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-The Project Gutenberg EBook of Fragments of Experience, by Various
-
-This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most
-other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions
-whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of
-the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at
-www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have
-to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook.
-
-Title: Fragments of Experience
- Sixth Book of the Faith-Promoting Series
-
-Author: Various
-
-Release Date: September 29, 2015 [EBook #50072]
-
-Language: English
-
-Character set encoding: ISO-8859-1
-
-*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK FRAGMENTS OF EXPERIENCE ***
-
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-Produced by Allie Bowen, Mormon Texts Project Intern
-(MormonTextsProject.org)
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-
-
-
-<h1>FRAGMENTS
-OF
-EXPERIENCE,
-<small>
-
-SIXTH BOOK OF THE
-
-FAITH-PROMOTING SERIES.
-</small><br><br></h1>
-<p class="centered">Designed for the Instruction and Encouragement of Young Latter-day
-Saints.<br><br><br>
-</p>
-<p>
-<p class="centered">JUVENILE INSTRUCTOR OFFICE,<br>
-Salt Lake City,<br>
-1882.
-</p>
-
-
-<h2><a name="PREFACE"></a>PREFACE.
-</h2>
-<p>In issuing this, the Sixth Book of the FAITH-PROMOTING SERIES, we trust
-that it will meet with the same kind reception that its predecessors
-have. Perhaps no books that have ever been published in our Church have
-become so popular in so short a time as the volumes of this Series
-which have already been issued. They have tended towards supplying a
-want which has long been felt in our community, and we feel assured
-that they have done a great amount of good.
-</p>
-<p>Young minds, as a rule, are not attracted by those publications which
-treat specially upon doctrine. They are usually too profound for young
-people to grasp and fully comprehend the ideas that are contained
-in them. To the person with fully matured mind and well-developed
-reasoning faculties they may appear ever so simple, and even
-fascinating, but to most young people they are uninteresting, to some
-positively distasteful. And yet there is scarcely a child but can be
-taught principle in the form of narrative, wherein the application
-is made for him in scenes from real life, and appreciate it. There
-is no more sure way of instilling into the mind of a child faith in
-God and in the work which He has established upon the earth than by
-illustrating it with incidents from actual experience. The lesson, too,
-is likely to be all the more effective in the persons whose lives are
-held up for examples are those with whom the child is acquainted and in
-whom he has confidence. The lives of many of the Elders of the Church
-of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints abound in incidents which, if
-written and published, would tend to inspire those who might read them
-with faith in God and a spirit of emulation. We hope a more general
-interest may soon be felt throughout our Church in writing up such
-incidents. That the host of children now growing up in the valleys of
-the mountains appreciate and are ready to profit by their perusal there
-can be no doubt.
-</p>
-<p>The FRAGMENTS OF EXPERIENCE herein contained are collected at random,
-but many valuable lessons may be drawn from the incidents narrated, and
-we trust that the seed which they may sow in the hearts of those who
-peruse them will be productive of a rich yield of fruit in the kingdom
-of our Father.
-</p>
-<p>THE PUBLISHER.
-</p>
-
-
-<h2>CONTENTS.
-</h2>
-<h3><a href="#HELP">HELP PROM THE LORD.
-</a></h3>
-<p>Mission to Illinois when a Boy&mdash;Attempt of a Deacon to Put me to
-Shame&mdash;Open my Bible to the Passage Required&mdash;Prove our Position
-Correct from the Scriptures&mdash;Befriended by an Infidel&mdash;Preachers
-Assault on the "Frogs"&mdash;The "Frog" Replies.
-</p>
-<h3><a href="#EARLY">EARLY EXPERIENCE OF A LATTER-DAY SAINT.
-</a></h3>
-<p>Hear the Gospel by Chance&mdash;Compunction at Speaking Lightly of
-the Prophet&mdash;Join the Church&mdash;A New Suit of Clothes&mdash;Opposed by
-Relatives&mdash;My Old Friend, the Bible&mdash;A Dream&mdash;Required to Renounce
-"Mormonism" or Leave the House&mdash;My Relatives Refuse to Speak to
-me&mdash;They Pawn my Clothes&mdash;I Recover Them&mdash;Violence Used&mdash;My Clothes
-Torn&mdash;My Mother's Death&mdash;My Brothers Quarrel, and call upon me to
-Settle their Difficulties&mdash;My Brother Sick&mdash;Healed in Answer to my
-Prayer.
-</p>
-<h3><a href="#DISOBEDIENCE">DISOBEDIENCE TO COUNSEL.
-</a></h3>
-<p>Driven from my Property by the Mob&mdash;Desire to Return and Recover some
-of it&mdash;Counseled by the Church Authorities not to Go&mdash;Persist in
-Going&mdash;Visit a Friendly Family&mdash;Amiable Intention of my Debtors&mdash;Meet
-two of Them They Threaten my Life&mdash;Despair of Getting Anything and Try
-to Start Home&mdash;Beaten over the Head with a Pole&mdash;Barely Escape with my
-Life&mdash;Ashamed to have my Friends Know It&mdash;The Lesson I Learned.
-</p>
-<h3><a href="#LORENZO">LORENZO DOW YOUNG'S NARRATIVE.</a>
-</h3>
-<p class="centered"><a href="#LCHAPTERI">CHAPTER I.
-</a></p>
-<p>My Mother's Promise&mdash;Chased by Wolves&mdash;A Remarkable Dream&mdash;Thrown from
-a Horse&mdash;Providentially Saved&mdash;Religious Revival&mdash;Preachers Try in
-vain to Convert me&mdash;Ridiculed for not Playing at Cards&mdash;Read Infidel
-Works&mdash;Their Effect&mdash;A Vision.
-</p>
-<p class="centered"><a href="#LCHAPTERII">CHAPTER II.
-</a></p>
-<p>Marriage&mdash;A Vision of Other Worlds&mdash;My Reluctance at Returning to
-a Mortal Existence&mdash;A Promise with Conditions&mdash;I Exhort Others to
-Faithfulness.
-</p>
-<p class="centered"><a href="#LCHAPTERIII">CHAPTER III.
-</a></p>
-<p>I Take to Preaching&mdash;Make Many Converts&mdash;Refuse to Baptize
-Them&mdash;They are Baptized by a Campbellite Preacher&mdash;Urged to Join the
-Campbellites&mdash;Refuse, and the Devil Tempts me&mdash;I Grieve the Spirit,
-but Regain it Through Fasting and Prayer&mdash;Hear the Gospel&mdash;Visit from
-Elder Gifford&mdash;He is Threatened with Tar and Feathers&mdash;My Brother and I
-Defend Him.
-</p>
-<p class="centered"><a href="#LCHAPTERIV">CHAPTER IV.
-</a></p>
-<p>Converted&mdash;Start for Missouri&mdash;Called to Preach "Mormonism" without
-being Baptized&mdash;Join the Church&mdash;Voyage to Pittsburg&mdash;Preach the
-Gospel and Establish a Branch&mdash;Experience as a Trunk-maker&mdash;Mission
-to New York&mdash;Speak in Tongues&mdash;Effects of Preaching Counteracted by
-Lies&mdash;Second Voyage Down the Ohio&mdash;Providential Delay.
-</p>
-<p class="centered"><a href="#LCHAPTERV">CHAPTER V.
-</a></p>
-<p>Removal to Kirtland&mdash;Work upon the Temple&mdash;A Lesson&mdash;
-Sickness&mdash;Pronounced Incurable by Doctors&mdash;Healed in Answer to
-Prayer&mdash;Cured of Lameness&mdash;Removal to Missouri&mdash;Commencement of
-Hostilities&mdash;Surrounded by a Mob&mdash;Face Death&mdash;Rescued.
-</p>
-<p class="centered"><a href="#LCHAPTERVI">CHAPTER VI.
-</a></p>
-<p>Warned to Leave the Country or Renounce "Mormonism"&mdash;Wife and Children
-Threatened&mdash;A Boy's Pluck&mdash;Forced to Flee for our Lives&mdash;Property
-Confiscated&mdash;Battle of Crooked River&mdash;Providentially Saved&mdash;Far West
-Besieged&mdash;Escape to Iowa&mdash;Pursued&mdash;Providential Snow Storm.
-</p>
-<h3><a href="#INSTANCE">AN INSTANCE OF DIVINE INTERPOSITION.
-</a></h3>
-<p>Visit to Scotland&mdash;Meet Old Friends&mdash;Return to Liverpool&mdash;About to go
-by Steamer to Bristol&mdash;A Voice Warns me not to Go&mdash;Turn Back&mdash;Short of
-Money&mdash;Means Providentially Provided&mdash;Journey to Portsmouth&mdash;Sequel to
-the Warning&mdash;The Steamer Wrecked.
-</p>
-<h3><a href="#MYLAST">MY LAST MISSION TO THE SANDWICH ISLANDS.
-</a></h3>
-<p class="centered"><a href="#MCHAPTERI">CHAPTER I.
-</a></p>
-<p>Elders Called Home from the Sandwich Islands&mdash;Native Elders Left to
-Preside&mdash;Gibson's Arrival in Salt Lake&mdash;Joins the Church&mdash;Asks for a
-Mission to the Sandwich Islands&mdash;His Deep-laid Scheme&mdash;Leading Astray
-the Hawaiian Saints&mdash;Five Elders Sent to Investigate&mdash;Arrival at the
-Sandwich Islands&mdash;Attempt to go Ashore in a Boat&mdash;Capsized in the
-Surf&mdash;Elder Lorenzo Snow Lost&mdash;After a Long Search, Found Under the
-Boat&mdash;Efforts to Resuscitate Him&mdash;Restored to Life One Hour After Being
-Drowned.
-</p>
-<p class="centered"><a href="#MCHAPTERII">CHAPTER II.
-</a></p>
-<p>Journey to Lanai&mdash;Meet Mr. Gibson&mdash;Reverence of Natives for Him&mdash;His
-Speech and Assumption&mdash;Elder Joseph F. Smith's Reply&mdash;Elder Snow's
-Prophecy&mdash;Mr. Gibson Cut Off the Church&mdash;Elder Snow's Prophecy
-Fulfilled&mdash;Advised to Select a New Gathering Place&mdash;A Vision&mdash;Suitable
-Place Pointed Out.
-</p>
-<h3><a href="#PROPHECY">A PROPHECY FULFILLED.
-</a></h3>
-<p>Called on a Mission to the Sandwich Islands&mdash;Journey by the
-Southern Route&mdash;A Prophecy&mdash;Fear After Uttering It&mdash;Residence
-in Honolulu&mdash;Political and Religious Conflict&mdash;The Kingdom in
-Jeopardy&mdash;Dissatisfaction Among the People&mdash;Letter to the King
-Favorably Considered&mdash;A Dream&mdash;A Prince sent by the King to Ask Counsel
-of Latter-day Saint Elders&mdash;Advice Accepted, and the Kingdom Saved&mdash;The
-Dream and Prophecy Fulfilled Together.
-</p>
-<h3><a href="#SPECIAL">SPECIAL PROVIDENCES.
-</a></h3>
-<p>Circumstances under which the Early Temples were Built&mdash;How the
-Workmen were Encouraged&mdash;Arrival of Brother L&mdash;&mdash; in Nauvoo&mdash;His
-Willingness to Work without Pay&mdash;His Extreme Want&mdash;Appeals to
-God for Help&mdash;Money Miraculously Provided&mdash;Prayer for Food
-Answered&mdash;Providential Finding of a Pair of Shoes on the Plains&mdash;A
-Crippled Shoulder Restored while Defending the Character of Joseph
-Smith.
-</p>
-<h3><a href="#INCIDENTS">INCIDENTS ON THE PLAINS.
-</a></h3>
-<p class="centered"><a href="#ICHAPTERI">CHAPTER I.
-</a></p>
-<p>Army Sent to Utah&mdash;Missionaries Called Home&mdash;Large Number Assembled
-at Florence&mdash;Dangers of Trip&mdash;Council to Decide Upon Course of
-Action&mdash;Fortunate Fog&mdash;Providential Storm.
-</p>
-<p class="centered"><a href="#ICHAPTERII">CHAPTER II.
-</a></p>
-<p>Apostates Met&mdash;The Chaplain Separates From the Company to Meet some
-Apostates&mdash;An Adventurous Trip&mdash;Discharged Government Teamsters
-Indignant at "Mormons"&mdash;Plot to Steal the Chaplain's Horse&mdash;Advice to
-the Apostates to Look to Their Own Safety&mdash;Mr. Stout's Compassion for
-the Hatchet-faced Missourian&mdash;How His Confidence was Rewarded&mdash;Meet
-Captain Hatch&mdash;News of Buchanan's Amnesty Proclamation&mdash;Evade the Army
-and Reach the Valley in Safety.
-</p>
-
-
-<h2><a name="HELP"></a>HELP FROM THE LORD
-</h2>
-<p class="centered">By C.
-</p>
-<p class="chapterHeading">MISSION IN ILLINOIS WHEN A BOY&mdash;ATTEMPT OF A DEACON TO PUT ME TO
-SHAME&mdash;OPEN MY BIBLE TO THE PASSAGE REQUIRED&mdash;PROVE OUR POSITION
-CORRECT FROM THE SCRIPTURES&mdash;BEFRIENDED BY AN INFIDEL&mdash;PREACHER'S
-ASSAULT ON THE "FROGS"&mdash;THE "FROG" REPLIES.
-</p>
-<p>In the year 1845, I was appointed on a mission from Nauvoo, to labor
-about Cass County, Illinois, in company with Theodore Curtis.
-</p>
-<p>After traveling together we concluded to separate, and I continued
-alone, preaching wherever an opportunity presented itself.
-</p>
-<p>One evening I was approaching a little town called Virginia, foot-sore
-and weary, having been frequently denied food.
-</p>
-<p>I retired, as was my wont particularly when so impressed, for prayer,
-and for God to soften the hearts of those I might meet, to give me
-shelter, food and rest, and finally to open up my way.
-</p>
-<p>Towards evening I found a number of persons congregated at the country
-store. I saluted them with "Good-evening," and inquired the opportunity
-of getting a chance to preach in that place.
-</p>
-<p>I carried the badge of a "Mormon" preacher in my hand, namely, a small
-round valise, containing a shirt, change of socks, Bible and hymn book.
-I was soon assured by one or two that there was no earthly show for a
-"Mormon" preacher to be heard in that place.
-</p>
-<p>I replied, "I would like to preach in that nice, newly-finished
-meeting-house just opposite." A man spoke up quite authoritatively, and
-said that no "Mormon" should preach in that house, which had just been
-dedicated&mdash;I think for Presbyterian worship.
-</p>
-<p>They termed this man the deacon. This produced considerable talk,
-for many of the crowd were of what is termed the liberal or infidel
-persuasion, so much so that the deacon was overwhelmed by argument,
-shame and reproach, for refusing a boy like me a chance to preach.
-</p>
-<p>To cover his shame and to nonplus me, he remarked, "I have heard say
-that your preachers are pretty apt with the scriptures, and can produce
-almost any doctrine you like from the Bible." I replied that the men
-were, but that I was but a boy; yet I thought I knew a little of the
-scriptures.
-</p>
-<p>He remarked "Your people believe in laying hands on the sick; don't
-you?"
-</p>
-<p>I answered that we did, and because Christ had said in His remarkable
-commission to His apostles, that this was one of the signs following,
-quoting Mark xvi, 15-18. I also quoted James v., 14.
-</p>
-<p>"Yes, yes;" says he, "that is all very good, but that says only once,
-and your Elders sometimes lay hands twice in succession on the same
-person. Whoever heard of Jesus or the apostles doing anything like
-that?" He then cited an instance where, as he said, Joseph Smith had
-done this in administering to a sick woman.
-</p>
-<p>The good-natured excitement was intense. The deacon thought I was
-overwhelmed, and proposed that if I could prove a similar transaction
-from the scriptures, I might preach in that house that very night.
-</p>
-<p>Eagerness now seized the men, and the deacon chuckled over his presumed
-victory, and boasted of his acquaintance with the "Blessed Word."
-</p>
-<p>I unbuckled my valise, drew forth my little Bible, and opened it
-intuitively to this passage in Mark viii., 22-25: "And he cometh to
-Bethsaida; and they bring a blind man unto him, and besought him to
-touch him. And he took the blind man by the hand, * * * and put his
-hands upon him, and asked him if he saw aught. And he looked up, and
-said, I see men as trees, walking. After that he put his hands <em>again</em>
-upon his eyes, and made him look up: and he was restored, and saw every
-man clearly."
-</p>
-<p>The reading of this scripture; the sudden finding of it, for I was led
-to it as clearly as a man leads his horse to the water; its aptness and
-conclusiveness, accompanied by the jeers of the infidel portion of the
-crowd, mortified the deacon&mdash;he was discomfited.
-</p>
-<p>I remarked that I would, according to the deacon's terms, preach in the
-church that evening, provided some one would find candles. The candles
-were instantly offered, and accordingly, I preached with power and the
-demonstration of the Spirit.
-</p>
-<p>After the close of the services, I found a resting place with one of
-the most avowed infidels of the neighborhood, who had listened to the
-talk between the deacon and myself, and who particularly enjoyed the
-good man's discomfiture. By his persuasion I staid some time in the
-neighborhood, occupying occasionally the school-house.
-</p>
-<p>He even proffered me some land to build me a house if I would stay,
-preach and teach school; but my mind was bent on returning to Nauvoo.
-</p>
-<p>But one evening, when I had been preaching my intended farewell
-sermon in the closely-packed school-house, and just at its close, a
-person arose and said that, God willing, he would deliver a discourse
-there the next Sunday, and expose the "Mormon" delusion, giving his
-announcement all the force and emphasis possible.
-</p>
-<p>My friends gathered at my place of stopping, and, joining with my host,
-prevailed upon me to stay. The word was given out that I had gone to
-Nauvoo.
-</p>
-<p>At the time appointed a great crowd had convened&mdash;time, early
-candle-light.
-</p>
-<p>I arrived late, purposely. My friend and I took seats near the door.
-</p>
-<p>The preacher, after preliminaries, opened the Bible, and, for his text,
-read the 13th and 14th verses of the 16th chapter of Revelations.
-</p>
-<p>After dilating upon the swampy nature of the soil contiguous to Nauvoo,
-styling it a good place for frogs, and facetiously comparing it to the
-"mouth of the dragon," he came down heavily on the "false prophet," the
-miracles, etc. It was a most scathing rebuke on "Mormonism."
-</p>
-<p>His final peroration was on the habits of the frogs, which, while no
-footsteps were heard, croaked and croaked, but at the first sound of
-an approaching footstep, dodged their heads beneath the water. "So,"
-said he, at the same time rising to the sublime hight of his oratory,
-"where, oh where is the frog that croaked here a day or two ago? Gone
-to that slough of iniquity, Nauvoo, the seat of the dragon and the
-false prophet. Why has he fled? Because he heard the footsteps of your
-true shepherd." After much interlarding, he dismissed by prayer.
-</p>
-<p>I immediately arose and said that the frog was there yet, and would
-croak once more, naming the time.
-</p>
-<p>Shouts from the audience named that same evening as the time, and the
-reverend preacher, amid jeers, cheers and cries of, "Give the boy a
-chance!" made for the one door.
-</p>
-<p>My friend was alive to the emergency, and I, nothing loth, opened a
-fusilade from I. Timothy, 4th chapter, while the preacher was hemmed in
-by the crowd, and my friend with his back to the door.
-</p>
-<p>After an exhaustive testimony of the work, we all departed, some
-pleased, some chagrined.
-</p>
-<p>In both of the instances here narrated, the opening of the Bible to the
-apt and confirmatory passages, were then to my mind clearly the answer
-to prayer, for if ever previously read they had escaped my memory.
-</p>
-<p>How much good I did on that mission, I cannot guess. One thing I do
-know, as a general rule not many are truly converted by the clamor of
-crowds, or the frenzy of debates.
-</p>
-<p>My object in giving these two instances is to incite my young brethren
-to a study of the scriptures, the necessity of earnest secret prayer,
-and confidence in the promise that at the hour and time God will help
-them, and bring them off victoriously.
-</p>
-<p>Great care must be taken to give God the glory in your after prayer,
-"for no flesh can glory in his sight."
-</p>
-<p>Enconiums should produce humility, lest we be puffed up, and, in an
-after time, display our complete nothingness.
-</p>
-
-
-<h2><a name="EARLY"></a>EARLY EXPERIENCE OF A LATTER-DAY SAINT.
-</h2>
-<p class="chapterHeading">HEAR THE GOSPEL BY CHANCE&mdash;COMPUNCTION AT SPEAKING LIGHTLY OF
-THE PROPHET&mdash;JOIN THE CHURCH&mdash;A NEW SUIT OF CLOTHES&mdash;OPPOSED BY
-RELATIVES&mdash;MY OLD FRIEND, THE BIBLE&mdash;A DREAM&mdash;REQUIRED TO RENOUNCE
-"MORMONISM" OR LEAVE THE HOUSE&mdash;MY RELATIVES REFUSE TO SPEAK TO
-ME&mdash;THEY PAWN MY CLOTHES&mdash;I RECOVER THEM&mdash;VIOLENCE USED&mdash;MY CLOTHES
-TORN&mdash;MY MOTHER'S DEATH&mdash;MY BROTHERS QUARREL AND CALL UPON ME TO SETTLE
-THEIR DIFFICULTIES&mdash;MY BROTHER SICK&mdash;HEALED IN ANSWER TO MY PRAYER.
-</p>
-<p>The substance of the following little sketch was told to the writer by
-the subject of it, who is an Elder in the Church, and lives in Salt
-Lake City. His name is Robert P&mdash;k. We give it in words as near his own
-as we can remember.
-</p>
-<p>I was born and reared in the city of Glasgow, Scotland. I passed my
-boyhood without thinking much on religious matters, till I was about
-eighteen years of age. At this period of my life I was walking along
-what is called the Green, a kind of public park, when my attention was
-attracted by some men discussing publicly the principles of religion.
-One of them was a Baptist, and I could see that he had the best of the
-argument, baptism by immersion being a Bible doctrine. This was on
-Sunday evening.
-</p>
-<p>After listening to the discussion for some time, I was attracted to a
-place where another man was preaching. This one proved to be an Elder
-of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
-</p>
-<p>I was so struck with the principles he advanced, that I drank down
-greedily every word he spoke, and on hearing him tell where the
-meeting-house of the Latter-day Saints was situated, I went there. I
-was, however, too bashful to go inside, but I walked back and forth
-around the building, listening and catching whatever words I could.
-</p>
-<p>I was out later than usual that night, and when I got home I was
-questioned as to the cause of my absence, by my mother (my father had
-been dead many years) and brothers. I said I had been to hear the
-"Mormons."
-</p>
-<p>"Who are the Mormons?"
-</p>
-<p>"Why, the followers of Joe Smith," said I. But I had no sooner said
-this than a sharp pang shot through me, and I felt condemned for
-speaking thus irreverently of the prophet. I did it because I thought
-it would excuse me in the eyes of my relatives. I knew I had done
-wrong, for, young as I was, I felt deeply impressed with the idea
-that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God. As it was, I was severely
-reprimanded for staying out so late.
-</p>
-<p>Shortly after this I went to meeting and heard Elder John Taylor speak
-on the setting up of the kingdom of God in the latter days, which did a
-great deal towards convincing me that the Lord had revealed the gospel
-in this age. After attending meeting for some time, I was finally
-baptized into the Church, and was filled with joy because I knew that I
-was indeed a member of the true Church of Christ.
-</p>
-<p>Knowing that if my mother and four brothers discovered that I had
-joined the Church I would have no peace at home, I kept the matter
-secret from them. I was but an apprentice and only earning the small
-sum of three shillings a week (equal to seventy-five cents) and was,
-therefore, somewhat dependent on my relatives.
-</p>
-<p>I was about to get my wages raised a shilling a week, and my eldest
-brother, Hugh, proposed that he should get me a suit of clothes, and I
-pay this shilling a week until the suit was paid for, so that I might
-go to church with the rest of the family.
-</p>
-<p>I was glad to exchange, on Sundays, my old, patched, shabby working
-suit for some respectable clothing, and it was agreed to.
-</p>
-<p>On the following Sunday morning I went to meeting as usual, and was
-complimented by the President of the Branch on my improved personal
-appearance. When I got home in the evening the first question asked of
-me was,
-</p>
-<p>"Where have you been?"
-</p>
-<p>"I have been to meeting."
-</p>
-<p>"What meeting?"
-</p>
-<p>"I have been to hear the Latter-day Saints."
-</p>
-<p>At this there was a perfect storm about my ears. I went and got the old
-family Bible, and laid down the "law and the testimony."
-</p>
-<p>In answer to all they would say, I quoted and read from the Bible. I
-explained the principles of the gospel of Jesus, and the strongest
-argument any of them used was in each picking up his hat and walking
-out.
-</p>
-<p>On the following day (Monday) I felt somewhat timid about going home
-in the evening, for I had dreamed on the Sunday night that my brothers
-were plotting to turn me out of the house.
-</p>
-<p>However, home I went, and just as I approached the door I heard their
-voices in conversation, and they were saying they would ask me which
-I would choose, to leave "Mormonism" or the house; and John, who was
-always more rabid and unkind than the rest, said he would not even let
-me eat my supper until I had decided what I should do.
-</p>
-<p>I walked boldly in, sat down, and commenced eating supper. They sat
-silent for a short time, when finally Hugh put the question to me as to
-whether I would renounce "Mormonism," for if I did not I would have to
-leave the house.
-</p>
-<p>I again brought down my old friend, the family Bible, and said:
-"Hugh, if you will prove to me from that sacred book that I am wrong
-in adhering to 'Mormonism,' or rather the gospel of Christ, I will
-renounce it; and if I show you that you are wrong in adhering to Church
-of Scotland, then you should leave that."
-</p>
-<p>I then talked upon the scriptures and the principles of the gospel, and
-they could bring forward no reasonable objections to what I advanced.
-</p>
-<p>Hugh rose to his feet and said: "If father had been alive he would have
-kicked you out of the house."
-</p>
-<p>I answered: "Father is now rejoicing because of my having embraced the
-gospel of Jesus."
-</p>
-<p>At this rejoinder the anger of my brothers increased; and Hugh used his
-old argument of picking up his hat and walking out.
-</p>
-<p>I was induced to make this remark in relation to my father, because on
-the previous Sunday I had heard the doctrine of baptism and salvation
-for the dead preached by Elder John Lyon. While listening to him I was
-so filled with joy and gratitude at the prospect of doing something
-towards the salvation of my father, who had died without a knowledge of
-the gospel, that the tears chased each other down my face like rain. It
-was the first time I had heard the principles by which the grand chain
-which shall link the great human family together will be formed.
-</p>
-<p>Seeing that threats and abuse availed nothing, making no impression
-upon me, my mother and brothers took another course: they would not
-speak to me.
-</p>
-<p>Although I lived in the same house and ate at the same table with them,
-they uttered not a word to me, and would not answer me when I spoke to
-them.
-</p>
-<p>Even my mother's heart seemed entirely hardened towards me, and it
-often cut me keenly when she would meet me on the street and pass
-without speaking.
-</p>
-<p>Notwithstanding all this I rejoiced in the gospel exceedingly, feeling
-that the cause of God was more dear to me than my nearest relatives.
-</p>
-<p>On the next Sunday I went to the drawer where my best suit was usually
-kept, and discovered that it was gone. They had not even left me a
-clean shirt. Nothing daunted, however, I buttoned up my shabby, old,
-every-day coat, and marched off to meeting, feeling that I could
-worship God just as fervently and acceptably in an old suit as in a new
-one.
-</p>
-<p>Instead of handing over my wages to my mother as I usually did, I kept
-them every week, and announced at home my intention of doing so until
-my clothes were returned to me, thinking this would induce them to give
-them up.
-</p>
-<p>However, I happened to come home one day at an unusual time, and in
-turning over some articles to get something I wanted, I came upon a
-ticket which at once explained where my clothes had gone. They had been
-pawned.
-</p>
-<p>That this term may be understood, it may be well to say that they were
-deposited in a place where money is loaned on goods, and when the
-money is returned, with an additional sum as interest, the goods are
-delivered back to the owner.
-</p>
-<p>I took this ticket, and with my wages which I had saved, and a little
-money which I had borrowed, I went to the pawnbroker's and got my
-clothes, and left them, for safe keeping, at the house of a brother in
-the Church.
-</p>
-<p>I dressed up on the following Sunday and presented myself at home at
-dinner time, when my brothers manifested no small astonishment and a
-little shame on seeing that I had discovered their trick.
-</p>
-<p>I had forgotten to say that on several occasions after I had dressed
-for meeting, my brothers would attempt to stop me from going, by main
-force, and several times in their efforts to keep me in, had torn the
-breast out of my shirt, but I invariably succeeded in getting out, and
-when my shirt was torn I would button up my coat and go to meeting.
-</p>
-<p>Matters went on in this way for over two years, during which time I
-had been frequently told to leave the house and never enter it again.
-I paid no attention to this. On being told to go on one occasion,
-however, I said the next time I was ordered off I would go.
-</p>
-<p>Not long afterwards my mother told me to leave the house forever, and I
-announced my intention of doing so on the Sunday following.
-</p>
-<p>When Saturday came I proceeded to tie up my clothes in a bundle. No
-sooner did they see me doing this than they seized my clothing, and
-tore up my shirts and several other articles.
-</p>
-<p>On former occasions when I had been thus abused, it was my custom to
-resist, but this time this disposition had departed; my heart was full;
-I pitied them for their blindness, and I felt like weeping tears of
-sorrow.
-</p>
-<p>I made my way out of the house as best I could, with my wardrobe
-reduced to a single pair of pants, besides the clothes I wore at the
-time. As I was leaving I told them that the course they had taken
-towards me would bring them no good. My mind was filled with grief and
-I slept none that night.
-</p>
-<p>Six weeks after this my mother burst a blood vessel, from the effect
-of which she never recovered, being ill from that time till her death,
-which occurred a year afterwards. This broke up the family.
-</p>
-<p>Hugh married, and my three other brothers, John, George and William
-went to live with him. Some time afterwards John came to me and told me
-they had quarrelled, and he wished me to go and settle matters between
-the brothers, which I did, and the result was that John lived apart
-from the others.
-</p>
-<p>William, who was the most peaceable and amiable of my brothers, was
-taken very ill, and one evening I was impressed to go and see him. I
-found all the members of the family gathered around him, as he was not
-expected to live through the night.
-</p>
-<p>After everybody had left the room but myself, he said to me, "Robert,
-do you believe I shall die to-night?"
-</p>
-<p>I said: "No, I do not."
-</p>
-<p>"I ask you because the others are hypocrites, for when I ask whether
-they think I will die, they say, 'No, you will live,' and then I hear
-them in the adjoining room arranging how they will dress me when I am
-dead."
-</p>
-<p>He fell asleep, and I laid hands upon him and administered to him in
-the name of Jesus Christ, and when he awoke he was much better, and he
-lived for four months after this.
-</p>
-<p>This is a little of my first experience as a Latter-day Saint. Nearly
-every true disciple of Jesus has passed through circumstances that are
-instructive, although trying at the time they occur, and sometimes the
-relating of such things has a good effect, however simple the narrative
-may be.
-</p>
-
-
-<h2><a name="DISOBEDIENCE"></a>DISOBEDIENCE TO COUNSEL.
-</h2>
-<p class="centered">BY ANSON CALL.
-</p>
-<p class="chapterHeading">DRIVEN FROM MY PROPERTY BY THE MOB&mdash;DESIRE TO RETURN AND RECOVER SOME
-OF IT&mdash;COUNSELED BY THE CHURCH AUTHORITIES NOT TO GO&mdash;PERSIST IN
-GOING&mdash;VISIT A FRIENDLY FAMILY&mdash;AMIABLE INTENTION OF MY DEBTORS&mdash;MEET
-TWO OF THEM&mdash;THEY THREATEN MY LIFE&mdash;DESPAIR OF GETTING ANYTHING AND TRY
-TO START HOME&mdash;BEATEN OVER THE HEAD WITH A POLE&mdash;BARELY ESCAPE WITH MY
-LIFE&mdash;ASHAMED TO HAVE MY FRIENDS KNOW IT&mdash;THE LESSON I LEARNED.
-</p>
-<p>To some persons it may appear strange that the Elders of the Church
-in their addresses to the Saints, should so frequently dwell upon the
-necessity of constant obedience to counsel. But although this may seem
-strange, still the experience of both the Elders and the Saints goes to
-prove that "to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the
-fat of rams."
-</p>
-<p>The Bible, the Book of Mormon and the Book of Doctrine and Covenants
-contain many instances of the blessings that have attended obedience,
-and the serious consequences that have followed disobedience.
-</p>
-<p>I will not, however, refer to any one of these divine books; but
-will give my readers an instance of the consequence of disobedience
-which occurred to me in my early experience in the Church, in the
-commencement of the year 1839.
-</p>
-<p>At that time I was living with the Saints in Far West, though I owned
-property, which I had been driven from, at the Three Forks of Grand
-River, distant from Far West about thirty miles.
-</p>
-<p>As I wished to learn whether I could dispose of this property or not, I
-asked Father Joseph Smith and President Brigham Young for counsel about
-visiting Grand River for this purpose. They counselled me not to go;
-but to stay at home.
-</p>
-<p>I had been driven from my property by the mob that came against the
-Saints, and as the Saints were obliged to leave the State I desired
-to go with them to Illinois. But I did not want to be burdensome to
-others. If I could sell my property on Grand River I would not be, so I
-concluded that there could not be much harm in my going to Grand River,
-and I set out.
-</p>
-<p>How I succeeded the following extract from my journal will show.
-</p>
-<p>December 31, 1838, being anxious to obtain means to make a team, that
-I might be able to go with the Saints, I this morning mounted the only
-horse I had left, and started for the Three Forks of Grand River.
-</p>
-<p>I arrived at my farm on new year's day, and learned that a man by the
-name of George Washington O'Niel had it in his possession.
-</p>
-<p>I passed on two miles further to a family by the name of Day, who had
-come in from the Eastern States a few weeks before I was driven away.
-This family had taken no part with the mob. I found the lady at home,
-and received from her a history of my property. She informed me that
-O'Niel and Culp, Missouri mobbers, had said that if ever I came to the
-place they would kill me; and that one Henderson and others would help
-them.
-</p>
-<p>When on my farm I had sold store goods to a number of the citizens,
-who were to pay me for them at Christmas. She said she had heard many
-of them say that if I came there, they would pay me just as "Mormons"
-should be paid.
-</p>
-<p>Just at this time O'Niel and Culp came into the house. They demanded
-of me my reasons for being there. I told them that I was attending to
-my business. They said I had no business there, and if I got away from
-there I would be smart.
-</p>
-<p>I replied that I was white man, that it was time enough to be afraid
-when I saw danger, and that I should go when I pleased.
-</p>
-<p>They told me that they would as soon kill me as a dog, and that there
-would be no more notice taken of my death than if a dog were killed.
-This I very well understood.
-</p>
-<p>They then told me that they supposed I had come to get my property.
-</p>
-<p>I informed them I had; to which they replied that there was no property
-for me.
-</p>
-<p>After repeated threatenings I became convinced that it was in vain
-to think of obtaining anything, and started for my horse, which was
-hitched at the yard fence about five rods from the door.
-</p>
-<p>They followed me. O'Niel picked up the end of a hoop pole which Mr.
-Day had left there, he having been hooping a barrel. With this pole he
-struck me a blow upon the head, which nearly brought me to the ground.
-I looked around for a club with which to defend myself, but there was
-none in sight. He continued striking me, and would doubtless have
-killed me, had it not been for a very thick woolen cap on my head.
-</p>
-<p>Mrs. Day threw open the door and cried murder. I ran for the house to
-get something, if possible, to defend myself with; but before I reached
-the door, he struck me repeatedly, and gave me one blow over the eye,
-the scar of which I carry to this day.
-</p>
-<p>As soon as I got into the house I clutched the fire shovel. At that
-moment Mrs. Day closed the door, so that I could not get out nor O'Niel
-in. He and Culp then passed the window, on which Mrs. Day supposed they
-had started for their guns, so I mounted my horse and rode for Far West
-as fast as I could.
-</p>
-<p>My head and face soon commenced swelling. On my way home I washed
-myself, and resolved not to inform any one what had happened, as Father
-Smith and President Young had both told me not to go.
-</p>
-<p>I reached home about eleven o'clock at night, and went to bed without
-making a light. In the morning I arose, and just as soon as I got out
-of bed, I fell upon the floor. My wife was alarmed and screamed. I told
-her what had happened; but told her to keep the matter from my family.
-Father Smith, however, soon heard of the occurrence, and came to see
-me. He hoped, he said, that the lesson would do me good, and that he
-was glad that I was not quite killed.
-</p>
-<p>Had I obeyed the words "do not go, but stay at home," I should not have
-fallen into this trouble. May you who read this be wise, and in this
-particular, profit by my experience.
-</p>
-
-
-<h2><a name="LORENZO"></a>LORENZO DOW YOUNG'S NARRATIVE.
-</h2>
-<h2><a name="LCHAPTERI"></a>CHAPTER I.
-</h2>
-<p class="chapterHeading">MY MOTHER'S PROMISE&mdash;CHASED BY WOLVES&mdash;A REMARKABLE DREAM&mdash;THROWN FROM
-A HORSE&mdash;PROVIDENTIALLY SAVED&mdash;RELIGIOUS REVIVAL&mdash;PREACHERS TRY IN
-VAIN TO CONVERT ME&mdash;RIDICULED FOR NOT PLAYING AT CARDS&mdash;READ INFIDEL
-WORKS&mdash;THEIR EFFECT&mdash;A VISION.
-</p>
-<p>I was born October 19th, 1807, in the town of Smyrna, Chenango County,
-New York.
-</p>
-<p>My mother was afflicted many years with consumption. I remember her
-as a fervent, praying woman. She used, frequently, to call me to her
-bedside and counsel me to be a good man, that the Lord might bless my
-future life. On one occasion, she told me that if I would not neglect
-to pray to my Heavenly Father, He would send a guardian angel to
-protect me in the dangers to which I might be exposed.
-</p>
-<p>She had so trained me to trust in God, that, even in my early youth, I
-seemed capable of grasping, in my faith, the prophetic promise she had
-made. It sank deep into my heart, and ever since has been an anchor of
-hope in the difficulties and dangers to which I have been exposed.
-</p>
-<p>This pious, faithful, friend and mother, drooped and died on the 11th
-of June, 1814.
-</p>
-<p>Soon after her death, my father broke up housekeeping, and I was sent
-about sixty miles to live with my brother-in-law, John P. Green, near
-Cayuga Bridge.
-</p>
-<p>It was a marshy, malarious country, and I was taken very sick with
-fever and ague, with which I suffered severely. In the fall of 1815,
-we removed to Tyrone, Schuyler County. In the meantime, my father had
-taken up some land on which to make a home, about six miles from where
-Mr. Green lived. This country, at that time, was new, and there was
-nothing but a dense forest between Mr. Green's house and my father's.
-The wolves were very numerous in this forest. At one time, several of
-them chased me to Mr. Green's house, and I seemed to barely escape with
-my life.
-</p>
-<p>During the winter of 1815-16, in company with my brothers, Joseph,
-Phinehas and Brigham, I worked for my father and assisted him to clear
-off some land.
-</p>
-<p>In the autumn of 1816, when about nine years old, I had a peculiar
-dream. I thought I stood in an open, clear space of ground, and saw a
-plain, fine road, leading, at an angle of 45 degrees, into the air, as
-far as I could see. I heard a noise like a carriage in rapid motion, at
-what seemed the upper end of the road. In a moment it came in sight.
-It was drawn by a pair of beautiful, white horses. The carriage and
-harness appeared brilliant with gold. The horses traveled with the
-speed of the wind. It was made manifest to me that the Savior was in
-the carriage, and that it was driven by His servant. The carriage
-stopped near me, and the Savior inquired where my brother Brigham was.
-After informing Him, He further inquired about my other brothers, and
-our father. After I had answered His inquiries, He stated that He
-wanted us all, but He especially wanted my brother Brigham. The team
-then turned right about, and returned on the road it had come.
-</p>
-<p>I awoke at once, and slept no more that night. I felt frightened,
-and supposed we were all going to die. I saw no other solution to
-the dream. It was a shadowing of our future which I was then in no
-condition to discern.
-</p>
-<p>In the morning I told my father the dream, and my fears that we were
-going to die. He comforted me with the assurance that he did not think
-my interpretation was correct.
-</p>
-<p>In the winter of 1817-18, I went to live with my brother-in-law, James
-Little, in the town of Aurelius, Cayuga County, New York. I remained
-there about five years, learning the business of a gardener and fruit
-raiser.
-</p>
-<p>In the summer of my twelfth year, I was placed upon a race horse by
-Mr. Little, and sent on an errand. The animal was too spirited for a
-boy of my age to safely ride. It became frightened and unmanageable.
-It turned so rapidly around that I was thrown out of the saddle. As I
-fell my bare foot slipped through the iron stirrup, where I hung with
-my head just touching the ground. With my left hand, I still grasped
-the bridle rein, on that side, firmly. The horse endeavored to kick me,
-but, fortunately, did not succeed on account of my being too close to
-him. My hold on the bridle rein prevented the animal from running away
-and caused him to whirl around almost in a circle.
-</p>
-<p>In danger we often think with great rapidity. I comprehended my
-situation in a moment, and, at first, could see no way of escape from
-having my brains dashed out. But, as I hung, I was suddenly impressed
-to get hold of the stirrup with my right hand, and make an effort to
-raise myself up, so as to get my foot loose from it. By a great effort
-I succeeded in drawing myself up, and slipping the stirrup over my
-foot. I then let go all hold and fell to the ground.
-</p>
-<p>The horse went at full speed for home and his stable. I got up and was
-not much hurt.
-</p>
-<p>The promise my mother made me flashed into my mind, and I felt thankful
-to the Lord that I had been preserved from serious harm by a kind
-providence.
-</p>
-<p>In the winter of 1819-20, I left Aurelius and went about twenty miles
-to Hector, Schuyler County. A Methodist revival occurred in that town,
-and religious excitement ran so high that it became fashionable to make
-a profession of religion.
