Difference between revisions of "Times and Seasons/3/4"

(Created page with "{{FairMormon}} {{H1 |L=Times and Seasons/3/4 |H=Times and Seasons: Volume 3, Number 4 |S= Category:Primary sourcesSource document in ''Mormon Publications: 19th and 20th...")
 
Line 25: Line 25:
 
| [Whole No. 40.
 
| [Whole No. 40.
 
|}
 
|}
 +
 +
TIMES AND SEASONS
 +
 +
CITY OF NAUVOO
 +
 +
WEDNESDAY DEC. 15, 1841.
 +
 +
Terms-$2,00 per annum, in advance.
 +
 +
All orders for this paper must be accompanied by the MONEY, and post paid, to insure attention; and at the expiration of the time paid for, the paper or papers will be stopped, unless the subscription is renewed.
 +
 +
A Post-Master may enclose money in a letter to a publisher of a newspaper to pay the subscription of a third person, and frank the letter, if written by himself.-POST-MASTER GENERAL.
 +
 +
Letter From P. P. Pratt.
 +
 +
Manchester, Aug. 12, 1841
 +
 +
To the Authorities and Members of the church of the saints in Nauvoo and vicinity, and to my old friends and associates in the kingdom of Jesus Christ:-Greeting:-
 +
 +
Dearly beloved,
 +
 +
It seemeth good unto me after an absence of two years, to stir up my own memory and yours, by addressing a few lines to you as a token of our mutual love, and of my lasting remembrance and respect. How often while surrounded with the objects of a foreign land and engaged in the busy scenes of life, surrounded with myriads of smiling and friendly faces, I call to mind the scenes of other days, the friends of my youth, or the companions of the morning of my life. How often I imagine while surveying the countenance of some of my new acquaintance, or gazing upon the congregation of rejoicing hundreds, (who were strangers to me but yesterday, but who are made nigh by the blood of Christ,) that I behold in their features some outlines of those faces which I have beheld in other lands, and with which I have rejoiced amid other scenes. One looks like Newel Knights, another like John Murdock, a third resembles Lyman Wight, and a fourth reminds me of Ezekiel or Hezekiah Peck (of Colesville) a fifth seems to resemble E. Partridge or Isaac Morley; but on a more minute examination, alas! the illusion vanishes as a dream of the morning: it is not the heart or hand of these old friends that I embrace; but some near acquaintance-dear to my heart as a saint; but not endeared by so many kindred scenes of mutual joy and sorrow. Thus, while otherwise happy in the performance of duty, and in the enjoyments of good society I long after my own native country, and the friends of my youth, yea, my bosom yearns, and my heart, as it were, fires within me.
 +
 +
But I must say with the poet:
 +
 +
"Former friends, how oft, I've sought them
 +
 +
Just to cheer the drooping mind;
 +
 +
But they're gone like leaves of autumn
 +
 +
Driven before the dreary wind."
 +
 +
Yes, they are gone, many of them to Eternity-worn out by the rolling wheels of time, and by hardship and exposure, for the cause of truth, or cut down by sudden death as martyrs in the cause of God, they sleep where wo and sorrow can never reach them more, and where oppression can never come. Their spirits mingle in the purer scenes of joys celestial-mid immortal throngs, but this is our sorrow that in this mortal life we shall see their faces no more.
 +
 +
I am now 34 years of age-next year I pass the narrow straight of middle life, the half way house between life's opening and its close. I stand as it were on a pinnacle between two worlds, and hardly know to which I belong-perhaps my old acquaintance are as numerous in heaven as on earth, and I hardly know in the division of my affections, to which I am the most attached.
 +
 +
It is now eleven years since I first embraced the fulness [fullness] of the gospel: three small branches, consisting of about fifty member in all, were then the only people connected as Latter Day Saints. I was one of those who took the first mission to the western states, in which the fulness [fullness] of the gospel was first introduced into Ohio, (commencing at Kirtland,) Indiana, Illinois and Missouri, and into the Indian territory, among the Lamanites.
 +
 +
When countless millions shall throng the courts of the New Jerusalem which is soon to be built in Jackson county, Missouri, upon the consecrated spot, then perhaps it may be remembered that in 1830, in the depth of a howling winte [winter]
 +
 +
{{page break|623}}
 +
 +
________________________________________
 +
 +
 +
 +
five men penetrated Missouri's wilds, and traveled on foot from St. Louis to Independence, Jackson county, wading in snow to the knees the greater part of the way for 300 miles; and all this as may be said, without money or friends, except as they made them. These are the first footsteps ever made in that state by Latter Day Saints-these first placed their feet upon that holy ground, where shall stand the great temple of our God, the resort of the nations, and the joy of the whole earth.
 +
 +
Of those five men, Peter Whitmer is now in his grave, two are turned away from the fellowship of the church, and the other two, F. G. Williams and myself are yet alive, and blessed with the grace of God we are yet counted worthy of a place among you. Thus I find myself a monument of mercy, spared like an oak amid the tempest, and to God be ascribed all the glory; for were it not for his peculiar longsuffering and goodness I might now have been an outcast from the commonwealth of Israel, or cut down by untimely death without beholding in this life the establishment of Zion.
 +
 +
But O! how many scenes of joy and sorrow, of trail and suffering, of meeting and parting, of life and death, have we been called to pass through since that time. How many have been the travels, the toils, the sufferings, the hopes, the fears, the feelings, the disappointments, the blessings, the glories, the signs, the wonders, the deliverences [deliverance's] experienced by the servants of the Most High God. There has the entire church been disinherited, plundered and driven-and their settlements been broken up. Time and again has the deadly weapon been aimed at its leaders, and some of them slain.-All these things have I seen with my eyes-yea they have fallen on my right hand and on my left, wounded, bleeding, dying for the cause of Zion, and yet not a bone of mine has been broken, though part of my blood has been shed; yea prisons, chains, and dungeons have compassed us round about, the cold ground has been our lodging place, and murderers and demons have kept watch over our slumbers, and lulled us to sleep with songs of blasphemy; recounting with horrid triumph their thefts, whoredoms, rapes and murders. Yet out of all these things the Lord has delivered us, and has caused the nations of the proud to tremble before us, and the meek of the earth to hail us as the messengers of salvation.
 +
 +
Two years have scarcely elapsed since I took leave of Nauvoo and of the society of the saints in the west, and never shall I forget the scenes of suffering through which they were then passing; houseless, and pennyless[penniless], dwelling in tents, in wagons, or under the trees; sick and dying. The majority scattered abroad through persecution, and the Nauvoo meeting of a Sabbath, scarcely bringing together one hundred people, and not 30 dwellings in the town.
 +
 +
But what is the astonishing news which now salutes my ears. "Shall the earth bring forth in a day, or shall a nation be born at once, for as soon as Zion travailed she brought forth her children." I am now informed that about 1200 houses are erected in Nauvoo and hundreds more in progress; and that the earth is cultivated for miles in every direction as the garden of Eden, where two years ago all was desolate loneliness, and that the walls of the temple are now erecting.
 +
 +
Dear brethren, while you are prospered by the hand of God in doing so much at home, the same spirit has wrought mightily in us, in lifting an ensign to the nations and a standard to the people far abroad, and the ships of Tarshish are beginning to bring thy sons from afar and thy daughters from the ends of the earth. Already something near one thousand souls have been gathered to Zion from the isles of the sea, and thousands more are preparing to come shortly.
 +
 +
Sept. 12th. Dear brethren, the many duties of life have thus far prevented me from finishing this communication; it is now Sunday morning, and the pleasantest morning I ever saw in England. The sky is clear, the sun bright, the weather warm and pleasant-I take a few moments before going to meeting, to finish this epistle; in a few hours I shall be in the Hall with some five hundred saints and friends, many of whom will never see it again; for on next week Monday, the ship Tyrean will sail from Liverpool for New Orleans with 204 passengers bound for Nauvoo. Near one half of these are from Manchester and vicinity, and are our old friends here; but their places are fast filling up with new converts: thus you see our mission is of a nature calculated to subject us to important changes,
 +
 +
{{page break|624}}
 +
 +
________________________________________
 +
 +
 +
 +
and scenes continually varying. We form society, and break it up, we gather a congregation, and send if off, we increase, and then decrease, we get friends and acquaintance and they vanish away, we form intimacies, and they are broken off; thus it is one continual scene of parting with friends and making more; of breaking off old acquaintance and forming new; all these things are calculated to excite the mind, and to give peculiar feelings, of a mingled nature and not easily described.
 +
 +
Dear brethren, we feel extremely anxious to do something for the temple, but at present the money is all swallowed up in emigration; a few of those who come over in the Tyrean will have a little money, and perhaps they will do some little for the temple; but it will take what they have to provide them a home; indeed many of them will land without a shilling. The distress is such in this country that the saints will go to Zion whether they can carry any thing with them or not. They had rather be slaves in America than to starve in this country. I cannot keep them back,-go they will, and go they must, or perish: many respectable people are seeking a passage with us, who are not saints, as yet.
 +
 +
I have obtained a few dollars for the temple, from two or three individuals, and am in hopes to add something to it, before the sailing of the "Tyrean," and some more before the sailing of the next ship, (in October,) but very few can be found who can spare a sovereign without really distressing themselves. I shall send the mite, for the temple by brother Joseph Fielding who is expecting to take the lead of this company. He will bring it to you in safety if he is spared, and I hope it will be acceptable though small.
 +
 +
I have just heard from Elder Hyde, he was taking passage down the Danube for Constantinople, he is well, and in good spirits.
 +
 +
When I shall see Nauvoo I know not, perhaps it may be many years; but my heart is there, and there my friends and kindred dwell. I must now close: please accept this in token of my lasting rememberance [remembrance], and pray for me-Farewell.
 +
 +
Yours in the bonds
 +
 +
of everlasting freedom,
 +
 +
P. P. PRATT.
 +
 +
BAPTISM FOR THE DEAD.
 +
 +
An Epistle of the Twelve to the Saints of the Last Days.
 +
 +
The building of the Temple of the Lord, in the city of Nauvoo, is occupying the first place in the exertions and prayers of many of the saints at the present time, knowing as they do, that if this building is not completed, speedily, "we shall be rejected as a church with our dead," for the Lord our God hath spoken it; but while many are thus engaged in laboring, and watching and praying for this all important object, there are many, very many more, who do not thus come up to their privilege and their duty in this thing, and in many instances we are confident that their neglect arises from a want of proper understanding of the principles upon which this building is founded, and by which it must be completed.
 +
 +
The children of Israel were commanded to build a house in the land of promise; and so are the saints of the last days, as you will see in the Revelation given to Joseph the Seer, Jan. 19th 1811, wherein those ordinances may be revealed which have been hid for ages, even their anointings and washings and baptisms for the dead; wherein they may meet in solemn assemblies for their memorials, sacrifices, and oracles in their most holy places; and wherein they may receive conversations and statutes, and judgements [judgments]for the beginning of the revelations and foundations of Zion, and the glory and honor and adornment of all her municiples [municipals], through the medium which God hath ordained.
 +
 +
In the same revelation the command is to "all the saints from afar," as well as those already gathered to this place; to arise with one consent and build the Temple; to prepare a place where the Most High may manifest himself to his people. No one is excepted who hath ought in his possession, for what have ye that ye have not received? and I require mine own with usury saith the Lord; so that those who live thousands of miles from this place, come under the same law, and are entitled to the same blessings and privileges as those who have already gathered. But some may say how can this be, I am not there, therefore I cannot meet in the Temple; cannot be baptized in the Font? The command
 +
 +
{{page break|625}}
 +
 +
________________________________________
 +
 +
 +
 +
of heaven is to you, to all, gather: and when you arrive here, if it is found that you have previously sent up of your gold or your silver, or your substance, the tythings [tithing] and consecrations which are required of you, for this building, you will find your names, tithings, and consecrations written in the Book of the Law of the Lord, to be kept in the Temple, as a witness in your favor, showing that you are a proprietor in that building, and are entitled to your share of the privileges thereunto belonging.
 +
 +
One of those privileges which is particularly attracting the notice of the saints at the present moment, is baptism for the dead, &c. in the font, which is so far completed as to be dedicated, and several have already attended to this ordinance by which the sick have been made whole, and the prisoner set free; but while we have been called to administer this ordinance, we have been led to enquire [inquire] into the propriety of baptizing those who have not been obedient, and assisted to build the place for baptism, and it seems to us unreasonable to expect that the Great Jehovah will approbate such an administration; for if the church must be brought under condemnation and rejected with her dead if she fail to build the house, and its appurtenances, why should not individuals of the church, who thus neglect, come under the same condemnation? And if they are to be rejected they may as well be rejected without baptism as with, for their baptism can be of no avail before God, and the time to baptize them may be appropriated to building the walls of the house, and this is according to the understanding which we have received from him who is our spokesman.
 +
 +
Let it not be supposed that the sick and the destitute are to be denied the blessings of the Lord's House; God forbid; his eye is ever upon them for good. He that hath not, and cannot obtain, but saith in his heart if I had, I would give freely, is accepted as freely as he that gives of his abundance. The Temple is to be built by tything [tithing] and consecration, and every one is at liberty to consecrate all they find in their hearts so to do; but the tythings [tithings] required, is one tenth of all any one possessed at the commencement of the building, and one tenth part of all his increase from that time till the completion of the same, whether it be money or whatever he may be blessed with. Many, in this place, are laboring every tenth day for the house, and this is the tything [tithing] of their income, for they have nothing else; others would labor the same but they are sick, therefore, excusable, when they get well let them begin: while there are others who appear to think their own business of more importance than the Lord's: to such we would ask, who gave you your time, health, strength, and put you into business? and will you not begin quickly to return with usury that which you have received? Our God will not wait always.
 +
 +
We would remind some two or three hundred Elders, who offered to go out on missions, some six months, others one year, and some two years, and had their missions assigned them at the general conference to labor on the Temple, that most of their names are still with us, and we wish them to call and take their names away, and give them up to the building committee. Brethren you have as great an interest at stake in this thing as we have, but as our Master, even the Master builder of the Temple, whose throne is on high, has seen fit to constitute us stewards in some parts of his household; we feel it important for us to see to it that our Master is not defrauded, and especially by those who have pledged their word, their time, their talents, to his services; and we hope this gentle hint will suffice, that we may not be compelled to publish the names of those referred to.
 +
 +
