to one or two points in your last 2 letters. I see you have sanctioned the Wairoa natives moving against Te Waru and you have done right without any question. I daresay Ministers will check them if they can. About going to meet the Duke of Edinburgh I don't see how you can leave this with things in their present condition. A few days now must determine how we stand. If Te Kooti is not smashed by the Arawas we shall have him on our hands. Much depends on what is done just now as to the possibility of your getting away. It strikes me also that your position will be rather an awkward one as the Prince will be in the hands of Ministers whilst here. If you meet him, you meet him in their hands - it appears to me the position would be full of difficulties. Your Napier meeting I see was expected to be addressed by the Opposition. I wish I had gone down to have replied to them. With you not at the Meeting there is scarcely any-one able to deal a good