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Vol. 1. Whole No. 4.] COMMERCE, ILLINOIS, FEBRUARY, 1840 [Whole No. 4.
A HISTORY, OF THE PERSECUTION, OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST, OF LATTER DAY SAINTS IN MISSOURI.
CONTINUED.
The Governor, D. Dunklin, was disposed to bring the mobbers to justice; consequently, ten or twelve, witnesses were subpoened to attend the February term of the circuit court Capt. Atchison was ordered to guard them over to Jackson, and back, with his company of Liberty Blues. The attorney Gen. was also ordered, or requested, by the Gov. to attend the court, to assist the circuit attorney, in the investigation. The witnesses were guarded over to Independence, and after having been there a short time, they were visited by the circuit attorney, accompanied by the attorney General. They informed the witnesses, that such was the excitement prevailing there; that it was doubtful whether any thing could be done to bring the mobbers to justice; that if any should be convicted, they would only be fined in some trifling sum, not to exceed $5, at most, just enough to answer the law. And they advised the witnesses not to go before the grand jury, intimating at the same time, that they might be in danger.-The witnesses replied, that they had been ordered there by the court, and they supposed, that they were still subject to the court, or to them, the attornies [attorneys]. As to the danger, in going before the grand jury they feared it not: they were ready and willing to go and testify to the truth. The attornies [attorneys] left them, and in a short time after, they were informed by Capt. Atchison, that the Judge, Mr. Ryland, had sent him word, that the witnesses and guard, were not wanted there any longer; Capt. A. paraded his men, as soon, and as well as he could for the crowd, and immediately marched off, the witnesses following him. All hopes were now given up of ever bringing that people to justice; their hatred towards the saints, appeared to be unabating; they frequently sent over word to Clay co. that they were coming over to drive them from that place; they even went so far, as to circulate a paper in Clay county, the object of which was to obtain volunteers there, to assist them in driving the saints away.-In Clay county however, they had but a few friends, (for some time,) and could not obtain many signers.
A wealthy farmer, by the name of Arthur, living in Clay county, who was then friendly to the saints, and who was in the habit of sending flour and whiskey into Jackson to sell, (it generally being higher there than in Clay, in consequence of the Indian trade,) sent over one of his negroes and team with a load, sometime that fall or winter, they were stopped on the road by some of the good people of Jackson, who mounted the load, and with axes cut the barrels to pieces, and wasted the flour and whisky upon the ground.
In 1834, if we mistake not, an inoffensive Br. by the name of Ira J. Willes went into Jackson co. to hunt for a lost cow; he was taken by some of the ruffians residing there, who, after stripping off his clothes, whipped him unmercifully. For the credit of Missouri, we would state that he was taken from the house of a Justice of the Peace; this is an ensample of upper Missouri peace makers. The same year, Br. Lewis Abbot, a very peacible [peaceable] man, went to Jackson to see a man who owed him; on his way he was discovered, and overtaken by some of that lawless banditti, who beat him with handspikes, no doubt with an intent to kill, for that was what they swore they would do; but his life was preserved, and he escaped out of their hands. Thus have that people, unceasingly abused, and persecuted the saints whenever they could get an opportunity.
Governor Dunklin appeared willing to guard back the saints to Jackson co.
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at any time when they should get ready to go; but said, that he had not authority to keep a guard there for their protection. That being the case they were advised, by some of the most influential men in the upper country, who were friendly to them, but not believers in their faith, to have enough of their brethren emigrate to that country, to enable them to maintain their rights, should the mob ever attemp [attempt] to trample upon them again: and then get the Governor to set them back upon their lands. Accordingly word was sent forth to the churches to that effect; and in the summer of 1834, a large company emigrated from the eastern churches, to Clay co. for that purpose.
Whilst this company was forming and going up to Missouri, rumor, with her ten thousand tongues, was busily engaged, in circulating falsehoods about them; insomuch [inasmuch], that before they arrived at Clay co., there was considerable excitement, even there.
The Jackson co. people went over into Clay, and called a meeting and stired [stirred] up all the feelings there, that they possibly could against the saints. The anger of the people of Jackson co. rose to a great height; they had furnished themselves with a number of cannon, and their neighbours [neighbors] of the adjoining counties, on the south side of the Missouri river, volunteered by hundreds to assist them, provided that the Gov. should attempt to set the saints back upon their land in Jackson co.
The company from the eastern churches arrived in Clay co. and their gentle manners, and peaceable deportment, soon convinced the people of that country, of the false reports which had been circulated about them. The excitement was very soon done away, and the people appeared more friendly than before.
After the arrival of the brethren from the east, a council was held, and it was concluded, considering the great wrath of the people, south of the river, that it would not be wisdom to ask the Governor to set them back at that time.
The people of Clay co. were mostly friendly to the saints, but there were a few exceptions. Nothing of importance occurred, however, for some time, a few threats and insults from those who were disaffected, was all the hostility manifested till the summer of 1836.
The suits which had been commenced against the Jackson co. people, for damages, progressed so slow, and were attended with such an amount of cost, that they were all dropped but two; which were considered sufficient to try the experiment; to ascertain whether or not any thing could be obtained by the law. Near $300 cost had been paid by the brethren, to obtain a change of venue; the suits were then removed to Ray county. Court after court passed, and the trials were continued. At last, in the summer of 1836, the time drew near, when it was supposed that the trials must come on: which was very gratifying to those who planted the suits. When the court came, their lawyers, instead of going to trial, as they should have done, made a sort of compromise, with the mobbers, by dropping one suit, without even having the cost paid, and that too without the knowledge or consent of their employers. On the other suit the defendants agreed to pay a few hundred dollars; though not as much as the lawyer's fees had been. Thus the lawyers, after getting their pay, managed the cases; had they been true to the brethren, as they were bound to be by oath, and brought their suits to a trial, instead of making a compromise, and laboured [labored] faithfully for them, as they ought to have done; and laboured [labored] as though they meant to earn their thousand dollar fee; there is no doubt but that, on the two suits, they would have obtained as many thousands of dollars, as they did hundreds by the compromise. No further attempts have ever been made to obtain a compensation for the losses and damages, sustained by the saints in Jackson co., except last winter in petitioning the Legislature of Missouri, among other things they asked the State, for remuneration for them; which the Legislature did not see fit to grant.
In the summer of 1836 the mob party, in Clay co. strengthened itself considerably, and became quite bold; insomuch [inasmuch] that they on one of two instances, began to whip the saints; and
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one day some sixty of seventy of them assembled, rode off a few miles east, and stopped a few waggons [wagons], which were moving to Clay co., and turned them back. It was manifested from their threatnings [threatenings] and actions, that they were determined, to fall upon the saints and drive them out of the county, if they could. It was equally manifest, that the saints were disposed to defend themselves against mobs, even to the sheding [shedding] of blood.
