Government House, New Zealand 23 June 1873 My dear Mr. McLean, I have read with much interest the Reports of Officers in Native Districts of which you have been so good as to send me an early copy. As you will be absent when the next mail leaves for England, I should like to be enabled to send to the Secretary of State a short statement of the actual state of affairs with reference to the late murder of Sullivan and the consequent proceedings. My object is only to inform him and I do not wish to put on record a description of contingencies which may not occur and the expectation of which if published hereafter may prove embarassing. If therefore you express yourself without reserve you may rely on its being treated confidentially except as regards actual facts. Of these the telegrams which I have seen give pretty full information. How long do you expect to be absent? I propose to drive to Lowry Bay today unless something should occur to prevent me: but I shall be at home till 12, and tomorrow Believe me yours sincerely, James Fergusson I have a copy of your memo: to the O.H.G. of the 4th June