Gwavas 23rd. March 1869. Dear McLean, I deplore as every man not thoroughly interested must the infatuation the Government have shewn in depriving the Country and Province of your invaluable and unpaid services. To yourself it must he a relief indeed. For good to the Province you will still have considerable power with the Natives however they may try to thwart you I could not have believed that even the present disgraceful Ministry would have been so thoroughly wanting in courtesy towards you as to have taken away your appointment without previously making you aware of the fact. I see a meeting advertised to be held at Waipukerau on Thursday which I much fear I shall not be able to attend owing to a very bad accident which happened to Mrs. Carlyon on Sunday. She went up to a half tamed pony and caught hold of the rope the beast bit two of her fingers dragging out the nail of one and then trampled on her and kicked her if she is well enough I shall most certainly go to the meeting. My brother will attend. I really am sorry that Green should lose his appointment. Many thanks for your kind promises in Horricks case as well as for your exertions in Postal Affairs. I need not say that Mrs. C's illness will prevent my going to Napier as soon as I Intended. Belive me ever very sincerely yours, Gwavas Carlyon.