Liverpool, England, Tuesday, Jan. 18, 1876. Started from Bishop's Grove at 6 1/4 a.m. and walked to Euston Square with Brother Fowler. I carried a heavy valise and was in such a perspiration when I got there that I was wet all over. After I sat down in the car the sweat came through my overcoat and wet the back & bottom of my seat. I never was in such a state in my life. We were barely in time for I had barely taken my seat when the train started. Reached Liverpool by 1 o'clock p.m. Am accompanied by Brother Holmes and family, 10 in number, and Sister Christe and five children. The company including myself numbers seventeen (17). I came directly to the office where I was cordially received by Elder Carrington and family. Brother Carrington told me he had been reportedly cautioned by President Young not to keep the [p.30] elders in this country a day when he found that the climate did not agree with them, that a son of Brother Kimball's lost his life by staying here a little too long. He thought it a very lucky coincidence that this little party of Saints are going just now when he thinks I ought to be on the way home. I can see Brother Carrington does not like there being so many elders here in England. He says they eat up all the tithing and everything else. I am satisfied from what he says that he intends to work us off his hands and send us home as fast as he can. He says that the mission is five thousand pounds in debt now. I have been helping Brother Holmes with his and my things down to the Princess landing to send off to the Montana that is just out in the river.
I had to sign a blank note for my passage to Ogden. It will likely be from seventeen to nineteen pounds. I have [p.31] borrowed two pounds of Brother Carrington for contingent expenses on the way home which will be added to my note and make it probably 19 or 21pounds. This is something I was not prepared for. I had thought that the church defrayed the expenses of the elders home, but it is alright I presume. . . .
Brother Carrington has just been telling me that it is left entirely with President Young to say whether I shall pay for my fare home or not. He says for me to go to him at my earliest convenience and ask him if he wants me to pay it and if he says no, have the note canceled immediately. They may [p.32] want me to pay all or a part of it, perhaps nothing. The two pounds that I have borrowed I will of course have to pay.
Brother C. [Carrington] says there are too many elders for the mission to profitably use, their clothes and traveling expenses eat up the means. Told me again that his most positive orders from President Young are not to keep the elder here a day after he knows that the climate is affecting their lungs, that delays in such matters here are very dangerous. It is never necessary for an elder to risk his life in this way. If the climate doesn't agree with some, it will with others. . . .[p.33]
. . . Liverpool, Jan.19, 1876. 10 o'clock a.m. Arose this morning feeling much better than I expected after my heavy sweat in the railroad yesterday. Sister Carrington has fixed a nice piece of flannel with strips to tie to it around my chest, the flannel saturated with consecrated oil and turpentine. She thinks I will derive much benefit from it. God bless her. Received a very comforting letter from Fanny dated 29th ultimate. It was remailed to me from London by Brother Binder. Folks at home all well for which thank God.
I had a talk with Brother Sharp. He says I ought to be very thankful that there was one over me in this mission who thought enough of me to send me home with this cough. If I had my cough he would be afraid it would grow to [p.36] something serious before spring. He thinks that crossing the sea will of itself heal my lungs and that I will go home well.
Went out and bought a couple of hair brushes, 4 shillings & 3 shillings, 6 demies and a couple of dressing combs 1 shilling, 6 demies each. Also a pair of suspenders and 6 collars. Bought also a pint of Irish whiskey, 2 shillings, 6 demies.
I am now about to go down to the landing and on board the steamer. To God, my Heavenly Father, do I commend myself asking Him to protect me on my voyage homeward, that I may go in peace and safety according to the promise I had when set apart for this mission.
Ernest has just told me that he has included my passage from London here in my note 12 shillings, 6 demies. It is 202 miles. [p.37]
Steamship Montana
Wednesday, Jan. 19, 1876. 4 o'clock p.m. Rode down to the Prince's Landing in a cab at 11:40 a.m. with President Carrington, wife, and two sons and Brother Sharps. Brother E.T. Young came down ahead of us. All had dinner on board by invitation of the captain after which they all returned to the shore leaving us to pursue our voyage. The captain's name is C.J. Beddoe. I go first cabin. Have splendid quarters. It is fitted up like a palace.
After we started found that a Brother John Eccles of Ogden had come aboard with a cousin of his bound for home. Brother E. [Eccles] has not been here more than a week or two. Came over to hunt up his genealogy and to get this cousin out to the Valley. He wants to borrow money of me to pay his cousin's [p.38] fare. Of course cannot accommodate him for I have not got the money. He smokes and drinks with the officers of the ship and is hail fellow well met with them, not the kind of man I fancy for a traveling companion at all. He has taken a stateroom next to mine.
Sunday, Jan.23, 1876 - Just three months since I left home. It seems like an age. I was taken seasick within three hours after leaving Liverpool and have been horribly sick almost ever since, eating scarcely nothing at all. Administered to myself several times. One evening got Brother Eckles [Eccles] and Holmes to administer to me. The first night out we had a terrible wind storm. Were compelled for safety to stop the ship in the midst of the channel. Thursday, Thursday night, and Friday we had pretty fair weather and made splendid [p.39] headway. Friday night, however, a storm arose which by yesterday grew to fearful proportions. Our ship plowed through waves that seemed mountains high, very often shipping waves that covered her deck from stem to stern with two feet of water. Last night was the most awful I ever spent on this earth. Huge waves rolled over the deck, staggering the ship and making it tremble like a leaf. Brother Eckles did not go to bed all night, he was so uneasy. I went to bed after taking off my clothes as usual. I was too sick to sit up if I had wished. Somehow or other I did not feel uneasy and slept peacefully, awaking once in a while when a sea larger than usual was shipped and going to sleep again when the noise had subsided somewhat. At 6 o'clock this morning [p.40] Brother Eckles [Eccles] came to my room and acknowledged that he was really uneasy. Just then I heard one of the stewards exclaimed, "My God if that wave strikes us we can never recover from it." I got up, dressed myself, and staggered into the saloon just as the ship was shaking this huge wave from it's decks. The sight and sounds outside were truly fearful. I went back into my room and kneeling down asked the Lord to give me power to rebuke the winds and waves that the ship might go safe into port for my sake and for the sake of the few Saints on board. I then came back into the saloon and sat down. I had not been there long before Brother Eckles [Eccles] came running in to tell me that a huge wave that had just struck the ship had stove in a window in the captain's room and that he was hurt and nearly drowned. I allowed Brother E. [Eccles or Eckles] to help me up [p.41] the hatchway to the captain's room. Found our good captain drenched to the skin, but not otherwise injured. This room was covered a foot deep with saltwater and the carpenter was replacing the windows while some boys and men were dipping up the water by the bucketful and throwing it out on deck. I went to the door that leads out into the main deck and which had been tied partly open for the purpose of ventilation and looked out on the wildest and most fearful sight that my eyes ever beheld. The wind was blowing fearfully and the waves were absolutely mountains high and sweeping the deck from stem to stern with relentless fury. It truly seemed as if we were about to be swallowed up in the depths of the ocean.
