about his sheep as they are becoming a pest in the back country. Indeed I could not believe he would change so much. I hope he may spend more of his time up here as by talking over things that is to be done together I find now that he quite likes it and formerly he would get quite angry when I would sugest any thing. He was today in the bush and spliting timber himself to load the dray to keep the fencers going. So poor fellow he may do well yet. He says he will pay off all usless men and make reforms so my dear brother I hope God may change him and all that require a change for the better. I was very sorry to hear of the dreadful news from Bay of Plenty but I hope you will endeavour to soon have it put down altho I am certain it must gave you very great concern. I do believe