Richmond, Ray Co., Mo., March 20th, 1881.
Bro. Joseph:—For the first time I have set my feet on the land called the "regions round about," and when I stop and think that over forty years ago, the Prophet stood in this city guarded as a criminal, it brings serious thoughts to my mind. I think of his appeal for redress, and how he was turned away with, "your cause is just, but we can do nothing for you."
I have just been conversing with Elder David Whitmer, the last of the three special witnesses of the Book of Mormon. His testimony is still the same as we see appended to the Book of Mormon. He expresses a strong belief in the Bible and Book of Mormon, holds that there should be no other name to the Church but that of Christ. He is very social, and a man of good repute. His testimony is good. I can only pray that the differences among the different forms of the Saints of latter days, which are wrong will be dispensed with, and I believe they will. I want to be one found battling for truth. I verily believe I ought to proclaim the gospel, and nothing else; hope to see the time when my soul will be satisfied, and Israel redeemed, the Saints purified, so that the glorious light of the gospel will be known from sea to sea, and a preparation made for the advent of the Messiah. As ever, yours in gospel truth,
J. R. BADHAM.