-</p>
-<p>So far as I knew, every young person in the neighborhood but myself
-professed to receive "a saving change of heart" before the close of the
-revival.
-</p>
-<p>As was usual during such periods of religious excitement, meetings were
-held nightly. In these meetings it was the custom to request those who
-were "seeking religion," to come forward to some seat reserved for the
-purpose, to be prayed for.
-</p>
-<p>I was somewhat affected by the intense religious feeling. One evening,
-I attended a meeting presided over by Elder Gilmore, the leading
-minister. Two or three other preachers were also present. The usual
-invitation was given for penitents to come forward to the "anxious
-seat."
-</p>
-<p>Some time was spent in prayer, when all who had come forward, except
-myself, professed to have a "change of heart." The meeting was closed,
-and Elder Gilmore proposed that those who were willing to do so, should
-retire to a private house with me, and continue in prayer till I was
-converted.
-</p>
-<p>As proposed, we retired to a neighboring house, where the praying
-continued until two o'clock in the morning.
-</p>
-<p>Elder Gilmore then asked me if I had not received a "change of heart."
-</p>
-<p>I replied that I had not realized any "change."
-</p>
-<p>After so much fruitless labor, they were evidently disposed to give me
-up as a reprobate. Elder Gilmore told me that I had sinned away the day
-of grace, and my damnation was sure. He asserted that he would never
-offer another prayer for me.
-</p>
-<p>Although religious in my nature, even at that early age, sectarian
-religion seemed empty and void.
-</p>
-<p>The following morning, I left the scene of this religious excitement
-in Hector and returned to Cayuga County, about three miles from
-Auburn. There I went to work for Mr. Monroe, to learn the trade of a
-blacksmith. He carried on considerable business, and employed a number
-of young men and apprentices.
-</p>
-<p>One evening, Mr. Monroe and the workmen gathered around the center
-table, in the sitting room, to while away the evening in a game of
-cards. Mr. Monroe invited me to participate.
-</p>
-<p>My father had counseled me never to play a game of cards. "Not," said
-he, "that there is any particular harm in playing a game of cards, but
-card-playing has a tendency to lead those who follow it into other
-vices."
-</p>
-<p>I determined, at the time, to keep his counsel should it cost me my
-situation. Mr. Monroe did not appear disposed to receive any apology
-for not accepting his invitation. I arose, took a Bible that was near
-me, and read during the evening while the remainder of the company
-played cards.
-</p>
-<p>The most of Mr. Monroe's workmen were inclined to infidelity, and the
-course I took that evening, afterwards brought upon me much annoyance
-and ridicule.
-</p>
-<p>Although infidel in principle, Mr. Monroe was kind to those around him,
-and manifested that kindness to me as well as others. He placed in
-my hands several infidel books. Among them, I recollect the writings
-of Voltaire and Thomas Payne. My experience at this time, taught me
-that skeptical works cannot be read without leaving their impression
-on the mind. A continuation of reading them must, eventually, lead to
-confirmed infidelity.
-</p>
-<p>The teachings of my pious parents had given me considerable faith in
-God, and I enjoyed some of His Spirit. It has since been evident to me,
-that the reading of those infidel books stirred up an antagonism in me
-between the Spirit of truth and the spirit of skepticism. The struggle
-between them, in my bosom, continued about a year, and was a source of
-great affliction to me. The Lord, through His Spirit, was trying to
-save me from error and darkness.
-</p>
-<p>I would advise all my young friends, and especially those who have had
-the testimony of the Spirit of truth, to never, by any act of theirs,
-invite the spirit of infidelity into their hearts, lest they fall away
-into darkness, and go down to death.
-</p>
-<p>I remained with Mr. Monroe nearly two years. I injured myself lifting a
-log, and it was evident that I could not again work at the blacksmith
-business for some time. For this reason I left Mr. Monroe, and went to
-visit Mr. J. P. Green, who lived in Watertown, about one hundred miles
-from Auburn, in Jefferson County.
-</p>
-<p>For sometime my health continued poor. One day I lay on a bed to rest
-where I could see the family in their ordinary occupations. All at
-once I heard the most beautiful music. I soon discovered from whence
-it came. Standing side by side, on the foot board of the beadstead on
-which I lay, were two beautiful, seraph-like beings, about the size
-of children seven or eight years old. They were dressed in white, and
-appeared surpassingly pure and heavenly. I felt certain that I was
-fully awake, and these juvenile personages were realistic to me. With
-their disappearance the music ceased. I turned and asked two of my
-sisters, who were in the room, if they had not heard the music. I was
-much surprised to learn that they had heard nothing.
-</p>
-
-
-<h2><a name="LCHAPTERII"></a>CHAPTER II
-</h2>
-<p class="chapterHeading">MARRIAGE&mdash;A VISION OF OTHER WORLDS&mdash;MY RELUCTANCE AT RETURNING TO
-A MORTAL EXISTENCE&mdash;A PROMISE WITH CONDITIONS&mdash;I EXHORT OTHERS TO
-FAITHFULNESS.
-</p>
-<p>While at Watertown, I married, and afterwards removed to Mendon, Monroe
-County. At this place I had a remarkable dream or vision. I fancied
-that I died. In a moment I was out of the body, and fully conscious
-that I had made the change. At once, a heavenly messenger, or guide,
-was by me. I thought and acted as naturally as I had done in the body,
-and all my sensations seemed as complete without as with it. The
-personage with me was dressed in the purest white. For a short time I
-remained in the room where my body lay. My sister Fanny (who was living
-with me when I had this dream) and my wife were weeping bitterly over my
-death. I sympathized with them deeply in their sorrow, and desired to
-comfort them. I realized that I was under the control of the man who
-was by me. I begged of him the privilege of speaking to them, but he
-said he could not grant it. My guide, for so I will call him, said "Now
-let us go."
-</p>
-<p>Space seemed annihilated. Apparently we went up, and almost instantly
-were in another world. It was of such magnitude that I formed no
-conception of its size. It was filled with innumerable hosts of beings,
-who seemed as naturally human as those among whom I had lived. With
-some I had been acquainted in the world I had just left. My guide
-informed me that those I saw had not yet arrived at their final abiding
-place. All kinds of people seemed mixed up promiscuously, as they are
-in this world. Their surroundings and manner indicated that they were
-in a state of expectation, and awaiting some event of considerable
-moment to them.
-</p>
-<p>As we went on from this place, my guide said, "I will now show you the
-condition of the damned." Pointing with his hand, he said, "Look!"
-</p>
-<p>I looked down a distance which appeared incomprehensible to me. I
-gazed on a vast region filled with multitudes of beings. I could see
-everything with the most minute distinctness. The multitude of people
-I saw were miserable in the extreme. "These," said my guide, "are they
-who have rejected the means of salvation, that were placed within their
-reach, and have brought upon themselves the condemnation you behold."
-</p>
-<p>The expression of the countenances of these sufferers was clear and
-distinct. They indicated extreme remorse, sorrow and dejection. They
-appeared conscious that none but themselves were to blame for their
-forlorn condition.
-</p>
-<p>This scene affected me much, and I could not refrain from weeping.
-</p>
-<p>Again my guide said, "Now let us go."
-</p>
-<p>In a moment we were at the gate of a beautiful city. A porter opened it
-and we passed in. The city was grand and beautiful beyond anything that
-I can describe. It was clothed in the purest light, brilliant but not
-glaring or unpleasant.
-</p>
-<p>The people, men and women, in their employments and surroundings,
-seemed contented and happy. I knew those I met without being told who
-they were. Jesus and the ancient apostles were there. I saw and spoke
-with the apostle Paul.
-</p>
-<p>My guide would not permit me to pause much by the way, but rather
-hurried me on through this place to another still higher but connected
-with it. It was still more beautiful and glorious than anything I had
-before seen. To me its extent and magnificence were incomprehensible.
-</p>
-<p>My guide pointed to a mansion which excelled everything else in
-perfection and beauty. It was clothed with fire and intense light. It
-appeared a fountain of light, throwing brilliant scintillations of
-glory all around it, and I could conceive of no limit to which these
-emanations extended. Said my guide, "That is where God resides." He
-permitted me to enter this glorious city but a short distance. Without
-speaking, he motioned that we would retrace our steps.
-</p>
-<p>We were soon in the adjoining city. There I met my mother, and a sister
-who died when six or seven years old. These I knew at sight without an
-introduction.
-</p>
-<p>After mingling with the pure and happy beings of this place a short
-time, my guide said again, "Let us go."
-</p>
-<p>We were soon through the gate by which we had entered the city. My
-guide then said, "Now we will return."
-</p>
-<p>I could distinctly see the world from which we had first come. It
-appeared to be a vast distance below us. To me, it looked cloudy,
-dreary and dark. I was filled with sad disappointment, I might say
-horror, at the idea of returning there. I supposed I had come to stay
-in that heavenly place, which I had so long desired to see; up to this
-time, the thought had not occurred to me that I would be required to
-return.
-</p>
-<p>I plead with my guide to let me remain. He replied that I was permitted
-to only visit these heavenly cities, for I had not filled my mission
-in yonder world; therefore I must return and take my body. If I was
-faithful to the grace of God which would be imparted to me, if I
-would bear a faithful testimony to the inhabitants of the earth of a
-sacrificed and risen Savior, and His atonement for man, in a little
-time I should be permitted to return and remain.
-</p>
-<p>These words gave me comfort and inspired my bosom with the principle
-of faith. To me, these things were real. I felt that a great mission
-had been given me, and I accepted it in my heart. The responsibility of
-that mission has rested on me from that time until now.
-</p>
-<p>We returned to my house. There I found my body, and it appeared to me
-dressed for burial. It was with great reluctance that I took possession
-of it to resume the ordinary avocations of life, and endeavor to fill
-the important mission I had received. I awoke and found myself in my
-bed. I lay and meditated the remainder of the night on what had been
-shown me.
-</p>
-<p>Call it a dream, or vision, or what I may, what I saw was as real to
-every sense of my being as anything I have passed through. The memory
-of it is clear and distinct with me to-day, after the lapse of fifty
-years with its many changes.
-</p>
-<p>From that time, although belonging to no church, the Spirit was with
-me to testify to the sufferings and atonement of the Savior. As I had
-opportunity, I continually exhorted the people, in public and private,
-to exercise faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, to repent of their sins and
-live a life of righteousness and good works.
-</p>
-
-
-<h2><a name="LCHAPTERIII"></a>CHAPTER III.
-</h2>
-<p class="chapterHeading">I TAKE TO PREACHING&mdash;MAKE MANY CONVERTS&mdash;REFUSE TO BAPTIZE
-THEM&mdash;THEY ARE BAPTIZED BY A CAMPBELLITE PREACHER&mdash;URGED TO JOIN THE
-CAMPBELLITES&mdash;REFUSE, AND THE DEVIL TEMPTS ME&mdash;I GRIEVE THE SPIRIT,
-BUT REGAIN IT THROUGH FASTING AND PRAYER&mdash;HEAR THE GOSPEL&mdash;VISIT FROM
-ELDER GIFFORD&mdash;HE IS THREATENED WITH TAR AND FEATHERS&mdash;MY BROTHER AND I
-DEFEND HIM.
-</p>
-<p>In the fall of 1828, I returned to Hector, Schuyler County, New York.
-Quite a number of people lived there of the Campbellite faith. 'Squire
-Chase, a prominent man in the neighborhood, who had been a preacher of
-the sect, said that they were cold in religion and had not held any
-meetings for several months. I had been there but a few days, when I
-went with him about two miles to a Methodist meeting. This occurred in
-the month of November.
-</p>
-<p>Up to this time I had joined no church, although I had professed
-religion, attended meetings, and preached when I had an opportunity.
-</p>
-<p>On my return, I remarked to Mr. Chase, "Why cannot we have meetings in
-our neighborhood as well as to go so far to them?"
-</p>
-<p>He replied, "We are all dead there; we would have meetings but I do not
-feel like preaching. But if you will do the preaching, I will appoint a
-meeting."
-</p>
-<p>He did so. The first two meetings but few attended. The third meeting
-the house was crowded. Finally, meetings were held nearly every night
-in the week, and were well attended. A reformation started among
-the people, and there were quite a number of religious converts.
-Campbellite principles had long prevailed in the neighborhood. The
-converts desired baptism, as that was a prominent principle in the
-Campbellite faith. Mr. Chase urged me to perform the ordinance. I
-excused myself by telling him that I had never joined any religious
-denomination, and did not feel authorized to administer it. I finally
-utterly refused to do so. He then sent forty or fifty miles for Elder
-Brown, a regular Campbellite preacher.
-</p>
-<p>He came and baptized about sixty converts and organized a branch of the
-Campbellite church out of the fruits of my labors. He quite exhausted
-his persuasive powers to induce me to join the Campbellite church, to
-take a circuit and go to preaching.
-</p>
-<p>I told him I would not preach his doctrines. If I preached at all, I
-should preach the whole Bible as I understood it.
-</p>
-<p>He said I could do so, for he did not think I would preach anything
-wrong.
-</p>
-<p>A spirit worked with me to do all the good I could, but not to join any
-religious denomination. It prevailed within me against all temptation
-this time. Perhaps the guardian angel, promised by my mother, watched
-over my spiritual as well as temporal welfare.
-</p>
-<p>I think, at the time of this reformation, I had as much of the Spirit
-of the Lord with me as I could well enjoy in my ignorance of the gospel
-in its purity. I was full of the testimony of the truth as I understood
-it.
-</p>
-<p>This reformation in Hector, was a means of temptation to me. I had
-preached and labored with my might to lead the people to the truth, and
-Elder Brown had stepped in and reaped the results of my labors. Because
-I would not join the Campbellite church and preach for them, I was
-entirely thrown aside. The adversary would reason with me thus: "What
-is the use of all your preaching? It does not amount to anything to
-you. You had better attend to your own business and let such nonsense
-alone."
-</p>
-<p>I listened to these suggestions until I had grieved the Spirit of the
-Lord which I had enjoyed. I no longer had the Spirit to pray or to
-exhort the people to lives of righteousness. I was in this condition
-for several months.
-</p>
-<p>In all this lethargy and darkness, I knew there was such a thing as joy
-in the Spirit of God&mdash;that in the testimony of Jesus there was light
-and peace. I knew I had accepted a mission to bear this testimony while
-I should remain on the earth.
-</p>
-<p>Knowing these things, I became, in time, alarmed at my condition, I
-feared that the Lord had forsaken me. I humbled myself before Him in
-fasting and prayer. I promised Him that if He would return His good
-Spirit, I would never again reject its suggestions.
-</p>
-<p>Matters continued thus with me for several weeks. In one of my seasons
-of prayer and supplication, I sensibly felt that I was again visited
-by the Holy Spirit. I was encouraged to resume my labors in exhorting
-the people whenever an opportunity was presented. I went from home on
-the Sabbath and held meetings in different places. I was employed in
-this way when I first saw the Book of Mormon, and when the gospel was
-preached to me.
-</p>
-<p>This, and other experiences, have convinced me that when we question
-the Holy Spirit it is likely to be grieved, and leave us to ourselves.
-Then will our darkness be greater than if we had never enjoyed its
-influences. Perhaps this incident in my life may suggest wisdom to
-others.
-</p>
-<p>In November, 1829, I removed to a place called Hector Hill. In
-February, 1831, my father, my brothers Joseph and Brigham, and Heber C.
-Kimball came to my house. They brought with them the Book of Mormon.
-They were on their way to visit some Saints in Pennsylvania. Through
-fear of being deceived, I was quite cautious in religious matters. I
-read and compared the Book of Mormon with the Bible, and fasted and
-prayed that I might come to a knowledge of the truth. The Spirit seemed
-to say, "This is the way; walk ye in it." This was all the testimony I
-could get at the time; it was not altogether satisfactory.
-</p>
-<p>The following May, Elder Levi Gifford came into the neighborhood, and
-desired to preach. My brother, John, belonged to the Methodist church,
-and had charge of their meeting house which was in the neighborhood.
-I obtained from him permission for Elder Gifford to preach in it. The
-appointment was circulated for a meeting the same evening.
-</p>
-<p>This was on Saturday evening, and the circuit preacher of that district
-was to hold a meeting there on Sunday. Elder Midbury, the circuit
-preacher, attended the meeting. The house was crowded. As soon as Elder
-Gifford had concluded his discourse, Elder Midbury arose to his feet
-and said: "Brethren, sisters and friends: I have been a preacher of the
-gospel for twenty-two years; I do not know that I have been the means
-of converting a sinner, or reclaiming a poor backslider; but this I do
-know, that the doctrine the stranger has preached to us to-night is
-a deception, that Joe Smith is a false prophet, and that the Book of
-Mormon is from hell."
-</p>
-<p>After talking awhile in this strain, he concluded. I immediately arose
-to my feet and asked the privilege of speaking, which was granted.
-I said that Elder Midbury, in his remarks, entirely ignored the
-possibility of more revelation, and acknowledged that he had been a
-preacher of the gospel for twenty-two years, without knowing that he
-had been the means of converting a sinner, or of reclaiming a poor
-backslider. But still he claimed to know that the doctrine he had just
-heard was false, that Joseph Smith was an impostor, and that the Book
-of Mormon was from hell. "Now, how is it possible," I asked, "for him
-to know these things unless he has received a revelation?"
-</p>
-<p>When I sat down a strong man, by the name of Thompson, who was well
-known in the neighborhood as a beligerent character, stepped up to
-Elder Gifford and demanded the proofs of the authenticity of the Book
-of Mormon.
-</p>
-<p>Elder Gifford replied, "I have said all I care about saying to-night."
-</p>
-<p>Then said Mr. Thompson, "we will take the privilege of clothing you
-with a coat of tar and feathers, and riding you out of town on a rail."
-</p>
-<p>In the meantime, four or five others of like character came to the
-front.
-</p>
-<p>Acting under the impulse of the moment&mdash;true to the instincts of my
-nature to protect the weak against the strong, I stepped between Elder
-Gifford and Mr. Thompson. Looking the latter in the eye, I said, "Mr.
-Thompson, you cannot lay your hand on this stranger to harm a hair of
-his head, without you do it over my dead body."
-</p>
-<p>He replied by mere threats of violence, which brought my brother John
-to his feet.
-</p>
-<p>With a voice and manner, that carried with it a power greater than I
-had ever seen manifested in him before, and, I might say, since, he
-commanded Mr. Thompson and party to take their seats. He continued,
-"Gentlemen, if you offer to lay a hand on Mr. Gifford, you shall pass
-through my hands, after which I think you will not want any more
-to-night." Mr. Thompson and party quieted down and then took their
-seats.
-</p>
-<p>Since then the Elders have passed through so many similar experiences,
-that they have ceased to be a novelty. That there should be such a
-powerful antagonism of spirits manifesting themselves in muscle, in a
-Christian church, indicated a new era in religious influences.
-</p>
-
-
-<h2><a name="LCHAPTERIV"></a>CHAPTER IV.
-</h2>
-<p class="chapterHeading">CONVERTED&mdash;START FOR MISSOURI&mdash;CALLED TO PREACH "MORMONISM" WITHOUT
-BEING BAPTIZED&mdash;JOIN THE CHURCH&mdash;VOYAGE TO PITTSBURG&mdash;PREACH THE
-GOSPEL AND ESTABLISH A BRANCH&mdash;EXPERIENCE AS A TRUNKMAKER&mdash;MISSION
-TO NEW YORK&mdash;SPEAK IN TONGUES EFFECTS OF PREACHING COUNTERACTED BY
-LIES&mdash;SECOND VOYAGE DOWN THE OHIO&mdash;PROVIDENTIAL DELAY.
-</p>
-<p>In the spring of 1831 there was a two-days meeting of the Saints, about
-six miles from where I lived, in the State of Pennsylvania. I attended
-it, and became fully convinced of the divine origin of the latter-day
-work.
-</p>
-<p>In the summer of 1831, I settled up my business and started for the
-latter-day Zion, in the State of Missouri. On my way out of the State
-of New York, I visited Elder J. P. Green, in the town of Avon.
-</p>
-<p>As I arrived there on Saturday, he said, "Brother Lorenzo, I am very
-glad you have come. I have an appointment to preach at 10 o'clock,
-eight miles from here, but I am very unwell and not able to fill it. I
-want you to do it for me."
-</p>
-<p>I rather ridiculed the idea, saying, "You want me to preach as a Mormon
-Elder, when I have not even joined the Church?"
-</p>
-<p>He still desired me to go, and said, "it will be all right."
-</p>
-<p>E. M. Green, the son of J. P. Green, accompanied me, with a revelation
-on the organization of the Church, which his father directed him to
-read to the congregation.
-</p>
-<p>Arriving at the place appointed, I found the house full, and a Baptist
-preacher in the stand. I introduced myself to the minister; he invited
-the congregation to sing, and I prayed, and E. M. Green read the
-revelation. I arose and commenced to speak. The good Spirit was with
-me, and I had much freedom. I talked about one hour and a quarter. At
-the close I gave any one the privilege of speaking who wished to. The
-Baptist minister arose and bore his testimony, that what they had heard
-was true Bible doctrine, and could not be questioned.
-</p>
-<p>After meeting, several persons gathered around me and wished to be
-baptized. Knowing that I had not received authority to administer the
-ordinance, I put them off, telling them that when Elder Green came
-to fill the next appointment that had been made for him, he would
-baptize them. Among those who requested baptism, at that time, were the
-brothers Joseph and Chandler Holbrook, and Mary Ann Angell, now the
-relict of President Brigham Young.
-</p>
-<p>On the following morning I told Elder Green that, inasmuch as I had
-believed in the gospel for some time, and had preached as a "Mormon"
-Elder, I thought it was time that I was baptized. He administered the
-ordinance, and ordained me an Elder. I then went on my way rejoicing.
-</p>
-<p>In due time I reached Olean Point, on the Alleghany river, one of the
-streams that form the head waters of the Ohio. Several families had
-gathered there with the view of descending the river in boats. Among
-them were my brother Phineas and his family. The company built two
-boats, and started down the Alleghany river, in the month of November.
-</p>
-<p>The river was low and falling. It was my lot, with others, nearly every
-morning to get into the water and work the boats off the sand bars upon
-which we anchored at night. The water was always cold, and at times the
-ice was half an inch thick. I had the whooping cough, and this work was
-very severe on me.
-</p>
-<p>We journeyed in this way for three weeks, to Pittsburg, at the head
-of the Ohio river. Three days before arriving there my wife was taken
-sick, and did not feel that she could travel any farther.
-</p>
-<p>Brother Phineas and I concluded to stop awhile in Pittsburg. We were
-destitute of money, having only fifty cents left between us. Soon after
-tying up our boat, a report got noised about that we were a party of
-"Mormons," on our way to Zion. Some of the ideas of the Saints in
-regard to gathering, although often stated erroneously, had obtained
-quite an extensive circulation in the country. Many of the people
-came to see us, and at first, stared as though beholding some great
-curiosity. My brother Phineas and I hired one room and moved into it.
-We retained one boat and the remainder of the company went on in the
-other.
-</p>
-<p>The way we traveled would now be thought a novel and hard way for the
-Saints to gather in these days of railroads. Fifty years have made many
-changes, The world is progressing.
-</p>
-<p>Some respectable-looking men inquired if there were any "Mormon"
-preachers in the company. We informed them that we were Elders. They
-expressed a wish that we would hold a meeting.
-</p>
-<p>We soon learned that Mr. Wm. Harris, of whom we had rented our room,
-had somewhere met one of our Elders, learned something of the gospel,
-and had been baptized. Up to that time he had made no open profession
-of having joined the Saints.
-</p>
-<p>There was a large room in the same house we had moved into. This
-Brother Harris offered us for holding meetings in. The first evening
-quite a goodly number gathered into it, and my brother Phineas and I
-talked to them. Before closing, we gave the privilege for any one to
-speak who wished to.
-</p>
-<p>An elderly lady arose and said she had been seeking for the truth
-many years, and that she had read the Bible through from Genesis to
-Revelations fourteen times, with a prayerful heart, that she might come
-to a knowledge of the truth. She testified that what she had just heard
-was the first gospel discourse she had ever heard in her life. Almost
-in the words of the eunuch to Phillip, she said: "Here is water, what
-hinders me from being baptized?"
-</p>
-<p>The house stood on the bank of the Alleghany river. The night was dark,
-and we thought it dangerous to try to baptize her.
-</p>
-<p>She called to our minds the case of the jailor, who was baptized in the
-self-same hour in which he believed.
-</p>
-<p>We obtained a lantern and went to the bank of the river, the people
-following us. We found the bank steep and the water somewhat deep; but
-my brother, Phineas held on to me while I baptized the woman.
-</p>
-<p>We continued to hold meetings and baptize until over thirty persons had
-united with the Church.
-</p>
-<p>We had authority to preach, baptize and confirm, but we had no
-knowledge of the organization of the Church, and knew not how to
-organize a branch. In the following winter, of 1831-32, Elder Sidney
-Rigdon passed through Pittsburg, and gave us instructions concerning
-the organization of the Church. We then organized a branch, and
-continued our meetings.
-</p>
-<p>After events have passed, we often see in them a providence leading
-to important results. We left our homes in the State of New York for
-Missouri, the only objective point in which we felt any interest.
-A seeming chance of sickness induced us to stop for a season in
-Pittsburg. There we found a people ready to receive the truth. We
-preached the gospel, and built up a branch of the Church. We were
-evidently led there for the accomplishment of this important work.
-</p>
-<p>As will be seen, we subsequently went to Kirtland, instead of going on
-west. But before going to Kirtland, there was yet another place where
-we were to preach the gospel.
-</p>
-<p>As before stated, on our arrival in Pittsburg our finances were low.
-Brother Phineas soon obtained labor. I was not so successful, I walked
-the streets of the town day after day, in search of a job, willing to
-accept of anything I could possibly do. Finally I met a man who gave me
-some encouragement. Said he, "Are you a mechanic?"
-</p>
-<p>I felt constrained to answer "yes," although I could not really lay
-much claim to the profession.
-</p>
-<p>"Well, said he, I want twelve dozen steamboat trunks made."
-</p>
-<p>I replied, "I am your man, but I am traveling. I have stopped here on
-account of sickness in my family, and have no tools with me, and no
-place to work." He assured me that he had shop, tools and everything
-necessary to work with. We went at once to his shop.
-</p>
-<p>I really did not know what a steamboat trunk was. I told him that I
-was from the Eastern States, where probably they worked different to
-what they did in that country, and I should feel much obliged if he
-would lay out a trunk for me, that I might make no mistake. He picked
-up a wide board, laid it on a bench, and with square and compass soon
-laid out a trunk. "There," said he, "that is the way I do it; but if
-it don't suit you, do it as you have a mind to," and he walked out of
-the shop. Food and comforts for my family were at stake. I knelt down
-and asked the Lord to enable me to do the work in an acceptable manner,
-and I arose and went to work with a light heart. I got the bodies of
-several trunks together that day. Towards evening my employer came
-in, examined my work carefully, and said, "That is good enough. If
-you will do them all as well as that, it will do." I put together the
-twelve dozen trunks, covered and finished them off to my employer's
-satisfaction, and he paid me the money.
-</p>
-<p>For that kindly providence I felt thankful. From that time I found
-labor and soon made my family quite comfortable.
-</p>
-<p>In the spring of 1832, it was thought best that I should go on a
-mission to the State of New York. I spent the summer in preaching the
-gospel. I had joy in my labors, being instrumental in bringing many
-into the Church.
-</p>
-<p>I visited the town of Hector, where, by my preaching, as before stated,
-a Campbellite church had been organized. I preached in the same house
-that I had occupied on the previous occasion. Soon after I commenced to
-talk, such a spirit of darkness and opposition prevailed in the house,
-that for the first and only time in my life, I was entirely bound.
-I stood speechless. The congregation looked at me as if wondering
-what could be the matter. A sensation such as I had never felt before
-came over me. My tongue seemed numb or paralyzed. In a short time I
-commenced to speak in an unknown tongue. I probably spoke about fifteen
-minutes. Soon after ceasing to talk, the interpretation came clear and
-distinct to my mind. I at once gave it to the congregation.
-</p>
-<p>I had no further difficulty. I talked about an hour. My old friend,
-Squire Chase, arose and testified that what he had heard was the truth,
-and that the power of God had been made manifest. He and several others
-shed tears. Their hearts were softened by the influence of the good
-Spirit.
-</p>
-<p>I had some prior engagements to meet at a considerable distance from
-Hector. These would keep me away about two weeks. I regretted the
-necessity of going away, and left an appointment for another meeting
-on my return. I indulged in the hope of establishing a branch of the
-Church there.
-</p>
-<p>While I was absent, the Elder Brown, who had organized a Campbellite
-Church from converts made by my preaching, heard that I was preaching
-"Mormonism." He came there, held meetings and visited from house to
-house. He repeated to the people all the extravagant stories and
-falsehoods about the Prophet Joseph and the Book of Mormon, which were
-so extensively circulated in those early times. When I returned, I
-found the minds of the people filled with prejudice and bitterness. The
-Spirit manifested to me that more preaching to them would be in vain,
-and I went away sorrowing. I have not heard since that any of that
-people have ever joined the Church.
-</p>
-<p>I went to Avon, Genesee County, to see my father, John Young. He
-desired to go west and see the Prophet. His wife, my stepmother,
-preferred to remain with her children.
-</p>
-<p>He had previously sold out his property in the town of Mendon for
-several hundred dollars, and had used it to supply the wants of
-the Elders. He had served as a soldier during three campaigns of
-the revolutionary war. About this time, he received a pension from
-the government. This furnished him the means of accompanying me to
-Pittsburg. On arriving there, my brother Phineas and I bought a family
-boat, in which we went twenty-five miles down the Ohio River. My wife
-was again so sick that we felt compelled to stop at Beardstown.
-</p>
-<p>The people came to see us, and soon learned that we were "Mormons."
-They expressed a wish that we would preach to them. The following day
-being Sunday, we consented to do so if they would furnish a house. Mr.
-Isaac Hill, since Bishop for several years of the 2nd Ward of Salt Lake
-City, was then a citizen of that place. Through his kindly offices the
-school house was opened for us.
-</p>
-<p>After the first meeting, the people desired more. In a few days we
-baptized five persons, among them Mr. Hill and Peter Shirts. The latter
-is well known to many of the people of Utah.
-</p>
-<p>In a short time, my brother Phineas went to Kirtland with our father.
-The Saints desired that I should remain at Beardstown, and I concluded
-to spend the winter there. Some of my friends, thinking that I might
-get work easier at West Union, five miles from Beardstown, I removed
-then. There, although my way at first seemed hedged up, I succeeded
-in making my family comfortable through the winter. Again we had been
-providentially directed to where there were a few ready to receive the
-truth.
-</p>
-
-
-<h2><a name="LCHAPTERV"></a>CHAPTER V.
-</h2>
-<p class="chapterHeading">REMOVAL TO KIRTLAND&mdash;WORK UPON THE TEMPLE&mdash;A
-LESSON&mdash;SICKNESS&mdash;PRONOUNCED INCURABLE BY DOCTORS&mdash;HEALED IN ANSWER
-TO PRAYER&mdash;CURED OF LAMENESS&mdash;REMOVAL TO MISSOURI&mdash;COMMENCEMENT OF
-HOSTILITIES&mdash;SURROUNDED BY A MOB&mdash;FACE DEATH&mdash;RESCUED.
-</p>
-<p>In March, 1833, I removed to Kirtland. The Kirtland Temple committee
-was appointed June 6th, 1833. About that time, I took with my team
-Brothers Hyrum and Joseph Smith, Reynolds Cahoon and my brother
-Brigham, to look at a stone quarry, and see if the rock was suitable
-for the walls of the temple. It was decided that it would do, and a
-part of a load was put on the wagon. We all returned to town, and the
-rock was unloaded on the temple ground. As near as I recollect, this
-was the first rock hauled for that building.
-</p>
-<p>From that time I worked with the brethren, as occasion required, until
-the temple was completed. On the 17th of February, 1834, those holding
-the Priesthood were called together to organize a High Council. I was
-one of the number. On that occasion I committed a great error. That
-it may be a lesson for others, is my reason for relating it here. The
-Prophet requested me to take a seat with other brethren who had been
-selected for this Council.
-</p>
-<p>Instead of doing as requested, I arose and plead my inability to
-fill so responsible a position, manifesting, I think, considerable
-earnestness in the matter. The Prophet then said that he really desired
-that I should take the place.
-</p>
-<p>Still excusing myself, he appointed another to fill it. I think this
-was the reason the Prophet never again called me to fill any important
-position in the Priesthood during his life.
-</p>
-<p>I have since learned to go where I am called, and not set up my
-judgment against that of those who are called to lead in this kingdom.
-</p>
-<p>When the temple was enclosed, in a meeting of the brethren, called to
-consult about its completion, the Prophet desired that a hard finish
-be put on its outside walls. None of the masons who had worked on the
-building knew how to do it. Looking around on the brethren, his eyes
-rested upon me; he said, "Brother Lorenzo. I want you to take hold and
-get this finish on the walls. Will you do it?"
-</p>
-<p>"Yes;" I replied; "I will try." The following day, with horse and buggy
-I went to Cleveland, twenty-two miles, determined, if possible, to
-find a man who understood the business of putting a hard finish on the
-walls. I had been there but a short time, inquiring after such a man,
-when I met a young man who said he understood the business, had just
-completed a job, and wanted another. I employed him at once, put him
-and his tools into the buggy, and returned to Kirtland.
-</p>
-<p>We soon had the materials and fixtures on hand to make the mortar. In a
-short time the finish was being put upon the walls.
-</p>
-<p>I made a suitable tool and, before the mortar was dry, I marked off the
-walls into blocks in imitation of regular stone work. When the finish
-was on I commenced penciling.
-</p>
-<p>It was then the last of November, and the weather daily grew colder. A
-Brother Stillman assisted me a day or two, but said that he could not
-stand the cold, and quit the work.
-</p>
-<p>I continued, day after day, determined, if possible, to complete the
-job. When I got badly chilled I went into my house, warmed myself and
-returned again to the work.
-</p>
-<p>I completed the task in the fore part of December, but was sick the
-last two days. I had caught a bad cold, had a very severe cough, and,
-in a few days was confined to my bed.
-</p>
-<p>My disease was pronounced to be the quick consumption. I sank rapidly
-for six or seven weeks. For two weeks I was unable to talk. Dr.
-Williams, one of the brethren, came to see me, and, considering my case
-a bad one, came the next day and brought with him Dr. Seely, an old
-practicing physician, and another doctor whose name I have forgotten.
-They passed me through an examination. Dr. Seely asserted that I had
-not as much lungs left as would fill a tea saucer. He appeared a
-somewhat rough, irreligious man. Probably, with what he considered a
-good-natured fling at our belief in miracles, he said to my father, as
-he left the house:
-</p>
-<p>"Mr. Young, unless the Lord makes your son a new pair of lungs, there
-is no hope for him!"
-</p>
-<p>At this time I was so low and nervous that I could scarcely bear any
-noise in the room. The next morning after the visit of the doctors, my
-father came to the door of the room to see how I was. I recollect his
-gazing earnestly at me with tears in his eyes. As I afterwards learned,
-he went from there to the Prophet Joseph, and said to him: "My son
-Lorenzo is dying; can there not be something done for him?"
-</p>
-<p>The Prophet studied a little while, and replied, "Yes! Of necessity, I
-must go away to fill an appointment, which I cannot put off. But you go
-and get my brother Hyrum, and, with him, get together twelve or fifteen
-good faithful brethren; go to the house of Brother Lorenzo, and all
-join in prayer. One be mouth and the others repeat after him in unison.
-After prayer, divide into quorums of three. Let the first quorum who
-administer, anoint Brother Young with oil; then lay hands on him, one
-being mouth and the other two repeating in unison after him. When all
-the quorums have, in succession, laid their hands on Brother Young and
-prayed for him, begin again with the first quorum, by anointing with
-oil as before, continuing the administration in this way until you
-receive a testimony that he will be restored."
-</p>
-<p>My father came with the brethren, and these instructions were strictly
-followed. The administrations were continued until it came the turn of
-the first quorum the third time. Brother Hyrum Smith led. The Spirit
-rested mightily upon him. He was full of blessing and prophecy. Among
-other things, he said that I should live to go with the Saints into the
-bosom of the Rocky Mountains, to build up a place there, and that my
-cellar should overflow with wine and fatness.
-</p>
-<p>At that time, I had not heard about the Saints going to the Rocky
-Mountains; possibly Brother Smith had. After he had finished he
-seemed surprised at some things he had said, and wondered at
-the manifestations of the Spirit. I coughed no more after that
-administration, and rapidly recovered.
-</p>
-<p>I had been pronounced by the best physicians in the country past all
-human aid, and I am a living witness of the power of God manifested in
-my behalf through the administration of the Elders.
-</p>
-<p>I continued to live in Kirtland, labored for the support of my family
-and went on missions until September, 1837. At that time there was
-considerable persecution, and many Saints left for Missouri. In company
-with Brother Isaac Decker and family, I started for that place.
-</p>
-<p>On account of sickness in my family, I laid by at Dublin, Indiana. I
-remained there until January, 1838.
-</p>
-<p>I went to Cincinnati. While absent, my brother Brigham, and Brothers
-Joseph and Samuel Smith, with their families, came along on their way
-to Missouri. They were accompanied by Brother Daniel Holman and Brother
-Miles. I returned to Dublin, and, in February, we continued our journey
-together.
-</p>
-<p>On the way, in jumping from a wagon, I fell and split my knee pan on a
-sharp stone. The injury was both painful and dangerous.
-</p>
-<p>Riding over rough roads in a loaded wagon was very painful to me. At
-Terre Haute, Indiana, my leg was examined by a surgeon. He said even if
-I got well, my leg would always be stiff. However, my faith was that I
-should again have the use of it. It was still over four hundred miles
-to our destination. I suffered much, but got the use of my leg the
-following summer. I attribute this result to the blessing of the Lord
-through the administration of the Elders.
-</p>
-<p>On our way, we crossed the Mississippi river at Quincy, Illinois, on
-the ice. We were the last to cross in that way that season. When near
-the west side, on account of the weakness of the ice, we took the
-horses from the wagons and laid down planks to run the latter to the
-shore.
-</p>
-<p>In March, Brother Isaac Decker and I arrived in Davis County, Missouri.
-I purchased a quarter section of land and went to work to make me a
-home. Brother Decker rented a farm. The remainder of the company went
-on to Far West, twenty-two miles farther.
-</p>
-<p>We labored diligently at our business during the summer, usually having
-meetings on the Sabbath. Matters remained quiet until election day,
-August 6th, 1838, when the Missourians determined that the "Mormons"
-should not vote. On the other hand, the brethren asserted their rights,
-and a fight took place at Gallatin, as related in Church history. I
-did not feel like attending election, and did not go. This was the
-beginning of our troubles in Davis County.
-</p>
-<p>I lived eighteen miles from Adam Ondi-Ahman. About this time, I left
-my family on my place and went there and stood guard some two weeks.
-Brother Decker accompanied me. After completing our term of military
-service, Brother Decker and I started for home. We had but one horse,
-and we alternately rode and walked. As we passed through the town of
-Gallatin, about eight miles from home, it was my turn to walk, and
-Brother Decker was ahead of me on the horse. There was a company of
-Missourians stationed about twenty rods from the road, near a whisky
-saloon. As I was passing nearly opposite them, a party of men stepped
-in front of me and the leader ordered me to stop. He was armed with a
-sword. There were twenty-two of the party, mostly armed with rifles.
-</p>
-<p>Nothing was said to Brother Decker, although he halted and sat on his
-horse a short distance off and watched the proceedings.
-</p>
-<p>The captain of the party asked me where I had been, where I was going,
-and if I was a "Mormon," with many other questions which I answered
-truthfully.
-</p>
-<p>After answering one of his questions, with a profane epithet he called
-me a liar. After this, I kept my mouth closed and answered no more of
-his questions. He was about half drunk, as were probably some of his
-men. He became much irritated at my silence, and used very profane and
-abusive language. Said he: "You have probably been robbing and burning
-in this section, and ought to be killed. Anyhow, I will make you open
-your mouth." He then ordered his men to form in a half circle a little
-distance from me, evidently to concentrate their fire. He then ordered
-them to "Make ready! Aim!"
-</p>
-<p>Every rifle was drawn on me. I prayed in my heart, and felt
-considerable assurance that they would not be permitted to kill me. My
-life trembled in the balance awaiting the leader's order to fire, or
-recover arms. The latter order came. He then said excitedly: "Now will
-you talk?" But I remained silent.
-</p>
-<p>This performance was repeated. He became filled with wrath, and
-commanded his men, the third time, "Make ready! Aim!" It looked surely
-as though my time had come. At this moment, a man in military garb, and
-armed with a sword, came running from the camp near the grocery. When
-near enough to to be heard, he cried out, "Hold on!"
-</p>
-<p>The men dropped their pieces, and there was respite for me again. As he
-approached he demanded, "What are you doing?"
-</p>
-<p>The officer who had been abusing me, replied with a profane epithet, "I
-am going to kill this Mormon!"
-</p>
-<p>The other officer ordered him to take his men to the camp.
-</p>
-<p>As he did not move readily, his superior drew his sword, stepped in
-front of him, and declared with an oath, if he did not move at once he
-would take his head from his shoulders. His tone and manner indicated
-that he meant business, and the captain moved off with his men at once.
-</p>
-<p>The officer who released me, declared that the other was drunk and did
-not know what he was doing. He asked me many questions similar to what
-the other had done, but in a gentlemanly manner, and I answered them
-frankly and truly. His heart was softened towards me. He bade me go on
-my way, and added, "Mr. Young if you are ever in trouble in this war,
-and can do so, send for me, and you shall not be hurt, unless it is
-over my dead body." I made a memorandum of his name, military title,
-etc., but regret to say that in my many moves since have lost it.
-</p>
-<p>Again was the prophetic promise of my mother fulfilled, and my life
-lengthened out for some wise purpose. Brother Decker and I went on
-home. He immediately removed to Far West, Caldwell County.
