Letter from H.T. Kemp to D. McLean, dated 11th. October 1848 Wellington 11th. October 1848 My dear McLean, I have been a long while fulfilling my promise of sending you a line, but to tell the truth, no opportunity has offered of my obtaining any information upon the points to which our attention was directed, until Captain Grey's arrival the other day. The result has been that for the present, at least, I shall remain in the South; both of us being charged with the purchase of land for the Company, - yourself, between this and Whanganui, and the Wairarapa or Canterbury settlement being my portion. What time these duties will take is uncertain. Suffice it to say that the Governor-in-Chief has decided upon our receiving one guinea per day, in addition to our ordinary salary. This is to include forage for horse, and everything else, while engaged on this special service. No certificated or Bills will now be necessary. I think, on the whole, the allowance liberal. What say you? I had several interviews with Captain Grey upon this and other matters, and I think he is disposed to treat the Native Officers liberally. I embodied the whole of our views upon the subject; and gave him a very broad hint that Officers would not be found willing to accept the employment, unless better paid. On the whole I think prospects good; and an untiring and unceasing agitation when good opportunities offer, will tend much to further our views. I rely, therefore, much upon your cooperation and advice. Mr. Mantell is in the Middle Island, carrying out the details of the recent purchase I made there. Captain Grey is well pleased with both our exertions there and at Whanganui. Mr. Bell accompanies me to the -----(?) on the part of the Company; and this will probably meet you on the way down to the Rangitikei. Symonds is gone home, and for the present the duties of Native Secretary, at Auckland, will be carried out through the Civil Secretary' Department. I am glad to hear of your recovery from the severe attack at Whanganui; and believe me, faithfully yours, (Signed) H.T. Kemp.