The Troubles of ORson Hyde and William Smith--The Book of
Abraham--Close of the Year.
_Tuesday, December 15_.--At home, and, as usual, was blessed with much
company. Samuel Barnum is very sick, his arm much inflamed.
[Sidenote: Complaints of Orson Hyde.]
This afternoon, Elder Orson Hyde handed me a letter, the purport of
which was, that he was dissatisfied with the committee [1] in their
dealings with him, in temporal affairs, that is, that they did not
deal as liberal with him as they did with Elder William Smith; also
requested me to reconcile the revelation given to the Twelve since
their return from the east. [2] That unless these things and others
named in the letter, could be reconciled to his mind, his honor would
not stand united with them. This I believe is the amount of the
contents of the letter, although much was written.
My feelings on this occasion were much lacerated, knowing that I
had dealt in righteousness with him in all things, and endeavored
to promote his happiness and well being as much as lay in my power.
And I feel that {334} these reflections are ungrateful, and founded
in jealousy, and that the adversary is striving with all his subtle
devices and influence to destroy him, by causing a division among the
Twelve whom God has chosen to open the Gospel kingdom to all nations.
But I pray Thee, my heavenly Father, in the name of Jesus of Nazareth,
that he may be delivered from the power of the destroyer, that his
faith fail not in this hour of temptation, and prepare him, and all the
Elders, to receive an endowment in Thy house, even according to Thine
own order from time to time, as Thou seest them worthy to be called
into Thy solemn assembly.
_Wednesday, 16_.--Weather extremely cold. I went to the Council room
today before the Presidency, the letter that I received yesterday from
Elder Orson Hyde; but when I arrived, I found that I had lost said
letter, but I laid the substance of it, as far as I could recollect it,
before the Council; but they had not time to attend to it on account of
other business; accordingly adjourned until Monday evening, the 20th
inst. Returned home.
[Sidenote: Visit of Elders M'Lellin, Young, and Carter With the
Prophet.]
Elders William E. M'Lellin, Brigham Young, and Jared Carter, called
and paid me a visit with which I was much gratified. I exhibited and
explained the Egyptian records to them, and explained many things
concerning the dealing of God with the ancients, and the formation of
the planetary system.
[Sidenote: The Prophet Assaulted by Wm. Smith.]
This evening, according to adjournment, I went to Brother William
Smith's to take part in the debate that was commenced Saturday evening
last. After the debate was concluded, and a decision given in favor
of the affirmative of the question, some altercation took place upon
the propriety of continuing the school [debate] fearing that it would
not result in good. Brother William Smith opposed these measures, and
insisted on having another question proposed, and at length became much
enraged, particularly at me, {335} and used violence upon my person,
and also upon Elder Jared Carter, and some others, for which I am
grieved beyond measure, and can only pray God to forgive him, inasmuch
as he repents of his wickedness, and humbles himself before the Lord.
_Thursday, 17_.--At home, quite unwell. Elder Orson Hyde called to see
me, and presented me with a copy of the letter he handed me on Tuesday
last, which I had lost. The following is the copy--
_Orson Hyde's Letter of Complaint_.
December 15th, 1835.
_President Smith_: Sir--You may esteem it a novel circumstance to
receive a written communication from me at this time. My reasons
for writing are the following--I have some things which I wish
to communicate to you, and feeling a greater liberty to do it by
writing alone by myself, I take this method, and it is generally
the case you are thronged with business, and not convenient to
spend much time in conversing upon subjects of the following
nature. Therefore let these excuses palliate the novelty of the
circumstances, and patiently hear my recital.
After the committee received their stock of fall and winter goods,
I went to Elder Cahoon and told him I was destitute of a cloak, and
wanted him to trust me, until spring, for materials to make one. He
told me that he would trust me until January, but must then have
his pay, as the payment for the goods became due at that time. I
told him I knew not from whence the money would come, and I could
not promise it so soon. But, in a few weeks after, I unexpectedly
obtained the money to buy a cloak, and applied immediately to Elder
Cahoon for one, and told him that I had the cash to pay for it; but
he said the materials for cloaks were all sold, and that he could
not accommodate me; and I will here venture a guess, that he has
not realized the cash for one cloak pattern.
A few weeks after this, I called on Elder Cahoon again, and told
him that I wanted cloth for some shirts, to the amount of four
or five dollars. I told him that I would pay him in the spring,
and sooner if I could. He let me have it. Not long after, my
school was established, and some of the hands who labored on the
house, attended, and wished to pay me at the committee's store for
their tuition. I called at the store to see if any negotiation
could be made, and they take me off where I owed them; but no
such negotiation could be made. These, with {336} some other
circumstances of a like character, called forth the following
reflection:
In the first place, I gave the committee $275.00 in cash, besides
some more, and during the last season, have traveled through the
Middle and Eastern states to support and uphold the store; and in
so doing, have reduced myself to nothing, in a pecuniary point.
