Iron Pot Lighthouse
June 4th 1878
My dear Mother,

I was very glad to receive your letter and learn that you continue better and that all at home are well. Poor G. Riddall has paid rather smartly for his whistles. I am sorry to hear the news but we must expect to lose spars, and sometimes ship too, if we carry too much sail and are not careful. I must send you some blue gum seed "Eucalyptus". They will grow anywhere and very fast. This is nearly our mid winter and I am going to set peas onions beans, etc. as soon as possible, and have some fine cabbage nearly ready to cut. We have enclosed now about ½ acre with a good fence and most of it is fine black soil in some places 18 in deep so we ought to have a variety this year and I am getting quite a workshop as "The Board" find us in nearly anything I ask for; even to a soldering iron so that I have employment for fine weather and rough, besides trying to teach the young idea how to shoot? I am learning not to bother over anxiously about the future but to endeavour how to do the best I can in the present and to be content with my lot. You see there are no appearances to keep up here. Well that is so much saved. I only put my good clothes on sometimes on Sunday by the way of airing them and my good boots, would you believe it do not want soleing yet although they are nine months old. Last time I was up I bought shoemaking tools and leather so we can mend when required which is pretty often the case as the youngsters prove that leather is softer than rocks. I have not had all the children evaxinated yet but intend to soon, altho there is no smallpox here. I cannot say that the youngsters are making great progress, but I endeavour to teach them a little nearly every day. George will be smart and Maria is inclined to be precocious. Annie is getting a don at crochet and I think my namesake will not be far behind. I sent Willy’s photo in my last and I hope you will like it and you shall have baby’s first opportunity. I hope you will not go to any expense sending things out as I am sure times must be hard at home. I hope that you will all endeavour to look at the bright side. Chris sends a lock of baby’s hair. All here are well and send their love. Mrs Upton, Mr Babington and Luke are well. Love to sisters and brothers and remember me to Joe and Sophy, Miss L etc and hoping that you may continue to enjoy health and every other blessing. I remain dear mother ever your affect son

James C Parkinson

I rec’d the Pansy