Previous chapter 
Table of Contents 
Next chapter
Previous chapter Table of Contents Next chapter
Vol. 2. No. 24.] CITY OF NAUVOO, ILL. Oct. 15, 1841 [Whole No. 36..
An Epistle of the Twelve.
To the brethren scattered abroad on the Continent of America, Greeting:
Beloved Brethren.
It seemeth good to us to write unto you at this time concerning the great things of the kingdom of our God, and more especially as we have been called upon by the late General Conference, so to do; that the work may not be hindred [hindered] but that all may understand their privilege and duty in this day of glorious events, so that by exercising themselves therein, they may attain unto those blessings which God has in store for his people in the last days.
We have abundant occasion, and we rejoice exceedingly at the privilege we have had of beholding so many thousands of our brethren and sisters as were assembled at the late conference, and for the most perfect harmony and good feeling which prevailed throughout all their deliberations; for the great amount of valuable instructions by President Joseph Smith and others; and for the disposition which we have seen manifested, by all who were present to carry into effect all those noble plans and principles which were derived from heaven, and have been handed down to earth to carry forward the great and glorious work which is already commenced, and which must be consummated to secure the salvation of Israel.
While the minutes of the General Conference are before you, which will be read with interest by every lover of Zion, we shall recapitulate some items and detail more particularly to the understanding of those who had not the privilege of being present on that interesting occasion, the past, present and future situation and prospects of the church, and the stakes, and those things which immediately concern their best interests.
A short time since and the saints were fleeing before their enemies. Whips, imprisonments, tortures and death stared them in the face, and they were compelled to seek an assylum [asylum] iu [in] a land of strangers. They sought, they found it within the peaceful bosom of Illinois; a State whose citizens are inspired with a love of liberty; whose souls are endued with those noble principles of charity and benevolence which ever bid the stranger welcome and minister to his wants: in this State, whose soil is vieing [vying] with its citizens in all that is good and lovely, the saints have found a resting place, where, freed from tyrany [tyranny] and mobs, they are beginning to realize the fulfilment [fulfillment] of the ancient prophets, "they shall build houses and inhabit them, plant vineyards and eat the fruit thereof, having none to molest or make afraid."
In this city the church has succeeded in securing several extensive plats of land, which have been laid out in city lots, a part of which have been sold, a part has been distributed to the widow and the orphan, and a part remains for sale. These lots are for the inheritance of the saints, a resting place for the church, a habitation for the God of Jacob for there he has commanded a house to be built unto his name where he may manifest himself unto his people as in former times. when he caused the ark, the tabernacle and the temple to be reared and the cloud and the fire to rest down thereon; and not that the temple be built only, but that it be completed quickly, and that no more general conference be held, till it shall be held therein; and that the Nauvoo House be finished for the acoomodation [accommodation] of the brethren from afar, and the stranger who shall come up hither to inquire after the work of the Lord and worship in his Temple.
Scores of brethren in this city, have offered to board one and two laborers each till the Temple is completed; many have volunteered to labor continually, and the brethren generally are giving one tenth part of their time, or one tenth part of their income, according to circumstances; while those sisters, who can do nothing more, are knitting socks and mittens and preparing garments for the laborers, so that they may be made as comfortable as possible during the coming winter. In view of these things we would invite our brethren for many miles distant around us to send in their teams for drawing stone, lumber, and materials for the buildings; and at the same time
(page 567)
load their waggons [wagons] with all kinds of grain and meat, provision and clothing; and hay and provinder [provender] in abundance, that the laborer faint not, and the teams be made strong: also that journeymen, stonecutters &c. come bringing their tools with them and enlist in 'the glorious enterprize [enterprise].
Most of the plats in this city before referred to, as well as several farms and large lots of land in this and the adjoining counties are paid for, and are secured to the church by good and sufficient titles; while the town plat for the Town of Warren near Warsaw is secured on such conditions that the brethren can be accommodated with lots on very reasonable terms; but the large plat in Nauvoo purchased of Messrs. Hotchkiss, Tuttle & C. of New Haven, Conn., remains unpaid for, and the time has now arrived, when it is very desirable on the part of the church as well as on the part of the gentlemen of whom it was purchased, that payment should be made and a warrantee title secured; to accomplish which we have been called upon by the united voice of the General Conference to address the churches in the eastern states to advise with the brethren in those regions, and devise ways and means whereby this debt may be liquidated, Hotchkiss & Co. satisfied, the plot secured to the church, and the brethren in the east at the same time transfer their real estate from the place where it now is, to this city or region of country according to their desire.
The contract for the "Hotchkiss purchase" in Nauvoo, consisting of upwards of five hundred acres, was entered into on, or about the 9th of August 1839, for the specified sum of fifty three thousand five hundred dollars, and security was given to Messrs. H. R. Hotchkies [Hotchkiss], Smith Tuttle, and John Gillet, for the amount of the same in two notes of equal amount, one payable in ten years, and the other in twenty years from the date thereof signed by Messrs. Hyrum Smith, Joseph Smith, and Sidney Rigdon. In August last, interest to the amount of six thousand dollars, or upwards, had accumulated on said notes which it has not been in the power of the church to pay up to the present time. The nature of this purchase and the situation of the church is such, that it is necessary that the note should be taken up, the interest stopped, and a warrantee title secured immediately; and a correspondence is now in progress with Messrs. Hotchkies [Hotchkiss] & Co. to effect this thing, and bring forward a final settlement.
But, say you, what can we do to accomplish this great and desirable object? Let the brethren in the eastern states, who have lands which they wish to dispose of, so that they may remove hither and secure to themselves an inheritance among the saints, either in the cities or farms in the vicinity, and are willing to have their lands in the east made over to Messrs. Hotchkies [Hotchkiss] & Co. towards the payment of the foregoing notes, communicate with us immediately, at this place, stating to us the extent and value of their property. Then as soon as we shall have received communications concerning property sufficient to cancel the obligations, and the necessary preliminaries are understood with Messrs. Hotchkies [Hotchkiss] & Co., we will dispatch an agent to New Haven, to complete the negociotion [negotiation], transfer your property, take up the notes, and secure a deed; and those whose property is thus transferred can have the value thereof here, in city lots, or lands in the vicinity; and thus your property will prove to you as good as money, inasmuch as you desire to emigrate, and you will no longer be obliged to tarry afar off, because that money is so scarce you cannot sell and get your pay. If there are those among you, to whom God has given in abundance, and they desire to appropiate [appropriate] some portion thereof for the benefit of his people; for the redemption of Zion; for a blessing to the widows of those who have been slain for the word of God, and been buried in a well, for a sustenance to their fatherless children, and provide for them a habitation, they cannot do it more effectually than by devoting a portion of their sustenance towards liquidating this claim.
To those brethren who live so far distant that they cannot send in their loaded teams, and yet desire to assist in building the Lord's House, we would say, gather yourselves together and bring of your substance, your silver, and gold, and apparel and of your superabundance cast into the treasury of the Lord and see if be [he] will not pour you out a blessing till there is not room enough to receive it.
