New Plymouth 30th Augst /52 My dear Mrs MacLean I cannot allow my son to leave us without a few lines from his "old mother" just to enable her to sing a little bit of his just praise. We were all truly delighted to see him once more in our domestic circle and only wish you had been able to accompany him as it would have afforded us no little pleasure to become personally acquainted with you. We must only hope that when he pays us his next visit the season will permit your undertaking the journey We regret his being obliged to leave us so soon and equally so that the natives have robbed us of so much of his company. We have actually hardly had time to talk over our little business matters, so completely have the natives occupied his time. We are thankful to find how well he keeps his good health notwithstanding his arduous duties. It is almost time that he be allowed some rest for he certainly has worked hard enough for many years. The settlers of New Zealand can never repay the good he has done for them, but I fear the majority are not sufficientl grateful to duly appreciate the laborious work executed for their benefit. Your good husband tells me that you have often commenced a letter to me. I hope that you will soon conclude and forward it for believe me it will afford me no little pleasure to hear from you when you can spare the time to write to me who will always feel a deep interest in the welfare of all in any way connected with Donald MacLean. Mr Wilson unites with me in kind regards and believe me My dear Mrs MacLean Yours sincerely H A Wilson