Hamilton 15 March 1871 My dear Mr. McLean, I enclose a "Memo" from Mr. Fox, chief clerk, for your consideration, posting Sub Inspector Newland to this district, but have not taken him on the strength here, waiting for higher authority. I have three working parties on the roads sixty men in all, one party between this and Ohaupo, one between Ohaupo and Alexandra, and the other in the Cambridge and Rangiawhia swamp - The Highway Boards have rendered me every assistance - The weather at present is everything but favorable. I have discharged two men already and there are more in store for the same distinction. Can I replace them if I can find really good men - All quiet in the neighbourhood of Alexandra. Ross has been out scouting, and can find no tracks of natives about - Would you kindly jog St.John's memory about the Forger in Auckland. There are men capable of doing all Shoeing and Blacksmith work that is needed - and would be more satisfactory than the contract work, which is only so so - Believe me, Sincerely yours, William C. Lyon P.S. I wish to ask whether you would entertain the idea of a contingent allowance for doing Paymaster. In the Imperial Service every Captain of a Company is allowed so much per head monthly. Now I have to pay every month some £2000, keep the mens accounts, and responsible for their correctness, and it is really an arduous undertaking besides my other duties. Scattered as the detachments are over the district - You must not consider me a , but my expenses are heavy here, travelling about Hotel Bills etc. and besides have to pay House rent there being no accommodation for the officer commanding, tho all the other officers have quarters. W. C. L.