-</p>
-
-
-<h2><a name="LCHAPTERVI"></a>CHAPTER VI.
-</h2>
-<p class="chapterHeading">WARNED TO LEAVE THE COUNTRY OR RENOUNCE "MORMONISM"&mdash;WIFE AND CHILDREN
-THREATENED&mdash;A BOY'S PLUCK&mdash;FORCED TO FLEE FOR OUR LIVES&mdash;PROPERTY
-CONFISCATED&mdash;BATTLE OF CROOKED RIVER&mdash;PROVIDENTIALLY SAVED&mdash;FAR WEST
-BESIEGED&mdash;ESCAPE TO IOWA&mdash;PURSUED&mdash;PROVIDENTIAL SNOW STORM.
-</p>
-<p>In a day or two after my return home, Mr. Richard Welding, of whom I
-had bought my farm, came to me, accompanied by three or four others. He
-gave me warning to leave the country at once.
-</p>
-<p>I asked him why I must leave, saying: "Have I not bought my land, and
-paid you for it? Have I not attended to my own business?"
-</p>
-<p>He replied: "Mr. Young, we do not want you to leave. You are a good
-neighbor and citizen, and if you will only be man enough to renounce
-Joe Smith and your religion, we want you to remain with us, and I will
-protect you in your rights. The Mormons must all leave the country, and
-if you do not renounce them, you must go too."
-</p>
-<p>I paid no attention to this warning.
-</p>
-<p>Three or four days after this occurrence, four men rode up in front of
-my house, when I happened to be away, called Sister Young to the door,
-and again gave warning that we had better leave.
-</p>
-<p>By her side stood our little boy, Joseph W. One of the men, using an
-oath, ordered him to go into the house or he would blow his brains out.
-The boy stepped back, without his mother noticing what he was doing,
-took my rifle, which was standing in the room, and, before he had
-attracted her attention, was leveling it on the threatener. She quietly
-told him not to fire, as they would certainly be killed if he did.
-</p>
-<p>He obeyed, but manifested considerable beligerency for one of his age.
-</p>
-<p>About five days after this warning, early in the morning, I looked up
-the road towards Gallatin, and saw a man on horseback coming towards my
-house at full speed. As he rode up he inquired: "Is your name Young?"
-</p>
-<p>I answered that it was.
-</p>
-<p>He continued: "I have rode from Gallatin to inform you that, in two or
-three hours, there will be a company of forty men here, who assert that
-if they find you here, they will fasten you and your family in your
-house and burn it down. For God's sake, if you value your own life and
-the lives of your wife and children, do not be here an hour from now. I
-have come to give you this warning as a friend. Should it be found out
-that I have done so, I might lose my own life!"
-</p>
-<p>I thanked him for his kindness, and he rode off rapidly towards
-Gallatin. I told Sister Young to prepare to leave at once, then
-attached my team to a light spring wagon, put a bed, a few cooking
-utensils, a trunk of clothing, and some food for the day into it. I got
-my wife, my four children, William, Harriet, Joseph and John into the
-wagon, fastened up the house and started for Far West.
-</p>
-<p>I expected to return and get my goods. The next day I obtained some
-teams and started for my goods. I found the road strongly guarded, and
-the Missourians threatened to kill me if I went on. I never obtained
-goods, cows nor anything that I had left on my place.
-</p>
-<p>This left my family very destitute, in common with others of the Saints
-who had been treated in like manner.
-</p>
-<p>I had previously driven a fine yoke of oxen and a new milch cow to Far
-West, thinking I might possibly want to remove there; but Clark's army
-drove my oxen into camp and butchered them for beef. I was promised pay
-for them, but, of course, never received anything but the promise.
-</p>
-<p>This was in October, 1838. I remained in Far West doing whatever was
-necessary for the protection of the Saints. I was on guard much of the
-time.
-</p>
-<p>Major Seymour Brunson directed Brother A. P. Rockwood, and myself to
-take our horses and go out two miles north of Far West and patrol the
-country every night. If we saw a man, or company of men coming towards
-Far West, we were ordered to hail them and demand the countersign. If
-necessary, to make this demand the second time, when, if not given, we
-were to fire on them. When we arrived on the ground where we were to
-perform our duties, Brother Rockwood and I separated, taking different
-directions. It was a moonlight night. I was on the edge of a prairie
-with my eye along the road, when I discovered a company of mounted men
-coming over a swell of the prairie. I retired into the timber and took
-a station behind the trunk of a large tree, under the shadow of its
-branches, and twenty or thirty yards from the road. As the company came
-opposite to me, I demanded the countersign twice, as I had been ordered
-to do. As they paid no attention to me, I made ready to fire, intending
-to shoot the leader, when a strong and sudden impression came over me
-to hail again. I did so, and ordered them to halt. This time the leader
-recognized my voice, and turning towards me, asked: "Is that you,
-Brother Lorenzo?" I also recognized the man as Brother Lyman Wight,
-and, as I answered in the affirmative, rode up to his side. We were
-glad to meet each other, and I was very thankful that I had not obeyed
-orders. He was on his way from Diamond to Far West, with a company of
-men to assist the Saints there.
-</p>
-<p>Soon after this occurrence, I returned to Far West. I told Sister Young
-that I hoped to get one good night's sleep. For three weeks I had not
-had my clothes off to lay down, and I felt much worn.
-</p>
-<p>Perhaps I had slept two hours, when I was awakened by the bass drum
-sounding an alarm on the public square. I was soon out to see what was
-the matter. There were five men on the square, of whom I inquired the
-cause of the alarm. They informed me that two of the brethren had been
-taken prisoners by the mob on Crooked River, tried by a court martial
-that day, and condemned to be shot the coming morning at eight o'clock.
-A company of men was wanted to go and rescue them.
-</p>
-<p>Preparations were soon made, and in a short time, about 40 mounted men,
-under the command of David W. Patten, were ready to start. We kept
-the road to a ford on Crooked River, twenty miles distant, where we
-expected to find the mob.
-</p>
-<p>Just as the day was breaking we dismounted, about a mile from the ford,
-tied our horses, and left Brother Isaac Decker to watch them.
-</p>
-<p>We marched down the road some distance, when we heard the crack of
-a rifle. Brother Obanion, who was one step in advance of me fell. I
-assisted brother John P. Green, who was the captain of the platoon I
-belonged to, to carry him to the side of the road. We asked the Lord to
-preserve his life, laid him down, ran on and took our places again.
-</p>
-<p>The man who shot Brother Obanion was a picket guard of the mob, who was
-secreted in ambush by the roadside. Captain Patten was ahead of the
-company.
-</p>
-<p>As we neared the river the firing was somewhat lively. Captain Patten
-turned to the left of the road, with a part of the command; Captain
-Green and others turned to the right.
-</p>
-<p>We were ordered to charge, which we did, to the bank of the river, when
-the enemy broke and fled.
-</p>
-<p>I snapped my gun twice at a man in a white blanket coat. While engaged
-in repriming my gun, he got out of range.
-</p>
-<p>A tall, powerful, Missourian sprang from under the bank of the river,
-and, with a heavy sword in hand, rushed towards one of the brethren,
-crying out, "Run, you devils, or die!"
-</p>
-<p>The man he was making for was also armed with a sword, but was small
-and poorly calculated to withstand the heavy blows of the Missourian.
-He, however, succeeded in defend-himself until I ran to his aid, and
-leveled my gun within two feet of his enemy, but it missed fire.
-</p>
-<p>The Missourian turned on me. With nothing but the muzzle end of my
-rifle to parry his rapid blows, my situation was perilous. The man
-whom I had relieved, for some reason, did not come to the rescue. I
-succeeded in parrying the blows of my enemy until he backed me to
-the bank of the river. I could back no farther without going off the
-perpendicular bank, eight or ten feet above the water. In a moment I
-realized that my chances were very desperate. At this juncture the
-Missourian raised his sword, apparently throwing all his strength and
-energy into the act, as if intending to crush me with one desperate
-blow.
-</p>
-<p>As his arm extended I saw a hand pass down the back of his head and
-between his shoulders. There was no other person visible, and I have
-always believed that I saw the hand of the angel of the Lord interposed
-for my deliverance. The arm of my enemy was paralyzed, and I had time
-to extricate myself from the perilous situation I was in.
-</p>
-<p>As soon as I had time to think, I felt that the inspiration of my
-mother's promise had been again verified. The appearance of the hand,
-to me, was real. I do not see how I could have been saved in the way I
-was, without a providential interference.
-</p>
-<p>As soon as I was out of danger, my attention was drawn to brother David
-W. Patten, who lay on the ground a short distance from me, mortally
-wounded. We hitched a pair of horses to a wagon, put brother Patten and
-six other wounded men into it, and started for Far West.
-</p>
-<p>A few miles from the battle ground we met the Prophet Joseph, with a
-carriage and a company of horsemen. The wounded were taken to their
-homes, and such care given them as circumstances would allow.
-</p>
-<p>Soon after our return to Far West, General Clark's army arrived before
-that city. In the evening after Joseph and Hyrum Smith and others had
-been taken prisoners, Hyrum Smith had the privilege of coming into Far
-West to see his family. From the spirit of General Clark and his army,
-he believed that, if they succeeded in taking the brethren who were
-in the Crooked River battle, they would be tried by a court martial
-and shot. He and Brother Brigham, and myself met on the public square.
-After counseling over the matter, it was decided that I, and others in
-the same situation, should start that night into the wilderness north,
-for the Des Moines River, in Iowa Territory. My brother, Phineas, being
-a good woodsman, was selected to pilot us.
-</p>
-<p>The Saints in Far West had been so plundered by their enemies, that
-they had but little surplus to eat or wear.
-</p>
-<p>I had on a very thin pair of pants. My wife took a sheet from the bed,
-and, with the assistance of some of the neighbors, hastily made me a
-pair of drawers. These I afterwards gave to my brother Phineas, as he
-seemed to suffer more with the cold than I did. Our bedding was as
-scanty as our clothing.
-</p>
-<p>We left Far West that night, and took no food with us. We arrived about
-sunrise in the morning, at Adam-Ondi-Ahman, twenty-two miles from Far
-West. We needed some breakfast, and stopped in a clump of hazel brush,
-and sent one of the party to the house of Brother Gardiner Snow, to
-tell him our situation. He said he had not much to eat, but would do
-the best he could. He brought us a very good supply of stewed Missouri
-pumpkin and milk. Our keen appetites made this seem a very good
-breakfast.
-</p>
-<p>There we obtained fifty pounds of chopped corn. With this meagre
-supply of food we continued on our journey. From the first, it was
-evident that we must be very saving of our food supply. We rationed
-on eight ounces of this meal, per man, each day. It was mixed with
-water, without any salt, baked in a cake before the fire, and carefully
-divided out.
-</p>
-<p>The second day, as night was approaching, we struck the edge of a
-prairie, which was about four miles across. As our horses were weary,
-we stopped a short time to rest, when one Irvine Hodge overtook us. He
-informed us that General Clark, having learned of our departure, had
-sent a troop of sixty cavalrymen in pursuit; that they were only a few
-miles behind, and on our trail. Their orders were to bring us dead or
-alive. We had thought of camping on the spot, but concluded to cross
-the prairie at once. This we accomplished, and camped in the timber. In
-the night, snow commenced falling. It appeared to come down in sheets
-instead of flakes. In the morning it was about a foot and a half deep.
-Some of the company, at first, regretted this, but others saw and felt
-that the hand of the Lord was in it. My brother, Phineas, at once
-declared that it was the means of our deliverance. We started on and
-the wind began to blow. Our tracks were completely covered soon after
-they were made.
-</p>
-<p>We afterwards learned that our pursuers camped on the opposite side of
-the prairie from us, where we had rested. In the morning they tried to
-find our trail, but finding it impossible to do so, gave up pursuit.
-</p>
-<p>Thus we were saved from our enemies by a friendly interposition of the
-elements in our behalf.
-</p>
-<p>We were fifteen days on our journey from Far West to the Des Moines
-River. The last three days we were without food. After the snow fell,
-our horses had to subsist on what they could find above it.
-</p>
-<p>The brush had soon made my thin pants unavailable for covering my legs
-in the neighborhood of the knees. The fragments were tied up with small
-hickory withes. When we arrived near a house, on the Des Moines, I
-remained in the woods while one of my companions went to the house and
-obtained a pair of pants, that I might be presentable.
-</p>
-<p>On this trip it seemed as though both men and animals had a wonderful
-power of enduring cold, hunger and fatigue. I am constrained, after
-more than forty years have passed away, to acknowledge a special
-providence in our deliverance.
-</p>
-<p>I have drawn on my memory for the facts of this narrative, and think
-that they are correct; but there may be some errors in dates, and in
-the succession of events.
-</p>
-
-
-<h2><a name="INSTANCE"></a>AN INSTANCE OF DIVINE INTERPOSITION.
-</h2>
-<p class="centered">BY ELDER WILLIAM BUDGE.
-</p>
-<p class="chapterHeading">VISIT TO SCOTLAND&mdash;MEET OLD FRIENDS&mdash;RETURN TO LIVERPOOL&mdash;ABOUT TO GO
-BY STEAMER TO BRISTOL&mdash;A VOICE WARNS ME NOT TO GO&mdash;TURN BACK&mdash;SHORT OF
-MONEY&mdash;MEANS PROVIDENTIALLY PROVIDED&mdash;JOURNEY TO PORTSMOUTH&mdash;SEQUEL TO
-THE WARNING&mdash;THE STEAMER WRECKED.
-</p>
-<p>I had been laboring in the Southampton Conference, England, as a
-missionary for about two years, when I obtained permission to visit my
-relatives in Scotland. It was in the latter part of the summer of 1853.
-</p>
-<p>Accompanied by an Elder named Armstrong, who was going to Liverpool, I
-embarked at Portsmouth, on the steamship <em>Duke of Cornwall</em>, bound for
-that port, on the morning of the 8th of August.
-</p>
-<p>Shortly after starting, we passed the British fleet, lying off
-Spithead, preparing for a grand review, to take place on the following
-Thursday, which Queen Victoria was expected to attend. The scene
-was both novel and interesting, as we passed near the assembled and
-decorated ships.
-</p>
-<p>Passing the Isle of Wight, of which we had a good view, we called at
-Plymouth, Falmouth, and Penzance, before reaching Liverpool, passing
-also the celebrated Eddystone Lighthouse.
-</p>
-<p>We reached Liverpool at two p. m., on the 10th, and I sailed for
-Glasgow within two hours afterwards. On board the Scotch steamer, I was
-pleased to find an old acquaintance, named George Turnbull, who was at
-that time a clerk in the Church office at Liverpool, and on his way,
-like myself, to visit his home and friends.
-</p>
-<p>Brother Turnbull and I heard the gospel about the same time, in the
-same city, (Glasgow) and became members of the same branch of the
-Church; he being baptized first. This young man was a scholar, and
-possessed of much natural ability, and for some time, was a good Saint,
-but he would not run the race; he eventually fell into transgression,
-denied the faith, and was lost.
-</p>
-<p>There were also on board the vessel, Elder Fullmer, pastor of the
-Liverpool Conference, and wife, and Elder John O. Angus, President of
-the Shropshire Conference. I was well acquainted with the latter; he
-was a faithful missionary, and a quiet, humble, and inoffensive man. He
-labored for a long time in the St. George Temple, and died some time
-ago.
-</p>
-<p>Such company was very agreeable, but the night was somewhat stormy, and
-we did not reach Glasgow until two p. m. next day.
-</p>
-<p>During this trip, I visited my relatives in Glasgow, Lanark, and
-elsewhere, and also the Saints in a district of the conference where
-I had formerly labored. I felt truly grateful to the Lord for all His
-goodness unto me, in preserving me while struggling hard in several new
-fields of labor to which I had been allotted, since I first left home
-and beg an my labors as a missionary.
-</p>
-<p>On the first day of September, taking leave of my friends, I embarked
-on a steam vessel for Liverpool. Elder John O. Angus was also a
-passenger, and I, therefore, had good company during a very stormy
-passage. Arriving at Liverpool, we called at the Church office, Wilton
-Street, and lodged at the house of Elder A. F. Macdonald, president of
-the conference.
-</p>
-<p>I intended to go by sea from Liverpool to Bristol, and by land to
-Salisbury, on my way back to Portsmouth, as I had not means enough to
-go through by railroad conveyance. I had explained this to Brother
-Angus, and on the morning after our arrival in Liverpool, I bade him
-good by, and walked down to the docks, carrying my carpet sack and a
-number of books, which I had brought with me from home. This was on the
-third day of September, 1853.
-</p>
-<p>A number of people were waiting to go on board the same steam vessel I
-intended to take. The steamer at the time was taking in freight at the
-opposite side of the dock, and would call for us, so we were informed,
-in a short time.
-</p>
-<p>While standing looking at the vessel, a voice, loud and distinct, said:
-"Do not go on board." I was startled, and looked around, but there was
-no one near. Although I turned hastily, I did not really expect to see
-any one who might have spoken. It was, I felt, a revelation; I was
-impressed with the divine force, and I lifted my satchel preparatory
-to leaving, but suddenly I thought of my want of means, and began to
-wonder whether I had not been deceived by my imagination. I put down
-my satchel again, just as the ship was nearing that part of the dock
-where the passengers were waiting. My condition tempted me. I was in
-doubt for a moment. I began to reason; but faith triumphed. I felt sure
-that it was a warning, and, lifting my baggage, left the dock for the
-Lime Street Station, as the people who had been waiting passed into the
-steamer.
-</p>
-<p>Once decided, there was no further trouble, and I began to consider how
-I could reach Portsmouth. When I entered the station, I had concluded
-to take the first third-class train to Birmingham. At that time, I had
-no acquaintances there, and wished to hurry on, trusting that the way
-would be opened up as my necessities required; such having been the
-case many times before. The Lord had prepared the way in times past,
-and I had faith that He would help me then sufficiently.
-</p>
-<p>I was one of those young and very inexperienced Elders, sent into the
-missionary field literally without purse or scrip. Elder George B.
-Wallace, at that time one of the presidency of the Church in Europe,
-sent me with several others into Cumberland County, in the North of
-England, where there were no Saints until we were instrumental in the
-hands of the Lord in bringing some to a knowledge of the truth.
-</p>
-<p>It was a hard country, and we had a rough experience. In less than
-three months, three Elders out of five returned home; but Elder Thomas
-Wallace, now of Weber County, and I remained until the Lord called us
-somewhere else.
-</p>
-<p>I have been in many new fields of labor since, without money and
-without friends until the Lord raised them up, but never among a people
-so ignorant, and unimpressionable as the people we could obtain access
-to in the North of England. In comparison, my prospects, as I walked
-into the Lime Street Station, were not at all discouraging, but as I
-entered, there stood Brother Angus, who was waiting for a train to take
-him to Shrewsbury.
-</p>
-<p>He was surprised to see me, and I was a little abashed, as I felt
-somewhat delicate about giving him an explanation. Although satisfied
-myself, I had some misgivings about satisfying him. I told him,
-however, what had happened, and, to my relief, he said, putting his
-hand on my shoulder, "You have done just right, and you will see the
-hand of God in this."
-</p>
-<p>A third-class train, I learned, would not leave until next morning, so
-I lodged with Brother Turnbull, who had returned to Liverpool.
-</p>
-<p>The next day I went to Birmingham, and there learned that a cheap
-excursion train would leave for Bristol at five p. m. Bristol&mdash;going
-by land&mdash;was not directly on my way, but the fare being low, and
-going from there to Warminster and Salisbury, I was likely to reach
-Portsmouth sooner than any other way.
-</p>
-<p>In the cars, I made the acquaintance of a lady and gentleman also going
-to Bristol, to visit some relatives they had in that town. After an
-interesting conversation they invited me to take lunch with them, which
-was very acceptable, and on our arrival at Bristol, they pressed me to
-accompany them to their friend's house, where I remained all night,
-being warmly received and well treated.
-</p>
-<p>I had not quite a dollar in my possession, and I acknowledge the hand
-of the Lord in thus opening up the way for me.
-</p>
-<p>On reaching Warminster next day at six p. m., I had only twelve cents
-left, and a heavy carpet sack, which I took to a carrier who made
-occasional trips with freight to Salisbury, and I started at once to
-walk to the latter place, distant twenty-two miles.
-</p>
-<p>It was evening and the weather pleasant, and the distance nothing
-unusual for a missionary, but I made a mistake by starting out too
-fast, perspired, got tired, and was obliged to take lodging at a small
-way-side inn, which cost me eight cents. I slept without supper and
-resumed my journey without breakfast the next morning, but thanking the
-Lord for good health and spirits.
-</p>
-<p>On reaching Salisbury, where I was a perfect stranger, I walked into
-the town with the intention of inquiring for Latter-day Saints, a few
-of whom I understood lived there. My first inquiry was of a little
-boy, who quickly answered "Yes, my mother is one," and at once offered
-to conduct me to his home, which we soon reached, and to which I was
-warmly welcomed.
-</p>
-<p>On passing through the streets, I saw, posted upon the walls,
-announcements of an excursion trip to Southampton and Portsmouth,
-fare two shillings and six pence, or sixty-two cents in our money.
-Reflecting upon the means of obtaining such a sum without being obliged
-to write and wait for it, we reached the house of my guide's mother.
-</p>
-<p>From the boy's statement that his mother was a "Mormon," I got the
-impression that his father, if he had one, was not, which I found to
-be correct. His father was not very friendly, but his mother was a
-very earnest Saint, and a very thoughtful and kind one, as while I sat
-taking some refreshments which she had hastily prepared, she brought
-and gave me a piece of money, the exact amount necessary to procure my
-ticket to Portsmouth. I again thanked the Lord, and explained to my
-kind sister what her gift would enable me to do. The boy had in the
-meantime, by her instructions, brought my carpet sack, and I was ready
-to continue my journey.
-</p>
-<p>I reached Portsmouth on the 7th day of September, and while there
-on the 9th, I read in the newspaper of the total wreck of the steam
-vessel, on which I was about to sail from Liverpool, when I was warned
-by the Lord not to go on board the ship.
-</p>
-
-
-<h2><a name="MYLAST"></a>MY LAST MISSION TO THE SANDWICH ISLANDS.
-</h2>
-<p class="centered">BY WM. W. CLUFF.
-</p>
-<h2><a name="MCHAPTERI"></a>CHAPTER I.
-</h2>
-<p class="chapterHeading">ELDERS CALLED HOME FROM THE SANDWICH ISLANDS&mdash;NATIVE ELDER LEFT TO
-PRESIDE&mdash;GIBSON'S ARRIVAL IN SALT LAKE&mdash;JOINS THE CHURCH&mdash;ASKS FOR A
-MISSION TO THE SANDWICH ISLANDS&mdash;HIS DEEP-LAID SCHEME&mdash;LEADING ASTRAY
-THE HAWAIIAN SAINTS&mdash;FIVE ELDERS SENT TO INVESTIGATE&mdash;ARRIVAL AT THE
-SANDWICH ISLANDS&mdash;ATTEMPT TO GO ASHORE IN A BOAT&mdash;CAPSIZED IN THE
-SURF&mdash;ELDER LORENZO SNOW LOST&mdash;AFTER A LONG SEARCH, FOUND UNDER THE
-BOAT&mdash;EFFORTS TO RESUSCITATE HIM&mdash;RESTORED TO LIFE ONE HOUR AFTER BEING
-DROWNED.
-</p>
-<p>In the summer and autumn of 1857, a United States army was marching
-towards Utah, evidently with hostile intentions towards its people. It
-was thought wisdom, by the authorities of the Church, to concentrate
-the strength of the Saints for any emergency, by calling home the
-Elders that were on foreign missions.
-</p>
-<p>When the last of the Elders from Utah left the Sandwich Islands, on
-the 1st of May, 1858, the care of the Saints on each of the islands
-was entrusted to a native Elder. Kailihune was appointed to preside
-over the gathering place on Lanai. He was among the first fruits of the
-labors of the Elders, and for a long time had been very efficient and
-faithful.
-</p>
-<p>During our difficulties with the government Walter M. Gibson, an
-adventurer, came to Utah. His ostensible object was to induce President
-Young, and the general Church authorities, to remove our people <em>en
-masse</em>, to the East India Islands. He painted, in glowing colors,
-the splendid facilities and opportunities those islands offered for
-immigration and colonization, by an enterprising and industrious people
-like the Latter-day Saints.
-</p>
-<p>In his ignorance, he supposed that the object of the founder and
-leaders of the Church was to found a powerful and independent
-nation. The object of these schemes was, evidently, his own personal
-aggrandizement.
-</p>
-<p>It had, no doubt, been a favorite project of his, for years, to found
-a government somewhere on the islands of the Pacific Ocean. Failing
-in his scheme for the removal of the Church, some other plan must be
-devised for the accomplishment of his cherished purpose.
-</p>
-<p>He professed to become a convert to our faith, and was baptized into
-the Church. He then requested to be sent on a mission to the Polynesian
-Islands. He desired a roving commission from the Presidency of the
-Church, authorizing him to travel and preach, on any or all of the
-islands, in the Pacific Ocean.
-</p>
-<p>Before leaving Salt Lake City, Mr. Gibson made it a specialty to
-converse with the Elders who had lately returned from the Sandwich
-Islands. He sought to be well informed on the general condition of the
-islands, the customs, traditions, and general character of the natives,
-and, especially did he seek to be well informed as to the numbers,
-organization, location, and general condition of the native Saints. His
-object, in this, developed afterwards.
-</p>
-<p>When he left Utah he went directly to the Sandwich Islands. He soon
-found some of the Saints, and represented to them, that he had been
-sent by President Young, not only to take charge of the mission on
-those islands, but to preside over all the churches that might be
-raised up on any of the Pacific islands, and, in that capacity, that he
-was equal to, and entirely independent of President Young.
-</p>
-<p>The native Saints had been left about two years to themselves. They
-were naturally simple and credulous, and it was easy to impose upon
-them.
-</p>
-<p>As soon as Mr. Gibson acquired some knowledge of the native language,
-he commenced traveling among the branches of the Church, and grafted
-on to the gospel, many of the old traditions and superstitions of the
-Hawaiians. He reorganized the Church, or, more properly speaking,
-reconstructed it in accordance with his own notions, throughout the
-islands.
-</p>
-<p>He was one of those characters, of whom the apostle Peter warned
-the Saints in his day, "and through covetousness shall they with
-feigned words make merchandise of you." He ordained twelve apostles,
-and charged them one hundred and fifty dollars each for initiating
-them into the office, and charged High Priests, Seventies, etc,
-proportionately, according to the presumed importance of the offices.
-</p>
-<p>By this and other impositions, he succeeded in raising sufficient means
-for the purchase of one half of the island of Lanai. Some years before
-the Elders had leased the same tract of land, of Halelea, a native
-chief, for a temporary gathering place for the Saints.
-</p>
-<p>Mr. Gibson represented to the Saints that he was securing the land for
-them, but that it would have to be deeded to him for them.
-</p>
-<p>For the accomplishment of his purpose, concentration and organization
-were necessary. He continued to gather the Saints to Lanai. There he
-organized all the males, old and young, into companions, and daily
-drilled them in the art of war. He informed them that, as soon as they
-were properly disciplined, it was his intention to build or purchase a
-vessel, equip it, and sail for one of the South Sea Islands. He would
-seek a favorable opportunity, conquer the natives, leave some of his
-disciplined men in charge of the conquered territory, and fill up his
-depleted ranks with raw recruits.
-</p>
-<p>In this way, he designed to conquer one island after another, until he
-organized a large fleet, and subjugated all the Polynesian Islands.
-Thus he hoped to realize his wildest dreams by organizing, as he
-expressed it, "<em>One great grand empire</em>," that would be able to take
-its place among the leading nations of the earth.
-</p>
-<p>His every act from the time of his arrival in Utah, had been designed
-for his own aggrandizement. He had learned nothing of the spirit and
-power of the gospel. The Lord is establishing His kingdom, and he
-was fighting against it. If he has not already done so, he will yet
-realize the truth of the saying of the Savior, in his teachings, when,
-on his earthly mission, he likened the Kingdom of God to a stone, and
-said, "And whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken: but on
-whomsoever it may fall, it will grind him to powder."
-</p>
-<p>Notwithstanding the Saints had been gradually led astray by Mr. Gibson,
-they felt that his teachings and practices were not the same as those
-of the Elders who had labored among them before his coming.
-</p>
-<p>Fearing they might be deceived, some eight of the native Elders wrote
-to brethren in Utah who had labored for many years among them. They
-stated some of the facts concerning Mr. Gibson's course, and asked for
-advice. This communication was translated and submitted to President
-Young.
-</p>
-<p>The First Presidency decided that Apostles E. T. Benson and Lorenzo
-Snow should visit the islands, and that Elders Joseph. F. Smith, Alma
-L. Smith, and myself, who had previously been on missions to the
-islands and understood the native language, should accompany them.
-</p>
-<p>We arrived at Honolulu, the capital of the islands, about the 27th
-of March, 1864. On the 29th we sailed for Lahaina, on the schooner,
-<em>Nettie Merrill</em>, Captain Fisher, for the island of Maui, a distance of
-about ninety miles from Honolulu. On the morning of the 31st of March,
-we came to anchor about one mile from the mouth of the little harbor of
-Lahaina.
-</p>
-<p>Apostles Ezra T. Benson, Lorenzo Snow, Brother Alma L. Smith, and
-myself, got into the small boat to go ashore. Brother Joseph F. Smith,
-as he afterwards stated, had some misgivings about going in that boat,
-but the manifestation was not sufficiently strong to indicate any
-general accident. He preferred to remain on board the vessel, until the
-boat returned.
-</p>
-<p>The boat started for the shore. It contained some barrels and boxes,
-the captain, a white man, two or three native passengers, and the
-boat's crew, who were also natives.
-</p>
-<p>The entrance to the harbor is a very narrow passage between coral
-reefs, and when the sea is rough it is very dangerous, on account of
-the breakers. Where the vessel lay the sea was not rough, but only
-presented the appearance of heavy swells rolling to the shore.
-</p>
-<p>As we approached the reef it was evident to me, that the surf was
-running higher than we anticipated. I called the captain's attention to
-the fact. We were running quartering across the waves, and I suggested
-that we change our course so as to run at right angles with them. He
-replied, that he did not think there was any danger, and our course was
-not changed. We went but little farther, when a heavy swell struck the
-boat and carried us before it about fifty yards. When the swell passed
-it left us in a trough between two huge waves.
-</p>
-<p>It was too late to retrieve our error, and we must run our chances.
-When the second swell struck the boat, it raised the stern so high that
-the steersman's oar was out of the water, and he lost control of the
-boat. It rode on the swell a short distance, and swung around just as
-the wave began to break up. We were almost instantly capsized, into the
-dashing, foaming sea.
-</p>
-<p>I felt no concern for myself about drowning, for while on my former
-mission I had learned to swim and sport in the surf of those shores.
-</p>
-<p>The last I remembered of Brother Snow, as the boat was going over I saw
-him seize the upper edge of it with both hands. Fearing that the upper
-edge of the boat, or the barrels, might hit and injure me as the boat
-was going over, I plunged head foremost into the water. After swimming
-a short distance, I came to the surface without being strangled or
-injured.
-</p>
-<p>The boat was bottom upwards, and barrels, hats, and umbrellas were
-floating in every direction. I swam to the boat and as there was
-nothing to cling to on the bottom, I reached under and seized the edge
-of it.
-</p>
-<p>About the same time, brother Benson came up near me, and readily got
-hold of the boat.
-</p>
-<p>The natives soon appeared, and swam about quite unconcerned for their
-own safety. Brother Alma L. Smith came up on the opposite side of the
-boat from brother Benson and myself. He was considerably strangled, but
-succeeded in securing a hold on the boat.
-</p>
-<p>A short time afterwards the captain was discovered, about fifty yards
-from us. Two of his sailors swam to his assistance, and, one on each
-side, succeeded in keeping him on the surface, although life was
-apparently extinct.
-</p>
-<p>Nothing yet had been seen of Brother Snow, although the natives had
-been swimming and diving in every direction in search of him. We were
-only about one fourth of a mile from the shore. The people, as soon as
-they discovered our circumstances, manned a life boat and hurried to
-the rescue.
-</p>
-<p>We were taken into the boat, when the crew wanted to row for the shore,
-and pick up the captain on the way. We told them that one of our
-friends was yet missing, and we did not want to leave, as long as there
-was any possibility of a chance to render him assistance. We discovered
-that a second boat had left the shore, and could reach the captain as
-soon as the one we were in. Seeing this, the crew of the boat we were
-in, consented to remain and assist us.
-</p>
-<p>The captain was taken ashore, and, by working over him for some time,
-was brought to life.
-</p>
-<p>The life of Captain Fisher would not, probably, have been much
-endangered, except for a sack of four or five hundred dollars in silver
-which he held in his hand. This he clung to with great tenacity. When
-the boat capsized the weight of it took him at once to the bottom. The
-natives dove and brought him up, still clinging to the sack. When his
-vitality was restored, the first thing he inquired about was the money;
-intimating to the natives, with peculiar emphasis, that it would not
-have been healthy for them to have lost it.
-</p>
-<p>Brother Snow had not yet been discovered, and the anxiety was intense.
-The natives were, evidently, doing all in their power.
-</p>
-<p>Finally, one of them, in edging himself around the capsized boat, must
-have felt Brother Snow with his feet and pulled him, at least partly,
-from under it, as the first I saw of Brother Snow was his hair floating
-upon the water as the native was dragging him through the water around
-one end of the capsized boat. As soon as we got him into our boat, we
-told the boatmen to pull for the shore with all possible speed. His
-body was stiff, and life was evidently extinct.
-</p>
-<p>Brother Alma L. Smith and myself were sitting side by side. We laid
-Brother Snow across our laps, and, on the way to shore, we quietly
-administered to him and asked the Lord to spare his life, that he might
-return to his family and home.
-</p>
-<p>On reaching the shore, we carried him a little way, to some large
-empty barrels that were lying on the sandy beach. We laid him, face
-downwards, on one of these, and rolled him back and forth until we
-succeeded in getting the water that he had swallowed out of him.
-</p>
-<p>During this time, a number of persons came down from the town; among
-them was Mr. E. P. Adams, a merchant. All were willing to do what they
-could. We washed Brother Snow's face with camphor, furnished by Mr.
-Adams. We did not only what was customary in such cases, but also what
-the spirit seemed to whisper to us.
-</p>
-<p>After working over him for some time, without any indications of
-returning life, the bystanders said that nothing more could be done
-for him. But we did not feel like giving him up, and still prayed and
-worked over him, with an assurance that the Lord would hear and answer
-our prayers.
-</p>
-<p>Finally we were impressed to place our mouth over his and make an
-effort to inflate his lungs, alternately blowing in and drawing out the
-air, imitating, as far as possible, the natural process of breathing.
-This we persevered in until we succeeded in inflating his lungs. After
-a little, there were very faint indications of returning vitality. A
-slight wink of the eye, which, until then, had been open and deathlike,
-and a very faint rattle in the throat, were the first symptoms of
-returning life. These grew more and more distinct, until consciousness
-was fully restored.
-</p>
-<p>When this result was reached, it must have been fully an hour after the
-capsizing of the boat. A Portuguese man, living in Lahaina, who, from
-the first, rendered us much assistance, invited us to take Brother Snow
-to his house. There being no Saints in the place, we gladly accepted
-his kind offer.
-</p>
-<p>Every possible attention was given to Brother Snow's comfort.
-</p>
-<p>Persons in danger and excitement, often see things a little
-differently. The following is Apostle Snow's account of the capsizing
-of the boat:
-</p>
-<p>"As we were moving along within some half a mile from the point where
-we expected to land, my attention was suddenly arrested by Captain
-Fisher calling to the oarsmen, in a voice which denoted some alarm,
-'Hurry up! hurry up!' I quickly discovered the cause of alarm.
-</p>
-<p>"A short distance behind us, I saw an immense surf, thirty or forty
-feet high rushing towards us swifter than a race horse. We had scarcely
-a moment for reflection before the huge mass was upon us. In an instant
-our boat, with its contents, as though it were only a feather, was
-hurled into the briny water, and we were under this rolling, seething,
-mountain wave.
-</p>
-<p>"This was certainly unexpected. It took me by surprise. I think,
-however, that I soon comprehended the situation: that we were in the
-midst of the turbulent waters, a quarter of a mile from the shore,
-without much probability of receiving human aid.
-</p>
-<p>"I felt confident, however, that there would be some way of escape;
-that the Lord would provide the means, for it was not possible that
-my life and mission were thus to terminate. This reliance on the Lord
-banished fear, and inspired me with hope up to the last moment of
-consciousness.
-</p>
-<p>"Having been somewhat subject to fainting spells, I believe that after
-a few moments in the water, I must have fainted, as I did not suffer
-the pain common in the experience of drowning persons. I had been in
-the water only a few moments, until I lost consciousness.
-</p>
-<p>"The first I knew afterwards, I was on shore receiving the kind and
-tender attentions of my brethren. The first recollection I have of
-returning consciousness, was seeing a very small light, the smallest
-maginable. This soon disappeared, and I was again in total darkness.
-Again it appeared, much larger than before, then sank away and left me,
-as before, in forgetfulness. Thus it continued to come and go, until,
-finally, I recognized, as I thought, persons whispering, and soon after
-I asked in a feeble whisper, 'What is the matter?'
-</p>
-<p>"I immediately recognized the voice of Elder Cluff, as he replied, 'You
-have been drowned; the boat upset in the surf.' Quick as lightning,
-the scene of our disaster flashed upon my mind. I immediately asked,
-'Are you brethren all safe?' The emotion that was awakened in my bosom
-by the answer of Elder Cluff, will remain as long as life continues:
-'Brother Snow, we are all safe.'
-</p>
-<p>"I rapidly recovered, and very soon was able to walk and accompany the
-brethren to our lodgings."
-</p>
-<p>As soon as Brother Snow was out of danger, it occurred to me that I had
-better return to the vessel.
-</p>
-<p>As I reached the deck, by the rope ladder over its side, I saw, at a
-glance, that Brother Smith was under great anxiety of mind.
-</p>
-<p>We were both under an intensity of feeling, which men usually
-experience only a few times in their lives. Brother Smith had been
-informed by a native that the captain and an elderly white man were
-drowned. The latter, he supposed to be Brother Benson, hence his great
-anxiety.
-</p>
-<p>My own nervous system was strung up to an extreme tension by the
-events of the past two hours. When I told Brother Smith that all were
-safe, the sudden revulsion of feeling almost overcame him. We rejoiced
-together that through a merciful Providence, and the faith that had
-been bestowed upon us, we were all alive.
-</p>
-
-
-<h2><a name="MCHAPTERII"></a>CHAPTER II.
-</h2>
-<p class="chapterHeading">JOURNEY TO LANAI&mdash;MEET MR. GIBSON&mdash;REVERENCE OF NATIVES FOR HIM&mdash;HIS
-SPEECH AND ASSUMPTION&mdash;ELDER JOSEPH F. SMITH'S REPLY&mdash;ELDER SNOW'S
-PROPHECY&mdash;MR. GIBSON CUT OFF THE CHURCH&mdash;ELDER SNOW'S PROPHECY
-FULFILLED&mdash;ADVISED TO SELECT A NEW GATHERING PLACE&mdash;A VISION&mdash;SUITABLE
-PLACE POINTED OUT.
-</p>
-<p>ON the 2nd of April, Brother Snow had so far recovered his strength,
-that it was thought best to pursue our journey. We hired some natives
-to take us in an open boat across the channel, sixteen miles, to Lanai.
-We arrived at the landing place, three miles from the village, just at
-dark. We sent a messenger to Mr. Gibson, with the request that he would
-send down some saddle horses for us to ride up in the morning.
-</p>
-<p>Early the following morning, April 3rd, the horses were ready for us.
-An hour's ride over a rough, rocky road brought us to the settlement.
-Our reception by Mr. Gibson, and most of the native Saints, was cool
-and very formal. Many improvements had been made since our last visit,
-that were praiseworthy, and reflected great credit on Mr. Gibson.
-</p>
-<p>After breakfast, Apostles Benson and Snow engaged in conversation with
-Mr. Gibson on the affairs of the mission.
-</p>
-<p>That day and the following, were principally spent in laboring with
-Mr. Gibson and the native Elders, to get them, if possible, to see the
-condition they were in. During this time, Brothers Joseph F. Smith,
-Alma L. Smith and myself, took a ride around the valley accompanied by
-Mr. Gibson's daughter, as our guide. About one-half of a mile from Mr.
-Gibson's residence, was a large rock, the top several feet above the
-ground. Mr. Gibson had a chamber cut into this rock, in which he had
-deposited a Book of Mormon, and other things, and called it the corner
-stone of a great temple, which would be erected there. A frame work of
-poles had been constructed, in a circular form around this rock, and
-this was covered with brush.
-</p>
-<p>Mr. Gibson, by appealing to the pagan superstitions of the natives,
-made them believe that this spot was sacred, and if any person touched
-it, he would be struck dead.
-</p>
-<p>So much faith had the daughter of Mr. Gibson in the teachings of her
-father, that she related, apparently in good faith, the circumstance of
-a hen flying upon the boothe, and immediately falling down dead.
-</p>
-<p>Notwithstanding the protest of Miss Gibson, that it was very dangerous
-to do so, we went inside of the brush structure, and examined the rock
-and came out unharmed.
-</p>
-<p>We were further informed that Mr. Gibson had succeeded in surrounding
-his own person and residence with such a halo of sacredness in the
-minds of the natives, that they always entered his house on their hands
-and knees.
-</p>
-<p>This was repeated on other occasions. It was the old customary way,
-in which the natives had been in the habit of paying respect to their
-kings, and the custom had been revived by Mr. Gibson, in order to
-increase his personal prestige.
-</p>
-<p>We had previously learned that the Saints would assemble in conference
-on the 6th of April. At ten o'clock, a. m., they had assembled in the
-meeting house. We all started to go in, when Mr. Gibson made some
-excuse for returning to his house. We went and took our seats on the
-stand. The house was well filled. In a few minutes Mr. Gibson made his
-appearance. As soon as he entered the door, the entire congregation
-instantly arose to their feet, and remained standing until he was
-seated on the stand. The execution of this act of reverence evinced
-long and careful training.
