Letter from Samuel B. Reed to Wife and Family, August 31, 1869

In this letter from August 31, 1869, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing "warm times" regarding the Union Pacific Company's various debts. Reed notes obligations to Brigham Young and Captain Davis, but hopes to avoid all of the problems by leaving in the coming days, which he has been promised he could do.

Boston, MA
August 31, 1869

Day after day passes and no definite arrangements are made. Yesterday there was a full meeting of the trustees and several bills were passed upon, mostly for extra claims which were generally not allowed. The committee have not settled with Brigham Young yet. There is no question about their estimate only on their extra bills. As far as I could advise them to go under the contract, they are willing to allow, but the claims based upon the promises made by Dr. Durant, as they claim, are thrown out.

Captain Davis is here and his matters will be called up this morning. I expect warm times during the discussion of his claims. Yesterday the committee agreed to let me off today or tomorrow and I intend to hold them to it. It is time for the Northern Pacific parties to return and if Mr. Canfield comes east before I leave I shall make an effort to see him.