Frederick Ellis Barker's Scrapbook

We don't have Grandfather Barker's journal, but we have a copy of his "scrap book", as he called it, and we discovered it is a mini-life journal, for it contains his patriarchal blessings, and numerous poems and articles written over a lifetime. Many of them were published in various LDS magazines of the day. (Perhaps this is where his son, Clarence, got his interest in becoming a newspaper reporter.) Our grandfather is an excellent writer, and he showed through his writings that he was dedicated to the Lord and to his family, and it is wonderful to get to know him in this way.

Grandfather was born and raised on a farm in the Mound Fort area of Ogden, Utah. His father and mother, Simon and Jemima Barker, were both from England, and Simon was a pioneer of 1849. Young Fred caught the spirituality of his father, and he was called to be a recorder in the Logan Temple as a young man. But, he decided not to be a farmer like his father. Fred and his brother, George, aspired to higher paid employment. They bought a book on Isaac Pittman shorthand, and in the evenings and during the winters, they learned shorthand. They first traced the forms carefully, and then increasingly abbreviated their shorthand forms so they could write faster. (A & C)

Fred liked to report Sunday afternoon meetings in the Tabernacle, both because of his love of the Gospel and his desire to improve his speed writing shorthand. At conference time, before the days of tape recorders, several young people sat at a special table, listening and taking shorthand notes of each sermon. At the reporter's table, he met a young lady, Cecilia Sharp of Salt Lake City, who also was studying shorthand. (A & C) It wasn't long before they were courting, from a distance-Fred from Ogden, and Cecilia from Salt Lake.

Fred also met Heber J. Grant, who was then a Salt Lake City businessman, and later became an apostle and then the seventh President of the LDS Church. Brother Grant encouraged Fred to move to Salt Lake to work for him as his secretary, which he did. The fact that he could now see Cecilia more often had probably entered his mind. Even though Fred was excited about his new opportunity, he also felt lonely in this new city, and he wrote a poem about it, which you can read in the following pages. And, as most of us learn, time eases all things if we let it, and Salt Lake City became the place where Fred eventually married and raised his family.

After lots of practice, Grandfather Barker became expert enough in writing and transcribing shorthand to become a court reporter. He could write shorthand fast enough to record legal testimonies as they were spoken in the courtroom. (I wonder how many of his grandchildren have an interest in shorthand. I know of three of us who do.) Fred became a district court reporter and traveled between Ogden and Salt Lake to serve in the courts of the day. After his mission, Fred studied law and became a member of the Bar. He was widely read and spoke and wrote excellent English although he had only elementary school training. (A & C)

Fred and Cecilia married in the Logan temple where Fred had earlier served a mission as a clerk-recorder. Fred and Cecilia began to raise a family, and when they had four young children, Grandfather Barker was called to be the Mission President to Australia in 1897, leaving his wife and four little ones at home. What a sacrifice this must have been for the family! But, our grandmother, Cecilia Sharp Barker, and her mother, Margaret Condie Sharp, willingly shouldered the responsibility of the home and four young children, (Fred, 7; Lucile, 5; Gladys, 3; and Alma, 10 months) while Fred served his mission. (Their sons, Ira and Clarence, were born after their father came home from his mission.)

While on shipboard traveling to Australia, Fred wrote two loving poems about his wife and children. He missed his family greatly, but he also felt it was important to answer the Lord's call. He served a faithful mission in Australia, and was pleased that his homecoming journey with two other returning missionaries, took him through Egypt, the Holy Land and to Europe, and his journey completed his circle around the world.

In those days, one could request a patriarchal blessing any time it was especially needed, and with each big challenge in his life, Grandfather received a blessing from the patriarch. At the time of his mission call to Australia, the whole family received patriarchal blessings, and he recorded them all and put them together in his scrap book, as he called it, to read all during his life. Grandfather must have read his blessings often, for it looks like every talent was developed, and every promise in those blessings was granted to him during his life.

Grandfather Barker was a very religious man, and he wrote poems about the Savior and about Heavenly Father, and attributes in life that he felt were important, including chastity and being cheerful. He wrote poems about many of the characters in the Book of Mormon, good and bad. He wrote several poems about the prophet, Alma's, life, and he loved Alma so much that he named our father after him. What a wonderful blessing that is!

Grandfather also wrote a play, and for special occasions, he indicated that some of his poems should be sung, writing at the top of each poem which tune to use, just as Emma Smith did in her early hymn book for the Saints. Many of F. E. Barker's poems are included here, and they show his love for the gospel, his family, missionary work, and the temple.

Toward the end of his life, in 1920, when he was living in Salt Lake, Grandfather Barker was again called to be a temple worker, in the Salt Lake Temple this time. He lived close enough to the temple to walk there, and he gave many hours of devoted temple service.

Grandfather died at a fairly young age, 61, of a brain tumor. He was bothered by rheumatism, and toward the end, his sight failed him. At the time of their father's death, Lucile, Ira, and Clarence were still living at home. Al had just married a year before. Our grandmother, Cecilia, and her mother, Margaret Sharp, continued to raise the children to maturity, and their Uncles James Barker and Joseph Sharp always showed great interest and support to the family.

Notes and Comments:
In Grandfather's poems, the wording is his. [Some punctuation, like commas and exclamation marks have been added, plus some comments in brackets for greater clarity.]
It gives me great pleasure to discover what I can about our ancestors and share these accounts with our family. May you gain peace, happiness, joy, and increased faith from reading your Grandfather Barker's poems and writings. These can well be part of our family scriptures.

Lovingly,

Marjorie Cecilia Barker Sorensen

PATRIARCHAL BLESSINGS

Introduction: Grandfather Barker had many patriarchal blessings, as was the custom in those days. One could have a blessing whenever one needed it. Most of his first blessing is printed here. Thereafter, important parts not stated before, are included. These blessings are on record if one wishes to see them. Watch for the parts that talk about Grandfather's posterity. The great thing is, that any of these blessings are available to all of us!

1st blessing - December 8, 1880:
Mound Fort Ward, Ogden, Weber Co., U.T.

December 8th, 1880
A blessing given by John Smith, Patriarch, upon the head of Frederick E. Barker, son of Simon and Jemima Barker,
Born in Mound Fort, Ogden, Weber County, U.T., May 6, 1861.

In the margin, it reads: Ordained to the office of an Elder, March 12th, 1882, by M. H. Jones. Ordained to the office of a Seventy, July 13th, 1884, by Samuel Glasgow.

Ordained a President of Seventy (13th Quo), November 13, 1893.

Set apart as Pres., 124th Quorum of Seventy by J. G. Kimball ab. 1897.

. . . of Logan Temple by Robert A. . . Bain, Apr 1st, 1885, Confirmed by M. W.Merrill.

1st mission to labor in Logan Temple by Pres. C. J. Fjelsted. Returned and went to Salt Lake in employ of Apostle H. J. Grant (later, the prophet).

Set apart to a mission to Australia, December 23/97 and departed Jan. 5/98, arriving February 6th. Appointed to labor in and preside over Queensland Conference Apr 19. Rec'd letter of appointment by First Presidency (dated Mch 1898) to Presidency of Australian Mission.

Rec'd release Feb. 6, 1900.

Brother Frederick, in the Name of Jesus Christ, I place my hands upon thy head, and pronounce and seal a blessing upon thee as the Spirit may indite. Thou art of the House of Israel, numbered with the Sons of Zion, of whom much is expected. Therefore, prepare thyself, for events to come, for the day is not far distant when thou shalt be called to labor in the ministry. Love up to thy privilege, and thy voice shall be heard among the nations of the earth, declaring the words of life and salvation among the people. Listen to the . . .

2nd blessing: Logan Temple, 11th December 1885.

. . . the light of the Lord shall dwell within thee, and every organ of thy mind shall be filled with the inspiration of the Lord; for thou wast called and chosen of the Lord before the foundations of the earth were laid, to come forth in this dispensation to assist in building up a holy Zion upon the earth. And, thou shalt be enabled to go forth and preach the gospel, and the mighty power of Jehovah shall assist thee; and thy voice shall be as the voice of a trumpet proclaiming salvation to the children of men; and the angels of the Lord shall protect thee, and they shall go before thee, that no hand of any assassin shall have power to disturb thee; and thou shalt proclaim the gospel unto the kings and nobles of the earth; and in hearing thy voice, being filled with the power of the Almighty, the wicked shall tremble before thee; and thou shalt have power to do a great and a mighty work in the midst of this generation, and shalt assist in blessing the Israel of God.

