—You met Captain Bellairs here. He decides to be a colonist. He is the eldest son of Sir Wm. page 180Bellairs of Mulbarton near Norwich, formerly Exon of the Guard, as our colonist now is, having succeeded his father. The Bellairs' family is ancient and most respectable: the Mulbarton property, which is entailed on the colonist, is a couple of thousands a year. He was a total stranger to me till lately; but by dint of keeping him here for a fortnight, I now know his character well. He is high-minded, capable, very prudent, assiduous, and orderly, and an intimate friend of Major Wilbraham. I enclose a letter from the latter, which I should be glad that you sent with this to Lord Lyttelton; my object being to make you and Lord Lyttelton acquainted with Mr. Bellairs, who is likely to take the lead amongst the first body of Canterbury colonists, and whom therefore it is desirable that the Founders should thoroughly know and be disposed to encourage.

I must beg of you to return Major Wilbraham's letter: for Mr. Bellairs does not yet know of my intention to send it to you.