Volume IV: Table of Contents

	 Introduction
	 Chapter I:         The Departure of the Twelve for
                    England--Manifestation of God's Power in Healing
                    	the Sick at Commerce
	 Chapter II:        The Prophet's Journey to Washington--The Petition
                    of the Saints to the Congress of the United
                    States for Redress of the Wrongs Inflicted Upon
                    Them in Missouri.
	 Chapter III:       The Prophet's Efforts at Washington to Obtain
                    Redress of Grievances for the Saints--Affidavits
                    on Missouri Affairs.
	 Chapter IV:        Departure of the Prophet from Washington--Labors
                    of Elias Higbee Before the Senate Judiciary
                    Committee--Report of the Committee.
	 Chapter V:         Affairs of the Saints Before United States
                    Senate--General Conference of the Church at
                    Nauvoo--Action of the Church With Reference to
                    Senate Committee's Report--Mission to Palestine.
	 Chapter VI:        Development of the Work in England--The Palestine
                    Mission--Postoffice Name Changed from Commerce to
                    Nauvoo.
	 Chapter VII:       First Foreign Periodical of the Church--The
                    "Millenial Star"--The Prophet Seeks Release from
                    Secular Responsibilities.
	 Chapter VIII: Important Conference of the Church in
               England--Kidnapping of Brown and Boyce by
               Missourians--Action of the Citizens of Nauvoo.
	 Chapter IX:        The Return of a Prodigal--Conditions in
                    Kirtland--Progress of the Work in Great
                    Britain--The Coming of John C.
                    Bennett--Australian Mission.
	 Chapter X:         A Missouri Kidnapping--Continued Development of
                    the Work in Great Britain--The Death of Joseph
                    Smith, Sen., First Patriarch of the Church.
	 Chapter XI:        Threatening Portents in the Actions of
                    Missouri--General Conferences in Nauvoo and
                    England--The Doctrine of Priesthood.
	 Chapter XII:       Progress of the Work in Great Britain--The Saints
                    at Kirtland Reproved for Their Course During the
                    Missouri Persecutions--The Prophet's Address to
                    the Twelve and Saints in Great Britain.
	 Chapter XIII: Introduction of the Gospel in the Isle of
               Man--the Nauvoo Charter.
	 Chapter XIV:       Vale 1840--Enter 1841--List of Publications For
                    and Against the Church--Whereabouts of the Twelve
                    Apostles--"Election and
                    Reprobation"--Proclamation to the Saints.
	 Chapter XV:        Reconstruction of Church Affairs at
                    Nauvoo--Revelation--Municipal Organization of
                    Nauvoo--Installation of Civic and Military
                    Officers.
	 Chapter XVI:       The First Foreign Mission of the Church,
                    1837-1841.
	 Chapter XVII: Celebration of the Twelfth Anniversary of the
               Organization of the Church--Order of Laying
               Corner stones of Temples--Council Meetings of the
               Twelve in England.
	 Chapter XVIII:     General Conference at Nauvoo--Epistle of the
                    Twelve to the Saints in England--Difference
                    Between Baptists and Latter-Day Saints.
	 Chapter XIX:       Organization of the Nauvoo Legion--Notable
                    Persons at Nauvoo--The Prophet's Sermon on
                    Individual Responsibility for Sin and the
                    Doctrine of Election.
	 Chapter XX:        Arrest of the Prophet on Demand of
                    Missouri--Trial at Monmouth--The Acquittal.
	 Chapter XXI:       The Mission to Jerusalem--Progress of Orson Hyde
                    in His Journey.
	 Chapter XXII: Sundry Events at Nauvoo and Throughout the
               World--The Mission of the Twelve Noted by the
               Prophet.
	 Chapter XXIII:     The Death of Don Carlos Smith--His Life and
                    Labors--Special Conference at Nauvoo.
	 Chapter XXIV: Hotchkiss Land Purchase Trouble--Death's Harvest,
               Oliver Granger, Robert B. Thompson--Important
               Action Relating to the Twelve--The Mission in Fox
               Island.
	 Chapter XXV:       The General Conference of the Church at
                    Nauvoo--Doctrinal Sermon by the Prophet--Baptism
                    for the Dead--Angels and Ministering
                    Spirits--Epistle of the Twelve Reviewing Status
                    of the Church.
	 Chapter XXVI: Affairs in Kirtland and Nauvoo--Epistle of the
               Twelve to the Saints in the British
               Islands--Orson Hyde's Prayer on the Mount of
               Olives, Dedicating the Holy Land Preparatory to
               the Return of the Tribes of Israel.
	 Chapter XXVII:     Official Denunciation of Thieves at Nauvoo--The
                    Moral Law of the Church--Abandonment of Ramus as
                    a Stake of Zion--Baptism for the Dead, An
                    Epistle.
	 Chapter XXVIII:    Kirtland vs. Nauvoo--Political Attitude of the
                    People of Nauvoo Declared--Publications Mormon
                    and Anti-Mormon for 1841--Close of the Year.
	 Chapter XXIX: The Opening of the Year 1842--Whereabouts of the
               Twelve Apostles--Correspondence of Elder Hyde
               From Trieste--Report of High Council on Affairs
               in Nauvoo--Events and Conditions in the British
               Mission.
	 Chapter XXX:       Emigration of the Saints from England to
                    Nauvoo--The Book of Abraham.
	 Chapter XXXI: The Wentworth Letter.
	 Chapter XXXII:     The Bennett-Dyer Correspondence--The Prophet's
                    Discourse on the Subject of the Resurrection, and
                    the Salvation of Children--Epistle of the Twelve
                    to the Saints in England Concerning Their
                    Emigration to America.
	 Chapter XXXIII:    A Mason's Estimate of Nauvoo and the
                    Prophet--Organization of the Female Relief
                    Society--"Try the Spirits"--The Prophet's
                    Editorial.
	 Chapter XXXIV:     Special Conference of the Church at Nauvoo--The
                    Prophet's Reproof of the Wicked--Epistle of the
                    Twelve to the Saints in Kirtland--Status of the
                    Church.
	 Chapter XXXV: The General Bankrupt Law--The Doctrine of Baptism
               for the Dead--The Prophet's Address to the Female
               Relief Society--The Keys of the Priesthood and
               the Nauvoo Temple.


        HISTORY OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS
                                Period I.
             History of Joseph Smith, the Prophet, by himself
                An Introduction and Notes by B. H. Roberts



                        INTRODUCTION TO VOLUME IV.

	FIVE subjects may be said to form the outline of the chief events the
Founding of Nauvoo; the Appeal of the Church to the National Government
for redress of wrongs suffered in Missouri; the Mission of the Twelve
Apostles to the British Isles; the Mission of Orson Hyde to Palestine; and
the Doctrinal Development of the Church.

	Preliminary Considerations.

	Preliminary to a brief consideration of these several subjects, I
desire to say a word as to the reception of the Latter-day Saints by the
people of Illinois, and the conditions prevailing in that state at the
time of their arrival. A knowledge of these conditions is necessary to the
understanding of this whole Illinois period of the History of the Church.

	Much has been made of the hospitality which the people of Illinois
extended to the Latter-day Saints at the time of their expulsion from
Missouri. A writer in the American Historical Magazine for July, 1906,
says: "To the latter state [Illinois] they [the Saints] went in 1839, and
were received with such open-armed hospitality as only a very generous and
liberty-loving people can extend to those whom they honestly believe to be
suffering from a wrongful oppression. The conduct of the Saints in five
years turned this feeling of extraordinarily deep-seated sympathy,
inducing great practical charities, into a feeling of very bitter hatred,
threatening to break into mob violence." Far be it from me me to
depreciate the kindness of those who extended a helping hand to the Saints
in the hour of their distress. Stripped and sorely wounded they fled from
the violence of Missouri militia-mobs, and found for a time a peaceful
asylum in Illinois. Many were the acts of disinterested kindness extended
to them by the people in the western part of that state; and every such
act I am sure was and is remembered, both by those who were the direct
recipients of such acts of kindness and by their grateful descendants. But
is responding to the calls of humanity so rare a thing in a Christian
state, that it must needs be regarded as so exceptional in this case? Such
was the condition of the Saints as they fled from Missouri, such the
injustice to which they had been subjected in that state, that their
situation would have appealed to the generosity of savages, how much more,
then, to a civilized and Christian community! And then, speaking of this
reception of the Saints en masse, by Illinois, and leaving out of
consideration for the moment---since they have already been
acknowledged--the individual acts of kindness bestowed upon the exiles,
was this reception of the Saints by Illinois wholly disinterested? Were
there not benefits which the Saints could bestow upon the state in return
for the heartiness of the reception given? Would it not have been, under
all the circumstances, the gravest of blunders for Illinois to have
refused asylum to these exiles? Is it to be presumed that the public men
of western Illinois were so blind to their own interests as not to see in
these twelve or fifteen thousand people a mighty advantage to the state?
It is true they were poor in this world's goods; but they were rich in
labor-power, and their reputation for habits of sobriety and of industry
had preceded them. Here were thousands of husbandmen seeking lands.
Illinois had thousands of acres of unoccupied lands awaiting husbandmen.
How shortsighted and unstatesman-like it would have been for the men of
Illinois not to have welcomed these settlers into their state? With half
an eye it is easy to see that the benefits of this reception of the exiled
Mormons by Illinois is not by any means a one-sided affair; and it would
be doing an injustice to the intelligence of the people of that state to
suppose they were blind to these advantages. This will more fully appear
when other conditions are taken into account. Illinois has an area of
56,650 square miles; and at the time of the advent of the Saints in that
state a white population of less than four hundred thousand, as against a
present population of five and a half millions. It will be seen, then,
that in 1839, the year of the advent of the Saints into that state,
Illinois was very sparsely settled, and needed above all things for her
development and prosperity, people to subdue her wilderness and cultivate
her rich lands, especially people desirous of making homes, and becoming
permanent citizens. Moreover, Illinois had recently launched an extensive
system of internal improvements by state aid. This system included the
construction of 1,300 miles of railroads in the state, besides provisions
for the improvement of the navigation of the Kaskaskia, Illinois, Great
and Little Wabash, and Rock rivers. Also the construction of a canal from
Lake Michigan to the navigable waters of the Illinois river, a distance of
more than one hundred miles (from Chicago to Peru). To carry out this
system of internal improvements the state legislature of 1836-7 had
appropriated the sum of $12,000,000; and to raise the money state bonds
were placed on the stock markets of the eastern states and in England. It
is not my province here even to note the wisdom or unwisdom of this policy
of wholesale state aid for these internal improvements; let the wisdom or
unwisdom be what it may, these conditions emphasized Illinois' demand for
population, and again makes it evident that it would have been the height
of folly for the people of that state to do other than give hearty welcome
to this body of population so rich in labor-power; so potent in wealth
producing energy.

	Another thing to be noted is the fact that about the time of the
advent of the Saints into Illinois, political parties were just taking
form in that state, and it is within the record of facts in the case, as
well as of great likelihood, that a desire for obtaining political
advantage was at least in the background of motives prompting the
heartiness of the reception given to the Saint;.

	Illinois was admitted into the Union in 1818, but it is a matter of
common knowledge that in the early years of her history as a state, her
officers were elected not on any well defined political party principles,
but chiefly on the strength of the personality of the candidates and the
special things for which they individually stood. Indeed, it was not until
1830 that anything like party lines were drawn in the state, and that it
became a battle ground for the two great national parties, Whigs and
Democrats. It was a committee from a Democratic party organization in
Quincy, Illinois, that took the initiative in welcoming the Saints into
the state, and strive how one may, it is difficult to think there was not
some political advantage sought through this action. On the other hand,
the Whigs were not slow to urge upon the incoming exiles that it was a
Democratic state and a Democratic administration in that state which had
not only permitted, but had really ordered their expulsion from Missouri,
and that doubtless the injustice they had suffered was owing to Democratic
ideas of the administration of government. Nor were there wanting those
among the Saints who were willing to believe that such was the case.
Indeed, Joseph Smith, the Prophet, found it necessary to gently reprove
some of his people who were rapidly making the question of their expulsion
from Missouri a political party question in Illinois. This effort to win
the Saints to one political party or the other, continued to be a factor
in their affairs so long as they remained at Nauvoo. It was owing to this
rivalry for their support that doubtless made it possible for the Saints
to obtain larger grants of power for their city government, and greater
political privileges and influence in the State than otherwise could have
been obtained by them. It also was this rivalry for their favor, as the
events in this, but more especially in the succeeding volume will prove,
that made them alternately fulsomely flattered and heartily disliked;
fawningly courted, and viciously betrayed.

	A knowledge of these circumstances, I say, is essential to the right
understanding of the Nauvoo period of the Church's history.

	The Founding of Nauvoo.

	The founding of the city of Nauvoo was an event, the interest of
which extends beyond the people immediately concerned in it. It was a
unique movement in its way, and may yet suggest a policy in reference to
the government of large cities from which great benefits may arise. Very
naturally after the experiences of the Mormon people in Missouri, the
Prophet was anxious to environ them with conditions that would insure
protection to the community, hence for Nauvoo he secured as large
concessions of political power as it was possible to obtain, and an
examination of the Nauvoo charter proper with its attendant charters
providing as they did for an independent educational system, from common
schools to a University; an independent military organization with a
lieutenant-general as its commander; a large grant of commercial as well
as municipal power, demonstrates how well he succeeded. Commenting upon
the charter immediately after its passage by the state legislature had
been formally announced, he said' "The City Charter of Nauvoo is of my own
plan and device. I concocted it for the salvation of the Church, and on
principles so broad, that every honest man might dwell secure under its
protective influence without distinction of sect or party." On another
occasion when defending the right of the city to issue writs of habeas
corpus, even against processes of the state, he held: "If there is not
power in our charter and courts, then there is not power in the State of
Illinois nor in the Congress or Constitution of the United States; for the
United States gave unto Illinois her Constitution or Charter, and Illinois
gave unto Nauvoo her charters conceding unto us our vested rights which
she has no right or power to take from us. All the power there was in
Illinois she gave to Nauvoo. * * * The municipal court has all the power
to issue and determine writs of habeas corpus within the limits of this
state that the

	Legislature can confer. This city has all the power that the State
courts have, and was given by the same authority---the legislature. * * *
The charter says that the City Council shall have power and authority to
make, ordain, establish, and execute such ordinances not repugnant to the
Constitution of the United States, or of this State, as they may deem
necessary for the peace, benefit and safety of the inhabitants of said
city. And also that the Municipal Court shall have power to grant writs
of habeas corpus in all cases arising under the ordinances of the City
Council. The City Council have passed an ordinance `that no citizen of
this city shall be taken out of this city by any writ without the
privilege of a writ of habeas corpus.' There is nothing but what we have
power over, except where restricted by the Constitution of the United
States. 'But,' says the mob, `what dangerous powers!' Yes--dangerous,
because they will protect the innocent and put down mobocrats. There is
nothing but what we have power over, except where restricted by the
Constitution of the United States. * * * If these powers are dangerous,
then the Constitution of the United States, and of this State are
dangerous; but they are not dangerous to good men; they are only so to bad
men who are breakers of the laws. * * * The lawyers themselves acknowledge
that we have all power granted us in our charters, that we could ask
for--that we had more power than any other court in the State; for all
other courts were restricted while ours was not."

	Such views in relation to an ordinary municipal government would
unquestionably be stamped as preposterous. No such powers as are here
claimed are accorded to ordinary city governments in Illinois or any other
of the states of the American Union. What then may be said of the
Prophet's claims in respect to the municipal powers of Nauvoo? Nothing in
way of defense, except that Nauvoo was not an ordinary municipality; that
Joseph Smith had sought for extraordinary grants of power for the city of
Nauvoo and had obtained them; that his personal experiences and the
experiences of his people, both in Ohio and Missouri, had taught him the
necessity of having officers charged with the duty of administering
government wherein his people were concerned, who were friendly disposed
and whose interests were largely identical with those of the Saints: that
the things which both the Prophet and his people had suffered justified
both him and them in seeking for and obtaining such power as had been
conferred by charters upon the city of Nauvoo; that the Prophet was wholly
within the lines of right conduct when he invoked the municipal powers in
his own protection against the aggressions of his old enemies in Missouri
and his new betrayers in Illinois. But whether the legislature of Illinois
was fully aware of the extraordinary powers they were conferring upon the
city of Nauvoo, or being aware of the import of their action the party in
control of the legislature was willing to grant the extraordinary powers
in the hope of currying political favor with the Saints, may not now be
determined; but in any event these extraordinary powers were granted; and
wittingly or unwittingly a "city-state" had practically been established
within the state of Illinois. Nothing short of this descriptive term can
adequately set forth the municipal government of Nauvoo. It seems to be an
unconscious reversion.  In an incipient way, to the "city-states" or
"city-republics" of the old Greek confederations; or the "free-towns" of
medieval times, when the cities were more potent than nations in commerce
and even in politics. Whether or not the state courts of Illinois and
United States courts would have sustained the Nauvoo charters if the
matter of their validity had been referred to them for adjudication, may
not be determined; but one can scarcely suppress the thought that the
likelihood is that they would not have been sustained; on the contrary
they would have been most likely declared anomalous to our system of
government as it then stood, and now stands. But certainly if the
experiment of such a municipal government had not been interrupted in its
progress, it might have been an instructive object lesson in the
government of cities; and even as it is, the founding of Nauvoo, the
"city-state," suggests an important idea which may work out great
practical reforms in municipal government in our country.

	The founders of our Government dealt with conditions that were very
simple in comparison with the complexity of the conditions which
government in its various forms, municipal, state and national, is
confronted with today. The Municipal problems which now vex the people had
not then arisen above the horizon of their experience. The American
commonwealths of the early decades of the nineteenth century were
practically rural commonwealths. At the time of Washington's inauguration
(1789) the population of New York was but thirty-three thousand;
Philadelphia forty-two thousand; Boston but eighteen thousand; Baltimore
thirteen thousand; Brooklyn one thousand six hundred, and more village
than town. Now compare these cities with their present population. New
York has a population of over four millions; Philadelphia a population of
one and a half millions; Boston more than half a million; Baltimore over
five hundred thousand; Brooklyn is absorbed in New York, but as a borough
of the larger city it has a population of nearly one and a half
millions;+ Chicago, which in 1840 had but four thousand inhabitants, much
smaller than Nauvoo, has now a population of more than two millions;++
St. Louis which in 1840 had a population of but 16,469, has now a
population of three quarters of a million.* Nothing like the growth of
urban population within the United States during the last fifty years has
been known in the history of the world, and it has brought to the
inhabitants of these cities problems undreamed of by the founders of our
government. Every year discloses more and more distinctly the fact that
between these condensed communities and the town, village, and rural
population of the states in which they are located, there are very
distinct interests and governmental problems of widely differing
character. The differences which justify distinct local governments in the
state of New York and the peninsula of Florida are not more insistent than
the differences between the great commercial city of New York and the
state of the same name. Without entering upon elaborate discussion of
these questions (a discussion which is foreign to the character of this
writing) I venture the suggestion that separate and complete state
governments for our large cities, or the elevation of them into what I
have called "city-states," such as Nauvoo was, in an incipient way, will
be the solution to most of the problems of municipal government in our
very large cities. It would greatly enlarge in them the governmental
powers essential to their more perfect peace, security, and prosperity.
Also it would separate them from embroilment in those questions of the
state governments under which they are now located, and in which they have
so little interest--often indeed, there is even sharp conflict of
interests, engendering bitterness and strife which hinders progress for
both city and state. Besides, granting complete statehood to our larger
cities would be but a proper recognition of the right of those great
aggregations of citizens with their varied industries, their immense
wealth and distinct interests, to that measure of influence in our
national affairs which their numbers and intelligence and interests justly
demand.

	The Appeal of the Church to the National government for Redress of
Wrongs Suffered in Missouri.

	The Prophet Joseph Smith, Sidney Rigdon, and Judge Elias Higbee were
chosen as the committee to present to the National Congress the petition
of the Saints for a redress of their grievances, suffered in Missouri.
This journey to the nation's Capital was of importance quite apart from
the immediate purpose for which it was undertaken; namely, it brought the
Prophet in contact with the leading statesmen of the United States. While
in Washington, he was brought in contact with and interviewed such men as
Henry Clay, John C. Calhoun, President Martin Van Buren, different members
of the Cabinet, Senators, and Representatives. Such contact enabled him to
take new measurements not only of a different class of men from those with
whom he had been accustomed to associate, but new measurements of himself
by comparison and contrast of himself with those leading spirits of the
nation. Comparisons which could not result otherwise than in advantage to
him; and I think it must be conceded by all students of the Prophet's
character, especially to those who have been at all close observers of its
development, that after this trip to Washington, which afforded the above
noted opportunities of comparison and contrast, the Prophet's growth was
immeasurably greater than at any time before that journey.

	In some respects however it was unfortunate that the Prophet was not
more cosmopolitan in his training and in his views of life on the occasion
of this visit to the nation's capital; for lack of such training and views
of life led him to the formation of rather hasty judgments as to the
character of our nation's public men at that time. He undoubtedly had
sticking to him as yet, some of the prejudices of his New England and New
York sectional training; and at the time of his visit the spirit of the
public men of the nation at Washington was largely influenced by the
Southern character and spirit. Bourbon Democracy was at its height. The
gentlemen of the South with their extreme notions of chivalry and polite
deportment, predominated. In those days men were held to strict account
for their manner of address one to another. An improper word, a slight,
magnified into an insult, meant a challenge to mortal combat on "the field
of honor," and this sense of personal responsibility for utterances begot,
no doubt, an extreme politeness in personal deportment which seemed
puerile to those reared in another atmosphere and influenced by other
sentiments than those which resulted from education in the South. Joseph
Smith's judgment upon manners and customs in Washington, was doubtless New
England's judgment upon Southern customs with which it had no patience,
much less sympathy. It is only from these considerations that the rather
harsh judgment of the Prophet in relation to conditions in Washington can
be properly understood.

	Relative to the business upon which this committee visited
Washington, it should be said that Sidney Rigdon failed to participate in
it at all, in consequence of an illness which befell him on his journey,
and hindered him from reaching Washington until the business was
practically settled. A short stay in Washington convinced the Prophet that
nothing was to be expected in the way of obtaining a redress of grievances
for his people from the very cautious politicians then in control of the
government, all of whom were anxious, apparently, to palliate the actions
of Missouri with reference to the Saints, for the sake of retaining her
political influence on their side; and also because of a prevailing
inclination to a strict construction of the powers of the general
government in its relations to the states. The Prophet therefore left
Washington to preach the Gospel for a short time in New Jersey and
Philadelphia, after which he returned to Nauvoo, leaving Judge Elias
Higbee to urge consideration of the petition of the Saints which had been
referred to the Senate committee on Judiciary, with what result is made
known in detail in the body of this volume of the history. It is
sufficient here to say that the net result of the Committee's
deliberations was simply to recommend that the Saints appeal for a redress
of their wrongs to the United States District Court having jurisdiction in
Missouri, or they could, if they saw proper, "apply to the justice and
magnanimity of the State of Missouri--an appeal which the committee feel
justified in believing will never be made in vain by the injured or
oppressed."---(Sic!)

	This suggestion to take their case to the United States Courts was
never acted upon by the Saints, nor does it appear in what manner it would
have been practicable for them to do so. True it is expressly provided in
the Constitution that "The Judicial power of the United States shall
extend to all cases in law and equity, arising under this Constitution,
the laws of the United States, and treaties made, or which shall be made,
under their authority; to controversies between two or more states;
between a state and citizens of another state; between citizens of
different states; between citizens of the same state," etc. The case of
the Saints would fall either under the clauses in the above quotation
respecting controversies arising between a state (Missouri) and citizens
of another state (the Saints, now citizens, of Illinois); or "between
citizens of different states," the Saints, citizens of Illinois, and their
former persecutors, citizens of Missouri. In considering the question
under the first clause it must be remembered that the eleventh amendment
to the Constitution (declared in force 1798) provides that

	"The Judicial power of the United States shall not be construed to
extend to any suit in law or equity, commenced or prosecuted against one
of the United States by citizens of another state, or by citizens or
subjects of any foreign state." It is held that "the power as well as the
dignity of a state would be gone if it could be dragged into court by a
private plaintiff."

	The Supreme Court in the case Chisholm vs. the State of Georgia, had
decided (1793) that an action did lie against the State of Georgia at a
suit of a private plaintiff. The state however refused to appear,
whereupon the Supreme Court proceeded, a year later, to give judgment
against her by default in case she should not appear and plead before a
day; whereupon there arose such a storm of protest, not only in Georgia,
but in the other states as well, that the eleventh amendment was adopted
exempting a state from being sued in the courts of the United States by
citizens of another state, or by citizens subjects of any foreign state.
Moreover, states are not suable in any event except with their consent;
and if a state waive its immunity, it may attach any conditions it pleases
to its consent.+ Under these circumstances it is not surprising that the
Saints never attempted to bring Missouri before the United States courts.
They could only have planted suit against the state by its consent, and if
she consented, then under such conditions as she might be pleased to
attach to that consent. Moreover, the Saints had the best of reasons for
believing that Missouri would never consent.

	As to suing their persecutors as individuals before the United States
courts, as citizens of one state suing citizens of another, it is only
necessary to remind the reader of the insuperable difficulties attending
upon that procedure to convince him of the futility of such action. The
expensiveness of the undertaking, and the extreme poverty of the exiles
alone would be sufficient to bar such an undertaking; for every one knows
how bitterly hard it is for the poor to set the judicial machinery of
organized society in motion in their favor. Then there was the evident
conspiracy entered into by the mobs of Missouri to defeat the ends of
justice in respect of the Saints' mobs which an unfriendly governor had
converted into a state militia; to which that same governor gave an order
to expel from the state or exterminate the entire people; under which
order said mob-militia did expel from the state some twelve thousand
citizens, depriving them of their property and liberty without due process
of law; and afterwards the state through its legislature sanctioned and
applauded the actions of this mob-militia for the part it had taken in
causing said expulsion--though attended by acts of unspeakable
atrocity--by appropriating 200,000 dollars to meet the expenses of the
mob-militia in carrying out the governor's illegal orders. After these
crimes against the Constitution and laws of the state, against American
institutions and the civilization of the age---after all this, I say, it
is not difficult to understand how farcical would be any procedure before
either the state or the federal courts in Missouri. By acts of perjury, in
order to still further defeat the ends of justice and protect each other
from the penalties due to their crimes, it would have been easy for the
people of Missouri to defeat the ends of justice. And after having
committed the crimes of murder and robbery; after having unlawfully
expelled a whole people, numbering thousands, from their homes---of which
the despoilers were then possessed--it is not to be believed that such
characters would hesitate to subborn witnesses, commit perjury, or
hesitate to do any other thing, however criminal, in order to escape the
just punishment for their crimes.

	The offense of the State of Missouri against the Saints was a denial
of political as well as of civil rights. She had in her treatment of the
Saints abdicated republican government. Her officers, including the chief
executive of the state had violated the Constitution of the state in that
they had entered into a wide-spread conspiracy to deprive the Saints of
their liberty and property without due process of law; and in fact had
deprived them of those rights by expelling them by force of arms from the
state.

	These were the wrongs the Saints had endured; this the nature of the
crime of the state of Missouri against them, and it seems that for these
things which they suffered there could be found no remedy; for, as already
explained, a state could not be made party to a suit before the courts,
either state or federal, without her consent; and it is a well settled
principle of American law that "a suit nominally against an officer but
really against a state to enforce performance of its obligation in its
political capacity, will not lie." A state, therefore, could not be
directly arraigned before the courts or any kind of tribunal for failure
to enforce its political obligations; nor could it be indirectly so
arraigned through its officers since such an arraignment would undoubtedly
have been held to be but "nominally against the officers and really
against the state;" hence void. The only arraignment of the state that
could be made was evidently at the bar of public opinion and sentiment,
and this sentiment, unfortunately viciated by misrepresentations, was
against the Saints. All things considered, then, there was little wisdom
behind the recommendation of the Senate Judiciary Committee for the Saints
to prosecute their case before the Federal courts having jurisdiction in
Missouri; and the suggestion that they apply to the justice and
magnanimity of the state of the Missouri, borders upon mockery. However,
Missouri did not escape the chastisement due to her many acts of predatory
injustice upon the Saints; there was measured out to her more than four
fold of that sorrow and affliction which she had perpetrated upon the
Saints. She sowed to the wind in her conduct towards the Mormon people,
she reaped the whirl-wind in the terrible experiences of more then ten
years of border warfare, banditti rule, and her enormous sacrifice of
blood and treasure in the Civil War; all of which is abundantly set forth
in the Introduction to Volume III of this work.

	The Mission of the Twelve to England.

	The mission of the Twelve to England marks an epoch in the missionary
experience of the Church. They undertook this mission in fulfillment of a
commandment received of the Lord on the 8th of July, 1838, at Far West,
Missouri, which revelation was given in answer to the question of the
Prophet' "Show us thy will, O Lord, concerning the Twelve." In answer to
that question the Lord directed that the several vacancies then existing
in the quorum should be filled by the appointment of John Taylor, John E.
Page, Wilford Woodruff, and Willard Richards. "And next spring," said the
revelation, "let them [the Twelve] depart to go over the great waters and
there promulgate my gospel, the fullness thereof, and bear record of my
name. Let them take leave of my Saints in the City Far West on the 26th
day of April next, on the building spot of my house saith the Lord."*

	Notwithstanding the fact that the Church had been expelled from the
state of Missouri before the 26th day of April, 1839, a number of the
Twelve accompanied by several of those who had been appointed to fill
vacancies in the quorum, returned to Far West, held a meeting on the site
of the Lord's house in the public square of that place, on the date
appointed, sung some hymns, ordained those present who had been appointed
to fill vacancies in the quorum, laid a corner stone of the Lord's house,
took leave of a few of the brethren who were there, and thence started for
foreign lands, stopping for a time en route at Nauvoo. Late in the summer
of 1839 the Twelve began their departure, usually in pairs, for foreign
lands. The work had already been introduced into England by the labors of
Elder Heber C. Kimball and associates, Elder Orson Hyde of the quorum of
the Twelve; also Elders Willard Richards, Isaac Russell, John Goodson,
John Snyder; and Joseph Fielding, a priest. The mission of the Twelve to
England as a quorum, however, established the work in the British Isles on
a broader and more permanent basis, and thence forward the body religious
was strengthened from this mission; and as much from the character as from
the numbers of the British Saints.

	The Mission of Orson Hyde to Palestine.

	The mission appointed to Elders Orson Hyde and John E. Page, of the
quorum of the Twelve, to Jerusalem, was second in importance only to that
appointed to the rest of the Twelve to Great Britain. John E. Page utterly
failed to fulfill his appointment, notwithstanding the frequent urging and
reproofs of the Prophet. He never left the shores of America, and finally
returned to Nauvoo to be severly censured for his lack of faith and
energy. Orson Hyde, on the contrary, in the midst of many hardships,
persevered in his journey to the Holy Land, until he succeeded in
accomplishing that which had been appointed unto him. Elder Hyde it
appears, was a descendant of the tribe of Judah; and sometime after the
Prophet had become acquainted with him, most probably in the year 1832, in
the course of pronouncing a blessing upon him, said, "In due time thou
shalt go to Jerusalem, the land of thy fathers, and be a watchman unto the
house of Israel; and by thy hand shall the Most High do a great work,
which shall prepare the way and greatly facilitate the gathering together
of that people." It was in fulfillment of this prediction upon his head
that he had been called upon this mission to Jerusalem, to dedicate the
land of Palestine by apostolic authority, preparatory to the return of the
Jews and other of the tribes of Israel to that land of promise. This
mission he fully accomplished. An account of his journey and of his
beautiful and powerful prayer of dedication will be found in his letters
published in this volume.+

	The question will be asked, Has anything resulted from this mission
to dedicate the land of Palestine to the return of the Jews and other
tribes of Israel? The only answer is an appeal to facts, to events that
have taken place since that prayer of consecration was offered up by this
Apostle of the new dispensation of the Gospel, on the 24th of October,
1841.

	At the time of Elder Hyde's visit and the ceremonies of dedication he
performed on the Mount of Olives, there were comparatively but few Jews at
Jerusalem. As late as 1876 the British Consul Reports show that there were
but from fifteen to twenty thousand Jews in Judea. But twenty years later
the same authority declared the number of Jews at sixty to seventy
thousand; and, what was of more importance than the numbers announced,
these reports represented that the new Jewish population was turning its
attention to the cultivation of the soil, which but requires the blessings
of God upon it to restore it to its ancient fruitfulness, and which will
make it possible for it to sustain once more a numerous population. The
St. Louis Globe-Democrat commenting on these Consular Reports of 1896,
said;

	"Only two decades ago there were not more than fifteen or twenty
thousand Jews in Jerusalem. At that time no houses were to be found
outside the walls of the city. Since then many changes have taken place
and the Hebrew population---mainly on account of the increase of the
Jewish immigration from Russia--now stands at between sixty and seventy
thousand. Whole streets of houses have been built outside the walls on the
site of the ancient suburban districts, which for hundreds of years have
remained deserted. It is not, however, only in Jerusalem itself that the
Jews abound, but throughout Palestine they are buying farms and
establishing themselves in a surprisingly rapid manner. In Jerusalem they
form at present a larger community than either the Christian or the
Mohammedan."

	Also in 1896 that racial movement among the Jews known as "Zionism"
took definite form. This movement was really the federation of all the
Jewish societies that have cherished the hope of seeing Israel restored to
his promised possessions in Palestine. That year the first international
conference of Zionists was held in Basel, Switzerland, and since then
under the leadership of the late Dr. Herzel of Austria, and since his
death under the leadership of Israel Zangwill, and by reason of its annual
conferences constantly increasing in interest and attendance, "Zionism"
has taken on all the aspects of one of the world's great movements. It is
not so much a religious movement as a racial one; for prominent Jews of
all shades of both political and religious opinions have participated in
it.

	After saying through so many centuries at the feast of the Passover
"May we celebrate the next Passover in Jerusalem," the thought seems to
have occurred to some Jewish minds that if that hope is ever to be
realized some practical steps must be taken looking to the actual
achievement of the possibility--hence the "Zionite Movement." The keynotes
of that movement are heard in the following utterances of some of the
Jewish leaders in explanation of it. "We want to resume the broken thread
of our national existence; we want to show to the world the moral
strength, the intellectual power of the Jewish people. We want a place
where the race can be centralized."---(Leon Zoltokoff). "It is for these
Jews (of Russia, Roumania and Galicia) that the name of their country
(Palestine) spells `Hope.' I should not be a man if I did not realize that
for these persecuted Jews, Jerusalem spells reason justice, manhood and
liberty."---(Rabbi Emil G. Hirsch). "Jewish nationalism on a modern basis
in Palestine, the old home of the people."--(Max Nordau). Palestine needs
a people, Israel needs a country. Give the country without a people to the
people without a country."--(Israel Zangwill). In a word it is the purpose
of "Zionism" to redeem Palestine, and give it back to Jewish control,
create, in fact, a Jewish state in the land promised to their fathers.

	The age has come when the promises of the Lord to Israel must be
fulfilled; and hence an apostle of the new dispensation of the Gospel is
sent by divine authority to dedicate the land of Palestine preparatory to
the return of Israel to his promised inheritance. After which follows this
strange and world-wide movement among the Jews looking to the
re-establishment of "Jewish nationalism on a modern basis in Palestine."
What other relationship can exist between the mission of the Apostle Orson
Hyde and this world-wide movement among the Jews for the re-establishment
of Israel in Palestine, but the relationship of cause to effect---under,
of course, the larger fact that the set time for the restoration of Israel
has come? The apostle's mission to Jerusalem for the purpose of dedicating
that land, preparatory to the return of Israel, was without doubt part of
the general program for the restoration of Israel to their lands and to
the favor and blessing of God. The Doctrinal Development of the Church.

	The doctrinal development in this period of the dispensation of the
fullness of times, namely, between July, 1839, and the month of May, 1842,
about three years, was chiefly in relation to salvation for the dead, and
the sacred ritual of the Temple. The foundation for this doctrinal
development in relation to salvation for the dead, was laid in the very
inception of the work. On the occasion of the first visit of the angel
Moroni to the Prophet, on the night of the 21st of September, 1823, among
other ancient prophecies quoted by him, and which he declared was soon to
be fulfilled, was the prophecy in the fourth chapter of Malachi in
relation to the future coming of Elijah the prophet, "before the coming of
the great and dreadful day of the Lord." As quoted by the angel there was
a slight variation in the language from King James' version, as follows'
"Behold, I will reveal unto you the Priesthood by the hand of Elijah the
prophet, before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord. And
he shall plant in the hearts of the children the promises made to the
fathers, and the hearts of the children shall turn to their fathers; if it
were not so, the whole world would be wasted at his coming."

	Here the promise is made, that in consequence of the restoration of a
certain Priesthood, or special keys of authority held by Elijah, the
promises made to the fathers shall be planted in the hearts of the
children, "and the hearts of the children shall turn to their fathers."
Why? For a complete answer to that question the Church waited some years.
Again, and still early in the history of the work, namely, March, 1830,
the Lord in a revelation to Martin Harris through the Prophet Joseph,
added another line or two of knowledge to this doctrine; knowledge which
pushed out of the horizon of men's conceptions the terrible and unjust
doctrine respecting the eternal punishment which God is supposed to
inflict upon those who fail to obey the Gospel in this life, and also
those who died in ignorance of it. In explanation of the terms, "eternal
punishment," and "everlasting punishment," sometimes found in Holy Writ,
the Lord said to the Prophet' "Behold, I am endless, and the punishment
which is given from my hand is endless, for endless is my name.
Wherefore---

	"Endless punishment is God's punishment."

	That is to say, the punishment takes the name of Him in whose name it
is inflicted; as if it were written, "Eternal's punishment," "Endless's
punishment." And also, it must be understood, that the punishment itself
is endless. That is, penalties always attend upon law, and follow its
violation. That is an eternal principle. Law is inconceivable without
accompanying penalties. But it does not follow that those who fall into
the transgression of law, and therefore under sentence of Eternal's
justice, will have to endure affliction of the penalty eternally. Justice
can be satisfied. Mercy must be accorded her claims, and the culprit
having been brought to repentance and taught obedience to law through the
things which he has suffered, must go free. But only to suffer again the
penalties of the law, if he again violates it; for laws and their
penalties are eternal. Hence eternal punishment, hence endless punishment
administered to the violator of the law, until he learns to live in
harmony with law. For, on the one hand, as "that which is governed by law
is also preserved by law, and perfected and sanctified by the same; so
"that which breaketh a law and abideth not by the law, but seeketh to
become a law unto itself, and willeth to abide in sin and altogether
abideth in sin, cannot be sanctified by law, neither by mercy, justice,
nor judgment. Therefore they must remain filthy still." Thus obedience to
law becomes a savor of life unto life; while disobedience to law equally
becomes a savor of death unto death.

	In February, 1832, still further light was shed upon the subject of
the different states or degrees of glory in which men will live in the
future, by the revelation known as "The Vision." This revelation is one of
the sublimest ever given to man. It utterly discredits and displaces the
dogmas about the future of man held by Christendom, or at least by
Protestant Christendom. The orthodox, Protestant view of man's future is
that there are two states in one or the other of which man will spend
eternity--in heaven or in hell. If one shall gain heaven, even by ever so
small a margin, he will enter immediately upon a complete possession of
all its unspeakable joys, equally with the angels and the holiest of
Saints. Not only in the "Shorter Catechisms," but in nearly all orthodox
creeds the accepted doctrine was: "The souls of believers are at their
death made perfect in holiness." On the other hand, if one shall miss
heaven, even by ever so small a margin, he is doomed to everlasting
torment equally with the wickedest of men and vilest of devils, and there
is no deliverance for him through all the countless ages of eternity! It
will be noted that I have excepted out of participating in the above view
of man's future, the Catholic church, by ascribing these views only to
orthodox Protestant Christendom. This is because the Catholic church
doctrine slightly differs from the doctrine of the Protestants on this
subject. That is Catholics do not believe that all Christians at death go
immediately into heaven, but on the contrary "believe that a Christian who
dies after the guilt and everlasting punishment of mortal sins have been
forgiven him, but who, either from want of opportunity, or through his
negligence has not discharged the debt of temporal punishment due to his
sin, will have to discharge that debt to the justice of God in purgatory."
"Purgatory is a state of suffering after this life, in which those souls
are for a time detained, which depart this life after their deadly sins
have been remitted as to the stain and guilt, and as to the everlasting
pain that was due to them, but which souls have on account of those sins
still some temporal punishment to pay; as also those souls which leave
this world guilty only of venial (that is pardonable) sins. In purgatory
these souls are purified and rendered fit to enter into heaven, where
nothing defiled enters." As all works of the Catholic church accessible
to me have nothing on the different degrees of glory in which men shall
subsist in eternity, I conclude that Catholic teaching is that they who
finally attain unto heaven are all equal in glory. So that in the last
analysis of the matter, Catholic doctrine falls as far below the great
truth that God has revealed upon the subject of the future estate of man,
as the doctrine of Orthodox Protestant Christendom.

	Here is not the place for an extended exposition of the doctrine in
relation to the future state of man as revealed to Joseph Smith in the
revelation called "The Vision." It must suffice here to say that its
central principle is resident in the justice and the mercy of God, that
requires that every man shall be judged according to his works, considered
in the light of his intelligence, his consciousness of right and wrong,
and the moral law under which he lived. If he lived in the earth when the
Gospel of Jesus Christ was not in the world, or if he lived at places or
in circumstances where he did not learn of its existence, much less come
to a knowledge of its truths, then the plain dictates of justice demand
that some means must exist by which its sanctifying powers may be applied
to him in the future; so also as to those who have even once rejected the
truth (as in the case of the antediluvians who rejected the teaching of
righteous Noah, and were disobedient, when once the long suffering of God
waited in vain in those days for their repentance); having paid the just
penalty of their disobedience, then justice would demand that some means
must exist by which the saving principles of the Gospel of Jesus Christ
may be applied to them; for only by the acceptance of the principles of
the Gospel, and by the application of its laws and ordinances as the means
by which the grace of God is applied to man, can the sons of men hope for
salvation. Then as men differ in degree of intelligence; in the intensity
of their faith; in the heartiness of their obedience; in the steadiness of
their fidelity; and in as much as there is the stern fact of human freedom
and responsibility, and the possibility of a short or long resistance to
the will of God, even up to eternal resistance to that will, there is an
infinitude of states of glory, of so called rewards and punishments, in
which man will live in the future. There is one glory of which the sun in
heaven is spoken of as being typical; another of which the inferior light
of the moon is typical; and another of which the varying light of the
stars is typical. And even as one star differs from another star in glory,
in light, so differ those states of existence in which men will live in
the future, but each assigned to a place, to an environment, that
corresponds to the status of his development; which is only the modern way
of saying he shall be judged according to his works. These, in brief, are
the underlying principles of this remarkable revelation; a revelation
which in every way is worthy the encomium that the Prophet Joseph himself
bestowed upon it at the time of its inception: "Nothing could be more
pleasing to the Saints upon the order of the Kingdom of the Lord, than the
light which burst upon the world through the foregoing Vision. Every law,
every commandment, every promise, every truth, and every point touching
the destiny of man, from Genesis to Revelation, where the purity of the

	Scriptures remains unsullied by the folly of men, go to show the
perfection of the theory [of different degrees of glory in the future
life] and witnesses the fact that that document is a transcript from the
records of the eternal world."

	In June, 1836, while attending to washings and anointings in the
Kirtland Temple, previous to its dedication, the Prophet received still
further knowledge as to the future state of man. This also was by means of
a vision. He says: "The heavens were opened upon us, and I beheld the
celestial kingdom of God, and the glory thereof, whether in the body or
out, I cannot tell. I saw the transcendent beauty of the gate through
which the heirs of that kingdom will enter, which was like unto circling
flames of fire; also the blazing throne of God, whereon was seated the
Father and the Son. I saw the beautiful streets of that kingdom, which had
the appearance of being paved with gold. I saw Fathers Adam and Abraham,
and my father and mother, my brother, Alvin, that has long since slept,
and marveled how it was that he had obtained an inheritance in that
kingdom, seeing that he had departed this life before the Lord had set His
hand to gather Israel the second time, and had not been baptized for the
remission of sins. Thus came the voice of the Lord unto me saying---

	"All who have died without a knowledge of this Gospel, who would have
received it if they had been permitted to tarry, shall be heirs of the
celestial kingdom of God; also all that shall die henceforth without a
knowledge of it, who would have received it with all their hearts, shall
be heirs of that kingdom, for I, the Lord, will judge all men according to
their works, according to the desire of their hearts.
	"And I also beheld that all children who die before they arrive at
the years of accountability, are saved in the celestial kingdom of heaven.

	The next step in the development of this doctrine of salvation for
the dead was the coming of Elijah to "turn the heart of the fathers to the
children, and the heart of the children to the fathers," according to
Malachi; to restore the priesthood and "plant in the hearts of the
children the promises made to the fathers," by which "the hearts of the
children shall be turned to the fathers," according to Moroni. And Elijah
committed the keys of this dispensation of turning the hearts of the
fathers and children towards each other to Joseph Smith and to Oliver
Cowdery. This took place in the Kirtland Temple on the 3rd of April,
1836.

	It was not, however, until the Nauvoo period that the doctrine of
salvation for the dead was fully developed and active steps taken looking
to the actual performance of ordinances in their behalf. In the revelation
that was given on the 19th of January, 1841, the Saints were commanded to
build a house unto the Lord, a Holy Temple unto the Most High. "For," said
this revelation, "there is not a place found on earth that He may come to
and restore again that which was lost unto you, or which He hath taken
away, even the fullness of the Priesthood; for a baptismal font there is
not upon the earth, that they, my Saints, may be baptized for those who
are dead; for this ordinance belongeth to my house, and cannot be
acceptable to me, only in the days of your poverty, wherein ye are not
able to build a house unto me. But I command you, all ye my Saints, to
build a house unto me; and I grant unto you a sufficient time to build a
house unto me, and during this time your baptisms shall be acceptable unto
me." That is, the baptisms for the dead should be acceptable unto the Lord
in other places than the temple, until the temple should be prepared for
that ordinance, if the Saints would be diligent and build it according to
the Lord's appointment. Moreover, the information is imparted in the
revelation that, it is in Zion, and in her stakes, and in Jerusalem, those
places which I [the Lord] have appointed for refuge, shall be the places
for your baptisms for your dead."

	After this revelation was given to the Church baptism for the dead
was a subject frequently expounded in Nauvoo, both by the Prophet and
other leading elders. It was a theme upon which the Twelve Apostles dwelt
in their Epistles to the Church both in America and in Great Britain.
Baptisms for the dead were performed for some time in the Mississippi
river, and later, in the latter part of November, 1841, in the baptismal
font erected in the basement of the Temple, and dedicated for that sacred
purpose. For a time some irregularities obtained in relation to this
ordinance owing to the fact that the perfect knowledge of the order of it
had not then been obtained, but was developed later in this Nauvoo period
of the History of the Church, as will appear in Volume V of this work.

	It was a mighty stride forward in the doctrinal development of the
Church, this idea of the possibility of salvation for the dead through the
administration of the ordinances of the Gospel for and in their behalf by
their kindred on earth; and greatly enlarged the views of the Saints in
relation to the importance and wide spread effects of their work. The ends
of the earth indeed converged in the labors of the Saints henceforth, for
their activities in the administrations of the holy ordinances of the
Gospel would affect all past generations as well as affect all generations
to come. It was a bringing into view the full half of the work which up to
this time had lain hidden behind the horizon of men's conceptions of that
"great and marvelous work" which God from the beginning declared was about
to be brought forth among the children of men.

	Other Doctrines of the Prophet's Teaching.

	Other doctrines taught by the Prophet within the period covered by
this volume, relate to the Priesthood; to the Status of Translated
Persons; to Man's Personal Responsibility for his own conduct, to Election
and Reprobation. A word in relation to each of these doctrines must
suffice here since they do not reach their full development in the
teachings of the Prophet until the last two years of his eventful life,
and must therefore receive fuller treatment in the Introduction of Volume
V.

	Relative to the Priesthood, the most important items advanced by the
Prophet in this volume, are, first, the unity of all Priesthood, and
second, the place and power assigned to Adam in the order of the
dispensations of the Gospel granted to our earth. Treating on the unity of
the Priesthood, the Prophet said' "There are two Priesthoods spoken of in
the Scriptures, viz., the Melchisedek and the Aaronic or Levitical.
Although there are two Priesthoods, yet the Melchisedek Priesthood
comprehends the Aaronic or Levitical Priesthood, and is the grand head,
and holds the highest authority which pertains to the Priesthood, and the
keys of the kingdom of God in all ages of the world to the latest
posterity on the earth, and is the channel through which all knowledge,
doctrine, the plan of salvation, and every important matter is revealed
from heaven. Its institution was prior to 'the foundation of this earth,
or the morning stars sang together, or the Sons of God shouted for joy,'
and is the highest and holiest Priesthood, and is after the order of the
Son of God, and all other Priesthoods are only parts, ramifications,
powers and blessings belonging to the same, and are held, controlled, and
directed by it. It is the channel through which the Almighty commenced
revealing His glory at the beginning of the creation of this earth, and
through which He has continued to reveal Himself to the children of men to
the present time, and through which He will make known His purposes to the
end of time."

	Respecting the place of Adam in the Priesthood and his relationship
to the dispensations of that Priesthood to our earth, the Prophet said:
"Commencing with Adam, who was the first man, who is spoken of in Daniel
as being the 'Ancient of Days,' or in other words, the first and oldest of
all, the great, grand progenitor of whom it is said in another place he is
Michael, because he was the first and father of all, not only by progeny,
but the first to hold the spiritual blessings, to whom was made known the
plan of ordinances for the salvation of his posterity unto the end, and to
whom Christ was first revealed, and through whom Christ has been revealed
from heaven, and will continue to be revealed from henceforth. Adam holds
the keys of the dispensation of the fullness of times; i.e., the
dispensation of all the times have been and will be revealed through him
from the beginning to Christ, and from Christ to the end of all the
dispensations that are to be revealed. `Having made known unto us the
mystery of His will, according to His good pleasure which He hath purposed
in Himself' that in the dispensation of the fullness of times He might
gather together in one all things in Christ, both which are in heaven, and
which are on earth; even in him (Ephesians, 1st chap., 9th and 10th
verses). Now the purpose in Himself in the winding up scene of the last
dispensation is that all things pertaining to that dispensation should be
conducted precisely in accordance with the preceding dispensations. And
again. God purposed in Himself that there should not be an eternal
fullness until every dispensation should be fulfilled and gathered
together in one, and that all things whatsoever, that should be gathered
together in one in those dispensations unto the same fullness and eternal
glory, should be in Christ Jesus; therefore He set the ordinances to be
the same forever and ever, and set Adam to watch over them, to reveal them
from heaven to man, or to send angels to reveal them.  *   *   *   * 
These angels are under the direction of Michael or Adam, who acts under
the direction of the Lord.  *  *   *   *  There are many things which
belong to the powers of the Priesthood and the keys thereof, that have
been kept hid from before the foundation of the world; they are hid from
the wise and prudent to be revealed in the last times."

	That it was the design of the Lord in building the Temple at Nauvoo,
that there should be other ordinances revealed besides "baptism for the
dead," is clearly manifested in the revelation itself, for it says' "And
again, verily I say unto you, how shall your washings be acceptable unto
me, except ye perform them in a house which you have built to my name.  * 
 *   *  *  Therefore, verily I say unto you, that your anointings, and
your washings, and your baptisms for the dead, and your solemn assemblies,
and your memorials for your sacrifices, by the sons of Levi and for your
oracles in your most holy places wherein you receive conversations, and
your statutes and judgments, for the beginning of the revelations and
foundation of Zion, and for the glory, honor, and endowment of all her
municipals, are ordained by the ordinance of my holy house which my people
are always commanded to build unto my holy name. And verily I say unto
you, let this house be built unto my name, that I may reveal mine
ordinances therein, unto my people; for I deign to reveal unto my Church
things which have been kept hid from before the foundation of the word,
things that pertain to the dispensation of the fullness of times."

	The ordinances here mentioned in addition to baptism for the dead are
chiefly connected with the Priesthood of the Church, and were fully
developed in the teachings of the Prophet before the close of his eventful
career.

	As to the status of translated personages, he said' "Many have
supposed that the doctrine of translation was a doctrine whereby men were
taken immediately into the presence of God, and into an eternal fulness,
but this is a mistaken idea. Their place of habitation is that of the
terrestrial order, and a place prepared for such characters He held in
reserve to be ministering angels unto many planets, and who as yet have
not entered into as great a fullness as those who are resurrected from the
dead."

	Of man being personally responsible for his own conduct, he is
reported by the Editor of the Times and Seasons as saying' "He [the
Prophet] then observed that Satan was generally blamed for the evils which
we did, but if he was the cause of all our wickedness, men could not be
condemned. The devil could not compel mankind to do evil; all was
voluntary. Those who resisted the Spirit of God, would be liable to be led
into temptation, and then the association of heaven would be withdrawn
from those who refused to be made partakers of such great glory. God would
not exert any compulsory means, and the devil could not; and such ideas as
were entertained [on these subjects] by many were absurd." What beautiful
harmony between the Prophet's doctrine here and that of the Apostle James'
"Let no man say when he is tempted, I am tempted of God' for God cannot be
tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man' But every man is tempted,
when he is drawn away of his own lusts, and enticed. Then when lust hath
conceived, it bringing forth sin' and sin when it is finished, bringeth
forth death."

