The traveler in the desert sometimes finds a green spot which stands in deep contrast to the barrenness of surrounding nature. England appears thus now, as I am about to leave its shores for the lands of darkness. The voice of a thousand friends are dying away in the distance, while before me is a land of strangers, whose tongues will sound in my ears like the jargon of Babel. I have been refreshed with the company of so many kind friends, that I go forth on my mission with renewed energy of body and mind. To-morrow I leave this place for Italy. Farewell, my dear sister, and may Heaven's choicest blessings be your continued portion, is the prayer of Your affectionate brother, Lorenzo Snow. To Miss Eliza R. Snow, Great Salt Lake City, California. "Even the address of this fascinating letter is historically valuable, for it reminds us that Utah was once a part of the province of Upper California; but it is its beautiful enthusiasm--tenderness of the spirit and tone, and the graphic eloquence of the description, which constitutes the charm of this gem of epistolary literature."--_Tullidge's Magazine_. CHAPTER XIX. The Editor's reflections.--The responsibility of Lorenzo's Mission.--His trust in God.--His knowledge that God had called him.--Commendable characteristics.--How they are strengthened.--He writes to F. D. Richards.--Describes Genoa.--Armed men.--Priests.--Meets an acquaintance.--Curious interview.--Reflections.--Sympathy for the people.--Door opening for the Gospel in Piedmont.--Encouraging prospects. A little reflection will impress the readers of the following letter of the peculiarly trying position Lorenzo occupied at the time indicated. Holding the Priesthood of God, and by Him sent forth clothed with authority, with power to impart life unto life, or death unto death--invested with the responsibility of the souls of his fellow men, to the land where the "Mother of harlots" claimed the right "above all that was called God," and ruled with a rod of iron, where, under her scathing hand, not long since, the "bloody inquisition" sent terror into the springs and fountains of life! How formidable the mission! How character-proving the situation!