Brethren the blessings of the kingdom are for you, for the body of Christ, for
(page 568)
all the members, and God will help those who will help themselves, and bless those who will bless each other, and do as they would be done unto. The gold and the silver is the Lords; all the treasures of the earth, the flocks and the herds of the fields and the cattle of the thousand hills are his; if he were hungry would he crave thy food, or thirsty would he ask thy drink? Nay! he would only ask that which was his own, he would feast on his own flocks and quench his thirst at his own springs. This God is the God of the saints, he is your God, and he has made you stewards of all that has been committed to you, and will require his own with usury; and will you not be faithful in a little that you may be made rulers over many cities? Yes, you will, we know you will.
The journeyings and gatherings, and building of the saints are nothing new, and as they are expecting, looking and praying for the completion of the dispensation of the fullness of times, they must also expect that their progress will be onward or they will be of no avail, for what is not of faith is sin, and can you believe that God will hear your prayers, and bring you on your journey, gather you, and build your houses, and you not put forth one hand or make one exertion to help yourselves? No! therefore inasmuch as the saints believe that father Abraham journeyed to a distant land, at the command of the Highest, where himself and household, (whose household we are, if we keep the commandments,) might enjoy the fruits of their labors unmolested, and worship the God of heaven according to the dictates of their own conscience and his law. That his seed afterwards gathered to Canaan, the Land of Promise; that David was commanded to build a house where the Son of Man might have a place to lay his head, and the diciples [disciple] be endued with power from on high, and were with one accord in one place; they must also believe that this dispensation comprehends all the great works of all former dispensations; and that the children must gather as did the fathers, must build a house, where they may be endued, and be found together worshipping and doing as their fathers did, when Jehovah spake and the angels of heaven ministered unto them; and if these things are not in this generation then we have not arrived at the dispensation of the fullness of times as we anticipate and our faith and prayers are vain.
Is it that we labor in vain, and toil for nought [naught], and that we shall be disappointed at the last? No! we know assuredly that the set time to favor Zion has come, and her sons and daughters shall rejoice in her glory. The time has come when the great Jehovah would have a resting place on earth, a habitation for his chosen, where his law shall be revealed, and his servants be endued from on high, to bring together the honest in heart form the four winds; where the saints may enter the Baptismal Font for their dead relations, so that they may be judged according to men in the flesh, and live according to God in the spirit, and come forth in the celestial kingdom; a place, over which the heavenly messengers may watch and trouble the waters as in days of old, so that when the sick are put therein they shall be made whole; a place where all the ordinances shall be made manifest and the saints shall unite in the songs of Zion, even praise, thanksgiving and hallelujahs to God and the Lamb, that he has wrought out their deliverance, and bound satan fast in chains.
What then shall we do? Let us all arise and with one united and mighty exertion, by the strength of Israel's God, oppose the powers of darkness, and every being and principle that may rise up against us, and complete the work already commenced. Let us not for a moment lend an ear to evil and designing men, who would subvert the truth, and blacken the character of the servant of the Most High God, by publishing abroad that the prophet is enriching himself on the spoils of the brethren. When Br. Joseph stated to the general conference the amount and situation of the property of the church, of which he is trustee in trust by the united voice of the church, he also stated the amount of his own possessions on earth; and what do you think it was? we will tell you; his old Charley horse, given him in Kirtland; two pet deer; two old turkeys, and four young ones; the old cow given him by a brother in Missouri, his old Major, dog; his wife, children, and a little household furniture, and this is the amount of the great possessions of that man whom God has called to lead his people in these last days; this the sum total of the great estates, the splendid
(page 569)
mansions and noble living of him who has spent a life of toil and suffering, of privation and hardships, of imprisonments and chains, of dungeons and vexatious suits, and every kind of contumely and contemps [contemptuous] ungodly men could heap upon him, and last of all report him as rolling in wealth and luxury which he had plundered from the spoils of those for whose good he had thus toiled and suffered. Who would be willing to suffer what he has suffered, and labor near twenty years as he has done, for the wealth he is in possession of?
Brethren, in view of all these things let us be up and doing. Let those in the eastern states use all dilligence [diligence] in communicating to us their ability to assist in the Hotchkiss payment, being assured that no exertion they can make, will equal what has already been made for them and the church generally; and let all the saints come up to the places of gathering, and with their mites and their apandence as God has given them in trust, help to build up the old waste places which have been thrown down for many generations, knowing, that when they are completed, they will belong unto the people of the Most High God, even the meek, the honest in heart, he shall possess all things in the due time of the Lord. Be not covetous, but deal in righteousness, for what the saints shall not possess by purchase and in righteoasness [righteousness] they shall not possess for no unrighteous thing can enter into the kingdom; therefore, beloved bretbren [brethren], deal justly, love mercy, walk humbly before God, and whatever your hands find to do, do it with your might, keeping all the commandments, and then, whether in life or in death, all things will be yours, whether they be temples or lands, houses or vineyards, baptisms or enduements [endowments], revelations or healings, all things will be yours, for you will be Christ's and Christ is God's.
Brigham Young,
Heber C. Kimball,
Orson Pratt,
Lyman Wight,
John Taylor,
Wilford Woodruff,
Geo. A. Smith,
Willard Richards,
Nauvoo Oct. 12th, 1841.
Letter From Elder Hyde.
Ratisbon, on the Danube, July 17, 1841.
Dear Bro. Joseph, and all whom it may concern.
With pleasure I take my pen to write to you at this time, hoping this communication may find you as it leaves me, in good health and enjoying a comfortable measure of the Holy Spirit.
On the 20th of June last, I left London for Rotterdam, in Holland, after writing a lengthy epistle to you, and also the copy of a letter addressed to the Rev. Doct. S. Hirschell, President Rabbi of the Hebrews in London, which I hope you have received ere this. The work of the Lord was steadily advancing in London under the efficient and zealous labours [labors] of our worthy brother, Elder L. Snow.
The fine Steamer, Battavier, brought me safely over the billows of a tremendous rough sea in about 30 hours. Never did I suffer more from sea-sickness than during this short voyage; but it was soon over and we landed safely in Rotterdam. I took my lodgings at the London Hotel at two florins per diem, about three shillings and five pence sterling, or seventy five cents. Here I called on the Hebrew Rabbi, and proposed certain questions to him; but as he did not understand a word of English, it was hard for me to enter into particulars with him. I asked him, however, whether he expected his Mesiah [Messiah] to come directly from Heaven, or whether he expected him to be born of a woman on earth. He replied, that he expected him to be born of a woman, of the seed and lineage of David. At what period do you look for this event? Ans. "We have been looking a long time, and are now living in constant expectation of his coming." Do you believe in the restitution of your nation to the land of your fathers, called the land of promise: "We hope it will be so," was the reply. He then added, "We believe that many Jews will return to Jerusalem and rebuild the city-rear a Temple to the name of the Most High, and restore our ancient worship." "Jerusalem shall be the capital of our nation-the centre [center] of our union, and the Standard and Ensign of our national existence. But we do not believe that all the Jews will go there, for the place is not large enough to contain them. They are now gathering there,"
(page 570)
continued he, "almost continually." I told him that I had written an address to the Hebrews, and was about procuring its publication in hi own language; (dutch) and when completed, I would leave him a copy. He thanked me for this token of respect, and I bade him adieu. I soon obtained the publication of five hundred copies of the address, and left one at he house of the Rabbi-he being absent from home, I did not see him.
