Taranaki, New Plymouth, December 14th. 1847 My dear Sir, Nothing has transpired at this settlement with reference to any contemplate movements by the disaffected tribes at Wanganui, against the Europeans; but as the letter herewith sent, appears to be from the Commanding Officer, who urges its being forwarded, it may contain such intelligence, - as probably justifies my facilitating its transmission, or that of any future despatches from Military outposts to Headquarters; especially if an order is received with them, and the mail is not ready to start. Dr. Wilson and family arrived here from Wanganui, overland; which place they left fourteen days ago. They do not report anything indicating a movement on the part of the rebels, but the Friendly natives accompanying them state that they threaten to attack our Putiki allies, when Pehi Turoa returns from an excursion to Taupo, where it is supposed he is endeavouring to obtain a considerable reinforcement. By Dr. Wilson's residing amongst us, we have got a very desirable acquisition to our limited society, and the settlers will be much benefited by his experience in matters connected with farming, to assist him and his family in getting up the Coast, I sent a Policeman and horse to meet him, feeling sure His Excellency would wish me to render any aid of that description that would lie in my power. All land negotiations are for the present suspended, awaiting His Excellency's further instructions, which we may expect will be accompanied by his own presence. Indeed, the people are now in daily expectation of seeing him. The "Ralph Barnel" arrived here from England, via Nelson, on Friday. Her latest dates are the 22nd, July, and I observe in the published correspondence relating to New Zealand, a despatch from Lord Grey to Governor Grey, 19th. June, from which I shall make an extract or two; as it may not have reached Auckland. Sir, "I enclose copies of a correspondence which has lately taken place relative to the affairs of the New Zealand Company, which will put you in possession of an arrangement which Her Majesty's Government have thought it advisable to enter into with that Association. I also transmit a Bill which will be proposed to Parliament, for the more effectually carrying this arrangement into execution. The Bill here referred to had passed through the Lords' Committee, and was to have been read a third time on the 22nd. July." (etc., as in foregoing letter) (Signed) Don. McLean. You will continue to retain in your own hands, the exclusive management of all negotiations with the natives, for the sale of their lands; but when any transactions of this sort are concluded in the Southern Province, the New Zealand Company will provide the means of payment from funds placed at their disposal; and have the disposal of lands co acquired. I have only to add that these arrangements are not to interfere with the operation of any laws which, in accordance with the intention you have expressed you have thought it advisable that the local legislature should pass for the purpose of enabling the