In 1874, the writer spent his summer vacation in Cache Valley; went there on the 10th of July. I paid a visit to some friends in Smithfield, where I had the pleasure of meeting Martin Harris, one of the three witnesses to the Book of Mormon. He was in his 92nd year and walked in a stooping position. At the time I saw him he was seated under a shade tree. The sun was shining brightly and the birds were chirping as they flitted from tree to bush. He had come there on a visit to relatives and friends. His home was in Clarkstone, where he was living with his son.

As we sat together under the shade tree, I had a very pleasant interview with Martin: "Did you see the golden plates? Did you see the angel?" He replied in substance: "It is not a mere belief, but is a matter of knowledge. I saw the plates and the inscriptions thereon. I saw the angel and he showed them unto me."

We talked on other topics of an interesting nature pertaining to early Church history. The interview strengthened my faith in regard to the divine authenticity of the Book of Mormon. From the assurance within me I knew positively that Martin Harris was speaking the truth.

A year from the date we had the interview, the life's mission of Martin Harris was finished. He passed away on the 10th of July, 1875, in his 93rd year.