In Rome We Do as Rome Does

Monday, June 26, 1905.  Carlisle.

We spent most of the day in study preparing to meet our opponent.  We went to the River Eden to study in the afternoon or evening.  We went to Sister Atkinson's, remaining there quite late.  We had supper there then returned home and retired to rest.

Tuesday, June 27, 1905.  Carlisle.

This forenoon we studied on the bank of the Eden till noon.  After dinner we went tracting at Newtown.  Met with fair success.  On returning home we learned that Elder Hyde of Middleboro, had come to visit us.  We came to lodge and were there only a few minutes when he came.  We were very pleased to see him.  After tea, we all went out on the street and held a street meeting.  Elder Hyde and I were the speakers.  Quite a number gathered after the meeting.  We all went to Sister Atkinson's and spent the evening.  Had an enjoyable time.  Then came home.

Wednesday, June 28, 1905.  Carlisle.  Co. Cumberland.

We spent the forenoon in the lodge studying and writing.  After we ate dinner, we went to the Public Baths and took a swim.  Had a fine time.  After leaving the baths, came to lodge and studied the Mutual lesson.  In the evening, we went to Mutual at No. 7 Regent Terrace.  Had a nice meeting, after which we returned home.

Thursday, June 29, 1905.  Carlisle.  Co. Cumberland.

About noon, Elder Hyde came to the lodge.  We had dinner.  Then went to make calls on some of the people.  After finishing, we went to Upperby to see Sister Lightfoot.  She prepared a fine meal for us.  Strawberries and Cream was the most striking dish.  We left there time enough to walk to the Hall to hold the meeting we had appointed the Sunday previous to denounce the untruths that were told about us by the Revivalist Maplesdon.  There were quite a number of people gathered.  Elder Everett spoke first proving those things which were uttered by Mapledon to be false.  Elder Hyde spoke a while after which the meeting was open to questions.  Two gentlemen opposed.  We answered their questions.  They got up and left the meeting which soon afterward closed.  All except those two men were pleased.  I might say Maplesden did not show up.  After the meeting, we went to Sister Atkinson's where we spent a pleasant evening.  Returning to the lodge late, we retired.

Friday, June 30, 1905.  Carlisle.  Co. Cumberland.

We spent the forenoon as usual studying and writing.  Also a good part of the afternoon.  At 7:30 P.M. we went to the Cross and held a street meeting.  Had quite a nice crowd.  Elder Hyde and Everett were the speakers.  After meeting, we went and called on a Mrs. Weatheral having received an invitation.  We came from there to Sister Atkinson's.  Elder Eccles who had been labouring in the Scottish mission had some there to visit.  We were very pleased to meet him.  We all spent a pleasant evening together.  Elder Eccles had a violin and Atkinson's had a Mandolin and guitar and my companion a mouth-organ.  So we had some fine music.  After supper, my comp and I took our leave home.

Saturday, July 1, 1905.  Penrith.  Co. Cumberland.

