May 2, 73 My Dear McLean I have just got a letter from Webster from Auckland date 15th ultimo - he says he has a fair chance now to get clear of his business and asks me if he does to go in "Shoulder to Shoulder" on commerce and native affairs along with him he also tells me he has been talking with sundry northern members and feels himself sure we would have as much weight as I hinted the other night. it is a temptation but I am not quite far enough through with my work yet and also like him wd. have to make some private arrangements before taking up a new trade I shall however see him and see what we are likely to make of it. Webster wrote before the Waikato affair took place and so have not any news of what the northern natives may think though I can pretty well divine. I start by the Taranaki tomorrow. Yours sincerely F.E. Maning.