Under these circumstances, this establishment refused to render me
that accommodation which a worldling's establishment gladly would
have done; and one, too, which never received a donation from me,
or in whose favor I never raised my voice, or exerted my influence.
But after all this, thought I, it may be right, and I will be
still--until, not long since, I ascertained that Elder William
Smith could go to the store and get whatever he pleased, and no
one to say, why do ye so? until his account has amounted to seven
hundred dollars, or thereabouts, and that he was a silent partner
in the concern, but not acknowledged as such, fearing that his
creditors would make a haul upon the store.
While we [the Twelve] were abroad this last season, we strained
every nerve to obtain a little something for our families, and
regularly divided the monies equally for aught I know, not knowing
that William had such a fountain at home, from whence he drew his
support. I then called to mind the Revelation in which myself,
M'Lellin, and Patten were chastened, and also the quotation in that
revelation of the parable of the twelve sons, as if the original
meaning referred directly to the Twelve Apostles of the Church of
Latter-day Saints. I would now ask if each one of the Twelve has
not an equal right to the same accommodations from that store,
provided they are alike faithful? If not, with such a combination,
mine honor be not thou united. If each one has the same right, take
the baskets from off our noses, and put one to William's nose; or
if this cannot be done, reconcile the parable of the twelve sons,
with the superior privileges that William has. Pardon if I speak in
parables or parody.
A certain shepherd had twelve sons, and he sent them out one day to
go and gather his flock which was scattered upon the mountains and
in the valleys afar off. They were all obedient to their father's
mandate, and at evening they returned with the flock, and one son
received wool enough to make him warm and comfortable, and also
received of the flesh and milk of the flock, the other eleven
received not so much as one kid to make merry with their friends.
These facts, with some others, have disqualified my mind for
studying the Hebrew language, at present; and believing as I do,
that I must sink or swim, or in other words, take care of myself,
I have thought that I should take the most efficient means in my
power to get {337} out of debt; and to this end I proposed taking
the school; but if I am not thought competent to take the charge
of it, or worthy to be placed in that station, I must devise some
other means to help myself, although having been ordained to that
office under your own hand, with a promise that it should not be
taken from me.
The conclusion of the whole matter is: I am willing to continue
and do all I can, provided we can share equal benefits, one with
the other, and upon no other principle whatever. If one has his
support from the "public crib," let them all have it; but if one
is pinched, I am willing to be, provided we are all alike. If the
principle of impartiality and equity can be observed by all, I
think that I will not peep again. If I am damned, it will be for
doing what I think is right. There have been two applications made
to me to go into business since I talked of taking the school, but
it is in the world, and I had rather remain in Kirtland, if I can
consistently. All I ask is right.
I am, sir, with respect,
Your obedient servant,
Orson Hyde.
To President J. Smith, Jun.,
Kirtland, &c.
[Sidenote: Reconciliation of Orson Hyde with the Prophet.]
Elder Orson Hyde read the foregoing copy himself, and I explained the
objections he had set forth in it, and satisfied his mind upon every
point, perfectly. And he observed, after I got through, that he was
more than satisfied, and would attend the Hebrew school, and took
the parting hand with me with every expression of friendship that a
gentleman and a Christian could manifest; which I felt to reciprocate
with cheerfulness, and entertain the best of feeling for him, and most
cheerfully forgive him the ingratitude which was manifested in his
letter, knowing that it was for want of correct information, that his
mind was disturbed, as far as his reflections related to me; but on the
part of the committee he was not treated right in all things; however,
all things are settled amicably, and no hardness exists between us and
them.
[Sidenote: Charge to Elder Cahoon to Sustain the Twelve.]
I told Elder Cahoon, of the Temple committee, that we must sustain
the Twelve, and not let them go down; if we {338} do not, they must
go down, for the burden is on them and is coming on them heavier and
heavier. If the Twelve go down, we must go down, but we must sustain
them.
[Sidenote: Sorrow of Father and Mother Smith over William Smith's
Difficulty.]
My father and mother called this evening to see me upon the subject
of the difficulty that occurred at their house, on Wednesday evening,
between me and my brother William. They were sorely afflicted in mind
on account of that occurrence. I conversed with them and convinced them
that I was not to blame in taking the course I did, but had acted in
righteousness in all things on that occasion. I invited them to come
and live with me. They consented to do so as soon as it was practicable.
