attention. We are at present surrounded in every direction by evidences of the , I still hold to my opinion that they will not venture actually to attack the Wairoa - they may visit the coast again fall upon Poverty Bay, or by lurking about, cut up any stragglers from here or on the road. I imagine they are short of powder altho they possessed any amount during their attack on ''Mohaka'' They acquired arms but not ammunition there. Again the destruction of ''Te Warus'' advanced Post at ''Te Kiwi'' has disconcerted them, I look upon the slaying of 'Hori Te Rangi' as of much importance and if of no other value our expedition proved to them that we could not be taken by surprise. Should they attack us, they will infallably destroy the settlement as the Redoubt is of not the slightest protection to it. The 'Tariroa' settlers some of whom have ventured home on the dismissal of the Militia and Volunteers and the assurance given them by the Col. at parting that ''they would be safe, perfectly safe'' are the men who will suffer. I enclose two letters brought me today for transmission to you. there is great want of unity of feeling amongst the natives who are not unnaturally perhaps in a much unsettled and excited state. I have done all in my power, but I have no support, and begin to feel a weariness of constantly struggling against the indifference and incapacity of those I am forced to look to for assistance. I am unwilling without your consent first obtained to resign the temporary employment I have had, and I ask