Elder Hyde came to the lodge about 11 A.M. and we went downtown.  Went through the market, and other places then to the station to see when a train left for Penrith.  We found it left at 1:20.  The London and North West.  We hurried back to lodge.  Had dinner.  Got ready and returned to the station.  Took the train.  Penrith is a most beautiful town, with a population of over nine thousand.  In January of 1905, Elder Hyde and White had opened a field in Penrith, but due to a scarcity in the Newcastle Conference, they were taken from there and stationed in other fields.  During the two short months they were there, they made many friends and it was our privilege to visit them.  Our first call was a Mrs. Nicholas where the Elders had lodged.  She was glad to see us and treated us fine.  We went to her married daughter's home and received the same warm welcome.  From there we went and visited the old St. Andrews Church.  The janitor showed us all over and explained the ancient history to us connected with that church.  We had the privilege of visiting the grace of the great giant whose length was sixteen feet.  The head stone of his grave was very high, pinnacle shaped as also the foot stone.  It was a striking novelty to witness their ancient extraordinary grave of the giant.  Leaving the old St. Andrews church, we passed through some of the narrow streets till we came to Scotland road.  Following up it a distance, we came to a farm house, where lived a Mr. Robison and family.  The Mr. Robison was ill in bed with Rhumatics.  He enjoyed our visitant talk on the Gospel.  When we were leaving, the young lade gave us a bunch of roses.  Leaving there we pursued our way up the hill to visit a very historical point known as Beacon Pike which is a red sandstone structure on top of a peak.  It was used anciently as a watch tower or a signal tower when the enemy was approaching.  They could be seen coming as this tower stands on the highest hill in that locality.  We chiseled our names in the base of their tower.  Leaving there we returned to the city.  The decent was very steep.  We decided to hold a street meeting before leaving Penrith.  So after the Salvation Army finished their meeting, we took the position at the cross.  Elder Hyde spoke.  We had a large crowd gathered to hear us, all of which were interested in what was said.  We distributed many tracts among the people.  One of the most interesting features of Penrith is Pres. John Taylor spent his boyhood days there.  He served his appentticeship there as a turner or joiner.  He also studied for the Methodist Ministry there and done his first preaching there.  Back to the subj. after our meeting we went to the station to catch our 8:45 train but was four minutes late, so we had to remain till five to ten.  So we took a walk down to the river which divides the counties of Cumberland and Westmoreland.  It was farther down than we thought so we could see we were going to miss our train, we began to run back.  My how we did run to catch it all.  We got on the wrong road.  We took us a round about way.  Well if we were not in it, when we seen we would not make it by going around that road we began to cut through fields, climb over rock walls.  I never run so hard and far in my life.  We were completely tuckered out and sweat.  We were soaked through and through.  Well, we just did make it, took our train to Carlisle.  Before close I with to relate the visit we paid the old Penrith Castle which is very notable with its old walls.  The armies of Cromwell had blown part of it down.  The bullet mark could be seen on the walls or rather the places where the cannon balls struck.  When we arrived in Carlisle, we went to Sister Atkinson's.  Had supper then home.  Tired out after our run and climb.

Sunday, July 2, 1905.  Carlisle.

Today is fast day.  At 2:30, we went to Sunday School which was given over to testimony bearing.  All the Saints felt well and bore faithful testimonies.  After Sunday School, Elder Everett and I went to Sister Taylor's for tea, returning in the evening to services.  Elder Eccles and Hyde were the speakers.  A good spirit prevailed.  After the hall meeting, we went out on the street to hold a meeting.  We had a fine crowd.  Elder Hyde spoke first treating briefly the Articles of Faith.  Elder Eccles spoke next upon the Manifestations of the Spirit.  After meeting we went to No. 7 Regent Terr.  Spent the evening and returned home and retired.

Monday, July 3, 1905.  2 Aglionby St.  Carlisle.

The forenoon was spent as usual in writing and study.  About 3 P.M. Elder Everett and I went down to the hall.  Straightened the chairs and cleaned up the hall.  On leaving there, we went to the station to meet President Eccles and wife of the Scottish conference who were on the way home, but laid over here a day or two, to visit.  We met them and went with them to Sister Atkinson's where tea was awaiting us.  A party had been appointed to be held at the hall in honour of them, but some of the Saints did not know any thing of it.  So Elder Everett and I rode to Weatherel on bicycles to let Bro. Porter know of it.  We were only gone an hour, distance ten miles.  When we came back, went tot he hall where all had assembled.  We spent a very pleasant evening.  Had music, singing, reciting.  Also played games and partook of a supper.  Pres. Eccles, his wife, and son Stewart and also Elder Hyde spoke briefly as a farewell speech.  At 12, we dismissed and went homeward.

Tuesday, July 4, 1905.  2 Aglionby St.  Carlisle.

Well, we didn't arise this morning and fire off cannons, as we had done previous years, but when we are in Rome we do as Rome does.  About 11 o'clock, Elder Hyde came from where he was stopping to take diner with us.  After which, he, Elder Everett, and I started for Wetherel to visit Bro. and Sister Porter.  After the five mile walk out the country road we arrived.  It was a most beautiful walk, the farmers were haying.  The fragrance of the new mown hay was beautiful.  How homelike it seemed. Sister Porter prepared a nice meal for us, which we enjoyed.  We went out in the garden and are currants, gooseberries, and green peas.  After speaking a few hours there, we set out homeward.  After arriving in Carlisle, we went to Sister Taylor's.  Took tea, played, and sang and spent a pleasant evening.  Then went to Sister Atkinson's.  Remained there a while.  Came home.  After prayers, we went to roost.

Wednesday, July 5, 1905.  2 Aglionby St.  Carlisle.

On arising this morning, we had our breakfast and studied till noon.  I also wrote home.  About 4 o'clock in the evening, we went to the station to see Pres. Eccles, his wife, and son off.  After they left, Elders Hyde, Everett, and I went to Bro. Armstrong's for a short time.  Then came back to the lodge.  Had tea.  In the eve, then went to No. 7 Regent Terrace.  Returned later and retired.

