Chapter III (1)

The Prophet's Efforts at Washington to Obtain Redress of Grievances for the Saints--Affidavits on Missouri Affairs.

_Saturday, November 30, 1839_.--Elders Young and George A. Smith went to Brother Isaac Haight's at Moravia.

_Sunday, December 1, 1839_.--The High Council at Nauvoo met at Oliver Granger's and voted that Hyrum Smith, George W. Harris, and Oliver Granger, be a committee to send a petition to the legislature to define new boundary lines of the city of Nauvoo, and also of Commerce, and do all other needful acts relative to those cities; that Hyrum Smith furnish the maps and plats for the alteration, and that Seymour Brunson circulate the petition for signatures.

Voted that Bishop Edward Partridge publish a piece in the _Times and Seasons_, informing the brethren in the west, that it is improper to remove from the west for the purpose of locating in Kirtland, Ohio, and that those who do thus remove, will be disfellowshiped by the council.

_The Prophet's Letter to Hyrum Smith--Reporting State of Affairs at
Washington_.

Washington City, Corner Missouri And 3rd Sts.

December 5th, 1839.

Dear Brother Hyrum, President, and to the Honorable High Council
of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints--to whom be
fellowship, love, and the peace of Almighty God extended, and the
prayer of faith forever and ever. Amen.

Your fellow laborers, Joseph Smith, Jun., Elias Higbee, and agents
as well as the servants that are sent by you, to perform one of
the most {40} arduous and responsible duties, and also to labor
in the most honorable cause that ever graced the pages of human
existence, respectfully show by these lines, that we have taken up
our cross thus far, and that we arrived in this city on the morning
of the 28th November, and spent the most of that day in looking up
a boarding house, which we succeeded in finding. We found as cheap
boarding as can be had in this city.

On Friday morning, 29th, we proceeded to the house of the
President. We found a very large and splendid palace, surrounded
with a splendid enclosure, decorated with all the fineries and
elegancies of this world. We went to the door and requested to see
the President, when we were immediately introduced into an upper
apartment, where we met the President, and were introduced into his
parlor, where we presented him with our letters of introduction.
As soon as he had read one of them, he looked upon us with a half
frown, and said, "What can I do? I can do nothing for you! If I do
anything, I shall come in contact with the whole state of Missouri."

But we were not to be intimidated; and demanded a hearing, and
constitutional rights. Before we left him he promised to reconsider
what he had said, and observed that he felt to sympathize with us,
on account of our sufferings.

We have spent the remainder of our time in hunting up the
Representatives in order to get our case brought before the House;
in giving them letters of introduction, etc., and in getting
acquainted. A meeting of the delegation of the state of Illinois
was appointed today, to consult for bringing our case before
Congress. The gentlemen from Illinois are worthy men, and have
treated us with the greatest kindness, and are ready to do all that
is in their power; but you are aware, brethren, that they with us
have all the prejudices, superstition, and bigotry of an ignorant
generation to contend with; nevertheless we believe our case will
be brought before the House, and we will leave the event with God;
He is our Judge, and the Avenger of our wrongs.

For a general thing there is but little solidity and honorable
deportment among those who are sent here to represent the people;
but a great deal of pomposity and show.

We left President Rigdon and others on the road, and received a
letter from them this day. They were, at the date of the letter, on
the 20th of November, near Washington, in Pennsylvania, expecting
to stop a day or two at his brother's on account of his ill health.
He has occasionally a chill yet, but his illness is not dangerous.
We expect him here soon.

We have already commenced forming some very honorable
acquaintances, and have thus far been prospered as much as we had
anticipated, if not more. We have had a pleasing interview with
Judge Young, who {41} proposed to furnish us with expense money.
We can draw on him for funds to publish our book, and we want you
to raise some more money for us, and deposit it in the Branch Bank
in Quincy, to be drawn to the order of Judge Young. Send us the
amount of your deposit, taking a receipt of the same. You need not
be afraid to do this. We think from the proceeds of the sale of
books, we can make it all straight. Do therefore be punctual, as
much depends upon it. We cannot accomplish the things for which
we were sent without some funds. You very well know, brethren, we
were contented to start, trusting in God, with little or nothing.
We have met with but one accident since we started. The lock of
our trunk was broken off, and Brother Lyman Wight's petition is
missing; but we trust there is a copy of it preserved; if there is,
you will please forward it immediately, with the name and affidavit
to it.

For God's sake, brethren, be wide awake, and arm us with all the
power possible, for now is the time or never. We want you should
get all the influential men you can of that section of country, of
Iowa, and of every other quarter, to write letters to the members
of Congress, using their influence in our behalf, and to keep their
minds constantly upon the subject.

Please to forward this to our wives.

Yours in the bonds of the Everlasting Covenant,

Joseph Smith, Jun.,

Elias Higbee.

P. S.--Congress has been in session for four days, and the House
of Representatives is not yet organized, in consequence of some
seats being contested in the New Jersey delegation. They have this
day succeeded in electing John Q. Adams to the chair _pro tem_.;
but whether they will get their Speaker and Clerk chosen is yet
unknown, as there is a great deal of wind blown off on the occasion
on each day. There is such an itching disposition to display their
oratory on the most trivial occasions, and so much etiquette,
bowing and scraping, twisting and turning, to make a display of
their witticism, that it seems to us rather a display of folly and
show, more than substance and gravity, such as becomes a great
nation like ours. (However there are some exceptions).

