History, 1838–1856, volume C-1 Addenda
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Source Note
JS, History, 1838–1856, vol. C-1, addenda, created 18 Oct.–ca. 20 Nov. 1854; 75 pages in volume bearing three labels reading “Historical Notation,” “From 1841 to 1851,” and “Addenda to C1;” handwriting of , Jonathan Grimshaw, Robert Campbell, and John L. Smith; CHL.
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Historical Introduction
On 11 June 1839, while residing at , Illinois, JS began dictating what his journal simply referred to as his “history.” (An earlier draft was begun by JS and in April 1838, but that draft is no longer extant; see JS, Journal, 27 Apr. 1838.) However, substantial progress on the history was not made until assumed responsibility for the project and was appointed as JS’s “private se[c]retary & historian” in December 1842 (JS, Journal, 11 June 1839; 21 Dec. 1842). Work on this endeavor came to span eighteen years and included frequent stops and starts. The longest lull, of over seven years, was occasioned by the Saints’ exodus from followed by the challenges of settling the Salt Lake Valley. After the death of Willard Richards in 1854, the project was brought to a conclusion in Utah by and in 1856. By that time the history had swelled to six volumes and over 2,400 pages. It subsequently came to be known as the “Manuscript History of the Church” (in The Joseph Smith Papers it bears the editorial title “History, 1838–1856”).As part of that enterprise, “History, 1838–1856, volume C-1 [2 November 1838–31 July 1842]” was begun on or just after 24 February 1845 and its basic narrative was completed by 3 May of that year, although work continued on the volume through that July (Richards, Journal, 24 and 28 Feb. 1845; Historian’s Office, Journal, 3 May 1845; 3 and 4 July 1845). was the scribe for the volume, which contains 512 pages of primary text, plus 24 pages of addenda, and covers the period 2 November 1838 through 31 July 1842.On 10 April 1854, less than five weeks after the death of , assumed the role of church historian and with it responsibility for the completion of JS’s history. He subsequently observed in a letter to :I commenced to perform the duties of Historian by taking up the History of Joseph Smith where Dr. had left it when driven from on the 4th day of February 1846. I had to revise and compare two years of back history which he had compiled, filling up numerous spaces which had been marked as omissions on memoranda by Dr. Richards.I commenced compiling the history of Joseph Smith from April 1st 1840 to his death on June 27th 1844. I have filled up all the reports of sermons by President Joseph Smith and others from minutes or sketches taken at the time in long hand by Dr. , , , , Miss &c. which was an immense labor, requiring the deepest thought and the closest application, as there were mostly only two or three words (about half written) to a sentence.” (George A. Smith, Great Salt Lake City, Utah Territory, to Wilford Woodruff, 21 Apr. 1856, in Historian’s Office, Historical Record Book, 218.)In October 1854 and his clerks began compiling a separate, extensive list of addenda to volume C-1. The Church Historian’s office journal entry for 13 October 1854 noted, “ engaged on history papers all da[y] found many that will have to be inserted in 40 & 41” (Historian’s Office, Journal, 13 Oct. 1854). Apparently these addenda represented some of the revising and comparing of “two years of back history” with the “filling up numerous spaces” Smith had mentioned in his 1856 letter to . In support of that effort, the 19 October 1854 issue of the Deseret News carried the following item that also explained why the serialization of the History of Joseph Smith was being temporarily interrupted:The History of Joseph Smith is necessarily omitted in this number; and from one to two columns a number will probably be all that can be furnished for some time, as the Historian has come to a period which requires hunting up many facts, and preparing them for embodying, which the hurry of the times obliged to pass over by simply writing on the margin, “note to be supplied” (”History and Sermons,” Deseret News [Salt Lake City], 19 Oct. 1854, [2]).At that time, Joseph Smith’s history had been reported through October 1840 in the Deseret News.The addenda to volume C-1 presented here are labeled “Addenda to Book C1. By . Octr. 18th. 1854.” They are in the handwriting of Jonathan Grimshaw, , Robert L. Campbell, and John L. Smith, all of whom worked under the direction of . These addenda provide supplemental material for the period from 19 October 1840 to 15 July 1842 and consist of seventy-five pages copied into a separate ledger that also contains a chronological inventory of material employed in compiling the manuscript history. Many entries from George A. Smith’s “Addenda” were incorporated under their respective dates into the text of the version of Joseph Smith’s history published in the Deseret News, a fair copy identified as C-2, and the later account edited by B. H. Roberts as History of the Church.Among the significant items included in the addenda to volume C-1 are sermons, editorials, and records of events. Of particular note are entries regarding the October 1840 creation of stakes at , , and Columbus, Illinois; the January 1841 acknowledgement of the mission of the Twelve to ; the 7 August 1841 death of JS’s brother ; JS’s 12 August 1841 meeting with Sac and Fox Indians from ; a November 1841 description of the construction of a temporary wooden font for the performance of baptisms for the dead within the rising Nauvoo ; the February 1842 appointment of as superintendent of the church printing office, and of as head of the Times and Seasons editorial department; and four accounts of JS’s instructions to the Female Relief Society.
Document Transcript
Addenda to Book C1. By .
Commenced Octr. 18th. 1854.
<1840 Octr 19> Bro: has recently published a pamphlet entitled “An interesting account of several remarkable visions, and of the late discovery of Ancient American Records”, comprising 31 pages, giving a brief sketch of the rise of the Church. (page 1119.)
<22> Thursday. The committee appointed by the General Conference of the Church at on the 3rd. inst, (my brother presiding), organized a Stake at this evening, by appointing , President, & Walter Cox his counsellors; also a Bishop’s Court, composed of , Clark Hulet & Henry Dean; with James C. Snow, Clerk. (page 1119)
<23> Friday. was ordained Bishop under the hands of .
<25> Sunday. The Committee organized a Stake at . The Presidency were, , Stephen Jones, and Ezra T. Benson (who was ordained a High Priest); also Bishop and Council, George W. Crouse, Azariah Dustin, and .
<27> Tuesday. The Committee organized a Stake called Mount Hope, at the Steam Mills, Columbus, Adams County. President and Council were Abel Lamb, Sherman Gilbert and . Bishop and Council, Daniel A. Miller, Isaac Clark and John Allen: Simeon J. Comfort, Clerk.
At Freedom Branch, near Payson, Adams County, , Duncan Mc. Arthur and William Tenney were appointed to preside. Bishop and Council, Simeon <Matthew> Leach, Horra Kimball <Horace B. Skinner.>, and . (page 1119)
<29> Thursday. preached twice in , and baptized three
<30> <Elder Snow Lorenzo Snow had a discussion with Mr. Barker, a Methodist Minister at Hill Top near Birmingham, and baptized two.>
<31> Saturday. I copy the following from the Manx Liberal of this date:
“ To the Editor of the Manx Liberal—
Sir,
I feel rather surprised and chagrined that that modern delusion,viz: “Mormonism,” should have made such rapid strides in this town, hitherto considered exempt from the many systems of irreligious creeds which abound in England, , and elsewhere. I had thought that the powerful and argumentative addresses of the dissenting ministers would have checked such a gross piece [p. 1]
<1840 Octr 31> of imposition in its infancy, and thus prevented the great mass of our towns people from becoming the dupes of designing knaves, “and being led away by every wind of doctrine;” above all I imagined the two pamphlets issued by that holy, religious, and devout man of God, Mr. Hays, Wesleyan minister, (to which connection I have the happiness and honor to belong,) would have been quite sufficient to prove the fallacy of such a system, and prevent its further spread— but sir, alas! alas! the case is quite the reverse, numbers continually flock to the Wellington room and listen with eagerness to the principles there advocated; the members of our society, (Methodist,) seem to be most conspicuous in sanctioning and promoting this vile and abominable doctrine.
Oh, sir, the results to our connection will be dreadful! the havoc tremendous! just think of the majority of our leading and intelligent men, aiding and abetting a cause of this description! Oh Sir! lamentable and heartrending to witness the beaming countenances and smiles of approbation displayed recently at ’s meeting! I could enumerate a host of our members who regularly attend those anti-christian meetings— but I will just mention with your permission the names of a few who attended one of the last meetings. (Here followed a list of names.) O Mr. Editor! I quake for the consequences— such a wholesale conversion to Mormonism was never before witnessed in any town or country; what will become of our society? what will become of our class meetings? what will become of our brethren in the faith? and above all, what will become of poor Mr. Hays, that nice and humble man, who so nobly stood forward to expose the errors of the Mormon system— God bless him, and preserve him from want! but Mr. Editor, what makes the case worse, is, that a rumor is prevalent that all these pious men are to be Baptized! that is duly immersed in the salt water of Douglas Bay, by that abominable creature, !! surely, there must be something enchanting about the vile man— Immersion!! (my hand shakes while I write) and in winter too; O sir! the thought chills my very soul,— surely this American dipper intends to drown them— he can have no other object in view, therefore, brethren of the Methodist Society, beware!! drowning is not to be envied, and that too in your sins— besides what would the venerable John Wesley (if he were alive) say to such conduct? what will the Conference say? and what will the world say? I leave these questions to yourselves to answer,— in conclusion brethren, I recommend you to read, mark, [p. 2]
<1840 Octr. 31> learn, and inwardly digest the things which belong to your eternal peace, and listen no longer to the follies of men.
<Novr. 1> Sunday. The Committee organize a stake called Geneva, Morgan County, Ill: Presidents Wm. Bosley, Howard S. Smith & Samuel Fowler. Bishops Court, Gardner Clark, Moses Clare & David Orton. (page 1123)
<5> Thursday. The committee organized a branch of the Church at : Presidents Edwin P. Merriam, , and Arnold Stephens. Bishops Court, Abraham Palmer, Henry Stephens, and Jonathan Palmer. (page 1123)
<12> Thursday. The Weekly Despatch, England, having published a sarcastic article against the Saints in that Country, and blaming the Bishop of Gloucester, and his tithe fattened clergy for allowing the Mormons to delude and baptize 500 in his Diocese, Elder replied to it this day, which the Despatch refused to publish. (page 1123
I have been searching all my life to find a man after my own heart, whom I could trust with my business in all things, and I have found him; Doctor is the man.
<Decr. 3> Thursday. Elders , & visited <(page 1123> the Tower of . The Horse Armory, Jewel room, and the Thames Tunnel. (page 1123)
<4> Friday. Elders & visited Buckingham Palace, and Westminster Abbey. (page 1123
<7> Monday. Elder issued his 3rd. pamplet in defence of the truth, against the attacks of the Revd. Robert Hays, Wesleyan Minister, Douglas, Isle of Man; the three contain 35 pages of closely printed matter, which are a complete exposé of the corruptions of the Wesleyan Priesthood, and a clear illustration of the truth of the latter day work. (page 1123)
<Elders , , and visited the Anatomical Department of the College of Surgeons>
<5> Saturday. Elder writes as follows:
No. 40 Ironmonger Row, St. Lukes,
December 5th. 1840
Beloved Brethren,
I have just returned from a walk with Bros. and ; we have only been as far as St. Pauls Church, and returned by Smithfield Market about 3 miles. Bros. and had fine weather for our journey here; it was a beautiful day that we left Macclesfield [p. 3]
<1840 Decr. 5th.> for Burslem. We found the brethren in Macclesfield in good spirits, and in a good state to appearance; they appear to be well suited with Revr James Galley; I think he will be a useful man in this Kingdom. We found Bror. in Burslem not in the best of health; he is like the rest of us, the climate does not agree with him; he is affected with a bleeding at the lungs. We staid with him in the Potteries; I preached two evenings. The Church is in a good state; some of them have a pretty hard time of it. will stay there for the present. Saturday 28th., left for the next stopping place in Grets Green, where we spent the Sabbath. On Saturday evening we called to see Sister Roden, Father Patrick’s daughter; she was very glad to see us, and wanted we should stay all night. Her husband was very kind to us and bid us welcome to his house at any time, or the Elders. We could not stay; took tea with them, and agreed to send Elder Lorenzo Snow there, if he could come, blest them, and left them. I preached in the morning to the saints in Grets Green, staid afternoon meeting, and then walked to Birmingham: was very tired; heard Elder Snow preach— he is a nice young man I think. also spoke to the people after Bror. Snow had got through. We found Bror. Robert Williams here; he opened the meeting; he seems to be full of the Spirit. On Monday at 12 o’clock, and took the railway. Bror. Williams started on foot for . We arrived here on Monday evening about 6 o’clock; found well and in good spirits. We have been pretty busy since we have been here.
(page 1123)
<6> Sunday.— Elders & preached in Barrett’s Academy , and administed the Sacrament in the evening. (page 1123)
<9> Elders & visited St. Pauls Cathedral, the Monument, < &> Southwork Bridges, and also the British Museum. <(page 1123>
<25> Friday. Elders & attended a Conference at Hanley, Staffordshire Potteries, which represented an increase of 6 Elders, 26 Priests, 10 Teachers, 9 Deacons, & 356 Members, since last July Conference; and also ordained 6 Elders; 6 Priests 4 Teachers & 3 Deacons (page (1131) [p. 4]
<1840 Decr. 31> The following is a list of Books, Pamphlets, and Letters published for and against the Latter Day Saints, during the past year so far as have come under my observation, in addition to those already noticed in my history.
Fourteen numbers of the “Times & Seasons” have been issued from the Office in , containing 224 pages, edited by & , three numbers having been issued during 1839:
Eight numbers of the “Millennial Star” have been published at 149 Oldham Road, , England, containing 216 pages, edited by Elder :
A selection of Hymns was published about the first of July in England by , , and , for the use of the Saints in Europe:
The Revd Robert Hays, Wesleyan Minister, Douglas, Isle of Man, published three addresses in pamphlet form, against the Latter Day Saints, which were replied to in the following order:
An answer to some false statements and misrepresentations published by the Revd. Robert Heys, Wesleyan Minister, in an address to his Society in Douglas, and its Vicinity on the Subject of Mormonism. By Octr. 7th. 1840:
Calumny refuted, and the truth defended, being a reply to the second address of the Revd. Robert Heys. By , Douglas, Octr. 29th. 1840:
Truth defended and Methodism weighed in the Balances and found wanting; being a reply to the third address of the Revd. Robert Heys against the Latter Day Saints: And also an exposure of the principles of Methodism. By , , Decr. 7th. 1840:
The Latter Day Saints and the Book of Mormon; <being> a few words of warning against the Latter Day Saints, from a minister to his flock. W. J. Morrish, Ledbury, Herefordshire, Septr.:
A second warning by the same W. J. Morrish, Octr. 15th.:
A few more facts relating to the Self-styled “Latter-Day-Saints”; by John Simons, Church <of England> Minister, Dymock Herefordshire Septr. 14th.:
Several letters written by Mr. J. Curran and published in the Manx Liberal, Isle of Man, in October, were replied to by Elder .
Mormonism weighed in the Balances of the Sanctuary and found wanting: the substance of four lectures by Samuel [p. 5] <1840 Decr. 31> Haining. Published in Douglas, Isle of Man; a tract of 66 pages.
Interesting account of several remarkable Visions, and of the late discovery of Ancient American Records, giving an account of the commencement of the work of the Lord in this generation. By Elder , Edinburgh, September:
The word of the Lord to the citizens of , of every sect and denomination: and to every individual into whose hands it may fall:— shewing forth the plan of Salvation, as laid down in the New Testament:— namely, faith in our Lord Jesus Christ— Repentance— Baptism for the remission of sins— and the Gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands. Presented by & , Elders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day-Saints:
An exposure of the errors and fallacies of the self-named “Latter Day Saints.” By William Hewitt of Lane End, Staffordshire Potteries:
An answer to Mr. William Hewitt’s tract against the Latter Day Saints. By Elder :
Plain Facts; shewing the falsehood and folly of the Revd. C. Bush (the Church of England Minister of the Parish of Peover, Cheshire); being a reply to his tract against the Latter Day Saints. By Elder :
A few remarks by way of reply to an anonymous scribler calling himself “A Philanthropist,” disabusing the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, of the Slanders and falsehoods, which he has attempted to fasten upon it. By , :
Mormonism unmasked, and s reply answered and refuted. By a Philanthropist of Chester County. Published in .
An Appeal to the American People: Being an account of the persecutions of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and of the barbarities inflicted on them by the inhabitants of the State of . 60 closely <printed> pages, second edition revised. By Authority of said Church. Joseph Smith Jr., , , Presidents.
A reply to Mr. Thos. Taylor’s Pamphlet, entitled “Complete Failure” &c; and also to Mr. Richard Livesey’s Tract “Mormonism [p. 6] <1840 Decr. 31> Exposed.” By :
The Editor of the London Despatch, published an article on Novr. 8th. against the Latter Day Saints, containing some of the false statements of Capt. D. L. St. Clair, in his Tract against them, which was replied to by Elder in the November No. of the Millenial Star:
“The Millenium, and other Poems: <to> which is annexed, “A treatise on the Regeneration, and Eternal Duration of Matter. By ,—— —— .
<1841 Jany 1> Elders , , & attended a Conference in .
Elders , and are in .
Elder in Edinburgh.
Elder in Burslem.
Elder in .
Elders & are on route for .
Elder at , Hancock Co. Ills.
<May 16> Sunday. Conference <met> in pursuant to adjournment. Elders (of the twelve Apostles), Lorenzo Snow, (High Priests), two Elders, several Priests, Teachers and Deacons, with a respectable company of members present. Elder Snow represented the branch consisting of 74 Members, and good prospect for increase. The branch at Bedford was represented by , consisting of 68 Members, 8 Priests, and 1 Teacher. John Griffith, Priest, represented the branch at Woolwich, consisting of 6 Members. Elder Jno. Bourne who was sent to labor at Ipswich, was obliged to leave, there being no prospect of success, and the brethren refusing to entertain him, so that he had to sleep on the ground. In consequence of this the Conference passed a resolution condemnatory of their conduct. (page 1203
<25>
“Head Quarters, Nauvoo, Legion,
City of , Illinois,
May 25th. 1841
General Orders.
The 1st. Company (riflemen) 1st. Battalion, 2nd. Regiment, 2nd. Cohort, will be attached to the escort contemplated in the [p. 7]
<1841May 25> general orders of the 4th. inst, for the 3rd. of July next.
In forming the Legion, the will observe the rank of companies in the order they are named, to wit:
1st. Cohort.— Flying Artillery.
Lancers.
Visiting companies of Dragoons.
Cavalry.
Riflemen.
2nd. Cohort.— Artillery.
Lancers
Riflemen
Light Infantry.
Infantry.
Visiting companies in their appropriate place on the right of the troops of their own grade.
The ranking company of the 1st. Cohort will be formed on the right of said Cohort, and the ranking company of the 2nd. Cohort will be formed on the left of said Cohort,— the next on the left of the right, the next on the right of the left, and so on to the center.
The escort will be formed on the right of the forces.
Joseph Smith
(page 1204 Lieutenant General.”
