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.] William Wines (W.W.) Phelps Papers Number of Pages: 54 ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I10_p001.jpg) Letter 27 187 Sally: The house of the Lord at Kirtland, Ohio, was Dedicated on Sunday the 27 of march, 1836. The con- gregation to the number of about 1000. Convened in the house at 8 oclock A.M. There was probably as many more without the house. Opened the Mee= ting by singing "Ere long the vail will rend in twain" - Sterling Bayer by President Rigdon. An Angel came in on the [---] seat during the prayer. Sung "O happy souls who pray."- Weymouth. . .President Rigdon preached from the 18, 19, & 20 verses of <8 Chap> Matthew, about 2 1/2 hours. After this President J. Smith Jr. was acknowledged prophet and Seer, by the different Quorums, and by all the Congregation of the Saints, by rising alternately. The remaining presidents were then acknowledged the same, by the Same. Sung "Now let us rejoice in day of Salvation," Hosanna. Intermission 15 ms Recommenced by Singing: "This earth was once a garden place". Adam=ondi=Ahman. " Here the presidents, and all the quorums were acknowledged in their several offices as they seer and prophet had been. and it was one of the solemnest as well as sublimest scenes I ever witnessed. Sung "How pleased and blest was I" President Smith then delivered the following prayer (see 130 & 131 page of this letter) Sung "Hosanna to God and the Lamb Several their bore record after the Sacrament was administered. The Scene now became anima= ting: the whole congregation Shouted "Hosanna, hosan na, hosanna, to God and the Lamb, henceforth and forever; amen, amen, and amen" three times. one song of Zion sung in tongues, and the Services concluded. A meeting of the Elders was held in the eveng when much speaking in tongues was witnessed ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I10_p002.jpg) On Tuesday, the 29th, the washing of feet among the presidents & Bishops and their councillors to place: it was a solemn scen[-]e; at night they partook of the sacrament, as the passover having fasted all day they feasted on bread and wine; were fil[-]ed with the Spirit of their endowment, and prophesied ma[--] terrible things: they meeting continued till day light in the morning: At 8 oclock the Several Quorums of the church, embracing all the ordained members came in and, let be remembered that on that 30th day of March, 1836, their feet were washed, and they commenced prophecying and shouting Hosanna to God and the Lamb. At Evening the sacrament was administered, as the feast of the Passover for the first time in more than 1800 years; then spake they with tongues and prophesied. On Thursday the 31st March, a second Ded= ication was held for the Lord's House. it was a sublim[-] scen[-] surpassing the first in sublimity and solemnity as well as in order. The singing was grand. the Addresses were the best that could be and majesty exceded any thing I have witnessed in the last days: On F[-]iday, April 1, the elders began to go forth to bind up the Sa[-] and seal up th[---] testimony: and though the going was very ba[-]d not a word was heard, every many was anxious to be in the field. May God bless them in their labors. The whole has been a grand sol= emn scene. the last endowment. sol= lemn scene the last end[--]ment. Sow may the Lord speed his work, and cut it short in righteousness. Amen. April 1 1836 ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I10_p003.jpg) On Sunday, April 3, the twelve held meeting and aministered the sacrament. It was a glorious time. The curtains were dropt in the after noon. a[---] there was a manifestation of the Lord to Br. Josep[-] and Oliver, by which then warned that the great & terrible day of the Lor[-] as mentioned by M[-]lichi, was near, even at the doors. Could not get ready to start for Missouri, on Monday - had to wait to raise Money to purchase land: Monday & Tuesday went heavily though I attended a feast at Father Johnson's on Tuesday after noon. Wednesday was set apart as day of prayer to end [-]he feast of the passover. and in honor of the Jubilee of the church: it being Six years old this day: The Elders had been leaving for Mo. every day since last Thursday, and myself and Br P. & C. & M. hated to Stay solong, but we could not help it. This last letter is from your husband, Sally, who, to save you the postage, as well as, to have a little more of your sweet "Satisfaction," brings it to you in person hoping you will receive both in welcome. &[-] L[--]en &[-] Sally Phelps WW Phelps ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I10_p004.jpg) Free Mr P Sally Phelps Liberty Clay Co. Mo. ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I11_p001.jpg) Homer, June 21, 1841 Sally Phelps: The day after I wrote to you from Rochester, I was taken sick, and did not recover and get able to start for Homer, till Saturday the 12th, and on Monday the 14 at 6 o'clock P.M. I arrived to the astonishment and Joy of my father's family. I found my father helpless; had a fit of the Palsy two years and two months ago, which numbed half of his body and otherwise debilitated him. Mother was well and hearty, as well as Wilson, Joshua Horton and Eliza. Horton, the youngest is married and lives in our old house where we left Benjamin Benjamin has grown grey and ugley, according to reports. I found the seed of mormonism sown ten years ago, like the fire without wood, had gone out. Wilson and Joshua had been baptised into a sectarian baptist church, but father and mother remained like old Israel, or as Moses' "burning bush", unconsumed. In the morning after my arrival I commenced my work and on Saturday, after four days talking and diligent prayer, which was about the same as a four days meeting, we got into the wagon and went to visit Ruth wood and her husband who lives on the River north, a mile west of Dr Pennel's, where I had the unspeakable Joy of baptising my father (who I carried in my arms into water,) and my mother, and my brother Joshua, while some of the rest of the family stood and cried. Joshua is a real Saint for as soon as I commenced preaching he commenced searching the scriptures to see if I quoted correctly, and when he saw that I literally quoted and fairly explained the bible, he Join'd with me and said "O, it is Just so, William is right!" ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I11_p002.jpg) My father lost his farm, and bought back fifty acres for $500, which has been paid, but in his helpless condition, as all his children are of age, and, excepting Joshua, in the world and for the work. he can not do more than live. One of Maria Griswold's boys lives with him. Wilson is worth five or six hundred dollars and will keep it. Joshua owns fifty acres the east half of fathers farm which he will sell first oppor[-]nity. for he is [-]eavened. Horton owns fifty acres on the corner in Solon east of our old house, and he works and acts as if he would scratch old mother earth's head to a scab. Thus you have a sketch which will suffice till you see me. I talk some of making arrangements with Joshua to get some fulled cloth for he feels anxious for me as himself. Our old n[-]ighbors are anxious to see me and learn about our welfare and doctrine. They have not forgot to give you your due, a good name. My fathers family all speak as it were the same language concerning you, both as to your pleasant disposition and red cheeks, but I tell them, time has summer followed them. and they bear an ex= cellent crop of patience in age, and sinc[-]rity in religion. If you see Mr. Burdick, tell him I have not as yet been able to go to Hukimu for him. I had a three dollar bill given to me at Akrou which, for fear you may need, I send: tis all I have, Sally, or you should have more. and if you can get along without I know you will save it to help us on to Nauvoo. Be faithful and patient. pray for him whose heart you know can feel the effects of humility. I do know when I shall start home. As Ever W. W Phelps ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I11_p003.jpg) P S I have been twice with a basket and fished for trouts: catching a good mess each time, I have dried some which I mean to try and bring with me that you and the children may have a taste as well i[-] me. you can not realize my feelings nor suppose my anxiety for my wife and children. Tears tell what hearts hide [illustration] with friends. I shall call at Rochester for your letters. ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I11_p004.jpg) [text written at 90 degree angle] Perused by S.J. Paid [---] Mrs. Sally Phelps Kirtland Mills Lake Co. Ohio. [the following text is written upside down at bottom of page] June 21, 1841 ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I12_p001.jpg) [bolded text indicates text written in red ink] Acrosticana. By W.W. Phelps Give patience perfct work, And seek eternal bliss; One faith is all you need while in Idumea; Do ye as Mary did,- The truth will never fail; Build up thy husband's realm, His fame must be your will; Live meek and sweeten life with pray'r from day to day; Eternity will come And raise thy spirit uP; Sincerty is there, To give the second youth; Salvation never faints, Pure joy will gladden thee; You know what God can do;- Thou'lt say thy cup is full; Of peace, and grace and love, and everlasting help, Unto thy soul's content, with God's eternal lives.- ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I12_p002.jpg) Sally Phelps' Acrosticana May 11, 185[-] ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I13_p001.jpg) THE TERRITORY OF UTAH. To all who shall see these Presents, Greeting: KNOW YE, That whereas, William W. Phelps was at the general Election, held on the 7th day of August A. D. 1865 elected a Justice of the Peace, for the second Precinct in Great Salt Lake County, and he having duly qualified as such, as appears by the Certificate of the Clerk of said County, on file in the office of the Secretary of said Territory- Therefore, I, Amos Reed Acting Governor of said Territory do hereby Commission him a Justice of the Peace for said Precinct, in and for said County - - - - - and authorize and empower him to discharge the duties of said Office according to law, and to enjoy the rights and emolu= ments thereunto legally appertaining, for the term of one year from the date of said election, and until his successor shall be elected and qualified to office. In Testimony Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand, and caused the Seal of said Territory to be affixed. Done at Great Salt Lake City, this Seventeenth day of August A. D. 1865, and of the Independence of the United States the Eighty Ninetieth. Amos Reed. Acting Governor ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I13_p002.jpg) [no text] ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I14_p001.jpg) give me a little specimen of a "Poetess" in my absence, and a fine sample of a "sweet singer" when I return. Pray for those endowments in faith, and I will, and the Lord will grant them to you. No good gift will the Lord withhold if the saints are only faithful. Brother Whitney's father and mother came to [----] [---] f[-]om Ve[-]mont, in October and have both been since baptized: There come [-]nto Kirtland in a short time, a great number of brethren - the saints seem to "keep all things in motion". Matthias the false prophet has made Kirtland a visit, and thus the saints know such men to be influenced by the wicked one. Very great exertions have been made to finish the House of the Lord this winter. I suppose for the last fort night, that nearly 50 men, as carpenters and Joiners, masons, mortar makes, [--]d cur- riers, &c, have been laboring on the house. The hand finish is about half on the outside, and the scaffolds cut down so that this momument of the latter day saints Liberality begins to show itsilf. The lower part of the inner court, is nearly plastered and will soon be finished. See book of "Doctrine and Covenants" page 233: paragraph 3. you can read the whole r[-]velation, for it will show you that whom the Lord loves he chastens. A great effort is now about to be made to procure a "bell" for the Lord's house. I must relate the marvilous work, here. There have been built during the past year nearly 20 houses, mostly very small- only one of note called the 'Boston House' it is 53 feet by 32 feet - three stories high, it is not ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I14_p002.jpg) yet inclosed. It is almost a miracle how such a large number of live - but the Lord is merciful. All the lawsuits commen= ced against our folks, or which our people have commenced the world against the world's people, have turned in our favor but one and that was of no great consequence Sally, you have never mentioned a word about our suits. Don't you hear any thing about them? It is quite natural to see Bishop Partridge, Elder Morley, Carroll, Beebe, and many other Zion elders every day - I sometimes think if it was not for our being together, where we can exchange our feelis that time would hang heavy. Elder Marsh and I generally see each other every day, and comfort one another by chatting on what is to be! What is to be when the Lord permits us to come home, and what will be when Zion is redeemed. Brother Marsh is as corpulent as an Alderman, and I remain just the same in body, in mind, and in health, and I think and praise the Lord for keeping me Just so poor: Just so common minded, and Just so healthy. I want you to be careful, and do just as I write [---] you do. I have told you once or twice to take all my letters that I have written to you and lock them up, I want to make a book of them. If you, or Sabrina, or any one, has copied anthings get them all in - do as I tell you for my sake. The reason is, by the time you get this letter, the "covenants' will arrive, and the Saints must ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I14_p003.jpg) 70) learn their duty from the Revelations. We must live by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God, and not by what is written by man or is spoken by man. The high Council and the Bishop's Council, are the property authority to give advice to the Saints, and time of need [---] [---] do what the Lord requires: Therefore you [---] perceive that my letters are my pri= vate Journal - and you must take good care of them and See that no copies are out. I shall Continue to you all the news and new things that is expedient for you, or the Saints - but keep my letters at home. It is a great thing to give advice - I am a weak man - subject to the like vanities and passions of others, and rather than offend one of the children of God wrongfully - I wan[-] to beg - I pray the Lord to forgive me of all my iniquities and I want my brethren to forgive me and even my wife must have nothing against me. How can I receive an endowment if my skirts are not clean from the blood of this generation? My own family are of the blood of this generation, and so are my brethren and sisters: Let us be wise, then, and forgive as the Lord forgives us that we may be clean. I forgive all, all their trespasses or hardness towards me. My letters are my property. I direct them to my wife, because She and I are one, and She will keep them safe for me. Whatever news they contain, she is at liberty to read to the saints, for their consolation, in their loneliness. The Book of Doctrine & Covenants is an excel= ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I14_p004.jpg) Read Pass by S.J 67 year's and the one her have commenced. All reasonable men will suppose, that we cannot print papers without means. And, in my ab= sence you may want some of avails to live upon: At any rate, if the saints would pay you there, I should not have to send you any money from here. If you care to spred this news among the brethren, I think the "honest ones" would try to pay you. I want you should buy one piece of Common Cotton shirting such as you need for the children and your= own wear. And perhaps you will want some "Jeans" for Henry and James, such articles can be bought cheap for cash at St[-]tharts. You will want some tallow, or beex wax and Lard for can= dles, &c. On Saturday the 7th I heard from Lydia. Elder Coons gave me the information. He labored in the south parts of Smyrna, as you will learn by the Messenger. He says Lydia accounted herself a Mormon, but he did not learn whether she had been baptised or not. He understood she meant to get ready, if possible, and come to Kirtland next Spring. I have written a letter to her and when I get the answer, I will write you the particulars. I feel confidant that I shall get her into the church thus Sally can rejoice that she has some own blood besides herown in the kingdom. I try hard to have all your brothers and sisters brought in. By the letters which Sister Marsh sends to Thomas I perceive, that she is turning to be a Rhymestress. I wonder if you cannot pray to the Lord for the spirit of poetry, and "Singing," and ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I2_p001.jpg) 20 July 1835 Margaret My companion forever, having an opportunity in this letter I write a few words with an expectation to write again in about 3 weeks, I greatly rejoiced to receive a letter from you it is a greater satisfaction to me than to hear in any other way _ I mailed a letter to you a few days before I receivd yours in which I Scolded some because you neglected writing so long but I only meant to stir you up to consider that letters from you are of the greatest importance to me in my absence .I wish you not to of writing as often as once in four weeks without fail and in every letter write all the paticulars you can concerning yourself and the family first and of the church and let me know the feelings of your heart &c. I expect without fail I shall return in the spring, but I see no