OCTOBER 16, 1914
Found a family by name of Smith, H. B. They are kind of lukewarm. I like them hot or cold, and then we can do something with them. Sister Crosby is still improving.

OCTOBER 17, 1914
Saturday studied forenoon and went to Samsons. Got some candy and had a good laugh. Also visited the Hopkins family. Popcorn for supper. Studied, a bath, and to bed.
Looked up a family. Found them to be Josephites. Had quite a time--put up some pretty good argument. She knew some about the Bible, but little about her Reorganized Church. Invited us back again.

OCTOBER 18, 1914
Sunday. The Yegen Brothers consented to let us hold Church in their hall at $10.00 a month. Elder Anderson took charge of Sunday School this morning--following an outline I made. The first L.D.S. Sunday School in Billings. Administered the sacrament and then instructed them a little. Called on the Saints for testimonies. Sister Moses, Brother Olif Lundwall, Sister Harriet Eyre spoke fine. Had 22 there including ourselves, and surely had a good spirit. Sang a few songs and in the afternoon, visited Sister Crosby, and in evening had a nice service. Elder Anderson spoke 15 minutes on the apostasy and I gave them 50 minute talk on Restoration. It's the first time I ever felt such a free flow of the spirit. We felt fine and very pleased over our success. 11 present--Sister Eyre and daughter, Sister Moses, Brother Lundwall and son, Sister Lowe and Dimple, Sister Hansen and two Elders.

OCTOBER 19, 1914
Feeling a little buggered up this day. Too much preaching. Been studying, visiting, talking, etc.

OCTOBER 20, 1914
Tuesday. Going to see Sister Samson. She is quite sick so we hear. Feeling little punk after no sleep for some cause last night. Sister Samson has serious ailment, but she is quite jolly about it. Surely a jolly old soul.

OCTOBER 21, 1914
Wednesday morning. Studied and in the afternoon went upon the rim north of the city. Surely can get a nice view of the valley here and is some country too. Stayed up there three or four hours. An old gentleman came up, and finally two young ladies came with cameras. We joshed them a little, and they bunched us up on a big rock and took our pictures. Then I ran the camera on them. Came back to Sister Sorensons. She is feeling fine as usual. Home and spent the evening with Sister Lowe and Sister Eyre and Dimple.

OCTOBER 22, 1914
Sister Crosby had her hired girl phone for us. We went over. She had been cramping and almost died gasping for breath. Gave her a little warm H2O and then administered to her. We went back at 2 :00 and she was over the cramps and feeling a good deal better.

SUGAR FACTORY
We then proceeded to the Sugar factory, a large brick establishment , located south of the city on the river. To begin where the beets are dumped, they are pushed into streams of H2O, washed, sliced, and boiled into syrup in the top of the building--brown sugar, white, drying in large steel revolving tanks,--there sacking and stacking (for 24 hours) before hauling. Fine sight for an Arizona lad.
Visited Sister Harris and found them to be fine people. Ate supper and got an invitation back again.

OCTOBER 23, 1914
This morning quite cloudy and cold. I felt like a rotten squash--no sleep. One of my S.S.A. spells again. Visited Smiths and Lloyds trying to get some baptizing done, but could make the riffle. Sister Lowe tells us every day of some conversation she has had on Religion. She is surely doing lots of good here now.
Going to meet Myrtle Crosby of Cowley, Wyoming. She is coming to see Sister Howard Crosby who has been ailing for some time. My cousin is Myrtle--some piece of fatness, big as young boxcar. Happy and divorced.

OCTOBER 25, 1914
Sunday. Mr. Crosby took our pictures this morning. Met Brothers Nelse and Olif Lundwall and Sister Lowe.

OCTOBER 26, 1914
Tracting this morning. Had some fine conversations. One fellow, Reverend J. G. Emerick told us how he was called to the ministry mid shouts of hallelujahs, amens, and etc.. One night he was praying and asked God if he was chosen to be one of his ministers, and was answered by a loud peal of thunder--three times. This was his calling. I told him we didn't have to wait 'till a rain storm came up and then get on our prayer bones bothering the Lord about our callings and asking if we were his chosen ministers, and squat there till it thundered. We were called as was Aaron and Moses of old--given power and authority. He kept telling us his experiences, how he had calmed the sea, etc., and everytime he said anything that pleased him he would say Hallelujah--Amen. He stood on the porch above me. I kept my eye on his and exercised my right, and he finally got overcome and couldn't tell us what he was thinking--trying to quote, "Father forgive them for they know not, etc." and he couldn't do it. Gave us some pamphlets--his visions. He saw God, Moses and Elijah. They never spoke to him nor commanded him to do anything--he just saw them and knew it was they, because he kissed one. Couldn't tell anything significant of his vision except "Halleluah--Amen." Poor ignoramus. I had no patience with him and told him that would do, I knew better, for in the first place, these men did not come to earth without purpose, and second, that they wouldn't allow a dupe like him to kiss them. He said if he was us fellows, he would go to bed and quit Mormonism. Made him a promise I could put him to bed on anything, and intended preaching what he was pleased to call Mormonism, because it was Christ's teachings. He had nothing to say on authority like Aaron, nor the Holy Ghost. His was all in thunder, and he always waited 'till it thundered to pray, then he got up and did as he pleased, cause it thundered when he asked God if it was right.

Visited Sister Sorenson 946 3rd Street, and Sister Crosby. Both improving. Card from Cousin Maud Crosby.

OCTOBER 28, 1914
Tracted for space for a couple of hours. A few pretty good conversations. Visiting saints in afternoon.

OCTOBER 29, 1914
Studied all day on the Dispersion of Israel.

OCTOBER 30, 1914
Spent today in contemplation of Israel, subject. Started my outline. Meeting at Eyres.

OCTOBER 31, 1914
Finished my outline for Sunday talk. Some outline. Letter from Mae--picture of Mae. They're home and part of family. 'Tis first time I have wanted to go home right bad. B. her, haha: Come along.
Visited Eyres and our picture and girls. Nice family--both married.
Sister Crosby still picking up. Success to me on the morrow. Went to a picture show and Halloween Party.

NOVEMBER 1, 1914
Sunday. Sunday School was fine this morning. Everybody just feeling fine. Classes separated for department work. My class, the Second Intermediate was fine. I drilled them on Joseph Smith and the Book of Mormon. Gave them all something to do next Sunday. Meeting at night. We had most all sisters--three brothers including the Elders. I spoke 47 minutes on the Dispersion of Israel. Elder Anderson 20 minutes on the Gathering. Had fine spirit and two visitors.

NOVEMBER 2, 1914
Been trying to locate a building for Church purposes all day long. Finally found one. We asked the Lord to direct our minds and soften the people's hearts and surely he did. Going to try the New York House.

NOVEMBER 3, 1914
Tuesday evening we met Elder J. Leo Keller at the Depot. He is a new Elder coming to take Elder Anderson's place. Elder Anderson left for Indian Reservation, Fort Peck, Wolf Point, Montana, #181 to superintend the building of the Church. Elder Keller and I have been in search of a meeting place. Mission Hall 3001 Montana Avenue West.

NOVEMBER 4, 1914
Visited the people in the city looking for a hall.

NOVEMBER 5, 1914
Same story of hall hunting. Every man sends us to his next neighbor.

NOVEMBER 6, 1914
Elder Anderson left for the Indian Reservation, and is going to build a Church.

NOVEMBER 7, 1914
Been to the Mission Hall, 3001 Montana Avenue ten times for the hall. Finally succeeded. Been out telling all the saints.

NOVEMBER 8, 1914
Sunday morning to Sunday School and had a fine crowd. Some 30 members present. Went to the South side Christian Church. Big celebration. They tried to have a prohibition meeting and acted very uncouth some of them. He said there were anti-prohibition spies in the room and had been in each session today. We two were the only strangers there. They passed the hat and one man came and shook hands with us--Elder and I each gave them 20 cents. He got $1.00 out of about 20 persons--it made him mad, and he cussed us because he didn't get more. We had given him 1/2 of his donation and, then he called up spies. Elder Keller has been practicing on some stunts we learned there.

NOVEMBER 9, 1914
Monday. Been preparing for our trip to Worden. Went to Sister Crosbys. She is feeling fine today. Had a good talk to the little German girl. She asked a few questions,and we talked to her for 45 minutes. She said she wanted to be baptized. I told her to study a little more.

NOVEMBER 10, 1914
Tuesday we landed in Worden 23 miles east of Billings to visit the Miners. Found Brother Miners place. All the farmers are curious about Mormons. Elders talked good long while to some of them. Everybody tickled to see us. Found Brother Miner to be the real beginner of the of Indian Mission at Wolf Point six years ago while working in the reclamation service. He asked for Elders and made many friends with the Indians.

NOVEMBER 11, 1914
They hated to see us leave today. Came home wrote letters--had a letter--choir practice.

NOVEMBER 12, 1914
Thursday. Studied.

NOVEMBER 13, 1914
Studied.
NOVEMBER 14, 1914
Studied and cleaned the Hall for Sunday School. President Mitchell is coming.

NOVEMBER 15, 1914
Sunday. Sunday School was organized here this morning. President Mitchell came to visit and gave us some very encouraging remarks. Had a fine time. Twenty seven present. To Sister Eyres for dinner. Ransoms for the evening.

NOVEMBER 16, 1914
Monday. President Mitchell and I went to see Sister Lloyd and family. Then after supper went to Sister Hansens. Had a little jollyette.

NOVEMBER 17, 1914
Visited Eyres, Coxes, etc., etc. Went to the picture show. Came home and had an argument on wild oat sewing. Some feelings I guess, before we quit. Sister Lowe got off her handle--called me a little angel: poor simp.

NOVEMBER 18, 1914
Feeling like stewed cabbage today.

NOVEMBER 19, 1914
President Mitchell made a special trip to the depot to see when the train left. He made three trips to the depot to catch the train, but missed it each time so he spent all day with us, and we had a rough and tumble.

NOVEMBER 20, 1914
President left this morning. Been pressing and cleaning clothes.

NOVEMBER 21, 1914
Saturday. Studied in forenoon and had my shoes mended while Elder Keller was preaching authority to a Protestant.

NOVEMBER 22, 1914
Sunday school. Brother Cox started the thing. Then Brother Lundwall came in and finished. We surely had a fine time.

NOVEMBER 23, 1914
Been studying, firing tracts, visiting saints, etc. Brother Coxes this evening.

NOVEMBER 24, 1914
Started out tracting this morning. Elder Keller's first trip. He took right ahold of his work and surely did fine.

NOVEMBER 25, 1914
Been tracting again. Left 118 tracts. Am feeling a little better tonight--have been eating too much meat and was awful nervous. Spent the evening with Lowes fiddling on the violin, etc.

NOVEMBER 26, 1914
Thursday, Thanksgiving Day. Dinner at Sister Eyres. Show in the evening with Eyres.

NOVEMBER 27, 1914
Friday.

NOVEMBER 28, 1914
Ready for Sunday in every particular.

NOVEMBER 29, 1914
Sunday School was a little late in starting, but had a fine time. Next to a street meeting and then to the Presbyterian Church. Heard a sermon delivered on the Prodigal son. Did fine only never said anything and quit before getting started. Blessed the contribution box and the show closed. Elocution and no inspiration.

NOVEMBER 30, 1914
Monday. Fast day of November 1914. I fixed our roll books and then tracted some in the depot. Spent evening fiddling at Lowes. Colder than lizards and no fire.

DECEMBER 1, 1914
Tuesday. Tracting in the forenoon. Studying and visited the Eyre and Crosby families in the evening. To a street meeting of Mission people. Then went to the Mission hall and listened to their services. They asked me to preach, which I did. Everyone was saying amen, hallelujah, glory to God, thank God for such a testimony, and I branched out on reorganization and finally telling them I was a Mormon Elder. They nearly had an uprising, but I quit and they called meeting to a close and a fizzle. On arriving home and explaining the evening services, met with disapproval in Sister Lowe, which led to a little discussion, and finally she flew the roost and explained to my satisfaction and understanding that I should be home herding pigs where I belonged instead of working as a missionary.

DECEMBER 2, 1914
Tracting and looking for a room in forenoon, studying and letter writing in afternoon. Meeting at Sister Sorensons. Five present.

DECEMBER 3, 1914
Went to find a room and really think we found a better one. Tracting this afternoon and had half hours talk with Sister Lowe, and she cried like a baby. I think her conscience hurts her pretty bad. Our little differences of opinion came out OK and all feeling better for having had it I think.

DECEMBER 4, 1914
Packed our cases and landed at the new room. Elder Keller fell on the porch like a bag of sand.

DECEMBER 5, 1914
Fixed our room up

DECEMBER 6, 1914
Sunday School was pretty good--a few new members. Dinner at Sister Eyres.

DECEMBER 7, 1914
Snow this morning --the first so far. Looks pretty bad.

DECEMBER 8, 1914
Left a few tracts at the depot and helped Sister Meeks on train.

DECEMBER 9, 1914
Still cold as blizzards.

DECEMBER 10, 1914
To meeting tonight at Ransoms. Meeting at Sister Hansens.
In Room --didn't do anything.

DECEMBER 11, 1914
Cold as "ell" and still freezing. To show.

DECEMBER 12, 1914
Bid farewell to Eyres family. They begin for home in Lovell, Wyoming in the morning.

DECEMBER 13, 1914
Sunday. Sunday School--20 present--cold--dinner with Greenleafs.

DECEMBER 14, 15, 16, 1914
Hibernated!!--20° below 0.

DECEMBER 17, 1914
Moved housekeeping to Goldust Block.
Met the Sister and her young daughters, pretty nice stuff.

DECEMBER 18, 1914
Been straightening around for new start.

DECEMBER 19, 1914
Elder Keller and I went to dinner, then to Sister Greenleafs, but she wasn't home, so Elder went to the library and wanted me to go, but I wanted to go shopping. I started and intended to go three blocks north, but something was leading me up Montana Avenue, and before I realized, I opened the door to the depot. I saw a large middle-aged man standing by the heater, and he saw me. We both grinned clear across the house. He immediately came over offering his hand asking where we had met before, and asked my business. Of course, I explained to the best of my ability. Telling him my business had quite a sour affect. He began inflicting his persecutions talking loud--finally we had gathered a pretty good crowd. He finally pinned me to polygamy, and everyone laughed at his jokes about it; and gave me lots to think of in 20 minutes. I let him tare, and when he had done, I asked if he had done his best. "Yes." I asked if he was a Christian. "Yes." Do you believe the Bible to be the word of God? "Yes." Do you think Jesus was the Christ and the Redeemer of man?. "Yes." Do you believe you are of Israelite descent? "Yes." Do you think any of God's greatest men were polygamists. "No." I sighted him to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, David, Solomon;, and God's people most choice were polygamous children. Jesus was of Jewish descent and came through that lineage. You can see be reading Matthew 1. He lived and worked among polygamous people all of His life, yet He said nothing against polygamy and never condemned it. I compared it to their view point of lust of flesh showing him existing conditions in world. Everybody's eyes bugged out at me. You were setting your little finite mind against God's infinite mind.

Then I got a chance to explain Church government, how our proselyting was carried on, etc. Work for the dead, sealing, etc. He asked, "Where were you schooled for this work?" On the farm and in cow camps. "How long have you been studying?" Twenty-two years. "How old are you?" Twenty-two years old. "How long have you been out?" 6-1/2 months. "What are the conditions of your family at home?" He has a family and said he was willing to do anything he could on earth for them and to have possession of them in eternity. And strange thing was, he said, "Lad you have taught a man something today he never thought of before. I am a Traveling Lawyer from St. Louis (on his way to Portland, Oregon). I have been President of the Lawyers Assoc. for 7 years and a minister for 25. I have traveled the world over and studied the Bible from cover to cover many times, and you have me blasted." No, I haven't. You have me on some things, but I believe I have something to help me understand scripture better than you. "What is it, I am after it?" The Holy Ghost, and a discussion followed--2-1/2 hours all told. We parted dearest friends. The Lord moves in mysterious ways in helping us. I had no idea of going to the depot when I left.
Supper at Sister Grongs.

DECEMBER 20, 1914
Sunday School was pretty good--little more money. Dinner at J. H. D. Cox. Visited Edgars.

DECEMBER 21, 1914
Sick.

DECEMBER 22, 1914
Pressed clothes at Sister Greenleafs. To Lundwalls.

DECEMBER 24, 1914
Left for Lovell, Wyoming at 8:00 and landed 11:45 a.m. Everything OK in Lovell.

DECEMBER 25, 1914
In bed all day.

DECEMBER 26, 1914
In bed.

DECEMBER 27, 1914
In Sunday School, Priesthood--talked to the boys. Talked to the young people in afternoon for 30 minutes.

DECEMBER 28, 1914
To show.

DECEMBER 29, 1914
To Cowley. Got blessing from John Eyre and saw the Crosbys and Willises. Dance in Lovell-- met some Brimhalls.

DECEMBER 30, 1914
To Cowley to dance, danced six or seven times--Maud and Myrtle are cute kids--Cousins, met Irene Willis, and Sye Willis--relatives.

DECEMBER 31, 1914
Visited Willises and one of Uncle Sye's boys brought us to R.R., knew Irene's in Arizona. We left for Billings. Johnsons tickled to see us come home. Lots of members.

JANUARY 1, 1915
Wrote letter to Mae and have been writing ever since, not doing much.

JANUARY 2, 1915
Saturday. Reports and letters--to Sunday School.

JANUARY 3, 1915
No Sunday School. Met a Josephite man in our hall and, of course, he fed me a little taffy on polygamy. I am getting pretty good on this question.
Last night a Mrs. Smith came to see Mrs. Johnson, and when she found I was Mormon, she came to my desk where I was writing and said, "I heard you were one of those Mormons." Yes, Mam, I am. "Well I am a spiritualist, and I want to ask you a few questions." All right. "I heard that when the Mormons came West, Indians killed all the men off so they started living polygamy." And of course, I corrected her then she gave me a few jabs and I gave her plural marriage galore. Finally drifted to Godhead. She did not think Jesus's spirit reentered his body, but still believed in the resurrection and everything. All my talk and explanations were questioned even to unbelief. I told her God is a man and has a body: Whoop-a-law. She says,"The spirits says for me to believe some things you say and to disbelieve others: Oh, I wish someone would come to my mind and tell me of God." Well madam, that same small voice dictates to my mind that you are erroneously simple. She began rubbing the side of her head, twisting, squirming and pulling faces for nearly five minutes in an endeavor to call up spirits, but finally had to give up and said, "You're the first person I have been unable to work on. When she left she said, "Young man, you are almost a spiritualist. You would make a splendid medium." I laughed and said, "Well madam, (not wanting to be out done) you would be a jolly fat 19th wife. There was laughter from the crowd.

JANUARY 4, 1915
Little tracting in afternoon and to show. Master Key:

JANUARY 5, 1915
Up to Lloyds and found and blessed a Christmas baby boy--all pretty well. I named him. Played phonograph. To skating rink, and post office and home.

JANUARY 6, 1915
Made $3.00 by visiting Sister Samson today. Had supper, surely fine. Restaurant's food gets pretty stale. Made a few purchases. Coat for $7.00--skinned fellow about $7.00.

JANUARY 7, 1915
In bed with me eyes all day: Yep.

JANUARY 9, 1915
Studied.

JANUARY 10, 1915
Letter to Mae and to skating pond. Coxes home and met a few people. Spent evening singing. Decided to learn piano, so took my first lesson. Kept on until I learned three. Think it is going to come easy for me, maybe. Going to try anyway.

JANUARY 11, 1915
Practiced piano lesson and talked to Elder Keller on Creation, Adam and etc. Adam came from another planet, and earth was created or organized out of material from other lands known as earths.
To make master key in evening. Home and had a little sociable, number of friends came to see us. Had luncheon, then to bed at 12:00.

JANUARY 12, 1915
Studied music lesson, to post office and got present from Mae, a nice silk handkerchief. Home and made outline. Mr. and Mrs. Fifer of German descent came over and told us all about the war. They just came from Germany and told us everything they saw, and they, of course, can put up the German side to a fare-you-well. English got it in the neck. He has been on the battlefield and described to us all the guns.

JANUARY 13, 1915
To depot and left some tracts then down to Mrs. Harrisses. A lady friend came in, and we started on Sunday School work--ended on religion. We explained satisfactorily a number of questions, polygamy, Negros, and foundations of different churches. By their fruits ye shall know them. When we left she was planning to meet us again and bring some of her church friends to discuss religion with them. She said our talk was fine and she learned a good deal, and believed we were doing lots of good. She is acting to get her Presbyterian, friend who tells her all churches are wrong, out here to meet us--going again soon. Went to bed feeling fine at 9 :00 p.m.

JANUARY 14, 1915
Elder Keller has been feeling pretty punk today. Went to bed at noon and is still there. Clergy certificates came in today. Ogretta Johnson and I have been talking for two hours. Told most all of our experiences. I played or practiced my piano lesson.

JANUARY 15, 1915
Mrs. Smith, the medium came in and talked awhile on religion, and she said she didn't believe in God of body, etc., and said she was going to call up spirits and commenced talking around, but no spirits came. Everyone laughed at her fruitless attempts. She acknowledged she couldn't do anything and had no explanation.

JANUARY 16, 1915
Brother Farr from Salt Lake City, formerly of St. Johns, traveling in the interest of public schools came in, and we spent evening with him. Went to supper and a show.

JANUARY 17, 1915
Studying. Letters from Mae and Mary Palmer. A few visitors.

JANUARY 19, 1915
Held meeting at Sister Harris'. There were nine friends present. We talked all evening on religion. Mr. Harris was very interested.

JANUARY 24, 1915
Went to Sister Lowes and administered to Mrs. Spaldings little children. They both began to play and laugh. Went again next day. I administered to the little boy Robert, who had spent an awful night, and when I had done he called for his shoes, got up and walked around. Elder Keller blessed the little girl, and we noticed a like change in her. She was too young to walk but felt fine. Both well now.
Went to see Sister Dirby. She has turned Christian Science. I started to talk to her on different things. Finally, she brought up religion and asked a few questions and we carried out our intentions. We turned loose, and gave her some good ideas. She turned white, shook all over, got up and walked around. Finally sat down again and felt a little easier. We compared Mormonism and Christian Science for three hours. She gave us a book Science and Health edited by Mrs. Eddie, and I have read it through and corrected a good many things finding few good ideas. They don't go far enough in some things and then too far in others and summed up it equals a bunch of nonsense. I am going to try her again in a few days. Mrs. Eddie says that woman got the right over man to interpret the scriptures in the Virgin giving birth to Jesus.

We had a little meeting at our room. Mrs. Johnson, daughters, and Mr. McDonald had questions on spiritualism. We talked for awhile and got to hitting spiritualism pretty hard and Mrs. Johnson (a used to be believer) got awful nervous, got up and walked back and forth gritting her teeth, and finally ordered the girls go to bed, but they wouldn't go. They wanted more religion and just kept asking questions, which we preceded to explain 'till 11:45, and then McDonald got inquisitive, and we answered questions 'till 1:15 a.m.

