Napier 18 Feby. 1869. My dear John, I am anxious to know when I may expect the ewes you promised to send. With reference to the bill drawn upon you that you must retire yourself as I cannot be mixed up with these paper transactions, and I was not prepared to pay what I have already done and which I shall have occasion to draw upon you for before long. I mean the half of the original bill. I enclose Mr. Wilsons bill for £6--12--3 which you must tell me whether you intend to pay or not, I am ashamed to have it furnished so often if you do not intend to adhere to your promise of paying it say so. The samples of wool you mentioned have not yet come to hand I expect you will not send me any but the very best wooled ewes what is the average weight of your clip per sheep? We are suffering here very much from the depression and general effect of the Native war and it will take some time for confidence to be regained. What is the state of things at Canterbury. I hear that even Robt. Rhodes is getting shaky and others who have been considered wealthy. I have made reductions of every kind and I hope you are not keeping up an establishment of servants beyond your means, you have been in the habit of keeping two or three while I with probably as large a house have been contented with one, I hope Jessie and the children are well how did you get on with your shearing, if I hear of any enquiries for some of your best ewes what price would you ask, what do you propose to charge me for mine? We have had fine rains of late and the country is looking well. I am anxious to get the ewes up so as to be in good condition for the rams at the end of March or beginning of April. Yours always, Donald McLean.