Aboard the S. S. Nevada May 22, 1886President D. [Daniel] H. Wells.

Dear Brother,--At noon today the Nevada was loosed from its moorings in the Alexandra Dock, and the slow and tedious operation of conducting her through the tortuous docks into the Mersey was begun. We were given to understand that she would drop anchor in the river and wait for the flowing of the tide at 5 p.m.; but to the delight of all the passengers, instead of dropping anchor she raised steam and pushed boldly out into the Channel. On reaching the open, five other stately vessels steamed along side, and our deck presented a mass of humanity gazing in admiration at the imposing spectacle.

After dinner the company of Saints was sectioned off and organized into wards, with an experienced person in charge of each section, that the order, comfort and convenience of all may be promoted to the utmost. The sea is smooth, and the day pleasant and exceptionally clear for this humid atmosphere, having just clouds enough at the close to make what the Englishman calls a "jolly sunset." As the shades of evening gather round us, the passengers seem unwilling to leave the deck; some sing, others lean over the bulwarks and watch the fine tracery of foam glide swiftly by, while others gaze back at the horizon as if keenly feeling what Byron has so vividly expressed in the celebrated words:

"Adieu, adieu! my native land

Fades o'er the waters blue."

All at this hour seem buoyant in spirits, quite comfortable and contented.

The navigator tells us that we will reach Queenstown about 9 o'clock in the morning, and if possible I will add a postscript giving the condition of the company then.

I remain yours faithfully,

Ricy H. Jones

Sunday 23rd, 8:30 a.m. The "Emerald Isle" is in sight. Queenstown in half an hour, so prudence dictates the utmost possible brevity in this [p.347] postscript. The morning is as fine as last evening. No sickness as yet, nor even premonitory symptoms complained of. All continue in excellent health and buoyancy of spirits, and fondly anticipate a pleasant and speedy voyage.

R. [Ricy] H. J. [Jones] [p.348]

BIB: Jones, Ricy H., [Letter] Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star 48:22 (May 31, 1886) pp. 347- 48. (CHL)
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