Benjamin Johnson is sixteen years old and learning the saddle making trade living with a man in Kirtland who owns a saddle shop. However, business is not good and since everyone is very poor, Ben may be looking for another place. He stops by the house for breakfast where the family welcomes him warmly making room for him at the table. Father Johnson is conspicuously absent choosing to sleep and work late in the carpentry shop in nearby Mentor where he rents a bench and has a room at the local tavern where anti-Mormonism is high.
Seth is 29 now and he walks with Ben outside to the wagon to admire the fine horse collar that Ben only helped to make and needs to deliver to the customer. He is discouraged his apprenticeship could end any day. It is also hardest on him with his parents' separation. Seth counsels him not to give up hope. Seth is also taking a new job teaching school in another town. He has also been warned by the Willoughby school board not to preach any Mormonism in his class or risk being fired. Seth is agreeable to these terms but already added his own warning to the school board that he will not hesitate to share his religion outside schoolroom hours with anyone who asks.
November 3, 1834
Today is Julianne and Almon's wedding day! Juli is 26 (but looks 18 with her short stature and upturned nose) and looking lovely with her shining brown eyes and hair as Almera (age 22) twists part of her brunette ringlets up to be held in place with a fine gold comb-a gift from Almon for their wedding day. Juli was a little concerned at the cost of the comb but Almon has secured them a small log cabin and provisions for the winter and will soon be earning money as a lawyer, now that he has finished his studies. The bride also wears a woolen navy dress, embroidered with pretty designs by Susan and white lace at the collar. Nancy enters the bedroom where Mother Johnson and the sisters are helping Juli get ready. The miracle of Nancy being able to walk again is mentioned in narration (see the end of the last book). Downstairs, green-eyed Almon (now 21 after three years of courting Juli) eagerly awaits his bride along with Juli's brothers and Father Johnson to escort them to the courthouse where they will be married.
Chapter 2
A few lines by Joel
Late November 1834
Narration tells us (as Ezekiel Johnson observes Philastus Hurlbut entering the shop to inquire if Ezekiel can repair a broken table) Philastus Hulbert's luck has not been good since he was excommunicated in the last book and subsequently lost everything in attempt to publish a book to bring down Joseph Smith. He got married (Ezekiel pities the poor woman) and is living in another town as he is not welcome in either Kirtland or Mentor.
Lyman Sherman comes home where his wife has a good supper set on the table but...they also have a visitor-Cousin Philastus and his timid new wife. At Ezekiel's suggestion, Philastus brought her here, to his cousin's house, to quell her fears that the Mormons are going to murder them in their beds one night thanks to her husband's poor choices. As this is clearly not the case, Philastus says goodbye and they do not stay for supper. Philastus will take his wife somewhere far away where they can build a new life together. It's for the best.
Ben is working alone in the saddle shop one evening when Brother Joseph enters for help with a broken stirrup which Ben is happy to repair at no cost. Joseph has heard Seth is preaching on Sundays in his schoolhouse and is glad for it helps build the kingdom of God in that area and lower animosity towards the church. Ben is also glad. He tells the Prophet he will pass this message along to his older brother who regrets he can't help work on the temple. Ben has plans to see his brother this Sunday.
Sam Prescott, Father Johnson's fellow carpenter at the shop, has been eyeing the lovely Almera since he was first introduced to her when she came to see her Papa at work (see the last book). Ezekiel is impressed with this man: he is tall, strong, hardworking, blue eyed with dark blonde hair. Sam would make a fine catch for his daughter. But Almera won't marry anyone who isn't a member of the church and Sam has made it clear he has no desire to join. Ezekiel brings up the subject at the dinner table where Julia and the rest of the family observe this exchange. Almera repeats her desire to not marry outside the faith-she would not make the same mistakes as her parents. Ezekiel frowns, reminding his daughter he could force her to marry the man if he wished. Nevertheless, he will respect her wishes.
January 1835
It is Sunday and Julia will ride with Ben and Joe to visit Seth in Willoughby where Susan and Esther are staying with him to cook and keep house. Seth has not been fully recovered since returning from Zion's Camp where he was also a victim of the cholera outbreak. His face is red and feverish but he preaches and bears a strong testimony of the restored gospel to the large group of investigators in the schoolroom. After the meeting, three people are baptized. Light snow is falling as Seth performs the ordinances just outside in a nearby creek and Julia is waiting with a warm quilt to wrap around her tall, rail thin son who is more concerned the family not worry about his dragging illness (but even the reader can sense the foreshadowing).
Seth is not the only one suffering from winter illnesses, many students are out. Esther will return with her mother and Susan will substitute for Seth in the schoolroom. She is strong and Julia (and the reader) loves her for it. Since the wedding, Susan has tried very hard not to mind that Almon ended up with Julianne. She declares to her mother that perhaps she was sent to the family for this very reason-to help their beloved older brother and be the one to hold the family together during this time of trial.
To Ben's consternation Joe and Esther strike up a "Non-Sabbath" song called "Sarasponda" (you can find it on YouTube a very old American children's folksong probably of Dutch origin with nonsense lyrics "Sara-spon-da...ret-set-set" meant to mimic the sound of a spinning wheel) they humor him and start singing something else as Joe drives the wagon home. Ben is grumpy for good reason: his favorite older brother is not well and may die, their father won't allow any of the younger children, including him, to be baptized and he is depressed and frustrated about life. Julia is also worried for if their son Seth is taken from them, it will be a very heavy blow to the family and may only drive her husband Ezekiel further away.
Chapter 3
a few lines by Joel about trials and heaven sending blessings to help ease the suffering
February 1835
Susan serves Seth oatmeal sweetened with honey for breakfast but her brother is weak and frail. He returns to bed, despite being fully dressed, for a nap before they journey home. It is bitter cold outside. Susan cleans the dishes, then sweeps and cleans the hearthstone of the fireplace where she cooked the oatmeal. The wagon outside is mostly packed.
A knock at the door reveals none other than the prophet himself (According to *chapter notes* this is not true but the authors decided to take some fictional license here) who desires to talk to Seth about a vision, a dream he had the night before in which he saw the heavenly mansions awaiting those who died as a result of Zion's Camp march. He weeps at the revelation for if he were to be worthy to receive such a blessing, he tells Seth, it would be enough! (These words and tears shed while relaying them are accurate but given at a meeting back in Kirtland specifically for those who participated in the march so most likely Almon and Lyman were there.)
Knowing he is dying, Seth turns down Brother Joseph's offer that if he has faith to be healed he would live but Seth is tired and just wants to move on. Joseph respects that.
One week later, Seth is home but has been bedridden since he arrived. Sensing the end is near, the family is gathering around his bed to say goodbye and Ben is devastated-torn between anger and fear. Mother Johnson and her daughters have all been cheerfully taking their turns tending to Seth: reading, singing to him, doing all they can to make him comfortable while Father Johnson has been avoiding the entire issue by staying in Mentor, drinking at the tavern every night and not coming home. Ben envies his father. Wielding the ax, he goes with Almera to the creek to fetch water where something snaps inside him. He hacks violently at the ice as if possessed while Almera sobs begging him to stop until he finally collapses next to her. Brother and sister cry on each other's shoulders. Seth's impending death is ripping the entire family apart. What did they do to incur God's wrath on their family?
