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Show 78 FORTY YEARS AMONG THE INDIANS. " PRESIDENT'S OFFICE, GREAT SALT LAKE CITY, " Dec. 7th, 1856. " Brothers Jones, Alexander and Hampton, in charge at Devil's Gate, and the rest of the brethren at that place: " DEAR BRETHREN : Quite unexpectedly to us we have the opportunity of sending you a few suggestions, as Judge Smith, the post master here, has concluded to for-ward the eastern mail by Brothers Feramorz Little and Ephraim Hanks. " Being somewhat aware of a natural disposition in many to relax their vigilance after a temporary and unac-customed watchfulness, more especially in case no par-ticular cause of alarm is of frequent occurrence, I feel impressed to write a few suggestions and words of coun-sel to you all. You are in an Indian country, few in number, blockaded by the snows, and farfrom assistance at this season of the year. Under such circumstances you can but realize the necessity of all of you being con-stantly on the alert, to be firm, steady, sober- minded and sober- bodied, united, faithful and watchful, living your religion. Do not go from your fort in small parties of one, two or three at a time. But when game is to be sought, wood got up, or any other operation to be performed re-quiring you to travel from under the protection of the fort guns, go in bands of some ten or twelve together, and let them be well armed ; and let those who stay by the stuff be watchful while their comrades are out. And at all times and under all circumstances let every person have his arms and ammunitions ready for active service at a moment's warning, so you cannot be surprised by your foes nor in any way be taken advantage of, whether in or out of the fort. Always have plenty of water about the buildings, and be very careful about fires, and the preservation from damp, fire or other damage of the goods in your care. Unless buffaloes and other game come within a reasonable distance, you had better kill some of the cattle than run much risk in quest of game. . Use all due diligence for the preservation of your stock. |