At that time it was seen that if something was not done to stop it, blood would be shed; (for the mob party were resolved on driving, and the saints were determined not to be driven by them, without first trying their strength;) Wherefore the most intelligent, and respectable citizens of the county, who had always appeared friendly to the saints, held a meeting, in which they appointed a committee, and also requested the saints to appoint a committee, to meet their committee near Liberty, on a day appointed to confer with each other; and see if something could not be done, to evade the storm, which appeared to be fast gathering.
The committee met at the appointed time, and a proposition was made by the citizen's committee, to the other, to this effect.
That whereas, the people of Clay co. had kindly received the saints in their distress, when it was expected, that they would soon return to Jackson co., and not think of making Clay co. a permanent home; and whereas, almost three years had passed away since, and the prospect of their returning to Jackson co. was less at that time than it was years before; and that a portion of the citizens of Clay co. were dissatisfied, to have them remain where they were any longer. Therefore the committee in behalf of the citizens requested, that they (the saints) should look themselves a new location, either in some unsettled part of the State, or otherwise go out of the State, as suited them best. The committee disclaimed all right, to request any such thing; they said, that they knew very well, that the saints had just as good a right there, as themselves, but they thought that considering the opposition that there was to them it would be better for them, to go where they could be more by themselves; and they even recommended their gathering together, and living altogether by themselves. They further said, that if they would consent to go., and seek a new location, they would send a committee with them, who was acquainted with the country, who would pilot them, in looking it out. However a location had already been selected, and about sixteen hundred acres of land purchased but a short time previous; and they were willing to go, and some of them were making preparations to move there soon before the meeting of the committee: Wherefore the committee, on the part of the church, consented to the proposition made to them; and then all parted with apparent good feelings.-Soon afterwards three, on the part of the church, and two pilots, started to view the country; they travelled [traveled] a number of days, the new settlements, towards the N. W. corner of the State; and they finally concluded, that the place previously selected, now known as Caldwell Co. should be the place, where they would settle; there being but a few inhabitants, in a district of country large enough for a county; and they, in general, willing to sell out.
Upon these movements the mob spirit in Clay Co. measurably subsided, and the saints prepared, and moved to their new settlement, as fast as their circumstances would permit; pleased with the idea of settling together by themselves.
COMMUNICATIONS COPY OF A LETTER FROM J. SMITH jr. TO Mr. GALLAND.
Liberty jail, Clay co. Mo. March 22nd, 1839.
Mr. Isaac Galland; Dear Sir: I have just been privileged with a perusal of a letter, put into my hands by Mr. D. W. Rogers, which letter was directed to him, dated February 26th, 1839. and signed, Isaac Galland. The contents of said letter expresses a sympathy and a good feeling towards the people and church of the Latter Day Saints, which I have the high honor, of being their religious leader; I say high honor, more especially, because I know them to be an honorable, a virtuous, and an upright people. And that honor, virtue
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and righteousness is their only aim and object in this life. They are sir, a much injured, and abused people; and are greatly belied as to their true character. They have been fallen upon by a gang of ruffians and murderers, three times, in the state of Missouri; and entirely broken up, without having committed the first offence [offense]: or without there being the least shadow in the very slightest degree of evidence, that they have done ought of any thing derogatory to the laws, or character, of the state of Missouri. And this last time of their being broken up; it is either my misfortune, or good fortune, (for I rather count it good fortune to suffer affliction with the people of God,) in connection with others of my brethren, to be made a severe sufferer, by the hands of the above mentioned rascals: they are supported by some portions of the authorities of the State, either in consequence of prejudices, excited by foul calumnies, or else they themselves, are the fathers and instigators, of the whole diabolical and murderous proceeding.
I am bold to say sir, that a more nefarious transaction never has existed, since the days of Yore; than that which has been practiced upon us.-Myself and those who are in prison with me, were torn from our houses, with our wives and children clinging to our garments, under the awful expectation of being exterminated. At our first examination, the mob found one of two persons, of low and worthless character, whom they compelled, at the peril of their lives, to swear some things against us: which things, if they had been even true, were nothing at all, and could not have so much as disgraced any man under heaven. Nevertheless, we could have proved, by more than five hundred witnesses, that the things were false. But the Judge employed an armed force, and compelled us to abandon the idea of introducing witnesses, upon the peril of the lives of the witnesses. Under such circumstances, sir, we were committed to this jail, on a pretended charge of treason, against the State of Missouri, without the slightest evidence to that effect. We collected our witnesses the second time, and petitioned a habeas corpus: but were thrust back again into prison, by the rage of the mob; and our families robbed, and plundered: and families, and witnesses, thrust from their homes, and hunted out of the State, and dare not return for their lives. And under this order of things, we, held in confinement, for a pretended trial: whereas we are to be tried by those very characters who have practiced those things, yea the very characters who have murdered some hundred men, women and children,* and have sworn to have our lives also; and have made public proclamation that these men must and should be hung, whether they were innocent, or guilty. Such men too, sir, have made this proclamation, as general Atchison, who is considered one of the most prominent men in the State. This is according to the information I have received, which I suppose to be true. Their plea sir, is that the State will be ruined, if the Mormon leaders are liberated, so that they can publish the real facts, of what has been practised [practiced] upon them.
We are kept under a strong guard, night and day, in a prison of double walls and doors, proscribed in our liberty of conscience, our food is scant, uniform, and coarse; we have not the privilege of cooking for ourselves, we have been compelled to sleep on the floor with straw, and not blankets sufficient to keep us warm; and when we have a fire, we are obliged to have almost a constant smoke. The Judges have gravely told us from time to time that they knew we were innocent, and ought to be liberated, but they dare not administer the law unto us, for fear of the mob. But if we will deny our religion, we can be liberated. Our lawyers have gravely told us, that we are only held now by the influence of long faced Baptists; how far this is true, we are not able to say: but we are certain that our most vehement accusers, are the highest toned professors of religion. On being interrogated what these men have done? their uniform answer is, we do not know, but they are false teachers, and ought to die. And of late boldly and frankly acknowledge, that the religion of these men, is all that they have against them. Now sir, the only difference between their
*He was thus informed by the Missourians
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religion, and mine, is, that I firmly believe in the prophets and apostles, Jesus Christ, being the chief corner stone. And speak as one having authority among them, and not as the scribes, and am liberal in my sentiments towards all men, in matters of opinion, and rights of conscience, whereas they are not. But enough of this. I feel highly gratified to learn of a man who had sympathy, and feelings of friendship towards a suffering, and an injured, and an innocent people: if you can do them any good, render them any assistance, or protection, in the name of suffering humanity, we beseach [beseech] you, for God's sake, and humanity's sake, that you will do it. If you should see Gov. Lucas, I wish you would have the kindness to state to him, the contents of this letter; as we know him from information to be a man of character and a gentleman. I would be glad therefore, if it were possible that he, and not only him, but every other patriotic, and humane man, should know the real facts of our sufferings: and of the unjust and cruel hand that is upon us. I have been in this State one year, the 12th, day of this month; I have never borne arms at any time. I have never held any office, civil or military in this State. I have only officiated as a religious teacher, in religious matters, and not in temporal matters. The only occasion I have given, was to defend my own family, in my own door yard, against the invasions of a lawless mob: and that I did not at the expense of any man's life: but risked my own in defence [defense] of an innocent family, consisting of a wife, five children, hired servants &c. My residence was in Far West. I was surrounded with a noble, generous, and enterprising society, who were friendly to the laws, and constitution of our country: they were broken up without cause, and my family now as I suppose, if living, are in Quincy, Illinois.
