Iron Pot Lighthouse,
Jan 27th 1884
My dear Mother,

I was glad to hear by Marias letter that you were so well, and hope that you all may get over the severe weather safely as it seems to prevail all over the world irrespective of seasons. We have had no pleasant weather yet but exceptionally severe and unsettled. Perhaps this comet has something to do with as it is now visible in the western sky. Also a very luminous glow in the heavens after sunset and before sunrise which some suppose to be caused by dust in the atmosphere caused by the recent earthquake in the Straits of Dundu? We have had 5 men to provide for with food and lodging this last month who are engaged erecting the new lantern, and making other improvements at this station and we’ll be very glad when it all over. As you may suppose that we are rather inconvenienced in our limited qtrs by so large a family. Maria tells me that there is a parcel coming and will direct someone to call for it, as I know that there is a person of the name mentioned so it will be all right if it comes safely. I am not going to trouble Capt. R this time, but when I make the jam will send by some other vessel. I have not had much opportunity or time to attend to the garden this season but managed to get the crop in only the weeds have now got the upper hand. Our baby boy is a fine healthy fellow and takes great notice already. Chris is a great deal stronger and better but her leg still pains although not so swollen. There are lumps in it and she still suffers from the ringing in her head but in a less degree. We have had our annual regatta but the weather was very unfavourable and I had a letter from one of the officers of the H.M.S. Nelson flagship of the Australian squadron now in Hobart, and I expect a visit from him and his brother officers. I do not remember that I told you that I had a letter from Mr F Darley a nephew of Rev J.R. Darley formerly of Dungannon College. I saw the name in the papers and wrote to enquire if it was the same. He is now a QC and has been a number of years settled in Sydney and intends shortly to visit the Old Country where Mrs D(arly) and family are at present but has promised to come and see me when he visits Hobart again. Chris’s father held a situation under his father in or near Dublin before they came here. The Salvation Army has invaded Hobart and gained a footing but of course there is a good deal of opposition. So hoping that this may find you all in good health and in the enjoyment of blessing from above and with love from Chris and children. I remain dear mother,

ever your affect son,

James C. Parkinson

Kind remembrances to Aunt E. Joe and Sophy. I always forget to get the wattle seed.