Frederick William Hurst

The Diary of Frederick William Hurst, originally compiled by Samuel H. and Ida Hurst in 1961, typed in electronic format with minor spelling corrections by Joyce Holt in 2000.

Inasmuch as I have seen many ups and downs, and passed through many changing scenes, especially of late years, it has entered my mind to write a brief history of my life.

I was born of Christian parents on the Isle of Jersey, June 30, 1833 (according to the record kept in the old family bible). My father kept the Victoria Nursery, St. Clement's Road, for about four years. My youngest brother, Charles Clement Hurst, was born in the above mentioned nursery, May 28, 1839. In the latter part of that year, I think in September, my father sold out and we embarked on board the steamer, "Transit," and after a voyage of two days we landed at Gravesend, England. From there we went down into Essex to visit our relations. About this time there was quite an excitement raised in regard to the colonization of the islands of New Zealand. My father caught the fever. He thought it would be better to go to a new country, especially as ours was a large family, numbering 6 children, myself included, and most of us young (though if all my brothers and sisters had lived there would have been eleven of us). I am the tenth, consequently the youngest but one. There were four of us boys and two girls.

Sometime in the month of December, 1839, with a company of immigrants we embarked on board the BARQUE BOLTON bound for New Zealand, and after a long weary voyage of five months, the greater part of which time my father and I were very sick, insomuch so that the Doctors thought we would never recover. However, sometime in April, 1840, we landed in what is now the city of Wellington. At that time the trees grew down to the water's edge. These Islands were very thickly timbered with pines and other trees.

The Islands of New Zealand are very mountainous, the climate very temperate and healthy. The aborigines, when we first went there were very friendly and hospitable, but before the end of the year 1840, owing to the imposition and oppression of the whites, the natives took up arms and commenced by murdering whole families. Consequently, every able bodied person, my father and eldest brother among the number, had to turn out and drill, and build forts, etc. The H. M. Frigate NORTH STAR brought troops, but like the American Indians the New Zealanders would not come out in the open field but kept in the brush. It is so long ago that I cannot remember the number of ships of war, or the numbers of regiments of soldiers that came there shortly after the war broke out, suffice it to say, there was a great deal of blood shed before peace was declared sometime in 1847.

Sometime in 1845 my eldest brother, Alfred, joined the militia, and my father and my brother, Alexander, joined the volunteers. I had a desire to join the latter, but was considered too small, indeed I could not present a musket. However, I used to practice shooting with a light fowling piece that father brought from England. Although I did not join any particular company, I, with a number of other boys about the same age, was drilled every afternoon. We would go to school about 10 o'clock A.M. and stay till 2 P.M., then an old sergeant would drill us until 6 P.M. Sometime we would have to go and assist in making fortification.

Long will I remember the month of May, 1846. My father had taken up a tract of land in or near a place called Karori, about four miles from Wellington. We had a young man by the name of Haney Mason working for us. He, my eldest brother, Alfred, and myself were felling brush and clearing the land for cultivation. The rest of the family were then living in town. On Sunday, the 16th of May, Alfred started early in the morning for provisions, as we were nearly out of food. Not long after he left, our dog, a large Newfoundland, commenced barking most furiously. We ran out of our hut to learn the cause. There we found a man cursing and swearing, and the dog trying to get at the man's throat. We called the dog off and the man went away. At first we thought the natives had come. If they had, we determined to sell our lives dearly, for we knew if we were taken alive, we would suffer an awful death and then be eaten up by the Cannibals.

We were building a large house to live in, and as my youngest sister Amelia's birthday was near at hand, we wanted to get it finished in time; as they talked of coming up to spend the day and bringing a number of young people of our acquaintance. Among the number was the Reverend Jonas Woodward and daughter, and the Misses Edwards. (I would state that the Reverend Mr. Woodward was a Calvinist, and my father, mother, brother Alfred, and sister Selina had joined his church. I would state here that the Reverend Woodward did not preach for hire, but earned his own living elsewhere.)

Well, to return to my story, Sunday passed off quietly. When Monday came we set to work on our new house. We worked all day and the following night with but very little food to eat. We had a little flour in a small cask, but the dog got his head into it and ran into the brush with it sometime Sunday night. There being plenty of game in the shape of birds, I went out and shot some which we roasted and ate with a couple of potatoes, without salt. Monday passed away, still Alfred did not return. As I before stated, we worked all night, and on Tuesday morning, May 18, Alfred arrived bringing not only the provisions, but also the before mentioned young people to spend the day, and a happier day I had never spent.

When I think back it all appears like a dream, but like all other days of pleasure or otherwise, it had an end. In the evening we accompanied them about a mile on the road and then Haney and I returned; my brother, Alfred, intending to return the next morning. After returning home, Haney amused me all the rest of the evening, telling tales of Lord Nelson, and other noted characters. Just after we had turned into bed the dog barked and presently we heard footsteps. We got our gun ready, then hailed. Much to our surprise, we were answered by both Alfred and Alexander, they informed us they had come to fetch us home, for Rangiheta, the chief in command over the Natives, was going to take the city of Wellington the next morning and eat up all whites for breakfast. They also informed us that father and mother were very uneasy about us, and previous to leaving home they had promised to be back by midnight at the latest.

Before leaving, however, we thought we would try and eat up all the provisions so as not to leave anything for the enemy. Again we wanted to be prepared for any emergency, for we did not know what might happen. After eating, we decided to wait for the moon to arise, as our road lay through a very dense forest the first mile or two. As soon as the moon arose we took up our line of march as follows: Alfred went in advance with the cow, armed with a firing piece loaded with ball; Haney Mason next with Sundries, armed with a musket loaded with bullets; then Alexander, with the bedding and a bayonet; and I brought up the rear leading a one year old steer, and armed with an American axe.

When we got within two miles of home, we met a large company of men under the command of Mr. Rapp, a lawyer. When they met us they called out, "Who comes there!" Instead of Alfred answering, "A friend," he merely said "Me." The men, according to orders, presented their muskets ready to fire at us, but Alexander called out, "FRIEND" and then they let us pass. We reached home in safety just before daylight and found them in dreadful fright, they thinking we had fallen into the hands of the enemy.

Several Men of War were laying in port, also H. M. War Steamer INFLEXABLE. All the men who could be spared were sent on shore, for it was expected that the enemy would attack the town early in the morning. However, morning came and no enemy, they learning through their spies we were too well prepared to receive them. I was never more fatigued in my life, and enemy or no enemy, as soon as we reached home, I lay down and fell asleep, for I had been up three nights.

Sometime in September following, my father leased another piece of land in Karori, close by the main road. They had built a fort at this place out of large pine logs. There was quite a large settlement there at that time. About this time, Haney Mason left us and shipped on board H. M. Frigate COLLIAPE. Alexander was still living at Mr. James Taines Groceries Hardware and Earthenware store. Soon after father had taken the land I mentioned, Alfred, Clement and myself went to work on it, but Alfred was sparking at the time, and consequently, Clement and I were left to ourselves most of the time. Father had a nursery in town and that required all of his attention. Indeed, sometime he would be very sick for he was much troubled with the Asthmatic cough, and was, therefore, unable to do much work.

I remember a little circumstance that happened one day as Clement and I were at work digging a piece of ground. He accidently fell with his right arm under my spade just as I was chopping out a root. If the spade had been sharp, it would have taken his hand off, but as it was it cut through a muscle but broke no bones. Alfred took him to town and I was left alone all night to reflect on my clumsiness, and I resolved to be more careful in the future.

Seeing Alfred was careless and indifferent about the farm, and that, young as I was, I had to attend to everything, I thought to go on my own hook, so much against Alfred's will, I took a situation at Mr. Robert Langdon's Grocery, Hardware, and Ironmonger's Store. I have wished a thousand times since that I had been apprenticed to a carpenter, however, I entered upon my new duties about December 1846. I stayed with Mr. Langdon till the latter part of 1847, soon after hostilities had ceased and peace was declared.

I had nearly forgotten a little circumstance that occurred about the close of the war as follows. One Sunday, while all the folks were in Church, an alarm was sounded that the Natives had attacked the other end of the settlement, two miles from our house and six miles from town, and they were burning houses and everything before them. The Reverend Jonas Woodward was right in the middle of his sermon when the messenger burst open the doors and roared out at the top of his voice, "The natives have come, the natives have come." Out ran the parson followed by most of the congregation, leaving the balance fainting and screaming. As there was nobody to look after them, the poor little dears had to come to as best they could. As stated before, the preacher and most of the congregation had rushed to the scene of action named. In the meantime a messenger had been dispatched to town for reinforcements, but the whole affair turned out to be a hoax. A girl by the name of Susan Hallard, out of sheer devilment, had raised all the fuss, and even went so far as to light a fire in the center of their own house and the people got there just in time to save it from burning down. Besides, she was throwing stones into the neighbors' houses, smashing their windows.

Through the persuasion of my brother, Alfred, I left Mr. Langdon's toward the latter part of the year, 1847, and again tried farming. He bought several cows and we started on a large scale, keeping a dairy. In the meantime the whole of our family had moved into the country, with the exception of Alexander, who still lived with Mr. Taines. I spent the whole of the year 1848 at home, farming or clearing land. Nothing of importance transpired until about the 15th of October when the city of Wellington was nearly destroyed by earthquake. Most of the brick and stone houses and chapels were destroyed, and scarcely a chimney escaped being thrown to the ground, also some two or three persons killed, and one human actually died with fright.

According to the traditions of the natives, this Island was entirely broken up by earthquakes about 100 years previous, in fact, soon after we landed we were almost shook out of our beds, and not a year elapsed without minor shocks were felt. Strange to say, they were nearly always felt after heavy rains, indeed at the time I am writing about there had been uncommonly heavy rains.

The first shocks were felt about 20 minutes past 2 a.m. Monday. Being slightly sick with a headache, I was lying awake at the time, the wind was blowing a hurricane, and the rain pouring down. On a sudden the wind and rain ceased, a dreadful rumbling sound was heard, speedily followed by a heavy earthquake shock. At first the house reeled to and fro and then appeared to sink into the earth. I cannot describe my feelings on that occasion. Many people stated that every time they felt a shock, it caused them to feel sick, for my part, it made me feel like Pat did when he visited his lady love, my heart flew into my mouth.

