Auckland Hotel, Auckland June 21st, 1866 My dear Sir, Your kind letter of compliment to myself and officers and men under my command was received with the greatest pleasure and we feel the more gratified in having gained your approbation than that of other Men, because we appreciate your worth. I have been exceedingly busy since my arrival. All the men are now on their Waikato Land. I return to Poverty Bay as soon as possible in order to make arrangements for a Farm. You know my plan is if I can secure a Commission in the new Force to take a Partner in the Farm. If you can kindly give me some idea of the intention of the Government with respect to the Poverty Bay District I shall esteem it a favor as I can then go clearer to work. I am your obedient Servant at all times you wish to command me and altho' but a Mouse at present and begging the lion's kindly favor, only awaits an opportunity to break or help gnaw any net you may happen to want to break through. The Auckland people say they intend fighting hard for their Poverty Bay District. Business matters are very flat here, but the Waikato settlements are now on the turning point of thriving. If you are good enough to write please adress me at Poverty Bay. With kindest regards, I am, my dear Sir, Yours very respectly. Chas. Westrup D. McLean Esqr. WELLINGTON.