Bendigo
April 14th 1859
My dear Mother

In the first place I must beg of you to excuse this paper, as I am too lazy to go for better but you know that good articles are generally made up in small bundles and you will more readily excuse it if it contains good news! At last! I have got a claim that contains the precious metal in payable quantities, and as far as one can judge I think I am all right for a lift. There are four in our party and we have been at it nearly four months. We have a grant of 150yards x 80 square and have plenty of ground if it only turns out well. I am sorry I cannot tell you the yield, as we are going to get some crushed tomorrow. I always had a notion there was little reserved for me in some corner. Well I have known the want of money and I rather guess I shall know how to take care of it when I do get it. At the same time I hope that I feel grateful to God who has blessed my efforts. I did not receive any letters from you last mail but hope soon to hear that you are all well. I have been a long time beating up against head winds but I hope that it is now up helm and square the yards and rig out studding sail booms. I have not much news for you this time but shall write more explicitly next. Give my love to Aunt E Miss Lascelles Mrs and Joe Surch. Brothers and Sisters

And believe me yours affect son

James C Parkinson