Auckland December 7, 1859. My dear Mr. McLean, We were very glad to hear last mail that you had so far recovered as enabled you to leave Castle Point, at which place you must have undergone great suffering in an attack of Rheumatic fever, when you may be assured our sympathies were with you. Your letter to Papa came to hand on the morning of his departure to Coromandel, having been detained some time by bad weather and as he had not sufficient time to write to you he wished me to pen you a few lines relative to the Maori King movement in Waikato and adjacent Districts: - He found that in the course of his tour that their mere advice and counsel had often been treated with disrespect even by small tribes as those of Tauranga - and that the leaders knowing the excitement they have caused in distant quarters would gladly retrace their steps if they could do so without shame. Notwithstanding he thiaks they will still remain energetic in their own way in the vicinity of the Waikato until such time as a Government Officer who will be appointed and will take the lead in all matters without respect of party. The Bay of Plenty people are decidedly averse to the King movement. In passing through the Waikato he was treated with great respect by both parties and was requested by old Te Whero whero to return and afford them general instruction. On a whole he was greatly pleased with the state of the Natives and thinks the position which the Government have lately assumed towards them and their obstructive pretentions has been very beneficial to both races. Mr. Halse left yesterday for Waikato when he will be able to obtain more recent information. The weather here is excessively hot. Believe me to be in haste, Your sincere friend, Hanson Turton.