John, David - Journal 1861-81

January 1861

1st Spent the day at home 'till 4 P.M. then left for Mansfield, arrived there by rail at 5, the distance of 14 miles, held a meeting there at 8 P.M., visited a few families of Saints, lodged in the house of Mrs. Mary Warren and Sister Emma Jones.

2nd Visited the Saints in the morning, went to Sutton in the afternoon accompanied by Bro. John Pearl. Held a meeting there at 8 P.M. Many of the Saints wept because I was going to leave them.

3rd Spent the morning in visiting the Saints, walked 5 miles to Princeton in the afternoon accompanied by Elder George Marriott, met Elder Edward Reid at Princeton after having visited the Saints there, walked 2 miles to Somercotes and held a meeting there, lodged in the house of Elder John Farnsworth, Reid with me.

4th Left at 11 A.M. for Nottingham, rode by rail 14 miles, spent the afternoon at home with my wife. Found Elder James Brown 3rd at my house having been sick in bed there for 3 days.

5th At home, Brown was better, at 5 P.M. Elders Amasa Lyman and Charles C. Rich, of the quorum of the twelve arrived from Liverpool at 7 P.M. Elder Gleason arrived from London, also Elders Henry Duce and Nelson and Jared Gates from Derby. Brothers Lyman and Rich lodged at my house.

6th Held our Conference (being Sunday), attended three meetings, had a very profitable time, Bro. Lyman preached for an hour and a half at 6 P.M.

7th Spent the day at home, also the above Elders, mostly during the day.

8th Brothers Lyman and Brown 3rd went to Mansfield, Rich and his son Joseph to Calverton, and Gates to Derby, Bro. Gleason to 'Newcastle on Tyne'. In the evening I went to Calverton Branch, the time was occupied with Elder C. C. Rich and myself. I lodged with Bro. Baguly.

9th Very frosty morning, left at 9 A.M. for Nottingham, arrived at home at 11 A.M. rode on the Buss. Spent a few hours in writing at home, took tea with Bro. James Oakey. At 8 P.M. attended meeting at Radford, Elder Rich occupied the most of the time. Returned to my house to lodge.

10th Spent the morning at home with Bro. C. C. Rich At 4 P.M. he and his son Joseph left for Somercotes. I spent 3 or 4 hours with Elder Edward Reid in auditing the Emigration Books of the Nottingham Conference. At 7 P.M. I baptized in the Bath, Elizabeth Esther Wilson aged 21 and Hannah Pidd aged ___, several of the Saints attended on the occasion.

11th Spent the day in writing the Saints of Nottingham. Took tea with Bro. Ward.

12th About home all day.

13th Sunday. At home in the morning, attended meeting at Nottingham at 2:30 P.M. and at Radford at 6:30 P.M. preached about an hour in each place.

14th Spent the day in moving our goods from 24 Promenade to 3 Campbell Grove, the house of Elder C. Whitaker.

15th At home in the morning, my wife accompanied me to Br. James Oakey in the afternoon, at 8 P.M. attended meeting at Nottingham, Bro. Brown 3rd and myself occupied the time in talking to the Saints.

16th The few furniture that we had, were conveyed to the Market and were sold. At 4 P.M. Elder Reid and I rode about 12 miles to the Heanor Branch, visited the Saints there and lodged at "Loscoe" in the house of Bro. _____.

17th Walked 5 or 6 miles through the snow to Swanick and from there to Somercotes and from there to Princeton and visited the Saints in the three branches, lodged in the house of Elder John Elug.

18th Left at 9 A.M. visited the house of Bro. John Farnsworth, met Bro. J. C. Rich there. Took the train to Eastwood, spent the afternoon in visiting the Saints there, at 6:30 P.M. I took the buss for home and arrived there at 8 P.M., met my family well.

19th At home, spent the day in preparing for emigration. At home in the evening, visited the family of Elder Frederick Richards.

20th Left for Derby at 9 A.M., rode by rail there 16 miles. I met Elder Aaron Nelson, we walked together on foot to "Branstone" through "Burton-on-Trent, the distance of about 15 miles, we arrived there at 3 P.M. and partook of the Sacrament with the Saints, we also held a meeting at 6 P.M. I occupied the time mostly in the evening.

21st Visited the Saints in Burston in the morning, walked 10 miles on foot in the afternoon to visit Bro. Clomp in Staffordshire, we spent the evening very happy with him.

22nd Left Elder Clomp's at 8 A.M. walked 3 miles to "Tudbury" and rode by rail 12 miles from there to Derby, met James Brown 3rd at Derby and spent the day in visiting the Saints, attended meeting at 8 P.M.

23rd Left Derby for Leicester at 10:15 A.M., rode 30 miles by rail, was met at the Station by Elders Charles Webb, Abraham Orme, and James Payne. Spent the day with them in visiting the Saints, attended meeting at 8 P.M. Received a letter from my wife informing me that "herself and Annie were well".

24th Spent the day in Leicester 'till 7 P.M. then left for Longborough, rode 12 miles by rail, spent the evening with Bro. Henderson.

25th Left for Nottingham at 12 o'clock, rode 15 miles to Nottingham at 12 o'clock, rode 15 miles to Nottingham, spent the afternoon with my wife, and also visited the families of Elders Edwards, Reid, James Ward, and Priest William Butterwick.

26th Spent the day with my wife in packing up our goods for emigration. At 8 P.M. some 20 or 30 Saints met in the house of Bro. Edward Reid and we had a social party 'till 1 o'clock midnight, we dismissed by a prayer and all felt well.

27th Sunday. Spent the day at Nottingham, attended two meetings.

28th At home preparing for leaving.

29th Left Nottingham at 6 A.M. with my wife and daughter Annie Jane, went by rail through Birmingham and Gloucester to Cardiff (Wales) met many of the Saints, lodged in the town.

30th Spent the day at Cardiff, attended meeting at 7:30 P.M.

31st Went to my Father in Law's house, 4 ½ miles from Cardiff, found them well.

February 1861

1st Spent the day at "Graig Farm" in the house of my parents-in-law.

2nd Left for Cardiff, spent the day there, left my wife at her father's house.

3rd At 9 A.M. left for Treforest in company with Bro. B. Wride. Attended 2 meetings during the day. I also visited my cousin Ester Minday that lived some ½ mile from there.

4th Left for "Cynnull", and "Ystrad" held meeting at the last at 7 P.M. I preached for 1 hour and 40 minutes.

5th Left for Llanvabon 12 miles distance, held a meeting there at 7 P.M.

6th Went to Pentyrch, received a letter there from my wife informing me that Annie Jane was very sick, returned to her to the "Graig" and found her better.

7th Spent the day at the "Graig".

8th and this day also.

9th Left for Cardiff, spent the day there.

10th Sunday. Left for Cardiff Station and rode by rail to Swansea the distance of 45 miles. Arrived there at 11 A.M. met Elder William Ajax, attended 2 meetings with him and the Saints during the day. Met Elder B.P. Evans "Udgorn Seion" Office at 9 P.M.

11th At Swansea in company with Brother Evans.

12th Remained there, went to the Circus at 7 P.M. saw Tom Sayers, the Champion of England.

13th Left for Haverfordwest, Pembrokeshire the distance of 63 miles, met Elder Thomas Jeremy from "Utah", attended meeting at 7:30 P.M.

14th Went to Little Newcastle, to my mother's, the distance of 9 miles. She cried with joy when she saw me.

15th At home with my mother.

16th At home

17th At home, my Uncle John John, New Farm, came to see me, I talked with him for a few hours concerning the principles of the Gospel.

18th I with my mother visited my Uncle Levi Williams, Llyaydrew, returned home in the evening.

19th At home 'till the 23rd.

23rd Left my mother about mid-day. I wished her good bye, being the last time that I should see her, before emigrating to Zion, she cried bitterly, and I also shed some tears, she told me that she should not see me alive again. She desired me not to go and I desired her to go with us, but both of us failed in our attempts. I arrived in Haverfordwest in the evening and spent the night there.

24th Sunday. Spent the day there, attended two meetings during the day.

25th Went to Freystrop, visited Brother William Howells and family, returned to Haverfordwest in the evening.

26th Spent the day there, attended meeting in Dew St. at 7 P.M.

27th I altered and mended clothes to myself.

28th Made a cord pants to myself.

March 1st Worked all day.

2nd Rode by rail to Llanelly, the distance of 50 miles, lodged by the sea side in the house of Thomas Lewis.

3rd Sunday. Attended 2 meetings during the day, Elder B.P. Evans from Swansea was with me.

4th Spent the day there, left for Swansea at 9 P.M. in company with Bro. Evans, lodged in his house.

5th Spent the day there.

6th Left for Merthyr at 3 P.M. in company with Bro. Evans, rode 30 miles by rail, visited a few families of the Saints, lodged in the house of Bro. J. Davies.

7th Spent the day there, attended meeting at 7 P.M.

8th Rode by rail 24 miles to Cardiff, met Elders Thomas, Jeremy, George Bywater, and B. Wride, walked to the "Graig" 4 ½ miles, found my wife well after being a month from her.

9th She (Mary) accompanied me to Cardiff, she lodged in her Uncle Strawson's house and I in a public house.

10th Sunday. Attended 3 meetings at Cardiff.

11th Spent the day at Cardiff.

12th Went to the Cardiff Docks, we lodged in the house of Mary's cousin, Jane Taylor, formerly Strawson.

13th At Cardiff, I made a few sacks for emigrating.

14th At Cardiff.

15th Went to the "Graig", Mary with me.

16th Went to Cardiff in company with Bro. B. Wride, met Bro. Evans of Swansea.

17th Sunday. Attended 2 meetings at Cardiff.

18th Spent the day there.

19th Left for the "Graig" at 6 P.M.

20th At work all day at the "Graig".

21st Working there during the day.

22nd At work.

23rd Left in company with my wife for Cardiff, spent a few hours with her, I then left for meeting at 6 P.M. I arrived there at 7 P.M., she returned to her father's house. I lodged with Bro. W. Morgan from the Salt Lake Valley.

24th Went to (Sunday) "Hoedyrhiw" in company with Bro. Morgan and John Davies. Attended two meetings there, returned to Merthyr in the evening.

25th I worked all day in the house of Bro. John Davies.

26th At work there.

27th Also this day. I lodged in the house of Bro. William Morgan.

28th At work in his house.

29th Also this day.

30th And also this, lodges in the house of Bro. John Davies.

31st Sunday. Attended 2 meetings at Merthyr.

April 1st Went to "Aberdare" in company with John Davies, attended meeting at 7 P.M. Davies delivered a lecture on the dispensation of the fulness of times, good attention was given by the congregation.

2nd Spent the day at "Aberamon" went to "Cap-Coch" in the evening, Davies again lectured at 8 P.M., good attention was paid, I was called to the chair.

3rd Left for Haverfordwest by rail, rode 9 miles, and walked from there to the "Graig" 8 miles, arrived there at 1 P.M., found my wife well. Spent the remainder of the day with them.

4th Spent the day at the "Graig".

5th Also this day. Bros. B. Wride and George Bywater visited us in the afternoon, attended meeting at the Whitchurch Branch at 8 P.M., Mary, Sister Ann and I returned after the meeting.

6th Mary and I went to Cardiff, spent the afternoon there, returned to the "Graig" at 8 P.M. I received some letters from Liverpool, Nottingham, and Merthyr.

7th Sunday. At the "Graig" all day. I spent the morning in writing and the afternoon in conversing with relations that came to see us. The first poetry on the following page was inserted in "Udgorn Scion" March 9, 1861. The second on the Priesthood, September 13, 1856. The first subject is water baptism by immersion

April 1861

BEDYDD DWFR

Mae bedydd dw'r ysgrythyrol, Gosodiad yw o drefniad Dwyfol
Rhwn oedd mewn bod cyn Adda'r cyntaf Ufydd-dod gafodd gan yr olaf.

Ni chymra'i Ioan neb i'w fedydd Ond rhai addefent fod yn ufydd,
Ac a gyffesent eu pechodau, Gan addaw gwella eu bucheddau.

Pa les, gan hyny , yw taenellu Babanod bach na fedrant gredu?
Rhyfgwaith ydyw dilyn dynion Sydd yn ymyraeth a'r dyferion.

Mae'n bechod gwlychu talcen plentyn Heb am hyn'rheswm, na gorchymyn;
Cemerai Crist hwy yn ei freichian; Yn lle'u taenellu, fe'u bendithiai.

Daenellwyr plant, rhowch heibio'r ddefod O dywallt dwr ar ben babanod,
Ac na rhowch goel ar chwedlau dynion; Canlywch Crist s'i Apostolion.

Fe welwyd Iesu Grist ei hunan Pan yn ddeg ar hugain oedran
Yn myn'd o'i fodd i'r unig ddyben O gael ei gladdu'n yr Iorddonen.

Rhaid cael ffydd ac edifeirwch Yn mhawb sydd am gael bedydd, cofiwch;
"Os wyt ti'n credu fe a ellir" Yw'r ammod oddiar bawb ofynir.

Ow! Pedied neb fod mor ddi g'wilydd A galw'r Tacnell mwy yn fedydd;
Gosodiad glan gan Dduw yw Bedydd Er dwyn maddeuant i'r credinydd.

Ni rhad i'n deimlo unryw g'wilydd Am ddweud fod hyn i'w gael tryw fedydd
I hyn bedyddiwyd yr holl nifer Fedyddiodd loan, Paul, a Phedr.

Mae adgenedliad trwyddo'n sicr I'r ufyddhawr o galon gywir,
Ac iachawdwriaeth ddrudfawr hefyd Ni arddel lesu neb a'i gwrthyd.

Clywch, clywch, Fedyddwyr, byddwch ufydd, Paham y gwadwch ddyben bedydd?
Pa les yw gwadu "grym duwioldeb", Nid yw ond rhith a nerth ffolineb.

Amddifad ydych o r'a awdurdod I weinyddu yn enw'r Duwdod,
Rhaid yw cael Offeiriadaeth Aaron, -- Yn feirw hebddi yw'ch dysgblion.

Edifarhewch, a dewch yn fuan, Trwy fedydd dw'r, nefol gorlan;
Yr awdurdodau a adferwyd, A'r holl allweddau, i'n hoff Brophwyd.

Dewch, dewch, genedloeddd, peidwch oedi, Bedyddier chwi gan weision Iesu,
Addawant hwy yr holl fendithion, Addawodd Crist a'i apostolion.

YR OFFEIRIADAETH

Maerhyw gynhwrf gaew iawn, Yn y gwersyll; Ofni mae y mawr eu dawn, Nawr Ein sefyll;
Nerth yr Offeiriadaeth yw, Fe orchfyga, Gau grefyddau o bob rhyw, Haleliwia.
Mewn awdurdod y mae hon, gan y Seintiau; Ninnau sydd a'n gwedd yn llon, Am ein breintian;
Fe lywydda'n ddinacad, Yr holl fydoedd, Hon ddyrchafodd ein hoff Dad, Fry i'r nefoedd.
Hebddi nis gallasai Duw, Greu'r planedau, Na rho'i iddynt nol eu rhyw Santaidd ddeddfau;
Ar ein pelen fechan ni, Fe ganfyddir, Mil o floedd maith diri, Yn dra eglur.
O wrthddrychau bach a mawr, Er ein syndod, Trwy ei grym bodolant 'nawr Gan y Duwdod;
Deddfau anian dan y nef, Lywodraelir. Gan yr Offeiriadaeth gref Er ein cysur.
Breiniol allu uchel ryw Fe lywydda, Cangen o'r un flaenaf yw, Pwy a wada?
Mae bendithion ynddi'n 'stor, Clod am grefydd, Hon fydd sylfaen gorsedd Ior Yn dragywydd.
Galwyd Iesu'n cyfaill mad, Yn Offeiriad, Trwy lw santaidd gan ei Dad, A chyssegriad;
Swydd anfeidrol uwch a ga'dd., Rhosyn Saron, Na'r Offeiriaid uchel radd, 'Nol urdd Aaron.
Hyd orseddfainc fawr y Tad, Geill ddyrchafu, A'r iselaf gylch, yn rhad Mae'n lywyddu;
Nid oes dechreu iddi, clyw, Mae'n drag'wyddol, Neid rhyw gysgod diddim yw Un sylweddol,
Trwy'r bydyssawd oll o'r bron, Ni cheir iddi Riant na neb achau Lion, Yn bodoli,
Os edrychaf draw drwy ffydd, Yn mhen oesoedd, Ni chaf ddiwedd ar ei dydd Trwy'r canrifoedd.
Gan fod Crist ein nefol Ben Yn meddiannu, Y swydd yina fra in nen, Gwnaeth gyfranu;
Yr un urdd i luoedd maith, O blant dynion, Caf eu gwel'd ar ben fy nhaith, Draw yn Seion.
I'r dyffaethwch aeth y wraig. I ymguddio, Trwy fod beunydd yr hen ddraig Yn er blino.
Aros yno wnaeth i'n wir, Dros ganrifoedd, A thywyliwch dros y tir A Ymdaetodd.
Fe gymmerwyd nol i'r nef, Ddwyfol senedd, Y wir Offeiriadaeth gref At'yr orsedd;
Hon uis gall'sair sarff a'i lld, Byth dd yfetha, Cepir iddo trwy ein byd, Sain-Hosanna.
Gwelwyd goleu dysclaer draw Yn ymddangos, Mae bendithion fyrdd gerllaw Yn ein haros;
Wel atolwg, pa beth oedd, Yn goleuo, Canys uchel iawn y floedd, Glywyd yno.
Angel ydoedd yn y nef, Lawr yn dyfod, A'r Efengyl ganndo ef, Mewn awdurdod;
Ac i'r Prophwyd Joseph Smith, Fei dadguddiodd, Uchel fydd ei enw byth, Am a gafodd.
Mae Elias gwedi d'od, I'r cyfandir, Pob peth gynt ag oedd mewn bod, A adferir;
A'r mab gwryw hefyd ddaeth, Mews mawr allu, Seiniaf glodydd ar fy nhaith, I Grist Iesu.
Joseph y Gweledydd mawr, A'i derbymfodd, Ac i luoedd ar y llawr, Fe'i cyfranodd;
Canys engyl dedyrn nef, Yn sylweddol, Ddarfu ei ordeinio ef, Yn Apostol.
Careg o Gumorah draw, Oedd mewn daer, Dorwyd heb gynnorthwy llaw, Yn ddiweddar;
Treiglo wnaeth o don i don, Gan orchfygu,

[Omitted: Remainder of Welsh poetry is illegible to me]

8th Spent the morning in the house of my father in law (William Wride) in the afternoon went to Cardiff, at 7 P.M. attended a social party held by the Saints.

9th Spent the morning in Cardiff, in the afternoon returned to the house of my father in law. Few relations of my wife were there paying her a visit before our departure.

10th Left at 3 P.M. in company with my wife and her brother and sister, Barry and Ann Wride, on our journey to Utah, all the family cried bitterly when we parted. Stayed at Cardiff over night.

11th At 10 A.M. left by rail for Liverpool, the distance of some 150 miles, arrived at Liverpool at 9 P.M. and lodged in Great Cross Hall St. At William Crowforth's a non-member of the Church, but very friendly inclined toward our Church. The Saints in Liverpool had rented a room of him upstairs in his dwelling house in which they held their public meetings for several years.

12th Spent the most part of the day in the Church Offices at 42 Islington. Myself and wife took supper with Amasa Lyman, Charles C. Rich, George Q. Cannon, and wife (three of the twelve) and also John Kay, all then on a mission from Utah.

