Wellington 14th. September 1870. Sir, I have the honour to request that you will do the Government the favour to enquire into an allegation made by Mr. F.E. Hamlin when in charge of the Wairoa Public Contingent at Waikare-Moana, to the effect that Capt. Preece, in charge of a Contingent of the Arawa tribe in the Bay of Plenty country, had caused representations to be made to the Urewera tribe with a view to prevent their giving in their submission to him (Mr. Hamlin.) I enclose an extract from Mr. Hamlin's report containing the allegations in question, as well as copies of letters from Captains Preece and Mair, requesting that an enquiry might be made. I have the honour to be, Sir, Your most obedient servant (Copy unsigned) To:- The Honble. Lt. Col. Russell, M.L.C. (see next page for extract referred to)