A warm feeling has been manifested in the discussion of the House
today, and it seems as much confusion as though the nation had
already began to be vexed. We came with one of the Missouri members
from Wheeling to this place, who was drunk but once, and that
however was most of the time; there was but one day but what he
could navigate, and that day he was keeled over, so he could eat no
dinner. The horses ran away with the stage; they ran about three
miles; {42} Brother Joseph climbed out of the stage, got the lines,
and stopped the horses, and also saved the life of a lady and
child. He was highly commended by the whole company for his great
exertions and presence of mind through the whole affair. Elias
Higbee jumped out of the stage at a favorable moment, just before
they stopped, with a view to assist in stopping them, and was but
slightly injured. We were not known to the state company until
after our arrival.

In our interview with the President, he interrogated us wherein
we differed in our religion from the other religions of the day.
Brother Joseph said we differed in mode of baptism, and the gift of
the Holy Ghost by the laying on of hands. We considered that all
other considerations were contained in the gift of the Holy Ghost,
and we deemed it unnecessary to make many words in preaching the
Gospel to him. Suffice it to say he has got our testimony. We watch
the post office, but have received no letters from our sections of
the country. Write instantly.

Yours with respect,

J. S. Jun.,

E. H.

[Sidenote: Affairs in Iowa.]

_Tuesday, 3_.--High Council of Iowa met at Elijah Fordham's and voted to come up to the law of tithing, so far as circumstances would permit, for the benefit of the poor, and that Alanson Ripley remove to Iowa; and he was ordained Bishop by the Presidency of the Council.

Elder Daniel Avery was instructed to call the Elders together and organize the Elder's Quorum.

_Saturday, 7_.--The President of the High Council of Iowa proposed the following questions--Have the brethren a right to exact the payment of debts which were due them from others, and were consecrated to the Bishop in the state of Missouri? Six counselors spoke. The President decided that all such debts ought not to be called for, and that persons making such demands shall be disfellowshiped by the Church; which was approved by the Council. Also that all those who sold goods in Missouri, and were calling for their pay, should be considered as acting in unrighteousness, and ought to be disfellowshiped; {43} as the property of the Saints had been confiscated by Missouri.

_Letter of the Prophet and Elias Higbee to the High Council at
Nauvoo--Preliminary Hearing of Grievances_.

Washington City, Corner Of Missouri And 3rd Sts.,

December 7th, 1839.

_To Seymour Brunson and the Honorable High Council of the Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints_:

Your humble servants, Joseph Smith, Jun., and Elias Higbee, again
address you for the purpose of informing you of our proceedings
here in relation to our business and prospects of success. We deem
it unimportant to say anything in relation to our journey, arrival,
and interview with his Excellency, the President of these United
States; as they were mentioned in a letter lately addressed to
President Hyrum Smith and the High Council. We mentioned in that
letter the appointment of a meeting to be held by the Illinois
delegation, to consult upon the best measures of getting our
business brought before Congress. They met yesterday in one of the
committee rooms of the Capitol. All the delegation were present
except ex-Governor Reynolds--who is now one of the Representatives
in Congress--and on account of whose absence, the meeting was
adjourned until today at eleven o'clock; however the subject was
partially introduced, and Mr. Robinson took a stand against us,
so far as concerned our presenting claims to be liquidated by the
United States.

We took a stand against him, asserting our constitutional rights.
Brother Joseph maintained the ground in argument against him firmly
and respectfully, setting forth the injuries that we have received,
and the appeals that we have made to the judiciary of Missouri,
and also the governor; their refusals from time to time to do
us justice; also the impracticability of doing anything in the
judiciary courts of Missouri--which tribunal Mr. Robinson thought
was the only proper place for our claims; but he finally said it
was his first impression on the subject, not having considered the
matter, but would take it into further consideration.

Judge Young of the Senate made some remarks in our favor, saying
he would get the opinion of some of the prominent members of
the Senate, who were also lawyers, and would report to us the
next meeting. We met this day according to appointment, and very
friendly feelings were manifested on the occasion. Our business was
taken up, and {44} Judge Young stated that he had asked the opinion
of Judge White of Tennessee, of Mr. Wright, and several other
members whose names we do not recollect, but were prominent members
of the Senate. They all declined giving an opinion at present, as
it was a matter that they had not considered sufficiently to decide
upon at this time. The meeting, then, after some deliberations,
decided in our favor, which decision was that a Memorial and
Petition be drawn up in a concise manner, (our Representatives
promising so to do), and Judge Young present them to the Senate,
that they might thereby refer it to the proper committee, with all
the accompanying documents, and order the same to be printed.

We want you to assist us now; and also to forward us your
certificates, that you hold for your lands in Missouri: your claims
to preemption rights, and affidavits to prove that soldiers were
quartered on us and in our houses without our consent, or any
special act of law for that purpose; contrary to the Constitution
of the United States. We think Brother Ripley and others will
recollect the circumstances and facts relative to this matter. You
will also recollect the circumstances of Brother Joseph and others
being refused the privilege of _habeas corpus_ by the authorities
of Missouri.

These facts must be authenticated by affidavits. Let any particular
transaction of the outrages in Missouri that can be sworn to by the
sufferers, or those who were eye-witnesses to the facts, be sent,
specifying the particulars. Have the evidence _bona fide_ to the
point.

The House of Representatives is not organized. Much feeling and
confusion have prevailed in the House for a few days past. The
House succeeded in electing John Q. Adams chairman _pro tem_.
on the 5th instant. They have not yet elected their Speaker or
Clerk. The Senate can do nothing of consequence until the House
is organized; neither can the President's message until then be
received. We design taking a paper and forwarding it to you.

