Jeremy, Thomas Evans 02 - Journal

January 1855

Monday 1st - Attended a Tea party in the evening at our Hall White Lion. Many of the brethren spoke in the party on different subjects which was very amusing. Cards of admittance cost one shilling each, over six hundred cards were sold, which amounted over L30.0.0, expenses to towards the tea party about L15.0.0 which leaves about L15.0.0 profit towards defraying the debt of the conference.
Tuesday 2nd - I remained at Merthyr in order to attend council of the Merthyr district, nothing very particular transpired except as question that brother Mathews asked as follows- "what is to be done to a brother that do not believe in nothing higher than the power of man," he states also that the above named man is a Chartist. I answered and said that such a man doth not belong to us, that he should not be considered a member in the Church unless he would repent, and I said that he would see the day when he would acknowledge that there is a power than the power of man. Wednesday 3rd - Wrote several letters - one for my brother David Jeremy, and another for brother Thos. Harries Heaven's Head, and also a letter enclosed in it for Sister Sarah Jane Lewis Milford, according to the request of my brother David, wishing her to let him know is she can come to his house to help his wife to saw before they leave Wales for America. Came from Merthyr to Cwmbargod. Stayed over night at brother John Jones, house. Sent post office order to brother John D. T. McAllister to Ireland of five shillings as he is suffering for want of food and a bed to lay on. May God bless him and open the hearts of the people to administer to his wants.
Thursday 4th - Stayed last night with brother John Jones Cwmbargod, he and his wife treated me very kindly, brother Jones gave me 2/6 on the mountain, when he came to send me and showed me the way to Rhymneg. Attended a Saints meeting at brother Rees Price house. The saints of the three branches that are in Rhymneg came together, as I was going to the meeting I had a conversation with Miss Pricila Williams, who is a sister to brother Thos. Painter's wife - I got influence with her to get her to promise to be babtized to morrow evening. The bretheren of the several branches gave me about 7/ to help me on my mission. The brethren told me that brother Thomas Rees was robbed and knocked down by some old villain and he stoled 5/3Êfrom his pocket, and also he took his hat from him. This generation is ripening fast to destruction, wars and bloodshed, robbery and all manner of lying together with whoredom and adultery, all these abominations are bringing a speedy vengeance of a just and offencive God upon the hard hearted nations of the Earth. O how few that believes the testimony of the servants of the Great God which are sent amongst them. O Lord help Thy servant to be faithful and be an instrument in Thine hands to do much good, through Jesus Christ, Amen.
Friday 5th - Stayed last night at brother Jeremiah Price's house. Visited some of the saints houses, and comforted them with the things of the gospel. In the evening I babtized a young woman of the name of Pricila Williams who promised me last night that she would be babtized this evening. Stayed at brother Jeremiah Price's house over night.
Saturday 6th - Came from Rhymneg to Tredegar, and stayed over night at brother Thomas Giles, house, over night.
Sunday 7th - Brother Thomas Giles the president of the Monmouth Shire conference, and myself came this morning to Brynmoawr, Breacon Shire to attend a quarterly conference in that County. Brother Thos. Morgans presiding. In the morning the authorities of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints were unamimousely voted for by all present, nevertheless it grieved me in seeing so few of the brethren and sisters present on such an important time, to raise their hands towards heaven to show to one another and to angels, and to our Father, in heaven and His Son Jesus Christ that we were willing and considered it a great privilage to vote for those good men that presided over us in the Lord. Several of the elders addressed the congregation through the day. I felt that something was not right in that conference, and came to find what it was.
Monday 8th - Brother Thomas Morgans told brother Daniel Daniels and myself that there were too much Tracts of president Dan Jones, make, a great deal sent by president Dan Jones to that conference. Brother Morgans stated about the situation of the branches in his conference, and said that the brethren could not sell to the people of the world but very few of the Tracts, and that the brethren in the branches tried to pay for the tracts themselves as much they could and give them to the people, in order that president Jones might be paid for them. The people of the world refuses to take the tracts for nothing that is some of the people, others would take them, and few would buy them. I understood that very little have been done in that conference towards the P. Emigrating Fund, and the Temple offerings as they had been trying to pay for the Tracts. Brother Morgans stated that his influence was lessening in the estimation of the brethren in the conference, oweing that he had pressed so much upon them to sell and pay for the Tracts, he also said that president Dan Jones, influence was lessened there too because that he sends so much Tracts there more than they can. Brother Morgans said that Capt. Jones sends there sometimes five times the amount of the semimonthly Periodical which comes there, and the Tracts also comes semimonthly. Brother Daniel Daniels and myself immediately wrote a note to president Dan Jones as we are his counseller, to inform him of the situation of the conference. President Thomas Morgans gave me 4/4 and the same amount to brother Daniel Daniels.
Came to Nantyglo, Brother Robert Evans the president of the Eastern Glamorgan conference gave me 10/ a portion of what was collected in his conference towards, helping the brethren in the ministry. Attended a district council at Blaend. The presidents of Branches was called by Elder Thomas D. Giles the president of that conference to state their feelings and the condition of their branches etc. they arose one after another and said that the Tracts are burdensome on them there that they could not sell but very few of the Tracts, and that they were paying their own money for them, etc and that they could not give so much in consequence of that towards other collections such as the P. Fund - Temple etc. they also stated that the greatest part of the people would rather to have English Tracts, even the Welsh people they said could read English better than Welsh. Stayed over night at brother James Tucker's house
Tuesday 9th - Sister Drudge this morning presented me of materials to make one shirt. Sister Tucker presents me of the making of the shirt. The brethren after the council last night gave me a few shillings towards paying my expenses. Came to Penycae in the afternoon, I called with Mrs. Rachel Joseph the mother of Ann Lewis, wife of William Lewis. Mrs. Joseph son has lately gone to Australia, she felt sorry that he is gone, she promised to go to the Salt Lake Valley after she will have a letter from her son, her daughter and son in law are willing to go to the Valley together if they can be helped by brother William Lewis from the Salt Lake Valley. I attended council at Penycae in brother John Davies, the Gapher's house, the presidents of the branches were complaining of too much Tracts being sent to them by president Dan Jones, or rather stated their feelings that they could not sell the amount of Tracts sent to them, they pay their own money for the Tracts hoping that they may sell some of them to the people of the world. The Temple offerings are very backward and so is the P. E. F. very backward. I taught the brethren in the council that president Dan Jones does not want them to pay their own money for the Tracts, he only wants them to be booksellors etc. The brethren after the council was over gave me few shillings.
