Letter from Samuel B. Reed to Wife and Family, January 17, 1867

In this letter from January 17, 1867, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing a "stormy meeting" of the Union Pacific Railroad's executive committee. He is fearful that "the progress of the road will be very much retarded" by proposed changes "in the mode of building the road."

New York
January 17, 1867

The executive committee met today and there is evidence of a very stormy meeting. I think there is a determination on the part of a majority of the board and committee to make an entire change in the mode of building the road. If they insist on a change, I fear the progress of the road will be very mach retarded. Mr. Durant is full of suggestions, and, if I mistake not, he will set some trap into which they will all fall and allow the work to go on as heretofore.

Messrs. Dillon, Duff, Williams and others of the board are here. Col. Seymore is a little fearful that he may be left out in case a change is made. Gold fluctuating from 134 to 137. President Johnson from present appearances will be impeached.