Westoe, Marton 21st Nov. 72 My Dear McLean I was very sorry to hear that you were unwell, but hope that change of scene and rest will soon restore. The work of last Session was enough to kill any one. I am only recovering from the worry now that I am out of sight and hearing of it. I have not much news here. My tame Ngatiraukawa, Pitama tells me that a good many of the Waikanae and Coast Natives are going to Taranaki - and among them Wi Tako and Parata - to Iwi there. He is going also himself being I beleive Ngatiawa on mother's side. Old Rawiti of Kakariki was here yesterday. They all seem in good humour. I was expecting the Governor here on Wednesday, but from a tele. I got today I infer he is appointed to Victoria; he still however talks of coming up for a day or two. Halcombe has encouraging Telegrams from Col. Fielding. I know too well by experience what a bore patronage and promotion are. People however won't let me alone, but think if I cannot give appointments away I can influence those who can. I enclose a letter from Mrs. Riddiford about Captn.Humphrey, who is engaged to her daughter Mary. I can't conscientiously press his claims, as I always thought we had too many Colonels and Adjutants, and if I were in this Govt could not but concur in the reductions. Nevertheless if anything else should turn up, he might have your sympathy on the young lady's account, as the relative of old Dr. Evans, one of our earliest Colonists, and perhaps the most influential originator of New Zealand Colonization we ever had. Another applicant is Noake who is very anxious to be spared the necessity of resigning the Commission he holds in the Constabulary. Though he will do it if required. As it does not involve pay, I would hope you might see your way to let him retain the Commission unattached, if such a course if practicable. The remaining case, wonderful to relate, is a request that you will promote the applicant. There has been a row among the Clerks in the R.M's office at Wanganui, and it is expected that Baddely will have to go. Edwards has suggested, or will suggest, R.Ward our Clerk at Marton as his successor. Ward would prefer staying here; and he is quite the right man in the right place. But he has only £150 a year, and his berth is no sinecure. Could you let him remain where he is and kindly give him a small increase? He really deserves it. His salary is I think on the Native estimates. He has been four years here; is on a good footing with the Natives and will up in general Court work, and is very trustworthy. He has not asked me to intercede for him, but the subject came up in conversation about the chance of hisbeing sent to Wanganui. Did you get things arranged about the Manawatu Rangitikei reserves with McDonald? I have not seen him here nor heard anything about it. Hoping to hear that you are better Believe me Yours very faithfully William Fox