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. Alvin Fielding and Amelia Smith Letters, May 1906 MSS 7952 [notes by transcriber are in brackets; preprinted text is in bold] [Ltr. 1, p. 1] The London Conference. 97, Farleigh Road, Latter-Day Saints. Stoke Newington, N. ——— London, May 2nd.......1906 My Own Dear Millie and Ruth Well Mamma I received two letters from You Monday - and I was pleased indeed to get them I went down to Bro Tauts Monday evening, I had been out sight seeing all day with Bro Bachmon and so we went from sight seeing right out there we had all been invited so President Jones brought Your letter to Me You see the second one did not come until after I had gone sight seeing, You did not Mention in either letter that You were or had sent Me some photos of the loveliest precious doll baby in this big world so You can emagin how agreeable surprised I was when that package of pictures came, well Mamma it was 1230 last night when I got home I had been out to visit Sister Tucker, it is her Husband that is now in Salt Lake she is a good little woman and I heard she was in very hard circumstances - and this is the reason I went out, well we have sent her a pound to help her out and buy some shoes for her children, I felt bad for her she is a proud little woman and when I talked to her she almost cryed- well as I was going to say when I got home I found the photos and papers You sent and I had a good bawl, but they were tears of Joy Mamma it almost made Me home sick, and how Much our precious dolly Ruth looks like You and she is such a big girl Yes she is changing She is the prettiest doll I ever saw, Oh how proud You must be of her and - and You do not know how proud I am of both of You I have been [Ltr. 1, p. 2] comparing Your pictures and O they are so much a like I do not know when I have had anything strike me like these pictures She is a regulur little Goddess. Bro Bothman said that these pictures had aught to have come when I was ready to go home instead of now, I wish You had been on one of the cards with her but but I guess You think I have so many of You but I will be glad when I can have the orriginals I will have the proofs mounted I think they are all good. I like the one You say is the most natural bless her, I guess You do feel bad about weaning her - and when You tell how she will plead with You and love You I can just emagin how You feel- I bet it is hard for You to refuse her but it is all for the best, but I hope You wont have to send her away nights, I dont believe You could stand that and I dont believe our doll baby would sleep with out her Mamma, Dearie I do love My Mamma and baby they are dearer to Me than anything in this world I am proud of them- I do love You both with all My soul, Yes Mamma one Year has passed since I left home one Year Saturday since I landed in Liverpool I will soon begin to go down hill- and wont I be happy when I am coming back to My loved ones, I am well again am feeling allright now I had a nice letter from Papa Monday- he was sorry to hear of Sister Everards death, it was a surp- rise to all of us it was so sudden Yes I have lost a good friend so have many other people, she had not been well for some time but she seemed to improve a little and then suddenly she was taken worse and never got over it I see from the paper that they made mention of it when [Ltr. 1, p. 3] [London Conference letterhead] Got My cablegram - So Groesbeck is running around with Flora and that crowd - he is a great fellow- his girl was not at San Francisco but I guess being in Los Angeles she will go and see the ruins before she comes home that was an awful thing we had the news here in London almost as soon as You did at home only not such a complete report as is conta- ined in the Des News, No I dont think Brown ever paid Sister E. I never heard of it if he did- So it is a Miss Sheets that Freebairn is going to Marry Yes I heard that Sister Frewin had been in the Hospital, Elder Beesley told Me all about it You know Bro Frewin expects to be his father in law one of these days, that is how I heard it, Yes Dearie the Tants can give a concert all by them selves they are certainly a wonderful family - mus- ically- they are all born musicians they are coming to America in June the girls say they are going to call and see You but they may forget by the time they get there but if they do try and get them to sing for You and if they give a concert try and go to it - I am glad Your waist looks so nice and I am glad You like Your dress pattern I will try and get You three more shawls in a day or two I think they have plenty more of them I would like to see Ruth feed the chickens do You remember how frightened she got when we put the biddies in her buggy that time. She will soon be quiet a help to You she looks just like a little woman [Ltr. 1, p. 4] I cant see enough of thes pictures of her and what a pretty dress she has on So Ed Ashton is is making some changes in his home I don’t think I would like the shingle part of his house but maby it will look allright when it is finished, what does that neighbor hood look like now, if I find another bargain in dress goods I will get it for Nell I have not been shopp- ing lately - I hope it will make You a good costume, I have not had a letter from Mamma for two Months Papa told Me both her and him have been down with Scratied I am glad they are getting better. Papa says Ruth and Millie are both well and he sais Ruth is a perfect little beauty and as bright as a bran new dollar” any body can see this from her picture and every body says the same about her Well Mamma it is almost mail time so will close for this time give My love to Your Papa and Mamma and all the folks and Kiss Ruth for Papa and tell her to Kiss Mamma for Me, I do love You both and send You both lots and lots of love hugs and Kisses May the Lord bless and preserve You from all harm and sickness is the prayer of Your effectionate husband and Papa Alvin F Smith XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX [Ltr. 2, p. 1] The London Conference. 