Wellington 14th. Feby. 1866 Dear McLean, We have talked over the matter of Whitmores sheep and concur in the view that we shall not probably be in a better position than we hold at present for asserting the law and will to the extent of our power back you up in such action as you may think advisable in that direction - what that should be we leave to your discretion as being much better able to judge upon the spot than we are at a distance. I fear the reduction to 350 men will be immediate - but I trust we may hold on by them, at least for some time. The General is here and we had a great dinner at Featherstones last night - today he feceives and Address - tomorrow the Governor gives him a semi-public dinner in the house of Representatives and next day he sails for Napier Tauranga and Auckland in the "Ahuriri". I fancy Haultain will accompany him. The "Eclipse" has just arrived from Auckland. I hear that Featherstone, Waring Taylor, and perhaps John Johnstone will be returned for Wellington. Pharazin is likely to be thrown out for Rangitikei and replaced by Mr. Watt of Wanganui. Please to tell Cooper I will reply to his letter (about the debt cases) by next mail. I am greatly pressed for time at present. In the mean time we had better get over the sheep case before we go into anything further. Yours very truly, A.H. Russell.