Tasmania Hobartown
January 28th 1863
My dear Mother,

The mail had sailed before I arrived here from Lyttletown New Zealand and we are again bound away to a part of the same country called Invercargill. When I was in Lyttletown when I was offered eight pounds pr month to sail in one of the small crafts but I am with an excellent Capt. and I did not like to take advantage of him altho he could not have prevented me going. I mean to stay in this vessel ‘The Prairie’ till I have something worth while and then I mean to settle in some part of New Zealand as it is by far the best country now. I think that I can see my way a little clear?? before me and with the help of the Almighty I hope soon to be in more prosperous circumstances. New Zealand is a very healthy country only it blows very strong and frequent there. I hope to fall in with some respectable person soon as I am sick of this unsettled kind of life and anyone who is sober and willing there can get on. If I looked 10 years older when you saw me I think I must look 5 years younger now as the living is very good in this ship and no hard work to speak of. The fear of the crew running away makes them be well treated. . When you write direct to ‘Mr J Young, Glenoughty, Newtown, Hobartown, Tasmania’ for me, and I will be sure to receive it. I am not much in the humour of writing this evening as we sail tomorrow so you much be content to hear that I am well with the prospect of doing better and in health in body and I hope in a sounder state of mind than herefore. Give my love to all my Sisters and Brothers, Mr Surch, Miss Lascelles and poor Sally

and believe me yours affect

James C.P.

P.S. Excuse this paper (it is covered in grime and fingerprints)