S. S. Minnesota, July 18, 1874.President Joseph F. Smith.

Dear Brother,--At the time of writing these lines we are about 700 miles distant from New York. We have had headwinds ever since we left the coast of Ireland; the sea was rough, so much so that almost all the passengers were seasick. Of our people there were only two escaped seasickness--one a child three months and a man 84 years old.

We have been well treated by the officers, stewards and the whole crew. The captain has acted like a father towards us and requested, if there should be any neglect, to be informed of it. We have been supplied with wholesome food, the stewards doing their best to make all our passengers comfortable.

We have endeavored to keep good order, and avoided to ask for anything unreasonable. Peace and harmony have been with our little company, up to the present time, and we trust that no bad reports of us will ever reach your ears.

We feel thankful to our Heavenly Father for his protecting care over us, thus far, and we trust in him to enable us to reach our mountain home in safety.

Your brother in the gospel,

John Keller.

July 20th.

Yesterday at noon we took a pilot on board. During the last day or two, and nights, we have had very foggy weather. Our steamer stopped several times last night to prevent smaller vessels coming in contact with us. It is now clearing up, and we expect to reach New York tonight or tomorrow morning, early.

21st.

Arrived; all well. We leave here for Utah tomorrow. Brother Staines has left for Salt Lake City.

J. K. [p.521]

BIB: Keller, John [Letter], Latter-day Saints Millennial Star. 36:33 (August 18, 1874) p. 521. (CHL)
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