-</p>
-<p>Mr. Gibson had, doubtless, delayed his entrance, to make a fitting
-opportunity for this exhibition. He entirely ignored the presence of
-the Apostles, and, after the people were seated, arose and gave out the
-opening hymn. This act gave evidence, at once, that he had no proper
-idea of the organization and authority of the Priesthood. Seeing this,
-President Benson called on me to pray.
-</p>
-<p>Without giving any time for consultation, as soon as the second hymn
-was sung, Mr. Gibson arose to his feet and commenced to address the
-congregation, in substance as follows: "My dear red-skinned brethren,
-sisters and friends, I presume you are all wondering, and anxious to
-know why these strangers have come so suddenly among us, without giving
-us any notice of their coming. I will assure you of one thing, my
-red-skinned friends, when I find out, I will be sure to let you know,
-for I am your father, and will protect you in your rights.
-</p>
-<p>"These strangers may say they are your friends, but let me remind
-you how, when they lived here, years ago, they lived upon your very
-scanty substance. Did they make any such improvements as you see I have
-made? Did I not come here and find you without a father, poor, and
-discouraged? Did I not gather you together here, and make all these
-improvements that you to-day enjoy?
-</p>
-<p>"Now, you, my red-skinned friends, must decide who your friend and
-father is; whether it is these strangers, or I, who have done so much
-for you."
-</p>
-<p>When he took his seat, President Benson requested Brother Joseph F.
-Smith to talk, rather intimating that it was desirable to speak on
-general principles, and that he need not feel bound to notice all that
-Mr. Gibson had said.
-</p>
-<p>It seemed impossible for any man to speak with greater power and
-demonstration of the Spirit. He referred the Saints to the labors of
-Brother George Q. Cannon, and the first Elders who brought them the
-gospel.
-</p>
-<p>He reminded them of facts with which the older Saints were well
-acquainted&mdash;the great disadvantage the Elders labored under, and the
-privations they suffered in first preaching the gospel on the islands.
-How they slept in their then miserable huts, and lived as they lived;
-how they traveled on foot, in storms, and in bad weather, from village
-to village, and from house to house, exposing health and life; how they
-went destitute of clothing, and what they had been in the habit of
-considering the necessaries of life, to bring them the blessings of the
-gospel, without money and without price.
-</p>
-<p>He asked by what right Mr. Gibson called himself the father of the
-people, and the Elders who faithfully labored to establish them in the
-gospel strangers.
-</p>
-<p>The spirit and power that accompanied Brother Smith's remarks
-astonished the Saints and opened their eyes. They began to see how
-they had been imposed upon. Every word he spoke found a response in
-their hearts, as was plainly manifest by their eager looks and animated
-countenances.
-</p>
-<p>There was another meeting in the afternoon, in which Apostles Benson
-and Snow addressed the Saints. Their remarks were interpreted by Elder
-Joseph F. Smith.
-</p>
-<p>On the 7th, there was a meeting in the forenoon. A Priesthood meeting
-was appointed for the evening, and the conference adjourned <em>sine die</em>.
-</p>
-<p>The meeting of the Priesthood in the evening was well attended, as it
-was understood that Mr. Gibson's course would be investigated. The
-complaints that were made by the native Elders, in the communication
-that led to our present mission, were read, and Mr. Gibson was called
-on to make answer to the charges.
-</p>
-<p>In addition to nearly a repetition of his harangue at the meeting on
-the day previous, his reply consisted of a bombastic display of some
-letters of appointment, and recommendations from President Young, to
-which he attached large seals, bedecked with a variety of colored
-ribbons, to give them an air of importance, and official significance,
-in the eyes of the unsophisticated natives.
-</p>
-<p>These papers he held up before the people, and, pointing to them said,
-with great emphasis, "Here is my authority, which I received direct
-from President Brigham Young. I don't hold myself accountable to these
-men!" meaning the Apostles and those who came with them.
-</p>
-<p>Had there been no other proof of the wrong course of Mr. Gibson, that
-remark was sufficient to satisfy the brethren what their plain duty
-was, and they acted promptly in the matter.
-</p>
-<p>Apostle E. T. Benson followed Mr. Gibson. He reviewed Mr. Gibson's past
-course, and showed that, in making merchandise of the offices of the
-Priesthood, introducing the former pagan superstitions of the people,
-for the purpose of obtaining power, and his idea of establishing a
-temporal and independent kingdom on the Pacific isles, were all in
-antagonism to the plan laid down in the gospel for the redemption of
-man. The spirit manifested by Mr. Gibson proved that he was ignorant
-of the powers of the Priesthood, or that he ignored them for purely
-selfish motives. What they had seen and heard since their arrival,
-proved that the complaints made by the native Elders, in their letters
-to Utah, were correct, as far as they went, but the half had not been
-told.
-</p>
-<p>Brother Benson's remarks were interpreted, after which, it was motioned
-that Mr. Gibson's course be disapproved. When this was put to a vote,
-all but one of the native Elders voted against the motion. This showed
-that Mr. Gibson still retained a strong hold on the minds of the Saints.
-</p>
-<p>Notwithstanding this show of strong opposition, Brother Snow arose, and
-in his remarks prophesied that Mr. Gibson would see the time that not
-one of the Saints would remain with him.
-</p>
-<p>Brother Joseph F. Smith remarked, that, among the scores of Elders who
-had labored on the islands, none had been so utterly wanting in the
-spirit and power of the gospel as to charge the Saints anything for
-conferring on them the blessings of the Priesthood, until Walter M.
-Gibson came, and had the presumption to claim that he had a right to
-ordain apostles and high priests, for a price&mdash;for money.
-</p>
-<p>The Apostles informed Mr. Gibson and the Saints that, when they left
-the islands for home, Elder Joseph F. Smith would be left in charge
-of the mission. That all those who wished to be considered in good
-standing in the Church should leave Lanai and return to their homes on
-the other islands, where the branches would be reorganized and set in
-order by the brethren who would be left for that purpose.
-</p>
-<p>The next day we returned to Lahaina, where we held a council and cut
-Mr. Gibson off from the Church. We returned to Honolulu, and, about
-eight days after, Apostles Snow and Benson took passage on the bark
-<em>Onward</em>, for San Francisco.
-</p>
-<p>Brother Snow's prophecy was literally fulfilled. The Saints all left
-Mr. Gibson and returned to their former homes, as they had been
-counseled to do. The last one to leave him was Kailihune, the Elder who
-had been left to preside over the place of gathering on Lanai.
-</p>
-<p>He finally rejoined the Church. All the plans of Mr. Gibson were
-completely frustrated. He is a prominent example of the nothingness of
-man, when he attempts to battle against the kingdom of God.
-</p>
-<p>When the Elders were called home, in 1858, there had not been time
-to do much in gathering the Saints. As Mr. Gibson had succeeded in
-obtaining a personal title to the land leased for that purpose, on
-the island of Lanai, brothers Benson and Snow advised the Elders who
-remained, to notice in their travels what appeared to them the best
-places for this purpose, that, when the time came for it, a good
-selection might be made.
-</p>
-<p>On the island of Oahu, and near the sea shore, lived a white man by the
-name of Doharty. He did not belong to the Church, but was friendly to
-the Saints, and the Elders frequently shared his hospitality. Between
-his house and the sea beach was a piece of ground, where grew a very
-dense thicket of a large shrub of a peculiar growth. Through this were
-paths made by the people and their domestic animals. Into this thicket
-the Elders when there were in the habit of daily retiring to pray.
-One day when I was walking along one of these paths, I saw President
-Young approach me. Said he "This is the place to gather the native
-Saints to." He seemed to fully comprehend the surroundings, and in that
-easy, familiar way, so characteristic of him, indicated the advantages
-afforded for a settlement. No matter what my bodily condition might
-have been at that time, the apparent meeting was in the open air and
-the broad light of day. It was as real to me as any fact of my life.
-I saw the facilities of the place as he represented them, and ever
-afterwards, that appeared to me the best place on the islands for the
-gathering of the Saints.
-</p>
-<p>We remained on the islands about six months before other Elders arrived
-from Utah, and we were released to return home. When we arrived in
-San Francisco, we met Elders F. A. Hammond, and George Nebeker, on
-their way to the Sandwich Islands. They had instructions to visit, and
-carefully examine all the islands, and make the best possible location
-that could be made available, to establish a place for the gathering of
-the Saints.
-</p>
-<p>I was afterwards informed, that they faithfully carried out their
-instructions, and at last decided that the place to which I have
-referred on the island of Oahu, was the best for the purpose. It was
-purchased, and many of the Saints are now gathered there.
-</p>
-<p>They have an extensive sugar plantation, where labor is provided for
-them, and every possible facility is afforded for their advancement.
-</p>
-
-
-<h2><a name="PROPHECY"></a>A PROPHECY FULFILLED.
-</h2>
-<p class="centered">AN INCIDENT OF MISSIONARY EXPERIENCE.
-</p>
-<p class="centered">BY B. F. JOHNSON.
-</p>
-<p class="chapterHeading">CALLED ON A MISSION TO THE SANDWICH ISLANDS&mdash;JOURNEY BY THE
-SOUTHERN ROUTE&mdash;A PROPHECY&mdash;FEAR AFTER UTTERING IT&mdash;RESIDENCE
-IN HONOLULU&mdash;POLITICAL AND RELIGIOUS CONFLICT&mdash;THE KINGDOM IN
-JEOPARDY&mdash;DISSATISFACTION AMONG THE PEOPLE&mdash;LETTER TO THE KING
-FAVORABLY CONSIDERED&mdash;A DREAM&mdash;A PRINCE SENT BY THE KING TO ASK COUNSEL
-OF LATTER-DAY SAINT ELDERS&mdash;ADVICE ACCEPTED, AND THE KINGDOM SAVED&mdash;THE
-DREAM AND PROPHECY FULFILED TOGETHER.
-</p>
-<p>With eight other Elders I was called by the General October Conference
-of 1852, on a mission to the Sandwich Islands. We went by what was then
-known as the Southern route to California, in order to sail from San
-Francisco.
-</p>
-<p>In passing through the southern settlements of Utah, we were everywhere
-treated with kindness and respect. We were often invited to preach
-where we stopped for the night, or to spend the Sabbath. We were in
-company with many other Elders who were called to go on missions to
-China, Australia, Hindostan, Ceylon, and other places.
-</p>
-<p>We all, alike, took part in the meetings, and shared the hospitality of
-the Saints. At Parowan we had an unusually good time, in a meeting of
-the Saints. The Spirit of the Lord rested greatly upon both hearers and
-speakers.
-</p>
-<p>I was the last Elder called upon to speak, and only a few minutes were
-left for me to occupy. Being full of the good feeling and spirit of the
-meeting, I commenced, not only to bear my testimony to the truth, but
-to prophesy of the future of some of the sons of Zion who were then
-going forth as her ministers.
-</p>
-<p>I predicted that, through faithfulness, the wisdom of heaven would
-increase with us; that while the wicked became weaker, the Elders of
-Israel would grow wiser; that the nations of the earth would begin to
-look towards Zion for counselors and statesmen, and that, if the Elders
-now going forth to the ends of the earth were true to their calling,
-they would not all fill their missions until some of them would be
-called upon to give counsel to some of the rulers of the lands to which
-they were sent.
-</p>
-<p>After closing my prophecy and remarks, and I had time to ponder on what
-I had said, I began to doubt the possibility of my predictions being
-fulfilled, and began to be troubled in mind.
-</p>
-<p>For a time I could not divest myself of the feeling, that my prediction
-was ill-timed and not by the spirit of the gospel. I would sometimes
-query if the brethren did not regard me as a false prophet, or, at
-least, as an enthusiast.
-</p>
-<p>When we arrived on the Sandwich Islands, we found the work of the
-Lord progressing. The Elders who had been laboring there were greatly
-rejoiced to see us.
-</p>
-<p>After a general mission conference, most of the brethren left Honolulu
-for their fields of labor on the different islands. I was left at this
-capital city, in charge of the foreign interests of the mission, to
-preside over a small branch of Saints, which had been gathered from
-the foreign residents on the islands, and to preach to the people as
-I might find opportunity. I also assisted Elders Lewis and Cannon, in
-raising funds for publishing the Book of Mormon in the native language.
-</p>
-<p>Owing to the conflicting interests of political and religious parties
-in the Hawaiian kingdom, it was in a weak condition. The various
-missionary interests had nearly changed into political ones. Dr. Judd,
-one of the missionaries sent out by the American Board of Foreign
-Missions, had long been the king's prime minister. Another missionary,
-by the name of Armstrong, was Minister of Public Instruction, and other
-Americans filled the offices of Minister of Foreign Relations, Chief
-Justice, Attorney General, etc.
-</p>
-<p>This missionary-political power began to cause great jealousy,
-especially in the case of Dr. Judd. Through his political advantages he
-had acquired much wealth, and, apparently by its use, raised himself up
-to be a power behind the throne, greater than the throne itself.
-</p>
-<p>King Kamehameha III., like George the III., of England, had not reached
-a high standard of virtue, or political economy. It was said that, for
-money borrowed of Dr. Judd, he had given a mortgage on the royal palace.
-</p>
-<p>As he had no children of his own he had adopted as next in succession,
-two sons of his sister, who were princes of the realm. About this
-time two projects were deeply agitating the public mind. One was the
-annexation of the islands to the United States, the other, a British
-protectorate over them. Neither of these projects suited the interests
-of the young princes, or pleased the majority of the people.
-</p>
-<p>There appeared to be but one thing upon which nearly all the
-natives could agree, that was opposition to Dr. Judd as the king's
-prime minister. He was, of course, sustained by some of his fellow
-missionaries, but appeared to be detested by the majority of those
-around him. Petition after petition was sent to the king, asking for,
-and even demanding, his removal. The court house and other large halls
-were crowded with indignation meetings, to protest against his being
-retained in office.
-</p>
-<p>It seemed, at times, as though the people would break out in tumult and
-insurrection, yet the king made no move to give them satisfaction, and,
-for many days, no answer was given to their petitions.
-</p>
-<p>All this time I had been a careful observer, and had attended their
-meetings. I had previously written a lengthy letter to the king,
-explaining the gospel as now revealed and the object of our mission to
-the islands.
-</p>
-<p>This letter he had caused to be published in the government journal,
-both in the English and Hawaiian languages. Such was the impression
-the reading of it made on his mind, that he sent, through the Minister
-of Foreign Relations, to say that he would give us an audience at his
-earliest convenience. Up to the time of which I am writing, he had not
-found the convenient opportunity.
-</p>
-<p>In the midst of this political commotion, I, one night, dreamed that
-I stood upon an eminence near a large mountain. I saw below me upon
-the bank of a small, but rapid stream, a large and rudely constructed
-frame building, apparently designed for machinery. It was not yet fully
-enclosed.
-</p>
-<p>As I looked, I saw a dense smoke arise from the building, and heard the
-cry of fire from a large number of people.
-</p>
-<p>It seemed that the wind blew strong from the mountain towards the
-building. The people came up on the opposite side of the building,
-to put out the fire, and they were blinded by the smoke which blew
-in their faces. I thought how foolish they were, to thus stay on the
-opposite side from the wind, to be blinded with the smoke.
-</p>
-<p>Looking, I saw a bucket with a rope attached on a flume through which
-the water ran. I quickly took it up, drew it full of water, looked for
-the center of the fire, dashed it in, and, all at once, the flame was
-extinguished.
-</p>
-<p>I thought a multitude of people came crowding into the building,
-wondering by whom the fire had been extinguished. Although I was with
-them, they appeared to comprehend nothing of my agency in the matter.
-I thought they were almost wild with joy, that the building, although
-somewhat charred and damaged, had been saved. They calculated that the
-damage the building had sustained was about fifty thousand dollars.
-</p>
-<p>I awoke in the morning, strangely impressed with the dream. I related
-it to Brother Nathan Tanner, who was then with me. I told him I thought
-we should see its interpretation.
-</p>
-<p>That morning, Brother Tanner called on one of the native Saints, who
-was living with Halalea, one of the highest native chiefs. He was
-a special friend of, and a counselor to, the king, and the man who
-carried him my letter.
-</p>
-<p>He told Brother Tanner that the king had appointed him to come with
-Prince Rehoreho, to meet us that night at our rooms, lay before us the
-king's great political trouble, and get our counsel.
-</p>
-<p>It came plainly to me, then, that therein would be the fulfillment
-of my dream. About ten o'clock the same evening, they called on us.
-They said the king was greatly exercised in his mind over the troubled
-condition of his government, and that he was not decided as to what was
-best to do.
-</p>
-<p>He said that he could not trust to the counsel of his ministers, nor to
-the advice of the ministers of other nations then at his court, for all
-had some point to gain. Dr. Judd, in his past troubles, had been his
-adviser, and, in times of need, had supplied him with money.
-</p>
-<p>It pained him, then, to turn out of office one who had so long been his
-friend, and, upon this subject, he wished us to give him our wisest
-counsel.
-</p>
-<p>While Halalea and the prince were delivering their message, I was
-continually praying in my heart that the Lord would give us wisdom to
-say such things as would do honor to His cause, for I felt very small
-for such an important occasion.
-</p>
-<p>After they delivered the king's message in full, I arose and told
-them that we were not sent to meddle with governments, nor to teach
-political science, but to preach the gospel of Christ as now revealed.
-But, inasmuch as the king was our friend, and desired counsel of us, we
-would give him such as the Lord would put in our hearts.
-</p>
-<p>I told them the Bible said, that "when the wicked rule the people
-mourn;" that if Dr. Judd was really a good man and a true friend to
-the king, as the king had believed him to be, he would not now allow
-the king to be in such great trouble on his account, but, like a true
-friend, would resign his office for the sake of peace between the king
-and his subjects.
-</p>
-<p>The fact that he was disposed to hold on to his office, at the
-expense of peace to the king's realm, showed, conclusively, that he
-was influenced by other motives than the peace and welfare of the
-kingdom. "We feel," said I, "that the present great political trouble
-and mourning is owing to Dr. Judd not being a good man, but wickedly
-holding a grasp upon the government office against the wishes of the
-people, for which there is no necessity, as the king has many true
-subjects of more than equal ability, any one of whom he could appoint
-as Dr. Judd's successor."
-</p>
-<p>When I ceased speaking, the king's messengers clasped my hands and
-said: "The things you have told us we had not thought of, and they are
-true. The king will be glad when we tell him what you have said, for
-we can see it plainly, now. We will assure you that, at ten o'clock
-to-morrow, you will hear the king's herald proclaiming through the
-streets of the city that Dr. Judd is removed from office."
-</p>
-<p>They left us with the warmest feelings of gratitude and friendship.
-</p>
-<p>The next morning at ten o'clock, the heralds were heard proclaiming the
-dismissal of Dr. Judd. The news created wonder and astonishment among
-the people, and they hurried together with public demonstrations of
-joy. They greatly marveled and queried by what agency, or through whose
-influence this long delayed, though most desirable object had been
-attained.
-</p>
-<p>As I had dreamed, so I saw the people greatly rejoicing, and, although
-I was daily among them, they had no thought that a Latter-day Saint
-could have had any agency in so important a matter.
-</p>
-<p>At night the city was brilliantly illuminated. There were few windows
-in it that did not have, at least, one candle to each pane of glass.
-</p>
-<p>In a settlement with Dr. Judd, as I had dreamed, the government found
-that it had lost fifty thousand dollars.
-</p>
-<p>Thus my prophecy and my dream were fulfilled together, and peace
-returned to the people. Joy came to our hearts that the Lord, through
-the inspiration of His Holy Spirit, had made us, His humble Elders, the
-means of giving saving counsel to princes.
-</p>
-
-
-<h2><a name="SPECIAL"></a>SPECIAL PROVIDENCES.
-</h2>
-<p class="chapterHeading">CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH THE EARLY TEMPLES WERE BUILT&mdash;HOW THE WORKMEN
-WERE ENCOURAGED&mdash;ARRIVAL OF BROTHER L&mdash;IN NAUVOO&mdash;HIS WILLINGNESS TO
-WORK WITHOUT PAY&mdash;HIS EXTREME WANT&mdash;APPEALS TO GOD FOR HELP&mdash;MONEY
-MIRACULOUSLY PROVIDED&mdash;PRAYER FOR FOOD ANSWERED&mdash;PROVIDENTIAL FINDING
-OF A PAIR OF SHOES ON THE PLAINS&mdash;A CRIPPLED SHOULDER RESTORED WHILE
-DEFENDING THE CHARACTER OF JOSEPH SMITH.
-</p>
-<p>If a record had been kept of all the facts connected with the building
-of the Kirtland and Nauvoo Temples, it would tell a curious story of
-poverty, self-denial, dependence upon God and wants providentially
-supplied.
-</p>
-<p>No doubt such a record has been kept, but not here on earth. We have
-not access to it. But many, very many of those who had the privilege
-of aiding in the work of building those temples have gone to meet that
-record. Some doubtless will meet it with satisfaction, with joy untold;
-others with remorse and self-reproach.
-</p>
-<p>Could the Saints of the present day peruse that record, it would put
-many of them to the blush to think they had done so little in aid of
-such works. They would see that, though they have enjoyed peace and
-plenty, they have done almost nothing towards the temples in our day,
-compared with what the poor Saints did in building those earlier houses
-of God.
-</p>
-<p>The Kirtland Temple was built when the Saints were few in number and
-in great poverty, and though comparatively small in size, the erection
-of such a building by the tithes and voluntary donations of those who
-were faithful, was a very great undertaking. That it was finished in
-so short a time was remarkable, and this fact speaks volumes for the
-devotion of the Saints of that early day.
-</p>
-<p>When the Nauvoo Temple was commenced, the Saints had increased
-considerably in numbers, but were, as a rule, even poorer than in the
-days of Kirtland. They had been persecuted by their enemies, driven
-from their homes and plundered of their property. Finding a temporary
-rest in a bend of the Mississippi river, a locality noted for its
-insalubrity, they had struggled in the midst of malarial sickness and
-severe privations to establish new homes, and had only just begun to
-gather a few comforts around them when they were required by revelation
-from the Lord to build a temple to His name.
-</p>
-<p>Upon that temple, many of the Saints labored month after month, with
-an energy and interest that only religious zeal can impart. They had
-learned something of the use and importance of temples, before that
-building was commenced, but as the work advanced more light was given
-them from time to time. The Prophet of God would visit the workmen and
-instruct and encourage them in their labors personally, frequently
-pronouncing blessings upon their heads for their diligence and
-faithfulness, and when persecution became so strong that he was obliged
-to hide from his enemies, he sent the written word to stimulate them in
-their labors, and explained the doctrine of baptism for the dead, then
-newly revealed.
-</p>
-<p>While living thus in seclusion, he wrote to the Saints in Nauvoo, on
-the 1st of September, 1842: "And again, verily thus saith the Lord,
-let the work of my temple, and all the works which I have appointed
-unto you, be continued on and not cease; and let your diligence, and
-your perseverance, and patience, and your works be redoubled, and you
-shall in nowise lose your reward, saith the Lord of hosts. And if they
-persecute you, so persecuted they the prophets and righteous men that
-were before you. For all this there is a reward in heaven."
-</p>
-<p>Again, on the 6th of the same month, he wrote additional words of
-encouragement, unfolding still farther that glorious saving principle
-as it had been revealed to him, and roused the workmen to action by
-this stirring appeal: "Brethren, shall we not go on in so great a
-cause? Go forward and not backward. Courage, brethren; and on, on to
-the victory! Let your hearts rejoice, and be exceeding glad. Let the
-earth break forth into singing. Let the dead speak forth anthems of
-eternal praise to the King Immanuel, who hath ordained before the world
-was, that which would enable us to redeem them out of their prison; for
-the prisoners shall go free."
-</p>
-<p>Being thus encouraged, and knowing that the time allowed for building
-the house was limited, the men worked with a will and determination
-that made success certain. Though they had to stand guard at night to
-prevent their enemies from surprising the city during the darkness and
-slaying its defenseless inhabitants, they did not cease their exertions
-during the daytime to erect the house of God. Though they went on
-short rations till some of them actually fainted beside their work,
-from sheer hunger and exhaustion, still they persevered. Though the
-mechanics employed upon the temple had tempting offers of abundant work
-and ready pay if they would go outside of Nauvoo and labor, many of
-them preferred to remain and work without pecuniary reward in rearing
-that sacred structure.
-</p>
-<p>The case of one of those workmen will serve to illustrate the
-self-sacrificing disposition manifested by many of those who labored
-upon that building, as well as the way their simple wants were
-sometimes supplied by the Almighty.
-</p>
-<p>Brother L&mdash;arrived in Nauvoo from England, his native country, in
-March, 1844. He was an excellent mechanic, had held good situations and
-been in good circumstances in the "old country," and his skill as a
-workman was such as to command ready employment and high wages in any
-of the large cities of America, had such been his object.
-</p>
-<p>But he had embraced the gospel and received a testimony of its truth,
-and afterwards the spirit of gathering with the Saints, which enabled
-him to brook the taunts and ridicule heaped upon him by friends and
-relatives for his unpopular faith, and resist the pleading of aged
-parents, who were loath to part with him.
-</p>
-<p>His faith and zeal were such that he had left friends and property and
-all that he had formerly held dear, and come to America that he might
-be with the chosen people of God and assist in building up Zion.
-</p>
-<p>He was ambitious to labor upon the temple, and applied for work
-immediately upon his arrival in Nauvoo. When informed that there was
-plenty of work but nothing to pay with, he replied that pay was no
-consideration.
-</p>
-<p>He took hold with a determination, and worked with all the energy with
-which the young, strong and enthusiastic nature was capable from that
-time until the work upon the temple ceased, upwards of two years, and
-during that time only received in cash for his services the small
-amount of fifty cents.
-</p>
-<p>Many a time he felt the pangs of hunger, and went to his work fasting
-rather than join with his family in eating the last ration of food in
-their possession, but the Lord sustained him by His Spirit, gave him
-joy in his labors and provided a way for more food to be obtained to
-sustain the lives of himself and family.
-</p>
-<p>He and his young wife had a habit of appealing to the Almighty in
-prayer when in an extremity, and they invariably found comfort in so
-doing, and generally had their prayers answered.
-</p>
-<p>Upon one occasion, their infant child was dangerously sick, and they
-felt the want of twenty-five cents to procure some medicine with. Where
-to get it they did not know, and so, as usual, they prayed to the Lord
-to open their way to obtain it. They felt an assurance on arising from
-their knees that their prayer would be answered, but they knew not
-how. Soon afterwards the husband happened to feel some hard substance
-in the waistband of his pants, and called his wife's attention to it,
-wondering what it could be. The pants were almost new. They had been
-made to order for him only a short time before. There was no hole
-in the band, and it seemed that, whatever it was, it must have been
-inserted between the pieces of cloth when the pants were being made,
-and yet he thought it strange that he had not discovered it before.
-</p>
-<p>To solve the mystery, a few stitches were cut, and the waistband
-opened, when, lo! there were two new ten cent pieces and one five cent
-piece&mdash;just the amount of money they required to buy medicine with.
-</p>
-<p>Lest the money might have been lost by the tailor who made the pants, a
-very poor man who lived neighbor to them, he took it to him and asked
-him, but that impecunious individual said he knew it could not be his,
-for he had never had a cent of money in his possession for months.
-</p>
-<p>They accepted it as a gift from the Lord, bought the medicine their
-child needed and he was soon well.
-</p>
-<p>When the work on the temple was nearing completion, the food supply for
-the family became entirely exhausted, and there seemed no prospect of
-obtaining any more without quitting the work on the temple and going
-elsewhere for employment. That, of course, Brother L&mdash;was averse to
-doing, and in this, as in other cases of extremity, he and his wife
-retired to their bedroom to lay the matter before the Lord. They had
-scarcely finished their prayer when a knock was heard at the door. On
-opening it, they found a man there who said he desired a particular job
-of work done, which he did not feel like entrusting to anyone else but
-Brother L&mdash;. However, he was in no particular hurry for it, it need
-not be done till the work on the temple was completed, but he wanted
-to arrange and pay for it then, as he was going on a foreign mission.
-"But," said he, "I have nothing to pay you for it but wheat; can you
-use that?"
-</p>
-<p>It was the very thing the family stood most in need of; it was
-gratefully accepted and regarded as a direct answer to their prayer,
-and within a short time the wheat was ground and a good supply of flour
-returned from it.
-</p>
-<p>When the Saints were preparing to leave Nauvoo, wagons for the journey
-were in great demand, and every person among them who had ever worked
-at wagon-making, and very many also who never had, set to work making
-them. Good timber was tolerably plentiful, but iron cost cash, and that
-was a scarce article. All sorts of nonedescript vehicles were hastily
-improvised, many of them so rude in their construction as to put the
-veriest bungler of a wheelwright to the blush for their appearance. Yet
-under the blessing of God they did good service. Some of them, for the
-want of iron, were made almost entirely of wood. In some extreme cases
-they were even made without the usual iron tires, strips of rawhide
-being nailed on the felloes as a substitute. One, at least, of the
-wagons made in this fashion stood the trip across the plains, and was
-used for several years after its arrival in Salt Lake Valley.
-</p>
-<p>Brother L&mdash;had been fortunate enough to get the wood work of a wagon
-made, but how to procure the iron was a question which greatly
-perplexed him. However, he knew that he was engaged in the Lord's
-service, and he felt that he had a claim upon His mercy and blessings.
-Accordingly, he and his wife made their want a subject of earnest
-prayer, and then went on about their duties, trusting in the Lord to
-answer their petition.
-</p>
-<p>Soon afterwards Brother L&mdash;had occasion to go out on the prairie in
-search of his cow, which had strayed off, and during his absence
-encountered a drenching shower, so that when he returned home he found
-it necessary to change his clothing. He hung his wet clothes before
-a fire in the open fireplace to dry, and as he did so a bright gold
-sovereign, a ten and a five cent piece dropped to the floor, apparently
-from his pocket. He knew, however, that he had no money previously, and
-he could account for its presence there only by its having been sent by
-the Lord. It was the exact amount required to purchase the iron for his
-wagon, and it was soon obtained and the wagon finished.
-</p>
-<p>With such manifestations as these of God's goodness, he was encouraged
-to continue in his labors upon the temple of God, and when it was so
-far completed that the holy ordinances for which it was designed could
-be performed in it, he felt repaid in the blessings which he therein
-received for all his efforts towards its construction.
-</p>
-<p>A rather remarkable case of special providence occurred when Brother
-L&mdash;was crossing the plains, coming to Salt Lake Valley. His shoes gave
-out, and his feet became very sore from having to walk so much while
-driving his ox-team, etc. Early one morning, when he, in company with
-another brother, were out hunting for their cattle, he exclaimed to his
-companion as he limped and hobbled over the rocky ground, "Oh! I do
-wish the Lord would send me a pair of shoes!"
-</p>
-<p>He had not walked many rods after expressing this wish when he saw
-something lying a short distance ahead of him, and called the attention
-of his companion to it, who remarked that it must be the bell and strap
-lost off one of the oxen, but to the inexpressible joy of Brother L&mdash;,
-he found, on approaching the object, that it was a new pair of shoes,
-which had evidently never been worn, and which he found, on trying them
-on, to fit him as well as if they had been made for him. He thanked the
-Lord for them, for he felt that it was through His merciful providence
-that they had been left there, and went on his way rejoicing. The shoes
-did him good service.
-</p>
-<p>While alluding to Brother L&mdash;, another incident may be related from his
-experience to illustrate the manner in which the Almighty sustains and
-blesses those who are valiant in defending His cause and the character
-of His anointed servants.
-</p>
-<p>At an early period in the settlement of Salt Lake Valley, Brother
-L&mdash;had a severe attack of inflammatory rheumatism and bilious fever,
-from which he suffered a long time, and which drew his shoulder out of
-place and left him in a very helpless condition. He was in that fix
-for about six months&mdash;able to walk about, but unable to make any use
-whatever of one arm. He could not even dress himself. Surgeons examined
-his shoulder, and assured him that it was out of joint, and urged him
-to have it set. He, however, declined accepting their advice, as he had
-faith that the Lord would make him whole in answer to his prayer.
-</p>
-<p>Living neighbor to him in Salt Lake City, and holding an office to
-which he had been appointed by the vote of the members of the Ward, was
-a man by the name of Gallup, who was a rank apostate at heart, although
-he had a standing in the Church.
-</p>
-<p>In conversation with Brother L&mdash;one day, this man Gallup advocated the
-doctrines of a certain man named Cladden Bishop, who had once belonged
-to the Church but who had apostatized and attempted to start a church
-of his own.
-</p>
-<p>Brother L&mdash;became so disgusted with his false reasoning and bitter,
-malignant spirit that he went to the Bishop of the Ward and made
-complaint about such a man as Gallup being allowed to hold an office in
-the Ward or even a membership in the Church.
-</p>
-<p>The result was, a Priesthood meeting was called and Mr. Gallup was
-cited to appear and state his views upon the subject of religion.
-</p>
-<p>In the course of his speech he declared: "Joseph Smith was a wicked and
-adulterous man; he ate and drank with the drunkard, his lot was cast
-with the hypocrite and unbeliever, and he has gone to hell."
-</p>
-<p>This was too much for Brother L&mdash;to stand, even in his crippled
-condition. He could not tamely submit to hear the character of a man
-assailed whom he loved dearer than his life. Jumping to his feet and
-springing over the benches that stood between him and Mr. Gallup, he
-made for him with the intention of administering summary vengeance.
-Several persons immediately interposed to prevent him from inflicting
-any bodily injury upon Gallup, and it was noticed that he made use
-of his crippled arm, and when the excitement subsided he discovered
-himself that his shoulder had assumed its natural position and that he
-was as well as he ever had been.
-</p>
-<p>Gallup, of course, was cut off from the Church, and thought himself
-fortunate, no doubt, in escaping a castigation, and Brother L&mdash;went
-home rejoicing, and entered his house swinging his arm which had been
-so long useless and shouting for joy, while his wife wept tears of
-gratitude for the goodness of God in bringing about his restoration to
-health and soundness.
-</p>
-
-
-
-<h2><a name="INCIDENTS"></a>INCIDENTS ON THE PLAINS.
-</h2>
-<p class="centered">BY A. M. C.
-</p>
-<h2><a name="ICHAPTERI"></a>CHAPTER I.
-</h2>
-<p class="chapterHeading">ARMY SENT TO UTAH&mdash;MISSIONARIES CALLED HOME&mdash;LARGE NUMBER ASSEMBLE
-AT FLORENCE&mdash;DANGERS OF THE TRIP&mdash;COUNCIL TO DECIDE UPON COURSE OF
-ACTION&mdash;FORTUNATE FOG&mdash;PROVIDENTIAL STORM.
-</p>
-<p>IN 1857, James Buchanan, who was then President of the United States,
-sent an army to this Territory, for the purpose, it was said, of
-punishing the "Mormons" for breaking the laws and doing violence to the
-Judges who had been sent here.
-</p>
-<p>This was the excuse given for the army being sent; but the people of
-the Territory had not violated the laws nor done any injury to any of
-the officers of the Government; they were then, as they ever have been,
-peaceable and law abiding.
-</p>
-<p>The real object for sending the troops here, was to crush out what the
-world called "Mormonism."
-</p>
-<p>The principal men who urged the sending of troops here, were traitors
-in their hearts against the Government, and they hoped by taking these
-steps to divert the attention of the country from their own wicked
-schemes; and also to get the army of the United States out of the way
-by having it sent to this distant region. By accomplishing this, they
-thought they could operate to advantage in bringing about their own
-designs.
-</p>
-<p>The army was kept out at Fort Bridger all that winter and many of the
-officers and soldiers were very angry because they could not come into
-our cities and enjoy themselves at our expense.
-</p>
-<p>When it was found that the army was marching here, and there was likely
-to be trouble, the Elders in Europe and in the United States were
-re-called; but feelings ran so high in the United States against our
-people that it was somewhat dangerous for a man to travel and be known
-as a Mormon. On the plains there were men on the watch for every one
-bearing the name of Latter-day Saint.
-</p>
-<p>It was under these circumstances that the Elders assembled at the
-frontiers to return home. One hundred and ten of them crossed the
-Missouri river in the beginning of May, 1858, at the point formerly
-known as Winter Quarters; at present it is called Florence.
-</p>
-<p>They were anxious to get home, some of them having been absent a year
-and others for three or four years.
-</p>
-<p>There were, in reality, two companies; one composed of Elders returning
-from the United States and Canada, Elder David Brinton being their
-captain, and the Elders returning from Europe, who had Elder John W.
-Berry as their captain. It was deemed advisable, however, in view of
-the troubled and uncertain state of affairs, for both companies to
-travel together.
-</p>
-<p>The writer was in the company of Elders returning from the United
-States, where he had been on a mission for upwards of three years.
-</p>
-<p>We had heard of several of our brethren being taken by the army and
-held under threats, and we knew not what our fate would be were the
-soldiers to get us in their power; for they accused every Latter-day
-Saint of treachery to the Government while they themselves were in
-reality the traitors as the subsequent careers of many of them fully
-proved.
-</p>
-<p>Many thought that, as the roads were all blocked, and carefully watched
-by the troops, when we came in the vicinity of the army we would be
-under the necessity of burning or abandoning our wagons and everything
-that we could not pack on our animals.
-</p>
-<p>Among the brethren was a man whose name was Pope; he had a wife and
-two or three small children. They were very anxious to accompany us,
-and, although the perils we were about to encounter were of a serious
-nature, they could not be induced by anything that could be said to
-them to remain behind. A council of the Elders was held upon their
-case, and it was agreed to permit Brother Pope to accompany us, as well
-as four brethren who proposed walking the entire distance to the Valley.
-</p>
-<p>It was a time that required faith to be exercised, for the affairs of
-the Saints were in a critical condition. We knew, however, that God had
-delivered us when we had relied upon Him, and we united with great zeal
-in imploring His blessing, that He might overrule everything in such a
-manner that we could return in safety to the society of our families
-and friends.
-</p>
-<p>After leaving Winter Quarters we traveled on without interruption until
-we drew near to Fort Kearny. Our road was on the north side of the
-Platte, and Fort Kearney was on the south side. There were troops at
-the Fort and they were on the alert to prevent companies of men or any
-kind of aid passing over the road to help the "Mormons" in Utah; for
-they pretended to look upon our people as public enemies.
-</p>
-<p>It was our custom at such times to hold a council, and take into
-consideration the best course to pursue. The Elders all came together
-and we prayed to the Lord, and asked Him to bestow upon us His Holy
-Spirit and to lead and guide us in our operations. When we unitedly
-decided in council upon pursuing a certain course we always felt that
-that was the mind and will of the Lord unto us.
-</p>
-<p>It was decided at this council that we should avoid attracting the
-attention of the people of the Fort by passing it in the night.
-</p>
-<p>Unfortunately, as it seemed at the time, it rained heavily that evening
-and we were only able to travel until a little past midnight. By that
-time ourselves and our animals were so thoroughly fatigued and the
-night was so dark that we were compelled to stop and tie up for the
-night.
-</p>
-<p>Our reflections were not very pleasant, because we felt sure that when
-morning dawned upon us we would be in full sight of the fort, and
-undoubtedly would receive a visit from the officers and troops.
-</p>
-<p>We awoke with the dawn of day, and instead of being able to see
-the fort, or its occupants being able to see us, we found our camp
-enveloped in a fog, the mist being so dense that it was with difficulty
-we could see each other. We traveled on in the fog until afternoon, by
-which time we were out of sight of the fort.
-</p>
-<p>After leaving this point we had plenty of game, buffalo, antelope,
-etc., and we were able to obtain an abundance of fresh meat, which made
-this part of the journey exceedingly pleasant; for though in an Indian
-country, we had not the fear of the wild and savage red men that we had
-of those of our own color, who professed to be the loyal citizens of
-our government.
-</p>
-<p>As we approached the junction of the North and South Platte, a herd
-of mules passed us. They were being driven in the direction of Fort
-Laramie and were traveling at a much faster gait than we were going.
-The men who were driving them saw us, and we fully expected they would
-carry the intelligence to the fort of our being close by. It was known
-that "Mormon" Elders were returning to the Valley, and the military
-were prepared to stop them, or to otherwise interfere with them.
-</p>
-<p>When within half a day's travel of Fort Laramie, another council was
-called to take into consideration the best course to pursue. We settled
-the matter by determining to rest on Sunday, rise early the following
-morning and pass the fort in daylight, as we felt satisfied the troops
-were informed of our approach by the men who had just passed us.
-</p>
-<p>Monday was a beautiful day; we traveled on without interruption until
-we came in sight of the fort, which was about one o'clock, when one of
-the severest hailstorms any of us had ever seen broke upon us. The hail
-fell so rapidly that our animals could scarcely travel on account of
-their feet balling up with it. Our train had been seen from the fort
-and parties had started to meet us; but when the storm broke upon them,
-they were compelled to retreat to their quarters. The storm was too
-severe for them to remain out in it.
-</p>
-<p>I learned afterwards that when the storm ceased a company of men had
-been sent from Fort Laramie to overtake us. They followed us as far as
-the North Platte bridge, and not being able to reach us at this point,
-they deemed it best to return again to the fort. We were not aware of
-this at the time; but having traveled leisurely from Kearny to Laramie,
-our animals were in much better condition than when we started; and
-fearing that the people at Laramie might make some attempt to stop
-us, we made forced drives until we reached Independence Rock on the
-Sweetwater. Thus the Lord again delivered us from the hands of our
-enemies in a most providential manner; for had it not been for this
-hailstorm it is altogether likely we would have been stopped.
-</p>
-
-
-<h2><a name="ICHAPTERII"></a>CHAPTER II.
