The Cliffs, Nelson 3rd November 1875 Dear Sir Donald, When Dr. Pollen passed through here, on his way to Auckland, he asked me to find out, as well as I could, what chance Sir Julius would have of being returned for the City - Since then I have been making enquiries and have written the result up to him today - and as I spoke to you on the subject in Wellington, I thought it right to keep you informed of how matters stand. I have seen a good many of the leading Citizens who all appear favourable to the idea of bring Sir Julius forward. The Mayor, has taken it up warmly, and as he is always about the town, he ought to be acquainted with the public feeling, and he is very sanguine of success - then again Mr. Sharp, who is determined to stand, is equally confident. However when you have made up your minds what place to bring Sir Julius forward for, and if you decide upon Nelson, please give us as long notice as you can, in order that we may form a strong active working Committee, as no doubt the struggle will be severe and hard, particularly so in consequence of Vogel's absence, if present, there would be no doubt of his success, but being away makes the matter more difficult and uncertain - There is another matter that we should be informed about, that is where the necessary funds are to come from, for carrying on the war, the Mayor informs me that it will cost about £100, and perhaps a little more, he speaks from experience in City elections. There is a probability of another seat being vacant here, where Sir Julius would I think be returned without opposition - that is I. Shepherd's of the Waimea's - it appears that Broad our Resident Magistrate, is anxious for political honors, and imagines also that he can make more by his profession, than in the Govt. service, and is seriously contemplating retiring, and offering himself for the new seat at the Grey, where he tells me, he is certain to be returned - Shepherd (rumour says) has long since been promised the appointment whenever it was vacant - so if that is the case, the Waimea's would be open, and an easy seat, as there is no local man of sufficient standing to contest it - Now I think I have told you how matters stand here, but if anything fresh should turn up, I shall not fail to let you know. There is another matter that I should like to ask you - that is, if you are still in the same mind with reference to what you said to my Father, about the Legislative Council - would you kindly let me know some time before the writs are issued, as I should like to retire from the Suburbs in plenty of time to give Wells an opportunity of well canvassing the district, which I would do with him, in order to make sure of his election, as he would be a stanch and honest supporter of the Govt. upon all questions - and from what he said to me a day or two back, I think he is anxious to come in again - By kindly doing this you will confer a great favour on me - With kind regards Believe me to be Sincerely yours A. J. Richmond