1875-1911-Smith-Diaries of John H Smith

Church, State, and Politics: The Diaries of John Henry Smith

Edited by Jean Bickmore White Signature Books in association with Smith Research Associates, 1990

Chapter 1

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[Saturday, July 4, 1874 - Philadelphia] Our nations birthday, and what changes. I got up at five a.m. and was looking at the Country before we reached the City. The Crops look better to me than they did down the road. On our arrival in the City at 6:30 a.m. we got some breakfast at a restaurant, and at 7:15 a.m. we was soon on the move again through some fine Country, and at 10 a.m. reach Jersey City. We cross the River to New York and go to bro. W. C. Stains office and found him looking for us. He took us to the Astor House [hotel]. Bro. Nuttall and I had room 215. We visited Central Park. It is a magnificent place, and we had a very fine time. In fact I was very tired.

My expenses to this place is $83.45. In the evening we went to Neblos Theatre. The Play was Ivanhoe. The scenery was grand but the acting was misserable. 11:30 p.m. we return to rest.

[Sunday, July 5, 1874 - New York City] We took our meals in eating house. The a.m. was spent in looking about town. P.M. we went to Williamsburg and attended meeting with the saints, bro. Bywater presided. All of our party spoke as also bro. Staines, J. Richards and Spencer Clawson. A splendid feeling prevailed. It was stormy.

[Monday, July 6, 1874 - New York City] Today some 750 saints with some returning Elders arrived in this harbor. Elders John Clark & G. F. Gibbs are returning home. Bro. Nuttall and I went to Staten Island, distance 7 miles. It cost 20 cents to go and return.

In the evening bros. Sinclair, Nuttall, and myself witnessed a grand exhibitlion of fire works at Union Squair. There must have been thirty thousand people present.

[Tuesday, July 7, 1874 - New York City] We took a ride around the Central Park to day, bro. D. Mack. having returned from Shrewsbury. The saints that arrived yesterday left here to day for the vallies. In the evening we all went to Barnums Hipodrome and had a splendid evening. It was again Quite midnight before we got to our hotel.

[Wednesday, July 8, 1874 - New York City] At five p.m. I went on board of the steamer City of New York and booked by steamer to New London and from there by rail to Whitefield. The scenery along the sound is lovely. At 10 p.m. I went to bed.

[p.8][Thursday, July 9, 1874 - New London] At 4 a.m. I left the steamer and took train. The Country is hill and dale with many fine towns. The land is covered with trees and grass.

At 4 p.m. I reached Whitefield and went in a hack [carriage] to my Uncle Charles Libbey. Him and wife received me kindly and seemed very pleased to see me. They have three sons and 1 daughter. I had supper and we went to Uncle George Libbeys store, where I saw Webster, Henry, Jeremiah and George and all were glad to see me. I stoped overnight at Uncle Charles.

[Friday, July 10, 1874 - Whitefield, N.H.] I have seen all the brothers that are at Whitefield. There are six of them here. Charles, wife and four children, all men and women. Henry, wife and 2 children, Jeremiah Cole, wife and three children. John & wife, & he has no children. George, wife and 2 children. Webster, wife and 3 children.

New Hampshire women have quit having babies or only two or three because it aint fashionable.

My uncles are all wealthy men except one and he is well to do. They own a great deal of timber land and run Saw Mills and keep small stores. I visited them all at there homes, and had a good time. They are fine men and women of the world. I stoped over night at Uncle Websters.

[Saturday, July 11, 1874 - Whitefield, N.H.] I breakfasted at Uncle Websters and took dinner at Uncle Henrys. He was away from home, but his wife treated me kindley. Uncles John, George, and Webster went to the station with me. I bore my testimony to them and I told them I was Irredeemably a Mormon.

2 p.m. the train moved of[f] and at Manchester I was joined by Uncle Charles Libbey and we went to Boston together. We arrived at 8:30 p.m. at Boston and put up at the Sherman House.

[Sunday, July 12, 1874 - Boston] We took breakfast at a Restaurant and sallied out to see Boston the hub of the universe. The streets are crooked and narrow but some of the buildings are very fine. The day was spent in running about. I saw two old [battering] rams that was used during the war.

At 6:30 p.m. I bid Uncle Charles Good bye at the old Colony R.R. station to New Port and by steamer Bristol for New York. The steamer was fitted up elegantly and there was hundreds of passengers on board. About 11 p.m. I retired to rest.