And thou shalt have power to do a great and a mighty work upon the earth, and no miracle shall be too great for thee to do, when it shall be necessary for the children of men. And, thou shalt be enabled to attain to power over all the elements, and the winds and the waves of the sea shall obey thy voice; for thou shalt become a mighty man in the Israel of God, and shall have power to become the father of a mighty people, and the Holy Priesthood of God shall rest down upon them. And, thy sons shall become mighty men before the Lord, and many of them shall be proclaimers of the gospel, and shall receive all the power and authority of the Holy Priesthood and shall become kings and priests unto the Most High; and they shall become a mighty people, dwelling in the midst of the Zion of the Lord. And thy daughters shall become women of great renown, filled with the wisdom and the intelligence of the heavens; and their sons and daughters shall become mighty men and women, and shall dwell in the midst of the sanctified of the Most High. And their posterity shall be great upon the earth, even as the sands upon the sea shore; and they shall behold the Lord when He shall come in the clouds of heaven, and shall be numbered, many of them, with the One Hundred and Forty-four Thousand that shall be Kings and Priests unto the Most High; for the mighty power of Jehovah shall rest upon them, and upon all thy posterity dwelling upon the earth; and to thy generations, there shall be no end.

3rd blessing in Salt Lake City, Nov. 27th, 1888:

Thou wilt have much to do, in the due time of the Lord, in writing more than what thou hast, after a time, for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; for that will be thy gift, more promptly, and thy mind will be opened to it and receive it. Thou shalt have the spirit of revelation and the gift of prophecy, to write many things for the Church of Christ. I ask my Father to strengthen thy body, and they memory, and that every time [a] spirit that may try to hinder thee from progressing in the kingdom of God shall have no power from this day; and thou shalt be blessed with the spirit of the Lord and a bold testimony in the due time of the Lord. Thy life shall be spared, and then wilt go to a land, perhaps, which thou hast no knowledge of today, and preach the gospel of Jesus. . . thy mind has been timid, and thou hast been afraid to speak things which have been in thy mind; I ask my Father that it may waste away, so that thou mayst be strong and mighty in the God of Jacob. . . You have done well, you have not been over fast in your tongue, but there has been an inward monitor. Thou shalt come forth in the morning of the first resurrection with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, with thy posterity and many of thy father's house, and thy ancestors. I seal these blessings upon thee in the name of Jesus Christ, and seal thee from danger, seen and unseen. These are great blessings, and if you are faithful, they shall be all fulfilled. . . .

4th blessing in Salt Lake City, Utah, Dec. 5, 1897:

. . . " There is a work still before you, a great work, which you will have the privilege of accomplishing, and which you will accomplish, for God will be with you by His holy spirit, and your angel shall watch over you to warn you from dangers that might beset you while you may be on a mission. And, you will have the whisperings of the Spirit to say unto you, This is the Way, walk ye in it, and to warn you of dangers that perhaps might threaten you. And I say, Brother Barker, that God is pleased with you, and His spirit will attend you. . . .Your tongue will be loosed so that you will speak in a manner that will be pleasing to yourself, and will tell on those that hear you, that many, through your instruction and through the gospel that you shall preach, will listen to you and will receive the same and will be a blessing to you. . . .

The gifts of the gospel will be given to you, the gift of wisdom and understanding; and the power of language shall be given unto you so that you may be able to do a work that will be satisfactory to yourself. And I say, Brother Barker, exercise faith, faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, the faith that was once delivered to the saints, faith that has power with God to do mighty things: for this faith and this power will rest upon you.

You will see many things that you have very little idea of at the present time. You will see the power of God manifested in a way that you never have seen it; and I say, Brother Barker, that the Holy Spirit of Promise shall rest upon you, which I seal upon you in the name of Jesus, and I seal you up unto eternal life. . . .

Reported by myself, F. E. Barker

5th blessing at Salt Lake City, Dec. 22nd, 1897 by Pres. C. D. Fjeldsted.

Frederick Ellis Barker, we thy brethren, place our hands upon your head and set you apart for a mission to Australia, whereunto you have been called by the Servants of the Living God. . . Inasmuch as you will be humble, the Lord will bless and strengthen you, and give you a testimony stronger than you ever have experienced in your life. You shall be able to preach the Gospel with power and demonstration, even to the convincing of the honest in heart wherever you are sent. . . The Lord will raise up friends unto you that will feed you and give you a place of shelter. You shall have much joy and satisfaction in the labor that you shall be called upon to perform. Be subject to the Presidency of that mission, and you shall feel happy in your labor. . . When you are called upon to administer to the sick, do it with power and in the demonstration of the Holy Spirit, and in the name of Jesus, and they shall be healed, and many shall call you blessed.

Your health shall be good. We say unto you, dear brother, keep the Word of Wisdom and your health shall increase, and you shall be strengthened, and every part of your body shall feel the power of God, and you shall have joy and satisfaction in bringing the Gospel of life and salvation to the honest in heart. Do not fear, but lift up your voice and declare that the Lord has restored the Gospel, and that Joseph Smith was a Prophet of God in these the last days. . . go in peace; and be blessed in your journey, both by land and on the sea. No accident shall befall you, and you shall return home after filling a goodly mission to your own satisfaction. . . and to the pleasure of the Lord. You shall return in safety to your loved ones, and shall rejoice in your work. We bless you with every blessing your heart can desire in righteousness. . . and re-seal all your former blessings and ordinations, and in the name of Jesus. Amen

Letter from First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints - Salt Lake City, Utah - March 8, 1898

Elder Frederick E. Barker, Sydney [Australia]

Dear Brother: Elder Andrew Smith, Jr., having been honorably released to return home, with the blessing and approval of the General Authorities of the Church, you are hereby appointed to succeed him in the watchcare and presidency of the Churches comprising the Australian Mission. . . .We beseech God, our Eternal Father to endow you with power from on high, and to fill you with His Holy Spirit and all the gifts that pertain to your office and calling, that you may be a blessing and savior to the children of men in your ministry. . .

We shall be glad to hear from you concerning your labors and the situation of affairs in your field as often as it shall be convenient for you to write, and shall esteem it a pleasure, ourselves, to communicate frequently with you.

Praying God, the Eternal Father to bless you and qualify you for this work to which you are now called, and asking Him to preserve you and yours from the hands of all your enemies, and from every evil during your absence, and to bring you home in purity, peace and love, we remain your fellow servants in the Lord.

[Signed] Wilford Woodruff, Geo. Q. Cannon, Jos. F. Smith

Letter from the First Presidency. . . Salt Lake City, Utah, December 22nd, 1899

Prest. F. E. Barker, Australian Mission.

Dear Brother: We have appointed Elder George H. Islaub to succeed you in the Presidency of the Australian Mission. . . While thus releasing you from the many and varied responsibilities connected with this mission, we feel to say that your earnest and careful labors in the presidency have met with our hearty approval. . . Praying the Lord to bless you with a pleasant, safe and speedy journey both on the waters and on the land, we remain your brethren,

[Signed] Lorenzo Snow, Geo. Q. Cannon, Jos. F. Smith

6th blessing given Nov. 16th, 1908

. . . you have been held in reserve to labor in this dispensation, that you might do a mighty work in helping to bring to pass the purposes of the Lord. For this reason, I seal upon you renewed strength, life, vigor and vitality of body and of mind, and bless you with every needful blessing that you may be able yet in this life to do a great and a good work. You shall be appointed to an office and a calling which, as yet, you have not thought of, which shall enable you to live near to the Lord and which shall give you power and insight into the principles of the gospel, more than you have as yet been able to advance. You shall be filled with wisdom from on high, shall have mighty faith and trust in the Lord, your God, that nothing shall be able to withstand, and shall do a great work yet in this life in proclaiming the gospel to those who know it not.

In all your journeys, and in all your travels, you shall go in peace and safety. No hand raised against you shall prosper; no voice shall prosper, but shall be humbled in the dust. And, every power that is brought to bear against you shall crumble from before you. . . .You shall be blessed in your labors in your daily avocations. You shall be a very useful man in this kingdom, and in doing much writing that shall be needful in the records of the church. You shall have mighty power in healing and in blessing that the sick shall be healed, or the afflicted ones, inasmuch as they have faith, shall be raised up from death unto life. . . And, I bless you that you shall never be tempted more than you are able to withstand; therefore, you shall never turn away from the truth, but be firm and steadfast and faithful all of your days, that in the end, when you have finished your labors upon the earth, you may go on to an exaltation in the highest celestial glory, becoming a king and a priest unto God, to do as those have done who have gone before.