Thursday, July 6, 1905.  Went to South Shields.

This morning we arose at 7 A.M. Had breakfast, went to the station to catch the 8:15 train for South Shields.  The train had nineteen coaches and all were packed full of people.  What a nice ride we had spinning through the green fields and woods down through the Tyne valley.  The scenery was beyond description.  Arrived at Shields at 11:15.  Elder White met us at the station.  Took us to the lodge.  We had dinner and went to the sea coast.  Went away out on the Pier and on the sands, then we returned to the lodge.  Then down to the hall.  Pres. Adams, Elders Taylor, and Wootton of Sunderland.  Also, Elder Hazen and Brady of Walksend, White and Riches of Shields, and Elder Hyde of Middlesboro.  Elder Everett and myself of Carlisle met in Priesthood meeting.  We had a nice meeting, and we all expressed our selves in regard to our labors.  After meeting, we went to the Park and from there to the lodge.  Had tea.  Thence to the train to return to Carlisle.  Elder White came to Carlisle with us on a visit.  Train left at 7:25 P.M. and arrived in Carlisle 10:30 P.M.  We came to lodge and retired.

Friday, July 7, 1905.  2 Aglionby St.  Carlisle.

Elder Everett and I spent the forenoon stamping tracts in the afternoon.  We went tracting up to Newtown while Elder White went visiting the Saints, in the evening we went for a walk down to the river.

Mandolins and Angels

Sunday, June 18, 1905.  Carlisle.  Cloudy and rainy.

On arising this morning, made out our weekly report and sent it in.  At one o'clock, dinner was ready.  Consisted of roast beef, potatoes, cabbage, lettuce, rice pudding, rhubarb.  After dinner, we prepared to go to Sunday school.  At 2:30 Sunday School began.  I presided.  Theological class had for subject "Faith".  All were well prepared.  After Sunday School, we went to No. 7 Regent Terr for tea.  Returning at 6 P.M. for services.  I was first speaker, subject "Apostasy".  Elder Everett spoke last, subject "the mission of the Holy Ghost".  Meeting let out at eight o'clock.  Due to the stormy weather, we did not hold outdoor meeting, but went to Sister Atkinson's to spent the evening.  Also had supper, and took a lesson on Mandolin.  Returned home.  Retired.

Monday, June 19, 1905.  Carlisle.  Raining.

It being stormy, we spent the morning studying.  In the afternoon, we went up to Sister Taylors.  Spent the afternoon and evening.  Mary Lydia played the piano while we practiced a song to sing in Mutual entitled "God bless our mountain home".  We also had tea with them.  The evening was spent very enjoyable.  Late in the evening, we returned home and retired.

Tuesday, June 20, 1905.  Carlisle.

Arose this morning about 8:30.  Spent the forenoon writing and studying.  In the afternoon, we called on Bro. Armstrong.  Afterwards on Sister Taylor.  Returning in the evening.

Wednesday, June 21, 1905.  Carlisle.

Spent the forenoon writing studying.  IN the afternoon, went tracting to Newtown.  Had quite good success.  Returning from tracting, we went to Mutual at No. 7 Regent Terrace.  I presided.  All were well prepared on the lesson.  Elder Everett and I sang a duet "God bless our mountain home".  After a profitable and well spent evening, meeting adjourned for one week.  Sister Atkinson prepared supper after mutual and we partook the same.  Then returning home.

Thursday, June 22, 1905.  Carlisle.

The forenoon was spent as usual.  In the afternoon, we went down to pay the Hall rent.  From there went to Upperby.  Tracted during the afternoon that village.  After finishing, we called on Bro. & Sister Lightfoot.  Took supper with them and took our departure for home.  While passing along the road, we noticed some men holding street meetings.  We pulled in to listen to them.  When they finished they passed us some tracts.  We asked them some questions.  They couldn't answer us.  They went on calling us all manner of names.  We were disgusted and left them with a promise to meet them next night in debate at our lodge.  We then came home.

Friday, June 23, 1905. Carlisle.

The fornenoon was spent in study as were were expecting the gentlemen we met the night before to come to the lodge to meet us on the Gospel.  Therefore we prepared to receive them, but they did not come and we were disappointed as we had decided to give them all the Gospel they wanted.  We took a walk down to the river after we found they were not coming.  Returning, we retired.

