17 October 1871

We got into Wellington at night in darkness, but arose next day to admire the beautiful bay, in all respects like a lake being land locked and the entrance not visible from the town. Thanks to our friend, Col. Whitmore, and one of his acquaintance, we speedily obtained lodgings, and now are located for the while, - safely at last, except that Fielding during the heavy seas was knocked down and had his rib broken; - and for one day I almost dreaded he would not recover. He has been well cared for, however, and now is nearly well. We have been very well received among those of the Members of Parliament who have heard of us. I have placed Dunny at school close at hand, and my Negociations with the Government have occupied me most anxiously ever since arrival. I am not pleased with the way in Vogel’s Government have treated us, for they did not bring forward our No 1 Contract on account of some popular clamour; and because they feared they might lose their places, we were to be sacrificed, exactly as we had apprehended. However I have seen a great many of the Members and they tell me I have been enabled to convince them as to my view, and hence page 25 the Government have been authorised to grant us £1,000,000 on open Contract and direct payment, instead of forcing upon us No 2 Contract. Meanwhile there is a very great deal to do and to examine so as to make judicious tenders for the Railways to be constructed, and it is quite evident that I must give these matters personal attention as the Govt will only dealt with be principals.

I shall write again the next mail. Meanwhile I feel very anxious for news from home for as soon as the Session is over which will be in about Ten days, I shall have to go up Country, and out of the reach of news.