Letter from Elias Higbee, 26 February 1840

Dr. Brother

I am just informed by Gen. [Garret D.] 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 , the Courts & 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 offence towards God & man in this matter; that I have discharged my duty here— and as I wish not to be on expence, as soon as I can write to ; get my papers; and draw some money to bear my expences I shall bid adieu to this , for, to return to my family and friends— I feell now, as though that we have made our last appeald to all earthly tribunals; that we we should no[w] put our whole trust in the God of Abraham, Isaac, & Jacob— We have a right now which we could not heretofore so fully claim— That is of asking God for redress & redemption; as it they have been refused us by man— Those who have been ordained to do this business—

Jos. Smith Jr. [p. 103]