I have your letter of 26th September, and am ready to go to work upon the "Colonial" as soon as the necessary authority arrives.

I am posting you the new Act, "Land for Settlements," but from what Captain Russell tells me, it appears that the Government will only purchase land near towns; we cannot hope to do anything under this Act with the "Colonial," but I shall see the Officials.

I appreciate to the fullest extent the gravity of the responsibility which we are undertaking. I say we, for as far as this side is page 24 concerned, I must consider that your mantle has fallen upon me, and I will approach the task in that spirit.

Wishing you a happy New Year.