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English (ATL)

Waikanai
9 Sept. 56.


My dear McLean,

I was in town when I last received your Dispatch, and delivered the enclosures myself.

I suppose the late appointment of RM at Whanganui would astonish you, I don't think he will get fat on £100 a year.

I have been much annoyed at a circumstance which occurred last week --- it appears private Selwyn who has lately been discharged at his own request on acct. of ill health etc. has been complaining in town of my abusing and over-working him at Waikanae, and a few days previous to his discharge Domett sent for him from this station, and gave him a sealed letter to His Excellency who had him examined by Kemp. All this occurred without one word being mentioned to me on the subject --- two days ago Selwyn's statement was sent me for explanation which of course I have not much difficulty in doing, the fellow complained of being obliged to cut firewood, carry water etc. --- this is quite correct but it is not better to employ the men occasionally when off duty than allow them to sink into lazy habits such as card playing, lounging about the Pah etc. But what I most complain of is the low dirty undehand sort of way of the proceedings. At one time I had some idea of resigning as the above will no doubt have a bad effect in the force in general. I have attended to your suggestion about the building of a new temporary Barrack at Whanganui and the erection of sign Boards at the ferries which perhaps you will have the goodness to inspect. His Excellency and Lady intended to have visited Nelson in the steamer but as Sir George is dayly expected, Mr. Eyre does not like to run the risk of being absent. Domett has however gone.

Mrs. D. is not very well but I suppose she will be worse before she is better.


Ever yours faithfully,
D.S. Durie.