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