Wanganui 16th. May 1859. My dear Sir, Our korero lasted more than an hour after you left when old Mawai (who I find thinks a great deal of His Excellency's visit to the Hospital) gathered up the bags of gold, held them up for all assembled to witness, walked towards Aropeta of Kaiwi, and placed them at his feet. Thus terminated this important negotiation and simullaneously I fancied I heard the death knell of Taiporahenui. You will be glad to hear that Natives occasionally speak of their intention to follow up the tikanga tuke whenua, and as they appear to be rather taken up with the ''new broom'', I intend to take advantage of the feeling in the hope that I may be enabled to assist in promoting the prospects or interests of this district. As you desired, I have this day posted original receipts, with other papers properly belonging to you -- also copies of these receipts with a certificate about the £100 (paid to Ninia natives when in trouble) to your accountant in Auckland - I have likewise written to Parris, and to Mr. Williamson. I have deposited with the Landlord here, a packet of native letters mostly on local matters, and a few envelopes, the postage for which I have paid -- as the charge had been sent on, you must avoid paying twice. I leave for Waitotara this evening to arrange about the inland boundary of the Block -- when that is accomplished I shall set sail for New Plymouth, you are not therefore likely to hear from me again until I arrive there. Hoping the Governor and yourself reached Wellington all right, I remain My dear Sir, Faithfully yours, H. Halse.