The Brigham Young Center

G.S.L. City, Feb. 21, 1861.

Hon. W.H. Hooper, M.C.,
Washington City, D.C.,

Dear Brother:-Your very welcome favor of the 5th inst., came safe to hand by Pony on the 20th, and its perusal afforded much gratification, especially to learn of the health and welfare of yourself and family, and trust, with you, that you will not only be able to keep on your "trotters", but that yourself family, and associates will be protected from disease and prospered in all your righteous efforts and desires.

Dotson has been from here some time, and left no property outside of attachment, so far as I know.

The 20th inst. Pony brought telegrams from Fort Kearney of Feb. 11, dates from Washington and various other points in the States, from which we learned that the Peace Commissioners had thus far been no more successful in staying rebellion, than had the House Committee of 33. The Southern Confederacy, in their provisional governmental arrangements, seem in a flourishing condition, with Jefferson Davis for President, A.H. Stevens, Vice President, and seven Delegates from Texas!

The questions propounded by Mr. Lincoln, in his short speech in Indianopolis on the 11th, taken in connection with the Chicago platform, would indicate the design of a rather stern policy toward seceders. He will soon learn that it is rather difficult to talk without conveying some idea, even though his observations are couched in questions. Br. Henry W. Lawrence and a few others purpose starting for the States on business, in a short time, and we expect to send by br. Henry for a few things, as he had kindly proffered to attend to such business as we may wish him to. The amount, of course, will depend upon the present and then condition of finances, but cash continues
quite scarce.

As then advised, I forwarded to you, by Pony, on the 20th; Superintendent Davies report, on his examination of my a/cs with the Indian Department; and, as also then advised, he stated that, he would forward his report, the papers named therein, the vouchers, &c., to the Department by the mail to-morrow.

As the stirring news is now manufactured where you are, of course you are not expecting exciting items from the peaceful and prosperous march of Utahs progress; but rest assured that in these troublous times, we are thankful for our mountain retreat."

Your Brother in the Gospel,

Brigham Young