Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)

Lt 5, 1875

White, W. C.; Hall, Lucinda

Approaching Omaha

January 29, 1875

Previously unpublished.

Dear Son Willie and Lucinda:

It is now eight forty-five o’clock, due at Omaha 9 o’clock, January 29, 1875. 2LtMs, Lt 5, 1875, par. 1

We all had an excellent day of rest yesterday, which was a luxury. Slept well. Had plenty of air, plenty of clothing, room enough in car, but twelve passengers yesterday. We have seen but little snow since we left Chicago. We have taken two excellent meals, appetite good. 2LtMs, Lt 5, 1875, par. 2

Now to business. I left two letters on those swinging shelves in sitting room, one from Edson to Uriah, to be read to the church. This had better be done at once. Place it in the hands of Uriah. If Hankhurst makes out his bill, refer him to your father. He made one filling of gold and one of composition. We will settle his bill, but let us know the amount. 2LtMs, Lt 5, 1875, par. 3

Willie, will you tell Harmon Lindsay to find out how much Brother Jones owes and get the men to settle on as reasonable terms as possible. With all who are able helping a little, we may settle his debts and release him. I will do as much as any two. When we read [in] the Scriptures, If thy brother hath fallen into decay, etc. [Leviticus 25:35], I know not how we can be clear to let the matter stand as it is. I am ready to help Yriply if others will show some interest in this matter, that it may be done understandingly. 2LtMs, Lt 5, 1875, par. 4

In regard to packing, we want the two carpets, one in sittingroom-bedroom and [one in] Willie’s room above, packed in a box. All the books should come that we would be likely to need. I want all the common dishes and everything cheap in line of tins or pails to be given to Stephen Belden, for he needs them enough, that is if he keeps house. If there is no steady girl of proper age to be with Sister Williams, I think it would be hardly prudent for her to stay, for it would have the appearance of evil. Please say as much to her. 2LtMs, Lt 5, 1875, par. 5

The letter written to Brother Miller I fear is not with me. You may find [it] in the things brought from the office. If so, send it to me at once that I may complete it and send to him. 2LtMs, Lt 5, 1875, par. 6

Please get the testimony I handed to Harmon Lindsay, as my husband has not yet heard it, and I wish a copy preserved in my own possession. 2LtMs, Lt 5, 1875, par. 7

In regard to canned fruit, I know not just how that stands. It is rather a mixed case. Tell Rosetta to fix that up perfectly whole and then allow Arthur [the] ten dollars’ marriage fees paid to James. Let Rosetta have fruit to square this matter thoroughly. We do not want to impoverish them one cent, but rather to help them. Please see them all squared up. We had provision of Arthur when we commenced housekeeping. Let this be all squared up. Sell all the furniture you can. Brother Lockwood will take the best parlor set of chairs, and sell the sittingroom chairs for what you can get. Sell bureaus for a reasonable price. Have our secretary put in the office. 2LtMs, Lt 5, 1875, par. 8

If that little cane-seat rocking chair can be, as well as not, put in a box, do so. If not, wait till another time. 2LtMs, Lt 5, 1875, par. 9

I hope you will all take good care of your health and come to us in good condition. We are really resting on the cars. 2LtMs, Lt 5, 1875, par. 10

Your Mother. 2LtMs, Lt 5, 1875, par. 11