Letter (seems unfinished, or part of it missing) to Donald McLean Esq. dated 20th. September 1851. New Plymouth, 20th. September 1851. And so Mr. McLean, you are married . . . You sly dog. Humbugging us all cleverly, I verily believe, even after the ring was bought. But I ought not to grumble at being imposed upon, for The Wigs postponed judgment for two days; the old Captain expressing the hope that it might be settled out of Court. I was sick and disgusted with the affair; and desired Cutfield to do anything he pleased; so he and Wilson awarded me half value, from £10 to £12, being the award I claimed; and to Donald, my friend, the Court of Equity and Conscience, is offensive in my eyes. But that I am the most placable of mortals, I would give the "Settlers Courtmartial aforesaid", ---------- (?)for a wife (?) at the Majesty of Justice. Though I asked you whether I should pay your subscription to the Book Club, 1850, - you never answered me. I did so, however; but do let me know about 1852. If you are not to return hither, why should you subscribe? You have somebody now to look after your pence, - a matter which you greatly needed. note: (unsigned and unfinished.) from Samuel King? pencil note: See p. 241 - account of Court action against Miss Wicksteed. I tricked you pretty much in the same atrocious way, even on the morning I was shackled. I had the pleasure of seeing Mrs. McLean once when she ministered to my appetite for cake and wine; and once again, "en passant"; but blind I, not "wide awake", omitted to bow; and consequently lost recognition. But it was not a cut; guiltless, therefore, of aught but the kindest feelings, - pray offer to your lady, my compliments and congratulations. It will give me pleasure to introduce Mrs. McLean to my sister, and her acquaintances, at the earliest opportunity. And when will that opportunity come? Will you live here, or there? People are grumbling here in first rate style, at your prolonged absence. It will take a deal of soft words to reconcile them to it. Your "Penny Cyclopaedea", etc., completed and bound, after being to Sydney, are on board the "Lucy James". The weather has beat her off, she having only landed her mail and passengers; all of which we heard were upset in the surf, greatly to the detrement of their clothes and their comfort. We are looking for the "Norfolk". Folks say she was seen steering towards Nelson. The "Simla" has some 20 passengers for this place, 'tis said; and she likewise is due from Auckland. A member of our denomination with a family of seven, is aboard; but we know not who or what he is, beyond. Did you know Miss G. Vickers (?) - a protege or relation of Greenwaddy? She is wheedling little Good out of his celibacy. He said they are to be married in December. I have had to bring Miss Wicksteed into Court for a balance of accounts. That "honest Jago" her brother put her up to it, repudiating her own written admissions of the debt; and of course he talked an infinite deal of nothing to the purpose. But Wilson was evidently crammed by him; and though he prejudged the question, and had besides personal animosity to me, he sat on the Bench... People are indignant at his conduct. His bias was apparent to the spectators. An objection of Wicksteed's, was pronounced by Wilson, valid, - an objection raised by Standish not filling the Summons in accordance with the bill of particulars.... So I was obliged to come into Court again. Cutfield was on the Bench in addition.