Probably some may think they could have gone on a mission but cannot labor as they have no means of boarding themselves, but let such remember that several score of brethren and sisters in this city, offered to the general conference, to board one or more laborers on the Temple till the same should be completed, and but few of those, as yet, have had the opportunity of boarding. To all such we would say you are not forgotten, we have your names, also, and we expect soon to send some one to your table, therefore put your houses in order and never be ready to refuse the first offer of a guest.
 +
 +
Large stores of provisions will be required to complete the work, and now is the time for securing it, while meat is plenty and can be had for one half the value that it can at other seasons of the
 +
 +
{{page break|626}}
 +
 +
________________________________________
 +
 +
 +
 +
year, and the weather is cool and suitable for packing. Let the brethren for two hundred miles around drive their fat cattle and hogs to this place, where they may be preserved, and there will be a supply till another favorable season rolls round, or till the end of the labor.-Now is the time to secure food. Now is the time that the trustee is ready to receive your droves,-Not the maimed, the lean, the halt, and the blind, and such that you cannot use; it is for the Lord, and he wants no such offering: but if you want his blessing give him the best; give him as good as he has given you. Beds and bedding, socks, mittens, shoes, clothing of every description, and store goods are needed for the comfort of the laborers this winter; journeymen stone cutters, quarrymen, teams and teamsters for drawing stone, and all kinds of provision for men and beast, are needed in abundance.
 +
 +
There are individuals who have given nothing as yet, either as tythings [tithings] or consecration, thinking that they shall be able to do a great deal some time hence, if they continue their present income to their own use; but this is a mistaken idea; suppose that all should act upon this principle, no one would do ought at present, consequently the building must cease, and this generation remain without a house, and the church be rejected; then suppose the next generation labor upon the same principle, and the same in all succeeding generations, the Son of God would never have a place on earth to lay his head. Let every individual remember that their tythings [tithings] and consecrations are required from what they have, and not from what they expect to have sometime hence, and are wanted for immediate use.
 +
 +
All money and other property designed for tythings [tithings] and consecrations to the building of the Temple must hereafter be presented to the trustee in trust, President Joseph Smith, and entered at the Recorder's office in the book before referred to; and all receipts now holden by individuals, which they have received of the building committee for property delivered to them, must also be forwarded to the Recorder's office for entry, to secure the appropiation [appropriation] of said property according to the original design.
 +
 +
The Elders every where, will instruct the brethren both in public and in private, in the principles and doctrine set forth in this epistle, so that every individual of the church may have a perfect understanding of his duty and privilege.
 +
 +
BRIGHAM YOUNG,
 +
 +
HEBER C. KIMBALL,
 +
 +
ORSON PRATT,
 +
 +
WILLIAM SMITH,
 +
 +
LYMAN WIGHT,
 +
 +
WILLFORD WOODRUFF,
 +
 +
JOHN TAYLOR,
 +
 +
GEO. A. SMITH,
 +
 +
WILLARD RICHARDS.
 +
 +
Nauvoo, Ill. Dec. 13th, 1841.
 +
 +
From the Gospel Reflector.
 +
 +
CHARITY.
 +
 +
In consequence of our bold testimony and the much plainness and simplicity which we use in describing the apostacy [apostasy] of the church, we are often accused of not having charity for all people who profess to worship God according to the various systems of religion that are extant.
 +
 +
Therefore I think it necessary to insert a few remarks upon this subject, and set forth in plain terms some of the apostles' ideas of true charity. Some have supposed that it is impossible for us to be actuated by true charity, when we are so particular in describing the awful condition of apostacy [apostasy], that so many of the human family are in; and also when we contend that there cannot be but one right way to serve God, or in other words but one plan of salvation. Some say they have charity for all. Very good; but does true charity lead any person to believe that the doctrines of all societies are right, or that there is more than one true plan of salvation. The apostle Paul has given the following description of charity. "Though I speak with the tongues of men and angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked,
 +
 +
{{page break|627}}
 +
 +
________________________________________
 +
 +
 +
 +
thinketh no evil; rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things."-1 Cor. xiii chapter. From the above we learn that charity rejoiceth not in false doctrines, but rejoiceth in the true doctrine of Christ-"Charity rejoiceth not in iniquity," &c. We will now examine this subject and see whether or not the scriptures teach more than one true gospel. Paul says, "Though we or an angel from heaven preach any other gospel unto you, than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed." Gal. i. 8. Here we see that the apostle has denounced a curse upon any individual who should be so presumptous [presumptuous] as to preach any other gospel than the gospel of Christ. Certainly no other gospel than the one the apostles preached, and the ancient saints obeyed, is the power of God unto salvation; and the curse of God inevitably will follow any person who deviates from it in his teaching. Christ said, "Verily, verily I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way the same is a thief and a robber."-John x. 1. Now it is plain that there is but one entrance into the kingdom of God: all other pretended entrances are the works of men who try to climb up some other way. How many doctrines did Christ acknowledge to be true? I answer, only one, and that was the one that the apostles preached; and pronounced a curse upon all who should preach a different one. But says one, those Christian societies that call themselves orthodox, only differ in nonessential points. I reply the scripture says nothing about nonessential points of the doctrine of Christ. The gospel is a perfect law of liberty, because a perfect being devised it, and if it is changed in the least, it is rendered imperfect. For this reason I conclude that it is the very height of folly, to believe there can be more than one true order of the gospel. And a man must be obedient to every principle of it, or it can not be said in truth that he is obedient to the gospel of Christ. But to proceed.
 +
 +
Charity in the full sense of the word is the love of God shed abroad in the hearts of the people of God; love towards your neighbors; assistance and friendship in the time of distress and danger. For instance we see a person in danger, and he ignorant of it, it would not be charity in us to flatter him in his dangerous condition, and thus expose him to more danger, or in other words, if any person is deceived, and is in a dangerous condition, and we know his condition to be an awful one; it is charity in us, not only that, but is our duty to warn him of his danger and entreat him to forsake the evil way, instead of acknowledging his delusion to be good, and thus flatter him in wickedness.
 +
 +
Now let us examine the charity that Christ had for the Jews.
 +
 +
At the time he made his appearance among them, they were divided into sects and parties, and had broken the covenant the Lord had made with their fathers while in the wilderness. Notwithstanding, the Mosaic law was given by divine direction, and the children of Israel blessed when they performed all the ordinances of that law, yet the Jews had made it void through the tradition of their elders, and imbibed erroneous opinions, grieved the spirit of God, apostatized, and were fit subjects to reject the Messiah. Christ said to the Pharisees and Sadducees, &c., "But woe unto you Scribes and Pharisees hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men; for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in: for ye are like unto whited sepulchres [sepulchers], which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones and all uncleanness. Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell?" (See Math. xxiii chapter.) The Scribes, Pharisees and Sadducees at this time professed to be Moses' disciples and to worship God according to the law. Christ commanded his apostles saying "go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature, and he that believeth, and is baptized shall be saved and he that believeth not shall be damned." From the above we learn that with all the religions that the human family professed, that they all had to come to the standard of Christ, and comply with the requisitions of the gospel, or be damned; none were exempt from this command. Furthermore, Christ said to the Pharisees, "you are of your father the devil and his works ye will do: for he was a liar from the beginning." Paul said, "O child of the devil," &c. No person who believes
 +
 +
{{page break|628}}
 +
 +
________________________________________
 +
 +
 +
 +
the bible doubts but what Christ and the apostles were actuated by true charity, when they described the wickedness of the above mentioned people, notwithstanding the boldness of their testimony, and plainness of their assertions.
 +
 +
Now if Christ and the apostles had the same kind of charity that the people want us to have, they would have said to the Pharisees, Sadducees, Scribes, Alexandrians, Syrenians, &c., go on, you are doing well; this difference of opinion is only of minor consequence. And if they had thus flattered them, what would have been the consequence? Would it not have involved them deeper in sin and iniquity, and caused them to drink a greater draft of the intoxicating spirit of delusion, and encouraged them in their works of darkness? Let the reader answer this question for himself. It certainly was pure charity that inspired Christ and his apostles to reprove the world for their sins, and corruptions; and why should it be considered an uncharitable act in the Latter-Day Saints to do the same, providing the world are in similar circumstances. Indeed, the Jews were in a state of apostacy [apostasy] when Christ came, and they were all commanded to bow to his sceptre [scepter], and obey his gospel and no other way, plan, gospel, or system of religion would save them from the consequences of their sins.
 +
 +
Now if the Christian world in general are in a state of apostacy [apostasy], which by the by, we have already proved, as will be seen in the first number of this work, and we have knowledge of it, or in other words a knowledge of the predictions of the prophets and apostles, on this subject: if we have charity for them, we will warn them of these things: "Knowing the terror of the Lord," says the apostle, "we persuade men." Therefore, knowing the apostacy [apostasy] of many who profess Christianity and the awful consequences except they repent, and that Christ will come in the clouds of heaven, and with a flame of fire to take vengeance on them who know not God, and obey not the gospel of Christ; charity prompts us to lift up our voices, and proclaim repentance, and the necessity of obedience to the commands of God. Again, the apostle says as we have before quoted: "Though I have the gift of prophecy and understand all mysteries, and have not charity I am nothing." No one who believes the bible doubts but what Christ and the apostles were influenced by a philanthropic spirit, or charity, when they prophecied [prophesied] to the Jews their destruction. But we would naturally infer from the above quotation, that it is possible for a man to have the spirit of prophecy, or a knowledge of future events, and yet be in a degree destitute of charity. With the spirit of prophecy, or knowledge that Christ had of the destruction that was coming upon the Jews, if he had remained in silence, would he have showed that he had charity for them. Certainly not. The circumstance of Jonah disobeying the command of God and taking a passage on board the ship for Tarsish, instead of going to Ninevah, is a remarkable instance of this kind. The Lord by the spirit of prophecy discovered to Jonah the great wickedness of the inhabitants of that city and the awful destruction that he had resolved to bring upon them, if they would not repent. Now Jonah having a knowledge of these things, also the pride and haughtiness of the Ninevites, concluded that if he testified these things to them it would cross them in their feelings and the finger of scorn would be pointed at him and he would have to suffer much in order to accomplish this work. Therefore he determined in his own mind (no doubt) not to go to Ninevah, but let them dwell in ignorance, and the destruction overtake them unawares. Thus we see that with all the knowledge he had of the destruction that would have come upon Ninevah had it not been for repentance, he was destitute of charity and turned from the path of duty.
 +
 +
Now if we have a knowledge of the second coming of Christ, and the terrible destructions that will come upon the wicked at the time, or those who are not prepared to meet him, shall we hold our peace, and make no exertion to reclaim them, that they may meet the Lord with joy, and not with grief? Furthermore, it would be an act of injustice to destroy a people, without first giving them a fair warning of it. The prophets, Christ, and the apostles, have predicted the following concerning the destruction of the last days, at, or previous to the coming of Christ, "Out of Zion the perfection of beauty, God hath shined. Our God shall come, and shall not keep silence; a fire shall devour before him, and it shall be
 +
 +
{{page break|629}}
 +
 +
________________________________________
 +
 +
 +
 +
very tempestuous round about him. He shall call to the heavens from above, and to the earth, (that he may judge his people") Ps. L. 2-4. Christ speaking of his second coming said: "But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. But as the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the son of man be. For as in the days that were before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day Noah entered into the ark, and knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be." Math. xxiv. 36-39. "But of the time and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly, that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say peace and safety, sudden destruction cometh upon them, * * and they shall not escape. But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness." I Thess. v. 1-5. Now from the above predictions we learn that the Lord has decreed a destruction upon the human family, and that the Lord Jesus is coming, and will overtake them as a thief in the night. And shall we remain in silence? no! we will testify these things, that the honest in heart may arouse from their slumbers, and prepare themselves to meet the awful day. If we have a knowledge of these things, and make no exertion to rescue others from the impending destruction, we will incur the displeasure of the Lord like Jonah. Charity inspires us to proclaim the truth, regardless of private feelings or men's opinions, that the Lord's people may be called out of Babylon, or from the midst or confusion, that they partake not of her sins, and receive not of her plagues, for her sins and iniquities have reached to heaven, and her judgments slumber not, (see Rev. xviii. 4, 5.) "For do I not persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men I should not be servant of Christ."-Gal. i. 10.
 +
 +
TIMES AND SEASONS,
 +
 +
CITY OF NAUVOO,
 +
 +
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 15, 1841.
 +
 +
STEAM MILLS.
 +
 +
We would call the attention of our friends, and more particularly the business men of our city, to the subject of steam mills-We are aware that great and extensive improvements have been made in our town, in a few months past-and we take great pleasure in saying that no city or town in the western country, has surpassed this, in rapidity of growth or increase of wealth-it has in the short space of a little over two years, been changed from a thinly settled neighborhood, of some fifteen or twenty families, into a densely populated city of near ten thousand inhabitants, and its population daily increasing.
 +
 +
To supply the wants of this community, requires a vast quantity of flour, meal, &c. the most of which, is brought from a distance; consequently a large amount of money goes from our midst into the hands of manufactors [manufactories] and dealers, abroad, a thing we should avoid as much as possible, as it is bad policy to depend upon our neighbors for our home consumptions [consumption's], when we have every facility, and ample means for manufacturing them for ourselves.
 +
 +
We have men in our city, of abundant capital to build permanent and extensive steam mills, sufficient to more than supply the wants of our citizens; an object greatly to be desired, as we are credibly informed that the proprietors of one mill in Warsaw, acknowledge the average receipt of fifty dollars per day, from this place; which is not the only mill patronized by our citizens, by any means.
 +
 +
The most of the small towns on the Upper Mississippi, have from one to two and three steam mills, which appear to be doing a good business. Now if those places can support from one to two and three mills, certainly, our city can amply support one. Not only our ability to do, but our wants actually require the services of one, or more, first rate mills, and we hope to see our business men awake on this subject.
