Monday 26th Dec. 1868 My dear McLean, I expected to see the St. Kilda in the morning. We are of course anxious to see what you and Richmond will do with your large native force - If an aggressive movement could be successfully made this Incubus of our Province might be moved - If not - some terms must be arrived at - or the standing menace will cause ruin and disaster to us - We cannot afford to maintain an armed attitude for any length of time without bringing ruin as sure as if the ex prisoners had sacked Wairoa. I should think Kooti has given up the idea of attacking Wairoa for a time. Yours always Joseph Rhodes