Taranaki May 29th. My dear McLean, I arrived here in safety and good health on the 25th. after a considerable delay at Whanganui and a detention of 3 days on the coast. I find everything is very quiet here and the people are all exceedingly kind in welcoming me on my arrival, but I am afraid they expect too much from me in the way of purchasing land. The general opinion seems here to be that the Chiefs who have a claim on the Bell Block will be very glad to receive the £30 whenever it is offered. I wish you could manage to send it up to me. I think if you were to make an official application to have the sum transferred at once it would be a good thing - and if they offer in the meantime to receive it, I will make application to the Sub Treasurer to advance me the amount on imprest at once. The people here say that the Natives have expressed their willingness to sell a block north of the Bell as soon as that is settled for. I am going down this morning to see my rebellious children at Waitara. I hear they are more obstinate than ever, and that the influence of the Mamaku people is declining. This place is very much improved since I was here, and the society also is I am told much better. I have not seen any newcomers yet, but a ball is coming off on the 2nd. which will be a good introduction for me. I write this hurried note by the Eclair which is on the point of sailing for Wellington. Flight and old Smart are going in her. I will write you at length per O.M. Kind regards to Mrs. McLean, Faithfully yours, G. S. Cooper.