The ladies are altogether forsaking Van Buren, and the gentlemen
as a matter of course are following after. There is a wonderful
shrinkage Henry Clay, but the General is going it with a rush.
_Hurrah for the General_!
Footnotes:
1. This was Illinois' senior Senator at the time.
2. The reason for this reference to Missouri and of possible difficulty
arising from the Saints going to Oregon without a guarantee of
protection from the general government grew out of the fact that nearly
all the early settlers of the Oregon territory were from Missouri. Even
in this month of May, 1844, Cornelius Gilliam, the inveterate enemy
of the Saints, and who took so prominent a part in the troubles about
Far West, was collecting a large company at Independence, Missouri,
numbering over three hundred persons, to start for Oregon that season;
and all along the Oregon route on the south side of the Platte river,
the road was thronged during the next several years by emigrants, very
many of whom, and for some time the most of whom, were from Missouri_.
(See Western Missouri Expositor,_ May 18 1844. Also Bancroft's _Oregon_
Vol. I, page 449,_ Passim_).
3. This was John C. Fremont.
4. For the part taken by Mr. Reid in defending the Prophet in those
early experiences, See this HISTORY Vol. I, pp. 89-96 and _note_ p. 94
_et seq_.
{386}
CHAPTER XVII.
THE STATE PRESIDENTIAL CONVENTION AT NAUVOO--THE STATES
REPRESENTED--SPEECH OF JOHN S. REID, ESQ.--EARLY DAYS WITH THE PROPHET.
_Friday, May 17, 1844.--_The State Convention met in the assembly room.
I copy the minutes.
_State Convention at Nauvoo_.
Convention met according to appointment, and was organized
by appointing General Uriah Brown to the chair, and Dr. F.
Merryweather secretary.
Dr. G. W. Goforth presented the following letter, and took his
seat in the convention. Several letters of the same character were
presented by other gentlemen, but we have not room to insert them.
MUSCOUTAH, ST. CLAIR COUNTY, ILL., May 4th, 1844.
_Mr. G. W. Goforth_:
Sir,--At various meetings held in this county, where I had the
honor of attending, and the interesting topic of the selection of
a suitable person for the high station of President of the United
States being at this time the most important to Americans, and with
the names that are now before the people, Joseph Smith of Nauvoo
is recognized respectfully as a candidate, declarative in the
principles of Jeffersonianism, or Jefferson democracy, free trade,
and sailor's rights, and the protection of person and property.
A convention being about to be held in the City of Nauvoo on the
17th of this month (May), your name has been on every occasion
given as a delegate to said convention, and through me the message
to be imparted you, asking you to represent our expressions in the
case.
Please say for us, as Americans, that we will support General
Joseph Smith in preference to any other man that has given, or
suffered his name to come before us as a candidate. And at the
great Baltimore Convention, to be held on the 13th of July, our
delegation to said convention be authorized to proclaim for us
submission to the nominee as may be by them brought before the
people, in case of a failure to {387} nominate Joseph Smith (our
choice), and unite approbatively for his support.
Respectfully, sir, this communication and authority usward is
forwarded you as your voucher at said convention, with our hearty
prayers for the success of him whose special name is given in the
important affairs.
HENRY B. JACOBS.
Agent for the friends of General Joseph Smith.
Mr. Clay's letter to General Joseph Smith was then read by Mr.
Phelps, and also General Joseph Smith's rejoinder, which was
applauded by three cheers.
It was moved and seconded that the following gentlemen be appointed
a committee to draft resolutions for the adoption of this
convention:--
Dr. G. W. Goforth, John Taylor, Wm. W. Phelps, William Smith, and
Lucian R. Foster.
It was moved and seconded that he correspondence of the Central
Committee for Government Reform of New York be read by W. W.
Phelps, also General Joseph Smith's answer to the same.
NEW YORK, April 20, 1844.
_Joseph Smith, Esq_.,
SIR,--The subscribers, the Central Committee of the National
Reform Association, in accordance with a duty prescribed by their
constitution, respectively solicit an expression of your views as
a candidate for public office, on a subject that, as they think,
vitally affects the rights and interests of their constituents.
We see this singular condition of affairs, and while wealth in
our country is rapidly accumulating, while internal improvements
of every description are fast increasing, and while machinery has
multiplied the power of production to an immense extent, yet with
all these national advantages, the compensation for useful labor is
getting less and less.
We seek the cause of this anomaly, and we trace it to the monopoly
of the land, which places labor at the mercy of capital. We
therefore desire to abolish the monopoly, not by interfering with
the conventional fights of persons now in possession of the land,
but by arresting the further sale of all lands not yet appropriated
as private property, and by allowing these lands hereafter to be
freely occupied by those who may choose to settle on them.
We propose that the public lands hereafter shall not be owned, but
occupied only, the occupant having the right to sell or otherwise
dispose of improvements to any one not in possession of other land;
so that, by preventing any individual from becoming possessed of
more than a limited quantity, every one may enjoy the right.
This measure, we think, would gradually establish an equilibrium
{388} between the agricultural and other useful occupations, that
would ensure to all full employment and fair compensation for their
labor, on the lands now held as private property, and to each
individual on the public lands the right to work for himself on his
own premises, or for another, at his option.
An answer, as soon as convenient, will much oblige your
fellow-citizens.
John Windt, Egbert S. Manning, James Maxwell, Lewis Masquerier,
Daniel Witter, Geore H. Evans, Ellis Smalley.
NAUVOO, ILL., May 16th, 1844.
_To John Windt, Egbert S. Manning, James Maxwell, Lewis Masquerier,
Daniel Witter, George H. Evans, and Ellis Smalley, Esqrs_.
GENTLEMEN:--
Your communication of April 20th, soliciting my views relative
to the public lands, is before me; and I answer, that as soon as
the greater national evils could be remedied by the consolidated
efforts of a virtuous people and the judicious legislation of wise
men, so that slavery could not occupy one-half of the United States
for speculation, competition, prodigality, and fleshy capital, and
so that enormous salaries, stipends, fees, perquisites, patronage,
and the wages of spiritual wickedness in ermine and lace could not
swallow up forty or fifty millions of public revenue, I would use
all honorable means to bring the wages of mechanics and farmers
up, and salaries of public servants down, increase labor and money
by a judicious tariff, and advise the people--who are only the
sovereigns of the soil--to petition Congress to pass a uniform land
law! that the air, the water, and the land, of the asylum of the
oppressed, might be free to free men!
With consideration of the highest regard for unadulterated freedom
I have the honor to be your obedient servant.
JOSEPH SMITH.
After which, the meeting adjourned for one hour.
It was moved and seconded that the following gentlemen be
constituted a committee to appoint electors for this State:--
Dr. G. W. Goforth, L. Robinson, L. N. Scoville, Peter Hawes, and
John S. Reid.
It was moved and seconded that the following gentlemen be
constituted a central committee of correspondence, having power to
increase their number:--
{389} Dr. Willard Richards, Dr. J. M. Bernhisel, W. W. Phelps, and
Lucian R. Foster.
The following delegates from the different states of the Union were
then received by vote:--
It was moved, seconded, and carried by acclamation, that General
Joseph Smith, of Illinois, be the choice of this convention for
President of the United States.
It was moved, seconded, and carried by acclamation, that Sidney
Rigdon, Esq., of Pennsylvania, be the choice of the Convention for
Vice-President of the United States.
The nine following resolutions were then adopted, the fifth of
which was carried by acclamation.
_Resolutions_.
1._ Resolved,_ that from all the facts and appearances that are now
{391} visible in the United States, we believe that much imbecility
and fraud is practiced by the officers of Government; and that to
remedy these evils it is highly necessary that a virtuous people
should arise in the panoply of their might, and with one heart and
one mind correct these abuses by electing wise and honorable men to
fill the various offices of Government.
2. _Resolved,_ that as union is power, the permanency and
continuance of our political institutions depend upon the
correction of the abuses.
3. _Resolved,_ that as all political parties of the present day
have degraded themselves by adhering more or less to corrupt
principles and practices, by fomenting discord and division among
the people, being swallowed in the vortex of party spirit and
sectional prejudices, until they have become insensible to the
welfare of the people and the general good of the country; and
knowing that there are good men among all parties, in whose bosoms
burn the fire of pure patriotism, we invite they, by the love of
liberty, by the sacred honor of freemen, by the patriotism of
the illustrious fathers of our freedom, by the glorious love of
country, and by the holy principles of '76, to come over and help
us to reform the Government.
4. _Resolved,_ that to redress all wrongs, the government of the
United States, with the President at its head, is as powerful in
its sphere as Jehovah is in His.
5. _Resolved,_ that the better to carry out the principles of
liberty and equal rights, Jeffersonian democracy, free trade, and
sailor's rights, and the protection of person and property, we will
support General Joseph Smith, of Illinois, for the President of the
United States at the ensuing election.
6._ Resolved,_ that we will support Sidney Rigdon, Esq., of
Pennsylvania, for the Vice-Presidency.
7._ Resolved,_ that we will hold a National Convention at Baltimore
on Saturday, the 13th day of July.
8. _Resolved,_ that we call upon the honest men of all parties in
each state to send their delegates to said convention.
9._ Resolved,_ that all honest editors throughout the United States
are requested to publish the above resolutions.
10. _Resolved,_ that those gentlemen who stand at the head of
the list, who have gone to the several states to take charge of
our political interests, be requested to use every exertion to
appoint electors in the several electoral districts of the States
which they represent, and also to send delegates to the Baltimore
Convention.
11. _Resolved,_ that Dr. Goforth and John S. Reid, Esq., be
requested to furnish a copy of their speeches for publication.
{392} 12. _Resolved,_ that the electors be instructed to make stump
speeches in their different districts.
13. _Resolved,_ that the thanks of this meeting be given to Mr.
Hancock for his patriotic song.
It was moved and seconded that Orson Hyde, Heber C. Kimball,
David S. Hollister, Orson Pratt, and Lyman Wight represent this
convention at the convention to be held in Baltimore on the 13th of
July next.
Sidney Rigdon, Esq., then addressed the meeting, and was succeeded
by the following gentlemen:--Gen. Joseph Smith, Dr. G. W. Goforth,
Lyman Wight, W. W. Phelps, John Taylor, Hyrum Smith, and John S.
Reid, Esq.
It was moved, seconded, and carried, that the thanks of this
meeting be given to the chairman and secretary.
The Convention was addressed in an eloquent speech by Sidney
Rigdon, Esq., showing the political dishonesty of both Henry Clay
and Martin Van Buren, and stating his views, and the present
condition of the country.
Dr. Goforth rose and addressed the convention. [Dr. Goforth dealt
chiefly with the past glories of the republic, and the wrongs
suffered by the Latter-day Saints in Missouri].
_Synopsis of the Remarks of Hon. John S. Reid_. [2]
_Mr. Chairman_:
I cannot leave this subject and do justice to my own feelings and
the character of Gen. Smith, without giving a short history of the
first persecution that came upon him in the counties of Chenango
and Broome, in the State of New York, commenced by that class of
people calling themselves Christians.
The first acquaintance I had with Gen. Smith was about the year
1833. He came into my neighborhood, being then about eighteen years
of age, and resided there two years; during which time I became
intimately acquainted with him. I do know that his character was
irreproachable; that he was well known for truth and uprightness;
that he moved in the first circles of the community, and he was
often spoken of as a young man of intelligence and good morals,
and possessing a mind susceptible of the highest intellectual
attainments.
I early discovered that his mind was constantly in search of truth,
expressing an anxious desire to know the will of God concerning
His children here below, often speaking of those things which
professed Christians believe in. I have often observed to my best
informed friends {393} (those that were free from superstition
and bigotry) that I thought Joseph was predestinated by his God
from all eternity to be an instrument in the hands of the great
Dispenser of all good to do a great work. What it was I knew not.
