Camp Puketapu 5 Nov. 1864. My dear McLean, There is a report that we are to be disbanded which is probably true, I hear that you have made large purchases of land at the Wairoa and also the Russell reserve and Tukapau are under offer. As I intend to resign my appointment here as soon as I can get some other employment, I cannot stand having a boy put over my head. The Wairoa being Govt.land might alter my views as regards your king offer of the R.M. of that district. But I would much prefer any appointment nearer Napier if such should become vacant I shall be in town next week and should much like to hear your opinion of the new purchases and take your advise as to whether I had better resign at once or not, as I am heartily sick of this monotonous and long life. Yours faithfully, Edmund Tuke.