Derwent Lighthouse,
5-2-86
My dear Mother,

Sorry to hear by Maria’s letter that you are laid up but hope that you will soon be better. I was sorry that I had written to you in last letter about money as I expect from what I see in the home papers it is a scarce article, but if it is any inconvenience do not trouble as I shall be able to get over our little difficulty soon if spared. Altho the Board granted so much per week for the children yet they were more expense than if they had been at home, and this grand house has caused me considerable expense for furniture but sometimes a "good name is better than riches". I am glad to be able to tell you that Willy has begun the world as assistant in a stationers establishment and he seems to like it very well. Of course his salary is very small at present but that will be raised as he deserves and he is pretty quick. I received Joe’s photo and will get a few copies taken when I go to Hobart but will not trust it with anyone else. I expect a party tomorrow with News camera to take this place and will send you a copy as soon as possible. I am glad to hear that ‘Orange Belfast’ has maintained her character. I was very much surprised the other day to get a squeeze of the hand from a Dr Lever who came down on a fishing excursion. This summer has been the hottest I can remember and there has been a great many accidents through bathing. The children are all pretty well at present we are afraid to give them electuary as the Drs in this country do not recommend it on account of the danger of taking cold after. We are much obliged to Sam for his prescription. Tell him to make an ointment of some of the gum leaves "Eucalyptus" and try its affect on the skin as it is greatly used here in the bush. And now dear Mother I hope that you will be well before this reaches you and that you will take every care of yourself and that the Almighty may answer your prayers for our temporal and spiritual welfare. Give our love to sisters and brothers and accept the same from children to yourself.

I remain,

Dear Mother,

Ever your affect son

J.C. Parkinson