JANUARY 25, 1915
President M.J. Ballard came in at 7:12. Had meeting arranged at Samsons. He spoke on Origin of Man and L.D.S. Love and Esteem for Jesus Christ. He said man was brought from another planet and their fall consisted of (Eve first) having eaten of the forbidden mortal food-- "Eve took of mortal food instead of immortal," and blood flowed in her veins instead of spirit matter. Change came on her in same order as worms eating green leaves, became green. Man eating too much pork is like a pig in nature. So Adam ate imortal food and obtained blood. There is food for mortals and immortals. There will be procreation in immortality. For many have no spiritual form of body as did Adam before the fall, so we shall give them immortal bodies. Man in the Telestial world can never go to the Celestial world, nor can any of the lower go to a higher world, but higher can go to lower. Adam and Eve had bodies of flesh, bones and spirit before the fall. The earth shall be the Celestial Kingdom. Sun is inhabited. Moon and millions of other planets. It will be as impossible for us telestial beings to inhabit the Celestial Kingdom as for us to live on the sun. All men will be baptized during the millennium except the sons of perdition. Spirits are hunting up genealogy. Man can loose his estate. God is the father of Jesus and not the Holy Ghost. The Holy Ghost overshadowed her. The righteous polygamist will earn more than a man of one wife; cause he has learned and sacrificed more.

It never snows on the coast, and the President had a little thin coat. We made him walk three miles in the snow, and he kept wanting to ride the street car, but we told him it did not go where we were, so he laughed about it and kept going. He will put up a big story to the coast Elders. Lundwalls for dinner. Then to Hopkins and the President dug out ten $ of him so we are now 20 cents OK. Went to Sister Smiths to see Sister Anna Hansen (a Mormon) and Mr. Graff married. They left and also President Ballard for West at 8:15. Nice there--it never snows on the coast. It has been snowing the last few weeks and for three days non stop and cold as blizzards--tonight, 18 inches of snow. Elder Keller got lost coming home. Elder Keller kissed the bride, but I could not reach so high. Slept on wedding cake and dreamed of -----, etc.

JANUARY 31, 1915
Went to Y.M.C.A. meeting. The Negro chorus was good--allowed applauding, etc.. During the course of events one fellow, tall and lean (pulled off a little stunt) arose and said, "Please arise." We all arose. "Now you have not had exercises for a few days so follow me." Put his arm straight up over head (Elder Keller followed) in air four times, then straight in front, then down by side--up to hip--straight up three times, fourth time on hip. He said, "Now let them slide into your pockets. Everyone's hands went into their pockets. Then he said, "Get two handfuls of silver and bring your hands out and hold them straight in front until the pans are passed." Tin pan was passed. Well, everyone being ashamed to bite like that, of course, held some money--cost Elder Keller $1.00.

FEBRUARY 2, 1915
Tuesday. I found a Reorganite and made him squirm a little. While standing on the library porch a middle-aged, haggered-faced fellow came up asking if I was a Mormon Elder. "Yes sir." Then he began throwing mud. Of course, everyone had to stop. Finally, I got a chance to speak and preached to the audience quite a spell, and then answered his questions--he was whipped, hooted and almost kicked out of the city. He twisted clear off the Library porch, and said he had an appointment (for an excuse). I followed him two blocks answering his questions.
Then had a bout with Sister Samson.

FEBRUARY 3, 1915
Wednesday. Went to Sister Harrises, and she said Mrs. Davis her friend wanted to understand a little of our salvation for the dead, so she called her up, and we had quite a visit. She crossed her self several times and I gave her a little apostasy, and she agreed to all of this, and as soon as I said all these churches are fragments of the Catholic. Yes. Consequently, they have no authority. She squawked now.

University of Utah and Billings B.B. teams played. All of Utah's were Mormons--Keller knew some. First half was good; got rough and quit quarreling. Utah beating 31-29. B.B.B.'s got angry and had to hold their coach to keep peace.

FEBRUARY 4, 1915
Thursday. L. M. Smith of Park City wrote and asked for assistance, so this morning we left for Park City at 1l:30 and landed at 11:15. The train running rather slowly. Elder Keller having never seen the Smiths went to the front door and asked for lodging and of course, was asked in. I went around to kitchen and when I was seen the joke was all off then. Each one feeling fairly well.

FEBRUARY 5, 1915
Friday. We shelled 1300 lbs of corn. We have been milking cows, shelling corn, plowing, churning, etc., etc.

FEBRUARY 6, 1915
Shelled 700 lbs. of corn. The good bread, milk, and butter is fine. Surely enjoying ourselves. Milking, churning, separating cream, reading, parching corn, and etc. Went to see Mrs. Mary L. Games one of our friends, who would accept baptism had she any means of support after her parents kicked her out--divorced and sick in bed. We administered to her and her son. She has been separated from her husband for his meanness. His rottenness has got into her blood. She has had several operations. Had all the blood taken out twice trying to get the poison out. She will have a hard struggle. Such men to poison pure women and their families is awful.

FEBRUARY 7, 1915
Sunday. I milked cows and etc. this morning. Fast day and am fasting. Went up to town in buggy, etc. and as usual everyone were rubbering at us. Surely a little country town. haha.
Our friends said they had their first nights sleep for some time. Both feeling better. We left for Billings at 6:29. Had little discussion at depot. The lady did not know much of clergies. Billings at 7:12. Our friends were glad to see us home.

FEBRUARY 8, 1915
Been writing all day--a few valentine cards. Had a ride in Zimeron's car.

FEBRUARY 9, 1915

FEBRUARY 10, 1915
Went out tracting today. Nothing unusual happened.

FEBRUARY 11, 1915
Tracting today. To Hopkinsons and then to Lowes. They seemed quite decent. When we left I made Sister Lowe help me on with my coat.

FEBRUARY 12, 1915
We started out tracting this morning each feeling something wrong, and after we got to our destination, we saw flags floating in the frisky breeze and snow, and we decided it was Lincoln's birthday. Came home and I wrote out an outline on Man. Bill McDonald came in and sat on our bed from 10:30 to 12:00 and told us his experience out survivaling. It was great. In his eyes he couldn't stay only five days. I would like to take him into Arizona on the Reservation and show him some country and rough life.

Brother John McIntosh from Burlington, Wyoming (an Elder of the Southern States) hunted us up telling us of his experience in the South. He brought his little brother to Billings for tonsil and adenoid operations. Later his mother and Sister Griffin came. Had quite a nice little visit. We had some very nice visits with these sisters, regular old chatter boxes. They get lost every time they get in the street. They are stopping in the Elniblo Hotel and the Great Northern and the Leghand--swell hotels. The lad is doing pretty well. To supper and a show. He is leaving his little brother here to be treated by an osteopath.

FEBRUARY 17, 1915
Never to be forgotten. We started out tracting yesterday afternoon and Elder Keller having been studying to some extent the reorganized side of religion and a few stories connected with his rather indifferent spirit has been quite a test to him and somewhat of an annoyance to me--not that I don't feel an interest in him, but that his attitude towards everything in the way of religion got skeptical and has been for some time, and I spent three hours convincing him. We sat on the sidewalk, where people were running past, and began discussing certain features of our work--finally he came out with the whole truth--he went through the whole rigamarole about like Laman or Lemuel's spirit. I expounded my views as best I could. He would not accept nor could he deny. Finally, he made up his mind to do something and left for the room feeling OK, and I began tracting with a prayer for him, and when I came in, I noticed a wonderful change in his attitude and really feel he is going to be more serious. Had quite an exciting time. Never had quite a pull--but Elder Keller is going to be a good missionary--one of their uncles, Elder Nickman, went home after one month and won't come back. He isn't very religiously inclined.

To Brother Coxes for supper, then big stories followed: A riddle. Bug, two before hind legs, two behind fore legs. When he sits down he stands up he does. When he walks he flies, and just before he lights he flies again. = The Irishman after a frog in the grass. The whipoorwill on the Irishman's tent X Golly gee Whollopee--

FEBRUARY 18, 1915
Out to Lloyds and while there got off on religion as usual, and I talked on my last outline, Man's relationship to Deity, for three hours. All were very attentive. Mrs. Lloyd is a use-to-be Mormon and Mr. Lloyd will be someday. They said I am the first Elder that dared to tell what I knew of Mormonism to them. I pity the rest of them. Really did them good as they need it. They said they believed in letting their children find out for themselves. I pointed out a few facts, and showed them the responsibility resting upon them in regards to family. They asked us back, and I thought my hand was going to be left there.

FEBRUARY 19, 1915
Tracting this morning and letter from home. Father cut me down to $0.00. I should have had 32 instead of $2.00. I really dislike to ask for more that I surely need, but guess I will not ask for it as I am just as durned independent in spirit as ever, but dependent as to money affairs here in the field. Will have to quit eating or sleeping pretty soon.
Out and bid Samsons farewell--going to Utah.

FEBRUARY 21, 1915
My back commenced acting up. I went to bed and no sleep all night. Monday evening Mr. William McDonald and Elder Keller took my temperature just for fun and found it to be 103+ and, of course, were quite scared.

FEBRUARY 23, 1915
Tuesday. I was working again.

FEBRUARY 24, 1915
Wednesday. Sister Eyre and Nellie came in from Lovell, and we went over the whole Lowe affair; The separate beds we occupied, they thought we sneaked out on them; and the glass of water I gave Elder Keller: They thought I did it unknowingly and was going crazy. He was wheezing [and I couldn't sleep], and I wanted to moisten his lips so gave him water and said here take this and let us get an even start.
They are trying to stir up some trouble by telling lies of we Elders. Such as I am immoral and losing my mind, etc. All for the cause of my telling them a truth. It fit them, and they didn't like it. I didn't know it fit them at the time.

In an argument between Elder Keller, Mitchell and I, I said if a man spends 15 years of his life in a saloon dishing out whisky to his fellow men and doing nothing, and another one was in school 15 years working hard, the man in the saloon would always be 15 years behind the school boy--it's an eternal truth and will stand as long as eternity. They got mad because it fit and dislike me and are trying to tear me and our Church down for some reason. I have no feelings against them, but only pity them. LB

FEBRUARY 26, 1915
Friday. Went to the Lowe home and had quite a talk. I stood up and asked them a few questions and then explained my stand. They said I insulted Dimple. I was, of course, surprised to hear such and asked how. They said I said, "I wouldn't have a girl that used powder." I had to laugh. It hit Dimple and she thought I was throwing it into her. haha: Poor ignorant people. Several other little differences like this--this being one of the main ones. I chastised Sister Lowe for talking to neighbors. She got angry at Coxes and Eyres for listening to her. They promised to let things rest and forgive. I have done my duty, the second time, and will do it again if necessary, but will tell them a few things. They will have to face me before the Judgment Bar if they do not be careful and try and do better. I think their heads will bow in shame, as they did the other night. God bless and help them to do and be better men and women.

FEBRUARY 28, 1915
Met Sister McIntosh and Sister Griffin from Burlington, Wyoming. Had a nice little visit. They are among the old and first settlers in Wyoming, and told us of some pretty tough experiences they had. Saints are doing fine in Wyoming now. Lots of fruit, etc., gas and oil wells. Seems climate is moderating wherever the Saints gather there. The Lord is and blesses them; water cursed and land blessed in last days. Seems fine to meet some good old solid tried and proven L.D.S.
Seeing Perils of Pauline. Fine gathering. Better all the time. Men--some of the Clifford boys in town. Going to visit them soon as possible.

MARCH 1, 1915
Young McDonnel, Keller, and I took a sunbath today. A rest of body, mind, and appetite.