[Monday, July 13, 1874 - Steamer Bristol, Long Island Sound] I got up very earley and was looking at the scenery skirting the sound. At 9 a.m. we reached New York. Distance 250 miles. A confidence man tried to play me a trick, but I gave him the sack.

[p.9][July 24, 1874 - Liverpool, England] At 1 p.m. [cousin and European mission president] J[oseph]. F. Smith, Ernest Young and J. E. Graham met us on board the steamer.

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[Sunday, Aug. 8, 1875 - New York City] 4 a.m. we arrived at Sandy Hook and waited for the Tide untill 9 a.m. when we steamed for N.Y. The doctor came on board and inspected the passengers.

I had no bother at the Custom House. They simply opened my valise and box.

I learned on landing that J. T. Caine and Sudbury were at the Stevens House, but they were out so I went down to 8 Battery and found them and bro. Staines in the office. After a shake of the hand all around I learned that Jas. A. Young was dead and Ed[ward] Tullidge was insane.

We took dinner at the Stevens House. Bro. Staines reported father improving.

[Monday, Aug. 9, 1875 - New York City] The day is fearfull hot. I received a letter from father stating that he was bad but for me to take my time. Bro. Staines let me have 80 dollars. I kept very close during the day.

Evening at 6 p.m. Bro. Sudbury and I bid bro. Caine good bye and went to the Hudson River R.R. station and booked for Chicago. 8 p.m. we left.

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[Friday, March 3, 1882 - Washington, D.C.] We arrived in Washington at 6:40 p.m. and were met by Bro. [George Q.] Cannon and Irvine and taken to the Riggs house. Had supper and called upon Capt. Hooper and his daughter who received us very kindly. Bros. Cannon and Hooper feel confident that Bro. Cannon will get his seat [in the House of Representatives]. Public opinion seems to be subsiding a little but is still very bitter.

[Saturday, March 4, 1882 - Washington, D.C.] It is a beautiful day. We have visited the Capitol and was in the House of representatives. It seemed to me more like a mob than a dignified body of men.

[p.75]We were introduced to many members of Congress. We passed through the building and visited the Senate chamber, library, and court room. Bro. Cannon related how he felt when Garfield went back on him in his inaugeral address and how the Lord’s displeasure followed him. Capt. Hooper said Prest. Andrew Johnson was a friend to the Mormons still him and his family all went to the bad.

After dinner we walked over to the new department buildings and spent considerable time in looking around. I took my first view of the White House and cannot say I regard it very highly. I had a bath today in the Capitol. I must say I regard Washington as a very fine city.

[Sunday, March 5, 1882 - Washington, D.C.] The day has been spent in looking about the city and I find some magnificent homes and nice grounds.

[Monday, March 6, 1882 - Washington, D.C.] M. Thatcher left here at 9:30 p.m. for New York. In my brief acquaintance with him I have become very fond of him.

[Wednesday, March 8, 1882 - Washington, D.C.] Senator Edmunds has the face of a Monkey and looks to me as if he would take the cats paw to put in the fire. I am not fully satisfied with the appearance of the Senate. They do not fill my anticipations as to fine looks, and while that body are much more dignified than the House the men themselves are no better looking. Members of the House are not up to my expectations. Today the Edmunds bill came up in the house and pending consideration of the same the House adjourned untill 12 tomorrow.

[Thursday, March 9, 1882 - Washington, D.C.] Bro. Cannon introduced J. I. Hart and myself to Speaker Kieffer and we presented to him the petitions of the people of Utah. TTT Mens petition signed by 12,278 Womens ” “ 15,001 Young men ” “ 13,035 Young women ” “ 10,966 Total ” “ 51,380

Bro. Cannon, Hart and myself made the matter of Congressional action in the Utah case a matter of fasting and prayer.

[Saturday, March 11, 1882- Washington, D.C.] Mr. Ainslie of Idaho took Bro. Hart and myself over to see the President and we were introduced to him as being both from Idaho. We shook hands and passed out into the large reception Hall and I guess the finest room in the United States. Chester A. Arthur is a large fine looking [p.76]man. From the White house Bro. Hart and Myself went to the Smithsonian Institute, the National Museum and the department of agriculture.

[Monday, March 13, 1882 - Washington, D.C.] I presented the memorial of the Utah legislature to Congress to Speaker Keifer who presented them to the House. Mr. Haskell of Kansas called for Senate file 353 or more properly known as the Edmunds bill. Mr. Converse of Ohio made a point of order and which was just and right under the rules of the house.

