Chapter XXXII
Remembrance of Canada Saints--Correspondence and Petition Relative to Missouri Affairs.
[Sidenote: Letter to Moses C. Nickerson.]
November 19.--I wrote as follows, from Kirtland, to Moses C. Nickerson, Mount Pleasant, Upper Canada:
Brother Moses:--We arrived at this place on the fourth ultimo, after a fatiguing journey, during which we were blessed with usual health. We parted with Father and Mother Nickerson at Buffalo, in good health, and they expressed a degree of satisfaction for the prosperity and blessings of their journey.
Since our arrival here, Brother Sidney has been afflicted with sore eyes, which is probably the reason why you have not previously heard from us, as he was calculating to write you immediately. But though I expect he will undoubtedly write you soon, as his eyes are evidently better, yet, lest you should be impatient to learn something concerning us, I have thought that perhaps a few lines from me, though there may be a lack of fluency according to the literati of the age, might be received with a degree of satisfaction on your part, at least, when you call to mind the near relation with which we are united by the everlasting ties of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ.
We found our families and the Church in this place well, generally. Nothing of consequence happened while we were absent, except the death of one of our brethren--David Johnson--a young man of great worth as a private citizen among us, the loss of whom we justly mourn.
We were favored with frequent intelligence from different sections of our country, respecting the progress of the Gospel, and our prayers are daily to our Father, that it may greatly spread, even till all nations shall hear the glorious news and come to a knowledge of the truth.
We have received letters from our brethren in Missouri of late, but we cannot tell, from their contents, the probable extent to which those persons who are desirous to expel them from that country will carry their unlawful and unrighteous purposes. Our brethren have applied to the executive of the state, who has promised them all the {442} assistance that the civil law can give; and in all probability a suit has been commenced ere this.
We are informed, however, that those persons are very violent, and threaten immediate extermination upon all those who profess our doctrine. How far they will be suffered to execute their threats, we know not, but we trust in the Lord, and leave the event with Him to govern in his own wise providence.
I shall expect a communication from you on receipt of this, and hope you will give me information concerning the brethren, their health, faith, etc., also inform me concerning our friends with whom we formed acquaintance.
You are aware, no doubt, dear brother, that anxieties inexpressible crowd themselves continually upon my mind for the Saints, when I consider the many temptations to which we are subject, from the cunning and flattery of the great adversary of our souls: and I can truly say, with much fervency have I called upon the Lord for our brethren in Canada. And when I call to mind with what readiness they received the word of truth by the ministry of Brother Sidney and myself, I am truly under great obligations to humble myself before Him.
When I contemplate the rapidity with which the great and glorious day of the coming of the Son of Man advances, when He shall come to receive His Saints unto Himself, where they shall dwell in His presence, and be crowned with glory and immortality; when I consider that soon the heavens are to be shaken, and the earth tremble and reel to and fro; and that the heavens are to be unfolded as a scroll when it is rolled up; and that every mountain and island are to flee away, I cry out in my heart, What manner of persons ought we to be in all holy conversation and godliness!
You remember the testimony which I bore in the name of the Lord Jesus, concerning the great work which He has brought forth in the last days. You know my manner of communication, how that in weakness and simplicity, I declared to you what the Lord had brought forth by the ministering of His holy angels to me for this generation. I pray that the Lord may enable you to treasure these things in your mind, for I know that His Spirit will bear testimony to all who seek diligently after knowledge from Him. I hope you will search the Scriptures to see whether these things are not also consistent with those things which the ancient Prophets and Apostles have written.
I remember Brother Freeman and wife, Ransom also, and Sister Lydia, and little Charles, with all the brethren and sisters. I entreat for an interest in all your prayers before the throne of mercy, in the name of Jesus. I hope the Lord will grant that I may see you all {443} again, and above all that we may overcome, and sit down together in the kingdom of our Father.
Your brother, etc.,
Joseph Smith.
[Sidenote; The Prophet's Reflections.]
Nothing of note occurred from the falling of the stars on the 13th, to this date, November 19th, when my heart is somewhat sorrowful, but I feel to trust in the Lord, the God of Jacob. I have learned in my travels that man is treacherous and selfish, but few excepted.
[Sidenote: Sidney Rigdon.]
Brother Sidney is a man whom I love, but he is not capable of that pure and steadfast love for those who are his benefactors that should characterize a President of the Church of Christ. This, with some other little things, such as selfishness and independence of mind, which too often manifested destroy the confidence of those who would lay down their lives for him--these are his faults. But notwithstanding these things, he is a very great and good man; a man of great power of words, and can gain the friendship of his hearers very quickly. He is a man whom God will uphold, if he will continue faithful to his calling. O God, grant that he may, for the Lord's sake. Amen.
[Sidenote: A Prophecy.]
And again, blessed be Brother Sidney: notwithstanding he shall be high and lifted up, yet he shall bow down under the yoke like unto an ass that Croucheth beneath his burthen, that learneth his master's will by the stroke of the rod; thus saith the Lord: yet, the Lord will have mercy on him, and he shall bring forth much fruit, even as the vine of the choice grape, when her clusters are ripe, before the time of the gleaning of the vintage; and the Lord shall make his heart merry as with sweet wine, because of Him who putteth forth His hand, and lifteth him up out of deep mire, and pointeth him out the way, and guideth his feet when he stumbles, and humbleth him in his pride. Blessed are his generations: nevertheless one shall hunt after them as a man {444} hunteth after an ass that has strayed in the wilderness, and straightway findeth him and bringeth him into the fold. Thus shall the Lord watch over his generation, that they may be saved. Even so. Amen.
[Sidenote: The Prophet's Maxims.]
The man who willeth to do well, we should extol his virtues, and speak not of his faults behind his back. A man who wilfully turneth away from his friend without a cause, is not easily forgiven. The kindness of a man should never be forgotten. That person who never forsaketh his trust, should ever have the highest place of regard in our hearts, and our love should never fail, but increase more and more, and this is my disposition and these my sentiments.
[Sidenote: Frederick G. Williams.]
Brother Frederick G. Williams is one of those men in whom I place the greatest confidence and trust, for I have found him ever full of love and brotherly kindness. He is not a man of many words, but is ever winning, because of his constant mind. He shall ever have place in my heart, and is ever entitled to my confidence. He is perfectly honest and upright, and seeks with all his heart to magnify his Presidency in the Church of Christ, but fails in many instances, in consequence of a want of confidence in himself. God grant that he may overcome all evil. Blessed be Brother Frederick, for he shall never want a friend, and his generation after him shall flourish. The Lord hath appointed him an inheritance upon the land of Zion: yea, and his head shall blossom, and he shall be as an olive branch that is bowed down with fruit. Even so. Amen.
[Sidenote: Attorney-General's Letter to the Exiles' Counsel.]
The following is a copy of a letter from the Attorney-General of Missouri to the counsel employed by the Church to prosecute the mob in Jackson county:
City of Jefferson,
November 21, 1833.
Messrs. Doniphan and Atchison:
Gentlemen: From conversation I have had with the Governor, I {445} believe I am warranted in saying to you, and through you to the Mormons, that if they desire to be replaced in possession of their property, that is, their houses in Jackson county, an adequate force will be sent forthwith to effect that object. Perhaps a direct application had better be made to him for that purpose, if they wish thus to be re-possessed. The militia have been ordered to hold themselves in readiness.
If the Mormons will organize themselves into regular companies, or a regular company of militia, either volunteers or otherwise, they will, I have no doubt, be supplied with public arms. This must be upon application therefor. A volunteer company must be accepted by the Colonel, and that is a matter in his discretion. Perhaps the best way would be to organize and elect officers as is done in ordinary cases--not volunteers; you could give them the necessary directions on these points. If the Colonel should refuse to order an election of company officers, after they have reported themselves to him for that purpose, he would, I presume, be court-martialed, on representation to the Governor of the facts. As only a certain quantity of public arms can be distributed in each county, those who first apply will be most likely to receive them. The less, therefore, that is said upon the subject the better.
I am, with great respect, your obedient servant,
(Signed) R. W. Wells.
[Sidenote: Judge Ryland's Letter to Amos Reese.]
Again, Judge Ryland wrote Amos Reese, Esq., Circuit Attorney, also of counsel for the exiled Saints, as follows:
New Lexington,
November 24, 1833.
Dear Sir:--I have been requested by the Governor, to inform him about the outrageous acts of unparalleled violence that have lately happened in Jackson county, and have also been requested to examine into these outrages, and take steps to punish the guilty and screen the innocent.
I cannot proceed unless some person shall be willing to make the proper information before me. I now request you to inform me whether the "Mormons" are willing to take legal steps against the citizens of Jackson county; whether they wish to return there or not; and let me know all the matters connected with this unhappy affair. It will be necessary for you to see the persons injured, and be informed of their desires and intentions. The military force will repair to Jackson county, to aid the execution of any order I make on this subject. Be particular in your information to me. I am willing to go any time to {446} Jackson county, for the purpose of holding a court of inquiry, and binding over to keep the peace such persons as I shall think ought to be restrained.
It is a disgrace to the state for such acts to happen within its limits, and the disgrace will attach to our official characters, if we neglect to take proper means to insure the punishment due such offenders.
I wish to know whether Joshua Lewis and Hyrum Page handed the writ to the sheriff of Jackson county, that I made and issued on their affidavit, against some of the ringleaders of the mob in Jackson county, dated the sixth of this month.
I will know why he refused to execute the writ, if it ever came to his hands. Inquire into this subject and let me know. I should be glad to see you, and agree upon what course to take. After you have sufficiently informed yourself, come down and see me. As you live near the scene of these outrages, you are better able to receive all information necessary, and prepare for future action, than I am.
Write me as soon as you are properly informed, and state when you can come down and see me on this business. Keep copies of all the letters you write on this subject.
Your friend,
(Signed) John F. Ryland.
November 22.--My brother Don Carlos came to live with me and learn the art of printing.
[Sidenote: Hyde and Gould Return to Kirtland.]
Elders Orson Hyde and John Gould returned from Missouri to Kirtland on the 25th, and brought the melancholy intelligence of the mob in Jackson county persecuting the brethren.
Elder A. S. Gilbert wrote the Governor of Missouri as follows:
(Confidential.)
Liberty, Clay County,
November 29, 1833.
Dear Sir:--Yesterday I saw Mr. Doniphan, an attorney of this place, who informed me that he saw the Attorney-General, Mr. Wells, in Saline county, last Saturday week, and that Mr. Wells had acquainted him with your intention of ordering a court of inquiry to be held in Jackson county, in relation to the late riotous proceedings in that county. Mr. Doniphan is of opinion, from the conversation he had with Mr. Wells, that said order will be suspended till a communication is received from our people, or their counsel. This is therefore to acquaint your Excellency, that most of the heads of our Church had an {447} interview yesterday on the subject of an immediate court of inquiry, to be held in Jackson county; and by their request to me, I hasten to lay before your Excellency serious difficulties attending our people on an immediate court of inquiry being called.
Our Church is at this time scattered in every direction: some in the new county of Van Buren; a part in this county; and a part in Lafayette, and Ray. Some of our principal witnesses would be women and children, and while the rage of the mob continues, it would be impossible to gather them in safety at Independence. That your Excellency may know of the unabating fury with which the last remnant of our people remaining in that county are pursued at this time, I here state that a few families, perhaps fifteen or twenty, who settled themselves more than two years ago on the prairie, about fifteen miles from the county seat of Jackson county, had hoped from the obscurity of their location that they might escape the vengeance of the enemy through the winter; consequently they remained on their plantations, receiving occasionally, a few individual threats, till last Sunday, when a mob made their appearance among them; some with pistols cocked, and presented to their breasts, commanded them to leave the county in three days, or they would tear their houses down over their heads, etc., etc.
Two expresses arrived here from said neighborhood last Monday morning, for advice, and counsel advised their speedy removal for the preservation of life and their personal effects. I suppose these families will be out of the county of Jackson this week. In this distressed situation, in behalf of my brethren, I pray your Excellency to await a further communication, which will soon follow this, setting forth among other things the importance of our people being restored to their possessions, that they may have an equal chance with their enemies in producing important testimony before the court, which the enemy are now determined to deprive them of. I trust that your Excellency will perceive the agitation and consternation that must necessarily prevail among most of our people at this day, from the unparalleled usage they have received, and many of them wandering at this time destitute of shelter.
An immediate court of inquiry called while our people are thus situated, would give our enemies a decided advantage in point of testimony, while they are in possession of their own homes, and ours also; with no enemy in the county to molest or make them afraid.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
A. S. Gilbert.
To his Excellency Daniel Dunklin, Jefferson City, Mo.
I have seen and read the above letter, and on reflection, I concur {448} entirely in the opinion therein expressed. I also think that at the next regular term of the court, an examination of the criminal matter cannot be gone into, without a guard for the court and witnesses.
(Signed) Amos Reese.
[Sidenote: Remnants Scattered.]
Those who were threatened by the mob on Sunday, the 24th, fled into Clay county, and encamped on the banks of the Missouri river. A number of the families went into Van Buren county: their whole number of men, women, and children, being upwards of one hundred and fifty.
[Sidenote: New Church Press.]
About the 1st of December, Elder Cowdery and Bishop Whitney arrived at Kirtland with a new press and type, and on the 4th commenced distributing the type.
December 5.--I wrote to Bishop Partridge, Liberty, Clay county, Missouri, as follows:
Kirtland, December 5, 1833.
Dear Brethren:--We have just received a letter from Brother Phelps, dated 6th and 7th November, at Liberty, which gives us the painful intelligence of the rage of the enemy, and your present unsettled situation. But I must inform you that there is a great dubiety resting upon our minds, with regard to the true state of affairs of Zion; for there seems to be some difference in the statements of Elder Phelps' letter, and that of Elder Hyde's communication to the editors of the Missouri Republican. [1] Elder Hyde states that "on Monday, the 4th, the mob collected in Independence, to the number of two or three hundred, well armed; that a part of their number went above Blue, to drive away our people, and destroy our property; but they were met by a party of our people, who, being prepared, poured a deadly fire upon them; two of their number fell dead on the ground, and a number were mortally wounded, among the former was Brazeale.
"Tuesday morning there were a number of the mob missing, and could not be accounted for; and while we were at Liberty landing, on Wednesday, a messenger rode up, saying that he had just come from {449} the seat of war, and that the night before, another battle was fought, in which Mr. Hicks fell, having three balls and some buck-shot through his body, and about twenty more shared a similar fate; and also, that one or two of our men were killed, and as many wounded; and he (Hyde) heard the cannonading distinctly; and also, stated that the man who broke open the store, took Gilbert, Phelps, and one more, for false imprisonment, and put them in prison, and as near as he could learn, never to let them escape alive."
This statement of Elder Hyde is somewhat different from that of Elder Phelps, who states that "on Friday night the brethren had mustered about forty or fifty men, armed, and marched into the village, took one prisoner and fired one gun (through mistake); and on Saturday the mob fell upon our brethren above Blue, and one of Manship's sons was mortally wounded. On Monday a regular action was fought near Christian Whitmer's, under the command of Elder David Whitmer. We had four wounded; they had five wounded and two killed, viz.: Linvill and Brazeale. From Friday till Tuesday, our brethren were under arms, when one hundred and fifty of them came forth, like Moroni, to battle. On Tuesday morning the mob had collected to the number of three hundred, and before any blood was shed, we agreed to go away immediately, and the enemy took our guns."
Elder Phelps also states that "since the above was written (viz.: on the 6th), another horrid scene has transpired: after our people surrendered their arms, a party of the mob went above Blue, and began to whip, and even murder; and the brethren have been driven into the woods, and are fleeing to the ferry; and also the mob have hired the ferrymen to carry them across the river (but they made the brethren pay the ferryage); and it was reported that the mob had killed two more of the brethren."
It appears, brethren, that the above statements were made mostly from reports, and there is no certainty of their being correct; therefore, it is difficult for us to advise, and we can only say, that the destinies of all people are in the hands of a just God, and He will do no injustice to any one; and this one thing is sure, that they who will live godly in Christ Jesus, shall suffer persecution; and before their robes are made white in the blood of the Lamb, it is to be expected, according to John the Revelator, they will pass through great tribulation.
I wish, when you receive this letter, that you would collect every particular, concerning the mob, from the beginning, and send us a correct statement of facts, as they occurred from time to time, that we may be enabled to give the public correct information on the subject, and inform us also of the situation of the brethren, with respect to their means of sustenance.
{450} I would inform you, that it is not the will of the Lord for you to sell your lands in Zion, if means can possibly be procured for your sustenance without. Every exertion should be made to maintain the cause you have espoused, and to contribute to the necessities of one another, as much as possible, in this your great calamity, and remember not to murmur at the dealings of God with His creatures. You are not as yet brought into as trying circumstances as were the ancient Prophets and Apostles. Call to mind a Daniel, the three Hebrew children, Jeremiah, Paul, Stephen, and many others, too numerous to mention, who were stoned, sawn asunder, tempted, slain with the sword, and wandered about in sheep skins and goat skins, being destitute, afflicted, tormented, of whom the world was not worthy. They wandered in deserts and in mountains, and hid in dens and caves of the earth; yet they all obtained a good report through faith; and amidst all their afflictions they rejoiced that they were counted worthy to receive persecutions for Christ's sake.
We know not what we shall be called to pass through before Zion is delivered and established; therefore, we have great need to live near to God, and always to be in strict obedience to all His commandments, that we may have a conscience void of offense toward God and man. It is your privilege to use every lawful means in your power to seek redress for your grievances from your enemies, and prosecute them to the extent of the law; but it will be impossible for us to render you any temporal assistance, as our means are already exhausted, and we are deeply in debt, and know of no means whereby we shall be able to extricate ourselves.
