Letter from Danforth H. Ainsworth to Samuel B. Reed, November 29, 1863

In this letter from November 29, 1863, Danforth H. Ainsworth writes to Samuel Reed informing him of his new position with the Mississippi and Missouri Railroad. He states that he is glad to have the position, even if it only pays $75.00 per month. Ainsworth also notes the progress of the work of their mutual friend and fellow railroad employee, John R. Boyle, and asks Reed to write to him at his new position as often as he has the chance.

Ainsworth Iowa

Nov 29 1863

S B Reed Esqr Dear Sir

Yesterday I received a proposition from Mr. Henry to go to Grinnell and take charge of work from that point west for $75 per mo.

Without remonstrance or discussion, as to amount of salary, which is certainly very small, especially for the times, I have concluded to accept, and expect to leave on Tuesday.

I consider it better to accept that offer than to be moping away a winter here for nothing, especially as I shall be at a place from which this place is easy of access, and I may during the winter, be enabled to make some disposition of the farm and other property here.

At least, I expect to be obliged to spend the winter away from my family.

I am very anxious to sell out here in order to find a better place for my family, and still am almost afraid to do so, being half inclined to be [?] a remark of my neighbor today, that "no one had ever left this farm without regretting it," and it would be the case with me.

Mrs. Ainsworth is still at New Albany Ind, and will probably go to state of New York before returning here.

Though it would be a great satisfaction to remain here and take care of what I have, I shall doubtless be glad to be away doing something to escape loneliness here.

I presume you have been at home long enough to know your acquaintance with your family so that Mary would not call me Papa if I should visit you. Pleasant is not it to be well acquainted again?

Mr. Boyle has six miles of work west of Grinnell and the last I heard of him he had gone to Cedar Rapids to attend another [letting] there.

Mr. [Nifford] has resigned his chaplaincy and is now in Conn.

I shall be glad to hear from you whenever you can make it convenient. Direct to Grinnell.

Please to remember me kindly to Mrs. Reed, Mrs. & Miss Hand, as well as the children, and tell them I frequently recall my pleasant visits with them.

Truly your friend
D.H. Ainsworth