G.S.L. City, March 15, 1860.
Hon. W.H. Hooper,
Washington, D.C.,
Dear Brother:-Your welcome letters of the 14th. and 20th. ult. are at hand, with Gen. Jessup's letter, and the contents noted.
In relation to Gen. Jessup's letter, you write "I can, of course, do nothing at present" neither can we, so far as I know. When have they extended to us our rights and privileges? Our trust is in the Lord of hosts, and, as frequently advised heretofore, it simply remains for you to operate to the best advantage your judgement and facilities will permit, in this and all other matters, and patiently trust results to Him who controls human affairs.
I perceive that Congress has accomplished but little, notwithstanding the elapse of eleven days between Mr. Pennington's announcement of the Standing committees and yours of the 20th., our latest date. There are so many antagonistic questions, combinations, elements, and feelings operating in Washington that there appears to be but little prospect for the transaction of much Congressional business during the present session, especially of that which may tend to the general welfare. During the past two years at home you had a tolerably good opportunity for noting the views and operations of men of different temperaments and designs, but in many particulars your immediate field of observation is now much enlarged, and, however unpleasant the position, it can be made very beneficial to yourself; and doubtless you will have good cause, sooner or later to be satisfied with your zealous labors in behalf of Utah, as will all who steadfastly labor for the right.
The accounts for suppression of Indian hostilities in Utah in 1856-7 are on file in the room of the House Committee on Military Affairs. Dr. Bernhisel informs me that the Clerk of that Committee can furnish them, also that he has previously written to you upon this subject.
Where does Senator Green obtain his authority for congressional legislation to blot out an organized Territory? It is assumed authority for Congress even to organize a Territory, for the constitution confers upon them no authority, either direct or fairly implied, to legislate in any manner for American citizens not in Government employ, save those residing in the District of Columbia. But when certain classes hold power the rights of the people are constantly jeopardized the trampled under foot, unless the Lord sees to order otherwise.
Should Russell wish me to furnish ponies for his express, or property or means for other purposes, I shall require a draft from him in advance, covering the required amount, or other perfectly secure and short time negotiable paper, also in advance, to prevent the many serious accidents and disappointments so liable to occur in dealing to large amounts. The home of his Agent here is in the wind, and his abiding place, in the whirlwind.
An express arrived here about 10 p.m. of the 13th, in nine or ten <fourteen> days from Leavenworth, so said, but the cause of the haste has not yet transpired. Aside from the letters brought by it, yours of the 20th ult. among them, it is reported that a N.Y. Herald of the 25th. arrived and was sent to Camp Floyd. Seventeen days from New York is very good time for this season of the year. Even by the mail but few papers are brought, and have not been for sometime past, and no magazines, and but few books, 5 from yourself being all I have received, of which I have advised you. Is it not about time for the immense amount of back matter to begin to thaw out and arrive?
I was pleased to learn that you intended to come home upon the adjournment of Congress. As br. George Q. is with you, please give him my thanks for his letter of Dec. 13, which came to hand on the 12th inst. Where has it been so long?
Your family are well; Pres. Wells' health is improving; plowing has commenced; and affairs here are steadily moving in the right direction.
Your Brother in the Gospel,
(Signed)
Brigham Young