Saturday, June 24, 1905.  Carlisle.

Today we studied.  Most of the time in the evening we held two Street meetings.  I spoke at the first and Elder Everett spoke at the last one, which was held at the cross.  We had nice crowds who listened very attentively.

Sunday, June 25, 1905.

At 2:30 P.M. we were at Sunday School.  Had a nice class.  Our subject in the theological class was Repentance.  After Sunday School, we went to Sister Atkinson's for tea.  Returning at 6 P.M. for services.  Had a fine meeting, the speakers being Bro. Lightfoot, Porter, and Elder Everett and I.  After meeting, we all went out on the street to hold street meeting.  I spoke first, then Elder Everett.  We had a fine crowd, who all listened very attentively.  When we dismissed a young man rushed to the front and began to speak, warning the people to steer clear of the Mormons.  Telling them we were Devils appearing as angels of light.  Saying all manner of evil against us.  When he finished, a Mr. Maplseden, a revivalist from Boston arose and began to rip us up the back for farther orders, he touched on a good many subjects trying to disprove our doctrines even talking of things he knew nothing of.  He wound up about 10 P.M., not leaving us time to disprove him.  We arose and told the crowd it was too late to disprove what he had said and if the would all come to No. 47 Scotch St on the following Thursday, we would disprove all he had said.  Then we departed.  We went to Sister Atkinson's, then home.

Visit to Carlisle - 113 Years Later

Our family visited Carlisle last week and attended church with the local branch.  We didn't meet anyone at church that had connections to the area before the 1950's, but the branch president did introduce us to someone who is working on the history of the LDS Church in England, so maybe some of Willard's experiences will be included in that history!

To commemorate our visit, below are some pictures from around Carlisle along with Willard's journal entry from exactly 113 years before our visit.

Saturday, July 8, 1905.  2 Aglionby St.  Carlisle.  Nice weather.

Today Elder Everett and I went visiting some people, in fact, three families who are investigating the Gospel.  We had nice talks with them.  On returning to lodge, had tea.  Elder White came from visiting the Saints.  We three went out to hold street meetings.  Had two fine meetings, the first in Kings street where I preached, and the other at the Cross.  Elders White & Everett spoke.  After street meeting, we went to Sister Atkinson's for our laundry, then home.  Retired quite late.

At the branch building.  Built in 1950's or 1960's -- this wasn't there during Willard's time.

The Carlisle Market Cross in 1898 where Willard preached during his mission.

Our visit to the Carlisle Market Cross.

Our visit to the Carlisle Market Cross.

Visit to the building where Willard lived.

Inside the Carlisle Castle that Willard visited multiple times.

Outside the Carlisle Castle.

Outside the Carlisle Cathedral - Willard visited here as well.

A building that said "Atkinson" on it and we thought we'd have a picture in remembrance of our great-grandmother.

A building from the 1800's near the Carlisle Cathedral.

10 Days in June 1905

Thursday, June 8, 1905.  Carlisle.  Fine day.

This morning we packed Elder Choules trunk.  Afterwards we went to Sister Atkinson's to get some of his things.  Returning we had dinner, then went to the station to see Nellie Graham off for America, but was just a few minutes late.  Leaving there, we had a man convey Elder Choules' trunk to the station.  We then telegraphed the trunk.  In the remaining part of the afternoon, we went to the beautiful Eden to study.  After returning went to visit Sister Taylor.  Returned at 11 P.M. Retired.

Friday, June 9, 1905.  Carlisle.  Fine day.

This forenoon we spent in the lodge writing & studying.  In the afternoon, we prepared some tracts.  Went to Newtown and began tracting.  Found much indifference month the people.  While some were very reasonable in their views.  After finishing tracting, we returned to the lodge.  Remaining there, studied till bed time.

Saturday, June 10, 1905.  Carlisle.  Fine day.

In the forenoon, we went down to the Hall.  Helped clean it for Sunday.  Mary Lydia Jones assisted.  In the afternoon, we went to the park to study and see the sights.  On this particular day, there was an excursion from Scotland.  Train loads of the Scotch people had come down to spend the day in Carlisle.  They were gathered at the park having a jolly time.  Bands were playing.  The young men and women were dancing on the lawns, having a fine time.  We looked on for a considerable time, then returned home to prepare for street meeting.  We held two street meetings tonight.  One in Tate St. the other on the cross.  I was the speaker in the first and my companion at the next.  Quite a number of people listened to us.  After the meetings we went to Atkinson's.  Had supper.  Got our laundry and returned home.  Retired.

