Derwent Lighthouse,
nee Iron Pot,
July 23 1884
My dear Mother, 

As you say in last letter May 15th I do feel sorry that Dear Aunt E has gone from us. I remember well when she first came to live at Killough when we were gathered with her in the schoolroom. I received also a letter from Uncle Edward announcing her death. Well it is to be hoped that it is a change for the better and God help us all to make sure of this. I think if the face is any index of the mind George ought to be a happy man and all who have seen the photo of my sister in law seem well pleased with it. I hope that before this that you have got the jam safely but I do not think it will be as nice as usual as it was too much boiled. Willy is going up to school tomorrow and Chris is going with him to get what is necessary. I think he will get on very well as he has that rare quality of his age, good sense, and I believe he will be taken good care of. Chris will get babys photo taken and if in time will send it by the mail. I should have told you that George’s photo came also to hand safely. You will see by the heading of this that the "Iron Pot" has been rechristened and in future to be known as the Derwent Lighthouse. It was built in 1832 and we are of the same age. Chris is much better but still has the ringing in her head. This winter has been very cold but not so severe as last. There have been several earth tremors here but nothing to do much harm. I have not had much opportunity of gardening lately as I have been pretty well employed at home, but have managed to get early potatoes, onions, turnips, peas and beans in and up and this is our mid winter, so you may think what a climate we have. Geraniums and wall flowers in blossom. Willy is to get his photo taken and to send to you also and we will send you a newspaper if possible. Chris will do as you direct but outward mourning is not much use here. Hoping this may find you all well and with love from Chris and children and kind remembrances to Joe and Sophy.

I remain, dear Mother, ever you affect so,

J. C. Parkinson