97, Farleigh Road, Latter-Day Saints. Stoke Newington, N. ——— London, May 4.......1906 My Own Dear Millie and Ruth It is now eleven P.M. tomorrow Morning I am going down town with President Cannon and I will have to get home by eleven becaus we have our Priesthood meeting at that time, Elder Beesley has just come down stairs and is now calling Me a night hawk- and wanted Me to enclose a note from him becaus I would not write all he told Me too - he is a great lad he will be coming home next month and will call and see You, He and I went shopping to day and I got the showls I had to take two with a pink stripe in they are the must ones they have left I also got You a head scarf so there will be four in all and I will try and send them home this Month I am well and happy I have not Yet had a letter from Mamma I guess there must be something the matter with them - it seems like they have forgotten Me, I got a cable gram from Papa to day - about Sister Everards affairs, so I guess I will have a warm time in a day or two, especially when I get mixed up with some of these thieves and robbers, but let em come I will show them where they are a dont You say anything about this to anybody Dearie, President Cannon and Sister Lambert are back in London they were not well so did not remain long on the continent, they are both suffering at present with bad colds and I am doing all I can for them, I got a letter [Ltr. 2, p. 2 is blank] [Ltr. 2, p. 3] 2 [London Conference letterhead] from President Grant to night he and Sister Grant have both been quiet sick but are now improving I also got a letter from Alex Nibley this morning he is well and wishes to be remembered to You he wants Me to attend a conference which is to be had in Germany next Month and he said if I would go he would but I wont go, he also told Me of the death of Melvin Welker of Bear Lake Co Idaho from small Pox, this boy came over when I did and was a splendid missionary I saw him when I was in Holland and he was glad to see Me I feel so sorry for his folks - he will have to be buried over there, I also got a letter from George a few days ago he is well and sends last regards to You and Ruth, Say Mamma I was showing Ruths Pictures to some of our Saints Thursday evening after meeting and they think she is the sweetest baby in the world and Sister Crofts, the Lady that was so sick a short time ago made Me promiss I would give her the one wher she is standing on the chair the one You said was the most natural So I will have it mounted and give it to her, I hate to part with any of them they are beautiful and I am stingy I guess but it is becaus they are all diferent I guess, but they are nice and it was such a happy surprise to Me to get them becaus You never said a word about it, I get them out two or three times a day- it is hard for Me to tell which I like best, but I do like [Ltr. 2, p. 4 is blank] [Ltr. 2, p. 5] 3 [London Conference letterhead] that one where she is standing by that sofa or chair and then that one where she is standing sideways in the chair and the one where she is sitting in the chair well they are all the best - I never saw such a pretty baby before in My life I just cant quit looking at them and I have been comparing them with Yours and I think she is the image of You any body could tell You were her Mother if they saw both pictures, they at least some of them thought she had a look of Me and I considered it a compliment to My self but to Me she looks like her Mamma bless her and bless her Mamma You are the sweetest folks in this big world and I can tell You I am mighty proud of You both, and I do like to show people My wife and baby, and I have converted all these single fellows long since, and they wont be long getting Married when they come home. Nannie Tant sang at Albert Hall last Night - she sang the creation and made a big hit she has almost reached the top notch over here I hope You will have a chance to See her in Salt Lake this summer, Well Dearie I have not answered Your letters Yet but, will do so next time - I have them here in front of Me but I am such a long winded fellow when I start writing to You I am afraid You will get tired - give My love to Your Papa and Mamma and all the folks and kiss our precious baby for Me and tell her to kiss Mamma for Papa may the Lord bless You both is My prayer for You both with lots of love hugs and kisses I am as ever effectionately Papa [Ltr. 2, p. 6 is blank] [Ltr. 3, p. 1] The London Conference. 97, Farleigh Road, Latter-Day Saints. Stoke Newington, N. ——— London, May 8th.......1906 My Own Dear Millie and Ruth This is the 8th of April, just one Year since I arrived here in London at 97 Farleigh Road, this morning it is beautiful, the sun is shining and the birds are singing, the trees are all out in leaf and with these condition I guess every body should be happy, but once in a while even with these surroundings, things will happen that makes me forget all these blessings, and My case is no exceptional one. I received Your letter of April 23, I hope You are well; Dearie I love You and our precious doll baby better than My own life, Your happiness is My happiness, Your sorrows are My Sorrows, Some people can fulfill a mission and point to it as the happiest time of their lives, I have had some happy times there is happiness in working for the Lord [Ltr. 3, p. 2 is blank] [Ltr. 3, p. 3] 2 [London Conference letterhead] but I have had some sad times also, I realize that I am only a weak human mortal, and sensative, but I can not say that it has been the happiest time of My life, what is happiness fore one would probably not be for another, I am here upon the Lords work and I need encouragement but I will not complain any more. I am well, I am sorry Your Papa is so poorly. and I hope he will soon be well, blood poisioning is a very dangerous thing and he should be very careful, I am glad You have weaned Ruth I think it will be better for both of You, it must have been hard for You however, when she would coax You so pitifully, Yes Dearie Brighton is a Beautiful place, I would like to go down and stop a few days- No [Ltr. 3, p. 4 is blank] [Ltr. 3, p. 5] 3 [London Conference letterhead] I did not do the Baptising, at Brighton but I Baptised two persons Sunday give My best regards to Theodore Riser when You see him again, I believe I told You that I had bought the shawls I will send them to You before long I got a letter from Mamma Yesterday She told Me she had been up to see You and that You had been making her Silk dress over again. give My love to Your Papa and Mamma, Bertha and Joe Heu and Nell Al and Alice and all the folks kiss our doll baby for Me and tell Ruth to kiss her Mamma for Papa Dearie I love You with all My heart - I do hope You are well - May the Lord bless You both is the wish and prayer of Your effectionate husband and Papa- and I send love and kisses to You both, bless My Mamma and baby Papa [Ltr. 3, p. 6 is blank] [Ltr. 4, p. 1] The London Conference. 