Melbourne,
Nov 10th 1862
My dear Mother,

I arrived here safely on last Tuesday after a very protracted passage. We were very unfortunate in getting head winds for about ten days in the Channel, and again at the Line, and the Capt went as far south as 54° in order to get strong winds but unfortunately we had nothing but calm and snow. I was disappointed at not receiving the order on my arrival and this is the very time I might want it but if you have not sent it by the next mail you may do what you think best with it, as by the time it would take to come here in answer to this I hope that I will not require it. You need not have been afraid of my not getting it even though I was elsewhere, as I would write to the Post Master. I am sorry to hear that you are not well but hope that you will soon recover. I have not determined what I will go at yet, but I will leave this place as soon as I can ascertain what is best to be done. Things are very dull here but there are better reports from other parts of the country. I think Mr Russell was greatly to blame in sending Thomas to a public school as boys are sure to torment anyone like him. I do not know, whether I will be here long enough to get your next letter as the mail is nearly due, and that is why I write this. I fancied I saw Kate on the pier leaving L.pool. I feel a great deal better in health and spirits for I know as long as I have the former I can get along. I have only one main thing to guard against and thank God I have been preserved from it this time and hope always will. There was a son of Mr Moffatts the Preacher on board. I am glad that Frances enjoyed herself and hope that you may all be preserved for many years to come. Give my love to Sisters and Brothers, Miss L and believe me yours affect

James C Parkinson

You better direct as before Post office, to be called for until I get settled somewhere. I am stopping at the Western dining rooms, William Street. If you have not sent the order I make you a present of it as I hope I shall not want it. I do not know where I may be settled but you can direct as before when you receive this. I will write every mail. I have not tasted drink since I came ashore. Times are very dull but I can see a little hope. JCP.