25th February 1875,
Dear Sir, – having suffered Rheumatism for some time past, on the recommendation of my medical adviser, Dr. Turnbull of Christchurch, I visited your Hot Springs. After three weeks’ bathing, and drinking the mineral water, I am restored to perfect health. In fact, I have not felt so well for years as I am at present. The trip altogether has been a most enjoyable one. I found the Hotel* comfortable; excellent table, attendance good, civil and obliging, pleasant for the invalid seeking health, or the man of business requiring relaxation. I know of no place in New Zealand where a person could pass a few weeks more agreeable than at your hot springs.
*the hotel no longer has good attendance or excellent table due to the fact that it burned to the ground in 1926.