We arrived in Hastings a few minutes after five o’clock. It was well that we travelled the day of the overland mail, because we came through without being annoyed with any shunting (switching and making up train). Soon after we left Wellington it began to rain, and continued until noon; but they were only little misty showers.8LtMs, Lt 69a, 1893, par. 1

As we were nearing Palmerston, we looked at our bagage and it seemed a great amount to be transferred from one train to the other; but you can imagine our pleasant surprise when we stepped off and saw Brother Simpson anxiously looking as though he were expecting us or some one, and when we met he was pleased apparently as we, and he gave us just the assistance we needed. He was going in another direction, but it seemed the Lord put in his mind to watch for that train, and see if there was not some one of our people on board. He was just full of joy and courage, for two good souls had just embraced the truth under his labors, a mother and her daughter, and several were interested. We had but little time to converse, but he was full of many words, and his heart was joyful in God. The sisters who embraced the truth live at Foxton. We rejoiced in heart for these souls brought as sheaves to the Master. If there is rejoicing in heaven, why should there not be rejoicing on earth?8LtMs, Lt 69a, 1893, par. 2

I managed to get through very well. Emily made every arrangement for my comfort, and the journey, which I dreaded to some extent, was passed very comfortably, and I rejoiced the journey was performed so well. I praise the Lord for the guardianship of heavenly angels.8LtMs, Lt 69a, 1893, par. 3

At Ormondville we met brethren Anderson and McCullagh. Brother McCullagh brought us a pitcher of hot milk which was very gratefully received. He stated that his little girl was very sick with diphtheria and bronchitis, and for the three previous nights they could not leave her bedside. He stated that there were a number of cases in the same condition, and they were glad we did not stop over to hold meetings, for it would be much better at another time, so our plans seemed to be in the order of God, and the very best thing that we could do. We are glad that we are through with the journey. We think we shall be very comfortable at this place. We shall have the sun through the day.8LtMs, Lt 69a, 1893, par. 4

Before we reached Ormondville, a number of men, women, and children of the Maori race got on board and nearly filled one coach. At one of the stations this side of Ormondville, the Maori’s got off and a number of women and some men were at the station to meet them. There were several noble looking Maori’s. One man in particular who bore a noble looking countenance, and had his satchel of books the same as white ministers. He kissed several women. One may have been his wife, and the rest his daughters. Then for the first time, we saw the novel ... [Remainder missing.]8LtMs, Lt 69a, 1893, par. 5

Lt 69, 1893

Lt 70, 1893