Wanganui 4th. Janry. 1853. My dear McLean, Your letter with its enclosure I received some time since, and should have answered ere this, but was unwilling to trouble you so soon after the heavy misfortune with which it has pleased God to afflict you, I shall never forget your kindness in thinking of my affairs at a time when you must have been suffering under so severe a dispensation of providence I will not dwell longer on this heart rending subject but merely observe that both Mrs. Carrington and myself most sincerely sympathize with you and poor Mrs. Strang whose loss is almost greater than your own, we rejoice to hear that your little boy is thriving so well and trust that providence may preserve him to you and his grandfather to be a comfort to him in his declining years. I got Mr. Taylor to write to Mr. Sinclair the Colonial Secretary at Auckland before the receipt of your letter, but send it forward with a few lines by myself by the first post, Mr. Graham would receive it about Christmas and I look for an answer in about a fortnight from this time, I had a letter from Dommett on the subject, which Mr. Taylor enclosed to Mr. Sinclair by which he will see that I am refused my land in the southern district. I have now to write to you on a different subject, John is very anxious to hear from you concerning Thomas's sheep station and whether he can have the management, as I think we'll find you at the Ahuriri perhaps you could write him or me a few lines to let us know if it is yet open, John thinks he is losing his time here. I had a letter lately from Don Pedro he has applied for leave and I expect him in Feby., he is inclined to exchange with Rees, I sounded the little D. and he seemed pleased with the idea but said he must first dispose of his property at Wanganui, I hear he has been offering it for sale since I spoke to him. The Maid of Isla has foaled some time since, a colt, Cameron says had it been a filly it never should have left Wiritoa. With best complts. of the season I remain Most sincerely yours, M. Campbell.