These, dear brother, are but a part of the blessings which are for you. Others shall be sealed upon your head, or shall come to you in answer to your prayers as they shall be needful, and especially the understanding of the Holy Spirit to be your constant guide and help in cases of doubt and of uncertainty. . . .

Patriarchal Blessing Pronounced by Howard Coray on the head of Cecilia Sharp Barker, daughter of Joseph and Margaret Condie Sharp, born in Salt Lake City, Utah, Sept. 21, 1863.

Salt Lake City, Utah, Dec. 5, 1897 [as her husband prepares for his mission].

Dear Sister. . . .I say, dear sister, that God looks upon you with favor and with compassion. He has beheld the troubles that you have had in your past life, the difficulties that you have passed through, and the sorrows that you have had, and the patience that you have exercised. In the various positions in which you shall be placed, God will bless you and confer upon you that which you will mostly desire; you shall have the desires of your heart in righteousness, and your life shall be lengthened out to a good old age.

You will live to see much of the changes that will take place with this people. You will see this people become the head of nations, even; not only the dominant power of the United States, but ultimately, the dominant power of the earth. The kingdom of God. . . will be established from the church of God. . . .You will see Zion arise. You will see this people become the joy of the whole earth, and the glory of God shall rest upon you; and, you will even see this people, a portion of them, come back to Jackson County, Missouri, and build a city, the City of Zion, there again, and the temple there, also; and you will have the privilege of participating in those blessings that appertain thereunto. . . .And, your children shall be a joy to you that will not faint or fail. They will stay with you; when they grow up, they will not leave you, but they will cling to you and be a great blessing to you. And I say, Take care of them, bring them up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, and you will be greatly rewarded-rewarded according to your works. . . And, your husband will cling to you, and you shall have the privilege of enjoying his society, not only in this world, but in the world that is to come, that the union will be perpetual.

I say, dear sister, that this is your blessing, that God will watch over you, and your guardian angel will be on your right hand and on your left hand, to guide you that your feet will not slip, that you may not, no matter what the circumstances may be, go astray, that you will be preserved from the snares and the gins that which befall a great many.

God has blessed you with children. This is a great blessing for a mother, and for a woman, to be a mother in Israel; and your children shall rise up and call you blessed by virtue of the good instructions and the examples that you will set, in the way and manner in which you will train them. And, you will have the opportunity of doing many things that will be an honor to you in the church. Many will look to you, not only for advice, but for counsel, to become a counselor in Israel, a counselor to your sex. . . .Avoid the gossip that afflicts many, that disturbs and jostles their faith. Let nothing. . . .

Patriarchal Blessing to Frederick George Barker, [age 7], Salt Lake City, Utah, Dec. 5, 1897

Frederick. . . There is a great future before you, and great will be your opportunities. You live in an important age of the world, when you will have an opportunity of doing much good both to the living and the dead. . . .In your day, you will see great changes, great things are to be accomplished in this age of the world, which you will have the privilege and opportunity of participating in. In your day, the New Jerusalem will be built up in Jackson County, Missouri, and a temple will be built there, and a people will be prepared in that city as they were in the City of Enoch to meet the Savior when He shall come. You will be prepared for translation, that the Heaven and Earth may come together. This city will meet the one above in the clouds, and you will have the privilege of seeing all these things and being a participant in the same, which is a great blessing.

It is a great blessing to be born of parents that have received the gospel, parents that have faith. Without faith, it is impossible to please God; hence, if your parents bring you up in the nurture and admonition of the Lord, that your faith may be fully established, you will have great power, power to do a great work upon the earth, that you will rejoice in, as well as your parents and your brothers and sisters. [If you are] teachable, willing to receive the truth and will cultivate those things which will prepare you for coming into the presence of God. . . I say unto you, in the name of Jesus Christ, and by virtue of the Priesthood which has been conferred upon me, that you shall live to see these things. . . .[Reported by F. E. Barker]

Patriarchal Blessing to Lucile Barker, [age 5], Salt Lake City, Utah, Dec. 5, 1897.

Lucile Barker, I have come here by invitation of your parents to confer upon you a patriarchal blessing. . . you will grow up a prudent, wise, and virtuous woman, to be not only an honor and a blessing to your parents, but also to the society with which you may associate. . . wisdom and understanding and make you prudent and discreet, so that you will avoid many difficulties and snares that many may fall into through the want of that spirit. . .

Reported by F. E. Barker

Patriarchal Blessing to Gladys Barker, [age 3], Salt Lake City, Utah, Dec. 5, 1897

My dear little daughter. . . .I ask God, in the name of Jesus Christ, to. . . look in mercy upon you and watch over you while you are traveling through the slippery paths of youth, that your feet may not slip, that you may step in sure places, in order that you may reach that goal that the saints of God have in view, which is eternal life. . . Reported by F. E. Barker

Patriarchal Blessing to Alma Sharp Barker, [age 10 months], Salt Lake City, Utah, Dec. 5, 1897.

My dear little child, I put my hand upon your head to bless you, for you are a nice little boy; and I ask God to bless you. . . you will be guided in such a way that you will grow up a plant of renown, that you will have an opportunity of doing a great work in the day you will live upon the earth. Your life will be prolonged upon the earth, and you shall be preserved from the evils and snares and gins and traps that are set for the feet of the children of men. . . .You shall see the kingdom of God become the dominant power upon the earth, and will have the privilege of participating in bringing this about.

You will have the privilege of living in the city of Zion, the New Jerusalem, [and] will be caught up when the Savior comes, to meet Him in the clouds. . . .I seal every blessing upon you that appertains to the church and kingdom of God or to the blessing of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. And, I seal you up unto eternal life; and I seal upon you the holy spirit of promise. This I do, in the name of Jesus of Nazareth. Even so, Amen.

7th - Blessing of Frederick Ellis Barker, Given by Elder George F. Richards (mouth) and Coun. Albert W. Davis, in Setting Him Apart as a Temple Worker.

Given at the Temple, Salt Lake City, Utah, Tuesday, April 26, 1921. (First engaged as a regular temple worker Dec. 2, 1920.)

Brother Frederick Ellis Barker, we lay our hands upon your head, having been duly authorized so to do, and set you apart a regular worker in this, the Salt Lake Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. We bless you for the work which you have performed in this holy house up to the present time, and pray the Lord that He will richly bless you as a reward for all past faithfulness.

We bless you that the spirit of this Temple work may rest upon you, that you may anticipate your labors from day to day with great joy and satisfaction; that the way may be opened before you that you may be able to continue your labors in the future; and that you may be strong of body and vigorous of mind, and enjoy the richness of the Spirit of the Lord in the performance of all your work. . . .

We bless you that your memory may be strengthened, that you may remember the things which you have studied and learned and have use for, and that you may perform those sacred ordinances in all solemnity of spirit and with perfect accuracy, that your labors may be approved of the Lord, and may be sanctified for the everlasting blessing of those for whom you minister, both the living and the dead; and may the blessings of the Lord be upon you while you are here, engaged in this work.

May you love those with whom you are called to labor and with whom you are associated, and treat all men with due courtesy and respect, and uphold and sustain the hands of the authorities of this Temple and of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and be valiant in all things in life, and finally be saved and exalted in the kingdom of God.

We seal these blessings upon you, dear brother, and ask our Father to grant them unto you, with every blessing that would be for your good. We do it all by virtue of the holy priesthood and in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

LINES

Written in 1886, shortly after coming to Salt Lake City to live, suggested by having to pass by the old home, Ogden, and coming to a new one, in the employ of Apostle Heber J. Grant.

[Lonely in the new city, he is thinking of loved ones at home, and new relationships to come.]

[Salt Lake City is where he met his wife to be, Cecilia Sharp.]

Where my duty may call, where honor may say

My destiny feels 'tis my home,

And there I'll enjoy myself and be gay-

I'll reap all the blessings I've sown.

Associates, genial I'll cheer, and be glad;

From work I will gather some joys,

While innocent sport shall divert from the sad,

My heart and the hearts of the "boys" .

In crowds I will gather, and with them I'll feel

The life of the City I'm in;

On books I will ponder, to study I'll steal,

Its comforts and aids thus to win.

The friends I've just made, the truest and kind,

By freedom and cheer, I will make,

And with them I surely enjoyment will find,

And pleasure and comfort will take.

