We were talking of some improvements that had been recently effected in the settlements, and from that we got to speculating on the future. Dandy Jack was wearily sighing for the good time when there should be a decent road constructed along this route.
"Wonder whether I shall live to see it;" he said.
"Of course you will," replied Old Colonial, who is nothing if not optimistic in his views.
"I tell you what; we shall all live to see not only a good road through this, but farms and settlements and hotels along it!"
"Bravo!" returned Dandy Jack. "Then I'll start a coach to run from Kawa-kawa to Whangarei, and on to Mangawai, or across to Te Pahi, perhaps. Might pick up some trade, don't you think?"
"I reckon your coach would be a failure, old man," continued Old Colonial. "I expect to see a railway one of these days, connecting Auckland with the Bay, and all the places between. Not much room for your coach then!"
"Oh, they'll not make a railroad up here this century."
"I expect they will, though," said our chief, impressively.
"And, look here! I'll tell you what's going to help make business for it. The Bay and Hokianga are our classic ground."
"Classic ground?"