Derwent Lighthouse,
4-3-87
My dear Mother,

I received yours dated 20th of January and was surprised that you did not receive photo of this place which was posted 27th November and hope that it has not gone astray. I am glad to hear that you and all are well with the exception of the baby. We are all pretty well except myself as I have not yet got clear of this eruption and I shall write to Sam about it. I have been bathing it with gum leaves and I drink the native ….. which grows in plenty around and I think it is wearing away. This season has been exceptionally hot. One day it was 95 degrees in lantern. So you may guess what it be in the country and there has been a great deal of sickness. I received a letter from Uncle E which I forwarded to Luke but have not received any from him yet. His Uncle Luke Coates died in London some time back and Sam would have to write to the Harris’s in Dublin who are Lukes cousins for information stating that it was at his desire?. I cannot think that it is the diet that has caused this as we live well and have plenty of fresh meat and vegetables. So hoping that you will get safely over the cold weather and with love from all,

I remain,

Dear Mother,

Ever your affect son

J.C. Parkinson