| 27 The conference closed on Sunday the 7th. On the last day Elder D. S. Mills was set apart under the hands of Presidents Joseph Smith and D. H. Smith to preside over the Third Quorum of Elders.
The following editorial comment was published in Herald for September 15:
The General Semiannual Conference is over, and by all who participated in its business or worship, that we have heard express an opinion, decided that a profitable time was enjoyed by them.
The business of the conference; the very able and worthy sermons preached there; the good feeling engendered by the assembling and social mingling of the Saints, as well as the effect produced by the gathering of so large a body of people, will tell favorably for the extension of our cause. The blessing and approval of God rested upon the assembly, as made manifest through the gifts; and the people near its site, not of our faith, manifested a spirit of hospitality and kindness truly commendable.
Most of those residing at Plano, who attended the conference, have returned to their homes. President Joseph Smith remained in Western Iowa for the purpose of visiting the Saints and aiding in forwarding the work in that section and preaching the word. Elder Wm. W. Blair remained also to preach and visit the branches; in consequence of this it was deemed necessary that Bro. David H. Smith should return and assist in the work of the Herald Office, where he has been employed since the close of the spring conference.-The Saints' Herald, vol. 20, p. 578.
The following from the pen of Elder J. S. Patterson from Birmingham, England, gives quite a comprehensive view of the situation in Europe:
I am pleased to be able to state that so far as I am aware, the working portion of the priesthood are united, and anxious for the success of our cause; and many of them, considering the circumstances that surround them, are making noble sacrifices for its advancement. Late advices from Brn. Avondet and Bear, in Italy and Switzerland, show that they are untiring in their efforts, and are making slow, but sure progress on the enemy's works; but they are battling single-handed against heavy odds, and without the necessary ammunition (i. e., the printed words). I am pleased to learn, however, that they are expecting some soon; may God speed their efforts. Advices from Scotia [Scotland] state that the few there are still in the faith, but not adding to their numbers; while in England we are pleased to say that several have put on Christ by baptism, and the spiritual condition of some branches is considerably improved. While last in London, the brethren there were putting forth their best efforts for the cause. Brn. Owen and Barnes have rented a meeting-room in a respectable portion of Stoke Newington, at a rent of
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