Private and Confidential. Auckland 18 July 1875 My dear McLean, I have been up all night, and am very nearly knocked up again. I have not had time to get a copy of the Ohinemuri agreement ready for you, but send the Provincial Gazette (two copies) containing it. I also send part of the proceedings Grey versus self and others - I am afraid have been done out of the other portion - I have been quietly working for you here. I have silenced the Herald by putting Wilson, Stone and others in a stew about their kauri timber at Shortland - The ''Tcho'' my opponent came and made the ''amende honorable'' to me a few days ago, and will during the Session be hand in hand with the Cross - I have enlightened my the Thames Advertiser on a few points and he promises better behaviour for the future - This writ of Grey's did me great harm for a few days - but now proceedings are withdrawn it has gone back on to him tenfold - Swanson promises to support me and induce Sheehan to do likewise on land purchase or any other questions where I am attacked - and will try to soften Greys asperity -Vonder Hyde you cultivate he is wavering he however said he would see justice done to me in re Tairua writ - Once commit him against Grey and he will be secure - Luckie and ONeill are well primed - Murray dangerous coquetting with Grey. ORorke savage with Grey re Lashes Benevolent Society and Onehunga Slaughter yard (he says wrong to John Williamsons last wishes etc.) - will not let Grey have all his own way re Tairua, ORorke having confirmed Preece's rights to timber and easements - I will leave here 24th for Wellington but I must go to the Thames to counteract Greys little moves with both Pakeha and Maori - revulsion of feeling just setting in I will take it at the flood - Excuse haste - Going over to Onehunga to catch Luna - am half asleep - Believe me Ever yours faithfully James Mackay