Jany. 18th 1869 There has been a very heavy sea running into the Bay this 2 days - I expect the Phoebe has run passed to Wellington - she could not come in - The Sturt left at 10 1/2 o'clock yesterday evg. - Koch intends to summons the Govt. if his bill is not paid for doing the addresses - There is some talk of starting a Company for a paper in opposition to the H. B. Herald. I have my idea that Mr. Towgood is looking for the Resident Magistrateship at Poverty Bay - The Board not being able or not agreeing as to whether the charges against Buchanan were to be under the Meetings Act or Voluntary Act - Buchanan came in plain clothes instead of Regimental and on asking the board a question bid them good morning and walked off - I believe the matter as far as it has gone is referred to Wellington - But the officers are very close on the matter - Msrs. Carlyon and Russell stick together. There is really nothing new. I hope your trip will do your Honor good. I have the honor to be, Sir, Your obt. servt. Geo. Thos. Fannin