Russell 28th October 1871 My dear Mr. McLean Pray don't be annoyed at the accompanying letter - I could not do otherwise than write it - I regret these appointments much, as they will tend to weaken the party supporting the Government. All are open to objection - William Webster is a good man, but so wanting in energy and position, a mere chip in porridge - not at all like his brothers; and is in bad circumstances - Captn. Henry is a gentleman, but a terrible hard drinker, generally when on the bench here, the worse for liquor - of the other, Anderson, I know nothing but by hearsay I am told that he is working at the Whangaroa Saw Mill at 5/s a day - he and Nesbit are Nova Scotians - Now there are men among the Canadian Settlers at Okaihau (equally, with the four gazetted, supportersof Mr. McLeod) who are much better qualified to act as J. Ps. Charles Hargraves of Waimate too is a man of substance, and I think also one of Mr. McLeods supporters. I feel convinced that, should a contest take place now for a seat in the House for this district Mr. McLeod would lose by a large majority against him - it is matters like these that turn the scale - I am much afraid that the old Justices will resign - I have heard that two (one a neutral who did not vote last election, the other a strenuous McLeod-ite) will certainly do so forthwith. Pray look upon letter as confidential, for I never mention politics here, and I am sure that no one in the district is aware of how my party inclinations lead me - You will perceive that I am still here, tho' Mrs. Barstow and my family have been for some time living in Auckland - I am holding on in the hope that the Government may find me occupation elsewhere, for really I can't tell what Mr. Williams and myself have to do here to pass our time at this season of the year. Believe me to be My dear Mr. McLean Yours very truly J. W. Barstow