New Plymouth Wedy. Morng. Jan. 7, 1852. Dear Sir, I have just seen your friend Mr. Pelichet who leaves this morning for the South with a joyful heart and my secret congratulations. The barque "Lord William Bentinck" arrived yesterday and landed about 30 people amongst them Mrs. and the two Misses Richardson. I tried hard (acting by proxy) to get a peep at them but couldn't succeed however I must try again and until then reserve my opinion. I intended to write by the "Bentinck" and will do so still if any turns up. in the mean time I forward some correspondence relative to the case of horsekilling in order that you may judge of the right and the wrong. I wrote as usual by the O. mail which left last Monday for the South and shall be looking out for a letter from you next Saturday. Cap. King paid the natives as usual for last quarter owing to the question of "Assessors" not having been arranged - on this subject I shall be glad to receive information. It is reported at Auckland that the Chief's successor is on his way out and that he (Sir George) is destined for the Cape, a strange place to send him if true. The wind is coming from the North West and I fear the barque will go to sea - what a bother it is to be minus a harbour. All your friends are well and will be glad to see you and Mrs. McLean - when are you coming. Excuse this hasty scribble and believe me, Faithfully yours, H. Halse. To: D. McLean Esq.