After living in that neighborhood about three years, enjoying the
good feelings of his acquaintance as a worthy youth, he told his
particular friends that he had had a revelation from God to go to
the west about eighty miles to his father's, in which neighborhood
he should find hid in the earth an old history written on golden
plates, which would give great light and knowledge concerning
the will of God towards His people in this generation, unfolding
the destiny of all nations, kindreds and tongues. He said that
he distinctly heard the voice of him that spake. Joseph Knight,
one of the fathers of your Church, a worthy man, and my intimate
friend, went with him. When I reflect upon our former friendship,
Mr. Chairman, and upon the scenes that he had passed through in
consequence of mal-administration, mobocracy and cruelty, I feel
to lift up my voice to high heaven, and pray God to bless the aged
veteran, and that his silver locks may go down to the grave in
peace, like a shock of corn fully ripe. In a few days his friends
[Joseph Smith's] returned with the glad news that Joseph had
found the plates and had gone down to his father-in-law's for the
purpose of translating them. I believe he remained there until he
finished the translation. After the book was published, he came
to live in the neighborhood of Father Knight's, about four miles
from me, and began to preach the Gospel; and many were pricked in
their hearts, believed, and were baptized in the name of the Lord
Jesus. He soon formed a Church at Colesville; his meetings were
numerously attended, and the eyes of all people were upon him with
astonishment. Oh, Mr. Chairman, the world was turned upside down
at once, and the devil,--always ready to assist and help along in
all difficulties that arise among men--personified in some of the
religionists, began to prick up his ears and jump, and kick and
run about, like Jim Crow, calling for rotten eggs to help in the
wake. You would have thought, sir, that Gog and Magog were let
loose on the young man. He called upon the world's people (as they
are called) but got no help; he then flew about in the sectarian
churches, like lightning, and they immediately came to his aid,
and uniting their efforts, roared against him like the thunders of
Mount Sinai. When those fiery bigots were let loose, they united
in pouring the red hot vials of their wrath upon his head. Their
cry of "False Prophet! False Prophet!" was sounded from village to
village, and every foul epithet that malice and wicked ingenuity
could invent were heaped upon him. Yes, sir; the same spirit that
influenced the Presbyterians of Massachusetts about one hundred and
fifty years ago, in their persecution of the Quakers, when they
first began to preach their doctrines in that state, was fully
manifested by those religious bigots, {394} who were afraid if they
let them alone, their own doctrines would come to naught. What was
the result of the persecution in Massachusetts? Why, sir, warrants
were made out by those churches having authority, and the Quakers
were tried for heresy. But what was the result of those trials. The
sentence of death was passed upon the Quakers for heresy by those
religious fanatics, and three of them were hanged by the neck on
Bloody Hill, in Boston, to make expiation for that unpardonable
crime. "Tell it not in Gath," nor publish it not on the tops of
the mountains in this boasted land of freedom, that the Puritans
of New England, who had fled from the Old World in consequence
of religious intolerance, that they might enjoy the sweets of
liberty, so soon became persecutors themselves, and shed innocent
blood, which still cries aloud from the dust for vengeance upon
their heads. Let shame cover our faces when we mention the name of
freedom in our grand republic.
O my God! when in one portion of our country blood is flowing from
the crime of worshiping our Creator according to the dictates of
conscience, or as the Spirit directs, and in the other are great
rejoicings in consequence thereof, where, I ask, is the boasted
freedom for which our fathers fought and bled?
O Thou who holdest the destinies of all things in Thine hands
here below, return these blessings unto us, that we may keep
them as precious jewels till time is no more. But, Mr. Chairman,
I am wandering too far from the subject. I will return to the
persecutions which followed General Smith, when his cheeks
blossomed with the beauty of youth, and his eyes sparkled with
innocence.
These bigots soon made up a false accusation against him, and had
him arraigned before Joseph Chamberlain, a justice of the peace, a
man who was always ready to deal out justice to all, and a man of
great discernment of mind.
The case came up about 10 o'clock a.m. I was called upon to defend
the prisoner, the prosecutors employed the best counsel they could
get, and ransacked the town of Bainbridge and county of Chenango
for witnesses that would swear hard enough to convict the prisoner;
but they entirely failed. Yes, sir; let me say to you that not one
blemish nor spot was found against his character. He came from that
trial, notwithstanding the mighty efforts that were made to convict
him of crime by his vigilant persecutors, with his character
unstained by even the appearance of guilt.
The trial closed about twelve o'clock at night. After a few
moments' deliberation, the court pronounced the words, "Not
guilty," and the prisoner was discharged. But, alas! the devil, not
satisfied with his defeat, stirred up a man not unlike himself, who
was more fit to dwell {395} among the fiends of hell than to belong
to the human family, to go to Colesville and get another writ and
take him to Broome county for another trial. They were sure they
could send that boy to hell or to Texas, they did not care which;
and in half an hour after he was discharged by the court, he was
arrested again, and on the way to Colesville for another trial.
I was again called upon by his friends to defend him against his
malignant persecutors, and clear him from the false charges they
had preferred against him. I made every reasonable excuse I could,
as I was nearly worn down through fatigue and want of sleep, as I
had been engaged in lawsuits for two days and nearly the whole of
two nights. But I saw the persecution was great against him; and
here let me say, Mr. Chairman, singular as it may seem, while Mr.
Knight was pleading with me to go, a peculiar impression or thought
struck my mind that I must go and defend him, for he was the Lord's
anointed. I did not know what it meant, but thought I must go and
clear the Lord's anointed. I said I would go, and started with as
much faith as the Apostles had when they could remove mountains,
accompanied by Father Knight, who was like the old patriarch that
followed the ark of God to the city of David.
We rode on till we came to the house of Hezekiah Peck, where a
number of Mormon women were assembled, as I was informed, for the
purpose of praying for the deliverance of the Prophet of the Lord.
The women came out to our wagon, and Mrs. Smith among the rest.
O my God, sir, what were my feeling when I saw that woman who
had but a few days before given herself, heart and hand, to be
a consort for life, and that so soon her crimson cheeks must be
wet with tears that came streaming from her eyes! Yes, sir; it
seemed that her very heart strings would be broken with grief. My
feelings, sir, were moved with pity and sorrow for the afflicted,
and on the other hand they were wrought up to the highest pitch of
indignation against those fiends of hell who had thus caused the
innocent to suffer.
The next morning about ten o'clock, the court was organized. The
prisoner was to be tried by three justices of the peace, that his
departure out of the county might be made sure. Neither talents nor
money were wanting to ensure them success. They employed the ablest
lawyer in that county, and introduced twenty witnesses before dark,
but proved nothing.
They sent out runners and ransacked the hills and vales, grog-shops
and ditches, gathered together a company that looked as if they
had come from hell, and had been whipped by the soot-boy thereof,
which they brought forward to testify one after another, but with
no better success. Although they wrung and twisted into every
shape, in trying {396} to tell something that would criminate the
prisoner, nothing was proven against him whatever.
Having got through with the examination of their witnesses about
two o'clock in the morning, the case was argued about two hours.
There was not one particle of testimony against the prisoner. No,
sir; he came out like the three children from the fiery furnace,
without the smell of fire upon his garments.
The court deliberated upon the case for half an hour with closed
doors, and then we were called in. The court arraigned the prisoner
and said--"Mr. Smith, we have had your case under consideration,
examined the testimony, and find nothing to condemn you; and
therefore you are discharged."
They then proceeded to reprimand him severely--not because anything
derogatory to his character in any shape had been proven against
him by the host of witnesses that had testified during the trial,
but merely to please those fiends in human shape who were engaged
in the unhallowed persecution of an innocent man, sheerly on
account of his religious opinions.
After they had got through, I arose and said--"This court puts
me in mind of a certain trial held before Felix of old, when the
enemies of Paul arraigned him before that venerable judge for some
alleged crime, and nothing was found in him worthy of death or
bonds. Yet, to please the Jews who were his accusers, he was left
bound, contrary to law, and the court had served Mr. Smith in the
same way, by their unlawful and uncalled for reprimand after his
discharge to please his accusers."
We got him away that night from the midst of three hundred people
without his receiving any injury; but I am well aware that we were
assisted by some higher power than man; for to look back on the
scene, I cannot tell how we succeeded in getting him away. I take
no glory to myself: it was the Lord's work, and marvelous in our
eyes.
This, Mr. Chairman, is a true history of the first persecution that
came upon General Smith in his youth among professed Christians,
and in a country heralded to the ends of the earth as a land of
freedom, where all men have the constitutional right to worship as
they please and believe what they please, without molestation, so
long as they do not interfere with the rights and privileges of
others--yes, sir; a persecution got up through the influence of
religious bigotry by as vile a set of men as ever disgraced the
family of man. But their devices against him were brought to naught
by the Overruling Power that controls all things and brings to
naught the counsels of the wicked.
Mr. Chairman, little did I think that I was defending a boy that
would rise to eminence like this man--a man whom God delights to
honor as a {397} Prophet and leader of His people--one to whom He
has given the keys of heaven and earth, and the power of David,
and said to him, Whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in
heaven, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against you. And
may he live to put his foot upon the neck of his enemies in love
and meekness! I know, sir, that God has made him a leader of many
thousands of people; and may he teach them in meekness and with
that wisdom and judgment that God shall direct.
I add no more.
The Convention adjourned _sine die_
URIAH BROWN, President,
F. MERRYWEATHER, Secretary.
I rode out in the afternoon.
About 6 p.m., a caucus was held; but, Emma being sick, I could not
attend. At night a large assemblage burned a barrel of tar in the
street. I went out to see what was the matter, and found they were
giving toasts; and as soon as they became aware of my presence; they
carried me on their shoulders twice round the fire, and escorted me to
the Mansion by a band of music.
Elders Franklin D. Richards and Joseph A. Stratton were ordained High
Priests and set apart to go on a mission to England by Elders Brigham
Young and Heber C. Kimball and Willard Richards.
Footnotes:
1. It is to be observed that these delegates named from the various
states were now, and for some time past had been, residents of Nauvoo,
Ill.
2. This was the "former lawyer" who defended the Prophet in his first
prosecution in the State of New York, before local justices of the
peace in Chenango and Broome counties, 1830; See this HISTORY, vol. I,
ch. XX.
{398}
CHAPTER XVIII.
CHARGES AGAINST PRESIDENT SMITH BEFORE THE CIRCUIT COURT--HIS VOLUNTARY
APPEARANCES AT COURT--TREATMENT--RETURN TO NAUVOO.
_Saturday, May 18, 1844.--_At 9 a.m., I went with Heber C. Kimball
to visit President Brigham Young, and afterwards went out to the
regimental training, and also in the afternoon riding on my horse, "Joe
Duncan."
At 5 p.m., two cannons were fired opposite my old house, and the
regiments were dismissed.
The high Council cut off from the Church James Blakesley, Francis M.
Higbee, Charles Ivins, and Austin Cowles, for apostasy.
_Sunday, 19.--_Cloudy morning; rain about noon. I remained at home.
Elder Lyman Wight preached at the stand in the morning. The usual
prayer meeting at 2 p.m. was dispensed with on account of the mud and
rain.
In the evening I talked to the brethren at my house, Esquire Reid, my
old lawyer, being present, W. W. Phelps read my last letter to Henry
Clay to the company.
_Monday, 20.--_Emma continued very sick, and I was with her most of the
time.
At 10 a.m., there was a meeting at the stand for the purpose of
collecting means to enable Elder Lyman Wight to go to Washington.
[Sidenote: Court Session at Carthage.]
The Circuit Court commenced its sitting at Carthage, Judge Thomas
presiding. Brother Phelps and many of the brethren went to Carthage.
Phelps returned in the evening with the intelligence that {399} a
summons was supposed to be issued for me to appear on the same case
on which I was set free by_ habeas corpus_ on the 8th inst. [1] The
lawyers agreed to move an abatement. A good influence in favor of the
Saints appears to have prevailed.
A general court-martial of the Legion was held, Brevet Major General
Hyrum Smith presiding. It was adjourned to the 10th of June next.
_Tuesday, 21.--_A very pleasant morning. I rode out on horseback to the
prairie, with Porter Rockwell and Mr. Reid. At 7 a.m., Elders Brigham
Young, Heber C. Kimball, Lyman Wight, and about a hundred Elders, left
this city on the steamer _Osprey_ (Captain Anderson) for St. Louis.