13th At 5:30 A.M. crossed the river by steamer to Birkenhead where I had left my baggage, remained there 'till 8 A.M. took it to the "Waterloo Docks" to the Ship "Manchester" which had been chartered to New York. Her Captain's name was Mr. Trask, a gentleman from New York about 30 years of age, he behaved and conducted himself gentlemanly towards our company all the way. Left the ship at noon and went to town (Liverpool). At 1 P.M. Elder Charles C. Rich married Sister Hannah Salmon to Bro. Barry Wride. Returned to the ship at 4 P.M. and remained in it over night.

14th Sunday. At 2 P.M. a meeting was held on ship board, the company was addressed by Elders Amasa Lyman, Charles C. Rich, and George Q. Cannon. The emigrants on board were organized into 5 wards. With a President Claudius V. Spencer, two councilors, Edward Herman (Hanham), and William Jeffery and with 5 Bishops, Benjamin Evans, David John, and Barry Wride from Wales, Job Pingree from Ogden Utah, and William Bayliss from Manchester England. Went to Liverpool at 6 P.M. and returned to the ship at 9 P.M.

15th The Doctor and government officers came on board at 9 A.M. for inspection, the ship had her clearance in the evening.

16th Sailed from the river at 9:30 A.M., we were taken out by a Steam Packet the distance of 20 miles. It left us at 1:30 P.M., we sailed at the rate of about 4 or 5 miles an hour during the evening and had very fine weather. At night we passed the beautiful sites of the Carnaroons Line Mountains North Wales and the point of Anglesea. Had fine weather during the night.

17th At 6 A.M. we were within sight of Ireland, had a four wind, sailed at the rate of 6 or 7 miles an hour, at sun set we passed Trumka's Light House (a small island near Ireland). The majority of the emigrants were sick in the evening, had a four wind all night and day.

18th The most of the passengers were sick, my wife among the rest, I was sick for about 5 minutes which was all the sickness that I endured the whole voyage. Sailed at the rate of 6 miles an hour.

19th At 6 A.M. we were 500 miles from Liverpool, cleared the Irish Channel in the evening. One of the ships crew, an Irishman born in America, fell from the mast and got drowned. The Captain stopped the ship and sailed forth the life boat in pursuit under the charge of the First Mate but could not get his body. His feet must have sliped [sic] off for it was a very fine calm day. The First Mate expressed his sympathy to me, after him, particularly for the sake of his mother who lived as a close neighbor to him in New York. He spoke highly of the character of the drowned young man and concluded by saying that he must have been very careless in falling on such a fine day and continued he d-m him if he were to return. I would kill him for being drowned so carelessly. The ship sailed at the rate of 7 miles an hour during the day and at night at the rate of 10 ½ miles an hour. Passengers were nearly all sick.

20th Being a fine day, sickness removing, sailed 7 or 8 miles an hour. Administered by the laying on of hands to many of the sick. Sailed at the rate of 5 miles an hour during the night. We sailed from 6 P.M. of the 19th to 6 P.M. of the 20th, make an average of 8 1/3 miles an hour in the last 24 hours. At 3 P.M. we found that we had sailed 800 miles from Liverpool, but in a direct line 576 miles distance.

21st Sunday. Held a meeting on board in the morning, we sailed at the rate of 5 miles per hour, at noon 3 miles per hour, in the evening 6 miles, and during the night 4 miles per hour. The meeting was addressed by Elders Edward, Harmon, William Jeffries, and Ward. I laid hands on Sister Croper from the Manchester Conference and on Sister Roberts from Eglwys-fach Caernarvonshire North Wales they were both sick.

22nd I got up at 4 A.M. and swept and scrubbed the passengers deck, being a fine and clear morning, ship sailing at the rate of 4 ½ miles per hour. At 6:30 P.M. I saw some fish hogs, about 12 in number, they were following the ship in a straight line one after another, with their heads above the water. In the evening we had a dance on deck and a few songs, attended prayers on deck at 8:30 P.M. Fair wind the most of the day.

23rd Had unfavorable winds, sailed at the rate of 3 miles an hour during the day, in the evening had a dance, singing, and prayers in the open air.

24th Being damp light showers of rain in the morning, sailed at the rate of 4 miles an hour during the day and at the rate of 7 miles during the night. I was on watch from 9 P.M. 'till 1 o'clock mid-night.

25th Being fine weather, strong breeze from the most favorable quarter, sailed at the rate of 9 miles an hour, several encountered sea sickness.

26th Had the most favorable wind all day, the majority of the passengers were sick, the ship rocked worse than we had experienced before, sailed during the night at the rate of 10 ½ miles an hour. During the night the sea was so boisterous that it was quite a task for the passengers to keep in their berths.

27th Had rough weather, the water dashing on deck, many sick, small rain from 12 o'clock at noon yesterday 'till 12 noon today, we sailed 235 miles in 24 hours, being 5 miles lacking of covering 10 miles an hour during the 24 hours. At 12 o'clock noon we were 2 hours 13 minutes behind (latter) the Liverpool time. During the afternoon and evening we sailed averaging 7 miles an hour. The sea was rather boisterous all night.

28th Sunday. Being dark and foggy we were entering the banks of "Newfoundland", I saw strange two birds called "Bosons", with a red feather and a long tail about one foot in length, sailed about 4 miles an hour. The wind increased at noon, the weather being too rough to hold meeting on deck which was published to be held at 1 P.M. In the afternoon we sailed at the rate of 10 miles an hour. At 4 P.M. we were surrounded by a very thick foggy mist, we could not see over 200 yards distance, it was cold with a small thick rain night and day. The Captain informed me that it was raining the year round on the Banks of "Newfoundland". The bell of the ship was ringing day and night, they also blew the horn to give an alarm if other ships might be near us, lest we should become in contact with each other in the dark. We averaged during the night 10 miles an hour.

29th Surrounded by the same cold, stormy, dark, and rainy weather, the wind blew extremely cold, it was nearly impossible to remain long on deck, all nature seemed dreary and gloomy, the sun, moon, and stars as far as we discovered never visited those banks; it seemed to us as though when the Creator separated the "light from the darkness" and called one "day and one night" that the Banks of "Newfoundland" were left to exist in their primeval state without an organization, for Mr. Trusk our Captain told me that it was always the same kind of weather there. All except 2 of the emmigrants enjoyed good health, the atmosphere too cold for the visitation of any fever to prey upon us. Still severe cold possessed many, among others my babe Annie Jane born Dec 15, 1860 in Nottingham, England (being my first born) being at this time 4 months and 14 days old. A young lady by the name of Mary Ann Thomas took her in her arms up on deck, when I found her, her face and forehead were turned blue with the cold, water running freely from her eyes and nose, the cold settled on her lungs, which never left her, she died from the effects of this cold on the plains of Devil's Gate on the 20th day of August 1861 and buried there. For more particulars see August 20th and 21st 1861 this book. Sailed during the night at the rate of 10 miles an hour.

30th The same kind of weather as the last 2 days, sailed about 5 miles an hour in the morning. At noon the darkness disappeared, it became clear and fine for a few hours, we thought we were leaving the "banks". At 2 P.M. we saw a buoy of a ship on the water which proved that we were still on the banks and that a fishing ship was near. At 3 P.M. the weather became dark and cloudy as before and it continued 'till 11 P.M. then it became fine and clear, at this time we left the banks and found ourselves on what is termed by many the "American Coast", we sailed at the rate of 5 miles an hour during the night.

May

1st Clear and fine morning sailed at the rate of 1 ½ miles an hour, enjoyed good and healthy atmosphere, the Saints seemed thankful that we sailed so slow and easy, after having endured such rough weather on the "Banks". Discovered a ship sailing from North to South, sailed at the rate of 5 miles an hour in the afternoon and 6 miles during the night.

2nd Being very foggy and dark we could not see beyond 200 yards distance. Sailed at the rate of 1 mile an hour in the morning, at the rate of 5 miles an hour in the afternoon, evening, and night.

3rd At 2 A.M. a heavy gale rose, the passengers tumbling to and fro all over the ship. The wind blew us five points out of our course, the ship was steering direct to the North Point which makes the atmosphere quite cold. Out of every 12 miles we sailed we gained 4 miles toward the West. The ship was rocked like a cradle on the ocean, the water dashing over the deck, the people tumbling on board on each other. Tins and cooking utensils moving to and fro and found no resting place. Down below I noticed a Scotchman on his knees, holding fast to the contents of a dish of soup, of oatmeal, and pears, determining not to loose it in the storm, while an Englishman passed by with the contents of a chamber, fell down, the contents of the chamber emptying in the soup, the Scotchman got up and attempted to strike him, but a Welshman came tumbling up and down and he was thrown down between them both, as he was getting up he was vomiting and dispatched a mouthful of peas to the Welshman's face, this relieved the Englishman and the Scotchman threatened to have the Welshman tried for his standing in the Church for his abuse. The majority of the emigrants were sick, I waited on them all day.

4th Fine weather, we sailed slow, sickness removed, had a dance in the evening.

5th Sunday. Had a stormy day like the 3rd inst. As the ship was rolling I had a bad fall, got my left shoulder hurt, so that I was made to get up alone, one of the sailors picked me up. The wind was favorable and sailed at the rate of 10 miles an hour during the day and night.

6th Fine like unto the 4th inst. At 6 P.M. a huge gale rose and the sea was boisterous all night. All the passengers were deprived of a nights rest.

7th Being the roughest day since we left Liverpool. At noon we were on George's Banks. Emigrants sick, the Captain feared George's rocks on the right front, he turned the ship and sailed southwest to evade them. The sea surrounded us, like high towering mountains, at times we sailed as in a low valley with mountainous waves on the right, left, and on the rear, it seemed as if one thousand part of the water that formed itself above us in the shape of perpendicular mountains, would but empty itself on the ship, that it would drive us forever into the forgotten depths of the ocean, but before the mind though inspired with velocity divine could give birth to new thought the valley beneath and the mountains above had disappeared and we found the ship on the very summit or pinnacle of a mountainous ocean, with an eternal abyss below us, the next moment we found the ship hanging as it were a bird to a crag on the side of a perpendicular mountain, this was a scene that no artist could type, no tongue can describe, but the heart may immagine [sic] with feelings of horror, delight, and thankfulness combined. The passengers were tranquil and calm and all hushed into silence, no talking, no shouting, no public prayers were heard among the Saints, but the crew of the ship was alarmed, the Captain and first mate rushed down below to us. As they came the mate spoke in a trembling heart rendering voice, "we will be all drowned in a few minutes, I have been on sea for 20 years and never experienced such an awful storm before". The sailors could do no good, it took them all their physical strength to save themselves from tumbling over. The Captain in a tremulous tone addressed himself to me saying "I wish if you Bishops would invite yourselves together with the Saints and pray the Lord to save us and have mercy on us, for I have heard that your people can perform miracles and if you can, now is the time one is needed. I replied that we did not profess to perform miracles, but we believed that God is no respecter of persons and that he was just as willing and ready and able to save us as he was to save his disciples on the Sea of Galilee and saved Paul when it became shipwrecked. The Captain replied for Heaven's sake do not preach now, there is no time for preaching, go and pray the Lord to save us. I replied that we had made our prayers beforehand, like Daniel the Prophet before he was thrown into the den of wild lions, he was then and we are calm now and I assured the Captain the Lord will not suffer us 400 Saints to perish in the deck, so do not be alarmed, God will preserve us. He replied "If you do not need to pray for yourselves, pray for our sakes". We gathered the Saints together and offered up a petition to our Heavenly Father to quiet the storms and the waves that it might become calm. In on half an hour or less it became perfectly calm. The Captain told me that he knew now that the Saints could perform miracles. I assured him that they did not profess to be performers of miracles but that they believed that God would listen to their cry when they call upon Him in faith.

8th Fine day. The health of the emigrants gaining, were driven Southward 5 miles our of our course.

9th Fines, sailed slow in the afternoon, in the morning we were within 276 miles of New York.

10th Fine day, sailed at the rate of one mile an hour all day were driven a few points Southward out of our direct course.

11th Fine morning, sailing at the rate of 2 ½ miles an hour, all of the Saints got on deck to recruit health. Had a dance in the evening.

12th Sunday. Fine day, sailed at the rate of 3 ½ miles an hour. Held a meeting at 2:30 P.M. and administered the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper at 7 P.M. Good feelings prevailing among the Saints.

13th Fine, sailed at the rate of 5 miles an hour. At 7:30 A.M. a Pilot came on board to pilot us in. At 10 A.M. we discovered Long Island in the State of New York on the right and the State of New Jersey on the left. In the afternoon we passed Sandyhook and at 7 P.M. we cast anchor at quarantine within 9 miles of New York. The sight was beautiful to behold. One glance at land, houses, green trees bearing foliage on the right and left of us created happy sensations within us after being on the ocean deprived of our present surroundings about one month. Held meeting at 6 P.M. when a vote of thanks was presented to our kind Captain and his officers for their kind treatment towards the emmigrants. We gave three cheers to the land of our adoption.

14th At 7:30 A.M. a doctor came on board and examined the health of the passengers, all passed as being healthy. We were taken by a steamer within one mile to "Castle Garden" where we remained all day.

15th At 7 A.M. the Custom House Officers came on board and examined our luggage, we presented them with a few pounds Sterling and had no difficulty. Proceeded, landed and went to Castle Gardens and got our names registered according to law. Went to one of the Docks and got our luggage weighed and crossed the river by a steamer over to New Jersey. At 1 P.M. I took a walk through the city and examined the surrounding scenes for a few hours. Met a man and his wife from within 2 miles to my father's house by the name of Thomas Evans, a member of the Church, who had gone so far towards Utah, but had given way to drinking and remained there seemingly contented with his situation in the midst of wickedness. As a token of his great regards to me he offered me some brandy to drink. I told him that I had left my native land for the sake of my religion and hoped that he would quit his evil habits, save his means, and gather up to Zion, he promised to do so.

16th Elders Erastus Snow (one of the Twelve), N. V. Jones, and Thomas Williams (Emigration Agents) spent the day with us and afforded us much joy. At 9:30 P.M. took the railway cars and started at 10 P.M. Myself and wife, with a few others rode in the 1st Class carriage all the way to St. Joseph, Missouri. On our route we passed the following stations: New Jersey (City), Monroe, Bergen, Oxford, Hackensack, Junction, Boiling Springs, Chester, Passaic Springs, Goshen, Huyler's, Hampton, Pasterson, Middletown, Godwinville, Howells, Hohokus, Otisville, Allendale, Port Jervis, Ramsey's, Shoholo, Suffin's, Lackanexen, Ramapo, West Hope, Sloatsbury, Nerrawsbury, Southolds, Cochuton, Greenwood, Calicoon, Teirners, Hamkins, Lordville, Battboneville, Stockport, Cameron, Hancock, Crosbyville, Hales Eddy, Carnisteo, Deposit, Harmesville, Susquehanna, Almon, Great Bend, Alfred, Kirkwood, Andover, Binghamton, Genesee, Union, Scio, Campville, Phillipsville, Oswego, Belvidere, Tioga, Friendship, Smithboro, Cuba, Barton, Hindsdale, Wiewly, Olum, Cheming, Great Valley, Welesburg, Little Valley, Elmira, Cattarangus, Big Flats, Dayton, Corning, Perresburg Mailes, Painted Post, Smiths, Albison, Forestville, Chicago, Dunkirk, St. Joseph(last), Cleveland

We sailed on the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers for about 48 hours when we landed in Florence. On the Missouri River my only child Annie Jane was taken sick with the lung fever, but became better before we landed in Florence. We arrived at Florence on the 24th of May 1861 and tarried there 'till June 23rd. I rented a part of a house and lived there for one month. While there I bought 2 Oxen, 2 Cows, and a wagon and the remainder of an outfit for to cross the wilderness. While having this rest my child Annie Jane gained in her health. On June 23rd 1861 we moved 1 mile west of Florence and there camped. In the evening a meeting was called, when Elders Milo Andrus, Jacob Gates, and John D. McAllister addressed us. Elder Homer Dunston was appointed our Captain.

June 24th I spent the most part of the day herding cattle and visited Florence in the evening.

25th Left Camp at 11 A.M. and travelled 5 miles and camped at "Little Pavilion"

26th Travelled 11 miles and camped at "Reid's Ranch".

27th Travelled 8 miles and camped 2 miles west of "Elkhorn Bridge".

28th Travelled 14 miles and camped 3 miles west of "Fremont".

29th Travelled 14 miles and camped on the North side of the River Platte at a place called "North Bend". The roads were heavy to travel.

30th Sunday. Travelled 10 miles and camped at Shell Creek. Several Indians visited us in the evening.

July 1st 1861 Travelled 14 miles, a company of 5 wagons left us and crossed to the north of the Platte.

2nd Travelled 10 miles, crossed "Loupe Fork" in a boat, camped ½ mile west of the river.

3rd Travelled 12 miles, camped on "Prairie Creek".

4th Travelled 14 miles, camped at "Baker Junction Ranch".

5th Travelled 15 miles, camped at "Parkers Ranch".

6th Travelled 14 miles, camped at a place named "Shoemakers".

7th Travelled 17 miles, camped East of Wood River.

8th Travelled 10 miles, camped at Wood River center.

9th Rested the most part of the day, travelled 5 miles in the afternoon.

10th Travelled 15 miles.

11th Crossed Wood River.

12th Travelled 15 miles.

13th Travelled along Buffalo Creek, camped by the river.

14th Sunday. Travelled 20 miles.

15th Travelled 20 miles, camped by a river.

16th Passed the "Pawnee's Spring", camped by a creek where we had good water.

17th Some of our cattle were missing, we spent the most part of the day hunting after them, all were found, travelled a few miles in the evening.

18th We met with several mud holes, crossed a creek, named "Sandy Bluffs", travelled 4 miles through a heavy sand.

20th The roads were sandy and hard to travel in the morning, it was good traveling in the afternoon.

21st We had sandy roads all day, it was heavy for the cattle, we had heavy rains and thunder in the evening.

22nd Heavy roads, camped near a small creek.

23rd Encountered hard road to travel, had to double our teams. Travelled only 12 miles.

24th Travelled 7 miles in the morning, camped for the day opposite "Ash Hollow". Myself and many others crossed the River "Platte" in search of currents, in the evening we held a concert, we had singing, reciting, and dancing in commemoration of the Pioneers entering the Great Salt Lake Valley.

25th Fine breeze in the morning, warm in the afternoon, heavy rain and thunder in the evening, camped on the "Platte".

26th Being a warm day, travelled 18 miles.

27th Found good road, a child of one Bro. Jenkins being between 3 and 4 years, fell from a wagon, the wheel ran over its head and entirely opened it. Bro. Charles W. Penrose sewed the scalp together and placed sticking plaster on it, when we unitedly laid hands upon child in the name of Jesus Christ and to the astonishment of all the child lived. I saw the father 10 years afterwards and reported that the child was growing into a fine young woman. A more miraculous manifestation I never witnessed.

28th We had good roads this day, we camped in view of "Chimney Rock". It was a very warm day.

29th Travelled 14 miles, camped opposite "Chimney Rock".

30th Travelled 16 miles, it being a warm day, it thundered in the evening.

August 1861

1st Travelled 12 miles. Elder N.V. Jones, Jacob Gates, and Claudius Spencer over took us from the East, they spent the evening with us.

2nd Travelled 17 miles in company with the Elders before mentioned.

3rd The Brethren left us they having goof mule teams and we the slow but sure Ox Team. We travelled 16 miles, camped within 7 miles to Laramie. We had a heavy rain in the evening accompanied with lightening and thunder, we fasted that evening being too wet to cook supper.

4th Sunday. Travelled 6 miles to the "Platte", crossed it opposite Fort Laramie, travelled 3 miles west of "Laramie" and camped over night. I visited the Fort, bought a few provisions and returned to camp. Several Indians visited us in the evening.

