Clyde December 6th. 1868 11 p.m. Sunday. Dear Sir, I am sorry to say that several suspicious characters have been prowling about in the neighbourhood of the settlement, by Mr. Githin, who reported the matter to me late this evening. I have long known that this sort of thing was going on, and have done what I could, necessary to meet the difficulty. I proposed to Major Lambert that a party be sent out to scour the hills towards Mangapoiki Gorge, where I know that some of Tuatini's followers are lurking. I believe this will be done. A notice will be issued to-morrow, warning all natives against leaving the settlements, without first intimating their desire to do so. This I also consider necessary. I would be glad to learn how far I shall be justified in moving, in any of these cases. I would, in any case, whatever powers might be granted me, do it with the utmost prudence. At the same time, I think I ought to possess the requisite power, if needed. The rest will return to this settlement to-morrew of the Mohaka people, Major Lambert retaining 25. I propose enrolling 15 from here, to make the number up to 40. The men met with were armed; and John Gemmel, Jock, who knows every native in the town, says the men are strangers. I am. etc., (Signed) Geor Worgan.