the exercise of the utmost diligence a long time probably not less than Two years will be absorbed in completing these works, and carying out the necessary arrangements to a successful issue - I refer to the inevitable duration of this work because of the influence it exercises over my movements and that of my family whom for reasons of economy as well as other reasons I must remove here. The duties that fall upon me being in effect those of Acting Chief Surveyor as well as Agent or Commissioner for settlement of native questions in connection with these West Coast Confiscated Lands will to do them justice wholly engross my time and attention to the exclusion of all regard to my private interests whilst my acceptance of these duties has already involved a large sacrifice of them. This allusion although in the last degree repugnant to my feelings is forced from me by the imputation case upon my appointment by the Evening Post and I am determined to place on record my protest against so dishonoring a statement. The Hawkes Bay business which refers to matters already discussed I make the subject of a separate communication as the matter may be referred by you to Mr. Locke - In conjunction with the Commissioner I