Ah Quan letter
Date Published
: remittances, letters, villages
: Indian Ocean Coast (WA)
: Cossack
: 1886
Letter from his nephew to Chin Ah Quan
Letter to Ah Quan
Such letters back and forth between those in Australia and family in the village were very common. Unfortunately, the survival of such letters before the 20th century are extremely rare and this one, although undated, must have been sent before Ah Quan's death in 1886. This makes it one of, if not the, earliest surviving example of these letters.
Letters from those in Australia always carried a remittance and lack of money usually meant no letter was sent. Those from the families in the villages usually mentioned village or family conditions with an emphasis on the need for more money.
For a comprehensive and fascinating account of the remittance system see: Dear China: Emigrant Letters and Remittances, 1820–1980 by Gregor Benton and Hong Liu, University of California Press, 2018.
A rough AI inspired translation is:
After a long separation we often think of you. We trust that Uncle Gwan Tiong is in good health and that everything nearby is going well, which brings us comfort.
In the middle of last month you requested certain things.
Yesterday, on the thirtieth day of the fourth month, we received the remittance you sent and everything arrived safely. However, earlier in the middle of the month you had already sent a letter stating that fifteen yuan had been remitted together with three lengths of blue cloth. In addition two yuan in silver was sent, which has also been received in full, so you need not worry.
We now send another letter for your attention.
Uncle Suung Dok has already reached very advanced age and is quite frail. As a son it is proper to support and care for him while there is still time. If he may yet enjoy some remaining years, it would be best to make plans early to return home. One should cherish the days remaining and not allow a lifelong regret to arise. We also hope you will send money home soon so that Uncle will not continue to worry.
These few lines are written in reply; please take note.
At present it is the beginning of summer and the weather alternates between cold and heat. Please take good care of yourself.
With respectful regards. Nothing further to add.
Also, Uncle sent a letter earlier this month and it has already been forwarded to you.
Respectfully,
Your nephew
Chin Tsz Chiu
Source: Ah Quan - AU WA S2323- cons5795 1885/15 (WA State Archives)