The_ Maid of Iowa_ arrived at 8 a.m., with sixty-two Saints from the
Eastern States on board, all in good health and spirits. The clerk,
Thomas Bullock, reported the fields on each side of the river covered
with water to the depth of upwards of sixteen feet, and all the farms
on the flats of the Mississippi river were submerged, and the river was
still rising eight inches per day. The _Maid of Iowa_ started up the
river for Wapello on the Iowa river at 3 p.m.
I was at home towards night with Emma, who is somewhat better. I
shoveled dirt out of the ditch, while Wasson stood on the corner of the
fence to watch. An officer arrived having a summons and an attachment
to take me to Carthage, but he could not find me. I rode out in the
evening to see David Yearsley's child, who was sick, and returned home
at 9 p.m.
I copy from the _Times and Seasons_:--
LETTER: GEORGE A. SMITH TO "TIMES AND SEASONS"--CONFERENCE AT
NEWARK, ILLINOIS.
"NEWARK, KENDALL COUNTY, ILL., May 21, 1844.
_Editor of the Times and Seasons_:--
DEAR SIR,--We arrived at Ottawa on the 17th inst., after driving
{400} four days through the constant rains, and over roads almost
impassable for man or beast. We were soon informed that the
conference was removed twenty miles up Fox River, at the Newark
Branch.
Notice had been given for a political address to be delivered
in the Court House in the evening by one of the Twelve; several
hundred citizens assembled, and were addressed by Elder G. A.
Smith. The speaker considered General Smith the smartest man in
the United States, and best calculated to fill the presidential
chair, which was applauded by the assembly. His political views as
presented on that occasion seemed to please most of the people. At
the close of the speech the congregation quietly dispersed. Elder
Woodruff continued his journey ten miles, and held a meeting with
the LaSalle Branch of 46 members, mostly emigrants from Norway.
On the 18th we arrived at Newark, and attended the Conference
according to appointment.
The following is a copy of the minutes, which we forward for
publication:--
NEWARK, KENDALL COUNTY, ILL., May 18, 1844.
Conference convened pursuant to notice.
There were present two of the quorum of the Twelve, one High
Priest, two Seventies, nine Elders, one Priest, and one Teacher.
Conference called to order by Elder Woodruff.
Elder George A. Smith called to the chair.
Conference opened by singing, and prayer by the president.
Representation of the several branches was called for, when the
following branches were represented as follows:
Newark Branch, 35 members, 1 Elder, 1 Teacher; Lasalle Branch, 46
members, 2 Elders: Ottawa Branch, 16 members, 2 Elders; Bureau
Branch, 15 members, 3 Elders; Pleasant Grove, McHenry County, 19
members, 2 Elders; Indian Creek Branch, 5 members; Big Vermillion
Branch, 4 members; French Creek Grove Branch, 2 members. Total 133
members, 10 Elders, and 1 Teacher,
Canute Petersen, Severt Olson, Zimri H. Baxter, Levi Lightfoot, S.
D. Huffaker, Mades Madison, Vance Jacobs, and Oder Jacobson, were
ordained Priests; Ole Johnson and Peter Maclin ordained Teachers,
under the hands of Elders Wilford Woodruff, Geo. A. Smith, and Ezra
Thayer.
Appropriate remarks were then made by Elders Woodruff and Smith
by way of counsel and instruction to those who had been ordained;
followed by Elder David Savage.
Adjourned until Sunday morning, 10 o'clock.
Sunday, 19th.
Met according to adjournment.
Opened by singing and prayer by Elder a.m. Wilsey.
{401} A discourse was then delivered by Elder Wilford Woodruff, in
which he instructed the Elders to be careful to preach the first
principles of the Gospel and doctrines of Christ, and not to spend
their time in warring with the opinions of other men; showed the
importance of revelation, and the necessity of a Prophet of God,
as the head of the Church on earth, being as necessary in order to
exist and advance in knowledge as for a natural body to possess a
head in order to live. He considered we were enjoying the society
of as good a Prophet in this day as any people ever enjoyed in any
age of the world, and believed all good men would think so, if they
were fully acquainted with him and his principles.
He was followed by Elder Geo. A. Smith, who bore testimony to the
truth of the fullness of the Gospel, counseled the Elders to be
humble, and not get head and shoulders above their brethren, lest
they fall, like the tallest trees of the forest, that are first
swept down by the raging storm.
Two o'clock, met according to adjournment, when the sacrament
was administered, and many testimonies given from the Elders and
members present concerning the truth of the work they had received.
Conference was dismissed amid the best of feelings, which
were manifested not only by all the Saints, but by the whole
congregation of citizens that attended. Good order prevailed
through the whole conference. Attention, kindness, and civility,
were manifested by all.
GEO. A. SMITH, President.
ASA MANCHESTER, Clerk.
At the close of the Conference, Elders C. C. Rich, David Fullmer,
Norton Jacobs, and Moses Smith arrived direct from Nauvoo, on their
way to Michigan.
20th--We have appointed a political meeting in Newark, this
evening, and one at Joliet tomorrow evening, where we expect to
present to the citizens General Smith's Views of the Powers and
Policy of the Government, and discuss the subject of politics.
WILFORD WOODRUFF.
GEO. A. SMITH.
_Wednesday, 22.--_At home, watching, as the officers from Carthage were
after me.
[Sidenote: Visit of Sac and Fox Indians to Nauvoo.]
At 10 a.m., about 40 Indians of the Sacs and Foxes came up in front of
the Mansion, four or five of them being mounted, among whom was Black
Hawk's brother, Kis-kish-kee, &c. I was obliged to send word I could
not see them at present. They encamped in the Council Chamber afternoon
{402} and night. I was with the police on duty, and saw several
individuals lurking around.
Very pleasant day.
President Brigham Young preached to the brethren in St. Louis this
evening.
_Thursday, 23.--_Emma rather better. Read Hebrew with Neibaur, and
counseled with various friends.
At 10 a.m., the Municipal Court met, Newel K. Whitney presiding; but
there not being a quorum present, adjourned for one week.
[Sidenote: Address of the Prophet to the Indians.]
At one p.m., had a talk with the Sac and Fox Indians in my back
kitchen. They said--"When our fathers first came here, this land was
inhabited by the Spanish; when the Spaniards were driven off, the
French came, and then the English and Americans; and our fathers talked
a great deal with the Big Spirit." They complained that they had been
robbed of their lands by the whites, and cruelly treated.
I told them I knew they had been wronged, but that we had bought this
land and paid our money for it. I advised them not to sell any more
land, but to cultivate peace with the different tribes and with all
men, as the Great Spirit wanted them to be united and to live in peace.
"The Great Spirit has enabled me to find a book [showing them the Book
of Mormon], which told me about your fathers, and Great Spirit told me,
'You must send to all the tribes that you can, and tell them to live in
peace;' and when any of our people come to see you, I want you to treat
them as we treat you."
At 3 p.m., the Indians commenced a war dance in front of my old house.
Our people commenced with music and firing cannon. After the dance,
which lasted about two hours, the firing of cannon closed the exercise,
and with our music marched back to the office. Before they commenced
dancing, the Saints took up a collection to get the Indians food.
{403} A. A. Lathrop came to my clerk, Dr. Richards, and told him an
officer was on his way with an attachment for him, and that the grand
jury had found a bill against me for adultery, on the testimony of
William Law; he had come from Carthage in two hours and thirty minutes
to bring the news. Dr. Richards came to my house and stayed all night.
Aaron Johnson came from Carthage, and said that Foster had been
swearing that I swore to the complaint on which Simpson was arrested. I
instructed Johnson and Rockwell to go to Carthage in the morning, and
have him indicted for perjury, as I never did swear to the complaint.
The officer was after John D. Parker also, and report says Brigham
Young, Heber C. Kimball and W. Clayton.
Past nine p.m., I walked a little way with Dr. Richards for exercise.
[Sidenote: Hyrum's Caution to the Prophet on the Freedom of Speaking.]
My brother Hyrum called in the evening, and cautioned me against
speaking so freely about my enemies, &c., in such a manner as to make
it actionable. I told him that six months would not roll over his head
before they would swear twelve as palpable lies about him as they had
about me.
President Brigham Young left St. Louis at noon in the steamboat _Louis
Philippe_.
_Friday, 24.--_With my family all day.
Aaron Johnson and Orrin P. Rockwell went to Carthage to get Robert D.
Foster indicted; but they returned again as the grand jury had risen.
Joseph H. Jackson was at Carthage, and had sworn falsely against me.
At 6 p.m., went to Dr. Bernhisel's room, and had counsel with Brothers
Richards and Phelps. I ordered a meeting of the City Council for
tomorrow, and returned to my family after being absent about one hour.
The Central Committee wrote a letter to Hugh Clark Esq.:--
{404} _Letter: Central Campaign Committee to Hugh Clark,
Esq.,--Presidential Election Matters_.
NAUVOO, ILLINOIS, May 24, 1844.
SIR.--Having received your address through our mutual friend, Mr.
Edward Doughty, we forward with this per next mail the Nauvoo
_Neighbor_ of the 22nd inst., through which you will learn the
doings of a State Convention held in this place on the 17th; and
this communication has been drawn forth, in a great degree, through
our sympathies for a people who are now being mobbed in the city
of brotherly love (Philadelphia) as we have been for many years
in Missouri; and for what? For our religion, although called by
another name.
The Mormons and the Catholics are the most obnoxious to the
sectarian world of any people, and are the only two who have not
persecuted each other and others in these the United States, and
the only two who have suffered from the cruel hand of mobocracy
for their religion under the name of foreigners; and to stay this
growing evil, and establish Jeffersonian democracy, free trade
and sailor's rights, and protection of person and property, we
have nominated General Joseph Smith for the next president of
the nation--a man with whom we are thoroughly acquainted, and
have no fear in pledging our lives, our fortunes and our sacred
honor, that, if elected, he will give and secure these inestimable
blessings to every individual and society of men, no matter what
their religious faith. Help us to elect this man, and we will help
you to secure these privileges which belong to you, and break every
yoke.
You will please to consider yourself a member of the corresponding
committee with us, agreeable to the resolution of the State
Convention, and lay this subject before your people, giving us your
views on receipt hereof, and open such correspondence as wisdom
shall dictate.
General Smith's prospects are brightening every day. With
sentiments of the highest consideration, we are your obedient
servants,
WILLARD RICHARDS,
JOHN M. BERNHISEL,
W. W. PHELPS,
LUCIAN R. FOSTER,
Central Committee of Correspondence for the Election of General
Joseph Smith to the Presidency.
HUGH CLARK, ESQ. Alderman.
Corner of Fourth and Masters Street, Northern Liberties,
Philadelphia.
Rainy evening.
A conference was held at Chicago, Alfred Cordon, president, and James
Burgess, clerk. Eleven Elders were {405} present, and a very favorable
impression was made upon the minds of the people.
[Sidenote: Reported Indictments of the Prophet.]
_Saturday, 25.--_At home, keeping out of the way of the expected writs
from Carthage. Towards evening, Edward Hunter and William Marks, of
the grand jury returned from Carthage; also Marshal John P. Greene and
Almon W. Babbitt, who informed me there were two indictments found
against me, one charging me with false swearing on the testimony of
Joseph H. Jackson and Robert D. Foster, and one charging me with
polygamy, or something else, on the testimony of William Law, that I
had told him so! The particulars of which I shall learn hereafter.
There was much false swearing before the grand jury. Francis M.
Higbee swore so hard that I had received stolen property, &c., that
his testimony was rejected. I heard that Joseph H. Jackson had come
into the city. I therefore instructed the officers to arrest him for
threatening to take life, &c.
I had a long talk with Edward Hunter, my brother Hyrum, Dr. Richards,
William Marks, Almon W. Babbitt, Shadrach Roundy, Edward Romney and
others, and concluded not to keep out of the way of the officers any
longer.
