It is the responsibility of the researcher to obtain any copyright clearances. Permission to publish material from this/these transcript(s) must be obtained from the Supervisor of Reference Services and/or the L. Tom Perry Special Collection Coordinating Committee. [Notes added by transcribers are in square brackets. Dashes in square brackets indicate unclear words or letters. indicate words the author inserted to a previously written line.] MSS 15 – Orson F. Whitney Papers Number of Pages: 3191 ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p001.jpg) Council C. 13th 1881. Bro. Orson:- It was concluded this even- ing that you should make your preparations to start on your mission at your own conven ience. If most convenient to start on Oct 11th, all right. If more convenient to you to start– once or two weeks later, all right. The brethren accord heartily in the idea that you spend from one to six months in the ministry with opportunity to attend confer ences, so far as practicable, and become acquainted with the Eu ropean mission as much as possible before engaging in your duties in the L'pool Office. Wishing you unlimited prosperity and happiness in your mission and praying God to bless you preemently in all your ministrations and labors– I am your brother and friend Jos. F. Smith ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p002.jpg) Councilor O. F. Whitney Present. ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p003.jpg) 3 July 1882 Dear Bro. Whitney Excuse pencil – Nuttall's away - his desk's locked – its blazing hot – and I'm too lazy to hunt up cl cream laid note and a '303". Yours of 17th ult. was received with pleasure this morning. I have enquired of Pres. Taylor regarding the republication of extracts from the "At -onement". His mind is not clear on the point, and he says he will tell me some other day. When he does I will communicate. He was interested in that extract from the Glasgow Times. If you have any other ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p004.jpg) similar notices laying around loose, it would do no harm to send them. She likes to have all such things salted down in lavander for future use, in this world or the next. I will try and send you something more some day: I think of "going back" on the J. I. and Con. They are getting worse. Last week the Instructor made me talk of Palm Trees in the Bay of Jericho. Did you ever hear of such a gulf? I wished the proof reader was there or some where worse when my eye lighted upon it. But I have forgiven him in theexpectation of something worse in the next number ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p005.jpg) I am a man who seldom flatters. Ask Robert, he knows. But I will say that I have much admired your late editorials. those that I have read, which are most of them. Probably I appreciate their poetical inclinations more than the average reader among our ungathered people, as theirs has been, as a rule, too hard a struggle with grim poverty to give them much time to cultivate the graces of poetical thought. It is possible that Mr Robinson may write a book, instead of writing letters to the Telegraph. His communications to the N. Y. world are very interesting, and have excited considerable comment. They are very favorable to the people ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p006.jpg) of Utah. Give my regards to your, (to our I should say,) intimate associate R.R.A. We miss his caustic reflections on men and things, but our loss is your gain. Your father and the rest of the staff are as usual; nothing new, nothing startling disturbs the even tenor of their ways. We are waiting developments. It is probable the Commission will not be here for a month yet. We are not wearying for this coming, nor do we dread their approach. Yours Fraternally, Geo. Reynolds ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p007.jpg) SALT LAKE CITY CORPORATION, TREASURER'S OFFICE. Salt Lake City, October 6, 1885. Hon. C. S. Zane, Chief Justice, Utah Territory. Sir: The Salt Lake Tribune of this date says that in my "harangue" Sunday evening, I alluded to you as "The beast of the Third Judicial District". The Salt Lake Tribune lies, as usual. Much as I differ from you, and dislike your methods, I would no more think it right to call you a "beast", than I thought it right for you to call the wives of Bishop H. B. Clawson "concubines" and his children "bastards". Respectfully, (Signed) Orson F. Whitney. ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p008.jpg) McCORNICK & CO. BANKERS SALT LAKE CITY UTAH Apl 25 1882 Mr O. J. Whitney 42 Islington, Liverpool, England Dear Ort. Your favor of Feby 18th, enclosing a contributor article, & your letter in extense of men 2d both reached me in due season: the article was handed June in prompt time, and I suppose has been seen in print before this: Eb. Brain was one of the first paid by the news leo. per statement which I sent to Zine. and which I supposed she had transmitted to you. The due bill for $19 and some cents which I told you in my last had been issued by the News in settlement of your a/c. was sashed by me during ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p009.jpg) our late performances: I have held the amount till I could hear from you & fine in relation to 2 bills : one from Morris, which I enclose herewith, and the other ($7.50) from Asmussen, which I shall pay under Zines instructions ; this leaves about $11,80 of yours in my possession. The Conference season of theatricals has engrassed nearly all my attention for the last month, — which will account for the delay in answering your letters : the season was only a fair one for us, as the most incessant storms visited every night during the week except one, and that one was held by the combination : the dates were arranged this time by "tossing up", the most equitable way, and the preference was gained by the other side ; they got the 6 & 8th, and we the 5 & 7th ; their plays were Our American Cousin & Green ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p010.jpg) McCORNICK & CO. BANKERS Salt Lake City, Utah______188 Bushes, and I am free to say that they were the cleverest things the combination has yet done : Our shows consisted of Boarding House & Saratoga, and our gross receipts amounted to $1300, each member's profits $80 : the other side's receipts were $1700 – $1175 of which came in on the good night I have told you of. We should have rendered Insha[---] during that week – or on the 10th– but preferred taking a 30% share of Oscar Wilde to running in opposition to him : in presenting that celebrated fraud we made the sum of $1065 between six of us. We have lately been run to death with foreign shows but as there is a lull at present we shall ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p011.jpg) probably revive [-]ushavogue at once; that may form the subject of my next communication, though you must not look for one of the old time hits : Dell's taking the leading lady, and Spencer's absence from the cast can not but materially impair it. What think you of the plan of ballotting for choice of characters? Since Culiver resigned, this has been our custom, and we find it works quite satisfactorily : each number then has the solace of Knowing - whatever may be his part - that it is the Club which has cast him the proceedings being secret. No one is supposed to know how his neighbor has voted, and if one votes for himself as the principal in a cast, it is equally unknown: You will see that we gain one big advantage in this way — that we boys can check either of our soubrettes in their mad desires ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p012.jpg) McCornick & Co. BANKERS Salt Lake City, Utah 188 to jump into the lead; and they take it much better than they would if they were cast by a committee. Since my last letter Grandma Whitney and Sister Smoot have both breathed their last; all details of their death you will have received from other correspondents; and I will say no more than that the example of grandma seems to have been entirely thrown away on her unregenerate sons; their condition is, if possible more degraded than ever; Josh has fallen even below the level of Orson; Carl manifests no change; John, when he visits the city, easily falls into their ways, though his conduct during his mothers illness ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p013.jpg) was most exemplary; the head of the house - the eldest brother, I say it reluctantly, is no more steadfast in his determinations, and his lapses of late have been more frequent than ever. Z Zine, as you must know, took her mothers death very hard: I sent ma & Jen down for a few days visit at the time of the funerals, and I have no doubt their presences did her a great deal of good: they could not induce her to return with them, and I suppose by this time, judging from the tone of a recent letter, that she is becoming reconciled. Ching is reported as a strapping youngster, hearty and mischievous. All the boys and girls are as usual, and unite in desiring to be remembered to you. Rule is expected back from New Mexico shortly : Heeb is housekeeping again, and now gets $125 a month. Kimball goes to Wood River, to assume charge of the branch there: I succeed to his toils present salary $100 - Truly Yours Bud ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p014.jpg) PRESIDENT'S OFFICE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS P.O. BOX B. Salt Lake City, U.T. May 21st 1882 Elder Orson F. Whitney 42 Islington, L'pool Eng. Mey Dear Brother Orson: Your very welcome and pleasing letter of May 2d was recd in the 19th, I must say bro. Orson that I was a little surprised at its contents, but very much pleased and gratified therewith. For some time past an appreh- =ension had rested on my mind that you were more or less displeased with me for an expression I once made to bro. David John, of Provo, abo-ut you, before you were married; which I have every reason to believe immediately went to your ears. But your letter had removed it. I often speak thoughtlessly, and on reflection regret it. The circumstance referred to was an offhand, thoughtless remark, and I regretted it the moment it escaped me, but it was too late to recall it, as such things always are, and so I determined if ever I had a chance, or saw a proper occasion I would acknowledge my fault to you and make it right. Premising that you know to what I allude, I will not name it here, but leave it where it is, feeling that I am forgiven. If there is any thing I detest it is saying in ones absence what I would refrain from saying in his presence; and ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p015.jpg) my sentiment is, no man can offend or insult me without he intends to do so. Be assured that no such intent ever entered my heart toward you. I thank you sincerely for the cordial and hearty friendship and brotherly love so beautifully express, in your letter, towards me. I could not doubt the genuineness of your expr- essions, for they meet a most hearty and genial response from my own heart, and I sincerely prize them, and will cherish your confidence and friendship forme steadfastly and return them with a true brothers love. We will regard each other as brothers, I may be the eldest, but you, in many resp- ects, the most favored nature and opportunity. I boast of no gifts but those of an honest heart and an earnest and humble desire for the triumph of Gods great Latterday Work. You have all this and rair gifts of mind and tongue be- sides. God give you you the strength and wisdom, bro. Orson, for ever to use your talents and all the gifts of God within you for the salvation of man, in the bright channels which He has designated. I would see you combine the integrity and fidelity of your grandfather Heber [C.], the faith and charity of your grandfather Newel L. all the good and noble qualities of your loving mother, and the inspiration of them all, with your own superior advantages to make a noble, glorious mark in this gos- pel dispensation. This road his before you. Walk ye in it. It is "the Strait and narrow way!" I heartily endorse your sentiments