We are informed that the prisoners in Richmond jail, Ray county, are much more inhumanly [inhumanely] treated than we are; if this is the case, we will assure you, that their constitutions cannot last long, for we find ours wearing away very fast: and if we knew of any source whereby aid and assistance could be rendered unto us, we should most cordially petition for it: but where is liberty? Where is humanity? Where is patriotism? Where has the genius of the pedistal [pedestal] of the laws and constitution of our boasted country fled? Are they not slain victims at the feet of prejudice, to gratify the malice of a certain class of men, who have learned that their craft and creed cannot stand against the light of truth, when it comes to be investigated?-hence they resort to the vilest of the vile means, and to foul calumnies, and to physical force to do what? To deprive some fifty thousand, of the right of citizenship, and for what? because they are blasphemers? no: For this is contrary to their practice, as well as faith. Was it because they were tavern haunters, and drunkards? no. This charge cannot be substantiated against them as a people; it was contrary to their faith. And finally was it for any thing? no sir, not for any thing, only, that Mormonism is truth; and every man who embrace it felt himself at liberty to embrace every truth: consequently the shackles of superstition, bigotry, ignorance, and priestcraft, falls at once from his neck; and his eyes are opened to see the truth, and truth greatly prevails over priestcraft; hence the priests are alarmed and they raise a hu-in-cry [hue-and-cry], down with these men! heresy! heresy! fanaticism! false prophet! false teachers! away with these men! crucify them! crucify them! And now sir, this is the sole cause of the persecution against the Mormon people, and now if they had been Mahomedans Hottentots or Pagans; or in fine sir, if their religion was as false as hell, what fight would men have to drive them from their homes, and their country, or to exterminate them, so long as their religion did not interfere with the civil rights of men, according to the laws of our country? None at all. But the mind naturally being curious wants to know what those sentiments are, that are so at varience [variance] with the priests of the age, and I trust you will bear with me, while I offer to you a few of my reflections on this subject, and if they should not meet your mind, it may open a door for an exchange of ideas, and in the exercise of proper liberality of spirit, it may not be unprofitable.
In the first place, I have stated above
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that Mormonism is truth, in other words the doctrine of the Latter Day Saints is truth; for the name Mormon, and Mormonism, was given to us by our enemies, but Latter Day Saints was the real name by which the church was organized. Now sir, you may think that it is a broad assertion that it is truth; but sir, the first and fundamental principle of our holy religion is, that we believe that we have a right to embrace all, and every item of truth, without limitation or without being circumscribed or prohibited by the creeds or superstitious notions of men, or by the dominations of one another, when that truth is clearly demonstrated to our minds, and we have the highest degree of evidence of the same; we feel ourselves bound by the laws of God, to observe and do strictly, with all our hearts, all things whatsoever is manifest unto us by the highest degree of testimony that God has committed us, as written in the old and new Testament, or any where else, by any manifestation, whereof we know that it has come from God: and has application to us, being adapted to our situation and circumstances; age, and generation of life; and that we have a perfect, and indefeasible right, to embrace all such commandments, and do them; knowing, that God will not command any thing, but what is peculiarly adapted in itself, to ameliorate the condition of every man under whatever circumstances it may find him, it matters not what kingdom or country he may be in. And again, we believe that it is our privilege to reject all things, whatsoever is clearly manifested to us that they do not have a bearing upon us. Such as, for instance, it is not binding on us to build an Ark, because God commanded Noah to build one.- It would not be applicable to our case; we are not looking for a flood. It is not binding on us to lead the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt, because God commanded Moses. The children of Israel are not in bondage to the Egyptians, as they were then; our circumstances are very different. I have introduced these for examples: and on the other hand, "Thou shalt not kill. Thou shalt not steal. Thou shalt not commit adultery. Thou shalt not bare false witness against they neighbor. Thou shalt not covet thy neighbor's wife, nor his ox, nor his ass, nor his man servant, nor his maid servant, nor any thing that is they neighbors."
These sentiments we most cordially embrace, and consider them binding on us because they are adapted to our circumstances. We believe that we have a right to revelations, visions, and dreams from God, our heavenly Father; and light and intelligence, through the gift of the Holy Ghost, in the name of Jesus Christ, on all subjects pertaining to our spiritual welfare; if it so be that we keep his commandments, so as to render ourselves worthy in his sight. We believe that no man can administer salvation through the gospel, to the souls of men, in the name of Jesus Christ, except he is authorized from God, by revelation, or by being ordained by some one whom God hath sent by revelation, as it is written by Paul, Romans 10:14, "and how shall they believe in him, of whom, they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher? and how shall they preach, except they be sent?" and I will ask, how can they be sent without a revelation, or some other visible display of the manifestation of God. And again, Hebrews, 5:4, "And no man taketh this honor unto himself, but he that is called of God, as was Aaron."-And I would ask, how was Aaron called, but by revelation?
