Letter from P. Wilson, to Donald McLean, dated 19th. April 1853 New Plymouth, 19th. April 1853 My dear Mac, I wrote to you some ten days ago, and addressed, as I now do, to Auckland. I had a letter from Pat on Saturday, in which he surprised us all - if indeed any matter regarding your eccentrio movements should surprise anybody - by stating that you were again in Wanganui, and uncertain whether you should proceed to the Northern capital, via Taupo or New Plymouth. I have no present motive for writing to you, farther, probably, than to put you to the expence of postage; for we have no news, and the carriers of commerce seem to have forsaken our anchorage. By the way, one of our butcher's houses tumbled down last night, viz,- Lethbridge's, close by the Huatoki bridge, fronting J. Hoskin's. I see they are busy picking up the pieces; but it is a most thorough wreck. He has himself to blame, having foolishly attempted to dig an underground cellar, and neglected to prop sufficiently up. Have you got my interleaved copy of Busby on the Vine, and Hursthouse's History of New Plymouth, elucidated and improved by my running commentary thereon. I lent these to somebody; but who, I cannot say; so I ask you, knowing you to be about as negligent an individual in the way of returning, as one could desire to be acquainted with. All our household are well, and unite in kindest regards; and believe me, my dear Mac, ever most faithfully yours, (Signed) P. Wilson. To;- Donald McLean.