Auckland August 21st. 1869. My dear McLean, There is nothing new from Waikato since I last wrote, except Searancke's telegram, copy of which I sent to Napier, to be sent to you by the wire. I enclose notes on the subject from Morgan, and from Moule. The Wairoa Volunteers are being withdrawn from Waikato, and the local Militia have been struck off pay; so that the charges there, or Waikato, now will be only for the regular force of Armed Constabulary, and 40 or 50 men of the Thames Volunteers. They, (the latter) will be kept only a little time longer. I thought it most prudent to make the reduction gradually, and without demonstration. I have called out the Militia in Auckland district for training and exercise. I have done nothing about the Thames Militia just yet; and unless you particularly desire it, shall not be in a hurry to do so. There is a very respectable force there already; and there is, besides, I am sorry to say, a force of rowdies not over loyal in whose hands I should not care much to place arms. Moreover, the supply of arms here, just now, is very small, not more than 1300 stand in store. I am, yours very truly (Signed) Daniel Pollen.