-</h2>
-<p class="chapterHeading">APOSTATES MET&mdash;THE CHAPLAIN SEPARATES FROM THE COMPANY TO MEET SOME
-APOSTATES&mdash;AN ADVENTUROUS TRIP&mdash;DISCHACHARGED GOVERNMENT TEAMSTERS
-INDIGNANT AT "MORMONS"&mdash;PLOT TO STEAL THE CHAPLAIN'S HORSE&mdash;ADVICE TO
-THE APOSTATES TO LOOK TO THEIR OWN SAFETY&mdash;MR. STOUT'S COMPASSION FOR
-THE HATCHET-FACED MISSOURIAN&mdash;HOW HIS CONFIDENCE WAS REWARDED&mdash;MEET
-CAPTAIN HATCH&mdash;NEWS OF BUCHANAN'S AMNESTY PROCLAMATION&mdash;EVADE THE ARMY,
-AND REACH THE VALLEY SAFELY.
-</p>
-<p>At the Three Crossings of the Sweetwater we met a company of apostates,
-who were in full retreat from the Valley, unwilling to trust God's
-providence to screen them from the wrath of our enemies, and anxious to
-get back to the States.
-</p>
-<p>The night following we encamped at the eastern end of what is known as
-the Seminole cut-off. The company intended to travel on this cut-off in
-the morning.
-</p>
-<p>That evening the chaplain of our company, a young Elder who had a
-fondness for adventure, proposed that he should travel on the old
-route, for the purpose of meeting a man for whom he had transacted
-some business in the States, and who, he was informed, was returning
-in a company of apostates. Captains Berry and Brinton thought he ought
-not to attempt to go by that route alone; at this, one of the other
-Elders volunteered to accompany him. But when morning came the latter
-had changed his mind; for it had stormed during the night, snow had
-fallen and it still snowed very hard, and he thought the weather too
-disagreeable for so lonely a trip.
-</p>
-<p>Mr. Chaplain, however, in opposition to all remonstrances, was resolved
-to go, and he started out alone, on horseback, taking with him some
-blankets and a few crackers. It was the eleventh day of June&mdash;a strange
-time, you would think, for snow to fall, yet it continued to descend
-until the middle of the afternoon, and was so deep that when he came
-to a place on the Sweetwater, called the Rocky Ridge, he was obliged
-to dismount and lead his pony. It was a lonely trip which he took, and
-through a wild, desolate country; it was with considerable pleasure,
-therefore, that he came in sight of the camp which he sought just as
-the sun was going down.
-</p>
-<p>It was encamped on what is known as Quaking-Aspen Creek. The man whom
-he expected to meet was not in the company; but he found others whom he
-had known, persons who did not love the gospel sufficiently to endure
-the trials promised to the Saints; but were desirous to return to that
-Babylon from which they had been gathered.
-</p>
-<p>When the chaplain rejoined his companions, the Elders, he related
-the incidents of this trip and I was permitted to take the following
-account from his journal:
-</p><blockquote>
-<p> "I had just staked my animal to feed upon the brush in the
- neighborhood of the camp, when a company of discharged Government
- teamsters passed by on their way east, under the guidance of George
- Merrick. On account of the hardships they had endured the previous
- winter, they were very indignant at everybody called "Mormon."
- They had calculated on enjoying themselves at our people's expense
- in the Valley; but instead of that, they had been kept out in the
- mountains all winter, and they were disappointed. An hour later one
- Ephraim Thornton, a young man who, when a boy, in Nauvoo, had been
- a schoolmate of mine, but who was now an apostate, took me aside
- and informed me of a plan which had been arranged to rob me of my
- horse. A discharged Government teamster had sworn to take it, or
- die in the attempt.
-</p>
-<p> "I thanked Mr. Thornton for the information; but I advised him to
- have the camp look to their own affairs, and I would conduct mine,
- adding that I did not fear that teamster's threats, as 'barking
- dogs seldom bite.'
-</p>
-<p> "There was one Mr. Stout in this company, with whom I conversed.
- He was bound for the States, and was accompanied by his wife. He
- told me that he had been successful in raising stock in Cedar
- Valley, and had sold them for the gold to the army he had just
- passed at Fort Bridger. He pointed out to me a young hatchet-faced
- Missourian, with long hair and snake-like appearance, whom he
- represented as a Government teamster, a poor fellow for whom he
- felt compassion and whom he was carrying to his home. It was vain
- for me to advise him not to trust Mr. Hatchet-face too far. He had
- confidence in him; I had none; I would not have trusted him out of
- my sight. My views in relation to him received speedy confirmation;
- for while standing with my back to the fire looking in the
- direction of my pony, I heard Mr. Stout swear very hard at his wife
- for leaving the wagon. His sack of gold, amounting to $1.500 had
- disappeared. An investigation revealed the fact that not only was
- the gold missing, but crackers, blankets, several watches and other
- things, besides a race mare belonging to one Joseph Greenwood, were
- all gone, and with them the poor fellow, the Missourian, for whom
- Mr. Stout had felt so much compassion! It afterwards transpired
- that he had been making his arrangements for flight for several
- days. My advice to Mr. Thornton for the camp to look to their own
- affairs was very timely, as this transaction proved.
-</p>
-<p> "That my horse might not be stolen I made my bed upon the snow,
- holding the bridle in my hand, and my pistols ready for use in my
- belt. But I was undisturbed. I arose in the morning and left the
- camp and its misery to continue my journey towards the home of
- our people. As I left the last crossing of the Sweetwater and was
- ascending the South Pass, I met a company of our brethren, under
- Captain Abram Hatch, going to the North Platte on business. It
- was fortunate that I took this route, for they had word for our
- company which, had I not met them, we would not have received. Upon
- learning where the Elders were, they turned and accompanied me. We
- found the company on the cut-off, five miles from its junction with
- the old road."
-</p></blockquote>
-<p>Our chaplain seemed happy at rejoining us, and from his wearied looks
-and blistered face, we judged he would not soon go again in search of
-apostates. But, as he said in his journal, it was fortunate that he
-had taken that route. The providence of the Lord was in it, and it was
-overruled for our good by his meeting Captain Hatch and companions.
-They brought us President Buchanan's amnesty proclamation, which
-was read, also the intelligence of our people's move South: also
-instructions from President Young to the effect that unless otherwise
-instructed, we were to take the Sublet cut-off to the north until we
-struck Bear river, and then travel on the trail which would lead us to
-the head of Echo Canyon.
-</p>
-<p>From Captain Hatch, also, we learned that it was the intention of Col.
-Albert Sidney Johnson, the commander of the army, to leave Fort Bridger
-the following Monday for the Valley.
-</p>
-<p>But little remains to be said of our journey home after parting with
-Captain Abram Hatch and companions. We had reached the Big Bend on the
-Sandy, when we found that we had passed the Sublet cut-off and were
-where the Kinney cut-off led north. It was decided in council to travel
-on that route.
-</p>
-<p>We soon struck Green river, and as if Providence had arranged affairs
-for us, we found a fine ferry boat tied at the river side, upon which
-we crossed. We continued to travel by this route from this point
-to Bear river, which we crossed in our wagon boxes, there being no
-boat, and swam our horses. Bear river not being very wide, we had no
-difficulty in crossing by this means.
-</p>
-<p>We came into Echo canyon twelve miles west of Yellow Creek. From
-mountaineers whom some of the Elders met, and who were going east with
-supplies to meet the army, we learned that Johnson and the army were
-encamped that night on Yellow Creek. They also informed the brethren
-that a company of two hundred and fifty sappers and miners were ahead
-of us, repairing the road and removing obstructions before the advance
-of the army.
-</p>
-<p>We overtook this company next morning. Had they suspected that we had
-not been seen by the main army, they would very likely have stopped us.
-But they had no idea that we had come by any other route, and therefore
-after asking us how far back the command was, the order was given,
-"Clear the road, boys, and let them pass." From this point we traveled
-on until we reached Salt Lake City without meeting any incident worthy
-of note.
-</p><p></p>
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-<pre>
-
-
-
-
-
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-The Project Gutenberg EBook of Fragments of Experience, by Various
-
-This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most
-other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions
-whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of
-the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at
-www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have
-to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook.
-
-Title: Fragments of Experience
- Sixth Book of the Faith-Promoting Series
-
-Author: Various
-
-Release Date: September 29, 2015 [EBook #50072]
-
-Language: English
-
-Character set encoding: ASCII
-
-*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK FRAGMENTS OF EXPERIENCE ***
-
-
-
-
-Produced by Allie Bowen, Mormon Texts Project Intern
-(MormonTextsProject.org)
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-FRAGMENTS
-
-OF
-
-EXPERIENCE,
-
-
-SIXTH BOOK OF THE
-
-FAITH-PROMOTING SERIES.
-
-Designed for the Instruction and Encouragement of Young Latter-day
-Saints.
-
-
-JUVENILE INSTRUCTOR OFFICE,
-
-Salt Lake City,
-
-1882.
-
-
-
-PREFACE.
-
-In issuing this, the Sixth Book of the FAITH-PROMOTING SERIES, we trust
-that it will meet with the same kind reception that its predecessors
-have. Perhaps no books that have ever been published in our Church have
-become so popular in so short a time as the volumes of this Series
-which have already been issued. They have tended towards supplying a
-want which has long been felt in our community, and we feel assured
-that they have done a great amount of good.
-
-Young minds, as a rule, are not attracted by those publications which
-treat specially upon doctrine. They are usually too profound for young
-people to grasp and fully comprehend the ideas that are contained
-in them. To the person with fully matured mind and well-developed
-reasoning faculties they may appear ever so simple, and even
-fascinating, but to most young people they are uninteresting, to some
-positively distasteful. And yet there is scarcely a child but can be
-taught principle in the form of narrative, wherein the application
-is made for him in scenes from real life, and appreciate it. There
-is no more sure way of instilling into the mind of a child faith in
-God and in the work which He has established upon the earth than by
-illustrating it with incidents from actual experience. The lesson, too,
-is likely to be all the more effective in the persons whose lives are
-held up for examples are those with whom the child is acquainted and in
-whom he has confidence. The lives of many of the Elders of the Church
-of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints abound in incidents which, if
-written and published, would tend to inspire those who might read them
-with faith in God and a spirit of emulation. We hope a more general
-interest may soon be felt throughout our Church in writing up such
-incidents. That the host of children now growing up in the valleys of
-the mountains appreciate and are ready to profit by their perusal there
-can be no doubt.
-
-The FRAGMENTS OF EXPERIENCE herein contained are collected at random,
-but many valuable lessons may be drawn from the incidents narrated, and
-we trust that the seed which they may sow in the hearts of those who
-peruse them will be productive of a rich yield of fruit in the kingdom
-of our Father.
-
-THE PUBLISHER.
-
-
-
-CONTENTS.
-
-HELP PROM THE LORD.
-
-Mission to Illinois when a Boy--Attempt of a Deacon to Put me to
-Shame--Open my Bible to the Passage Required--Prove our Position
-Correct from the Scriptures--Befriended by an Infidel--Preachers
-Assault on the "Frogs"--The "Frog" Replies.
-
-EARLY EXPERIENCE OF A LATTER-DAY SAINT.
-
-Hear the Gospel by Chance--Compunction at Speaking Lightly of
-the Prophet--Join the Church--A New Suit of Clothes--Opposed by
-Relatives--My Old Friend, the Bible--A Dream--Required to Renounce
-"Mormonism" or Leave the House--My Relatives Refuse to Speak to
-me--They Pawn my Clothes--I Recover Them--Violence Used--My Clothes
-Torn--My Mother's Death--My Brothers Quarrel, and call upon me to
-Settle their Difficulties--My Brother Sick--Healed in Answer to my
-Prayer.
-
-DISOBEDIENCE TO COUNSEL.
-
-Driven from my Property by the Mob--Desire to Return and Recover some
-of it--Counseled by the Church Authorities not to Go--Persist in
-Going--Visit a Friendly Family--Amiable Intention of my Debtors--Meet
-two of Them They Threaten my Life--Despair of Getting Anything and Try
-to Start Home--Beaten over the Head with a Pole--Barely Escape with my
-Life--Ashamed to have my Friends Know It--The Lesson I Learned.
-
-LORENZO DOW YOUNG'S NARRATIVE.
-
-CHAPTER I.
-
-My Mother's Promise--Chased by Wolves--A Remarkable Dream--Thrown from
-a Horse--Providentially Saved--Religious Revival--Preachers Try in
-vain to Convert me--Ridiculed for not Playing at Cards--Read Infidel
-Works--Their Effect--A Vision.
-
-CHAPTER II.
-
-Marriage--A Vision of Other Worlds--My Reluctance at Returning to
-a Mortal Existence--A Promise with Conditions--I Exhort Others to
-Faithfulness.
-
-CHAPTER III.
-
-I Take to Preaching--Make Many Converts--Refuse to Baptize
-Them--They are Baptized by a Campbellite Preacher--Urged to Join the
-Campbellites--Refuse, and the Devil Tempts me--I Grieve the Spirit,
-but Regain it Through Fasting and Prayer--Hear the Gospel--Visit from
-Elder Gifford--He is Threatened with Tar and Feathers--My Brother and I
-Defend Him.
-
-CHAPTER IV.
-
-Converted--Start for Missouri--Called to Preach "Mormonism" without
-being Baptized--Join the Church--Voyage to Pittsburg--Preach the
-Gospel and Establish a Branch--Experience as a Trunk-maker--Mission
-to New York--Speak in Tongues--Effects of Preaching Counteracted by
-Lies--Second Voyage Down the Ohio--Providential Delay.
-
-CHAPTER V.
-
-Removal to Kirtland--Work upon the Temple--A Lesson--
-Sickness--Pronounced Incurable by Doctors--Healed in Answer to
-Prayer--Cured of Lameness--Removal to Missouri--Commencement of
-Hostilities--Surrounded by a Mob--Face Death--Rescued.
-
-CHAPTER VI.
-
-Warned to Leave the Country or Renounce "Mormonism"--Wife and Children
-Threatened--A Boy's Pluck--Forced to Flee for our Lives--Property
-Confiscated--Battle of Crooked River--Providentially Saved--Far West
-Besieged--Escape to Iowa--Pursued--Providential Snow Storm.
-
-AN INSTANCE OF DIVINE INTERPOSITION.
-
-Visit to Scotland--Meet Old Friends--Return to Liverpool--About to go
-by Steamer to Bristol--A Voice Warns me not to Go--Turn Back--Short of
-Money--Means Providentially Provided--Journey to Portsmouth--Sequel to
-the Warning--The Steamer Wrecked.
-
-MY LAST MISSION TO THE SANDWICH ISLANDS.
-
-CHAPTER I.
-
-Elders Called Home from the Sandwich Islands--Native Elders Left to
-Preside--Gibson's Arrival in Salt Lake--Joins the Church--Asks for a
-Mission to the Sandwich Islands--His Deep-laid Scheme--Leading Astray
-the Hawaiian Saints--Five Elders Sent to Investigate--Arrival at the
-Sandwich Islands--Attempt to go Ashore in a Boat--Capsized in the
-Surf--Elder Lorenzo Snow Lost--After a Long Search, Found Under the
-Boat--Efforts to Resuscitate Him--Restored to Life One Hour After Being
-Drowned.
-
-CHAPTER II.
-
-Journey to Lanai--Meet Mr. Gibson--Reverence of Natives for Him--His
-Speech and Assumption--Elder Joseph F. Smith's Reply--Elder Snow's
-Prophecy--Mr. Gibson Cut Off the Church--Elder Snow's Prophecy
-Fulfilled--Advised to Select a New Gathering Place--A Vision--Suitable
-Place Pointed Out.
-
-A PROPHECY FULFILLED.
-
-Called on a Mission to the Sandwich Islands--Journey by the
-Southern Route--A Prophecy--Fear After Uttering It--Residence
-in Honolulu--Political and Religious Conflict--The Kingdom in
-Jeopardy--Dissatisfaction Among the People--Letter to the King
-Favorably Considered--A Dream--A Prince sent by the King to Ask Counsel
-of Latter-day Saint Elders--Advice Accepted, and the Kingdom Saved--The
-Dream and Prophecy Fulfilled Together.
-
-SPECIAL PROVIDENCES.
-
-Circumstances under which the Early Temples were Built--How the
-Workmen were Encouraged--Arrival of Brother L---- in Nauvoo--His
-Willingness to Work without Pay--His Extreme Want--Appeals to
-God for Help--Money Miraculously Provided--Prayer for Food
-Answered--Providential Finding of a Pair of Shoes on the Plains--A
-Crippled Shoulder Restored while Defending the Character of Joseph
-Smith.
-
-INCIDENTS ON THE PLAINS.
-
-CHAPTER I.
-
-Army Sent to Utah--Missionaries Called Home--Large Number Assembled
-at Florence--Dangers of Trip--Council to Decide Upon Course of
-Action--Fortunate Fog--Providential Storm.
-
-CHAPTER II.
-
-Apostates Met--The Chaplain Separates From the Company to Meet some
-Apostates--An Adventurous Trip--Discharged Government Teamsters
-Indignant at "Mormons"--Plot to Steal the Chaplain's Horse--Advice to
-the Apostates to Look to Their Own Safety--Mr. Stout's Compassion for
-the Hatchet-faced Missourian--How His Confidence was Rewarded--Meet
-Captain Hatch--News of Buchanan's Amnesty Proclamation--Evade the Army
-and Reach the Valley in Safety.
-
-
-
-HELP FROM THE LORD
-
-By C.
-
-MISSION IN ILLINOIS WHEN A BOY--ATTEMPT OF A DEACON TO PUT ME TO
-SHAME--OPEN MY BIBLE TO THE PASSAGE REQUIRED--PROVE OUR POSITION
-CORRECT FROM THE SCRIPTURES--BEFRIENDED BY AN INFIDEL--PREACHER'S
-ASSAULT ON THE "FROGS"--THE "FROG" REPLIES.
-
-In the year 1845, I was appointed on a mission from Nauvoo, to labor
-about Cass County, Illinois, in company with Theodore Curtis.
-
-After traveling together we concluded to separate, and I continued
-alone, preaching wherever an opportunity presented itself.
-
-One evening I was approaching a little town called Virginia, foot-sore
-and weary, having been frequently denied food.
-
-I retired, as was my wont particularly when so impressed, for prayer,
-and for God to soften the hearts of those I might meet, to give me
-shelter, food and rest, and finally to open up my way.
-
-Towards evening I found a number of persons congregated at the country
-store. I saluted them with "Good-evening," and inquired the opportunity
-of getting a chance to preach in that place.
-
-I carried the badge of a "Mormon" preacher in my hand, namely, a small
-round valise, containing a shirt, change of socks, Bible and hymn book.
-I was soon assured by one or two that there was no earthly show for a
-"Mormon" preacher to be heard in that place.
-
-I replied, "I would like to preach in that nice, newly-finished
-meeting-house just opposite." A man spoke up quite authoritatively, and
-said that no "Mormon" should preach in that house, which had just been
-dedicated--I think for Presbyterian worship.
-
-They termed this man the deacon. This produced considerable talk,
-for many of the crowd were of what is termed the liberal or infidel
-persuasion, so much so that the deacon was overwhelmed by argument,
-shame and reproach, for refusing a boy like me a chance to preach.
-
-To cover his shame and to nonplus me, he remarked, "I have heard say
-that your preachers are pretty apt with the scriptures, and can produce
-almost any doctrine you like from the Bible." I replied that the men
-were, but that I was but a boy; yet I thought I knew a little of the
-scriptures.
-
-He remarked "Your people believe in laying hands on the sick; don't
-you?"
-
-I answered that we did, and because Christ had said in His remarkable
-commission to His apostles, that this was one of the signs following,
-quoting Mark xvi, 15-18. I also quoted James v., 14.
-
-"Yes, yes;" says he, "that is all very good, but that says only once,
-and your Elders sometimes lay hands twice in succession on the same
-person. Whoever heard of Jesus or the apostles doing anything like
-that?" He then cited an instance where, as he said, Joseph Smith had
-done this in administering to a sick woman.
-
-The good-natured excitement was intense. The deacon thought I was
-overwhelmed, and proposed that if I could prove a similar transaction
-from the scriptures, I might preach in that house that very night.
-
-Eagerness now seized the men, and the deacon chuckled over his presumed
-victory, and boasted of his acquaintance with the "Blessed Word."
-
-I unbuckled my valise, drew forth my little Bible, and opened it
-intuitively to this passage in Mark viii., 22-25: "And he cometh to
-Bethsaida; and they bring a blind man unto him, and besought him to
-touch him. And he took the blind man by the hand, * * * and put his
-hands upon him, and asked him if he saw aught. And he looked up, and
-said, I see men as trees, walking. After that he put his hands _again_
-upon his eyes, and made him look up: and he was restored, and saw every
-man clearly."
-
-The reading of this scripture; the sudden finding of it, for I was led
-to it as clearly as a man leads his horse to the water; its aptness and
-conclusiveness, accompanied by the jeers of the infidel portion of the
-crowd, mortified the deacon--he was discomfited.
-
-I remarked that I would, according to the deacon's terms, preach in the
-church that evening, provided some one would find candles. The candles
-were instantly offered, and accordingly, I preached with power and the
-demonstration of the Spirit.
-
-After the close of the services, I found a resting place with one of
-the most avowed infidels of the neighborhood, who had listened to the
-talk between the deacon and myself, and who particularly enjoyed the
-good man's discomfiture. By his persuasion I staid some time in the
-neighborhood, occupying occasionally the school-house.
-
-He even proffered me some land to build me a house if I would stay,
-preach and teach school; but my mind was bent on returning to Nauvoo.
-
-But one evening, when I had been preaching my intended farewell
-sermon in the closely-packed school-house, and just at its close, a
-person arose and said that, God willing, he would deliver a discourse
-there the next Sunday, and expose the "Mormon" delusion, giving his
-announcement all the force and emphasis possible.
-
-My friends gathered at my place of stopping, and, joining with my host,
-prevailed upon me to stay. The word was given out that I had gone to
-Nauvoo.
-
-At the time appointed a great crowd had convened--time, early
-candle-light.
-
-I arrived late, purposely. My friend and I took seats near the door.
-
-The preacher, after preliminaries, opened the Bible, and, for his text,
-read the 13th and 14th verses of the 16th chapter of Revelations.
-
-After dilating upon the swampy nature of the soil contiguous to Nauvoo,
-styling it a good place for frogs, and facetiously comparing it to the
-"mouth of the dragon," he came down heavily on the "false prophet," the
-miracles, etc. It was a most scathing rebuke on "Mormonism."
-
-His final peroration was on the habits of the frogs, which, while no
-footsteps were heard, croaked and croaked, but at the first sound of
-an approaching footstep, dodged their heads beneath the water. "So,"
-said he, at the same time rising to the sublime hight of his oratory,
-"where, oh where is the frog that croaked here a day or two ago? Gone
-to that slough of iniquity, Nauvoo, the seat of the dragon and the
-false prophet. Why has he fled? Because he heard the footsteps of your
-true shepherd." After much interlarding, he dismissed by prayer.
-
-I immediately arose and said that the frog was there yet, and would
-croak once more, naming the time.
-
-Shouts from the audience named that same evening as the time, and the
-reverend preacher, amid jeers, cheers and cries of, "Give the boy a
-chance!" made for the one door.
-
-My friend was alive to the emergency, and I, nothing loth, opened a
-fusilade from I. Timothy, 4th chapter, while the preacher was hemmed in
-by the crowd, and my friend with his back to the door.
-
-After an exhaustive testimony of the work, we all departed, some
-pleased, some chagrined.
-
-In both of the instances here narrated, the opening of the Bible to the
-apt and confirmatory passages, were then to my mind clearly the answer
-to prayer, for if ever previously read they had escaped my memory.
-
-How much good I did on that mission, I cannot guess. One thing I do
-know, as a general rule not many are truly converted by the clamor of
-crowds, or the frenzy of debates.
-
-My object in giving these two instances is to incite my young brethren
-to a study of the scriptures, the necessity of earnest secret prayer,
-and confidence in the promise that at the hour and time God will help
-them, and bring them off victoriously.
-
-Great care must be taken to give God the glory in your after prayer,
-"for no flesh can glory in his sight."
-
-Enconiums should produce humility, lest we be puffed up, and, in an
-after time, display our complete nothingness.
-
-
-
-EARLY EXPERIENCE OF A LATTER-DAY SAINT.
-
-HEAR THE GOSPEL BY CHANCE--COMPUNCTION AT SPEAKING LIGHTLY OF
-THE PROPHET--JOIN THE CHURCH--A NEW SUIT OF CLOTHES--OPPOSED BY
-RELATIVES--MY OLD FRIEND, THE BIBLE--A DREAM--REQUIRED TO RENOUNCE
-"MORMONISM" OR LEAVE THE HOUSE--MY RELATIVES REFUSE TO SPEAK TO
-ME--THEY PAWN MY CLOTHES--I RECOVER THEM--VIOLENCE USED--MY CLOTHES
-TORN--MY MOTHER'S DEATH--MY BROTHERS QUARREL AND CALL UPON ME TO SETTLE
-THEIR DIFFICULTIES--MY BROTHER SICK--HEALED IN ANSWER TO MY PRAYER.
-
-The substance of the following little sketch was told to the writer by
-the subject of it, who is an Elder in the Church, and lives in Salt
-Lake City. His name is Robert P--k. We give it in words as near his own
-as we can remember.
-
-I was born and reared in the city of Glasgow, Scotland. I passed my
-boyhood without thinking much on religious matters, till I was about
-eighteen years of age. At this period of my life I was walking along
-what is called the Green, a kind of public park, when my attention was
-attracted by some men discussing publicly the principles of religion.
-One of them was a Baptist, and I could see that he had the best of the
-argument, baptism by immersion being a Bible doctrine. This was on
-Sunday evening.
-
-After listening to the discussion for some time, I was attracted to a
-place where another man was preaching. This one proved to be an Elder
-of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
-
-I was so struck with the principles he advanced, that I drank down
-greedily every word he spoke, and on hearing him tell where the
-meeting-house of the Latter-day Saints was situated, I went there. I
-was, however, too bashful to go inside, but I walked back and forth
-around the building, listening and catching whatever words I could.
-
-I was out later than usual that night, and when I got home I was
-questioned as to the cause of my absence, by my mother (my father had
-been dead many years) and brothers. I said I had been to hear the
-"Mormons."
-
-"Who are the Mormons?"
-
-"Why, the followers of Joe Smith," said I. But I had no sooner said
-this than a sharp pang shot through me, and I felt condemned for
-speaking thus irreverently of the prophet. I did it because I thought
-it would excuse me in the eyes of my relatives. I knew I had done
-wrong, for, young as I was, I felt deeply impressed with the idea
-that Joseph Smith was a prophet of God. As it was, I was severely
-reprimanded for staying out so late.
-
-Shortly after this I went to meeting and heard Elder John Taylor speak
-on the setting up of the kingdom of God in the latter days, which did a
-great deal towards convincing me that the Lord had revealed the gospel
-in this age. After attending meeting for some time, I was finally
-baptized into the Church, and was filled with joy because I knew that I
-was indeed a member of the true Church of Christ.
-
-Knowing that if my mother and four brothers discovered that I had
-joined the Church I would have no peace at home, I kept the matter
-secret from them. I was but an apprentice and only earning the small
-sum of three shillings a week (equal to seventy-five cents) and was,
-therefore, somewhat dependent on my relatives.
-
-I was about to get my wages raised a shilling a week, and my eldest
-brother, Hugh, proposed that he should get me a suit of clothes, and I
-pay this shilling a week until the suit was paid for, so that I might
-go to church with the rest of the family.
-
-I was glad to exchange, on Sundays, my old, patched, shabby working
-suit for some respectable clothing, and it was agreed to.
-
-On the following Sunday morning I went to meeting as usual, and was
-complimented by the President of the Branch on my improved personal
-appearance. When I got home in the evening the first question asked of
-me was,
-
-"Where have you been?"
-
-"I have been to meeting."
-
-"What meeting?"
-
-"I have been to hear the Latter-day Saints."
-
-At this there was a perfect storm about my ears. I went and got the old
-family Bible, and laid down the "law and the testimony."
-
-In answer to all they would say, I quoted and read from the Bible. I
-explained the principles of the gospel of Jesus, and the strongest
-argument any of them used was in each picking up his hat and walking
-out.
-
-On the following day (Monday) I felt somewhat timid about going home
-in the evening, for I had dreamed on the Sunday night that my brothers
-were plotting to turn me out of the house.
-
-However, home I went, and just as I approached the door I heard their
-voices in conversation, and they were saying they would ask me which
-I would choose, to leave "Mormonism" or the house; and John, who was
-always more rabid and unkind than the rest, said he would not even let
-me eat my supper until I had decided what I should do.
-
-I walked boldly in, sat down, and commenced eating supper. They sat
-silent for a short time, when finally Hugh put the question to me as to
-whether I would renounce "Mormonism," for if I did not I would have to
-leave the house.
-
-I again brought down my old friend, the family Bible, and said:
-"Hugh, if you will prove to me from that sacred book that I am wrong
-in adhering to 'Mormonism,' or rather the gospel of Christ, I will
-renounce it; and if I show you that you are wrong in adhering to Church
-of Scotland, then you should leave that."
-
-I then talked upon the scriptures and the principles of the gospel, and
-they could bring forward no reasonable objections to what I advanced.
-
-Hugh rose to his feet and said: "If father had been alive he would have
-kicked you out of the house."
-
-I answered: "Father is now rejoicing because of my having embraced the
-gospel of Jesus."
-
-At this rejoinder the anger of my brothers increased; and Hugh used his
-old argument of picking up his hat and walking out.
-
-I was induced to make this remark in relation to my father, because on
-the previous Sunday I had heard the doctrine of baptism and salvation
-for the dead preached by Elder John Lyon. While listening to him I was
-so filled with joy and gratitude at the prospect of doing something
-towards the salvation of my father, who had died without a knowledge of
-the gospel, that the tears chased each other down my face like rain. It
-was the first time I had heard the principles by which the grand chain
-which shall link the great human family together will be formed.
-
-Seeing that threats and abuse availed nothing, making no impression
-upon me, my mother and brothers took another course: they would not
-speak to me.
-
-Although I lived in the same house and ate at the same table with them,
-they uttered not a word to me, and would not answer me when I spoke to
-them.
-
-Even my mother's heart seemed entirely hardened towards me, and it
-often cut me keenly when she would meet me on the street and pass
-without speaking.
-
-Notwithstanding all this I rejoiced in the gospel exceedingly, feeling
-that the cause of God was more dear to me than my nearest relatives.
-
-On the next Sunday I went to the drawer where my best suit was usually
-kept, and discovered that it was gone. They had not even left me a
-clean shirt. Nothing daunted, however, I buttoned up my shabby, old,
-every-day coat, and marched off to meeting, feeling that I could
-worship God just as fervently and acceptably in an old suit as in a new
-one.
-
-Instead of handing over my wages to my mother as I usually did, I kept
-them every week, and announced at home my intention of doing so until
-my clothes were returned to me, thinking this would induce them to give
-them up.
-
-However, I happened to come home one day at an unusual time, and in
-turning over some articles to get something I wanted, I came upon a
-ticket which at once explained where my clothes had gone. They had been
-pawned.
-
-That this term may be understood, it may be well to say that they were
-deposited in a place where money is loaned on goods, and when the
-money is returned, with an additional sum as interest, the goods are
-delivered back to the owner.
-
-I took this ticket, and with my wages which I had saved, and a little
-money which I had borrowed, I went to the pawnbroker's and got my
-clothes, and left them, for safe keeping, at the house of a brother in
-the Church.
-
-I dressed up on the following Sunday and presented myself at home at
-dinner time, when my brothers manifested no small astonishment and a
-little shame on seeing that I had discovered their trick.
-
-I had forgotten to say that on several occasions after I had dressed
-for meeting, my brothers would attempt to stop me from going, by main
-force, and several times in their efforts to keep me in, had torn the
-breast out of my shirt, but I invariably succeeded in getting out, and
-when my shirt was torn I would button up my coat and go to meeting.
-
-Matters went on in this way for over two years, during which time I
-had been frequently told to leave the house and never enter it again.
-I paid no attention to this. On being told to go on one occasion,
-however, I said the next time I was ordered off I would go.
-
-Not long afterwards my mother told me to leave the house forever, and I
-announced my intention of doing so on the Sunday following.
-
-When Saturday came I proceeded to tie up my clothes in a bundle. No
-sooner did they see me doing this than they seized my clothing, and
-tore up my shirts and several other articles.
-
-On former occasions when I had been thus abused, it was my custom to
-resist, but this time this disposition had departed; my heart was full;
-I pitied them for their blindness, and I felt like weeping tears of
-sorrow.
-
-I made my way out of the house as best I could, with my wardrobe
-reduced to a single pair of pants, besides the clothes I wore at the
-time. As I was leaving I told them that the course they had taken
-towards me would bring them no good. My mind was filled with grief and
-I slept none that night.
-
-Six weeks after this my mother burst a blood vessel, from the effect
-of which she never recovered, being ill from that time till her death,
-which occurred a year afterwards. This broke up the family.
-
-Hugh married, and my three other brothers, John, George and William
-went to live with him. Some time afterwards John came to me and told me
-they had quarrelled, and he wished me to go and settle matters between
-the brothers, which I did, and the result was that John lived apart
-from the others.
-
-William, who was the most peaceable and amiable of my brothers, was
-taken very ill, and one evening I was impressed to go and see him. I
-found all the members of the family gathered around him, as he was not
-expected to live through the night.
-
-After everybody had left the room but myself, he said to me, "Robert,
-do you believe I shall die to-night?"
-
-I said: "No, I do not."
-
-"I ask you because the others are hypocrites, for when I ask whether
-they think I will die, they say, 'No, you will live,' and then I hear
-them in the adjoining room arranging how they will dress me when I am
-dead."
-
-He fell asleep, and I laid hands upon him and administered to him in
-the name of Jesus Christ, and when he awoke he was much better, and he
-lived for four months after this.
-
-This is a little of my first experience as a Latter-day Saint. Nearly
-every true disciple of Jesus has passed through circumstances that are
-instructive, although trying at the time they occur, and sometimes the
-relating of such things has a good effect, however simple the narrative
-may be.
-
-
-
-DISOBEDIENCE TO COUNSEL.
-
-BY ANSON CALL.
-
-DRIVEN FROM MY PROPERTY BY THE MOB--DESIRE TO RETURN AND RECOVER SOME
-OF IT--COUNSELED BY THE CHURCH AUTHORITIES NOT TO GO--PERSIST IN
-GOING--VISIT A FRIENDLY FAMILY--AMIABLE INTENTION OF MY DEBTORS--MEET
-TWO OF THEM--THEY THREATEN MY LIFE--DESPAIR OF GETTING ANYTHING AND TRY
-TO START HOME--BEATEN OVER THE HEAD WITH A POLE--BARELY ESCAPE WITH MY
-LIFE--ASHAMED TO HAVE MY FRIENDS KNOW IT--THE LESSON I LEARNED.
-
-To some persons it may appear strange that the Elders of the Church
-in their addresses to the Saints, should so frequently dwell upon the
-necessity of constant obedience to counsel. But although this may seem
-strange, still the experience of both the Elders and the Saints goes to
-prove that "to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the
-fat of rams."
-
-The Bible, the Book of Mormon and the Book of Doctrine and Covenants
-contain many instances of the blessings that have attended obedience,
-and the serious consequences that have followed disobedience.
-
-I will not, however, refer to any one of these divine books; but
-will give my readers an instance of the consequence of disobedience
-which occurred to me in my early experience in the Church, in the
-commencement of the year 1839.
-
-At that time I was living with the Saints in Far West, though I owned
-property, which I had been driven from, at the Three Forks of Grand
-River, distant from Far West about thirty miles.
-
-As I wished to learn whether I could dispose of this property or not, I
-asked Father Joseph Smith and President Brigham Young for counsel about
-visiting Grand River for this purpose. They counselled me not to go;
-but to stay at home.
-
-I had been driven from my property by the mob that came against the
-Saints, and as the Saints were obliged to leave the State I desired
-to go with them to Illinois. But I did not want to be burdensome to
-others. If I could sell my property on Grand River I would not be, so I
-concluded that there could not be much harm in my going to Grand River,
-and I set out.
-
-How I succeeded the following extract from my journal will show.
-
-December 31, 1838, being anxious to obtain means to make a team, that
-I might be able to go with the Saints, I this morning mounted the only
-horse I had left, and started for the Three Forks of Grand River.
-
-I arrived at my farm on new year's day, and learned that a man by the
-name of George Washington O'Niel had it in his possession.
-
-I passed on two miles further to a family by the name of Day, who had
-come in from the Eastern States a few weeks before I was driven away.
-This family had taken no part with the mob. I found the lady at home,
-and received from her a history of my property. She informed me that
-O'Niel and Culp, Missouri mobbers, had said that if ever I came to the
-place they would kill me; and that one Henderson and others would help
-them.
-
-When on my farm I had sold store goods to a number of the citizens,
-who were to pay me for them at Christmas. She said she had heard many
-of them say that if I came there, they would pay me just as "Mormons"
-should be paid.
-
-Just at this time O'Niel and Culp came into the house. They demanded
-of me my reasons for being there. I told them that I was attending to
-my business. They said I had no business there, and if I got away from
-there I would be smart.
-
-I replied that I was white man, that it was time enough to be afraid
-when I saw danger, and that I should go when I pleased.
-
-They told me that they would as soon kill me as a dog, and that there
-would be no more notice taken of my death than if a dog were killed.
-This I very well understood.
-
-They then told me that they supposed I had come to get my property.
-
-I informed them I had; to which they replied that there was no property
-for me.
-
-After repeated threatenings I became convinced that it was in vain
-to think of obtaining anything, and started for my horse, which was
-hitched at the yard fence about five rods from the door.
-
-They followed me. O'Niel picked up the end of a hoop pole which Mr.
-Day had left there, he having been hooping a barrel. With this pole he
-struck me a blow upon the head, which nearly brought me to the ground.
-I looked around for a club with which to defend myself, but there was
-none in sight. He continued striking me, and would doubtless have
-killed me, had it not been for a very thick woolen cap on my head.
-
-Mrs. Day threw open the door and cried murder. I ran for the house to
-get something, if possible, to defend myself with; but before I reached
-the door, he struck me repeatedly, and gave me one blow over the eye,
-the scar of which I carry to this day.
-
-As soon as I got into the house I clutched the fire shovel. At that
-moment Mrs. Day closed the door, so that I could not get out nor O'Niel
-in. He and Culp then passed the window, on which Mrs. Day supposed they
-had started for their guns, so I mounted my horse and rode for Far West
-as fast as I could.
-
-My head and face soon commenced swelling. On my way home I washed
-myself, and resolved not to inform any one what had happened, as Father
-Smith and President Young had both told me not to go.
-
-I reached home about eleven o'clock at night, and went to bed without
-making a light. In the morning I arose, and just as soon as I got out
-of bed, I fell upon the floor. My wife was alarmed and screamed. I told
-her what had happened; but told her to keep the matter from my family.
-Father Smith, however, soon heard of the occurrence, and came to see
-me. He hoped, he said, that the lesson would do me good, and that he
-was glad that I was not quite killed.
-
-Had I obeyed the words "do not go, but stay at home," I should not have
-fallen into this trouble. May you who read this be wise, and in this
-particular, profit by my experience.
-
-
-
-LORENZO DOW YOUNG'S NARRATIVE.
-
-CHAPTER I.
-
-MY MOTHER'S PROMISE--CHASED BY WOLVES--A REMARKABLE DREAM--THROWN FROM
-A HORSE--PROVIDENTIALLY SAVED--RELIGIOUS REVIVAL--PREACHERS TRY IN
-VAIN TO CONVERT ME--RIDICULED FOR NOT PLAYING AT CARDS--READ INFIDEL
-WORKS--THEIR EFFECT--A VISION.
-
-I was born October 19th, 1807, in the town of Smyrna, Chenango County,
-New York.
-
-My mother was afflicted many years with consumption. I remember her
-as a fervent, praying woman. She used, frequently, to call me to her
-bedside and counsel me to be a good man, that the Lord might bless my
-future life. On one occasion, she told me that if I would not neglect
-to pray to my Heavenly Father, He would send a guardian angel to
-protect me in the dangers to which I might be exposed.
-
-She had so trained me to trust in God, that, even in my early youth, I
-seemed capable of grasping, in my faith, the prophetic promise she had
-made. It sank deep into my heart, and ever since has been an anchor of
-hope in the difficulties and dangers to which I have been exposed.
-
-This pious, faithful, friend and mother, drooped and died on the 11th
-of June, 1814.
-
-Soon after her death, my father broke up housekeeping, and I was sent
-about sixty miles to live with my brother-in-law, John P. Green, near
-Cayuga Bridge.
-
-It was a marshy, malarious country, and I was taken very sick with
-fever and ague, with which I suffered severely. In the fall of 1815,
-we removed to Tyrone, Schuyler County. In the meantime, my father had
-taken up some land on which to make a home, about six miles from where
-Mr. Green lived. This country, at that time, was new, and there was
-nothing but a dense forest between Mr. Green's house and my father's.
-The wolves were very numerous in this forest. At one time, several of
-them chased me to Mr. Green's house, and I seemed to barely escape with
-my life.
-
-During the winter of 1815-16, in company with my brothers, Joseph,
-Phinehas and Brigham, I worked for my father and assisted him to clear
-off some land.
-
-In the autumn of 1816, when about nine years old, I had a peculiar
-dream. I thought I stood in an open, clear space of ground, and saw a
-plain, fine road, leading, at an angle of 45 degrees, into the air, as
-far as I could see. I heard a noise like a carriage in rapid motion, at
-what seemed the upper end of the road. In a moment it came in sight.
-It was drawn by a pair of beautiful, white horses. The carriage and
-harness appeared brilliant with gold. The horses traveled with the
-speed of the wind. It was made manifest to me that the Savior was in
-the carriage, and that it was driven by His servant. The carriage
-stopped near me, and the Savior inquired where my brother Brigham was.
-After informing Him, He further inquired about my other brothers, and
-our father. After I had answered His inquiries, He stated that He
-wanted us all, but He especially wanted my brother Brigham. The team
-then turned right about, and returned on the road it had come.
-
-I awoke at once, and slept no more that night. I felt frightened,
-and supposed we were all going to die. I saw no other solution to
-the dream. It was a shadowing of our future which I was then in no
-condition to discern.
-
-In the morning I told my father the dream, and my fears that we were
-going to die. He comforted me with the assurance that he did not think
-my interpretation was correct.
