St. Louis, May, 1850

Dear Brother,--The ship Hartley arrived in New Orleans on the 2nd of May, 1850, with a company of Saints under the presidency of Elder David Cook, who I think has discharged his trust faithfully. The Saints that came on the Hartley as far as New Orleans were generally in good health. They had very little sickness on board, but were much annoyed by the Irish passengers. The conduct of Captain Morril was most shameful: he did all in his power to make their situation as miserable as possible; and when they were holding their meetings he took particular pains to annoy them. The Lord reward him according to his deeds. The captain was very kind to some two or three of the females, inviting them into his cabin, and at the same time acting as a demon towards the rest of the company. This is one great evil the sisters have to contend against, namely, the imprudence of some who call themselves sisters.

The Saints have been warned, time after time, on coming to America to be careful of their diet, and of exposing themselves; yet, as soon as they land they commence eating fresh meat and vegetables, and drinking large quantities of water. The consequence is, that when they start up the river they are taken ill. This can be avoided by obeying counsel. The Saints I think would do well to provide themselves with spices, cayenne pepper, mustard, camphor, and peppermint.

I have delayed writing at New Orleans, as I was going up with the company to St. Louis. The second day after we left some of the Saints and others were taken ill with diarrhea. I immediately gave them some remedies I had provided before I started, and all were healed directly. The destroyer is abroad on the waters, and it requires the united faith and prayers of the elders to pass through the scenes that are before them. This I know by experience. All that came on the Hartley have arrived safely in St. Louis. Many of those who are apparently good Saints when they start away, when they arrive in New Orleans find fault with everything, from Brother Pratt down to Thomas Mc'Kenzie. I am now on board the "Era" on my way to the Bluffs, in the company of some good Saints who love and worship God. Praying God to bless you, I remain your respectfully,

Thomas McKenzie. [p. 217].

BIB: Mc'Kenzie, Thomas also Cook, David. Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star 12:14, (Jul 15, 1850), p. 217. (CHL)
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