Letter from G. Eyre, to Donald McLean, dated 8th. June 1849. Government House 8th. June 1849. My dear Sir, In acknowledging your letter of the 5th. I have only to thank you for it, and to say that I wish you to do whatever may be most agreeable to yourself, as regards going up the river. I had hoped we should have had the pleasure of seeing you at the Ball; but if not, I trust you will enjoy your excursion; and at least, I shall be much interested in your Report of the meeting. As soon as you return, The Manawatu Question will occupy your attention for some time; but I anticipate that you will overcome all the difficulties there. The Hawke's Bay natives, (around Ahuriri), have applied to the Government for some one to be sent to them, - offering to their lands; and Mr. Mantell was to have gone at once; but I have been obliged to detatch him again for a short time, to Akaroa. to mark out the Native Reserves in the French Block, - as we are now defining that. As soon as he comes back, he will proceed to Hawke's Bay; and if that district can be acquired, the Wairarapa follow. I shall always be glad to hear from you, when you have time to write; though I must apologise for my own short replies, as I am much occupied whilst the Council are sitting, and am obliged to neglect all my own private correspondence altogether. Believe me, faithfully yours (Signed) G. Eyre. To: Donald McLean.