Elder George Goddard writes from on board the S.S. Arizona, Nov. 2, 1884, as follows:

"At 5:30 p.m. yesterday, by the aid of a friendly tide, our vessel was enabled to leave here mooring and make a fair start towards her destination. We soon found ourselves steaming away at the rate of twelve to fourteen knots per hour. In a short time President J. A. Smith called the elders together to talk over what arrangements would be necessary for the proper regulation of our affairs while crossing the briny ocean. George Goddard was appointed secretary and Leo. H. Clawson assistant secretary. Brother Smith also requested the nine elders present to render him what assistance would be needed for the comfort, safety and well-being of the Saints on board. After having prayers together, we all repaired to the permanent steerage, found all the Saints happy and singing lustily: 'O Babylon, we bid thee farewell.'

At the conclusion President J. A. Smith was introduced to them as having charge of the company, and in a kind fatherly manner gave the Saints all necessary instructions, as to being cleanly in their persons, discreet in their deportment, retiring to bed in good season, rising early, and particularly in regard to remembering their prayers night and morning, at which times the elders would meet them. To all of these things the Saints, with uplifted hands, promised submission. Prayer was then offered by Elder George Goddard, after which other songs were sung, and all the Saints felt that it was good to be there. It was very evident that most, if not all present, were on the Lord's side; at least, you would naturally think so from the way they took up the chorus.

Early this (Sunday) morning we found many of the Saints passing through a similar experience to what others have before them. The breakfast table was not crowded; quite a few were in bed and didn't want to get up; some had been sick--others wanted to and couldn't, and many were sitting out on deck, with warm wraps around them, waiting for something to turn up.

It is now ten o'clock, and we have just reached Queenstown. All the Saints are on deck, washed and clean; some have partially recovered, and others are anxiously waiting to do so. All the Utah elders and Sister Hopwood and daughter were prompt in their chairs at the breakfast table, which fully explains our situation. We are all well, and feel in our hearts to bless and praise God our Heavenly Father for his watch care over us thus far.

Weather fine; cool, pleasant breeze." [p.716]

BIB: Goddard, George, [Letter], Latter-Day Saints' Millennial Star, 46:45 (November 10, 1884) p. 716. (CHL)
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