97, Farleigh Road, Latter-Day Saints. Stoke Newington, N. ——— London, May 11th.......1906 My Own Dear Millie Yesterday afternoon I received Your letter #75 and I was real pleased to get it, i hardly expected one before tomorrow, So now I will look for one more tomorrow night or Monday Morning, we received another Deseret News last night with a lot more pictures and accounts of the San Francisco Disaster, that was a most terrible affair, but our people escaped again and I understand the Church was about the first to contribute means for the assistance of grief stricken people of Frisco, and Yet our people are called the enemies of our country and our countrys people but the time must come when the people of the world must admit that they have lied about us and the paper states that the people of San Francisco look up on our people and Elders who were there as Mascots becaus of the marvelous way they escaped but, even in the face of such eviden- -ces, they attribute it to luck and will not give the Lord credit for taking care of them, but the people of the world give but little thought to these things Yet they are signs of the [Ltr. 4, p. 2 is blank] [Ltr. 4, p. 3] 2 [London Conference letterhead] times and fulfilment of prophecies which have been uttered many Many Years ago- but Wo unto those who will not heed these things the time is coming - when many more signs similar to this one will be given becaus the prophets of God have predicted it and we are told that not one jot or title shall pass away unfulfilled, Heaven and earth shall pass away but the Savior says his words shall not pass away if people would but read these sayings and acquaint them selves with them these thing would not be wonderful things read Mathew 24 Chapter and Luke 21st chapter and any of the writings of the ancient apostles and Prophets and we can see that these things must come but many will be like the parable of the foolish Virgins and becaus of having no oil in their lamps or not being prepared will have to perish well thank the Lord he has shown us these things in advance so if we are not ready the fault is ours and not his, but how indiferent people are to these things, but they are no diferent to what they have always been- and with all the efforts of the there is but few who care to heed these things - O if we can only be prepared -and [Ltr. 4, p. 4 is blank] [Ltr. 4, p. 5] 3 [London Conference letterhead] what a glorious thing it will be but what a dreadful thing if we are not ready- I thought I had told You what was the matter with Sister Everard - but You must excuse Me, the fact of the matter is I had the same impression with regards to Mamma but evidently I never told her either- Well she caught cold - from over working, being persua- ded to conduct a sale which took two or three days - for an old friend- she was quiet sick but went out and caught more cold then then she had some cold sores break out all over her face she was an awful sight, but even in this condition she went out calling the Doctor said the sores were caused by canker of the Stomach - she went out on Monday April 9thand that night she went to bed a very sick woman and never got any better but worse the doctor said it was Diabetes - mixed with old age and Etc but she did not seem to be in any pain but gradually sank away until 805The following Friday, I have been very buisy every since and I have got to go down to the Lawyers again Monday, the people who were living with Sister Everard are going to Make [Ltr. 4, p. 6 is blank] [Ltr. 4, p. 7] 4 [London Conference letterhead] a fight for the property and if I have My way they will get left and I have got one of the best Lawyers in London working on the case I hope they send some one over to relieve Me of the job however becaus it, is not the most pleasant one in the world Yes Dearie we read the report of the cange in the Apostles the next day after it happened they cable all such News so we hear about lots of things from home the day after it happens it was the Same with the earth- quake news we got all that the next day - but such a complete report as we have since received in the Deseret News, Say Dearie I have quit using Borax on My hair- am sorry I ever did it bleached it and served it just as You say - I guess I am doomed to be the only bald headed one in the Smith family- it is a caution I have been doing every thing any body would tell Me, So I am going to quit now for a while at least and see how it goes, So Ruth cries each time Joe and Bertha come down, bless her she does enjoy- company and going out - and Joe claims her does he well I expect he will have one of his [Ltr. 4, p. 8 is blank] [Ltr. 4, p. 9] 5 [London Conference letterhead] own before long and then He wont want to claim Ruth, So the Utah Imp want Heu to come back, well they dont appreciate a good man while they have him it was the same with the Con Wagon when he quit them, I guess He thinks it is about time I was answering his letter, but tell him I will be home in a Year and I will see him then So You You are glad You dont have to Kiss Me while I have a Mustache Y" Dearie You dont know how nice it would be - You would have something to tickle Your nose, I emagin it would be fine, but if You dont like it when You see it, off it will go, it is such an improvement to Me so every body says, that I think I had better leave it on, until I start home at least, Yes we had our picture taken -26 an one and .65 on the other I will send You one home one of these days if I can get some body to take it - So Ruth keeps Your Papa buisy tending her does She, well I guess he feels Young again having - her at home with him I would like to see her tend her doll it must be cute to watch her, I am glad she is getting over her jealousness She thinks she is big enough to li[--]d [Ltr. 4, p. 10 is blank] [Ltr. 4, p. 11] 6 [London Conference letterhead] Abas baby now well she is a big girl I think the pictures of her are the best I ever saw she is the prettiest baby and she looks just like You - So Mis Hart was in Frisco, I saw by the Paper that Frank was there and I wondered if it was her Frank - why did'nt she stop in Los Angeles I thought she was not coming back for 5 years or something like that, Well Mamma I am glad You are well, and I hope You may continue so Tell Ruth that Papa sends her a big kiss and You are to give it to her and I send You a big one to and Ruth is to give it to You I do love You both - with all My heart give My love to Your Papa and Mamma and all the folks and May the Lord bless You both and all is the wish and prayer of Your effectionate husband and Papa - with lots of hugs love and kisses for You both - as ever Yours Papa XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX [Ltr. 4, p. 12 is blank] [Ltr. 5, p. 1] The London Conference. 