Onehunga. May 28th. 1872. My dear Mr. McLean. Mr. Melsop, R.M. is dead! Another Resident Magistrate in his place must be appointed. If my husband should apply, will you kindly consider his application? I need not tell you how grieved every one was when he resigned that office about 18 months ago. He is so much beloved by every one. The Justices in Otahuhu, all in Onehunga wish him to apply to be reinstated. Mr. Brookfield, the Crown Solicitor, even came and asked him to apply for it; indeed that gentleman promised to see Dr. Pallem on the subject. You may hear from many how much it is necessary to have a Magistrate My husband has been Chairman always for the Petty Sessions. Indeed, over and over again, has done Mr. Melsop's work for him. Capt. Symonds has a great repunance to apply, from feelings of delicacy; but still he would be only too glad to be employed again by Government; as he has a grown-up family, and finds it impossible to live on his Pension (£200). You are an old tried friend; and I by writing myself, this private note. Still I must explain that my husband could not undertake to go to Papakura, or Waikato, etc. He could only manage as he did before, Howick, Otahuhu, and Onehunga. Another thing I know you will excuse my mentioning. We keep no conveyance; my husband cannot ride. It always cost him per annum to hire traps. Well, it is better to remain on his pension, and be his own master, unless the pay of R.M. would be high. Onehunga will soon, when the railroad is finished, be as important as Auckland; and could perhaps afford a well-paid Magistrate. I do trust, my dear Mr. McLean, you will not be offended with me. I write as I would to you. Please write me one line in answer to tell me whether you are displeased. Love for my husband and children incite me to do almost anything! Yours sincerely, (Signed) Alithea S. Symonds.