prospect at this time of returning any sooner unless the Lord permits and if he does I shall be sure to acept the offer, I want you should find out if you can whether you can stay in that house longer than till the year is up, for if not I must provide for you some how _ The Morristown paper you spoke of is not taken [--]e _ I want you to give heed to letter which I sent by Elder Beebe and answer it fully, and let me know also how you make out for money as I have not sent you any, you did not mention whether you need my letter written in April please to name it if you did, - I need yours of March - a week from next sunday I expect to go to [---]ry and preach where Betney lives after which I shall write again so I leave for the present by subscribing myself your most affitunate husband and companion in life, and through life untill death and after death ever to live and enjoy each again in eternity pray for me J[-]hn Corrill I say to the elders, priests, teachers, Deacons, & members: be prayerful, humble and watch ful, so that Satan may not deceive you: Let such as live in the region of Zion, at least pray over their flocks and fields, and for the prosperity of those with whom they you tarry: - and three times a day for the welfare of yourselves and families. If every Saint is not very prayerful and very humble, he must feel the displeasure of his God. The three Presidents of Zion act for his good, whether in Zion, Kirtland or England, and have a right to [-]pi[-]t in regu= lating the affairs of her stakes: Therefore, when any one attemps to meddle with her affairs, he will be held to an account before God. As ever W.W. Phelps ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I2_p002.jpg) I must stop in the middle of my letter: Sally will remember, that before we came into the church, we both dreamed in one night, :- I, thot I fed a great pack of sheep in a great Mill; and you, that you drew water out of a well and watered many cattle: while I feed the Sheep, Don't forget to water the cattle - and work righteousness. Be careful of your words : I dreamed the other night that Nephi said "How do you No Jas Phelps?" I answerd "I do as well as I Can." To which he replied - "He doth as well as he can, that followeth the direction of the Holy Spirit, and keepeth all the the commandments and him only." By the first Elder or any honest person, that is coming this way, tell James H. Rollins to send me all the Red pencils which may be among the goods. &c. I hate to stop but must. Forever yours, W.W. Phelps Sally Phelps Dear Mother, & Sisters &c I now take my pen in hand to inform you that I am well and thankful to God for it. Father answerd your letter Saturday the 18th and I was glad to here from [--]ose and find you are are well. I h[---] been sick [---], [------] I left [----] except a hadock [--] [-----] then. Kirtland has altered a great deal since we lived here it is a growing very fast indeed but I do not like it so. well as home nor any other place that I have seen. Our passage here was not as quick as it might have been but I thank the Lord that we got here safe. I have sent some papers to Henry Rollins and to you. The building of the House is [-] going on very fast Brothers Corvill and Higbee work onit it is a large House I assure you they are now to work on the steeple. give my respects to all there and to Ira. and to Henry Sarah Young and Ld Lydia tell them I long to see the time when I shall return home to live I mean to live faithful if I can live now at President Smiths There at spent three Stores in this town two of them belong to the Church they hold meetings in the House now. I wrote on the paper that we had not got any letter from home lett that since we got your letter I have sent papers nearly every time to you and Henry R. I do not know when we shall return home. Tell Ira that I get along as well [the paper is physically cut, obscuring the last line] ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I3_p001.jpg) Sept. 9, 1835 20 (17 Beloved in the Lord: The letter from both the high coun= cils to the elders and church in Clay County, Mo., ad= dressed to Br. Hezekiah Peck, contains so much good instruction, that I have supposed it to be unnecessary to write to any but Sally, and inasmuch as you submit unto my teachings and commands, as unto the Lord, others seeing your submission, your meek= ness, and virtuous example, if they mean to be among the saints, "will go and do likewise". The Spirit whispers me that the instructons already given, in connection with what [--]ch travelling elder will necessarily write to his wife, will be suf= ficient to keep every member in the way of duty till the "doctrine and Covenants arrive, when all can choose for themselves; And if they then miss their way, and are unfaithful in keeping the Commandments, and living by every words that proceeds forth from the mouth of God, they must be chastenened! I have it in my heart to give you a little instruc= tion, so that you may know your place, and stand in it, beloved, admired, and rewarded, in time and in eternity. But in order to do this, I must show the duty of Man, in part. Man was created in the be= ginning to dress the earth to multiply his species; ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I3_p002.jpg) 18 to honor God, and enjoy his presence forever, Hence it is the duty of man to labor for his liv= ing; to provide for his own household; to cultivate the land; to beautify it, to rear up habitations, and to have dominion over all animals which were made for his use and benefit. But it is not good that man should live alone, therefore it is pleasing to the Lord, that he should have an help meet, and multiply, and replenish the earth, raising up seed, that the earth may be filled with its measure of Man: Wherefore marvel not that a per[--] without raising up seed, to continue his or her, name, and inheritance lacks a blessing: For the Psalmist says: "Lo children are the heritage of the Lord!" In the first chapter of Romans, beginging at the 26 verse, see what abominations women and men work by changing the order of heaven: Th[--] is one reason why the generations of men have been more or less cursed, with harlots, Whore mongers, adul= terres, maimed children, ungodly wretches, &c. God gives them up to their own vile affec= ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I3_p003.jpg) 23 tions. This you know is the fact with men and women in general among the gentiles. The Lord promises to bless the fruit of the body of the Saints, if they keep his commandments: This brings to mind "our little innocent Lydia," who, I am persuaded from what I learn, is beloved and blessed of the Lord: if I were with you I could tell you why, but (suffice[-]till I come,) to say that one of the great reasons is, because her Mother did the will of the Lord, without murmuring in bringing that child into this world. In the 11th chapter of first Corinthians, you will see that the head of Christ is God; and the head of man is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man; and that the woman was crea= ted for the man: I might refer you to many other passages which give light on this sub= ject but you have a good concordance And you can turn to them at your leisure. God placed man upon earth to do his will and it is his will that the earth should be filled with its measure of man. Celibacy is not tolerated by the Commandments, neither is fornication; ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I3_p004.jpg) nor is any Device that hinders the increase of Man: This you may learn by reading 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th and 10th verses of the 38 chapter of Genesis. Man was created upright but Satan has lead him to commit many abominations. I shall next say this, man bi[--]g placed on this earth to honor God, had his agency given him so that he might choose for himself; that by obeying the Laws and commandments of his Creator, he might be rewarded with honor and glory in eternity; thus he might become a Son of the Lord Jesus, for Jesus was the Only Begotten of the Father. Now you know thus man was placed at the head of creation, next to the Lord; and the woman is next to the man, bone of his bone. If man honors the Lord He will obey his commandments: if woman honors her husband she will obey his commandments, and thus the order of heaven is followed on earth, and the man and woman, and the children are blessed of the Lord, and peace reigns. ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I4_p001.jpg) Fiday Sept 11, 1835 (18) Tenth Letter to Sally Waterman Wm Phelps 19 Well Sally-on Wednesday the ninth instant, I received your fourth Letter, in 19 days from Mo, by the post mark. You have no idea how much Joy your letters give ; and those who read them are pleased with them also. I mean what you write with your "own hand". your Spirit comes modestly in your Ideas, and it gives me great conso= lation in my absence from you. I was sorry to learn that you thought of going on a visit to Jerusha; who who would take care of Sally in the midst of mobs & diseases? If you will read the 19 verse of a comand= ment in the little Book of Commandments, page 146, you will see that you can not go by water, and to go by land would be too hard for you. O Sally, don't think of going while I am absent. Now. I know that no man on earth thinks more of his wife than I do of you, I do not conceal it, nor never did. I love you and I want you to love me and write to me that you do. I love to please you; and I want you should want to please please me, and say so in your letters. I expect an endowment, and I labor to forgive and be for given I have said so in my letters to you and I think you have forgotten to mention it in your letters. If you and I tary together on earth, and go to the Lord together, we "must be one". I made an expression in one of my letters that it almost made me "mad with myself" to think I did not make you write more when I was home. you quote it. I am sorry I made it you write better than I expected. I can write some better and faster than you do; but your simple, unaffected modest style, does away every other lack. Just say you love to write to me and that will pleae me. Selah J. Griffin and Elder G M Hinkel came here on his day away with br. Joseph and Oliver and Sidney as they returned from portage conference. Selah was in a good spirit. And so was brother Hinkel. I feel as if Read Peck was not very mad at me. As he is a Clerk in this business to Brother Whitney and myself. ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I4_p002.jpg) 20 19 and is accountable to 'me' for his good conduct and not me to him. If he does not know that I Am one of his surviving partners of that little lot of goods, I will try and get br. Whitney to write him a line So that he need have no fears nor hardness on that account. Sister Emett need not to fear, br Emett will attend to his rent in time. And I hope His Lord will have mercy on his boy. If Kelly has not paid you yet, I do not know what to say. He acts wrong and the whole world is Just so. pray to God to open his heart to pay you, and I will, and he will do it. I was truly glad to receive another letter from Sabrina. The souls of our children Sally, are of great worth, don't let them be lost if in your power to prevent it. I love our child ren and I love to have them brought right; may God assist to do it. I am now revising hymns for a hymn Book. Nothing has been doing in [-] translation of the Egyptian Record for a long time, and probably will not for some time to come. Why don't you say how you like the papers I send you? As soon as I hear from any of your folks I shall write. Be careful as you have been to have your good, so that every body can read them. (except you send me a private one) Br Joseph thinks much of them, and so do I. The rest of this letter was written When yours come Sally and children remember him whose voice you can not [----] hear, but whose words speak to you. ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I5_p001.jpg) Letter 14 Sally:- This eving, (Oct. 7.) After waiting pa= tiently four weeks for a letter, I was astonished and pained, in the room of getting a letter, to see a "these words" on the margin of the Liberty Enquirer, Dated Sept. 15, mailed the 19th. It was written by Warren Graves, thus: se[--] "We received two papers and you said [--] directed to the Northern Times for you. I am well, and father's family generally. Your father's family:- you will hear the the state of their health by brother Peter. Hitty and Sarah are sick; your Mother had the Ague once at Father's" Of all the news I ever received, after wating so long, this was the saddest. What shall I say? What shall I do? _ Could you not have gotten have got some body to write, if you were all sick? I wonder if you sent a letter by Brother Peter, or any body else? A Letter by private conveyance! you ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I5_p002.jpg) might just as well put into the Missouri The post office was instituted expressly to carry letters. But then, again I mourn supposing you were all sick and not able to write: Could you not have got Henry Rollins or some one to have written a few[-] lines? I expected, after requesting you so much, to have received a letter every two weeks -but disappointment thus heart growing vagrant, has been my lot - O that it were otherwise! But what can I do?-- I received a letter this eving from Brother Covey and others, stating that Sister Stout had been got with child in a dultery by John J. Tanner. I don't call such a crime "adultery,' I call it "Fornication' -- which in my apinion can only be washed away by the water of baptism. The law does not say that such a sin is to be for= given- It aught not to be -- it is [----] ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I5_p003.jpg) Margaret my Dear News has arrived here three times of late that it is very sickly in Clay county this is sorrowful to us more especially to those of us who have families there but I hope you will be faithful in all things that you may escape which is my prayer daily if there is any sickness in my family you must not fail to write it for if you do I shall feel very much dis[torn page]ied with you. it is almost 5 weeks since I recd a letter from you and I anxiously looking for another, I sometimes fear lest you have put of writing on account of si[-]kness but I hope [----] is not the case, do not keep any thing back of the troubles of the family for how can I pray for [torn page]eliverance unless I know of your troubles my health is good and has been continually for this [torn page] thankful to God my Heavenly Father and [torn page] [torn page] [-]ay God in the Name of Jesus to preserve [torn page] you and the family from sickness and from all [torn page] other calamities and from sin of ev[-] description that you may be preserved blameless and walk in the path of rigtheousness faithfuly untill the end an[-] obtain all the comforts of life without ca[--] any to want and enjoy all the blssings both temporal and spiritual and that I may return and enjoy your sweet sosiety again in peace which blessings may God grant for Jesus sake and I say in the name of J[torn page]us it shall be done inasmuch as we are faithful even so. Amen The affair of Sister Stout is a very unhappy one I hope it will be a caution to others to be cautious how they conduct themselves and not to trust themselves in the hands of persons or any person so as to give them[--] the advantage over them, Yours in the Lord John Corrill I shall write soon, but I want to [----] one from you firt ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I5_p004.jpg) Oct. 8, 1835 Perused by S.J [following six lines are written at 90 degree angle] Kirtland Mills 0 [20] Oct. 8, 1835 Sally (W.W.) Phelps Liberty Clay Co Mo. ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I6_p001.jpg) [----] Public Oct, 27, 1835 Beloved in the Lord: That you may improve in god- liness and grow in grace, and prepare yourselves for the blessings which will be poured out, after much tribulation, I continue my letters unto you. and if you have as much joy in the Lord, while you wait for the goodness and glory of the Lord, as I have, you will rejoice, though I write but little. On Sunday last we had one of the Largest congregat[-]ions ever convene[-] in the house of the Lord. There was probably 1200. what added to the scene, there was a brother and a sister married according to the rules of the church as published in the messen= ger and Advocate. My heart felt for the Saints of Missouri. I longed for the day when, in Zion, they could [--]eet and partake of the sacrament of the Lord Jesus, confessing their sins, according to the commandments. Peter Dustin arrived on the 21st in[--]nt, having been greatly blessed of the Lord. Has labored in Canada, in the King's dominion, alone- and, the Lord working with him, he has bap= tized 32. [----] single [----] has been so greatly blessed. Peter went away, as I suppose [----] hea[-]ed and none of us knew where he was. The elders begin to gather in for their school which commences on the 2nd of November next. We are calculating to commence a "School of the Prophets" as soon as we can: We shall begin to study Hebrew this winter - according to our present calcula= ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I6_p002.jpg) Public tions. Zion and her redeemption is our greatest desire; and we pray and hope that the Saints who have been smitten and driven will be faithful and sanctify their hearts for the enjoyment of the blessings in store for them. We are sorry to hear that some in darkness, not living by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God. When Zion is built up and established, She will appear in her glory, and the rebelious shall be cut off and sent out of the land of zion. (see Book of Covenants page 