Camp near Ft. Laramie

August 13th 1858

My dear Sisters,

We arrived thus far on our long route to Utah in tolerable condition; nothing very interesting in the road, it being rather dull to me, tame at any time. The few interesting features of the country are no novelty to me. My horses are only in tolerable condition, grass is very scarce, having been nearly all eaten off by the ox trains which precede us, and being obliged to keep with the Infantry, we are kept longer on the road than there is any necessity for. I should like to travel back with my Battery next year, and think I will have fully earned it by the time we get to Utah. I have rec’d but one letter from you since we left Leavenworth & no papers of any kind.

We will leave here on the 15th, resuming our march which we expect will consume about 40 days. I am very busy and have little time to write. Love to all & will write to you again before we reach Utah if every opportunity offers to mail the letter. Direct all your letters, &c. to Salt Lake […].

Believe me,

Your affectionate Brother,

John F. Reynolds

My dear Sister,

I wrote to you on Tuesday & sent Will’s letter. This one came tonight and one from Mr. E. He says we may probably live in Pitts., ‘tis uncertain yet. As soon as I know will let you know. He has not gone west yet. With love to all. Yours most affect’ly,

Lydia