Mr. Whitby. O yes! thank you, sir. I take in many tracts, and read through most of them. What tracts do you distribute?
Elder B. They are upon the principles taught by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Mr. W. The Latter-day Saints! Well, I cannot say that I exactly understand what their religion is. It is true, I hear a great deal about them, yet many things that I hear of them are so contradictory that I find it impossible to believe all. But if one fourth part of what is told me, is true, I must say that I cannot entertain a very high opinion of your religion. However, I think that every person ought to be at liberty to enjoy his own opinion, and I deem it especially wrong to condemn any party unheard. I make no profession of religion myself. My wife's sister, and her husband, are very staunch Wesleyans, and they tell me some extraordinary things of your people. But I always take a certain discount off what one religious person says of another's religion. Consequently I cannot believe all that Mrs. Whitby's sister and her husband tell me of your religion. And I think they are a little bigoted, for they sometimes say hard things of the Baptist and Church people, as well as of your people. But I have long wished to meet with one of the Latter-day Saint preachers, so that I might hear their own story, and I shall really consider it a favour if you will be pleased to give me a brief outline of your belief, that I may not judge your people wrongfully. I have a few leisure minutes just now.
Elder B. I shall only be happy to impart any information that may be beneficial to you, concerning our principles. I am aware that much misunderstanding prevails respecting the Latter-day Saints, and it is ever a pleasure to me to dispel that misunderstanding, and enlighten those who are willing to learn.
Mr. W. Thank you. But we won't stand at the door. Would you walk in and sit down?
Elder B. I will, with pleasure.
Mr. W. Allow me to put your hat away.
Elder B. Thank you.
Mr. W. [To his daughter] Mary, hand the gentleman a chair, and hang his hat up in the passage. [To Elder B.] Now, sir, if you will be good enough to enlighten my mind concerning your principles, I will listen attentively, and, whether I approve of them or not, I shall certainly consider myself under obligations to you.
Elder B. I will gladly comply with your request.