31 May 1865 Glenorchy My dear Donald I was down at the station today and I find it is necessary for you to send an order to Alexr to allow the man and wife the up store place as it will not interfear with the publice. Alex has told them to keep the little end room but the man does not want that as it prevents him having any place for travilars. I was in a hurry today when their and did not look over the books but will do so some day soon. The wife as far as I can see is fit for a place of that kind. She is cleaning and getting it in order which it had much need of. I think that you should hurry Walker on with the timber for the other house for the sooner it is up the better as you can command 20/- per cent rent besides the other advantages in supplying it with provisions I mean meat as if any meatary [military?] settlers are to be stationed up this way it will help however I will bring you a plan for the house and have some understanding about it the first time I am down. Danvers was passing here and I send this by him with a paridise duck I shot when out today. I wished there was more of them. We were very sorry to hear of Mrs Barkley's death. It will be a heavey tryal for poor Mr B with the young children. I am sorry I have no eggs but the hens will soon begin to lay and I will safe them for you. I would have sent you some fresh butter but we will not churn till tommorrow. Alex came home and I was glad of it for I was afraid he would go on to Napier. I hope every thing will go smooth with you during the Councel. You might drive up or ride if you could to cool your head before you comence. A little change would do you a world of good but of course we must forgo that pleasure. Your affectionate brother Archibald John McLean