But still, when away from loved ones so dear

And mingling with strangers alone-

Though long midst my business and pleasures, nor near

To my heart shall a sad thought be known,

Yet off to myself I must wander betimes,

For a tendril that's strong and close-bound

Draws forth my reflections to what it entwines,

And feels for my heart till 'tis found.

For dear are the hearts that infancy knew,

The friends of my youth and my prime,

Who've proved to my heart and ever have shown

Affections the purest and fine!

To these will my mind in its longings return

(Perchance in my eye is a tear.)

While pleasures at hand, my feelings all spurn

T'commune with the absent so dear.

'Tis like a young bird that is lost from its nest,

And gone from its parents away,

Or one that is parted from truest and best,

A mate that was lovely and gay;

Although there's a bevy, all singing in glee,

And where the lone one may join in the song,

And tho' his voice, all attuned, may usually be

United with those of the throng-

Yet lonely, anon, he will wander alone,

And pipe to the absent and dear-

Though green be the tree, it is not his home,

Unless he can catch their fond cheer.

But, if he can hear an answering song,

His cage, or wherever he be,

Will still be his home, and cheery as long

As hope says: a meeting shall be.

F. E. Barker--Excerpt

SEA RHYMES

On board the "Moana" , Jan. 11-12, 1898 [On the way to his Australian mission, without his family]
[Loneliness changes to Gratitude for Today's Blessings]

I wonder what my boy would say if I had him here with me,

Gazing afar o'er the white sea foam

And the mountain waves of the briny sea.

I wonder what my girls would think, could they toddle this deck with me,

Be once again with their own papa

With the rollicking fun of their innocent glee.

I wonder how my wife would feel were she casting her eyes with mine

O'er the heaving sides of this quivering bark

Mid the varied scenes of the billowy brine.

I wonder what Grandma would do, with her medicine case along.

Seeing the tea and the powders and pills

Cast adrift to fish by the weak and the strong.

You wonder, do you, how I, too, feel as I'm driven before the wind

O'er the boundless waves of a trackless sea,

With the land, and home, and the loved behind?

I'm luckier now than the man right there who's just lost his hat in the sea;

It went to sail as a rival bark

While his head, uncrowned, it has left with me

I'm feeling much better than Fox, my friend, who is leaning over the rail;

His eyes look deep as if they'd peek out

The last morsel he had, which has taken a sail.

I feel much better with my three coats, two vests, two shirts and all,

To keep me warm in the cold sea breeze,

Not to speak of cover for legs-the "shawl" .

The dinner I've eat sits now first rate, but my stomach had felt more strong

Had I refused all that vile beef tea,

Which, when coaxed, I took-but, it's taken me wrong.

I now enjoy a scene like this: As the ship is plunging hard,

And scoops beneath in her forward throes

Till the water comes flowing in streams on board,

A sailor, cool, just counted his time through the vessel's sides to run,

But he mistook th' next smaller wave

For the heave and flow of the greater one.

As forth he ran and scaled the prow, the surging water rose;

It's covered him from head to toe-

It has wet his face, it has drenched his clothes.

I really enjoy the beautiful scenes of the sea, the waves, and sky,

E'er changing above and shifting beneath,

Like phantom shapes in the clouds on high.

That deep sea-green 'neath the froth and spray is the prettiest ever I've seen;

'Tis prettier far than the rainbow's tints,

Or the colors that float in the prism's gleam.

Those mountain waves that rear so high, crested sprays of snow-white foam

Seem grand to me as they toss aloof

Our gallant bark toward heaven's dome.

I do not fear the wind's deep moan or the vessel's rock and veer

For proof I seem to the seaman's bone * [sea sickness]

And I feel I'm safe on the ocean here.

Those birds that circle the ship around and alighting on the waves soirée

Are welcome as angels of comfort from heaven

As we're borne amain o'er the deep blue sea.

But, the cheeriest thing that we can feel is the sun's salubrious ray

As breaking forth through the clouds above

He disperses the gloom of a weary day.

THE MISSIONARY'S LETTER

Air: "Take This Letter to My Mother"

[A cheerful letter to his family from Australia]

Take this missive to my loved ones, Far across the briny sea:

They'll be thankful for the token When they get these lines from me.

Hand it to my darling mother, To my children dear, and wife,

Who I left to preach the Gospel, Dearer to me than my life.

Chorus:

Take this missive to my loved ones, Far across the briny sea:

They'll be thankful for the token When they get these lines from me.

When I left my home and dear ones, Left my friends and neighbors kind,

Left the scenes of love and childhood-All affections had entwined-

How those dear ones bore the parting, Though their hearts were filled with pain!

How they felt that, with God's blessing, I'd to them return again!

How they trusted in our Maker For my safety, sea and land!

How they said, and felt, "God bless you!" As we shook the parting hand-

Said they knew that God would bless me And would give me souls to save;

He would help me and deliver, Hearts would soften-make me brave.

True, their sacrifice is greater For the Gospel than is mine,

With a home without a papa, He across the billowy brine;

Theirs the trials and the labor Of the home and family tree,

They bereft and left so lonely While I travel here so free.

Chorus:

Then, take this message to my loved ones, "I am well and happy here;

I am prospered in my mission; Soon I'll come, you all to cheer."

F. E. Barker

THE MISSIONARY'S LETTER

Tune: "Madge"

[A missionary father misses his family and tries to be brave.]

While packing up my trunk to go

Upon my journey home-

'Twas after years that I had been away-

I stopped to shake the hand of one

In whom I recognized,

My partner in my travels till today.

"Oh, my dear boy" , I said to him-

He quickly turned away-his eye was wet,

"Wait now" , said I, "my friend,

You know, I am going back to see

Our loved ones, and I thought

Perhaps, a message you would like to send."

Chorus:

"Just tell them that I'm faithful"

He said, "They'll know the rest;

Tell them I am looking well, you know;

Just whisper, if you get a chance,

To the dear ones there, and say

I love them as I did long years ago."

"Your cheek is pale, you're feeling sad,

Just let me take a word

To that lone wife you hold so dear;

She's longing now for you;

A word from you will cheer her heart

As nothing else can cheer."

"I long to see her soon again,

But not just yet" , he said.

"Tis duty now that's keeping me away;

Just tell her not to worry,

For I'm all right, don't you know,

Tell darling I am coming home some day."

Chorus

"Your heart is warm, I know you feel

A thrill within your breast

At mention of your darling little boy.

Just let me bear those pretty pearls,

And kiss his brow, and say:

They're from your father, dear, and you're his joy."

"Just take the pearls" , he said to me,

And say: "A father's tear bedewed them each,

And kiss his infant brow, and tell him that

My anxious prayers for him do e'er ascend,

And some day papa'll kiss as you do now."

Chorus

"Those little girls you've fondled so

You'll send by me a toy,

And bid me dandle them upon my knee,

And tell them that their father'll come

When his mission's ended here,

And soon, their loving papa they will see."

"Don't make me weep for them" , he said,

"My darling little ones! Their mother, dear

Is ever with them there;

But, take a token from my heart,

And whisper, if you will,

Sometime again, they'll have a father's care.

MISSIONARY EXPERIENCES - DIRECT REVELATION - I

[Ministering Angels]

Juvenile Instructor, Jan. 1, 1901

The importance of receiving revelation directly from the Lord, both for comfort and for guidance, is often felt by those in charge of foreign missions where, though under great responsibilities, the Elders are many thousands of miles away from the heads of the Church, through whom they might, if nearer home, receive counsel or obtain the word of the Lord to direct them in their affairs. By request, I submit the following experiences in point:

On the sixth day of June 1898, while presiding over the Australian mission, I felt a heavy weight of gloom hanging over me. I was in the city of Sydney. It had been raining, almost without cessation, for several weeks, so that it was almost impossible for the Elders to get around among the people, and I could not travel. It also seemed, in that mission, a period of particular difficulty and slow progress. The press on every hand was arrayed against us, often publishing scurrilous articles to which they refused us any privilege of reply. Prejudice was rife, and it looked impossible to reach the hearts of the people. I now copy from my journal of the following day: "Before retiring to rest last evening (it being a wet, gloomy night), my mind was much weighed down, meditating upon the frailties and the bodily infirmities of myself and two companions (Elder John M. Ritchie, President of the New South Wales Conference, and Elder Alma C. Lambert). I had also been thinking of the difficulties and some of the discouraging aspects now confronting us in the mission, and the great responsibility resting upon me and the Elders laboring among this people. I had been reading, too, in the Deseret Weekly News of changed conditions in the Southern States and other parts of the Lord's vineyard, and thinking of the wave of better feeling which yet fell short of reaching this land. Being the last to retire, I knelt at my bedside in secret, solemn prayer, and asked the Lord to give me, by a vision of the night, a manifestation of His will concerning myself and co-laborers and the mission in this far land.