[After discussion] The Speaker made a most dastardly ruling, both cowardly and Wicked. It was a strictly party vote, the democrats standing by law and order and the Republicans by misrule and misgovernment. It was a manly fight on the part of the democrats in the face of popular clamor. The democrats have resolved not to let the bill pass in its present form. What amendments they will secure is hard to tell, for the Republicans are bent on its going through just as it is. Today has been one of the most exciting of my life. The liberties of my people hanging on a thread and I powerless to do anything only sit and look on and ask the Lord to strengthen our friends and make them equal to the task.

[Tuesday, March 14, 1882 - Washington, D.C.] 10:30 a.m. the discussion of the Utah bill was resumed. I had made up my mind that the Republicans ment business and the democrats were begining to Weaken many of them. It was discussed pro & con for two hours, but no amendments were allowed. The yeas for the bill were 199. All the republicans, Independents and Greenbackers and some few democrats voted for the bill. 42 democrats voted no.

There are 51 who did not vote at all. The democrats who voted yea were opposed to the bill but their constituents had petitioned them to act and they could not in their judgement vote against the bill without ruining their chances for reelection.

The Republicans were filled with venom and were bent upon the acomplishment of their purpose. Haskell acted like a fiend, and I felt while he was talking down in front of the speakers desk, I should have been pleased to have been turned loose with him and fought in words or in a manly fight. God our father must judge these men for their evel design and doubt not he will do so in his own due time. I did not get excited or worried but felt I would like to fight it out with Mr. Haskell and the Republicans single and alone.

The work is done and all polygamists are disfranchised and turned out of office. Now we must wait and see whether persecution and all kinds of trickery is to follow this bill. Father thy will be done.13

[p.77][Wednesday, March 15, 1882 - Washington, D.C.] Bro. Cannon says he is willing to fight out his question and he finds that some of his friends are willing to stand by him.

Thursday, March 16, 1882 – Washington, D.C. Today a talk was had by Bros. Cannon, Hooper, Teasdell and myself about the organization of a state government and telegrams were sent to M. Thatcher to come on to Washington, and Capt. Hooper is to go on to Salt Lake City as soon as convenient.

Some of the democrats feel bad for our people that we are in a corner and that we cannot expect any quarter.

[Thursday, March 23, 1882 - Washington, D.C.] We made it a day of fasting and prayer.

[Friday, March 24, 1882 - Washington, D.C.] It is windy and cold. The Washington Post said this morning that President C. A. Arthur had signed the Edmunds bill.

I am feeling like the weather looks and that rather blue.

[Thursday, March 30, 1882 - Washington, D.C.] We bought our tickets today $26.00 each to Chicago.

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[Saturday, Oct. 28, 1882 - Salt Lake City] I bid my family good bye and William Groesbeck and myself left for our missions to Europe.

[Thursday, Nov. 2, 1882 - New York City] I found Bro. Jas. H. Hart and made some calls. I Bot pantaloons for myself. Paid $4.25. My expenses to this place have been $35.00.

5 p.m. I took steamer for Boston.

[Friday, Nov. 3, 1882 - Boston] I left here for Whitefield, N.H. and reached that place at 5:30 p.m. and stayed with my Uncle Webster Libbey.

[Saturday, Nov. 4, 1882 - Whitefield, New Hampshire] Weather fine. I visited my Uncles Charles, John, George, N. Webster and Henry and their wives. I also saw the family of my Uncle Colby.

They all seemed pleased to see me and treated me kindly. 2 p.m. I bid them all good bye and returned to Boston and put up at the United States Hotel.

[Monday, Nov. 6, 1882 - New York City] I had a pleasant trip and returned all right. Found William Groesbeck, Orson Arnold and James Clinton at the Grand Central Hotel where I also put up. I visited Richard Young on Governors Island and took dinner.

I went to the theatre. It was a good play.

[Tuesday, Nov. 7, 1882 - New York City] Bro. James H. Hart got a free ticket for me across the Ocean. I paid hotel bill $4.50. 2 p.m. we went on board of the Steamship Abyssinia. Bros. J. H. Hart, O. C. Arnold, James Clinton, and Richard Young went on board with us. We bid good bye to our friends and moved out into the river.

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[Sunday, Feb. 8, 1885 - Steamship Alaska] The wind has gone down and we are again made fast to the Lake Winnnipeg.

We reached Sandy Hook to late to cross the Bar, the tide having gone down, so we laid by until morning. 140 pounds was given to the officers and men by the Cabin Passengers.

The Captain says it was the worst weather he ever saw at sea.

