River Mersey, on board the Manchester, May 6, 1862.

Dear, President Cannon, --I left Birmingham for Liverpool on Saturday, 3rd instant, and on arriving in Liverpool, accompanied a few brethren to the above-named vessel. Having previously learned that I was to conduct her passengers over the sea, I commenced work to make the Saints as comfortable as the circumstances would admit of; [p.315] and while working among the luggage, I was glad to see that boxes, in a great measure, were superseded by waterproof bags. Monday was spent in getting ready for sea; and between one and two o'clock on Tuesday morning, we left the dock, and were towed out into the river, where we cast anchor, served out provisions, and prepared for passing the Government officers, who came on board about 12, noon. We afterwards held a meeting, the Presidency of the European Mission being present, when the following organization took place:--Elder J. [John D.] T. McAllister was appointed President of the company, with Elders Samuel L. Adams and Mark Barnes as his Counselors.

My labors during the four months that I have been in England must speak for themselves. This much I can say, it has been my desire to preach the gospel of Christ in plainness, and save the honest in heart.

I pray the blessings of the priesthood and all that pertains to the new and everlasting covenant to be with you and with all those who are striving to advance the cause of Christ upon earth, at home and abroad.

Yours truly in the bonds of peace,

John D.T. McAllister.Faversham, Kent, May 2, 1862.[p.316]

BIB: McAllister, John D.T. [Letter] Latter-day Saints Millennial Star 24:20 (May 17, 1862) pp. 315-316. (CHL)
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