Difference between revisions of "Elder's Journal/1/3"

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  | notes      = [[Category:Primary sources]]Source document in online archive: [http://archive.org/stream/eldersjournalkir01unse#page/20/mode/2up ''Elder's Journal'' Vol. 1]
 
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Far West, May, 1838. 
 +
Notwithstanding all the efforts of the enemies to the truth, both from without and within, to the contrary, we are enabled to present this Journal, to the patrons, with the prospect of being able to continue it in time to come, without interruption.
 +
 +
Great have been the exertions of the opposers to righteousness, to prevent us from sending abroad the doctrines of the church to the world; every effort has been used by the combined influence of all classes of enemies, and of all sects and parties of religion; and of those who are opposed to it in all its forms to prevent it.
 +
 +
It is indeed somewhat unexpected to us, to be able to commence printing the Journal again so soon; but the general interest felt in it by the Saints in general soon, in a degree, repaired the loss which was suffered in the burning of the press in Kirtland; and another establishment by the exertions of the Saints in Far West, has been obtained, sufficiently large to print the Journal; and soon will be greatly enlarged, so as to do all the printing necessary for the whole church.
 +
 +
We have no doubt, but liberal minded men will continue to aid with their means so that the establishment will be sufficiently supplied with means to make the largest of the kind, anywhere in the region of country where it is located.
 +
 +
In this place, the church is as pleasantly situated as could be expected, taking into consideration their circumstances, as the settlement here is but about eighteen months old, and the first settlers had been driven from their homes and all their property destroyed, and had to come here without anything. — But to their honor it may be said, that few people on earth have endured the same degree of persecution, with the same patience.
 +
 +
Nothing discouraged by the great afflictions and tribulations which they have had to endure for Christ's sake. They united with all their powers, to turn a solitary place into a fruitful field —  we do not say a wilderness, for there is not a sufficiency of timber to make it a wilderness —  and have exceeded the highest expectations of the most enthusiastic.
 +
 +
Large bodies of land have been, and are now putting under cultivation.
 +
 +
We might venture an assertion on this point, and that without the fear of contradiction by those who are acquainted with the settlements in this vicinity, and that is, no part of the world can produce a superior to Caldwell County, if an equal. Eighteen months since without scarcely an inhabitant; at this time the City of "Far West," the county seat, has one hundred and fifty houses, and almost the whole county is taken up, or all that part of it, which can be conveniently settled for want of timber; and large bodies of it are now under cultivation.
 +
 +
An enconium [economy] too high, cannot be placed upon the heads of the enterprising and industrious habits of the people of this county. They are fast making for themselves and their posterity after them as beautiful, interesting, and as profitable homes as can be in any country.
 +
 +
In a very few years and it will be said with propriety, "that the solitary place has become glad for them," and we can say, that no people will be as glad for it.
 +
 +
The town "Far West" is situated in Caldwell county Missouri, in the midst of a prairie of very rich soil. It is an elevated piece of land, and has a commanding view of the surrounding country for many miles, in every direction. On the north, about one mile, passes Shoal Creek, a heavy stream which has many water privileges on it. On the south, a little more than half a mile, runs Goose Creek, a tributary of Shoal. It also is large enough to admit of water-works.
 +
 +
To all appearance the country is healthy, and the farming interest is equal to that in any part of the world; and the means of living are very easily obtained, not even luxuries excepted.
 +
 +
From this to the territorial line on the north, is from eighty to one hundred miles and to the line on the west, twenty five or upwards, or what was the territorial line before the purchase
 +
 +
{{page break|34|top}}
 +
 +
of what is called the Platt and Nodawa countries, or rather Notawa, which signifies rattle snake.
 +
 +
It will be seen by this, that this town is situated in the northern corner of the state of Missouri, in the 40th deg. of north latitude. The land is rolling and generally dry; at least there are no more wet lands than are necessary for grazing purposes, when the country becomes all subdued.
 +
 +
The Saints here are at perfect peace with all the surrounding inhabitants, and persecution is not so much as once named among them; every man can attend to business without fear or excitement, or being molested in any wise. There are many of the inhabitants of this town, who own lands in the vicinity, and are at this time busily engaged in cultivating them. Hundreds of acres of corn have been planted already, in our immediate neighborhood; and hundreds of acres more are now being planted. (This is the fourth day of May).
 +
 +
The crops of wheat are very promising, and the prospect is that we will have an abundant harvest. The vast quantities of provision purchased, in this upper country by the United States, for the use of the Garrison, and also for the Indians have made all kinds of provision dear, and somewhat scarce. Corn is fifty cents per bushel; wheat one dollar; pork from eight, to ten dollars per cwt.; and all kinds of provision on a par with these.
 +
 +