-
-In the winter of 1817-18, I went to live with my brother-in-law, James
-Little, in the town of Aurelius, Cayuga County, New York. I remained
-there about five years, learning the business of a gardener and fruit
-raiser.
-
-In the summer of my twelfth year, I was placed upon a race horse by
-Mr. Little, and sent on an errand. The animal was too spirited for a
-boy of my age to safely ride. It became frightened and unmanageable.
-It turned so rapidly around that I was thrown out of the saddle. As I
-fell my bare foot slipped through the iron stirrup, where I hung with
-my head just touching the ground. With my left hand, I still grasped
-the bridle rein, on that side, firmly. The horse endeavored to kick me,
-but, fortunately, did not succeed on account of my being too close to
-him. My hold on the bridle rein prevented the animal from running away
-and caused him to whirl around almost in a circle.
-
-In danger we often think with great rapidity. I comprehended my
-situation in a moment, and, at first, could see no way of escape from
-having my brains dashed out. But, as I hung, I was suddenly impressed
-to get hold of the stirrup with my right hand, and make an effort to
-raise myself up, so as to get my foot loose from it. By a great effort
-I succeeded in drawing myself up, and slipping the stirrup over my
-foot. I then let go all hold and fell to the ground.
-
-The horse went at full speed for home and his stable. I got up and was
-not much hurt.
-
-The promise my mother made me flashed into my mind, and I felt thankful
-to the Lord that I had been preserved from serious harm by a kind
-providence.
-
-In the winter of 1819-20, I left Aurelius and went about twenty miles
-to Hector, Schuyler County. A Methodist revival occurred in that town,
-and religious excitement ran so high that it became fashionable to make
-a profession of religion.
-
-So far as I knew, every young person in the neighborhood but myself
-professed to receive "a saving change of heart" before the close of the
-revival.
-
-As was usual during such periods of religious excitement, meetings were
-held nightly. In these meetings it was the custom to request those who
-were "seeking religion," to come forward to some seat reserved for the
-purpose, to be prayed for.
-
-I was somewhat affected by the intense religious feeling. One evening,
-I attended a meeting presided over by Elder Gilmore, the leading
-minister. Two or three other preachers were also present. The usual
-invitation was given for penitents to come forward to the "anxious
-seat."
-
-Some time was spent in prayer, when all who had come forward, except
-myself, professed to have a "change of heart." The meeting was closed,
-and Elder Gilmore proposed that those who were willing to do so, should
-retire to a private house with me, and continue in prayer till I was
-converted.
-
-As proposed, we retired to a neighboring house, where the praying
-continued until two o'clock in the morning.
-
-Elder Gilmore then asked me if I had not received a "change of heart."
-
-I replied that I had not realized any "change."
-
-After so much fruitless labor, they were evidently disposed to give me
-up as a reprobate. Elder Gilmore told me that I had sinned away the day
-of grace, and my damnation was sure. He asserted that he would never
-offer another prayer for me.
-
-Although religious in my nature, even at that early age, sectarian
-religion seemed empty and void.
-
-The following morning, I left the scene of this religious excitement
-in Hector and returned to Cayuga County, about three miles from
-Auburn. There I went to work for Mr. Monroe, to learn the trade of a
-blacksmith. He carried on considerable business, and employed a number
-of young men and apprentices.
-
-One evening, Mr. Monroe and the workmen gathered around the center
-table, in the sitting room, to while away the evening in a game of
-cards. Mr. Monroe invited me to participate.
-
-My father had counseled me never to play a game of cards. "Not," said
-he, "that there is any particular harm in playing a game of cards, but
-card-playing has a tendency to lead those who follow it into other
-vices."
-
-I determined, at the time, to keep his counsel should it cost me my
-situation. Mr. Monroe did not appear disposed to receive any apology
-for not accepting his invitation. I arose, took a Bible that was near
-me, and read during the evening while the remainder of the company
-played cards.
-
-The most of Mr. Monroe's workmen were inclined to infidelity, and the
-course I took that evening, afterwards brought upon me much annoyance
-and ridicule.
-
-Although infidel in principle, Mr. Monroe was kind to those around him,
-and manifested that kindness to me as well as others. He placed in
-my hands several infidel books. Among them, I recollect the writings
-of Voltaire and Thomas Payne. My experience at this time, taught me
-that skeptical works cannot be read without leaving their impression
-on the mind. A continuation of reading them must, eventually, lead to
-confirmed infidelity.
-
-The teachings of my pious parents had given me considerable faith in
-God, and I enjoyed some of His Spirit. It has since been evident to me,
-that the reading of those infidel books stirred up an antagonism in me
-between the Spirit of truth and the spirit of skepticism. The struggle
-between them, in my bosom, continued about a year, and was a source of
-great affliction to me. The Lord, through His Spirit, was trying to
-save me from error and darkness.
-
-I would advise all my young friends, and especially those who have had
-the testimony of the Spirit of truth, to never, by any act of theirs,
-invite the spirit of infidelity into their hearts, lest they fall away
-into darkness, and go down to death.
-
-I remained with Mr. Monroe nearly two years. I injured myself lifting a
-log, and it was evident that I could not again work at the blacksmith
-business for some time. For this reason I left Mr. Monroe, and went to
-visit Mr. J. P. Green, who lived in Watertown, about one hundred miles
-from Auburn, in Jefferson County.
-
-For sometime my health continued poor. One day I lay on a bed to rest
-where I could see the family in their ordinary occupations. All at
-once I heard the most beautiful music. I soon discovered from whence
-it came. Standing side by side, on the foot board of the beadstead on
-which I lay, were two beautiful, seraph-like beings, about the size
-of children seven or eight years old. They were dressed in white, and
-appeared surpassingly pure and heavenly. I felt certain that I was
-fully awake, and these juvenile personages were realistic to me. With
-their disappearance the music ceased. I turned and asked two of my
-sisters, who were in the room, if they had not heard the music. I was
-much surprised to learn that they had heard nothing.
-
-
-
-CHAPTER II
-
-MARRIAGE--A VISION OF OTHER WORLDS--MY RELUCTANCE AT RETURNING TO
-A MORTAL EXISTENCE--A PROMISE WITH CONDITIONS--I EXHORT OTHERS TO
-FAITHFULNESS.
-
-While at Watertown, I married, and afterwards removed to Mendon, Monroe
-County. At this place I had a remarkable dream or vision. I fancied
-that I died. In a moment I was out of the body, and fully conscious
-that I had made the change. At once, a heavenly messenger, or guide,
-was by me. I thought and acted as naturally as I had done in the body,
-and all my sensations seemed as complete without as with it. The
-personage with me was dressed in the purest white. For a short time I
-remained in the room where my body lay. My sister Fanny (who was living
-with me when I had this dream) and my wife were weeping bitterly over my
-death. I sympathized with them deeply in their sorrow, and desired to
-comfort them. I realized that I was under the control of the man who
-was by me. I begged of him the privilege of speaking to them, but he
-said he could not grant it. My guide, for so I will call him, said "Now
-let us go."
-
-Space seemed annihilated. Apparently we went up, and almost instantly
-were in another world. It was of such magnitude that I formed no
-conception of its size. It was filled with innumerable hosts of beings,
-who seemed as naturally human as those among whom I had lived. With
-some I had been acquainted in the world I had just left. My guide
-informed me that those I saw had not yet arrived at their final abiding
-place. All kinds of people seemed mixed up promiscuously, as they are
-in this world. Their surroundings and manner indicated that they were
-in a state of expectation, and awaiting some event of considerable
-moment to them.
-
-As we went on from this place, my guide said, "I will now show you the
-condition of the damned." Pointing with his hand, he said, "Look!"
-
-I looked down a distance which appeared incomprehensible to me. I
-gazed on a vast region filled with multitudes of beings. I could see
-everything with the most minute distinctness. The multitude of people
-I saw were miserable in the extreme. "These," said my guide, "are they
-who have rejected the means of salvation, that were placed within their
-reach, and have brought upon themselves the condemnation you behold."
-
-The expression of the countenances of these sufferers was clear and
-distinct. They indicated extreme remorse, sorrow and dejection. They
-appeared conscious that none but themselves were to blame for their
-forlorn condition.
-
-This scene affected me much, and I could not refrain from weeping.
-
-Again my guide said, "Now let us go."
-
-In a moment we were at the gate of a beautiful city. A porter opened it
-and we passed in. The city was grand and beautiful beyond anything that
-I can describe. It was clothed in the purest light, brilliant but not
-glaring or unpleasant.
-
-The people, men and women, in their employments and surroundings,
-seemed contented and happy. I knew those I met without being told who
-they were. Jesus and the ancient apostles were there. I saw and spoke
-with the apostle Paul.
-
-My guide would not permit me to pause much by the way, but rather
-hurried me on through this place to another still higher but connected
-with it. It was still more beautiful and glorious than anything I had
-before seen. To me its extent and magnificence were incomprehensible.
-
-My guide pointed to a mansion which excelled everything else in
-perfection and beauty. It was clothed with fire and intense light. It
-appeared a fountain of light, throwing brilliant scintillations of
-glory all around it, and I could conceive of no limit to which these
-emanations extended. Said my guide, "That is where God resides." He
-permitted me to enter this glorious city but a short distance. Without
-speaking, he motioned that we would retrace our steps.
-
-We were soon in the adjoining city. There I met my mother, and a sister
-who died when six or seven years old. These I knew at sight without an
-introduction.
-
-After mingling with the pure and happy beings of this place a short
-time, my guide said again, "Let us go."
-
-We were soon through the gate by which we had entered the city. My
-guide then said, "Now we will return."
-
-I could distinctly see the world from which we had first come. It
-appeared to be a vast distance below us. To me, it looked cloudy,
-dreary and dark. I was filled with sad disappointment, I might say
-horror, at the idea of returning there. I supposed I had come to stay
-in that heavenly place, which I had so long desired to see; up to this
-time, the thought had not occurred to me that I would be required to
-return.
-
-I plead with my guide to let me remain. He replied that I was permitted
-to only visit these heavenly cities, for I had not filled my mission
-in yonder world; therefore I must return and take my body. If I was
-faithful to the grace of God which would be imparted to me, if I
-would bear a faithful testimony to the inhabitants of the earth of a
-sacrificed and risen Savior, and His atonement for man, in a little
-time I should be permitted to return and remain.
-
-These words gave me comfort and inspired my bosom with the principle
-of faith. To me, these things were real. I felt that a great mission
-had been given me, and I accepted it in my heart. The responsibility of
-that mission has rested on me from that time until now.
-
-We returned to my house. There I found my body, and it appeared to me
-dressed for burial. It was with great reluctance that I took possession
-of it to resume the ordinary avocations of life, and endeavor to fill
-the important mission I had received. I awoke and found myself in my
-bed. I lay and meditated the remainder of the night on what had been
-shown me.
-
-Call it a dream, or vision, or what I may, what I saw was as real to
-every sense of my being as anything I have passed through. The memory
-of it is clear and distinct with me to-day, after the lapse of fifty
-years with its many changes.
-
-From that time, although belonging to no church, the Spirit was with
-me to testify to the sufferings and atonement of the Savior. As I had
-opportunity, I continually exhorted the people, in public and private,
-to exercise faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, to repent of their sins and
-live a life of righteousness and good works.
-
-
-
-CHAPTER III.
-
-I TAKE TO PREACHING--MAKE MANY CONVERTS--REFUSE TO BAPTIZE
-THEM--THEY ARE BAPTIZED BY A CAMPBELLITE PREACHER--URGED TO JOIN THE
-CAMPBELLITES--REFUSE, AND THE DEVIL TEMPTS ME--I GRIEVE THE SPIRIT,
-BUT REGAIN IT THROUGH FASTING AND PRAYER--HEAR THE GOSPEL--VISIT FROM
-ELDER GIFFORD--HE IS THREATENED WITH TAR AND FEATHERS--MY BROTHER AND I
-DEFEND HIM.
-
-In the fall of 1828, I returned to Hector, Schuyler County, New York.
-Quite a number of people lived there of the Campbellite faith. 'Squire
-Chase, a prominent man in the neighborhood, who had been a preacher of
-the sect, said that they were cold in religion and had not held any
-meetings for several months. I had been there but a few days, when I
-went with him about two miles to a Methodist meeting. This occurred in
-the month of November.
-
-Up to this time I had joined no church, although I had professed
-religion, attended meetings, and preached when I had an opportunity.
-
-On my return, I remarked to Mr. Chase, "Why cannot we have meetings in
-our neighborhood as well as to go so far to them?"
-
-He replied, "We are all dead there; we would have meetings but I do not
-feel like preaching. But if you will do the preaching, I will appoint a
-meeting."
-
-He did so. The first two meetings but few attended. The third meeting
-the house was crowded. Finally, meetings were held nearly every night
-in the week, and were well attended. A reformation started among
-the people, and there were quite a number of religious converts.
-Campbellite principles had long prevailed in the neighborhood. The
-converts desired baptism, as that was a prominent principle in the
-Campbellite faith. Mr. Chase urged me to perform the ordinance. I
-excused myself by telling him that I had never joined any religious
-denomination, and did not feel authorized to administer it. I finally
-utterly refused to do so. He then sent forty or fifty miles for Elder
-Brown, a regular Campbellite preacher.
-
-He came and baptized about sixty converts and organized a branch of the
-Campbellite church out of the fruits of my labors. He quite exhausted
-his persuasive powers to induce me to join the Campbellite church, to
-take a circuit and go to preaching.
-
-I told him I would not preach his doctrines. If I preached at all, I
-should preach the whole Bible as I understood it.
-
-He said I could do so, for he did not think I would preach anything
-wrong.
-
-A spirit worked with me to do all the good I could, but not to join any
-religious denomination. It prevailed within me against all temptation
-this time. Perhaps the guardian angel, promised by my mother, watched
-over my spiritual as well as temporal welfare.
-
-I think, at the time of this reformation, I had as much of the Spirit
-of the Lord with me as I could well enjoy in my ignorance of the gospel
-in its purity. I was full of the testimony of the truth as I understood
-it.
-
-This reformation in Hector, was a means of temptation to me. I had
-preached and labored with my might to lead the people to the truth, and
-Elder Brown had stepped in and reaped the results of my labors. Because
-I would not join the Campbellite church and preach for them, I was
-entirely thrown aside. The adversary would reason with me thus: "What
-is the use of all your preaching? It does not amount to anything to
-you. You had better attend to your own business and let such nonsense
-alone."
-
-I listened to these suggestions until I had grieved the Spirit of the
-Lord which I had enjoyed. I no longer had the Spirit to pray or to
-exhort the people to lives of righteousness. I was in this condition
-for several months.
-
-In all this lethargy and darkness, I knew there was such a thing as joy
-in the Spirit of God--that in the testimony of Jesus there was light
-and peace. I knew I had accepted a mission to bear this testimony while
-I should remain on the earth.
-
-Knowing these things, I became, in time, alarmed at my condition, I
-feared that the Lord had forsaken me. I humbled myself before Him in
-fasting and prayer. I promised Him that if He would return His good
-Spirit, I would never again reject its suggestions.
-
-Matters continued thus with me for several weeks. In one of my seasons
-of prayer and supplication, I sensibly felt that I was again visited
-by the Holy Spirit. I was encouraged to resume my labors in exhorting
-the people whenever an opportunity was presented. I went from home on
-the Sabbath and held meetings in different places. I was employed in
-this way when I first saw the Book of Mormon, and when the gospel was
-preached to me.
-
-This, and other experiences, have convinced me that when we question
-the Holy Spirit it is likely to be grieved, and leave us to ourselves.
-Then will our darkness be greater than if we had never enjoyed its
-influences. Perhaps this incident in my life may suggest wisdom to
-others.
-
-In November, 1829, I removed to a place called Hector Hill. In
-February, 1831, my father, my brothers Joseph and Brigham, and Heber C.
-Kimball came to my house. They brought with them the Book of Mormon.
-They were on their way to visit some Saints in Pennsylvania. Through
-fear of being deceived, I was quite cautious in religious matters. I
-read and compared the Book of Mormon with the Bible, and fasted and
-prayed that I might come to a knowledge of the truth. The Spirit seemed
-to say, "This is the way; walk ye in it." This was all the testimony I
-could get at the time; it was not altogether satisfactory.
-
-The following May, Elder Levi Gifford came into the neighborhood, and
-desired to preach. My brother, John, belonged to the Methodist church,
-and had charge of their meeting house which was in the neighborhood.
-I obtained from him permission for Elder Gifford to preach in it. The
-appointment was circulated for a meeting the same evening.
-
-This was on Saturday evening, and the circuit preacher of that district
-was to hold a meeting there on Sunday. Elder Midbury, the circuit
-preacher, attended the meeting. The house was crowded. As soon as Elder
-Gifford had concluded his discourse, Elder Midbury arose to his feet
-and said: "Brethren, sisters and friends: I have been a preacher of the
-gospel for twenty-two years; I do not know that I have been the means
-of converting a sinner, or reclaiming a poor backslider; but this I do
-know, that the doctrine the stranger has preached to us to-night is
-a deception, that Joe Smith is a false prophet, and that the Book of
-Mormon is from hell."
-
-After talking awhile in this strain, he concluded. I immediately arose
-to my feet and asked the privilege of speaking, which was granted.
-I said that Elder Midbury, in his remarks, entirely ignored the
-possibility of more revelation, and acknowledged that he had been a
-preacher of the gospel for twenty-two years, without knowing that he
-had been the means of converting a sinner, or of reclaiming a poor
-backslider. But still he claimed to know that the doctrine he had just
-heard was false, that Joseph Smith was an impostor, and that the Book
-of Mormon was from hell. "Now, how is it possible," I asked, "for him
-to know these things unless he has received a revelation?"
-
-When I sat down a strong man, by the name of Thompson, who was well
-known in the neighborhood as a beligerent character, stepped up to
-Elder Gifford and demanded the proofs of the authenticity of the Book
-of Mormon.
-
-Elder Gifford replied, "I have said all I care about saying to-night."
-
-Then said Mr. Thompson, "we will take the privilege of clothing you
-with a coat of tar and feathers, and riding you out of town on a rail."
-
-In the meantime, four or five others of like character came to the
-front.
-
-Acting under the impulse of the moment--true to the instincts of my
-nature to protect the weak against the strong, I stepped between Elder
-Gifford and Mr. Thompson. Looking the latter in the eye, I said, "Mr.
-Thompson, you cannot lay your hand on this stranger to harm a hair of
-his head, without you do it over my dead body."
-
-He replied by mere threats of violence, which brought my brother John
-to his feet.
-
-With a voice and manner, that carried with it a power greater than I
-had ever seen manifested in him before, and, I might say, since, he
-commanded Mr. Thompson and party to take their seats. He continued,
-"Gentlemen, if you offer to lay a hand on Mr. Gifford, you shall pass
-through my hands, after which I think you will not want any more
-to-night." Mr. Thompson and party quieted down and then took their
-seats.
-
-Since then the Elders have passed through so many similar experiences,
-that they have ceased to be a novelty. That there should be such a
-powerful antagonism of spirits manifesting themselves in muscle, in a
-Christian church, indicated a new era in religious influences.
-
-
-
-CHAPTER IV.
-
-CONVERTED--START FOR MISSOURI--CALLED TO PREACH "MORMONISM" WITHOUT
-BEING BAPTIZED--JOIN THE CHURCH--VOYAGE TO PITTSBURG--PREACH THE
-GOSPEL AND ESTABLISH A BRANCH--EXPERIENCE AS A TRUNKMAKER--MISSION
-TO NEW YORK--SPEAK IN TONGUES EFFECTS OF PREACHING COUNTERACTED BY
-LIES--SECOND VOYAGE DOWN THE OHIO--PROVIDENTIAL DELAY.
-
-In the spring of 1831 there was a two-days meeting of the Saints, about
-six miles from where I lived, in the State of Pennsylvania. I attended
-it, and became fully convinced of the divine origin of the latter-day
-work.
-
-In the summer of 1831, I settled up my business and started for the
-latter-day Zion, in the State of Missouri. On my way out of the State
-of New York, I visited Elder J. P. Green, in the town of Avon.
-
-As I arrived there on Saturday, he said, "Brother Lorenzo, I am very
-glad you have come. I have an appointment to preach at 10 o'clock,
-eight miles from here, but I am very unwell and not able to fill it. I
-want you to do it for me."
-
-I rather ridiculed the idea, saying, "You want me to preach as a Mormon
-Elder, when I have not even joined the Church?"
-
-He still desired me to go, and said, "it will be all right."
-
-E. M. Green, the son of J. P. Green, accompanied me, with a revelation
-on the organization of the Church, which his father directed him to
-read to the congregation.
-
-Arriving at the place appointed, I found the house full, and a Baptist
-preacher in the stand. I introduced myself to the minister; he invited
-the congregation to sing, and I prayed, and E. M. Green read the
-revelation. I arose and commenced to speak. The good Spirit was with
-me, and I had much freedom. I talked about one hour and a quarter. At
-the close I gave any one the privilege of speaking who wished to. The
-Baptist minister arose and bore his testimony, that what they had heard
-was true Bible doctrine, and could not be questioned.
-
-After meeting, several persons gathered around me and wished to be
-baptized. Knowing that I had not received authority to administer the
-ordinance, I put them off, telling them that when Elder Green came
-to fill the next appointment that had been made for him, he would
-baptize them. Among those who requested baptism, at that time, were the
-brothers Joseph and Chandler Holbrook, and Mary Ann Angell, now the
-relict of President Brigham Young.
-
-On the following morning I told Elder Green that, inasmuch as I had
-believed in the gospel for some time, and had preached as a "Mormon"
-Elder, I thought it was time that I was baptized. He administered the
-ordinance, and ordained me an Elder. I then went on my way rejoicing.
-
-In due time I reached Olean Point, on the Alleghany river, one of the
-streams that form the head waters of the Ohio. Several families had
-gathered there with the view of descending the river in boats. Among
-them were my brother Phineas and his family. The company built two
-boats, and started down the Alleghany river, in the month of November.
-
-The river was low and falling. It was my lot, with others, nearly every
-morning to get into the water and work the boats off the sand bars upon
-which we anchored at night. The water was always cold, and at times the
-ice was half an inch thick. I had the whooping cough, and this work was
-very severe on me.
-
-We journeyed in this way for three weeks, to Pittsburg, at the head
-of the Ohio river. Three days before arriving there my wife was taken
-sick, and did not feel that she could travel any farther.
-
-Brother Phineas and I concluded to stop awhile in Pittsburg. We were
-destitute of money, having only fifty cents left between us. Soon after
-tying up our boat, a report got noised about that we were a party of
-"Mormons," on our way to Zion. Some of the ideas of the Saints in
-regard to gathering, although often stated erroneously, had obtained
-quite an extensive circulation in the country. Many of the people
-came to see us, and at first, stared as though beholding some great
-curiosity. My brother Phineas and I hired one room and moved into it.
-We retained one boat and the remainder of the company went on in the
-other.
-
-The way we traveled would now be thought a novel and hard way for the
-Saints to gather in these days of railroads. Fifty years have made many
-changes, The world is progressing.
-
-Some respectable-looking men inquired if there were any "Mormon"
-preachers in the company. We informed them that we were Elders. They
-expressed a wish that we would hold a meeting.
-
-We soon learned that Mr. Wm. Harris, of whom we had rented our room,
-had somewhere met one of our Elders, learned something of the gospel,
-and had been baptized. Up to that time he had made no open profession
-of having joined the Saints.
-
-There was a large room in the same house we had moved into. This
-Brother Harris offered us for holding meetings in. The first evening
-quite a goodly number gathered into it, and my brother Phineas and I
-talked to them. Before closing, we gave the privilege for any one to
-speak who wished to.
-
-An elderly lady arose and said she had been seeking for the truth
-many years, and that she had read the Bible through from Genesis to
-Revelations fourteen times, with a prayerful heart, that she might come
-to a knowledge of the truth. She testified that what she had just heard
-was the first gospel discourse she had ever heard in her life. Almost
-in the words of the eunuch to Phillip, she said: "Here is water, what
-hinders me from being baptized?"
-
-The house stood on the bank of the Alleghany river. The night was dark,
-and we thought it dangerous to try to baptize her.
-
-She called to our minds the case of the jailor, who was baptized in the
-self-same hour in which he believed.
-
-We obtained a lantern and went to the bank of the river, the people
-following us. We found the bank steep and the water somewhat deep; but
-my brother, Phineas held on to me while I baptized the woman.
-
-We continued to hold meetings and baptize until over thirty persons had
-united with the Church.
-
-We had authority to preach, baptize and confirm, but we had no
-knowledge of the organization of the Church, and knew not how to
-organize a branch. In the following winter, of 1831-32, Elder Sidney
-Rigdon passed through Pittsburg, and gave us instructions concerning
-the organization of the Church. We then organized a branch, and
-continued our meetings.
-
-After events have passed, we often see in them a providence leading
-to important results. We left our homes in the State of New York for
-Missouri, the only objective point in which we felt any interest.
-A seeming chance of sickness induced us to stop for a season in
-Pittsburg. There we found a people ready to receive the truth. We
-preached the gospel, and built up a branch of the Church. We were
-evidently led there for the accomplishment of this important work.
-
-As will be seen, we subsequently went to Kirtland, instead of going on
-west. But before going to Kirtland, there was yet another place where
-we were to preach the gospel.
-
-As before stated, on our arrival in Pittsburg our finances were low.
-Brother Phineas soon obtained labor. I was not so successful, I walked
-the streets of the town day after day, in search of a job, willing to
-accept of anything I could possibly do. Finally I met a man who gave me
-some encouragement. Said he, "Are you a mechanic?"
-
-I felt constrained to answer "yes," although I could not really lay
-much claim to the profession.
-
-"Well, said he, I want twelve dozen steamboat trunks made."
-
-I replied, "I am your man, but I am traveling. I have stopped here on
-account of sickness in my family, and have no tools with me, and no
-place to work." He assured me that he had shop, tools and everything
-necessary to work with. We went at once to his shop.
-
-I really did not know what a steamboat trunk was. I told him that I
-was from the Eastern States, where probably they worked different to
-what they did in that country, and I should feel much obliged if he
-would lay out a trunk for me, that I might make no mistake. He picked
-up a wide board, laid it on a bench, and with square and compass soon
-laid out a trunk. "There," said he, "that is the way I do it; but if
-it don't suit you, do it as you have a mind to," and he walked out of
-the shop. Food and comforts for my family were at stake. I knelt down
-and asked the Lord to enable me to do the work in an acceptable manner,
-and I arose and went to work with a light heart. I got the bodies of
-several trunks together that day. Towards evening my employer came
-in, examined my work carefully, and said, "That is good enough. If
-you will do them all as well as that, it will do." I put together the
-twelve dozen trunks, covered and finished them off to my employer's
-satisfaction, and he paid me the money.
-
-For that kindly providence I felt thankful. From that time I found
-labor and soon made my family quite comfortable.
-
-In the spring of 1832, it was thought best that I should go on a
-mission to the State of New York. I spent the summer in preaching the
-gospel. I had joy in my labors, being instrumental in bringing many
-into the Church.
-
-I visited the town of Hector, where, by my preaching, as before stated,
-a Campbellite church had been organized. I preached in the same house
-that I had occupied on the previous occasion. Soon after I commenced to
-talk, such a spirit of darkness and opposition prevailed in the house,
-that for the first and only time in my life, I was entirely bound.
-I stood speechless. The congregation looked at me as if wondering
-what could be the matter. A sensation such as I had never felt before
-came over me. My tongue seemed numb or paralyzed. In a short time I
-commenced to speak in an unknown tongue. I probably spoke about fifteen
-minutes. Soon after ceasing to talk, the interpretation came clear and
-distinct to my mind. I at once gave it to the congregation.
-
-I had no further difficulty. I talked about an hour. My old friend,
-Squire Chase, arose and testified that what he had heard was the truth,
-and that the power of God had been made manifest. He and several others
-shed tears. Their hearts were softened by the influence of the good
-Spirit.
-
-I had some prior engagements to meet at a considerable distance from
-Hector. These would keep me away about two weeks. I regretted the
-necessity of going away, and left an appointment for another meeting
-on my return. I indulged in the hope of establishing a branch of the
-Church there.
-
-While I was absent, the Elder Brown, who had organized a Campbellite
-Church from converts made by my preaching, heard that I was preaching
-"Mormonism." He came there, held meetings and visited from house to
-house. He repeated to the people all the extravagant stories and
-falsehoods about the Prophet Joseph and the Book of Mormon, which were
-so extensively circulated in those early times. When I returned, I
-found the minds of the people filled with prejudice and bitterness. The
-Spirit manifested to me that more preaching to them would be in vain,
-and I went away sorrowing. I have not heard since that any of that
-people have ever joined the Church.
-
-I went to Avon, Genesee County, to see my father, John Young. He
-desired to go west and see the Prophet. His wife, my stepmother,
-preferred to remain with her children.
-
-He had previously sold out his property in the town of Mendon for
-several hundred dollars, and had used it to supply the wants of
-the Elders. He had served as a soldier during three campaigns of
-the revolutionary war. About this time, he received a pension from
-the government. This furnished him the means of accompanying me to
-Pittsburg. On arriving there, my brother Phineas and I bought a family
-boat, in which we went twenty-five miles down the Ohio River. My wife
-was again so sick that we felt compelled to stop at Beardstown.
-
-The people came to see us, and soon learned that we were "Mormons."
-They expressed a wish that we would preach to them. The following day
-being Sunday, we consented to do so if they would furnish a house. Mr.
-Isaac Hill, since Bishop for several years of the 2nd Ward of Salt Lake
-City, was then a citizen of that place. Through his kindly offices the
-school house was opened for us.
-
-After the first meeting, the people desired more. In a few days we
-baptized five persons, among them Mr. Hill and Peter Shirts. The latter
-is well known to many of the people of Utah.
-
-In a short time, my brother Phineas went to Kirtland with our father.
-The Saints desired that I should remain at Beardstown, and I concluded
-to spend the winter there. Some of my friends, thinking that I might
-get work easier at West Union, five miles from Beardstown, I removed
-then. There, although my way at first seemed hedged up, I succeeded
-in making my family comfortable through the winter. Again we had been
-providentially directed to where there were a few ready to receive the
-truth.
-
-
-
-CHAPTER V.
-
-REMOVAL TO KIRTLAND--WORK UPON THE TEMPLE--A
-LESSON--SICKNESS--PRONOUNCED INCURABLE BY DOCTORS--HEALED IN ANSWER
-TO PRAYER--CURED OF LAMENESS--REMOVAL TO MISSOURI--COMMENCEMENT OF
-HOSTILITIES--SURROUNDED BY A MOB--FACE DEATH--RESCUED.
-
-In March, 1833, I removed to Kirtland. The Kirtland Temple committee
-was appointed June 6th, 1833. About that time, I took with my team
-Brothers Hyrum and Joseph Smith, Reynolds Cahoon and my brother
-Brigham, to look at a stone quarry, and see if the rock was suitable
-for the walls of the temple. It was decided that it would do, and a
-part of a load was put on the wagon. We all returned to town, and the
-rock was unloaded on the temple ground. As near as I recollect, this
-was the first rock hauled for that building.
-
-From that time I worked with the brethren, as occasion required, until
-the temple was completed. On the 17th of February, 1834, those holding
-the Priesthood were called together to organize a High Council. I was
-one of the number. On that occasion I committed a great error. That
-it may be a lesson for others, is my reason for relating it here. The
-Prophet requested me to take a seat with other brethren who had been
-selected for this Council.
-
-Instead of doing as requested, I arose and plead my inability to
-fill so responsible a position, manifesting, I think, considerable
-earnestness in the matter. The Prophet then said that he really desired
-that I should take the place.
-
-Still excusing myself, he appointed another to fill it. I think this
-was the reason the Prophet never again called me to fill any important
-position in the Priesthood during his life.
-
-I have since learned to go where I am called, and not set up my
-judgment against that of those who are called to lead in this kingdom.
-
-When the temple was enclosed, in a meeting of the brethren, called to
-consult about its completion, the Prophet desired that a hard finish
-be put on its outside walls. None of the masons who had worked on the
-building knew how to do it. Looking around on the brethren, his eyes
-rested upon me; he said, "Brother Lorenzo. I want you to take hold and
-get this finish on the walls. Will you do it?"
-
-"Yes;" I replied; "I will try." The following day, with horse and buggy
-I went to Cleveland, twenty-two miles, determined, if possible, to
-find a man who understood the business of putting a hard finish on the
-walls. I had been there but a short time, inquiring after such a man,
-when I met a young man who said he understood the business, had just
-completed a job, and wanted another. I employed him at once, put him
-and his tools into the buggy, and returned to Kirtland.
-
-We soon had the materials and fixtures on hand to make the mortar. In a
-short time the finish was being put upon the walls.
-
-I made a suitable tool and, before the mortar was dry, I marked off the
-walls into blocks in imitation of regular stone work. When the finish
-was on I commenced penciling.
-
-It was then the last of November, and the weather daily grew colder. A
-Brother Stillman assisted me a day or two, but said that he could not
-stand the cold, and quit the work.
-
-I continued, day after day, determined, if possible, to complete the
-job. When I got badly chilled I went into my house, warmed myself and
-returned again to the work.
-
-I completed the task in the fore part of December, but was sick the
-last two days. I had caught a bad cold, had a very severe cough, and,
-in a few days was confined to my bed.
-
-My disease was pronounced to be the quick consumption. I sank rapidly
-for six or seven weeks. For two weeks I was unable to talk. Dr.
-Williams, one of the brethren, came to see me, and, considering my case
-a bad one, came the next day and brought with him Dr. Seely, an old
-practicing physician, and another doctor whose name I have forgotten.
-They passed me through an examination. Dr. Seely asserted that I had
-not as much lungs left as would fill a tea saucer. He appeared a
-somewhat rough, irreligious man. Probably, with what he considered a
-good-natured fling at our belief in miracles, he said to my father, as
-he left the house:
-
-"Mr. Young, unless the Lord makes your son a new pair of lungs, there
-is no hope for him!"
-
-At this time I was so low and nervous that I could scarcely bear any
-noise in the room. The next morning after the visit of the doctors, my
-father came to the door of the room to see how I was. I recollect his
-gazing earnestly at me with tears in his eyes. As I afterwards learned,
-he went from there to the Prophet Joseph, and said to him: "My son
-Lorenzo is dying; can there not be something done for him?"
-
-The Prophet studied a little while, and replied, "Yes! Of necessity, I
-must go away to fill an appointment, which I cannot put off. But you go
-and get my brother Hyrum, and, with him, get together twelve or fifteen
-good faithful brethren; go to the house of Brother Lorenzo, and all
-join in prayer. One be mouth and the others repeat after him in unison.
-After prayer, divide into quorums of three. Let the first quorum who
-administer, anoint Brother Young with oil; then lay hands on him, one
-being mouth and the other two repeating in unison after him. When all
-the quorums have, in succession, laid their hands on Brother Young and
-prayed for him, begin again with the first quorum, by anointing with
-oil as before, continuing the administration in this way until you
-receive a testimony that he will be restored."
-
-My father came with the brethren, and these instructions were strictly
-followed. The administrations were continued until it came the turn of
-the first quorum the third time. Brother Hyrum Smith led. The Spirit
-rested mightily upon him. He was full of blessing and prophecy. Among
-other things, he said that I should live to go with the Saints into the
-bosom of the Rocky Mountains, to build up a place there, and that my
-cellar should overflow with wine and fatness.
-
-At that time, I had not heard about the Saints going to the Rocky
-Mountains; possibly Brother Smith had. After he had finished he
-seemed surprised at some things he had said, and wondered at
-the manifestations of the Spirit. I coughed no more after that
-administration, and rapidly recovered.
-
-I had been pronounced by the best physicians in the country past all
-human aid, and I am a living witness of the power of God manifested in
-my behalf through the administration of the Elders.
-
-I continued to live in Kirtland, labored for the support of my family
-and went on missions until September, 1837. At that time there was
-considerable persecution, and many Saints left for Missouri. In company
-with Brother Isaac Decker and family, I started for that place.
-
-On account of sickness in my family, I laid by at Dublin, Indiana. I
-remained there until January, 1838.
-
-I went to Cincinnati. While absent, my brother Brigham, and Brothers
-Joseph and Samuel Smith, with their families, came along on their way
-to Missouri. They were accompanied by Brother Daniel Holman and Brother
-Miles. I returned to Dublin, and, in February, we continued our journey
-together.
-
-On the way, in jumping from a wagon, I fell and split my knee pan on a
-sharp stone. The injury was both painful and dangerous.
-
-Riding over rough roads in a loaded wagon was very painful to me. At
-Terre Haute, Indiana, my leg was examined by a surgeon. He said even if
-I got well, my leg would always be stiff. However, my faith was that I
-should again have the use of it. It was still over four hundred miles
-to our destination. I suffered much, but got the use of my leg the
-following summer. I attribute this result to the blessing of the Lord
-through the administration of the Elders.
-
-On our way, we crossed the Mississippi river at Quincy, Illinois, on
-the ice. We were the last to cross in that way that season. When near
-the west side, on account of the weakness of the ice, we took the
-horses from the wagons and laid down planks to run the latter to the
-shore.
-
-In March, Brother Isaac Decker and I arrived in Davis County, Missouri.
-I purchased a quarter section of land and went to work to make me a
-home. Brother Decker rented a farm. The remainder of the company went
-on to Far West, twenty-two miles farther.
-
-We labored diligently at our business during the summer, usually having
-meetings on the Sabbath. Matters remained quiet until election day,
-August 6th, 1838, when the Missourians determined that the "Mormons"
-should not vote. On the other hand, the brethren asserted their rights,
-and a fight took place at Gallatin, as related in Church history. I
-did not feel like attending election, and did not go. This was the
-beginning of our troubles in Davis County.
-
-I lived eighteen miles from Adam Ondi-Ahman. About this time, I left
-my family on my place and went there and stood guard some two weeks.
-Brother Decker accompanied me. After completing our term of military
-service, Brother Decker and I started for home. We had but one horse,
-and we alternately rode and walked. As we passed through the town of
-Gallatin, about eight miles from home, it was my turn to walk, and
-Brother Decker was ahead of me on the horse. There was a company of
-Missourians stationed about twenty rods from the road, near a whisky
-saloon. As I was passing nearly opposite them, a party of men stepped
-in front of me and the leader ordered me to stop. He was armed with a
-sword. There were twenty-two of the party, mostly armed with rifles.
-
-Nothing was said to Brother Decker, although he halted and sat on his
-horse a short distance off and watched the proceedings.
-
-The captain of the party asked me where I had been, where I was going,
-and if I was a "Mormon," with many other questions which I answered
-truthfully.
-
-After answering one of his questions, with a profane epithet he called
-me a liar. After this, I kept my mouth closed and answered no more of
-his questions. He was about half drunk, as were probably some of his
-men. He became much irritated at my silence, and used very profane and
-abusive language. Said he: "You have probably been robbing and burning
-in this section, and ought to be killed. Anyhow, I will make you open
-your mouth." He then ordered his men to form in a half circle a little
-distance from me, evidently to concentrate their fire. He then ordered
-them to "Make ready! Aim!"
-
-Every rifle was drawn on me. I prayed in my heart, and felt
-considerable assurance that they would not be permitted to kill me. My
-life trembled in the balance awaiting the leader's order to fire, or
-recover arms. The latter order came. He then said excitedly: "Now will
-you talk?" But I remained silent.
-
-This performance was repeated. He became filled with wrath, and
-commanded his men, the third time, "Make ready! Aim!" It looked surely
-as though my time had come. At this moment, a man in military garb, and
-armed with a sword, came running from the camp near the grocery. When
-near enough to to be heard, he cried out, "Hold on!"
-
-The men dropped their pieces, and there was respite for me again. As he
-approached he demanded, "What are you doing?"
-
-The officer who had been abusing me, replied with a profane epithet, "I
-am going to kill this Mormon!"
-
-The other officer ordered him to take his men to the camp.
-
-As he did not move readily, his superior drew his sword, stepped in
-front of him, and declared with an oath, if he did not move at once he
-would take his head from his shoulders. His tone and manner indicated
-that he meant business, and the captain moved off with his men at once.
-
-The officer who released me, declared that the other was drunk and did
-not know what he was doing. He asked me many questions similar to what
-the other had done, but in a gentlemanly manner, and I answered them
-frankly and truly. His heart was softened towards me. He bade me go on
-my way, and added, "Mr. Young if you are ever in trouble in this war,
-and can do so, send for me, and you shall not be hurt, unless it is
-over my dead body." I made a memorandum of his name, military title,
-etc., but regret to say that in my many moves since have lost it.
-
-Again was the prophetic promise of my mother fulfilled, and my life
-lengthened out for some wise purpose. Brother Decker and I went on
-home. He immediately removed to Far West, Caldwell County.
-
-
-
-CHAPTER VI.
-
-WARNED TO LEAVE THE COUNTRY OR RENOUNCE "MORMONISM"--WIFE AND CHILDREN
-THREATENED--A BOY'S PLUCK--FORCED TO FLEE FOR OUR LIVES--PROPERTY
-CONFISCATED--BATTLE OF CROOKED RIVER--PROVIDENTIALLY SAVED--FAR WEST
-BESIEGED--ESCAPE TO IOWA--PURSUED--PROVIDENTIAL SNOW STORM.
-
-In a day or two after my return home, Mr. Richard Welding, of whom I
-had bought my farm, came to me, accompanied by three or four others. He
-gave me warning to leave the country at once.
-
-I asked him why I must leave, saying: "Have I not bought my land, and
-paid you for it? Have I not attended to my own business?"
-
-He replied: "Mr. Young, we do not want you to leave. You are a good
-neighbor and citizen, and if you will only be man enough to renounce
-Joe Smith and your religion, we want you to remain with us, and I will
-protect you in your rights. The Mormons must all leave the country, and
-if you do not renounce them, you must go too."
-
-I paid no attention to this warning.
-
-Three or four days after this occurrence, four men rode up in front of
-my house, when I happened to be away, called Sister Young to the door,
-and again gave warning that we had better leave.
-
-By her side stood our little boy, Joseph W. One of the men, using an
-oath, ordered him to go into the house or he would blow his brains out.