	Of election, a term used generally in connection with reprobation,
when commenting on the 9th Chapter of Romans,--wherein Paul is supposed to
teach the doctrine of election,---the Prophet is represented as saying:
"He then spoke on the subject of election, and read the 9th chapter of
Romans, from which it was evident that the election there spoken of was
pertaining to the flesh, and had reference to the seed of Abraham,
according to the promise God made to Abraham, saying, "In thee, and in thy
seed, all the families of the earth shall be blessed. * * * The whole of
the chapter had reference to the Priesthood and the house of Israel: and
unconditional election of individuals to eternal life was not taught by
the Apostles. God did elect or predestinate, that all those who would be
saved, should be saved in Christ Jesus, and through obedience to the
Gospel, but He passes over no man's sins, but visits them with correction,
and if His children will not repent of their sins He will discard them."

	These several doctrines mark rapid development in the Prophet's work
as an instructor in sacred things, and clearly indicate his increasing
capacity and power as Prophet, Seer and Teacher.


       HISTORY OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS. 
             PERIOD I. HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH THE PROPHET. 
                               VOLUME IV
               CHAPTER I. THE DEPARTURE OF THE TWELVE FOR 
  ENGLAND--MANIFESTATION OF GOD'S POWER IN HEALING THE SICK AT COMMERCE.

	Friday, July 5, 1839.--I was dictating history, I say dictating, for
I seldom use the pen myself. I always dictate all my communications, but
employ a scribe to write them.

	Saturday, 6.--I was at home reviewing the Church records.

	Sunday, 7.--I was at the meeting held in the open air, at which a
large assemblage was expected to listen to the farewell address of the
Twelve, who were then about to take their departure on a most important
mission, namely to the nations of the earth and the islands of the sea.

	Elder John E. Page being the first of the Twelve present, opened the
meeting by addressing a few words of an introductory nature; after singing
and prayer, Elder Page delivered a very interesting discourse on the
subject of the Book of Mormon, recapitulating, in short terms, the
principles of a former discourse on the same subject, and afterwards
proceeded to read portions from the Bible and Book of Mormon concerning
the best criterions whereby to judge of the authenticity of the latter;
and then went on to show in a very satisfactory manner, that no impostor
would ever attempt to make such promises as are contained on pages five
hundred forty-one, and five hundred and thirty-four. He then bore
testimony.

	After noon the meeting was again opened by prayer. Elder John Taylor
spoke on the subject of this dispensation; the other angel which John saw,
having the everlasting Gospel to preach, he then bore testimony of the
truth of the Book of Mormon.

	Elder Woodruff's address went chiefly to exhortation to the Saints;
after which he also bore his testimony.

	Elder Orson Hyde next came forward, and having alluded to his own
late fall,+ exhorted all to perseverance in the things of God, expressed
himself one with his brethren, and bore testimony to his knowledge of the
truth, and the misery of falling from it.

	Elder Brigham Young made some very appropriate remarks, and also bore
testimony to the truth of these things, and gave an invitation to come
forward and be baptized, when three manifested their determination to
renounce the world and take upon themselves the name of Jesus Christ. One
brother was then confirmed; after which President Sidney Rigdon addressed
the meeting in a very feeling manner. He showed that it must be no small
matter which could induce men to leave their families and their homes to
travel over all the earth amidst persecutions and trials, such as always
followed the preaching of this Gospel. He then addressed himself to the
Twelve and gave them some counsel and consolation as far as lay in his
power; after which I requested their prayers, and promised to pray for
them.

	The meeting was large and respectable; a great number were present
who did not belong to the Church. The most perfect order prevailed
throughout. The meeting was dismissed about half past five, when we
repaired to the water, and the three candidates were baptized and
confirmed.

	Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday, 8th, 9th and 10th of July.--I was with
the Twelve selecting hymns, for the purpose of compiling a hymn book.

	About this time much sickness began to manifest itself among the
brethren, as well as among the inhabitants of the place, so that this week
and the following were generally spent in visiting the sick and
administering to them; some had faith enough and were healed; others had
not.

	Sunday, 21.--There was no meeting on account of much rain and much
sickness; however of the sick were this day raised up by the power of God,
through the instrumentality of the Elders of Israel ministering unto them
in the name of Jesus Christ.

	Monday and Tuesday, 22nd and 23rd.--The sick were administered unto
with great success, but many remain sick, and new cases are occurring
daily.

	Sunday 28.--Meeting was held as usual. Elder Parley P. Pratt preached
on the gathering of Israel. In the afternoon Orson Pratt addressed the
Church on the necessity of keeping the commandments of God. I spoke, and
admonished the members of the Church individually to set their houses in
order, to make clean the inside of the platter, and to meet on the next
Sabbath to partake of the Sacrament, in order that by our obedience to the
ordinances, we might be enabled to prevail with God against the destroyer,
and that the sick might be healed.

	All this week chiefly spent among the sick, who in general are
gaining strength, and recovering health.

	Sunday, August 4.--The Church came together for prayer meeting and
Sacrament. I exhorted the Church at length, concerning the necessity of
being righteous, and clean at heart before the Lord. Many others also
spoke; especially some of the Twelve, who were present, professed their
willingness to proceed on their mission to Europe, without either purse or
scrip. The Sacrament was administered; a spirit of humility and harmony
prevailed, and the Church passed a resolution that the Twelve proceed on
their mission as soon as possible, and that the Saints provide for their
families during their absence.

	Letter to Isaac Russell, reproving him for issuing pretended
revelations to the Saints.

	COMMERCE, HANCOCK COUNTY, ILLINOIS, 5th August, 1839.

	DEAR SIR:--I have been requested to write you on behalf of the
Twelve, who are just on the eve of their departure for England, and inform
you, that "this thing" which you have thought proper to write as a
revelation "to the Church in Alston and the branches round about," to
which you yourself administered, has "already come to the knowledge of the
Churches" both here and elsewhere, and lest you should have any doubt
concerning the fact, we send you a copy of your revelation to that Church.

	I am sir, with all respect, Yours truly, JAMES MULHOLLAND.

	P. S.--Isaiah chap. I, 10th and 11th verses. In my own behalf I wish
to state that I sincerely wish that it may soon come to pass that you,
sir, and all our friends at Far West may perceive that you are walking in
the light of a fire, and sparks that you have yourselves kindled; and that
you may turn around and fear the Lord, obey the voice of His servant, and
thereby escape the sentence, "Ye shall lie down in sorrow." J. M.

	To Mr. Isaac Russell, Far West, Missouri.

	Friday, 9.--A Conference was held at Brother Caleb Bennett's Monmouth
County, New Jersey, Elder John P. Greene presiding. The New York and
Brooklyn branches were represented by the President as being in good
fellowship. There were represented at this conference the following
branches, by Elder Ball, Shrewsbury, New Jersey, numbering twenty members;
Montage, three; Minissink, New Hampshire, two; Albany, eight; Holliston,
Massachusetts, sixteen; Elder Dunham represented Hamilton, Madison County,
forty-six; Samuel James, Leechburg, Pennsylvania, forty.

	Sunday, 11.--I attended meeting in the forenoon and heard a sermon by
Parley P. Pratt. In the afternoon there was one baptized, and four were
confirmed, namely,

	Brother Hibbard, his wife, little son, and daughter. The Sacrament
was administered.

	This week I spent chiefly in visiting the sick; sickness much
decreased.

	Sunday, 18.--Rode out in the forenoon. Orson Pratt preached upon the
order and plan of creation. Three were baptized.

	Afternoon: Three confirmed and one ordained an Elder.

	This week I spent chiefly among the sick. The Church made a purchase
of eighty acres from William White for four thousand dollars, lying
directly north of the Hugh White purchase.

	Sunday, 25.--I attended meeting. Sickness decreasing.

	Thursday, 29.--Elders Parley P. Pratt and family Orson Pratt and
Hiram Clark, started on their mission to England, in their own two-horse
carriage--their route lying through Illinois, Indiana, and to Detroit, the
capital of Michigan, situated near the head of Lake Erie, about five
hundred and eighty miles distant.

	Saturday, 31.--The work is spreading in England. EIder Richards went
to the Staffordshire potteries this day, and Presidents Joseph Fielding
and William Clayton were visiting and setting in order many of the
branches, and ordaining many to the ministry who are diligent in preaching
as they have opportunity on the Sabbath in the surrounding villages.

	Sunday, September 1.--I attended meeting, and spoke concerning some
errors in Parley P. Pratt's writings. This week sickness much decreased.

	Monday, 9, and the greater part of the week.--I spent in visiting the
sick, and attending to the settlement of our new town.

	The Prophet's Letter to Isaac Galland.--Nauvoo Affairs.

	COMMERCE, ILLINOIS, 11th September, 1839.

	DEAR BROTHER GALLAND:--We have had the great pleasure of receiving
your favor of the 24th July; and learning thereby that you and your family
had arrived at Chillicothe in safety and in health. We perceive that you
have had a rather narrow escape from a serious accident; and doubtless the
hand of the Lord is to be acknowledged in the matter, although unperceived
by mortal eye. Time and experience will teach us more and more how easily
falsehood gains credence with mankind in general, rather than the truth;
but especially in taking into consideration the plan of salvation. The
plain simple order of the Gospel of Jesus Christ never has been discerned
or acknowledged as the truth, except by a few--among whom were "not many
wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble; " whilst the
majority have contented themselves with their own private opinions, or
have adopted those of others, according to their address, their
philosophy, their formula, their policy, or their fineness may have
attracted their attention, or pleased their taste. But, sir, of all the
other criterions whereby we may judge of the vanity of these things, one
will be always found true, namely, that we will always find such
characters glorying in their own wisdom and their own works; whilst the
humble Saint gives all the glory to God the Father, and to His Son Jesus
Christ, whose yoke is easy and whose burden is light, and who told His
disciples that unless they became like little children they could not
enter the Kingdom of Heaven.

	As to the situation of the Church here, matters go with us as well as
can reasonably be expected; we have had considerable sickness amongst us,
but very few deaths; and as the greater part are now recovering we yet
hope to have shelters provided before the winter shall set in.

	Since you left here, we have purchased out all Mr. Hotchkiss'
interest hereabouts. His farm we have laid out as an addition to our town,
Nauvoo, and the town of Commerce we also hope to build up.

	Some of the Twelve and others have already started for Europe, and
the remainder of that mission we expect will go now in a few days.
According to intelligence received since you left, the work of the Lord
rolls on in a very pleasing manner, both in this and in the old country.
In England many hundreds have of late been added to our numbers; but so,
even so, it must be, for "Ephraim he hath mixed himself among the people."
And the Savior He hath said, "My sheep hear my voice;" and also, "He that
heareth you, heareth me;" and, "Behold I will bring them again from the
north country, and gather them from the coasts of the earth." And as John
heard the voice saying, "Come out of her, my people, "even so must all be
fulfilled; that the people of the Lord may live when "Babylon the great is
fallen, is fallen."

	There has quite a number of families gathered up here already; and we
anticipate a continuance, especially as upon inquiry we have found that we
have not had more than [the usual] ratio of sickness here, notwithstanding
the trials we have had, and the hardships to which we have been exposed.
Calculating as we do, upon the mercy and power of God in our behalf, we
hope to persevere on in every good and useful work, even unto the end,
that when we come to be tried in the balance we may not be found wanting.

	With all good wishes and prayers for the temporal and eternal
salvation of yourself and your family, as well as of all the honest in
heart over the face of the earth,

	We remain, sir, with sincerity, Your friend and brother, JOSEPH
SMITH, Jun.

	Addressed to Isaac Galland, Esq., Kirtland, Geauga, County, Ohio.

	Friday, 13.--I left home for Brother William Smith's place.

	Saturday, 14.--President Brigham Young started from his home at
Montrose, for England. His health was very poor; he was unable to go
thirty rods to the river without assistance. After he had crossed the
ferry he got Brother Israel Barlow to carry him on his horse behind him to
Heber C. Kimball's where he remained sick until the 18th. He left his wife
sick with a babe only ten days old, and all his children sick, unable to
wait upon each other. I returned home this evening.

	Sunday, 15.--I was visiting the sick.

	Monday and Tuesday, 16 and 17.--Was engaged in arranging the town
lots.

	Wednesday, 18.--Went to Burlington, Iowa Territory. Elders Young and
Kimball left Sister Kimball and all her children sick, except little
Heber; went thirteen miles on their journey towards England and were left
at Brother Osmon M. Duel's who lived in a small cabin near the railway
between Commerce and Warsaw. They were so feeble as to be unable to carry
their trunks into the house without the assistance of Sister Duel, who
received them kindly, prepared a bed for them to lie on, and made them a
cup of tea.

	Thursday, 19.--I Returned this evening from Burlington.

	Brother Duel carried Elders Young and Kimball in his wagon to Lima,
sixteen miles, where another brother received them and carried them to
Father Mikesell's near Quincy, about twenty miles; the fatigue of this day
was too much for their feeble health; they were prostrated, and obliged to
tarry a few days to recruit.

	Friday and Saturday, 20 and 21.--At home attending to domestic and
Church business.

	Elders George A. Smith, Reuben Hedlock, and Theodore Turley started
for England, and upset their wagon on the bank of the river, before they
got out of sight of Commerce. Elders Smith and Turley were so weak they
could not get up, and Brother Hedlock had to lift them in again. Soon
after, some gentlemen met them and asked who had been robbing the burying
ground--so miserable was their appearance through sickness.

	Sunday, 22.--I presided at the meeting, and spoke concerning the
"other Comforter," as I had previously taught the Twelve.

	This week I spent in transacting various business at home, except
when visiting the sick, who are in general recovering, though some of them
but slowly.

	Wednesday, 25.--President Young went to Charles C. Rich's; 26th, to
Brother Wilber's; 27th, Brother Wilber carried Elders Young and Kimball to
Pittsfield.

	Sunday, 29.--Held meeting at my own house. After others had spoken I
spoke and explained concerning the uselessness of preaching to the world
about great judgments, but rather to preach the simple Gospel. Explained
concerning the coming of the Son of Man; also that it is a false idea that
the Saints will escape all the judgments, whilst the wicked suffer; for
all flesh is subject to suffer, and "the righteous shall hardly escape;"
still many of the Saints will escape, for the just shall live by faith;
yet many of the righteous shall fall a prey to disease, to pestilence,
etc., by reason of the weakness of the flesh, and yet be saved In the
Kingdom of God. So that it is an unhallowed principle to say that such and
such have transgressed because they have been preyed upon by disease or
death, for all flesh is subject to death; and the Savior has said, "judge
not, lest ye be judged."

	Monday, 30.--The fore part of this week I was at home preparing for
Conference. Elders Young and Kimball went to Brother Decker's and Mr.
Murray's, Sister Kimball's father.

	Tuesday, October 1.--Elders Young and Kimball went to Brother Lorenzo
Young's.

	Thursday, 3.--I was in counsel with the brethren.

	Friday, 4.--Lorenzo Young carried Elders Young and Kimball to
Jacksonville.

	Saturday, 5.--The friends and brethren conveyed the Elders of the
British Mission to Springfield, where they were kindly treated and nursed,
for they were yet very feeble.

	I attended a general conference of the Church of Jesus

	Christ of Latter-day Saints at Commerce, Hancock County, Illinois, of
which the following are the minutes:

	Minutes of Conference at Commerce, Illinois, October 6th, 7th and
8th, 1839.

	The meeting was opened by prayer by President Joseph Smith, Jun.,
after which he was appointed President, and James Sloan Clerk of the
conference, by a unanimous voice of the meeting. The President then spoke
at some length upon the situation of the Church; the difficulties they
have had to contend with; and the manner in which they had been led to
this place; and wanted to know the views of the brethren, whether they
wished to appoint this a stake of Zion or not; stating that he believed it
to be a good place, and suited for the Saints. It was then unanimously
agreed upon that it should be appointed a stake and a place of gathering
for the Saints.

	The following officers were then appointed--namely, William Marks to
be President; Bishop Whitney to be Bishop of middle ward; Bishop Partridge
to be Bishop of upper ward; Bishop Knight to be Bishop of lower ward;
George W. Harris, Samuel Bent, Henry G. Sherwood, David Fullmer, Alpheus
Cutler, William Huntington, Thomas Grover, Newel Knight, Charles C. Rich,
David Dort, Seymour Brunson, Lewis D. Wilson, to be the High Council; who
being respectfully called upon accepted their appointment.

	It was then voted that a stake of the Church be established on the
west side of the river, in Iowa Territory; over which Elder John Smith was
appointed President; Alanson Ripley, Bishop; and Asahel Smith John M.
Burk, Abraham O. Smoot, Richard Howard, Willard Snow, Erastus Snow, David
Pettigrew, Elijah Fordham, Edward Fisher, Elias Smith, John Patten,
Stephen Chase, were elected High Council. Don C. Smith was elected to be
continued as President of the High Priesthood [High Priest's quorum].
Orson Hyde to stand in his former office, [an Apostle] and William Smith
to be continued in his standing, [in the quorum of the Twelve.]

	Letters were then read respecting the absence of members on account
of ill health. It was voted that Harlow Redfield be suspended until he can
have a trial; and in the meantime that he should not act as president of a
branch, or preach.

	Voted that John Daley, James Daley, and Milo Andrus retain their
station in the Church. Voted that Ephraim Owen's confession for disobeying
the Word of Wisdom be accepted.

	Brothers Edward Johnston, Benjamin Johnston, Samuel Musick, John S.
Fullmer, Jabez Lake, Benjamin Jones, Henry Our Bough, Reddin A. Allred,
George W. Gee, Jesse McIntyre, James

	Brown, Henry Miller, Artemas Johnson, Joseph G. Hovey, Robert D.
Foster, Fields B. Jacaway, Zadok Bethers, William Allred, William B.
Simmons, William W. Edwards, Sen., William H. Edwards, Jun., Hosea Stout,
Thomas Rich, Allen J. Stout, Esaias Edwards, John Adams, Daniel Miller,
Simeon J. Comfort, Graham Coltrin, William Hyde, Andrew Henry, Reddick N.
Allred, Eli Lee, Hiram W. Mikesell and Thomas S. Edwards were appointed
Elders of the Church, who all accepted of their appointment, with the
exception of Thomas S. Edwards.

	John Gaylord was admitted into the Church upon his confession. Abel
Casto was confirmed by the laying on of hands.

	The meeting then adjourned until Sunday morning; after which six were
baptized by Joseph Smith, Jun. The assembly was very large.

	The conference met on Sunday morning, the 6th, pursuant to
adjournment at eight o'clock a.m., when Samuel Williams, Reuben Foot,
Orlando D. Hovey, Tunis Rappleyee, Sheffield Daniels, Albert Milner, David
B. Smith, Ebenezer Richardson, Pleasant Ewell, and William Helm were
appointed Elders of the Church, and were ordained under the hands of
Reynolds Cahoon, Seymour Brunson, Samuel Bent and Alpheus Cutler.

	After some remarks from the President respecting order, and decorum
during conference, Elder Lyman Wight spoke concerning the duties of
Priests and Teachers. President Joseph Smith, Jun., then addressed the
conference, in relation to appointing a Patriarch, and other matters
connected with the well being of the Church.

	Having now got through the business matters, the President proceeded
to give instruction to the Elders respecting preaching the Gospel, and
pressed upon them the necessity of getting the Spirit, so that they might
preach with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; to be careful in
speaking on those subjects which are not clearly pointed out in the word
of God, which lead to speculation and strife.

	Those persons who had been baptized, were then confirmed, and several
children received blessings by Elders Cutler, Bent, and Brunson. Elder
Lyman Wight then addressed the meeting on the subject of raising funds by
contribution, towards paying for the lands which had been contracted for
as a settlement for the Church, after which contributions were received
for that purpose.

	Judge Elias Higbee was appointed to accompany Presidents Joseph
Smith, Jun., and Sidney Rigdon to the city of Washington.

	The meeting then adjourned until Monday morning.

	Conference met on Monday morning, October 7th, pursuant to
adjournment.

	The President spoke at some length to the Elders, and explained many
passages of Scripture. Elder Lyman Wight spoke on the subject of the
resurrection, and other important subjects; when he offered the following
resolution, which passed unanimously;

	Resolved: That a new edition of Hymn Books be printed immediately,
and that the one published by D. W. Rogers be utterly discarded by the
Church.

	Elder Ezra Hayes was then put upon trial for teaching doctrine
injurious to the Church, and for falsehoods, which were proven against
him; his license was taken from him, and he required to give satisfaction
to those whom he had offended.

	Charges having been preferred against Brother Rogers, it was agreed
that the case be handed over to the High Council.

	Asahel Perry made application to be received into fellowship, and was
voted into his former standing.

	After having referred the business not gone into, to the High
Council, the President then returned thanks to the conference for their
good attention and liberality, and having blessed them in the name of the
Lord, the conference was dismissed.

	The next conference was appointed to be held on the sixth day of
April next.

	Tuesday, 8.--After conference, this week I was mostly engaged in
attending to the general affairs of the Church, and principally about
home.

	Friday, 11.--This evening, Elders Young, Kimball, George A. Smith,
Hedlock, and Turley started from Springfield, traveled eight miles on
their journey, and stayed with Father Draper.

	Saturday, 12.--The Elders of the British Mission left Father Draper's
and pursued their journey toward Terre Haute.

	This day President Brigham Young's father, John Young, Sen., died at
Quincy, Adams County, Illinois. He was in his seventy-seventh year, and a
soldier of the Revolution. He was also a firm believer in the everlasting
Gospel of Jesus Christ; and fell asleep under the influence of that faith
that buoyed up his soul, in the pangs of death, to a glorious hope of
immortality; fully testifying to all, that the religion he enjoyed in life
was able to support him in death. He was driven from Missouri with the
Saints in the latter part of last year. He died a martyr to the religion
of Jesus, for his death was caused by his sufferings in the cruel
persecution.

	Sunday, 13.--I attended meeting in the grove. The assembly was small
on account of the cold weather.

	Tuesday, 15.--In the afternoon I went to Quincy in company with
Brother Hyrum Smith, John S. Fullmer, and Bishop Knight. Quite a number of
families moving into Commerce.

	Thursday, 17.--The brethren arrived at Terre Haute. Brothers Smith,
Hedlock, and Turley stopped at Brother Nahum Milton Stow's.

	In the evening Doctor Modisett went down to see the brethren, and
appeared to be very much affected to see them so sick, and having to lie
upon the floor on a straw bed that had been put in to the wagon at
Springfield, by the brethren, for Elder Young to lie on, as he was not
able to sit up when he left there. When the doctor returned home, he told
Elders Young and Kimball, he could not refrain from shedding tears to see
the brethren going upon such a long mission, and in such suffering
circumstances. Elders Young and Kimball said they thought the doctor might
have relieved them from "their suffering and indigent circumstances upon
their long mission," for he told them in the course of the evening, that
his taxes in that place amounted to over four hundred dollars, besides
having other property to a great amount.

	Elder Kimball was very sick; he stopped with Brother Young at Doctor
Modisett's. In the evening Doctor Modisett gave Elder Kimball about forty
drops of morphine, saying it would relieve him of his distress, and
probably he would get a nap. In about fifteen minutes Brother Kimball
complained of feeling very strange; he rose from his seat and would have
fallen, but Brother Young caught him and gently eased him to the floor,
where he lay for some time; and it was by faith and the close attention of
Brother Young and the family that his life was preserved through the
night.

	Friday, 18.--Brothers Smith, Hedlock, and Turley went on their
journey.

	Saturday, 19.--The High Council appointed for the Stake of the Church
in Iowa, met at Asahel Smith's, Nashville, and organized ; John Smith,
President; Elias Smith, Clerk; Reynolds Cahoon and Lyman Wight were chosen
Counselors to President John Smith, and approved by the Council. Council
organized according to number. Minutes of the Nauvoo High Council, 20th
October, 1839.

	The members of the High Council elected at the October conference,
met and organized at W. D. Huntington's, where Harlow Redfield was
restored to fellowship; and voted that this High Council disfellowship any
and all persons that shall hereafter carry over or ferry across the river,
any people or freight to the injury of said ferry from Commerce to
Montrose.

	Voted that the Horse Boat be repaired from the moneys received on
sale of lots in Nauvoo, and that D. C. Davis be master of said ferry boat
for the ensuing year.

	Voted that Joseph Smith, Jun., and his family be exempt from
receiving in future such crowds of visitors as have formerly thronged his
house; and that the same be published in the Times and Seasons.

	Voted that this Council disfellowship any and all persons who shall
knowingly suffer and allow any animal (subject to their control) to
destroy the crops, fruit, or plants of the earth belonging to any other
person or persons, and to their injury, and that this resolution be
published in the Times and Seasons.

	Adjourned until tomorrow evening.

	High Council met pursuant to adjournment, and voted that President
Joseph Smith, Jun., go as a delegate to Washington; and that if he went he
should have a recommend from the Council.

	Voted that James Mulholland be Clerk for the land contracts, when
needed by President Smith; that Joseph Smith, Jun., be treasurer of said
Church, and James Mulholland sub-treasurer.

	Voted that Henry G. Sherwood should set the price upon, exhibit,
contract and sell town lots in Nauvoo, when needed, and report his doings
to Presidents Joseph Smith and Hyrum Smith, for their approval, and that
five hundred dollars be the average price of lots, i.e., none less than
two hundred dollars, nor more than eight hundred dollars.

	Voted that the High Council meet every Sunday evening at Dimick
Huntington's; that D. C. Davis have thirty dollars per month for his
services as ferryman; and that these proceedings be published in the Times
and Seasons. [Signed] HENRY G. SHERWOOD, Clerk.

	Tuesday, 22.--Brother James Modisett took Elders Young and Kimball in
his father's carriage and carried them twenty miles to the house of
Brother Addison Pratt; from thence they were carried by Elder Almon W.
Babbitt to Pleasant Garden, and put up with Brother Jonathan Crosby. Elder
Almon Babbitt was preaching in that region with good success; he had
baptized five.

	Saturday, 26.--Brother Babbitt took Elders Young and Kimball ten
miles on their way to Father Scott's.

	King Follett, the last of the brethren in bonds in Missouri, had his
trial and was set free some time previous to this day.

	Sunday, 27.--John Scott took Elders Young and Kimball on their way
fifteen miles, some part of it in the rain; they were yet very feeble, and
put up at a tavern in Belville, and when the stage coach came along, took
passage, and rode night and day to Willowby, near Kirtland.

	The High Council of Nauvoo voted that the Clerk's fees of James
Mulholland be thirty dollars per month; that the treasurer pay Vinson
Knight one hundred and fifty dollars, for the Iowa side of the ferry at
Montrose as per charter.

	Voted, that Sister Emma Smith select and publish a hymn book for the
use of the Church, and that Brigham Young be informed of this action and
he not publish the hymns taken by him from Commerce; and that the

	Council assist in publishing a hymn book and the Times and Seasons.

	Monday, 28.--The High Council voted to build a stone house at Upper
Commerce, to be used for boarding; that Elder Oliver Granger be requested
to assist with funds to print the hymn book; that Samuel Dent, Davison
Hibbard, and David Dort be trustees for building the stone schoolhouse in
contemplation; and that Alpheus Cutler and Jabez Durphy be the architects
and building committee for said house.

	Voted, to finish the office of President Joseph Smith, Jun.

	Voted, that the recommends drawn by Elder Sherwood, recommending,
constituting, and appointing Joseph Smith, Jun., Sidney Rigdon, and Elias
Higbee, delegates for the Church, to importune the President and Congress
of the United States for redress of grievances, be signed by this Council.


                               CHAPTER II. 
     THE PROPHET'S JOURNEY TO WASHINGTON--THE PETITION OF THE SAINTS 
     TO THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED STATES FOR REDRESS OF THE WRONGS 
                     INFLICTED UPON THEM IN MISSOURI.

	Tuesday, 29.--I left Nauvoo accompanied by Sidney Rigdon, Elias
Higbee, and Orrin P. Rockwell, in a two-horse carriage for the city of
Washington, to lay before the Congress of the United States, the
grievances of the Saints while in Missouri. We passed through Carthage,
and stayed at Judge Higbee's over night, and the next day we arrived at
Quincy.

	Thursday, 31.--We tarried at Quincy to complete the necessary papers
for our mission. Elder Rigdon was sick.

	Friday, November 1.--We pursued our journey towards Springfield,
Illinois, and put up with Brother Wilber, where we found Doctor Robert D.
Foster, who administered to Elder Rigdon.

	Saturday, 2.--Continued our journey, and during the day put up with a
friend on the bank of the Illinois river, so that Dr. Foster, who had
accompanied us so far for that purpose, might administer medicine to Elder
Rigdon again.

	Sunday, 3.--Continued our journey and staid with a friend over night.
Dr. Foster continued to accompany us.

	Elders Young and Kimball arrived at Cleveland, Ohio, about 1 o'clock
in the morning; and while waiting for the stage until about noon, Elders
Smith, Turley, and Hedlock, who left them at Terre Haute, drove up, having
picked up Elder Taylor by the way, he having been left sick by his company
in the east part of Indiana. They were in good health, compared with what
they had been, and in fine spirits. George A. Smith tarried in Cleveland
till the next day, to visit his relatives. Brothers Young, Kimball,
Taylor, and Turley rode in the stage, and Brother Hedlock and Mr. Murray
in their wagon to Willoughby, and from thence they all rode into Kirtland
together.

	Monday, 4.--We arrived at Springfield, and put up with Brother John
Snider. When within one mile of the city, we met William Law and company
with seven wagons from Canada, who returned with us to Springfield, and
tarried while we did, until the 8th. I preached several times while here.
General James Adams, judge of probate, heard of me, sought me out, and
took me home with him, and treated me like a father.

	President Brigham Young and his brother John visited their sister,
Mrs. Kent.

	There was some division of sentiment among the Kirtland brethren.

	Thursday, 7.--The High Council of Iowa completed their organization
at Elijah Fordham's, at Montrose.

	Friday, 8.--We started from Springfield. Dr. Foster having concluded
to continue on the journey on account of Elder Rigdon's health, which was
still quite poor. We pursued our journey through Indiana towards Columbus,
Ohio. The traveling was bad, and our progress slow.

	Sunday, 10.--Elder Taylor preached in the forenoon, and Elder Kimball
in the afternoon, in the House of the Lord at Kirtland.

	Thursday, 14.--Elder Orson Hyde left Commerce, Illinois, intending to
go east as far as Philadelphia. He had just begun to recover from a four
months' illness of fever and ague.

	Sunday, 17.--President Young preached in the House of the Lord in the
forenoon, and John Taylor in the House of the Lord, and Elder Taylor
Brigham Young anointed Elder John Taylor in the House of the Lord, and
Elder Daniel S. Miles anointed Theodore Turley, all of which was sealed
with the shout of Hosanna.

	Monday, 18.--President Young visited Brother R. Potter at Newbury,
and returned on Tuesday to Kirtland.

	About this time we had arrived near Columbus, where the roads were so
bad, Elder Rigdon's health so poor, and the time so fast approaching when
it was necessary for the committee to be in Washington, that I started in
the stage with Judge Higbee on the most expeditious route to Washington
City, leaving Brothers Rockwell, Rigdon, and Foster, to come on at their
leisure in the carriage.

	Elder Brigham Young and company went to Fairport, where they waited
for a steamboat until Tuesday.

	Elder Parley P. Pratt and company sold their horses and carriage at
Detroit, and went on to New York City by steamboats, the canal and
railway.

	From New York, Elder Parley P. Pratt wrote me on the 22nd, directed
to Commerce, from which I quote the following:

	Excerpt from Parley P. Pratt's Letter to the Prophet. The churches in
these parts are prospering greatly, and are firm in the faith, and
increasing in numbers continually. The Church in New York and Brooklyn now
numbers from one hundred and fifty to two hundred members, and additions
are being made every week. A general conference was held in this city on
Tuesday and Wednesday of this week. Elders present: Orson Pratt, Wilford
Woodruff, Samuel James, Benjamin Winchester, Elders Foster, Layne, Jenks,
Brown, Benedict, and myself. Priests present' Addison Everett, Birge, and
Vanvelver. Many branches of the Church in the region round about were
represented; several hundred members in all, and the numbers still
increasing. Great opportunities are open for preaching, and crowded houses
are the order of the day.

	I have also received letters from Maine and from Michigan, with
joyful accounts of the spread of the work of the Lord. You would now find
churches of the Saints in Philadelphia, in Albany, in Brooklyn, in New
York, in Jersey, in Pennsylvania, on Long Island, and in various other
places all around us. Our New York meetings are now held three times every
Sabbath in Columbia Hall, Grand Street, a few doors east of the Bowery; it
is very central, and one of the best places in the city; it will hold
nearly a thousand people, and is well filled with attentive hearers.
Brother Winchester has a good hall well fitted up in Philadelphia, where
stated meetings are held--several every week, with crowded audiences.

	In short the truth is spreading more rapidly than ever before, in
every direction, far and near. There is a great call for our books. I am
now reprinting the Voice of Warning, The History of the Missouri
Persecution, and my Poems. There is a great call for hymn books, but none
to be had. I wish Sister Smith would add to the old collection such new
ones as is best, and republish them immediately. If means and facilities
are lacking in the west, send it here, and it shall be nicely done for
her; and at least one thousand would immediately sell in these parts
wholesale and retail. The Book of Mormon is not to be had in this part of
the vineyard for love or money; hundreds are wanting in various parts
hereabouts, but there is truly a famine in that respect.

	The conference took into consideration the pressing calls for this
book, and have appointed a committee to raise means for the publication of
the same, and also to publish it if we can obtain leave from you, who hold
the copyright. Any hymn book which Sister Smith or the Church will favor
us with, shall also be published on similar conditions. PARLEY P. PRATT.

	Some time this month the first number of the Times and Seasons, a
monthly religious paper, in pamphlet form, was published at Commerce,
Hancock Count Illinois, by my brother Don Carlos Smith and Ebenezer
Robinson, under the firm name of Robinson & Smith, Publishers.

	Tuesday, 26.--At one in the afternoon, Elder Brigham Young and
company went on board the steamer Columbus, at Fairport, and went on
towards Buffalo.

	Wednesday, 27.--About 1 o'clock this morning the wind arose, when
Elder Brigham Young went on deck, prayed to the Father in the name of
Jesus, when he felt to command the wind and the waves to cease, and permit
them to proceed on their journey in safety. The winds abated, and he gave
glory, honor, and praise to the God who rules all things. Arriving in
Buffalo in the morning, they took the stage for Batavia.

	While on the mountains some distance from Washington, our coachman
stepped into a public house to take his grog, when the horses took fright
and ran down the hill at full speed. I persuade my fellow travelers to be
quiet and retain their seats, but had to hold one woman to prevent her
throwing her infant out of the coach. The passengers were exceedingly
agitated, but I used every persuasion to calm their feelings; and opening
the door, I secured my hold on the side of the coach the best way I could,
and succeeded in placing myself in the coachman's seat, and reining up the
horses, after they had run some too or three miles, and neither coach,
horses, or passengers received any injury. My course was spoken of in the
highest terms of commendation, as being one of the most daring and heroic
deeds, and no language could express the gratitude of the passengers, when
they found themselves safe, and the horses quiet. There were some members
of Congress with us, who proposed naming the incident to that body,
believing they would reward such conduct by some public act; but on
inquiring my name, to mention as the author of their safety, and finding
it to be Joseph Smith the "Mormon Prophet," as they called me, I heard no
more of their praise, gratitude, or reward.

	Thursday, 28.--I arrived in Washington City this morning, and put up
at the corner of Missouri and Third streets.

	This evening, Elder Brigham Young and company (except Elder Kimball,
who stopped at Byron to visit his sister) rode to Rochester in the steam
cars, and from thence rode all night in a horse coach, and arrived at ten
in the morning on Friday, 29th, at Auburn, New York. Elders Taylor and
Turley proceeded on their way to New York.

	The following is a copy of our petition to Congress for redress of
our Missouri grievances:

	THE SAINT'S PETITION TO CONGRESS.

	To the Honorable the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America, in Congress assembled:

	Your petitioners, Joseph Smith, Sidney Rigdon, and Elias Higbee,
would most respectfully represent, that they have been delegated, by their
brethren and fellow-citizens, known as "Latter-day Saints" (commonly
called Mormons), to prepare and present to you a statement of their
wrongs, and a prayer for their relief, which they now have the honor to
submit to the consideration of your Honorable Body.

	In the summer of 1831, a portion of the society above named commenced
a settlement in the county of Jackson, in the state of Missouri. The
individuals making that settlement had emigrated from almost every state
in the Union to the lovely spot in the Far West, with the hope of
improving their condition, of building houses for themselves and
posterity, and of erecting temples, where they and theirs might worship
their Creator according to the dictates of their conscience. Though they
had wandered far from the homes of their childhood, still they had been
taught to believe, that a citizen born in any one state in this great
Republic, might remove to another and enjoy all the rights and immunities
of citizens of the state of his adoption--that wherever waved the American
flag, beneath its stars and stripes an American citizen might look for
protection and justice, for liberty in person and in conscience.

	They bought farms, built houses, and erected churches. Some tilled
the earth, others bought and sold merchandise, and others again toiled as
mechanics. They were industrious and moral, and they prospered, and though
often persecuted and vilified for their difference in religious opinion
from their fellow citizens, they were happy; they saw their society
increasing in numbers, their farms teemed with plenty, and they fondly
looked forward to a future, big with hope. That there was prejudice
against them, they knew; that slanders were propagated against them, they
deplored; yet they felt that these were unjust; and hoped that time, and
uprightness of life, would enable them to outlive them. While the summer
of peace, happiness, and hope shone over the infant settlement of the
Saints, the cloud was gathering, unseen by them, that bore in its bosom
the thunderbolt of destruction.

	On the 20th of July, 1833, around their peaceful village a mob
gathered, to the surprise and terror of the quiet "Mormons"--who, they
knew not; they had broken no law, they had harmed no man, in deed or
thought. Why they were thus threatened, they knew not. Soon a committee
from the mob called upon the leading "Mormons" of the place; they
announced that the store, the printing office, and the shops must be
closed, and that forthwith every "Mormon" must leave the county. The
message was so terrible, so unexpected, that the "Mormons" asked time for
deliberation and consultation, which being refused, the brethren were
severally asked, "Are you willing to abandon your home?" The reply was,
"We will not go;" which determination being reported to the committee of
the mob, one of them replied that he was sorry, for said he, "The work of
destruction must now begin." No sooner said than it was done. The printing
office, a two story brick building, was assailed by the mob and torn down,
and, with its valuable appurtenances, destroyed. They next proceeded to
the store with a like purpose. Its owner in part, Mr. Gilbert, agreed to
close it, and they delayed their purpose.

	They then proceeded to the dwelling of Mr. Partridge, the beloved
Bishop of the Church there, dragged him and his family to the public
square, where, surrounded by hundreds, they partly stripped him of his
clothing, and tarred and feathered him from head to foot. A man by the
name of Allen was at the same time treated in a similar manner. The mob
then dispersed with an agreement to meet again on the next Tuesday, the
above outrages having been committed on Saturday.

	Tuesday came, and with it came the mob, bearing a red flag, in token
of blood. They proceeded to the houses of Isaac Morley, and others of the
leading men, and seized them, telling them to bid their families farewell,
that they would never see them again. They were then driven at the point
of the bayonet to the jail, and there, amid the jeers and insults of the
crowd, they were thrust into prison, to be kept as hostages; in case any
of the mob should be killed, they were to die to pay for it. Here some two
or three of the "Mormons" offered to surrender up their lives, if that
would satisfy the fury of the mob, and purchase peace and security for
their unoffending brethren, their helpless wives and children. The reply
of the mob was, that the "Mormons" must leave the county en masse, or that
every man should be put to death.

	The "Mormons," terrified and defenseless, then entered into an
agreement to leave the county--one half by the first of January, the other
half by the first of April next ensuing. This treaty being made and
ratified, the mob dispersed. Again, for a time, the persecuted "Mormons"
enjoyed a respite from their persecutions; but not long was the repose
permitted them.

	Some time in the month of October, a meeting was held at
Independence, at which it was determined to remove the "Mormons" or die.
Inflammatory speeches were made, and one of the speakers swore he would
remove the "Mormons" from the county if he had to wade up to his neck in
blood.

	Be it remarked that up to this time, the "Mormons" had faithfully
observed the treaty, and were guilty of no offense against the laws of the
land, or of society, but were peaceably following the routine of their
daily duties.

	Shortly after the meeting above referred to, another persecution
commenced; some of the "Mormons" were shot at, others were whipped, their
houses were assailed with brickbats, broken open, and thrown down; their
women and children were insulted; and thus for many weeks, without
offense, without resistance, by night and by day, were they harassed,
insulted, and oppressed.

	There is a point beyond which endurance ceases to be a virtue. The
worm when trampled upon will turn upon its oppressor. A company of about
thirty "Mormons" fell in with twice that number of the mob engaged in the
destruction of "Mormon" property, when a battle ensued, in which one
"Mormon" was killed, and two or three of the mob; acting in concert with
the officer who commanded the mob, was Lilburn W. Boggs,
Lieutenant-Governor of the state of Missouri. When the noise of the battle
was spread abroad, the public mind became much inflamed. The militia
collected in arms from all quarters, and in great numbers, inflamed to
fury. They demanded that the "Mormons" should surrender up all their arms,
and immediately quit the county. Compelled by overpowering numbers, the
"Mormons" submitted. They surrendered up fifty-one guns, which have never
been returned, or paid for.

	The next day, parties of the mob went from house to house,
threatening women and children with death, if they did not immediately
leave their homes. Imagination cannot paint the terror which now pervaded
the "Mormon" community. The weather was intensely cold, and women and
children abandoned their homes and fled in every direction without
sufficient clothing to protect them from the piercing cold. Women gave
birth to children in the woods and on the prairies. One hundred and twenty
women and children, for the space of ten days, with only three or four men
in the company, concealed themselves in the woods in hourly expectation
and fear of massacre, until they finally escaped into Clay county. The
society of "Mormons" after the above disturbances, removed to the county
of Clay, where they were kindly received by the inhabitants, and their
wants administered to by their charity.

	In the meantime the houses of the"Mormons" in the county of Jackson,
amounting to about two hundred, were burned down or otherwise destroyed by
the mob, as well as much of their crops, furniture, and stock.

	The damage done to the property of the "Mormons" by the mob in the
county of Jackson as above related, as near as they can ascertain, would
amount to the sum of one hundred and seventy-five thousand dollars. The
number of "Mormons" thus driven from the county of Jackson amounted to
about twelve hundred souls. For the property thus destroyed they have
never been paid.

	After the expulsion of the "Mormons" from the county of Jackson as
above related, they removed to and settled in the county of Clay. They
there purchased out some of the former inhabitants, and entered at the
land office wild lands offered for sale by the General Government. The
most of them became freeholders, owning each an eighty or more of land.

	The "Mormons" lived peaceably in the county of Clay for about three
years, and all that time increased rapidly in numbers, by emigration, and
also in wealth by their industry. After they had resided in that county
about three years, the citizens not connected with them began to look upon
them with jealousy and alarm. Reports were again put in circulation
against them: public meetings were held in the counties of Clay and
Jackson, at which violent resolutions were passed against the

	Mormons," and rumors of mobs began again to spread alarm among the
"Mormons." At this juncture the "Mormons" desirous of avoiding all
conflict with their fellow-citizens, and anxious to preserve the peace and
harmony of the society around them, as well as their own, deputized a
committee of their leading men to make terms of peace with their
fellow-citizens of Clay county. An interview took place between them and a
committee of citizens, at which it was agreed that the "Mormons" should
leave the county of Clay, and that the citizens of Clay county should buy
their lands.

	These terms were complied with. The "Mormons" removed to and settled
in the county of Caldwell, and the citizens never paid them value for
their lands. Many received nothing at all for their land. The "Mormons,"
by this removal, sacrificed much both of money and feeling, but the
sacrifice was made upon the altar of duty, for the peace of the community.

	Your Memorialists would beg here to give what they believe a just
explanation of the causes of the prejudice and persecution against the

	"Mormons" related above, and which will follow. That there might have
been some unworthy members among them, cannot be denied; but many aver
that as a community they were as moral, as upright, and as observant of
the laws of the land as any body of people in the world. Why then this
prejudice and persecution? An answer they trust will be found in the fact
that they were a body of people distinct from their fellow-citizens, in
religious opinions, in their habits, and in their associations. They were
numerous enough to make the power of their numerical and moral force a
matter of anxiety and dread to the political and religious parties by
which they were surrounded; which arose not from what the "Mormons" had
done, but from the fear of what they might do.

	In addition, the "Mormons" have purchased of the settlers, or of the
Government, or obtained by preemption, the best lands in all those regions
of the state; and at the times of speculation, the cupidity of many was
aroused to possess those lands by driving off the "Mormons," and taking
forcible possession, or constraining them to sell through fear and
coercion, at a price merely nominal.

	After the "Mormons" removed from Clay county, they settled in the
county of Caldwell as aforesaid.

	Your Memorialists do not deem it necessary for their purpose, to
detail the history of the progress, the cares, and anxieties of the
"Mormons," from the time they settled in Caldwell in the year 1836 until
the fall of the year 1838. They would, however, state, that during all
that time they deported themselves as good citizens, obeying the laws of
the land, and the moral and religious duties enjoined by their faith. That
there might have been some faithless among the faithful is possible. They
would not deny that there might have been some who were a scandal to their
brethren; and what society, they would ask, has not some unworthy members?
Where is the sect, where the community, in which there cannot be found
some who trample under foot the laws of God and man? They believe the
"Mormon" community to have as few such as any other association, religious
or political. Within the above period the "Mormons" continued to increase
in wealth and numbers, until in the fall of the year 1838 they numbered
about fifteen thousand souls.

	They purchased of the Government, or of the citizens, or held by
preemption, almost all the lands in the county of Caldwell, and a portion
of the lands in Daviess and Carroll. The county of Caldwell was settled
almost entirely by "Mormons," and "Mormons" were rapidly filling up the
counties of Daviess and Caldwell. When they first commenced settling in
those counties, there were but few settlements made there; the lands were
wild and uncultivated. In the fall of 1838 large farms had been made, well
improved and stocked. Lands had risen in value, and sold for from ten
dollars to twenty-five dollars [per acre], The improvement and settlement
had been such that it was a common remark that the county of Caldwell
would soon be the wealthiest in the state.

	Thus stood their affairs in the fall of 1838, when the storm of
persecution again raged over the heads of the "Mormons," and the fierce
demon of the mob drove them forth houseless and homeless, and penniless,
upon the charities of the world, which to them, thank God! have been like
angels' visits, but not few, or far between. This last persecution began
at an election, which was held in Daviess county on the first Monday of
August, 1838. A "Mormon" went to the polls to vote. One of the mob
standing by, opposed his voting, contending that a "Mormon" had no more
right to vote than a negro; one angry word brought on another, and blows
followed. They are, however, happy to state that the "Mormon" was not the
aggressor, but was on the defensive: others interfered, not one alone, but
many assailed the "Mormon." His brethren, seeing him thus assailed by
numbers, rushed to the rescue; then came others of the mob, until finally
a general row commenced. The "Mormons" were victorious. The next day, a
rumor reached the "Mormons" of Caldwell, that two of their brethren had
been killed in this fight, and a refusal had been made to surrender their
bodies for burial. Not knowing at the time that this rumor was false, they
became much excited, and several of them started for Daviess county, where
they arrived next morning, with a view of giving the brethren, whom they
supposed to have been killed, a decent interment. Among the citizens this
fight produced a great excitement. They held a public meeting and resolved
to drive the "Mormons" from the county. Individuals began also to threaten
the "Mormons" as a body, and swear that they should leave the county in
three days. When the "Mormons" who had gone from Caldwell to Daviess,
aforesaid, arrived there, they found this state of excitement to exist.
They also heard that a large mob was collecting against them, headed by
Adam Black one of the judges of the county court of Daviess county. 30

	Under these circumstances, and with a view to allay the excitement,
they called on Mr. Black, and inquired of him whether the reports they had
heard in relation to him were true. Upon his denying them to be true, they
then requested him to give that denial in writing, which he freely did.
This writing they published with a view of calming the public mind, and
allaying the excitement. Having done this, they rested in quiet for some
time after, hoping that their efforts would produce the desired effect.
Their surprise can, under these circumstances, be easily imagined, when a
short time after, they learned that said Black had gone before Judge King,
and made oath that he was forced to sign the instrument, by armed
"Mormons," and procured a warrant for the arrest of Joseph Smith, Jun.,
and Lyman Wight, which was placed in the hands of the sheriff. It was also
reported that the said individuals had refused to surrender themselves,
and that an armed force was collecting to come and take them.

	Your Memoralists aver that the sheriff had never made any efforts to
serve the writ, and that the said Smith and Wight, so far from making any
resistance, did not know that such a writ had been issued, until they
learned it first by report as above related. In the meantime the rumor had
run over the whole country, that the "Mormons" were compelling individuals
to sign certain instruments in writing, and that they were resisting the
process of the law. The public mind became much inflamed, and the mob
began to collect from all quarters and in large numbers, with pretensions
of assisting the sheriff to serve the process; and here let it be observed
in passing, that Adam Black had sold the improvement and preemption claim
on which he then resided, to the "Mormons," received his pay for the same,
and that through his instrumentality the "Mormons" were driven off, and he
now retains both their money and the improvement.

	As soon as the above reports reached the ears of the said Smith and
Wight, they determined immediately upon the course they ought to pursue,
which was to submit to the laws. They both surrendered themselves up to
Judge King, underwent a trial, and in the absence of all sufficient
testimony they were discharged. They hoped that this voluntary submission
of theirs to the law, and their triumphant vindication of the charge,
would allay the excitement of the community. But not so; the long-desired
opportunity had arrived when the oppression and extermination of the
"Mormons" might be made to assume the form of legal proceeding. The mob
that had assembled for the pretended purpose of assisting the officers in
the execution of process, did not disperse upon the acquittal of Smith and
Wight, but continued embodied with the encampments and forms of a military
force, and committing depredations upon "Mormon" property. The "Mormons"
in this extremity called upon the laws of the land, and the officers of
the law, for protection. After much delay, the militia under Generals
Atchison, Doniphan, and Parks, were sent to their relief. They arrived on
the 13th of September, and encamped between the "Mormons and the mob.

	The above officers made no attempt to disperse the mob, excusing
themselves by saying, "that their own men had sympathies with the mob."
After remaining there for several days, those officers adopted the
following expedient of settling the difficulties--they mustered the mob,
and enrolled them with their own troops, and then disbanded the whole,
with orders to seek their several homes. The officers went home, excepting
Parks, who remained for their protection, with his men.

	The "Mormons" made an agreement with the citizens of Daviess, to buy
out their lands and preemption rights, and appointed a committee to make
the purchase, and to go on buying till they had purchased to the amount of
twenty-five thousand dollars. While these purchases were going on, the
citizens were heard to say, that as soon as they had sold out to the
"Mormons" and received their pay, they would drive the "Mormons" off, and
keep both their lands and the money.

	The mob, when disbanded in Daviess by the generals as aforesaid,
instead of repairing to their homes as commanded, proceeded in a body to
the adjoining county of Carroll, and encamped around Dewitt, a village
built and inhabited by "Mormons;" while thus encamped around Dewitt, they
sent to the county of Jackson, and procured a cannon. They invested the
place so closely, that no person could leave the town in safety; when they
did so, they were fired upon by the mob. The horses of the "Mormons" were
stolen, and their cattle killed. The citizens of Dewitt, amounting to
about seventy families, were in great extremity, and worn out by want and
sickness. In their extremity they made application to Governor Boggs for
protection and relief; but no protection, no relief was granted them. When
reduced to the last extremity, no alternative was left them, but to seek
protection by flight, and the abandonment of their homes. Accordingly, on
the evening of the 11th of October, 1838, they retreated from Dewitt, and
made their way to the counties of Daviess and Caldwell, leaving many of
their effects in the possession of the mob.

	Your Memorialists will not detail the horrors and sufferings of such
a flight, when shared with women and children. They might detail many. One
lady, who had given birth to a child just before the flight commenced,
died on the road and was buried without a coffin. Many others, sick, worn
out, starved, deprived of medical aid, died upon the road. The remnant of
"Mormons" from Dewitt arrived in Daviess and Caldwell, and found a short
relief and supply of their wants from their friends and brethren there.

	After the abandonment of Dewitt, and the flight of the "Mormons" from
Carroll, one Sashiel Woods addressed the mob, advising them to take their
cannon and march to the county of Daviess, and drive the "Mormons" from
that county, and seize upon their lands and other property, saying that
the "Mormons" could get no benefit of the law, as they had recently seen.
They then commenced their march from Carroll to Daviess, carrying with
them the cannon which they had received from Jackson. On their way they
captured two "Mormons," made them ride on the cannon, and taunted them as
they went along, telling them that they were going to drive the "Mormons"
from Daviess to Caldwell, and from Caldwell to hell; and that they should
find no quarters but at the cannon's mouth. The mob at this time was
reported to number about four hundred strong.

