BIOGRAPHY
AND
FAMILY RECORD
OF
LORENZO SNOW,
One of the Twelve Apostles of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day
Saints.
Written and Compiled by his Sister,
Eliza R. Snow Smith.
"I know him, that he will command his children after him, and they
shall keep the word of the Lord, to do justice and judgment."
"If you wish to go where God is, you must be like God--possessing the
principles which God possesses."--Joseph Smith.
Salt Lake City, Utah,
Deseret News Company, Printers.
1884.
Preface.
This Biography and Autobiography of my brother, Lorenzo Snow, has been
written as a tribute of sisterly affection for him; and as a token of
sincere respect to his family.
It is designed to be handed down in lineal descent, from generation to
generation--to be preserved as a family Memorial.
In adapting it to this purpose, both in the matter originated, and in
that compiled, the writer has varied materially from the usual course
of biographers. That it may constitute a historical point to which
my brother's posterity, to the latest generations, who shall honor
the Gospel of the Son of God, may trace their origin in the Church
of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and find a record of their
illustrious ancestor--his wives, children and grandchildren--a full
genealogical record is inserted. That his descendants may profit by his
instructions, selections from his letters and discourses are copied
into this work; we also have inscribed missionary sketches of some of
his sons and sons-in-law. E. R. S. S.
Contents.
CHAPTER I.
Lorenzo Snow's Birth and Parentage.--Parents settled in
Ohio.--Hardships and Privations.--Their Hospitality.--Lorenzo's
early Characteristics.--Fondness for Books.--Military Aims.--Change
in Pursuits.--Starts for Oberlin College.--Falls in Company with
David W. Patten.--Conversation.--In College.--Eliza Embraces the
Gospel.--Moves to Kirtland.--How she obtained a House and Lot.--Lorenzo
in College.--Investigates.--Is disgusted.--Writes to Eliza.--Her
Invitation.--He accepts and comes to Kirtland.--Studies Hebrew.--Is
Baptized.--How he receives the Holy Ghost.
CHAPTER II.
A Blessing Meeting.--Lorenzo's Opinion of the Patriarch.--The
Patriarch's Marvelous Prediction.--Lorenzo is Puzzled.--Explained
to him by Revelation.--Lorenzo in Kirtland.--Fast-day
Meetings.--Outpouring of the Spirit.--Gifts Manifested.--Lorenzo's
First Speech from the Pulpit.--Description of the Temple.--Fast
Meetings.--A Striking Incident.--Effect of the Meetings on Lorenzo's
Mind.--Wants to Preach.--Is Ordained an Elder.
CHAPTER III.
My Brother started on Mission.--Without Purse or Scrip.--Hard
work to Beg.--Affectionate Aunt.--First Meeting in Medina County,
Ohio.--Baptisms.--Preaches in Court House.--Ludicrous Anecdote.--Visits
Relatives.--Preaches to Schoolmates.--Baptizes some of them.
CHAPTER IV.
A change--Great Apostacy.--Disaffection creeps into every
Quorum.--Pride and speculation.--Apostates claim the Temple.--Warren
Parrish a ringleader.--A fearful, terrible scene in the Temple.--The
scene described.--What occurred the next Day.--Very interesting
Court scene.--John Boynton portrayed.--Joseph and Sidney flee for
their lives.--Father Smith served with State's Warrant.--How he
escaped.--Luke Johnson befriends him.--Luke's death.
CHAPTER V.
Leave Kirtland.--Grand Entertainment.--A noble Woman.--Lorenzo drives
one Team.--He is very Sick.--Arrive in Far West, Missouri.--Elder
Rigdon's Kindness.--Dr. Avord's Meanness.--His Nurse, Nightwatcher
and Doctor.--An Incident.--Arrive in Adam-ondi-Ahman.--Lorenzo takes
his Gun and goes out to Hunt.--A new Train of Reflections.--Hunting
for Sport.--The old Settlers.--Their Antagonism.--Preparation for
Defense.--False Alarm explained.
CHAPTER VI.
Wants to go on Mission.--Elder Butterfield wishes to accompany
him.--They go.--Arrive in Far West on the second day.--Father
Smith blesses Lorenzo.--Blindness of Thomas B. Marsh.--Leave Far
West.--Meet a camp of Brethren at the Missouri River.--Construct a
craft.--Started in snow storm down the river.--Perilous times.--Narrow
escapes.--A savage band.--Make their escape.--Find camping place in
peace.--Leave the boat and travel on foot.--Get lodging at the house
of a Mobocrat.--Mobocratic narrative.--A Campbellite Preacher's
Politeness.--Courtesy of a Methodist Preacher.--A crowded house.--A
Donation just in time.--Saved from a Mob by his pocket Bible.--Other
Mobocrats foiled.
CHAPTER VII.
Leaves Kentucky.--Travels on foot five hundred miles.--Reaches his
friends in Ohio.--Through fatigue and exposure, is very sick.--Receives
kind attention.--Traveled and preached.--Taught school.--Great effort,
and great success.--A thrilling narrative.--Arrives in Nauvoo.--The
Father and Family in LaHarpe.
CHAPTER VIII.
In Di-Ahman.--Our father's purchases.--Friendliness of the "old
settlers."--A spirit of hostility prevalent.--Millers would not grind
our wheat.--Grating corn for our bread.--How we cooked the grated
meal.--A strange move; the old settlers abscond.--Their reports in the
surrounding country.--The Military quells the uprising.--A horse mill
in operation.--Mobs arouse with increased force.--Government sends
Militia.--They are set to guard the Saints, who are ordered to leave
the county within ten days.--The halfway house.--Food frozen.--How we
ate supper.--Sleepless and jolly.--Arrive in Far West.--Seven miles
out.--Move to Illinois.--To Warren County.--To LaHarpe.--To Nauvoo.
CHAPTER IX.
Called on mission to England.--Extraordinary communication.--Calls
on families of the Twelve.--In Ohio.--Borrows money.--On board
a sailing vessel.--In Liverpool.--Writes to his aunt.--Why he
is there.--How he came there.--Crossing the ocean.--Terrific
storms.--An ocean storm scene.--The calm.--Gratitude.--Arrives in
Liverpool.--Manchester.--Birmingham.
CHAPTER X.
Writes from Birmingham.--Church numbers Sixteen.--Conference
in London.--Lorenzo appointed to preside over the London
Conference.--Confirmed in Manchester.--Nine of the Twelve
present.--Established a Branch in Wolverhampton.--Ordained
William Henshaw.--Sent him to Wales.--William Henshaw did a
good work, but "died as a fool dieth."--An encounter with Evil
Spirits.--Lorenzo gets the Victory.--An Apostacy succeeds.--April
6th, Conference in Manchester.--Nine of the Twelve present.--Branches
represented.--Officers set apart.--A cake for the Twelve.--The cake
distributed.--A joyful time.--Orson Hyde speaks.--Joseph Fielding
speaks--P. P. Pratt composes verses.--Brigham Young and William Miller
sing.--President B. Young dismisses.--Poem addressed to L. Snow.
