8 March 1864 Glenorchy My dear Donald I promised the boy Bobby two days leave and I send him down with your horse. I could not find your own saddle at the station but you have mine to come up with and the boy can get the old saddle if he gets the little mare from Ferguson to come back. Catherine sends a cake for dear Douglas in hopes it may overtake him. I felt very much parting with the dear boy but I hope God will protect him and guide him in health and strength to return among us again in a few years a good and learned young man. If Mr Wilson has fin[al]ised the deed will you please to bring it up as it will safe me going down again. I am going to commence in great earnest to try and make money to pay up for this place by the time the mortgage is out. I trust if living to have it free and then I will be happy to have to feel so far independent through industry and care. I have no fear of doing it. we hope to see you by the end of the week. I remain your affectionate brother Archibald John McLean