MARCH 2, 1915
Studied forenoon. Went to see Mr. Rogers, a picture man, for Sister Eyre but couldn't find him. We went to Elniblo Hotel and spent a few hours conversing on gospel with Sister McIntosh and Griffen. Went from Adam to marriage in Latter days. I find they still have a few of old mistaken ideas concerning genesis of man. Informed Olof Lundwall of our interesting visit. We had supper with them. Kirk is quite a kido and Melvin is going nicely. I obtained Brother Lundwall's Mission diary and am going to read it. He was on a mission in Sweden--fulfilled an honorable one. He came to America, got in with apostates in Michigan, joined Josephites having a wife and family. He finally turned before death due to the labor of his sons Nelse and Olof. His wife still lives a Joshephite. One sister married a Methodist and is nothing but Methodist. Nelse and Olof often cry. They are large and are very tender hearted men when we talk of their parents. They are doing fine. By grace are ye saved through faith: and that faith not of yourselves; it is a gift of God. Eph. 11:8.

MARCH 3, 1915
Mrs. Johnson had us eat chicken dinner, with them. Ray and Ogretten have as much manners as we cowboys. Saw the Sister from Burlington. Read some in the Library.

MARCH 5, 1915
Went tracting this morning and a lady coon give me Hallelujah--Columbia. To post office and card from Lester. A fellow, Lovel by the name, asked me to read a letter for him. He was from Hills of Kentucky and had no education. Couldn't read nor write--33 years of age, so I read his letter. I felt sorry for him and wondered what he did all the days of his life. The smiling lady that came in the P.O. three times. Quite a strange incident. Got to explain the law of tithing, fast offerings, and etc. to Mrs. Johnson.

MARCH 6, 1915
Saturday. Filled out reports and wrote a letter to President Z. W. Mitchell.

MARCH 7, 1915
Studied all forenoon. Spent afternoon with Sister from Burlington, Wyoming and son talking on religion, etc.

MARCH 8, 1915
Studied and out to Lloyds--Spent the evening. Played baseball with kids a little. Elder Keller has been telling me of his baseball attributes, and we tried him out. He is fairly good, but think I could keep up pretty well. Talked religion, school, farming, etc. until 10+. Had a fine supper. To P.O. but fooled. Home tired out, but feeling fine. Both feeling some better. Lloyd needs to quit tobacco and will be OK for baptism.

MARCH 11, 1915
Thursday. We bought a camera and went down on the river and took a few pictures.

MARCH 12, 1915
Two years ago Mother died. Been writing to Mae and Aunt Ray B.
Some of Mrs. Johnson's friends came in from Worden. She was at May's. None of them would come home and treated them like dirt. We stayed in and talked religion. Had quite a time.

A letter I wrote home: March 12, 1915
Brimhall Family Billings, Montana
Taylor, Arizona

Loved ones,

Tonight as the waves of the ebbing day rolled over the city of Billings and spread out on their way, as the mighty sun sunk to rest behind the western horizon and threw forth its last rays of twilight--as the pale blue sky deepened into darkness, the same March wind that kissed my cheeks as it rolled from the pine clad hills in Northern Arizona in 1913--now swirled the drifting snow into my face, as I was laboriously plodding homeward after duty done.

Two years have passed--two summers with the length of two profitable winters--duty finds me the bearer of another message. Two years ago today, we as a family stood like a tree with bare boughs in a bleak March wind, a cloud hung low and made dark our way. For the voice of Mother was stilled. She sank to rest, her mortal mission done. She bid us farewell. No more our Mother shall we meet, till here all Mother's loved ones we shall greet, while heaven on earth shall dwell, to drink of wisdom at his feet, till times sad river cease their mighty moan, and "JOY" from zone to zone welcomes the rightful heir unto his own. If it were possible for our earth dimmed eyes to see just beyond the pale peaks of Eternity, we would see her with babes in arm, smiling her blessings and guidance forth to us.

There is never a night so dark that it shall have no dawn. Morn must rise and dismiss her stars. So we bless the day that Auntie graced our home. Eternal life demands selfless love, and with this father and his wives are blessed. They have sworn their love enumerable times by their rearing and teaching us, in those green valleys and under those green hills, sealed it with their kisses and watered it with tears. Eternal union will bring them Eternal increase.

Let us not be slow in recognizing such blessings, be appreciative, and when the crimson touch of life we feel, may our reflections not be of what were lost, but may they be of what we've won, and may the Lord grant: naught will be found undone. Here let us linger on our native hills--solemn and watchful 'oer our many opportunities.

YOUR LOVING SON AND BROTHER,

LOGAN BRIMHALL
P.S. Thanks for your kind, instructive letter and the money.

MARCH 13, 1915
Sent our reports in to headquarters. This evening we took a stroll and Elder Keller finally confessed he was connected to Mormonism. I was quite tickled to see his good spirit. Makes me feel that I may have helped him a little. We talked a long time on the atonement, plural marriage, and found one question in compendium page 227, second paragraph.
A gentleman came in and gave me five $ for Mrs. Johnson. He was floating in whiskey and and may some future date say he gave me more, so I wrote his name and amount $5.00 five dollars to be sure of my good name.

Seeing a piece in the paper, which is not common as every paper is lined with great heads, "The War", brings to mind that I haven't written anything or even alluded to the war, not because I am not interested in it though. Often, in fact night and morning, at Butte I read the bills posted in windows, even ours, also the newspaper--The Butte Miner. The greatest struggle ever known to humanity in a way of sword, gun, anger, and pillage (and perhaps less cause) is in full blast on the Eastern Hemisphere and has been since last summer. Nations professing Christianity are now involved in the most horrible devastation known to man (Christians?), flying at each other's throats like maddened beasts, tearing husbands, fathers, mothers, wives, sons and daughters cruelly apart. Virtue and wisdom disrobed of their blessings and flung at the feet of powerful guns--the youthful and promising blood of nations being spilled upon the mountain sides, in the valleys, and cities, while pride and bullheadedness sit enthroned recklessly throwing their sons blood away. Only the weak, maimed and blind shall be left to sire the generations to follow. Oh, Satan, great damnation shall be thy reward for having stirred men's hearts to this awful moment of bloodshed, etc. Yet, oh how true it begins to fulfill the prophesies of Old as the prophets have predicted this War, and I think famine and pestilence has only started on her destruction: America shall yet see in and by some means a mighty struggle against the monstrous, fiendish, hellish, and damnable heresies known to us as Catholicism--The Whore of the whole earth. The spirit of the Devil and nothing else is causing all this. We shall flood the earth with truth and finally overcome them, but many shall falter and fall. It makes my soul yearn for the Lowe family.

MARCH 14, 1915
Visited the Sisters from Burlington this afternoon. Rehearsed Ward teaching, some few mean stunts, etc. To the Presbyterian Church at 7:30. The subject was The Holy Ghost and the Day of Pentecost. The minister likened the Holy Ghost to wind, fire, and rain. Said we needed to throw away the old Religion and get a new one--I added "Amen". We need more Holy Ghost to come burn up our dead religion, to blow upon us as wind and descend as rain. He said we are waiting on the Lord. I poked Elder Keller in the ribs and suggested: The Lord didn't need waiting on. He was waiting on man (their Lord must be slow and clumsy). He quoted Ezekiel 37:1-14, story of dry bones and endeavored to make it some connection between this and the Holy Ghost, he couldn't see it was speaking of the literal Resurrection of man--which the disbeliever made quite a bad muss of this. Then he quoted Jno. 3-2-8. And Jesus said except a man be born of the spirit, etc.(omitting water)--he spoke of baptism of the spirit only. He spoke a little of Billy Sunday. He went on to show how the Holy Ghost blew into the baseball diamond, blew Billy into Christian ring of preachers, then grunted, "The wind bloweth where it list"tath" stress on "tath," blew him from some street corner into the minister. Elder Keller added that he looked like he had been blown into a barn head first. STORY: A certain minister was passing a saloon one day, and a man said, "Hey there pastor so and so, don't you know me, I'm the fellow you converted not long since." You look very much like my work! Pretty nice man, throws a little mud, puts on piles of style and elocution and shows considerable learning, but oh so horribly devoid of spirit. They tickle people's ears to get their hands in their pockets, and as usual twists the Bible teachings to suit his needs, so as to not hit people too hard. He gave us some literature. Each paragraph started with $ marks, or the Lord loves a cheerful giver. Guess he needs a raise. He blessed the contribution box and the show closed. Amen. Hallelujah!!!

MARCH 17, 1915
Tracted for a while. It is now 10 o'clock. Elder Keller and I have been wrestling since the landlady went to the show. We made dust and carpets fly. He is a pretty stout lad, quick and full of prunes. We made two throws each. Put it off 'till now.

MARCH 18, 1915
Letter from L. M. Smith this morning asking us to come over. They are sick. Our rent is up, so we have been packing up all, afternoon joshing, and etc. prior to leaving for Park City. At 5:00 while we were in the midst of it all a lady called to see us. Found her to be Mrs. Spaulding, Sister Lowe's daughter-in-law. First words, I could see something was wrong. She said she wished she was in dear, old Utah, then she followed her true convictions in regards to the Lowe family and reiterated all the happenings in the Lowe home. Had a general tear up today. Mrs. Lowe had had a fit, and she cursed all Mormonism, the world, and Elders today. Have been having trouble all the time. Mrs. Lowe and Dimple are treating her like they did me, thinking of every little thing in the world and throwing it at her. Mrs. Spaulding was formerly married to an L.D.S. man, had some children by him, and some by Spaulding. Mrs. Lowe accused her of not loving Van's children as the two older. Van she said left Utah in a drunken state on $100.00 and went to Idaho and then came to Billings, Montana and went into a restaurant washing dishes at $20.00 per month. She, Mrs. Spaulding, says he had a fine chance in Utah. His father Mrs. Lowe's first husband gave him land--160 acres, and he had four good horses, etc. His father pulled him along till he got tired. Van is no manager and kept getting into debt. His Dad got tired of helping him and said he must go on his own hook. Van grew tired and left there last spring. Tried to sell his farm. Got $100--left his family. Mrs. Spaulding worked all summer selling their farm and horses, put everything in her own name at l0 years time, and is going to make Van prove himself to be a little something. I don't think her love for him is very strong, because he has not proven to be anything--no manhood much--has not treated her right. Lowes thought she was going to come up here and give them a big boost in the way of money, but she was too smart for them. She has no use for Mrs. Lowe and Dimple, because there isn't anything to them at all, but a bunch of poison serpent-like flesh and bones. They can see but one side, and think the whole world rolls in a little circle around them and theirs. (I say damn such people). I think the Elders were a little hasty in baptizing them into the Church, and then they wore a rubber cap on their heads. I think they should have been held under quite a while, pulled off the cap and let the H20 rinse their narrow brains. They have done nothing but find fault with somebody, since I came here. Such are on the high road to apostasy. It is 10:30, and I feel sorry for those people.

MARCH 19, 1915
Yesterday we packed our grips and had a jolly good time. This morning I asked our landlady, Mrs. Johnson, what we owed her for last nights lodgings. She said nothing and gave us our breakfast besides. When we left tears trickled down her cheeks, and she told us to come and stay with them for a week when we go back free of charge. We landed safely in Park City at 11:10 a.m. Through mud and snow from depot to Smiths. Our grips weighed some 70 lbs a piece. A gentleman came along in a one-horse buggy and hauled them for us. Brother and Sister Smith feeling pretty bad. Their daughter-in-law is preparing to leave in the morning. We have had the team hitched up all day. Two trips to town. Last time I had quite a time with the team. The limited came in, and I had the horses facing the train. They began rearing, pitching kicking, etc. I swung them in a circle, plied the lines to their flanks and brought them up facing the train still pitching. People pulled off their hats and thought me gone. For, ah, they didn't know I was an old hand. It was all fun for me.
We --"I" baptized Raymond Ephraim Smith in the Big Canal. The water was cold, mush ice floating down. Cleaned two stables, milked cows, etc.

