Govt. House, Wellington. Jany. 24th, 1866 My dear MacLean, I have been put in much difficulty regarding relieving the detachment of military settlers at the Wairoa - as I have been absolutely discarded by the Military Authorities and have no person to whom I can give an order - whilst from home I am seriously reprimanded for interfering to the extent I do in Military matters. But as there is no hope of my getting the removal made unless I give the order direct to the officer comdg. the Forces at Napier, I have now taken upon myself to do this - for I feel that you have done so much, and have done it so well, that you merit every support that can be given you. I hope that your health still continues good - and that you have had no return of the illness from which you suffered. truly yours, G. Grey