The inhabitants of this county threaten our destruction, and we know not how soon they may be permitted to follow the example of the Missourians; but our trust is in God, and we are determined, His grace assisting us, to maintain the cause and hold out faithful unto the end, that we may be crowned with crowns of celestial glory, and enter into the rest that is prepared for the children of God.
We are now distributing the type, and intend to commence setting today, and issue a paper the last of this week, or beginning of next. We wrote to Elder Phelps some time since, and also sent by Elder Hyde, for the list of names of subscribers to the Star, which we have not yet received, and, until we receive it, the most of the subscribers will be deprived of the paper; and when you receive this, if you have not sent the list, I wish you to attend to it immediately, as much inconvenience will follow a delay.
We expect shortly to publish a political paper, weekly, in favor of the present administration; the influential men of that party have offered a liberal patronage to us, and we hope to succeed, for thereby we can {451} show the public the purity of our intention in supporting the government under which we live.
We learn by Elder Phelps, that the brethren have surrendered their arms to the Missourians and are fleeing across the river. If that is the case, it is not meet that they should recommence hostilities with them; but if not, you should maintain the ground as long as there is a man left, as the spot of ground upon which you are located, is the place appointed of the Lord for your inheritance, and it is right in the sight of God that you contend for it to the last.
You will recollect that the Lord has said, that Zion should not be removed out of her place; therefore the land should not be sold, but be held by the Saints, until the Lord in His wisdom shall open a way for your return; and until that time, if you can purchase a tract of land in Clay county for present emergencies, it is right you should do so, if you can do it, and not sell your land in Jackson county. It is not safe for us to send you a written revelation on the subject, but what is stated above is according to wisdom. I haste to a close to give room for Brother Oliver, and remain yours in the bonds of the everlasting covenant,
Joseph Smith, Jun.
[Sidenote: Dedication of the New Press.]
December 6.--Being prepared to commence our labors in the printing business, I ask God in the name of Jesus, to establish it for ever, and cause that His work may speedily go forth to the nations of the earth, to the accomplishing of His great work in bringing about the restoration of the house of Israel.
This day, also, the Elders in Missouri sent the following petition
To his Excellency, Daniel Dunklin, Governor of the State of Missouri:
We, the undersigned leading members of the Church of Christ, vulgarly called "Mormons," would respectfully represent to your Excellency--in addition to the petition presented to you by Messrs. Phelps and Hyde, and the affidavit of Messrs. Phelps, Gilbert, and M'Lellin, after having read also the letters of the Attorney-General and District Judge of this circuit to Mr. Reese--that whereas, our society, men, women, and children, after having been in some cases wounded, scourged, and threatened with death, have been driven by force of arms from their lands, houses, and much of their property in Jackson county--most of which lands, houses, and property, have been possessed by the mob of Jackson county, or others, and are now {452} unlawfully detained from the use and possession of our people; that whereas our people have been driven and scattered into the counties of Clay, Ray, Van Buren, Lafayette, and others, where, in many cases, they are destitute of the common necessaries of life, even in this winter season; that whereas, the guns which were taken from our people, as set forth in the affidavit, are kept from them; therefore, in behalf of our society, which is so scattered and suffering, we, your petitioners, ask aid and assistance of your Excellency, that we may be restored to our lands, and houses, property, and protected in them by the militia of the state, if legal, or by a detachment of the United States Rangers, which might be located at Independence, instead of at Cantonment Leavenworth, till peace can be restored. This could be done, probably, by conferring with the President, or perhaps with Colonel Dodge. Also, we ask that our men may be organized into companies of Jackson Guards, and be furnished with arms by the state, to assist in maintaining their rights against the unhallowed power of the mob of Jackson county.
And then, when arrangements are made to protect us in our persons and property (which cannot be done without an armed force, nor would it be prudent to risk our lives there without guards, till we receive strength from our friends to protect ourselves), we wish a court of inquiry instituted, to investigate the whole matter of the mob against the "Mormons:" and we will ever pray.
W. W. Phelps,
John Whitmer,
John Corrill,
Isaac Morley,
Edward Partridge,
A. S. Gilbert.
The following letter accompanied the foregoing petition:
Liberty, December 6, 1833.
Dear Sir:--Your Excellency will perceive by the petition, bearing date with this letter, that we intend to return to Jackson county as soon as arrangements can be made to protect us after we are reinstated in our possessions.
We do not wish to go till we know that our lives are not in danger from a lawless mob. Your Excellency will understand that at this inclement season it will require time to restore us, and troops to protect us after we are there, for the threats of the mob have not ceased.
Your obedient servant,
W. W. Phelps.
To Daniel Dunklin, Governor of Missouri.
Footnotes
1. The slight discrepancies which the Prophet notes between the report of Elder Hyde and the communications of W. W. Phelps lie chiefly from the inaccuracy of the reports current at that time. It will be seen that they are not very important, but doubtless on account of the anxiety of the Prophet and brethren at Kirtland, seemed so at the time, and at any rate were somewhat confusing.
{453}
Chapter XXXIII
The Prophet's Sympathy for the Exiled Saints--Reasons for Their Expulsion from Zion.
A Letter from the Prophet Joseph Smith to the Exiled Saints in Missouri. [1]
Kirtland Mills, Ohio,
December 10, 1833.
Edward Partridge, W. W. Phelps, John Whitmer, A. S. Gilbert, John Corrill, Isaac Morley, and all the Saints whom it may concern.
Beloved Brethren:--This morning's mail brought letters from Bishop Partridge, and Elders Corrill and Phelps, all mailed at Liberty, November 19th, which gave us the melancholy intelligence of your flight from the land of your inheritance, having been driven before the face of your enemies in that place.
From previous letters we learned that a number of our brethren had been slain, but we could not learn from the letters referred to above, that there had been more than one killed, and that one Brother Barber, and that Brother Dibble was wounded in the bowels. We were thankful to learn that no more had been slain, and our daily prayers are that the Lord will not suffer His Saints, who have gone up to His land to keep His commandments, to stain His holy mountain with their blood.
I cannot learn from any communication by the Spirit to me, that Zion has forfeited her claim to a celestial crown, notwithstanding the Lord has caused her to be thus afflicted, except it may be some individuals, who have walked in disobedience, and forsaken the new covenant; all such will be made manifest by their works in due time. I have always expected that Zion would suffer some affliction, from what I could learn from the commandments which have been given. But I would remind you of a certain clause in one which says, that after much tribulation cometh the blessing. [2] By this, and also others, and also one received of late, I know that Zion, in the due time of the Lord, {454} will be redeemed; but how many will be the days of her purification, tribulation, and affliction, the Lord has kept hid from my eyes; and when I inquire concerning this subject, the voice of the Lord is: Be still, and know that I am God! all those who suffer for my name shall reign with me, and he that layeth down his life for my sake shall find it again.
Now, there are two things of which I am ignorant; and the Lord will not show them unto me, perhaps for a wise purpose in Himself--I mean in some respects--and they are these: Why God has suffered so great a calamity to come upon Zion, and what the great moving cause of this great affliction is; and again, by what means He will return her back to her inheritance, with songs of everlasting joy upon her head. These two things, brethren, are in part kept back that they are not plainly shown unto me; but there are some things that are plainly manifest which have incurred the displeasure of the Almighty. When I contemplate upon all things that have been manifested, I am aware that I ought not to murmur, and do not murmur, only in this, that those who are innocent are compelled to suffer for the iniquities of the guilty; and I cannot account for this, only on this wise, that the saying of the Savior has not been strictly observed: "If thy right eye offend thee, pluck it out, and cast it from thee; or if thy right arm offend thee, cut it off, and cast it from thee." Now the fact is, if any of the members of our body is disordered, the rest of our body will be affected with it, and then all are brought into bondage together; and yet, notwithstanding all this, it is with difficulty that I can restrain my feelings when I know that you, my brethren, with whom I have had so many happy hours--sitting, as it were, in heavenly places in Christ Jesus; and also, having the witness which I feel, and ever have felt, of the purity of your motives--are cast out, and are as strangers and pilgrims on the earth, exposed to hunger, cold, nakedness, peril, sword--I say when I contemplate this, it is with difficulty I can keep from complaining and murmuring against this dispensation; but I am sensible that this is not right, and may God grant that notwithstanding your great afflictions and sufferings, there may not anything separate us from love of Christ.
Brethren, when we learn your sufferings, it awakens every sympathy of our hearts; it weighs us down; we cannot refrain from tears, yet, we are not able to realize, only in part, your sufferings: and I often hear the brethren saying, they wish they were with you, that they might bear a part of your sufferings; and I myself should have been with you, had not God prevented it in the order of His providence, that the yoke of affliction might be less grievous upon you, God having forewarned me, concerning these things, for your sake; and also, Elder {455} Cowdery could not lighten your afflictions by tarrying longer with you, for his presence would have so much the more enraged your enemies; therefore God hath dealt mercifully with us. O brethren, let us be thankful that it is as well with us as it is, and we are yet alive and peradventure, God hath laid up in store great good for us in this generation, and may grant that we may yet glorify His name.
I feel thankful that there have no more denied the faith; I pray God in the name of Jesus that you all may be kept in the faith unto the end; let your sufferings be what they may, it is better in the eyes of God that you should die, than that you should give up the land of Zion, the inheritances which you have purchased with your moneys; for every man that giveth not up his inheritance, though he should die, yet, when the Lord shall come, he shall stand upon it, and with Job, in his flesh he shall see God. Therefore, this is my counsel, that you retain your lands, even unto the uttermost, and employ every lawful means to seek redress of your enemies; and pray to God, day and night, to return you in peace and in safety to the lands of your inheritance: and when the judge fail you, appeal unto the executive; and when the executive fail you, appeal unto the president; and when the president fail you, and all laws fail you, and the humanity of the people fail you, and all things else fail you but God alone, and you continue to weary Him with your importunings, as the poor woman did the unjust judge, He will not fail to execute judgment upon your enemies, and to avenge His own elect that cry unto Him day and night.
Behold, He will not fail you! He will come with ten thousand of His Saints, and all His adversaries shall be destroyed with the breath of His lips! All those who keep their inheritances, notwithstanding they should be beaten and driven, shall be likened unto the wise virgins who took oil in their lamps. But all those who are unbelieving and fearful, will be likened unto the foolish virgins, who took no oil in their lamps: and when they shall return and say unto the Saints, Give us of your lands--behold, there will be no room found for them. As respects giving deeds, I would advise you to give deeds as far as the brethren have legal and just claims for them, and then let every man answer to God for the disposal of them.
I would suggest some ideas to Elder Phelps, not knowing that they will be of any real benefit, but suggest them for consideration. I would be glad if he were here, were it possible for him to come, but dare not advise, not knowing what shall befall us, as we are under very heavy and serious threatenings from a great many people in this place.
But, perhaps, the people in Liberty may feel willing, God having power to soften the hearts of all men, to have a press established there; and if not, in some other place; any place where it can be the most {456} convenient, and it is possible to get to it; God will be willing to have it in any place where it can be established in safety. We must be wise as serpents and harmless as doves. Again, I desire that Elder Phelps should collect all the information, and give us a true history of the beginning and rise of Zion, and her calamities.
Now hear the prayer of your unworthy brother in the new and everlasting covenant:--O My God! Thou who hast called and chosen a few, through Thy weak instrument, by commandment, and sent them to Missouri, a place which Thou didst call Zion, and commanded Thy servants to consecrate it unto Thyself for a place of refuge and safety for the gathering of Thy Saints, to be built up a holy city unto Thyself; and as Thou hast said that no other place should be appointed like unto this, therefore, I ask Thee in the name of Jesus Christ, to return Thy people unto their houses and their inheritances, to enjoy the fruit of their labors; that all the waste places may be built up; that all the enemies of Thy people, who will not repent and turn unto Thee may be destroyed from off the face of the land; and let a house be built and established unto Thy name; and let all the losses that Thy people have sustained, be rewarded unto them, even more than four-fold, that the borders of Zion may be enlarged forever; and let her be established no more to be thrown down; and let all thy Saints, when they are scattered, as sheep, and are persecuted, flee unto Zion, and be established in the midst of her; and let her be organized according to Thy law; and let this prayer ever be recorded before Thy face. Give Thy Holy Spirit unto my brethren, unto whom I write; send Thine angels to guard them, and deliver them from all evil; and when they turn their faces toward Zion, and bow down before Thee and pray, may their sins never come up before Thy face, neither have place in the book of Thy remembrance; and may they depart from all their iniquities. Provide food for them as Thou doest for the ravens; provide clothing to cover their nakedness, and houses that they may dwell therein; give unto them friends in abundance, and let their names be recorded in the Lamb's book of life, eternally before Thy face. Amen.
Finally, brethren, the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you all until His coming in His kingdom. Amen.
Joseph Smith, Jun.
[Sidenote: Expulsion of Saints from Van Buren County.]
December 12.--An express arrived at Liberty, from Van Buren county, with information that those families, which had fled from Jackson county, and located there, were about to be driven from that county, after building their houses and carting {457} their winter's store of provisions, grain, etc., forty or fifty miles. Several families are already fleeing from thence. The contaminating influence of the Jackson county mob, is predominant in this new county of Van Buren, the whole population of which is estimated at about thirty or forty families. The destruction of crops, household furniture, and clothing, is very great, and much of their stock is lost. The main body of the Church is now in Clay county, where the people are as kind and accommodating as could reasonably be expected. The continued threats of deaths to individuals of the Church, if they make their appearance in Jackson County, prevent the most of them, even at this day, from returning to that county, to secure personal property, which they were obliged to leave in their flight.
[Sidenote: Sad Condition of the Saints.]
The following is an extract of a letter to me, from Elder Phelps, dated--
Clay County, Missouri.
December 15, 1833.
The condition of the scattered Saints is lamentable, and affords a gloomy prospect. No regular order can be enforced, nor any usual discipline kept up; among the world, yea, the most wicked part of it, some commit one sin, and some another (I speak of the rebellious, for there are Saints that are as immovable as the everlasting hills), and what can be done? We are in Clay, Ray, Lafayette, Jackson, Van Buren and other counties, and cannot hear from one another oftener than we do from you. I know it was right that we should be driven out of the land of Zion, that the rebellious might be sent away. But, brethren, if the Lord will, I should like to know what the honest in heart shall do? Our clothes are worn out; we want the necessaries of life, and shall we lease, buy, or otherwise obtain land where we are, to till, that we may raise enough to eat? Such is the common language of the honest, for they want to do the will of God. I am sensible that we shall not be able to live again in Zion, till God or the President rules out the mob.
The Governor is willing to restore us, but as the constitution gives him no power to guard us when back, we are not willing to go. The mob swear if we come we shall die! If, from what has been done in Zion, we, or the most of us, have got to be persecuted from city to city, {458} and from synagogue to synagogue, we want to know it; for there are those among us that would rather earn eternal life on such conditions than lose it; but we hope for better things, and shall wait patiently for the word of the Lord.
Our people fare very well, and when they are discreet, little or no persecution is felt. The militia in the upper counties is in readiness at a moment's warning, having been ordered out by the Governor, to guard a court martial and court of inquiry; but we cannot attend a court of inquiry, on account of expense, till we are restored and protected.
(Signed) W. W. Phelps.
December 16.--I received the following:
Revelation. [3]
1. Verily I say unto you, concerning your brethren who have been afflicted, and persecuted, and cast out from the land of their inheritance,
2. I, the Lord, have suffered the affliction to come upon them, wherewith they have been afflicted, in consequence of their transgressions;
3. Yet I will own them, and they shall be mine in that day when I shall come to make up my jewels.
4. Therefore, they must needs be chastened and tried, even as Abraham, who was commanded to offer up his only son;
5. For all those who will not endure chastening but deny me, cannot be sanctified.
6. Behold, I say unto you, there were jarrings, and contentions, and envyings, and strifes, and lustful and covetous desires among them; therefore by these things they polluted their inheritances.
7. They were slow to hearken unto the voice of the Lord their God, therefore the Lord their God is slow to hearken unto their prayers, to answer them in the day of their trouble.
8. In the day of their peace they esteemed lightly my counsel; but, in the day of their trouble, of necessity they feel after me.
9. Verily I say unto you, notwithstanding their sins, my bowels are filled with compassion towards them: I will not utterly cast them off; and in the day of wrath I will remember mercy.
10. I have sworn, and the decree hath gone forth by a former commandment which I have given unto you, that I would let fall the sword of mine indignation in behalf of my people; and even as I have said, it shall come to pass.
{459} 11. Mine indignation is soon to be poured out without measure upon all nations, and this will I do when the cup of their iniquity is full.
12. And in that day all who are found upon the watch tower, or in other words, all mine Israel, shall be saved.
13. And they that have been scattered shall be gathered;
14. And all they who have mourned shall be comforted;
15. And all they who have given their lives for my name shall be crowned.
16. Therefore let your hearts be comforted concerning Zion; for all flesh is in mine hands; be still and know that I am God.
17. Zion shall not be moved out of her place, notwithstanding her children are scattered;
18. They that remain, and are pure in heart, shall return, and come to their inheritances, they and their children, with songs of everlasting joy, to build up the waste places of Zion;
19. And all these things that the prophets might be fulfilled.
20. And, behold, there is none other place appointed than that which I have appointed; neither shall there be any other place appointed than that which I have appointed, for the work of the gathering of my Saints,
21. Until the day cometh when there is found no more room for them; and then I have other places which I will appoint unto them, and they shall be called Stakes, for the curtains or the strength of Zion.
22. Behold, it is my will, that all they who call on my name, and worship me according to mine everlasting Gospel, should gather together and stand in holy places,
23. And prepare for the revelation which is to come, when the veil of the covering of my temple, in my tabernacle, which hideth the earth, shall be taken off, and all flesh shall see me together.
