Auckland 19 Mar /61 My Dear Sir, As some letters, Private, which may be important to you and as the ''Fawn'' is likely to return to New Plymouth I think it better to forward them to you at once. The Governor stopped my going to Whangarei until you return which I hope will be soon as I doubt whether you will be able to do much at present with the natives - Dont throw yourself away, there is no honor nor glory in being shot by an asassin from behind a furze hedge. Every one here feels the loss of Mr Naughton who was a cool headed and brave fellow - There is a story about a shell bursting and killing any number of Natives but I am an unbeliever in reports unless authenticated. There is a letter from Halse and one from Searancke No news of consequence Searancke says that Katipa is at his last gasp Tamati Ngapora and Ihaka have returned from Ngaruawahia, not improved in their loyalty to the Queen. Tooti is said by Natives who told Searancke that he is to head a large party for Taranaki as soon as the Waipa people have disposed of their market produce at Waiuku. Their ammunition is to come from Tauranga. I give you all this for what it is worth - Col.Warre made a speech to the A.Volunteers this morning which is not considered oratorical but very practical and he is thought by many here to be the man for Galway. Hoping soon to hear from you and wishing that you will be able to induce the wrong headed people to give up their contest, having due regard for ourselves, I am, etc. J.Rogan