. Hikutaia. 22nd. August 1872. My dear Sir, I have been for some time on the eve of writing you, but somehow or other something always interfered. I find now I must not procrastinate any longer, and I trust that what I have to state will be a sufficient excuse for my addressing you. You are, of course, aware that I am the sole holder of the Hikutaia Blocks of Land, and that the same are held under mortgage to Mr. Nathan. On account of the various annoyances and aggressions I have been subject to on the part of the natives, I have been totally unable to meet the interest due Mr. Nathan. He has in consequence removed all my stook, and I may say that I am now perfectly penniless, and no resource to look to. This, you must admit, (after 50 years hard battling) is sufficiently distressing. However, if I was the only one concerned, I would not so much repone, but you must be aware that for some years back my sister and family have been wholly dependent on me; and to see them now reduced to beggary is rather more than I can bear. They will, of course, have to leave here; and how on earth I can get a roof over their heads, or support them in Scotland, God alone knows. I, of course, write you now privately, as an old friend, and will not enter into any details as to what has reduced me to my present unfortunate position. I may mention that Mr. Kemp was up here lately. Of course I can't say what his report may be but you are no doubt aware that a proposition has been forwarded to the Government by S.A. McCas-kill on my part, to accept of £4,500 and relinquish all my claims to land here. Though this amount would leave me but a miserable pittance after satisfying Nathan, still I would be thankful if the Government would entertain the proposition; and the reason of my now addressing you, is that you would use your influence in my behalf. There is no use in my saying anything more. I will expect to hear from you as soon as you can conveniently write, whether your answer will be satisfactory or otherwise; and with best wishes, I remain my dear Sir, Yours very faithfully (Signed) Allan McAskill. To:- D. McLean Esq. etc. etc. etc.