31 December 1862 Maraekakaho My dear Donald I would have written you by Atkins but I went over to Mrs Lowrey's and had Douglas with me on Monday for two fine saps of bees that gentleman being going on a tour with his wife requested me to take them home before he left. I got them home early yesterday morning. I am happy to see that you are at last going to except [accept] the wishes of the people and become superintendent. I think it will be a good thing as long as it does not interfear with your former office. I should be very sorry if you were to lose that as it gave you such power and standing in the country. However I am thankful that you are now likely to be bound to this place and that it will be for your own advantage as well others. I was very dull on Christmas Day not having you here but of course