James Jack, Secretary

Liverpool, Bramley Moore Dock on board the Falcon March 25th 1853. Friday evening ½ past 7 o'clock.

Meeting called to order by President [Cornelius] Bagnall. Hymn sung “Come, Come Ye Saints,” etc.

Prayer by President [Cornelius] Bagnall.

The president then said that the reason this meeting was called was to get their sanction to the appointments that Brother S.[Samuel] W. Richards had made and as they all knew that it was necessary that some should be appointed to take charge of this company he would leave it with this meeting to give their approval or disapproval of Brother Samuel’s appointments.

It was then moved by Elder James McNaughton seconded by William Ross that Elder Cornelius Bagnall should take the presidency of this company to the Great Salt Lake Valley. Carried unanimously.

President Bagnall then moved that Elders James McNaughton and James Caffall should be his counselors, seconded by James Curray, carried unanimously.

President Bagnall then said that it would be necessary that they should have a clerk to take minutes of all their proceedings and he should move that Priest James Jack should be appointed. Seconded by Elder James McNaughton. Carried unanimously. President Bagnall then said, “Brethren and sisters [p.1] I realize the high and important station to which I am called and of myself I am weak yet by the strength of God and of my brethren which have been appointed with me along with you, my brethren and sisters being united together we shall be able to preserve order and harmony all the way and I would just say to the brethren take no undue liberties with the sisters, and you sisters live humble and pure before God and I shall be watching over you all the time and if I should see any indecent conduct in any of you brethren or sisters I care not who they may be I shall reprove it and that perhaps sharper than you would like. I do not wish that any iniquity should be in our midst but that the Spirit of God should be with us all the time and I shall have to make some other appointment but as it is getting late I shall dismiss the meeting at present as we shall have plenty of time afterwards. Hymn was then sung, “Guide us O Thou Great Jehovah” &c.

Prayer by Elder James McNaughton.

Saturday March 26th, 3 o'clock afternoon. The clerk was instructed to get the names of all the priesthood on board with the different offices which they [p.2] held and to call a council meeting at ½ past 4 o'clock. Council met ½ past 4 o'clock when President Bagnall said the reason he had called this meeting was to know what number of his brethren had the priesthood of God upon them and he was pleased to see such a number of his brethren that had been accounted worthy to receive the priesthood of God, that they might counsel together and devise measures for the comfort of all the Saints on board and that his great desire was to take up this people to Zion with the Spirit of God always with them that they might be free from all iniquity and that when we reach the land of Zion we may stand before the heads of the Church blameless.

Elder Curtis E. Bolton came into the meeting at this time and being called upon to speak said that he always rejoiced in meeting with the Saints of God and that we had a first rate company on board and prophesied in the name of Israel's God that if we lived faithful and prayerful before God we should have a very short passage and that the winds should be in our favor all the way.

President Bagnall then said that he wished to establish a time for calling upon the Lord in prayer and for public worship on Sabbath and he wished some of the brethren to state their feelings [p.3] on the subject when several of the brethren spoke. And it was moved by President Bagnall, seconded by Elder James McNaughton that the Saints rise at 6 o'clock and that 7 o'clock he appointed for calling on the Lord in prayer. It was also moved by President Bagnall, seconded by Elder James Caffall that we hold public worship twice on Sabbath and that the hours for the present be from 11 o'clock till 1 o'clock and from 5 o'clock till 7 o'clock when it was carried unanimously. Moved by President Bagnall, seconded by Elder James Caffall that there be no cooking on Sabbath but that the cook supply us twice with boiling water, carried unanimous. Moved by Elder James McNaughton, seconded by President Bagnall that Elder James Caffall and myself go round the berths and appoint some of the young brethren to carry the meat from the passengers to the cook, get it cooked and carry it down to them, again carried.

Saturday evening March 26, 8 o'clock. Meeting called to order for prayer by President Bagnall. Hymn sung, “Come Let Us Sing” and evening hymn, etc. Prayer by President Bagnall. Elder James McNaughton then instructed them about the meetings to be held tomorrow. [p.4] Baptism, Name--Arthur Thornton Parish of Maybole, County of Air Scotland. Born 19th May 1838. Baptized 26 March 1853 by Elder William Aird. Confirmed by Elder Bagnall, McNaughton, & Caffall.

Sabbath morning March 27th, 7 o'clock. Meeting called to order for Prayer by President Bagnall. Hymn sung, “Lord in the Morning Thou Shall Hear” &c. Prayer by Elder James Caffall.

Sabbath forenoon 11 o'clock. Meeting called to order by Elder James McNaughton. Hymn sung, “Glorious Things of Thee Are Spoken.” Prayer by Elder James McNaughton. Hymn sung, “Come All Ye Sons of God Who Have Received the Priesthood.” President Bagnall then said, brethren & sisters we have met this morning under circumstances that I never met under before and I am happy to see the spirit that prevails amongst you. We are the children of God and we have to work out our own salvation with fear and trembling. When we read the Old Testament and see what the children of Israel in days of old had to go through before they could obtain salvation, how they were called to leave the land of Egypt and travel through the wilderness to the Land of Promise and when we see them [p.5] at the Red Sea encompassed by the Egyptians on the one hand and the sea on the other how they were delivered by the power of God and they were bound to acknowledge that salvation was from the Lord, yet when we find them traveling through the wilderness when their food was getting done how they murmured and repined against the Lord, and how they would have slain their leader had not the Spirit of God been round about him, how that the Lord sent then manna from heaven and that they ate even angel’s food and they were again led to acknowledge that salvation was from the Lord yet, after all his manifestations to them, how they murmured and complained against him, but brethren & sisters we are not to be like the Israelites of old. We are called to leave the land of our nativity and go to a land that God has set apart for the gathering of his people, that they may escape his judgment which he is to pour out upon the wicked and those who will not obey the gospel and if we get trials to endure, let us not murmur but let us hear them like Saints of the most high God. We have obeyed the principles of life and salvation, so far and it is only through [p.6] suffering that we can be made perfect, but let us, brethren & sisters, have faith in God and he will bless us. If you see a child that has faith in his father and does all things that he is told and looks unto him and has his affections and confidence concentrated in him will not that father bless his child? Yes, verily, brethren & sisters he will. How much more so then will our Heavenly Father bless us if we have confidence in him and live humble before him and keep his commandments. Do not look at our trials brethren & sisters as a great mountain that we cannot get over but just look at them as we used to do when we went a-courting. It did not matter whether it rained or snowed or anything else we were prepared to go through every trial for the joy that was before us enabled us to surmount all difficulties. So brethren & sisters, let the joy and happiness which we expect to find when we reach the land of Zion bring us up above all thing that we may have to pass through and the power and Spirit of God shall be with us all the time, and my prayer is brethren and sisters that the Spirit of God may be continually in our midst and that love and harmony may be with us all the time even so amen. [p.7] Elder Richard Atwood being then called upon to speak said that he had listened with great pleasure to the words that had flowed from the lips of his brother, their president and he had faith and confidence in him and exhorted the Saints to listen to his instructions and counsel at all times and he would lead us in the way of life and truth, and brethren & sisters we are entering as it were into a new existence, and if we have trials let me say in the words of Elder Taylor, God sends us a double portion of them that we may be purified and made fit to inherit Celestial Glory. We are standing on the vessel that is to convey us from the shores of Babylon to the happy land of Zion and may we be enabled to endure all trials and sufferings that we have to pass through is my prayer in the name of Jesus Christ Amen.

