Wellington Oct. 17 1853 My dear McLean, I take advantage of the native returning with letters to send you a line. Gollan has resigned his seat and I have come forward as a candidate for the vacancy in the representation of the Wairarapa and Hawkes Bay in the Provincial Council. I don't know whether there is likely to be another candidate, but a word from you would be useful, and if you have no one else you wish to support I should be greatly obliged by you mentioning my intention to stand to any settlers you may see, and asking for their support. I propose to publish a short address directly and send copies round to the Electors. I am very disappointed at the prospect of people bringing in Scrip on the 20th. I thought Barton had fairly promised you he would bring in £500 for his station, whereas he is going to deposit 600 acres of scrip instead and Revans also will buy the Huangarua with Scrip. However, there is no near about money, for there is no doubt that whatever is wanted by you for the completion of your purchases will be forthcoming by the Provincial Government in case my money receipts should be short. I was very glad to hear that Te Hapuku had come down, and met you in the valley. I trust that not only his arrival will smooth your way for the remaining acquisitions, but that you will be saved the overland journey to Ahuriri. I had a ride in the van with your boy the other day, he has gone to the Taitai for a day or two's change of air. The young laird was skylarking with me and his nurse all the way up and in high glee. Can you oblige me by despatching the enclosed to Smith, who I am anxious should get it at the earliest moment. Hoping you are quite well I am Dear Maclean, Yours very truly, F.D. Bell.