Copy Wairoa Decr. 22nd. 1868. Edward L. Freen. Secy. to G.G. Agent. In compliance with a telegram from the Honble, the Defence Minister I embarked Henare Tomoana with 136 of Karaitiana's Natives to assist you in a movement against the Hauhaus, Renata, Hapuku and Tariha also proffered their services with about 200 men and I brought them over in the Storm Bird today. Those natives together with Ihaka and the Wairoa Natives ought to be able to inflict a heavy blow on the enemy more especially if he is scattered about in different sections. I would therefore suggest that the Natives should be allowed to follow up the Enemy without delay and as the Hawkes Bay tribes can only be absent a short time from their wheat crops being almost ready for harvesting the sooner they take the field the better. I will acquaint the Honble. Mr. Richmond with this movement whenever I get to Napier. It will be necessary to keep the natives supplied with provisions during the expedition. Capt. Deighton would be an excellent person to accompany the expedition and I have no doubt he will do so. Mr. Preece should also go if you can spare him. (Sgd.) Donald McLean.