respecting congeniality of Spirits. Our knowledge of persons & things before we came here, combined with the divinity ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p016.jpg) PRESIDENT'S OFFICE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS P. O. BOX B. Salt Lake City U. T. 188 awakened within our souls, thro' obedience to the gospel powerfully afflicts, in my opinion, all our likes and dis- likes, and guides our preferences in the course of this life, pro- vided we give careful heed to the admonitions of the spirit. All those salient truthes which come home so forcibly to the head and heart, seem but the awakening of the memo- ries of the spirit. Can we know anything here that we did not know before we came? are not the means of knowledge in the first estate equal to those of this? [I think that [the spirit before and after this probation possesses greater facilities, age manifold greater, for the aquisition of knowledge than while manicled and shut up in the prison house of mortality. Had we not known before we came the necessity of our coming, the importance of obtaining tabernacles, the glory to be achieved in posterity, the grand object to be attained by being tried and tested, - weighed in the balance, in the exercise of the divine atributes, god-like powers and free-agency with which we are endowed, whereby, after descending below all things, Christ- like, we might ascend above all things and become like our Father, Mother, and elder brother - Almighty and Eternal, we never would have come!] that is if we could have stayed away. I believe that our ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p017.jpg) Savior is the ever-living example to all flesh in all these things. He no doubt possessed a fore knowledge of all the vicissitudes thro' which he would have to pass in the mortal tabernacle, when the foundations of this earth were laid and the "morning stars sang together for Joy."] When he conversed with the brother of Jared on the mount in his spiritual body he understood his mission, and knew the work he had to do, as thoroughly as when he ascended from the mount of Olives, and the wondering gaze of the Jewish Disciples, with his resurrected, glorious and immortal body. And yet to accomplish the ultimatum of his previous existance and consummate the grand and glorious object of his being, and the salvation of his infinite brotherhood he had to come and take upon him flesh. [He is our example! The works he did, we are commanded to do. We are enjoined to follow him as he followed his head. Than where he is we may be also. and being with him may be like him. If Christ knew before hand, So did we! But in coming here we forgot all, that our agency might be free indeed to chose good or evil, that we might merit the reward of our own choice and conduct. But by the power of the Spirit in the redemption of Christ, thro' obedience, we often catch a spark from the awakened memories of the immortal soul which lights up our whole being as with the glory of our former home.] I must close. All is well so far as I know. Orson, be prayerful and humble, we must be aware of the leven of the world, vanity or pride. We have but put on the armor, we will boast, —if we do so at all—when we shall have con- quered and can take it off, And even then we will glory in the power, might, majes- ty and dominion of God- not man. Pray for me. God bless you. I am truly &c. Jos. F. Smith ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p018.jpg) Mc Cornick & Company, Bankers SUCCESSORS TO WHITE & McCORNICK Salt Lake, Utah Aug 23d 1882 Mr. OF Whitney 42 Islington, Liverpool, Eng Dear Or[-] Your letter of May 13th reached me in due season, and now lies before me; I have also received your gentle reminder of a recent date, and the enclosure of the newspaper clipping. As you say nothing of the matter, perhaps you may not have heard that I had my wrist broken on May 30th, while the Home Dramatic Club was performing Queens Evidence in Ogden : that constitutes my principal excuse for tardiness in answering your letter : when my arm began to get half strong again, which was only a short time ago, I thought I would wait till our performances of Blow for Blow was over, to tell you something about that : when that had passed, I thought you might want ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p019.jpg) to know something of the opening of our meeting house and so postponed my letter till after that event : and so I kept putting it off waiting for a favorable opportunity: the other day, I had to take a trip on business to Provo: before that I had had my yearly out to Cottonwood, and all these things over with, I am now filled with determination to discharge my indebtedness, and with ample interest. To speak first of business: you will remember that after paying the enclosed bill of 7.50 to Asmussen, that I had 11.80 of yours left in my possession: Morris stated emphatically that your [--] had never been eng'd up to Taft, but that it had always stood against you on the books: as he stated too that Taft was very slippery. I have little doubt that you were taken in by him. When you handled him The $10 bill: so ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p020.jpg) McCornick & Company, Bankers SUCCESSORS TO WHITE & MCCORNICK Salt Lake, Utah, 187 There was nothing for it, but to settle the bill, which I did by obtaining $2.50 from Zine to make up the balance; this closes all matters of that kind which I have held for you: Morris' bill is enclosed herewith, receipted Perhaps you would prefer to hear it once or twice and the large and increasing family: I had time to spend most of one day with Zine, on the occasion of my late visit there, and I may say that I found everything about as you could wish it Zine herself looks well, and after she had recovered from the agitation which my appearance caused her, [-]acked, looked, and acted quite as she used to do -- Ching was the occasion of the utmost pleasure to my, I assure you: he has developed into one of those cute, stamping, rollicsome sort of youngsters, that are always ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p021.jpg) tumbling about without getting hurt he is as sturdy on his legs as any colt you could conceive of: he is just beginning to chatter a little and it is the delight of the household to listen to and attempt to translate his unintelligibility I left him with a good deal of reluctance, I can tell you. The other member of the family I cant tell much of, except at this period of his life his principal characteristics are a very white head, large ears, and a generally strong aspect- he was reported thriving by the one best able to judge - his mother. been remarried down there, and will stay for a week or two: some members of the family are back & forth continually, so that it is less lonesome for her than you might think. The Home Dramatic Club has done nothing that could be called worthy of report during the past summer - We did create a stir in Ogden with Queens Evidence- despite Burton ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p022.jpg) McCornick & Company, Bankers SUCCESSORS TO WHITE & MCCORNICK. Salt Lake, Utah 187 in Sir Richard Warburton, and besides having a good deal of fun, made $15 apiece beside - not bad for a one nights performances . Inshavo[--] waswhat I told you it would be with Tayler. Urlton & Dell in principal parts -- a success that was damned withfaint fraise: it is of the Aurah Ma Bogus cast, but better I think than any of those old pieces: I think it would make a good Conference piece, and if Spencer could be got to tackle the villain which is unlikely we would probably put it on during the coming conference. Blow for Blow was more of a success, but still too much of the bygone days native , to please audiences that had seen us in in Pigue BauRees Daughters & Saratoga Ada Dwyer lent some to the success, though - for all that you may have heard to the contrary - she is not ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p023.jpg) one to rouse an audience into enthusiasm you perhaps remember the piece, one of Graham's favorites - his character being Charley Spraggs - the man with a "biceps" - Heeb far outshone Graham in this, and as usual, made the hit of the evening: Spencer came much, in the character of John Drummand, Lindsay and Waldro's old character: Cummings was simply execrable: there having been no leulmer to correct him at rehearsals, he pleaged that night just as he had rehearsed, and was inaudible to the stage boxes: Dave Dunbar did excellently as Dr. Grace, and came in for favorably mention: he will be a great help to us in filling minor important characters. Bid, who is settled down here, we count some in for the future and intend giving him an opportunity to show himself in our conference productions You will have heard of the opening of our new house, and how the building looks from the Herald and news. I will only say that it is the cosiest place of the kind in the city, and all the ward feel justly proud of it. we are holding Sunday School and meeting ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p024.jpg) McCornick & Company, Bankers. SUCCESSORS TO WHITE & McCORNICK. Salt Lake, Utah 187 there regularly now; the dedicatory services will take place when the place is entirely finished and paid for, which I think will be speedily, as there are only a few such items as the stone steps & Chandelier remaining, and the debt is only a few hundred dollars. The usual crowd passed a week in Cotton- -wood this year, remaining at the hotel instead of camping out - had the most gorgeous time imaginable - Heeb. Spencer, and myself, with perhaps Rule, intend building a shanty up there next season, so that we shall always have a place to which to repair during the heated term: There is no item of news to relate about our immediate crowd: Kimball is still in Wood River, and in a recent letter mentions that the Nellie Boyd lee -- with H B Emery as leading man -- ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p025.jpg) were billed for 4 performances - Lieut Young and Hattie have married and are settled in West Point by this tiem - And Clawson and Florence Dinwoodey stepped off last week, and Dick & Nervie follow suit next month Rule still tarries in Mexico, but I think will be up to surely (this time) carry off Joar during the coming fall Heeb has postponed answering your letter so long that he only hesitates now form positive shame - so he says - I think if you want to hear from him, that a brief line in reminder would fetch a letter. Have you ever called on Bro Maibens' brother & He seems anxious to have you. Will if you are as tired of reading as my hand is cramped with writing, you will have had enough: I will close for the present wishing you continued prosperity success. Yours sincerely, H G Whitney Bro Cannon wished me to tell [--]ne that he was much interested in your star articles, I suppose you will not be sorry to hear of it too. ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p026.jpg) PRESIDENT'S OFFICE, Salt Lake City, Utah, May 22, 1888. Bishop Orson F. Whitney, Dear Brother: Your esteemed favor of the 18th. inst., informing me of the progress that you are making in preparing the manuscript of the life of your grandfather, the late President Heber C. Kimball, has been received and perused with in- terest. I am glad that steps have been taken to prepare his life. It is one that will be read with profit by all Latter-day Saints and will be encouraging to our young men. Your grandfather was a mighty man in bringing people to a knowledge of the truth, and the Lord crowned his labors with great success. The record the labors of the faithful Elders should be preserved in the memories of the people of God. You mention the names of Brother Moses Thatcher and Brother George Reynolds as two brethren who in your opinion would be suitable to go through the work with you before it is published. I see no objection to either or both of them; but Brother Moses Thatcher, I scarcely think, is in a position to do anything this kind at the present time. He is not in the city now and is not likely to be, as the are duties which he has to attend to that will necessarily require his absence for some time. Brother Reynolds is here, and any arrangement that you and he can make to read the manuscript together will be agreeable to me, and any person whom you two decide upon to ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p027.jpg) assist you in this work, in the place of Brother Thatcher, I shall not object to. With kind regards, and praying the Lord to bless you in your labors, I remain, Your Brother, Wilford Woodruffu ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p028.jpg) Salt Lake City Corporation, TREASURER'S OFFICE Salt Lake City, July 6 1886 President John Taylor Dear Brother: I have been moved upon_ I believe by the Spirit of the Lord_ to prepare a little work for publication to be entitled "Mormon Poets and Poetry". My design is to further illustrate the views embodied in my lecture on "Poets and Poetry", delivered in the 14th Ward before the teacher's Institute on June 23rd, and published in the "Herald" of this city Sunday June 27th. The plan of the work, so far as digested, is to present choice selections from the sayings and writings of the prophets and poets of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; such as will serve to illustrate the poetry- i.e. the beauty, grandeur and ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p029.jpg) sublimity of our holy faith, with the view not only of attracting the attention of strangers to the higher aspects of "Mor- monism", which the world is so prone to overlook, or rather under-look, but also to awaken an interest and zeal, wherever needed, in the minds of my young brethren and sisters, and perhaps some older ones, touching those exalted, enno- bling and inspiring themes which only the Gospel of Christ presents. I desire to include some of my own writings - such as are suitable for a work of this description_ and to cull, with the permission of their authors, choice gems from the writings of all the poets the Church has produced. The ground_ work of the volume will be laid in the choice sayings of the Prophets, from Joseph down to this day, with cullings from the Words of the ancients, such as Enoch and ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p030.jpg) Salt Lake City Corporation, TREASURER'S OFFICE Salt Lake City, ..........2......188 Abraham, translated by the Prophet Joseph Smith and relating to the work of the Latter days. As this design will embrace some of your own utter_ ances and writings, and as I de_ sire to have your blessing and sanc_ tion upon my labors, I now write asking your consent to undertake this work under your blessing and approv_ al. Of course I shall assume all ex_ pense in the premises, and risk com ing out even financially. I feel con fident that the Lord, whose Spirit I believe has prompted me to write to you, will see safely through. With kindest regards and constant prayers for your welfare and happiness, I am faithfully Your Brother in the Gospel Orson F. Whitney ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p031.jpg) Letter of O.F.W. to Pres John Taylor on "Mormon Poets and Poetry" -- This letter was never sent ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p032.jpg) In Exile Aug. 4th 1886 Bro. Orson F. Whitney My Dear Brother Orson It is with genuine pleasure that I acknowledge the receipt of your interesting and welcome favor of June 4th which came to hand July 8th. I should have answered it sooner but for the lack of time at the last sailing of the Steamer, and for still ano- ther reason, that is, a dearth of anything interesting to com- municate. I thank you and our mutual friends, thro. you, for their kind remembrance of me. I would again be pleased to convey to them an expression of my sincere regard and earnest best wishes. I also thank bro. Orson, for the warm friendship expressed in your letter toward me, to say that it is reciprocal, even from the depths of my soul, would be but family expressing my real feelings. with no desire but to assure you of my friendship, permit me to say, that I regard you with no ordinary feelings of brotherly affection. I read with heartfelt pleasure and satisfaction the emanations of your lips and pen, not more so for the talant and ability displaced, I assure you, than for the true gospel spirit and wisdom breathed throughout, and involunt- arily the earnest prayer of my heart goes out to heaven make you ever good and true and great. I would not flatter you for wealth or honor, I don't believe in it, I despise it. Therefore it is no flattery to say that I admire your humility as much as I do the ability with wh- ich God has blessed you, and I pray that your gifts may shine out brighter and purer until the perfect day and you, with all you are and have, be devoted to ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p033.jpg) Pres Jos F. Smith great last Cause, until all that has been predicted or designed concerning it shall be realized, and the faithful be exalted and crowned with honor and truth, before God. God help you and be your unceasing friend and make you mighty in his hand. You are young, gifted, favored and richly blessed. I see a bright path and a glorious future before you, and with the continued smiles of Heaven upon you and the Good Spirit to direct your efforts what may not do for the cause of Zion. x For my own part I feel that I have been favored and blessed more than I deserve. I am only proud of one thing that I possess in the line of duty - and that is, an earnest desire to see the king- dom roll, and to keep pace with its onward progress. I have passed what must be the far greater part of my life in a humble effort to sustain, defend and participate in the developement of Zion. By the help and boundless mercy of my heavenly Father, up to date I can look all mankind in the face with a conscience clear of intended wrong or evil, and only mourn my inab- ility to do what I would like, or ought to do for the welfare of mankind. For the prayers and faith of the saints I am deeply grateful. Nothing would do me more good than to be able to serve for their sake to the uttermost, far beyond what it is possible for me to do. I am joyful and happy to witness the growth of faith and intellig- ence among the youth of Israel, and I am corres- pondingly grieved to see any of them fall away from the right path. I note with pleasure the develope- ment and spirit of bro. James Talmage of Provo, and of others taught under the benign influence of of bro. Carl G. Maeser. His name never comes to my mind but it meets there the uprising benisons of my heart. I would to God ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p034.jpg) published in the Faith promoting series, and more than once the taps to the fountain of my tears were turned and my sympathy and love for him, and his family, associates, and the infant Cause of Zion flowed out like grateful cooling streams. On this score I am in strict accord with our beloved mothers, sisters and wives, I like a "good cry," it so lifts up cheers and brightens the soul. You must excuse me therefore for confessing one of my many weaknesses. But the lessen I drew from the integrity of that noble man, the divine inspiration of whose prophetic said sparkles and shines throughout all his public life, was the lessen of faith, and confidence in God and His Latter day work. And I felt how justly proud of him should they be who have discended form his loins, and how is it possible for them to depart from the grand principles and noble example of his life. Bro. Orson, while I have the utmost confidence in you, love you for your integrity, admire your bright gifts, and pray for you and all the youthful hosts of Israel, believe me that the kindliest wish of my heart and my most earnest desire for you is that you may be as true and as strong for the right, and as determined, to the death, in the glorious work we are engaged in as your Grandfather Heber C. Kimball was. I loved him as a father, and I think he loved me as a son. God help us to be as true as he. Give my kind love to your Mother, _I read with pleasure her writings in the Exponent. May the Lord mercifully preser- ve her long, to continue her labors for good, and may she never lack. Also remember me kindly to your Aunt Mary, to your brother Horace, and to all of my dear friends not forgetting, bros. Patrick, Barton, (who wrote me) Heber M. W. Mayor Armstrong, and my old friends of the City Council. I am looking with good hopes & pleasure on Young Judge Pyper, Love to him, & all & believe me ever faithful J. F. S. ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p035.jpg) that we had thousands of Karl G. Maesers in the ranks of Israel. I wish I could say as much for all the teachers of the University of Deseret. I con- gratulate you on being the Regent. It seemes that our traditional for Cullum is determined to turn that institution over into the hands of our enemies. God grant he may be thwarted in some way. I was greatly pleased with the oration of Joseph A. West, at Ogden, on the National birthday. The celebration of that day, last month, was certainly a gre- at constrast to that of the previous year. Then the trustful instincts of O. H. Powers overshadowed the day, and he perpetuated one of the grossest indignities upon Apostle Moses Thatcher simply for his telling a moiety of the truth, well befitting the circumstances of the people of Utah, on that occasion. But I do not hold this infamous Creature alone responsible for the insult for in my opinion it was divided between him and portion of the people of Ogden. Therefore I was pleased to see home talant- far superior in every respect in every respect - hold the reins there on the last celebration. The remarks of John M. Young, at Liberty Park in response to the toast, "Utah past, present and future," rang with a cery un- certain sound, but I was a little surprised at his mod- erate tone, and withal grieved at the position he occupies. O, why showed the sons of veteran patriarchs and High Priests, Apostles and Prophets, tarnish the venerated names of their faithful Sires? I could not express my gratitude that, in heart and mind, I am in perfect sym- pathy with those honored dead, and I am quite satisfied that my position is as safe as theirs- aye to my mind there is no comparison. (I refer to apostate boys). But the other day I read again your honored granfathers journal ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p036.jpg) June 19th 1887 Bp. Orson F. Whitney Salt Lake City My Dear Brother Orson Your welcome favor of May 18th came to hand may 31st for which please accept my thanks. As you have been let into a Secret, I may safely say to you in confidence, that I hope you may not find it eith er a duty or a pleasure to address me another letter to this place. About my coming- or returning home however is another thing of which I am not so cer tain about, or have not so much hope for. However I am, and trust ever will be in the hands of the Lord to do with, and direct as seemeth good to him. I should certainly feel grateful for the privilege of returning home, and have by no means relinquished the hope that I will do so in the Lords due time. I have seen but little opening for that, as yet. It is gratifying to realize that a feeling is beginning to grow in Zion, that the back of the crusade-Camel is partially broken; and that light is beginning to find ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p037.jpg) its welcome way through rifts in the dark cloud of persecution and hostile power which has lowered upon us for three years past. And I venture the sincere hope that the grounds for such feeling are well taken. There may be many who cann- -ot realize the joy some of us will feel on being released from Exile and bonds and prisons, but I do not count you one of them. I think you are capable of grasping the situation, notwithstanding you have, so far at least, escaped the scourge. Pers- sonally I have no regrets, and no complaints to make. My lot could not have been more peaceful and safe and quiet, under the circumstances, than it has been. Still these I cout but small gain, in such a strife. I cannot but feel somewhat