I stood there at that door looking out at the fearful sight, and [p.42] raising my heart to God for strength, I, in the name of Jesus Christ, and by the authority of the holy priesthood, rebuke the winds and waves, and commanded them to subside that our ship with it's precious freight of souls might go safe into port and called on God to seal the rebuke in heaven as I had on earth. My prayer was answered almost immediately. In less than half an hour the wind died away, the waves lessened, and the blessed sun was shining upon us. The infidel would say it would have been so anyway. I say give God the glory. Oh, praise God!
I went to the breakfast table for the first time and ate a small piece of steak and then going to my room wept for joy.
The Montana is the sister ship of the Dakota, built the same time of the same dimensions and same style and is considered one of the best afloat [p.43]. S.S. Montana, Sunday, Jan. 23/76 Noon. Since writing the foregoing the weather has grown worse again and we are shipping seas in rapid success. The sun is shining most of the time, however, and we hope to see it clear off entirely yet. On account of the high sea we are going very slowly. I am still so very sick that my stomach; can scarcely hold up my poor head. Oh God, heal me and conduct me in peace and safety to my far, distant, happy home where I can once more find rest.
1 p.m. The captain's chart just posted up says we have sailed 225 miles from noon yesterday to noon today and 1973 from New York. The captain says too that we have prospect for [-] wind and finest weather. I think that considering the head winds and rough sea we have made excellent time in the last 24 hours.
6 p.m. I have spent few more watchful afternoons than this has been. I have been so cold and miserable. Am prevented from going on deck by the cold and can [-] in comfort in the saloon even with [p.44] my overcoat and overshoes on. I have eaten so little since I came aboard that I am weak as water and so faint. I ralleyed a little half an hour ago and ate an apple and a few raisins, the first of anything I have taken since morning when I ate a small piece of chicken and a few spoonfuls of soup. I really do feel this evening as if I never could live through another sea voyage. Still, with the blessing of God, I know I can do anything but this seasickness is something fearful. It not only sickens my stomach but it affects my heart and my head, indeed my whole being to a degree that life is a burden rather than a pleasure. Often and often, both in going over and in returning I have felt that if it were not for wives and children and the obligation of the holy priesthood I would not care whether ship sank or swam. Oh, may my future mission be confined to my own native continent and yet not my will be done even in this matter but God's!
Asking God to be with me and with my dear ones at home, I now retire to my lonely bed for the night.[p.45]
Monday, January 24, 1876. The vessel rocked very little last night so that we all enjoyed a good sleeps. Had a fair wind all night and a comparatively smooth sea and therefore made excellent headway. It is now half past eleven in the morning and we are still enjoying a fair wind and a good sea. It is, however, cloudy and rainy a little so that we are confined mostly to the cabin. I ate a pretty good breakfast and feel ever so much better. Oh! thank God for all his mercies.
We have very few passengers aboard, not more than fifty all tolled, in cabin and in intermediate about 12, and in steerage about twenty eight. I have a state room all to myself.
Noon. The captain's report shows 251 miles run for east 24 hours and that we are 1722 miles from New York. He is not at all satisfied with it. He had thought we were making better time than that. He says we will have northerly wind next 24 hours with light rains at time and a good run. He still thinks to [p.46] reach port by Saturday evening next. God grant we may. The purser dreamed last night that we would cast anchor at nine o'clock on Sunday morning and says he thinks we will be doing very well to run in by that time.
2 p.m. Had just had what they call on shipboard lunch the first that I had been able to partake of. The sun has been out and has gone in again. It has been raining a little.
10 p.m. This afternoon went into the steerage and got the brethren and sisters up on deck and sat for an hour or two listening to them sing. The sun was shining and we had a pleasant time. Went down to them again about two hours ago with Brother Eccles [Eckles]. They had been singing again. When we went down the stars were shining brightly and we had a fair prospect for a comfortable night. The sun too had set so beautifully and the captain had assured us pleasant weather for at least another twenty four hours. Now, [p.47] however, all is changed again. The stars are all obscured and the wind is blowing heavy against us bringing up quite a sea that begins already to heave itself on our decks once more. Ah! How soon do things change in this world of ours. Storms and sunshine alternate in rapid succession. We never know what a day will bring forth, or when a day begins how it will end. What weak, frail creatures we human beings are. If it were not for a merciful God who rules in the heavens above us and who constantly guides and protects, what should we do. Oh, God, my Eternal Father, I ask thee for Christ's sake to bless and preserve this ship that we may make our port in peace and safety and I will praise thy name forever. [p.48]
Tuesday, January 25, 1876 - The storm reached it's height at 3 o'clock this morning. I was waked up at that hour by the tumultuous noises overhead and all around and by the sudden careening of the ship on it's side. I arose, dressed myself, and offered up a prayer for safety; after which immediately retired again and was soon asleep. Arose this morning at 8 feeling almost as sick as ever. The rolling of the ship seems to have a tremendous effect on my stomach. Managed to eat a little breakfast but did not succeed in enjoying it a particle. The warming apparatus of the saloon has been out of repair all along. This morning some of the engineers are engaged fixing it and we poor passengers are suffering with cold. It is 10 o'clock a.m. and the storm has considerably abated, though we receive a huge wave on our decks every few minutes. The sun is shining at intervals. Oh! When will this voyage be over! When shall my feet tread again the blessed land! [p.49]
Tuesday Jan. 25 continued.
Noon. The captain invited me into his cabin an hour ago where I had a conference and interesting interview with him. He showed me his wife's picture of whom he seems proud and very fond. Says before he was married he cared very little what kind of weather he encountered, now he prefers fair weather as it makes him feel better about home. I showed him my dear wive's pictures, also one of President Young. He thanked me and seemed pleased to know I was neither shamed or afraid to own my polygamist priestesses. President Young he thinks a remarkable man, a very remarkable man. Our captain has carried over thousands of our people on the different ships he has commanded and seems to think considerable of us and our principles. He says this ship will not clear enough to pay for the provisions consumed on this voyage. She has only five hundred tons of freight aboard beside coal for the return trips. [p.50] There is so little travel now between Europe and America that these weekly lines do not pay it at all. The captain says that England is today sending iron to New York and importing many kinds of casting from there which depreciates very much considering that England might make her own castings as a matter of political economy; just the doctor and President Young has been preaching to the Latter-day Saints ever since we went to Utah. When will we ever learn the lesson!
