Raglan August 20th 1868 Dear Sir, In pondering over my affairs, it has struck me suddenly that you(being on the spot) not only could, but would befriend me. Since I last had the pleasure of seeing you, matters have gone on pretty quietly with me. Sir George Grey wished his friend Major McGregor and subsequently Captn. Hamilton, military men, to act as N. Magistrates for this District, but as he requested me to attend to the natives, in my medical capacity, at the same sum, I felt the change as no particular grievance. I had previously received £200 a year, but this owing to two separate retrenchments was reduced to £100 but with that, and the £120 as Coastwaiter (?) and a promise of £10 as Registrar amounting altogether to £230 I got away contentedly and well. On the 19th of June last I rec'd a letter from the Customs stating that the office of Coastwaiter here was "abolished" and attached to the letter a form (which I filled in and forwarded by the first post in July) relative to my time of service, age etc. etc. with a view to compensation for abolition of office. I need not suggest to you how little a person with my income and large family can be prepared for such a disastrous change --- or what a "crippler" such a sudden curtailment of the Major help of a small income must be to the Govt. employee --- fortunately for me my debts are not very heavy and with what is left me I hope to face the world honestly. I need not point out to you how disheartening it is that after nearly 15 years service, and through anxious times, I am now the recipient up to 65 less than when I entered the service in Jany. 1854!! In returning my form I made application for a small annual retiring allowance, estimated according to the receipts of the last 3 years and I hope and believe that I have a claim under the 3rd section of the Civil Service Amendment Act of 1861, having been 14 1/2 years in Service, and shall be, if living, 57 on the 3rd of Oct. next and I have applied for this obvious reason, that such small annuity calculated on my last 3 years would send me the necessaries, and some of the comforts of life whereas if estimated a year or two hence on the £110 it would be insufficient to keep me from being a burthen upon my family. I would be very thankful if you would be so good as to ascertain. 1. whether my papers reached their destination safeky. 2. If my "doom" be determined, or when it be so to drop me aline to ease my suspense. I beg to remain, Dr. Sir, Yours most respectively, Wm. Harsant The Honble, Donald McLean, WELLINGTON.