[Monday, Feb. 9, 1885 - New York Harbor] Cold. C. E. Angell and I went ashore and passed the Customs alright and took luggage to Guions Offices. I then met several Elders and Sister Wells and son. B. Y. & C. P. Rose and I were in consultation together. It is very hot times in Utah.

[Thursday, Feb. 12, 1885 - Whitefield, New Hampshire] Very cold. I called upon my Uncle John and then went to my Uncle Charles who received me kindly and I spent the day with him and had a pleasant time. I received the following telegram

Salt Lake City, Feb. 12th, 1885

John Henry Smith Care Charles Libbey Whitefield, N. H.

Don’t come home until advised. George Reynolds

[p.133][Thursday, Feb. 19, 1885 - Whitefield, New Hampshire] Cold. I received a letter G. Reynolds. Several brethren are under indictment for Polygamy.

The evening [with Libbey relatives] was spent in discussing my faith. They all talked pretty strong but were cool enough when we got through. This uncle is very hard of hearing. Four of my uncles here are wealthy and two are just comfortable.

[Friday, Feb. 20, 1885 - Alderbrook, New Hampshire] My Uncle H. C. Libbey made me an offer to go into the glove business with him, he giving me some stock to take hold of and introduce the gloves in Utah.

[Sunday, March 1, 1885 - Whitefield, New Hampshire] I went to the Methodist or rather the Baptist prayer meeting and had a very pleasant time. A very good spirit prevailed.

[Tuesday, March 3, 1885 - Whitefield and Alderbook, New Hampshire] I went round and bid all of my friends good by and took train for Alderbrook, the home of my Uncle Henry Clay Libbey. I found all well. He and I drove to Littleton, N.H. and looked through the Granite State Glove factory. He offered me one thousand dollars in stock for five hundred dollars.

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Chapter 2

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[Monday, Feb. 1, 1892 - Salt Lake City] Today the Republican convention met and nominated H. M. Wells for Mayor. The Republican ticket throughout was a good one. The Territorial Committee wants me to go on to Washington.

[Wednesday, Feb. 3, 1892 - Salt Lake City] The day was spent in doing a little of everything that presented itself. It is determined that Judge C. W. Bennett and I should go to Washington in regard to this statehood matter.25

[Thursday, Feb. 4, 1892 - Salt Lake City] I received the following from Coy. A. L. Thomas

Salt Lake City, Feby. 4, 92 Hon. M. S. Quay Senate Chamber Washington D.C.

My Dear Senator:

This will be handed you by Hon. John H. Smith, a Citizen of this City. I have known Mr. Smith for nearly thirteen years, and [know] him as an able and honest man and one in whom I have full Confidence. He is my friend, and any kindness or courtesy which you may show to him will always be remembered by yours truly.

Arthur L. Thomas

Salt Lake City, Utah Feby. 4, 1892 Hon. Attorney General Washington, D.C.

Dear Sir:

This will be handed to you by the Hon. John Henry Smith; he is a Utah born and raised and always a member of the Mormon church; he is one who has excellent standing and great influence among the Mormon people, and is greatly respected and esteemed by all good citizens; a republican from his childhood, whose republicanism was fixed by a conversation with [p.270]Hon. Wm. H. Seward, during his visit to this Territory in the 60′s. He is one of our trusted able workers, and one from whom we expect great results among the Mormon people, as well as among thinking men of all classes. He visits Washington on business, and desired to look into your face, and to become acquainted with you. I take pleasure in introducing him, and I believe the acquaintance will be mutually pleasant and I hope profitable.

           Very respectifully,
           E. H. Parsons
           U. S. Marshall

Salt Lake City Feb. 4 91 Hon. Henry L. Daws U.S. Senate Washington D.C.

Dear Sir,

Knowing your interest in Western affairs generally, and of those pertaining to Indian work particularly, I take great pleasure in introducing to you Hon John Henry Smith, a resident of this Territory from his childhood. Mr. Smith is one of the best republicans we have, and visits Washington in the interests of the Republican party; he wants especially to meet you, and I am going to the liberty to ask that you introduce him to your colleague Senator Hoar, and Senator Platt of Conn. as he desires to meet both gentlemen, and I think the introductions would be much better from you than from myself, as my [blank] with both of them is limited . . . Any Courtesy you are able to extend to Mr. Smith will be duly appreciated. . . .

           Very respectfully,
           E. H. Parsons
           U. S. Marshall

[Friday, Feb. 5, 1892] The day was spent in considering the public interest. Last evening Bros. G. Q. Cannon, Jos. F. Smith and F. M. Lyman blest me. C. W. Bennett left for the east this morning. I left on the evening train.

