I dont think I should get on with Vogel. Certainly I could not have put up with what you and Fox did last session and I am sure you both made a great mistake in allowing him to take so complete a lead as he did. It has done Fox more harm than you and placed him in quite a wrong position. I say all this without having the least feeling against Vogel - quite the contrary. I like Vogel much - but I don't think I could work with him. With the experience I have of Fox's extreme consideration for others. I cannot understand Vogel having had the bad taste to push himself in front of such a man. I cannot tell you half the nasty things that are said but it is unquestionable that all New Zealand looks on Vogel as the Govt. and so so far as I can judge it will operate very materially against you, however it is not a pleasant subject only it is best both you and Fox should know what is said. I see Gisborne is to do the work of the Public Works Depart. for a time. I think Fox would have done it much better. Gisborne has no experience at all in the practical work of the Depart: and cannot for that reason administrate it well. I feel quite sure you will have a regular row in the Cabinet when the Commissioners come back. I had a letter by the last mail from Levin who is constantly with Featherstone and Bell and I gather Vogel is their bete noir. I was very much astonished