Letter from Samuel B. Reed to Wife and Family, December 26, 1865

In this letter from December 26, 1865, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his frustration over the lack of directions from his superiors. He also notes that he may be offered the position of Chief Engineer of Construction for the Union Pacific line.

Omaha, NE
December 26, 1865

I have been waiting from day to day to know what I was ordered out here for. Mr. Durant arrived here with Col. Seymore and others last week. He said immediately after his arrival that he would let me off before the first of January. Since then he has said nothing about it. In the meantime I am directed to take charge of this and that work and see that it is done with the utmost dispatch.

Mr. Henry arrived here Sunday morning. He talks as though he would not do anything more under present management but there is a strong desire, I think, to have him resume his place on the road. Should he do so I may take charge of the engineering on Construction. If he does not remain on the work I have no desire to remain here in any place that would be offered me. Yesterday, Christmas, I went out to the end of the track, 45 miles, with Mr. Durant and others. There was no work being done. Every person connected with the road is very busy in their respective departments making ready for the Government commissioners who are expected this week.