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, Nov 1906 MSS 7952 [notes by transcriber are in brackets; pre-printed text is indicated by bold] [ltr. 1, p. 1] The London Conference. 97, Farleigh Road, Latter-Day Saints. Stoke Newington, N. ——— London, November 3rd.......1906 My Own Dear Millie and Ruth I have recieved three letters from You this week, two from Mamma one from Your Papa and Mamma - one from George one from Harry one from Melissa and Zina - Your last letter came last night about nine oclock while I was writing to Your Papa - we also received the Des News telling of the terrible storm which You briefly mentioned in Your letter Mamma also made mention of it - say Dearie it will not be necessary for You to go to the expense of sending Me the Des News, becaus we have it come to us twice a week, and I always look it over carefully, I helped get dinner Yesterday and the fellows have offered Me a job as head cook, but of course they wouldnt pay what a first class cook is worth so I wouldnt accept the job - So You got the photo and you dont like Me with a mustache, well You see it makes Me look fatter and in fact the people over here think it improves My looks however if You dont like it when I get home it wont take long to shed it - Ruth dont know her Papa She thought it was only a Man sitting in a chair, bless her darling [ltr. 1, p. 2] little self. No I dont look exactly the the same but I think that is better than I look - I have sent you a proof of one More natural, which shows all the blemishes, but the saints dont like it they say it looks to cross and isnt at all natural of Me, so thare You are I thought the one [-]under the fig tree was just fine of Me but it is not like Me according to the Saints becaus it looks cross - Maby that is the reason I thought it was good - it is the best of the two the one standing is unnatural becaus we didnt have camera focused just right, but I will send You one of them when we print some More and I will stick it on a card I will also send our doll baby one all for her self so she can get acquainted with her Papa, So You think the only way You could be compelled to fast 70 hours would be, when You were where You couldnt get any thing to eat - well Dearie I did get hungry especially the first two days but after that it was not so bad, I didnt get weighed right after the fast but I guess I lost about ten pounds, it hasnt made any diference in My weight in fact it has becaus I am still a couple or three pounds lighter but I am feeling better - and have done every since I begun eating again [ltr. 1, p.3] [The London Conference letterhead] 3 Now Dearie You must’nt worry about the length of My Mission - I dont think it will be much longer if any than two Years - it is a very few who have had to stop longer than this time and Many of them have gone home just before two Years so dont worry I will trot home just as soon as I am released unless You come over, it was Elder Alfred Nelson that left the pin at the BeeHive it was just a little dutch pin - I thought She would like it, Stevens is like all the the rest - he went as far as B A Sears which is only a little ways from where You are I would like to see Ruth find her doll she is a regular little Mother and I would like a good romp with her - and her Mother Yes I guess the tribune is rotten and I wish something could happen the whole rotten bunch - it does make Me hot when ever I see and hear of these things so I try and learn as little of them as possible - well Dearie I feel just as You do about people taking more wives and I think they should be cut off the church and they would be if some one would bring their case before the proper authority I have no patience with fellows like You mention, but they will come [ltr. 1, p. 4] to the end of their rope one of these days - it is not the lay members of the Church that the world is fighting but it is papa - he is the one the devil is after. Yes the City government is rotten I got the papers you sent - the reports are the same as what we got in the Semi-weekly, Dearie it is now time for our priesthood meeting so I will close for this time C W Penrose is in Liverpool come to take Prest Grants place I am well and hope You are free from Your colds I love You both with all My heart and soul and May the Lord bless and watch over You all give My luve to all and kiss our precious baby for Me and tell Ruth to hug her Mamma for Papa - with lots of love hugs and kisses for You both I am as ever Your affectionate husband and Papa Alvin x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x [ltr. 2, p. 1] 97 Farleigh Road Stoke Newington London My Own Dear Millie and Ruth Tomorrow is Wednesday and mail day - so I thought I would begin writing to You to night, it is now six thirty and mutual is at eight I have been out sight seeing nearly all day with Brother Baliffs folks, His family came over on the same boat as CW Penrose, and He met them in Liverpool they came to London last evening and expect to go on to Germany tomorrow, Than Smith Uncle John Henrys sone - is here he came over on the same boat, and is going to labour in London, we also have a Man by the name of Mason from Bupelaw Co - I called on [ltr. 2, p. 2: blank page] [ltr. 2, p. 3] 2 them to speak Sunday evening and it reminded Me of My first attempt the two of them occupied two including time coming from their seats, and that is about the same fix that I was in My first time up, we got home from sight seeing at 330 it began to rain before we got in and it has been coming down in sheets every since and the wind is howling and I wouldnt be sur- prised if we would get a good storm like some the rest of the countries have been having, I had a talk with Bro Baliff He has been in Liverpool several days and comes back with the report [ltr. 2, p. 4: blank page] [ltr. 2, p. 5] 3 that Andelin is now undecided about getting Married, since reaching Liverpool he has received a letter from home telling him that, they wont send him anymore money adn that He had better come right home Miss Clark Has received