Hokianga 12 October 1872 Dear Sir, Though no longer a member of the Ministry (which we all deplore) you are I am sure interested in all matters connected with the natives; during the last week we have lost two of our principle men namely Te Tai Papahia, Rarawa, and Te Whata Te Tahua, Ngapuhi, the former was a real good fellow one of the old Maori gentlemen, Maning was with him at his death, he sent a boat for me, but we were to late, he was dead when I reached Waihou. Both men were fine specimens of natives but more particularly Te Tai. The natives here can't at all understand changes of Ministry, it is no treason I hope to say I trust Mr. Mackey may not be appointed Native Minister. The Rarawas will have at him, if he ever comes this way, they will never forgive his conduct in Te Wakas affair - I think it more than probable that the Northern natives will get upa petition to the Crown to make the Native Ministers a permanent office, many chiefs having spoken to me on that subject lately but until some more competent person than Mr. Mackey is N. Minister it would I think be a pity such a thing should take place Maning and I often talk it over and he thinks it would be a great boon to the country and might be the saving of the natives themselves. You will be sorry to hear that poor Mr. Clendon is very ill I much fear on his death bed, he is suffering from an attack of "Partial Paralysis" he is very bad - I think I told you before the House met, that McLeod would vote against the Govt. he has done so I see, public feeling is strong against him, he will never represent this district again; in the event of a dissolution I think H. Williams would come forward, some of the people from Okaihau and here asked me to stand, I told them the truth; first I was not fit, next I was too poor. Webster won't come forward, but perhaps there will be no dissolution so no need of Election. I am sorry to say the Govt. have decided not to build a Court House here, it is bad I think for native meetings to be held ina Public House But I must do my best to keep order amongst them, and they are really a very bidable people. Trusting you will forgive me thus wasting your time - but I cannot forget your great kindness to me upon all occasions when you had it in your power to assist me which by the way is no excuse for troubling you I am dear Sir, Yours very sincerely, Spencer von Sturmer The Honble. Donald McLean Esqre. Wellington