Your brethren in the bonds of the everlasting covenant,

Joseph Smith, Jun.,

Elias Higbee.

[Sidenote: Brigham Young in New York.]

Brother Isaac Haight took Elders Young and George A. Smith to Brother Joseph Murdock's, Hamilton, Madison county, New York, where Elder Young preached on Sunday, 8th, and spent the week in preaching, and visiting the brethren. Elder George A. Smith was confined to his room, sick.

This day, the High Council of Nauvoo issued an Epistle {45} to the Saints west of Kirtland not to return thither. (See _Times and Seasons_, page 29). [1]

Elders Hiram Clark, Alexander Wright, and Samuel Mulliner arrived in Preston from America. Their licenses were mislaid on their journey, and they had some difficulty in making themselves known.

{46} Some time this month, Brother Hyrum Smith wrote a long Epistle "To the Saints scattered abroad, Greeting," setting forth his sufferings, etc., in the State of Missouri, and published the same in the _Times and Seasons_, on page 20 and onward. [2]

_Sunday, 15_.--President Young preached at Brother Gifford's, in Waterville.

The High Council at Nauvoo voted that Bishop Knight provide for the families of Joseph Smith, Jun., Sidney Rigdon, and Orrin Porter Rockwell, during their absence at Washington.

Elder James Mulholland, my scribe, having died, it was voted that debts contracted for building his house be settled. Also approved of Brothers Annis, Bozier, and Edmunds building a water mill adjoining the city.

_Monday 16_.--President Young returned to Hamilton.

_Wednesday, 18_.--Elders Woodruff, John Taylor, and Theodore Turley sailed from New York for England.

_Friday, 20_.--President Young went to Eaton, to see his cousins Fitch, Salmon, and Phinehas Brigham.

{47} For particulars of our proceedings while at Washington, see my letters and Judge Higbee's to friends at Commerce, or Nauvoo, as the place is now frequently called.

_Saturday, 21_.--I arrived in Philadelphia, direct from Washington City, by the railroad, where I spent several days preaching and visiting from house to house, among the brethren and others.

_Letter of Hyrum Smith to Parley P. Pratt--On Printing the Book of
Mormon in New York_.

Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois,

December 22nd, 1839.

Dear Brother Parley:--In consequence of the absence of my brother
Joseph, your letter has come into my hands, to which I intend to
reply, and give such instructions, and advise you respecting the
matters and things of which you write, as I feel led by the Spirit
of the Lord [to give].

I was truly glad to hear of the prosperity of the churches in and
about the vicinity of New York. Truly these things are pleasing
to the Saints, and I presume to none more so than yourself, who
was the instrument in the hands of God in planting the standard of
truth in those regions, around which so many are now rallying.

You express a desire to have the Book of Mormon, etc., printed
in New York, etc., etc., and have taken some steps towards
accomplishing that object. As respects this matter I would say,
that it is one of great importance, and should be properly
considered. Not only is the city of New York destitute of this
book, but there is truly a famine throughout the Union, and another
large edition is certainly required. But at the same time I cannot
give any encouragement for the publication of the same, other
than at this place, or where it can come out under the immediate
inspection of Joseph and his Counselors, so that no one may be
chargeable with any mistakes that may occur. I want the books we
print here should be a standard to all nations in which they may be
printed, and to all tongues into which the same may be translated.

Again, as this place is appointed a Stake and a place of gathering
for the Saints, I think that every facility should be rendered it,
in order that the Saints may be able to accomplish the great works
which have to be performed in this generation. I should therefore
strongly advise, yea, urge you and all the Elders of Israel, when
they meet with those who have means, and a disposition to forward
this work, to send them to this place, where they may receive
counsel from time to time.

If when Brothers Joseph and Rigdon return, we should deem it
{48} prudent to avail ourselves of the facilities offered in New
York for re-printing the Book of Mormon, it is probable that a
delegation will be sent to accomplish that object. In the meantime
you will be at liberty to go to Europe, for thereunto are you sent.

The above observations will apply to the book of Doctrine and
Covenants, Hymn Book, etc., which publications I long to see
flowing through the land like a stream, imparting knowledge,
intelligence, and joy to all who shall drink at the stream. As to
publishing the Book of Mormon in Europe and other nations, I should
entirely acquiesce to your proposition. I do not know of any more
suitable persons for attending to that business than the Twelve. If
it should be deemed wisdom to have the same published in England
or elsewhere soon, you will be further advised on the subject, and
full powers given you immediately on the return of Joseph, who
is at present in the city of Washington, in company with Elder
Rigdon and Judge Higbee, endeavoring to get the subject of our late
persecutions brought before the councils of the nation.

The families of the Twelve are generally well, but not altogether
so comfortably situated as I could wish, owing to the poverty of
the Church. I think it would be well for those who have means to
spare, to forward the same to their families.

My love to all the brethren. I am your affectionate brother in the
bonds of the covenant,

Hyrum Smith.

Addressed to Elder P. P. Pratt, New York City.

_Monday, 23_.--President Young went to Waterville with Brother Gifford. About this time Brothers Rockwell and Higbee arrived at Philadelphia with my carriage from Washington, where they had been some time, leaving Elder Rigdon there sick, and Dr. Robert E. Foster to take care of him.

_Wednesday, 25_.--Elders Wright and Mulliner left Preston for Scotland, and soon commenced preaching and baptising in Paisley and vicinity.