Hymn Sung “Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow.” Prayer by Elder James Caffall. Sabbath evening 5 o'clock. Meeting called to order by President Bagnall. Hymn sung, “Oh Happy Home, Oh Best Abode.” Prayer by Elder Joseph Addage. Hymn again sung, “Earth is the Place Where God Shall Reign.” [p.8]

Elder James McNaughton being called upon to speak said, brethren and sisters, as I am called upon to address you I desire that the Spirit of God may be with me and that you may extend your faith and prayers in my behalf that I may be led to speak upon things which may be appropriate on the present occasion. I was much pleased with the remarks of our president in the forenoon and thank and praise God that we have such a man to preside over us, and brethren & sisters let us uphold him not only in our faith and prayers but also by our works. Let us one and all cooperate with him and give heed unto his counsels and instructions and we shall reach our desired haven in peace. And brethren and sisters in order that no disease may get amongst us we will require strictly to observe the principle of cleanliness and we trust that this principle will be strictly observed by you all, for you are all aware that the Spirit of God will not dwell in unclean tabernacles and we wish to retain that spirit with us all the time, and as we have established a time for calling upon the Lord in prayer we wish all to attend to that. The sisters in some cases are to be excused where they have a number of children to attend to, but if the brethren and husbands have the Spirit of God they can infuse that [p.9] spirit into their wives and children so that all may go on in peace and harmony together and my sincere prayer is that you may abound in all good things in the name of Jesus, amen.

Elder James Caffall being called upon rose and said brethren & sisters being called upon by our president I arise to address you but if I had my own way of it and according to my own feelings I would rather have sat and heard some of the rest of the brethren address you. Yet I have learned to be obedient to those that are over me, and not my will but theirs be done. And brethren and sisters, it is only through this great principle that ever we can be exalted in the Kingdom of God. I have been 8 years in this church 4 ½ years of which I have traveled and proclaimed this gospel and exhorted the Saints by precept to gather up to Zion. And all the time I have prayed that I might be enabled to show them by example and the time has come. Thanks and praise unto God when I can show them example as well as precept, and brethren and sisters, if we want a quick passage we must observe cleanliness and good order in order that the Lord may bless us and when we get to Zion and there receive some of our [p.10] privileges we will be amply repaid for all the trials and sufferings that we may have to wade through and if we are determined to be happy and go through everything that may come in our way why, we will just have power to do it. We have men here who hold the oracles of God and in a measure the keys of heaven and if we live humble they will just have power to open the heavens and shower down blessings upon us. And I want that when we read the Star [MEANING THE MILLENNIAL STAR] in years to come that we can read that this company went up to Zion first rate, and exhorted the Saints not to murmur but to keep their spirits in subjection to them and that the husbands should look after their children and not let them in the way of the Sailors but that all might be peace and harmony on board. And my prayer is that you may be blessed and that the winds may be in our favor to waft us to the happy shores of Zion in the name of Jesus Christ Amen.

Hymn. “Be It My Only Wisdom Here,” etc. Prayer by Elder James McNaughton.

Monday morning March 28th, 7 o'clock. Meeting called to order by President Bagnall. Hymn sung, “The Morning Breaks the Shadows Flee.” Prayer by President Bagnall. [p.11] Monday 1/4 past 10 o'clock we left the Bramley Moore Dock. The Saints singing “The Shepherds Have Raised Their Sweet Warning Voice” &c. “Guide Us Oh Thou Great Jehovah” &c “Come, Come Ye Saints no toil nor labor fear” &c. “Behold the Mountain of the Lord” &c. At 2 o'clock we got out to sea when all the names of the passengers on board were called over, and then was one of the name of Edward Gardner who was amissing. He has got 2 boxes on board the Falcon.

Monday Evening 1/4 to 8 o'clock. Meeting called to order for prayer by President Bagnall. Hymn sung, “Glory to the My God This Night.” Prayer by Elder James Caffall. Monday evening 1/4 past 8 o'clock married on board by Elder James McNaughton: William Lloyd, born Karmarthen, Wales, August 9th 1823 to Ann Thomas, Monmouth shire, Wales, born 24 May 1831.

Tuesday morning March 29, 1853, 7 o'clock meeting called to order for prayer by Elder James McNaughton. Hymn sung, “Wak'd From My Bed of Slumber Sweet.” Prayer by Elder James McNaughton.

Tuesday forenoon 11 o'clock married on board the Falcon by Elder James McNaughton: William Burton, born Staffordshire, England, 30 May 1832 to Elisabeth Peat, born Worster, England, 16th August 1832. [p.12] At the same time by Elder James McNaughton: George Summers [Somers] born Herefordshire, England, 24 May 1831 to Mary Ann Gittins, born Herefordshire England 15 August 1833. Hymn sang, “O Lord Do Thou in Heaven Seal” &c.

Tuesday 2 o'clock. The passengers got provisions sent out to them of tea, sugar, & pork.

Tuesday evening ½ past 7 o'clock meeting called to order for prayer by President Bagnall. Hymn sung, “Redeemer of Israel our only delight.” Prayer by Elder William Ross.

President Bagnall then exhorted the Saints not to on deck to make a noise after 8 o'clock as the sailors went to bed at that time. But that the captain was favorable and would allow them the privilege of the deck to hold their meetings on Sabbath and that he would do himself the pleasure to come and hear them. He had also been speaking to him about the provisions as some of the Saints had come to him with complaints that they had not got the quantity allowed them, and the captain said that he thought it wisdom not to give them over flush at the beginning as they might make a long voyage of it for anything that he knew, and in that case they [p.13] might come off short in the end, but that it did not matter a fig to him as he held in his possession an order from S.W. Richards to deliver up all the provisions that was over when they arrived at New Orleans to the passengers. President Bagnall also said that he wished 2 elders to take turns of watching below all night, as they would have lamps burning all the time and that he wished them to see that the Saints kept their beds and that decency and decorum was observed amongst them. Elders James McNaughton and James Caffall then went round the ship and appointed stewards for a certain number of berths to see that the passengers got their meat cooked regularly.

Wednesday morning Mar. 30th 1853. Water served out to the passengers at 7 o'clock. Nothing particular occurred today, prayers at ½ past 7 o'clock evening.

Thursday morning Mar. 31st 1853. Water served out to the passengers at 6 o'clock. At 7 o'clock meeting called to order for prayer by Elder James McNaughton. Hymn sung, “The Morning Breaks the Shadows Flee.” Prayer by President Bagnall. [p.14]

At 1/4 to 6 o'clock morning the child of William and Sarah Steward died aged 14 months old, parents: Kendal Branch of the Preston Conference. The child’s name is Isabella. She was put overboard near the mouth of the Irish Channel at 20 minutes to 12 o'clock same day.

Thursday evening ½ past 7 o'clock meeting called to order for prayer by Elder James McNaughton. Hymn sung, “Guide Us Oh Thou Great Jehovah.” Prayer by Elder James McNaughton. About 8 o'clock a man of the name of Richard Meredeth [Meredith] from the Herefordshire Conference fell down the hatchway of the ship and got his head severely cut and otherwise bruised. The sea has been very rough today and the wind is against us. Mostly all of the passengers sick.

Friday morning April 1st 1853. Meeting called to order for prayer at 7 o'clock by President Bagnall. Hymn sung, “Awake My Soul and With the Sun.” Prayer by President Bagnall. Afternoon the passengers were served with oat and flour meal, rice and biscuit.