I had retired but a short time, as it seemed to me, when I was enwrapped in a most pleasant dream or vision. I seemed to be taken up from the load of mortal frailties and clothed in spirit, so that I felt an air of great freedom, activity and power, and I was given great power of discernment into the minds and feelings of the people and of my associates, the Elders. I seemed to be brought into the immediate company of all the Elders in the mission, not only all who are here now, but others yet to come; and we were all clothed in bright and beaming garments, our minds and countenances lit up with light and intelligence, so that we were most joyous and buoyantly pleasant, beyond expression, and seemed to be moving upon a higher plane, as it were, than those around us-a condition that was also shared very largely by the faithful members of the Church here in this land. I saw numerous heavenly beings hovering above and about us, clothed in garments of exquisite whiteness and their countenances lit up with inexpressible joy, and they looked upon us with beaming pleasure and appeared to be giving us their most anxious and interested solicitude. They were honoring us above all the rest of the people in the world around us, and showed by their actions and communications to me (for they conversed with me directly and frequently) their utmost desire and exceeding pleasure to lead and encourage us in the work in which we were engaged. I was also joyed beyond expression in discerning what appeared to be the perfect confidence reposed in me by the Elders, the perfect union among us, as also the systematic, concerted action with which we prosecuted our labors. I saw, met and overcame, with apparent ease, what to the natural eye appear great difficulties, for all of us seemed to have a spirit of power altogether more bright and powerful than is possessed by ordinary mortals. As the vision progressed, I noticed the trials of the Elders seemed to be short, and O, how meager when viewed in connection with the joy of the heavenly hosts at seeing us overcome them!

And so the work went on, the world generally oblivious to us, but it seemed the very heavenly hosts were watching us and rejoicing in our labors for good. Then, I saw a time when the people were coming to the Elders, treating them with respect and honor, and hearing their message gladly. I seemed for the time to be given much insight into the means by which great changes are to be wrought in the hearts of the people, and could penetrate and perceive the movements of the Elders among them. I saw myself and many of the Elders after we had returned to our homes in Zion; and it was the most gratifying, indeed, to behold how the Lord opened up our ways before us for the attainment of more light, knowledge and power, and more prosperity and happiness with our families and people. I spent much time beholding and contemplating with ecstasy how the Lord opened up the way before me after my return, as also what seemed to be a long and beautiful journey thither ([fulfilled upon my finishing my circuit of the earth and visiting Egypt, Palestine, etc.) I also saw many of the Saints from Australia enjoying, in course of time, a high degree of happiness, freedom and love after gathering with the people of God, and it seemed as if all that received the Gospel were lifted above the people of the world as much, almost, as the condition of the angels is above that of men. Upon our people in the valleys of the mountains, too, I discerned there was a special watchcare and interest, partaking of approbation and pleasure, by the immortal beings of heaven.

F. E. Barker

MISSIONARY EXPERIENCES. DIRECT REVELATION - II

Juvenile Instructor, Mar. 15, 1901

[Always follow the promptings of the Spirit.

The Lord knows what is important in His work.]

During the last half of 1899, a matter arising in the Tasmanian Conference of the Australian Mission weighed heavily upon my mind. Elders William Robison (of Morgan) and B. H. Bingham (of Wilson, Weber Co.,) had succeeded, without purse or scrip, in opening up a new and promising field in the Huon country, in southern Tasmania. At a town called Franklin, they had been very successful in making friends, their meetings were well attended, and a few seemed about ready for baptism. They could get food and sleeping accommodations without asking, in at least fifty families in the town, and were often treated to excellent fruit (which abounds there) and given many a shilling in money.

All at once, opposition arose. But, the owner of a little steamer (a Mr. Williams) came to their aid and proffered them free transportation whenever they desired it between Hobart and Franklin. This promise was accepted, and was kept good for six to eight months to my knowledge, and I have taken quite a number of journeys on the Amy Louise, during which we were given freely, food and bed as well as the ride of sixty miles each way; and, the last I heard, the Elders were still given the same privileges.

But, the ministers in and about Franklin combined against the Elders, busying themselves visiting among the people and slandering the Elders and those who were kind to them; and apparently all at once, a marked change came over the people of Franklin. The Elders were denied even common courtesies, and could hardly procure accommodations or food [with] a single family in the town. The work seemed to be effectually stopped there. Just about that time, however, an opening occurred a few miles further up the Huon River, at a place called Upper Huon. This was an isolated district, where people are found living on the tops of considerable and certainly very abrupt mountains, and little groups of houses are seen nestling in the hills, so far back that they still thresh their grain with the flail and grind it into flour by hand or horse power. A clergyman had told the people there that they might just as well expect to go into a public house and get a drink of beer or a meal of victuals and go away without paying for it as to expect to go to church without paying for it. The ministers not only demanded pay for preaching, but conveyance must be furnished to and from Franklin. The Elders, just at this time, appeared upon the scene with the Gospel message without money and without price; and many opened their houses to them. They began to do a good work, and baptisms were talked of.

The ministers, who a short time previous were unwilling to preach the truth without money, were now active in disseminating falsehood without price; and while the field on the one hand had looked the most promising in the mission, there was apprehension on the other, that Upper Huon would be another Franklin.

Elder Robison, who was a very worthy as well as experienced and able Elder, had been notified that he would be released to return home about the end of September. This was early in August. Yet, unsolicited by anyone, I had felt very strongly the gravity of the situation in southern Tasmania, and in a letter written to the president of that conference, I had told him that, owing to the peculiar conditions there and the fact that Elder Robison was so full of zeal and faith, where so much depended upon him, I felt inclined to extend his time in the field twelve weeks, although he had already been about two and a half years upon his mission, and had suffered a bereavement and many trials. I added, however, in my letter, that I would make it a matter of prayer and seek the mind of the Lord on the subject, and would inform him later. I did so immediately. I asked the Lord, that if it was His will that I should carry out my judgment and extend Elder Robison's mission that period of time, that he would cause my bosom to burn within me by the power of His Spirit. I felt no response for a whole day. I asked that it might be made known to me by a vision of the night. I received no manifestation. The following day, I asked the Lord if it was His will that Elder Robison should go home at the time previously appointed. I felt a warmth within my bosom that seemed convincing. But, my feelings had been so wrought up about the matter, and my judgment had become so strongly settled upon retaining Elder Robison in the field, that I persisted and importuned the Lord, at my bedside, that He would make known His will unto me by a vision of the night.

I awoke during the night, my spirit burning, as it were, within me, and my heart glad. I had received a beautiful vision. A heavenly personage had come to my bedside and communicated to me the will of the Lord on the subject about which I had inquired, and also much information in regard to associate matters. All this filled me with inexpressible pleasure, and furnished me material for long contemplation.

But, when I finally awoke again in the morning, although the impression of the vision was most strong upon my mind, and the information given me was retained most unequivocally, that Elder Robison should return according to the previous appointment, all the rest of the information had been taken from me, and I felt utterly incapable of recalling any of it. This seemed strange to my mind, but I accounted for it by the belief that the Lord intended I should benefit by my experience and the exercise of judgment, as well as to seek Him as time went on and new conditions arose.

I at once wrote the president of the Tasmanian conference, particulars of the manifestation, whereby it should be known that it was the will of the Lord that Elder Robison should sail for home at the date previously fixed. However, a few days before Elder Robison would have to leave his field of labor, and many weeks after writing as above, the President of the conference wrote me describing enthusiastically, a recent visit he had made to the Huon country. He was, indeed, much encouraged with the outlook, but felt greatly the importance of the best work possible being done where they were actually searching out Israel from the vastnesses of the mountains and hunting them from the holes in the rocks. He had, in fact, felt so much the gravity of the situation that he had told Elder Robison that he might consider his mission extended until the next following sailing of the Moana (twelve weeks), and wrote me hurriedly to confirm the same. He had felt so intensely enthused on the subject that he had apparently overlooked my previous communication; and Elder Robison had also volunteered his willingness to remain if counseled to do so. I answered this letter very briefly, stating the whole matter had been covered by a previous letter, receipt of which had been acknowledged, and I could say no more. The Lord had revealed His will on the subject, and although it seemed contrary to the judgment of man at the time, I did not doubt it. Nor did I, when I visited the field myself; and I feel now, more than ever, the wisdom of the same. My note reached Elder Robison just in time for him to catch the last boat, to commence his homeward journey

F. E. Barker

MISSIONARY EXPERIENCES - DO ANGELS HAVE WINGS?