President Young went six miles north of Rome [New York] to see Brother Blakesly; returned on the 27th to Waterville, and on the 28th went to Hamilton.

_Saturday, 28_.--Heber John, son of Willard and Jennetta Richards, died at Preston, England, aged five months and nine days. He had been sick nine days with the smallpox, and was buried in Elswick Chapel yard.

{49} _Sunday, 29_.--The High Council of Nauvoo voted to print ten thousand copies of the hymn-books, and an edition of the Book of Mormon, under the inspection of the First Presidency at Nauvoo, so soon as means can be obtained.

[Sidenote: The Prophet in New Jersey.]

_Monday, 30_.--About this time I left Philadelphia with Brother Orson Pratt, and visited a branch of the Church in Monmouth county, New Jersey, where I spent several days, and returned to Philadelphia.

The High Council of Nauvoo voted that a committee be appointed to transact the business relating to the request of the brethren at Washington as follows--Alanson Ripley, in Iowa; Seymour Brunson and Charles C. Rich, at Quincy; Zenas H. Gurley, at Macomb; and that President Hyrum Smith, and Bishops Edward Partridge and Vinson Knight give the committee their instructions.

_Wednesday, January 1, 1840_.--George A. Smith (who had partially recovered from his illness) and Elder Brigham Young left Hamilton. The brethren helped them on their way, and gave them considerable clothing.

_Thursday, 2_.--Brother James Gifford brought them to Utica.

As more positive and official testimony was wanted by the authorities at Washington, many of the brethren made affidavits concerning their sufferings in, and expulsion from, Missouri, a few of which I will insert in my history:

_Affidavit of Simeon Carter on his Sufferings in Missouri_.

I, Simeon Carter, certify that I have been a resident of the state
of Missouri for six years and upwards, and that I have suffered
many things by a lawless mob; both myself and my family have been
driven from place to place, and suffered the loss of much property,
and finally were expelled from the state. I further certify, that
I belong to the Church of the Latter-day Saints, commonly called
"Mormons." And I certify that in the year eighteen hundred and
thirty-eight, both I and my people suffered much, by the people of
the state of Missouri. And I further certify, that in this same
year, in the month of November, between the first and sixth, we
were surrounded by a soldiery of the state of {50} Missouri, in the
city of Far West, in Caldwell county, both myself and many of my
"Mormon" brethren, and were compelled by the soldiery--which were
armed with all the implements of war to shed blood--under a public
declaration for our entire extermination, to sign away our all,
our property, personal and real estate, and to leave the state of
Missouri immediately.

I certify that I had at that time one hundred and sixty-two acres
of land, the same which I held the certificate for. I further
certify that I was obliged to give up my duplicates to help me to a
small sum to carry me out of the state. I further certify not.

Simeon Carter.

Territory of Iowa, Lee County.

Sworn to and subscribed before me, a justice of the peace for said
county, this and day of January, 1840.

D. W. Kilbourn, J. P.

_Letter of Hyrum Smith to the Prophet and Judge Higbee_.

Nauvoo. Hancock County, Illinois,

January 3rd, 1840.

_To President Joseph Smith, Jun., and Judge Higbee_:

Dear Brethren:--It is with feelings of no ordinary kind, that I
write you at this time, in answer to the letters with which we were
favored. Your letters were truly interesting, and were read with
great interest by the brethren here, as well as myself.

We were truly glad to hear of your safe arrival in the city of
Washington, your interview with His Excellency the President, and
the steps you have since taken for the furtherance of the object
you have undertaken to accomplish, and for which you have left the
endearments of home, and the society of your friends. The mission
on which you are engaged is certainly an important one, and one
which every Saint of God, as well as everyone whose breast beats
high with those patriotic feelings which purchased our national
freedom, must take a deep interest in. And although there may be
many who do not value your labors--their sectarian prejudices
being greater than their love for truth and the Constitution of
our country; yet there are many who will undoubtedly appreciate
your services, and will feel it a pleasure to assist you all
that they possibly can. Conscious of the righteousness of your
cause--having the prayer of the Saints, (amongst whom are many who
have shared with you the trials, persecutions, and imprisonments
which have been heaped upon the Saints in Missouri), and having
the approval of heaven, I would say, go on, dear brethren, in the
name of the Lord; and while you are pleading the cause of the
widow and the fatherless, may {51} He who has promised to be a
father to the fatherless and a husband to the widow, bless you in
your undertakings, and arm you with sufficient strength for the
herculean task in which you are engaged. Your exertions will be
seconded by the brethren in this region, who are disposed to do all
they possibly can.

I had just got ready to start for Springfield when I received your
letter. I no sooner read it than I abandoned the idea of going
there. I then made exertion to obtain funds for you in this place;
but not being able to get any, and hearing that there were brethren
in Quincy lately from New York, I started off the following day
and succeeded in obtaining from Brother Herringshaw three hundred
dollars, which I deposited with Messrs. Holmes & Co., merchants
in Quincy, subject to the order of Judge Young. The reason why I
deposited it with them was in consequence of the banks not doing
any business and refusing to take deposits, etc. I hope that we
shall be able to raise you some more soon. Brother William Law has
promised to let us have one hundred dollars as soon as he gets a
remittance from the east, which he expects daily.

