Chatham Islands 9 Feb. 1867. My dear McLean, I just write a line to say that things are going on all right in this part of the world and Prisoners' behaving well. As I heard it was your wish that I should remain here over the stipulated time six weeks, I have not said much about returning I hear the steamer will not be here until March at which time I wish to return to N.Z. as I shall then have been nine months with the exception of 12 days away from my family, and from what I hear of the Winter the excessive damp would not agree with me. My three years of service will expire in April, I hope my volunteering for this place may be of some service to me as to my getting other employment. I have heard that the officers of the Military Settlers are to receive commissions on the New Police Force. It may be true, but I put little faith in Govts. I am sure you will do all you can for me in anything that may turn up. I must take employment of some kind. It was my intention to have gone into the Council again for the Country District. But I dont much regret my Provincial honors. I am too poor a man to go into Politicks. I hope my brother Arthur will relieve me. I have written to him asking him to do so. With king regards to all friends. I remain, Yours faithfully, Edmund Tuke.