can stand after a long time of mental labour that rest must be procured even at the cost of many disadvantages to the state and country. The little time you were in the other colony was to you a very great benefit and I do not see why you cannot make your mind up for more rest and take a trip home or remain at your own place for a longer period to recrute. It is impossible to gain health at your age without taking care of it. I am happy to tell you that Mr Hart was here last week and left Kate here for the benefit of her health, and I am pleased to say that the climate here agrees with her so far and I may say that the trip did Mr Hart good also. He left Napier on Saturday last per 'Easty' S.S. steamer as he was wanted on Wellington by the 12th inst. Things are doing pritty well at the station. A number of sheep & rams sold and today they are dipping the lambs and I believe the dip is going to answer very well. I received a packet of seeds with your hand writing or Mr Kinrosses as at times he writes like you. Douglas is quite well and so is Annabella. Yours ever Archibald John McLean