Perhaps it might be thought by some necessary, that we should say something about the affairs of Kirtland. — The burning of the printing office here &c. But it is now, as in former days. In former days the destroyers of the Saints' property were of the baser sort of mankind, even so it is now. And as the Saints in former days considered a formal notice of them, beneath both their character and standing, so do the Saints in like manner now. Only say as they did; "That a gang of the baser sort burned and wasted our property to the utmost of their power" regardless of law, justice, or humanity, and were upheld in their wickedness, by those who were like the high priest in Paul's day, who though, he sat to judge after the law, commanded Paul to be smitten contrary to law. So it was not our persecutors in the east: for notwithstanding they sat to judge after the law, yet commanded they our property to be destroyed contrary to law.
 +
 +
And as Paul and Barnabas did at Iconium. So did we at Kirtland. — "When there was an assault made, both of the Gentiles, and also of the Jews, with their rulers, to use them despitefully, and to stone them. They were ware [aware] of it, and fled into Lystria and Derbe, cities of Lyconia, and unto the region that lieth round about. And there they preached the gospel."
 +
 +
So we did in like manner, taking them for our example. When there was an assault being made, of liars, thieves, and religionists, with their rulers all combined, we were aware of it, and fled to "Far West," and are here preaching the gospel whereunto we are called by the power of God. Let so much suffice for Kirtland.
 +
 +
We have the gratification of saying to the Elders abroad, that we hope to be able to furnish the Journal regularly, from hence forth, as long as it may be thought wisdom to continue it. And we hope on their part, they will use all their exertions to give it circulation.
 +
 +
The enemies have made so many attempts to destroy us, and always failed, that we now just laugh at them for fools, as the God of heaven said he would at their calamity.
 +
PROSPECTUS
 +
FOR THE ELDERS' JOURNAL.
 +
OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST, OF LATTER DAY SAINTS.
 +
 +
It is, we presume, generally known, that this paper was commenced in Kirtland, Ohio, in October last; but by reason of the great persecution against the Saints in that place, the paper had to be stopped; and through the craft of wicked men they got possession of the printing office, and knowing they could not hold it, it was burned.
 +
The paper is now about to be resuscitated in this place, to be conducted as set forth in the former prospectus. It will be issued in a few weeks, and sent to the former subscribers, as previously stated.
 +
We send this prospectus to arouse the Saints to energy in obtaining subscribers. — We hope the Elders abroad, will not fail to use their influence to give as general a circulation as possible.
 +
The JOURNAL will be Edited by Joseph Smith jr., and Published by Thomas B. Marsh, at Far West, Caldwell County Missouri.
 +
Terms -- One dollar, per annum, paid in advance. All letters must be Post Paid, and directed to the Publisher.
 +
Far West, Mo. April 26, 1838.
 +
 +
{{page break|35|top}}
 +
Vinalhaven, Fox Islands, Me.
 +
March 9th, 1838.
 +
BISHOP EDWARD PARTRIDGE, AND PRESIDENTS JOSEPH SMITH JR., SIDNEY RIGDON, HYRUM SMITH, and THE SAINTS IN ZION, GREETING:
 +
 +
Dear friends in the new and everlasting covenant;
 +
 +
I, Wilford Woodruff, sit down to inform you that I have just heard correctly of the deplorable state of things in Kirtland, and I have this day held a council with Elders J. Ball and J. Townsend, who are now with me upon these Islands, and we resolved to address a few lines to you concerning our feelings, and set before you a brief account of things with us, and the course we intend to pursue. I have labored principally alone upon these Islands, since Elder Hale left last fall, and the work of the Lord has prospered in my hands, or in other words, the Lord has worked with me during the winter. Elder Joseph Ball has been with me for a number of weeks past upon the Islands. There is rising of 40 members in the church on these Islands, and they are strong in the faith. I returned last evening from a mission in company with Elder James Townsend. We have been visiting the most notable cities and vilages [villages] in the eastern country, and delivering unto them the word of God.
 +
 +
We preached in their City Halls, Chapels, School houses, dwellings &c., in such places as Camden, Belfast, Northport, Frankfort, Hampden and the City of Bangor. Doors were open in all of these places, and many others I might mention, and the people heard with profound attention; and many are believing. I never saw more doors open for doing good than at the present time in the State of Maine: But the Devil is stirred up against me here on the Island.
 +
 +
One Methodist priest has applied several times for a warrant to take me, but the Officers, as yet, will not grant him any, for he cannot bring any accusation against me in truth or justice.
 +
 +
The most trouble I now have is the stopping the papers. I have forwarded about 30 subscribers with the money, and now the press is burnt down, and our enemies roar in the midst of the congregations, and they set up these ensigns for signs.
 +
 +
I expect the report of these things will come like a clap of thunder in the ears of the Saints upon these Islands and else where. They do not know it yet, but are wondering why these papers do not come. We have appointed a time to meet the church, and we shall lay all these things before them, and trust in God for wisdom to direct us. The Elders that are with me are expecting to go to their homes, and I shall be left to fight the battles alone. Brethren, pray for me out of Zion, for I have a load to bear; but in the name of Elijah's God, I am determined to stand at my post. I feel as though the time of Jacob's trouble had begun, but I know God will deliver him out of it and fulfil [fulfill] his word.
 +
 +
We are advising the Saints of God to go from this country to Zion, as soon as they can. I suppose this is right; many are preparing to go the following season.
