Iron Pot Lighthouse
Jan 17th 1878
My dear Mother,

I was glad to hear by George’s and sister’s letters that you have been enabled to bear up so well under the heavy trial which the death of our beloved brother has been to us all. As Frank said in her letter so I can say that sometimes I can hardly realise that he has left us forever, and as my dear Father used to quote ‘All men think all men mortal but themselves’ so death among strangers does not seem death until it lay hands on one of ourselves. May the Almighty enable us all to lay these things to heart and to be ready. I hope my dear sisters will not let this affliction weigh too heavy on them. It must be a great comfort in affliction to be among kind, sympathising friends, and to contrast their situation with what it might be were they not so surrounded. For my own part I must say that I have too long lived at a distance from that God who has been so long suffering and kind to me. May he enable me for future to lead a new life and live ‘as in his sight’. I received the lock of hair in Maria’s letter will and get it set in a locket the first opportunity. I have dear Willys photo in a frame. Chris has been very ill since she came down, but is now quite recovered. Mrs Upton’s half brother is coming out here. He is in Kilkenny in some situation there. He was a sergeant? in the 17th and his name is Andrew Bloug?. Luke is writing this mail and if there is time I will get him to send your directions to him

We had Mrs Upton down for a month until Chris got strong and she has just gone back. I am glad the wattle trees are doing well. We are beginning to gather a few curiosities for our next box. Give my most affect Love to Sisters and tell Maria I received the mignonette and with Love to Sam. I remain dear Mother, ever your most affect son,

James C. Parkinson.

Love from Chris and Children and please say where I shall send my letters in the future.