. Poverty Bay December 11th. 1868. Sir, I have the honour to inform you that on the occasion of the last attack on the Hau Haus, I collected ammunition for Ropata's men, at Karete, but could not induce any of the Maoris to carry it to the front during the night. We started with it at daylight, but met Ropata and his men about two miles from the front, on their way back. Ropata's illness was the principal reason for their giving up the attempt to take the further side of the Enemy's pa. There was plenty of ammunition on the road up, at the time. It was within a few miles of us when started to return to Turanganui. I have the honour to be Sir, Your most obedient servant (Signed) J.W. Gascoigne. Sub. Ins. A.C. To:- Major Westrupp Commanding Poverty Bay.