February 9th, 1873, Commissioner's Office, Mount Cook, 1500 hours.
The commissioner was still in the process of putting on his hat and coat when he flew out of the office, his clerk trailing a few steps behind, carrying his bag, papers and reports.
"You're coming with me," said the commissioner, pointing to d**k, who had been loitering outside. The commissioner liked the assurance of having a constable in close attendance to keep him safe from malcontents seeking reprisal.
"Yes, Uncle," replied d**k.
"We need to see the governor immediately. And smarten up, please," added the commissioner.
The clerk hailed a Hansom cab, and handed over the commissioner's bag to d**k once they were seated. The single horse, two-seat buggy hurried through the streets of Wellington, passing warehouses,