Wednesday 10th - Came from Penycae to Tredagar, and attended a council there, I exhorted them to faithfulness, praying by the blessing of God that much good have been done. I found they have too much Tracts in this District also the brethren said that they can sell but very few of the Tracts that are sent unto them, they said that they are out often for hours offering Tracts for the people, and cannot over 1 or 2. I promised them that I would inform president Dan Jones of what they said, that he might send less tracts unto them. We published a district meeting to morrow evening of three branches to come together. The brethren after the council gave me two shillings towards my expences.
Thursday 11th - At Tredegar wrote one letter for president Daniel Spencer and one yesterday for brother John Parry the Pastor of North Wales conferences. Attended a district meeting at the English saints, Room. Three branches met together according to me desire - brother Thomas D. Giles presided over the meeting, he called on me to address the saints. I did so both in Welsh and English for about one hour. I had a freedom of speech to teach them their duties concerning different principles such as the Temple Offerings P. E. Fund, and other collections which are very nessesary for the building up of the Kingdom of our God on the Earth.
Friday 12th - Wrote a letter to my brother David Jeremy, I answered him of the questions he was asking me in his letter. Brother Thomas D. Giles and myself attended a Saints meeting at Shirowy in the evening and returned back to Tedsgar to stay over night. I have a very severe cold now which has as I believe been caused by so much perspiration in preaching in warm rooms I lately had, and after wards going out to the cold weather, but by the blessing of God I am determined to recover soon.
Saturday 13th - Posted a note for Brother Isaac Jones Carmarthen this morning informing him where to send my letters, after me as he is the one that receives my letters, and agreed with me to send them after me only that I should let him know where I shall be from time to time. It is very uncomfortable in this part of the country oweing to so many Iron works and so much smoke which do not agree atall with my health. I did not go hardly out from brother Thomas D. Giles house today - my head aches very bad, my voice is also hourse, but by the blessing of God I pray in the name of Jesus that may recover from this affliction soon.
Sunday 14th - Attended conference at Tredegar, brother Thomas D. Giles presiding. The meeting commenced at eleven o clock, A.M. The authorities of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints were set before the conference by myself to see whether we would sustain them in their present standing or not. I called their votes by lifting their right hand - all hands up and could not get a contrary vote. After the conference voted for all the authorities in Zion, then gave way to president Giles, to call the vote of the conference to sustain the presidency of the Brittish Isles, as well as the presidency of the Church in Wales, all voted to sustain these authorities in their pres[1])l?*[1]*??e presidency[1] Pthe conference, and the Clark of the conference as well as the presidents of the branches were sustained and voted for without a discenting vote. Thank the Lord for so much union. The buisiness of the conference was transacted, mostly in the morning and the afternoon meetings. I preached in the two o clock meeting. I felt well nevertheless my voice was hourse the power of my calling rested upon me, to God be the glory and His Son Jesus Christ. President Daniel Daniels also addressed the congregation with energy and power, as well as some of the rest of the brethren. President Thos. D. Giles told the saints in the conference that I was about to emigrate to Zion and said that he felt to help me to go there, and called the vote of the conference to see if they would be willing to assist me to go hence, all were willing, and showed their willingness by lifting their right hands. Brother Abednego Jones who is the second counsellor to the president of the conference said that he wanted to see me going off the Valley as comfortable, and used his influence on my behalf. May God bless him that he also may find many friends to assist him of what he needs. The very best of feelings were manifested throughout the conference - and all the conference promised to be more faithful this year than they have been the last year concerning financial affairs, by saying Amen, may they have the Spirit of God to enable them to remember their covenants from day to day is my prayer through Jesus Christ Amen. Some of the brethren and sisters after the close of the meeting gave me some money and I parted with them in peace.
Monday 15th - Brother Daniel Daniels and myself slept together last night. Brother Thos. D. Giles gave brother Daniel Daniels and myself 10/ each to assist us on our way. Came to Cwmbaryod and stayed there over night.
Tuesday 16th - Bought a gun with brother Jones Crombergod with a case attached to it for L4.10.0. Called at Dowlais with Mrs. Sarah Jones (widow) daughter of Daniel Evans Late of Croeswaunlluan Llanwenoy Cardigan Shire, she is a cousin to my wife. Attended a district council at Merthyr, some were dissatisfied with the teachings of president Robert Evans. Received a letter from my wife. Attended council this evening at Aberdare. The brethren here also are dissatisfied with the teachings of president Robert Evans concerning their temporal affairs etc. I told them that I would talk with brother Evans about the matter.
Thursday 18th - Attended a saints meeting at Cwmbach branch. I exhorted the saints to faithfulness and good works, and promised to do my best towards them, concerning them to be gathered home by using and influence with the saints in Zion to send for them. The brethren and sisters contributed towards me to pay my expences etc about 8/.
Friday 19th - Came from Cwmbach to Swansea, found president Dan Jones, in a poor estate of health. Received a letter from brother John Price, president of the South Pembroke conference and one also from brother John Gibbs and family and another from brother Stephen Abergele N Wales.
Saturday 20th - At Swansea, visiting some of the brethren.
Sunday 21st - Attended conference at the Saints Hall Orange Swansea. Brother D. E. Jones presiding. 47 were babtized in the quarter ending January 21st 1855. Good feelings were manifested amongst the saints. President Dan Jones addressed in Welsh the saints at the 3 o clock P.M. meeting. I addressed the saints in the evening meeting in English language, by way of a farewell sermon as I am going to migrate soon to Zion.
Monday 22. At Swansea, counselling with my brethren etc.
Tuesday 23 Visited Dewi E. Jones according to the counsel of president Dan Jones to look in conection with brother Daniel Daniels and brother William Lewis over his accounts in the conference.
Wednesday 24th - at Swansea visiting the saints.
Thursday 25th -Ê At Swansea.
Friday 26th At Swansea with president Dan Jones and visiting the saints.
Saturday 27th Came from Swansea to Llanelly with the Train, Stayed over night at the Wheat Sheaf. I received a very intelligent letter from Philadelphia from John Jeremy Griffiths my nephew, only that there is too much sectarianism about it, but he writes very feelingly about his mother, as well as giving the account of his brother Griffith's death.
