The Brigham Young Center

Great Salt Lake City, March 30th 1854

Dear Brother

Your letter of the 27th inst, is received, and I proceed to explain my views and feelings, in part, in relation to your statement and request.

I find by referring to the books that they were balanced on 12th day of January 1852 by entering a credit to you of $9317.05 for services which labor was receipted to your [?] account as you are aware
However since that time, I find you charged on the books with a balance of $2498.46 2498.46 and balance of credits amounting to $240.
I have directed that you be credited for 8 mo's.
the remainder of your time spent in the office
after the settlement alluded to before leaving
the office to go on your mission to England at
the rate of $1000. per annum, to wit 666.66
Total credits $ 906.66 906.66

Consequently your account Dr. would be 1691.80
In looking over your account of credits I need not tell you I was surprised to find $600 entered to your credit for services as Auditor of Public Accounts, since said settlement, $400 of which I deem should have come in said settlement. Tis true it was appropriated after, but it was for previous services.

Thomas Clayton's account in the office stands $170.37 to his debit altho there have been no credits entered to him since the 5th of last October. Matthew Clayton's account I find as you related

Now bro. William, I do not, neither have I at any time, desired to accuse you wrongfully but wish to have matters fairly understood. I do consider you have taken advantage of my friendship and confidence in many things, one of which was in entering your house account to be balanced in the credit which I gave you.

I have only to add that if you are disposed to sell or mortgage your house and Lot to the Church to balance your account I will try to help you to a team in the trade.

Omitting further allusions in your letter to be explained hereafter by your, I remain,

Sincerely your well wisher, and
brother in the truth.

to Wm Clayton Brigham Young