CHAPTER XI.
Brother Snow writes to Elder Pratt.--Baptisms.--A hint to the
wise.--Caution and instruction.--Writes to the _Star_.--Increase
in the Church in London.--Good word for Bedford.--Baptisms.--To
Elder Pratt.--Sad news.--Sister Morgan's Death.--Her faithfulness
and benevolence.--Her triumphant departure.--Her Husband is
comforted.--Conference.--Lorenzo informs how subscriptions are
obtained.--Singing in Tongues.--L. appointed First Counselor.--P. P.
Pratt speaks.--Stanza.--Queen Victoria.--Presentation of the Book of
Mormon to Her Majesty and the Prince Consort.
CHAPTER XII.
Brother Snow's Mission terminates.--Reports four hundred Members in
the London Conference.--Is appointed to take charge of two hundred and
fifty Saints _en route_ to Nauvoo.--Embarks on the "Swanton."--The
Steward's sickness.--Grows worse and worse.--Is given up, and nearly
dead.--Sister Martin insists with the Captain.--Is repulsed, and again
asks that Elder Snow may administer to the Steward.--She obtains
consent.--The man is healed.--Baptisms in New Orleans.--The Company
reaches Nauvoo.--Great Reception.--Waving of Handkerchiefs.--The
Prophet present.--Reminiscences.--My joy in meeting Lorenzo.--How we
associated.--Appeal to my Husband.--Their Interview.--The Result.
CHAPTER XIII.
Plural Marriage.--It tries the Prophet.--God commands, and he must
obey.--Interview on the bank of the river.--The Prophet's words.--Gives
Lorenzo a precious promise.--Lorenzo and myself visit our Parents, and
return.--Lorenzo goes to Ohio.--Where he finds me on his return.--Close
of 1843.--A social gathering.--Extract from Lorenzo's speech.--He
organizes a company.--The General's compliment.--Lorenzo's experience
in an unfortunate school.--Makes a success.--Mobbing at Lima.
CHAPTER XIV.
The Prophet instructs the Twelve.--They appoint a Delegation to seek a
location for the Saints.--Lorenzo notified to be in readiness.--Change
intervenes.--An unprecedented apostacy.--Joseph Smith's
correspondence.--Calls for an expression from candidates for the
Presidency.--Copy of Appeal.--Disgusted with their responses.--Offers
himself as candidate.--Elders electioneer.--How Lorenzo
succeeds.--Terrible news.--Assassination.--Mournful Elegy.--Meeting
mobocrats.
CHAPTER XV.
Lorenzo a Bachelor.--The Prophet instructs him.--He changes
tactics.--Marries.--Wives and Endowments.--In the Temple.--Wrath
of our Enemies.--Expulsion of the Saints.--Cross the Mississippi
River.--Intensely cold.--Snow storm.--Outfit.--Camp organized.--Moves
forward.--Song No. 1.--Song No. 2.
CHAPTER XVI.
Garden Grove.--Pisgah.--Severe sickness.--Death of Elder
Huntington.--Lorenzo called to preside.--Condition of the Saints.--A
dilemma.--Lorenzo's policy.--How he succeeded.--A ludicrous and
enjoyable entertainment.--Births.--Death.--Life incidents.--President
Young's call.--Appointments.--Another wife.--Arrives in the
Valley.--Ordained into the Quorum of the Twelve.--Builds a log house.
CHAPTER XVII.
The first celebration.--Lorenzo chairman of committee.--Description
of Escort.--Moves from Bowery to President Young's.--Receives
the Presidency.--Returns to Bowery.--Singing by the
way.--Cheers.--Hymn.--Prayer.--Declaration of Independence
read.--Speech by Silver Greys.--Ode sung by Silver Greys.--Shout of
hosanna.--March to the dinner tables.--A rich feast.--Thousands of the
Saints partake.--Gentiles _en route_ to California, partake.--Scores of
Indians partake.--Grandeur in Simplicity.--Gratitude to God.
CHAPTER XVIII.
The Brethren covenant to help the poor out from Nauvoo.--Lorenzo called
to obtain means.--The poverty and liberality of the Saints.--One
offers his only cow.--Anecdote of Captain Brown.--Called on a mission
to Italy.--Increase of family.--Weight of responsibility.--No
time for preparation.--Company organized.--Letter to his
Sister.--The Journey.--Wonderful manifestations of the hand of
God.--Nauvoo.--Carthage.--Arrival in Liverpool.--Meets the brethren.
CHAPTER XIX.
The Editor's reflections.--The responsibility of Lorenzo's
Mission.--His trust in God.--His knowledge that God had
called him.--Commendable characteristics.--How they are
strengthened.--He writes to F. D. Richards.--Describes
Genoa.--Armed men.--Priests.--Meets an acquaintance.--Curious
interview.--Reflections.--Sympathy for the people.--Door opening for
the Gospel in Piedmont.--Encouraging prospects.
CHAPTER XX.
Writes to President Young.--The Waldenses.--Incidents.--Calls
Elder Stenhouse.--Cathedral of St. Lorenzo.--Sends two Elders
to Piedmont.--Describes the Country.--Published "The Voice of
Joseph."--Miraculous healing.--Sends for Elder Woodard.--Organization
of the Church.--Prayer.--Officers chosen.--Mount Brigham.--Rock of
Prophecy.--Testimony of an Englishman.--Invited by a Priest.--First
Baptism.--Difficulties to meet.--LaTour.--The presence of the Elders
only tolerated.--Can lift up his head and rejoice in spite of
difficulties.
CHAPTER XXI.
Joseph Smith.--His anxiety on the subject of religion.--Secret
vocal prayer.--A brilliant light envelops him.--Two
personages appear.--The Lord speaks to Joseph.--Instructs
him.--He has another vision.--Is shown where records are
deposited.--Obtains and translates them.--Testimonies of the
Witnesses.--Baptisms.--Church organized.--Temple built.--Gifts
manifested.--Saints leave Kirtland.--Scenes in Jackson County.--Extreme
Suffering.--Expulsion.--Memorial to Congress.
CHAPTER XXII.
Why the Saints are persecuted.--Persecutions in different ages of the
World.--How Jethro came to Moses.--The Saints locate in Illinois.--A
short season of peace.--Hostilities resumed.--Perfidy of the Governor
of the State.--Assassination.--The Prophet's testimony that his work
was finished.--The Saints are driven.--Their journey.--War with the
remainder.--Extracts from Epistle.--Peace.--Perpetual Fund.--Labors of
the Elders.--Publications.--The work of twenty years.--The power of
truth.