[Wednesday, Feb. 10, 1892 - Washington, D.C.] I put up at the Hotel Arlington. Met Judge M. M. Estee and Col. Isaac Trumbo. I called upon Senators R. Proctor, H. M. Teller, Stewart of Nevada and other gentlemen. I received the following

To Hon. James G. Blaine Secretary of State

My Dear Uncle,

Allow me to present Mr. John Henry Smith a prominent Mormon who is also a staunch Republican. He desires to meet and talk with you about the political situation in Utah. We shall appreciate the favor if you will grant him an interview.

           [p.271]Affectionately yours,
           Margaret B. M. Salisbury

Today the Utah contingent of the Democratic party made some talk before the Committee on Territories of the house. Mr. H. W. Smith did the talking. Also Judge Judd spoke.

[Thursday, Feb. 11, 1892 - Washington, D.C.] The Senate Committee on Territories met at 10 a.m. and Mr. H. W. Smith presented his argument in favor of home rule. I had a visit with Senators [Orville H.] Platt of Conn. and Senator [Joseph] Carey of Wyoming. By telegram from home last evening I learned that my son D. C. Smith had met with a severe accident.

[Friday, Feb. 12, 1892 - Washington, D.C.] The committee on Territories met and further Arguments were made by C. C. Richards, Judge Judd and F. S. Richards. Some feeling was raised by some questions raised by Senator Jones of Arkansas in regard to Exo Senator Ramsay and Senators Padock when on the Utah Commission as to certain rulings which were overturned by the U.S. Supreme Court.

[Saturday, Feb. 13, 1892 - Washington, D.C.] The Committee met at 10 a.m. F.S. Richards and J. S. Rawlings made their talks. The latter did not make a good impression.

[Monday, Feb. 15, 1892 - Washington, D.C.] I have spent the day about the Capital.

I called upon Senator Dubois in the evening and talked over Idaho Politics. Mr. C. W. Bennett is still in his cups.

The house committee on Territories heard speaches by the democrats. Judge M. M. Estee got back from New York.

[Tuesday, Feb. 16, 1892 - Washington, D.C.] Judge Anderson, Ex-Marshall Dyer and J. S. Rawlings made speaches on Home Rule before the house committee on Territories. I spent the evening with Representative Bartine of Nevada.

[Wednesday, Feb. 17, 1892 - Washington, D.C.] Mr. O. W. Powers made a speach against home Rule bill before the house Committee on Territories. He told several hard stories and then went after H. W. Smith in rattling shape and had telegrams by the yard denying Smith’s statements. I called upon Senator Cullom. Col. I. Trumbo got back this morning from New York. I called upon J. G. Blaine and had a nice chat with him.

[Thursday, Feb. 18, 1892 - Washington, D.C.] At 10 a.m. today [C. E.] Allen and O. W. Powers made their talks [p.272]before the Senate Committee. Allen was very bitter quoting largely from old time discourses.

[Friday, Feb. 19, 1892 - Washington, D.C.] The Liberals and Home Rule people had the day with the Senate and House too.

[Saturday, Feb. 20, 1892 - Washington, D.C.] Coy. West was heard before the Senate today He made a long talk in favor of home Rule. I went by train to New York.

[Sunday, Feb. 21, 1892 - New York City] Met H. B. Clawson, Spencer Clawson, J. F. Wells, G. Q. Cannon & Col. I Trumbo.

[Monday, Feb. 22, 1892 - Washington, D.C.] I returned to Washington and found Mr. C. W. Bennett intoxicated. The people of this City celebrated Washington’s birthday. I received a telegram from W. H. Rowe. See Caine’s Cypher. Salisbury says in addition to Clarkson’s influence get personal friends of Russell B. Harrison to get him to telegraph Governor urging appointment mentioned in my letter of ninteenth.

[Tuesday, Feb. 23, 1892 - Washington, D.C.] I received the following: You get ready and make a statement avoiding home Rule. C. M. Bennett and went to Senate. He spoke and made a vicious attack upon home Rule and spoke in favor of statehood. I followed for just a few moments and answered some questions and said I prefered the present Condition to home Rule. I telegraphed to Trumbo: Home Rule badly antagonized.

[Wednesday, Feb. 24, 1892 - New York City] I met Bros. G. Q. Cannon, H. B. Clawson and Col. Isaac Trumbo. We talked over the situation and concluded to let the matter remain. We visited the dog show and saw many dogs valued at $5,000.00 to $10,000.00 each.