Sunday, June 11, 1905.  Carlisle.  Nice day.

Arose this morning.  Had breakfast.  Studied our Sunday School lesson.  At 2 P.M. we went to the Hall.  Sunday School commenced at 2:30.  Had a nice school.  The theological class studied the Degrees of glory.  After S.S. we went to No. 7 Regent Terrace [Atkinson home] for tea.  Returning at 6 P.M. for services, our Hall was crowded with strangers and Saints.  A fine meeting resulted.  A fine spirit was present.  I was first speaker and Elder Everett spoke next.  After meeting we went out on the street and held a meeting.  We had a fine crowd.  110 tracts were distributed.  After the meetings, we went to Sister Atkinson's for supper.

Monday, June 12, 1905.  Carlisle.  Fine day.

Today, being one of England's national holidays, known as [Aitsnow?tide?], all work was suspended and the multitudes of England unite in pleasure.  Cheap rates are given on all rail roads to all points.  Therefore people congregate from far and near to celebrate.

My companion and I were unable to do any missionary work so thoughts we would also unite in the pleasure pastime.

So we in company with a body of the Saints took a trip to the noted Corby and Wetheral on the banks of the river Eden.  Left Carlisle on the 1:25 P.M. train.  Spent the afternoon on the Corby side of the river.  In the evening, crossed by boat to the Weatheral side of the river.  Following the river up some distance among the woods and rock that encompass the river.  Among these rocks are many notable caves that were used in olden times as hiding places from the enemy.  On the Corby side of the river is the noted Corby Castle, we are told that Cornwall and his army follow down this river  and besieged this Castle and the caves.  Later in the evening, we went farther down the river to Bro. Porters'.  A fine supper was awaiting us.  After it, we took another trip up a past the Church into the woods.  Spent an hour or so there reading and talking.  Later returned to Bro. Porters.  Prepared to leave for Carlisle.  After a five mile walk arrived tired out at 11:30 P.M.

Tuesday, June 13, 1905.  Carlisle.

We were quite fatigued from our yesterday's journey.  Therefore today we remained indoors and studied.  In the evening we went to visit Bro. & Sister Sanders.  We went from there to Atkinson's.  Found them well, but tired through the effects of their trip.  Late in the evening we returned home.

Wednesday, June 14, 1905.  Carlisle.

Forenoon was spent in the lodge.  After diner we set out to call on a man who keeps a wallpaper store on Lowther St.  Had a conversation with him.  After returning to lodge, got ready and went to Mutual at No. 7.  [Atkinson home] Had a fine meeting after which we came home and retired.

Thursday, June 15, 1905.  Carlisle.

This morning we went out tracting to Newtown.  I had very good success on one side of the street.  Had a number of conversations, but when I cross over to the other side, found cold indifference.  I guess they seen me coming.  In the afternoon, we called on Sister Taylor.  Took tea.  Practised a song.  From there, called on Sister Lightfoot, then home.

Friday, June 16, 1905.  Carlisle.

This morning we equipped ourselves with books and tracts.  Took our journey to Newtown.  Tracted till dinner meeting with fair success.  Not wanting to walk home for dinner, we bought some cakes and cheese and a meat pie each.   Found a shady spot beneath a large treee and ate our dinner.  After which we laid on the grass and went to sleep.  Woke up at 2 P.M.  Started tracting again.  I met many friendly people.  Conversed with them upon the Gospel.  After we finished our days work, we came home.  After supper, went to Atkinson's, returning late in the evening.

Saturday, June 17, 1905.  Carlisle.  Raining in the afternoon.

Spent the forenoon at lodge studying.  In the afternoon, we went to call on some investigators.  Called first at Mrs. Clarks.  From there, went to se others, but they were absent.  Came home, had supper, wrote up our journals.  Then went to Atkinson's to get our laundry.  We held a fine street meeting this evening.  Had a fine crowd who listened very attentively.  I was the first speaker treating "the Mission of John the Baptist".  Showing the necessity of a similar work today.  Elder Everett spoke next "Proving the Mission of the Book of Mormon" and its value to the world as a evidence of the bible.  We distributed among the crowd three hundred sixteen tracts.  A Baptist preacher apposed on some of our doctrine.  A large crowd surrounded us to hear the discussion which went off very well.  After which we separated friendly.  We went to our lodge and at 11 P.M. retired.

Kensit Preachers and Four or Five Hundred People

Interesting experiences with Kensit Preachers and their congregation.