We have not been able to get much on the city lots since you left;
not more than enough to pay some wages for surveying, and a few
debts. Brother Lyman Wight returned the subscription paper a few
days ago, stating that he had not collected anything since you
left. In consequence of my health, which has been poor, and the
coldness of the weather, I have not been able to attend to it
myself. I hardly think we shall be able to raise the one thousand
dollars for Mr. William White by the time he will expect it. Elder
Granger is yet in Commerce, not being able to move in consequence
of the low stage of water in the Ohio river.

I received a letter lately from Parley P. Pratt, stating that he
was in the City of New York, and had published another edition of
his book, and wanted permission to print an edition of the Book of
Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants, with a periodical similar to the
_Times and Seasons_, stating that there were men who had means,
that would assist in these things. He likewise wanted to get the
privilege for the Twelve to print the Book of Mormon in Europe. I
wrote in reply, that if there were any of the brethren disposed
to aid, and had means to spare for such purposes, to send them to
this place, so that not only this place might be benefitted, but
that the books might come out under your immediate inspection. I
am afraid some have been induced to tarry and assist Parley in
these undertakings; and had made arrangements with Elder Granger to
assist in liquidating the New York debts.

I want a letter from you, Brother Joseph, as soon as possible,
giving me all the instructions you think necessary. I feel the
burden in your absence is great. Father expresses a great desire to
go to Kirtland, {52} along with Brother Granger, who has promised
to pay his and mother's expenses; would you think it advisable for
them to go or not?

The High Council met a few days ago, and took your second letter
into consideration, and passed some resolutions on the subject;
appointed committees to get certificates for land, and to get
all other information they could. Some have gone to Quincy, and
others to different places. We shall forward from time to time the
information you desire.

You will receive enclosed in this a number of duplicates for land
from Bishop Partridge and others. The Mississippi is frozen up.
The weather is very cold, and a great quantity of snow is on the
ground, and has been for some time. Your family is in tolerable
good health, excepting one or two having the chills occasionally.

Bishop Knight desires me to inform you, that Brothers Granger and
Haws have driven into Commerce a large number of hogs. They are now
engaged in slaughtering them. I think there will be a good deal of
trade carried on in this line another year.

You may expect to hear from us soon again. I sent you a copy of the
deposit I made in Holmes & Co., which I hope you will receive safe.

I am very affectionately,

Hyrum Smith.

P. S.--We have concluded not to send any duplicates in this letter.
The packages of duplicates will be directed to Judge Higbee,
thinking they will come more safe to his address.

_Friday, 3_.--Elders Brigham Young and George A. Smith went from Utica to Albany, on the railway, and put up at the Railroad House.

_Affidavit of William F. Cahoon--Missouri Wrongs_.

I hereby certify that in the year 1838 I was residing in Daviess
county, Missouri, and while from home I was taken prisoner in Far
West by the militia, and kept under guard for six or eight days, in
which time I was forced to sign a deed of trust, after which I was
permitted to return home to my family in Daviess county, and found
them surrounded by an armed force, with the rest of my neighbors,
who were much frightened. The order from the militia was to leave
the county within ten days, in which time my house was broken open,
and many goods taken out by the militia. We were not permitted to
go from place to place without a pass from the general, and on
leaving the county, I received a pass as follows:

"I permit William F. Cahoon to pass from Daviess to Caldwell
county, {53} and there remain during the winter, and thence to pass
out of the state of Missouri.

"Signed November 10th, 1838.

"Reeves, a Brigadier-General."

During this time both myself and my family suffered much on account
of cold and hunger because we were not permitted to go outside of
the guard to obtain wood and provision; and according to orders of
the militia, in the spring following, I took my family and left the
state with the loss of much property.

William F. Cahoon.

Territory of Iowa, Lee county, subscribed and sworn before

D. W. Kilbourn, J. P.

_Letter of C. Adams to the Prophet--Cause of the Saints before the
Illinois Legislature_.

Springfield, 4th January, 1840.

Respected Sir.--I had the gratification of the receipt of yours of
the 16th of December, which gave me pleasure to learn that your
prospects were, at that early period, in a measure flattering.
I also saw yours of the 19th December to Mr. Weber. We are now
consulting and feeling the pulsations relative to your case being
brought before the legislature, now in session, by a series
of resolutions, instructing our senators, and requesting our
representatives to urge relief in your case.

What will be done, remains yet uncertain; still it is my strongest
impression, it will be found prudent to get the matter before our
legislature, for their action thereon. I am happy to learn that all
our delegation are friendly to your intended application for relief
in some shape; and it strikes me that the views of the President at
this period may be the best, and perhaps the only way that relief
could at this time be obtained; and in that event, be no injury
to a future application to be restored to all your rights, when
prejudice shall in a measure have subsided and the true state of
the matter be more readily received, even by those whose prejudices
may have closed the avenues to reason and justice in a matter
identified with the odium so commonly attached to the sound of
"Mormons." This odium will naturally wear off when they have time
to learn that "Mormons" are neither anthropophagi or cannibals.

Your friends are generally well.

I am, etc.,

C. Adams.

To Joseph Smith, Jun.

[Sidenote: Law Suits to be Abandoned]

{54} _Saturday, 4_.--The High Council at Montrose voted to utterly discard the practice of suing brethren at the law, and that such as do it, shall be disfellowshiped by this branch of the Church; that Abraham O. Smoot ordain Daniel Avery President of the Elders' Quorum; and that the sixth instant be devoted to taking affidavits concerning Missouri.

Elder Young found the brethren in Albany; went to Troy, and Lansingburg, where he heard Elder Phinehas Richards preach.

_Sunday, 5_.--Elder Young preached at Lansingburg, and returned to Troy and held a meeting with the brethren.