Evening meeting called to order for prayer by President Bagnall. Hymn sung, “Praise God From Whom All Blessings Flow.” Prayer by Elder Rich Atwood. [POSSIBLY, Ro. Harrison Atwood] [p.15]

Saturday morning April 2nd, 1853. Meeting called to order for prayer by President Bagnall. Hymn sung, “Glorious Things Are Sung of Zion.” Prayer by President Bagnall.

Afternoon passengers were served with (each) 1 ½ pounds butter, 1 pound cheese, ½ pint of vinegar being part of the provisions provided by S.W. Richards over and above the ship's allowance.

Evening meeting called for prayer by President Bagnall. Hymn sung, “Let Us Pray Gladly Pray” &c. Prayer by Elder William Stewart. The sea still very rough winds always against us.

Sabbath Morning April 3rd, 1853. Water served out to the passengers at 7 o'clock. At 11 o'clock forenoon council meeting called by President Bagnall.

Counsel met when President Bagnall said that he wished to make more proper arrangements about cooking the provisions and in preserving cleanliness as a feeling of disaffection prevailed amongst some of the brethren and that several complaints had been made to him about partiality being shown to the Scotch Brethren and he wished to get the wisdom of his brethren upon the subject [p.16] that they might devise the best measures for giving satisfaction to all. Some of the brethren then made complaints about not getting things cooked for their dinner in time and so forth. When Elder James McNaughton said that he was a Scotchman but that he would feel ashamed of murmuring about such trifles and of giving a description about how his family had been used, and that they did not come here to speak about the past but to make the best arrangements for the present and future and exhorted them to cultivate the Spirit of God so that love and unity might be in our midst and that if ever a feeling of disaffection came into their bosoms to quash it at once and give it no room there, that we might have power with God and that he might hear and answer our prayers that the winds and waves might be in our favor.

After hearing the brethren’ minds upon the subject it was moved by President Bagnall, seconded by Elder James Caffall, that the ship be divided into 6 wards, 3 on the one side of the vessel and 3 on the other, carried. Moved by President Bagnall seconded by Elder James McNaughton, that one elder be appointed for each ward and that he may have power to call as many more as he may think [p.17] necessary to assist him. Moved by President Bagnall that Elders William Walker, William Davis [Davies], and Richard Atwood be appointed presidents of the first, second and third wards and that Elders John Vest, James Muir and Hugh Priestly [Prestley] be appointed presidents of the fourth, fifth and sixth wards, seconded by Elder James McNaughton carried. Moved by President Bagnall, seconded by William Stewart that the provisions be all cooked together as much as possible that all the Saints be served with their meals about the same time, carried. President Bagnall then said that he would leave it with those who had been appointed over the different wards to arrange amongst themselves what they thought best should be cooked on the different days and exhorted them to instill into the hearts of the Saints the Spirit of God so that they might live in peace and unity one with the other.

Elder William Davis [Davies] then moved that President Bagnall with his two counselors be exempt from all other duties but counseling together for the comfort of the Saints and that the other appointed see that all their instructions are carried into effect. Seconded by Elder William Walker, carried. [p.18]

The meeting was then dismissed by prayer by Elder James Caffall. The presidents of the different wards then counseled together and it was agreed by them that hot water should be served out in the morning at 8 o'clock to all who wanted it every day and also in the evening and that those who wanted oatmeal cooked should get it done immediately after, and that on Monday a general dinner of rice should be cooked together, and that on Tuesday oatmeal should be cooked for dinner, and on Wednesday pork and potatoes, and on Thursday rice again and on Friday oatmeal and again on Saturday pork and potatoes and that the same order should be observed on Sabbath. As before nothing but warm water twice a day.

It was also agreed by them that all should have an equal privilege that they should begin with No. 1 ward on Monday and No. 2 ward on Tuesday and so on all the week with all the cooking that should be done besides the arrangement made for dinner. It was also thought wisdom by them that all the baking that had to be fired in the ovens should be done for the one side of the vessel the one day and that the other side should get the privilege the next, that there might be general [p.19] satisfaction in all the ship.

Sabbath evening 6 o'clock. Meeting called to order by Richard Atwood. Hymn sung, “Be it My Only Wisdom Here” & c. Prayer by Elder Richard Atwood.

President Bagnall then said, “Brethren and sisters, I do not intend to preach to you tonight as we have no convenience and can scarcely stand with the heaving of the vessel but only he wished to let them know some of the arrangement they had made this forenoon for their comfort. He then instructed them in regard to the appointments that had been made and exhorted them to give heed unto the instructions of those that had been placed over them that peace and comfort might be in their midst and that the blessings of God might rest amongst them. As yet the winds have been against us but are we in a state to receive blessings. Jesus Christ says, “if ye are not one ye are not mine.” Well, we have not been one but a feeling of dissatisfaction has prevailed amongst us but brethren and sisters, let us be determined from this time henceforth to be united that the winds may be changed in our favor and that we may be speedily wafted to our [p.20] desired haven which is my sincere prayer in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. Prayer by Elder James McNaughton. Sabbath evening ½ past 7 o'clock.

Meeting called for prayer in three different parts of the vessel, 2 wards joining together.

Monday morning April 4th 1853. Meetings called to order for prayer at 7 o'clock by the different presidents of the wards. In the forenoon the clerk was called upon to make a minute in regard to James McGregor who had refused to obey counsel inasmuch as he was desired by Elder Hugh Priestly [Prestley], president of the 6th Ward of the vessel to assist in carrying out the resolutions adopted by the council of the 3rd instant. And inasmuch as James McGregor from the Glasgow Conference was appointed by the president of his ward to assist in carrying provisions to and from the cook to the passengers and in emptying the slop pails, refused to do it, he was asked his reason, and the one he gave was that it was too mean and degrading for any man to do such things. His president exhorted him if he wished to be exalted in the Kingdom of God he had got to be humble, but he [p.21.] [WRITTEN IN LARGE WORDS ACROSS THE PAGE, James McGregor has since repented and acted in his office] said he would not do it but that he would act upon his own agency and responsibility. Evening prayers in the different wards as usual. The sea is still very rough, winds contrary to us, but the Saints in general are better of seasickness.

Tuesday, April 5, 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening in the different wards as usual. Nothing particular occurred today but a general feeling of harmony prevailed, there are more order on board and a feeling of unity is more manifested amongst the Saints.

Wednesday April 6th 1853. Meetings for prayer as usual morning and evening. The winds are more favorable today and the sea much calmer.

Thursday April 7th, 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening.

Remarks, At 9 o'clock all the passengers were called to come on deck by the captain of the ship. Orders that they might secure the hatchways of the vessel properly so that no smell might come from the hold. Afterwards all the boxes were lifted by the different stewards and the [p.22] place below all properly cleaned and washed out. In the evening Richard Meredith who got his head cut was quite insensible and had to be tied to keep him in his bed. He has been very badly attended to. The conduct of his wife and son towards him has been quite disgraceful.

Friday April 8th, 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening as usual.

Remarks. The winds are still favorable to us. Provisions were served out to the passengers of oat and flour meal, rice, biscuit, pork, sugar, tea and salt.

Saturday April 9th, 1853. Meeting for prayer morning and evening. Remarks. Died at 20 minutes past 5 o'clock morning the child of Hendry [Henry] and Emma Elisabeth Kendal, [Kendall] from the Newburgh Branch of the Reading Conference. The child was born in May 1850, and his name was Richard Fredrick Kendal [Kendall]. Put overboard at 30 minutes past 7 o'clock same morning. Prayer at the time by Elder James McNaughton, ship in latitude 45.4 longitude 15. - Forenoon the clerk was instructed by President to call a council meeting of all the priesthood on board at 4 o'clock. [p.23] Council met at 4 o'clock when the meeting was opened by singing the hymn, “Come All Ye Sons of God” &c. Prayer by Elder James Caffall.