 +
 +
UNIVERSITY OF THE CITY OF NAUVOO
 +
 +
BOARD OF REGENTS
 +
 +
Chancellor-John C. Bennett.
 +
 +
Registrar-William Law.
 +
 +
Regents-Joseph Smith, Sidney Rigdon,
 +
 +
{{page break|630}}
 +
 +
________________________________________
 +
 +
 +
 +
Hyrum Smith, Wm. Marks, S. H. Smith, Daniel H. Wells, N. K. Whitney, Charles C. Rich, John T. Barnett, Wilson Law, John P. Green, Vinson Knight, Isaac Galland, Elias Higbee, Robert D. Foster, James Adams, Samuel Bennett, Ebenezer Robinson, John Snider, George Miller, Zenos M. Knight, John Taylor, and H. C. Kimball.
 +
 +
FACULTY.
 +
 +
President-
 +
 +
PROFESSORS.
 +
 +
Mathematics and English Literature-ORSON PRATT.
 +
 +
Languages-ORSON SPENCER.
 +
 +
Rhetoric and Belles Letters-Church History-SIDNEY RIDGON.
 +
 +
School Wardens for Common Schools.
 +
 +
FIRST WARD.
 +
 +
WARDENS-John P. Green, N. K. Whitney, A. Morrison.
 +
 +
SECOND WARD.
 +
 +
WARDENS-Charles C. Rich, Wilson Law, Elias Higbee.
 +
 +
THIRD WARD.
 +
 +
WARDENS-Daniel H. Wells, R. D. Foster, S. Winchester.
 +
 +
FOURTH WARD.
 +
 +
WARDENS-Vinson Knight, William Law, Ebenezer Robinson.
 +
 +
It will be seen that some of the Chairs of the university are yet vacant; the department of Mathematics and English Literature, however, is in successful operation under the supervision of Professor Pratt; and the department of Languages will be opened in a few days under the direction of Professor Spencer. The Chairs which have been filled are occupied by some of the most able men the nation affords in their respective departments.
 +
 +
Professor Pratt is a self-made man, and has had to encounter great difficulties in the acquisition of an education; but he has surmounted them all. As a teacher of Mathematics and English Literature, he is equaled by few, and surpassed by none this side of the great waters; as the proficiency of the matriculates of the university now under his care abundantly testifies.
 +
 +
Professor Spencer is a graduate of Union College, N. Y., in the Arts; and of the Baptist Literary and Theological Seminary, N. Y., in Divinity. He is a ripe scholar, and well fitted for the department to which he has been elected by the Regency.
 +
 +
Professor Rigdon is too well known to require any commendatory article to introduce him to public consideration, and popular favor. He has long been regarded, by both enemies and friends, as an accomplished Belles Letters scholar, and eloquent orator,-deeply learned in that department of collegiate education which has been assigned to him in the university.
 +
 +
The opportunity which thus presents itself to the citizens of this city, and the surrounding country, for acquiring a thorough and useful education, should not be neglected. While this city is lengthening her cords, and strengthening her stakes, and exhibiting such a spectacle of bustle and enterprise as was never before witnessed, it is to be hoped that mental culture will not be passed over as a little thing. Knowledge is power-a finished education always gives an influence in cultivated society, which neither wealth nor station can impart or control: let those, then, who desire to be useful in their day, come forward at once, and matriculate in some department of the university, that mind may grapple with mind in seeking after hidden treasures.
 +
 +
THE CITY COUNCIL.
 +
 +
We would invite the attention of our fellow-citizens to the deliberations of the City Council. That deliberative body convenes at the office of Gen. Hyrum Smith, at 6 o'clock, P. M., on the first, and third, Saturday of every month; and much valuable information is elicited during
 +
 +
{{page break|631}}
 +
 +
________________________________________
 +
 +
 +
 +
the discussions of its important subjects presented for their consideration. The meetings are public, and afford an excellent opportunity, for those who desire it, to acquire an accurate knowledge of our polity, and the nature of our institutions. We hope to see the meetings well attended.
 +
 +
COMMON SCHOOLS.
 +
 +
The School Wardens of the University for Common Schools are desired to organize the schools in their respective wards in conformity to an act of the Regents in relation to that important subject-the Teachers must procure a certificate of competency from the Chancellor and Registrar before they can be recognised [recognized] by the Wardens.
 +
 +
THE N. Y. WEEKLY HERALD.
 +
 +
We are informed that there is to be a public demonstration in favor of that most ably conducted and useful paper, the New York Weekly Herald, by the City Council, at its next meeting. Just as it should be-let true merit be rewarded-honor to whom honor is due.
 +
 +
PROCLAMATION.
 +
 +
The following is inserted as the appendix to the "Book of Doctrine and Covenants" and knowing that it is a good proclamation to all people, we are induced to insert it under this head.
 +
 +
"SECTION C.
 +
 +
"1. Hearken, O ye people of my church, saith the Lord your God, and hear the word of the Lord concerning you; the Lord who shall suddenly come to his temple: the Lord who shall come down upon the world with a curse to judgment; yea, upon all the nations that forget God, and upon all the ungodly among you. For he shall make bare his holy arm in the eyes of all nations, and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of their God. Wherefore, prepare ye, prepare ye, O my people; sanctify yourselves; gather ye together, O ye people of my church, upon the land of Zion, all you that have not been commanded to tarry. Go ye out from Babylon. Be ye clean that bear the vessels of the Lord. Call your solemn assemblies, and speak often one to another.-And let every man call upon the name of the Lord; yea, verily I say unto you, again, the time has come when the voice of the Lord is unto you: Go ye out of Babylon; gather ye out from among the nations, from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.
 +
 +
"2. Send forth the Elders of my church unto the nations which are afar off; unto the islands of the sea; send forth unto foreign lands; call upon all nations; first, upon the Gentiles, and then upon the Jews. And behold and lo, this shall be their cry, and the voice of the Lord unto all people. Go ye forth unto the land of Zion, that the borders of my people may be enlarged, and that her stakes may be strengthened, and that Zion may go forth unto the regions round about: yea, let the cry go forth among all people; Awake and arise and go forth to meet the bridegroom: behold and lo the bridegroom cometh, go ye out to meet him. Prepare yourselves for the great day of the Lord. Let them, therefore, who are among the Gentiles, flee unto Zion. And let them who be of Judah, flee unto Jerusalem, unto the mountains of the Lord's house.-Go ye out from among the nations, even from Babylon, from the midst of wickedness, which is spiritual Babylon. But verily thus saith the Lord, let not your flight be in haste, but let all things be prepared before you: and he that goeth, let him not look back, lest sudden destruction shall come upon him.
 +
 +
"3. Hearken and hear O ye inhabitants of the earth. Listen ye elders of my church together, and hear the voice of the Lord, for he calleth upon all men and he commandeth all men every where to repent: for behold the Lord God hath sent forth the angel, crying through the midst of heaven, saying: Prepare ye the way of the Lord, & make his path straight, for the hour of his coming is nigh, when the Lamb shall stand upon mount Zion, and with him a hundred and forty four thousand, having his Father's name written in their foreheads: wherefore, prepare ye for the coming of the bridegroom: go ye, go ye out to meet him, for behold he shall stand upon the mount of Olivet, and upon the mighty ocean, even the great deep, and upon the islands of the sea, and upon the land of Zion, and he shall utter his voice out of Zion, and he shall speak from Jerusalem, and his voice shall be
 +
 +
{{page break|632}}
 +
 +
________________________________________
 +
 +
 +
 +
heard among all people, and it shall be a voice as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder, which shall break down the mountains, and the valleys shall not be found: he shall command the great deep and it shall be driven back into the north countries, and the islands shall become one land, and the land of Jerusalem and the land of Zion, shall be turned back into their own place, and the earth shall be like as it was in the days before it was divided.-And the Lord even the Saviour [Savior] shall stand in the midst of his people, and shall reign over all flesh. And they who are in the north countries shall come in remembrance before the Lord, and their prophets shall hear his voice, and shall no longer stay themselves, and they shall smite the rocks, and the ice shall flow down at their presence. And an high way shall be cast up in the midst of the great deep. Their enemies shall become a prey unto them, and in the barren deserts there shall come forth pools of living water; and the parched ground shall no longer be a thirsty land. And they shall bring forth their rich treasures unto the children of Ephraim my servants. And the boundaries of the everlasting hills shall tremble at their presence. And then shall they fall down and be crowned with glory, even in Zion, by the hands of the servants of the Lord, even the children of Ephraim, and they shall be filled with songs of everlasting joy. Behold this is the blessing of the everlasting God upon the tribes of Israel, and the richer blessing upon the head of Ephraim and his fellows. And they also of the tribe of Judah, after their pain, shall be sanctified in holiness before the Lord, to dwell in his presence day and night for ever and ever.
 +
 +
"4. And now verily saith the Lord, that these things might be known among you, O inhabitants of the earth, I have sent forth mine angel, flying through the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel, who hath appeared unto some, and hath committed it unto man, who shall appear unto many that dwell on the earth: and this gospel shall be preached unto every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, and the servants of God shall go forth, saying, with a loud voice: Fear God and give glory to him: for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and sea, and the fountain of waters, calling upon the name of the Lord day and night, saying: O that thou wouldst rend the heavens, that thou wouldst come down, that the mountains might flow down at thy presence. And it shall be answered upon their heads, for the presence of the Lord shall be as the melting fire that burneth, and as the fire which causeth the waters to boil. O Lord, thou shalt come down to make thy name known to thine adversaries, and all nations shall tremble at thy presence. When thou doeth terrible things, things they look not for; yea, when thou comest down and the mountains flow down at thy presence, thou shalt meet him who rejoiceth and worketh righteousness, who remember thee in thy ways: for since the beginning of the world have not men heard nor perceived by the ear, neither hath any eye seen, O God, besides thee, how great things thou hast prepared for him that waiteth for thee.
 +
 +
"5. And it shall be said, Who is this that cometh down from God in heaven with dyed garments: yea, from the regions which are not known, clothed in his glorious apparrel [apparel], travelling [traveling] in the greatness of his strength? And he shall say I am he who spake in righteousness, mighty to save. And the Lord shall be red in his apparrel [apparel], and his garments like him that treadeth in the wine-vat, and so great shall be the glory of his presence, that the sun shall hide his face in shame; and the moon shall withhold its light; and the stars shall be hurled from their places: and his voice shall be heard, I have trodden the wine-press alone, and have brought judgment upon all people; and none was with me; and I have trampled them in my fury, and I did tread upon them in mine anger, and their blood have I sprinkled upon my garments, and stained all my raiment: for this was the day of vengeance which was in my heart. And now the year of my redeemed is come, and they shall mention the loving kindness of their Lord, and all that he has bestowed upon them, according to his goodness, and according to his loving kindness, for ever and ever. In all their afflictions he was afflicted. And the angel of his presence saved them; and in his love, and in his pity, he redeemed them, and bare them, and carried them all the days of old; yea, and Enoch also, and they who were with him; the prophets who were before him, and Noah also, and they who
 +
 +
{{page break|633}}
 +
 +
________________________________________
 +
 +
 +
 +
were before him, and Moses also, and they who were before him, and from Moses to Elijah, and from Elijah to John, who were with Christ in his resurrection, and the holy apostles, with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, shall be in the presence of the Lamb. And the graves of the saints shall be opened, and they shall come forth and stand on the right hand of the Lamb, when he shall stand upon mount Zion, and upon the holy city, the New Jerusalem, and they shall sing the song of the Lamb day and night for ever and ever.
 +
 +
"6. And for this cause, that men might be made partakers of the glories which were to be revealed, the Lord sent forth the fulness [fullness] of his gospel, his everlasting covenant, reasoning in plainness, and simplicity, to prepare the weak for those things which are coming on the earth; and for the Lord's errand in the day when the weak should confound the wise, and the little one become a strong nation, and two should put their tens of thousands to flight; and by the weak things of the earth, the Lord should thresh the nations by the power of his Spirit. And for this cause these commandments were given; they were commanded to be kept from the world in the day that they were given, but now are to go forth unto all flesh.-And this according to the mind and will of the Lord, who ruleth over all flesh; and unto him that repenteth and sanctifieth himself before the Lord, shall be given eternal life. And upon them that hearken not to the voice of the Lord, shall be fulfilled that which was written by the prophet Moses, that they should be cut off from among the people.
 +
 +
"7. And also that which was written by the prophet Malachi: For behold the day cometh that shall burn as an oven, and all the proud; yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble: and the day that cometh shall burn them up saith the Lord of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch. Wherefore this shall be the answer of the Lord unto them: In that day when I came unto my own, no man among you received me, and you were driven out. When I called again, there was none of you to answer, yet my arm was not shortened at all, that I could not redeem, neither my power to deliver. Behold at my rebuke I dry up the sea. I make rivers a wilderness: their fish stinketh, and dieth for thirst. I clothe the heavens with blackness, and make sackcloth their covering. And this shall ye have of my hand, ye shall lay down in sorrow.
 +
 +
"8. Behold and lo there came none to deliver you, for ye obeyed not my voice when I called to you out of the heavens, ye believed not my servants; and when they were sent unto you ye received them not: wherefore they sealed up the testimony and bound up the law, and ye were delivered over unto darkness: these shall go away into outer darkness, where there is weeping, and wailing and gnashing of teeth. Behold the Lord your God hath spoken it. Amen"
 +
 +
From the Millennial Star.
 +
 +
Douglas, Isle of Man, May 26th, 1841.
 +
 +
Dear Brother,
 +
 +
I feel a desire to express to you the joy of my heart, as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I have been here five or six weeks. The soil of this land is not good, either in a temporal or a spiritual sense. All the excitement has been raised here that could be raised, and although the whole land is but small, (about thirty miles in length and twelve in breadth) it appears as though all the lies and slander have been imported here that have ever been coined, beside all that have been coined here at home. The parsons try to make the people believe that we want their money, and that we only want those who have it. You know it is natural to men to look most after that which they value most, so they are fearful we shall get some of it. Mr. Haining says we are expecting to be saved by faith and obedience! and that we believe in dreams, &c., which he says, are very dangerous, as he cannot tell which are from the Lord and which from the devil. I suppose there are many more in the same case, so perhaps it would be best for the Lord not to give any more dreams or visions. Don't you see what singular characters we are? What a strange thing for ministers to love money! Did you ever hear such a thing? And then to think of being saved by faith and obedience! and again-a very worthy man, who doubtless is without fault, or he would not cast a stone, makes us say, we neither toil nor spin! but live by taking sinners in. Did you ever see the like that ministers live
 +
 +
{{page break|634}}
 +
 +
________________________________________
 +
 +
 +
 +
