Chapter IX

The Return of a Prodigal--Conditions in Kirtland--Progress of the Work in Great Britain--The Coming of John C. Bennett.

Australian Mission.

_Extract of a Letter from Elder William Barratt_.

Deptford, [1] July 15, 1840.

Dear Brother In Christ:--I write to inform you of my arrival in
the metropolis this morning, after a tedious journey in the midst
of much profaneness and swearing, such as I never heard in my
life before. I feel, as the Apostle expresses it, like a lamb
among wolves, going into a land of strangers to preach the Gospel;
therefore I desire your prayers in my behalf. I have witnessed much
of the spirit of revelation since Sunday; in fact, I only thought
it a mere thought, when the Elders testified that they were called
by revelation; but now I know the truth of the assertion, which
proves to me who ought to preach, and that none ought, without they
are called by revelation.

Give my love to all the Saints, and tell them that as many as
remain faithful I will meet in Zion, bringing my sheaves with me.
Tell them my faith is fixed, and my resolution is strong to meet
you all there, whom I love in the Lord. Pray that a door may be
opened, and that a gift of utterance may be given unto me in a
foreign land to preach the Gospel. Brethren, sorrow not for me, as
those that have no hope, for we have a hope of living and eating
together in the kingdom of our God.

_Friday, 17_.--By my suggestion, High Council voted that Samuel Bent and George W. Harris go on a mission to procure money for printing certain books.

_Saturday, 18_.--Elias Smith was ordained a Bishop.

_Sunday, 19_.--An answer to Brigham Young's letter of the 17th of May was sent by Lorenzo Snow, [2] which gave {162} the Twelve permission to publish the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants, and hymn-book, but not to ordain any into the quorum of the Seventies; and likewise some general instructions.

_Monday, 20_.--Elder John Moon and company arrived in New York being the first arrival of Saints in America.

_Wednesday, 22_.

_The Prophet's Letter to William W. Phelps--Welcoming him back into
the Church_. [3]

Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, July 22, 1840.

Dear Brother Phelps:--I must say that it is with no ordinary
feelings I endeavor to write a few lines to you in answer to yours
of the 29th ultimo; at the same time I am rejoiced at the privilege
granted me.

{163} You may in some measure realize what my feelings, as well
as Elder Rigdon's and Brother Hyrum's were, when we read your
letter--truly our hearts were melted into tenderness and compassion
when we ascertained your resolves, &c. I can assure you I feel a
disposition to act on your case in a manner that will meet the
approbation of Jehovah' (whose servant I am), and agreeable to the
principles of truth and righteousness which have been revealed;
and inasmuch as long-suffering, patience, and mercy have ever
characterized the dealings of our heavenly Father towards the
humble and penitent, I feel disposed to copy the example, cherish
the same principles, and by so doing be a savior of my fellow men.

It is true, that we have suffered much in consequence of your
behavior--the cup of gall, already full enough for mortals to
drink, was indeed filled to overflowing when you turned against
us. One with whom we had oft taken sweet counsel together, and
enjoyed many refreshing seasons from the Lord--"had it been an
enemy, we could have borne it." "In the day that thou stoodest on
the other side, in the day when strangers carried away captive his
forces, and foreigners entered into his gates, and cast lots upon
[Far West], even thou wast as one of them; that thou shouldest not
have looked on the day of thy brother, in the day that he became a
stranger, neither shouldst thou have spoken proudly in the day of
distress."

However, the cup has been drunk, the will of our Father has been
done, and we are yet alive, for which we thank the Lord. And having
been delivered from the hands of wicked men by the mercy of our
God, we say it is your privilege to be delivered from the powers of
the adversary, be brought into the liberty of God's dear children,
and again take your stand among the Saints of the Most High, and by
diligence, humility, and love unfeigned, commend yourself to our
God, and your God, and to the Church of Jesus Christ.

Believing your confession to be real, and your repentance genuine,
I shall be happy once again to give you the right hand of
fellowship, and rejoice over the returning prodigal.

Your letter was read to the Saints last Sunday, and an expression
of their feeling was taken, when it was unanimously

{164} _Resolved_, That W. W. Phelps should be received into fellowship.

"Come on, dear brother, since the war is past,
For friends at first, are friends again at last."

Yours as ever, Joseph Smith, Jun.

_Credentials of Elders Samuel Bent and George W. Harris_.

To all whom it may concern:--This is to certify that Elders Samuel
Bent and George W. Harris are authorized agents of the Church of
Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, being appointed by the First
Presidency and High Council of said Church to visit the branches
of the Church in the east, or wherever they may be led in the
providence of God, to obtain donations and subscriptions for the
purpose of printing the Book of Mormon, Doctrine and Covenants,
hymn-books, the new translation of the Scriptures. They are
likewise instructed and authorized to procure loans in behalf
of the Church, for carrying into operation the above and other
important works necessary to the well being of said Church.

From our long acquaintance with these our beloved brethren, their
long, tried friendship under circumstances the most trying and
painful, their zeal for the cause of truth, and their strict
morality and honesty we most cheerfully recommend them to the
Saints of the Most High. Any statements they may make relative to
their mission may be implicitly relied upon, and any loans which
they may obtain, will be considered binding on the Church. And we
do hope the Saints will do all in their power to effect the object
proposed, and lift up the hands of our beloved brethren who have
cheerfully come forward to engage in a work so great and important.

