. . . A letter from father stated that my wife's health is poor and I am likely to be released soon. No other word about it as yet.

On Tuesday, October 2nd, I received a letter from Brother H. W. Naisbitt, who presides in Liverpool in the absence of J. F. Smith, informing me that I was released to return home with a company of elders and Saints who are to leave Liverpool on the 17th of this month and that Henry Flamm was appointed to succeed me as President of the Mission. Elder T. G. Webber is also called home. Brother Flamm is up in Germany. I telegraphed him to come at once. This is a very busy week for me. All mission and office business must be in proper shape to turn over to Brother Flamm, some collection matters must be looked after, and Sister Inebrit, who with her little girl, will travel with us, must be informed about starting.

Brother Flamm hurried to Bern; I instructed him about mission affairs and turned the business over to him. Succeeded in collecting several hundred francs for Christian Witwer of Santa Clara, Utah, and on Oct. 13th Brother Webber and I bade folks goodbye and went to Basel, where we found Sister Inebrit and her little girl awaiting us. By traveling 2nd class we can avoid delays and save time. Brother Webber left us in London; he went to visit relatives. We arrived in Liverpool about 3:15 a.m. Oct. 16th. Remained in railroad station until after daylight, then went to 42 Islington. Learn our company consists of 130 emigrants and 13 returning elders.

There were several other passengers. Brother William Paxman of Nephi was appointed president of the company. He chose me and Brother A. [Abraham] O. Smoot Jr. for his counselors. It was decided that 9:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. shall be the hours of prayer each day; and that 10 p.m. shall be the hour for retiring and quiet. These regulations were approved by unanimous vote in a meeting held in the evening.

Seasickness soon began to effect the travelers. On the 19th the sea was rather rough. Many were seasick. Our president had to remain in his berth nearly all the time we were on the water. Brothers Britton, Barret and I are the only elders able to be on deck. Under these conditions I assumed temporary presidency and we did the best we could for the comfort of all. On the 22nd religious service was held between decks, and the sacrament was administered.

Arrived in New York on the 29th (of October, 1877). Started west by train at 7 p.m. on the 20th. We reached S. L. City Nov. 7th had some trouble about luggage. . . . [p.72]

BIB: Horne, Joseph Smith, Autobiography, "Utah Pioneer Biographies," vol. 2, p. 72.
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