-The boy stepped back, without his mother noticing what he was doing,
-took my rifle, which was standing in the room, and, before he had
-attracted her attention, was leveling it on the threatener. She quietly
-told him not to fire, as they would certainly be killed if he did.
-
-He obeyed, but manifested considerable beligerency for one of his age.
-
-About five days after this warning, early in the morning, I looked up
-the road towards Gallatin, and saw a man on horseback coming towards my
-house at full speed. As he rode up he inquired: "Is your name Young?"
-
-I answered that it was.
-
-He continued: "I have rode from Gallatin to inform you that, in two or
-three hours, there will be a company of forty men here, who assert that
-if they find you here, they will fasten you and your family in your
-house and burn it down. For God's sake, if you value your own life and
-the lives of your wife and children, do not be here an hour from now. I
-have come to give you this warning as a friend. Should it be found out
-that I have done so, I might lose my own life!"
-
-I thanked him for his kindness, and he rode off rapidly towards
-Gallatin. I told Sister Young to prepare to leave at once, then
-attached my team to a light spring wagon, put a bed, a few cooking
-utensils, a trunk of clothing, and some food for the day into it. I got
-my wife, my four children, William, Harriet, Joseph and John into the
-wagon, fastened up the house and started for Far West.
-
-I expected to return and get my goods. The next day I obtained some
-teams and started for my goods. I found the road strongly guarded, and
-the Missourians threatened to kill me if I went on. I never obtained
-goods, cows nor anything that I had left on my place.
-
-This left my family very destitute, in common with others of the Saints
-who had been treated in like manner.
-
-I had previously driven a fine yoke of oxen and a new milch cow to Far
-West, thinking I might possibly want to remove there; but Clark's army
-drove my oxen into camp and butchered them for beef. I was promised pay
-for them, but, of course, never received anything but the promise.
-
-This was in October, 1838. I remained in Far West doing whatever was
-necessary for the protection of the Saints. I was on guard much of the
-time.
-
-Major Seymour Brunson directed Brother A. P. Rockwood, and myself to
-take our horses and go out two miles north of Far West and patrol the
-country every night. If we saw a man, or company of men coming towards
-Far West, we were ordered to hail them and demand the countersign. If
-necessary, to make this demand the second time, when, if not given, we
-were to fire on them. When we arrived on the ground where we were to
-perform our duties, Brother Rockwood and I separated, taking different
-directions. It was a moonlight night. I was on the edge of a prairie
-with my eye along the road, when I discovered a company of mounted men
-coming over a swell of the prairie. I retired into the timber and took
-a station behind the trunk of a large tree, under the shadow of its
-branches, and twenty or thirty yards from the road. As the company came
-opposite to me, I demanded the countersign twice, as I had been ordered
-to do. As they paid no attention to me, I made ready to fire, intending
-to shoot the leader, when a strong and sudden impression came over me
-to hail again. I did so, and ordered them to halt. This time the leader
-recognized my voice, and turning towards me, asked: "Is that you,
-Brother Lorenzo?" I also recognized the man as Brother Lyman Wight,
-and, as I answered in the affirmative, rode up to his side. We were
-glad to meet each other, and I was very thankful that I had not obeyed
-orders. He was on his way from Diamond to Far West, with a company of
-men to assist the Saints there.
-
-Soon after this occurrence, I returned to Far West. I told Sister Young
-that I hoped to get one good night's sleep. For three weeks I had not
-had my clothes off to lay down, and I felt much worn.
-
-Perhaps I had slept two hours, when I was awakened by the bass drum
-sounding an alarm on the public square. I was soon out to see what was
-the matter. There were five men on the square, of whom I inquired the
-cause of the alarm. They informed me that two of the brethren had been
-taken prisoners by the mob on Crooked River, tried by a court martial
-that day, and condemned to be shot the coming morning at eight o'clock.
-A company of men was wanted to go and rescue them.
-
-Preparations were soon made, and in a short time, about 40 mounted men,
-under the command of David W. Patten, were ready to start. We kept
-the road to a ford on Crooked River, twenty miles distant, where we
-expected to find the mob.
-
-Just as the day was breaking we dismounted, about a mile from the ford,
-tied our horses, and left Brother Isaac Decker to watch them.
-
-We marched down the road some distance, when we heard the crack of
-a rifle. Brother Obanion, who was one step in advance of me fell. I
-assisted brother John P. Green, who was the captain of the platoon I
-belonged to, to carry him to the side of the road. We asked the Lord to
-preserve his life, laid him down, ran on and took our places again.
-
-The man who shot Brother Obanion was a picket guard of the mob, who was
-secreted in ambush by the roadside. Captain Patten was ahead of the
-company.
-
-As we neared the river the firing was somewhat lively. Captain Patten
-turned to the left of the road, with a part of the command; Captain
-Green and others turned to the right.
-
-We were ordered to charge, which we did, to the bank of the river, when
-the enemy broke and fled.
-
-I snapped my gun twice at a man in a white blanket coat. While engaged
-in repriming my gun, he got out of range.
-
-A tall, powerful, Missourian sprang from under the bank of the river,
-and, with a heavy sword in hand, rushed towards one of the brethren,
-crying out, "Run, you devils, or die!"
-
-The man he was making for was also armed with a sword, but was small
-and poorly calculated to withstand the heavy blows of the Missourian.
-He, however, succeeded in defend-himself until I ran to his aid, and
-leveled my gun within two feet of his enemy, but it missed fire.
-
-The Missourian turned on me. With nothing but the muzzle end of my
-rifle to parry his rapid blows, my situation was perilous. The man
-whom I had relieved, for some reason, did not come to the rescue. I
-succeeded in parrying the blows of my enemy until he backed me to
-the bank of the river. I could back no farther without going off the
-perpendicular bank, eight or ten feet above the water. In a moment I
-realized that my chances were very desperate. At this juncture the
-Missourian raised his sword, apparently throwing all his strength and
-energy into the act, as if intending to crush me with one desperate
-blow.
-
-As his arm extended I saw a hand pass down the back of his head and
-between his shoulders. There was no other person visible, and I have
-always believed that I saw the hand of the angel of the Lord interposed
-for my deliverance. The arm of my enemy was paralyzed, and I had time
-to extricate myself from the perilous situation I was in.
-
-As soon as I had time to think, I felt that the inspiration of my
-mother's promise had been again verified. The appearance of the hand,
-to me, was real. I do not see how I could have been saved in the way I
-was, without a providential interference.
-
-As soon as I was out of danger, my attention was drawn to brother David
-W. Patten, who lay on the ground a short distance from me, mortally
-wounded. We hitched a pair of horses to a wagon, put brother Patten and
-six other wounded men into it, and started for Far West.
-
-A few miles from the battle ground we met the Prophet Joseph, with a
-carriage and a company of horsemen. The wounded were taken to their
-homes, and such care given them as circumstances would allow.
-
-Soon after our return to Far West, General Clark's army arrived before
-that city. In the evening after Joseph and Hyrum Smith and others had
-been taken prisoners, Hyrum Smith had the privilege of coming into Far
-West to see his family. From the spirit of General Clark and his army,
-he believed that, if they succeeded in taking the brethren who were
-in the Crooked River battle, they would be tried by a court martial
-and shot. He and Brother Brigham, and myself met on the public square.
-After counseling over the matter, it was decided that I, and others in
-the same situation, should start that night into the wilderness north,
-for the Des Moines River, in Iowa Territory. My brother, Phineas, being
-a good woodsman, was selected to pilot us.
-
-The Saints in Far West had been so plundered by their enemies, that
-they had but little surplus to eat or wear.
-
-I had on a very thin pair of pants. My wife took a sheet from the bed,
-and, with the assistance of some of the neighbors, hastily made me a
-pair of drawers. These I afterwards gave to my brother Phineas, as he
-seemed to suffer more with the cold than I did. Our bedding was as
-scanty as our clothing.
-
-We left Far West that night, and took no food with us. We arrived about
-sunrise in the morning, at Adam-Ondi-Ahman, twenty-two miles from Far
-West. We needed some breakfast, and stopped in a clump of hazel brush,
-and sent one of the party to the house of Brother Gardiner Snow, to
-tell him our situation. He said he had not much to eat, but would do
-the best he could. He brought us a very good supply of stewed Missouri
-pumpkin and milk. Our keen appetites made this seem a very good
-breakfast.
-
-There we obtained fifty pounds of chopped corn. With this meagre
-supply of food we continued on our journey. From the first, it was
-evident that we must be very saving of our food supply. We rationed
-on eight ounces of this meal, per man, each day. It was mixed with
-water, without any salt, baked in a cake before the fire, and carefully
-divided out.
-
-The second day, as night was approaching, we struck the edge of a
-prairie, which was about four miles across. As our horses were weary,
-we stopped a short time to rest, when one Irvine Hodge overtook us. He
-informed us that General Clark, having learned of our departure, had
-sent a troop of sixty cavalrymen in pursuit; that they were only a few
-miles behind, and on our trail. Their orders were to bring us dead or
-alive. We had thought of camping on the spot, but concluded to cross
-the prairie at once. This we accomplished, and camped in the timber. In
-the night, snow commenced falling. It appeared to come down in sheets
-instead of flakes. In the morning it was about a foot and a half deep.
-Some of the company, at first, regretted this, but others saw and felt
-that the hand of the Lord was in it. My brother, Phineas, at once
-declared that it was the means of our deliverance. We started on and
-the wind began to blow. Our tracks were completely covered soon after
-they were made.
-
-We afterwards learned that our pursuers camped on the opposite side of
-the prairie from us, where we had rested. In the morning they tried to
-find our trail, but finding it impossible to do so, gave up pursuit.
-
-Thus we were saved from our enemies by a friendly interposition of the
-elements in our behalf.
-
-We were fifteen days on our journey from Far West to the Des Moines
-River. The last three days we were without food. After the snow fell,
-our horses had to subsist on what they could find above it.
-
-The brush had soon made my thin pants unavailable for covering my legs
-in the neighborhood of the knees. The fragments were tied up with small
-hickory withes. When we arrived near a house, on the Des Moines, I
-remained in the woods while one of my companions went to the house and
-obtained a pair of pants, that I might be presentable.
-
-On this trip it seemed as though both men and animals had a wonderful
-power of enduring cold, hunger and fatigue. I am constrained, after
-more than forty years have passed away, to acknowledge a special
-providence in our deliverance.
-
-I have drawn on my memory for the facts of this narrative, and think
-that they are correct; but there may be some errors in dates, and in
-the succession of events.
-
-
-
-AN INSTANCE OF DIVINE INTERPOSITION.
-
-BY ELDER WILLIAM BUDGE.
-
-VISIT TO SCOTLAND--MEET OLD FRIENDS--RETURN TO LIVERPOOL--ABOUT TO GO
-BY STEAMER TO BRISTOL--A VOICE WARNS ME NOT TO GO--TURN BACK--SHORT OF
-MONEY--MEANS PROVIDENTIALLY PROVIDED--JOURNEY TO PORTSMOUTH--SEQUEL TO
-THE WARNING--THE STEAMER WRECKED.
-
-I had been laboring in the Southampton Conference, England, as a
-missionary for about two years, when I obtained permission to visit my
-relatives in Scotland. It was in the latter part of the summer of 1853.
-
-Accompanied by an Elder named Armstrong, who was going to Liverpool, I
-embarked at Portsmouth, on the steamship _Duke of Cornwall_, bound for
-that port, on the morning of the 8th of August.
-
-Shortly after starting, we passed the British fleet, lying off
-Spithead, preparing for a grand review, to take place on the following
-Thursday, which Queen Victoria was expected to attend. The scene
-was both novel and interesting, as we passed near the assembled and
-decorated ships.
-
-Passing the Isle of Wight, of which we had a good view, we called at
-Plymouth, Falmouth, and Penzance, before reaching Liverpool, passing
-also the celebrated Eddystone Lighthouse.
-
-We reached Liverpool at two p. m., on the 10th, and I sailed for
-Glasgow within two hours afterwards. On board the Scotch steamer, I was
-pleased to find an old acquaintance, named George Turnbull, who was at
-that time a clerk in the Church office at Liverpool, and on his way,
-like myself, to visit his home and friends.
-
-Brother Turnbull and I heard the gospel about the same time, in the
-same city, (Glasgow) and became members of the same branch of the
-Church; he being baptized first. This young man was a scholar, and
-possessed of much natural ability, and for some time, was a good Saint,
-but he would not run the race; he eventually fell into transgression,
-denied the faith, and was lost.
-
-There were also on board the vessel, Elder Fullmer, pastor of the
-Liverpool Conference, and wife, and Elder John O. Angus, President of
-the Shropshire Conference. I was well acquainted with the latter; he
-was a faithful missionary, and a quiet, humble, and inoffensive man. He
-labored for a long time in the St. George Temple, and died some time
-ago.
-
-Such company was very agreeable, but the night was somewhat stormy, and
-we did not reach Glasgow until two p. m. next day.
-
-During this trip, I visited my relatives in Glasgow, Lanark, and
-elsewhere, and also the Saints in a district of the conference where
-I had formerly labored. I felt truly grateful to the Lord for all His
-goodness unto me, in preserving me while struggling hard in several new
-fields of labor to which I had been allotted, since I first left home
-and beg an my labors as a missionary.
-
-On the first day of September, taking leave of my friends, I embarked
-on a steam vessel for Liverpool. Elder John O. Angus was also a
-passenger, and I, therefore, had good company during a very stormy
-passage. Arriving at Liverpool, we called at the Church office, Wilton
-Street, and lodged at the house of Elder A. F. Macdonald, president of
-the conference.
-
-I intended to go by sea from Liverpool to Bristol, and by land to
-Salisbury, on my way back to Portsmouth, as I had not means enough to
-go through by railroad conveyance. I had explained this to Brother
-Angus, and on the morning after our arrival in Liverpool, I bade him
-good by, and walked down to the docks, carrying my carpet sack and a
-number of books, which I had brought with me from home. This was on the
-third day of September, 1853.
-
-A number of people were waiting to go on board the same steam vessel I
-intended to take. The steamer at the time was taking in freight at the
-opposite side of the dock, and would call for us, so we were informed,
-in a short time.
-
-While standing looking at the vessel, a voice, loud and distinct, said:
-"Do not go on board." I was startled, and looked around, but there was
-no one near. Although I turned hastily, I did not really expect to see
-any one who might have spoken. It was, I felt, a revelation; I was
-impressed with the divine force, and I lifted my satchel preparatory
-to leaving, but suddenly I thought of my want of means, and began to
-wonder whether I had not been deceived by my imagination. I put down
-my satchel again, just as the ship was nearing that part of the dock
-where the passengers were waiting. My condition tempted me. I was in
-doubt for a moment. I began to reason; but faith triumphed. I felt sure
-that it was a warning, and, lifting my baggage, left the dock for the
-Lime Street Station, as the people who had been waiting passed into the
-steamer.
-
-Once decided, there was no further trouble, and I began to consider how
-I could reach Portsmouth. When I entered the station, I had concluded
-to take the first third-class train to Birmingham. At that time, I had
-no acquaintances there, and wished to hurry on, trusting that the way
-would be opened up as my necessities required; such having been the
-case many times before. The Lord had prepared the way in times past,
-and I had faith that He would help me then sufficiently.
-
-I was one of those young and very inexperienced Elders, sent into the
-missionary field literally without purse or scrip. Elder George B.
-Wallace, at that time one of the presidency of the Church in Europe,
-sent me with several others into Cumberland County, in the North of
-England, where there were no Saints until we were instrumental in the
-hands of the Lord in bringing some to a knowledge of the truth.
-
-It was a hard country, and we had a rough experience. In less than
-three months, three Elders out of five returned home; but Elder Thomas
-Wallace, now of Weber County, and I remained until the Lord called us
-somewhere else.
-
-I have been in many new fields of labor since, without money and
-without friends until the Lord raised them up, but never among a people
-so ignorant, and unimpressionable as the people we could obtain access
-to in the North of England. In comparison, my prospects, as I walked
-into the Lime Street Station, were not at all discouraging, but as I
-entered, there stood Brother Angus, who was waiting for a train to take
-him to Shrewsbury.
-
-He was surprised to see me, and I was a little abashed, as I felt
-somewhat delicate about giving him an explanation. Although satisfied
-myself, I had some misgivings about satisfying him. I told him,
-however, what had happened, and, to my relief, he said, putting his
-hand on my shoulder, "You have done just right, and you will see the
-hand of God in this."
-
-A third-class train, I learned, would not leave until next morning, so
-I lodged with Brother Turnbull, who had returned to Liverpool.
-
-The next day I went to Birmingham, and there learned that a cheap
-excursion train would leave for Bristol at five p. m. Bristol--going
-by land--was not directly on my way, but the fare being low, and
-going from there to Warminster and Salisbury, I was likely to reach
-Portsmouth sooner than any other way.
-
-In the cars, I made the acquaintance of a lady and gentleman also going
-to Bristol, to visit some relatives they had in that town. After an
-interesting conversation they invited me to take lunch with them, which
-was very acceptable, and on our arrival at Bristol, they pressed me to
-accompany them to their friend's house, where I remained all night,
-being warmly received and well treated.
-
-I had not quite a dollar in my possession, and I acknowledge the hand
-of the Lord in thus opening up the way for me.
-
-On reaching Warminster next day at six p. m., I had only twelve cents
-left, and a heavy carpet sack, which I took to a carrier who made
-occasional trips with freight to Salisbury, and I started at once to
-walk to the latter place, distant twenty-two miles.
-
-It was evening and the weather pleasant, and the distance nothing
-unusual for a missionary, but I made a mistake by starting out too
-fast, perspired, got tired, and was obliged to take lodging at a small
-way-side inn, which cost me eight cents. I slept without supper and
-resumed my journey without breakfast the next morning, but thanking the
-Lord for good health and spirits.
-
-On reaching Salisbury, where I was a perfect stranger, I walked into
-the town with the intention of inquiring for Latter-day Saints, a few
-of whom I understood lived there. My first inquiry was of a little
-boy, who quickly answered "Yes, my mother is one," and at once offered
-to conduct me to his home, which we soon reached, and to which I was
-warmly welcomed.
-
-On passing through the streets, I saw, posted upon the walls,
-announcements of an excursion trip to Southampton and Portsmouth,
-fare two shillings and six pence, or sixty-two cents in our money.
-Reflecting upon the means of obtaining such a sum without being obliged
-to write and wait for it, we reached the house of my guide's mother.
-
-From the boy's statement that his mother was a "Mormon," I got the
-impression that his father, if he had one, was not, which I found to
-be correct. His father was not very friendly, but his mother was a
-very earnest Saint, and a very thoughtful and kind one, as while I sat
-taking some refreshments which she had hastily prepared, she brought
-and gave me a piece of money, the exact amount necessary to procure my
-ticket to Portsmouth. I again thanked the Lord, and explained to my
-kind sister what her gift would enable me to do. The boy had in the
-meantime, by her instructions, brought my carpet sack, and I was ready
-to continue my journey.
-
-I reached Portsmouth on the 7th day of September, and while there
-on the 9th, I read in the newspaper of the total wreck of the steam
-vessel, on which I was about to sail from Liverpool, when I was warned
-by the Lord not to go on board the ship.
-
-
-
-MY LAST MISSION TO THE SANDWICH ISLANDS.
-
-BY WM. W. CLUFF.
-
-CHAPTER I.
-
-ELDERS CALLED HOME FROM THE SANDWICH ISLANDS--NATIVE ELDER LEFT TO
-PRESIDE--GIBSON'S ARRIVAL IN SALT LAKE--JOINS THE CHURCH--ASKS FOR A
-MISSION TO THE SANDWICH ISLANDS--HIS DEEP-LAID SCHEME--LEADING ASTRAY
-THE HAWAIIAN SAINTS--FIVE ELDERS SENT TO INVESTIGATE--ARRIVAL AT THE
-SANDWICH ISLANDS--ATTEMPT TO GO ASHORE IN A BOAT--CAPSIZED IN THE
-SURF--ELDER LORENZO SNOW LOST--AFTER A LONG SEARCH, FOUND UNDER THE
-BOAT--EFFORTS TO RESUSCITATE HIM--RESTORED TO LIFE ONE HOUR AFTER BEING
-DROWNED.
-
-In the summer and autumn of 1857, a United States army was marching
-towards Utah, evidently with hostile intentions towards its people. It
-was thought wisdom, by the authorities of the Church, to concentrate
-the strength of the Saints for any emergency, by calling home the
-Elders that were on foreign missions.
-
-When the last of the Elders from Utah left the Sandwich Islands, on
-the 1st of May, 1858, the care of the Saints on each of the islands
-was entrusted to a native Elder. Kailihune was appointed to preside
-over the gathering place on Lanai. He was among the first fruits of the
-labors of the Elders, and for a long time had been very efficient and
-faithful.
-
-During our difficulties with the government Walter M. Gibson, an
-adventurer, came to Utah. His ostensible object was to induce President
-Young, and the general Church authorities, to remove our people _en
-masse_, to the East India Islands. He painted, in glowing colors,
-the splendid facilities and opportunities those islands offered for
-immigration and colonization, by an enterprising and industrious people
-like the Latter-day Saints.
-
-In his ignorance, he supposed that the object of the founder and
-leaders of the Church was to found a powerful and independent
-nation. The object of these schemes was, evidently, his own personal
-aggrandizement.
-
-It had, no doubt, been a favorite project of his, for years, to found
-a government somewhere on the islands of the Pacific Ocean. Failing
-in his scheme for the removal of the Church, some other plan must be
-devised for the accomplishment of his cherished purpose.
-
-He professed to become a convert to our faith, and was baptized into
-the Church. He then requested to be sent on a mission to the Polynesian
-Islands. He desired a roving commission from the Presidency of the
-Church, authorizing him to travel and preach, on any or all of the
-islands, in the Pacific Ocean.
-
-Before leaving Salt Lake City, Mr. Gibson made it a specialty to
-converse with the Elders who had lately returned from the Sandwich
-Islands. He sought to be well informed on the general condition of the
-islands, the customs, traditions, and general character of the natives,
-and, especially did he seek to be well informed as to the numbers,
-organization, location, and general condition of the native Saints. His
-object, in this, developed afterwards.
-
-When he left Utah he went directly to the Sandwich Islands. He soon
-found some of the Saints, and represented to them, that he had been
-sent by President Young, not only to take charge of the mission on
-those islands, but to preside over all the churches that might be
-raised up on any of the Pacific islands, and, in that capacity, that he
-was equal to, and entirely independent of President Young.
-
-The native Saints had been left about two years to themselves. They
-were naturally simple and credulous, and it was easy to impose upon
-them.
-
-As soon as Mr. Gibson acquired some knowledge of the native language,
-he commenced traveling among the branches of the Church, and grafted
-on to the gospel, many of the old traditions and superstitions of the
-Hawaiians. He reorganized the Church, or, more properly speaking,
-reconstructed it in accordance with his own notions, throughout the
-islands.
-
-He was one of those characters, of whom the apostle Peter warned
-the Saints in his day, "and through covetousness shall they with
-feigned words make merchandise of you." He ordained twelve apostles,
-and charged them one hundred and fifty dollars each for initiating
-them into the office, and charged High Priests, Seventies, etc,
-proportionately, according to the presumed importance of the offices.
-
-By this and other impositions, he succeeded in raising sufficient means
-for the purchase of one half of the island of Lanai. Some years before
-the Elders had leased the same tract of land, of Halelea, a native
-chief, for a temporary gathering place for the Saints.
-
-Mr. Gibson represented to the Saints that he was securing the land for
-them, but that it would have to be deeded to him for them.
-
-For the accomplishment of his purpose, concentration and organization
-were necessary. He continued to gather the Saints to Lanai. There he
-organized all the males, old and young, into companions, and daily
-drilled them in the art of war. He informed them that, as soon as they
-were properly disciplined, it was his intention to build or purchase a
-vessel, equip it, and sail for one of the South Sea Islands. He would
-seek a favorable opportunity, conquer the natives, leave some of his
-disciplined men in charge of the conquered territory, and fill up his
-depleted ranks with raw recruits.
-
-In this way, he designed to conquer one island after another, until he
-organized a large fleet, and subjugated all the Polynesian Islands.
-Thus he hoped to realize his wildest dreams by organizing, as he
-expressed it, "_One great grand empire_," that would be able to take
-its place among the leading nations of the earth.
-
-His every act from the time of his arrival in Utah, had been designed
-for his own aggrandizement. He had learned nothing of the spirit and
-power of the gospel. The Lord is establishing His kingdom, and he
-was fighting against it. If he has not already done so, he will yet
-realize the truth of the saying of the Savior, in his teachings, when,
-on his earthly mission, he likened the Kingdom of God to a stone, and
-said, "And whosoever shall fall on this stone shall be broken: but on
-whomsoever it may fall, it will grind him to powder."
-
-Notwithstanding the Saints had been gradually led astray by Mr. Gibson,
-they felt that his teachings and practices were not the same as those
-of the Elders who had labored among them before his coming.
-
-Fearing they might be deceived, some eight of the native Elders wrote
-to brethren in Utah who had labored for many years among them. They
-stated some of the facts concerning Mr. Gibson's course, and asked for
-advice. This communication was translated and submitted to President
-Young.
-
-The First Presidency decided that Apostles E. T. Benson and Lorenzo
-Snow should visit the islands, and that Elders Joseph. F. Smith, Alma
-L. Smith, and myself, who had previously been on missions to the
-islands and understood the native language, should accompany them.
-
-We arrived at Honolulu, the capital of the islands, about the 27th
-of March, 1864. On the 29th we sailed for Lahaina, on the schooner,
-_Nettie Merrill_, Captain Fisher, for the island of Maui, a distance of
-about ninety miles from Honolulu. On the morning of the 31st of March,
-we came to anchor about one mile from the mouth of the little harbor of
-Lahaina.
-
-Apostles Ezra T. Benson, Lorenzo Snow, Brother Alma L. Smith, and
-myself, got into the small boat to go ashore. Brother Joseph F. Smith,
-as he afterwards stated, had some misgivings about going in that boat,
-but the manifestation was not sufficiently strong to indicate any
-general accident. He preferred to remain on board the vessel, until the
-boat returned.
-
-The boat started for the shore. It contained some barrels and boxes,
-the captain, a white man, two or three native passengers, and the
-boat's crew, who were also natives.
-
-The entrance to the harbor is a very narrow passage between coral
-reefs, and when the sea is rough it is very dangerous, on account of
-the breakers. Where the vessel lay the sea was not rough, but only
-presented the appearance of heavy swells rolling to the shore.
-
-As we approached the reef it was evident to me, that the surf was
-running higher than we anticipated. I called the captain's attention to
-the fact. We were running quartering across the waves, and I suggested
-that we change our course so as to run at right angles with them. He
-replied, that he did not think there was any danger, and our course was
-not changed. We went but little farther, when a heavy swell struck the
-boat and carried us before it about fifty yards. When the swell passed
-it left us in a trough between two huge waves.
-
-It was too late to retrieve our error, and we must run our chances.
-When the second swell struck the boat, it raised the stern so high that
-the steersman's oar was out of the water, and he lost control of the
-boat. It rode on the swell a short distance, and swung around just as
-the wave began to break up. We were almost instantly capsized, into the
-dashing, foaming sea.
-
-I felt no concern for myself about drowning, for while on my former
-mission I had learned to swim and sport in the surf of those shores.
-
-The last I remembered of Brother Snow, as the boat was going over I saw
-him seize the upper edge of it with both hands. Fearing that the upper
-edge of the boat, or the barrels, might hit and injure me as the boat
-was going over, I plunged head foremost into the water. After swimming
-a short distance, I came to the surface without being strangled or
-injured.
-
-The boat was bottom upwards, and barrels, hats, and umbrellas were
-floating in every direction. I swam to the boat and as there was
-nothing to cling to on the bottom, I reached under and seized the edge
-of it.
-
-About the same time, brother Benson came up near me, and readily got
-hold of the boat.
-
-The natives soon appeared, and swam about quite unconcerned for their
-own safety. Brother Alma L. Smith came up on the opposite side of the
-boat from brother Benson and myself. He was considerably strangled, but
-succeeded in securing a hold on the boat.
-
-A short time afterwards the captain was discovered, about fifty yards
-from us. Two of his sailors swam to his assistance, and, one on each
-side, succeeded in keeping him on the surface, although life was
-apparently extinct.
-
-Nothing yet had been seen of Brother Snow, although the natives had
-been swimming and diving in every direction in search of him. We were
-only about one fourth of a mile from the shore. The people, as soon as
-they discovered our circumstances, manned a life boat and hurried to
-the rescue.
-
-We were taken into the boat, when the crew wanted to row for the shore,
-and pick up the captain on the way. We told them that one of our
-friends was yet missing, and we did not want to leave, as long as there
-was any possibility of a chance to render him assistance. We discovered
-that a second boat had left the shore, and could reach the captain as
-soon as the one we were in. Seeing this, the crew of the boat we were
-in, consented to remain and assist us.
-
-The captain was taken ashore, and, by working over him for some time,
-was brought to life.
-
-The life of Captain Fisher would not, probably, have been much
-endangered, except for a sack of four or five hundred dollars in silver
-which he held in his hand. This he clung to with great tenacity. When
-the boat capsized the weight of it took him at once to the bottom. The
-natives dove and brought him up, still clinging to the sack. When his
-vitality was restored, the first thing he inquired about was the money;
-intimating to the natives, with peculiar emphasis, that it would not
-have been healthy for them to have lost it.
-
-Brother Snow had not yet been discovered, and the anxiety was intense.
-The natives were, evidently, doing all in their power.
-
-Finally, one of them, in edging himself around the capsized boat, must
-have felt Brother Snow with his feet and pulled him, at least partly,
-from under it, as the first I saw of Brother Snow was his hair floating
-upon the water as the native was dragging him through the water around
-one end of the capsized boat. As soon as we got him into our boat, we
-told the boatmen to pull for the shore with all possible speed. His
-body was stiff, and life was evidently extinct.
-
-Brother Alma L. Smith and myself were sitting side by side. We laid
-Brother Snow across our laps, and, on the way to shore, we quietly
-administered to him and asked the Lord to spare his life, that he might
-return to his family and home.
-
-On reaching the shore, we carried him a little way, to some large
-empty barrels that were lying on the sandy beach. We laid him, face
-downwards, on one of these, and rolled him back and forth until we
-succeeded in getting the water that he had swallowed out of him.
-
-During this time, a number of persons came down from the town; among
-them was Mr. E. P. Adams, a merchant. All were willing to do what they
-could. We washed Brother Snow's face with camphor, furnished by Mr.
-Adams. We did not only what was customary in such cases, but also what
-the spirit seemed to whisper to us.
-
-After working over him for some time, without any indications of
-returning life, the bystanders said that nothing more could be done
-for him. But we did not feel like giving him up, and still prayed and
-worked over him, with an assurance that the Lord would hear and answer
-our prayers.
-
-Finally we were impressed to place our mouth over his and make an
-effort to inflate his lungs, alternately blowing in and drawing out the
-air, imitating, as far as possible, the natural process of breathing.
-This we persevered in until we succeeded in inflating his lungs. After
-a little, there were very faint indications of returning vitality. A
-slight wink of the eye, which, until then, had been open and deathlike,
-and a very faint rattle in the throat, were the first symptoms of
-returning life. These grew more and more distinct, until consciousness
-was fully restored.
-
-When this result was reached, it must have been fully an hour after the
-capsizing of the boat. A Portuguese man, living in Lahaina, who, from
-the first, rendered us much assistance, invited us to take Brother Snow
-to his house. There being no Saints in the place, we gladly accepted
-his kind offer.
-
-Every possible attention was given to Brother Snow's comfort.
-
-Persons in danger and excitement, often see things a little
-differently. The following is Apostle Snow's account of the capsizing
-of the boat:
-
-"As we were moving along within some half a mile from the point where
-we expected to land, my attention was suddenly arrested by Captain
-Fisher calling to the oarsmen, in a voice which denoted some alarm,
-'Hurry up! hurry up!' I quickly discovered the cause of alarm.
-
-"A short distance behind us, I saw an immense surf, thirty or forty
-feet high rushing towards us swifter than a race horse. We had scarcely
-a moment for reflection before the huge mass was upon us. In an instant
-our boat, with its contents, as though it were only a feather, was
-hurled into the briny water, and we were under this rolling, seething,
-mountain wave.
-
-"This was certainly unexpected. It took me by surprise. I think,
-however, that I soon comprehended the situation: that we were in the
-midst of the turbulent waters, a quarter of a mile from the shore,
-without much probability of receiving human aid.
-
-"I felt confident, however, that there would be some way of escape;
-that the Lord would provide the means, for it was not possible that
-my life and mission were thus to terminate. This reliance on the Lord
-banished fear, and inspired me with hope up to the last moment of
-consciousness.
-
-"Having been somewhat subject to fainting spells, I believe that after
-a few moments in the water, I must have fainted, as I did not suffer
-the pain common in the experience of drowning persons. I had been in
-the water only a few moments, until I lost consciousness.
-
-"The first I knew afterwards, I was on shore receiving the kind and
-tender attentions of my brethren. The first recollection I have of
-returning consciousness, was seeing a very small light, the smallest
-maginable. This soon disappeared, and I was again in total darkness.
-Again it appeared, much larger than before, then sank away and left me,
-as before, in forgetfulness. Thus it continued to come and go, until,
-finally, I recognized, as I thought, persons whispering, and soon after
-I asked in a feeble whisper, 'What is the matter?'
-
-"I immediately recognized the voice of Elder Cluff, as he replied, 'You
-have been drowned; the boat upset in the surf.' Quick as lightning,
-the scene of our disaster flashed upon my mind. I immediately asked,
-'Are you brethren all safe?' The emotion that was awakened in my bosom
-by the answer of Elder Cluff, will remain as long as life continues:
-'Brother Snow, we are all safe.'
-
-"I rapidly recovered, and very soon was able to walk and accompany the
-brethren to our lodgings."
-
-As soon as Brother Snow was out of danger, it occurred to me that I had
-better return to the vessel.
-
-As I reached the deck, by the rope ladder over its side, I saw, at a
-glance, that Brother Smith was under great anxiety of mind.
-
-We were both under an intensity of feeling, which men usually
-experience only a few times in their lives. Brother Smith had been
-informed by a native that the captain and an elderly white man were
-drowned. The latter, he supposed to be Brother Benson, hence his great
-anxiety.
-
-My own nervous system was strung up to an extreme tension by the
-events of the past two hours. When I told Brother Smith that all were
-safe, the sudden revulsion of feeling almost overcame him. We rejoiced
-together that through a merciful Providence, and the faith that had
-been bestowed upon us, we were all alive.
-
-
-
-CHAPTER II.
-
-JOURNEY TO LANAI--MEET MR. GIBSON--REVERENCE OF NATIVES FOR HIM--HIS
-SPEECH AND ASSUMPTION--ELDER JOSEPH F. SMITH'S REPLY--ELDER SNOW'S
-PROPHECY--MR. GIBSON CUT OFF THE CHURCH--ELDER SNOW'S PROPHECY
-FULFILLED--ADVISED TO SELECT A NEW GATHERING PLACE--A VISION--SUITABLE
-PLACE POINTED OUT.
-
-ON the 2nd of April, Brother Snow had so far recovered his strength,
-that it was thought best to pursue our journey. We hired some natives
-to take us in an open boat across the channel, sixteen miles, to Lanai.
-We arrived at the landing place, three miles from the village, just at
-dark. We sent a messenger to Mr. Gibson, with the request that he would
-send down some saddle horses for us to ride up in the morning.
-
-Early the following morning, April 3rd, the horses were ready for us.
-An hour's ride over a rough, rocky road brought us to the settlement.
-Our reception by Mr. Gibson, and most of the native Saints, was cool
-and very formal. Many improvements had been made since our last visit,
-that were praiseworthy, and reflected great credit on Mr. Gibson.
-
-After breakfast, Apostles Benson and Snow engaged in conversation with
-Mr. Gibson on the affairs of the mission.
-
-That day and the following, were principally spent in laboring with
-Mr. Gibson and the native Elders, to get them, if possible, to see the
-condition they were in. During this time, Brothers Joseph F. Smith,
-Alma L. Smith and myself, took a ride around the valley accompanied by
-Mr. Gibson's daughter, as our guide. About one-half of a mile from Mr.
-Gibson's residence, was a large rock, the top several feet above the
-ground. Mr. Gibson had a chamber cut into this rock, in which he had
-deposited a Book of Mormon, and other things, and called it the corner
-stone of a great temple, which would be erected there. A frame work of
-poles had been constructed, in a circular form around this rock, and
-this was covered with brush.
-
-Mr. Gibson, by appealing to the pagan superstitions of the natives,
-made them believe that this spot was sacred, and if any person touched
-it, he would be struck dead.
-
-So much faith had the daughter of Mr. Gibson in the teachings of her
-father, that she related, apparently in good faith, the circumstance of
-a hen flying upon the boothe, and immediately falling down dead.
-
-Notwithstanding the protest of Miss Gibson, that it was very dangerous
-to do so, we went inside of the brush structure, and examined the rock
-and came out unharmed.
-
-We were further informed that Mr. Gibson had succeeded in surrounding
-his own person and residence with such a halo of sacredness in the
-minds of the natives, that they always entered his house on their hands
-and knees.
-
-This was repeated on other occasions. It was the old customary way,
-in which the natives had been in the habit of paying respect to their
-kings, and the custom had been revived by Mr. Gibson, in order to
-increase his personal prestige.
-
-We had previously learned that the Saints would assemble in conference
-on the 6th of April. At ten o'clock, a. m., they had assembled in the
-meeting house. We all started to go in, when Mr. Gibson made some
-excuse for returning to his house. We went and took our seats on the
-stand. The house was well filled. In a few minutes Mr. Gibson made his
-appearance. As soon as he entered the door, the entire congregation
-instantly arose to their feet, and remained standing until he was
-seated on the stand. The execution of this act of reverence evinced
-long and careful training.
-
-Mr. Gibson had, doubtless, delayed his entrance, to make a fitting
-opportunity for this exhibition. He entirely ignored the presence of
-the Apostles, and, after the people were seated, arose and gave out the
-opening hymn. This act gave evidence, at once, that he had no proper
-idea of the organization and authority of the Priesthood. Seeing this,
-President Benson called on me to pray.
-
-Without giving any time for consultation, as soon as the second hymn
-was sung, Mr. Gibson arose to his feet and commenced to address the
-congregation, in substance as follows: "My dear red-skinned brethren,
-sisters and friends, I presume you are all wondering, and anxious to
-know why these strangers have come so suddenly among us, without giving
-us any notice of their coming. I will assure you of one thing, my
-red-skinned friends, when I find out, I will be sure to let you know,
-for I am your father, and will protect you in your rights.
-
-"These strangers may say they are your friends, but let me remind
-you how, when they lived here, years ago, they lived upon your very
-scanty substance. Did they make any such improvements as you see I have
-made? Did I not come here and find you without a father, poor, and
-discouraged? Did I not gather you together here, and make all these
-improvements that you to-day enjoy?
-
-"Now, you, my red-skinned friends, must decide who your friend and
-father is; whether it is these strangers, or I, who have done so much
-for you."
-
-When he took his seat, President Benson requested Brother Joseph F.
-Smith to talk, rather intimating that it was desirable to speak on
-general principles, and that he need not feel bound to notice all that
-Mr. Gibson had said.
-
-It seemed impossible for any man to speak with greater power and
-demonstration of the Spirit. He referred the Saints to the labors of
-Brother George Q. Cannon, and the first Elders who brought them the
-gospel.
-
-He reminded them of facts with which the older Saints were well
-acquainted--the great disadvantage the Elders labored under, and the
-privations they suffered in first preaching the gospel on the islands.
-How they slept in their then miserable huts, and lived as they lived;
-how they traveled on foot, in storms, and in bad weather, from village
-to village, and from house to house, exposing health and life; how they
-went destitute of clothing, and what they had been in the habit of
-considering the necessaries of life, to bring them the blessings of the
-gospel, without money and without price.
-
-He asked by what right Mr. Gibson called himself the father of the
-people, and the Elders who faithfully labored to establish them in the
-gospel strangers.
-
-The spirit and power that accompanied Brother Smith's remarks
-astonished the Saints and opened their eyes. They began to see how
-they had been imposed upon. Every word he spoke found a response in
-their hearts, as was plainly manifest by their eager looks and animated
-countenances.
-
-There was another meeting in the afternoon, in which Apostles Benson
-and Snow addressed the Saints. Their remarks were interpreted by Elder
-Joseph F. Smith.
-
-On the 7th, there was a meeting in the forenoon. A Priesthood meeting
-was appointed for the evening, and the conference adjourned _sine die_.
-
-The meeting of the Priesthood in the evening was well attended, as it
-was understood that Mr. Gibson's course would be investigated. The
-complaints that were made by the native Elders, in the communication
-that led to our present mission, were read, and Mr. Gibson was called
-on to make answer to the charges.
-
-In addition to nearly a repetition of his harangue at the meeting on
-the day previous, his reply consisted of a bombastic display of some
-letters of appointment, and recommendations from President Young, to
-which he attached large seals, bedecked with a variety of colored
-ribbons, to give them an air of importance, and official significance,
-in the eyes of the unsophisticated natives.
-
-These papers he held up before the people, and, pointing to them said,
-with great emphasis, "Here is my authority, which I received direct
-from President Brigham Young. I don't hold myself accountable to these
-men!" meaning the Apostles and those who came with them.
-
-Had there been no other proof of the wrong course of Mr. Gibson, that
-remark was sufficient to satisfy the brethren what their plain duty
-was, and they acted promptly in the matter.
-
-Apostle E. T. Benson followed Mr. Gibson. He reviewed Mr. Gibson's past
-course, and showed that, in making merchandise of the offices of the
-Priesthood, introducing the former pagan superstitions of the people,
-for the purpose of obtaining power, and his idea of establishing a
-temporal and independent kingdom on the Pacific isles, were all in
-antagonism to the plan laid down in the gospel for the redemption of
-man. The spirit manifested by Mr. Gibson proved that he was ignorant
-of the powers of the Priesthood, or that he ignored them for purely
-selfish motives. What they had seen and heard since their arrival,
-proved that the complaints made by the native Elders, in their letters
-to Utah, were correct, as far as they went, but the half had not been
-told.
