Hobartown 
August 8th 1873
My dear Mother,

I am glad to hear by your last letter that you are all well. We are also glad to hear by Telegraph that the 12th has passed off quietly. I have had a hard struggle this winter as my regular employment ceased sooner than expected and it has thrown me back a good deal and also as with you firing was very expensive. But thank God I hope that we will not be so situated again as I am at present one of the boat crew in the Marine department. Wages 28/ per week, house, firing and £6 a year allowed for clothes, which situation I have been appointed to about a fortnight ago through the influence of a brother Orangeman named James Weir of Belfast with a Mr Babington, the harbour master formerly of Londonderry and acquainted with the old Capt. Cotter. It is a great relief to us as I have been a good deal put about lately and it will take us some time to get straight again. I hope that I feel grateful to Him who superintends the affairs of us poor mortals for his goodness to us as I had no prospect of employment for some time. The work is very light principally boarding every ship coming in. In fact I could not have anything to suit me better. I am requested by James Weir to ask one of my brothers to ascertain for him the year he was born in his native place was Whitehouse where King William landed. He was baptised in the Church at Carnmoney, son of Wm and Isabella Weir. His father was in the employment of Mrs Blair of Marble? Afterward Rowan. By referring to the register it might be easily ascertained. Thinks it was either 19 or 20, do not forget. I hope that Sam will be able to get something to suit him. I have had to wait such a long time so he must not be discouraged. Poor Willy is not very well at present but hopes that he will soon be. He is not, I am afraid, very strong but George is getting on amazingly and full of life. All here join in love to you Sisters and Brothers and Friends,

believe me ever your affect,

son

James C. Parkinson.

Miles is well and is now Captain. George’s pansies are very fine, we will miss our garden now. Direct