President Bagnall then said, brethren, I am happy in being again privileged to meet you in council and I can say that we are better than we were last meeting but still there is room for improvement. There is some little things amongst us that ought not to exist. I have heard certain complaints about things being amissing. I will will [SIC] not take upon me to say that there are any dishonesty amongst us but this I will say that they are either lost, strayed or stolen. But as we are so confined for room they may have been mislaid or knocked about and probably will cast up some day or other yet. But Brethren I wish to lay before you some things that are on my mind. I thought of organizing a school for the children and as we have got the cloth for the tents on board which I would like to see commenced too as soon as possible, I thought that if the school did no more good than keeping the children out of the way for 3 or 4 hours every day it would always be so much gained. Several of the brethren spoke their feelings on the subject when it was moved by Elder William Davis, seconded, Elder James McNaughton that a school [p.24] be organized and that the hours be from 10 till 12 forenoon and from 2 till 4 afternoon. Elder William Aird was then appointed to take charge of the school and Elder Hendry [Henry] John and Teacher John Bagnall to assist him and that they commence their labors on Monday first.

President Bagnall said that he would like to see the tents commenced too on Monday likewise and that Elder William Ross would take the charge of them as he had received some instructions concerning them as well as he himself and that he would keep a book and enter down the names of all who wished to help in making them and what they had done. Some of the brethren then made remarks about one or two of the sisters that had been seen on deck communicating with the sailors after they should have been in beds. When President Bagnall said that if the like should occur again let the parties be noted and brought to books and let all the Saints be told that there is no allowance for anyone to be on deck after 9 o'clock.

Elder James Caffall said that he would like to see a testimony meeting through the week as he thought it would do good and assist the Saints to keep the Spirit of God more amongst them.

President Bagnall said that he would leave that to the 6 elders that had been appointed over the [p.25] different wards and also the meetings on Sabbath, that they might counsel together and arrange amongst themselves what they thought would be best for the comfort and edification of the Saints. The sacrament of the Lord's supper was then spoke about and if it was possible to get it dispensed on Sabbath first. The meeting was then dismissed by President Bagnall. It was then agreed amongst the different presidents of the wards that there should be meetings on Sabbath at each end of the vessel that No. 1, 5, 6, wards meet at one end with Elder William Walker as their president and that No. 2, 3, 4, wards meet at the other, with Elder Richard Atwood as their president.

Sabbath April 10th 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening as usual. At 11 o'clock forenoon meeting was called to order by Elder William Walker. Hymn sung, “Twas On That Dark and Solemn Night.” Prayer by W. Walker. The sacrament was then administered by Elder James McNaughton and James Muir when Elder Walker said brethren & sisters you have again made a covenant to serve God and to love one another, and exhorted the Saints to obedience in all things as that was one great principle whereby we should be exalted in the Kingdom of God. That wives should be obedient to their husbands [p.26] and that children should be obedient to their parents and let us all be obedient to those that are placed over us that peace and harmony should be in our midst and that the blessing of God may be with us.

President Bagnall was then called upon to speak when he said, brethren and sisters I have rejoiced much in your midst this forenoon and in the remarks that have fallen from the lips of my brother, we often pray that the Kingdom of God may come & that his will may be done on earth as it is in heaven. My brother has been teaching you some of the principles that if you put them in practice will bring about this great and happy result. As you honor God and his servants so God will honor you for the blessings of God comes through his priesthood which he has upon the earth and brethren and sisters, let us cultivate a spirit of order for this is the hinge that heaven turns upon and without order no Kingdom of God can ever exist worlds without end and my prayer is that the blessing of God may rest richly upon you that you may be preserved in health and strength and that the destroyer may have no power over you. I crave this for you in connection with myself in the name of Jesus Christ, amen. Hymn sung, “Come All Ye Sons of God” &c. Prayer by Elder James Muir.

Sabbath 4 o'clock meeting was called to order by [p.27] Elder William Walker. Hymn sung “The Morning Breaks the Shadows Flee.” &c. Prayer by Elder James Muir. The meeting was then addressed by Elders William Walker and James McNaughton upon their duties to their God and to one another and the Spirit of God prevailed much in our midst. The first mate of the vessel was in the meeting most of the time. Hymn sung at the close of the meeting, “How Are Thy Servant Blest.” Prayer by Elder W. Walker.

Monday April 11th 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening. Remarks. Nothing particular occurred today. The winds are still in our favor and a general feeling of satisfaction prevailed on board.

Tuesday, April 12th 1853. Meetings for prayer. Morning and evening. Died at 15 minutes to 10 o'clock forenoon the child of Hendry [Henry] and Emma Elisabeth Kendal [Kendall] from the Newburgh Branch of the Reading Conference, born May 1852. Put overboard at 20 minutes past 11 o'clock same day. The child name was Lorenzo Hendry Kendal [Henry Kendall]. Prayer at the time by Elder James Caffall. Ship at the time Latitude 45. - Longitude 25. -

Wednesday April 13th 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening. Remarks. The Saints are very busy today [p.28] making the tents and covers for the wagons.

Thursday, April 14th 1853. Meetings for prayers morning and evening. Remarks. All the passengers were called to be on deck at 9 o'clock that the place below might be all properly cleaned and washed out which was done by the different stewards.

At the meeting for prayer in the morning it was intimated that a testimony meeting would be held at each end of the vessel. The Saints to meet the same as on Sabbath, the Spirit of God prevailed much in our midst and many testimonies were to the work of God which was truly soul cheering.

Friday April 15th 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening. Remarks. The passengers were all served with provisions of oat and flour meal, rice, pork, sugar, tea, biscuit and salt. They also got 2 ½ pounds of sugar which was allowed extra by S.W. Richards over and above the ship's allowance.

Saturday April 16th 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening. Hours altered from 7 o'clock morning and evening to 8 o'clock morning and evening. At 4 o'clock a council meeting of all the priesthood on board was called by President Bagnall.[p.29] Council meeting was called to order by President Bagnall, hymn sung, “The Morning Breaks the Shadows Flee.” Prayer by Elder James Caffall.

President Bagnall then said brethren our assembling together is to know what things are transpiring amongst us. One thing I have to speak about is the Saints being off the deck at nine o'clock. I have seen the captain this afternoon and it is his wish that all the children be off the deck at 8 o'clock and that all the rest be off the deck at 9 o'clock for the present and let the Saints be instructed in this thing by the different presidents of the wards as early as possible and I would move that Elder James Caffall and Richard Atwood be appointed to go round the deck at 9 o'clock and see that no person be loitering about after that hour. Seconded by Elder W. Walker. Carried.

And if there be any who refuse to come down at that hour let their names be taken and if we have not power over them, we have only to give them into the hands of the captain.

Moved by James Ristie [Ririe,] Seconded by William Davis [Davies] that we have the residue of the provisions provided by S.W. Richards over and above the ship’s [p.30] allowance served out to us on Monday first, carried. A meeting to be held on deck was then spoke about and it was moved by Elder W. Walker, seconded by Elder J. [James] McNaughton that President Bagnall ask the captain if we can hold a meeting on deck tomorrow, carried. The meeting was then dismissed by prayer from James McNaughton.

