My dear Mother,

It is with pleasure I write you these few lines trusting they find you enjoying good health. I had a letter from Aunt Agnes a few days ago, she is quite well. I have written to her by this Mail. I am very busy just now, my comrade here the Superintendent has left. I applied for the situation but it has not been filled up yet. Captain WILLIAMS told me that he had made up his mind to make me officiating for the present on 50 rupees a month extra and I have got my pay rises up to 150 rupees from the first of January, which make me 200 a month now.

I have no time at all to myself at present. Little Jamie is keeping quite well, also big Jamie. The weather here is beautiful just now. I will try and give you all the news in my next. The mail leaves tomorrow and I have a lot of work to do but there is a satisfaction in knowing you are pleasing your superiors, and Capt WILLIAMS has told me as much and that he should be very sorry to part with me.

Send me all the news and Dear Mother find out what it will cost for a nice small portrait Photographic Camera wit a good supply of chemicals.  Write soon.

I remain Dear Mother

Your affectionate Son

James Johnston

Arrived March 27 1862