''Napier'' May 30 - 70 Dear Sir, I have for some time past had the intention of writing to you, but fancying that an opportunity might occur for seeing you in Napier has deterred me from doing so - Since you were last here a good many changes have taken place - A large portion of the Native Business of the Province has so far as private matters go passed into my hands - not without my experiencing some difficulties and some unpleasantness in connection therewith however, and doubtless in a great measure owing to there being no one else available. No inconsiderable portion of the Native Lands have passed and are yet passing into the hands of the Europeans and it is chiefly on this subject that I am desirous of making a few remarks. His Lordship the Bishop of Waiapu with whom I had some conversation on the matter thinks with me I beleive that nothing that we can do will induce the Natives to alter their reckless and extravagant mode of life - that to follow it they will voluntarily strip themselves of the major