Hamilton 15th. Jany. 1872. My dear Mr. McLean, I am very glad to hear that Brabant has got the appointment of R.M. at Opotiki for a better qualified and better fellow is not to be met with, as his removal will cause a vacancy at Raglan might I suggest that my present Clerk Andrew Barton be transferred there and that Mr. Edwards now acting as Interpreter to the Officer Commanding be made Clerk in his place. I do not plead the quantity of the work, but the quality is such that a. Barton is incapable of undertaking. I have always kept all accounts etc. and found the inconvenience frequently. I have no ill will to Andrew quite the contrary and if no arrangements have been made to fill up vacancy caused by Brabants promotion, I will be greatly obliged if you would give this your consideration of course Mr. Edwards services would be always available by Col. Lyon when required. I am Yours very faithfully William N. Searancke. D. McLean Esq. Wellington.