Transcript
Transcript for Taylor, John, "Editorial Correspondence," The Mormon, 13 June 1857, 2
CLINTON HOUSE, Iowa City,
May 30, 1857.
BRO APPLEBY—My Dear Sir: I arrived here on Saturday, about noon, in good health, having only rested four hours since I left Philadelphia. Although it rained, I proceeded forthwith to camp, which is about three miles from this place. The camp is beautifully situated on a gentle elevation on a rolling prairie. The white wagon sheets and tents, the order of the camp, and some pretty looking wagons, presented a beautiful and picturesque appearance, whilst the movements of the cattle and mules, the busy hum of industry in the preparations for a move, reminded me forcibly of former days.
With the exception of my son George, who has been affected with a temporary bleeding of the lungs, I found all in the enjoyment of good health—all seemed cheerful and happy.
A company of hand-carts, of upwards of one hundred, left about a week ago, and Bro. Little has all in readiness for the Danish brethren when they arrive; and as I have made arrangements in Philadelphia for their quick transit, I am in hopes it will not be long before they arrive here. Bro. Wm. Young arrived here with a herd of cattle on Thursday last; those for the brethren in the East are expected to-morrow. I was afraid before I arrived here that things had moved too slow; but I find that had they been earlier it would have been an injury, as there is now scarcely grass enough to sustain the cattle; it is thought that the season is quite three or four weeks later than ordinarily. I think the brethren have been very judicious in their movements. Bro. Erastus Snow was here to see the first hand-cart company off, and left about two days before I arrived. I expect to leave here after to-morrow. . . .
Everything here is business and bustle. I am constantly asked, "Are you going to the land sales?" Although this is a small place, all the hotels are crowded; speculation is rife on every hand, and all anxious to make fortunes in a hurry—can't wait; lots and land and sites, and sites and lots and land. This is at present the terminus of the railroad west—the jumping-off place. The land between here and the Mississippi river-which we rode over on the rail-is excellent; this State, indeed, bids fair to be wealthy.
John Taylor