The captain considers these ships perfectly safe when in open sea; says in a very heavy storm he could slow down to five miles an hour and would be as safe as if at anchor in a harbor. He has followed the sea from boyhood and has had the command of ships for over 23 years.
The last 24 hours we have made 254 miles which leaves us 1468 miles from New York.
9 p.m. Have spent a wretched afternoon. The winds and waves have both been high and the ship has so rolled and tossed that I could get no rest, [p.51] and I have felt so sick I could not eat. I have sat up to the table each of the four times it has been spread and tried to eat but it has been a failure each time. My stomach seems turned inside out and refuses everything. Went to bed a little while ago but was aroused by such a crash of water on the upper deck that I resolved to get up and abandon all intention to sleep until things got a little more quiet. A lot of hands are now engaged closing up the middle hatch and they make more noise than a little. It is really a fearful night. The ship has been slowed down to three or four knots an hour which shows that the captain regards the situation is serious. He is so [SIC] filled with care that he has not presented himself at [SIC] the table today. [p.52].
Wednesday, 26. - The terrible crash that I heard last night was occasioned by the sea striking over of the metallic life boats and knocking it into a cocked hat. Some of the railings on the upper deck were also broken off.
I went up into the captain's room last night and had another talk with him. Told him my faith in the gospel and in the promises of the Lord made to me through the prophets that I should return in safety. Bore my testimony to him that I know Mormonism to be true, &c. He listened very respectfully and remarked two or three times, "You have a very strange religion." I thought he seemed very much impressed. He told me that this weather is nothing unusual. He says he has often seen the cabins half full of water. He said last evening there was a grand display of heaven's fireworks on deck, that balls of fire rested on the masts and yard arms. These he often sees accompanying heavy gales of wind. [p.53] When high up, they indicate the breaking up of the storm. It put me in mind of the stories that I used to hear my father tell of the sights he had seen at sea.
One of the cabin passengers got his ankle and foot hurt last evening through the falling of a ladder against it. I did not get to bed until 4 o'clock this morning. The constant rolling & pitching of the ship made me so sick and feel so badly that I could not lie down or rest in any way. Finally things got a little quiet and I slept about two hours. Got up this morning feeling but little better. Found the sea a little smoother and the sky a little clearer and the ship rolling a little less than when I went to bed. Ate about half a breakfast and then crawled down into the steerage to see my little company of Saints. It is now nearly noon. The sun is shining and we have indications of finer weather. Are going only about [p.54] 8 knots an hour. We are safe, however, for which thank God. 109 miles today.
6 p.m. Spent a most miserable afternoon. My stomach so deranged I cannot enjoy anything. I cannot relish my food, eat almost nothing. I cannot walk about neither can I read for rolling of the ship. I can do nothing but sit and patiently suffer as the hours drag wearily on.
Had a long talk with the captain about the lighthouses and lightships of England.
Had a talk with the chief engineer. Among other things, he wanted to know how we Mormons contrived to manage so many wives. I told him it was easy enough. We made each wife faithfully promise to manage herself. He thought that a good idea.
The weather is still moderating and the sea getting smoother. I hope to have a good night's rest. [p.55]
Thursday, Jan. 27, 1876. 9 a.m - Went to bed early and the Lord being pleased in much goodness to give us a smoother sea. I enjoyed a comfortable night's sleep until 7 this morning. Soon after daylight a dense fog came on which made things very dark and the old ship began blowing her melancholy fog whistle. The fog has lifted now and we are having a heavy snowstorm. The whistle sounds every minute as a warning to all boats that may be in our vicinity to keep out of the way. The wind is pretty strong but in our favor and we are making good headway.
Our cabin passengers are: Mr. & Mrs. Jenkins of Virginia, Brother John Eccles [Eckles], two Scotchmen going to New York to take a berth on a Havanna steamer as engineers, Mrs. Clements & Hunter, and myself.
I feel ever so much better this morning and had relished a good breakfast.[p.56] The name of the ship's purser is Thorp. He is about thirty. He is a short, thick set, bigoted little Englishman of very small mental caliber. Our lady passenger who is a Virginian told him last night there was not accounting for the conceit of some people.
Our chief engineer's name is Alexander. He is an old Scotchman with a good head on his shoulders and said to be an expert in his business.
The chief steward of the saloon is also a short, thick-set Englishman. He is very attentive to the wants of the passengers but a very tyrant over those under his control particularly over the cabin boy whom he seems to have a grudge against. I am often sorry for the little fellow when I see the abuse to which he is subjected. The doctor is an Irishman and is a greenhorn and a greenhand.
Since writing the foregoing, have been told that last night was one of the roughest of the voyage. I must have slept well simply because I was worn out. [p.57]
Thursday, January 27 continued. 1 o'clock p.m. A fearfully wild day. The wind high and the waves higher. There have been three cases of accident under the hands of the doctor this morning. One woman in the steerage had two of the hands, each of them a fall and pretty badly hurt. The ship rolls so that getting about in her at all is dangerous. I stick pretty close to the cabin.
The captain's chart at noon records 246 miles since noon yesterday, a good run for the weather we have had. 1113 miles from New York.
9 p.m. Four accidents today. Since 1 o'clock the sea has gone down and so has the wind considerably in answer to my most earnest prayer. The officers, some of them, say they have seldom seen such a gale as we have had this forenoon. The captain was out on the bridge all last night and until [-] o'clock this p.m. He never acknowledges that we [p.58] are having bad weather until the worst is over. He told me today, however, that we were certainly having exceedingly rough weather. It has been snowing as well as blowing nearly all day. It has made my heart ache to see the poor captain and mate exposed on the bridge to the pitiless storm; also, the poor deck hands. The poor fellows have a rough life of it. I understand the captain gets £500 a year for his services besides his uniform. He certainly earns every penny of it. He is trying to get the position of dock master in Liverpool at half that wage. I hope he will get it.
Have been down in the steerage this evening singing and praying with the Saints. They feel well notwithstanding the storms and their many discomforts. The chief engineer helped me along very kindly over the most dangerous part of the deck which is slipping with ice. It is a cold night. [p.59]
Friday, Jan. 28, 1876 - 9a.m. Went to bed early last night and had a glorious night's rest. No pitching, no rolling. Oh, it was delicious. When I awakened this morning and realized the greatness of God's blessings to me, my heart was full to overflowing and I felt to shout praises to his great name. The ship has not rolled once this morning. We therefore ate our breakfast in peace.