Next morning I accompanied my brother, Alexander, into town. When we arrived there, all was confusion. The people thought surely the world was come to an end or that the whole city was going to be swallowed up. The day was very dark and cloudy. Many people left the city and went to the mountains; the earth was not quiet till Tuesday morning, then the clouds cleared away and the sun shone brightly. I never saw a finer or more pleasant day; most people thought that the earthquakes had ceased and set to work rebuilding their chimneys that had been thrown down, but about half past two p.m. there came a shock much heavier than the first. Alfred and I were in the bush at the time and I never shall forget the way the tall pines clashed one against another. Some were torn up by the roots, limbs and branches were falling in all directions, but we escaped unhurt and immediately returned home.

The people assembled from one end of the settlement to the other to the meeting house, and the next day was set apart for fasting and prayer. All the vessels there, lying in port, were filled with frightened multitudes, and in fact one vessel started to go to Sydney, New South Wales, but got wrecked before they got out of the heads and barely escaped with their lives. The vessel was totally lost.

Thursday morning about 5:30 o'clock, we experienced another shock, heavier than any previous, this brought everything to the ground that was not made of wood. The people flocked to the Chapels that were left standing. Many became what they called converted and joined the various churches, many put me in mind of the prophets of Baal, they would shout and roar as if their God was asleep or on a journey, ...

(Here a page is missing from the Journal. The next page begins with his brother, Alexander's sickness.)

When the doctor arrived and saw the condition he was in, said, "How you have been deceiving me, I have been murdering you." He soon ascertained that my brother was severely ruptured, and immediately sent for another doctor. Finally four of the best doctors attended him, had him removed to a hospital and then they operated upon him, but he died shortly afterward. Before he died however, he told the doctors he had ruptured himself several times, but had kept it to himself. It makes me sad to think over these reminiscences of the past, consequently I will close this chapter and rest a while.

After the death of my brother Alexander, I felt that I must exert myself more than ever and try all in my power to make up for the loss of my brother's help and comfort my parents and brothers and sisters. I felt that I could not do too much for them, in fact, I felt that I must be a man. Well, afterward Mr. Taines, with whom my brother had been living, offered much higher wages than I was getting at Messers. Landon and Spinkes, to go and take my Brother's place, but they were not agreeable at the time and promised to raise my salary. But shortly afterward they dissolved partnership and Mr. Langdon retired from business, and furthermore I met with an accident which nearly proved fatal to me. I slipped off the landing out of the loft and nearly broke my back, and I was ill for six or eight weeks, and when I did get about again I was so weak, and consequently I could not do as much work as I was accustomed to. And when Mr. Spinks found I was not so strong as I used to be, he told me if I wished to go to Mr. Taines I might, as he could not afford to give me a higher salary than he was. Accordingly I made arrangements with Mr. Taines and shifted my position immediately. This was some time in June, 1851.

After I had been in this place about one year, I thought I would do better by going to the gold mines in Australia. (If I remember right, gold was first discovered in Australia in the latter part of 1850) Numbers of the people left New Zealand to seek a fortune in the new mines before mentioned. Thomas Strachon and I made up our minds to go to the land of gold and try our luck. It is, or used to be part of my nature to save money, and in the beginning of the year 1852 I left off both smoking and drinking, even wine, and also, as I was boarding myself, left off drinking coffee and tea, and eating meat, and I can testify from experience that I was much healthier than I had ever been before. Well, by the June following, I had saved $67.00 and in the commencement of July I left Mr. Taine, joined a company of six young men, mostly Scotchmen, Thomas's friends. We organized our company, had a cradle made, also a tent and tools. I then went home and stayed until we could obtain a vessel bound for Melbourne, Victoria Colony.

My Father and all my acquaintances tried all they could to keep me from going, and as a last resource my mother got me shut up in a room with the Reverend Jonas Woodward. He talked for at least an hour telling me about people going blind, the pest of flies, outlaws, hot weather, etc. and when he got through he asked, "Well, Fred, what do you think of going now?"

I very politely told him that the more I thought of going the more I liked the idea, and another thing, I would rather go and see for myself, then I would be satisfied and not before. He told my mother I was very obstinate and would go at all hazards. Accordingly, on the 8th of September 1852 I bade my folks farewell. When I bade my father goodbye he said, "Well goodbye, son, the Lord bless you, I shall never see your face again in the flesh." Alas, his words came true for he died on the first of December, about three months after I left home.

Enroute to Utah:

Saturday the 19th. We walked to Salmon Falls. Stayed at Orr's. Next morning early we walked to Brother Cram's near Auburn. Met Clem, John and Brother Shearman. Held meeting in the morning and afternoon. In the evening President Cannon and James Orr arrived and confirmed the news we had previously. Brother Brigham started instantly for Carson valley.

We were sent on a special mission to warn all of the Saints to be ready to gather at a moments warning. Brother Cannon informed us that the troops ordered for Utah were abusing the Handcart Companies, ravaging their women, etc. That 6 or 7 companies had left Utah to meet the Hell Hounds and give them what they justly deserved. My prayer is that the vengeance of the Almighty may speedily overtake them. I cannot express how I feel. My blood runs cold. To tell the truth I hope and pray that if there is any fuss that the Lord will spare my life to gather to Zion, there to be one soul and body to defend the cause of truth. I have hitherto tried to do so and I do not count my life dear to me and if it is necessary I believe I can shoulder my rifle with as good grace as to get up and preach, and with the self same spirit. Well, we started out the same evening and walked to Brother Braim Cram's, five miles. Brother John accompanied us on his way to Yolo County. Clem and Brother Shearman started for Grass Valley. We walked to Miller's, Thomas's, Joseph Outhouse's, Pollick's, etc. Brother Aaron's cousin paid him $104.00. We then walked to Dry Town to Brother Plunkett's, then to father Lunceford's, then to Placerville to Brother George F. Hendry's, Taylor's, Bird's, then to Calama to Sister Plumtree's then back to Salmon Falls. By Friday noon Brother Aaron was there about given out, was sick all day Saturday. Brother Preston arrived Sunday Evening. Brothers Clem and Shearman arrived next day. Brother Aaron went to Yolo with Brother Preston. Brother Shearman went to Union Town, Clem and I went to Michigan bar. Stayed all night at Brother Daney's. He gave us $5.00 and I forgot to state that Brother Hundry gave me $10.00 to buy a rifle. Tuesday came back to Salmon Falls. Wednesday walked to Father Lunceford's. Met Brother Shearman.

Saturday. Brother S. Hendry and I went to Salmon Falls. Bought a span of horses for $300.00 off Brother Orr. Brother Hendry paid cash $250.00 and gave a note for $50.00. I have been helping the Lunceford's fix their wagons. I have been carpenter, painter, in fact, Jack of all Trades. We were to have started today, Sunday, October 9th, but there is so much hanging back. However, if all is well we will start tomorrow.

I do not know what the Pharisees around here will think of us Mormon men. Preaching one day and working another. This is Sunday and I have painted a wagon, in fact, worked hard all day. I have been trying all I can to get the folks off. I have received two letters from Brother Shearman informing me that the Company will not start till the 20th of October. I went over to French Town this evening. Mr. Waters (who has been friendly with us) was very much excited. Said if he could sell out he would go by water and meet us at San Bernardino. Quite a mob of fellows got together here drinking and swore vengeance regarding us young Elders. However, we escaped out at the back door. When we got nearly home I fell into a deep hole, escaped injury.

October 12. At the request of Father Lunceford I commenced a journal of our travels to Great Salt Lake City, via San Bernardino. About 8 o'clock a.m. we started. Our company was composed of 11 persons as follows: Sister Lunceford, her daughters Emeline, Sarah and Siritta, Samuel Lunceford, Edmund S. Barnes, Charles C. Hurst, F. W. Hurst, Marion Outhouse, George F. Hendry and his Indian Boy, William. (I presume an adopted son.) Three wagons, 11 horses and three large dogs. All seemed in high spirits. Father Lunceford stayed behind in order to sell the ranch. Brother Owen Williamson stayed with him for company.

We traveled as far as the wire bridge on the Casameres (?) River, distance from Pleasant Hill, 22 miles. Here we got one of our horses shod, found plenty of wild grasses, paid 1½ cents per pound for hay. Bought $3.75 worth for the horses. Some very suspicious looking men came into camp, however, we loaded up the guns and pistols and set a watch, half a night each. Clem goes till twelve then I will relieve him. The people are very inquisitive. Some ask if we aren't Mormons, some take us for emigrants from the States.

I had almost forgot to state that previous to starting this morning we sang a hymn, "When Shall We Meet Again", then had prayers; asked our Father's blessings on the journey. Some of the folks think it will be unlucky to start on the 12th and more especially as the moon is on the wane. But I feel that when the Lord commands it is most lucky (as they call it) to obey, whether it be new moon or old.

Tuesday, October 13th. There were some fellows hovering around camp all night. We started at sunrise. Had some little trouble getting some of the horses to start. The sun has been perfectly scorching all day. We forded the Makelumen River at Staples Ferry just before sundown and camped nearby Mr. Carpenter's Ranch. He is an apostate but his wife is still a Mormon. She was very glad to see us. She had been confined of a little boy. One of their little boys was very sick. At her request we consecrated a bottle of oil and administered to him by the laying on of hands. Traveled 30 miles today.

Wednesday, October 14th. After a drive of 12 miles we arrived at Stockton City and camped at Mormon Slough. I spent the rest of the day trying to buy a light wagon for Sister Lunceford. We succeeded better than we anticipated. She not only bought a wagon but one span of horses and harness, etc. for $375 out and out. Mother beat him down $15, bought them of a Mr. James Bohanan. He said Mother was hard to trade with, in fact she regularly Jewed him.

We were all so interested in Mother that Brother Hendry's horses strayed off. We all started out to hunt them but in vain. Finally, just as we were about to retire to rest I heard one of the horses winnow. I answered it as well as I could and presently they both came into camp. This raised our spirits again. For my part I felt truly thankful. I have been troubled with gripeing pains all afternoon.

Thursday, October 15th. Clem and I bought some gunpowder and caps, lead, etc. Clem bought a Yauger, or military gun for $11.00. I also bought and fixed false sides to the new wagon. I also wrote to Father Lunceford and Brother Shearman. Addressed the letter to San Juan. Sent both by express. We started about 11 a.m. We crossed the San Joaquin ferry. They charged $1.50 each team. After traveling about 25 miles we camped near a small lake. Saw plenty of wild duck and geese. Samuel shot at one and missed it. We picketed the horses out as there was a little grass.

