—I am truly glad to hear that you are so nearly free.

I foresaw the probability that FitzGerald would be appointed to succeed you; and partly because J. Hutt wanted to give a proof of independence by doing something to which I have objected. But I only objected to the attempt being made to invest FitzGerald with attributes which he cannot possess—those of a leader, leading by means of his position in this country—because the attempt was sure to fail. I wished to spare Hutt and the others a self-delusion. But as regards the fact, I am well pleased. FitzGerald will make a very good Emigration Agent—as good probably, as the best they could find—and it is a great satisfaction to have so good and clever a fellow thoroughly enlisted as a Canterbury colonist. Let us always remember that as respects yourself, the Emigration Agency was rather cooked-up than otherwise, as a means of meeting your father's prudential view with respect to your being officially employed somehow. The post of leader is still open: and the chances are that if you find a man fit for it, he will not have a father disposed to insist on his being in office, but will prefer being a "pure colonist." Let us look out for him with all our might. If he would but turn up, he would take the position of leader without having any appointment, and, indeed, would do so the more easily and usefully for not having any appointment.

FitzGerald will be of great service in various other ways before you sail, and a great acquisition after you land.