Sunday 28th Attended conference at Llanelly. Brother Benjamin Jones presiding. The authorities of the Church were sustained without a discenting vote. President Dan Jones addressed the congregation, together with myself and several other elders through the day. I preached on the first principles of the gospel at two P.M. and also my discourse towards the end of my remarks was by way of farewell. Nineteen persons were babtized in the quarterly conference ending this day.
Monday 29th At Llanelly. President Dan Jones left for Swansea in the evening and I stayed at Llanelly. Benjamin Jones the president of the conference gave me 5/ towards my support of the collection that was made yesterday towards assisting the brethren in the ministry. I visited some of the saints and I also visited my cousin Mrs. Esther Williams, Llanelly Union.
Tuesday 30th Came from Llanelly in the afternoon to Pontnewydd branch, about 7 miles distance from Llanelly. I had a good saints meeting at Pontnewydd, after the meeting the brethren & sisters in that branch collected 10/ for me although they are but a few in number, nevertheless they have a very liberal hearts. May the Lord reward them for their charity. Brother David Davies the second counsellor to the president of the conference was in the meeting who is a very good man, may the Lord continue to bless him. Brother David Evans the president of Pontnewydd branch is also a good, kind charitable man as well as his wife.
Wednesday 31st Came from Pontnewydd branch to Carmarthen by way of Sansaint and Ferry Side. I called at the Ferry Side at Mr Hugh Williams, lodgings, to see him, but he was not at home.

February 1855

Thursday, February 1st - At Carmarthen writing on my journal, and writing letters etc.
Friday 2nd - At Carmarthen my brother David came here to day, we intended to send the deposit money to president Dan Jones, to day, but we postponed that until my brother David, and brother David Williams will have an answer from the Sisters, that intend to go away with them from Pembroke Shire. Namely Sarah Jane Lewis, and Mary Harries, their age is wanted, occupation, and the country where they have been born etc to send away with the deposit, in order to secure a passage over the sea. My brother David Jeremy presented one of a fine gold finger ring which cost him 14/ with Mr Davies watchmaker Lower Market Street Carmarthen.
Saturday 3rd - At Carmarthen all day.
Sunday 4th - Attended conferences at the Saints Room, Lanias Street Carmarthen, Brother Thomas Jenkins presiding. Very few attended in the morning, which caused my heart to grieve. Ten have been added to the Church in this conference in the last three months. All the authorities of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Saints were sustained in their standing, without a discenting vote. Brothers Benjamin Jones the president of the Llanelly conference and John Lewis Saddler of the same place addressed the congregation, as well as brother Thomas Jenkins and myself, and also other brethren spoke their feelings etc. The weather is now very cold the ground is covered with snow which hindered some of the brethren from the country from attending conference.
Monday 5th - At Carmarthen in the morning, Brother Thomas Jenkins gave me last night four shillings to assist me to pay my expences. Thos. Jenkins himself does not give the money, but they are given from the conference. Elder Jenkins told me that there is about ten times as much of Cap Jones tracts coming from the office, from Swansea to the conference as there are of Udgorn, and that they can not sell but very few of the Tracts. Sometimes some of the brethren have to travail all day from house to house and cannot even sell one tract. He (Elder Jenkins) told me that the Tracts are in great piles in the branches, and that they cannot sell them. I gave to Elder David Hughes 1/ and gave one shilling a piece to Elders William Mogans and John Davies who have been labouring for some time in the Carmarthen Conference, and they are now very poor & do not get from the conference towards their support but very very little. I came in a cart with brother David Jeremy to his house in the evening about eleven miles distance from Carmarthen.
Tuesday 6th - At brother David's house, writing on my journal and writing letters etc.
Wednesday 7th - Writing in brother David's house in the morning. Visited my sister Sarah in the afternoon, she has given birth last Saturday to a male babe they call his name David after brother David's name, he is a fine, child, and my sister is recovering as well as we can expect, thank the Lord, God the Eternal Father I humbly ask Thee in the name of Thy beloved Son Jesus Christ to remember in tender mercy my beloved Sister Sarah and her offsbring, may the way bee speedily opened for their deliverance out of bondage. Thou knowest O Lord the desire of her heart even to gather with Thy people to the appointed place of the gathering of Thy people in these the last days.
Thursday 8th - At brother David's house writing on my family record Book, the names and ages of, my relatives.
Friday 9th I left brother David's house in the morning for Cardigan Shire conference. Stayed at Rhydybenne with Mr. John Jenkins, house.
Saturday 10th Came to New-Court in order to attend conference to morrow.
Sunday 11th I have been sucsessful with the Miller of the place yesterday in having the lone of his dwelling house to hold our conference this day. Brother Benjamin Evans the president of the conference presided. The morning meeting was spent mostly in preaching to those that came to hear, and also the authorities of the Church were voted for, without a discenting vote. Several of the brethren addressed the congregation, and did speak with power and authority, those that were present seemed to be well pleases. President Benjamin Evans and myself addressed the congregation at two P.M. and I trust by the blessing of God that the seed that has been sown may root deep in the hearts of the people that they my bring forth fruit to repentance. We held a council in the evening in order to transact the nessesary buisiness pertaining to the conference. The conference is deep in debt of books, the sum about L14.00, they are sinking deeper and deeper in debt owing to so many tracts sent to the conference by President Dan Jones, they have they say great piles of Capt Jones, tracts in every branch and cannot sell them to the people - some of the people says when they are offering tracts unto them, "If you want a penny to buy food we will give it to you, but we do not want your tracts." The situation of this conference are generally poor, and little or nothing has been done towards the Temple and the P. E. Fund, about 18/ have been collected towards brother Benjamin Evans the president of the conference. The presidents of the branches complains very much of having too much tracts sent to them by president Dan Jones as the people they say are refusing to buy them. The brethren collected to me in the council towards assisting me to emigrate to Zion this season 6/10. I was called to close the council by prayer, and we parted some of us not likely to see one another for some years to come. May the blessing of the Lord rest upon all of us that love Him, Amen. Slept last night at Mrs Hughes, House.
Monday 12th Came from New Court to Maesmynack to meet Mr John Jenkins Rhydybenne. Mr John Jenkins paid me L55.00 he kept L5.0.0 inasmuch as the Certificate is not returned from the Great Salt Lake City, with the testimony of the Secretary of State and Notary Public that my wife Sarah Jeremy was alive on or after the 28th of September 1854. Mr John Jenkins promised to me and said "if that Certificate will return from the Great Salt Lake City before my departure from the Brittish Shores that he will pay that L5.00. and if I will leave before the above named Certificate will return I am to forfeit the five pounds. Came to Llanybyther and stayed at the Crosshands over night.