Juvenile Instructor - May 1, 1901

[An amusing account wherein Elder Barker is guided to handle a confrontation well.]

In the course of my touring the Australian Mission during the years 1898, 1899, and 1900, I had many interesting experiences. In December 1899, in company with Elder William T. Rex, I visited, among other places in southern Tasmania, the Upper Huon. That section had then but recently been opened up, and there were many investigating. A few had been baptized, and others had indicated their intention to soon become members of the Church. Opposition, although not yet open, was strong, though in the way of an undercurrent, the strength of which had not yet developed. Among the most active, thinking spirits in that locality was a lady, of some attainments and a good deal of influence in the community, by the name of Mrs. Roberts. The Roberts family was well to do, and this lady was in the habit of entertaining ministers, Salvation Army officers and others who frequented that part. By these means, as well as by extensive reading, she kept in touch with the feelings of the clergy and other votaries and guardians of sectarian dogmas. In fact, she was quite adept in enforcing their arguments and keeping track of the religious and moral pulsations of the people. Elder Rex and I spent some time in the vicinity, calling upon the people and holding meetings. Among others, we called several times on the Roberts family, with whom he had been acquainted for some time. These people were very hospitable, and we never failed there of a good Gospel conversation, and always felt, too, that it was more far-reaching than the family itself.

The visit I now speak of was made one evening just as the family and a few acquaintances were being seated for supper. I had been giving a number of lectures in the meeting house near by, illustrated with stereopticon views, presenting the bringing forth of the Book of Mormon, the rise, progress and history of the Church, etc. Immediately after we had entered the house, and while in the act of sitting down to supper, the following conversation, reported with substantial accuracy, was precipitated:

Mrs. Roberts (warmly): Mr. Barker, I have something for you to explain this time. In fact, I know I have caught you now. True, I have to admit that I have thought I had you on many of your doctrines numbers of times before, but you or Mr. Rex, or some other of your Elders, have always been able to explain it away and make me appear inconsistent after all. But this time, I have no doubt about it: I can prove you are wrong by the Bible, and besides, it is something that is contrary to the received ideas of every Christian, now and all through the history of the past.

Elder Barker: Oh, I note you have been quite observing. I admire your interest; but truly, I am not conscious of having advocated any false or unscriptural doctrine, and I should certainly like very much to have you show wherein I have done so, if you are certain it has happened.

Mrs. R: Well, I am entirely certain of it; in fact, we spent some time last evening looking it up, and we have the place marked in the Bible that proves conclusively that you are wrong.

Indeed, nothing is so pleasant to me as to be met on Bible ground by the opponents of our doctrines. But will you kindly explain what the point is?

Mrs. R: Well, the other night, you told the people here, and illustrated it by your pictures, that angels haven't got wings.

B: Well, my friends, I am aware that the idea is almost generally entertained by the Christian world that angels have wings; but I fail to see that it is scriptural. It is true, I represented in my lecture, the visits of heavenly messengers declaring themselves to have come from the presence of God; and I said, at the same time, that it does not appear that any of them had wings; and, I believe, I stated that I did not know anything between the lids of the Bible that taught me the popular idea that angels have wings. And now, Mrs. Roberts, I should be very glad to have you point to anything in that sacred book showing that they have.

Mrs. R: Very well, you shall have it positively just as soon as my niece here can go into the parlor and bring the book. (To the niece.) Crissie, go and get the Bible and open at the place we found last night. (Crissie retires from the room.) But, Mr. Barker, you know that passage you often quote, "And I saw another angel fly in the midst of heaven, having the everlasting Gospel to preach," etc. That represents an angel flying, and how could they fly without wings?

B: I admit, Mrs. Roberts, you have the semblance of an argument in that passage, probably the only one that I have ever found. I do not, however, admit that angels must have wings in order to soar or rise in the air. I believe from the Bible that Jesus ascended from earth to heaven without wings, and we might say that Elijah did likewise while in his physical body, even. But, let me ask you how far you can rely upon the figure couched in that word "fly" in the passage you have quoted. If you could found a perfect argument upon the implication of a word like that, you could prove from the Bible that the Lord has "wheels" . The other day, I saw a boy throw a stone very swiftly, and he said, "I just sent it flying through the air!" But, I didn't see that the stone had wings, nor did the expression employed prove it. You will not contend, will you, that your point is proved against me by that passage, or that the argument is very strong?

Mrs. R: No, I must admit that is not sufficient, though I had thought it much stronger than it now appears; but the passage we found last night is conclusive, and I know that I can prove it from the Bible. (To the niece.) Crissie! Do hurry and bring that book.

Crissie, (from the other room): I can't find the place yet, Auntie.

B: Well, while your passages are being searched out again, can you name one or two arguments you may have showing that angels have wings.

Mrs. R: Well, I thought I could. But what do you say, Mr. Barker; can all our ideas upon that subject possibly be wrong-

Mr. R: Impossible! No; angels have wings, of course they have!

General chorus: Of course they have; of course they have!

Mrs. R: Christendom has always pictured angels with wings. And where could the idea spring from if not from the Bible!

B: I agree with you, angels have very generally been represented as having wings, especially in modern times; but, I may say you can find paintings and sculpture in Palestine today, and even in Rome and other places, among the more ancient models, representing heavenly beings without wings. As to where the idea sprang from, I can only infer that it sprang from paganism. The pagans had their elfs, fairies, satyrs, sybils, etc., and from time immemorial, adopted the plan of representing them with wings, indicative of their flying about in the atmosphere; and during the dark ages, the seraphs, cherubs, angels, of the Christians, seem to be confounded with those mystic beings of paganism, and were soon pictured in the same manner. In fact, you can find many models of ancient art, dating far anterior to the time of our Savior, representing the mythological beings of paganism, such as I have named, that but for their known dates and origin, are just as applicable to the angels of the Christian people as to the objects they were meant to represent. I, therefore, cannot accept conventionalism as proof of your position. But, I believe you promised me conclusive evidence from the Bible.

Mrs. R. (loudly): Crissie! Crissie! Do bring that Bible!

Crissie, (From the other room): Auntie, I am having such a trouble to find that place!

B: I believe I stated during the course of my lecture that it appears from the Bible that angels or heavenly messengers have occasionally been called "men" , for instance, we read in Genesis of two messengers, called in the same chapter both "men" and "angels" who appeared to Lot, and three "men" appeared to Abraham with a very important message. Were angels not in the likeness of men, why the caution, "Be not forgetful to entertain strangers, for thereby some have entertained angels unawares." (Heb. 13:2). We have an example in the 22nd chapter of Revelation, of the Apostle John falling down before an angel to worship him. This angel told him, "See that thou do it not, for I am thy fellow servant, and of thy brethren, the prophets." John, in describing the resurrection of our Savior, states there were two angels, one at the head and one at the foot of the sepulcher; while Luke, in describing the same scenes, says "There were seen two men in shining garments," and then adds that the women reported "They had seen a vision of angels which said that He was alive."

Mark also describes an angel as a man in white apparel; and you have a similar description in the Acts, of the angels that were seen when Jesus ascended. So, in all the Bible, I have found no indication that angels have wings. Does it not seem strange, too, that Christian artists seem always to represent angels as being of the female sex, while the Bible shows, probably without exception, quite the contrary? But now, here comes your niece, and let us have the positive proof which you have found.

Crissie, (Entering cautiously and whispering somewhat loudly to Mrs. Roberts): Say, Auntie, I did find the passage, but I couldn't believe my own eyes; it is locusts that have wings, not angels.

F. E. Barker

MISSIONARY EXPERIENCES

The Power of Faith - The Curse Being Removed

Published in the Juvenile Instructor, May 15, 1907

Among the few Australian Saints visited by myself and Elder John B. Mathias in a trip to Boulburn, New South Wales, in May 1899, was Sister Cragun, of that place, who had been baptized by Elders W. G. Parks and Alma Hubbard, a little over a year previously. Sister Cragun was originally from New Zealand. Her mother was a full-blood Maori, her father a Scotchman and a veteran of the Battle of Waterloo. She is a bright and unusually intellectual woman, in many ways; yet, her native simplicity shows she has inherited many of the characteristics of her mother. Particularly as to her complexion, she took after the Maori people, being nearly as dark as a full-blood Lamanite.

