Auckland September 26 /59 D. McLean Esqr. Sir, I was down at Whakatane when your two letters, dated respectively June 23rd and July 18, arrived here. I only returned about 10 days ago. I got leave of absence for 6 weeks, and I was away 3 months! I could not get back within the time specified - I met Mr. Turton at Whakatane and went with him as far as Opotiki. He did not succeed in making peace at Whakatane. Mr.Black and his party gives Mr. Turton a very bad name, while the other traders gives him a very good one. Mr. Black was fined £100 which I suppose is Mr. Turton's offence. The natives paid great attention to him - and all seemed anxious to have the ''Ture's'' among them - and wished that a Magte. would visit them very often to instruct them in the English laws - The natives and traders are very anxious for a Postal line along the Bay of Plenty. They are getting up a Petition to His Excellency for a Postal line - The natives wants to see you down there - I believe the Tauranga people wants to sell land, and Maketu the same. Ohiwa the same and Tunapahore also. I wrote to Mr. Fitzgerald and thanked him for his kindness - and I am very much obliged to you for what you have done for me - I have signed the authority for you to receive the Crown Grant. I was out day before yesterday to see Douglas he is quite well and is very stout, he is getting taller than he was - He complains of your being so long away - The House is finished and looks very well both inside and out, and I think the varandah is not too narrow - The men asked me when you were coming back, as they want there money - I remain Your most obedient James Fulloon