 +
 +
Now we say to the Presidency of the church in Zion, we do not expect to counsel you, nor anyone there. Let God be your counselors. But we ask, can it not be consistent with the will of God and your feelings and circumstances, to soon publish the Elders' Journal from Zion, that we may have one weapon, to cut away some of the deep gloom, that will be cast upon the minds of thousands of the Saints, by wicked men and devils, and false brethren. The traveling Elders feel the wait of these things, equally, if not more than those who are in Zion; for we are naked targets to the press and tongue, as we pass through the midst of the Gentiles. O my God! have mercy and support us, I pray, through the toils that are to come, that our garments may be washed white in the blood of the Lamb! For it is through tribulation that we inherit the blessing and overcome.
 +
 +
Could the Elders' Journal be continued, it would be great relief to the feelings of all the faithful; for while our enemies are publishing against us, even in Kirtland, we should also know what God is doing for his Saints.
 +
 +
Brethren, we pray you to consider this last clause, not for our sake alone, but for the sake of all the faithful that are scattered abroad. We do not make these remarks because we have any lack of confidence in you. — No, God forbid, we believe you have done, and will do all that lies in your power for
 +
 +
{{page break|36|top}}
 +
the salvation of Israel; and for one, I pray God to take away my life, sooner than to suffer me to turn my back upon the faithful part of the Church of Latter Day Saints, and Joseph whom God hath chosen to lead his people. O my soul mourns over the corruptions of the hearts of men! O how man will stumble in dark places, when he neglects prayer and departs from his God! O ye Saints of Zion, watch and pray and keep the Celestial law which is safe!
 +
 +
That you may know the feelings of the undersigners of this page, we say to you before God, that we are in full fellowship with Joseph Smith, jr. and the first Presidency of the church, and with all who still adhere to, and receive their teachings and instructions; and we say, in the name of Jesus Christ, that we will uphold such by our prayers, faith, and influence, at the risk of our fortunes, lives and worldly honor. "For life is but a name, when virtue and truth is gone."
 +
 +
We further believe that judgment awaits the world speedily, Kirtland not excepted, and we do believe that those who have dissented from the body of the church will have cause to lament for their folly. We ask in the name of reason and revelation, who has power to take from Joseph the keys delivered to him by the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and deprive him of the work that God has said he should perform? We answer, none but God alone. We believe the book of Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants, speaks too loud upon the subject, to fall unfulfilled and to be made void, by those who have neglected prayer and departed from the living God, and sought to take honor unto themselves. O ye Saints of God in Zion! we entreat you to uphold Joseph by prayer, faith, brotherly love, and charity; for we testify, in the spirit of God, that he will be brought off conqueror, and his enemies put to shame.
 +
 +
Do you remember his toils and labors for your salvation? Nothing but a God has supported him to the present day. His perils are great, and the greatest are among false brethren; and we do entreat the Saints in Zion not to add to his wounds, by following the example of many in Kirtland. Bear with us, ye Saints of God, while we exhort you to keep the Celestial law of God while in the land of Zion.
 +
 +
Be humble, be watchful, be prayerful. Beware of pride, lest you fall like others. We do not make these remarks for compliment sake, we feel what we say. Kirtland is and will be scourged, to fulfill revelation and prophesy; it is all right, the hand of God is in it. God's work will not stop. He will work for and with his Saints. God will redeem Jacob. God will build up Zion. The Lord will establish Jerusalem. And O ye judges in Zion! that God may bestow wisdom and salvation upon you, is the prayer of
 +
 +
    WILFORD WOODRUFF,
 +
    JAMES TOWNSEND, &
 +
    JOSEPH BALL.
 +
{{parabreak}}
 +
BROTHER W. WOODRUFF,
 +
  Sir, your letter of the 9th of March, directed to Bishop Partridge, Presidents Joseph Smith jr. Sidney Rigdon, Hyrum Smith, and the Saints in Zion, came safely to them, some days since. And on account of the press of business now on their hands and the request of J. Smith, Jr., I have taken it upon me to answer it.
 +
 +
You say that you have heard of the deplorable state of things in Kirtland; and it gave me much joy to learn by your letter, that you received those things in their true light. Great has been the afflictions of the Saints in that place, particularly our beloved brethren Joseph Smith Jr. and Sidney Rigdon.
 +
 +
In the past summer, I journeyed from this place, in company with Wm. Smith and D. W. Patten, to Kirtland, for the purpose of meeting in Conference there, with the twelve. On our arrival, we soon learned the difficulties that then existed there; these, however, were all apparently settled previous to my leaving Kirtland: And W. Parrish, who has since become an unbeliever in revealed religion, affected to repent and become satisfied with Br. Joseph and the church. Others also did the same: — But this settlement was not of long duration. Soon after this, President Hyrum Smith and myself left Kirtland for the upper Missouri; and President Joseph Smith, President S. Rigdon, and Wm. Smith, soon followed us to Far West: and during their absence, it seems that Parrish, J. F. Boynton, Luke Johnson, Joseph Coe, and some others, united together for the overthrow of the church. President Smith,
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Revision as of 14:18, 26 November 2012