At 2 p.m. I was in council in my north room, and heard the letters from
Elder O. Hyde read, and instructed Dr. Richards to write an answer,
which he did as follows:
_Letter:--Willard Richards to Orson Hyde--Answering Hyde's Letter
on Western Movement_.
NAUVOO, May 26, 1844.
_Orson Hyde, Esq_.:
SIR.--Yours of April 30th is received. The council convened this
afternoon, and, after investigation, directed an answer, which must
be brief to correspond with the press of business.
All the items you refer to had previously received the deliberation
of the council.
{406} Messrs. Lyman Wight and Heber C. Kimball will doubtless be in
Washington before you receive this, from whom you will learn all
things relative to Texas, &c. Our great success at present depends
upon our faith in the doctrine of election; and our faith must be
made manifest by our works and every honorable exertion made to
elect Gen. Smith.
Agricultural pursuits will take care of themselves, regulating
their own operations and the rich also; but the poor we must gather
and take care of, for they are to inherit the kingdom.
Nauvoo will be a "corner stake of Zion" forever, we most assuredly
expect. Here are the house and the ordinance, extend where else we
may.
Press the bills through the two houses, if possible. If Congress
will not pass them, let them do as they have a mind with them. If
they will not pass our bills, but will give us "something," they
will give what they please, and it will be at our option to accept
or reject.
Men who are afraid of "hazarding their influence" in the councilor
political arena are good for nothing. 'Tis the fearless, undaunted
and persevering who will gain the conquest of the forum.
Sidney Rigdon, Esq., is about to resign the postoffice at Nauvoo,
in favor of Gen. Joseph Smith, the founder of the city. He has the
oldest petitions now on file in the general postoffice for that
station, and has an undoubted claim over every other petitioner, by
being the founder and supporter of the city, and by the voice of
nineteen-twentieths of the people; and every sacred consideration;
and it is the wish of the council that you engage the Illinois
delegation to use their influence to secure the office to General
Smith without fail, and have them ready to act on the arrival of
Mr. Rigdon's resignation, and before too, if expedient.
We are also writing to Justin Butterfield, Esq., U. S. Attorney
for the district of Illinois, who has kindly offered his services
to secure the post office to the General, he having been here and
seen for himself the situation; and probably his letter to the
department will arrive nearly as soon as this.
The election on the principle of Jeffersonian democracy, free
trade, and protection of person and property, is gaining ground in
every quarter. All is well in Nauvoo, although some of the Anties
are trying to do us injury; but their efforts are palsied, and they
make very little headway. You remember the Preston motto, "Truth
will prevail!" [2] Therefore we go ahead.
{407} You have the best wishes of the council and friends here. I
am, sir, most respectfully yours,
W. RICHARDS, Recorder.
By order of the council.
N. B. Your families and friends were well last information.
Sidney Rigdon resigned the office of postmaster of Nauvoo, and
recommended me as his successor.
The _Maid of Iowa_ arrived at five p.m.
The High Council have directed the following testimony to be published
in the _Neighbor_, I copy it with the editor's remarks, to show the
character of the men who are now seeking to destroy my life and
usefulness, and overthrow the work of the Lord which He has commenced
through my instrumentality:
[Here follow the affidavits of Margaret J. Nyman, Matilda J. Nyman,
Sarah Miller, and an extract from the testimony of Catherine Warren
before the High Council of the Church to the effect that Chauncey
L. Higbee had brought about their ruin by deceit in representing
that Joseph Smith taught that promiscuous sexual relations were not
sinful when kept secret, and by this misrepresentation he, the said
Chauncey L. Higbee, accomplished his wicked purposes].
_Editorial Comment_.
We have abundance of like testimony on hand which may be
forthcoming if we are compelled; at present the foregoing may
suffice.
"Why have you not published this before?" We answer--on account of
the humility and entreaties of Higbee at the time; and on account
of the feelings of his parents, who are highly respectable, we
have forborne until now. The character of Chauncey L. Higbee is so
infamous, and his exertions such as to destroy every principle of
righteousness, that forbearance is no longer a virtue.
After all that this Chauncey L. Higbee has done in wickedly and
maliciously using the name of Joseph Smith to persuade innocent
females to submit to gratify his hellish lusts, and then blast the
character of the most chaste, pure, virtuous and philanthropic man
on earth, he, to screen himself from the law of the land and the
just indignation of an insulted people, and save himself from the
penitentiary, or whatever punishment his unparalleled crimes merit,
has entered into a conspiracy with the Laws and others against
the lives of those who are knowing to his abandoned conduct, thus
hoping to save himself from the disgrace which must follow an
exposure, and wreak his vengeance and gratify his revenge for his
awful disappointment.
[Sidenote: Conference in Jefferson Co., N.Y.]
{408} A two days' conference was held in Jefferson county, New York,
at 10 a.m. Present 300 Saints, 150 of whom had embraced the Gospel
since last autumn. Nine branches were represented, containing 289
members, 16 Elders, 8 Priests and 1 Teacher. An immense concourse of
people assembled to hear the Elders preach. Elder Benjamin Brown was
President, and J. W. Crosby, Clerk.
[Sidenote: Conference, Dresden, Tenn.]
A three days' conference was held at Dresden, Weakly county, Tennessee.
Elder A. O. Smoot was chosen president, and D. P. Raney, secretary. A
large congregation assembled, but the proceedings were interrupted by
a mob headed by some of the leading men of the county; yet a candidate
for elector was appointed by my friends.
_Sunday, 26.--_At 10 a.m. I preached at the Stand. The following
synopsis was reported by Mr. Thos. Bullock, clerk of the steamer, _Maid
of Iowa_.
_Address of the Prophet--His Testimony Against the Dissenters at
Nauvoo_.
President Joseph Smith read the 11th Chap. II Corinthians. My
object is to let you know that I am right here on the spot where
I intend to stay. I, like Paul, have been in perils, and oftener
than anyone in this generation. As Paul boasted, I have suffered
more than Paul did. I should be like a fish out of water, if I were
out of persecutions. Perhaps my brethren think it requires all
this to keep me humble. The Lord has constituted me so curiously
that I glory in persecution. I am not nearly so humble as if I
were not persecuted. If oppression will make a wise man mad, much
more a fool. If they want a beardless boy to whip all the world, I
will get on the top of a mountain and crow like a rooster: I shall
always beat them. When facts are proved, truth and innocence will
prevail at last. My enemies are no philosophers: they think that
when they have my spoke under, they will keep me down; but for the
fools, I will hold on and fly over them.
God is in the still small voice. In all these affidavits,
indictments, it is all of the devil--all corruption. Come on! ye
prosecutors! ye false swearers! All hell, boil over! Ye burning
mountains, roll down your lava! for I will come out on the top at
last. I have more to boast of than ever any man had. I am the only
man that has ever been able to keep a whole church together since
the days {409} of Adam. A large majority of the whole have stood
by me. Neither Paul, John, Peter, nor Jesus ever did it. I boast
that no man ever did such a work as I. The followers of Jesus ran
away from Him; but the Latter-day Saints never ran away from me
yet. You know my daily walk and conversation. I am in the bosom of
a virtuous and good people. How I do love to hear the wolves howl!
When they can get rid of me, the devil will also go. For the last
three years I have a record of all my acts and proceedings, for I
have kept several good, faithful, and efficient clerks in constant
employ: they have accompanied me everywhere, and carefully kept my
history, and they have written down what I have done, where I have
been, and what I have said; therefore my enemies cannot charge me
with any day, time, or place, but what I have written testimony
to prove my actions; and my enemies cannot prove anything against
me. They have got wonderful things in the land of Ham. I think the
grand jury have strained at a gnat and swallowed the camel.
A man named Simpson says I made an affidavit against him, &c. Mr.
Simpson says I arrested him. I never arrested Mr. Simpson in my
life. He says I made an affidavit against him. I never made an
affidavit against him in my life. I will prove it in court. I will
tell you how it was: Last winter I got ready with my children to
go to the farm to kill hogs. Orrin P. Rockwell was going to drive.
An Englishman came in and wanted a private conversation with me. I
told him I did not want any private conversations. "I demand one
of you!" Such a one I am bound to obey anyhow. Said he--"I want
a warrant against the man who stabbed Brother Badham." He said it
was a man who boarded at Davis'. He said it was Mr. Simpson--it
answered his description. I said I had no jurisdiction out of the
city. He said--"The man must be arrested, or else he will go away."
I told him--"You must go to Squire Wells, Johnson, or Foster." Mr.
Lytle stepped up and said--"I am a policeman." I jumped into my
carriage, and away I went.
When I came back I met Mr. Jackson. He said--"You did wrong in
arresting Mr. Simpson." I told him I did not do it. I went over
and sat down, and related the circumstances. He turned round and
said--"Mr. Smith, I have nothing against you; I am satisfied." He
went and supped with me. He declared in the presence of witnesses,
that he had nothing against me. I then said--"I will go over to
Esquire Johnson, and testify what the Englishman told me." I told
him not to make out that I believe he is the man, but that I
believe he is innocent. I don't want to swear that he is the man.
Messrs. Coolidge, Rockwell, Hatfield, and Hawes were present.
Mr. Johnson made one [a complaint] out in due form: and as I sat
down in a bustle the same as I do when one of the clerks brings a
deed for {410} me to sign. Johnson read it. I said--"I can't swear
to that affidavit; I don't believe it; tear up that paper." Mr.
Simpson agreed to come before Badham and make it up. I did not
swear to it [_i. e._ to the complaint.]
After a while, Dr. Foster and others came in. They called me up
to testify. I told it all the same as I do here. Mr. Simpson rose
up, and asked--"Do you believe now that I am the man who stabbed
Mr. Badham?" I replied--"No sir, I do not now, nor ever did: the
magistrate says I did not swear to it." He considered, and made a
public declaration that he was satisfied with me.
Aaron Johnson went before the grand jury and swore I did not swear
to it, when Dr. Foster goes and swears that I swore to it, and that
he was in the room when he was not in. Chauncey wanted me to stay
and have a conversation. Dr. Foster asked Aaron Johnson for the
writ and affidavit. He handed them to Dr. Foster, who read them,
and then threw them into the fire. I said--"Doctor, you ought not
to have burned it; it was my paper." Dr. Foster goes to the grand
jury and swears he did not burn only one; but I say he burnt both.
This is a fair sample of the swearing that is going on against me.
The last discharge was the 40th; now the 41st, 42nd, 43rd; all
through falsehood. Matters of fact are as profitable as the Gospel,
and which I can prove. You will then know who are liars, and who
speak the truth I want to retain your friendship on holy grounds.
Another indictment has been got up against me. It appears a holy
prophet has arisen up, and he has testified against me; the reason
is, he is so holy. The Lord knows I do not care how many churches
are in the world. As many as believe me, may. If the doctrine that
I preach is true, the tree must be good. I have prophesied things
that have come to pass, and can still.
Inasmuch as there is a new church, this must be old, and of course
we ought to be set down as orthodox. From henceforth let all the
churches now no longer persecute orthodoxy. I never built upon any
other man's ground. I never told the old Catholic that he was a
fallen true prophet God knows, then, that the charges against me
are false.
I had not been married scarcely five minutes, and made one
proclamation of the Gospel, before it was reported that I had seven
wives. I mean to live and proclaim the truth as long as I can.
This new holy prophet [William Law] has gone to Carthage and swore
that I had told him that I was guilty of adultery. This spiritual
wifeism! Why, a man dares not speak or wink, for fear of being
accused of this.
William Law testified before forty policemen, and the assembly
room full of witnesses, that he testified under oath that he never
had heard or seen or knew anything immoral or criminal against me.
He testified {411} under oath that he was my friend, and not the
"Brutus." There was a cogitation who was the "Brutus." I had not
prophesied against William Law. He swore under oath that he was
satisfied that he was ready to lay down his life for me, and he
swears that I have committed adultery.
I wish the grand jury would tell me who they are--whether it will
be a curse or blessing to me. I am quite tired of the fools asking
me.
A man asked me whether the commandment was given that a man may
have seven wives; and now the new prophet has charged me with
adultery. I never had any fuss with these men until that Female
Relief Society brought out the paper against adulterers and
adulteresses.