147, Sec. 21. par. 7) Brethren, remember that the religion of Christ, is not a play thing: the law of the Celestial Kingdom is perfect, and the Saints must abide in it, in order to inherit His glory. If there be any that can not, or do not live accor= to the words of wisdom, they have no claim on the Lord for temporal Salvation, when he sends for the [----] pestilence to waste at noon day! Depend upon it the Lord will try his saints as he has said even "unto death," for all thus will not endure chastentening, can not endure glory -- So man can run away from the religion of Jesus. in all ages of the world, it has stuck to men as c[---] as a brother. When the world rose up to curse Israel; they had to bless them- no matter whether the children of Israel keep all the commandments or not: No matter the saints in the days of the Apostles keep all the words of eternal life or not, the religion of heav= en was the same, and the curse fell on the ungodly for their unbelief, devlish, acts ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I6_p003.jpg) Public Oct. 27, 1835. and the saints have to suffer or receive chastisement, till they over come and are pure before the Lord. The word of the Lord is sure and never fails. There is nothing to hard for God to accomplish: Though heaven and earth pass away none of his precious words ever fail: Then, brethren, be entreated by one who hath not power to utter how great will be his joy to meet you in Zion, when the curse is taken from the earth, and the glory of God rests upon the habitations of his saints as the Cloud over Israel: Search the scriptures daily; Read the Commandment Continually, and study the book of Mormon carefully -- and pray unto the Lord for grace, wis= dom and knowledge, to guide you into all truth, and the Lord will have mercy upon you. When I look upon the House of the Lord, and recount the expense of the printing office here, I marvel to think how the Lord blesses us with means to build such a great house. And to carry on such a vast business. It needs patience [---] faith to live here: A great number of Elders are to be boarded and clothed, and there schol= ling costs considerable besides. We are also now establishing a bindery to bind our own books. We go on faith and the Lord blesses us, inasmuch as we rely on him; he has not faild us, nor will he, if we do our part.-- ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I6_p004.jpg) Public Brethren, prayer is a great thing with the saints. If you agree and pray in faith, and ask not amiss. how much you can accomplish by prayer. Every Saints should pray for the Redemption, pray for the purchase of the Land of Zion; that is, thus means may be had to buy the land, without the shedding of [hole in page] and if all the Saints of Missouri, pray in faith for this thing. and it will be Oct. 27 1835 done. for the Lord has said that where two or three are united as touching one thing (in righteousness) it shall be granted. Now brethren, don't let the Redeemption lag for want of your prayers Brother [-]ifford arrived this week in good health and spirits. The elders from Zion who are here, are well, and many of them are busily en= gaged upon the Lord's house: Great exertions are now making to have it plastered this fall out side and in side. The news which I received, and which others received of the abate= ment of the sickness among the Saints in Clay Co. has greatly revived us. We pray earnestly for you and for [---] [----] redemption of Zion without the shedding of blood, which [---] [--] [---] [---] for his [---] sake. I have not sooner to call the brethren sisters by name. All that keep the commandments faithfully to be saved I love and commend to God, but the murmuring and rebellious have need to repent: which may God grant, and preserve the faithful in peace To the saints as ever W.W. Phelps ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I7_p001.jpg) Extract from my Journal. Nov. 28. Saturday. [--]ing thy feelings to Justice daily, that no vain passion may abide in thy breast. Sent my 19th Letter to my Sally, in Mo. Read proof of the Hymns: Josiah Clark arrived from Cincinnati. Cold and Snowy. Offered my prayers, 29. Sunday. He that acts wisely at all times is truly a great man. The Snow fell about a foot in depth. Old fashioned times; Sleigh b[-]lls Jingle merrily. At M[---]. Talked Some. 30. Monday. Rash deeds often bring leisure repentance. ___ Prest. John Whitmer had a Son born unto him. Dreary winter weather. Engaged in the office, writing &c. &c. December 1. Tuesday. He that Speaks seldom, offends less than he that speaks much. Engaged in the office &c 2 Wednesday. Be with the Lord in Spirit, and the Lord will be with thee. Dreamed that I went home, and Sally was pleased; she smiled and I smiled; then shook hands with her and Sabrina &c. Read Revision proof of the hymns. and commenced a Letter to President Whitmer for he[---] 3 Thursday. Never meditate evil against thy neighbor, lest thou be paid in calamity. Engaged in the office &c. 4 Friday. Never promise more than you can perform lest you disappoint some one that may rise up and rend you. Rainy night. Bad going. Engaged in the office &c 5 Saturday. Be good for the sake of eternal life, not because men p[---] [-]irtue. Writing for [---] [---] [---] 6 Sunday. He that shrinks from the Justice of God in this world, may naturally fall by Judgment in the world Dreamed [illegible] [illegible], &c. Went to meeting; School house So crowed that I could not get in, forenoon nor after noon. Studied the Revelations. Cold raw weather. Elijah Fordham arrived. ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I7_p002.jpg) 7 Monday. Never trifle with sacred things, but be steady minded. Copied my letter for the Messenger & Ad= vocate. Brother Juberg Durfee arr[--]ed. Cold winter weather 8 Tuesday. Poverty and sickness are descendants of pride; To escape these dreadful estates; live according to the "words of wisdom." Snowed about 3 inches deep- prepared copy for Messenger & Advocate. Commenced my 20th l[-]tter to Sally. wrote upon it in the eve[--]g. 9 Wednesday. To live happy live holy. Prepared copy for the Messenger & Advocate. According to my daily custom prayed in Secret for my family & the church in - Read 113th Psalms, 10 Thursday. The greatest blessing parents can leave behind them on earth, is posterity- following after them in h[-]liness to glorify God. Engaged in the office and in arranging petitions to the Governor of Missouri. Pleasant weather. Board Kili[-]n burnt. 11 Friday. Be familiar with thine "only one." & deal treacherously with none. Engaged in the office at various things. Moderate weather. 12 Saturday. When you see one in a passion, check him with pleasant words, be ause water is better than wood to quench fire. Dreamed that I went home. "Sally was pleased, She was dressed in her black frock; She asked me if I had ever seen a ten dollar Wheeling Bill? I told no. I went out doors as there were a great many that wanted to see me, and she sent Hilly with the bill. Hitty looked healthy but white and Slim." In the office. Fair Day. 13 Su[-]day. He ever ready to die, or live, and you will never be disappointed. At meeting. Weather moderate 14 Monday Three things we should love with all our mights; Our God; our Country, and our rights: In the office winter yet. Fine meeting: two companies organized &c &c 15 Tuesday. There are three things that happify & sweeten life: Religion, learning, and a virtuous wife: Dreamed ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I7_p003.jpg) 85 of being at home, and preparing for great satisfaction - saw Sabrina. &c. In the office: Received names to the pe[-]i= tion to the Governor. Weather turned very cold & blustering 16 Wednesday. A plain heart is above a private one, and knowledge is far preferable to gold. Attended a feast at br. Z S. Coles. There were about 60 of the guests - a number were blest by father Smith. Among them [----] Br. Fordham, King Follet and and Jesse Hitchcock. This was the first and greatest Blessing feast I ha[--] ever attended. The greatest solemnity, and harmony prevailed. The victuals was good. the company; though many were youth, was orderly: we sung "There's a feast of fat things. "Adam-ondi-Ahman- "O behold the Lord is nigh" &c The greatest wishes of the guests were - That we might soon celebrate a feast on the land of Zion. Weather [-]ery cold. 17 Thursday. A little in peace affords more Joy than abundance in trouble. Received Sally's 7th letter at 10 o clock.# Helped set out the president's Message. worked late. 18 Friday Good advice, like a shower after a dry time is cheering. Assisted in getting the message. cold weather. # I received your letter with Joy, because I had waited a long while for it. The news that you are all well is delightful. And what you have written that is wrong; I forgive. Though If you disdain my "praise", I should like to know how you will endure the Lord's glory? As to do= ing it "by the word of mouth," our lives are in the power of God, and where is your assurance that you will ever hear my voice again? Pause for a moment. and hearken to him to who has sent you money and clothes and prayer with all his heart. O find no fault with any one - If they have sinned - forgive them. ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I7_p004.jpg) From the East. The mail this Morning, (Tuesday the 15th) brought the following letter:- "Smyrna, 8 Dec. 1855, Chenango co. N.Y. J. Whitmer, Esq: - Sir, The publication you send to this office is not taken out. Mrs. Brewster, the person they are directed to, has moved to the State of Indiana -- she has been gone from this place since l[--]t fall. Yours &c. H [---]cott P.M." This was rather strange news, according to what I had heard, but my opinion is, that Lydia has con= cluded to live with her husband, who owns land in Indiana. I Shall try to find out what town she has go[-]e to, and write to her. Martin Harris has just arrived from Palmyra; he states it is severe winter in the State of New York, and has been for about four weeks. The sleighs fly merrily; and the people are ten times as wick= ed as th[-]y ever have been. Martin says "every thing is dear; all are proud, and restless:- mobbing common: quite common; even in Palmyra". - So the world waxes fat in iniquity; and are hastening on to ruin. The work on the house goes on quite rapid again. Br Fordham, Br Durfee, Rathburn, Morey, Hitchcock, and Elder Calvin Beebe, have lately commenced working upon it. The committee made a con= tract with a man to Warm said House till the first of April [---] [---] placed in the cellar. A[--] [---] heat twelve cilindars; 4 on the Court four the Sacrament; 4 in the court for the School of the Apostles, and 4 in the Attic school rooms: If this plan works well, it will save wood and save trouble as to fire. Again it will be of great ser= vice to warm the house for the hands that work upon it. this winter; and for the Hebrew school when it commences. Weddings are very plenty: about half a dozen have been ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I8_p001.jpg) in righteousness, will do so. Is it because a woman is all talk, that her husband values her? "A Continual dropping will wear away st[-]nes". Is it because a woman is hand some, that her husband loves her? "Handsome is she, that hand some does." But enough on this head for the present. I have heretofore cautioned you against letting any one copy certain documents and blessings. Many good things are not written to you, because there may be a "Philistine heifer," like Samson's, to copy it and send it to the four winds, and innocent saints must suffer the consequence. I want to give you an idea of the or= danation of those who are sent as especial witnesses to all the world: Don't let any one copy it, Sally; read itto the pure in heat and none else." Kirtland Jan. 3 1835 "The ordination and blessing of E--- F ----- "Brother: - We lay our hands upon thy head in the name of "the Lord Jesus, and we ordain thee an elder in the church of "the Latter day Saints, praying our heavenly Father, that he will "bless thee with all the blessings of this mininistry; that thou "mayest be a messenger of righteousness to the nations, and that "thy heart may be prepared for this high calling of God. Thy "heavenly Father loves thee and delights in thee, because thou "wast of that member that offered to lay down the[-] lives for "their brethren; and [--]cause thou hast done this thing there "are many and great blessings laid up for thee if thou art "faithful. Thou shalt go forth and proclaim the gospel. Thy "tongue shall be unloosed so that thou canst declare the things "of God to those to whom it is the will of thy heavnly Father to "send thee. And it is not only his will to send thee to the people "of this continent, but to nations afar off, even to the Islands "of the Sea, and to nations thou know[-]st not of, that the word "of the Lord may be fulfilled: "How beautiful upon the mounta[-]ns ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I8_p002.jpg) "are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings; that publisheth "peace; that bringeth good tidings of good; that publisheth Salvation; "that sayeth unto Zion: Thy God reigneth!" " And because thou wast willing to give thy life unto thy "heavenly Father, and regarded not unto the death: Therefore thy "life shall be bound up in the bundle of life with his life; and "God ever thy God will give his angels charge over them, lest at any time thou dash thy foot against a stone. Thou shalt go and return as may seem good unto thy heavenly Father, and nothing shall have power over thee to prevent thee from fulfilling [---] ministry, which we this day bestow upon thee in the name of the Son Jesus: For the heavens are dispo= sed to be very propitious unto thee. The Lord will make thee swift messenger unto Her nations: And thou shalt bear his name to people afar off: Thou shalt testify unto them of the things which thou dost know; for thine eyes shall see the glory of the Savior in the visions of heaven: and holy angels shall minister unto thee, and make known unto thee, the mysteries of the Kingdom of heaven; and thou shalt testify of it to many nations and peoples, and that in other than our own language, for thou shalt have power to speak in many languages, that thou mayest do a great work in this day and generation, and have many stars in thy Crown in the day of re[--]cing. For notwith= standing thine enemies will seek thy life and art brought into many trials and tribulutions, still thou shalt have many seasons of great rejoicing, for the Lord will pour out his spirit upon thee, and give thee exceeding joy in the midst of all thy tribulations. And if thou art faithful thou shalt fulfil thy ministry and return to the land of Zion with songs of everlasting Joy upon thy head,- to go no more out: yea, to take part in the ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I8_p003.jpg) reign when Christ shall reign on the earth a thousand years. All these blessings we seal upon thy head, if thou art faithful, to gether with many others, (for the heavens are full of blessings for thee) which it is not wisdom at this time to mention, but none shall deprive thee of them: Even so. Amen." Thus you have the substance, Sally; and do be wise, f[--] when I learn that you [---] careful to do as I write to have you do, then will I be encour= aged to let you have "things - precious". A grand Council Jan. was held last Wednesday consisting of the High Councils of 13 Zion and Kirtland together with the "Twelve", the Seven presidents of the Seventy; and the two bishops and their Counsellors, besides others: It was one of the most in= Jan 14 teresting meetings I ever saw. The next day I sat Jan 14 in Counsel with the presidency to Draft Rules for the Jan. 15 #1 Lord's house. The next day we held another Grand Council Jan 17 much more interesting than the first. On Sunday, at an early hour all Authorities of the Church regularly or= ganised meet in the School room under our printing office, and the president's commenced the meeting by con= fessing sins and forgiving their brethren and the world. You now the Lord's prayer reads: "forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those that trespass us." The Lord poured out his Spirit in such a manner as you feast [---] [----] [---] I was speaking, which was but few words, the Spirit of the Lord came upon me so that I Could not speak, and cried as little children cry in earnest, and the from my eyes run in streams; the audience, which was the largest ever convened in the said room, Sobbed and wept aloud: The presidency, and the "Twelve" occupied the forenoon. There was speaking and singing in tongues, and prop= acying, as an the day of Pentacost. In the af= ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I8_p004.jpg) 100 noon, the congregation became so large, that after the 3 weddings, which I noticed, were Solemnized, and the sacra= ment administered, the meeting was dismissed. I then went with a number of the Church, to Elder Cahoon's to par= take of the wedding supper. It was a solemn time, Singing and solemnity - Sister Whitney, president Rigdon, and a num[---] of others asked me "If it did not make Jan 17, 1836 me think of my wife to be in such good company? my tears answered and "I cried to think I might rest; in the day of trouble!" our meetings will grow more and more Solemn, and will tell the great solemn assembly when the house is finished! We are prepar= ing to make ourselves clean, by first cleansing our hearts, forsaking our Sins, forgiving every body, all we ever had against them; and by washi[-]g the body; putting on clean decent clothes, by annointing our heads, and by keeping all the commandments. As we come nearer to God we see our imperfections and nothingness plainer and plainer. I can not write my thoughts to you. I can only say