←Number 2 Elder's Journal
3, Number 3 		Number 4→
Source document in online archive: Elder's Journal Vol. 1



33


ELDER'S JOURNAL
OF THE CHURCH OF LATTER DAY SAINTS
Volume I. No. 3.] FAR WEST, MISSOURI, JULY, 1838. [Whole No. 3.

Far West, May, 1838. Notwithstanding all the efforts of the enemies to the truth, both from without and within, to the contrary, we are enabled to present this Journal, to the patrons, with the prospect of being able to continue it in time to come, without interruption.

Great have been the exertions of the opposers to righteousness, to prevent us from sending abroad the doctrines of the church to the world; every effort has been used by the combined influence of all classes of enemies, and of all sects and parties of religion; and of those who are opposed to it in all its forms to prevent it.

It is indeed somewhat unexpected to us, to be able to commence printing the Journal again so soon; but the general interest felt in it by the Saints in general soon, in a degree, repaired the loss which was suffered in the burning of the press in Kirtland; and another establishment by the exertions of the Saints in Far West, has been obtained, sufficiently large to print the Journal; and soon will be greatly enlarged, so as to do all the printing necessary for the whole church.

We have no doubt, but liberal minded men will continue to aid with their means so that the establishment will be sufficiently supplied with means to make the largest of the kind, anywhere in the region of country where it is located.

In this place, the church is as pleasantly situated as could be expected, taking into consideration their circumstances, as the settlement here is but about eighteen months old, and the first settlers had been driven from their homes and all their property destroyed, and had to come here without anything. — But to their honor it may be said, that few people on earth have endured the same degree of persecution, with the same patience.