Raymond Ephraim Smith born Grey Bull, Wyoming, Father Arthur C. Smith and Mother Amanda Stout--Born October 6, 1906, Grey Bull, Big Horn, Wyoming--Baptised March 19, 1915 by L. Brimhall--Conf. March 19, 1915 by J.L. Keller
Ida May Smith--Born August 29, 1913, Grey Bull--Blessed May 19, 1915 by L. Brimhall
Edith Smith--Born December 6, 1914, Blessed March 19, 1915 by J. L. Keller

MARCH 20, 1915
This morning at 6:00 we helped Sister Smith and children to the depot. She is surely slow. Been cleaning yards, raking weeds, and hauling manure. We hauled off loads of dope. Elder Keller raised two water and one blood blister. He preached a sermon to the chickens and pigs. He begged off on milking--said he couldn't. While I was milking he came out to the hog pen. The fresh morning air was very invigorating. He, thinking no one was around, walked to the pig pen and said to a collection of hogs and hens--"believe I'll preach you a sermon." He began, "My kind friends I come here to feed you, not swill but spiritual food." And really I think I heard him deliver the best discourse since we have been together. After some 20 minutes he said, "My dear friends, I can't be with you always, my business is rushing." I was too full to keep quiet, and I blurted out, "Where are you rushing off too?" Well, he could have been swallowed up, and he would have felt OK. "Never mind old boy, one that can make a hog crouch down is prepared for anything." And then I had to laugh. He made me promise that I wouldn't tell anyone. I did, but didn't say I wouldn't tell everyone.
Went to the depot to meet Sister Greenleaf and children.

The cold, grey day died sobbing on the weary hills, while bitter mourning on the night-wind rose and fell.

MARCH 21, 1915
Brother and Sister Smith both had pretty, good nights rest. Everything going fairly well. Cows increasing in milk. Went up on the rim and took some pictures. It's pretty nice up there--pine trees, etc. Went up an old rustler's trail. It affords one quite a rest to stroll o'er the farms, breathe the fresh spring air, milk cows, feed hogs etc.--quite a healthy change from the crowded city streets.

MARCH 22, 1915
Monday. Handled manure, plowed, etc. Had a grey and bay horse. The grey is real firey and old Bill slow as can be. Plowed a few rounds. Old Jim would run off, and I went and held him down, and he balked. He tried to turn the outfit right side out and outside in. I gave him a biff on the nose and a few in the soft part of the flank, and he stepped off quite lively. He has Brother Smith scared. He, Brother Smith, wanted me to turn him loose. I gave him club pie and kept going. Pretty good pony now.
Several people came in, and we had a few Gospel conversations. Been having quite a time in every way.

Mrs. Dirby is here and, consequently, we have some interesting discussions on Christian Science. She is as stubborn a woman as I've met. She tries to defend Christian Science, but we cover her on every turn. She said there was no opposite to good that was real. Nothing had an opposite that was real. I asked if white had an opposite--(blush). Then proceeded to show that everything had an opposite. She says there is no sin, and admitted that everything had an opposite. She admitted some men do sin, such as men profaning, carousing, saloon, etc. She said that isn't spirit that's matter or man that sins--not spirit. I said, "You said spirit can't sin--you said there is not an opposite to good, but you admit that man can sin. Is man opposite of spirit?" Yes. "Well sister you cornered yourself again."--blush. "You say spirit is love and love is God and God is love and love is like the wind and isn't any thing. Well sister, is that what you say, that wind isn't anything?" Yes. "Don't you know that wind is air or atmosphere and composed of gas or gases and has causes, (heat and cold) for rushing over the country as we heat it and see the dust particles carried by it?" Deepened blush--ah-hem. "You say matter doesn't think. Well sister, greater minds than yours and mine tell us our brains are made up of cells or grey matter and our minds of fine nerves and here, in connection with spirit (which is only refined matter), we do our thinking and deciding, planning and scheming." Good night Elder Brimhall," she said. Elder Keller sat up till 12:00 o'clock several nights talking to her. She thinks Mrs. Greenleaf, her sister, shouldn't spank her children at all. They had a heated quarrel last evening, so we went to bed with no supper. Everything going fine this morning. Took some pictures of the little twins, Alice and Aline.
Myron Smith from Wyoming came up. He is 10 years old and I'm going to baptize him soon.
Old cow climbed in the manager last evening. I had to knock the barn down to get her out. Sister Smith came near dying and asked to be administered to. She went to sleep and rested fine.

MARCH 26, 1915
Friday. It snowed all day long.

MARCH 27, 1915
Saturday. In the morning Brother Smith asked to be administered to. Elder Keller did the anointing and I acted as mouth piece. At every word I felt my strength leaving. I said, "Thou shalt arise and be made whole." Those words came from somewhere, but I knew not where. When we had done, I was so faint and weak my knees came together, and I had to lie down. Got so weak I could hardly wriggle a finger. I commenced wondering if we had abused any of our authority, but couldn't see wherein, unless in those mystic words. Brother Smith arose, walked to the kitchen by himself, then up a flight of stairs to a bed--slept a few hours. That afternoon he hitched his team, which he had been unable to do for many a day, and drove us to the R.R. station. When we bid him good bye the tears came, and we all felt to rejoice. Has been a good testimony to us all.

His daughter, Sister Greenleaf and her three children came with us. She has a pair of twin girls, two years old, and a little boy all the same size. When we landed, by courtesy, I was wheeling the double baby carriage for her up the crowded streets of Billings with all three children in the buggy. Elder Keller and Sister Greenleaf being back, and finally I lost them, but knowing where they were going, I had to make the best of it. When I came out on Main Street, I met a few people I knew and, of course, they blushed for me--never knew I had a family. People stopped me every little way asking such questions as how old are they? Everyone giving me faces of pity, happiness, success and plenty to do. Nearly every third person asked if they were triplets. "Yes." My, how they do resemble their Daddy, haha. "Oh, do you think so?" Where is their mother? "They haven't any, the poor children." Of course I had to meet the occasion at times by saying, "Yes, they are triplets, their mother is shopping, they are all two years old." My how they resemble their Daddy, aren't you proud of them? "Why should I be?" Where do you live Mr.? "We live in the city--on Main Street and Baby Avenue--haha." One fine looking fat lady came up--I must of had rather a sad look on my face, "Well, well, and their mother is dead. Can't I be a mother to them?" I said, "No thank you sister, one wife is enough for anyone." Everyone laughed and the lady colored and said, "You're real mean. I meant couldn't." Oh, yes madam, we know what you meant, but they must not be reared on a bottle. Laughter, and she passed on up the street. I felt quite relieved when their Daddy relieved me of the perplexing job at his office.

We found everything in Billings in pretty good condition--lots of mail. I read a letter from Dicie announcing her and Elwin's tragedy. It surely surprised me. Never had a greater surprise, for it has only been few a months since I read their plans of a happy future. They may come together again someday in the future. The Lord only knows. I hope they both act the wise part.

MARCH 28, 1915
Sunday. We took Sisters McIntosh and Griffen and another to the Presbyterian Church. The minister preached on obedience. It was pretty good. He said don't go anyplace where you cannot ask Christ to go with you.

MARCH 29, 1915
Monday. Surprised to find snow falling this morning. Has been miserable all day. We went to hospital to see Lester McIntosh. He has been operated on for tonsillitis. He came near bleeding to death, but is pretty near in a safe way now. Met a Mr. House--he had been operated on for rupture. He is a jolly fellow of 19 summers. We told him what we were doing. He and Lester are in the same room--each $2 per day. Saw most of the nurses and several patients. Saw two foreign women that had been shot by one of their husbands. He killed one man, crippled these two women and shot at his brother-in-law. Just as he stooped to get a 22, the kid shot him in one eye--killed him instantly.
Got a letter from our Indian friend in Lodge Grass, Montana, and he wants us to give him a song book now (we sent four Books of Mormon). Surely a gabby tribe, even if they are of Israel. I may have the privilege of working among the Lamanites, as I have a peculiar feeling and warmth of heart and soul to themwards.

Mrs. Johnson and daughters were tickled to see us again. We had two invitations to Sunday dinner--promised one, but as soon as we came in Saturday, Mrs. Johnson killed her chicken, so we postponed the other.

MARCH 29, 1915
Started out tracting this morning at 9:00 o'clock. Had a pretty good time. To P.O.--letter from R. M. Stewart. He was as humble as a cat this time. He rather stepped on our toes last letter. I wrote him a friendly, nice, but very independent letter. It did him good. He tried a letter to show his authority, but found us not asleep. Went to H. B. Smiths for our song books. Very cold reception--stayed but a little while. Went to Lowes to get others, but found they have moved.

When we came to our room at 9:00, we found two mediums of spiritualism anxiously awaiting our return. They came in this evening to hold a meeting, and asked us to join their circle (they always have a circle so the spirit can operate easier, they say). We accepted, and they turned all the lights out save one little globe, then sang "I Need Thee Every Hour." She, Mrs. Coon, a lady of wide experience in spiritualism (15 years) explained the foundations of their beliefs. She spoke a good deal and said nothing. I asked the Lord and so did Elder Keller, to not let any spirits come (we offered silent prayers). She tried to get under the influence of the spirits, and made as though she had and began teasing an old man of 73 years by trying to describe a certain spirit standing by him as being his dead wife, etc., etc. She described her cap, but not correct. She gave him a few more things, (telling him to not work any more), but he only answered no, you're mistaken, she never dressed that way, etc. Well, she has changed since you saw her. Then she turned to me and said, "Mr. Brimhall, there is a young man standing by your side, fair complexion, blue eyes, beautiful dark hair, parted on the right side." She said he died when I was 15 or 16 years old. We were very dear friends, and he told me to go on in my good work, etc. Then she saw a beautiful girlfriend standing beside me. She loved me very dearly at one time and is still in love with me. She died when I was 17, etc. I said I had a cousin die when I was twenty, and he was sick four months instead of a very little while. He parted his hair on the left, and it is as stubborn and white as mine. He had grey eyes and as for the lady, I never had a girl friend die. Then she made excuses, and said they had come into my life since they died.

She gave lots of instruction and said there was going to be a great change in my mind and ideas. I was going to be a wonderful man, etc. Then she turned to Elder Keller and said the same things. She hit things as close for him--also Ray. The rest she had tried many times and, consequently, hit a few for them. Mrs. Smith had told her we were Mormon Elders, and most of their remarks were for our benefit, to try and get we Mormons to have higher ideals.

Mrs. Smith talked under what she called the influence for ten minutes. Her remarks were to me (I have had several conversations with her before on the Book of Mormon, etc., and gave her some literature including a practical Bible reference). Her remarks were all directed towards me: She began by saying "I see a book by your side--what do you call it?" I never answered, she suggested The Book of Mormon Yes, and doesn't the spirit tell you The Book of Mormon is true? She said, "Yes, the book is very true--it--a--has many truths in--hum--a--some things may be true--a--hum. You may keep studying it." I said, Wouldn't you like to read something true--say have you read the Book of Mormon? She gave no answer, "You are going to stand before large audiences before long." I had to tickle a little. I had told them before starting in on the meeting, that we were going to Conference at Butte in a few days, and Mrs. Johnson had told them I was quite studious, and that from the way I explained things, I would be a great preacher some day. I gave Mrs. Smith a Bible reference, and she has been using it.