97, Farleigh Road, Latter-Day Saints. Stoke Newington, N. ——— London, May 14th.......1906 My Own Dear Millie and Ruth I received Your lovely letter Noumber 76 it came this morning and the lock of hair is just as sweet as it can be, how fine it is she is a regular little blonde- but I guess as she gets older her hair will be darker, I am going to try and get a locket to put it in- how does she look since You trimmed her hair, I would not clipp it I dont think but You know best- Yes we did have a good conference but I was glad when it was over but since then I have been worring about Sister Everards Estate and I will be glad when it is settled and I wish I did not have anything to do with it- So Harold Reynolds called to See You he sent the trunk key back Elder Beesley was glad to get it but he had to pay 10¢ on the letter. I am glad You got the lace but You dont dont say - whether it is as good as You wanted or not, there was some of it I am sorry I sent, but You can give that away to some body, did You want the insertion or would You rather had all lave - tell Me Dearie if it is not good enough then I will know the next time I buy [Ltr. 5, p. 2 is blank] [Ltr. 5, p. 3] 2 [London Conference letterhead] I took the sample You sent and I compared them I though the best I sent was as good as the sample but Men folks are not very good judges of those things, and it may not have been half as good, but next time I may be able to do better, I guess Harold will be able to tell You lots of storys when he comes down if he has time to stop a few minutes I hope he wont tell all the mean things I did to him - Harrold is a good boy - and a good Missionary he might tell You all about how he used to put Me out of the office now and again when I was not kind to him, He used to often challenge Me to wrestle - but he was to much for Me, Say Dearie how did You like that piece of coarse lace and insertion that was wrapped on the envelope was that any good, I think I marked the prices on all of it but when You want some send Me several samples with the prices and then I will get Something just as near in quality as I possibly can, Well Dearie You say that You suppose we had a nice funeral, but I think by this time You have received My letter [Ltr. 5, p. 4 is blank] [Ltr. 5, p. 5] 3 [London Conference letterhead] telling You all about it and we were glad when it was over at least I was, Say Mamma Chase sent Me his babys picture on a post card- I think he had some copied from a photo he got from home, She is certainly a little fatty and he is mighty proud of her and I don't blame him, Yes the Cusworth family got the money and by this time they are in Salt Lake and maby have been to see You when they call tell Sister Cusworth I got her Psalmody and I will send it home with Elder Beesley he expects to return next Month, So Ruth goes out Visiting with her Grandma or Aunt Bertha and enjoyes herself nearly as much as when You are with her I am so glad she will go with them, it makes it nice for You, Ha Ha that is another on Me- about Ruth getting her liking to visit from well Mamma Maby I will be better when I come home I guess I will have too- if You are not surprised in the changes in Me in many ways I will miss My guess becaus I am a regular gadder nowdays, but I was always so diferent in this respect to most every body there is no place like home for Me - especially if You were there but I am going to try and [Ltr. 5, p. 6 is blank] [Ltr. 5, p. 7] 4 [London Conference letterhead] be a little more thoughtful in the future You go up to Berthas quiet often and have dinner with her, I wish I could go with You I would like a good home made, home cooked meal, but I will be easy to Keep when I get back- any old thing will be good enough for Me I feel some times like I could almost do with out eating, there is to much sameness I guess in what we have to eat and it does not always appeal to My Stomach but we have plenty to eat such as it is and in fact we have a pretty good living Now and again I go down stairs and fix something to My liking. and usually I have to prepare sufficient for one or two of the other boys but I am o.K. and doing the best I can I am glad You are having good weather we have had several fine days and to day it is lovely out side but I am afraid it is to good to last, So Miss Eva H Owen is sick of house keeping allready, quiet diferent to office work, I am afraid She is not a very good house keeper anyway- So she is going up and Nan Owen also goodness they are making good time- it seems to Me - they are not as brave as You were no body knew You were that way and they cant feel any worse than You did [Ltr. 5, p. 8 is blank] [Ltr. 5, p. 9] 5 [London Conference letterhead] I am glad You are well and I am glad Your Papa Is almost better He should be very careful of him self - how is every thing at home how do You manage with the cow say Dearie what are You going to do with the lots this summer Hyrum wrote and asked Me what I was doing with them Say Mamma that was mighty cute in Ruth to say the moon was broke just think how three little minds and brain work- I bet she is a comfort to You bless her and bless her Mamma. Elder Saville just asked Me to remember him to You he is going to be clerk of the conference in Elder Beesleys place - Say Dearie I love You with all My heart - and I pray the Lord to bless You both continually and preserve You from all harm and danger -remember Me to all enquiring friends and give My love to Your Mamma and Papa Berth and Joe and all the folks -kiss Ruth for Me and tell her to Kiss her Mamma for Papa - tell her Papa loves his baby and sends lots and lots of loves hugs and kisses to You Both- and ever praying for Your wellfare I am as ever Your loving and effectionate Husband & Papa XXXXXXXXXXXX Alvin F Smith XXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX [Ltr. 5, p. 10 is blank] [Ltr. 6, p. 1] The London Conference. 97, Farleigh Road, Latter-Day Saints. Stoke Newington, N. ——— London, May 18th.......1906 My Own Dear Millie and Ruth I thought I would start a letter to You this afternoon I expect to leave here for Enfield in half hour to hold meeting out there this evening Elder Saville is to go with Me and it is time now that we were off but he left word that he would not be back for half hour and I have been out tracting- and have just got home, so if he is not here in about thirty minutes I will have to go alone, I would much rather remain home to day but it is duty before pleasure, I have not done any tracting for several days until to day I have been fooling away My time over Sister Everards affairs, I will be glad when it is settled I have not felt as good as I might the past few days, but I am not sick, I am going to ask to be sent out in the country, I dont suppose Jones will want Me to go but if he dont I will ask President Grant, the fact of the matter is I am tired of My quarters and think it will be better for Me, I dont see how I can go until after Sister E. affairs are settled but as soon as they are then I want to Move of course I