Tuesday 13th Brother Benjamin Evans accompanied me from Llanybyther to brother David's house about 12 miles distance.
Wednesday 14th At brother David's house all day. I had a severe cold in coming over Llanybyther mountain yesterday.
Thursday 15th Came to Carmarthen with the intention of going to Swansea with the deposit money of difference brethren to send to Liverpool, in order to secure a passage over the Ocean to America, but oweing to my being sick from the effect of the severe cold I had I could not go and I prevailed on my brother David to go instead o myself. Sister Elizabeth Johns, from Haverfordwest came to Carmarthen to day in order to go to Zion as a servant with my brother David. Sister Julia Gibbs accompanied sister Johns, from H. West to Carmarthen. I slept in Carmarthen that night.
Friday 16th Brother David left Carmarthen early this morning for Swansea, with the money to send to Liverpool etc. Came to Santyfedwen to my brother's house. Elizabeth Johns came with me.
Saturday 17th At brother David's house. My face on one side is very sore having swelled from the effects of cold, but by the blessing of God I hope I shall recover soon.
Sunday 18th At brother David's house, could not attend meeting oweing to sickness.
Monday 19th At brother David's house writing etc.
Tuesday 20th I visited my sister Sarah to day in the afternoon, and returned to brother David's house to stay over night.
Wednesday 21st Came to Carmarthen in company with brother David and his wife. I bought in Carmarthen with Mr Davies Shopkeeper (where Mr Bagnel used to keep buisiness) goods to the amount of L7.11.01/2 which I intend to take with me to the G. S. Lake City. Came to Gelliddu and stayed there over night.
Thursday 22nd Came from Gellyddu in the morning to Carmarthen, and from there to "Cefncristh" to my sister's house. I testified a great deal to my sister and brother-in-law of the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ as it has been revealed in the last days. My sister Esther gave me 10/ to take with me to my sister Ann to Piladelphia America, and her husband gave me another 10/ to give to my sister Ann. My sister Esther gave me two fine pairs of white sock, and she also gave me a quantity of salt bacon to use on the voyage to America.
Friday 23rd I had many conversations with my sister and her husband this morning concerning different things that have transpired in time that is past and gone by, we talked of our father and mother that are now laying in the silent tomb, and many scenes of our youthful days came fresh to our memory - we also talked of our sister Ann who live in Philadelphia U. States of America. I parted with my sister and her family in the afternoon, and the tears were in her eyes, as well as some of her daughters, was an ample proof of sorrow in them to part with me which spoke louder than words, I ask Thee reighteous Father in the name of Jesus Christ to bless my testimony, which I have testified unto them, that it might be rooted deeply in their hearts, that they may as a family yield obedience to Thy reighteous commandments is the desire of Thy servant's heart in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. Came with the Train from "Saint Clears" Station to H. West.
Saturday 24th Slept last night at brother John Gibbs, house he and sister Gibbs treated me very kindly. Brother Thomas Evans the president of the north Pembroke conference came to H. West yesterday, he gave me one sovereign which is to be collected in his conference to assist me to emigrate to the Vallies of the mountains. Brother Thomas Evans and myself came to Pembroke Town in the afternoon by way of Milford, we stayed about two house in brother Thomas Harries, house in Haven's Head, on our way to Pembroke. It was raining very heavy until we got wet to the skin. I changed my clothes at brother George Sinnett's house at Monkton and was very comfortable.
Sunday 25th Attended conference at our Tabernacle, brother John Price presiding. President John Price addressed the congregation after singing and prayer with a good degree of the spirit of his calling. Six were added to the church in this conference in the quarter ending this day All the authorities of the church were voted for with a willing hearts, and all seemed as to esteem it a great privilage to vote for and sustain president Brigham Young in his high and holy calling together with his counsellors, and all others that are in authority to teach us the way of life and salvation. The day was spent in preaching, by several of the brethren as well as transacting the nessesary buisiness needed. Very good feeling appeared to prevail in the bosoms of the saints for which I feel very thankful to my God.
Monday 26th Met in council at the Tabernacle with the brethren. Time will not allow me to write but very little of the transactions of the council as the minutes of the conference will be seen on the council book I do not deem it nesesary for me to write the whole of the minutes of the conference on my Journal, but a few things that I consider the most beneficial to pen down on it. All the brethren in council were very willing to obey all the requirements were put on them to perform, in financial affairs etc. President John Price has a great influence over the saints in his conference. May the Lord bless him greatly and all the faithful saints under his presidency is the desire of my heart in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen. The brethren in the conference agreed to give me L3.0.0 towards my emigration to Zion, president John Price gave me the L3.0.0 for which I am very thankful to the brethren and to my heavenly Father for putting it in the saints hearts to assist me. Sister Martha Sinnett made me some presents, which will be very useful for me on my journey to Zion. The brethren in the council collected 9/01/2 to me to pay my expences to Swansea. I bid the last farewell to many of the brethren and sisters at Pembroke, and felt in my heart to bless them, and have no hopes to see them for some years to come. Came to H. West in company with president John Price and several others of brethren and sisters.
Tuesday 27th Slept last night at brother John Gibbs, house. Spent most of my time this day to write on my Journal. Sister Martha Sinnett received the following vision in our Saints meeting yesterday after the council, she worded it something as follows; I first saw a man comeing to brother Thomas Jeremy and he put one of his hands round his neck and he looked earnestly in his face, and said "I am come with an important message from heaven to you, you shall emigrate safe to your home, and many shall follow you from this land, and they shall lift up their voices and call you blessed you also shall be sent out and gather in a nation. I am thy brother John. I suppose that Sister Sinnett did not remember all that she has seen and heard, as she has seen the same personage and another one with him going to elder John Price, and they laid their hands on his head and blessed him, and afterwards they raised their hands up and blessed, all the saints. It was had for sister Sinnett to keep all in memory concerning me as she heard and seen so much afterwards.
Wednesday 28thBrother John Gibbs presented me of a pair of fine slippers, he and his wife treated me very kindly. After bidding farewell to the faithful saints at H. West, I came with the Train to Carmarthen, and from the Llanelly. Distance from Llanelly to H. West is 51 miles on the rail road. Stayed at Llanelly over night.

March 1855

Thursday 1st Came from Llanelly to Swansea with the Train. Stayed with president Dan Jones and gave him an account of the situation of the conferences that I have visited since I saw last.
