they stayed a few days. They then went to Cincinnati and from that city to
the mouth of the Ohio river by boat. It was now very cold, and the river
was so blocked with ice that the boat could go no farther. The missionaries
therefore walked the rest of the distance to St. Louis and from there
across the state of Missouri to its western boundary.

The snow was deep, there were no beaten roads, the houses were few and far
between, and the wind blew fierce and cold. For days they had nothing to
eat but corn bread and frozen pork; but at last they reached the town of
Independence, in Jackson county, Missouri, which was then near to the
Indian country.

The elders now took up their labors among the Indians. They were kindly
received, and the chief called a council which Oliver Cowdery addressed.
The Book of Mormon was presented to them and explained, and they became
very much interested. The sectarian preachers heard about this and
complained to the Indian agent, who ordered the elders off the Indian
lands. So after but a few days of preaching the elders had to leave. They
went back to Jackson county and preached to the white settlers, some of
whom believed the word of God and were added to the Church. Four of the
elders remained at Independence, while Bro. Pratt was sent back to Kirtland
to report their labors.

Topics.--1. Parley P. Pratt. 2. The first mission to the Indians. 3. At
Kirtland. 4. Journey to Independence and preaching to Indians.

Questions and Review.--1. Who was Parley P. Pratt? 2. Name some of the
books he wrote. 3. Give a brief sketch of his life. 4. Name those who went
on the first mission for the Church. 5. What was the special object of this
mission? 6. About how far is it from Fayette to Independence, Mo.? 7. Where