5th Tarried here 'till 3 P.M. Travelled 5 miles over the "Black Hills" and camped on the North side of the "Platte".

6th Left camp at 6:20 A.M., we saw a large company of Indians (being the Sioux) stopped at (Big Brother Cotton Wood) travelled 17 miles and camped at (Little Cotton Wood Creek).

7th Had a good road, but hilly, travelled 17 miles, camped on the "Platte" on the South Bank. At dusk it became my time or turn to herd cattle that night, so we drove the herd cross the "Platte" to the north side, there being good feed. I rode on a horse through the river, soon it became too deep for the horse so he commenced swimming, when we got to the north bank of the river the horse had to go up a steep side and being quite wet, but before the horse got quite up on the North side he fell on his back perpendicular and lighted me in the river below, myself on his back in the struggle. I was thrown from the saddle, the horse swam towards the north side of the river and myself carried towards the South side. I was bewildered, I remember that I shouted "O Lord save me" and the following morning Captain Duncan says that he saw me in the river and understood the words that I said. Now I will relate in words of soberness what transpired which no doubt can not be believed unless the mind of the reader be inspired by the spirit of God. After I uttered the words "O Lord save me", I found myself on the back of the horse with my left hand holding in the saddle and my right hand having hold of his mane. How I was taken there I know not, I heard no sound, I saw no being, but by the power of God, I was placed there and so deep and unfathomable are the works of God that this strange miracle took place unaccountable by myself. The horse swam down the river 'till we came to a good landing. I dismounted, being wet through, I put fire to a large dry tree, standing up, dried myself and got warm and when the dawn of the day appeared I crossed the river to the Camp while the fire was still burning in the tree. I will here observe that this circumstance surpasses any understanding but I confess that God made himself manifest.

8th Travelled 9 miles in the morning, crossed the "Platte" to the North side, travelled 9 miles in the afternoon.

9th Travelled 13 miles, having good roads, came to the "Platte" at 3 P.M., intended to cross the river but the bed of the river being full of quick sand we thought it might be unsafe to cross. Camped by the "Platte".

10th Some of the Cattle were missing, found them and started at 11 A.M. Travelled about 8 miles over a rough road up and down hill, it was so crooked that we gained 4 miles westward in traveling 8. I saw a grave some 100 yards from the North side of the "Platte" where one "Springstead" was buried who got drowned June 21, 1861, aged 24 years.

11th Encountered hilly roads in the morning and sandy in the afternoon, travelled 18 miles, camped near "Deer Creek" on the opposite side.

12th Crossed the "Platte" to the South side 1 ½ miles West of "Deer Creek", travelled 4 miles. Spent the remainder of the day to trade. I bought a Buffalo hide. We shod Oxen, repaired wagons, etc.

13th Some of the cattle were missing, consequently we did not start 'till noon, travelled 11 miles, camped by the "Platte".

14th Travelled 15 miles, crossed the river to the North side, a place known as the "Upper Crossing", we camped there.

15th Travelled 10 miles through a hilly and rough roads, camped by a stage station. I made a pair of pants for a Stage Driver, got $5.00 in gold for making it. I was up all night and thought myself sick on the morning.

16th We left the "Platte" on the South side, travelled 17 miles, camped by a good Spring of water.

17th Travelled 12 miles, one of our wagons broke down. I found a large quantity of cattle hide about 1 inch wide on the wilderness and this came to be of good use to fix up our broken down wagon. We camped within sight of "Devils Gate".

18th Sunday. Travelled 15 miles, camped 2 miles East of "Devils Gate". A meeting was held in the evening. 3 or 4 of the Elders addressed us.

19th Spent the morning in shoeing cattle, repairing wagons, travelled 5 miles in the afternoon. My only child Annie Jane was sick all day, in the evening Elder Thomas Duncan and myself administered to her, she seemed better for a time and enjoyed better rest than the previous night.

20th August. Tuesday. My child died. I was called on guard at 2 A.M. I felt reluctant to go because my child was sick, but knowing it to be a duty to share the burden of care and responsibility I obeyed and hastened to release the guard. I left my wife and baby deep asleep in the wagon, seemingly enjoying a sweet sleep, so I left them without saying a word, lest I should disturb them. I walked about 1 mile to the cattle, found them lying down and still, released the guard. I thought there was no danger of Indians, neither any sign of the cattle going astray so I laid my Buffalo Robe on the ground, laid my pistol by my side, and laid down, my roof being the wide canopy of heaven. Not then knowing that the Angels of God were with me on guard. I soon fell in deep sleep and dreamed the following dream: I saw my wife walking towards me with a smiling face dressed in white, rather short dress, 'till I could see that her hose were white and having on Black Silk Slippers, her face and neck were as the driven snow as she approached near me she smiled. Her smile offended me. I rebuked her saying that it was wrong for her to be so merry and seeing me in such great pain. She replied that she was not aware that I was sick. I told her to look at my right leg which was naked. It was covered with sores, dark and gloomy, and above them all high on the thigh was a large black gathering from which dark, thick blood ran profusely, the blood as it ran, covered my leg, foot, and toes and from the end to the toes dropped to the ground and as it fell to the earth it sank out of sight so that we could perceive no trace of it left behind. When she (my wife) witnessed this scene of pain, she wept bitterly and said I must go, Annie Jane is quite sick and she left quite mournful. I awoke, left the herd at 6 A.M. went to Camp after arriving the first thing I heard was that Annie Jane had been very sick from 3 to 4 o'clock but was then a little better. Although she appeared sick and in great pain. Her mouth was opened and her eyes stationary fixed to the heavens. At 8:30 A.M. she was growing sicker, she seemed to have spasms, the emigrants tried to console us saying she was teething, that her gums troubled her, but my dream was before me so strong 'till all my strength and faith was taken from me. She died in her mothers arms at 8:30 A.M. Many thought it was a fit, but in vain were such thoughts, for it was death. She was 8 months and 5 days when she died. Hundreds and thousands of Saints have laid down their lives between the Missouri River and Salt Lake, they died martyrs to fatigue and worn out constitutions in the wilderness, Among those martyrs is my first born. She was born at Nottingham, England, Dec. 15th 1860. We left Liverpool April 1861, consequently she was 4 months when we started, she caught cold on the Banks of Newfoundland and it settled on her lungs. She died 3 miles West of "Devils Gate", we travelled that day 12 miles, we met 800 soldiers returning from Utah who was called the "Camp Floyd" Soldiers. One Brother Turner made my child a coffin, it was strong about 3 inches thick, it was plain, not ornamented, for how could we make any display in our poverty in the wilderness. Elders Benjamin Evans and William Howells dug her grave and David P. Thomas. She was placed in her coffin in the afternoon and placed in the wagon with her parents overnight.

21st Captain Homer Duncan appointed 12 bearers of young men to convey her remains to the last resting place. Elder Charles W. Penrose preached the funeral sermon. She was buried at 7 A.M. on the side of a small hill, 600 yards east of a high rock and about the same distance South of Sweet Water. This grave is about 15 miles West of Devils Gate, the river crosses between two high rocks nearly touching each other. This place is known as "Little Devils Gate". We placed her name at the head of her grave and heaped a pile of large stones on her grave to protect her body from wild beasts. We travelled 13 miles this day throughout wet and muddy roads and camped on the banks of "Sweetwater". It would be useless here to portray the feelings of parents in being compelled to leave their only child, while in search of a spot where they can worship God unmolested. The following lines are dedicated to her memory:

The body long a prey to sickness and disease,
Did waste away 'till death signed my release
Now sleeps within its clay cold bed,
Among the long connected dead. And again
This lovely bud, so young and fair
Call'd home by early doom,
Just came to show how sweet a flower
In Paradise could bloom.

22nd Travelled 16 miles, camped on "Sweet Water".

23rd Travelled 18 miles, passed "Ice Springs".

24th Travelled 12 miles through a rough road known as the "Rocky Ridges".

25th Sunday. Travelled 14 miles through a rough mountainous road, camped on the "Sweet Water".

26th Travelled 16 miles through rough roads, camped for the last time by the "Sweet Water".

27th Camped 9 miles West of South Pass. Milo Andrus and company camped 1/5 mile East of us.

28th Travelled 21 miles, camped by "Little Sandy".

29th Travelled 16 miles, camped at noon by "Little Sandy".

30th Travelled 9 miles, I spent the morning hunting cattle, found them, the remainder of the day was spent in shoeing cattle and repairing wagons.

31st Travelled 17 miles, we crossed Green River and camped 3 miles West of the river, we had good feed and water.

September 1861

1st Travelled 12 miles, camped on "Hams Fork".

2nd Camped on "Black Fork".

3rd Camped on "Black Fork".

4th Camped 1 mile west of "Fort Bridger", Captain Joseph Murdoch and Company camped by us.

5th Camped at the foot of a very high and steep rock hill.

6th Camped at the foot of the Summit, had good feed for the cattle.

7th Camped 5 miles West of "Bear River", we travelled through a hilly country. We travelled slowly on and arrived in Salt Lake City on the 13th September 1861. While at Echo Junction I lost an Ox and did not find it 'till October 6th at Salt Lake City. When I arrived at Salt Lake the roads through the City, the most part of them, contained good grass, so that our cattle could feed without going out of the city. I remained there for 3 or 4 days and went to Lehi in Utah County in company with my brother in law (Barry Wride). I remained there one month, I worked hard while there assisting Israel Evans to harvest and hauling rocks for the foundation of a school house. We lived in an old worn out granary of Israel Evans'. I made my bed in one grain bin and Barry Wride in another. I found there many warm friends, but I did not like the place. While there my wife went to the fields and like Ruth and Naomi of old, gleaned wheat. It was not my desire that she should go, but she went of her own choice. We hitched up our oxen and went to Provo, reached the city after dark, lodged with the family of Bishop Elias Blackburn, who was then on his mission in England. The next day I rented one room of Henry White, lived there the same winter. I taught school in the 4th Ward 2 winters, in the 2nd Ward the 3rd winter, and in the 3rd Ward the 4th winter. I bought a house in the 3rd Ward the first winter also 5 acres of land and I tilled the land in the summer time. I moved to my own house in the Spring of 1862.

Annie Jane, my oldest daughter, was born at Nottingham, England, December 15, 1860 at 1:30 A.M. and died on the Plains of America on the 20th of August 1861.

My second daughter, Mary Jane John, was born at Provo City, July 23, 1862 at 7:30 P.M. Martha Ann John was born in the same City October 1, 1864 At 6:30 P.M.

Hannah John was born in the same house August 27, 1866 at 3 P.M. and died November 6, 1866 at 1 A.M. aged 10 weeks and 10 hours.

David my son was born in the same City October 22, 1867 at 10:15 P.M.

Elizabeth John was born in the same City January 2, 1870 at 3 A.M.

Caroline Matilda John was born in the same City February 7, 1872. She lived 20 minutes. Rosellia John was born in the same place July 1, 1873 and died September 30, 1874 being 15 months old.

The above 8 children are those by my first wife Mary.

I married my second wife Jane Cree, October 10, 1865.

Her first son Thomas John was born at Provo City on June 15, 1867 at 8:30 P.M.

Her second son Daniel John was born at Provo City July 4, 1869 at 7:15 P.M. and died in the same house, September 13th 1869 at 12:15 A.M., aged 10 weeks and 3 hours.

Emma John the third child was born in Provo City March 15, 1871 At 8:15 P.M.

General History of 10 Years

Ada John her fourth child was born at Provo City July 31st 1873.

I clerked in a store for Enoch Reeve and David Hinesy for 3 ½ years and in the Co-operative Store for several years.

I tended much of my time in hard work in farming during the summer seasons.

I was ordained an Elder under the hands of Elder William Bowen in Haverfordwest South Wales June 1 1856, see the journal of that date.

I was ordained a member of the Seventies in the 45th quorum February 19, 1862 under the hands of Elder Robert F. Thomas, president of said quorum.

I was ordained a High Priest and a councilor to the Bishop of the 3rd Ward, Provo City, in the Fall of 1862, (September 10, 1862), under the hands to President George A. Smith.

I received my first endowments in company with my wife Mary in Salt Lake City in Nov. 1862.

I received my second annointings in company with my two wives in Salt Lake City September 20, 1867. I should have like to make known the testimony of the truth that God gave me this day for fearing it to be un-lawful to utter, being a private character, I forbear.

I was appointed a Mission to preach in Utah County, November 23, 1868 and continued in this ministry for over two years preaching on Sundays and laboring in the week for a livelihood.

In March 1866 I was elected to the Board of School Trustees for Provo City and re-elected in March 1868. In August 1868 I was elected Superintendent of Common Schools for Utah County and labored in that position 'till April 14th 1871 when I resigned on account of being called on a mission to Europe. In the Fall of 1862 I was appointed a home missionary in Provo City. In July 1862 I was elected 1st Lieutenant to Company H in the Nauvoo Legion. In 1867 was elected Assistant to the Battalion. In 1865 was appointed Treasurer of the Provo Branch Irrigation Company of Provo. I received a Certificate of Citizenship of the U.S. June 25th 1866. Received my full papers March 27th 1868. I was appointed Superintendent of Sunday School in Utah County October 1865 and have continued in the position to the date of this day being March 2nd 1875. From my arrival in Utah September 13th 1861 'till May 1st 1871 (when I started for Europe) I did not keep a daily journal being a period of 10 years, lacking 4 months and 12 days. The varied cares and responsibilities of life occupied my time and if indeed all were written that transpired within my knowledge during that period, this volume would not contain the record thereof.

May 1871

During those ten years I enjoyed good times in Provo City. We were quite poor in circumstances for the first 3 or 4 years, but the family being few in number, we bore our poverty with patience and fortitude, trusting in Divine Providence for a better supply in the future.

As my family increased in number, the comforts of life increased around us so that all were made comfortable.

1st I left Provo City Utah at 7 A.M. on a mission for Europe, lodged in the house of Lee King, 3 miles South of Salt Lake City. I was accompanied by Caleb W. Haws who died while on his mission for the Small Pox. I left my family in tears.

2nd Left Mr. King's house at 6 A.M. and arrived at the Endowment House in Salt Lake City at 7 A.M. I got baptized and confirmed for the following dead persons: Elder Samuel Smith administered Baptism and Elder Joseph F. Smith the confirmation. 1st Daniel John my father born April 1st 1793, died March 31st 1856; 2nd Thomas John my brother born November 25th 1835, died June 29th 1859 aged 23 years, 6 months, 14 days, and 6 hours. 3rd Thomas John my grandfather born 1769, died December 11, 1834, aged 65 years; 4th For David John my great-grandfather; 5th John John, my father's brother, died July 5th 1863, aged 57 years; 6th David Williams my grandfather; 7th David Williams my great-grandfather; 8th Alban Harries, great-grandfather on my mother's side, being the father of her mother; 9th John James a Baptist Minister; 10th Henry Lewis a great friend of mine; 11th William John second cousin. Visited the Tabernacle in Salt Lake, the Deseret News Office, President Brigham Young's Office, and the Church Historians Office. Had an interesting conversation with President George A. Smith. Lodged at the house of Elder Elwin Peck.

3rd Left Salt Lake City at 5 A.M. accompanied with 17 missionaries for Europe. Arrived at Ogden at 7 A.M. Left there at 8 A.M. by the Union Pacific Railroad and arrived at Omaha in two days and two nights. Between those two points we passed over 100 stations, the principals being "Wasatch Bryan", "Bitter Creek", Rawlings, "Laramie", "Cheyenne", Sidney, North Platte, Grand Island, Northbent, and Fremont. The scenes were delightful. At Omaha we met Elder Albert Carrington and son. We ferried the Missouri River to its north bank and secured tickets on the North Western Railroad and passed through the state of "Iowa", left that state at 10:30 A.M.

6th We crossed the "Mississippi" being one mile in width. After crossing this majestic river we entered the state of Illinois and travelled on its north borders. I thought it was the best land I ever saw.

7th At 7:30 A.M. (Being Sunday) we arrived at Massillon City in the state of Ohio, being an extensive city. I should have remarked that we arrived at Chicago at 4:45 P.M. on May 5th. We arrived at Allegheny City at 12 noon Sunday 7th and crossed the river to "Pittsburgh" and there changed cars for "Philadelphia". The Allegheny River separates the states of Ohio and Pennsylvania. Intervening the cities of Pittsburgh and Philadelphia are score of cities and towns, the principals being Rochester, Alliance, and Harrisburg.

8th Arrived at Philadelphia at 4 A.M. and passed 2 miles north of the City, being within sight. We changed cars for New York and arrived at New York at 7 A.M. We travelled through the state of New Jersey, after arriving at Jersey, ferried the river to New York. We put up at Stephen's Hotel on Broadway. Spent the day in visiting the city, wrote a letter to my family in the evening. The distance from Salt Lake to New York, the way we travelled was 2483 miles.

9th Rode 6 miles to Central Park and there viewed many fine collections of wild animals. Returned to our Hotel in the evening.

10th Sailed on Board the "Colorado". Sailed at 10 A.M. being a fine day. Sailed at the rate of 10 miles an hour all day.

11th Fine day, sailed at the rate of 12 miles an hour.

12th Fair winds from the South West, sailed 12 miles an hour, encountered rough sea in the evening, many of the passengers being sick.

13th Fine morning, raining at noon, entered the "banks of Newfoundland", it became stormy and foggy, it rained heavy day and night. The Ocean at midnight became tempestuous, the Steamer was tossed like if it were a small cask, the waves pouring in on deck, it was unsafe to move around. Many of the Irish passengers prayed for the Holy Virgin and the departed Apostles to come to their rescue. One of the sailors fell and broke two of his ribs, fell on his head and opened his skull fearfully, when we left the ship there was no hope for his recovery. I got on Deck at midnight and as soon as I stepped on I was literally covered with water, I was tossed in a moment from one end of the ship to the other but was unhurt. I caught hold in some ropes for a few moments and viewed the ocean. The elements were boiling, far surpassing language. I returned to my berth, placed my fingers in mine ears to drown in part the roaring of the deep. I must here mention that every soul on board were in great fear except 21 Elders of our Church who all seemed calm and tranquil in their feelings, they had faith in God and in the glad tidings they bore to the nations.

14th Sunday. Stormy all day, still dark and rainy, the Steamer gave signals of danger from the boiler all day every ½ minute.

15th Raining, cleared the Banks at 6 A.M., the fog gradually disappearing. It was fine and clear at noon. We were 1348 miles East of New York, for the last few hours we sailed on course at the rate of 11 miles per hour. Yesterday we had 18 missionaries sick, Elders Carrington, John Pyper, and myself were preserved well to wait on the others (I think). It became calm and fine in the evening, health was restored. The following were our missionaries: 1. Albert Carrington of Salt Lake City 2. Brigham Carrington of Salt Lake City 3. George Reynolds of Salt Lake City 4. Charles H. Watkins of Heber City 5. Thomas Dobson of Coalville 6. William Anderson of Salt Lake City 7. Ferdinand Hansley of Payson 8. John B. Fairbanks of Payson 9. David John of Provo City 10. John Huber of Midway 11. John Pyper of Nephi 12. John Roberts of Lehi 13. Nils Peter Jensen of Sanpete 14. James E. Leishman of Cache County 15. George P. Ward of Wellsville 16. Benjamin Driggs of Pleasant Grove 17. Eliza Box of Box Elder 18. Ralph Harrison of Cache County 19. William M. Bromley of Springville 20. Caleb W. Haws of Provo 21. George Wilkins of Spanish Fork.

16th Fine day, met a vessel at 7 A.M. that left Liverpool the same day we left New York. We were half the distance to Liverpool at dusk. Averaged 10 miles to the hour all day. Have a head wind, sailed 250 ½ miles in the last 24 hours, being at noon 1606 ½ miles from "Sandyhook" or 1700 miles from New York.

