S. S. Wyoming, April 21st, 1880.President William Budge.

Dear Brother,--We have just taken aboard the pilot and are now anxiously looking for Sandy Hook. We expect to arrive at New York sometime tonight and land in the morning.

We have had a pretty rough passage and are not sorry that we are soon to have a change. On Monday night, 12th instant, the wind began to blow and the waves to show their power. The vessel rocked unmercifully, and soon nearly everybody began to feel and look rather peculiar. We had strong head winds nearly all the time up to Sunday, 18th, on which day it was much more pleasant. On Sunday night the wind began to blow again and, till Monday night, the waves ran mountains high and nearly all hands were again seasick. Yesterday and today it has been fine. The sea has gone down, the sun is now shining, and everybody is happy. It is surprising how soon one forgets seasickness after it is all over.

Notwithstanding the rough weather, etc., the Saints have manifested a good spirit and, generally speaking, have done all they could for the comfort of one another. Captain Rigby, Mr. Thorpe and indeed all the ship's officers and servants have done what they could to add to our comfort, and if any preference has been shown it has been to our people.

We are sorry to have to report one accident. During the storm Sister [Ann] Aveson was going up the hatchway when the ship gave a lurch and she fell to the bottom, striking her forehead, which resulted in congestion of the brain. She was out of her mind and raved considerably. The doctor thought [p.300] it was serious and said she would have to be left at New York. But after she was administered to she began to get well, and with the blessings of the Almighty, she will be able to continue her journey with the Saints to the far west. Some of the sisters deserve commendation for their kind attentions to her.

On Sunday we held three meetings. In the afternoon a number of strangers, cabin passengers, attended and seemed much interested. The instructions given by the brethren were good and an excellent spirit was enjoyed by all who participated in the services.

We have had prayers and hymns regularly, most of the Saints participating. Each evening when the weather would permit, the Saints have met together and enjoyed themselves singing, reciting, etc. Taking all in all, we have had a pleasant passage, and we realize and acknowledge that the protecting hand of the Lord has been over us.

Kind regards to all. Ever praying for the prosperity of the work of the Lord in the European Mission and throughout the world, we are,

Your brethren in the gospel,

James L. Bunting, president,John L. Blyth [Blythe], counselor,Isaac Smith, counselor,George R. Emery, clerk. [p.301]

BIB: Bunting, James L. et. al. [Letter], Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star 42:19, (May 10, 1880) pp. 300-01. (CHL)
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