Taranaki 12 Augt 1852 My own dearest Douglas I hear that the 'Eclair' sails today for Wellington and although I am surrounded as usual with European and native land claimants I must not forget my own puss. I spent yesterday evening at the Rev Mr Kingdon's, a very pleasant gentlemanly person. Mrs Kingdon is rather delicate. The Govetts were there, at least Miss Hunter and Robert. Govett is living in town for change of air. We also had a young nobleman Lord Robert Cecil there. He is on his way to Whanganui and Wellington. The weather here is delightful. The mountain is one of the grandest objects in New Zealand or indeed I may say that there is not a finer natural object in the shape of a mountain in the world. I have got some butter for you. It may not be ready for this vessel. My native duties are going on pretty well. I have had a letter from my brother Archy from America. He is quite well and doing tolerably after sustaining some severe losses. You must excuse this very hurried letter as I am in a great hurry and if I have a spare moment I will write Papa and you in the course of a few hours but I must not lose this chance. The starting of vessels from here is so uncertain. God bless you my own Douglas and believe me your own very affectionate husband Donald McLean