without spining [spinning]! or even toiling? If this be so, how is it that you have not let me know how you do it, but let me toil as I have done since I left my farm and comfortable home in Canada, near four years. I have not learned to spin, but I have, I suppose, walked some thousands of miles, chiefly with an empty pocket (but I don't wish to complain, or else I would say, at some times not a very full stomach,) and I really thought my brethren did the same. You will perhaps let me into the secret, for I want to return to America soon, and how am I to get there? When you find out the treasurer of your funds I may get something perhaps; however we ought not to be idle while all the rest of the miniters [ministers] are toiling and spinning so busily, neither ought we to complain at what we get; for there is one gentleman on this island, who, with all his toiling and spinning has only £8,000 or £9,000 a year to live on, and some, I suppose, not as many hundreds, so I'll try to be content.
 +
 +
But you may think this is a strange way of expressing the joy of my heart. Well I will tell you then, I am on a barren spot; the enemies are all hoping to see the cause fail; the devil is hard against us, and, you say, "the line of battle is extending far and wide over the plains of Babel," which I fully believe. I see the hosts of earth and the hosts of hell all combined together to fight against the Lord and his anointed. The skirmishes which you have passed through are but as drops before a thunder storm; and universal war is proclaimed by the Majesty of heaven against the great usurper, and the earth is again to be stained with the blood of the saints before the final blow can be struck by the arm of Omnipotence, and that we are to have a time of trouble such as the world has not seen; I look upon all this with a firm countenance, and rejoice, knowing that the truth will prevail, and that the victory will be ours. The captain of our salvation inspires my heart with a martial spirit, and I feel to glory in the cause. I would not hurt any one, not even the devil, but I am at honorable war with him; if he can take the kingdom, or if he can take the little stone and throw it beyond the bounds of time and space, he may, but if we take him a prisoner of war, he shall be cast into prison in the name of Jesus Christ-Amen.
 +
 +
JOSEPH FIELDING.
 +
 +
From the Millennial Star.
 +
 +
Manchester, Sept. 10th, 1841.
 +
 +
THE WAR IN CHINA.
 +
 +
It appears that the war in China is about to be renewed with redoubled vigor. The English have fitted out a new expidition [expedition] to proceed against her with the utmost rigor, and his Celestial Majesty, on the other hand, has issued orders for the raising of a "grand army," and the extermination of the English.
 +
 +
It seems very probable that this matter will finally result in a revolution of men and things in that quarter of the world, which will pave the way for free intercourse with the unnumbered millions, who, with their forefathers, have, for thousands of years, been secluded from the rest of the world, from all or most of the improvements of modern science, as well as from the glorious light and blessings of the gospel.
 +
 +
Who knows but five or ten years will open, as it were, a new world-a new field of enterprise for the research of antiquarians, geographers, and historians-a new vineyard or harvest for the missionaries of the fulness [fullness]of the gospel, and awake four hundred millions, (or near one half of the inhabitants of the globe,) from the stupidity of their long long midnight slumbers, to a realising [realizing] sense of things which pertain to the latter day glory, and to the immediate and everlasting welfare of themselves and all mankind. Should this be the result of present movements, it may be considered as a new era in the history of the world, and a sure and certain prelude to the approaching day of the Lord, which may God grant for Christ's sake. Amen.
 +
 +
It will be seen from our extracts from the Nauvoo news in this number, that the saints in America are alive to the interests of the kingdom of God, and are prospering in all things pertaining to the great work of the last days, in a manner which cannot fail to afford unspeakable joy to the hearts of the friends of Zion, who are yet scattered in distant countries.
 +
 +
We feel to say to our brethren in Zion, "Go-a-head in all things pertaining to the establishing of the church and
 +
 +
{{page break|635}}
 +
 +
________________________________________
 +
 +
 +
 +
kingdom of God on earth, and here is our heart and hand, though distant in body, yet present in spirit, joying and beholding your order."
 +
 +
We long to see the time when we shall again behold you in the flesh, in the midst of rejoicing millions, and in the full enjoyment of liberty and light, both in Missouri and in all the states and territories where Jehovah may see fit to establish his people.
 +
 +
The same spirit which moves upon the saints in Zion to "arise and build" and establish her stakes, and enlarge her borders, is mighty in us to spread the truth among the nations, and to gather the sheep from all the countries where they have been scattered as a prey to false shepherds.
 +
 +
The news from all parts of the vineyard on this side of the water is truly cheering.
 +
 +
The work is spreading in the face of all the opposition of the lying editors and priests: it seems to laugh its foes to scorn, and pursue its joyful way as if no obstacles had intervened.
 +
 +
Here in Manchester some thirty persons were added to the church in about three weeks, and are now rejoicing in the truth.
 +
 +
In Rochdale, some twelve were being baptized and confirmed at once.
 +
 +
In Stockport also there is a great increase in numbers, and in faith and love, if we are rightly informed by Br Whitehead with whom we lately conversed, and who is laboring there with great success.
 +
 +
We have also learned from the Isle of Man, that the church there has begun to lay hold of a greater degree of faith and union, and that they are increasing both in numbers and in gifts.
 +
 +
We have received an interesting account from Elder A. Cordon of a debate held in Drayton, on the 20th July, between himself and a Wesleyan minister, in which truth triumphed, and much good was done. We hope to give it in full in our next.
 +
 +
We have also received a communication from Elder Adams, giving a very interesting account of his labors in London, and of two debates held by him on the one part, and a Baptist minister, and afterwards a Mr. Allen, on the other part. These discussions were well attended, and resulted in much good. A great work seems to be going on in London, multitudes seem to be convinced of the truth, and many are being added by repentance and baptism. Elder Snow writes from London, under date of Aug. 21st, as follows:-"Dear Brother, this morning I occupy a few moments in communicating a general view of the present state and prosperity of the London conference. Six months since, when I took charge of this conference, we numbered less than one hundred members; since that time the conference has increased to the number of more than two hundred and twenty. I have recently had the pleasure of spending three weeks in Bedford and vicinity. My heart truly rejoiced to witness the good order, peace, and love prevailing among them. The zeal and untiring perseverance of the officers of the church in Bedford, in leaving their homes on Sunday mornings, having labored with their hands all the week, and walking some eight or ten miles to proclaim the fulness [fullness] of the gospel, is truly worthy of commendation and of imitation by all those who labor in the name and by the authority of Jesus Christ. During the time I was in Bedford twenty-three persons were baptized into Zion's fold, in that place and vicinity."
 +
 +
Elder Levi Richards, writes from Monmouth, Aug. 31st, stating that he had lately met the officers in Garway conference, in council, after an abscence [absence] of some four weeks, and was rejoiced to see a spirit of union and effort in the cause of Zion superior to any former occasion of the kind. About twenty had been baptized, and a dozen more places opened for preaching and generally well attended.
 +
 +
Elder Thomas Harris writes from Bristol under date Aug. 19. He informs us that the work of the Lord is moving onward in that city-that there are more or less obeying the Gospel every week-that many others seem to be believing, and many of our publications called for. The people there are beginning to enquire [inquire] after the matter for themselves, and the priests begin to cry delusions, imposters [impostors], deceivers, &c.
 +
 +
Elder Stephen Nixon writes from Doncaster, Yorkshire, under date of August 21st, informing us that he had lately commenced laboring in that place-that he had baptized two loca [local]
 +
 +
{{page break|636}}
 +
 +
________________________________________
 +
 +
 +
 +
preachers and three members of the Aitkenite society. This was done in two or three days from the first introduction of the Gospel into that place. Many more are believing, and one more preacher had given his name for baptism.
 +
 +
Brother T. Taap writes from Paisley, August 23rd, as follows:-Dear Brother,-There is nothing but love and unity in our midst, and all is life and joy. We have laid siege to the empire of Satan, and expect, with the help of God, to reap a plentiful harvest of souls. We take four stations on Sunday mornings in the town, and then two go to Nielston. They have broken ground there, and baptized the first last week; two go to Barshead, where some are making enquiry [inquiry], but none baptized yet; two more start for Renfrew. They have baptized, I think, seventeen in that place. They organised [organized] that branch last Sabbath. You see we are all at work, and the Lord is blessing us abundantly, which gives us great joy.
 +
 +
City of Nauvoo, Illinois,
 +
 +
Mayor's Office, Dec. 9th, A. D. 1841.
 +
 +
Gentlemen of the City Watch:-You will accept of the lasting gratitude of the City Council, and your fellow-citizens at large, for the faithful performance of the important public trust heretofore reposed in you as the nocturnal guardians of their lives, and property. Justice to yourselves, and the public, requires that you should now be relieved from further duty, as watchmen-you are therefore, hereby disbanded.
 +
 +
Fellow-Citizens:-I have issued a requisition to Gen. Joseph Smith for a new City Watch, to be detailed from the military forces of the Corporation-he will, therefore, be obeyed accordingly, and the men of his choice respected in their station until relieved, and disbanded, by the civil authorities.
 +
 +
JOHN C. BENNETT, Mayor.
 +
 +
An Ordinance in relation to hawkers, pedlars [peddlers], and public shows and exhibitions.
 +
 +
Sec. 1. Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Nauvoo, that it shall not be lawful for any person or persons, usually denominated hawkers and pedlars [peddlers], to hawk or carry about from place to place in this city, any goods, wares, or merchandise, excepting such as are manufactured within the limits of this Corporation, who shall not, previously to selling or offering for sale, such goods, wares, or merchandise, have obtained a license therefor from this Corporation, signed by the Mayor, and counter-signed by the Recorder, for which he, she, or they shall, at the time of obtaining the same, pay a sum not exceeding fifty dollars, nor less than ten dollars; and such person or persons as aforesaid, who may be found hawking about any goods or merchandise, except as aforesaid, and selling or offering the same for sale without a license therefor, shall forfeit and pay for each and every such offence [offense] the sum of twenty dollars: and any person or persons who shall refuse to exhibit his, her, or their license so obtained, upon being required by any citizen so to do, shall forfeit and pay the sum of five dollars for each and every such refusal: Provided, that nothing in the foregoing shall be construed to require a license for hawking about for sale any articles of poultry, fish, meat, bread-stuffs, butter, cheese, eggs, or vegetables; or such perishable merchandise as is used for food.
 +
 +
Sec. 2. That all licenses granted by this Corporation to hawkers or pedlars[peddlers], shall expire on the first Monday of November next following the date of such license.
 +
 +
Sec. 3. That any person or persons desiring to exhibit, within this Corporation, any curiosities of nature or art, not inconsistent with decency, or contrary to good morals, shall procure a license as aforesaid, for which he, she, or they, shall pay a sum not exceeding fifty dollars, nor less than ten dollars; and the said license shall continue in force for one week and no longer: and such person or persons as aforesaid, who may be found in open violation of this section, shall forfeit and pay for each and every such offence [offense] the sum of fifty dollars: all exhibtions [exhibitions] inconsistent with decency, or contrary to good morals, are expressly prohibited under the penalty of one hundred dollars for each offence [offense].
 +
 +
Sec. 4. This ordinance to take effect, and be in force, from and after its passage. Passed-Nov. 27, A. D. 1841.
 +
 +
JOHN C. BENNETT, Mayor.
 +
 +
JAMES SLOAN, Recorder.
 +
 +
{{page break|637}}
 +
 +
________________________________________
 +
 +
 +
 +
OFFICERS OF THE CITY OF NAUVOO
 +
 +
Mayor-John C. Bennett. Surveyor-A. Ripley.
 +
 +
Recorder-James Sloan. Assessor and Collector-Lewis Robison.
 +
 +
Attorney-Sidney Rigdon. Supervisor of Streets-James Allred.
 +
 +
Notary Public-E. Robinson. Weigher and Sealer-Theodore Turley.
 +
 +
Marshal-H. G. Sherwood. Market Master-Stephen Markham.
 +
 +
Marshal ad interim-D. B. Huntington. Sexton-W. D. Huntington.
 +
 +
Treasurer-John S. Fulmer.
 +
 +
FIRST WARD.
 +
 +
Aldermen-Samuel H. Smith, Hiram Kimball.
 +
 +
Councillors [Councilors]-John P. Green, Vinson Knight, Orson Pratt, Willard Richards.
 +
 +
High Constable-D. B. Huntington.
 +
 +
SECOND WARD.
 +
 +
Aldermen-N. K. Whitney, Orson Spencer.
 +
 +
Councillors [Councilors]-Hyrum Smith, Lyman Wight, Wilford Woodruff, John Taylor.
 +
 +
High Constable-George Morey.
 +
 +
THIRD WARD.
 +
 +
Aldermen-Daniel H. Wells, Gustavus Hills.
 +
 +
Councillors [Councilors]-John T. Barnett, C. C. Rich, Hugh McFall, H. C. Kimball.
 +
 +
High Constable-Lewis Robison.
 +
 +
FOURTH WARD.
 +
 +
Aldermen-William Marks, George W. Harris.
 +
 +
Councillors [Councilors]-Joseph Smith, Wilson Law, Brigham Young, William Law.
 +
 +
High Constable-W. D. Huntington.
 +
 +
The City Council consists of the Mayor, Aldermen, and Councillors [Councilors], and sits on the first and third Saturday of every month, commencing at 6 o'clock, P.M.
 +
 +
MUNICIPAL COURT.
 +
 +
Chief-Justice-John C. Bennett.
 +
 +
Associate-Justices-Samuel H. Smith, Hiram Kimball, N. K. Whitney, Orson Spencer, Daniel H. Wells, Gustavus Hills, William Marks, George W. Harris.
 +
 +
Clerk-James Sloan.
 +
 +
The Municipal Court sits on the first Monday in every month, commencing at 10 o'clock, A. M.
 +
 +
MAYOR'S COURT.
 +
 +
This is the Criminal Court of the city, and sits at such times as the business of the city requires-the Mayor presiding.
 +
 +
CAUTION!
 +
 +
The public are cautioned against one Dr. William Campbell, alias Samuel Rogers, a professed phrenologist. Sometime in September last he joined a branch of this church, in Mercer county in this State, where he obtained a recommend from the elders of that branch, as a member in good standing. He soon after got married to a young lady of that neighborhood, when he apparently commenced business-he got in debt as much as possible, until the latter part of November, when he borrowed a horse and some guns under the pretext of going a hunting, and left the country. Some suspicions resting upon him he was followed, and the horse obtained, but the guns had been sold; he made his escape.
 +
 +
It has since been ascertained that he has two others wives, one in Ohio, and the other in this State. He undoubtedly joined the church for a cloak to his iniquity.
 +
 +
POETRY
 +
 +
For the Times and Seasons.
 +
 +
HYMN-C. M.
 +
 +
BY A CONVERTED JEW.
 +
 +
Behold the temple of the Lord No strife shall wound Messiah's reign
 +
 +
In latter days shall rise Or mar the Peaceful years;
 +
 +
Above the mountains and the hills To plough-shares now they beat their swords
 +
 +
And draw our won'dring eyes. To pruning-hooks their spears.
 +
 +
To this the joyful nations round, Come, then, O come from every land,
 +
 +
All lands and tongues shall flow: To worship at his shrine;
 +
 +
Up to the hill of God, they'll cry, And walking in the light of God,
 +
 +
And to his house we'll go. With peace and glory shine.
 +
 +
The beam that shines in Zion's hill,
 +
 +
Shall lighten every land;
 +
 +
The King who reigns in Zion's towers
 +
 +
Shall the whole world command.
 +
 +
TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN.
 +
 +
I have appointed Willard Richards Recorder for the Temple, who will receive all property devoted to the building of the Temple and enter the same, at the Recorder's office in the lower room of the new store. JOSEPH SMITH,
 +
 +
Nauvoo, Dec. 15 Trustee in Trust.
 +
 +
MR. WM. CROSS from Eng. Manufacturer of Instantaneous Friction Lights, (Matches) to be had wholesale and retail at his lodgings with Mr. Neibaur Surgeon Dentist, opposite Mr. Tidwell the Cooper on the water.
 +
 +
Nauvoo, Dec. 15th,--tf.
 +
 +
HEBREW AND GERMAN
 +
 +
A. NEIBAUR Surgeon Dentist, (a German Jew,) will give instruction in the above Languages during the winter season.
 +
 +
Residence S. E. Water St. opposite the coopers.
 +
 +
E ROBINSON, Editor and Proprietor.
 +
 +
{{page break|638}}

