"Some four years ago Mr Bert Monro, of Marlborough, told me of some 50 odd diaries belonging to his grandfather, David Monro. Sir David Monro played a big part in moulding early Nelson and the diaries were held by Miss Monro, of Palmerston North. After four years of enquiry, we have arrived at the stage whereby the diaries go to the Turnbull Library in trust to come to Nelson under conditions similar to those pertaining to the Bett Collection, and the Kingdon and Budd Silver and relics." That was part of a report presented to the annual meeting of the Nelson Historical Society by the chairman of the Records Committee. Mr J. A. Jenkins.

"During the year a large volume of material has been given to the society. As far as our limited funds permit, books and other material of interest to the society are purchased when available," the report stated.

"It is difficult in this present age to know what will be of importance in a century or so, and in bringing certain highlights to your notice it is possible that the shadow has been placed before the substance.