a similar letter they neither one of them have anything save it be debts, and Miss Clark borrowed quite a sum of Money from Kearnes to begin with I am not sure whether she gave him anything besides her note for the payment or whether the note was all He got as security? I told Bro Baliff what I said to Andelin about papas sermon and [ltr. 2, p. 6: blank page] [ltr. 2, p. 7] 4 and He said I did right, that Papa didnt tell half the truth about them, that they got off eaisy, and that it was a good thing for the Mission that Papa said what He did. President Grant has refused to Marry them so I guess they will have to go home or starve to death President Grant an family expect to leave Liverpool about the 23rd of this Month Yes Frank has gone home and I guess He has called to see You by this time Dearie I believe He will call to see You, becaus I prom - issed Him that if He would let You know, when He was coming You would give him a good dinner I see You are going after [ltr. 2, p. 8: blank page] [ltr. 2, p. 9] 5 Me for preaching to You as You call it, Never mind Dearie I hope some day You will feel diferent about - Miss - ions, it is no disgrace to be on a mission, in fact it is quite an honor to be considered worthy to come, You say You dont believe in a person being on a mission all his life I dont know who You have reference to - it cant be Me becaus I have only had 18 months thus far out of about 384 months So I have not spent a very big amount of My life in this way, You just read that letter again Dearie and tell Me what it was I said that was so terrible I dont remember My self [ltr. 2, p. 10: blank page] [ltr. 2, p. 11] 6 just what I said, You tell Me I am not respon- sible for what I have been writing the past few Months and especially dour - -ing August, and how I would write a little and think the rest, that is to say I emagined that I told You certain things, well Dearie I guess My letters are a jumbled up mess and Maby I better take more time, write less, and get correct what I do write; So it has been trying to snow, well I guess You must expect bad weather at this season of the Year, I could stand anything better than smoky fogs, they nearly kill me off - but I got a letter from Chase Yesterday and He [ltr. 2, p. 12: blank page] [ltr. 2, p. 13] 7 reminds Me that this will be our last season of such things, I have read of the terrible wind storm You have, Heavens knows it was bad enough but it might have been worse, it played ned with some of the sectarian churches didnt it - Mutual time Dearie - will finish this later. - November 7 - Election is over who won? You speak of the weather being cold and how Ruth hates to stop in doors, Mamma told Me that when she went up the other day Ruth was out side and when she saw Mamma she called to You that gang Mamma was coming, You will have to watch her now that the winter is coming, I do hope [ltr. 2, p. 14: blank page] [ltr. 2, p. 15] 8 You are both free from Your cold - You say You had - Ruth finds all kind of things to do in order to get out doors, Say Dearie I made some fritters and they were just fine, we expect to try it again one of these days, I went down to the depot with Bro Baliff and his folks this morning they have gone to Paris - and from there they will go to Zurich, that is where the headquarters of the German mission is and that is where Brother Baliffs people will make their home, He has been here three years and expects now that his folks have come over that he will be here another two or three [ltr. 2, p. 16: blank page] [ltr. 2, p. 17] 9 Years, this is the second for him the first time he was gone two and a half Years, about the best Elder we have in the London Conference is here fulfilling his third mission and twice he has come and left a family, this time he he has left a wife and six children and he expected a letter from home yesterday telling him of the arrival of another - in his family He is somewhat worried becaus the letter has not come His name is Saren Peterson and He is one of the finest Men I ever met, well Mamma I I think I had better close for this time, before I use up all My paper, becaus [ltr. 2, p. 18: blank page] [ltr. 2, p. 19] 10 I dont wish to weary You, I have not had much sleep the last two nights with the crowd we have had the last two days has necessitated us doubling up, the Boss has been sleeping with Me I wish I could sleep like him, his head hardly hits the pillow until he is sound asleep - and the worst feature is he snores - and it kep Me buisy nudging him all night long - I couldn’t sleep a wink - but I will be alone again to night, So will try and wake up for it, I never have slept very good for a long long time I dont know why it is but I guess I am diferent [ltr. 2, p. 20: blank page] [ltr. 2, p. 21] 11 to most people the house could fall down and some of these fellows wouldnt be any the wiser, we are going to have a house warming, next Monday we expect about a hundred people here - Saints & friends we expect to have a jolly time, I wish You were going to be here, You dont know how I long to see You, but tomorrow Makes 18 Months in London and it was 18 Months Monday since I reached Liverpool Chase and George both asked Me to remember them to You and Ruth I believe I told You that George expects to be home by the 4th of July next, Sid Sewill leaves here for home [ltr. 2, p. 22: blank page] [ltr. 2, p. 23] 12 on the 23rd he is going over to Paris to visit for a few days with Elder Shepherd He leaves today. He asked Me what He should say to My wife for Me, I told him not to Make any promisses becaus He might makea liar out of him self like lots of others had done, I told him I did’nt trust any of them, so I dont know whether he will call or not well Dearie give My love to Your Papa and Mamma and all the folks Kiss Ruth for Papa and tell Ruth to Kiss Mamma for Me, I do love you both better than all the world - May the Lord bless You and preserve You from all danger &sickness is the prayer of Your loving Husband & Papa X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X Alvin X X