| 764 Florence branch, represented by Brother C. Dunn, sixteen members, one high priest.
Seven members unorganized in Barry county, represented by Elder E. M. Webb.
Elder Dunn delivered a discourse instructing the saints to live in union and strictly obey the law of the gospel.
An investigation was then had into the situation of this branch of the church and all difficulties were settled to the satisfaction of all parties.
The following resolutions were then offered by Elder E. M. Webb:-
Resolved, that we will sustain the "Twelve" and all the authorities of the church, and abide by their counsel as far as in us lies.
Resolved, that we will tithe ourselves according to our several abilities to aid in building the temple at Nauvoo.
Resolved, that a treasurer be appointed having a recommend from this conference whose duty shall be to travel through the conference to receive tithings, consecrations, and donations, and collect all the means possible and forward the same at his earliest convenience to Nauvoo to the "trustee in trust."
Resolved, that Elder Crandall Dunn be appointed said treasurer.
Resolved, that Brother Thomas Forsyth be ordained a priest, and he was then ordained under the hands of Elders Webb and Savage.
Resolved, that the minutes of this conference be sent to Nauvoo with a request that they be published in the Times and Seasons.
Resolved, that this conference adjourn sine die.
During conference one was baptised [baptized] and three infants blessed.
CRANDALL DUNN, Chairman.
Stephen C. Willard, Clerk.
COMMUNICATIONS.
Chicago, December 13, 1844.
Dear brother in the Lord:
I sit down to address a few lines to you, to inform you how we are getting along here. The brethren are in good spirits and are rejoicing in the bonds of the new and everlasting covenant.
We were glad to hear that you had a good time at conference, for the good feeling that was manifested and determination to carry out Bro. Joseph's views and principles in general, and also the Patriarch, and to stand by the "Twelve" in all their duties. We are one with you, and are determined to do all we can under your instruction in this glorious cause, in which the salvation of all men are concerned.
The branch now contains 34 members and a prospect of its increasing. This branch was re-organized on the 22nd of February last. The president was elected by ballot; the spirit of the Lord attended us and the brethren were all of one mind in choosing their head. I wish you simply to notice the time of the organising [organizing] of this branch in the Times and Seasons.
I now send the remainder of the money for that paper. I would also say that we are determined to do all we can to forward the temple; if the high priest that is appointed for this part has not left I want you to see him and tell him to come here as soon as he can. I remain your brother in the Lord, &c.
SAMUEL SHAW.
Nauvoo, Dec. 21, 1844.
Mr. Editor:
Soon after the conference of April last, I received my appointment or mission to the State of New York. I therefore took leave of my family, in company with Elder John Tanner to the place appointed, by way of the river to Pittsburg [Pittsburgh]; and from thence to Buffalo on foot, two hundred and forty miles, lifting up our voices in every place where we had opportunity, in the midst of the people, proclaiming repentance and baptism for remission of sin, and laying on of hands for the reception of the Holy Spirit, as in ancient days.
From thence we took passage on board a line boat for Troy; there were many passengers on board who desired to hear preaching, and obtained the cabin for that purpose; we commenced by prayer to the throne of grace for the aid of the Holy Spirit. I then commenced at the twentieth chapter of Mathew [Matthew], the kingdom of heaven is likened unto a man who is an householder &c.; in the midst of my discourse a number of Catholics interrupted me in a very rough and insulting manner. At length the gentlemen who had obtained the cabin for preaching, requested them to leave immediately, and I went through with my discourse. Some believed, among them a Methodist minister, who that night following was awakened by a singular dream, which I will mention:
He called the passengers around him the next morning and said I dreamed a dream last night and it troubles me. I thought I was in the midst of many people, and I lifted up my voice and cried repentance in a such a manner as I had never done before; and immediately I heard the wild beasts from the wilderness begin to roar and howl in a wonderful manner, and gather around me. I found myself in great danger. He had a feeling sense of his dream, and said, can any of you tell what it
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