native leaves. If so will you write by him. You think there is any chance of your being here in time. I did not go to church yesterday. The roads were in such a state. I envy your good weather. It is so bad here. I am now going to scold you darling. Why was your last letter so short and so cold. It was not the same affectionate kind letter I wish to get from you. Surely you do not love me less since you returned to Taranaki. As you have so few opportunities of writing you should send me longer letters. I cannot tell you how often your poor pussy has sat writing at night when she would have been much better in bed only she could not allow an opportunity to pass. I will not scold you any more, however my own darling I shall punish you when you come home. Mrs Kirton has just come up to see me so I must conclude. Papa has sent a number of letters by the mail and he will write next week and