Wanganui Wednesday 7 p.m. August 1872. My dear Sir, I reached Home by the Coach last night, to find my worst fears realised. Three weeks' close attendance upon the children, day and night; together with anxiety on my account, and my absence also, have told their tale; and my poor wife was completely prostrated. I never beheld such a wreck. Her reason for the time, if not for ever, has fled; and she has but just recognised me, although I have watched at her bedside since my return. That recognition, too, is purchased by such fearful depression of her system, that I scarcely know from her pulse, if life remains. I am sorry that I cannot write the letter I intended by this mail; sorrier still