Transcript

Transcript for "Correspondence," Deseret News, 5 September 1855, 208

GREEN RIVER, Aug. 17, 1855

EDITOR NEWS—Dear Bro.:—

Permit me to hail you by my express, so near the fat valleys of Ephraim, after an absence of three years. Truly does my heart rejoice in the contemplation of the past, especially when I had myself with the third company of Mormon emigration, safely on the beautiful banks of this crystal stream; hoping soon to see you in connection with my brethren whom I love, once more in the flesh, as well as to enjoy the endearments of my dear family, whom I left only, for the gospel's sake.

Too numerous are the events which have transpired during my voyage of 18,000 miles, to portray at present, but hope to more fully at some future period. Suffice it to say, June 22 I was appointed to take charge of the third company of emigrating Saints; then advanced 60 miles at Oak Point in care of S. M. Blair, Esq., who was severely afflicted and surrounded by dead and dying, for death had reached into their ranks with undaunted firmness.

28d.—Having partaken of the fatted calf, green peas, onions, &c., from the Mormon farm at Mormon Grove, prepared by the hand of our much respected brother, Milo Andrus, for the returning missionaries, as well as those late from the Valley, Capt. Hector Haight and company, which was to me a double feast to meet with and partake of the feast prepared under the commodious bowery in this delightful resting place for gathering Israel; many were my reflections when I took the parting hand of my brethren, who have stood firm in Mormonism in early years, when the artillery of Satan seemed to feel for the foundation of Mormonism, but alas in vain and now going to face a frowning world in defense thereof; then I gazed on the opposite, and beheld those who have faced sneers and scorns, having borne a faithful testimony, for which some have in this enlightened age, suffered imprisonment, but have received sheaves for their hire, and are on their return home, laden with an everlasting joy, that they were counted worthy to suffer this for this Son of Man's sake.

Having taken the parting hand, left with five brethren to the aid of our afflicted camp, passing the graces, from one to three persons in each, speaking loudly of their dreadful fate. Reached camp one o'clock, p.m., next day, having traveled all night, and found about 30 had died, and 25 on sick list, among whom was Elder [Seth M.] Blair. While administering to some of the Saints, as I turned, I saw one man stagger and fall vomiting; I ran and laid hands upon him, and he recovered. This being the first of the terrible destroyer, cholera, I ever witnessed, caused my heart to pain and ask why should the destroyer have so much power to destroy the lives of the gathering Saints. The scene was indescribable. After some arrangements, I moved the camp fifteen miles, and this eve, Satan, not being well pleased, attacked my person with cholera, but took a dose of oil, and through the blessings of the priesthood bid defiance to death, although Elder [Sylvester Henry] Earl, who has proved faithful, after administering, vomited and cramped. I am happy to say, according to promise, death soon left our camp, and we have had good health since, excepting some cases of measles.

Peace and union has prevailed, and I am happy to say that Texans are not the worst people in the world.

Grass is very poor, because of the terrible drouth. I am told by the mountaineers its equal never was found here. I can highly recommend Sendriose [Seminoe] cut off, which is the left hand road, about 6 miles this side of Ice Springs; and as it may be beneficial hereafter, I will give the watering places; first about one mile, a sulphur creek and some grass, but not a desirable place to camp. Five miles to small stream, and tolerable good grass; then 6 miles to a spring and some grass right of road; 12 miles to Sweetwater, good feed, water, and fuel; about 8 miles to Old Road; 10 miles from South Pass the roads are somewhat hilly, but much better than to cross the Devil's Backbone of the Rock mountains and I am informed that Strawberry creek and other streams are dried up, and no water for 25 miles.

As Elder E. Snow has just come to camp, I hasted to forward this, desiring to be remembered to President Young and council. Ever praying for your continued welfare.

I remain, yours in the love of the gospel,

 

EDWARD STEVENSON
[From the Newark Mercury,]