The Brigham Young Center

G.S.L. City, March 7. 1861.

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

Dear Brother:-The mail of March 4 and the pony of March 5 brought your very welcome and interesting favors of Jan. 30 and Feb 15. and 16, also several packages of papers, and the usual proportion of Congressional Globes.

Not aware that you designed tarrying so long in Washington, I omitted writing last week, feeling uncertain where to address you.
The ponies which arrived on the 5th and 6th inst., brought Washington and other dates as late as Feb. 26, from which we learn, among other items of general news, that

Mr. Lincoln had arrived safely at the Seat of Government. The slipping through Baltimore in disguise and so unceremoniously, and the airgun rumor, seem to indicate that some were rather determined that Mr Lincoln should not be inaugurated. Of course
you already know whether he was, or not; and we expect to know by the 11th inst., at the latest, and may be the 10th or even 9th

No word has yet arrived from br's Jones and Gates as to the number of cattle they intend to purchase. As you have been previously advised, the 200 teams contemplated to send to Florence, and perhaps more, are nearly or quite ready; but I do
not yet know how many loose cattle may be sent, though I still presume, as heretofore, that as many can be sent as our immigration may wish to purchase

Congress having adjourned, of course, unless a special or extra Session is called, further suggestions from her touching the transaction of Utah Congressional business would be out of time; though we are, in either case, not aware of any, for, as often before remarked, they will only do aught for Utah as they are constrained by a Power they do not recognize.

Nothing of particular moment has transpired here during the last two weeks, farther than plowing, seeding, setting out trees and plants, working on North Temple Street, and generally preparing for spring operations.

Br. George A. Smith and my son Joseph A. have just returned from a missionary tour through our southern settlements, preaching and settling difficulties. They have preached 40 odd times, travelled over 800 miles and enjoyed a pleasant and beneficial trip.

Br. John T. Caine, wife, and family are rapidly regaining their health, so much so that the children are quite well, and br. Caine and his wife are able to take short rides.

Presidents Wells and Spencer are again about, but their health is not yet rugged. We were much pleased to learn of the good health of yourself family, and br. Williams.

The Weber river bridge timber is all delivered on the bank, and I have learned, today, that br. Grow expects to complete the bridge in about two weeks.

Your Brother in the Gospel,

Brigham Young