Letter from Samuel B. Reed to Wife and Family, April 15, 1864

In this letter from April 15, 1864, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing the difficult terrain he will survey and notes the potential danger from Indians.

Omaha, NE
April 15, 1864

I have met several gentlemen from Salt Lake City, among them Mr. Hooper, formerly delegate to Congress from Utah Territory. He gave me a great deal of valuable information. All take a deep interest in the progress of the road. Mr. Young, Mr. Hooper and others inform me that there is no more danger from Indians on the route on which my work is than at this post. I shall be provided with the necessary authority to demand and armed escort if necessary. I have the most difficult country to explore, but in other respects the pleasantest. No deserts, bad water or hostile Indians to encounter and among mountains the peaks of which are covered with perpetual snow.