Letter from H.I, Kemp to Donald McLean Wellington 20th. January 1854. My dear McLean, As in all probability this will find you at Taranaki, I will not trouble you beyond a few lines. The last Auckland mail brings us word of the Governor's proposed time of sailing; so that if matters require your presence at Taranaki for a few days longer, you will no doubt make it convenient to remain. We are hourly expecting the Brig, and when she does come in, there is some talk of relieving the Detachment of the 65th., now stationed at Wanganni. It is just possible that I may receive some intimation of arrangements having been made at Auckland by the mail which comes by her. Swainson of the Survey Office received a long letter from Richmond, in which he states that it is not unlikely he may travel overland to Wellington by the West Coast. He also gives a most inter- esting account of their trip to the Islands. Swainson also received news from Cooper, who says that he had received intimation of his appointment as Land Commissioner; but had received no particulars as to salary, etc., and that he was to remain at Taranaki. This looks something like an organisation. Whether or not I receive anything by the Brig, I shall continue to expect the favour of a line from you. The purchase of the Block off Hemi Te Miha and others, I was enabled to settle satisfactorily for you. I obtained the money for the Superintendent, as the Commissioner was too busy in the Colonial Chamber, It however, makes but little difference, and was done with the consent of all parties concerned. The Deed, I will send you if you desire it. In the meantime I will get a Translation made, and get Strang to certify and register the original, before risking it overland. We all felt much delighted that the weather continues to be so fine; especially as you had ventured, in what might be termed, very little better than an open boat. We shall all be very glad to hear of your safe arrival. Give my kind regards to Cooper; who will have been agreeably surprised by your visit; and believe me, Yours very faithfully, (Signed) H.T. Kemp. To:- D. McLean Esq.