24. And every corruptible thing, both of man, or of the beasts of the field, or of the fowls of the heavens, or of the fish of the sea, that dwells upon all the face of the earth, shall be consumed;
25. And also that of element shall melt with fervent heat; and all things shall become new, that my knowledge and glory may dwell upon all the earth.
26. And in that day the enmity of man, and the enmity of beasts, yea, the enmity of all flesh, shall cease from before my face.
27. And in that day whatsoever any man shall ask, it shall be given unto him.
28. And in that day Satan shall not have power to tempt any man.
29. And there shall be no sorrow because there is no death.
30. In that day an infant shall not die until he is old, and his life shall be as the age of a tree.
{460} 31. And when he dies he shall not sleep (that is to say in the earth), but shall be changed in the twinkling of an eye, and shall be caught up, and his rest shall be glorious:
32. Yea, verily I say unto you, in that day when the Lord shall come, He shall reveal all things--
33. Things which have passed, and hidden things which no man knew--things of the earth, by which it was made, and the purpose and the end thereof--
34. Things most precious--things that are above, and things that are beneath--things that are in the earth, and upon the earth, and in heaven.
35. And all they who suffer persecution for my name, and endure in faith, though they are called to lay down their lives for my sake, yet shall they partake of all this glory.
36. Wherefore, fear not even unto death; for in this world your joy is not full, but in me your joy is full.
37. Therefore, care not for the body, neither the life of the body; but care for the soul, and for the life of the soul;
38. And seek the face of the Lord always, that in patience ye may possess your souls, and ye shall have eternal life.
39. When men are called unto mine everlasting Gospel, and covenant with an everlasting covenant, they are accounted as the salt of the earth, and the savor of men;
40. They are called to be the savor of men. Therefore, if that salt of the earth lose its savor, behold, it is thenceforth good for nothing, only to be cast out, and trodden under the feet of men.
41. Behold, here is wisdom concerning the children of Zion, even many, but not all; they were found transgressors, therefore they must needs be chastened.
42. He that exalteth himself shall be abased, and he that abaseth himself shall be exalted.
43. And now, I will show unto you a parable, that you may know my will concerning the redemption of Zion.
44. A certain nobleman had a spot of land, very choice; and he said unto his servants, Go ye unto my vineyard, even upon this very choice piece of land, and plant twelve olive trees,
45. And set watchmen round about them, and build a tower, that one may overlook the land round about, to be a watchman upon the tower, that mine olive trees may not be broken down, when the enemy shall come to spoil and take unto themselves the fruit of my vineyard.
46. Now, the servants of the nobleman went and did as their lord commanded them; and planted the olive trees, and built a hedge round about, and set watchmen, and began to build a tower.
{461} 47. And while they were yet laying the foundation thereof, they began to say among themselves, And what need hath my lord of this tower?
48. And consulted for a long time, saying among themselves, What need hath my lord of this tower, seeing this is a time of peace?
49. Might not this money be given to the exchanges? for there is no need of these things!
50. And while they were at variance one with another they became very slothful, and they hearkened not unto the commandments of their lord,
51. And the enemy came by night, and broke down the hedge, and the servants of the nobleman arose and were affrighted, and fled; and the enemy destroyed their works, and broke down the olive trees.
52. Now behold, the nobleman, the lord of the vineyard, called upon his servants, and said unto them, Why! what is the cause of this great evil?
53. Ought ye not to have done even as I commanded you, and--after ye had planted the vineyard, and built the hedge round about, and set watchmen upon the walls thereof,--built the tower also, and set a watchman upon the tower, and watched for my vineyard, and not have fallen asleep, lest the enemy should come upon you?
54. And behold, the watchman upon the tower would have seen the enemy while he was yet afar off, and then ye could have made ready and kept the enemy from breaking down the hedge thereof, and saved my vineyard from the hands of the destroyer.
55. And the lord of the vineyard said unto one of his servants, Go and gather together the residue of my servants, and take all the strength of mine house, which are my warriors, my young men, and they that are of middle-age also among all my servants, who are the strength of mine house, save those only whom I have appointed to tarry;
56. And go ye straightway unto the land of my vineyard, and redeem my vineyard, for it is mine, I have bought it with money.
57. Therefore, get ye straightway unto my land; break down the walls of mine enemies; throw down their tower, and scatter their watchmen.
58. And inasmuch as they gather together against you, avenge me of mine enemies, that by and by I may come with the residue of mine house, and possess the land.
59. And the servant said unto his lord, When shall these things be?
60. And he said unto his servant: When I will; go ye straightway, and do all things whatsoever I have commanded you;
{462} 61. And this shall be my seal and blessing upon you--a faithful and wise steward in the midst of mine house, a ruler in my kingdom.
62. And his servant went straightway, and did all things whatsoever his lord commanded him, and after many days all things were fulfilled.
63. Again, verily I say unto you, I will show unto you wisdom in me concerning all the churches, inasmuch as they are willing to be guided in a right and proper way for their salvation,
64. That the work of the gathering together of my Saints may continue, that I may build them up unto my name upon holy places; for the time of harvest is come, and my word must needs be fulfilled.
65. Therefore, I must gather together my people, according to the parable of the wheat and the tares, that the wheat may be secured in the garners to possess eternal life, and be crowned with celestial glory when I shall come in the kingdom of my Father, to reward every man according as his work shall be,
66. While the tares shall be bound in bundles, and the their bands made strong, that they may be burned with unquenchable fire.
67. Therefore, a commandment I give unto all the churches, that they shall continue to gather together unto the places which I have appointed;
68. Nevertheless, as I have said unto you in a former commandment, let not your gathering be in haste, nor by flight; but let all things be prepared before you:
69. And in order that all things be prepared before you, observe the commandment which I have given concerning these things,
70. Which saith, or teacheth, to purchase all the lands with money, which can be purchased for money, in the region round about the land which I have appointed to be the land of Zion, for the beginning of the gathering of my Saints;
71. All the land which can be purchased in Jackson county, and the counties round about, and leave the residue in mine hand.
72. Now, verily I say unto you, let all the churches gather together all their monies; let these things be done in their time, but not in haste; and observe to have all things prepared before you.
73. And let honorable men be appointed, even wise men, and send them to purchase these lands;
74. And the churches in the eastern counties; when they are built up, if they will harken unto this counsel, they may buy lands and gather together upon them, and in this way they may establish Zion.
75. There is even now already in store sufficient, yea, even an abundance, to redeem Zion, and establish her waste places, no more to {463} be thrown down, were the churches, who call themselves after my name, willing to hearken to my voice.
76. And again I say unto you, those who have been scattered by their enemies, it is my will that they should continue to importune for redress, and redemption, by the hands of those who are placed as rulers, and are in authority over you,
77. According to the laws and constitution of the people which I have suffered to be established, and should be maintained for the rights and protection of all flesh, according to just and holy principles,
78. That every man may act in doctrine and principle pertaining to futurity, according to the moral agency which I have given unto him, that every man may be accountable for his own sins in the day of judgment.
79. Therefore, it is not right that any man should be in bondage one to another.
80. And for this purpose have I established the constitution of this land, by the hands of wise men whom I raised up unto this very purpose, and redeemed the land by the shedding of blood.
81. Now, unto what shall I liken the children of Zion? I will liken them unto the parable of the woman and the unjust judge (for men ought always to pray and not to faint) which saith,
82. There was in a city a judge which feared not God, neither regarded man.
83. And there was a widow in that city, and she came unto him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary.
84. And he would not for a while, but afterward he said within himself, Though I fear not God, nor regard man, yet because this widow troubleth me I will avenge her, lest, by her continual coming she weary me.
85. Thus will I liken the children of Zion.
86. Let them importune at the feet of the Judge;
87. And if he heed them not, let them importune at the feet of the Governor;
88. And if the Governor heed them not, let them importune at the feet of the President;
89. And if the President heed them not, then will the Lord arise and come forth out of His hiding place, and in His fury vex the nation,
90. And in His hot displeasure, and in His fierce anger, in His time, will cut off those wicked, unfaithful, and unjust stewards, and appoint them their portion among hypocrites, and unbelievers;
91. Even in outer darkness, where there is weeping, and wailing, and gnashing of teeth.
92. Pray ye, therefore, that their ears may be opened unto your {464} cries, that I may be merciful unto them, that these things may not come upon them.
93. What I have said unto you, must needs be, that all men may be left without excuse;
94. That wise men and rulers may hear and know that which they have never considered;
95. That I may proceed to bring to pass my act, my strange act, and perform my work, my strange work, that men may discern between the righteous and the wicked, saith your God.
96. And again, I say unto you, it is contrary to my commandment, and my will that my servant Sidney Gilbert, should sell my storehouse, which I have appointed unto my people, into the hands of mine enemies.
97. Let not that which I have appointed be polluted by mine enemies, by the consent of those who call themselves after my name;
98. For this is a very sore and grievous sin against me, and against my people, in consequence of those things which I have decreed and which are soon to befall the nations.
99. Therefore, it is my will that my people should claim, and hold claim upon that which I have appointed unto them, though they should not be permitted to dwell thereon;
100. Nevertheless, I do not say they shall not dwell thereon; for inasmuch as they bring forth fruit and works meet for my kingdom, they shall dwell thereon;
101. They shall build, and another shall not inherit it; they shall plant vineyards, and they shall eat the fruit thereof. Even so. Amen.
Footnotes
1. This letter was, as will be seen by the text of it, written after the first definite and detailed account of what had taken place in Missouri reached the Prophet's hand. We know of nothing written by him that better manifests the nobility of his soul, or the gentle sympathy of his nature, than this communication.
2. Page 191, verses 3 and 4.
3. Doctrine and Covenants, sec. ci. The revelation explains why the Saints were driven from Zion.
{465}
Chapter XXXIV
A Press Established at Kirtland--Blessings upon the Prophet's Family--Responsibility for Lawless Acts in Missouri.
Dedication of the Printing Press.
December 18.--The Elders assembled in the printing office, and bowed down before the Lord, and I dedicated the printing press, and all that pertained thereunto, to God, which dedication was confirmed by Elder Rigdon, and my brother, Hyrum Smith. We then proceeded to take the first proof sheet of the reprinted Star, [1] edited by Elder Oliver Cowdery.
[Sidenote: Strength and Weakness of Oliver Cowdery.]
Blessed of the Lord is Brother Oliver, nevertheless there are two evils in him that he must needs forsake, or he cannot altogether escape the buffetings of the adversary. If he forsake these evils he shall be forgiven, and shall be made like unto the bow which the Lord hath set in the heavens; he shall be a sign and an ensign unto the nations. Behold, he is blessed of the Lord for his constancy and steadfastness in the work of the Lord; wherefore, he shall be blessed in his generation, and they shall never be cut off, and he shall be helped out of many troubles; and if he keep the commandments, and hearken unto the counsel of the Lord, his rest shall be glorious.
[Sidenote: The Prophet's Blessing upon his Father's House.]
And again, blessed of the Lord is my father, and also {466} my mother, and my brothers and my sisters; for they shall yet find redemption in the house of the Lord, and their offspring shall be a blessing, a joy, and a comfort unto them.
[Sidenote: His Mother.]
Blessed is my mother, for her soul is ever filled with benevolence and philanthropy; and notwithstanding her age, yet she shall receive strength, and shall be comforted in the midst of her house, and she shall have eternal life.
[Sidenote: His Father.]
And blessed is my father, for the hand of the Lord shall be over him, for he shall see the affliction of his children pass away; and when his head is fully ripe, he shall behold himself as an olive tree, whose branches are bowed down with much fruit; he shall also possess a mansion on high.
[Sidenote: His Brother Hyrum.]
Blessed of the Lord is my brother Hyrum, for the integrity of his heart; he shall be girt about with truth, and faithfulness shall be the strength of his loins: from generation to generation he shall be a shaft in the hands of his God to execute judgment upon his enemies; and he shall be hid by the hand of the Lord, that none of his secret parts shall be discovered unto his hurt; his name shall be accounted a blessing among men; and when he is in trouble, and great tribulation hath come upon him, he shall remember the God of Jacob; and he will shield him from the power of Satan; and he shall receive counsel in the house of the Most High, that he may be strengthened in hope, that the goings of his feet may be established for ever.
[Sidenote: His Brother Samuel.]
Blessed of the Lord is my brother Samuel, because the Lord shall say unto him, Samuel, Samuel; therefore he shall be made a teacher in the house of the Lord, and the Lord shall mature his mind in judgment, and thereby he shall obtain the esteem and fellowship of his brethren, and his soul shall be established and he shall benefit the house of the Lord, because he shall obtain answer to prayer in his faithfulness.
{467} [Sidenote: Prophecy on the Head of his Brother William.]
Brother William is as the fierce lion, which divideth not the spoil because of his strength; and in the pride of his heart he will neglect the more weighty matters until his soul is bowed down in sorrow; and then he shall return and call on the name of his God, and shall find forgiveness, and shall wax valiant, therefore, he shall be saved unto the uttermost; and as the roaring lion of the forest in the midst of his prey, so shall the hand of his generation be lifted up against those who are set on high, that fight against the God of Israel; fearless and undaunted shall they be in battle, in avenging the wrongs of the innocent, and relieving the oppressed; therefore, the blessings of the God of Jacob shall be in the midst of his house, notwithstanding his rebellious heart.
[Sidenote: A Prayer.]
And now, O God, let the residue of my father's house ever come up in remembrance before Thee, that Thou mayest save them from the hand of the oppressor, and establish their feet upon the Rock of Ages, that they may have place in Thy house, and be saved in Thy kingdom; and let all things be even as I have said, for Christ's sake. Amen.
[Sidenote: Messengers to Zion.]
December 19.--William Pratt and David Patten took their journey to the land of Zion, for the purpose of bearing dispatches to the brethren in that place, from Kirtland, O may God grant that they may be a blessing to Zion, as kind angels from heaven. Amen.
The following circular was published in the December number of the Star:
The Elders in Kirtland to Their Brethren Abroad.
Dear Brethren in Christ, and Companions in Tribulation:--It seemeth good unto us to drop a few lines to you, giving you some instruction relative to conducting the affairs of the kingdom of God, which has been committed unto us in these latter times, by the will and testament of our Mediator, whose intercessions in our behalf are lodged in the {468} bosom of the Eternal Father, and ere long will burst with blessings upon the heads of all the faithful.
We have all been children, and are too much so at the present time; but we hope in the Lord that we may grow in grace and be prepared for all things which the bosom of futurity may disclose unto us. Time is rapidly rolling on, and the prophecies must be fulfilled. The days of tribulation are fast approaching, and the time to test the fidelity of the Saints has come. Rumor with her ten thousand tongues is diffusing her uncertain sounds in almost every ear; but in these times of sore trial, let the Saints be patient and see the salvation of God. Those who cannot endure persecution, and stand in the day of affliction, cannot stand in the day when the Son of God shall burst the veil, and appear in all the glory of His Father, with all the holy angels.
On the subject of ordination, a few words are necessary. In many instances there has been too much haste in this thing, and the admonition of Paul has been too slightingly passed over, which says, "Lay hands suddenly upon no man." Some have been ordained to the ministry, and have never acted in that capacity, or magnified their calling at all. Such may expect to lose their appointment, except they awake and magnify their office. Let the Elders abroad be exceedingly careful upon this subject, and when they ordain a man to the holy ministry, let him be a faithful man, who is able to teach others also; that the cause of Christ suffer not. It is not the multitude of preachers that is to bring about the glorious millennium! but it is those who are "called, and chosen, and faithful."
Let the Elders be exceedingly careful about unnecessarily disturbing and harrowing up the feelings of the people. Remember that your business is to preach the Gospel in all humility and meekness, and warn sinners to repent and come to Christ. Avoid contentions and vain disputes with men of corrupt minds, who do not desire to know the truth. Remember that "it is a day of warning, and not a day of many words." If they receive not your testimony in one place, flee to another, remembering to cast no reflections, nor throw out any bitter sayings. If you do your duty, it will be just as well with you, as though all men embraced the Gospel.
Be careful about sending boys to preach the Gospel to the world; if they go, let them be accompanied by some one who is able to guide them in the proper channel, lest they become puffed up, and fall under condemnation, and into the snare of the devil. Finally, in these critical times, be careful; call on the Lord day and night; beware of pride; beware of false brethren, who will creep in among you to spy out your liberties. Awake to righteousness, and sin not; let your light shine, and show yourselves workmen that need not be ashamed, rightly {469} dividing the word of truth. Apply yourselves diligently to study, that your minds may be stored with all necessary information.
We remain your brethren in Christ, anxiously praying for the day of redemption to come, when iniquity shall be swept from the earth, and everlasting righteousness brought in. Farewell.
[Sidenote: A Life Guard of Washington Driven from Jackson County.]
Monday night, the 24th of December, four aged families, living near the town of Independence, whose penury and infirmities, incidents to old age, forbade a speedy removal, were driven from their homes by a party of the mob, who tore down their chimneys, broke in their doors and windows, and hurled large stones into their houses, by which the life of old Mr. Miller, in particular, was greatly endangered. Mr. Miller is aged sixty-five years, and the youngest man in the four families. Some of these men have toiled and bled in the defense of their country; and old Mr. Jones, one of the sufferers, served as life guard to General George Washington, in the Revolution. Well may the soldier of "Seventy-six" contemplate with horror the scenes which surround him at this day in Jackson county, where liberty, law, and equal rights, are trodden under foot. It is now apparent that no man embracing the faith of the Latter-day Saints, whatever be his age or former standing in society, may hope to escape the wrath of the Jackson county mob whenever it is in their power to inflict abuse.
[Sidenote: Court of Inquiry.]
A court of inquiry was held at Liberty, Clay county, Missouri, the latter part of this month, to inquire into the Conduct of Colonel Pitcher, for driving the Saints, or "Mormons," from Jackson county, which resulted in his arrest for further trial by a court-martial.
