My dear boy you are now far away from us but for all that we always think of you and pray that God in his mercy will keep you in good health and strength till your return, a learned and polished young gentleman among us again then your old Uncle will be proud of his little Duggy the boy. I miss you very much when I go to Napier now, indeed we all miss you. Poor Papa was very dull after you left, your old Aunt was down when he came back from Wellington and she was saying he was very dull but he knew [crossed out] new you were in good hands and would be well cared for by the worthy protectors you were put in charge of. I will gave you a little news. I gave you a good deal in my former letter. Uncle Alick is now at Oliver's old place and putting it in fine order, fencing etc. It will soon be like Maraekakaho and I am getting Glenorchy to look a great deal better also. A good deal of English grass now grows all about and I have planted a great many trees. Strangs Grove has got about 1000 trees in it and the wallnuts grandpa sent me to plant for you are doing very well. Pa had a look at your mare and fole when he was up. They are doing well. Spring and Nero are doing well also and Boby is a fine little boy. He milks 10 cows a day now and very usfull. He says he is going to stay with me till