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Show Nettie, Page 42 outside there was a big, uninhabited area all around them, and unknown adventures ahead. It wasn't long before many of the settlers became discouraged. Work on the canal, to be 30 miles long when completed, was slow. It was evident the canal would take a long time to complete, more than the year everyone had at first supposed. "Alma, where are we going to get the money to continue here?" Mama asked one night. "Margaret, I don't know. I've been hearing others ask the same question. Our money isn't going to hold out much longer." Nettie heard the concern in Papa's voice. "I heard Sis. Lee say yesterday that her husband is considering returning to his home before winter sets in," Mama continued. "I know. I've heard there are several who are worried and speaking along the same lines. It's no wonder when the only payment for our work is in canal stock." Nettie drifted off to sleep. On the Sunday following this conversation a special prayer circle was called. The Peterson family gathered with the other colonists for Sunday services and several elders were called to stand in the circle andoffer up prayers to the Lord toward keeping the settlers going and the canal from being abandoned. Apostle Woodruff spoke to the saints afterwards. "Brethren and sisters, I know there is deep concern in your hearts. There is deep concern in my. heart. There is muchwork ahead of us and not much in the way of cash to finance either the canal or your life's necessi- |