At the next Sabbath meeting, the prophet announces there will be quorums of Seventy called, just like in the Bible, to help build the kingdom. Almon is also depressed by Seth's worsening condition. If anyone deserves to be called to the Seventy, it would be Seth. Looking around at the family-his own wife is pregnant with their first child-Almon resolves to be the best he can be. As the next oldest men in the family, Joseph and Benjamin Johnson need the support and example of their older in-laws (Almon and Lyman). The family is counting on him!
Seth calls each member of the family to his deathbed so (like Father Lehi) he can speak to each of his siblings one-on-one and give them blessings and counsel. It is Joe's turn. Seth admonishes him to use his gifts and talents to bless others. That is all the Lord requires of him. Joe thinks of how much he loves and admires his American Indian friends, perhaps he will be a great missionary among them one day.
Ben's turn. Seth relates a vision he had (this is true according to the family records) an angel came to him saying if he had faith to be healed there was a work here on earth for him to do but if Seth chose to pass on there was an equally greater work awaiting him on the other side of the veil to teach his ancestors the restored gospel. Seth will do that. He admonishes Ben to always stay strong in the faith. Ben weeps and promises. Outside in the hallway he and Joe embrace. It will take both of them to replace Seth.
February 19, 1835 Seth died in his sleep this afternoon and Ezekiel never got to say goodbye. Julia had sent Joel to Mentor to fetch him but it is past midnight by the time he stumbles into the kitchen where Julia had been sitting in her rocking chair, alone, for the older children retired to bed while her younger ones were taken to married children's homes to spend the night so Julia could have this much needed time to mourn by herself and deal with the grief. She feels the Lord's comforting spirit but it is still hard. So, when Ezekiel finally enters with Joel and learns Seth's body is lying in state in the front parlor he begins ranting and yelling (for he is intoxicated as usual) at this cursed religion that keeps taking the lives of their children. It takes the older daughters plus Joel and Almon to get him to bed to sleep it off. Almera is sitting by her father's bed when he awakens next morning. She has some sobering news. Julia's heart has been broken beyond repair. While Father Johnson did not physically strike her, his words wounded her thus that something must change.
Hearing this decides Ezekiel. He will officially move out and find a permanent living residence or a room in Mentor. Almera will live with him to cook and keep house and tuck him into bed when he stumbles home drunk, as Seth used to do. He tells Julia of his decision, on condition she must agree to visiting rights with the children so he can continue to see them for he loves them too. And if she ever finds herself needing financial assistance, he will not hesitate to give her whatever money he can spare, though it will be difficult paying rent on his own place as well as the child support to Julia. Julia says nothing, just nods her agreement at all her estranged husband's requests. This marriage is over and while Julia is not bitter or angry, it is still hard.
Chapter 4
Two stanzas by Joseph Johnson mourning the death of two beloved brothers
February 28, 1835
Frying doughnuts in hot lard for breakfast back in those days could be dangerous for a mother who had little ones underfoot. Delcena comforts her screaming four-year-old who had climbed up on a chair to see better and accidentally burned her finger. She will be okay but her three year old is about to get into the cream which Delcena plans to serve with the meal while her five year old is already primping in front a mirror, brushing her hair and not being much of a babysitter. Mom sighs, it is going to be one of those days. Her husband, Lyman, enters the room dressed and ready for the day in his Sunday best. He is 30 years old and today he will be set apart as one of the newly called seventy.
Almon is also at this setting apart meeting. Joseph blesses Lyman to be a "Son of Thunder" just like the two apostles of old. Lyman feels the thrill of the spirit as he is ordained to be one of the leaders of the Seventy-a General Authority.
The family had to wait ten days for the ground to thaw just to bury Seth's body. Many attend the funeral and Joel reads a poem dedicated to his younger brother. Almon attends another meeting, head bowed in sober reflection as others are called up to be set apart and ordained to the Seventy. Then, Brother Joseph calls his name. Filled with joy, thinking of his two best friends and mentors, Seth and David smiling down on him from heaven, Almon walks up to the stand where Joseph embraces him. His blessing is filled with many wonderful promises: a missionary to many lands and isles, long life, angels to watch over and guard him.
Chapter 5
"A Family Prayer" by Joel Johnson
There is no date to start off this chapter. Benjamin Johnson has been helping a man named Brother Davis set up his gunsmith shop in two rooms of the large Johnson home, partitioned off the main floor of the house which Julia is renting to him. In return for his "apprenticeship" Ben has been allowed to pick out a gun of his very own and assist in assembling it. His two younger brothers Will and George ages 11 and 12 tag along to watch. As Ben is testing the finely crafted weapon against his shoulder, Brother Brigham Young enters. Rumors of a mob attacking the workers at the temple site, unarmed, means they need guns except Brother Davis has none to spare. After a few agonizing minutes (What would Seth do?) Ben hands over his own gun. Brother Brigham thanks him and leaves.
To her dismay and horror, Almera is on her way to the carpentry shop to take her father his lunch when she witnesses Parley P. Pratt's sermon interrupted by a mob/marching band blaring music and followed by armed men. Giving them no heed, Parley continues to bear his testimony over the din. A silent signal is given, the band stops playing and Almera screams as the mob rushes Brother Pratt, pelting him with rotten eggs and other refuse.
Suddenly hands are gripping her shoulders from behind. It is Sam Prescott, hushing her impatiently, forcefully leading her away from the scene. This is no place for a lady. But Sam's actions were hardly chivalrous, once they reach the safety of the carpentry shop, he bursts out laughing at that fool preacher getting what he deserved. Almera's father is not here in the shop, he went to warn Brigham Young about the threat to Parley and Sam thinks her father is a fool for doing so. Almera is not amused, she slams the tin lunch pail on the bench and is about to storm out when Sam is barring the door with a weak apology. He impulsively kisses her. Almera finds herself responding.
That night, Almera serves her father his dinner-a pork stew topped with biscuits. She blesses it, and they eat together. They've just finished their last bites when a knock at the door reveals Mary, Joe and Ben here to relieve her. They brought apples and popcorn for a treat. Fourteen year old Mary will stay for the next few days to keep house for Papa with Joe while Ben will escort his sister back to the house in Kirtland where her sewing skills are in high demand to help the family earn extra money.
It doesn't take many days before Mary is scolding her Papa for his drinking as he has come home intoxicated again and she can't stand it! Doesn't he realize what he's doing to himself? Ezekiel bristles. It's that darn Mormon religion that takes his best children from him that's to blame, not his bad habits. He slams the front door in his exit. Mary buries her face in her arms on the table and sobs. Joe goes outside to talk to his father who is standing on the porch looking at the sunset. Perhaps Mary is too young to handle such a task as living with an old drunk like himself. He advises his son to send for Almera right away.