[Sidenote: The Sympathy Between the Prophet and his Brother Hyrum.]
_Friday, 18_.--Brother Hyrum Smith called to see me, and read a letter
that he received from William, in which he asked forgiveness for the
abuse he offered to him (Hyrum) at the debate. He tarried most of
the forenoon, and conversed freely with me upon the subject of the
difficulty existing between me and Brother William. He said that he was
perfectly satisfied with the course I had taken in rebuking William
in his wickedness, but he is wounded to the very soul, because of the
conduct of William; and although he experiences the tender feelings
of a brother towards him, yet he can but look upon his conduct as an
abomination in the sight of God. And I could pray in my heart that all
my brethren were like unto my beloved brother Hyrum, who possesses
the mildness of a lamb, and the integrity of a Job, and in short, the
meekness and humility of Christ; and I love him with that love that is
stronger than death, for I never had occasion to rebuke him, nor he me,
which he declared when he left me to-day.
This day received the following letter from Brother William Smith:
_William Smith's Letter to the Prophet_.
Brother Joseph--Though I do not know but I have forfeited all
right {339} and title to the word brother, in consequence of what
I have done, (for I consider, myself, that I am unworthy to be
called one,) after coming to myself, and considering what I have
done, I feel as though it was a duty to make a humble confession to
you, for what I have done, or what took place the other evening;
but leave this part of the subject at present. I was called to an
account, by the Twelve, yesterday, for my conduct; or they desired
to know my mind or determination, and what I was going to do. I
told them that on reflection upon the many difficulties that I
had had with the Church, and the much disgrace I had brought upon
myself in consequence of these things, and also that my health
would not permit me to go to school to make any preparations for
the endowment, and that my health was such that I was not able to
travel, that it would be better for them to appoint one, in the
office, that would be better able to fill it, and by doing this
they would throw me into the hands of the Church, and leave me
where I was before I was chosen, then I would not be in a situation
to bring so much disgrace upon the cause, when I fall into
temptation; and perhaps, by this I might obtain salvation. You know
my passions and the danger of falling from so high a station; and
thus by withdrawing from the office of the Apostleship, while there
is salvation for me, and remaining a member of the Church--I feel
afraid, if I don't do this, it will be worse for me some other day.
And again, my health is poor, and I am not able to travel and it
is necessary the office should not be idle. And again, I say, you
know my passions, and I am afraid it will be the worse for me by
and by. Do so, if the Lord will have mercy on me, and let me remain
as a member in the Church, and then I can travel and preach when I
am able. Do not think I am your enemy for what I have done. Perhaps
you may say or ask why I have not remembered the good that you have
done to me. When I reflect upon the injury I have done you, I must
confess that I do not know what I have been about. I feel sorry
for what I have done, and humbly ask your forgiveness. I have not
confidence as yet to come and see you, for I feel ashamed of what I
have done; and as I feel now, I feel as though all the confessions
that I could make, verbally or by writing, would not be sufficient
to atone for the transgression. Be this as it may, I am willing
to make all the restitution you shall require. If I can stay in
the Church as a member, I will try to make all the satisfaction
possible.
Yours with respect,
William Smith.
P.S.--Do not cast me off for what I have done, but strive to save
me in the Church as a member. I do repent of what I have done to
you and ask your forgiveness. I consider the transgression, the
other evening, {340} of no small magnitude; but it is done, and I
cannot help it now. I know, Brother Joseph, you are always willing
to forgive; but I sometimes think, when I reflect upon the many
injuries I have done you, I feel as though confession was hardly
sufficient. But have mercy on me this once, and I will try to do so
no more.
The Twelve called a Council yesterday, and sent over after me,
and I went over. This Council, remember, was called together by
themselves and not by me. W. S.
To the foregoing I gave the following answer the same day:
_Letter of the Prophet to his Brother William_.
Brother William--Having received your letter, I now proceed to
answer it, and shall first proceed to give a brief narration of my
feelings and motives since the night I first came to the knowledge
of your having a debating school, which was at the time I happened
in with Bishop Whitney, his father and mother, &c.; and from that
time I took an interest in it, and was delighted with it, and
formed a determination to attend the school, for the purpose of
obtaining information, and with the idea of imparting the same,
through the assistance of the Spirit of the Lord, if by any means
I should have faith to do so. And with this intent, I went to the
school on last Wednesday night, not with the idea of breaking up
the school, neither did it enter into my heart that there was any
wrangling or jealousies in your heart against me. Notwithstanding,
previous to my leaving home, there were feelings of solemnity
rolling across my breast, which were unaccountable to me; and also
these feelings continued by spells to depress my spirits, and
seemed to manifest that all was not right, even after the school
commenced, and during the debate, yet I strove to believe that all
would work together for good. I was pleased with the power of the
arguments that were used, and did not feel to cast any reflections
upon any one that had spoken; but I felt it was the duty of old men
that sat as Presidents, to be as grave, at least, as young men,
and that it was our duty to smile (not) at solid arguments and
sound reasonings; and be impressed with solemnity, which should be
manifested in our countenances, when folly which militates against
truth and righteousness, rears its head.
