. . . Last night the wind was very high and a heavy sea on. This morning it was less, we ran out of the harbor in a quarterly direction by the island and while we were yet in full view of Sydney, the wind ceased to blow so we had no control of the vessel, which was thrown before the waves toward the shore, which was a fearful looking sight as the waves were beating against the breakers, flying and foaming high in the air. Every sail was set and every possible means was used to save the vessel from the approaching vessel but to no purpose.

In a short time we discovered a huge rock toward which our vessel was drifting. We saw our fearful danger without any earthly way to prevent it. Every soul on board was waiting to see the vessel dash to pieces. At this critical moment I called some of the elders to come and stand on the side of the vessel nearest the breakers and by the power of the priesthood and mighty faith, we might have power with our Heavenly Father to turn the vessel in another direction, as it did not seem possible we should come to such a fearful death. Yet the vessel continued to drift broadside toward the rock and one more wave passed and the vessel lowered within a short distance from the rock.

Only waiting the next wave to be dashed to pieces, I lifted my eyes to my Father in Heaven for perhaps the last time in this life. I felt the power of God immediately rest upon me and I said, "Oh, God the Eternal Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, Thy Son, I command this vessel to stand still and go no farther towards this rock." The next wave came rolling along and raised the vessel to the full height which soon passed and the vessel lowered in the same place. When I saw this I again lifted my voice to my Father in Heaven and in the name of Jesus Christ commanded the wind to blow and fill the sails which it did instantly and we were soon out of danger. This power had been placed on my head by Joseph Smith, Senior and John Smith, Patriarch who said I should have power over the winds and waves of the sea and they should obey my voice.

Josiah W. Fleming [p.2].

BIB: Fleming, Josiah W., [Letter], IN Australian Mission, Manuscript History, May 28, 1856, p. 2. (CHL)
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