N. Plymouth Jan. 31 1856 My dear Sir, I am obliged to you for your letter of the 7th instant. The difficulty in acquiring land from the natives here is a matter I greatly regret, nevertheless they do not allow me much idle time for there is generally something to attend to, moreover the duties of asst. nat. secretary provide employment for any blank days in the Land purchasing department, requiring my presence at any moment in opposite directions. This last compels me to keep a horse. The duties of Interpreter in addition to the above will ever be conflicting and little or no advantage can accrue under the management. The salary for these three offices is £150 and if Government can get anyone to undertake the duties, well and good, I cannot, there is therefore no alternative but to leave the service and follow some other pursuit. It reflects upon me or the system that having been so long in the service I should have to work now at a reduced salary with the certain prospect of accumulating and unavoidable debts before me. With regard to the £150 you were good enough to say you would invest for Mrs. Halse I shall feel obliged, in case this is not done, if you would instruct your agent to return me the amount. Hoping you are well, I remain, faithfully yours, H. Halse. To:-- McLean Esq.