<June 11> Friday. Elder met Elder at , and advised him to take up contributions to enable him to sail within three days in the Garrick for England, where he would <and> overtake Elder , and accompany him to , promising to use all the influence and exertion in his power to assist him. rejected the proposition. subsequently learned that had sufficient money in hand, without collections to have taken him through to England. (page 1207
<July 24> Saturday
(“ 24th. July 1841
Revd. Joseph Smith,
Dr. Sir— I have this moment received a letter from dated yesterday at , in which he states his intention of leaving for the west. It certainly was my expectation that I should again see him before his de [p. 8]
<1841 July 24th.>parture, and be able to make some arrangement with him respecting the interest due to myself, and . In this I am disappointed and considering that a proposition for effecting this object emanated from your brother and the , to which no allusion has since been made by them or any body else, I and think we have much reason to be dissatisfied at this silence and apparent neglect. Now all the transactions relating to have by me and my friends been entered into in the most perfect good faith, and will continue to be conducted upon the most honorable principles. Permit me to ask whether this <is> a proper return for the confidence we have bestowed, and for the indulgence we have extended? If you have not already requested your brother to call on me when he arrives east, will you write him immediately, and say that it is my urgent wish?
Relative to the Note the has written me, and referred to Mr. at New Egypt on whom I shall call next week.
Your Obt. Servant,
(page 1222) .”)
<25> Sunday. Attended meeting in the . Elders & preached in the forenoon. In the afternoon Elder preached a general funeral sermon, designed to comfort and instruct the saints, especially those who had been called to mourn the loss of relatives and friends. I followed him, illustrating the subject of the resurrection by some familiar figures.
Elder married Bathsheba W. Bigler, performed the ceremony, which was the last <official> act of his life of a business nature, he being very feeble at the time.
Bror. Willm. Yokum had his leg amputated by Dr. , who operated free of charge; he was wounded in the massacre at , Octr. 30th. 1838, and had lain on his back ever since; and now it was found the only chance to save his life was to have it <his leg> cut off. He was also shot through the head at the same massacre. (page 1219
<Augt. 5th>
“ Pennsylvania, Augt. 5th. 1841
Brother Joseph, I am at present at the Branch [p. 9]
<1841 Augt. 5> —— I expect to leave here for the Country next week. left for last week—— In the business, requested me to do all I could,—— Brother has received orders on you from to the amount of twenty-five hundred dollars. The property that he has given these orders for is well worth the money. I expect in in a few days to receive this property <which is Cook’s Mills> Tavern Stand, attached to six acres of ground with all the appurtenances. Some of the people think it worth three thousand dollars. Now the question is, shall I let have this property for less than twenty-five hundred, since that is the price you will have to pay at . Why I ask this question is: I have understood that has said that he would not allow over twenty-two hundred dollars. I got hold of another small piece of land, worth five hundred; and if will take all at a fair price, I shall be enabled to settle the amount of <three> thousand dollars soon. Please write me an answer to the above question.——
The cause in these eastern lands is flourishing, and we want more laborers; fifty doors opened for preaching where there is but one to laborer. I wish you would send us help, help, help! If you hear or see anything of Joshua [Grant] & , tell them to come east immediately; the Devil is raging, and the Priests are howling, and Babylon is falling with her merchandise. She can’t deceive the people with her false doctrines where Mormonism takes a hold.
Yours in the bonds of the Covenant,
(page 1219 .
<12th> Thursday. A considerable number of the Sac & Fox Indians have been for several days encamped in the neighborhood of . The ferryman this morning brought over a great number on the Ferry boat and two Flat boats for the purpose of visiting me. <The Military band, and a detachment of Invincibles were on shore ready to receive & escort them to the grove, but they refused to come on shore until I went down.> I accordingly went down, and met “,” “Kish-ku-Kosh,” “,” and about 100 Chiefs and Braves of those tribes with their families at the landing, introduced my brother to them, and after the usual salutations, conducted them to the meeting ground in the grove, and instructed them in many things which the Lord had [p. 10] <1841 Augt. 12> revealed unto me concerning their Fathers, and the promises that were made concerning them in the Book of Mormon; and advised them to cease killing each other and warring with other tribes, and keep peace with the whites; which was interpreted to them. replied he had a Book of Mormon at his Wickaup which I had given him some years before. “I believe,” said he, “you are a great and good man; I look rough, but I also am a Son of the Great Spirit. I’ve heard your advice— we intend to quit fighting and follow the good talk you have given us.” After the conversation they were feasted on the green with good food, dainties, and melons by the brethren; and they entertained the spectators with a specimen of their dancing. <see page 1220—>
<25> Wednesday. Elder died at , Lake Co:, Ohio., aged 49 years. He was the son of Pierce and Clarissa Granger, born in the Town of Phelps, Ontario Co: New York 7th. Feby. 1794; received a common school education, was two years a member of the Methodist Church, and was <a> licensed—— exhorter. On the 8th. Septr. 1813 he married ; in the year 1827 he in a great measure lost his sight by cold and exposure; he was—— Sheriff of : and Colonel—— in the Militia. He received the Gospel on reading the Book of Mormon, which he providentially obtained, and was baptized at Sodus, Wayne Co:, and ordained an Elder by & , they being the first Elders he saw, and immediately devoted his time to preaching and warning the people. In the year 1833 he moved to , and then took a mission to the East with Elder <Samuel> Newcomb— returned——, and was ordained a High Priest——; took another mission in the spring of 1836 to with ; and after his return built up a branch at Huntsburg, Geauga Co:, Ohio; also a branch at Perry, Richland Co:, where he baptized Bradley Wilson, with his seven sons and their wives——
When the Church left , he was appointed to settle the Church business.
In June 1838 he went to , and returned—— in August of same year; in October he again started taking his family——; he went 70 miles into , and was driven back to the mob—— [p. 11] <1841 Augt. 25> ——; in the spring of 1839 he went to . In 1840 he removed to with his family——, where he remained until his death.
He was a man of—— good business qualifications, but had been for many years nearly blind. His funeral was attended by a vast concourse of people from the neighboring Towns, although there were but few saints in the country (page 1223
<Jany 26> Elders and saw Queen Victoria on her way to open Parliament, and through the politeness of an Officer of the Horse Guards to whom they had an introduction by Dr. Copeland——, they were permitted to stand in front of the line, and thereby had a fine view.
Sir James Bremer, on behalf of the British, took possession of Hong Kong. (page 1159
<Augt. 7> -[My youngest brother died.]- He was born 25th. March 1816, was one of the first to receive my testimony, and was ordained to the Priesthood when only 14 years of age. The evening after—— the plates <of the Book of Mormon were shewn> to the eight witnesses, a meeting was held, when all the witnesses, as also bore testimony to the truth of the Latter Day dispensation He accompanied to visit Grandfather and relatives in N.Y., in August 1830. During that mission he convinced , a licensiate of the <Baptist> order, of the truth of the work. He was one of the 24 Elders who laid the corner stones of the . In the fall of 1833 he entered the office of , to learn the art of printing. On the 30th. July 1835 he married in , Ohio. On the 15th. January 1836 he was ordained President of the High Priest’s Quorum. He took a mission with [Solomon] Wilber Denton in the Spring and Summer of 1836 in and , as far as Seneca Falls. On the commencement of the publication of the Elders Journal in , he took the control of the establishment until the office was destroyed by fire in December 1837, when in consequence of persecution he moved his family to .
Early in the spring of 1838 he took a mission through the States of , and , and raised means to assist his ; and immediately after his return he started <to with his family, in company with and family, and purchased a farm in .> on a mission to the States of Tennessee & Kentucky to collect means to buy out the claims and property of the Mobbers in :. [p. 12]
<1841 Augt. 7.> On the 26th. September he started on a mission to the States of Tennessee and Kentucky to collect means to buy out the claims and property of the Mobbers in Mo. During his absence his and two little children were driven by the mob from his habitation, and she was compelled to carry her children three miles through snow three inches deep, and wading through which was waist deep during the inclement weather. He returned about the 25th. of December after a very tedious mission, having travelled 1500 miles, 650 of which were on foot. I extract the following from his journal:
“On the 30th. day of September 1838, I in company with , and went on board the “Kansas”, (which had one wheel broke;) the was very low, & full of snags and sand bars. Generals and of , Coll. Thompson from Platte purchase, and many others of the active mobbers were on board, as also General . On touching at on 1st. October for wood, we found about 70 of the brethren with their families surrounded by an armed mob of upwards of 200. The women and children there were much frightened, expecting it was a boat loaded with mobbers. We would have stopped and assisted them, but being unarmed, we thought it best to fulfil our mission. From this onward the “Mormons” were the only subject of conversation, and nothing was heard but the most bitter imprecations against them. related many of his deeds of noble daring in the mob, one of which was the following: ‘I went, in company with forty others, to the house of , <a mormon,> in . We got logs and broke in every door and window at the same instant; and, pointing our rifles at the family, we told them, we would be God d—d if we did’nt shoot every one of them, if did not come out. At that, a tall woman made her appearance, with a child in her arms. I told the boys she was too d—d tall. In a moment the boys stripped her, and found it was . I told them to give him a d—d good one. We gave him sixty or seventy blows with hickory withes which we had prepared. Then, after pulling the roof off the house, we went to the next d—d Mormon’s house, and whipped him in like manner. We continued until we whipped ten or fifteen of the God d—d Mormons, and demolished their houses that night. If the Carroll boys would do that way, [p. 13]
<1841 Augt. 7> they might conquer; but it is no use to think of driving them without four or five to one. I wish I could stay; I would help drive the d—d Mormons to hell, old Joe, and all the rest. At this I looked the sternly in the face, and told him, that he was neither a republican nor a gentleman, but a savage, without a single principle of honor <or humanity,>. If, said I, ‘the Mormons have broken the law, let it be strictly executed against them; but such anti-republican, and unconstitutional acts as these related by you, are beneath the brutes.’ We were upon the hurricane deck, and a large company present were listening to the conversation. While I was speaking, placed his hand upon his pistol, which was belted under the skirt of his coat; but Cousin stood by his side, watching every move of his hand, and would have knocked him into the river instantly, had he attempted to draw a deadly weapon. But saved him the trouble, by saying, “I’ll be God d—d to hell if Smith aint right.’ At this, left the company, crest-fallen. In the course of the conversation said, that best plan was, to rush into the ‘Mormon’ Settlements, murder the men, make slaves of the children, take possession of the property, and use the women as they pleased.
A gentleman present from Baltimore, Maryland, said he never was among such a pack of d—d savages before; he had passed through , and saw nothing among the “Mormons” but good order. Then, drawing his pistols, he discharged them, and re-loading, said, ‘if God spares my life till I get out of Upper , I will never be found associating with such devils again.’
Shortly after this we were invited to preach on board. and I preached. The rest of the way we were treated more civilly; but being deck passengers, and having very little money, we suffered much for food.
We continued our journey together through every species of hardship and fatigue, until the eleventh of October, when and left us at Paducah after our giving them all the money we had, they starting up the Ohio river, and we, to visit the Churches in West Tennessee and Kentucky. Soon after this, Julian Moses gave us a five franc piece, and bade us farewell.
We soon found that the mob spirit was in Kentucky, as well as [p. 14]
<1841 Augt. 7> in ;—— we preached in a small branch of the Church <in Calloway Co.> and staid at the house of Sister Seeley Griffon <Selah Parker,> which was surrounded in the night by about twenty armed men, led by <John Mc.Cartney> a Campbellite Priest, who had sworn to kill the first Mormon Elder who should dare to preach in that place. The family were very much terrified. After trying the doors, the mobbers finally went away. We visited a number of small branches <in Tennessee>; the brethren generally arranged to be on hand with their money, or lands for exchange in the spring. Bror. Samuel West,—— gave us twenty-eight dollars to help defray our travelling expenses. We also received acts of kindness from others which will never be forgotten.
About this time our minds were seized with an awful foreboding— horror seemed to have laid his grasp upon us— we lay awake night after night, for we could not sleep. Our forebodings increased, and we felt sure that all was not right; yet we continued preaching, until the Lord showed us that the Saints would be driven from . We then started home, and, on arriving at Wyatt’s Mills, we were told, that if we preached there it would cost us our lives. We had given out an appointment at the house of Mrs Foster, a wealthy widow. She also advised us to give it up; but, as she had no fears for herself, her property, or family, we concluded to fulfil our appointment. The hour of meeting came, and many attended. preached about an hour; during which time Captain Fitch came in at the head of twelve other mobbers, who had large hickory clubs, and they sat down with their hats on. When took his seat, I arose and addressed them for an hour and a half, during which time, I told them that I was a patriot— that I was free— that I loved my country— that I loved liberty— that I despised both mobs and mobbers— that no gentleman, or Christian at heart, would ever be guilty of such things, or countenance them. Whereupon the mob pulled off their hats, laid down their clubs, and listened with almost breathless attention.
After meeting, Mr. Fitch came to us and said that he was ashamed of his conduct, and would never do the like again; that he had been misinformed about us by some religious [p. 15]
<1841 Augt. 7> bigots, and begged of us to forgive him, which we did.
We continued our journey to Columbus, Hickman county, Kentucky, and put up with Captain Robinson, formerly an officer in the army, who treated us very kindly, assuring us that we were welcome to stay at his house until a boat should come, if it were <three> months. We staid nine days, during which a company of thirteen hundred Cherokee Indians ferried over the river.
We went on board the Steamer Louisville, and had to pay all our money for a deck passage. About ninety miles from our boat got aground, where it lay three days. We had nothing to eat but a little parched corn. We then went on board of a little boat, <“>the Return<”>, which landed us in the next morning. Here we found Elder and learned that Joseph was a prisoner with many others, and that was Killed, and of the sufferings of the Saints, which filled our hearts with sorrow.
The next morning we started on foot for home; at , about 200 miles, we stopped at the house of George Lyman to rest. ’s feet had now become very sore with walking.
We had not been long in before the Mob made a rally to use us up <as they said> with the rest of the Smith’s; and, at the earnest request of our friends, we thought best to push on, and started about ten at night. The wind was in our faces, the ground slippery, and the night very dark; nevertheless we proceeded on our journey. Travelling twenty-two miles, we came to the Chariton river, which we found frozen over, but the ice too weak to bear us, and the boat on the west side of the river. We went to the next ferry, but finding there was no boat, and <knowing> that in the next neighborhood a man’s brains were beat out, for being a ‘Mormon’, we returned to the first ferry, and tried by hallooing to raise the ferryman on the opposite side of the river, but were not able to awake him. We were almost benumbed with the cold, and to warm ourselves we commenced scuffling and jumping; we then beat our feet upon the logs and stumps, in order to start a circulation of blood; but at last became so cold and sleepy that he could not stand it any longer, and lay down. I told him he was freezing to death; I rolled him on the ground, pounding and thumping him; I then cut a stick and said I would thrash him. At this he got up, and undertook to thrash me; this stirred his blood a little, but he soon lay down again. By this time the ferryman came [p. 16]
<1841 Augt. 7 > over, and set us across the river, where we warmed ourselves a little, and pursued our journey until about breakfast time, when we stopped at the house of a man, who, we afterwards learned, was a leader of the mob at massacre; and started the next morning without breakfast. Our route lay through a wild prairie, where there was but very little track, and only one house in forty miles. The north-west wind blew fiercely in our faces, and the ground was so slippery that we could scarcely keep our feet, and when the night came on, to add to our perplexity, we lost our way; soon after which, I become so cold that it was with great difficulty I could keep from freezing. We also became extremely thirsty; however, we found a remedy for this by cutting through ice three inches thick with a penknife. While we were drinking, we heard a cow bell; this caused our hearts to leap for joy, and we arose and steered our course towards the sound. We soon entered Tenneys grove, which sheltered us from the wind, and we felt more comfortable. In a short time we came to the house, of Whitford G. Wilson, where—— we were made welcome and kindly entertained. We laid down to rest about two o’clock in the morning, after having travelled one hundred and ten miles in two days and two nights. After breakfast I set out for , leaving sick with our hospitable friend. When I arrived <on the evening of Dec 25> I was fortunate enough to find my family alive, and in tolerable health; which was more than I could have expected, considering the scenes of persecution through which they had passed.”
visited us several times while we were in , and brought our wives to see us, and some money and—— articles to relieve our necessities. He took charge of ’s family in his flight from , and saw them removed to , Illinois for safety.
In June 1839 he commenced making preparations for printing the Times and Seasons. The press and type had been resurrected by , and others, from its grave in Dawson’s yard, , where it was buried for safety the night that surrounded the with the mob militia. The form for a No. of the Elder’s Journal was buried with the ink on it. They were considerably injured by the damp; it was [p. 17] <1841 Aug 7> therefore necessary to get them into use as soon as possible, and in order to <do> this, was under the necessity of cleaning out a cellar through which a spring was constantly flowing, as the only place where he could put up the press. and being sick, threw the entire burden on him.
As a great number of brethren lay sick in the town, on Tuesday 23rd. July 1839, I told and to go and visit all the sick, exercise mighty faith, and administer to them in the name of Jesus Christ, commanding the destroyer to depart, and the people to arise and walk; and—— not to leave a single person on the bed between my house and ’s, two miles distant; they administered to over 60 persons, many of whom thought they would never sit up again; but they were healed, arose from their beds, and gave glory to God; some of them assisted—— in visiting and administering to others who were sick.
Working in the damp cellar, and administering to the sick impaired his health, so that the first number of the Times & Seasons was not issued until November. He edited 31 numbers.
He was elected Major in the Hancock county Militia, and on the death of —— Lieutenant Colonel.
He was elected on 1st. February 1841, a member of the city Council of ——; and took the necessary oath on 3rd. February, and on the 4th. he was elected Brigadier General of the first Cohort of the Nauvoo Legion.
He was 6 feet 4 inches high, was very straight and well made; had light hair, and was very strong and active. His usual weight when in health was—— 200 lbs. He was universally <beloved by the Saints>
He left three daughters, namely Agnes C., Sophronia C., and Josephine D. (see page 1219
<Sept. 13> Bro. Edward Hunter <Senr.> of Penn. visited , and purchased $4500. of town lots and farming land: paid me $2.000 in cash and made arrangements to pay the balance in two months.
Received and invitation from Brigadier General and Colonel of the militia of Iowa, to attend the military parade tomorrow at as. visitor.— Genls and received a similar invitation
<(14> Went over to . <(accompanied by bross. , of Penn:) & Wm. A. Gheen> I was very courteously received by , the officers and militia. Mr. attempted to get [p. 18] <1841 Sept 14> up an ill feeling by reading the following proclamation at noon, during the recess of exercise, to a considerable number of persons collected round his store; which I insert verbatim:
“Citizens of The laws of do not require you to muster under or be Reviewed by Joe Smith or and should they have the impudence to attempt it, it is hoped that every person having a proper respect for himself will at once Leave the Ranks”
This however had no effect whatever on the people.
