Hamilton 26th Septr/69 My dear McLean, I have this day heard that a Messenger from Tamati with invitations to Ngapuhi to attend a meeting at Te Kuiti (Tokangamutu) passed thro Alexandra yesterday, I have not as yet heard the particulars of the proposed meeting, but will no doubt soon, the meeting is to take place in November and I hear indistinct rumours that Te Makarini is to be invited to attend, at least the idea has been mentioned I believe that a Meeting between these two tribes will lead to good result. The Kings party are still fearful of another visit from Te Kooti in fact he has now no place to fall back with any safety and even the Waikatos themselves are now trying to organize a party to attack him and sent a messenger to invite the Kupapas to join them in attacking that scoundrel, the matters was mentioned to me but I did not think it advisable to recommend them to do so. Tawhiao was at Orahiri yesterday on his way from Kawhia to Te Kuiti to attend a meeting there (amongst themselves) respecting Te Kooti's movements and intentions, I am sorry to say that Tawhiao has given way of late very much to the use of alcoholic drinks in fact is very often drunk. L. Hettit is I hear coming down tomorrow to Alexandra tomorrow on his way to Auckland. I will see him if possible at Ngaruawahia on Tuesday and ascertain any farther news and communicate with you at once, the I hardly know where this will find you. And I am yours very faithfully, William N. Searancke I strongly recommend you to bring a Saddle Horse up with you from the South as there is not a good or sound one this Province, and tho I have half a dozen have not at present one to ride and am sending down by next mail to Buller at Whanganui to buy me a couple (i. e.) if the Govt, think it proper to refund me the Amount I am out of pocket. I hope you will let me know by telegraph of your arrival in Auckland. W. A. S. 28th. By the papers to hand today I see that you are daily expected in Auckland so direct this to you there. I have seen L. Hettit today and told him to call upon you in Auckland The Invitation from Tamati to Ngapuhi is sent to the Kemara of Mahurangi.