James Williamson, Paradise, Butte Co., California, to his brother, Robert Williamson, Ahory, Richhill, County Armagh, 4 July 1853
Description
Another excellent letter about gold mining, the hot, rainless climate, but the beautiful California countryside. Mentions the July 4th celebrations. Brilliant passages about the lack of religion in the mining camps- which clearly does not bother James at all. James has been mining, except for a month's work in a sawmill. Writer contrasts California and Ireland. Robbers avoid Paradise, because the miners would "tuck them up" (hang them). Mentions legendary outlaw Joaquin Murietta, and describes the Chinese as "a peaceable race of beings." Wants to save his income and purchase a farm. Urges Robert to emigrate, but not to California, rather to Illinois or Iowa, where he can buy a farm .