Dear Brother,--We again take pleasure in giving you further information concerning our journey to the promised land.

We left Queenstown harbor at 1 o'clock on Sunday afternoon, May 25th, all the Saints on board feeling cheerful and happy. In the evening we convened to worship in the steerage, and enjoyed the presence of the Holy Ghost, which was very comforting.

For three days after leaving Queenstown, the weather was warm and lovely, the sea calm and peaceful, and nothing to interfere with our happiness save a little seasickness. But on the fourth day the wind commenced to blow, the sea was very rough, and the waters frequently sweeping the deck, caused the Saints to remain below. With slight intervals, this storm continued for three days, during which time nearly all the elders and Saints were very sick; the weather was very cold, owing to our being surrounded by icebergs, which, when visible, presented a lovely picture.

Sunday, June 1st, all the Saints were fully recovered from seasickness, and having been requested by the purser, we attended Church of England service held in the saloon, and took lead in the singing.

Having obtained permission from the captain, we fully purposed holding meeting on deck in the afternoon; but, owing to the inclemency of the weather, we were necessitated to assemble in the steerage, and although laboring under a disadvantage, for the atmosphere was very close, we had a heavenly feast not soon to be forgotten; the brethren [p.394] spoke with freedom and much power, and the Saints rejoiced exceedingly.

Every morning and evening we have met with the Saints, instructed them in relation to their duties, and offered prayer and praise to our dear Father in Heaven.

All the officers have been very kind and courteous; in short, their conduct has been all that could be desired.

Since the lst of June we have had very pleasant sailing and lovely weather, and all has been peace and enjoyment. We arrived at New York at 8 o'clock this morning. Our luggage was passed without any difficulty whatever. We are now at Castle Garden, waiting to pass the custom house officers, and anticipate having no difficulty whatever. We leave for Norfolk at 3 o'clock this afternoon.

We feel very thankful to God for his mercies and providence in conducting us safely over the mighty deep, and pray for his blessings to attend us during the remainder of our journey, that we may be privileged to arrive at our destination in peace and safety.

Ever praying God's blessing to attend you in your endeavors to spread the glad tidings of great joy, and with love to all in the covenant of peace, we remain your affectionate brethren,

John H. Hayes,Henry Tilley,Thomas D. Brown,Joseph Eckersley, secretary. [p.395]

BIB: Hayes, John H., et. al., [Letter], Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star 52:25, (June 23, 1890) pp. 394-95. (CHL)
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