Ravensdale,
Feb 11 1851

Dear Grandma,

I have heard Mama say that you expressed a wish that I would write to you and I would have done before, had I anything good to tell you concerning myself. T’is not from forgetfulness of your kindness and affection for me. I have been this long time in a very unpleasant state of mind, uncertain what course to peruse not having an inclination to study for that post which you so much wish me to occupy, and unwilling to undertake anything that could be out of my providential course or disagreeable to my friends, and also I feel at being a burden to my dada. May God enable me to do what is pleasing in his sight, but surely whatever a person may turn their hand to, will not prevent them "serving the Lord". At any rate this house is enough to sicken anyone and prevent their taste for study.

I was at the ploughing match at Charlamount on Thursday last in the old racecourse there and there is to be another tomorrow here.The Knox’s are to leave this on the 1st of next month, they were in church on Sunday and could hardly speak for crying. I suppose the money is very scarce with you and I did not like to ask, but if it would not inconvenience you could you give me some as tis long since I had any.

Yours affect,

J.C. Parkinson