Auckland 8th. Sept. 1872. Dear McLean, I have just received your note, and quite agree with you that not a single new idea is at all likely to emanate from those who joined themselves to such dirty tools; in fact, they dare not express an opinion, for fear of offending some of them. I have just read a telegram from Major Jackson, and am greatly pleased. I have spoken to several here, and almost the only one who has influence with Gillies is to write to him, expressing his delight at the purport of the list received by Jackson. All here think that if possible, you should get Gillies into your party in some way or other. He is thoroughly honest, and well-meaning; that with all his obstinancy, the opinion is that he would do you good. I feel sure that if you could only make him Solic. Genl., or some such office, and Minister for Auckland, that you would do a great public good, and he would be of infinite and valuable assistance to the Judge. I am very sanguine that you will have overtures from Gillies, as soon as the mail from Auckland arrives; and I do hope you will meet him half way. You know that he is honourable and requires no emoloment.......... I think that Waterhouse will be a good man for you, and assist to strengthen your Government. I write by this mail to Kelly and Swanson, but will leave McLeod and Williamson alone. When they see that it is likely to be to their interest to join you they will; and I dare say that they know already that the miserable lot ..... (?) and Fitz. cannot last many days. If there is a General Election, I presume that it will go hard with McLeod, Munro, and Williamson, also Buckland, and possibly others. When you get all right, very possibly I may pay another visit. Looking after Craig's affairs, and I now feel sanguine that the C.J. is perfectly satisfied with the justice of Craig's case against Harris. I do hope to manage without asking any compensation from the country. With kindest regards to Mrs. Hart, I remain Yours faithfully, (Signed) Jas. Macfarlane.