Friday, October 16th. After a very wearisome day's march through Livermore's Gap (pass ?) we camped in Livermore Valley. We have traveled full 30 miles today. Grass poor. Could get no hay. Marion and I went to a Spanish ranch and tried to get some corn stalks. He wanted to charge us 50¢ for about 1 dozen stalks, doubtless thinking we had no feed and he had a chance to fleece us, however, we had barley. I told him I would give him 50¢ for as much as I could pack, but oh! no he could not think of such a thing, consequently we did not buy. I am very much fatigued for it was my watch last night and I have walked most of the day. We occasionally take a ride which proves a great help.

Saturday, October 17th. The wolves were howling all night. We started at dawn and traveled 5 or 6 miles, then bought some hay and stopped to feed the horses while the sisters washed. Just as we were ready to start Brother Carlow, four sons and one daughter, and Mr. Michael Wahlen (who intends to join the Church) joined us. We traveled on together, our company increased to five wagons, 15 horses, 18 souls. We now begin to make quite a show, in fact we raise quite an excitement in every little village or town we pass through. We reached San Jose Mission about 12 o'clock a.m. Here we met with quite an adventure.

As we were driving up the street we met several Spaniards on horseback. One of them stopped the train and claimed one of the horses Mother Lunceford bought at Stockton. However, we would not give it up till it had been tried by a magistrate. Consequently we traveled on to San Jose City 15 miles, all together, where we arrived at about sunset. Brother George F. Hendry and myself went to Judge Daniels to try the case. The Claimant, Jose Mario Lesena, brought about 40 witnesses to prove the horse. Two were duly Sworn, namely Peter DePote and Jose Castro. The case seemed to be proved quite clear that the said horse belonged to Jose Mario Lesena. We paid half the cost which amounted to ten dollars. The Judge gave us a certificate and signed. Next morning, Sunday, we went to the clerk of the court and put the seal of the court on it which cost another Dollar. I then wrote to Brother John Abbot of Stockton and enclosed the bill of sale and certificate, giving him power of attorney to receive the money. Brother G. F. Hendry signed Mother's name to it, etc.

We then traveled on about 25 miles. The country we have passed through has been very dry, water very scarce. In fact, we had to pay 12½¢ for each span of horses to drink. I have been troubled with a pain in my side most of the day.

We camped on an old ranch and held meeting after supper. I felt like getting the Brothers and Sisters together to talk over a few matters, for some were beginning to harbor hard feelings; and then we had no kind of order, for instance, some would be praying and some singing, talking, etc., and I felt it my duty to talk about it. The Brethren and Sisters all felt well and were willing to do their best in the future.

Monday, October 19th. After traveling about eighteen miles we arrived at San Juan about noon. Camped at the east side of the town at the mouth of a canyon. Plenty of wood and water. Feed is scanty. We have traveled 198 miles since last Monday. On our arrival here we heard various reports concerning a company of twenty wagons being organized at Salina. I went to the office and got a letter I wrote from Stockton addressed to Brother Shearman. We have pushed our horses rather fast thinking or fearing we would be behind, but we soon ascertained that we were first. Some of the company thought I had misunderstood the name of the right place. I pulled a letter out of my pocket to prove that we were right. While doing so, Brother Marion Shelton arrived stating that Brother W. H. Shearman had rode after us, reached here shortly after us, but hearing that we passed through on a brisk trot he despaired of ever catching up. Therefore, put his horse in the stable and walked back five miles to Pathro Ferry (where by the way, we were charged 50¢ each wagon for crossing a small bridge this morning). He also stated that there was a company of six men, namely, W. H. Shearman, William Preston, Marion Shelton, John B. Thatcher, Aaron D. Thatcher, Moses Thatcher, one wagon and six horses, etc. At Brother Shelton's request I saddled a horse and accompanied him back to his company. We met them just west of the town, about two miles from our camp. I tried to pilot them to our camp but owing to my being on horseback and darkness, I missed the right road, however, after some little difficulty we reached camp. We spent the evening very pleasantly talking about the times and reports of the great excitement, etc.

Tuesday, October 20th, San Juan. Remained at camp all day waiting for the company. We have spent the day shooting, fixing up, etc. In the evening we had kind of an organization meeting. Brother John B. Thatcher was chosen Captain, W. H. Shearman - Chaplain, Edward S. Barnes - Sergeant of Guard, F. W. Hurst - Clerk, etc.

Wednesday, October 21st, San Juan. Dispatched Brother M. Shelton to Salinas in search of Brother Boyle. He returned in the evening stating that he heard Brother Boyle was going with Brother Whitlock, etc., in Brother Wandell's Company. However, next morning Thursday, October 22, Elders H. G. Boyle and Ball arrived. We held meeting and reorganized the company. Brother H. G. Boyle was unanimously chosen Captain, E. S. Barnes was chosen Sergeant of the Guard, W. H. Shearman - Chaplain, F. W. Hurst - Clerk, etc. So before the company rolled out about noon, I accompanied Elders Boyle, Ball, and Shearman to Salinas. We rode on horseback. They had previously appointed a meeting at Brother Bennett's. After riding about eight miles we called at Brother Styles. Found him about ready to start for Utah. After resting awhile we rode 8 or 9 miles farther to Brother Bennett's. He had gone to the city. We then rode 2 miles farther to Doetis Whitlock's. After supper we held meeting. Most of the Brethren and Sisters spoke their feelings regarding the journey to the mountains, living their religion, etc. I can't say that I felt very well as it seemed to me that the Saints felt kind of lukewarm, etc.

Friday, October 23rd. Spent considerable time this morning ferrying the horses over the slough (about 400 yards across). About 9 o'clock we started from Brother Whitlock's. Miss W. and Brother Grace accompanied us to show us the nearest trail across the prairie. After riding about four miles we lost Brother Boyle. We waited, hallowed and Brother Shearman fired his revolver but all to no purpose, for they did not notice when we left the road and they galloped past to try to catch us. However, we found the camp about 12 miles from San Juan. The Brethren and Sisters felt very bad indeed because we did not get here sooner and I felt very bad myself, but not on my account, but on theirs. For I do love to see the Saints exercise patience. I know that traveling is calculated to try our tempers. Again Brother Barnes and I went to buy some hay. It was thought that we did not get enough and then I was charged with being careless. Well the Lord knows my heart. I have tried to help the folks all I could ever since I have been released. In fact, Brother Shearman told me that I ought to be looking to my own interests, but I feel it to be my interest to help my brethren. I must own that it makes me feel discouraged when I have done all in my power and then to hear it said or hinted. Well I will not say more on the subject, however, I will try and do my best.

I almost forgot to state Brother John B. Thatcher lent Clem and I $80.00 to get us a fit out. I gave Brother Ball $15.00 and he promised to get $20.00 from Brother Cannon and I would return it when we get to San Bernardino. He, Brother Ball is to get $35.00 worth of clothing such as pants, shirts, etc., also an overcoat, packs, mittens, etc.

DIARY 1857-1858

San Francisco, April 3, 1857:

For some months passed I have neglected my journal, the consequence is that I shall have to write from memory. On the 6th of last October, 1856, I was released from the Sandwich Island Mission. On the 8th of November following, I set sail, in company with my brother Charles C. Hurst, for San Francisco, California. Perhaps it will be necessary to say that we worked our passage before the mast, and when I look back and think of it I can truly say that the hand of the Lord was over us for good, although I realize that it was one of the greatest trials I have had to endure since I have been in the Church. To speak plainly we were in a perfect Hell. The first mate was the meanest scamp I ever saw, however, it did not last long for we arrived in San Francisco on the night of November 23rd. I will leave it to the imagination of the readers how glad we were to meet with the Saints after being with such a set of devils. My joy was so great that it knew no bounds.

When we landed we were worth 37½ cents each. Owing to our clothing being very light and thin, and I must confess rather the worse for wear, we experienced the cold weather pretty severely till Brother John Baptist gave me a good cloth coat. Sister Mowery gave me a pair of shoes, and Brother Everett kindly took us in; in fact all of the Saints we met with behaved very kind. We stayed in the city till the 3rd of December, then I accompanied Brother W. Whipple to the Redwoods. He paid my fare. On the following Sunday Clement followed me.

It was some time before we could get work, in the mean time I helped do chores about the house, that is Brother Eli Whipple's. Bye the bye, his wife is very much opposed to Mormonism. We hired out at several places but could get no pay. In the beginning of March, Clement and I concluded we would work on our own account. We split 730 posts the first four days, then a Brother, newly baptized, came from the city. He having nothing to do we took him with us. I believe his name is Ingelsted, from Norway. Up to the end of March we split 3,000 posts and sold them all for $90. As to what was owing to us, we handed out some and left the rest in the hands of E. Whipple to collect though I hardly expect to get one cent.

On the 3rd of April, four of us walked from the Redwoods up to San Francisco, a distance of 36 miles. We arrived at the office at 3 o'clock p.m. and found all the brethren well. April 3rd I gave Brother George Q. Cannon $10.00 for the paper. I gave Brother Mandle $3.00 etc.

Here I had the pleasure of meeting Brother William Cooke, late from New Zealand. I truly rejoiced to see him once more. We had been separated over two years and a half.

On the 5th of April, Sunday, I attended four meetings, the Saints felt well. I and four others renewed our covenants; namely, Brothers E. Whitlock, Brother Bennett, Charles C. Hurst, and Eli Whipple.

Monday, April 6. We met in the capacity of Conference. For particulars, see the Western Standard, Friday the 10th, Volume 2nd, No. 5. I can truly say I never attended better meetings before. The Spirit of the Lord was in our midst. I will state that it was my intention previous to the conference to accompany Brother W. Cooke to the valley, but the conference thought it best, as the field was large and the laborers few, to send us to the mines to preach under the presidency of Elder Shearman.

The following blessing to the best of my recollection was pronounced by Brother C. W. Wamble:

"Brother Frederick Hurst; We the servants of the Lord lay our hands upon you to give you a blessing. Behold the Lord is well pleased with you, and in as much as you keep humble you shall go forth and the power of God shall rest upon you so that when you get up to speak you shall cause men to quake and tremble. You shall do a good work in California, and in due time you shall go up to Zion bearing your sheaves with you. And you shall go forth to the Lamanites and do a great work among them. You shall live to a good old age, yea you shall see Jesus Christ's second coming with thousands of His Saints with Him in the clouds of fire, etc."

