Wellington March 2nd Mon chere frere Was glad to get your last letter by the 'Luna' as it assured one that you had at least a little leisure even to write that same. Those Maories when will they cease to give so much trouble & anxiety. But with it all you have the satisfaction of keeping the peace here and may you be enabled to continue doing so for the country is really getting into a tranquill hopeful state. That in itself must be a great solace in midst of your many annoyances. One respects that you cannot be here more frequently. Your influence bearing before other matters is almost essential to keep down oppression. Featherston begins to make himself a little crotchety but it is all pretence. He cannot make a .... of it in spite of him. I wish he were safely on his voyage where he may indulge in shewing his town papers to his heart's content. Mr Fox was here this morning. We lunched there lately & went over your house with them. Mrs Judge Johnston slippped her foot on the verandah and hurt her arm. Mr Moorhouse and wife dined here on Saturday. He does strike one as remarkable for varied talent. Kate is most attentive and kind to Mrs Branigan. Have felt dreadfully shocked at the issue of his illness. Trust it is not a hopeless case. Mr Hart is so well and so happy longing very much for you to come down. In haste Yours Annabella McLean