-
-Brother Benson's remarks were interpreted, after which, it was motioned
-that Mr. Gibson's course be disapproved. When this was put to a vote,
-all but one of the native Elders voted against the motion. This showed
-that Mr. Gibson still retained a strong hold on the minds of the Saints.
-
-Notwithstanding this show of strong opposition, Brother Snow arose, and
-in his remarks prophesied that Mr. Gibson would see the time that not
-one of the Saints would remain with him.
-
-Brother Joseph F. Smith remarked, that, among the scores of Elders who
-had labored on the islands, none had been so utterly wanting in the
-spirit and power of the gospel as to charge the Saints anything for
-conferring on them the blessings of the Priesthood, until Walter M.
-Gibson came, and had the presumption to claim that he had a right to
-ordain apostles and high priests, for a price--for money.
-
-The Apostles informed Mr. Gibson and the Saints that, when they left
-the islands for home, Elder Joseph F. Smith would be left in charge
-of the mission. That all those who wished to be considered in good
-standing in the Church should leave Lanai and return to their homes on
-the other islands, where the branches would be reorganized and set in
-order by the brethren who would be left for that purpose.
-
-The next day we returned to Lahaina, where we held a council and cut
-Mr. Gibson off from the Church. We returned to Honolulu, and, about
-eight days after, Apostles Snow and Benson took passage on the bark
-_Onward_, for San Francisco.
-
-Brother Snow's prophecy was literally fulfilled. The Saints all left
-Mr. Gibson and returned to their former homes, as they had been
-counseled to do. The last one to leave him was Kailihune, the Elder who
-had been left to preside over the place of gathering on Lanai.
-
-He finally rejoined the Church. All the plans of Mr. Gibson were
-completely frustrated. He is a prominent example of the nothingness of
-man, when he attempts to battle against the kingdom of God.
-
-When the Elders were called home, in 1858, there had not been time
-to do much in gathering the Saints. As Mr. Gibson had succeeded in
-obtaining a personal title to the land leased for that purpose, on
-the island of Lanai, brothers Benson and Snow advised the Elders who
-remained, to notice in their travels what appeared to them the best
-places for this purpose, that, when the time came for it, a good
-selection might be made.
-
-On the island of Oahu, and near the sea shore, lived a white man by the
-name of Doharty. He did not belong to the Church, but was friendly to
-the Saints, and the Elders frequently shared his hospitality. Between
-his house and the sea beach was a piece of ground, where grew a very
-dense thicket of a large shrub of a peculiar growth. Through this were
-paths made by the people and their domestic animals. Into this thicket
-the Elders when there were in the habit of daily retiring to pray.
-One day when I was walking along one of these paths, I saw President
-Young approach me. Said he "This is the place to gather the native
-Saints to." He seemed to fully comprehend the surroundings, and in that
-easy, familiar way, so characteristic of him, indicated the advantages
-afforded for a settlement. No matter what my bodily condition might
-have been at that time, the apparent meeting was in the open air and
-the broad light of day. It was as real to me as any fact of my life.
-I saw the facilities of the place as he represented them, and ever
-afterwards, that appeared to me the best place on the islands for the
-gathering of the Saints.
-
-We remained on the islands about six months before other Elders arrived
-from Utah, and we were released to return home. When we arrived in
-San Francisco, we met Elders F. A. Hammond, and George Nebeker, on
-their way to the Sandwich Islands. They had instructions to visit, and
-carefully examine all the islands, and make the best possible location
-that could be made available, to establish a place for the gathering of
-the Saints.
-
-I was afterwards informed, that they faithfully carried out their
-instructions, and at last decided that the place to which I have
-referred on the island of Oahu, was the best for the purpose. It was
-purchased, and many of the Saints are now gathered there.
-
-They have an extensive sugar plantation, where labor is provided for
-them, and every possible facility is afforded for their advancement.
-
-
-
-A PROPHECY FULFILLED.
-
-AN INCIDENT OF MISSIONARY EXPERIENCE.
-
-BY B. F. JOHNSON.
-
-CALLED ON A MISSION TO THE SANDWICH ISLANDS--JOURNEY BY THE
-SOUTHERN ROUTE--A PROPHECY--FEAR AFTER UTTERING IT--RESIDENCE
-IN HONOLULU--POLITICAL AND RELIGIOUS CONFLICT--THE KINGDOM IN
-JEOPARDY--DISSATISFACTION AMONG THE PEOPLE--LETTER TO THE KING
-FAVORABLY CONSIDERED--A DREAM--A PRINCE SENT BY THE KING TO ASK COUNSEL
-OF LATTER-DAY SAINT ELDERS--ADVICE ACCEPTED, AND THE KINGDOM SAVED--THE
-DREAM AND PROPHECY FULFILED TOGETHER.
-
-With eight other Elders I was called by the General October Conference
-of 1852, on a mission to the Sandwich Islands. We went by what was then
-known as the Southern route to California, in order to sail from San
-Francisco.
-
-In passing through the southern settlements of Utah, we were everywhere
-treated with kindness and respect. We were often invited to preach
-where we stopped for the night, or to spend the Sabbath. We were in
-company with many other Elders who were called to go on missions to
-China, Australia, Hindostan, Ceylon, and other places.
-
-We all, alike, took part in the meetings, and shared the hospitality of
-the Saints. At Parowan we had an unusually good time, in a meeting of
-the Saints. The Spirit of the Lord rested greatly upon both hearers and
-speakers.
-
-I was the last Elder called upon to speak, and only a few minutes were
-left for me to occupy. Being full of the good feeling and spirit of the
-meeting, I commenced, not only to bear my testimony to the truth, but
-to prophesy of the future of some of the sons of Zion who were then
-going forth as her ministers.
-
-I predicted that, through faithfulness, the wisdom of heaven would
-increase with us; that while the wicked became weaker, the Elders of
-Israel would grow wiser; that the nations of the earth would begin to
-look towards Zion for counselors and statesmen, and that, if the Elders
-now going forth to the ends of the earth were true to their calling,
-they would not all fill their missions until some of them would be
-called upon to give counsel to some of the rulers of the lands to which
-they were sent.
-
-After closing my prophecy and remarks, and I had time to ponder on what
-I had said, I began to doubt the possibility of my predictions being
-fulfilled, and began to be troubled in mind.
-
-For a time I could not divest myself of the feeling, that my prediction
-was ill-timed and not by the spirit of the gospel. I would sometimes
-query if the brethren did not regard me as a false prophet, or, at
-least, as an enthusiast.
-
-When we arrived on the Sandwich Islands, we found the work of the
-Lord progressing. The Elders who had been laboring there were greatly
-rejoiced to see us.
-
-After a general mission conference, most of the brethren left Honolulu
-for their fields of labor on the different islands. I was left at this
-capital city, in charge of the foreign interests of the mission, to
-preside over a small branch of Saints, which had been gathered from
-the foreign residents on the islands, and to preach to the people as
-I might find opportunity. I also assisted Elders Lewis and Cannon, in
-raising funds for publishing the Book of Mormon in the native language.
-
-Owing to the conflicting interests of political and religious parties
-in the Hawaiian kingdom, it was in a weak condition. The various
-missionary interests had nearly changed into political ones. Dr. Judd,
-one of the missionaries sent out by the American Board of Foreign
-Missions, had long been the king's prime minister. Another missionary,
-by the name of Armstrong, was Minister of Public Instruction, and other
-Americans filled the offices of Minister of Foreign Relations, Chief
-Justice, Attorney General, etc.
-
-This missionary-political power began to cause great jealousy,
-especially in the case of Dr. Judd. Through his political advantages he
-had acquired much wealth, and, apparently by its use, raised himself up
-to be a power behind the throne, greater than the throne itself.
-
-King Kamehameha III., like George the III., of England, had not reached
-a high standard of virtue, or political economy. It was said that, for
-money borrowed of Dr. Judd, he had given a mortgage on the royal palace.
-
-As he had no children of his own he had adopted as next in succession,
-two sons of his sister, who were princes of the realm. About this
-time two projects were deeply agitating the public mind. One was the
-annexation of the islands to the United States, the other, a British
-protectorate over them. Neither of these projects suited the interests
-of the young princes, or pleased the majority of the people.
-
-There appeared to be but one thing upon which nearly all the
-natives could agree, that was opposition to Dr. Judd as the king's
-prime minister. He was, of course, sustained by some of his fellow
-missionaries, but appeared to be detested by the majority of those
-around him. Petition after petition was sent to the king, asking for,
-and even demanding, his removal. The court house and other large halls
-were crowded with indignation meetings, to protest against his being
-retained in office.
-
-It seemed, at times, as though the people would break out in tumult and
-insurrection, yet the king made no move to give them satisfaction, and,
-for many days, no answer was given to their petitions.
-
-All this time I had been a careful observer, and had attended their
-meetings. I had previously written a lengthy letter to the king,
-explaining the gospel as now revealed and the object of our mission to
-the islands.
-
-This letter he had caused to be published in the government journal,
-both in the English and Hawaiian languages. Such was the impression
-the reading of it made on his mind, that he sent, through the Minister
-of Foreign Relations, to say that he would give us an audience at his
-earliest convenience. Up to the time of which I am writing, he had not
-found the convenient opportunity.
-
-In the midst of this political commotion, I, one night, dreamed that
-I stood upon an eminence near a large mountain. I saw below me upon
-the bank of a small, but rapid stream, a large and rudely constructed
-frame building, apparently designed for machinery. It was not yet fully
-enclosed.
-
-As I looked, I saw a dense smoke arise from the building, and heard the
-cry of fire from a large number of people.
-
-It seemed that the wind blew strong from the mountain towards the
-building. The people came up on the opposite side of the building,
-to put out the fire, and they were blinded by the smoke which blew
-in their faces. I thought how foolish they were, to thus stay on the
-opposite side from the wind, to be blinded with the smoke.
-
-Looking, I saw a bucket with a rope attached on a flume through which
-the water ran. I quickly took it up, drew it full of water, looked for
-the center of the fire, dashed it in, and, all at once, the flame was
-extinguished.
-
-I thought a multitude of people came crowding into the building,
-wondering by whom the fire had been extinguished. Although I was with
-them, they appeared to comprehend nothing of my agency in the matter.
-I thought they were almost wild with joy, that the building, although
-somewhat charred and damaged, had been saved. They calculated that the
-damage the building had sustained was about fifty thousand dollars.
-
-I awoke in the morning, strangely impressed with the dream. I related
-it to Brother Nathan Tanner, who was then with me. I told him I thought
-we should see its interpretation.
-
-That morning, Brother Tanner called on one of the native Saints, who
-was living with Halalea, one of the highest native chiefs. He was
-a special friend of, and a counselor to, the king, and the man who
-carried him my letter.
-
-He told Brother Tanner that the king had appointed him to come with
-Prince Rehoreho, to meet us that night at our rooms, lay before us the
-king's great political trouble, and get our counsel.
-
-It came plainly to me, then, that therein would be the fulfillment
-of my dream. About ten o'clock the same evening, they called on us.
-They said the king was greatly exercised in his mind over the troubled
-condition of his government, and that he was not decided as to what was
-best to do.
-
-He said that he could not trust to the counsel of his ministers, nor to
-the advice of the ministers of other nations then at his court, for all
-had some point to gain. Dr. Judd, in his past troubles, had been his
-adviser, and, in times of need, had supplied him with money.
-
-It pained him, then, to turn out of office one who had so long been his
-friend, and, upon this subject, he wished us to give him our wisest
-counsel.
-
-While Halalea and the prince were delivering their message, I was
-continually praying in my heart that the Lord would give us wisdom to
-say such things as would do honor to His cause, for I felt very small
-for such an important occasion.
-
-After they delivered the king's message in full, I arose and told
-them that we were not sent to meddle with governments, nor to teach
-political science, but to preach the gospel of Christ as now revealed.
-But, inasmuch as the king was our friend, and desired counsel of us, we
-would give him such as the Lord would put in our hearts.
-
-I told them the Bible said, that "when the wicked rule the people
-mourn;" that if Dr. Judd was really a good man and a true friend to
-the king, as the king had believed him to be, he would not now allow
-the king to be in such great trouble on his account, but, like a true
-friend, would resign his office for the sake of peace between the king
-and his subjects.
-
-The fact that he was disposed to hold on to his office, at the
-expense of peace to the king's realm, showed, conclusively, that he
-was influenced by other motives than the peace and welfare of the
-kingdom. "We feel," said I, "that the present great political trouble
-and mourning is owing to Dr. Judd not being a good man, but wickedly
-holding a grasp upon the government office against the wishes of the
-people, for which there is no necessity, as the king has many true
-subjects of more than equal ability, any one of whom he could appoint
-as Dr. Judd's successor."
-
-When I ceased speaking, the king's messengers clasped my hands and
-said: "The things you have told us we had not thought of, and they are
-true. The king will be glad when we tell him what you have said, for
-we can see it plainly, now. We will assure you that, at ten o'clock
-to-morrow, you will hear the king's herald proclaiming through the
-streets of the city that Dr. Judd is removed from office."
-
-They left us with the warmest feelings of gratitude and friendship.
-
-The next morning at ten o'clock, the heralds were heard proclaiming the
-dismissal of Dr. Judd. The news created wonder and astonishment among
-the people, and they hurried together with public demonstrations of
-joy. They greatly marveled and queried by what agency, or through whose
-influence this long delayed, though most desirable object had been
-attained.
-
-As I had dreamed, so I saw the people greatly rejoicing, and, although
-I was daily among them, they had no thought that a Latter-day Saint
-could have had any agency in so important a matter.
-
-At night the city was brilliantly illuminated. There were few windows
-in it that did not have, at least, one candle to each pane of glass.
-
-In a settlement with Dr. Judd, as I had dreamed, the government found
-that it had lost fifty thousand dollars.
-
-Thus my prophecy and my dream were fulfilled together, and peace
-returned to the people. Joy came to our hearts that the Lord, through
-the inspiration of His Holy Spirit, had made us, His humble Elders, the
-means of giving saving counsel to princes.
-
-
-
-SPECIAL PROVIDENCES.
-
-CIRCUMSTANCES UNDER WHICH THE EARLY TEMPLES WERE BUILT--HOW THE WORKMEN
-WERE ENCOURAGED--ARRIVAL OF BROTHER L--IN NAUVOO--HIS WILLINGNESS TO
-WORK WITHOUT PAY--HIS EXTREME WANT--APPEALS TO GOD FOR HELP--MONEY
-MIRACULOUSLY PROVIDED--PRAYER FOR FOOD ANSWERED--PROVIDENTIAL FINDING
-OF A PAIR OF SHOES ON THE PLAINS--A CRIPPLED SHOULDER RESTORED WHILE
-DEFENDING THE CHARACTER OF JOSEPH SMITH.
-
-If a record had been kept of all the facts connected with the building
-of the Kirtland and Nauvoo Temples, it would tell a curious story of
-poverty, self-denial, dependence upon God and wants providentially
-supplied.
-
-No doubt such a record has been kept, but not here on earth. We have
-not access to it. But many, very many of those who had the privilege
-of aiding in the work of building those temples have gone to meet that
-record. Some doubtless will meet it with satisfaction, with joy untold;
-others with remorse and self-reproach.
-
-Could the Saints of the present day peruse that record, it would put
-many of them to the blush to think they had done so little in aid of
-such works. They would see that, though they have enjoyed peace and
-plenty, they have done almost nothing towards the temples in our day,
-compared with what the poor Saints did in building those earlier houses
-of God.
-
-The Kirtland Temple was built when the Saints were few in number and
-in great poverty, and though comparatively small in size, the erection
-of such a building by the tithes and voluntary donations of those who
-were faithful, was a very great undertaking. That it was finished in
-so short a time was remarkable, and this fact speaks volumes for the
-devotion of the Saints of that early day.
-
-When the Nauvoo Temple was commenced, the Saints had increased
-considerably in numbers, but were, as a rule, even poorer than in the
-days of Kirtland. They had been persecuted by their enemies, driven
-from their homes and plundered of their property. Finding a temporary
-rest in a bend of the Mississippi river, a locality noted for its
-insalubrity, they had struggled in the midst of malarial sickness and
-severe privations to establish new homes, and had only just begun to
-gather a few comforts around them when they were required by revelation
-from the Lord to build a temple to His name.
-
-Upon that temple, many of the Saints labored month after month, with
-an energy and interest that only religious zeal can impart. They had
-learned something of the use and importance of temples, before that
-building was commenced, but as the work advanced more light was given
-them from time to time. The Prophet of God would visit the workmen and
-instruct and encourage them in their labors personally, frequently
-pronouncing blessings upon their heads for their diligence and
-faithfulness, and when persecution became so strong that he was obliged
-to hide from his enemies, he sent the written word to stimulate them in
-their labors, and explained the doctrine of baptism for the dead, then
-newly revealed.
-
-While living thus in seclusion, he wrote to the Saints in Nauvoo, on
-the 1st of September, 1842: "And again, verily thus saith the Lord,
-let the work of my temple, and all the works which I have appointed
-unto you, be continued on and not cease; and let your diligence, and
-your perseverance, and patience, and your works be redoubled, and you
-shall in nowise lose your reward, saith the Lord of hosts. And if they
-persecute you, so persecuted they the prophets and righteous men that
-were before you. For all this there is a reward in heaven."
-
-Again, on the 6th of the same month, he wrote additional words of
-encouragement, unfolding still farther that glorious saving principle
-as it had been revealed to him, and roused the workmen to action by
-this stirring appeal: "Brethren, shall we not go on in so great a
-cause? Go forward and not backward. Courage, brethren; and on, on to
-the victory! Let your hearts rejoice, and be exceeding glad. Let the
-earth break forth into singing. Let the dead speak forth anthems of
-eternal praise to the King Immanuel, who hath ordained before the world
-was, that which would enable us to redeem them out of their prison; for
-the prisoners shall go free."
-
-Being thus encouraged, and knowing that the time allowed for building
-the house was limited, the men worked with a will and determination
-that made success certain. Though they had to stand guard at night to
-prevent their enemies from surprising the city during the darkness and
-slaying its defenseless inhabitants, they did not cease their exertions
-during the daytime to erect the house of God. Though they went on
-short rations till some of them actually fainted beside their work,
-from sheer hunger and exhaustion, still they persevered. Though the
-mechanics employed upon the temple had tempting offers of abundant work
-and ready pay if they would go outside of Nauvoo and labor, many of
-them preferred to remain and work without pecuniary reward in rearing
-that sacred structure.
-
-The case of one of those workmen will serve to illustrate the
-self-sacrificing disposition manifested by many of those who labored
-upon that building, as well as the way their simple wants were
-sometimes supplied by the Almighty.
-
-Brother L--arrived in Nauvoo from England, his native country, in
-March, 1844. He was an excellent mechanic, had held good situations and
-been in good circumstances in the "old country," and his skill as a
-workman was such as to command ready employment and high wages in any
-of the large cities of America, had such been his object.
-
-But he had embraced the gospel and received a testimony of its truth,
-and afterwards the spirit of gathering with the Saints, which enabled
-him to brook the taunts and ridicule heaped upon him by friends and
-relatives for his unpopular faith, and resist the pleading of aged
-parents, who were loath to part with him.
-
-His faith and zeal were such that he had left friends and property and
-all that he had formerly held dear, and come to America that he might
-be with the chosen people of God and assist in building up Zion.
-
-He was ambitious to labor upon the temple, and applied for work
-immediately upon his arrival in Nauvoo. When informed that there was
-plenty of work but nothing to pay with, he replied that pay was no
-consideration.
-
-He took hold with a determination, and worked with all the energy with
-which the young, strong and enthusiastic nature was capable from that
-time until the work upon the temple ceased, upwards of two years, and
-during that time only received in cash for his services the small
-amount of fifty cents.
-
-Many a time he felt the pangs of hunger, and went to his work fasting
-rather than join with his family in eating the last ration of food in
-their possession, but the Lord sustained him by His Spirit, gave him
-joy in his labors and provided a way for more food to be obtained to
-sustain the lives of himself and family.
-
-He and his young wife had a habit of appealing to the Almighty in
-prayer when in an extremity, and they invariably found comfort in so
-doing, and generally had their prayers answered.
-
-Upon one occasion, their infant child was dangerously sick, and they
-felt the want of twenty-five cents to procure some medicine with. Where
-to get it they did not know, and so, as usual, they prayed to the Lord
-to open their way to obtain it. They felt an assurance on arising from
-their knees that their prayer would be answered, but they knew not
-how. Soon afterwards the husband happened to feel some hard substance
-in the waistband of his pants, and called his wife's attention to it,
-wondering what it could be. The pants were almost new. They had been
-made to order for him only a short time before. There was no hole
-in the band, and it seemed that, whatever it was, it must have been
-inserted between the pieces of cloth when the pants were being made,
-and yet he thought it strange that he had not discovered it before.
-
-To solve the mystery, a few stitches were cut, and the waistband
-opened, when, lo! there were two new ten cent pieces and one five cent
-piece--just the amount of money they required to buy medicine with.
-
-Lest the money might have been lost by the tailor who made the pants, a
-very poor man who lived neighbor to them, he took it to him and asked
-him, but that impecunious individual said he knew it could not be his,
-for he had never had a cent of money in his possession for months.
-
-They accepted it as a gift from the Lord, bought the medicine their
-child needed and he was soon well.
-
-When the work on the temple was nearing completion, the food supply for
-the family became entirely exhausted, and there seemed no prospect of
-obtaining any more without quitting the work on the temple and going
-elsewhere for employment. That, of course, Brother L--was averse to
-doing, and in this, as in other cases of extremity, he and his wife
-retired to their bedroom to lay the matter before the Lord. They had
-scarcely finished their prayer when a knock was heard at the door. On
-opening it, they found a man there who said he desired a particular job
-of work done, which he did not feel like entrusting to anyone else but
-Brother L--. However, he was in no particular hurry for it, it need
-not be done till the work on the temple was completed, but he wanted
-to arrange and pay for it then, as he was going on a foreign mission.
-"But," said he, "I have nothing to pay you for it but wheat; can you
-use that?"
-
-It was the very thing the family stood most in need of; it was
-gratefully accepted and regarded as a direct answer to their prayer,
-and within a short time the wheat was ground and a good supply of flour
-returned from it.
-
-When the Saints were preparing to leave Nauvoo, wagons for the journey
-were in great demand, and every person among them who had ever worked
-at wagon-making, and very many also who never had, set to work making
-them. Good timber was tolerably plentiful, but iron cost cash, and that
-was a scarce article. All sorts of nonedescript vehicles were hastily
-improvised, many of them so rude in their construction as to put the
-veriest bungler of a wheelwright to the blush for their appearance. Yet
-under the blessing of God they did good service. Some of them, for the
-want of iron, were made almost entirely of wood. In some extreme cases
-they were even made without the usual iron tires, strips of rawhide
-being nailed on the felloes as a substitute. One, at least, of the
-wagons made in this fashion stood the trip across the plains, and was
-used for several years after its arrival in Salt Lake Valley.
-
-Brother L--had been fortunate enough to get the wood work of a wagon
-made, but how to procure the iron was a question which greatly
-perplexed him. However, he knew that he was engaged in the Lord's
-service, and he felt that he had a claim upon His mercy and blessings.
-Accordingly, he and his wife made their want a subject of earnest
-prayer, and then went on about their duties, trusting in the Lord to
-answer their petition.
-
-Soon afterwards Brother L--had occasion to go out on the prairie in
-search of his cow, which had strayed off, and during his absence
-encountered a drenching shower, so that when he returned home he found
-it necessary to change his clothing. He hung his wet clothes before
-a fire in the open fireplace to dry, and as he did so a bright gold
-sovereign, a ten and a five cent piece dropped to the floor, apparently
-from his pocket. He knew, however, that he had no money previously, and
-he could account for its presence there only by its having been sent by
-the Lord. It was the exact amount required to purchase the iron for his
-wagon, and it was soon obtained and the wagon finished.
-
-With such manifestations as these of God's goodness, he was encouraged
-to continue in his labors upon the temple of God, and when it was so
-far completed that the holy ordinances for which it was designed could
-be performed in it, he felt repaid in the blessings which he therein
-received for all his efforts towards its construction.
-
-A rather remarkable case of special providence occurred when Brother
-L--was crossing the plains, coming to Salt Lake Valley. His shoes gave
-out, and his feet became very sore from having to walk so much while
-driving his ox-team, etc. Early one morning, when he, in company with
-another brother, were out hunting for their cattle, he exclaimed to his
-companion as he limped and hobbled over the rocky ground, "Oh! I do
-wish the Lord would send me a pair of shoes!"
-
-He had not walked many rods after expressing this wish when he saw
-something lying a short distance ahead of him, and called the attention
-of his companion to it, who remarked that it must be the bell and strap
-lost off one of the oxen, but to the inexpressible joy of Brother L--,
-he found, on approaching the object, that it was a new pair of shoes,
-which had evidently never been worn, and which he found, on trying them
-on, to fit him as well as if they had been made for him. He thanked the
-Lord for them, for he felt that it was through His merciful providence
-that they had been left there, and went on his way rejoicing. The shoes
-did him good service.
-
-While alluding to Brother L--, another incident may be related from his
-experience to illustrate the manner in which the Almighty sustains and
-blesses those who are valiant in defending His cause and the character
-of His anointed servants.
-
-At an early period in the settlement of Salt Lake Valley, Brother
-L--had a severe attack of inflammatory rheumatism and bilious fever,
-from which he suffered a long time, and which drew his shoulder out of
-place and left him in a very helpless condition. He was in that fix
-for about six months--able to walk about, but unable to make any use
-whatever of one arm. He could not even dress himself. Surgeons examined
-his shoulder, and assured him that it was out of joint, and urged him
-to have it set. He, however, declined accepting their advice, as he had
-faith that the Lord would make him whole in answer to his prayer.
-
-Living neighbor to him in Salt Lake City, and holding an office to
-which he had been appointed by the vote of the members of the Ward, was
-a man by the name of Gallup, who was a rank apostate at heart, although
-he had a standing in the Church.
-
-In conversation with Brother L--one day, this man Gallup advocated the
-doctrines of a certain man named Cladden Bishop, who had once belonged
-to the Church but who had apostatized and attempted to start a church
-of his own.
-
-Brother L--became so disgusted with his false reasoning and bitter,
-malignant spirit that he went to the Bishop of the Ward and made
-complaint about such a man as Gallup being allowed to hold an office in
-the Ward or even a membership in the Church.
-
-The result was, a Priesthood meeting was called and Mr. Gallup was
-cited to appear and state his views upon the subject of religion.
-
-In the course of his speech he declared: "Joseph Smith was a wicked and
-adulterous man; he ate and drank with the drunkard, his lot was cast
-with the hypocrite and unbeliever, and he has gone to hell."
-
-This was too much for Brother L--to stand, even in his crippled
-condition. He could not tamely submit to hear the character of a man
-assailed whom he loved dearer than his life. Jumping to his feet and
-springing over the benches that stood between him and Mr. Gallup, he
-made for him with the intention of administering summary vengeance.
-Several persons immediately interposed to prevent him from inflicting
-any bodily injury upon Gallup, and it was noticed that he made use
-of his crippled arm, and when the excitement subsided he discovered
-himself that his shoulder had assumed its natural position and that he
-was as well as he ever had been.
-
-Gallup, of course, was cut off from the Church, and thought himself
-fortunate, no doubt, in escaping a castigation, and Brother L--went
-home rejoicing, and entered his house swinging his arm which had been
-so long useless and shouting for joy, while his wife wept tears of
-gratitude for the goodness of God in bringing about his restoration to
-health and soundness.
-
-
-
-
-INCIDENTS ON THE PLAINS.
-
-BY A. M. C.
-
-CHAPTER I.
-
-ARMY SENT TO UTAH--MISSIONARIES CALLED HOME--LARGE NUMBER ASSEMBLE
-AT FLORENCE--DANGERS OF THE TRIP--COUNCIL TO DECIDE UPON COURSE OF
-ACTION--FORTUNATE FOG--PROVIDENTIAL STORM.
-
-IN 1857, James Buchanan, who was then President of the United States,
-sent an army to this Territory, for the purpose, it was said, of
-punishing the "Mormons" for breaking the laws and doing violence to the
-Judges who had been sent here.
-
-This was the excuse given for the army being sent; but the people of
-the Territory had not violated the laws nor done any injury to any of
-the officers of the Government; they were then, as they ever have been,
-peaceable and law abiding.
-
-The real object for sending the troops here, was to crush out what the
-world called "Mormonism."
-
-The principal men who urged the sending of troops here, were traitors
-in their hearts against the Government, and they hoped by taking these
-steps to divert the attention of the country from their own wicked
-schemes; and also to get the army of the United States out of the way
-by having it sent to this distant region. By accomplishing this, they
-thought they could operate to advantage in bringing about their own
-designs.
-
-The army was kept out at Fort Bridger all that winter and many of the
-officers and soldiers were very angry because they could not come into
-our cities and enjoy themselves at our expense.
-
-When it was found that the army was marching here, and there was likely
-to be trouble, the Elders in Europe and in the United States were
-re-called; but feelings ran so high in the United States against our
-people that it was somewhat dangerous for a man to travel and be known
-as a Mormon. On the plains there were men on the watch for every one
-bearing the name of Latter-day Saint.
-
-It was under these circumstances that the Elders assembled at the
-frontiers to return home. One hundred and ten of them crossed the
-Missouri river in the beginning of May, 1858, at the point formerly
-known as Winter Quarters; at present it is called Florence.
-
-They were anxious to get home, some of them having been absent a year
-and others for three or four years.
-
-There were, in reality, two companies; one composed of Elders returning
-from the United States and Canada, Elder David Brinton being their
-captain, and the Elders returning from Europe, who had Elder John W.
-Berry as their captain. It was deemed advisable, however, in view of
-the troubled and uncertain state of affairs, for both companies to
-travel together.
-
-The writer was in the company of Elders returning from the United
-States, where he had been on a mission for upwards of three years.
-
-We had heard of several of our brethren being taken by the army and
-held under threats, and we knew not what our fate would be were the
-soldiers to get us in their power; for they accused every Latter-day
-Saint of treachery to the Government while they themselves were in
-reality the traitors as the subsequent careers of many of them fully
-proved.
-
-Many thought that, as the roads were all blocked, and carefully watched
-by the troops, when we came in the vicinity of the army we would be
-under the necessity of burning or abandoning our wagons and everything
-that we could not pack on our animals.
-
-Among the brethren was a man whose name was Pope; he had a wife and
-two or three small children. They were very anxious to accompany us,
-and, although the perils we were about to encounter were of a serious
-nature, they could not be induced by anything that could be said to
-them to remain behind. A council of the Elders was held upon their
-case, and it was agreed to permit Brother Pope to accompany us, as well
-as four brethren who proposed walking the entire distance to the Valley.
-
-It was a time that required faith to be exercised, for the affairs of
-the Saints were in a critical condition. We knew, however, that God had
-delivered us when we had relied upon Him, and we united with great zeal
-in imploring His blessing, that He might overrule everything in such a
-manner that we could return in safety to the society of our families
-and friends.
-
-After leaving Winter Quarters we traveled on without interruption until
-we drew near to Fort Kearny. Our road was on the north side of the
-Platte, and Fort Kearney was on the south side. There were troops at
-the Fort and they were on the alert to prevent companies of men or any
-kind of aid passing over the road to help the "Mormons" in Utah; for
-they pretended to look upon our people as public enemies.
-
-It was our custom at such times to hold a council, and take into
-consideration the best course to pursue. The Elders all came together
-and we prayed to the Lord, and asked Him to bestow upon us His Holy
-Spirit and to lead and guide us in our operations. When we unitedly
-decided in council upon pursuing a certain course we always felt that
-that was the mind and will of the Lord unto us.
-
-It was decided at this council that we should avoid attracting the
-attention of the people of the Fort by passing it in the night.
-
-Unfortunately, as it seemed at the time, it rained heavily that evening
-and we were only able to travel until a little past midnight. By that
-time ourselves and our animals were so thoroughly fatigued and the
-night was so dark that we were compelled to stop and tie up for the
-night.
-
-Our reflections were not very pleasant, because we felt sure that when
-morning dawned upon us we would be in full sight of the fort, and
-undoubtedly would receive a visit from the officers and troops.
-
-We awoke with the dawn of day, and instead of being able to see
-the fort, or its occupants being able to see us, we found our camp
-enveloped in a fog, the mist being so dense that it was with difficulty
-we could see each other. We traveled on in the fog until afternoon, by
-which time we were out of sight of the fort.
-
-After leaving this point we had plenty of game, buffalo, antelope,
-etc., and we were able to obtain an abundance of fresh meat, which made
-this part of the journey exceedingly pleasant; for though in an Indian
-country, we had not the fear of the wild and savage red men that we had
-of those of our own color, who professed to be the loyal citizens of
-our government.
-
-As we approached the junction of the North and South Platte, a herd
-of mules passed us. They were being driven in the direction of Fort
-Laramie and were traveling at a much faster gait than we were going.
-The men who were driving them saw us, and we fully expected they would
-carry the intelligence to the fort of our being close by. It was known
-that "Mormon" Elders were returning to the Valley, and the military
-were prepared to stop them, or to otherwise interfere with them.
-
-When within half a day's travel of Fort Laramie, another council was
-called to take into consideration the best course to pursue. We settled
-the matter by determining to rest on Sunday, rise early the following
-morning and pass the fort in daylight, as we felt satisfied the troops
-were informed of our approach by the men who had just passed us.
-
-Monday was a beautiful day; we traveled on without interruption until
-we came in sight of the fort, which was about one o'clock, when one of
-the severest hailstorms any of us had ever seen broke upon us. The hail
-fell so rapidly that our animals could scarcely travel on account of
-their feet balling up with it. Our train had been seen from the fort
-and parties had started to meet us; but when the storm broke upon them,
-they were compelled to retreat to their quarters. The storm was too
-severe for them to remain out in it.
-
-I learned afterwards that when the storm ceased a company of men had
-been sent from Fort Laramie to overtake us. They followed us as far as
-the North Platte bridge, and not being able to reach us at this point,
-they deemed it best to return again to the fort. We were not aware of
-this at the time; but having traveled leisurely from Kearny to Laramie,
-our animals were in much better condition than when we started; and
-fearing that the people at Laramie might make some attempt to stop
-us, we made forced drives until we reached Independence Rock on the
-Sweetwater. Thus the Lord again delivered us from the hands of our
-enemies in a most providential manner; for had it not been for this
-hailstorm it is altogether likely we would have been stopped.
-
-
-
-CHAPTER II.
-
-APOSTATES MET--THE CHAPLAIN SEPARATES FROM THE COMPANY TO MEET SOME
-APOSTATES--AN ADVENTUROUS TRIP--DISCHACHARGED GOVERNMENT TEAMSTERS
-INDIGNANT AT "MORMONS"--PLOT TO STEAL THE CHAPLAIN'S HORSE--ADVICE TO
-THE APOSTATES TO LOOK TO THEIR OWN SAFETY--MR. STOUT'S COMPASSION FOR
-THE HATCHET-FACED MISSOURIAN--HOW HIS CONFIDENCE WAS REWARDED--MEET
-CAPTAIN HATCH--NEWS OF BUCHANAN'S AMNESTY PROCLAMATION--EVADE THE ARMY,
-AND REACH THE VALLEY SAFELY.
-
-At the Three Crossings of the Sweetwater we met a company of apostates,
-who were in full retreat from the Valley, unwilling to trust God's
-providence to screen them from the wrath of our enemies, and anxious to
-get back to the States.
-
-The night following we encamped at the eastern end of what is known as
-the Seminole cut-off. The company intended to travel on this cut-off in
-the morning.
-
-That evening the chaplain of our company, a young Elder who had a
-fondness for adventure, proposed that he should travel on the old
-route, for the purpose of meeting a man for whom he had transacted
-some business in the States, and who, he was informed, was returning
-in a company of apostates. Captains Berry and Brinton thought he ought
-not to attempt to go by that route alone; at this, one of the other
-Elders volunteered to accompany him. But when morning came the latter
-had changed his mind; for it had stormed during the night, snow had
-fallen and it still snowed very hard, and he thought the weather too
-disagreeable for so lonely a trip.
-
-Mr. Chaplain, however, in opposition to all remonstrances, was resolved
-to go, and he started out alone, on horseback, taking with him some
-blankets and a few crackers. It was the eleventh day of June--a strange
-time, you would think, for snow to fall, yet it continued to descend
-until the middle of the afternoon, and was so deep that when he came
-to a place on the Sweetwater, called the Rocky Ridge, he was obliged
-to dismount and lead his pony. It was a lonely trip which he took, and
-through a wild, desolate country; it was with considerable pleasure,
-therefore, that he came in sight of the camp which he sought just as
-the sun was going down.
-
-It was encamped on what is known as Quaking-Aspen Creek. The man whom
-he expected to meet was not in the company; but he found others whom he
-had known, persons who did not love the gospel sufficiently to endure
-the trials promised to the Saints; but were desirous to return to that
-Babylon from which they had been gathered.
-
-When the chaplain rejoined his companions, the Elders, he related
-the incidents of this trip and I was permitted to take the following
-account from his journal:
-
- "I had just staked my animal to feed upon the brush in the
- neighborhood of the camp, when a company of discharged Government
- teamsters passed by on their way east, under the guidance of George
- Merrick. On account of the hardships they had endured the previous
- winter, they were very indignant at everybody called "Mormon."
- They had calculated on enjoying themselves at our people's expense
- in the Valley; but instead of that, they had been kept out in the
- mountains all winter, and they were disappointed. An hour later one
- Ephraim Thornton, a young man who, when a boy, in Nauvoo, had been
- a schoolmate of mine, but who was now an apostate, took me aside
- and informed me of a plan which had been arranged to rob me of my
- horse. A discharged Government teamster had sworn to take it, or
- die in the attempt.
-
- "I thanked Mr. Thornton for the information; but I advised him to
- have the camp look to their own affairs, and I would conduct mine,
- adding that I did not fear that teamster's threats, as 'barking
- dogs seldom bite.'
-
- "There was one Mr. Stout in this company, with whom I conversed.
- He was bound for the States, and was accompanied by his wife. He
- told me that he had been successful in raising stock in Cedar
- Valley, and had sold them for the gold to the army he had just
- passed at Fort Bridger. He pointed out to me a young hatchet-faced
- Missourian, with long hair and snake-like appearance, whom he
- represented as a Government teamster, a poor fellow for whom he
- felt compassion and whom he was carrying to his home. It was vain
- for me to advise him not to trust Mr. Hatchet-face too far. He had
- confidence in him; I had none; I would not have trusted him out of
- my sight. My views in relation to him received speedy confirmation;
- for while standing with my back to the fire looking in the
- direction of my pony, I heard Mr. Stout swear very hard at his wife
- for leaving the wagon. His sack of gold, amounting to $1.500 had
- disappeared. An investigation revealed the fact that not only was
- the gold missing, but crackers, blankets, several watches and other
- things, besides a race mare belonging to one Joseph Greenwood, were
- all gone, and with them the poor fellow, the Missourian, for whom
- Mr. Stout had felt so much compassion! It afterwards transpired
- that he had been making his arrangements for flight for several
- days. My advice to Mr. Thornton for the camp to look to their own
- affairs was very timely, as this transaction proved.
-
- "That my horse might not be stolen I made my bed upon the snow,
- holding the bridle in my hand, and my pistols ready for use in my
- belt. But I was undisturbed. I arose in the morning and left the
- camp and its misery to continue my journey towards the home of
- our people. As I left the last crossing of the Sweetwater and was
- ascending the South Pass, I met a company of our brethren, under
- Captain Abram Hatch, going to the North Platte on business. It
- was fortunate that I took this route, for they had word for our
- company which, had I not met them, we would not have received. Upon
- learning where the Elders were, they turned and accompanied me. We
- found the company on the cut-off, five miles from its junction with
- the old road."
-
-Our chaplain seemed happy at rejoining us, and from his wearied looks
-and blistered face, we judged he would not soon go again in search of
-apostates. But, as he said in his journal, it was fortunate that he
-had taken that route. The providence of the Lord was in it, and it was
-overruled for our good by his meeting Captain Hatch and companions.
-They brought us President Buchanan's amnesty proclamation, which
-was read, also the intelligence of our people's move South: also
-instructions from President Young to the effect that unless otherwise
-instructed, we were to take the Sublet cut-off to the north until we
-struck Bear river, and then travel on the trail which would lead us to
-the head of Echo Canyon.
-
-From Captain Hatch, also, we learned that it was the intention of Col.
-Albert Sidney Johnson, the commander of the army, to leave Fort Bridger
-the following Monday for the Valley.
-
-But little remains to be said of our journey home after parting with
-Captain Abram Hatch and companions. We had reached the Big Bend on the
-Sandy, when we found that we had passed the Sublet cut-off and were
-where the Kinney cut-off led north. It was decided in council to travel
-on that route.
-
-We soon struck Green river, and as if Providence had arranged affairs
-for us, we found a fine ferry boat tied at the river side, upon which
-we crossed. We continued to travel by this route from this point
-to Bear river, which we crossed in our wagon boxes, there being no
-boat, and swam our horses. Bear river not being very wide, we had no
-difficulty in crossing by this means.
-
-We came into Echo canyon twelve miles west of Yellow Creek. From
-mountaineers whom some of the Elders met, and who were going east with
-supplies to meet the army, we learned that Johnson and the army were
-encamped that night on Yellow Creek. They also informed the brethren
-that a company of two hundred and fifty sappers and miners were ahead
-of us, repairing the road and removing obstructions before the advance
-of the army.
-
-We overtook this company next morning. Had they suspected that we had
-not been seen by the main army, they would very likely have stopped us.
-But they had no idea that we had come by any other route, and therefore
-after asking us how far back the command was, the order was given,
-"Clear the road, boys, and let them pass." From this point we traveled
-on until we reached Salt Lake City without meeting any incident worthy
-of note.
-
-
-
-
-
-
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