Monday, February 17th

Got up and away to Christchurch by half past six to make selections of land for myself and others. Forty choices were made in regular order throughout the day without the least hindrance or obstruction and I returned with Mr Godley at full gallop across the Plain. On our way back we met the two Bishops who, however, intended to return to the Port before night though they had but one horse between them. At full gallop racing on a smooth place, Godley's mare beat mine hollow. Torlesse took tea with us and slept in Cholmondeley's tent. Lord Frederick Montagu^* a regular habitue of the house and cook-house, and very noisy. Every one laughing at me for choosing Quail Island; but had the satisfaction of hearing Torlesse tell me that he would have laughed more if I had not taken it. I have now taken 100 acres on it, which comprises nearly all the available portion.