submit for the consideration of Government that the East Coast tribes should be induced to act at once against Te Kooti and Te Waru so as to prevent their gaining further accessions of strength and this appears more urgently necessary before Waikato throws in its aid; should this course be effectually carried out it would free the Government from anxiety for this side of the Island while if delayed a large force would be eventually required to meet the exigency and disasters would almost certainly ensue before it could be met. Ropata who is now here would take the field with Ngatiporou and if aided by a small European force, the growing difficulties at Opotiki and the East Coast might be checked before terminating in further calamities. If the course which I have suggested should meet with the approval of Ministers I shall be willing to afford any assistance I can in furtherance thereof. I have the Honour to be Sir, Your most obedient servt. (sigd.) Donald McLean.