Friday 2nd This morning I wrote several letters, to the following Brethren, (to know their feelings, as they are presidents of conferences, concerning me, as they are living to far from me to talk with them personally) Thos D. Giles president of the Monmouth Shire conference, Robert Evans president of the Eastern Glamorgan conference, Thomas Morgans president of the Brecknock Shire conference, John Parry, pastor of the North Wales conferences as well as president over the Denbigh Shire conference, Richard Roberts president of Dyffryn Conway conference, Lewis Davies president of the Flint Shire conference, John Davies president of the Meirionyth Shire conference. Most of the other presidents I shall see, and talk with them personally, to know is they feel disposed to give me a Memorial; as some have suggested that I should have one to take with me to Zion as a testimony of my labors while on my mission here in Wales. The following is a copy of a letter that brother Dewi Elved Jones president of the Eastern Glamorgan conference sent to president Dan Jones. "Dear Prest. Jones with cheerful feelings and willing readiness I can authorise you to subscribe my name to the "Memorial" of my beloved Prest. and worthy brother, Elder Thomas Jeremy. In fervent prayer for his success and prosperity, I remain your humble servant in the everlasting covenant
Dewi Elved Jones.
Saturday 3rd Slept last night with Prest. Dan Jones. Left Swansea this morning with the half past eight train for Carmarthen. I have seen prest. Daniel Daniels, and brother Benjamin Jones the president of the Llanelly conference in Carmarthen. Brother Benjamin Jones feels very willing to give me a "Memorial" in connection with the rest of the presidents of conferences. Came from Carmarthen to my brother David's house.
Sunday 4th Attended a sacrament meeting in Brechfa branch this morning a good portion of the spirit of the Lord rested upon the saints.
Monday 5th At my brother's house writing and putting some of my things in my Box in order to be ready to start for Liverpool, when the letter of Notification will come.
Tuesday 6th At brother David's house, writing the names of my relatives on my book to take with me to Zion.
Wednesday 7th Writing in my brother's house in the forenoon, and visited my sister Sarah in the afternoon, she was glad to see me and her little children was also very glad, O my God I pray Thee in the Name of Jesus Christ to open the way before my beloved sister that she my gather together with her little children to Zion to enjoy the blessings that are to be received by the faithful in that place, is the desire of thy servant's heart in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Thursday 8th Writing the names of my relatives, both dead and living on my book. The dates of their births and deaths of many of them cannot be found.
Friday 9th Came to Carmarthen in the afternoon, bought a few things to take with me to Zion at Carmarthen.
Saturday 10th Came from Carmarthen to brother David's house in the evening.
Sunday 11th Attended a conference council in the upper part of the Carmarthen conference at Nanthie - brother Thomas Jenkins presiding. My brother David was liberated of the presidency of the Brechfa Branch and also of being counsellor to the president of the conference as he is emigrating this year to the land of Zion. Very good feelings were manifested with the brethren towards my brother David and the conference are presenting him of a 'Memorial' to take with him to Zion.
Monday 12th At brother David's house continuing to write the names of my relatives on my book. Came to Crybynau late in the evening to see my sister Sarah and her little flock which are now five in number. Evan Williams her husband has no desire to receive the truth as yet, the Lord only knows whether he will some future day or not.
Tuesday 13th At brother David's house writing, and preparing for emigrating to Zion.
Wednesday 14th At brother David's house continuing to write the names of my relatives on my record book, their ages, where born, when Married, to whom, where died and where burried, etc as far as they can be found.
Thursday 15th Brother David and myself visited Mr David Evans White Hall Brechfa this morning - he is a second cousin to us, and much older than myself, and he has got an excellent memory about our forefathers, we got of him seventy two names of living and dead, which would be too hard for us to know about them all had it not been for him to tell us. I rejoice in finding so much of the names of my relatives, with the dates etc etc hoping that I can do something for them in a future day, or my posterity after me. I feel to thank the Lord for the glorious principle of babtizing for the dead etc, and the beautiful revelations. He has so liberally gave His people in theses the last days.
Friday 16th At brother David's house writing a letter to send to the Box Elder Settlement for Sister Ruth Jones Pantmawr Llansawel, for her daughter Elizabeth Owens.
Saturday 17th At brother David's house writing on my journal etc.
Sunday 18th Attended a sacrament meeting in Brechfa Branch. This Sunday is likely the last Sunday to me to meet with my brethren and sisters in this branch. My sister Sarah was in the meeting although it was raining very heavy, and she also had a long way to walk with her little baby in her arms not being but a few weeks old, she arose up and bore her testimony of the truth of the gospel, with a desire for the saints to pray for her that she might be delivered to Zion, her husband is not a member in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, but is very much opposed to the doctrine we believe in. The tears freely flowed over my cheeks, when thinking of the circumtance my dear sister is in. Mercyful Father have compassion on my sister, and may she be delivered out of bondage and her little ones, is the prayer of Thy servant's heart in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Monday 20th My sister Sarah came with me this morning to my brother David's house and we spent the day together.
Wednesday 21st Visited some of my old neighbors at Escerydd. I babtized the son of Mr David Thomas of that place about seven or eight years ago, and he is comming to Zion this year the same time as me, and may the Lord grant us health and strength to go home for Jesus sake. Amen.
Thursday 22nd Visited my sister Sarah at Crybynau and it was hard to part with her, she is very anxious to gather with the people of God to the vallies of the mountains. The tears were rolling over her cheeks when parting with me which was an ample proof that she loves me dearly. May she and her little ones be blest that they may gather home to the mountains of Ephraim and the fat vallies thereof is my constant prayer in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.
Friday 23rd Came from brother David's house to Carmarthen, and stayed here over that night.
Saturday 24th Came from Carmarthen to Swansea and stayed with president Dan Jones over night.
Sunday 25th Attended a sacrament meeting in the morning with the saints in the Welsh branch and another sacrament meeting with the saints in the after noon in the English branch. The brethren and sisters enjoyed a good portion of the spirit of God and some spoke in tongues and prophesied, as well as interpreting the unknown tongues. Attended a preaching meeting at six in the evening where president Dan Jones preached over two house to an attentive congregation.
