Westoe, Marton 9. 5. 73 My Dear McLean, Thanks for your tele. about the Waikato affair. It is unfortunate but if you settle it satisfactorily it will strengthen us rather than otherwise, by obliging the King party to shew their colors on one side or other. In the same point of view I think the assaut on Mackay very beneficial. It will create a split between Rewi and the section who were parties to it. I was applied to in Wanganui a few days ago by Sergt. Austin who asked full two years ago for a Colonial Cross and was he says as good as promised it when he saw you in Auckld. I beleive he quites deserves it. His services extended over five years, and he was over and over again in peril of his life. Of course you know better than I do all about him. Kemp Topia and Col. McDonell all certify to his having earned it. I remember reading his journals at the time and thinking he had done good service. Be so kind as let me hear from you if anything transpires about the Waikato affair. I am very glad you have got Pollen to join you. He is quite a match for Waterhouse and Sewell and has the good will of the Leg. Council. I had a long note from Bowen by last mail. He seems to like Victoria but sorry to leave N. Zeald. Yours very faithfully, William Fox