24 February 1872

Next morning we paid off Moon, on which he asked me to recommend him to the Governor General! Llewellyn and Chamberlain determined to walk. The “Moke” was done up, but converted into a pack horse for them, carrying the tent and swags. I bought “Tommy” the original Packhorse for £5.00 for Dunny to ride. We also bought some oats at the rate of £2 per bushel, and aft later in the day lunched with Captn. Morrison at the Barracks who Kindly let our horses run in his Paddock, and were introduced to Captain Gascoyne of the Native Force. Dunny and I rode on to “Opepe” where we stayed with Major Scannel, receiving a kindly welcome, and getting a good bite of grass for the horses; - but it is a dreary spot. The Taupo Lake is very large and looks well in the distance. Altho’ its shores and page 79 the district are so desolate, it is said that within a short time the Maoris can call together a large force. It has been a great step for the Govt. to have the roads made by the Maoris themselves.