Chapter 6
"Youth's Prayer" by Joel Johnson
March 8, 1835
Benjamin Johnson feels so depressed and weary. He has been standing in the back of the room, observing as, one by one, the remaining men (200 total) who helped work on the temple come forward to receive a special priesthood blessing from the prophet and his brother, Hyrum. This has been going on for nine hours and took two days. Ben is happy for his oldest brother, Joel, whose blessing is full of many wonderful promises with his sacrifice recorded in heaven, but he also feels like crying. There can be no blessing for him for he has not worked on the temple like the others, but OH! How his spirit is crying out for one! Joseph concludes the last blessing then pauses asking his brother, "Is there not one more to be blessed? Go check."
Hyrum comes up the aisle with the intention of checking outside where men are gathered, chatting. He sees Ben and stops, inquiring if he did not also help with the temple? Ben admits he DID contribute a gun. That's enough for Hyrum. Arm around the young man's shoulders, Ben weeps openly as Brother Joseph lays his hands on his head and Ben will never forget this testimony strengthening experience that Heavenly Father is aware of ALL his children and he is never forgotten by the Lord. (This is a true story)
It is now April and Julia is getting ready for a special gathering at the Sherman's where Father Smith will give many of the Sherman and Johnson family members their Patriarchal blessings. Nancy will stay home to care for youngest sister Esther who has a slight cold and mild fever. Both don't mind. Esther can get her blessing later and Nancy reminds her mother she already received a sufficient blessing when she was healed.
Julia listens to Lyman and his sister and mother's blessings. Then her children (the ones who are present) are blessed starting with Delcena, then Almera who is promised she will be blessed through the priesthood of Melchizedek. Julia wonders if this means Almera's future husband will be a worthy priesthood holder. Susan is blessed to speak in tongues in praise of God. Mary is blessed that her name shall be sealed in heaven. Though Benjamin Franklin Johnson is younger by one year than his older brother, Joseph, Father Smith insists he is the next to be blessed. He is told that he is to receive the blessings and mission of his brother Seth, to go forth and be baptized and at last be crowned in the celestial kingdom. Julia and Ben both weep openly as they embrace tenderly after the blessing. (So, THAT'S what Seth meant when he shared that angelic revelation he received-that another would do the work for him here on earth if he chose to move on and that's exactly what happened!).
Joseph Johnson is promised "the Lord will give thee thy father" whatever that means. Julia wants to believe it means her beloved prodigal husband WILL come back to them and perhaps even embrace their faith.
Despite the gathering storm clouds, the wind and distant thunder, today (mid-April) is to be Ben and Joe's baptism. Julia worries but her two boys are determined. They remind their mother her own baptism took place secretly in the middle of a freezing January night. They fear their father swooping down to stop this. They simply can't wait another day. Both are dressed in their Sunday best and ready to do this.
Almera is determined to walk all the way from Mentor to Kirtland if she has to in order to make it to the baptism today. She got up early and has been walking for over an hour when a wagon pulls up alongside her. It is Sam. Her father did not spend the entire night at the tavern but came home only to find a dark empty house and no hot breakfast waiting for him. Concerned, he sent Sam to find his daughter. Sam will drop her off at the river for the baptism and drive her home in time to serve her Papa's supper afterwards. All he seems interested in is kissing her. Lyman performs the baptism and Almera is dropped off just in time as the men step into the cold water.
Ezekiel is working on his next order when Sam enters the shop to inform him he found his daughter who wished to go to Kirtland to visit her mother. Despite his promise not to tattle on her to her father, Sam declares a promise to a woman is meaningless and, as a friend and a fellow man, he feels Father Johnson should know the REAL reason his daughter snuck out this morning...(what a jerk!) But when Ezekiel returns home, he finds both boys and Almera sitting at the table where Almera dishes up a hot supper for all. After a very quiet meal, his sons inform him what they did today. Their father scowls. Seth and David wasted their lives chasing religion but what's done is done. Zeke turns and leaves for the tavern to drown his disappointment the only way he knows how while his sorrowful children watch him leave.
Chapter 7
Two short stanzas by Joel
May 1835
Julianne is teaching her two younger sisters, Mary and Esther, how to make cheese while Susan, Nancy and Mother Johnson are hard at work making palm leaf hats and stock ties to sell for the extra money they need. Very pregnant, Julianne struggles with nausea-this is a very stinky chore! They strain the mixture through the cheesecloth, saving the whey and putting the curds into the cheesepress. Flies swarm around them. Clapping a hand over her mouth, Juli has to excuse herself to run outside to the yard to be sick.
Susan follows her with an unfinished hat and sits with her as she drinks some water and rests while the baby kicks. Uncharacteristic Susan asks Juli outright what it's like to be married to Almon? Juli chuckles for her husband has an opinion about everything and everyone from the Prophet to the Pope. He is driven by his ambition both to be the best lawyer and the best missionary. He is often gone for days and weeks at a time and Juli is both lonely and busy with all the work that still needs to be done in running a 19th century household. But he both loves and respects her. Susan smiles and continues to sew, reminding her sister that is all that matters. Susan confides to Juli her single status no longer bothers her anymore. She feels peace and that God's plan for her, her family, for everyone, is moving forward. Juli wishes she could feel the same peace.
Delcena and her husband welcome a couple and their young son who have just moved to the area and need a place to stay so they will rent one of the rooms in their house. The two women quickly form a friendship and she brings a letter from Julianne who traveled with Almon to the area where they came from, Niagara (yes THAT area with the famous falls). They were just passing through but Julianne sang and Almon prayed and bore testimony and after the meeting two people requested baptism. Delci reads the letter and learns Almon offended one his fellow missionaries critiquing him on his preaching. He also had no qualms about ordering a bottle of wine at the hotel with their dinner. He is earnest and forthright and many don't appreciate it but Juli continues to love him, despite his flaws. The baby isn't due until September and she plans to be back in time for its birth.
In July 1835 some Egyptian mummies have arrived in Kirtland. The relics were purchased for $2,400. At the end of this month, over in the Johnson's old neighborhood, Almon wanted to make a quick stop to tell their old non-Mormon friends in that area of Nancy's miraculous healing but the baby decided to come early. Almon is the only one to assist. They will name the baby David.
A very humble Almon buries his face in his wife's shoulder and sobs.
Chapter 8
Another poem by Joel
There is no date for this chapter as Sam pulls up to the Johnson home in Kirtland so Almera can enjoy a Sunday visit with her family, Almera nearly squeals seeing her sisters sitting on the porch along with Julianne. She is here and she has a new baby! Sam kisses her passionately in front of the family and drives off, not interested in visiting with her family. He just wants her. But her sisters have a copy of Joseph's latest counsel to members of the church regarding marriage outside the faith (this will not be in the D&C just Times and Seasons) and they do not approve of Sam Prescott.
