Thomas Metcalf, a Soldier in Lahore, Is Struck With Astonishment by Orson Pratt's Tract 'Divine Authority' and Awakens to the Gospel (1849)

Thomas Metcalf, a private in the 98th Regiment stationed in Lahore, East Indies, read a tract titled 'Divine Authority' by Orson Pratt. He reports that the words struck him with astonishment and agreement with scripture, awakening him and others in his regiment to the truth. He subsequently read another tract on the Kingdom of God and sought guidance on how to be saved.

Fuller account of this event (in the witness’s own words):

Lahore, East Indies, May 20th, 1849. Dear Brother Pratt,—I take the liberty of writing to you, to inform you of the progress of the work of the Lord in this distant land. I am a private in the 98th regiment, and have been stationed in Lahore for some time. It is now about four months since I first met with your tract, entitled 'Divine Authority.' It struck me with astonishment; its words were so powerful and unquestionable, agreeing with the scriptures, revealing things that had been so long hidden, as we read in the scriptures, there is nothing hid that shall not be known. I have read this tract through two or three times, and the more I read it, the more I am convinced of the truth of it. I have also read your tract on the 'Kingdom of God,' which has given me great light. I have been searching the scriptures for some time, to know how I might be saved, and I feel thankful to my Heavenly Father that he has directed my mind to these things. There are a few of us here who are reading these tracts, and we are anxious to know more of the truth. We have no one to instruct us, and we should be glad if you could send us some more of your publications, or any information that would be useful to us. We are desirous to be baptized, and to become members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, if there is any way for us to do so. We are in a dark land, and we feel the need of the light of the gospel. I remain, your brother in the gospel, Thomas Metcalf.