Letter from James Ephraim Steele, 25 November 1896 [LE-40840]

Nov 25 [189]6. Pres. Wilford Woodruff and Coun. Salt Lake City Ut. Dear Brethren

At the time of the organization of this Stake (Bingham) Bro. Mullins who was the Bishop of the Iona ward, was called to the Stake presidency. Bro [illegible] F. Ward was then ordained and set apart as the Bishop of Iona ward. He at that time felt some reluctance in regard to accepting the calling, but finally consented and has up till three weeks ago held that position. He has however from time to time wished to resign, but was persuaded to continue on until recently, he sent in his resignation by appearing and stating his case to the Stake presidency at their meeting asking them to release him from the position of Bp. of the Iona Ward. We labored with him for several hours to have him reconsider the step he was taking and to continue to labor in his calling. Our labors however were without avail, and his resignation was accepted he giving his

reasons for resigning, That he could not ask the people to do their duties as members and officers in his ward. To take his place we have selected his first Coun. Alfred J. Stanger, a brother who we consider worthy of the calling also one who has had some 5 years experience in the Bishopric of this ward. we respectfully present this name for your consideration, We will have three Bps to be ordained and set apart at our next Confrence Which will be held at Menan ward. We trust that there will be some of the brethren in attendance and will arrange to have a conveyance meet them at Market Lake Station. I am with kind regards,

Yours Very truly, Jas E, Steele