55 Queensberry St
Carlton
20 April 1886
My dear Chris
I suppose that my letter to you has miscarried since you have not received it. In it I answered all your questions.
The pay I am getting is five shillings a week and I am afraid there is not much prospect of a rise for the very reason which you mentioned, namely that the principals of the firm know that I may very probably leave, because Father had told them so at the beginning. My board and lodging costs me eighteen shillings a week and Father left ₤25 with Mr Crosby giving me also ₤3 on the last night. Thus, unless my pay is raised to ten shillings a week in June, I shall not get through.
Father was very undecided about me all along. One night he would tell me to go up to you at once if you sent for me. The next night he would tell me on no account to go up to you.
I shall be glad when I get out of this work because it is not at all pleasant. Thus today we have been all day in a bag of nitrous fumes, which act on the eyes and throat making both very sore. But what I most dislike is putting up chloride of lime which unfortunately comes very frequently. It makes the throat swell and at the smell of it at most prevents us from seeing things. I shall be glad when I can get some office work.
Chris Tatham is getting on very well and very likely will get a rise in June.
I do not know many people here, only her families to one of which, by name the Murtons, we were introduced by Miss Reisky, and the other, is the family of the doctor on board on the voyage when Chris came out. But as the lady of the family has a violent hatred for our family, I am have not got much into their favour.
No one thought of introducing me anywhere but at the last moment they gave me some addresses but, as most likely the people have never heard of me, I do not like to go.
I will write again soon.
I remain, your affectionate Brother
A B Elmslie