And again we believe in the doctrine of faith, and of repentance, and of baptism for the remission of sins, and the gift of the Holy Ghost, by the laying on of hands, and of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. We believe in the doctrine of repentance, as well as of faith; and in the doctrine of baptism for the remission of sins as well as in the doctrine of repentance; and in the doctrine of the gift of the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands, as well as baptism for the remission of sins; and also, in like manner, of the resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment. Now all these are the doctrines set forth by the appostles [apostles], and if we have any thing to do with one of them, They are all alike precious, and binding on us. And as proof, mark the following quotations. Mark 16 chap., 15-16 verses, "and he said
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unto them go ye into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature, and he that believeth and is baptized shall be saved, but he that believeth not shall be damned." Hear you will see the doctrine of faith: and again, Acts 2nd chap. 28 verse, "Then Peter said unto them repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost." Hear you see the doctrine of repentance and baptism for the remission of sins, and the gift of the Holy Ghost, connected by the promise inseperably [inseparably]. Now I want you to consider the high standing of Peter; he was now being endowed with power from on high and held the keys of the kingdom of heaven. Mathew 16th chap. 19th verse, and I will give unto you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven, and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." This was the character, Sir, that made the glorious promise of the gift of the Holy Ghost, predicated upon the baptism for the remission of sins: and he did not say that it was confined to that generation, but see further: Act 2nd chap. 39th verse. "for the promise is unto you, and your children, and to all who are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call." Then, Sir, if the callings of God extend unto us, we come within the perview [purview] of Peter's promise. Now where is the man who is authorized to put his finger on the spot and say, thus far shalt thou go and no farther: there is no man. Therefore let us receive the whole, or none. And again, concerning the doctrine of the laying on of hands. Act 8th chap. 14th to 17th verse. Now when the apostles, which were at Jerusalem, heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John; who, when they were come down, prayed for them, that they might receive the Holy Ghost; for as yet he was fallen upon none of them, only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.-Then laid they their hands upon them, and they received the Holy Ghost.-Acts 19th chap. 5th-6th verses.-When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus.-And when Paul had laid his hands upon them, the Holy Ghost came on them; and they spake with tongues and prophesied. We discover by these, the doctrine of the laying on of the hands.-And for the doctrine of the resurrection of the dead and of eternal judgment: Hebrews 6th chap. 2nd verse, of the doctrine of baptism, and of laying on of the hands and of reserrection [resurrection] of the dead, and of eternal judgment. I consider these to be some of the leading items of the gospel, as taught by Christ and his apostles, and as received by those whom they taught. I wish you would look at these, carefully and closely, and you will readily perceive that the difference between me and other religious teachers, is in the bible; and the bible and them for it: and as far as they teach the gospel of Jesus Christ, as it is verily written and are inspired, and called as was Aaron, I feel myself bound to bow with all deference to their mandates and teachings; but see Gallations [Galatians], 1st chap. 6th to 10th verse. I marvel that you are so soon removed from him that called you into the grace of Christ, unto another Gospel; but there be some that trouble you, and would pervert the gospel of Christ. But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed. As we said before, so say I now again, if any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him accursed. For do I now persuade men or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ. Further, the 11-12 verses. But, I certify you, brethren,; that the gospel which was preached of me is not after man; for I neither received it of man, neither was I taught it, but by the revelation of Jesus Christ.
Please Sir, to pardon me for having obtruded thus lengthy upon your feelings, as you are a stranger to me; and I know nothing of you, only what I have read in you letter, and from that I have taken the liberty which I have. Be assured Sir, that I have the most liberal sentiments, and feeling of charity towards all sects, parties, and denominations; and the rights and liberties of concience [conscience], I hold most sacred
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and dear, and dispise [despise] no man for differing with me in matters of opinion.
Accept Dear Sir, my best wishes for your welfare, and desire for further acquaintance, I close my letter, by giving you some quotations which you will have the goodness to read.
The second epistle of Paul to Timothy, 1:5-7. 2:10-14. 4:2-7. Ephesians 4:10-18. 1st Corinthians 12:1-31. 8:3-6. Ephesians 4:1-8. The 1st Epistle of John 1: Mathew, 3:13-17. St. John 3:1-16. 10:1-50. 28:18-20. St Luke 24:45-53. If you wish another address on this subject, you have only to let me know, and it shall be attended to.
Yours truly, JOSEPH SMITH, Jr.
N. B. If Bishop Partridge, or if the church have not made a purchase of your land, and if there is not any one who feels a particular interest in making the purchase, you will hold it in reserve for us; we will purchase it of you at the proposals that you made to Mr. Barlow. We think the church would be wise in making the contract, therefore, if it is not made before we are liberated, we will make it.
Yours &c. JOSEPH SMITH, Jr.
For the Times and Seasons. Messrs. Editors. The High Council of this place has directed that I should say, that they have learned that your embarrassed situation, much presses you for funds to defray the unavoidable expenses attending your printing establishment. And having learned that from your subscribers and patrons, funds for the benefit of your press, have been sent by the hands of some persons whose integrity might have been thought pure, who have needlessly prevented such funds from reaching the place of destination. The high council wish a public expression of their entire disapprobation, to any, and all such acts of detentions of monies [moneys], intended for either the press, or any other use in the church.
The high council lament their poverty, in not being able, as agents for the church, to sustain the press, with funds necessary to effect a work so interesting and needful. One so much desired, and looked for, by our friends in the East, who, no doubt, desire to be often informed concerning the situation of us in the West; particularly since the Missouri outrage was committed on us. For the satisfaction of our friends, I might here say, that in contrasting our present situation with what it was one year ago, it should long since, have from us all, called forth the liveliest sensation of gratitude, and with homage have been tendered to our heavenly Benefactor; that He who scattered Israel, has wisely and mercifully directed our escape from the vengeance of a tyrant, who, through an unhallowed clan, dealt unmercifully to us, a train of afflicting circumstances of evils, that thrust upon us events of that foul and malicious tragedy, that forced from our bosoms to martyrdom, so many, who, to gather with the saints, left the land of their nativity and friends, and located themselves with us in the West. They are gone hence, and to our care, and protection, are left widows, orphans, and emaciated, and broken constitutions, that often terminate in martyrdom, by premature deaths, being brought on by sufferings and cruelties from a ruthless bandity of Governor Boggs, whose edict on us of exilement, forced us from our houses and the State, at in inclement season of the year. Imagination seemed nearly baffled for a time, where to find a resting place beneath the heavens.
But can we be permitted to congratulate the heavens, the church and the whole world, that we have located ourselves amid the republicans of the State of Illinois; about fifty miles above Quincy on the Mississippi River, in that State; where we have bought land, laid out a city, commenced building settling &c. The printing establishment, for a time, lingered by reason of long and tedious illness of the Editors; but is now in a promisory [promissory] prosperous operation, excepting a lack of funds needful to defray the inevitable expenses-for who but must know that it requires cash to prepare, and procure a suitable building, materials, paper, ink, &c. to enable them to print the first paper, and who can expect papers sent to them, without advancing the pay-or what elder acts wisely, as
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an agent, who needlessly detains monies [moneys] from the press.
