Letter from H.T. Kemp, to Donald McLean, dated 4th. September 1854. Auckland 4th. September 1854. My dear McLean, Although it is but a day or two only since you cleared the Heads, I cannot refrain from sending you a few lines; and in order to give you the fullest particulars. I enclose a half-sheet of Saturday's paper, from which you will gather most of the in reference to the . The Debate lasted from 5 o'clock p.m. until midnight; and was one perhaps of the most exciting scenes which have ever been witnessed in New Zealand; which may never occur again. The speeches of Munro, Sewell, Fitzgerald, and Weld, were master-pieces of eloquence; combined with sound reasoning. Munro was as cool as a cucumber the whole time. The Defeat, on the other side, was most complete; and our friend, Forsaith, was completely put "hors de combat"; his colleagues having scarcely a word to say for themselves, or render him any assistance. They, in fact, . By the next opportunity you shall have the paper with the different speeches. People here are astonished at the and of certain parties. The Estimates came on immediately. Our Office matters have gone on. The monies named by you have been paid. Captain Russell has come in, and is going off again in a few days, to survey the Southern Blocks at Whaingaroa. E. White accompanies him. Johnson goes off in a day or two alone, having rested his leg. The steamer is expected hourly, and the Members return by her. The "Wm. Denny" has arrived, but brings no fresh European news. I think you were quite right not to have returned, judging from the wind. Entertain great hopes that you very soon reached Taranaki. I shall wait very impatiently to hear your proceedings. Replies have been received, to your Official applications, in reference to the money; and they very handsomely say that I can have the £500; or as much more, as we may require. You will observe that the amended Address by the House is very strong; and the Petition to the Queen seems to have put the old Official Executive in somewhat of an unpleasant position; both as far as the people may regard them, and how they may stand with the Authorities at Home. Believe me, yours very faithfully (Signed) H.T. Kemp. To:- Donald McLean.