17th Fine day, at noon we were 1862 ½ miles from New York and had sailed 256 miles during the last 24 hours.

18th At 10 P.M. we saw a ship in distress 10 miles north of us. We sailed to it and the Captains spoke to each other. He refused being assisted, the Steamer belonged to the East India Company.

19th Fine day, by noon we found we had sailed 270 miles during the last 24 hours being 2236 ½ miles from New York.

20th Had a fine and calm sea, could see a long distance. Saw a few land swallows in the morning, an indication that land was near. At noon learned that we had sailed 260 miles in the last 24 hours, we were 2755 miles from New York and 145 miles West of Queenstown, Ireland.

21st By the dawn of day we found ourselves along the coast of Ireland. At 7 A.M. we anchored opposite "Queenstown". 33 passengers left us and landed, 80 mail sacks were left for Ireland. Left at 7:30 A.M. and had a good view of the County of "Cork" on the North. Sailed along side of it all morning. The green pastures were beautifully covered with Spring foliage. At 7:30 P.M. discovered North Wales on the South, fine weather, we arrived within 10 miles of Liverpool about 5 A.M. on the 22nd and there cast anchor. Waited there 4 ½ hours for the tide.

22nd Took up anchor at 9:30 A.M. and landed in Liverpool at 10:30 A.M. were detained in the Custom House 1 hour and had our luggage examined. Proceeded to Great Cross Hall St. and engaged rooms at Mr. Crowther's Hotel. Dined and went to the Millennial Star Office 42 Islington and conversed for 1 ½ hours with the brethren in the Office. Took a bath and spent the afternoon in viewing the City. At 9:30 P.M. I went again to the Office and met Elders A. Carrington and Horace Eldridge and conversed with them 'till 11 P.M. and retired to my lodgings. We could not rest all night being annoyed with some Irish next door who spent the night in fighting.

23rd Spent the day mostly in the Office. At 4 P.M. all the missionaries met there and were appointed to the fields of labor. I was appointed to labor in Wales in the Presidency thereof, received good general instructions from Elders A. Carrington and H. Eldridge.

24th Left Liverpool at 7:15 A.M. and arrived in Merthyr South Wales at 2:45 P.M. Went to the Conference house, 41 Mary St. kept by Elder William Jones "Pontyfund" Many of the Saints visited me.

25th Spent the day visiting town and the Saints. Elder Eleazar Edwards the Conference President arrived from Cardiff. Preached in Welsh and English to the Saints in the evening.

26th Left at 9 A.M. and arrived at my mother's house in Pembrokeshire at 6 P.M. distance 100 miles. As I passed through the town of my birth, a thousand sensations rushed through my brains. I looked all around as I walked through the streets. I looked for my old playmates but did not see any. I looked at the old playground, witnessed scores of children engaged in different amusements, the first feeling was to look for my old playmates, but could not recognize any, reason whispered you must not look for the boys of 30 years ago, these are their posterity. I looked and inquired of the old people, they were in the dust. All seemed to me a new generation with strange faces. I stood and gazed, the people gazed at me, but all was strange. Tears filled my eyes, I walked on silently 'till I came within sight of my mother's house. There I saw an aged Mother standing by the door, looking earnestly towards me. A lady by her side asked her if she knew that stranger, she replied "no, but O dear he walks exactly like my husband when he was young". "It may be your son" replied the lady, no, was the reply he will not be here for a month yet. Watch, says the lady, he is weeping, by this time I was melted in tears, at what I saw and heard, my mother saw my tears and rushed towards me weeping, embracing me in arms exclaiming, "I know this is my David". My relations and friends visited me and I was greatly welcomed. This was the first time that I saw my mother for 10 years.

27th Spent the day with my mother.

28th Sunday. Many visited me, in the evening I visited the graves of my father, brother, and Grand father, visited the old Church of my boyhood.

29th Went to Tregroes Farm in company with my cousin Mary Rowe and her husband. I saw Levi and Ebenezer Williams and the latter's family, they are brothers to my mother. They received me kindly. I visited Fishguard and visited David Williams an old friend. Returned to my mother's house in the evening.

June 1871

5th Remained at my mother's 'till this date. Left her house at 3:30 P.M. and walked 9 miles to Haverfordwest. I wrote 4 articles to the "Millennial Star" while at my mother's. She accompanied me 3 miles on the way and when we parted she cried bitterly. She said that she had but a few days more to live on the earth and she partly promised to go with me to Utah. I arrived at Haverfordwest at 7 P.M. and lodged there that night.

6th Left for Llanelly "Carmarthenshire" at 11:30 A.M., arrived there by rail at 1:30 P.M. distance of 50 miles. Met Eleazar Edwards, preached there in the evening, lodged at the "Cambrian Hotel".

7th Spent the morning with Mr. David Williams, independent Minister. I spent 7 years with him in school and under his tuition. I preached the Gospel to him and he paid good attention. He is a third cousin of mine. He accompanied me 12 miles to Swansea where I preached in the evening.

8th In company with Bro. Edwards visited the Saints and went to "Neath" 8 miles off in the afternoon preached to the Saints at 7 P.M. Edwards left for "Worcester, England".

9th Left "Neath" by rail for Merthyr, distance some 20 miles and spent the day in writing.

10th Elder Thomas Howells, President of the Bristol Conference arrived on a visit. Bro. E. Edwards returned from Worcester.

11th Sunday. Left for Aberdare attended a District meeting of the Priesthood in the morning. Preached to them in the afternoon and evening, enjoyed the spirit of the Lord and found them warm hearted people.

12th Returned to Merthyr and spent the day in reading and writing.

13th Left by rail 20 miles to the "Graig Farm" to the house of my father in law, arrived there at 10:30 A.M. found William Wride, my wife's brother, well and was kindly received by him. Several of the relations spent the evening with us. (Daniel Davies, Thomas and Stephen Wride).

14th Left for Cardiff at 8 A.M., visited Peter Wride, my wife's brother, also John D. Wride, found them well, were kindly received by them. Left Cardiff for Newport at 5 P.M., went to the Conference house on Bolt St. and tarried there over night.

15th Elders Caleb Parry and John Roberts arrived from visiting the Branches of the Church in Monmouthshire. Spent the evening in examining the Conference Books and the general business of the Conference.

16th Elder Parry and myself went to "Cwmbran" and visited an Elderly member of the Church in relation to his emigration this season. Found him in a grave yard by the grave of his wife. He was 74 years of age but told us he was going to Utah, he had a son living in St. George, Utah Territory, and although he was old he accomplished his journey. We blessed him in the name of Lord and returned to Newport. In the evening we walked 3 miles from town and visited a family by the name of Lewis who were to emigrate on June 21st. We imparted some instructions to this family in relation to gather with the Saints and and returned to Newport. We walked through Lord Tredegar's Park which affords us a delightful sight. This Park consists of 1000 acres of land. It contained the largest trees I ever saw in England. I measured one 19 feet in circumference. The Park contained several thousand of deer and sheep. The road through it is 2 miles in length.

17th Sunday. I left Bros. Barry and Roberts and went by rail to Cardiff, met there Bro. Edwards, preached 3 times during the day and lodged at Canton in the house of Elder Thomas Bassett.

18th Spent the day in Cardiff, preached in the evening.

19th Returned to Merthyr, spent the day in receiving Books and Finances from Edwards, the Conference President. Visited some apostates in the evening.

20th Bro. Edwards left for Utah at 9 A.M. in good spirits, spent the day in visiting the saints in company with Elder Howells.

21st Spent the day in writing.

22nd Elder Thomas left for Aberdare. I preached at Merthyr in the evening.

23rd I went to Aberdare and in company with Bro. Howells went through Aberaman, Capcoch and to Cefn Penar farm to see a member of the Church by the name of Williams, he was not home, proceeded to Mountain Ash and preached there at 7:30 P.M. Went by rail to Treorky 17 miles distance and lodged in the house of Elder Timothy Morley.

24th Visited Mardy Farm on the mountain top, the landlady being a member of the Church. She being not home, preached the Gospel to Miss Annie Jones, the daughter of the Landlord and to the servant maid. Returned to Treorky and visited the Saints

25th Sunday. Attended a council meeting in the morning, preached to the saints in the afternoon. Bro. Howells and I parted. I returned by rail to Merthyr, distance 21 miles and preached at 6 P.M. for one hour and 15 minutes to a crowded hall. Received good attention. Laid hands on a sick child at 10 P.M.

26th Spent the day in writing my quarterly and yearly afe for the Liverpool Office.

27th Spent the morning with John R. Davies, clerk of the Conference on business. Wrote letters to Bishop A. O. Smoot and others, preached to the Saints in "Pendarran" in the evening.

28th Engaged in the Office.

29th Writing out our Yearly reports of the Conference.

30th Preached in the evening in the Saints Hall at Merthyr.

July 1871

1st At 8 A.M. left for Swansea, stayed one hour at Neath and 3 hours at Swansea, took rail for "Alltwen" Branch in "Cwmtawy" 9 miles from Swansea, lodged with Bro. Gibbs, met Elder John Davis, a worthy young man whom I knew 14 years previous, found them (thin and frail) still in strong faith in the Gospel.

2nd Sunday. Held a District meeting in the morning, 3 branches met, "Alltwen" Birch Grove, and "Ystalyfera" and also the Neath Branch. I preached to the Saints twice and in the evening to the world, we had a good assembly and great attention given.

3rd Visited Ystalyfera" Branch, went from house to house and asked them to attend meeting in the evening. I preached to them at 7 P.M. but found nearly all dead, they promised to reform and turn to God. I lodged in the house of Elder Lewis Lewis, the Branch President.

4th Left by rail for Swansea 12 miles South. I visited the saints from house to house and visited Francis Williams, the Branch President, preached in a public Hall in Swansea at 7:30 P.M. and lodged in a Hotel.

5th Spent the morning visiting the saints, took dinner with Sister "Unger". Went to Llanelly 12 miles distance, preached in the evening to a small assembly, lodged in the "Cwmbran Inn".

6th Spent the morning in writing , went to Neath, spent the afternoon in the house of Elder William Thomas, preached in the evening, lodged in a Hotel.

7th Went to the house of Elder Thomas Philips, "Aberdylais", took dinner with the family, walked 5 miles to visit Elder Rees Davis. Spent the afternoon in singing and conversation. Walked to Neath through heavy rain, lodged at Neath.

8th Went by rail 18 miles to Bridgend and walked from there 3 miles to "Aberkenfy", was warmly received by Elder Daniel Lloyd whom I became acquainted with in 1853 and conversed with him during a whole night on the Gospel. Visited an old friend, Mr. William Jenkins, he kindly received me, took supper with him. Lodged in the "Rock Inn".

9th Sunday. In the morning walked about 1 mile from Aberkenfy and saw the ruins of the first Iron furnace ever known built in Wales. It had not been in use for 400 years. It was built of small rock and had become cemented together. I preached at 2 and at 6 P.M., the saints from "Maesteg" and St. Bride met with us, we enjoyed good times.

10th Walked to Bridgend and from there rode 90 miles by rail to "Llantrisant" and walked toward "Pontypridd" so far as "Llantwit" town and by rail from there to Merthyr, 18 miles distance. Spent the evening in reading and writing.

11th Went by rail to Newport, distance 28 miles, at Pontypool met some saints on their way to Utah. Elder Caleb Parry met me at the Station, remained in town 6 hours. Went by rail to Caergwent and walked from Major Station on the Gloucester Road, it was a beautiful scene. We went to the house of Elder Abraham Hodges, the spirit of God was with the household. We met there a young lady, Miss Emma Stedder, we preached the Gospel to her and urged upon her the necessity of baptism, we labored with her for several hours, when she promised to be baptized the next morning (did baptize her). Visited a Mrs. Woodland in the evening, her husband was an Elder in the Church and had emigrated to America. We found her much opposed to the Church, I bore my testimony to her and at last she promised to be baptized at a future day and that she should follow her husband in 1872. Visited Elder Thomas Curtis. Lodged in the house of Bro. Hodges.

12th At 5 A.M. I baptized Emma Stedder, aged 25, Emma Hodges, aged 8. Bro. Parry and myself confirmed them, the spirit of God was much enjoyed. Visited one Bro. Riddle about 3 miles from "Chepstow" and imparted council to them in relation to their duties in the Church. Visited the town of Caldicott and visited the ruined castle of that place, the walls being in a state of preservation. It had 8 towers, the walls were 9 feet thick. It was the ruins of a very large castle. We went to Newport 12 miles distance. Attended a Baptist meeting in the evening. Dr. H. Grathan Ginneas preached on the love of Christ, it was pomp and show without the power of the word.

13th Spent the day in writing at Newport.

14th Spent the day in writing, visited the saints in the evening.

15th At 10:30 A.M. Elder Parry left for Birmingham to fill an appointment there to preside, this was the last time I saw him in the flesh.

16th Sunday. Left for Cardiff by rail, arrived there at 10:30 A.M., preached there 3 times during the day. We had a good spirit in our midst.

17th Visited the Saints in Cardiff and Canton, urged the importance of gathering with the Saints on Bro. Samuel Shepton who was a wealthy man. Spent a few hours viewing the Volunteers of Cardiff passing a review. Preached at Canton in the evening. Lodged at Bro. Bassett's.

18th Remained in this town 'till 6 P.M., at the Railroad Station met my cousin John John whom I had not seen for 13 years, we recognized each other. I went with him to Pontypridd and there met my cousin David John and John's wife. John had 3 children and David 4. Spent the night with them. David John died about 3 months after this of the small pox.

19th Went by rail to Merthyr and spent the day there.

20th Received 12 letters, heard from my wife and family, all well in Utah, preached in the evening at Merthyr.

21st Spent the day in Merthyr.

22nd We went to Tredegar 80 miles from Merthyr, spent the afternoon in visiting the saints in company with Elder John Davies whom I had not seen for 13 years, himself and wife kindly received me.

23rd Sunday. At 11 A.M. the Elders from Tredegar, Ebbw Vale, Rhymney, and Blaenau met and held 3 meetings during the day and enjoyed a rich flow of the Spirit of Truth. Walked to Rhymney in the evening and lodged in the house of Elder Henry Haynes.

24th Walked to Merthyr 4 miles over a mountain and spent the day in the Conference house.

25th Spent the day in the same place.

26th Visited "Colly" Branch in company with Bro. Edmund Harmon, found the saints in good feeling, I conversed with the Saints on the Gospel 'till 11 P.M. Lodged in the house of a widow named Sister Hannah Lewis in company with Elder Harmon.

27th Returned to Merthyr, visited a Flower show in the afternoon, there I saw the largest collections of flowers in life, went by rail in the evening to Aberdare and preached in Aberamon at 8 P.M. Lodged in that town.

28th Visited the Saints in Aberamon, Aberdare, and Heal-y-felin At 10 P.M. returned to Merthyr.

29th Spent the day with the Clerk of the Conference.

30th Sunday. Preached 3 times in Merthyr, had good attention.

31st Spent the day in Merthyr, walked 3 miles to "Cefn", preached there at 7 P.M. and returned to Merthyr.

August 1871

1st Spent the day in writing in Merthyr, wrote to General B. Pace in Utah. Walked 3 miles to Troedyrhyw, preached at 7 P.M. Saw Mrs. Jane Evans, aged 81, who being a Sister to John Davies my wife's grandfather, She knew my wife.

2nd Spent the day in Merthyr, a few saints from Rhymney paid me a visit. Went to "Dowlais" and preached there at 7 P.M. Returned to Merthyr.

3rd At Merthyr, preached in the evening at 7 P.M.

4th Spent the day in writing, wrote a letter to Bro. George Q. Cannon of Utah.

5th Left at 9 A.M. for Swansea, went to "Alltwen" in the evening, lodged with Bro. Rees Gibb's.

6th Sunday. Preached at 10 A.M. and at 2 P.M. I had intended to preach in Swansea in the evening, missed the train, walked to Llansamlet and rode by rail to Swansea, too late for meeting.

7th At noon went to Llanelly and visited that branch. Released Henry Williams from the Branch Presidency on account going to Utah and appointed John Williams as President, at 9 P.M. went by rail to "Raven's" place 2 miles from Swansea, visited a family of Saints there by the name of Richards, the husband having gone to Utah 2 years previous, the family were left for the need of funds.

8th Visited the saints in the morning, at noon went to Llanelly, some saints going on their way to Utah the following day. In the afternoon visited the house of Mr. John Lewis "Brynlyfryd" 2 miles from Swansea, he being a brother to Elder William G. Lewis of Provo, Utah. He was 58 years of age. Himself and family received my visit with many thanks, went to Birch Grove.

9th Wrote a letter to Sister Jane Kelly, Beaver Utah, for her sister Mary Davies, Birch Grove, and one to William J. Lewis, Provo. In the afternoon walked to Neath Abby and visited a few families of Saints, preached at "Neath" in the evening, had good attention.

10th Walked to "Aberdylais" stayed 4 hours in the house of Bro. Thomas Phillips, Bros. Rees Davies and wife met me there, we enjoyed good times there. At 5 P.M. left by rail for Merthyr, preached to the Saints in the evening. Met Elder John Roberts who had returned from Staffordshire paying his mother a visit.

11th Writing all day.

12th Went in company with Bro. Roberts to Newport, 28 miles by rail. On our way visited a family of Saints at "Llanisabon", named Thomas Edwards, and gave them instructions in relation to their emmigration.

13th Sunday. Preached 3 times in Newport, the Saints from "Caergwent" were present. I found the Saints very dead in this branch, with the exception of a few. It became to heavy thunders in the evening.

14th spent the day at Newport.

15th Walked the most part of the way to "Abergahan", went from there to "Garndiffaith" and preached to the Saints in the evening. The spirit of God was enjoyed in rich abundance.

16th Visited the Saints in "Garndiffaith", Abersychan", and Pontypool, took dinner with Sister Nash, went by rail from there to Abergfeni, spent the evening with the Saints in interesting conversation.

17th Walked to Llanelly Breconshire, from thence to "Brynmawr" from there to "Blaenau" Monmouthshire, visited many of the Saints during the day. I felt very tired this evening having travelled much, lodged in the house of Elder John Williams.

18th Visited Mariah Jones' family of Pembrokeshire, was received kindly by herself and husband Mr. Charles Jones. Walked from there to "Penycae", visited the Saints there, crossed the mountains to "Tredegar", visited the saints in the evening from house to house. Lodged in the house of Bro. Thatcher.

19th Walked to Merthyr though Rhymney, received many letters containing interesting news from Utah.

20th Sunday. Went by rail to Cardiff, preached there 3 times during the day, went to Canton to Lodge.

21st Visited Mr. Peter Wride, dined with him, visited my cousin David John's house, I saw his wife and 4 children, he was away from home. Returned to Merthyr in the evening , received a letter from my wife and family. My daughter Elizabeth had been sick with the lung fever but was better at date of writing.

22nd Spent the day in Merthyr, wrote several letters, attended a prayer meeting, in the house of Sister Jane Davis.

23rd At Merthyr, spent the day in writing. Wrote to my wife and to her brother Barry Wride.

24th Spent the day in writing.

25th Also this day in corresponding.

26th In company with Elder J. Roberts visited Rhymney, Pontlothynand, Tredegar, lodged in Tredegar.

27th Sunday. There was 5 or 6 Branches met, preached to them 3 times during the day.

28th Spent the day in visiting the Saints of Tredegar in company with Elder David Jones Victoria.

29th At 7 A.M. Elders John Davies and Daniel Crump and families 13 in number left for Cleveland, Ohio where they intend to spend the winter and then proceed to Utah in 1872. I walked to Merthyr 8 miles.

