Auckland, 6 March, 1861. My dear Dr.Sinclair, I was very glad to hear from you from Christchurch and regret very much that I am not able to join you in some of your expeditions. The state of affairs here will not admit of my going south for some time more especially as there is some uneasiness about the Waikatos. I had a very pleasant cruise with the Governor to the Bay of Islands and Mongonui where matters are very quiet The visit was opportune and had a very excellent effect. Andrew has returned from the Bay and has improved his health by going there. Mr. Bruce has returned from his Australian tour. The Artillerymen landed yesterday they are a fine tall set of fellows. I have enough to do in keeping matters straight here at present, but I still trust we can confine the war to its present limits. Andrew is a neighbor of mine so that you will have a further inducement when you return to take a walk out on the Sundays. I expect the present ministry will not stand the late elections here have gone against them. I am sorry Moorhouse has not been returned. The governor is very well his last despatches from Newcastle contain an approval of proceedings more especially of the Conference and the mode in which it was conducted, he says the land league must be inflexibly resisted, the despatch is not made public. Earl Grey does not consider the present constitution suited for the Govt. of the two races I cordially agree with him. I am getting on with my official duties very smoothly in fact I have my own way to a great extent. I am sorry you did not see my sisters when at Wellington I wish one of them to go to Canterbury and when matters are more settled to come up here. Your people are all well, I saw Miss Sinclair shopping at Grahames a few days ago - Bell will give you all the news from here he is bound for Otago. I have little or no gossip for you this time Ghatty Atkins is engaged at last to young Anderson of the 14th. I intend shortly to have a large meeting of the Thames tribes near Waiheke on the main. The countenances of the Maories who frequent the town are becoming more flexible others however have a glooming look of resentment from loss of friends. I remain, My dear Dr. Sinclair, Yours sincerely, Donald McLean.