I said, Say ladies it must be beautiful and inspiring to get under such influences. "Oh indeed, its beyond comparison." But say, do you ever tell or guess anything right when you are trying to tell all this? Elder Keller, haha. They were puzzled, perplexed, and half angry, but the pleasant smiles of all present and their knowledge of a complete fizz were against them, so they evaded the question, and asked if we enjoyed the meeting? Oh yes, indeed its, quite amazing to me to see just how little we do know of the Gospel and our different ways of conforming our lives and senses thereto. "Say you seem quite sarcastic." Well, I didn't mean to have been. You asked me questions after calling me a great man, and I deemed it my place under such prevailing circumstances to give you a broad-minded answer. "Don't you believe in spiritualism now?" Oh yes, madam I do, but it's in the same way the Lord believes in it, and you understand that part very well, if you read the references I gave you a few days hence. I asked if they didn't want to read the Book of Mormon. But none of them did. They would not give us time to say much. We gave them a few things. They left in an awful hurry.

I know they were under no influence except what they knew. They have been several times for all the information they could get of us, and then come and pretend to have spirits telling us such junk. In fact, they said nothing, only I was going to be some man. I hope I may be more than I am now, but spiritualism can do nothing for me. One truth from God is worth all the whisperings in Christendom of spirits through mediums. I know I am on the right road, that the Church of Jesus Christ of L.D.S. is the only Church God recognizes as his own. Well, we sat up until 12:30 talking to those who were left, preaching Mormonism to them.

A young man by the name of William McDonell rooming here at Johnson's has been provoking me the last few days reiterating a few anti-Mormon stories and would accept none of our explanations. He started tonight by saying, "I don't believe any of the things you have told me. You are too narrow-minded." I said, "I am not surprised at your disbelief and that you can't accept it all, Mr. McDonell, because it takes one like you many a day to let the truth trickle through such a crust as you have on your head. You don't believe and why don't you? 'Cause you haven't enough ambition to study and prepare yourself for such a position as you are prone to occupy--a judge. You won't try my theories, as you choose to call them, and try to disprove them for fear they would be right." "Well, Mr. Brimhall if you're right, why don't you convert ministers and congregations?" Because they are for the most part, quite like yourself, too thick headed to accept truth, because it comes from a Mormon, but still you cannot disprove one fact that is given you. Jesus Christ had a hard time convincing some people, and in fact, few people believed Him at His time, but proclaim Him the greatest man the world has ever known, the Savior of mankind, and the most Wonderful ever on earth. 'Tis the verdict of the ages that will prove truth, and it is going to be the verdict of ages that proves Joseph Smith a prophet of God, and his true relation to mankind shall be better understood. You might yourself accept of him and God's teachings. The time will come when you will have to do more than say, "I don't believe, 'cause you will have to tell why you don't, and you may as well commence learning either for or against. Mr. McDonell said, "I don't believe." He then turned the conversation by saying that when we sleep, our spirits wandered away--they left our bodies and drifted around to see what they could find. I asked him to notice the next fellow he slept with, and see if he was breathing when he slept. Sure he said. Well my friend, Don't you know that's what gives this body life--"Our Spirit." And when it leaves, we cease to breathe, and when we cease breathing, we are dead. The spirit needs rest also. It becomes fatigued, weary and worn, so why should it rant about when our bodies are resting.

Many of the others think we are pretty good at religion, and I find they have many Mormon ideas in their heads. They may someday see more clearly. The spiritualist Meeting, they said was a complete failure, and we knew it. Once more the Lord has answered our prayers and strengthened our belief and knowledge. LB

MARCH 30, 1914
Out to Lloyds this evening and had supper and called into Greenleafs to see the twins. All well.

APRIL 1, 1915
This is April Fools Day. We started out tracting, and went quite awhile before we were reminded of April Fools. In fact, I saw some people from early mass, and it served as a stimulant in causing my mind to think of April fools. Went to a pretty good show this evening.
Had supper at the Greenleafs home, then lunch at 11:00 before leaving.

APRIL 3, 1915
We met Sister Clifford and some of her children in the El Niblo Hotel. After tracting we held a meeting at the Lloyd home. I talked 35 minutes on Man's relation to Deity using mostly references and scientific proof. My argument taking up the three different theories of the genesis of life. There is no material matter, spirit is refined matter, and elements of nature and the composition to form the different physical and chemical--that we see in daily life. Showing some of my laboratory experiments in decomposing these substances finding the formula. For instance, one of my first was the decomposition of water, finding it to be composed of two gases thence one combustible and the other supporting the combustion, hence we get the formula H20= water. All of the different things we are surrounded with are composed in a similar manner, etc. all bespoking themselves of a higher intelligence than we have here on earth today--of a greater chemist than is known today--this wonderful intelligence is God, the God of Love, anger, mercy, justice, wisdom, etc. Hence a being of attributes and why not give him a definite form of which we are patterned after. Monkies, mules, cows, grasshoppers, nor cabbage heads will not answer the "?" What is this great intelligence. "God is Our Father, he sees and loves his image here."

We blessed the baby and called him John Arthur. He came December 25, Christmas Day 1914. Elder Keller spoke 25 minutes on what constitutes the kingdom of God, where is it found. He said to find the Kingdom of Heaven on earth we must find four things:
l. A King
2. A code of Laws
3. Duly appointed officers and people on whom to work those laws, etc. Then we answered some questions, all feeling well paid for coming out.

APRIL 4, 1915
Out to Lundwalls to say goodbye. Out to see the new baby gal in Mrs. "Johnson" Bakers home, mothered by one of her daughters.

APRIL 5, 1914
We left the city of Billings at 10:30. Landed in Park City OK. Brother and Sister Smith feeling pretty good. We washed our clothes, and Elder Keller baptized a little boy, Myron Smith from Wyoming. I had a turn at boxing. Elders arms are four inches longer than mine, so I had to jump up to reach his face.

APRIL 7, 1915
Wednesday. We started for Big Timber. Miss Grace Curtis, a young lady from Lovell, boarded the train at Colombus. Having met her some five months previous, did not fail to recognize her countenance and had quite a chat. She related all her family history--of course, all her love affairs and also that one of her sisters to be married Wednesday next, to a widower. Nothing much to him, but smoke. Chick is in Texas. She has found she can live without him. These young girls tell us everything they know. Curtises have moved from the Jarrett house to their own.
Stopped in Big Timber for the night.

APRIL 8, 1915
Thursday. We left for Bozeman visiting the Saints and finding everything OK.

APRIL 9, 1915
Friday. We trimmed Brother Lundwall's fruit trees, met lots of people, and they seemed to be quite interested in our work until we told them we were Mormon Elders.

APRIL 10, 1915
Saturday. Visited Sister Duff and found her full of facts she has not had an opportunity of relieving herself of. Also Hansens, finding them all in pretty good health.

At 3:15 p.m. we boarded the train for Butte. In riding down the Gallatin Valley we saw a number of cattle. Farmers at work busy in every direction, (this being one of Montana's oasis), and spring coming on quite fast. Some of the fall grain looked quite nice. We climbed quite slowly after leaving Logan climbing in and out over the snow-capped mountain peaks and crags, canyons and gorges to the tops of the mountains, stopping at nearly every station on the road--was quite a sensational ride. Finally our train reached the summit (a great tunnel) and commenced on the descending home stretch at pretty good speed, going through quite a number of tunnels. The city of Butte looks pretty lighted at night. The whole mountain side covered with light looks like a star decked heaven. Our train reached the O.S.L. Depot at 8 p.m., being an hour late on account of so many stops. All the Elders of the Montana Conference were awaiting our arrival. We were the last pair in. I was somewhat surprised to find President J. M. Savage of the Idaho Conference there. He has changed some in stature since his school days, but has the same personality and high ideals. Dad and Mother Smith had reserved a room for us, which we surely appreciated.

APRIL 11, 1915
Sunday morning. Priesthood meeting convened at 9:00, where we heard all reports from Elders--all were very good. Instructions from President Stewart and Ballard. At 2:00 p.m. President Ballard addressed us, and stated he must leave at 5:00 p.m. for Logan, Utah to be present at a funeral of a relative. We learned our assignments. Elders P. E. Anderson, Williams, and Hellstrom to the Indian Reservation to build a Church. Elders Denham and Keller to Anaconda etc. President Stewart, Hall, Dutson to Butte. Elders Brimhall and Lewis, Billings, and six counties north. Stress laid on the idea of country work. All supposed to begin May 1st and take a May day hike stretching over four months, yes, five months time. We'll see how it comes out.
He gave us reports of S.L.C. Conference. Some statistics 11,000 in Tabernacle 3000 outside, 2,500 in assembly hall. 11,000 Sunday School workers--largest Sunday School reunion ever held in world. Church spent during 1914, $1,887,920 from investments. To the poor $116,000 plus tithing to total $400,000. We support 20 church schools. To Canada Temple $152,142. We have 5 temples, sick in hospital 2,633, only 119 died, 48 were surgical. 85% of people in the Northwestern states are non-tithe payers. One fast day we gathered without cost $33,000 for the poor in the waring zones. Death rate in Church 8.3 per l,000. Average age 38 years for 1914, average for the world was 32 years. Infants dying before l year old in the world 20 per 100--in the Church of L.D.S. 5 per 100. Barely 25% of people in world clean and free from disease. 448 girls married out of the Church in 1914, and 145 men. 51% of the Church of L.D.S. are women and 49% are men. L.D.S. birth rate as the first child in the home of L.D.S. or practically first child of newly weds there were:
1 --Child 2,888 7 -- Child 520 13 --Child 25
2 --Child 2,349 8 -- Child 387 14 --Child 14
3 --Child 1,739 9 -- Child 243 15 --Child 6
4 --Child 1,490 10--Child 162 16 --Child 3
5 --Child 1,060 11--Child 87 17 --Child 2
6 --Child 808 12--Child 68

Sunday evening President Joseph M. Savage addressed us. He spoke very forcibly, but encouragingly for 12 minutes--bore a good testimony. Then came my turn. I spoke on the attributes of Diety and tried to show how the physical and chemical elements of nature bespeak themselves of a higher intelligence. There is a greater chemist than man is today, and inasmuch as man is greatest intelligence in his world, why not in others. Let us give that intelligence a definite shape, one that will do him justice--God, a perfected, exhalted man, and then my testimony. Elder Williams and Elder Warner spoke. Elder Warner is Lamanite, and Indian of the Shoshone tribe (Utah). Surely an intelligent and ambitious man. His early life was a little rough, but finally his "white" wife tamed him into the harness by giving him a Book of Mormon. He has a grand convincing testimony, and full of wit. He was released to return home. He is a man of some 190 lbs., short and heavy set, with a buttermilk calf stomach, but quite a winning countenance and carriage. He was once sold while a little boy for a goat, again for a horse and a sack of flour. He was captured by whites when two years old at Bottle Creek and was raised by a Mr. Warner. His hair is dark and straight parted on left side and hangs mattingly above a pair of piercing black eyes, a little bald spot on the back of his head in the crown, high cheek bones, his countenance is stern at times, but he is always jovial.

APRIL 12, 1915
Monday morning meeting in President Stewarts room on East Park Street. Visited Mrs. McTucker, Mr. and Mrs. Harris, 509 South Main--all glad to see us. Odger home also. She, Sister Odger, is married for the 3rd time. Elder Denham, Savage and myself visited the Rowe family, and we Arizonians had quite an enjoyable time, and had a picture. Rowes are all well. (President Ballard speaks very highly of Aunt Rae Brimhall, who is laboring out on the coast.) Some of our experiences as were told made tears and then laughter come.