Feeling like she's in the middle of an intervention, Almera tries to convince her sisters that her new boyfriend respects her religion. If they were to marry, she and Sam's marriage wouldn't be like their estranged parents. With two married sisters, it is nice having a man of her own, never mind there might be other fish in the sea and holding this precious newborn only reminds Almera how much she longs to experience this for herself. Her other sisters excuse themselves to help mother with supper so Susan (the peacemaker) and Almera can read the words of the prophet together and discuss them.
Later, Almera speaks to her mother privately in her room so she can ask Julia, straight out, if she ever regretted marrying their less-religious father and how Julia feels about this new "doctrine" about women being subject to their husbands and the counsel about marrying outside the church. Julia regrets nothing about her marriage but she strongly advises her daughter to marry a worthy priesthood holder. Almera scoffs and exits the room. If she doesn't marry Sam, she may never marry at all and that would be a fate worse than death.
It is now August 1835 and Almon can't believe this is happening to him. Thanks to his know-it-all attitude and substandard behavior on his last mission he is being brought before a disciplinary council. Good thing Almon is a talented debater for he can defend himself without anyone to vouch for his character. He promises never to break the Word of Wisdom again and he will resolve to be more Christlike in his critique of other's teaching methods. He has been taught an important lesson today. The men accept this, shake his hand, no hard feelings and Almon is free to go. At home, Juli is just relieved he wasn't excommunicated. He will be returning to Pomfret with the other Elders so he can share the gospel with their old neighbors but Juli will be staying home with the new baby.
Chapter 9
Three stanzas by Joel about leaving to serve a mission for God
September 1835
Ben wants very much to travel with Almon and the other men to Pomfret and help preach the gospel to old friends and neighbors but he lacks the money to pay his share of the travel costs. No one has any money and even Ezekiel refused to help out when Ben's own brothers asked in his behalf. Feeling desperate, Ben goes to the home of Brother Joseph where Emma welcomes him warmly and directs him Joseph's private study room where Ben pours out his heart about his circumstances and the strong desire he feels to go back East to convince old friends and acquaintances of the restored gospel and of priesthood blessings-like the one that healed his sister. Joseph retrieves a purse, counts out the amount needed and presents it to the humble young boy saying it is right that he should go. He puts his hands on Ben's head and blesses him. Ben's anxiety turns to joy. (this is a true story)
Unfortunately, Ben and Almon's labors in Ben's hometown (an area several miles southwest of Palmyra, New York-Pomfret-just below Lake Erie while Palmyra is just below Lake Ontario near present day Rochester) do not produce any results. Those who once claimed they would join and believe Mormonism if Nancy were healed brush off Ben's testimony of the miracle and doors are slammed shut. Old friends and acquaintances are happy to see Ben, of course, hear all about the Johnson family and are willing to feed and board the two missionaries but have no interest in hearing their testimonies of the restored gospel. After just a few days, knocking on doors, holding meetings with very sparse attendance and zero baptisms in any of the small villages in the area, Ben is ready to give up and go home. Almon takes all the rejection in stride, as usual, making jokes and doing his best to cheer Ben up as good missionary companions are wont to do.
Ben visits one of his brother Joe's old friends who reports that special girl Ben knew Joe secretly would've married had she been more open to Mormonism went and married another of the local boys just last summer. Joe had even written her a letter and sent it with his brother. This friend promises Ben to pass it along to the new bride but when Ben gets home, Joe is very quiet after Ben reports the marriage.
Ben also went knocking at the very fine, frame house of Almera's old beau, the son of the minister who dumped Almera once he learned she was a believer in Joe Smith and his religion. Looks like he went and married a local girl, a small, plain, quiet girl already in the family way who answers the door. Her eyes fill with tears when Ben tells her of Nancy's miraculous healing. She remembers Nancy who helped Seth teach school before the accident. Nancy had taught her some of her first lessons and she always remembered the Johnson girl's kindness and intelligence. It is obvious this young woman would accept the gospel had she not been so intimidated by her preacher husband who is away this week on church business. Ben feels like the biggest failure, his first missionary experience and he didn't touch anyone. When Nancy hears the story she reminds her little brother what the reader also wanted to shout to Ben-he DID touch someone with his testimony. A seed was planted (this was all fictional but made for good storytelling. It could've happened!).
Chapter 10
George Washington Johnson was also talented in writing verse, he wrote this very short one dedicated to the Prophet Joseph Smith
December 12, 1835
Almon stops by the Johnson house to pick up Ben for a lively evening of friendly debate being held at the home of the prophet's brother, William. As a prospective lawyer, Almon is in his element while Ben already feels uncomfortable despite Almon's reassurance he won't be expected to join in tonight's debate. The Prophet is there along with many prominent members of the twelve and other church leaders. Don Carlos and Lyman are there too. Tonight's topic, as chosen by William, is "Was it necessary for God to reveal Himself to men for their happiness?" Since more are ready to defend than argue against, Almon joins the opposing team with a rather mischievous gleam in his eye. His argument of logic and reason is impressive as he points out men were born with intelligence and thanks to human kindness and decency-every man has always been perfectly capable of making his own happiness with or without a higher power to influence him. He quotes Thomas Paine before closing his argument and there is light applause. But before the other side can defend the statements, someone informs the Prophet a sick sister is requesting a blessing. Brother Joseph moves the meeting be adjourned until next Wednesday when the concluding arguments and ultimately the deciding vote (Brother Joseph's) will be given.
There are no women allowed at these meetings by the way.
The next meeting does not end well. After the prophet ends the arguments by giving a thrilling speech/testimony of the absolute necessity for God to reveal Himself to men, William begins shouting that this debate school has turned into a rather pathetic testimony meeting! Joseph and Hyrum attempt to quell the contention, even suggesting such meetings no longer be held. William roars that this is HIS house and he'll not be disrespected like this. With that he physically attacks his own brother, the prophet, and chaos erupts but it is quickly dispersed as Joseph is helped out the door by Brother Brigham and another of the brethren. Almon walks Ben home shaking his head that Brother Joseph brought the attack on himself by getting angry while Ben is very troubled at this side of Almon who once told him "Mormon boys stick together" and that he would always be there for Ben to look up to.
Ben confides to Nancy, who waited up for him. He is very disappointed in Almon for standing up for ideas and beliefs he has always preached against. He openly criticized the prophet tonight. Nancy helps him understand that our own peace and testimony of God is all that really matters. She suggests they say a prayer to invite the spirit back into their hearts. Ben thanks his older sister and goes upstairs to bed. Nancy takes a candle and also retires but Susan is coughing and still awake. She assures Nancy she is not dying-YET-but she feels the dreaded consumption coming on, she recognizes Seth's symptoms but the spirit has promised her she would live to help finish sewing the veil for the temple. The sisters hold each other and weep gently-each receiving strength from the other.