Sabbath April 17th, 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening.

At 11 o'clock the meeting was called to order for public worship by Elder W. Walker. Hymn sung, “Arise my Soul Arise.” Prayer by Elder Robert Logan.

President Bagnall being called upon to speak rose and said brethren and sisters I rise to say a few words to you as I may be led by the influence of the Spirit of God. I feel this morning to praise the Lord with all my heart that we are just in the position we are in this morning and when I look around upon your faces I just wish I may behold you all in Zion. And I exhort you all to let your light shine before all men and let the Spirit of God influence all your actions and live humble and faithful before God, and those that are placed over you, and if there is a spirit in this ship who will not do that they will soon find that [p.31] they have got into hell instead of heaven and will find their way out amongst us the first opportunity but brethren and sisters I have your welfare at my heart and I pray that the blessing of God may be with us all in the name of Jesus Christ, amen.

The ordinance of bread and wine was then administered by Elders Bishop and Aird.

Elder W. Walker then bore his testimony and left the meeting in the hands of the Saints. When a number of the brethren and sisters bore their testimony to the work they were engaged in and a spirit of love and unity prevailed in our midst and the spirit and power of God was much amongst us. Hymn sung at the close of the meeting “O Zion When I Think on Thee.” Prayer by Elder James Muir.

At 4 o'clock a meeting was held on deck when the Saints were addressed by Elders James McNaughton. James Caffall and President Bagnall upon the great advantages and blessings that were to be gained by gathering to the land of Zion. The captain of the vessel, the officers and part of the crew listened very attentively all the time. [p.32]

Monday April 18th 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening. Remarks. The butter, cheese and vinegar provided by S.W. Richards was served out to the passengers. The weather has been very warm today.

Tuesday April 19th 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening. A council meetings of the 6 elders of the different wards was called when it was moved by Richard Atwood, seconded by William Davis [Davies] that William Walker preside over this meeting, carried. Moved by Richard Atwood, seconded by W. Davis [William Davies] that Hendry Welsh [Henry Walsh] be appointed to see that all get their water in turn and that there be no confusion.

Wednesday April 20th 1853. Meeting for prayer morning and evening. Died of the croup. The son of John and Emma Mason from the Burslen Branch of the Staffordshire Conferences. The child's name was John Mason. Born on the 28th December 1848. Died at 5 minutes to 6 o'clock evening put overboard at 25 minutes to 7 o'clock same evening. Ship in latitude 38 - Longitude 46 as given by the first mate. Vessel past us at the time Latitude shown by them 50 - Longitude 20. - [p.33]

Thursday April 21st 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening. Remarks. All the passengers were called on deck at 9 o'clock and the place below all properly cleaned and washed out by the different stewards. At 4 o'clock the prayer meeting was called to order by Elder James McNaughton. Hymn sung, “How Are Thy Servants Blest O Lord.” Prayer by President Bagnall. Elder W. Walker then said that they had met this evening to bear testimony to the work of God, to pray on sing of the songs of Zion as they might feel led by the good spirit and exhorted the Saints to live humble and obedient before God that he might continue his blessings towards us. He then left the meeting in the hands of the Saints when a number of the brethren and sisters bore their testimony to the work they were engaged in and a spirit of obedience and unity prevailed in our midst.

Friday April 22nd, 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening. Remarks. The passengers received their allowance of oat and flour meal, rice, pork, biscuit, sugar, tea and salt. Priest William Rockall [Rockell] showed symptoms of Insanity. He has struck and kicked some of the brethren had the ordinance administered to him this evening. And was handcuffed by the second mate. [p.34]

Saturday April 23, 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening. Priest William Rockall [Rockwell] was again administered to this morning and had to be removed to the hospital to keep him from injuring the brethren and sisters. In the evening he is still very bad.

Sabbath April 24th 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening as usual. At 11 o'clock meeting called to order for public worship by Elder Walker. Hymn sung, “The Morning Breaks the Shadows Flee.” Prayer by Elder James Muir.

The sacrament was then administered by Elders Bishop and Aird. When a number of the brethren and sisters bore their testimony and the Spirit of God was much amongst us and was manifested by speaking in tongues of which the interpretation was given by President Bagnall which was in regard to William Rockall [Rockell] and he felt like fasting for him and wished all the priesthood to do the same. Another Brother again spoke in tongues and was interpreted by President Bagnall, that the Lord would accept of our fasting and restore our brother to his right mind and health and strength, and it was his mind that they should fast till 9 o'clock and then administer to him. The meeting was dismissed by prayer from Elder James McNaughton. [p.35] At 4 o'clock a meeting was held on deck when the Saints were addressed by Elders Cowdey [Cowdy] and Mason & Logan. After the prayer meeting at 8 o'clock a council meeting of all the elders who had been fasting was called by President Bagnall. . . They then prayed together and afterwards went and administered the ordinance to him and rebuked the disease in the name of the Lord.

Monday April 25th 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening. Remarks. William Rockall [Rockell] has been much better today and has been able to be on deck most part of the day.

Tuesday April 26th 1853. Meetings for prayers, morning and evening. [p.36]

Wednesday April 27 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening. Remarks William Rockall [Rockell] is still keeping better.

Thursday April 28th 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening. At 4 o'clock the prayer meeting was called to order by Elder Walker. Hymn sung “O Zion When I Think On Thee.” Prayer by Elder James McNaughton. Elder Walker then said that he still rejoiced in this work and exhorted the Saints to bear their testimony to the knowledge that they had received, when the time was occupied by the Saints in singing and bearing testimony.

Friday April 29th 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening. Remarks. A supply of weeks provisions of oat and flour meal, rice, pork, biscuit, sugar, tea, and salt was served out to the passengers.

Saturday April 30th 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening. Remarks. All the passengers were called on deck at 9 o'clock and the place below was smoked by the sailors and afterwards washed out by the different stewards. At 10 o'clock a council meeting was called of the 6 presidents over the different wards. [p.37] Council met when it was moved by Elder Attwood [Ro. Harrison Atwood]. Seconded by Brother Millineus [Molyneaux] that Elder Walker preside over this meeting. The meeting was then opened by prayer from Elder James Caffall.

. . .

Elder Walker then exhorted them to be obedient to the priesthood as it was by obedience that they would be exalted in the Kingdom of God. . . .

Council meeting of all the priesthood on board called by President Bagnall at 4 o'clock. Opened by prayer from Elder James McNaughton.

President Bagnall then said that he had nothing new to bring before this meeting but that he would sit down and give place to any of the brethren who might have any observations to make praying that the blessing of the Lord may be with you all in the name of Jesus, amen. [p.39] Elder Caffall said that he had one thing to lay before this council and that was about the extension of time in the evening as it appeared to be the general desire of the Saints. The rest of the brethren were quite agreeable inasmuch as the captain would allow us.

When it was moved by Elder Caffall, seconded by Elder McNaughton that President Bagnall ask the captain for the extension of an hour in the evening, carried. President Bagnall said that he had seen the captain yesterday and having a favorable opportunity asked him about this matter and his answer was that he would be quite agreeable to let us stop till 10 o'clock inasmuch as we did not sing after 8 o'clock and be as quiet as possible after 9 o'clock so that the sailors might have no reason to complain to him about being disturbed while they were in bed.

