Letter from H.A. Wilson, to D. MacLean Esq. dated 28th. September 1851. New Plymouth, 28th. September 1851. My dear Son, The receipt of your wedding cards confirmed what we had heard from all quarters, excepting yourself; but as we have long considered you past all hope, it would be useless to scold you now for your slyness. We must only trust to Mrs. MacLean keeping you in better order for the future. We are glad to find that you once more think of visiting New Plymouth; and you judge rightly in supposing that your old "mother" will give a hearty welcome to the additional member you bring to her family; even your undutiful self will be doubly welcome to your old seat in the chimney corner. Pat is making a new stool for the occasion. There are so many reports about your coming and not coming, that it is hardly possible to know which to believe. Don Pedro has written you a long letter; consequently has given you all the news. All our good folks have been in wondering astonishment at the exposure of the King's. Master Sammy deserved all he got; he brought it all on himself. I, for my part, always thought that Miss King was a very different person; but I now find that she is a fool, as the rest of them. Mrs. Campbell, alias "The Lady of the Lake", often writes to me. They appear to be very comfortable in their new Castle. She never let an opportunity pass of praising little Wanganui, and its great and daily improvements; and the Duke, as often, has a sly hit at the climate of Taranaki. I shall keep all the little bits of scandal until you come "home". I hope you will make my compliments acceptable to Mrs. MacLean; and with kind regards, in which Pat sincerely joins me, ever believe me to be your sincere friend, and attached old Mother, (Signed) H.A. Wilson. To,- D. MacLean.