. Colonial Defence Office December 14th. 1868 Sir, His Honor, the Superintendent of Hawke's Bay, having officially brought under the notice of the Defence Minister, the valuable services performed by you in the late Expedition, - not only in volunteering to take the ''St. Kilda's'' guns to the front, but ''the perseverance and skill with whivh in an incredibly short time you had them placed in position, and men able to work them'', - I am instructed to convey to you the thanks of the Government, and the great satisfaction they feel at receiving so favourable report of one of their most trusted Officers. I have the honour ro be Sir, Your most obedient servant (Signed) G.V.S. Haughton Acting Under-Secretary. To:- Capt. Fox. III s.s. ''St. Kilda.''