	The "Mormons" in these distresses, in pursuance of the laws of
Missouri, made application to Judge King, the circuit judge of that
circuit, for protection, and for the aid of the officers of the law to
protect them. Judge King, as they have been informed, and believe, gave an
order to Major General David R. Atchison to call out the militia to
protect the

	"Mormons" against the fury of the mob. General Atchison thereupon
gave orders to Brigadiers Parks and Doniphan. In pursuance of these orders
issued as aforesaid, on the 18th of October, 1838, General Doniphan
arrived at Far West, a "Mormon" village in the county of Caldwell, with a
small company of militia. After he had been at Far West two days, General
Doniphan disbanded his company, alleging to the "Mormons," as his reason
for so doing, that his company had the same feelings as the mob, and that
he could not rely upon them. In a short time General Parks arrived at Far
West, and also disbanded his company. At this time the mob was marching
from Carroll to Daviess. General Doniphan, while at Far West, directed the
"Mormons" to raise a company to protect themselves, telling them that one
Cornelius Gilliam was raising a mob to destroy their town, and also
advising them to place out guards to watch the motions of the mob. He also
directed them to raise a company and send them to Daviess, to aid their
brethren there against the mob which was marching down upon them from
Carroll. This the "Mormons" did; they mustered a company of about sixty
men, who proceeded to Diahman. When General Parks arrived at Far West as
aforesaid, and learned that General Doniphan had disbanded his men he
expressed great dissatisfaction. The same evening on which General Parks
disbanded his company as aforesaid, he proceeded to Diahman, in order to
learn what the mob were doing there, and if possible to protect the
"Mormons."

	When General Parks had arrived in Daviess, he found that the mob had
commenced its operations there, which was on the 20th of October, 1838.

	They commenced by burning the house of a man [Don Carlos Smith] who
had gone to Tennessee on business, and left his wife at home with two
small children. When the house was burned down, the wife and two small
children were left in the snow, and she had to walk three miles before she
could find a shelter, carrying her two children all that distance, and had
to wade Grand River, which was three feet deep. The mob on the same
evening burned seven other houses, burning and destroying all the property
that they thought proper. The next morning, Colonel Lyman Wight, an
officer in the militia, inquired of General Parks, what was to be done, as
he now saw the course the mob was determined to pursue. General Parks
replied that he (Wight) should take a company of men and give the mob
battle, and that he would be responsible for the act, saying that they
could have no peace with the mob, until they had given them a scourging.

	On the next morning, in obedience to this order, David W. Patten was
despatched with one hundred men under his command to meet the mob as they
were advancing from Carroll, with directions to protect the citizens, and
collect and bring into Far West such of the "Mormons" as were scattered
through the county, and unprotected, and if the mob interfered, he must
fight them. The company under the command of Patten was the same, in part,
that had gone from Far West by the order of General Doniphan to protect
the citizens of Daviess. As Patten went in the direction of the mob, they
fled before him, leaving their cannon, which Patten took possession of.
The mob dispersed. Patten with his men then returned to Daviess county.
Patten in a few days after returned to Far West. It was now supposed that
the difficulties were at an end. But contrary to expectation, on the
evening of the 23rd of October, messengers arrived at Far West and
informed the citizens that a body of armed men had made their appearance
in the south part of the county, and that they were burning houses,
destroying property, and threatening the "Mormon" citizens with death,
unless they left the county the next morning by 10 o'clock, or renounced
their religion.

	About midnight another messenger arrived with news of the like tenor.
Patten collected about sixty men and proceeded to the scene of the
disturbance, to protect if possible the lives and property of the "Mormon"
citizens. On his arrival at the neighborhood where the first disturbance
had commenced, he found that the mob had gone to another neighborhood to
prosecute their acts of plunder and outrage. He marched a short distance
and unexpectedly came upon the encampment of the mob. The guards of the
mob fired upon him and killed one of his men. Patten then charged the mob,
and after a few fires, the mob dispersed and fled, but Patten was killed
and another of his men. After the fight and dispersion of the mob,
Patten's company returned to Far West. The report of the proceedings
created much excitement. The community was made to believe that the
"Mormons were in rebellion against the law; whereas the above facts show
they were an injured people, standing up in the defense of their persons
and their property.

	At this time the governor of the state issued an order to General
Clark to raise several thousand men and march against the "Mormons," and
drive them from the state, or "exterminate them." Major-General Lucas and
Brigadier-General Wilson collected three or four thousand men; and with
this formidable force, commenced their march and arrived at Far West. In
their rear marched General Clark with another formidable force.

	In the meantime the "Mormons" had not heard of these immense
preparations, and so far from expecting an armed force under the orders of
the state to war against them, were daily expecting a force from the
governor to protect their lives and their property from the mob.

	When this formidable array first made its appearance, intent upon
peace, the "Mormons sent a white flag several miles to meet them, to
ascertain the reason why an armed force was marching against them, and
what we might expect at their hands. They gave us no satisfaction, but
continued marching towards Far West. Immediately on their arrival, a man
came bearing a white flag from their camp. He was interrogated about his
business; he answered the interrogations, saying they wanted three persons
out of Far West, before they massacred the rest. Those persons refused to
go, and he returned back to the camp. He was closely followed by General
Doniphan and his whole brigade marching to the city of Far West in line of
battle. The citizens also of Far West formed a line of battle in full
front of Doniphan's army: upon this Doniphan ordered a halt, and then a
retreat. Night closed upon both parties without any collision.

	On the next day, towards evening, the "Mormons" were officially
informed that the governor of the state had sent this immense force
against them to massacre them, or drive them from the state. As soon as
the "Mormons" learned that this order had the sanction of the governor of
the state, they determined to make no resistance; to submit themselves to
the authorities of the state, how tyrannical and unjust soever the
exercise of that authority might be.

	The commanders of the Missouri militia before Far West sent a
messenger into the town, requesting an interview in their camp with five
of the principal citizens among the "Mormons," pledging their faith for
their safe return on the following morning at eight o'clock. Invited, as
they supposed, to propose and receive terms of peace, and under the pledge
of a safe conduct, Lyman Wight, George W. Robinson, Joseph Smith, Jun.,
Parley P. Pratt, and Sidney Rigdon, went towards the camp of the militia.
Before they arrived at the camp, they were surrounded by the whole army;
and by order of General Lucas put under guard, and marched to the camp,
and were told that they were prisoners of war.





	A court martial was held that night, and they, without being heard,
and in the absence of all proof, were condemned to be shot next morning.

	The execution of this bloody order, was prevented by the manly
protest of General Doniphan. He denounced the act as cold blooded murder,
and withdrew his brigade. This noble stand taken by General Doniphan,
prevented the murder of the prisoners. It is here worthy of note, that
seventeen preachers of the gospel were on this court martial, and were in
favor of the sentence.

	The next morning the prisoners were marched under a strong guard to
Independence, in Jackson county, and after being detained there for a
week, they were marched to Richmond, where General Clark then was with his
troops. Here a court of inquiry was held before Judge King; this continued
from the 11th until the 28th of November; while the five prisoners were
kept in chains, and about fifty other "Mormons," taken at Far West, were
penned up in an open, unfinished court house. In this mock court of
inquiry the defendants were prevented from giving any testimony on their
part, by an armed force at the court house; they were advised by their
lawyers not to bring any [witnesses], as they would be in danger of their
lives, or be driven out of the county; so there was no testimony examined
only against them.

	In this inquiry a great many questions were asked relative to
religious opinions. The conclusion of the court of inquiry was to send
the prisoners to jail upon a charge of treason.

	They do not deem it necessary to detail their sufferings while in
prison, the horrors of a prison for four long months, in darkness, in
want, alone, and during the cold of winter, can better be conceived than
expressed. In the following April the prisoners were sent to the county of
Daviess for trial: they were then indicted for treason, and a change of
venue was taken to Boone county. The prisoners were sent to the county of
Boone, and while on their way made their escape, and fled to the state of
Illinois.

	That they were suffered to escape admits of no doubt. The truth is,
the state of Missouri had become ashamed of their proceedings against the
"Mormons," and as the best means of getting out of the scrape, gave the
prisoners an opportunity to escape. In proof of this, the prisoners have
ever since been living publicly in the state of Illinois, and the
executive of Missouri has made no demand upon the executive of Illinois.
Can it be supposed that the people of Missouri would thus tamely submit to
the commission of treason by a portion of their citizens, and make no
effort to punish the guilty, when they were thus publicly living in an
adjoining state? Is not this passiveness evidenced They knew the "Mormons"
were innocent, and the citizens of Missouri wrong?

	But to return to the operations of General Lucas before Far West: We
need only say that the exterminating order of Governor Boggs was carried
into full effect. After the above-named individuals were taken prisoners,
all the "Mormons" in Far West, about five hundred in number, surrendered
up their arms to the militia without any resistance. The "Mormons" now
fled in every direction--women and children, through the dead of winter,
marked their footsteps with blood, as they fled from the state of
Missouri.

	The orders of the governor were, that they should be driven from the
state or destroyed. About fifteen thousand souls, between the sacking of
Far West and spring, abandoned their homes, their property, their all,
hurried by the terrors of their armed pursuers, in want of every necessary
of life, with bleeding hearts sought refuge in the state of Illinois,
where they now reside.

	We cannot trespass upon your time by the relation of cases of
individual suffering; they would fill a volume. We forbear for our regard
to humanity, to detail the particulars of the conduct of the Missouri
militia. We could relate instances of house-burnings, destruction of
property, robbings, rapes, and murder, that would shame humanity. One
instance as a sample of many scenes which they enacted: Two hundred of the
militia came suddenly upon some "Mormon" families emigrating to the state,
and then encamped at Haun's mill in Caldwell county. The "Mormon" men and
children took refuge in an old log house which had been used as a
blacksmith's shop. On seeing the militia approach, the "Mormons" cried for
quarters, but in vain; they were instantly fired upon; eighteen fell dead;
and their murderers, putting the muzzle of their guns between the logs,
fired indiscriminately upon children, upon the dead and dying. One little
boy, whose father (Warren Smith) had just been shot dead, cried piteously
to the militia to spare his life. The reply was, "Kill him, kill him (with
an oath), he is a son of a damned Mormon." At this they shot his head all
open, and left him dead by the side of his father. About the same time an
old man by the name of McBride, a soldier of the Revolution, came up to
them and begged his life; but they hewed him to pieces with an old corn
cutter. They then loaded themselves with plunder and departed.

	Your petitioners have thus given a brief outline of the history of
the

	"Mormon" persecutions in Missouri--all which they can prove to be
true, if an opportunity be given them. It will be seen from this their
brief statement, that neither the "Mormons" as a body, nor individuals of
that body, have been guilty of any offense against the laws of Missouri,
or of the United States; but their only offense has been their religious
opinion.

	The above statement will also show, that the "Mormons" on all
occasions submitted to the law of the land, and yielded to its authority
in every extremity, and at every hazard, at the risk of life and property.
The above statement will illustrate another truth; that wherever the
"Mormons" made any resistance to the mob, it was in self defense; and for
these acts of self defense they always had the authority and sanction of
the officers of the law for so doing. Yet they, to the number of about
fifteen thousand souls, have been driven from their homes in Missouri.
Their property, to the amount of two millions of dollars, has been taken
from them, or destroyed. Some of them have been murdered, beaten, bruised,
or lamed and have all been driven forth, wandering over the world without
homes, without property.

	But the loss of property does not comprise half their sufferings.
They were human beings, possessed of human feelings and human sympathies.
Their agony of soul was the bitterest drop in the cup of their sorrows.

	For these wrongs, the "Mormons" ought to have some redress; yet how
and where shall they seek and obtain it? Your constitution guarantees to
every citizen, even the humblest, the enjoyment of life, liberty, and
property. It promises to all, religious freedom, the right to all to
worship God beneath their own vine and fig tree, according to the dictates
of their conscience. It guarantees to all the citizens of the several
states the right to become citizens of any one of the states, and to enjoy
all the rights and immunities of the citizens of the state of his
adoption. Yet of all these rights have the "Mormons" been deprived. They
have, without a cause, without a trial, been deprived of life, liberty and
property. They have been persecuted for their religious opinions. They
have been driven from the state of Missouri, at the point of the bayonet,
and prevented from enjoying and exercising the rights of citizens of the
state of Missouri. It is the theory of our laws, that for the protection
of every legal right, there is provided a legal remedy. What, then, we
would respectfully ask, is the remedy of the "Mormons?" Shall they apply
to the legislature of the state of Missouri for redress? They have done
so. They have petitioned, and these petitions have been treated with
silence and contempt. Shall they apply to the federal courts? They were,
at the time of the injury, citizens of the state of Missouri. Shall they
apply to the court of the state of Missouri? Whom shall they sue? The
order for their destruction, then extermination, was granted by the
executive of the state of Missouri. Is not this a plea of justification
for the loss of individuals, done in pursuance of that order? If not,
before whom shall the "Mormons" institute a trial? Shall they summon a
jury of the individuals who composed the mob? An appeal to them were in
vain. They dare not go to Missouri to institute a suit; their lives would
be in danger.

	For ourselves we see no redress, unless it is awarded by the Congress
of the United States. And here we make our appeal as American Citizens, as
Christians, and as Men--believing that the high sense of justice which
exists in your honorable body, will not allow such oppression to be
practiced upon any portion of the citizens of this vast republic with
impunity; but that some measures which your wisdom may dictate, may be
taken, so that the great body of people who have been thus abused, may
have redress for the wrongs which they have suffered. And to your decision
they look with confidence; hoping it may be such as shall tend to dry up
the tear of the widow and orphan, and again place in situations of peace,
those who have been driven from their homes, and have had to wade through
scenes of sorrow and distress.

	And your Memoralists, as in duty bound, will ever pray.


                            	Chapter III. 
        THE PROPHET'S EFFORTS AT WASHINGTON TO OBTAIN REDRESS OF 
        GRIEVANCES FOR THE SAINTS--AFFIDAVITS ON MISSOURI AFFAIRS.

	Saturday, November 30, 1839.--Elders Young and George A. Smith went
to Brother Isaac Haight's at Moravia.

	Sunday, December 1, 1839.--The High Council at Nauvoo met at Oliver
Granger's and voted that Hyrum Smith, George W. Harris, and Oliver
Granger, be a committee to send a petition to the legislature to define
new boundary lines of the city of Nauvoo, and also of Commerce, and do all
other needful acts relative to those cities; that Hyrum Smith furnish the
maps and plats for the alteration, and that Seymour Brunson circulate the
petition for signatures.

	Voted that Bishop Edward Partridge publish a piece in the Times and
Seasons, informing the brethren in the west, that it is improper to remove
from the west for the purpose of locating in Kirtland, Ohio, and that
those who do thus remove, will be disfellowshiped by the council.

	The Prophet's Letter to Hyrum Smith--Reporting State of Affairs at
Washington. WASHINGTON CITY, CORNER MISSOURI AND 3RD STREETS. December
5th, 1829. Dear Brother Hyrum, President, and to the Honorable High
Council of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints--to whom be
fellowship, love, and the peace of Almighty God extended, and the prayer
of faith forever and ever. Amen.

	Your fellow laborers, Joseph Smith, Jun., Elias Higbee, and agents as
well as the servants that are sent by you, to perform one of the most
arduous and responsible duties, and also to labor in the most honorable
cause that ever graced the pages of human existence, respectfully show by
these lines, that we have taken up our cross thus far, and that we arrived
in this city on the morning of the 28th November, and spent the most of
that day in looking up a boarding house, which we succeeded in finding. We
found as cheap boarding as can be had in this city.

	On Friday morning, 29th, we proceeded to the house of the President.
We found a very large and splendid palace, surrounded with a splendid
enclosure, decorated with all the fineries and elegancies of this world.
We went to the door and requested to see the President, when we were
immediately introduced into an upper apartment, where we met the
President, and were introduced into his parlor, where we presented him
with our letters of introduction. As soon as he had read one of them, he
looked upon us with a half frown, and said, "What can I do? I can do
nothing for you! If I do anything, I shall come in contact with the whole
state of Missouri."

	But we were not to be intimidated; and demanded a hearing, and
constitutional rights. Before we left him he promised to reconsider what
he had said, and observed that he felt to sympathize with us, on account
of our sufferings.

	We have spent the remainder of our time in hunting up the
Representatives in order to get our case brought before the House; in
giving them letters of introduction, etc., and in getting acquainted. A
meeting of the delegation of the state of Illinois was appointed today, to
consult for bringing our case before Congress. The gentlemen from Illinois
are worthy men, and have treated us with the greatest kindness, and are
ready to do all that is in their power; but you are aware, brethren, that
they with us have all the prejudices, superstition, and bigotry of an
ignorant generation to contend with; nevertheless we believe our case will
be brought before the House, and we will leave the event with God; He is
our Judge, and the Avenger of our wrongs.

	For a general thing there is but little solidity and honorable
deportment among those who are sent here to represent the people; but a
great deal of pomposity and show.

	We left President Rigdon and others on the road, and received a
letter from them this day. They were, at the date of the letter, on the
20th of November, near Washington, in Pennsylvania, expecting to stop a
day or two at his brother's on account of his ill health. He has
occasionally a chill yet, but his illness is not dangerous. We expect him
here soon.

	We have already commenced forming some very honorable acquaintances,
and have thus far been prospered as much as we had anticipated, if not
more. We have had a pleasing interview with Judge Young, who proposed to
furnish us with expense money. We can draw on him for funds to publish our
book, and we want you to raise some more money for us, and deposit it in
the Branch Bank in Quincy, to be drawn to the order of Judge Young. Send
us the amount of your deposit, taking a receipt of the same. You need not
be afraid to do this. We think from the proceeds of the sale of books, we
can make it all straight. Do therefore be punctual, as much depends upon
it. We cannot accomplish the things for which we were sent without some
funds. You very well know, brethren, we were contented to start, trusting
in God, with little or nothing. We have met with but one accident since we
started. The lock of our trunk was broken off, and Brother Lyman Wight's
petition is missing; but we trust there is a copy of it preserved; if
there is, you will please forward it immediately, with the name and
affidavit to it.

	For God's sake, brethren, be wide awake, and arm us with all the
power possible, for now is the time or never. We want you should get all
the influential men you can of that section of country, of Iowa, and of
every other quarter, to write letters to the members of Congress, using
their influence in our behalf, and to keep their minds constantly upon the
subject.

	Please to forward this to our wives. Yours in the bonds of the
Everlasting covenant, Joseph Smith, Jun., Elias Higbee.

	P. S.--Congress has been in session for four days, and the House of
Representatives is not yet organized, in consequence of some seats being
contested in the New Jersey delegation.  They have this day succeeded in
electing John Q. Adams to the chair protem.; but whether they will get
their Speaker and Clerk chosen is yet unknown, as there is a great deal of
wind blown off on the occasion on each day. There is such an itching
disposition to display their oratory on the most trivial occasions, and so
much etiquette, bowing and scraping, twisting and turning, to make a
display of their witticism, that it seems to us rather a display of folly
and show, more than substance and gravity, such as becomes a great nation
like ours. (However there are some exceptions).

	A warm feeling has been manifested in the discussion of the House
today, and it seems as much confusion as though the nation had already
began to be vexed. We came with one of the Missouri members from Wheeling
to this place, who was drunk but once, and that however was most of the
time; there was but one day but what he could navigate, and that day he
was keeled over, so he could eat no dinner. The horses ran away with the
stage; they ran about three miles;

	Brother Joseph climbed out of the stage, got the lines, and stopped
the horses, and also saved the life of a lady and child. He was highly
commended by the whole company for his great exertions and presence of
mind through the whole affair. Elias Higbee jumped out of the stage at a
favorable moment, just before they stopped, with a view to assist in
stopping them, and was but slightly injured. We were not known to the
state company until after our arrival.

	In our interview with the President, he interrogated us wherein we
differed in our religion from the other religions of the day. Brother
Joseph said we differed in mode of baptism, and the gift of the Holy Ghost
by the laying on of hands. We considered that all other considerations
were contained in the gift of the Holy Ghost, and we deemed it unnecessary
to make many words in preaching the Gospel to him. Suffice it to say he
has got our testimony. We watch the post office, but have received no
letters from our sections of the country. Write instantly. Yours with
respect, J. S. Jun., E. H.

	Tuesday, 3.--High Council of Iowa met at Elijah Fordham's and voted
to come up to the law of tithing, so far as circumstances would permit,
for the benefit of the poor, and that Alanson Ripley remove to Iowa; and
he was ordained Bishop by the Presidency of the Council.

	Elder Daniel Avery was instructed to call the Elders together and
organize the Elder's Quorum.

	Saturday, 7.--The President of the High Council of Iowa proposed the
following questions--Have the brethren a right to exact the payment of
debts which were due them from others, and were consecrated to the Bishop
in the state of Missouri? Six counselors spoke. The President decided that
all such debts ought not to be called for, and that persons making such
demands shall be disfellowshiped by the Church; which was approved by the
Council.  Also that all those who sold goods in Missouri, and were calling
for their pay, should be considered as acting in unrighteousness, and
ought to be disfellowshiped;

	as the property of the Saints had been confiscated by Missouri.

	Letter of the Prophet and Elias Higbee to the High Council at
Nauvoo--Preliminary Hearing of Grievances. WASHINGTON CITY, CORNER OF
MISSOURI AND 3RD STREETS. December 7th, 1839. To Seymour Brunson and the
Honorable High Council of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints:
Your humble servants, Joseph Smith, Jun., and Elias Higbee, again address
you for the purpose of informing you of our proceedings here in relation
to our business and prospects of success. We deem it unimportant to say
anything in relation to our journey, arrival, and interview with his
Excellency, the President of these United States; as they were mentioned
in a letter lately addressed to President Hyrum Smith and the High
Council. We mentioned in that letter the appointment of a meeting to be
held by the Illinois delegation, to consult upon the best measures of
getting our business brought before Congress. They met yesterday in one of
the committee rooms of the Capitol. All the delegation were present except
ex-Governor Reynolds--who is now one of the Representatives in
Congress--and on account of whose absence, the meeting was adjourned until
today at eleven o'clock; however the subject was partially introduced, and
Mr. Robinson took a stand against us, so far as concerned our presenting
claims to be liquidated by the United States.

	We took a stand against him, asserting our constitutional rights.
Brother Joseph maintained the ground in argument against him firmly and
respectfully, setting forth the injuries that we have received, and the
appeals that we have made to the judiciary of Missouri, and also the
governor; their refusals from time to time to do us justice; also the
impracticability of doing anything in the judiciary courts of
Missouri--which tribunal Mr. Robinson thought was the only proper place
for our claims; but he finally said it was his first impression on the
subject, not having considered the matter, but would take it into further
consideration.

	Judge Young of the Senate made some remarks in our favor, saying he
would get the opinion of some of the prominent members of the Senate, who
were also lawyers, and would report to us the next meeting. We met this
day according to appointment, and very friendly feelings were manifested
on the occasion. Our business was taken up, and

	Judge Young stated that he had asked the opinion of Judge White of
Tennessee, of Mr. Wright, and several other members whose names we do not
recollect, but were prominent members of the Senate. They all declined
giving an opinion at present, as it was a matter that they had not
considered sufficiently to decide in our favor, which decision was that a
Memorial and Petition be drawn up in a concise manner, (our
Representatives promising so to do), and Judge Young present them to the
Senate, that they might thereby refer it to the proper committee, with all
the accompanying documents, and order the same to be printed.

	We want you to assist us now; and also to forward us your
certificates, that you hold for your lands in Missouri: your claims to
preemption rights, and affidavits to prove that soldiers were quartered on
us and in our houses without our consent, or any special act of law for
that purpose; contrary to the Constitution of the United States. We think
Brother Ripley and others will recollect the circumstances and facts
relative to this matter. You will also recollect the circumstances of
Brother Joseph and others being refused the privilege of habeas corpus by
the authorities of Missouri.

	These facts must be authenticated by affidavits. Let any particular
transaction of the outrages in Missouri that can be sworn to by the
sufferers, or those who were eye-witnesses to the facts, be sent,
specifying the particulars. Have the evidence bona fide to the point.

	The House of Representatives is not organized. Much feeling and
confusion have prevailed in the House for a few days past. The House
succeeded in electing John Q. Adams chairman protem. on the 5th instant.
They have not yet elected their Speaker or Clerk. The Senate can do
nothing of consequence until the House is organized; neither can the
President's message until then be received. We design taking a paper and
forwarding it to you. Your brethren in the bonds of the everlasting
covenant, Joseph Smith, Jun., Elias Higbee.

	Brother Isaac Haight took Elders Young and George A. Smith to Brother
Joseph Murdock's, Hamilton, Madison county, New York, where Elder Young
preached on Sunday, 8th, and spent the week in preaching, and visiting the
brethren. Elder George A. Smith was confined to his room, sick.

	This day, the High Council of Nauvoo issued an Epistle to the Saints
west of Kirtland not to return thither. (See Times and Seasons, page 29).

	Elders Hiram Clark, Alexander Wright, and Samuel Mulliner arrived in
Preston from America. Their licenses were mislaid on their journey, and
they had some difficulty in making themselves known.

	Some time this month, Brother Hyrum Smith wrote a long Epistle "To
the Saints scattered abroad, Greeting," setting forth his sufferings,
etc., in the State of Missouri, and published the same in the Times and
Seasons, on page 20 and onward.

	Sunday, 15.--President Young preached at Brother Gifford's, in
Waterville.

	The High Council at Nauvoo voted that Bishop Knight provide for the
families of Joseph Smith, Jun., Sidney Rigdon, and Orrin Porter Rockwell,
during their absence at Washington.

	Elder James Mullholland, my scribe, having died, it was voted that
debts contracted for building his house be settled. Also approved of
Brothers Annis, Bozier, and Edmunds building a water mill adjoining the
city.

	Monday 16.--President Young returned to Hamilton.

	Wednesday, 18.--Elders Woodruff, John Taylor, and Theodore Turley
sailed from New York for England.

	Friday, 20.--President Young went to Eaton, to see his cousins Fitch,
Salmon, and Phinehas Brigham.

	For particulars of our proceedings while at Washington, see my
letters and Judge Higbee's to friends at Commerce, or Nauvoo, at the place
is now frequently called.

	Saturday, 21.--I arrived in Philadelphia, direct from Washington
City, by the railroad, where I spent several days preaching and visiting
from house to house, among the brethren and others.

	Letter of Hyrum Smith to Parley P. Pratt--On Printing the Book of
Mormon in New York.

	NAUVOO, HANCOCK COUNTY, ILLINOIS, December 22nd, 1839.

	DEAR BROTHER PARLEY:--In consequence of the absence of my brother
Joseph, your letter has come into my hands, to which I intend to reply,
and give such instructions, and advise you respecting the matters and
things of which you write, as I feel led by the Spirit of the Lord [to
give].

	I was truly glad to hear of the prosperity of the churches in and
about the vicinity of New York. Truly these things are pleasing to the
Saints, and I presume to none more so than yourself, who was the
instrument in the hands of God in planting the standard of truth in those
regions, around which so many are now rallying.

	You express a desire to have the Book of Mormon, etc., printed in New
York, etc., etc., and have taken some steps towards accomplishing that
object. As respects this matter I would say, that it is one of great
importance, and should be properly considered. Not only is the city of New
York destitute of this book, but there is truly a famine throughout the
Union, and another large edition is certainly required. But at the same
time I cannot give any encouragement for the publication of the same,
other than at this place, or where it can come out under the immediate
inspection of Joseph and his Counselors, so that no one may be chargeable
with any mistakes that may occur. I want the books we print here should be
a standard to all nations in which they may be printed, and to all tongues
into which the same may be translated.

	Again, as this place is appointed a Stake and a place of gathering
for the Saints, I think that every facility should be rendered it, in
order that the Saints may be able to accomplish the great works which have
to be performed in this generation. I should therefore strongly advise,
yea, urge you and all the Elders of Israel, when they meet with those who
have means, and a disposition to forward this work, to send them to this
place, where they may receive counsel from time to time. If when Brothers
Joseph and Rigdon return, we should deem it prudent to avail ourselves of
the facilities offered in New York for re-printing the Book of Mormon, it
is probable that a delegation will be sent to accomplish that object. In
the meantime you will be at liberty to go to Europe, for thereunto are you
sent.

	The above observations will apply to the book of Doctrine and
Covenants, Hymn Book, etc., which publications I long to see flowing
through the land like a stream, imparting knowledge, intelligence, and joy
to all who shall drink at the stream. As to publishing the Book of Mormon
in Europe and other nations, I should entirely acquiesce to your
proposition. I do not know of any more suitable persons for attending to
that business than the Twelve. If it should be deemed wisdom to have the
same published in England or elsewhere soon, you will be further advised
on the subject, and full powers given you immediately on the return of
Joseph, who is at present in the city of Washington, in company with Elder
Rigdon and Judge Higbee, endeavoring to get the subject of our late
persecutions brought before the councils of the nation.



	The families of the Twelve are generally well, but not altogether so
comfortably situated as I could wish, owing to the poverty of the Church.
I think it would be well for those who have means to spare, to forward the
same to their families.

	My love to all the brethren. I am your affectionate brother in the
bonds of the covenant, HYRUM SMITH.

	Addressed to Elder P. P. Pratt, New York City.

	Monday, 23.--President Young went to Waterville with Brother Gifford.
About this time Brothers Rockwell and Higbee arrived at Philadelphia with
my carriage from Washington, where they had been some time, leaving Elder
Rigdon there sick, and Dr. Robert E. Foster to take care of him.

	Wednesday, 25.--Elders Wright and Mulliner left Preston for Scotland,
and soon commenced preaching and baptizing in Paisley and vicinity.

	President Young went six miles north of Rome [New York] to see
Brother Blakesly; returned on the 27th to Waterville, and on the 28th went
to Hamilton.

	Saturday, 28.--Heber John, son of Willard and Jennetta Richards, died
at Preston, England, aged five months and nine days. He had been sick nine
days with the smallpox, and was buried in Elswick Chapel yard.

	Sunday, 29.--The High Council of Nauvoo voted to print ten thousand
copies of the hymn books, and an edition of the Book of Mormon, under the
inspection of the First Presidency at Nauvoo, so soon as means can be
obtained.

	Monday, 30.--About this time I left Philadelphia with Brother Orson
Pratt, and visited a branch of the Church in Monmouth county, New Jersey,
where I spent several days, and returned to Philadelphia.

	The High Council of Nauvoo voted that a committee be appointed to
transact the business relating to the request of the brethren at
Washington as follows--Alanson Ripley, in Iowa; Seymour Brunson and
Charles C. Rich, at Quincy; Zenas H. Gurley, at Macomb; and that President
Hyrum Smith, and Bishops Edward Partridge and Vinson Knight give the
committee their instructions.

	Wednesday, January 1, 1840.--George A. Smith (who had partially
recovered from his illness) and Elder Brigham Young left Hamilton. The
brethren helped them on their way, and gave them considerable clothing.

	Thursday, 2.--Brother James Gifford brought them to Utica.

	As more positive and official testimony was wanted by the authorities
at Washington, many of the brethren made affidavits concerning their
sufferings in, and expulsion from, Missouri, a few of which I will insert
in my history:

	Affidavit of Simeon Carter on his Sufferings in Missouri.

	I, Simeon Carter, certify that I have been a resident of the state of
Missouri for six years and upwards, and that I have suffered many things
by a lawless mob; both myself and my family have been driven from place to
place, and suffered the loss of much property, and finally were expelled
from the state. I further certify, that I belong to the Church of the
Latter-day Saints, commonly called "Mormons." And I certify that in the
year eighteen hundred and thirty-eight, both I and my people suffered
much, by the people of the state of Missouri. And I further certify, that
in this same year, in the month of November, between the first and sixth,
we were surrounded by a soldiery of the state of

	Missouri, in the city of Far West, in Caldwell county, both myself
and many of my "Mormon" brethren, and were compelled by the soldiery--
which were armed with all the implements of war to shed blood--under a
public declaration for our entire extermination, to sign away our all, our
property, personal and real estate, and to leave the state of Missouri
immediately.

	I certify that 1 had at that time one hundred and sixty-two acres of
land, the same which I held the certificate for. I further certify that I
was obliged to give up my duplicates to help me to a small sum to carry me
out of the state. I further certify not. SIMEON CARTER.

	Territory of Iowa, Lee County.

	Sworn to and subscribed before me, a justice of the peace for said
county, this and day of January, 1840. D. W. KILBOURN, J. P.

	Letter of Hyrum Smith to the Prophet and Judge Higbee. NAUVOO.
HANCOCK COUNTY, ILLINOIS, January 3rd, 1840.

	To President Joseph Smith, Jun., and Judge Higbee : DEAR
BRETHREN:--It is with feelings of no ordinary kind, that I write you at
this time, in answer to the letters with which we were favored. Your
letters were truly interesting, and were read with great interest by the
brethren here, as well as myself.

	We were truly glad to hear of your safe arrival in the city of
Washington, your interview with His Excellency the President, and the
steps you have since taken for the furtherance of the object you have
undertaken to accomplish, and for which you have left the endearments of
home, and the society of your friends. The mission on which you are
engaged is certainly an important one, and one which every Saint of God,
as well as everyone whose breast beats high with those patriotic feelings
which purchased our national freedom, must take a deep interest in. And
although there may be many who do not value your labors--their sectarian
prejudices being greater than their love for truth and the Constitution of
our country; yet there are many who will undoubtedly appreciate your
services, and will feel it a pleasure to assist you all that they possibly
can. Conscious of the righteousness of your cause--having the prayer of
the Saints. (amongst whom are many who have shared with you the trials,
persecutions, and imprisonments which have been heaped upon the Saints in
Missouri), and having the approval of heaven, I would say, go on, dear
brethren, in the name of the Lord; and while you are pleading the cause of
the widow and the fatherless, may

	He who has promised to be a father to the fatherless and a husband to
the widow, bless you in your undertakings, and arm you with sufficient
strength for the herculean task in which you are engaged. Your exertions
will be seconded by the brethren in this region, who are disposed to do
all they possibly can.

	I had just got ready to start for Springfield when I received your
letter. I no sooner read it than I abandoned the idea of going there. I
then made exertion to obtain funds for you in this place; but not being
able to get any, and hearing that there were brethren in Quincy lately
from New York, I started off the following day and succeeded in obtaining
from Brother Herringshaw three hundred dollars, which I deposited with
Messrs. Holmes & Co., merchants in Quincy, subject to the order of Judge
Young. The reason why I deposited it with them was in consequence of the
banks not doing any business and refusing to take deposits, etc. I hope
that we shall be able to raise you some more soon. Brother William Law has
promised to let us have one hundred dollars as soon as he gets a
remittance from the east, which he expects daily.


	We have not been able to get much on the city lots since you left;
not more than enough to pay some wages for surveying, and a few debts.
Brother Lyman Wight returned the subscription paper a few days ago,
stating that he had not collected anything since you left. In consequence
of my health, which has been poor, and the coldness of the weather, I have
not been able to attend to it myself. I hardly think we shall be able to
raise the one thousand dollars for Mr. William White by the time he will
expect it. Elder Granger is yet in Commerce, not being able to move in
consequence of the low stage of water in the Ohio river.

	I received a letter lately from Parley P. Pratt, stating that he was
in the City of New York, and had published another edition of his book,
and wanted permission to print an edition of the Book of Mormon and
Doctrine and Covenants, with a periodical similar to the Times and
Seasons, stating that there were men who had means, that would assist in
these things. He likewise wanted to get the privilege for the Twelve to
print the Book of Mormon in Europe. I wrote in reply, that if there were
any of the brethren disposed to aid, and had means to spare for such
purposes, to send them to this place, so that not only this place might be
benefitted, but that the books might come out under your immediate
inspection. I am afraid some have been induced to tarry and assist Parley
in these undertakings; and had made arrangements with Elder Granger to
assist in liquidating the New York debts.

	I want a letter from you, Brother Joseph, as soon as possible, giving
me all the instructions you think necessary. I feel the burden in your
absence is great. Father expresses a great desire to go to Kirtland, along
with Brother Granger, who has promised to pay his and mother's expenses;
would you think it advisable for them to go or not?

	The High Council met a few days ago, and took your second letter into
consideration, and passed some resolutions on the subject; appointed
committees to get certificates for land, and to get all other information
they could. Some have gone to Quincy, and others to different places. We
shall forward from time to time the information you desire.

	You will receive enclosed in this a number of duplicates for land
from Bishop Partridge and others. The Mississippi is frozen up. The
weather is very cold, and a great quantity of snow is on the ground, and
has been for some time. Your family is in tolerable good health, excepting
one or two having the chills occasionally.

	Bishop Knight desires me to inform you, that Brothers Granger and
Haws have driven into Commerce a large number of hogs. They are now
engaged in slaughtering them. I think there will be a good deal of trade
carried on in this line another year.

	You may expect to hear from us soon again. I sent you a copy of the
deposit I made in Holmes & Co., which I hope you will receive safe. I am
very affectionately, HYRUM SMITH.

	P. S.--We have concluded not to send any duplicates in this letter.
The packages of duplicates will be directed to Judge Higbee, thinking they
will come more safe to his address.

	Friday, 3.--Elders Brigham Young and George A. Smith went from Utica
to Albany, on the railway, and put up at the Railroad House.

	Affidavit of William F. Cahoon--Missouri Wrongs.

	I hereby certify that in the year 1838 I was residing in Daviess
county, Missouri, and while from home I was taken prisoner in Far West by
the militia, and kept under guard for six or eight days, in which time I
was forced to sign a deed of trust, after which I was permitted to return
home to my family in Daviess county, and found them surrounded by an armed
force, with the rest of my neighbors, who were much frightened. The order
from the militia was to leave the county within ten days, in which time my
house was broken open, and many goods taken out by the militia. We were
not permitted to go from place to place without a pass from the general,
and on leaving the county, I received a pass as follows:

	"I permit William F. Cahoon to pass from Daviess to Caldwell county,
and there remain during the winter, and thence to pass out of the state of
Missouri.


	"Signed November 10th, 1838. "REEVES, a Brigadier-General."

	During this time both myself and my family suffered much on account
of cold and hunger because we were not permitted to go outside of the
guard to obtain wood and provision; and according to orders of the
militia, in the spring following, I took my family and left the state with
the loss of much property. WILLIAM F. CAHOON.

	Territory of Iowa, Lee county, subscribed and sworn before D. W.
KILBOURN, J. P.

	Letter of C. Adams to the Prophet--Cause of the Saints before the
Illinois Legislature.

	SPRINGFIELD, 4th January, 1840.

	RESPECTED SIR.--I had the gratification of the receipt of yours of
the 16th of december, which gave me pleasure to learn that your prospects
were, at that early period, in a measure flattering. I also saw yours of
the 19th December to Mr. Weber. We are now consulting and feeling the
pulsations relative to your case being brought before the legislature, now
in session, by a series of resolutions, instructing our senators, and
requesting our representatives to urge relief in your case.

	That will be done, remains yet uncertain; still it is my strongest
impression, it will be found prudent to get the matter before our
legislature, for their action thereon. I am happy to learn that all our
delegation are friendly to your intended application for relief in some
shape; and it strikes me that the views of the President at this period
may be the best, and perhaps the only way that relief could at this time
be obtained; and in that event, be no injury to a future application to be
restored to all your rights, when prejudice shall in a measure have
subsided and the true state of the matter be more readily received, even
by those whose prejudices may have closed the avenues to reason and
justice in a matter identified with the odium so commonly attached to the
sound of "Mormons." This odium will naturally wear off when they have time
to learn that "Mormons" are neither anthropophagi or cannibals.

	Your friends are generally well. I am, etc., C. ADAMS. To Joseph
Smith, Jun.

	Saturday, 4.--The High Council at Montrose voted to utterly discard
the practice of suing brethren at the law, and that such as do it, shall
be disfellowshiped by this branch of the Church; that Abraham O. Smoot
ordain Daniel Avery President of the Elders' Quorum; and that the sixth
instant be devoted to taking affidavits concerning Missouri.

	Elder Young found the brethren in Albany; went to Troy, and
Lansingburg, where he heard Elder Phinehas Richards preach.

	Sunday, 5.--Elder Young preached at Lansingburg, and returned to Troy
and held a meeting with the brethren.

	Monday, 6.--Elder Young returned to Albany.

	Extract from Elder Orson Pratt's Letter to his wife--Reporting
Movements of the Brethren in the Eastern States. January 6th, 1840.

	I am well and hearty. After mailing the last letter to you in
Pennsylvania, I went to Philadelphia on Saturday, the 21st of December.
There I found President Joseph Smith, Jun.; he had just arrived from
Washington City, where he had been about three weeks. Four or five days
after, Judge Higbee, with Porter Rockwell, came to Philadelphia; they are
well. I wrote to Parley P. Pratt to come and see President Smith; he did
so, and probably will go to Washington with him in a few days. I stayed
with Brother Smith, in Philadelphia, about eight days; we then took the
railroad and went some 35 or 40 miles, to a large branch of the Church in
Monmouth county, New Jersey, which numbers ninety members; there I left
him [President Smith] on New Year's day, and came to New York, where I am
at present.

	Elder Benjamin Winchester had, when I left Philadelphia, baptized
forty-five in that city, and several more had given in their names for
baptism, and scores believing. I preached in Chester county, Pennsylvania,
about two weeks, and I think I may safely say there are hundreds
believing. The work is prospering throughout all this region.

	Elders Taylor, Woodruff, and Turley sailed for Liverpool, December
18th, while I was in Pennsylvania. None of the rest of the Twelve have yet
arrived. Parley P. Pratt has another book printed, larger than the Voice
of Warning, entitled "The Millennium and other Poems," and a piece on the
"Eternal Duration of Matter."

	Letter from John B. Weber to the Prophet--On Supplementing the
Latter's Effort to Obtain Redresses from Congress.


	SPRINGFIELD, January 6, 1840.

	GENTLEMEN:--Your letter of the 19th came to hand ten days after date,
immediately after which I called upon many of the prominent members of the
Democratic party, with a view to unite them in their influence in your
behalf; all of whom expressed a willingness to aid in bringing about
justice. But I regret to inform you that but few have exhibited that
energy in the matter which might reasonably be expected from all lovers of
liberty and advocates of equal rights.

	Your energetic friends were first of the opinion that an effort ought
to be made by our legislature to memoralize our representatives in
Congress to use all honorable means to accomplish your desires; but after
holding a consultation it was believed that such a course would create a
party strife here, and consequently operate against you in Congress.
Therefore it was agreed that as many as had friends in Congress should
write to them immediately, desiring their aid in your behalf.

	If convenient you will please write again. Any information respecting
your mission will be thankfully received, and made known to your people
here. Very respectfully yours, JOHN B. WEBER.

	To the Rev. Joseph Smith and his Associates. Affidavit of John M.
Burk--Missouri Outrages.

	I hereby certify that General John Clark and his Aid, on their
arrival at Far West in Caldwell county, Missouri, came to my tavern stand,
and without my leave, pitched their marquees in my yard and did take my
wood and hay to furnish the same, and did bring their horses in also, and
without my leave, took hay for them, and did take possession of my house,
and used it for a council house, and did place a strong guard around it,
so as to hinder any person from going in or out, and I myself was not
permitted to go in and out; for all this I have received no remuneration,
and was not even permitted to pass out of town to water travelers' horses
without a permit. The above took place in the first part of November,
1838.

	I also certify that Caleb Baldwin, Lyman Wight, Hyrum Smith, Joseph
Smith, Jun., and Mr. Alexander McRae, in Clay county, Missouri, did apply
for a writ of habeas corpus and did not get it. JOHN M. BURK.

	Sworn before D. W. Kilbourn, J. P.

	Affidavit of John Lowry--Ditto.

	I certify that I saw General John Clark and his Aid, on their arrival
at Far West, Caldwell county, Missouri, in the yard of John M. Burk, and
gave orders to their waiters to pitch their marquees in his yard, and to
take of his wood for fire.

	I also saw Captain Samuel Bogart, with his men, come near my
dwelling, and did pitch their camp, and took my house logs without my
leave, and did burn them. I also saw him with the horse of Joseph Smith,
Jun., in his possession. JOHN LOWRY.

	Sworn before D. W. Kilbourn, J. P.

	Affidavit of Jedediah Owen--Ditto.

	To whom it may concern--This is to certify, that on the day following
on which the troops arrived at Far West, that two men of said troops came
to my house, broke open my trunk, and took therefrom both money and
clothing, and also a number of papers, among which were deeds and notes,
and also a number of cooking utensils, and in consequence of the cruel and
inhuman treatment which I and others have received from those troops, we
are reduced to a state of almost absolute starvation; and Daniel Avery and
myself were appointed as a committee to go out and beg corn and meal, or
anything we might obtain, that would render assistance or relieve us in
our suffering condition. JEDEDIAH OWEN. Sworn before D. W. Kilbourn, J. P.

	Affidavit of T. Alvord--Ditto.

	I removed my family from the state of Michigan to Clay county,
Missouri, in the year 1835, where I lived in peace with the people, on my
own land, eighteen months or more, when the people began to be excited in
consequence of the emigration of our people to that county. The excitement
became so great that I was obliged to sell my place at half price, and
removed to the county of Caldwell, where I purchased me a farm, and
settled my family, and made a good improvement, and was in a good
situation to support my family, and there lived in peace with the people
until the summer and fall of 1838, when the mob began to rise, and we were
obliged to fly to arms in self defense; but notwithstanding our exertion,
they murdered and massacred many of our people. We applied to the governor
for assistance, and his reply to us was, "If you have got into a scrape
with the mob, you must fight it out yourselves, for I cannot help you."
The mob still increased, until I was obliged to remove my family to Far
West, and there remained, surrounded with mobs of murderers, until General
Clark arrived with his army, with the governor's exterminating order. Then
we were all taken prisoners; our arms taken away; they then treated with
all the cruelty they were masters of, and took possession of whatever they
pleased, burnt timber, and laid waste town and country.

	I heard General Clark say that he would execute the Governor's order;
"but [said he] notwithstanding, I will vary so much as to give some lenity
for the removal of this people, and you must leave the state immediately,
for you need not expect to raise another crop here." Those who were not
taken to prison, were permitted to return to their homes to make
preparations to leave the state. Finding I had no safety for myself and
family in Missouri, I fled to Illinois for safety. T. ALVORD.

	Sworn to before D. W. Kilbourn, J. P.

	Tuesday, January 7.--Elder Young took stage for Richmond,
Massachusetts. Affidavit of William Hawk--Missouri Affairs. MONTROSE, LEE
COUNTY, IOWA, January 7, 1840.

	I hereby certify, that some time in the month of October, 1838, an
armed force collected in the county of Carroll, near De Witt, and in open
daylight, drove a man by the name of Humphrey out of his house, and set
fire to it, and burnt it to ashes, and then sent an express ordering all
the "Mormons" to leave the place as soon as the next day. The next day
they sent another express ordering them to leave in six hours, or they
would be massacred upon the ground. They also fired their guns at
different persons traveling the road near the town. The "Mormons" were at
length compelled to leave their possessions, and all removed to Caldwell,
consisting of seventy and perhaps one hundred families, many of whom were
in want of the sustenance of life, sick, and some died upon the way.

	About two weeks after this, another armed force invaded Far West,
took my gun, and compelled me to sign away my property, both real and
personal, and leave the state forthwith. WILLIAM HAWK.

	Sworn to before D. W. Kilbourn. J. P.

	Affidavit of Timothy B. Clark--Ditto.

	MONTROSE, LEE COUNTY, IOWA TERRITORY, January 7, 1840.

	This is to certify that I was at work on my farm on the last of
October. 1838, when an armed company under General Lucas, came and took
myself and my three sons prisoners, and threw down my fences, and opened
my gates, and left them open, and left my crops to be destroyed, and while
I was a prisoner, they declared that they had made clean work in
destroying the crops as they passed through the country, and they took
from me two yoke of oxen, and three horses and two wagons, and compelled
me and my sons to drive them loaded with produce of my own farm, to supply
their army.

	I had in possession at the time, four hundred and eighty acres of
land, and rising of a hundred acres improved, with a small orchard and
nursery, the necessary buildings of a farm, etc.; and in consequence of my
imprisonment my fences remained down, and most of my crops were destroyed;
and further this deponent saith not. TIMOTHY B. CLARK.

	Sworn to before D. W. Kilbourn, J. P.

	Affidavit of Urban V. Stewart--Ditto.

	MONTROSE, LEE COUNTY, IOWA TERRITORY, January 7, 1840.

	This is to certify that about the middle of October, I was driven, by
the threats of the Daviess county armed force, to leave my possessions,
consisting of preemption right to a quarter section of land with thirty
acres under improvement, and a good house. I went to Di-Ahman and remained
until about the 1st of November, when I was driven from there by an armed
force under General Wilson. I then went to Far West. While at Ondi-Ahman
the armed force took from me one cow and calf, and a yoke of oxen, one
horse and five sheep; they also took from me fifteen hogs. While at Far
West, they took two cows belonging to me, and I saw the soldiery killing
the live stock of the inhabitants without leave or remuneration, and
burning building timbers, fences, etc. Urban V. Stewart.

	Sworn to before D. W. Kilbourn, J. P. Affidavit of John Smith--Ditto.

	LEE COUNTY, IOWA TERRITORY.

	This day personally appeared before me, D. W. Kilbourn, an acting
Justice of the Peace in and for said county, John Smith, and after having
been duly sworn, desposeth and saith, "That in the months of October and
November, 1838, I resided in the town of Adam-ondi-Ahman. Daviess county,
Missouri, and whilst being peaceably engaged in the ordinary vocations of
life, that in the early part of November my house was entered by a body of
armed men painted after the manner or customs of the Indians of North
America, and proceeded to search my house for fire arms, stating that they
understood the Mormons knew how to hide their guns, and in their search of
a bed in which lay an aged, sick female, they threw [her] to and fro in a
very rough manner, without regard to humanity or decency. Finding no arms,
they went off without further violence.

	"Shortly after this above described outrage, there was a number of
armed men, say about twenty, rode into my yard and inquired for horses
which they said they had lost, and stated, under confirmation of an oath,
that they would have the heads of twenty "Mormons," if they did not find
their horses. These last were painted in like manner as the first. These
transactions took place when the citizens of the village and its vicinity
were engaged in a peaceable manner in the ordinary pursuits of life."

	This deponent further saith, "That the mob took possession of a store
of dry goods belonging to the Church of Latter-day Saints, over which they
placed a guard. I went into the store to get some articles to distribute
to the suffering poor, and the officer who had the charge of the store
ordered me out peremptorily, stating it was too cold to wait on me, that I
must come the next morning; and returning the next morning, I found the
store almost entirely stripped of its contents.

	Thereupon we as a Church were ordered to depart the county and state,
under the pains and penalty of death or a total extermination of our
society. Having no alternative, (having my wagon stolen), I was compelled
to abandon my property, except a few movables which I got off with in the
best way that I could, and on receiving a permit or pass which is hereto
appended. I then proceeded to depart the state.

	"I permit John Smith to remove from Daviess to Caldwell county, there
remain during the winter, or remove out of the state unmolested.

	"Daviess county, November 9th, 1838. "R. Wilson, Brigadier-General.
By F. G. Cochnu.'

	I accordingly left the state in the month of February following in a
destitute condition." JOHN SMITH.

	Sworn to before D. W. Kilbourn, J. P.

	Affidavit of Samuel Smith--Ditto.

	MONTROSE, LEE COUNTY, IOWA, January 7, 1840.

	I do hereby certify, that I, Samuel Smith, made an improvement and
obtained a preemption right upon one hundred and sixty acres of land in
Daviess county, Missouri, in 1837. On the first of November, 1838, I was
compelled to leave the county, by order of General Wilson, in ten days.
They took without my consent, two horses, which have never been returned,
nor remunerated for; also destroyed my crop of corn, drove off four head
of cattle. SAMUEL SMITH.

	Sworn to before D. W. Kilbourn, J. P.

	Affidavit of Daniel Avery--Ditto.

	LEE COUNTY, IOWA TERRITORY, March 5th, 1840.

	I, Daniel Avery, do hereby certify that the following scenes
transpired in the state of Missouri to my personal knowledge--First, in
the year 1838, some time in the fall, I was called on by the martial law
of the state of Missouri, to aid and assist to rescue women and children
from the hands of a mob, from the waters of Grand river, whose husbands
and fathers had been driven off. We found the house invested by the mob,
some of whom were in the house threatening the lives of the women and
children, if they did not leave their property and effects immediately and
follow their husbands and fathers. One family lost a child while in this
situation, for the want of care; the women being compelled, by these
monsters, to provide and cook them food. This company of the mob was
commanded by James Weldin.

	I also saw about seventy families driven from De Witt by a mob
commanded by Sashiel Wood. I helped to bury one woman the first night, who
had been confined in childbed a night or two before, and could not endure
the sufferings.

	The next scene I saw I was peaceably traveling the road; a man by the
name of Patrick O'Banion was shot dead at my feet. We advanced a little
further, when two men were killed and several wounded. I afterwards
learned that this gang of mobbers was commanded by Samuel Bogart.