After remaining here about one week, I took the coach for Amsterdam, distance 7 hours, or about 30 English miles. Rotterdam is a fine town of about 80 thousand inhabitants. The cleanliness of its streets, the antique order of its architecture, the extreme height of its buildings, the numerous shade trees with which it is beautified, and the great number of canals through almost every part of the town filled with ships of various sizes from different parts of the world; all these, with many other things not mentioned contributed to give this place a peculiararity [peculiarity] resembled no where else in the course of my travels, except in Amsterdam. Most of the business men her speak a little English-some speak it very well. In ascending the waters of the Rhine from the sea to Rotterdam, the numerous Wind-mills which I beheld in constant operation, led me to think, almost, that all Europe came here for their grinding. But I ascertained that they were grinding for distilleries, where the floods of gin are made, which, not only, deluge our beloved country with fatal consequences, but many others. Gin is one the principal articles of exportation from this country. In going to Amsterdam, I passed through a very beautiful town called "the Hague," the residence of the King of Holland. I saw this palace which was guarded by soldiers, both horse and foot. For grandeur it bore but a faint resemblance to Buckingham Palace in London; But the beautiful parks and picturesque scenery in and about the Hague, I have never seen equaled in any country. I remained in Amsterdam only one night, and a part of two days-I called on the President Rabbi, here but he was gone from home. I left at his house a large number of the addresses for himself and his peolpe [people], and took coach for Arnheim on the Rhine. Took boat the same evening for Mazenty. Travelling [Traveling] by coach and steam is rather cheaper in this county than in the U. States. We were three days in going up the Rhine to Mazenty. Holland and the lower part of Prusia [Prussia] are very low flat countries. The French and German language are spoken all along the Rhine; but little or no English. The Rhine is about like the Ohio for size, near its mouth where it empties into the Mississippi. Its waters resemble the Missouri waters, dark and muddy. The scenery and landscapes along this river have been endowed with art and nature's choicest gifts. I have been made acquainted with Europe, in America, by books, to a certain extent; yet now my eyes behold!! It is impossible for a written description of a stranger's beauty, to leave the same impression upon the mind, as is made by an ocular view of the lovely object. This is the difference between reading of and seeing the countries of Europe.
From Mazenty I came to Frankfort on the Main, by railroad-distance 7 hours. From Frankfort, I came to this place-distance about 30 hours, where Napoleon gained a celebrated victory over the Prusians [Prussians] and Austrians. The very ground on which I now write this letter, was covered by about 60 thousand slain in that battle. It is called the battle of Ackynaeal.
It was my intention to have gone directly down the Danube to Constantinople; but having neglected to get my passport vezayed [vi-saed] by the Austrian Embassador [ambassador] at Frankfort, I had to forward it to the Austrian Embassador [Ambassador] at Munich and procure his permission, signature, and seal, before I could enter the Austrian dominions. This detained me five days, during which time I conceived the idea of sitting down and learning the German language scientifically. I became acquainted with a lady here who speaks French and German to admiration, and she was very anxious to speak the English-she proposed giving me instruction in the German if I would instruct her in English. I accepted her proposal. I have been engaged eight days in this task. I have read one book through and part of another, and translated and written coniderable [considerable]. I can speak and write the German considerable already, and the lady tells me that I make astonishing progress. From the past experience, I know that the keen edge of any work translated by a stranger in whose heart the spirit
(page 571)
it of the matter does not dwell, is lost-the life and animation thereof, die away into a cold monotony, and it becomes almost entirely another thing. This step is according to the best light I can get, and hope and trust that it is according to the mind of the Lord. The people will hardly believe but that I have spoken German before; but I tell them, neicht, not. The German is spoken in Prussia, Bavaria, and in all the States of Germany-Austria-the south of Russia, and in fine more or less all over Europe. It appears to me, therefore, that some person of some little experience ought to know this language so as to translate himself without being dependant [dependent] on strangers. If I am wrong in my movement, pray that the spirit of the Lord may direct me aright. If I am right, pray that Heaven may speedily give me this language. It is very sickly in Constantinople, Syria and Alexandria, at present; I would rather, therefore, wait until cool weather before I go there. I might have written most of this letter in German; but as you would more readily understand it in English, I have written it in English.
With pleasure I leave the historical part of my letter, to touch a softer note, and give vent to the feelings of my heart.
I hope and trust that the cause which you so fearlessly advocate, is rolling forth in America, with that firm and steady motion which characterizes the work of Jehovah. The enemies which we are forced to encounter are numerous, strong, shrewd and cunning. Their leader transfuses into them his own spirit, and brings them into close alliance with the numerous hosts of precious immortals who have been earlier taken captives by the haughty Tyrant, and sacrificed upon the altar of iniquity, transgression and sin. May it please our Father in Heaven to throw around thee his protecting arms,-to place beneath thee Almighty strength, ever buoy thy head above the raging waves of tribulation through which the chart of destiny has evidently marked thy course. Happy in the enjoyment of the distinguished consideration with which Heaven's favor, alone, has endowed me, of bearing, with you, some humble part in laying the foundation of the glorious kingdom of Mesiah [Messiah] which is destined, in its onward course, to break in pieces and destroy all others and stand forever.
The friendship and good-will which are breathed towards me through all your letters, are received as the legacy which noble minds and generous hearts are ever anxious to bequeath. They soften the hard and rugged path in which Heaven has directed my course. They are buoyancy in depression,-joy in sorrow; and when the dark clouds of desponding hope are gathering thick around the mental horizon, like a kind angel from the foundation of mercy, they dispel the gloom, dry the tear of sorrow, and pour humanitie's [humanity's] healing balm into my grieved and sorrowful heart. Be assured, therefore, Bro. Joseph, that affusions [effusions] from the altar of a greatful [grateful] heart are smoking to Heaven, daily, in thy behalf; and not only in thine, but in behalf of all Zion's suffering sons and daughters whose generous magnanimity will ever environ and adorn the brow of the object of their compassion. Tho now far separated from you; and also from her who, with me, has suffered the chilling blasts of adversity, yet hope lingers in this bosom, brightened almost into certainty by the implicit confidence reposed in the virtue of that call which was borne on the gentle breeze of the spirit of God through the dark shades of midnight gloom, 'till it found a mansion in my anxious and enquiring [inquiring] heart, that my feet shall once more press the American soil; and under the shade of her steaming banner, embrace again the friends I love.
I never knew that I was, in reality, an American, until I walked out one fine morning in Rotterdam along the wharf, where many ships lay in the waters of the Rhine: Suddenly my eye caught a broad pendant floating in a gentle breeze over the stern of a fine ship at half-mizzen-mast; and when I saw the wide-spread Eagle perched on her banner, with the stripes and stars under which our fathers were led on to conquest and victory, my heart leaped into my mouth, a flood of tears burst from my eyes, and before reflection could mature a sentence, my mouth, involuntarily, gave birth to these words, "I am an American!"
To see the flag of one's country in a strange land, and floating upon strange waters, produces feelings which none can know except those who experience them. I can now say that I am an American. While at home, the warmth and fire of the American spirit lay in silent
(page 572)
slumber in my bosom; but the winds of foreign climes have fanned it into a flame.
