Diana Bean Journal, August 1903-January 1904

File — Box: 1, Volume: 4

Staff Only

Scope and Contents

This journal contains numerous entries in which Bean describes her growing attraction to Elder Jessie Porter and of the constraints placed on the relationship because they were both missionaries. She describes at some length occasions when the two of them broke away from their missionary work to enjoy the sights of London. Referring to a flower show she and Porter attended, Bean writes, "It was all pleasurable but not more pleasurable than the quiet stroll on such a beautiful Autumn day...I think my companion and I did dream a little and when we awoke to things real, we laughed a little to think we had been tasting forbidden fruit, but twas very sweet to me...I believe I am getting romantic and that will not do while I am a 'minister.' But some of these little stolen hours give me life for all my days." (October 17) At the December 1903 conference of the London mission, Diana Bean and companion Margaret Thurman received their mission releases. In the final entries of this journal Bean writes of her "farewell" visits to church members and friends, and records her feelings about leaving the mission and returning home.

Dates

August 1903-January 1904

Conditions Governing Access

Access to originals restricted except with permission of the head of the Manuscripts Division.

Twenty-four hour advanced notice encouraged. Materials must be used on-site. Access to parts of this collection may be restricted under provisions of state or federal law.