Wellington May 16th. 1862. My dear Sir, I regret exceedingly that owing to a misconception on ray part that long ere this you would be in Auckland, I have addressed you there since the April Steamer, and consequently my letters both private ones as well as official await you there. As perhaps however you have them before this reaches you I will not recapitulate the Contents enclosed is a copy of a letter from Halse (written I am informed by the Col. Sec. which as the grievance is modified to a certain extent I have returned an answer which I also send a copy of. The Chief reason I have for so doing "inter nos" is that the winter season is so far advanced that to the south all field work is closed for the winter and as the next meeting of the General Assembly will no doubt produce great official changes, Something may turn up. The tone I have adopted in my letter does not make me lose ground, especially after what I wrote to Fitz. I regret to learn (a report) that Hay Searancke and Preece are to have their conge. Is it true. I sent some letters for my friends to you should you be able they will be most happy I am sure to see you. Your horse has been forwarded to you by the Steamer I believe. The Governor is here but as I have been absent at Te Awaiti during the past month an introduction today on the beach and a few passing words is all, I only got Halse's letter today. I see the Dr. in the morning and will open my letter again if anything transpires. I see Govett is gone back to Auckland with his tail between his legs. I do not hear the Natives here have been much excited or delighted by the sight of H.E. who refuses public demonstrations (supposed to be bottled up till the Genl. Assembly meets here) I am divided between two opinions yet, but if I can't stand my ground I go. I should be glad of your candid opinion of my course of action, I saw Master Buller R.M. today who has returned in duplicate to the Scene of his future labours he appears well satisfied with himself. Our friend the sympathiser has retired to Masterton having taken Collins's house at Te ori ori pro. tem. I am afraid his sympathies are contracting with his financial affairs, Grimstone has been relieved from his duties in the Customs under very fishy circumstances perhaps you have heard, I am very sorry for his family. I see my old friend J.H. Wilson is Provincial Surveyor at Auckland now. As it is past 12 p.m. please excuse more at present and with kindest remembrances to Douglas and yourself in which Mrs. Fraser joins, Believe me My dear Sir, Yours sincerely, Malcolm Fraser. Friday 16, 10½ a.m. I have just seen Featherston who informs me that as he does not require any assistance in Land Purchasing he cannot agree to any appointment such as is stated by Halse and that if I accept such appointment lcan only rank as District Surveyor, unless some other concession is made shan't accept it.