A.—No. 21.

I cannot conclude without informing the Government how well the officers and men did their work ; each day's march was over twenty-five miles, and the men had to carry extra ammunition and their great-coats, through heavy roads ; only one man got foot-sore, and they have gone to their several posts as fit for the road as when they started. I would also beg to bring to the notice of the Government the conduct of the Native Contingent, and trust that some allowance for their services will be sanctioned, if possible. Katene, who once fought determinedly against us at Pungarehu, but is now on pay as a guide in No. 1 Company V.M., proved a most useful man, and as a scout could not be excelled, and I trust the Government will recognize his services. I have, &c, Tiros. McDonnell, Lieut.-Colonel, Commanding Colonial Forces, Patea District. Captain Holt, Under Secretary, Wellington.

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LETTER EROM LIEUT.-COLONEL McDONNELL.