17 December 1863 Maraekakaho My dear Donald We have got on very well with the shearing up till today. It showered last night and will stop us part of this day only for that we would be done with the ewes tommorrow. There is shorn now 6793 and we have branded 77 bales. Alex is afraid that some of the sheep is missing. By the number that came in last night I find that a good many is out yet but I cannot say the number till they are shorn. Douglas is a great deal better. I hope your influenzia is better. Alex and I have it also and a number of the people are complaining. The Dr is here as yet but there is nothing done between him & Alex as yet. As near as I can judge their will be from 700 to 800 to shear but I hope more. You cannot tell so well with the lambs being among them. I hope to see you soon. Kinross appeared pleased with the wool and I hope he may gave a good price. 1/4 1/2 or 1/5 would be very good. Neil Walker left with 29 bales yesterday. Yours always affectionately Archibald John McLean PS. Kate & I got on very well coming home but slow on a/c of the fold so it was as well you did not come. A J McL Wethers, hoggets & dry ewes shorn 4755 Ewes shorn 2038 6793