APRIL 13, 1915
Tuesday. We, Elder Lewis, and I came back to Billings. Stopped off in Park City. Then Wednesday came to Billings.
Today while in Boston Cafe found Drewery Eyre and friend. I had my hair cut pomp. Rooming at 405 North 28th Street--on cold storage. Pretty well tired out. After coming from extreme high altitude of Butte to Billings, it caused us to sleep for several days.
Have been writing letters of inquiry as to baptism seekers and have a few coming up soon.

APRIL 18, 1915
Sunday. Our friends seem very glad to see us back again. I didn't know we had so many. Mr. Hansen and Drewery came in this evening. We went to Methodist Church--subject, Who are Saved. Rev. Mecklimburg gave no specific terms, just that those who gave their hearts to Jesus were saved, and all who did not were damned. Spoke of people being saved and lost. He forgot or is ignorant of the fact that all mankind is saved or redeemed from the fall by the atonement of Jesus, but not exalted, and that every person has a sphere and in that sphere he shall be saved or exalted as one chosen call it, however, few of the many will gain exaltation in kingdom of God in comparison. He narrated several little anecdotes, and is quite witty--each time I hear them "Rev," I can see the hollowness of the speeches more. Their singing was simply miserable. Elder Lewis and I can do nearly as well--haha. Home and talked on plural marriage for awhile. My eyes are getting worse I fear.

APRIL 19, 1915
We found Mr. Harris in his office and asked for some information as to baptizing Kate. Sure he said. I'll try and have her come in soon as possible from the ranch. To breakfast, then to visit Mrs. Spaulding, 313 South 33rd Street. This evening we went out to Greenleafs to bless their baby, Harry Bertrum. Had supper and talked of war etc. Gave them some Church statistics, in which Mr. Greenleaf seemed quite interested. We had fish for supper. Mr. Dirby came in, and we talked of days on the farm in Park City. We still have quite a time sleeping enough-- changing from high to low altitude causes the chargers almost go to sleep on the streets.
Logan Brimhall

APRIL 20, 1915
Studied most all forenoon, apostacy etc. Went tracting. I met an elderly French lady. She wasn't going to talk to me at first, but I kept busy, and finally, she came out on the porch and was telling me of her sick daughter, Emily. She got the tuberculosis when 8 years old and has been sick for 32 years now--blind, deaf and cannot move. Has running sores. I related some instances of our Elders healing on the Reservation by the power of the Lord--and when I left she asked me to pray for her sick Emily. The next lady slammed the door. I got out of patience and quit for awhile.

This evening after supper I suggested that we stroll on the south side of the city in search of some friends, Drewery Eyre and comp. As we passed the Pioneer Saloon on 28th Street, I noticed Mr. Lloyd cutting up quite lively with some friends. We passed on a little way and stopped behind a telephone post. I thought he was extra jolly. We finally saw he was under the influence of liquor, and his son Rexal, a lad of some 17 summers pleading with his father to go home. We had not seen the lad before, but he had seen us, and after a few minutes of reasoning, the poor kid grew heart sick and left his father to his fate. We went on and completed our errand, and when we came back at 10:00, he was still at the saloon. We walked up the street a ways and watched his manuverings. The reason being, that he had been thinking of being baptized soon. I was indeed surprised to see him in such a plight. He has a large family, and they have all been baptized. He, I suppose is taking the bread from the mouths of his children--poor man. He barely keeps body and soul together--nothing to live on--he has been idle all winter. He even tried to sell his hat, bicycle, and some trees he had for liquor. Oh, the awful curse of drink. Well, I can't help but see the Lord's hand in leading us that way, that we may see his condition. The Lord works in very mysterious ways.

Mr. Toothoker, a gentleman that wrote us a letter saying he was interested in our Church, and whom which we invited to our room, came in this evening. We had quite a talk. Aunt Rae gave him our address. She being acquainted with some of his friends. He is a Methodist and says Mormonism seems broader than anything he has found as yet. He is about 6 feet high, little bald in front, Roman nose, blue eyes, nice and clean in appearance, pretty well-educated and a carpenter by trade. We gave him Books and invited him again. Going to take a little hike Sunday with him.

APRIL 21, 1915
Tracting this morning. We took a 2-1/2 mile hike this p.m. Practicing for our country work and got caught in a rain storm. This evening we visited the Johnson family and had quite a hurrah.

APRIL 23, 1915
Went to the depot this morning and talked to a few. We have been taking (1), (2), (2-l/2), and (3) mile hikes getting hardened into the coming country trips. Breakfasted, thence up to the canal locating a place for baptizing. We sat down beside a large rock on the banks of the stream and sang, "Down by the Riverside, "God Be with you Till we Meet Again, and etc." Our voices sounded quite sweet and harmonious, we supposed, being as the water didn't change its course. The birds flocked around and joined in the chorus. Elder Lewis stopped short and exclaimed. Damn, if I don't think we shined the birds Elder. haha. I almost rolled into the canal laughing so heartily. I didn't know I was intruding on anyones right until a little red ant reminded me that I was sitting on a volcano. Then five or six more ants joined in the chorus, and I step-danced to the merry tune of their little stingers. Excuse me, I shall never try to convert an ant bed by my singing again.

APRIL 24, 1915
This evening we went up to Lloyds to get our candidate for baptism. The sun was pouring forth its mighty rays, and the persperation rolled off quite freely as we laborously plodded along over field and road up to the canal. Elder Lewis performed the act on the person of Wilford Isaac Lloyd, Born March 28th 1907, at Billings, Montana. I confirmed him a member of the Church on the waters edge, and then we came home making reports, writing letter to Conf. President, etc.

APRIL 25, 1915
Sunday. Mr. Toothoker came in. We talked on Gospel for two hours, then we took a hike to the park down by the river Yellowstone. Thence, up one of those little peaks and got a nice view of our valley here. He revealed to us the secret of his investigating. While in Washington he met a Mormon girl. Being infatuated with love, he proceeded to explain his feelings, and the lady catching the drift of his meaning, asked that he investigate and join the Mormon Church. Talked on principles all the way home.

APRIL 26, 1915
Went to Johnson home and had quite a nice time visiting. They seemed glad to have us drop in. Brother Miner came in from Worden, where he had been to settle some affairs. I went to depot with him and had quite a nice talk. I learned that his wife died last December 29th 1914 at Worden while we were in Wyoming. He had just taken her to Utah and had just came back. His telegram was to the affect. Childbirth being the cause. Such things must be. She was a fine healthy lady in November. Poor man. He feels quite lonely and well broken up. He has done a wonderful lot of Missionary work in Montana--has led a good straight forward life, and has many dear and influential friends here. For some cause they were not married in the temple, but has been trying to get arranged to that effect for 7 or 8 years, and now he asks me to write a letter to his Bishop in Springville, Utah. I met many of his friends.

APRIL 28, 1915
Went out to Hopkins and talked baptism and tithing to them. We got $5.00 and may be able to get the little boy in the water. He isn't very strong and easily irritated. Passed our good judgement on a milch cow--came home. Drewery and Harrises came in. We talked on most every subject of the day. Felt fine this evening.

APRIL 29, 1915
Talked baptism this evening but made little impression. Neither Harrises or Hopkins children will we get baptised.

MAY 1, 1915
Brother Ricks of Logan, Utah traveling in interest of the Utah Woolen Mills and a Brother Tanner from Three Forks, Washington looked us up today. He was in Butte last summer, and I enjoyed his good company there. He has a few of his ideas coming out in the Liahona under the caption "Along Nephite Trails."

MAY 2, 1915
Very cold and stormy this morning. Got a letter from President Stewart and Ernest Shumway. President Stewart said we had better leave, so we make haste and get out Tuesday. Brother Ricks and Tanner from Three Forks, Washington came in. We went into The Great Northern Hotel lobby and reiterated our several missionary experiences. Brother Tanner could tell some pretty good southern yarns, having traveled for the most part of his Mission without purse or script, and said it was the happiest time of his life. He had some very exciting experiences and a wonderful testimony. He gave us a great amount of encouragement.

MAY 3, 1915
Monday. We have been packing up all day preparatory to our leaving for Denton in the morning. Visited the Greenleaf family and had quite a time.

NEW LIFE!!!!
MAY 4, 1915
Tuesday. We, Elder Gerald E. Lewis and Elder Logan Brimhall, left Billings this morning at ll:45, it having been eleven months since I came into the field. We boarded a picturesque train (The Great Northern that runs north to Great Falls from Billings) propelled by the engine Abe Lincoln extracted the pig from the mud hole with. It was quite rough riding, and made me think of jumping logs horseback at home--one needed a stiff back and peaked head to stay on, riding out to our new and unknown field of labor, "Country Work." We have determined to do our duty and prove the Lord--He tells us that a way shall be always opened up, if we are humble and energetic. Rode some four hours and landed at Judith Gap at the lower end of the Judith Basin (part of our field) or more commonly known as the gateway to the Judith Basin. The Snowie Mountains begin at this point and run east north. The Little Belt Mountains begin at this point and stretch out west and north. After having ridden 5 hours and 30 minutes, we landed at Moccasin, where we waited 30 minutes to take another Great Northern train and run east to Lewiston. We had now entered the center of the lower Judith Basin and what a beautiful sight to ride easily along gazing from the car window. The country was busy as far as we could see--everything green and under fence--green stretches of grain on both sides of the track and as far out as we could see. Certainly a fine country. Most every farmhouse along the track showed signs of life and looked quite inviting to us. We saw many a place that looked like they were waiting for us in the near future. We came safely to Lewistown at 7:30, a city of some 3,000 people and supported by surrounding farms. Procured a room, ate supper, etc.

MAY 5, 1915
Landed in Denton, Montana, a point we hope to begin our work from and use as a sort of postoffice during the summer, by way of the Milwakee and St. Paul. My first ride in this railroad. The basin we find to be a rolling prairie, fertile and well-watered by rain, and from the way the wind is blowing today, well ventilated. Denton stands upon the prairie in the very heart of the Basin. Everyone in Denton, some 200 (have grown up in the last two years since this country was opened up) knew we were Mormons as soon as we landed owing to the fact they had been notified by the few Saints. We have here (some two months ahead). Saints all tickled to see us. One, Sister Horrocks, (lives one mile east of the depot) was swinging her hand (knowing by some means that we were Elders). Well, everyone came to see us at the Horrocks home, who weren't busy. We held three meetings from 9:30, time of our arrival until 12:00 p.m., and songs galore. Some of them came 8-1/2 miles to see us. They haven't seen (as they put it) a real Mormon for nine months and more. Most of them drifted in here from Wyoming, working on the railroad and intending to land in Canada. We have some seven or eight to baptize. Surely had some time of rejoicing. None of the Saints are very rich, but are all fine people, bless their dear souls. They have hearts as large as barrels. Stopped at Hammels.

MAY 6, 1915
We visited most all our Saints and held a meeting etc.

MAY 7, 1915
Friday--Farmer's Day. They came from far and near. Some big men from Minneapolis and St. Paul were here--interest of farmer's equity being the main cause of the gathering. They explained and tore the Grain Trust completely to pieces, showed the greediness of it, and gave us some very good information. We attended two meetings and then watched them dance. Every man his own step and hop--they bumped, bumped and hopped in their own style. Peculiar to mix classes of people ranging from claud-hoppers to very well-educated eastern people--Dagos--Bohemians, etc. They have a brass band here and make things buzz. The city is some 200 people, but several thousand in neighborhood on farms.

MAY 8, 1915
We have been meeting people by the wholesale and holding meetings.