The last two or three nights have found my bed damp. The stewards say everything about the ship is damp. Not only does the water come in from the outside a little, but the ship being of iron, sweats more or less and damps everything. Our saloon is warmed by steam pipes and as more or less steam is all the time escaping. That too helps to moisten things up.
Noon. Soon after writing the above, went into the steerage. Found the good folks there all well but suffering with cold, the heating apparatus being out of order. Brother Holmes was putting his family through a warming-up exercise consisting of a tramping up and down the [p.60] deck to time kept by the clapping of his hands. I felt truly sorry for the poor woman and children.
Spent an hour or two on the upper deck walking back and forth enjoying the fresh sea air. Took a look at the lifeboat whose bows were stove in by the waves. The iron railing wrenched and snapped in two by the same agency. Also, at the main hatchway that was literally washed away, it looks like desolation itself. The captain says it was one of the heaviest gales he has seen for years. I am truly thankful that we got off so easily. May God grant our storms be over for the voyage. The men were sweeping the snow off the decks. The sea was calm. No wind. Making good time.
Eight bells just sounded. Noon. On board ship. Eight bells sound three times every twelve hours viz-at 12, 4, and 8 o'clock.
Home, sweet home. Oh, how I long for thee! Have made 316 miles last 24 hours. Are 797 miles from New York. The captain predicts moderately fine weather and a smooth sea rest of voyage. [p.61]
Friday, Jan.28 continued - 2 p.m. Have been up on deck since dinner promenading and thinking. Our prospects continue to be good for getting to New York Sunday evening.
The lower part of this ship is divided into 7 different compartments so that either or two or three of them might be filled with water without endangering the safety of the ship. The bows might even be stove in and the vessel be safe and pursue her course. The whole vessel is of iron and is [-] all around. It would be impossible to burn her up for there is nothing about her that is inflammable. So says the captain. She has three decks, all of iron. Every revolution of the propeller drives the vessel 28 feet through the water. The vessel consumes from 70 to a 100 tons of coal per day which brings her 3 inches out of the water. The company are building two new vessels that are to be called "Utah" & "Arizona" and are to be even larger that this one. [p.62]
6 p.m. We are having a northerly wind but it is not very strong. The captain still thinks we will have a pleasant night. We are running very smoothly today and this evening. Have enjoyed promenading the decks for the first time and have relished my meals. Have been able to read a little today too.
Commenced a letter to President Young explaining why I am returning so soon from my mission.
10 p.m. About 7 o'clock went down into the steerage and held prayers with the Saints there. Feeling sick at my stomach I ran up on deck and cast up my accounts into the sea again. Since then, have been as sick as any time during the voyage and have thrown up a lot more of horrid bile. Am better now and shall go to bed.
Haven't dreamed so much about my father since he died as I having [been] on voyage, going and returning. He comes to me almost every night. [p.63]
Saturday, Jan 29, 1876 - Had a good night's rest and waked up feeling better. The ship neither rolled nor pitched all night. The weather and the sea being unusually quiet and pleasant. Now 8 o'clock. Both the wind and sea seem to be rising again. I do hope we are not to have another storm.
11 a.m. The wind is down now to a moderate breeze and the sea is quiet. Have just returned from a visit to the steerage where the Saints had been dancing to the music of my concertina played by Brother Eccles [Eckles]. I feel quite unwell today, my stomach very much out of order yet. Have been on deck much of the time this morning talking with the captain. Told him about Joseph Smith's prophecy concerning the great Southern Rebellion so many years ago. He had never heard of it before. Considered it a very marvelous affair. Met an outward-bound sailing ship this morning. Captain Beddoe [p.64] says we will take our pilot aboard tomorrow afternoon and reach New York sometime in the night, no preventing Providence. Good news indeed. How glad I shall be to set my feet on solid land!
I have been greatly astonished during this voyage at the accuracy of the captain's predictions concerning the weather. When he has said a wind might be expected soon from a certain quarter, it has been sure to come. When he has said we will have rain in a course of an hour or two, the rain is sure to be here. When he has said we will have the sun out soon, lo and behold! the sun came. He watches his barometer and thermometer. He watches the sea, measures it's temperature from time to time. He in fact observes a thousand and one things that escapes landsmens' notice and from these he makes his calculations and is generally correct. He says in the gale the other day, our ship very often rolled beyond an angle of 50 degrees. He has an instrument for showing even that. We had another sailor hurt [p.65] this morning. A marling spike fell on him from above and made quite a wound near his spine. The cries from the poor fellow were most piteous to hear. This is the seventh accident that has occurred on board ship since we left Liverpool.
I dreamed last night that Sister Cutter was dead, also that a woman had died in childbed (Sister Fillemon, I think).
2 o'clock p.m. Have made only 304 miles today up to noon and we are still 493 miles from New York. The current is 25 miles against us. The wind is also against us and is blowing a pretty stiff breeze. The captain says the wind and current will continue to be against us and the weather unsettled. The sun is shining brightly and the breeze, though strong, is soft and balmy. Gave the captain a pamphlet entitled "Answers to Questions" which he promised to read.
6 p.m. Spent about two hours this afternoon sitting on a [-] and secluded spot on deck in solitary meditation. The vast and expansive old [p.66] ocean rolled and tossed on every side and my mind as I gazed upon it was reveling in the history past. In my meditations I saw Jared and his brother going out on the broad Pacific in their eight barges made tight like unto a dish lighted by the mysterious, luminous stones and rolling and tossing with the waves, sometimes on their crest and at other times in the bowels of the deep. 365 days in reaching the promised land. I saw Lehi and his sons and their families setting sail in their ship that they had constructed by revelation on the shores of the Persian Gulf. They too, crossing the Pacific Ocean, bound for the promised land. I saw Mulek and his band a little later launching their ships on the Black Sea sailing out through the Mediterranean Sea and across the Atlantic in mostly the same track we are now in toward the same land of promise. Away down the stream of time I saw Columbus sailing forth on his heaven-inspired [p.67] voyage for the unknown land beyond the Atlantic. I saw all these expeditions in their order as they came forth to grand old Columbia, the land of promise, the land of freedom. Aye all these and many more.
As I sat meditating on these grand events and on many events in my own career, particularly on God's mercies and blessings to me on this perilous but nearly completed voyage, the first verse of one of our most beautiful hymns came uncalled to my memory and I repeated it aloud, "When all thy mercies, Oh! my God, my rising soul surveys. Transported with the view I am lost in wonder, love, and praise." I took my hymnbook from my pocket and with unbounded adoration read the whole hymn through.