Myself and were not in military uniform, but were treated with every respect that visiting officers of our rank could be through the entire day. At the dismissal of the military I went to ’s store, and desired to have some conversation with him, but was peremptorily ordered out of doors. This conduct greatly disgusted his few friends, who upbraided with his ungentlemanly conduct and accompanied me to the ferry, where I left them shewing me every manifestation of friendship, (see page 1226)
<July 13> A treaty <was> signed between Turkey, Russia, England, France, <page 1214> Austria, and Prussia; whereby the Dardanelles are closed to all foreign ships of war, as long as the Ottoman Porte enjoys peace
<28> The Jewish quarter of Smyrna burned, destroying 3000 houses <pp 1219> and 8 synagogues
<Oct 1> I received a letter from requesting to be excused from accompanying on his mission to <1227> Mass., on account of ill health and pecuniary embarrassments; and expressing his conviction that had means enough to accompany Elder to .
<31> Attended a Council with the Twelve Apostles. being present, complained that he had been neglected and misrepresented by the Elders, and manifested a contentious spirit. <1242> I gave him a severe reproof telling him of his folly and vanity and shewing him that the principles which he suffered to control him, would lead him to destruction. I counselled him to change his course— govern his dispositions, and quit his talebearing and slandering his brethren. I instructed the Council on many principles pertaining to the gathering of the nations— the wickedness and downfall of this generation. &c.
<Nov 7> Sunday. Elder William O. Clark preached about 2 hours <1244> reproving the Saints for a lack of Sanctity and a want of holy living; enjoining sanctity, solemnity and temperance in the extreme [p. 19] <1841 Nov 7> in the rigid sectarian style.
I reproved him as Pharisaical and hypocritical; and not edifying the people; and shewed the Saints what Temperance, faith virtue, charity and truth were. I charged the Saints not to follow the example of the adversary in accusing the brethren, and said “if you do not accuse each other God will not accuse you. If you have no accuser you will enter heaven; and if you will follow the Revelations and instructions which God gives you through me, I will take you into heaven as my back load. If you will not accuse me, I will not accuse you. If you will throw a cloak of charity over my sins, I will over yours— for charity covereth a multitude of sins. What many people call sin is not sin; I do many things to break down superstition, and I will break it down:” I referred to the curse of Ham for laughing at Noah, while in his wine but doing no harm. Noah was a righteous man, and yet he drank wine, and became intoxicated the Lord did not forsake him in consequence thereof; for he retained all the power of his Priesthood and when he was accused by Cainaan, he cursed him by the Priesthood which he held, and the Lord had respect to his word and the Priesthood which he held, notwithstanding he was drunk; and the curse remains upon the posterity of Cainaan until the present day.
<1841 April 15> I copy the following from the Millennial Star
“Difference between the Baptists and Latter Day Saints.
From the “North Staffordshire Mercury”
Sir,— In a late publication, you reported the case of some persons who were taken before T. B. Rose Esq. for disturbing a congregation of “Latter Day Saints,” or believers in the “Book of Mormon.” A teacher of that sect, on being asked by the magistrate wherein they differed from the Baptists, replied, “In the laying on of hands;” but declined making an honest confession of those peculiarities which separate them as widely from the Baptists, as from every other denomination of the christian church. This was certainly prudent; but as the Baptists feel themselves dishonoured by such an alliance, they would be unjust to themselves were they to leave unanswered such a libel upon their denomination. The following very prominent marks of difference will enable your readers to judge for themselves [p. 20]
<1841 April 15> 1.— The Saints admit all persons indiscriminately to baptism, encouraging them to pass through that rite, with the promise that great spiritual improvement will follow: They baptize for remission of sins, without waiting for credible evidence of repentance for sin. But the Baptists admit none to that ordinance who do not exhibit this qualification in the most satisfactory manner; and if they found a candidate looking to the water of baptism as having virtue to cleanse him from sin, he would be put back until better instructed.
2.— After baptism the Saints kneel down, and their priest laying on his hands, professes to give them the Holy Ghost. If effects similar to those produced by the laying on of the Apostles’ hands were seen to follow, scepticism must yield to the force of such evidence; but in their case no such effects are produced; the baptized sinner is a sinner still, though flattered and deluded with the epithet “Latter Day Saint.” The Baptists regard such mummery with as much disgust as all Christians do.
3.— Having, as they suppose, the extraordinary gifts of the Spirit, the Saints consistently pretend to have the power of working wonders, and profess to heal the sick with Holy Oil; also to the power of prophecy. As most moral evils bring with them their own remedy, these lofty pretentions will ruin them in due, by opening the eyes of the most deluded, as in the case of the countless sects of impostors who have appeared upon the stage before them. It need not be added, that the Baptists stand far removed from such conceits, and have no part in them.
4.— Not satisfied with the Bible, as a complete revelation from God, the “Latter Day Saints” have adopted a romance written in America, as a fresh revelation, and have added a trashy volume of 600 pages to that Book, which we are forbidden to add to, or take from, under the most awful penalties! But even this is not enough for their impious presumption. They have published a monthly magazine, in which “new revelations” are served up fresh as they arrive for the use of all who can swallow them. The disgust with which the Baptists regard such a melancholy exhibition of human folly and wickedness, separates them to an impassable distance from such people. [p. 21]
<1841 April 15> 5.— In order to carry on this order of things, the Latter Day Saints have appointed two Priesthoods. “The lesser, or Aaronic Priesthood, is to hold the keys of the Ministering of Angels, and to administer in outward ordinances” ‘The power and authority of the Higher, or Melchizedec Priesthood, is to hold the keys of all the spiritual Blessings of the Church— to have the privilege of receiving the mysteries of the Kingdom of Heaven— to have the heavens opened to them— to commune with the general assembly and Church of the First born; and to enjoy the communion and presence of God the Father, and of Jesus the Mediator of the New Covenant” (See page 13). So that in this wonderful priesthood, they have provided for an ample supply of new things in endless variety, and without end, from the hands of wretched men, who blasphemously aspire to a dignity which belongs alone to Him who is the only “Priest for ever after the order of Melchizedec.”
The fear of trespassing upon you valuable columns, Mr Editor, prevents my enlarging upon these and very many other points of difference; but enough has been done to shew your readers, that no two sects can differ more widely from each other, than the Baptists and Latter Day Saints; and that to confound them in any way together is not only unjust to the former is not only unjust to the former, but involves them in the disgrace of being partakers in a bold imposition, or a pitiable delusion, which they regard with equal abhorence and disgust.
A. Baptist
Hanley Feb 16, 1841
The foregoing article attempts to shew the difference between the Baptists and Latter Day Saints. We will now attempt to show the difference between the Baptists and Former Day Saints
1st.— The Former Day Saints baptized, for remission of sins, Acts 11. 38. The Baptists baptize those only who are supposed to have their sins forgiven before they are baptized.
2nd.— The Former Day Saints admitted all persons indiscriminately to baptism, as soon as they professed faith and repentance, encouraging them to pass through that rite with the promise that great spiritual improvement would follow, Acts 11. 38–41 inclusive. But if the Baptists found the Penitent believer looking for remission of sins through that rite, they would be put back to “get religion” where they could find it [p. 22]
<1841 April 15> 3rd.— After baptism, the Former-day Saints prayed for and laid hands on the disciples in the name of Jesus, and professed to give them the Holy Ghost, Acts viii. 17, also Acts xix. 6. The Baptists say “they regard such mummery with as much disgust as all Christians do.”
4th.— Having, as they supposed the extraordinary gifts of the spirit, the Former Day Saints consistently pretended to have the power of working wonders, and professed to heal the sick with Holy Oil Jas v. 14. 15. Also to the power of prophecy. First Corinthians from 12th to 14th Chapter. It need not be added that the Baptists stand far removed from “such conceits,” and have no part in them; nor in anything pertaining to the gifts and power of God: or to use the Apostles own words, they have a form of Godliness, denying the power.
5th.— Not satisfied with the Bible as a complete revelation from God, the Former Day Saints have added a volume of several hundred pages (the New Testament), to that book, which (according to Baptist logic) Moses forbid them to add to, or take from. Dieut. iv. 2. But even this was not enough; but new revelations were served up almost daily, fresh as they arrived, for all those who could swallow them. “The disgust with which the Baptists regard such things, considering them but a melancholy exhibition of human folly and wickedness,” separates them to an impassable distance from the Former Day Saints: and how with all these differences the Baptists should ever have been thought by themselves or any body else, to be the Church of Christ, is difficult to imagine!
6th.— In order to carry on their strange work, or order of things, the Former Day Saints had two priesthoods. The Aaronic Priesthood administered in outward ordinances, as in the case of John the Baptist. The power and authority of the higher or Melchizedec Priesthood was to hold the keys of all the spiritual blessings of the Church, as Jesus said, “I give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven— whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven,” &c., They were to have the privilege of knowing the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven. “To you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom,”— to have the heavens opened unto them— to commune with the general assembly and church of the firstborn; and to enjoy the communion and presence of God the Father, and of Jesus the mediator of the new covenant [p. 23]
<1841 April 15> Heb xii. 22. 23. 24. So that in this wonderful Priesthood, they have provided for an ample supply of new things in endless variety, and without end, from those who are and were counted the off scouring of all things; and who as the baptists would insinuate, “did aspire to a dignity which they say, “belongs only to him who is the only Priest for ever after the order of Melchizedec.”
The fear of trespassing upon the time and patience of our readers, prevents our enlarging upon these and many other points of difference; but enough has been said to show that no two sects can possibly differ more widely from each other than do the Baptists and Former Day Saints,— and to amalgamate the two systems in any way is not only an act of injustice— but would involve the Baptists, who by the by are an honorable body, in the disgrace of that sect which was “every where spoken against” See Acts.
<March 1> I presented the following report:
“Your Committee to whom was referred that portion of the address of his honor the , which recommended the propriety of vacating the Town Plats of , and the city of , and incorporating them with the city Plot of , would respectfully report, That they consider the recommendation contained in the address as one of great importance to the future welfare and prosperity of this , and if carried into effect would make the streets regular and uniform, and materially tend to beautify this . We would therefore respectfully recommend that the survey of the city of be carried through the Town Plots of and the city of as soon as it may be practicable.
We would therefore recommend to the Council the passage of the following Resolution:
That the Town Plots of and be vacated, and that the same stand vacated from this time forth, and for ever; And that the same be incorporated with the City of from this time henceforth and for ever.
All which is respectfully submitted.
Joseph Smith, Chairman
<1841 March 21> The lesser Priesthood was organized in City of , by Bishops , , and . was chosen president of the Priests’ Quorum, and and , his counsellors.
Elisha Averett was chosen president of the Teachers’ Quorum, and James W. Huntsman & James Hendricks, Counsellors.
was chosen president of the Deacons’ <(Book C. page 1173)> Quorum, and David Wood & William W. Lane, Counsellors. [p. 25]
<1842 april 28 > Instructions delivered by Prest. Joseph Smith, before the Female Relief Society. April 28th. 1842 reported by Miss
<Read to the council apr lst. 1855> Prest Joseph Smith arose and called the attention of the meeting to the 12th. chapter 1st Corinthians. “Now concerning Spiritual gifts I would not have you Ignorant” Said that the <Page 1326> passage in the 3rd verse <which> reads “No man can Say that Jesus is the Lord but by the holy Ghost” Should be translated “no man can know that Jesus is the Lord but by the holy Ghost” He continued to read the chapter, and give instructions respecting the different offices, and the necessity of every individual acting in the Sphere allotted him or her, and filling the Several offices to which they were appointed.— Spoke of the disposition of many men to consider the lower offices in the church dishonorable and to look with jealous eyes upon the Standing of others who are called to preside over them, That it was the folly & nonsense of the human heart for a Person to be aspiring to other Stations than those to which they <are> appointed of God for them to occupy that it was better for Individuals to magnify their respective callings and wait patiently till God Shall Say to them “come up higher” He Said the reason of these remarks being made was, that Some little foolish things were circulating in the Society, against Some Sisters Not doing right in laying hands on the Sick. Said if the People had common Sympathies they would rejoice that the Sick could be healed; That the time had not been before that these things could be in their Proper order; that the church is not fully organized, in its Proper order, and cannot be, untill the is completed, where places will be provided for the Administration of the ordinances of the Priesthood.
President Smith continued the Subject, by quoting the commission given to to the ancient apostles in Mark 16th chapter 15, 16, 17, 18, verses, “Go ye into all the world and Preach the gospel to every creature. He that Believeth & is baptized Shall be Saved; but he that believeth not Shall be damned. And these Signs Shall follow them that believe: In my my name Shall they cast out devils; they Shall Speak with new tongues; They Shall take up Serpants; and if they Shall Drink any deadly thing, it Shall not hurt them they [s]hall Lay hands on the Sick & they Shall recover.” No matter who believeth, these Signs [p. 26] such as healing the Sick, casting out devils &c Should follow all that believe whether male or female. He asked the Society if they could not See by this Sweeping promise, that wherein they are ordained it is the privaledge of those Set apart to administer in that authority which is confered on them; and if the Sisters Should have faith to heal the Sick let all hold their tongues, and let every thing roll on.
He said if God has apointed him and chosen him
(continued on page 38 )
<1841 Augt. 26>
<p 1223>
An Epistle of the Twelve <Apostles>, to the saints scattered abroad among the nations Greeting,
Beloved Brethren— You will perceive by the [blank] minutes of a Conference held in this , on the 16th. inst.——, that we have returned from the mission which was required of us by the Lord, and have now been called upon to assist in building up the stakes of Zion, and of planting the saints upon the lot of their inheritance: and feeling as we do a humble reliance upon divine aid at all times, in our unremitting desire to be useful to our fellow men, and especially to the household of faith, that they may be prepared for the great things which God is about to reveal and which speedily await this generation, we feel anxious to improve the earliest opportunity to make known unto you the mind of the spirit concerning those things which require your more immediate attention.
It will be discovered in the minutes before referred to, that we have already began to select such individuals as have been with the church, and have had the opportunity of becoming acquainted with the principles thereof to some extent and to designate certain towns and cities where they will locate themselves and build up churches inasmuch as the people are willing to receive them. These generally will not take their departure from this for their several stations, until after the October conference, previous to which they will have the opportunity of receiving particular instructions in relation to their mission and of becoming more perfectly acquainted with those principles which are necessary to be acted upon, in order that they may become highly useful in helping to roll forth the kingdom [p. 27]
of God in these last days.
All those elders and priests who are now in the vineyard will communicate with us immediately and inform us of their situations, designs, and all things relating to their ministry, and improve the earliest opportunity of repairing hither where they will have the privilege of instruction from the first Presidency and thereby understanding principle and doctrine, not to be learned elsewhere, and which is necessary for them to know, that they may become wise stewards in their master’s house.
We are engaged in a great work, and but little comparatively can be known of the magnitude thereof, of the Revelations of heaven, and the order of the kingdom, by the Saints while they are scattered to the four winds; and this being well understood by the ancient prophets and apostles was the reason why they so often spoke of the gathering in the last days, and as this is the place where the Elders are to receive instruction concerning their ministry, so as to become successful ministers of the dispensation of the fulness of times, so also this is the place where the brethren may receive such instructions as are necessary to constitute them a righteous and holy people, prepared for the reception of the Lord Jesus; therefore, we say to all Saints who desire to do the will of heaven, arise, and tarry not, but come up hither to the places of gathering as speedily as possible, for the time is rapidly approaching when the Saints will have occasion to regret, that they have so long neglected to assemble themselves together and stand in holy places awaiting those tremendous events which are so rapidly approaching the nations of the earth.
It will be recollected that in a recent communication from the First Presidency, all places of gathering are discontinued, excepting Ill. and in Lee County I. T. opposite , and we would suggest to those coming up the particularly, and all others who are disposed, to look at , a beautifully located village about 20 miles below , consisting of about 500 inhabitants, a steam flour and lumber mill; one mile below is a section already surveyed on which the town of is to be built, and every facility is now offered to the brethren, for the immediate erection of houses, the location being very desirable at the lowest point of the Desmoine Rapids.
As we have been called upon to act as agents for the church, it may be expected that some one or more of our Quorum may be [p. 28]
found at , , and , ready to render every assistance in our power towards the location of emigrants; and that we shall occasionally visit the other places of gathering as necessity requires.
We recommend to the brethren in England &c. to emigrate in the fall or Winter; by so doing they will likely to spare themselves much affliction in being becoming accustomed to this climate.
Further communications may be expected from the Twelve in the next and succeeding papers. . . , , . .
Augt. 26th. 1841. N. B. ! ! ! The Elders will please direct their letters to Mr. , , Hancock Co. Ill and no one need expect letters to be taken from the office which are not first paid.
<1841 Aug 27> The following synopsis of his life is from the pen of his .
<P 1223> was born October 1. 1811 in great Driffield Yorkshire— England was educated at Dunnington in the same County. He united with the Methodists at an early age and preached what he believed to be the Gospel in connection with that sect for a number of years. Emigrated to in 1834. Embraced the Gospel there; being baptized and confirmed by Elder in May 1836, was ordained an Elder by <Elder> at a Conference held in July 22d. 1836, removed to in May 1837, where he married June 4th. 1837, and being appointed to take a mission to he returned in the same month and commenced preaching in Churchville and the villages adjacent, baptized a considerable number, continued his labors there until he was called upon to remove to he arrived at in March and started from thence in Company with and family, arrived in June 3d. where his daughter Mary Jane was born on the 14th. of June.
He remained there until Nov when he with many of the Brethren had to flee into the Wilderness to escape the fury of the Mob who swore they would kill every man who had been engaged in the crooked river battle, he stood near to brother [p. 29]
when he fell. He with the rest of the Brethren suffered much from exposure and lack of food. He arrived at I believe in December where he engaged as Clerk in the Court house and remained there until the liberation of Joseph and from prison when the Saints settled in he removed there and was engaged as scribe to brother Joseph, he was also church clerk. When the Nauvoo legion was formed he received the office of Col and also aid-de-camp. In May 1841, he became associated with in the Editing of the Times & Seasons, On the 16th. of August he was seized with the same disease of which had died on the 7th., the attachment between them was so strong it seemed as tho’ they could not long be separated he died on the 27th. leaving one child, was interred on in the burying ground on the 29th. By his special request no military procession was formed at his Funeral.
