Thus, in the short space of twenty years, a work has been accomplished without a parallel in the world's history. A work which has been tested on every side; it has been the object of misrepresentation in every part of the world; it has been opposed by the most talented theologians; it has overcome difficulties the most appalling; it has passed through trials the most fiery, and, like gold issuing from the furnace, has shone brighter and brighter; and while it has surmounted every obstacle, it has not only shown that "truth is mighty and will prevail," but has also shown that it has been sustained by One whose arm is omnipotent, and whose word shall be fulfilled and work accomplished though earth and hell oppose. CHAPTER XXIII. Explanatory note.--Lorenzo writes to Elder Hyde.--Brightness of natural scenery.--Spiritual darkness.--A courageous minister.--Inscription attached to his portrait.--Hymn.--Drudgery.--Expression of gratitude.--A dream.--First Native ordained to preach.--Ordains Elders Woodard and Stenhouse to the High Priesthood.--The former to preside in Italy, the latter in Switzerland.--A Magnificent view.--Reflections. It will be understood by the following letter that Brother Lorenzo was on his way to England. He had left Elder Woodard in charge of the mission in Italy. This he was under the necessity of doing, in order to superintend the translation and publication of the Book of Mormon in the Italian language. During the progress of this very important work, whenever opportunities presented in which he could, with propriety, absent himself from the translating room and the press, he traveled among the churches, attending Conferences and visiting the Saints in England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales. This explains the reason why communications were subsequently addressed to him from Italy and Switzerland. Turin, Italy, 25TH January, 1851. _Dear President Hyde_: