Taranaki July 30th 1852 My dearest Douglas The 'Governor Grey' leaves today for Whanganui and I send by her to say that I am working as hard as I can to settle some matters here in order to get back to my pussy as soon as possible. We have most delightful weather but I should enjoy my trip much more had I you along with me and I am certain a visit to this place would do you a great deal of good. I expect to have another opportunity of writing to you in a few days by the return of the 'Lucy James' from Kawia. I sincerely trust you continue to enjoy good health, that you take moderate exercise and that you read, sew and look after your various duties attentively, not forgetting that a little dignity should be observed even in the management of those affairs as well as in the interchange of civilities with neighbors. A necessary change takes place when a lady is married that requires an exercise of prudence and judgement of which you should be possessed and it is quite necessary that you should always look to the best and most respectable member of society for examples of your guidance. I have often felt that your inclinations lead you to associate more intimately with persons of a doubtful position in society than with those of a more genuine and respectable description and the sooner you change your sentiments on this subject the better. I am afraid from the number of people that are coming in that I must close my letter. Be a good and dutiful girl. Remember me to Papa. He will have received my letters by the Kawai cutter that left here yesterday. Tell him I have heard of the young Bakers that Judge enquired for, and believe me ever Your own affectionate Donald McLean