She took to the faith of the Gospel most naturally and devotedly. Such was the penetration with which she was inspired at the very first visit of an Elder at her door, that although prevented at the time from even getting a sight of him, her heart seemed to be touched by the very knock on the door, and the voice of that Elder still rings in her ears. The tract he left was about to be destroyed when she grasped it as something of priceless value, looked it over at the first opportunity, and waited and watched for the Elder's return. From that time, it required no persuasion or urging to get her to read our literature or listen to explanations of our principles. She read the Book of Mormon with great devotedness; and although her nearest friends all but repudiated her and the most influential people of the community, including the postmaster of the city, endeavored most assiduously to dissuade her from having anything to do with the "deluded Mormons" or their "Golden Bible" , it had no weight upon her mind whatever. She seems to be blessed with most implicit faith, and we were delighted to hear her narrate how many and wonderful were the direct answers to prayer she had received. Among other things, she had seen some very remarkable visions relating to the history and sacred places of our people and the glorious rewards of the righteous.

But, the most remarkable to our minds was that a miracle was being wrought upon her, for we were struck with the fact that Sister Cragun's skin and flesh were being renewed. This had begun immediately after her baptism. We noticed that a considerable portion of her face was already as white and the flesh apparently as soft and beautiful as that of an infant child. The skin of her hands had gradually peeled off and had been renewed deep down into the flesh, so that they had altogether changed from the brown, unbecoming complexion and rather rough appearance they had had before, to a skin and flesh of both softness and beauty. Her face, to the extent of about one-fourth to one-third of its surface, had been likewise renewed. The change seemed to have gone on in a singularly regular way, beginning, as to the face, at the mouth and following regular lines which were being gradually extended. She informed us that she was something about one-third renewed over her body. I promised her as a servant of God that she should live to see the power of God work a wonderful renovation and regeneration upon her until she should, as to these particulars, look more beautiful than she did in childhood. I told her that it was through her faith, and was a fulfillment of the words of the prophets, contained in the Book of Mormon, concerning her people, that they should "become a white and delightsome people" . She is now about fifty years of age. When I again saw her, sometime after I found she was becoming more and more white; and when, in March 1901, I met Elder Mathias, just then returned from Australia, I was gratified to learn that he had but recently visited Sister Cragun, and that the miraculous renovation of her whole system is still progressing, so that she looks as if she would soon be fully white.

F. E. Barker

* And the Gospel of Jesus Christ shall be declared among them. . . and then shall they rejoice; for they shall know that it is a blessing unto them from the hand of God; and their scales of darkness shall begin to fall from their eyes; and many generations shall not pass away among them save they shall be a white [pure] and delightsome people. (II Nephi 30:5, 6)

NATHAN, COME HOME!

By F. E. Barker

Published in the Sept Era, 1915

[Nathan made some wrong choices and later repented, like the prodigal son.]

"Nathan, come home!" These were the words of President Brigham Young, received in a brief letter by his nephew in about the year 1850. They were words indited with all the wisdom of a philosopher and the inspiration of a prophet. Obedience to them might have resulted to a promising young man in a life of honor, happiness and, perchance, of immortal fame and unfading glory. But, mark the sequel.

It was in a Hospital for Old Men, in the City of Parramatta, about 20 miles inland from Sydney, Australia, on the 24th day of July, 1899, these words were rehearsed, in pathetic sadness, by Nathan Young, addressing two or three Mormon Elders, for whom he had sent after learning they were in that vicinity. Nathan Young was then apparently a broken down old man, 72 years of age and having the appearance of being in the last lingering weeks of a wasted life. He was a nephew, he said, of President Brigham Young, the latter having married a Miss Angell, sister of [temple] architect Truman O. Angell, and a sister, also, of Nathan's own mother. Nathan had been baptized when 16 years old in the Mississippi River by Brigham Young, and was in Nauvoo at the time of the martyrdom of the Prophets Joseph and Hyrum Smith.

He started westward with his people in the great Exodus, and became a member of the Mormon Battalion. After the long march of that heroic band, he re-enlisted [in the army], in California, in July 1847, and after eight months' further service for his country, was mustered out in the midst of the gold excitement of those days. He went to the gold fields, and accumulated a nice lot of money.

It was then that he wrote to President Young: "Uncle, What shall I do?" The answer also was brief as it was fraught with prophetic wisdom, "Nathan, come home!"

But, Nathan loitered, and soon his money slipped through his fingers. He caught the gold fever of Australia, then coming to its height, and hastened to that far off land. When the writer saw him there, nearly fifty years afterward, he appeared to be the veriest wreck of his former self, dissipated, disappointed, and probably in the last lingering stages of disease. Good fortune had failed to attend him in that land; his life had been a varied and a hard one, full of trials and vicissitudes. He shed bitter tears, indeed, as he contemplated what he had lost compared with what had been achieved by his people.

Among other things, he gave vent to such thoughts as these: "Yes, if I had followed Uncle Brigham's counsel, no doubt, I would have lived and prospered with my people, my hopes would have been anchored, and I would have been happy. Instead, I have lived a life of dissipation, a wandering celebate, and have become an object of charity. I have reaped my harvest, and it means to me the depths, yea, the very dregs of disappointment and failure. Had I obeyed that short message, I would have been one with my people, married one of the fair daughters of Zion, and would have had a posterity to bear my name in honorable remembrance to future generations, and the name of Nathan Young would not, perchance, have been destined to be lost from the earth. But now, I am alone-no children, no home, and until I heard of you, I felt I had no people, no dear ones on earth."

As we talked to him, tears of joy filled his eyes at the thought of having been brought back into communication with his people. Then, I said: "Yes, brother, it has been a great disappointment to you, indeed, during a very long period, and now your Uncle Brigham has gone to the other side; but yet, you may picture, in your mind's eye, that he is still calling, beckoning from the realms of immortality, even in the world to come. Brigham Young says now to you, 'Nathan, come home!' [And], as the President of the Australian Mission, I will write him, and let him tell you himself."

Then, the old man's hopes seemed to return with great buoyancy, and he rejoiced beyond description as we blessed him as the servants of the Lord and promised to remember him in our prayers. In a few weeks, his health had, in a degree, returned, and I had befriended him by preparing application and proofs for a pension, which afterward resulted in his getting a nice sum from the American government. In due time, loving words came from his own sister, Rachel Frazer, of Wasnship, Utah; and from his cousin, Brigham, in Salt Lake City, came the message again: "Nathan, come home." In course of time, he was sent to Zion with emigrating Saints, and rejoiced with his relatives and his beloved people, and his bones were there laid to rest, after he had reached an advanced old age, by the tender hands of his loved ones.

But, all through his life, from the days of his early manhood, there rang through the ears of Nathan Young that message, so searching and full of meaning-"Nathan, come home!"

NATHAN, COME HOME!

Nathan, when youthful, was loyal and true,

And in ranks of true patriots stood,

And, he marched 'neath the flag; the red, white and blue,

In the cause of the just and the good.

But, temptation was strong that allured him to roam,

When a message from Brigham called-"Nathan, come home!"

The glint of fair fortune and gold in their gleam

Beckoned hard to his young heart to spurn

That voice of the Seer, and he followed his dream

Ere homeward again he would turn.

'Twas the voice of the Prophet-"Now, Nathan, come home!"

As he wandered afar 'neath the Cross of the South,

And fortune ne'er came to his hand,

Though his feet oft were blistered and thirst parched his mouth,

While vainly, he searched through the land,

There would come to his soul, like the wind in its moan,

"Uncle Brigham is calling-"Oh, Nathan, come home!"

His heart oft was faint, which he ne'er could gainsay,

While the seeds of his ruin were sown,

For sad was the gloom, the awful dismay,

To think of that message, and own

'Twas unheeded so long as he trod a strange loam

While his loved one, the Prophet, called-"Nathan, come home!"

But, a message from Brigham there came once again,

When Nathan was ag'd and infirm,

And his heart being softened, he gladdened that then

There was help, and he homeward could turn;

And, he roused and accepted that call o'er the foam

From Brigham, the younger-"Now, Nathan, come home!"

He came forth to Zion, his loved ones he met

And accomplished his mission before

He was bidden beyond by those words, ringing yet,

E'en that message repeated once more-

"O Nathan, now come, on the earth cease to roam" -

'Twas Brigham, the Prophet, called-"Nathan, come home!"

F. E. Barker - July 12, 1915

AN INCIDENT OF TRAVEL

[Wherein he was led to make the right choice.]