Therefore, in the spirit of my calling, and in view of the
authority of the Priesthood that has been conferred upon me, it
would be my duty to reprove whatever I esteemed to be wrong, fondly
hoping in my heart, that all parties would consider it right,
and therefore humble themselves, that Satan might not take the
advantage of us, and humble the progress of our school.
Now, Brother William, I want you should bear with me, {341}
notwithstanding my plainness. I would say to you that my feelings
were grieved at the interruption you made upon Elder M'Lellin. I
thought you should consider your relationship with him in your
Apostleship, and not manifest any division of sentiment between
you and him, for a surrounding multitude to take advantage of you;
therefore, by way of entreaty, on account of the anxiety I had
for your influence and welfare, I said unto you: Do not have any
feelings; or something to that amount. Why I am thus particular,
is, that if you have misconstrued my feelings towards you, you
may be corrected. But to proceed. After the school was closed,
Brother Hyrum requested the privilege of speaking; you objected;
however, you said if he would not abuse the school, he might
speak, and that you would not allow any man to abuse the school
in your house. Now, you had no reason to suspect that Hyrum would
abuse the school; therefore, my feelings were mortified at these
unnecessary observations. I undertook to reason with you, but you
manifested an inconsiderate and stubborn spirit. I then despaired
of benefitting you, on account of the spirit you manifested, which
drew from me the expression that you were as ugly as the devil.
Father then commanded silence, and I formed a determination to obey
his mandate, and was about to leave the house, with the impression
that you was under the influence of a wicked spirit: you replied
that you would say what you pleased in your own house. Father said:
Say what you please, but let the rest hold their tongues. Then a
reflection rushed through my mind, of the anxiety and care I have
had for you and your family, in doing what I did in finishing your
house, and providing flour for your family, &c.; and also, father
had possession [3] in the house as well as yourself; and when at
any time have I transgressed the commandments of my father, or sold
my birthright, that I should not have the privilege of speaking in
my father's house, or in other words, in my father's family, or
in your house, (for so we will call it, and so it shall be,) that
I should not have the privilege of reproving a younger brother?
Therefore I said, I will speak, for I built the house, and it
is as much mine as yours; or something to that effect. I should
have said, that I helped to finish the house. I said it merely to
show that it could not be the right spirit that would rise up for
trifling matters, and undertake to put me to silence. I saw that
your indignation was kindled against me, and you made towards me. I
was not then to be moved, and I thought to pull off my loose coat,
lest it should tangle me, and you be left to hurt me, but not with
the intention of hurting you. But you were too quick for me, and
having once fallen into the hands of a mob, and been wounded in my
side, and now into the hands {342} of a brother, my side gave way.
And after having been rescued from your grasp, I left your house
with feelings indescribable--the scenery had changed, and all those
expectations that I had cherished, when going to your house, and
brotherly kindness, charity, forbearance, and natural affection,
that in duty bind us not to make each other offenders for a word.
But alas! abuse, anger, malice, hatred, and rage, with a lame
side, with marks of violence heaped upon me by a brother, were the
reflections of my disappointment; and with these I returned home,
not able to sit down or rise up without help, but, through the
blessing of God, I am now better.
I received your letter and perused it with care. I have not
entertained a feeling of malice against you. I am older than you
and have endured more suffering, having been marred by mobs.
The labors of my calling, a series of persecutions and injuries
continually heaped upon me--all serve to debilitate my body; and it
may be that I cannot boast of being stronger than you. If I could
or could not, would this be an honor or dishonor to me? If I could
boast, like David, of slaying a Goliath, who defied the armies of
the living God; or, like Paul, of contending with Peter, face to
face, with sound arguments, it might be an honor; but to mangle
the flesh, or seek revenge upon one who never did you any wrong,
cannot be a source of sweet reflection to you nor to me, neither
to an honorable father and mother, brothers and sisters. And when
we reflect with what care, and with what unremitting diligence
our parents have striven to watch over us, and how many hours of
sorrow and anxiety they have spent, over our cradles and bed-sides
in times of sickness, how careful we ought to be of their feelings
in their old age! It cannot be a source of sweet reflection to us,
to say or do anything that will bring their gray hairs down with
sorrow to the grave.