dont want to complain but the Boss we have now is to easy going [Ltr. 6, p. 2 is blank] [Ltr. 6, p. 3] 2 [London Conference letterhead] and I believe I do more worrying than he does about affairs and if I get out of it then then My worry will only be Myself- we have no chance to study or do anything else - it is visitors visitors all the time untill I am thoroughly sick and tired of it and want to be where I can rest and be away from such conditions, I am willing to go where ever they wish Me to so long as I am away from 97 I am going to try and get him to put Me and a companion out at Brighton if he will, well Mamma it is time I was off Sid Saville is not back, I dont think he is very ancious to go anyway, So I will finish this when I come home or else first thing in the morning, May 19th Dear Millie- Sid got here just as I was going we missed the train and had to wait twenty minutes longer at the depot, we had a nice time at Sister Crofts she is real kind to Me and in fact all the Elders, we had a good meeting and we were blessed with the Spirit of the Lord sid spoke first and lasted twenty minutes then I managed to talk fourty minutes, and the time was gone, the people who attend are police man and half to go on [Ltr. 6, p. 4 is blank] [Ltr. 6, p. 5] 3 [London Conference letterhead] duty at 830 so we could not hold any longer after meeting one of the invest igators talk Me he was glad I talked on Baptism it was just what he wanted to Know about and I had convinced him, and that he was ready to be Baptized he has been investigating for some time, I dont know why I spoke on that Subject but I felt impressed too, well we next had a Spiritulist woman come in just after the close of our meeting she was mistaken in the time of our Meeting, but we had a long go with her and she I will see You again I am going to come every time to Your meetings. I went after her on Polygamy what do You think of that, I converted her “almost”? I tell You I shoot it into them when they grace me on that subject she is a very reasonable woman and she says she has belonged to almost every denomination and is disgusted with them all and ours seems the most reasonable - and that it is the truth she wants I told her she had some to the right place to get it, she is a jolly woman and I jolly with them, at least I try to gain their confidence and then I can say nearly anything I wish with out hearting their feelings, well Mamma I guess You will tire of this [Ltr. 6, p. 6 is blank] [Ltr. 6, p. 7] 4 [London Conference letterhead] sort of writing if I don’t stop- I am feeling better this morning I have begun taking a cold water bath in the morning I fill up the old Bath tub and crawl in and I believe it is going to be good for Me the water is very cold but it makes Me feel better after I get out I received a letter from Papa and Bro McMurrin this morning, or at least I got them last Night but I did not read over all the papers until this morning they have reference to Sister Everards Estate, well Mamma how are You and our precious doll baby I have no letter from You to answer but I thought probably I would have this morning but I got one last Monday and I hadnt aught to expect one quiet this soon, another Elder by the name of Gold has died in Holland from Small Pox his father works in the wrapping desk in ZCMI grocery department, we were all exposed here at the house by an Elder by the name of wood from Holland, I have not said anything about it to You becaus I did not want You to worry - he came here two weeks ago and we learned that he came from right among the disease, in fact he helped administer to Elder Welker just [Ltr. 6, p. 8 is blank] [Ltr. 6, p. 9] 5 [London conference letterhead] before he died, he said he disinfected him self with sulpher before leaving Holland -but President Grant telegraphed him here in London not to come to Liverpool - becaus the Law would not permit him to sail until he had pass so many days after being exposed so we had him here with us, he had been living right here for almost a week before we knew anything about it, but we were very fortunate not to catch the disease, Elder Wood has finally gone home and he has been congratulating him self that he escaped and we likewise have been congratulating our selves that we escaped also it is an awful thing Elder Nibley and Richards have been mixed up with it some also but have escaped thus far, Well Mamma give My love to Your Papa and Mamma and kiss our precious doll baby Ruth for Papa and tell Ruth Papa loves his doll baby - and her Mamma tell her to Kiss her Mamma for Me and May the Lord bless You both and protect You from with all My Soul You are more precious to Me than anything in the world I would like to see You a few minutes - but one Year has gone- well Mamma I am allright and hope You are both well and that the folks are also well - with lots and lots of love hugs and kisses for Mamma and Ruth I am as ever Yours effectionately Papa [Ltr. 6, p. 10 is blank] [Ltr. 7, p. 1] The London Conference. 97, Farleigh Road, Latter-Day Saints. Stoke Newington, N. ——— London, May 21st.......1906 My Own Dear Millie and Ruth I got Your letters this morning written from Salt Lake on May 7th just one Year lacking one day from the time I landed here in London and one Year and two days since I reached Liverpool, I was just as pleased as I could be with both letters, I could just emagin that I could see Ruth while she was writing, Say Dearie Your ink is not very good I could hardly read some parts of the letter and I guess You will think the same about this but this paper seems greasy in spots and it is almost impossible to make the ink show and maby this is the fault with Yours instead of the ink- Well Dearie i have been interrupted for a half hour I guess I told You about visiting one of our Saints and the condition I found her in this was one week ago to day. I dont know whether I told You or not so I will just mention it so that You will know - what I have been doing for this half hour, we Bro Bruce and I called on Sister Hobbs- who is a member of the church and we found her living on a low- or slummy part of town in the back part of a house and when she invited us into her home she only had three old chairs and nothing else hardly in the room and [Ltr. 7, p. 2 is blank] [Ltr. 7, p. 3] 2 [London Conference letterhead] it was a dungeon looking place, she was Making one of her children, the little , a coat and she was using her cape to do it, I asked her almost more questions than she could answer she has in addition to this room another small bed room - with barley anything in it and only one bed - while the Mother looks starved and she does not deceive her looks any the children are destitute of clothing - and like their Mother nearly starved all they had to eat the day we called was dry bread and a bit of tea, Sunday night was the first from the Friday before that they had had anything to eat, the old Man and looking for work and coming home drunk every night it was him more especially that I wanted to see - I told Sister Hobbs, I would give her some old clothes if she would send Hobbs after them She said she would have him come up after them the next day, but it has been a week and last night I saw his little girl- who is 14 years old and who tried to comfort her Mother by telling her - that she will soon be old enough to go out to work - I told her to tell her Father to come after the package and he came to night and I gave him a good talking too and I told him right out what a brute he was- and how he was starving those little ones, and spending the money for drink- when it would help feed and clothe them, I showed him just what he was and I think he saw him self plainer and in a diferent light to what he does when he stands before [Ltr. 7, p. 4 is blank] [Ltr. 7, p. 5] 3 [London Conference letterhead] a Mirror, I did not spare him one might - and told him that I was coming down again in a few days and if I found the conditions no better, that I would have him brought before the counsel and see if they were in favor of retaining him in the church I told him how he could quit the drink habit if each time he wanted beer if he had any love for his babies and wife to consider what that penny would buy for their comfort well I talked to him until he had tears streaming down his cheeks, I cant tell You all I said to him but Mamma - I cant describe the condition I found his family in O. how thank- ful I am that the Lord has been so kind to us - and how I do appreciate My home and love You and Ruth - I would sooner die a thousand deaths than be placed like some of the people of this big city, I am a hard hearted mortal but many times since I have been here I have had it softened, O. how blessed we are how good the Lord has been to us and how thankful we should be to him for all his mercies to us - it almost breaks My heart to see the way little baby’s are treated and the little mites - seem to be happy, but they know nothing about poverty and starvation and they grow up under cruel conditions and in Many cases both Mother and Father are drunkards- they are carried to the public houses by the parents - and taught to like liquor from [Ltr. 7, p. 6 is blank] [Ltr. 7, p. 7] 4 [London Conference letterhead] their infancy I have seen Mothers feeding the stuff to their babys when they looked to Young almost to be out of doors - but You cant judge age by looks - the children when give and six Years old dont look to be more than two or three how much better for them if they could die, You will think this an awful statement but they are innocent, while babys- and are of the kingdom of God but there is not Much chance for them when they grow up, - it Makes Me shudder when ever I see a person drinking any kind of alcholic drinks- and I feel to thank that Lord that with his help I have been able to leave alone every thing of this name and nature, we have had made in this house with in the past Month two or three quarts of cough medicine- pure Brandy and glycerine, and how the people seem to enjoy it - even when they have no particular cold this is a good way to create a liking for whiskey and is mearly a way people have of drinking but of course, when You use 5/6 whiskey and 1/6 glycerine it is cough medicine and not Brandy- I want nothing to do with such medicine- and I hope I never shall, - I guess I have told You enough about such things but Mamma it is mpossible to describe it, no one realises what it is like until they see for them selves- I visited what is called the sweated Industry Saturday next time I write I will tell You what that [Ltr. 7, p. 8 is blank] [Ltr. 7, p. 9] 5 [London Conference letterhead] was like - but I had better finish answering Your letter now I hope You wont get tired of this - and I guess I had better say while I think of it that I am - well I dont know why I forgot to tell You this in the previous letters but I am feeling real well now, - May 22nd 1906 - Well Mamma I got another letter from You this morning I will answer it next time, I was glad to get it - well though You go after Me again I have read the quotations from My letter, when You got after Me before I tried to find Papas letter but I had so many to look through and not knowing the date of his letter and without going over them all I could not find it and I did not rember the full particulars besides I have considerable to think and worry about, and probably I dont allow all these things to impress them selves on My Memory as I should - however I think You will have no trouble in the future, becaus I have requested that all dividends be sent to You in the future,- Now for Your first letter - You refer to only one Utah girl that You know being killed in San Francisco why did’nt You tell Me who she was, Maby You did’nt want Me to know. I presume Mr and Mrs Hart feel thankful that they escaped, So Bro Whittaker invited You down to hear the letters red in answer to the one the one the Bishopric sent to the Elders I was in hopes they would’nt read mine [Ltr. 7, p. 10 is blank] [Ltr. 7, p. 11] 6 PS. Brother Tent and his daughters leave London Friday 22nd they may call on You - and tell You all about Me I hope they will and if You have a chance to go and hear them sing do so [London Conference letterhead] in public, Say Mamma Bro Brince’s Son W G Brince Jr will probably call to see You, when he does take care of him if he wants to stop over night have him go to Mammas - unless You can take care of him at home there I expect he will go down to Salt Lake for a few days he expects to live in Ogden he will have a package for You, I read the account of the wedding anniversary in the Des News, they must have had a grand time I am glad You were there, Say Mamma get Me Robert Taylors address and I will write to him I guess You had a chance to dance, & with the Music You had it must have been a regular old timer - Yes Dearie Sister E. told Me one time she was going to leave Me something, I thought You and I talked about it one time at home, I wish You had it to pay, Your debt at the Bank but I guess it will take a Year or more before the will is settled - what on earth ails Sugar Stocks, well hold on to them, they will advance again some day I am sorry about Your Papas hand goodness he must be careful - I hope by this time it is improving - well Mamma I have gone the limit nearly and have filled up six sheet and have not answered Your letter so I will do some scribbling on the back