Shady Grove, Hickman Co., Tenn. April 17, 1878

Mrs. Mary S. Clark,

Dear Mother:

I have just received your letter that came to hand last night while we were over the Duck River holding a meeting in a private house according to previous appointment about two miles from here. There is an increase of interest generally speaking in the different places that we have visited. We returned here this morning and received your letter and also one from Orson Rogers.

I was glad to hear from you once more and that you were all well. I neglected to mention the receiving of the Juveniles and Women’s Exponents, also History of Utah which were received alright. I have distributed them around but they feel pretty poor but were pleased to read them. The weather is getting very warm here. Yesterday in walking about three miles to visit a family to talk to, a woman whose husband we baptized; she is believing but it seems hard for her to receive; but what I was going to say, while going there my shirt became badly torn. I am wearing red-flannel garments. If you have got some linen ones already, you might send them to me as I don’t know how much longer I will stay here. The Lord being willing, we will start for Palestine, a distance of about 25 miles, tomorrow, being our third trip to that place. There seems to be quite an opening in that vicinity to hear of the principles of Truth; for it seems that they haven’t heard any Elders in that vicinity previous to our going there. We expect to spend about a week before we return. Will have horses to ride. Bro. & Sister Church have gone to Duck River a fishing but they do not bite very much. It is about like fish for men, not very many caught. Well, Uncle is going to write and he can tell you all. He is now reading the Deseret News dated April 10, 1878, having in it the news of Conference. Hoping to hear from you soon, I am as ever your obedient son, love to Father and all the folks.

Hyrum D.C. Clark

P.S. I received the Post Office order alright, with thanks. I should have written before but going around and being away from home lately, haven’t had much time. We have not yet received the letter mentioned in your last letter dated Apr. 1st, 1878. There is and has been considerable sickness in this part of the country lately; some among the Saints but are recovering fast.

Hope Amasa will continue reading the Book of Mormon for there are lots of little boys who do not have this chance. I distribute my books and let them preach the Gospel. Only wish I had a dictionary to look at once in a while.

Thursday morning April 18, 1878 6 o’clock AM. Now at Duck River Ferry waiting for the mail carrier; is raining some. Just 5 months from home. Our healths are good and hope this will find you all well. Mail carrier has come. Good bye. H. Clark.

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Mary Stevenson Clark, Hyrum’s Mother