Dear Br Woodruffe, Haverstraw Septr 4th 1855 Time passes swiftly away and we have not reached the valley, I have no doubt you have some times wondered where we have got to, I some times am led to ask my self the question. Since you left the States things have changed and still continue to change. I have been foreman of the Engraveing Shop here for some years, but the continual fluctuations in trade have kept us from saveing much money yet we have saved a ...

Utah, and we shall have to be like many more utntill we can do better. I have counted the cost and am willing to make every sacrifice so that I may be counted worthy to receive my Endowment and all things pertaining to my family organisation, that I may also be usefull in building up Zion, and subject myself to the authority of the Church in Utah we are all anxious to make a start Br Shaw and Wife have been here with us ...

John DruceSept 4 1855