Dr. Goforth was invited into the Laws' clique, and Dr. Foster and
the clique were dissatisfied with that document, and they rush
away and leave the Church, and conspire to take away my life; and
because I will not countenance such wickedness, they proclaim that
I have been a true prophet, but that I am now a fallen prophet.
Jackson has committed murder, robbery, and perjury; and I can prove
it by half-a-dozen witnesses. Jackson got up and said--"By God, he
is innocent," and now swears that I am guilty. He threatened my
life.
There is another Law, not the prophet, who was cashiered for
dishonesty and robbing the government. Wilson Law also swears that
I told him I was guilty of adultery. Brother Jonathan Dunham can
swear to the contrary. I have been chained. I have rattled chains
before in a dungeon for the truth's sake. I am innocent of all
these charges, and you can bear witness of my innocence, for you
know me yourselves.
When I love the poor, I ask no favors of the rich. I can go to
the cross--I can lay down my life; but don't forsake me. I want
the friendship of my brethren.--Let us teach the things of Jesus
Christ. Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before
a downfall.
Be meek and lowly, upright and pure; render good for evil. If you
bring on yourselves your own destruction, I will complain. It is
not right for a man to bare down his neck to the oppressor always.
Be humble and patient in all circumstances of life; we shall then
triumph more gloriously. What a thing it is for a man to be accused
of committing adultery, and having seven wives, when I can only
find one.
I am the same man, and as innocent as I was fourteen years ago;
and I can prove them all perjurers. I labored with these apostates
myself until I was out of all manner of patience; and then I sent
my brother Hyrum, whom they virtually kicked out of doors.
I then sent Mr. Backenstos, when they declared that they were my
enemies. I told Mr. Backenstos that he might tell the Laws, if they
had any cause against me I would go before the Church, and confess
it {412} to the world. He [Wm. Law] was summoned time and again,
but refused to come. Dr. Bernhisel and Elder Rigdon know that I
speak the truth. I cite you to Captain Dunham, Esquires Johnson and
Wells, Brother Hatfield and others, for the truth of what I have
said. I have said this to let my friends know that I am right.
As I grow older, my heart grows tenderer for you. I am at all
times willing to give up everything that is wrong, for I wish this
people to have a virtuous leader, I have set your minds at liberty
by letting you know the things of Christ Jesus. When I shrink not
from your defense will you throw me away for a new man who slanders
you? I love you for your reception of me. Have I asked you for your
money? No; you know better. I appeal to the poor. I say, Cursed
be that man or woman who says that I have taken of your money
unjustly. Brother Babbitt will address you. I have nothing in my
heart but good feelings.
I rode out in the afternoon. On my return, my lawyers, Col. Richardson
and Almon W. Babbitt, called upon me on the subject of the writs which
were out against me.
[Sidenote: Threat to Kidnap Jeremiah Smith.]
A man called and informed me that John Eagle and several others
intended to kidnap Jeremiah Smith during the night. I therefore
stationed an extra police in order to protect him.
President Brigham Young arrived at Cincinnati at 5 p.m.
[Sidenote: President Smith Voluntarily goes to Carthage to Meet
Indictments.]
_Monday, 27.--_About 8 a.m., I started on horseback with a few friends,
went by the Temple, and purchased my course towards Carthage, thinking
it best for me to meet my enemies before the Circuit Court, and have
the indictments against me investigated. After I had passed my farm
on the prairie, most of the following brethren joined my company, and
the remainder soon after my arrival in Carthage--viz.: Aaron Johnson,
Dr. Bernhisel, Joseph W. Coolidge, John Hatfield, Orrin P. Rockwell,
Lorenzo Rockwell, William Walker, Harrison Sagers, Hyrum Smith, John
P. Greene, Judge William Richards, Shadrach Roundy, Theodore Turley,
Jedediah M. Grant, John Lytle, Joseph B. Noble, Edward Bonney, Lucien
Woodworth, Cornelius P. Lott, Johathan Dunham, and other friends.
{413} We arrived at Hamilton's hotel about noon. Charles A. Foster
overtook us three or four miles from the city, and accompanied us to
Carthage. I had considerable conversation with him, and he appeared to
be more mild than previously, and as though he was almost persuaded
that he had been influenced to some extent by false reports.
Joseph H. Jackson, Francis M. Higbee, and Chauncey L. Higbee were in
Hamilton's hotel when we arrived. Soon after our arrival there, Charles
A. Foster took me into a private room and told me in a friendly manner
that there was a conspiracy against my life. Robert D. Foster told some
of the brethren (with tears in his eyes) that there was evil determined
against me; and that there were some persons who were determined I
should not go out of Carthage alive. Jackson was seen to reload his
pistols, and was heard to swear he would have satisfaction of me and
Hyrum.
I had a short interview with Judge Thomas, who treated me with the
utmost courtesy. He is a great man and a gentleman. After dinner (at
the second or third table) we retired to our room, when Jackson, who
had been to the Court House, came towards the hotel. Some person told
him Hyrum had arrived, when he immediately turned towards the Court
House again.
My lawyers, Messrs. Richardson, Babbitt, and Skinner, used all
reasonable exertions to bring forward my trial on the charge of
perjury; but the prosecuting party were not ready,--one Withers, a
material witness (as they asserted in court), being absent.
My attorneys frequently called on me to report the state of things in
court, and I was ready to go in at a moment's warning, being anxious
for my trial; but the case was deferred till next term. I was left to
give bail to the sheriff at his option. He told me I might go home,
where he would call and take bail at his own convenience.
We immediately called for our horses; and while they {414} were being
harnessed, Chauncey L. Higbee came to me and wanted me to stay as
a witness in a certain case in which he was employed as attorney.
He urged me considerably, but I told him I did not recollect the
occurrence he referred to particularly enough to testify in the case,
and got him to excuse me.
[Sidenote: The Return to Nauvoo.]
At half-past four p.m., we started on our return; but when we had got
as far as Brother George D. Grant's, a heavy shower of rain commenced,
and I went into the house, while most of the brethren went into the
barn until the shower abated. After the storm had subsided, we went
forward, and I, Hyrum, and some others arrived at home about 9 p.m.,
and found Emma sick. My carriage, with Joseph B. Noble, arrived a
little after. It was upset on the Temple Hill, but no one was hurt. I
rode on horseback all the way on "Joe Duncan."
As we left the tavern in Carthage, and passed the Court House, there
were many people about in small groups. Jackson stood on the green with
one or two men some distance off.
While at Hamilton's, Chauncey L. Higbee offered some insulting language
concerning me to Orrin P. Rockwell, who resented it nobly as a friend
ought to do. Hamilton, seeing it, turned Rockwell out of doors.
It was afterwards reported to me by James Flack that Robert D. Foster,
Charles A. Foster, Wm. B. Rollinson, and the Higbees were on the hill
when I passed in the morning. They immediately gathered their pistols,
mounted their horses, and were in Carthage before me, excepting Charles
A. Foster.
Also Mr. Powers was talking with Mr. Davies, a tailor, about my going
to Carthage, and said they would attempt to kill Joseph Smith. Mr.
Davies replied, "O no, I think not." Mr. Powers rejoined, "They will,
by G--; and you know it, by G--."
Samuel Smith, of Montebello, heard at five this morning, {415} that I
had been taken prisoner to Carthage by a mob. He immediately gathered a
company of twenty-five men for the purpose of assisting me, and arrived
at Carthage about the time I did.
Footnotes:
1. Case of Chauncey L. Higbee vs. Joseph Smith, See Ch. XVI.
2. Referring to the motto that was displayed in the streets of Preston,
England, the arrival of Elders Kimball and Hyde as missionaries to that
city in 1837. See this HISTORY, vol. II, pp. 498-9.
{416}
CHAPTER XIX.
CASE OF JEREMIAH SMITH BEFORE MUNICIPAL COURT AT NAUVOO--AFFIDAVITS OF
CRIMES OF CHAUNCEY L. HIGBEE--APPEARANCE OF THE "EXPOSITOR."
_Tuesday, 28.--_At home all day. Rain in the afternoon. The _Maid of
Iowa_ started for the Iowa river at 11 a.m.
I received a letter from Mr. J. Bronder, dated Philadelphia, May 20th,
expressing his strong desires that I should allow my name to stand as
candidate for the Presidency of the United States, urging many reasons
for his request.
_Wednesday, 29.--_At home. Rain in the morning.
[Sidenote: Arrest of Jeremiah Smith, by U.S. Authority.]
Luther W. Hicock, of Burlington, Iowa, came in and arrested Jeremiah
Smith on a warrant issued by Nathanial Pope, Judge of the U. S. Circuit
Court. During our conversation in the afternoon we learned to our
mutual joy that Jeremiah Smith and I were of one origin.
Received the following letter:
_Letter: D. S. Hollister to Joseph Smith--Presidential Election
Matters_.
BALTIMORE, May 9th, 1844.
DEAR BROTHER JOSEPH.--From the time of my departure to that of my
arrival here on Saturday last, I was blessed with prosperity. The
feelings manifested by the passengers on the boat to St. Louis were
quite favorable.
At St. Louis I embarked on board the steamer _Valley Forge_, with
about 125 cabin passengers. I gradually introduced myself to those
whose faces gave indications of honest hearts and intelligent minds.
On Sunday I was invited to give, in a public discourse, the points
of difference between faith of the Latter-day Saints and other
professors of {417} the Christian religion. There was a Methodist
preacher on board, with whom arrangements were made, to follow
me and blow Mormonism to the four winds. Well, I led off in a
discourse of an hour and a half. After dinner the Methodists tried
to rally their preacher; but he could not be induced to undertake
the fulfillment of his engagements.
I spent the time in conversing with groups of inquirers, and
giving further information to those who sought it. After tea, the
Methodist priest was, by much persuasion, induced to preach; but,
to the astonishment of all, never once mentioned "Mormonism."
By-the-by, we had a beautiful specimen of Missouri treatment of the
Saints on board. While I was speaking, I referred to the many false
statements which found their way to the public through the papers.
A case in point was that of Joseph Smith having just discarded his
wife.
After I had finished speaking, and was standing on the guard of
the boat, a Missourian stepped up to me, asking me if I wished
to be understood that all who said Jo Smith had discarded his
wife were liars. On my answering him in the affirmative, he drew
his bowie knife on me; but some passengers, who had heard him
threaten my life, were watching, and caught him as he was in the
act of striking and I in the act of pitching him overboard; but
they saved him, and I am glad of it. The whole affair turned much
to my advantage. It was an ocular demonstration to the crowd of
Missourians' feeling toward the Church of Christ.
By this time the way was pretty well paved for introducing national
matters; and from this on to our arrival at Wheeling, the time
was principally occupied on that subject--reading your views on
political economy, &c.
On arriving at Wheeling, a stranger might have imagined me to be a
man of some consequence, for it was, "Will you take a seat in our
coach?" "Go with us in this stage." "Hold on, and take a seat with
us," says the third. In fact, the Mormon was quite a lion among the
passengers.
But passing the minutiae, I arrived in the city two days after the
great Whig convention. All is joy and enthusiasm among the Whigs,
while doubt and consternation are manifested among the Democrats.
The convention has been got up at an immense expense; hundreds of
thousands of dollars have been expended.
The Democratic convention comes off on the 27th inst. In the
meantime I shall do what is in my power for the promotion of the
good cause, and endeavor to be well accoutered for that occasion.
I expect to co-operate with Hyde, Pratt and Page, though as yet I
have not heard from them.
{418} I shall expect to receive from you the proceedings of the
convention held at Nauvoo on Monday last, together with such
instructions as you deem proper to give.
D. S. HOLLISTER.
[Sidenote: Municipal Court--Case of Jeremiah Smith.]
_Thursday, 30.--_Municipal Court met at 10 a.m., over which I presided
as mayor and chief justice. Present, William Marks, Orson Spencer,
George W. Harris, Gustavus Hills and Samuel Bennett, alderman,
associate justices Jeremiah Smith, Sen., was brought up on _habeas
corpus_ from the custody of T. B. Johnson, the complainant.
