Scope and Contents The diary begins on page 5 (pages 1-4 are missing in the original), dated 22 July 1846 at Council Bluffs. The first entry describes the problems of tent living in the wind and storms of the day. Mary records the hardships of camp life--people living in tents and wagons, pouring rains that keep the bedding and clothing wet, and sickness and death. She describes nursing the sick and discusses letters and presents sent by her husband. Also mentioned are household tasks such as knitting, washing,...