is satisfied that he ought to take New Zealand rather than the
islands; that the time is come for settling the matter while he is
able to settle it; and I had nothing to say, for all personal
objections he overruled. So then, if I live, it is settled; and
that, at all events, is a comfort.... Many of my Melanesians have
heavy coughs--some twelve, but I don't think any of them seriously
ill, only needing to be watched. I am very well, only I want some
more exercise (which, by the bye, it is always in my power to take),
and am quite as much disposed as ever to wish for a good game at
tennis or fives to take it out of me.

'Your loving Brother,

'J. C. PATTESON.'


The birthday letter of February 11 is a happy one, though chiefly
taken up with the business matters respecting the money required for
the Mission, of which Sir John was one trustee. Life was pleasant
then, for Patteson says:--

'I do feel sometimes that the living alone has its temptations, and
those great ones; I mean that I can arrange everything--my work, my
hours, my whole life--after my own pleasure a great deal more than
probably is good for me; and it is very easy to become, in a manner,
very self-indulgent. I think that most likely, as our work (D.V.)
progresses, one or two men may be living with me, and that will
supply a check upon me of some kind. At present I am too much
without it. Here I am in my cosy little room, after my delicious
breakfast of perfect coffee, made in Jem's contrivance, hot milk and