Thursday, June 1, 1905.  Carlisle.  Fine day.

Today being the first of June, also a beautiful day, we through invitation from Sister Taylor to accompany her and company on a picnic party to the beautiful Talkin Tarn.  We were ar the depot at 1:50, teetering there the company as follows: Sister Taylor, her two daughters Mary Lydia and Eva, and a Mrs. Smith, Miss Bashford, and Mr. Fred Wetherel, my companion Elder Everett and Myself made up the company.  After a ten mile ride, arrived at Brampton Station, walking a half mile from there we arrived at the rest.  The lake is very beautiful, surrounded by trees and grass.  Also on its shores are boat houses, boating being the main attraction.  On the opposite side of the lake was the Temperance Hotel where we ate picnic after which we went boating.  Elder Everett and I rowing, it was  fine sport.  After anchoring on shore, we took out leave for the station.  Taking the 8 P.M. train for Carlisle, arriving at the station we bade the company good night.  We came to the lodge, then went from there to Upperby to call on Bro. and Sister Lightfoot.  Had supper there then returned to the lodge about 11:30 P.M.  After prayer retired to rest.

Friday, June 2, 1905.  Carlisle.  Fine day.

We spent most of the day indoors today, writing up our journals and studying.  The main events that transpired today was the visit we received from a Church of England Minister who came to call on our land lady (Mrs. Harper) but she not being in, I answered the door and gave the Rev. Carrick R. Deckin an invitation in.  He responded and a Gospel Conversation followed.  But he would not talk a great deal on the Gospel.  After he left, we went to call on a Salvation Army General who had been reading the Book of Mormon.  He said it was just a novel written by man, that it was not inspiring and so on.  Finally, he got on the Gospel.  We let him go on and till all he knew.  Then we started in on him.  Met his argument with good sound scripture and reasoning and in nearly every instance he cut his own throat when he would see he was beat.  He would let in on Brigham Young.  We told him to please leave that dead man along, and defend himself from the scriptures.  Prove to us where the scriptures teach [peniten?] forms and why they did not teach baptism, repentance, and the reception of the Holy Ghost, we told him.  Well did the prophet Isaiah say 24-6 "They will transgress the laws, change the ordinances, and break the everlasting covenants." Paul to Tim, "The time will come when they will to endure sound doctrine, but after the own lusts heap to themselves teaching having itching ears. And they shall turn away from the truth and be turned unto fables." We bore our testimonies to him and left.  We called on a lady by the name of Mrs. Walkder.  Had a chat with her and her husband after which we came to lodge.  After prayer, we retired.

Saturday, June 3, 1905.  Carlisle.  Fine day.

We were not able to go tracting today, therefore spent the forenoon and part of the afternoon in study.  About 4 o'clock in the evening went down to call on an investigator (Mrs. Glesbee).  After returning from there, we went to the barber.  I had a hair cut.  From there went to call on a Church of England Minister.  I loaned him my Book of Mormon.  Had a short conversation with them, then returned to Atkinson's.  Had tea.  Came down to hold street meeting, but the Kensit Preacher occupied the Cross [Carlisle Market Cross] and did not close till 10 P.M. which was too late for us.  We left.  Went to Atkinson's then returned to the lodge.

Sunday, June 4, 1905.  Carlisle.  Fine weather.

Arose this morning at 10 A.M.  Came down stairs.  Wrote a letter to Pres. Adams.  At 2 P.M. we went to the Hall to be ready to commence Sunday School. It being fast day day, time was occupied in testimony bearing. A good spirit prevailed.  The Saints bore strong to the Gospel.  After S.S. [Sunday School], we went to Sister Atkinson's for tea.  Returning at 6 P.M. for evening services, we had a good meeting.  I was first speaker treating the Holy Ghost.  Elder Everett occupied the remainder of the time distinguishing between Latter-day Saint  doctrine and the doctrine of the world.  After our hall meeting, we went out on the street to hold [a meeting] but found conditions unfavorable to begin a meeting.  Then, as the Kensit preachers were occupying the place, we waited a half hour till they finished.  Then we began.  The Kensit congregation came over to us.  After we sang, prayer was offered.  Elder Everett was first speaker and he spoke fine.  An excellent spirit was manifest.  All present paid strict attention.  I spoke next while Elder Everett passed tracts.  During the course of the meeting, we were opposed by the Kensit preachers, there being about ten of them.  We told them we would answer any reasonable question if they would accompany us to no. 47 Scotch Street after our meeting.  They agreed.  When we closed, we went to the Hall.  By the time we arrived, there were about four or five hundred people waiting patiently to get in to hear the discussion.  A policeman was at the door to keep order.  When we arrived, the police said "clear away and let these gentlemen in."  As we passed him, we told him not let any one in except the Kensit preachers.  About 20 crossed in and we locked the door on the remaining throng.  Entering the hall, we lit up and prepared to meet our opponents.  When all was in readiness, they presented their question.  Baptism is not essential to Salvation taking their text from 1 Corinthians 1-17.  Paul said, I came not to baptise, but to preach the Gospel.  This we met very easy.  There were other questions they asked and we answerd these without much difficulty. John 3:5 we were asked to explain which we did.  We remained with them till about 11 o'clock at which time they left and we departed to the lodge.  Retired afterwards.