As a result of Almon's insensitive remark of "the one side knocking the other down in order to prove their point" he is again being brought before a high council and both Lyman and Ben have been asked to testify as character witnesses in Almon's defense. Both are very troubled. Lyman goes to the prophet for counsel and advice and this is when D&C 108 was given, a revelation just for Lyman! It is only 8 verses long but it is printed here in its entirety.
December 28, 1835
The day of the council. All have the chance to speak either for or against the character of Brother Almon W Babbitt. Ben only testifies that both William and Brother Joseph were mad and angry but William was more violently angry-like a bull. Lyman points out all men, including Brother Babbitt sometimes say things they don't mean. Almon himself gives another short speech, humbly admitting his faults and that, once again, he's learned his lesson and will try to be a better example of a member of the Seventy from now on. This is good enough for the council. If Almon will publicly repeat what he just said, bearing his testimony that he does sustain and honor Joseph as God's prophet, all will be forgiven and forgotten. Almon accepts and jokes about it later to Ben as they are walking home. He tried to out-debate a prophet, nearly beat him in a battle of intelligent argument but since Brother Joseph IS the prophet of course he had to be the winner. Almon admits he got what he deserved but everyone knows who REALLY won! Ben isn't so sure.
Chapter 11
A few lines by
Joel H. Johnson
January 11, 1836 The temple is nearly complete. The entire
outside is finished. Thanks to the donations of china and some river sand all
mixed in with the plaster, the exterior walls sparkle in the winter sun.
Ezekiel, Almera, and Joel have all stopped to admire it on their way to Mentor.
Several nights later, Delcena Sherman is
awakened by the return of her husband, Lyman. It is 2am and he has been away
all day attending meetings in the temple which will be dedicated in just a few
days. He smells very clean with a faint odor of cinnamon oil. He has been
washed and anointed and received his endowment. He is fairly glowing from the
spiritual high.
Delcena begs him to share some of the
experience with her-she has been home washing diapers and chasing after fussy
children all day-please! Rolling onto his back in bed, Lyman tucks her in the
crook of his arm and stares up at the ceiling. Joseph saw his brother Alvin in
the Celestial Kingdom (see D&C 137) as the Lord revealed the doctrine for
the work of the dead to go forth in temples all over the earth starting with
this one here in Kirtland. Lyman received great blessings from his brethren
today when they laid hands on him. Many spoke in tongues and testified as all
took their turns in receiving their endowment. Soon he will pronounce these
same washings, anointing and blessings on other members of the Seventy,
including Almon. Delcena thinks to herself how her sister will feel as she
does, unable to share fully in their husbands’ work in the ministry and
building the kingdom while they must stay home and keep house.
No date is given but the day is warm, promising
spring is just around the corner as Julia enters the carpentry shop in Mentor
for some “co-parenting” time with her estranged husband. They walk outside and
chat about the children. Susan is not well-coughing, not eating, going to bed
early every night and not engaging in her usual activities, almost
melancholy-yet she refuses to see a doctor. She is such a quiet and independent
thing, Julia won’t force her but her mother’s instinct tells her this treasured
daughter will not be with them much longer. Zeke scoffs, he’ll speak to his
solemn, black eyed girl.
As they enter the shop again there is
laughter from Sam Prescott, William, George and Joseph who is standing in front
of them with a hand outstretched like a famous orator reading from a piece of
paper. Almera is the only one NOT laughing, she looks ready to murder her
little brothers and her boyfriend for making fun of such a special, sacred act
as showing affection to a girl with a kiss, “The Art of Kissing” is the name of
the article Joseph is reading aloud in exaggeration. Even Julia is shocked by
the loose terms used to describe the pleasure a man derives from kissing a
young maiden.
In the sleigh driving home, Julia counsels
Joe that his love of dances and parties and consorting with questionable
friends is not the proper way to honor the two dead older brothers he misses so
terribly. They all miss Seth and David but should rely on God and the Savior to
comfort them. Joe sighs knowing Mother is right yet all know that Susan will
most likely be the next to go…
But Nancy, taking her turn in Mentor to cook
and keep house for Papa, may actually be the next go. In a short scene of
foreshadowing, she awakens one morning, coughing like Susan has been doing but
feels well enough to saddle one of the horses and urges her alarmed Papa to
come riding with her. He reluctantly agrees and Nancy declares this the best
morning of her entire life. She will remember this day always. Zeke tells her
she must marry and give him some gray-eyed children to take riding. Nancy just
smiles for she is almost 33 years old now, no young man will ever want her even
now that she is no longer lame and crippled.
Chapter 12
George
Washington Johnson wrote a long poem entitled, “The Old Kirtland Temple”
February 22, 1836
Mother Julia, Delcena, Julianne, Almera and
Susan are all here this morning at the temple to complete the final interior
design work of curtains and veils to separate the large auditorium when needed.
Annie is here too, thrilled to have a day off from homemaking duties. Nancy is
in Mentor with Father Johnson but will come later. Susan is thrilled when one
of the sisters in charge requests her help in overseeing and directing a small
group of sisters in completing one of the veils as her sewing skills and
talents are well known in Kirtland.
Late that afternoon, Nancy and Ezekiel
arrive. Zeke had not been too thrilled in bringing his daughter to work on the
Mormon temple but seeing how determined she was he gave in. Outside, Joseph
Smith runs up to greet his old friend and neighbor and talks him into coming
inside for a personal tour of the temple, since Father Johnson wanted to see
his others daughters anyway, he agrees. It is as if he has entered a heavenly
realm as his daughters rush over to greet him: Julianne shows off her sleeping
baby David who is learning to crawl, Susan stands up from the group of women
she was instructing to embrace her Papa, something she hasn’t done since she
was a little girl! She is happier than he has seen her in a long time and Zeke
cannot understand why. His daughter radiates a divine calling of feminine
leadership, as if her very purpose on earth was right here, directing a group
of women in the art of needlework and finding joy.
Joseph catches
up to the Patriarch and takes him upstairs where a smaller auditorium mirrors
the grand one below. He shows him the attic partitioned off into five
classrooms where he bears testimony that it was here God showed him the wonders
and glory of heaven where he KNOWS Father Johnson’s two sons have gone. Ezekiel
just shakes his head. He doesn’t believe in heaven anymore.
March 16, 1836
The funeral for Susan Johnson is held in
the Kirtland schoolhouse where this bright daughter of God helped teach. Before
she died, she called each of her siblings to her deathbed to bear testimony to
them of the gospel and reassure them she was going to a better place.
Sidney Rigdon preaches the eulogy: Her good
works would testify of her life and she is surely now walking in heaven with
loved ones. Father Johnson holds a weeping Esther in his lap, his children hold
each other and cry while on the very opposite end of the row Mother Julia holds
Amos in her lap rubbing Joe’s back as he sits hunched over in tears. Ezekiel
finds no comfort in Brother Rigdon’s words. Even meeting the watery blue eyes
of Joseph Smith, grieving with the rest of the family as he presides up on the
stand are no help. He can’t wait for this to be over so he can go to the tavern
for a drink to ease the burning in his throat.
