This page has been proofread, but needs to be validated.
48
AN EMIGRANT'S HOME LETTERS

suppose we are sure to go next month. the ship Lady Raffles, which leaves Gravesend on 27th of March, finally leaves Plymouth on the 8th April, If we go in her everything should be here by this day six weeks at the latest.

If James and his wife have linen to last them for a month, Clarinda and Anne can make the other on the voyage, but they must bring the cloth ready washed. James will have no time to lose. Tell him, and also John Varney, if you see him again, the substance of this letter as far as relates to emigration.

You will see an interesting account of the effects of transportation on society in New South Wales in the number of Chambers' Edinburgh Journal sent.

We have paid our rent out of the money which we made of the woodwork of the lathe, and other things brought from Birmingham. We could not take them with us.

I send the paper which you had before, for you to keep for anyone to see who thinks of following us. Also a small pamphlet, which you can keep for the same purpose.

Your affectionate brother,

HENRY PARKES.