Waimate 10 March, 1856 My Dear McLean, I have just returned from a trip to the north; and have without waiting to forward my Reports this time, sent you a Reply to your Circular. I received your Note, and feel very glad to hear that Nelson business is now set at rest. Our friend Richmond generally made mountains of Mole-hills, notwithstanding I can well conceive that you had to manage it in your usual dextorous manner. The Victoria Valley I have traversed. Noble tells me he won't sell. It is a beautiful valley, of about 20,000 acres. After hearing what he had with others to say I intend to recommend £3000 as a special Bait, that is if the Govt. really mean to carry on efficiently and in earnest. There are also several other Blocks of land of considerable extent, in the north of this, which one man can scarcely manage now that the calls upon me are so numerous. White would undertake it with the aid of an Interpreter which he really ought to have in the centre of a Native population of about 4000. He would also expect some allowance - from his long residence there he is intimately acquainted with the Claims both (White has to send upwards of 20 miles to get a native letter translated)/ The Oruru business came under my notice, which is really one of considerable importance, the outstanding native claims have never been set at rest and the land has This should be attended to before anything serious happens. The Natives a very loud in their complaints. I think £350 would set this at rest if Two other Blocks on the north and south sides of the beautiful harbour of Wangaroa, I have inspected, altogether about 6 or 7000 acres. Some fine timber, good soil, and grazing grounds - there two may be got for I think £6 or 700. Upon these subjects I will send officially by next mail, as my Drafts are all prepared. I think you know me sufficiently well never to write to the Govt. unless there was good cause - I wrote for a £1000 - with this I could have met the thing at once and aseconomically as could be done. I should like to know from you how we stand. You will have received my official application for an increase, and now that you have returned will I doubt not do the best. When I see the Provincial officers with their £400 and £500, I feel very vexed, for after all are the principal addition to the Revenue. In reference to the accounts, I did all that I could. Baylis, I gave up entirely - the account I have now sent is without the sub vouchers, as I felt you would like to have it as soon as possible - the sub vouchers I will forward another time. Purchases could be made largely for some time to come here and in the North, if cash was ready. Believe me, Faithfully yours, H. T. Kemp