X X [ltr. 2, p. 24: blank page] [ltr. 3, p. 1] 97 Farleigh Road Stoke Newington London My Own Dear Millie and Ruth Old England November 10th 06 I received Your letter #114 on Thursday and I was glad indeed to hear that Ruth was over her cold and I wish You were better also, So You think Mamma saw enough of one part of London goodness Me what Mamma saw wasnt a patching, to what can be seen, especially when the weather is warmer, but even the weather dont make much diference, becaus we saw last night, sights just as bad as Mamma saw- and it was a miserable cold night - and it had been raining nearly all day too we had been out visiting Mrs Gran - -shaw and were on our way home that You have heard Me speak about and we saw them cuddled up on the benches trying to keep warm I suppose, but it dont take much of such sights to satisfy a person , Yesterday was Lord Mayor day in London we all went down town [ltr. 3, p. 2] and saw the show it was very good and the crowd was just as large as ever - and we got in an awful jam - millions of people were out and people from the buildings were throwing pennies among the crowd and street urchins were scrambling for them well You never saw any thing like it in Your life there is a new Lord Mayor elected every Year - his Salary is ten thousand pounds or $50,00000 and the job costs him about double his salary - it is a job of honor and the parade and banquet yesterday cost him about three thousand pounds and every time a person of any note from other countries come here they are his guests and it all costs money - they make a bigger fuss over him than they do the King - I am glad You have had a good fruit season - but what is the matter with the potato crop, there cant have been very many raised, - Yes Dearie Hyrum only does that to tease You He always was a tease and you shouldnt let it worry you, You speak of having no charity for him - goodness Dearie, nearly all of his time is spent in doing missionary work - and we wont worry about who is boss, I dont believe in bosses - when it comes to family affairs - love and unity is all that [ltr. 3, p. 3] 3 is necessary for happiness and we have managed pretty well thus far and I can truthfully say Dearie that I do love My You and we will Not cross bridges until we come to them. You should try and adopt some other means when talking to Hyrum, other than opposing him then You will get on alright, but just as long as he thinks he is worry- ing You He will keep it up just to tease you, we should have - charity for all, I guess I hadnt better begin preaching to you because you got after Me for doing it last time - so I will confine My self to answering Your letter, because I have only got a few minutes to get this posted - You mention Clark and Andelin I think I told You the latest news about them in My last letter, I got a letter from Alex the other day he wished to be remembered to You He also makes reference to A & C He is disgusted with them, and I said something about T Kearnes to - Yes Bro Grant leaves here about the 23rd. I am sorry You dont like the photo of Me - I am going to send You [ltr. 3, p. 4] another - which is just like Me so they say but I dont know - of course You will see much diference I guess in what there was when I left home in fact I dont look like the same fellow at all, I am just like an old Man in everything but actions I guess I have aged ten Years since I come away - I showed some of the boys a picture of My self when I am with Heu and they said well we can see that it is You when You were a kid - I asked them when they thought it was taken and they seemed to thing about 10 or twelve years ago just think of that so there must be a diference, So You must try and get used to these pictures becaus that is the way Your old man looks now so Ruth wanted to watch the boys play foot ball - and then decided to go down town - goodness You will have to watch her she is liable to get lost - well Mamma I will finish answering Your letter - next time becaus it is time this was posted give My love to Your Papa and Mamma and all, kiss Ruth for me and tell Her to kiss her Mamma for Papa may the Lord bless You both and all is the wish of Your loving husband and Papa X X X X X X X x x x x x x x x x x x x Alvin x x x x [ltr. 4, p. 1] [The London Conference letterhead] London, Nov 14 ...1906 My Own Dear Millie and Ruth I received another letter from You Yesterday morning Your noumber 115 and I just as pleased as usual - I got a nice letter from Elder Cummings Monday evening and he told Me he had called to see You but that Ruth being asleep He didnt have a chance to see her but he said he was going to call again, I wish You would invite him up to dinner some day then he can tell you all about Me and I am owing him a good feed and I expect You to square up this debt for Me, I have received good news from the Lawyers, those people are willing to give up and leave the house so it may come to an end before long, at least I hope it will, I went down to see them Yesterday and told them I would like it settled up just as soon as it could be, they intended - that is the people in the house intended fighting the case and engaged a Lawyer but [ltr. 4, p. 2] after he had gone to the expense of putting us to considerable extra trouble and expense - he saw that he had no hopes of wining out so he come and offered to, have his people give up if we would pay his costs which have been about $2500 dont You see he is just like all other lawyers- and of course he is in a position to put us to four or five hundred dollars expense if the case is taken into court - and there is no question but what we could win in the long run but rather than give up, in case we wont accept his proposition he will do this - so I think we will complemise with him, so I will tell You one of these days how we are coming along Salt Lake City must be in a rugged condition with all the streets torn up as you say, it is a wonder some body dont fall into some of the trenches So that they can sue the city - I see that - the Utah Light, and Salt Air Co are