The council requires that notice be published in your paper, that they express their disapprobation to all, and any needless detentions of any monies [moneys], that are, or shall be appropriated and intended for the press, or for any other purpose in the church. And that any, and all persons of our church who shall hereafter, needlessly detain any such monies [moneys], that this council resolve to discountenance any, and all such acts, and offending persons.
Done by order and vote of the Presidency, and high council, at Nauvoo, Illinois, Jan. 26, 1840 H. G. SHERWOOD, Scribe.
TIMES AND SEASONS
COMMERCE, ILL. FEB. 1840.
In this No. we publish a letter written by Joseph Smith jr. while confined in prison, in Missouri, addressed to Dr. Isaac Gallan, of this place.
We would call the attention of our readers to a careful perusal of said letter, at it shows the bold, frank, and independent spirit which prevaded [pervaded] the breast of Pres't Smith, while under the most adverse circumstances possible; also, his unshaken confidence in those things which we know, " which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the word of life."
Having a knowledge of the truth of those things of which he had testified, and which he had taught to the children of men; and knowing, also, that promulgating those principles, would secure to himself, as it had to the saints, in all ages of the world, the hatred malice and envy, of the wicked and ungodly; who love darkness rather than light, because their deeds are evil; therefore, when the pure principles of the gospel are declared unto them, they are ready to do any thing in their power, to destroy that person who dares thus plainly to declare the whole counsel of God; he was therefore prepared, in a great degree, for what ever persecution the enemies of righteousness and truth, were disposed to heap upon: consequently, when mobs raged, and persecution had reared its hydra head, and death with all its horrors, stared him full in the face, he stood firm and unshaken, having an assurance that He who had promised, was faithful and would deliver to the uttermost, all those who put their trust in him.
The letter from Dr. Galland, of which he speaks, was respecting a tract of land, of some 19 or 20,000 acres, situated in the southern extremity of Iowa Territory, and known as a part of the Half Breed land. This land has been purchased by Bishop Knight, for the church and some 10,000 acres besides in the same tract.
We have several epistles, written to the church , by Pres't Smith while a prisoner, which we intend to lay before our readers in their proper time and place..
HELP! HELP!
In almost every letter we receive from the travelling [traveling] Elders, strong solicitations are made for other Elders to come to their assistance, as the work of the Lord is pressing its way into almost all parts of the land; from city to city, from town to town, and from neighborhood to neighbor hood:
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even the Islands of the Sea have been saluted with the sound of the everlasting gospel, and have listened with intense anxiety to the glad tidings of great joy, which have been communicated to them by the servants of God; and thousands have been made to rejoice in the fullness of the gospel of our Lord and Saviour [Savior], Jesus Christ, through their instrumentality.
These things cheer us, and fill our hearts with gratitude to him who has said "that he would set his hand again the second time to recover the remnant of his people, which shall be left, from Assyria, and from Egypt, and from Pathros, and from Cush, and from Elam, and from Shinar, and from Hamath, and from the Islands of the Sea. And he shall set up an ensign for the nations, and shall assemble the outcasts of Israel, and gather together the dispersed of Judah from the four corners of the earth. Which work he has commenced, and called upon many fishers to fish them, [the children of Israel,] and after will send, saith the Lord, for many hunters and they shall hunt them from every mountain, and from every hill, and out of the holes of the rocks.
Many of those fishers and hunters have gone forth to accomplish the mission, whereunto God has called them, and we almost daily hear of their success in the ministry, and of the great blessing and joy which they receive, while performing their Master's will:-while others, within the circle of our acquaintance, who have received the same high and holy calling, tarry at home; some to prepare places and provision for their families, while they shall be absent, warning men every where to repent and be baptized for the remission of sins, and receive the gift of the Holy Ghost, which is promised unto all those who believe in Christ and obey his commandments. And again, there are some few, (we are sorry to have it to say,) who, instead of magnifying their calling, as becomes men of God, spend a good share of their time in idleness, and vain and foolish conversation, which propehteth nothing; but rather brings leanness and barrenness of soul; which is plainly to be seen in those of whom we are speaking, by the bad examples which they set, in squandering a portion of their time at public places, where poison is dealt to the unwary, and those of intemperate habits;and perhaps they occasionally yea, we fear, too often partake of the baneful cup; notwithstanding it is in direct opposition to the word of the Lord, given in the word of wisdom, as also, to the better feelings of man, If this was the only act of intemperence [intemperance] which has come under our observation, we should have been content to let the subject pass, for the present, with the foregoing remarks: but as there are other evil practices, which are calculated to retard the progress of the saint, in his spiritual walk, we feel it our duty to give them a brief notice at this time; such as the use of tobacco and other intoxicating nauseates, which tend to destroy the influence of the Holy Spirit, as it dwells not in unholy temples, but is an inmate of the bosom of those who live by every word which poceeds [proceeds] from the mouth of God.
Better, for better, would it be for those, who thus suffer the best of their days to pass unoccupied, and they led away by the allurements of the world and the temptations of satan, to the comission [commission] of acts of unrighteousness, and indulge themselves in evil and unholy practices, were they vigorously engaged in the cause which they have espoused, proclaiming the everlasting gospel to the inhabitants of the earth, and warning them to flee from the wrath to come; being instant in season and out of season, prepared at all times to go to the assistance of their fellow
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laborers, when called upon, in such strong terms, for help.
We sincerely hope, for the sake of the elders, and the cause of truth, that this will be the last time we shall be under the painful necessity of noticing those evils of which we have spoken; but rather, that we may have the gratification of seeing every man stand in his proper place approved.
We give in this number a list of Agents, for the Times and Seasons; they are men in whom we repose the utmost confidence, as far as our acquaintance extends: The most of them are ministers of the Lord Jesus, sent forth to proclaim the ever lasting gospel to the nations of the earth; their exertions have been untiring, in endeavoring to build up and establish the kingdom of God; they with many difficulties and privations, and stood the test of persecution thus far, while the press, the powerful engine for diffusing truth to the ends of the earth, which supports the same cause with themselves, has labored, and toiled under the most trying circumstances possible, and has been thrice destroyed by the enemies of truth; but, brethren and friends, the press is again endeavoring to rear itself; and inasmuch, as it is your object to publish the glad tidings of salvation, and diffuse light and intelligence to the human family, the press is with you, your cause then, is the cause of the press, and we have only to say, we want your aid, we want your influence, and also the influence of every lover of truth and righteousness, that the press may be established on a sure bases; that while you are lifting up the warning voice according to your abilities, that the press may strengthen your hands, by sending forth light, and penetrating all parts of the earth with its testimony; which testimony, we hope will grow brighter and brighter, and never cease, until the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the Lord; and vice shall have taken its exit to its own place, and truth and peace, shall have commenced its universal reign throughout the vast empire of God.
