New Plymouth Oct. 11th, 1852 My dear Sir, On the 6th inst. Dorset shipped four boxes to your address, care of Messrs.Bethune and Hunter, per schooner Matilda, but owing, to some discrepancy between Dorset and Watt they did not appear in the clearance --- indeed until the last boat came ashore I was kept in a state of uncertainty as to whether they would be allowed to go or not, and stationed a man on the beach to take charge of them in the event of their being brought ashore --- I trust however they have been safely received and will take particular care that no inconvenience or annoyance shall again arise on so simple a point as occasioned this explanation. Mr. Cooper and my brother left for Mokau on the 1st inst. and have not yet returned, but I hear the natives there desire to sell by instalments as the most profitable --- the Awakino block which comprises about 10 miles sea frontage appears to be very tika indeed, not so however with the Northern bank of the river Mokau, and the inland district embracing the coal and limestone claimed by the Kuri --- he and Taruni I hear head the opposition which rather puzzles me but more hereafter. Hoping you found Mrs. McLean well on your return I remain, My dear Sir, Faithfully yours H. Halse D. McLean Esq.