CHAPTER XXIII.
Explanatory note.--Lorenzo writes to Elder Hyde.--Brightness of natural
scenery.--Spiritual darkness.--A courageous minister.--Inscription
attached to his portrait.--Hymn.--Drudgery.--Expression of
gratitude.--A dream.--First Native ordained to preach.--Ordains Elders
Woodard and Stenhouse to the High Priesthood.--The former to preside in
Italy, the latter in Switzerland.--A Magnificent view.--Reflections.
CHAPTER XXIV.
Note by Editor.--Elder Woodard writes.--More Baptisms in Italy.--A
singular scene.--A successful experiment.--Ten baptized.--Expressions
from converts.--The _Millennial Star_ speaks.--Encouraging
reports.--Letter from Elder Woodard.--Extract from Elder Stenhouse's
letter.--Opposition re-acts.--Good results.
CHAPTER XXV.
Onward.--No bounds to Brother Snow's mission.--He looks towards India
and shapes his plans.--Writes to F. D. Richards.--Expresses his
views.--Brother Woodard writes from Italy.--Brother Stenhouse from
Switzerland.--Lorenzo visits Wales.--Untimely plaudit.--A Bedlamite
night encounter.--Ultimate fate of the hotel and its Landlord.
CHAPTER XXVI.
Address to the Saints.--Responsibility of those holding
the Priesthood.--Eternal prospects.--The best policy in
governing.--Priesthood to be honored.--By benefiting others we
benefit ourselves.--Must pass through suffering.--Must be pure and
humble.--Need patience.--Estimation of F. D. Richards.--His wise
policy.--Progress of the mission.--Expression of gratitude.--The Editor
speaks.--Lorenzo's courage and faithfulness.
CHAPTER XXVII.
Editor's reflections.--Lorenzo writes to President Richards.--Completed
Translation of the Book of Mormon.--Visits Paris.--Pleasure of meeting
Saints.--Condition of the people.--Goes to Geneva.--Degradation
of woman.--Meets Elder Stenhouse.--Interesting meetings.--At
Lausanne--Professor Reta--Benefit of Elder Taylor's French publications.
CHAPTER XXVIII.
Editor's note.--Lorenzo writes.--Leaves Geneva.--Over the hills.--Over
the Alps.--A heavy snow storm.--Only two passengers in the coach.--Ten
horses barely sufficient.--"Houses of Recovery" erected by the
government for lost travelers.--Reaches Turin.--Meets Elders Woodard
and Toronto.--Interesting "re-union."--Visions.--Healings.--Condition
of Italy.--Brother Woodard's course commendable.--The Waldenses.
CHAPTER XXIX.
Editor's Remarks.--Lorenzo writes from Malta.--Naples.--Across
the Mediterranean.--Detention.--Disappointed.--Makes virtue of
necessity.--Samuel succeeds his brother.--Lorenzo explains cause of
detention.--Revised edition of the "Voice of Joseph."--Prospects in
Malta.--Michael and Lucifer represented.--In Gibraltar.--Good news from
India.--Extracts.--Elder Willis writes.--One hundred and eighty-nine
members.--Ordained two Elders.--More Baptisms.
CHAPTER XXX.
Closing the Mission.--Elder Jabez Woodard writes.--Leaves
Malta.--Elder Obray succeeds him.--A vision related.--Commendatory
of Elder Malan.--Extract from Elder Obray's letter.--From Western
Hindostan.--Opposition.--What a soldier dared.--The result.--Military
oppose Missionaries.--A Branch organized in Poonah.--The "Voice
of Joseph," by Elder Lorenzo Snow.--"The Only Way to be Saved"
republished.--A remarkable vision.
CHAPTER XXXI.
Close of Mission.--Bids adieu to the Saints and scenes of his
labors.--Poem, in which martial and ecclesiastical labors and
honors are contrasted.--Lorenzo returns home.--Chosen Member
of Legislature.--President of Council.--Reflections.--Joy and
sorrow.--Vision.--A covenant.--Charlotte's death.--Singular
manifestation.--A little prattler.--Quandary.--Solution.--Social
party.--Storm.--Drenched.--Lorenzo decides to build.--A
struggle.--Proves a success.
CHAPTER XXXII.
Discourse by Elder L. Snow, delivered in the Tabernacle, Salt Lake
City.--Blessings proportioned to faith and diligence.--Plainness of
the Gospel.--Naaman, the Assyrian.--How the Gospel found us.--The
same as that of New Testament.--Power of the Gospel.--Testimony
of the Elders.--What Philanthropists tried to do, the Lord
has done.--Joseph Smith.--His mission.--Obedience brings
knowledge.--Elders honest and brave as the ancients.--Knowledge not
confined to our leaders.--Falsehood refuted.--The dishonest will
apostatize.--Persecution promised.--The honest will receive the
truth.--The Latter-day work will triumph.
CHAPTER XXXIII.
Polysophical Association.--Lorenzo no one-idea man.--Character
of the Association.--Called to write.--Responded.--Speeches
from ten to fifteen minutes.--Time fully occupied.--How
it was accomplished.--Everything high-toned.--The effect
captivating.--Anxiety to become members.--Note by the
Editor.--Nationality.--Where is the place of my nativity?--Where is
my home?--Not in any European country.--Not even in America.--Not
on earth.--Here I am a stranger.--My home, my nationality in
the courts of immortality.--Address to parents.--Our mutual
aim.--Responsibilities.--Necessity of cultivating children.--What they
should be prepared for.--What they are to become.
CHAPTER XXXIV.
How Lorenzo spent the interval.--His next mission.--Difficulties
to be overcome.--Lays out a city.--Description of the
premises.--Builds a house.--President Young visits him.--Introduces a
precedent.--Description of it.--Succeeded by railroads.--Gift of the
Gospel.--The Patriarch's promise.--A sick man.--Faith in Lorenzo's
administration.--A handkerchief is sent.--He blesses and dedicates
it.--Is taken to the patient.--Placed upon him.--He recovers.--A
letter.--In memoriam.--To Elder Porter Squires.--Expressions of
gratitude.--Good wishes and blessings.
CHAPTER XXXV.
Necessity of recreation.--Lorenzo anticipates the need of
the people.--Provides a miniature theatre.--How it was
managed.--Moves to a new building.--A windstorm.--House blown
down.--Everything destroyed.--Discouragement.--President J. Young
speaks prophetically.--His prophecy fulfilled.--The Dramatic
Association organized.--Lorenzo presides over it.--Bishop McQuarrie
speaks.--Relates an incident.--The Social Hall erected.--Its
uses.--Concerning circulating medium.--Checks as good as gold.--Within
reach of all.--Assessment.
