Letter from Samuel B. Reed to Wife and Family, January 11, 1868

In this letter from January 11, 1868, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family and describes being caught in a severe snow storm. He also notes that "bridge matters are progressing well" and that he has received a letter from Grenville Dodge, in which the General declares his support for Reed.

Dale Creek, WY
January 11, 1868

I have been absent most of the time since my arrival. On a trip to Fort Saunders I was caught in a severe mountain storm and delayed two days. The wind blew a gale and a large amount of snow fell and was blown furiously over the country, being deposited in high piles behind rooks, in ravines, canons and railroad cuts. After the storm it was intensely cold, thermometer sank to 30 degrees below zero without wind. I did not suffer more than any person would in the moist atmosphere of the low country bordering the lakes or sea with the thermometer at zero.

My bridge matters are progressing well, timber all purchased and will be shipped within the next two weeks. The masonry is well advanced and will be completed in time for the timber work. I have just received a long private letter from General Dodge, from New York. I send the letter for your perusal. The general writes that some parties in the board are very mach dissatisfied with my operations here the past year, but adds that he made a big fight for me and the board have concluded to retain me this year. He promises to write more details as soon as he has time. You see I am of some little importance, enough at least to have enemies. I regret not resigning last year when I could have done so with a good reputation and not made half as many enemies as I now have. No one can tell by Mr. Durant's talk what he thinks of a man, his best friends may not know what he means when talking to them. New York complications will crush any man that stands in the way and it is impossible to steer clear of them all. I have the satisfaction of knowing that I have done my duty fearlessly and with fidelity to the whole interest of the company while in its service.