Government House, New Zealand. Wellington July 17, 1872 My dear Mr. McLean, I have received your note, explaining that it was through forgetfulness that you did not inform me, when you spent at Govt. House the evening of the day on which we left Auckland, that you had then written an order for the dismissal of the Dungates. In no other Colony would a Minister dream of removing servants employed at the Govt. House without the previous knowledge and consent of the Governor; and I am sure that you will feel that neither the Ministry, the Parliament nor the public here would desire to see a different practice established in New Zealand. In this instance, moreover, I was placed in a false position, and subjected to inconvenience, as I gave directions about several matters to be seen to after my departure by the Dungates, in utter ignorance that you had already issued orders for their immediate discharge. I never heard of their dismissal until after my arrival at Wellington, and then only indirectly through a letter from Mrs. Dungate to one of my servants here. I know that Dr. Pollen does not like Dungate; and I need scarcely say that I have no wish to shield misconduct in him or in any one else. But it is only fair to observe that Mr. Vogel appointed him Messenger to the Resident Minister at Auckland nearly three years ago, and that he was so well satisfied with him that in last May (only two months ago) he confirmed this appointment, and raised the pay, in consideration of the work done at Govt. House by Mrs. Dungate, a very respectable person, who had been employed as nursemaid there for a length of time by Lady Bowen and therefore knew the furniture etc. - and was well fitted to be placed in charge after our departure. Moreover, Col. Gorton reports that nothing can be better than the care taken of the Govt. property by the Dungates during the past year. However, I shall say no more on this subject, except that I expect my consent to be asked on similar occasions in future, I am glad to receive your explanation, and am very sensible of the general courtesy shown by you and your colleagues to myself and my family. I am, my dear Mr. McLean, Yours faithfully, G. F. Bowen The Honble. D. McLean, C.M. G.