President E. [Ephraim] H. Williams, who went in charge of the company of emigrants that sailed from Liverpool on the 17th ultima, writes form New York, May 26, 1884, as follows:

As we bade farewell to you and smoothly glided down the river into the channel, the Saints fairly made the air ring with appropriate hymns and songs of Zion. Our little company seemed to be over-joyous in bidding farewell to Babylon. As soon as we got fairly started on our way, I called all the elders together and explained the difficulties under which we were placed in having so many passengers aboard that did not belong to the Church, and which made it necessary for the Saints to be much scattered through the vessel. I instructed the elders to find out the location of the Saints from their several conferences and to look after their necessities. I called Elder William S. Geddes to be my counselor and secretary with Elder William Chappell to act as assistant. Owing to our scattered condition and the difficulty of convening, we deemed it wisdom not to hold any meetings.

On leaving Queenstown on Sunday at 9 a.m., we had beautiful weather, but we encountered heavy head winds for the first four days; however, as there was a race between two other steamers and ours, which left Queenstown together, our gallant ship went plowing through the mighty waves at a great speed.

On Wednesday the wind turned to the north and blew a heavy gale all night, causing our ship to roll considerably, and creating some confusion among the passengers, but more especially among the dishes. By this time all had become quite willing to remain in bed. There was a great deal of seasickness; but as Thursday proved to be a much calmer day it also brought a more pleasant and familiar appearance to the faces of the passengers. I think without an exception all have fully recovered, and are well prepared to commence their journey across the continent.

As usual, we have received the kindest treatment from the captain and officers. The Saints all speak of it in the highest terms of praise. We have presented the captain with a testimonial expressive of our appreciation and good feelings. Our ship has made good time and was the first of the three to reach Sandy Hook by several hours, arriving at 9 p.m. on Sunday, making the trip in eight-and-a-half days.

We were met at the docks this morning by President Hart, and soon got through with the custom house officers, having no trouble with the luggage. Will leave for the west at 4:30 p.m. [p.380]

BIB: Williams, E. H., [Letter], Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star 46:24 (June 16, 1884) p. 380. (CHL)
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