Iron Pot,
September 4th 1880
My dear Mother,

I was very glad to receive your letter with the well remembered features of dear old Grandma. I knew it at once, and was also glad to receive the papers with the account of George’s presentation and I hope that he may live long to enjoy his new position and be the means of much good in his new field of labour. People in the old country have queer notions about position. There are plenty of captains of ships would be glad of my birth, and a short time ago a Gentleman bred and born applied for a situation under the "Marine Board" as signalman not so good as this. I have long ere this dropped my Irish Pride it does not pay in a new country but of course I understand your feeling, but I think it a remarkable interposition of Providence that I am as I am when I call to mind what I have been. Excuse this. This has been a very wet and severe winter and we are having a slight touch of the cold but I suppose we will soon be all right again. Chris is going up to town and will post this and will send one of Annie’s photos if done. I am also very glad to hear that Sam is getting round again and hope that by this time he will be perfectly restored to health.

I was sorry to hear of Mrs Conan’s death. Remember me to the old man when you see him. You need not fear for me going in the boat when it is dangerous. I remember Robert Nelson remarking the morning after the ‘big storm’ when we went to see the church spin through the roof that I was careful of No 1. Is it not wonderful how we remember the trifling incidents of early life, but when we leave home the scene is changed, and in the excitement of active life the panorama pushed to rapidly to be so minutely impressed on the memory. I remember also crossing the Mall and meeting Auntie R. and being informed that I had got another brother on the 5th. Is George going to be content with one of his sisters as housekeeper when he gets all the furniture?. I made a good deal of my own furniture sofa, table 5feet 8in. by 4.4., cupboard, safe etc. not mahogany though, plain deal. "They answer the purpose" as well so that there is plenty to put on and in them. Chris says she is much obliged for all you are sending and so shall I when I receive them and you will probably get Charles Ross’s photo the next time. So with love from Chris and children and kind remembrances to Joe and Sophy also love to Sisters and Brothers from myself

I remain dear mother,

ever your affect Son

James C. Parkinson