Nothing discouraged by the great afflictions and tribulations which they have had to endure for Christ's sake. They united with all their powers, to turn a solitary place into a fruitful field — we do not say a wilderness, for there is not a sufficiency of timber to make it a wilderness — and have exceeded the highest expectations of the most enthusiastic.

Large bodies of land have been, and are now putting under cultivation.

We might venture an assertion on this point, and that without the fear of contradiction by those who are acquainted with the settlements in this vicinity, and that is, no part of the world can produce a superior to Caldwell County, if an equal. Eighteen months since without scarcely an inhabitant; at this time the City of "Far West," the county seat, has one hundred and fifty houses, and almost the whole county is taken up, or all that part of it, which can be conveniently settled for want of timber; and large bodies of it are now under cultivation.

An enconium [economy] too high, cannot be placed upon the heads of the enterprising and industrious habits of the people of this county. They are fast making for themselves and their posterity after them as beautiful, interesting, and as profitable homes as can be in any country.

In a very few years and it will be said with propriety, "that the solitary place has become glad for them," and we can say, that no people will be as glad for it.

The town "Far West" is situated in Caldwell county Missouri, in the midst of a prairie of very rich soil. It is an elevated piece of land, and has a commanding view of the surrounding country for many miles, in every direction. On the north, about one mile, passes Shoal Creek, a heavy stream which has many water privileges on it. On the south, a little more than half a mile, runs Goose Creek, a tributary of Shoal. It also is large enough to admit of water-works.

To all appearance the country is healthy, and the farming interest is equal to that in any part of the world; and the means of living are very easily obtained, not even luxuries excepted.

From this to the territorial line on the north, is from eighty to one hundred miles and to the line on the west, twenty five or upwards, or what was the territorial line before the purchase


34


of what is called the Platt and Nodawa countries, or rather Notawa, which signifies rattle snake.

It will be seen by this, that this town is situated in the northern corner of the state of Missouri, in the 40th deg. of north latitude. The land is rolling and generally dry; at least there are no more wet lands than are necessary for grazing purposes, when the country becomes all subdued.

The Saints here are at perfect peace with all the surrounding inhabitants, and persecution is not so much as once named among them; every man can attend to business without fear or excitement, or being molested in any wise. There are many of the inhabitants of this town, who own lands in the vicinity, and are at this time busily engaged in cultivating them. Hundreds of acres of corn have been planted already, in our immediate neighborhood; and hundreds of acres more are now being planted. (This is the fourth day of May).

The crops of wheat are very promising, and the prospect is that we will have an abundant harvest. The vast quantities of provision purchased, in this upper country by the United States, for the use of the Garrison, and also for the Indians have made all kinds of provision dear, and somewhat scarce. Corn is fifty cents per bushel; wheat one dollar; pork from eight, to ten dollars per cwt.; and all kinds of provision on a par with these.

Perhaps it might be thought by some necessary, that we should say something about the affairs of Kirtland. — The burning of the printing office here &c. But it is now, as in former days. In former days the destroyers of the Saints' property were of the baser sort of mankind, even so it is now. And as the Saints in former days considered a formal notice of them, beneath both their character and standing, so do the Saints in like manner now. Only say as they did; "That a gang of the baser sort burned and wasted our property to the utmost of their power" regardless of law, justice, or humanity, and were upheld in their wickedness, by those who were like the high priest in Paul's day, who though, he sat to judge after the law, commanded Paul to be smitten contrary to law. So it was not our persecutors in the east: for notwithstanding they sat to judge after the law, yet commanded they our property to be destroyed contrary to law.

And as Paul and Barnabas did at Iconium. So did we at Kirtland. — "When there was an assault made, both of the Gentiles, and also of the Jews, with their rulers, to use them despitefully, and to stone them. They were ware [aware] of it, and fled into Lystria and Derbe, cities of Lyconia, and unto the region that lieth round about. And there they preached the gospel."

So we did in like manner, taking them for our example. When there was an assault being made, of liars, thieves, and religionists, with their rulers all combined, we were aware of it, and fled to "Far West," and are here preaching the gospel whereunto we are called by the power of God. Let so much suffice for Kirtland.

We have the gratification of saying to the Elders abroad, that we hope to be able to furnish the Journal regularly, from hence forth, as long as it may be thought wisdom to continue it. And we hope on their part, they will use all their exertions to give it circulation.

