Derwent Lighthouse,
December 26th 1886
My dear Mother,

Almost at the close of another year we have to thank God for his mercies and endeavour to be more faithful in the time that is to come. I have answered Maria’s letter but send you these few lines to let you know we are all well. We are thinking of looking out for a situation for Willy soon as he is nearly as tall as myself, I think he knows a great deal more that I did at his age. We are all healthy here and I think one thing makes us so that is we have to be our own servants. Nothing like a little work to promote digestion and keep people in fair condition. What do you think of our baby over two years old at the breast yet? Sorry to hear that things are so dull at home. Things are not very bright here at present but a great deal better than the old country. I have written this but I do not know if I will be able to get it posted as our communication is interrupted because of the holydays. So with love to Aunts, Uncles, Grandma ......... from all,

I remain dear mother, ever your affectionate son,

J.C. Parkinson

Kind remembrances to Joe and Sophy. When will I get Annies photo?