our engagement that caused so much foolish speculation and gossip to our acquaintances and which frequently gave us both considerable annoyance. More especially little pussy seemed very cross when told that her Highland lad should never turn again. I am again disturbed and must bid you good night. God bless and keep your and believe me ever to remain your own faithful husband Donald McLean 20 Novr Since I last wrote I have had a great meeting of natives. Paid them £1000 so that gold is abundant here at present. I have disposed of several things, clothing etc to Park and others as they were chiefly things that you would not like me to wear so that the cash will be quite as acceptable to both of us. I only wish some of my odds and ends from Taranaki were here. I could sell them all for good prices and buy sheep. The sheep I have got here are doing well. I sold a hundred of them lately for £100 and I have still more than I commenced with 7 months ago, and I am