28 January 1858 My dear Sir No collision has yet taken place between the contending natives, and it seems likely that Ihaia will be permitted to fall back upon the Matarikoriko pa, on the south banks of Waitara near Huirangi. Whether Ihaia will take advantage of the indulgence I have not yet been enabled to ascertain. The Hauhe Tama natives seem determined to cut off Ihaia's supplies from the Town, and question close by Europeans who are supposed to be friendly to him, when on their way to the Ikamoana pa --- five bags of flour were seized by them on Monday last, and Mr. Parris and myself failed to induce them to give it up. They had previously ascertained that the flour had been purchased by Ihaia, which on enquiry proved to be correct, and regarded it as a lawful prize. Tamati te Ito received a letter yesterday from Ngatiruanui stating that, that tribe had no intention to come here on account of Katatore having decided on selling land. So far, so well. The Bell Block settlers are getting up a Memorial relative to the proceedings of the natives, a copy of which I will endeavour to forward to you. Faithfully yours H. Halse To:- McLean Esq.