Auckland, June 14/47. My Dear McLean, I was glad to learn by your letter of the 24th ult. that every thing was going on well with you. We were afraid that Natives from other parts of the Colony had approached your Settlement and added to your already sufficient amount of troubles about the land purchases etc. Should such an unfortunate accession of evil take place much will depend on what you will be able to effect in pacifying their turbulent spirits. I feel confident you will render valuable services to the Community in such a case, and as usual do yourself credit. I suppose the Governor has been with you before this can reach you, and given you instructions and authority for several things that you would otherwise be in want of. With respect to the additional Native which Capt. King and you have thought advisable to add to the Police Force I do not anticipate any obstacle but it will require the Governors special authority and I have not therefore answered your letter yet as he is still absent from Auckland. We are however hourly expecting him back although there is nothing urgently requiring him here. The news of Mr. Bolland's death has caused much sorrow here and his loss must be much felt by you and his other friends in your limited society. We are getting on pretty well in Auckland and have little to complain of except of evils we make to ourselves. I have good accounts from Scotland with the exception of some of the most remote parts of the Highlands where the Potato disease has caused much want, but great efforts public and private are making to relieve the distress. Pray let me hear from you by next opportunity. I remain, Yours truly, A. Sinclair.