On Monday the 13th I wrote to Mother and Amelia and fixed up ready to start. On Tuesday the 14th, six of us; namely Elders Boyle, Winslow, J. Thatcher, C. C. Hurst, and Geary W. Rogers, late from the Islands, started for Petaluma [north of San Francisco] where we arrived in the evening. Here four of the brethren went on to Buckeye and left Brother Boyle and myself at a Mr. Lotson's. Here we met Brother L. Stillman, nephew to President Brigham Young. He is a wild young man, but I believe good hearted. He informed me that he left Salt Lake City about four or five years ago.

Wednesday, April 15. Elder Boyle and I started this morning for Russian River. We called at Mr. Mayfield's, three miles from Petaluma. We rested a while and then pushed on until we got to Old Uncle Shelton's where we were treated kindly. Spent the evening agreeably reading.

Tuesday, April 16. After breakfast, Brother Boyle and I went to Blacher Valley. Got liberty to preach in the school house. Gave out an appointment for tomorrow night at early candlelight.

Friday, April 17. According to previous appointment we met this evening. The people turned out well. Brother Boyle preached, afterward I bore my testimony, etc. The few Saints here feel well at present.

Saturday, April 18. We walked to the Dry Creek Branch, a distance of thirty miles. Found Brother Dramm well and feeling glad to see us. We spent the evening very agreeably.

Sunday, April 19, Dry Creek. At 10:00 a.m. we met at Brother G. D. Sparke's house. A few of the Saints attended, and to tell the truth they felt dull and sleepy. According to President George Q. Cannon's instructions we tried to find out who were going to Salt Lake and who to San Bernardino. In the evening we went home with Brother George W. Chick and wife, about four miles walk up in the mountains. I never saw such a beautiful variety of wild flowers before. Surely, as the scriptures saith, "This land is blessed above all other lands." The scenery in this Russian River district is really charming.

On Monday the 20th, Brother Chick, Brother Boyle and I went deer hunting. We scared one up but he got away from us. We traveled over hill and dale to no purpose for we returned without any game.

Tuesday we came back to Brother Dramm's and stayed all night.

Wednesday, April 22. We walked up Dry Creek six miles to Mr. Waterman's. He is an apostate, but his wife is a Mormon. We found the old lady and her daughter at home and glad to see us. As soon as we rested we had a swim in the creek nearby. Spent the evening very agreeably listening to Brother Boyle and Mr. Waterman telling bear stories. At their request I sang a hymn in the Hawaiian language.

On Thursday the 23rd Brother Boyle went down the creek, and I went up the creek to tell the people if they wanted to hear anything pertaining to Mormonism we would preach at 3:00 p.m. at Mr. Waterman's house. Brother Dramm brought his wagon full of Saints and according to appointment we met. Three or four gentiles attended, although I walked three miles up the creek and waded the stream 6 times, and Brother Boyle went down the same distance. However, we had a good time. I spoke first followed by Elder Boyle and Elder Dramm. After meeting Celia Waterman was baptized under the hands of Elder H. G. Boyle, after which we confirmed her a member of the Church.

Friday the 24th. Held a kind of Counsel meeting. In the afternoon Brother Marion Shelton, and John Roberts, Brother G. W. Chick and his wife Ann Chick renewed their covenants by baptism. We also baptized and confirmed Francis A. Katerine Roberts.

Saturday the 25th. Brother Dramm harnessed his mules to Brother Sparke's wagon and brought us ten miles on our way to Stang Point. He then paid a Mr. Mills $1.00 to fetch us as far as Santa Rosa, which left us but 10 miles to walk. We arrived at Brother Shelton's at 3:00 p.m.

Sunday the 26th. Brother Boyle instructed me to go over to Brother Boyd Steward, a distance of 6 miles, and get the people together for meeting, and he would go to Petaluma and get his letters and be back by 2 or 3 o'clock. On my way I called at Mr. Higginson's to see a Mrs. Martin, another Apostate. She is President Silas Smith's sister (now in the Sandwich Islands). I had quite a long talk with her. I do not think I would be afraid to prophesy that she will yet be glad to do right and gather up. She felt glad to see me and requested me to call again, etc. etc.

Brother Boyd went with me to stir the folks up to come to meeting. I waited until about 3 and then opened meeting myself and preached on the first principles, faith, etc. Brother Boyle arrived just in time to dismiss the meeting.

Monday the 27th. Walked to Petaluma. On our way we called at Mr. Mayfield's and got dinner from an apostate sister. We got into Petaluma about 3 o'clock p.m. Tried to get up a meeting but did not succeed. We stayed all night at Mr. Lotson's.

Tuesday the 28th. We walked to Napa, a distance of 35 miles. Previous to starting, however, Mrs. Lotson put up some lunch for us and gave us some nuts to eat on the road. The Lord bless them for their kindness. Stopped at Mr. Mount's.

Wednesday the 29th. We made out a quantity of hand bills and stuck them all over town informing the public that we would preach this evening at the courthouse. I might add that through the kindness of the Sheriff, Mr. Sparkes, we were permitted to hold meeting in the above mentioned house About 50 attended. Brother Boyle spoke first, I followed. The people paid good attention.

Thursday, April 30. Before starting this morning Mr. Mount gave us $1.00 each, besides lunch to eat on the road, for when we started we intended to walk to Buckeye, a distance of forty miles, but Brother Boyle thought it would not be wisdom. We walked as far as Wilson's, 20 miles. Stayed all night.

Next morning, Friday May 1st. We walked to the Kutah River, 14 miles, where we met John and Moses Thatcher with horses. After bathing we mounted and rode the rest of the way. Just before we reached our destination we had a race, and my saddle, not being girded on tight, slipped over on one side, consequently I fell off, or rather let myself down. I escaped unhurt. We found the brethren and sisters all well and glad to see us. It was not long, in spite of my bashfulness before I felt quite at home. In the afternoon Brothers Cannon, Sherman, Steward, Higgins, and others arrived. We truly rejoiced together. On Saturday we held three meetings, received very much valuable instructions from Brother Cannon and others.

The weather is very warm. The country is parched up for want of rain. This season is so dry it is thought that most of the grain in this district will fail.

Monday, May 3rd. Buckeye Branch held three meetings, one a good testimony meeting. The evening meeting was kept up until half past 12 o'clock. The Saints feel better than I have witnessed for some time past. I really feel to love the Saints at Buckeye, and elsewhere, and may the Lord bless them. Most of the Saints here are anxious to gather up to Zion.

Monday, May 4th. Twelve of us rode down to Sacramento City, through the kindness of Brothers Preston and Joseph Thatcher. In the afternoon President Cannon

accompanied with the Elder from Oregon and Brother Sherman started for San Francisco. Brother Clem and I stayed all night with Brother Joseph Thatcher at a boarding house. He paid for our board and lodging. We then walked to Alder Creek, a distance of 20 miles. Went round amongst the people, told them who and what we were. Captain Hammond said he would give us a room and lights. He immediately set to work with his man, carried seats to the house, cleaned out nicely, furnished me with paper, pen and ink, etc.

I wrote out some notices. About sixty attended, paid good attention till I had done. Clem bore his testimony. Then a white headed old sinner, formerly a Methodist Preacher got up and said he wanted to ask a few questions. He asked me if I knew what the meaning of repentance was, and at what time the Kingdom of God was to be established. He then said that I had pretended to preach Mormonism but I had not done it. He said he knew more about Joseph Smith and Mormonism than I did. Instead of me teaching them he could teach me, and then began telling what a good man he was. He did not swear or lie except in a joke to make fun, and I got up and told them that we understood repentance to simply mean a man turning away from his sins, etc., and forsaking them. And as to the Kingdom of God, if they would read their bibles they would see plainly many prophesies pertaining to the last days. For instance, Daniel, Isaiah, etc. Finally one got talking and another laughing, some shouting, some for us and the more part against us. The meeting broke up in disorder. However before leaving the house the old man said he would send twenty men up into the mountains to cut poles to fence in the cattle, or else (we were so green) the cattle would by mistake eat us up.

Wednesday, May 6th. Walked to Salmon Falls, 12 miles, put up at Brother Orr's hotel. Found them all well. After dinner we went to see Sister Allred. Found her little daughter sick almost to death. At her request we administered to her in the name of the Lord Jesus, etc. I feel to pray our Heavenly Father to bless and heal the child. Sister Allred is a good woman and I feel that the Lord will have compassion on her and grant her the desires of her heart in righteousness, Amen.

Thursday, May 7th, Salmon Falls. We succeeded in getting the schoolhouse to preach in, accordingly to that effect we stuck notices up all over the place. About 30 persons attended. Clem spoke first and preached his maiden sermon, after which I spoke on the Kingdom of God. The people paid good attention. Sister Allred's child is still very sick. We have administered to it twice today. Every time we lay hands on it, it gets better but there are so many unbelieving spirits around here saying: "Oh dear, the poor dear child will surely die." The Doctor has given it up, and there is no hope and there is no hope, etc. I felt like telling them to all go out of the house and not come back again till the child was well. There is a principle in this that has just come to my mind. On a certain occasion Jesus Christ, when he was sent for first of all put them out of the room and then he healed the child. I wrote to Elder W. Cooke.

Friday, May 8th, Pleasant Hill. The Sisters Orr washed our shirts yesterday, and we waited till they were ironed. We then bade them farewell. Called at Sister Allred's. Administered again to the child. I am happy to say that it looks much better this morning. I have felt like humbling myself before the Lord. All the time I felt like telling Mr. and Sister Allred the Lord would have pity on them in as much as they would obey his commandments. We bade them farewell and started for Brother Lunceford's where we arrived at about 2 o'clock.

Found them all well and glad to see us. To tell the truth I feel quite at home. We had not been here long before Sister Johnston (an English sister) came to see us. She really felt overjoyed. We had quite a comfortable chat. In the evening we went down to Brother Raihles. He is gone to town. Saw Sister Raihles, formerly Miss Lunceford. At her request we laid hands on her little boy (just two weeks old) who is quite sick.

Saturday, May 9th, at Pleasant Hill. We went two miles to French Town. Got liberty to preach in the Schoolhouse. Appointed a meeting tomorrow morning at half past ten a.m. I wrote out some notices to that effect and stuck them up here and there from Shingle Springs to French Creek. The weather is cooler.