in the name of the Lord Jesus, Sally, Sally! Children, Children! Saints, Saints! if you ever mean to see me in the flesh be holy, be humble, and Solemn. O Sally! O Children! hear the voice of him who loves you, and let your tears till [ineligible line] good my dear Sally. [-]f you have any money by you that you get for Covenants or anything else, do not lend it out; for I may give orders for it you know not when, and besides you might not know who to trust, and who not. I feel Sensible that you will be careful. If you have bank bills get them changed into hard money. The charter of the United States Bank expires on the 4th of March next. One month has passed without sleighing. It has been mud and mire, and cold and warm, ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I9_p001.jpg) The Hebrew school has commenced in one of the attic School rooms, in the Lord's house. These rooms are nearly all completed. The whole work continually progresses, though but slowly. I can not tell when the endowment will take place. Therefore I can not say any thing about the Redemption of Zion, or bring you new tidings for her children: You all know "Zion must be redeemed with judgment," (that is, wisdom and prudence)" and her converts with righteousness". _ We must be very [---] [---] a prayerful, and watchful: You know what the Savior said to the Seventy, Luke 10th chapter 17, 18, 19, & 20 verse so likewise, let us not rejoice in the goods of this world, nor boast of our faith and works, but rather that our names are written in heaven. If we could see each other's faces now, and converse about heaven and divine things, it would seem like the meeting of Angels, and we would hate to part in one short hour - - but - the Lord [---] not said when we shall me[--] again, in order that we may be proved, and found faithful: which may God grant [---] [---] mail brought a number of letters from Clay this morning: Among them one for me, Dated Dec 10. I immediately called the bishop and his counsellors on the subject, and we shall write on the subject, again this week. My great anxiety for my family and friends causes me to answer this day. Tell Peter H. Burnett that I sold the other keg of printing Ink at one dollar a pound. The kegs contained 50 lbs each; though [---] of [---] in this may have run out. It can be weighed. With your letter came one thus brought the melancholly death of Elder Christian Whitmer. It made a deep impression upon his relatives and the brethren. We are solemn. God have mercy upon the Saints in Zion. prepare the living for life and the dying for eternity. ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I9_p002.jpg) The letters, accompanying yours from Elder Harris: 93 Br. Childs & Cleminson are greatfully rec[--]ved and duly appreciated. Br Childs is answered on an= other page. On the subject of writing letters to the Saints, if I had ever so much a mind to, I could not write oftener than once in 2 or 3 weeks for want of time. I want to Study Hebrew, and I have not as yet been able to begin. Oliver is gone to a State Convention at Colum[--] and one thing and another keeps me back. -- You want to know what made me write concern my letters. I told you in my ne[-]t. I am not Jealous of you, Sally, but I am Jealous that Br Fosdick is not right before the Lord. Your letter of Nov. 20, contained some things which were wrong and I forgive yo[-], as I wrote. What you [---] [--] of Chlo[-] was contrary to the covenants. See said Book page 125, sec 13. paragraph 23d when you said she had influced or "prejudiced" Br Corrill's mind, you stated a falsehood, as you will see by Br. Corrills you say to me: "don't praise you" and then you praise Br Littlefield. A virtuous wife should not praise other men in the absence of her husband. All I want is that you Should do so no more. And write to me that you was mistaken, and "thus you [---] [---] you have offened, and will do so no more." Now, Sally in the name of the Lord Jesus, be admonished to let alone other folks business: Forgive them if they are where you can not see them face to face. Don't praise other men to your own hurt. Don't undertake to write explanations: you can not make any ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I9_p003.jpg) satisfaction. When you write to me, write as you did at first: simply about our own concerns and the general welfare of the brethren and sisters. If any slander you or our children, and do not make amends, let them alone till the Authority of Zion returns. Don't be so studiously careful in your letters to avoid saying anything in my favor, or of sharing a little more love for me than the [----] [----] world. When I read your November letter, I was almost tempted not to write any more letters - but I don't believe you meant any hurt, and I can not say that I think any less of you than I ever did. And you know how [---] [---] [---] The high Council and elders of Zion meet to morrow evening to fill the vancant places of Councillors. It will be a good meeting to see all the Elders of Zion together They are all well. I ne[--] not name them. give [--] best wishes to all the saints. and so I am Sally [-]helps For even thine W.W. Phelps Kirtland Mills, Tuesday, 2 P.M. January 5, 1836 Dear Mother, brothers & sisters: - I now have [--] [----] to write to you I am well excepting a bad cold. We have [----] bad weather here at [----]- I am expecti[--] to go to "Writing school" to [----] [----] long as[---] the time when I shall see you all = in good health, it is now bout eight months since I have any of you - the Lord has been merciful to e many times and blest me- Give my respects to all that know me and may the lord bless us all Farewell till I see you all again at home. W. Waterman Phelps [following line written upside-down on bottom edge of page] Jun. 5, 1836 ----- new page (VMSS810_S1_F1_O1_I9_p004.jpg) Jan. 5, 183[-] [---] They bring persecution upon us, and we have to suffer many straight things because there are "foolish Virgins" a= mong the wise. I hope the children of Zion will learn wisdom by experience, after a while, and please God rather than gratify the whims of Such Philistine heifers. as Sam[-] son's. The elders wi[--] in the regions of Zion, if they pray for one another, and assist one another, and bear on anothers burthens according to the Scriptures will soon become (and justly too) Mothers in Israel, indeed! yea, [---] [---] people the Kindom of the Lord, with a race of Just men made perfect by righteousness; loving the truth because their deeds are good; and walking in light because it shines from heaven. I am not finding fault with the Elder's wives to whom blessings have been sent, but I wish to caution those that are for ever grabbing little and great things and writing them to, they know not who! So save trouble, such practice should cease. I want Little Lydia should be honored, in my absence- with a birth-day family feast: The best you can get Therefore on Monday the 14th day of March, [---] [--] her and make a feast to the Lord for her good, and pass the day in a sacred prayful manner. I am not making a precedent but I want our youngest child honored before God, thus she may grow up without sin; and whenever the Lord shall grant my return, then all our children shall be honored with a feast before the Lord Mark my advice, and be wise and holy [---] Christs sake. Br. Child's wife will write to him what she will do. Elder Palmer of New Portage, saw her and says there is no danger, she will do any thing, but her friends are violent. The New Portage church are calculating to remove to Zion next season. and they will bring here if requested, means sent, and she is wil= ling. [-] The High Council [----] a president of the teachers to be chosen Bishop Partridge will advise on the subject. ----- new page (VMSS810_S2_F2_O1_I1_p001.jpg) Liberty Clay Co. july the 29th 1835 Dear Husband I sit down to write the third leter to you and let you that we all well but, james has got the ague and ihop thes few lins well find you in joying the same blessing feeling anxious hear from you and to let you that james is sick and to let you know that sean write alittle not with standing you was all most made with your self to think that you did not makeme write more when you was at home. I think you will feel difrent when you git my letters if you can rad them ifind that ican write but it is hard worke for me to write you know that i never p[-]ctice mch I have had all ways something else to do if could write as well as you can it would not be such taske for me Igit tird some timis allmost to think that I can not write no letter for wone will come in and say are you going to write this weak to Brothe Phelps the Childrin say why dont you write oftin ner to Father all the tine I gite is arrights i have so much worke adays to do the Childrin goe to school thay Learn very well Sarah and Henry thay are atrying to Learn thair Books so that will bein en titled to some more. Sabrina