Sir– The progress of Mormonism or the doctrine of the Latter Day Saints in , the closing of ’s official labors in the east; preparations making for his immediate departure for the west; the great Mormon tea party at Boylston Hall, that came off in high glee; and your liberality in giving to the readers of your ‘busy Bee’ the latest news on every subject;— has induced me to give you a short sketch of the closing up of the labors of this great apostle of Mormonism in . On Thursday evening, March 23rd, agreeable to appointment, addressed an immensely large concourse of people, on the character and mission of Joseph Smith, the prophet. In speaking of him, he bears a positive and direct testimony to the divinity of his mission. He does this without hesitation; just as if he meant what he said, and said what he meant. He does not say he hopes Joseph Smith is a true prophet, but says he is positive that such is the fact.— On Sabbath, March 26th, during the day, he introduced Elder E.P. Magnum and gave him a high recommendation as an able minister of the fulness of the gospel, who is to take his place in for the present. He also spoke of Elder one of the Twelve apostles, that would probably visit them this spring — and according to ’s account of him, he must be a perfect Apollo in learning and eloquence. As usual, The Boylston Hall was a perfect jam during the day and evening. On Tuesday evening, he gave his farewell lecture. That was a rich treat indeed, embodying the outline of the faith and doctrine of Latter Day Saints.— But on Wednesday evening, at the great tea party, was the time it was clearly manifested that kindest feelings existed in this towards the Mormons. There was present on that occasion over 500 people: 350 sat down at the first table. After supper, delivered a very appropriate and eloquent address. It was listened to with profound attention, during which time we saw the tear start many an eye— plainly indicating that they deeply regretted that was about to leave them. During his remarks he spoke very beautifully of “the marriage supper of the Lamb,” that was to wind up this last dispensation— cause creation to cease to groan— and usher in the long look<​ed​> for period, when universal religion, liberty and toleration shall be proclaimed from ‘mountain top to mountain top, and every man in every place, shall meet a brother and a friend.’ [HC 5:322] It seems strange to many that should be called away at this time, as his very name is a tower of strength to the Mormon cause in the east. Thousands are looking for the day when he shall return; petitions are getting up here and elsewhere for his return. This is as it should be, and we sincerely hope that the authorities of the Church at the West, will see it their duty to send him to us again as soon as possible. He left with the prayers and blessings of the saints and friends, and I have no hesitation in saying, that thousands will hail with joy the day of his return.

Yours truly, (not a Mormon, but) one of the many friends to that much abused people. D. W. R. , April 1. 1843.