Auckland 26 Nov. 1860. My dear General, I regret exceedingly that a necessity should have arisen a such a critical time to deprive you of some of your effective force, but I am assured they will be sent back immediately after reinforcements arrive, or whenever it is ascertained that the Natives have abandonned the idea of attacking Auckland which they still threaten to do. I am astonished that the Governor did not acknowledge the receipt of your despatches in reference to the Kaihihi expendition which was an exceedingly skilful and well conducted operation, indeed