8 p.m. Have just returned from the steerage where I have been singing and praying with my little company. All are well and all feel well. The wind is still ahead and flowing pretty strong. The sea continues [p.68] comparatively smooth and we are steaming along very pleasant and very quietly.
Thank God for all His mercies. May they continue with us.
Sunday, Jan 30. - 8 a.m. When I waked this morning found the ship had stopped moving. On inquiring the cause was told that something had got wrong with the machinery and that they had stopped in order to fix it. We have just started again after a delay I should think of two hours. The wind and sea are high again and it is very cold.
1 p.m. 266 miles today at noon. 310 miles to Sandy Hook which is 17 miles from New York. The captain says the passengers may expect to be landed at 1 p.m. tomorrow. The ship has not rolled any today but it has been in such a tremble stemming the wind and tide that I have been almost as sick as ever all morning. I feel all the time as if I had turning round for an hour or two. Oh! so miserable. [p.69] The captain says he pays $180.00 to the pilot for taking his vessel into harbor and $150.00 to bring her out. This sum is to be divided between 7 or 8 who own the pilot boat in partnership. Sometimes a pilot will come out 500 miles to meet a ship to secure the job.
One of Sister Christies' little boys fell this morning and cut his head very severely.
Attended prayers in the cabin this morning, the captain reading in the services which were conducted according to Church of England regulations.
The captain says this ship cost and is worth $800,000.00 and is insured for $600,000.00. He says he has taken over to England many a load of American cheeses where they were doctored a little and then sent back and sold in the states at enormous prices as English cheese; also, America pork in the same way. [p.70]
8 p.m. Met an outward bound steamer a little after dark. She was directly in our track so that we each had to sheer off a little to the right like two wagons meeting on a country road. We burnt our three blue lights on deck to inform them that we belonged to the Guion Line and as they knew of course which vessel of that line is now due in New York, they knew we must be her - the Montana. She answered our signals immediately which was understood by our captain. She belongs to the Anchor Line. She looked grand in the passing with all her lights burning.
Have been down in the steerage singing and praying with our little company in their cozy quarters. After prayers they came out of their room into the general room and sang several of our hymns for the other passengers and several of the stewards and boat hands who gathered around. Brother Holmes has quite a choir and shows considerable ability as a leader. All his children sing and sing well too. [p.71]
9 p.m. This has to be our last night on the ocean. How thankful I am, no tongue or pen could ever describe. To God, my Heavenly Father, I render praise and worship for his great kindness. The sea is smooth, no wind, and we are fairly flying along over the water. Passengers and crew, captain and all are jubilant. God grant we may land in peace and safety tomorrow.
Monday, 31 - 8 a.m. Have just got up after a comfortable nights rest. We are still steaming along smoothly and rapidly.
9 1/4 a.m. Have just received our pilot. Have been on deck since breakfast viewing the shores of dear old America. Oh what a happy sight. Thank God oh thank God! is all I can say or think. The captain has made all the cabin passengers a present of a copy of our chart showing the course the ship has traveled and the number of miles of each days travel which are as [p.72] follows viz. -from Liverpool to Cape Clare 260 miles, from Cape Clare to noon on the 21st 233 miles, the 22nd 299 miles, 23rd 225 miles, 24th 251 miles, 25th 254 miles, 26th 109 miles, 27th 246 miles, 28th 316 miles, 29th 304 miles, 30th 266 miles, 31st 310 miles to Sandy Hook, and from Sandy Hook to New York 17 miles, - total 3090 miles from Cape Clare to Sandy Hook. By the route we have taken it is 2813 miles. The "City of Brooklyn" has made the fastest trip on record from Liverpool to New York in 7 days & 5 hours. 12 p.m. Passed Sandy Hook a half an hour ago. She stopped now between Statten and Coney Island. The doctor is on board.
6 p.m. Got in after the tide was out and was in consequence a long time getting to our place at the pier. I learned soon after we landed that Brother [William C.] Staines, our church agent on whom I have a draft for the money to pay the fares of myself and the Christe family had gone home and that it was too late in the evening to call at his place of business to ascertain [p.73] whether he has left an agent to act in his stead during his absence. Sent the Saints all off to Castle Garden and I am staying aboard the ship for the night by invitation of Captain Beddoe. Brother Eccles [Eckles] has gone to see the company provided with lodgings for the night and will return and lodge here himself. In the morning I will call at Brother Staines place of business, 8 Battery Place, and see what can be done. Brother Eccles [Eckles] is drinking and acts very strangely. I felt very discouraged this evening and almost sick. Have pain in my shoulder and breast. Thank God for the privilege of once more treading on solid land and that land my own native land, dear America. Brother Eccles [Eckles] and cousin and son of Brother Holmes' family came back to the ship a while ago and stayed a short time. I took Eccles [Eckles] [p.74] severely to task for his conduct. Told him that his drinking had destroyed my confidence in him, that I did not admire his way of doing business at all. And now to bed.
February 1st - Did not sleep much last night. Felt uneasy and anxious about everything; but how pleasant it was to be stationary and quiet. No rocking, no pitching, no roaring of waves, no trampling of feet. Oh the quiet was something delicious. Arose early this morning and went in search of my little company, could not find them. Bought a few crullers for my breakfast. At last, met Brother Eccles [Eckles] in the street who conducted me to No. 12 on the street next the river where I found my little company who were all glad to see me. Brother Eccles [Eckles] had been wanting Brother Holmes to lend him $102.00 to pay his own and cousin's fare home. Brother Holmes asked my advice [p.75] on the subject. I told him I had no advice for him, that he knew Eccles [Eckles] as well as I did and he must act on his own judgment. He thought the subject over and finally concluded to let him have the money. I drew up a note for the amount payable on demand with 2% interest from date which Brother Eccles [Eckles] signed. This I call on the part of Brother Holmes a magnanimous act. I bought the tickets for the whole company, 12 in all, as follows viz: Brother Holmes and family, 6 1/2; for myself and Sister Christe [Christie] 3 1/2; for Brother Eckles and cousin 2; total 12 at $51.00 per ticket. Posted the letter to Fanny and to Dr. Rogers. Also some letters entrusted to me by Brother Young for Brother Warburton. Took a walk up to the general post office with Brother Eccles [Eckles] and cousin. It was raining. It is now a 1/4 to 4 p.m. We are to start from pier No. 1 at 5 o'clock. [p.76]
Pennsylvania Railroad Cars
9 a.m. Wednesday, Feb. 2 - Left New York on time yesterday evening. Crossed the river to Jersey City where we secured comfortable seats in one of the emigrant cars. Started from there at 7 o'clock. Did not sleep much during the night. We had a heavy storm of wind and rain nearly all night. It seems as if the wind is to pursue us from Liverpool to Utah. When it got light enough to see, found ourselves on the banks of the Susquehanna River, which is full of floating ice. As I write we are passing through Harrisburg [Pennsylvania]. 11 o'clock a.m. We are having a beautiful, sunshiny day and the folks are enjoying themselves singing, &c.