like a tender house plant, reared in the shade and shielded from the stormes, and therefore unprepared for rude and trying events, should they come. But so long as God in his inscruitable providence has willed it so, I bow to his will, and hope I may gather strength as I may need it in the future to endure whatever may come. I do not look for smoothe seas and pleasant sailing yet for a little while, and perhaps no more in my my time, yet should I live to see it I will hail with delight "the good time coming". It will come. I had heard of the removal of Dickson, and the prospective removal of Zane, but not of the decapitation of McKay & Varian. I hope by this time the whole gang of them are officially defunct, "for good and always". Such a clearing, I think could not fail to produce relief to the breaking organs of a few of the oppressed. I sincerely pray that Pres. Taylors' life may be spared to enjoy the freedom you anticipate, but I have been fearfully impressed on this subject of late. I would very much like to see him again; and all the brethren. The irrepressible Kate Field seems like Banguo's ghost, She "will not down". But she has grappled with more than her match this time, and it is only a question of time when the great little Col. will find itself floored. I think it very prudent not to notice her. Sister Wells has my warmest sympathy in her deep sorrows. Many an one could never have borne the burden of grief so cruel_ ly fallen upon her. Nor could she, I fear, if she had had to bear it alone. Surely the love of God and the heart-felt sympathy of hosts of true friends have helped to sustain her. I have felt condemned that ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p038.jpg) I did not long ago, add to the kind assurances of others the small comfort an expression of my inmost sympathy would give. but I have neglected to do so, yet I have not ceased to uphold her in my faith. I would be pleased if you would say to her for me, from the heart- God bless and comfort her- and prolong her life and labors. The test oath business, will no doubt develope some funny things. I understand that some of the brethren who have never dreamed of violating the law have strong conscientious scruples about taking it. No doubt they are glad of some opportun- ity vindicate their faith in plural marriage. The re-dis- tricting of the Territory, is a most glaring, blistering shame upon its perpetrators. But it posseses one merit- no attempt is made to disguise their infamous purpose. I received the invitation to the family re-union of Pres. H. C. Kimballs family, but I did not know from whom it came. Please accept my thanks. I wish- however fruitless- I could have been present. I conveyed your message to sister Susa. She desires a warm remembrance. I thank you for your valued letter, and if I am not permitted to enjoy a closer communion, I hope you will continue, as you can, to correspond. Sincerely yours, J. F. Smith ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p039.jpg) New York June 23rd 1887 Dear Bro. Whitney I have read with a great deal of pleasure your eloquent truthful and forceful speech as Chancellor of our University a report of which app -ears in the Herald of the 17th inst. You don't know how proud it makes me feel, to see a firm and true latter day saint youth vanquish the greatest among the Philistines – for you did that; their Wests and their Williams had better hide their dimished heads for you "paled their ineffectual fires." May God continue his blessings to you and may you continue your humility and increase it. Faithfully Your Bro. and admirer, C.W. Nibley ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p040.jpg) C. W. Nibley ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p041.jpg) Salt Lake City July 11th 1887 To The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Laterday Saints I attended Meeting at the Tabernacle yesterday (Sunday) and heard Bro O F. Whitney preach and was strongly impressed that he was the proper person to fill the va[-]cency in the Quorum of the Twelve A[-]postles. I therefore sugest him for the position hoping it is the will of the Lord and your good pleasure that he be ordained a member of the Quorum of the Twel[-] You Brothe in the Gosple Church of Jesus Christ of Later day Saints [line illegible] ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p042.jpg) B. Y. Hampton July/87 Handed to me by Bro. Hampton while I was City Treasurer I chided him for sending the letter of which this is a copy -O.F.W ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p043.jpg) Painesville .Ohio March 3rd, '89. Dear Cousin I have been thinking every day for a week, I will surely write to my Salt Lake Cousin today, but some way the spirit of procrastination always gets possession of one when I have a letter to write. I wish to thank you for the gift that came to us through Howard, shall value them highly as kind tokens of remembrance, I have been able to keep quite well informed about you through the years that have passed since your visit to us, by the papers that you have sent and the occasional visits of friends ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p044.jpg) and have always rejoiced at the reports of your prosperity. For myself the years pass quietly and pleasantly along with a kind husband and dear little daughter. But we would like very much to have the monotony broken by a visit from some western cousins. don't Bishops and their families ever travel eastward? We enjoyed a very pleasant call from Mrs Wells a few years ago. I have not seen Howard yet, was not at home when he called. I am anxious to see him and hear all about his trip and visit, and friends. I would like very much to have pictures of yourself and family. we have a very pretty one of your wife sent just after you were married, but none of yourself or little boy. my husband is acquainted with you by reputation and I want him to see how you look. I am afraid you think I have not appreciated your kindness in sending papers, never acknowledging the receipt of them, but indeed I have, and hope you will continue the kindness, and if any thing ever happens to us will I will remember you in a similar manner. We all unite in sending regards and best wishes to yourself and family. Most Truly Yours Nellie E. Reynolds. ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p045.jpg) 11 Lavender Grove Queens Road Dalston London N. E. Jan 18th 1890 Bishop Orson F. Whitney Salt Lake City. Dear Brother, Will you please forward to me as soon as Convenient a copy of your Poetical Works, which I see from my late paper has just been issued from the press. I have always been an ardent Admirer of your writings so far as I am acquainted with them, and feel anxious to have your works in Book form. You will probably be somewhat surprised to hear from me, my long exile from ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p046.jpg) home will no doubt have caused some of my acquaintances to forget me entirely, but be this as it may, I am still Alive, and well, and feel thankful to my Heavenly Father; for His mercies to me, and rejoice to be still laboring for the establishment of His righteous purposes. My family are all in good health, also myself and my Fellow laborers in the London Conference. Many of those who were here when you were, have gone to Zion. others have Apostatized and some still remain. One of your old friends Sister Atkinson, is here still, but in different Circumstances entirely to what She was. She has lost every thing She owned and is in deep distress and poverty having hard work to get food sufficient for Herself and family. There are but two Branches in London. North London and ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p047.jpg) Whitechapel at the former we have an attendance at meeting of about fourty, and at the latter about 20. 19 missionaries are employed in different parts of the Conference striving the Gospel-but they meet with very little encouragement, only 46 souls having been baptized during the past year. When you send your book please direct to Joseph Leaing, 11 Lavender Grove Ve as per head of letter, the enclosed Money Order for 6/Q or $1.50 in American Money is sent by Joseph Leaing, and is made payable to Orson F. Whitney. I have always almost forgotten my own name, and sign it here for about the first time during the past three years. please burn this letter, with best wishes for your welfare and ever praying for the good of Zion. I remain your Brother in the Gospel Joseph W. McMurrin ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p048.jpg) MANAGING COMMITTEE. The Salt Lake Opera Co. WILLARD E. WEIHE, DIRECTOR. JOHN D. SPENCER. H. S. GODDARD. GEORGE D. PYPER. H. G. WHITNEY, MANAGER. Salt Lake City, May 9 1890 Dear Art. I have $100- lying in the bank which I have no immediate use for, a year hence would do me as well as now. Can you use it in the meantime? If so, you are welcome to it. Yours Bud. Check herewith. ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p049.jpg) Date of Lily's $300. at 6 per cent, loan July 10, 1897 $6. interest paid in Nov./97. ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p050.jpg) OFFICE OF The First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints P.O. Box B. Salt Lake City, Utah Nov. 27th, 1891. Orson F. Whitney Esq. City. Dear Sir: We would like you to meet with us and a number of other friends at our office,at I2 o'lock noon,on Tuesday,Dec.<8th>Ist,you having been selected as one of a committee to take in charge the erection of a statue of the late President Brigham Young. A prompt attendance is respectfully requested. Yours truly, Wilford Woodruff Geo. Q. Cannon Jos. F. Smith ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p051.jpg) First Presidency Nov. 1891 ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p052.jpg) Heber J. Grant, President George Romney, Vice Prest. Rulon S. Wells, Secy. H.G. Whitney, Asst. Secy. L.S. Wells, Treas. Home Fire Insurance Company OF UTAH. Directors: Directors: John R. Barnes CAPITAL,$ 250,000.00 FULLY PAID Thos. G.Webber, Elias A. Smith, HEBER J. GRANT & CO., GENERAL AGENTS. Chas. S. Burton, Henry Dinwoodey, 20-26 MAIN ST. HOME BUILDING. David Eccles, Joseph F. Smith, UTAH LITHO. CO. P.T. Farnsworth, John C. Cutter, Francis M. Lyman, John Henry Smith, Salt Lake City, 189 Fe. 18, 1896. Mr. O. F. Whitney, Logagn, Utah. Dear Or[-],- Yours of the 12th at hand and the matter you referred to will have attention. We have all been surprised and pained to hear that you were sick and that Margaret had had an accident. It really looks as though the Lord chasteneth those he loved or that you were born under an unlucky star. However I hope you will not be discouraged but brace up and be determined to fight fate harder than ever. You will be pleased to learn that Miss Rebecca Warren, leading lady of the Grand, whom I regard as one of the most talented actresses we ever had here, was highly charmed with your lecture which she heard you deliver in the tabernacle. She says she felt like crying "bravo" for your effort. M<--->ale and the children unite in sending regards. Yours truly, H G Whitney ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p053.jpg) H. G. Whitney Feb 18, 1896 ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p054.jpg) PRESIDENT'S OFFICE, Brigham Young College. Logan, Utah, June 11, 1896. This certifies that Bishop Orson F. Whitney has been engaged since last January as Professor of Theology and Philosophy in the Brigham Young College. I take great pleasure in recommending Professor Whitney as a scholar and a man of integrity and great ability. His work in the College has been entirely satisfactory. W.J.Kerr, Pres. ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p055.jpg) Heber J. Grant, President. George Romney, Vice Prest. H.G. Whitney, Secretary L.S. Hills, Treas. Home Fire Insurance Company. Directors: OF UTAH. Directors: John R. Barnes, CAPITAL $ 250,000.00 FULLY PAID Thos. G. Webber, Elias A. Smith, HEBER J. GRANT & CO., GENERAL AGENTS. Chas. S. Burton, Henry Dinwoodey, 20-26 MAIN ST. HOME BUILDING. David Eccles, Joseph F. Smith, P.T. Farnsworth, John C. Cutter, Salt Lake Litho & Eng. Co. Francis M. Lyman, John Henry Smith, Salt Lake City, April 29, 1897. Mr. O. F. Whitney, Logan, Utah. Dear Ort:- I was pleased to receive yours of the 25th., and have made the corrections requested. My only fear is that the musicians who have started in to compete, may have taken the first announcement contain- ing the error. However if this should be the case, we can have them corrected before the music is finally printed. I too, am pleased that the Commission selected your poem. I am frank to say that in the course of a long and exhaustive search for suitable words, I found nothing that anywhere near touched yours. With regards toyour folks, I am, Yours truly, H G Whitney ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p056.jpg) H. G. Whitney April 29 /97 ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p057.jpg) United States Court, DISTRICT OF UTAH. Salt Lake City, April 29th 1896 Professor O. F. Whitney Logan Dear Sir; Your letter of the 28th inst. is received _ The statute exempts from jury service "a teacher in a college, acad- emy or school." You fall within the exemption. You need not trouble your- self to appear for the purpose of claiming the Exemption but you may treat This letter as an author- ity to disregard the subpoena- Yours truly, John A. Marshall ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p058.jpg) Judge Marshall April 29/96 ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p059.jpg) Department of Languages. B. Y. College. WESTON VERNON, A. B., B. PD. Logan, Utah, Nov. 17, 1896 Bishop O. F. Whitney, Dear Brother and Friend:- At a meeting of your Theology class this morning the deepest sympathy was expressed for you in your very sad and recent be- reavement. We knew so little about your mother and yet we all felt that she was so good and so very dear to you! We were thankful for the little incident you related to us not long ago, illustrating her perfect childlike trust in God, when she was yet a little girl, and this seemed to tell us so very much about her. I was not commissioned to bear you this news. In fact it was felt and so expressed that ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p060.jpg) Department of Languages. B. Y. College. WESTON VERNON, A. B., B. PD. Logan, Utah, 189 our sympathy needed no physical transmission, but that somehow, in some way it would be felt by you- that it could not be lost. By to-day's express your class will send a wreath of flowers as a token of their tender feeling. Allow me to add an expression of my own deep personal regard for you in this sad loss, hoping that our Kind Father will in some way give you "In loss a gain to match." The passage of a dear one to the Great Beyond is another tie binding us to our own ideals of goodness and love. Believe me very truly, Your yong brother and friend, Weston Vernon. ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p061.jpg) Prof. Vernon Nov. 17/96 On my Mother's death ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p062.jpg) OFFICE OF EDWARD H. ANDERSON, CITY RECORDER. ROOM 2, CITY HALL OGDEN, UTAH, April 2d '97 Elder Orson F. Whitney, Logan, Utah. Dear Brother : I enclose $3.50 for your ex- penses to Ogden. I wish to thank you for your visit, and for the excellent lecture which you gave. Since I saw you, I have heard many expressions of approval of the doctrines therein contained, and the method of presentation. One eastern gentleman told me it was the best and grandest exposition of baptism he had ever heard. It will do much good a- mong the young people. With best wishes for your continued prosperity and success, I remain, Your friend, Edw. H. Anderson. ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p063.jpg) Ed. H. Anderson April 2/97 ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p064.jpg) Salt Lake City, Sept. 8" 1898. My dear Race: For days I've been trying to write and tell you that your box arrived O.K and has been delivered at the house. It seems here that we are out of the delivery district of the express Company; but they notified us by card of its arrival & Papa got a man on the street to bring it up. I've not unpacked it but left it standing in the hall. Every time I go ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p065.jpg) in the hall I am glad to see it for I feel like we have that much of you. You have seen by the papers my experience with burglars. I have hardly regained my- self yet. Imagine the shock it would be to me to awaken and see this man crouched at my dresser, so near my bed he could have sprung and strangled me at the slightest movement on my part. I saw him move along and heard his hands on my jewelry box, and I know if I did not act then it would be too late. I mustered all my strength and in quick succession screamed; "Out, Out, ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p066.jpg) [watermark with the following text] THE BRUNSWICK BOSTON Copley Square BARNES & DUNKLY HERBERT H. BARNES MANAGER. P. O. ADDRESS. { THE BRUNSWICK, { BACK BAY, BOSTON. 1-24-1903- My dear Mr Whitney- I am but now in receipt of your paper. And I cannot tell you how pleased I am at the comments on the "Bishop sublime work - The verse is "noble" and inspired. They say "I miss is "Truth" These quotations smack of the- "Infinite-" I am so glad I had the Love to like him before this great work The dawn of a greater day peeper out if his earlier verses - and I think the sunlit summit is reached - God bless him. I sent the Bishop two large pictures – did he receive them yet? I gave him the larger ones because you know I like him the best. My love and regards to all my friends & Congratulate The dear Bishop. Thine for awhile T.S. Hawort ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p067.jpg) Joseph Haworth to H. G. Whitney ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p068.jpg) The Reed The Reed Hotel Co. Prop's. Ogden, Utah Jan 27, 1903 Bp. O.F. Whitney Historian's Office Salt Lake City, Utah. Dear Bro.: -- Is is with great satisfaction & confidence that I note in the Evening News that you have finished your Epic Poem & I shall watch its career & reception with much interest. By Bp. Whitney, its merits is beyond question but will it be published from Gotham to the world or limited to Mormon circulation? I shall look forward to one of the first copies with longing. Resp, O.W.Bean ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p069.jpg) O.H. Bean an "Elias" ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p070.jpg) Hyrum Pingree, President J. M. Mills, Superintendent ` L. S. Hodgson, Architect W. H. Williams, Vice-President Viola M. Clancy, Clerk Edgar Bates, Medical Inspector J. W. Levedahl, Member Bessie McCready, Sec'y C. A. Marriott, Custodian George S. Glen, " A. B. Malan, Truant Officer Wade M. Johnson, " W. D. Ellis, Treasurer THE BOARD OF EDUCATION Sept 17, 1903 OGDEN CITY, UTAH Why shouldst thou; Oh able Poet Strike my belt and just below it. Teacher I, sans fame since birth. And now I'm made a thing of mirth. Aye, more, a bubble full inflate From soul of foot to crown a pate. A mirror hung before my face That I may see my own disgrace. Now why discribe in graphic phrase Such men as I without some praise? I know that thou hast seen me, Poet. "Thread-bare diction"—yes, I know it. "Superannuated phrasing" "musty proverbs" all appraising now that I have been detected I would be indeed dejected were it not that you remind me All the follies once behind me. I may prosper and have pleasure In the purest truest measure. Therefore, in my humble dreaming. I shall cease to do such scheming As will make me what I'm not Rather than the son dad got. Thanks J. M. M. ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p071.jpg) John M. Mills on "The Educator" ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p072.jpg) Oregon Journal P. O. BOX 121 PORTLAND, OREGON Oct. Nov. 4 '04. My Dear Father and Family: Your loving letter and kind remembrance came to hand, the letter on time and the gloves on the 28th. I need not tell you of the great pleasure your letter gave me, nor how often you were all in my thoughts on my 24th birthday. Think of it. I am actually getting old! But if a man is as young as he feels, I sup- pose I'm good for a little while yet. Of course there is nothing about Portland that would interest you, except that I am here, consequently I will not attempt to give you any "news". I am enjoying myself as well, I suppose, as I could anywhere and it is SUCH a Comfort to have your work appreciated by those who for whom you work. Mr. Carroll, the editor-in-chief, a high-minded thor- ough man, literary in every breath he draws and cultured, often takes me to his home to dinner. He likes me and has shown it in various ways. Only to-day, for example, he established the rule that all dramatic crit- icisms must appear on the editorial page, and not crowded in among advertisements "in every which way", as has been the case. He says the ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p073.jpg) Oregon Journal  P. O. BOX 121 PORTLAND, OREGON (2) matter is worthy of a particular place, for he knows people who look for it every day, and I feel somewhat honored that he should select the editorial page for it. By the way, I will enclose an editorial page and if you have time to p[-]ruse it you will see what kind of a man Carroll is. Now I don’t want to talk about myself all the time and, as I said before, there is nobody else here you would feel an interest in. So I am going to stop with the hopwe that you are all well and happy , that your financial condition is improving every day and the further hope that a decade will not elapse before I see you all again. When I say all, I mean every one of you – from Virginia up, or was it Virgin- ia first? I had another darling letter from Emily on my birthday but have not had time to answer it. When you write tell the gal I love her as deeply as a brother possibly could. And that is true with all of them. They are the brightest crowd of youngsters almost women now, though – that God ever let live, and as for Emily, one of these days, when I see an opportunity of making her stay pleasant, which could not ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p074.jpg) My dear Emily: Save these letters and return them to me when I come to Provo. I am thinking of a "run-down" next Saturday evening. Lovingly Papa ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F1_p075.jpg) Oregon Journal  P. O. BOX 121 PORTLAND, OREGON (3) be without some young girl companionship, I presume – I am going to send for her. Tell Helen and Margaret the same. I would love to have Margaret here where she might see everything in drama, as long as she seems inclined to write for the stage. There is nothing like the training of observation from the front of the house. It is the only place to learn dramatic construction and you cannot, of course , give her the opportunity that my passes would. Portland has seven theatres, three of them of the same standard as the Salt Lake Theatre. Good-bye all. Some of you drop a line as often as you can, for I receive them eagerly. Your Loving Son and Brother – Big Bro., [handwritten] Race ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p001.jpg) MANUFACTURERS OF OFFICE OF THE Lumber, Lath, Shingles United Order Manufacturing and Building Co., And all kinds of OF LOGAN CITY, UTAH. BUILDING MATERIAL Also Dealers in Furniture and General Merchandise. SMITH & STRATFORD, PRINTERS, LOGAN. Logan, Utah, Aug. 7th 1884 BP. O. F. Whitney Salt Lake City My Dear Bro. Permit me a line or two of compliment for your very excellent article or tale, "Stage Struck" in the last contributor. It is altogether the best written paper I have every read in the contributor. "Nay do not think I flatter for what adv- ancement can I hope from thee, that no revenue hast?" I too have been a little "Stage Struck" and your recital is given in such an excellent style that I could not withold my mead of praise. Be dilligent my brother in the literary life for which you are so abundantly gifted. Turn not aside from that path (the path of literature) and in time the name of Whitney shall be great in Isreal