	In consequence of being pursued out of the state, by this lawless
mob, I was not an eye witness to the many thousand wicked acts committed
by the Governor's exterminating militia. DANIEL AVERY.

	Sworn to before D. W. Kilbourn, J. P.

	Wednesday, March 11 .

	Affidavit of James Powell--Ditto.

	ILLINOIS, ADAMS COUNTY, March 11, 1840.

	I, James Powell, do certify, that I was a citizen of the state of
Missouri in 1838. I solemnly declare that while I was peaceably traveling
to one of my nearest neighbors, I was assaulted by a company of men, to
the number of five--Autherston Wrathey, John Gardner, Philomen Ellis,
Jesse Clark, and Ariel Sanders. First they threw a stone and hit me
between the shoulders, which very much disabled me; they then shot at me,
but did not hit me. One of them then struck me with his gun, and broke my
skull about six inches--a part of my brain ran out. I have had fourteen
pieces of bone taken out of my skull. My system is so reduced that I have
not done a day's work since.

	I know no reason why they should have done [this act], as I did not
belong to the Mormon Church, neither had I ever heard one preach. In this
situation I was forced to leave the state forthwith. I was carried three
days without having my head dressed. When I arrived at Huntsville, Doctor
Head offered me assistance. I refer to him for further testimony. JAMES
POWELL.

	Attest, John Smith.

	We certify that the foregoing affidavit of James Powell's is true and
correct, as we stood by and saw it with our eyes. We also heard them say
they would kill the Mormons, if they did not clear out. We carried the
wounded man in our wagon, till he was out of reach of the mob. PETER
WIMMER, SUSAN WIMMER, ELLEN WIMMER.

	Sworn to before William Oglesby, J. P.

	Affidavit of John Smith--Ditto.

	ILLINOIS, COLUMBUS, ADAMS COUNTY, March 11, 1840.

	I, John Smith, certify that I was a resident in the state of Missouri
in 1838, when I was driven from my house, and a preemption right, and
forbid to stay in the state, [the mob] threatening me if I did not go
forthwith. I took my family and pursued my journey one hundred miles. In
consequence of cold, snow, water and ice at the inclement season in which
I was driven, I fell sick, and for four weeks I was unable to travel;
during which time I was threatened daily; yet I was so sick it was
considered by many that I could not live, and was compelled to start when
I was not able to sit up through the day. I landed in Illinois; the long
and fatiguing journey, lying out in the cold, open air, proved too much
for my companion; it threw her into a violent fever, with which she died.
Many others in the company took sick and died with the same hard fare.
JOHN SMITH.

	Sworn to before William Oglesby, J. P.

	Affidavit of Smith Humphrey--Ditto.

	ILLINOIS, ADAMS COUNTY, March 16, 1840.

	I, Smith Humphrey, certify that I was a citizen of Missouri in
eighteen hundred and thirty-eight; and some time in the month of October,
of the same year, I was fallen upon by a mob commanded by Hyrum Standley.
He took my goods out of my house; and said Standley set fire to my house,
and burnt it before my eyes, and ordered me to leave the place forthwith.
I removed from De Witt to Caldwell county, where I was again assailed by
Governor Bogg's exterminating militia. They took me prisoner, and robbed
my wagon of four hundred dollars in cash, and one thousand dollars' worth
of goods, and drove me out of the state. SMITH HUMPHREY.

	Sworn to before C. M. Woods, Clerk of Circuit Court.

	Affidavit of Henry Root--Ditto. QUINCY, ILLINOIS, 16th March, 1840.

	This is to certify that I, Henry Root, am, and was a citizen of De

	Witt, Carroll county, Missouri, at the time of the persecutions
(known by the name of the "Mormon War") commenced and terminated between
the citizens of said state of Missouri and the Mormons; that in the fall
of 1838, in the month of September, a mob (under no regular authority)
headed by William W. Austin, Sen., consisting of from one hundred to one
hundred and fifty men, came into De Witt and ordered the Mormons to leave
that place within ten days from that time; that if they did not leave,
they would be driven from there by force.

	The Mormons did not leave; the appointed time came, and the mob came,
armed and equipped for war. The Mormon citizens petitioned to the governor
of the state, but no relief came. They sent to the general of the brigade
[in that locality], who ordered the militia to repair to De Witt to
disperse the mob. On the arrival of the militia, Brigadier-General Parks
told me the Mormons had better leave their property and go off, as his men
were prejudiced against them, and he could do them no good, nor relieve
them. With that the Mormons left. HENRY ROOT.

	Sworn to before C. M. Woods, Clerk of Circuit Court, Adams county,
Illinois.



	Affidavit of Joseph Clark--Ditto. QUINCY, ILLINOIS, March 16, 1840.

	I, Joseph Clark, certify that I was a citizen of the state of
Missouri in 1838; and when peaceably traveling the highway, I was shot at
twice by Governor Boggs' exterminating militia, commanded by Major-General
John B. Clark. JOSEPH CLARK.

	Sworn to before C. M. Woods, Clerk of Circuit Court, Adams County
Illinois.


	Affidavit of Thomas D. Casper--Ditto.

	QUINCY, ILLINOIS, March 16th, 1840.

	This is to certify that I, Thomas D. Casper, was a resident of the
state of Missouri in the year 1838. I was not a member of the Church of
Mormons or Latter-day Saints; but witnessed the following acts of
distress. As I was on business, I inquired for Perry Moppin, and learned
that he, with Samuel Snowden, Esq., had gone after Mr. Wilson, a Mormon,
and had threatened and sworn to take his life if he did not tell his name;
and they swore they had the tool to take his life if he had not told them
his name.

	Further they agreed that the Mormons should leave the country of
Missouri except they would deny the faith, or their religion. And I

	heard Anthony McCustian say that he would head a mob in any case, to
prevent the lawyers from attending to any case of their (the Mormons')
grievances; and he was a postmaster. And I saw two men that said they had
been at Haun's mill at the murder; and one by the name of White, and the
other Moppin stated that he had slain three Mormons. And I, Thomas D.
Casper, witnessed other things too tedious to mention; and solemnly swear,
before God and men, that what is here written is a true statement of facts
relative to the suffering of the Mormons in the state of Missouri. THOMAS
D. CASPER.

	Affidavit of Jesse W. Johnston--Ditto.

	QUINCY, ILLINOIS, March 16, 1840.

	I, Jesse W. Johnston, certify that the following circumstances took
place in the State of Missouri, while I was a resident of that state, viz:
I was taken prisoner by Governor Boggs' exterminating militia. I saw one
man killed belonging to the Mormon Church, and was forced by them to take
corn out of the fields of the Mormon Church without leave. This was in the
fall of 1838. JESSE W. JOHNSTON.

	Sworn to before C. M. Woods, Clerk of the Circuit Court, Adams
County, Illinois.

	Affidavit of Owen Cole--Ditto.

	QUINCY, ILLINOIS, March 17, 1840.

	This is to certify that I, Owen Cole, was a resident of Caldwell
county, state of Missouri, and while residing at my dwelling house, the
militia under Governor Boggs, and by his orders, plundered my house, and
shot me through my thigh. My damage sustained by the militia, by being
driven from the state, besides my wound, was five hundred dollars. The
militia men were quartered on the lands of the people called Mormons,
contrary to the laws and Constitution of the state. I hereby certify this
to be a true statement. OWEN COLE.

	Sworn to before C. M. Woods, Clerk Circuit Court.

	Affidavit of Ezekiel Maginn--Ditto.

	QUINCY, ILLINOIS, March 17, 1840.

	I, Ezekiel Maginn, certify that I was a citizen of the state of
Missouri in the year 1838, and was an eye witness to the following
facts--First, I saw the militia, called for by Governor Boggs'
exterminating order, enter the house of Lyman Wight, and take from it a
bed and bedding, pillows, and dishes, personally known to me to be his
property. EZEKIEL MAGINN.

	Sworn to before C. M. Woods, Clerk Circuit Court, Adams County.

	Affidavit of Addison Green--Ditto.

	QUINCY, March 17, 1840.

	I, Addison Green, do certify that in the month of October, one
thousand eight hundred and thirty-eight, when I was peaceably walking the
highroad in Ray county, state of Missouri, I was molested and taken
prisoner by ten armed men, who took from me one double-barrel fowling
piece and equipage, threatening to blow out my brains and swore that if I
was a Mormon they would hang me without further ceremony. They had
previously been to my lodging and taken my horse, saddle, and bridle. All
was then taken into the woods about one mile to Bogart's camp.

	I was kept a prisoner until the next morning, when I was let go; but
have not obtained any part of my property, which was worth about one
hundred and fifty dollars. A. GREEN.

	Sworn to before John H. Holton, notary public.

	Affidavit of John P. Greene--Ditto.

	I, John P. Greene, was in company with several of my neighbors
walking the road in peace, when one of our company, a young man, by name
of O'Banion, was shot down at my side, being shot by a company of mobbers;
and soon after this we were fired upon again, and two more were killed and
several others wounded. This was about the 25th day of October, one
thousand eight hundred and thirty-eight, in the state of Missouri.  And I
do hereby certify the above to be true according to the best of my
knowledge. JOHN P. GREENE

	Sworn to before John H. Holton, notary public.

	Affidavit of Asahel A. Lathrop--Ditto. This is to certify that I,
Asahel A. Lathrop, was a citizen of the state of Missouri, at the time the
difficulty originated between the people called Mormons and the [other]
inhabitants of the aforesaid state, and herein give a statement of the
transactions that came under my observation, according to the best of my
recollection.

	I settled in Missouri in the summer of 1838, in Caldwell county,
where I purchased land and erected buildings. The said land I now have a
deed of; and in the fall I purchased a claim on what is called the East
Fork of Grand River, together with a large stock of cattle and horses,
sheep and hogs; it being some sixty miles from the aforesaid county where
I first located; and moved on to the latter place, supposing that I was at
peace with all men; but I found by sad experience that I was surrounded by
enemies; for in the fall of 1838, whilst at home with my family, I was
notified by a man by the name of James Welden, that the people of
Livingston county, had met at the house of one Doctor William P. Thompson,
then living in the attached part of said county, for the purpose of
entering into measures respecting the people called Mormons; and the same
Welden was a member of the same, and also the aforesaid William P.
Thompson was a justice of the peace; and they all jointly agreed to drive
every Mormon from the state; and notified me that I must leave
immediately, or I would be in danger of losing my life.

	All this time some of my family were sick; but after listening to the
entreaties of my wife to flee for safety, I committed them into the hands
of God and left them, it being on Monday morning; and in a short time
after I left, there came some ten or fifteen men to my house, and took
possession of the same, and compelled my wife to cook for them, and also
made free to take such things as they saw fit; and whilst in this
situation, my child died, which I have no reason to doubt was for the want
of care; which, owing to the abuse she received, and being deprived of
rendering that care she would, had she been otherwise situated. My boy was
buried by the mob, my wife not being able to pay the last respects to her
child.

	I went from my home into Daviess county and applied to Austin A. King
and General Atchison for advice, as they were acting officers in the state
of Missouri. There were men called out to go and liberate my family, which
I had been absent from some ten or fifteen days; and on my return I found
the remainder of my family confined to their beds, not being able the one
to assist the other, and my house guarded by an armed force.

	I was compelled to remove my family in this situation, on a bed to a
place of safety. This, together with all the trouble, and for the want of
care, was the cause of the death of the residue of my family, as I have no
doubt; which consisted of a wife and two more children; as they died a few
days after their arrival at my friend's. Such was my situation, that I was
obliged to assist in making their coffins.

	I will give the names of some of the men that have driven me from my
house and abused my family; those that I found at my house on my return
were Samuel Law, Calvin Hatfield, Stanley Hatfield, Andy Hatfield; and
those that were leading men were James Welden, Doctor William P. Thompson,
a justice of the peace, and William Cochran, and many others, the names I
do not recollect.

	I have also seen men abused in various ways; and that whilst they
were considered prisoners; such as the mob cocking their guns and swearing
that they would shoot, with their guns to their face and the officers of
the militia, so called, standing by without uttering and in these councils
they have said if a Missourian should kill a Mormon he should draw a
pension, same as a soldier of the Revolution.

	I was also compelled to give up my gun, and the terms were, I was to
leave the aforesaid state of Missouri, or be exterminated. My property is
yet remaining in said state, whilst I am deprived of the control of the
same.

	Written this 17th day of March, 1840. ASAHEL A. LATHROP.

	Sworn to before D. W. Kilburn, J. P., Lee county, Iowa Territory.

	Affidavit of Burr Riggs. I, Burr Riggs, of the town of Quincy, and
state of Illinois, do hereby certify that in the year 1836, when moving to
the state of Missouri, with my family and others, we were met in Ray
county, in said state, by a mob of one hundred and fourteen armed men, who
commanded us not to proceed any further, but to return, or they would take
our lives; and the leader stepped forward at the same time, and cocked his
piece. We turned round with our team; and the mob followed us about six
miles and left us.

	Some time after this I moved to Caldwell county, in said state, and
purchased about two hundred acres of land, and a village lot, on which I
erected a dwelling house, staked, and commenced improving my land, and
had, at the time I was driven away, about forty acres of corn, vegetables,
etc.; and in the year 1838, in the month of November, was compelled to
leave my house and possessions in consequence of Governor Boggs'
exterminating order, without means sufficient to bear my expense out of
the state.

	Given under my hand at Quincy, Illinois, 17th March, 1840. BURR
RIGGS.

	Sworn to before C. M. Woods, Clerk of the Circuit Court, Adams
county, Illinois.

	Affidavit of Simons P. Curtis. I, Simons P. Curtis, a resident of
Quincy, Adams county, Illinois, certify that in the year 1838, I was a
citizen of Caldwell county, Missouri, residing in the city of Far West.
Also that I went in search of a lost steer; and passing by Captain
Bogart's camp, while he was guarding the city, I saw the hide and feet of
said steer, which I knew to be mine; the flesh of which I suppose they
applied to their own use.

	I also certify that Wiley E. Williams, one of the Governor's aids,
who was gunkeeper, caused me to pay thirty-seven and a half cents to him.
I also paid twenty-five cents to a justice of the peace to qualify me to
testify that the gun was mine. The said Wiley E. Williams is said to be
the one that carried the story to Governor Boggs, which story was the
cause of the exterminating order being issued, as stated by the Governor
in said order. SIMONS P. CURTIS.

	Sworn to before C. M. Woods, Clerk Circuit Court, Adams County,
Illinois.

	Affidavit of Elisha H. Groves. I, Elisha H. Groves, of the town of
Quincy, and state of Illinois, upon oath say, that I was a resident of
Daviess county, in the state of Missouri, and that on the 16th day of
November, in the year of our Lord, 1838, Judge Vinson Smith and others
came to my house and ordered myself and family, Levi Taylor, David Osborn
and others, to leave our possessions which we had bought of Government and
paid our money for the same, saying we must within three days leave the
county or they would take our lives, for there was no law to save us after
that time. In consequence of those proceedings, together with Governor
Boggs' exterminating order, we were compelled to leave the state of
Missouri. Furthermore this deponent saith not.

	Given under my hand at Quincy, the 17th day of March, A. D. 1840.
ELISHA H. GROVES.

	Sworn to before C. M. Woods, Clerk Circuit Court.

	Affidavit of Jacob Foutz. QUINCY, ILLINOIS, March 17, A. D. 1840.

	This is to certify that I was a citizen, resident of Caldwell county,
Missouri, at the time Governor Boggs' exterminating order was issued; and
that I was quartered on by the mob militia, without my leave or consent at
different times, and at one time by William Mann, Hiram Cumstock, and
brother, who professed to be the captain; also Robert White; and that I
was at the murder at Haun's mill, and was wounded; and that I was driven
from the state, to my inconvenience, and deprived of my freedom, as well
as to my loss of at least four hundred dollars. JACOB FOUTZ.

	Sworn to before C. M. Woods, Clerk Circuit Court.

	Affidavit of Frederick G. Williams. I do certify that I was a
resident of Caldwell county, in the State of Missouri, in the year of our
Lord 1838, and owned land to a considerable amount, building lots, etc.,
in the village of Far West; and in consequence of mobocracy, together with
Governor Boggs' exterminating order, was compelled to leave the state
under great sacrifice of real and personal property, which has reduced and
left myself and family in a state of poverty, with a delicate state of
health, in an advanced stage of life. Furthermore this deponent saith not.

	Given under my hand at Quincy, Illinois, March 17, 1840. FREDERICK G.
WILLIAMS.

	Sworn to before C. M. Woods, Clerk Adams county, Illinois.

	Statement of James Sloan. James Sloan made affidavit at Quincy, that
the officers of the militia under the exterminating order of Governor
Boggs in Missouri in 1838, took possession, carried off and destroyed a
store of goods, of several hundred dollars' value, belonging to the people
called "Mormons," in Daviess county; that his life was threatened, his
property taken, and be was obliged to flee the state with his family,
greatly to his disadvantage.

	Affidavit of David Shumaker. QUINCY, ILLINOIS, ADAMS COUNTY, March
18, 1840.

	I, Jacob Shumaker, do certify that I went back to the state of
Missouri about the first of October last, with the calculation to live
with my family, but finding it impossible, as the mob, say to the amount
of twenty or thirty of them, surrounded my house, and whilst they were
quarreling about me, what they should do, and in what way they should
dispose of me, I crept out of the back window and made my escape; and
leaving my family to their most scandalous abuses; my wife and oldest
daughter barely escaping from their unholy designs.

	I was thus a second time obliged to leave the state, or remain at the
risk of my life. The former alternative I chose. My loss sustained by the
above-mentioned abuses was not less than three hundred dollars. A lot of
land containing forty acres, for which I paid four dollars per acre,
situated in Caldwell county, was unjustly and unlawfully taken from me,
and is still retained by some person or persons to me unknown. I hereby
certify that the above is a true statement. JACOB SHUMAKER.

	Sworn to before C. M. Woods.

	Affidavit of Levi Richards. I, Levi Richards, a resident of Quincy,
Adams county Illinois, practitioner of medicine, certify that in the year
one thousand eight hundred and thirty-eight, I was a citizen of Far West,
Caldwell county, Missouri, and that in the fall of said year, I saw the
city invaded by a numerous armed soldiery, who compelled its inhabitants
to surrender, give up their firearms, and submit to their dictation. They
then set a strong guard around the city, thereby preventing egress or
ingress, without special permission. Then they collected the citizens
together upon the public square, formed around them a strong guard of
soldiers, and then at the mouths of their rifles, compelled them to sign
what was termed a deed of trust, thereby depriving them of all their
property and civil rights.

	This occupied several days of most inclement weather, when they were
brought to the same order by General Clark, and I judge some forty or
fifty were made special prisoners by him. At this time he delivered his
speech to the "Mormons," which has been published, and which is
substantially correct. I was compelled by a company of men armed with
rifles, to leave my house, and go to captain Bogart's camp. (he commanded,
as I understood, a part of the guard which surrounded the city,) upon an
indirect charge or insinuation; was detained a prisoner two days,
examined, and liberated. I then asked the clerk of the company, who had
been my keeper, the following questions, which he readily answered:

	Were those men who massacred the "Mormons" at Haun's mill, out under
the Governor's order, or were they mobbers?

	A. Mobbers.

	Are Captain Cornelius Gilliam and his company out by legal authority,
or are they mobbers?

	A. Mobbers.

	Where are those mobbers now?

	A. They have joined the army.

	This company [Gilliam's] at the surrender of Far West were painted
like Indians. The army wore a badge of red (blood). I saw a large amount
of lumber and timber destroyed, and used for fuel by the soldiers. The
destruction of cattle, hogs, etc., seemed to be their sport, as their camp
and the fields testified when they withdrew. An excellent gun was taken
from me, which I have never seen or heard of since. A

	gun that was left in my care was taken at the same time, which I
afterwards found with Wiley E. Williams of Richmond, (reputed one of the
Governor's aids,) to obtain which I had to prove property, affirm before a
magistrate and pay said Williams fifty cents.

	I was called to extract lead, dress the wounds, etc., for several
persons (Saints) who were shot in the above siege, two of whom died.
Immediately previous to the above transactions, and for a long time
before, the citizens of Caldwell, and particularly Far West, were called
upon to watch for mobs by day and guard against them by night, till it
became a burden almost intolerable. LEVI RICHARDS.

	Sworn to before C. M. Woods. Clerk Circuit Court, Adams county,
Illinois

	Affidavit of Gibson Gates. I, Gibson Gates, do hereby certify that I
was residing in Jackson county, Missouri, in the fall of the year, 1833,
and had been for the space of about one year. I was at a meeting one day
for worship, when a man by the name of Masters came to us, stating that he
was sent by the mob to inform us that if we would forsake our religion,
they were willing to be our brethren and fight for us; "but if not," said
he, "our young men are ready, and we can scarce constrain them from
falling upon you and cutting you to pieces."

	Soon after this there came a large company of men, armed, to my
place, and with much threatening and profane words, ordered me to be gone
by the next day, or they would kill me and my family; in consequence of
which threatening, we quit our house in the month of November, leaving
most of our effects; suffering very much with cold, fatigue and hunger, we
look [set out] on the prairie, and went southward twenty miles or more,
where we stayed a few weeks. But still being threatened by the mob, we
removed to Clay county, where we lived in peace until the fall of 1838,
when a mob arose against the people of the Church of Latter-day Saints,
when we were again obliged to leave our home, and seek safety in another
place for a few weeks. When we returned our house had been broken open,
and the lock of a trunk broken open, and the most valuable contents
thereof taken away; the most of our bedding and furniture was either
stole" or destroyed; and we were then ordered to leave the state. GIBSON
GATES.

	Sworn to before David W. Kilbourn, J P.

	Affidavit of David Pettigrew. This is to certify, that I, David
Pettigrew, was a citizen of Jackson county, Missouri, and owned a good
farm, lying on the Blue river, six miles west of independence, and lived
in peace with the inhabitants until the summer and fall of 1833, when the
inhabitants began to threaten us with destruction. I was at work in my
field, and a man by the name of Allen, and others with him, came along and
cried out, "Mr. Pettigrew, you are at work as though you were determined
to stay here, but we are determined that you shall leave the county
immediately." I replied that I was a free born citizen of the United
States, and had done harm to no man. "I therefore claim protection by the
law of the land," and that the law and the Constitution of the land would
not suffer them to commit so horrid a crime. They then replied that "the
old law and Constitution is worn out, and we are about to make a new one."

	I was at a meeting where we had met for prayer, and a man by the name
of Masters came and desired an interview with us; he then stated that he
was sent by the mob to inform us, that if we would forsake our "Mormon"
and Prophet religion, and become of their religion, they, the mob, would
be our brothers, and would fight for us; "but if you will not, we are
ready and will drive you from the county."

	A few days after this, a large mob came to my house, commanded by
General Moses Wilson, Hugh Braziel and Lewis Franklin, and broke down my
door, and burst into my house, armed with guns, clubs and knives; some of
them were painted red and black. This was in the night, and my family was
much frightened. They threatened me with immediate death if I did not
leave the place. After much abuse they left us for the night, but in a few
days they returned and drove me and my family into the street, not
suffering us to take anything with us. I saw that we must go or die; we
went south to Van Buren county, in company with eighty or ninety others.
In a short time after, I returned to my farm and found my house plundered,
my grain and crop, stock, and all my farm and farming tools laid waste and
destroyed; and shortly after my house was burned to ashes.

	I called on Esquire Western, of Independence, and inquired of him if
he could inform me what all this mobbing and riot meant, informing him of
the destruction and plundering of my house; to which he gave me no
satisfaction, but insulted me and treated me roughly. Governor Boggs lived
in the county, and I have seen him passing through among us in our great
distress, and gave no attention to our distresses. He was then
Lieutenant-Governor of the state. On my return to my family in Van Buren
county, I was much abused by a man by the name of Brady; he said he would
kill me if I ever attempted to go to my farm, or if he saw me passing that
way again. I returned to my family, and in a few days after, a company of
men came where we lived and said they would spill my blood if I did not
leave the place immediately. The leaders of this company were John Cornet,
Thomas Langley, and Hezekiah Warden; they lived in Jackson county.

	This was in the cold winter, and our sufferings were great. I fled
across the Missouri river to Clay county, where I lived three years; in
which time I often heard Judge Cameron and others say, that "you Mormons
cannot get your rights in any of the courts of the upper country;" and I
had not the privilege of voting as a free citizen.

	I moved to Caldwell county, bought land and opened a good farm, and
lived in peace until the summer and fall of 1838, when mobs arose in the
counties round about, and I with the rest was obliged to take up arms in
self defense; for the cry was, that mob law should prevail, if we stood
against them, until the army came and took us all prisoners of war. I with
the rest w=s obliged to sign a deed of trust at the point of the sword, I
with sixty others was selected out and marched to Richmond, in Ray county,
by the command of General Clark, where they kept us a number of weeks,
pretending to try us as treasoners and murderers. At length I obtained my
liberty, and returned to my family in Caldwell county: and I found that
there was no safety there, for there was no law, but all a scene of
robbing, and plundering, and stealing. They were about to take me again,
and I was obliged to leave my family and flee to Illinois. In about two
months my family arrived, having suffered much abuse and loss of health
and property. Soon after the arrival of my family my son, a young man,
died; and I attribute his death to the cruel barbarity of the mob of
Missouri, he being a prisoner among them, and having suffered much because
of them.

	My father was a soldier, and served in the Revolutionary War, under
the great Washington, but I have not had protection on my own lands; and I
have not been permitted to see my farm in Jackson county, Missouri, in
seven years. Soldiers were stationed or quartered in different parts of
Far West; and they treated us roughly, threatening to shoot us, and making
use of anything they pleased, such as burning house, timber, and rails,
and garden fences, and stealing and plundering what they pleased.

	When I was at Richmond, a prisoner before Judge King, we sent for
many witnesses; and when they came, they were taken and cast into Prison
with us, and we were not permitted to have any witnesses. The day I came
out of prison, they compelled me to sign a writing which was not true or
remain in prison. DAVID PETTIGREW.

	Sworn to before D. W. Kilbourn, J. P.

	Thus I have given a few of the multitude of affidavits which might be
given to substantiate the facts of our persecutions and deaths in
Missouri. When the brethren left Missouri, they were poor, having been
plundered of everything valued by mobs. Much of the plundering was done
under the eye of the government officers, according to the foregoing
affidavits; and all by the sanction of the state of Missouri, as the acts
of her legislature testify. The Saints, being so numerous, were obliged
to scatter over the state of Illinois and different states to get bread
and clothing--so that but few accounts against Missouri could be collected
without unreasonable exertions. About 491 individuals gave in their claims
against Missouri, which I presented to Congress--amounting to about
$1,381,044.00; leaving a multitude more of similar bills hereafter to be
presented, which, if not settled immediately, will ere long amount to a
handsome sum, increasing by compound interest.


                               CHAPTER IV. 
    DEPARTURE OF THE PROPHET FROM WASHINGTON--LABORS OF ELIAS HIGBEE 
     BEFORE THE SENATE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE--REPORT OF THE COMMITTEE.

	Wednesday, 8.--The High Council at Nauvoo voted to loan all the
moneys possible for the relief of the poor Saints.

	This evening President Young preached at a school house in the south
west part of Richmond, when the people present commenced making a noise
and disturbing the meeting, and when President Young was reproving them
for their disgraceful conduct, some of those present fired lucifer
matches. President Young rebuked them severely, and taught them better
manners, and proposed to send them some Indians from the West to civilize
them.

	Thursday, 9.--About this time I returned to Philadelphia, where I
continued to preach and visit for a little season.

	George A. Smith preached at Richmond this evening. His health is
still very poor, and he is almost blind.  President Young also was very
feeble. While they were opening the meeting, some one threw a quantity of
brimstone in the fire, which nearly suffocated them. As soon as the fumes
of brimstone would permit, Brother Smith old them he thought he should be
in no danger of catching the itch in Massachusetts, for the smell of
brimstone indicated that it was thoroughly cured.

	Sunday, 12.--Elders Young and Smith held a meeting at William
Pierson's, Richmond. After preaching, Elder Smith had a severe shake of
the ague, which lasted some hours. The weather was extremely cold, but by
the kind attention of Mr. Pierson's family, and William Richards, he was
in some measure relieved of his ague before he left Richmond. President
Young wore a cradle bed quilt from Far West to Richmond, where Rhoda
Richards lined Doctor Richard's old worn out plaid cloak with President
Young's quilt, with flannel between, which made him very comfortable.

	Monday, 13.--Elders Wilford Woodruff, John Taylor, and Theodore
Turley arrived at Preston, England.

	Tuesday, 14.--About this time Elder Rigdon and Doctor Foster arrived
at Philadelphia.

	Friday, 17.--A special council was held at the house of Elder Willard
Richards, in Preston, Joseph Fielding, president, Theodore Turley, scribe.
Present, Wilford Woodruff, John Taylor, Hiram Clark, and Willard Richards.
Council decided that Elders Woodruff and Turley should go to the
Staffordshire potteries; Elders Taylor and Fielding, to Liverpool; Elder
Clark, to Manchester, with Elder William Clayton; and Elder Willard
Richards to go where the Spirit directs; that the Elders of the council
communicate with the presidency at Preston once a month; and Elder
Richards write to Brothers Alexander Wright and Samuel Mulliner in
Scotland, and hold no general conference until more of the Twelve arrive.

	Elders Brigham Young and George A. Smith went to Canaan, Connecticut,
with Edwin D. Pierson, Elder Smith shaking very severely with the ague in
the evening.

	Saturday, 18.--Elders Woodruff and Turley started for the Potteries.

	Sunday 19.--The High Council at Nauvoo voted to donate a city lot to
Brother James Hendrix, who was shot in Missouri; also voted to build him a
house; also donated a house and lot to Father Joseph Knight.

	Elder Brigham Young preached at Sheffield mills, where he stayed till
the twenty-sixth.

	Wednesday, 22.--Elders Fielding and Taylor went to Liverpool and
commenced their mission.

	Saturday, 25.--About this time I visited the Saints at Brandywine,
where I spent some days, and returned to Philadelphia.

	Monday, 27.--Brothers Gibson Smith and Peter French conveyed Elders
Brigham Young and George A. Smith to New Haven, where they tarried until
the 31st.

	About the last of this month, I left Philadelphia for Washington, in
company with Brothers Rockwell, Higbee, and Doctor Foster, traveling by
railroad, having sold my carriage, and having left Elder Rigdon sick in
Philadelphia.

	Friday, 31.--Elders Brigham Young and George A. Smith took steamboat
from New Haven for New York City. When within eighteen miles of the city,
they took the stage, and arrived at their destination about ten o'clock at
night. When they alighted from the carriage they had no funds to pay their
fare, and Elder Young asked Captain Stone to pay their bill, fifty cents,
which he very readily did; and they found Elder Parley P. Pratt's house in
about five minutes, where they stayed Saturday, February 1st.

	Sunday, February 2.--Elders Brigham Young and George A. Smith
preached in the Columbia Hall. Elder Young preached every evening during
the week, till Saturday, three times in the Columbia Hall; by which he
injured himself so much, that he was not able to dress himself for four or
five days.

	On Monday George A. Smith went to Philadelphia.

	Thursday, 6.--I had previously preached in Washington, and one of my
sermons I find reported in synopsis, by a member of Congress; which I will
insert entire.

	Mathew S. Davis' Description of the Prophet, and a Report of his
Washington Discourse.

	WASHINGTON, 6th February, 1840.

	MY DEAR MARY:--I went last evening to hear "Joe Smith," the
celebrated Mormon, expound his doctrine. I, with several others, had a
desire to understand his tenets as explained by himself. He is not an
educated man: but he is a plain, sensible, strong minded man. Everything
he says, is said in a manner to leave an impression that he is sincere.
There is no levity, no fanaticism, no want of dignity in his deportment.
He is apparently from forty to forty-five years of age, rather above the
middle stature, and what you ladies would call a very good looking man. In
his garb there are no peculiarities; his dress being that of a plain,
unpretending citizen. He is by profession a farmer, but is evidently well
read.

	He commenced by saying, that he knew the prejudices which were abroad
in the world against him, but requested us to pay no respect to the rumors
which were in circulation respecting him or his doctrines. He was
accompanied by three or four of his followers. He said, "I state to you
our belief, so far as time will permit." "I believe," said he, "that there
is a God, possessing all the attributes ascribed to Him by all Christians
of all denominations; that He reigns over all things in heaven and on
earth, and that all are subject to His power." He then spoke rationally of
the attributes of Divinity, such as foreknowledge, mercy &c., &c. He then
took up the Bible. "I believe said he, "in this sacred volume. In it the
'Mormon' faith is to be found. We teach nothing but what the Bible
teaches. We believe nothing, but what is to be found in this book. I
believe in the fall of man, as recorded in the Bible; I believe that God
foreknew everything, but did not foreordain everything; I deny that
foreordain and foreknow is the same thing. He foreordained the fall of
man; but all merciful as He is, He foreordained at the same time, a plan
of redemption for all mankind. I believe in the Divinity of Jesus Christ,
and that He died for the sins of all men, who in Adam had fallen." He then
entered into some details, the result of which tended to show his total
unbelief of what is termed original sin. He believes that it is washed
away by the blood of Christ, and that it no longer exists. As a necessary
consequence, he believes that we are all born pure and undefiled. That all
children dying at an early age (say eight years) not knowing good from
evil, were incapable of sinning; and that all such assuredly go to heaven.
"I believe," said he, "that a man is a moral, responsible, free agent;
that although it was foreordained he should fall, and be redeemed, yet
after the redemption it was not foreordained that he should again sin. In
the Bible a rule of conduct is laid down for him; in the Old and New

	Testaments the law by which he is to be governed, may be found. If he
violates that law, he is to be punished for the deeds done in the body.

	I believe that God is eternal. That He had no beginning, and can have
no end. Eternity means that which is without beginning or end. I believe
that the soul is eternal; and had no beginning; it can have no end. Here
he entered into some explanations, which were so brief that I could not
perfectly comprehend him. But the idea seemed to be that the soul of man,
the spirit, had existed from eternity in the bosom of Divinity; and so far
as he was intelligible to me, must ultimately return from whence it came.
He said very little of rewards and punishments; but one conclusion, from
what he did say, was irresistible--he contended throughout, that
everything which had a beginning must have an ending; and consequently if
the punishment of man commenced in the next world, it must, according to
his logic and belief have an end.

	During the whole of his address, and it occupied more than two hours,
there was no opinion or belief that he expressed, that was calculated, in
the slightest degree, to impair the morals of society, or in any manner to
degrade and brutalize the human species. There was much in his precepts,
if they were followed, that would soften the asperities of man towards
man, and that would tend to make him a more rational being than he is
generally found to be. There was no violence, no fury, no denunciation.
His religion appears to be the religion of meekness, lowliness, and mild
persuasion.

	Towards the close of his address, he remarked that he had been
represented as pretending to be a Savior, a worker of miracles, etc. All
this was false. He made no such pretensions. He was but a man, he said; a
plain, untutored man; seeking what he should do to be saved. He performed
no miracles. He did not pretend to possess any such power. He closed by
referring to the Mormon Bible, which he said, contained nothing
inconsistent or conflicting with the Christian Bible, and he again
repeated that all who would follow the precepts of the Bible, whether
Mormon or not, would assuredly be saved.

	Throughout his whole address, he displayed strongly a spirit of
charity and forbearance. The Mormon Bible, he said, was communicated to
him, direct from heaven. If there was such a thing on earth, as the author
of it, then he (Smith) was the author; but the idea that he wished to
impress was, that he had penned it as dictated by God.

	I have taken some pains to explain this mans belief, as he himself
explained it. I have done so because it might satisfy your curiosity, and
might be interesting to you, and some of your friends. I have changed my
opinion of the Mormons. They are an injured and much-abused people. Of
matters of faith, you know I express no opinion. I have only room to
add--let William, if you cannot do it, acknowledge the receipt of this,
with the enclosure.

	Remember me to Sarah and the boys. Kiss the dear baby for me.
Affectionately your husband, M. L. DAVIS.

	P. S.--I omitted to say, he does not believe in infant baptism,
sprinkling, but in immersion, after eight years of age.

	To Mrs. Mathew L. Davis, 107 Henry Street, New York.

	During my stay I had an interview with Martin Van Buren, the
President, who treated me very insolently, and it was with great
reluctance he listened to our message, which, when he had heard, he said:
"Gentlemen, your cause is just, but I can do nothing for you;" and "If I
take up for you I shall lose the vote of Missouri." His whole course went
to show that he was an office-seeker, that self-aggrandizement was his
ruling passion, and that justice and righteousness were no part of his
composition. I found him such a man as I could not conscientiously support
at the head of our noble Republic. I also had an interview with Mr. John
C. Calhoun, whose conduct towards me very ill became his station. I became
satisfied there was little use for me to tarry, to press the just claims
of the Saints on the consideration of the President or Congress, and
stayed but a few days, taking passage in company with Porter Rockwell and
Dr. Foster on the railroad and stages back to Dayton, Ohio.

	Friday, 7.--High Council at Montrose voted to disfellowship all
brethren who should persist in keeping tippling shops in that branch of
the Church.

	Sunday, 16.--Elder Brigham Young tarried at Elder Parley P. Pratt's,
58 Mott Street, N. Y., and Elder Heber C. Kimball arrived there this
morning.

	Thursday, 20.--Judge Higbee I left at Washington, and he wrote me as
follows:


	Elias Higbee's Letter to the Prophet, Reporting Progress of the Cause
of the Saints Before the Senate Committee. WASHINGTON CITY, Feb. 20th,
1840.

	DEAR BROTHER:--I have just returned from the Committee Room, wherein
I spoke about one hour and a half. There were but three of the committee
present, for which I am very sorry. I think they will be obliged to
acknowledge the justice of our cause. They paid good attention; and I
think my remarks were well received. It was a special meeting appointed to
hear me by my request. The Missouri Senators and Representatives were
invited to attend. Dr. Linn, and Mr. Jamieson attended, and God gave me
courage, so that I was not intimidated by them. Dr. Linn, I thought, felt
a little uneasy at times; but manifested a much better spirit afterwards
than Mr. Jamieson.

	I told them first, that I represented a suffering people, who had
been deprived, together with myself, of their rights in Missouri; who
numbered something like fifteen thousand souls; and not only they, but
many others were deprived of the rights guaranteed to them by the
Constitution of the United States. At least the amount of one hundred and
fifty thousand free-born citizens are deprived the enjoyment of
citizenship in each and every state; that we had no ingress in the state
of Missouri; nor could any of us have, only at the expense of our lives;
and this by the order of the executive.

	I then took their own declaration of the cause of our expulsion;
referred them to Parley P. Pratt's pamphlet, which I held in my hand; then
showed that the first accusation therein contained, was on account of our
religious tenets; furthermore, that the others were utterly groundless. I
went on to prove that the whole persecution, from beginning to end, was
grounded on our religious faith. For evidence of this, I referred them to
Porter Rockwell's testimony, and P. Powell's. I stated that there was
abundant testimony to prove this to be a fact, among the documents.

	I then gave a brief history of the persecutions, from the first
settlement in the state to our final expulsion. I also stated that the
society were industrious, inoffensive, and innocent of crime; had the
Times and Seasons, from which I read Governor Lucas's letter to Alanson
Ripley. I also referred to Judge Young's letter from Pike county, the
clerk's and others, respecting our character in their section of the
country. I gave them some hints of the Haun's mill massacre, and the
murder of the two little boys, but referred them more particularly to the
documents for information concerning those things; and furthermore that I
had not come here to instruct them in what they were to do in the case,
but to Present them with the facts--having all confidence in this
honorable body (the Congress), believing them to be honorable men.

	I demanded from them a restitution of all our rights and privileges
as citizens of the United States, and damages for all the losses we had
sustained in consequence of our persecutions and expulsion from the state;
and told them we could have recourse no where else on earth that I knew
of; that we could not sue an army of soldiers, neither could we go into
the state to sue anyone else. I told them that I knew not how far Congress
had jurisdiction in this case, or how far they had not; but as far as they
had, we claimed the exercise of it for our relief; for we were an injured
people.

	These and some others were the principal subjects of my speech; after
which Mr. Jamieson said he was once in the "Mormons'" favor; but
afterwards learned that it was impossible to live among them, for they
stole their neighbors' hogs; and there being so much testimony, he
believed it, etc., etc. I replied something like this' making statements
was one thing, and proving them was another. Mr Linn then said he wished
me to answer one thing, viz.: If the legislature of Missouri did not
refuse to investigate the subject of our difficulties solely on account of
the trials then pending. In reply I assured him that I knew they had
refused us an investigation; but as to that being the cause, I did not
know, but told him they might have done it when those trials were
discharged. He seemed to think it an injustice for Congress to take it up
before the legislature had acted on it.

	I occupied all but a few minutes of the time when the Senate was to
go into session, so they adjourned until tomorrow at ten o'clock, when the
Missourians are to reply. Mr. Linn observed, that there was a gentleman
whom he would have before the committee on the morrow, who lived in the
upper part of Missouri, that knew everything relative to the affair. I
presume he is to put in his gab. I suppose I must attend the committee, as
I am solicited by the chairman; but I would rather take a flogging;
because I must sit still, and hear a volubility of lies concerning myself
and brethren. Lies I say, for they have nothing but lies to tell, that
will in the least degree justify their conduct in Missouri. Mr. Linn said
he had written to Missouri, to get all the evidence taken before Judge
King; so that if the thing must come up, he would be prepared to have a
full investigation of the matter, and that the committee should have power
to send for persons, papers, &c,. &c.

	In my remarks I stated that an article of the Constitution was
violated in not granting compulsory process for witnesses in behalf of the
prisoners; and that the main evidence adduced, upon which they were
committed, (as I understood), was from Dr. Avard, who once belonged to our
society, and was compelled to swear as suited them best, in order to save
his life; that I knew him to be a man whose character was the worst I ever
knew in all my associations or intercourse with mankind; and that I had
evidence by affidavits before them, of five or six respectable men, to
prove that all he swore to was false.

	Brethren and sisters, I want your especial prayers, that God may give
me wisdom to manage this case according to His will, and that He will
protect me from our foes, both publicly and privately. Yours in the bonds
of love, ELIAS HIGBEE.

	Second letter of Elias Higbee to the Prophet--Cause of the Saints
before the Senate Committee.

	WASHINGTON CITY, February 21st, 1840.

	DEAR BRETHREN.--I have just returned again from the Committee Room.
Mr. Linn and Mr. Jamieson made some remarks, to which I replied. Mr. Linn
is much more mild and reasonable (mostly perhaps from policy) than Mr.
Jamieson, who related a long lingo of stuff, which he said was proven
before the legislature in Missouri, which amounted to about this' that
Joseph Smith gave the "Mormons" liberty to trespass on their neighbors'
property; also told them, that it all belonged to them; as they were
Israelites. Upon the strength of this they became the aggressors. I
replied that the Jackson county people in their declaration of causes that
induced them to unite in order to drive the "Mormons," the crime of
stealing, or trespassing, was not mentioned; and there was no docket,
either clerk's or justice's, that could show it, in Jackson, Clay,
Caldwell, or in Daviess counties; and that no man ever heard such teaching
or doctrine from Joseph Smith, or any other "Mormon; " that we held to no
such doctrine, neither believed in any such thing.

	I mentioned some things contained in our Book of Doctrine and
Covenants; Government and Laws in general. I told them we had published
long ago our belief on that subject. Some things I recollected, which were
that all persons should obey the laws of the government under which they
lived, and that ecclesiastical power should not be exercised to control
our civil rights in any way; particularly that ecclesiastical power should
only be used in the Church; and then no further than fellowship was
concerned. I think they injured their cause today. There is another
appointment for them on the morrow, at 10 o'clock. Their friend they said
was sick, consequently could not attend today. Mr. Linn said he thought it
would be time enough to take it up in Congress when they [the Saints]
could not get justice from the State; and that he was confident there was
a disposition in the state of Missouri to do us justice, should we apply;
that the reason of their refusing to investigate before was, the trials of
the prisoners were pending; and further said, (when speaking of the trials
before Judge King,) that he understood from gentlemen that the prisoners
commended the Judge for his clemency and fair dealing towards them; and
acknowledged they were guilty in part of the charge preferred against
them. Mr. Linn said he presumed I was not present, when said men were
tried. I replied in the negative, that I was not there, neither any body
else that could be a witness in their favor. The lawyers advised them to
keep away if they desired the salvation of their lives. I observed that I
had read the proceedings of the legislature, but did not now recollect
them; but since yesterday I have been reflecting on the subject, and
recollect a conversation I had with Mr. Harvey Redfield, who was the
bearer of the petition to Jefferson City, and he informed me that the
reasons why they refused an investigation, was on account of the Upper
Missouri members being so violently opposed to it, that they used their
utmost exertions, and finally succeeded in getting a majority against it;
and the reason of their taking this course was, in consequence of one of
their members being in the massacre at Haun's mill, viz., Mr. Ashley; and
Cornelius Gilliam was a leader of the first mob in Daviess county, which
the militia were called out to suppress.

	Mr. Linn said if it must come out in Congress, it should be fully
investigated, and they, the Committee, should have power to send for
persons and papers; for if we have a right to claim damages of the United
States, so had they, if all were true concerning the acts alleged against
the "Mormons;" that they had a right to ask the Government to pay the war
against the "Mormons;" but finally seemed to disapprove of the
exterminating order, which was admitted to have existed by Mr. Jamieson,
or was issued by their legislature, but that no one ever thought of
carrying it into effect. He said that General Clark merely advised the
"Mormons" to leave the State. To which I replied, General Clark's speech
was before them; that I had stated some of its contents yesterday; and if
it were necessary, I could prove it by four or five hundred affidavits.

	Then Mr. Jamieson stated something about the prisoners making their
escape, and that he had no doubt but that they could have a fair trial in
Missouri, for the legislature, to his certain knowledge, passed a law
whereby they had a right to choose any county in the State to be tried in.
To which I replied, that I understood such a law was passed; but
notwithstanding, they could not get their trials in the county wherein
they desired; for they were forced to go to Boone, whereas they desired to
have their trials in Palmyra, where they could get their witnesses, as
that was only sixteen miles from the river, and the other was a great
distance. He said that Judge King certainly would not go contrary to law.
I told him there were some affidavits in those documents that would tell
him some things very strange concerning Judge

	King. Mr. Linn then wished to know if the affidavits were from
anybody else save "Mormons." I replied that there were some others; but
how many I knew not. He then wanted to know how they were certified;
whether any clerk's name was attached in the business. I told him they
were well authenticated by the Courts of Record, with the Clerk's name
attached thereto.

	After these things and some others were said, the committee refused
to consult on the subject. Only the same three attended that were in
yesterday. The Chairman observed that they had not expressed any opinion
relative to the subject' but observed his mind was made up in relation to
the matter. I think, from all I have discovered, Mr. Smith of Indiana will
be on the side of justice; but how the thing will terminate I cannot tell.
Mr. Crittenden and Mr. Strange are the two absent members of the
Committee. Yours in the bond of love, ELIAS HIGBEE.

	Third Letter of Elias Higbee to the Prophet--Cause of the Saints
before the Senate Committee. WASHINGTON, February 22nd, 1840.

	DEAR BROTHER.--I have just returned from the Committee Room. The
Committee being present today, a Mr. Corwin of St. Louis, formerly a
democratic editor, emptied his budget; which was as great a bundle of
nonsense and stuff as could be thought of; I suppose not what he knew, but
what gentlemen had told him; for instance, the religious General Clark and
others. I confess I had hard work to restrain my feeling some of the time,
but I did succeed in keeping silence tolerably well. Himself, Mr.
Jamieson, and Mr. Linn summoned all the energies of their minds to impress
upon the assembly that "Joe Smith," as he called him, led the people
altogether by Revelation, in their temporal, civil, and political matters,
and by this means caused all the "Mormons" to vote the "whole-hog" ticket
on one side, except two persons. But when I got an opportunity of
speaking, I observed that Joseph Smith never led any of the Church in
these matters; as we considered him to have no authority, neither did he
presume to exercise any of that nature; that Revelations were only
concerning spiritual things in the Church; and the Bible being our
standard, we received no Revelations contrary to it. I also observed that
we were not such ignoramuses, perhaps, as he fain would have people
believe us to be; and some other things on this subject. I then told him
that every man exercised the right of suffrage according to his better
judgment, and without any ecclesiastical restraint being put upon him;
that it was all false about a Revelation on voting; and the reason of our
voting that ticket was in consequence of the Democratic principles having
been taught us from our infancy, and that they ever extended equal rights
to all; and further we had been much persecuted previous to that
time--many threatenings being made from the counties round about, as well
as among us, by those who took the lead in political affairs. It was true
we advised our brethren to vote this ticket, telling them we thought that
party would protect our rights, and not suffer us to be driven from our
lands, as we had hitherto been; believing it to be by far the most liberal
party; but in that we were mistaken, because when it came to the test,
there were as many Democrats turned against us as Whigs; and indeed less
liberality and political freedom were manifested by them; for one Whig
paper came out decidedly in our favor.

	I made these remarks partly from motives which I may at another time
explain to you. He laid great stress on the trials at Richmond, and a
constitution, that he said Avard and others (who were in good standing in
the "Mormon" Church at this time) swore to; then went on to relate what it
contained, and that it was written by Sidney Rigdon. I flatly denied it,
and I could bring all the "Mormons," both men, women, and children,
besides myself, that would swear before all the world, that no such thing
ever existed, nor was thought of among the "Mormons."

	He then related some things which he said John Corril had told him at
the legislature, in Missouri; which were to the effect that the "Mormons"
had burnt a number of houses in Daviess county, and that for himself, if
he could not get to heaven by being an honest man, he would never go
there. Then, I, speaking of some of the dissenters, told him Corril was
anxious to get into the Church again, and that it was the fact in regard
to damages having been done, after we had been driven from Jackson and
Clay--relating the De Witt scrape, and calling of the militia, and the
mob's marching to Daviess and saying they would drive the "Mormons" from
there to Caldwell, and then to hell; their burning our houses: that small
parties on both sides were on the alert, and probably did some damages;
though I was not personally knowing to [it], as I was not there. I told
him Joseph Smith held no office in the country, neither was he a military
man, and did not take gun in hand in the affair to my knowledge. I then
stated that John Corril's affidavit, which contained some important facts,
was before them,--which facts I forgot to mention yesterday,--importing
that he (John Corril) was convinced we would get no redress in Missouri
(he being a member of the legislature, ought to know). I saw the Chairman
of the Committee not long since, who informed me that the Committee had
not come to a final conclusion on this matter as yet.

	I saw Mr. Jamieson on the walk, who said the first thing the
Committee would do was to decide whether they would take it up and
consider it or not; and if they do take it up according to request, the
Senate will grant the Committee power to send for persons and papers. The
Committee made some inquiries respecting our religion, and I answered
there, as a matter of course, as well as I was able.

	They inquired very particularly concerning how much land we had
entered there, and how much of it yet remained unsold; when Mr. Corwin
observed that we had never entered much land there, but were squatters. I
then described the size of Caldwell and Daviess counties, giving an
explanation on these matters.

	I suppose perhaps on Monday or Tuesday, we shall know something
relative to this matter. Whether power be given them to send for persons
and papers, [or not] you may see where they depend to rally their forces,
viz., by endeavoring to make us treasonable characters, by the
constitution, said to govern us, and that everything both civil and
political among us is done by revelation. These points I desire to blow to
the four winds, and that you will select a number of firm brethren,
possessing good understanding, who will tell the truth, and willingly send
me their names when they know they are wanted. Send plenty of them. They
will get two dollars per day, and ten cents a mile to and from, [as]
expense money. Do not send them until their subpoenas get there, for they
will not draw expense money only for going home.

	I will suggest a few names--Alanson Ripley, King Follett, Amasa
Lyman, Francis M. Higbee, as they know concerning the De Witt scrape; also
send Charles C. Rich, Seymour Brunson, and others. You will know whom to
send better than myself.

	If the Missourians should send for you, I would say consult God about
going. ELIAS HIGBEE.

	P. S.--Mr. Jamieson stated to me this evening, if the "Mormons" could
make it appear that they had been wronged, they would use their influence
in having them redressed, so the shame should not fall on the whole state,
but on those which had been guilty. I then observed that there was a
minority in the legislature, much in our favor, which seemed to please
him, as they alluded several times to it. The cause of my being so
particular, is to show you the whole ground I have taken in this matter,
that there may be no inconsistency. If I have erred in this matter, it is
my head and not my heart. ELIAS HIGBEE.

	Sunday, 23.--Elder Brigham Young had so far recovered as to be able
to attend preaching by Parley P. Pratt, at Columbia Hall, New York.

	The High Council of Nauvoo voted, that the notes given into the hands
of Bishop Partridge, by certain individuals, as consecrations for building
the Lord's House in Far West, be returned to the same by him.

	Tuesday, 25.--Elders Brigham Young and Reuben Hedlock went to
Hampstead, on Long Island, and preached at Rockaway and the neighborhood
till the fourth of March, and baptized nine.

	The Fourth Letter of Elias Higbee to the Prophet--Announces that the
Senate Committee's Report will be Adverse to the Saints.

	WASHINGTON, February 26th, 1840.

