The Brigham Young Center

Gt. Salt Lake City,
May 28, 1867

Samuel Holt,

Dear Brother:

As you are going down to the Frontiers in the capacity of Captain in charge of seven four mule teams to haul up Woollen Machinery for Abraham O. Smoot, we wish to give you and the brethren who accompany you some instructions respecting the course which you should pursue during your absence. It is expected of yourself and the men with you that you will not forget that you are Latter-day Saints, and that the duties of your religion rest as much upon you when on the plains and away from home as when you are at home. If you remember who you are and what you profess, you will take care of your animals, wagons, harness, freight and everything else entrusted to your care, and not suffer any injury to befall these things that can possibly be averted; there will be no bad or cross language, no swearing, no drinking, no card playing, or anything of that kind, indulged in by yourselves or by others in your camp; but your conduct to your teams and to one another will be such that when you return you will feel that you have done your whole duty and we can welcome you with satisfaction. And what I say to you I say to all the companies of our brethren going East. You are at liberty to show this letter to any of the brethren with whom you meet,

Your Brother

Brigham Young