Derwent Lighthouse,
August 13th 1884
My dear Mother,

I received yours dated June 18th after my letter to you was sent away and as we have Baby’s and Willy’s photos to send I suppose the sooner you get them the better. Willly you will see is quite a man and Tassie is a wonderful boy. Chris forgot to get some decent writing paper when in town last so I must wait until I get some before I write to George as I see by Newsletter that he has celebrated the first of July. Willy likes school very much and is a very thoughtful boy. He is in a class with a few others one hour extra in order to make up for lost time. I forgot whether I told you that I had a letter from Uncle E last mail announcing Aunt E death, but have not answered yet, but sent him a newspaper. I am afraid that its not be much rest Chris will be able to give her leg as colonial and home life are very different. We have no servant and do our own washing, bake our own bread etc., clean, paint, paper, sand or make mend from morning to night and when I can afford a day to the garden its not out of the back door but about ¾ of a mile across the water. I have been very busy this winter making the house more comfortable and have built a nice store room 14 x 9 feet which will give more room in the dwelling. We have got so far well over the winter which has been mild. Maria is in town for a short time so our family is small now. All the children are well and send their love. I must endeavour to write you a long letter soon but am not in the humour at present so hoping you will receive this safely and with love from Chris,

I remain, ever your affect son,

J.C. Parkinson.

Love to sisters and brothers, Remembrance to Joe and Sophy etc.