Introduction 23

This blessing, administered by women who understood very personally the doctrine and practice of plural marriage, strengthened Helen’s faith and restored her courage. Again, even though she drew sustenance from her few apprised friends, Helen still felt isolated, both physically and emotionally. Helen drew strength primarily from her children, from her role as a mother, and from her personal connection with God. In March 1904, two months before her death, Helen wrote a moving letter to Owen that demonstrates her depth of character and devotion:

I have my precious children and I am wrapped up in them heart and soul. They give me joy and comfort every hour. And I have so much to be thankful for the Lord knows my heart and He knows how grateful I am for all my many blessings although it would seem sometimes to others that I am ungrateful. The one fact, that God knows my every thought, hope and desire, is one of my greatest sources of happiness. I keep nothing from Him. . . . there is only One who can judge me, and He is merciful and I feel will be charitable with me. (Letter 76)

Helen’s isolation also led her to more independence, and Owen’s confidence in her abilities increased as did her competence in rearing a growing family. She attended parties alone and began handling financial and delicate religious matters for Owen, such as his August 5, 1902, request to “Please drop a note to Sophronia Tucker. . . . Tell her I have no authority to release them from any covenant they have made with the Lord. You know the case dear & I can’t trust it to anyone but you” (Letter 41). These additional responsibilities occupied Helen’s daily life and altered her tone in letters as shown in entries two years later:

I have been so extremely busy since you left that the time has passed so rapidly I scarcely know where it has gone to and you will soon be home again before I get half done that I anticipated. (Letter 54)

Now I do not want you to cut your visit short on my account for I will get along some way as many women have to do. (Letter 61)

Three baby girls — Helen Mar (1901), June (1902), and Rhoda (1903) — quickly followed the birth of Wilford Owen, so home and