[Published]

I stood at the point in Port Said, Egypt, where the Suez Canal enters the Mediterranean, gazing at the magnificent statue of Ferdinand De Lesseps, the genius and builder of the great canal. Suddenly, I was accosted by the voice of some person on the opposite side of the boulevard. There was no mistaking it: I was recognized. In the party addressing me, I saw the troubled expression of a man past middle age, sprawled out in a resting, but woe-begone attitude. On closer inspection, I discerned the features of one of those typical old Syrians we had seen about the Holy Land. He bore the impression of having been greatly misused, and his first words were: "I been sheated, I been sheated!" My name be I. Backarat-Isaac Backarat. I t'ink you know Dr. Robison-O, I been sheated!" I been sheated!" His modulation and also his twang were very peculiar.

I could not help wondering at the salutation. What did it mean? Did he think I had cheated him? I had been led to think before I arrived at that point that one would do well if he made such a trip as I was taking without being cheated in some way. But, I am going to stop here and tell you a few facts which will bring together the parts of my story.

Some days prior to the above happening, our little party of three returning missionaries, in the course of our round-the-world trip, were proceeding on board a Russian steamer from Alexandria to Jaffa, the ancient Joppa and sea port constituting the gateway to Palestine. We had shared each other's company in travel by sea and land for many weeks, but owing to my companions having determined to take a considerably more extensive trip in Asia Minor and other eastern parts (which they later abandoned) we were about to separate. After a few more days together, to be spent in the Holy Land, we were to part, and I would have to pursue the rest of my journey alone.

It was very early in the morning. I had gone, the first of our party, upon deck, and by the first beams of the rising sun, could see the glittering spires and rounded roofs of the city of Jaffa. I was startled by the voice (so strange in those parts) of one who could speak good English. It came addressing me very courteously, announcing that the speaker was an Englishman of liberal culture and means, and an officer in the service of the Egyptian government under the English regime, and was then taking his vacation, which he expected to spend to the extent of six weeks or more in the Holy Land. He said his intention was to go right up to a certain hospice, the Carsinova, just outside the walls of the City of Jerusalem and present his credentials, when he would be furnished, entirely free to him, with everything he desired for a most extensive and enjoyable trip through Palestine and Syria, and that he could just as well take along a companion of his own choosing without any expense to either. He said he had picked me out as soon as he saw me as being a very desirable person to accompany him, and he was very solicitous that I would accept his rare offer.

All the details seemed to be most fitting my purpose at the time, and the whole looked nothing less than providential. I promised him an answer within an hour, which would be before disembarking at Jaffa. He had handed me his card, which bore the name of Charles Helfield, M.B. This, I took down to my companions, and asked their advice. The proposition, they said, looked very fine upon its face, but as to the genuineness of the character described, not having seen him, they could not conjecture. After retiring and spending a few moments privately, in supplicating the Throne of Grace for divine guidance, I set out, announcing that I was going to arrive at a conclusion after a very brief investigation.

I had noticed, and remarked, that the gentleman's card was apparently in his own handwriting, not printed or engraved, which gave it an air of cheapness. I also observed that he was found so early on deck, in the midst of Arabs and other Orientals who had spent the night under the open canopy of heaven, and during our voyage of several days' duration, we had not once seen him at the dining table in the ship's cabin. I approached one of the ship's officers, and asked him if he knew the gentleman whose card I exhibited. "Why," said he, "that is the fellow who applied yesterday for work. I am engaged in the government service, but I never heard of his being employed in any capacity by the Egyptian or the English government." My conclusion was formed at once, and when Mr. Helfield appeared, he got a straight refusal.

I heard no more of Mr. Helfield until, upon our return to Port Said, I met Mr. Backarat, as I have described. From this typically shrewd old Syrian dragoman [tour guide], I learned that he (Mr. Backarat), was at Jaffa when our party had disembarked for Jerusalem, and had been approached by a certain Dr. Robison, who enlisted his services as one of the dragomen or professional guides of the country. That this Dr. Robison had told him a beautiful story, got him to advance means to pay the doctor's transportation, Jaffa to Jerusalem, second class, which was worse than any third class I had ever seen on any railway before. That the doctor had applied at one of those fine charitable institutions just without the walls of the Holy City, and on presenting his papers, was immediately admitted and cared for. This, however, had not prevented his first putting up his story to his drogoman, that he, the doctor, had large deposits of money at Beirut and also at Cairo, but was just then temporarily short of funds. The dragoman loaned him what he seemed to need.

Presently, a message came to Mr. Backarat from the doctor. They met again, and soon a bargain was closed for the dragoman to conduct a party of thirty people over a long trip covering Jericho, Hebron, Galilee, Damascus, Beirut, etc. For this expedition, the drogoman proceeded to arrange all preliminaries, meanwhile making the necessary advances for hire of mules, camels, attendants and the most complete and modern equipment.

Then, came another message, responding to which the dragoman was told that the doctor needed at once, fourteen pounds in ready money, and that the dragoman should bear a telegraphic order on Damascus for the amount. The dragoman advanced the money, despite a hardship it entailed upon his family, and sent off the message. Within another day or two, he was called to dine sumptuously at the consulate at Jerusalem, with great dignitaries, which he did never surmise that it was all at his own expense.

Soon after, he was sent for by the doctor and entreated to go down to Suez, a distance of several hundred miles by land and sea, to meet the doctor's party and bring up his baggage. The dragoman responded, at his own expense, and it was when he reached Alexandria in the course of this journey that his suspicions were first aroused. Then, he went at once to the British consulate. He learned that the consul knew the doctor described, and said: "Why, yes, he is a thief, an embezzler, who has been scarce a fortnight out of jail." The consul at once dispatched a message, requesting the immediate arrest of the doctor. When this was being sent, the dragoman found a telegram had arrived for himself, dated at Jerusalem and reading: "Proceed quick, through Alexandria, awaiting letter, Suez." The message was unsigned, and was no doubt intended to hurry the dragoman on and prevent his making any inquiries in that port. Next, the dragoman learned that the consul had received a wire from Beirut, saying the doctor had left the country, having sailed from Beirut just the day before.

During our conversation, in which Mr. Backarat detailed these facts to me about his own experience, he showed me, among other papers, an "I O U" from Dr. Robison for fourteen pounds, several telegraphic orders for money, upon which nothing could be realized; and some high-sounding letters of recommendation, and assured me by the strongest kind of evidence that he was the loser to the extent of not less than sixty pounds ($300), besides his time, trouble, and further outstanding obligations for which he was responsible, all through this same Dr. Robison. It was a loss, too, that he could very ill afford, and he was correspondingly dejected, as his visage showed. He told me he was a Christian, living at Jerusalem, and had a large family to support. Then, he reiterated, in a most distracted way: "I be one d-n phool all the time-one d-n phool! I been sheated, I been sheated!"

I was already certain in my own mind of the identity of the "doctor" , but now I verified by conclusion by a few well-directed interrogatories, which Mr. Backarat answered in a saddened whine between his sobs. The Dr. Robison was no other than the gentlemanly Charles Helfield, M. B., who had so courteously made the proposition of pleasure and travel throughout the Holy Land, to the heart's full desire and without expense, to your humble servant. F. E. Barker - Salt Lake City, June 1915

TEMPLE HYMN

[Reflections on temple work] (For Tuesday Service)

Air: I Have Read of a Beautiful City

As we're laid in the beautiful water

For dear ones who've lived long ago

(True emblem of death and the rising,

As Jesus, in Jordan's clear flow),

May our hearts be all fit and rejoicing

While as saviors we act for the dead,

To whom there n'er came the true Gospel

Till their spirits from earth-life had sped.

Chorus:

For not half has ever been known,

To our hearts has ever been known

How Jesus' spilt blood bro't redemption,

To mortals has ever been known.

As saviors come up to Mount Zion,

And as shepherds come home to the fold,

Having searched out the names of our kindred

Who lived in the days now of old,

We, for them, are baptized in clear water,

As Jesus, laid down in the grave,

That thro' turning the keys of the Priesthood,

Our loved ones who're dead, He may save.

Chorus

And, as humbly, the hands of the Priesthood

On the faithful who're sick they shall lay,

May true faith in the love of our Savior

His Spirit with power convey,

Both to them who are sick and afflicted

And the brethren who fervently pray

And anoint with the oil, to the healing

Of all who are suffering today.

Chorus:

For not half has ever been known,

To our hearts has ever been known,