going to sell out, there will be lots of changes, in and around Salt Lake - with a New Union Depot - & Etc President Penrose came to London last night also Elder Allen of the Liverpool office they expect to be here several days and President Grant is coming down Friday - probably for [ltr. 4, p. 3] [The London Conference letter] 3 the last time while on this mission Sister Grant dont want to go home - and they are talking about going to Berlin for the winter She and the children, but you cant tell how it will come out, I guess that Sister Grant realizes that when she gets home she wont have much of Bro Grants company, and again I think they fear Bro Grant will be arrested for the same reason that Papa has although there is no issue from president Grants cohabitation - Yet those miserable scoundrels are apt to keep up their dirty work, Sister Grant told Me she didnt know BroGrant until she came with him on this mission and that this past three Years had been the happiest time of her Married life and I can easily believe her becaus he has been diferent to Most of the Men who have had more than one woman, So I dont blame her for not wanting to go home - and the children too, she said never knew much about their father until he came over here he loves them well enough but while home his time was so taken up with business affairs that he had not much time to spend with his family No Dearie I didnt mean that that photo didnt look like me I ment that it flattered Me, I think however there is a resemblance So Bro Nelson tried to Make You think [ltr. 4, p. 4] He had seen Me, Yes I sent him one of them - and I sent Hyrum - Liss and Mamma one - that is all I sent home, I will send you some More, some that we took ourselves and You can give the other folks one with My compliments, that is if they want one, I am sorry Nannie doesnt Improve faster but I am glad she has another baby and I expect to hear that Mamie has another before long and then Bertha - say but there has been a lot of babies born since I came away - No Dearie I dont know anything about Frank and Beth, I think she was joshing - never the less I emagin they do like one another a little - Frank is a fine fellow and I often used to joke him about her - I am glad You are having good weather, ours is quite the contrary, President Grant sent us word that he had received a cable gram - sent to him through the kindness of Ramsden & Co - the owners of the white star line, conveying the News that the Republicans won the county election, I hope it was general through out the state - I am so glad the dirty Americans got left we are anxiously awaiting the papers telling all about it, I presume the Trib is Yelling Church influence I am reminded of what You told Me when Papa started over here - how that they said - he had gone on a trip but that he had the election fixed before he came [ltr. 4, p. 5] [The London Conference letterhead] 5 away - and I guess You had a warm time - I do hope that Idaho went Republican, and that Duboise is defeated Say Dearie, You speak of going up to Berthas and of going over to Eva's I thought at first You had reference to Ev Tuds but I guess you meant Rulon Owens becaus You mention some of the Owen’s a little further down in Your letter, but for a minute I tried to remember when Ev Tud got married &Etc - she must be going to have twins! I wish I had been there to have dinner with You I am going to have a row or some- thing else if we dont have better grub here - it is a fright the way we live So Your Papa has gone to work at the Hospital - what kind of work is he doing - I hope Will Bruce wont Make him self sick over working, I am glad Your colds are nearly better do take care of Your self and Ruth and dont get sick - You ask Me a question about Me stopping here another I may get through with My trouble now, that was what made Me fear - I see You mention the offer that has been made Nonnie Tant, there was a mistake - made in the report, it may have been done apurposely however, but Mrs Tant told Me that Nannie had signed a contract for six Months to do concert work - three nights a week if she could stand the pressure, and [ltr. 4, p. 6] and that She was to receive one hundred <$10000> dollars each night - and her traveling expenses also Mrs Tants expenses becaus she is to travel with Nannie - this is quite diferent isnt it - You cant exactly tell about it becaus the Tants - are funny people to stretch the truth and especially Nannie, well Mamma I will try My hand one of these days at making a pudding, Say that must have been an awful snow storm - they had in Wyoming - it is disgraceful to think that sheets got off. He should have gone to the pen, that is where he belongs You ask how much I have gained - nothing - I am lighter! well Mamma give my love to Your Mamma and Papa and all the folks and kiss our doll baby for Papa - and tell Ruth to kiss Mamma for Papa I do love You both - and would like to see you I am well and happy I am going out to the poultry show at crystal palace tomorrow with Bro Allen - and maby we will got to the show in the evening - it has been raining most all day to day - May the Lord bless You both and preserve You from all sickness and danger - is the wish of Your loving husband and Papa x x x x x x x x x x x x X X X X X X X X X X Alvin F Smith x x x x X X X X X X X X X X X x x x x x x x xx x x x x x x x x x x x x x x [ltr. 5, p. 1] [The London Conference letterhead] London, Nov 17....1906 My Own Dear Millie and Ruth Here it is Saturday again and almost mail time and I am just beginning to write to You I was out late last night visiting Sister Granshaw and we expect to Baptise her son tomorrow I hope to see the balance of her family come into the church some day she has a good family and this is usually the kind of people who accept the Gospel I went out to the poultry show with Elder Allen, we enjoyed our selves very much - it was just as good as it was last Year but I dont think it was any better , then we came from the show and went and had a good dinner and in the evening He, Bro Penrose