because of your efforts. Faithfully Your Bro. and Admirer C.W. Nibley ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p002.jpg) C. W. Nibley Aug /84 ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p003.jpg) HOME LITERATURE Lecture delivered at the Y.M.M.I.A. Conference, June 3, 1888. "Seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learn- ing even by study, and also by faith." The words I have quoted are the words of the Prophet Joseph Smith; or rather, they are the words of the Almighty through that prophet to this people, A people who are popularly supposed to/be enemies of education, despisers of learning, haters of books and schools, of everything, in fact, that is pure, ennobling and refined. A greater mistake was never made, a crueler wrong was never committed, a more heinous moral crime was never perpetrated than when the "Mor- mon" people, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, were thus made odious in the eyes of mankind. For, if it be a crime to filch from an individual his good name, that "immediate jewel of the soul", compared with which, to steal one's purse is to "steal trash", what must it be to rob a whole community of reputation? A community, too, with such a mission as ours; the spiritual enlightenment of a world, the salvation of the human race, the education, for this life and the life to come, of all who can be persuaded to enter the garden of God and..partake, freely, of the precious fruits of the Tree of Knowledge, which, in the truest sense, is also the Tree of Life. To rob such a people of their good name, thus limiting their usefulness, and hindering the fulfillment of their great mission of drawing all men unto Christ by means of knowledge, wisdom and learning revealed from heaven and recorded in the best of books, is indeed a crime, not only against the immediate victims of the slander, but a crime against God and humanity. ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p004.jpg) - -  It is not my present purpose to pursue the subject to which this train of thought would naturally lead. It suffices me to know, and to testify, that this people are the friends, not the foes, of education; that they are seekers after wisdom, lovers of light and truth, universal Truth, which, like the waters of earth, or the sunbeams of heaven, has but one Source, let its earthly origin be what it may. "Truth is truth, wher’er 'tis found, On Christian or on heathen ground." And it is worthy of our love and admiration, whether far or near, high or low, whether blazing as a star in the blue vault of heaven, or springing like a floweret from the soil. "Seek ye out of the best books words of wisdom; seek learn- ing even by study, and also by faith." Why did the Lord so instruct His Prophet? Why did the Prophet so teach his people? Was it not because God had designed, and His Prophet had foreseen a great and glorious future for this people? Chosen himself in weakness, so far as this world's wisdom was con- cerned, as a foundation stone of the mighty structure which is destined to tower heavenward, reflecting from its walls and glitter- ing spires the splendors of eternity, he knew there must come a time, unless God, who cannot lie, had spoken falsely, when Zion, no longer the foot, but as the head, the glorious front of the world's civili- zation, would arise and shine "the joy of the whole earth" -- the seat of learning, the source of wisdom, and the centre of political power; when side by side with pure Religion, would flourish Art and Science, her fair daughters; when music, poetry, painting, sculpture, oratory and the drama, rays of light from the same central sun, no ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p005.jpg) - - longer refracted and discolored by the many-hued prisms of man's sensuality, would throw their white radiance full and direct upon the mirror-like glory of her towers; when the science of earth and the wisdom of heaven would walk hand in hand,interpreting each other; when philosophy would drink from wells of living truth, no longer draining the deadly hemlock of error, to poison the pure air with the illusions of sophistry; when love and union would prevail; when war would sit at the feet of peace and learn wisdom for a thousand years; when Zion’s sons and Zion’s daughters, as famed for intelligence and culture, as for putiry, beauty and truth, "polished after the similitude of a palace", would entertain kings and nobles, sit upon thrones themselves, or go forth, like shafts of light from the bow of the Almighty, as messengers and ambassadors to the nations. Joseph saw all this; he knew it was inevitable; that such things were but the natural flowers and fruits of the work that God had planted. The roots of the tree might not show it so well, -- their mission is to lie hidden in the earth,often trampled on of men -- but the branches in a day to come would prove it. Joseph knew, as every philosopher must know, that purity is the natural parent of beauty, truth the well-spring of power, and righteousness the sun of supremacy. He knevr that his people must progress, that their destiny demanded it; that culture, is the duty of man, as in- telligence is the glory of God. Rough and rugged himself, as the granite boulders of yonder hills, typical of the firm, unyielding basis of Godfs work, he knew, and his brethren around him knew, that on the roughs strong stones of which they were symbolical -- the massive foundations of the past -- the great Architect would ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p006.jpg)  - - rear the superstructure of the future; that the youth of Israel would be inspired to build upon the foundation of the fathers and yet would differ from their fathers and mothers, as the foun- dations of a building must differ from the walls and spires. What can I say, my young brethren and sisters, to awaken in your hearts, if perchance it sleeps, the desire to realize this glorious anticipation? Alas! What can my feeble tongue utter to rouse within you this determination? I can only call upon God, in humility, to make my words as sparks of fire, to fall upon the tinder of your hearts and kindle them into flame; that your souls may be lit up with the light of your glorious destiny, that you may live and labor for God and His kingdom, not simply for yourselves and, the things of earth that perish. What else can make us worthy of such a future? Why are we here? Why did we come? Was it to waste our time in folly and dissipation, to laugh away our lives, pursuing the phantom of pleasure as an idle boy chases a butterfly from flower to flower? Was it to bow down to mammon, to worship the golden calf, to stain our souls and blur the brightness of our minds with the vices of the ungodly? Was this what our fathers and mothers foresaw? Was it for this they sacrificed and suffered, to bring us into existence, teach us the truths of heaven, and place us on the threshold of the mightiest mission ever given to men in the flesh? The answer falls like a bolt from heaven: "I give not unto you to live after the manner of the world." It echoes down the corridors of years: "If ye are Abraham's children, ye will do the works of Abraham." It speaks from earth, air, and the roaring waters; it sounds from the depths of the oracular soul: "Ye are an example to the world; follow not after them!" ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p007.jpg) - - But what has all this to do with literature? More, perhaps, than is at first apparent. It is by means of literature that much of this great work is to be accomplished; a literature of power and of purity, worthy of such a work. And a pure and powerful literature can only proceed from a pure and powerful people. Grapes are not gathered of thorns , nor figs of thistles. I am not here to tickle your ears with tinkling phrases, to deliver a learned lecture on Greek and Roman mythology; to quote Hebrew and Latin, to stun you with sound and bewilder you with pedantic display. No! Experience has taught me that it is the heart, not simply the head, we must appeal to, if we wish to stir the soul. The intellect may shine, but it is the bosom that burns, and warms into life every movement that is born to bless humanity. Therefore I speak to your hearts. I would rather say three words by the power of the Holy Ghost, than lecture for three hours on the fables of Greece and Rome. Wake up! ye sons and daughters of the Most High! Trim your lamps and go forth to meet your destiny. A world awaits you; rich and poor, high and low, learned and ignorant All must be preached to; all must he sought after; all must be left without excuse. And whither we cannot go, we must send; where we cannot speak we must write; and in order to win men with our writing we must know how and what to write. If the learned will only listen to the learned, God will send them learned men, to meet them on their own ground, and show them that "Mormonism", the Gospel of Christ is not only the Gospel of Truth, but the Gospel of intelli- gence and culture. The Allwise is not above doing this. He is merciful to all men, not willing that any should perish, or have ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p008.jpg) - - it to say they were unfairly dealt with. For over fifty years the Gospel has been preached to the poor and lowly. It will yet go to the high and mighty, even to kings and nobles, and penetrate and climb to places hitherto deemed inaccessible. Our literature will help to take it there; for this, like all else with which we have to do, must be made subservient to the building up of Zion. But remember this, ye writers and orators of the future! It is for God's glory, not man's. Let not vanity and pride possess you. Without humility there is no power, You must be earnest. You must feel what you write, if you wish it to be felt by others. If the words you speak are not as red-hot embers from the flaming forge of a sincere and earnest soul, they will never set on fire the souls of your hearers. The days of buncombe and bombast are over. Over? They never had a beginning. Nothing really is that is not founded on fact. The advantages of learning over ignorance are so self- evident as to need no dissertation. Knowledge is power, in this world or in any other. The Prophet Joseph is authority for saying that "a man is saved no faster than he gets knowledge". that "it is impossible to be saved in ignorance". "For," he adds, "If he does not get knowledge, he will be brought into captivity by some evil power in the other world, as evil spirits will have more knowledge and consequently more power, than many men who are on the earth." The Prophet also says that whatever principles of intelli- gence we attain to in this life, they will rise with us in the resurrection; and if one soul by its diligence and faithfulness acquires more knowledge than another, it will have just so much advantage in the world to come. ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p009.jpg) - - How little, then, they know of "Mormonism", who say and think it is opposed to education. "With all thy getting, get understand- ing" is no less a part of the "Mormon" creed, than it is one of the pearls of the wisdom of Solomon. "Seek learning, even by study, and also by faith." The formation of a home literature is directly in the line and spirit of this injunction. Literature means learning, and it is from the "best books" we are to seek it. This does not mean merely the Bible, the Book of Mormon, the book of Doctrine and Covenants, Church works and religious writings -- though these indeed are “the best books", and they will ever lie at the basis of our literature. But it also means history, poetry, philosophy, art, science, lan- guages, government -- all truth in fact, wherever found, either local or general, and relating to times past, present or to come. Yes, the Prophet even meant revelation, inspiration, imme- diate and direct; for does he not say, "seek learning also by faith"? Faith points to the future, to things that shall be; study pertains more to the past, to things that have been. History is temporal, prophecy is spiritual. The past is great, but the future will be greater. The dead letter may be precious, but the living oracle is beyond all price. From the warp and woof of all learning, so far as we are able to master it and make it ours, the fabric of our literature must be woven. We must read, think, feel, pray, and then bring forth our thoughts and polish them. This will make literature. Above all things, be original. The Holy Ghost is the genius of "Mormon" literature. Not Jupiter, nor Mars, nor Mercury, nor Minerva. No fabled gods and goddesses; no Mount Olympus; no "sisters ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p010.jpg) - - nine", no "blue-eyed maid of heaven"; no mythical muses that "did never yet one mortal song inspire". No pouring of new wine into old bottles. No patterning after the dead forms of antiquity. Our literature must live and breathe for itself. Our mission is diverse from all others; our literature must also be. The odes of Anacreon, the satires of Horace and Juvenal, the epics of Homer, Virgil, Dante and Milton; the sublime tragedies of Shakspeare; these are all excellent, all well enough in their way; but we must not copy them. They cannot be reproduced. We may gather sweets from all these flowers, but we must build our own hive and honey- comb after God's supreme design. We will yet have Miltons and Shakspeares of our own. God's ammunition is not exhausted. His brightest spirits are held in reserve for the latter times. In His name and by His help we will build up a literature whose top shall touch heaven, though its foundations be low in earth. Let the smile of derision wreathe the face of scorn; let the frown of hatred darken the brow of bigotry. Small things are the needs of great things, and, like the acorn that brings forth the oak, or the snow-flake that forms the avalanche, God's kingdom will grow, and on wings of light and power soar to the summit of its destiny. Let us onward, then, and upward, keeping the goal in view; living not in the dead past, nor for the dying present. The future is our field. Eternity is before us. I do not mean to depreciate or speak slightingly of the literature of the past [-]. such of it as is worthy of the name. Far be it from me to utter one word that might reasonably be so con- strued. I wish I had power to tell you what I think literature has ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p011.jpg) - 9 - done for the human race what men of letters have accomplished in all ages, from Moses to Herodotus, from Herodotus to Shakspeare, from Shakspeare to Goethe and Carlyle; men who have puored the rich treasures of inspired thought and intelligent research into the lap of humanity, giving birth to civilization and filling earth with fame and glory. I would also speak of the press, that modern giant, that great engine of power, scattering far and wide the embers of intelligence, kindling on ten thousand times ten thousand hearth-stones the fires of thought and of noble aspiration. The newspaper, that daily history of the world, that champion of truth and defender of the oppressed -- how mighty its mission, how far- reaching its influence, how invincible its power! Oh, that it should ever be prostituted, dragged in the mire, degraded to ignoble ends: But alas! it is often so. Therefore, choose between the false and the true, between the unreal and the genuine. "Seek ye out of the best books" -- the best newspapers -- "words of wisdom". Write for the papers, write for the magazines -- especially our home publications -- subscribe for them and read them. Make books your- selves, that shall not only be a credit to you and to the land and people that produced you, but likewise a boon, a benefaction to the mankind It is impossible compute in figures, or to express in words, the blessing that books and book-makers have been to humanity. Let Says me quote from one whose masterly attempt is perhaps half way success- ful. Says Carlyle: "In books lies the soul of the whole past time; the articu- late, audible voice of the past, when the body and material substance of it has altogether vanished like a dream. Mighty fleets and ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p012.jpg) - - armies, harbors and arsenals, vast cities, high-domed, many- engined — they are precious, great: but what do they become? Agamemnon, the many Agamemnons, Pericleses and their Greece; all is gone now to some ruined fragments, dumb, mournful wrecks and blocks: but the books of Greece! There Greece, to every thinker, still very literally lives.” "The writer of a book, is not he a preacher, preaching not to this parish or that, on this day or that, but to all men, in all times and places?” "He with his copy-rights and copy-wrongs, in his squalid garret, in his rusty coat; ruling (for this is what he does) from his grave, after death, whole nations or generations who would, or would not, give him bread while living, - is a rather curious spectacle: Few shapes of heroism can be more unexpected.” "Men of letters are a perpetual priesthood, from age to age, teaching all men that a God is still present in their life. ..... In the|true literary man there is thus ever, acknowledged or not by the world, a sacredness; he is the light of the world; the world’s priest; guiding it like a sacred pillar of fire, in its dark pilgrimage through the waste of time.” Let us, for a moment, in the light of this noble inter- pretation, contemplate the work of a book, a book with which we are all more or less familiar. Nearly four hundred years have passed away since Columbus discovered America. He found here, what? Forests and Indians [-] and tropical fruits; little else. But they who came after him found more. Peeping from the crust of the earth, north and south, east and west, were the relics of a civilization that would have ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p013.jpg) - - put to shame the glory of Egypt in her palmiest days. Nations had risen and fallen on this fair land, before whose fame and power the strength or Rome, the wealth of Asia, would have paled as stars before the sun. Whence came they? What were their names? Why had they fallen? None knew. The sad sea waves and the sighing winds answered not, but continued to chant in mournful numbers their solemn requiem for the dead. The natives could not tell, except in tales and traditions as vague and shadowy as the legends of the Druids or the runic fables of the Norsemen. Who, then would answer? One day a little boy went into the woods and prayed. God answered him and gave him more than he asked. A book came forth by the power of God; a buried record, hidden in a hill. It told the story of the past, it prophesied of the future, and from that hour, Joseph Smith, the despised Mormon Prophet, was the real discoverer of of America! Bothers and sisters -- fellow laborers in the vineyard of the our Lord -- let me hope that I have said something that will stim- ulate and ecourage you to press on in the work of God. Follow not after the world. Avoid the snares of Satan. Be true to yourselves and loyal to your mission. Ye are the "hope of Israel". The heavens are watching you, and the earth is waiting for your ministry. "Awake, awake!" Put on thy strength, O Zion! Put on thy beautiful garments" -- the garments of wisdom and learning that it may no longer be said of thee, with even a semblance of truth or a shadow of reason, that thou art not what we say thou art, and all that the Lord thy God has said thou shalt be. "Arise, shine, for thy light is come, and the Glory of the Lord is risen upon thee." The Yes, the Star of Truth has risen, and the Sun of Righteousness will soon rise. Above the eastern hilltops, even now, are breaking the golden splendors of the dawn. ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p014.jpg) OFFICE OF The First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints P. O. Box B. Salt Lake City, Utah, Jan. 4th 1905 Bishop Orson F. Whitney City. My Dear Brother Orson. On Christmas day I received a copy of your "Epic of the Ages", accompanied by a brief note saying, "This is not the Elias that was to come", it being yet "on the way". but this was "a Christmas remembrance", not only of this Elias which is to come, but of the Kindly holiday greeting and friendship of the gifted Author. I now desire to express briefly, my deep appreciation not only of the gift but also of the giver. I thank you for the book, I thank you still more for your friendship which prompted the giving, and I shall ever prize and cherish the confidence and love of one so greatly blessed by natures choicest gifts, and to whom my heart goes out in purest sympathy and love allways. I love you, bro. Orson; because I feel that you love The Cause of Zion; because we are bound together by bonds of The New and everlasting Covenant of peace. ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p015.jpg) OFFICE OF The First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. P. O. Box B. O. F. W. Salt Lake City, Utah, __________190__ and because the Lord has endowed you with ability, and spirit, and faith and power and rair gifts to advocate His gracious word, and also because of the kindred ties, but little understood, which exist between us. I loved your Grand- father and mother, who were Second par- ents borne in the days of my childhood and youth. I honor the memory of your Sainted Mother, for whom I cherish the highest, purist and most sacred regard. I never think of any of these but to bless them in my heart, for their integrity and devotion to God, His truth, and His servant Joseph the Prophet, and my soul swells with grateful pride and pleasure to feel that their son and children are equally firm and true. God bless you my friend and brother, and keep you ever in His holy path. For the honor you have done me, in the glowing, fervent words expressed by the opening address, I thank you, not for my poor self, but for the place I hold. Your brother Jos. F. Smith ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p016.jpg) Salt Lake City, March 20, 05 1905 Bishop O.F. Whitney, Dear Brother: I listened with close attention to the reading of your Epic poem "Elias." From that time I have been anxious to secure a copy of the same, in order to enable me to better judge of its merits, which then impressed me most favorably. The The book has been in my posession now some fourteen days. After a careful perusal of its pages, parts of which have been re-read [-] then read again, Allow me to congratulate you upon what I think you must recognize as the realization of your fondest hopes and expectations; in this, the grandest effort of your life, the result of the labor of years. [of] The world of literature, as well as of foes y, have has added to <[--]> them it a laurel equal to [-] if not the peer of any all their of its former triumphs. off This triumph is largely, if not entirely due to the theme itself, embodying as it does Moms past, present and future, until the goal of endless felicity is reached, and the enjoyments thereof fully realized. Surely Surely heavenly inspiration will always follow the contemplation of such a theme. It certainly is clearly manifest in the sentiments expressed through every Canto which adorns the pages of your book "Elias." With sentiments of the highest esteem, I subscribe myself Your Brother in the Covenant, Joseph E. Taylor Type writing would be too cold. The pen in my hand has simply responded to the true expression of the soul. Hence these lines. J.E.T. ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p017.jpg) Joseph E. Taylor on "Elias" ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p018.jpg) On "Bridal Veil" My Very Dear Ort. I have read and reread your latest finetical effusion and find in it a depth of sentiment that appeals to me- and you know we have much in common- or uncommon- may be those similarities are. I am more proud of you than I can express in novels, yet my pride does not outweigh my love for you, and yours— I hope same "day of days" you will write a poem that will give to the world a more exalted idea of the Prophet Joseph than any thing that has been said, or written. [the following is a letterhead] "THE DODGE LEAFLETS" Dodge Publishing Company New York Lovingly Aunt Emm. Wells Christmas 1907 ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p019.jpg) BE OF GOOD CHEER BE of good cheer, brave spirit; steadfastly serve that low whis- per thou hast served; for know, God hath a select family of sons now scattered wide thro' earth, and each alone, who are thy spiritual kindred, and each one by constant service to that inward law, is weaving the sublime proportions of a true monarch’s soul. Beauty and strength, the riches of a spotless memory, the eloquence of truth, the wisdom got by searching of a clear and loving eye that seeth as God seeth. These are their gifts, and Time, who keeps God’s word, brings on the day to seal the marriage of these minds with thine, thine everylasting lovers. Ye shall be the salt of all the elements, world of the world. RALPH WALDO EMERSON. ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p020.jpg) caused from his weak- ened condition and ex- treme nervousness. Mr. J. R. asked me in his last if Mr. Strauss had written to Race and I failed to reply or rather forgot to answer the question. Please tell him for me that so far Race has never heard from him. You had better wire me when you start and if the situation changes here I will wire you before this reaches you and in case you receive none you may know everything remains the same. Sincerely, Margaret Gallagher [The following is written sideways in top right corner] Margaret Gallagher ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p021.jpg) Los Angeles Cal 4/3/08 Mr. O. F. Whitney, Salt Lake City, Utah, My dear Dear Mr. Whitney: I wrote Mr. J.R.W. the first of the week with the news that Race had shown his first improve- ment. Well I can not write you that the im- provement continued The greatest new spec- ialist in the state was call in consultation the next day and made a ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p022.jpg) thorough examination of him gave as his diagnocis of the case as severe nervous trouble even to the trouble in his feet, caused by long years of drinking and it would take him from four to six months to recover, said he had no organic heart trouble and that the eczema would eventually leave him. At times, especially after any exser- ition his pulse runs very high. He spent the worst night last night he has since he was taken down suffered intensely. I take home from the hospital to-morrow and with myself & special nurse will do every thing in our power for him. He is longing for you and the doctor just informed me you had better come on at once At times his mind is not clear then he will brace up and be as bright as ever, but you do not need to worry over this as it is ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p023.jpg) "YOU CAN'T KEEP A GOOD TOWN DOWN" [First column] Directors Wilson-Sherman Co. HOYT SHERMAN PRESIDENT GEORGE JAY GIBSON, VICE-PREST. EUGINE B. PALMER, SECRETARY HOWARD S. STOWE, TREASURER E. W. WILSON BOTH PHONES 492 We want your Business [Second column] WILSON-SHERMAN CO. "INSURANCE THAT INSURES" AND SURETY BONDS CONTROLLED BY HOWARD S. STOWE STOWE AND PALMER EUGINE B. PALMER REAL ESTATE, RENTALS AND LOANS 52 WEST SECOND SOUTH STREET LESSEES LYNN-SMITH CO., INSURANCE SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH, July 19, 1908. I had hoped to see you personally long before this, but absence from the city prevented, and a misunderstanding on my part as to the date of Race's funeral was responsible for my not being present then. I did not even know Race was in the city sick until I saw the items in the paper shortly before his death. You have been with me through a similar occasion and I only wish I could be as much help to you as you have been to me. There is little which can be said on an occasion like this. I feel a deep personal sorrow, for I knew and appreciated the boy's brilliancy and his lovable qualities My keenest regret is that I did not know about his illness before, as I could have gone to see him. WE WRITE FIRE, AUTOMOBILE, PLATE GLASS, LIABILITY AND BURGLARY INSURANCE AND SURETY BONDS BEST COMPANIES BEST POLICIES ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p024.jpg) "YOU CAN'T KEEP A GOOD TOWN DOWN" [First column] Directors Wilson-Sherman Co. HOYT SHERMAN, PRESIDENT GEORGE JAY GIBSON, VICE-PREST. EUGINE B. PALMER, SECRETARY HOWARD S. STOWE, TREASURER E. W. WILSON BOTH PHONES 492 We want your Business [Second column] WILSON-SHERMAN CO. "INSURANCE THAT INSURES" AND SURETY BONDS CONTROLLED BY HOWARD S. STOWE STOWE AND PALMER EUGINE B. PALMER REAL ESTATE, RENTALS AND LOANS 52 WEST SECOND SOUTH STREET LESSEES LYNN-SMITH CO., INSURANCE SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH. [Third column] Representing GERMAN-AMERICAN INSURANCE CO. NATIONAL FIRE INSURANCE CO. SPRINGFIELD F. & M. INSURANCE CO. NORWICH UNION FIRE INS. SOCIETY NIAGRA FIRE INSURANCE CO. INSURANCE CO. OF NORTH AMERICA PHILADELPHIA UNDERWRITERS PHENIX INS. CO. OF BROOKLYN METROPOLITAN SURETY CO. FIDELITY & CASUALTY CO. [Main body/Fourth column] In a time like this, there is little which can be said. I feel sure, however, that you understand. Sincerely yours, Eugene B. Palmer. ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p025.jpg) Eugene Palmer on Races Death ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p026.jpg) ...OFFICE OF... FRED J. HOLTON, District Attorney, First Judicial District. Attorney And Counselor at Law. Brigham City, Utah, July 17, 1908. Hon. Orson F. Whitney Salt Lake City, Ut: Dear Brother:- In this the hour of bereavement and sorrow at the loss in time of your gifted son, I feel to tender you and yours my heartfelt sympathy and love. Personally perhaps, I am unknown to you, and yet in spirit, I feel always to have known you. For years I have been inspired and encouraged by your loving ministry of speech and song and deed. I rejoice in your poetic instincts and aspirations, your lofty lyrics of the Gospel and Truth, your grand themes of spiritual uplift- -ing have cheered me on many a weary day, have kindled courage and hope in my soul to bear life's burdens more manfully, to perform life's duties more unfalteringly, I owe you a debt of gratitude. More and more as the years pass, I am im pressed that we should present our just tribute to the living, and not alone strew flowers for the dead. One word of hope and appreciation to the living is worth more than an avalanche of flowers for the dead. That word, here and now, dear brother do I tender, when I say that for more then twenty years last past, your gifted and inspired utterances, whether in poetry or prose, have added to my joy. have ass- isted me more and more to appreciate and love the Truth, and in the Gospel to see the grand system that shall finally unify and harmonize all knowledge and culture in heaven or earth. [Years ago, when a student at Provo, I heard you relate a vision received by you, in which you discerned the Saviour in Gethsemene, and saw there His awful agony. ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p027.jpg) ...OFFICE OF... FRED J. HOLTON, District Attorney, First Judicial District. Attorney And Counselor at Law. Brigham City, Utah, ( ) That vision and its relation by you, and the Spirit that accompanied it made a deep impression upon my soul, whichh the intervening years have not erased, that the vision made a deep impression upon your soul is evidenced by all your after life. To each one of us, sooner or later, I am persuaded, comes the deep trial, the agony, the temptation; each life has its Gethsemene, when even our dearest and most trusted friends fail to watch with us for even one short hour, and we must hear the agony alone, but Peace and victory, like the sunlight of God, lights up the darkness, when we can say and feel ’’Thy will be done” I, like you, am a father, the joys and sorrows of parenthood have been mine, I have stood where open graves contained the objects of life's affection, I have known the sorrows of deep trial, and the agony of affliction. From personal experience have I come to know, how powerless to soothe the soul, in hours of bereavement and death, are any words framed by lip of man. Nothing but the peace of God, that passeth all understanding, can accomplish the miracle, and say to the heaving, restless, billows of life, "Peace be still" May the Spirit of God like a benediction rest down mightily upon you, my dear brother, may its presence soothe your troubled spirit, and bind up your broken heart, and as you have comforted others by your loving ministry in the deep hours of trial,so may the Spirit of Comfort, from God the Comforter, rest down in tenfold power upon you. Let this thought also be with you, you have an audience numbered by thousands of the sons and daughters of Zion,who mourn with you in your distress, and they rejoice with you in your rejoicing. Not unmindful are they of your trials, sorrows, and afflictions, to them you are known as a choice Son of the Father, laboring in mortality to lift men higher. Years ago, the Spirit manifested to me that in you I saw an Apostle of the Lamb,ere hands were placed in ordination upon you. ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p028.jpg) ...OFFICE OF... FRED J. HOLTON, District Attorney, First Judicial District. Attorney And Counselor at Law. Brigham City, Utah ( ) I have lived to see that manifestation of the Spirit to me verified in time, as I expect to live to see the fulfilment of many other matters manifested to me by the same Divine Source. You shall feel in your soul, the deep and abiding love of those who are yours for Christ's sake, for their sympathy shall call down the blessings of God upon,you. In conclusion I pray that the inspiration, the spirit of endless re-union, in which your gifted son shall ever be part of your family circle in eternity, atone in some degree, for present loss and seperation in time. With feelings of sympathy and love, I remain, Your brother in truth: [signed] Fred J. Holton. ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p029.jpg) [Written sideways on right side of page] Fred J. Hol[---] on Races Death ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p030.jpg) BOOK AND JOB PRINTERS THE DESERET NEWS PUBLISHERS OF THE DESERET EVENING NEWS, PER YEAR, $9.00 DESERET EVENING NEWS, SATURDAY EDITION, PER YEAR, $2.00 THE DESERET SEMI-WEEKLY NEWS, PER YEAR, $2.00 H. G. WHITNEY, BUSINESS MANAGER BLANK BOOK MAKERS SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH. Sept. 3-08 Bishop O. F. Whitney, City. My dear Brother: I wish to offer my personal congratula- tions on the successful conclusion of your work "The Making of a State". Brother Lewis and I have gone over the matter and, while we know that your services are only partially paid for in the price obtained, yet we trust you realize that our own profits are circumscribed, owing to the heavy cost of oper- ation, the narrow field we occupy and the long time it will take to dispose of the edition. If the work had the wide cir- culation its merits deserve, you first, and we second, would get the returns we are entitled to. We both feel, however, that you should have some recognition for the arduous work you were called on to do to get out the book on time, and we have added $100.00 to the contract price agreed on, making the figure $1100, instead of $1000. I trust this will be satisfactory, and I enclose herewith check of the Deseret News, in final settlement, for $299.40. Thanking you for the care and ability with which your work has been prepared, I am, Very sincerely yours, H. G. Whitney Bus.Mgr. THE DESERET NEWS 2 enc. ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p031.jpg) Springfield, Mass. Oct. 17, 1908. Bishop Orson F. Whitney, Salt Lake City. Utah. Dear Bishop Whitney:- A few days ago Mr. John W. Shector sent me a copy of your recommendation of my history. I deeply appreciate the high tribute which you pay me and my work. It is one of the most discrimi- natory estimates of the aim I had in veins that I have ever seen and I shall treasure it. Your words affect me in a way that I cannot ex- pen upon. I hope I may at some tune have the pleasure of meeting ----- new page (MSS15_S1_SS1_B1_F2_p032.jpg) You, for your