Letter from Samuel B. Reed to Wife and Family, August 5, 1869

In this letter from August 5, 1869, Samuel Reed writes to his wife and family describing his arrival in Boston, which he describes as "a crooked place and full of crooked men, mentally and physically," for a meeting with Union Pacific officials.

Boston, MA
August 5, 1869

In Boston at last in the elaborate and magnificent furnished office of the U.P.R.R., writing on the best paper the office affords. I arrived last evening and stopped at the Tremont; was very worn and dusty after the long ride. A good night's sleep has rested me to usual energy and vigor. Dr. Durant and Crane will be here to attend the meeting—expect a warm time. Have not seen any of the Boston party except Williams. The Doctor, when I met him in New York, was feeling well had just returned from a trip off the coast of Maine; he appears to be enjoying himself first rate; laughs at the troubles of Ames and party.

In New York I met Mr. Gilless also Mark Seymour. Mr. Seymour took me for a ride through Central Park and to the high bridge. Mr. Gilless will probably accept a situation tendered him by B. Holladay on the Pacific Coast at $250 per month in gold, and expenses. I advised him to accept the place. Have not seen Mr. Bissell, hope to before I return. These two young men are among the most promising young engineers I have had on the line and I shall expect to see them take high places in the profession. Boston is a crooked place and full of crooked men, mentally and physically.