[Thursday, Feb. 25, 1892 - Washington, D.C.] I bid my friends goodby and went to the B. & O. station and took train for Washington. Upon my arrival I was requested to appear before the House Committee on Territories.

[Friday, Feb. 16, 1892 - Washington, D.C.] I went before the house Committee on Territories and talked about three quarters of an hour. They treated me with great Kindness.

[Saturday, Feb. 27, 1892 - Washington, D.C.] I spent most of the day at the Capital. I read and revised my speach [p.273]of the day before. I had a short visit with Delegate Caine. At 8:15 p.m. I book B. & O. train for the West.

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Chapter 3

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[Tuesday, Aug. 15, 1893 - Salt Lake City] The Directos of Z. C. M. I. met at 12 noon and heard the monthly reports and passed upon several items of Interest. Bro. J. H. Barnes voted against approving the 45,000.00 excess of ntoes that Bro. H. J. Grant had just put out in New York. The Home Fire Directors met and refused to loan some of their securities.

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Chapter 4

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[Friday, Sept. 22, 1899 - Salt Lake City] Bp. Joseph L. Rawlins, Brigham Young, Geo. Q. Cannon, F. S. Richards, and Myself met and talked the Utah Lake matter.

J. Golden Kimball and I set apart eight Elders for missions. I blest my neice Margaret May Merrill for a mission to school at New York.

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[Monday, Oct. 23, 1899 - Salt Lake City] I secured the Pardon of Frank Farr from the Secretary of State and took my wife Sarah and Bell Christiansen in my Carriage and drove out to the Penitentiary.

We brought Frank away with us. Walter Farr is doing nicely. I called upon Sister Lambson who is very sick. Prest. Geo. Q. Cannon is dangerously sick at New York City of Pneumonia.

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[Tuesday, Jan. 23, 1900 - on train] I said goodbye to the Sears family and took train for Washington, D.C. Bp. H. B. Clawson was with me.

[Wednesday, Jan. 24, 1900 - Washington, D.C.] We changed cars and had a very pleasant run by way of Baltimore, Maryland to Washington, D.C. We put up at the Shoreham. I visited the Capital and met a few friends. I wrote letters to my Sons Winslow and Nicholas.

I sent an order on James Jack to each of my wives for fifty dollars.

[Thursday, Jan. 25, 1900 - Washington, D.C.] I visited the Museum and art Galery. It is an elegant Marbel structure. There are some fine Paintings and sculpture. In the evening I visited National Library Building. I believe it to be the finest structure in all the world.

Brigham H. Roberts was excluded from Congress by a vote of 268 to 50.

Senator Geo. L. Shoup of Idaho called upon me this evening and expressed to me the kindest of feelings.

[Friday, Jan. 26, 1900 - Washington, D.C.] It is an exceedingly raw cold day. I called upon Bro. B. H. Roberts and had quite a lengthy talk with him. He feels somewhat depressed in spirits but bears up in a reasonably good way. Judge G. W. Bartch has [p.445] arrived and is feeling well. We have concluded to remain at the Shoreham. We went to the Theatre in the evening.

[Saturday, Jan. 27, 1900 - Washington, D.C.] I called upon U.S. Senators Joseph L. Rawlins, Geo. L. Shoup, Shelby M. Cullom, [Mc? written between lines], C. D. Clark, and Congressman F. W. Mondell. All treated me nicely. I wrote to Lorenzo Snow.

[Sunday, Jan. 28, 1900 - Washington, D.C.] I was at the Hotel most of the day. I called up B. H. Roberts at the Metropolitan Hotel and found Senator Jos. L. Rawlins there. I had a short visit [with] them.

In the evening I gave a supper. The guests were Senator Joseph L. Rawlins, Genl. J. S. Clarkson, Judge G. W. Bartch, B. H. Roberts and H. B. Clawson. It cost $2.50 a plate, $5.00 room, and dollar each for three servants. We had a nice supper of some 12 courses.

All refused wine.

[Monday, Jan. 29, 1900 - Washington, D.C.] It is very cold. President Win. McKinley is 57 years old today. In company with Senator Geo. L. Shoup of Idaho, Bp. H. B. Clawson and I spent thirty minutes with the President. We had a pleasant talk on Utah affairs. I made some explanations as to family matters and the decadence [decrease] of plural relations and told him the Mormon people had kept faith. The President Introduced us to Secretary of War Root.

