14 September 1874 Glenorchy Dear friend I have received the Blue books which are very interesting to me and I peruse them with much interest. Donald sent me some also relating to his department and they are also very interesting. Mr Vogel's speech was a very able one about the mail service. I am happy to say my broakin bones are again nearly well and I am able to go about. I hope you and dear Kate will pay us a visit when the weather is better. It has been very blustery up to now. I never felt such a cold and wet winter in Hawkes Bay as this one has been. The youn[g] man that brought the horses tells me Mr Strang is very poorly. At his time of life it is what must be expected. It is not likely that life can be much pleasure to him now. With many thanks for your remembrance I remain with every good wish for both. Your sincere friend Archibald John McLean PS. Donald has at last got what he justley deserved. Very few if any has done more for his adobted country than he has done altho my brother. I consider it proper to gave my oppinion on what he justley deserved. He had many an anxious time of it when few did know it, and often without much cridit from those he did so much for. If Douglas will work his cards [?] as well he will do and I have no fear but he will turn out a good man. At all events he offers well for it from what I hear. A.J.McL. To the Hon Robert Hart