[. . .] On the stand was [. . .] several Presidents of branch societies, Eliza R. Snow Smith, E. [Elizabeth A.] Howard, E. [Emmeline] B. Wells, from Salt Lake City and Sister Sarah S. Richards from Gentile Valley.

[. . .]

Sister Eliza R. Snow Smith spoke a few moments on the subject of Temple Donations, explaining to the sisters how they should manage in reporting their temple money, thought there was a slight mistake made, and that sometimes the 50 <¢> which is which is a monthly Donation [p. 88] that should be made by all, ought not to be reported by the Relief Societies. But if any one felt like donating to the temple independent of the monthly donation it was all right and proper, and there should be kept an account, and also be reported by the various societies. She blessed all present in the name of the Lord.

[. . .] [p. 89]

The stand was occupied by the presiding sisters.

[. . .]

Sister E. R. Snow Smith spoke upon the women’s franchise, the great privileges in having the ballot. She thought it was an imperative duty to vote, and sustain their brethren and help maintain the rights of the people of God. She felt it was as much her duty to vote as to say her prayers. She entreated the sisters to exercise this privilege which the Lord had given them for a wise purpose; exhorted them them to love one another, to be united and forgiving, and if any one offended another to make every possible attempt at reconciliation, and thus promote peace and love instead of confusion, hatred, and strife.

Trials are for our good here upon the earth, we came here to be tried; let us cultivate the spirit of meekness, the spirit of our blessed Saviour, who was tried in all things and overcame all. Let us acknowledge the hand of God under all circumstances, and not repine at the dispensations of Providence, or attribute it to man’s doings, the hand which we can see.

“I am here, nearly 78 years old,” the speaker added, “perhaps you think I am preserved in good health in my old age because I have not had any trials. I have had such as cut me very close, but I am thankful for all the thorny places I have passed through.” She continued upon the saving of grain, how little had been saved compared to what would be needed if there should be a famine. She further referred to sericulture, and would like to know what the sisters were doing in that direction to prepare clothing for themselves against the time when Babylon should fall. In conclusion, Sister Snow made a few remarks upon the law of celestial marriage, which united families together never to be separated. She counseled and exhorted the sisters to meet often together for spiritual instruction and comfort. It was also the counsel of President Young to the sisters, and the more they would meet together the more they would love each other, and become strengthened in spirit, and prepared to fulfill all the duties of life.

[. . .]

Counselor H. [Harriet] C. Brown made a few closing remarks, and presented the presiding officers of the Relief Society to the Conference: Eliza R. Snow Smith, President, and Zina D. [H.] Young and Elizabeth Ann Whitney her Counselors, who were sustained by unanimous vote. Sister Eliza R. Snow Smith then presented the name of Sister Jane S. Richards as President of Weber Stake of Zion and Harriet E. Brown and Sarah A. Herrick as her Counselors, who were also unanimously sustained.

The afternoon services closed with singing: “May we who love the joyful sound.” and benediction by Sister Eliza R. Snow Smith.

[. . .] [p. [2]]