The Brigham Young Center

G. S. L. City Augt 31st, 1853.

Dear Brother,

Since my last letter to you, Indian aggressions still continue, & John Dixon, & John Quayle have been killed, & John Hoagland, & Isaac Duffin wounded, & some more Stock has been driven off. We are still acting entirely on the defensive, & are very busy securing our Crops, Hay, & winter's fuel, and in completing our defences.

Next Week, we shall commence making a substantial ditch & wall around the whole city, the wall to be 12 feet high with Gates & Bastions; this will be something of a Job, but we deem it one of the best moves we can now make for our temporal salvation.
As Bro Bernhisel, our Delegate to Congress, will be at Washington nearly all the time for the next two years and will be handling much means, I have thought it best to give him a power of attorney to transact my business, which on his arrival, will render the one you hold from me null.

I have written to Bro. Horace S. Eldredge to consult with you on the subject of appointing a responsible and suitable Saint, and one who is a judicious business man in his place, when he starts for home next season, this person must be appointed from the saints who are east of the Missouri River at the time; as I shall not be able to spare a suitable person from here; this selection will require care, and you will please lend Bro. Horace your aid in the matter,

Health & prosperity prevail in our borders, and the spirit of union is increasing.

Praying that you may rejoice in all needful blessings.

I Remain as ever,
Your Brother in the Gospel

Brigham Young

Prof. Orson Pratt
Washington City
D. C.