Monday, February 10th

Cool sunny day, of real New Zealand pleasant weather—the Harbour looking lovely. After dinner, Maunsell and I rode towards Christchurch, he on Mrs Godley's mare. Went on with a letter to Mary, but find my brain in a horrid jumble. I never felt so truly happy in all my life. Tea with Mr Godley and Dr Jackson. The latter asked if I would myself, and persuade others to, join in a guarantee for repayment of advances for building a church at the Port in order that they may use the greater part of the Ecclesiastical Fund on the page 127College at Christchurch. Set out in the course of the evening my designs on Quail Island; Mr Godley said he was delighted to hear it. I wish Mary were here to give me her opinion. Was much pleased to hear Dr Jackson say this evening that no name can approach that of 'Mary' in beauty. I think so too and assented with such fervour that all began to quiz me immediately.