Joseph Smith, Jun., President,

William Marks,

Elias Higbee,

David Dort,

Charles C. Rich,

Seymour Brunson,

William Huntington,

Hyrum Smith,

Newel Knight,

Alpheus Cutler,

Henry G. Sherwood,

David Fullmer,

Thomas Grover,

Lewis D. Wilson.

_The Prophet's Letter to Oliver Granger--Dealing Chiefly with
Affairs at Kirtland_.

_Brother Granger_:

Dear Sir:--It was with great pleasure I received your and Brother
Richards' letter, dated New York, June 23, 1840, and was very happy
{165} to be informed of your safe arrival in that place, and your
probability of success; and I do hope that your anticipations will
be realized, and that you will be enabled to free the Lord's House
from all incumbrances, and be prospered in all your undertakings
for the benefit of the Church; and pray that while you are exerting
your influence to bring about an object so desirable, that the
choicest blessings of heaven may rest down upon you, while you are
endeavoring to do so, and attending to the duties laid upon you by
the authorities of the Church in this place.

I am sorry to be informed not only in your letter, but from other
respectable sources, of the strange conduct pursued in Kirtland by
Elder Almon W. Babbitt. I am indeed surprised that a man having the
experience which Brother Babbitt has had, should take any steps
whatever, calculated to destroy the confidence of the brethren in
the Presidency or any of the authorities of the Church.

In order to conduct the affairs of the Kingdom in righteousness, it
is all important that the most perfect harmony, kind feeling, good
understanding, and confidence should exist in the hearts of all the
brethren; and that true charity, love one towards another, should
characterize all their proceedings. If there are any uncharitable
feelings, any lack of confidence, then pride, arrogance and envy
will soon be manifested; confusion must inevitably prevail, and
the authorities of the Church set at naught; and under such
circumstances, Kirtland cannot rise and free herself from the
captivity in which she is held, and become a place of safety for
the Saints, nor can the blessings of Jehovah rest upon her.

If the Saints in Kirtland deem me unworthy of their prayers when
they assemble together, and neglect to bear me up at the throne of
heavenly grace, it is a strong and convincing proof to me that they
have not the Spirit of God. If the revelations we have received
are true, who is to lead the people? If the keys of the Kingdom
have been committed to my hands, who shall open out the mysteries
thereof?

As long as my brethren stand by me and encourage me, I can combat
the prejudices of the world, and can bear the contumely and abuse
with joy; but when my brethren stand aloof, when they begin to
faint, and endeavor to retard my progress and enterprise, then I
feel to mourn, but am no less determined to prosecute my task,
being confident that although my earthly friends may fail, and even
turn against me, yet my Heavenly Father will bear me off triumphant.

However, I hope that even in Kirtland there are some who do not
make a man an offender for a word, but are disposed to stand forth
in defense of righteousness and truth, and attend to every duty
{166} enjoined upon them; and who will have wisdom to direct them
against any movement or influence calculated to bring confusion and
discord into the camp of Israel, and to discern between the spirit
of truth and the spirit of error.

It would be gratifying to my mind to see the Saints in Kirtland
flourish, but think the time is not yet come; and I assure you it
never will until a different order of things be established and
a different spirit manifested. When confidence is restored, when
pride shall fall, and every aspiring mind be clothed with humility
as with a garment, and selfishness give place to benevolence and
charity, and a united determination to live by every word which
proceedeth out of the mouth of the Lord is observable, then, and
not till then, can peace, order and love prevail.

It is in consequence of aspiring men that Kirtland has been
forsaken. How frequently has your humble servant been envied in his
office by such characters, who endeavored to raise themselves to
power at his expense, and seeing it impossible to do so, resorted
to foul slander and abuse, and other means to effect his overthrow.
Such characters have ever been the first to cry out against the
Presidency, and publish their faults and foibles to the four winds
of heaven.

I cannot forget the treatment I received in the house of my
friends. These things continually roll across my mind, and cause
me much sorrow of heart; and when I think that others who have
lately come into the Church should be led to Kirtland instead of to
this place, by Elder Babbitt; and having their confidence in the
authorities lessened by such observations as he (Elder Babbitt) has
thought proper to make, as well as hearing all the false reports
and exaggerated accounts of our enemies--I must say that I feel
grieved in spirit, and cannot tolerate such proceedings--neither
will I; but will endeavor to disabuse the minds of the Saints, and
break down all such unallowed proceedings.

It was something new to me when I heard there had been secret
meetings held in the Lord's House, and that some of my
friends--faithful brethren--men enjoying the confidence of the
Church, should be locked out. Such proceedings are not calculated
to promote union, or peace, but to engender strife; and will be a
curse instead of a blessing. To those who are young in the work, I
know they are calculated to be, and must be, injurious. Those who
have had experience, and who should know better than to reflect on
their brethren--there is no excuse for them.

If Brother Babbitt and the other brethren wish to reform the
Church, and come out and make a stand against sin and speculation,
&c., they must use other weapons than lies, or their object can
never be effected; {167} and their labors will be given to the
house of the stranger, rather than to the House of the Lord.

