Having received a pressing invitation from the diggers and settlers at Hamilton to open the little church that had been built there, I decided to accept the invitation, though it was midwinter. In due course I reached my destination, and received most cheerful hospitality from Mr Charles Broad, the Warden of the district. The ride from Hogburn (now named Naseby) to Hamilton on Saturday was pleasant, though the track was dotted with patches of snow. Before I retired to rest the snow fell heavily, but towards morning the air cleared somewhat and the stars became visible. The strong south-west wind, however, which followed, excited the fears of Mr Broad respecting the ability of the new fabric to withstand its force. About 8 a.m. we went out to survey the scene, and found that while the Presbyterian Zion had survived the gale, the Catholic chapel had become a wreck. The day, however, cleared up at 11 a.m., and the church was filled with worshippers, some having come from Hogburn and other distant parts. The collection, for the place and the congregation, was very good—exceeding ten guineas. After the close of the service I was much in request for various purposes, such as baptisms, supply of Bibles, and the discussion of the prospect of securing a minister. The burden of one was his marriage. This matter was to all appearance satisfactorily arranged on his assuring me that he had obtained the indispensable certificate of registration. At 2 p.m. on Monday the wedding party arrived on horseback from Hogburn, but on examining the certificate I found it had been issued by a person who, though occupying an official position, was not empowered to act in this matter. I was compelled to inform the expectant bridegroom that if he was bent on completing his happiness, he must see the registrar at Clyde or Waikouaiti, and I promised to wait till noon of Wednesday to help him over his difficulty. He started at once on horseback for Clyde, and meanwhile the members of the bridal party distributed themselves among the residents. On Wednesday the bridegroom returned with the requisite document, and the marriage was celebrated amid great rejoicings. So pleased were all with the result that on my leaving for home a five-pound note was put into my hand for the good of the church.
During this visit I had much conversation with the people of Hamilton and Naseby about the procuring of a minister or missionary for the district. They were confident that the occupiers of the runs would join them in supporting a good man. I assured them that the
