Clive Grange Mch 24 /71 My dear McLean Have you ever called on Mr. Whitaker about Col. Brownes Lease because I have not yet heard a word from Whitaker. This matter I should like settled and Whitaker said he should be satisfied with your valuation of the rent to be paid for the property under a new Lease the old one having expired last Dec. I shall also be satisfied to leave the matter in your hands - I think 200£ a year is as much as any one else would ever dream of giving, but for a long Lease of 21 years I would give more. Do please try and settle this matter. I have been twice to Auckland and failed to meet you there each time. Whitaker won't settle it himself - He says Col. Browne has exaggerated notions of its worth derived from old Smith. The finest season for grass sowing I have ever known here is slipping past. I am sure Col. Browne if he looses me for a Tenant will be many a long year before he gets the same money rent and paid regularly as I have paid. He may find out what it is to get promises and no money at all. Yours very truly J. Rhodes I fear me I shall have to sell out my stock this winter or move them for I cannot know whether it is safe to breed a new cross of lambs on Col. Brownes property as the Lease is out and Mr. Whitaker wont take any steps whatever - I have taken it on for 6 mos. at the same rate which will expire in June but I cannot go on doing this as it is much more than the property is worth for a short term. I am sorry to have to apply to you in this matter, but Whitaker insisted on some reference and I agreed either to you or Ormond - He has heard what Ormond had got to say - You bought the property originally and know all about it and its present value - The neighbouring run St. Hill of quite the same quality and value of land is for sale Land at 12/- an acre sheep at 4/- Now twelve shillings an acre would suit me to purchase rather than pay exhorbitant rent - but the property lies handy for me - See what you can do and let me hear a line. I may do as much for you someday.