seen some days after. Of this the Ministry are also aware. I trust that in making these communications to you privately, I am not in any way committing myself. The "Iris" has just arrived with His Excey. and suite. Nothing has yet transpired relative to the meetings with the Natives. As Hone Ropiha accompanied them we shall doubtless hear every particular. You will ere this have heard of the decease of His Honor the Chief Justice. The new Judge is now on his way from England in the "Emeu" with Dr. Sinclair and Mr. Outhwaite. Everything progresses steadily in the office; Mr. Friend however has been very little with us. He is said to have accompanied Mr. Hay. I remain, my dear Sir, Most respectfully yours, William B. Baker,