_Monday, 6_.--Elder Young returned to Albany.

_Extract from Elder Orson Pratt's Letter to his wife--Reporting
Movements of the Brethren in the Eastern States_.

January 6th, 1840.

I am well and hearty. After mailing the last letter to you in
Pennsylvania, I went to Philadelphia on Saturday, the 21st of
December; there I found President Joseph Smith, Jun.; he had just
arrived from Washington City, where he had been about three weeks.
Four or five days after, Judge Higbee, with Porter Rockwell, came
to Philadelphia; they are well. I wrote to Parley P. Pratt to
come and see President Smith; he did so, and probably will go to
Washington with him in a few days. I stayed with Brother Smith, in
Philadelphia, about eight days; we then took the railroad and went
some 35 or 40 miles, to a large branch of the Church in Monmouth
county, New Jersey, which numbers ninety members; there I left him
[President Smith] on New Year's day, and came to New York, where I
am at present.

Elder Benjamin Winchester had, when I left Philadelphia, baptized
forty-five in that city, and several more had given in their names
for baptism, and scores believing. I preached in Chester county,
Pennsylvania, 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, December
18th, while I was in Pennsylvania. None of the rest of the Twelve
have yet arrived. Parley P. Pratt has another book printed, larger
than the Voice of Warning, entitled "The Millennium and other
Poems," and a piece on the "Eternal Duration of Matter." [3]

{55} _Letter from John B. Weber to the Prophet--On Supplementing
the Latter's Effort to Obtain Redreses from Congress_.

Springfield, January 6, 1840.

Gentlemen:--Your letter of the 19th ult. came to hand ten days
after date, immediately after which I called upon many of the
prominent members of the Democratic party, with a view to unite
them in their influence in your behalf; all of whom expressed a
willingness to aid in bringing about justice. But I regret to
inform you that but few have exhibited that energy in the matter
which might reasonably be expected from all lovers of liberty and
advocates of equal rights.

Your energetic friends were first of the opinion that an
effort ought to be made by our legislature to memorialize our
representatives in {56} Congress, to use all honorable means to
accomplish your desires; but after holding a consultation it was
believed that such a course would create a party strife here, and
consequently operate against you in Congress. Therefore it was
agreed that as many as had friends in Congress should write to them
immediately, desiring their aid in your behalf.

If convenient you will please write again. Any information
respecting your mission will be thankfully received, and made known
to your people here.

Very respectfully yours,

John B. Weber.

To the Rev. Joseph Smith and his Associates.

_Affidavit of John M. Burk--Missouri Outrages_.

I hereby certify that General John Clark and his Aid, on their
arrival at Far West in Caldwell county, Missouri, came to my tavern
stand, and without my leave, pitched their marquees in my yard and
did take my wood and hay to furnish the same, and did bring their
horses in also, and without my leave, took hay for them, and did
take possession of my house, and used it for a council house, and
did place a strong guard around it, so as to hinder any person from
going in or out, and I myself was not permitted to go in and out;
for all this I have received no remuneration, and was not even
permitted to pass out of town to water travelers' horses without a
permit. The above took place in the first part of November, 1838.

I also certify that Caleb Baldwin, Lyman Wight, Hyrum Smith, Joseph
Smith, Jun., and Mr. Alexander McRae, in Clay county, Missouri, did
apply for a writ of _habeas corpus_ and did not get it.

John M. Burk.

Sworn before D. W. Kilbourn, J. P.

_Affidavit of John Lowry--Ditto_.

I certify that I saw General John Clark and his Aid, on their
arrival at Far West, Caldwell county, Missouri, in the yard of John
M. Burk, and gave orders to their waiters to pitch their marquees
in his yard, and to take of his wood for fire.

I also saw Captain Samuel Bogart, with his men, come near my
dwelling, and did pitch their camp, and took my house logs without
my leave, and did burn them. I also saw him with the horse of
Joseph Smith, Jun., in his possession.

John Lowry.

Sworn before D. W. Kilbourn, J. P.

_Affidavit of Jedediah Owen--Ditto_.

To whom it may concern--This is to certify, that on the day
following {57} on which the troops arrived at Far West, that two
men of said troops came to my house, broke open my trunk, and took
therefrom both money and clothing, and also a number of papers,
among which were deeds and notes, and also a number of cooking
utensils, and in consequence of the cruel and inhuman treatment
which I and others have received from those troops, we are reduced
to a state of almost absolute starvation; and Daniel Avery and
myself were appointed as a committee to go out and beg corn and
meal, or anything we might obtain, that would render assistance or
relieve us in our suffering condition.

Jedediah Owen.

Sworn before D. W. Kilbourn, J. P.

_Affidavit of T. Alvord--Ditto_.

I removed my family from the state of Michigan to Clay county,
Missouri, in the year 1835, where I lived in peace with the people,
on my own land, eighteen months or more, when the people began to
be excited in consequence of the emigration of our people to that
county. The excitement became so great that I was obliged to sell
my place at half price, and removed to the county of Caldwell,
where I purchased me a farm, and settled my family, and made a good
improvement, and was in a good situation to support my family,
and there lived in peace with the people until the summer and
fall of 1838, when the mob began to rise, and we were obliged to
fly to arms in self defense; but notwithstanding our exertion,
they murdered and massacred many of our people. We applied to the
governor for assistance, and his reply to us was, "If you have got
into a scrape with the mob, you must fight it out yourselves, for
I cannot help you." The mob still increased, until I was obliged
to remove my family to Far West, and there remained, surrounded
with mobs of murderers, until General Clark arrived with his army,
with the governor's exterminating order. Then we were all taken
prisoners; our arms taken away; they then treated with all the
cruelty they were masters of, and took possession of whatever they
pleased, burnt timber, and laid waste town and country.

