August 28, 1896
Derby, New Brunswick

My Dear son, 

	We received your welcome letter and right glad to know you are living at all and well as this leaves us all at present lots of work for them that's willing to do it.  Peter and the boys had been working on the Blocks.  They have took the balisting of one for 70 dollars it is hard work, but by all hands pulling together the will come out all right.  The boys never come home but the word is there no letter from Tom yet so don't for a moment think you are forgetten you know you are welcome home at any time, it makes no difference strapped or not you have a good right to come home.  I only wish you would come and not worry yourself to death.
	Our oats looks fine and all the rest of the crops too.  It was a very dry season here and made the hay light.  The horse is growing fine alast and tows the scows for them fine. The Bell boys were both up here they are not doing much of anything.  Jim Doran is gone to Campbelton doing blocks at work for a crowd of block buildings.  Joe Kelly is still at Cambpeleton.  Henry's girls are home and send love to you.  
	Well Tom, if your oats or crops don't do as well as you expect, don't fret over it, I am sorry for you to be alone.  Don't stay alone or fretting that is my worst fault and I am sure it does no good.  Mick is as happy as the Jween and never a cent in his pocket and looking for a wife and thinks he will get one so there is much hope for you.
	There is lovely weather here now, but it will soon be fall.  I wish it was handy to get mits and socks ready for winter for you.  Peter says if you don't like that place, try and get your own out of it and pitch it.  You know what you and him was talking about.   Now rite (write) soon and let me know how your oats turned out and all the rest of your crops.
	Tell me if your health is good Tom.  Doyle is very low, he is in Consumption.  The Donovans are all well.  Susie O'Brien school teacher is boarding at Con Donovan's .  Pats and family are all well.  It is mail time, so have to close.  Now don't droy yourself to death and never mind a house did you see further.  I wish you had been at some of the big weddings.  Mrs. Dawson did not ask a Kelly, but the ones here they were not style enough for her. God helps us,  I don't know, the will live there  it every day has its days
	Good bye and God bless and spare you to come home, is the wish of your mother.
XxxFather
Don't be so long about riting (writing)