This evening our class met at Mr. Seixas' room and spent an hour in our studies. Class dismissed and retired, except the school committee, who tarried and made some arrangements with Mr. Seixas about continuing longer with us and bringing his family to this place. This has been a very stormy day, and the snow is still falling fast, and the prospect is fair for another run of sleighing, which is uncommon for this country at this season of the year.
The Prophet's Reflection on Intemperance.
Saturday, 12.—Engaged a team to go to Hudson after Mr. Seixas' family and goods, also a horse and carriage for himself and wife. Cold weather and fine sleighing. I was informed today that a man by the name of Clark, who was under the influence of ardent spirits froze to death last night, near this place. How long, O Lord, will this monster intemperance find its victims on the earth! I fear until the earth is swept with the wrath and indignation of God, and Christ's kingdom becomes universal. O, come, Lord Jesus, and cut short Thy work in righteousness.
Elder Solomon Hancock received a letter from Missouri bearing the painful intelligence of the death of his wife. May the Lord bless him and comfort him in this hour of affliction.
Removal of the Presidency and Twelve to Zion Contemplated.
Sunday, 13.—Met with the Presidency and some of the Twelve, and counseled with them upon the subject of removing to Zion this spring. We conversed freely upon the importance of her redemption, the necessity of the Presidency removing to that place, that their influence might be more effectually used in gathering the Saints to that country; and we finally resolved to emigrate on or before the 15th of May next, if kind Providence smiles upon us and opens the way before us.
Monday, 14.—Attended school as usual. Professor Seixas returned from Hudson with his family.
Tuesday, 15.—At school in the forenoon.
In the afternoon met in the printing office. Received and waited upon those who called to see me, and attended to my domestic concerns.
In the evening met in the printing office and listened to a lecture on grammar.