Sydney, 11th. August 1859. Dear McLean, I have sold out of the Army and returned so far on my way to New Zealand to get another run in place of that which I had at Nelson and which was bought away from me directly my back was turned. I go there today by the Lord Worsley - first to get my money (I believe about £6000) and secondly to try to get another Run there, but if I do not succeed there I shall go on and see what inducements Canterbury and Otago hold out. Will you kindly address a Note to me to the Post Office Nelson telling me what chance I should have of a large Run(say to carry 25000 sheep) at Ahuriri, and what chance of keeping it. I should not mind laying out from £1000 to £2000 in purchasing land if I could secure myself thereby. If you would also tell me of any other place which your general knowledge of the country enables you (better than anyone else I know) to do I should be very much obliged. I am alone having left my Family in Germany for education. What should I have to pay at Ahuriri for ewes - I write in great haste and hope you will pardon my giving you this trouble. Believe me Yours very faithfully, A.H. Russell. Several of the old 58th. are likely to follow me. I left them at Shurnecliffe.