Gwavas 2nd. March 1869. Dear McLean, Lamberts insolence in issuing an order placing Major Green under the command of a Captain is according to my experience unparallelled and must arise from the dislike he has of him he has I believe no power to do it. The Militia being called out on Actual Service is under Senior Officer not only during drill but at all times. I suppose Lambert wants a Mounted Field Officer under him on parade and at no other time, but I am too angry to write or think calmly on the subject I have suggested to Green that if you ask Governor to proclaim Militia Act of 1865 it will do away with some of Lamberts powers. Of course you are aware that Militia are now under Act of 1858. Under 1865 Act I think district cannot extend above 15 miles in any direction from centre. If I am right (and I have not time to refer to act) another centre should be at Te Aute I suppose and another about Wallingford but if you look over that clause of the Act and think it worth while I will go down to talk it over with you or work it up here. But I suppose you are sick of Militiarism I certainly am. The loss of the Ida Ziegler will I fear damage the reputation of Napier irretrievably. I hope your wool was well insured I don't know whether or not I had any on board. My brother tells me he has applied to you for license to Winsor at Waipawa. His Lordship had the impudence at first to object but being interested in Opposition house at Waipukerau I suspect he lays himself open to heavy fine in having anything to do with the matter. Winsor will I am told give up a comfortable house to travellers in addition to present hotel and there is not another place in Waipawa where a bed can be got. If the Duke of Edinurgh comes I shall be happy to lend you my trap and ponies as well as anything else you may require that I have. Yours ever very sincerely, Gwavas Carlyon.