| 255 who had been left there by Brn. Wandell and Rodger, who spoke English, had gone away from the Island, and that the presiding elder left in charge had been deposed and severed for sufficient reasons.
There are a number of islands adjacent to Tahiti, upon which Bro. Nelson reports numbers of believers, and deems it of importance to try to obtain a hearing upon them. He intends making the effort.
3. THE ENGLISH MISSION. From reports received we deem it essential that a change be made in the presidency of the Welsh Mission, and suggest the name of John R. Gibbs. We also think it important that, if the church is now prepared to meet the expense, there should be an active elder sent, who can stay for two years at the least.
4. THE DANISH MISSION. Bro. Peter N. Brix is trying to do a good work, and it is necessary that some one be sent to aid him, or to take up the work where he may leave it.
The Presidency attempted to supply one to this mission, but failed, for obvious reasons.
5. THE CALIFORNIA MISSION. Bro. D. S. Mills has resigned the presidency of this mission, and we recommend that Bro. Joseph F. Burton be appointed in his stead. Bro. Mills has been very faithful in his service, and his resignation was advised by President Joseph Smith, for causes of a local character, affecting the progress of the work in some localities, but not affecting the character of Bro. Mills. In this connection we regret to state that the health of Bro. Mills has failed him, and, as informed by Bro. H. P. Brown, it is feared that he will soon pass beyond the river. He is an estimable man and full of sympathy and noble resolution. It is fair to state that many of the branches are opposed to his resignation.
6. THE CASE OF BRO. J. W. BRIGGS. The resolution of the semiannual conference, authorizing the Presidency to call a proper council, before which the question at issue might be placed, seemed to point out the necessity of some other body than any that had been named in connection with it. In pursuance of this view, correspondence was had with Elder Briggs, in regard to the number and composition of said council, and it was soon apparent that the only course left to the Presidency, was to issue a general call to the class of officers from which such council could be chosen, to assemble at the present session, with the intention then to perform the duty imposed by said resolution. Subsequently to this call we learned that in all probability Elder Briggs would not be able to attend. Later still, we have received an article from Elder Briggs, which will be laid before you for action. Your action in the premises will dispose of our duty. Other explanation will be made if found necessary. . . .
8. THE UTAH MISSION. It appears that under all the circumstances now surrounding this mission, it should be vigorously prosecuted. The position hitherto assumed by the Reorganization is coming into prominent notice, and the time for a strong effort is at the doors. We deem it wise that the chapel in Salt Lake City should be finished at an early date.
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