Turanganui December 6th. 1868. My dear McLean, I have done everything to further the expidition, but with Whitmore, the more one tries to do good, the greater blame he gets. All our Forces have returned from the front and Robert (Tuparoa) says it is no use going again on that road -- so suppose the base will be shifted to the Wairoa. I wished Col. Whitmore as you know to go that way with his force, but I suppose he thought he could do more good by following on the road already used here. I explained my views to Richmond and Whitmore to the effect the enemy was retreating, but taking every advantage of position on the road to prevent our force pressing them into a rout -- every few miles they throw up rifle pits and leave a hundred or so of their braves to defend the pass. Robert after being deserted by the Napier Maories pressed on and engaged the enemy, but Hotine not so bravd turned with his followers -- Robert by the way is suffering much from inflamation of the Chest and is the great cause I believe of his returning. Colonel Whitmore has tried to get them on the war trail again, but without effect. My advice of course is not asked for, and all sorts of powers taken out of my hands. With almost every one I can get on with but with this conquering Colonel I profess my inability. Captain Tauners Troop have rendered good service by taking up provisions and ammunition at a time when it was required and all through the men have been most obliging and cheerful in performing their fatiguing duties -- Karamia has just died. His body will be put on board the steamer for Napier. My plan would be now to rest the forces for a short time -- a day or two -- organize an expidition from the Wairoa towards puketapu, and I think we should be successful in cutting off the retreat even now of a great many of them, burdened as they are with the wounded. Col. Whitmore I think was afraid he would not be in time by taking the line I proposed and Richmond agreed to. I am much afraid from what has fallen than Col. Whitmore will try and take every available man (with the exception of the Militia and Volunteers) away with him. This would be exceedingly bad policy, for if this district is not occupied with a Military force it is evident to me the Natives who have fought our battles will claim it, which would of course lead to new difficulties. I shall press this view on Mr. Richmond very strongly. With very kind regards, Beleive me Yours ever sincerely, Chas. Westrup. Whitmore says Gascoigne and I have to thank him for our Commissions.