Auckland April 12th 1866 My dear McLean I arrived here on the 30th ult. having experienced a fair passage and just escaped the gale which came on next day - I am sorry to say that I have not been able to arrange about the refund of your advance to Keene - He had gone to Kaipara before my arrival here, but I shall not lose sight of the matter. The certificates for the Papakura and Hikato to blocks have been issued and were sent to Wellington by the mail of the 8th inst. - So that I have no doubt the grants will be sent to the Registrar of your Province without delay. Most of the plans in the other cases have to be returned to the surveyors for correction. By the last mail from the south I got a private letter from Col. Russell expressing regret that I did not go on to Wellington from Napier, and, curiously enough, adding that he sees no necessity for my going there He refers to the Bay of Plenty as my "late district" - thinks it unnecessary for me to return there and has instructed Clarke to take charge and make reductions forthwith - I have written officially in reply to the letter you saw disclaiming any intention of vacating my office except at the expressed wish of the Govt. Sir G. Grey has returned from the Bay of Plenty - He went on as far as Tarawera and had several meetings with the Arawa which appear to have gone off well - He is now at Te Kawau where the "Eclipse" is to pick him up to day on her way to Kawhia - I do not anticipate much good from a visit there - Rewi is, from all accounts, as obstinate as ever and threatens to kill any pakehas who may venture into Ngatimaniapoto territory. The Whakatane and Opotiki murderers have been sentenced but there is still a point raised on some technical ground upon which an attempt will be made to set aside the proceedings - What bunglers the Maoris must think us! Excuse this hasty note - I have several other letters to write for the mail - With very kind remembrances to Miss Anabella believe me faithfully yours Thos. H. Smith D. McLean Esquire