28 Jany., 1856. My dear McLean, I received your letter of the 31st ult. only a few days ago, which however letter was very welcome as I had not heard from you for a long time. We wished much you were here about two months ago on account of a critical affair of the murder of a native woman which for some time was very threatening Kemp had slunk off to the Bay and Johnson was at the most critical moment at the Waihuku using language to the natives reported to be very offensive to them. Davis rendered good service on the occasion and acted with great tact and judgment and the trial was got over very satisfactorily. The Judge (Stephen) behaved like a trump. Smith from the East Cape arrived immediately afterwards with a large party of the murdered womens friends ready to devour us. By Smith's assistance we set the matter right for the present till the murderer is hanged. The Executive Council have concurred with me in the propriety of sending Johnson back to Wangarei and detaining Smith to act as Native Secretary till the Governors return. Otherwise we are getting on smoothly and well. All at home desire to he kindly remembered to you. Poor old Macdonald is dying. The land market is flat and the Waihuku block will not be in it for another month. So that is all my say at present. Give my love to Strang, Munro and Richmond. The Colony is not so bad after all that has such men in it. Yours truly, A. Sinclair.