"Wonga Wonga". Auckland, 15th July, 1857. My Dear McLean, The Steamer is off in a few minutes --- on her way round again by the East Coast. You will be astonished to hear she is sold to the Wellington people for £3800! I wish them joy of her. I shall be glad when we get the money and enable us to pay her debts the Shareholders will get nothing! she is by far too expensive for the Ahuriri trade. I have received no letters or advices of any kind from your friend at Clutha --- and I am at a loss what to think of the sheep runs at the Bluff --- if you do not return here "Wonga" please let me hear from you. The Nelson gold diggings are going ahead and by October next I think they will be producing a good deal --- Upwards of 4000 Oz. have been got since the commencement of the diggings --- all Eyes here are directed to Coromandel and I am satisfied that in spring if the Land is acquired there will be diggers and a produce of gold there the Maories are demanding £10,000 for the Coromandel Lands and I believe the Responsible Ministers are prepared to comply with the demand --- so far Well. Bell has gone over this week to settle some of the old Land Claims. Let me know about the Hapuku's vessel (Erin) She is doing no good at present in fact the very reverse. She is deteriorating every day. Captn. Bevan would not advance upon his offer and has gone to Sydney to purchase a Schooner --- I question much if £600 can now be got for her. Those who have examined her with a view of purchasing say that it will take at the least £200 to put her to rights. New sails, some new rigging and a new Boat are all required --- please send me definite instructions about her disposal, also please write Mr. Smith (in your office) on the subject and I will consult with him. Fenton is here and he and Carleton are drawing up a code of Maori Laws for the Governor I am afraid his Excellency will be humbugged by them: the Governors popularity does not increase. The 58th Regt. are likely to leave New Zealand in about 3 months. I am glad to say Mrs. Grahame had a son on the 6th Inst. and both are doing well. Whitaker lost his youngest Child last week from Croop, the winter has been severe, and still continues so. Nothing new about the Maori King Movement. There will soon be another General Provincial Election, a frightfull curse to the Province. Yours in haste, Very sincerely, Wm. Grahame.