I have seen some of the finest specimens of painting and sculpture of both ancient and modern times. The vast variety of curiosities, also, from every country on the Globe, together with every novelty that genius could invent or imagination conceive which I have been compelled to witness in the course of my travels, would be too heavy a tax upon my time to describe, and upon your patience to read. I have witnessed the wealth and splendor of many of the towns of Europe,-have gazed with admiration upon her widely extended plains-her lofty mountains-her mouldering [moldering] castles,-and her extensive vineyards: For at this season, nature is clad in her bridal robes, and smiles under the benign jurisprudence of her Author.
I have, also, listened to the blandishments, gazed upon the pride and fashion of a world grown old in luxury and refinement, viewed the pageantry of Kings, Queens, lord and nobles; and am now where military honor, and princely dignity, nuts bow at the shrine of clerical superiority. In fine, my mind has become cloyed with novelty, pomp and show; and turns with disgust from the glare of fashion to commune with itself in retired meditation.
Were it consistent with the will of Deity, and consonant with the convictions of my own bosom; most gladly would I retreat from the oppressing heat of public life, and seek repose in the cool and refreshing shades of domestic endearments, and bask in the affections of my own little family circle. But the will of God be done! Can the Mesiah's [Messiah's] kingdom but be advanced through my toil, privation, and excessive labours [labors]; and at last sanctify my work through the effusion of my own blood! I yield, O Lord! I yield to they righteous mandate! Imploring help from thee in the hour of trial, and strength in the day of weakness to faithfully endure until my immortal spirit shall be driven form its earthly mansion to find a refuge in the bosom of its God.
If the friends in America shall be edefied [edified] in reading this letter from Bro. Hyde, I hope they will remember one thing; and that is this; that he hopes he has a wife and two children living there; but the distance is so great between him and them, that his arm is not long enough to administer to their wants. I have said enough. Lord, bless my wife and children, and the hand that ministers good to them in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen. Adieu for the present.
Good rest on all the saints,
throughout the world,
Orson Hyde.
For the Times and Seasons.
Ramus
A Latin word which signifies a branch. This place was laid out about the first of last September; is situated in Hancock county on the county road leading from Nauvoo through Carthage to Macomb, and but a short distance from Crooked creek.
It was laid out, and organized a stake, by authority of the first Presidency of the church, after the same plan and order of the City of Nauvoo. In Rameus [Ramus] there is now built and in progress, about one hundred buildings, with a continual increase of population; and is surrounded by a beautiful and fertile district of land, including a variety of prairie and timber, and as it is situated near Crooked, creek 20 miles from Nauvoo, it has the advantages of timber, and privileges of mills, so common in this part of the county.-Good farms and farming land can be purchased in the vicinity, on very reasonable and accomodating [accommodating] terms.
The local situation of the place, its good health, fine water, convenience to mills, beautiful prairies, handsome timber, extensive pasturage ranges, and the many advantages and inducements to agriculture, are a sufficient recommendation to those wishing to locate themselves in this part of the county. Those emigrating from the east will find the most eligible and commodius [commodious] roate [route] from Springfield, (capitol of the state,) to be through Beardstown, Rushville, Macomb and Rameus [Ramus], to the city of Nauvoo.
Done by order of the High Council of the Stake.
Joel H. Johnson, Pres't
J. E. Johnson, Clerk.
Rameus [Ramus], Aug. 24th, 1841.
Augustus C. Dodge has been elected to Congress, as delegate for Iowa: and his father, Gen Henry Dodge, is elected by the people of Wisconsin for a similar station,.
(page 573)
Times and Seasons.
City of Nauvoo,
Friday, Oct. 1, 1841
The Third Volume.
With this No. closes the second vol. of the Times and Seasons; the third vol. will be published upon the same principle of the 2nd. From the very liberal support which this paper has received, we are sanguine in the expectation, that the succeeding volume will receive the same extensive patronage which has been bestowed upon the present and first volume. It is now circulated in every State and Territory in the Union, also in both the Canadas and Europe.
We shall endeavor to pursue, as heretofore, a fearless upright course, and defend the cause of truth whenever assailed by reasonable and candid men, with all candor and soberness; but shall not condescend to notice many of the false and slanderous reports, put in circulation by low and worthless wretches, who disregard all rules of honor and decorum, but who make unprovoked attacks upon a community of people because they do not believe precisely with themselves, in religious matters.
The interest of the succeeding volume will be greatly enhanced, from the fact of our being in the regular receipt of communications from Elder O. Hyde, our missionary to Palestine, who is now in Central Europe, on his way to the Holy Land; his letters will be perused with pleasure and deep interest by all the well wishers to the ancient people of God-the children of Israel.
Our terms are Two Dollars per annum in advance. The paper will be discontinued at the expiration of the time paid for.
The following is an extract from the instructions recently addressed to all the Post Masters of the United States by the Post Master General:
"Post Masters 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."
The editor of the Warsaw Signal has proven our sayings to be correct, by manifesting his hostility towards us, as he was one of the individuals refered [referred] to in our remarks. We still assert, that with the exception of himself and the Messrs. Kilbourns of Montrose, we know of no hostile feelings between us and our neighbors.
An Address to the Citizens of Salem (Mass.) and Vicinity,
By E. Snow and B. Winchester.
Elders of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
Respected Citizens,-
The object of our visit to your city is not to subvert any moral or truly Christian principle, or to promulgate any doctrine other than that which was advocated by Patriarchs, Prophets, Christ and the Apostles; which doctrine or gospel, we believe is the same invariable plan of salvation that it ever was, and that it ought to be taught, administered and obeyed in the present age, precisely as it was in the primitive or golden period of Christianity.
We believe the liberty of conscience to be a pearl of great value, and sacred to every son and daughter of Columbia, and though we differ in some points of doctrine from other sects in Christendom, yet like the veteran patriots who fought for the liberty of our country, we believe the right of conscience as far as religious faith is concerned, should in no case be suppressed; but that every man should worship God according to his own views without molestation.
We certainly opine that we should retract from our duty, if we should descend from the dignity which characterizes every gentleman, and stoop so low as to use the vile weapon of abuse, slander, epithets, and persecution, which so much degrade the human species, to stop the progress of any doctrine, however absurd it may be. Scripture, reason, and kind treatment, should be the only weapons used. We consider that every man ought to be treated with that respect which he, by his conduct and bearing merits, no matter how much his religious faith differs from his neighbors, or whether it is popular or unpopular: and should we instead of combating error with truth, and exposing incorrect principles with sound argument, resort to a crusade of slander, and ephemeral falsehoods, to traduce the characters of the propagators of such principles, we should only exhibit our own imbecility to every honorable man, and evince a want of confidence in our own religious system of the doctrine we endeavor to support.
We believe the religion of heaven should in no case be screened from a
(page 574)
candid and scriptural investigation. The scriptures, like the great ruler of the day shed forth their rays of light to direct the footsteps of the traveller [traveler] to eternity, and to enable him to shun the dark and winding ways of error and superstition until the day-star arise in his heart. They should be the test by which all religious matters should be tried, and the great regulator of our faith.