[Sidenote: Excommunications at Kirtland.]
December 26.--James Blanchard and Alonzo Rider were cut off from the Church by a council of Elders, in Kirtland, for repeated transgressions, and promising to reform, and never fulfilling. Nelson Acre was also cut off, on account of his absenting himself from the meetings, and saying {470} that he wanted no more of the Church, and that he desired to be cut off. None of these being present, the council notified them of their expulsion by letters. This evening a Bishop's court was called to investigate the case of Elder Ezekiel Rider, who had said many hard things against Bishop Whitney: that Brother Whitney was not fit for a Bishop; that he treated the brethren who came into the store with disrespect; that he was overbearing, and fain would walk on the necks of the brethren. Brother Story was also in a similar transgression. I rebuked them sharply, and told them that the Church must feel the wrath of God except they repent of their sins and cast away their murmurings and complainings one of another. Elder Rigdon also lectured them on the same principles. Brothers Rider and Story confessed their wrongs, and all forgave one another.
[Sidenote: Elliot, Haggart, and Babbitt Cases.]
December 27.--A bishop's court was called to investigate complaints made against Brothers Elliot, Haggart, and Babbitt, and their wives, and Jenkins Salisbury, all of whom were present; but the accusers not being present, the court adjourned sine die.
[Sidenote: Disposition of the Star Press.]
The mob in Jackson county sold the materials, or rather gave Messrs. Davis and Kelly leave to take The Evening and Morning Star establishment to Liberty, Clay county, where they commenced the publication of The Missouri Enquirer, a weekly paper. They (that is, Davis and Kelly) also paid our lawyers, employed as counsel against the mob, three hundred dollars, on the one thousand dollar note, on agreement; a small amount towards an establishment which, with book work and furniture, had cost some three or four thousand dollars.
[Sidenote: Where Responsibility Rests.]
From the very features of the celebrated mob circular, previously inserted, [2] it will be seen that they meditated a most daring infraction of the constitution of our country {471} that they might gratify a spirit of persecution against an innocent people. To whom shall blame be attached in this tragedy? In July last they boldly made known their determination to drive the "Mormons" from Jackson county, "peaceably if they could, forcibly if they must," openly declaring, that "the arm of the civil law did not afford them a sufficient guarantee against the increasing evils of this religious sect;" and in their circular they further say, "We deem it expedient, and of the highest importance, to form ourselves into a company for the better and easier accomplishment of our purposes;" and conclude with these hightoned words: "We therefore agree, that after timely warning, and upon receiving an adequate compensation for what little property they cannot take with them, they refuse to leave us in peace, as they found us--we agree to use such means as may be sufficient to remove them; and to this end, we each pledge to each other our lives, our bodily powers, fortunes, and sacred honors."
In answer to their bold and daring resolves to guard against anticipated evils, I give the following extract from the Governor's letter in relation to this affair, dated October 19th, 1833:
No citizen nor number of citizens, have a right to take the redress of their grievances, whether real or imaginary, into their own hands; such conduct strikes at the very existence of society, and subverts the foundation on which it is based.
I ask again, to whom shall blame be attached for this tragedy? When the mob previously and publicly declared their intentions; and the principles involved were understood by the Executive, as appears by the foregoing; and also by the judiciary, according to Judge Ryland's letter; [3] while the constitution of the land guarantees equal rights and privileges to all--all this considered, to whom should blame be attached, but to Jackson county mobbers, and to Missouri?
Footnotes
1. All the numbers of The Evening and Morning Star from the first issued, in June, 1832, up to and including the number for July, 1833 (fourteen numbers in all,) were reprinted at Kirtland: though in the reprint the page was changed from quarto to octavo form. The last number issued in Zion was in July, 1833; the first reprinted number was issued in December of the same year.
2. Pages 374-6.
3. Page 445.
{472}
Chapter XXXV
Important Correspondence on Jackson County Affairs, Chiefly between Leading Officials of the Church in Zion and State Officials of Missouri. [1]
Algernon Sidney Gilbert's Letter to Governor Dunklin.
Liberty, Clay County, Mo.,
January 9, 1834.
Dear Sir:--Since my communication of the 29th of November, and a petition dated 6th of December last, to which my name was attached, I am induced to trespass again upon your patience, with further particulars in relation to the unfortunate faction in Jackson county, on which subject I should be silent, were it not that I entertain a hope of suggesting some ideas that may ultimately prove useful in ameliorating the present suffering conditions of my brethren, and in some degree restoring peace to both parties.
Being particularly acquainted with the situation of both parties at this day, my desire is to write impartially; notwithstanding I feel very sensibly the deep wound that has been inflicted upon the Church of which I am a member, by the citizens of Jackson county. The petition to your Excellency, dated the 6th of December last, was drawn up hastily by Mr. Phelps, and signed by several of us, just before the closing of the mail; and there is one item in particular in said petition, that needs some explanation; the request that "our men may be organized into companies of Jackson Guards, and furnished with arms by the state," was made at the instance of disinterested advisers; and also a communication from the Attorney General to Messrs. Doniphan and Atchison, dated the 21st of November last, gives his views as to the propriety of organizing into regular companies, etc. The necessity of being compelled to resort to arms, to regain our possessions in Jackson county, is by no means agreeable to the feelings of the Church and would never be thought of but from pure necessity.
In relation to a court of inquiry, serious difficulties continue to exist, well calculated to preclude the most important testimony of our Church; {473} and there appears to be no evil which man is capable of inflicting upon his fellow-man, but what our people are threatened with at this day by the citizens of Jackson county. This intimidates a great many, particularly women and children, and no military guard would diminish their fears so far as to induce them to attend the court in that county. This, with other serious difficulties, will give a decided advantage to the offenders, in a court of inquiry, while they triumph in power, numbers, etc.
The citizens of Jackson county are well aware that they have this advantage, and the leaders of the faction, if they must submit to such a court, would gladly hasten it. The Church are anxious for a thorough investigation into the whole affair, if their testimony can be taken without so great peril as they have reason to fear. It is my opinion, from present appearances, that not one-fourth of the witnesses of our people can be prevailed upon to go into Jackson county to testify. The influence of the party that compose that faction is considerable, and this influence operates in some degree upon the drafted militia, so far as to lessen confidence in the loyalty of that body; and I am satisfied that the influence of the Jackson county faction will not be entirely put down while they have advocates among certain religious sects.
Knowing that your Excellency must be aware of the unequal contest in which we are engaged, and that the little handful that compose our Church are not the only sufferers that feel the oppressive hand of priestly power; with these difficulties existing, and many others not enumerated, it would be my wish to adopt such measures as are best calculated to allay the rage of Jackson county, and restore the injured to their rightful possessions; and to this end, I would suggest the propriety of purchasing the possessions of the most violent leaders of the faction; and if they assent to this proposition, if the holdings of about twenty of the most influential in that county (which would embrace the very leaders of the faction), could be obtained, I think the majority would cease in their persecutions, at least, when a due exercise of executive counsel and authority was manifested. I suggest this measure because it is of a pacific nature, well knowing that no legal steps are calculated to subdue their obduracy, only when pushed with energy by the highest authorities of the state.
In this proposal, I believe that I should have the concurrence of my brethren. I therefore give this early intimation of an intention, on the part of some of the leading men in the Church, to purchase out some of the principal leaders of the faction, if funds sufficient can be raised; hoping thereby to regain peaceful possession of their homes; and in making a trial of this measure at a future day, we would deem it important, and of great utility, if we could avail ourselves of counsel and directions {474} from your Excellency, believing there will be a day, in negotiations for peace, in which an executive interposition would produce a salutary effect upon both parties.
In this communication, with honesty of heart, I have endeavored briefly to touch upon a few interesting points, in plain truth, believing that I have given no wrong bias on either side, and with earnest prayers to our great Benefactor, that the chief ruler of this state may come to a full knowledge of the gross outrages in Jackson county, I subscribe myself,
Your obedient servant,
Algernon S. Gilbert.
To his Excellency, Daniel Dunklin, Jefferson City, Missouri.
Letter of the First Presidency to the Scattered Saints.
Greeting:
We, your companions in tribulation, embrace the present opportunity of sending you this token of our love and good will, assuring you that our bowels are filled with compassion, and that our prayers are daily ascending to God in the name of Jesus Christ, in your behalf.
We have just received intelligence from you, through the medium of Brother Elliot, of Chagrin, making inquiries concerning the course which you are to pursue. In addition to the knowledge contained in the above on this subject, we say, if it is not the duty of the Governor to call out and keep a standing force in Jackson county to protect you on your lands (which it appears must be done, as we understand the mob are determined to massacre you, if the Governor take you back upon your lands, and leave you unprotected), it will become your duty to petition the Governor to petition the President to send a force there to protect you, when you are reinstated.
The Governor proposes to take you back to your lands whenever you are ready to go (if we understand correctly); but cannot keep up an army to guard you; and while the hostile feelings of the people of Jackson county remain unabated, probably you dare not go back to be left unguarded. Therefore, in your petition to the Governor, set all these things forth in their proper light, and pray him to notify the President, of your situation; and also petition the President yourselves, according to the direction of the Lord. We have petitioned Governor Dunklin in your behalf, and enclosed in it a printed revelation, the same as this which we now send you. The petition was signed by something like sixty brethren, and mailed for Jefferson city, one week ago: and he will probably receive it two weeks before you receive this.
We also intend to send a petition and this revelation to the President forthwith, in your behalf, and then we will act the part of the poor widow to perfection, if possible, and let our rulers read their destiny {475} if they do not lend a helping hand. We exhort you to prosecute and try every lawful means to bring the mob to justice as fast as circumstances will permit. With regard to your tarrying in Clay county, we cannot advise, you must be governed by circumstances; perhaps you will have to hire out, and take farms to cultivate, to obtain bread until the Lord delivers you.
We sent you a fifty dollar United States note some time ago; if you have received it, please acknowledge the receipt of it to us, that we may be satisfied you received it. We shall do all that is in our power to assist you in every way we can. We know your situation is a trying one, but be patient, and murmur not against the Lord, and you shall see that all these things shall turn to your greatest good.
Inquire of Elder Marsh, and find out the entire secret of mixing and compounding lead and antimony, so as to make type metal, and write us concerning it. Joseph has sent you another fifty dollar note, making in all one hundred dollars; write us concerning it. There is a prospect of the eastern churches doing something handsome towards the deliverance of Zion, in the course of a year, if Zion is not delivered otherwise.
Though the Lord said this affliction came upon you because of your sins, polluting your inheritances, etc., yet there is an exception of some, namely, the heads of Zion; for the Lord said, Your brethren in Zion begin to repent, and the angels rejoice over them. You will also see an exception at the top of the second column of this revelation; therefore, this affliction came upon the Church to chasten those in transgression, and prepare the hearts of those who had repented, for an endowment from the Lord.
We shall not be able to send you any more money at present, unless the Lord puts it into our hands unexpectedly. There is not quite so much danger of a mob upon us as there has been. The hand of the Lord has thus far been stretched out to protect us. Doctor Philastus Hurlburt, an apostate Elder from this Church, has been to the state of New York, and gathered up all the ridiculous stories that could be invented, and some affidavits respecting the character of Joseph and the Smith family; and exhibited them to numerous congregations in Chagrin, Kirtland, Mentor, and Painsville; and he has fired the minds of the people with much indignation against Joseph and the Church.
Hurlburt also made many harsh threats, that he would take the life of Joseph, if he could not destroy "Mormonism" without. Brother Joseph took him with a peace warrant, and after three days' trial, and investigating the merits of our religion, in the town of Painsville, by able attorneys on both sides, he was bound over to the county court. Thus his influence was pretty much destroyed, and since the trial, the {476} spirit of hostility seems to be broken down in a good degree; but how long it will continue so, we cannot say.
You purchased your inheritances with money, therefore, behold you are blessed: you have not purchased your lands by the shedding of blood, consequently you do not come under the censure of this commandment which says, "If by blood, lo your enemies are upon you, and ye shall be driven from city to city;" give yourselves no uneasiness on this account.
Farewell, in the bonds of the new covenant, and partakers in tribulation.
(Signed) Orson Hyde,
Clerk of the Presidency of the Church.
Governor Dunklin to the Brethren in Missouri.
City of Jefferson,
February 4, 1834.
Gentlemen:--Your communication of the 6th December, was regularly received, and duly considered; and had I not expected to have received the evidence brought out on the inquiry ordered into the military conduct of Colonel Pitcher, in a short time after I received your petition, I should have replied to it long since.
Last evening I was informed that the further inquiry of the court was postponed until the 20th inst. Then, before I could hear anything from this court, the court of civil jurisdiction will hold its session in Jackson county; consequently, I cannot receive anything from one, preparatory to arrangements for the other.
I am very sensible indeed of the injuries your people complain of, and should consider myself very remiss in the discharge of my duties were I not to do everything in my power consistent with the legal exercise of them, to afford your society the redress to which they seem entitled. One of your requests needs no evidence to support the right to have it granted; it is that your people be put in possession of their homes, from which they have been expelled. But what may be the duty of the Executive after that, will depend upon contingencies.
If, upon inquiry, it is found that your people were wrongfully dispossessed of their arms by Colonel Pitcher, then an order will be issued to have them returned; and should your men organize according to law--which they have a right to do, indeed it is their duty to do so, unless exempted by religious scruples--and apply for public arms, the Executive could not distinguish between their right to have them, and the right of every other description of people similarly situated.
As to the request for keeping up a military force to protect your people, and prevent the commission of crimes and injuries, were I to {477} comply, it would transcend the powers with which the Executive of this state is clothed. The Federal Constitution has given to Congress the power to provide for calling forth the militia to execute the laws of the Union, suppress insurrection, or repel invasion; and for these purposes, the President of the United States is authorized to make the call upon the executive of the respective states; and the laws of this state empower the "commander-in-chief, in case of actual or threatened invasion, insurrection or war, or public danger, or other emergency, to call forth into actual service, such portion of the militia as he may deem expedient." These, together with the general provision of our state constitution that "the Governor shall take care that the laws are faithfully executed," are all upon this branch of executive powers. None of these, as I consider, embraces this part of your request. The words, "or other emergency," in our militia law, seem quite broad; but the emergency to come within the object of that provision, should be of a public nature. [2]
Your case is certainly a very emergent one, and the consequences as important to your society, as if the war had been waged against the whole state, yet, the public has no other interest in it, than that the laws be faithfully executed; thus far I presume the whole community feel a deep interest; for that which is the case of the "Mormons" today, may be the case of the Catholics tomorrow, and after them, any other sect that may become obnoxious to a majority of the people of any section of the state. So far as a faithful execution of the laws is concerned, the Executive is disposed to do everything consistent with the means furnished him by the legislature, and I think I may safely say the same of the judiciary.
As now advised, I am of the opinion that a military guard will be necessary to protect the state witnesses and officers of the court, and to assist in the execution of its orders, while sitting in Jackson county. By this mail I write to Mr. Reese, enclosing him an order on the captain of the "Liberty Blues," requiring the captain to comply with the requisition of the circuit attorney, in protecting the court and officers, {478} and executing their precepts and orders during the progress of these trials. Under the protection of this guard, your people can, if they think proper, return to their homes in Jackson county, and be protected in them during the progress of the trial in question, by which time, facts will be developed upon which I can act more definitely. [3] The Attorney-General will be required to assist the Circuit Attorney, if the latter deem necessary.
On the subject of civil injuries, I must refer you to the courts; such questions rest with them exclusively. The laws are sufficient to afford a remedy for every injury of this kind; and, whenever you make out a case entitling you to damages, there can be no doubt entertained of their ample award. Justice is sometimes slow in its progress, but is not less sure on that account.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
(Signed) Daniel Dunklin.
To Messrs. W. W. Phelps, Isaac Morley, John Whitmer, Edward Partridge, John Corrill and A. S. Gilbert.
Letter of Algernon S. Gilbert to A. Leonard, Esq., Attorney.
Liberty, Clay County, Missouri,
February 13, 1834.
A. Leonard, Esq.:
Dear Sir:--I have received a line from William Pratt, who called on you a few weeks since, to inquire if your services could be secured in the prosecution of claims for damages by our Church against the citizens of Jackson county; and by his letter it appears that you are willing to engage in our case. So far as I have conversed with the principal leaders of our Church, they are desirous to secure your services, which also meets the approbation of our counsel in this county, viz., Messrs. Reese, Doniphan, Atchison, and Wood.
I write this a few moments before closing the mail, and have not time to state particulars, as to the extent of the suits, but believe that four or five suits have been brought by Phelps & Co., for the destruction of the printing office, etc., etc., and by Partridge and others for personal abuse. I understand that at the next Monday term of the circuit court, petition will be made for a change of venue in Jackson county, and I suppose no case can be tried before next June {479} or October term. If it is expedient, some one of our people will call on you in a few days, and during the interim, wish you to drop me a line if convenient.
We have this day received a communication of the 4th instant, from the Governor, in which he states, that he is of opinion that a military guard will be necessary, to protect the state witnesses and officers of the court, and to assist in the execution of its orders, while sitting in Jackson county.
By this mail I write to Mr. Reese, enclosing him an order on the captain of the "Liberty Blues," requiring the captain to comply with the requisition of the circuit attorney, in protecting the court and officers, and executing their precepts and orders during the progress of these trials.
The foregoing relates to a court of inquiry into criminal matters, to be held in Jackson county, next Monday week.
Very respectfully, your obedient servant,
Algernon S. Gilbert.
The Brethren in Clay County, Missouri, to Judge Ryland.
Liberty, February 19, 1834.
