G. S. L. City, May 2, 1861.
Pres. George Q. Cannon,
42 Islington, Liverpool, England,
Dear Brother:--
On the 18th of April I wrote quite fully to yourself and br's Amasa and Charles, since when I have no letter from you to acknowledge, still I feel like writing to you again, for I am well aware of your anxiety to receive a word from home.
As previously advised, the four companies for Florence began to rendezvous near the mouth of Big Canon Creek Canon on the 20" ult., and on the 23d began to file through the canon, and to night the rear company will camp on the Weber. There are upwards of 200 wagons, besides some 30 wagons to be bought of Mr. Schuttler, and four yoke of cattle to each wagon sent and to be bought. Br's Joseph W. Young, Ira Eldredge, Joseph Horne, and John R. Murdock are the Captains of the Companies, and they take some 150,000 pounds of flour to deposit at suitable points east of the South Pass. Should that amount of flour prove insufficient, to enable the companies to come through, we purpose supplying the deficiency from here, as they will probably have enough to last them to this side of the Pass. Br's Warren S. Snow, Jacob G. Bigler, George Peacock, John D. Chase, and eleven others accompany the train to Florence on their way to the fields of their missions in the States, Europe, and the Cape of Good Hope.
We confidently anticipate that the assistance now forwarded will clear Florence of all the Saints who may be there wishing to come through this season, and, not withstanding the excitement abroad in the land, we anticipate that the brethren will travel so compactly, act so faithfully and prudently, and constantly be so on their Guard as to travel in safety to themselves, animals, and property.
By last night's pony, which brought dates to the 26th ult., we learn that the excitement in the States is constantly waxing fiercer, all parties merging under the geographical distinction of North and South, and with increasing bitterness taking sides in accordance with said geographical party line, with every prospect of their speedily precipitating themselves into civil war. Under existing circumstances the turning our immigration into the northern route and away from St Louis was manifestly designed for good, as it is not likely that they will be seriously inconvenienced by the present troubles, at least not during this season. It is supposed by some that the Indians on the route east of the Mountains may be inclined to be a little troublesome, but the four Companies from here are particularly instructed to be ever on the alert, and at no time to be so far apart but what they can assist each other upon short notice; and br's. Joseph W. Young, Ira Eldredge, Joseph Horne, and John R. Murdock with br's Jones and Gates, will organize and arrange all the Companies to travel in like manner, and each Company reasonably strong of itself. As "there is no danger in being safe," we trust that the immigration will be faithful and prudent in their conduct, and that their faithfulness and good conduct will so secure to them the blessings of Heaven in their travelings and campings that they will be privileged to arrive safely in our "nomination retreat."
I was gratified to learn that even so many as there are were about to emigrate from Scandinavia, Switzerland, and the British Isles, and many here could rejoice in being able to speedily deliver from bondage all who desire to join their faith and works with us in building up the kingdom of God on the earth. But we feel satisfied to bide the time and ways of the Lord for carrying on his work, realizing that all things have their times and seasons, and trusting that the Saints abroad will diligently unite their faith and good works with ours for their escape to this peaceful refuge appointed for the hiding of Israel until at least a portion of the indignation of the Almighty be past.
The elements continue propitious for the products of fields and gardens, and home affairs continue to be characterized by peace, industry, and increasing zealousness for good works.
Your family and the families of the Elders from here on missions are well and doing well, so far as I am informed, as are also the people generally.
Having you any money on deposit to the credit of John Slade? If so, inform me of the amount, and I will pay it to the administrators of his estate here.
Praying that all needed blessings may attend you, br's Amasa and Charles, and all who are laboring for the truth, I remain,
Your Brother in the Gospel,
Brigham Young