The proceedings of Brother Babbitt were taken into consideration
at a meeting of the Church at this place, when it was unanimously
resolved, that fellowship should be withdrawn from him until
he make satisfaction for the course he has pursued: of which
circumstance I wish you to apprise him without delay, and demand
his license.

Dear sir, I wish you to stand in your lot, and keep the station
which was given you by revelation and the authorities of the
Church. Attend to the affairs of the Church with diligence, and
then rest assured of the blessings of heaven. It is binding on
you to act as president of the Church in Kirtland, until you are
removed by the same authority which put you in; and I do hope there
will be no cause for opposition, but that good feeling will be
manifested in future by all the brethren.

Brother Burdick's letter to Brother Hyrum was duly received, for
which he has our best thanks; it was indeed an admirable letter,
and worthy of its author. The sentiments expressed were in
accordance with the spirit of the Gospel, and the principles are
correct.

I am glad that Brother Richards has continued with you, and hope he
has been of some service to you. Give my love to him.

Our prospects in this place continue good. Considerable numbers
have come in this spring. There were some bickerings respecting
your conduct soon after your departure, but they have all blown
over, and I hope there will never be any occasion for any more;
but that you will commend yourself to God and to the Saints by a
virtuous walk and holy conversation.

I had a letter from William W. Phelps a few days ago, informing
me of his desire to come back to the Church, if we would accept
of him. He appears very humble, and is willing to make every
satisfaction that Saints or God may require.

We expect to have an edition of the Book of Mormon printed by the
first of September; it is now being stereotyped in Cincinnati.

I am, &c., &c.,

Joseph Smith, Jun.

[Sidenote: A Jew's Memorial.]

An interesting memorial concerning the Jews, "To the Protestant Powers of Europe and America," signed and sealed in London the 8th of January, 1839, may be found in the _Millennial Star_, Vol. I, No. 6. [4]

{168} _Sunday, 24_.--Elder William Donaldson, member of the British army bound for the East Indies, writes from Chatham, 24th of July, "We go on board tomorrow. I have had a glorious vision about going into the land of Egypt."

_Saturday, 25_.

_Letter of John C. Bennett to Joseph Smith and Sidney
Rigdon--Announcing His Intention to Join the Saints_.

Fairfield, Illinois, July 25, 1840.

Reverend and Dear Friends:--The last time I wrote you was during
the pendency of your difficulties with the Missourians. You are
aware that at that time I held the office of "Brigadier-General of
the Invincible Dragoons" of this state, and proffered you my entire
energies for your deliverance from a ruthless and savage, though
cowardly foe; but the Lord came to your rescue, and saved you with
a powerful arm. I am happy to find that you are now in a civilized
land, and in the enjoyment of peace and happiness.

Some months ago I resigned my office with an intention of removing
to your town, and joining your people; but hitherto I have been
prevented. I hope, however, to remove to Commerce, and unite with
your Church next spring. I believe I should be much happier with
you. I have many things to communicate which I would prefer doing
orally; and I propose to meet you in Springfield on the first
Monday in December next, as I shall be there at the time on state
and United States business.

If I remove to Commerce, I expect to follow my profession, and to
that end I enclose you a slip from the _Louisville Journal_, to
give you an idea of my professional standing.

On the first of this month I was appointed to the office of {169}
"Quartermaster-General of the State of Illinois," which office I
expect to hold some years.

I hope you are all quite well. In haste. Write me immediately.

Yours respectfully,

John C. Bennett. [5]

To Messrs. Smith and Rigdon.

_Monday, 27_.

_Letter of John C. Bennett to Messrs. Smith and Rigdon--Making
Further Tender of his Services to the Church_.

Quartermaster-General's Office,

Fairfield, Illinois, July 27, 1840.

_To the Reverends Sidney Rigdon and Joseph Smith, Jun_.:

Respected Friends:--I wrote you a few days ago from this place, but
my great desire to be with you and your people prompts me to write
again at this time; and I hope it will not be considered obtrusive
by friends whom I have always so highly esteemed as yourselves.

At the last District and Circuit Court of the United States, holden
at Springfield, in June last, I had the honor of being on the
grand inquest of the United States for the District of Illinois,
and hoped to have seen you there; but was quite disappointed. I
attended the meeting of your people opposite Mr. Lowry's hotel, but
did not make myself known, as I had no personal acquaintance in the
congregation.

It would be my deliberate advice to you to concentrate all of your
Church at one point. If Hancock county, with Commerce for its
commercial emporium, is to be that point, well; fix upon it, and
let us cooperate with a general concerted action. You can rely upon
me in any event. I am with you in spirit, and will be in person as
soon as circumstances permit, and immediately if it is your desire.
Wealth is no material object with me. I desire to be happy, and am
fully satisfied that can enjoy myself better with your people, with
my present views and feelings, than with any other. I hope that
time will soon come when your people will become my people, and
your God my God.

At the time of your peril and bitter persecution in Missouri, you
are {170} aware I proffered you my utmost energies, and had not
the conflict terminated so speedily, I should have been with you
then. God be thanked for your rescue from the hand of a savage, but
cowardly foe!

