Hobson Street Monday 24th My dear Donald I have not written to you as Robert has been writing. We were glad to have your letter yesterday and to hear that you are still up country where I hope you will be able to stay for some time longer. We were very much pleased with your speeches, and what you said about the past was most telling done in good style and well chosen words. Nothing could have been better. I was so glad and so was Robert. Inclosed is a note from Mr Jydie which I think represents the general feeling I am glad to tell you that Mr Hart is realy keeping well and at his office every day and in bright good spirits. Dr Grace was quite proud of your telegram. It is really wonderful how you always think of doing the right thing. My ancle is still troublesome and I can do but very little with it yet. It is no small trial to me to be obliged to keep in the house so much. Douglas came back I think sooner than he needed to. We did not expect him till about now and a while longer at the station would have been good for him and there has not been much office work doing with so many holidays. I hope you see a good deal of Archy. Poor old fellow I shall never forget his walking from Napier to Hastings and home the same night. Very few men would have done it. I am afraid the government party will not be so strong when they meet but I daresay a good many will go over by that time. I am glad to see that J S MacFarlane has got in this time. From the bit of newspaper you will see what a narrow escape George Hart and family had. With my love to Archy and yourself I am your aff. sister Catherine Hart