old husband appears to be at times. I shall soon be expecting a few lines from pussy and I almost think I may give up writing to her. It cannot be so very many days before I leave to join her having no intention of going to Rangitikei. 10am. We had breakfast, morning prayers, and I have just had a short walk. I hear the clattering of horses hoofs, the voices of natives in the distance and there is every prospect that in a few minutes more I shall be at work in earnest and I do trust that I may not be delayed too long from Pussy. I will add no more my own dearest. The natives are arrived therefore I must conclude. May every blessing attend you is always the affectionate desire of your own Donald McLean. The weather here is lovely & bright. I wonder if the little slave has bathed this morning or over-slept herself.