and My self went to His Majestys Theatre and saw Mr Tree in Colonel Newcome it was very good and it cost Me nothing Bro Allen [ltr. 5, p. 2] put up for it, Bro Grant is here in London he came last night and this Morning He asked Me if we would like to loose our hired girl, I spoke up becaus he addressed his remarks to Me, and said we would sooner give up our dirty cook, then the boss said we would sooner give up the girl than the cook - “We” that is what he said but He alone was the big “we”- however I didnt say anything to him but I told Bro Grant that Lillie would be pleased to have a chance to go to America and I was Satisfied if He would offer her a chance that she would go - so I stepped out and told Lillie what was coming and told her to be sure and accept the offer if it was given to her and she did so well we will now loose the best girl we have had here since I come to London, You see Dearie she [ltr. 5, p. 3] [The London conference letterhead] 3 She has been doing all the work and becaus she happened to be late once or twice with the meals the boss got hot and engaged the dirty old wash woman to do the cooking and, it made Lillie feel bad, and the funny part is we have never had breakfast on time since and the old woman dont know how to cook - and Lillie told the boss she would leave, and as luck would happen she has had this offer - the boss dont consolt us very often - and he is always making a mess of things but My time is getting short and I guess I can stand for a while longer but we will need a woman to take her place and we are going to have something say about it, when Lillie gets out there she will work for Bro Grants folks and she will call and [ltr. 5, p. 4] See You, we have some warm times at times but I cant stand a dirty cook and that is what we have got, so I guess for a time at least I will have to stand it, when the change was first made I told Lillie to do the house work and let the old woman do the cooking and the boss would get all he wanted, and she has done just as I told her, there isnt anything she wouldnt do for me in fact any of the good Saints will do things for Me, I have a pretty good Stand in with most of them, I had a talk with C.W.P. and he fears Papa will have to go to Prison but let us hope and pray that this will not be the case - give My love to Your Papa and Mamma and all and kiss our doll baby for Me May the Lord bless You both - is the wish and prayer of Your Loving husband & Papa with lots of hugs & Kisses for You both Alvin [ltr. 6, p. 1] [The London Conference letterhead] London, Nov 21st....1906 My Own Dear Millie and Ruth I received your letter of Nov 5th it came Monday morning and I was indeed pleased to hear from You again and learn that You are both well - Alex Nibley and John Taylor dropped in on us Sunday - and remained here until Yesterday - when they went on to Liverpool, Brother Grant wanted to have his son in law come and stop with him, a few days before he went home - Alex will be back here about Saturday - “Maby” I dont think he will but he said he thought he would, He wants Me to go over and spend Christmas with him - Sid Saville will be home about the 10th of next Month - He leaves here to day he asked Me what he should tell My wife, this was several days ago - and I told him I did’nt want him to Make a liar of him self by promissing Me he would call and see You he didnt know hardly how to take it but I told him I was only joking with him, but he has had people make promisses to call and see his people and then forget to do so - so after what I said, I would not be sur - [ltr. 6, p. 2] if he would call on You but we can tell better in about six Month whether he intends to keep his word or not, I heard yesterday that the Utah Implement Co had gone busted I am glad Harry made the change before this happened - this will make room in Salt Lake for a New Competitor to the Con Wagon, I am glad Frank Called on You, he told Me he didnt get to see Ruth - but he was going to make another trip becaus he wanted to see My baby he complimented Me on My wife but I think he fed you some hot air about Me, yes I think he has seen “Beth" but he didnt say" anything about her in his letter to Me, You think I am skinny - well I am not very fat, but I am glad if you are fatter than when I left You, it was never intended that I should be fat and I fear that when you get that post card that I sent in My last letter You will think I am skinnier than ever - So Ruth was pleased with her letter, bless her- to think that she always comes to You to get her kisses how I would like to give You each some in reality. So You are going [ltr. 6, p. 3] [The London Conference letterhead] 3 to go with Me when I go on My next mission - well Dearie - it depends to what part they send Me - I wouldnt want My wife and baby with Me in some lands again I would want them in others - with in another Year the Elders will be traveling in England with out purse or scrip - then they will be required to go as it was intended in the begining that they should, travel they will then have to depend upon the Lord and will have no homes as they do have now, You think it would take You too long to tell Me what You think of Me and religion well Dearie I some times read between the lines on Your letters I have not said very much, but, well it is not necessary even for Me to try and tell You how I have felt, but You have already told Me many of Your thoughts regard - ing this subject - even tho they have not been written in plain words Dearie I realize that Yours has been the hardest mission, and I know that You have had any thing but a pleasant time while I have been gone, but You have been just as much a missionary as I have -and I feel that the Lord [ltr. 6, p. 4] has blessed us both - and I feel to thank him that he has watched over You both and Dearie I continually pray for him to bless and protect You and we should all acknowledge his blessings I do try to but I fear I do not always appreciate all the blessings I receive and enjoy I hope Your Papa will not make him self sick by