CHAPTER XXXVI.
Mission to the Sandwich Islands.--Elders called home.--Walter M.
Gibson.--Goes to the Sandwich Islands.--His perfidy.--Lorenzo,
with other Elders, sent to investigate.--Take Stage.--Arrive at a
mining town.--Incident.--New driver.--Favorable impressions.--Sings
melodiously.--Swears blasphemously.--Drives furiously.--Perilous
predicament.--Other perils.--Arrive at San Francisco.--At Brother
Eveleth's.--Take steamer.--Arrive near the landing at Lahaina.--Boat
upset.--Lorenzo and the Captain drowned.--Both restored to
life.--Rejoicing and thanksgiving.
CHAPTER XXXVII.
Mission to the Sandwich Islands concluded.--Journey to Lanai.--Mr.
Gibson.--Pagan superstitions.--Adopted by Miss Gibson.--Mr. Gibson
reverenced by the natives.--His impudence.--Elder J. F. Smith's
reply.--Elder Snow's prophecy.--Gibson cut off from Church.--Prophecy
fulfilled.--Sermon on the ship.--An earthquake.--Return
home.--Interview with President Young.
CHAPTER XXXVIII.
Lorenzo's gigantic movement.--In accordance with President Young's
suggestion.--A social monument.--To be perpetuated.--Letter to
Bishop Lunt.--Mercantile and Manufacturing Association.--Effort
requisite.--First, Merchandise.--Second, Tannery.--Third,
Woolen Factory.--Fourth, Dairy.--Fifth, a Horn Stock
Herd.--Agricultural Department.--Hat Factory.--Between thirty and
forty industrial branches.--Furnish employment for all.--Form of
checks.--Labor received for capital stock.--Organization of the
Association.--Directors.--Council.
CHAPTER XXXIX.
All was flourishing.--Attaining to independence.--Factory burned.--Sent
a chill to Lorenzo's heart.--Instead of discouragement it was proof
of the strength of their compact.--Everywhere manifest, even in
the Children.--Union could not be broken.--Impregnability of their
Order.--_Deseret News_ speaks.--Commendatory.--Sympathy.--Calamity is
proof of the strength of the Co-operative system.--Determination to
rebuild.
CHAPTER XL.
Dedication day.--Fourth of July.--Gratitude and thanksgiving.--More
than two thousand had suffered loss.--In six months
the Factory is rebuilt.--Great rejoicing.--Dedicatory
prayer.--Address.--Speeches.--Brigham City M. and M. Association.--A
raid.--Railroad contract.--How a village sprang up.--An
onslaught.--Confusion ensues.--The Grand Jury issues indictments.--Men
drove to jail in a herd.--Great excitement.--Superintendent
Dunn speaks.--John Merrill in custody.--Handcuffed.--Chained
in jail.--Telegrams from the United States President.--How the
Judge received them.--More about Merrill.--Left unguarded and
unacquitted.--About the mill.--Dishonesty of Jurors.--Financial loss.
CHAPTER XLI.
To President F. D. Richards.--Burning of the woolen factory.--In
thirty minutes all consumed.--Forebodings that the people would be
discouraged.--Fears unfounded.--What was done within six months.--The
people superior to the loss.--A raid follows the fire.--An unlawful tax
follows the raid.--Statement of losses.--Business curtailed.--Checks
canceled.--Eleven industrial departments in operation.--The mercantile
flourishing.--Confidence preserved.
CHAPTER XLII.
Remarks by the Editor.--Lorenzo writes to George Q. Cannon.--Makes
suggestions concerning the illegal assessment.--Letter two.--What
Lawyer Sutherland says.--Letter three.--A description of Scrip.--How
used.--Affidavits.--Correspondence.--Joseph F. Smith writes.--Lorenzo
responds.
CHAPTER XLIII.
Stake Conference in Brigham City.--President B. Young
expected.--Preparations made.--Flags hoisted.--Conference in
Bowery.--Box Elder Stake re-organized.--Lorenzo calls the officers of
the United Order together.--Nominate officers.--All are accepted.--O.
G. Snow to preside.--President Young's fatherly counsel and blessing.
CHAPTER XLIV.
Oliver G. Snow speaks.--His maiden speech.--Performs a good
deed.--Called to go to assist the emigration.--Encounter with
Indians.--Mission to England.--Visits New York.--Arrives in
Liverpool.--Goes to Manchester.--An incident relative to the death of
Dickens.--Oliver attends a sectarian lecture.--Is challenged.--Attempts
to respond.--Is repulsed.--The priest is disgraced and forsaken.--A
visit to Scotland.--Descriptions.--Return to England.--Incomprehensible
dialect.--Released.--Home again.--Ordained member of High
Council.--Marries.--Mission to the States.--Visits Oberlin.--Ludicrous
incident.--Visits his grandmother.--Preaches her funeral sermon.--At
home appointed President of Box Elder Stake.
CHAPTER XLV.
Discourse by Elder Lorenzo Snow, delivered in the Tabernacle, Salt Lake
City, January 14, 1872.--Progression.--The Fatherhood of God.--The
perfect man.--The gifts of the Spirit.--His testimony.
CHAPTER XLVI.
Lorenzo's birthday.--A surprise.--His escort.--Enthusiastically
greeted.--Address.--He responds.--Singing "Grandfather's Clock."--A
hair picture presented.--Recitation by the children.--Autograph album
presented.--Tables loaded with luxuries.--Dinner.--Singing.--Lorenzo
makes a speech.--Parting Hymn.--Dismissal.
CHAPTER XLVII.
George F. Gibbs.--His parents receive the Gospel.--His early
youth.--Employed in a printing establishment.--How he stood with his
associates.--Had to fight his way to maintain his integrity.--Honored
the Word of Wisdom.--Drew a prize.--Was highly honored.--Chosen
for out-door preaching.--Compliments his mother.--Leaves home for
Liverpool.--Clerk and book-keeper in Liverpool Office.--Emigrates
to America.--In President B. Young's Office.--Goes to Liverpool
Office.--Works there three years.--Home again.--Anecdote.--Masters
Phonography.--Has been and now is Church Reporter.
CHAPTER XLVIII.
M. D. Rosenbaum leaves his native country.--In San
Francisco.--Goes to Carson.--A voice speaks to him.--Goes to
Salt Lake.--At Elder Neibaur's.--Baptized.--Called on mission to
Germany.--In Berlin.--Attends meeting.--Is arrested.--Tried and
sentenced.--Banished.--Returns home.--F. H. Snow appointed to a
mission.--Reflections.--Strangers marvel.--What an affrighted Catholic
said.--The captain of the steamer replies.--An incident.--Tired and
hungry.--Why he goes to bed supperless.--A retort.--What a priest
did.--The Channel Islands.--Released and returns home.--Expression of
gratitude.
