New York,July 21st, 1880President William Budge
Dear Brother,--We arrived at the docks here last night at eight o'clock, and were met by Brother [William C.] Staines, who was glad to see us. We had a very pleasant voyage across the ocean, the weather being very favorable having but one or two showers. The general health of the company was excellent, considering the large number of people and the warmth of the weather. Altogether the passengers numbered 1,048 souls which, with the crew of 106, made up a total of 1,154 on board.
After leaving Liverpool on the 10th instant, we carried out your instructions in regard to organizing the company into wards, with presidents over each ward, and also appointed guards to watch during the night. The brethren have done all they could to comfort and cheer the Saints and, as a natural consequence, general satisfaction was expressed by them.
One accident occurred and that happened to a son of Brother William Farnes, who fell, while playing, and dislocated his arm. He is now on a fair way of recovery. I am happy to say that Brother Clark, who left in feeble health, is much better. On Friday evening the 16th instant, Brother C. A. Sunstrom and Sister Emma Erickson, were united in matrimony. On the 19th instant, Brother Hans Petersen's wife presented him with a daughter. Mother and child are doing well.
We have been busy this morning getting the baggage passed and arranging for the transfer of the emigrants to Castle Garden. We held four public meetings on board, and had prayers every evening at nine o'clock in the wards. The officers and stewards of the company were very kind to us, especially to the sick, for which we felt to give them a written testimonial of our appreciation. It was unanimously endorsed by the Saints, at one of our public meetings. All seemed to feel well this morning. Brother Staines unites with the brethren and myself in kindest regards to you all at the office. We will not be able to leave here until tomorrow, when we expect to depart at two o'clock in the afternoon.
Your brethren in the gospel,
N. P. Rasmussen, President.J. [John] A. Halvorsen, CounselorHugh Findlay, CounselorC. [Charles] L. French, Clerk . [p.503]
BIB: Rasmussen, Neils P., et. al., [Letter], Latter-day Saints'
Millennial Star 42:32 (Aug 9, 1880) p. 503. (CHL)
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