Letter from W. (?) or P. Wilson to Donald McLean, dated 22nd. July 1854 New Plymouth 22nd. July 1854. My dear Mac, I have nothing particular in the way of news to give you; and indeed, have no motive for writing, save for my own purposes, seeing that you are some two or three letters behind, (as usual), in the line of correspondence. I had a letter sent to me some fortnight ago, by Crompton and Gledhill, soliciting a subscription for a piece of plate for Col. Wynyard. A number of others were likewise written to; and we had a meeting last night regarding it. No objection was offered to the measure, except by myself, and on the ground that it had the semblance, to me, of being the hit obligee to Sir George Grey; and that on every account, such a testimonial was premature; above all, I thought the word in the inscription, had a double meaning. As, however, I have no wish to throw cold water on the good intention towards the Colonel, I offered to be out to collect subscriptions, and even to head them with my own name; but withholding the money till I learn how the affair is regarded in Auckland. If, therefore, it be not a party business, and has no point at Sir George, be so good as to put my name down for a pound. Have you any wig-makers in your capital? I have a lady patient here, whose hair is falling off in handsful, and I have recommended that she keeps it shaved for a season. So as to enable her to do this, and yet enter into society, she must have some front locks to put on, i.e., if you can procure such. I shall put the circumference of her head on the envelope of this note. The colour of her hair is jet black. If you can obtain them, please send them by the first opportunity, or first steady hand coming this way. Patricio came up from Wanganui three days ago. So far from being sick, he has grown a great lusty fellow, with a hand like a blacksmith's biggest sledge-hammer. He returns on Monday. He says Brian Taylor has been making a rough census of the population, (European) of Wanganui and Rangitikei, --- and that without reckoning the military, it exceeds Can it be? I am here in misery, in so far as regards the hospital. My requisition for stores, sent on 3rd. February, to Auckland, not yet answered. Pretty Government, eh? Yours very faithfully (Signed) W (?) or P. Wilson. To:- Donald McLean.