	DEAR BROTHER.--I am just informed, by General Wall (the Chairman of
the Committee), before whom, or to whom, our business is referred, that
the decision is against us, or in other words unfavorable, that they
believe redress can only be had in Missouri, the courts and legislature.
He says, they will report this week. I desire to get a copy of it, and
also the papers. I feel a conscience void of offense towards God and man
in this matter; that I have discharged my duty here; and as I wish not to
be on expense, as soon as I can write to President Rigdon, get my papers,
and draw some money to bear my expenses, I shall bid adieu to this city,
to return to my family and friends.

	I feel now that we have made our last appeal to all earthly
tribunals; that we should now put our whole trust in the God of Abraham,
Isaac, and Jacob. We have a right now which we could not heretofore so
fully claim--that is, of asking God for redress and redemption, as they
have been refused us by man. ELIAS HIGBEE.

	To Joseph Smith, Junior.

	When I had returned as far as Dayton, Ohio, I found the horses which
we left on our journey out, and from thence I pursued my journey through
Indiana on horseback, in company with Dr. Foster, leaving Brother Porter
Rockwell at Dayton; the traveling being exceedingly bad, my progress was
slow and wearisome.

	My clerk, James Mulholland, while I was absent, died on November 3rd,
1839, aged thirty-five years. He was a man of fine education, and a
faithful scribe and Elder in the Church.

	Wednesday, March 4, 1840. I arrived safely at Nauvoo, after a
wearisome journey, through alternate snow and mud, having witnessed many
vexatious movements in government officers, whose sole object should be
the peace and prosperity and happiness of the whole people; but instead of
this, I discovered that popular clamor and personal aggrandizement were
the ruling principles of those in authority; and my heart faints within me
when I see, by the visions of the Almighty, the end of this nation, if she
continues to disregard the cries and petitions of her virtuous citizens,
as she has done, and is now doing.

	I have also enjoyed many precious moments with the Saints during my
journey.

	On my way home I did not fail to proclaim the iniquity and insolence
of Martin Van Buren, toward myself and an injured people, which will have
its effect upon the public mind; and may he never be elected again to any
office of trust or power, by which he may abuse the innocent and let the
guilty go free.

	I depended on Dr. Foster to keep my daily journal during this
journey, but he has failed me.

	Elders Brigham Young and Reuben Hedlock returned to New York, and
held a conference, when many Elders were ordained.

	Report of the Senate Judiciary Committee on the Case of the Saints
vs. Missouri.

	Twenty-sixth Congress--First Session.--In the Senate of the United
States, March 4th, 1840. Submitted, laid on the table, and ordered to be
printed, the following Report, made by Mr. Wall--

	The Committee on the Judiciary to whom was referred the Memorial of a
Delegation of the Latter-day Saints, report--

	The Petition of the Memoralists sets forth, in substance, that a
portion of their sect commenced a settlement in the county of Jackson, in
the state of Missouri, in the summer of 1831; that they bought lands,
built houses, erected churches, and established their homes, and engaged
in all the various occupations of life; that they were expelled from that
county in 1833 by a mob, under circumstances of great outrage, cruelty,
and oppression, and against all law, and without any offense committed on
their part, and to the destruction of property to the amount of 120,000
dollars; that the society thus expelled amounted to about 1,200 souls;
that no compensation was ever made for the destruction of their property
in Jackson; that after their expulsion from Jackson county, they settled
in Clay county, on the opposite side of the Missouri river, where they
purchased lands, and entered others at the land office; where they resided
peaceably for three years, engaged in cultivation, and other useful and
active employments, when the mob again threatened their peace, lives, and
property; and they became alarmed, and finally made a treaty with the
citizens of Clay county, that they should purchase their lands, and the
Saints should remove; which was complied with on their part, and the
saints removed to the county of Caldwell, where they took up their abode
and re-established their settlement, not without heavy pecuniary losses
and other inconveniences; that the citizens of Clay county never paid them
for their lands, except for a small part; they remained in Caldwell from
1836 until the fall of 1838, and during that time had acquired, by
purchase from the Government, the settlers, and preemptioners, almost all
the lands in the county of Caldwell, and a portion of the lands in Daviess
and Carrol counties--the former county being almost entirely settled by
the Saints, and they were rapidly filling up the two latter counties.

	Those counties, when the Saints first commenced their settlement,
were for the most part wild and uncultivated, and they had converted them
into large and well improved farms, well stocked. Land had risen in value
to ten or even twenty-five dollars per acre, and these counties were
rapidly advancing in cultivation and wealth.

	That in August, 1838, a riot commenced, growing out of an attempt of
a Saint to vote, which resulted in creating great excitement, and the
perpetration of many scenes of lawless outrage, which are set forth in the
Petition. That they were finally compelled to fly from those counties, and
on the 11th October, 1838, they sought safety by that means, with their
families, leaving many of their effects behind. That they had previously
applied to the constituted authorities of Missouri for protection, but in
vain. They allege, that they were pursued by the mob; that conflicts
ensued: deaths occurred on each side: and finally a force was organized
under the authority of the Governor of the state of Missouri, with orders
to drive the Saints from the state, or exterminate them. The Saints
thereupon determined to make no further resistance, but to submit
themselves to the authorities of the state.

	Several of the Saints were arrested and imprisoned on a charge of
treason against the state, and the rest, amounting to about 15,000 souls,
fled into other states, principally into Illinois, where they now reside.

	The petition is drawn up at great length, and sets forth, with
feeling and eloquence, the wrongs of which they complain; justifies their
own conduct, and aggravates that of those whom they call their
persecutors, and concludes by saying they see no redress, unless it be
obtained of the Congress of the United States, to whom they make their
solemn, last appeal, as American citizens, as Christians, and as men; to
which decision they say they will submit.

	The committee have examined the case presented by the petition, and
heard the views urged by their agent, with care and attention; and after
full examination and consideration, unanimously concur in the opinion--

	That the case presented for their investigation is not such a one as
will justify or authorize any interposition by this government.

	The wrongs complained of are not alleged to be committed by any of
the officers of the United States, or under the authority of its
government in any manner whatever. The allegations in the petition relate
to the acts of its citizens, and inhabitants and authorities of the state
of Missouri, of which state the petitioners were at the time citizens, or
inhabitants.

	The grievances complained of in the petition are alleged to have been
done within the territory of the state of Missouri. The committee, under
these circumstances, have not considered themselves justified in inquiring
into the truth or falsehood of the facts charged in the petition. If they
are true, the petitioners must seek relief in the courts of judicature of
the state of Missouri, or of the United States, which has the appropriate
jurisdiction to administer full and adequate redress for the wrongs
complained of, and doubless will do so fairly and impartially;

	or the petitioners may, if they see proper, apply to the justice and
magnanimity of the state of Missouri--an appeal which the committee feel
justified in believing will never be made in vain by the injured or
oppressed.

	It can never be presumed that a state either wants the power or lacks
the disposition to redress the wrongs of its own citizens, committed
within her own territory, whether they proceed from the lawless acts of
her officers or any other persons. The committee therefore report that
they recommend the passage of the following resolution:

	Resolved, That the committee on the judiciary he discharged from the
further consideration of the memorial in this case; and that the
memorialists have leave to withdraw the papers which accompany their
memorial.


                               CHAPTER V. 
  AFFAIRS OF THE SAINTS BEFORE UNITED STATES SENATE--GENERAL CONFERENCE 
  OF THE CHURCH AT NAUVOO--ACTION OF THE CHURCH WITH REFERENCE TO SENATE
                 COMMITTEE'S REPORT--MISSION TO PALESTINE.

	Friday, 6.---Attended the meeting of the High Council of Iowa, at
Brother Elijah Fordham's, Montrose.

	Extract from the Minutes of the Iowa High Council.

	President Joseph Smith, Jun., addressed the Council on various
subjects, and in particular the consecration law; stating that the affairs
now before Congress was the only thing that ought to interest the Saints
at present; and till it was ascertained how it would terminate, no person
ought to be brought to account before the constituted authorities of the
Church for any offense whatever; and [he] was determined that no man
should be brought before the Council in Nauvoo till that time, etc., etc.
The law of consecration could not be kept here, and that it was the will
of the Lord that we should desist from trying to keep it; and if persisted
in, it would produce a perfect defeat of its object, and that he assumed
the whole responsibility of not keeping it until proposed by himself.

	He requested every exertion to be made to forward affidavits to
Washington, and also letters to members of Congress. The following votes
were then passed:

	First---That this Council will coincide with President Joseph Smith,
Jun.'s decision concerning the consecration law, on the principle of its
being the will of the Lord, and of President Smith's taking the
responsibility on himself.

	Second--That a committee of three be appointed, consisting of Wheeler
Baldwin, Lyman Wight, and Abraham O. Smoot, to obtain affidavits and other
documents to be forwarded to the city of Washington.

	Third--That the clerk of this Council be directed to inform Judge
Higbee, that it is the wish of this Council that he should not, upon any
consideration, consent to accept of anything of Congress short of our just
rights and demands for our losses and damages in Missouri.

	Sunday, 8.---I attended the Council of Nauvoo, at Brother Granger's.

	President Brigham Young preached in Columbia Hall, New York.

	Monday, 9.---Elders Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, Parley P. Pratt,
Orson Pratt, George A. Smith, and Reuben Hedlock, sailed from New York on
the Patrick Henry for Liverpool.

	Fifth Letter of Elias Higbee to the Prophet--the Affairs of the
Saints at Washington.

	WASHINGTON, March 9th, 1840. DEAR BROTHER:--I expected, by this time,
that we would be through with our business, but the chairman of the
committee gave notice last week, he should call it [the committee's
Report] up today in the Senate; through Mr. Young's having gone to
Philadelphia, it will not be called up until his return, which will be on
next Thursday according to the information that I have obtained relative
to this matter. If the resolution is passed, as annexed to the Report, I
shall get my papers and leave the city.

	I have written some letters to Brother Rigdon, which it seems he did
not get. Brother Samuel Bennett writes that Brother Rigdon left
Philadelphia for the Jerseys on the 5th instant. He [Rigdon] stated that
he expects me to come there to go with him home, and that he would write
me soon on the subject. I shall write for him to make the necessary
arrangements. He says Dr. Ell's family left about a week ago for Commerce.
Also that the Church there numbers about one hundred; and Parley P. Pratt,
Orson Pratt, Brother Kimball, Brother Brigham

	Young, George A. Smith, and Brother Hedlock were to sail from New
York to England on the 7th instant.

	As I have lately written several letters to you, I shall bid adieu,
not to write again until after the Senate acts upon our business. Mr.
Robinson says he has sent you a report; notwithstanding, I shall enclose
another for you.

	I have changed my place of boarding in consequence of Mrs. Richey's
breaking up house-keeping, and going to Baltimore. I am busy here at
chimney corner preaching. Yours as ever in the bonds of everlasting love,
ELIAS HIGBEE.

	To President Joseph Smith, Jun., Commerce, Illinois.

	P. S.--Lest my previous letters should not come to hand, I merely say
that I have been before the committee three days, and done all in my power
to effect the object of our mission; have spoken my mind freely on the
subject; and feel to have a conscience void of offense towards God in this
matter. The subscription of which the report makes mention, was on
condition that they could not lawfully do anything for us; after
examination we were to submit and wait until the Great Disposer of human
events shall adjust these things, in that place where the wicked cease
from troubling and the weary are at rest (this I think is nearly the
sentiment though perhaps not the very words); and I for one hope and pray
the time will soon come when they will not trouble us in the west as they
have hitherto done.

	There is a man here on whom I occasionally call, who owns two
printing presses and much type, reading our books, I will with the
assistance of God, get him to come to the west as soon as possible with
his press, that you may set him to printing the truth. He told me, if we
had any printing to do, he would do it cheap, and even go to the west if
necessary.

	Give my respects to Porter Rockwell, Dr. Foster, and also all the
household of faith. E. H.

	Friday, 13.---Jacob K. Potts and Levi Stilley made affidavit before
William Oglesby, J. P., that they witnessed the massacre at Haun's mill on
the 30th of October, 1838, confirming the statements already written in
this History. Potts had two balls shot into his right leg.

	Sunday, 15.---The High Council of the Church at Nauvoo voted that the
First Presidency superintend the affairs of the ferry between Nauvoo and
Montrose.

	Monday, 16.---Elder John Taylor wrote from Liverpool:

	Extract from Elder John Taylor's Letter---Affairs in British Mission.
I told you about our coming to Liverpool. The first time I preached came
forward [for baptism]. We have been baptizing since: last week we baptized
nine, we are to baptize tomorrow, but how many I know not. The little
stone is rolling forth. One of the brethren dreamed he saw two men come to
Liverpool; they cast a net into the sea and pulled it out full of fishes:
he was surprised to see them pick the small fish out first and then the
large. Well, if we get all the fish I shall be satisfied.

	Brother Woodruff has lately left the Potteries and has gone to
another neighborhood, and is making Methodist preachers scarce. He
baptized 32 persons in one week--13 of them were Methodist preachers.
Elder Clark is preaching and baptizing in and about Manchester. The latest
account from Elder Turley, he was well, preaching and baptizing in the
Potteries. Elder Willard Richards is very busy at this period, in visiting
and setting in order the branches of the Church in Preston, Clithero, and
all the regions round about, and holding correspondence with the Elders
abroad.

	The High Council met at my house in Nauvoo, and resolved that Robert
B. Thompson write a letter to Judge Higbee at Washington, approving his
course and giving him certain names (for which see Thompson's letter),
that he may order subpoenas for them as witnesses in the suit now before
Congress, namely, the Latter-day Saints versus the State of Missouri, for
redress of grievances.

	Letter of R. B. Thompson to Elias Higbee, Announcing the Approval of
the Church Authorities of the Latter's Course at Washington. NAUVOO,
HANCOCK COUNTY, ILLINOIS, March 17th, 1840. Elias Higbee, EsQ.

	DEAR AND HONORED SIR:---It is with the greatest pleasure I sit down
to write to you at this time, to inform you of the situation and state of
the Church as regards the object of your mission.

	Since President Joseph Smith returned we have been favored with
several communications from you, giving a statement of the proceedings
before the committee, etc. On Monday evening last, your letters were read
to a large concourse of our brethren, and other persons who were assembled
to hear the same; and I must say that the greatest satisfaction was
manifested by the assembled multitude, with the noble stand and
straightforward and honorable course which you had pursued; and before the
assembly separated, a vote of thanks to you was unanimously agreed upon. I
can assure you that, from the feelings there, as well as upon other
occasions, [expressed] there is not only a disposition, but a fixed
determination, to uphold you in your righteous cause and sustain you in
your efforts to obtain redress for the injuries which the Saints have
borne from their unfeeling oppressors, and in bringing their case before
the authorities of the nation.

	In the evening the High Council assembled at the house of President
Joseph Smith, Jun., and took your letters into consideration, when it was
unanimously resolved that a letter should be written to you approving the
measures which you were taking. The High Council likewise send you a list
of the names of such persons as they think will testify to such facts as
you want to substantiate. The names are as follows:

	Alanson Ripley, William Chapplin, Francis Higbee, Ira Mills, Lyman
Wight, Oliver Olney, Tarlton Lewis, Hyrum Smith, Edward Partridge, Seymour
Brunson, Parley P. Pratt, Samuel Bent, Thorit Parsons, Porter Rockwell,
King Follett, George A. Smith, Isaac Laney, Stephen Markham, Harvey
Redfield, Thomas Grover, Ellis Eames, Amanda Smith, Chapman Duncan, Lyman
Leonard, Smith Humphrey, Alma Smith, Erastus Snow, Zebediah Robinson, John
M. Burk, Orson Hyde, Rebecca Judd, Charles C. Rich, Heber C. Kimball,
Henry G. Sherwood, William Seyley, Elias Smith, Dr. Isaac Galland, Sidney
Rigdon.

	There probably may be others, who may occur to your mind, whom you
can send for if you think necessary. We should feel glad if you had the
assistance of Presidents Smith and Rigdon at this critical time, while you
have to contend with Jamieson, Linn [and others]. However I hope you will
go forth in the strength of the Lord, and that truth will prevail. And I
would say, "Twice is he armed who hath his quarrel just." The principles,
sir, for which you contend are true; they are principles of justice, of
humanity, of the Constitution, and the eternal principles of
righteousness.

	Although mankind may depart from those principles and be swayed by
popular prejudices, and undue influences; yet at the same time, that man
who contends for the same, although he cannot always carry his point, or
convince at all times partial and interested judges--the gem or light of
truth may be darkened, and its brilliancy for a while hide--yet when the
Son of Righteousness shall arise, and disperse the darkness and mist of
superstition and bigotry; when the true light shines, then shall it shine
with all its glorious splendor and shed forth its luster with a brilliancy
upon its advocates as shall altogether surpass the equipage and glories of
those who are now in power. ROBERT B. THOMPSON.

	Letter of Horace R. Hotchkiss to Sidney Rigdon and Joseph Smith,
Jun.--Inquiring Concerning the Progress Made Before Congress. FAIR HAVEN,
March 17th, 1840,

	Reverends Sidney Rigdon and Joseph Smith, Jun.: GENTLEMEN:--I some
time since addressed a letter to Mr. [Joseph] Smith at Philadelphia, to
which I have received no reply; and was in that city two or three weeks
ago, but not being able to hear anything of Mr. Smith, I suppose he must
of course have left; and with the hope of still reaching you, I now send
to Washington. I should have written you long before, and indeed very
often this winter, but my health has been miserable; and since my return
from Philadelphia, I have been confined to my house.

	I beg you to inform me how you are progressing with your petition
before Congress, and its probable result; whether you have any friends in
the House or in the Senate, who will bring forward your case, and advocate
it in sincerity, and persevere in your behalf with skill and ability until
something is accomplished. Milk and water friends in Congress are good for
nothing. They must be true, have talents, be zealous, or else they will be
detrimental rather than advantageous to you.

	Should you, gentlemen, and Judge Higbee, come as far east as this, it
will afford [me] much gratification to have you take up your quarters at
my house. I did intend to see you at Washington, but my health will not
now permit. With much respect, yours, HORACE R. HOTCHKISS.

	Sixth Letter of Elias Higbee to the Prophet---Affairs of the Saints
at Washington--Papers Withdrawn. WASHINGTON CITY, March 24th, 1840.

	DEAR BROTHER:---Our business is at last ended here. Yesterday a
resolution passed the Senate, that the committee should be discharged; and
that we might withdraw the accompanying papers, which I have done. I have
also taken a copy of the memorial, and want to be off for the west
immediately. I have not gotten a letter from President Rigdon, although I
have frequently written to him. I have received a letter from Brother
Bennett, stating that he was in the Jerseys, and that he was calculating
to have me come that way and go home with him; and also that he had
business which he wanted me to attend to at the office here. When he last
wrote, he stated that as yet he had no money to get home with, and I
hardly know what course to take in regard to the matter. If I do not
receive a letter in two or three days, I design leaving for Philadelphia
or the west.

	There is one honest Quaker-looking sort of a man here, by the name of
William Green, (instead of John Green, as I stated in a letter to Brother
Robinson), who has two iron printing presses, with other things necessary,
that would come to Commerce, provided you could find work for him, and
inform him of the same. How much work there is to do I know not; therefore
merely write that if such a man and establishment are wanted, you could
easily obtain them, or would know where they could be obtained. He
believes as much in our religion as any other, but not much in any. Yours
in the Lord, ELIAS HIGBEE.

	P.S.--I would just observe, that information has reached this place,
through some of the newspapers, that you have come out for Harrison. It is
said that the information came by some gentlemen who obtained it from you,
whilst in your company in passing through the state of Indiana. Another
paper states that 1,000 houses are to be built in Commerce this season,
which I hope is the truth.

	I would just observe (on the subject of our business) I am sorry
Judge Young had not insisted on the motion to print our papers, as it
would have been opposed; then a speech from Clay and Mr. Preston would
have been brought forth, as I have since learned: but I think it was a
trick of the Missouri Senators to slide it along without making a noise,
by its going to the committee as it did. Judge Young says he was anxious
to have it brought before the committee, but seemed disposed to let it
slide along easily, rather than run the risk of its being refused.

	If he had let those speeches been made, almost every one would have
read them; which would have shamed Missouri, (if there is any shame in
her), and waked up the whole country, so that by another year Congress
would do something for us. But there is no need of crying for spilt milk.
I have done all I could in this matter, depending on the good judgment of
Judge Young to legislate for us to the best advantage. I am inclined,
however, to think if it was an error, it was one of the head, and not of
the heart.

	Mr. Hotchkiss, of Fair Haven, Connecticut, has addressed a letter to
yourself, Brother Rigdon and myself, which seems to be written with much
good feeling. He desires to know concerning our business here, inviting us
to make his house our home, should we travel in that region. He writes
that his health is very bad. I have been talking with Mr. Steward
concerning a memorial, requesting him to bring it before the House; he has
promised to do so if he can. He says he will talk with some of the members
respecting it. I have answered Mr. Hotchkiss' letter this day, and sent
him the report of the committee. E. H.

	At this time the work of the Lord is spreading rapidly in the United
States and England---Elders are traveling in almost every direction, and
multitudes are being baptized.

	Letter of Horace R. Hotchkiss to Joseph Smith, Jun.--Offering Tract
of Land for Sale. FAIR HAVEN, 1st April, 1840. Reverend Joseph Smith,
Jun.:

	MY DEAR SIR:--After writing you at, and then going to, Philadelphia,
and not finding you, I addressed a letter to Washington City, and received
a reply from Judge Higbee, by which I first learned of your return to
Illinois; and at the same time I got the committee's report upon your
application to Congress for redress of the outrages perpetrated upon your
people by the Missourians. I am not, I must confess, much disappointed in
the result; as I know the vacillating, fawning character of many in both
houses of Congress; and these are not their worst traits either, for they
not only lack the moral courage to do right, but will do what they know to
be positively wrong, if they can make political capital by it; and will
abandon you, me, or any one else, with perfect indifference, and heartless
treachery, if by doing it they can obtain governmental favor, or political
preferment. If we should not put our faith in princes, it appears most
emphatically true that we should repose no confidence in politicians. The
idea conveyed in the report, that exact justice will be meted to you by
the judicial tribunals of Missouri, is too preposterous to require
comment. It is indeed a new doctrine, that we should apply to robbers, or
their supporters, to condemn themselves, to restore the valuables they
have stolen, and to betray each other for the murders they have committed.

	I do not believe (though I am sorry to say it) that you will ever
receive a just or honorable remuneration for your losses of property, or
any reparation for the personal indignities, privations and sufferings
which your people have sustained in Missouri. The greatest reliance you
have for regaining your wealth is in the honorable conduct of your
people--their pure morals--their correct habits--their indefatigable
industry--their untiring perseverance--and their well-directed enterprise.
These constitute a capital which can never be shaken by man, and form the
basis of all that is great in commercial influence, or in the attainment
of pecuniary power.

	Judge Higbee informs me that Mr. Rigdon is probably in New Jersey. It
would have afforded me much pleasure to have seen you all at my house, and
it was my intention to spend some time at Washington while you were there;
but my health has been so very infirm, that it has prevented me from
executing nearly all the arrangements I had proposed for myself for the
last eight months.

	Knowing the additions constantly joining your society, it has
occurred to me that some of them may be unprovided with farming lands, and
I mention at this time, that I am interested in a tract of about 12,000
acres of very choice lands, consisting of timber and prairie, fifteen or
twenty miles from Springfield, upon which Mr. Gillett and several other
families are settled and cultivating most excellent farms. It is one of
the best neighborhoods in the state.

	I do not know what my co-partners in this tract would say about
disposing of what remains unsold of the tract, (say eight to nine thousand
acres,) but I should be disposed to sell upon reasonable terms, provided
from twenty to forty families, valuable for their prudence, industry, and
good habits, from your society, can be found to form a small colony of
practical farmers. I am also interested with the same gentlemen in lands
near Rock River, in Henry and Mercer counties, and believe this would, on
many accounts, be another extremely desirable place or location for a
colony of your people. I have said nothing to those owning with me
relative to this subject, but suppose they would be governed materially by
two considerations; namely, the characters of the purchasers, and the fact
of their being actual settlers or not.

	If you think two small colonies of the right sort can be formed from
your society, you will oblige by informing me at your earliest
opportunity. The price of the balance in the tract near Springfield,
including an average proportion of timber, and an average proportion of
prairie,

	I should think $4.50 per acre. None of the prairie alone has been
sold for less than three dollars, and some at three and a half; and I am
confident that four and a half dollars for timber and prairie is very low,
and especially as a credit, except for a small amount, would be extended
to purchasers. The other tract is nearly all prairie, but the finest
selection of that region. It is probably worth three and a half dollars
per acre.

	As my paper is out, I have only room to request my respects presented
to all friends at Commerce. I beg you to tell the editor of the Times and
Seasons, that as soon as my health allows me to go to the bank, I shall
send him $10. Your obedient servant, HORACE R. HOTCHKISS.

	Letter of Sidney Rigdon to the Prophet. AT JAMES IVANS', NEW JERSEY,
April 3rd, 1840. Brother Joseph Smith, Jun.

	DEAR SIR:--I thought I would occupy a portion of this morning in
writing to you. By a letter received from Brother Higbee yesterday, I have
learned that the Senate has decided that they have no constitutional right
to interfere in the case between us and the people of Missouri; and refer
us to the courts for redress; either those of Missouri or the United
States. Now I am confident, that there is but one person in Missouri that
we can sue with safety, and that is Boggs, and he is known to be a
bankrupt, and unable to pay his debts; that if we should sue him, we will
have the cost to pay, as he has nothing to pay it with. We are therefore
left to bear the loss without redress, at present.

	Judge Higbee is on the way home, and has been for ten days. He
obtained money from Judge Young, to what amount I cannot say, but he will
be able to tell you when he gets home. The Judge continues his friendship,
and is ready to accommodate with money, whenever called for. Surely he is
a friend indeed, and ought never to be forgotten.

	I am up to this time without means to get home, but I have no
uneasiness about it. I shall doubtless get means as soon as my health will
admit of my going. My health is slowly improving, and I think if I have no
relapse, I will be able to leave for home some time in the month of May,
&c. SIDNEY RIGDON.

	Monday, April 6.---Elders Young, Kimball, Pratt, Smith, and Hedlock
landed in Liverpool, on the first day of the eleventh year of the Church,
after a tedious passage of twenty-eight days, during sixteen of which they
encountered head winds, and one severe storm of three or four days; and a
great portion of the time the decks were covered with water---all of which
tended to increase sea-sickness and suffering.

	At the time of sailing President Young's and Elder Kimball's health
was very poor. George A. Smith had the ague for six days in succession.
When the ship left her moorings the shore resounded with the songs of the
Saints, who had come down to bid them farewell; they unitedly sang "The
gallant ship is under weigh," until out of hearing. The brethren occupied
three berths in the forecastle, taking what was called a steerage passage.
With the exception of Elder Kimball, not one of them had ever been to sea,
and the sailors called them "land lubbers." The ship being loaded with
flour and cotton, they were packed in a small compartment with about 100
or 120 passengers, being a motley mixture of English, Welsh, Irish, and
Scotch, who were returning home from America to visit their friends, or
had got sick of "Yankeedom" and were leaving for "sweet home."

	They had scarcely been at sea twelve hours before the whole of them
were prostrated by sea-sickness. George A. Smith vomited up his ague.
Brother Brigham Young, although confined to his berth by sea--sickness
during the entire journey, was unable to vomit.

	On coming into the Mersey the ship cast anchor in order to wait for
the tide, when a small boat put off from the shore. Brothers Young,
Kimball, and Parley P. Pratt went in it to the landing. On reaching the
quay, Brother Young shouted hosannah three times, which he had promised to
do whenever he should land on the shores of Old England. The brethren then
went to No. 8 Union Street, Liverpool, where they procured bread and wine
in order to partake of the Sacrament.

	Elders Orson Pratt and George A. Smith, and Reuben Hedlock stayed on
board to look after the baggage. About three p.m., Brother Young sent a
small boat for them, and the boatmen piloted them to the same place, where
they all met together, partook of the Sacrament, and returned thanks for
their safe deliverance.

	When they landed they were almost penniless. Two or three of them had
sufficient to buy hats for those who needed them the worst.

	Minutes of the General Conference of the Church. At a General
Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, held in
Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, on the sixth day of April, A.D. 1840,
agreeable to previous appointment, Joseph Smith, Jun., was called upon to
preside over the meeting, and Robert B. Thompson was chosen clerk.

	The Conference was then opened by prayer by Elder John E. Page.

	The President rose, made some observations on the business of the
Conference, exhorted the brethren who had charges to make against
individuals, and made some very appropriate remarks respecting the pulling
the beam out of their own eye, that they may see more clearly the mote
which was in their brother's eye.

	A letter was read from presidents of the Seventies, wishing for an
explanation of the steps, which the High Council had taken, in removing
Elder F. G. Bishop from the quorum of the Seventies to that of the High
Priests, without any other ordination than he had when in the Seventies,
and wished to know whether those ordained into the Seventies at the same
time F. G. Bishop was, had a right to the High Priesthood, or not. After
observations on the case by different individuals, the president gave a
statement of the authority of the Seventies, and stated that they were
Elders and not High Priests, and consequently Brother F. G. Bishop had no
claim to that office. It was then unanimously resolved that Elder F. G.
Bishop be placed back again into the quorum of the Seventies.

	On motion, resolved that the Conference adjourn until two o'clock.

	Conference met pursuant to adjournment. Prayer by Elder Joseph Young.

	Elder Thomas Grover presented charges against Brother D. W. Rogers
for compiling a hymn book, and selling it as the one compiled and
published by Sister Emma Smith; secondly, for writing a private letter to
New York City, casting reflections on the character of Elder John P.
Greene; and thirdly, for administering medicine unskilfully, which had a
bad effect.

	On motion, resolved, that, as Brother Rogers is not present, his case
be laid over until tomorrow.

	Elder John Lawson then came forward and stated, that in consequence
of some difficulty existing in the branch of the Church where he resided,
respecting the Word of Wisdom, fellowship had been withdrawn from him, and
also from Brother Thomas S. Edwards. After hearing the particulars, on
motion, resolved, that John Lawson and Thomas S. Edwards be restored to
fellowship.

	Elder Orson Hyde addressed the Conference at some length, and stated
that it had been prophesied, some years ago, that he had a great work to
perform among the Jews; and that he had recently been moved upon by the
Spirit of the Lord to visit that people, and gather up all the information
he could respecting their movements, expectations, &c., and communicate
the same to this Church, and to the nation at large; stating that he
intended to visit the Jews in New York, London, and Amsterdam, and then
visit Constantinople and the Holy land.

	On motion, resolved, that Elder Orson Hyde proceed on his mission to
the Jews, and that letters of recommendation be given him, signed by the
President and Clerk of the Conference.

	Elder John E. Page then arose, and spoke with much force on the
subject of Elder Hyde's mission, the gathering of the Jews, and the
restoration of the house of Israel; proving, in a brief but convincing
manner, from the Bible, Book of Mormon, and the Book of Doctrine and
Covenants, that these things must take place, and that the time had nearly
arrived for their accomplishment.

	Adjourned until tomorrow morning, nine o'clock.

	Tuesday morning, April 7.

	Conference met pursuant to adjournment. A hymn was sung by the choir,
and the throne of grace was addressed by Elder Caleb Baldwin.

	Brother D. W. Rogers' case was then called up, and after many
observations and explanations, it was on motion resolved, that D. W.
Rogers be forgiven, and the hand of fellowship be continued towards him.

	Conference adjourned for one hour, and met pursuant to adjournment. A
hymn was sung by the choir, followed by prayer by Elder Reynolds Cahoon.

	The President called upon the Clerk to read the report of the First
Presidency and High Council, with regard to their proceedings in
purchasing lands, and securing a place of gathering for the Saints. The
report having been read, the President made some observations respecting
the pecuniary affairs of the Church, and requested the brethren to step
forward, and assist in liquidating the debts on the town plot, so that the
poor might have an inheritance.

	The President then gave an account of their mission to Washington
City, the treatment they received, and the action of the Senate on the
Memorial which was presented before them. The meeting then called for the
reading of the Memorial, and the report of the Committee on Judiciary, to
whom the same was referred, which were read.

	On motion, resolved that a committee of five be appointed to draft
resolutions expressive of the sentiments of this Conference in reference
to the report. On motion it was resolved, that Robert D. Foster, Orson
Hyde, John E. Page, Joseph Wood, and Robert B. Thompson compose said
committee, and report to this Conference.

	Resolved, that this meeting adjourn until tomorrow morning.

	Wednesday morning, April 8.

	Conference met pursuant to adjournment. A number were confirmed who
had been baptized the previous evening. Prayer by Elder Marks.

	The Committee appointed to draft resolutions on the report of the
Senate Committee of the Judiciary were then called upon to make their
report. Robert B. Thompson of the Committee then read the Resolutions :

	Whereas, we learn, with deep sorrow, regret, and disappointment, that
the Committee on the Judiciary to whom was referred the Memorial of the
members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (commonly
called "Mormons"), complaining of the grievances suffered by them in the
state of Missouri, have reported unfavorably to our cause, to justice, and
humanity;

	Therefore Resolved 1st: That we consider the report of the Committee
on Judiciary, unconstitutional, and subversive to the rights of a free
people, and justly calls for the disapprobation of all the supporters and
lovers of good government and republican principles.

	Resolved, 2ndly: That the Committee state, in their report, that our
Memorial aggravates the case of our oppressors, and at the same time say,
that they have not examined into the truth or falsehood of the facts
mentioned in said Memorial.

	Resolved, 3rdly: That the Memorial does not aggravate the conduct of
our oppressors, as every statement set forth in said Memorial was
substantiated by indubitable testimony; therefore we consider the
statements of the Committee, in regard to that part, as false and
ungenerous.

	Resolved, 4thly: That that part of the report referring us to the
justice and magnanimity of the state of Missouri for redress, we deem it a
great insult to our good sense, better judgment, and intelligence, when
numerous affidavits, which were laid before the Committee, prove that we
could only go into the state of Missouri contrary to the exterminating
order of the Governor, and consequently at the risk of our lives.

	Resolved, 5thly: That after repeated appeals to the constituted
authorities of the state of Missouri for redress, which were in vain, we
fondly hoped that in the Congress of the United States, ample justice
would have been rendered us; and upon that consideration alone, we pledged
ourselves to abide their decision.

	Resolved, 6thly: That the exterminating order of Governor Boggs is a
direct infraction of the Constitution of the United States, and of the
state of Missouri; and the committee in refusing to investigate the
proceedings of the Executive and others of the state of Missouri, and
turning a deaf ear to the cries of widows, orphans, and innocent blood, we
deem no less than seconding the proceeding of that murderous clan, whose
deeds are recorded in heaven, and justly call down upon their heads the
righteous judgments of an offended God.

	Resolved, 7thly: That the thanks of this meeting be tendered to the
citizens of the state of Illinois, for their kind, liberal, and generous
conduct towards us; and that we call upon them, as well as every patriot
in this vast Republic, to aid us in all lawful endeavors to obtain redress
for the injuries we have sustained.

	Resolved, 8thly: That the thanks of this meeting be tendered to the
delegation of Illinois, for the bold, manly, noble, and independent course
they have taken in presenting our case before the nation, amid
misrepresentation, contumely, and abuse, which were heaped upon us in our
suffering condition.

	Resolved, 9thly: That the thanks of this meeting be tendered to
Governor Carlin of Illinois, Governor Lucas of Iowa Territory, for their
sympathy, aid, and protection; and to all other honorable gentlemen who
have assisted us in our endeavors to obtain redress.

	Resolved, 10thly: That Joseph Smith, Jun., Sidney Rigdon, and Elias
Higbee, the Delegates appointed by this Church to visit the City of
Washington, to present our sufferings before the authorities of the
nation, be tendered the thanks of this meeting for the prompt and
efficient manner in which they have discharged their duty; and that they
be requested, in behalf of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints
throughout the world, to continue to use their endeavors to obtain redress
for a suffering people. And if all hopes of obtaining satisfaction for the
injuries done us be entirely blasted, that they then appeal our case to
the Court of Heaven, believing that the Great Jehovah, who rules over the
destiny of nations, and who notices the falling sparrows, will undoubtedly
redress our wrongs, and ere long avenge us of our adversaries.

	On motion, Resolved, That the report of the committee on the
Judiciary, as well as the foregoing Preamble and Resolutions, be published
in the Quincy papers.

	On motion, Resolved, That a committee of three be appointed to
investigate the recommendations of those persons who wish to obtain an
ordination to the ministry, and ordain such as are thought worthy; and
that Elders Bent, Wood, and Hyde compose said committee.

	Resolved, That this meeting feel satisfied with the proceeding of the
Presidency with regard to the sales of town property, &c., and that they
are requested to continue in their agency.

	Resolved, That this meeting adjourn for one hour. Conference met
pursuant to adjournment.

	After singing the President arose and read the 3rd chapter of John's
Gospel, after which, prayer was offered by Elder Erastus Snow.

	The President commenced making observations on the different subjects
embraced in the chapter [previously read] particularly the 3rd, 4th, and
5th verses, illustrating them with a very beautiful and striking figure,
and throwing a flood of light on the subjects brought up to review. He
then spoke to the Elders respecting their mission, and advised those who
went into the world to preach the Gospel, to leave their families provided
with the necessaries of life; and to teach the gathering as set forth in
the Holy Scripture. That it had been wisdom for the most of the Church to
keep on this side of the river, that a foundation might be established in
this place; but that now it was the privilege of the Saints to occupy the
lands in Iowa, or wherever the Spirit might lead them. That he did not
wish to have any political influence, but wished the Saints to use their
political franchise to the best of their knowledge.

	He then stated that since Elder Hyde had been appointed to visit the
Jews, he had felt an impression that it would be well for Elder John E.
Page to accompany him on his mission. It was resolved that Elder John E.
Page be appointed to accompany Elder Orson Hyde on his mission, and that
he have proper credentials given him.

	It was then resolved, that as a great part of the time of the
Conference had been taken up with charges against individuals, which might
have been settled by the different authorities of the Church, that in
future no such cases be brought before the Conferences.

	The Committee on ordinations reported that they had ordained
thirty-one persons to be Elders in the Church, who were ordained under the
hands of Alpheus Gifford and Stephen Perry, which report was accepted.

	Fredrick G. Williams presented himself on the stand, and humbly asked
forgiveness for his conduct, [while in Missouri], and expressed his
determination to do the will of God in the future. His case was presented
to the Conference by President Hyrum Smith, when it was unanimously

	Resolved, That Fredrick G. Williams be forgiven, and be received into
the fellowship of the Church.

	It was reported that seventy-five persons had been baptized during
the Conference, and that upwards of fifty had been received into the
quorum of Seventies.

	President Hyrum Smith dismissed the assembly. After he had made a few
observations, the Conference was closed, under the blessings of the
Presidency, until the first Friday in October next. JOSEPH SMITH, JUN.,
President.


                               CHAPTER VI. 
            DEVELOPMENT OF THE WORK IN ENGLAND--THE PALESTINE 
        MISSION--POST-OFFICE NAME CHANGED FROM COMMERCE TO NAUVOO.

	April 7.--The brethren [President Brigham Young, et al.] found Elder
John Taylor, who, in company with Joseph Fielding, had recently built up a
branch of twenty-eight members in Liverpool.

	April 8.--President Brigham Young and company went to Elder
Richards', at Preston, by railway; when they arrived there, they had not a
single sixpence left. So emaciated was President Young at this time from
his long sickness, and journey, that when Elder Richards returned home
this day from a mission to Clitheroe, and found him in his room, he did
not know him.

	Letter of Hon. Richard M. Young to Elias Higbee. WASHINGTON CITY,
April 9, 1840. Judge Elias Higbee:

	DEAR SIR:--Having a private opportunity, by Judge Snow, of Quincy, I
have sent you two receipts, one for $50, and the other for $90, making
together $140, to Mr. E. I. Philips, cashier of the branch of the State
Bank of Illinois, at Quincy. When it is convenient for you to make
payment, will you have the goodness to send the money to Mr. Philips, who
is instructed to receive it, and apply it towards the payment of a note of
mine in that bank.

	I received a letter from Mr. Rigdon a few days ago. It was mailed in
Philadelphia, but was dated on the inside in New Jersey. His health is
gradually but slowly improving, and he thinks he will set out for home
some time in May. He wished a small sum of money, $40, deposited in one of
the banks here, for a gentleman in Buffalo, New York, which I have
attended to according to his direction and request. I also informed him,
if he stood in need of more, to call on me and it would give me pleasure
to accommodate him; so you need not be uneasy on that score.

	Nothing new has transpired since you left us, with the exception of
the death of one of the Connecticut Senators, Mr. Thadeus Betts, who died
yesterday. His funeral took place today, hence no business was transacted
in the Senate. We have also lost the Cumberland Road Bill by a final vote
in the Senate, 20 voting for and 22 against it; one single vote from the
majority would have saved it, by making a tie. The Vice-President was
exceedingly anxious for the opportunity of getting the casting vote in its
favor, Mr. Clay, of Kentucky, made a speech against and voted throughout
against it. Grundy, of Tennessee, Wright of New York, and Buchanan of
Pennsylvania, three of the leading Democrats in the Senate voted for it.
There were but seven Whigs who voted for it, and thirteen Democrats. I
think we will adjourn about the first or second Monday in June.

	I received from Mr. Rigdon the Petition and papers in relation to a
change of postmaster at Commerce, with an affidavit from Doctor Galland,
all of which have been laid before the proper department. As soon as I get
an answer, it shall be communicated to you. Don't forget to have the Times
and Seasons sent to me. Give my respects to Rev. Joseph Smith, and accept
for yourself my best wishes for your happiness. Yours, etc., RICHARD M.
YOUNG.

	In the Times and Seasons of this month is a prospectus for publishing
at Nauvoo, a weekly paper, to be called The News.

	Orson Hyde's Credentials as a Missionary to Palestine. To all people
unto whom these presents shall come, Greeting--

	Be it known that we, the constituted authorities of the Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, assembled in Conference at Nauvoo,
Hancock county, and state of Illinois, on the sixth day of April, in the
year of our Lord, one thousand eight hundred and forty, considering an
important event at hand, an event involving the interest and fate of the
Gentile nations throughout the world--from the signs of the times and from
declarations contained in the oracles of God, we are forced to come to
this conclusion. The Jewish nations have been scattered abroad among the
Gentiles for a long period; and in our estimation, the time of the
commencement of their return to the Holy Land has already arrived. As this
scattered and persecuted people are set among the Gentiles as a sign unto
them of the second coming of the Messiah, and also of the overthrow of the
present kingdoms and governments of the earth, by the potency of His
Almighty arm in scattering famine and pestilence like the frosts and snows
of winter, and sending the sword with nation against nation to bathe it in
each other's blood; it is highly important, in our opinion, that the
present views and movements of the Jewish people be sought after and laid
before the American people, for their consideration, their profit and
their learning.

	And feeling it to be our duty to employ the most efficient means in
our power to save the children of men from "the abomination that maketh
desolate," we have, by the counsel of the Holy Spirit, appointed Eider
Orson Hyde, the bearer of these presents, a faithful and worthy minister
of Jesus Christ, to be our Agent and Representative in foreign lands, to
visit the cities of London, Amsterdam, Constantinople, and Jerusalem; and
also other places that he may deem expedient; and converse with the
priests, rulers, and elders of the Jews, and obtain from them all the
information possible, and communicate the same to some principal paper for
publication, that it may have a general circulation throughout the United
States.

	As Mr. Hyde has willingly and cheerfully accepted the appointment to
become our servant and the servant of the public in distant and foreign
countries, for Christ's sake, we do confidently recommend him to all
religious and Christian people, and to gentlemen and ladies making no
profession, as a worthy member of society, possessing much zeal to promote
the happiness of mankind, fully believing that they will be forward to
render him all the pecuniary aid he needs to accomplish this laborious and
hazardous mission for the general good of the human family.

	Ministers of every denomination upon whom Mr. Hyde shall call, are
requested to hold up his hands, and aid him by their influence, with an
assurance that such as do this shall have the prayers and blessings of a
poor and afflicted people, whose blood has flowed to test the depths of
their sincerity and to crimson the face of freedom's soil with martyr's
blood.

	Mr. Hyde is instructed by this Conference to transmit to this country
nothing but simple facts for publication, entirely disconnected with any
peculiar views of theology, leaving each class to make their own comments
and draw their own inferences.

	Given under our hands at the time and place before mentioned. JOSEPH
SMITH, Jun., Chairman. ROBERT B. THOMPSON, Clerk.

	Sunday, 12.--Several of the Twelve bore their public testimony to the
Gospel in the Cock Pit, Preston.

	The High Council of Nauvoo met at my house, when I proposed that
Brother Hyrum Smith go east with Oliver Granger to settle some business
transactions of the Church which the Council sanctioned ; and voted, "that
President Joseph Smith, Jun., make the necessary credentials for Oliver
Granger and Hyrum Smith."

	Monday, 13.--From the second of October, 1839, to this date, there
have been one hundred and forty-five shocks of earthquake in Scotland,
reported by Mr. Milne to the Royal Society of Edinburgh. Some of these
shocks were sufficient to alter the natural levels of the ground more than
two degrees, and some witnesses thought four degrees, and caused houses to
rock like boats on the sea.

	Tuesday, 14.--A council of the Twelve, namely, Brigham Young, Heber
C. Kimball, Parley P. Pratt, Orson Pratt, Wilford Woodruff, George A.
Smith and John Taylor, was held at the house of Elder Willard Richards, in
Preston, England, when the latter was ordained to the
Apostleship,--agreeably to the revelation,--by President Young, under the
hands of the quorum present. Other business was transacted, as also on the
following days, all of which may be seen by reference to President Young's
letter of the 17th instant.

	Wednesday, 15.--Elder Orson Hyde left Commerce for Jerusalem.

	Thursday, 16.--Elder Orson Hyde met with John E. Page at Lima.

	Letter of Heber C. Kimball to the Saints of the United
States--Affairs of the British Mission. PRESTON, ENGLAND, April 17, 1840.
To the Saints in the United States of America: For the comfort of the
Church in general, in that country, I attempt to address a few lines to
you, to let you know where we are, and what we are doing in this country.

	The work of the Lord is progressing here, and has been ever since
Elders Orson Hyde and H. C. Kimball left this country. According to the
account that the Elders give of their labors, there have been about eight
or nine hundred persons baptized since they left. The Gospel is spreading,
the devils are roaring. As nigh as I can learn, the priests are howling,
the tares are binding up, the wheat is gathering, nations are trembling,
and kingdoms tottering; "men's hearts failing them for fear, and for
looking for those things that are coming on the earth." The poor among men
are rejoicing in the Lord, and the meek do increase their joy. The hearts
of the wicked do wax worse and worse, deceiving and being deceived.

	But I rejoice that I am counted worthy to be one of the number to
carry salvation to the poor and meek of the earth. Brethren, I want to say
many things, but I shall not have room on this paper, as I design giving
the minutes of our conference below.

	After a long and tedious voyage of 28 days on the water, we landed in
Liverpool, Elders Heber C. Kimball, Parley P. Pratt, Orson Pratt, George
A. Smith, Reuben Hedlock, were in the company. We rejoiced in the Lord,
and when we cast our minds upon the Saints in that country, [the United
States] we could, by faith participate in their joys, realizing they were
met in conference, it being the 6th day of April. We soon found a room
that we could have to ourselves, which made our solemn assembly glorious.
We blest each other and prepared for our labor. The next day we found
Elder Taylor in the city. There had been about thirty baptized. On
Wednesday went to Preston; met with the church on Sunday, and bore
testimony to the things the Lord is doing in these last day's. President
Joseph Fielding gave out an appointment for a conference for the church on
Wednesday, the 15th.

	At a council of the Twelve, held in Preston, England, on the 14th of
April, 1840, it being the 9th day of the 1st month of the 11th year of the
rise of the Church of Jesus Christ, Elders Brigham Young, Heber C.
Kimball, Parley P. Pratt, Orson Pratt, Wilford Woodruff, John Taylor and
George A. Smith, being present, Elder Brigham Young was called to preside,
and Elder John Taylor chosen secretary.

	The council was opened by prayer by Elder Brigham Young. Elder
Willard Richards was ordained to the office of an Apostle, and received
into the quorum of the Twelve by unanimous vote, according to previous
revelation. Elder Brigham Young was unanimously chosen as the President of
the Twelve.

	Resolved, that he who acts as the secretary of the quorum, shall
prepare the minutes of the conference of the quorum, and deposit them in
the hands of the president for keeping.

	Moved by Elder Kimball, and seconded by Elder Richards, that twenty
of the Seventies be sent for, and that it be left discretionary with the
President of the Twelve to send for more if he think proper. Conference
adjourned. Benediction by Elder Kimball.

	At a general conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints, held in the Temperance Hall, Preston, Lancashire, England, on the
15th of April, 1840, President Joseph Fielding called upon Elder Kimball
to preside, and Elder William Clayton was chosen clerk, it being the 10th
day of the 1st month of the 11th year of the rise of the Church

	The meeting was opened by singing, and prayer by Elder Kimball. Elder
Kimball then called upon the Elders to represent the different branches of
the Church. Elder Joseph Fielding represented the church in Preston,
consisting of about three hundred members, seven Elders, eight Priests,
six Teachers, and two Deacons. Elder Peter Melling represented the church
in Penworthan, consisting of seventy-three members, three Elders, one
Priest, two Teachers. John Jackson represented the church at Southport,
consisting of twenty members, one Priest, and one Teacher. Eider John Moon
represented the church at Danbers Lane, and neighborhood--members
generally in good standing consisting of fifty-four members, one Elder,
two Priests, three Teachers. Richard Benson, represented the church at
Hunter's Hill and neighborhood, consisting of seventeen members, one
Elder, one Priest, one Teacher.

	Elder Amos Fielding, represented the church at Bolton, consisting of
sixty members, one Elder, two Priests, two Teachers. Elder Amos Fielding
represented the church at Heskin, consisting of three members, one Elder.
Elder Amos Fielding represented the Church at Radcliff, consisting of ten
members. Elder Withnal represented the church at Whittle, consisting of
eighteen members, one Elder, four Priests. Elder Francis Clark represented
the church at Ribchester, consisting of twenty-five members, two Elders,
one Priest. Elder Thomas Richardson represented the church at Burnley,
consisting of twenty four members, generally in good standing, one Priest,
one Teacher. Elder Francis Moon represented the church at Blackburn,
consisting of fifteen members, one priest. Elder James Smithies
represented the church at Chardgley and Thornley, consisting of
twenty-nine members, two Elders, one Priest, one Teacher, one Deacon.

	Priest John Ellison represented the church at Waddington, consisting
of fifty members, two Priests, two Teachers, one Deacon. Elder Thomas
Smith represented the church at Clitheroe, consisting of twenty-seven
members, one Elder, three Priests. Elder Thomas Smith represented the
church at Catburn, consisting of eighty-four members, one Elder, two
Priests, two Teachers, one Deacon. Elder Thomas Smith represented the
church at Downham, consisting of twenty members, one Teacher, one Deacon.

	Elder Thomas Smith represented the church at Gridleton, consisting of
five members. Elder William Clayton represented the church at Manchester,
consisting of two hundred and forty members, three Elders, five Priests,
four Teachers, one Deacon. Elder William Clayton represented the church at
Stockport, consisting of forty members, one Priest, two Teachers, one
Deacon. Elder William Clayton represented the church at Peover and
Macclesfield, consisting of thirty members, three Priests. Elder William
Clayton represented the church at Duckinfield, consisting of thirty
members, one Priest. Elder William Clayton represented the church at
Altrincham, consisting of eight members, one Priest, one Teacher. Elder
William Clayton represented the church at Middlewich, consisting of six
members.

	Elder David Wilding represented the church at Bury and Elton,
consisting of twelve members. Elder Wilford Woodruff represented the
church in the Potteries, consisting of one hundred and one members, one
Elder, two Priests, four Teachers, one Deacon. Elder Wilford Woodruff
represented the church at Herefordshire, consisting of one hundred and
sixty members, one Elder, two Priests; about forty of them were Methodist
preachers of the United Brethren.

	Elder John Taylor represented the church at Liverpool, consisting of
twenty-eight members. Elder Joseph Fielding represented the church at
Alston, Cumberland, consisting of forty members, two Elders, two Priests,
two Teachers. Elder Willard Richards represented the church at Brampton,
consisting of thirty members, one Elder, one Priest. Elder Willard
Richards represented the church at Redford, consisting of forty members,
one Elder, one Priest. Elder Willard Richards represented the church at
Scotland, consisting of twenty-one members, three Elders.

	The meeting was then adjourned for one hour. The conference again
assembled at half-past one o'clock. Meeting opened by prayer, and business
commenced.

	Elder John Moon represented the church at Layland Moss, consisting of
six members, one Priest.

	Elder Willard Richards having been previously ordained into the
quorum of the Twelve, according to previous revelation, it was moved by
Elder Young, and seconded by Elder Taylor, that Elder Hyrum Clark be
appointed as a counselor to Elder Fielding, in the place of Elder
Richards; carried unanimously.

