Times and Seasons/6/22

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Times and Seasons 6, Number 22

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Source document in Mormon Publications: 19th and 20th Centuries online archive: Times and Seasons Vol. 6]

TIMES AND SEASONS
"TRUTH WILL PREVAIL"
Volume VI. No. 22.]	CITY OF NAUVOO, ILL. FEB. 1, 1846	[Whole No. 130.

HISTORY OF JOSEPH SMITH.

CONTINUED.

June 22nd; Cornelius Gillium, the sheriff of Clay county, came to the camp to hold consultation with us, I marched my company into a grove near by and formed in a circle, with Gillium in the centre [center]. Gillium commenced by saying that he had heard that Joseph was in the camp and if so he would like to see him. I arose and replied, "I am the man." This was the first time that I had been discovered or made known to my enemies since I left Kirtland. Gillium then gave us some instruction concerning the manners, customs and disposition of the people, &c., and what course we ought to secure their favor and protection, making certain enquiries [inquiries], to which we replied, which were afterwards published and will appear under date of publication. July 2nd, I received the following:

Revelation given on Fishing River, Missouri, June 22, 1834.

Verily I say unto you, who have assembled yourselves together that you may learn my will concerning the redemption of mine afflicted people:

Behold, I say unto you, were it not for the transgressions of my people, speaking concerning the church and not individuals, they might have been redeemed even now: but behold, they have not learned to be obedient to the things which I require at their hands, but are full of all manner of evil, and do not impart of their substance, as becometh saints, to the poor and afflicted among them, and are not united according to the union required by the law of the celestial kingdom: and Zion cannot be built up unless it is by the principles of the law of the celestial kingdom, otherwise I cannot receive her unto myself; and my people must needs be chastened until they learn obedience, if it must needs be, by the things which they suffer.

I speak not concerning those who are appointed to lead my people, who are the first elders of my church, for they are not all under this condemnation; but I speak concerning my churches abroad; there are many who will say, Where is their God? Behold, he will deliver in time of trouble; otherwise we will not go up unto Zion, and will keep our moneys.-Therefore, in consequence of the transgression of my people, it is expedient in me that mine elders should wait for a little season for the redemption of Zion, that they themselves may be prepared, and that my people may be taught more perfectly, and have experience, and know more perfectly, concerning their duty, and the things which I require at their hands; and this cannot be brought to pass until mine elders are endowed with power from on high: for behold, I have prepared a great endowment and blessing to be poured out upon them inasmuch as they are faithful, and continue in humility before me; therefore, it is expedient in me that mine elders should wait for a little season, for the redemption of Zion: for behold, I do not require at their hands to fight the battles of Zion; for, as I said in a former commandment, even so will I fulfil [fulfill], I will fight your battles.

Behold, the destroyer I have sent forth to destroy and lay waste mine enemies; and not many years hence, they shall not be left to pollute mine heritage, and to blaspheme my name upon the lands which I have consecrated for the gathering together of my saints.

Behold, I have commanded my servant Baurak Ale to say unto the strength of my house, even my warriors, my young men and middle aged, to gather together for the redemption of my people, and throw down the towers of mine enemies, and scatter their watchmen; but the strength of mine house has not hearkened unto my words; but inasmuch as there are those who have hearkened unto my words, I have prepared a blessing and an endowment for them, if they continue faithful. I have heard their prayers, and will accept their offering; and it is expedient in me, that they should be brought thus far, for a trial of their faith.

And now, verily I say unto you, a commandment I give unto you, that as many as have come up hither, that can stay in the region round about, let them stay; and those that cannot stay, who have families in the east, let them tarry for a little season, inasmuch as my servant Joseph shall appoint unto them, for I will counsel him concerning this matter; and all things whatsoever he shall appoint unto them shall be fulfilled.

And let all my people who dwell in the regions round about, be very faithful, and prayerful, and humble before me, and reveal not the things which I have revealed unto them, until it is wisdom in me that they should be revealed. Talk not judgment, neither boast of faith, nor of many works; but carefully

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gather together, as much in one region as can be consistently with the feelings of the people; and behold, I will give unto you favor and grace in their eyes, that you may rest in peace and safety, while you are saying unto the people, execute judgment and justice for us according to law, and redress us of our wrongs.

Now, behold, I say unto you, my friends, in this way you may find favor in the eyes of the people, until the army of Israel becomes very great: and I will soften the hearts of the people, as I did the heart of Pharaoh, from time to time, until my servant Baurak Ale, and Baneemy, whom I have appointed, shall have time to gather up the strength of my house, and to have sent wise men, to fulfil [fulfill] that which I have commanded concerning the purchasing of the lands in Jackson county, that can be purchased, and in the adjoining counties round about; for it is my will that these lands should be purchased, and after they are purchased that my saints should possess them according to the laws of consecration which I have given; and after these lands are purchased, I will hold the armies of Israel guiltless in taking possession of their own lands, which they have previously purchased with their moneys, and of throwing down the towers of mine enemies, that may be upon them, and scattering their watchmen, and avenging me of mine enemies, unto the third and fourth generation of them that hate me.

But firstly, let my army become very great, and let it be sanctified before me, that it may become fair as the sun, and clear as the moon, and that her banners may be terrible unto all nations; that the kingdoms of this world may be constrained to acknowledge that the kingdom of Zion is in very deed the kingdom of our God and his Christ: therefore, let us become subject unto her laws.

