True copy GB Alexandra, Nov. 9th/70 My dear Friend. Your note I received last night, I just rode down. I am happy to hear that you are all well as it leaves us all at present. You may be surprised at my short note last mail, but the fact was that, I kept the horse on the rope all day I thought I should ride down myself, but the fact was, I had a complaint upon me that disabled me from sitting on the horse - a severe attack of Piles - so I had to send Henry after all. We are still quiet in our parts, but I must make this remark, there seems to be a great deal of dis-content at present among the Natives - Tawhiao seems to be getting unpopular amongst all the Southern Natives - The Kooti's service and influence seems to be gaining ground. We hear that Taranaki has thrown off all allegiance from Waikato. One cause is about that money. We have had no late arrivals of late, but I hear yesterday that some of the Southern people are on their way. Tawhiao was at my place a few days ago & a letter was brought by a messenger to hasten him back again, that the Southern people were close by, & just as I was getting on my horse yesterday two Boys came in and told me that Manuhiri was at Hangatiki on his road to see me so I drop you these few lines & I hasten back to meet him. I am glad to hear that that *imposter of a woman has got her deserts - I think if a few more of them were treated the same - such as Hariata Poti & others - it would do them some good. We are in a fearful state up here for want of rain, all the Country is dried up - I can't make out from what source the Natives are getting their spirits from, for this last two weeks, a great quantity has been about - I have made enquiries here & they all tell me that it was not got from this place, something strange - My kind regards to yourself & Teui & all & I trust this will find you all well, and I hope you will excuse this hasty scrall - the Mail will soon close. Peata's respects to all - I will write more particulars next mail. * Alluding to a Tohunga - the wife of a European named Shera. I remain & c (sd) Louis Hetit