Iron Pot Lighthouse
South Arm
December 21st 1875
My dear Mother

I have again to acknowledge receipt of yours and Marias letters dated Oct 4th and 5th respectively, but am sorry to say that the papers have not come to hand yet by the mail and there were only three last mail. Just be so kind as to mention in each letter how many you send as I intend writing to the Post-master about them. There has been very severe weather on this coast also lately and a good deal of rain which was greatly wanted. I have some of the flowers from the seeds you sent me out in bloom. The wallflowers and stock flowering very well. I often think that many at home would be glad of a situation as good as the assistants here. Their salary is £40 a year and £28 for rations besides light and fire but they seldom stay more than 12 months although there is hardly any work to do. Our summer is just commencing and these last few days have been very hot.

Since I have had my net we can supply our acquaintances with fish as they are very plentiful and many would enjoy a short residence here. Sanky’s Hymns have been out here for some time although I have not had the pleasure of hearing them. I thank Maria for the one sent out. The youngsters do not as yet show much disposition for music but perhaps will by and by. We are all pretty well thank God at present. I am sure that Mr Babington would accept any little token of gratitude with pleasure and especially as it would be "Irish".

Mrs Upton is well and we hope to have her here this summer. Luke has been presented with a Christmas box in the form of a daughter. I am sorry that you did not express your wishes before with regard to the name but Chris was afraid to call baby after the eldest as there would be such a lot to follow in succession. Hoping that George will be a useful man and that Sam may be successful in his studies and with love to all. I remain ever yours affect son

James C Parkinson