My Dear Sir, By your letter of the 7th inst. I was glad to learn that you were so far on your way to Auckland as New Plymouth. I am afraid however the good people of this place will keep you for some time amongst them for the same reason that the Southrons and we here would like to have your services also. Among other matters we have been obliged to send hurried replies to, relating to New Plymouth and of which we have been informed of only yesterday is the Ordinance for raising money to buy land. It must be disallowed for reasons we have not had time by this Mail to state at length, but which will be done bye and by. When the Colonel receives your report on the purchases that would be advisable from the Natives and the sums that may be required for such purpose he will authorise the money to be advanced from the land fund of this Province. So you had better be prepared with the necessary information when you come here. On your way should you be able to facilitate the purchase of land on the Waikato or at any of the places you visit you will render a great service to the people here who are now greedy for lend and have plenty of money to buy it with. I have not a moment longer to write you, but will be delighted to see you here under my own roof tree. Yours most truly, A. Sinclair. Feby.21 /54.