	Moved by Elder Fielding, seconded by Elder Young, that a hymnbook
should be published; carried. Moved and seconded, that the publishing of
the hymn book shall be done by the direction of the Twelve; carried.

	Moved and seconded that a monthly periodical shall be published under
the direction and superintendence of the Twelve, for the benefit and
information of the Church, as soon as a sufficient number of subscribers
shall be obtained; carried.

	Moved and seconded that Brother John Blazard, of Samsbury, be
ordained to the office of a Priest; carried.

	Moved and seconded that Brother James Cobridge, of Thornley, he
ordained to the office of Priest; carried.

	Elder Kimball then laid before the conference the importance and
propriety of ordaining a Patriarch to bestow patriarchal blessings on the
fatherless, &c.; referred to the Twelve, whose business it is to select
one, and ordain him according to the directions of the Spirit.

	After various remarks and addresses given by the Elders, President
Fielding and his counselors proceeded to ordain Brothers Blazard and
Cobridge to their offices, as stated above.

	Elder Kimball then called upon the clerk to read over the minutes of
the conference, which being done, they were received by the unanimous
voice of the conference.

	Moved by Elder Young, and seconded by Elder Parley P. Pratt, that
this conference be adjourned until the 6th of July next, to be held in
Preston, at 10 o'clock a.m.; carried. Meeting then adjourned. H. C.
KIMBALL, President. WM. CLAYTON, Clerk.

	Council Meeting of the Twelve in England--Hymn book and the
"Millennial Star" Projected. The Council met pursuant to adjournment,
April 16th, 1840. The number of the quorum the same as on the 14th.

	Moved by Elder Young, seconded by Elder Taylor, that Elder Parley P.
Pratt be chosen as the editor of the monthly periodical for the Church.

	Moved by Elder Kimball, seconded by Parley P. Pratt, that a committee
of three be appointed to make a selection of hymns.

	Moved by Elder Orson Pratt, and seconded by Elder Wilford Woodruff,
that Elders Brigham Young, Parley P. Pratt, and John Taylor form the
committee for that purpose.

	Moved by Elder Willard Richards, seconded by Elder George A. Smith,
that the name of the paper or periodical be the Latter-day Saints
Millennial Star.

	Moved by Elder Brigham Young, seconded by Elder Orson Pratt, that the
size of the paper, its plan, and price be left at the disposal of the
editor.

	Moved by Elder Brigham Young, seconded by Elder Heber C. Kimball,
that the Saints receive a recommend to the Church in America to move in
small or large bodies, inasmuch as they desire to emigrate to that new
country.

	Moved by Elder Brigham Young, seconded by Parley P. Pratt, that we
recommend no one to go to America that has money, without assisting the
poor according to our counsel from time to time.

	Moved by Elder John Taylor, seconded by Elder Parley P. Pratt, that
the copyright of the Book of Doctrine and Covenants and the Book of Mormon
be secured as quick as possible.

	Moved by Eider Woodruff, seconded by Elder Willard Richards, that
Elders Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, and Parley P. Pratt be the
committee to secure the copyright.

	Moved by Elder Heber C. Kimball, and seconded by Elder Willard
Richards, that Elder Peter Melling be ordained an evangelical minister
[Patriarch] in Preston.

	Moved by Elder Heber C. Kimball, that the Twelve meet here on the 6th
of July next, seconded by Elder Wilford Woodruff; and carried.

	Moved by Elder Willard Richards, and seconded by Elder Wilford
Woodruff, that the editor of the periodical keep an account of all the
receipts and expenditures connected with the printing, general expense.
&c., and the books at all times be open for the inspection of the Council.

	The above resolutions were unanimously adopted. The conference closed
by prayer. JOHN TAYLOR, Clerk. Letter of Brigham Young to the Prophet. To
President Joseph Smith and Counselors:

	DEAR BRETHREN:--You no doubt will have the perusal of this letter,
and minutes of our conference; this will give you an idea of what we are
doing in this country. If you see anything in or about the whole affair,
that is not right, I ask, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, that you
would make known unto us the mind of the Lord, and His will concerning us.
I believe that I am as willing to do the will of the Lord, and take
counsel of my brethren, and be a servant of the Church, as ever I was in
my life; but I can tell you, I would like to be with my old friends; I
like new friends, but I cannot part with my old ones for them.

	Concerning the hymn book--when we arrived here, we found the brethren
had laid by their old hymn books, and they wanted new ones; for the Bible,
religion, and all is new to them. When I came to learn more about carrying
books into the states, or bringing them here, I found the duties were so
high that we never should want to bring books from the states.

	I request one favor of you, that is, a letter from you, that I may
hear from my friends. I trust that I will remain your friend through life
and inn eternity. As ever. BRIGHAM YOUNG

	April 17.--This day the Twelve blessed and drank a bottle of wine at
Penworthan, made by Mother Moon forty years before. Held a Council at her
house in the evening, and ordained Peter Melling, Patriarch.

	The following is the aggregate number of churches, official and
private members represented at the above Conferences, held in Preston,
England: Elders, 36; Priests, 54; Teachers, 36; Deacons, 11; members,
1,686; all contained in 34 branches.

	Saturday, 18.--Elders Young, Woodruff, and George A. Smith went to
Burslem, and Elders Kimball and Richards to Chaidgley.

	Sunday, 19.--The High Council voted to meet at my office every
Saturday at two in the afternoon.

	Monday, 20.--Elders Young and Woodruff went to Wolverhampton.  About
this time Elder Orson Pratt went to Edinburgh, Scotland. Elder Taylor
returned to Liverpool.

	Letter of Robert Johnstone to Senator Young--Postoffice Name Changed
from Commerce to Nauvoo.

	POSTOFFICE DEPARTMENT, APPOINTMENT OFFICE, 21st April, 1840. SIR:--I
have the honor to inform you, that the Postmaster General has this day
changed the name of the postoffice at Commerce, Hancock county, Illinois,
to "Nauvoo," and appointed George W. Robinson postmaster thereof. Very
respectfully, your obedient servant, ROBERT JOHNSTONE, Second Assistant
Postmaster General.

	To the Hon. Richard M. Young, U.S. Senate. Elders Young and Woodruff
visited the old cathedral at Worcester on their way to Ledbury, where they
arrived this night.

	Letter of Senator Young to Judge Elias Higbee--Postoffice Name, etc.
WASHINGTON CITY, April 22, 1840. DEAR SIR:--After your departure from this
city, I received, under cover from the Reverend Sidney Rigdon, the
petition mentioned by you, for the appointment of George W. Robinson as
postmaster at Commerce. This petition I laid before the Honorable Robert
Johnstone, second assistant postmaster general, who has appointed Mr.
Robinson as requested.

	We found, on examination of the papers, and a letter from Dr. Gallad,
that there was a request that the name of the postoffice should be changed
to that of Nauvoo, a Hebrew term, signifying a beautiful place. Mr.
Johnstone, at my instance, has changed the name accordingly, in the
supposition that it would be agreeable to the citizens concerned. Will you
please advise with the Rev. Joseph Smith and others most immediately
interested, and if the change of the name to Nauvoo should not be
acceptable, it can on application be restored to that of Commerce.

	I received a letter from Malcolm McGregor, Esq., postmaster at
Carthage, a few days ago, in which he urges the necessity of having the
Mail carried twice a week, between Carthage and Nauvoo, and expresses the
opinion that the additional expenses would not exceed one hundred and
fifty dollars, as the mail is carried on horseback. I have brought the
subject before the proper department as requested by Mr. McGregor, and
hope to be able to succeed; although the Postoffice Department, owing to
pecuniary embarrassment, is not in a situation to extend facilities at the
present time.

	Please present my respects to Mr. Smith, and accept for yourself my
kindest regards. Very respectfully, &c., RICHARD M. YOUNG. To Judge Elias
Higbee.

	Wednesday, 22.--Elders Young and Woodruff organized a branch of the
Church at Frooms Hill, Herefordshire.

	Thursday, 23.--Elders Kimball and Richards returned to Preston. Elder
Young visited at Moor Ends Cross, and 24th preached at Malvern Hill. Elder
Kimball went to Eccleston and continued some day; visiting the churches
around Preston.

	Saturday, 25.---Elder Richards went to Manchester, found the
Prospectus for the Millennial Star ready. Elder Young returned to Frooms
Hill, and stayed at Brother John Benbow's till the 30th, preaching, and
writing letters to his friends in America.

	Wednesday, 29.--Elders Hyde and Page were at Quincy, Illinois.

	Elder Woodruff wrote as follows:

	Letter of Wilford Woodruff to Don Carlos Smith--Success of Woodruff's
Ministry. LEDBURY, HEREFORDSHIRE, ENGLAND, April 29, 1840.

	Elders Ebenezer Robinson and Don Carlos Smith: BRETHREN:--As Elder
Young is writing, I am privileged with a space of a few lines: knowing
that our friends are desirous to hear of the work of the Lord in this
land, I make the following remarks concerning the mercy of God and my
labors.

	Since I last wrote you, (I wrote you a lengthy letter, dated February
27th, in which I gave you an account of my travels, voyage, and labors
from the time I left Montrose unto the date of my letter, which I trust
you have received,) I continued laboring in Staffordshire until the first
of March, when I felt it to be the will of the Lord that I should go more
to the south part of England. I left the care of the Staffordshire church
in the hands of Elder Turley, and traveled eighty miles south, in a region
where the word had not been preached. I commenced preaching near Ledbury,
Herefordshire; this is about forty miles from Bristol, forty from
Birmingham, fourteen from Worcester, one hundred and twenty from London.
As soon as I began to teach, many received my testimony. I there preached
one month and five days, and baptized the superintendent of the church of
the United Brethren, a branch of the Methodist church, and with him 45
preachers, mostly of the same order; and about 114 members, making 160 in
all. This put into my hands, or under my care, more than forty established
places of preaching, licensed according to law, including one or two
chapels. This opened a large field for the spread of the work in this
country.

	Among the number baptized are some of most all churches and classes
as well as preachers. There is one constable, and one clerk of the Church
of England, with numbers of their members. But in the midst of my labors I
received a letter stating that the Twelve had just arrived and wished me
to come to Preston, and meet with them in conference. Consequently I
traveled 160 miles to Preston and was once more permitted to strike hands
with my brethren from America, and sit in conference with them, the
minutes of which you have.

	After conference I returned to Herefordshire in company with Elder
Brigham Young. We have again commenced our labors here, and there will be
many baptized in this region. I have now more than 200 on my list, and
scores are now waiting for an opportunity to receive the ordinance of
baptism; and the work is progressing in all parts of this country where it
is faithfully proclaimed. I understand that Elders Wright and Mulliner are
opening some permanent doors in Scotland; and we have many calls through
many parts of this country, even more than we are able to fill.

	I desire the prayers of the Saints; that I may have wisdom and grace
according to my day, and do the work of God in meekness and humility.
WILFORD WOODRUFF.

	Thursday, 30.--Elders Young, Woodruff, and Richards met at Elder
Kington's, at Dymock. Letter of Elders Hyde and Page to the Prophet--Plans
for the Palestine Mission. COLUMBUS, May 1, 1840. President Smith:

	SIR:--The mission upon which we are sent swells greater and greater.
As there is a great work to be done in Germany, as manifested to us by the
Spirit, the following plan has been suggested to us; viz., to write a set
of lectures upon the faith and doctrine of our Church, giving a brief
history of the coming forth of the Book of Mormon, and an account of its
contents in as clear and plain a style as possible; together with the
outlines and organization and government of the Church of Latter-day
Saints, drawn from the Doctrine and Covenants with ali the wisdom and care
possible; and get the same translated into German, and publish it when we
arrive in Germany, and scatter it through the German empire. Is this
correct? Should we consider it necessary to translate the entire Book of
Mormon into German, and Doctrine and Covenants too, are we or are we not
at liberty to do so? Should we deem it necessary to publish an edition of
hymn books in any country, are we at liberty to do it? The fact is, we
need such works, and we cannot get them from the church here; and if we
could, we could not well carry them with us, at least in any quantity.

	We feel that we are acting under the direction of the Presidency of
the Church; and the reason that we make these inquiries, is, that we do
not wish to step beyond our limits, or bring ourselves into a snare and
dishonor by taking liberties that are not ours. We feel that all our
exertions and interests shall become subservient to building up the
Kingdom of God. We wish to be co-workers with you and with the Spirit of
the Lord. We did not converse so much upon these literary works as we
should have done before we left. The fact is, we did not begin to see the
greatness of our mission before we left home; our minds were in a
nutshell.

	It seems to us that we should spread this work among all people,
languages and tongues, so far as possible; and gather up all jewels among
the Jews besides. Who is sufficient for these things?

	As agents for the Church abroad, and as co-workers with yourself, in
spreading this kingdom to the remotest corners of the earth, are we at
liberty to translate and publish any works that we may think necessary, or
that the circumstances in which we are placed seem to require whether
original, or works published by the Church? If we are not at liberty to
take this wide range, please tell us how far we may go.

	We are setting this great work before the people as an inducement to
them to help us. If we are setting our standard too high, a word from you
will bring it down. We have held a two days' meeting in this place; but in
consequence of continual rains, which swelled the creeks so high, the
people could not get to us. The meeting was four miles from Columbus; one
only baptized.

	We have now an opportunity to ride as far east as Indiana, beyond the
metropolis, and have the privilege to stop and preach by the way. Will you
write to us at Cincinnati, and much oblige Your brethren in the Kingdom of
God, ORSON HYDE, JOHN E. PAGE.

	P. S.--Will you please send word to Marinda, that I want her to write
to me at Cincinnati, Ohio. Please bear it in mind and oblige thy friend.
O. H.

	Friday, May 1.--The town of Baji, in the county of Baes, on the river
Danube, was almost totally destroyed by fire; about two thousand houses
were burnt, with the palace, several churches, and all the great corn
magazines; leaving about sixteen thousand inhabitants destitute. The
plague is raging in the East--at Silistria, Broussa, Alexandria, Aleppo,
&c. ; and wars and rumors of wars in Spain, Mexico and South American
governments; French and Arabs in Africa, Russia and Circassia, Egypt,
England and the East Indies, and the Canada Revolution; all betoken the
fulfillment of prophecy.

	Thursday, 7.--The city of Natchez was this day to a great extent
destroyed, almost in a moment, by a whirlwind, storm and tempest. It is
reported that sixty boats sunk, houses and churches blown to atoms, more
than three hundred persons killed, and $5,000,000 of property destroyed;
nearly the whole country on the Mississippi for 1,100 miles from its mouth
is under water.

	Letter of Brigham Young to the Prophet--Affairs of the British
Mission. LUGWARDINE, HEREFORDSHIRE, ENGLAND, May 7, 1840.

	BROTHER JOSEPH SMITH--Through the mercy of our heavenly Father, I am
alive and in pretty good health; better than I should have been, had I
remained in America. I trust that you and family are well, and I ask my
heavenly Father that we may live forever; but not to be chased about by
mobs, but live to enjoy each other's society in peace. I long to see the
faces of my friends again in that country once more, It is better for me
to be here, because the Lord has called me to this great work, but it is
hard for me to be parted from my old friends whom I have proved to be
willing to lay down their lives for each other. I feel as though the Lord
would grant me the privilege of sometime seeing my old friends in America.
Give my best wishes to your wife. I remember her in my prayers, and also
Father and Mother Smith. I remember the time when I first saw Mother
Smith, and the trials she had when the work of the Lord first commenced in
her family. I beg to be remembered to Brother Rigdon and family, also to
Brother Hyrum and family, and to all the faithful in Christ.

	The brethren that have come from America are all well and doing well.
I want to ask some questions. Shall we print the Book of of Mormon in this
country immediately? They are calling for it from every quarter. The
duties are so high on books, we need not think of bringing them from
America. Another question, is the Book of Doctrine and Covenants to be
printed just as it is now, to go to the nations of the earth; and shall we
give it to them as quickly as we can? Or what shall be do? Will the Twelve
have to be together to do business as a quorum? Or shall they do business
in the name of the Church? Why I ask this is for my own satisfaction; if
the Lord has a word for us, for one I am willing to receive it.

	I wish you to write as soon as you receive this, and let me know
about the Book of Mormon, whether we shall proceed to publish it
immediately or not, or whether we shall do according to our feelings. If I
should act according to my feelings, I should hand the Book of Mormon to
this people as quickly as I could. The people are very different in this
country from what the Americans are. They say it cannot be possible that
men should leave their homes and come so far, unless they were truly the
servants of the Lord; they do not seem to understand argument; simple
testimony is enough for them; they beg and plead for the Book of Mormon,
and were it not for the priests, the people would follow after the
servants of the Lord and inquire what they should do to be saved. The
priests feel just as they did in the days of the Savior. If they let "this
sect alone, all men will believe on them, and the Romans will come and
take away our place and nation."

	I wish you would tell me how Cousin Lemuel gets along with his
business, and all the boys on the half-breed track, and the whole breed. I
think a great deal about our friends, families, and possessions. I look
for the time when the Lord will speak so that the hearts of the rebellious
will be pierced. You will remember the words of the Savior to His
disciples; He says, to you is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom
of heaven, but to them that are without, all things are in parables.

	The brethren here are very anxious to emigrate to that country; some
want to come this fall: where shall they go? Their customs are different
from ours, and it would be more pleasant for them to settle by themselves.
Almost without exception it is the poor that receive the Gospel. I think
there will be some [who will go] over this fall. My counsel to such as
intend to go is, that they go to the western states, where they can live
among the farmers and wait for orders from the authorities of the Church,
and all will be well.

	You must excuse my bad writing. I have only caught at ideas. I want
to know about the brethren's coming over this fall. I think some of us
will come. We shall send our papers to you, and to a number of the rest of
the brethren. I wish you would have the goodness to give me a pretty
general knowledge of the Church, for I feel for them, and pray for them
continually. We need help very much in this country. One American can do
more here than a number of Elders who are raised up here by the preaching
of the Gospel. We have sent for some to come. I wish you would encourage
them to come as quickly as they can.

	If we could go four ways at a time, we could not fill all the calls
we have for preaching. I shall expect such counsel from you about the
Elders coming as you shall think necessary for us and them to have. I wish
to know what the prospect is about the government's doing anything for us.
When we left New York I thought there was but a poor chance for us.

	Concerning calling Seventies and sending them to other countries, I
should like to know whether it would be proper to ordain them to that
office or not while here. Had any of us better come back this fall? I
suppose that some that come over with us will return; Brothers Clark and
Hedlock, and Brother Turley if the latter gets at liberty. I suppose you
have heard that he is in prison. He has been there ever since my arrival
in England, and how long he will remain the Lord only knows. He was put
there through the influence of a priest, as nigh as I can learn, for some
old pretended claim, but no one can find out what that claim is.

	I have just met with Brother Woodruff; he tells me that the Church in
this region of country numbers between three and four hundred; it is only
about three months since Brother Woodruff commenced to labor here. I have
just received a letter from Brother Turley, which states he expects to
leave his place the next day. Brother Woodruff sends his respects. I am as
ever, BRIGHAM YOUNG.

	Saturday, 9.--Elder Theodore Turley was released from Stafford jail,
where he had been confined since his arrest on the 16th of March last, at
the instigation of John Jones, a Methodist preacher, on the pretense of a
claim arising under a partnership with another man fifteen years ago,
before he left England;

	but the real object was to stop his preaching. He was without
provisions for several days, but the poor Saints in the Potteries, on
learning his condition, supplied his wants, some of the sisters actually
walking upwards of twenty miles to relieve him. He preached several times
to the debtors, was visited by Elders Woodruff, Richards, George A. Smith,
A. Cordon, and others, and was dismissed from prison on his persecutors
ascertaining their conduct was about to be exposed.  This rather
encouraged than disheartened the Elders, as I had told them on their
leaving Nauvoo, to be of good courage, for some of them would have to look
through grates before their return.

	Thursday, 14.--The papers of this date report that the island of
Ternate* was nearly ruined by earthquakes on the 14th and 15th February,
1840.

	Letter of the Prophet to Elders Hyde and Page--Palestine Mission
Considered. NAUVOO, HANCOCK COUNTY, ILLINOIS, May 14th, 1840. To Orson
Hyde and John E. Page: DEAR BRETHREN:--I am happy in being informed by
your letter that your mission swells "larger and larger." It is a great
and important mission, and one that is worthy those intelligences who
surround the throne of Jehovah to be engaged in. Although it appears great
at present, yet you have but just begun to realize the greatness, the
extent and glory of the same. If there is anything calculated to interest
the mind of the Saints, to awaken in them the finest sensibilities, and
arouse them to enterprise and exertion, surely it is the great and
precious promises made by our heavenly Father to the children of Abraham;
and those engaged in seeking the outcasts of Israel, and the dispersed of
Judah, cannot fail to enjoy the Spirit of the Lord and have the choicest
blessings of Heaven rest upon them in copious effusions. Brethren, you are
in the pathway to eternal fame, and immortal glory: and inasmuch as you
feel interested for the covenant people of the Lord, the God of their
fathers shall bless you. Do not be discouraged on account -------

	*Ternate is a small island in the Moluccas, west of Jilolo, in the
Dutch East Indies.

	of the greatness of the work; only be humble and faithful, and then
you can say, "What art thou, O great mountain! before Zerubbabel shalt
thou be brought down." He who scattered Israel has promised to gather
them; therefore inasmuch as you are to be instrumental in this great work,
He will endow you with power, wisdom, might, and intelligence, and every
qualification necessary; while your minds will expand wider and wider,
until you can circumscribe the earth and the heavens, reach forth into
eternity, and contemplate the mighty acts of Jehovah in all their variety
and glory.

	In answer to your inquiries respecting the translation and
publication of the Book of Mormon, hymn book, history of the Church, &c.,
&c., I would say that I entirely approve of the same, and give my consent,
with the exception of the hymn book, as a new edition, containing a
greater variety of hymns, will be shortly published or printed in this
place, which I think will be a standard work. As soon as it is printed,
you shall have some sent to you, which you may get translated, and printed
into any language you please.

	Should we not be able to send some to you, and there should be a
great call for hymn books where you may be, then I should have no
objection to your publishing the present one. Were you to publish the Book
of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, or hymn book, I desire the copyrights
of the same to be secured in my name.

	With respect to publishing any other work, either original, or those
which have been published before, you will be governed by circumstances;
if you think necessary to do so, I shall have no objection whatever. It
will be well to study plainness and simplicity in whatever you publish,
"for my soul delighteth in plainness."

	I feel much pleased with the spirit of your letter--and be assured,
dear brethren, of my hearty cooperation, and my prayers for your welfare
and success. In answer to Your inquiry in a former letter, relative to the
duty of the Seventies in regulating churches, &c., I say that the duties
of the Seventies are more particularly to preach the Gospel, and build up
churches, rather than regulate them, that a High Priest may take charge of
them. If a High Priest should be remiss in his duty, and should lead, or
suffer the church to be led astray, depart from the ordinances of the
Lord, then it is the duty of one of the Seventies, acting under the
special direction of the Twelve, being duly commissioned by them with
their delegated authority, to go to the church, and if agreeable to a
majority of the members of said church, to proceed to regulate and put in
order the same; otherwise, he can have no authority to act. JOSEPH SMITH,
JUN.

	Friday, 15. Letter or Willard Richards to the Editor of the
Millennial Star--Reporting Labors. LEDBURY, HEREFORDSHIRE, May 15th, 1840.
To the Editor of the Millennial Star:

	BELOVED BRETHREN:--Two weeks ago this day, I parted with Brothers
Young and Woodruff in this place, taking different locations in this part
of the vineyard, originally opened by Brother Woodruff, and after visiting
various places in Herefordshire, Worcestershire, and Gloucestershire,
preaching daily, talking night and day, and administering the ordinances
of the Gospel as directed by the Spirit, we have again this day found
ourselves together, and Elder Kington in our midst (he is devoted wholly
to the ministry). By comparing minutes we find there have been in these
two weeks about 112 baptized; 200 confirmed; 2 Elders, about 20 Priests,
and 1 Teacher ordained; and the Church in these regions now numbers about
320. The branches are small, the brethren much scattered; consequently the
field is so large that the reapers cannot call to each other from side to
side, neither can they often see each other without a telescope.

	There are many doors open which we cannot fill; calls for preaching
on almost every hand, which we cannot answer. Oh! that the Saints would
pray to the Lord of the harvest to send forth laborers! I have this day
received a letter from my sister in Massachusetts, giving me the
intelligence of the death of my aged father. The work of the Lord is
rolling forth in that part of the land, such intelligence as this from our
native land makes our hearts rejoice, even in affliction. Your brother in
the everlasting covenant, WILLARD RICHARDS.


                              CHAPTER VII. 
         FIRST FOREIGN PERIODICAL OF THE CHURCH, "THE MILLENNIAL 
     STAR"--THE PROPHET SEEKS RELEASE FROM SECULAR RESPONSIBILITIES.

	Sunday, May 17.--Elders Young, Woodruff, and Richards held conference
with the Saints at Gadfield Elm Chapel.

	Monday, 18.--The above Elders met the brethren at Elder Kington's,
where they had a tea party, praying singing, confirming, ordaining, and
about twenty were baptized; thus they continued their labors from place to
place, until Wednesday 20th, when they found themselves with one accord on
the top of "the Herefordshire Beacon,"* and within the old fortification,
when after prayer they expressed their feelings concerning the business of
the Church, which were (as they had obtained money from Brother John
Benbow, and other brethren for printing the hymnbook, and in part
sufficient for the Book of Mormon) that Elder Young repair immediately to
Manchester, and join his brethren previously appointed with him on a
committee, for the printing of the hymn book, and cause 3,000 copies to be
issued without delay. Also that the same committee cause 3,000 copies of
the Book of Mormon to be printed and completed with as little delay as
possible, with an index affixed to the same, the form of the book to be
determined by the committee. Their views were written and signed by Elder
Willard Richards and Wilford Woodruff, when President Young left direct
for Manchester. He saw George A. Smith, at the Potteries, who approved the
"Beacon Conference." -------

	* one of the noted heights of the Black Mountains, running through
the west part of Herefordshire.

	Sunday, 24.--President Young met with the Church, and on Monday,
25th, visited the printers to inquire their prices, etc.

	A Letter of Heber C. Kimball, et al., Recommending English Saints to
the Bishop of the Church. PRESTON, May 25, 1840.

	To the Presidency, High Council and Bishop of the Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints at Commerce. We commend to your notice the
brethren and sisters that have commendatory letters from us of this date,
that you will do all that you consistently can for them, for I verily
believe they have utmost confidence in you, and will receive with
gratitude your advice and instruction, and cheerfully submit to the rules
and regulations of the Church. They have our blessings, and we trust their
subsequent conduct will entitle them to your blessings also, and the
Church generally. We rejoice that we can say the work of God here is in a
prosperous way. Yea, we rejoice greatly at the aspect of the times,
expecting the time to be not far distant when the standard of truth will
be conspicuously raised throughout this land. We have witnessed the
flowing of the Saints towards Zion; the stream has begun, and we expect to
see it continue running until it shall have drained the salt, or the
light, from Babylon, when we hope to shout hosanna home.

	Dear brethren, accept our love, and present it to the Church.

	Your brethren in the new and everlasting covenant, HEBER C. KIMBALL,
JOSEPH FIELDING, WILLIAM CLAYTON.

	Tuesday, 26.----Elder John Taylor arrived at Manchester, and on the
27th, Elder Kimball arrived. The committee on the hymn book commenced and
continued selecting hymns until the 30th, when Elders Young, Kimball and
Taylor went to Liverpool, and preached on Sunday the 31st.

	Wednesday, 27.--Bishop Edward Partridge* died at Nauvoo, aged
forty-six years. He lost his life In consequence of the Missouri
persecutions, and he is one of that number whose blood will be required at
their hands. His daughter, Harriet Pamela, died on the 16th of May, aged
nineteen years. -------

	* see Biographical Note, vol. 1, pp. 128-9.

	The first number of The Latter-day Saints' Millennial Star* was
issued at Manchester, in pamphlet form of twenty-four pages. Edited by
Parley P. Pratt. Price sixpence. Office 149 Oldham Road.

	Monday, June 1, 1840.--The Saints have already erected about two
hundred and fifty-houses at Nauvoo, mostly block houses, a few framed, and
many more are in course of construction.

	The Gospel is spreading through the States, Canada, England,
Scotland, and other places, with great rapidity. -------

	* The Millennial Star was the first foreign publication of the
church. It was issued as a monthly, but afterwards more frequently,
semi-monthly, and finally, and now for many years, a weekly. Its
publication has been continuous from the time it was started until the
present-1907. Also the Star has retained the general character imparted to
it by its first publishers. "The Millennial Star," said its Prospectus,
"will stand aloof from the common political and commercial news of the
day. Its columns will be devoted to the spread of the fulness of the
Gospel--the restoration of the ancient principles of Christianity--the
gathering of Israel--the rolling forth of the kingdom of God among the
nations--the signs of the times--the fulfillment of prophecy--recording
the judgments of God as they befall the nations whether signs in the
heavens or in the earth, blood fire or vapor of smoke--in short, whatever
is shown forth indicative of the coming of the `Son of Man' and ushering
in of his universal reign upon the earth. It will also contain letters
from our numerous Elders who are abroad, preaching the word both in
America and Europe containing news of their success in ministering the
blessings of the glorious Gospel."

	As an explanation of its title and mission, the editor in its first
number also said:

	"The word Millennium signifies a thousand years, and in this sense of
the word, may be applied to any [period of a] thousand years, whether
under the reign of wickedness or righteousness. But the term the
Millennial, is generally understood to apply to the particular thousand
years which is mentioned in the Scriptures as the reign of peace--the
great sabbath of creation, of which all the other sabbaths or jubilees
seem to be but types. It is written that a `thousand years is one day, and
one day as a thousand years with the Lord.' This being the case, then
seven thousand years are seven days with the Lord, and the seventh, or
last thousand years would, of course, be a sabbath or jubilee; a rest, a
grand release from servitude and woe.   *  *  *  The curse will be taken
from off the earth, and it will cease to bring forth thorns and thistles,
and become fertile as it were a paradise, while sickness, premature death,
and all their attendant train of pains and sorrows will scarce be known
upon its face; thus peace, and joy, and truth, and love, and knowledge,
and plenty, and glory, will cover the face of the earth as the waters do
the sea. The tabernacle of God and his sanctuary will be with man, in the
midst of the holy cities; and joy and gladness will all the measure of
their cup. Such then, is the Great Millennium of which our little `Star'
would fain announce the dawn."

	Elders Young and Kimball were engaged in blessing the brethren who
were about to sail for America.

	Wednesday, 3.--Elders Young and Taylor visited the printers in
Liverpool and Elder Young preached on the Sunday following.

	Saturday, 6.--Elder John Moon and a company of forty Saints, to wit.,
Hugh Moon, his mother and seven others of her family, Henry Moon (uncle of
John Moon), Henry Moon, Francis Moon, William Sutton, William Sitgraves,
Richard Eaves, Thomas Moss, Henry Moore, Nancy Ashworth, Richard
Ainscough, and families, sailed in the ship Britannia from Liverpool for
New York, being the first Saints that have sailed from England for Zion.

	Monday, 8.--Elders Young and Taylor visited Cheshire, and on Tuesday,
Manchester, and continued to select hymns.

	Elder Young dreamed of his family in health and want, also of the
Church and people, and of a contention between two small companies in the
west, one north, the other south--the north prevailing from time to time.

	Minutes of the Conference Held at Gadfield Elm Chapel, in
Worcestershire, England, June 14th, 1840.

	The preachers and members of the Bran Green and Gadfield Elm Branch
of the Froomes Hill Circuit, of the United Brethren met at the Gadfield
Elm Chapel, Worcestershire, June 14th, 1840, pursuant to previous notice
when the meeting was called to order by Elder Thomas Kington. Elder
Willard Richards was chosen president, and Elder Daniel Browett clerk for
the meeting. The meeting was opened by prayer by Elder Wilford Woodruff.
Remarks were then made by the president respecting the business of the
day, and the necessary changes which must take place.

	It was then moved by Elder Thomas Kington, seconded by Elder Daniel
Browett that this meeting be hereafter known by the name of the "Bran
Green and Gadfield Elm Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints," organized and established by the will and commandment
of God in the United States of America, on the 6th day of April,

	A. D. 1830, this being the eighth day of the third month of the
eleventh year of the rise of the Church. Carried unanimously.

	[This motion was permitted to accommodate the feelings of the
conference, who had ali recently been baptized, but there is no such
principle in existence, as to transform a church or conference of the
world into a church or conference of Christ's fold by vote.]*

	Moved by Elder Wilford Woodruff, seconded by Elder T. Kington that
William Jenkins be ordained an Elder; and Joseph Firkins, William Pitt and
Robert Harris be ordained to the office of Priest; and that George Burton,
James Palmer, and William Loveridge, be ordained Teachers; carried
unanimously. Ordained under the hands of Elders Richards and Woodruff.

	Moved by Elder Kington, seconded by Elder Woodruff, that Robert
Clift, Priest, have the care of the church at Dymock; James Palmer,
Priest, have the care of the church at Kilcott; John Hill, Priest, have
the care of the church at Twigworth; William Coleman, Priest, have the
care of the church at Bran Green; Thomas Brooks, Priest, have the care of
the church at Ryton; John Smith, Priest, have the care of the church at
Lime Street; Charles Hayes, Priest have the care of the church at
Deerhurst; Thomas Smith, Priest, Assistant, have the care of the church at
Deerhurst; John Vernon, Priest, have the care of the church at Apperley;
William Bayliss, Priest, Assistant, have the care of the church at
Apperley; John Arlick, Priest, have the care of the church at Norton; John
Spires, Priest, have the care of the church at Leigh; John Davis, Priest,
assistant, have the care of the church at Leigh; Thomas Oakley, Priest,
have the care of the church at Gadfield Elm.

	And that Elder Daniel Browett take charge of the churches on the
south, and Elder William Jenkins on the north side, of the river Severn.
Carried unanimously.

	Moved by Elder Woodruff, and seconded by Elder Richards, that Elder
Thomas Kington be the Presiding Elder over the Conference; carried.
Meeting adjourned until two o'clock.

	Conference met at two o'clock according to adjournment, and
administered the sacrament to a large congregation of Saints, accompanied
by many observations on many subjects by the President. Ten members were
confirmed under the hands of Elders Woodruff and Kington. Remarks were
made by the President respecting the "blessing of children." Seven
children were then blessed under the hands of Elders Woodruff and Kington.
-------

	* The matter in brackets occurs in the Ms. History as also in the
History as published in the Millennial Star, but it is evidently the
comment of the Church Historians.

	Moved by Elder Kington, seconded by Elder Woodruff, that Elder Daniel
Browett represent this Conference to the general conference, at
Manchester, on the 6th day of July next; carried. Moved and carried that
the Clerk present to the Presiding Elder, T. Kington, also to the general
conference, for safe keeping, a copy of the minutes of this conference.

	The above minutes were then read and adopted, article by article,
when it was moved by the President, and seconded by Elder Woodruff, that
this conference be adjourned to the 13th day of September next at this
place; carried unanimously.

	Conference closed by prayer; after which the Elders and officers
present met in council, and voted unanimously to establish a weekly
council of the officers of said conference to be held alternately on the
south and north sides of the river Severn, to commence at Leigh on the
25th inst.; and organized the same by appointing Elder Daniel Browett,
president and John Hill, Priest, clerk, on the south side of the river;
and also on the north side, by appointing Elder William Jenkins, president
and John Smith, Priest, clerk; to assemble on the 3rd of July next, at
Turkey Hall.

	After passing many other votes of minor importance, accompanied by
much instruction from Elders Richards and Woodruff, touching the duties of
the several officers in their relations to each other, and the Church, the
council adjourned. And it is worthy of remark, that no dissenting vote or
voice was seen or heard during the day, either in conference or council.
WILLARD RICHARDS, President. DANIEL BROWETT, Clerk.

	Memorial of Joseph Smith, Jun., to the high Council of the Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, June 18th, 1840. The Memorial of Joseph
Smith, Jun., respectfully represents--That after the members of the Church
of Jesus Christ had been inhumanly as well as unconstitutionally expelled
from their homes which they had secured to themselves in the state of
Missouri, and although very much scattered and at considerable distance
from each other, they found a resting place in the state of
Illinois:--That after the escape of your Memorialist from his enemies, he
(under the direction of the authorities of the Church) took such steps as
has secured to the Church the present locations, viz., the town plot of
Nauvoo and lands in the Iowa territory:--That in order to secure said
locations, your Memorialist had to become responsible for the payment of
the same, and had to use considerable exertion in order to commence a
settlement, and a place of gathering for the Saints; and knowing from the
genius of the constitution of the Church, and for the well-being of the
Saints, that it was necessary that the constituted authorities of the
Church might assemble together to act or to legislate for the good of the
whole society and that the Saints might enjoy those privileges which they
could not enjoy by being scattered so widely apart--your Memorialist was
induced to exert himself to the utmost in order to bring about objects so
necessary and so desirable to the Saints at large:--Under the then
existing circumstances, your Memorialist had necessarily to engage in the
temporalities of the Church, which he has had to attend to until the
present time:--That your Memorialist feels it a duty which he owes to God,
as well as to the Church, to give his attention more particularly to those
things connected with the spiritual welfare of the Saints, (which have now
become a great people,) so that they may be built up in their most holy
faith, and go on to perfection:--That the Church have erected an office
where he can attend to the affairs of the Church without distraction, he
thinks, and verily believes, that the time has now come, when he should
devote himself exclusively to those things which relate to the
spiritualities of the Church, and commence the work of translating the
Egyptian records, the Bible, and wait upon the Lord for such revelations
as may be suited to the conditions and circumstances of the Church. And in
order that he may be enabled to attend to those things, he prays your
honorable body will relieve him from the anxiety and trouble necessarily
attendant on business transactions, by appointing some one to take charge
of the city plot, and attend to the business transactions which have
heretofore rested upon your Memorialist: That should your Honors deem it
proper to do so, your Memorialist would respectfully suggest that he would
have no means of support whatever, and therefore would request that some
one might be appointed to see that ali his necessary wants may be provided
for, as well as sufficient means or appropriations for a clerk or clerks,
which he may require to aid him in his important work.

	Your Memorialist would further represent, that as Elder H. G.
Sherwood is conversant with the affairs of the city plot, he would be a
suitable person to act as clerk in that business, and attend to the
disposing of the remaining lots, &c.

	Your Memorialist would take this opportunity of congratulating your
honorable body on the peace and harmony which exist in the Church, and for
the good feelings which seem to be manifested by all the Saints, and hopes
that inasmuch as we devote ourselves for the good of the Church, and the
spread of the kingdom, that the choicest blessings of heaven will be
poured upon us, and that the glory of the Lord will overshadow the
inheritances of the Saints. JOSEPH SMITH, JUN.

	Proceedings of the High Council on the Foregoing Memorial, June 20th,
1840. The Council relieved President Joseph Smith, Jun., according to his
request in the memorial, and appointed H. G. Sherwood to take charge of
the city plot and to act as clerk in that business, and also to attend to
the disposing of the remaining lots, and the business transactions which
have rested upon him [Joseph Smith]. Alanson Ripley was appointed steward
to see that all the necessary wants of the First Presidency be supplied,
as well as to provide sufficient means or appropriations for a clerk or
clerks to aid President Joseph Smith, Jun., in his important work. HOSEA
STOUT, Clerk.

	Minutes of the Conference held at Stanley hill, Castle Froome,
Herefordshire, England, June 21st, 1840.

	The preachers and members of the Froome's Hill Circuit of the United
Brethren met at the house of Elder John Cheese, on Stanley Hill,
Herefordshire, England, June 21, A. D. 1840, at ten a.m., according to
previous notice; the meeting was called to order by Elder Thomas Kington;
Elder Wilford Woodruff was chosen president, and Elder John Benbow, clerk
of the meeting.

	After prayer by Elder Richards, and remarks by the president
concerning the business of the day, it was moved by Eider Thomas Kington,
and seconded by Elder John Benbow, that [the several districts represented
at] this meeting be hereafter known by the name of the "Froome's Hill
Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints," organized
and established by the will and commandment of God, in the United States
of America, on the 6th day of April, 1830, this being the 15th day of the
third month of the eleventh year of the rise of the Church. Carried
unanimously.

	Moved by Elder Richards, seconded by Elder Kington, that Thomas
Clark, Charles Price, James Hill, and Samuel Jones be ordained Elders;
also that John James, Joseph Skinn, Henry Jones, James Baldwin, John
Morgan, Samuel Badham, and John Dyer, be ordained Priests; also that
Robert Hill, George Brooks, James Skinn, and James Watkins be ordained
Teachers; carried unanimously; and they were ordained under the hands of
Elders Woodruff and Richards.

	Moved by Elder Kington, and seconded by Elders Woodruff and Richards,
that John James, Priest, have the care of the church at Froome's Hill;
John Parry, Priest, have the care of the church at Stanley Hill; James
Burns, Priest, have the care of the church at Ridgway Cross; William
Possons, Priest, have the care of the church at Moor-end Cross; Jonathan
Lucy, Priest, have the care of the church at Caldwell; Thomas Jones,
Priest, have the care of the church at Pale House; John Preece,

	Priest, have the care of the church at Ledbury; Samuel Warren,
Priest, have the care of the church at Keysend Street; James Baldwin,
Priest, have the care of the church at Wind Point; George Allen, Priest,
have the care of the church at Woferwood Common.

	Rough Leasow, Birchwood, Tunbridge, and Dunsclose will all be united
in one branch, called Dunsclose.

	Samuel Badham, Priest, to have the care of the church at Dunsclose;
Edward Phillips, Priest, to have care of the church at Ashfield and
Crowcut; John Meeks, Priest, to have care of the church at Old Starridge;
John Galley, Priest, to have care of the church at Hope Rough; Benj.
Williams, Priest, to have care of the church at Shucknell Hill; John
Powell, Priest, to have care of the church at Lugwardine; John Dyer,
Priest, to have care of the church at Marden; William Evans, Priest, to
have care of the church at Stokes Lane; John Fidoe, Priest, to have care
of the church at Bishop Froome. Carried unanimously.

	Moved by Elder Richards, and seconded by Elder Kington, that Elder
Thomas Clark have charge of the churches at Dunsclose, Old Starridge,
Ashfield, and Crowcut; that Elder Samuel Jones have charge of the churches
at Keys-end Street, Wind Point, Colwell, Pale House, and Malvern Hill;
that Elder Philip Green have charge of the churches at Shucknall Hill,
Lugwardine, and Marden; that Elder John Cheese have charge of the churches
at Stokes Lane, Woferwood Common, and Bishop Froome; that Elder Charles
Price have charge of the churches at Ledbury, Moor-end Cross, and Ridgway
Cross; that Elder James Hill have charge of the churches at Hope Rough and
Stanley Hill; that Elder John Benbow have charge of the church at Froome's
Hill. Carried unanimously.

	Moved by the president, seconded by Elder Richards, that Elder Thomas
Kington be the Presiding Elder over this conference.

	After remarks by the president, the meeting adjourned till 2 o'clock
p.m. During the recess ten persons were baptized.

	Assembled at 2 o'clock according to adjournment, and administered the
sacrament to several hundred Saints; after which twenty were confirmed,
and twenty children blessed under the hands of Elders Woodruff and
Richards, accompanied with instructions by the president, explanatory of
the ordinance.

	Moved by Elder Richards, seconded by the president, that Elder Thomas
Kington represent this Conference to the general conference at Manchester
on the 6th of July; carried. Moved and carried that the clerk of the
conference present to the Presiding Elder, T. Lington, a copy of the
minutes of this conference for safe keeping; also a copy to present to the
general conference at Manchester. The minutes were then read and accepted.
The president, followed by Elder Richards, then proceeded to give such
instruction to the Saints concerning the order of the Church, and the
several duties of the members, as the Spirit directed; and bore testimony
to the multitude of the truth of the work; followed by Elder Kington; when
it was moved by Elder Richards, seconded by the president, that this
conference adjourn to the 21st September next, 10 o'clock a.m., at this
place; carried.

	After prayer and singing, the assembly dispersed, the Elders and
officers went into council, when it was moved by Elder Richards, and
seconded by Elder Kington, that we proceed to establish and organize
monthly councils of the officers of the Froome's Hill Conference, to
commence on Friday, the 3rd of July next, at half-past seven o'clock p.m.,
in the several divisions, respectively assigned to the different Elders,
viz.--

	Elder Thomas Clark, president, and James Meeks, clerk, Dunsclose;
Elder Charles Price, president, Thomas Jenkins, clerk, Moor-end Cross;
Samuel Jones, president, William Williams, clerk, Wind Point; James Hill,
president, Joseph Pullen, clerk, Stanley Rill; Philip Green, president,
Francis Burnett, clerk, Lugwardine; John Benbow, president, John Morgan,
clerk, Froome's Hili; John Cheese, president, George Allen, clerk, Stoke's
Lane. Carried.

	Moved by Elder Richards, and seconded by Elder Kington, that a
monthly general council of the officers of this conference be held at
Stanley Hill, to commence on Friday, the 17th of July next, at half-past
seven o'clock, p.m. Elder Thomas Kington, president, and Elder John
Benbow, clerk. Carried unanimously.

	The president then proceeded to explain the nature of the Priesthood,
and the duties and privileges of the several officers, and gave such
instruction as their situation required, followed by Elder Richards, who
explained many important principles connected with the building up of the
Kingdom.

	The minutes of the council were then read and accepted when the
council adjourned; and after singing "The Spirit of God," &c., the
brethren separated, with feelings of gratitude and thanksgiving, that God
had been with His people, and that the spirit of union and love had
prevailed in all the deliberations of the day. WILFORD WOODRUFF,
President. JOHN BENBOW, Clerk.

	REMARKS--The different branches in this region are so scattered, that
it has not been possible to ascertain the number of members connected with
each individual church; but connected with the Bran Green and Gadfield
Elm, and the Froome's Hill conferences, together with a small branch of
Little Garway of twelve members, one Priest, and one Teacher, are
thirty-three churches, five hundred and thirty-four members, seventy-five
officers, viz., ten Elders, fifty-two priests, and thirteen teachers. And
for the comforting of the Saints, and with heart-felt gratitude to our
heavenly Father, we would say that it is less than four months since the
fulness of the Gospel was first preached in this region; which is a proof
that God is beginning to make a short work in these last days. WILFORD
WOODRUFF.

	June 21.--The Saints hired the Carpenters' Hall in Manchester, which
is large enough to accommodate ten or fifteen hundred hearers, for five
hundred dollars a year, payable by contribution and Elders Young and Pratt
preached therein this day for the first time.

	Monday, 22.--Elder Young went to Liverpool to see about printing the
Book of Mormon, and returned to Manchester on the 26th; and on Sunday,
28th, preached in Carpenters' Hall.

	June 27.--High Council met at my office. Minutes of the high Council.
Alanson Ripley states to the council that he was authorized to inform them
that President Joseph Smith, Jun., had vetoed the proceedings of the
Council of the 20th June, in relation to his Memorial. Laid over for
hearing until Friday next. HOSEA STOUT, Clerk.

	Letter of William W. Phelps--Confessing Errors committed in Missouri.
DAYTON, OHIO, June 29, 1840.

	BROTHER JOSEPH--I am alive, and with the help of God I mean to live
still. I am as the prodigal son, though I never doubt or disbelieve the
fulness of the Gospel. I have been greatly abused and humbled, and I
blessed the God of Israel when I lately read your prophetic blessing on my
head, as follows:

	"The Lord will chasten him because he taketh honor to himself, and
when his soul is greatly humbled he will forsake the evil. Then shall the
light of the Lord break upon him as at noonday and in him shall be no
darkness," &c.

	I have seen the folly of my way, and I tremble at the gulf I have
passed. So it is, and why I know not. I prayed and God answered, but what
could I do? Says I, "I will repent and live, and ask my old brethren to
forgive me, and though they chasten me to death, yet I will die with them,
for their God is my God. The least place with them is enough for me, yea,
it is bigger and better than all Babylon." Then I dreamed that I was in a
large house with many mansions, with you and Hyrum and Sidney, and when it
was said, "Supper must be made ready," by one of the cooks, I saw no meat,
but you said there was plenty, and you showed me much, and as good as I
ever saw; and while cutting to cook, your heart and mine beat within us,
and we took each other's hand and cried for joy, and I awoke and took
courage.

	I know my situation, you know it, and God knows it, and I want to be
saved if my friends will help me. Like the captain that was cast away on a
desert island; when he got off he went to sea again, and made his fortune
the next time, so let my lot be. I have done wrong and I am sorry. The
beam is in my own eye. I have not walked along with my friends according
to my holy anointing. I ask forgiveness in the name of Jesus Christ of all
the Saints, for I will do right, God helping me. I want your fellowship;
if you cannot grant that, grant me your peace and friendship, for we are
brethren, and our communion used to be sweet, and whenever the Lord brings
us together again, I will make all the satisfaction on every point that
Saints or God can require. Amen. W. W. PHELPS.

	Letter of Elders Orson Hyde and John E. Page to Presidents Joseph
Smith, Hyrum Smith, Sidney Rigdon, Pleading for William W. Phelps.

	DEAR BROTHER:--We have been in this place a few days, and have
preached faithfully, a very great prospect of some able and influential
men embracing the faith in this place. We have moved along slowly, but
have left a sealing testimony. Baptized a considerable number. We shall
write again more particularly as soon as we learn the result of our labors
here. We are well and in good spirits through the favor of the Lord.

	Brother Phelps requests us to write a few lines in his letter, and we
cheerfully embrace the opportunity. Brother Phelps says he wants to live,
but we do not feel ourselves authorized to act upon his case, but have
recommended him to you; but he says his poverty will not allow him to
visit you in person, at this time, and we think he tells the truth. We
therefore advise him to write, which he has done.

	He tells us verbally that he is willing to make any sacrifice to
procure your fellowship, life not excepted, yet reposing that confidence
in your magnanimity that you will take no advantage of this open and frank
confession If he can obtain your fellowship he wants to come to Commerce
as soon as he can. But if he cannot be received into the fellowship of the
Church, he must do the best he can in banishment and exile.

	Brethren, with you are the keys of the Kingdom; to you is power given
to "exert your clemency, or display your vengeance." By the former you
will save a soul from death, and hide a multitude of sins; by the latter,
you will forever discourage a returning prodigal cause sorrow without
benefit, pain without pleasure, [and the] ending [of Brother Phelps] in
wretchedness and despair. But former experience teaches [us] that you are
workmen in the art of saving souls; therefore with greater confidence do
we recommend to your clemency and favorable consideration, the author [of
the foregoing] and subject of this communication. "Whosoever will, let him
take of the waters of life freely." Brother Phelps says he will, and so
far as we are concerned we say he may. In the bonds of the covenant, ORSON
HYDE, JOHN E. PAGE.

	The Committee of the Twelve in England finished the collection of
hymns and prepared the index for the press; and on the 30th Elders Kimball
and Richards arrived at Manchester.

	Wednesday, July 1, 1840.--Elders Wilford Woodruff and George A. Smith
arrived at Manchester from the Potteries.

	July 2. Minutes of a meeting of the Crooked Creek Branch of the
Church.

	At a meeting of the Saints of Crooked Creek Branch, on the 2nd of
July, 1840, to take into consideration the propriety of having a Stake of
Zion appointed or located somewhere in the bounds of this branch, Brother
John Hicks was called to the chair. Meeting was opened by prayer, after
which several remarks were made, and the following resolutions were
passed:

	Resolved: That it be our wishes that a Stake of Zion be appointed or
located within the bounds of this Branch, provided it should meet the
minds of the First Presidency of this Church.

	Resolved: That a committee of three be appointed to ascertain the
mind of the First Presidency and report to the Branch.

	Resolved: That Joseph Holebrook, Nathaniel Frampton, and John Hicks
compose said committee.

	It was ascertained that there were about 2,525 acres of land owned by
the brethren, and wherever the Stake should be appointed the lands should
be donated or purchased for a very small compensation, and that there are
one hundred and twelve members belonging to this Branch.

	Resolved: That we meet on Thursday next, at one o'clock, p.m., to
receive the report of the committee,

	Resolved: That the proceedings of this meeting be signed by the
president and clerk JOHN A. HICKS, President. WILLIAM WHITEMAN, Clerk.

	Friday, 3.--High Council met at my office. Minutes of High Council at
Nauvoo. The subject of the Memorial of President Joseph Smith, Jun., was
brought up for a rehearing, according to the decision of the last Council
(June 27) when the following resolutions were entered into:

	1st. Resolved: That we feel perfectly satisfied with the course taken
by Joseph Smith, Jun., and feel a disposition, as far as it is in our
power, to assist him, so as to relieve him from the temporalities of the
Church, in order that he may devote his time more particularly to the
spiritualities of the same, believing by so doing we shall promote the
good of the whole Church. But as he (Joseph Smith, Jun.) is held
responsible for the payment of the city plot, and knowing no way to
relieve him from the responsibility at present, we would request of him to
act as treasurer for the city plot and to whom [i.e., President Smith]
those persons whom we may appoint to make sales of lots and attend to the
business affairs of the Church may at all times be responsible, and make
true and correct returns of all their proceedings, as well as to account
for all monies, properties, etc., which may come into their hands.
Therefore

	Resolved: That Elder Henry G. Sherwood act as Clerk for the same.
That Bishop Alanson Ripley be appointed to provide for the wants of the
Presidency, and make such appropriations to them, and to their clerk or
clerks, which they may require.

