October 9th 1845
Dear Father,

I received your letter this morning and also one from aunt. (Tell Mamma I am getting on well. Thank aunt for her advice). I am sorry that I vexed you and Mamma so much. I am a great deal better. Please send no more for a great many of things were stolen out of my box. I bought a box of wax matches for sixpence but they were stolen and some other things. The boys do not torment me so much. I write the most and best exercise of my class, please tell me where your going or will stay at home. I like to do my lessons well to please you and look to the time with pleasure when I shall be going home I am learning as much as I can and one master says I am the best in the class I hope mama is not very ill, I would do better not to write so much as it makes me think of home. Keep up your spirits. The schoolhours are from 7 till 9 from 10 till or from 7 to 9. Thanks for? the beads in my next I shall send a ring to you mama, aunt and my sisters. Tell me if anything is wrong in this if Anny is better. Some of the class are going home at Halloween. Give by love to mamma, aunt and sisters. I remain your affectionate son J.C.P.

I like my lessons for your sake. Write plain. I hope that you are not going away from Killough. The less I write I attend better? Mr Darley gives 6 pence 3 weeks and please send a few more..... next week cash low