Epsom Road June 19 /58 Dear Sir I Hopa Maka and party about the block of land they offer for sale to the Government it extends from the southern head of Mercury bay about two thirds of the way to Tairua a distance of from eight to ten miles being I should think about two miles deep I have no doubt but that they are the principle owners the reason that they wish to get a deposit on is that Hopa feels himself drawing near to his end and they wish him to distribute the money amongst them with his own hands they wish to have a deposit of £500 but I am of opinion that there are two reasons why so much should not be given first because we shall find that there be a few other claimants and secondly if so much is given now they will think the final payment too small but I think that £300 may be given to them with safety. I consider the block of land of great importance and think that it ought to be secured. I have the honor to be, Sir, Your most obedient servt. J. Preece To The chief Commissioner Land purchas department