Monday 26th There is a man in this Town of the name of A. B. Hepburn that has lately come to this place, he is going to deliver three lectures against "Mormonism" he is going to commence his first lecture to morrow night at the "Guildhall" Swansea. There are Hand bills out throughout the town on the walls, and one I have noticed on a Chapel door in Hight Street as well as in the shop widows etc etc. I shall write the following from his hand bill. "Lecture 1st - The origin and first principles of Mormonism - How the people are deceived by three Babtisms for the living and one for the dead. Lecture 2nd - The Book of Mormon proved unscriptural - how the people are robbed of their money - Their miracles proved false, and their unknown tongue a deception. Lecture 3rd Their blasphemous account of the origin of God, and His wives in heaven - The mysteries of the Mormon temple in America, Illustrated by a panorama. This Hepburn has been in many places interrupting the saints in England at their meetings etc. How long wilt Thou Oh Lord suffer this Hepburn to go about to scandalize Thy cause, and Thy people in such a ridiculous manner? May Hepburn have no influence on the mind of honest men to hinder them to believe the principles of life and salvation, but to the contrary, I pray Thee reighteous Father in the name of Jesus Christ that many may inquire to our principles more fully after hearing so much against us falsely.
Tuesday 27th President Dan Jones and myself visited brother and sister Kneight yesterday evening - they made a present to me of the Latter Day saints English Hynm book which is neatly bound.
Wednesday 28th Wrote some letters and visited my friends etc. Hepburn has commenced lectureing and supported by sectarian priests, they do not know that thy fight against the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, but they will find that out some day. I hope that they will repent of their sins before it will be too late on them, for surely they shall find that there is a God in Israel.
Thursday 29th Stayed at Swansea, visited some of the saints for the last time, ere I depart to Zion.
Friday 30th President Dan Jones has published a large hand bills to defend the truth against the "anti Mormon lecturer" who calls himself A. B. Hepburn. Came from Swansea to Llanelly and stayed there over night. Brother John Lewis Saddler presented me of a pair of new brazer and a "life preserver"
Saturday 31st Came from Llanelly to Carmarthen, met in Carmarthen with my two sisters, namely Esther and Sarah, we parted with feelings that are not easily described, my sister Sarah is a faithful member in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, but my sister Esther is not, but I hope she will I testified much unto her of the truth of the gospel of the Son of God, she told me that she believes that I am sincere etc. The eyes of my sisters were bedewed with tears, when we parted near a place that is called Tanerdy Bach, my sister Esther was going with sister Sarah to Crybynau to pay her a visit. I kept looking after them until they were out of my sight and thinking when I should see them again, whether I should this side of the grave or not, the Almighty only knoweth that, my earnest hopes are that shall be saved in the kingdom of God.

April 1855

Sunday 1st Attended a district council at the Saints room in Carmarthen, and attended a sacrament meeting at half past two P.M. at the same place. I also preached on the first principles of the gospel at 6 P.M. Brother Thomas Jenkins also preached, and my desire is that the seed that has been sown may have good ground, and the honest in heart be saved in the Kingdom of God.
Monday 2nd Brother David, his wife and sister Elizabeth John, their servant, together with brothers Daniel Thomas and David Williams all came here to Carmarthen to day in order to be ready to go with the Train for Swansea to morrow.
Tuesday 3rd Came from Carmarthen to Swansea, with the brethren and sisters, and stayed at the Beufort Arms over night.
Wednesday 4th Started on board of the Steamer "Glendewer" for Liverpool at 8 o clock this evening. Left many friends and warm hearted saints in my native country behind, my prayer is to God that they might be delivered from bondage, and be gathered home to Zion speedily. Some of the saints from Pembroke Shire came on board of our Steamer this night.
Thursday 5th On board of the Steamer.
Friday 6th Came to Liverpool about 7 o clock, P.M. after a pleasant voyage.
Saturday 7th At Liverpool helping my brethren and sisters in getting their tickets to secure their passage from Liverpool to Philadelphia.
Sunday 8th Attended two sacrament meetings at Liverpool to day, in the morning with the English brethren at Rose Place and in the afternoon with the Welsh brethren.
Monday 9th At Liverpool
Tuesday 10th At Liverpool helping the brethren to prepare for the Voyage.
Wednesday 11th Paid L10 of tithing to President Franklin D. Richards, Brother Richards blessed me and said that I should have all the desires of my heat, and promised me many other blessings that were very consoling to me. My heart's desire is before the Lord in the name of Jesus Christ that I may have strength to overcome every temtation and trial and hold faithful unto the end of my days.
Thursday 12th At Liverpool. Most of the brethren are now on board of the Ship "Chimborazo" waiting the day of sailing.
Friday 13th At Liverpool in the ship "Chimborazo" in the "Bramley Moore Docks".
Saturday 14th At Liverpool
Sunday 15th We held two meetings on the poop deck this day. The saints in this ship were organized a conference yesterday, brother Edward Stephenson was presented before the saints to see if it would meet their approbation to have him to preside over the saints, in crossing the sea. Brother Edward Stephenson was sustained by all the saints. When brother F. D. Richards the President of the Church in the Brittish Iles nominated brother Edward Stephenson to preside over the saints in crossing the sea he sellected to him four counsellors, their names are as follows: Andrew Lamoreaux, Thomas Jeremy, Wm W. Mills, and Martin Slack. Several of the American brethren addressed the saints to day with much influence and power.
Monday 16th At Liverpool on board of the ship in 'Bramley Moore Dock".
Tuesday 17th Left the Liverpool docks, for Philadelphia between twelve and one o clock at noon, a steamer came to draw our ship out to the sea. The steamer turned back after comming to draw our ship about 20 miles to the sea, and then we were left alone on the mighty deep. The evening was very pleasant.
Wednesday 18th The weather very pleasant. Prayer meetings throughout the whole ship. Kept in the 7th different wards that have been organized. My brother David Jeremy was selected one of the presidents of the wards. The prayer meetings were and are held at 8 o clock A.M. and 7 o clock P.M. There are about 200 hundred of welsh saints on board of this ship, and something about the same number of between English & Jersey saints.
Thursday 19th Very fine weather. Preaching meeting on the Poop Deck at 12 o clock.
Friday 20th Brother Jeremiah Price's little girl about two years and a quarter old feel down on her head through the Hatch way from the deck to the steerage. It was a sad fall her blood was streaming out through her little mouth for a long time. Brother Wm. W. Milles anointed her with consecrated oil, and he and others laid their hands on her head with me, and she soon seemed to be better. The accident that happened to the little girl should be a warning unto all parents having little children on ship board.
Saturday 21st Fair wind the ship goes at the rate 8 or 0 miles per hour.
