The Brigham Young Center

President's Office
Great Salt Lake City,
May 30, 1867

Mrs. Mary E. Lightner
Minersville, Beaver Co.

Dear Sister:

Your favor of May 20 has come to hand. I am pleased to learn from it of the improvements which are being made at Minersville and of the circumstances of the people. I am sorry that Bro. Henry has such poor health. There is no need for him to have feelings of sorrow through the idea that he is under my displeasure because he went to California with Bro. A.M. Lyman. I have no feelings against Bro. Henry because of his going there, and I feel that all is right with him if he himself will do right. Those who upbraid him with being a Californian, and on that account, despise his counsel, as Bishop, would do well to look to their own standing; for such a spirit, if indulged in, will, sooner or later, bring them into trouble and into the very position of which they accuse him of being in. Let Bro. Henry take a straightforward upright course, and he need not fear respecting his influence. Two men holding the same priesthood and officiating in the same calling will differ very much in their influence among the people; and this difference is attributable to the course which each takes. It is not position alone which gives men influence; but it can be obtained only by pursuing a thoroughly wise and consistent course. Whatever prejudice may, at present, exist in the minds of any against Brother Henry Rollins because of his past connection with A.M. Lyman will melt away in a short time if he continues faithful and attentive to his duties.

With love to you, to him and the family, and praying the Lord to bless you

I remain Your Brother
Brigham Young

P.S. This is as nigh as I can explain in this short letter.