I spent the afternoon at the Capatol and had conversations with several senators and some Representatives. I believe that a constitutional amendment will not pass.

[Tuesday, Jan. 30, 1900 - Washington, D.C.] Judge Geo. W. Bartch, Bp. H. B. Clawson and myself called upon Gen. L. T. Michner at the Pacific building and had a nice visit.

He gave me a letter of Introduction to Representative Landis of Indiana. I called upon Senators Jones of Arkansas, C. M. Depew of New York, Geo. L. Shoup of Idaho, Penrose of Pennsylvania, Wm. M. Stewart of Nevada and McBride of Oregon.

I had a nice short visit with Littlefield of Maine and Landis of Indiana.

Bp. Clawson and I spent the evening with Mr. and Mrs. E. E. Foster at their Rooms at the Portner building. They live in a Flat on the seventh floor.

[Wednesday, Jan. 31, 1900 - Washington, D.C.] Bp. H. B. Clawson and I spent some time in listening to speaches both in the Senate and house. I had a short visit with Senator C. D. Clark, [p.446] Senator Geo. L. Shoup, O. J. Salisbury, C. O. Whittemore, H. B. Clawson, Judge Geo. W. Bartch and called upon Chairman Babcock of the National [Republican] Congressional Committee and talked over political affairs in the West. He promised to help us with money if he could and our showing could warrant it.

Bro. H. B. Clawson and I went to the Theatre to see the play “Why Smith left Town.”

I wrote letters to Don and Chase.

It was an extremely cold day.

[Thursday, Feb. 1, 1900 - Washington, D.C.] It is bitter cold for this City.

Bro. H. B. Clawson and I called at the Raleigh Hotel but failed to find Mr. Salisbury.

I wrote letters to Prest. Lorenzo Snow and my son George.

Bro. H. B. Clawson and I spent the afternoon at the Capitol. We met Senators Hoar of Mass., Cullum of Ill., Platt of Connecticut, Warren of Wy. and Shoup of Idaho, Mondell, the Representative from Wy.

Judge Geo. W. Bartch is busy as a Bee. He had a talk with the President today and was much pleased with it.

[Friday, Feb. 2, 1900 - Washington, D.C.] Cold. I spent most of the day at the Capitol.

I had an interview with Senator Allison of Iowa and he and Senator Shoup promised me that the proposed Amendment would not go into law.

I spent the evening at the Hotel with O. J. Salisbury, C. O. Whittemore, and Judge Bartch. The Judge left for home this evening.

I received a letter from Gen. L. T. Michner asking that the Deseret News be modified in its utterances.

We are told that the Committee on Judiciary will consider the proposed amendment business in a few days. Bro. H. B. Clawson and [I?] lent Judge Geo. W. Bartch $12.50 cash.

[Saturday, Feb. 3, 1900 - Washington, D. C.] I spent the night at the Lafayette Turkish Baths.

In company with H. B. Clawson and Senator Geo. L. Shoup we called upon the Postmaster General George Emery Smith and two of his assistants. We had a frank talk with him in regard to John C. Graham and he said he would leave Graham alone until the courts had passed upon the case. If he was found guilty they would give Jas. Clove a fair consideration.

I wrote letters to my wife Sarah and to my mother.

[p.447][Sunday, Feb. 4, 1900 - Washington, D. C.] Bp. H. B. Clawson and I had a nice visit with Speaker Henderson and Senator Shoup. We talked over mattrs in Utah quite frankly.

We had an elegant Dinner. I wrote letters to Josephine and my daughter Sarah.

[Monday, Feb. 5, 1900 - Washington, D. C. ] Bh. H. B. Clawson and I called up Senator Mark Hanna and had a short talk with him. We called upon Secretary Meiklejohn of the War department.

We then went and had a visit with 4th Assistant Postmaster General Bristow and talked over the J. C. Graham matter. He said he would do the best he could for him.

I spent two hours in the library building. I had a visit with Senator Thos. Casten of Montana. C. O. Whittemore took [me] to the land office and Introduced me to Commissioner Berger Herrmann.

[Tuesday, Feb. 6, 1900 - Washington, D. C.] I had short interviews today with Senators Chandler and Gallinger of New Hampshire.

I attended a lecture on Art.

I took a run over to Arlington Cemetery and enjoyed it very much.

[Thursday, Feb. 8, 1900 - Washington, D. C.] I wrote to President Lorenzo Snow.

Bp. H. B. Clawson and I had a nice visit with Gen. G. H. Williams. He promised to help us all he could consistently. We went to the Grand Theatre and where they had a variety of good things. I was laughing from Beginning to end.

