Hobartown
October 28th 1868
My dear Mother,

I sit down to write a few lines to let you know that I am well, altho the mail is not yet due but I was going away to Sydney tomorrow. I hope on my last trip as I expect to get employment on shore when I come back which I shall feel very pleasant. Things continue very dull here, a regular stagnation of trade. Though the misgovernment of the country it is a great pity as it is so healthy and not as hot as other parts of the Colony. I suppose by this time you have got dear Annie’s likeness. She is recovered from the H Cough and is just ……….. She has cut 4 teeth already without any trouble and is stout and healthy. I hope Sam is better and all at home are well. You must excuse this as my time is limited at present but hope to be able to write you a long letter next time. So with love to all leaving Chris to finish this,

I remain, Yours affect,

James C. Parkinson