Revision as of 19:43, 12 December 2018

  1. REDIRECTTemplate:Test3

Times and Seasons: Volume 3, Number 4

Summary:Source document in Mormon Publications: 19th and 20th Centuries online archive: Times and Seasons Vol. 3


Number 3 Number 5

Times and Seasons: Volume 3, Number 4




TIMES AND SEASONS
"TRUTH WILL PREVAIL"
Volume 3. No. 4.] CITY OF NAUVOO, ILL. DEC. 15, 1841. [Whole No. 40.

TIMES AND SEASONS

CITY OF NAUVOO

WEDNESDAY DEC. 15, 1841.

Terms-$2,00 per annum, in advance.

All orders for this paper must be accompanied by the MONEY, and post paid, to insure attention; and at the expiration of the time paid for, the paper or papers will be stopped, unless the subscription is renewed.

A Post-Master may enclose money in a letter to a publisher of a newspaper to pay the subscription of a third person, and frank the letter, if written by himself.-POST-MASTER GENERAL.

Letter From P. P. Pratt.

Manchester, Aug. 12, 1841

To the Authorities and Members of the church of the saints in Nauvoo and vicinity, and to my old friends and associates in the kingdom of Jesus Christ:-Greeting:-

Dearly beloved,

It seemeth good unto me after an absence of two years, to stir up my own memory and yours, by addressing a few lines to you as a token of our mutual love, and of my lasting remembrance and respect. How often while surrounded with the objects of a foreign land and engaged in the busy scenes of life, surrounded with myriads of smiling and friendly faces, I call to mind the scenes of other days, the friends of my youth, or the companions of the morning of my life. How often I imagine while surveying the countenance of some of my new acquaintance, or gazing upon the congregation of rejoicing hundreds, (who were strangers to me but yesterday, but who are made nigh by the blood of Christ,) that I behold in their features some outlines of those faces which I have beheld in other lands, and with which I have rejoiced amid other scenes. One looks like Newel Knights, another like John Murdock, a third resembles Lyman Wight, and a fourth reminds me of Ezekiel or Hezekiah Peck (of Colesville) a fifth seems to resemble E. Partridge or Isaac Morley; but on a more minute examination, alas! the illusion vanishes as a dream of the morning: it is not the heart or hand of these old friends that I embrace; but some near acquaintance-dear to my heart as a saint; but not endeared by so many kindred scenes of mutual joy and sorrow. Thus, while otherwise happy in the performance of duty, and in the enjoyments of good society I long after my own native country, and the friends of my youth, yea, my bosom yearns, and my heart, as it were, fires within me.

But I must say with the poet:

"Former friends, how oft, I've sought them

Just to cheer the drooping mind;

But they're gone like leaves of autumn

Driven before the dreary wind."

Yes, they are gone, many of them to Eternity-worn out by the rolling wheels of time, and by hardship and exposure, for the cause of truth, or cut down by sudden death as martyrs in the cause of God, they sleep where wo and sorrow can never reach them more, and where oppression can never come. Their spirits mingle in the purer scenes of joys celestial-mid immortal throngs, but this is our sorrow that in this mortal life we shall see their faces no more.

I am now 34 years of age-next year I pass the narrow straight of middle life, the half way house between life's opening and its close. I stand as it were on a pinnacle between two worlds, and hardly know to which I belong-perhaps my old acquaintance are as numerous in heaven as on earth, and I hardly know in the division of my affections, to which I am the most attached.

It is now eleven years since I first embraced the fulness [fullness] of the gospel: three small branches, consisting of about fifty member in all, were then the only people connected as Latter Day Saints. I was one of those who took the first mission to the western states, in which the fulness [fullness] of the gospel was first introduced into Ohio, (commencing at Kirtland,) Indiana, Illinois and Missouri, and into the Indian territory, among the Lamanites.

When countless millions shall throng the courts of the New Jerusalem which is soon to be built in Jackson county, Missouri, upon the consecrated spot, then perhaps it may be remembered that in 1830, in the depth of a howling winte [winter]



623


________________________________________


five men penetrated Missouri's wilds, and traveled on foot from St. Louis to Independence, Jackson county, wading in snow to the knees the greater part of the way for 300 miles; and all this as may be said, without money or friends, except as they made them. These are the first footsteps ever made in that state by Latter Day Saints-these first placed their feet upon that holy ground, where shall stand the great temple of our God, the resort of the nations, and the joy of the whole earth.

Of those five men, Peter Whitmer is now in his grave, two are turned away from the fellowship of the church, and the other two, F. G. Williams and myself are yet alive, and blessed with the grace of God we are yet counted worthy of a place among you. Thus I find myself a monument of mercy, spared like an oak amid the tempest, and to God be ascribed all the glory; for were it not for his peculiar longsuffering and goodness I might now have been an outcast from the commonwealth of Israel, or cut down by untimely death without beholding in this life the establishment of Zion.

But O! how many scenes of joy and sorrow, of trail and suffering, of meeting and parting, of life and death, have we been called to pass through since that time. How many have been the travels, the toils, the sufferings, the hopes, the fears, the feelings, the disappointments, the blessings, the glories, the signs, the wonders, the deliverences [deliverance's] experienced by the servants of the Most High God. There has the entire church been disinherited, plundered and driven-and their settlements been broken up. Time and again has the deadly weapon been aimed at its leaders, and some of them slain.-All these things have I seen with my eyes-yea they have fallen on my right hand and on my left, wounded, bleeding, dying for the cause of Zion, and yet not a bone of mine has been broken, though part of my blood has been shed; yea prisons, chains, and dungeons have compassed us round about, the cold ground has been our lodging place, and murderers and demons have kept watch over our slumbers, and lulled us to sleep with songs of blasphemy; recounting with horrid triumph their thefts, whoredoms, rapes and murders. Yet out of all these things the Lord has delivered us, and has caused the nations of the proud to tremble before us, and the meek of the earth to hail us as the messengers of salvation.

Two years have scarcely elapsed since I took leave of Nauvoo and of the society of the saints in the west, and never shall I forget the scenes of suffering through which they were then passing; houseless, and pennyless[penniless], dwelling in tents, in wagons, or under the trees; sick and dying. The majority scattered abroad through persecution, and the Nauvoo meeting of a Sabbath, scarcely bringing together one hundred people, and not 30 dwellings in the town.

But what is the astonishing news which now salutes my ears. "Shall the earth bring forth in a day, or shall a nation be born at once, for as soon as Zion travailed she brought forth her children." I am now informed that about 1200 houses are erected in Nauvoo and hundreds more in progress; and that the earth is cultivated for miles in every direction as the garden of Eden, where two years ago all was desolate loneliness, and that the walls of the temple are now erecting.

Dear brethren, while you are prospered by the hand of God in doing so much at home, the same spirit has wrought mightily in us, in lifting an ensign to the nations and a standard to the people far abroad, and the ships of Tarshish are beginning to bring thy sons from afar and thy daughters from the ends of the earth. Already something near one thousand souls have been gathered to Zion from the isles of the sea, and thousands more are preparing to come shortly.

Sept. 12th. Dear brethren, the many duties of life have thus far prevented me from finishing this communication; it is now Sunday morning, and the pleasantest morning I ever saw in England. The sky is clear, the sun bright, the weather warm and pleasant-I take a few moments before going to meeting, to finish this epistle; in a few hours I shall be in the Hall with some five hundred saints and friends, many of whom will never see it again; for on next week Monday, the ship Tyrean will sail from Liverpool for New Orleans with 204 passengers bound for Nauvoo. Near one half of these are from Manchester and vicinity, and are our old friends here; but their places are fast filling up with new converts: thus you see our mission is of a nature calculated to subject us to important changes,



624


________________________________________


and scenes continually varying. We form society, and break it up, we gather a congregation, and send if off, we increase, and then decrease, we get friends and acquaintance and they vanish away, we form intimacies, and they are broken off; thus it is one continual scene of parting with friends and making more; of breaking off old acquaintance and forming new; all these things are calculated to excite the mind, and to give peculiar feelings, of a mingled nature and not easily described.

Dear brethren, we feel extremely anxious to do something for the temple, but at present the money is all swallowed up in emigration; a few of those who come over in the Tyrean will have a little money, and perhaps they will do some little for the temple; but it will take what they have to provide them a home; indeed many of them will land without a shilling. The distress is such in this country that the saints will go to Zion whether they can carry any thing with them or not. They had rather be slaves in America than to starve in this country. I cannot keep them back,-go they will, and go they must, or perish: many respectable people are seeking a passage with us, who are not saints, as yet.

I have obtained a few dollars for the temple, from two or three individuals, and am in hopes to add something to it, before the sailing of the "Tyrean," and some more before the sailing of the next ship, (in October,) but very few can be found who can spare a sovereign without really distressing themselves. I shall send the mite, for the temple by brother Joseph Fielding who is expecting to take the lead of this company. He will bring it to you in safety if he is spared, and I hope it will be acceptable though small.

I have just heard from Elder Hyde, he was taking passage down the Danube for Constantinople, he is well, and in good spirits.

When I shall see Nauvoo I know not, perhaps it may be many years; but my heart is there, and there my friends and kindred dwell. I must now close: please accept this in token of my lasting rememberance [remembrance], and pray for me-Farewell.

Yours in the bonds

of everlasting freedom,

P. P. PRATT.

BAPTISM FOR THE DEAD.

An Epistle of the Twelve to the Saints of the Last Days.

The building of the Temple of the Lord, in the city of Nauvoo, is occupying the first place in the exertions and prayers of many of the saints at the present time, knowing as they do, that if this building is not completed, speedily, "we shall be rejected as a church with our dead," for the Lord our God hath spoken it; but while many are thus engaged in laboring, and watching and praying for this all important object, there are many, very many more, who do not thus come up to their privilege and their duty in this thing, and in many instances we are confident that their neglect arises from a want of proper understanding of the principles upon which this building is founded, and by which it must be completed.

The children of Israel were commanded to build a house in the land of promise; and so are the saints of the last days, as you will see in the Revelation given to Joseph the Seer, Jan. 19th 1811, wherein those ordinances may be revealed which have been hid for ages, even their anointings and washings and baptisms for the dead; wherein they may meet in solemn assemblies for their memorials, sacrifices, and oracles in their most holy places; and wherein they may receive conversations and statutes, and judgements [judgments]for the beginning of the revelations and foundations of Zion, and the glory and honor and adornment of all her municiples [municipals], through the medium which God hath ordained.

In the same revelation the command is to "all the saints from afar," as well as those already gathered to this place; to arise with one consent and build the Temple; to prepare a place where the Most High may manifest himself to his people. No one is excepted who hath ought in his possession, for what have ye that ye have not received? and I require mine own with usury saith the Lord; so that those who live thousands of miles from this place, come under the same law, and are entitled to the same blessings and privileges as those who have already gathered. But some may say how can this be, I am not there, therefore I cannot meet in the Temple; cannot be baptized in the Font? The command



625


________________________________________


of heaven is to you, to all, gather: and when you arrive here, if it is found that you have previously sent up of your gold or your silver, or your substance, the tythings [tithing] and consecrations which are required of you, for this building, you will find your names, tithings, and consecrations written in the Book of the Law of the Lord, to be kept in the Temple, as a witness in your favor, showing that you are a proprietor in that building, and are entitled to your share of the privileges thereunto belonging.

One of those privileges which is particularly attracting the notice of the saints at the present moment, is baptism for the dead, &c. in the font, which is so far completed as to be dedicated, and several have already attended to this ordinance by which the sick have been made whole, and the prisoner set free; but while we have been called to administer this ordinance, we have been led to enquire [inquire] into the propriety of baptizing those who have not been obedient, and assisted to build the place for baptism, and it seems to us unreasonable to expect that the Great Jehovah will approbate such an administration; for if the church must be brought under condemnation and rejected with her dead if she fail to build the house, and its appurtenances, why should not individuals of the church, who thus neglect, come under the same condemnation? And if they are to be rejected they may as well be rejected without baptism as with, for their baptism can be of no avail before God, and the time to baptize them may be appropriated to building the walls of the house, and this is according to the understanding which we have received from him who is our spokesman.

Let it not be supposed that the sick and the destitute are to be denied the blessings of the Lord's House; God forbid; his eye is ever upon them for good. He that hath not, and cannot obtain, but saith in his heart if I had, I would give freely, is accepted as freely as he that gives of his abundance. The Temple is to be built by tything [tithing] and consecration, and every one is at liberty to consecrate all they find in their hearts so to do; but the tythings [tithings] required, is one tenth of all any one possessed at the commencement of the building, and one tenth part of all his increase from that time till the completion of the same, whether it be money or whatever he may be blessed with. Many, in this place, are laboring every tenth day for the house, and this is the tything [tithing] of their income, for they have nothing else; others would labor the same but they are sick, therefore, excusable, when they get well let them begin: while there are others who appear to think their own business of more importance than the Lord's: to such we would ask, who gave you your time, health, strength, and put you into business? and will you not begin quickly to return with usury that which you have received? Our God will not wait always.

