158 New Kent Road London S.E. April 1st 1872 My dear Sir, We have cause for much anxiety about the welfare of our only son, Samuel Frederick Mayhew, Armed Constably. - Waihi, N.Zd. The History of his case is just this - He left London for Melbourne Sep.1869 and arrived there in Decr.following - He left for Wellington about Feb.'70 where he stayed with , until he entered the A.C. when he was sent to Waihi, and from whence we have had letters, by every mail until this last (March - Apl.) We understood him to be in the Cavalry - but Photographs etc. seem to say rather - the Infantry - He took an active part in the Camp theatricals of last winter, and his letters describe him as being on with his officers, and not uncontent with Military life - In letters, dated 'Carlyle, Nov.23rd 71' with satisfaction he tells of his transfer to the Cavalry, and his detail to attend on the Govr. on his visit to Wanguani - He asks our influence for his promotion with Meosrs.Curtis - whose brother is a friend of our own. Under date Decr.21 he tells us of the Governor's visit and his attendance, and then adds, his visit to W. and his transfer had been so expensive as to swallow up all his money - that on the 31st of Decr. '71 the Cavalry would be broken up, and he, cast forth with nothing, save a good character - that he should not be able to write, for he should get work in some out of the way place, nor should he apply to friends in N.Z. nor were we to institute enquiries or tell either family or friends of the circumstances - All this looks bad - and the first part incredible - why the 'out of the way' and 'silence' - We are very anxious and very distressed - and shall be deeply grateful for authentic intelligence - we fear something is wrong - nor have we right to hear from our son, anything but what is cheering - nothing has been spared by wh. his welfare, in all respects, might be promoted - His mother and sisters will return sincerest thanks to any unknown friend who can lighten the darkness. I am, My dear Sir, Faithfully yours, Saml.M.Mayhew. Vicar St.Paul Bermondsey London