<1841 Sepr. 25>
An Extract from s Journal
Septr. 25th 1841. We passed a very rough night on Lake Michigan <p 1226> on our way to on board of the Steamer chesepeak; the Lake was also very rough this morning nearly all were sea sick. We left the Manitou Island lake Michigan at 4 O’Clock P. M. on the <Steamer> Chesapeake which contained 300 Passengers six of whom were members of the church, a large quantity of freight and coal 80 cords of wood 8 mules, Pigs, chickens, Geese, Ducks &c. we continued our journey towards without any interruption until half past 11 O’Clock at night when we were overtaken by a tremenduous storm of wind and rain it blew a hurricane and the Lake became as rough as it could be by the force of wind and such a scene as quickly followed I never before witnessed in my travels either by land or sea. The Captain officers, hands, and most of the passengers expected to go to the bottom of the Lake to have judged from outward appearances I should think there were twenty chances of being lost to one of being saved. yet I did not once expect to be lost for I believed the Lord would save me and my wife and child who were with me from a watery grave by some means. We were some 40 miles. from land when the gale struck us and I was awoke from a sound sleep by the cry “we are all lost” the first thought [p. 30]
that entered my mind was no <we> shall not be lost. I immediately leaped out of my berth and went on to the upper deck I saw we were in imminent danger of being wrecked the bow of the boat was heavily laden and frequently engulphed by the heavy waves that washed over her there were judged to be 50 tons of water at a time upon her bow, at one time her bow ran under water and some thought she would never rise; the water set the mules and all the live stock afloat washed away the partition and the mules, pigs, chickens ducks and geese were all hurled in one mass down into the steerage cabin mixed pall mall with 60 Irish passengers, men women and children at that moment the roaring of the Wind the rush of the waters, the peals of thunder, the flash of Lightning, the braying of Asses, the squeeling of Pigs, the quacking of Ducks Geese and chickens, the praying, swearing and screaming of men women and children created a compound sound which rent the air and sent a gloomy thrill through the heart. We immediately went to work & helped all the passengers out of the water and from among the beasts upon the deck so their lives were preserved while all the fowls, pigs, and part of the mules were drowned or killed, many tons of water rushed through the boat until the water stood nearly to the boilers it drove the firemen from their places about this time when the boat was laboring against wind and tide, one of the wheel chains broke and the boat rolled over on to one side I again heard the cry that all was lost but about 30 of us caught hold of the two detached pieces of chain and held them together until the Engineer mended them with wire it took three strong men to manage the wheel while the boat lay upon her side it washed away a part of the State rooms orders were given to clear the boat of everything moveable all the wood was fastened with Stanchions, on the side that was down the stanchions were knocked out by the passengers and 40 cords of wood tumbled into the sea at one serge, this caused the boat to right up and we expected every moment our state room would be washed away. I left it 3 times with my wife and child and stepped upon the main deck expecting to see it washed away and to add to the horror of the scene we were wrapped in darkness as all the lanterns were dashed to pieces [p. 31]
the men at the wheel labored hard for five hours to turn the boat round before they accomplished it, so that they could run before the storm. At length day light appeared and with it a cessation of the storm in a measure, we returned to Manitou Island at 4 o’Clock being 24 hours out mostly in the storm.
<1842 15 July>
The Government of God. Times & Seasons Vol 3 No. 18 Editorial
<page 1356> “The government of the Almighty, has always been very dissimilar to the government of men; whether we refer to his religious government, or to the government of nations. The government of God has always tended to promote peace, unity, harmony, strength and happiness; while that of man has been productive of confusion, disorder, weakness and misery. The greatest acts of the mighty men have been to depopulate nations, and to overthrow kingdoms; and whilst they have exalted themselves and become glorious, it has been at the expence of the lives of the innocent— the blood of the oppressed— the moans of the widow and the tears of the orphan. Egypt, Babylon, Greece, Persia, Carthage, Rome— each were raised to dignity amid the clash of arms, and the din of war; and whilst their triumphant leaders led forth their victorious armies to glory and victory, their ears were saluted with the groans of the dying, and the misery and distress of the human family;— before them the earth was a paradise, and behind them a desolate wilderness; their kingdoms were founded in carnage and bloodshed, and sustained by oppression, tyranny and despotism. The designs of God, on the other hand have been to promote the universal good, of the universal world;— to establish peace and good will among men;— to promote the principles of eternal truth; to bring about a state of things that shall unite man to his fellow man— cause the world to “beat their swords into plough shares, and their spears into pruning hooks”— make the nations of the earth dwell in peace; and to bring about the Millenial Glory— when “the earth shall yield its increase, resume its paradisean glory and become as the garden of the Lord.”
The great and wise of ancient days have failed in all their attempts to promote eternal power, peace and happiness. Their nations have crumbled to pieces; their thrones have been cast down in their turn; and their cities, and their mightiest works of art, have been annihilated; or their dilapidated towers; or time [p. 32]
worn monuments have left us but feeble traits of their former magnificence, and ancient grandeur. They proclaim as with the a voice of thunder, those imperishable truths— that man’s strength is weakness, his wisdom is folly, his glory is his shame.
Monarchical, aristocratical and republican forms of government, of their various kinds and grades, have in their turn been raised to dignity and prostrated in the dust. The plans of the greatest politicians, the wisest Senators, and most profound statesmen have been exploded; and the proceedings of the greatest chieftains, the bravest generals, and the wisest kings have fallen to the ground. Nation has succeeded nation, and we have inherited nothing but their folly. History records their puerile plans, their short lived glory, their feeble intellect. and their ignoble deeds.
Have we increased in knowledge or intelligence? where is there a man that can step forth and alter the destiny of nations and promote the happiness of the World? Or where is there a kingdom or nation, that can promote the universal happiness of its own subjects or even their general well being? Our nation, which possesses greater resources than any other, is rent from center to circumference, with party strife, political intrigue, and sectional interest our counsellors are panic struck, our legislators are astonished, & our senators are confounded, our merchants are paralized our tradesmen are disheartened, our Mechanics out of employ, our farmers distressed, and our poor crying for bread. Our banks are broken, our credit ruined, and our states overwhelmed in debt;— yet we are and have been in peace.— What is the matter? Are we alone in this thing? Verily. No. With all our evils we are better situated than any other nation. Let Egypt Turkey, Spain, France, Italy, Portugal, Germany, England, China, or any other nation speak, and tell the tale of their trouble— their perplexity, and distress, and we should find that their cup was full, and that they were preparing to drink the dregs of sorrow. England that boasts of her literature, her science, commerce &c has her hands reeking with the blood of the innocent, abroad: and she is saluted with the cries of the oppressed at home.— Chartism, O’Connelism, and Radicalism are knawing her vitals at home; and Ireland, Scotland, , and the East are threatening her destruction abroad. France is rent to the core— intrigue, treachery, and treason lurk in the dark: and murder, and assassination [p. 33]
stalk forth at noon day. Turkey, once the glory of European nations, has been shorn of her strength— has dwindled into her dotage, and has been obliged to ask her allies to propose to her tributary terms of peace: and Russia, and Egypt are each of them opening their jaws to devour her. Spain has been the theatre of bloodshed, of misery and woe for years past. Syria is now convulsed with war and bloodshed. The great and powerful empire of China, which has for centuries resisted the attacks of barbarians; has become tributary to a foreign foe, her batteries thrown down; many of her cities destroyed, and her villages deserted. We might mention the Eastern rajahs; the miseries and oppressions of the Irish; the convulsed state of Central America; the situation of Texas and Mexico; the state of Greece, Switzerland, and Poland— nay, the world itself presents one great theatre of misery woe and “distress of nations with perplexity.” All, all speak with a voice of thunder, that man is not able to govern himself— to legislate for himself— to protect himself— to promote his own good, nor the good of the World.
It has been the design of Jehovah, from the commencement of the World, and is his purpose now, to regulate the affairs of the World in his own time; to stand as head of the universe and take the reins of government into his own hand. When that is done judgement will be administered in righteousness: anarchy and confusion will be destroyed, and “nations will learn war no more.” It is for want of this great governing principle that all this confusion has existed: for it is not in man that walketh to direct his steps;” this we have fully shewn.
If there was anything great or good in the World it came from God. The construction of the first vessel was given to Noah, by revelation. The design of the ark was given by God, “a pattern of heavenly things.” The learning of the Egyptians, and their knowlidge of astronomy was no doubt taught them by Abraham and Joseph, as their records testify, who received it from the Lord. The art of working in brass, silver, Gold, and precious stones, was taught by Revelation, in the Wilderness. The architectural designs of the temple at Jerusalem, together with its ornament and beauty was given of God. Wisdom to govern the house of Israel was given to Solomon, and to the judges of Israel: and if he had always been their king, & they subject to his mandate [p. 34]
and obedient to his laws, they would still have been a great and mighty people; the rulers of the universe— and the wonder of the world. If Nebuchadnezzar, or Darius or Cyrus or any other king possessed knowledge or power it was from the same source as the Scriptures abundantly testify. If then God puts up one, and sets down another, at his pleasure— and made instruments of kings unknown to themselves, to fulfil his prophesies, how much more was he able, if man would have been subject to his mandate to regulate the affairs of this world, and promote peace and happiness among the human family.
The Lord has at various times commenced this kind of government, and tendered his services to the human family. He selected Enoch, whom he directed and gave his law unto, and to the people who were with him; and when the world in general would not obey the commands of God, after walking with God, he translated Enoch and his church, and the priesthood or government of heaven, was taken away.
Abraham was guided in all his family affairs by the Lord; <was conversed with by Angels and by the Lord;> was told where to go, and when to stop; and prospered exceedingly in all that he put his hand unto: it was because he and his family obeyed the counsel of the Lord.— When Egypt was under the superintendence of Joseph it prospered, because he was taught of God; when they oppressed the Israelites destruction came upon them. When the children of Israel were chosen with Moses at their head, they were to be a peculiar people, among whom God should place his name; their motto was “The Lord is our law giver; the Lord is our judge; the Lord is our king, and he shall reign over us.” While in this state they might truly say, “happy is that people whose God is the Lord.” Their government was a theocracy; they had God to make their Laws, and men chosen by him to administer them: he was their God, and they were his people. Moses received the word of the Lord from God himself; he was the mouth of God to Aaron, and Aaron taught the people in both civil and eclessiastical affairs; they were both one; there was no distinction; so will it be when the purposes of God shall be accomplished; when “the Lord shall be king over the whole earth” and “Jerusalem his throne” [p. 35]
“The Law shall go forth from Zion, and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem.”
This is the only thing that can bring about the restitution of all things, spoken of by all the holy prophets since the world was”— “The dispensation of the fulness of times, when God shall gather together all things in one” other attempts to promote universal peace and happiness in the human family have proven abortive; every effort has failed; every plan and design has fallen to the ground; it needs the wisdom of God the intelligence of God, and the power of God to accomplish this. The World has had a fair trial for six thousand years, the Lord will try the seventh thousand himself; “he, whose right it is will possess the kingdom, and reign until he has put all things under his feet;” iniquity will hide its hoary head. Satan will be bound, and the works of darkness destroyed; righteousness will be put to the line, and judgment to the plummet, and “he that fears the Lord will alone be exalted in that day—”. To bring about this state of things there must of necessity be great confusion among the nations of the earth: “distress of nations with perplexity.”— Am I asked what is the cause of the present distress? I would answer; “Shall there be evil in a city and the Lord hath not done it.” The earth is groaning under corruption, oppression, tyranny, & bloodshed; and God is coming out of his hiding place, as he said that he would do to vex the nations of the earth. Daniel in his vision, saw convulsion upon convulsion; he “saw till thrones were cast down, and the ancient of days did sit; and one was brought before him like unto the son of man; and all nations, kindreds, tongues, and people, did serve and obey him.” It is for us to be righteous that we may be wise and understand, for “none of the wicked shall understand; but the wise shall understand, and they that turn many to righteousness, shall shine as the stars for ever and ever.” As a church and a people it behoves us to be wise, and to seek to know the will of God, and then be willing to do it; for “blessed is he that heareth the word of the Lord and keepeth it” says the scriptures. “Watch and pray always,” says our Saviour, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape the things that are coming on the earth, and to stand before the son of man.” If Enock [p. 36]
Abraham, Moses, the children of Israel, and all God’s people were saved by keeping the commandments of God, we, if saved at all, shall be saved upon the same principle. As God governed Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, as families, and the children of Israel as a nation, so we, as a church, must be under his guidance if we are prospered, preserved, and sustained. Our only confidence can be in God; our only wisdom obtained from him; and he alone must be our protector and safeguard, spiritually. & temporally, or we fall.
We have been chastened by the hand of God heretofore for not obeying his commands, although we never violated any human law, or transgressed any human precept, yet we have treated lightly his commands, and departed from his ordinances, and the Lord has chastened us sore, and we have felt his arm, and kissed the rod; let us be wise in time to come, and ever remember that “to obey is better than sacrifice; and to hearken than the fat of rams”. The Lord has told us to build the , and the , and that command is as binding upon us as any other: and that man who engages not in these things is as much a transgressor as though he broke any other command— he is not a doer of God’s will, nor a fulfiller of his laws.
In regard to the building up of Zion it has to be done by the Council of Jehovah: by the Revelations of heaven, and we should feel to say “if the Lord go not with us, carry us not up hence.” We would say to the Saints that come here we have laid the foundation for the gathering of Gods people to this place, and expect that when the Saints do come they will be under the Council of those that God has appointed. The Twelve are set apart to counsel the Saints pertaining to this matter: and we expect that those who come here will send before them their wise men according to revelation; or if not practicable be subject to the Counsel that God has given or they cannot receive an inheritance among the Saints, or be considered as God’s people, and they will be dealt with as transgressors of the laws of God; we are trying here to gird up our loins, and purge from our midst the workers of iniquity; and we hope that when our brethren [p. 37]
arrive from abroad, they will assist us to roll forth this good work, and to accomplish this great design; that Zion may be built up in righteousness; and all nations flock to her standard; “that as God’s people, under his direction, and obedient to his law, we may grow up in righteousness, and truth: that when his purposes shall be accomplished we may receive an inheritance among those that are sanctified,
(From Page 27)
as an instrument to lead the church, why not let him lead it through? Why stand in the way when he is appointed to do a thing? Who knows the mind of God? Does he not reveal things differently from what we expect? He remarked that he was continually rising, although he had every thing bearing him down, standing in his way, and opposing; notwithstanding all this. opposition he always comes out right in the end.
Respecting females administering for the healing of the sick he further remarked—, there could be no devil in it, if God gave his sanction by healing; that there could be no more sin in any female laying hands on and praying for the sick, than in wetting the face with water; it is no sin for any body to administer that has faith, or if the sick have faith to be be healed by their administration.
He reproved those that were disposed to find fault with the management of the concerns of the church, saying God had called him to lead the church and he would lead it right: those that undertake to interfere will be ashamed when their own folly is made manifest, that he calculates to organize the church in its proper order as soon as the is completed.
President Smith continued by speaking of the difficulties he had to surmount ever since the commencement of the work, in consequence of aspiring men. “Great Big Elders” as he called them, who had caused him much trouble; to whom he had taught the things of the kingdom in private Councils. They would then go forth into the World and proclaim the things he had taught them, as their own revelations; said the same aspiring Disposition will be in this society, and must be guarded against— that every person should stand, and act in the [p. 38] place appointed, and thus sanctify the Society and get it pure He said he had been trampled under foot by aspiring Elders for all were infected with that Spirit; for instance and others had been aspiring; they could not be exalted, but must run away as though the care and authority of the church were vested with them. He said he had a subtle devil to deal with, and could only curb him by being humble. As he had this opportunity, he was going to instruct the ladies of this Society and point out the way for them to conduct themselves that they might act according to the will of God that he did not know that he should have many opportunities of teaching them, as they were going to be left to themselves; they would not long have him to instruct them, that the church would not have his instructions long, and the world would not be troubled with him a great while, and would not have his teachings. He spoke of delivering the keys of the Priesthood to the church, and said that the faithful members of the Relief Society should receive them in connection with their husbands that the Saints whose integrity has been tried and proved faithful might know how to ask the Lord and receive an answer; for according to his [blank] prayers God had appointed him elsewhere. He exhorted the sisters always to concentrate their faith and prayers for, and place confidence in their husbands, whom God has appointed for them to honor and in those faithful men whom God has placed at the head of the church to lead his people; that we should arm and sustain them with our prayers; for the keys of the kingdom are about to be given to them that they may be able to detect every thing false; as well as to all the Elders who shall prove their integrity in due season. He said if one member becomes corrupt, and you know it, you must immediately put it away. or it will either injure or destroy the whole body. The sympathies of the heads of the church have induced them to bear a long time with those who were corrupt until they are obliged to cut them off, lest all become contaminated; you must put down iniquity, and by your good example, stimulate the elders to good works; if you do right there is no danger of your going too fast. He said he did not care how fast we run in the path of virtue, resist evil and there is no danger; God men and Angels will not condemn those that resist every thing that is evil: and Devils cannot as well [p. 39] might the Devil seek to dethrone Jehovah, as overthrow an innocent soul that resists every thing which is evil.
This is a charitable Society & according to your natures; it is natural for females to have feelings of charity and benevolence you are now placed in a situation in which you can act according to those sympathies which God has planted in your bosoms. If you live up to these principles how great and glorious will be your reward in the celestial kingdom!! If you live up to your privileges the angels cannot be restrained from being your associates. Females, if they are pure and innocent can come into the presence of God; for what is more pleasing to God than innocence; you must be innocent or you cannot come up before God; if we would come before God we must keep ourselves pure as he is pure. The Devil has great power to deceive; he will so transform things as to make one gape at those who are doing the will of God. You need not be teazing your husbands because of their deeds, but let the weight of your innocence kindness and affections be felt, which is more mighty than a mill stone hung about the neck; not war not jangle, not contradiction, or dispute but meekness, love, purity, these are the things that should magnify you in the eyes of all good men. Achan must be brought to light, iniquity must be purged out from the midst of the Saints, then the veil will be rent and the blessings of heaven will flow down, they will roll down like the . If this Society listen to the Council of the almighty thro’ the heads of the church they shall have power to command queens in their midst. I now deliver it as a prophecy if the inhabitants of this , with the people of the surrounding Country will turn unto the Lord with all their hearts ten years will not roll round before the Kings & Queens of the earth will come unto Zion and pay their respects to the leaders of this people they shall come with their millions, and shall contribute of their abundance for the relief of the poor and the building up and beautifying of Zion;
After this instruction you will be responsible for your own sins; it is a desirable honor that you should so walk before our Heavenly Father as to save yourselves we are all responsible to God for the manner we improve the light and wisdom given by our Lord to enable us to save ourselves. President Smith continued reading from the above mentioned chapter and to [p. 40] give instructions respecting the order of God as established in the church saying every one should aspire only to magnify his own office and calling. He then commenced reading the 13th. Chapter “Though I speak with the tongues of Men and of Angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.” and said dont be limited in your views with regard to your neighbors virtues, but beware of self righteousness and be limited in the estimate of your own virtues, and not think yourselves more righteous than others, you must enlarge your souls towards each other, if you would do like Jesus and carry your fellow creatures to Abraham’s bosom. He said he had manifested long suffering forbearance and patience towards the church and also to his enemies. and we must bear with each others failings as an indulgent parent bears with the foibles of his children. President Smith then read the 2nd. verse “Though I have the gift of prophecy and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains and have not charity I am nothing.” He then said though a man should become mighty, do great things, overturn mountains perform mighty works and should then turn from his high station to do evil to eat and drink with the drunken, all his former deeds would not save him, but he would go to destruction! As you increase in innocence and virtue, as you increase in goodness, let your hearts expand, let them be enlarged towards others; you must be long suffering, & bear with the faults and errors of mankind. How precious are the Souls of men! The female part of the Community are apt to be contracted in their views. You must not be contracted but you must be liberal in your feelings Let this Society teach women how to behave towards their husbands to treat them with mildness and affection. When a man is borne down with trouble, when he is perplexed with care and difficulty if he can meet a smile instead of an argument or a murmur if he can meet with mildness, it will calm down his soul and soothe his feelings; when the mind is going to despair it needs a solace of affection and kindness you will receive instruction through the order of the Priesthood [p. 41] which God has established, through the medium of those appointed to lead guide and direct the affairs of the church in this last Dispensation and I now turn the key in your behalf in the name of the Lord, and this society shall rejoice and knowledge and intelligence shall flow down from this time henceforth; this is the beginning of better days to the poor and needy, who shall be made to rejoice and pour forth blessings on your heads.
