Copy of Telegram to Honble. Coll. Haultain. Napier 18th. Decr. 1868. 28 Natives have been taken Prisoners by a party of friendly Natives who were sent out by Major Lambert with Mr. Worgan, Major Lambert asks authority to start an expedition in rear of the Enemy and proposes to move with 150 Natives and 50 Europeans leaving Wairoa comparatively safe by placing Militia and Volunteers on actual service, I wrote to Richmond some days ago about a move being made from the Wairoa and I can send 200 Natives from here, the Enemy by Native letter received is at Westrupps old place Hawke Nest, I think you know it, it is old forest Rangers Camp at Poverty Bay I should like much if Lambert would remain at Wairoa and send the Native Expedition with men who know the country and the Natives, Burton Surveyor and Worgan would work well with the Natives. It is several days since we heard from Poverty Bay. I consider proposed movement by Lambert should be taken at once to be of any good, I can send Natives from here in Star of South expected today, what do you wish to do with Prisoners. Sigd. Donald McLean.