I do not expect to resign my office of "Quartermaster-General of
the State of Illinois" in the event of my removal to Commerce,
unless you advise otherwise. I shall likewise expect to practice
my profession; but at the same time your people shall have all
the benefit of my speaking powers, and my untiring energies in
behalf of the good and holy faith. _Un necessariis unitas, in non
necessariis libertas, in omnibus charitas_, [6] shall be my motto
with--_Suaviter in modo, fortiter in re_. [7]

Be so good as to inform me substantially of the population of
Commerce and Hancock county, the face of the country, climate,
soil, health, &c., &c. How many of your people are concentrated
there? Please to write me in full immediately. Louisville paper
will accompany this; please inquire for it.

With sentiments of profound respect and esteem, suffer me to
subscribe myself,

Yours respectfully,

John C. Bennett.

Elder John Taylor sailed for Ireland from Liverpool. [8]

_Tuesday, 28_.

_Letter of the Prophet to Horace R. Hotchkiss--Rock River Lands and
the White Purchase_.

Nauvoo, July 28, 1840.

_Horace R. Hotchkiss, Esq_.:

Dear Sir:--I acknowledge the receipt of yours of last month,
giving me the numbers of the land on Rock River, which you felt
disposed to sell. In reply to which I have to say, that we have not
yet examined the land, and consequently have not arrived at any
conclusion {171} respecting it; but it is probable that some of my
friends will visit it this fall, and if we should think it wisdom
to locate there, or on the other tract, you will be informed of the
same, and arrangements entered into.

I am sorry that your health has been so poor, but hope, ere
this, you are perfectly recovered. It would afford me great
pleasure indeed, could I hold out any prospect of the two notes
due next month being met at maturity, or even this fall. Having
had considerable difficulty (necessarily consequent on a new
settlement) to contend with, as well as poverty and considerable
sickness, our first payment will be probably somewhat delayed,
until we again get a good start in the world; and I am happy to
say, the prospect is indeed favorable. Under these circumstances
we shall have to claim your indulgence, which I have no doubt will
be extended. However, every exertion on our part shall be made
to meet the demands against us, so that if we cannot accomplish
all we wish to, it will be our misfortune, and not our fault.
Notwithstanding the impoverished condition of our people, and the
adverse circumstances under which we have had to labor, I hope we
shall eventually rise above them, and again enjoy the blessings of
health, peace, and plenty.

You were informed in a former letter that we had paid Mr. William
White the one thousand dollars specified in your bond; a few days
ago he called at this place and agreed to give us a deed for the
ninety acres, (less one-half acre), providing I would give him an
identifying bond, and pay the interest due from you to him on the
one thousand dollars, which I agreed to do. I have therefore got
the deed for the land, and paid him the interest. My reasons for
so doing were these: there are some who wish to purchase lots,
providing they can get a good title deed for the same, and who
would be induced to make purchases and make an effort to raise
money, for the sake of getting a deed; which effort they would not
be so likely to make if we could only give them a bond. This I
think will work both to your advantage and ours, and hope that we
shall be able by and by to make some cash sales.

I hope this arrangement with Mr. White will meet your approbation,
although it is a departure from the common rules of business; but
was induced to do so from the advantages which will result from it,
which I hope will be mutual. The amount of interest paid to Mr.
White, after deducting $61.50, which was coming from him to you
for rents, was eighty-four dollars and forty cents. Mr. White told
us that you agreed to pay him as much interest for the money as he
could get elsewhere. We accordingly (in good faith) allowed him at
the rate of ten per cent. Hoping the course pursued will meet your
approbation.

I am, respectfully, your obedient servant,

Joseph Smith, Jun.

{172} P. S.--You will recollect the verbal agreement entered into
by us, that the notes for the interest would not be exacted for
at least five years. Notwithstanding which, we use our endeavors
to meet them as fast as possible, and think that when I have the
pleasure of seeing you again, you will be fully satisfied with the
course we have taken, and our endeavors to meet all our engagements.

J. S., Jun.

_Thursday, 30_.

_Letter of John C. Bennett to Messrs. Smith and Rigdon--Expressing
Anxiety to be with the Saints_.

Fairfield, Wayne County, Illinois, July 30th, 1840.

_To Reverends Sidney Rigdon, and Joseph Smith, Jun_.

Respected Friends:--It is with difficulty that I can forego the
felicity of an immediate immersion into the true faith of your
beloved people. I have written you several letters, and forwarded
you several newspapers to Commerce, which I hope will be duly
received, as they contain some matters of importance.

Is Nauvoo, or Commerce, to be the general point of concentration
for the Mormon people? For at that point I desire to locate, and
ever remain. My anxiety to be with you is daily increasing, and I
shall wind up my professional business immediately, and proceed to
your blissful abode, if you think it best.

Look at all my letters and papers and write me forthwith. You are
aware that at the time of your most bitter persecutions, I was
with you in feeling, and proffered you my military knowledge and
prowess. My faith is still strong. I believe the God of the whole
earth will avenge your wrong in time as well as in eternity.

O my friends, go on and prosper; and may the God of all grace save
you with an everlasting salvation.