CHAPTER XLIX.
Discourse by Elder Lorenzo Snow, delivered in a meeting of the St.
George Stake of Zion, in the Temple, April 5th, 1877; reported by
George F. Gibbs.--Necessity for effort.--What the Lord said to
Oliver Cowdery.--Regulation of temporal affairs.--Consecration and
stewardship.--Preparation for building in Jackson County.--The United
Order.--Plural marriage.--Responsibility of Presidents.--How confidence
is created.--The necessity of its cultivation.--Desires for the future.
CHAPTER L.
Elijah Box says his parents embraced the Gospel in England.--Came to
Nauvoo.--Elijah born in a turbulent time.--Moves to St. Louis.--To
the Bluffs.--To the Valley.--Storm described.--Moves to Brigham
City.--Struggle for an education.--How it is obtained.--Called on
mission.--A great contrast in Liverpool.--Visits relatives.--In London
meets with the Palestine tourists.--How poor Saints manage their Sunday
clothing.--An incident.--Closes mission.--In charge of a company of
Saints, leaves England.--Reflections.--Reaches home.--Engaged in
teaching.--Presides over Improvement Associations.--Counselor to Stake
President.
CHAPTER LI.
George Dunford.--When in his teens wants to earn living.--Decides
on going to sea.--Leaves home without a shilling.--Applies to the
Admiral of the British Navy.--Sent to Rio Janeiro.--Officiates as
steward for the officers.--The brig Curlew ordered to England.--How
he saved his means.--Returns home with plenty of money.--Meets
with an Elder.--Convinced of the truth of the Gospel, and is
baptized.--Ordained Elder, presides over two branches.--Emigrates
to America.--Presides over the St. Louis branch.--In mercantile
business.--Goes to California, St. Louis, and settles in Salt
Lake City.--Appointed Bishop of Malad Valley, including six
settlements.--After nearly three years, is released.--Expression of
fatherly feeling.
CHAPTER LII.
From the _Deseret News._--A re-union.--A
dinner.--Speeches.--Songs.--Expressions of love and union.--Judge
Burt reads a lengthy presentation address.--The editor comments.--The
address.--Presents gold watch and chain to Lorenzo.--A testimonial of
love, respect and confidence.
CHAPTER LIII.
Chester Loveland a modern Ajax.--Drives the Sheriff and his
posse.--Holds a mobocratic jury.--Brings them to terms.--Captain
in "Nauvoo Legion."--Comes to Utah.--Goes to Carson.--A scene of
suffering.--Commissioned Probate Judge.--Is left to preside.--Mission
to the States.--John A. McAllister called on mission to
Europe.--Interesting time on the steamer.--Why the "Mormons"
were driven from Nauvoo.--Is sent to the Orkney Islands.--Stops
at his uncle's in Glasgow.--Missionary labors.--In Dundee and
Newcastle-on-Tyne.--Visits London.--Returns home.--Is elected County
Recorder.
CHAPTER LIV.
Discourse by Apostle Lorenzo Snow at the General Conference, Salt
Lake City, April 7, 1882, Reported by George F. Gibbs.--Reference
to Moses and ancient Israel.--Distrusting results the effect of
ignorance.--Latter-day Saints have more faith.--No such thing as
standing still.--Move on, trusting in God, the watchword.--Persecutions
of the Latter-day Saints.--Move on and work on.--If we do our
part, God will do His.--How the Lord overruled in our coming to
the mountains.--Plural marriage.--Good resulting from the Edmunds
bill.--The great worth of the Gospel.--Move on, move on.
CHAPTER LV.
Eli H. Peirce.--Called on a mission.--Thoughtless of religion.--Taken
by surprise.--Throws aside pipe and novel.--What his associates
said.--What Moses Thatcher did.--Eli starts forthwith.--In New
York.--To the coal regions, Pennsylvania.--Great success.--A
testimonial.--Baptizes and administers to sick.--The power of God
attends.--Organizes branches.--Heavenly messenger appears.--Release.--A
second mission.--On the frontier.--Baptized a Sioux.--From _Deseret
News_.--A third mission.--With B. Morris Young.--Meets with
success.--Opposition.--Close of mission.--Happy expression.
CHAPTER LVI.
Alphonso Snow.--Letter from President Taylor.--Called on mission.--In
Tennessee.--Strange dialect.--Travels and preaches.--Organizes
a Branch.--Opposition.--Ordered to leave.--A dastardly
letter.--Opposition promotes good.--Professors of religion the
persecutors.--What a Deacon said.--Presides over a Conference.--In
Georgia.--Alphonso released.--Visits relatives.
CHAPTER LVII.
Introductory.--Letter from Lorenzo's son-in-law on the
Sandwich Islands.--The weather.--Cane crop.--Five hundred and
forty-nine baptisms.--King David Kalakauna is coming to visit
the Saints.--Great preparations for his reception.--Houses
decorated.--Inscriptions.--Breakfast is waiting.--The steamer
comes.--The King is escorted between two files of men, women and
children.--Cheers.--Introductions.--Breakfast, then to the meeting
house.--Reception.--Singing choirs.--Dedication prayer by President
Partridge.--The King speaks approvingly of the Saints.--Meeting
adjourned.--A "big feast" prepared by the natives.--What composed
of.--How the King was seated.--How he ate.--How they all, numbering
one thousand, ate.--The King escorted to the steamer.--A national
custom.--Splendid conference.--Number of the Saints.
CHAPTER LVIII.
Expression of appreciation creditable.--Lorenzo speaks of his
wives.--Their nobility.--How he made choice of them.--His
earthly prospects.--How they accepted the position.--The Editor
explains.--They prove superior to circumstances of trial and
hardships.--Are comfortably situated.--Step forth as mothers in
Israel.--Their positions.--Questions to the defamers of Latter-day
Saint women.--Lorenzo's independence of character.--Where credit is
due.--Wife-missions.--Success attributed to God.--Testimonials of love
and respect.
CHAPTER LIX.
Start for Fort Hall Agency.--Meeting in Portage.--In Malad.--Reach
the Reservation.--Meet Indians.--Pitched tent.--With two Bishops
Lorenzo visits the agent.--Describes Mr. Cook.--Lorenzo asks the
privilege of preaching to the Indians.--Prevarication.--An incident.--A
discussion.--Mr. Cook says nothing so much needed as a farmer.--Brother
Snow proposes to furnish one.--Mr. Cook will not accept.--Grows uneasy
and will not have preaching.--A grave responsibility.--Mr. Cook
shoulders it.--The school teacher enters and "brothers" Mr. Cook.--The
brethren start for camp.--Meet Indians.--Visit school.--Little Chief,
wife and daughter.