When you go home never give a cross or unkind word to your husbands, but let kindness, charity, and love crown your works henceforward; don’t envy <the finery & fleeting show of> sinners for they are in a miserable situation, but as far as you can have mercy on them for in a short time God will destroy them. if they will not repent and turn unto him. Let your labors be mostly confined to those around you in the circle of your own acquaintance, as far as knowledge is concerned, it may extend to all the world; but your administrations should be confined to the circle of your immediate acquaintance, and more especially to the Members of the relief Society. Those ordained to preside over and lead you are authorized to appoint the different officers as the the circumstances shall require.
If any have a matter to reveal let it be in your own tongue; do not indulge too much in the excercise of the gifts of tongues, or the Devil will take advantage of the innocent and unwary, you may speak in tongues for your own comfort, but I lay this down for a rule that if anything is taught by the gift of tongues it is not to be received for doctrine.
Prest. Smith then gave instruction respecting the propriety of females administering to the sick by the prayer of faith, the laying on of hands or the anointing with oil and said it was according to revelation that the sick should be nursed with herbs and mild food, and not by the hand of an enemy: who are better qualified to administer, than our faithful and zealous sisters whose hearts are full of faith tenderness sympathy and compassion? No one. said he was never placed in similar circumstances before and never had given the same instruction and closed his instructions by expressing his heartfelt satisfaction in improving [p. 42] this opportunity.
The Spirit of the Lord was poured out in a very powerful manner, never to be forgotten by those present on this interesting occasion.”
<1842 April 9th.> The following brief Extract is from ’s Journal
<page 1316> April 9th. 1842. The Saints in assembled at the house of at an early hour in the morning to pay their last respect to the body of Ephraim Marks, son of President who died on the evening of the 7th.. A large procession formed and walked to the where a numerous congregation had assembled. President Joseph Smith spoke upon the occasion with much feeling and interest. Among his remarks he said: “It is a very solemn and awful time.— I never felt more solemn: it calls to mind the death of my oldest brother who died in , and my youngest brother who died in . It has been hard for me to live on earth, and see these young men upon whom we have leaned for support and comfort taken from us in the midst of their youth. Yes! it has been hard to be reconciled to these things. I have sometimes thought that I should have felt more reconciled to have been called away myself if it had been the will of God; yet I know we ought to be still and know it is of God, and be reconciled to his will, all is right It will be but a short time before we shall all in like manner be called; it may be the case with me as well as you. Some have supposed that Brother Joseph could not die; but this is a mistake it is true there have been times when I have had the promise of my life to accomplish such and such things; but having now accomplished those things, I have not at present any lease of my life; I am as liable to die as other men.
I can say in my heart that I have not done any thing against Ephraim Marks that I am sorry for, and I would ask any of his companions if they have done any thing against him that they are sorry for, or that they would not like to meet and answer for at the bar of God; if so, let it prove as a warning to all to deal justly before God and with all mankind; then we shall be clear in the day of Judgement.
When we lose a near and dear friend upon whom we [p. 43]
have set our hearts it should be a caution unto us not to set our affections too firmly upon others, knowing that they may in like manner be taken from us. Our affections should be placed upon God, and his work more intensely than upon our fellow beings.
<1841 Novr. 8> The baptismal Font is situated in the centre of the basement room under the main hall of the , it is constructed of pine timber and put together of staves tongued and grooved, oval shaped <page 1244> 16 feet long, east and West and 12 feet wide; 7 feet High from the foundation, the Basin 4 feet deep, the moulding of the cap and base are formed of beautiful carved work in antique style. The sides are finished with pannel work. a flight of Stairs on the North and South sides leading up and down into the bason Guarded by side railing. The font stands upon 12 oxen 4 on each side, and 2 at each end, their heads shoulders and fore legs projecting out from under the font they are carved out of pine plank, glued together and copied after the most beautiful five year old steer that could be found in the country and they are an excellent striking likeness of the original, the Horns, were Geometrically formed after the most perfect horns that could be procured, the oxen and ornamental mouldings of the Font were carved by Elder from the city of which occupied eight months of time. The font was enclosed by a temporary frame building sided up with split oak clapboards with a roof of the same material, and was so low that the timbers of the first storey were laid above it, the water was supplied from a well 30 feet deep in the east end of the basement.
This font was built for the Baptisms for the dead until the should be finished when a more durable one will supply its place.
<Nov 20> Seven of the Twelve Apostles met in Council at the house of <page 1250> on the subject of the Times and Seasons; they not being satisfied with the manner Gustavis [Gustavus] Hills had conducted the editorial department since the death of .
<21> Sunday 21; My brother and Elder preached.
The Twelve met in Council at ’s; and at 4 o’clock repaired <page 1250> to the Baptismal font in the basement of the . Elders , and , baptized about 40 persons; for the dead. [p. 44] <1841 Nov 21.> Elders , , and confirming These were the first baptisms for the dead in the font.
<30> Attended a Council of the Twelve Apostles at President ’s. Present <page 1256> , , , , , , & .
It was voted that be solicited to give up the department of printing the Times and Seasons to Elder .
Voted that if does not comply with this solicitation be instructed to procure a press and type, and publish a paper for the Church.
Moved by , and seconded by that and present these resolutions to .
<Dec 18.> Also presented the following
“Resolved by the City Council of <page 1265> the City of , that the high minded and honorable editor of the New York Weekly Herald, Esq is deserving of the lasting gratitude of this community for his very liberal and unprejudiced course towards us as a people, in giving us a fair hearing in his paper; thus enabling us to reach the ears of a portion of the community, who, otherwise would ever have remained ignorant of our principles and practices.
Resolved that we recommend our fellow citizens to subscribe for the New York Weekly Herald; and thus be found patronizing true merit, industry and enterprise.”
<Meeting at my house in the evening:>
<19> The subjoined minutes are from Elder ’s journal
<page 1265> “Elder preached at the house of President Joseph Smith—— on the parable in the 18th Chapter of Jeremiah of the Clay in the hands of the potter; that when it marred in the hands of the potter, it was cut off the wheel and then thrown back again into the mill to go into the next batch, and was a vessel of dishonor, but all clay that formed well in the hands of the potter, and was pliable was a vessel of honor, and thus it was with the human family, and ever will be; all that are pliable in the hands of God and are obedient to his commands are vessels of honor and God will receive them.
President Joseph arose and said has given you a true explanation of the parable, and then read the parable of the vine and its branches, and explained it, and said, if we kept the commandments of God we should bring forth fruit and be the friends of God, and know what our Lord did. ‘Some people say I am a fallen prophet because I do not bring forth more of the word of the Lord. Why do I not do it? Are we able to receive it? No! not one in this room’ He then chastened the [p. 45]
<1841 Dec 19> congregation for their wickedness and unbelief, for whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son and daughter whom he receiveth; and if we do not receive chastisements then are we bastards and not sons.
On the subject of revelation he said a man would command his son to dig potatoes and saddle his horse, but before he had done either he would tell him to do something else; this is all considered right, but as soon as the Lord gives a commandment and revokes that decree and commands something else, then the prophet is considered fallen &c Because we will not receive chastisement at the hand of the prophet and apostles, the Lord chastiseth us with sickness and death. Let not any man publish his own righteousness, for others can see that for him, sooner let him confess his sins, and then he will be forgiven, and he will bring forth more fruit. When a corrupt man is chastized he gets angry and will not endure it. The reason we do not have the secrets of the Lord revealed unto us, is because we do not keep them, but reveal them; we do not keep our own secrets, but reveal our difficulties to the world, even to our enemies, then how would we keep the secrets of the Lord? ‘I can keep a secret till Doomsday’. What greater love hath any man than that he lay down his life for his friend, then why not fight for our friend until we die.
Elder said. One thing lay with weight on his mind, that is, that we should be prepared to keep each commandment as it came from the Lord by the mouth of the prophet; and as the Lord had commanded us to build a , we should do it speedily.
<" 22> Elder of stated to me that he <Note A. Addenda Page 1. C.1> had settled all his debts, made all necessary provisions for his family and desired to know the will of God concerning him. “Verily thus saith the Lord unto my servants the Twelve let them appoint unto my servant a mission to preach my gospel unto the children of men as it shall be manifested unto them by my Holy Spirit. Amen
<" 24> And I said “in the name of the Lord we will prosper if we will <Page 1266> go forward in this thing.”
Elder returned from a short mission to , Iowa, where he baptized fourteen, bringing $20 as a donation to the building of the from James <Samuel> Moore. [p. 46]
<1841 Dec 21>
“ Dec 21st 1841
<Page 1266> Mr , Beloved Brother,— Yours of the 27th of October came to hand at a late date, but I am now able to say to you that the power of Attorney is executed and sent up to the Clerk’s Office for the Seal of State, and will be forwarded direct from them; it is now on the way most probably.
Your letter did not arrive till after Mr Potter returned with the goods, which I received in safety, and Bro Potter has started on a mission to the inhabitants of Jamaica, one of the west India isles.
I will accept the goods as you propose on your debt, so far as it goes, and answer the remainder on the payments which you mention as they become due.
I have purchased 90 acres of timber land in the vicinity of , a little up the river, and have made proposals to but as yet, am waiting for him to receive answers from his correspondent in the East. I shall be able to purchase all the wood land you will want in a little time.
As it respects Steam engines and mills, my opinion is we cannot have too many of them. This place has suffered exceedingly for <from the want of> such mills in our midst and neither one nor two can do the business of this place another season. We have no good grain or board mill in this place and most of our flour and lumber has to be brought 20 miles which subjects us to great inconvenience.
The is rapidly advancing. Many new buildings have been erected since you left us, and many more would have arisen if brick and lumber could have been obtained. There is scarce any limits which can be imagined to the mills and machinery, and manufacturing of all kinds, which might be put into profitable operation in this ; and even if others should raise a mill before you get here, it need be no discouragement either to you or Bro Buckwalter for it will be difficult for the mills to keep pace with the growth of the place, and you will do well to bring the engine. If you can persuade any of the brethren who are manufacturers of woollens or cottons to come and establish their business, do so.
I have not ascertained definitely as yet how far the goods will go towards liquidating ’s note, or finishing your house; but this I can say, I will make the most of it, and benefit you every possible way.
Your message is delivered to , and she will be glad [p. 47]
<1841 Dec 21> to have returns on her letter of attorney as speedily as circumstances will permit, according to the understanding thereof.
I am happy to hear of your welfare and the health of your family and also to inform you that the health of has much improved since last summer, and considering the very mild state of the weather most of the time it is excellent.
Myself and family are in health, and our enemies are at peace with us, as much as can be expected in this generation. Should any thing new occur which may be for our advantage you will please write and I will do the same.
I remain, Yours in the gospel of Christ
Joseph Smith
P.S. You will endeavor to have the money on your letter of Attorney from , ready to furnish a fresh supply of goods early in the spring
J. S.
<Nov 13.>
“Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of <Page 1244.> That all vagrants, Idle or disorderly persons; persons found drunk in or about the Streets; all suspicious persons; persons who have no fixed place of residence, or visible means of support, or cannot give a good account of themselves; persons guilty of profane or indecent language, or behaviour; persons guilty of using indecent, impertinent, or unbecoming language towards any city officer when in the discharge of his duty or of menacing, threatening or otherwise obstructing said officer, shall on conviction thereof before the Mayor or Municipal Court, be required to enter into security for good behaviour for a reasonable time, and indemnify the corporation against any charge, and in case of refusal or inability to give security they shall be confined to labor for a time not exceeding ninety days, or be fined in any sum not exceeding five hundred dollars, or be imprisoned not exceeding six months; or all; at the discretion of said Mayor or Court.”
<Dec 31> The following list shows some of the Books, pamphlets, letters &c <page 1267> published for and against the Latter Day Saints in 1841.
A proclamation to the Saints scattered abroad Jan. 15, by Joseph Smith, , .
Twenty-three numbers of the Times and Seasons were published in .
Twelve Numbers of the Millennial Star were published in England by .
First edition of the Book of Mormon published in England, 21st. Jany [p. 48] <1841 Dec 31.> by Elders and
A third edition of the voice of warning was published in England, by
A letter to Queen Victoria of England, touching the signs of the times, and the political destiny of the world; in pamphlet form. By , England.
Five hundred copies of an address to the Hebrews in the Dutch language; by , Published in Rotterdam, Holland; being the first pamphlet pertaining to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, written in a foreign language. July.
A pamphlet containing 116 pages 8 vo. by , containing a synopsis of the faith of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints; Addressed to the German nation in their own language
A small selection of Hymns, by Christopher Merkley.
Evidences in proof of the Book of Mormon; a work of 256 pages 32 mo. Published at Batavia N. Y.; by Charles Thompson.
A lengthy address to the Citizens of , Mass. and vicinity by and . October.
Gospel Reflector, a monthly periodical by Published in .
Proclamation and warning to the inhabitants of by Charles Thompson
The Editor of the Times and Seasons noticed the following. From the “Upper Mississippian” A series of letters, entitled “— Mormon Religion &c” The writer no doubt intended to give a fair statement; and in the main did, but respecting our faith (on some points) the Book of Mormon &c., he is widely from the mark
An article was published in the ‘North Staffordshire Mercury’ shewing the difference between the Baptists and Latter Day Saints. Hanley Feb. 16. signed a Baptist. Replied to by ; who showed the difference between the Baptists and Former Day Saints.
A severe article against the Latter Day Saints which filled several columns of fine print was published in the ‘Edinburgh Intelligencer’ of April 7th. taken from the Athenaum on the subject of the Book of Mormon and the Latter Day Saints. Replied to by . May.
Mr. J. B. Rolle of Edinburgh, Scotland published a pamphlet entitled “Mormonism Exposed” Replied to by . July 10.
The Preston Chronicle of April 24th published a long article against the Latter Day Saints, which was replied to by [p. 49] <1841 Dec 31> in the Millenial Star, July 10.
A bitter article was published in the ‘Cheltenham Free Press” of Aug 23rd headed “Latter Day Saints Swindle” replied to by , in the “Star[”] of October.
A few plain facts shewing the folly wickedness, and imposition of the Rev. Timothy R Matthews. By Bedford, England.
The , Mo., Atlas published a favorable article entitled ‘The Latter Day Saints”
The “Juliet Courier” published a favorable account of the late trial of Joseph Smith. Monmouth June.
The Saturday Courier and the Public Ledger on July 10. published several articles anathematizing the Latter Day Saints.
A slanderous pamphlet entitled “Mormonism Unmasked.” By A. Gardner, of Rochdale, England.
‘The Mormons-arrest of Joe Smith” was the heading of an article published in the Herald of Commerce and copied in many of the Eastern papers
The “Christian Messenger and Reformer” published an account of the Latter-day Saints. collected from the book of of , Ohio.
Editor of the Signal devoted his entire time to slander, lie against and misrepresent the Latter Day Saints
<1842 Jan 1> I again have the pleasure to report the location of the Twelve Apostles. <page 1268> , , , and are in . in , Iowa. in Quarantine at Trieste, Italy. in . in , in . , somewhere in the Eastern States.
<" 5>
“ January 5. 1842.
Mr , Beloved Brother,— I am happy that it is my privilege <Page 1268> to say to you that the large new building which I had commenced when you were here, is now completed, and the doors are opened this day for the sale of goods for the first time. The foundation of the building is somewhat spacious, (as you will doubtless recollect,) for a country . The principal part of the building below, which is ten feet high is devoted exclusively to shelves and drawers, except one door opening back into the space, on the left of which are the cellar and chamber stairs, and on the right the [p. 50]
<1842 Jan 5> counting room; from the space at the top of the chamber stairs, opens a door into the Large front room, of the same size with the one below;— the walls lined with counters, covered with reserve goods; in front of the stairs opens the door to my private office, or where I keep the sacred writings with a window to the south overlooking the river below, and the opposite shore for a great distance, which, together with the passage of boats in the season thereof, constitutes a peculiarly interesting situation in prospect and no less interesting from its retirement from the bustle and confusion of the neighborhood and city; and, altogether is a place the Lord is pleased to bless.
The painting of the has been executed by Edward Martin one of our English brethren, and the counters, drawers and pillars present a very respectable representation of oak, mahogany and marble for a backwoods establishment.
The Lord has blessed our exertions in a wonderful manner, and, although some individuals have succeeded in detaining goods to a considerable amount for the time being, yet we have been enabled to secure goods in the building sufficient to fill all the shelves as soon as they were completed, and have some in reserve, both in loft and cellar. Our assortment is tolerably good— very good, considering the different purchases made by different individuals, at different times, and under circumstances which controled their choice to some extent, but I rejoice that we have been enabled to do as well as we have, for the hearts of many of the poor brethren and sisters will be made glad, with those comforts which are now within their reach. The store has been filled to overflowing, and, I have stood behind the counter all day, dealing out goods as steady as any clerk you ever saw, to oblige those who were compelled to go without their usual Christmas and New Years dinners for the want of a little sugar, molasses, raisins, &c. &c. and to please myself also, for I love to wait upon the Saints, and be a servant to all, hoping that I may be exalted in the due time of the Lord.
With sentiments of high consideration I remain Your Bro in Christ—
Joseph Smith”
<Jan 20> — 1st Son of and Sarah H. Gee born Rome, Ashtabula Co <Page 1270> Ohio, August 13. 1815: was baptized at. Geauga County, Ohio Feb. 17th. 1833: married Mary Jane Smith in Feb 5. 1838, by whom he had two sons named Elias S. and George W. went to Missouri in 1838: was driven out by a mob in the spring of 1839: went [p. 51] <1842 Jan 20.> to and was ordained an Elder in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints at the first conference held at in October 1839: removed to Ambrosia, Lee County Iowa, where he was appointed Post Master and Deputy County Surveyor; he surveyed the city plats of and , under the direction of President Joseph Smith: was sent by the fall Conference in 1841 to . Penn. where he died Jan 20. 1842 while in the discharge of his duties having won the affections of all the Saints with whom he had become acquainted by his integrity and perseverance. His opportunity for schooling had been limited, but by his own exertion he attained to an excellent education, and collected quite a respectable library
<29>
“ Jan 29. 1842
To , Elders and . Beloved Brethren, <Page 1273> Soon after your departure a clergyman of the Church of England called upon my employer, to request that he might have an interview with me, as he had a wish to propound certain questions to me; upon his request being complied with, we retired to a private room, when he produced a long list of questions written down, opposite to which he wrote my answers. The rise of the church, priesthood, doctrines, offices, sacraments &c. were the principle queries he advanced. When he demurred to any of our principles I was proceeding to explain, but he cut my discourse short by saying he would not hold any controversy, his object being only to obtain information. After the disposal of his queries he wished to be informed where he could obtain the whole of the publications of the Latter Day Saints as he wished to be in possession of them; I informed him at 47 Oxford Street, and he promised to send for them. Soon after the visit of this reverend gentleman, I had reason to suspect that undermining operations were in progress against me, I therefore tendered my resignation to the directors, but they would not accept it, and very soon afterwards a public accountant was employed by them to investigate their accounts for several years back, and I was happy to be enabled to answer satisfactorily every question that was asked of me respecting them.
