Letter from W. Halse to D. McLean, dated 9th. July 1849. Taranaki 9th. July 1849. My dear McLean, I am sorry to tell you that Mr. MacShane died on Saturday afternoon, between 12 and 1. It is a great loss to our settlement. The funeral will take place at eleven this morning. There is nothing stirring here; yet for all that I would, if time permitted, send you a long letter. As it is, until next post, I have only to say we shall be very glad to see you here; and the sooner the better. There is a great outcry for land; and I believe you can get it for us. Very little of the 7,000 acres awarded as Compensation will be taken in the Blocks now purchased; as nearly all the fern is appropriated, and the people wish the timber. Captain King has been meddling with your Force, by reducing it in a very strange way; namely lowering Johnson to a Private, and discharging Rundle and St. George; when C. Aubrey stood first in the list for dismissal, having applied for it on his return from Auckland. Now everyone knows that Rundle was in a wholesome state of discipline; while Aubrey, with others, was the reverse, and above his work. I wish, if only to stay this meddling with your office, you would come back. Miniapa is another worthy. During Watt's absence, he was always in his house, against the orders of Good, who had charge, - after a native married woman; and passed one night there in a state of intoxication. When in the receipt of 25/- per week, he was much addicted to treating married and single native women with rum, etc., Now he is a gentleman at large; and in pocket, likewise, caparisoned in blue trousers with the red cord, a light shooting-coat, highly scented with Sydney Eau-de-cologne, and armed with a Maori -------(?) which shows outside his pocket. I received your letter, but have no time to answer it. I remain Yours sincerely (Signed) W. Halse. To:- Donald McLean Esq.