30th and 31st Spent in making out my monthly accounts to the Liverpool Office.

September 1871

1st Spent the day in Merthyr.

2nd Engaged in writing in the Office.

3rd Sunday. Preached 3 times in Merthyr, several branches met and good time was enjoyed.

4th Spent the morning in Merthyr, went to Cardiff and preached there in the evening, lodged with Bro. Bassett Canton.

5th Went in company with Roberts to Bridgend 20 miles by rail, walked 3 miles to Aberkenfey and preached there in the evening and enjoyed good times.

6th Went through "Pyle" to Neath and preached there in the evening, lodged in the house of Elder Rees Davis.

7th Went from Neath to Alltwen Branch and from there to "Ystalyfara" preached there in the evening.

8th Went to Swansea and preached there at 8 P.M.

9th Spent the day in Swansea visiting the Saints.

10th Sunday. Several of the Branches met, had good meetings in the morning and evening, but in the evening the spirit of God was withdrawn. I felt satisfied that many partook of the Sacrament unworthily.

11th I spent the morning in the Swansea Docks, went to Birch Grove Branch in the evening, found the saints in full faith. Lodged in the house of Bro. John Turner.

12th Walked 5 miles to Neath in company with Elder Lewis Davis and family. Was many of the saints, saw a drunken woman thrashing a man. Had a long discussion with a Clergyman, many gathered around us. Spent a pleasant evening with the Saints.

13th Returned to Merthyr, received a letter from my wife, all well at home. Spent the evening in writing.

14th At Merthyr, received the news from Pres. Carrington that Elder Caleb Parry was sick with the small pox at Birmingham and that he was hopeless. I sent a telegram to Birmingham to inquire about Parry. I preached to the Saints at 8 P.M.

15th Received an answer from Birmingham that Bro. Parry was better. Wrote a letter to my family, one to Joseph Parry Ogden Utah and some others. Received a letter from Bro. Caleb W. Haws from Manchester advising me that he would be with me the day following at Cardiff paying me a visit.

16th Received a letter from Pres. Carrington informing me that Bro. Parry was all better. Caleb W. Haws arrived at Cardiff at 3 P.M. I went to Cardiff and met him. Spent the afternoon in visiting Cardiff and the Cardiff Docks.

17th Sunday. Preached 3 times at Canton and Cardiff, Haws spoke also. Lodged at Canton.

18th Went to Newport, met Elder Roberts, spent the day together.

19th Haws and myself spent the day visiting around Tredegar, saw the Cemetery and Lord Tredegar's Park.

20th Rode to Cardiff and back on business, left Newport for Garndifaeth, went through Pontypool, preached in the evening, one Benjamin Jones promised to be baptized. We had an excellent meeting, lodged in the house of a Bro. Scott.

21st Visited the Saints in Pontypool, rode by rail to Abergafeni, preached there in the evening, enjoyed good times. Elder John Jasper invited us to his house to lodge.

22nd Spent the day in visiting the Saints.

23rd At 7 A.M. received with sadness the news of the death of Elder Caleb Parry, went to "Brynmawr" by rail and from there to "Blaenau", spent the evening in the house of Bro. John Williams instructing the Saints.

24th Walked 7 miles to Tredegar, called at Ebbw Vale, preached 3 times during the day at Tredegar. Enjoyed good meetings it being Sunday. Walked 4 miles in the evening and lodged in the house of Henry Haynes.

25th Walked 4 miles to Merthyr, on my arrival I received 11 letters and 2 telegrams from Birmingham, two inviting me to go and see Parry, he was dead before I received them. Spent the day in writing.

26th Spent the day in writing, preached in the evening. Wrote a letter to Pres. A. Carrington.

27th Went to Aberdare, preached in Aberamon at 8 P.M. It rained all day.

28th Bro. Caleb W. Haws left me at 9:25 A.M. for Manchester, just having received an appointment to preside over the Sheffield Conference. Haws spent 12 days with me. This was the last time I saw him in the flesh. I returned to Merthyr and preached at 8 P.M.

29th Attended a funeral of Elder David Thomas, he had been in the Church for many years. He was buried at the Cefn Cemetery. I preached in the funeral in the Chapel in the Cemetery. Had a full house and good attention. Anamorous Club was present of which he was a member. I took for a text "not my will but thy will be done". While in the Cemetery visited the grave of Elder Abel Evans of "Lehi" who died while on a mission 4 years previous. He was 53 years of age. It rained all day, returned to Merthyr in the evening.

30th Received a long correspondence from Pres. Carrington in relation to various business in the mission. Spent the day in Merthyr among the Saints.

October 1871

1st Sunday. Held a District Meeting. Preached 3 times during the day and felt blessed in our labors.

2nd Spent the day in making out my monthly Balance sheet.

3rd Wrote my quarterly reports and sent them to Liverpool.

4th Spent the day in writing.

5th At 9 A.M. left by rail for Graig Farm, spent the day with my wife's family.

6th Spent the day in Park Cottage with the family of John Wride. I visited Mr. Thomas Wride Blue House, walked to Cardiff and lodged with Peter Wride.

7th Left Cardiff for London at 9:30 A.M. and arrived there at 5:30 P.M., went to the Conference house on Islington, met many of the missionaries, spent a happy evening together. Lodged in company with Bro. George P. Ward from Manchester.

8th Sunday. Attended Conference of the Church at McDonald's Hall, 11 of our missionaries were present, meeting opened at 10 A.M., prayer offered by myself, 3 meetings were held, all the missionaries preached during the day. The evening meeting was disturbed by "Josephites", they were told to leave the house. We had good instructions through the day.

9th Visited the Crystal Palace and many places of note. In the evening attended a Concert of the Saints. Enjoyed a happy evening.

10th Visited the Geological Gardens, Hyde Park, St. James Park. Visited the "Alhambra" 'till 10 P.M. saw some good actors.

11th Visited St. Paul's Cathedral and Westminister Abby. The Houses of "Lords and Commons". Visited madam Tassaurd works, attended a Theatre at the strand 22 Minstrels took part in the performances.

12th Left London at 11:30 A.M. by the Midland Railroad, passed through St. Albans, Bedford, Leicester and arrived in Birmingham at 5 P.M. in company with B. W. Driggs, preached there at 8 P.M. and enjoyed a full flow of the spirit.

13th Spent the day in this city, bought myself a suit of clothes.

14th Spent the day there.

15th Sunday. Preached twice in the evening the Hall was crowded. I preached from the words "Seek ye first the Kingdom of God and its righteousness". One young lady presented herself for baptism. Had good times.

16th Visited the grave of Caleb Parry, attended Theatre at 8 P.M.

17th Left Birmingham at 9:30 A.M. and arrived at Newport at 2 P.M., tarried there 3 hours, went to Cardiff in the evening and preached at 7:30 P.M. Assisted some saints to emigrate during the day.

18th Left Cardiff for Merthyr, stayed 4 hours there, received letters from home, my family being well. Took train at 4 P.M., went to Neath, preached in the evening, the spirit of God was poured upon the Saints.

19th left at 11 A.M. arrived in my mother's house 80 miles distance, in the evening took supper with my mother and cousin Mary Rowe. Found my mother well.

20th At mother's writing.

21st Writing all day.

22nd Sunday. Attended service at the Church of England at 2 P.M. heard much noise but nonsense. Took supper with William John Reed and family.

23rd At my mother's. In the afternoon the Rev. Arthur Richardson met me and my mother and wrote my mothers will. She willed me all her property. Mr. Reed and the Reverend signed it as witnesses. I was made administer.

24th Spent the day in writing and visiting my mother's neighbors.

25th Left my mother's house at 7:30 A.M. She accompanied me 5 miles, she wept bitterly when we parted. Arrived at Haverfordwest, took train to Llanelly, visited the saints in the afternoon, left there at 9 P.M. and arrived in Swansea at 10 P.M. having travelled 80 miles, lodged in the "Golden Inn".

26th Visited the Saints, preached at 7:30 P.M.

27th Left Swansea at 8 A.M., arrived at Merthyr at 9:40 A.M. and spent the day engaged in the Conference house.

28th Went to "Tredegar" through much rain, lodged in the house of Bro. Joseph Thatcher.

29th Sunday. Walked to Ebbw Vale through heavy rain, preached there 3 times and enjoyed much of the Holy Spirit.

30th Spent the day with the Saints in Victoria, "Brynmawr", and Beaufort. Preached in "Brynmawr" at 8 P.M., walked to "Blaenau" after meeting in company with Elder John Williams.

31st Went to Aberdare and "Aberamon" through Merthyr, preached at Aberaman at 8 P.M. and returned to Aberdare to lodge in an "Inn".

2nd Visited the Saints from house to house, went to Merthyr and preached there at 8 P.M.

3rd and 4th Engaged in writing.

5th Sunday. Held 3 meetings in Merthyr and preached in each of them, enjoyed much freedom of the spirit. It was cold and stormy.

6th Mailed my monthly reports to Liverpool, preached in the evening in the house of Mary Thomas, the spirit was enjoyed exceedingly and all rejoiced.

7th Spent the day in Merthyr.

8th Went to "Aberaman", preached at 8 P.M., returned to "Aberdare".

9th Visited the Saints and some apostates, one David Hughes promised to return to the Church. At 6 P.M. returned to Merthyr, preached in the Saints Hall at 8 P.M. Met John Roberts having been sick for 8 weeks in Staffordshire and was restored and returned to his field of labor.

10th Spent the day in Merthyr.

11th Left for Cardiff in the evening, went to Newport, visited the Saints in Cardiff and Newport.

12th Preached three times at Newport being Sunday.

13th At 8 A.M. left and arrived in Bristol at 10 A.M., Elder William Lock and wife met me at the R.R. Depot, spent the day with him in visiting the town and several families of the Saints, found the most of them quite lukewarm in the Gospel. In the evening Emma Steddard who I baptized in June last, visited me, she was engaged to get married to an outsider and conversing a long time with her, she promised me to withdraw the engagement, she is now married to an Elder of the Church and lives at Farmington. I lodged in the Conference House.

14th Visited Bristol and Cliffton, in the afternoon went by rail to "Portskewett" and walked to "Caldicot" Monmouthshire, I visited "Caergwent". In the evening I baptized a man by named Woodland, confirmed him and ordained him an Elder in an open field at 10 P.M. in the midst of a heavy rain. The spirit of God burned in our bosoms, I walked to "Caldicot" at 11 P.M. and lodged with Bro. Abraham Hodges.

15th Went on rail 12 miles to Newport, in the evening visited the Saints in company with Elder Charles Webb and Thomas Curtis.

16th Went 18 miles to "Abergyfene", preach in the house of John Jasper at 8 P.M.

17th Spent the day from house to house instructing the Saints.

18th Travelled 30 miles to Cardiff, visited some families of Saints and lodged at "Canton".

19th Sunday. I preached 3 times in Cardiff, enjoyed a good flow of the Spirit. Learn that Caleb W. Haws was down with the small pox in Barnsley Yorkshire.

20th Walked 5 miles to "Graig Farm", spent the evening with William Wride and Daniel Davies pleasantly.

21st Remained at the "Graig" raining all day. In the evening Bro. Charles Gregory and family, Pres. of the Whitchurch Branch.

22nd Went to Cardiff, visited some apostates, in the evening received the news by a telegram of the death of Bro. C. W. Haws who crossed the sea with me. He died at 3:15 on the 20th. This grieved me exceedingly. I could not sleep all night. I preached at the Saints Hall at 8 P.M. and lodged in the "Little Royal Hotel".

23rd Fogy, the thickest I ever saw. Wrote to my family and to Gilbert Haws Provo in relation to the death of his son. Received letters from Elder George Reynolds Liverpool and others giving me the particulars in relation to Caleb sickness and death. I had to write 'till late at night.

24th Went to Merthyr, wrote several letters to Utah.

25th Wrote during the morning, walked 8 miles to Tredegar.

26th Sunday. Held 3 meetings, preached in each of them, had excellent time throughout the day.

27th Walked 8 miles to Merthyr, spent the day in the Conference house in company with Roberts.

28th Wrote all day, preached at 8 P.M. in the house of Elder Edmund Harmon.

29th Wrote to S. S. Jones and others.

30th Wrote to Bishop A. O. Smoot Provo Utah. I preached in Merthyr at 8 P.M.

December 1871

1st Spent the day in Merthyr.

2nd Engaged in writing in the morning, visited the Saints in the afternoon.

3rd Sunday. Attended three meetings in "Aberamon". I preached 3 times and enjoyed excellent meetings, returned to Merthyr at 8 P.M. by rail.

4th Wrote my monthly reports and mailed them to Liverpool.

5th Spent the day in Merthyr, attended a prayer meeting at 8 P.M.

6th Visited the Saints in "Pendarin" and "Dowlais", plead with some to return to the truth, preached at "Dowlais" at 8 P.M. and returned to the Conference house. The roads were one mess of ice.

7th Went to "Aberdare" in company with Elders Merrett and Jenkins Thomas, visited many of the Saints, went to "Cefn Penar" and thence to Mountain Ash. I preached there at 7:30 P.M. and had a good meeting. Walked to "Capcoch" and lodged with Elder John Jones.

8th Visited the Saints in "Aberdare" and "Heal-y-feln", returned to Merthyr in the evening.

9th Spent the day in reading and writing.

10th Sunday. Travelled 30 miles to Swansea and preached 3 times. The Hall was crowded in the evening, I preached 75 minutes.

11th Fogy day. I went to Birch Grove and conversed with the saints in the evening 'till a late hour.

12th Left Birch Grove at 9 A.M., walked to Llansamlet, went by rail to Neath, remained 1 ½ hour there. The smoke and fog were so thick that I could not see the river from the bridge above. The small pox being bad in town. Left at noon arrived at Merthyr at 1:30 P.M. I preached at 8 P.M. in the house of Elder Benjamin Allen. The good spirit was greatly enjoyed.

13th Spent the day in reading.

14th Spent the day in correspondence, received news from Utah. At 8 P.M. I preached to the Saints.

15th Spent the day in writing. I composed Welsh poetry.

16th Writing and reading all day.

17th Went to Cardiff and attended the funeral of Elder John Thomas. I prayed in his house, services rendered at the Church of England. I preached at 2 P.M. and at 6 P.M. in the Saints Hall (being Sunday).

18th Visited the Saints in the A.M., went 20 miles to "Pendoylan" in company with Elder J. Roberts and preached to a small branch of the Church 'till late P.M. We did not warm all night, we caught severe cold. I spat blood the next morning.

19th Took breakfast with Elder William Evans 80 years old. We walked 4 miles to Llantrisant Station, rode 12 miles to Bridgend, walked 3 miles Aberkenfy And preached at 8 P.M. in the house of Elder Daniel Lloyd. We lodged in the "Queen's Hotel". I spit blood all day.

20th Left at 9 A.M., went to Cardiff, 23 miles off. Visited some Saints in company with Sister Gardner. Had a heavy rain in the afternoon, I broke my umbrella and a new hat got spoiled. Preached at 8 P.M., lodged in Canton.

21st Went to Merthyr, received a letter from my family, preached to the Saints in the evening.

22nd Spent the day in Merthyr.

23rd Spent the day in writing.

24th Sunday. I preached in Traedrhyen at 2 P.M. Elder Henry Thomas accompanied me. I preached in Merthyr at 6 P.M. Sat up till 12:30 midnight in company with a few Elders at which our "Choir" came and Serenaded us, they sang 4 beautiful times on the ushering in of Christmas day.

25th Went to Aberdare and spent the day with the Saints, spent the evening in conversation and singing hymns.

26th Spent the day there, went to Merthyr in the evening.

27th At Merthyr, received letters from Bishop A. O. Smoot and Elder Elias Morris.

28th In the Conference house, preached in our Hall at 8 P.M.

29th Spent the day with J. R. Davies, Clerk of the Conference..

30th Spent the day in this town. In the evening went to "Temperance Hall" and saw dramatic views of the French war with the Prussians, The City of Paris, and the Catholic Church at night Mass were very interesting.

31st Sunday. Attended three meetings and preached in each of them. The Branch choir came to the Conference house and sang hymns 'till they welcomed in the new year and thus ended the year 1871. I travelled upwards of 10,000 miles, preached much. Two of our missionaries died. Persecutions reigned in "Utah" among the Federal Officers, President Young and others imprisoned, but still the Church grew in number and strength, God accompanying the Ministry of his servants with signs following according to promise.

January 1st 1872

At Merthyr, wrote out my monthly accounts and remitted funds to Liverpool.

2nd I wrote my quarterly report and mailed them to Liverpool. Wrote to my family and many others in Utah. Spent a few hours with the Clerk of the Conference.

3rd Visited saints in Pendaren and Dowlais, preached in the latter place at 8 P.M., returned to Merthyr, David Morgan with me.

4th Spent the day in the Office, preached at 8 P.M..

5th Reading all day.

6th Spent the day in writing.

7th Sunday. Walked to Rhymney, preached there at 2 P.M. At 6 P.M. I preached in Tredegar. Hail storm caught me in the morning and with great difficulty I crossed the mountain.

8th Visited some saints in Tredegar and Rhymney and walked to Merthyr in the evening. Wrote some letters, received some from my family.

9th Wrote to my family and others.

10th Spent the day in writing.

11th In the Conference house, preached in the evening. Enjoyed extra good meetings.

12th I wrote to Bishop Smoot Provo, received a copy.

13th Heavy rain, remained in the Office all day writing for the "Millennial Star".

14th Sunday. Travelled 22 miles to Neath. Several Branches met, I preached 3 times and returned to Merthyr at 7 P.M. There were several of the saints down with the small pox in the District.

15th At home, received a letter from the Presidency in Liverpool stating their satisfaction with my promptness in doing business with them, good with the Financial Accounts. I wrote a letter to my daughter aged 9 years.

16th Was sent for to lay hands on Bro. Thomas Merrett Aberdare. I found him prostrated with pain, his family were all in tears. I administered unto him in the name of the Lord Jesus. He soon left his bed and went out with me to visit some families of saints. He bore testimony to all the saints that God had healed him that day. Many of the Elders paid him a visit in the evening, they were astonished to see him well, they rejoiced in their hearts. I returned to Merthyr in the night, giving praise to the Lord.

17th Spent the day in the Office being the severest weather of the season. Wrote to President A. Carrington to Utah and reserved a copy in my pocket journal.

18th In Merthyr, preached at 8 P.M.

19th Spent the day in the Office.

20th Went to Cardiff at 3 P.M., visited a fine Circus in the evening. Lodged at "Little Royal Hotel".

21st Sunday. Attended 3 meetings, preached each time, had a good extra one in the evening. Lodged at Canton with Bro. Bassett.

22nd Went to Graig Farm, got much rain on the day. I spent the evening in Cross Roads. Mr. Daniel Davies being my uncle in law, stayed there overnight.

23rd Spent the day at Graig Farm in company with Davies and Wride.

24th Walked to Cardiff and to from there to Merthyr at 8 P.M. Received good news from my family. Suffered from a sore throat for the last 3 days.

25th In the office during the day.

26th Bro. B. W. Driggs arrived from Birmingham paying me a visit.

27th Visited the Iron Works in the vicinity in company with Driggs.

28th Went to Tredegar being Sunday. Held 3 meetings, Elder Driggs and myself preached took up the time. Walked to Rhymney and lodged in the house of Elder H. Haynes.

29th This being my birth day I am 39 years of age. Went to "Tredegar" and thence to "Abergyfeni" and preached there at 8 P.M.

30th Visited the town and vicinity, preached in the evening.

31st Went in company with Driggs 18 miles to Newport, visited the town and Docks, visited some of the Saints. Left for Cardiff at 5 P.M., preached there at 8 P.M. We had an interesting time. Lodged in Cardiff with Bassett.