T. B. Johnson being called by the court answered that he did not
acknowledge the jurisdiction of this court; that his writ was only to
keep Smith until he could get another writ for him; that Mr. Hickock
had a writ from Judge Pope, and he considered Mr. Smith his prisoner,
and he attended this court as a matter of courtesy; and if any one
offered resistance, he was instructed by Government to give their
names, &c., and wrote the names of the court, &c.
Smith's counsel replied to such a subterfuge writ.
The court thought it due the court to hear the reasons why the
jurisdiction of the court was not regarded.
T. B. Johnson said he did not come to make a speech; but was instructed
to arrest the man. He intended to make no defense. He was an agent of
the United States. "Your writ of _habeas corpus_ had nothing more to
do with this case than with a man in the moon. I have not been able to
get authority, and did not come to make defense." Read from Charles B.
Penrose's handwriting (so purporting) 33 sec. of Act Sept. 24th, 1789,
Act of Congress. Had agreed to wait the decision of this court, but had
not agreed to abide the decision.
James A. McCanse was called by the court and asked, "Do you subscribe
to the decision of Mr. Johnson in the matter?"
McCanse would not decide. Would like counsel.
{419} T. B. Johnson said he did not ask any favors of the court. He was
a United States agent.
Councilor Hugins said--"If McCanse surrenders his claim we will not go
into the merits of the case; but if McCanse claims the prisoner, we
will go into the merits."
Councilor Hugins read a petition of Jeremiah Smith for another writ of
_habeas corpus._ G. P. Stiles, counsel for prisoner, said that Johnson
had given up the prisoner on the first claim.
T. B. Johnson said he did not surrender his claim; had nothing to say
about it. "Take your own course, gentlemen."
Stiles said he has given him up on the first writ, and now says he says
nothing about it; and upon this ground we claim a discharge.
T. B. Johnson said--"We would be defending the writ before Judge Pope.
I come here as an agent of the United States. The prisoner has been
taken out of my hand, I consider illegally. I do not come here to
prosecute or to defend a writ of _habeas corpus._ There is no law for
these proceedings. I know my rights. If this court thinks it right to
discharge the prisoner, let them do it--let them do it. I do not ask
any favors of the court--I ask justice. The laws of Illinois have no
power over the United States laws. Let this court discharge him, and I
shall take another course--I do not say against you as a court. I came
here to arrest Jeremiah Smith."
Justice Harris asked if he meant to intimidate the court by threats.
The chief justice remarked that it was the duty of the United States
and Federal Government to treat their subjects and constituents with
all that complacency and good feeling which they wished in return,
and to avoid every threatening aspect, every intimidating and harsh
treatment. He respected the United States laws, but would not yield
up any right ceded to the court. The United States have no right to
trample our laws under their feet. {420} The court is bound by oath to
support the Constitution of the United States, and State of Illinois
and writ of_ habeas corpus._ The Constitution of the United States and
_habeas corpus_ shall not be denied. If the court deny the writ of
_habeas corpus,_ they perjure themselves. The United States have no
right to usurp power to intimidate, and the court would see them all
destroyed before he would perjure himself. We have asked no power. Mr.
Smith asked us to investigate. We were bound to do so. Let the Federal
Government hurl on us their forces, dragoons, &c.; we are not to be
intimidated. The court is clothed with _habeas corpus,_ [power] and
will execute it according to the law. "I understand some law and more
justice, and know as much about the rights of American citizens as any
man."
T. B. Johnson said--"If I did say anything indecorous to the court, I
take it back."
Court responded--"All is right."
Court ordered that the prisoner be discharged, the complainant having
refused to prosecute his claim; and that judgment be entered up _v._ T.
B. Johnson, as agent, for costs of suit.
Afterwards another petition for another writ of _habeas corpus_ was
presented and the writ issued and tried. I copy the minutes from the
municipal docket:
_Municipal Court Minutes in the case of Jeremiah Smith_.
STATE OF ILLINOIS,
CITY OF NAUVOO, Municipal Court.
_United States, vs. Jeremiah Smith, on Habeas Corpus_.
May 30th, 1844, came Jeremiah Smith, and upon the reading and
filing the petition for a writ of _habeas corpus_ to be directed
to one Luther W. Hickock to have forthwith before the Municipal
Court the body of the said Jeremiah Smith upon said writ. Said
writ was granted by the court in accordance with the prayer of the
petitioner.
The writ of _habeas corpus_ was served instanter by the Marshal
in court and petitioner present; which writ with Marshal's return
thereon, is on file in the clerk's office.
{421} The foregoing petition of said Jeremiah Smith, together
with a certified copy of the warrant, by virtue of which the said
Hickock held the said Jeremiah Smith in custody, are on file in the
clerk's office.
Present, Joseph Smith, mayor and chief justice; and William Marks,
Orson Spencer, George W. Harris, Gustavus Hills, and Samuel
Bennett, aldermen, associate justices.
Luther W. Hickock was called by the court to answer in the case,
who said he had a writ from Judge Pope, and should consider Smith
his prisoner until he was compelled to give him up. Wanted an
adjournment.
The court informed Hickock that Smith was their prisoner.
H. T. Hugins and George P. Stiles, counsel for Smith, objected to
an adjournment, as there had been two weeks adjournment for the
Government to procure witnesses in another suit which had closed,
arising out of the same case, and which had been abandoned by the
prosecuting party.
T. B. Johnson appeared before the court and said--"I stand here
as an agent for the Government to act in the case of Smith in
any state where he may be found; and if we are to go into an
investigation on the merits of the case, and go behind the writ,
I must have time to send to Washington for witnesses; and I am
instructed to consult with Justin Butterfield, Esq., Governor
Chambers of Iowa, and Mr. McPherson of St. Louis."
The marshal, J. P. Greene, presented the prisoner for trial.
The court ordered the marshal to take charge of the prisoner, and
have him forthcoming from time to time for trial.
Hickock asked for an adjournment until afternoon.
Hugins said--"If they want to go into the merits of the case,
we will give them any time; but we propose to dispense with the
merits, and move a discharge on the insufficiency of the papers.
Dr. Hickock has no legal authority to arrest the prisoner," and
read from page 51, Revised Statutes of Illinois, sec. 399.
T. B. Johnson said he could show the law different, and asked for
one week's adjournment.
One o'clock p.m., court adjourned until after dinner to hear the
pleas.
Three o'clock, p.m., court sat, the same as in the morning.
H. T. Hugins and George P. Stiles, counsel for Smith, read and
filed their plea, moving the court that said Smith be discharged,
and suffered to go at large.
1st. Because the person issuing the warrant on which he has been
arrested is unauthorized to issue the same.
2nd. Because the process has been issued in a case and under
circumstances where the law does not allow process.
{422} 3rd. Because the person having custody of said Smith is
unauthorized to execute the warrant under which he is acting, and
is not the person empowered by law to detain him.
4th. Because said Smith has been, by and before a competent court,
legally examined and discharged in relation to the subject matter
set forth in said warrant.
5th. Because said writ is defective in a substantial form required
by law.
L. W. Hickock was called, and persisted in considering the
authority under which he acted good and sufficient.
Counselor Hugins urged the first and second count in his plea, and
read from the Constitution of the United States, Art. 4, 2nd sec,
2nd part, 3rd count, read Revised Statutes of Illinois, page 51,
sec. 399, and page 324; 4th count, read the certificate of John S.
Dunlap, clerk of the District Court for the county of Des Moines,
Iowa Territory, dated May 21st, 1844, a copy of which is on file in
the clerk's office.
L. W. Hickock said he had nothing to say; and the case was
submitted.
DECISION--The court are of opinion, when they take into
consideration their oath to support the Constitution of the United
States, that the certificate of John S. Dunlap, clerk of the
District Court for the county of Des Moines, Territory of Iowa,
is sufficient to authorize the discharge or the prisoner, because
the Constitution says no person shall twice be put in jeopardy
of life for the same offense. The decision of the court is that
the prisoner be discharged on all the points for which plea has
been made in his behalf, and that judgment be entered against the
prosecutor for cost.
Evening, T. B. Johnson was going to Burlington. Jeremiah Smith swore
out an execution for $77.75. Mr. Johnson acknowledged the fee bill, and
afterwards threatened to bring the dragoons in order to get Jeremiah
Smith.
Mr. Hickock called for a copy of the proceedings of the Municipal Court.
I wrote the following letter to Judge Pope:--
_Letter: Joseph Smith to Judge Pope Introducing Jeremiah Smith_.
NAUVOO, May 30, 1844.
SIR,--Permit me to introduce to your particular notice and
confidence as "brethren of the mystic tie," Mr. Jeremiah Smith
of Iowa Territory, and Mr. H. T. Hugins of Burlington, in said
Territory Mr. Smith is a gentleman whose statements can be relied
on, and Mr. Hugins a lawyer, {423} of sound principles, as well
as promising talents; and I always take pleasure in extending the
reputations of honorable men among honorable men, especially when
it appears to me that the benevolence and clemency extended by me
is needed and merited by worthy men. Conscious, too, that your
Honor is liberal and just in your sphere, and will appreciate "the
golden rule," I have only to greet you with my best wishes for your
welfare and happiness.
Respectfully, I have the honor to be,
Your humble servant,
JOSEPH SMITH.
JUDGE POPE.
A Presidential election was recently held on board the _Osprey_ and the
result was as follows:--
Joseph Smith, 65 gentlemen and 6 ladies.
Henry Clay, 27 " " 3 "
Van Buren, 12 " " 0 "
_Friday, 31st_.--
_Affidavit H. T. Hugins, Anent Threat to Bring Dragoons Against
Nauvoo_.
STATE OF ILLINOIS,
CITY OF NAUVOO, ss.
May 31, 1844.
Then and there personally appeared before me, Joseph Smith, Mayor
of the City of Nauvoo, the undersigned H. T. Hugins, of Burlington,
Iowa Territory, and made solemn oath that Thomas B. Johnson did,
on the 30th day of May, 1844, declare in his presence that he
intended to bring dragoons and troops of the United States from
Iowa Territory into this city, for the purpose of resisting the
authority and power of the Municipal Court of said city, and that
he should disregard entirely the authority of said court, and
that he deemed the authority of said court of no effect. Deponent
further states that said Johnson, in his said conversation, had
reference to the case of Jeremiah Smith, which had been decided by
said court.
H. T. HUGINS.
Subscribed and sworn to before me, this 31st day of May, 1844.
WM. W. PHELPS, Clerk M. C.
Upon the foregoing affidavit, I issued a _capias_ to arrest Thomas
B. Johnson for threatening the peace of the city with United States
dragoons. At 10 a.m., called at my {424} office. At 1 p.m., called to
see Sister Richards, who was sick. I administered to her the laying on
of hands, when she felt better. Afternoon I attended general council,
when Brother Emmett made his report. Rode out in the evening to Van
Orden's, and paid him $100. Two or three Indians staid in the hall at
night.
_Saturday, June 1.--_At home. Some gentle showers.
At one, p.m., I rode out with Dr. Richards and Orrin P. Rockwell.
Called on Davis at the boat. Paid Manhard $90. Met George J. Adams, and
paid him $50. Then went to John P. Greene's, and paid him and another
brother $200. Called at William Clayton's, while Dr. Richards and Orrin
P. Rockwell called at the doctor's new house. Returned home at 4:30 p.m.
At 8 p.m., Peter Maughan, John Saunders, and Jacob Peart called at Dr.
Richards' to consult about a coal-bed on Rock River. I suggested it
would be profitable to employ the _Maid of Iowa_ in the business of
carrying the coal, &c; and all approved of this plan.
President Brigham Young and Elder John E. Page held a conference in
Pittsburg.
I received the following letter:--
_Joel H. Walker to Joseph Smith--Proposes to Join Prophet in
Western Volunteer Movement_.
BOSTON, May 9th, 1844.
