Hamilton 28 December 1870 My dear Mr. McLean, Your letter of the 17 only reached me today. I forwarded an official report, immediately after the murder to the Commissioners office 3/4 You ask what is the feeling on the subject at Waikato? It is one of insecurity - A to protect the Frontier would allay it, and the Government would be carrying out its Defence Policy. The proposed plan of an Auhati would I think bring the Natives to their bearings, it probably would excite and rouse them to hostilities, but with a well guarded frontier, and strict vigilance on the part of the Constabulary, who would have to bear the brunt, they would not be very desirous of crossing our lines as by so doing they would be taken in rear. I certainly am no more an advocate for war than yourself, but of course the murderers should be brought to justice, but might not the plans proposed induce them in time to give them up. There is nothing I feel certain would do more to restore confidence in the minds of the people, it is not expensive. The roads Block houses and all being carried out by the Armed Constabulary. Of course there may be objections to this scheme, but I have thoroughly considered it in all its bearings, and am inclined to think it would be more efficacious than invading the King country. That would be the last recourse - It is impossible for me to get any reliable information. Tho no doubt the Natives are in a very unsettled state. I have forwarded copy of a letter written to the Rev. C. Schanckenberg. We ought to be prepared, I have forwarded thro Harington a letter relative to the Militia, as that force at present is scarcely of any use - I am no alarmist hut my Motto is in this instance "Ready aye ready" Believe me Sincerely yours William C. Lyon Honble. D. McLean