Hobartown
March 25th 1870
My dear Mother, 

We were all sorry that Luke did not go over to see you. His mother had a letter from him in which he stated that he had mislaid the directions. I am sure that he might have found you out without much trouble if he had gone, but I hope he will be spared to come back and I am sure you will have an invitation waiting for him "in propria forma".

I am sorry that poor Sam is still suffering. I am afraid that the climate of Canada would be very taxing for him. Chris' mother received Luke's likeness and also one of Mr Martins. I suppose you will be pretty intimate now, it will be pleasant for you. I suppose you will have sent the chest by this time as there are always vessels of berth for here and if the frocks are too small for Annie they will fit the next. I thank you for your hints with regard to Annie. I don't mean to say that she is anything extraordinary good tempered, for old Adam peeps out sometime. But he promises to be very sensible and tried to do anything that she sees done and is very thoughtful. I hope she will be spared to us. We also recd 4 newspapers which are passed through a good many hands. You might tell Aunt E that there is a Mr MacConnell who knew her and all the family. He is a gunsmith and is 40 years here. We received your letter, cards safe. There has been a revival here lately and a good many who had grown cold have been brought in again. It is not very pleasant sometimes to have to work hard, but it is worse when the conscience is burdened. But it is a great relief to have peace and confidence not that wavering remorse and fearful look _ for of judgement. God help us all to hold fast and press forward. Chris is as well as can be expected and desires to be remembered to you all. Annie is well and sends her love to Grandma in which your affect son

James C. Parkinson

joins.