The enemies have made so many attempts to destroy us, and always failed, that we now just laugh at them for fools, as the God of heaven said he would at their calamity. PROSPECTUS FOR THE ELDERS' JOURNAL. OF THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST, OF LATTER DAY SAINTS.

It is, we presume, generally known, that this paper was commenced in Kirtland, Ohio, in October last; but by reason of the great persecution against the Saints in that place, the paper had to be stopped; and through the craft of wicked men they got possession of the printing office, and knowing they could not hold it, it was burned. The paper is now about to be resuscitated in this place, to be conducted as set forth in the former prospectus. It will be issued in a few weeks, and sent to the former subscribers, as previously stated. We send this prospectus to arouse the Saints to energy in obtaining subscribers. — We hope the Elders abroad, will not fail to use their influence to give as general a circulation as possible. The JOURNAL will be Edited by Joseph Smith jr., and Published by Thomas B. Marsh, at Far West, Caldwell County Missouri. Terms -- One dollar, per annum, paid in advance. All letters must be Post Paid, and directed to the Publisher. Far West, Mo. April 26, 1838.


35


Vinalhaven, Fox Islands, Me. March 9th, 1838. BISHOP EDWARD PARTRIDGE, AND PRESIDENTS JOSEPH SMITH JR., SIDNEY RIGDON, HYRUM SMITH, and THE SAINTS IN ZION, GREETING:

Dear friends in the new and everlasting covenant;

I, Wilford Woodruff, sit down to inform you that I have just heard correctly of the deplorable state of things in Kirtland, and I have this day held a council with Elders J. Ball and J. Townsend, who are now with me upon these Islands, and we resolved to address a few lines to you concerning our feelings, and set before you a brief account of things with us, and the course we intend to pursue. I have labored principally alone upon these Islands, since Elder Hale left last fall, and the work of the Lord has prospered in my hands, or in other words, the Lord has worked with me during the winter. Elder Joseph Ball has been with me for a number of weeks past upon the Islands. There is rising of 40 members in the church on these Islands, and they are strong in the faith. I returned last evening from a mission in company with Elder James Townsend. We have been visiting the most notable cities and vilages [villages] in the eastern country, and delivering unto them the word of God.

We preached in their City Halls, Chapels, School houses, dwellings &c., in such places as Camden, Belfast, Northport, Frankfort, Hampden and the City of Bangor. Doors were open in all of these places, and many others I might mention, and the people heard with profound attention; and many are believing. I never saw more doors open for doing good than at the present time in the State of Maine: But the Devil is stirred up against me here on the Island.

One Methodist priest has applied several times for a warrant to take me, but the Officers, as yet, will not grant him any, for he cannot bring any accusation against me in truth or justice.

The most trouble I now have is the stopping the papers. I have forwarded about 30 subscribers with the money, and now the press is burnt down, and our enemies roar in the midst of the congregations, and they set up these ensigns for signs.

I expect the report of these things will come like a clap of thunder in the ears of the Saints upon these Islands and else where. They do not know it yet, but are wondering why these papers do not come. We have appointed a time to meet the church, and we shall lay all these things before them, and trust in God for wisdom to direct us. The Elders that are with me are expecting to go to their homes, and I shall be left to fight the battles alone. Brethren, pray for me out of Zion, for I have a load to bear; but in the name of Elijah's God, I am determined to stand at my post. I feel as though the time of Jacob's trouble had begun, but I know God will deliver him out of it and fulfil [fulfill] his word.

We are advising the Saints of God to go from this country to Zion, as soon as they can. I suppose this is right; many are preparing to go the following season.

Now we say to the Presidency of the church in Zion, we do not expect to counsel you, nor anyone there. Let God be your counselors. But we ask, can it not be consistent with the will of God and your feelings and circumstances, to soon publish the Elders' Journal from Zion, that we may have one weapon, to cut away some of the deep gloom, that will be cast upon the minds of thousands of the Saints, by wicked men and devils, and false brethren. The traveling Elders feel the wait of these things, equally, if not more than those who are in Zion; for we are naked targets to the press and tongue, as we pass through the midst of the Gentiles. O my God! have mercy and support us, I pray, through the toils that are to come, that our garments may be washed white in the blood of the Lamb! For it is through tribulation that we inherit the blessing and overcome.

