our nation have rarely had to brave. It was soon apparent that
they need fear no "Mormon" attack; orders had been issued to the
territorial militia to take no life except in cases of absolute
necessity; but General Johnston and his staff had more than their
match in battling with the elements. Communications between
Governor Young and the commandant were frequent; safe conduct was
assured any and all officers who chose to enter the city; and if
necessary hostages were to be given; but the governor was
inexorable in his ultimatum that, as an organized body with
hostile purpose, the soldiers should not pass the mountain
gateway. In the meantime, a full account of the situation was
reported by Governor Young to the President of the United States,
and the truth slowly made its way into the eastern press.
President Buchanan tacitly admitted his mistake; but to recall
the troops at that juncture would be to confess humiliating
failure.

A peace commissioner, in the person of Colonel Kane, was
dispatched to Salt Lake City; his coming being made known to
Governor Young, an escort was sent to meet him and conduct him
through the "Mormon" lines. The result of the conference was
that the "Mormon" leaders but reiterated their statement that the
President's appointees would be given safe entry to the city, and
be duly installed in their offices, provided they would enter
without the army. This ultimatum was carried to the federal
camp; and to the open chagrin of the commandant, Governor Cumming
and his fellow appointees moved to Salt Lake City under "Mormon"
escort, after a five months' halt in the wilderness.

I believe that strategy is usually allowed in war, and I am free