| 325 The following-named persons were baptized by Elder William H. Kelley: Stephen Smith, E. W. Knapp, James Otto, E. F. Hyde, and P. E. Knapp.
The special conference at String Prairie, Lee County, Iowa, June 20-22, was presided over by Joseph Smith; J. W. Gillen and William Anderson clerks.
The following named elders gave encouraging reports: John Shippy, Joseph Smith, James Burgess, Henry Cuerden, J. W. Gillen, Loren Page, and William Anderson.
The following instruction was given by President Smith:-
"There are a good many of the saints who are scattered, and do not stand connected with any branch, who do not have the privilege of associating with the saints. They should have our faith and prayers, and in order that they may gain the confidence of those with whom they associate, they should practice what they believe and teach. They must not talk of judgment or boast of mighty faith. There is another thing that they should avoid; that is, mixing in politics to an undue degree, for we are apt to get irritated. This does not preclude us from using our right of elective franchise, but to the contrary, it is our duty to vote for the best men; and the man that does not vote is just as much to blame for having bad men in office as those who vote for them. We should use all the means we have in our power to inform ourselves so that we can vote understandingly.
"Another thing should be avoided by the elders; and that is, preaching so hard against the various denominations, or otherwise pulling down the doctrine of the various sects, instead of building up our own. We should preach the peaceable things of the kingdom. There should be no malice, anger, or hatred; all should be kind and affectionate one to another, exercising love and charity to all. There should be no talebearing and if we are injured, say nothing at the time, but think of it and consider whether it is worthy of our notice, and let us try and forgive them; and let us examine ourselves and see if we have done altogether right.
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