New Plymouth Dec.4, 56. (Extract) Sir, "Private Paneta, the only remaining Native Policeman, has been transferred to me by His Honor the Superintendent from the 1st. instant, but I have not entered into any arrangement for his pay owing to the impossibility of securing his, or the services of equally efficient Natives at less than Natives have been receiving as Policemen, The reasons I would respectfully submit against any reduction of pay are, 1st. The Native policemen are carefully selected for their influence, intelligence and good conduct and render me material service in arranging disputes and differences between the races. 2nd. Owing to the increase of drunkenness amongst the Natives, it is necessary that the Policemen perform night duty in the Town until the Public Houses are closed, for the purpose of removing any Natives under the influence of liquor. 3rd. As Constables it is desirable that they observe a uniform and neat appearance in their dress. 4th. The pay of the Provincial Constabulary is £7 monthly, with the use of a horse which considerably lightens their duties and lessens their personal expenses. 5th. The duties of Native policemen extend beyond the settled portions of New Plymouth and are of a much more important nature in this peculiarly circumstanced Province, surrounded as it is by a large and increasing native population, than the ordinary duties of the European constabulary. The natives are liable to be called upon at any hour to proceed in any direction and to any distance where their services are considered necessary. Should these reasons be considered sufficient by the Government I have the honor to request authority for engaging the natives Paneta and Karira (formerly of the Police) under the terms of your letter, at the monthly rate of £7 each., Paneta from the 1st. instant and Karira from the 1st. of January 1857." I have etc. (sd.) H. Halse. Assist. Nat. Secy. To:- W. ---(?) Esq., Under Secretary, Auckland