Could the Elders' Journal be continued, it would be great relief to the feelings of all the faithful; for while our enemies are publishing against us, even in Kirtland, we should also know what God is doing for his Saints.

Brethren, we pray you to consider this last clause, not for our sake alone, but for the sake of all the faithful that are scattered abroad. We do not make these remarks because we have any lack of confidence in you. — No, God forbid, we believe you have done, and will do all that lies in your power for


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the salvation of Israel; and for one, I pray God to take away my life, sooner than to suffer me to turn my back upon the faithful part of the Church of Latter Day Saints, and Joseph whom God hath chosen to lead his people. O my soul mourns over the corruptions of the hearts of men! O how man will stumble in dark places, when he neglects prayer and departs from his God! O ye Saints of Zion, watch and pray and keep the Celestial law which is safe!

That you may know the feelings of the undersigners of this page, we say to you before God, that we are in full fellowship with Joseph Smith, jr. and the first Presidency of the church, and with all who still adhere to, and receive their teachings and instructions; and we say, in the name of Jesus Christ, that we will uphold such by our prayers, faith, and influence, at the risk of our fortunes, lives and worldly honor. "For life is but a name, when virtue and truth is gone."

We further believe that judgment awaits the world speedily, Kirtland not excepted, and we do believe that those who have dissented from the body of the church will have cause to lament for their folly. We ask in the name of reason and revelation, who has power to take from Joseph the keys delivered to him by the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and deprive him of the work that God has said he should perform? We answer, none but God alone. We believe the book of Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants, speaks too loud upon the subject, to fall unfulfilled and to be made void, by those who have neglected prayer and departed from the living God, and sought to take honor unto themselves. O ye Saints of God in Zion! we entreat you to uphold Joseph by prayer, faith, brotherly love, and charity; for we testify, in the spirit of God, that he will be brought off conqueror, and his enemies put to shame.

Do you remember his toils and labors for your salvation? Nothing but a God has supported him to the present day. His perils are great, and the greatest are among false brethren; and we do entreat the Saints in Zion not to add to his wounds, by following the example of many in Kirtland. Bear with us, ye Saints of God, while we exhort you to keep the Celestial law of God while in the land of Zion.

Be humble, be watchful, be prayerful. Beware of pride, lest you fall like others. We do not make these remarks for compliment sake, we feel what we say. Kirtland is and will be scourged, to fulfill revelation and prophesy; it is all right, the hand of God is in it. God's work will not stop. He will work for and with his Saints. God will redeem Jacob. God will build up Zion. The Lord will establish Jerusalem. And O ye judges in Zion! that God may bestow wisdom and salvation upon you, is the prayer of 

   WILFORD WOODRUFF,
   JAMES TOWNSEND, &
   JOSEPH BALL.
∗       ∗       ∗

BROTHER W. WOODRUFF, 

  Sir, your letter of the 9th of March, directed to Bishop Partridge, Presidents Joseph Smith jr. Sidney Rigdon, Hyrum Smith, and the Saints in Zion, came safely to them, some days since. And on account of the press of business now on their hands and the request of J. Smith, Jr., I have taken it upon me to answer it.

You say that you have heard of the deplorable state of things in Kirtland; and it gave me much joy to learn by your letter, that you received those things in their true light. Great has been the afflictions of the Saints in that place, particularly our beloved brethren Joseph Smith Jr. and Sidney Rigdon.

In the past summer, I journeyed from this place, in company with Wm. Smith and D. W. Patten, to Kirtland, for the purpose of meeting in Conference there, with the twelve. On our arrival, we soon learned the difficulties that then existed there; these, however, were all apparently settled previous to my leaving Kirtland: And W. Parrish, who has since become an unbeliever in revealed religion, affected to repent and become satisfied with Br. Joseph and the church. Others also did the same: — But this settlement was not of long duration. Soon after this, President Hyrum Smith and myself left Kirtland for the upper Missouri; and President Joseph Smith, President S. Rigdon, and Wm. Smith, soon followed us to Far West: and during their absence, it seems that Parrish, J. F. Boynton, Luke Johnson, Joseph Coe, and some others, united together for the overthrow of the church. President Smith,


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