Yours respectfully,

J. C. Bennett.

_Saturday, August 1_.--In the _Times and Seasons_ of this month I find the following:

_A voice from the holy city--rebuilding of the temple of
Solomon--Recall of the people of God to the land of Judah_.

We have received by the last packet from England, a copy of a
very extraordinary "Circular" issued by the Jews, now residing
at Jerusalem, and addressed to all the descendants of Abraham to
the uttermost {173} ends of the earth. It is written in the pure
Hebrew character, and accompanied with an English translation,
which we annex as matter of the deepest curiosity to the people of
this country. Next week, if we possibly can, we shall publish the
original Hebrew in a double sheet, but at present we must content
ourselves with the translation.--_Morning Herald_.

Circular.

"_To our Brethren the Israelites of Europe and America_:

"The liberal and benevolent contributors towards every holy and
pious purpose--ready to stand in the breach and evince their love
for the Land of Promise: to the well-wishers of Jerusalem, and
friends of Zion (dearer to us than life) who extend their bounteous
aid to this Holy City, and devote their best means, in love and
affection, 'to take pity on her stones, and show mercy to her
dust.' To the illustrious and excellent Rabbies--to their worthy
and distinguished Assessors--to the noble Chiefs and faithful
Leaders of Israel; to all congregations devoted to the Lord, and
to every member thereof--health, life, and prosperity. May the
Lord vouchsafe His protection unto them; may they rejoice and be
exceedingly glad; and with their own eyes may they behold when the
Lord restoreth Zion. Such be His gracious will. Amen.

"It is a fact well known throughout Judah and Israel, that 'the
glory altogether departed from the daughter of Zion,' since upwards
of one hundred years ago, the congregation of German Jews in this
Holy City were forcibly deprived of their homes and inheritance.
Dreadful and grievous was the yoke under which the despots of this
land oppressed them. Tyranny and cruel usage ground them to the
dust, and forced them to forsake their habitations, to abandon
their houses and all their property, and to seek safety in flight.
Thus the large court they inherited from their ancestors remained
deserted and uninhabited, until it was seized upon and possessed by
aliens. The sacred edifices it contained, namely, the Synagogue and
Medrash, were by them demolished, the whole of the property utterly
ruined, and possessions, lawfully ours, devastated before our eyes.
Then did our souls refuse all consolation! For how could we bear to
witness the evil which befell our people!

"As the light gleams forth from a spark, so did our congregation
take heart and return again to form their establishments, and to
take root on the Holy Mount. But we could find no rest for our
wearied feet--no place consecrated and appointed for our prayer and
instruction. Our aching eyes beheld how every nation and tongue,
even from the most distant isles of the ocean, is here possessed
of structures defended by walls, gates, and portcullis, whilst the
people of the Lord, forcibly {174} expelled from their inheritances
by rapacious barbarians, were covered with obloquy, scorn, and
disgrace.

"The cries of the people ascended unto the Lord who dwelleth
in Zion. He looked down, and in pity beheld their sufferings
and oppression. And ever since the ruler of Egypt first assumed
the government of the Holy Land--a ruler who maintains justice
throughout his dominions--an edict was issued permitting Jews to
do whatsoever they deemed right and expedient, with respect to
the rebuilding of their demolished synagogues and colleges. Us,
likewise, the Lord in His mercy vouchsafed to remember, and caused
us to be reinstated into the heritage of our fathers, even to the
aforementioned court, which is called the Ruin of R. Jehudah the
Pious (of blessed memory).

"Blessed be the Lord our God, the God of our fathers, who inspired
the heart of the ruler of Egypt to restore unto us the possessions
of our ancestors. Nor did we delay or lose time in the matter, but
exerted ourselves to rebuild Jerusalem.

"'We fenced it, and gathered up the stones thereof,' and the sacred
undertaking prospered in our hands, so that we have completed the
Medrash, and 'great is the glory of the house;' and also houses
for the teachers of the law, and for the hospitable reception and
entertainment of strangers, which were indispensably necessary
to accommodate the many pious Israelites who visit the Holy City
during the festivals. And on _Rosh Hodesh Shebath_ last we joyfully
placed a Sepher Torah in the Medrash, which we consecrated by the
name of '_Menahem Zion_,' for the Lord has vouchsafed to comfort
His people.

"But although we have thus, under the blessings of Providence,
retrieved from devastation a part of the possessions bequeathed
unto us by our pious ancestors, yet our hearts are afflicted and
our eyes are dimmed when we behold the sanctuary of our Lord, the
Synagogue, which still lies in ruins; nor is it in the power of all
of us (the German Congregation) to rebuild it; for alas! great is
the number of our poor who stand in need of bread, and the debts
we contracted in building the Medrash are large, and weigh heavily
upon us.

"The cause of our grief is thus ever present to our eyes--the
ruins of the Synagogue are heaped in the middle of the court, and
rank weeds spread over the consecrated pile. We therefore deem it
our bounden duty to dispatch a messenger unto our brethren, the
children of Israel, who are dispersed and in exile, in order to
acquaint them with 'the salvation of the Lord in the land,' so that
they may arise and take pity on Zion, for it is time to show mercy
unto her.

