| 327 resort to every means to prevent their members hearing us. We placarded this and the adjoining towns and called a large number together two Sundays, in an open space in the city, inviting them to defend their false doctrines; but they proved their identity with the dumb dogs spoken of by the ancient prophet, though Mr. Cannon, and the president of Wales, and the president of the Merthyr conference, were in the city.
"We have the 'Word of Consolation' revised, translated into Welsh, and now in press, and will be out next week. Bro. Jeremiah is in Monmouthshire, where he has been mostly since I came into Wales. I have visited a number of towns within ten miles of this place; viz.: Aberdare, Aberaman, Cymbach, Llirwin, Dowlais, Rhymney, and New Tredegar. In all these places there are old saints, not connected with the Brighamites. Some have been baptized and others have applied for it. We called a special conference, July 19, at which time eight elders and two priests were appointed to labor in these different places, and they are doing so every Sunday. We make it a rule to ordain or reordain no one except he promises to go to work by virtue of his office and labor to make others hear, and they all seem willing to do so.
"A week ago last Sunday we held nine meetings, and we have seven appointed for tomorrow in this vicinity, besides what Brn. Derry and Jeremiah are doing; the last is twenty-five miles, and the former ninety-five miles from here. The Brighamites here tithed the saints until some were compelled to seek relief from the parish, and then, lo, they tithed that which they received. The war bears hard upon the workmen in this country. Trade is slack, and wages are low and uncertain.
"The Spirit bears witness to the Reorganization through the gifts abundantly in Wales, as well as in America. My best respects to your brothers, Alexander and David, and all the saints. May God bless you all.
"Yours sincerely,
"J. W. BRIGGS."
"MERTHYR TYDVIL, Wales, August 1, 1863."
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