the Canadian Settlers at Okaihau (equally, with the four gazetted, supportersof Mr. McLeod) who are much better qualified to act as J. Ps. Charles Hargraves of Waimate too is a man of substance, and I think also one of Mr. McLeods supporters. I feel convinced that, should a contest take place now for a seat in the House for this district Mr. McLeod would lose by a large majority against him - it is matters like these that turn the scale - I am much afraid that the old Justices will resign - I have heard that two (one a neutral who did not vote last election, the other a strenuous McLeod-ite) will certainly do so forthwith. Pray look upon letter as confidential, for I never mention politics here, and I am sure that no one in the district is aware of how my party inclinations