Crossdeep Tarikenharu 4th. Feb. 1872. My dear McLean, Mr. Richards, who will present this, and whose family I have long had the pleasure of knowing, has recently left our Army, with the object of seeking employment in the New Zealand Forces. As I trust - in the interest of the Colony - that when he arrives there, he may find you still holding with a firm hand, the helm of its affairs, in the Department of Defence; and as I learn that he has highly creditable testimonials from his late Commanding Officer, and from others, I venture to solicit your good wishes on his behalf, and hope that, should opportunity offer, you will do me the favour to give him a helping hand towards the attainment of his desire. Mrs. Elliot desires to be very kindly remembered to you, and to Mrs. Algernon Tollemache, when you see her. Believe me ever Yours very sincerely (Signed) George Elliot.