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English (ATL)

COPY. Alexandra

August 2nd. 1869.


To the Hon. Dr. Pollen.
Dear Sir,

According to your request, I write you a fe lines, and express my opinion relative to the state of Native affairs in this district.

The latest news is that Te Kooti, with 100 men, are building a pa at Whareata, about 7 miles from Tokangamutu, - for what purpose is not at present known. Rewi has joined him, and is said to be full of excitement.

Te Heu Heu Horonuku and people are with Te Kooti.

Te Kooti's cavalry consist of 40 armed Troopers, well armed and equipped with swords, revolvers, carbines, etc.

It is reported that Reihana, Te Whakahoehoe, Kati, Honi Wetere, and others, - in all about 400 men, - have gone to order Te Kooti away from the district, but I do not believe it at present.

In the first place, Waikatos invited Te Kooti into this district; and it is not very likely that they would order him away, unless he had committed himself in some way, which has not been proved to my satisfaction. They allowed him to build a pa near Tokangamutu. They supply him and his people with food, etc., and they give out to us that it is their wish that Te Kooti should leave the district. I cannot believe them. I think they are acting a double part. If they sincerely wished Te Kooti out of the district, they are strong enough to put him out; and if wished, to kill both him and his followers.

It is my impression that they neither wish to get him out of the district, nor desire that he should give the Government a chance of expelling him by force of arms. The fact is, they are not prepared yet to make an attack upon the Waikato settlements. They are awaiting the arrival of more arms and ammunition from Auckland, as was proved to be an open ''hari'' by those prisoners who were taken at Ngaruawahia last Sunday week. I was present when they were taken, and I cannot help saying that it was no fault of Andrew Barton's that they did not pass on to Tokangamutu with their loads. It was from conversation which I overheard that I came to that conclusion. I express to you my opinion, and I have good grounds for it; and knowing me as you do for so many years; and understanding as you do, my connection with the native tribes of this district and Kawhia, you will forgive me if I overstep the mark, by saying anything to you that may be construed into a charge against anyone. I have a large family, and a stake in this district; and I consider it my duty to the Government, and to my own fellowsettlers in my adopted country, to speak out and tell the truth, - which I intend doing.

I shall be glad to receive a line from you, - either finding fault with thie letter, or otherwise; and if I have done, or said, anything wrong, I shall make reparation.

I remain dear Sir,
Your obedient servant (Signed)
Samuel Morgan.
P.S. Any instructions from you I will faithfully fulfil. (Signed)
S. M.