Sunday 22nd Brother Jeremiah Price's little girl died last night about half past one o clock. We buried her in the watery grave, to day about 5 o clock P.M. I was called before burring the little child to preach both in welsh and English, my remarks was on the subject of the resurection, others also spoke on the same subject.
Monday 23rd Fair wind, the sea is rather rough for some days past. Many of the saints are sea sick.
Sunday 29th I have been sea sick most of the past week. The sea has been very rough, and because of the storm I did not keep my journal daily.. The saints are better in health to day than they have been. Preaching meeting on the deck. The weather very pleasant to day, it is a calm, the ship is going at a very slow rate, something about one mile per hour. I pray to God in the name of Jesus Christ for fair wind that we may go speedyly to Philadelphia, and from thence we well continue our journey, on unto the several Stakes of Zion, by the blessing of our God. Amen.

May 1855

Tuesday 1st All the saints on board faster to day according to a vote that was taken last Sunday. The ship is going very fast since last Sunday.
Wednesday 2nd Brother William Beynon's child died about 8 o clock this morning. The child's name is Caradoc Palmer Beynon. Brother William Beynon and his wife are from George Town Branch Merthyr Tydirl Glamorgan Shire South Wales. The child's age at his death was 11 months lacking 9 days and died of the discease of inflation of the lungs. President Edward Stephenson gave me the charge of the childs burial which took place about 3 o clock P.M. I called the brethren to sing a welsh hymn, and after I prayed, the child was burried in the water grave.
Sunday 6th Meetings on the deck in the forenoon. President Edward Stephenson and others addressed the English and the Jersey saints, on one part of the ship, and I addressed the Welsh saints on another part, as they do not understand the English langwage, I addressed them in the Welsh langwage. We held meetings also in the afternoon, and we partook of the sacrament.
Sunday 13th Nothing very particular took place last week, we enjoyed good meetings, and my health and the health of the brethren and sisters were generally good. We held three meetings to day on the poop deck, good instrucktions were given to the saints. At our six o clock meeting P.M. We partook of the sacrament.
Thursday 17th Very pleasant weather. I called a meeting of the Welsh Brethren, together and gave them such counsels as the Spirit of God dictated to me. I advised them to be cautious concerning diet and sprituous liquors after landing in Philadelphia - fresh meat and vegetables, are injurious to eat but very sparingly after being so long on the sea etc. I also exhorted them to beware of giving way to entoxicating drinks also, with other counsels that were nesesary for their welfare and happiness. The saints felt well and many of them spoke after I gave them the privilage of speaking, and said that they were well satisfied with the teachings they felt willing to hearken to counsel etc.
Tuesday 22nd Arrived safe at Philadelphia this morning about 6 o clock, the seenery on both side of the River Deleware was beautiful. I onece more had the pleasure of seeing my sister Ann after an absence of over two years and a half. The joy we had together, and in seeing her children was very great indeed. Stayed in John Jeremy Griffiths, my nephew's house.
Wednesday 23rd Stayed at Philadelphia, very buisily engaged with the brethren in getting our luggage out of the ship Chimbarzo. Slept last night at John Jeremy Griffiths house, him and his wife treated my very kindly.
Nugent Griffiths my nephew says that he believes the doctrines of the Latter day saints, he says that he wishes to come with me to the Great Salt Lake City. Sister Ann is willing for her son to come with me under my care as a gardian to him.
Sister also promised to me that she and her daughter Sarah will come after us next year to Utah Territory, she manifested a great confidence in what I told her concerning the principles of the gospel.
Thursday 24th Stayed last night at John Jeremy Griffiths house together with my brother David and his wife, we all enjoyed ourselves in our beloved sister's company and sons and daughter Sarah. left Philadelphia for Pittsburg at twelve o clock at noon with the Train distance between three and four hundred miles.
Saturday 26th Arrived at Pittsburg at half past four o clock this morning. My luggage was taken from the station at Pittsburg with the rest of the saints, luggage, on board of the beautiful steamer "Amazon".
Sunday 27th On board of the steamer, and stayed at Pittsburg until the evening and then we left singing on board the songs of Zion. Hundreds of people were come to the Wharf to see us, and listened to the singing etc.
Tuesday 29th Arrived at Cincininatii at 6 o clock in the after noon. My nephew and nice, David John Griffiths, and Frances Griffiths came to see us and I was very happy to see them. David John is comming with us as far as Louisville, about one hundred and fifty miles distance.
Wednesday 30th arrived at Louisville K. Y. Visited my nephew Thomas I Griffiths was very glad to see me and my brother David, and was his wife very glad to see us also. I was treated very kindly by my nephew he made to brother David and myself, some presents. I testified some to him concerning the restoration of the gospel, and of the glorious blessings that are attatched to it etc. but he did not seem to believe much that I told to him, but I trust through the blessing of God that he will yet obey the gospel. Many siens of youthful days flooded to my memory very bright while visiting my nephew at Louisville. Kate Griffiths the wife of my nephew also treated me very kindly. Yesterday brother Squires boy fell over board, the boy was about 8 years of age, between Cincinatti and Louisville he fell to the river, nothing could be seen of him any more, his cap was found and that was all.

June 1855

Sunday June 3rd. Came last night to Saint Louis about 12 o clock. Visited many of the Welsh saints towards Gravois etc. they all treated me very kindly, it was truely a cause of rejoicing to see so many of them. Visited brother Jokes, near Gravois his two sisters from Birmingham England invited me to go to their brothers, house, with them.
Monday 4th We have to remove our luggage from the Steamer Amazon to "Ben Bolt" and we have to start with the "Ben Bolt, for "Atchison" on the river Misoury. It was a very busy day on me counselling and helping the brethren in moving from one Boat to another, as well as buying provisions for the plains and also Waggon, with different things that are nesesary for a long journey. Some wicked person broke in to my new trunk that I have bought at "Louisville" this evening. The porter of the Ben Bolt told me that he was ordered by a man to take it to a state room in the first "Cabin" from what I can understand that the old villain locked the door after him self in the Cabin and forced the lock open with some iron but he could not find any money in it the little that I have got was in my pocket. I cannot remember that nothing that I did put in it is missing, he was in search of money but was not doubt sadly disappointed he might think by the outward appearance of the Trunk supposed that it contained a great deal of money as it is a very handsome trunk. I pray to God that he might deliver me from the wicked place. A man fell over board before we started this night at the sturn, nothing could be seen of him afterwards, another one fell to the river but some of the brethren got him up, it was the Mississippi they both fell, not one of them were Latter day saints.