CHAPTER LX.
In Bannock Valley.--Happy meeting with Indians.--What Lorenzo said to
them.--Lamanite Elders speak.--All shake hands.--Lorenzo describes
the Agency.--What the Secretary of the Interior says.--A comparison
between the two colonies.--The one at Washakie.--How located.--Sunday
School.--Meeting exercises.--How Lamanites are taught.--How
presided over.--Their Co-operative Store and Sheep Herd.--White
families.--A re-action.--An Adage.--The United States Supreme Court
decides.--Telegrams to Hon. L. Snow.
CHAPTER LXI.
Circular to the heads of families.--Names of Committees.--Exercises
for Wednesday, a. m.--Wednesday, p. m.--Thursday, p. m.--Friday, p.
m.--Prompt attendance.--Letter from H. A. Hendrickson.--Extracts from
eastern communications.--Weather propitious.--Children amused.--The
hall.--How occupied.--Invited guests.--Table scenes.--Bachelor
group.--The Re-union indescribable.--Article from _Deseret News_, by C.
W. Penrose.
CHAPTER LXII.
Our father's birthday.--Prose address by F. H. Snow.--Poem by M. D.
Rosenbaum.--Prose address by G. F. Gibbs.--Poem by O. W. Snow.--Prose
address by A. H. Snow.--Poem by E. R. S. Smith.--Closing address by
Lorenzo Snow.
CHAPTER LXIII.
Births and deaths of our parents.--Their children.--Genealogies
of Lorenzo's wives, children, grandchildren, sons-in-law and
daughters-in-law.--Mary Adaline's children by her first husband.
LETTER I.
National Monument.--Its construction.--One hundred and eighty
marble statues.--Lofty spire set with thousands of gems.--Embossed
globe.--Statue of Prince Albert.--Tower of London.--Queen Elizabeth's
Armory.--Torture rooms.--Ann Boleyn.--Earl of Essex.--Lady Jane
Grey.--Executioner's axe.--Instruments of torture.
LETTER II.
At Haarlem.--Two thousand people executed.--Wonderful organ.--A Dutch
wedding.--Amsterdam.--A city on piles.--Formidable army of worms.--One
hundred islands and two hundred and eighty bridges.--Palace on
piles.--Diamond cutting.--Charitable institutions.--Antwerp.--Notre
Dame.--Masterpiece of Rubens.--Royal Palace.--Brussels.--St.
Nicholas.--Singular marriage.--Royal Theatre.--National Palace.
LETTER III.
Paris.--Visit to Versailles.--Bois de Boulogne.--St. Cloud.--Attend the
National Assembly.--French glory.--Interview with the President of the
French Republic.--Paris _Register_ speaks of the Party.
LETTER IV.
From Paris to Lyons.--Burgundy and its wines.--Famous towns.--Lyons
and its silk industries.--Weaving portraits.--Ampitheatre
eighteen hundred years old.--Olive plantations and vineyards.--At
Venice.--Genoa.--Statue of Columbus.--The cathedral of St.
Lorenzo.--Chain that bound John the Baptist.--Turin.--Milan.--Cathedral
of our blessed Lady, the grandest religious edifice in the
world.--Attend high mass.--Arrive in Venice, the City of Waters.
LETTER V.
Rome and its population.--The seven hills.--Excavations by
the Government.--The Forum.--Antony and Julius Caesar.--Where
Virginius stabbed his daughter.--Famous obelisks.--Temple of
Venus.--The Tarpeian Rock.--St. Peter's.--Call on the American
minister.--The Vatican.--Michael Angelo.--Paul III.--Appian
Way.--Seneca.--Baths.--Footprints of the Savior.--Naples.--Mount
Vesuvius.
LETTER VI.
Naples.--Beggars.--Pompeii.--Earthquakes.--Herculanaeum.--Museum.--"Secret
Cabinet."--Ascent of Vesuvius.--Pliny the Elder.--From Naples to
Brindisi.--Hardworking women.--Corfu.--Religious service in a
Greek cathedral.--Take steamer for Alexandria.--Egypt.--Turkish
mosques.--Copts.--Mohammedan schools.--Male and Female attire.--Dervish
worship.--Suez.--Red Sea.
LETTER VII.
Jaffa.--Traveling arrangement.--Place where the Ark was
built.--House of Simon the Tanner.--Mohammedan funeral
ceremony.--Plains of Sharon.--A night in the desert.--Battlefield
of David and Goliath.--Rose of Sharon.--Mount Zion.--Mount of
Olives.--Jerusalem.--Rachel's Tomb.--Solomon's Pools.--Church of
the Nativity.--Studio of St. Jerome.--Shepherds' field.--Jordan
River.--Dead Sea.
LETTER VIII.
Jordan River.--Sacred localities.--Fountain of Elisha.--Brook
Cherith.--Plains of Jericho.--Bethany.--Residence of Mary and
Martha.--Tomb of Lazarus.--Garden of Gethsemane.--Hill of evil
counsel.--Mizpah.--Valley of Jehoshaphat.--Absalom's Pillar.--Mosque of
Omar.--Solomon's Temple.--Mount Moriah.--Worship of Moloch.--Place of
Lamentation.
LETTER IX.
At Athens.--Plains of Attica.--Hill of Mars.--Galilee.--Scriptural
reminiscences.--Fountain of Dan.--Cesarea Philippi.--Damascus.--An
unfortunate Architect.
LETTER X.
Famous Scripture locality.--Village of robbers.--Battlefield
of Palestine.--Mounts Tabor and Hermon.--Nazareth.--The Holy
Grotto.--Table of Christ.--Arab plows.--Cana of Galilee.--Arab
school.--Sea of Galilee.--Tiberias.--Bedouin spinsters.--Residence of
Mary Magdalene.--Serenaded by Bedouins.--Backsheesh.
LETTER XI.
The Stone of Unction.--The Holy Sepulchre.--The Chapel of the
Angel.--Hill of Calvary.--The hole in which the Cross was
planted.--House of Pilate.--"Behold the Man!"--The true Cross.--A
terrible Massacre.--Turkish Guards.--Christianity despised by
Jews and Mohammedans.--Farewell to Jerusalem.--Gala day.--Arab
Agriculture.--Shechem.--Ferocious People.--The Olive.--Samaria.
LETTER XII.
Beyrout.--Protestant college and schools.--Embark for
Constantinople.--Island of Cyprus.--Mount Olympus.--Sea of
Marmora.--Arrival at the Turkish Metropolis.--Greek Independence
Day.--At Athens.--Classical ruins.--Peculiar Greek customs.--Funeral
ceremony.
LETTER XIII.
