I take the opportunity of writing you a few lines concerning the business I came here on. I am satisfied myself and several others that the Negro boy belonging to Mr. Smith is here but not controllable yet. He has bin seen by several persons on last Saturday, the 24, and Sunday. He stays during the nights in this settlement — one night at Root’s and the other at Mr. Hunter’s. I am very well convinced in my own mind there is people in the company going to California that is knowing to this boy running away and is interested in getting him off and provided the marshal does not come, I want you to send me further orders. Br. Wm. Hooper I think that the Negro boy colluded him that come through in A. Lynes company, is knowing to the whole matter. There is a good many people going to California that has objections to him going, being that he has a owner in Missouri, and in fact they think that the Marshal will be after him before he crosses Bear River, and I could mention names but for fear of being mistaken I will not do it. That I thing is concerned in this matter.

B. Matthews

To: President Young