487 who fell, apparently from a state of perfect health, upon their couches, in the most excruciating pain conceivable. We used due diligence through the day, both physical and spiritual, to relieve them from this distressing disease; but despite all our efforts four of them fell victims to death, and were buried in the course of the night. We continued with the camp all night, doing all that lay in our power to relieve their distresses.
"25th. We continued our labors through this day, but despite all our efforts five more fell victims to its ravages in the course of the day.
"To-day we disbanded the company and as many as were able scattered abroad among the brethren in the country. Many flew to our relief and gave us rest."
Thus ended the expedition of "Zion's Camp," and the camp passed into history.
What was accomplished by all this sacrifice? Impossible to tell. Such questions mortals cannot decide. Could we know what would have been the result upon the church, and their brethren in Zion, had they failed to go, we might by comparison form some conclusion; but that is impossible. It at least served to show the courage and determination of these early adherents of the faith under the most adverse circumstances and most appalling perils. It did more-it emphasized this important truth: That Zion must be redeemed by purchase and not by blood. All honor to the brave men who suffered or died in the heroic struggle to relieve their brethren in distress.
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