	Resolved: That the funds of the city plot shall not be taken to
provide for the Presidency or clerks, but that the Bishops be instructed
to raise funds from other sources to meet calls made on them; and monies
received for lots shall be deposited in the hands of the Treasurer to
liquidate the debts of the city plot.

	The resolutions of the Crooked Creek Branch of the 2nd inst., were
taken into consideration by President Joseph Smith, Jun., and it was
thought proper to establish a Stake on Crooked Creek, agreeably to the
request of said Branch, and a letter was written to the brethren to that
effect. ROBERT B. THOMPSON, Scribe.

	Since Congress has decided against us, the Lord has begun to vex this
nation, and He will continue to do so except they repent; for they now
stand guilty of murder, robbery and plunder, as a nation, because they
have refused to protect their citizens, and to execute justice according
to their own Constitution. A hailstorm has visited South Carolina; some of
the stones are said to have measured nine inches in circumference, which
swept the crops, killing some cattle. Insects are devouring crops on the
high lands, where the floods of the country have not reached, and great
commercial distress prevails everywhere.


                              CHAPTER VIII. 
   IMPORTANT CONFERENCE OF THE CHURCH IN ENGLAND--KIDNAPPING OF BROWN 
       AND BOYCE BY MISSOURIANS--ACTION OF THE CITIZENS OF NAUVOO.

	Monday, July 6, 1840. Conference of the Church in England.

	A General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints was held in the Carpenter's Hall, Manchester, on the 6th day of
July, 1840, it being the 1st day of the 4th month of the eleventh year of
the Church, when the following officers of the traveling High Council were
present, viz.: Elders Brigham Young, Parley P. Pratt, Wilford Woodruff,
John Taylor, Willard Richards, Heber C. Kimball, and George A. Smith;
other officers, viz.: High Priests 5, Elders 19, Priests 15, Teachers 11,
and Deacons 3.

	The meeting being called to order, a little after ten o'clock, by
Elder William Clayton, it was moved by Elder Brigham Young, seconded by
Elder Wilford Woodruff, that Elder Parley P. Pratt be chosen President of
the conference,* which was carried unanimously. Elder William

	Clayton was chosen clerk. The meeting was opened by singing, and
prayer by the President.

	Elder Brigham Young then proceeded to prefer charges against Elder T.
Green, viz., first, for giving way to a false spirit; second, for abusing
a young female, by accusing her, in a public meeting, of things which he
could not prove; and third, for abuse to the house and congregation at
Duckinfield, June 28th, 1840. The president then proceeded to ask Elder
Green whether he was guilty of these charges, or not. He immediately
pleaded guilty. After Elder Young had made extended remarks to the
meeting, touching the conduct of Elder Green, he proposed that Elder Green
go to those characters where he had abused and insulted, and make
confession to them as far as the offense extended, and then to be
suspended from office for a season. The President then made remarks to the
same effect, and put it to the vote of the meeting, viz., that Elder Green
shall make confession, as stated above, and be suspended from office for a
season. Carried.

	The President then asked Elder Green if he was willing to make
confession, he immediately agreed to do it the first opportunity. The
meeting adjourned a little after twelve o'clock.

	At two o'clock business commenced by singing and prayer, when the
President called upon the officers to represent the different branches of
the Church, which was done in the following order, viz.--

	After the officers had got through the representations, the President
introduced the new hymn book; and after suitable remarks had been made by
him and Elders Young and Thomas Kington, the President asked the
conference if they were satisfied with the labors of those who had made
the selection, and if they received the book. The unanimous approbation of
the meeting was immediately manifested.

	By unanimous vote, Thomas Kington, Alfred Cordon, and Thomas Smith
were ordained High Priests; John Albison, John Blezzard, William Berry,
John Sanders, John Parkinson, James Worsley, and John Allen were ordained
Elders; and Joseph Slinger, George Walker, John Smith, Robert Williams,
William Black, John Melling, and John Swindlehurst were ordained Priests.

	Elder Brigham Young then called upon those officers, whose
circumstances would permit them to devote themselves entirely to the work
of the ministry, and would volunteer so to do, to stand up--when the
following names were taken, viz., of the traveling High Council, Brigham
Young, Heber C. Kimball, John Taylor, Wilford Woodruff, Willard Richards,
and George A. Smith; other officers, namely, William Clayton, Reuben
Hedlock, Hiram Clark, Theodore Turley, Joseph Fielding, Thomas Richardson,
Amos Fielding, John Parkinson, John Wych, John Needham, Henry Royle, John
Blezzard, D. Wilding, Charles Price, Joseph Knowles, Wm. Kay, Samuel
Heath, Wm. Parr, R. McBride, and James Morgan.

	Moved by Elder Richards, seconded by Elder Kimball, that Elder Peter
Melling be appointed to preside over the following branches of the Church,
namely--Preston, Longton, Penwortham, North Meols, and Southport; carried.

	Moved by Elder Kimball, seconded by Elder Young, that Elder Richard
Withnall be appointed to preside over the branches of the Church at
Whittle, Daubers Lane, Chorley, Hunter's Hill, and Euxtonburgh; carried.

	Moved by Elder Kimball, seconded by Elder Young, that Elder Thomas
Smith be appointed to preside over the branches of the Church at
Clitheroe, Chatburn, Downham, Chaighley, Grindleton, Whitmore, Burnley,
Blackburn, Ribchester, and Thornley: carried.

	Moved and seconded, that President Fielding and his counselors be set
at liberty from the charge which they have sustained as a presidency, that
they may have the privilege of more fully entering into the field of
labor; and that their labors be accepted; carried.

	Elders Young and Richards then proceeded to ordain those who had been
nominated to their respective offices, after which the minutes were read
and accepted.

	The conference adjourned to the sixth of October next, to be held in
the Carpenter's Hall, Manchester, at 10 o'clock, a.m.

	Tuesday, 7. A council of Church Officers, held at Manchester,
England.

	Pursuant to previous notice, a general council of the Church officers
was held in the council room at the Star office, Manchester, on the 7th
day of July, 1840. The meeting being opened by prayer by Elder Kimball,
Elder Young began to speak concerning those officers who had volunteered
to devote themselves wholly to the ministry; when it was moved and
seconded that Brothers William Kay and Thomas Richardson go to
Herefordshire, to labor in that region with Elder Kington; carried.

	Moved by Elder Kimball, seconded by Elder Young, that Brothers Hiram
Clark and Joseph Knowles go with Elder Hedlock to Scotland: carried.

	Moved by Elder Kimball, seconded by Elder Young, that Brother Joseph
Fielding go to Bedford: carried.

	Moved by Elder Richards, seconded by Elder Kimball, that Brothers
Amos Fielding and John Wych go to Newcastle-upon-Tyne: carried.

	Moved by Elder Kimball, seconded by Elder Woodruff, that Brother
David Wilding go to Garway, Herefordshire: carried.

	Moved by Elder Young, seconded by Elder Woodruff, that Brothers
William Clayton and John Needham go to Birmingham: carried.

	Moved by Elder Richards, seconded by Elder Young, that Brother Henry
Royle go to Sheffield: carried.

	Moved by Elder Clayton, seconded by Elder Young, that Brother John
Albiston take charge of the following Branches of the Church,
namely--Duckinfield, Hyde, Woolley Hill, Ashton, and Staley Bridge:
carried.

	Moved by Elder Pratt, seconded by Elder Woodruff, that Brother
William Parr go to Sandbach and Congleton: carried.

	Moved by Elder Richards, seconded by Elder Pratt, that Brother Heath
continue his labors in Macclesfield: carried.

	Moved by Elder Richards, seconded by Elder Woodruff, that Brother
John Blezzard go to Cornshaw: carried.

	Moved by Elder Kimball, seconded by Elder Richards, that Brother
Robert McBride go to Lancaster: carried.

	Moved by Elder Richards, seconded by Elder Woodruff, that Brother
James Morgan abide in his own neighborhood to labor with Elder David
Wilding: carried.

	Moved by Elder Pratt, seconded by Elder Woodruff, that Brother Price
give up his business, and labor under the advice of Elder Kington as the
way opens: carried.

	Moved by Elder Richards, seconded by Elder Kimball, that Brother
William Black go to Lisburn, Ireland, as the way opens: carried.

	Moved by Elder Richards, seconded by Elder Smith, that Brother John
Parkinson have a roving commission, so long as he keeps busy, and doing
good: carried.

	After Elder Young had addressed the meeting upon several important
items, the meeting dismissed by blessing from Elder Young. PARLEY P.
PRATT, President. WILLIAM CLAYTON, Clerk.

	At this time Elders Orson Hyde and John E. Page were laboring in
Ohio.

	Thursday, 9. Extract from Elder Woodruff's Letter to the Editor of
the Millennial Star--Detailing Incidents of his Ministry.

	I arrived at Froome's Hill, Castle Froome, Herefordshire, on the 4th
of March, and was kindly entertained for the night by Mr. John Benbow, who
received my testimony, and opened his door for meeting; and on the evening
following, the 5th of March, for the first time I preached the fullness of
the Gospel in that place to a small congregation, who manifested much
interest in what they heard, and desired to inquire further into those
things; and on the evening following I met a large number at Mr. Benbow's,
and preached unto them the principles of the Gospel, namely, faith in
Christ, repentance, and baptism for the remission of sins and the gift of
the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands; after which I administered the
ordinance of baptism unto six persons, Mr. and Mrs. Benbow among the
number. I also preached on Sunday the 8th and baptized seven, confirmed
thirteen, and broke bread unto them. Several of those who were baptized
were preachers of the order called the United Brethren.

	The United Brethren formerly belonged to the Primitive Methodists,
but had separated themselves from the body, and chose the name of the
United Brethren. They had from forty to fifty preachers and about the same
number of established places of meeting, including two chapels.

	Mr. Thomas Kington was the superintendent of the church of the United
Brethren, whose members numbered about four hundred in all, divided into
small branches and scattered over an extent of country from fifteen to
twenty miles. This people almost universally appeared willing to give heed
to the exhortation of Solomon, to hear a matter before they judged or
condemned. They opened their doors for me to preach, and searched the
Scriptures daily to see if the things which I taught were true; and on
finding that the word and spirit agreed and bore record of the truth of
the fullness of the Everlasting Gospel, they embraced it with all their
hearts, which has brought great joy and satisfaction to many souls in that
region.

	I continued preaching and baptizing daily; the congregations were
large and generally attentive. I was soon privileged with an interview
with Mr. Thomas Kington, the superintendent of the United Brethren, before
whom I gave an account of the rise and progress of the Church of the
Latter-day Saints, and bore testimony of the truth of the great work which
God had set His hand to accomplish in these last days.

	Mr. Kington received my testimony and sayings with candor; and
carried the case before the Lord, made it a subject of prayer, and asked
the Father in the name of Jesus Christ, if these things were true; and the
Lord manifested the truth of it unto him, and he went forth and was
baptized, he and all his household. I ordained him an Elder, and he went
forth and began to preach the fullness of the Gospel.

	I also baptized about forty preachers of the same order, and several
others belonging unto other churches, and about one hundred and twenty
members of the United Brethren, which opened about forty doors or
preaching places, where the fullness of the Gospel would meet a welcome
reception, and all this during the term of one month and five days.

	On the 10th of April I took my departure from the Saints in
Herefordshire and adjoining country, numbering about one hundred and
sixty;

	whom I left rejoicing in the fullness of the Gospel, and hundreds of
others who were ready to be baptized as soon as a proper time and
opportunity arrived. I arrived in Preston on the 13th, by way of
Worcester, Wolverhampton, Burslem, and Manchester, a distance of about one
hundred and seventy miles, visiting the churches by the way.

	On my arrival in Preston, I was blessed with the happy privilege of
once more greeting my brethren of the Traveling High Council and other
Elders, and of sitting with them on the 14th, 15th, and 16th of April in
the first council and general conference which they had ever held, as a
quorum, in a foreign nation. After spending several days together, (during
which time much business of importance was transacted for the Church,) it
became necessary for us again to separate* in order to labor in different
parts of the vineyard which were now open before us. I left Preston on the
17th, accompanied by Elder Brigham Young, and visited the churches by the
way, until we arrived among the Saints in Herefordshire, who were
anxiously looking for my return. In a few days we were joined in our
labors by Elder Willard Richards. We took locations in different parts of
this new field of labor, which extended through various places in
Herefordshire, Worcestershire, and Gloucestershire.

	We continued preaching, and baptizing, and administering in the
ordinances of the Gospel daily, unto such as would receive our testimony,
and obey the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Truth was mighty and prevailed; the
work prospered, and multiplied on every hand, until several hundreds,
including more than fifty preachers of various sects, were rejoicing in
the fullness of the everlasting Gospel, and felt to praise God that they
had lived to behold the day when the Lord had set His hand to prune His
vineyard once more with a mighty pruning, and to establish the Gospel in
its ancient purity again upon the face of the earth; and in many instances
signs followed the believer, according to the promise of the Savior. The
Spirit of God accompanied the preaching of the word to the hearts of men.
Whole households, on hearing the word, have received it into good and
honest hearts, and gone forth and received the ordinances of the Gospel;
and frequently we have baptized from eight to twelve the first time of
meeting with the people in new places, and preaching the word of God to
them.

	Elder Young labored with us about one month, during which time many
were baptized, confirmed, and numbers ordained to preach the Gospel--and
while the Saints were much edified, and their hearts made glad with the
teaching and instruction by Elder Young, I also obtained much benefit
myself by enjoying his society, sitting under his instruction, and sharing
in his counsel.

	As it became necessary for Elder Young to return to Manchester, to
assist in preparing a collection of hymns, and other matters, he took the
parting hand with us on the 20th of May; and Elders Richards and myself
continued our labors in the vineyard, in connection with Elder Kington,
who had given himself wholly to the work of the ministry.


	The Lord still continued to bless our labors, and added daily unto
the Church. New doors were opening on every hand; and multiplicity of
calls constantly reached our ears, many of which we could not answer for
the want of laborers. Notwithstanding there were about fifty ordained
Elders and Priests in this part of the vineyard, yet there were equally as
many places for preaching to be attended to upon the Sabbath day. Thus we
continued our labors in this region until the time drew near for the
general conference in Manchester on the 6th of July.

	But before leaving the Saints, we considered it wisdom to set in
order the church, and organize them into branches and conferences, that
they might be properly represented before the general conference.
Therefore we held two conferences with the Saints before we took our
departure from them. The first was held at the Gadfield Elm Chapel,
Worcestershire, on the 14th of June, at which time we organized twelve
branches, and transacted such business as the occasion required. The
Second conference was held at Stanley Hill, Herefordshire, on the 21st of
June, twenty branches of the Church were organized. The minutes of the
above-named conferences I present you for publication, if you think
proper.

	On the day following, Elder Richards and myself took our leave of the
Saints at Froome's Hill, Herefordshire; but before leaving we repaired to
a pool three times to baptize and confirm numbers that came to us and
requested these ordinances at our hands.

	Elder Richards labored in this part of the vineyard about two months,
during which time he traveled extensively, preached night and day, gave
much instruction to the Saints generally, and had many souls as seals to
his ministry. I received much benefit from the counsel which he gave in
the organization of the churches, and it was manifest that he had passed
through a profitable school of experience during the three years of his
travels in England; and the interesting seasons we have enjoyed together
during these two months, will not be easily erased from my memory.

	It was with no ordinary fellings that we took our departure from the
Saints in Herefordshire on this occasion; for, less than four months
since, I proclaimed the fullness of the Gospel in this region for the
first time; but now, we were leaving between five and six hundred Saints,
who were rejoicing in the new and everlasting covenant, and hundreds of
others who were wishing to hear and obey. I parted from Elder Richards at
Birmingham, who went direct to Manchester, while I visited

	West Bromwich, and preached several times to a small branch of the
Church which had been raised up in that place by Elder Turley, who
baptized several while I was there. I also attended a conference on the
29th June, at Hanley, in the Staffordshire Potteries, in company with
Elder George A. Smith and others, after which I arrived in Manchester.
WILFORD WOODRUFF.

	Manchester, July 9, 1840. Saturday, 11.--The High Council met at my
office, when I taught them principles relating to their duty as a Council,
and that they might be guided by the same in future, I ordered it to be
recorded as follows: "That the Council should try no case without both
parties being present, or having had an opportunity to be present; neither
should they hear one person's complaint before his case is brought up for
trial; neither should they suffer the character of any one to be exposed
before the High Council without the person being present and ready to
defend him or herself; that the minds of the councilors be not prejudiced
for or against any one whose case they may possibly have to act upon."

	William Barrett, aged 17, was ordained an Elder in Hanley,
Staffordshire, England, by Elders George A. Smith and Alfred Cordon, and
took leave for South Australia, being the first Elder who went on a
mission to that country.

	Sunday, 12--Elias Smith was appointed Bishop by the High Council of
Iowa, in place of Alanson Ripley, removed to Nauvoo.

	Monday, 13. Kidnapping of Alanson Brown and Benjamin Boyce--Affidavit
of Daniel H. Wells. STATE OF ILLINOIS, HANCOCK COUNTY.

	This day personally appeared before the undersigned, an acting
justice of the peace, in the aforesaid county, Alanson Brown, who, first
being duly sworn according to law, deposes and says, that on the 7th day
of July, A. D. 1840, and in the county of Hancock, in said state, William
Allensworth, H. M. Woodyard, William Martin, John H. Owsley, John Bain,
Light T. Tait, and Halsay White, in company with several other persons, to
this affiant unknown, forcibly arrested this affiant, and one Benjamin
Boyce, whilst affiant and said Boyce, were quietly pursuing their own
lawful business; and that immediately after said arrest, the said
Allensworth, Woodyard, Martin, Owsley, Bain, Tait, and White, did
illegally and forcibly take, kidnap, and carry this affiant and said
Boyce, bound with cords, from the said county of Hancock, in said state,
on the day and year above set forth, in the county of Lewis, in the state
of Missouri, without having established a claim for such a procedure,
according to the laws of the United States.

	Affiant states that in a short time after he was taken into the state
of Missouri, he was put into a room with said Boyce, and there kept until
about eleven o'clock the following night; when they were taken out of the
room where they had been confined, into the woods, near at hand, by said
Tait, a man by the name of Huner, and another by the name of Monday, and
some others, whose name affiant did not learn; they previously placed a
rope about the neck of the affiant; Huner and Monday then proceeded to
hang the affiant, and did hang him for some time upon a tree, until
affiant was nearly strangled, after which they let him down and loosened
the rope. Shortly after this, affiant heard repeated blows, which
others--belonging to the same gang of Huner--were inflicting upon Boyce,
and he could hear also the cries of Boyce, under the pain arising from the
blows; after which affiant and Boyce were taken back to the room where
they had been confined, in which they found a man by the name of Rogers,
and another by the name of Allred.

	Affiant further states that he was kept in imprisonment by the
persons heretofore named, and others to him unknown, until Friday evening
next ensuing the Tuesday on which Boyce and himself were kidnapped, when
he escaped out of their hands and returned into the state of Illinois.
Affiant had learned that the name of the place in said county of Lewis,
state of Missouri, to which he was taken from the state of Illinois, is
called Tully, to which the said Allensworth, Woodyard, Martin, Owsley,
Bain, Tait and White, have fled as fugitives from justice, and at which
they are now to be found.

	I hereby certify that the foregoing affidavit was this day subscribed
and duly sworn to before me, by said Alanson Brown. DANIEL H. WELLS.
Justice of the Peace, July 13, 1840.

	Statement of James Allred. STATE OF ILLINOIS, HANCOCK COUNTY. This
day personally appeared before the undersigned, an acting Justice of the
Peace, in and for said county, James Allred, a credible witness, who first
being duly sworn according to law, deposes and says that William
Allensworth, John H. Owsley, and William Martin, on the 7th day of July,
1840, within the limits of said county of Hancock, aided by several other
persons, to this affiant unknown, forcibly arrested this affiant and one
Noah Rogers, whilst the affiant and said Rogers were peaceably pursuing
their own lawful business; and that the said Allensworth, Owsley and
Martin, after said arrest, aided by sundry persons, to affiant unknown,
did forcibly take, kidnap and carry this affiant and said Rogers from the
said county of Hancock in the state of Illinois, on the day and year above
mentioned into the state of Missouri, without having established a claim
for such procedure according to the laws of the United States.

	Affiant further states, that in a short time after he had been so
taken into the state of Missouri, he was put into a room with said Rogers,
and there kept until some time during the following night, when they were
taken out of the room where they were confined, into the woods near by,
and this affiant was bound by the persons conducting him, to a tree, he
having been first forcibly stripped by them of every particle of clothing.
Those having him in charge then told affiant that they would whip him; one
of them, by the name of Monday, saying to this affiant, "G--d--n you, I'll
cut you to the hollow." They, however, at last unbound the affiant without
whipping him.

	Affiant states that said Rogers was taken just beyond the place where
affiant was bound with a rope around his neck, and he heard a great number
of blows, which he then supposed, and has since learned were inflicted
upon said Rogers, and heard him cry out several times as if in great
agony; after which affiant, together with Rogers, was taken back and
placed in the room from which they were taken, together with one Boyce and
Brown, and detained until Monday next succeeding the day on which he was
kidnapped; at which time he received from one of the company, who had
imprisoned him, a passport, of which the following is a copy:

	"Tully, Missouri, July 12, 1840. The people of Tully, having taken up
Mr. Allred, with some others, and having examined into the offenses
committed, find nothing to justify his detention any longer, and have
released him. By order of the committee. "H. M. WOODWARD."

	And then this affiant was permitted to return home into the state of
Illinois. This place in Missouri, to which affiant and said Rogers were
taken, he has learned is called Tully, and is situated in of Lewis, and at
which place the said Allensworth, Owsley and Martin are now living.

	I hereby certify that the forgoing affidavit was this day subscribed,
and duly sworn to before me, by the said James Allred. DANIEL H. WELLS,
Justice of the Peace.

	Action of the Citizens of Nauvoo in the Matter of the Kidnapping of
Brown and Boyce by the Missourians.

	At a meeting of the citizens of Nauvoo, Hancock county, Illinois,
13th July, 1840, Judge Elias Higbee was called to the chair, and Robert B.
Thompson was appointed Secretary.

	On motion a committee was appointed to report resolutions, expressive
of the sense of this meeting, consisting of the following persons, to
wit.--Isaac Galland, Robert B. Thompson, Sidney Rigdon, and Daniel H.
Wells, who retired, and after a short absence, reported the following
preamble and resolutions, which were unanimously adopted--


	Report of the Committee on Resolutions. PREAMBLE--The committee
appointed to express the sense of this meeting, in relation to the recent
acts of abduction, and other deeds of cruelty and inhumanity committed
upon our citizens by [some of] the citizens of the state of Missouri, beg
leave respectfully to report.

	That having under consideration the principal matters involve in the
discharge of their duty, they have been forced to arrive at the following
conclusions :

	First--That the people of Missouri, not having sufficiently slacked
their thirst for blood and plunder, are now disposed to pursue us with a
repetition of the scenes of brutality which marked their whole course of
conduct towards us during our unhappy residence among them.

	Second--That notwithstanding they have already robbed us of our
homes, murdered our families, stolen and carried away our property; and to
complete the measure of their infamy as a state, their executive caused
unoffending thousands to be banished from the state, without even the form
of a trial, or the slightest evidence of crime; they are now sending their
gangs of murdering banditti, and thieving brigands, to wreak further
vengeance, and satisfy their insatiable cupidity in the state of Illinois,
and that too before we have even had time to erect shelters for our
families.

	Third--That for the purpose of giving a semblance of justification to
their most unhallowed conduct, the people of Missouri have again commenced
concealing goods within the limits of our settlements, as they had done
before in the state of Missouri, in order to raise a charge of stealing
against our citizens, and under this guise they have within a few days
kidnapped, and carried away, several honest and worthy citizens of this
county.

	Fourth--Under these circumstances the first duty and the only redress
which seems to offer itself to our consideration is an appeal to the
executive of the state of Illinois, for redress, and protection from
further injuries, with a confident assurance that he, unlike the governor
of Missouri, will extend the executive arm to protect from lawless
outrage, unoffending citizens. Therefore,

	Resolved 1st, That we view, with no ordinary feelings, the
approaching danger as a necessary consequence following the lawless and
outrageous conduct of the citizens of Missouri, in setting at defiance the
laws of this, as well as of all other states in this Union, by forcing
from their homes, and from the state, civil citizens of Illinois, and
taking them into the state of Missouri, without any legal process
whatever, and there inflicting upon them base cruelties in order to extort
false confessions from them, to give a coloring to their (the
Missourians') iniquities, and screen themselves from the just indignation
of an incensed public.

	Resolved 2ndly: That while we deeply deplore the cause which has
brought us together on this occasion, we cannot refrain from expressing
our most unqualified disapprobation at the infringement of the laws of
this state, as set forth in the above Preamble, and strongest indignation
at the manner in which the people of Missouri treated those whom they had
thus inhumanly taken from among us.

	Resolved 3rdly: That inasmuch as we are conscious of our honest and
upright intentions, and are at all times ready and willing to submit to
the just requirements of the laws, we claim of the citizens and
authorities of this state, protection from such unjust and, before,
unheard of oppressions.

	Resolved 4thly: That the forcible abduction of our citizens by the
citizens of Missouri, is a violation of the laws regulating the federal
compact, subversive to the rights of freemen, and contrary to our free
institutions, and republican principles.

	Resolved, 5thly: That the cruelties practiced upon our citizens,
since their abduction, is disgraceful to humanity; the height of injustice
and oppression, and would disgrace the annals of the most barbarous
nations, in either ancient or modern times; and can only find its parallel
in the "Auto da Fe"--the inquisitions in Spain.

	Resolved, 6thly: That such unconstitutional and unhallowed
proceedings on the part of the citizens of Missouri, ought to arouse every
patriot to exertion and diligence to put a stop to such procedure, and use
all constitutional means to bring the offenders to justice.

	Resolved, 7thly: That we memorialize the Executive of this state, of
the gross outrage which has been committed on our citizens; and pledge
ourselves to aid him in such measures as may be deemed necessary to
restore our citizens to freedom, and have satisfaction for the wrongs we
have suffered. ELIAS HIGBEE, Chairman, R. B. THOMPSON, Secretary.

	Memorial to Governor Carlin. To his Excellency Governor Carlin:--The
undersigned being a committee to draft a Memorial to your Excellency
relative to the recent outrages, would respectfully represent; that after
being driven from our homes, and pleasant places of abode, in the state of
Missouri, by the authorities of said state, Illinois seemed to be the
first shelter or asylum which presented itself to our view; that having
left the state of Missouri, your memorialists found an asylum in the state
of Illinois; and notwithstanding the false reports which were circulated
to our prejudice, we were received with kindness by the noble hearted
citizens of Illinois; who relieved our necessities, and bade us welcome;
for which kindness we feel thankful.

	That under your Excellency's administration, we have had every
encouragement given us, and have every reason, from the kindness and
sympathy which you have ever manifested towards us in our sufferings, to
feel confident that your aid will ever be offered to us in common with the
rest of the citizens of the state. That feeling ourselves so happy and
secure, and beginning again to enjoy the comforts of life, we are sorry to
say that our quiet has been disturbed, our fears alarmed, and our families
annoyed by the citizens of Missouri; who, with malice and hatred, which is
characteristic of them, have unconstitutionally sent an armed force and
abducted some of our friends, namely, James Allred,

	Noah Rogers, Alanson Brown, and one Boyce, and carried them into the
state of Missouri, and treated them with the greatest barbarity and
cruelty; even now their wives and children, as well as their friends, are
alarmed for the safety of their lives.

	Therefore we have felt it our duty to place the circumstances of this
unheard-of outrage before you, and appeal to your Excellency for
protection from such marauders, and take such measures as you may deem
proper, that our friends may be again restored to the bosom of their
families, and the offenders punished for their crimes.

	We have the greatest confidence in your Excellency, that every
constitutional means will be resorted to, to restore our friends to the
society of their families, &c., that we, in common with other citizens of
the state of Illinois, may enjoy all the rights and privileges of freemen.

	Your memorialists have under all circumstances paid the greatest
respect to the laws of the country, and if any should break the same, they
have never felt a disposition to screen such from justice, but when under
false pretenses, to gratify and satiate a revengeful disposition--for the
citizens of another state, regardless of both the laws of God and man, to
come and kidnap our friends, to carry off our citizens to cruelly treat
our brethren; such offenders, we think, should be brought to an account,
to be dealt with according to their merit or demerit; that we may enjoy
the privileges guaranteed to us by the Constitution of the United States.

	We therefore humbly pray that your Excellency will satisfy yourself
of the gross outrage which has been committed on the citizens of the
state, and with that energy which is so characteristic of your
Excellency's administration, take such steps as you may deem best
calculated to repair the injuries which your memorialists have sustained;
that you will vindicate the injured laws of the state.

	In conclusion, we beg leave to assure your Excellency, that in the
discharge of this, as well as every other constitutional movement, you may
rely upon the hearty cooperation of your memorialists, who respectfully
submit to your Excellency the accompanying Resolutions, which were passed
at a large meeting held in this place on this day, and also the affidavit
of one of those persons who was kidnapped, but fortunately has made his
escape.


                               CHAPTER IX. 
   THE RETURN OF A PRODIGAL--CONDITIONS IN KIRTLAND--"PROGRESS OF THE 
          WORK IN GREAT BRITAIN--THE COMING OF JOHN C. BENNETT.

	AUSTRALIAN MISSION. Extract of a Letter from Elder William Barratt.
DEPTFORD, July 15, 1840. DEAR BROTHER IN CHRIST:--I write to inform you
of my arrival in the metropolis this morning, after a tedious journey in
the midst of much profaneness and swearing, such as I never heard in my
life before. I feel, as the Apostle expresses it, like a lamb among
wolves, going into a land of strangers to preach the Gospel; therefore I
desire your prayers in my behalf. I have witnessed much of the spirit of
revelation since Sunday; in fact, I only thought it a mere thought, when
the Elders testified that they were called by revelation; but now I know
the truth of the assertion, which proves to me who ought to preach, and
that none ought, without they are called by revelation. Give my love to
all the Saints, and tell them that as many as remain faithful I will meet
in Zion, bringing my sheaves with me. Tell them my faith is fixed, and my
resolution is strong to meet you all there whom I love in the Lord. Pray
that a door may be opened, and that a gift of utterance may be given unto
me in a foreign land to preach the Gospel. Brethren, sorrow not for me, as
those that have no hope, for we have a hope of living and eating together
in the kingdom of our God.

	Friday, 17.--By my suggestion, High Council voted that Samuel Bent
and George W. Harris go on a mission to procure money for printing certain
books.

	Saturday, 18.--Elias Smith was ordained a Bishop.

	Sunday, 19.--An answer to Brigham Young's letter of the 17th of May
was sent by Lorenzo Snow, which gave the Twelve permission to publish the
Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and hymn book, but not to ordain
any into the quorum of the Seventies; and likewise some general
instructions.

	Monday, 20.--Elder John Moon and company arrived in New York being
the first arrival of Saints in America.

	Wednesday, 22. The Prophet's Letter to William W. Phelps--Welcoming
him back into the Church.

	NAUVOO, HANCOCK COUNTY, ILLINOIS, July 22, 1840.

	DEAR BROTHER PHELPS:--I must say that it is with no ordinary feelings
I endeavor to write a few lines to you in answer to yours of the 29th
ultimo; at the same time I am rejoiced at the privilege granted me.

	You may in some measure realize what my feelings, as well as Elder
Rigdon's and Brother Hyrum's were, when we read your letter--truly our
hearts were melted into tenderness and compassion when we ascertained your
resolves, &c. I can assure you I feel a disposition to act on your case in
a manner that will meet the approbation of Jehovah' (whose servant I am),
and agreeable to the principles of truth and righteousness which have been
revealed; and inasmuch as long-suffering, patience, and mercy have ever
characterized the dealings of our heavenly Father towards the humble and
penitent, I feel disposed to copy the example, cherish the same
principles, and by so doing be a Savior of my fellow men.

	It is true, that we have suffered much in consequence of your
behavior--the cup of gall, already full enough for mortals to drink, was
indeed filled to overflowing when you turned against us. One with whom we
had oft taken sweet counsel together, and enjoyed many refreshing seasons
from the Lord--"had it been an enemy, we could have borne it." "In the day
that thou stoodest on the other side, in the day when strangers carried
away captive his forces, and foreigners entered into his gates, and cast
lots upon [Far West], even thou wast as one of them; that thou shouldest
not have looked on the day of thy brother, in the day that he became a
stranger, neither shouldst thou have spoken proudly in the day of
distress."

	However, the cup has been drunk, the will of our Father has been
done, and we are yet alive, for which we thank the Lord. And having been
delivered from the hands of wicked men by the mercy of our God, we say it
is your privilege to be delivered from the powers of the adversary, be
brought into the liberty of God's dear children, and again take your stand
among the Saints of the Most High, and by diligence, humility, and love
unfeigned, commend yourself to our God, and your God, and to the Church of
Jesus Christ.

	Believing your confession to be real, and your repentance genuine, I
shall be happy once again to give you the right hand of fellowship, and
rejoice over the returning prodigal.

	Your letter was read to the Saints last Sunday, and an expression of
their feeling was taken, when it was unanimously

	Resolved, That W. W. Phelps should be received into fellowship.

	"Come on, dear brother, since the war is past, For friends at first,
are friends again at last."

	Yours as ever, JOSEPH SMITH, JUN.

	Credentials of Elders Samuel Bent and George W. Harris. To all whom
it may concern:--This is to certify that Elders Samuel Bent and George W.
Harris are authorized agents of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints, being appointed by the First Presidency and High Council of said
Church to visit the branches of the Church in the east, or wherever they
may be led in the providence of God, to obtain donations and subscriptions
for the purpose of printing the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants,
hymn books, the new translation of the Scriptures. They are likewise
instructed and authorized to procure loans in behalf of the Church, for
carrying into operation the above and other important works necessary to
the well being of said Church.

	From our long acquaintance with these our beloved brethren, their
long, tried friendship under circumstances the most trying and painful ,
their zeal for the cause of truth, and their strict morality and honesty
we most cheerfully recommend them to the Saints of the Most High. Any
statements they may make relative to their mission may be implicitly
relied upon, and any loans which they may obtain, will be considered
binding on the Church. And we do hope the Saints will do all In their
power to effect the object proposed, and lift up the hands of our beloved
brethren who have cheerfully come forward to engage in a work so great and
important. Joseph Smith, Jun., President.   Hyrum Smith, William Marks,
Newel Knight, Elias Higbee, Alpheus Cutler. David Dort, Henry G. Sherwood,
Charles C. Rich, David Fullmer, Seymour Brunson, Thomas Grover, William
Huntington, Lewis D. Wilson.

	The Prophet's Letter to Oliver Granger--Dealing Chiefly with Affairs
at Kirtland.

	Brother Granger: DEAR SIR:--It was with great pleasure I received
your and Brother Richards' letter, dated New York, June 23, 1840, and was
very happy to be informed of your safe arrival in that place, and your
probability of success; and I do hope that your anticipations will be
realized, and that you will be enabled to free the Lord's House from all
incumbrances, and be prospered in all your undertakings for the benefit of
the Church; and pray that while you are exerting your influence to bring
about an object so desirable, that the choicest blessings of heaven may
rest down upon you, while you are endeavoring to do so, and attending to
the duties laid upon you by the authorities of the Church in this place.

	I am sorry to be informed not only in your letter, but from other
respectable sources, of the strange conduct pursued in Kirtland by Elder
Almon W. Babbitt. I am indeed surprised that a man having the experience
which Brother Babbitt has had, should take any steps whatever, calculated
to destroy the confidence of the brethren in the Presidency or any of the
authorities of the Church.

	In order to conduct the affairs of the Kingdom in righteousness, it
is all important that the most perfect harmony, kind feeling, good
understanding, and confidence should exist in the hearts of all the
brethren; and that true charity, love one towards another, should
characterize all their proceedings. If there are any uncharitable
feelings, any lack of confidence, then pride, arrogance and envy will soon
be manifested; confusion must inevitably prevail, and the authorities of
the Church set at naught; and under such circumstances, Kirtland cannot
rise and free herself from the captivity in which she is held, and become
a place of safety for the Saints, nor can the blessings of Jehovah rest
upon her.

	If the Saints in Kirtland deem me unworthy of their prayers when they
assemble together, and neglect to bear me up at the throne of heavenly
grace, it is a strong and convincing proof to me that they have not the
Spirit of God. If the revelations we have received are true, who is to
lead the people? If the keys of the Kingdom have been committed to my
hands, who shall open out the mysteries thereof?

	As long as my brethren stand by me and encourage me, I can combat he
prejudices of the world, and can bear the contumely and abuse with joy;
but when my brethren stand aloof, when they begin to faint, and endeavor
to retard my progress and enterprise, then I feel to mourn, but am no less
determined to prosecute my task, being confident that although my earthly
friends may fail, and even turn against me, yet my Heavenly Father will
bear me off triumphant.

	However, I hope that even in Kirtland there are some who do not make
a man an offender for a word, but are disposed to stand forth in defense
of righteousness and truth, and attend to every duty enjoined upon them;
and who will have wisdom to direct them against any movement or influence
calculated to bring confusion and discord into the camp of Israel, and to
discern between the spirit of truth and the spirit of error.

	It would be gratifying to my mind to see the Saints in Kirtland
flourish, but think the time is not yet come; and I assure you it never
will until a different order of things be established and a different
spirit manifested. When confidence is restored, when pride shall fall, and
every aspiring mind be clothed with humility as with a garment, and
selfishness give place to benevolence and charity, and a united
determination to live by every word which proceedeth out of the mouth of
the Lord is observable, then, and not till then, can peace, order and love
prevail.

	It is in consequence of aspiring men that Kirtland has been forsaken.
How frequently has your humble servant been envied in his office by such
characters, who endeavored to raise themselves to power at his expense,
and seeing it impossible to do so, resorted to foul slander and abuse, and
other means to effect his overthrow. Such characters have ever been the
first to cry out against the Presidency, and publish their faults and
foibles to the four winds of heaven.

	I cannot forget the treatment I received in the house of my friends.
These things continually roll across my mind, and cause me much sorrow of
heart; and when I think that others who have lately come into the Church
should be led to Kirtland instead of to this place, by Elder Babbitt; and
having their confidence in the authorities lessened by such observations
as he (Elder Babbitt) has thought proper to make, as well as hearing all
the false reports and exaggerated accounts of our enemies--I must say that
I feel grieved in spirit, and cannot tolerate such proceedings--neither
will I; but will endeavor to disabuse the minds of the Saints, and break
down all such unallowed proceedings.

	It was something new to me when I heard there had been secret
meetings held in the Lord's House, and that some of my friends--faithful
brethren--men enjoying the confidence of the Church, should be locked out.
Such proceedings are not calculated to promote union, or peace, but to
engender strife; and will be a curse instead of a blessing. To those who
are young in the work, I know they are calculated to be, and must be,
injurious. Those who have had experience, and who should know better than
to reflect on their brethren--there is no excuse for them.

	If Brother Babbitt and the other brethren wish to reform the Church,
and come out and make a stand against sin and speculation, &c., they must
use other weapons than lies, or their object can never be effected;

	and their labors will be given to the house of the stranger, rather
than to the House of the Lord.

	The proceedings of Brother Babbitt were taken into consideration at a
meeting of the Church at this place, when it was unanimously resolved,
that fellowship should be withdrawn from him until he make satisfaction
for the course he has pursued, of which circumstance I wish you to apprise
him without delay, and demand his license.

	Dear sir, I wish you to stand in your lot, and keep the station which
was given you by revelation and the authorities of the Church. Attend to
the affairs of the Church with diligence, and then rest assured of the
blessings of heaven. It is binding on you to act as president of the
Church in Kirtland, until you are removed by the same authority which put
you in; and I do hope there will be no cause for opposition, but that good
feeling will be manifested in future by all the brethren.

	Brother Burdick's letter to Brother Hyrum was duly received, for
which he has our best thanks; it was indeed an admirable letter, and
worthy of its author. The sentiments expressed were in accordance with the
spirit of the Gospel, and the principles are correct.

	I am glad that Brother Richards has continued with you, and hope he
has been of some service to you. Give my love to him.

	Our prospects in this place continue good. Considerable numbers have
come in this spring. There were some bickerings respecting your conduct
soon after your departure, but they have all blown over, and I hope there
will never be any occasion for any more; but that you will commend
yourself to God and to the Saints by a virtuous walk and holy
conversation.

	I had a letter from William W. Phelps a few days ago, informing me of
his desire to come back to the Church, if we would accept of him. He
appears very humble, and is willing to make every satisfaction that Saints
or God may require.

	We expect to have an edition of the Book of Mormon printed by the
first of September; it is now being stereotyped in Cincinnati. I am, &c.,
&c., JOSEPH SMITH, JUN.

	An interesting memorial concerning the Jews, "To the Protestant
Powers of Europe and America," signed and sealed in London the 8th of
January, 1839, may be found in the Millennial Star, Vol. I, No. 6.

	Sunday, 24.--Elder William Donaldson, member of the British army
bound for the East Indies, writes from Chatham, 24th of July, "We go on
board tomorrow.  I have had a glorious vision about going into the land of
Egypt."

	Saturday, 25.

	Letter of John C. Bennett to Joseph Smith and Sidney
Rigdon--Announcing His Intention to Join the Saints.

	FAIRFIELD, ILLINOIS, July 25, 1840.

	REVEREND AND DEAR FRIENDS:--The last time I wrote you was during the
pendency of your difficulties with the Missourians. You are aware that at
that time I held the office of "Brigadier-General of the Invincible
Dragoons" of this state, and proffered you my entire energies for your
deliverance from a ruthless and savage, though cowardly foe; but the Lord
came to your rescue, and saved you with a powerful arm. I am happy to find
that you are now in a civilized land, and in the enjoyment of peace and
happiness.

	Some months ago I resigned my office with an intention of removing to
your town, and joining your people; but hitherto I have been prevented. I
hope, however, to remove to Commerce, and unite with your Church next
spring. I believe I should be much happier with you. I have many things to
communicate which I would prefer doing orally; and I propose to meet you
in Springfield on the first Monday in December next, as I shall be there
at the time on state and United States business.

	If I remove to Commerce, I expect to follow my profession, and to
that end I enclose you a slip from the Louisville Journal, to give you an
idea of my professional standing.

	On the first of this month I was appointed to the office of
"Quartermaster-General of the State of Illinois," which office I expect to
hold some years.

	I hope you are all quite well. In haste. Write me immediately. Yours
respectfully, JOHN C. BENNETT.

	To Messrs. Smith and Rigdon.

	Monday, 27.

	Letter of John C. Bennett to Messrs. Smith and Rigdon--Making Further
Tender of his Services to the Church.

	QUARTERMASTER-GENERAL'S OFFICE, FAIRFIELD, ILLINOIS, July 27, 1840.

	To the Reverends Sidney Rigdon and Joseph Smith, Jun.:

	RESPECTED FRIENDS:--I wrote you a few days ago from this place, but
my great desire to be with you and your people prompts me to write again
at this time; and I hope it will not be considered obtrusive by friends
whom I have always so highly esteemed as yourselves.

	At the last District and Circuit Court of the United States, holden
at Springfield, in June last, I had the honor of being on the grand
inquest of the United States for the District of Illinois, and hoped to
have seen you there; but was quite disappointed. I attended the meeting of
your people opposite Mr. Lowry's hotel, but did not make myself known, as
I had no personal acquaintance in the congregation.

	It would be my deliberate advice to you to concentrate all of your
Church at one point. If Hancock county, with Commerce for its commercial
emporium, is to be that point, well; fix upon it, and let us cooperate
with a general concerted action. You can rely upon me in any event. I am
with you in spirit, and will be in person as soon as circumstances permit,
and immediately if it is your desire. Wealth is no material object with
me. I desire to be happy, and am fully satisfied that can enjoy myself
better with your people, with my present views and feelings, than with any
other. I hope that time will soon come when your people will become my
people, and your God my God.

	At the time of your peril and bitter persecution in Missouri, you are
aware I proffered you my utmost energies, and had not the conflict
terminated so speedily, I should have been with you then. God be thanked
for your rescue from the hand of a savage, but cowardly foe! I do not
expect to resign my office of "Quartermaster-General of the State of
Illinois" in the event of my removal to Commerce, unless you advise
otherwise. I shall likewise expect to practice my profession; but at the
same time your people shall have all the benefit of my speaking powers,
and my untiring energies in behalf of the good and holy faith. Un
necessariis unitas, in non necessariis libertas, in omnibus charitas,
shall be my motto with--Suaviter in modo, fortiter in re.

	Be so good as to inform me substantially of the population of
Commerce and Hancock county, the face of the country, climate, soil,
health, &c., &c. How many of your people are concentrated there? Please to
write me in full immediately. Louisville paper will accompany this; please
inquire for it.

	With sentiments of profound respect and esteem, suffer me to
subscribe myself, Yours respectfully, JOHN C. BENNETT.

	Elder John Taylor sailed for Ireland from Liverpool.+ Tuesday, 28.

	Letter of the Prophet to Horace R. Hotchkiss--Rock River Lands and
the White Purchase.

	NAUVOO, July 28, 1840.

	Horace R. Hotchkiss, Esq.:

	DEAR SIR:--I acknowledge the receipt of yours of last month, giving
me the numbers of the land on Rock River, which you felt disposed to sell.
In reply to which I have to say, that we have not yet examined the land,
and consequently have not arrived at any conclusion respecting it; but it
is probable that some of my friends will visit it this fall, and if we
should think it wisdom to locate there, or on the other tract, you will be
informed of the same, and arrangements entered into.

	I am sorry that your health has been so poor, but hope, ere this, you
are perfectly recovered. It would afford me great pleasure indeed, could I
hold out any prospect of the two notes due next month being met at
maturity, or even this fall. Having had considerable difficulty
(necessarily consequent on a new settlement) to contend with, as well as
poverty and considerable sickness, our first payment will be probably
somewhat delayed, until we again get a good start in the world; and I am
happy to say, the prospect is indeed favorable. Under these circumstances
we shall have to claim your indulgence, which I have no doubt will be
extended. However, every exertion on our part shall be made to meet the
demands against us, so that if we cannot accomplish all we wish to, it
will be our misfortune, and not our fault. Notwithstanding the
impoverished condition of our people, and the adverse circumstances under
which we have had to labor, I hope we shall eventually rise above them,
and again enjoy the blessings of health, peace, and plenty.

	You were informed in a former letter that we had paid Mr. William
White the one thousand dollars specified in your bond; a few days ago be
called at this place and agreed to give us a deed for the ninety acres,
(less one-half acre), providing I would give him an identifying bond, and
pay the interest due from you to him on the one thousand dollars, which I
agreed to do I have therefore got the deed for the land, and paid him the
interest. My reasons for so doing were these: there are some who wish to
purchase lots, providing they can get a good title deed for the same, and
who would be induced to make purchases and make an effort to raise money,
for the sake of getting a deed; which effort they would not be so likely
to make if we could only give them a bond. This I think will work both to
your advantage and ours, and hope that we shall be able by and by to make
some cash sales.

	I hope this arrangement with Mr. White will meet your approbation,
although it is a departure from the common rules of business; but was
induced to do so from the advantages which will result from it, which I
hope will be mutual. The amount of interest paid to Mr. White, after
deducting $61.50, which was coming from him to you for rents, was
eighty-four dollars and forty cents. Mr. White told us that you agreed to
pay him as much interest for the money as he could get elsewhere. We
accordingly (in good faith) allowed him at the rate of ten per cent.
Hoping the course pursued will meet your approbation.

	I am, respectfully, your obedient servant, JOSEPH SMITH, JUN.

	P. S.--You will recollect the verbal agreement entered into by us,
that the notes for the interest would not be exacted for at least five
years. Notwithstanding which, we use our endeavors to meet them as fast as
possible, and think that when I have the pleasure of seeing you again, you
will be fully satisfied with the course we have taken, and our endeavors
to meet all our engagements. J. S., JUN.

	Thursday, 30. Letter of John C. Rennett to Messrs. Smith and
Rigdon--Expressing Anxiety to be with the Saints. FAIRFIELD, WAYNE COUNTY,
Illinois, July 30th, 1840. To Reverends Sidney Rigdon, and Joseph Smith,
Jun.

	RESPECTED FRIENDS:--It is with difficulty that I can forego the
felicity of an immediate immersion into the true faith of your beloved
people. I have written you several letters, and forwarded you several
newspapers to Commerce, which I hope will be duly received, as they
contain some matters of importance.

	Is Nauvoo, or Commerce, to be the general point of concentration for
the Mormon people? For at that point I desire to locate, and ever remain.
My anxiety to be with you is daily increasing, and I shall wind up my
professional business immediately, and proceed to your blissful abode, if
you think it best.

	Look at all my letters and papers and write me forthwith. You are
aware that at the time of your most bitter persecutions, I was with you in
feeling, and proffered you my military knowledge and prowess. My faith is
still strong. I believe the God of the whole earth will avenge your wrong
in time as well as in eternity.

	O my friends, go on and prosper; and may the God of all grace save
you with an everlasting salvation. Yours respectfully, J. C. BENNETT.
	Saturday, August 1.--In the Times and Seasons of this month I find
the following:

	A voice from the holy city--rebuilding of the temple of
Solomon--Recall of the people of God to the land of Judah.

	We have received by the last packet from England, a copy of a very
extraordinary "Circular" issued by the Jews, now residing at Jerusalem,
and addressed to all the descendants of Abraham to the uttermost ends of
the earth. It is written in the pure Hebrew character, and accompanied
with an English translation, which we annex as matter of the deepest
curiosity to the people of this country. Next week, if we possibly can, we
shall publish the original Hebrew in a double sheet, but at present we
must content ourselves with the translation.--Morning Herald.

	CIRCULAR. "To our Brethren the Israelites of Europe and America:
	"The liberal and benevolent contributors towards every holy and pious
purpose--ready to stand in the breach and evince their love for the Land
of Promise' to the well-wishers of Jerusalem, and friends of Zion (dearer
to us than life) who extend their bounteous aid to this Holy City, and
devote their best means, in love and affection, 'to take pity on her
stones, and show mercy to her dust.' To the illustrious and excellent
Rabbies--to their worthy and distinguished Assessors--to the noble Chiefs
and faithful Leaders of Israel; to all congregations devoted o the Lord,
and to every member thereof--health, life, and prosperity. May the Lord
vouchsafe His protection unto them; may they rejoice and be exceedingly
glad; and with their own eyes may they behold when the Lord restoreth
Zion. Such be His gracious will. Amen.

	"It is a fact well known throughout Judah and Israel, that `the glory
altogether departed from the daughter of Zion,' since upwards of one
hundred years ago, the congregation of German Jews in this Holy City were
forcibly deprived of their homes and inheritance. Dreadful and grievous
was the yoke under which the despots of this land oppressed them. Tyranny
and cruel usage ground them to the dust, and forced them to forsake their
habitations, to abandon their houses and all their property, and to seek
safety in flight. Thus the large court they inherited from their ancestors
remained deserted and uninhabited, until it was seized upon and possessed
by aliens. The sacred edifices it contained, namely, the Synagogue and
Medrash, were by them demolished, the whole of the property utterly
ruined, and possessions, lawfully ours, devastated before our eyes. Then
did our souls refuse all consolation! For how could we bear to witness the
evil which befell our people!

	"As the light gleams forth from a spark, so did our congregation take
heart and return again to form their establishments, and to take root on
the Holy Mount. But we could find no rest for our wearied feet--no place
consecrated and appointed for our prayer and instruction. Our aching eyes
beheld how every nation and tongue, even from the most distant isles of
the ocean, is here possessed of structures defended by walls, gates, and
portcullis, whilst the people of the Lord, forcibly expelled from their
inheritances by rapacious barbarians, were covered with obloquy, scorn,
and disgrace.

	"The cries of the people ascended unto the Lord who dwelleth in Zion.
He looked down, and in pity beheld their sufferings and oppression. And
ever since the ruler of Egypt first assumed the government of the Holy
Land--a ruler who maintains justice throughout his dominions--an edict was
issued permitting Jews to do whatsoever they deemed right and expedient,
with respect to the rebuilding of their demolished synagogues and
colleges. Us, likewise, the Lord in His mercy vouchsafed to remember, and
caused us to be reinstated into the heritage of our fathers, even to the
aforementioned court, which is called the Ruin of R. Jehudah the Pious (of
blessed memory).

	"Blessed be the Lord our God, the God of our fathers, who inspired
the heart of the ruler of Egypt to restore unto us the possessions of our
ancestors. Nor did we delay or lose time in the matter, but exerted
ourselves to rebuild Jerusalem.