Rumor with her ten thousand poisonous tougues [tongues], though ever busy, should never be a criterian [criterion] by which we should justify or condemn any man or set of men. The Jews condemned Christ and his apostles from evil reports, and came to a conclusion that they were the worst of deceivers: and why did they come to such a conclusion? because they were bigots and refused to hear but one side of the question. In this respect we as a people have reason to complain of our cotemporaries [contemporaries]. Not that we think prejudice against us under present circumstances, is easily to be avoided; neither was it in the days of Christ, and his apostles: for there were more men in number to testify against them, than there was for them; but as they were judged rashly, so have we been; and the result has been that we have suffered much from the barbarous hand of persecution. No sooner had a few men, whose pecuniary means were small, (but who previously bore the character of respectable citizens) bore testimony of the truths we have embraced, than the people began to rage, and the cry of "delusion," "fanaticism," "false prophets," and "Mormonism," was heard from one end of our country to the other, and many have joined in the uproar who have scarcely heard the first sylable [syllable] on the part of the defensive-Editors have paraded before the public all kinds of tales and vulgar reports that men in their imaginations could invent concerning us, (a society of whose real principles most of them know nothing of, but from hearsay,) to decoy the public mind from the field of candid investigation, and like the Ephesians, to raise a tremendous uproar, and thus drown the voice of the innocent,-the vioce [voice] of defence [defense],-the voice of TRUTH!-this being the most effectual way to impede the progress of the work; but scripture and common sense are set aside as though they were useless. We court investigation; but we will never descend to traduce character in order to oppose doctrine; neither will we condemn from the hearing of one side of the question only: "A fool judgeth a matter before he heareth it."-Solomon. "Doth our law judge a man before it heareth him."-Nicodemus.
It is reported that Joseph Smith, who was the first in reformation or the commencement of this work which we have espoused, is of notorious bad character before he experienced religion was equally good with any other respectable citizen of the state of New York; since that time, if reports are to be credited, (which by the by we avowedly denounce as falsehoods,) he has become a very bad man. The Apostle Paul sustained a good character among the Jews, till be became a christian, then let his accusers tell the story, he became one of the worst men that was ever on the earth;-so notoriously bad that they brought an accusation against him for sedition or treason.
When we consider that religionists and non-professors anciently spoke all manner of evil falsely against Christ and the Apostles, we are not astonished that editors, priests, and people, should publish all manner of evil falsely against Mr. Smith, and others of the society, seeing that they have adopted the same faith, contended for the same spiritual blessings, and practiced the ordinances that primitive saints did.
It has been stated in public journals that we hold all things in common, or that we have a community of goods, also of wives. These charges we positively deny: for we hold to no such things nor never did; neither do those who become members of the society give up their property to the leading men of it. We raise money by subscription for the purpose of erecting public places for worship, and the support of the poor. The rules of the church forbid any thing like unvirtuous conduct, and they are rigorously enforced, when there is any occasion whatever for it. It has been said, that the whole society are a set of seditious persons, not willing to conform to the laws of the country. This is also false, for we highly esteem the laws of our country, and we chalenge [challenge] the world to prove by affidavit, or by other creditable testimony, that the society as a body, have ever been, for the first time, insubordinate.
(page 575)
There have been unruly members, but for the want of penitence they were excluded from the church. The same may be said of all the Orthodox societies.
It has also been stated as a fact, that we have unlawfully taken possession of a large tract of land in Iowa, and claimed a title direct from heaven. This is equally false with the other charges before mentioned; for it is but a short time since, Dr. I. Galland, who sold most of the above mentioned land to individuals of the society, published an article in one of the Philadelphia papers, contradicting the report , stating that he had in his possession the obligations of the purchasers, which he could show, and Mr. Snow hereby states that he wrote most of the deed for said land, in June, 1839. Indeed, such reports are only got up to excite prejudice and indignation against us.
Some man who was somewhat fruitful in imagination, has written a letter to some New England editor, stating that the Mormons, so called, were making preparations to make war with their neighbors, &c. Now this is the foolish imagination of some anonymous letter writer, who did not really know the difference between a meeting-house and a fort. Some of the society are obliged to do military service, and all the military operations, or organizations, that we know of in Illinois, where the leading men of the society reside, are done by the authority and according to the laws of the State. If this is preparation for war, then all the State of Illinois are preparing for war.
Another scurrilous tale has been paraded before the public, saying that we discard the sacred Scriptures, viz: the Old and New Testaments. Such a report is awfully absurd. Indeed, we esteem them as highly as any other men, so much so, that we consider the New Testament supersedes the necessity of all creeds, liturgies, and books of divinity that men ever have or can invent.
Some pretend to say, that we preach another gospel. This is a misrepresentation, for we believe that no other gospel but that which Paul preached, is the power of God unto salvation, who says: "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."
Again, some of our opponents have the audacity to assert that the position we take encourages immorality. This is also a wanton implication without the least shadow of truth. Hear our lectures, and read our books, and then judge.
We might seperately [separately] speak of several other tales that are afloat, and occasionally drift into the mouths of the retailers of slander, which are ridiculous and absurd, such as the new-bible story, money diging [digging] story, walking on the water story, the Spaulding romance story, the murder of Martin Harris by Joseph Smith, who by the by, is still living and a member of the society, and knew nothing of his being murdered till he read the account of it in the newspapers, which came so well authenticated that we never have heard of his having any disposition to controvert it!! But we think that we have dwelt sufficiently long on evil reports: for should we examine each one distinctly, and refute it by a plain statement of facts, our enemies would coin new ones; for no sooner are they detected in one, than they put another in circulation. We now turn from the wickedness of men, to make mention of the righteousness of the Great God, and our faith in his precepts.
(To Be Concluded Nexy [next] No.
Minutes of a Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, held in Nauvoo, Ill, Commencing Oct. 1st, 1841.
Friday, Oct. 1st. In consequence of the inclemency of the weather, the congregation were prevented from assembling, and conference, from business.
Saturday, 2nd, A. M. The conference assembled on the meeting ground; but as the Presidency were absent laying the corner stone of the Nauvoo House, business was delayed, and the conference organised [organized] themselves in their several quorums in order. Br. B. Young opened divine service, and Br. O. Pratt closed, The conference then made choice of Br. Joseph Smith to Preside in conference, and appointed Elias Smith and Gustavus Hills as Secretaries.
P. M. Pres. Joseph Smith opened by calling on the choir to sing a Hymn-sung 18th Hymn. The President then read a letter from Br. O, Hyde giving an account of his journeys and success in
(page 576)
his mission, which was listened to with intense interest; and the conference, by vote, expressed their approbation of the style and spirit of said letter. The president then made remarks on the inclemency of the weather and the uncomfortable situation of the saints with regard to a place of worship, and a place of public entertainment.
The conference was then called upon by the President to elect a general church Clerk in place of R. B. Thompson deceased. Conference made choice of James Sloan. Br. Lyman Wight then called upon the conference to elect a President of the High Priest's quorum, in place of Don Carlos Smith, deceased. Br. George Miller was nominated and duly elected.
Br. B. Young then presented to the notice of the conference, the business commenced at a late special conference, with regard to the appointment of suitable and faithful men to the several important stations of labor in this and other countries.
Br. L. Wight then addressed the conference on the importance of order and uniformity of instruction, and, of a unanimity of effort to spread the work of the kingdom. Pres. Joseph Smith then made some corrections of doctrine in quoting a passage from 1 Cor. 12, 28 showing it to be a principle of order or gradation in rising from one office to another in the Priesthood.