In your letter you ask my forgiveness, which I readily grant. But
it seems to me, that you still retain an idea that I have given you
reasons to be angry or disaffected with me. Grant me the privilege
of saying then, that however hasty and harsh I may have spoken
at any time to you, it has been done for the express purpose of
endeavoring to warn exhort, admonish, and rescue you from falling
into difficulties and sorrows, which I foresaw you plunging into,
by giving way to that wicked spirit, which you call your passions,
which you should curb and break down, and put under your feet;
which if you do not, you never can be saved, in my view, in the
Kingdom of God. God requires the will of His creatures to be
swallowed up in His will.
You desire to remain in the Church, but forsake your Apostleship.
This is the stratagem of the evil one; when he has gained one
advantage, he lays a plan for another. But by maintaining your
Apostleship, in rising up and making one tremendous effort, you may
{343} overcome come your passions and please God. And by forsaking
your Apostleship, is not to be willing to make that sacrifice that
God requires at your hands, and is to incur His displeasure; and
without pleasing God, we do not think it will be any better for
you. When a man falls one step, he must regain that step again, or
fall another; he has still more to gain, or eventually all is lost.
I desire, Brother William, that you will humble yourself. I freely
forgive you, and you know my unshaken and unchangeable disposition;
I know in whom I trust; I stand upon the rock; the floods cannot,
no, they shall not, overthrow me. You know the doctrine I teach is
true, you know that God has blessed me. I brought salvation to my
father's house, as an instrument in the hands of God when they were
in a miserable situation. You know that it is my duty to admonish
you, when you do wrong. This liberty I shall always take, and you
shall have the same privilege. I take the liberty to admonish you,
because of my birthright; and I grant you the privilege, because it
is my duty to be humble, and receive rebuke and instruction from a
brother, or a friend.
As it regards what course you shall pursue hereafter, I do not
pretend to say; I leave you in the hands of God and His Church.
Make your own decision; I will do you good, although you mar me,
or slay me. By so doing, my garments shall be clear of your sins.
And if at any time you should consider me to be an imposter, for
heaven's sake leave me in the hands of God, and not think to take
vengeance on me yourself. Tyranny, usurpation, and to take men's
rights, ever has been and ever shall be banished from my heart.
David sought not to kill Saul, although he was guilty of crimes
that never entered my heart.
And now may God have mercy upon my father's house; may God take
away enmity from between me and thee; and may all blessings be
restored, and the past be forgotten forever. May humble repentance
bring us both to Thee, O God, and to Thy power and protection, and
a crown, to enjoy the society of father, mother, Alvin, Hyrum,
Sophronia, Samuel, Catherine, Carlos, Lucy, the Saints, and all the
sanctified in peace, forever, is the prayer of your brother,
Joseph Smith, Jun.
To William Smith.
[Sidenote: Desire of the Prophet for William's Salvation.]
_Saturday, 19_.--At home. Sent the above letter to Brother William
Smith. I have had many solemn feelings this day concerning my brother
William, and have prayed in my heart fervently, that the Lord will not
cast him off, but that he {344} may return to the God of Jacob, and
magnify his Apostleship and calling. May this be his happy lot, for the
Lord of glory's sake. Amen.
[Sidenote: Sundry Prayers of the Prophet for the Welfare of Various
Brethren.]
_Sunday, 20_.--At home all day. Took solid comfort with my family. Had
many serious reflections. Brothers Palmer and Taylor called to see me.
I showed them the sacred records to their joy and satisfaction. O! may
God have mercy upon these men, and keep them in the way of everlasting
life, in the name of Jesus. Amen.
_Monday, 21_.--Spent this day at home, endeavoring to treasure up
knowledge for the benefit of my calling. The day passed off very
pleasantly. I thank the Lord for His blessings to my soul, His great
mercy over my family in sparing our lives. O continue Thy care over me
and mine, for Christ's sake.
_Tuesday, 22_.--At home. Continued my studies. O may God give me
learning, even language; and endue me with qualifications to magnify
His name while I live.
I also delivered an address to the Church, this evening. The Lord
blessed my soul. My scribe is unwell. O may God heal him. And for his
kindness to me, O my soul, be thou grateful to him, and bless him. And
he shall be blessed of God for ever, for I believe him to be a faithful
friend to me, therefore my soul delighteth in him. Amen.
_Wednesday, 23_.--In the forenoon, at home, studying the Greek
language. And also waited upon the brethren who came in, and exhibited
to them the papyrus. Afternoon, visited Brother Leonard Rich, with the
relatives of Brother Oliver Cowdery. Had not a very agreeable visit,
for I found them filled with prejudice against the work of the Lord,
and their minds blinded with superstition and ignorance.
