that Bells election for Mataura is very doubtful - also that Donald Reid is likely to run Macandrew very hard for the Superintendency and not unlikely to beat him. Friend Bunny too is very vigorous in denouncing your Native Policy - Flour - Sugar etc. I suppose he means mischief. Stafford is taking a very judicious course, he has been about a good deal lately in the Middle Island, but he keeps out of any public exhibition, altho he influences the elections - he could not play his Cards better - Our Hawkes Bay Provincial elections come on directly Writs being expected by next Steamer - I shall agree to be re-elected Superintendent with a view of holding office through the next Session of the Assembly as it may assist in Public Works arrangements - I have just received a Telegram from Hart enquiring if he shall retain the Attorney General for the Mangateretere case. I am replying no. I dont see any case to take to Court - The only question is to whom shall the rent be paid. I believe paying it into Court will be necessary - You had better think about raising it as it is a pretty large sum in these hard times -