Monday, June 5, 1905.  Carlisle.  Cloudy.

This forenoon we went to the photographers to see about some photos.  From there we went to the Park.  Spent the forenoon in study.  Leaving there we went up around the Castle.  Walked up the trail Mary Queen of Scots trod for recreation during her eight years of imprisonment in the Castle.  We spent part of the afternoon studying.  In the evening we called on Sister Atkinson and family.  Returning at 11 P.M. retired to rest.

Tuesday, June 6, 1905.  2 Aglionby St. Carlisle.  Cloudy.

Forenoon was spent in writing up my journal. Afternoon we studied till 7 P.M. after which we went down to the Cross to listen to the Kensit preachers.  From there we called at Bro. Armstrong's.  He not at home, we went to Bro. & Sister Sanders.  Spent an hour there.  Then went to Sister Atkinson's.  Had supper then returned home.  board 8-5.

Wednesday, June 7, 1905.  Carlisle.  Warm but windy.

Spent the forenoon in the lodge.  In the afternoon, took some tracts and went to Upperby.  Visited a few homes with tracts, then went to Sister Lightfoot'd.  I cobbled by shoes.  Also, Elder Everett's supper was prepared and we partook of it.  At 7:30 we left for Atkinson's to hold Mutual. After Mutual we remained a while.  Returning home about 11 P.M. and retired.

The Walk Through the Country Lanes and Fields Was Grand

Some interesting nuggets.

- helped console a mother who lost a young child to a tragic accident (May 28)
- sang a duet with his future wife, Hannah -- a "most striking feature of the program" (May 31)

Thursday, May 25, 1905.  Bonnie Carlisle.  Fine day.

After having breakfast, went down to the River Eden to spend the forenoon in study.  On the river side, the scenery is very beautiful.  Seats or benches are placed there for the benefit of the public.  The grand and trees make it very pleasant for a resting place to study.  Much of our time is spent there in rehearsing scriptures and conversing on the Gospel.  We returned to lodge.  Had dinner, then went tracting, commencing where we left off the day before.  had some fine conversations.  We left off tracting about 6 P.M. in the evening.  Went to visit Sister Taylor and family.  Then on to Upperby to see Sister Lightfoot.  Had supper and retuned about 11 P.M.

Friday, May 26, 1905.  Carlisle.  Fine day.

In the forenoon studied and wrote.  Had dinner at 1 P.M. after which we prepared our tracts and went tracting.  The people were very cold and indifferent today.  It was hard to get a conversation with them.  When we finished tracting, we returned to the lodge.  Spent the evening in study.

Saturday, May 27, 1905.  Carlisle.  Fine day.

Most of the day was spent in study.  Went to the River Eden.  Returned in the evening and prepared for Street meeting.  After singing and announcing the meeting, I arose and spoke for a while.  Quite a number of people gathered to hear us.  Elder Everett spoke last.  While he was speaking, a drunk came up disturbing the meeting, crying out to Elder Everett "That's not so, you are a hundred miles away," and so on!  Finally we shut him up and our meeting continued.  After which we distributed tracts to the listeners.  After meeting, we went up to Sister Atkinson's to supper.  Returned and went to bed at 11 P.M.

