Kaipara 23 June 1864 My dear Sir, A short time since when I was in Auckland, one of Mr.Gilfillan's clerks told me there was a large bag or bail for me at the back of their store, accordingly I had the cart in the following day and found it in a very queer state which was vexatious considering the trouble you had in sending it to me, however they will make the most of it at Mount Albert, and many thanks to you for theseed. I only reed, your letter here yesterday. I dont like my billet here much as I dread this Whakawa business and people getting drunk sawyers and all that upsets my quiet way of moving along with the natives - However I must make the best of it as the salary is all important - How do you like the additional supply of troops, they will help to repel any premeditated attack as well as to introduce a circulation of some ready money which will be useful in your Province. The Uriohau have held a meeting on the subject of electing a member to represent their interests in the Ho. of Assembly and yours was the first name mentioned - Of course their voice will be small in the matter - Would you take the membership if the northern natives were unanimous in this matter - I often think of the flocks and herds the freehold lands are large runs and of yourself and wish that fate had willed it so that I could have been near you as of old, but as that cannot be there is no reason why we should not hear from you occasionally - This place is dull in the extreme - I have nothing new for you in the shape of gossip - I shall be very glad to receive the order for the post but as I am still going on in getting rid of my spare money - I find that great house at Mount Albert will cost more than will be agreeable to me - Nearly all the ploughed ground is now laid down to grass - I am, Yours very truly, J. Rogan Donald McLean Esq. The Kaipara Natives all swear by you, They say you brought them to light alluding to the affair between Ti and themselves about 8 years ago, I stand next in their estimation how that will last remains to be seen - However I echo their sentiment and say that you brought me into the ra e whitiana -