FROM THE ELDERS.
In order that it may be known who the laborers are that are pruning the Lord's vineyard, we feel it our duty, as well as a priviledge [privilege], to lay before our readers, either by summary or entire, as many of t he communications received from the travelling [traveling] elders as there is room or space so to do; knowing that the laborers in the North, are pleased to hear from those who are laboring in the South, and those in the East, to hear from the West, and those in the west to hear from the Islands of the Sea: for a knowledge of the spread of the gospel, is that which is calculated to gladden the heart and enliven the soul of every faithful laborer; and also, to stimulate those who have gone to their farms, and to their merchandize [merchandise], (like the appostles [apostles] of old to their netts [nets]) to gird on their armor, and go forth into the vineyard of the Lord, and labor with their mights, that no man shall take their crown.-Ed.
Jackson County, Ill. Dec. 26th 1839
Dear brethren in the Lord, having a few leisure moments I have taken my pen in hand to write a few lines to let you know what I have been doing since I saw you. I left Far West, last January the 14th and after a few days travel fell in company with Elder Jeremiah Mackley; we held three meetings in the State of Missouri, in the neighborhood of St. Charles; from thence we steered our course for this State, and after a few days travel we found ourselves in Jackson County where we commenced publishing the gospel, and very soon the honest in heart began to embrace the truth, after we had introduced eight souls into the kingdom and a number more believing. Br. Mackley was warned to leave and return to his family; then the whole burden rested on me; but the Lord was with me and confirmed my words with signs following; the sick were healed, and that not a few, and devils cast out also. I kept up a regular march until I had baptized 28, when Elder Benjamin Clapp arrived; we then with united force, pushed forth the conquest until we baptized 10 more;l we then organized them into branches and departed to travel to the south. I have just returned from the south and have found the brethren still firm in
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the faith, except a few who have tumbled over to try the faith of others as is usual. we had very good success for the time I stayed in the south, we held 25 meetings in McNary County Tennessee, and baptized 14 persons; we held 5 meetings in Tishamingo county, State of Mississippi and baptized 6 persons, and left a number who were believing. Br. B. Clapp is still preaching in the State of Mississippi and desires other Elders to come to his assistance.
I have understood that you are publishing the papers again, and I have taken some names, and have recieved [received] the pay for the same, and if you will send the papers you shall have the pay for them when I come; I will come by April conference if the Lord will; I desire an interest in the prayers of the saints. I feel to exhort the young Elders, who am young also, to gird on their armour [armor], walk out into the field and commence reaping, for the harvest is truly plentious [plenteous] and the laborers few.-The sooner we preach the gospel, the sooner we will have rest, for God cannot, in rightousness, bring about the Millemium [Millennium] until all are warned. No more at present, only yours &c. J. D. HUNTER.
Robinson & Smith.
Monroe, Dec. 11th, 1839
Br. D. C. Smith, Dear Sir, Having recently had an opportunity to hear from you, and the brethren in Ill. by way of br. Geo. Gee, who has just come to this place; I take the present opportunity to address you, and Elder George Smith, in western Tenn. From the place I left you I travelled [traveled] eastward about one hundred miles, where I had an opportunity of preaching a few times, but the prejudices, and opposition of the people were so great, that I did not think it profitable to stay in that region of country, consequently I left, and continued traveling eastward, the distance of one hundred miles or more; where I again commenced preaching, (in Overton co. Tenn.) here, I had some success, the way opened before me, and I found many friends who were very kind, and administered to my wants. I continued preaching in Overton during the winter, in the spring I commenced baptizing, and with the assistance of Br. Lewis, who came here and stayed a few days, seventeen were united with the church. Soon after this Br. Lee, and Stewart came to this country; I went with Lee into Jackson co. where we baptized twenty one more; Elder Stewart baptized two in White co., Brothers Steward and Lee, returned home to their families.
Thus, I have given a short history of my travels, and success since I saw you. I must acknowledge that my success has not been great, but considering the difficulties under which I have labored, arising from the great prejudices of the people, in consequence of hearing so many fabulous stories concerning our difficulties in Missouri; taking these and many other things into consideration, it cannot be expected that the work will be so readily received in this country as in the north.
Yours &c. JULIAN MOSES.
Dec. 3d. 1839
Cross Keys, Union District, S. C. Br. Robinson. Having concluded the public services, usually performed by the servants of God on his Holy Day; I propose to spend the evening, in addressing a few lines to you, that you and others may know something concerning the moral condition of this part of our Lord's vineyard.
I have been here something more than a month, and preached in various parts of the district. On my first arrival, I found br. E. M. Murphy, with whom you are acquainted; and with whom I have found an asylum, till the present time. Here also, I found a few; who through the instrumentality of br. Murphy, and the use of his books, were believing the gospel. I preached a few discourses, and baptized four persons, many others are believing.-Since that, I have continued preaching two or three times a week, and do not know how long I may continue.-There are plenty of priests here, plenty of professors, and plenty of all kinds of religion, that of Jesus Christ excepted
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The preaching of the Gospel here, produces the same effects, that the preaching of the same doctrine has in all places, and in all ages of the world, viz: all manner of abuse from hypocrites and vagabonds. Nevertheless, a tribute of thanksgiving and gratitude, is due to the author of all good, for in all my travels, during the last six months, through as many as eight different States, extending from the Mississippi to the Atlantic; he has not at any time left me at night without a place to lay my head; nor without a sufficient of food, to supply the demands of nature. I send you the names of five subscribers for the Times and Seasons, if the money will not answer your purpose send it back, and we will pay silver as soon as it can be sent. If any of our books can be obtained at Commerce, please notice it in you paper. Yours in the Gospel bonds
LYSANDER M. DAVIS
The following is a short extract from a letter written by Elder Orson Pratt, to his wife in this place, under date of January 6th, 1840.
I am well and hearty, after mailing the last letter to you in Pa. I went to Philadelphia, on Saturday the 21st of December, there I found President J. Smith jr., he had just arrived from Washington city, where he had been about 3 weeks-4 or 5 days after, Judge Higbee, with Porter Rockwell, came to Philadelphia; they are well. I wrote to P. P. Pratt to come and see Pres't Smith; he did so, and probably will go to Washington with him in a few days. I staid with brother Smith, in Philadelphia, about 8 days; we then took the rail road, and went some 35 or 40 miles, to a large branch of the church in Monmouth co. N. J. which numbers 90 members: there I left him on new year's day, and came to N. Y. where I am at present. Elder Winchester had when I left Philadelphia, baptized 45 in that city, and several more had given in their names for baptism, and scores believing. I preached in Chester co. Pa. about two weeks, and I think I may safely say there are hundreds believing. The work is prospering throughout all this region. Elders Taylor, Woodruff, and Turley sailed for Liverpool, Dec. 18th, while I was in Pa. none of the rest of the Twelve have yet arrived. I hear that brothers Young and Kimball are near Rochester in this state. I am all ready to start for England, and am only waiting for company. If some of the rest do not arrive soon, I think I shall start alone. There is a great call for books of Mormon. P. P. Pratt has another book printed, larger than the Voice of Warning, entitled the Millenium [Millennium], and other poems, and a piece on the eternal duration of matter.
