Letter from John R. Boyle to Samuel B. Reed, April 30 1860

In this letter from April 30, 1860, John R. Boyle writes to Samuel Reed stating that the prospects for railroad work west of Iowa City, Iowa do not look good for the season. He notes that the governor of Missouri vetoed a state bill which had appropriated four or five million dollars "to finish up some of those roads now only part finished," and concludes "R Roading seems to be dead." He asks Reed to let him know if he hears of any work.

Iowa City
April 30 1860

Samuel B. Reed Esq.
Dear Sir

I will begin by saying, I think there will be but little done on the road west of the city this season. The prospects are now that they will stop. They have stopped the work in Poweshiek Co.

There seems to be nothing in the shape of a R Road to build.

This Governor of Missouri has vetoed the bill passed by the legislature of that state appropriating four or five million of dollars in bonds to finish up some of those roads now only part finished. R Roading seems to be dead. I am going to sell all my old horses and stop quiet for a time. If you should hear of anything we would try hard to get it.

See over.

I am inclined to think the Clinton and Cedar Rappid [sic] road will go on by fall. Tom Isett says he thinks it will go on. We are all well. Robert goes to school to Davenport . Let me hear from you.

Yours Very Respectfully
John R. Boyle

Please remember Mr. and Mrs. Boyle to Mrs. Reed. I hope Annie is growing large and hearty. J. R. B.