Auckland, 30 Nov., 1849. My Dear Sir, I have just received your note of the 20th inst. and have only time to reply that the Governor starts in two or three days on the trip overland to New Plymouth. As he goes up the Thames, crosses over to the Bay of Plenty and then streches accross to the lakes, perhaps ascends Tongo-riro before going down to the West Coast you need hardly expect him to be less than a month on the way. Lady Grey does not accompany him by land but will follow him in the "Victoria" as soon as she returns from Wellington. I suppose that both Sir George and Lady Grey will remain with you for a month or two. I am sorry to say that I cannot be of the party as my duties here will not allow me to be absent at present, and I very unwillingly relinquish my hopes of ascending Mount Egmont this summer. We have had late accounts from England and from what we learn the affairs of Europe appear to be recovering from the former state of great confusion. I believe the Governor has written Capt. King concerning the arrangements for his approaching visit to Taranaki. I remain, My Dear Sir, Yours truly, A. Sinclair.