We learn virbally [verbally] from Elder John E. Page, that within a few weeks past, he has baptized nine in the lower part of this county, about 8 miles south west from Carthage, and twenty from this place. Among those who embraced the gospel in that place is Mr. Sidney Knowlton and family, who have for several years been zealous members of the Campbellite society, and are personally acquainted with the leaders of that sect, consequently have become perfectly acquainted with all the principles of that doctrine; they are of the opinion that if Messrs. Campbell, Scott and others, had been attentive hearers to the lectures which had been delivered in their place, they would have become Mormons also. Br. Knowlton is one of the first citizens of Hancock co. and ranks with the first class of scientific Farmers. Elder Page, by the voice of that Branch of the church, ordained John J. DeGraw, to the office of an Elder.
From a letter written Nov. 7th, 1839, by Br's Daniel, and Norman B. Shearer, we learn that they have been busily engaged for the cause of the Redeemer; since they left this place, Sept. 14th, they had held twenty eight meetings, and baptized three, one of the number was formerly a Methodist preacher; some faithful elder is requested to call and instruct them more perfectly. They live three miles South of Pekin, Tazwell co. Ill.
Elder Jacob K. Chapman, writes from Harrison, Henry co. Indiana, under date of Jan. 9th 1810. He informs
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us that there is a great call for preaching in that section of country.
"Here is room (he says) for several Elders," he had baptized two worthy members, and many were anxiously enquiring [inquiring] in the work.
For the benefit of those who do not have the book of Mormon, and to stir up those who have, to peruse its valuable pages more strictly, we extract the following chapter.
And now I speak unto you, Joseph, my last born. Thou wast born in the wilderness of mine afflictions; yea, in the days of my greatest sorrow, did thy mother bear thee. And may the Lord consecrate also unto thee this land, for thine inheritance and the inheritance of thy seed with thy brethren, for thy security forever, if it so be that ye shall keep the commandments of the Holy One of Israel. And now, Joseph my last born whom I have brought out of the wilderness of my afflictions, may the Lord bless thee forever, for thy seed shall not utterly be destroyed.-For behold, thou art the fruit of my loins; and I am a decendant [descendent] of Joseph, who was carried captive into Egypt. And great were the covenants of the Lord, which he made unto Joseph; wherefore, Joseph truly saw our day. And he obtained a promise of the Lord, that out of the fruit of his loins, the Lord God would raise up a righteous branch unto the house of Israel; not the Messiah, but a branch was to be broken off; nevertheless, to be remembered in the covenants of the Lord, that the Messiah should be made manifest unto them in the latter days, in the spirit of power, unto the bringing of them out of darkness unto light; yea, out of hidden darkness and out of captivity unto freedom. For Joseph truly testified, saying: A seer shall the Lord my God raise up, who shall be a choice seer unto the fruit of my loins. Yea, Joseph truly said, thus saith the Lord unto me: A choice seer will I raise up out of the fruit of thy loins; and he shall be esteemed highly among the fruit of thy loins.-And unto him will I give commandment, that he shall do a work for the fruit of thy loins, his brethren, which shall be of great worth unto them, even to the bringing of them to the knowledge of the covenants which I have made with thy fathers. And I will make him great in mine eyes: for he shall do my work. And he shall be great like unto Moses, whom I have said I would raise up unto you, to deliver my people, O house of Israel.-And Moses will I raise up, to deliver thy people out of the land of Egypt.-But a seer will I raise up out of the fruit of thy loins; and unto him will I give power to bring forth my word unto the seed of thy loins: and not to the bringing forth my word only, saith the Lord, but to the convincing them of my word, which shall have already gone forth among them. Wherefore, the fruit of thy loins shall write; and the fruit of the loins of Judah shall write; and that which shall be written by the fruit of thy loins, and also that which shall be written by the fruit of the loins of Judah, shall grow together, unto the confounding of false doctrines, and laying down of contentions, and establishing peace among the fruit of thy loins, and bringing them to the knowledge of their fathers in the latter days; and also to the knowledge of my covenants, saith the Lord, And out of weakness he shall be made strong, in that day when my work shall commence among all my peoble [people], unto the restoring thee, O house of Israel, saith the Lord. And thus prophesied Joseph, saying: behold, that seer will the Lord bless; and they that seek to destroy him, shall be confounded: for this promise of which I have obtained of the Lord, of the fruit of thy loins, shall be fulfilled. Behold, I am sure of the fulfilling of this promise. And his name shall be called after me; and it shall be after the name of his father. And he shall be like unto me; for the things which the Lord shall bring forth by his hand, by the power of the Lord shall bring my people unto salvation; yea, thus prophesied Joseph, I am sure of this thing, even as I am sure of the promise of Moses: for the Lord hath said unto me, I will preserve thy seed forever. And the Lord hath said, I will raise up a Moses; and I will give power unto him in a rod; and I will give judgment unto him in writing. Yet I will not loose his tongue, that he shall speak much: for I will not make him mighty in
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speaking. But I will write unto him my law, by the finger of mine own hand; and I will make a spokesman for him. And the Lord said unto me also, I will raise up unto the fruit of thy loins; and I will make for him a spokesman. And I, behold, I will give unto him, that he shall write the writing of the fruit of thy loins, unto the fruit of thy loins; and the spokesman of thy loins shall declare it. And the words which he shall write, shall be the words which are expedient in my wisdom, should go forth unto the fruit of thy loins. And it shall be as if the fruit of thy loins had cried unto them from the dust: for I know their faith. And they shall cry from the dust; yea, even repentance unto their brethren, even after many generations have gone by them. And it shall come to pass that their cry shall go, even according to the simpleness of their words. Because of their faith, their words shall proceed forth out of my mouth unto their brethren, who are the fruit of thy loins; and the weakness of their words will I make strong in their faith, unto the remembering of my covenant which I made unto thy fathers.