We have in our car one family going to California, another to Texas &c, &C. 2 pm. Are stopping half an hour at Altoona. Some of the brethren have gone off to buy provisions. We find very little snow so far. The sun still shiny. [p.77]
Pittsburgh 11 pm. Reached here 9 pm and found that we had to lay over five hours . . . .
Thursday 3. Left Pittsburgh at 2 o'clock this a.m. Got into the roughest crowd in the car I ever saw and listened to the most profanity and vulgarity. They abused us for everything and insulted us shamefully. We finally got into another car. [p.78]
Got about 3 hours sleep last night and 2 the night before. At 11 o'clock this morning we reached Columbus Ohio and there we had to change cars again. Just now past 1 p.m. We are delayed with a broken engine: don't know what is broke. We are now off again. This country reminds me of Illinois and my boyhood. We are now at Piqua. The air is full of snow: Not much in the ground. . . . We were flying along in the cars during the whole storm. It seemed sometimes as if we were going to [-] blown off the track. A regular old mobocratic looking fellow came and sat down by me this p.m. and tried to get up a quarrel about our people. A lot of rowdies to whom we had given the wink gathered around to see the fun. I answered his questions as gentlemanly as I could and then led out on another subject in which I succeeded in interesting him. We [-] pretty good friends [p.79].
Changed cars again at Bradford 1 p.m. Have been on the "Pan Handle" line ever since we left Columbus. It is now 2 o'clock. Have just passed through Union City. It is snowing fast.
Friday 4. Logan's Port, Indiana. Arrived at this place last evening late and found that we had to change cars again and to wait until 8 o'clock this morning for the next train. I call this arrangement quite an imposition. Had to hire a room and some beds of the landlord of the hotel where the railroad station is kept. At first he demanded $7.00 for a room, two beds and a [-] -no fire. He finally came down to $5.00 and we were obliged to accept or sit up all night-we accepted. Brothers Eckles [Eccles] and Holmes and I went out to buy provision which we [p.80] obtained mostly at a bakery. Felt wore out: treated the brethren to some rusks and a cup of coffee.
Came back to the hotel. The sisters occupied the beds with Brother Holmes. We made up bids on the floor for the children and Brother Eckles [Eccles] and Sam. I occupied the [-]. Had nothing to cover me but a blanket and my overcoat. Wrapped my feet up in the blanket and covered my shoulders with the coat. I was tired and sleepy and was soon in the realm of forgetfulness. Slept until 3 o'clock this morning: waked up shivering and cold: tried in vain to go to sleep again but could not: so I got up and came out into the waiting room and ordering a cup of coffee, a sandwich, and a piece of apple pie proceeded to refresh the inner man at a cost of 20 cents. It is now 4 a.m. The room is well warmed and I feel much better.
My mobocratic looking friend came [p.81] and entered into conversation with me a second time yesterday but in quite a different spirit. Our subject was Utah and the Mormons.
It is now about time to start again on our journey.
El Paso, Illinois. Started 8:10 this a.m. It was quite cold but is now more pleasant. It is about 3 o'clock p.m. I find myself once more on the soils of my native state. I have been looking out in the direction of my old, old home most of the afternoon, and thinking of my own dear mountain homes, of wives and of children. Ah! Would that I could think of them less.
Peoria, 4 p.m. Have just crossed the Illinois River and are stopping in Peoria ten minutes for supplies. At all the towns we have passed through I have entertained myself with scanning the features of the people and noting the peculiarities. [p.82]
Have just been told by the conductor that we will have to lay over at Burlington tonight again. It is certainly an unheard of thing to have to lay over so much on these roads.
I never saw such an inquisitive, prying, not to say imprudent people as these westerners are. We have been stared out of countenance a thousand times since we left New York. When they find out what we are they not only stare at us but pry us with the most impertinent and insulting questions that can be thought of. We answer them as the spirit moves us generally and get along with it the best we can. One young fellow asked me first thing the other day if I wasn't the man that was leading this company out to Utah. I told him he wanted to know too much for a youngster; that I had known scores of people out where I lived to get rich by minding their own business. At that the fellow subsided and troubled me no more. [p.83]
Burlington, Iowa. Friday Feb. 4, 1876. Arrived here about 9 o'clock and received a very kind reception at the waiting rooms in the railway station at the hands of the keeper thereof, Mr. Edgar Brobst, who signs himself "Depot Police." Have been out with the brethren purchasing some provisions. Have performed my ablutions and feel much better.
It is a nice moonlight night. I enjoyed looking out at the window as we skimmed along this evening at the moonlit landscapes. Our way was through dense forests most of the time. It reminded me of the coon hunting. I had engaged in in [SIC] the woods of Illinois in my boyhood.
We crossed the Mississippi River at this place on the iron bridge. It almost made me dizzy to look down at the frozen river below us. The river is blocked with ice. [p.84]
Saturday 5. 1 o'clock a.m. We have a nice fire in our room but no chance for sleeping. Expect to up all night. Hope to catch a little sleep in the car tomorrow.
6 o'clock a.m. Have been up all night conversing most of the time with the brethren on subject, connected with the gospel. Enjoyed myself very well under the circumstances and do not feel much sleepy, even now.
Two families en route to San Francisco from New York wish it understood that they are part of our company, that they wish to travel under our wing and be considered one of us. We have every kindness paid us by the railroad officials as soon as they know that we are Mormons. Tonight we have had a large room assigned to our especial use all other passengers have to go to another room. I have frequently been amused to see how the patronages of the despised Mormons is sought after and appreciated. [p.85]
Saturday Feb 5, 1876. Omaha. Slept a little [-] in the cars coming along today-all that a miserable toothache would permit. A fine day. The forepart of the day we rode in a first class car and were very comfortable. The conductor on the last half of the route treated us very meanly. He drove us out of our car in which we had then seated by the first conductor into another where we were so crowded that we had no comfort at all. Intend to report him up to the agent of the company.
After evening saw vast prairie fires extending in every direction. They looked grand.
Bade goodbye to the timbered country and entered upon prairie lands once more.
Arrived at Council Bluffs at 11 o'clock where we took the transfer cars for this [p.86] place where we arrived at 11 p.m. I am sick tonight with cold and toothache.