	"`We fenced it, and gathered up the stones thereof,' and the sacred
undertaking prospered in our hands, so that we have completed the Medrash,
and `great is the glory of the house;' and also houses for the teachers of
the law, and for the hospitable reception and entertainment of strangers,
which were indispensably necessary to accommodate the many pious
Israelites who visit the Holy City during the festivals. And on Rosh
Hodesh Shebath last we joyfully placed a Sepher Torah in the Medrash,
which we consecrated by the name of `Menahem Zion,' for the Lord has
vouchsafed to comfort His people.

	"But although we have thus, under the blessings of Providence,
retrieved from devastation a part of the possessions bequeathed unto us by
our pious ancestors, yet our hearts are afflicted and our eyes are dimmed
when we behold the sanctuary of our Lord, the Synagogue, which still lies
in ruins; nor is it in the power of all of us (the German Congregation) to
rebuild it; for alas! great is the number of our poor who stand in need of
bread, and the debts we contracted in building the Medrash are large, and
weigh heavily upon us.

	"The cause of our grief is thus ever present to our eyes--the rains
of the Synagogue are heaped in the middle of the court, and rank weeds
spread over the consecrated pile. We therefore deem it our bounden duty to
dispatch a messenger unto our brethren, the children of Israel, who are
dispersed and in exile, in order to acquaint them with `the salvation of
the Lord in the land,' so that they may arise and take pity on Zion, for
it is time to show mercy unto her.

	"To undertake this laborious duty was the voluntary offer of our
dearly beloved friend, that profound and renowned Rabbi, the zealous and
honorable Aaron Selig Ashkenazi. He is a man confirmed in the fear of the
Lord, of a faithful stock; and him we depute as our messenger, worthy of
all trust, to make proclamation unto the communities of Israel 'according
to the sight which he has seen in the Holy Mount,' and to him we have
given letters of authorization, containing full particulars as to his
pious mission, and every necessary information relating thereto.

	"Now, therefore, let the righteous behold and rejoice. Let the pious
exult and triumph in gladness. The day ye have so long hoped for is come,
and ye sec it. The crown of holiness will again adorn its former abode.
Therefore, arise, and take upon yourselves, according to the words of this
letter, to devote a portion of your wealth as a sacred tribute towards
erecting 'the Temple of the Most Holy King on the mountain of the
Lord'--that ye may have a portion and a righteous record in Jerusalem.

	"Let no one among you refuse his aid, but let the poor man contribute
his mite for himself and his household freely, as the rich dispenses the
bounty wherewith the Lord hath blessed him. Let fathers and their
offspring, the aged and the youthful, alike arise in mercy to Zion at this
propitious season.

	"Let each man encourage his neighbor and say, `We will be zealous and
persevering for our people and the City of our God. And for the love of
Zion, and the sake of Jerusalem, we will not rest nor be easy until
Jerusalem is praised throughout the earth, and foremost in our joys, even
as we have vowed'--If I forget thee, Jerusalem, let my right hand forget
her cunning; if I prefer not Jerusalem above my chief joy.'

	"Such are the words of your brethren who address you for the glory of
God, and for the honor of His land, His people and His
inheritance--continually praying for our exiled brethren, and offering up
our orisons on holy ground and particularly near the Western Wall, that it
may be well with you everlastingly as you yourself desire, and we most
sincerely wish.

	"Signed at Jerusalem, the 18th day of year 5597 a.m., by the Wardens
of the Medrash, and members of the Building Committee, on behalf of the
Congregation of German Jews in this Holy City. ["Signed] HIRSH JOSEPH,
"DAVID REUBEN, "NATHAN SADDIS, "ABRAHAM S. SALMONS, "MORDECAI AVIGDOR,
"URIAH S. HYAM.

	The undersigned Assessors of the Bethdin, by the direction of the

	Rev. Chief Rabbi, hereby certify that Rev. Aaron Selig Ashkenazi is
actually deputed for the purpose mentioned in the above circular.

	"London, the 7th Tebath, "24 Dec. 5599. "ISRAEL LEVY, "AARON LEVY,
"A. L. BARNETT."

	Monday, August 3.--Elders Wilford Woodruff and George A. Smith are at
Ledbury, Herefordshire.

	Tuesday, 4.--Elder Heber C. Kimball left Manchester for
Herefordshire, and Joseph Fielding is at Bedford.

	Wednesday, 5. Extract of a Letter from Wilford Woodruff to the Editor
of the Millennial Star-Reporting Labors.

	BELOVED BRETHREN:--Since Elder George A. Smith and myself left
Manchester for the purpose of going to the south of England, we have
visited the churches which lay in our route, and found them universally
prospering and receiving additions.

	We preached in Leek on Sunday, July 10th, and Elder Smith baptized
six persons after meeting' and numbers were also baptized in the churches
at the Staffordshire Potteries while we were there. We passed through West
Bromwich and Birmingham, and found numbers who were anxiously wishing for
some of the Elders to visit that region and labor among them. We arrived
in Ludbury, Herefordshire, July 22nd, and here spent about two weeks in
visiting the churches through this region, and I am happy to inform you,
that we have found the Saints universally rejoicing in the truth, and the
work progressing upon every hand.

	Elder Thomas Richardson has baptized about forty since he came, and
Elder William Kay about twenty; they are both much blessed in their
labors. Elder Kington is laboring constantly in this wide field, which is
under his care; and he with the Elders and Priests generally throughout
this region are blessed with many souls as seals of their ministry. We
baptized forty on Sunday last in this region, making 259 since the
conference. The churches here now number about 800 members and appear [to
be] in a very prosperous state. We are expecting Elder Kimball every hour,
and soon after his arrival we shall leave the Saints in this region, for
the purpose of visiting the city of London and warning the inhabitants
thereof. WILFORD WOODRUFf

	Saturday, 8.--Soon after the July conference at Manchester, Elder
Parley P. Pratt started for America for the purpose of getting his family
and taking them to England, meantime leaving the Star in charge of
President Brigham Young, assisted by Elder Willard Richards.

	The Prophet's Letter to John C. Bennett--Bidding Him Welcome to
Nauvoo, to partake of--its Poverty. NAUVOO, HANCOCK COUNTY, ILLINOIS,
August 8th, 1840.

	DEAR SIR:--Yours of the 25th ultimo, addressed to Elder Rigdon and
myself, is received, for which you have our thanks, and to which I shall
feel great pleasure in replying.

	Although I have not the pleasure of your acquaintance, yet from the
kindness manifested towards our people when in bondage and oppression, and
from the frank and noble mindedness breathed in your letter. I am brought
to the conclusion that you are a friend to suffering humanity and truth.

	To those who have suffered so much abuse, and borne the cruelties and
insults of wicked men so long, on account of those principles which we
have been instructed to teach to the world, a feeling of sympathy and
kindness is something like the refreshing breeze and cooling stream at the
present season of the year, and are, I assure you, duly appreciated by us.

	It would afford me much pleasure to see you at this place, and from
the desire you express in your letter to move to this place, I hope I
shall soon have that satisfaction.

	I have no doubt you would be of great service to this community in
practicing your profession, as well as those other abilities of which you
ate in possession. Since to devote your time and abilities in the cause of
truth and a suffering people may not be the means of exalting you in the
eyes of this generation, or securing you the riches of the world, yet by
so doing you may rely on the approval of Jehovah, "that blessing which
maketh rich and addeth no sorrow." Through the tender mercies of our God
we have escaped the hands of those who sought our overthrow, and have
secure locations in this state, and in the territory of Iowa. Our
principal location is at this place, Nauvoo, (formerly Commerce), which is
beautifully situated on the banks of the Mississippi, immediately above
the lower rapids, and is probably the best and most beautiful site for a
city on the river. It has a gradual ascent from the river nearly a mile,
then a fine, level, and fertile prairie--a situation in every respect
adapted to commercial and agricultural pursuits, but like all other places
on the river, is sickly in summer.

	The number of inhabitants is nearly three thousand, and is fast
increasing. If we are suffered to remain,* there is every prospect of its
becoming one of the largest cities on the river, if not in the western
world. Numbers have moved in from the seaboard, and a few from the islands
of the sea (Great Britain).

	It is our intention to commence the erection of some public buildings
next spring. We have purchased twenty thousand acres in the Iowa Territory
opposite this place, which is fast filling up with our people. I desire
all the Saints, as well as all lovers of truth and correct principles, to
come to this place as fast as possible, or [as rapidly as] their
circumstances will permit, and endeavor, by energy of action and
concentration of talent, &c., &c., to effect those objects, that are so
dear to us. Therefore my general invitation is, Let all that will, come,
and partake of the poverty of Nauvoo freely.

	I should be disposed to give you a special invitation to come as
early as possible, believing you will be of great service to us; however,
you must make arrangements according to your circumstances. Were it
possible for you to come here this season to suffer affliction with the
people of God, no one will be more pleased to give you a more cordial
welcome than myself.

	A charter has been obtained from the legislature for a railroad from
Warsaw, being immediately below the rapids of the Mississippi, to this
place--a distance of about twenty miles, which if carried into operation
will be of incalculable advantage to this place, as steamboats can only
ascend the rapids at a high stage of water. The soil is good, and I think
not inferior to any in the state. Crops are abundant in this section of
country--and I think provisions will be reasonable.

	I should be very happy could I make arrangements to meet you in
Springfield at the time you mention--but cannot promise myself that
pleasure. If I should not, probably you can make it convenient to come and
pay us a visit here, prior to your removal.

	Elder Rigdon is very sick, and has been for nearly twelve months with
the fever and ague, which disease is very prevalent here at this time. At
present he is not able to leave his room. Yours, &c., JOSEPH SMITH, JUN.
To J. C. Bennett, M. D. P. S.--Yours of the 30th is just received, in
which I am glad to learn that your increasing desire to unite yourself
with a people "that are -------

	*"If we are suffered to remain" sounds somewhat prophetic and
ominous.

	everywhere spoken against," and the anxiety you feel for our
welfare--for which you have my best feelings; and I pray that my heavenly
Father will pour out His choicest blessings in this world, and enable you
by His grace to overcome the evils which are in the world, that you may
secure a blissful immortality in the world that is to come. J. S., JUN.

	August 10.--Colonel Seymour Brunson, aged forty years, ten months and
twenty-three days, died at Nauvoo. Colonel Brunson was among the first
settlers of this place. He has always been a lively stone in the building
of God and was much respected by his friends and acquaintances. He died in
the triumph of faith, and in his dying moments bore testimony to the
Gospel that he had embraced.

	Saturday, 15. Letter of John C. Bennett to Messrs. Smith and
Rigdon--Announcing that he will soon be in Nauvoo. WAYNE COUNTY ILLINOIS,
August 15, 1840. Reverends Joseph Smith, Jun., and Sidney Rigdon.

	RESPECTED FRIENDS:--I have written you several communications to
Commerce and Nauvoo, supposing they were different places, but a brother
to a lady in your community, now in this place, informs me that they are
one and the same.

	I have received no reply to my letters, and attribute the delay to a
press of business or professional absence. I have come to the conclusion
to join your people immediately, and take up my abode with you. Let us
adopt as our motto--Licut partribus sit Deus nobius--(as God was with our
fathers, so may He be with us), and adapt the means to the end, and the
victory is ours.  The winged warrior of the air will not cease to be our
proud emblem of liberty, and the dogs of war will be forever chained.

	I shall be with you in about two weeks, and shall devote my time and
energies to the advancement of the cause of truth and virtue, and the
advocacy of the holy religion which you have so nobly defended, and so
honorably sustained.

	My love to all the brethren. With sentiments of fraternal regard.
Yours respectfully, J. C. BENNETT.


                               CHAPTER X. 
       A MISSOURI KIDNAPPING--CONTINUED DEVELOPMENT OF THE WORK IN 
          GREAT BRITAIN--THE DEATH OF JOSEPH SMITH, SEN., FIRST 
                         PATRIARCH OF THE CHURCH.

	Monday, 17.--Met with the High Council of Nauvoo at my office, also
the High Council of Iowa. John Batten preferred many charges against
Elijah Fordham. After the testimony, and the councillors had spoken, I
addressed the Council at some length, showing the situation of the
contending parties, that there was in reality no cause of difference; that
they had better be reconciled without an action, or vote of the Council,
and henceforth live as brethren, and never more mention their former
difficulties. They settled accordingly.

	Tuesday, 18.--Elders Kimball, Woodruff, and George A. Smith left
Cheltenham for London, one hundred and ten miles, where they arrived in
seven and a half hours, at William Allgood's, No. 19 King Street, Borough,
and were kindly received by Mrs. Allgood, who took them to the King's Arms
Inn.

	Great distress is prevailing in Ireland; no work, and provisions very
scarce.

	The truth is spreading rapidly in England and Scotland.

	Friday, 21--Testimony of Benjamin Boyce:

	The Kidnapping of Benjamin Boyce, Mr. Brown, et al. Left my home in
Nauvoo to go to Adams county, where I had lived the summer before, for the
purpose of meeting some debts. I fell in company with a Mr. Brown, who
stated to me that he was in search of some horses that had strayed from
him. We had not proceeded far together, before we were hailed by twelve
armed men, who demanded of us where we were going. I stated to them where
I was going, and likewise Mr. Brown stated his business. They then asked
if we were "Mormons; "we said we were; they then said that we could go no
further; they said they were sworn to kill all the damned "Mormons" that
they could find, and took us prisoners, tied us with ropes, and took us to
a boat, and four of the company (one by the name of Martin, the others not
known) took us to Missouri, to a little town called Tully, where we were
put under guard, and kept till 11 o'clock in the evening, when three men
came to us with a long rope, and tied it round each of our necks. I asked
them what they were going to do with us; one said they were going to take
us to the river, kill us, and make catfish bait of us, his name was Uno.
They then led us to the woods, I should think about three-quarters of a
mile distant; they then parted us, took and stripped me naked, and tied me
fast to a tree; one of the company cocked a pistol and placed it close to
my ear, and swore, if I attempted to get away, that he would blow out my
brains. They then commenced to whip me with large gads which they had for
the purpose, and literally mangled me from my shoulders to my knees.

	There were in the company, as near as I could recollect, twelve or
fourteen: they were stripped of their hats and coats, with their sleeves
rolled up, and collars open, which made them look like murderers and
robbers. The names, as far as I can recollect, Monday, Uno, and Martin;
the others I do not recollect. After keeping me tied in this condition I
should think an hour and a half, they then brought Mr. Brown to me, and
after some consultation, loosed me from the tree where I was tied, and led
us back to the town, put us in a room where I saw Noah Rogers and James
Allred. They then tied them about the neck, and led them out, and in the
course of the night, they brought them back to the room where we were.

	Brother Rogers said they stripped him, and whipped him very badly.
This was on the seventh of July. The next day Rogers and myself were taken
before a magistrate; nothing proven against us, only that we were
"Mormons:" and we were ordered to prison. Brown and Allred, by some means,
were liberated, but we (Rogers and myself) were put in jail and put in
irons until the 21st of August, when through the kindness of God we made
our escape and returned to Nauvoo. BENJAMIN BOYCE.

	Sunday, 23.--Ten persons who had been baptized were confirmed at
Carpenter's Hall, Manchester. * -------

	* The entry of the text is the only one made in the Prophet's
manuscript history for the 23rd of August, but "Uncle" John Smith, brother
of the Prophet's father,

	Saturday, 29----Elder Kimball writes: "The brethren are beginning to
excite attention in some of the public grounds in London." Out-door
preaching is common in England.

	Sunday, 30.--Twenty were confirmed at the hall in Manchester.*

	Elders Kimball, Woodruff, and George A. Smith, after having spent ten
days visiting the clergymen and preachers and others of the several
denominations, asking the privilege of preaching in their chapels, and
being continually refused by them in a contemptuous manner, they
determined to preach in the open air, Jonah-like; and accordingly went to
Smithfield Market+ (to the spot where John Rogers++ was burnt at the
stake), for the purpose of preaching at 10 a.m., -------

	and formerly president of Adam-ondi-Ahman stake of Zion, in Missouri,
makes the following entry in his journal:

	"Attended meeting at Nashville. Joseph and Hyrum Smith present and a
large assembly of saints, who voted to commence building a city at
Nashville and a place of worship." Nashville, by the way, was situated in
Lee county, Iowa, on the Mississippi river, at the head of the Des Moines
Rapids, about three miles southeast of Montrose, eight miles north of
Keokuk. The Church had purchased twenty thousand acres of land in this
vicinity and surveyed out of it a townsite on which a number of saints
located.

	* Again from the journal of "Uncle" John Smith we learn that on the
30th day of August, the Prophet Joseph was in Nashville and preached on
"Eternal Judgment and the Eternal Duration of Matter. "

	*Smithfield is noted for other historical incidents than being the
scene of John Rogers" martyrdom. It is an open space of nearly six acres
in London, England. It was formerly used as a market place, but is now
partially laid out in gardens. It was the scene of Bartholomew Fair;
William Wallace was executed there; it was the place of the meeting of Wat
Tyler and King Richard II, in 1380, when the former was stabbed by the
Mayor of London, and then dispatched by the King's attendants It was the
scene of many martyrdoms

	++John Rogers suffered martyrdom by being burnt at the stake in
Smithfield, on the 4th of February, 1555. He was the first victim of what
is known in history as the "Marian Persecution;" and which conferred on
England's Catholic queen the title of "Bloody Mary." Archbishop Gardiner,
however, is usually credited with being the prime instigator of that
persecution, though he died before it reached its height, and not before
he had shown symptoms of relenting. Cardinal Pole though "naturally humane
and gentle," shares the guilt of sanctioning it; "but the chief agent was
Bonner, bishop of London, in whose diocese the majority of all the
executions took place. * * * * The total number of men, women and children
who were burnt--for even children were thrown into the flames and some at
the very moment of their birth"--is computed as follows:

	where they were notified by the police, that the Lord Mayor had
issued orders prohibiting street preaching in the city. A Mr. Connor
stepped up and said, "I will show you a place outside of his
jurisdiction," and guided them to "Tabernacle Square," where they found an
assembly of about 400 people listening to a preacher who was standing on a
chair.  When he got through another preacher arose to speak. Elder Kimball
stated to the first clergyman, "There is a man present from America who
would like to preach;" which was granted; when Elder George A. Smith
delivered a discourse of about twenty minutes, on the first principles of
the Gospel, taking for his text, Mark xvi: 16; after which Elder Kimball
asked the preacher to give out another appointment at the same place for
the American Elder to preach; when he jumped up and said, "I have just
learned that the gentleman who has addressed you is a Latter-day Saint; I
know them--they are a very bad people; they have split up many churches,
and have done a great deal of hurt." He spoke all manner of evil, and gave
the Latter-day Saints a very bad character, and commanded the people not
to hear the Elders, "as we have got the Gospel, and can save the people,
without infidelity, socialism, or Latter-day Saints. "

	Elder Kimball asked the privilege of standing on the chair to give
out an appointment himself. The preacher said, "You shall not do it; you
have no right to preach here; " jerked the chair away from him, and ran
away with it.  Several of the crowd said, "You have as much right to
preach here as he has, and give out your appointment;" whereupon Elder
Kimball gave out an appointment -------

	1555, from February--72; 1556--94; 1557,--79; 1558, from February to
September-- (when the persecution closed), 39; making a total of 284. It
was during this persecution that Ridley and Latimer suffered. On the way
to the execution the latter, it is said, "with a keen quaintness which
adorns his sermons," uttered the words which fortunately became
prophetic--addressing himself to his companion-- "Be of good comfort,
Master Ridley; play the man; we shall this day light such a candle, by
God's grace, in England, as I trust shall never be put out." (History of
England, by William Smith, p. 156).

	for 3 o'clock p. m.; at which time a large congregation was gathered.

	After opening the meeting by singing and prayer, Elder Woodruff spoke
about thirty minutes, from Gal. i: 8, 9, upon the first principles of the
Gospel. Elder Kimball followed upon the same subjects. The people gave
good attention, and seemed much interested in what they had heard. The
inhabitants who lived around the square opened their windows to four
stories high; the most of them were crowded with anxious listeners, which
is an uncommon occurrence. The meeting was dismissed in the midst of good
feeling.

	Mr. Henry Connor invited the Elders to his house. Soon after they
arrived here, Elder Kimball felt impressed to return to the place of
preaching.  When he got there he found a large company talking about the
things which they had heard in the afternoon, and they wished him to speak
to them again.  He did so, when several persons invited him home with
them. While Elder Kimball was preaching, several persons came to Brothers
Woodruff and Smith to converse on doctrine, when Mr. Connor offered
himself for baptism.

	Monday, 31.--Elder Kimball baptized Henry Connor, watchmaker, 52
Ironmonger's Row, London, in Peerless Pool, being the first baptized in
that place, and confirmed him the same evening.

	The electric telegraph is beginning to be used on the Great Western
Railroad in England, between Drayton and Paddington, by which intelligence
is communicated at the rate of two hundred thousand miles per second.

	An Address by the First Presidency to the Church. To the Saints
Scattered Abroad: BELOVED BRETHREN:--We address a few lines to the members
of the Church of Jesus Christ, who have obeyed from the heart that form of
doctrine which has been delivered to them by the servants of the Lord, and
who are desirous to go forward in the ways of truth and righteousness, and
by obedience to the heavenly command, escape the things which are coming
on the earth, and secure to themselves an inheritance among the sanctified
in the world to come.

	Having been placed in a very responsible station in the Church, we at
all times feel interested in the welfare of the Saints, and make mention
of them continually in our prayers to our heavenly Father, that they may
be kept from the evils which are in the world, and ever be found walking
in the path of truth.

	The work of the Lord in these last days, is one of vast magnitude and
almost beyond the comprehension of mortals. Its glories are past
description, and its grandeur unsurpassable. It is the theme which has
animated the bosom of prophets and righteous men from the creation of the
world down through every succeeding generation to the present time; and it
is truly the dispensation of the fullness of times, when all things which
are in Christ Jesus, whether in heaven or on the earth, shall be gathered
together in Him, and when all things shall be restored, as spoken of by
all the holy prophets since the world began; for in it will take place the
glorious fulfilment of the promises made to the fathers, while the
manifestations of the power of the Most High will be great, glorious, and
sublime.

	The purposes of our God are great, His love unfathomable, His wisdom
infinite, and His power unlimited; therefore, the Saints have cause to
rejoice and be glad, knowing that "this God is our God forever and ever,
and He will be our Guide until death." Having confidence in the power,
wisdom, and love of God, the Saints have been enabled to go forward
through the most adverse circumstances, and frequently, when to all human
appearances, nothing but death presented itself, and destruction
inevitable, has the power of God been manifest, His glory revealed, and
deliverance effected; and the Saints, like the children of Israel, who
came out of the land of Egypt, and through the Red Sea, have sung an
anthem of praise to his holy name. This has not only been the case in
former days, but in our days, and within a few months, have we seen this
fully verified.

	Having through the kindness of our God been delivered from
destruction, and having secured a location upon which we have again
commenced operations for the good of His people, we feel disposed to go
forward and unite our energies for the upbuilding of the Kingdom, and
establishing the Priesthood in their fullness and glory. The work which
has to be accomplished in the last days is one of vast importance, and
will call into action the energy, skill, talent, and ability of the
Saints, so that it may roll forth with that glory and majesty described by
the prophet; and will consequently require the concentration of the
Saints, to accomplish works of such magnitude and grandeur.

	The work of the gathering spoken of in the Scriptures will be
necessary to bring about the glories of the last dispensation. It is
probably unnecessary to press this subject on the Saints, as we believe
the spirit of it is manifest, and its necessity obvious to every
considerate mind; and everyone zealous for the promotion of truth and
righteousness, is equally so for the gathering of the Saints.

	Dear brethren, feeling desirous to carry out the purposes of God to
which work we have been called; and to be co-workers with Him in this last
dispensation; we feel the necessity of having the hearty cooperation of
the Saints throughout this land, and upon the islands of the sea. It will
be necessary for the Saints to hearken to counsel and turn their attention
to the Church, the establishment of the Kingdom, and lay aside every
selfish principle, everything low and groveling; and stand forward in the
cause of truth, and assist to the utmost of their power, those to whom has
been given the pattern and design. Like those who held up the hands of
Moses, so let us hold up the hands of those who are appointed to direct
the affairs of the Kingdom, so that they may be strengthened, and be
enabled to prosecute their great designs, and be instrumental in effecting
the great work of the last days.

	Believing the time has now come, when it is necessary to erect a
house of prayer, a house of order, a house for the worship of our God,
where the ordinances can be attended to agreeably to His divine will, in
this region of country--to accomplish which, considerable exertion must be
made, and means will be required--and as the work must be hastened in
righteousness, it behooves the Saints to weigh the importance of these
things, in their minds, in all their bearings, and then take such steps as
are necessary to carry them into operation; and arming themselves with
courage, resolve to do all they can, and feel themselves as much
interested as though the whole labor depended on themselves alone. By so
doing they will emulate the glorious deeds of the fathers, and secure the
blessings of heaven upon themselves and their posterity to the latest
generation.

	To those who feel thus interested, and can assist in this great work,
we say, let them come to this place; by so doing they will not only assist
in the rolling on of the Kingdom, but be in a situation where they can
have the advantages of instruction from the Presidency and other
authorities of the Church, and rise higher and higher in the scale of
intelligence until they can "comprehend with all Saints what is the
breadth and length, and depth and height; and to know the love of Christ
which passeth knowledge."

	Connected with the building up of the Kingdom, is the printing and
circulation of the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, hymnbook, and
the new translation of the Scriptures. It is unnecessary to say anything
respecting these works; those who have read them, and who have drunk of
the stream of knowledge which they convey, know how to appreciate them;
and although fools may have them in derision, yet they are calculated to
make men wise unto salvation, and sweep away the cobwebs of superstition
of ages, throw a light on the proceedings of Jehovah which have already
been accomplished, and mark out the future in all its dreadful and
glorious realities. Those who have tasted the benefit derived from a study
of these works, will undoubtedly vie with each other in their zeal for
sending them abroad throughout the world, that every son of Adam may enjoy
the same privileges, and rejoice in the same truths.

	Here, then, beloved brethren, is a work to engage in worthy of
archangels--a work which will cast into the shade the things which have
been heretofore accomplished; a work which kings and prophets and
righteous men in former ages have sought, expected, and earnestly desired
to see, but died without the sight; and well will it be for those who
shall aid in carrying into effect the mighty operations of Jehovah. By
order of the First Presidency, ROBERT B. THOMPSON, Scribe.

	Saturday, September 5.--Elders Young and Richards went from
Manchester to Liverpool, and in the evening organized a company of Saints
bound for New York, by choosing Elder Theodore Turley to preside, with six
counselors.

	Minutes of the High Council Meeting, at the Office of Joseph Smith,
Jun., Nauvoo, September 5th, 1840. Joseph Smith, Jun., preferred charges
against Elder Almon W. Babbitt, predicated on the authority of two
letters, one from Thomas Burdick, the other from Oliver Granger and Levi
Richards, accusing Elder Babbitt as follows:

	First. For stating that Joseph Smith, Jun., had extravagantly
purchased three suits of clothes while he was at Washington City, and that
Sidney Rigdon had purchased four suits while at the same place. besides
dresses in profusion for their families

	Second. For having stated that Joseph Smith, Jun., Sidney Rigdon and
Elias Higbee had said that they were worth one hundred thousand dollars
each, while they were at Washington, and that Joseph Smith,

	Jun., had repeated the same statement while in Philadelphia, and for
saying that Oliver Granger had stated that he also was worth as much as
they (that is, one hundred thousand dollars).

	Third. For holding secret councils in the Lord's House, in Kirtland,
and for locking the doors of the house, for the purpose of prohibiting
certain brethren in good standing in the Church, from being in the
Council, thereby depriving them of the use of the house.

	Two were appointed to speak on the case, namely, Thomas Grover,
Austin Cowles.

	Council adjourned till the 6th September, at 2 o'clock, when Council
met according to adjournment, the evidences were all heard on the case
pending, and the councilors closed on both sides. The parties spoke at
length, after which, Joseph Smith withdrew the charge, and both parties
were reconciled to each other, things being adjusted to their
satisfaction.

	Sunday 6.--Elder Young preached.

	Monday 7.--This evening, Elders Kimball, Woodruff and George A.
Smith, preached in the south Temperance Hall, London.

	On Monday night, Elders Brigham Young and Willard Richards, stayed on
board the North America with the Saints, and on Tuesday morning, about
nine o'clock, the vessel went out with a steamer. The Elders accompanied
them fifteen or twenty miles, and left them in good spirits. Elder
Richards returned to Manchester the same evening and Elder Young on the
10th.

	Elder John Benbow, who had previously furnished two hundred and fifty
pounds towards printing the hymn book, Book of Mormon, etc., relinquished
all claim to said money, except such assistance as his friends, who might
wish to emigrate to America the next season, might need, leaving the
remainder to the disposal of Brigham Young, Willard Richards, and Wilford
Woodruff, who borrowed said moneys for the benefit of the Church of Jesus
Christ of Latter-day Saints, forever, also the avails of the Gadfield Elm
Chapel, when sold.

	Wednesday, 9.--There was a terrific storm on the North of Scotland.

	Friday, 11.--There was a terrible earthquake at Mount Ararat, which
destroyed the town of Makitchevan, damaged all the buildings at Erivan,
and devastated the two districts of Sharour and Sourmate in Armenia. A
considerable mass was loosened from Mount Ararat and destroyed everything
in its way for nearly five miles. The village of Akhouli was buried, with
one thousand inhabitants.

	Sunday, 13.--Elder Kimball baptized four in London.

	Monday, 14.--My father, Joseph Smith, Sen., Patriarch of the whole
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, died at Nauvoo. Biography of
Joseph Smith, Sen., Presiding Patriarch of the Church, by the Prophet
Joseph, his Son.

	Joseph Smith, Sen., was born on the 12th day of July, 1771, in
Topsfield, Essex county, Massachusetts; he was the second of the seven
sons of Asahel and Mary Smith. Asahel was born in Topsfield, March 7th,
1744. He was the youngest son of Samuel and Priscilla Smith. Samuel was
born January 26th, 1714, in Topsfield; he was the eldest son of Samuel and
Rebecca Smith. Samuel was born in Topsfield, January 20 1666, and was the
son of Robert and Mary Smith, who emigrated from Old England.

	My father removed with his father to Tunbridge, Orange county,
Vermont, in 1791, and assisted in clearing a large farm of a heavy growth
of timber. He married Lucy, daughter of Solomon and Lydia Mack on the 14th
of January, 1796, by whom he had

	Alvin Smith, born February 11th, 1798, died November 19th, 1824.
Hyrum, born February 9th, 1800. Sophronia, born May 16th, 1803. Joseph,
born December 23rd, 1805. Samuel Harrison, born March 13th, 1808. Ephraim,
born March 13th, 1810, died March 24th, 1810. William, born March 13th,
1811. Catherine, born July 28th, 1812. Don Carlos, born March 25th, 1816.
Lucy, born July 18th, 1824.

	At his marriage he owned a handsome farm in Tunbridge. In 1802, he
rented it and engaged in mercantile business, and soon after embarked in a
venture of [raising] ginseng * to send to China, and was swindled out of
the entire proceeds by the shipmaster and agent, he was consequently
obliged to sell his farm and all of his effects to pay his debts.

	About the year 1816 he removed to Palmyra, Wayne county, New York,
bought a farm and cleared two hundred acres, which he lost in consequence
of not being able to pay the last installment of the purchase money at the
time it was due. This was the case with a great number of farmers in New
York, who had cleared land under similar contracts. He afterwards moved to
Manchester, Ontario county, New York, procured a comfortable home with
sixteen acres of land, where he lived until he removed to Kirtland, Ohio.

	He was the first person who received my testimony after I had seen
the angel, and exhorted me to be faithful and diligent to the message I
had received.+ He was baptized April 6th, 1830.

	In August, 1830, in company with my brother Don Carlos, he took a
mission to St. Lawrence county, New York, touching on his route at several
of the Canadian ports, where he distributed a few copies of the Book of
Mormon. He also visited his father, brothers and sister residing in St.
Lawrence county, bore testimony to the truth which resulted eventually in
all the family coming into the Church, excepting his brother Jesse and
sister Susan.

	He removed with his family to Kirtland in 1831; was ordained
Patriarch and President of the High Priesthood [in Kirtland]++ under the
hands of Oliver Cowdery, Sidney Rigdon, Frederick G. Williams and myself,
on the 18th of December, 1833; was a member of the First High Council,
organized on the 17th of February, 1834, (when he conferred on me and my
brother Samuel H., a father's blessing -------

	In 1836 he traveled in company with his brother John two thousand
four hundred miles in Ohio, New York, Pennsylvania, Vermont, and New
Hampshire, visiting the branches of the Church in those states and
bestowing patriarchal blessings on several hundred persons, preaching the
Gospel to all who would hear, and baptizing many. They returned to
Kirtland on the 2nd of October, 1836.



	During the persecutions in Kirtland in 1837, he was made a prisoner,
but fortunately obtained his liberty, and after a very tedious journey in
the spring and summer of 1838, he arrived at Far West, Missouri. After I
and my brother Hyrum were thrown into the Missouri jails by the mob, he
fled from under the exterminating order of Governor Lilburn W. Boggs, and
made his escape in midwinter to Quincy, Illinois, from whence he removed
to Commerce in the spring of 1839.

	The exposures he suffered brought on consumption, of which he died on
this 14th day of September, 1840, aged sixty-nine years, two months, and
two days. He was six feet, two inches high, was very straight, and
remarkably well proportioned. His ordinary weight was about two hundred
pounds, and he was very strong and active. In his younger days he was
famed as a wrestler, and, Jacob like, he never wrestled with but one man
whom he could not throw. He was one of the most benevolent of men; opening
his house to all who were destitute. While at Quincy, Illinois, he fed
hundreds of the poor Saints who were flying from the Missouri
persecutions, although he had arrived there penniless himself.

	Tuesday, 15.--The funeral of Joseph Smith, Sen., took place this day,
when the following address was delivered by Elder Robert B. Thompson: The
Discourse of Elder Thompson at the Funeral of Joseph Smith, Sen. The
occasion which has brought us together this day, is one of no -------

	So he was affectionately called by the Saints--was ordained Patriarch
and the President of the High Priests in Kirtland. That he was not made
President of the High Priesthood is evident from the fact that the Prophet
Joseph himself at that time was President of the High Priesthood of the
Church, a position to which he was ordained at a conference of High
Priests in Amherst, Loraine county, Ohio, in 1832 (see church History,
vol. I, p. 243 and note.) The Presidency of the High Priesthood carries
with it the office of President of the church: "And again, the duty of the
President of the office of the High Priesthood is to preside over the
whole church, and to be like unto Moses. Behold, here is wisdom, yea, to
be a seer, a revelator, a translator, and a Prophet, having all the gifts
of God which He bestows upon the head of the Church." (Doc. and Cov. sec.
107, verses 91-9

	ordinary importance: for not only has a single family to mourn and
sorrow on account of the death of the individual, whose funeral obsequies
we this day celebrate; but a whole society; yes, thousands will this day
have to say, a Father in Israel is gone.

	The man whom we have been accustomed to look up to as a Patriarch, a
Father, and a Counselor is no more an inhabitant of mortality: he has
dropped his clay tenement, bid adieu to terrestrial scenes, and his spirit
now free and unencumbered, roams and expatiates in that world where the
spirits of just men made perfect dwell, and where pain and sickness,
tribulation and death cannot come.

	The friends we have lost prior to our late venerable and lamented
Father, were such as rendered life sweet, and in whose society we took
great pleasure, and who shed a lustre in the several walks of life in
which they moved, and to whom we feel endeared by friendship's sacred
ties. Their virtues and kindnesses will long be remembered by the
sorrowing widow, the disconsolate husband, the weeping children, the
almost distracted and heart-broken parent, and by a large circle of
acquaintances and friends. These, like the stars in yonder firmament,
shone in their several spheres, and filled that station to which they had
been called by the providence of God, with honor to themselves and to the
Church; and we feel to mingle our tears with their surviving relatives.

	But on this occasion we realize that we have suffered more than an
ordinary bereavement, and consequently we feel the more interested If ever
there was a man who had claims on the affections of the community, it was
our beloved but now deceased Patriarch. If ever there was an event
calculated to raise the feelings of sorrow in the human breast, and cause
us to drop the sympathetic tear, it certainly is the present; for truly we
can say with the king of Israel, "A prince and a great man has fallen in
Israel." A man endeared to us by every feeling calculated to entwine
around and adhere to the human heart, by almost indissoluble bonds. A man
faithful to his God and to the Church in every situation and under all
circumstances through which he was called to pass.

	Whether in prosperity, surrounded by the comforts of life, a smiling
progeny, and all the enjoyments of a domestic circle; or when called upon,
like the Patriarchs of old, to leave the land of his nativity, to journey
in strange lands, and become subject to all the trials and persecutions
that have been heaped upon the Saints with a liberal hand, by characters
destitute of every principle of morality or religion, alike regardless of
the tender offspring and the aged sire, whose silvery locks and furrowed
cheeks ought to have been a sufficient shield from their cruelty; still,
like the Apostle Paul he could exclaim, (and his life and conduct have
fully borne out the sentiment) "None of these things move me; neither
count I my life dear, so that I may finish my course with joy."

	The principles of the Gospel were too well established in that
breast, and had got too sure a footing there, ever to be torn down, or
prostrated by the fierce winds of persecution, the blasts of poverty, or
the swollen waves of distress and tribulation. No; thank God, his house
was built upon a rock--consequently it stood amid the contending elements,
firm and unshaken.

	The life of our departed father has indeed been an eventful one,
having to take a conspicuous part in the great work of the last days;
being designated by the ancient prophets who once dwelt on this continent,
as the father of him whom the Lord had promised to raise up in the last
days, to lead His people Israel; and by a uniform consistent, and a
virtuous course, for a long series of years, he has proved himself worthy
of such a son, and such a family by whom he had the happiness of being
surrounded in his dying moments; most of whom had the satisfaction of
receiving his dying benediction.

	He was already in the wane of life, when the light of truth broke in
upon the world, and with pleasure he hailed its benign and enlightening
rays, and was chosen by the Almighty to be one of the witnesses to the
Book of Mormon. From that time, his only aim was the promotion of
truth--his soul was taken up with the things of the Kingdom; his bowels
yearned over the children of men; and it was more than his meat and his
drink to do the will of his Father, who is in heaven.

	By unceasing industry of himself and family, he had secured a home in
the state of New York, where he no doubt expected, with every honest
industrious citizen, to enjoy the blessings of peace and liberty. But when
the principles of truth were introduced and the Gospel of Jesus Christ was
promulgated by himself and family, friends forsook, enemies raged, and
persecution was resorted to by wicked and ungodly men, insomuch that he
was obliged to flee from that place, and seek a home in a more hospitable
land.

	In Ohio he met with many kind and generous friends, and was kindly
welcomed by the Saints; many of whom continue to this day, and can call to
mind the various scenes which there transpired; many of which were of such
a nature as not to be easily obliterated.

	While the House of the Lord was building he took great interest in
its erection, and daily watched its progress, and had the pleasure of
taking a part at the opening, and seeing it crowded by hundreds of various
worshipers. As the King of Israel longed for and desired to see the
completion of the House of the Lord, so did he; and with him he could
exclaim, "O Lord, I love the habitation of thine house, and the place
where thine honor dwelleth." To dwell in the house of the Lord, and to
inquire in his temple, was his daily delight; and in it he enjoyed many
blessings, and spent many hours in sweet communion with his heavenly
Father. He has trod its sacred aisles, solitary and alone from mankind,
long before the king of day has gilded the eastern horizon; and he has
uttered his aspirations within its walls, when nature has been asleep. In
its holy enclosures have the visions of heaven been opened to his mind,
and his soul has feasted on the riches of eternity; and there under his
teachings have the meek and humble been instructed, while the widow and
the orphan have received his patriarchal blessings.

	There he saw the work spreading far and wide; saw the Elders of
Israel go forth under his blessing--bore them up by the prayer of faith,
and hailed them welcome when they again returned bringing their sheaves
with them. There with his aged partner, he spent many happy days in the
bosom of his family, whom he loved with all the tenderness of parental
affection.

	Here I might enlarge, and expatiate on the "scenes of joy and scenes
of gladness" which were enjoyed by our beloved Patriarch, but I shall pass
on to an event which was truly painful and trying.

	The delightful scene soon vanished; the calm was soon succeeded by a
storm and the frail bark was driven by the tempest and foaming ocean, for
many who had once been proud to acknowledge him a father and a friend, and
who sought counsel at his hands, joined with the enemies of truth, and
sought his destruction; and would have rejoiced to see his aged and
venerable form immured in a dungeon; but, thank God, this they were not
suffered to do; he providentially made his escape, and after evading his
enemies for some time, he undertook and accomplished a journey of a
thousand miles, and bore up under the fatigue and suffering necessarily
attendant on such a journey with patient resignation. After a journey of
several weeks, he arrived in safety at Far West, in the bosom of the
Church, and was cordially welcomed by the Saints, who had found an asylum
in the rich and fertile county of Caldwell.

	There he, in common with the rest of the Saints, hoped to enjoy the
privileges and blessings of peace. There, from the fertile soil and
flowery meads, which well repaid the labor of the husbandman, and poured
forth abundance for the support of the numerous herds which decked those
lovely and wide-spread prairies, he hoped to enjoy uninterrupted, the
comforts of domestic life.

	But he had not long indulged these pleasing anticipations before the
delightful prospect again vanished: the cup of blessing which he began
again to enjoy, was dashed from his aged lips; and the cup of sorrow
filled to overflowing, was given him instead; and surely he drank it to
the very dregs; for not only did he see the Saints in bondage, treated
with cruelty, and some of them murdered; but the kind and affectionate
parent saw--and ah! how painful was the sight--two of his sons to whom he
looked for protection, torn away from their domestic circles, from their
weeping and distracted families, by monsters in the shape of men, who
swore and threatened to kill them, and who had every disposition to imbrue
their hands in their blood. This circumstance was too much for his
agitated and now sinking frame to bear up under; and although his
confidence in his God was great, and his conduct was that of a Christian
and a Saint, yet he felt like a man and a parent. At that time his
constitution received a shock from which it never recovered. Ah! yes there
were feelings agitated in the bosom of our deceased friend at that time of
no ordinary kind; feelings of painful anxiety, and emotion too great for
his earthly tabernacle to contain without suffering a great and a sensible
injury; and which from that time began to manifest itself.

	It would be unnecessary to trace him and his aged partner (who shared
in all his sorrows and afflictions) from such a scene, as many of the
Saints are knowing to the privations and sufferings which they, in common
with the Church, endured while moving from that land of oppression;
suffice it to say, he arrived in safety in Illinois, broken down in
constitution and in health, and since then he has labored under severe
afflictions and pain, while disease has been slowly but surely undermining
his system.

	Whenever he had a short respite from pain, he felt a pleasure in
attending to his patriarchal duties, and with cheerfulness he performed
them; and frequently his labors have been more than his strength could
admit of; but having great zeal for the cause of truth, he felt willing to
be spent in the service of his God.

	For some time past he has been confined to his bed, and the time of
is departure was near at hand. On Saturday evening last, a rupture of a
blood vessel took place, when he vomited a large quantity of blood. His
family were summoned to his bedside, it being now evident that he could
not long survive.

	On Sunday he called his children and grandchildren around him, and
like the ancient patriarchs gave them his final benediction. Although his
strength was far gone, and he was obliged to rest at intervals, yet his
mind was clear, perfectly collected, and calm as the gentle zephyrs. The
love of God was in his heart, the peace of God rested upon him, and his
soul was full of compassion and blessing.

	All the circumstances connected with his death, were calculated to
lead the mind back to the time when an Abraham, an Isaac and a Jacob bid
adieu to mortality, and entered into rest.

	His death, like theirs, was sweet, and it certainly was a privilege
indeed to witness such a scene; and I was forcibly reminded of the
sentiment of the poet:

	The chamber where the good man meets his fate, is privileged beyond
the common walk of virtuous life.

	There were no reflections of a misspent life--no fearful forebodings
of a gloomy nature in relation to the future; the realities of eternity
were dawning, the shades of time were lowering; but there was nothing to
terrify, to alarm or disturb his mind; no, the principles of the Gospel,
which, "bring life and immortality to light," nobly triumphed in nature's
final hour. These principles so long taught and cherished by our lamented
friend, were honorably maintained to the last; which is not only a
consolation to the immediate relatives, but to the Church at large.

	The instructions imparted by him will long be remembered by his
numerous progeny, who will undoubtedly profit by the same, and strive to
render themselves worthy of such a sire; and the whole Church will copy
his examples, walk in his footsteps, and emulate his faith and virtuous
actions, and commend themselves to his God and to their God.

	Notwithstanding his enemies frequently "shot at him, yet his bow
abode in strength, and the arms of his hands were made strong by the hands
of the mighty God of Jacob," and his courage and resolution never forsook
him.

	His anxiety for the spread of truth was great, and he lived to see
great and important things accomplished. He saw the commencement of the
work, small as a mustard seed, and with attention and deep interest he
watched its progress; and he had the satisfaction of beholding thousands
on this Continent, rejoicing in its truth, and heard the glorious tidings,
that other lands were becoming heirs to the richest blessings.

	Under these circumstances, he could exclaim, like pious Simeon of
old, "Lord, now lettest thou thy servant depart in peace, for mine eyes
have seen thy salvation."

	Although his spirit has taken its flight and his remains will soon
mingle with their mother earth, yet his memory will long be cherished by
all who had the pleasure of his acquaintance, and will be fresh and
blooming when those of his enemies shall be blotted out from under heaven.

	May we, beloved friends, who survive our venerable Patriarch, study
to prosecute those things which were so dear to his aged heart* and pray
that a double portion of his spirit may be bestowed on us that we may be
the humble instruments in aiding the consummation of the great work which
he saw so happily begun; that when we have to stand before the bar of
Christ, we may with our departed friend hear the welcome plaudit, "Come up
hither, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from
the foundation of the world. Amen.


                               CHAPTER XI. 
        THREATENING PORTENTS IN THE ACTIONS OF MISSOURI--GENERAL 
      CONFERENCES IN NAUVOO AND ENGLAND--THE DOCTRINE OF PRIESTHOOD.

	Tuesday, September 15, 1840. "The governor of Missouri, after a
silence of about two years, has at last made a demand on Governor Carlin
of Illinois, for Joseph Smith, Jun., Sidney Rigdon, Lyman Wight, Parley P.
Pratt, Caleb Baldwin, and Alanson Brown, as fugitives from justice.

	"The demand it seems has been complied with by Governor Carlin, and
an order issued for their apprehension; accordingly our place has recently
received a visit from the sheriff for these men; but through the tender
mercies of a kind Providence, who by His power has sustained, and once
delivered them from the hands of the blood-thirsty and savage race of
beings in the shape of men that tread Missouri's delightful soil; they
were not to be found--as the Lord would have it, they were gone from home,
and the sheriff returned, of course without them.

	"These men do not feel disposed to again try the solemn realities of
mob law in that state; and a free and enlightened republic should respond
against it, for Missouri has no claim on them, but they have claim on
Missouri.

	"What right have they to demand of Governor Carlin, as fugitives from
justice, men against whom no process had ever been found in that
state--no, not so much as the form of a process?They were taken by a mob
militia, and dragged from everything that was dear and sacred, and tried
(without their knowledge) by a court martial, condemned to be shot, but
this failing, they were forced into confinement, galled with chains,
deprived of the comforts of life, and even that which was necessary to
save life, then brought to a pretended trial, without even having a legal
process served, and then deprived of the privilege of defense. They were
taken by a mob, tried, condemned and imprisoned by the same, and this
Missouri cannot deny.

	"What a beautiful picture Governor Boggs has presented to the world,
after driving twelve or fifteen thousand inhabitants from their homes,
forcing them to leave the state under the pain of extermination, and
confiscating their property, and murdering innocent men, women and
children; then, because that a few made their escape from his murdering
hand, and have found protection in a land of equal rights, so that his
plans and designs have all been unfruitful, to that extent that he has
caused "Mormonism" to spread with double vigor; he now has the presumption
to demand them back, in order that his thirst for innocent blood may yet
be satiated.

	"He has no business with them; they have not escaped from justice,
but from the hands of a cursed, infuriated, inhuman set, or race of beings
who are enemies to their country, to their God, to themselves, and to
every principle of righteousness and humanity. They loathe Christianity,
and despise the people of God; they war against truth, and inherit lies;
virtue they tread under their feet; while vice (with her ten thousand
offspring) is their welcome associate; therefore, men on whom Missouri has
no claim, she cannot, no, she never shall have."*

	Sunday, 20.--Elder Willard Richards went to Preston, held a
conference, ordained five Elders, eleven Priests, eight Teachers, one
Deacon, and returned to Manchester same day.

	Letter of Samuel Bent and George W. Harris to the
Presidency--Reporting Labors.

							CINCINNATI, Sept. 23, 1840.

To the First Presidency and High Council of the Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints:

	We gladly embrace this opportunity of conveying a few lines to you by
Ebenezer Robinson, who we expect will leave this place for Nauvoo in a few
days.

	Brother George W. Harris and myself have visited the several branches
of the Church in Adams county, Pike county, Jacksonville, and Springfield.
On our way we stopped at Terre Haute, and Pleasant Garden, Indiana. We
found the brethren generally very willing and anxious to do all in their
power to assist the Church in the great and glorious cause that we have
engaged in respecting the printing of the several books in contemplation,
but I am sorry to say I found them destitute of the means to relieve our
present necessity.

	However, we have succeeded in obtaining several notes of hand
from	different brethren in the state of Illinois, to the amount of about
eighty-three dollars, which will come due on the first day of October
next, and we have handed them over to Ebenezer Robinson, to be delivered
to Joseph Smith, Jun., for collection. We expect Brother Robinson will
arrive with them at the time they become due.

	* The foregoing is an editorial in the Times and Seasons for
September, 1840.


	We have obtained some money, which we have paid over to Brother
Ebenezer Robinson. We have also given our obligations as agents for the
Church, to Shepherd and Stearns to the amount of three hundred dollars,
two hundred of which becomes due on the twenty-sixth day of November next,
and the other one hundred on the twenty sixth day of December next, being
the amount due Shepherd and Stearns for the stereotype plates.

	We have taken up the bond that Brother Brown gave for the wagon or
carriage which he let Joseph Smith, Jun., have, and we have succeeded in
procuring a horse and harness to put alongside of the other horse to make
it easier for him. We got said horse and harness by contributions from the
brethren at Dayton and West Milton, Ohio.

	Brother Ebenezer Robinson (we think) has been very economical,
diligent, and persevering, and successful in the business whereupon he was
sent. He has gained the confidence of the gentlemen with whom he has been
transacting business in the city, and has done honor to the cause of
Christ and His Church of Latter-day Saints. We can further say to you
brethren, we think the course he has taken, and our united exertions with
him, have established the credit of the Church of Jesus Christ of
Latter-day Saints in this place (I mean as to business transactions), to
that extent that we can obtain any amount of paper, type, and other
materials requisite to carry on the printing business to a large extent,
and upon terms that will warrant our success.

	We therefore shall go on with renewed courage and zeal, trusting in
the Lord to prepare the way before us, and we feel to ask your prayers
that God may peradventure expand the minds of the Saints abroad, that they
may be able to comprehend the magnitude of the work we so much desire to
accomplish, which in all probability will induce them to donate with
alacrity.

	Brother John E. Page is preaching with the manifestations of the
Spirit and power in this place, and with considerable success. We think
when Brother Page leaves the city of Cincinnati, the inhabitants thereof
will be left without excuse for not receiving the Gospel of Jesus Christ,
and his garments clear from their blood in the day of judgment. Accept our
love and best wishes. Yours in the bonds of the New and Everlasting
Covenant,
										SAMUEL BENT,
										GEORGE W. HARRIS.

	Letter of John E. Page to the Presidency--Reporting Progress of
Palestine Mission.

							CINCINNATI, September 23, 1840.

To the President and Council of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints, and also to all the Saints Assembled in General Conference:

	Your humble servant embraces with pleasure this opportunity to pen
for your edification a few lines. I congratulate you upon the steady march
and advancement of the cause of Christ, as [it] has fallen under my
observation. Elder Hyde and myself have been treated with respect, and had
the greatest attention paid us by the brethren and sisters; and by
gentlemen and ladies of the first class in society, we have been made
welcome very heartily to their dwellings and comforts of life. When we
separate from them they grip our hands with tears standing full in their
eyes, bidding farewell, and often leave something noble with us to help us
on our mission; and a firm promise that they will duly reflect on the
great things which we have told them. They ardently request us to send
them some competent Elder to preach to them.

	Yes, dear brethren, the cause of truth is marching onward with
unparalleled rapidity, and victory!Victory! will soon be the shout of all
the faithful in Christ; and thank the Lord, thank the Lord, is the
language of unworthy me, that I have lived to see 1840, with all its
attendant evidences of the truth of the Book of Mormon, and the Book of
Doctrine and Covenants.

	I must save a place in this communication to make some remarks
concerning Brother Ebenezer Robinson. I can say, in truth and soberness,
that he merits the esteem and confidence of the Saints and all good men
for his diligence and economy while getting the Book of Mormon
stereotyped, &c., here. The honest and frank course he has pursued towards
the gentlemen with whom he has been concerned in business (viz., Messrs.
Shepherd, Stearns, and others), has won their eve