over working and I hope Your Mamma wont be troubled with her feet now that cold weather is coming on she should be careful how I would like to hear our doll baby say and do some of the cute things You mention, when she gets tired she says she has got sleepees in her eyes and she asks to be rocked to sleep, what a darling she is, just imagin her asking You to rock her bye bye - and think of her saying she would like to see Papa - I tell You her Papa would like to see her and her Mamma say Dearie I have not seen Sister Packer for some time I have been expecting that doll she was going to dress - but I heard that her Mother was sick so maby that is the reason she has not brought it so if those other two get home at right You [ltr. 6, p. 5] 5 had better fix up the black haired one for Ruth and I will send this on when I get it it is the same kind of a doll as the largest one that brother Jargenson took home, and we will try and find something besides a doll for Richard, I will try and send something home by Lillie - Sid didnt have any room to take any - thing so I didnt bother him I am glad our baby was able to find her Papa when you gave her the pictures - of us - yes Seare is a fat fellow - he can eat any old thing, I wish I could, - but I am funny about what I eat and any old thing dont do far Me - and if I could eat the amount that some of these fellows do and especially Seare - it would either fatten Me or kill Me off - but You must not worry about Me being thin so long as I am well - and thus far I have managed to retain good health - So You think You Your self could stand a good hug I am satisfied I could if I had You here to give it to Me - but just You wait and we will have one or two or a dozen - well Dearie Maby we should excuse Alice Reynolds - but - why [ltr. 6, p. 6] did she promiss so faithfully that she would - well she is like the balance that have made promisses - and I am satisfied She didnt mean it when she said she would call so I will class her with the rest of them and forget about it, until probably some time in the future when I meet her, I am sorry Annie Nibley didnt get up to see You She was ancious to see My wife and baby - Remember Me to Sister Adams - Bro Seare also sends Her his best regards - Sister Adams knows him - she sent her love by him to Me when he came away from home so You had a good time Hallione night, I wish I had been with you but I guess maby it was just a girl party- I think that is the night that they usually get to gether and have a night gown parade? So Ruth dont like stormy weather well I dont blame her, I wish I were where I could answer some of her questions when she is locked in doors - she ought to have lots of play things but they get tired of even these things, she is a precious little pet -, so Make still enjoyes going out with you well I would like to see even the dog - or any thing that is from home - well Dearie kiss Ruth for Papa and tell her to give Mamma a big hug for Papa - 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 loving and affectionate huband and Papa x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x Alvin F Smith x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x xxx x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x xxx x x x xx x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x xx x x x x [ltr. 7, p. 1] [The London conference letterhead] London Nov 24rd <24> 1906 My Own Dear Millie and Ruth Here it is Saturday again and and I am just begining to write to You I was out to Enfield last night Bro Seare and I went out to hold the regular cottage meeting, and we had a good time and a good feed, Sister Crofts always shows us a good time especially Me I have a good stand in with her, it was 1130 when we got home and it was 830 when I got up this morning, went down and had the same old thing for breakfast, - gosh but we have got a fine “cook, I think I told You about her well I am almost sick of the arrangements, She asked Me this morning if I would show her how to do one or two thing, “She dont know “straight up-“ I wish I lived with some one like Sister Croft she is a fine woman - she is just like a Mother to Me, in fact she claims Me, You see Dearie, it is the old [ltr. 7, p. 2] Ladies that I have the stand in with I guess it is becaus I am an old Man;, Yes Dearie I am sleeping alone and I would much rather be alone unless I could have You for a bed fellow, when Alex slept with Me the other night He put his arm around Me and asked Me how I would like to be sleeping with My sweet heart, I told him I would forgo the pleasure of sleeping with him to do so, and confessed that he would like to have his sweetheart with him he said he was sorry he let her go home and as for Me sleeping alone when I get home, I guess I will have to get on the best side of Ruth, that is if it will be agree - able with You, I will work it some how, but I would like to cuddle You both, but then we will arrange it some way Andelin has gone back to Berlin, President Grant said Yes he has gone back he had to go and kiss Arvella good bye,- of course he wont do any thing but kiss her good bye?? [ltr. 7, p. 3] [The London conference letterhead] 3 There is a question now whether Alex will come over here for Christmas or whether I will go over there I May go and Spend it with him that is alright Dearie what You said about My photo I guess You are right about it, I have changed - in Many Many ways especially in looks, I dont know why there should be such a Change in Me as there is but I fear that You will none of You know Me when I get back. You will think it is some one else, I see by this mornings paper that they have telegraphed the London papers as follows - “Four Wives too Many” Express Correspondent New York Friday, Nov. 23. Jos. F Smith, the president of the Mormon church has been fined £ 60 - for having married five wives Smith was arrested at the instance of his Monag amest brethren, and was tried by a Mormon court. He had previously been warned that his weakness for fresh matrimonial alliances was distasteful to many of