Elder McNaughton then brought before the meeting about giving the captain a note of commendation from us as being a good and humane man and as favoring us as a company of emigrants to the Great Salt Lake Valley. President Bagnall said he was happy that Elder McNaughton had brought this before the meeting. When he was talking to the captain yesterday he had spoke to him about this and asked him if it would be of any use to him. [p.40] He seemed quite pleased and said he would think himself highly honored by the same. He had also spoke to him about the 2 boxes of Gardner that we had on board and had not the owner of them. The captain said the best way would be to open them and see that nothing in them were spoiling as the excise officers would open them when we got to New Orleans. Moved by Elder Walker, seconded by Elder Davis [William Davies] that President Bagnall in connection with his counselors be appointed to open them and take the charge of them. Moved by Elder McNaughton, seconded by Elder Attwood [Atwood] that the captain be presented with an memorial from us for his kindness in attending the sick and other privileges, carried.

Moved by President Bagnall, seconded by Elder Walker that the first and second mates be presented with a memorial in connection with the captain, carried. The following were named to form a committee for drawing up the memorial.

President Bagnall, Elders McNaughton, Caffall, Walker, Ross, Attwood [Atwood], Davis [Davies] , Aird and Mason moved by President Bagnall, seconded by Brother Millinews [Molyneaux] that these be appointed as a committee and that the clerks be appointed to draw it out. [p.41] Elder Walker spoke about a concert being got up some five day before we got to New Orleans, but the sailors coming in at this time interrupted us and the meeting was dismissed in the name of the Lord by President Bagnall. At at [SIC] meeting of the presidents of wards it was moved by Elder McNaughton, seconded by Elder Davis [Davies] that President Bagnall be presented with a memorial on the same day as the captain. Carried unanimously.

Sabbath May 1st 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening.

At 11 o'clock meeting called to order for public worship by Elder Walker. Hymn sung, “Behold the Mountain of the Lord.” Prayer by Elder Caffall.

The sacrament was then administered by Elders Bishop and Aird and the meeting left in the hands of the Saints when the time was occupied by their bearing testimony and singing of the songs of Zion and a spirit of love and obedience prevailed much in our midst. Meeting dismissed by prayer from Elder Walker.

At 4 o'clock a meeting was held on deck when the Saints were addressed by Elder Attwood [Atwood] on the priesthood of God also by Elder Walker. [p.42] And President Bagnall on the duty of wives to their husbands and how they should honor them and be obedient to them in all things. Meeting dismissed by Prayer from Elder McNaughton.

Monday May 2, 1853. Prayers morning and evening as usual. Nothing particular occurred today. The weather is fine and the wind very favorable.

Tuesday May 3rd 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening.

Wednesday, May 4th 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening. Nothing particular occurred but a general feeling of satisfaction prevailed amongst the Saints.

Thursday May 5th 1853 Meetings for prayer morning and evening. The passengers were all called on deck at 10 o'clock and the place below smoked by the sailors afterwards cleaned and washed out by the different stewards.

Friday May 6th 1853 Meetings for prayer morning and evening. In the forenoon the passengers were all served with a week’s allowance of oat and flour meal, rice, biscuit, pork, tea, sugar, and salt. [p.43]

Saturday May 7th 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening. At 4 o'clock the committee which was appointed on the 30th of April met when the clerk was called upon to read the memorials he had drawn up for the captain and mates. It was moved by President Bagnall, seconded by Elder Walker that the captain’s and second mate he accepted, and that the first mate receive an acknowledgment of our good feelings towards him for all his kindness to us, verbally carried. Moved by Elder Attwood [Atwood], seconded by Elder Davis [Davies] that President Bagnall in connection with his counselors be appointed to present them on Tuesday first, carried. The meeting then separated.

Sabbath May 8th 1853. Meetings for prayers morning and evening. At 11 o'clock meeting was called to order for public worship by Elder Walker. Hymn sung, “This Earth Was Once a Blessed Place.” Prayer by President Bagnall. The sacrament was then administered by Elders Bishop and Aird. The meeting was then left in the hands of the Saints when they bore testimony to the work of God and we had a time of rejoicing one with the other. Meeting dismissed by prayer from Elder Walker.

Meeting was held on deck at 4 o'clock when the Saints were addressed by President Bagnall. [p.44] At the close of the meeting a vote of thanks to the captain was moved by Elder McNaughton, for his gentlemanly conduct towards us during the voyage. Second by Elder Caffall and was heartily responded to by the Saints.

Monday May 9th 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening. Meeting of the committee together with the presidents of the different wards was again called when the motions of Elder McNaughton of the 30 April was again brought before the meeting in regard to President Bagnall’s memorial. Moved by Elder Attwood [Atwood] seconded by Aird that Elder Walker be appointed to draw it up, carried.

Moved by Elder Walker, seconded by Attwood [Atwood] that Elders McNaughton and Caffall receive one likewise separate and apart from President Bagnall, carried.

Moved by Walker seconded by Elder Vest that Attwood [Atwood] and Ross be appointed to draw them up, carried. Moved by Elder Davis [Davies], seconded by Elder Muir that a meeting of all the Saints be called tomorrow at 4 o'clock to get their sanction. The meeting then separated.

Tuesday May 10th 1853. Meetings for prayers morning and evening. The captain and mate were presented with their memorials this morning according to appointment. Of which the [p.45] following are copies.
To All Whom This May Concern.

This is to certify that having decided in our council that a memorial should be presented to you for your gentlemanly and praiseworthy conduct to us as a company of Latter-day Saints sailing from Liverpool to New Orleans en route to the Great Salt Lake City we have much pleasure in doing so.

In addition to your arduous duties as captain you have at all times shewed the gentleman the father and the friend for you have throughout the voyage manifested much anxiety for our comfort and welfare to such a degree as has most agreeably surprised us for it is our candid opinion that no company of emigrants were ever so happy or had so much attention shewn them by a person of your station.

Our people to an individual feel to tender you our best and warmest acknowledgments for such a line of conduct, for when they were sick you visited them and paid unremitting attention to their comfort. These and other marks of kindness from you call forth in us deep feelings of gratitude and respect and your name and generosity will ever have a warm place in our affections. [p.46]

And we pray God our Father to bless you, and give you health and many happy days, and make you the medium of much good in your day and generation, hoping you may bring many other companies, making them as happy as you have made us and we, Sir, shall ever be your most respectfully.

On behalf of the company on board the Falcon comprising 300 souls. May 9th 1853.
Signed by the Committee
To A.T. Wade, Captain.
To All Whom This May Concern.

This is to certify that we whose names are undersigned forming a committee on behalf of the company of Latter-day Saints en route to the Great Salt Lake City feel much pleasure in presenting this testimonial of our feelings to Mr. George Robert Little, mate of the ship Falcon for his courtesy and gentlemanly conduct to us during our passage from Liverpool to New Orleans.

We would not feel justified in parting from Mr. Little without expressing our heartfelt and grateful thanks for the many act of kindness rendered from him to us on the passage. Indeed we feel it a duty incumbent us as well to the public as to that gentleman to manifest our entire approbation of his [p.47] unremitting attention to those of our company who were afflicted with sickness and his general praiseworthy conduct towards us.

We beg to assure Mr. Little that he will ever be remembered by our company with feelings of gratitude and esteem and our prayer is that God may abundantly bless him together with all his interests and associations in life.
To Mr. G.R. Little, May 9th 1853 Signed by the Committee

At 4 o'clock the meeting of the Saints was called to order by President Bagnall. The clerk was then called upon to read the memorials which had been given to the captain and second mate which he did. Afterwards he read an acknowledgment which had been received from the same parties of which the following are copies – Mr. C. Bagnall
Dear Sir.