After this another minister sent a lengthy article extracted from an American paper, purporting to be the production of a Mr Anthony, with a request that I would “read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest” the same. I replied to the statements of Mr A. and after disposing of them paragraph for paragraph. I told him that I was obliged by his favoring me with it, inasmuch as it satisfied my mind, and was confirmatory [p. 52]
<1842 Jan 29> of the prediction of Isaiah being fulfilled, seeing that Mr A. admitted that “the words of the Book were delivered to the learned,” &c. I then proceeded to contrast the Church of England with the Churches established by the Apostles; but he has not acknowledged the receipt of my letter as yet.
The Clergy are building ten new churches in this town and neighborhood, and are employing additional curates to go round to the houses of their parishioners, to coerce or intimidate them into an attendance upon their services, in fulfilment of the words of Paul, “In the last days perilous times will come, &c. that they would have a form of godliness, but deny the power, and would creep into houses to lead captive silly women, &c.” See 2 Timothy, 1st ch. 1 to 8th verses. These curates make repeated visits, generally when the heads of families are from home, and take special care to enquire where the family are employed, and what place of worship they attend, &c. and leave tracts for the family to read.
One of the Rev Hugh Stowel’s curates has paid several visits to my house, but always in my absence, although he was requested to call when I was at home, and informed the time when he might meet with me.
The following discourse took place in our own neighborhood. Curate. What religion may you be my good woman? I am a church woman, sir. What church do you usually attend? I never attend any, sir.
After reprimanding the woman for pretending to be one of his flock, while she absented herself from the fold, he went to the house of a poor woman who had lately joined the saints. “I am a minister of the church of Jesus Christ in England, and have called to enquire what school you send your children to, and what religion you profess?,” The woman replied she was a “Latter Day Saint.” “Oh delusion! delusion!!” he rejoined, and began to rail against the saints; whereupon she handed him the bible, and requested him to read the place where she casually opened to, namely, the 3rd ch. of Micah, and to preach her a discourse from that part of the bible; but he retreated from before her, and has not troubled her since. The Lord Bishop of Chester, and the protestant Clergymen, have hired a person of the name of Brindley to go about lecturing against the Saints, and have commenced a monthly periodical in which the foul slanders heaped upon the Saints in and elsewhere are [p. 53]
<1842 Jan 29> retailed out to satisfy the malice of the enemies of truth. The Manchester Courier has had several articles against our society and principles, and the old Spaulding romance has been recusitated for the occasion. <The Rev. Chas. Burton Doctor of Laws, minister of “All Saints” has been several times to see me lately, and upon one occasion> invited me to his house where I went and discussed our principles for several hours, until he was glad to withdraw from the contest; I found him ignorant in a great measure of what the bible contains respecting the latter days. He admitted that the Saints would reign on earth.
The great work of the Lord is still progressing in spite of all the opposition of— lying priests and their auxiliaries of the newspaper press. I baptized Elizabeth Smith, who resided with us when you were in England, and she purposes coming out to along with us. There is very great distress among the operatives and the poor generally, and great excitement respecting the agitation of the repeal of the corn laws. Great fires have frequently occurred at the commencement of this year; a large carrier’s warehouse was consumed by fire, about from £200,000. to £300,000, ($1.000,000 to $1,500,000) worth of cotton and grain &c. destroyed. It was the Union Co’s carrying warehouse. Picadilly. There is great depression in almost every branch of manufacture, and great perplexity, and I am daily more and more convinced that the time is not far distant when Babylon the great will be fallen, and become a desolation and the kings and the merchants of the earth will weep and mourn over her and she will be cast down even as a great millstone cast into the sea, and will be found no more at all.
I opened a place for preaching at Blakesly, about six weeks ago, and there were three baptized and confirmed there last week. I was with Elder John Brotherton at Middleton on Sunday last, where he and Elder Hardman had obtained a room to preach to the Chartists. We have also a place opened at Didsbury and Heaton. About three weeks ago there was a letter inserted in the Manchester Courier by a writer who signs himself R. P. calling upon the clergymen of the Church of England, the respectable <inhabitants, and the most respectable> and intelligent of the police, to attend our meetings at the Carpenter’s Hall, as they had fondly hoped that the system would have fallen to the ground by the weight of its own absurdity; but they found that there was method and consistency in the apparent madness of these deluded people, and that experience had taught them that such expectations were vain; as they observed that there was considerable consistency displayed, [p. 54]
<1842 Jan 29> and, method attending our arrangements, there being an emigration office established in this town &c. The writer suspected there was a genuine American trick being practised by the interested parties at the head of the system, to decoy the ignorant and unwary to perish in the swamps of , and that they were draining the country of their best artists; and that it was high time some steps were taken to put a stop to such practices. We have since discovered that the writer is no other than Robert Phillips Esq. an extensive manufacturer and merchant, brother to Mark Phillips Esq another great manufacturer and member of Parliament for the Borough of . The Editor of the Courier has been playing upon the same string for several weeks since, and feels satisfied that <from> the exposure which he has given the whole system, it must inevitably die away. He was therefore satisfied with having done his duty, and could safely leave them to the management of the proper parties, and recommended the police to do their duty. It appears that the gallant officer at the head of the police, (Sir Charles Shaw,) has two much discretion and good sense to be set on like a dog to worry out a society of Christians, because the editor of the Puseyite Oracle, pointed the finger of scorn at them. Because they dared to worship God according to the dictates of their own consciences I should have liked very well for the police to have been there on Sunday last, for three persons had to be put out by the brethren for disturbing the meeting in the Sacrament services.
I remain, beloved brethren, Your Bro. and fellow laborer
.”
“P. S. I omitted to say that the writer in the paper alluded to, informed the public that he was endeavoring to obtain information respecting the movements of the people. He had previously sent a person to , to get him to state something in writing respecting emigration, and after the publication of the letter before referred to, he again sent to for addional information in writing. I happened to be at ’s when he made the second application, and I told that he was the individual who had published the letter written in the Courier. sent him another letter containing the required information; and also stated that he had no objection to submit to him, or to the Government of this country, or any of its departments, the religious principles of our society, or place of emigration, and indeed the whole of our movements in this and other [p. 55]
<1842 Jan 29> countries, for the strictest investigation. The Manufacturers are evidently beginning to be jealous of the mechanics and workmen emigrating with a people having so systematic an organization as the Latter Day Saints display in their arrangements in this town. I remain. Yours &c.
<Feb 1> The following article is from the Millennial Star of this date.
“Emigration
<Page 1273> In the midst of the general distress which prevails in this country on account of want of employment, the high price of provisions, the oppression, priestcraft, and iniquity of the land, it is pleasing to the household of faith to contemplate a reserved by the Almighty as a sure asylum for the poor and oppressed— a country every way adapted to their wants and conditions— and still more pleasing to think that thousands of the Saints have already made their escape from this country and all its abuses and distress, and that they have found a home, whereby persevering industry they may enjoy all the blessings of liberty, peace, and plenty.
It is not yet two years since the Saints in England, in obedience to the command of their heavenly Father, commenced a general plan of emigration to the land of Zion. They were few in number— generally poor, and had every opposition to encounter, both from a want of means and from the enemies of truth. who circulated every falsehood calculated to hinder or discourage them. Newspapers and tracts were put in circulation, sermons and public speeches were delivered in abundance, to warn the people that was a barren waste on the sea shore,— that it was a wild and uninhabited swamp,— that it was full of savages, wild beasts and serpents,— that all the English Saints who should go there would be immediately sold for slaves by the leaders of the church,— that there was nothing to eat— no water, and no way possible to obtain a living— that all who went there would have their money taken from them, and themselves imprisoned, &c.
But notwithstanding all these things thousands have emigrated from this country, and now find themselves comfortably situated, and in the enjoyment of the comforts of life, and in the midst of society where God is worshipped in the spirit of truth and union, and where nearly all are agreed in religious principles. They all find plenty of employment and good wages, while the expense of living is about one eight of what it costs in this country. For instance— beef and pork costs about one penny per lb.; flour from 2s to 3s. for forty pounds; and Indian meal [p. 56]
<1842 February 1 > about one shilling for 60 lbs.; butter from 4d to 6d. per lb., while milch cows are to be had in plenty for about £3 per head, and other things in proportion. Millions on millions of acres of land lie before them unoccupied, with a soil as rich as Eden, and a surface as smooth, clear, and ready for the plough as the park scenery of England.
Instead of a lonely swamp or dense forest filled with savages, wild beasts and serpents, large cities and villages are springing up in their midst, with schools, colleges and temples. The mingled noise of mechanism, the bustle of trade, the song of devotion, are heard in the distance, while thousands of flocks and herds are seen grazing peacefully on the plains, and the fields and gardens smile with plenty, and the wild red men of the forest are only seen as they come on a friendly visit to the Saints, and to learn the way of the Lord.
Several large ships have been chartered by the Saints during the present fall and winter, and have been filled with emigrants, who have gone forth with songs of joy; and some of them are already safely in the promised land, while others are, doubtless, still tossing upon the ocean.
The expence of passage and provisions to , has, at no time this season, exceeded £4, and it is generally as low as three pounds fifteen shillings. This is remarkable, when we reflect that each passenger has provisions and water provided in plenty for ten weeks. But it is obtained at this low price by a union of effort among the Saints, and by the faithful and persevering exertions of their agents. For instance, they purchase provisions by the quantity, and duty free, and the moment they bid farewell to their native shores, they hoist the Flag of Liberty— the ensign of Zion— the stars and stripes of the American Union; and under its protection they completely and practically nullify the bread tax. They eat free bread, free tea, free sugar, free everything, and thus accomplish a journey of five thousand miles on the same money that it would cost to feed them for the same length of time in England.
Who that has a heart to feel or a soul to rejoice, will not be glad at so glorious a plan of deliverance? Who will not hail the messengers of the Latter Day Saints as the friends of humanity— the benefactors of mankind?
Thousands have gone, and millions more must go,
The Gentiles as a stream to Zion flow.
Yes, friends, this glorious work has but just commenced; and we [p. 57]
<1842 February 1> now call upon the Saints to come forward with united effort, with persevering exertion, and,— with union of action, and help yourselves and one another to emigrate to the Land of Promise.
In this way we shall not only bring about the deliverance of tens of thousands who must otherwise suffer in this country, but we shall add to the strength of Zion, and help to rear her cities and temples— “to make her wilderness like Eden, and her desert like the garden of the Lord,”— while the young men and the middle aged will serve to increase her legions— to strengthen her bulwarks— that the enemies of law and order, who have sought her destruction may stand afar off and tremble, and her banners become terrible to the wicked
Ye children of Zion, once more we say, in the name of Israel’s God, arise, break off your shackles, loose yourselves from the bands of your neck, and go forth to inherit the earth, and to build up the waste places of many generations.
All who would go before September next, should go in the early part of March, as it is as late as is advisable to venture by way of , on account of the extreme heat of summer; and to go by or Quebec will be double the expense. Experience has taught us that an emigrant can go from to , and from thence 1,500 miles up the river to for something like £5 per head, including all provision and expenses; while by way of or Quebec it will cost from ten to thirteen pounds; and besides, there is another consideration, and that is, goods will cost but a trifle for freight up the on a steamer, while the expense would be immense the other way.
Therefore, the Saints will please take notice, that after the 10th of March next emigration had better entirely cease till about the 20th of September following. If thousands should wish to go between this time and the 10th of March, they have only to furnish us with their names and about £4 per head, (children under 14 years, half price) and we will provide them passage and provisions for the voyage, and return the overplus, if any, at .
We would again urge upon emigrants the important fact, that if they make known to us their intentions, and send their money and names some weeks beforehand, it will be a great convenience, and save confusion, trouble, and expense. All applications should be addressed to Messrs. and , 36 Chapel Street, , or to the Star [p. 58]
<1842 February 1> Office, 47, Oxford Street, .
We do not wish to confine the benefit of our emigration plan to the Saints, but are willing to grant all industrious, honest, and well disposed persons who may apply to us the same information and assistance as emigrants to the western , there being abundant room for more than a hundred millions of inhabitants
<" 3> took the superintendence of the Printing <Page 1273> Office, and the Editorial department of the Times and Seasons: who commenced by taking an inventory of the establishment this day.
<" 17>
Hanley, Stafford Co. Eng.
Feb 17th 1842.
Prest J. Smith, The work in which we are engaged <Page 1274> rolls on in this land, and in spite of all its enemies,—— —— moves onward in majesty and power; there are many who devote all their time and talent in endeavoring to overthrow it; but I discover they can “do nothing against the truth; but for it.” Many tracts have been published against us, containing all manner of lies, but in the end good will be the result. “He that knoweth God, heareth us.” Some of the tools of Satan are doing more in spreading the truth than we are able to do; one in particular, a Mr Brindley, is publishing a periodical shewing the errors and blasphemies of Mormonism, and in order to do this he publishes many of the revelations of God given to us; and, through this means, the testimony is visiting the mansions of the high and mighty ones— the Reverends, Right Reverends, and all the noble champions of sectarians receive them as a precious morsel; and they are read with much interest; whereas, if we had sent them, they would have been spurned from their dwellings, and would not have been considered worth reading. The state of this country is very awful, and is, according to prospects on the eve of a mighty revolution; all confidence is gone between master and man, and men are afraid of each other, peace is fast removing from this land; in the course of the last few days, in many parts of this isle, they have been burning the effigy of <the> great men of this nation— poverty, distress, and starvation abound on every hand. The groans, and tears, and wretchedness of the thousands of the people is enough to rend the hearts of demons; many of the saints are suffering much through hunger and [p. 59]
<1842 February 17> nakedness; many with large families can scarcely get bread and water enough to hold the spirit in the tabernacle; many—— very many, are out of employment; and cannot get work to do, and others that do work hard fourteen or fifteen hours per day, can scarcely earn enough to enable them to live upon the earth. Surely there is need of deliverance in Zion, and I am ready to exclaim thanks be to thy name O Lord, for remembering thy covenants! and that the “set time to favor Zion has come,” and that he has chosen the west for a refuge for his people.
Wishing you all success I remain, Yours in the New and Everlasting Covenant.
Alfred Cordon.
<March 4> Attended City Council, and moved “That when property is sold at Sheriff’s, Marshal’s or Constable’s sale under the <Page 1286.> ordinances of this , the persons having their property sold shall have the privilege of redeeming the same, by paying the principal cost, and fifteen per cent on principal, with cost and charges within thirty days after sale”
<" 9>
“Dear Sir, I yesterday had the pleasure of receiving your letter of Feb. 10— am much pleased that you have effected a sale <Page 1287.> and are so soon to be with us &c.
I have purchased the lands you desired, and will use my influence to have the improvements made which you wish. Bro Weiler received your letter and says he will do what he can, to have all done.
The eight hundred dollars for the and , I wish you to bring in goods, for which I will give you stock and credit, as soon as received.
I wish you to invest as much money as you possibly can, in goods, to bring here, and I will purchase them of you when you come, if we can agree on terms; or you can have my new brick to rent. I wish the business kept up by some one, in the building as it is a very fine house, and cost me a handsome amount to build it. Some eight or ten thousand dollars worth of goods would be of great advantage to this place: therefore, if you or some of the brethren would bring them on. I have no doubt but that I can arrange for them in some way to your, or their, advantage.
As to money matters here, the State Bank is down, and we cannot tell you what bank would be safe a month hence. I would [p. 60]
<1842 March 9> say that gold and silver is the only safe money a man can keep these times, you can sell specie here for more premium than you have to give: therefore, there would be no loss, and it would be safe. The Bank you deposit in might fail before you had time to draw out again.
I am now very busily engaged in translating, and, therefore cannot give as much time to public matters as I could wish, but will nevertheless do what I can, to forward your affairs.
I will send you a memorandum of such goods as will suit this market.
Yours affectionately
Joseph Smith”
<" 27> The following brief extract is from Elder ’s <Page 1303> Journal.
“This was an interesting day— a large assembly met in the near the . Brother addressed the people in a very interesting manner. He was followed by Joseph the Seer, who made some highly edifying and instructive remarks concerning baptism for the dead. He said the Bible supported the doctrine, quoting 1 Corinthians ch 15 v 29 ‘Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead, if the dead rise not at all? Why are they then baptized for the dead?’ If there is one word of the Lord that supports the doctrine of baptism for the dead, it is enough to establish it as a true doctrine. Again; if we can by the authority of the Priesthood of the Son of God baptize a man in the name of the Father of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost for remission of sins, it is just as much our privilege to act as an agent, and be baptized for the remission of sins for and in behalf of our dead kindred, who have not heard the gospel, or fulness of it.
After meeting closed, the congregation again assembled upon the bank of the river, and Joseph the Seer went into the river, and baptized all that came unto him.”
<" 30> Sunday 30. I met with the Female Relief Society, and gave <Page 1303> them some instructions of which the following brief sketch was reported by Miss .
“President Joseph Smith arose— spoke of the organization of the Female Relief Society.— said he was deeply interested that it might be built up to the Most High in an acceptable manner— that its rules must be observed— that none should be received into it but those who were worthy— proposed a close examination of every candidate— that [p. 61]
<1842 March 30.> that the Society was going too fast— it should grow up by degrees— should commence with a few individuals— thus have a select society of the virtuous, and those who would walk circumspectly— commended them for their zeal, but said sometimes their zeal was not according to knowledge. One principal object of the Institution was to purge out iniquity— said they must be extremely careful in all their examinations, or the consequences would be serious.
All difficulties which might and would cross our way must be surmounted, though the soul be tried, the heart faint, and hands hang down— must not retrace our steps— there must be decision of character, aside from sympathy— when instructed, we must obey that voice, observe the Laws of the Kingdom of God, that the blessing of Heaven may rest down upon us— all must act in concert, or nothing can be done— and should move according to the Ancient Priesthood; hence the Saints should be a select people, separate from all the evils of the world, choice, virtuous and holy— the Lord was going to make of the Church of Jesus Christ a kingdom of Priests, a holy people, a chosen generation, as in Enoch’s day, having all the gifts “as illustrated to the Church in Paul’s epistles and teachings to the Churches in his day— that it is the privilege of each member to live long, and enjoy health. He then blessed the Saints”
<April 9> “The Saints in assembled at the house of at an early hour in the morning to pay their last respects to the body of Ephraim Marks son of
<" 10>
“Joseph the Seer arose in the power of God— reproved and <Page 1316> rebuked wickedness before the people in the name of the Lord God. He wished to say a few words to suit the condition of the general mass— and I shall speak with authority of the priesthood in the name of the Lord God, which shall prove a saviour of life unto life, or of death unto death. Notwithstanding this congregation profess to be Saints, yet I stand in the midst of all characters and classes of men. If you wish to go where God is, you must be like God or possess the principles which God possesses, for if we are not drawing towards God in principle we are going from him, and drawing towards the devil. Yes I am standing in the midst of all kinds of people— Search your hearts, and see if you are like God. I have searched mine, and feel to repent of all my sins.— We have thieves among us, adulterers, liars, hypocrites. If God should speak [p. 62]
<1842 April 10> from heaven he would command you not to steal, not to commit adultery, not to covet, nor deceive, but be faithful over a few things. As far as we degenerate from God, we descend to the devil, and lose knowledge; and without knowledge we cannot be saved, and while our hearts are filled with evil, and we are studying evil, their is no room in our hearts for good or studying good,— is not God good, then you be good, if he is faithful, then you be faithful. Add to your faith virtue, to virtue knowledge, and seek for every good thing. The Church must be cleansed, and I proclaim against all iniquity. A man is saved no faster than he gets knowledge, for if he does not get knowledge, he will be brought into captivity by some evil power in the other world, as evil spirits will have more knowledge, and consequently more power, than many men who are on the earth. Hence it needs revelation to assist us, and give us knowledge of the things of God. What is the reason that the priests of the day do not get revelation? They ask only to consume it upon their lust,— their hearts are corrupt, and they cloak their iniquity by saying that there are no more Revelations. But if any revelations are given of God, they are universally opposed by the priests, and christendom at large, for it reveals their wickedness, and abominations. Many other remarks of interest were made.”
