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Show 115 been in having such kind friends." However, she is forced to part with them after crossing the Missouri River. I am now traveling through my native state. What strange sensations fill my being. 'Twas here my parents dwelt, 'twas here that they loved and reared me for a number of years 'til the Gospel's voice called them to a home in the distant west. I again constructed a bed of a couple seats-and think I should have slept, had it not been for two little babies in the car that reminded me so much of my own sweet darling [Bert-not quite 14 months old]. Oh, I wonder if I will ever cease to feel this nervousness, this heartache at the sight or sound of a child. Milford assured me that he would take good care of them, and I know that I have no need to worry but OH I MISS THEM SO. But I must learn self control...14 Here the reader can see one of the obvious advantages in plural marriage: role differentiation. Milford's care of Ellis's three boys will be shared by Mary and Lizzie and Maggie who will include the boys in their own mothering season. Mary, thus far deprived of the pleasure of rearing a child of her own, takes little Burt to her heart as though he were her own-a great blessing to the infant and to Ellis. Saturday November 13th Bright morning-have just crossed the Mississippi River, 'tis by far the finest sight I have seen. The broad expanse of water rippling and sparkling in the sunlight while upon its surface float the Majestic steamer and the little ferry boat, while upon its banks are erected fine buildings of every size and description. To the east for miles can be seen extensive groves of timber. At four o'clock we reached that "terrible City" of Chicago, had to wait an hour, went out and bought some bread, wrote another postal card home. Here I had to make my last change in cars before I reached my destination-and when once on board the cars felt quite at ease. Another night passed and Sunday morning found me weary but thankful that the last day of my journey had come. What sweet thoughts I had of my home and my darlings. The scenery along the Ohio River was delightful and I enjoyed its beauty exceedingly. During the evening I became engaged in a conversation with a fine old |