I am exceedingly glad that Whitmore is giving so much satisfaction, no one will be more rejoiced than I shall to see this unfortunate war ended. From what I can gather the aspect of things is better on the West Coast. You ought to have had your sketch book when up in the Ngatapa ranges, although I do not suppose the scenery is in any way equal to the lake and mountain views of Otago such as the Wakatipu for instance. Wishing you many happy returns of the season I remain Yours very truly Sigd. Donald McLean