"If all the ministers in the world were to pray for you they could not save you."
After further conversation he requested me to continue my prayers, believing the Lord would answer. I did as he told me several nights more, but without success.
As soon as William H. Scott was identified with the Latter-day Saints he became a zealous and energetic member, and was desirous that all those whom he was acquainted with should embrace the gospel. Working together in the same establishment—in the same room—we had a good opportunity to converse upon any topic that presented itself. I told William concerning my interviews with the Baptist minister, and that I had been praying nightly to the Lord to obtain forgiveness of my sins, but, seemingly, without effect.
William listened attentively and eagerly to my story. He had wished, hoped and even prayed that I should be convinced of the latter day gospel. But I told him I could not see clearly into the principles taught by the Latter-day Saints.
One evening shortly after this (the early part of August, I think) feeling as if my continued prayers for a newness of heart were in vain, I made up my mind to try once more, and if I experienced no difference, would give up the idea of becoming identified with the Baptists and would try the "Mormons."
That same morning while at work, William conversed with me again on the principles advocated by the Latter-day Saints, and smilingly said:
"You'll have to join the `Mormons.'"
While conversing with him I experienced a heavenly feeling; a mist came over me, I felt within me an influence I had never before realized. The principles and doctrines of the latter-day gospel came clearly before me. The Spirit of the Lord was with me, and I received a testimony of the truth of "Mormonism"—a testimony which I shall never forget. I was supremely happy, rejoicing with "joy unspeakable." I told William I was ready for baptism and asked him to introduce me to the Saints the next Sunday.
[CHAPTER II.]
THE FIRST LATTER-DAY SAINT MEETING—WILLIAM H. SCOTT HAS AN INTERVIEW WITH MY MOTHER—SHE FORBIDS ME HAVING ANYTHING TO DO WITH THE "MORMONS."