To the Hon. John F. Ryland, Judge of the Fifth Circuit Court, Missouri:
Sir:--Learning that a court of inquiry is to be held in Jackson county, at the next regular term of the circuit court for that county, or that some kind of legal proceeding is to be commenced for the purpose of obtaining the facts, as far as can be, or bringing to punishment the guilty in that county,--We, therefore, pray your honor to avail yourself of every means in your power to execute the law and make it honorable; and believing that the testimony of some of the members of our Church will be important, and deeming it unsafe to risk our persons in that county without a guard, we request that the order from the Executive, already transmitted, may be put in force.
Respectfully, etc.,
Edward Partridge,
A. S. Gilbert,
W. W. Phelps,
John Corrill,
John Whitmer.
Another request similar to the above was sent, same date, to Amos Reese, Circuit Attorney.
Letter of W. W. Phelps et al. to Judge Woodward.
Liberty, February 19, 1834.
George Woodward, Judge Advocate, in the case of the State of Missouri, versus Colonel Thomas Pitcher:
Sir:--The undersigned request of you, if it be consistent with {480} custom and law, an official copy of the proceedings recorded by you, in the above stated case, for the purpose of preservation, as an important link in the history of our unfortunate society.
Respectfully,
W. W. Phelps,
Edward Partridge,
Algernon S. Gilbert.
Affidavit of Abigail Leonard.
I, Abigail Leonard, depose and say, that on the night of the 20th of February, 1834, in the county of Jackson and State of Missouri, a company of men, about fifty or sixty in number, armed with whips and guns, came to the house of my husband: among them were John Young, Mr. Yocum, Mr. Cantrell, Mr. Patterson and Mr. Noland. Five of the number entered the house; among them was John Young. They ordered my husband to leave the house, threatening to shoot him if he did not. He not complying with their desires, one of the five took a chair and struck him upon the head, knocking him down, and then dragging him out of the house; I, in the meantime, begging of them to spare his life, when one of the number called to the others, telling them to take me into the house, for I would "overpower every devil of them." Three of the company then approached me, and, presenting their guns, declared with an oath, if I did not go in, they would blow me through. While this was happening Mr. Patterson jumped upon my husband with his heels; my husband then got up, they stripped all his clothes from him excepting his pantaloons, then five or six attacked him with whips and gun sticks, and whipped him till he could not stand, and he fell to the ground. I then went to them, and took their whips from them; I then called to Mr. Bruce, who lived in the same house with us, to come out and help me carry my husband into the house. When carried in he was very much lacerated and bruised, and unable to lie upon a bed, and also unable to work for a number of months. Also, at the same time and place, Mr. Josiah Sumner was taken from the house, and came in very bloody and bruised from whipping.
(Signed) Abigail Leonard.
The following letter from W. W. Phelps reached the hand of the Prophet at Kirtland at a time when he had received some eastern papers deploring the success attending upon the preaching of "Mormonism" in the East. The Prophet introduces the letter of Elder Phelps in his history in the following language: "Thus, while the press was mourning the prosperity of the work, and the {481} Saints were rejoicing in the East, troubles changed and multiplied in the West, as may be seen by the following letter:"
Letter of Wm. W. Phelps to the Brethren in Kirtland, Detailing the Farcical Effort of the Officers of Missouri to Enforce the Law.
Clay County, Missouri, Feb. 27, 1834.
Dear Brethren--The times are so big with events, and the anxiety of everybody so great to watch them, that I feel somewhat impressed to write oftener than I have done, in order to give you more of the "strange acts" of this region. I have just returned from Independence, the seat of war in the West. About a dozen of our brethren, among whom were Bishop Partridge, Elder Corrill and myself, were subpoenaed in behalf of the state; and on the 23rd of February, about 12 o'clock, we were on the bank opposite Everett's Ferry, where we found Captain Atchison's company of "Liberty Blues"--nearly fifty rank and file--ready to guard us into Jackson county. The soldiers were well armed with United States muskets, bayonets fixed, etc., and to me the scene was "passing strange," and long to be remembered; the martial law in force to guard the civil! About twenty-five men crossed over to effect a landing in safety, and when they came near the warehouse they fired six or eight guns, though the enemy had not gathered to witness the landing.
After we were all across, and waiting for the baggage wagon, it was thought most advisable to encamp in the woods, and the witnesses, with half the company, marched nearly a mile towards Independence, to build night fires, as we were without tents, and the weather cold enough to snow a little. While on the way, the quartermaster and others, that had gone on ahead to prepare quarters in town, sent an express back, which was not of the most pacific appearance. Captain Atchison continued the express to Colonel Allen for the two hundred drafted militia, and also to Liberty for more ammunition; and the night passed off in warlike style, with the sentinels marching silently at a proper distance from the watch fires.
Early in the morning we marched, strongly guarded by the troops, to the seat of war, and quartered in the blockhouse, formerly the tavern stand of S. Flournoy; after breakfast we were visited by the District Attorney, Mr. Reese, and the Attorney-General, Mr. Wells. From them we learned that all hopes of criminal prosecutions were at an end. Mr. Wells had been sent by the governor to investigate, as far as possible, the Jackson outrage; but the bold front of the mob; bound even unto death (as I have heard), was not to be penetrated by civil law, or awed by executive influence. Shortly after, Captain {482} Atchison informed me that he had just received an order from the judge that his company's service was no longer wanted in Jackson county; and we were marched out of town to the tune of Yankee Doodle, in quick time, and soon returned to our camp without the loss of any lives. This order was issued by the court, apparently, on account of the speedy gathering of the old mob, or citizens of Jackson county, and their assuming such a boisterous and mobocratic appearance. Much credit is due to Captain Atchison for his gallantry and hospitality, and I think I can say of the officers and company, that their conduct as soldiers and men, is highly reputable; so much the more so, knowing as I do, the fatal results of the trial had the militia come or not come. I can add that the Captain's safe return refreshed my mind with Xenophon's safe retreat of the Ten Thousand! Thus ends all hope of "redress," even with a guard ordered by the Governor for the protection of the court and witnesses. [4]
Before a crop is harvested it becomes ripe of itself. The dreadful deeds now done in Jackson county, with impunity, must bring matters to a focus shortly. Within two or three weeks past some of the most savage acts ever witnessed have been committed by these bitter branches. Old Father Lindsey, whose locks have been whitened by the blasts of nearly seventy winters, had his house thrown down, after he was driven from it; his goods, corn, etc., piled together and fire put to it, but fortunately after the mob retired, his son extinguished it.
The mob has quit whipping and now beats with clubs. Lyman Leonord, one of the number that returned from Van Buren county had two chairs broken to splinters upon him, and was then dragged out of doors and beat with clubs till he was supposed to be dead, but he is {483} yet alive. Josiah Sumner and Barnet Cole were severely beaten at the same time. The mob have commenced burning houses, stacks, etc.; and we shall not think it out of their power, by any means, to proceed to murder any of our people that shall try to live in that county, or perhaps, only go there.
Such scenes as are happening around us are calculated to arouse feelings and passions in all, and to strengthen the faith and fortify the hearts of the Saints for great things. Our Savior laid down His life for our sakes, and shall we, who profess to live by every word that proceeds out of the mouth of God--shall we, the servants of the Lord of the vineyard, who are called and chosen to prune it for the last time--shall we, yea, verily we, who are enlightened by the wisdom of heaven--shall we fear to do at least this much for Jesus who has done so much for us? No; we will obey the voice of the Spirit, that God may overcome the world.
I am a servant, etc.,
W. W. Phelps.
Second Petition to the President of the United States.
Liberty, Clay County, Missouri, April 10, 1834.
To the President of the United States of America:
We, the undersigned, your petitioners, citizens of the United States of America, and residents of the county of Clay, in the state of Missouri, being members of the Church of Christ, reproachfully called "Mormons," beg leave to refer the President to our former petition, dated in October last; and also to lay before him the accompanying hand-bill, dated December 12th, 1833, with assurances that the said hand-bill exhibits but a faint sketch of the sufferings of your petitioners and their brethren, up to the period of its publication.
The said hand-bill shows, that at the time of dispersion a number of our families fled into the new and unsettled county of Van Buren; but being unable to procure provisions in that county through the winter, many of them were compelled to return to their homes in Jackson county or perish of hunger. But they had no sooner set foot upon that soil--which a few months before they had purchased of the United States--than they were again met by the citizens of Jackson county, and a renewal of savage barbarities was inflicted upon these families by beating with clubs and sticks, presenting knives and fire arms, and threatenings of death if they did not flee from the county. These inhuman assaults upon a number of these families were repeated at two or three different times through the past winter, till they were compelled at last to abandon their possessions in Jackson county, and flee with their wounded bodies into this county, here to mingle their tears {484} and unite their supplications, with hundreds of their brethren, to our Heavenly Father and the chief ruler of our nation.
Between one and two thousand of the people called "Mormons" have been driven by force of arms from the county of Jackson in this state since the first of November last, being compelled to leave their highly cultivated fields--the greater part of their lands having been bought of the United States--and all this on account of our belief in direct revelation from God to the children of men according to the Holy Scriptures. We know that such illegal violence has not been inflicted upon any sect or community of people by the citizens of the United States since the Declaration of Independence.
That this is a religious persecution is notorious throughout our country; for while the officers of the county, both civil and military, were accomplices in these unparalleled outrages, engaged in the destruction of the printing office, dwelling houses, etc., yet the records of the judicial tribunals of that county are not stained by any record of crime committed by our people. Our numbers being greatly inferior to the enemy were unable to stand in self defense; and our lives, at this day, are continually threatened by that infuriated people, so that our personal safety forbids one of our number going into that county on business.
We beg leave to state that no impartial investigation into this criminal matter can be made, because the offenders must be tried in the county where the offense was committed, and the inhabitants of the county, both magistrates and people, with the exception of a few, being combined, justice cannot be expected. At this day your petitioners do not know of a solitary family belonging to our Church in Jackson county but what has been violently expelled from that county by the inhabitants thereof.
Your petitioners have not gone into detail with an account of their individual sufferings from death, and bruised bodies, and the universal distress which prevails at this day, in a greater or less degree throughout our community. Not only have those sacred rights guaranteed to every religious sect been publicly invaded in open hostility to the spirit and genius of our free government; but such of their houses as have not been burnt, and their lands and most of the products of the labor of their hands for the last year, have been wrested from them by a band of outlaws congregated in Jackson county, on the western frontiers of the United States, and this within about thirty miles of the United States military post at Fort Leavenworth, on the Missouri river.
Your petitioners say that they do not enter into a minute detail of their sufferings in this petition lest they should weary the patience of their venerable chief, whose arduous duties they know are great, and daily accumulating. We only hope to show him that this is an {485} unprecedented emergency in the history of our country, that the magistracy thereof is set at defiance, and justice checked in open violation of its laws; and that we, your petitioners, who are almost wholly native born citizens of these United States, of whom we purchased our lands in Jackson county, Missouri, with intent to cultivate the same as peaceable citizens, are now forced from them, and are now dwelling in the counties of Clay, Ray and Lafayette, in the state of Missouri, without permanent homes, and suffering all the privations which must necessarily result from such inhuman treatment. Under these sufferings your petitioners petitioned the governor of this state in December last, in answer to which they received the following letter: [5]
* * * * * * * * *
By the foregoing letter from the Governor, the President will perceive a disposition manifested by him to enforce the laws as far as means have been furnished him by the legislature of this state. But the powers vested in the executive of this state appear to be inadequate for relieving the distresses of your petitioners in their present emergency. He is willing to send a guard to conduct our families back to their possessions, but is not authorized to direct a military force to be stationed any length of time for the protection of your petitioners. This step would be laying the foundation for a more fatal tragedy than the first, as our numbers at present are too small to contend single handed with the mob of said county; and as the Federal Constitution has given to Congress the power to provide for calling forth the militia to execute the laws of the Union, suppress insurrections, or repel invasions: and for these purposes the President of the United States is authorized to make the call upon the executive of the respective states; therefore, we, your petitioners, in behalf of our society, which is so scattered and suffering, most humbly pray that we may be restored to our lands, houses, and property in Jackson county, and protected in them by an armed force, till peace can be restored. And as in duty bound, will ever pray.
Here followed one hundred and fourteen signatures, among whom were: Edward Partridge, John Corrill, John Whitmer, Isaac Morley, A. S. Gilbert, W. W. Phelps, etc., etc.
Letter of Algernon S. Gilbert et al. to the President Accompanying Foregoing Petition.
Liberty, Clay County, Missouri, April 10, 1834.
To the President of the United States:
We, the undersigned, some of the leading members of the Church of {486} Christ, whose names are subscribed to the accompanying petition, beg leave to refer the President to the petition and hand-bill herewith. We are not insensible to the multiplicity of business and numerous petitions, by which the cares and perplexities of our chief ruler are daily increased; and it is with diffidence that we venture to lay before the executive, at this emergent period, these two documents, wherein is briefly portrayed the most unparalleled persecution and flagrant outrage of law that has disgraced the country since the adoption of the Declaration of Independence, but knowing the independent fortitude, and vigorous energy for preserving the rights of the citizens of this republic, which has hitherto marked the course of our chief magistrate, we are encouraged to hope, that this communication will not pass unnoticed, but that the President will consider our location on the extreme western frontier of the United States, exposed to many ignorant and lawless ruffians, who are already congregated, and determined to nullify all law that will secure to your petitioners the peaceable possession of their lands in Jackson county. We again repeat, that our society are wandering in adjoining counties at this day, bereft of their houses and lands, and threatened with death by the aforesaid outlaws of Jackson county.
And lest the President should have been deceived in regard to our true situation, by the misrepresentations of certain individuals, who from religious, political, and speculative motives, are disposed to cover the gross outrages of the mob, we beg leave to refer him to the Governor of this state, at the same time informing him that the number of men composing the mob of Jackson county, may be estimated at from three to five hundred, most of them equipped with fire-arms.
After noting the statements here made, if it should be the disposition of the President to grant aid, we most humbly entreat that early relief may be extended to suffering families, who are now expelled from their possessions by force of arms. Our lands in Jackson county, are about thirty miles distant from Fort Leavenworth, on the Missouri river.
With due respect, we are, sir, your obedient servants,
A. S. Gilbert,
W. W. Phelps,
Edward Partridge.
P. S.--In February last a number of our people were marched under a guard furnished by the governor of the state, into Jackson county, for the purpose of prosecuting the mob criminally; but the Attorney-General of the state, and the District Attorney, knowing the force and power of the mob, advised us to relinquish all hope of criminal prosecution to effect anything against that band of outlaws, and we returned under guard, without the least prospect of ever obtaining our rights and possessions in Jackson county, by any other means than a few {487} companies of the United States regular troops, to guard and assist us till we are safely settled.
A. S. G.
W. W. P.
E. P.
The foregoing letter and petition were forwarded by mail the same day, April 10th; also the following:
Letter of the Brethren to Governor Dunklin, Asking Him to Write the President in Connection with Their Petition.
Liberty, Clay County Missouri,
April 10, 1834.
To His Excellency, Daniel Dunklin, Governor of Missouri:
Dear Sir:--Notwithstanding you may have become somewhat tired of receiving communications from us, yet we beg of your Excellency to pardon us for this, as we have this day forwarded a petition to the President of the United States, setting forth our distressed condition, together with your Excellency's views of it, as well as the limited powers with which you are clothed, to afford that protection which we need, to enjoy our rights and lands in Jackson county. A few lines from the Governor of the state, in connection with our humble entreaties for our possessions and privileges, we think would be of considerable consequence towards bringing about the desired result, and would be gratefully acknowledged by us, and our society, and we may add, by all honorable men.
We therefore, as humble petitioners, ask as a favor of your Excellency to write to the President of the United States, that he may assist us, or our society, in obtaining our rights in Jackson county, and help protect us when there, till we are safe. As in duty bound, we will ever pray.
(Signed)
W. W. Phelps,
John Whitmer,
A. S. Gilbert,
Edward Partridge,
John Corrill.
Letter of W. W. Phelps to U.S. Senator Benton of Missouri on the Subject of the Petition to the President.
Liberty, Clay County, Missouri.
April 10, 1834.
Dear Sir:--As our society has just sent a petition and hand-bill to {488} the President of the United States, setting forth their distressed condition since expelled from their homes by the Jackson county mob; and as you may remember that I was about to establish last summer, previous to the destruction of my office by the mob, a weekly newspaper, in favor of the present administration, I have thought best to address this communication to your honor, and refer you to said petition and hand-bill, and assure you, at the same time, that my determination is to publish a weekly paper, in Jackson county, in favor of the present administration as soon as our society is restored to its legal rights and possessions.
As a people we are bound to support our republican government and its institutions; and more than all, my press, which was wrested from me, is now printing a mean opposition paper, by "Kelly and Davis." Any communication from you will be well received by
Your obedient servant,
W. W. Phelps.
Hon. Thomas H. Benton.
Letter from Governor Dunklin to the Brethren, Answering the One Inviting Him to Write the President on the Subject of the Saints' Petition.
City of Jefferson,
April 20, 1834.
To Messrs. W. W. Phelps, Edward Partridge, John Corrill, John Whitmer, and A. S. Gilbert:
Gentlemen:--Yours of the 10th inst., was received yesterday, in which you request me as executive of this state to join you in an appeal to the President of the United States for protection in the enjoyment of your rights in Jackson county. It will readily occur to you, no doubt, the possibility of your having asked of the President protection in a way that he, no more than the executive of this state, can render. If you ask for that which I may be of opinion he has power to grant, I should have no objection to join in urging it upon him; but I could no more ask the President--however willing I am to see your society restored and protected in their rights--to do that which I may believe he has no power to do, than I could do such an act myself. If you will send me a copy of your petition to the President, I will judge of his right to grant it; and if of opinion he possesses the power, I will write in favor of its exercise.
