Napier Novbr 27th 1863 My dear Donald In case that you do not come down by this steamer (which I do not think you will) I send you a line to say that we are all well. Douglas is remarkably well. He goes out riding on John's pony which I think does him good. It is the school examination today & he is quite excited about it. I hope that he will get a prize. I had my party which went off remarkably well. Mr Kinross was most kind and took all the responsibility of me. I was so sorry that you were away however I am glad that we showed some little attention to the Tanners and they expressed themselves as much gratified. Mrs Wilson is still up at the station and quite delighted with Catherine's & Archy's attention to her. I hear that Alex is doing well again. Great excitement in town on Monday. News came that there was to be a general, rising of the natives and that all the settlers were to come in to town but that was all unfounded. Mr Wilson has returned with his two sisters. I had them here all yesterday while John was getting the house ready for them. Do not give yourself away as I know that you will be quite charmed with the Misses Wilsons when you see them. There is a letter to you from dear Annabella which I opened. It was written on board the Wild Duck in the Downs. Poor little thing she is in very low spirits and seems to feel the parting with Uncle more than any one. I had a kind letter from Mr Strang asking me to go down to Wellington to meet Annabella and that perhaps he will come up with us. Now I think that I have given you all the general news so good day. Your affectionate Sister Catherine Maclean Do not forget to bring the things for me. Am really in want of them. I forgot to tell you that the night of my party I had my boy dressed in his kilt and he looked remarkably well, only that I could not get a pair of respectable shoes for him. I do wish that you would bring one or 2 pairs from yr shoe maker in Auckland, and also a few pairs of shoes. The enclosed tape is the length of his foot. Now see and attend to "this" .