The Brigham Young Center

Salt Lake City, U.T.
August 6. 1872.

Elder Edward Stevenson,
Des Moines, Iowa.

Dear Bro:

Your interesting letter of the 28th ult. was duly received and perused with much satisfaction. We are always pleased to hear of the success of the elders in disseminating the principles of the Gospel, and it really seems that the time is approaching when the rich and the learned of this and other nations, as well as the poor, are to hear the gospel in its plainness from the lips of our elders.

With regard to your visit to Saratoga, it is a matter that we now care nothing about, as his Judgeship is here. He is keeping himself very quiet at present, whatever he may try to do in the future.

We are having remarkably good crops this season and labor is in great demand, not only in the agricultural interest but in mining and railroading.

There are now three railroads in course of construction here the Utah Southern, the American Fork Kanyon R.R. and the Utah Northern. The former although very much hindered, waiting for iron is steadily progressing, the grade through the point of the mountain will probably be completed in two weeks, and when this giant cut is completed the the grading to Lehi & American Fork is easy. The American Fork Kanyon Rd. is being pushed on rapidly. This is a narrow guage road, the property of English Capitalists having large mining interests in American Fork. The Utah Northern is going ahead with vigor; its connection is made with the Central Pacific at a point 17 miles west of Ogden, and it is built and running passengers and freight some 27miles from that point towards Cache valley, it is considered a great success. The S.L. City street railroad is another recent improvement and is very well patronized. The two latter enterprises are John W. Young's.

Monday was our election day, Elder Geo. Q. Cannon was elected delegate to Congress, Bro. Hooper having requested a release from his labors, which have been very arduous to a person of his temperament. Maxwell is the opposition candidate. The County returns shew 3707 votes for Cannon. 536 for Maxwell. with 4 precincts to be heard from. Other counties not yet reported.

My health continues good, for which I feel very thankful, as is also that of my associates & the people generally, although there is the usual number of deaths among children.

The home missionaries are doing a good deal of preaching throughout the Territory, commonly holding two days meeting at prominent places, which are usually largely attended.

The First Presidency and Twelve have been, and are holding two days meetings as well, which are likely to be productive of good.

You are at liberty to continue your labors where you are. or return home just as you may feel prompted by the Spirit.

Remember me to Bro. Porter and all friends and accept my best wishes for your peace and preservation.

Your Bro. in the Gospel
Brigham Young