Received 28.3.92
Answered 4-4-92
Gulf of Mexico
Grimsby.
31 January 1892
My dear Chris,
Yours of 7 December was forwarded to me from home just before leaving London on 26 January. If this letter takes as long coming as yours did, you won’t have much time to spare if you intend coming south.
The worst part of it is that I cannot tell you anything definite even now. As far as I know we shall leave London the end of next month (February) for Melbourne to Sydney. It is pretty certain that we do not go to Brisbane as the loss was so heavy last trip. After discharging at Sydney our route will probably be to Singapore touching at Thursday Island, but that only to land our pilot. If there is any change to this I will write again.
I have written to Tasman but received no reply yet. Will call on him when I am in town next week and settle with him if not already done.
I daresay I can pick up some good cigars at Santa Cruz where we call for coals. It is a free port of course. If so will forward them on from Sydney if I don’t see you. You might write me there telling me your plans. McArthur & Co are the agents.
I was home for about ten days but laid up most of the time. Father was also very poorly and is yet in bed, but is improving.
May appears to be a little dissatisfied with her present abode, but I have written and urged her to remain for the present. It is useless her coming home and she would find it difficult to get the money she is at present getting.
Edie says she is writing so she will tell you her prospects of getting a place.
I don’t see much chance of promotion this trip but hope to get it next.
I am sorry Pixley did not get the billet in connection with Foster’s but for which he was trying. He seemed very down in luck when I saw him in Brisbane.
Hoping business is looking up with you, and with kind love to Alex
Believe me, your affectionate Brother,
A G Elmslie