"To undertake this laborious duty was the voluntary offer of
our dearly beloved friend, that profound and renowned Rabbi,
the zealous and honorable _Aaron Selig Ashkenazi_. He is a man
confirmed in the {175} fear of the Lord, of a faithful stock;
and him we depute as our messenger, worthy of all trust, to make
proclamation unto the communities of Israel 'according to the sight
which he has seen in the Holy Mount,' and to him we have given
letters of authorization, containing full particulars as to his
pious mission, and every necessary information relating thereto.

"Now, therefore, let the righteous behold and rejoice. Let the
pious exult and triumph in gladness. The day ye have so long hoped
for is come, and ye see it. The crown of holiness will again adorn
its former abode. Therefore, arise, and take upon yourselves,
according to the words of this letter, to devote a portion of your
wealth as a sacred tribute towards erecting 'the Temple of the Most
Holy King on the mountain of the Lord'--that ye may have a portion
and a righteous record in Jerusalem.

"Let no one among you refuse his aid, but let the poor man
contribute his mite for himself and his household freely, as the
rich dispenses the bounty wherewith the Lord hath blessed him. Let
fathers and their offspring, the aged and the youthful, alike arise
in mercy to Zion at this propitious season.

"Let each man encourage his neighbor and say, 'We will be zealous
and persevering for our people and the City of our God. And for the
love of Zion, and the sake of Jerusalem, we will not rest nor be
easy until Jerusalem is praised throughout the earth, and foremost
in our joys, even as we have vowed:--If I forget thee, Jerusalem,
let my right hand forget her cunning; if I prefer not Jerusalem
above my chief joy.'

"Such are the words of your brethren who address you for the
glory of God, and for the honor of His land, His people and His
inheritance--continually praying for our exiled brethren, and
offering up our orisons on holy ground and particularly near the
_Western Wall_, that it may be well with you everlastingly as you
yourself desire, and we most sincerely wish.

"Signed at Jerusalem, the 18th day of year 5597 a. m., by the
Wardens of the Medrash, and members of the Building Committee, on
behalf of the Congregation of German Jews in this Holy City.

["Signed] Hirsh Joseph,

"David Reuben,

"Nathan Saddis,

"Abraham S. Salmons,

"Mordecai Avigdor,

"Uriah S. Hyam."

The undersigned Assessors of the Bethdin, by the direction of
the {176} Rev. Chief Rabbi, hereby certify that Rev. Aaron Selig
Ashkenazi is actually deputed for the purpose mentioned in the
above circular.

"London, the 7th Tebath,

"24 Dec. 5599.

"Israel Levy,

"Aaron Levy,

"A. L. Barnett."

_Monday, August 3_.--Elders Wilford Woodruff and George A. Smith are at Ledbury, Herefordshire.

_Tuesday, 4_.--Elder Heber C. Kimball left Manchester for Herefordshire, and Joseph Fielding is at Bedford.

_Wednesday, 5_.

_Extract of a Letter from Wilford Woodruff to the Editor of the
Millennial Star--Reporting Labors_.

Beloved Brethren:--Since Elder George A. Smith and myself left
Manchester for the purpose of going to the south of England, we
have visited the churches which lay in our route, and found them
universally prospering and receiving additions.

We preached in Leek on Sunday, July 10th, and Elder Smith baptized
six persons after meeting: and numbers were also baptized in the
churches at the Staffordshire Potteries while we were there. We
passed through West Bromwich and Birmingham, and found numbers
who were anxiously wishing for some of the Elders to visit that
region and labor among them. We arrived in Ludbury, Herefordshire,
July 22nd, and here spent about two weeks in visiting the churches
through this region, and I am happy to inform you, that we have
found the Saints universally rejoicing in the truth, and the work
progressing upon every hand.

Elder Thomas Richardson has baptized about forty since he came,
and Elder William Kay about twenty; they are both much blessed in
their labors. Elder Kington is laboring constantly in this wide
field, which is under his care; and he with the Elders and Priests
generally throughout this region are blessed with many souls as
seals of their ministry. We baptized forty on Sunday last in this
region, making 250 since the conference. The churches here now
number about 800 members and appear [to be] in a very prosperous
state. We are expecting Elder Kimball every hour, and soon after
his arrival we shall leave the Saints in this region, for the
purpose of visiting the city of London and warning the inhabitants
thereof.

Wilford Woodruff.

{177} _Saturday, 8_.--Soon after the July conference at Manchester, Elder Parley P. Pratt started for America for the purpose of getting his family and taking them to England, meantime leaving the _Star_ in charge of President Brigham Young, assisted by Elder Willard Richards.

_The Prophet's Letter to John C. Bennett--Bidding Him Welcome to
Nauvoo, to partake of--its Poverty_.

Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois,

August 8th, 1840.

Dear Sir:--Yours of the 25th ultimo, addressed to Elder Rigdon and
myself, is received, for which you have our thanks, and to which I
shall feel great pleasure in replying.

Although I have not the pleasure of your acquaintance, yet from
the kindness manifested towards our people when in bondage and
oppression, and from the frank and noble mindedness breathed in
your letter, I am brought to the conclusion that you are a friend
to suffering humanity and truth.