We would remind some two or three hundred Elders, who offered to go out on missions, some six months, others one year, and some two years, and had their missions assigned them at the general conference to labor on the Temple, that most of their names are still with us, and we wish them to call and take their names away, and give them up to the building committee. Brethren you have as great an interest at stake in this thing as we have, but as our Master, even the Master builder of the Temple, whose throne is on high, has seen fit to constitute us stewards in some parts of his household; we feel it important for us to see to it that our Master is not defrauded, and especially by those who have pledged their word, their time, their talents, to his services; and we hope this gentle hint will suffice, that we may not be compelled to publish the names of those referred to.

Probably some may think they could have gone on a mission but cannot labor as they have no means of boarding themselves, but let such remember that several score of brethren and sisters in this city, offered to the general conference, to board one or more laborers on the Temple till the same should be completed, and but few of those, as yet, have had the opportunity of boarding. To all such we would say you are not forgotten, we have your names, also, and we expect soon to send some one to your table, therefore put your houses in order and never be ready to refuse the first offer of a guest.

Large stores of provisions will be required to complete the work, and now is the time for securing it, while meat is plenty and can be had for one half the value that it can at other seasons of the



626


________________________________________


year, and the weather is cool and suitable for packing. Let the brethren for two hundred miles around drive their fat cattle and hogs to this place, where they may be preserved, and there will be a supply till another favorable season rolls round, or till the end of the labor.-Now is the time to secure food. Now is the time that the trustee is ready to receive your droves,-Not the maimed, the lean, the halt, and the blind, and such that you cannot use; it is for the Lord, and he wants no such offering: but if you want his blessing give him the best; give him as good as he has given you. Beds and bedding, socks, mittens, shoes, clothing of every description, and store goods are needed for the comfort of the laborers this winter; journeymen stone cutters, quarrymen, teams and teamsters for drawing stone, and all kinds of provision for men and beast, are needed in abundance.

There are individuals who have given nothing as yet, either as tythings [tithings] or consecration, thinking that they shall be able to do a great deal some time hence, if they continue their present income to their own use; but this is a mistaken idea; suppose that all should act upon this principle, no one would do ought at present, consequently the building must cease, and this generation remain without a house, and the church be rejected; then suppose the next generation labor upon the same principle, and the same in all succeeding generations, the Son of God would never have a place on earth to lay his head. Let every individual remember that their tythings [tithings] and consecrations are required from what they have, and not from what they expect to have sometime hence, and are wanted for immediate use.

All money and other property designed for tythings [tithings] and consecrations to the building of the Temple must hereafter be presented to the trustee in trust, President Joseph Smith, and entered at the Recorder's office in the book before referred to; and all receipts now holden by individuals, which they have received of the building committee for property delivered to them, must also be forwarded to the Recorder's office for entry, to secure the appropiation [appropriation] of said property according to the original design.

The Elders every where, will instruct the brethren both in public and in private, in the principles and doctrine set forth in this epistle, so that every individual of the church may have a perfect understanding of his duty and privilege.

BRIGHAM YOUNG,

HEBER C. KIMBALL,

ORSON PRATT,

WILLIAM SMITH,

LYMAN WIGHT,

WILLFORD WOODRUFF,

JOHN TAYLOR,

GEO. A. SMITH,

WILLARD RICHARDS.

Nauvoo, Ill. Dec. 13th, 1841.

From the Gospel Reflector.

CHARITY.

In consequence of our bold testimony and the much plainness and simplicity which we use in describing the apostacy [apostasy] of the church, we are often accused of not having charity for all people who profess to worship God according to the various systems of religion that are extant.

Therefore I think it necessary to insert a few remarks upon this subject, and set forth in plain terms some of the apostles' ideas of true charity. Some have supposed that it is impossible for us to be actuated by true charity, when we are so particular in describing the awful condition of apostacy [apostasy], that so many of the human family are in; and also when we contend that there cannot be but one right way to serve God, or in other words but one plan of salvation. Some say they have charity for all. Very good; but does true charity lead any person to believe that the doctrines of all societies are right, or that there is more than one true plan of salvation. The apostle Paul has given the following description of charity. "Though I speak with the tongues of men and angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned and have not charity, it profiteth me nothing. Charity suffereth long, and is kind; charity envieth not; charity vaunteth not itself is not puffed up, doth not behave itself unseemly, seeketh not her own, is not easily provoked,



627


________________________________________


thinketh no evil; rejoiceth not in iniquity, but rejoiceth in the truth; beareth all things, believeth all things, hopeth all things, endureth all things."-1 Cor. xiii chapter. From the above we learn that charity rejoiceth not in false doctrines, but rejoiceth in the true doctrine of Christ-"Charity rejoiceth not in iniquity," &c. We will now examine this subject and see whether or not the scriptures teach more than one true gospel. Paul says, "Though we or an angel from heaven preach any other gospel unto you, than that which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed." Gal. i. 8. Here we see that the apostle has denounced a curse upon any individual who should be so presumptous [presumptuous] as to preach any other gospel than the gospel of Christ. Certainly no other gospel than the one the apostles preached, and the ancient saints obeyed, is the power of God unto salvation; and the curse of God inevitably will follow any person who deviates from it in his teaching. Christ said, "Verily, verily I say unto you, He that entereth not by the door into the sheepfold, but climbeth up some other way the same is a thief and a robber."-John x. 1. Now it is plain that there is but one entrance into the kingdom of God: all other pretended entrances are the works of men who try to climb up some other way. How many doctrines did Christ acknowledge to be true? I answer, only one, and that was the one that the apostles preached; and pronounced a curse upon all who should preach a different one. But says one, those Christian societies that call themselves orthodox, only differ in nonessential points. I reply the scripture says nothing about nonessential points of the doctrine of Christ. The gospel is a perfect law of liberty, because a perfect being devised it, and if it is changed in the least, it is rendered imperfect. For this reason I conclude that it is the very height of folly, to believe there can be more than one true order of the gospel. And a man must be obedient to every principle of it, or it can not be said in truth that he is obedient to the gospel of Christ. But to proceed.

Charity in the full sense of the word is the love of God shed abroad in the hearts of the people of God; love towards your neighbors; assistance and friendship in the time of distress and danger. For instance we see a person in danger, and he ignorant of it, it would not be charity in us to flatter him in his dangerous condition, and thus expose him to more danger, or in other words, if any person is deceived, and is in a dangerous condition, and we know his condition to be an awful one; it is charity in us, not only that, but is our duty to warn him of his danger and entreat him to forsake the evil way, instead of acknowledging his delusion to be good, and thus flatter him in wickedness.

Now let us examine the charity that Christ had for the Jews.

At the time he made his appearance among them, they were divided into sects and parties, and had broken the covenant the Lord had made with their fathers while in the wilderness. Notwithstanding, the Mosaic law was given by divine direction, and the children of Israel blessed when they performed all the ordinances of that law, yet the Jews had made it void through the tradition of their elders, and imbibed erroneous opinions, grieved the spirit of God, apostatized, and were fit subjects to reject the Messiah. Christ said to the Pharisees and Sadducees, &c., "But woe unto you Scribes and Pharisees hypocrites! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men; for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in: for ye are like unto whited sepulchres [sepulchers], which indeed appear beautiful outward, but are within full of dead men's bones and all uncleanness. Ye serpents, ye generation of vipers, how can ye escape the damnation of hell?" (See Math. xxiii chapter.) The Scribes, Pharisees and Sadducees at this time professed to be Moses' disciples and to worship God according to the law. Christ commanded his apostles saying "go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature, and he that believeth, and is baptized shall be saved and he that believeth not shall be damned." From the above we learn that with all the religions that the human family professed, that they all had to come to the standard of Christ, and comply with the requisitions of the gospel, or be damned; none were exempt from this command. Furthermore, Christ said to the Pharisees, "you are of your father the devil and his works ye will do: for he was a liar from the beginning." Paul said, "O child of the devil," &c. No person who believes



628


________________________________________


the bible doubts but what Christ and the apostles were actuated by true charity, when they described the wickedness of the above mentioned people, notwithstanding the boldness of their testimony, and plainness of their assertions.

Now if Christ and the apostles had the same kind of charity that the people want us to have, they would have said to the Pharisees, Sadducees, Scribes, Alexandrians, Syrenians, &c., go on, you are doing well; this difference of opinion is only of minor consequence. And if they had thus flattered them, what would have been the consequence? Would it not have involved them deeper in sin and iniquity, and caused them to drink a greater draft of the intoxicating spirit of delusion, and encouraged them in their works of darkness? Let the reader answer this question for himself. It certainly was pure charity that inspired Christ and his apostles to reprove the world for their sins, and corruptions; and why should it be considered an uncharitable act in the Latter-Day Saints to do the same, providing the world are in similar circumstances. Indeed, the Jews were in a state of apostacy [apostasy] when Christ came, and they were all commanded to bow to his sceptre [scepter], and obey his gospel and no other way, plan, gospel, or system of religion would save them from the consequences of their sins.

Now if the Christian world in general are in a state of apostacy [apostasy], which by the by, we have already proved, as will be seen in the first number of this work, and we have knowledge of it, or in other words a knowledge of the predictions of the prophets and apostles, on this subject: if we have charity for them, we will warn them of these things: "Knowing the terror of the Lord," says the apostle, "we persuade men." Therefore, knowing the apostacy [apostasy] of many who profess Christianity and the awful consequences except they repent, and that Christ will come in the clouds of heaven, and with a flame of fire to take vengeance on them who know not God, and obey not the gospel of Christ; charity prompts us to lift up our voices, and proclaim repentance, and the necessity of obedience to the commands of God. Again, the apostle says as we have before quoted: "Though I have the gift of prophecy and understand all mysteries, and have not charity I am nothing." No one who believes the bible doubts but what Christ and the apostles were influenced by a philanthropic spirit, or charity, when they prophecied [prophesied] to the Jews their destruction. But we would naturally infer from the above quotation, that it is possible for a man to have the spirit of prophecy, or a knowledge of future events, and yet be in a degree destitute of charity. With the spirit of prophecy, or knowledge that Christ had of the destruction that was coming upon the Jews, if he had remained in silence, would he have showed that he had charity for them. Certainly not. The circumstance of Jonah disobeying the command of God and taking a passage on board the ship for Tarsish, instead of going to Ninevah, is a remarkable instance of this kind. The Lord by the spirit of prophecy discovered to Jonah the great wickedness of the inhabitants of that city and the awful destruction that he had resolved to bring upon them, if they would not repent. Now Jonah having a knowledge of these things, also the pride and haughtiness of the Ninevites, concluded that if he testified these things to them it would cross them in their feelings and the finger of scorn would be pointed at him and he would have to suffer much in order to accomplish this work. Therefore he determined in his own mind (no doubt) not to go to Ninevah, but let them dwell in ignorance, and the destruction overtake them unawares. Thus we see that with all the knowledge he had of the destruction that would have come upon Ninevah had it not been for repentance, he was destitute of charity and turned from the path of duty.

Now if we have a knowledge of the second coming of Christ, and the terrible destructions that will come upon the wicked at the time, or those who are not prepared to meet him, shall we hold our peace, and make no exertion to reclaim them, that they may meet the Lord with joy, and not with grief? Furthermore, it would be an act of injustice to destroy a people, without first giving them a fair warning of it. The prophets, Christ, and the apostles, have predicted the following concerning the destruction of the last days, at, or previous to the coming of Christ, "Out of Zion the perfection of beauty, God hath shined. Our God shall come, and shall not keep silence; a fire shall devour before him, and it shall be



629


________________________________________


very tempestuous round about him. He shall call to the heavens from above, and to the earth, (that he may judge his people") Ps. L. 2-4. Christ speaking of his second coming said: "But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. But as the days of Noah were, so shall also the coming of the son of man be. For as in the days that were before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the day Noah entered into the ark, and knew not until the flood came, and took them all away; so shall also the coming of the Son of man be." Math. xxiv. 36-39. "But of the time and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you. For yourselves know perfectly, that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night. For when they shall say peace and safety, sudden destruction cometh upon them, * * and they shall not escape. But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief. Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness." I Thess. v. 1-5. Now from the above predictions we learn that the Lord has decreed a destruction upon the human family, and that the Lord Jesus is coming, and will overtake them as a thief in the night. And shall we remain in silence? no! we will testify these things, that the honest in heart may arouse from their slumbers, and prepare themselves to meet the awful day. If we have a knowledge of these things, and make no exertion to rescue others from the impending destruction, we will incur the displeasure of the Lord like Jonah. Charity inspires us to proclaim the truth, regardless of private feelings or men's opinions, that the Lord's people may be called out of Babylon, or from the midst or confusion, that they partake not of her sins, and receive not of her plagues, for her sins and iniquities have reached to heaven, and her judgments slumber not, (see Rev. xviii. 4, 5.) "For do I not persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men I should not be servant of Christ."-Gal. i. 10.

TIMES AND SEASONS,

CITY OF NAUVOO,

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 15, 1841.

STEAM MILLS.

We would call the attention of our friends, and more particularly the business men of our city, to the subject of steam mills-We are aware that great and extensive improvements have been made in our town, in a few months past-and we take great pleasure in saying that no city or town in the western country, has surpassed this, in rapidity of growth or increase of wealth-it has in the short space of a little over two years, been changed from a thinly settled neighborhood, of some fifteen or twenty families, into a densely populated city of near ten thousand inhabitants, and its population daily increasing.

To supply the wants of this community, requires a vast quantity of flour, meal, &c. the most of which, is brought from a distance; consequently a large amount of money goes from our midst into the hands of manufactors [manufactories] and dealers, abroad, a thing we should avoid as much as possible, as it is bad policy to depend upon our neighbors for our home consumptions [consumption's], when we have every facility, and ample means for manufacturing them for ourselves.

We have men in our city, of abundant capital to build permanent and extensive steam mills, sufficient to more than supply the wants of our citizens; an object greatly to be desired, as we are credibly informed that the proprietors of one mill in Warsaw, acknowledge the average receipt of fifty dollars per day, from this place; which is not the only mill patronized by our citizens, by any means.