of this in order to finish answering it, Say Dearie who is tending Your Papa and doctoring him he is not working surely, with his hand in that condition, well, I hope to hear that he is better next time You write and how is Your Mamma is her health good. You havent seen Mrs Berckle have You she used to call and see Me real often [Ltr. 7, p. 12] You know I can usually get a good Stand in with the old lady's but the girls dont care very much for Me, I do hope Mamie will be able to get through allright - it would be such a comfort to her, I guess it was Melvin Wills that You saw on the car- next time You see him remember Me to him, Yes Dearie I got the babys pictures they are just lovely, I have just been showing them to Elder Whitney, Spencer and Smith who are here on their way to Germany - Mr Wakley from Salt Lake Mamma knows him he has just come from America and he has been looking at them also- he is here on a visit- You certainly surprised Me with them but it was a happy surprise I have just this minute received a letter from Papa I will read it before I finish this - well papas letter is brief he is such a buisy Man - he said You and Ruth were looking well but Ruth is a little thin I guess it is becaus she is growing so fast Yes Mamma I wish I could hear her and see Ruth do some of her cute things - No Dearie I dont think they were paying Me a compliment when they said I was getting old I feel old Well Mamma May the Lord bless You and Ruth kiss our doll baby for Me and let he love her Mamma for Me I am glad she likes kissing, so do I give My love to Your Papa and Mamma and all the folks- with lots of hugs and kisses for You both I I am as ever Your effectioante husband and Papa Alvin [Ltr. 8, p. 1] The London Conference. 97, Farleigh Road, Latter-Day Saints. Stoke Newington, N. ——— London, May 25.......1906 My Own Dear Millie and Ruth I will answer Your letter #78 this morning - this according to the letters I have received is the 90th one and one You wrote to Me which I never received makes 91 that You have written since I came away from home, I have noumbered the envelopes as I have received them and I have two good sized packets tied up in My trunk. So Your Papa got held up by one of the tough girls at Conference time I guess Salt Lake can hold its own and with the present administration and the disaster at San Francisco it will be worse than it has for some Years - some of the boys from Salt Lake going through here to Germany as few days ago- said that the saloons were open on Sunday and all the gambling dens were running in full force - this with the houses of prostitutes aught to make our little City a pretty lively town, I saw by the London Papers the other day that the Church were going to Sell out the Street Railway and the Salt Lake & L Angeles Ry - the first at £5,000,000 pounds or 25,000 000 dollars and the letter at 100,000 thousand pounds I have not seen any account of it in the Salt Lake papers, but maby we have not had time, I wondered if it was so, but [Ltr. 8, p. 2 is blank] [Ltr. 8, p. 3] 2 [London Conference letterhead] I had no way of telling, So old Brother Whale is dead, well he was quiet an old Man, and he was a wonderful strong Man, just look how he got over the fact he had a couple of Years ago, that alone would have killed 9 out of ten fellows but I guess he is better off - how is the old lady and how is Mrs Bell, I never hear You say anything about her or Annie now days, So Bob Prices wife is going to come to England well I hope Mine can come also, I will do all I can to have her do so, I am glad Your Papa's hand is some better, and I hope it will soon be perfectly well - So Ruth can play croquett, well I would like to see her I guess she thinks her Mamma and Grandmama have'nt anything else to do but play ball with her, that is just like little babys, bless her, every body that I show Your and her pictures to think they are lovely, and they are I have had half dozen people want Me to give them one but I want them My self, So She stripped the tulips of all their leaves, that is child like she did'nt know what she was doing and Children when doing a job like that usually do it well, I would just like to drop through the gate and find her in the garden, but I dont suppose she would know her old papa, but she will [Ltr. 8, p. 4 is blank] 3 [London Conference letterhead] probably get acquainted with Me again some day, Well Dearie I went down to the depot Yesterday to see the Tant family off I sent some Photos to You by them I also sent to You through the more two unmounted photos or proofs please send them down and let Mamma see them, You might give them to her and You will have the mounted ones as soon as the Tant family get home, You will see how old I look when You get them, in the large group the sun was shining in our faces and I am squinting for further orders, but it is just like Me I am always squinting. Well Mamma I have just returned from tracting and calling on some diferent people, in connection with Sister Everads affairs I went over to the house again this morning, I found some Photos- one of Ruth one of My self and one of Mamma So I collared on to them when I got home here I found Bro and Sister Grant here Sister Grant has been very sick, but is better now I was real pleased to see her, Sister Grant has been real good to Me and I think lots of her she said she wished she was going to be in London a few day she would take Me to the theatre, I guess You would have no objections, besides she is our [Ltr. 8, p. 6 is blank] [Ltr. 8, p. 7] 4 [London Conference letterhead] old Lady, but she left with President Grant for Germany, at 930 this evening I have just returned from the depot I went with them I have been writting a line of this letter as I could, but I expect to finish it now they are going to attend a conference over there, I got a card from George this morning he wants Me to go over to sweden to their con- ference the 30th of June I would like to go but dont think I will be able to do so becaus I am very buisy and there is no telling when the Everard Estate and trouble will be settled Well Mamma George sends his love to You and Ruth, I have not heard from Willard for some time and I am Chase a card they were all well when they wrote, well Mamma give My love to Your Mamma and Papa and all the folks and kiss our doll baby for Me and tell Ruth to kiss and love her Mamma for Papa I do love My Mamma and baby May the Lord bless You both continually and also all the folks and protect You from all harm and danger, I am well and happy am getting along pretty good, remember Me to all inquiring friends - I send lots of love hugs and kisses to You both - take good care of Your self and Ruth, Bless My Mamma and Baby lovingly Yours Papa XXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX [ Ltr. 8, p. 8 is blank] [Ltr. 9, p. 1] The London Conference. 