"'On arriving at the banks of the Missouri, the wagons were drawn up in double lines and in the form of squares. Between the lines, tents were pitched at intervals, space being left between each row for a passage way, which was shaded with awnings or a latticework of branches, and served as a promenade for convalescents and a playground for children.' "But it would be too long a story, to follow the exiles in their vicissitudes through the whole of their weary march across the uninhabited wilderness that lay between them and their future home, in the then wild valleys of the mountains, and to speak of their struggles for existence after they arrived there. They passed through many severe afflictions in building up the country and in settling the territory. The crops were often destroyed by grass-hoppers, crickets, untimely frosts, and drought, but in each difficulty, the Lord overruled circumstances for good and prospered the people, providing the necessaries of life. Settlements were established at various points north and south of Salt Lake City, and the thrift of the people, seasoned with the blessings of God, soon caused cities and villages to spring up in all directions. President Young, himself, often went to seek locations for these sites, and was very frequently present when a city or town was founded." "Truly, a wonderful people with a strange and fascinating history. I am more enthusiastic than ever in my determination to see them and their gathering place," said Mr. Brown. The evening was far spent, and the company prepared to retire, after the usual leave-taking on such occasions. They all wished the missionary and Mr. Brown a pleasant journey. The parting was affecting, for the people had learned to love the Elder, and he, in turn, had a strong and living interest in them. Many missionaries can testify of the binding influence such friends have upon their affections, and people who have learned to love the Elders are frequently as loth to part with them as with members of their own families. This case was no exception. Durant thanked them all for their kindness to him, and blessed them for their hospitality, expressing a desire to see them gathered with the Saints, if God should open their hearts to an adoption of the gospel truths. Early on the following morning, the Elder and Mr. Brown set their faces to the West, and with the present facilities for travel, expected soon to be in the land of the Mormons. As they passed over the vast plains, large rivers, rolling and rugged hills, and pleasant valleys, their conversation was often directed to the great difference between travel as the pioneers endured it, and as it is now enjoyed in the trains of palace coaches.