MY DEAR SIR.--Being so closely confined in the postoffice in this
city, where I have been but a short time, I have not, before this
morning been aware that you had petitioned Congress in relation to
raising a military force to protect our Southern Frontier.
My purpose in addressing you is to offer my services, either in
military or civil duty, as I am so much confined that my health
must suffer if I remain a great length of time.
If I can make myself known to you by reputation which I think
possible, I have every confidence, if in your power, you will favor
my wishes.
At any rate, I hope you will write me at your earliest convenience
upon receipt of this.
{425} I was born in Peacham, Vermont, October 14th, 1813. My
father is Col. Joel Walker, now of Belvidere, Illinois. Hon. E.
Peck, of Springfield, Illinois, is my brother-in-law. I was in the
mercantile business in Chicago from 1836 to '39, (one of the firm
of King, Walker & Co.,) since which time I have been here, with
the exception of a year; have been in the military since the age
of sixteen, and am considered somewhat proficient, having devoted
much attention to the study of its principles, and an ardent love
for the art. I have received a good academical and mercantile
education; and if there is in your place anything which would be
for our mutual advantage,
I am yours respectfully,
JOEL HAMILTON WALKER.
GENERAL JOSEPH SMITH, Nauvoo.
I replied as follows:
_Letter: Joseph Smith to Joel H. Walker_.
NAUVOO, ILLINOIS, June 1st 1844.
SIR.--Yours of May 9th is before me, and according to my custom I
answer off hand. I have not yet ascertained whether Congress will,
by special act, authorize me to protect our beloved country. If it
should, I have not a doubt but your services could be agreeably
used.
As to what you could do in Nauvoo, I am unable to say. Gentlemen
with a small capital, or a large one, can easily employ it to good
advantage, our city is so rapidly improving.
Truth, virtue, and honor, combined with energy and industry, pave
the way to exaltation, glory and bliss.
Respectfully, I have the honor to be your obedient servant,
JOSEPH SMITH.
JOEL HAMILTON WALKER, Boston, Mass.
[Sidenote: Conference at Kalamazoo, Michigan.]
A conference was held at Kalamazoo, Michigan. Present, Wilford
Woodruff, George A. Smith, of the Twelve, S. Bent, C. C. Rich and B.
Fullmer, of the High Council; also 5 High Priests, 8 Seventies, 14
Elders, 2 Priests, and 1 Deacon. Elder Wilford Woodruff presided.
Seven branches were represented, containing 126 members, 15 Elders,
4 Priests, 1 Teacher and 2 Deacons. Two Elders were ordained; also 1
Priest and 1 Teacher.
A conference was held at Alquina, Fayette Co., {426} Indiana. Elder
Amasa Lyman presided. 5 High Priests, 2 Seventies and 4 Elders present.
_Sunday, 2.--_At home. Pleasant day.
[Sidenote: Conference at Glasgow, Scotland.]
A conference was held in Glasgow, Scotland, representing 1,018 members,
including 1 High Priest, 30 Elders, 46 Priests, 36 Teachers and 20
Deacons.
_Monday, 3.--_At home. Received the following letter:
_Letter: "Horace" to President Joseph Smith--Threatened Invasion of
Nauvoo_.
BURLINGTON, IOWA, June 2nd, 1844.
FRIEND SMITH.--I have just received intimation that there is a
project on foot here to visit Nauvoo with a body of from five to
six hundred armed men, for the purpose of liberating Dr. Hickock,
who, it is stated, is confined in your prison. I, as a friend to
your society, consider it my duty to make you aware of the danger
you may be in, that you may be prepared to meet them. I think it
best to keep my name from you, for were it known here that I had
given notice of their proceedings, it would not be safe for me to
remain. Do not think it a humbug, and treat it lightly; but prepare
yourselves for the coming storm. From what I can learn, they intend
going on the next boat. I hope this may reach you in time.
I am, with respect, your friend,
HORACE.
Rode out on the hill about 9 a.m.
Municipal Court sat. I was not present. The appealed cases of Augustine
Spencer, Chauncey L. Higbee, Charles A. Foster, and Robert D. Foster,
came up; but as they failed to appear, the cases were referred back to
the court below.
At 5 p.m. I read German with Alexander Neibaur.
President Brigham Young left Pittsburg, and preached in the evening to
an attentive congregation in Old Britain.
_Tuesday, 4.--_At home.
Arthur Morrison and Pulaski Cahoon proposed to give $100 per month for
the use of the _Maid of Iowa._ Made out their own bonds with their own
security; but I would not receive them.
{427} In the afternoon I went out to my farm, and accidentally broke
the whippletree of my buggy.
Wrote the following letter to Mr. Tewkesbury, Boston.
_Letter: Joseph and Hyrum Smith to Mr. Tewkesbury--Seeking to
Restore Latter to Fellowship_.
NAUVOO, ILLINOIS, June 4th, 1844.
SIR.--We understand that you have been cut off from the Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; and feeling an ardent desire
for the salvation of the souls of men, we take pleasure in feeling
after you; and therefore would, in the sincerity of men of God,
advise you to be rebaptized by Elder Nickerson, one of the servants
of God, that you may again receive the sweet influences of the Holy
Ghost, and enjoy the fellowship of the Saints.
The law of God requires it, and you cannot be too good. Patience
is heavenly, obedience is noble, forgiveness is merciful, and
exaltation is godly; and he that holds out faithful to the end
shall in no wise lose his reward. A good man will endure all things
to honor Christ, and even dispose of the whole world, and all in
it, to save his soul. Grace for grace is a heavenly decree, and
union is power where wisdom guides.
Respectfully,
JOSEPH SMITH,
HYRUM SMITH.
The Municipal Court issued an execution against Francis M. Higbee for
$36.26 1/2 for costs incurred on 8th May last.
[Sidenote: Prosecution of the Laws and Fosters Discussed.]
At 6 p.m. I was in council with Elders John Taylor, Hyrum Smith,
Willard Richards, Almon W. Babbitt, Lucien Woodworth, and William
W. Phelps on the propriety of prosecuting the Laws and Fosters for
perjury, slander, &c. Counseled Taylor to go on with the prosecution
in behalf of Maria Lawrence. I concluded to go to Quincy with Taylor,
and give up my bonds of guardianship as administrator of the Lawrence
estate.
Alpheus Cutler and Reynolds Cahoon are so anxious to get property, they
will all flat out as soon as the Temple is completed and the faith of
the Saints ceases from them, &c.
{428} At 7 p.m. I walked out with Lucien Woodworth.
_Wednesday, 5.--_I went to the prairie to show some land, and returned
home towards night.
At 8 p.m. I walked out with Dr. Richards. The lightning in the north
was most beautiful. About 10 a shower of rain passed over, with
continued distant thunder. There has not been any rain for some days
back. Thermometer stood at 94 1/2 degrees in the shade. Very warm.
I received a book entitled _"An Original History of the Religious
Denominations at Present Existing in the United States_," [1] and wrote
the following acknowledgment:
_Letter: Joseph Smith to L. Daniel Rupp--Book on Religious Sects_.
NAUVOO, ILLINOIS, June 5th, 1844.
DEAR SIR.--He pasa Ek-klesia, &c., together with your note, has
safely reached me, and I feel very thankful for so valuable a
treasure. The design, the propriety, the wisdom of letting every
sect tell its own story, and the elegant manner in which the work
appears, have filled my breast with encomiums upon it, wishing you
God speed.
Although all is not gold that shines, any more than every religious
creed is sanctioned with the so eternally sure word of prophecy,
satisfying all doubt with "Thus saith the Lord;" yet, "by proving
contraries," truth is made manifest," and a wise man can search out
"old paths, wherein righteous men held communion with Jehovah, and
were exalted through obedience.
I shall be pleased to furnish further information at a proper time,
and render you such further service as the work and vast extension
of our Church may demand for the benefit of truth, virtue and
holiness.
Your work will be suitably noticed in our papers for your benefit.
With great respect, I have the honor to be,
Your obedient servant,
JOSEPH SMITH.
L. D. RUPP, ESQ., Lancaster City, Pa.
_Thursday, 6.--_About 9 a.m. I ordered my carriage for a ride; but it
stood at the door till nearly noon, while I read my letter to Henry
Clay to many strangers, in the {429} bar-room, [2] among whom was one
who advocated the claims of Henry Clay for the presidency. I argued
with him for a long time to show the subject in its true light, and
that no man could honestly vote for a man like Clay, who had violated
his oath, and not acted on constitutional principles.
About half-past twelve Dimick B. Huntington came and said that Robert
D. Foster felt very bad, and he thought there was a chance for his
return, if he could be reinstated in his office in the Legion, &c.,
&c.; and that Foster had all the affidavits of the anti-Mormons under
his control. I told Huntington that if Foster would return, withdraw
all the suits he had commenced, and do right, he should be restored.
I rode out in the carriage with several persons for an hour or two. At
7 p.m. a heavy shower of rain, accompanied by thunder and lightning,
and another shower at 9. p.m.
I issued the following caution to the public:
Having once notified the public against receiving a certain
currency called "Kirtland Safety Society;" I again caution all
persons against receiving or trading in said paper money, as
all that was issued as genuine was redeemed. After the first
officers who signed said bills retired, a new set of officers
were appointed, and the vault of the institution was broken open
and robbed of several hundred thousand dollars, the signatures
forged upon the said stolen bills, and those bills are being slyly
bartered or had in trade, for the purpose of wilful and malicious
prosecution and collection.
In the first place the bills are not collectable by law in an
unchartered institution. In the second place, they are spurious,
the signature being a forgery, and every person passing or trading
a bill is guilty of passing counterfeit money, besides the
bare-faced act of swindling. And lastly, he that uses said bills
in any way, as a medium of trade is guilty of fraud, and shows a
wicked and corrupt determination to willfully, maliciously and
feloniously rob the Latter-day Saints; and if the executors of the
laws are as ready to mete out even handed justice to such {430} men
as the Mormons, more indictments will indicate more honesty. Time
will show.
JOSEPH SMITH.
Nauvoo, June 6, 1844.
[Sidenote: Prophet's Conversation with Dr. Foster.]
_Friday, 7.--_Robert D. Foster called professedly to make some
concessions in order to return to the Church. He wanted a private
interview, which I declined. I had some conversation with him in the
hall, in the presence of several gentlemen. I told him I would meet
with him in the presence of friends. I would choose three or four,
and he might choose an equal number, and that I was willing to settle
everything on righteous principles. In the evening a report was
circulated that Foster had said that I would receive him back on any
terms, and give him a hat full of dollars into the bargain.
I went to the printing office about 2 p.m., and instructed Elder John
Taylor to answer a certain bill or receipt of George W. Harris.
[Sidenote: First number of the_ Expositor_.]
The first and only number of the _Nauvoo Expositor_ was published,
edited by Sylvester Emmons.
In the evening I received an extremely saucy and insulting letter from
Robert D. Foster. Pleasant evening.
_Saturday, 8.--_From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. in City Council; also from
3 to 6:30 p.m. The subject the _Nauvoo Expositor_ was taken under
consideration. An ordinance was passed concerning the City Attorney and
his duties.
Elder Jedediah M. Grant preached in the Mansion this evening. Thunder
and rain this evening and during the night.
A ferry-boat came down from Burlington with a pleasure party, and
landed at the Nauvoo House at 2 p.m.
I sent William Clayton to Carthage to give in some lots for
assessments; and while there Backenstos told him that Walter Bagby had
been gone eight days to Missouri to try to get another writ for me.
Brother Clayton also got {431} news that the Democrats had dropped Van
Buren, and substituted James K. Polk, of Tennessee for president, and
Silas Wright of New York, for vice-president.
I walked out in the evening with Brother Clayton.
[Sidenote: Conference at Pleasant Valley, Michigan.]
A conference was held at Pleasant Valley, Michigan. Present of the
Twelve, Wilford Woodruff, and George A. Smith. Elder Wilford Woodruff
presided. Six branches were represented, comprising 89 members, 5
Elders, 2 Priests, 4 Teachers, and 3 Deacons. Five Elders were ordained.
