Letter from H. Halse, Taranaki to Donald McLean, dated 2nd. January 1856. General Report of Native Proceedings. New Plymouth January 2nd. 1856. My dear Sir, The native question, though still unsettled, offers nothing for remark. There is a native rumour that land North of Waitara has been sold by Ngatimutunga. Some of our natives are very curious upon this subject; and a Meeting, I hear, took place, at Tapuae, but nothing important transpired. It would appear that there is something in this report, but to what extent, I have not yet ascertained. Chilman's case against Kawau natives, wisely settled by Major Nugent, was one that might have seriously involved the General Government. (?) the claim to compensation equitably, the natives were clearly entitled to consideration; but the Superintendent to stand upon strict law of his own making, and ingeniously recommended the complainants to apply to the Resident Magistrate, whose duty it would have been to decide, in accordance with the Provincial Ordinance. Nearly a week elapsed before the natives committed themselves, by seizing the cattle, for security; and although every person must condemn this Maori system, yet it appears to me that we provoked them by refusing a just claim. It is all very well for a local Government to pass laws for Europeans, and Heaven knows we have had enough of them, but to attempt to force them down the throats of semi-savages, will do; and I have no hesitation in saying that unless the General Government cripples existing powers in that particular, we shall not be long at peace with the natives. The same natives were treated with glaring injustice in a late cattle trespass on their Town Reserve, called Pukenui; and I was not in a position to assist them, or I would have paid the damage myself. With regard to Waitana's claim to a portion of Chilman's land adjoining Purakau, I have already sent you particulars, and only only write now in consequence of Chilman pressing for an answer. Many of our settlers are clearing out for Whanganui and Whaingaroa, in consequence of the difficulty in getting land, and what little we have held, by the local Government. Henere (Puni) is very obstinate, and I am at a loss to know how to act with him. I made him the offer you proposed, but he would not listen to it. Faithfully yours (Signed) H. Halse. To:- Donald McLean Esq.