February 1st

Visited Cardiff and its Docks. Left for Merthyr and preached there at 8 P.M.

2nd Spent the day in the Office, received cheering news from President Carrington Salt Lake. Answered him in the evening.

3rd Visited the Saints, visited the grave of Elder Abel Evans. Attended a funeral service in the Cemetery. A Clergyman of the English Church preached, returned to Merthyr and there met Elder John Roberts, having returned from Monmouthshire.

4th Sunday. Attended 3 meetings, many of the Elders preached during the day. It was a feast for the Saints to meet so many missionaries.

5th Bro. Driggs left for Harford at 1 P.M. I remained in Merthyr.

6th Spent the day in the Office.

7th Wrote all day.

8th Spent the morning in company with Bro. Merritt, went to Neath in the evening.

9th Went to Swansea, lodged in the Golden Lion, cold all night hot having many clothes on bed.

10th Spent the day in visiting the Saints. I baptized Albert Unger in the sea and confirmed him on board of a ship of which he had the charge, got quite wet in the rain. Visited Bro. David Lewis and repaired to my lodgings.

11th Sunday. Preached 3 times in Swansea and enjoyed much of the Spirit of the Lord.

12th Left at 10:35 for Haverfordwest 62 ½ miles and from thence to my mother's house 10 miles by stage, found her well and she was greatly pleased to see me.

13th Spent the day with my mother.

14th All this day visited some of her neighbors.

15th At my mother's, wrote all day.

16th Engaged in writing.

17th Left for Haverfordwest in company with mother and Miss Caroline Morgans. Walked 9 miles. Went with her to Mr. William Davies Solicitor where she received some money and gave it to me. We parted at 2 P.M., she again wept. She returned home. I rode 9 miles to New Milford with Elder William White. I was kindly received with the family having not seen them for 15 years.

18th Rode to Haverfordwest in company with Bro. White, held a meeting at 2 P.M., 17 saints were present, mostly my old friends whom I had not seen for 15 years. We had an exceeding good time together. We returned to Milford after meeting.

19th Visited the Pattern Dock Yard where the Government employed 1500 men. Examined fine ships in course of erection. The works covers an area of 95 acres of land.

20th Left New Milford at 11 A.M. arrived at Llanelly at 2 P.M. Spent the evening with Elders John Jones and John Williams, lodged with the latter.

21st Left at 10 A.M. for Swansea, remained there 'till 3:30 P.M., went to Merthyr, spent the evening in the Conference house.

22nd Spent the day in the Office. I preached at 8 P.M.

23rd Spent the day in writing and visiting the Saints.

24th Several letters I sent to Utah. This was the 68th day it has rained successfully in Merthyr. At least there was no day without some rain part of the day for 9 weeks and 5 days.

25th Sunday. I went by rail to Tredegar and held 3 meetings, there enjoyed good times with the Saints.

26th Visited the Saints in Victoria, Ebbw Vale, Nantyglo and Blaenau in company with Elder David Jones. I returned to Nantyglo and remained over night.

27th Walked to "Brynmawr", visited the saints there in company with Elder William Powell. Visited the Saints in "Beaufort", Rhymney, and Ponttathyn, preached in the latter place at 8 P.M. in the house of Elder James Edwards, we had good meeting.

28th Walked to Merthyr and spent the evening in the Office.

29th Spent the day in Merthyr, preached to the saints at 8 P.M.

March 1st Spent the day in the Conference house, wrote to my family.

2nd Spent the day in writing.

3rd Sunday. Held 3 meetings in Merthyr, had good time.

4th Engaged in making out my monthly accounts, mailed them to Liverpool.

5th Spent the day in visiting the families of the saints.

6th Visited the Old Merthyr Castle 4 miles from town in company with Bro. Harmon. Returned in the evening and was tired.

7th Wrote on business to all the Branch Presidents, preached at 8 P.M. from a text John 20:29.

8th Spent the day in writing and the whole night in dreaming, some of which I will relate hereafter.

9th Spent the morning in Merthyr and in the evening went to Newport. Lodged with Elder Samuel Webb.

10th Sunday. I preached 3 times at Newport, had good attention.

11th Went to Portskewitt and visited all saints in that district 'till a late hour. Felt much freedom of the spirit in meeting and instructing the saints.

12th Visited the sea side of the Bristol Channel, the tide being full, it was a beautiful sight. In the afternoon, returned to Newport and in the evening travelled on rail to "Abergyfeni" Had a pleasant talk with the Saints. Lodged with Bro. Jasper.

13th Spent the day in "Abergyfeni" Wrote to my family. Elder Jacob Watkins and myself preached at 7:30 P.M.

14th Went to "Pontypool", Abersychan, and "Garndiffaith" Visited several families of saints during the day. At 8 P.M. I preached in the house of Elder John Richards "Talywain" Laid hands on three sick persons namely Elders David Thomas, and sisters Scott and Ellis. Walked 4 miles to Pontypool and lodged with Mr. Nash.

15th Left at noon for Newport, spent the remainder part of the day in company with Elder Samuel and Charles Webb.

16th Left for Cardiff at 8:30 A.M., received 3 letters from my family Announcing the birth and death of my youngest daughter. She was blessed by Bishop M. Turner and named Caroline Matilda. She died the same day. Received several letters from Utah, lodged with Peter Wride.

17th Sunday. Preached 3 times in Cardiff, had good meetings.

18th Spent the morning in Cardiff, went to Graig Farm in the evening.

19th spent the most of the day with my brother in law William Wride. Spent the evening with Mr. Daniel Davies Cross Roads.

20th Went to Cardiff and spent the day conversing with the saints.

21st At 11 A.M. left for Merthyr, spent the day in the Conference house, took a Turkish bath.

22nd Spent the day with our Traveling Elders in the Office.

23rd Wrote some letters to Utah, to Bro. James Dunn and others.

24th In company with Elder Edmund Harmon went by rail to "Treorkey" Rhondda Valley 21 miles from Merthyr. Preached there at 2 P.M., had an excellent time, returned by rail and preached in Merthyr at 6 P.M.

25th Monday. Spent the day in the Office with the Clerk of the Conference. Wrote to my wife and comforted her after the loss of her child.

March 1872

26th Visited some saints in Merthyr and vicinity.

27th Left Merthyr at 9:20 A.M. Arrived at Birmingham 112 miles. At 4 P.M. found Bro. Driggs, the Conference President sick suffering from lung fever, administered to him.

28th Spent the day in this great city and preached to a large assembly at 8 P.M. Had an exceeding good time. Preached on the subject that "Sin cannot be regulated, it must be stamped out of existence."

29th In company with Elder B.M. Driggs went to Nottingham 54 miles distance arrived there at 10 A.M. Trained Bishop John B. Fairbanks on food, health, and spirits. Spent the evening with him.

30th Spent the morning in town. At noon left for Sheffield 38 miles distance. Met some missionaries, spent the evening together and enjoyed a good time.

31st Sunday. General Conference was held at Sheffield. Ten of the missionaries were present. Held three meetings which were well attended.

April 1st 1872

Spent the day in council, the saints had a tea party at 5 P.M., 200 present. A concert was held at 8 P.M. dismissed at 11 P.M. The saints enjoyed themselves.

2nd Went to "Barnsley" 17 miles from Sheffield, and from there to "Darton" a small village in Yorkshire. Visited the grave of Bro. Caleb M. Hawes. On the tomb was engraved the following: "Sacred to the memory of Elder Caleb M. Hawes, missionary from Salt Lake City, born Oct. 7, 1838, died Nov. 20, 1871, aged 33 years. He that is dead but sleepeth". We returned by coach to "Barnsley" and from there to Birmingham distance 95 miles, mostly the land between "Burton on Trent" and Birmingham was under water on account of heavy rains. Spent the evening in the conference house with Driggs.

3rd Visited the town and "Cemetery" in company with several Elders. Visited the graves of 2 missionaries whom died while on missions. They were buried in the same grave No. 152 "old Cemetery". The inscriptions on the were thus. "Sacred to the memory James H. Flanigan an Elder in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who departed this life on the 29th January 1851 aged 29 years, while on a mission in this country from America to preach the everlasting gospel as restored in the last days. Rev. 14.6 verse". Also "Our esteemed president Caleb Perry who departed this life on the 19th of Sept. 1871 while on a mission to this country from America, aged 47 years, 10 months 27 days. Deeply lamented. Attended a concert of the saints at 8 P.M. Had an agreeable time.

4th Spent the day in the same town. Elders Thos. Dobson, Ralph Harrison, and myself preached in the evening, good attention.

5th Visited the Branch President, Elder Willis who was quite sick, administered to him and blessed him. Visited the theatre at 8 P.M.

6th Left 11:20 A.M. for Nottingham, arrive there at 2 P.M. Visited the saints, saw many of my old friends, having labored in this town in 1869 and 1870 and lived in it. 27 miles.

7th Sunday. Held a General Conference. 12 of the missionaries present. Held 3 meetings, the Elders spoke with much freedom, the spirit of God attended the ministry. The Hall was crowded and good attention given.

8th Visited the town. The Elders had their portraits taken in a group. I preached at 8 P.M.

9th I visited Mansfield in company with Fairbanks, Geo. Gibbs, and Thos. Dobson. Held a meeting at 8 P.M. saw many of my old friends.

10th Visited the relations of my wife, James Cree, who received me kindly. Visited many of the saints. Visited the saints in "Radford". Returned to Nottingham, preached there in the evening.

11th Left Birmingham, Spent the afternoon with Geo. W. Thatcher. At 8 P.M. I again preached in Hockley Chapel.

12th Visited Elder Willis, laid hands on him and blessed him. Also several families of the saints. Visited "Aston Hall" in the park in which is a museum. It was built in the reign of Queen Elizabeth. This Hall has been patronized by the English Kings from the time of King James in 1603 till now. For fuller details see my pocket journal. We returned to the Conference held at 9 A.M.

13th Travelled 112 miles to Merthyr Arrived there at 7 P.M. Received news from my family, all well.

14th Sunday. Went to "Aberaman" Several Branches met, preached to them three times returned to Merthyr back at 8:15 P.M.

15th In the office, made out my monthly and quarterly reports, mailed them to Liverpool.

16th Went to Cardiff, being the marriage day of "Marques of Bute". The town was full of people and illuminated at night. Returned to Merthyr with the midnight cars.

17th Spent the day in the Office, preached at 8 P.M.

18th In the office writing.

19th Corresponding all day.

20th Went to Cardiff and Canton found Elder Thos. Bassett and 3 children sick with Scarlet fever, I administered to them all and returned to Cardiff. Lodged in the British House.

21st Sunday. Attended 3 meetings and preached in each. Cutt 4 off from the Church for apostasy, among them one John Matthews.

22nd Returned to Merthyr, received letters from Utah, one from my family, all was well.

23rd Preached a funeral sermon at 5 P.M. to a large assembly. Took a text, Luke 16 and 42. It being a funeral of a child of Bro. Richard Thomas. Wrote several letters in the evening.

24th Wrote to my family and several others in Utah.

25th Auditing the Emigration Books and finances and reported the results to Liverpool. Preached at 8 P.M. on the subject of gathering and tithing. Administered to Elder D. Morganes who was sick. He bore testimony to the congregation that he was instantly healed by the power of God.

26th Spent the day in the same town.

27th Elder Elijah A. Box from Bristol arrived on a visit, also Dn. Brinton London, Robinson also from London, J. B. Fairbanks, Nottingham, Ralph Hatton, Sheffield, B. W. Driggs, Birmingham, Geo. Reynolds, Geo. Gibbs, and Thos. Dobson, Liverpool. Spent the evening in a happy reunion.

28th Sunday. Held a General Conference, held 3 meetings and the missionaries spoke. The Spirit of God fell upon the speakers and hearers. The statistical report for the last 9 months was read as follows: 2 High Priests, 170 Elders, 45 priests, 26 Teachers, 35 Deacons, 770 members, making a total of 1022. Received by letters 90, returned 70, Emmigrated 56, Baptized 30, Cutt off 10, died 8.

29th Visited Merthyr and vicinity, saw the Morlais Castle, returned through Dowlais and Pengarnddu. At 8 P.M. attended a concert held by the Saints and had a pleasing time.

30th The most part of the Elders returned to their varied fields of labor. I left for Cardiff accompanied by Elders Geo. Reynolds, Fairbanks, and Thomas Dobson. Went 3 miles to "Ely" and witnessed horse racing. Returned to Cardiff and preached in the Saints Hall at 8 P.M.

May 1872

1st At 8:15 Elders Reynolds and Fairbanks, accompanied me to Neath, visited the Saints from house to house, in the evening left for Swansea and preached at 8 P.M., good instructions were given. We lodged in the house of Bro. Thos. Barrett.

2nd Bro. Reynolds left for Liverpool at 8 A.M. I and Bro. Fairbanks tarried till 3 P.M. and then went 12 miles to "Llanelli". Visited the Saints from house to house. Visited one Thomas Roach and family who was in the decline. He promised to gather with the Saints in 1872, but he died shortly after our visit. Returned to Swansea and arrived there at 11:45 P.M.

3rd Visited the town and the docks, rode 9 miles to Neath, Fairbanks and myself preached in the evening.

4th Left Heath at 8 A.M. arrive at Merthyr in one hour and spent the day writing in the Conference House.

5th Sunday. Went to Aberdare, preached there 3 times, several of the branches met with us, also the choir from Merthyr. Had an excellent day in the service of the Lord. Returned to Merthyr by rail at 8:15 P.M.

6th Bishop Fairbanks left for Bristol after being with me 10 days. Received news from home. Received one from Bro. Elias Morris Salt Lake containing cheering news.

7th Wrote on the conference books during the day.

8th Engaged with the conference clerk in Financial Afe.

9th Visited "Talybont" in Breconshire. I walked many miles over mountains to visit a sick boy by request by the name of John Price aged 16 years, found him near nigh to death. Administered to him, and afterwards I ordained him an Elder, he died in a few weeks after. Walked back to "Talybont" through a delightful seenery. Saw the valley of "Ush" saw the "Beacons" Group, being the highest mountains in Wales. Returned to Merthyr by rail and preached to the Saints at 8 P.M. I labored hard this day.

10th I wrote all day in the office.

11th In the Conference house.

12th Sunday. Went 30 miles to Swansea, preached 3 times during the day. Lodged with Bro. Thos. Barrett.

13th At 7:45 A.M. Left for my mother's house 80 miles distance. Arrived in the evening and found her well. Spent the evening with her and John Reed.

14th Spent the day with Mother.

15th With my mother in visiting her friends and neighbors.

16th With my mother in visiting her friends and neighbors.

17th Left my mother's house, she accompanied me so far as "Ffynone", she wept bitterly when we parted. This is the last time I saw her on my mission and in life. I proceeded to "Cross Inn" in company with Thos. Vaughan a husband to my cousin, Mary John. Went 100 miles to Merthyr, arrived

18th there at 4 P.M. Met Bro. John Roberts, went to a dentist and had a tooth extracted. Spent the evening in the office.

19th Sunday. Preached at 2 P.M. remained in the Office, in the evening suffered from toothache.

20th Working in the Office.

21st Spent the day in the office, went at 7 P.M. to "Graig Farm", spent the evening with Wm. Wride and D. Davis.

22nd Spent the day in the Graig and Park Cottage with my wife's brothers.

23rd Went to Cardiff, Elder John & Lewis arrived from Utah, spent the evening together.

24th Went to Merthyr in the evening after visiting many friends of Bro. Lewis in Cardiff.

25th The morning at Merthyr, went to Rhymney and lodged in the house of Elder Hanes.

26th Sunday. Walked to "Tredegar", preached 3 times during the day.

27th Visited the saints in this District, in the evening went and lodged at "Nantyglo".

28th Visited "Brynmawr", went 12 miles to "Abergavenny" and preached at 8 P.M.

29th Visited the Saints in Pontypool, Abergwain, and Garndiffaith, preached in the latter place at 8 P.M.

30th Went to Newport and spent the day with the saints. Bro. Lewis went to Bristol.

31st Went to Cardiff, visited the saints from house to house, went to Merthyr in the evening.

June 1872

1st Spent the day in the office, Bro. J. A. Lewis returned from Bristol.

2nd Sunday. Held a District meeting at Merthyr, preached 3 times this day.

3rd In the office making out my

4th monthly reports, mailed them to the Liverpool Office. Went to Neath 22 ½ miles and preached to the Saints at 8 P.M. Lodged in a "Public Inn".

5th Went to Llanelli, Carmarthenshire. Walked from there to "Waun Baglam" through a heavy rain. Visited the family of Henry Williams and gave them some instructions in relation to immigrate this present month. Returned to Llanelli and lodged with Elder John Williams, after having performed a hard days work.

6th Visited some saints between Llanelli and Swansea, preached in the latter place in the evening.

7th Rode to "Alltwin" by rail, from thence to Birchgrove, thence to Neath Abby and thence to Merthyr by rail in the evening. I bid adieu to many of the Saints this day.

8th Spent the day in the Office transferring the Conference Books to Bro. John A. Lewis my successor.

9th Sunday. Went to Cardiff, preached twice. Left at 4 P.M. traveled 22 miles to Aberdare, thence to "Aberaman", preached to them at 6 P.M. I here met with my cousins James and Wm. Williams, spent a short time together. I returned to Merthyr at a late hour.

10th At Merthyr engaged in Emmigration business. I was up nearly all night getting ready to leave.

11th Went to Liverpool accompanied by many saints in different stations on the road. Arrived in Liverpool, spent the afternoon in shipping Saints and luggage on the "Manhaton Steamor". Returned at dusk to the Church Office and was busily engaged 'till 2 A.M. on paying fares of passengers.

12th Returned on board the Steamer, passed inspection of the Officers, and set sail at 1:20 P.M. The saints sang hymns 'till we got out of sight of Liverpool, sailed at the rate of 10 miles an hour. At 8 P.M. we called together the emmigrants and got the company organized, Bishop Brinton was appointed Pres. and myself first assistant.

13th This morning sailed at the rate of 10 miles an hour. Arrived at "Queenstown" at 1 P.M. Tarried there 1 hour, received in some passengers and set sail at 2:30 P.M. Had a fine gale in the evening, roughed and pitched at midnight like a cask on sea. (I mean the steamer).

14th Had a rough day, passengers nearly all sick. The ship makes 11 knots an hour day and night.

15th Passengers nearly all sick, sea rough, head wind, sailed at the rate of 10 knots an hour

16th Sunday. Fine morning, all passengers on deck, sea sickness decreasing. Average sailing 7 ½ miles an hour in the day and 9 miles during the night. We encountered a storm at night, every article in the ship kept moving. We held meetings at 2 and 6 P.M. Elders J. Brinton, John Piper, Shonefelt, and D. John addressed the Saints.

17th Encountered a heavy gale all day. Sailed at the rate of 2 miles an hour in the morning and 5 in the afternoon. Many passengers got sick. The storm lasted 48 hours. It was the tail end of a Southern Huricane.

18th Head wind 'till 7 P.M., it then became fair and fine sailing at the rate of 9 miles an hour.

19th Fine morning, fair wind, rained all day, sailed at the rate of 10 miles an hour.

20th Fine morning, rained in the afternoon, sailed at the rate of 10 miles an hour.

21st Fine day, sailed at the rate of 10 ½ miles an hour.

22nd Fine morning, at 9 P.M. got on the "Banks of Newfoundland" remained foggy and rainy 'till 8 P.M. Averaged 11 miles an hour.

23rd Sunday. Fine day. Capt. Price administered the Church of England services to us in the morning. We called the saints together at 2 P.M. and at 8 P.M. Captain Price attended our evening meeting and expressed himself, much pleased with our service.

