Another Conflict with Mesmerism

While visiting my sister in Poland, I was afflicted with sickness. Those present united in prayer in my behalf, and the disease was rebuked. Angels seemed to be in the room, and all was light and glory. I was again taken off in vision, and shown that I must go about three miles to a meeting, and when there should learn what the Lord would have me do.LSMS 142.2

We went to the meeting, and found a large number of brethren and sisters assembled. We were surprised to find Joe Turner there. He had boasted that he understood the art of mesmerism, and said that he could mesmerize Ellen Harmon, and could prevent her from having a vision or relating one in his presence. There were many present who had heard his boastful assertions.LSMS 142.3

During the meeting I arose to speak. Then my visions came up fresh before me, and I began relating them. Soon I felt a human influence being exerted against me. I looked at Mr. Turner, and saw that he had his hand up to his face, and was looking through his fingers. His eyes were intently fixed upon me, his lips were compressed, and a low grown now and then escaped him. In a moment I remembered the promise which the Lord had given me,—that if I were in danger of being affected by an earthly influence, and would ask for another angel, one would be sent to protect me.LSMS 142.4

Turning to this man, I related what the Lord had shown me in Portland; raising my hands to heaven, earnestly cried, “Another angel, Father, another angel!” I knew that my request was granted. I felt shielded by the strong Spirit of the Lord. I was borne above every earthly influence, and with freedom finished my testimony. The believers were comforted, and rejoiced in the Lord.LSMS 143.1

Some of my friends asked Mr. Turner why he had not stopped me from relating the vision, as he said he would. He answered, “Oh, some of you would have her talk.”LSMS 143.2

After the meeting we returned to my sister's with strong confidence, rejoicing in God.LSMS 143.3