Wellington, New Zealand

Got ahore by 7:30 a.m. and took a cable car to the top hill above the town. A beautiful, land-locked harbor, surrounded by green rolling hills. Verdure very similar to that around San Francisco. Walking down we met the Mayor (up from a swim). Were shown around town by one of the citizens in his car despite the petrol shortage. Saw many cars using coke gas for fuel.

Wandered around town in the afternoon till we went to the assistant consul’s (U.S.) party. Consul was a very young fellow, with a pretty wife and two children. Met most of the upper-class belles and brought them back to the ship for dinner.

Skipped ship after dinner with the colonel’s partner, a very pretty redhead – Diana Brodie. We went to see the “Reluctant Dragon” and afterwards repaired to the Majestic, where we sat with Bill and John and their dates. The place was very crowded – a complete cross-section of the population. Raining when we got out at 1 a.m. – had trouble getting cab and found I was out of New Zealand currency on arrival at her house – a beautiful place with a colorful garden. She’s a very charming girl with a sparkling personality. Promised to return for dinner following evening.

Have never my life been so graciously treated as by these people of Wellington.