his brethren to the church of which he is the head, He continued his reckless course, but at the birth of his 43 child the patience of his friends gave out and he was arrainged – [ltr. 7, p. 4] this is the way it appears in the London papers, and You will be able to see how much truth there is in it, but I hope he gets off with a fine only; Yes Dearie I sent some dolls home and I will send a doll buggy home the first chance I have but I fear I wont be able to get it there by Christmas, but will do the best I can, they are good buggies and I believe they will last just as long as I said, I dont recall what You told Me about Mr Marton, I see from Your letter You recognize him on the picture I sent You and You say he is the man You told Me about in a previous letter, but I have forgotten what it was You said, Yes I have been rejoicing over the election in Utah, it just suited Me, You say Papa telephoned to You and told You how to vote do You mean by this that he told You who to vote for, or how to manipulate the machine I should hardly that he would tell You who to vote for, You didnt say who was coming to take You to the poles, but I emagin they would be floating a diferent [ltr. 7, p. 5] [The London conference letterhead] a diferent banner, probably to what the rig would have had on that He would have sent - but I am sure he is pleased with the result of the election and it is evident the Democrats joined hands with the Republicans at this election, other wise they would never have been so successful - So thanks to the Democrats, I will give them credit for all the good they do, I am glad Eva Tud is satisfied with the beads they are more, expensive now and there is apt to be another advance, Sid Saville bought some for his Sister He said she had seen Yours and wanted some just like them, Say Dearie You must have thought You were writing to some one else when You said You put “Your” baby to bed and that she had woke up and was now waiting for You to go to bed with her. You know I claim an interest in her too. Yes I would like to see her play with Moke I am glad they are fond of one another, but Moke always did [ltr. 7, p. 6] like her from the time she was a little bit of a tad we thought at one time he would be jealous over her but he was just the opposite just emagin when You said You were sleepy to have her put her arms around Your neck and offer to sing You bye bye, I wonder how that would seem I would like to try it, well Mamma Dear give My love to Your Papa and Mamma and all the folks and kiss our doll baby for Me and tell Ruth to kiss and hug Mamma for Papa I do love You both with all My heart - and May the Lord ever bless and watch over You is the wish and prayer of Your loving and affectionate husband and Papa x x x x x x x x Alvin F. Smith x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x [ltr. 8, p. 1] [The London Conference letterhead] London Nov 28 1906 My Own Dear Millie and Ruth I received Your letter of Nov. 15th 1906 #118 and was just as peased as ever, the 500 bill came but You didnt mention it, or Say what I was to do with it so I guess it will go like all the rest of the money I get. I May go to Liverpool in the Morning to spend Thanksgiving Day with Bro & Sister Grant, I guess You will have a good dinner tomorrow and I would rather be home than any other place if I could be with My Mamma and baby but when I cant. I guess I will take the next best and be satisfied, Dearie I had a fright of a mean dream about You last night, I do hope you aint sick, do be careful and take good care of Your self and Ruth, I am well and I do hope You are both well I am writing this with a copying pencil becaus, there is no Ink in My fountain pen and, the [ltr. 3, p. 2] the next best is a scratchy old thing, It seems to Me Bill Bruce is a unlucky fellow - He has never told his folks Yet about hurting his ankle or foot. Say Dearie that was a very close call to having 9th East paved I am glad it was defeated tho I am glad Well Tud is out again that disease is going through their family isn’t it, but Maby it is a good thing if they all get as fat as You say John has got after it is all over, You speak of Ruth being a comfort to You, how I would like to share Your comfort You had a great time on the 13th I emagin it was something like Grand Concert when all the babies began to cry - and Ruth wanted to go home-, I am sorry You didnt get Your picture taken I would like one if it was only a Kodak picture, I am glad You enjoyed the play. So Ruth was pleased with her Dutch pin - bless her, She knows who sent it but I am afraid she dont know her Papa, but she will have to get [ltr. 8, p. 3] [The London conference letterhead] acquainted with him some day, while I was out tracting this morning a Lady got on the car and she had such a sweet little girl about two Years old and she was dressed in a blue Velvet dress and hord, and she was a regular little chatter box I just wanted to steal her, it made Me home sick, she was so clean and nice, I cant help it, but every time I see a pretty baby I have a Mania for wanting to get hold of them, dont You worry Dearie, when I get home, I will be able to live on any old thing It wont need to be cooked decent to suit Me, but out of consideration for You I will give over the job to You, I will just live on bread and Milk for a while, that is good enough for Me, in fact I emagin it would be a grand treat to get some genuine cows Milk, I am glad You are getting fat, I never expect to be fat - You ought to see Me I am the skinniest Mortal You ever saw and if I were to shave off My Mustache I fear [ltr. 8, p. 4] I would look worse than ever, so Jim Madsen and Jack Peterson have been called on Missions, good for them it has been eight or ten Years Since Jack was on his Mission but I guess they will both go - where do they expect to go - inland or foreign, tell Harry to wish them a happy journey and the blessings of the Lord from their old friend Alvin Say Dearie I am going to get Sister Grant to call on You when she comes home she is a fine lady and I wish You would