Br. Hyrum Smith made remarks disapprobatory of the course pursued by some Elders, in withstanding the efforts of the presidency to gather the saints, and in enticing them to stop in places not appointed for the gathering; particularly the conduct of Elder Almon Babbitt of Kirtland. Brs. Lyman Wight and Henry Miller having travelled [traveled] in places where Br. A. Babbitt had been in his journeying eastward from his visit to Nauvoo testified that he had in many places taught doctrine contrary to the revelations of God and detrimental to the interest of the church.
Moved, seconded and carried that Elder Ammon Babbitt be disfellowshiped by the conference as an Elder till such time as he shall make satisfaction.
Closed with singing by the choir, Hymn 124-and prayer by Br. Geo. Smith.
Conference adjourned till tomorrow morning, 9, o'clock.
Sunday 3rd, A. M. Conference assembled and was called to order by President Marks, and divine service commenced by the choir singing Hymn 274, and prayer by Br. H. C. Kimball.
President Joseph Smith, by request of some of the Twelve, gave instructions on the doctrine of Baptism for the Dead; which was listened to with intense interest by the large assembly. The speaker presented "Baptism for the Dead" as the only way that men can appear as saviors on mount Zion. The proclamation of the first principles of the gospel was a means of salvation to men individually, and it was the truth, not men that saved them; but men, by actively engaging in rites of salvation substitutionally, became instrumental in bringing multitudes of their kin into the kingdom of God. He explained a difference between an angel and a ministering spirit; the one a resurrected or translated body, with its spirit, ministering to embodied spirits-the other a disembodied spirit, visiting and ministering to disembodied spirits. Jesus Christ became a minestering [ministering] spirit, while his body laying in the sepulchre [sepulcher], to the spirits in prison; to fulfil [fulfill] an important part of his mission, without which he could not have perfected his work or entered into his rest. After his resurrection, he appeared as an angel to his disciples &c. Translated bodies cannot enter into rest until they have undergone a change equivalent to death. Translated bodies are designed for future missions. The angel that appeared to John on the Isle of Patmos was a translated or resurrected body.-Jesus Christ went in body, after his resurrection, to minister to translated and resurrected bodies. There has been a chain of authority and power from Adam down to the present time. The only way to obtain truth and wisdom, is not to ask it from books, but to go to God in prayer and obtain divine teaching. It is no more incredible that God should save the dead, than that he should raise the dead. There is never a time when the spirit is too old to approach God. All are within the reach of pardoning mercy, who have not committed the unpardonable sin, which hath no forgiveness, neither in this world, nor in the world to come. There is a way to release the spirit of the dead; that is, by the power and authority of the Priesthood-by binding and loosing on earth
(page 577)
This doctrine appears glorious, inasmuch as it exhibits the greatness of divine compassion and benevolence in the extent of the plan of human salvation. This glorious truth is well calculated to enlarge the understanding, and to sustain the souls under troubles, difficulties, and distresses.
For illustration the speaker presented, by supposition, the case of too [two] men, brothers, equally intelligent, learned, virtuous and lovely, walking in uprightness and in all good conscience, so far as they had been able to discern duty from the muddy stream of tradition, or from the blotted page of the book of nature. One dies, and is buried, having never heard the gospel of reconciliation, to the other the message of salvation is sent, he hears and embraces it and is made the heir of eternal life. Shall the one become a partaker of glory, and the other be consigned to hopeless perdition? Is there no chance for his escape? Sectarianism answers, "none! none!! none!!!" Such an idea is worse than atheism. The truth shall break down and dash in pieces all such bigoted Pharisaism; the rest shall be sifted, the honest in heart brought out and their priests left in the midst of their corruption. The speaker then answered the objections urged against the Latter Day Saints for not admitting the validity of sectarian baptism, and for withholding fellowship from sectarian churches. It was like putting new wine into old bottles and putting old wine into new bottles. What, new revelations in the old churches! New revelations knock out the bottom of their bottomless pit. New wine into old bottles!-the bottles burst and the wine runs out. What, Sadducees in the new church! Old wine in new leathern bottles will leak through the pores and escape; such Saddacee [Sadducee] saints mock at authority, kick out of the traces, and run to the mountains of perdition, leaving the long echo of their braying behind them.
The speaker then contrasted the charity of the sects, in denouncing all who disagree with them in opinion, and in joining in persecating [persecuting] the saints, with the faith of the saints, who believe that even such may be saved in this world and in the world to come, (murderers and apostates excepted.)
This doctrine, he said, presented in a clear light, the wisdom and mercy of God, in preparing an ordinance for the salvation of the dead, being baptised [baptized] by proxy, their names recorded in heaven, and they judged according to the deeds done in the body. This doctrine was the burden of the scriptures. Those saints who neglect it, in behalf of their deceased relatives, do it at the peril of their own salvation.
The dispensation of the fulness [fullness] of times will bring to light the things that have been revealed in all former dispensations, also other things that have not been before revealed. He shall send Elijah the prophet &c., and restore all things in Christ.
The speaker then announced, "There shall be no more baptisms for the dead, until the ordinance can be attended to in the font of the Lord's House; and the church shall not hold another general conference, until they can meet in said house. For thus saith the Lord!"
Closed by prayer by Pres. Hyrum Smith-adjourned for one hour.
P. M. Conference opened by the choir singing Hymn 105, and prayer by Br. Lyman Wight.
Br. B. Young addressed the Elders at some length, on the importance of teaching abroad the first principles of the gospel, leaving the mysteries of the kingdom to be taught among the saints.
Also, on the propriety of the Elders, many of them, remaining at home, and working on the Lord's House; and that their labors will be as acceptable to the Lord as their going abroad, and more profitable for the church-that those who go abroad must take a recommend from the proper authorities, without which they will not be fellowshiped-and that those who go and those who remain make consecrations more abundantly than heretofore.
Br. Lyman Wight, followed with remarks of a similar purport; resigning his mission of gathering means for the buildings.
Br. B. Young called upon the conference to appoint a committee to petition Congress for redress of wrongs and injuries received in Missouri.
On Motion-Elias Higbee, John Taylor, and Elias Smith, were appointed said committee.
On Motion-Elder John Taylor was appointed to present said petition at the city of Washington.
Closed by the choir singing hymn 125 and prayer by Elder John Smith.
(page 578)
Monday 4th A. M. Conference opened by the choir singing hymn 183 and prayer by Bro. Geo Smith.
Pres't. Joseph Smith made a lengthy exposition of the condition of the temporal affairs of the church, the agency of which had been committed to him at a general conference in Quincy-explaining the manner that he had discharged the duties involved in that agency, and the condition of the lands and other property of the church.
On Motion, resolved-That Elder Reuben McBride be vested with power of attorney to go, settle, and if possible close a business concern left in an uncertain condition by Elder Oliver Granger deceased.
Prayer by Bro. L. Wight-Adjourned for one hour.
P. M. Conference opened by the choir singing hymn 88 and prayer by Elder John Smith.
Bro. Lyman Wight spoke at some length on the subject introduced in the former part of the day, and on the old debts and obligations that are freqently [frequently] brought up from Kirtland and Missouri; one of which, in the form of $50 note, he held in his hand and proclaimed as his text.
