Onehunga Dec. 17/57 My dear Sir, I am just off on board and have no time or paper to write an official answer to Mr. Richmond's letter. I must now do so from New Plymouth but I may in the mean time say to you that all the things considered I deem it my duty to accept of the office offered and for the sake of the interests of the Natives to attempt its duties. If I find those duties incompatible with my other obligations as a Christian missionary why then I am sure you and the other gentlemen of the Government will allow me honourably to retire. I observe the "Act" requires three Commissioners whereas the latter only mentions two Mr. Cutfield and myself. If I might suggest a third I would say Mr. Flight Mr. Parris or Mr. Halse. But I must not pokanoa --- you are the best judge. Pardon me for not calling upon you again but I have really been so hurried. Make my apologies and respects to Mr. Richmond and believe me Yours very sincerely, John Whiteley. D. McLean Esquire.