Auckland August 28th 1871. My dear Mr McLean I arrived here by "Lord Ashley on Friday night, I hope to be back to Tauranga early next week, although I am in a state of great tribulation - I came home to find my wife ill in bed of a malady which may terminate in worse than death - This and my not being very bright makes me miserable - I wish enough that you could see your way clear to establish my head quarters at Tauranga