To those who have suffered so much abuse, and borne the cruelties
and insults of wicked men so long, on account of those principles
which we have been instructed to teach to the world, a feeling of
sympathy and kindness is something like the refreshing breeze and
cooling stream at the present season of the year, and are, I assure
you, duly appreciated by us.

It would afford me much pleasure to see you at this place, and from
the desire you express in your letter to move to this place, I hope
I shall soon have that satisfaction.

I have no doubt you would be of great service to this community
in practicing your profession, as well as those other abilities
of which you are in possession. Since to devote your time and
abilities in the cause of truth and a suffering people may not
be the means of exalting you in the eyes of this generation, or
securing you the riches of the world, yet by so doing you may rely
on the approval of Jehovah, "that blessing which maketh rich and
addeth no sorrow." Through the tender mercies of our God we have
escaped the hands of those who sought our overthrow, and have
secure locations in this state, and in the territory of Iowa. Our
principal location is at this place, Nauvoo, (formerly Commerce),
which is beautifully situated on the banks of the Mississippi,
immediately above the lower rapids, and is probably the best and
most beautiful site for a city on the river. It has a gradual
ascent from the river nearly a mile, then a fine, level, and
fertile prairie--a situation in {178} every respect adapted to
commercial and agricultural pursuits, but like all other places on
the river, is sickly in summer.

The number of inhabitants is nearly three thousand, and is fast
increasing. If we are suffered to remain, [9] there is every
prospect of its becoming one of the largest cities on the river, if
not in the western world. Numbers have moved in from the seaboard,
and a few from the islands of the sea (Great Britain).

It is our intention to commence the erection of some public
buildings next spring. We have purchased twenty thousand acres in
the Iowa Territory opposite this place, which is fast filling up
with our people. I desire all the Saints, as well as all lovers
of truth and correct principles, to come to this place as fast as
possible, or [as rapidly as] their circumstances will permit, and
endeavor, by energy of action and concentration of talent, &c.,
&c., to effect those objects, that are so dear to us. Therefore my
general invitation is, Let all that will, come, and partake of the
poverty of Nauvoo freely.

I should be disposed to give you a special invitation to come
as early as possible, believing you will be of great service
to us; however, you must make arrangements according to your
circumstances. Were it possible for you to come here this season
to suffer affliction with the people of God, no one will be more
pleased to give you a more cordial welcome than myself.

A charter has been obtained from the legislature for a railroad
from Warsaw, being immediately below the rapids of the Mississippi,
to this place--a distance of about twenty miles, which if carried
into operation will be of incalculable advantage to this place, as
steamboats can only ascend the rapids at a high stage of water. The
soil is good, and I think not inferior to any in the state. Crops
are abundant in this section of country--and I think provisions
will be reasonable.

I should be very happy could I make arrangements to meet you in
Springfield at the time you mention--but cannot promise myself that
pleasure. If I should not, probably you can make it convenient to
come and pay us a visit here, prior to your removal.

Elder Rigdon is very sick, and has been for nearly twelve months
with the fever and ague, which disease is very prevalent here at
this time. At present he is not able to leave his room.

Yours, &c.,

Joseph Smith, Jun.

To J. C. Bennett, M. D.

P. S.--Yours of the 30th is just received, in which I am glad to
learn that your increasing desire to unite yourself with a people
"that are {179} everywhere spoken against," and the anxiety you
feel for our welfare--for which you have my best feelings; and I
pray that my heavenly Father will pour out His choicest blessings
in this world, and enable you by His grace to overcome the evils
which are in the world, that you may secure a blissful immortality
in the world that is to come.

J. S., Jun.

_August 10_.--Colonel Seymour Brunson, aged forty years, ten months and twenty-three days, died at Nauvoo. Colonel Brunson was among the first settlers of this place. He has always been a lively stone in the building of God and was much respected by his friends and acquaintances. He died in the triumph of faith, and in his dying moments bore testimony to the Gospel that he had embraced.

_Saturday, 15_.

_Letter of John C. Bennett to Messrs. Smith and Rigdon--Announcing
that he will soon be in Nauvoo_.

Wayne County Illinois, August 15, 1840.

_Reverends Joseph Smith, Jun., and Sidney Rigdon_.

Respected Friends:--I have written you several communications to
Commerce and Nauvoo, supposing they were different places, but a
brother to a lady in your community, now in this place, informs me
that they are one and the same.

I have received no reply to my letters, and attribute the delay
to a press of business or professional absence. I have come to
the conclusion to join your people immediately, and take up my
abode with you. Let us adopt as our motto--_Licut partribus sit
Deus nobius_--(as God was with our fathers, so may He be with
us), and adapt the means to the end, and the victory is ours. The
winged warrior of the air will not cease to be our proud emblem of
liberty, and the dogs of war will be forever chained.

I shall be with you in about two weeks, and shall devote my time
and energies to the advancement of the cause of truth and virtue,
and the advocacy of the holy religion which you have so nobly
defended, and so honorably sustained.

My love to all the brethren.

With sentiments of fraternal regard.

