Ellis—there is a desire to write a few words in your journal. ‘This not for the cruel, unsympathizing eye to read, no—for I shall place sentiments from the heart. Which is stronger, principle or love? O we could not exist destitute of love. Give us love founded on principle and genuine worth. This only will be permanent. Ellis there are few people who know each other as we do—Our situation and circumstances have been peculiarly adapted to the searching out and becoming almost perfectly acquainted with each other. Trivial affairs have occurred to excite to impatience, and we have forgotten the noble virtues that reside within us. Nearly four years we have been “married,” and I have never conferred any depth of affection or been at all demonstrative. But for once I let you gaze into my soul. Polygamy is from God, it is pure—holy, immaculate, and although my mind is occasionally clouded, yet generally the principle appears clear and practicable. Ellis there is no woman that I ever met (I will not except age) with whom I would rather be connected—O Sister dear I appreciate your noble soul, wise judgment, and sympathetic heart. My love is genuine and I truly believe will exist throughout the eternities. I desire your love, your interest, your watchful care, and all poor I can offer in the world is yours. I tell you principle is the great necessity. ‘This the safest platform. O let us draw near to each other, be united, let us continue to pray together, be determined to exercise charity and forbearance. My heart is sick, and my thoughts unmingled, but you know what my desires are earnest, humble and holy.
Maggie Shipp. (Maggie Shipp, Letter to Ellis Reynolds Shipp, in Ellis Reynolds Shipp, Journal, July 25, 1871, in While Others Slept: Utah’s Second Doctor Tells Her Poignant and Powerful Story [Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1962], 81-82)