_Sunday, 9.--_At home. My health not very good, in consequence of my
lungs being impaired by so much public speaking. My brother Hyrum
preached at the Stand.
At 2 p.m. several passengers of the steamer _Osprey_ from St. Louis and
Quincy arrived, and put up at the Mansion. I helped to carry in their
trunks, and chatted with them in the bar-room.
There was a meeting at the Mansion at 6 p.m.
Footnotes:
1. An article prepared by President Smith, under the title "The
Latter-day Saints," is published in this work.
2. This was the public sitting room of the Mansion, which, it will be
remembered was used at this time as a hotel.
{432}
CHAPTER XX.
THE DESTRUCTION OF THE "NAUVOO EXPOSITOR"--PROCEEDINGS OF THE NAUVOO
CITY COUNCIL AND MAYOR.
[Sidenote: _Nauvoo Expositor_ before Nauvoo City Council.]
_Monday, June 10, 1844.--_I was in the City Council from 10 a.m., to
1:20 p.m., and from 2:20 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. investigating the merits
of the _Nauvoo Expositor,_ and also the conduct of the Laws, Higbees,
Fosters, and others, who have formed a conspiracy for the purpose of
destroying my life, and scattering the Saints or driving them from the
state.
[Sidenote: Ordinance on Libels.]
An ordinance was passed concerning libels. The Council passed an
ordinance declaring the_ Nauvoo Expositor_ a nuisance, and also issued
an order to me to abate the said nuisance. I immediately ordered the
Marshal to destroy it without delay, and at the same time issued an
order to Jonathan Dunham, acting Major-General of the Nauvoo Legion, to
assist the Marshal with the Legion, if called upon so to do.
About 8 p.m., the Marshal returned and reported that he had removed the
press, type, printed paper, and fixtures into the street, and destroyed
them. This was done because of the libelous and slanderous character
of the paper, its avowed intention being to destroy the municipality
and drive the Saints from the city. The _posse_ accompanied by some
hundreds of the citizens, returned with the Marshal to the front of
the Mansion, when I gave them a short address, and told them they had
done right and that not a hair of their heads should be hurt for it;
that they had executed the orders which were given me by {433} the City
Council; that I would never submit to have another libelous publication
established in the city; that I did not care how many papers were
printed in the city, if they would print the truth: but would submit
to no libels or slanders from them. I then blessed them in the name
of the Lord. This speech was loudly greeted by the assembly with
three-times-three cheers. The _posse_ and assembly then dispersed all
in good order. Francis M. Higbee and others made some threats.
East wind. Very cold and cloudy.
I here insert the
_Ordinance Concerning Libels and for Other Purposes_.
Whereas the Saints in all ages of the world have suffered
persecution and death by wicked and corrupt men under the garb
of a mere holy appearance of religion; and whereas the Church
of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints, from the moment that its
first truth sprang out of the earth till now, has been persecuted
with death, destruction, and extermination; and, whereas men to
fulfill the Scriptures that a man's enemies are they of his own
household, have turned traitors in the Church, and combined and
leagued with the most corrupt scoundrels and villains that disgrace
the earth unhung, for the Heaven-daring and damnable purpose of
revenge on account of disappointed lust, disappointed projects
of speculation, fraud, and unlawful designs to rob and plunder
mankind with impunity; and, whereas such wicked and corrupt men
have greatly facilitated their unlawful designs, horrid intentions,
and murderous plans by polluting, degrading and converting
the blessings and utility of the press to the sin-smoking and
blood-stained ruin of innocent communities--by publishing lies,
false statements, coloring the truth, slandering men, women,
children, societies, and countries--by polishing the characters
of blacklegs, highwaymen, and murderers as virtuous; and whereas
a horrid, bloody, secret plan, upheld, sanctioned and largely
patronized by men in Nauvoo and out of it, who boast that all they
want for the word _go_, to exterminate or ruin the Latter day
Saints, is for them to do one unlawful act, and the work shall be
done, is now fostered, cherished, and maturing in Nauvoo,--by men,
too, who helped to obtain the very charter they would break, and
some of them drew up and voted for the very ordinances they are
striving to use as a scarecrow to frighten the surrounding country
in rebellion, mobbing, and war; and whereas, while the blood of
{434} our brethren from wells, holes and naked prairies, and the
ravishment of female virtue from Missouri, and the smoke from the
altars of infamy, prostituted by John C. Bennett, and continued in
the full tide of experiment and disgraceful damnation by the very
self-called fragments of a body of degraded men that have got up
a press in Nauvoo to destroy the charter of the city--to destroy
Mormonism, men, women, and children as Missouri did; by force of
arms--by fostering laws that emanate from corruption and betray
with a kiss; wherefore to honor the State of Illinois, and those
patriots who gave the charter, and for the benefit, convenience,
health, and happiness of said city:--
Sec. 1. Be it ordained by the City Council of Nauvoo that if any
person or persons shall write or publish in said city any false
statement or libel any of the citizens, for the purpose of exciting
the public mind against the chartered privileges, peace, and good
order of said city, or shall slander (according to the definition
of slander or libel by Blackstone or Kent, or the act in the
statute of Illinois,) any portion of the inhabitants of said city,
or bribe any portion of the citizens of said city for malicious
purposes, or in any manner or form excite the prejudice of the
community against any portion of the citizens of said city, for
evil purposes, he, she, or they shall be deemed disturbers of the
peace; and, upon conviction before the Mayor or Municipal Court,
shall be fined in any sum not exceeding five hundred dollars, or
imprisoned six months, or both, at the discretion of said Mayor or
court.
Sec. 2. Be it further ordained that nothing in the foregoing
section shall be so construed as to interfere with the right of any
person to be tried by a jury of his vicinage, with the freedom of
speech or the liberty of the press, according to the most liberal
meaning of the Constitution, the dignity of freemen, the voice of
truth, and the rules of virtue.
Sec. 3. And be it further ordained that this ordinance shall be in
force from and after its passage.
Passed June 10th, 1844.
GEO. W. HARRIS, President, pro tem.
W. RICHARDS, Recorder.
I also insert a brief synopsis of the proceedings of the City Council
of the city of Nauvoo, relative to the destruction of the press and
fixtures of the _Nauvoo Expositor_.
_Synopsis of Proceedings in the City Council against the Nauvoo
Expositor_.
CITY COUNCIL, REGULAR SESSION,
June 8th, 1844.
In connection with other business as stated in last week's paper,
the {435} Mayor remarked that he believed it generally the case,
that when a man goes to law, he has an unjust cause, and wants to
go before some one who wants business, and that he had very few
cases on his docket; and referring to Councilor Emmons, editor of
the _Nauvoo Expositor,_ suggested the propriety of first purging
the City Council; and, referring to the character of the paper
and proprietors, called up Theodore Turley, a mechanic, who being
sworn, said that the Laws (William and Wilson,) had brought bogus
dies to him to fix.
Councilor Hyrum Smith inquired what good Foster and his brother and
the Higbees and Laws had ever done. While his brother Joseph was
under arrest from the Missouri persecution, the Laws and Robert
D. Foster would have been ridden on a rail, if he had not stepped
forward to prevent it, on account of their oppressing the poor.
Mayor said, while he was under arrest by writ from Governor Carlin
William Law sued him for $40 he was owing Law, and it took the last
expense money he had to pay it.
Councilor Hyrum Smith referred to J. H. Jackson's coming to this
city, &c. Mayor said that William Law had offered Jackson $500 to
kill him.
Councilor Hyrum Smith continued--Jackson told him he (Jackson)
meant to have his daughter, and threatened him if he made any
resistance. Jackson related to him a dream, that Joseph and Hyrum
were opposed to him, but that he would execute his purposes; that
Jackson had laid a plan with four or five persons to kidnap his
daughter, and threatened to shoot any one that should come near
after he had got her in the skiff; that Jackson was engaged in
trying to make bogus, which was his principal business. Referred
to the revelation read to the High Council of the Church, which
has caused so much talk, about multiplicity of wives; that said
revelation was in answer to a question concerning things which
transpired in former days. That when sick, William Law confessed
to him that he had been guilty of adultery, and was not fit to
live, and had sinned against his own soul, &c., and inquired who
was Judge Emmons? When he came here he had scarce two shirts to his
back; but he had been dandled by the authorities of the city, &c.,
and was now editor of the _Nauvoo Expositor,_ and his right hand
man, was Francis M. Higbee, who had confessed to him that he had
had the--!
Washington Peck sworn, said--"Soon after Joseph H. Jackson came
here, he came to witness to borrow money, which witness loaned him
and Cook some jewelry as security."
Soon after a man from across the river came after the jewelry.
Jackson had stolen the jewelry from him.
{436} At another time wanted to get money of witness. Asked witness
if he would do anything dishonorable to get a living. Witness said
he would not. Jackson said witness was a damn fool, for he could
get a living, a deal easier than he was then doing, by making
bogus; and some men high in the Church, are engaged in the business.
Witness asked if it was Joseph. "No," said Jackson; "I dare not
tell it to Joseph." Witness understood him the Laws are engaged in
it. Jackson said he would be the death of witness, if he ever went
to Joseph, or anyone else, to tell what he had said.
AFTERNOON.--Ordered by the Council that Sylvester Emmons be
suspended until his case could be investigated, for slandering the
City Council. That the Recorder notify him of his suspension, and
that his case would come up for investigation at the next regular
session of the Council. (The order is in the hands of the Marshal).
Councilor John Taylor said that Council or Emmons helped to make
the ordinances of the city, and had never lifted his voice against
them in the Council, and was now trying to destroy the ordinances
and the charter.
Lorenzo Wasson sworn, said Joseph H. Jackson had told witness that
bogus-making was going on in the city; but it was too damned small
business. Wanted witness to help him to procure money, for the
General (Smith) was afraid to go into it; and with $500 he could
get an engraving for bills on the Bank of Missouri, and one on the
State of New York, and could make money. Said many times witness
did not know him. Believed the General had been telling witness
something. "G--d d--n him; if he has, I will kill him; Swore he
would kill any man that should prove a traitor to him," Jackson
said, if he could get a company of men to suit him, he would go
into the frontiers and live by highway robbery; had got sick of the
world.
Mayor suggested that the Council pass an ordinance to prevent
misrepresentations and libelous publications and conspiracies
against the peace of the city; and, referring to the reports that
Dr. Foster has set afloat, said he had never made any proposals
to Foster to come back to the Church. Foster proposed to come
back; came to Mayor's house, and wanted a private interview. Had
some conversation with Foster in the hall, in presence of several
gentlemen, on the 7th inst. Offered to meet him and have an
interview in presence of friends, three or four, to be selected by
each party; which Foster agreed to, and went to bring his friends
for the interview; and the next notice he had of him was the
following letter:--
{437} TO GENERAL JOSEPH SMITH:
June 7th, 1844.
SIR,--I have consulted my friends in relation to your proposals of
settlement, and they as well as myself, are of opinion that your
conduct, and that of your unworthy, unprincipled clan, is so base,
that it would be morally wrong, and detract from the dignity of
gentlemen, to hold any conference with you. The repeated insults
and abuses I, as well as my friends, have suffered from your
unlawful course towards us, demands honorable resentment. We are
resolved to make this our motto.
Nothing on our part has been done to provoke your anger, but have
done all things as become men. You have trampled upon everything
we hold dear and sacred. You have set all law at defiance, and
profaned the name of the Most High to carry out your damnable
purposes; and I have nothing more to fear from you than you have
already threatened; and I, as well as my friends, will stay here
and maintain and magnify the law as long as we stay; and we are
resolved never to leave until we sell or exchange our property that
we have here.
The proposals made by your agent, Dimick Huntington, as well as
the threats you sent to intimidate me, I disdain and despise as I
do their unhallowed author. The right of my family and my friends
demands at my hand a refusal of all your offers. We are united in
virtue and truth, and we set hell at defiance, and all her agents.
Adieu.
R. D. FOSTER.
Mayor continued--And when Foster left his house, he went to a shoe
shop on the hill, and reported that Joseph said to him, if he
would come back he would give him Law's place in the Church, and a
hat-full of specie.