The certificate of thanks you have given me for what you are pleased to term my kindness &c has been received with deep gratitude and although I cannot claim to have done one iota [p.48] for you as passengers more than what I consider my duty still I am very much pleased to find that the manner of doing my duty has pleased you and tended to render you comfortable.

In return I can truly say that I have taken more pleasure with my present passengers, have been aided more by them in carrying out my wishes with regard to Sundry matters, have found universal among them that kind of cheerful obedience to all rules which makes government easy and pleasant. Indeed I have been better pleased with them on all occasions than I have been with any other that I ever brought.

I feel to thank you for the pains you have taken to maintain order and cleanliness amongst your people, thereby promoting in a very great degree the health we have all been blessed with during the passage thus far.

I hope the remainder of your long journey will be prosperous and that you may all be so happy as to arrive safely among your friends at Great Salt Lake City.

Please return my thanks to all the members of your council and committee.
Yours very truly,
Signed A. T. Wade
9/5/1853. [p.49]
Ship Falcon, Bath
Sailing from Liverpool to New Orleans
Mr. Cornelius Bagnall
President of the Latter-day Saints

Sir.

You will oblige me very much by returning my heart felt thanks to your council and Committee for the highly esteemed character they have presented me with this day of our Lord May 9th 1853, and of which I feel highly gratified within my own self to think I have the good will of such righteous gentlemen as the council and committee of Latter-day Saints are composed of and which I can cheerfully say that I have never seen a more comfortable or a more righteous or a better disciplined people than the Latter-day Saints had been on board the ship Falcon on her passage from Liverpool towards New Orleans and furthermore people that I would exhort myself to the uttermost when I thought I could do them good.

To conclude with I hope you will have a pleasant comfortable passage to the Great Salt Lake and that you will want for nothing and I hope the Lord will bless you all and protect you from all danger.
Signed George Robert Little
2nd Officer of the said ship Falcon
Of the Port of Bath
A.T. Wade
Master [p.50]

It was then moved by Elder McNaughton, seconded by Elder Attwood [Atwood] that President Bagnall should receive a memorial from us, carried. Moved by President Bagnall, seconded by Elder Cowdey [Cowdy] that Elders McNaughton and Caffall receive one likewise, carried. Moved by President Bagnall seconded by McNaughton that the 6 presidents of the different wards receive a memorial from us also Elder Stewart, Steward for the passengers, carried unanimous.

Moved by Elder Caffall, seconded by Elder Attwood [Atwood] that Brother James Jack who has acted as clerk receive memorial from us, carried.

Moved by McNaughton, seconded by Elder Aird that the stewards receive a vote of thanks which was heartily responded to.

Moved by Walker, seconded by McNaughton that the cooks receive a vote of thanks which was also heartily responded to. Moved by Elder Ross, seconded by Elder Muir that President Bagnall in connection with his counselors he appointed to draw up these memorials, carried. Moved by Elder Davis [Davies], seconded by Elder Caffall that Elder Richard Attwood [Atwood] be appointed to organize a guard over our luggage and take the charge of them when we get to New Orleans, carried. The meeting was ten dismissed by President Bagnall. [p.51]

Wednesday May 11th 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening. The place below was smoked out today afterwards washed and cleaned by the different stewards.

Thursday May 12th 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening. Remarks. In the evening a concert was held on deck commencing at 7 o'clock and was continued until 11 o'clock. We had a first rate meeting many of the songs of Zion were sung and all on board seemed pleased and satisfied with the nights amusements.

Friday May 13th 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening. Remarks. The passengers were all served with a weeks allowance of oat and flour meal, rice, biscuit, pork, tea, sugar, & salt.

Saturday May 14th 1853. Prayers morning and evening as usual. Remarks. President Bagnall and also Elders McNaughton and Caffall were presented with their testimonials today by Elder Attwood [Atwood]. Of which the following are copies.-- [p.52]
To All Whom This May Concern. Greeting.

We whose names are undersigned composing a committee on behalf of a company of Latter-day Saints en route to the Great Salt Lake City have much pleasure in presenting this testimonial of our warmest feelings and affections to our well beloved brother, Elder Cornelius Bagnall late Elder of the London Conference, England who was by S.W. Richards appointed President of the Saints on board the ship Falcon. Sailing from Liverpool to New Orleans which appointment he has discharged faithfully as a man of God, as an elder and a father to those he has had the honor to preside over for the every days transactions on board the ship has brought him out in bold relief, showing he was the most likely person in the company to fulfill such an important appointment, and without particularizing we have great pleasure in saying that his daily walk, judicious administrations, wise teachings, issuing from him from day to day as a servant of God, has caused the hearts of the Saints to rejoice and so raised him high in the estimation of his brethren in the priesthood as also the Saints over whom he has had the oversight. And the voice of the entire company is that God our Heavenly Father may bless him, and his, at all times and bring them and his happy party safe to Zion in peace, without a blemish or a spot. Even so amen. May 13th 1853. Signed by the committee. [p.53]
To All Whom This May Concern. Greeting.

We whose names are undersigned composing a committee on behalf of a company of Latter day Saints en route to the Great Salt Lake City, have much pleasure in presenting this testimonial of our warmest feelings and affections to our well beloved brother, Elder James McNaughton, counselor to President Bagnall and forming one of the Presidency on board the ship Falcon during the passage from Liverpool to New Orleans. We feel highly gratified and esteem it a privilege to express the feelings of the Saints over whom you in connection with your brethren in the presidency have so ably and wisely presided.

Dear Brother James, the fatherly care, and unremitting attention to the wants of those, over whom you have had the watch care, together with the wise and judicious teaching you have poured forth from the time to time coupled with the many acts of kindness we have experienced at your hands cause us to pause and feel that words are inadequate to express the feelings of love and affection we entertain towards you.

Accept then dear Brother the warmest feelings of our grateful hearts on this occasion - : May the Lord God of Joseph bless you until you are satisfied with the fullness there of crowning you with every exaltation that a faithful [p.54] servant of God could wish or desire is our prayer in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ-even so, amen.
To Elder James McNaughton. Signed by the committee. May 13th 1853.

The testimonial of Elder James Caffall is the same except the name. -

Sabbath May 15th 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening. At 11 o'clock the meeting was called to order for public worship by Elder Walker. Hymn sung, “Lo the Gentile Chain is Broken.” Prayer by Elder Mason.

The sacrament was then administered by Elders Bishop and Aird. The Saints then bore their testimony to the great work they were engaged in and a spirit of Love and obedience prevailed in our midst. At 4 o'clock a meeting was held on deck when the Saints were addressed by President Bagnall and Elders Logan, Aird and McNaughton.

Monday May 16th 1853. Meetings for prayers morning and evening. Remarks. At 15 minutes to 3 o'clock afternoon a pilot came on board. [p.55] At 30 minutes past 5 we crossed the bar being pulled by 2 steamers.

The testimonials of the 6 presidents of wards was presented to them today also Elder Stewart's and Priests James Jack's by Elder McNaughton of which the following are copies.
To Elder William Walker President of the 6th Ward on board the ship Falcon.

Dear Brother - We the servants of God having been employed on board the Falcon in devising and providing for the comfort and well being of the Saints committed to our charge, feel as we are about to leave here to return you our heartfelt gratitude for the kindness you have shown and for the promptitude you have manifested in the carrying out of those measures calculated to bless them, both temporally and spiritually.