The most of the small towns on the Upper Mississippi, have from one to two and three steam mills, which appear to be doing a good business. Now if those places can support from one to two and three mills, certainly, our city can amply support one. Not only our ability to do, but our wants actually require the services of one, or more, first rate mills, and we hope to see our business men awake on this subject.

UNIVERSITY OF THE CITY OF NAUVOO

BOARD OF REGENTS

Chancellor-John C. Bennett.

Registrar-William Law.

Regents-Joseph Smith, Sidney Rigdon,



630


________________________________________


Hyrum Smith, Wm. Marks, S. H. Smith, Daniel H. Wells, N. K. Whitney, Charles C. Rich, John T. Barnett, Wilson Law, John P. Green, Vinson Knight, Isaac Galland, Elias Higbee, Robert D. Foster, James Adams, Samuel Bennett, Ebenezer Robinson, John Snider, George Miller, Zenos M. Knight, John Taylor, and H. C. Kimball.

FACULTY.

President-

PROFESSORS.

Mathematics and English Literature-ORSON PRATT.

Languages-ORSON SPENCER.

Rhetoric and Belles Letters-Church History-SIDNEY RIDGON.

School Wardens for Common Schools.

FIRST WARD.

WARDENS-John P. Green, N. K. Whitney, A. Morrison.

SECOND WARD.

WARDENS-Charles C. Rich, Wilson Law, Elias Higbee.

THIRD WARD.

WARDENS-Daniel H. Wells, R. D. Foster, S. Winchester.

FOURTH WARD.

WARDENS-Vinson Knight, William Law, Ebenezer Robinson.

It will be seen that some of the Chairs of the university are yet vacant; the department of Mathematics and English Literature, however, is in successful operation under the supervision of Professor Pratt; and the department of Languages will be opened in a few days under the direction of Professor Spencer. The Chairs which have been filled are occupied by some of the most able men the nation affords in their respective departments.

Professor Pratt is a self-made man, and has had to encounter great difficulties in the acquisition of an education; but he has surmounted them all. As a teacher of Mathematics and English Literature, he is equaled by few, and surpassed by none this side of the great waters; as the proficiency of the matriculates of the university now under his care abundantly testifies.

Professor Spencer is a graduate of Union College, N. Y., in the Arts; and of the Baptist Literary and Theological Seminary, N. Y., in Divinity. He is a ripe scholar, and well fitted for the department to which he has been elected by the Regency.

Professor Rigdon is too well known to require any commendatory article to introduce him to public consideration, and popular favor. He has long been regarded, by both enemies and friends, as an accomplished Belles Letters scholar, and eloquent orator,-deeply learned in that department of collegiate education which has been assigned to him in the university.

The opportunity which thus presents itself to the citizens of this city, and the surrounding country, for acquiring a thorough and useful education, should not be neglected. While this city is lengthening her cords, and strengthening her stakes, and exhibiting such a spectacle of bustle and enterprise as was never before witnessed, it is to be hoped that mental culture will not be passed over as a little thing. Knowledge is power-a finished education always gives an influence in cultivated society, which neither wealth nor station can impart or control: let those, then, who desire to be useful in their day, come forward at once, and matriculate in some department of the university, that mind may grapple with mind in seeking after hidden treasures.

THE CITY COUNCIL.

We would invite the attention of our fellow-citizens to the deliberations of the City Council. That deliberative body convenes at the office of Gen. Hyrum Smith, at 6 o'clock, P. M., on the first, and third, Saturday of every month; and much valuable information is elicited during



631


________________________________________


the discussions of its important subjects presented for their consideration. The meetings are public, and afford an excellent opportunity, for those who desire it, to acquire an accurate knowledge of our polity, and the nature of our institutions. We hope to see the meetings well attended.

COMMON SCHOOLS.

The School Wardens of the University for Common Schools are desired to organize the schools in their respective wards in conformity to an act of the Regents in relation to that important subject-the Teachers must procure a certificate of competency from the Chancellor and Registrar before they can be recognised [recognized] by the Wardens.

THE N. Y. WEEKLY HERALD.

We are informed that there is to be a public demonstration in favor of that most ably conducted and useful paper, the New York Weekly Herald, by the City Council, at its next meeting. Just as it should be-let true merit be rewarded-honor to whom honor is due.

PROCLAMATION.

The following is inserted as the appendix to the "Book of Doctrine and Covenants" and knowing that it is a good proclamation to all people, we are induced to insert it under this head.

"SECTION C.

"1. Hearken, O ye people of my church, saith the Lord your God, and hear the word of the Lord concerning you; the Lord who shall suddenly come to his temple: the Lord who shall come down upon the world with a curse to judgment; yea, upon all the nations that forget God, and upon all the ungodly among you. For he shall make bare his holy arm in the eyes of all nations, and all the ends of the earth shall see the salvation of their God. Wherefore, prepare ye, prepare ye, O my people; sanctify yourselves; gather ye together, O ye people of my church, upon the land of Zion, all you that have not been commanded to tarry. Go ye out from Babylon. Be ye clean that bear the vessels of the Lord. Call your solemn assemblies, and speak often one to another.-And let every man call upon the name of the Lord; yea, verily I say unto you, again, the time has come when the voice of the Lord is unto you: Go ye out of Babylon; gather ye out from among the nations, from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.

"2. Send forth the Elders of my church unto the nations which are afar off; unto the islands of the sea; send forth unto foreign lands; call upon all nations; first, upon the Gentiles, and then upon the Jews. And behold and lo, this shall be their cry, and the voice of the Lord unto all people. Go ye forth unto the land of Zion, that the borders of my people may be enlarged, and that her stakes may be strengthened, and that Zion may go forth unto the regions round about: yea, let the cry go forth among all people; Awake and arise and go forth to meet the bridegroom: behold and lo the bridegroom cometh, go ye out to meet him. Prepare yourselves for the great day of the Lord. Let them, therefore, who are among the Gentiles, flee unto Zion. And let them who be of Judah, flee unto Jerusalem, unto the mountains of the Lord's house.-Go ye out from among the nations, even from Babylon, from the midst of wickedness, which is spiritual Babylon. But verily thus saith the Lord, let not your flight be in haste, but let all things be prepared before you: and he that goeth, let him not look back, lest sudden destruction shall come upon him.

"3. Hearken and hear O ye inhabitants of the earth. Listen ye elders of my church together, and hear the voice of the Lord, for he calleth upon all men and he commandeth all men every where to repent: for behold the Lord God hath sent forth the angel, crying through the midst of heaven, saying: Prepare ye the way of the Lord, & make his path straight, for the hour of his coming is nigh, when the Lamb shall stand upon mount Zion, and with him a hundred and forty four thousand, having his Father's name written in their foreheads: wherefore, prepare ye for the coming of the bridegroom: go ye, go ye out to meet him, for behold he shall stand upon the mount of Olivet, and upon the mighty ocean, even the great deep, and upon the islands of the sea, and upon the land of Zion, and he shall utter his voice out of Zion, and he shall speak from Jerusalem, and his voice shall be



632


________________________________________


heard among all people, and it shall be a voice as the voice of many waters, and as the voice of a great thunder, which shall break down the mountains, and the valleys shall not be found: he shall command the great deep and it shall be driven back into the north countries, and the islands shall become one land, and the land of Jerusalem and the land of Zion, shall be turned back into their own place, and the earth shall be like as it was in the days before it was divided.-And the Lord even the Saviour [Savior] shall stand in the midst of his people, and shall reign over all flesh. And they who are in the north countries shall come in remembrance before the Lord, and their prophets shall hear his voice, and shall no longer stay themselves, and they shall smite the rocks, and the ice shall flow down at their presence. And an high way shall be cast up in the midst of the great deep. Their enemies shall become a prey unto them, and in the barren deserts there shall come forth pools of living water; and the parched ground shall no longer be a thirsty land. And they shall bring forth their rich treasures unto the children of Ephraim my servants. And the boundaries of the everlasting hills shall tremble at their presence. And then shall they fall down and be crowned with glory, even in Zion, by the hands of the servants of the Lord, even the children of Ephraim, and they shall be filled with songs of everlasting joy. Behold this is the blessing of the everlasting God upon the tribes of Israel, and the richer blessing upon the head of Ephraim and his fellows. And they also of the tribe of Judah, after their pain, shall be sanctified in holiness before the Lord, to dwell in his presence day and night for ever and ever.

"4. And now verily saith the Lord, that these things might be known among you, O inhabitants of the earth, I have sent forth mine angel, flying through the midst of heaven, having the everlasting gospel, who hath appeared unto some, and hath committed it unto man, who shall appear unto many that dwell on the earth: and this gospel shall be preached unto every nation, and kindred, and tongue, and people, and the servants of God shall go forth, saying, with a loud voice: Fear God and give glory to him: for the hour of his judgment is come: and worship him that made heaven, and earth, and sea, and the fountain of waters, calling upon the name of the Lord day and night, saying: O that thou wouldst rend the heavens, that thou wouldst come down, that the mountains might flow down at thy presence. And it shall be answered upon their heads, for the presence of the Lord shall be as the melting fire that burneth, and as the fire which causeth the waters to boil. O Lord, thou shalt come down to make thy name known to thine adversaries, and all nations shall tremble at thy presence. When thou doeth terrible things, things they look not for; yea, when thou comest down and the mountains flow down at thy presence, thou shalt meet him who rejoiceth and worketh righteousness, who remember thee in thy ways: for since the beginning of the world have not men heard nor perceived by the ear, neither hath any eye seen, O God, besides thee, how great things thou hast prepared for him that waiteth for thee.

"5. And it shall be said, Who is this that cometh down from God in heaven with dyed garments: yea, from the regions which are not known, clothed in his glorious apparrel [apparel], travelling [traveling] in the greatness of his strength? And he shall say I am he who spake in righteousness, mighty to save. And the Lord shall be red in his apparrel [apparel], and his garments like him that treadeth in the wine-vat, and so great shall be the glory of his presence, that the sun shall hide his face in shame; and the moon shall withhold its light; and the stars shall be hurled from their places: and his voice shall be heard, I have trodden the wine-press alone, and have brought judgment upon all people; and none was with me; and I have trampled them in my fury, and I did tread upon them in mine anger, and their blood have I sprinkled upon my garments, and stained all my raiment: for this was the day of vengeance which was in my heart. And now the year of my redeemed is come, and they shall mention the loving kindness of their Lord, and all that he has bestowed upon them, according to his goodness, and according to his loving kindness, for ever and ever. In all their afflictions he was afflicted. And the angel of his presence saved them; and in his love, and in his pity, he redeemed them, and bare them, and carried them all the days of old; yea, and Enoch also, and they who were with him; the prophets who were before him, and Noah also, and they who



633


________________________________________


were before him, and Moses also, and they who were before him, and from Moses to Elijah, and from Elijah to John, who were with Christ in his resurrection, and the holy apostles, with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, shall be in the presence of the Lamb. And the graves of the saints shall be opened, and they shall come forth and stand on the right hand of the Lamb, when he shall stand upon mount Zion, and upon the holy city, the New Jerusalem, and they shall sing the song of the Lamb day and night for ever and ever.

"6. And for this cause, that men might be made partakers of the glories which were to be revealed, the Lord sent forth the fulness [fullness] of his gospel, his everlasting covenant, reasoning in plainness, and simplicity, to prepare the weak for those things which are coming on the earth; and for the Lord's errand in the day when the weak should confound the wise, and the little one become a strong nation, and two should put their tens of thousands to flight; and by the weak things of the earth, the Lord should thresh the nations by the power of his Spirit. And for this cause these commandments were given; they were commanded to be kept from the world in the day that they were given, but now are to go forth unto all flesh.-And this according to the mind and will of the Lord, who ruleth over all flesh; and unto him that repenteth and sanctifieth himself before the Lord, shall be given eternal life. And upon them that hearken not to the voice of the Lord, shall be fulfilled that which was written by the prophet Moses, that they should be cut off from among the people.

"7. And also that which was written by the prophet Malachi: For behold the day cometh that shall burn as an oven, and all the proud; yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble: and the day that cometh shall burn them up saith the Lord of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch. Wherefore this shall be the answer of the Lord unto them: In that day when I came unto my own, no man among you received me, and you were driven out. When I called again, there was none of you to answer, yet my arm was not shortened at all, that I could not redeem, neither my power to deliver. Behold at my rebuke I dry up the sea. I make rivers a wilderness: their fish stinketh, and dieth for thirst. I clothe the heavens with blackness, and make sackcloth their covering. And this shall ye have of my hand, ye shall lay down in sorrow.

"8. Behold and lo there came none to deliver you, for ye obeyed not my voice when I called to you out of the heavens, ye believed not my servants; and when they were sent unto you ye received them not: wherefore they sealed up the testimony and bound up the law, and ye were delivered over unto darkness: these shall go away into outer darkness, where there is weeping, and wailing and gnashing of teeth. Behold the Lord your God hath spoken it. Amen"

From the Millennial Star.

Douglas, Isle of Man, May 26th, 1841.

Dear Brother,

I feel a desire to express to you the joy of my heart, as a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. I have been here five or six weeks. The soil of this land is not good, either in a temporal or a spiritual sense. All the excitement has been raised here that could be raised, and although the whole land is but small, (about thirty miles in length and twelve in breadth) it appears as though all the lies and slander have been imported here that have ever been coined, beside all that have been coined here at home. The parsons try to make the people believe that we want their money, and that we only want those who have it. You know it is natural to men to look most after that which they value most, so they are fearful we shall get some of it. Mr. Haining says we are expecting to be saved by faith and obedience! and that we believe in dreams, &c., which he says, are very dangerous, as he cannot tell which are from the Lord and which from the devil. I suppose there are many more in the same case, so perhaps it would be best for the Lord not to give any more dreams or visions. Don't you see what singular characters we are? What a strange thing for ministers to love money! Did you ever hear such a thing? And then to think of being saved by faith and obedience! and again-a very worthy man, who doubtless is without fault, or he would not cast a stone, makes us say, we neither toil nor spin! but live by taking sinners in. Did you ever see the like that ministers live



634


________________________________________


without spining [spinning]! or even toiling? If this be so, how is it that you have not let me know how you do it, but let me toil as I have done since I left my farm and comfortable home in Canada, near four years. I have not learned to spin, but I have, I suppose, walked some thousands of miles, chiefly with an empty pocket (but I don't wish to complain, or else I would say, at some times not a very full stomach,) and I really thought my brethren did the same. You will perhaps let me into the secret, for I want to return to America soon, and how am I to get there? When you find out the treasurer of your funds I may get something perhaps; however we ought not to be idle while all the rest of the miniters [ministers] are toiling and spinning so busily, neither ought we to complain at what we get; for there is one gentleman on this island, who, with all his toiling and spinning has only £8,000 or £9,000 a year to live on, and some, I suppose, not as many hundreds, so I'll try to be content.

