that I am only more satisfied it was quite absurd attempting to make terms with Gillies. If Vogel would only go to the Middle Island as Resident Minister for six months, he would become as complete an anti-Superintendent man as there possibly could be found. I have started Weber at the survey of the line through the Seventy-Mile Bush; and called for Tenders for cutting the line. With good fortune, I hope to start the work in earnest by Christmas. Weber will meet Stewart at the Gorge when Gisborne advises me Stewart is ready; and Weber wishes him to come through the Bush to Ruatanewha to have his opinion on that part of the line. Locke and Bold are starting the Roads from Taupo towards Tauranga. The Niho-o-te-kire road is no doubt The Waikato can be bridged there with 25 ft. span; and the whole line is described as very easy, and as opening some good country. I do not expect Ngatiraukawa to do much yet at road work; and when I give you Locke's over sanguine expectations, I make myself the allowance I know you are sure to. I incline to think, however, there will be no opposition to carrying the road right through to Rotorua; and the Rotorua natives are already pressing for work between the Lake and Niho-o-te-kire.