Yours respectfully,

J. C. Bennett.

Footnotes:

1. Formerly a town in Kent and Surrey, England, on the Thames, noted for its dock yards, now part of London.

2. Lorenzo Snow was born April 30, 1814, in Mantua, Portage county, Ohio. He was the eldest son of Oliver Snow and Rosetta L. Pettibone. The early years of his life were spent upon his father's farm. Later he entered Oberlin College, a Presbyterian institution, in the town of Oberlin, in Lorain county, Ohio, about sixty miles southwest of Kirtland. In June, 1836, he visited Kirtland and attended the Hebrew classes, then being taught in the Temple. While in Kirtland he became a convert to the faith of the Latter-day Saints and was baptized by Elder John Boynton, one of the Twelve Apostles. The following year he did some missionary work among his relatives and friends in Ohio, and in 1836, with his parents, who in the meantime joined the Church, he moved to Missouri, and shortly afterwards went upon a preaching mission through the states of Kentucky and Illinois. A few days before starting upon this mission mentioned in the text, namely, 17th of July, 1840, he was ordained a seventy by President Joseph Young, and the day following was made a High Priest under the hands of Don Carlos Smith. The testimony which this man received of the truth of the Gospel is very interesting, and seems to have remained with him throughout his long life, in all the freshness of its first impression upon him. Having received the usual promise of a testimony of the truth of the work if he obeyed the Gospel, he sought that testimony most earnestly in prayer with the following result as stated by himself:

"I had no sooner opened my lips in an effort to pray than I heard a sound just above my head like the rushing of silken robes; and immediately the Spirit of God descended upon me, completely enveloping my whole person, filling me from the crown of my head to the soles of my feet, and oh, the joyful happiness I felt! No language can describe the almost instantaneous transition from a dense cloud of spiritual darkness into a refulgence of light and knowledge, as it was at that time imparted to my understanding. I received a perfect knowledge that God lives, that Jesus Christ is the son of God, and of the restoration of the Holy Priesthood, and the fullness of the Gospel. It was a complete baptism--a tangible immersion in the heavenly principle or element, the Holy Ghost; and even more physical in its effects upon every part of my system than the immersion by water."

3. When the great offense of Elder William W. Phelps is taken into account--amounting as it did to a betrayal of the Prophet and the Church in Missouri, during the troubles of the Saints in that state--this letter is remarkable. The Prophet's frank forgiveness of his erring brother, gently chiding his wrong-doing, but at the same time remembering in a large way that brother's former devotion and labors; the Prophet's willingness to have the prodigal return and occupy his former high standing among the Saints--all this exhibits a broad-mindedness and generosity that can come only from a great soul, influenced by the spirit of charity enjoined upon his disciples by the teachings of the Son of God. One of the surest evidences of Joseph Smith's greatness of mind and of the inspiration of God upon him is to be seen in his treatment of those who had fallen but were willing to and did repent of their sins. His capacity to forgive under these circumstances seemed boundless.

4. The article which appeared first in a periodical, entitled "Memorial Concerning God's Ancient People of Israel," and then in the _London Times_, seems to have been written by a Christian Jew. It deals largely with the promises of God to ancient Israel, especially as to their return as a people to Palestine. The closing paragraph is an appeal to the Protestant powers of the north of Europe and America to assist in this restoration: "As the spirit of Cyrus, king of Persia, was stirred up to build the Lord a temple, which was in Jerusalem (2 Chron., xxxvi:22, 23), who is there among you, high and mighty ones of all the nations, to find the good pleasure of the holy will of the Lord of heaven, saying to Jerusalem, 'Thou shalt be built,' and to the temple, 'Thy foundation shall be laid?' (Isa. xliv:28). The Lord God of Israel be with such. Great grace, mercy and peace shall descend upon the people who offer themselves willingly; and the free offerings of their hearts and hands shall be those of a sweet smelling savor unto him who hath said, 'I will bless thee (Gen. xii:3), and contend with him that contendeth with thee.'" (Isa. xlix:25).

5. "This was a Dr. John C. Bennett, a man who seems to have been without any moral character, but who had filled positions of importance. Born in Massachusetts in 1804, he practiced as a physician in Ohio, and later in Illinois, holding a professorship in Willoughby University, Ohio, and taking with him to Illinois testimonials as to his professional skill. In the latter state he showed a taste for military affairs, and after being elected brigadier-general of the Invincible Dragoons, he was appointed quartermaster-general of the state in 1840, and held that position at the state capital when the Mormons applied to the legislature for a charter for Nauvoo." ("The Story of the Mormons," Linn, 1901).

6. Translation: In essentials, unity; in non-essentials, liberty; in all things, charity.

7. Gently in the manner, firmly in the act.

8. Elder John Taylor was accompanied on this mission by Brothers McGuffie and William Black. Elder Taylor had baptized Brother McGuffie while laboring in Liverpool; and as the new convert had some acquaintances in Newry, county Down, Ireland, he thought it advisable to take him along. A large company of saints went with them to see them off. The day after sailing, Elder Taylor and companions arrived in Newry, a beautiful Irish village nestling among rolling hills, characteristic of that part of Ireland. Brother McGuffie obtained the court house to hold a meeting in, and sent around the bell-man to give notice of it. A congregation of six or seven hundred gathered in at seven o'clock in the evening, and Elder Taylor preached to them. This was the introduction of the Gospel into Ireland.

9. "If we are suffered to remain" sounds somewhat prophetic and ominous.

{180}