Munich.--Visit to a Royal Palace.--Statue of Bavaria.--Imperial
Wedding.--Vienna.--The Arsenal.--Summer Palace.--The Great
Exhibition.--Berlin.--Royal Palace.--Banquet Hall.--Monuments.--U.
S. Minister.--Parliament.--Soldiers.--Moral condition of
Berlin.--Hamburg.--In London.
LETTER XIV.
At St. Louis.--Fine scenery.--Visit relatives.--Poem.--Obtain
genealogies.--Acknowledgment.
LETTER XV.
Home again.--Reception by friends.
Chapter I.
Lorenzo Snow's Birth and Parentage--Parents settled in
Ohio.--Hardships and Privations.--Their Hospitality.--Lorenzo's
early Characteristics.--Fondness for Books.--Military Aims.--Change
in Pursuits.--Starts for Oberlin College.--Falls in Company with
David W. Patten.--Conversation.--In College.--Eliza Embraces the
Gospel.--Moves to Kirtland.--How she obtained a House and Lot.--Lorenzo
in College.--Investigates.--Is disgusted.--Writes to Eliza.--Her
Invitation.--He accepts and comes to Kirtland.--Studies Hebrew.--Is
Baptized.--How he receives the Holy Ghost.
Lorenzo Snow, son of Oliver and Rosetta L. Pettibone Snow, was born
April 3, 1814, in Mantua, Portage County, Ohio. Our father was a native
of Massachusetts, our mother of Connecticut, and were descendants of
the genuine Puritan stock--those who fled from religious persecution in
the "old world," and landed on Plymouth Rock, of historic celebrity.
Early in the settlement of that portion of country now known as the
Middle States, our parents, with their family, consisting of two
daughters, Leonora Abigail, and Eliza Roxcy, (the writer of this
history,) left the home of their youth, and moved to what was at that
period considered the extreme West, or, as it was sometimes styled,
"the jumping off place," and settled in Mantua, Portage County, Ohio,
making the eleventh family in the township. There two daughters and
three sons were added to the family, to wit: Amanda Percy, Melissa,
Lorenzo, Lucius Augustus, and Samuel Pearce.
Many times, and with intense interest, have their children listened to
recitals of the hardships our parents encountered, and the privations
they endured in that new and heavily timbered country, so very
forbidding when compared with the beautiful prairie landscapes of the
West. But as true and worthy representatives of our noble ancestors,
our parents were proof against discouragement, surmounted every
difficulty, and through the blessing of God on their efforts, created
for themselves and their children an enviable home.
In their religious faith our parents were by profession Baptists, but
not of the rigid, iron-bedstead order; their house was a resort for
the good and intelligent of all denominations, and their hospitality
was proverbial. Thus, as their children grew up they had ample
opportunities for forming acquaintances with the erudite of all
religious persuasions.
Without the least shadow of vanity we can truly say of our parents,
their integrity was unimpeachable, and they were trustworthy in all
the social relations and business transactions of life; and carefully
trained their children to habits of industry, economy, and strict
morality, and extended to them the best facilities for scholastic
education the country at that time afforded.
Although a farmer by occupation, father was much abroad on public
business, and Lorenzo, being the eldest of the three brothers, was left
in charge, and early in life became accustomed to responsibilities,
which he discharged with scrupulous punctuality and that inflexibility
of purpose which ensures success; and from early childhood exhibited
the energy and decision of character which have marked his progress
in subsequent life. An unseen hand evidently was guiding him, for in
his boyhood he was energetically, yet unconsciously, preparing for the
position in life he was destined to occupy. Ever a student, at home
as well as in school, (most of his schooling after his twelfth year
was during the winter terms,) his book was his constant companion when
disengaged from filial duties; and when sought by his associates, "_hid
up with his book_" became proverbial. With the exception of one term in
a High School in Ravenna, Ohio, also a special term of tuition under
a Hebrew professor, he completed his scholastic training in Oberlin
College, which at that time was exclusively a Presbyterian institution.
Through the solicitation of an intimate friend, connected with the
college, he was induced to enter, and through whose influence, as a
special favor, he was admitted.
Although religiously trained from infancy, up to this time my brother
had devoted little or no attention to the subject of religion, at least
not sufficiently to decide in preference of any particular sect.
In the progress of his development, his ambition strongly led in the
direction of military distinction, so much so, that, watching with
a sisterly, jealous eye, the steps one by one, by which he gained
promotion in the military road to honor, I feared lest in the course of
human events his path might lead to the battle field, and his earthly
career prematurely close on a gory bed. I frequently plead, entreated,
and at times exhausted my stock of persuasion, but without effect.
At length he must have a first class military suit, and no one could
make it so precisely to his liking as his sister; she had made his
"freedom suit" (at the time referred to he had passed his twenty-first
year), which every one admired--it fitted him exactly, and now this
most important of all mortal habiliments should be entrusted to no
other. I made the suit--it was beautiful, magnificent, and my brother
donned it with as much, if not of military pride, of self-satisfaction
as ever Napoleon won a battle, but it proved of short duration, for he
soon felt that his ambition could not be satisfied without a collegiate
education. Determined on this, he laid his military ambition on the
altar, disposed of his paternal inheritance, and started for Oberlin.
His classical purpose was very satisfactory to my views--forming a
permanent quietus to my imaginary forebodings.
On his way to Oberlin, my brother accidentally fell in company with
David W. Patten, an incident to which he frequently refers as one
of those seemingly trivial occurrences in human life which leave an
indelible trace. This gentleman was an early champion of the fulness
of the Gospel as taught by Jesus and His Apostles in the meridian of
time, and revealed in our own day through the Prophet Joseph Smith; to
which cause Elder Patten fell a martyr on the 24th of October, 1838,
in Missouri, during the terrible scenes of persecution through which
the Latter-day Saints passed in that State. He possessed a mind of deep
thought and rich intelligence. In conversation with him, my brother
was much impressed with the depth and beauty of the philosophical
reasoning with which this inspired Elder seemed perfectly familiar, as
he descanted on the condition of the human family in connection with
the sayings of the ancient Prophets, as recorded in the Scriptures--the
dealings with, and the purposes of God in relation to His children on
the earth. From that time a new field, with a new train of reflections,
was open to my brother's mind, the impress of which has never been
erased.
We will now leave the subject of these sketches, in Oberlin, clubbed
with three or four of his classmates, alternately cooking their meals
and pursuing their studies with combined energies, while we digress in
order to form a connecting link in our narrative.
Having been thoroughly convinced of the authenticity of the Gospel in
its purity as revealed through Joseph Smith, I was baptized on the
fifth of April, 1835, and in the autumn of the same year, left my
father's house and united my interest with the Latter-day Saints in
Kirtland, Ohio.
