Wellington 4 March 1869 My dear McLean, I find that during my absence from Wellington, a mistake has been made in gazetting Major Green to a majority in the Napier Militia - It occurred in this way In October last he was recommended to Dr. Pollen (acting for me) and his appointment was duly signed. I found it on my return from Wanganui, and thinking that from the subordinate position he was holding he was not a suitable person to be a Field Officer of Militia, I put the papers away in my drawer, intending that they should not be acted on; but when I was away the other day they were taken out and passed through the Gazette on the supposition that I had overlooked them - He now becomes senior to Carlyon which is not at all right or desirable, but I do not wish to have the appointment cancelled without some reason can be given - Could you not induce him to resign this appointment, which I am sure you will agree with me is incompatible with his present position as a clerk in your office. I do not wish to put an unpleasant task upon you if you are unwilling to undertake it, but I think that your asking him to resign would hurt his feelings less than if I have to do it - Yours very truly T. M. Haultain