Mokau 21st. January 1846 Sir, I have the honor to acquaint you that since my letter of the 10th. inst. I have had occasion to visit this place, in consequence of Taonui, the Chief having tapu'd the whole line of coast, thereby preventing any communication either North or South, between New Plymouth and Kawia, until payment was made to him for the curse alluded to in my letter of the above dates. This Tapu was so strictly enforced that Mr. Thatcher and a New Plymouth constable carrying the mail to Auckland, were returned by Waitara, one of the Mokau Chiefs, who met them half way to that place; he stating that their persistently going on might endanger them with the Mokau natives. I therefore resolved to accompany Mr. Thatcher, to see him forwarded on his journey, giving the Waitara natives notice of my intention; and allowing them until the following Monday, the 19th. inst., when I intended to proceed; to make the necessary payment to satisfy the insulted Chief; of which they immediately availed themselves, and at the time specified they accompanied us from Waitara, bringing with them money, guns and other articles, to be forwarded to Taonui; and I am glad to be able to inform you that we have met with no interruption, the Tapu being removed, and the road again open, with an understanding with the Chiefs (except Taonui) who lives at a considerable distance up the river, and who, therefore, I have not seen, - that Europeans are to pass hereafter unmolested. I have the honor to be etc. (unsigned copy.)