I heard General Clark say that he would execute the Governor's
order; "but [said he] notwithstanding, I will vary so much as to
give some lenity for the removal of this people, and you must leave
the state immediately, for you need not expect to raise another
crop here." Those who were not taken to prison, were permitted to
return to their homes to make preparations to leave the state.
Finding I had no safety for myself and family in Missouri, I fled
to Illinois for safety.

T. Alvord.

Sworn to before D. W. Kilbourn, J. P.

{58} _Tuesday, January 7_.--Elder Young took stage for Richmond, Massachusetts.

_Affidavit of William Hawk--Missouri Affairs_.

Montrose, Lee County, Iowa, January 7, 1840.

I hereby certify, that some time in the month of October, 1838, an
armed force collected in the county of Carroll, near De Witt, and
in open daylight, drove a man by the name of Humphrey out of his
house, and set fire to it, and burnt it to ashes, and then sent
an express ordering all the "Mormons" to leave the place as soon
as the next day. The next day they sent another express ordering
them to leave in six hours, or they would be massacred upon the
ground. They also fired their guns at different persons traveling
the road near the town. The "Mormons" were at length compelled to
leave their possessions, and all removed to Caldwell, consisting of
seventy and perhaps one hundred families, many of whom were in want
of the sustenance of life, sick, and some died upon the way.

About two weeks after this, another armed force invaded Far West,
took my gun, and compelled me to sign away my property, both real
and personal, and leave the state forthwith.

William Hawk.

Sworn to before D. W. Kilbourn. J. P.

_Affidavit of Timothy B. Clark--Ditto_.

Montrose, Lee County, Iowa Territory, January 7, 1840.

This is to certify that I was at work on my farm on the last of
October, 1838, when an armed company under General Lucas, came and
took myself and my three sons prisoners, and threw down my fences,
and opened my gates, and left them open, and left my crops to be
destroyed, and while I was a prisoner, they declared that they had
made clean work in destroying the crops as they passed through the
country, and they took from me two yoke of oxen, and three horses
and two wagons, and compelled me and my sons to drive them loaded
with produce of my own farm, to supply their army.

I had in possession at the time, four hundred and eighty acres of
land, and rising of a hundred acres improved, with a small orchard
and nursery, the necessary buildings of a farm, etc.; and in
consequence of my imprisonment my fences remained down, and most of
my crops were destroyed; and further this deponent saith not.

Timothy B. Clark.

Sworn to before D. W. Kilbourn, J. P.

_Affidavit of Urban V. Stewart--Ditto_.

Montrose, Lee County, Iowa Territory, January 7, 1840.

This is to certify that about the middle of October, I was driven,
by {59} the threats of the Daviess county armed force, to leave my
possessions, consisting of preemption right to a quarter section
of land with thirty acres under improvement, and a good house. I
went to Di-Ahman and remained until about the 1st of November, when
I was driven from there by an armed force under General Wilson. I
then went to Far West. While at Ondi-Ahman the armed force took
from me one cow and calf, and a yoke of oxen, one horse and five
sheep; they also took from me fifteen hogs. While at Far West, they
took two cows belonging to me, and I saw the soldiery killing the
live stock of the inhabitants without leave or remuneration, and
burning building timbers, fences, etc.

Urban V. Stewart.

Sworn to before D. W. Kilbourn, J. P.

_Affidavit of John Smith--Ditto_.

Lee County, Iowa Territory.

This day personally appeared before me, D. W. Kilbourn, an
acting Justice of the Peace in and for said county, John Smith,
and after having been duly sworn, desposeth and saith, "That in
the months of October and November, 1838, I resided in the town
of Adam-ondi-Ahman. Daviess county, Missouri, and whilst being
peaceably engaged in the ordinary vocations of life, that in the
early part of November my house was entered by a body of armed
men painted after the manner or customs of the Indians of North
America, and proceeded to search my house for fire arms, stating
that they understood the Mormons knew how to hide their guns, and
in their search of a bed in which lay an aged, sick female, they
threw [her] to and fro in a very rough manner, without regard to
humanity or decency. Finding no arms, they went off without further
violence.

"Shortly after this above described outrage, there was a number
of armed men, say about twenty, rode into my yard and inquired
for horses which they said they had lost, and stated, under
confirmation of an oath, that they would have the heads of twenty
'Mormons,' if they did not find their horses. These last were
painted in like manner as the first. These transactions took place
when the citizens of the village and its vicinity were engaged in a
peaceable manner in the ordinary pursuits of life."

This deponent further saith, "That the mob took possession of a
store of dry goods belonging to the Church of Latter-day Saints,
over which they placed a guard. I went into the store to get some
articles to distribute to the suffering poor, and the officer
who had the charge of the store ordered me out peremptorily,
stating it was too cold to wait on me, that I must come the next
morning; and returning the next morning, I found the store almost
entirely stripped of its contents. {60} Thereupon we as a Church
were ordered to depart the county and state, under the pains and
penalty of death or a total extermination of our society. Having no
alternative, (having my wagon stolen), I was compelled to abandon
my property, except a few movables which I got off with in the best
way that I could, and on receiving a permit or pass which is hereto
appended. I then proceeded to depart the state.