Tuesday 5th on board of the Steamer "Ben Bolt' on the Misoury river, President Edward Stevenson has got me a free passage up to Atchison in the first Cabin, we are both in the same state room, and w are together with the saints greatly blessed with health on this sickly river, to God be the praise for all his mercies extended to us all. President Stevenson preached a lengthy discourse this evening in the first cabin on the first principles of the gospel the Lord blessed him with much wisdom and power to explain the first principles in a very plain and simple manner. The saints did sing beautifully, and all the hearers appeared very attentively while they were addressed, by our worthy president. My prayer to God is in the name of Jesus that much good may result and souls be saved. Amen. The audience were addressed by request, by many gentlemen and strangers on board.
Wednesday 6th Raining very heavy.
June 11th. After a pleasent & prosperous trip we arrived safely at a small town "Atecheson" on the west bank of the river. We have camped for the night.
June 12th The brethren from a place called "Mormon Grove" came to meet us with their oxen & wagons etc. and we were soon removed to the 'Grove' where we were soon comfortably situated under our tents & in wagons "Mormon Grove presents a beautiful appearance with its pretty grove, its regular streets lined on each side by tents in regular order & the creeks on each side in the vallies below. The saints here are under the presidency of Brother Andrews who is a most excellent man and ably fitted for the duties imposed on him. I had the pleasure of meeting at this place many friends among whom was Bro Daniel Spencer Bro Balentine who has gone onward to wards Zion in charge of a train. Also Erastes Snow the president of "Stake" at St Louis and many other good Mormon friends whom I shall in ( ) hold ever gratfully the warmest feelings. My time has of late been occupied by buting my oxen & also those of my brothers, also buying our wagon etc etc & in Breaking our oxen to labor in the wagon we have succeeded admirable & with less trouble than some of the brethren have had with theirs. Tis truly a most laughable scene to see some of the freaks of the oxen during the "Breaking" in period. I had much instruction to give ere we got them to act their part as desired. Yet ... all the duties I had often the opertunity of attending many interesting meetings. I frequently had the pleasure of addressing the company at the Grove and during the time I spoke a most excellent spirit was manifested. "Many of the "leaders" at the Grove have frequently shown the warmest regard at the meetings & then private they have Blessed me again and again also telling me, how much They loved me In fact showing a feeling of the greatest confidence. The saints here are kept in admirable order. The Welsh English & those of other nations are all camped separate. This is the Welsh a company of themselves etc on with the others yet all under the same government. June We have had many happy meetings amongst ourselves. In which Bro Stevenson addressed the English portion while I did the Welsh. Our meetings "never smacked of nationality" as a dear brother Patrick Lynch would say, but were as one in union when nescessary. I should here remark to the credit of the Welsh company under my jurisdiction. That they were addressed one evening by Bro M. Andrews president here at the Grove- during his lecture, he repeatedly said that the "Welsh Saints under my charge, were the best class of people. Individually that he ever saw "Always willing". "Ever ready to do their duty". And not being satisfied with that they have called on me and said "Bro Andrews what can I do now", is there anything to be done". Such are about the substance of his praise to the welsh he also remarked that they were the only people who have asked for work. I was truly glad to hear his remarks and to add them to the many others I've heard from others.

July 1855

I will here ... by saying that I am writing my Journal since June 6th from recollection having been so much occupied by doing ... for the Saints it has debased me from having that time nescessary, even now on my Journey over the plains I have still the ... & ware to, So I have employed a clerk who is now writing as me and has been doing so since June 6th '55. I forgot to mention under the heading June 1855 that I baptized my nephew Nujent Griffiths here at the Grove on the 15th June 1855 and confirmed by my brother David. Daniel Thomas and myself a certificate having been given him from Bro Andrews to that effect. During the early past of our stay at the Grove in June we were separated from president Stevenson who was "sent on" to assist Bro Blain camp, and to assume the presidency in place of Bro Blain. I had the misfortune during the latter part of our stay to lose my yoke of oxen as did also several of the Brethren in the "Independent Co". There is something singular about loss of them for my brother & others saw them a few minutes precious to their being missed. We made many & every endeavor to find them, but without any success, my brother was out several days looking for them with some of the brethren, the oxen were very good & gentle & they would have just suited my son John's wish the one expressed in a letter to me, for "Short legged oxen" I have left description of them with Bro Andrew of whom I obtained a new yoke. A wonderful manifestation of the power of the Almighty God was witnessed by me during the severe illness of Bro Patrick Lynch who sent for me & desired that I would administer to him, his disease was cholera of the most violent form. So I at once laid hands on him and I no sooner done so than I I shall quote his own words "He felt a shock of Electricity as it were pass through his system & then a profuse sweating came out & next morning he was attending to his duties. At a meeting held in July for the purpose of appointing officers to conduct this company of saints over the plains, and many other bussiness matters of importance was transacted, it was voted, seconded, and unanimously carried that Bro A E Harper be the captain of the whole train, that I would be captain of the welsh. Bro St George of the Terdies [?] & French and Bro Dr Rust of the English. We are to start on the 25th of July, we are all ready and have been for some time. The welsh was the first Co ready.
Tuesday 24th we duly celebrated this "memorable day" by a grand procession in the welsh as usual in every thing Took the lead. All the saints of the Grove following with firearms of all descriptions. Also flags banners etc and plenty of music to enliven the scene with the shooting of guns etc etc. I think every demonstration was made; necessary. After the Grand March, we assembled the saints together for the purpose of a meeting, at which many good toasts was passed & many Happy addresses & a poetical ode was delivered by Bro Mills composed for the occation on the 24th & the Grove" was the subject. In the evening there was dancing etc etc.
Wednesday 25th We made our start for Zion, by moving our train about 2 miles from the Grove. We here camped for a time.
Monday 30th we are here at Grasshopper Creek 12 miles from the Grove, her we had plenty of water & wood & good feed for the cattle. We had to stay her one day to repair an axle tree broken. One of the 'Calafornians' oxen gorged himself to death. Bro's Erastus Snow Orson ... visited us in their carriage for a last good bye to have with officers & camp. From this point I shall skip over the many stopping places we made to our present camping ground The Big Blue river. Suffice it to say we are all in good health and have come along this far very well. With the exception of the death's of a baby of a Bro. Young, who was preciously very ill at the Grove. Also the melancholy accident that of a little girl of Bro. G