[ Ed. Note: this estrangement with Almerin is later reversed as Almerin is the one sent on the mission to the Ottoman Sultan]
Great Salt Lake Feby 24th 1865
My dear Saint James and John,
It is a pleasure and relief to get the chance to communicate with the faithful of Weber, and now Bro. George is just about preparing to return after some difficulties that will give experience, that shall help his future usefulness in the work of restoration. I am well aware of the movements of Almerin. As he has left you and not likely by letter or otherwise to trouble you again, let his follies follow him, and not linger round your memories. I heard with disgust the many atrocious, indecent actions, which, by cunning were slided as if emanating from me. I at this time and ever condemn and reject every item of the man's doings up to his departure the last time in Carson. I likewise reject all individuals from my counsels that continue in and love the work fo the adversary, for they are losing time in holding this, the work of the God of Israel in one hand, a serpent in the other. I warn you to receive none (others) as coming from me with spiritual things that would jar with the Holy Spirit of our God, for, be assured, I shall never send any such, neither be imposed on temporally, actuated out of regard to the Lord's servant. Hence yourselves round with a polished judgement on all matters, and become impregnable to unrighteousness, for, with me, you shall be assailed all round. It is yours to hold the mastery-- keep it and conquer, yet withal resting your charity and love where it is legal, acting so that all the House may learn the designs of the Lord in their day. Bro. George has passed much time with me, and is posted with many particulars. Do not hurry him in his revealments; but let it leak, that you get the first impressions correct and in order. He has my confidence and love, andy my faith is,--he shall be restored to you all in safety, rejoicing in his mission performed. It would be superflous in me to write much, for he bears what I wish you to be in possession of—that is far preferable. I will just say: Do not descend to debate with the opposing element unless pressed beyond endurance, then with force and power-- it is unprofitable and against our duty to the Holy Priesthood. Be prepared for all things, and faithfully minister to that portion of Adam's earth, that the ground may be covered and left without excuse, that in a day to come, you can lift your hand and swear you ministered faithfully in Nevada. Let bro. Ford, and the others who are strangers to me send on their genealogies, near as they can, in your letters in their own writing and tender to all the faithful my continued love. As I have to meet Bro. George in the city today, I must close in much esteem for your good works.
I am ever Yours faithfully,
Cainan