and should not lose any time in securing them by hook or by crook. There is no use for us to let our living slip away from us without a strugal. Sheep on thirds if wanted can be got plenty. I was offered 2000. I s[h]ould take them as Mr Lowrey said look at Tuke on the best run in the country and commenced without a sheep and now he has 2000 and sold 1000. All his own, all that is wanted is country and we should not let the plains go if we can get all the old boundaries. What is £252 a year when you can save nearly one half of it in sheepherds. My dear brother do not be blind to your own interest and mine for if you do not want them I can manage them myself and make money out of them with sheep on thirds. Alex told me he did not want them whatever he may say when he has seen you. I will take them all in my name, or between Alex & me, so that you will be clear of all censure. I will not say any more but will begin last month diary. All here join me in love and affection to you all. Your affectionate brother A J McLean Thursday 1 Went to the port with cart for the trees. Met Alex & Catherine at the fut of the plain coming home. All well. Left the bullocks plowing padock. 1 man digging ground for trees. Friday 2 Got to the port and picked up the trees ready for coming home. Found them in a very carless state in Mr Fitzgerrald's yard after him promising to see to them. Saturday 3 Left the port with the trees for home. Got to Omahu and stayed there all night. Sunday 4th Got home with the cart and found them all well at home but Alex complains of a cold. Monday 5 Very cold. Self and man planting out trees out in a good place. Put the gig together. Did not find the bullocks. Tuesday 6 Employed plowing. Self & man planting out trees. Planted 50 pines and 30 oaks. Baker cook went to the doctor. Jack cooking in his place. Sending the bullocks after fire wood. Self and man planting trees. Planted 60 blue gums & 60 oaks.