J.M. Hall to William Mackinnon. Difficult getting news about William Mackinnon in India and reports of invasion. Discussion of failing of probationary manager - possible introduction of departmental reports, easily possible with such a large staff. Dr McDougall matter and Trustees agreement to interest payments. List of C & B Co. existing and projected steamers dealt with. Contracts Bombay-Karachi, Calcutta-Bombay (with Govt. subsidies) approved; dubious Karachi-Bushire. Steamer matters- "Baltics" repairs question of "Burmah" for China. Financial points - more frequent remittances needed to keep co-directors happy; Matheson plain-cloth deal acceptable if for the lot; arranged £10,000 credit chartered Bank of India. £200 settlement out of court agreement against Jas.Baines Co. Rumours regarding Victoria Marine. Details regarding new contract J.M.H. arranged delivering coals and cargo to Calcutta - nothing better available. American blockade expected to end soon; settlement of "our difficulty" with Am. Govt, should reach William Mackinnon before JMH. Possible purchase of 2,000 acre estate (12/- acre)- readable names seem Scottish. Note about Hyslop letter rescinded in letter's preamble.