[Apostle Abraham H. Cannon Journal] ... Pres. W[oodruff] then spoke a few words in English [to the Sandwich Island (Hawaian) choir] which Bro. Robt. B. T. Taylor interpreted. He told them they were of the seed of Israel of the tribe of Joseph, and they had a great work to do, for he had seen them in vision in the temples of God receiving their blessings. .... After dinner Pres. W[oodruff] made this remark to me while we were alone: "Bro. Cannon, your Father [George Q. Cannon] has got the biggest brain and the best mind of any man in the Kingdom, without exception." Sometime since he remarked to Chas. Wilcken that Father is the humblest man in the Church.
[Source: Abraham H. Cannon Journal Excerpts, http://www.amazon.com/Apostles-Record-Journals-Abraham-1889-1896/dp/B000MFD1K4]
Here is the more complete entry (for better context):
ReplyDeleteWe then drove to the President's office where the Tabernacle choir assembled--the largest number being together that I have for a long time seen--and serenaded Father and the President. After some singing Father and Bro. W. feelingly addressed the company. As they dispersed the Sandwich Island choir also sang several pieces, two of which were composed especially to honor Father. He spoke to them in their language and Pres. W. then spoke a few words in English, which Bro. Robt. B. T. Taylor interpreted. He told them they were of the seed of Israel of the tribe of Joseph, and they had a great work to do, for he had seen them in vision in the temples of God receiving their blessings. One Kanaka was present who is 95 years old. Father baptized him on the islands over 34 years ago. --After all had left Pres. W. accompanied Father and us children to the farm where we had dinner. After dinner Pres. W. made this remark to me while we were alone: “Bro. Cannon, your Father has got the biggest brain and the best mind of any man in the Kingdom, without exception.” Sometime since he remarked to Chas. Wilcken that Father is the humblest man in the Church.