Transcript

Transcript for Ursenbach, O., "The Missionaries," Semi-Weekly Telegraph, 23 May 1867, 2

THE MISSIONARIES.
Cache Cave, Head of Echo Kanyon,
May 17, 1867.

EDITOR DAILY TELEGRAPH:

Thus far we have travelled, driving through snow, mud an angry streams, every rivulet being changed into a torrent. Up Emigration kanyon [Canyon] we had in many places to make new roads. We had the misfortune to upset one wagon. The banks of every stream are washed and of dangerous approach. My too great zeal was rewarded by a ducking, caused by a land slide, which carried me into the stream. Otherwise our travel has been very prosperous and we have had all the time very fine weather.

Our whole company is composed of 36 men, of which 17 are missionaries, with 23 wagons, 161 head of cattle and 4 horses. The train is under the care of Adam Sharp, assisted by John and James, sons of Bishop John Sharp. These three men are men of experience and filled with the good spirit.

When our company was completed we organized ourselves and unanimously elected brother Karl G. Maeser as chaplain. We organized our general prayer meetings, and every evening we have testimony meetings. Several of the brethren are good singers and play the concertina, regaling us with sweet strains which sometimes carry us back to our lovely homes.

A good spirit prevails, and I assure you I never travelled with a better set of young men. We have passed Echo. The grandeur and magnificence of nature seems to have vied in imitation of certain canyons of Switzerland.

We have heard of Indian depredations, of stations burned, etc., but these reports are of too trifling consequence to stop us. God is with us, and we have faith that He will protect us and keep the murderous red man out of our path.

Here I give you the names of all the missionaries now in our company.

Karl G. Maeser, O. Ursenbach, James Sharp, John S. Lewis, Marcus Holling, Nephi Pratt, Levi W. Richards, Willard B. Richards, Joel Grover, M. Mortensen, J. H. Johnson, J. Jensen, Geo Reese, Samuel Petersen, C. D. Fjeldsted, O. C. Olsen, Wm. Homer.

We are all well, of good dispositions, filled with the Spirit of God, and trusting ourselves to His kind care, and protection.

Our love to all our friends.
Yours truly,
O. URSENBACH.