Tokanu 25th. December 1869 My dear Sir, I have delayed writing till I could communicate something reliable. I have been, for some time, trying to get the details from Petera, who came some short while ago. He now tells me that when he left, Te Kooti with 50 of his men, were at Makokomike; that Kereopa was with the Whakaraus at Taumarunui. Te Waru was with Ngatimaniapoto at Papawaka. He had received a letter From Te Kooti, asking him to rejoin him; and he, Potera, thought he would. To Waru was planting potatoes. The Ngatimaniapoto were up the Ongarue river. Taumarunui is in the King Country Ngahanga at Topiai's places, or one of his places. I enclose a rough sketch of the country from Moerangi, and the belt of bush, parallel with it. I think it pretty correct. The cuter places, I have been to; Tuhua part is from information from natives who know the country well. You will see by it that Papawaka and Petania are the junction of all the roads leading to Waikato or West side of Teupo. I should recommond a party, 200 strong, starting from here with 6 rations and a few packhorses for Tuhua - that is Petania or Papawaka. It is in the King Country. But Petera tells me that they would not object, there is food there. Making expeditions to Moerangi do not in any way prevent the enemy escaping; but you will see that one to Papawaka will; as it is the Junction of all the roads. I have given this information to Col. McDonnell. The boats are getting on very slowly, owing to rain. The men have been unable to saw. I have heard that the Ureworas have dived and got up the boats that Col. Herrick sunk. I cannot vouch for the truth. It is only report. My natives complain that they are so long without being paid. I try to keep them in good temper about it. Believe me to remain Yours truly (Signed) George Preece.