Smith, J: Improvement Era, Vol. 8

Excerpt from Improvement Era, Vol. 8: December, 1904

After that, winter or summer, I never went by Brother John's without calling on him. He lived all alone. His wife has been dead for many years, and his children are scattered. One son lives in a town not very far away, but he might as well be with his brother in Australia for all he does or cares for his father; for, since Mor monism has come to Brother John, this son, who aims to be some thing in the world, will have nothing to do with his parent. Five years ago his only daughter, Mary, went to Zion. She married a good Mormon boy, and they have been the old man's anchor of hope; and, I am glad to say, it has not been in vain.

One day last summer when I called to see him, he was not at home. I enquired of his nearest neighbor regarding his where abouts, and was informed that he had gone to the other side of the island to help a farmer with his hay. He had left the key to his door, with instructions that if I should come in his absence it was to be given to me. I took the key and went back to the house. It was a warm, sunny afternoon, and I sat down on the seat by the Side of the door. The little plat of soil by the house was filled with sweetly scented ¿owers. A cool breeze came from the sea, and out on the water there were some white sails on the horizon. The sun sank into the ocean, and the shadows grew deeper. Just as the lamp began to shine from the lighthouse on the point, Brother John came with slow and steady steps down the path; but when he saw me he quickened his pace.

He went into the house, and he was soon busy at cupboard and table. I've been helping with the hay, he explained, that's Why I am so late tonight. You see, I can't go on the water much lately - and then, you know; I must learn to be a farmer. That's what Mary says - I'm so glad you came. What did you do with your song book, young man?

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