New York, Sept. 12, 1888.President George Teasdale.

Dear Brother,--It affords me pleasure to comply with your request in sending a few lines in regard to the travels of the company thus far. I shall briefly note the principal events of our voyage from Queenstown.

The first three days were stormy and rough and occasioned much [p.651] seasickness. Some of the Saints, spent the whole voyage in bed; Elder [J. W.] Brown was ill most of the way.

After the first three days we sailed comparatively smoothly, with favorable wind. We attended to our duties as much as possible, holding meetings, praying, etc. Good order and peace prevailed during our whole voyage. The captain and officers did their whole duty toward us, of which we expressed our appreciation in a written statement.

At 2 p.m. on the 11th we landed. Every box and all baggage was opened and carefully examined by the customs officers. Mr. Gibson, the agent, was there to receive us, and kindly gave assistance, transferring us at once to the Old Dominion. In passing Castle Garden four children were detained until next morning. This was occasioned (on the part of three) by the neglect of those having immediate charge of them. The children were promptly returned to the company next morning. But on the 4th a girl from Sweden, 15 years old, was detained by her sister, who resides in New York. This young woman, about 20 years old, demanded the detention of her sister on the plea that she had no relatives in Utah, although the girl strongly remonstrated against stopping; but her sister prevailed on the officers to hold her; so we were forced to leave her, but we hope she will follow ere long, at any rate when her father and mother come.

We left New York at 3 p.m. today (12th). The agents and officers of the Dominion Line are courteous and pay special attention to the comfort of our company. I have not heard a word of complaint or murmuring during the whole voyage. The brethren have worked unitedly for the welfare of the Saints, and the people have manifested a feeling of gratitude for our services.

We are now in sight of Norfolk, and have had a very pleasant voyage from New York; all are feeling well.

The brethren and Saints join in kind regards to yourself and brethren at the office. Very respectfully, your brother in the gospel,

A. [Abraham] Johnson. [p.652]

BIB: Johnson, Abraham, [Letter], Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star 50:41 (Oct. 8, 1888) pp. 651-52. (CHL)
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