13 Fenchurch Avenue
London
11 August 1882
My dear Chris
We have heard of your scare passing the Canal. Glad the Egyptians did not attack you. I expect you were rather in a stew until you got through.
We had your letter from Malta and pleased to know that you were so comfortably placed both with Capt and Officer. From all I hear you are pretty sure to succeed in getting it fast so you must stick to it and persevere as to reach the position of chief. Without something more promising turn up for you meantime. You can serve now as chief after serving a fourth twelve months as Master after serving twelve months as second.
Northey has sailed in command of the John Rennie from Adelaide. A young man named ?? will go as Chief who I think will do well. Passengers are not turning up as fast as I would like to see them so I suppose the ship will not be as full as usual.
Archie and Alec have been down the river to Lyme and seem to have enjoyed their trip very much. The weather has been perfect. They came home tonight.
I will write by the next mail to meet you at Adelaide with more time.
I have turned away the old gardener at last.
Trusting you got through the Red Sea well although the heat must have been great.
Your ever loving Father.
J A Elmslie