June 30 1852 My dearest Pussy I got to Bolton's last night, had a snug supper & bed, thought frequently of little pettish, went to sleep, got up in good time, and now I am at Waikanae going on quietly on my journey. I feel quite at ease about you this time. You seem in better health than I have ever known you. Papa is always kind & indulgent to you. Your own old husband does not treat you half so well hence the difficulty of hereafter inducing you to go to the bush, but I know you are becoming more obedient & more affectionate every day, therefore I have no fear when the time comes, if ever it should, that you will be rebellious. Take care of yourself my own pet, read your Bible, pray to God to preserve you in health & strength, do not make more beds or attend to heavy work, read daily, never be out after sunset, write a journal daily for your own Donald, and make Papa as comfortable as you can. Above all put your trust in God not by mere formal prayer to Him but in reality and in the full sincerity of your heart. Remember dearest that God surveys our inmost thoughts that we are ever present to Him and that we should always gratefully acknowledge His goodness, His forgiveness and mercy towards us. My cold is nearly gone. Your new flannel is a great treasure to me. Forgive your Donald's harshness to you before leaving and believe me my own dear Douglas to be your own affectionate & devoted husband Donald McLean