Auckd. 29 Feby. My dear McLean, I am much obliged to you for your letter, and have made up my mind to take all the agencies I can. Sir Geo. Grey has promised me his, which will be a very good one. I have not invested Dr. Graces money as I dont think the Waikato Lands will be open for some time. However all is in the dark relative to them. If Dr. G. wishes I can invest it, in small suburban lots or village lots which will rise in value very much - ask him about it. I shall not give up my appointment at least not for some time, until I am established firmly - in the meantime I know you will kindly do what you can for me - when are you coming up - Pease is , as to the War, the papers will give you a better acct. than I can. The Ministry are getting on, the same as when you were here. Nixon is expected to recover. Our Forces are getting on well. I am quite tired of writing I have so much of it - so excuse this short letter. My children and Thompsons are well. I have now £17,00 of Thomsons, £1,600 on Mortgages, and £100 in bonds - all Balances recd. from Ridgway except the Books at Murrays. Yours H. Balneavis.