Nelson 17th. Jany. 1854. My dear Sir, Since my letter of the 23rd. Sept. in which I state in reference to the recent purchase of land in this Province from the natives "that I have already had several references from the natives on the subject of such a nature as to leave us no doubt that your presence will not only be acceptable but absolutely necessary to the carrying out the arrangements" I have had frequent interviews with the Natives from every part of the Province and also a volume of correspondence all expressive of disatisfaction at the purchases and I fear we shall have some trouble before all the details can be arranged. They have been told and fully expect you here this month and my object in now writing is to request you to name as early a time as possible for coming over and having the meeting which I have promised to apprise them of as they are very impatient and anxious for it. I should prefer it as soon as possible on my own district account also as I have to go down to the Hurunui district and should not like to go later than March as the snow begind to fall in that month which renders the journey overland not only uncomfortable and irksome but almost impossible to accomplish. You will have to bring over Puaha and other influential chiefs with you for I can assume you will require to be well supported to get through the business. I have all the correspondence filed ready for you. I hope my friend Strang is well. Pray give him my kindest regards and Believe me Very sincerely yours, W. Richmond.