12 King William St. E. C. LONDON. 25 Nov. 1875 My dear McLean, I had a pleasant chat with Sir Julius at 64 Harley Street, he was looking wonderfully well. He said he had made up his mind to go out by the ''Somersetshire'' to leave Plymouth yesterday. I have not heard if he has been able to get away. I believe his whole time is devoted to N. Z. affairs. I have also seen Dr. Featherstone. H. Sewell came in whilst I was there looking very melancholy upon N. Z. Affairs. You know his way. Dr. Featherstone said my account was the best he had heard, and he said that I gave good reason for the views I held. I did not deny that the position of N. Z. would be greatly altered for a time if wool went down to old prices. I am however glad to inform you that the opening sales have been very firm. In New York - New Zealand wools could be obtained - at prices asked in the Colony. Dr. Grace goes on by the S. F. Mail, he will most likely be in Wellington before you get this. Sir George Bowen also goes from Canada by the same Mail. Yesterday I had the pleasure of a couple of hours chat with Sir Thomas Gore Brown. We had a quiet luncheon together, a pheasant and a Bottle of Champagne - he recounted the incidents of the Waitara and all the personages who figured on the scene at that time. He spoke most kindly of you. He did not like the missionaries. He is a very nice gentlemanly man - much liked here. A good many people would have been better pleased if the new form of Government for the provinces had come into operation at once - however it is satisfactory that you have succeeded so far. Kindly say to Mr. Bowen that I have been so busy at the Office that I have been unable to write him, but will do so next mail. With very kind regards Believe me Yours very faithfully, W. D. Carruthers The Hon. Sir Donald McLean, WELLINGTON. N. Z.