November 30th. 1860. My dear McLean, I have received your letter, and read it with great pain. The Bill might doubtless be better than it is; but your refusal to take a seat in Council removes all hopes of success. Without you, it will want the confidence, both of the Assembly, and of the natives. Let me ask you to sleep over this one night more, before you decide. The Commodore and I are going out to see you to-morrow. He wants to say good-bye, and I, to see how you are. I think it would be better, in every way, to forward your protest to the Secretary of State (in terms as strong as you please), and conclude by saying this if (after he has considered what you say) he still thinks it right to recommend the Bill for Her Majesty's consent, you will not refuse to assist the Government, even though you do not approve the plan proposed. Your refusal will oblige me to ask Smith to take a seat in the Council; which will deprive the Native Office of his valuable services. Ministers will have no alternative but to apply to Fenton. Would you aid in bringing this about? Believe me, my dear McLean, yours sincerely, (Signed) T. Gore Browne. P.S. Your letter in answer to Hadfield shall appear in the Appendix to my despatch, which is to be printed. I hope it will be in time for the mail. I sent it to Bell for that purpose, the moment I had read it. To:- Donald McLean Esq.