Newcastle N.S.W.
‘Picard’ 
Sept 16th 1866
My dear Mother,

I suppose that before this you have recd. my letters from H.town. I am at present with my old Capt. and thank God that I am at last in the cabin and hope will never again be in the forecastle. Capt. Hopkins was always kind to me. I believe him to be one who wishes to do right and is decidedly religiously inclined. I always said that I would not get married while going to sea, but as I have a prospect of soon getting something to do on shore it is probable that I shall take the notion one of these days. I have one in view who I think will make a good wife, but will not say anything this time ‘till something serious takes place. Poor Sam I am so sorry that I was not here when he was, as I might have been of some use to him, but I hope he will be satisfied with something moderate at home where he will not have to Bush it. In some time I will be able to send you a collection of curiosities. I am getting some birds preserved at Rockhampton and you can get them set up. I would like you to send me a Belfast paper every mail as these are such stirring times.

Uncle Edward once told me that there were relations of his in Melbourne. Perhaps Aunt E. knows their direction. I believe their name is Ross and I believe there are some friends of the Riddlall’s in Sydney. It would be pleasant if I could find them as I am occasionally in these places. This has been a very severe winter on these coasts and a great number of vessels have been lost. I hope you received my Carte but I was sorry that they were not properly taken. We are going back to H.town tomorrow or next day and hope to receive some letters on my return from you. I cannot find much to say to you now but will write when I arrive in Town. I hope your are all well. I never enjoyed better health thank God. Give my most affect love to Sisters and Brothers and Miss L., Joe and believe me

Your affect,

James C. Parkinson