A DAY OF JUBILEE. 269
reclation mentioned during the council, the Mormons were attacked by a large war party of Sioux, who again carried off many horses. The meeting of the battal- ion and pioneer brethren with Parley Pratt's company was an occasion of rejoicing to all.** On the 7th of Sep- tember the former arrived at the Sweetwater. Here, with the assembled companies, a jubilee was held and a feast of good things prepared. While the men cut down brush and constructed a bowery, the women, with great trouble, unpacked their dishes and table furniture, delighted at the opportunity of assistinof at such an event. A fat heifer was killed, and what- ever luxuries were in camp were now produced. A slight snow fell, but in nc degree marred their merri- ment; the feast was followed by music and dancing, and by accounts of the pioneers' experiences in en- tering upon and settling their new Zion; after prayer the company dispersed.*^ The remnants of the ban- quet were left with the eastern-bound train, and as they separated each bade the other God speed. A fortnight before reaching Winter Quarters a small dele- gation met Brigham's company with most welcome supplies. On the 31st of October, when within one mile of the settlement, Brigham called his men to- gether, praised them fortheir good conduct, blessed and dismissed them. They drove into town in order an hour before sunset. The streets were crowded, and friends pressed forward, shaking hands as they passed through the lines. *^
During this season an abundant harvest had been gathered by the brethren at their encampments near
^* 'Met Spencer's advance company Sept. .3d, with 76 wagons; we bad a joyful meeting; on the 4th met encampment of 75 wagons; on the 5th 1G2; and on the 8th met the last company of saints.' Hint. B. Young, MS., 1847.
^^ 'All felt greatly encouraged. We now knew for tlie first time our des- tination; wc had talked of California, and knew not until now where we should settle.' Home's ^fir] ration!*, MS., 22.
^^ ' We were truly rejoiced once more to behold our wives, children, and oldfriends, after an absence of six months, having travelled over 2,000 miles. . . and accomplished the most important mission in this last dispensation.' Hist. B. Young, MS., 1S47, 122.