get acquainted with her she has been good to Me her girls said they were going to go and see You - so dont be Surprised if they all give You a call - well Dearie give My love to Your Papa and Mamma and all the folks kiss our doll baby for Me and tell her to kiss Mamma for Papa - I do love You both with all My soul, take good care of Your self and Ruth May the Lord bless You and keep You well is the wish and prayer of Your loving husband & Papa Alvin x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x x [ltr. 9, p. 1] [The London conference letterhead] London Nov 30 1906 My Own Dear Millie and Ruth I have been out visiting the sick this morning - and have just got home, I am going to Liverpool Monday I didnt get off on Wednesday or Thursday and the Grants will sail next Wednesday, I got a card from Alex a few minutes ago he is now in Liverpool and expects to come back, throughe here tomorrow, He wants Me to spend Christmas with him in Holland, and I have another Invitation, to go out to Sister Crofts, so I think I will get Alex to Change his invitation until New Years so that I can have a good time both days what do You think about it? I know somebody I would like to spend My Christmas with can You guess who they are but there is a good time coming one more after this and I expect to have this privilege [ltr. 9, p. 2] Alex told Me what a good dinner they had at Liverpool and he says they all missed Me, it is nice to be missed isnt it, - but it is tough to miss such a treat, I telegraphed them that I wouldnt be there - they sent Me a special invitation too but I couldnt make it, so we bought a turkey and had a good feed here at the house, Lillie has left us she went to Liverpool this morning where she expects to remain until January 5th when She will go to Salt Lake - I will see if it is possible to send a doll baby buggy with her and if it is, our baby shall have one - I heard last evening that Sister Packer was sick this is the reason I have not had that doll Yet but I will try and get Lillie to take this also, it wont get there for Christmas but Ruth will be just as pleased with it when she does get it, I would just like to see her tend her dolls - it is nature for girl babys to like [ltr. 9, p. 3] [The London conference letterhead] 3 they were created to be Mothers the Lord made them for what purpose and they are born with that true Mothers love, I thought of You Yesterday and wondered what You would be doing and if You would have a good Snow storm to make it look like like Thanksgiving Day, I guess lots of the boys would go hunting when I look back and think of how I used to do - on this day, how that I would go off in the cold hunting and stop all day, and sacrifice a good Turkey Dinner, I wonder if I would ever do it again, we never miss a good meal when we get the Chance over here, but they were not such rare things at home and since we have been deprived of them, we know better how to appreciate them, well I hope You will all have a good time and give thanks to Him who as responsible for our very existance and for all have and [ltr. 9, p. 4] are, I have many things to be very thankful for, t 1120 PM well Dearie it was four PM when I left off writing at the cross since that time Bro Seare and I have been down to the hall and paid the rent then we walked down town and nearly back it was 815 when we got home since then we have cooked our supper and now it is nearly twelve oclock, it is Priesthood meeting the morning so if I dont finish this letter to night I will have to crawl out early in order to get it done, we didnt do very much shoppind from the inside but we took in most of the nice ones from the outside and there are some lovely ones, every body seems to be getting ready for Christmas, it dont seem like it aught to be Christmas when we dont have any snow, I would just like to see a good snow storm but then I fear many of the people would suffer if they had such a thing in this land, there are thousands of them that would perish - it May be in the providences of the Lord that England dont have any [ltr. 9, p. 5] [The London conference letterhead] 5 very seveer winters - and another thing that cold weather would be bad for is that is would throw thousands of Men out of work, and they have thousands as it is but I dont think it is so bad as it was last winter, there are plenty of beggars and street singers but nothing so many as there were last year, and it is reported that conditions are better this season than they were last and I can easily believe it from what I can see of the people, I will send You a clipping from to days paper from which you will see that America is not the only country that needs purifying, they didnt dare tell the worst part of it but every time anybody says anything to Me about canned beef I give them a good shot on the Conditions that exist here and they soon shut up, well all the boys have gone to bed but Me and I guess I had better ring off and crawl in My self, I had a lovely letter from Papa the other day I think I mentioned it in Your last letter [ltr. 9, p. 6] I was pleased when He told Me he had never been arrested but that he went and appeared before the judge with his own attorney before they had time to arrest him and they let him go on his own recognisance with out bonds, I think maby they thought he would try and run away from the law but He is not the running kind. I am so glad he got off with only a fine, this of course is bad enough but it might have been worse well Mamma I am well and happy - give My love to Your Papa and Mamma and all the folks and kiss our precious doll baby for Me and tell Her that Papa loves his Ruth and her Mamma - tell Ruth to kiss Mamma and hug her for Me, I can tell You I would like to do the job for My self, but I cant reach You just Yet May the Lord bless and watch over You and protect You from all harm and danger and keep You well is the wish and prayer of Your loving husband & Papa xxxxxxxx xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Alvin [ltr. 9, insert 1] [includes newspaper clipping insert]