Hobartown,
Sept 8th 1870
My dear Mother,

I received your two letters dated respectively 6th and 14th and enclosure, which was very acceptable at the present as I have done very little lately and as we have had an addition to our family in the shape of a fine boy, there have been corresponding expenses, but thank God all has gone well and Chris is able to go out again. Our son puts me in remembrance of my dear Father about his head. I hope he will have a better one than I have as I often remember dear old Mr Surch’s opinion of it, but both Annie and he have their Mother’s eyes. We also received 6 newspapers which we read with great interest here. I am glad to hear that all went off quietly. We are getting on slowly but surely in the lodge here. The number of our lodge is "11" and the sashes worn in the colony are ribbed silk orange and blue stripe. I do not as yet hold any office but act as Chaplain when required. Our son was baptised ‘William John". John as he was born on Mr Upton’s birthday, as he predicted. By the by Brighton is his native place. I am sorry to hear of the death of our friend Capt. D. His loss will be felt by his family. I am glad to hear that Mr Lindsay is well. I know a Mr Lindsay here a thorough protestant who very likely was a relation but he is gone to his reward. I hope dear Maria will profit by her excursion and soon regain her health. Sam must take care of himself. I am afraid Canada would not suit him. Things are very dull here. In fact we have gone back this winter and to crown all this wise government are sending for shiploads of Germans when those that are in the country cannot get employment. This is our spring and the cabbage seed all came up and plants look well. There are regular ships to this place, leave London every 2 months or so. Box sent per parcel compy to care of Chief Officer for me would come all right. You would see their names in the papers. I enclose the part of the envelope which contained the order which you forgot to close and came safe open. With love from Chris and Annie and I remain yours affect

J.C.P.