24th Fine morning. At noon it became extremely fogy and continued so for 22 hours, we again found ourselves on the "Banks of Newfoundland". Sailed slow during this period, owing to the fog surrounding us.

25th During the day the ship cast anchor several times on account of the fog. At 1 P.M. a Pilot came on board to take us in. We had a heavy shower of rain. Landed in the evening after having passed an examination by the "Custom" house officer. Thus we landed safe after 13 days voyage. Not having lost by death, only one having a baby. Lodged our emmigrants in Castle Gardens.

26th Spent the day in New York purchasing provisions for our journey Westward. About 5 P.M. took the Saints cross to "New Jersey". Took train, traveled 8 days and nights and found ourselves in Salt Lake City at 10 P.M. July 4th my wife, my daughter Mary Jane, and my son David met me at the "Depot". Remained in the house of Sister "Jeremy".

July 1872

5th Visited the Presidency of the Church in Salt Lake City and many other friends. Left at 4 P.M. and went to Mill Creek Ward, lodged with Elder John Cook. Spent a happy evening with the family.

6th Arrived in the evening at Provo, embraced my family, was welcomed home after an absence of 14 months and 6 days.

* Dec. 31st 1880 From July 6th 1872 till Jan 1/1881 being a period of nine years and seven months I did not keep a daily record but will here give a brief synopsis of history of any business and labors during that time. Soon after my return from my mission I was engaged to clerk in the Provo Cooperative Institution and remained there until Oct. 1877 being a period of five years and three months. In a few days after I opened a lumber & coal yard in company with Mr. A. O. Smoot. The firm was known as Smoot, John & Co. I superintended the firm to the beginning of May 1878 being a period of seven months. On the night of March 28, 1878 some wicked person put fire to our lumber yard and destroyed nearly all the property we had there being about $4000 worth. Bro. Wm. Paxman having lately returned from an European mission and having had the charge of the lumber yard before he left on his mission, I resigned my charge in his favor and he was appointed to succeed me. Shortly after we reorganized the company and received additional stock holders and organized the new firm Provo Lumber Manufacturing & Building Company.

On the of May 1878, I accepted the charge of the Salesrooms in the Provo Mnfg. Co. which place I have occupied for two yrs. and eight months bringing the time to Jan 1st 1881. (I was there 5 years today) During the most part of the 8 ½ years past mentioned, I labored in the ministry in company with Pres. A. O. Smoot, nearly his constant companion. On the Sabbath and week days during that time.

On the (Sep. 1874) I was appointed President of the High Priest Quoram in Utah Stake. I was set apart to this office under the hands of Prest. A. O. Smoot, Elders Moses Jones and ______ were appointed my councilors, which position I held till Monday June 4, 1877 at which time a conference was held at Provo which was presided by Pres. Brigham Young, his councilors & most part of the Twelve being present. They reorganized the Utah Stake. A. O. Smoot was appointed and set apart for Pres. of the Stake under the hands of Elder John W. Young, then first councilor to his father, I was ordained and set apart to be second President ( commonly called councilor) under the hands of Pres. John Taylor (then Pres. of the Twelve Apostles). Harvey H. Cluff was set apart as second president, under the hands of Elder Erastus Snow. Elder Isaac Bullock was appointed to succeed me in the presidency of the High Priest Quorum of the Stake. We travelled through the Stake in company with Elders John Taylor & Erastus Snow, holding meetings in all the settlements, ordaining Bishops & Councilors and organizing the Lesser Priesthood. We labored in the ministry faithfully and unitedly to the present time, being a period of three years. Elder H. H. Cluff left upon a mission to the Sandwich Islands on the 1st day of June 1879 & has not returned to this date. I have not written daily journal for the last 8 ½ yrs. but we labored dilligently [sic] in the ministry during that time. In the spring of 1873, I began building a house for myself in the first ward Provo City and finished it in Jan. 1876 and moved my family into it that month. The land, house, barn, & fence cost me the sum of $12,165.21 without being furnished. In the latter end of July 1878, I received the sad news that my mother departed this life on the first day of July 1878, in the 77th yr. Of her age. She died in the county of Pembroke (in the parish of Little new Castle, South Wales, within one mile from the place of her birth and was buried by the side of my father in Beulah church yard, my father was buried there on 3rd of April, 1856 (63 yrs of age) and my brother Thomas John was buried there on the 9th of June 1859 (buried on the 11th) (died on the 9th aged 23 yrs 6 months & 14 days & 6 hours. On their tomb stones are inscribed the following:

In Memory of
Daniel John who died March 31, 1856 age 63 years and also his son
Thomas John who died 9th June 1859, 23 years of age.

On the tomb stone is the following verse in the Welsh language, selection by myself.

"Mewn galae ming na iogluin
Wedi gofishan adgyfadion
Byr yn gofin llid z llaur
Megis aur ymgyfodion.
Derfydd wylo, cown im puro
Goir Jainl iddo Jorfoliddm."

Their my mother lived a widow 22 years and 3 months to the day. In the same grave yard as my parents was buried his father, Thomas John, was buried, also John John, a brother to my father who died unmarried.; in the same burying ground many of my relations have been buried, but the rest of my father's children were buried 1 ½ miles east of the this place in a grave-yard of the Church of England in the village of Punchaston, where also are laid the remains of my mothers relations, both on her fathers and mothers side. My grandfather David Williams & my grandmother Mary Williams, his wife, were buried there. My grandfather Williams, died, as near as I can find out about the year 1817, when my mother was twelve years of age, and my grandmother died about the year 1845 (when I was twelve years of age), there my grandmother lived a widow 28 years and raised a large family of children, her husband having died in the prime of his life. I was 45 years of age when my mother died and 23 years of age & 3 months when my father died.

Much more might be written concerning the dead, had I dates of births and deaths, many of which I have which will be written in this book at a future time. This shall suffice for the present & shall now proceed on my journal on the first day of Jan. 1881. During the year of 1881 I was engaged as a Salesman in the Provo Mnfg. Co. on working days, only when public meetings called me away, hence I will confine my journal chiefly to the work of the Ministry on Sabbath days.

Sunday Jan. 1st 1881, I had all of my family together and spent a happy day together.

Monday Jan 2 I attended a prayer circle at Provo at 9 A.M. attended meeting at 10:30 A.M. I visited the 3rd Ward Sunday School at 2 P.M. I addressed the School and preached in the same ward at 6:30 P.M. Elders K. G. Maeser and James Talmage also addressed the assembly.

Jan 3rd /1881 My daughter Mary Jane John went to Cedar Fork, Utah Co. (being 18 years of age) she was a Normal student in the Brigham Young Academy and was appointed by proffessor [sic] K. G. Maeser to teach in Cedar Fork for ½ term, which labor she performed sattisfactorily [sic].

Saturday Jan. 8/1881

A Stake Priesthood meetings were held in Provo, we had 3 sessions, the main hall of the building was full, it was one of the coldest days of the season, much good instructions were given, and 24 Elders were set apart for Stake Missionaries under the hands of the Stake Presidency. (A. O. Smoot, D. John, and H. H. Cluff)

Sunday Jan. 9 1881 Went to Spanish Fork in company of Elder G. G. Jones, we preached to a crowded house at 10:30 A.M. At 1:30 P.M. met the Bishopric of the place and the Superintancy [sic] of the Sunday School, and endeavored to settle a difficulty existing between them, but failed. As Supt. of Sunday School in the Stake I referred the matter of settlement to the lesser priesthood of the Ward, which however resulted in Thos. Martle the Supt. of the Sunday School to resign his position. Returned to Provo at 4 P.M. by rail.

Tuesday January 11/1881

At Provo, attended a Bishop meeting in the evening. Bishops Wm. Paxman, J. P. R. Johnson, J. W. Louchin, Myron Tanner, and myself addressed the meeting.

Sunday Jan 16, 1881

Attended a Prayer Circle at Provo at 9 A.M. At 10:30 A.M., Elders Horace A. Eldridge, John Van Coot & Wm. Taylor of the Presidency of the Seventies, met with us, also Robert Campbell their Secretary, and organized the Seventies in a Stake capacity. They appointed Elder K.G. Maeser, President of the Seventies in the Stake, with Elders Lars P. Nelson of Provo, I. M.. Coonts of Payson, and Warren Smith of American Fork as his assistants. This organization did not interfere with the original quorums of Seventies, but this movement was for the purpose of benefitting the scattered Seventies in all the settlements and give them the privilege of meeting together and holding meetings, the same organization has been affected in all the Stakes of Zion in 1881.

Friday Jan 21 1881

At Provo, received a telegram from Apostle F. M. Lyman, desiring me to accompany him and Elder John H. Smith to Nephi the next day, to attend a two days Quarterly Conference. Those two Elders were appointed to the Quorum of the Twelve in the Oct. Conference 1880.

Saturday Jan 22 1881

Started from Provo to Nephi by rail in company with the Brethren mentioned and arrived there at 12 noon a distance of 40 miles. At 2 P.M. Brother John H. Smith and myself addressed the Conference, and at 6:30 P.M. Bro. Lyman and Smith spoke. The meeting house was crowded and good attention given. Brother Geo. Teasdale, the Pres. of the Juab Stake sick and unable to attend conference. Bro. F. M. Lyman and myself lodged in the house of Elder Dn. Udall.

Sunday Jan 23 1881

At Nephi Conference met with the Sunday School in the morning, Brother Lyman and myself addressed the School. Held meetings at 2 P.M.& at 6:30 P.M. The subjects were Tithing, Word of Wisdom, The Lord, Sacrament, and the nature and character of the Priesthood. We dined with Pres. Brown Took supper with Bishop Andrews. We had a good time together and spent a profitable day.

Monday Jan 24 1881

Visited a grist mill one mile from town. Administered to Bro. Geo. Teasdale who was getting better. Had a long conversation in relations to young persons who commit themselves before marriage, the council was that such parties should make public acknowledgment for the first offense and if they should obtain forgiveness of the Saints, they then should be re-baptized and should they refuse to comply, they should be cut off from the church.

Left Nephi at 2 P.M. and arrived at Provo at 3:40 P.M. At 4 P.M. met at the Meeting House with the Bishops of Provo & some missionaries who were called for St. John, Arizona, instructions were given them in relation to their mission. At 7 P.M. F. M. Lyman and myself attended the B. Young Academy listening to a class exercise by Prof. Hamill on Elocution. Bro. Lyman & son stayed at my house over night, we sat down until 1 o'clock, midnight.

Tuesday Jan. 25, 1881

Spent the morning with Elders Lyman & John Henry Smith, they dined with me and left for S.L. City in the afternoon. I signed several recommendations to the Endowment House (Prest. Smoot being absent to the Eastern States.

Saturday Jan. 29, 1881

Left Provo at 4 P.M. for Lehi. A. O. Smoot returned home this date after being absent two months. At 6:40 P.M. I was 48 yrs of age, lodged in the house of Bishop Cutler.

Sunday Jan. 30/1881

Bro. John H. Smith arrived at 10 A.M. He and I preached to a full house. We held a meeting at American Fork at 2 P.M. & another at Pleasant Grove at 6 P.M.

Monday Jan. 31st 1881

Returned to Provo and at 6:30 P.M. attended meeting at Tithing Office of the board of Directors of the Provo Cooperative Institution and declared a dividend of 11 1/10 percent of the West branch for the preceeding [sic] six months. After meeting spent an hour with Pres. Smoot in his office.

Tuesday Feb. 5/1881 At Provo attended a Priesthood meeting at 7 P.M. (of Provo City).

Saturday Feb. 5/1881 Attended a monthly Priesthood meeting at Provo (of the Utah Stake).

Sunday Feb. 6/1881 At Provo Pres. Smoot preached in the morning and he & I in the second ward at 7 P.M.

Sunday Feb. 13/1881 I preached at Provo meeting house at 10:30 A.M. on the succession of the Priesthood from the days of Adam to our day, showing that the Melchisidek [sic] Priesthood was not from father to son as was the Aronic [sic] Priesthood but it was the gift of God to man according to merits without regard to father or mother or descent and thus it varied from the Lesser Priesthood in the tribe of Levi which was inherited by descent. At 7 P.M. I preached in the 4th Ward Provo.

Wednesday Feb. 16,1881 In the evening I laid hands on Elder Shepard Glazier who was quite sick and in his 87th year of age, who died a few days afterwards.

Sunday Feb. 20, 1881

Pres. A. O. Smoot and myself visited the Sunday School at Springville, at 10 A.M. we addressed the School, we again preached to people at 1 p.m. on the "Salvation of the dead", we had an interesting time and returned to Provo in the evening. Spent the evening with my family.

Thursday Feb. 24, 1881

Pres. A. O. Smoot and myself preached in the funeral of Elder Shepard Glazier at 2 P.M.. He had been in the Church many years, was a good faithful High Priest and died at the ripe age of 87 years.

Friday Feb. 25, 1881

This day was held the Quarterly Conference of the Female Relief Society of the Stake, I addressed them at 2 P.M. in Provo Meeting house on the general duties of the Sisters at home as well as in the Church.

From 1872 to 1881 Saturday February 26, 1881

Our Stake Conference was held at Provo, 3 meetings were held during the day. Pres. Jos. F. Smith occupied the morning, subjects, Book of Mormon and the manner in which it was discovered, obtained, and translated. Said the Plates were 8 inches long, 6 in. wide, and 4 in. thick. The weight was 60 #'s. They were fastened together with 2 rings which were shaped like the letter D, so when the leaves were closed they would close square. He said the Urim & Thummim resembled a pair of spectacles with two transparent stones. Joseph Smith looked through them and the Lord caused the language to appear upon them and he pronounced the words while Oliver Cowdry [sic] wrote them down. When one sentence was written it would disappear, giving place to another sentence which was imparted on paper in like manner, so they proceeded word by word. When anything wrong occured [sic] during the work of translating the words on the stone would remain stationary, they would then go back and find a word previous that had been omitted, as soon as the error was detected and the correction inserted translation proceeded. Pres. John Taylor & others spoke in the evening.

Sunday feb. 27/1881

Conference opened at 10 A.M. Pres. Taylor occupied 1 ½ hours in the morning, subjects being the Priesthood, its restoration by Peter, James, & John, The mission of Elijah restoring the keys for the salvation of the dead. At 2 P.M. Elder J. F. Smith spoke on the departure of Lehi from Jerusalem, the settling of America, their growth and decay, Columbus discovering the land and the Gospel restored to Joseph Smith by an holy angel. Conference closed at 4 P.M. I spent the evening at home in company of Bishop Wm. Price of Goshen & Elder Barry Wride of Payson.

Saturday March 5/1881 Attended a monthly Priesthood meeting of the Stake at Provo City.

Sunday March 6/1881 Spent the day at Provo. Pres. Smoot preached in the morning. I spent the evening with him at his office attending to Stake duties.

Sunday March 13/1881 Attended prayer circle at nine A.M. At 10:30 A.M. Bishop J. P. R. Johnson & myself preached to the congregation. At 2 P.M. visited an exhibition of the Sunday School in the 3rd ward Provo & addressed the school, spent the evening at home.

Tuesday March 15/1881 Spent evening in Provo Tithing Office in company with Pres. Smoot, Wm. Paxman, & Albert Jones till 10:30 P.M. on business pertaining to the year of Jubilee of the Church such as the remitting of Tithing indebtedness and Emmigration [sic] indebtedness, and donations to the poor, etc.

Sunday March 20, 1881

Attended 3 meetings during the day, at 7:30 P.M. I preached at the meeting house.

Sunday March 27, 1881

Pres. Jos. F. Smith preached at Provo at 10:30 A.M., he visited the 1st Ward Sunday School at 2 P.M., he addressed the School. I went with him to the R.R. depot, he left for Salt Lake. I spent the evening at home reading.

Friday April 1st 1881

In reference to a telegram received from Pres. J. Taylor, Pres. Smoot and myself left Provo for Salt Lake at 4 P.M. to attend a meeting of the Presidency of the Church, The Twelve Apostles, and the Presidencies of the Stakes on the following day. In company with Brother P. Stubbs lodged in the Continental Hotel.

Saturday April 2, 1881

Attended 2 meetings at the Council House, Salt Lake City, with those above mentioned, the leading subject being Tithing and the building of the temple.

Sunday April 3, 1881

Attended 2 meetings at Salt Lake City, when the Saints were addressed by the Twelve Apostles.

Monday April 4, 1881 I returned to Provo.

Wednesday April 6/1881 Went to S. L. City to attend the annual conference of the church, attended two meetings.

Thursday April 7/1881 Attended meetings at 10 A.M. & two P.M. & at 7 P.M. attended a Sunday School union meeting. I represented the Sunday Schools in Utah Stake as being in a flourished condition.

Friday Apr. 8/1881 Attended conference in the morning and returned to Provo at 4 P.M.

Sunday April 10/1881 Attended two meetings at Provo. Elder A. O. Smoot preached in the morning, I spent the afternoon in the 3rd ward.

Sunday Apr. 17/1881 At Provo attended a prayer circle at 9 A.M. & a preaching meeting at 10 A.M. At 2 P.M. attended a funeral service of Hannah Dunn. Elders Isaac Bullock, J. P. R. Johnson & myself addressed the assembly. Being a sabbath [sic] day and weather fine a great assembly gathered together.

Saturday Apr. 23/1881 Pres. Smoot & myself went by rail to Am. Fork & rode from there in a team six miles to Alpine in company of Bishop T. J. McCullough, held a meeting at 7 P.M. Bro. Smoot and myself preached to the audience. We lodged over night at the Bishop's.

Sunday Apr. 24/1881 Elders S. S. Jones & Reed Smoot joined us at 10 A.M. they and Pres. A. O. Smoot preached in the morning. At 2 P.M. Bishop L. G. Harrington, Wm. Paxman, & myself preached. We rode home to Provo in a carriage in the evening, the distance of 21 miles, reached home at 7 p.m. My daughters Mary Jane & Martha Ann had just returned from Payson where they had been attending a funeral of Joseph Edward Tanner one of their school mates in the B. Young Academy. He died of Typhoid fever, aged 19 years, Two daughters of Bro. Elias Morris spent the evening with the family.

Sunday May 1st 1881 Attended a prayer circle at Provo at 9 A.M. Elders David Holdiway & Wm. Sperry were received members of our circle. Elders Edward Harding & A. O. Smoot preached at 10:30 A.M. At 7 P.M. Pres. Smoot & myself preached in the second ward meeting house. Our subject was obedience & disobedience & their results on individuals, cities, & nations, in different dispensations.

Tuesday May 3, 1881 Attended a Priesthood meeting at Provo at 7:30 P.M. (Of Provo City)

Saturday May 7, 1881

Attended a monthly meeting of the Utah Stake at 10 A.M. had a profitable time.

Sunday May 8, 1881

Attended a prayer circle at 9 A.M. and at 10:30 A.M. I preached on the difference of the missions and ministry of Elijah and Elias. Spent the afternoon with Pres. A. O. Smoot on Church business in the Stake. At 7 P.M. we both preached in the basement of the Meeting House (Provo).

Sunday May 15, 1881

Pres. Smoot and myself left Prove at 8 A.M. and arrived at Pleasant Grove at 9:30 A.M. and at 10 A.M. we preached to the Saints. Attended Sunday School at 2 P.M. and both of us addressed the School. After School we administered to sister Frampton who was quite sick, aged 76 years who died about 2 weeks afterwards. Returned to Provo, reached home at 6:30 P.M., found my daughter Elizabeth sick and administered to her the ordinance of the laying on of hands.

Monday May 16, 1881

After returning home in the evening (from my work) found my daughter Elizabeth quite sick, administered to her at 6:30 P.M. from which time she commenced to recover.