March 27, 1836
Today is the day of the dedication of the
Kirtland Temple! Julianne is singing in the choir. Mother Julia is only too
happy to relieve a distressed Almon of the baby who quickly falls asleep in her
arms as Sidney Rigdon preaches a long address. Her other children sit quietly
and participate in the dedication services. It is a thrilling day. Nancy,
Almera and Mary are weeping for joy while Joseph and Benjamin also discreetly
wipe tears as they listen to the Prophet give the dedicatory prayer. As the
choir sings “The Spirit of God” Mother Julia knows she can hear the departed
voices of Susan, David and Seth among the singers and is comforted.
That evening, Joel Johnson, Lyman Sherman
and Almon Babbit attend the Priesthood Session of the dedicatory service where
great things are witnessed such as the speaking and prophesying in tongues, the
sound of a great rushing wind and the Prophet Joseph proclaiming that the room
is filled with angels from the other side of the veil! Several blocks away in
the Johnson Home two of their wives-Julianne and Delcena hear the unusual sound
coming from the temple and go outside to behold the entire building glowing
under the power of God.
(*Chapter
Notes* at the end of the book say that Father Johnson’s visit to the temple
that day in February was inserted for storytelling purposes. While it is likely
the Johnson daughters were there helping, no official records exist but Joseph
Smith did record in his journal attending the funeral of Susan Johnson and sharing
his grief with this special family.
Chapter 13
Short poem by
Joel Johnson
June 1836
Lyman Sherman and Joel Johnson’s wives are
each expecting new babies with delivery dates very close to each other. The
joke between the two families is whichever baby cousin is born first will get
the honor of being named Seth or Susan, for obvious reasons. This is shared
with Brother Joseph who has come to the Sherman residence to see the Tracy
family off to Far West, Missouri. This family has been staying with the Shermans
and while the two families have gotten along well with each other, Lyman and
Delcena look forward to having their own house to themselves again. Joseph is
here to give Brother Tracy some money he owed him which is an answer to
prayers as nobody has any money to spare right now. Since there is a meeting
both men need to be getting to at the temple, Lyman walks with Brother Joseph.
The church is heavily in debt. The beautiful
new House of the Lord was not cheap to build and Brother Joseph fears for the
Tracy family as talk coming from that area of Missouri is not good with locals
complaining about these odd Mormons who don’t share the same political views as
they do.
Almon is preaching a missionary sermon to a
group of investigators at the schoolhouse one evening and he wants Lyman and
Benjamin there for moral support. Almon uses Lyman’s spectacles as part of an
object lesson in how the gospel both magnifies our sins and imperfections so we
might better come unto Christ but also helps us see everything more clearly. Ben
is asked to give the closing prayer. Four people come up afterwards to request
Mormon Elders come to their homes to teach them more for many in the room
tonight remembered Seth’s example and leadership in the community as a fine
teacher and speaker of religion. Ben feels proud to have his name associated
with his deceased brother’s.
While no date
is given here in this chapter, *Notes* in the back of the book state that
according to family records, Lyman and Delcena were the first to have a baby, a
boy they named Seth Sherman born on the last day of June, 1836. As far as the fictional account goes, narration says, after Lyman returned from
assisting Almon by attending his missionary meeting (which DID happen, we just
don’t know the date or the details of what Almon actually preached) he joined his
sleeping wife in bed only to be awakened in the pre-dawn hours with her in
labor.
Lyman fetches
his mother-in-law and Julianne from Almon’s to come assist with the birth,
Almera also comes, but later that day when he enters the house after taking
everyone home he finds his wife sobbing in her bed with the baby fussing. Her
mother and sisters relayed the sad news that Nancy is dying, that she knows
this and is ready to go but Delcena isn’t ready to give her up yet. Part of her
grief is knowing her older sister will never have the opportunity to marry or
have children in this life despite her miraculous healing and that’s just sad.
Lyman holds and comforts his wife as best he can.
Chapter 14
Many lines by
Joseph Johnson about two lovely sisters, laid in a grave
September 1836
Alone in her father’s small house in
Mentor, Almera paces the floor. It is nighttime and a late summer storm is
raging outside. Almera is greatly troubled by the deaths of her other siblings,
two older and Susan was the next sister born after herself. All three died as
single adults without any spouses or posterity to remember them by. Nancy is
next. Will that be HER fate as well? She wants to be married! She is so tired
of death. She wants to live! Might as well settle for Sam Prescott.
Speak of the devil; here he is now knocking
at the door with her inebriated father in tow. He drops him on his bed and is
marching out the door when Almera stops him by declaring her love for him. He
looks at her in disbelief for they have dated and broken up many times over
these last few years he was about to give up but he says nothing as Almera
bursts into fresh tears and goes into the other room to cover her Pa with a
quilt. Suddenly, Sam’s arms are around her. He lifts her up like a new bride
and carries her over the threshold out into the night into the warm rain where
they kiss passionately. He takes her back inside to place her gently on the
sofa and strokes her head and face and shoulders and arms, promising to speak
to her Mormon Prophet, Brother Joseph, to ask if he might marry them since he
has no religious affiliation. Almera thanks him. He kisses her hard again on
the mouth.
When Julia hears the news of the engagement
and that Brother Joseph has agreed to marry them, she worries her daughter is
chasing something that won’t end up making her happy but Almera looks happier
than anyone has seen her since before Susan’s death. She even laughs as she
relates how she asked SAM to marry HER. Sixteen year old Mary can’t wait to
help plan the wedding. Almera runs upstairs to tell Nancy.
Almera and Sam Prescott are married on
October 16, 1836. Eight years ago the family had been celebrating Delcena’s
wedding to Lyman and Julia had just given birth to Amos. Benjamin and Joe help
Nancy to her old reclining chair in the front room so she might also witness
the ceremony. She coughs and is very weak but is happy for her sister. The
entire audience seated in the front room of the house are either Johnsons or
next of kin. Sam has absolutely nobody here to share his day of joy, Ezekiel
can relate as he didn’t have anyone representing his side of the family either when he took Julia to wife another
lifetime ago.
Joseph marries them but he does not include
the traditional phrase “For as long as you both shall live” or even “till death
do you part” just asks if they will be faithful to each other during their
lives? Both whisper softly, “yes.” And so they are married.
Later, Father Johnson, assisted by Joe, helps
Nancy back upstairs to her bed where he sits with her as she struggles to
breathe. As always, Nancy is a saint of patience and acceptance. Brother Joseph
has followed them upstairs and Zeke observes as this prophet of God places his
hands on Nancy’s head to give her a final blessing, both releasing her from
this life and promising that she SHALL be a wife and mother, a Queen, having
joy therein. Joseph exits and Ezekiel continues to keep vigil by his daughter’s
side. She will pass away on October 30. Age 33. Laid to rest in the orchard
near the bodies of her other siblings behind the house.
Joseph is forming a Kirtland Safety Society
and those of us who read “Work and the Glory Vol 3” knows how THAT turned out!