<May 7> “Such was the curious and interesting excitement which prevailed at the time, in the surrounding country, about the Legion, that <Page 1329> adjourned the Circuit Court, in Session at , and came with some of the principal lawyers to see the splendid military parade of the Legion; upon notice of which being given to General Smith he immediately invited them to partake of the repast prepared as above.” [p. 63]
<1842 May 7> The following design shows the position in which the Legion was drawn up.
[Top middle of diagram.] Brig. Gen & Staff
1st Cohort Cavalry
[Top right of diagram.] Position proposed by for Gen Smith
[Left of diagram, written sideways.] Maj. Gen. & Staff
Bands of Music
Lieut. Gen. Joseph Smith. Staff Guard & ladies on horseback.
[Bottom middle of diagram.] 2nd Cohort Infantry—
Brig. Gen. & Staff
[Right of diagram, written sideways.] Artillery.
<June 15>
“Various and conflicting are the opinions of men in regard to the gift of the Holy Ghost. Some people have been in the <Page 1340.> habit of calling every supernatural manifestation, the effects of the Spirit of God, whilst there are others that think there is no manifestation connected with it at all; and that it is nothing but a mere impulse of the mind, or an inward feeling, impression, or secret testimony, or evidence, which men possess, and that there is no such thing as an outward manifestation. It is not to be wondered at that men should be ignorant, in a great measure, of the principles of salvation, and more especially of the nature, office, power, influence, gifts and blessings of the gift of the Holy Ghost; when we consider that the human family have been enveloped in gross darkness and ignorance for many centuries past without revelation, or any just criterion to arrive at a knowledge of the things of God, which can only be known by the spirit of God. Hence it not infrequently occurs, that when the elders of this church preach to the inhabitants of the world, that if they obey the gospel they shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost; that the people expect to see some wonderful manifestation; some great display of power, or some extraordinary miracle performed; and it is often the case that young members in this church, for want of better information, carry along with them their old notions of things, and sometimes fall into egregious errors. We have lately had some information concerning a few members that are in this dilemma and for their information make a few remarks upon the subject [p. 64]
<1842 June 15> We believe in the gift of the Holy Ghost being enjoyed now, as much as it was in the apostles’ days;— we believe that it is necessary to make and to organize the priesthood; that no man can be called to fill any office in the ministry without it; we also believe in prophesy, in tongues, in visions, and in revelations, in gifts and in healings; and that these things cannot be enjoyed without the gift of the holy ghost; we believe that holy men of old spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost, and that holy men in these days speak by the same principle; we believe in its being a comforter and a witness bearer, “that it brings things past to our remembrance, leads us into all truth, and shews us of things to come:” we believe that “no man can know that Jesus is <the> Christ, but by the Holy Ghost.” We believe in it in all its fulness, and power, and greatness, and glory: but whilst we do this, we believe in it rationally, reasonably, consistently, and scripturally, and not according to the wild vagaries, foolish notions and traditions of men. The human family are very apt to run to extremes, especially in religious matters, and hence people in general, either want some miraculous display, or they will not believe in the gift of the Holy Ghost at all. If an elder lays his hands upon a person, it is thought by many that the person must immediately rise and speak in tongues, and prophesy; this idea is gathered from the circumstance of Paul laying his hands upon certain individuals who had <been> previously (as they stated) baptized unto John’s baptism; which when he had done, they “spake with tongues and prophesied.” Philip also, when he had preached the gospel to the inhabitants of the City of Samaria, sent for Peter and John, who when they came laid their hands upon them for the gift of the Holy Ghost for as yet he was fallen upon none of them; and when Simon Magus saw that through the laying on of the apostles hands the Holy Ghost was given, he offered them money that he might possess the same power. Acts viii. These passages are considered by many as affording sufficient evidence for some miraculous, visible, manifestation, whenever hands are laid on for the gift of the Holy Ghost.
We believe that the Holy Ghost is imparted by the laying on of hands of those in authority, and that the gift of tongues, and also the gift of prophecy, are gifts of the spirit, and are obtained [p. 65]
<1842 June 15> through that medium; but then to say that men always prophesied and spoke in tongues when they had the imposition of of hands, would be to state that which is untrue, contrary to the practice of the apostles, and at variance with holy writ; for Paul says, “to one is given the gift of tongues, to another the gift of prophecy, and to another the gift of healing”— and again, “do all prophecy? do all speak with tongues? do all interpret?” evidently showing that all did not possess these several gifts; but that one received one gift and another received another gift— all did not prophecy; all did not speak in tongues; all did not work miracles; but all did receive the gift of the Holy Ghost; sometimes they spake in tongues and prophesied in the Apostles days, and sometimes they did not.— The same is the case with us also in our administrations, while more frequently there is no manifestation at all that is visible to the surrounding multitude; this will appear plain when we consult the writings of the apostles and notice their proceedings in relation to this matter. Paul, in 1. Cor. xii. says, “Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I would not have you ignorant;” it is evident from this that some of them were ignorant in relation to these matters, or they would not need instruction. Again, in the xiv. chapter, he says “Follow after charity and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophecy.” It is very evident from these scriptures that many of them had not spiritual gifts, for if they had spiritual gifts where was the necessity of Paul telling them to follow after them.’ and it is as evident that they did not all receive those gifts by the imposition of hands, for they as a church had been baptized and confirmed by the laying on of hands— and yet to a church of this kind, under the immediate inspection and superintendence of the apostles, it was necessary for Paul to say “follow after charity and desire spiritual gifts, but rather that ye may prophecy,” evidently showing that those gifts were in the church, but not enjoyed by all in their outward manifestations.
But supposing the gifts of the spirit were immediately, upon the imposition of hands, enjoyed by all, in all their fulness and power; the skeptic would still be as far from receiving any testimony except upon a mere casualty as before, for all the gifts of the spirit are not visible to the natural vision, or understanding of man; indeed very few of them are. We read that “Christ ascended into heaven and gave gifts unto men; and he gave some apostles, [p. 66]
<1842 June 15> and some prophets, and some evangelists, and some pastors and teachers;” Eph iv. The Church is a compact body composed of different members and is strictly analagous to the human system, and Paul after speaking of the different gifts says, “Now ye are the body of Christ and each one members in particular; and God hath set some in the church, first apostles, secondarily prophets, thirdly teachers, after that miracles, then gifts of healing, helps, governments, diversities of tongues. Are all apostles? Are all prophets? Are all teachers? Are all workers of miracles? Have all the gifts of healing? Do all speak with tongues? Do all interpret?” It is evident that they do not; yet are they all members of the <one body; all members of the> natural body, are not the eye, the ear, the head or the hand— yet the eye cannot say to the ear I have no need of thee, not nor the head to the foot, I have no need of thee; they are all so many component parts in the perfect machine— the one body;— and if one member suffer, the whole of the members suffer with it; and if one member rejoice, all the rest are honored with it.
These then are all gifts; they come from God; they are of God; they are all the gifts of the holy Ghost; they are what Christ ascended into heaven to impart; and yet how few of them could be known by the generality of men. Peter and John were apostles, yet the Jewish court scourged them as impostors. Paul was both an apostle and prophet, yet they stoned him and put him into prison. The people knew nothing about it, although he had in possession the gift of the Holy Ghost. Our Savior was “anointed with the oil of gladness above his fellows,” yet so far from the people knowing him, they said he was Beelzebub, and crucified him as an impostor. Who could point out a pastor, a teacher or an evangelist, by their appearance; yet <had> they the gift of the Holy Ghost. But to come to the other members of the church and examine the gifts as spoken of by Paul, and we shall find that the world can in general know nothing about them, and that there is but one or two that could be immediately known, if they were all poured out immediately upon the imposition of hands. 1. Cor xii. Paul says “There are diversities of gifts yet the same spirit; and there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord; and there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God, which worketh all in all. But the manifestation of the spirit is given [p. 67]
<1842 June 15> unto every man to profit withall. For to one is given, by the spirit, the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge, by the same spirit; to another faith by the same spirit; to another the gifts of healing, by the same spirit; to another the working of miracles; to another prophecy to another discerning of spirits; to another divers kinds of tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues. But all these worketh that one and the self same spirit, dividing to each man severally as he will. “There are several gifts mentioned here, yet which of them all could be known, by an observer, at the imposition of hands? The word of wisdom, and the word of knowledge, are as much gifts as any other, yet if a person possessed both of these gifts, or received them by the imposition of hands, who would know it? Another might receive the gift of faith, and they would be as ignorant of it. Or suppose a man had <the> gift of healing, or power to work miracles, that would not then be known; it would require time and circumstances to call these gifts into operation. Suppose a man had the discerning of spirits, who would be the wiser for it? Or if he had the interpretation of tongues, unless some one spoke in an unknown tongue, he of course would have to be silent; there are only two gifts that could be made visible— the gift of tongues and the gift of prophecy. These are things that are <the> most talked about, and yet if a person spoke in an unknown tongue, according to Paul’s testimony, he would be a barbarian to those present. They would say that it was gibberish; and if he prophesied they would call it nonsense. The gift of tongues is the smallest gift perhaps of the whole, and yet it is— one that is the most sought after. So that according to the testimony of scripture and the manifestations of the spirit in ancient days, very little could be known about it by the surrounding multitude; except on some extraordinary occasion as on the day of Pentecost. The greatest, the best, and the most useful gifts would be known nothing about by an observer. It is true that a man might prophecy which is a great gift; and one that Paul told the people— the church— to seek after and <to> covet, rather than to speak in tongues; but what does the world know about prophecying? Paul says that it “serveth only to those that believe.”— But does not the scriptures say that they spake in tongues and prophecied? Yes; but who is it that writes these scriptures? Not the men of the world or mere casual observers, but the Apostles— men who knew one gift from another, and [p. 68]
<1842 June 15> and of course were capable of writing about it; if we had the testimony of the scribes and pharisees concerning the outpouring of the spirit on the day of Pentecost, they would have told us that it was no gift, but that the people were “drunken with new wine,” and we shall finally have to come to the same conclusion that Paul did, that “no man knows the things of God but by the spirit of God,” for with the great revelations of Paul, when he was caught up into the the third heavens and saw things that were not lawful to utter, no man was apprised of it until he mentioned it himself fourteen years after; and when John had the curtains of heaven withdrawn, and by vision looked through the dark vista of future ages, and contemplated events that should transpire throughout every subsequent period of time until the final winding up scene— while he gazed upon the glories of the eternal world, saw an innumerable company of angels and heard the voice of God— it was in the spirit on the Lord’s day; unnoticed and unobserved by the world.
The manifestations of the gift of the Holy Ghost; the ministering of Angels; or the development of the power, majesty or glory of God were very seldom manifested publicly, and that generally to the people of God; as to the Israelites; but most generally when angels have come, or God <has> revealed himself, it has been to individuals in private— in their chamber— in the wilderness or fields; and that generally without noise or tumult. The angel delivered Peter out of prison in the dead of night— came to Paul unobserved by the rest of the crew— appeared to Mary and Elizabeth without the knowledge of others— spoke to John the Baptist whilst the people around were ignorant of it; When Elisha saw the chariots of Israel and the horsemen thereof, it was unknown to others. When the Lord appeared to Abraham it was at his tent door, when the angels went to Lot no person knew them but himself, which was the case probably with Abraham and his wife; when the Lord appeared to Moses it was in the burning bush, in the tabernacle, or on the mountain top; when Elijah was taken in a chariot of fire, it was unobserved by the world; and when he was in the cleft of a rock, there was loud thunder, but the Lord was not in the thunder; there was an earthquake, but the Lord was not in the earthquake; and then there was a still small voice, which was the voice of the Lord, saying, “what dost thou [p. 69]
<1842 June 15> here, Elijah?”
The Lord cannot always be known by the thunder of his voice; by the display of his glory, or by the manifestation of his power; and those that are the most anxious to see these things, are the least prepared to meet them, and were the Lord to manifest his power as he did to the children of Israel, such characters would be the first to say “let not the Lord speak any more, lest we his people die.”
We would say to the brethren, seek to know God in your closets, call upon him in the fields; follow the directions of the Book of Mormon, and pray over, and for, your families, your cattle, your flocks, your herds, your corn, and all things that you possess; ask the blessing of God upon all your labors, and every thing that you engage in; be virtuous, and pure, be men of integrity and truth, keep the commandments of God, and then you will be able more perfectly to understand the difference between right and wrong, between the things of God, and the things of men; and your path will be like that of the just, “which shineth brighter and brighter, unto the perfect day.” Be not so curious about tongues, do not speak in tongues except there be an interpreter present; the ultimate design of tongues is to speak to foreigners, and if persons are very anxious to display their intelligence, let them speak to such in their own tongues. The gifts of God are all useful in their place, but when they are applied to that which God does not intend, they prove an injury, a snare and a curse instead of a blessing. We may at some future time, enter more fully into this subject; but shall let this suffice for the present.”
<June 30>
“ 27th May 1842
<page 1352> Rev Joseph Smith,
Dear Sir,— Yours notifying me of your application for the benefit of the bankrupt act is at hand— I regret very much the step you have taken as I am fearful it will have a most disastrous influence upon your society, both commercially and religiously— You have however probably weighed the subject with sufficient care to arrive at a correct decision— You will oblige me by stating immediately on the receipt of this letter, your precise meaning in saying that “all your creditors would fare alike”— It is, as you will see, important for me to know the course taken with my notes, and also the position in which we stand to each other— You have my [p. 70]
<1842 June 30> bond for certain lands, or rather, you have my bond that you shall have a deed to certain lands upon the payment of notes specified in said bond— I wish to know exactly how this bond stands in your inventory— Of course it cannot stand as a title to the property, but I want to know the disposition which is to be made of it— Possibly some arrangement might <be made> between us at once; still I do not know how and will view the subject.
Yours &c. ”
<June 18> The following brief extract is from the Journal of Elder .
“The citizens of both male and <Page 1342> female assembled near the for a general meeting— many thousands were assembled. Joseph the Seer arose and spoke his mind in great plainness, concerning the iniquity, hypocrisy, wickedness and corruption of Gen. . He also prophesied in the name of the Lord, concerning the merchants in the city; that if they, and the rich did not open their hearts and contribute to the poor, they would be cursed by the hand of God, and be cut off from the land of the living. <¶> The main part of the day was taken up, upon the business of the Agricultural and Manufacturing Society. Arrangements were entered into to commence operations immediately, under the Charter granted by the Legislature.
Also Joseph commanded the Twelve to organize the Church more according to the law of God; that is to require of those that come in to be settled according to their council, and also to appoint a committee to wait upon all who arrive, make them welcome, and council them what to do. , , and , were the committee appointed to wait upon Emigrants, and settle them.”
<May 26> I met with the Ladies Relief Society and gave them <Page 1338> a short address, a synopsis was reported, by Miss .
“President Joseph Smith read the 14th Chapter of Ezekiel— said the Lord had declared by the prophet that the people should each one stand for himself, and depend on no man or men in that state of corruption of the Jewish Church— that righteous persons could only deliver their own souls— applied it to the present state of the Church of <Jesus Christ> Latter Day Saints— said if the people departed from the Lord they must fall— that they were depending on the prophet, hence were darkened in their minds, in consequence [p. 71]
<1842 May 26> of neglecting the duties devolving upon themselves,— envious towards the innocent, while they afflict the virtuous with their shafts of envy.
There is another error which opens a door for the adversary to enter. As females possess refined feelings and sensitiveness, they are also subject to an over much zeal, which must ever prove dangerous, and cause them to be rigid in a religious capacity— should be armed with mercy, notwithstanding the iniquity among us. Said he had been instrumental in bringing iniquity to light— it was melancholy and awful that so many should place themselves under the condemnation of the devil, and going to perdition,— with deep feeling said that they are fellow mortals— we loved them once, shall we not encourage them to reformation? We have not forgiven them seventy times seven <as our Savior directed>— perhaps we have not forgiven them once. There is now a day of salvation to such as repent and reform— they should be cast out from this society; yet we should woo them to return to God, lest they escape not the damnation of hell!— Where there is a mountain top, there is also a valley— we should act in all things on a proper medium to every immortal spirit— Notwithstanding the unworthy are among us, the virtuous should not from self importance grieve and oppress needlessly, those unfortunate ones— even these should be encouraged to hereafter live to be honored by this Society, who are the best portions of community. Said he had two things to recommend to the members of this Society— to put a double watch over the tongue: no organized body can exist without this at all. All organized bodies have their peculiar evils, weaknesses and difficulties— the object is to make those not so good reform and return to the path of virtue that they may be numbered with the good; and even hold the keys of power, which will influence to virtue and goodness,— should chasten and reprove, and keep it all in silence, not even mention them again; then you will be established in power, virtue and holiness, and the wrath of God will be turned away. I have one request to make to the President and members of the Society, that you search yourselves— the tongue is an unruly member— hold your tongues about things of no moment— a little tale will set the world on fire. At this time the truth on the guilty should not be told openly,— strange as this may seem, yet this is policy. We must use precaution in bringing sinners to justice, lest in exposing these heinous sins we draw [p. 72]
<1842 May 26> the indignation of a gentile world upon us; (and, to their imagination, justly too). It is necessary to hold an influence in the world, and thus spare ourselves an extermination; and also accomplish our end in spreading the gospel, or holiness, in the earth.
If we were brought to desolation, the disobedient would, find no help. There are some who are obedient, yet men cannot steady the ark— my arm cannot do it— God must steady it. To the iniquitous show yourselves merciful. I am advised by some of the heads of the Church <to tell the Relief Society to be virtuous, but to save the Church> from desolation, and the sword, beware, be still, be prudent, Repent, reform, but do it in a way not to destroy all around you. I do not want to cloak iniquity— all things contrary to the will of God, should be cast from us, but don’t do more hurt than good with your tongues— be pure in heart. Jesus designs to save the people out of their sins. Said Jesus “ye shall do the work, which ye see me do.” These are the grand key words for the Society to act upon.
