Auckland 12th Jany. 1874 Dear Mr. McLean I have been very ill for two or three days, and have to write this in bed -- the Doctor says I have had a very bad attack of English Cholera -- I have been wishing for some time to write and let you know what is doing here in reference to our old Province -- Of course you are aware that Sheehan has for some time past been working on the minds of the Hawkes Bay Natives he has one of them here (a relation of Karaitiana) who sends all his telegrams and writes all his letters to the Napier Natives, or rather signs what is written by Sheehan -- so that his name cannot appear -- I do not know whether you are aware of having offended Alley who used to reside on the Meanee Flats, he is now living at Hikutaia (Upper Thames) I have heard him make some bitter remarks in reference to your policy. Sheehan has got hold of him, and obtained some information relative to lands which he says you assisted Mr.Maney and others to obtain. I am brought officially very much in contact with Mr. Sheehan in reference to Immigration, and I intend to make use of my eyes during these interviews -- he draws cheques on the Union Bank against the Hawkes Bay Fund Acct. which I think shows that H.Russell or some other of that party provides the funds -- Whatever news I find out will be in reference to some of those interested but your name will never be mentioned. I have found out that Sheehan has the half caste girl a relation of Renatas who ran away from Wellington last session, I have told Scully all about it. I remain, Yours faithfully Edward L. Green