| 333 we had the appearance of a village of wigwams, and the night being clear, we began to enjoy some degree of comfort.
"About two o'clock the next morning we were aroused from our slumbers by the cry of 'Arise, and behold the signs in the heavens.' We arose, and to our great astonishment all heaven seemed enwrapped in a splendid fireworks, as if every star in the broad expanse had been suddenly hurled from its course and sent lawless through the wilds of ether. I can give the reader no better idea of this scene than by allusion to the shooting of a bright meteor with a long train of light following its course such as most of us have seen in a bright starlight night. Now suppose that thousands of such meteors with their fiery trains were to run lawless through the heavens for hours together, this would be a scene such as our eyes beheld on that memorable morning; and the scene only closed by giving place to the superior light and splendor of the king of day. No sooner was this scene beheld by some of our camp than the news reached every tent and aroused every one from their slumbers; every eye was lifted towards the heavens, and every heart was filled with joy at this majestic display of signs and wonders showing the near approach of the coming of the Son of God.
"In fact we looked up and lifted up our heads rejoicing, knowing that our redemption drew near. It is a singular coincidence that this wonder should happen at the very time of our dispersion. And let others think as they may, I take it as a special manifestation to fulfill the Scriptures, and to rouse our drooping spirits, by a fresh memorial, reminding us of a coming Messiah for the redemption of those who look for him; and to the destruction of their oppressors.
"After a few days I sent a lad with a horse for my wife, who escaped in safety by riding fifteen miles on horseback; leaving all our goods, which, however, I afterwards obtained at the risk of my life. But all my provisions for the winter were destroyed or plundered; and my grain left growing on the ground for our enemies to harvest. My house was afterwards
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