"'I permit John Smith to remove from Daviess to Caldwell county,
there remain during the winter, or remove out of the state
unmolested.

"'Daviess county, November 9th, 1838.

"R. Wilson, Brigadier-General. By F. G. Cochnu.'

"I accordingly left the state in the month of February following in
a destitute condition."

John Smith.

Sworn to before D. W. Kilbourn, J. P.

_Affidavit of Samuel Smith--Ditto_.

Montrose, Lee County, Iowa, January 7, 1840.

I do hereby certify, that I, Samuel Smith, made an improvement
and obtained a preemption right upon one hundred and sixty acres
of land in Daviess county, Missouri, in 1837. On the first of
November, 1838, I was compelled to leave the county, by order of
General Wilson, in ten days. They took without my consent, two
horses, which have never been returned, nor remunerated for; also
destroyed my crop of corn, drove off four head of cattle.

Samuel Smith.

Sworn to before D. W. Kilbourn, J. P.

_Affidavit of Daniel Avery--Ditto_.

Lee County, Iowa Territory, March 5th, 1840. [4]

I, Daniel Avery, do hereby certify that the following
scenes transpired in the state of Missouri to my personal
knowledge--First, in the year 1838, some time in the fall, I was
called on by the martial law of the state of Missouri, to aid and
assist to rescue women and children from the hands of a mob, from
the waters of Grand river, whose husbands and fathers had been
driven off. We found the house invested by the mob, some of whom
were in the house threatening the lives of the women and children,
if they did not leave their property and effects immediately and
follow their husbands and fathers. One family lost a {61} child
while in this situation, for the want of care; the women being
compelled, by these monsters, to provide and cook them food. This
company of the mob was commanded by James Weldin.

I also saw about seventy families driven from De Witt by a mob
commanded by Sashiel Wood. I helped to bury one woman the first
night, who had been confined in childbed a night or two before, and
could not endure the sufferings.

The next scene I saw I was peaceably traveling the road; a man by
the name of Patrick O'Banion was shot dead at my feet. We advanced
a little further, when two men were killed and several wounded.
I afterwards learned that this gang of mobbers was commanded by
Samuel Bogart.

In consequence of being pursued out of the state, by this lawless
mob, I was not an eye witness to the many thousand wicked acts
committed by the Governor's exterminating militia.

Daniel Avery.

Sworn to before D. W. Kilbourn, J. P.

_Wednesday, March 11_.

_Affidavit of James Powell--Ditto_.

Illinois, Adams County, March 11, 1840.

I, James Powell, do certify, that I was a citizen of the state of
Missouri in 1838. I solemnly declare that while I was peaceably
traveling to one of my nearest neighbors, I was assaulted by a
company of men, to the number of five--Autherston Wrathey, John
Gardner, Philomen Ellis, Jesse Clark, and Ariel Sanders. First they
threw a stone and hit me between the shoulders, which very much
disabled me; they then shot at me, but did not hit me. One of them
then struck me with his gun, and broke my skull about six inches--a
part of my brain ran out. I have had fourteen pieces of bone taken
out of my skull. My system is so reduced that I have not done a
day's work since.

I know no reason why they should have done [this act], as I did not
belong to the Mormon Church, neither had I ever heard one preach.
In this situation I was forced to leave the state forthwith. I was
carried three days without having my head dressed. When I arrived
at Huntsville, Doctor Head offered me assistance. I refer to him
for further testimony.

James Powell.

Attest, John Smith.

We certify that the foregoing affidavit of James Powell's is true
and correct, as we stood by and saw it with our eyes. We also heard
them {62} say they would kill the Mormons, if they did not clear
out. We carried the wounded man in our wagon, till he was out of
reach of the mob.

Peter Wimmer,

Susan Wimmer,

Ellen Wimmer.

Sworn to before William Oglesby, J. P.

_Affidavit of John Smith--Ditto_.

Illinois, Columbus, Adams County, March 11, 1840.

I, John Smith, certify that I was a resident in the state
of Missouri in 1838, when I was driven from my house, and a
pre-emption right, and forbid to stay in the state, [the mob]
threatening me if I did not go forthwith. I took my family and
pursued my journey one hundred miles. In consequence of cold, snow,
water and ice at the inclement season in which I was driven, I fell
sick, and for four weeks I was unable to travel; during which time
I was threatened daily; yet I was so sick it was considered by many
that I could not live, and was compelled to start when I was not
able to sit up through the day. I landed in Illinois; the long and
fatiguing journey, lying out in the cold, open air, proved too much
for my companion; it threw her into a violent fever, with which she
died. Many others in the company took sick and died with the same
hard fare.

John Smith.

Sworn to before William Oglesby, J. P.

_Affidavit of Smith Humphrey--Ditto_.

Illinois, Adams County, March 16, 1840.

I, Smith Humphrey, certify that I was a citizen of Missouri in
eighteen hundred and thirty-eight; and some time in the month of
October, of the same year, I was fallen upon by a mob commanded by
Hyrum Standley. He took my goods out of my house; and said Standley
set fire to my house, and burnt it before my eyes, and ordered me
to leave the place forthwith. I removed from De Witt to Caldwell
county, where I was again assailed by Governor Bogg's exterminating
militia. They took me prisoner, and robbed my wagon of four hundred
dollars in cash, and one thousand dollars' worth of goods, and
drove me out of the state.

Smith Humphrey.

Sworn to before C. M. Woods, Clerk of Circuit Court.