_Thursday, 24_.--The forenoon, at home. In the afternoon, I assisted
the commissioner appointed by the [county] court, in surveying a road
across my farm.
[Sidenote: The Prophet's Christmas at Home.]
{345} _Friday, 25_.--Enjoyed myself at home with my family, all
day, it being Christmas, the only time I have had this privilege so
satisfactorily for a long period. Brother Jonathan Crosby called this
evening.
[Sidenote: The Prophet's Renewal of the Study of Hebrew.]
_Saturday, 26_.--Commenced again studying the Hebrew language, in
company with Brothers Parrish and Williams. In the meantime, Brother
Lyman Sherman came in, and requested to have the word of the Lord
through me; "for," said he, "I have been wrought upon to make known
to you my feelings and desires, and was promised that I should have a
revelation which should make known my duty."
_Revelation given to Lyman Sherman, December 26, 1835_.
Verily thus saith the Lord unto you, my servant Lyman, your sins
are forgiven you, because you have obeyed my voice in coming
up hither this morning to receive counsel of him whom I have
appointed. Therefore, let your soul be at rest concerning your
spiritual standing, and resist no more my voice; and arise up and
be more careful henceforth, in observing your vows which you have
made, and do make, and you shall be blessed with exceeding great
blessings. Wait patiently until the solemn assembly shall be called
of my servants, then you shall be remembered with the first of
mine Elders, and receive right by ordination with the rest of mine
Elders, whom I have chosen. Behold, this is the promise of the
Father unto you if you continue faithful; and it shall be fulfilled
upon you in that day that you shall have right to preach my Gospel
wheresoever I shall send you, from henceforth from that time.
Therefore, strengthen your brethren in all your conversation, in
all your prayers, in all your exhortations, and in all your doings;
and behold, and lo! I am with you to bless you, and deliver you
forever. Amen.
[Sidenote: Sunday Services.]
_Sunday, 27_.--At the usual hour, attending meeting at the school
house. President Cowdery delivered a very able and interesting
discourse.
In the afternoon, Brother Hyrum Smith and Bishop Partridge delivered
each a short and interesting lecture, after which Sacrament was
administered.
[Sidenote: Trifling Visitors.]
While chopping wood at my door, on the 25th instant, {346} two
gentlemen called, and requested an interview with the heads of the
Church, which I agreed to grant them this morning, but they did not
come, and I consider they were trifling characters.
[Sidenote: Arraignment of Almon W. Babbitt.]
_Monday, 28_.--Having previously preferred a charge against Almon W.
Babbitt, for traducing my character, he was this morning called before
the High Council, and I attended with my witnesses, and substantiated
the charge against him; and he in part acknowledged his fault, but not
satisfactorily to the Council; and after parleying with him a long
time, and granting him every indulgence that righteousness required,
the Council adjourned without obtaining a full confession from him.
[Sidenote: First Report of the Seventies.]
This day the Council of the Seventy met to render an account of their
travels and ministry, since they were ordained to that Apostleship.
The meeting was interesting indeed, and my heart was made glad while
listening to the relation of those that had been laboring in the
vineyard of the Lord, with such marvelous success. And I pray God to
bless them with an increase of faith and power, and keep them all, with
the endurance of faith in the name of Jesus Christ to the end.
_Tuesday, 29_.--The following charges were preferred:
_To the Honorable Presidency of the Church of Christ of Latter-day
Saints, against Elder William Smith_.
1st. Unchristianlike conduct in speaking disrespectfully of
President Joseph Smith, Jun., and the revelations and commandments
given through him.
2nd. For attempting to inflict personal violence on President
Joseph Smith, Jun.
Orson Johnson.
[Sidenote: Patriarchal Blessing Meeting.]
I remained at home until about ten o'clock. I then attended a blessing
meeting at Oliver Olney's, in company with my wife and father and
mother, who had come to live with me. Also {347} my scribe went with
us. A large company assembled, when Father Smith made some appropriate
remarks. A hymn was sung and father opened the meeting by prayer. About
fifteen persons then received patriarchal blessings under his hands.
The services were concluded as they commenced. A table was crowned with
the bounties of nature; and after invoking the benediction of heaven
upon the rich repast, we fared sumptuously; and suffice it to say that
we had a glorious meeting throughout, and I was much pleased with the
harmony that existed among the brethren and sisters. We returned home,
and at early candle-light I preached at the school house to a crowded
congregation, who listened with attention about three hours. I had
liberty in speaking. Some Presbyterians were present, as I afterwards
learned; and I expect that some of my sayings sat like a garment that
was well fitted, as I exposed their abominations in the language of the
scriptures; and I pray God that it may be like a nail in a sure place,
driven by the master of assemblies.
