Iron Pot
June 26 1884
My dear Mother,

As it is month since I sent a letter to you I do not wish to disappoint you although I cannot answer your letter expected by this mail as it was too late for the country post on Wednesday and therefore I will have to wait until Saturday. We are all enjoying good health and Chris’ leg is much better lately although she has not got the stocking yet. How is it that you do not have shocks of earthquake in Ireland? We have had some slight shocks here but nothing to speak of. Baby Tasman is getting a fine boy and I think will be like his Grandfather as he has a very fine and high forehead and is very intelligent. We must have his photo taken the first time he is in town, and although he has not any teeth yet he is beginning to say Dada already and is great favourite among the youngsters. The rest of the children are, if spared, promising to be taller than their father and very healthy thank God. Willy will soon I hope be at school and I will have to do my best with the rest. There are a great many emigrants coming here but it is very wrong for the Government to hold out coloured statements about this country. Persons of small means may get along here but they are flooding the labour market but I expect it is better than the old country. Only these fresh arrivals expect too much at first. This is mid winter with us and our onions etc. are just appearing so you must think the climate is mild. If there is any thing very particular in your letter I will answer it by next mail. So hoping this may find you all well and with love from Chris and Children to Grandma, Aunts and Uncles and kind remembrances to Aunt E, Joe and Sophy and hoping George will soon be amazed as we are only counted boys until we get the yoke on

I remain, dear mother,

ever your affect son

J.C. Parkinson