Transcription:
we reached the river The very sight of it caused me go down into my boots- and I still go deeper and deeper every time I think
of it Mrs. Bidwell is very well, and we are rejoiced to hear from you. Miss Sallie left for the East Oct. 16th; visiting (by
way of episode) Lake Tahoe and Virginia City and down to the 1900 foot level in the mines Mrs Bidwell went as far on the way
as Battle Mountain. Sister reached home safely of course 1207 N Street, Washn? D.C.. For days after your de- parture from
Rancho Chico there was one thought uppermost one unvarying question underlined: Where was Mr Muir No matter what question
I asked, it would be answered by another, Where do you think Mr Muir is? Am afraid he is drowned. And the inquiries still
go on with unabated anxiety. So you will learn that you are not forgotten, nor soon likely to be at Rancho Chico or Washington.
Since your embarkation, we have made a good road to the river at a point lower down, but it is to be extended up to that famous
point. Please let us have a few lines as soon as convenient, to assure us of your safety and whereabouts, and when we may
expect to see you at Rancho Chico, - and believe me, Mrs Bidwell joining in warmest regards, ever and Very Truly Yours John
Bidwell John Muir Esq Scientific Explorer c 00759