Wellington 12 Jan. 71. My dear Sir, I write simply to say that there is nothing of importance to write about. Kemp returned here by coach on Tuesday evening, came to the Native office yesterday morning, and leaves for Auckland by the "Rangatira" at noon this day. He seems to have managed the Rangitikei work very well. I understand him to say that all the boundaries are settled, and if Mr. Carkeek, surveyor, is left alone, everything connected with that trouble-some purchase (if purchase it can be called) by the Supt. of this province, will be satisfactorily set at rest. I hear that Kemp has found it necessary to extend some of the boundaries, and assume that in so acting, he has acted under your instructions The Superintendent as a matter of course will not like this, but when he is told that if the question had been suffered to remain a few months longer it is more that probable that the natives would have repudiated the whole transaction, I think he will not only be reconciled to the action taken, but will thank you on behalf of the Province for having done what he himself could not have done. I enclose by direction of Hon. Mr. Sewell a slip from this days+' issue of the "Independent". No communication on the subject has been received in Native Office. In haste, Faithfully yours, H. Halse. To: D. McLean Esq.