New Plymouth 19th. August 1850. Dear Sir, The late wreck and loss of life, has taken up most of our time this last fortnight, and a pretty piece of business it was altogether. The Coroner, however, brought the jury to a very proper verdict, as you will likely see by the Southern papers. The disputed boundary near Puketotara, was arranged by the Company's agent sending a surveyor out there. E Waka has ceded the point about the fencing, and awaits your answer to his letter about the kumera garden on Major Lloyd's section. Medland has been absent from duty since the 8th. inst. and I heard from Dr. Wilson yesterday, the cause of his illness is intemperance. It is right you should know this, and also, that while confined to his room, he is receiving from the New Plymouth Friendly Society 15/- a week! and when able to walk about 10/-: These allowances cease when the member is able to resume his usual avocations. This shameful abuse of an excellent Society will be brought forward at a proper opportunity, when it is to be hoped that some stringent enquiries will in future be made, when any of their members are reported sick. Last month, Johnson was absent a fortnight, receiving 15/- a week, a sum likely enough to keep a member of the Police Force in his room longer than there is any occasion for, especially as the regular pay is still going on. My fingers are cold, and I am hard pressed for time. I remain Sir, very sincerely yours (Signed) H. Halse. When do you intend to pop in and take dinner with us? To:- D. McLean Esq.