Liverpool
Oct 16th 1851
Dear Mamma,

I arrived here safely last night at 9pm as the steamer was delayed in Belfast until 6 o’clock the following morning by something happening to the boiler. I was not sea sick altho had I been inclined I would not have been singular, it was going in showers but I dont know whether it was India male or not. As it was so late last night when I arrived did not report myself but intend doing so immediately. I would not advise anyone to take a deck passage, except in summer as it was a little cold. The women were heaped among the goods and lying every place, one would think that they were going to turn themselves inside out., or give up the ghost, for their mouth was wide enough for that purpose. I will send you my directions as soon as possible but in the mean time do not be uneasy about me as I will do my best to get on, and fretting will do no good. The young man Clark came over with me. He seems a very nice young fellow and will be pleasant to have a companion from Old Ireland. The Channel looked very nice yesterday particularly the precipitous sides of the Isle of Man. I saw the chickens off the south point of the Calf, and when we had gone about 30 miles to the other side, got the last glimmer of the Mourne Mts . We passed three steamers all exchanged signals with one of them. What I have seen of Liverpool agree with the accounts. I have heard that it is the greatest seaport in the world but I will tell you more of it hereafter. Please give my love to all at home. Grandma, brothers, sisters, aunt, Joe and Mrs and believe you me ever yours - affectionately,

James C. Parkinson