Soon after my arrival, I sent for the "Building Committee of the
Kirtland Temple," and, on my asking them if they would like a little
money, they replied that they had a payment to make soon, and did not
know where the means was coming from. I do not recollect how much I
gave them; however, it was sufficient to cover the present liability
of the committee, who felt greatly relieved, and proposed to send me
their note of hand for the amount. I told them that I did not want a
note--they were welcome to the money: however, they sent the note, and
some time after wished me to accept a house and lot--thus redeeming
their note. The lot was a very valuable one--situated near the Temple,
with fruit trees--an excellent spring of water, and a house that
accommodated two families. It was truly an enviable situation, and,
although I was teaching the Prophet's family school, and had my home
with them, my eldest sister, a widow with two children, wanted a home
in Kirtland, and I rented one part of the house while she occupied
the other. In all this, the hand of God was too plainly visible to be
mistaken, as will be manifest in the following events.
Now to our narrative: So intimately was my brother associated while
in college, with professors and students, that he became thoroughly
acquainted with the profession and the practice of the denomination
by which that popular institution was controlled; and, although he
cherished very friendly regards for the people, he was unfavorably
impressed with their system of religion. A short time before leaving
Oberlin, he wrote, asking me many questions concerning revealed
religion, at the same time saying, "_If there is nothing better than is
to be found here in Oberlin College, good bye to all religions_."
I answered his questions, and knowing he intended crowning his studies
with a thorough knowledge of Hebrew, invited him to come to Kirtland
at the close of his term in Oberlin, as a school was soon to commence
there, under the tuition of an able Hebrew professor, for the sole
study of that language. Accordingly he came, but not with the most
distant idea of embracing the faith of the Latter-day Saints, of which
were most of the Hebrew students, with whom, including Apostles and the
Prophet Joseph, he became familiarly associated; and while he studied
the dead language of the ancient Hebrews, his mind also drank in,
and his heart became imbued with the living faith of the everlasting
Gospel--"the faith once delivered to the" ancient "saints," and not
many weeks passed after his arrival, before he was baptized into the
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
What a marvelous change crossed the path of the young aspirant! This
one act of stepping into the waters of baptism, with its accompanying
ordinance of the laying on of hands for the reception of the Holy
Ghost, by authorized administrators, opened up a new world before him.
He now sees with a changed and vastly enlarged vision--having been
invested with an additional, a sixth sense, a sense which comprehends
the things of God--which penetrates into futurity and estimates eternal
values.
How wonderfully changed all his youthful aims! How suddenly they
sink into insignificance! How extended the sphere of his youthful
anticipations! How glorious--how exalted the motive power, the
incentive that now prompts his youthful ambition! Instead of earthly
military renown, he now enters the arena for championship with the
armies of heaven--the achievements of the Gods, crowned with the
laurels of eternity, everlasting glory, honor and eternal lives. Not
to be armed with carnal weapons, and to be decked with glittering
badges and costly equipage, to march forth in the pomp and pride of
battle array, for the shedding of human blood: but to go "forth without
purse or scrip," clothed in the power of the Gospel of the Son of God,
wielding the sword of the Spirit of the Almighty, he now takes the
field to battle with the powers of darkness, priestcraft, superstition,
and wickedness, until the kingdoms of this world shall become the
kingdom of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
In my brother's journal I find the following incidents recorded by
himself:
I was baptized by Elder John Boynton, then one of the Twelve Apostles,
June, 1836, in Kirtland, Ohio. Previous to accepting the ordinance
of baptism, in my investigations of the principles taught by the
Latter-day Saints, which I proved, by comparison, to be the same as
those mentioned in the New Testament taught by Christ and His Apostles,
I was thoroughly convinced that obedience to those principles would
impart miraculous powers, manifestations and revelations. With sanguine
expectation of this result, I received baptism and the ordinance of
laying on of hands by one who professed to have divine authority; and,
having thus yielded obedience to these ordinances, I was in constant
expectation of the fulfilment of the promise of the reception of the
Holy Ghost.
The manifestation did not immediately follow my baptism, as I had
expected, but, although the time was deferred, when I did receive it,
its realization was more perfect, tangible and miraculous than even my
strongest hopes had led me to anticipate.
Some two or three weeks after I was baptized, one day while engaged in
my studies, I began to reflect upon the fact that I had not obtained
a _knowledge_ of the truth of the work--that I had not realized the
fulfillment of the promise "he that doeth my will shall know of the
doctrine," and I began to feel very uneasy. I laid aside my books, left
the house, and wandered around through the fields under the oppressive
influence of a gloomy, disconsolate spirit, while an indescribable
cloud of darkness seemed to envelop me. I had been accustomed, at the
close of the day, to retire for secret prayer, to a grove a short
distance from my lodgings, but at this time I felt no inclination to do
so. The spirit of prayer had departed and the heavens seemed like brass
over my head. At length, realizing that the usual time had come for
secret prayer, I concluded I would not forego my evening service, and,
as a matter of formality, knelt as I was in the habit of doing, and in
my accustomed retired place, but not feeling as I was wont to feel.
I had no sooner opened my lips in an effort to pray, than I heard a
sound, just above my head, like the rustling of silken robes, and
immediately the Spirit of God descended upon me, completely enveloping
my whole person, filling me, from the crown of my head to the soles
of my feet, and O, the joy and happiness I felt! No language can
describe the almost instantaneous transition from a dense cloud of
mental and spiritual darkness into a refulgence of light and knowledge,
as it was at that time imparted to my understanding. I then received
a perfect knowledge that God lives, that Jesus Christ is the Son of
God, and of the restoration of the holy Priesthood, and the fulness
of the Gospel. It was a complete baptism--a tangible immersion in the
heavenly principle or element, the Holy Ghost; and even more real and
physical in its effects upon every part of my system than the immersion
by water; dispelling forever, so long as reason and memory last, all
possibility of doubt or fear in relation to the fact handed down to us
historically, that the "Babe of Bethlehem" is truly the Son of God;
also the fact that He is now being revealed to the children of men,
and communicating knowledge, the same as in the Apostolic times. I was
perfectly satisfied, as well I might be, for my expectations were more
than realized, I think I may safely say in an infinite degree.
I cannot tell how long I remained in the full flow of the blissful
enjoyment and divine enlightenment, but it was several minutes before
the celestial element which filled and surrounded me began gradually to
withdraw. On arising from my kneeling posture, with my heart swelling
with gratitude to God, beyond the power of expression, I felt--I
_knew_ that He had conferred on me what only an omnipotent being
can confer--that which is of greater value than all the wealth and
honors worlds can bestow. That night, as I retired to rest, the same
wonderful manifestations were repeated, and continued to be for several
successive nights. The sweet remembrance of those glorious experiences,
from that time to the present, bring them fresh before me, imparting an
inspiring influence which pervades my whole being, and I trust will to
the close of my earthly existence.