Napier Feby. 9th. 1871. Dear Sir, I would write much oftener but I hear of you from Mr. Ormond flitting here and there. I enclose you a copy of our new paper - it comes out very creditable - the leading article is by J. Worgan - and the bit about the "Man at the Wheel" marked is Johnny Marshall. The elections are shortly coming off I believe the Writs have arrived today. As well as can be judged I believe the returns will be as follows Napier Kennedy Sutton, Newton Tiffen Buchanan. Napier C. Wood and Maney or Whitmore Te Aute Lambert (Carlyon?) Waipukurau A'Deane Porangahau Mr. Ormond Hampden Bridge (or Carlyon Major) Wairoa Kinross Mohaka Dolbel Petane T. Richardson Havelock Nelson? (or Tanner?) Waimarama Capn. Russell or Col. R. Clive Rhodes or Nelson? Mr Tanner I imagine will have enough to do with his private affairs. Tuke is going so also is Capt. A.H. Russell for Meanee. All hands are as busy as bees preparing for the Council - as the question of Railways Immigration and Public Works will be brought before them. Poor Capt. Carter was saying the other day that the Council would be on him before he knew it. I am afraid he will never come to office again - he does not seem to have the strength of mind required to tackle figures. Tylie is acting for him - I also read Jn. Worgans 2nd article on same subject. To give you an idea of the friendly feeling that exists between the H.B. Herald and Telegraph, I have cut out a little paragraph for your perusal. The Telegram is altogether acting very well - there are good many of your staunch supporters who have shares, H.R. Russell Wilson Towgood Whitmore - tried hard to make it an opposition proper but the shareholders and managers said it wont to oppose the Govt. we should go to the Wall in a month. How pleasant it is to see Govt. supporter after Govt. Supporter returned for the Colony in the H.G.A. Tanner has been very unwell lately he was given up low fever beer now. We fully expected to see you shortly but Mr. Ormond told me this mg. you were not coming down in the Luna. Please excuse this hasty scrawl as I am very busy and expecting you had not written beforehand. Your obt. svt. Geo. Thos. Fannin. The Hon. Donald McLean Esq., Auckland.