Napier August 6th, 1871 My dear McLean, The Ashley is due in the morning and I have lots to write you about but little time to do so in. The confounded Bush purchase is still dragging on but we are gaining ground daily, it is terrible wearisome work though I fancy it will be finished all right at the Waipawa Meeting on Tuesday. That scamp Karaitiana is at the bottom of all the mischief I think he fears when this purchase is concluded he will lose his influence over those Natives who form a large section of his party. Purvis Russell is working hard against us but I dont think Lord Henry has been lately. They hate us so much that even success in a matter they are so largely interested in is gall and wormwood to them - they are two infernal sweeps of that there is no doubt. I advised you by Telegram Wilson had served a notice of action for libel on the Herald for the article about Hapuku's Trust Deed etc. It is not believed they will dare go on with the case as the exposure of Lord Henry and Wilson wd. be so disgraceful to them - still they threaten to do so.