Ahuriri 15 Decr 1851 My own dear Douglas I am just leaving on my inland route for Wellington. I shall use all the haste I can but may be unavoidably delayed by native meetings on the journey. Mr Williamson will deliver some boxes of mine when he arrives. The bacon you better have opened and used at Mama's. I do trust dearest that she will yet survive the awful sufferings she is now so patiently enduring. May the Almighty help her in her afflictions and preserve her to advise and direct us in our various duties. I am thankful that you are now living at Papa's and quite approve of all that my little pet has done. Your own and Papa's letters by the Rose I received yesterday and although the contents were sorrowful enough yet I was relieved of great anxiety by hearing from you and I really find dearest that your prudence and good sense exceeds my expectations when you are so forgiving for my long absence. May you always look to God as your Protector. I read the Psalms you wished me. They are beautiful. I feel dearest that we may have deserved some chastisement from the Almighty. We have been too much wrapped up with each other to the exclusion of more religious and important considerations. Even now I find you are in my thoughts as I waken in the morning instead of the Almighty who has given me you and all and every other blessing that I enjoy. Give Mama a kiss from me. Tell her I soon hope to see her. May God bless you both and preserve you is the earnest prayer of your affectionate husband. Donald McLean You have yourself to blame pussy if I am a few days late as you object to my going by sea however dearest you may feel afraid I will not be longer than I can help. [On verso] No letter paper or envelope