would have been perhaps short and certainly not sweet - I am at a loss to account for the malice which evidently has originated reports concerning me, such as that I drink immoderately etc., and I am sure I need only mention to you who have always been my friend that such stories are in circulation and have reached Col. Haultain's ears, for you to contradict them. I mention to you in this private manner, that I have been a strict tee-totaller for the last six weeks at least. You have mentioned in your note that there is some complaint respecting returns. I regret this very much but have written a to Col. Haultain which I think exculpates me fully - I am much obliged to you for your defence of the flag of truce business, Col. Whitmore says you "shut up", to use a vulgar expression, Mr. Graham completely - Having talked quite enough about myself I wish to tell you what you will however probably hear from other sources. The first is, that Arthur Tuke assures me that he anticipates a disturbance at the Chathams on account of the guard being removed, it appears from what I can gather, there are two parties there, the chief of the weakest of which, has been