Wellington March 19 1860 My dear McLean, I regret much I did not see you before leaving - as I wanted to have a korero both on private and public matters - I intend writing to Kelham by this Mail - as I am not disposed to see either of you chiselled out of the run by a third party - and that party an agent - without putting K. on his guard - and in possession of all the facts of the case. I don't think it likely that Kelham will have fallen into the trap laid for him - as I repeatedly told him the value attached to the Licence - Re proposal for P. putting up the Run at 5/- - many months will elapse before he can do this - for Inspector won't certify except after a personal inspection - andhe is not likely to undertake the journey for such a purpose simply to enable P. to accomplish his purpose - I wish your memory had not been so good - for I feel a difficulty in either taking or refusing your more than ample acknowledgement of my past and present services - We will talk about your kind intentions anent the Welsh Pony (?) when we meet. I am anxious for Taranaki News. I shall be glad to hear that you think the Governor is on good ground - but right or wrong, I don't see how he can retreat from his position, without bringing upon the Colony all the evils of the most signal defeat of his troops I am sorry, he has called out the Militia here - it will only excite suspicion in the Native mind, and induce them to join W.King. I fear, their sympathies are entirely with him. The Barracks might been quite as well as guarded by enrolling a few Volunteers, of whom there would be no lack. Pray exert yr. influence to prevent as little parade of the Militia here as possible. What about the Genl. Assembly? In haste, Yours faithfully, I. E. Featherston