the present much to the disappointment no doubt of many yourself excepted who wishes to display their handsome features and figures on such eventful occasions but I cannot agree with you in altogether abandoning these amusements although you are perfectly might in observing that private parties are much more homely and pleasant for instance Mr Hervey's party at your own house as described by your mother must in the enjoyment it afforded have surpassed those which I have attended in Wellington good as they were. I left Wanganui at 1pm today and