western side of Rotorua Lake.- I was afraid at one time that it was a deadlock. But I think we shall get on now. In the first place, they wanted us to buy a right of Road - this I would not hear of, and I argued the the matter so successfully that they were silenced. They asked £200 per mile (really a very low rate considering the work to be done). I told them that £100 or 130 was sufficient here again we came to a standstill. I then pressed for the survey to go on after some discussion this was allowed and I promised them I would make a compromise for clearing the forest and forming the Road at £150 per mile but that it must remain in abeyance till it was approved by you. I told them that I expected a good scolding for my being so "Ngawari". They were very much pleased and told me to let them know as soon as I have an answer from you - £150 per mile for a road where all the cuttings are to be 16 ft. wide at least - and a gradient of 1 to 10 extremely reasonable - but to help us along in future, I hope you will make it appear a great favor I have considered the matter well and I do not think we could do better, both economically and politically. Let me know at once please - write to Auckland. I am quite alive to the fact that this District requires energetic supervision and as far as lies in my individual power I do all I can - I wish I could do more. The flesh is weak altho' the spirit is willing. I am very sorry to say that I am not able to do as I used - this pain on my head is very trying to me, and I am rather anxious about it. Give me some assistance - whene is Hamlin? I cannot go on as I am. The Arawas are crying out and he would relieve me of all matters of detail. You know I am not afraid