My dear Carlyon, I am in receipt of yours of the 9th and 12th inst. with the enclosures. I do not see a word to alter in your letter to the Govt. except perhaps that justice might be substituted for legality but it comes almost to the same thing and is quite unimportant. Haultain is back from Auckland he landed at Whanganui and will be in Wellington by this time. I have perused the letter to the commanding officer here which appears to me concise and clear it requires no alteration or addition, it asks for information which the Govt. is bound to give. I am satisfied that the Govt. found that you were too able and independent for them and true to their usual practise they resort to a mean and discreditable course to deprive me of your assistance and the district of the beneficial reforms that were taking place under your command. I have had as you know a great deal to put up with but I felt bound to sacrifice personal feelings and considerations for our common interest. Since you mentioned that Inglis and Lambert were recommended by you, I do not think Lambert had to do with Greens appointment but I feel certain that H.Russell had. I am determined to ferret out the whole matter as it has annoyed me more than it has you. The Duke of Edinburgh will only come to places where he is invited I hardly think we can in these depressed times express a desire to see him here. I will gladly avail of your kindinvitation whenever I can spare time to go up to the country. I do not know when that may be. I remain, My dear Carlyon, Yours sincerely, Donald McLean Feb. 18,69