—This will go in duplicate to the N.Z. House and to Caterham; the object being to prevent loss of time.

In order to move forward the Canterbury affair, I recommend that the Company should write officially and immediately to the Association, inclosing a copy of Mr. Hamilton's letter to you; pointing out that there can be no doubt that the Banks Peninsula Territory is now all at the disposal of the Company; that from what has happened it is reasonably certain that Captain Thomas has accepted and is now surveying the million acres in that territory; that, consequently, it is unavoidable that the Association should either determine to go on with its plan in that spot or abandon its plan altogether; that if it did the latter, the Company would avaiitself of Captain Thomas's survey, and would now be in a condition to sell the land and send out settlers; and, therefore, that the Company requests the Association to come to a decision upon the subject, by either at once accepting the land in that spot, or releasing the Company from its engagement.

It is desirable that this should be done without delay—on Thursday, if possible. Also, that you should get it done yourself, without bringing this letter, or my name, into the matter, with anybody: for the suggestion is exclusively mine.

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I feel confident, however, that if the Company send oif such a letter without delay, the arrangements which you desire will be much facilitated. Any delay in sending the letter would render it useless. It should go on Friday at latest; but Thursday would be better. In order to get it sent in time to do good, you must yourself drive it through the hesitations and habits of postponement which beset the Board,