Iron Pot,
December 31 1882
My dear Mother,

I hope that I feel grateful to God for the mercies of another year and although it is His day I do not think it emiss to shew my affection for the dear ones at home by answering the 2 last letters which are dated October and November 13th the last I just recd yesterday. I am glad to hear that you are all well. I hope that you may get through the winter safely. We recd the box safely as Harrison.. sent it ashore by the Pilot Boat while the ‘Windward’ was becalmed off this station, but I again have to scold Frank for sending the jam as the greater part was spilled through the box and some of the books injured. A box is likely to be turned over therefore jam should be set hard. What remained of the damson was very good but the other was spoiled, so please do not send any more although I know you would like us to taste some from the old country. I hope that Sam will be successful and get something permanent and also I think your pride commendable for ‘Money may make the man but not the Gentleman’ We have been in a sad mess lately as the house has been completely gutted and an additional room built, and we are all only getting straight by degrees and hope that we may be spared to enjoy the comfort of the alterations. I have not had time to write to Mr B for a long time and you may guess what leisure I have had when I tell you that I have 8 Belfast papers unread. He will be sorry to hear of A.C’s death as he first went to sea with his father. You must not judge a persons position in this country as in the old. A Harbour Master at home would not get over £200 a year pension which Mr B receives nor would the Officers of HMS Nelson deign to take tea with the a humble Lightkeeper at home either. As we had the pleasure of the company of one Major of Marines and 2 Lieutenants 3 midshipmen one of whom was the son of the Governor of South Australia on Christmas day, and on Wednesday Surgeon Picthorn, Staff Commander Portman and Secretary Warren. So you see we have good society sometimes. The ship is to remain some time and I almost forgot to tell you, that there is a nephew of Purdys the coast guard on board. He is a A.B. and I believe a very good man. I had no opportunity of having a talk with him but most likely shall. Chris has suffered much with the bells in her ears and is going up to consult a doctor. We do not know of course if it is nervous or the result of cold. She tells me Annie requires 9 and a half yards to make her dress as you only sent 6 and the same material costs 1/- per yard here. Hoping you got the cards and with love from All to All

I remain dear mother, ever your affect son.

James C. Parkinson

Kind remembrances to Aunt E, Joe and Sophy, wishing you all ‘a happy New Year’.