Letter from W.N. Searancke to Donald McLean Esq. (no date) Thursday. Dear Sir, I have compared all the Deeds (Maori) with Mr. Baker, and consequently not been able to go to Manukau as soon as I expected. I shall not be able to go across Manukau, (there being no boat), before to-morrow evening, or Saturday morning. I had a long interview with the Colonial Treasurer this morning (by appointment) about the Road. Mr. R. wished me to make a sketch generally of the best line of road southward from Waipa to Taranaki. You are aware of my views on the subject that a little delay to allow of the Tempo meeting impression to die away is the best course at present; so I replied that it was my intention to do so, but not at present; that you were anxious that I should take advantage of the fine weather and long days to complete the surveys of the purchases in Manukau and elsewhere; and when unable to do out-door's work from bad weather, etc., I should then make a general sketch of what I considered the best route, with my views on the subject. Trusting that our ideas on the subject are the same, I am, dear Sir, Yours very sincerely (Signed) Will. N. Searancke. To:- Donald Maclean Esq.