Sunday 6. Went to bed at half past 12 last night after drinking a cup of hot coffee and taking some pills.
Slept all that my toothache would allow. Arose this morning at 8 o'clock feeling very badly and still being afflicted with toothache. It is at the Emigration Hotel that we are stopping. The bed was indifferent but it allowed a good stretch out which was of itself a luxury. Paid 25 cents for a breakfast this morning which was not worth ten cents.
Mr. O. Hildebr and agent of U. [Union] P.[Pacific] R.R.[Railroad] at station made me a present this morning of a traveling folding drinking cup worth 2.00 also a bottle of wine. Treated me also to a good dinner which should have enjoyed had I been well enough. My teeth have been aching all day [p.87] and I have felt throughly wretched. Wrote and posted letters to President Young and my wives. Gave the president a list of the names of our little company. Told my wives that I expected we would be five days going to Ogden. Asked them to telegraph me at that place whether either of them was coming to Salt Lake to meet me.
Took a short walk out in town this afternoon. It is now half past four o'clock p.m. and half an hour from starting time. We are all in the cars patiently waiting for they sound of the whistle, the ring of the bell and the cry of all aboard.
Yesterday had a talk with a woman who crossed the ocean in the "Egypt," the large ship that started from Liverpool the same day that we did. She got to New York two days later than we did we were 12 days, she 14, she was of course in all the storms that we encountered. One of her sailors was washed overboard and lost. The passengers made up a purse of $ 20 for the poor widow. Two of that [p.88] ships life boats were smashed during the voyage by the terrible waves.
6 o'clock p.m. Started precisely at 4:45 from Omaha. Just as we started a couple of strangers stepped up to one of the passengers in our car and asked him to change a two dollar bill for him. Not suspecting anything the passenger took out his pocket book containing over two hundred dollars. While he was turning over the money hunting for the change one of the stranger snatched the pocket book out of his hands and both jumped off the train. The poor passenger gave the alarm but it was too late the thieves were gone. It was all the money the man had. He and his folks went nearly frantic. The conductor had the train stopped and the man and his wife returned to Omaha an an [SIC] extra locomotive to endeavor to recover his money. Some of his folks are still on the train. I fear that the man will have his trouble for nothing. The occurrence created quite an excitement among the passengers.
My teeth still ache and I feel very badly. [p.89]
U. [Union] P. [Pacific] R.R. [Railroad] Train Grand Island Monday Feb. 7, 1876. 8 a.m. Awakened this morning feeling very badly slept most of the night but it was as close and warm in the car that I felt unrefreshed and miserable. Found ourselves at this place 154 mile from Omaha. Washed myself and ate a little breakfast and feel considerably better.
We are waiting here for the eastward bound express train to pass us.
3 p.m. Lozad, 245 miles west of Omaha. If we keep on at this rate we will be home Thursday evening. I have been feeling very sick and faint today.
My folks certainly know I am on the way by this time. I hope they are not feeling anxious. God bless all at home. There are a lot of [-] in one of the other cars who annoy us once in a while with their yells. They came through our car today flouncing a pistol. They are drinking.
Our train consists of 1 caboose, 3 passenger cars & [p.90] 19 freight cars. We are traveling so far at the rate of 10 miles an hour.
6 p.m. Am feeling much better. The Platte has been in sight on our left most of the p.m.
Tuesday 8. 8:30 a.m. Antelope Station. Got up this morning feeling pretty well. We are all saying to each other "Day after tomorrow we will be in Ogden: perhaps in Salt Lake City." Ah! Loved ones I am now near you. A few more hours and we shall, with God's blessing, be once more reunited.
2 p.m. Ten miles east of Cheyenne. The weather continues fine even at this vast elevation feet. The air is absolutely as balmy as in spring time.
Today have been relieving at the amount of money given to me while in England. It amounts to £1-17 shillings -6 demies of which Brother Binder [p.91] gave me 15 shillings out of the mission fund. The money I brought with me from home paid all the rest of my traveling expenses.
Have been talking with Brother Eccles [Eckles] about his familiarity with Lizzie Homes. Told him I considered he was acting very imprudently and advised him to change his course. Last night they slept in each others arms under the bed clothes.
Sherman 6 p.m. 8242 feet altitude. One of the highest points in the United States Some of the grandest scenery in the world. Have had two engines on since we left Cheyenne to help us up the steep grade. Had seen no snow since we left Omaha until this afternoon and even now not much and it is not nearly as cold we expect to find it in these elevated regions. The change in the atmosphere is wonderful. It is so light! The change has [p.92] made Lizzie Holmes so sick she has been vomiting.
Laramie 10 p.m. Being an hour and a half ahead of time we have been lain off here that number of hours. I have been having a long talk with little party on the evils of smoking , tight lacing, extravagance in dress and fashion &c. Brother Holmes has been an inveterate smoker. He today threw away his pipe and announced his determination to use the filthy weed no more. May God help his good resolution. This rarefied atmosphere is affecting all of us. A number are vomiting. I am troubled myself with a sever headache induced by this [-]. We now find plenty of snow and cold weather. The wind is blowing a heavy gale and it looks wintry. Inside our car however it is warm and pleasant. [p.93]
Wednesday Feb. 9, 1876. Percy. 7 o'clock a.m. Waked up and found ourselves anchored at this port discharging cargo. Weather unchanged excepting the wind does not blow like it did. Borrowed five dollars of Brother Holmes.
Tomorrow shall reach Ogden with the blessing of God. Perhaps shall reach Salt Lake City. My eyes may be blessed with a sight of my dear Fanny. I scarce think Agusta will be able to leave home.
3 p.m. A cold windy day. At Rawlins found the road blocked with snow drifts which were quite a while clearing away. We have had to stop every once in a while all the afternoon to wait for the snow to be shoveled out of the road. There are two freight trains along with three engines. Sometimes the front train has the assistance of the extra engine and sometimes we have it. It makes my heart ache to listen to the wind whistle without when I know that it is wholly blocking up the road and [-] [p.94] hindering our progress. I care not so much for myself but I hate to think of the sore disappointment it will be to the dear ones at home if I do not get there at the time I have written them to expect me. They will imagine a thousand things have happened [to] me and it will likely make some of them sick. May God comfort them and give them an assurance of my safety and may he in his own way remove every obstacle that this train may yet make Ogden on time.
Later. The hands turned out with shovels and cleared the road in short order. Encountered several other drifts which in succession gave way to shovels and snow plows. Are now making splendid headway. Traveling much faster than we have since we left Omaha.
