On board S. S. Wyoming, about 250 miles from New York, 9 a.m., Nov. 3, 1876.President A. Carrington.
Dear Brother,--Under the blessing of the Almighty, we have thus far proceeded on our journey Zionward. To say that we have had an excellent voyage, so far at least, and with every prospect of a favorable termination, scarcely expresses the splendid voyage we have had. Officers and crew all say that it has been unparalleled in any season of the year for favorable wind and weather, and an almost total absence of fog. All told, it has [p.762] rained only a few hours. The health of the company has been all that we could reasonably wish. The Saints have been exceedingly well provided for, plenty of room, plenty of good food, and a careful, thoughtful, provident steward, Mr. Charles Smith, who is entitled to great credit for his untiring efforts to make the Saints comfortable. The elders have spent much of their time in the steerage, and have held meetings for testimony and instruction; and on Thursday we held the usual fast-day meeting, at which an excellent spirit prevailed. Several cabin passengers have attended all our meetings. Tonight we have announced another meeting, and have invited all the passengers.
We anticipate casting anchor at about 7:30, tomorrow morning, hence will probably be landed about ten.
You will be pleased to learn that Sister Durran's health is much improved, as is also her children's. Sisters Barratt and Davies have endured the voyage remarkably well; the latter is in far better health than when she started. Samuel has also gone on nicely, but he sadly missed Calvin, or some one like him, to play with. We have done the best we could to make all things as agreeable as possible, and have, so far, succeeded very satisfactorily. Willard and Daisy are all right.
Please remember me kindly to all at "42," [42 ISLINGTON WAS THE ADDRESS OF THE BRITISH MISSION AT LIVERPOOL] and accept, as ever, my best wishes and prayers for your peace and prosperity, in which all join.
Your brother in the Gospel
David McKenzieP.S. Nov 4th. We anchored at 9:30 a.m. 3:30 p.m. The Saints have just started westward, all well. [p.763]
BIB: Mackenzie, David, [Letter], Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star 38:48, (Nov. 27, 1876) pp. 762-63. (CHL)
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