Disastrous. Almon is right to counsel the Johnson family men to have nothing to
do with this foolish endeavor, meaning no disrespect to the Prophet, of course
but a bank without any real currency or cold hard cash of any kind-even Spanish
coins are still acceptable out here on the American Frontier-is NOT going to
work. There are laws, Almon reminds them, and if anyone knows more about the
laws of this land and the penalties for printing worthless bank notes-it’s HIM,
the aspiring lawyer. This dinner conversation is not going very well.
To make matters
worse, little baby David, who just took his first steps a few days ago, has
been battling illness for some time. That night, Almon and Juli awake to the
baby’s almost animal-like coughing and wheezing. Almon takes the child and
rides hard to Doctor Fredrick G. Williams but Baby David died during the
journey, the doctor is very sorry. His wife takes the child’s body with the
promise to dress it for burial to spare Juli who nearly collapses in her grief
when Almon returns empty-handed. He supports her, reassuring, they WILL survive
this!
*Chapter Notes*
There are actually ZERO family records celebrating a marriage for Almera. They
had to search Kirtland town records to find a marriage solemnized by Joseph
Smith Jr of one Almira Johnson who married Samuel Prescott. A family letter
Mother Julia wrote to her sister around this time mentions Almera and Julianne
both married respectable men but that’s it! No names or details of either
marriage are given. How nice it would be if Joseph Smith’s blessing to Nancy
had actually occurred but the authors give no explanation for why they included
it in their fictitious story.
Chapter 15
To help comfort
his grieving sister, Joel wrote this poem “On the Death of Her Child”
January 1837
Julianne has, indeed, been like a shadow of
her old self, unable to get past her devastating grief of losing her baby
David. She has been spending a lot of time at Mother Johnson’s house where
little sister, Mary, has been her constant companion with her cheerful and
positive demeanor which is a comfort but Juli just can’t shake her depression.
Callers at the house this winter morning are
a new family in town, the Huntingtons, who have become good friends with the Johnson family. Sister Huntington also lost babies. Mother Julia also knows
exactly what Julianne is going through. Both women sit next to Juli and offer
words of strength and comfort. Juli sobs in her mother’s arms.
Sam informs his new wife all is not well
with Joe Smith and this new bank. His enemies are telling everyone not to
support it and the church’s debts are causing contention among prominent
members. He shows her a couple of newspaper articles which Almera reads but she
won’t doubt her faith. Sam kisses her and she responds, she has no choice; her
husband’s temper can change as fast as the raw winter winds blowing outside and
it would not be good to get on his bad side.
February 19, 1837
Lyman attends another meeting in the temple,
sitting up on the stand as President of the Seventy. His wife and family are
seated in the congregation. Only six weeks ago he had sung in tongues in this
very room, (*Chapter Notes* say this is true according to the daily journals
kept by Wilford Woodruff) now the church is divided against itself with many
openly criticizing Joseph, questioning his authority as God’s chosen prophet
thanks to the failure of the bank. But Joseph takes the pulpit and preaches a
strong and powerful sermon that revives Lyman and all in attendance.
Well, almost
everyone! The prophet’s strongest critic, a former friend and scribe, Warren
Parrish catches up to Almon and Benjamin both solemnly walking home from the
meeting. Warren is getting names of all who would join their group in
impeaching the prophet. Almon coldly informs him they want nothing to do with
it. They are Team Joseph.
Chapter 16
A poem by Joel
Johnson about the Lord showing mercy to his people
March 1837
Money is power. When Ezekiel answers his
door early one morning to find Joseph Smith come to call on him, he reminds him
of that fact. Joseph nods solemnly. He is on his way to a hearing; one of his
old friends is taking him to court accusing him of wrongful speculation with
the bank funds. He was hoping Ezekiel might have some advice, especially since
he hears things in the tavern that might be of use to him. While he did not
come to ask for financial aid, Ezekiel pulls some coins out of the cookie jar and
insists Joseph take them which he does. His blue eyes meet Zeke’s gray ones as
he thanks him humbly with a “God bless you.”
Susan and Nancy were the best seamstresses
and needlework artists in the family. With their deaths, Mother Julia no longer
has a business to bring in extra income. She also has no need for the large
house she currently resides in. Joe shows her property outside of Kirtland with
a smaller house and enough land to put in crops which Joe will set aside his
studies (he would still be a medical doctor) to do for his mother and younger
siblings until they are all grown and moved out.
The remaining children still living at home:
Joe, Ben, Mary, George, William, Esther and Amos all sit at the table with
their mother discussing the new circumstances and the upcoming move. Mary
tosses her long, dark blonde braid, and declares SHE can work in the fields to
help provide food as well as any boy but her two older brothers remind her they
aren’t THAT poor, not yet! They will begin spring plowing and planting right
away so the family can eat next winter.
May 29, 1837
A meeting to determine Brother Joseph’s
status as prophet of the church quickly collapses. Lyman observes the entire
thing while Joseph sat helplessly on the stand as one after another of his old
friends, now his enemies; each declared their lack of confidence in sustaining
a new prophet. This isn’t right and everyone knows it. The meeting is adjourned
and all go home.
June 19, 1837
Benjamin Johnson and William Huntington have become good friends over
these last six months. They are cutting hay out in a field, within sight of the
Huntington’s fine two story white frame house when another enemy of Joseph
approaches them, warning them to join their side. Brother Joseph is currently
lying at death’s door in his sickbed, a sign from God that he is no longer a
prophet. Many, including William’s father, are gathered at the temple right now
in fasting and prayer for his health and for the future of the church.
William’s sister, Zina, exits the house carrying a tray with a snack for the
boys and the contention between the two boys and this enemy of the church
dissipates. Later that day, Lyman will bring the news that Brother Joseph has
made a full recovery and everything is going to be alright.
*Chapter Notes*
at back of the book say personal writings of several sources agree that Lyman
Sherman was Joseph Smith’s “right-hand man” and that many years later, when little
baby Susan grew up and got married, Heber C. Kimball came to her wedding and
after asking her if she was Lyman’s daughter informed her of her father’s high
regard among his brethren in the church, especially Brother Joseph to whom he was called “his
right-hand man.”
Chapter 17
Poem by Joel
Johnson that despite enemies wishing him ill, God is always there!
July 26, 1837
Almon did what he promised he would do, take
Julianne to Canada on his mission, despite some of the brethren’s counsel that
men should not take their wives along on such trips. Yet, his wife was so
melancholy, a change of scenery appears to have helped. Almon has traveled back
to Kirtland for a quick visit and runs into Brigham Young on his way there who
shares the latest news. Nobody in Kirtland has been excommunicated; everyone is
mostly back on friendly terms with Brother Joseph. Almon is weary, he warns Brigham
to tell Joseph he has enemies and his life may still be in danger.
