Iron Pot
September 23rd 1880
My dear Mother 

I was sorry that I missed answering your last letter 14th September by return mail as Chris was in town and I left it too late besides having the housekeeping to look after in her absence as she only took the baby. I am glad to hear that you had such a pleasant time at the old house and that the harvest was so good. Chris took advantage of a pleasant excursion to go down the river on "The Prince of Wales’" birthday in a steamer, and went up to town in her and got back on Saturday in another SS that is going to make trips during the summer months to this place every Saturday afternoon, which will be pleasant as there is good fishing to attract visitors here. This season has been very windy throughout and I have not had much opportunity of gardening. We have advantage over you in the way of flowers as the winter is so mild that the cold weather does not affect them in some situations. I have a great many wallflowers from the seed you sent out. In fact when you set seed once you have only to keep the flowers within bounds. You will have heard before this of the melancholy death of Mr Matthews. We received the box and parcel safely and amongst the various items I recognise the dear old Missionary box. The jacket fits Annie very well and the hats will keep the sun off the children. You will thank uncle George and aunts for all the nice books etc and also cousins Riddall. But to particularise will exhaust my sheet of paper. I suppose that I will be able to make arrangements to send you something home this time. When I go up I will let you know. Mrs Matthews is I believe going home by the "Lufia" on her return to London. Chris children and myself return you (??) and sisters our best thanks for all the nice things sent. I set the seeds and they are all come up. I will have a fine crop of Strawberries this year as it is their 3d and also of potatoes but everything is cheap now except meat. Mutton/4d and 3/ ½, beef 6d which is higher than the other colonies. I forgot to say that Maria likes her workbox very much and Chris desires me to thank Mrs R for the nice book. Mr Babington intends spending a week with us shortly. Tell Sam I will send the medicine if it can be procured and also the gum leaves. Annie is getting on very well with her music so the pieces come in handy. I enclose 2 gems which you may be able to recognise. Please do not write on such heavy paper I had to pay 1/ for your last letter. Mr B says George must be a good man. So hoping that you and all at home may get over the severe weather and with love from Chris and children I remain dear mother, ever

your affect son

J C Parkinson

Remember us to Joe and Sophy and love to sisters and brothers