I am now in correspondence with the federal government, on the subject of deposits of munitions of war on our northern and western borders, and have no doubt but I shall succeed in procuring one, which will be located, if left to me, (and the Secretary of War seems willing {489} to be governed by the opinion of the executive of this state), somewhere near the state line, either in Jackson or Clay county. The establishment will be an "arsenal," and will probably be placed under the command of a lieutenant of the army. This will afford you the best means of military protection, the nature of your case will admit. Although I can see no direct impropriety in making the subject of this paragraph public, yet I should prefer it not to be so considered for the present, as the erection of an arsenal is only in expectancy.
Permit me to suggest to you, that as you now have greatly the advantage of your adversaries, in public estimation, there is a great propriety in retaining that advantage, which you can easily do by keeping your adversaries in the wrong. The laws, both civil and military, seem deficient in affording your society proper protection; nevertheless, public sentiment is a powerful corrector of error, and you should make it your policy to continue to deserve it.
With much respect, and great regard,
I am your obedient servant,
Daniel Dunklin.
The Brethren in Missouri to Governor Dunklin, Informing Him That They Expect the Arrival of Reinforcements from Their Brethren in the East.
Liberty, Clay County, Mo.,
April 24, 1834.
Dear Sir:--In our last communication of the 10th instant, we omitted to make inquiry concerning the evidence brought up before the court of inquiry, in the case of Colonel Pitcher. The court met pursuant to adjournment, on the 20th of February last, and for some reason unknown to us, we have not been able to obtain information concerning the opinion or decision of that court; we hoped that the testimony would have been transmitted to your Excellency before this, that an order might be issued for the return of our arms, of which we have been wrongfully dispossessed, as we believe will clearly appear to the commander-in-chief, when the evidence is laid before him.
As suggested in your communication of the 4th of February, we have concluded to organize according to law, and apply for public arms; but we feared that such a step, which must be attended with public ceremonies, might produce some excitement; and we have thus far delayed any movement of that nature, hoping to regain our arms from Jackson county, that we might independently equip ourselves, and be prepared to assist in the maintenance of our constitutional rights and liberties, as guaranteed to us by our country; and also to defend our persons and property from a lawless mob, when it shall {490} please the executive at some future day, to put us in possession of our homes, from which we have been most wickedly expelled. We are happy to make an expression of our thanks for the willingness manifested by the executive to enforce the laws, so far as he can consistently "with the means furnished him by the legislature;" and we are firmly persuaded that a future day will verify to him that whatever aid we may receive from the executive has not been lavished upon a band of traitors, but upon a people whose respect and veneration for the laws of our country, and its pure republican principles are as great as that of any other society in these United States.
As our Jackson foes and their correspondents are busy in circulating slanderous and wicked reports concerning our people, their views, etc., we have deemed it expedient to inform your Excellency that we have received communications from our friends in the East, informing us that a number of our brethren, perhaps two or three hundred, would remove to Jackson county in the course of the ensuing summer; and we are satisfied that when the Jackson mob get the intelligence that a large number of our people are about to remove into that county, they will raise a great hue-and-cry, and circulate many bugbears through the medium of their favorite press; but we think your Excellency is well aware that our object is purely to defend ourselves and possessions against another outrageous attack from the mob, inasmuch as the executive of this state cannot keep up a military force "to protect our people in that county, without transcending his powers." We want, therefore, the privilege of defending ourselves and the constitution of our county, while God is willing we should have a being on His footstool.
We do not know at what time our friends will arrive, but expect more certain intelligence in a few weeks. Whenever they do arrive, it would be the wish of our people in this county, to return to our homes, in company with our friends, under guard; and when once in legal possession of our homes in Jackson county, we shall endeavor to take care of them, without further wearying the patience of our worthy chief magistrate. We will write hereafter, or send an express. During the intermediate time, we would be glad to hear of the prospects of recovering our arms.
With due respect, we are, sir, your obedient servants,
(Signed)
A. S. Gilbert,
Edward Partridge,
W. W. Phelps,
John Corrill,
John Whitmer.
P. S. Many of the brethren who are expected here soon, had made {491} arrangements to emigrate to this state before the outrages of the mob last fall. We hope the painful emergency of our case will plead an excuse for our frequent communications.
Letter of Governor Dunklin Replying to the Communication of April 24th from the Brethren in Clay County.
City of Jefferson, May 2, 1834.
To Messrs. W. W. Phelps and others:
Gentlemen:--Yours of the 24th ultimo is before me, in reply to which I can inform you, that becoming impatient at the delay of the court of inquiry in making their report in the case of Lieutenant-Colonel Pitcher,--on the 11th ultimo I wrote to General Thompson for the reasons of such delay; last night I received his reply, and with it the report of the court of inquiry, from the tenor of which, I find no difficulty in deciding that the arms your people were required to surrender on the 5th of last November, should be returned; and have issued an order to Colonel Lucas to deliver them to you or your order, which order is here enclosed.
Respectfully, your obedient servant,
(Signed)
Daniel Dunklin.
Following is the order referred to above:
City of Jefferson, May 2, 1834.
To Samuel D. Lucas, Col. 33rd Regiment:
Sir:--The court ordered to inquire into the conduct of Lieutenant-Colonel Pitcher, in the movement he made on the 5th of November last, report it as their unanimous opinion that there was no insurrection on that day, and that Colonel Pitcher was not authorized to call out his troops on the 5th of November, 1833. It was then unnecessary to require the Mormons to give up their arms. Therefore, you will deliver to W. W. Phelps, Edward Partridge, John Corrill, John Whitmer, and A. S. Gilbert, or their order, the fifty-two guns and one pistol reported by Lieutenant-Colonel Pitcher to you on the 3rd December last, as having been received by him from the Mormons on the 5th of the preceding October, [November].
Respectfully,
Daniel Dunklin,
Commander-in-Chief.
Letter to Governor Dunklin Answering His of April the 20th Wherein He Cautioned the Saints to Keep Their Enemies in the Wrong.
Liberty, Clay County, May 7, 1834.
Dear Sir:--Your favor of the 20th ultimo, came to hand the 1st {492} instant, which gives us a gleam of hope that the time will come when we may experience a partial mitigation of our sufferings. The salutary advice at the conclusion of your letter is received with great deference.
Since our last of the 24th ultimo, the mob of Jackson county have burned our dwellings; as near as we can ascertain, between one hundred and one hundred and fifty were consumed by fire in about one week; our arms were also taken from the depository (the jail) about ten days since, and distributed among the mob. Great efforts are now making by said mob to stir up the citizens of this county (Clay) and Lafayette, to similar outrages against us; but we think they will fail of accomplishing their wicked designs in this county. We here annex a copy of the petition to the President, signed by about one hundred and twenty.
With great respect, etc.,
(Signed)
A. S. Gilbert,
W. W. Phelps.
Daniel Dunklin, Governor of Missouri:
Letter to Colonel S. D. Lucas Asking about Arms Surrendered at Independence.
Liberty, Clay County, Missouri,
May 15, 1834.
Colonel S. D. Lucas:
Sir:--We have this day received a communication from the Governor of this state, covering the order herewith, and we hasten to forward the said order to you by the bearer, Mr. Richardson, who is instructed to receive your reply. We would further remark that under existing circumstances, we hope to receive our arms on this side the river, and we would name a place near one of the ferries for your convenience: as the arms are few in number, we request that they may be delivered with as little delay as possible.
Respectfully yours,
(Signed)
A. S. Gilbert,
W. W. Phelps,
John Corrill,
Edward Partridge,
John Whitmer.
P. S.--We will thank you for a written communication, in answer to this letter, and the accompanying order. [6]
{493}All hope for relief from the general government was destroyed on receipt of the following communication from the city of Washington:
Reply of the General Government to the Petition of the Saints.
War Department, May 2, 1834.
Gentlemen:--The President has referred to this department the memorial and letter addressed to him by yourselves and other citizens of Missouri, requesting his interposition in order to protect your persons and property.
In answer, I am instructed to inform you, that the offenses of which you complain, are violations of the laws of the state of Missouri, and not of the laws of the United States. The powers of the President under the constitution and laws, to direct the employment of a military force, in cases where the ordinary civil authority is found insufficient, extend only to proceedings under the laws of the United States.
Where an insurrection in any state exists, against the government thereof, the President is required on the application of such state, or of the executive (when the legislature cannot be convened), to call forth such number of the militia, as he may judge sufficient to suppress such insurrection.
But this state of things does not exist in Missouri, or if it does, the fact is not shown in the mode pointed out by law. The President cannot call out a militia force to aid in the execution of the state laws, until the proper requisition is made upon him by the constituted authorities.
Very respectfully, your most obedient servant,
(Signed)
Lewis Cass.
To Messrs. A. S. Gilbert, W. W. Phelps, Edward Partridge, and others Liberty, Clay County, Missouri.
End of Volume I.
Footnotes
1. In order to group the correspondence concerning the troubles in Jackson county as close to the recital of those events in the text of the Prophets narrative as may be, several of the communications in this chapter are taken from the place assigned them by previous editors and given in this concluding chapter of Volume I.
2. In my judgment, it does seem that under the powers conferred upon the executive by the provision of the fundamental law of the state--the constitution--and the militia law he quotes, the governor could have granted the request of the Saints to be protected in their homes, until peace was restored. Surely the clause, "or other emergency," in the section of the law just referred to, was broad enough to justify him in protecting, by the State militia, twelve hundred citizens of the United States in their homes until mob-violence had subsided--until respect for the civil law had been restored, and these citizens allowed to dwell in safety upon the lands they had purchased from the general government. Under these provisions he could have "curbed those cruel devils of their will," without "doing even a little wrong, in order to do a great right"--without "wresting the law to his authority."
3. It required no great wisdom, however, to forsee that for the Saints to return to their homes, and then be left there without protection--left to the mercy of human wretches, in whose veins ran none of the milk of human kindness--would not be far removed from suicide, as the mob greatly outnumbered the Saints. To return under these circumstances would only be laying the foundation for a greater tragedy than the one already enacted; and the brethren wisely concluded not to attempt to regain possession of their homes, until some measure was adopted to protect them when there--until "God or the President ruled out the mob."
4. Thus ended the only effort that was ever made by the officers of Missouri to bring to justice these violators of the law. One class of citizens had conspired against the liberties of another class, and being the stronger had, without the authority of the law, or shadow of justification, driven twelve hundred of them from their possessions, and there was not virtue enough in the executive of the state and his associates to punish the offenders. The determination of the mob to resist the law was stronger than the determination of the state officers to execute it and make it honorable. And yet the constitution of the state made it the imperative duty of the executive to "take care that the laws are faithfully executed;" and the laws of the state empowered the commander-in-chief of the militia (the governor) "in case of * * * insurrection, or war, or public danger, or other emergency, to call forth into actual service such portion of the militia as he might deem expedient." With this power placed in his hands by the laws of the state, Governor Dunklin permitted mobs to overawe the court of inquiry he himself had ordered, and allowed them to continue unchecked in their unhallowed deeds of devastation and violence. And while the mobocrats triumphed over law and order, the governor's letters to the leading Elders of the Church contained many pretty, patriotic sentiments, but he lacked the moral courage to execute the law of the state.
5. The letter here referred to will be found on pages 476-8.
6. The arms were never returned to their owners. Before Lucas received the Governor's order, forwarded to him by the brethren, he had left Jackson county, settled in Lexington, Missouri, and resigned his commission. Subsequently Governor Dunklin issued a second requisition for the arms, this time directing it to Colonel Pitcher; but between the issuing of the two orders, the first to Lucas and the second to Pitcher, the arms were distributed among the mob, and they insolently boasted that the arms should not be returned notwithstanding the order of the chief executive of the state.
End of Volume I.
{494}
{495}
INDEX TO VOLUME I.
A
Addresses,--Elders in Zion to churches abroad, 379, et seq.
Agreement,--memorandum of, between Jackson county mob and Saints, 394.
Allen, Elder Charles,--abused by mob, 391 and note.
Anthon, Prof. Charles,--acknowledges visit of Martin Harris with transcript of Nephite Characters, 20.
Apocrypha,--revelation concerning, 331.
Apostates,--Ezra Booth, 215; first, (note) 216; at Hiram, Ohio, 260.
B
Bainbridge, South, Chenango county, N. Y.,--Prophet married at, 17; Prophet arraigned in court at, 89.
Baptisms,--first in new Dispensation, 42; early at Fayette, 51; number of previous to organization of Church (note), 76, 77; efforts to prevent at Colesville, 86. Baptism of Prophet's parents, 79; of Martin Harris, 79; Orrin Porter Rockwell, 79; desire of some to join Church without (revelation), 79.
Barber, Andrew,--death of, 431, and (note), 431.
Bend, McIlwaine's,--revelation given at, 203.
Bennett, David,--attacked by mob, 429,
Bentley, Adamson,--(Baptist) (note), 121.
Benton,--swears out warrant against Prophet, 97.
Bishop, Gladden,--president of Church at Westfield, N. Y., 335.
Blue, Big, river in Jackson county,--meeting of Saints on banks of, 336, 337; gathering of mob at ferry of, 429; the battle of, 430, 431 and note.
Boggs, Lieutenant Governor Lilburn W.,--secretly aids Jackson county mob, 391, 392.
Book of Mormon,--existence of revealed to Joseph Smith, 13; plates of first seen by Joseph Smith, 16; delivered to the Prophet, 18: translation of began, 20; Oliver Cowdery assists in, 32, 33; several of the Witnesses ditto, 49: the Prophet's preface to, 56; copyright of (note), 58; "author and proprietor of," 58; title page by Moroni, 71; difficulties attending translation of (note), 75, 76; two copies of Ms. made (note), 75; counted as a strange thing, 84.
Booth, Ezra,--appointed on mission to Missouri, 178; arrives in Zion, 191; apostatizes at Kirtland, 215, 216, and note.
Boyington, Dr., 97.
Brazeale, Hugh D.,--boast of, 430; death of, 431.
Burch, Attorney,--assists to prosecute Prophet, 92.
C
Cahoon, William F.,--appointed on mission, 332.
Campbell, Alexander,--founder of {496} sect "The Disciples," relations with Sidney Rigdon (note), 120.
Canada, Upper,--Prophet's journey through, 421.
Charges,--false, against Saints refuted (note), 376, 377.
China,--earthquake in (note), 158.
Cholera,--in United States, 282; ravages of, 301.
Church,--the, reasons for writing history of, 1; time when written, 2; prophecy concerning rise of, 42; instructions how to organize, 61; government of (revelation), 64, et seq.; first Elder of, 40, 61; day of organization of, 77; commanded to move from New York to Ohio, 139; at Thompson, breaks covenant (note), 180; in Zion, divided into ten branches (note), 409.
Churches,--sectarian, all wrong, 6.
Circular,--on building Temple at Kirtland, 349, 350.
Coburn, Emily,--efforts to prevent her joining Church, 87; baptism of, 87.
Coe, Joseph,--accompanies Prophet to Zion, 188.
Cole, Squire,--attempts to anticipate publication of Book of Mormon, 76.
Colesville, Broome county, N. Y., 81; home of Knight family, 47; Prophet's ministry at, 81, 86; opposition to work at, 86, 87; efforts to prevent baptism at, 87, 88.
Colesville, branch,--removed to Ohio, 173; settled at Thompson (note), 180; removed to Missouri (note), 181; arrive in Zion, 191; number of (note), 196.
Colburn, Village, Canada,--Prophet preaches in, 421.
Color, Free People of, 373; article on, 377, et seq. and note.
Coltrin, Zebedee,--biography, (note), 322; speaks in tongues in Kirtland, 323.
Commandments, Book of, number of copies of first edition, 222; testimony of Elders to, 226 and note; dedicated by prayer, 234; how esteemed by Church 235, 236 and note; Joseph Smith et al. appointed stewards of, 236 and note; first edition ordered printed, 270.
Conference,--first of Church, 84; date of (note), 84; spiritual manifestations at, 85; second of Church, 115; results of, 118; third of Church, 140; fourth of Church, Kirtland, June 3rd, 175; date of, (note), 175; spiritual manifestations at (note), 176; at Hiram, 219; special at Kirland, 219 and note; at Hiram, 221, 222 and note; at Amherst, Lorain county, Ohio, 242, 243 and note; of High Priests and Elders at Kirtland, 322, 323; in Zion, first on 6th of April, 336; of High Priests in Kirtland, 342, 352, 354.
Confirmation,--of members, first, 78; Lydia Knight and Emma Smith, 106, 108.
Constitution, article from Mo., 374 and note; secret of mob, 374 and note.
Copley, Leman, Quaker,--embraces the Gospel, 167 and note; revelation to 167, et seq.
Copley, Daniel, Priest's license taken from, 354.
Corrill, John,--offers himself a ransom for Saints in Jackson county, 294.
Council, A,--appoints committee to purchase land in Kirtland, 335; in Zion to effect reconciliation with brethren in Kirtland, 335, to consider standing of Baldwin Welton et al., 343; doings of reviewed, 343; of High Priests in Zion, 407.
Counsel employed by Saints, 424, 425.
Covill, James, Baptist minister,--makes covenant, 143: revelation to, 143, et seq.; reasons for breaking covenant, revelation on, 145.
