Having been aware that some of you children have criticized and censured some of the steps I have taken in the past, particularly that of polygamy I wish you to know that in so doing I felt that it was the will of the Lord.

It has been my purpose to emphasize the importance of the knowledge and testimony you possess of the will of the Lord concerning his children here upon the Earth: A knowledge that is the greatest gift of mankind, and when you think of the comparative few who have been given this opportunity, let me say to you on this occasion that you should value highly this inheritance.

If we have left you little else but to create in each of our children a desire to live up to the ideals and principles of this great plan, we can feel highly gratified, especially in these perilous time when the very backbone of civilization is threatened.

I beseech each one of you to use the knowledge you possess. Let your associates feel the strong influence it has in your lives. Better acquaint yourselves with Gospel teachings, and so live that your conduct radiates its strength and beauty -- that you will be a power for good among men. Hold your heads high, unafraid to look any man squarely in the eye, knowing you have wronged no one.

And when you are faced with difficulties, which you all will be at one time or another, take your problems to the Lord in prayer. In this way you will gain strength and wisdom with which to handle them.

Be tolerant and kind to each other. Meet together often and partake of the spirit of integrity which we have tried to leave in trust with you. Go to the House of the Lord together.

And now I leave you with my blessing: That you will all come out of this chaos victoriously and that none of you will be given a trial or a cross that you cannot bear nobly and with dignity, is my prayer concerning each of you, my children.

(Signed) Your Father

"Use guarded restraint" was a much used admonition by him, to all of us. He often said that he valued his credit more than all his property.

Thelma Clark

Box 3171

Carmel, California

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