cam_hparker_2311_f005_001.4

Since Sunday the 23rd of December, the weather here in
San Francisco has been clear and cold. Much colder
than I ever knew it to be before, for so long a time.

I must say I have really suffered, from the effects
of the cold. My ears and fingers would ache after
being out an hour or two. so that I was obliged to
get beside a fire. Water and mud in shady location
did not thaw for three or four days.

We have had no more as yet nor do I think we
shall, as it is much warmer today then it has been
before for a week, but back in the mines among
the mountains, they have already had a considerable

A sleigh I have never seen, nor a sled since I
left home, and I expect I shall not see one now,
until I get home again. Cold weather, would now,
I think, take hold of me severely, as I have been away
from it for so long a time, still I think I should
[?] to have a good sleigh ride, and perhaps a change
of climate, and a spell of cold weather would do me
good, providing I took care of myself properly --

At any rate if I was at home, now, do not
know as I should come to California for the sake
of getting into warm weather again.

Having already written you a dull, and long letter
I will bid you good night and draw to a close --

Please give my love to our friends, and tell them
I wished them all "a happy new year and a merry
Christmas" I am and ever hope to be

Your loving Son & Brother

H. A. Parker [Henry A. Parker]