Letter from Samuel B. Reed to Jennie Reed, July 18, 1866

In this letter from July 18, 1866, Samuel Reed writes to his wife describing a fierce political fight involving Thomas C. Durant and George Francis Train of the Union Pacific Railroad. Their larger-than-life personalities cause Reed to comment that "one stage coach or steam boat could not hold two such men."

Omaha, NE
July 18, 1866

I have last returned from a two days trip up the Platte Valley. Track laying moves along as usual. Twenty miles more ready for commissioner. We intend to keep Dr. White moving this season.

The political fight which was at its height when you were here was terminated so that all were disappointed. George Francis Train was, as he says, sacrificed by the railroad men and cursed loud and long. All the blame was attached to railroad men. He gave up all notice that none that are now in good places will be here in 30 days from the time of his starting for New York, including T. C. Durant. One stage coach or steam boat could not hold two such men as T. C. Durant and G. F. Train on their way east. George Francis goes from Nebraska disgusted with western polities and I think with a very large flea in his ear. Governor Saunders, Judge Kellogg, Secretary Paddock, etc. were all like George Francis Train, sacrificed on the radical block of black republicanism.