If I were not in your midst to aid and council you, the Devil would overcome you. I want the innocent to go free— rather spare ten iniquitous among you, than condemn one innocent one. “Fret not thyself because of evil doers.” God will see to it.
<June 9 > Meeting of the Female Relief Society, at the , Nauvoo June 9th. 1842 Reported by Miss .
<page 1339> President Joseph Smith opened the meeting by prayer, and then adddressed the congregation on the design of the Institution— said it is no matter how fast the Society increases if all the members are virtuous— that we must be as particular with regard to the character of members now, as when the Society first started— that sometimes persons wish to crowd themselves into a Society of this kind, when they do not intend to pursue the ways of purity and righteousness, as if the Society would be a shelter to them in their iniquity.
He said that henceforth no person shall be admitted, but by presenting regular petitions, signed by two or three members in good standing in the Society,— and whoever comes in must be of good report.
Objections having been previously made against Mahala Overton they were removed; after which President Joseph Smith continued his address— said he was going to preach mercy. Suppose that Jesus Christ and Holy Angels should object to us on frivolous [p. 73]
<1842 June 9> things, what would become of us? We must be merciful to one another and overlook small things.
Respecting the reception of Sister Overton, President Joseph Smith said. It grieves me that there is no fuller fellowship; if one member suffer, all feel it— by union of feeling we obtain power with God. Christ said he came to call sinners to repentance, and save them.— Christ was condemned by the self righteous Jews because he took sinners into his Society— he took them upon the principle that they repented of their sins. It is the object of this Society to reform persons, not to take those that are corrupt and foster them in their wickedness; but if they repent, we are bound to take them, and by kindness sanctify and cleanse them from all unrighteousness, by our influence in watching over them. Nothing will have such influence over people, as the fear of being disfellowshipped by so goodly a society as this. Then take Sister Overton, as Jesus received sinners into his bosom. Sister Overton, in the name of the Lord I now make you free. Nothing is so much calculated to lead people to forsake sin, as to take them by the hand, and watch over them with tenderness. When persons manifest the least kindness and love to me, O what power it has over my mind, while the opposite course has a tendency to harrow up all the harsh feelings and depress the human mind.
It is one evidence that men are unacquainted with the principle of godliness, to behold the contraction of affectionate feelings and lack of charity in the world. The power and glory of godliness is spread out on a broad principle to throw out the mantle of charity God does not look on sin with allowance, but when men have sinned, there must be allowance made for them.
All the religious world is boasting of righteousness— ’tis the doctrine of the devil to retard the human mind, and hinder our progress, by filling us with self righteousness. The nearer we get to our Heavenly Father, the more are we disposed to look with compassion on perishing souls— we feel that we want to take them upon our shoulders, and cast their sins behind our backs. My talk is intended for all this society;— if you would have God have mercy on you, have mercy on one another.
President Smith then referred them to the conduct of the Savior when he was taken and crucified &c.
He then made a promise in the name of the Lord, saying [p. 74]
<1842 June 9> that that soul who has righteousness enough to ask God in the secret place for life, every day of their lives, shall live to three score years and ten. We must walk uprightly all the day long. How glorious are the principles of righteousness! We are full of selfishness— the devil flatters us that we are very righteous, when we are feeding on the faults of others. We can only live by worshipping our God— all must do it for themselves— none can do it for another. How mild the Savior dealt with Peter, saying, “when thou art converted strengthen thy brethren.” At another time he said to him “lovest thou me?”, and having received Peter’s reply, he said “feed my sheep.” If the sisters love the Lord, let them feed the sheep. and not destroy them. How oft have wise men and women sought to dictate Bro Joseph by saying “O, if I were bro Joseph I would do this and that”; but if they were in Bro Joseph’s shoes they would find that men or women could not be compelled into the Kingdom of God, but must be dealt with in longsuffering, and at last we shall save them. The way to keep all the saints together, and keep the work rolling, is to wait with all longsuffering, ’till God shall bring such characters to justice There should be no license for sin, but mercy should go hand in hand with reproof.
Sisters of this Society, shall there be strife among you? I will not have it— you must repent, and get the love of God. Away with self righteousness. The best measure or principle to bring the poor to repentance, is to administer to their wants;— the Ladies Relief Society is not only to relieve the poor, but to save souls.
President Smith then said that he would give a lot of land to the Society, by deeding it to the Treasurer, that the Society may build houses for the poor: He also said he would give a house, frame not finished, and that will move it on to the aforesaid lot, and the Society can pay him by giving orders on the — that it was a good plan to set those to work who are owing widows, and thus make an offsett &c.” [p. 75]
Footnotes
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Jonathan Grimshaw handwriting begins.
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1
“News from the Elders,” LDS Millennial Star, Jan. 1841, 1:239.
Latter-day Saints’ Millennial Star. Liverpool. 1840–1970.
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2
“Methodism In Trouble,” LDS Millennial Star, May 1841, 2:6–7; “Friendly Caution–Mormonism!–From the Manx Liberal,” Times and Seasons, 1 Mar. 1841, 2:331–332.
Latter-day Saints’ Millennial Star. Liverpool. 1840–1970.
Times and Seasons. Commerce/Nauvoo, IL. Nov. 1839–Feb. 1846.
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3
Woodruff, Journal, 12 Nov. 1840.
Woodruff, Wilford. Journals, 1833–1898. Wilford Woodruff, Journals and Papers, 1828–1898. CHL. MS 1352. Also available as Wilford Woodruff’s Journals, 1833–1898, edited by Scott G. Kenney, 9 vols. (Midvale, UT: Signature Books, 1983–1985).
-
4
Young, Journal, 3–4 Dec. 1840; Woodruff, Journal, 3–4 Dec. 1840.
Young, Brigham. Journals, 1832–1877. Brigham Young Office Files, 1832–1878. CHL. CR 1234 1, boxes 71–73.
Woodruff, Wilford. Journals, 1833–1898. Wilford Woodruff, Journals and Papers, 1828–1898. CHL. MS 1352. Also available as Wilford Woodruff’s Journals, 1833–1898, edited by Scott G. Kenney, 9 vols. (Midvale, UT: Signature Books, 1983–1985).
-
5
Young, Journal, 7 Dec. 1840; Woodruff, Journal, 7 Dec. 1840.
Young, Brigham. Journals, 1832–1877. Brigham Young Office Files, 1832–1878. CHL. CR 1234 1, boxes 71–73.
Woodruff, Wilford. Journals, 1833–1898. Wilford Woodruff, Journals and Papers, 1828–1898. CHL. MS 1352. Also available as Wilford Woodruff’s Journals, 1833–1898, edited by Scott G. Kenney, 9 vols. (Midvale, UT: Signature Books, 1983–1985).
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6
TEXT: Cancellation is in pencil.
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7
Young, Journal, 6, 9, and 25 Dec. 1840.
Young, Brigham. Journals, 1832–1877. Brigham Young Office Files, 1832–1878. CHL. CR 1234 1, boxes 71–73.
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8
Young, Journal, 1 Jan. 1841.
Young, Brigham. Journals, 1832–1877. Brigham Young Office Files, 1832–1878. CHL. CR 1234 1, boxes 71–73.
-
9
Woodruff, Journal, 1 Jan. 1840.
Woodruff, Wilford. Journals, 1833–1898. Wilford Woodruff, Journals and Papers, 1828–1898. CHL. MS 1352. Also available as Wilford Woodruff’s Journals, 1833–1898, edited by Scott G. Kenney, 9 vols. (Midvale, UT: Signature Books, 1983–1985).
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10
Lorenzo Snow, London, England, to Parley P. Pratt, Manchester, England, 25 May 1841, in “Communications,” LDS Millennial Star, June 1841, 2:31–32.
Latter-day Saints’ Millennial Star. Liverpool. 1840–1970.
- 11
- 12
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13
“History of George Albert Smith,” 228–229, George Albert Smith, Papers, CHL.
“History of George Albert Smith,” ca. 1857–1858. George Albert Smith, Papers, 1834–1877. CHL. MS 1322, box 1, fd. 1.
- 14
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15
Obituary Notices of Distinguished Persons, 8–11.
Obituary Notices of Distinguished Persons, 1840–1880. CHL. MS 3449.
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16
Woodruff, Journal, 26 Jan. 1841.
Woodruff, Wilford. Journals, 1833–1898. Wilford Woodruff, Journals and Papers, 1828–1898. CHL. MS 1352. Also available as Wilford Woodruff’s Journals, 1833–1898, edited by Scott G. Kenney, 9 vols. (Midvale, UT: Signature Books, 1983–1985).
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17
Lucy Mack Smith, History, 1845, 318–326; “History of George Albert Smith,” 113–121, George Albert Smith, Papers, CHL.
Smith, Lucy Mack. History, 1845. CHL. MS 2049. Also available at josephsmithpapers.org.
“History of George Albert Smith,” ca. 1857–1858. George Albert Smith, Papers, 1834–1877. CHL. MS 1322, box 1, fd. 1.
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18
TEXT: Insertions are in pencil.
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Jonathan Grimshaw handwriting ends; Leo Hawkins begins.
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19
William W. Phelps, “Falsehoods Refuted,” Times and Seasons, 1 Oct. 1841, 2:562–563.
Times and Seasons. Commerce/Nauvoo, IL. Nov. 1839–Feb. 1846.
- 20
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21
Woodruff, Journal, 31 Oct. 1841.
Woodruff, Wilford. Journals, 1833–1898. Wilford Woodruff, Journals and Papers, 1828–1898. CHL. MS 1352. Also available as Wilford Woodruff’s Journals, 1833–1898, edited by Scott G. Kenney, 9 vols. (Midvale, UT: Signature Books, 1983–1985).
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22
Woodruff, Journal, 7 Nov. 1841.
Woodruff, Wilford. Journals, 1833–1898. Wilford Woodruff, Journals and Papers, 1828–1898. CHL. MS 1352. Also available as Wilford Woodruff’s Journals, 1833–1898, edited by Scott G. Kenney, 9 vols. (Midvale, UT: Signature Books, 1983–1985).
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23
“Difference Between the Baptists & Latter-Day Saints,” LDS Millennial Star, Apr. 1841, 1:296–299.
Latter-day Saints’ Millennial Star. Liverpool. 1840–1970.
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24
Nauvoo City Council Minute Book, 29 Mar. 1841, pp. 15–18.
Nauvoo City Council Minute Book / Nauvoo City Council. “A Record of the Proceedings of the City Council of the City of Nauvoo Handcock County, State of Illinois, Commencing A.D. 1841,” ca. 1841–1845. CHL. MS 3435.
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Leo Hawkins handwriting ends; Jonathan Grimshaw begins.
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25
Lesser Priesthood Organization, 21 Mar. 1841, Historian’s Office, JS History Documents, CHL.
Historian’s Office. Joseph Smith History Documents, 1839–1860. CHL. CR 100 396.
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Jonathan Grimshaw handwriting ends; John L. Smith begins.
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26
TEXT: Insertion in pencil.
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John L. Smith handwriting ends; Robert Campbell begins.
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27
Brigham Young et al., “An Epistle of the Twelve, to the Saints Scattered Abroad Among the Nations, Greeting!,” Times and Seasons, 1 Sept. 1841, 2:521–522.
Times and Seasons. Commerce/Nauvoo, IL. Nov. 1839–Feb. 1846.
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Insertion in handwriting of Leo Hawkins.
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28
Robert B. Thompson, Biography by Mercy R. Thompson, Nov. 1854, Historian’s Office, JS History Documents, ca. 1839–1880, CHL.
Historian’s Office. Joseph Smith History Documents, 1839–1860. CHL. CR 100 396.
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29
Woodruff, Journal, 25 Sept. 1841.
Woodruff, Wilford. Journals, 1833–1898. Wilford Woodruff, Journals and Papers, 1828–1898. CHL. MS 1352. Also available as Wilford Woodruff’s Journals, 1833–1898, edited by Scott G. Kenney, 9 vols. (Midvale, UT: Signature Books, 1983–1985).
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30
JS, “The Government of God,” Times and Seasons, 15 July 1842, 3:855–858.
Times and Seasons. Commerce/Nauvoo, IL. Nov. 1839–Feb. 1846.
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31
Woodruff, Journal, 28 Apr. 1842.
Woodruff, Wilford. Journals, 1833–1898. Wilford Woodruff, Journals and Papers, 1828–1898. CHL. MS 1352. Also available as Wilford Woodruff’s Journals, 1833–1898, edited by Scott G. Kenney, 9 vols. (Midvale, UT: Signature Books, 1983–1985).
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32
Woodruff, Journal, 9 Apr. 1842.
Woodruff, Wilford. Journals, 1833–1898. Wilford Woodruff, Journals and Papers, 1828–1898. CHL. MS 1352. Also available as Wilford Woodruff’s Journals, 1833–1898, edited by Scott G. Kenney, 9 vols. (Midvale, UT: Signature Books, 1983–1985).
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33
Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Minutes, 20 Nov. 1841.
Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Minutes, 1840–1844. CHL.
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Robert Campbell handwriting ends; Leo Hawkins begins.
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34
Woodruff, Journal, 21 Nov. 1841.
Woodruff, Wilford. Journals, 1833–1898. Wilford Woodruff, Journals and Papers, 1828–1898. CHL. MS 1352. Also available as Wilford Woodruff’s Journals, 1833–1898, edited by Scott G. Kenney, 9 vols. (Midvale, UT: Signature Books, 1983–1985).
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35
Quorum of the Twelve Apostles, Minutes, 30 Nov. 1841.
Quorum of the Twelve Apostles. Minutes, 1840–1844. CHL.
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36
Nauvoo City Council Minute Book, 18 Dec. 1841, pp. [49]–[50].
Nauvoo City Council Minute Book / Nauvoo City Council. “A Record of the Proceedings of the City Council of the City of Nauvoo Handcock County, State of Illinois, Commencing A.D. 1841,” ca. 1841–1845. CHL. MS 3435.
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37
Woodruff, Journal, 19 Dec. 1841.
Woodruff, Wilford. Journals, 1833–1898. Wilford Woodruff, Journals and Papers, 1828–1898. CHL. MS 1352. Also available as Wilford Woodruff’s Journals, 1833–1898, edited by Scott G. Kenney, 9 vols. (Midvale, UT: Signature Books, 1983–1985).
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39
JS, Journal, 24 Dec. 1841.
- 40
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41
Nauvoo City Council Minute Book, 13 Nov. 1841, pp. 39–40.
Nauvoo City Council Minute Book / Nauvoo City Council. “A Record of the Proceedings of the City Council of the City of Nauvoo Handcock County, State of Illinois, Commencing A.D. 1841,” ca. 1841–1845. CHL. MS 3435.
- 42
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43
Obituary Notices of Distinguished Persons, 2.
Obituary Notices of Distinguished Persons, 1840–1880. CHL. MS 3449.
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44
George Walker, Manchester, England, to Brigham Young et al., 29 Jan. 1842, Times and Seasons, 16 May 1842, 3:787–790.
Times and Seasons. Commerce/Nauvoo, IL. Nov. 1839–Feb. 1846.
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45
Parley P. Pratt, “Emigration,” LDS Millennial Star, Feb. 1842, 2:153–155.
Latter-day Saints’ Millennial Star. Liverpool. 1840–1970.
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46
Woodruff, Journal, 3 Feb. 1842.
Woodruff, Wilford. Journals, 1833–1898. Wilford Woodruff, Journals and Papers, 1828–1898. CHL. MS 1352. Also available as Wilford Woodruff’s Journals, 1833–1898, edited by Scott G. Kenney, 9 vols. (Midvale, UT: Signature Books, 1983–1985).
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47
Alfred Cordon, Hanly, England, to JS, [Nauvoo, IL], 17 Feb. 1842, “Communications,” Times and Seasons, 2 May 1842, 3:778–779.
Times and Seasons. Commerce/Nauvoo, IL. Nov. 1839–Feb. 1846.
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48
Nauvoo City Council Minute Book, 4 Mar. 1842, 60.
Nauvoo City Council Minute Book / Nauvoo City Council. “A Record of the Proceedings of the City Council of the City of Nauvoo Handcock County, State of Illinois, Commencing A.D. 1841,” ca. 1841–1845. CHL. MS 3435.
- 49
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50
Woodruff, Journal, 27 Mar. 1842.
Woodruff, Wilford. Journals, 1833–1898. Wilford Woodruff, Journals and Papers, 1828–1898. CHL. MS 1352. Also available as Wilford Woodruff’s Journals, 1833–1898, edited by Scott G. Kenney, 9 vols. (Midvale, UT: Signature Books, 1983–1985).
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51
Relief Society Minute Book, 31 Mar. 1842.
Relief Society Minute Book / “A Book of Records Containing the Proceedings of the Female Relief Society of Nauvoo,” Mar. 1842–Mar. 1844. CHL. Also available at josephsmithpapers.org.
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52
Woodruff, Journal, 10 Apr. 1842.
Woodruff, Wilford. Journals, 1833–1898. Wilford Woodruff, Journals and Papers, 1828–1898. CHL. MS 1352. Also available as Wilford Woodruff’s Journals, 1833–1898, edited by Scott G. Kenney, 9 vols. (Midvale, UT: Signature Books, 1983–1985).
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53
Hosea Stout, History of the Nauvoo Legion, Draft 2, p. [4], Nauvoo Legion Records, CHL.
Stout, Hosea. History of the Nauvoo Legion, Draft 2, ca. 1844–1845. Nauvoo Legion Records, 1841–1845. CHL. MS 3430, fd. 10. One of three drafts of the history; includes material dated 4 February 1841 through September 1843. Pages are out of order; in the current order, this draft includes pp. [1]–[4], [13]–[14].
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54
JS, “The Gift of the Holy Ghost,” Times and Seasons, 15 June 1842, 3:823–826.
Times and Seasons. Commerce/Nauvoo, IL. Nov. 1839–Feb. 1846.
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55
Horace Hotchkiss, Fair Haven, CT, to JS, Nauvoo, IL, 27 May 1842, JS Collection, CHL.
Smith, Joseph. Collection, 1827–1846. CHL. MS 155.
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56
Woodruff, Journal, 18 June 1842.
Woodruff, Wilford. Journals, 1833–1898. Wilford Woodruff, Journals and Papers, 1828–1898. CHL. MS 1352. Also available as Wilford Woodruff’s Journals, 1833–1898, edited by Scott G. Kenney, 9 vols. (Midvale, UT: Signature Books, 1983–1985).
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57
Relief Society Minute Book, 26 May 1842.
Relief Society Minute Book / “A Book of Records Containing the Proceedings of the Female Relief Society of Nauvoo,” Mar. 1842–Mar. 1844. CHL. Also available at josephsmithpapers.org.
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58
Relief Society Minute Book, 9 June 1842.
Relief Society Minute Book / “A Book of Records Containing the Proceedings of the Female Relief Society of Nauvoo,” Mar. 1842–Mar. 1844. CHL. Also available at josephsmithpapers.org.