You have on all occasions been unremitting in your attention to their needs for which the Saints feel to bless you and pray God our Father to bless you with every needful blessing for the benefit conferred. We concur with our hearty Amen. On board the Falcon May 16th 1853. Signed (by the first Presidency of the Vessel.) [p.56] The rest of the presidents are all the same except the names -

To Priest James Jack, clerk of a company of Saints on board the ship Falcon.

We return to you, our sincere thanks for the laborious services you have rendered in discharging the duties of secretary for this company of Saints in journeying this far on our way to Zion.

Your office and duty as recorder is an important one. Not only to this company but also to Posterity - for they with us will read that such a company crossed the Atlantic on board the ship Falcon and from the full and minute account you give in your record will it be seen, the close organization of this people, the real and intense interest the Saints manifested to bless and benefit each other in all things.

We pray God the Eternal Father to bless and reward you for your work of faith and love.

Signed on behalf of this company of Saints on board the Falcon. May 16th 1853. The names of the first Presidency of the ship.--

The testimonial of Elder Stewart has been neglected at this time, but will be inserted afterwards. [p.57]

Tuesday May 17th 1853 Meetings for prayer morning and evening. Nothing particular occurred today but we all felt great pleasure in sailing up the Mississippi River and in being so near the place of our destination.

Wednesday May 18th 1853. Meeting for prayer in the morning. At 12 o'clock we arrived at New Orleans and met Elder Brown, got such instructions from him as was necessary, and all the Saints got liberty to go onshore in the afternoon, except those who were appointed to take charge of the luggage, but were counseled not to stop late out at night, after it was dark, as they would be in great danger of getting some injury done to them.

List of the regulations of the guard as given by Captain Attwood [Atwood] and desired to be inserted here by President Bagnall.

No. 1. The guard will mount at 10 o'clock a.m. daily consisting until farther orders of 1 captain and 9 men.

No. 2. The captain newly mounting will receive his instructions from the captain of the old guard.

No. 3. The sentries will be relieved by the captain personally every two hours which will leave them two hours on and four off. [p.58]

No. 4. The sentries will receive orders from no person except the captain of their guard and Captain Attwood [Atwood].

No. 5. The captain of the guard will not receive orders from anyone except the first Presidency or Captain Attwood [Atwood].

No. 6. During the time the guard are not on sentry the captain may use his discretion in permitting them to go onshore but they must on no account leave the ship without his sanction.

No. 7. Two captains will mount during the 24 hours the first staying on from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., the second from 10 p.m. till the guard is relieved -

Thursday May 19th 1853 In the morning the clerk was instructed by President Bagnall to make a minute in regard to William Herd from the Edinburgh Conference who had taken down a sailor to his own berth, belonging to the ship Falcon of the name of Walter Bowie who had got his head cut and bruised and had refused to take him on deck when counseled by President Bagnall.

In the forenoon we got all our boxes on board the steamer “St. Nicolas,” afterwards the steamer moved a short distance down the river.

At 9 o'clock a man of the name of James McGregor form the Glasgow Branch of the Glasgow Conference fell over board and was drowned. Every exertion was made to save him by some of the brethren but of no avail as he was swept almost immediately below the vessel. [p.59]

Friday May 20th 1853 At 6 o'clock evening we sailed from New Orleans for St. Louis on board the steamer “St. Nicolas.” Elder Brown accompanying us.

Saturday May 21st 1853 In the forenoon all the names of the passengers were called over when there were belonging to the10 Pound Company and Emigration Company 223 ½ full passengers and also belonging this company, 41 who paid their own passage. The others were paid by Elder Brown. Married 15 min to 9 o'clock ceremony by Elder James McNaughton, George Robert Little from the state of Maine, Eastport, born 28th Jan. 1828, to Ann Aikman from Edinburgh Branch of the Edinburgh Conference, born at Edinburgh on the 9th day of January 1832. –

Sabbath May 22nd 1853 Meeting called for prayer in the morning by President Bagnall. Hymn sung, “Guide Us O Thou Great Jehovah.” Prayer by Elder Brown. In the evening at 8 o'clock meeting was called to order for prayer by W. Walker. Hymn sung, “Be It My Only Wisdom Here.” Prayer by President Bagnall.

Monday May 23rd 1853. Meeting called to order for prayer morning and evening at 8 o'clock as usual. [p.60]

The following is a copy of Elder William Stewart's Testimonial.
To Elder William Stewart.

We hereby certify the Brother William Stewart has acted as steward in a way and manner that calls forth our most unqualified approbation, and not only us, but also the entire company of Latter-day Saints on board the ship Falcon from Liverpool to New Orleans en route to the Great Salt Lake.

He by constant and diligent heed, to the interest and wants of the Saints, has merited their warmest feelings and affections. And we pray God our father to bless him in all his engagements and pursuits in life. On board the ship Falcon May 16, 1853. Signed in behalf of the company by the first presidency of the ship.

Tuesday May 24th 1853 Meetings for prayer morning and evening at 8 o'clock as usual.

Wednesday May 25th 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening. The remainder of the provisions which was left over while we were on board the Falcon were served out to the passengers. Also some provisions provided by Elder Brown. [p.61]

Thursday May 26th 1853. Meetings for prayer morning and evening.

Friday May 27th 1853. At 30 minutes past 4 o'clock morning we arrived at St. Louis saw Elder Eldridge and got all our boxes on board the Packet "Die Vernon" and sailed for Keokuk at 4 o'clock afternoon. George Little and Ann Aikman got a certificate of their marriage before leaving us at St. Louis.

Saturday May 28th 1853. At 4 o'clock afternoon we arrived at Keokuk and stopped in the depot all night.

Sabbath May 28th 1853. Baptized by Elder Hugh Priestly [Prestley] at Keokuk John Bullard Meredith, born at Dover Parish of St. Mary’s County of Kent England on the 25th day of October 1831. Also by Elder Hugh Priestly [Prestley] Archibald Meigle John, born at Glasgow Parish of Iron County of Lanark, Scotland in the year 1815.

We got all our luggage taken up to the camp got our tents pitched and our companies organized. [p.62]

Monday May 30th 1853 We got a weeks provisions served out to us, of [-] pounds flour and 1 ½ pounds bacon to each and individual [-]. President Bagnall gave in his report to Elder Haight and delivered over the balance of the money her received from S. M. Richards to him.

Tuesday May 31st 1853 The clerk was instructed by President Bagnall to call a meeting of the priesthood as 2 o’clock. Council met and was opened by prayer from Elder Cowdey [Cowdy]. Moved by President Bagnall, seconded by Elder Dowdy that a president be appointed for each tent and that the persons whose names are first on the tickets they have received by appointed for the present council. Moved by Elder [James] Bishop, seconded by Elder [-] that there be 6 presidents appointed over the 23 tents carried. Moved by Elder Cowdey [Cowdy], seconded by Elder Walker that Elder Joseph Gray be appointed to take the presidency of the first 4 tents carried. Moved by President Bagnall, seconded by Elder [William] Aird that Elder Walker by appointed to preside of the 3 tents of the Ten Pound Company carried. . . . [p.63]

. . . Sabbath 16th Started as the morning [-] at the mouth of the Hanya aftends drove to Great Salt Lake City and camped in the Public Square. Drove [-] camp to the Church Yard distance 7 miles. [p.98] [THIS IS THE END OF THIS JOURNAL]

BIB: Cornelius Bagnall Emigrating Company. pp. 1-63, 98. Journal. (HDA) (source abbreviations)