This volume is a treasury of anecdotal history and personal experiences of the early Saints. While compiling the early history of the Church, Brother Little determined to obtain as much first-hand information as possible and, during the latter lifetimes of the first members of the Church, interviewed them and collected their stories of personal sacrifice and corresponding blessings. The author's intent was to write a readable account of the various journeys and persecutions suffered by the early Saints. As a preface to this work Brother Little wrote: "History should not only give a correct narrative of events but, as well, the influences and motives that stimulated the actors. For this reason, whenever they left a record of their acts and motives, they should be permitted to speak for themselves. Hence, this book may be considered an epitome of the motives and experiences of the Saints who rejoiced and suffered in the persecutions and exoduses attending the early growth of the Latter-day work."