Have had a long talk with Brother Holmes. [p.95]
Thursday Feb. 10, 1876. Fort Bridger 7 a.m. Slept very little last night. Was waked up this morning out of a happy dream of home by Sister Christie's little girl calling "Muver, muver, [Mother, Mother]." Its little voice in the stillness of the early morning sounded so plaintive. At first I thought I thought [SIC] I was at home and that it was one of my own little pets calling. Getting up found that we were again snow bound and that men had gone forward to remove the obstacle. The whistle soon after sounded and the train was backed several hundred yards in order to secure a good momentum. In a few minutes we arrived at this place and day was just dawning. We are being detained here quite a while for some reason or other. I know not what.
We have had beautiful moon light nights all along which we have felt to appreciate. Have sold my basket to Brother Holmes for $1.00. Borrowed [p.96] of him $4.60 to pay my fare from Ogden home and for contingent expenses. Brother Eccles [Eckles] owes me $2.00 that I lent him on board the ship on his promise to pay me the day we landed. He failed in that promise as he has in every other. He promises now to pay me as soon as we reach Ogden. He and Miss Holmes act as love sick and foolish as ever and do not like me at all because I condemn them.
10 a.m. Still detained at Bridger. A train is snowed in a short distance ahead of us and is working with shovel and plow to get through. When they will succeed is doubtful. The engineer says we may have to lay here all day and all night. I, however, have no such faith. The westward bound express is now due here and has been for over an hour. It is supposed that she too is snowed up. The wind storm yesterday and last night must have been very heavy to drift this wet snow so much. The sun has been shining beautifully all morning and the wind has gone down. [p.97]
Thursday Feb. 10, 1876 continued. Later. The blockade was raised at 10 o'clock and we came on our way rejoicing. Found the snow piled on either side of the road in places as high as our car. The engines that had been using the plows were perfectly covered with snow. We are now ascending a steep grade between Leroy & Piedmont, 70 feet to the miles.
Later: Passed Piedmont. Are laboring very slowly up a steep grade. Have passed through a number of long snow sheds. Our road for a number of miles now is almost in the shape of a horse shoe. Looking out of my window can see a great number of snow sheds. We are stopped again. The train ahead of us is blockaded and one of our engines has gone to their assistance. Can see a lot of men away in the distance shoveling snow off the road.
Have about given up all hope [p.98] of getting to Ogden in time this evening to make connection with the Utah Central. We will have very bad luck indeed however if we do not get to Ogden sometime during the night. The wind is blowing again and fills up the road almost as fast as it can be cleared.
The young men in the rear car who gave us so much annoyance the first day or two out from Omaha have quieted down amazingly and are as civil as can be. I got into conversation with several of them at different times and talked to them so kindly that they got ashamed of themselves and now when they pass along they salute me quite civilly. Moral: I have always found that soft words turn away wrath and that few men can resist the moral influence of kind words and actions. Some of these young men invited me yesterday to come back into their car and see them. I had invited them to come into ours and hear the singing whenever they felt like it.
Our engine has returned having helped the other train over the [p.99] summit hitched onto us again and the two engines made several vain efforts to move our train. We can not stir. We are now waiting for a passenger train that is over due from the east to help us. She too it is expected will have two engines.
1 o'clock p.m. Still we remain stationary on this long curve waiting patiently for help. Have ate dinner. I feel better today than for a long time. Notwithstanding the delay do not feel the least impatient or anxious. It makes us feel bad to think of the dear ones at home who will expect pa tomorrow and will be disappointed.
The passenger car has just arrived and we hope to be soon on the move again.
Evanston 75 miles east of Ogden. Borrowed both engines of the passenger train to help us over the summit. Arrived here at 2 p.m. and went into the telegraph office (Atlantic & Pacific Companies) and sent a telegram to Fanny at her mothers to tell her that I am [p.100] well and expect to be in the city this evening or in the morning. It cost me only 50 cents. If Fanny should not be there I presume mother will send the telegram to her at Payson. I feel certain that if all be well at home she will meet me at Salt Lake City. I do hope she will get my telegram in time to prevent her feeling very anxious about me.
And now who have I just seen but Brother Charles Twelves of Provo. He came aboard our car a few minutes ago with apples for sale. Was rejoiced to see someone from so near home. Bought some apples of him. He gave me yesterdays. Salt Leake Harold a treat truly.
Have just learned that it will be impossible for us to make connection with the Utah Central Railroad at Ogden this evening. Wish I had known it sooner. Would have my telegram differently.
And now we are off again. [p.101] Arrived at Ogden at 10 o'clock p.m. Had a glorious ride from Evanston. Called immediately at the [-] Office: no telegram for me as I had anticipated. Brother Holmes and I went with Brother Eccles [Eckles] to his aunts where we had a bite to eat and stayed a couple of hours. We are staying in the car tonight again. A mixed train leaves here for Salt Lake City 5 a.m. tomorrow while the regular passenger does not leave till 9:40 a.m. Brother Holmes is obliged to wait for the latter on account of his luggage. I think of going with the former though I do not like separating from Brother Holmes.
My heart is full of praise and thanksgiving to God tonight for all his goodness to me. I have renewed my covenants to keep his commandments and do his will. May he help me so to do. [p.102]
Ogden Utah Territory. Feb. 11/76. Sat up all last night. Had a nap of about an hours duration sitting on my seat. Abandoned my intention of going with the mixed train and am intending to go with Brother Holmes and family. It is now 8 a.m. We have carried our hand luggage up to the station and are now patiently waiting the train for starting.
Hunted up Brother Louie Christie early and he came down to the cars for his wife and children who had come over with us at the expense of the man was as pleased as a little child. I felt to truly sympathize with him in his joy. He had had no information whatever of the coming of his family and was therefore taken entirely by surprise.
9 a.m. Several men in the ticket office who know Eccles [Eckles] well have just been giving us his character. They say he is a first class bilk. That he owes everybody and pays never, that as he has nothing, nothing can be got out of him on debt outs. They say he has been an apostate and a bitter one [p.103]
Salt Lake City Utah, Friday, Feb. 11 continued. Arrived here at 11:40 a.m. in company with Brother Holmes and family. Brother Z. Jacobs, the gentlemanly conductor on Central Railroad kindly invited me to make my home at his house while in the City. I came immediately to mothers and had a happy reuniting with her and Mary Ann. Told them all I could think of about their relations in England. Indulged in a good warm wash all over. . . . [p.104]
BIB: Coombs, Isaiah M. Diary (Ms 1198), reel 2, bx. 1, fd. 9, vol. 22, pp. 30-33, 36-104. (CHL)
(source abbreviations)