73. Wallula, Jean Thonney

We arrived at Wallula Junction, and the train stopped for several hours. We left for Walla Walla toward nightfall, and were to arrive at nine. That time was precious to me, for I felt a close communion

with my Heavenly Father. I no longer had the anxiety which had accompanied me in my travels.

With a feeling of adoration, I recalled how God had blessed me. I saw myself arrived in the country for which I had sighed, before even the death of my wife. I saw that God Himself had shown me the way, by Mathilde's illness; and that the doctor of Paris had prescribed going to a country of alkali, seeming further to confirm it. I recalled with admiration how much God had protected us during this long, long voyage; for if, during these two months, one of us had met with an accident, we should all have been stopped, and one could not know that the results might have been.

I had seen again my two brothers, all the young folks, who had come with me, were placed, and during the voyage there had been no clashing.

I had written Frère Thonney from Portland. I had the sweet conviction that he would be waiting us at the station, and that in our walk here below, we should be understanding in regard to the things of God.

We made the acquaintance of that highly respected minister, Mr. Wilber, who spoke to us with benevolence.

While I meditated on these thoughts, I heard the cry, "Walla Walla!" We took our parcels, and then, at the moment of descending I heard a voice calling, "Mr. Rochat!"

Precisely, as I had thought: In an instant we were in the wagon, with Brother Thonney and his son John.

We arrived soon on Main Street. In seeing that long street with the stores well lighted, I formed a high opinion of the town.

Arriving at the farm, we found a good supper ready for us, and soon after a good bed. This terminates my voyage.

"Bless the Lord, o my soul, and forget not all His benefits!"

The trip had cost six thousand francs, that is, one thousand two hunded dollars.

What has happened since is better known by my children than by me, so I stop.

- Henri Rochat

Vallee St. Joseph, Idaho,

6 March 1893