G. S. Lake City Mar. 15th 1859
Elder George A. Smith,
Dear Brother:--
From the minutes of Court proceedings, Provo City Council movements, letter from br. Silas Smith to his brother Elias and br. Hosea's letter of the 12th inst., I am pleased with the information that affairs are moving along so prosperously in the South. I perceive that Judge Cradlebaugh took the cunning in turn upon the use of the word, 'intimidating,' in the letter addressed to him by the City Council of Provo. You are aware that the construction and wording of such documents should be closely scrutinized before being sent forth, and much judgment exercised to prevent any back-action, for the enemies of truth scan all matters with the cunning derived from their leading spirit, and lose no opportunity to head off the force of an argument through an inadvertent expression, as you doubtless perceived in Judge Cradlebaugh's reply. However, there is not the least harm done.
It is perfectly apparent, to all who reflect carefully, that the foulmouthed scurrility, ribaldry and profanity so commonly indulged in by some of the persons illegally and causelessly thrust upon Provo, are practiced on purpose to provoke tumult and riot, purely to gratify the evil and harm those who would do right. I know of no way so effectual in foiling their designs as to 'let them severely alone', except so far as to use such means as you already have, and other like means, for the removal of a nuisance so high-handedly imposed upon you. But words are but wind, and it is easy to pass on other streets, and then if the officers do not restrain their men and confine them strictly to the locality and duties which Judge Cradlebaugh has set forth in this Charge and other remarks and letters, at once enter complaint, properly authenticated, to the proper officer; and exercise the utmost forbearance till the nuisance can be removed upon the plan above named. I understand that Gov. Cumming is on a visit to your city, and I trust that his sound judgement, experience, good policy, and the influence they should give him in managing affairs for the welfare of the people, will enable him to effect the speedy removal of troops to where they belong.
No mail from the East since March 2nd, and that was done due Feb 27. I have no news of consequence from the West. The weather is gradually moderating, a few, here and there, are preparing for departure south, east, and west, and all things are tending to strengthen and hasten the great latter day work. We feel calm and pleasant, under a constant assurance that all things will work together for good.
Respectfully, Your Brother in the Gospel,
Brigham Young
P. S. Col. J. C. Little's son by his wife, formerly sister Holbrook, is dead, and was buried yesterday.
B. Y.