Bendigo
New Chum Gully
June 11th 1857
My dear Mamma

You may imagine my feelings on the receipt of your letter but express them I cannot. I am sorry that I did not take a trip home before the sad event happened, but it is too late now to do so, but shall I be spared for twelve month longer, I should hope to see you all, and yet I cannot say. I have been very successful, but it is not so easy to make a pile as it used to was, things are greatly alter for the worse this year or two and I can hardly tell what is best to do. Certainly if I chose to stop here altogether there is a very good prospect as a person can always make what we call wages, but I do not intend to pass any more of my best years in slaving without ever the comforts of life, of society of any kind. It was my Father’s last wish that I should allow nothing to prevent me from returning as soon as possible and as soon as I get matters settled I shall be off, should I ever have to return again I hope you will use all economy in your affairs. Do you think I could act as agent should I settle at home as father did not put much confidence in Mr Nelson. I have not time to say any more at present as the mail goes directly but give my love to my dear Sisters and Brothers, Miss Lascelles and Mr and Mrs Surch and believe me your effect son

Jas C Parkinson

PS Love to Dr Aicken