On Motion, Voted viva voce unanime That the trustee in trust of church property here, be instructed not to appropriate church property to liquidate old claims that may be brought forward either form Kirtland or Missouri.
Pres H. Smith presented to the notice of conference some embarassment [embarrassment] growing out of his signing as security, a certain obligation in Kirtland in favor of Mr Eaton.
On motion, Voted that church property here shall not be appropriated to liquidate said claim.
Bro B. Young made some appropriate and weighty remarks on the importance of more liberal consecrations and more energetic efforts to forward the work of building &c. After purchasing Bro. L. Wight's text, by paying him fifty cents, he tore it in pieces and gave it to the winds, saying "go ye and do likewise." Choir sung hymn 104 and Pres't Hyrum Smith closed by prayer. Conference adjourned to meet tomorrow morning 9 o'clock.
Tuesday 5th A. M. Conference opened by the choir singing hymn 274 and prayer by Bro. O. Pratt.
Bor. Orson Pratt, by request of Pres't. Joseph Smith, presented and read to the conference a recent letter from Smith Tuttle Esq, one of the proprietors of the Hotchkiss purchase, in reference to some misunderstanding in the adjustment of their claims, and conciliatory of any hard feelings growing out of such misunderstanding.
Bro. B. Young spoke on the contents of the letter and expressed his earnest desire that that business might be speedily adjusted, and a proper title obtained by the church. Bro's L. Wight and H. Smith followed with appropriate remarks.
On motion, Voted that Pres't Joseph Smith write an answer to Mr. Hotchkiss on the subject of his claim.
On Motion-by Pres't Joseph Smith-Voted that the Twelve write an epistle to the saints abroad to use their influence and exertions to secure, by exchange, purchase, donation &c, a title to the Hotchkiss purchase.
Bro. B. Young presented an appeal from the Elder's Quorum against Elder John A. Hicks charging him with a breach of the ordinances of the city, and of the peace with falsehood and with scismatical [schismatic] conversation and behavior-signed by Dimick B. Huntington, After hearing sufficient testimony in his case.
On Motion Conference Voted that Elder John A. Hicks be cut off from the church.
Closed by the choir singing 275 hymn, prayer by B. Young. Adjourned for one hour.
P. M. Conference opened by the choir singing hymn 104, and prayer by Bro. O. Pratt.
Bro. L. Pratt read to the conference, the minutes of a special conference held in the city of Nauvoo Aug 16th 1841.
Pres't. Joseph Smith made remarks explanatory of the importance of the resolutions and votes passed at that time.
On Motien [Motion], Voted, that this conference sanction the doings of said special conference.
Bro. B. Young proposed to the congregation, that those who would take laborers on the Lord's House into their houses to board with them while thus laboring should manifest their willingness by rising
(page 579)
and giving their names,-about sixty persons arose.
Conference closed by the choir singing Hymn 284 and prayer by Bro. B. Young.
Conference adjourned sine die.
Although conference commenced under discouraging circumstances owing to the inclemency of the weather, yet a vast number of brethren and visitors from abroad were present and on Saturday and Sunday, the weather having become favorable, the congregation was immense. The graatest [greatest] unanimity prevailed; business was conducted with the most perfect harmony and good feelings; and the assembly dispersed with new confidence in the great work of the Last Days.
Joseph Smith, Pres't.
Elias Smith}
Gustavus Hills.} Clerks.
From the St. Louis Atlas.
The Mormons.
An intelligent friend, who called upon us this morning, had just returned from a visit to Nauvoo and the Mormons. He has a whole skin-showing not a single lesion of the cuticle-neither scratch nor bite, nor any other mark of tooth or nail. He believes the mormons are not anthropophad [anthropoid ?], whose heads grow beneath their shoulders but men like other men-with the exception that the folly incident to human nature, runs in one vein through them, instead of in several, as through the most of us. He believes-just as we do-that they have been grossly misunderstood and shamefully libeled, of late perhaps as much by a correspondent of the Journal of Commerce (whom the respectable editors of that paper ought to look after) as from any other source.
The present population between eight and nine thusand [thousand], and of course the largest town in Illinois. The people are very enterprizing [enterprising], industrious and thrifty. They are at least quite as honest as the rest of us in this part of the world and probably in any other. Some peculiarities they have no doubt. Their religion is a peculiar one; that is neither Bhoodism [Buddhism] nor Mahometanism nor Judaism, nor Christiany [Christianity]-but it is a faith which they say encourages no vice, nor immorality, nor departure from established laws and usages; neither polygamy, nor promiscuous intercourse, nor community of property. One peculiarity of life is observable among them, and whether traceable to their religion or to some other cause, will not, we suppose, be quarreled with very generally. Ardent spirits as a drink are not in use among them; and the sale of spirits except as a medicine is forbidden by law. Any member of the church who presumes in any place to vend spirituous liquor is first admonished: and upon persistency in his offence [offense] expelled from the church. Tobacco also, is a weed which they seem almost universally to despise. We don't know but that the Mormons ought to be extirpated for refusing to drink whisky and chew tobacco;. but we hope the question will not be decided against them hastily; nor until their judges have slept off the fumes of their own liquor and cigars.
Among the public buildings, projected and in a state of forwardness at Nauvoo, is an immense temple to be constructed of hewn stone and to have an elevation of seventy feet. Its other dimensions may be inferred from its height. A splendid hotel, one hundred feet long, built also of stone is going up,-Scores of mechanics and laborers are busy as bees about them; and as they are all influenced by a public spirit unknown to the most of our communities, they do more work and bring more to pass than people do elsewhere.
How long the mormons will hold together and exhibit their present aspect, it is not for us to say. At this moment, they present the appearance of an enterprising, industrious, sober and thrifty population-such a population indeed as, in the respects just mentioned, have no rivals east, and, we rather guess not even west of the Mississippi.
We copy the following from the Edinburgh Observer of July 16th.
In a letter from Navalcarnero, in Spain, we find the following account of a singular phenomenon, which had occurred there:-"About three o'clock in the afternoon of Saturday last, the heat began to be insupportable, and continues increasing until past four, when a horrible tempest arose, accompanied by a shower of stones, which fell with great violence. The country is now reduced to one scene of desolation; nothing is to be heard but sighs and lamentations.- This shower lasted for two hours, at the expiration of which time the country around was thickly covered, and had the appearance of being buried in snow. All
(page 580)
the vineyards and the corn crops are destroyed, and the roofs of the houses beaten in. The misery of the inhabitants is beyond description, and the prospect before them for the ensuing winter most disheartening."
The following is from the Manchester Guardian, of July 14th.
Fall Of Manna.-By a despatch from Vau, in Turkish Armenia, an authenticated statement has been received at Constantinople of a copious fall of manna from the skies. Enough was vouchsafed to cover the earth two inches deep, and to afford food for many days to the people. Specimens were forwarded with the despatch, which the porte intends to have chemically analysed [analyzed].-The following passage, translated from the Arabic in the Malta Times, seems to be connected with this subject:-"Aleppo, 3rd May.-A great famine has happened in Aleppo Malitia, and Karbat, insomuch that the people died with hunger, and sold their sons and daughters to get bread to eat. But the Almighty God rained upon them seed, and fed them withal." "Of the veracity of these words," adds the Malta Times, "extracted from an Arabic letter, we are perfectly satisfied. The seed alluded to is known in Malta, being nearly like hab or aazz, and which being kept a little while, becomes white, like semola (very fine wheaten flour).