Almon’s warning proves prophetic come August 1837 (This scene is also in “Work
and the Glory Vol. 3”) during Sunday meeting in the temple. Conducted by Father
Smith, all presiding First Presidency are out of town, including Joseph while Brigham
Young and Hyrum Smith are both away on missions. Suddenly, Warren Parish and
other dissenters enter the room armed with knives and other weapons here to
break up the meeting. Chaos erupts. Julia and
Delcena and all the children are crying. Panicked people are jumping out
windows. Joe and Benjamin assist the children and their mother in doing the same.
Nobody is killed and local police have also arrived on the scene to restore
some order. Almon was also involved and took a black eye for his passionate
efforts to defend the peace.
Next day, word of the “Mormon Riot” is all
over the area so, of course, Ezekiel is here to find out for himself if his
family is all right. He’d also like to take Amos back with him to visit. He and
Almera enjoy his company. Julia goes into the house to fetch her son, glad her
husband is not upset or yelling “Told you so!” about this fool religion. After
losing four children to death, both have softened considerably when it comes to
trials and challenges.
Fall has arrived and the church is now
going after any young men and boys whose behavior may be too “worldly”
especially when it comes to attending dances and socials where strong drinks
are served. Joe is fond of going to these as he is so popular, outgoing and
friendly yet he is also tenderhearted enough to feel nervous as he stands
before the entire church one Sunday in the temple at their main meeting to
“confess.” He already had to stand before a high council and give the same
speech he is about to recite now…His mother and all his siblings, including
Almera who rarely attends meetings anymore since she married a “gentile” are
all giving him encouraging looks. Mary just winks at him. Joseph admits his
behavior in drinking at these parties and socials was wrong and he will do his
best to set a better example and conduct himself as a member of the church should.
He bears testimony that Joseph Smith is a prophet and sits down. Brother Joseph
then asks the congregation if they accept Brother Johnson’s confession and
every hand goes up. Joe is very relieved!
Contention against the prophet arises again
late one night as everyone sleeps, including Lyman and his wife who is nursing
their new baby whom they named Daniel. A drunk wanders up and down their street
shouting that Joseph is a fallen prophet and everyone needs to repent. Lyman is
about to go outside to confront the man when Brigham Young steps out of his own
house with a whip threatening to use it if this older man (recently
disfellowshipped) does not cease and desist. He backs down and Brigham and Lyman
share their concerns about the possibility of a war breaking out among the Saints.
This issue continues to be a tinderbox, ready to explode. By December, just
three days before Christmas, it becomes necessary for Brigham Young to leave
his wife, Mary Ann, and their children and go into hiding for a time-thanks to
his lion-like defense of the prophet.
*Chapter Notes*
say according to Benjamin’s journal, HE was the only one implemented for going
to dances and needing to confess of which he wrote a letter, humbly denying
attendance at any such dances, that he only wanted to be a latter-day saint and
if they found reason to excommunicate him, he would take the earliest
opportunity allowed to be rebaptized. There is no mention anywhere that Joe
ever had to confess but the authors decided to create it here. There are also
no family records or writings if they really were present at the “riot” in the
temple but it is probably likely they were in attendance on that dark day in August, 1837.
Chapter 18
Poem by Joel Johnson
about being faithful to God with all our souls
January 1837 (they mean 1838!)
Almera’s marriage to Sam is already falling
apart. Despite his promise when they got engaged he has since reneged in
allowing her to attend meetings in the temple and will no longer come with her
to visit her mother or family claiming he can’t stomach their overly pious religious
beliefs. He barely tolerates her own visits to see her family.
Lying in bed with him one night, Almera reminds
him of all these broken promises. He snaps that if she would rather join the OTHER
Mormon Church, the one not currently being led by a fool who calls himself a
prophet who has no common sense when it comes to running a bank that lost so
many people in the community their money, then maybe he would allow her to live
her religion. Oh, and by the way, those enemies of Joseph Smith have Lyman Sherman’s
number, he’s next on their hit list so he will also be forbidding his wife to associate
with her sister and her family from now on. Almera informs him she would never give
up her faith in the Lord’s prophet and His true church and she will warn her
brother-in-law if she has to. Sam just snorts, and, after he makes love to her,
both return to their separate sides of the bed.
Next day, Almera waits until her husband has
left for the carpentry shop before leaving the house and walking to Kirtland, (which
takes about half an hour) to warn her sister’s family. Delcie is very glad to
see her. Someone threw a burning torch into their cellar last night but Lyman
put out the fire before it could do any harm. He is gone right now and she is so
nervous whenever she is left alone with just the children. As a nursing mother,
she doesn’t think anyone will do them any real harm but just in case, Ben is
coming over tonight to stay with her. Lyman won’t leave the prophet’s side and
while Delcie supports her husband in everything this is still very hard.
They will likely be moving to Missouri soon
with all the other faithful members of the church. Almera starts to weep for
she doesn’t want to be left here all alone if her family leaves the area to
follow Joseph. She admits her husband is not supportive. Delcie makes her
promise if Sam is ever unkind to her, she is to send word to any of them and
they will come rescue her.
Lyman has been given charge by the Prophet
before he leaves town for the safety of his own life, to keep watch over the
small printing press and six hundred copies of the Book of Mormon freshly
printed and awaiting distribution-all currently being housed in a small
building on the outskirts of Kirtland. Lyman goes there that night, ready to
burn the building down if he needs to but first he would get all those precious
copies of the Book of Mormon out of there. Too late when enemies of the church
enter the room plotting to burn this building and all those copies of the Book to
the ground while Lyman takes cover in the back of the room and nobody knows he’s
there. They leave and he makes the terrible decision to set fire to the
building. Benjamin arrives with the wagon to carry the precious copies away but
Lyman tells him to go to Delcena and keep watch over his family, never mind
about saving the books or even the building with this printing press. Lyman sobs as he torches the place and the flames attract the attention of everyone in the area.
Even later that night, safe back at his
home, Delcena knows what they must do. She and Ben will pack up the house and
she will move in with Julia. Lyman will leave town, under pretense of serving a
mission. When all of this confusion over who is to blame for setting fire to
the church’s printing office is over, he can return and take them all away to Missouri.
The final scene of this book is between Ezekiel
and Julia, Zeke arrives at the house to see everyone (Delcena and her children
are here too) and is directed downstairs to the root cellar where Julia is
taking stock of all food storage before the move. He and Julia have a sort of reconciliation
as she weeps over all they’ve been through and he takes her in his arms and holds
her tenderly for several minutes and sheds a few tears of his own. He takes all
blame but Julia knows she is partly to blame too. He will keep an eye on Almera
and the graves of their four adult children. They will probably not see each
other again for a long time and too much water has passed under the bridge for
them to ever be together again as husband and wife. After her husband leaves, Julia
remains kneeling on the floor of the root cellar, sobbing as her heart breaks
all over again. Her grandson, Albey, (Delcena’s child) enters the room looking
for her and she hugs him reassuring him everything is all right. God is still watching
over all, she has her posterity, and Julia takes great comfort in that.
THE END