But you may think this is a strange way of expressing the joy of my heart. Well I will tell you then, I am on a barren spot; the enemies are all hoping to see the cause fail; the devil is hard against us, and, you say, "the line of battle is extending far and wide over the plains of Babel," which I fully believe. I see the hosts of earth and the hosts of hell all combined together to fight against the Lord and his anointed. The skirmishes which you have passed through are but as drops before a thunder storm; and universal war is proclaimed by the Majesty of heaven against the great usurper, and the earth is again to be stained with the blood of the saints before the final blow can be struck by the arm of Omnipotence, and that we are to have a time of trouble such as the world has not seen; I look upon all this with a firm countenance, and rejoice, knowing that the truth will prevail, and that the victory will be ours. The captain of our salvation inspires my heart with a martial spirit, and I feel to glory in the cause. I would not hurt any one, not even the devil, but I am at honorable war with him; if he can take the kingdom, or if he can take the little stone and throw it beyond the bounds of time and space, he may, but if we take him a prisoner of war, he shall be cast into prison in the name of Jesus Christ-Amen.

JOSEPH FIELDING.

From the Millennial Star.

Manchester, Sept. 10th, 1841.

THE WAR IN CHINA.

It appears that the war in China is about to be renewed with redoubled vigor. The English have fitted out a new expidition [expedition] to proceed against her with the utmost rigor, and his Celestial Majesty, on the other hand, has issued orders for the raising of a "grand army," and the extermination of the English.

It seems very probable that this matter will finally result in a revolution of men and things in that quarter of the world, which will pave the way for free intercourse with the unnumbered millions, who, with their forefathers, have, for thousands of years, been secluded from the rest of the world, from all or most of the improvements of modern science, as well as from the glorious light and blessings of the gospel.

Who knows but five or ten years will open, as it were, a new world-a new field of enterprise for the research of antiquarians, geographers, and historians-a new vineyard or harvest for the missionaries of the fulness [fullness]of the gospel, and awake four hundred millions, (or near one half of the inhabitants of the globe,) from the stupidity of their long long midnight slumbers, to a realising [realizing] sense of things which pertain to the latter day glory, and to the immediate and everlasting welfare of themselves and all mankind. Should this be the result of present movements, it may be considered as a new era in the history of the world, and a sure and certain prelude to the approaching day of the Lord, which may God grant for Christ's sake. Amen.

It will be seen from our extracts from the Nauvoo news in this number, that the saints in America are alive to the interests of the kingdom of God, and are prospering in all things pertaining to the great work of the last days, in a manner which cannot fail to afford unspeakable joy to the hearts of the friends of Zion, who are yet scattered in distant countries.

We feel to say to our brethren in Zion, "Go-a-head in all things pertaining to the establishing of the church and



635


________________________________________


kingdom of God on earth, and here is our heart and hand, though distant in body, yet present in spirit, joying and beholding your order."

We long to see the time when we shall again behold you in the flesh, in the midst of rejoicing millions, and in the full enjoyment of liberty and light, both in Missouri and in all the states and territories where Jehovah may see fit to establish his people.

The same spirit which moves upon the saints in Zion to "arise and build" and establish her stakes, and enlarge her borders, is mighty in us to spread the truth among the nations, and to gather the sheep from all the countries where they have been scattered as a prey to false shepherds.

The news from all parts of the vineyard on this side of the water is truly cheering.

The work is spreading in the face of all the opposition of the lying editors and priests: it seems to laugh its foes to scorn, and pursue its joyful way as if no obstacles had intervened.

Here in Manchester some thirty persons were added to the church in about three weeks, and are now rejoicing in the truth.

In Rochdale, some twelve were being baptized and confirmed at once.

In Stockport also there is a great increase in numbers, and in faith and love, if we are rightly informed by Br Whitehead with whom we lately conversed, and who is laboring there with great success.

We have also learned from the Isle of Man, that the church there has begun to lay hold of a greater degree of faith and union, and that they are increasing both in numbers and in gifts.

We have received an interesting account from Elder A. Cordon of a debate held in Drayton, on the 20th July, between himself and a Wesleyan minister, in which truth triumphed, and much good was done. We hope to give it in full in our next.

We have also received a communication from Elder Adams, giving a very interesting account of his labors in London, and of two debates held by him on the one part, and a Baptist minister, and afterwards a Mr. Allen, on the other part. These discussions were well attended, and resulted in much good. A great work seems to be going on in London, multitudes seem to be convinced of the truth, and many are being added by repentance and baptism. Elder Snow writes from London, under date of Aug. 21st, as follows:-"Dear Brother, this morning I occupy a few moments in communicating a general view of the present state and prosperity of the London conference. Six months since, when I took charge of this conference, we numbered less than one hundred members; since that time the conference has increased to the number of more than two hundred and twenty. I have recently had the pleasure of spending three weeks in Bedford and vicinity. My heart truly rejoiced to witness the good order, peace, and love prevailing among them. The zeal and untiring perseverance of the officers of the church in Bedford, in leaving their homes on Sunday mornings, having labored with their hands all the week, and walking some eight or ten miles to proclaim the fulness [fullness] of the gospel, is truly worthy of commendation and of imitation by all those who labor in the name and by the authority of Jesus Christ. During the time I was in Bedford twenty-three persons were baptized into Zion's fold, in that place and vicinity."

Elder Levi Richards, writes from Monmouth, Aug. 31st, stating that he had lately met the officers in Garway conference, in council, after an abscence [absence] of some four weeks, and was rejoiced to see a spirit of union and effort in the cause of Zion superior to any former occasion of the kind. About twenty had been baptized, and a dozen more places opened for preaching and generally well attended.

Elder Thomas Harris writes from Bristol under date Aug. 19. He informs us that the work of the Lord is moving onward in that city-that there are more or less obeying the Gospel every week-that many others seem to be believing, and many of our publications called for. The people there are beginning to enquire [inquire] after the matter for themselves, and the priests begin to cry delusions, imposters [impostors], deceivers, &c.

Elder Stephen Nixon writes from Doncaster, Yorkshire, under date of August 21st, informing us that he had lately commenced laboring in that place-that he had baptized two loca [local]



636


________________________________________


preachers and three members of the Aitkenite society. This was done in two or three days from the first introduction of the Gospel into that place. Many more are believing, and one more preacher had given his name for baptism.

Brother T. Taap writes from Paisley, August 23rd, as follows:-Dear Brother,-There is nothing but love and unity in our midst, and all is life and joy. We have laid siege to the empire of Satan, and expect, with the help of God, to reap a plentiful harvest of souls. We take four stations on Sunday mornings in the town, and then two go to Nielston. They have broken ground there, and baptized the first last week; two go to Barshead, where some are making enquiry [inquiry], but none baptized yet; two more start for Renfrew. They have baptized, I think, seventeen in that place. They organised [organized] that branch last Sabbath. You see we are all at work, and the Lord is blessing us abundantly, which gives us great joy.

City of Nauvoo, Illinois,

Mayor's Office, Dec. 9th, A. D. 1841.

Gentlemen of the City Watch:-You will accept of the lasting gratitude of the City Council, and your fellow-citizens at large, for the faithful performance of the important public trust heretofore reposed in you as the nocturnal guardians of their lives, and property. Justice to yourselves, and the public, requires that you should now be relieved from further duty, as watchmen-you are therefore, hereby disbanded.

Fellow-Citizens:-I have issued a requisition to Gen. Joseph Smith for a new City Watch, to be detailed from the military forces of the Corporation-he will, therefore, be obeyed accordingly, and the men of his choice respected in their station until relieved, and disbanded, by the civil authorities.

JOHN C. BENNETT, Mayor.

An Ordinance in relation to hawkers, pedlars [peddlers], and public shows and exhibitions.

Sec. 1. Be it ordained by the City Council of the City of Nauvoo, that it shall not be lawful for any person or persons, usually denominated hawkers and pedlars [peddlers], to hawk or carry about from place to place in this city, any goods, wares, or merchandise, excepting such as are manufactured within the limits of this Corporation, who shall not, previously to selling or offering for sale, such goods, wares, or merchandise, have obtained a license therefor from this Corporation, signed by the Mayor, and counter-signed by the Recorder, for which he, she, or they shall, at the time of obtaining the same, pay a sum not exceeding fifty dollars, nor less than ten dollars; and such person or persons as aforesaid, who may be found hawking about any goods or merchandise, except as aforesaid, and selling or offering the same for sale without a license therefor, shall forfeit and pay for each and every such offence [offense] the sum of twenty dollars: and any person or persons who shall refuse to exhibit his, her, or their license so obtained, upon being required by any citizen so to do, shall forfeit and pay the sum of five dollars for each and every such refusal: Provided, that nothing in the foregoing shall be construed to require a license for hawking about for sale any articles of poultry, fish, meat, bread-stuffs, butter, cheese, eggs, or vegetables; or such perishable merchandise as is used for food.

Sec. 2. That all licenses granted by this Corporation to hawkers or pedlars[peddlers], shall expire on the first Monday of November next following the date of such license.

Sec. 3. That any person or persons desiring to exhibit, within this Corporation, any curiosities of nature or art, not inconsistent with decency, or contrary to good morals, shall procure a license as aforesaid, for which he, she, or they, shall pay a sum not exceeding fifty dollars, nor less than ten dollars; and the said license shall continue in force for one week and no longer: and such person or persons as aforesaid, who may be found in open violation of this section, shall forfeit and pay for each and every such offence [offense] the sum of fifty dollars: all exhibtions [exhibitions] inconsistent with decency, or contrary to good morals, are expressly prohibited under the penalty of one hundred dollars for each offence [offense].

Sec. 4. This ordinance to take effect, and be in force, from and after its passage. Passed-Nov. 27, A. D. 1841.

JOHN C. BENNETT, Mayor.

JAMES SLOAN, Recorder.



637


________________________________________


OFFICERS OF THE CITY OF NAUVOO

Mayor-John C. Bennett. Surveyor-A. Ripley.

Recorder-James Sloan. Assessor and Collector-Lewis Robison.

Attorney-Sidney Rigdon. Supervisor of Streets-James Allred.

Notary Public-E. Robinson. Weigher and Sealer-Theodore Turley.

Marshal-H. G. Sherwood. Market Master-Stephen Markham.

Marshal ad interim-D. B. Huntington. Sexton-W. D. Huntington.

Treasurer-John S. Fulmer.

FIRST WARD.

Aldermen-Samuel H. Smith, Hiram Kimball.

Councillors [Councilors]-John P. Green, Vinson Knight, Orson Pratt, Willard Richards.

High Constable-D. B. Huntington.

SECOND WARD.

Aldermen-N. K. Whitney, Orson Spencer.

Councillors [Councilors]-Hyrum Smith, Lyman Wight, Wilford Woodruff, John Taylor.

High Constable-George Morey.

THIRD WARD.

Aldermen-Daniel H. Wells, Gustavus Hills.

Councillors [Councilors]-John T. Barnett, C. C. Rich, Hugh McFall, H. C. Kimball.

High Constable-Lewis Robison.

FOURTH WARD.

Aldermen-William Marks, George W. Harris.

Councillors [Councilors]-Joseph Smith, Wilson Law, Brigham Young, William Law.

High Constable-W. D. Huntington.

The City Council consists of the Mayor, Aldermen, and Councillors [Councilors], and sits on the first and third Saturday of every month, commencing at 6 o'clock, P.M.

MUNICIPAL COURT.

Chief-Justice-John C. Bennett.

Associate-Justices-Samuel H. Smith, Hiram Kimball, N. K. Whitney, Orson Spencer, Daniel H. Wells, Gustavus Hills, William Marks, George W. Harris.

Clerk-James Sloan.

The Municipal Court sits on the first Monday in every month, commencing at 10 o'clock, A. M.

MAYOR'S COURT.

This is the Criminal Court of the city, and sits at such times as the business of the city requires-the Mayor presiding.

CAUTION!

The public are cautioned against one Dr. William Campbell, alias Samuel Rogers, a professed phrenologist. Sometime in September last he joined a branch of this church, in Mercer county in this State, where he obtained a recommend from the elders of that branch, as a member in good standing. He soon after got married to a young lady of that neighborhood, when he apparently commenced business-he got in debt as much as possible, until the latter part of November, when he borrowed a horse and some guns under the pretext of going a hunting, and left the country. Some suspicions resting upon him he was followed, and the horse obtained, but the guns had been sold; he made his escape.

It has since been ascertained that he has two others wives, one in Ohio, and the other in this State. He undoubtedly joined the church for a cloak to his iniquity.

POETRY

For the Times and Seasons.

HYMN-C. M.

BY A CONVERTED JEW.

Behold the temple of the Lord No strife shall wound Messiah's reign

In latter days shall rise Or mar the Peaceful years;

Above the mountains and the hills To plough-shares now they beat their swords

And draw our won'dring eyes. To pruning-hooks their spears.

To this the joyful nations round, Come, then, O come from every land,

All lands and tongues shall flow: To worship at his shrine;

Up to the hill of God, they'll cry, And walking in the light of God,

And to his house we'll go. With peace and glory shine.

The beam that shines in Zion's hill,

Shall lighten every land;

The King who reigns in Zion's towers

Shall the whole world command.

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN.

I have appointed Willard Richards Recorder for the Temple, who will receive all property devoted to the building of the Temple and enter the same, at the Recorder's office in the lower room of the new store. JOSEPH SMITH,

Nauvoo, Dec. 15 Trustee in Trust.

MR. WM. CROSS from Eng. Manufacturer of Instantaneous Friction Lights, (Matches) to be had wholesale and retail at his lodgings with Mr. Neibaur Surgeon Dentist, opposite Mr. Tidwell the Cooper on the water.

Nauvoo, Dec. 15th,--tf.

HEBREW AND GERMAN

A. NEIBAUR Surgeon Dentist, (a German Jew,) will give instruction in the above Languages during the winter season.

Residence S. E. Water St. opposite the coopers.

E ROBINSON, Editor and Proprietor.



638


Retrieved from "https://www.fairlatterdaysaints.org/answers/index.php?title=Times_and_Seasons/3/4&oldid=197775"