Wellington, 15th April 1872 My dear Ormond, I send you a note from Reeves which gives an account of his doings with Brogden. We were in a dilemma with him and I think are as well out of it as can be expected. If he had gone back to contract No. 2, it would have been a great discredit to our administration after all this delay. It is also very important that Brogden should see and be seen in the South Island. I do not think that this little delay in our railway works will be on the whole prejudicial as I should like to see a stream of Immigration concurrent with their commencement and progress. I hope you will be able to come down soon. There are so many things to consult on about which one cannot express or learn views by telegraph. The Scandanavians are I understand comfortably located at Masterton and will commence road making. Halcombe seems to have made good arrangements. I have got the Commission, consisting of Dr. Hector, Halcombe and Reid (Asst. Law Officer) to make a thorough investigation into the "England" affair. If there is sufficient evidence a change will be brought against the Doctor. I hope you will see your way, after consulting with McLean, to dealing with the West Coast. It is at present one of our great difficulties. I think your Hawkes Bay debt from Wellington will soon be arranged and settled. Fox seems to fight rather shy of Fitzherbert. I think it is a pity, for politically we are working together. With kind regards to Mrs. Ormond, Your's truly, W. Gisborne.