Sunday, May 10th, Pleasant Hill. We have held three meetings today; one at French Creek according to appointment, one at Pleasant Hill and in the evening at Pleasant Grove. The Saints here feel well as a general thing. I feel to rejoice that the Lord has been with us and blessed us with His Spirit. To Him be the glory, Amen.

Monday. It rained this morning. We have been assisting Brother Raihles fix his wagon as they are going to start for San Bernardino next Thursday. Brother and Sister Johnston will accompany them, they will number, counting children and all, eight persons. I wrote to Brother Aaron Thatcher and Elder Boyle in the evening. I baptized and confirmed Brother William Johnston. He is one of the Battalion boys. He got up in meeting last night and confessed his faults and expressed a desire to live his religion. I will observe that I spoke very pointedly on renewing our covenants, etc. Clem and I laid hands on Sister Lunceford. She is better.

More from his journal about a trip to Australia:

We had a very rough passage, head winds nearly all the way. The vessel, The Australian, just new from England, was a first rate sea boat, Clipper built. One evening we had the wind off our quarter, every stitch of canvas was set. The First Mate told the captain he could see a squall coming, but he thought it would not reach us. But before they had time to shorten sail the squall took us, threw the vessel over on her beam; the bulwarks were entirely under water. A great excitement prevailed, the Captain gave orders through his speaking trumpet to let everything go. As soon as this was done she righted much to the astonishment of everybody. At the time this happened we were just off the mouth of Cook's Straight, the wind increased to hurricane and we were soon driving before it under a fair topmast stay sail. This storm blew us about four hundred and fifty miles back, delayed us a week. However, after fourteen days passage we anchored at Wellington Harbor.

The first person I met was the Reverend Jonas Woodward. He shook me very cordially by the hand, informed me that my mother and Alfred had sold our farm, and mother was keeping a boarding house up Willis Street. A short walk took me home. I cannot describe the scene, my sister, Amelia, hung around my neck and cried with joy. They all seemed really glad to see me once more. However I was not contented, before I had been home a week I wished myself back at the mines. It had been my intention to settle down in New Zealand if they had not sold our place in Karari.

Shortly after I got home I went sawing with Thomas Holder. We made twenty dollars a week easy, for timber was worth five dollars per thousand feet.

Much against the entreaties of my mother and sisters and my friends I engaged passage for both Alfred and Clement, my youngest brother, and on the 1st of October, 1853 we set sail for Melbourne, Victoria Colony, Australia, in the Penyard Park. She proved a very leaky vessel, in fact, before we arrived in port we had to pump night and day incessantly.

About the end of October we arrived in Hobson's Bay. We stayed one night at the home where I found Mr. Francis Evans, whom I had known in New Zealand. He was a very zealous Methodist. He introduced a Mr. Frost to us, and as he said he was going to Geelory, I asked him if he would take a parcel for Mr. Charles Webb, that I had brought from Wellington. He replied, "Yes I will, with pleasure." However, before he left he told Mr. Evans to give us some good advice when we got up in the mines. As we determined to go right on, Mr. Evans said he would like us to live in, and take care of, his cabin until he came up which would not be for a week or two. We started on November 1st, arriving on Monday evening, November 5th, deciding to rest awhile in order to get over the effects of our long and weary march.

On the following Sunday while at dinner, a gentleman whom I judged to be a Methodist preacher (for I knew Mr. Evans was a Methodist before I went home last June) came in accompanied by a number of others and informed us they were going to hold meeting. I asked the preacher if he would take a cup of coffee, with this commenced a conversation. As soon as the things were cleared off the table, Thomas Holder, who had accompanied us from New Zealand, Clement and I started to go prospecting, but the preacher came out and said we had better come in for he would do us no harm. I thought it would look rather disrespectful if we went away, so concluded to stay. Well, shortly afterward the meeting commenced. I must confess I was struck at the peculiarity of the hymns. The hymn books were in pamphlet form and headed "Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints". I thought to myself, the Methodists are getting up. If I was astonished at the hymns and tunes, I was still more so at the prayer that was offered up by the preacher. He prayed to the Lord to bless the Prophet, Seer and Revelator, Brigham Young, his councilors, the twelve Apostles and others. I was full of wonder and curiosity. I never had such feelings before in my life. I asked myself the question, "Who can Brigham Young be?" and again, "Who can the twelve apostles be?" It would be impossible for me to tell the hundredth part of what passed through my mind.

After singing another hymn the preacher read a passage from the Book of Mormon. "What book can that be?" thought I to myself. I would very much like to read it for I had never heard that there was such a book before. Well, to proceed, the preacher also read part of the 15th chapter of St. Mark's Gospel, and then preached Faith, Repentance, Baptism for the remission of sins, also the gift of the Holy Ghost by the imposition of hands. Talked about Joseph Smith, gave us a brief history of the Church, the persecutions, etc. I cannot describe my feelings. I could not help paying deep attention, yea, I felt inspired, my heart was drawn toward the speaker, I watched for every word for it seemed good to my soul. The speaker finished his discourse by relating to us part of his history, how he passed through Great Salt Lake City (not then a Mormon) left his family there among the Mormons, and since he left most of his family had joined the Church.

The speaker, in search of gold, first in California, then came on to Australia for the same purpose, and on his arrival in Sidney he was baptized, ordained the same day and sent on a mission. That he had not long arrived, had never preached before in his life, felt his weakness, but like the Apostles of old, he depended entirely on the Holy Ghost for assistance. However, I thought it was the most sensible and reasonable sermon I ever heard.

After meeting was over the preacher (or Mormon Elder) walked across the room, laid his hands upon my shoulders and said, looking me earnestly in the face at the same time, "Young Man, if you will obey the requirements of the Gospel it will not only be the means of saving you, but also your family and friends in the Kingdom of God."

I asked, "What Gospel?" I did not want to be in a hurry.

He replied, "Don't you believe what I have been preaching about?"

I answered, "Yes, I certainly believe for it is in accordance with the teachings contained in the Bible, and I have been taught to believe it to be the word of God." I then asked him if he would loan me a Book of Mormon. He not only loaned it to me, but also "The Voice of Warning", which he assured me was very interesting. I almost forgot to state that before the meeting was over several of the Mormons stood up and bore testimony to the truthfulness of Mormonism.

Well, after the congregation were all dismissed and gone away, Alfred commenced a long tirade against the Mormons. Said if he had known he would not have stayed to meeting, expressed his hopes that we would never go again for they were a very dangerous set of people, they practiced plurality of wives, a most abominable doctrine. I wondered where he got his information for I had never heard there was such a people on earth and I had traveled more than he had, however, I told him I believed Mormonism so far, and I was going to investigate it and know for myself. He called the Book of Mormon trash, etc. He said he could take the New Testament and confound the whole sect. The next day the Mormon Elder, Elder William Cooke, came down to see us. I told him what my brother had said before his face; about the plurality of wives etc. He replied: "It is true, we as a people do practice the doctrine, but it is no worse for us to practice it now than it was for the ancients." Suffice to say, he explained everything to my satisfaction. Oh! Bye the bye, a word in regard to Alfred confounding the whole sect. Elder Cooke told him if he had the truth and knew that the Mormons were wrong it was his duty to prove it, adding that the next meeting they would let Alfred have a chance to prove all he could, however, Alfred backed out. I rather guess he was afraid to try it for the Mormons, according to his own acknowledgment, were great scriptorians.

Elder Cooke informed us that Mr. Evans had joined the Church and that he held the Aaronic Priesthood.

We worked very hard but got very little gold. Alfred began to get disheartened and talked of going home. Brother Evans and family arrived sometime during the following week. After he came we had Mormonism from morning till night, and I might say from night till morning. Alfred could get no peace, and finally after staying three weeks he made up his mind to go home to New Zealand. He took what little gold and cash we had, left us half a loaf of bread and about two ounces of arrowroot. I lay in bed with the Cholera Morbus. Clement also complained, and Thomas declared he could not work on account of a pain in his stomach. Alfred bade us goodbye and I have never seen his face since; it is now nearly five years ago. But to return to our story, we didn't quite starve for before the week was up we succeeded in getting 2 or 3 ounces of gold.

We attended every Mormon meeting and most every evening we went and heard them sing. I got real fond of their company, though the good Christians called us fools, said we were deluded. I was ready to be baptized from the first but Thomas Holder wanted me to wait for him. Finally I told him I was not going to wait longer, if he could not make up his mind I could not help it. He answered: "Well I do wish you would try and see what it is like, adding that he was afraid it was not true. On Sunday, January 12, 1854, we went over to Maiden Flat to meeting. During the services I had a second attack of the Cholera Morbus, (the third attack generally proves fatal) and as the Mormons had been preaching about the gift of healing, I determined to be baptized. I concluded if I was healed it would be a testimony to me of the truth of Mormonism. Accordingly on the way home after the meeting I spoke to Elder Cooke about it and to my astonishment Clement offered himself as a candidate for baptism also. We were both baptized and confirmed members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints the same evening in a place called The Sheep Wash, after which we held meeting. I never had a lighter heart in my life, indeed, I might say I never knew what joy was till I became a Mormon. It appeared to me that I had been blind and had suddenly received my sight. My mind was enlightened, everything seemed perfectly plain and natural, and I was not ashamed to bear testimony to the truth, for the Spirit of God bore witness with my spirit that the Kingdom of God was once more established on the earth with all its power and authority, even the Holy Priesthood.

The next Saturday, Thomas Holder was baptized, seeing we liked it so well. Most of our former (pretended) friends and companions shunned our company. It took most of our time, even when we might have been at work, to defend the principles of Mormonism. As time flew I felt a desire to increase in knowledge and understanding; I shall never forget the first time I got up in meeting to bear my testimony. I scarcely knew whether I was on foot or on horseback. I do not believe that Belshazzer's knees knocked together more than mine did, but this feeling gradually wore off, that is to a certain extent, for even now when called upon to speak in public I commence trembling.

After we had been in the Church six or eight weeks, Clement and I wrote home on the first principles of the Gospel, we had an idea that as soon as they heard the truth that they would obey it at the first opportunity. However, we were dreadfully mistaken. For in the due course of time, I believe in the month of June, we received letters from home, from mother and our two sisters, (shall I record it) full of abuse toward the Prophet Joseph Smith and the church in general. They even went so far as to say they were ashamed to own us any longer as members of the family. The letter contained no arguments but were filled with false assertions. My heart was so sore I could not forbear shedding tears. I then began to realize that I had to round up my shoulders, though forsaken by my own dear mother, brothers, and sisters, and obey all the commandments of God as far and as fast as they were made known to me. To tell the truth, after this I began to realize that all those who obeyed the requirement of the Gospel were nearer and dearer to me than all former friends or relatives. Well, we wrote home repeatedly but received no answer to our letters, although I stated in them if they would prove from the Bible that the doctrine of even Polygamy was unscriptural I would renounce Mormonism.

