Great Salt Lake City, July 19th, 1849

Dear Bro. Hyde,

Upon receiving this, you will probably have government cooperation with Dr. Bernhisel in relation to our territorial organization. Since the Dr. has left, we have continued to agitate this subject until it has resulted, as you will perceive, in accompanying documents, into a re-assumption of organization. We could not avail of the tardy operations of the Federal Government without adopting some form suited to our present necessities and had in part adopted our present form before our last communication to you.

We have now completed our organization so far as to elect a delegate, with whom we expect your cooperation in obtaining our admission as an independent state into the Union upon an equal footing with the original states. That delegate is Almon W. Babbitt, who is somewhat acquainted with the pulse of legislation, has formed a considerable acquaintance with many of the members of Congress, especially on the other side of politics. This may prove beneficial to our cause but we principally rely upon you and co-workers that the Lord has directed you to provide that course in which he has called you to guide our influence and preservation of rights.

In regard to the Wilmot Proviso, I am to be distinctly understood that our decision is to leave that subject to the operation of circumstances as common law. You need not infer that it was of any particular weight that as a people we are averse to slavery, but that we wish not to meddle with this subject as to embarrass lean things to be in their natural course.

Bro. Babbitt came here rather soured in his feelings in relation to certain dilemmas of opinion and policy in your session, and fully intended to go on to the gold mines. Your and Bro. Young’s letters made all right so far as you and the council were concerned and his compliance with our laws and regulations here in relation to all of our brethren and otherwise, has only served to do with him as they please. Made all right with him. Let the fact be buried in oblivion is the sentiment here, and out of seeming evil good may be the advent. It cannot be expected that we in this distant region should be able to fully participate in mere local political divisions as it has more much our interest may be expected.

But we are happy to know that in you, Brother Hyde, is a zealous and able advocate, and one that is willing to bring to bear all his talent, wisdom, and influence in the accomplishment of those things most beneficial for our common cause. Your hearty cooperation with Dr. Bernhisel, William C. Coray, and Bro. Babbitt and their associates in this important cause is ardently desired and is fully appreciated. The prayers of our council and of the brethren and associates will be certain to crown your efforts. You will receive from other means of the place a prompter view, the God of peace be with you and shield you with every design of your enemies.

Ever with deep regard and respect,

Your Brother the new everlasting covenant,

Daniel H. Wells