Saturday, February 1st

Very warm as usual in the morning. Concluded the bargain with Crawford for the four cows, which being milked this evening produced seven quarts, which sold in the yard for one shilling and tenpence—our first profits! the first credit item of our account. In the afternoon explored Quail Island by boat, and found it really well fitted for settling in—fine rich grass soil, abundant springs of water and a beautiful site for a house. We thought light of several inconveniences consequent on such isolation, but on the whole felt inclined to go there in case the Bridle Path section was taken before us. Its advantages are a pretty site, closeness to the Port market, besides good grass run for cows without the trouble of fences or fear of straying far away; pleasant too in being on the sea, and a likely place for fishing and shooting. While on the island the wind changed to the S.W. and came up with cold rains, making the little town look very page 120cheerless. Wortley going off to Akaroa and Pigeon Bay to-morrow morning in Catherine Johnson. Another vessel arrived from Wellington early this morning, and the town is full of strange faces. A good sign to see the flock turning this way.