Defence Office, Wellington. 2-3-72 Dear Sir, Since you left hotting has occurred worthy of being reported, the overland mail from Wanganui and the Rangitoto have arrived and letters and newspapers are forwarded by the Rangitoto to your address. In consequence of the gale as I reported by telegraph the Rangitira is not likely to be in for some hours - possibly will have to run back for shelter to Castle Point. I see however that the time of sailing of the Rangitoto has been altered to this evening, and it is not probable she will leave till the weather abates - so I hope to send you Napier letters with her also. I see Duigan Telegraphist of Wanganui will take over the Chronicle on 1st. April. Rather a coincidence in the date - tho' as he seems an energetic sort of fellow he may perhaps be able to make it pay - I think there is no doubt that it will strongly support the Govt. while under his proprietorship. The Evening Post last night had a most abusive article against Mr.Fox. I send the paper with others. In locals also it refers to a letter it has recd. from a tailor complaining that the A.C. uniforms are made at home under the "sweating" system, that is the employment of women and girls at ruinously low rates of remuneration. I expect if they were made in the Colony it would be only the contractor that would get the benefit. Still I thought you would like your attention directed to it. I see also the "Post" refers to the arms in hands of Wanganui Natives which were promised them by Sir George Grey. In accordance with your direction I have had careful search made in Defence Office and can find no record of any such promise. You said something at Wanganui about writing a private letter to Sir George on the subject. There is no sign yet of the San Francisco mail. I suppose it is again delayed by the snow. To day we have had a succession of short heavy showers, and it is threatening rain which is very much required. Hoping you have had a pleasant passage down, I remain, Sir, With much respect, Very sincerely yours, T.W. Lewis.