[Sidenote: Hebrew Studies.]
_Wednesday, 30_.--Spent the day reading Hebrew at the council room, in
company with my scribe, who is recovering his health, which gives me
much satisfaction, for I delight in his company.
[Sidenote: Questions of the Twelve Concerning Trial of William Smith.]
_Thursday, 31_,--At home. After attending to the duties of my family,
retired to the council room to pursue my studies. The Council of the
Twelve convened in the upper room, in the printing office, directly
over the room where we assembled in our studies. They sent for me, and
the Presidency, or a part of them, to receive counsel from us on the
subject of the council which is to be held on Saturday next.
In the afternoon I attended at the chapel to give directions concerning
the upper rooms, and more especially the west room, which I intend
occupying for a translating room, which will be prepared this week.
[Sidenote: An Account of the Book of Abraham.]
{348} The public mind has been excited of late, by reports which
have been circulated concerning certain Egyptian mummies and ancient
records, which were purchased by certain gentlemen of Kirtland, last
July. It has been said that the purchasers of these antiquities
pretend they have the bodies of Abraham, Abimelech, (the king of the
Philistines,) Joseph, who was sold into Egypt, &c., &c., for the
purpose of attracting the attention of the multitude, and gulling the
unwary; which is utterly false. Who these ancient inhabitants of Egypt
were, I do not at present say. Abraham was buried on his own possession
"in the cave of Machpelah, in the field of Ephron, the son of Zohah,
the Hittite, which is before Mamre," which he purchased of the sons
of Heth. Abimelech lived in the same country, and for aught we know,
died there; and the children of Israel carried Joseph's bones from
Egypt, when they went out under Moses; consequently, these could not
have been found in Egypt, in the nineteenth century. The record of
Abraham and Joseph, found with the mummies, is beautifully written on
papyrus, with black, and a small part red, ink or paint, in perfect
preservation. The characters are such as you find upon the coffins of
mummies--hieroglyphics, etc.; with many characters of letters like
the present (though probably not quite so square) form of the Hebrew
without points. The records were obtained from one of the catacombs in
Egypt, near the place where once stood the renowned city of Thebes,
by the celebrated French traveler, Antonio Sebolo, in the year 1831.
He procured license from Mehemet Ali, then Viceroy of Egypt, under
the protection of Chevalier Drovetti, the French Consul, in the year
1828, and employed four hundred and thirty-three men, four months and
two days (if I understand correctly)--Egyptian or Turkish soldiers,
at from four to six cents per diem, each man. He entered the catacomb
June 7, 1831, and obtained eleven mummies. There were several {349}
hundred mummies in the same catacomb; about one hundred embalmed after
the first order, and placed in niches, and two or three hundred after
the second and third orders, and laid upon the floor or bottom of the
grand cavity. The two last orders of embalmed were so decayed, that
they could not be removed, and only eleven of the first, found in the
niches. On his way from Alexandria to Paris, he put in at Trieste,
and, after ten days' illness, expired. This was in the year 1832.
Previous to his decease, he made a will of the whole, to Mr. Michael
H. Chandler, (then in Philadelphia, Pa.,) his nephew, whom he supposed
to be in Ireland. Accordingly, the whole were sent to Dublin, and Mr.
Chandler's friends ordered them to New York, where they were received
at the Custom House, in the winter or spring of 1833. In April, of the
same year, Mr. Chandler paid the duties and took possession of his
mummies. Up to this time, they had not been taken out of the coffins,
nor the coffins opened. On opening the coffins, he discovered that
in connection with two of the bodies, was something rolled up with
the same kind of linen, saturated with the same bitumen, which, when
examined, proved to be two rolls of papyrus, previously mentioned. Two
or three other small pieces of papyrus, with astronomical calculations,
epitaphs, &c., were found with others of the mummies. When Mr. Chandler
discovered that there was something with the mummies, he supposed or
hoped it might be some diamonds or valuable metal, and was no little
chagrined when he saw his disappointment. "He was immediately told,
while yet in the custom house, that there was no man in that city who
could translate his roll: but was referred, by the same gentleman, (a
stranger,) to Mr. Joseph Smith, Jun., who, continued he, possesses
some kind of power or gifts, by which he had previously translated
similar characters." I was then unknown to Mr. Chandler, neither did he
know that such a book or work as the record of the Nephites, had been
brought before {350} the public. From New York, he took his collection
on to Philadelphia, where he obtained the certificate of the learned,
[4] and from thence came on to Kirtland, as before related, in July.
