Ma chere frere Have not had a letter from you for a long time but can scarcely expect it seeing you are going to much too & fro. This last success is a great achievement. A good stroke at a good time rekindling faith in the most incredulous. At first there was a murmur at the number of prisoners but that soon gave way to a proud feeling of exultation when the news was really confirmed. Mr Condie returned last week from Napier quite excited about it. I give you his own words about it[crossed out]. When asked as to what was thought in Napier "Very proud of it. Very proud of it [crossed out]." Several are hankering after Curling appointment. It would be in accordance with your usual forbearance to reinstate him till such time as he is entitled to a pension. Mr Ormond is very strict & severe. This may suit him and when understood have its effect but in the meantime appears harsh and unfeeling. Kate could not have done anything that I appreciated more. Gave us a flying visit with a budget of news that was all so pleasant. Douglas of course was the main topic. His manners she says are so finished altogether most gentleman like. It will be a great enjoyment his being beside yourself. Some say that Auckland is too damp a place but as to this you will have been advised by those that can judge correctly. By his letters he seems playful and fond of amusement but not too much so to be detriment of his studies. Am afraid when the time comes for going south there will be little time to devote to Napier if any but as long as I get a letter to know that you are well I am happy. Everything is going on here steadily and orderly. Since Mr Twigg and extra hands left there is not an idle man about the place, so Condie or Alick do the extra work themselves. They seem to get on most courteously together. Condie is a high principled good man. There are somethings he is not equal to but in every other way to be relyed on. I write this to keep your mind at ease and I can merely give what I can gather from observation. Am writing to "Lady Jane" but how do I know but she has an Auckland correspondent. Had a dream about her the other night which has given me an incentive to find out. In haste Yours Annabella McLean Marekakho April 27th /70