Sunday, May 28, 1905.  Carlisle.  Rainy in the evening

When we arose this morning, found a letter from a Mrs. Clark, an investigator, telling us of the death of her sister's little boy, Christopher Carr.  Telling us if we wished to see him we could by calling at her home.  After we were ready, we set out for her place.  When we arrived, we were shown the little boy, who was 1 yr 9 mo old and had been kicked by a horse.  While there, we consoled the mother of the child telling her of the justice of God in receiving a pure innocent child back into his presence.  It seemed to cheer up.  When we left there, we went to Upperby to take dinner Sister Lightfoot.  From there went to the hall to hold Sunday school.  I presided.  We had a good meeting.  All were prepared with their lessons.  After Sunday School, we went to Sister Atkinson's for tea, then returned to hold services.  I presided and spoke first.  After which Elder Everett spoke.  There were quite a number of strangers present.  A good spirit pervaded.  We did not hold street meeting tonight as it was raining hard, but we remained in the hall till quite late conversing with two young ladies upon the Gospel.  They seemed very interested and desirous of obtaining truth.  The parents of the young ladies were very bitter opponents to us.  After leaving the hall, we went to Sister Atkinson's for supper then returned to the lodge and retired.

Monday, May 29, 1905.  Wetherel.  Stormy in the forenoon.

We prepared to go out to Wetherel this morning, but it rained quite hard till noon.  Therefore, we didn't start till after dinner.  Wetheral is about 5 mi from Carlisle.  Bro. and Sister Porter invited us out.  So we set out after dinner.  The walk through the country lanes and fields was grand.  We enjoyed it very much.  Found Bro. and Sister Porter home.  Spent a most beautiful afternoon with them.  Bro. Porter took us through the garden and we gathered some onions, lettuce, and radishes for tea.  My how we did enjoy ourselves.  About 8:30 P.M. we started back toward home.  Arrived about dark.  The evening was spent in study.

Tuesday, May 30, 1905.  Carlisle.  Fine day.

Spent the forenoon in study.  The afternoon in tracting.   In the evening, called on Bro. Armstrong and family.  Had prayer with them.  Leaving there we went to call on Bro. and Sis. Sanders.  Leaving there, called on Sis. Atkinson's.  From there home.  Retired.     Board 7-9

Wednesday, May 31, 1905.  Carlisle.  Fine day.

After breakfast, we took our books and went to the riverside to study.  Elder Everett took his paints to do some painting.  At noon we returned.  Afternoon spent in making out our monthly report.  In the evening, we went to Mutual at No. 7 Regent St. in the home of Sister Atkinson.  Meeting commenced at 8 P.M.  All on the program responded.  One of the most striking features of the program was a song by Elder Neeley and Miss Hannah Atkinson.  (Sowing)  Miss Wetherel gave a select reading, after which the lesson (Condition of the Jews at the time of Christ) was treated.  All took an active part.  After mutual we returned to the lodge.

Fine weather

We've been living in Ireland for 9 months now and people love to talk about the weather here.  If a country had a "national topic", then weather would be it for Ireland.  The UK is quite close to Ireland and I'm sure Carlisle, England where Willard was shares some similarities in weather patterns with Ireland.  Many days in Willard's journal are annotated as a "fine day" or with "fine weather".  Speaking of which, Ireland has had several weeks of "fine weather"

Our family is going to the Carlisle Branch next week for church, so are excited to go visit some of the places where our Great Grandfather served and walked.

Monday, May 22, 1905. Carlisle.  Fine day.

We spent most of today in study.  In the evening went to visit Bro. Armstrong.  Then to Bro. and Sister Sanders then to Sis. Atkinson's then home.

Tuesday, May 23, 1905.  Carlisle.  Fine day.

This morning we arose.  Had breakfast.  Studied a short time.  Then went to call on a Sister Pane who was ill.  After leaving her place we went to the Carlisle park.  Spent an hour or so there very happily.  On our way home, we purchased some paints and in the afternoon we drew a large map of Palestine to use in our Mutual.  Also studied our mutual lesson.
[Board. 10-6 1/2]

Wednesday, May 24, 1905.  Carlisle.  Fine weather.

Studied in the forenoon.  In the afternoon we went tracking.  Met with good success.  Came in contact with a Church of England minister.  Had quite a long conversation.  I didn't convert him nor he me. although I talked to him very straight.  He addled me on Polygamy, so I took him to the Bible.  Proved to him that it was a righteous practise and was sanctioned by God.  He could not get around it.  Finally, he begged to be excused as he was in a hurry to go some place.  So he said we part friendly.  I bade him good afternoon.  After we finished tracking, returned to lodge.  Had tea and at 7 P.M. went to M.I.A.  Sister Atkinson's Lesson.  Geography of Palestine.  We were just beginning the manual (Life of Christ).  After Mutual, had supper and returned to lodge.