year but I would like if their was any more blue gums seed to be had good in Auckland that you would send me some. If I get it in December it will do altho two late. I have a little but very little that I got from Mr Lowrey and the plants are coming up now and will be ready to plant out in March next. I am thankful to think that there is a likeyhood of a piece among the natives it would be in dreadful thing for us all of a general war was to commence. I do trust that will not be the case. The natives here are pritty quite but some of them are very bounable [?] however I hope they will soon become to see better and these things will go on well between both races. The judge seems to have very clear views of the way that land ought to be leaced or hired from the Maories. I would like to see his plans adoppted very much. I dare say he will write them all down for the Governor's inspection as well as yourself so I need not mention them here. He seems a very nice man. Mr Strang and him enjoyed there visit up here very much but I am sorry to say the weather was very bad raining all the time. Poor old gentleman was beaming with delight that he was able to come so far and appeared pleased with all he saw. The Maid of Islay was in the padock with her fold & he was so pleased to see her in such good condition. I would have been so pleased had he time to remain for a few days but busness would not allow him but he said he would come when you would come down if you brought Douglas with you you [crossed out] and stay