MAY 9, 1915
Sunday. We went to the minister of Taylor Church this morning. After services I asked permission to give out notices. Surely he said. I informed them that the Mormons were going to have a meeting this p.m. at 2 o'clock. When I said this, people opened face and eyes, some blushed and others looked like they pitied us. At 2:20 our meeting commenced with 50 present and others came in later on. Had a real time of rejoicing.. Our singing was not bad. Elder preached some 20 minutes. My turn came soon. I preached on the first principles and gave them statistics of our Church, and talked 47 minutes. Everyone left happy. In fact, we all went to the ball game together. To Sister Shepherds for supper and talked baptism to her children. We are going to get three. One 18 - 14 - 10. Back to Sister Harrocks and sang till 12 o'clock. The Saints surely appreciate our presence and quarrel as to where we are going to stay and eat. We feel quite elated over our prospects, and the start we have made.

MAY 10, 1915
Monday. Five years ago today I was herding sheep in the cedars north of Show Low with a Mexican. Since then I have spent four years in High School and 11 months in the Mission field. From sheep herder to preacher--means quite a little sum. This morning we left the Horrocks home for the post office at l0 o'clock. Up to Mother Harrises for dinner, then at two o'clock we left for our first country trip with packed grips, and cheerful hearts. I can never tell my feelings, and only they who can enjoy the same experience will ever be led to realize. I wanted to go east of Denton, but Brother Harris suggested to go south. So trusting on our Lord and helper, we began putting it over the praire south to the nearest house, some two miles and found some people by the name of Irish on top of the hill--by the way we knelt down and had prayers in an old Buffalo Wallow behind a gentle swell in the prairie, with bared heads and trembling knees, we asked Our Heavenly Father to go continually before us during our country work and open up such ways and leave such obstacles as will help us to perform our duties. Our hearts much lighter, a wonderfully brighter luster of nature, we knocked at the farmhouse door. The gentleman said a hearty come-in and gave us a warm handshake, which were direct results of our prayers. We also met a little girl of some 17 years. She was as tickled to see us. The lady had been in bed for two weeks. In fact, she has been ailing for two years, and months since she walked--a nervous skeleton that shook with pains. We had the priviledge, of administering to her, and afterwards she slept quite peacefully. We left some literature and visited eight more homes. Only one, a blind lady, would not accept literature, and she consented to listen to our message. Met a Mr. Burns, a Catholic. We had a long talk with him, and as it began to turn night time, he gave us 25 cents and said, you may find a good place to stay up there at the next home. I laughed the lady into taking some literature and hearing our message. We had been traveling north for three miles now instead of the way we started, down where I wanted to go.

As the dusty sunlight paled into twilight (at 6:30), we knocked at a little red house (some three miles east of Denton)--Mr. Hesses home and asked for entertainment. The father was away. One boy 20 years old, two girls 17 and 16, and a brother 12. By 9:00 they gave us supper, but said they couldn't give us a bed. I suggested we sleep in the barn. They laughed and said yes, and seemed to be tickled. During supper we learned that the young man was teaching school nine miles north. We joshed them quite awhile. I find their mother died one month ago, and their father had left this morning for Lewistown. Well, we naturally followed the (Mother) thought explaining L.D.S. views on the same, and helped the lad milk the cows, etc. Then received an invitation into the house again. Their having an organ suggested the idea of singing, so we asked one of the girls to play, and we sang a few songs--then they all joined in. We had all kinds of singing and stories. Then finally, at 12.:10 after a good Gospel discussion, we were invited into the very best room -- gave us the best bed in the house--nice clean sheets and cases. Can I ever forget that little hollow behind the prairie's swell, those simple words, and God's blessings upon our efforts--Can I ever forget the lessons of this day. (HESS)

MAY 11, 1915
We left Hesses at 7:00 this a.m. going northward. Finally turned south and eastward--met a good many Hollanders, and saw for my first time, a pair of large wooden shoes, certainly a comical sight. We had dinner at C. G. Mitchells home where we had several interesting conversations. Fine chicken. A lady and a child, four men, plowmen. At 3:00 we started off down the road. Mr. Mitchell hitched to his buggy and drove us one mile on our way.

Then we continued our way across the rolling grassy prairies, over two little streams and through many an old buffalo wallow, up the bad lands--on the edge of the Judith River, crossed a little riverlet known as Wolf Creek, in which we enjoyed a foot bath, up to a Mr. Stevensens and talked to his wife. She gave us some chairs, and we talked until her husband came from the field. They were not interested in any kind of religion, but we had quite a jolly time. They asked if we had had dinner, but said they could not keep us all night on account of room. Tired and forelorn, but somewhat refreshed in body and spirit, we wended our way through a wheatfield some l-1/2 miles to Mr. J. H. Jones. We hit him just right and stopped here all night, and of course, having a good many discussions on Theology--a few on Religion. He took us out to examine his wheat. A bug or worm is eating it. After supper we went to see it. It's a little yellow worm eating on the roots and making way with it very fast, and I fear is going to do great damage. They fasten themselves around one root at a time and in every bunch of grain some three and four stocks are killed. He has a beautiful field of grain, knee high. Also his cottonwood trees, which have been planted for shade, are being eaten--the only trees in the whole basin. We advised him to go into Denton and get some white lead and spray his trees.

MAY 12, 1915.
This is Wednesday morning at 8:30. Mr. Jones left for Denton this morning. I am now writing on my knee and sitting on a rise in the prairie, while the field of Buffalo knats are enjoying a feast on pure Mormon blood. Every direction I turn, I see nothing but a rolling prairie--a broad plain and few houses lie between us and a small village by the name of Hoosac, where we intend to dine at noon. We also notice farmers with six and eight horse teams in several directions breaking the sod, and talk about grain fields.
We came across a home and knocked, and a middle-aged lady came to the door. I laid my business before her finite mind, and she turned and turned, then blushed a deep red color--turned pale as a white chicken, trembled, clenched her fist, and commenced screaming and cursing. I determined to talk to her. She said she knew enough of that damnable Church. I informed her with a smile that I was glad she knew something of our people and added, "You must be a real intelligent, broad-minded family to let a few Mormon stories enter your house." She felt a little better, and then began telling us stories of Brigham Young (of course). Then she did go lie. Commenced Brigham Young story. I laughed at her and said well-educated people even people of common sense forgot that stuff 25 years ago. I asked if she didn't think Brigham Young a wonderful character, then she did rave. She reached for the butcher knife and was going to slay us alive, but a smile turneth away wrath. She consented to hear our side of Mormonism, and I read some statistics and opened her eyes. She grew more interested and asking a good many questions. We talked three hours and left part of our load of literature.

Came on into Hoosac, a village of one saloon, one store, post office, blacksmith shop, a section house and a R.R. waiting room. Found a Mormon girl married to a Mr. Snow, the soloon keeper. Well, we being of different beliefs had many discussions, especially on the pre-existence. Before beginning, we asked Mr. Snow if he believed the Bible. Oh yes, surely. We poured pre-existence to him. We sat up till 1:30 talking on pre-existence. Well gentlemen, he said there are lots of things in the Bible I can't believe. You said when we started that you did believe in it. He colored up and smiled. He is pretty stubborn and somewhat ignorant. The poor girl is in misery--has no more love for him than for a crow that I could see. They have a nice little boy some three or four months old.

MAY 13, 1915
Arose at 6:30. We talked on a few subjects and a few points missed last night and left for the country at 8 o'clock. We had only gone about two miles when a man came out from his house swinging his hat--in a few seconds the air was split by "My, come quick! I know who you fellows are. I must feed you gentlemen. I met a pair of Elders in Pittsburg and they sold me a Book of Mormon, which I have read and by George it's all right. How are you anyway?" And he gave us the glad hand--a hearty shake. He said, "Come in and we'll have dinner in a few minutes. We met his dear wife (Mrs. Proctor) and little girl. He had read the Book of Mormon while in Iowa, Brother Alma Vance has been talking to him some. Well, we had a real time of rejoicing, and we ate dinner at 11 o'clock. He was in a hurry to catch a train for Lewistown and begged us to come again, so we decided we would make them another call in a few days.

We tracted the rest of the day meeting some very nice people. We climbed a little hill and could see down the other side some 2-l/2 miles on a little creek (Willow) a tent and house. Once again the sun sinks behind the horizon and leaves two (bared heads) kneeling in the twilight. Wending our way to the camp was no easy job--finally, we arrived feeling a friendly quiet in the very air we breathed, and surely, we found a hearty welcome into the Brother and Sister Vance family. We talked to the girls until 6:20. Brother Vance came in, and we had a fine time. While eating supper a great storm came up and streaks of lightening chased each other across the heavens and peals of thunder seemed to be playing hide and seek for quite a while--quite wildeey. Brother Horrocks and son came into camp at 10:30 and talk about joshin, we had quite a time.

MAY 14, 1915
Friday. Mostly too muddy for plowing or traveling, so we all stayed in camp and all hands gathered around--one interesting study of the Bible, Book of Mormon, singing songs of Zion, etc. All day long discussing plural marriage etc. to best of our ability until a late hour at night.

MAY 15, 1915
Saturday. We headed for Denton (cause being we had promised the Saints of Denton to hold a meeting Sunday)--some 13 miles by direct course, facing a cold, strong, northwest wind in the mud, but the greater part a knee-high grassy matt came in very handy. We arrived in Denton at 1:55 making 13 miles in 3 hours and 35 minutes. The wind increased in volume and velocity, until it took a good bit of strength to buck it. Tired and hungry. Saturday night we held a little meeting and went to bed.

This is my closing chapter of this book as I am near the end of the paper. I shall start in a new book Sunday, May 16, 1915. I have had some pleasure in writing down a few of these events. They may serve in later years as a sort of guide to my life as a missionary, of which I expect to make a more full account. Some of it I have written in haste and poor English on my knee as I am now writing. These few items if one can read them may be of little interest to some that may chance to read it.

[The following are notes that Logan had previously written on the last few pages of his First Missionary Journal.]

MILES TRAVELED--
R.R. for sporting - Tucson-Clarksdale ..........1,084
Home to Holbrook .......................................  ......30
Holbrook to S.L.C. ......................................... 1,l90
Salt Lake City to Butte.......................................397
in Butte..................................................................50
Anaconda - 25 x 2 = 50 - 80 cents

Breeding cattle
if Bulls wanted Breed in the morning
if Heiffers in the afternoon

L. M. Smith, Park City, Montana
________________________________________________________

BEDS

On train 1
S.L.C.
Aunt Samantha's 2
BUTTE
Ionas Hotel 3
Smith-Dad 4
Another 5
Mrs. McTuckers 6
Scessions 7
ANACONDA
Amers 8
Hugie 9
HELENA
Carrolls 10
Shaws 11
BOZEMAN
Hansens 12
Lundwalls 13
BIG TIMBER
Curtises 14
PARK CITY
Smiths 15
BILLINGS
Lowes 16

_______________________________________________________

ON THE BANKS OF THE OLD PUGET SOUND - Tune of The Old Apple Tree

The California quails were sweetly singing, Our Elders round the Puget sound did roam, The dinner bells at noon were ringing.
Though not for us as they did while at home. T'was there with grip in hand we slowly wandered, from early morn until twelve o'clock at night.
We plead with them to investigate the Gospel, and join with us in faith and see aright.

CHORUS
On the banks of the old Puget sound. Where the boats go sailing around.
With hearts that were true, we would walk two by two on the banks of the old puget sound.

2. Tis only for the love we have towards them, the desire we have to save the souls of men, that we are separated from our loved ones to preach the truths, glad tidings unto them.

CHORUS
On the banks of the Old Puget Sound where the boats go sailing around.
Like the Savior so meek, honest hearts we did seek. On the banks of the Old Puget Sound.

3. We never will forget how we did hunger, and yet our pleadings they were all in vain. Each one would turn us to his nearest neighbor, Oft times we wish we were home again. With faith renewed we'd ask our Heavenly Father to open up the way, that we might meet a friend, to take us in and give us shelter.

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