97, Farleigh Road, Latter-Day Saints. Stoke Newington, N. ——— London, May 30th.......1906 My Own Dear Millie and Ruth I received two letters from You Monday, one in the morning and another in the Afternoon, also Ruthies letter, I was so pleased to get them, but very sorry to hear that Your Papa was worse and that he has been obliged to have one of his fingers taken off. I do hope that this will eradicate the poison, how fortunate, it was not worse but how unfortunate he did not take Your advice and consent a competent doctor sooner and as You say he may have saved his finger by doing so - he must have suffered terribly and I can emagin how worries You have all been, I do hope he will have no more trouble You are a brave woman, to assist in the operation, women have more nerve than men when it comes to things of that kind, Blood poisoning is a terrible thing and if allowed to go too long is something almost impossible to cure, there is nothing spreads much faster, and we should never hesitate in consulting a doctor when troubles in this way - You will just have to insist upon both Your Mamma and Papa both doing as You want when anything serious is the matter - we must be careful and when people get old they dont mind as rapid ly as Young folks under such conditions [Ltr. 9, p. 2 is blank] [Ltr. 9, p. 3] 2 [London Conference letterhead] So Dearie You must just insist on them doing as You say, I hope Your Papa will be better by the time I hear from You again Yes Mamma I got the photos and I do like them all, I have had the proofs mounted I was surprised to get them but it was a happy surprise - people think she looks like Me until I show them Your picture along side of it then they say well she looks like both of us, but I think she is just like her Mamma and that is just who I always thought and wanted her to look like, they are the prettiest folks in the world, Elder Beesley told some people who are staying here at the house that they had a chance to see My pictures every day well I keep them right where I can see them as often as I like, the folks who are stopping with us is Sister Chipman and daughter from America Fork, and she has cooked one or two good meals for us and we dont care how long she stops she came over to get geneology, and has been in Sweden for nearly two Months she is now on her way home and is seeing some of the sights of London before going back, she is a nice lady and looks like home and it is so nice to see some one like this, she expects to sail on the 22 of next Month - So also does Elder Beesley, and he will be calling to see You [Ltr. 9, p. 4 is blank] [Ltr. 9, p. 5] 3 [London Conference letterhead] before long, now for Your letters I usually begin telling You other things until I fill up all My paper before I get them answered So Ruth is not afraid of chickens, bless her how cute to say that the chicken was broke it is wonderful what their little brains can think of - she must be a regular little chatter- box, I would like to hear her she must have had a good time, while writing - just think of her telling You, "Baby write Papa" well why should'nt she tell her that Papa is saving all her letters and I am mighty proud of them, I emagin she would waste considerable ink, but I guess she Must have just what her Mamma does when she writes, I am so glad she is weaned but I wish she would eat more, I can see her coaxing You to take her out and how do You manage to refuse her when she comes up and kisses You, I bet You have quiet a time, to passify her, bless her I would just like to help You tend her and as You say thirteen Months have gone and I hope to have a chance before long, I am glad the Cusworths called to see You and delivered My Message but, even this is very much diferent to delivering it Your self I drempt I delivered the same kind of a Message My self the other night but it was only a dream, but it will be a reality some day [Ltr. 9, p. 6 is blank] [Ltr. 9, p. 7] 4 [London Conference letterhead] some of the boys say they have been away so long that they have almost forgotten what their folks look like, and this is true espeically if You have no photos of them now with Me and some of the kids I have to think and when I get home they will have changed so much that my emaginations of how they look will be altogether diferent to what they do look like, Say Dearie I meant that Sister Frewin would be Wilfords Mother in law or step mother in law he is engaged to Bro Frewins daughter, I guess I got it mixed up in My last letter, So You saw Freebairn and his wife coming from the Temple was he laughing?
I think I would have had a carriage to take Me home, I would like to see the old boy he sent Me an announcement and at home card, when is Hiley going to get Married> it is about time for him, when You see Sister Frewin again remember Me to her they are fine people, Yes Dearie I got the money for the showes and I have also received the other $500 You sent Me I will spend a portion of it for You, I thought I would get You some hat trimmings and Send them home with Elder Beesley, he will be home about the tenth of July, well I hate to see the boys I like best go home but My turn will come one of these days and I will be just as anxious as them [Ltr. 9, p. 8 is blank] [Ltr. 9, p. 9] 5 [London Conference letterhead] Well Mamma I will answer Your other letter next Friday. I went to Covent Gardens opera house last night to see Grand Opera we heard "Carvso" the worlds greatest tenor singer the piece was in Italian and the title was Madom Butterfly - the singing was grand, and I may go to the derby this afternoon You know a English derby is a sight of a life time and they only have it once a Year and it comes off to day, some of the boys are going and maby I will go also, if I do I will tell You about it next time I write I am well in fact I feel better than I have for some time I am still taking cold water bath every morning and allthough the water is very cold they seem to agree with Me, I was sorry to hear that Martha is coming down with Whooping cough I do hope she wont have it bad be careful of our doll baby- and Your self- well My own Dear Sweet heart I love You with all My heart and kiss our sweet precious baby for Me and tell Ruth Papa loves her and her Mamma and Papa wants her to Kiss her Mamma for Me, Give My love to Your Papa and Mamma and all the folks and May the Lord bless You all, and heal Your Papa from his sickness - is the wish and prayer of Your loving and effectionate Husband & Papa with lots of love hugs and kiss for You both - Lovingly Alvin [Ltr. 9, p. 10 is blank]