Thursday 5 November [1874] Mon chere frere This mail has brought me no letter. I could hardly expect it. You are busy up country but never the less it is a disappointment. I have seen some H.B. Heralds and know what is taking place. The wool sorter was here sadly put out at the detention of the steamer. I offered him a bed here but he has not returned since he telegraphed to you. Heard from Douglas on Saturday. He had reached Akitio that Sunday night. The young man, Mr Hart's protege, has come back complaining of the roughness of the place. Mr Hart says an after dinner speech does away with the necessity of a hustings speech. I hope it is not so dusty at the station as here otherwise it will be bad for the shearing. I hope all are well. Mr Gill is most attentive in reference to the repairs of the house. There is a Highland lad here as gardener. The facsimile of young Archy but not quite so spruce. The other boy has gone on a cruise to Manawatu but returns in three weeks. Will hope to get a (telegram next Wednesday). A McLean