Letter from James G. Willie - June 11, 1856

Ship Thornton, at Sea off New York,
June 11, 1856

SIR: I must take the opportunity, ere we separate to express to you the high respect I entertain for the passengers (760 souls) on my ship, who are immediately under your guidance and direction, and to affirm that they are the finest body of emigrants I have ever had the pleasure to convey across the Atlantic--they have always been willing to do and act according to my wish, expressed by myself through you, and to render me any assistance that I have required from time to time.

All this I am sensible has arisen from you excellent management. I must also thank you for you assistance rendered to my officers, more especially to my surgeon, to whom you have lent your aid during his arduous duties; owing to this I cannot doubt much suffering has been alleviated. And now, sir, as you are about to leave my ship in a few hours, allow me to express to you my best wishes and hopes that you will be enabled to reach your destination in perfect safety, and find all those near and dear to you in the enjoyment of perfect health--this I am sure will be sufficient reward for your four years of absence and toil in the cause.

Please to express my good wishes to you counselors, Messrs. Atwood and Ahmonson, wishing them like success and happiness [-] yourself. My officers, I believe, share [-] me in the above and will sign after me.

Sir, Yours very respectfully,

Chas. Collins
B. W. Ward,
John W.