Iron Pot,
July 17th 1880
My dear Mother,

I have just received your letter and am glad to hear that Sam is in a fair way of recovery and hope that he will in future take every care of himself - I was also glad to hear that you had received the box and liked the contents. I have planted C.G. in the garden since I made the jam and they are bearing fruit already. This has been a very severe winter but the weather is set in mild at last. Annie went back to school on Wednesday and I had to go with her in a boat as there was no other opportunity, but I only stayed one day, and am glad to hear that Walter R has not to go away from you and that George I hope by this time will be settled so near you. But as for myself I am thankful for what I have and will endeavour to trust Him for the future. I was very much surprised to see by the papers that our new Governor who on his appointment was Major Stracken and has since been knighted has Cumine for his second name. Sir G. Cumine Stracken can he be any distant connection? As I never saw the name in print before. I will send you some more wattle seed next time. They do not require much water perhaps kindness has killed them or the climate is too severe. I think the gum will be hardy.

I have written to Annie and she will get her photo taken as you desire. Mrs Cunningham told me that she showed an aptitude for drawing and she has brought down a quilt worked by herself for baby and also a petticoat. The letter you speak of was entrusted to a person to post but I shall be more careful in future. There are so many mails now and different prices.

I had not time to go and see Mr Babington but he is well and I sent him a photo of the Iron Pot. I had a letter also from cousin James. His brother has come out to him. I have sent him a fine lot of choice apple trees which I hope may flourish and be of use to him as he has had drawbacks usual to new colonists.

I enclose a letter from Annie to her Aunt Maria. You will please enclose it in an envelope and send it to her as I do know her direction. I will try and get something to send you when the time comes but I suppose the jam will be the most appreciated. All here are well. Remember me to Joe and Sophy and love from Chris and all the youngsters to Grandma, Aunts, Uncles. I remain

Dear Mother,

Ever your affect son,

James C. Parkinson.

Mrs Upton desires to be remembered to you. Baby Charley is getting a fine fellow. Write plainer please.