Elders P. F. Goss and H. [Hyrum] H. Evans writing from on board the S. S. Nevada, Sept. 9, 1883, say:

"After leaving Queenstown at 2 p.m. Aug. 30th, we encountered head winds, which increased to a heavy gale, causing a great deal of sickness.

Friday night, Aug. 31st, was a night long to be remembered by those on board.

At 4 a.m. Sept. 1st, we were in a critical condition, as some of the steering gear broke, causing us to lay in the trough of the sea at the mercy of the waves, which washed over us in immense quantities. During this time Sister [Jane] Ross attempted to get up, and in doing so was thrown across the ship, cutting a gash about four inches long on the side of her head, and otherwise bruising herself severely; in fact, it is a wonder to all she was not killed. The doctor says she will have to stay in New York. As soon as the repairs were made and the ship under control (being uncontrollable for four hours), the captain changed our course, going forty miles to the north to ease the ship and avoid a portion of the storm. The storm continued all day, the sea running very high, tossing us about on all sides, and compelling almost everyone to lie in bed. Strong head winds continued till Sept. 5th, but they have not been so strong since, although we have had no sails up.

On the 3rd of September one of the Swedish sisters gave birth to a fine boy; mother and son doing well. On Sundays and other evenings we have held meetings, also held two concerts consisting of songs, recitations, etc., the Saints enjoying themselves very much.

On the 7th it was warm and pleasant, but all the rest of the time very cold.

At 9:30 September 8th, [p.620] we took on board the pilot, a very welcome person to all the passengers. All seem to be very well satisfied, the ship's company being as kind as we could expect.

At 8 a.m. September 9th, we saw the first land, crossed Sandy Hook at 2:30, and were met by Brother Hart. Will leave Castle Gardens tomorrow afternoon." [p.621]

BIB: Goss, P. F and Evans H. H. [Letter] Latter-day Saints Millennial Star 45:39 (September 24, 1883) p. 620-21. (CHL)
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