More from his journal about the Pacific Islands:

About the 15th of September, 1854, we met in the capacity of a Conference at Castlemaine. Brother Charles Hardy and I were ordained to preach in the Bendigo Gold Mines and build up the saints scattered over the country. Brother Cook raised up quite a large branch in the Golden Gully and Bendigo. Brother Charles Hardy was appointed President of said Branch. I held the office of Priest. Brother W. Cooke was called to go to New Zealand. It was a sore trial for me to part with him; poor Clement cried and sobbed as if his heart would break. I felt as if I had bade farewell to the only friend I ever had. We parted not knowing when or where we would meet again.

Brother Hardy instead of starting on his Mission with me, went down to Melbourne, trading in hogs and chickens; consequently, I had to start off alone. It was thought best for Clement to stay at Castlemaine and work with brothers MacKnight, William, Wilford, Bird, and others. As I stated before I started alone and after a lonely, weary march of thirty miles I arrived at Golden Gully Bendigo.

The Brothers and Sisters were all very glad to see me, they inquired where Brother Hardy was. I told them that he had business to attend to in Melbourne at present, but I expected to see him in the course of a few weeks. I felt determined to do my best though I had never preached before. While at conference we were counseled to get the Saints together Sunday and Wednesday evenings. Wednesday evenings were to be devoted to prayer or social meetings. Well, the first time I got the Saints together I opened the meeting with prayer, but could not muster up courage enough to address the saints, consequently I read a portion of the Millennial Star, and as I did not speak myself I felt ashamed to call upon anyone else. I felt real miserable for I felt I was not doing my duty. Sunday came and we had quite a congregation, but I felt worse than I did on the Wednesday evening previous although I had prayed and fasted. The very thought of preaching made me loath the sight of food, it took away my appetite entirely.

Before going to meeting I would resolve in my own mind to try and speak, but as soon as the second hymn was sung I would be seized with a trembling fit, all ideas would flee from my mind and I would have to take up the Star or some other book and read. However, on Wednesday while at work I got in conversation with a man and preached to him about the Gospel. While talking with him I told him if he would come up to meeting that evening he would hear an Elder preach on the first principles of the Gospel. He promised me he would come. After he had left me I began to reflect on what I had told him respecting the meeting. I turned sick at the idea. I could not eat my supper but I washed myself and went down hoping the man would not be there, but all my hopes were turned to slopes, for there the man sat as large as life. I cannot describe my feelings at this time, but after saluting him I went into the woods alone and besought the Lord to have compassion and assist me. After doing so I felt relieved and returned. We opened the meeting and in spite of all hell I arose to my feet, opened to the 3rd chapter of St. John's Gospel, and after reading a few verses my tongue was loosened and before I was aware of it I was preaching. I never have spoken more freely in my life, and it was a strong testimony to me of the truth of Mormonism, and I felt thankful beyond measure and with my whole heart I praised my maker. The Brethren and sisters were very much astonished but not more so than myself. After this I was not troubled very much.

I strove to improve my mind day after day both by searching the scriptures and by reading Mormon Books. I labored with all diligence till Brother Hardy arrived near two months after Conference. He returned on a Sunday at the close of our morning meeting with a wagon load of hogs and chickens. He refused to hold meeting in the afternoon and evening, saying he was too busy. I soon ascertained he had lost the spirit of his mission and thought more of dollars and cents than of preaching or performing his duties as a missionary. It was in vain I talked and pleaded with him. He said he was the head and had a right to do as he liked.

We did not hold meeting until the following Wednesday evening, and then he refused but told me if I wanted to hold meeting I had that right so go ahead. I went, first prevailing upon him to accompany me. I spoke on the divine authority of Joseph Smith. He afterwards got up and made a few remarks. I believe we could have done a good work if we had been united, but when the head is wrong, the whole body is sick, (I speak from bitter experiences). The saints became careless and some took to drinking again, the devil got into the branch. Some of the brothers and sisters went off to new diggings, in fact, Brother Hardy took it into his head to go also and open a butcher shop down by the seventh White Hill. I tried to persuade him not to go but he said the people in Golden Gully had had preaching enough, and besides he said, he was counseled to open up new fields.

Accordingly, the following week we moved down, built a shop or bowery and bought some sheep ready dressed and a large quantity of beer and lemonade, etc. The weather was extremely hot and times exceedingly dull, consequently very few customers. By sundown the meat began to turn green, and smell very disagreeable, besides being covered with not a few maggots. Fortunately after dark a man came and I got him to take the whole lot off our hands for considerable less than half cost. I can assure the reader I was glad to get that. That evening I told Brother Hardy he might continue alone in the business for I was not willing to throw what little money away that I had, and furthermore, as he did not hold meetings or even tell what his business was for fear it would hinder him in making money I had made up my mind to go back to Golden Gully. When he found I was determined he decided to go also. Accordingly we moved back.

Altho' we had been absent for the short period of one week we found the branch in great confusion. After seeing the state of affairs, I retired to a secret spot and prayed that the Lord would pardon us and that the spirit of our mission might rest upon us again.

We called the Saints together again and at Elder Hardy's request I addressed them. The Spirit of the Lord rested upon me in a marvelous manner. I tried to get the Saints to understand the condition they were in. Indeed I talked exceedingly plain. I told them that we were not sent among them to tickle their ears with fine language, but to preach the Gospel of Jesus, in simpleness and plainness. Brother Hardy then addressed them briefly but to the point. As a general thing the Saints expressed their sorrow for what they had done and promised to do better. I wrote to President Burr Frost, and MacKnight giving them a faithful report of the branch and our movements, and in a few days Elder Wilford paid us a visit, said I had done perfectly right, but told Elder Hardy that he had lost the spirit of his mission and unless he repented of the course he was pursuing it would finally lead him to apostasy. He stayed a few days and then left, and sent President James MacKnight. He talked in the same spirit that Elder Wilford had.

Shortly after he left us, I started alone, according to council, for the Anaco mines about one hundred seventy-five miles distance. I passed through Castlemaine, saw Clement. He had made about two hundred dollars since September, not counting what he had given the mission, which amounted to considerable. I was truly glad to see him; I stayed several days.

On Sunday I was called on to speak in the chapel to quite a large congregation; the first time I ever spoke in a pulpit. I must digress a little in order to explain how the brethren had obtained a chapel to preach in. One fine warm day about noon, a gentleman called at the tent for subscriptions toward defraying the expenses of the Church of Christ. Elder Frost, who was then present asked him what he believed in, also his name. He replied: "My name is John Baptist, I was born in Venice in the North of Austria, Gentlemen. I cannot speak very good English, as you will readily perceive, but I believe the Bible to be the word of God." Brother Frost told him that he was in search of the truth and would like to have him talk some. Mr. Baptist then told them he had been brought up a Roman Catholic from his youth but he saw so much error in it he concluded to join the Church of England, thinking they might be right. But he got sick of them and joined the Methodists and was advocating their principles.

After he had talked a while Brother Frost told him that most, or all, of the men in the tent were preachers, and then went on at some length explaining scriptures and the organization of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Baptism, etc.

Mr. Baptist got in quite an ecstasy and called out: "I will become baby, I will become baby, I want to be baptized."

Brother Frost told him not to be in a hurry. He had better think about the matter for a while.

"No, no, no," he replied, "I want to be baptized." So he was baptized, straight away after which he requested Elders Frost and MacKnight to accompany him home.

He took them downtown (Castlemaine) and showed them a nice chapel about 60 by 30 or 40 feet, wooden frame work covered with the best of material, also well supplied with good seats, chandeliers, and a pulpit. "There," said he, "Beloved Brethren, you shall have that to preach in. It is my own property, I have built it with my own hands and at my own expense. I have had one end of the meeting house partitioned off to live in." He also informed them that he had been in the habit of holding meeting every Sunday, etc.

But to return to my subject again -- I took for my text the following from Timothy: "Ever learning and never coming to a knowledge of the truth" and spoke with considerable freedom. I found quite a different spirit among the saints at Castlemaine. They all seemed to be truly sincere in living their religion.

The following day I left for, and arrived at, diggings 35 miles from Castlemaine, stayed at Brother and Sister West's. Preached by moonlight on the subject of "The Restoration of the Gospel".

The next day I passed Daisy Hill; lost my way between Daisy Hill and Anaco mines. The hot winds in addition to the heat of the sun made the heat almost unbearable. I searched in vain for water, my tongue swelled, my mouth and throat parched and burning. In fact it seemed an unquenchable fire burned through my whole system. I suffered agony. At last I found a road going due west and followed it. I was fearful of losing my reason. This is all I can remember until I came to myself and to my astonishment found I was lying in the road, I presume I must have traveled along till I actually fainted. However, when I came to, I looked around and found I was in some kind of an old road in an open plain. It seemed as if I had wandered into some place uninhabited either by man or beast for I could see neither. My face, especially around my mouth was covered with foam or lather. I have not the least doubt that if I had been found near some civilized city or town I would have been a fit subject for a Lunatic Asylum.

While trying to collect my thoughts a voice said distinctly: "If you are faithful you shall yet see Zion of the last days." I cannot describe how I felt. The voice pierced through my whole system. I started, looked around but saw nothing save the barren waste stretched as far as the eye could see. I knelt down and prayed. I seemed to realize I was not alone, but that my guarding angel was near me to cheer and comfort and strengthen me. I arose from my knees greatly strengthened and refreshed. I walked rapidly for several miles when to my surprise and delight I saw five large Australian Ostriches. As soon as they saw me they started off at race horse speed. I was within one hundred yards of them before they discovered me. They were in a little hollow, probably trying to shelter themselves from the scorching winds.

I had not proceeded much farther when two mounted policemen rode up, stated they were out hunting. On inquiry I learned I was at least ten miles from the main road to Anaco, also eight or ten miles from the nearest water. They directed me to keep to the road I was then traveling till I got to the river, then turn to the left and follow it up, but that means I could not miss my way.

