26 September 1863 Napier My dear Donald I came down here yesterday evening with my produce thinking to meet you, at all events Douglas. It was just dark as I was passing the Atheneaum and saw some boys at the door and I sung is that you Douglas. Hilo said the boy, I am not Douglas. Then when I got to you house I found you both gone and Kate at Kinrosses. Dear me, do you know I did not feel nothing for your being away but after making myself believe before leaving home to have the pleasure of having Douglas to pass a few hours with as he said in his letter to me when I came down we would have a long talk. I do hope you will both return safe. I saw your few lines to Kate saying you were coming overland and Douglas on the 13th. The sheep were partly in and docking and there is a fine show of lambs. I broak in two of your heifers since I saw you and was able to plow a little so with good providence I hope yet to weather the storm for a while longer. I see a letter to you from poor old Uncle. It is pleasing to hear from him. I was always very fond of him altho he had some small peculiarity about him still he allways was sterling in advice. If I am spaired I will be down again about the end of next month with some produce. The screw press has gone up and timber to make ready for shearing etc. Always your attached brother Archibald John McLean Old Kate has comenced to make the gardin look well. If you come our way you will see a great improvement. A J McL