Saty. 5th. Sept. /57. My dear Sir, I was glad to receive a note from you this morning and to hear that you had arranged for a part of money for the purchase of land here. A large meeting was held at the Ninia pa this week at which were present Mahoetahi, Ikamoana and other natives. The occasion was Katatore's offer, which included the spot on which Rawiri was killed. Violent speeches were made, followed by a demonstration from the whole party. on the next day, about 200 when they traversed the boundaries of the land (included in Katatore's offer) they themselves desire to sell which is from Tarurutangi to Mangaraka --- they say they will not hear of Katatore selling this land. They are also jealous lest Katatore's offer is accepted before theirs of the Ikamoana. To offend such a body of men would never do; perhaps an easy way of avoiding this would be to make Ihaia a present, on the understanding that he destroys the Ikamoana pa and returns to Waitara. Such a course would probably satisfy Ihaia, and as to its effect on Katatore, he might be set right by asking him to hand over the Ikamoana. There is so much jealousy and pride mixed up in this Ikamoana question that £100 or £200 would be well appropriated in the endeavour to get rid of it. We should be pleased to see you give in person the final blow to the league, but this may not suit your arrangements. You have however a trusty Sub in Parris. I forget if I thanked you in my last letter for an increase of £50 to my salary which the Col. Treasurer communicated. If not, I now beg to do so. Faithfully yours, H. Halse. To:- McLean Esq. I am looking out for the return of the "Henry" in order that Katatore's offer may be finally arranged. I should not be surprised if the present ill-timed opposition should cause Katatore to return to his former tikanga pupuru. A great meeting will take place at Tapuae tomorrow, to witness the death of all the Kikakika's in and about that neighbourhood. H. H.