Thus I have given a brief history of the manner in which the writings
of the fathers, Abraham {351} and Joseph, have been preserved, and how
I came in possession of the same--a correct translation of which I
shall give in its proper place.
[Sidenote: Tone of the American Press Toward the Prophet.]
To show the spirit of the public journals, such as _the Philadelphia
Saturday Courier, New York Daily Advertiser, Sunday Morning News_, and
the press generally, the past year, towards me and the cause of God,
which I have fearlessly espoused, I quote the following, as a specimen
of the whole, from M. M. Noah's _New York Evening Star_:
Heathen Temple on Lake Erie.
That bold-faced imposter, Joe Smith, of Gold Bible and Mormon
memory, has caused his poor fanatic followers to erect on the
shores of Lake Erie, near Painesville, Ohio, a stone building, 58
by 78 feet, with dormer windows, denominating the same "The Temple
of the Lord." We should think this work of iniquity extorted out of
the pockets of his dupes, as it reflects its shadows over the blue
Lake, would make the waters crimson with shame at the prostitution
of its beautiful banks to such unhallowed purposes.
Thus much from M. M. Noah, a Jew, who had used all the influence in
his power, to dupe his fellow Jews, and make them believe that the New
Jerusalem for them, was to be built on Grand Island, whose banks are
surrounded by the waters of the same Lake Erie. The Lord reward him
according to his deeds.
Footnotes
1. This committee was the one having in charge the building of the
Kirtland Temple. They were also managers of a store in Kirtland,
through which much of the business connected with the construction of
the temple was accomplished. The committee consisted of Hyrum Smith,
Reynolds Cahoon and Jared Carter.
2. That is, Elder Hyde desired that the Prophet would reconcile the
conduct of the above named committee with some of the revelations which
in Elder Hyde's opinion taught that the Twelve were to be equal in both
temporal and spiritual things. See Elder Hyde's letter, page 335.
3. That is, Father Smith had assisted in building the house, and was
also at that time making his home with William.
4. The account here given of how the Prophet came into possession of
the writings of Abraham, and of Joseph, the son of Jacob, was adapted
from an article in the _Messenger and Advocate_, (Volume 2, Number
3, pages 233, 236, bearing date of December, 1835) signed by Oliver
Cowdery. The article is addressed to William Frye, Esq.. of Gilead,
Calhoun County, Ill. The certificate of the "learned" referred to, is
in the body of the article. It seems that Michael H. Chandler, the
owner of the Egyptian mummies and the papyrus, exhibited his treasures
in Philadelphia, and, while there, obtained the following opinion of
several prominent doctors:
"Having examined with considerable attention and deep interest, a
number of mummies from the Catacombs, near Thebes, in Egypt, and
now exhibiting in the Arcade, we beg leave to recommend them to the
observation of the curious inquirer on subjects of a period so long
elapsed; probably not less than three thousand years ago. The features
of some of these mummies are in perfect expression. The papyrus covered
with black or red ink, or paint, in excellent preservation, are very
interesting. The undersigned, unsolicited by any person connected
by interest with this exhibition, have voluntarily set their names
hereunto, for the simple purpose of calling the attention of the public
to an interesting collection, not sufficiently know in this city."
John Redman Coxe, M.D.,
Richard Harlan, M.D.,
J. Pancoast, M. D.,
William P. C. Barton, M. D.,
E. F. Rivinus, M.D.,
Samuel G. Morgan, M.D.,
"I concur in the above sentiments, concerning the collection of mummies
in the Philadelphia Arcade, and consider them highly deserving the
attention of the curious.
"W. E. Horner, M. D."
Another paragraph in the article explains how it came about that Mr.
Chandler gave the Prophet a certificate, concerning his belief in
the Prophet's ability to decipher the Egyptian hieroglyphics of the
papyrus--which certificate will be found at page 235, of this volume,
under the date of the purchase of the mummies and papyrus by certain
persons in Kirtland. From the paragraph referred to, it appears that
on the morning that Mr. Chandler first presented his papyrus to
the Prophet Joseph Smith, he was shown by the latter, a number of
characters which had been copied from the Nephite plates, and found
that there were some points of resemblance between some of the Nephite
characters and some of the characters on the Egyptian papyrus. Mr.
Chandler then asked the Prophet's opinion concerning the antiquity of
the Egyptian papyrus, and also requested him to give a translation of
the characters. The Prophet gave Mr. Chandler a translation of some
few of the Egyptian characters, which agreed with the interpretation
given by learned men in other cities, where the mummies and papyrus had
been exhibited, whereupon Mr. Chandler gave the Prophet a certificate,
stating that fact.
{352}