My dear Mr. Fox, I am much obliged for the letter you have written to Major Whitmore. Affairs are in such a ticklish state that the least indiscretion at the present time would soon involve us in hostilities. I am in hopes that the troops for this place may check Rangihiroas and the Uriwera from attacking outsettlers. I have not seen many of the Natives since I arrived yesterday those I have seen assure me that it will require great caution and forbearance to avert an outbreak and the friendly Natives seem pleased that more troops are coming. I trust your mission to Wanganui may be successful and that Pehi and the people of Putiki may have influence enough to prevent any serious outbreak in that quarter. I remain Yours very truly, Donald McLean. May 26, 1864.