After receiving the above information I redoubled my efforts and arrived at the bank of a large water hole at about sundown. The water was covered with green slime and when I skimmed that off the water was quite thick and full of bloodsuckers and beecher frogs. In fact, every kind of slicky, slimy reptiles, as Patty said in respect to the egg. It was meat and drink too, but bad as it was I was truly thankful for it. I feared to commence, for many have lost their lives through drinking immoderately when overheated. At last I ventured to the edge of the water more like a frightened Kitten than anything I can think of. First I washed my face, then washed my mouth out. The water was as warm as the atmosphere. I then drank a few mouthfuls and lay down, but Oh! how I suffered; as I before stated, a fire seemed to consume the very marrow in my bones. I rested until the shades of evening warned me to proceed on my journey. The more water I drank the more I wanted.

At last, after walking four or five miles up what in Winter might be a river, I arrived at Brother Evan's house or tent. He was not at home, but was working at Daisy Hill. However, Sister Evans received me very kindly.

The next day I worked with Brother Symons. In the evening I preached in a frame chapel covered with canvas that was built by Brother Evans. We experienced a very heavy thunderstorm while there. I stayed for two or three days and then returned to Bendigo. Shortly after I returned we received instructions to move to Castlemaine. We all moved about the end of December, 1854. I also received instructions to go to work and get a fit out, and as Brother Baptist was in need of a partner I went to work with him on New Year's Day. We made an ounce of gold the first day, and did exceedingly well generally, clearing over one thousand dollars ($1,000) the first six weeks.

About the first of April we met in conference capacity. We paid Tithing and Subscription to a considerable amount, also paid our passage money to Brother Frost. Clement paid £900 before my face.

About the 15th of April, 1855 we started for Melbourne, that is most of the branch did. Brother Spencer was left in charge of the rest, with Brother Alonzo Colton, who had just been baptized and ordained, to assist him. On the 25th of April we weighed anchor and started for San Pedro. After being out five weeks we put into Tahiti, one of the Society Islands. We found about three hundred native Saints. Elder Hawkins was in charge. We made them a large feast on board, after which some of them spoke their feelings, Brother Hawkins acting as interpreter. They brought us quantities of fruit of all kinds. They also made us a feast about three miles in the country. After lying in port about six days we put to sea again.

I almost forgot to state that Brother Hardy was cut off from the Church just before we got into Tahiti.

Well, after five weeks of indescribable kind of times we put in in distress at the Sandwich Islands, the vessel so leaky she could hardly swim.

More about his voyage to Hawaii:

Accordingly after a voyage of 11 weeks from Australia we arrived in port at Honolulu the 5th of July, 1855. I worked for two days discharging the ships ballast at $1.00 per day. I am sorry to say there is a great deal of hard feelings against Elder Frost, the President of our company.

We put to sea again on the 12th July, supposing the vessel had been sufficiently repaired. We left some of our passengers behind. They stayed to make a little more money before going to Zion. We had a fair fine wind until we were clear of the land, then we lay eight days in a calm expecting the wind to blow again. Then one night it began, and increased against our fore quarters. From sunset until midnight it became almost a hurricane. This strained at the vessel until she leaked both sides of her worse than before. They kept the pumps working all night. At last one of them broke, but they kept one of them giving the water, 13 inches per hour. It was then concluded that the vessel was unseaworthy. Accordingly we put back to Honolulu.

After looking for work for some time, without success, President Lewis asked me to look after his shop, and keep the books, while he was attending conference. I stayed here till the 31st of July, then I was out of employment again. In the meantime Clement got a situation at the Merchant's Exchange.

Owing to various circumstances, and want of funds, the vessel could not be repaired. Accordingly she was sold to pay expenses. She brought (1150 dollars) eleven hundred fifty dollars only.

There was considerable ill feelings among the saints against Elder Frost, and many were in hard circumstances, consequently, a meeting was called by President Lewis to inquire into their grievances. Each Brother was allowed to state his grievance. There was some difficulty in keeping some of the brethren. A great many spoke their feelings. The meeting was kept up until a late hour of the night. I could not help seeing one great fault in the saints -- that is some of them -- they could see, or fancied they saw faults in others, but could not see them in themselves. The meeting was closed by each one forgiving each other everything that was said, and go on and serve the Lord and love each other. Brother Lewis and others made some very appropriate remarks.

I got a small job painting, but it only lasted two days for which I got four dollars. Whether I had work or not I always found a comfortable home at Brother Lewis's house.

I am sorry to say the saints had to put up with very poor provisions, some of them tried to get up a subscription, but they only succeeded in getting forty dollars, the people in Honolulu not being favorable to the Mormons.

I had the pleasure of seeing Elders George Spears and Thurston on their way to Kauai where they had been appointed to labor. I would say that President Lewis resigned his presidency at conference. Brother Silas Smith took his place, Brother John T. Caine, first counselor, Brother S. S. Smith, second counselor. Brother Caine presided over the Oahu Conference. About thirty of the Saints left for San Francisco on the 13th of August, Elder Woodbury accompanying them.

I also had the pleasure of seeing President Silas Smith as he had come down to Oahu to take a tour around the Island. The day the saints left he tapped me on the shoulder and said he wanted me to go among the natives to learn the language. I thought he was joking so took no notice, but I was not going to get off so easy. He invited me to go to the mission house that evening, and then I found that he was serious. However we were to think it over. He asked me how I would like to go on a mission among the natives. Well I told him, if he asked me to go I would do so, but under the circumstances I was then in I did not feel like taking a mission. But I wanted to do the will of the Lord at all times and if he had work for me to do I would do it with pleasure. Accordingly I was ordained an Elder on the 16th of August 1855. The following Elders ordained me: President Silas Smith, Elders John T. Caine, W. W. Cluff, John A. West; Brother Caine was mouth. The following are to the best of my recollection some of the blessings sealed upon my head:

"Brother Frederic W. Hurst, we lay our hands on you at this time to ordain you to the Melchizedek Priesthood, and we say unto you, be faithful and you shall be blessed in getting the language of this people. You will be the means of doing a deal of good on these Islands. The Lord is pleased with you, and we say unto you, in the name of Jesus Christ, you shall be blessed in whatever you put your hand to do. You shall be blessed with health and strength. And we say unto you, put your trust in the Lord, and let no trouble prey upon your mind, and we pray our Father in Heaven that you may be filled with the spirit of your mission. And we say you shall be blessed with the gift of prophesy, vision, revelations to comfort you, to do the will of the Lord. We seal these blessings upon you in the name of His Son, Jesus Christ, Amen."

As Elder Hammond was going to Lahaina in a few days, I was told to stay until he went there, then I would accompany him that far, and then take a boat from there to Molakai to learn the language and to assist Elder Bell. I therefore, immediately set to work getting ready. I wanted a great many things, and didn't have any money. Besides I needed three dollars to pay my passage to Molakai. I therefore sold one pair of boots for four dollars, also a big overcoat for four dollars. My brother, Clement, gave me all he had, three or four dollars. However, I managed to get a small fit out and pay my way excepting board at Brother Lewis's which made me feel very bad at the time, though I could not help it. I gave him four dollars, all I had except enough to pay my way to my field of labor. He said I was not to think about it for I was perfectly welcome. What made me feel worse about it was that I knew he was going to the valleys shortly and needed all of the money he could get.

On the 21st of August I had a very severe attack of Baho fever, very prevalent among newcomers. This soon forced me to my bed. I lost my appetite completely, in fact I could not stand the sight of food. I was soon so weak I could scarcely walk about the house. The Brethren were very kind to me. Sister Dinah, who was housekeeping for Brother Lewis, was as good as a mother to me, the only thing I could eat was a little poi and a few oranges. On the 27th of August, Monday evening, still being scarcely able to walk without assistance, I bade adieu to the Brethren and Sisters and started for Lahaina, in company with President Silas Smith and Elder Hammond in the schooner Maui. President Smith and I slept all night on deck amongst the Kanakas (natives). She had about fifty or sixty Kanaka passengers and fifteen or sixteen whites on board. Wednesday morning early we passed close by Molakai and got within about nine miles of Lahaina and then the wind dropped and we lay becalmed all day. The day was exceedingly hot which made it very unpleasant. At about seven in the evening we paid fifty cents each to go ashore rather than staying longer. We arrived at Lahaina about ten o'clock at night.

We went to Brother Hammond's place and found a native Brother and Sister. After eating a slight supper of poi and fish, I rolled myself up in a blanket and laid down on the floor. Mosquitoes troubled me very much that night. I had very little sleep, they kept up a continual buzzing, however, the morning came at last.

After breakfast of fish and poi we went down to see about Brother Hammond's boat as he wanted to go to Lanai to bring his wife and family over here. He got the boat and asked some of the native brethren to row him over. He started in company with President Smith. This left me alone, nobody to speak to except the Kanakas, and when I did they could not understand me. I amused myself by sometimes playing the flute and reading an old pile of Deseret News. I thus passed the time away till about one o'clock.

Saturday, the 1st of September, one of the Brethren got me a boat to go to Molakai; as I was a Mormon Missionary I only had to pay a quarter (25¢) for my passage over. We started about two o'clock. As soon as we began to get out into the Channel we found the wind was blowing very strong, and a very heavy sea. They kept the boat close to the wind which caused the water to fly from stem to stern, it was not long till we were drenched to the skin. The distance across is about eighteen miles, and we got over about five o'clock. I then left my trunk in a boatman's charge and started for Waialua, the place where I was told Brother Bell was stopping, a distance of ten miles. I thought the boatman told me it was only five miles and I could easily walk it before dark.

I started although I was still very weak for I had not yet entirely recovered from the effects of the fever, and it was with extreme difficulty I reached Kiliula about eight o'clock. Here I happened to meet a young kanaka brother who could talk a little English. He informed me that Brother Bell stayed at Kiliula, but at present was thirty miles off at Kanaluna. However he took me down to the house where Brother Bell stopped and I was soon at home here for they received me very kindly.

I soon had a number of Saints around me asking all sorts of questions. I thought I would not lose any time so I commenced to learn the language immediately, much to their amusement at my blunders.

I had plenty of fish and poi to eat but I had very little appetite, besides I was very much fatigued, having walked eight miles, which was very hard on me being so weak. But I enjoyed good spirits and felt to put my trust in the Lord at all times. At a late hour I laid me down to rest for the night and not a wrap to cover me. I arose about seven o'clock much refreshed on Sunday Morning. It was a beautiful day, only a little warm, but the way the house is situated close to the seashore it made it pleasant.