Sunday May 22, 1881

Pres. Smoot and myself went to American Fork, we preached there twice and also addressed the Sunday School at 2 P.M. Stayed there over night.

Monday May 23, 1881

Returned to Provo by the Railroad.

Saturday May 28, 1881

A Stake Quarterly Conference was held at Provo, 3 meetings were held, chiefly occupied by the Twelve Apostles.

Sunday May 29 1881

Held 3 meetings during the day, had a large attendance at Conference.

Saturday June 4, 1881

Attended a monthly meeting of the Stake at Provo.

Sunday June 5, 1881

Attended 3 meetings and a Sunday School at Provo.

Saturday June 11, 1881

Bro. Smoot and myself went by rail to Lehi and rode in a wagon from there to Cedar Fort, lodged in the home of Bishop John F. Cook.

Sunday June 12, 1881

Bro. Smoot and myself preached at Cedar Fort at 10 A.M. and at Fairfield at 6 P.M. The saints seemed to appreciate our visit. I administered to a sick sister Cook after the evening services, who seemed to be troubled with evil spirits, she was partly demented.

Monday June 13, 1881

Rode in a carriage from Fairfield and thence home to Provo by Rail.

Sunday June 19, 1881

Attended 3 meetings at Provo.

Sunday June 26, 1881

Attended 3 meetings at Provo.

Saturday July 2, 1881

Attended a monthly Stake Priesthood meeting at Provo.

Sunday July 3, 1881

Pres. Smoot and myself preached to the Saints in Provo, attended 3 meetings during the day.

Sunday July 10, 1881

Attended 3 meetings at Provo.

Sunday July 17, 1881

Attended 3 meetings at Provo.

Sunday July 24, 1881

Pres. Smoot and myself went to Springville, attended Sunday School at 10:30 A.M. and preached to the Saints at 2 P.M. Returned to Provo in the evening. We did not celebrate the fourth and 24th July owing to the President of the United States, James A. Garfield, having been shot by an assassin on July 2nd 1881, who died from his injuries 3 months later.

Saturday Aug. 6, 1881

Held a Stake Priesthood meeting at Provo.

Sunday Aug. 7, 1881

Attended 3 meetings at Provo.

Saturday Aug. 20, 1881

Went to Lehi in company with Pres. Smoot, met with the Elders at 7 P.M. in the Meeting House and organized a prayer circle, Bishop Thomas R. Cutler was appointed Pres., Bro. Smoot and myself joined them in prayer.

Sunday Aug. 21, 1881 We preached at Lehi at 10 A.M. and at American Fork at 6 P.M. Lodged at the Bishop's house.

Monday Aug. 22, 1881

Went by rail to Provo.

Wednesday Aug. 24, 1881

Went in answer to a telegram, to meet Pres. J. Taylor and party to Lehi, met him and some of the Twelve there. Pres. J. Taylor and W. Woodruff addressed the Saints. After meeting went to Alpine, a distance of 6 miles. Bro. Geo. Q. Cannon and myself lodged in the house of Elder John Strong.

Thursday Aug. 25, 1881
Bros. Cannon, Strong, and myself visited the grave yard at early morning, situated on a lofty hill, rising suddenly from the valley below overlooking the settlement. Held a meeting there at 10 A.M. Prests. John Taylor and Geo. Q. Cannon addressed the assembly. Went to American Fork and held a meeting there at 4 P.M. Pres. Taylor and Woodruff addressed the assembly. Bro. Smoot joined the company in this place. Bro. Smoot and myself lodged at the house of Bro. Paxman.

Friday Aug. 26, 1881
Went to Pleasant Grove, held a meeting at 10 A.M. Pres. Taylor and Cannon addressed the audience. At 4 P.M. left by rail for Provo.

Saturday Aug. 27, 1881 Held the Stake Conference at Provo, had 3 meetings during the day. Pres. Taylor and the Twelve occupied the time.

Sunday Aug 28, 1881 Our conference continued during the day. Elder Jos. F. Smith joined the company and spoke during the day, as well as Pres. Taylor and the Twelve. Our conference adjourned at 4 P.M. The brethren visited the southern settlements in the Stake, I was unable to accompany them.

Saturday Sep. 3, 1881
Attended a monthly meeting of the Priesthood at 10 A.M. at Provo, in the afternoon went to Payson, I stayed over night in the house of Bro. Barry Wride.

Sunday Sep. 4, 1881
In company with Bro. Smoot attended a prayer circle at 9 A.M., both of us preached to the Saints at 10 A.M., addressed the Sunday School at 2 P.M. Preached again at 6 P.M. to an attentive audience.

Sunday Sep. 11, 1881
Attended 3 meetings at Spanish Fork including the Sunday School, returned to Provo in the evening.

Sunday Sep. 18, 1881
I was at home at Provo, attending the usual meetings, Bro. Smoot was at Goshen.

Sunday Sep. 25, 1881
In company with Pres. Smoot, went to Springville, preached there twice and returned to Provo in the evening.

Sunday Oct. 2, 1881
Went to Pleasant Grove, preached twice, and returned to Provo in the evening.

Thursday Oct. 6, 1881
Went from Provo to Salt Lake to attend a general conference of the Church and also attended the funeral of Elder Orson Pratt. The conference commenced at 11 A.M. meeting dismissed at 11. For two hours his body lay in state while the large congregation had the chance of seeing his face for the last time on earth. He seemed to enjoy his sweet after a long and faithful ministry for fifty years. He was the last of the original apostles chosen in the year 1835. I never saw a dead body that appeared more pleasant. The funeral services commenced at 1 P.M. Pres. John Taylor, W. Woodruff, and several of the twelve apostles addressed the congregation. His body was interned in the Salt Lake Cemetery. At 8 P.M. my wife Mary and my son Thomas attended the theatre. We lodged that night at the Continental Hotel.

Friday Oct. 7, 1881
Attended Conference at 10 A.M., at 2 P.M. left by rail for Provo.

Sunday Oct. 9, 1881

At 7 A.M. left Provo by rail, arrived at Salt Lake at 9:30 A.M. Attended Conference at 10 A.M. and 2 P.M. when several of the twelve addressed the congregation. At 6 P.M. attended a meeting of the Deseret Union Sunday School. The meeting was addressed by Supt. G. Q. Cannon and Elder Moses Thatcher who on this day arrived home from a mission which he had filled in Mexico.

Monday Oct. 10, 1881
Left Salt Lake by rail at 2 P.M. and arrived in Provo in the evening.

Sunday Oct. 16, 1881
Attended meetings at Provo at 9 A.M. 10:30 A.M. I preached in the Second Ward at 7 P.M.

Sunday Oct. 23, 1881
Attended two meetings in Provo.

Sunday Oct. 30, 1881
Attended three services at Provo.

Saturday Nov. 5, 1881
Attended a monthly meeting of the Priesthood of the Stake at Provo.

Sunday Nov. 6, 1881
Attended services at Provo, I preached at 10:30 A.M.

Sunday Nov. 13, 1881
Attended three services at Provo.

Thursday Nov. 17, 1881

I was at Provo, about 3 A.M. I was called from bed to administer to Charles H. Smith one of the High Councilors of the Stake. Just before I was awaken [sic] I had the following dream. I was in company with Elders Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, Geo. A. Smith (who were dead) and also in company with Elders John Taylor and W. Woodruff. Bro. Woodruff got on his feet and said we shall commence this meeting by singing one of the songs of Zion and he sang alone being the most melodious music I have ever heard. Just opposite me sat Geo. A. Smith, by his left hand sat Heber C. Kimball, on my right hand sat Brigham Young. After Bro. Woodruff got done singing, he sat on my left, whereupon Elder Geo. A. Smith looked in my eyes with astonishing steadfastness which must have meant something very particular, but uttered not a word. By this time Pres. Young leaned over towards me and whispered in my right ear, "we want you to stand and stick by this thing until it is over". I asked what thing? and before he had time to answer a hard knock at the door awoke me. It was Giles Holden, who said "Charles H. Smith is very low with the pneumonia and desires to see you as soon as possible". I went to the house through a heavy storm of snow and found him very low. I found his brother John H. Smith with him and his father-in-law Jessie Martin with him. We administered to him several times. I went home at 7 A.M.

Friday Nov. 18, 1881 Spent the entire night with C.H. Smith. He spent a restless night. He wished to die several times during the night. Bro. Martin and myself administered to him many times, about 4 A.M. we discovered that the fever was subdued & a hope for his life could be looked for. At 6 A.M. Nov. 19, I awoke J. H. Smith and informed him that I believed that the worst was over with Charles. He went by rail to S. L. City at 7 A.M. I returned at 4 P.M.

Sunday Nov. 20, 1881 Attended meetings at Provo at 9 A.M. & 10:30 A.M. On special invitation I preached a funeral sermon in the 2nd Ward. Preached at 2 P.M. over the remains of a young elder aged 23 yrs. named George Perry Jr. The spirit of the Lord rested in an extraordinary manner on both speakers & hearers. In the evening I administered again on C. H. Smith in company with his brother John H. Smith, whom I found to be gaining slowly.

Sunday Nov. 27, 1881 Attended the usual meetings at Provo.

Wednesday Nov. 30, 1881 At 1 P.M. attended the funeral of Bro. Geo. Beebe aged about 70 yrs. Elders John Riggs, Z. Coltrin, A. O. Smoot, & myself preached at the funeral. He was an old church member, he was in Missouri during the persecution of the Saints, was there mobbed & whipped, the scars of which were taken with him to the grave, but for the last 25 yrs. has been very inactive in his faith & religion, the most part of which he spent in Iowa.

Saturday and Sunday Dec. 3 & 4th A Stake Quarterly Conference held in Provo. Presidents John Taylor, Joseph F. Smith, F. M. Lyman, John H. Smith, Chas. Penrose, & others addressed the conference. The evening of the 4th I spent with Pres. Taylor's party in company with my wife, Mary, in the house of A. O. Smoot.

Sunday Dec. 14, 1881 Attended the usual services at Provo. Elder A. O. Smoot preached at 10:30 A.M.

Saturday Dec. 17/1881 Attended the funeral of Sister Martha Jane Coray at 10 A.M. Her body was taken to the Meeting House. Elders A. O. Smoot, J. F. Smith, W. Woodruff, & Captain Wm. Hooper were the speakers.

Thursday Dec. 22nd 1881 Attended a lecture at the Provo Meeting House at 8 P.M. given by Prof. O. S. Fowler of New York on Phrenology. He gave an interesting lecture at the end of which by the request of the assembly he examined my head and gave a delineation thereof as follows.

Dec. 23rd 1881 We had a gathering of friends at my house in the evening to celebrate the birthday of my wife Mary, she being 50 yrs old at this date.

Fowler's delineation

This is quite a large head, it measures 23 inches. His reason is very great. Memory good. Very firm in character. Men who started in life with him will have to work very hard to keep up with him. If he lives long enough he will become a rich man, for he will work incessantly. If he has a house at all it must have been well built. His grounds well laid off & his house well furnished & supplied with real comforts, but not extravagant, will have a good durable clothing, but not frills & extravagance. People will wonder if his house & land are not mortgaged but they will not be for he is too cautious. He will see his way out before he commences. He will lay awake at night to scheem [sic] his plans & will be up at early dawn to execute them. He will work, work, and never rest, he works altogether to hard & must stop or else it will hurt him. His head is hot now, his brains are to active. I do not think I laid my hands on anyone with reverence to duty any higher. I have found some among the Quaker equal but nowhere else. If he believed it was his duty before the Lord to take 2 or 6 wives he would take them, if he would see all the prison doors open to receive him, it would make no difference to him. He is a man to buy stock, farms, & lands, would be a good hand to make out deeds, documents, & wills. I would recommend him to any business establishment as an industrious & honest man. He will feather his nest but will do it honestly. He need not fear his wife or wives to marry other husbands, for he will outlive them wether they are old or young. I think his forefathers to a great age & he can be quite sociable when with friends & should cultivate friendships with strangers. He wishes to be thought plenty of. He is very fond of home & children of the opposite sex. He has a wise uncontrollable when he believes he's right. If he is not a preacher he can be made a good one. If he has been in this town long he must be one of your leading men. He is a man that if he will he will and if he won't he won't. In this gentlemen's head I find something besides the English, German, or Scotch, but has a well-balanced head. His benevolence is high, cautiousness great, & compassion strong. His ancestors must have lived from 90 to 100 yrs old. He asked if this was not so & he was answered in the affirmative. He can also live to the same age if he will take more rest & care for himself.

Saturday Dec. 24th 1881 Attended a lecture given again by him at the Court House, which was quite instructing.

Sunday Dec. 25, 1881 Attended the usual meetings at Provo. I preached at 10:30 A.M. to an attentive audience, Prof. O. S. Fowler being present. At 2 P.M. all our Sunday Schools convened in the Meeting House. Prof. Fowler & Prof. K. G. Maeser addressed the schools & also Elder A. O. Smoot in an instructive manner. I visited the 3rd Ward in company with my wife in the evening.

Friday Dec. 30, 1881 The High Council of Utah Stake met at the Court House, Provo City, to listen at a matter of difficulty existing between Crandall brothers of Springville & Joel Grover of Nephi in relation to railroad contracts on the Rio Grande railroad in Arizona & New Mexico. The plaintiff being Grover and the defendants Crandall brothers. We held three sessions during the day, the last closed 9:30 P.M. & we then adjourned to meet on same case on Jan. 3, 1883.

Saturday Dec. 31, 1881 Spent the day at the Sales room Woolen Factory where also I spent all the week days in this year excepting when called away on Church business. Before commencing on my journal of 1882 I will write a few remarkable dreams believing that good dreams are the gifts of God.

When I was 8 yrs of age, I saw God the Father and the Son in a dream. I saw them in my fathers house. I saw them sitting in one room when I was in another. They called me to them & asked if I knew them. I replied in the affirmative . They appeared exactly alike in countenance. The Father appeared the heavier in body; the Father addressed the Son saying "David has not forgotten us". The Father raised me on his knee, kissed me & blessed me & told me to be a good boy & do right. Said he "handle me & feel my flesh & bones" for you will be taught that I have no body, hereafter you will know that I have a tangible body for you have felt & seen me & this you must not forget when you grow up. He said "Thou art my boy & I will bless thee & take care of thee & thou must yet do a work on the earth. He then lifted me down & the Son took me by his right hand & placed me to stand by his right side & said "David I bless thee" with power to do good. I know thee & have known thee & shall know thee hereafter. I will be with thee in time to come. Feel & handle me for I also have a body like that of my Fathers, now thou must know that I am a substantial being for thou hast seen me & felt me, this thou must not forget, let no man take this mind from thee, for thou must yet do a work in my name & I will be with thee. I awoke & found myself in bed in my father's house. This took place 7 years before I saw any of the Elders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints being in the year 1841. I do not know the month. I believed the dream to be inspired then & I do now in the 49 yrs of my age.

A dream caused me to leave a Baptist college on the 6th day of Feb. 1856, nine nights previous to that date an angel spoke to me in a dream nearly all night long. See this journal in the spring of 1856.

I once dreamed that I departed this life & entered the spirit world & witnessed the presence of thousands of spirits. I asked my guide how long should my body lay in the dust & he answered "very much depends on your faithfulness & energy. You have a mission to perform to preach & to administer to the spirit world, as soon as your work will be accomplished, your body & spirit will be re-united. In passing through the vail [sic] I experienced no pain or fear. The objects & sights around me took away all trouble & added to my former knowledge. I possessed more joy than ever before, still I thought much of my body which was left behind & desired to possess it again & I was assured by an angel guide that I would obtain it. All was perfect order all around A calm & quiet spirit pervaded over all, the obtaining of knowledge & understanding was the main object of all. I remarked that they should advance fast in knowledge when no obstruction was in the way.

My guide answered "they make rapid progress". He led me to an appartment [sic] where I saw thousands of children between the ages of 4 & 8 yrs and informed me that the first part of my mission should be to teach them to read and write. He handed me a book which was the clafs [sic] book. I opened and examined it and could not read it and informed him so. He taught me to read the first one half of the first page which made me understand the whole book, and I became a competent teacher. When we entered the department all stood up and a salute, after which they got seated. I was informed that I should tary [sic] with this multitude of youths until they had become competent readers and writers. I replied that "I could not teach such a vast number without an assistant". He said "I will show you how". He taught me an exercise on the black-board by which I could teach sixty-thousand as readily as sixty, which I readily adopted. He led me to the second apartment which appeared to be as numerious [sic] as the first, which were from 8 to 16 years of age. He informed me that my mission to them should be to preach unto them the gospel and teach them the principles of life and salvation. When we entered this apartment [sic] raised to their feet and gave a salute and seated themselves again. I informed my guide that I could preach to them all at the same time but oftenly [sic] I had found it beneficial to have private conversations with individuals in matters of religion and that perhaps a little assistance would be needed. He answered "So have I" you can call others to assist you after awhile. We then entered the third apartment and found them more numerous than in the first two. They consisted of persons from 16 to 60 years of age. When we approached them they also gave a salutation as the others did. I was informed that my mission to them would be to teach them the gospel and to superintend over them and to have the Priesthood confered [sic] upon them and that their endowments should be secured and that I should call all necessary help to accomplish this work. They also made a salute like those before them. I told my guide that if I must accomplish all this work given me before my body would be resurrected I feared it would be a long time. He again answered me "much will depend on your diligence and perseverence , if the work would be attended to early and late, it would be accomplished sooner, but added he "It must be done" that work is yours and you have to perform it". Your salvation cannot be complete without them, for they belong to you and when this mission is finished your body and spirit will be reunited and your joy will be full". I awoke and found myself in Provo City, Utah, in the fall of 1867. Now in regard to this dream, I wish to say it was given by the inspiration of the Lord. I did not see any female person over 8 years of age which proves that I did not see all. I was led to understand that females administered to females. I did not ask for this dream, it was given me freely as I have written.

Another Dream

In the beginning of Nov. 1866 my children Martha Ann and Hannah were taken sick, the latter being 10 weeks old was take [sic] severly [sic] sick on the night of Nov. 5, 1866, about one o'clock at midnight. Sis. Lucy Smith the wife of Geo. A. Smith called me into the room and said she was dying. I administered to her and she became better, she remained sick the balance of the night and the following day, on the night of the fifth about midnight I layed [sic] to rest leaving my wife and Sis. Lucy Smith with the sick child. In a few minutes I fell in a deep sleep and had the following remarkable dream. I heard a knock at the front door. I opened it and there stood before me three angels abreast, the one in the middle appeared to be about six feet high, tall but rather slender. The other two about three inches shorter but heavy set. The one in the middle addressed me saying "The Lord has sent us to visit you and to inform you that he wants your child, Hannah to return to Him, that she came to this earth through a mistake and he desired her to return home, and he has authorized us to promise you that if you will consent to her return that your next two children born unto you will be sons". (At that time I had had four daughters born unto me but no sons.) He also told me "We came here last night about this time to take your daughter but you rebuked us and sent us away". I answered him "I did not see you last night" he answered "No I know that you did not, but you commanded all spirits to depart, we were included and had to go". I told him "If it is the will of the Lord for her to depart I was willing for her to be taken". As soon as I said this I saw a legion of angels seven abreast reaching a distance seemingly as far as the naked eye could see, all dressed in white raiments, I asked "What does all this mean" the same personage answered "We have come to escort your child home". At this time Sis. Lucy Smith awoke me saying "Arise the child is dieing [sic], rebuke the power of death as you did last night", I replied "the Lord wants her, let her go", and she died in a few minutes. According to the promise made by the angel the two next born were Thomas and David. The first born Jan. 1st 1867 and the second Feb. 22, 1867.

 

None

Immigrants:

John, David

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