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Show 18 she does say, though it has a hint of what would today be considered the melodramatic, is so full of imagery that we repeat it: With what a sad heart I fashioned his snowy garments and placed roses on his still cold breast. How my heart ached in sympathy for his stricken mother.* The needle on the compass of Ellis's life was about to make a radical swing. She described how it happened. In that description we get a privileged view of Brigham Young and of Ellis's father and grandfather. July 11th President Young and party arrived at Mt. Pleasant to hold a two days' meeting. All was bustle and excitement. In the evening there was a party in the Hall. I went with Brother Amasa Tucker. There were many there with whom I had had some acquaintance before. Brother Franklin Richards soon recognized me and we had a very pleasant dance together. Elder Hyde, Brother Squires, Chariton Jacobs and many others followed in the wake. I enjoyed myself very much indeed. The next morning the meeting opened in a capacious bowery which had been erected for the occasion. The counsel and instruction given to the people were of the most exalting character. That day I saw the President watching me very closely. It was a puzzle to me. I could not understand why he should look at me so. I had never seen him except in the pulpit or some large assembly. In the evening there was another party. I went with Brother B - (Anna Eliza went with Brother Squires). The evening was not far advanced when I had the honor of an introduction to President Young. He invited me to dance, but the floor was filled so quickly we had to wait till next time. Though many offered to give him their places he would not allow it; he took me to a seat and sat down by me. We conversed for some time. He inquired how long I had been there and if I had heard from my grandfather and asked many questions concerning him (as he had been cut off from the church through the influence of unfriendly persons and I expect, too, that he had not done exactly as he should. Doubtless he has done many things that were very wrong, but he is my grandfather for all of that). I said all I could to soften his prejudice. He inquired if my father was there and said he would like to see him. I was almost astonished that I felt so much at ease in his presence, but his fatherly kindness almost entirely banished |