Elder Ke Alaho was lord of the house. I found one Brother sick, his name was Halelo. They told me it was an old disease and that he had been ill for two years past. I find there are dreadful diseases among this people. The family was composed of five individuals; Kealoha, Halelo, two women and a girl about fifteen, her name is NaMose, which means in English, Marriage. Ke Aloha is a good man, he has been kind to the Elders. They treated me kindly although they never saw me before.

I attended their meeting although I could not understand. Here I met the Brethren, they seemed very warm hearted and wanted me to go home with them, but I declined as I wanted to see Brother Bell as soon as he came back. On the whole I spent a very pleasant day. In the evening they would have me sing in English. I sang a few of our favorite hymns which pleased them very much.

They thought I did not like their poi, however, they were mistaken for the poi seemed to come quite natural to me. I arose Monday morning a little better, but scarcely any appetite. Spent the day trying to learn the language, much to their amusement, in fact they would puzzle me by telling me the names of a great many things and of course my memory could not contain them. I kept them all quite alive laughing at my blunders.

Brother Bell arrived about six o'clock in the evening. I cannot express how I felt when I saw him. It seemed such a treat to see a white man again, and talk again in my native tongue--English. Brother Bell is a young man, one year younger than I, and a very agreeable companion, and a good man. We spent the evening very agreeable and then retired to rest.

Next day we walked to Waialua. The Saints were very glad to see us. We had a very good meeting with the Saints. Brother Bell did the speaking. The Saints would have us sing in English, it was very difficult for me for I had caught a very bad cold. We stayed all night and the next day went back to Kiliula. Brother Bell had the kindness to lend me his books. I spent the remainder of the week studying the language.

On Thursday we met with the Saints at Waialua, it being Fast Day. We also held meeting there the following Sunday and partook of the Sacrament. At the Saints request I spoke my feelings, Brother Bell being interpreter. Brother Bell and I sang "The Spirit of God Like a Fire is Burning," the Saints were very pleased to hear us sing in English. In fact where ever we go that is about the first thing we have to do when we visit the natives.

On Tuesday, we started around the Island Eastward to hunt up the Saints. We reached Lupehu, about eight or ten miles from Waialua. We stopped two or three times on the way, Brother Bell preaching where ever he could get a chance. One place they called us all the dirty names they could think of. The parties called themselves Calvinists. However, we got to a Brother's house at Lupeho, we found only his wife there as he had gone to Lahaina (his name is Kuli). She boiled a fowl for us and we ate quite a hearty supper of that and poi. Brother Bell preached and argued until a late hour.

This place is swarming with fleas, cockroaches, and centipedes. One big centipede about six inches long got right under me as I was lying down. I went to knock some cockroaches off me, and put my hand right on him, he ran away before we would catch him. When we went to bed we left our trousers on and tucked the bottoms into our socks to keep the reptiles from crawling up inside, which they are not above doing if they get a chance. However, in spite of everything I slept sound until morning.

After breakfast of sweet potatoes and fish, we went on our journey. We reached Halana about mid day after traveling over very high mountains in the hot sun. We stopped and talked with two men for some time, then went farther on until we saw a number of kanakas sitting under a Kukui nut tree. They called us up so of course we accepted the invitation. They then ran and got some watermelons for us. We soon had a number of kanakas, both young and old as we were quite a curiosity to them. It was soon known all over that we were Mormons.

We went down to the Calvinist Meeting house where a native preached to a pretty large congregation. I believe that most of them came to see us as much as anything else. The Preacher said we were two lions come among the sheep. We stopped at a Calvinist's house, whose name was Popoki which interpreted means cat. We had dry raw fish and poi. The next morning we took a walk up the valley to see a couple of large waterfalls. They are each about a hundred feet high. I took a sketch of them, then we came down and crossed the river and went down on the other side. We met with only one Brother, and he belonged to Kiliula.

As we were going along a kanaka called to us to go to his house and preach the Gospel. We were there and stopped for about a half an hour but were so insulted we were obliged to leave.

Next morning we started to go back to Waialua, we reached Lupehu about midday. Brother Kuli had just got back from Lahaina, we stopped there all night and then went back to Waialua where we found the Saints feeling very well and glad to see us again.

The next day being Sunday, we went to Kiliula and held meetings there. One thing I would add is that I had no clean shirt to put on, the Saints making the excuse that they had no soap, but I soon found out that it was their laziness. Ke Aloha told me, as he had friends there, who by the way were outsiders, he could not accommodate us for the present, adding that we had better go to Waialua to stay. Accordingly I packed up my things and after holding meeting that evening, went up to Waialua without any supper. Waialua Saints are a great deal more warm hearted than those at Kiliula.

On Monday I got a horse from one of the brethren and went to Kiliula to get my trunk. I had no sooner got it across the saddle when the horse jumped and down went the trunk. The horse was dreadfully frightened. I, therefore, took out a few things I wanted and left the trunk for the present. I spent most of the week in drawing and painting the sketch I had taken in Halana and studying the language.

On Sunday we held meeting in Waialua. We ordained one young man named Lili, an Elder. I this day made my first attempt at giving out hymns in native. The natives seemed astonished; that gave them enough to talk about the rest of the day.

On Monday the 24th of September, Brother Bell and I started around the Island, Westward, intending to go to Kaualuno, Kaluakii, and possibly to the end of the Island. There being no food in Waialua, we went without our breakfast and stopped at Kiliula and made a sumptuous repast on salt and poi, as they had nothing else. We then pursued our journey and reached Kaluaha. We were invited to stop all night there. A gentleman who was stopping there invited us to go and see a friend of his, a Portuguese. We went and he entertained us very hospitably. We had coffee, poi, potatoes, etc. We spent the evening very agreeable but somehow or other we said nothing about Mormonism. I felt some way that it would be casting pearls before swine and yet I did not like the idea of leaving without him hearing my testimony of the truth of Mormonism.

September 25th, Kaluaha. This morning we pursued our journey, our road lay close by the seashore for about ten miles. We traveled about nine miles in hope of getting some dinner, but hoped in vain. We stayed a long time, Brother Bell preaching; at last he told the people of the house we were hungry. They said they had no food, so we had a drink of water and made another start. The roads were sandy and heavy, and the sky was cloudless, and the sun seemed as if it was trying to melt us to death. It fairly made the perspiration run off of us. After walking about ten miles we then struck across country. Our road now lay over steep mountains. We had to travel fifteen miles before we could get anything to eat. We then stopped at a German house, they entertained us very hospitably. We had as much milk as we could drink, which was quite a treat, also a good dinner. After resting ourselves we pursued our journey intending to reach Kaualuna that night.

We still ascended for about another mile when the scene suddenly changed. We arrived at the summit of a steep cliff almost perpendicular for at least fifteen hundred or two thousand feet above the level of the sea. Far away below lay the pretty village of Kalaupapo. Potato and melon patches all lay out in full view. Away to the right lay the remains of an old crater and beyond that the open sea. We got pretty tired before we got to the bottom, and besides it rained very heavy and made the roads very slippery. It was between eight and nine o'clock before we reached Kaualuna, and the Saints had all gone to bed. They neither had food nor water when we got there, however, after an hour we got a drink of water and went supperless to bed, or rather laid down on the floor in our wet clothes. I scarcely had a dry thread on me for my coat was very thin and it had rained very heavy. I felt to thank our Heavenly Father for his protecting watch care over us on our journey, but I did not feel very well at our reception. At this time it seemed to me there was not much Mormonism in our host, or at least in the Saints visiting our host. I had a lame leg, my feet were very sore after traveling, however, we laid down and slept very soundly until morning.

September 26th. I arose this morning very near perished with the cold, the house not being finished, the wind blew in very cold. Rained very heavy during the night, and continued until about eleven o'clock and we then went down to the sea and had a bath, after which we took a walk about a mile round the shore, then went to a house and had some sweet potatoes and Luau Kalo tops cooked by steam. We stopped some time, Brother Bell preaching Mormonism to them. We then returned home and met with the Saints, very few attended and they seemed as though they did not have much of the spirit of Mormonism with them.

Thursday, September 27th. Brother Bell and I took a walk to the old crater. It is quite a curiosity. After ascending for about a half a mile we came to the first, or outer rim of the crater. It is about a mile and a half in circumference. We then descended about one hundred and thirty feet. The descent was nearly perpendicular, our path was very rough, and after some difficulty we got to a sort of landing or large flat. We found it covered with sugar cane and some fine long sweet potatoes, some few breadfruit trees. In the center of this flat is a large basin about half a mile in circumference, the sides being perpendicular for about seventy feet. The sides of this basin are very rough, chiefly composed of rough honeycombed rock. The lowest pit is full of salt water which rises and falls with the tide. The natives say there is no bottom to this pit and that formerly they brought their dead and tied stones to their feet and cast them in. After staying as long as the extreme heat and thirst would permit, we left this sacred spot. We stopped at a house and got some watermelons which we found very refreshing after our walk. Brother Bell preached to the inmates of the establishment for some two or three hours, after which we returned home. Had some uncleaned fish and more sour poi.

September 28th, Kaualuna. After breakfasting on raw fish and potatoes we took a walk to Waiakula. We were received very coldly by the natives, we could find no Saints in this place. After some difficulty we got a little salt and poi to eat. We then returned. On our way we stopped at a house and got some sweet potatoes. Soon after we saw some men sitting on the ground, we went to them and Brother Bell talked a long time to them about this Church.

I had a dream last night. I dreamed that Elder Frost appeared to me and told me to go on and be faithful, adding that the Lord was well pleased with me.

Brother Bell and I went round to hunt up the Saints this evening, but found they were all gone fishing.

September 29th. This morning we took a walk in the country and had a fine bath in fresh water. On our way home we called at a house and had some potatoes, after staying awhile we returned home. In the evening we went around again but found only a few of the Saints at home. Brother Bell got talking with some of them and one said he wanted to be cut off tomorrow.

Sunday, September 30th. Met with the Saints before breakfast. They all felt well with the exception of two who desired to be cut off. Met again about twelve o'clock. Brother Bell preached, followed by Kahakawila, President of the Branch. Met again in the afternoon. Some of the brethren spoke their feelings. We cut two off from the Church.

SOURCE: http://joyceholt.4t.com/FWHurst/FWHhome.html

Note Frederick was a very talented artist. The above profile photo is actually a self portrait. You can view the contents of his sketch book "here".

• Residence: Utah, United States - 1870