is adoing very well in her chool thay want her to keep six monts I git along way well so far I have Som troub les but with the helpe of the Lord igtalong with them I try to do the st that I can so that imay inherit the blessing that are p[-]epard fo[--] the richous and to set example before the childrin and Brethren that it may worthy to imitatide I can say that you and Waterman have [--]ny prayrs put up to the Lord that he will bless you and prserve tht you may return home to you family and in joy thair socity again, you want [---] to answer you[-] questions have the corn is good someof it is twelve feet hi wea had green corn this some time our gardin is midlin good wa[-] have aplenty of potatoes and beans and som sweat potatos I have not got nomowny of Mr kelley he has not had enny paper yet he did not wantutil he paid for the rest & I have got Mr Lu[-]nkames recipt l h dolars by the hand [-] of of Brother Fourd am it [-]as eight ninty eight cents I want the house shingled over Brothe[-] Music has gone to the garrison to worke now he may posibly do it he dos not drive buissness much you left your gun in can poor hands Ira has toake en charge of it now it was nearly spilt but it be fi[--] Ira is afaithful Brothe he is all ways to work he has cleard of all the land and sowed some of it to turnips it keeps him buissey to do for both familys I must say won word about [-] Rachil is badly aflicted she not able to work but alittle She has not the use of one arme ithinke she is atrying to Steddey the arch wea can hear her pray [-] nearly to our house sometimes idnotcallit secrit payr the B[-]ethre are genrilly well sister march and i half bin up to sister carters and maid her aviset and to Brother abbots I had a good t trifling viset and when wea caimeback s opped to Cy[-]es Daniels heis lite minded Samira sed she wished sombody would give him a real pealing will you know her do send up ahim a good word that be the best I think Little Lydia groos fat and p[--]ty she sets alone jaimes groos poor he has bin sick a weaik or more he say tell Father i[-]m sick Sarah has bin baptized [-] If you write to the Bretren iwant you to send me r some lettes by them selves some[---] times and send some good wrd tell Waterman hemust remember his Sisters and Brothers and mother at prsant I do not think of anny more so must close my leter W W Phelps my the Lord be with you and so remain yous Sally Phelps Brother jacob Gaits want you to send him the Messenger and vocate all the numbers and he will pay me her Sister Shaw wants you to send abookof covenents and she will pay me the monny ----- new page (VMSS810_S2_F2_O1_I1_p002.jpg) Dear Brother I take this opportunity of writing you a few lines to Let you know what is going on here Bro Reed Puk and myself have this Day returned from Jackson Count- we were subpoenied on your suit or Bro Partridges; we left here this morning about Day Light and arrived at Independence [-]/[-] pst 8; we saw Beese and he informed us that our Testimony would not be required and that there would be a change of enue taken we tarried their about 1 1/2 hours and came home unmolested; so we see the Lord is able to protect[-] us when we call on him in faith believeng, Bro Wm. Leg Died on the 24 of this month with the fever, strong in the faith I believe, it is a general theme of health here; tell Bro Carvell his family an all well and doing well whitney is at Bro Sanfords mostly children Father was one of the nubers; [-]mare [---] of Ca[-]n is great and is thought there will be needed, there is 6 or 7 thousand Lamanites expected up this summer; the in -habitants even the Line one and[---]ed off immediately, supposed to be 50 families, for fear I shall take up too much room I shall add no more July [--] 1835 Alvin C. G[---] P.S. Sister Lantredge wishes you to take out her Letter if Bro L is absent ----- new page (VMSS810_S2_F2_O1_I2_p001.jpg) Carson Valley July 7th/53 Dr Father & Mother I write to let you know I am well & doing well we have had hard times coming through this year we had a large Drove of Cattle the waters were high which hendered our speed a great deal I got in with E Wade & T Campfield messd with them and enjoyd myself first rate I am as yet with Mr Egan and think I shall remain with h[-]im till he returns he thinks of staying here 2 or 3 weeks before we go over the Sierra Nevada Yesterday I wrote a few lines yesterday sent it to the P Office post the Mail on the road did not find out the mistake till this morning I have been pretty steady and hope to remain so I believe I have gained the good will of all I hope your health has been good please write and tell me how you have got along this summer and when Henry left for England and tell me if the times have been good It is doutful if I shall return this fall unless you should send word you wish me to Mr E Richardson was returning so I embraced the opportunity of sending by him I hope this will suffice I will write afew lines to Albin[-] & Lydia I have written a few lines [--] on the other side I remain yr Affectionate Son James Phelps ----- new page (VMSS810_S2_F2_O1_I2_p002.jpg) Carson Valley Dr Sister Lydia and Albin[-] I arrived here July 4th well & hearty but rather fatigued from the tedious journey yet I have been well and enjoyd myself at times first rate and hope you have been well & happy The weather has been rainy and Cold but now is very warm I heard from Thomas P Williams by J Green that is just arrived from Sacramento also Geo Grand he tells me she is well and been doing well enough so to get Lucy back they say you can rely on it I hope it will you not trouble them any I did not learn when he would return or any thing about it I hope you will not forget to write to me and tell me all the news give my Kind regard to all inquiri[--] friens not forgetting the Gels I do not know when I shall return it will depend just on circumstances I remain yrs Affectionately James Phelps Please direct yr letter to Sacramento Recd Oct 7th ----- new page (VMSS810_S2_F2_O1_I2_p003.jpg) [no text] ----- new page (VMSS810_S2_F2_O1_I2_p004.jpg) Mr W.W. Phelps Gt S L City Utah Territory ----- new page (VMSS810_S2_F2_O1_I3_p001.jpg) Lydia ----- new page (VMSS810_S2_F2_O1_I3_p002.jpg) Dear Brother [--] Sister It in and through the mercy of a kind God that I yet live and amspared amid the [illegible deletion] ravages of death and I am spared through so many scenes of sickness as I have passed and am able to work as hard as I ever did and thanks be to God for it his merces are over all those that him and bless his great and holy name [--] received a letter from you Oct [---] that your family is well and we are all well hoping these few lines may find you all well [--] [-] it [-] rejoiced my heart to hear from you onnce more this side of the grave and a boundless eternity. I shall now give you a dascription of our family Benjamin has bought the Salmor Andrew[-] place and live there and has six children and Eliza[--]th lives in Canada Tallot Street and Destrict of London and has nine Children eight boys and S[-]an[--] Ann is married we have had a letter and Ann lives in Carlton Orleans County has five Children One by her second husband Selah B Beardlee Oren live[-] in Sidney plaine has four Children Mary live and [-]one yet and Ruth lives where Edward Lo[----]d lived and Willson has bought that pla[-]e Joshua and [-]orton work a way from home Eliza and Willson [---] Com I [illegible words] Mc Graw Ville there is those meeting houses in that place, I want to see you all onnce more while I live but we are seperated never more to see each faces again in this world but I hope we all shall meet meet around the throne of heaven where we shall part to meet [--] more ----- new page (VMSS810_S2_F2_O1_I3_p003.jpg) I want to hear from all especially Sally and Sabrina and Mehattabe[-]l Do all write as soon as you can my mind is lost when I think of never to see your family again [--]ther and Mother want to see you all but if you want to help them or see then you must come and see them or what you do do quickly [illegible line] leave us for they soon must die [----] think of the parents of our Childhood where is our Fathers family they are gone and seperated to and fro but are all a live for what I know, a[--] can you believe the religion you profess is that the way th[--] Christ marked out for his Saints to [--]lk in she[--] me the place where mormonis[-] sprang from there shall be false pro[----] and false Crist in thes[-] last day saying [-] here is Christ can [--]u believe you are you are wright and you say this is the way walk ye in it [---] bible tells me belive there not I must you you a dieu for this [-]ime and I say pray for me pray without ceasing William W Phel[-] Sally Phelps M[-] Gran Ville Dium ----- new page (VMSS810_S2_F2_O1_I3_p004.jpg) Rev William W. Phelps Far West Cadwell County Missouri [following two lines of text written upside down at the bottom of the page] [---] 1, 1837 [illegible line]