A story of love, in the rugged setting of pioneer days, is
the theme of this book. The characters of the story move among the
stirring incidents of the Echo Canyon War--an affair absolutely unique
in the history of the land. The scenes and events depict faithfully
the conditions that, according to the historians--Tullidge, Whitney
and Bancroft--prevailed in and about the Territory of Utah during the
period of the "War." Much information has also been gathered from Vol.
II of the Contributor and from numerous pioneers who recall vividly the
intensity of feeling that characterized the days of "Johnston's Army"
and "the Move." The characters of the story are, of course, mainly
fictitious and have had an existence only in the author's mind. John
Stevens is a composite; his outer appearance was faintly suggested
by an obscure character of pioneer days; many pioneers knew and will
recognize Aunt Clara; Diantha was modeled after a woman yet living in
the prime of her life.
Young people often think that romance and thrilling episodes, for which
youth hungers, are not found within daily life; and frequently go to
perilous lengths in search for that which in fact is right at home.
An avowed purpose of this book is to show that there is plenty of
romance and color in every-day life--if the eye be not life-colorblind.
If, therefore, John Stevens, with his big, generous heart can awaken
the soul of one youth to a higher courage, a more manly outlook upon
the splendidly hard discipline of pioneer Western life; if Diantha's
suffering and sweet Ellen's sad death help just one vacillating girl
to a realization of the dangers with which the path of love and youth
are always strewn, then indeed will the author be satisfied. The last
two chapters were written at the solicitation of Diantha herself. She
begged that the "girls" might be made to see how sweet and enthralling
true, pure and sanctified married affection can be.
It is fitting that acknowledgment be here made of the careful and
helpful service rendered by the many friends who have read, re-read,
suggested, corrected, approved, criticized and molded "John Stevens"
into a somewhat passable shape. To these friends, grateful thanks.
The pioneer days were days of beauty and rich emotions. That their
memory should be perpetuated is the author's chief justification for
the writing of this book.
SUSA YOUNG GATES. Salt Lake City, July 24, 1909.