And now, behold, my son Joseph, after this manner did my father of old prophesy. Wherefore, because of this covenant thou art blessed: for thy seed shall not be destroyed, for they shall hearken unto the words of the book.-And there shall raise up one mighty among them, who shall do much good, both in word and in deed, being an instrument in the hands of God, with exceeding faith, to work mighty wonders, and to do that thing which is great in the sight of God, unto the bringing to pass much restoration unto the house of Israel, and unto the seed of thy brethren. And now, blessed art thou, Joseph. Behold, thou art little; wherefore, hearken unto the words of thy brother Nephi, and it shall be done unto thee, even according to the words which I have spoken. Remember the words of thy dying father. Amen.
INFORMATION WANTED.
Mrs. Clarisy S. Smith, of Jacksonvil Morgan County Illinois, is very anxious to obtain information concerning her father and brother, Mr. Asa Lyman and Asa Lyman Jr. the last account from them was in August, 1838, they were then in the Maumee country Ohio.
Any information from them or from any person who may have any knowledge where they are, will greatly alleviate the family of a Daughter and friends.
Editors in that country are requested to notice the above.
IMPORTANT TO EDITORS.
The following is an extract from the instructions recently addressed to all the postmasters of the United States by the Postmaster General:
"Postmasters may enclose money in a letter to a publisher of a newspaper, to pay the subscription of a third person, and frank the letter, if written by himself."
This liberal regulation will be highly advantageous to the interest of the newspaper press, and therefore favorable to the general distribution of public information.-N. Y. Era
POSTSCRIPT-Just as our paper was going to press, we received a letter from Philadelphia, stating that a conference had been held in that city, Jan. 14, at which J. Smith jr. and S. Rigdon presided; the work has got strong hold there; thousands believing. News from Washington, favorable as could be expected.
OBITUARY.
DIED-In Quincy, on the 13th of August Charles Son of Joseph & Phebe Knights, aged 2 years 9 months 10 days.
-In this Place Nov. 27, Sally Blodget, consort of Neuman Blodget aged 34 years.
-In Quincy, June 10th, 1839, Hyram K. Petagrew aged 18 years, 6 months.
-In Nashville, Lee county Iowa Territory, August 13th, 1839, Martha Elen, daughter, of James and Polly Goff, aged 7 months and 25 days.
-In Lee co. Iowa Territory, July 21st, 1839, John A. Wyman, son of John, and Polly Wyman, aged, 7 years, 19 days.
-Near Carthage, at the house of Noah Pachard. on the 16th of Oct. Miss Caroline Rogers, formerly from McDonough co. N. Y. aged, about 22 years.
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HYMENIAL.
MARRIED,-In this place Nov. 24th 1839, by Elder Levi Jackman, Mr. Artemus Johnson, to Miss Almira Ayers; both of this town.
-In Montebello, on the 28th Dec. by the same, Mr. Naham Curtis, to Mrs. Delia Richardson.
-In this place by Elder T. Grover Mr. George Smith, to Miss Elizabeth Forney.
-In Lee co. Iowa Territory, on the 23rd of January 1840, by Elder Charles C. Rich, Mr. Thomas Rich, to Miss Henrietta Peck.
For the Times and Seasons ZION IN CAPTIVITY. A LAMENTATION BY P. P. PRATT, WHILE CHAINED IN PRISON.
Torn from our friends, and captive led How long, O Lord! will thou forsake
'Mid armed legions, bound in chains; The saints, who tremble at thy word?
That peace for which our Fathers bled, Awake! O arm of God, awake!
'Tis gone, and dire confusion reigns. And teach the nations thou art God.
Zion our peaceful happy home, Descend with all thy holy throng,
Where of't we've joined in praise and prayer, The year of thy redeemed bring near,
A desolation has become, Haste, haste, the day of vengeance on,
And grief and sorrow lingers there. Bid Zion's children dry their tears.
Her virgins sigh, her widows mourn. Deliver Lord, thy captive saints,
Her children for their parents weep; And comfort those who long have mourn'd;
In chains her priests and prophets groan, Bid Zion cease her dire complaints,
While some in death's cold arms do sleep. And all reaction cease to mourn.
Exultingly, her savage foes,
Now ravage, steal, and plunder, where
A virgins tears, and widow's woes
Become their song of triumph there.
AGENTS FOR THE TIMES AND SEASONS. IN ILLINOIS.
John E. Page, Warsaw. Hancock Co.
William Smith, Plymouth. Hancock Co.
Joel H. Johnson, Carthage. - -
S. B. Stoddard, Quincy. Adams Co.
Elisha H. Groves, Columbus, - -
Harlow Redfield, Pittsfield, Pike Co.
Daniel Tyler, Griggsville - -
John Vance, Macomb, McDonough Co.
Jared Carter, Springfield, Sangamon Co.
John Gaylord, Victoria, Knox Co.
Lewis Robbins, Rushville, Schuyler Co.
Jabez Capps, P. M. Mount Pulaski, Logan Co.
Wm. Johnson, Lewiston, Fulton Co.
PENNSYLVANIA.
Benj. Winchester, Philadelphia.
Stephen Post, Centreville, Crawford Co.
Charles Carter, P. M. Beaver, Beaver Co.
Wm. P. McIntire, Strongstown, Indiana Co.
NEW YORK. Joseph L. Robinson, West Leyden Lewis Co.
MASSACHUSETTS. Nathaniel Holmes, Georgetown, Essex Co.
NEW HAMPSHIRE Chilon Mack, P.M. Gilsum
Zadock Parker, Lisbon, Grafton Co.
ENGLAND.
John Taylor, Willard Richards,
Hyram Clark, Wilford Woodruff,
Theodore Turley, Joseph P. Fielding.
SCOTLAND. Samuel Mulliner, Edinburgh.
TRAVELLING [TRAVELING] AGENTS.
Almon Babbit, P. P. Pratt,
Orson Pratt, Heber C. Kimball,
Brigham Young, George A. Smith.
Lorenzo Barns, Albert Brown,
Samuel James, Daniel Shearer,
Alexander Williams, James Blakeslee,
Esaias Edwards, Benjamin Clapp.
SOUTH CAROLINA. Lysander M. Davis,
TENNESSE [TENNESSEE]. Julian Moses, G. H. Brandon.
NORTH CAROLINA. Jedadiah M. Grant.
THE TIMES AND SEASONS,
Is printed and published every month, at Commerce, Hancock co. Ill. by
E. ROBINSON AND D. C. SMITH, EDITORS AND PROPRIETORS.
TERMS: One dollar per annum, payable, in all cases, in advance. Any person procuring 10 subscribers, and forwarding us ten dollars current money, shall receive one volume gratis. Letters on business must be addressed to the Publishers, POST PAID.
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