Laie Plantation, Oahu, Honolulu,
Hawaiian Islands, October 11th, 1883.
President Lorenzo Snow, Brigham City, Utah:
My Dear Father.—I take pleasure in writing you, and hope this letter will find you all well, as it leaves us. With occasional pleasant showers, the weather here is delightful. I presume you at home are all preparing for a cold winter.
Our cane crop is growing finely, a portion of which will probably be ready to take off in December, when we expect to commence grinding.
For several weeks past I have worked very hard, finishing up the painting of our new meeting house, attending many meetings in the afternoons and evenings.
Last week the brethren were very busy rebaptizing and confirming the people, numbering in all, including new members, five hundred and forty-nine. We took turns in baptizing. I baptized seventy-two—fourteen of this number were new baptisms. I baptized one woman whose weight is two hundred and sixty, and several who weigh over two hundred.
Saturday, October 6.—Hundreds of people were out early in the morning. Prior to this, we had received the announcement that the king, David Kalakauna, would honor us with his presence, and now the word is that the steamer on which he sails will land here at Laie at six a. m.
Every possible preparation had previously been made for the reception of His Majesty, and the plantation is now dotted all over with people. The women are dressed in all colors—some in silks and satins, some in native manufactured material, and all in their very best.
I have been assisting in making and decorating a crown, to be placed over an archway, through which the king will pass. In the archway is written in large letters, "E ola morn ka Moi"—in English, "Forever live the King." This motto is on the Makia side of the arch, and on the Mauka side is written "Hui hooulu Lahue," which means "To increase the nation." The arch is beautifully decorated with ferns and flags. The large gate near the sea is also nicely decorated with ferns, leaves and shrubs.