America, S. S. Nevada, off New York, July 8, 1872.
President Albert Carrington:
Dear Brother: Our voyage has been rather a lengthy one; during the first few days the weather was as disagreeable as in mid-winter, cold, showery and rough with a strong headwind. The vessel rolled badly and most of [p.474] the folks were seasick. On the 3rd instant it cleared up, since which time it has been gradually improving, though what wind there has been has been unfavorable, but the last two or three days have been warm and pleasant and the sea smooth.
The health of the Saints has been very good, and a most excellent, cheerful, kindly spirit has prevailed. I have not heard a cross word or a murmur of complaint since we left Liverpool. The good feeling has been universal, and the officers of the vessel and the stewards have done their upmost to make the Saints comfortable. The midships have been kept very clean, and when the warm weather set in, wind sails were lowered into the compartment to increase the ventilation.
Several meetings have been held by the Scandinavian Saints, and one by the English portion of the company, when instructions suited to the circumstances of the people were given by the elders.
A little girl belonging to one of the Scandinavian families died during the night, one other is quite sick and feverish.
We passed Sandy Hook at 8:20 a.m. today, and expect to leave for the West at noon tomorrow by special train.
All the returning missionaries are well, and with brother R. Grix join in kind remembrance. My health has much improved.
Your brother in the gospel,
George Reynolds. [p.475]
BIB: Reynolds, George, [Letter], Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star 34:30 (July 23, 1872) pp. 474-75. (CHL)
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