Cowdery, Oliver,--biography (note), 32; becomes acquainted {497} with Smith family, (note), 32; meets David Whitmer at Palmyra (note), 32; becomes scribe to the Prophet, 32; receives divine evidence of Prophet's inspiration (revelation), 33, 35; desires power to translate, granted, (revelation), 36; fails, reasons why, (revelation), 37, 38; receives Aaronic Priesthood, 39; baptized, 41; describes John, the Baptist's administration (note), 42, 43; desires to become one of the Three Witnesses, 53; obtains view of plates, 54; Second Elder in the Church, 41, 61; ordains Prophet Joseph the First Elder of the Church, 78; revelation to, 80; first public discourse preached by, 81; baptizes at Colesville, 88; falls into error in commanding Prophet, 105; accepts revelation of Hyrum Page, 110; revelation to, instructing him to be obedient, 110; appointed to Lamanite mission, (note), 118; departs on mission, 120; visits Catteraugus tribe, (note), 120; arrives at Kirtland, 120; public ministry at Kirtland, 124, 125; released as Church Historian (revelation), 166 and note; reports Lamanite mission by letter, (note), 182, 183; returns to Kirtland with Prophet, 206; appointed to carry manuscript of Book of Commandments to Zion, (note), 221, 222, and 229, 234, (note); special messenger of Saints in Zion to Kirtland, 385; appointed editor of Saints' Messenger and Advocate at Kirtland, also editor of re-printed Star, 409.
Cowin, Horace,--appointed to mission, 332.
Cumorah,--the Hill, 15; description of, (note), 15; Joseph Smith's first visit to, 16.
D
Davidson, James,--counsel for Prophet, 89; defends Prophet at second trial, 93.
Deeds, of consecration and stewardship,--forms of, (note), 365, et seq.
Dennison, Dr.,--member of Hiram mob, (note), 264.
Dibble, Philo, miraculously healed (note), 431.
Discourse,--first public in new dispensation, 81.
Dogberry Paper, periodical, attempt to publish Book of Mormon in, (note), 76.
E
Elders, in Zion,--address of to Church, 277 et seq.; of Church, address to, 280; address of Elders stationed in Zion to Churches abroad, 373 et seq.
Enemies, eyes of, blinded, 109.
Enoch,--prophecy of, 133 et seq. Epistles, see letters.
Ewing, Rev. Finis,--opposes Church, (note), 372, 392.
F
Family, The,--at Kirtland, (note), 146.
Farm, French,--purchase of, 335, 336.
Fayette, residence of Whitmers, 49; Prophet moves to, 49; Church organized at, 76, 77; first public meeting held at, 81; Prophet removes to, 109.
Fayette,--county seat of Howard county, Mo., (note), 395.
Feet,--ordinance of washing of, 323.
Firms,--Gilbert & Whitney, Ohio, (note), 145; United Zion and Kirtland, 270.
Fitzhugh, Rev. connected with Jackson county mob, 372, 392.
G
Gilbert, Algernon Sidney,--senior member of Gilbert & Whitney, Kirtland (note), 145; enquires of {498} the Lord concerning duty (revelation), 179; accompanies Prophet to Zion, 188; agrees with mob to close store in Zion, 391; offers himself as ransom for Saints in Jackson county, 394; committed to Jackson county prison, 432; assaulted by Thomas Wilson, 432.
Gilbert & Whitney, Messrs., Merchants.--store wrecked, 428.
Gilbert, J. H.,--principal compositor on Book of Mormon, (note), 75.
Gould, John,--accompanies Orson Hyde as special messenger to Zion (note), 407; dispatched from Zion with petition to governor of Missouri, 410.
Grandin, Egbert B.,--prints Book of Mormon, 71.
Green, John P.,--speaks in tongues, 296; appointed to preside over Parkman branch, 342.
H
Hale, Isaac,--of Harmony, Penn., Prophet boards with, 17; embittered against the Prophet, 108.
Hale, Emma,--time and place of birth, (note), 17; marries Prophet, 17; baptism of, 88.
Hale, Levi,--baptism of, 88.
Hancock Levi Ward,--biography of, 322.
Harding, Stephen S.,--statement respecting translation of Book of Mormon, (note), 75.
Harris,--Spy for mob (note), 427;
Harris, Martin.--biography (note), 19; aids Prophet, 19; presents transcript of Nephite characters to Dr. Mitchell and Prof. Anthon, 20; asks privilege of showing manuscript to friends, 21; loses manuscript, 21; desires witness that the Prophet has the plates of Book of Mormon, 28; desires to become one of Three Witnesses, 53; failure at first effort, 54; final success, 55; accompanies Prophet to Zion, 188.
Higbee, Isaac, Sen.,--father of Elias and Isaac Higbee, Jun., (note), 410.
Higbee, Sophia,--mother of Elias and of Isaac Higbee, Jun. (note), 410.
Higbee, Elias,--ordained a High Priest, biography (note), 410.
Higbee, Isaac, Jun.,--ordained High Priest, 410; biography (note), 410.
Higbee, James,--trial of in Kirtland, 355.
Hiram, Township, Portage county, Ohio,--home of Johnson family, 215; Prophet removes to, 215; mob at, 261.
History of Church,--Prophet's reason for writing, 1; time of writing, 2.
History,--Hayden's of Disciples (note), 158; (note) 215, 261.
Historian and Recorder,--Oliver Cowdery acts as (note), 166; John Whitmer appointed as (note), 166.
House, of the Lord in Zion, 359, et seq.; corner stone of laid in Kirtland, 400.
Howe, E. D.,--author, "Mormonism Unveiled" (note), 217.
Hubble,--false prophetess, 154, and note.
Hurlburt, "Doctor" Philastus,--ordained Elder, 334; trial of, 353; appeal of from decision, 354; excommunication, 355; character of (note), 355.
Hunter, Rev.,--connected with Jackson county mob, 392 and note.
Hyde, Orson,--biography (note), 217; clerk for Gilbert & Whitney, 217; revelation to, 218; chosen clerk, first presidency, 353; sent from Kirtland to Zion as special messenger, 407; dispatched from Zion with petition to governor of Missouri, 410.
J
Jaques, Vienna,--in Kirtland, 342; in Zion, 407, 408.
{499} John, The Baptist,--confers Aaronic Priesthood on Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery, 39; acts under direction of Peter, James, and John, 40.
John, the Apostle,--difference of opinion of Joseph and Oliver respecting, settled, 35, 36.
Johnson, Lyman E.,--biography (note), 322.
Johnson, Robert,--spy for mob, 427 and note.
Johnson, family (note), 26.
Johnson, Olmstead,--prophecy concerning, 260.
Jolley, William,--baptized, 81.
Jolley, Elizabeth,--baptized, 81.
Jolley, Vincent,--baptize, 81.
Jolley, Julia Ann,--baptism of, 86.
Jolley, Harriet,--baptism of, 86.
Journal,--Prophet's daily, (note) 416, and note, 422, 423.
K
Kavanaugh, Rev.,--connected with mob, 372, 392 and note.
Kennedy, J. H.,--author, "Early Days of Mormonism," (note), 158.
Kimball, Heber Chase,--biography (note), 296; visits Prophet in Kirtland, 296.
Kirtland, Ohio,--arrival of Lamanite mission at, 120; false spirits in Church at, 146.
Knight, Newel,--Prophet's labors with, 82; seized by evil spirit, 83; devil cast out of, 83; visions of, 85; witness of Prophet's trial, 92; perplexes Attorney Seymour, 93; appointed to go to Missouri, 181; appointed leader of Colesville branch in moving to Zion (note), 181.
Knight, Joseph Sen,.--early acquaintance with the Prophet (note), 47; goes in search of Prophet's assailants (note), 47; supplies provisions to the Prophet and Cowdery, 47; desires to know his duty in connection with new dispensation (revelation), 48; revelation to, 80; baptism of, 88; mob at house of, 88; employs lawyers to defend Prophet, 89.
Knight, Joseph, Jun.,--baptism of, 88.
Knight, Polly, Baptism of, 88; death of in Zion, 199 and note.
Knight, Lydia, wife of Newel,--dream of, 101.
L
Lake, Elder James,--attends council at Kirtland, 389; commanded to remain in Kirtland, 389.
Lake, a Priest,--license taken from, 333.
Lamanites,--mission to, 118; extent and importance of (note), 183, et seq.
Lands,--purchase of in Ohio, 166.
Letters,--Oliver Cowdery to, Joseph Smith and Church at Kirtland, 182; Booth's series of (note), 217; Asael Smith to Jacob Town, 286, 287; Joseph Smith the Prophet, to William W. Phelps, 297, et seq.; of Prophet to Mr. N. E. Seaton for publication, written by commandment (note), 312, et seq.; Joseph Smith to W. W. Phelps, warning for inhabitants of Zion, 316, 317; of Council of High Priests to Bishop and Saints in Zion, 317, et seq.; First Presidency, to branch in Thompson, 324; John Murdock, to Thompson branch, 325; Joseph Smith, Jun., to N. E. Seaton, 326: Joseph Smith, Jun., to ---- Carter, 338, 339; Joseph Smith, Jun., to brethren in Zion, 368-370; First Presidency, to John Smith at Eugene, 370; First Presidency, to church at Eugene, 371; N. K. Whitney, to church at Eugene, 371; extracts of, from Elders to editor of Star, {500} 387, 388; Joseph Smith, Jun., to Vienna Jaques, 407; Frederick G. Williams, to Saints in Zion, 417-419; Wood, Reese, Doniphan, Atchinson, to Saints in Zion, 425; the Prophet Joseph, to Moses C. Nickerson, 444-445; R. W. Wells, attorney general of Missouri, to Messrs. Doniphan and Atchinson, 444; Judge Ryland, to Amos Reese, Esq., 445; A. S. Gilbert to Governor Dunklin, 446-7; Amos Reese to Governor Dunklin, 447; Prophet Joseph Smith to Bishop Partridge, 448, et seq.; Prophet Joseph Smith to Edward Partridge, et al., 453, et seq.; W. W. Phelps, to Joseph Smith, 457; A. S. Gilbert, to Governor Dunklin, 472, et seq.; First Presidency, to the scattered Saints, 475, et seq.; Governor Dunklin to brethren in Zion, 476, et seq.; A. S. Gilbert, to A. Leonard, Esq., 478; Edward Partridge, et al., to Judge Ryland, 479; W. W. Phelps, et al., to Judge Woodward, 479; W. W. Phelps, to the brethren in Kirtland, 481, et seq.; A. S. Gilbert, et al., to the President of the United States, accompanying second petition to the President, 485-6; W. W. Phelps, et al., to Governor Dunklin, 487; W. W. Phelps to U.S. Senator Benton, 487; Governor Dunklin, to brethren in Missouri, 488-9; A, S. Gilbert, et al., to Governor Dunklin, 489, 490; Governor Dunklin, to W. W. Phelps, et al., 491; Governor Dunklin to Samuel D. Lucas, 491; Gilbert and Phelps, to Governor Dunklin, 491-2; A. S. Gilbert et al., to Colonel S. D. Lucas, 492; Lewis Cass, Secretary of War Department to A. S. Gilbert, et al., 493.
Lewis, Joshua,--sent as messenger from Saints in Missouri to Judge Ryland, 429.
Likens, Rev.,--connected with Jackson county mob, 372 (note), and 382 and note.
Lodi, N. Y.,--Prophet Joseph and Sidney Rigdon preach in, 421.
Lovelady, Rev.,--connected with Jackson county mob, 372, 392 and note.
Lyman, Amasa Mason,--biography (note), 332; appointed on mission, 332.
M
Mack, Lucy,--ancestry of (note), 2.
Marsh, Thomas Baldwin,--biography (note), 117; revelation to, 116, appointed to go to Missouri with Ezra Thayre, 178; enquires of the Lord, 186; revelation to, 186, 187.
Mason, Carnot,--member of Hiram mob, (note), 264.
McCarty, Richard, mobber,--breaks into Gilbert & Whitney's store, 428 and note; takes out warrant for Sidney Gilbert, et al., 431.
McCoy, Rev. Isaac,--opposes Church, 372, 392 and note.
M'Lellin, William E.,--biography (note), 220; revelation to, 220; tries to imitate language of revelations, 226.
McMasters, Cyrus, 97.
McWethy, Isaac,--ordained Elder, 327.
Meetings,--public, to be conducted by the Spirit, (note), 163; Elders instructed in ancient order of, 219.
Mentor, Ohio,--Gospel preached in, 124.
Messenger and Advocate,--Latter-day Saints, resolution to publish, 409.
Ministers, Sectarian,--opposition of, 372 and note; connection of with Jackson county mobbing, 392 and note.
Miracles,--first in new {501} dispensation, 82, 83; in Hiram (note), 215.
Misrepresentation,--published in newspapers, 158.
Mission,--Lamanite, 188; departure of, 120; visit of to Catteraungus tribe, 120; arrive at Kirtland, 120; arrived at Independence, 182; report of, 182-185, and notes.
Mitchell, Dr.,--Martin Harris calls upon, 20; visited second time by Martin Harris (note), 20.
Mob, A,--collects at Knight's residence, Colesville, 88; second collection of at Knight's, 97; brutality of at Hiram, 261, et seq.; composition of at Hiram, 264, 265 and note; first gathering of at Independence, 342; manifesto of, 374, et seq.; proceedings of on 20th of July, 1833, 390, et seq.; proceedings of July 23rd, 1833, 394; treaty between, and Saints, 394; action of in Jackson county, 426, et seq.
Monitor, Western,--on Mormon troubles in Jackson county, 392, et seq.
Mormonism,--Western, Monitor on, 395, et seq.
Morley, Isaac,--appointed on mission to Missouri, 178; arrives in Zion, 191; offers himself a ransom for Saints in Jackson county, 394.
Moroni, Nephite Prophet,--first, visit to Joseph Smith, 11; erroneously called Nephi (note), 11; description of, 11; second appearing to Joseph Smith, 13; third visit to Joseph Smith, 14; fourth visit to Joseph Smith, 14.
Moses,--word of God revealed to, revealed to Joseph Smith, 89, et seq.
Mt. Pleasant, Upper Canada,--ministry of Prophet and Sidney Rigdon in, 421, et seq.
Murdock, Joseph S.,--birth of, (note), 260; death of (note), 265.
Murdock, Julia,--birth of, 260.
N
Nephite, Record,--see Book of Mormon.
Nickerson, Freeman,--accompanies Prophet Joseph on mission to Canada, 416; biography (note), 416.
Nickerson, Freeman A, son of Freeman Nickerson, receives Prophet and Sidney Rigdon, 412; accepts the Gospel, 422; ordained an Elder, 423.
O
Ordination,--to Aaronic Priesthood, 38; to Melchisedek Priesthood (note), 40, et seq.; of first Elders of Church, 77, 78; to different offices of Priesthood, 79; regulated in Zion by council of Priesthood, 407.
P
Page, Hiram,--baptized, 81; received false revelations, 109; renounces "seer stone," 115; messenger from Saints in Zion to Judge Ryland, 429.
Page, Katharine,--baptized, 81.
Palmyra, Wayne county, N. Y.,--Prophet's family moves to, 2; Book of Mormon published at 71.
Partridge, Bishop Edward,--biography (note), 128, 129; visits Prophet at Fayette, 128; revelation to, 131; accompanies Prophet to Zion, 188; violence of mob toward, 390; his own narrative of mob treatment, 390, 391; offers himself as ransom for Saints in Jackson county, 394; acknowledged head of Church in Zion, 409.
Paul, ----,--enters complaint 355.
Peck, Hezekiah,--baptized, 88.
Perrysburg, N. Y.,--Prophet preaches at, 421.
{502} Persecution, commencement of, against the Prophet, 6; extends to his family, 19; spirit of at Harmony, 44; reflections of Prophet on, 97; in Missouri (see mob).
Persecutors,--McMaster, 97; Boyington, Dr., 97;--Benton, 97.
Peterson, Richard B.,--baptized, 81.
Peterson, Ziba,--revelation to, 118; appointed to mission to Lamanites, 119; dropped from office, 195.
Petition,--of Missouri Saints to Governor Dunklin, 410, et seq.; second to Governor Dunklin, 451-2; of Saints to President of U.S., 483.
Phelps, William Wine,--arrival in Kirtland, 184; biography (note), 186; preaches over western boundary of U. S., 190; attacked by mob, 390; offers himself a ransom for Saints in Jackson county, 394; dispatched from Zion with petition to Governor of Missouri, 410.
Pitkin, George,--assists Prophet on Journey, 266.
Pixley, Rev.,--agent of missionary society in western Missouri, 372; opposes the Church, 372, 373 and note.
Poorman, John,--baptism of, 86; defends Prophet against mob, 263.
Pratt, Parley P.,--biography (note), 118, 119; appointed to Lamanite mission, 118; relations of, to Sidney Ridgon, 121; presents Book of Mormon to Ridgdon, 122; appointed a mission to Quakers (revelation), 167, (note) 169; reports his mission to Lamanites, 181 and note, 183, et seq.; ministry in Zion (note), 400, 401; assaulted by mob spies, 427 and note.
Pratt, Orson,--biography (note), 127; enquires of the Lord concerning his duty, 127.
Press,--Purchase of for Church, 217; opposition of, 273; Star taken by mob, 390 and note; resolutions to establish at Kirtland, 409.
Priesthood,--Aaronic, restored, 49; powers of, 39.
Priesthood, Melchisedek,--restored of (note), 40, 41; power of Melchisedek manifested, 175, 176; manner of manifestation (note,) 175.
Prophet, Joseph Smith, Jun. (see Joseph Smith, Jun.)
Prophets,--school of established (revelation), 310, 311; meeting of, 322; organization of, 334; in Zion (note), 400.
Prophecy,--of earthquake in China (note), 158; on head of Olmstead Johnson, 260; on war of rebellion.
Prophets, False,--article on, 373, and note.
Q
Quakers,--sect of, character of (note), 167.
R
Reid, John,--counsel for Prophet, 89; defends Prophet in second trial, 93; account of early prosecution of Prophet (note), 94, 95.
Reserve, Western,--history of Disciples on (note), 158.