Conference.
There will be a conference of the church at the house of Father Morley, near Lyma, commencing on Saturday Oct. 23 inst., at ten o'clock A. M. to continue the Sabbath following. Some of the Twelve will be present.
Hymeneal.
Married-On the 9th of Sept. in Pitfield Pike co. Ill, by Elder Harlow Redfield Mr. James Lord, to Miss Elizabeth Houston.
In Lima, on the 20th day of June last, by Elder Watson Cox, Mr. Amos Cox, to Miss Philena Morley.
Same time and place, Mr. Chancey Whiting to Miss Editha Ann Morley, all of the same place.
In this City, on the 3rd inst. by Elder Isaac Morley, Mr. Harvey J. Moore to Miss Clarsia J. Drolinger.
Obituary.
Died-At Springfield Ill. in the first of August, Julia S. Spencer, consort of Solon Spencer, aged 30 years and eight months. She left four children with her companion to mourn her loss. She beleived [believed] and obeyed the everlasting gospel in April 1836, and continues firm and steadfast in the faith unto the end.
At Springfield Ill. Sept. 25th, George William, an infant son of Solon and Julia S. Spencer, aged 8 months and 19 days.
In Caldwell co. Mo. on the 1st day of May, Mrs. Amelia Phearson, aged 33 years. She died firm in the faith of the everlasting gospel.
In Tazwell co, Ill, Aug. 2nd, 1841, Nancy Dobson, aged eighteen years and four months.
In Tazwell co. Ill. August 30th 1841, Catherine Franks, aged twenty years and eight months.
Poetry.
For the Times and Seasons.
By Miss E. R. Snow.
Minstrel, forgive if once again, But tell me Bard, say should my songs
My re-awaken'd lyre, Be fetter'd with restraint?
Responsive, echoes back the strain The mention of my people's wrongs
Thy friendship's tones inspire., Be called by thee, "complaint?"
For since again we've chanc'd to meet I sing of what oppresson's [oppression's] done-
Beneath the muses Bower; I've felt its griping chain;
I'd fain reciprocate thy treat, But like Altnomock's dying son,
And cherish every flower. I'm scorning to complain.
Thou highly favor'd of the muse, Foul persecution's crimson'd tread,
Thou genius of song: May vent its scathing ire,
The virtuous tints thy flowers diffuse, For when it breaks life's brittle thread,
Will radiate lustre[luster], long. It wafts the spirit higher
I know thee not:-but ye I know, But should the saints who've suffered long
Such strains, as grace thy lyre- For truth and righteousness;
Such high toned music, could not flow Sit tamely down beneath their wrongs,
Where thoughts ignoble, fire. Nor seek-nor claim redress?
(page 581)
What tho' an exile?-I rejoice- True, Nature rings-her chime delights-
No longer doom'd to roam, Her smiles are bland and free;
Since I have found in Illinois, But civil and religious rights
A lonely, peaceful home. She does not guarantee:
Here freedom waves her lofty spire- Yet there are laws by heaven ordain'd-
Here is no "iron arm' Laws, to each freeman, dear;
To crush religion's holy fire, And while those laws can be sustain'd,
"Or do the guiltless harm." My people do not fear.
But in Missouri, Freedom's cause Should vice again becloud our skies
Is ting'd with purple woe! With persecution's storm;
And there our contry's sacred laws Should not Columbia sons arise
Have been prostrated low And screen the just from harm?
And there the widow's flowing tear- And noble Minstreal wilt thou, then,
The parents sympathy, Defend thy country's laws?
And orphan's moan have strew'd the bier For truth and justice wield thy pen
Of shrouded Liberty! In Freedom's righteous cause?
I'd fain believe, unrighteous acts Ah no! that prompter, I recall
And crimes, recede a race; Lest thy warm heart should find,
But vain the effort! counter facts When shower of hatred on thee fall,
Will stare me in the face! That man has not "grown kind."
Shall stern realities give way But has not truth, a haven fair?-v
To fancy's pleasing wave? The storm thou wilt outride.
Should patriotic phantoms lay If midst the wrath of man, should dare
O'er truth's unsorrow'd grave? To stem corruption's tide.
City of Nauvoo, Aug. 2 th, 1841.
Taxes! Taxes!!
The Tax book for 1841 is now in the hands of the Collector who is ready to receive Taxes. The County Tax, which is Forty cents on each hundred Dollars of valuation, may be paid in County orders. The State Tax, which is thirty cents on each hundred dollars, can be only in State auditor's warrants, wolf scalp Certificates, or Cash.
Tax payers will please be ready for an early call of the collector, as the great number to be called on will make it difficult to call a second time. The Collector or some one authorized to receive Taxes and give Receipts, may be found at all times at the Store of Mathews & Comer in Carthage.
23-3t. J. B. Mathews, Collector H. C.
At a council of the First Presidency and of the Twelve, it was unanimously voted that John E. Page shold [should] return to Nauvoo, and he is hereby requested to do it without delay,
Joseph Smith,}
Brigham Young,} Presidents.
700,00 Eclectic School Books.
The perplexities, expense, and frequent changes in School Books, arising from the want of a useful, progressively graded series of Class Books, has been an almost universally acknowledged evil. To remedy this difficulty, was the object had in view in publishing the "Eclectic Series." The fact that more than Seven hundred thousand copies of these Class Books have been published, is regarded as evidence of their great superiority over numerous other works offered to the patronage of Educators. Their progressive character, leading the young pupil up the ladder of learning, step by step, in a gradual and pleasing manner,-their cheapness of price, and excellency of manufacture, are among their prominent commendable features. The series comprises the following, and their sale is, perhaps, unequalled [unequaled] by any other School Books in the United State. Eclectic P Price, 6 Eclectic Fourth Reader, 75
Eclectic Spelling Book, 19 Ray's Eclectic Arithmetic, 50
Eclectic First Reader, 19 Ray's Little Arithmetic, 19
Eclectic Second Reader, 25 Masons's Sacred Harp, Patent Notes,1,00
Eclectic Third Reader, 37 For sale at the Nauvoo Stationary by E. Robinson.
Nauvoo Statement.
The subscriber would respectfully announce to the citizens of this county, and vicinity, that he has just received and will keep constantly on hand, a general assortment of STATIONARY-
Such as Blank Book's of all kinds, from common pocket memorandums, to the largest and best Russian bound Day, Ledger, and Record Books. Drawing paper, assorted sizes; Fine blue and red ink; Ink stands;
Ruled and plain foolscap; Quills-Steel pens-Slates-Pencils, &c. &c.
Ruled and fancy colored Letter paper; For sale, wholesale and retail, by
Aug. 16, 1841 E. Robinson.
The Times and Seasons, is printed and published semi-monthly, by E. Robinson, Editor and Proprietor.
TERMS.-TWO DOLLARS per annum, payable in all cases in advance. Any person procuring five new subscribers, and forwarding us 10 dollars current money, shall receive one volume gratis. Letters on business must be addressed to the Publisher post paid,
(page 582)
Previous chapter Table of Contents Next chapter