May 27, 1870 The Political feeling at the Bay is strong against Carleton, and I am told that he has not a shadow of a chance - McLeod is not liked personally by many - but they would rather support him than vote for the other - C. is making himself busy about public works of the District but it is all seen through - Hone Peti says that the hook is well bted but there is no reason why they should not nibble off the bait without swallowing the hook. My poor old father has written a letter on the subject of a superannuation allowance which under the act of 1858 he is justly entitled to - And how it is he has not got it I cannot conceive. He has served 10 years and five months and ought to have got £125 per annum - He is now on his 73 year and in the course of nature but a few years to enjoy the bounty of the Government. I trust that you will see the justice of his claim - I do not trouble you much about my private friends - simply because I feel a shrinking from thrusting my relatives under your notice - But if you see an opening for my brother Marsden - whom I am sure you would like if you knew him - he would be thankful. He would make a good officer and has had some experience with the natives. He is liked everywhere -was with Gorst in the Waikato, but left the service in disgust. Mr. Fox will remember him and Sir George Grey will not forget his plain speaking. H. T. C.