Revelation,--manner of receiving (note), 173; to Joseph Smith on lost manuscript, 22; on changes in manuscript, 23; to Joseph Smith, Sen., 28; to Oliver Cowdery, making known secret thoughts, 33; to Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery concerning John the Revelator, 36; to Oliver Cowdery granting power to translate 36; to Oliver Cowdery on the manner of translation, 37; to Hyrum Smith, making known his duty, 45; to Joseph Knight, Sen., making known his duty, 48; to David {503} Whitmer, calling him to ministry, 49; to John Whitmer, calling him to ministry, 50; to Peter Whitmer, Jun., making known his calling, 51; to Three Witnesses, 53; making known calling of the Twelve Apostles, 62; on Church government, 64; to Martin Harris, atonement and "eternal punishment," 72, et seq.; to Church, appointing Prophet, Seer and Revelator to, 78; on re-baptism, 79; to Oliver Cowdery, Hyrum Smith, Joseph Smith, Sen., Joseph Knight, Sen., on duties of, 80; to Joseph Smith, Jun., words of God to Moses, 98; to Joseph Smith, Jun. and Oliver Cowdery, instructions in duties, 101 et seq.; to Emma Smith, 103; to Joseph Smith, Jun., Oliver Cowdery, and John Whitmer, how time of to be spent, 104; on sacrament, 106, 107; to Oliver Cowdery, but one man at a time to receive revelations for Church, 110; in presence of six Elders, 111; to David Whitmer, Peter Whitmer, Jun., and John Whitmer, defining duties of, 116; to Thomas B. Marsh, calling him to ministry, 116; to Parley P. Pratt, and Ziba Peterson, appointing mission, 118; to Ezra Thayer and Northrop Sweet, call of to ministry, 126; to Orson Pratt explaining duty of, 128; to Joseph Smith, Jun., and Sidney Rigdon making known calling of latter, 129, et seq.; to Edward Partridge, making known duty of, 131; making known prophecy of Enoch, 133; et seq.; to Joseph Smith and Sidney Rigdon commanding Church to move to Ohio, 139; received at third conference, promising to give law in Ohio, 140, et seq.; to James Coville, making known duties of, 143; second concerning James Coville, why he broke covenant, 145; to Church at Kirland, instructions to leading Elders at, 147; to Church at Kirtland in presence of twelve Elders embracing the law of the Church, 148, et seq.; to Elders of Church repudiating revelations by a woman, 154, et seq.; to Joseph Smith, Jun., Sidney Rigdon, calling Elders to conference, 157; to Church at Kirtland, Zion and her future, 159, et seq.; to Church at Kirtland on spiritual gifts, 163; to Joseph Smith, Jun., appointing John Whitmer historian, 166; on purchase of lands in Ohio, 166; to Sidney Rigdon and Leman Copley, appointing mission to Quakers, 167, et seq.; to Church explaining spirit manifestations, 170, et seq., and note, 170, and note, 173; to Edward Partridge, giving directions to settle N. Y. Saints at Kirtland, 173, 174; to Church appointing Elders to travel two and two to Missouri, 177, et seq.; to Algernon Sidney Gilbert concerning his calling, 179; to Newel Knight, directing him to move to Missouri, 181; to William W. Phelps calling him to ministry, 185; to Joseph Smith, Jun., designating the site of Zion, 189, 190; to Joseph Smith making known purpose for which Elders were called to Zion, 191, et seq.; to Saints in Zion commanding them to return east, 201; to prophet and companions concerning the dangers in traveling by water, 203; to Elders en route to Zion, commanding them to assemble in Zion, 206; to Saints in Kirtland, concerning Saints in Zion, 207, et seq.; prayer given by, 218; to William E. M'Lellin, 220, 221; Preface to Book of Commandments, 222, and note; on language of, 225; to Orson Hyde and others, explaining powers of Priesthood, 227. et seq.; called appendix, 229, et {504} seq.; to Joseph SMith and Sidney Ridgon, directing them to engage in public ministry, 238; to High Priests in Kirtland, explaining duties in Priesthood, 239, et seq.; to Joseph Smith, Jun., on duties of Elders, 241; explaining 7th chap. 14 v. I Cor., 242; at Amherst conference, appointing the Elders to ministry, 243; et seq.; on different degrees of glory, 245, et seq.; to Joseph Smith, Jun., explaining the Apocalypse, 253, et seq.; to Joseph Smith on Order of Enoch, 255, 256; to Jared Carter, appointing him to ministry, 257; to Stephen Burnett, appointing him to ministry, 257; to F. G. Williams, appointing him to ministry, 257; to Stephen Burnett, appointing him to ministry, 257; to F. G. Williams, appointing him counselor to Prophet, 257. 258; to Church in Zion on Order of Enoch, 267, et seq.; respecting orphans and their claims, 269; on Priesthood, 287, et seq.; explaining wheat and tares, 301; appointing School of Prophets, called Olive Leaf, 302, et seq.; the Word of Wisdom, 327, et seq.; to Joseph Smith, Jun., for encouragement to, 329, et seq.; on Apocrypha, 321; directing F. G. Williams to be received into the United Order, 333; explaining oneness of Father and Son, 343, et Seq.; directing the building of the House of the Lord at Kirtland, 346; directing Kirtland Temple to be built, 350, 351; establishing United Order at Kirtland, 352; defining Zion--The Pure in Heart, 400-402; defining duties of Saints respecting laws of the land, 402, 406; to Prophet while in Canada, 420.
Rigdon, Sidney,--biography (note), 120, et seq.; Book of Mormon presented to, 122; relations of to authorship of Book of Mormon (note) 122, et seq.; investigates Mormonism, 124; conversion of, 125; visits Prophet at Fayette, 128; revelation to, 129; appointed to a mission to Quakers, 167; fulfills mission (note), 169; accompanies Prophet to Missouri, 188; dedicates land of Zion, 196 and note; appointed to write description of the land of Zion, 197; removes to Hiram--scribe to Prophet, 219; assists the Prophet in public ministry in Kirtland and vicinity, 239, 241; accompanies Prophet on second visit to Missouri, 266; reconciled to Bishop Partridge, 267 and note; preaches at Independence, 270 and 271; departs from Zion with Prophet for Kirtland, 271; ordained Counselor in First Presidency, 334; presides at a council at Modina county, Ohio, 342; accompanies Prophet on mission to Canada, 416.
Rigdon, John W.,--son of Sidney, writes biography of father (note), 122, et seq.
Riggs, Burr,--trial and excommunication of, 327.
Riggs, Harpin,--ordained Elder, 327.
Rockwell, Orrin Porter,--baptism of, 79.
Rockwell, Peter,--baptism of, 86.
Rockwell, Caroline,--baptism of, 86.
Rockwell, Electa, baptism of, 86.
Rudd, Brother,--meeting at house of, 416.
Rumors,--spread by Jackson mob, 431.
Ryder, Simons,--converted by fulfillment of prophecy (note), 158; apostasy of, 260 and note.
S
Sacrament,--prayer of consecration of, 69; first administered in Church, 78; authorizing use of water in, 106.
Saints, New York,--commanded to assemble in Ohio (revelation), 139; from New York arrive in Ohio, 173; settling of (revelation), 173 and note; petition of, {505} to Governor of Missouri, 410; renewed activity of, 424 on Big Blue attacked, 426; on prairie attacked, 427; attack on, at Independence, 427.
Salisbury, Jenkins,--appointed on mission, 332.
School,--common, 276 and note.
Scott, Rev. Walter,--Reformed Baptist, relations with Sidney Rigdon, 121; opposes the Prophet Joseph, 188.
Scriptures,--lost books of, 132 and note; Prophet Joseph translates ancient, 170; translation renewed at Hiram, 215 and note; translation of New testament completed, 324 and note.
Scriptures,--passages of ancient, quoted by Moroni, 12; understanding of Prophet opened respecting, 43.
Seymour, Attorney,--prosecutes Prophet, 92; Newel Knight's answer to, 92, 93.
Shearer, Rev.,--opposition of, 87.
Silvers, Esq.,--refuses to issue process against mob, 429.
Simpson, Richard,--chairman of mob meeting, 395.
Smith, Joseph, Jun., the Prophet,--birth and ancestry of, 2; attracted by religious excitement, 2, 3; reflection of on divided Christendom, 3; becomes partial to Methodist, 3; instructed by James, 4; first prayer, 5; seized by evil power, 5; first vision, 5, 5; relates vision to sectarian priest, 6; sectarian persecution of, 7, 8; character of early youth, 9, 10; letter on personal character (note) 10; first visit of Moroni to, 11; angel's message and instruction, 12; name to be evil spoken of, 11; repetition of visits and instructions of angel 10, 13, 14; commanded to tell father his vision, 15; first visit to Cumorah, 16; four annual meetings with Moroni, 16; employed by Josiah Stoal, 17; story of being a money digger, 17; marriage to Emma Hale, 17; obtains plates of Book of Mormon, 18; charges concerning plates, 18; efforts of enemies to wrest plates of Book of Mormon from, 18; leaves Manchester for Harmony, Penn., 19; commences translation of Nephite records, 19; intrusts manuscript of Book of Mormon to Martin Harris, 21; visits father's family, 21; loses possession of plates and Urim and Thummim for season, 21; Moroni temporarily returns Urim and Thummim, 21; revelation to, concerning lost manuscript, 22; design of enemies in relation to manuscript revealed to, 23; sacred records and Urim and Thummim restored to, 23; purchases farm of Isaac Hale, 28; visited by his father and mother, 28; received revelation for Martin Harris--promise that Three special Witnesses shall see the plates, 28, et seq.; receives Aaronic Priesthood, 39; baptized, 42; assisted by Joseph Knight, Sen., 47; becomes acquainted with Whitmer family, 48; removes tot he Whitmer residence, Fayette, Seneca county, 51; with the Three Witnesses at time of angel's visitation, 54, 55; the first Elder of the Church, 41, 61; ordains Oliver Cowdery an Elder in the Church, 77; appointed Seer, Translator, and Prophet to the Church (revelation) 78; ministry at Colesville, 88; escapes from mob, 89; arraigned in court, 89; acquitted, 91; second arrest of, 91; abused by constable, 91; trial at Colesville, 92; acquittal of, 96; copies and arranges revelations, 104; corrects Cowdery and Whitmer as to doctrine, 104, 105; instructed on administering {506} sacrament (revelation), 106; removes from Harmony to Fayette, 109; accompanies Elders Rigdon and Partridge to Kirtland, 145; persuades Saints at Kirtland to give up common stock concern, 146; receives number of important revelations, 147-170: translates ancient Scripture, 170; leaves Kirtland for Missouri, 188; meeting with Rev. Walter Scott, Cincinnati, 188; arrives at Independence, Mo., 188; reflections on state of society in Missouri, 189; dedicates Temple site in Zion, 199; leaves Zion for Kirtland, 202; meets Elders en route for Zion, 205; arrives in Kirtland, 206; dedicates Book of Commandments by prayer, 234; appointed steward over commandments, etc. (revelation), 236; public ministry at Shalersville and Ravenna with Sidney Rigdon (revelation), 241; attends conference at Amherst, and is ordained president of the High Priesthood, 242, 243 and note; returns from Amherst conference, and receives vision of the Three glories, 245; mobbed at Hiram, 260, et seq.; second visit to Missouri, 265; arrives second time in Zion, 266; acknowledged in Zion President of High Priesthood, 267; organized Church with a view to independence, 269; visits Colesville branch on Big Blue, 269 and note; gives directions concerning literary affairs and stores in Zion, 270 and note; leaves Zion for Kirtland, 271; poison administered to, 271; instances of gift of seer-ship, 272 and note; arrival at Kirtland, 272; recommences translation of Scripture, 273; receives first copy Evening and Morning Star, 273; visits Albany, New York and Boston, 295; receives visit from Brigham Young and Heber C. Kimball, 295, 296; receives gift of tongues, 297, reviews state of world close of 1832, 301; writes for the press on same subject, 312; et seq.; introduces ordinance of washing feet, 323; completes translation of New Testament, 324; reflection on mob violence in Jackson county, 393, 400; mission to Canada, 416, et seq.; return to Kirtland from Canada mission, 422.
Smith, Jos., Sen.,--birth, place of residence, marriage to Lucy Mack, 2; encourages Prophet to follow instruction of Moroni, 15; visits his son Joseph at Harmony, 28; revelation to, 80.
Smith, Hyrum, brother of the Prophet,--birth (note) 44; visits the Prophet at Harmony and inquires respecting the work, 45; revelations to, 45, 80; breaks ground for Kirtland Temple, 352.
Smith, Samuel H., brother of the Prophet,--birth (note) 44; conversion and baptism of, 44; revelation to, 80.
Smith, William,--brother of the Prophet,--biography of (note), 322; baptism of, 86; speaks in tongues in Kirtland, 323.
Smith, Don C., brother of the Prophet--baptism of, 86.
Smith, Alvin, brother of the Prophet--death of, 2, 16.
Smith, George Albert,--birth and ancestry, 285 and note; baptism of, 285; arrives in Kirtland, 348; labors on Temple, 353.
Smith, Asael, grandfather of the Prophet,--letter from (note), 285, et seq.
Smith, John, uncle to the Prophet,--visit of Joseph Smith, Sen., to 285; arrives in Kirtland, 348.
Smith, Emma,--revelation to, 103; adopts Murdock twins, 260; removes to Hiram, 266.
Smith, Jerusha,--baptism of, 86.
Smith, Katherine,--baptism of, 86.
{507} Snow, Zerubbabel,--appointed on mission, 332.
Star, Evening and Morning,--purchase of press for, 217; prospectus oc, 259 and note; first issue of, 273; purpose of publication of, 274; articles from, 273, 275, 276, 277, 280, 282, 283, 377; Extra, 378, 379 and note, 379, 387; press of demolished, 390; resolution to publish at Kirtland, 409; office of, 277.
Star, Ohio,--publishes Ezra Booth's letters, 241.
Stoal, Josiah,--employs the Prophet, 17; testifies at Prophet's trial, 89; daughters of, testify at Prophet's trial, 90.
Store, Wilson's,--gathering of mob at, 430.
Stringham, William and wife,--baptized, 88.
Stringham, Julia,--baptized, 88.
T
Tanner, John,--sends sons to Kirtland to learn will of the Lord, 410; biography (note), 410.
Tarbill, Squire,--Prophet and Emma Hale married at the house of, 17.
Temple, Kirtland,--corner stones laid, 400.
Temple,--side of in Zion (revelation), 189; dedication of site of, 199; at Kirtland, preparations to build, 349; circular on Kirtland, 349; in Zion, 359; first description of, in Zion, 359, et seq.
Thayre, Ezra,--appointed on mission to Missouri, 178; revelation to, 186.
Thompson,--church at, 180; difficulties in (note), 180, 181.
Times,--signs of the, 347.
Tongues,--first of first exercised (note), 297; Brigham Young speaks in, 297 and note; hymn sung in, 409; gift exercised in Canada, 422.
Township,--Kaw, Jackson county, Mo.--Colesville branch settled in, 196; conference held in, 199.
U
Urim and Thummim,--deposited with Nephite plates, 12 not to be shown except to chosen witnesses, 13; first seen by Joseph Smith, 16; delivered to the Prophet, 18.
W
Wait, Truman,--appointed on mission, 332.
Waste,--member of Hiram mob, 262 and note.
Waterford, village of Canada,--Prophet and Sidney Rigdon preach in, 422.
Westfield, Chautauqua county, N. Y.,--meetings at, 417, 419.
Weston, Samuel, Justice of the Peace,--connected with the mob, 376; liberates Richared McCarty, 428.
Whitmer, David,--birth of, (note), 32; goes to Harmony to take the Prophet to his father's house, 49; revelation to, 49; desires to become one of Three Witnesses, 52; behold Nephite records, 54.
Whitmer, John,--birth of, (note), 49; interest in the work, 49; revelation to, 50; assists Prophet to copy and arrange revelations, 104; appointed Historian of the Church, 166; appointed to accompany Oliver Cowdery to Zion, 234 and note, 235; offers himself a ransom for Saints in Jackson county, 394.
Whitmer, Peter, Jun.,--birth (note), 49; interest in work, 49; revelation to, 51.
Whitmer, Jacob,--baptized, 81.
Whitmer, Mary,--baptized, 81.
Whitmer, Elizabeth Ann,--baptized, 81.
Whitmer, Christian,--baptized, 81.
Whitmer, Annie,--baptized, 81.
Whitmer, Elizabeth,--baptized, 81.
Whitney, Bishop Newel Kimball,--biography (note), 145, 146; {508} welcomes Prophet and wife to his home at Kirtland, 145; accompanies Prophet on Second visit to Zion, 265; returns to Kirtland with Prophet, 271; accident by the way, 271; renewal of journey to Kirtland, 272; accompanies Prophet to Albany, New York and Boston, 295.
Williams, Dr. Frederick G.,--biography (note), 125; joins Lamanite mission, 125; ordained counselor in First Presidency, 334.
Wisdom, Word of, 327.
Witnesses,--Three promised (revelation), 28, et seq.; referred to in Book of Mormon (note), 52; revelation to, 53; with the Prophet seek promise of testimony, 54; details connected with testimony of (note), 55; formal testimony of, 56, 57.
Witnesses,--eight testimony of, 57; time and place of receiving testimony (note), 57.
World,--state of, 281, 301, 388; Prophet's letter on, 312; in April, 1833, 337.
Y
Young, Brigham,--biography (note), 296; visits the Prophet, 295; speaks in tongues, 297 and note; returns to Kirtland from mission to Canada, 388.
Young, Joseph,--biography (note), 295; visits Prophet, 295.
Z
Zion,--site of revealed, 189; first Sabbath in, 190; first house in, 196; Prophet's description of the land of, 197, 198; first conference in, 199; first death in, 199 and note; city of and plat, 357 et seq.; reports concerning extensions of, 419.