[Friday, Feb. 9, 1900 - Washington, D. C.] I received letters from Senator Francis E. Warren and Judge Wm. M. McCarty. The latter gave a little history of Political affairs in Utah. He also sent me a check for $50.00. I wrote to Judge McCarty. I put both of Judge McCarty letters into the hands of Senator M. A. Hanna to read.

We spent the evening with Gen. George H. Williams and he gave us some information as to the actions of the house committee on Judiciary and a letter of Introduction to Hon. Jesse Overstreet.

[Saturday, Feb. 10, 1900 - Washington, D. C.] I called upon Mr. Mark Hanna and some other parties and had a short talk.

I spent the afternoon in the Capital and made an effort to see Senators Stephen B. Elkins and E. O. Wolcott.

[p.448]I had a Turkish Bath in the evening.

[Sunday, Feb. 11, 1900 - Washington, D. C.] Bro. H. B. Clawson and I visited the soldiers Home and Tried to find Seth Ford but we failed.

I spent the evening reading in the Doctrine and Covenants.

[Monday, Feb. 12, 1900 - Washington, D. C.] It rained all day. I got to see Mr. Jesse Overstreet and found him cold and stiff. Bp. H. B. Clawson and I went to the National Theatre in the evening. Primrose and Co. gave a good entertainment.

We mailed to President Lorenzo Snow all of the Resolutions introduced into the House of Representatives proposing to amend the Constitution of the United States in regard to Polygamy and Polygamous Cohabitation.

[Tuesday, Feb. 13, 1900 - Washington, D. C.] Bp. H. B. Clawson and me in company with Senator Geo. L. Shoup Called upon President Wm. McKinley. He received us nicely and said we should not be hurt. We had a good handshake and he seemed very happy. I told him I would do all I could for him but that he must not overestimate my strength.

I called upon Commissioner H. C. Evans and Commissioner Berger Hermann of the land office. Both wished to be Kindly remembered to my son Geo. A. Smith. Bp. H. B. Clawson and I called upon Sister Franklin S. Richards at the Riggs house. We left for New York at 10:30 p.m.

[Went to New York and met with missionaries, February 15; left for home, February 16.]

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[Monday, March 10, 1902 - Salt Lake City] It is a beautifull morning. Ben E. Rich and myself are to go to Washington, D.C. to see in regard to the question of the proposed amendment to the Constitution against polygamy. I was set apart thereto by President Joseph F. Smith.

[Sunday, March 16, 1902 - Baltimore, Maryland] It rained most of the day. I attended the Presbyterian Church in the morning and heard a nice sermon on Charity. I wrote to my children. I attended the services in the Catholic Cathedral. Father O’Gavin gave a fine sermon on the reason why the Catholics adored the Images of dead Saints.

[Tuesday, March 18, 1902 - Washington, D.C.] I called upon several parties in the Departments of the government, Congressman [George] Sutherland with me. I had an interview with Congressman [Franklin] Mondell of Wyoming, and Senators Kearns, M. A. Hanna, Francis E. Warren, [John] Spooner and others. Ben E. Rich joined [p.505]me. He having gone by way of Chattanooga. We sent a telegram to Prest. Joseph F. Smith. All was well.

[Wednesday, March 19, 1902 - Washington, D.C.] Ben E. Rich and Myself in company with Senator Thos. Kearns called upon President Theodore Roosevelt. He received us with open arms and expressed his personal regard for us and said he would do anything he could for us and that the proposed Constitutional amendment should not go through. I had a nice visit with Senator [William] Allison of Iowa and he said the [same]. We met others and all seem perfectly friendly and kind.

[Thursday, March 20, 1902 - Washington, D.C.] Ben E. Rich and I spent the entire day calling upon and visiting with Members of Congress and U.S. Senators.

[Friday, March 21, 1901 - Washington, D.C.] I had a nice visit with Senator Clarence D. Clark of Wyoming, a member of the Committee on Judiciary, and he promised me not to allow anything done in regard to our case if he could help it.

[Saturday, March 22, 1902 - Washington, D.C.] We called on the president who again received us with kindness and Warm expressions of regard. He said to us Senator Kearns was doing all he could for us.

I had a nice interview with Senator [Mark] Hanna and he said our people should receive no hurt and asked me to do all I could for the party success. I was Introduced to Post Master General Payne. The day was spent in making calls.

[Left Washington and visited missions in New York, Boston, and Chicago before returning home April 5.]

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Chapter 5

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