Elders Joseph A and Brigham Young Jun
My dear Sons
Without having anything very special to communicate I thought I would drop you a few lines. I am happy to state that my health is exceedingly good, and has been uniformly so, for some time past, for which I feel very thankful Bro. Geo. A. Smith has been confined to the house for about two weeks, in consequence of a scalded foot, but it is improving and he will soon be about again. It is a general time of health. The weather has been quite cold, severely so. Matters have been very lively about Ogden since the place of junction was decided on. I am just informed by Telegraph that Gus Sprouse has been sentenced at Ogden, to be executed there on the 14th January next, for the murder of one Martin Earl at Uintah, Elder F. D. Richards Judge.
The U. C. R. R. interests are looking up again. Bro Staines returned the day before yesterday, and brought the pleasing intelligence that 125 cars loaded with iron for us, were on the road west of Omaha, and a telegram from Ogden states that thirty eight (38) of them had arrived, and thirty four (34) were expected to-day or to-morrow. John W. has resumed track laying to day.
I read in yesterday's Telegraphic news of your (Brigham) preaching at Williamsburg, I was pleased to hear of it. I trust the Elders who have been sent out this season instrumental in doing considerable good, at least so far as allaying popular prejudice goes, though there are few indications as yet of many baptisms.
On Christmas Eve I am giving a general family dinner party, I would have been much gratified to have had you both present had business permitted, as also Elizabeth and her baby, and would like Brigham to return with Joseph, as soon as he (Joseph) has completed his business.
I would be pleased to learn from Joseph A. when we may expect the new Locomotives also when he expects to start for home.
Remember me kindly to brother Burton. I would to hear from him what the facilities are for the sale of books, and would suggest that he apply to Bro. Carrington for a stock, as many enquiries are constantly being made here for the publications of the Church. I have caused a copy of this letter to be addressed to you at Philadelphia.
With love, and praying God to constantly bless you,
I am, as ever,
Your affectionate father.
Brigham Young