A LAST SCENE IN NEW ZEALAND 
5 
4 or 5 tons of bran, and some crushed oats. We are not 
taking any corn. 
We have managed to wedge in all the dog biscuits, the 
total weight being about 5 tons ; Mcarcs is reluctant to 
feed the dogs on seal, but I think wc ought to do so during 
the winter. 
Wc stayed with the Kinscys at their house i Tc Han ' 
at Clifton. The house stands at the edge of the cliff, 
400 feet above the sea, and looks far over the Christchurch 
plains and the long northern beach which limits it ; close 
beneath one is the harbour bar and winding estuary of 
the two small rivers, the Avon and Waimakariri. Far 
away beyond the plains are the mountains, ever changing 
their aspect, and yet farther in over this northern sweep of 
sea can be seen in clear weather the beautiful snow-capped 
peaks of the Kaikouras. The scene is wholly enchant- 
ing, and such a view from some sheltered sunny corner in 
a garden which blazes with masses of red and golden 
flowers tends to feelings of inexpressible satisfaction with 
all things. At night wc slept in this garden under peaceful 
clear skies ; by day I was off to my office in Christchurch, 
then perhaps to the ship or the Island, and so home by 
the mountain road over the Port Hills. It is a pleasant 
time to remember in spite of interruptions — and it gave 
time for many necessary consultations with Kinscy. His 
interest in the expedition is wonderful, and such interest 
on the part of a thoroughly shrewd business man is an 
asset of which I have taken full advantage. Kinsey will 
act as my agent in Christchurch during my absence ; I 
