Alecia

Dear Jannie,                                                                                                                                   Sept.29 1865

       Since I've moved to Newfoundland I have already been elected a lucky member of parliament. Life on the island has been pretty easy going however it's nothing like life in Britain. In Newfoundland we have no worries about American attacks because we are surrounded by water and we depend on the Britain army second to none. Also another reason why life is so different here is because Newfoundland has no roads and even if I'm simply going to a friends house for dinner we're forced to travel by boat.

        That reminds me of our many political situations at the moment. Our largest industry for fishing and seal hunting went bad in the begining of the 1860's and we're begining to spend nearly 1/3 of all money to help the poor. Things are not looking good from a political stand point. Just last week sailors began spotting French Warships and now many villagers are questioning Britain and their navy in case of trouble with France.

      To top of all of the political issues Confederation is coming soon and if wa joined we would lose our independence. Also due to the distance between us and Canada West were Ottawa is located we wouldn't have much of a say. If we happened to join there would be a slight chance of losing my job.

     Dispite all of the political issues I am enjoying life on Newfoundland for the most part. I miss you very much and I am looking forward to your visit. Please wright back in your spare time.

                                                                                                                                         Love Bob