Verily I say unto you, it is expedient in me that the first elders of my church should receive their endowment from on high, in my house, which I have commanded to be built unto my name in the land of Kirtland: and let those commandments which I have given concerning Zion and her law, be executed and fulfilled, after her redemption. There has been a day of calling, but the time has come for a day of choosing; and let those be chosen that are worthy; and it shall be manifested unto my servant, by the voice of the Spirit, those that are chosen, and they shall be sanctified: and inasmuch as they follow the counsel which they receive, they shall have power after many days to accomplish all things pertaining to Zion.

And again I say unto you, sue for peace, not only the people that have smitten you, but also to all people; and lift up an ensign of peace, and make a proclamation for peace unto the ends of the earth; and make proposals for peace unto those who have smitten you, according to the voice of the Spirit which is in you, and all things shall work together for your good: therefore be faithful, and behold, and lo! I am with you even unto the end, even so; Amen."

About this time brothers Thayer and Hayes were attacked with the cholera, and brother Hancock was taken during the storm. I called the camp together and told them that in consequence of the disobedience of some who had been unwilling to listen to my words, but had rebelled, God had decreed that sickness should come upon them, and that they should die like sheep with the rot, that I was sorry but could not help it. Previous to this, while on our journey, I had predicted and warned them of the danger of such chastisements; but there is some who would not give heed to my words.

On the 23rd; resumed our march for Liberty, Clay county, taking a circuitous course round the heads of Fishing River, to avoid the deep water. When within five or six miles of Liberty, we were met by Gen. Atchison and other gentlemen who desired us not to go to Liberty, as the feelings of the people were so much enraged against us. At their communication we wheeled to the left, and crossing the prairie, and wood and, came to Sidney Gilbert's residence, and encamped on the bank of Rush Creek, in Bro. Burgharts field. During this a council of High Priests assembled in fulfilment [fulfillment] of the revelation given the day previous, and the following individuals were called and chosen as they were made manifest unto me by the voice of the Spirit, and Revelation, to receive their endowment.

Edward Partridge was called and chosen, to go to Kirtland and receive his endowment with power from on high, and also, to stand in his office of Bishop to purchase lands in the State of Missouri.

Wm. W. Phelps was called and chosen, and it was appointed unto him for to receive his endowment with power from on high, and help to carry on the printing establishment in Kirtland, until Zion is redeemed.

Isaac Morley and John Corrill were called and chosen, and it was appointed unto them to receive their endowment with power from on high in Kirtland and assist in gathering up the strength of the Lord's house and preach the gospel.

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John Whitmer and David Whitmer were called and chosen, and appointed to receive their endowments in Kirtland and continue in their offices.

Algernon S. Gilbert, was called and chosen, and appointed to receive his endowment in Kirtland, and to assist in gathering up the strength of the Lord's house, and to proclaim the everlasting gospel until Zion is redeemed. But he said he "could not do it."

Peter Whitmer Jun., Simeon Carter, Newel Knight, Parley P. Pratt, Christian Whitmer, and Solomon Hancock were called and chosen; and it was appointed unto them to receive their endowment in Kirtland, with the power from on high; to assist in gathering up the strength of the Lord's house; and to preach the everlasting gospel.

Thomas B. Marsh was called and chosen; and it was appointed unto him to receive his endowment in Kirtland, his office to be made known hereafter.

Lyman Wight was called and chosen; and it was appointed unto him to receive his endowment in Kirtland, with power from on high; and to return to Zion and have his office appointed unto him hereafter.

The same day the elders made the following reply, as before referred to, to "S. C. Owens, and others, committee" of the Jackson mob.

"We the undersigned committee, having full power and authority to settle and adjust all matters and differences existing between our people or society and the inhabitants of Jackson county, upon honorable and constitutional principles; therefore, if the said inhabitants of Jackson county will not let us return to our lands in peace:-we are willing to propose firstly; that twelve disinterested men, six to be chosen by our people, and six by the inhabitants of Jackson county; and these twelve men shall say what the lands of those men are worth in the county who cannot consent to live with us, and they shall receive their money for the same in one year from the time the treaty is made, and none of our people shall enter the county to reside till the money is paid. The said Twelve men shall have power also, to say what the damages shall be for the injuries we have sustained in the destruction of property and in being driven from our possessions, which amount of damages shall be deducted from the amount for their lands. Our object is peace, and an early answer will be expected.

(Signed) W. W. PHELPS,

EDWARD PARTRIDGE,

ISAAC MORLEY,

JOHN CORRILL,

JOHN WHITMER,

A. S. GILBERT."

June 24th, this night the cholera burst forth among us, and about midnight it was manifest in its most terrified form. Our ears were saluted with cries and moanings, and lamentations on every hand; even those on guard fell to the earth with their guns in their hands, so sudden and powerful was the attack of this terrible disease. At the commencement I attempted to lay on hands for their recovery, but I quickly learned by painful experience, that when the great Jehovah decrees destruction upon any people, makes known his determination, man must not attempt to stay his hand. The moment I attempted to rebuke the disease, that moment I was attacked, and had I not desisted, I must have saved the life of my brother by the sacrifice of my own, for when I rebuked the disease it left him and seized me.

Early on the morning of the 25th the camp was separated into small bands, and dispersed among the brethren living in the vicinity, and I wrote & sent by express, to "Messrs. Thornton, Donaphon and Atchison," as follows:

"Rush Creek, Clay county, June 25th 1834.

Gentlemen;-Our company of men advanced yesterday from their encampment beyond Fishing River to Rush Creek, where their tents are again pitched. But feeling disposed to adopt every pacific measure that can be done, without jeopardizing our lives, to quiet the prejudices and fears of some part of the citizens of this county, we have concluded that our company shall be immediately dispersed and continue so, till every effort for an adjustment of differences between us and the people of Jackson has been made on our part, that would in any wise be required of us by disinterested men of republican principles.

I am respectfully, your obed't serv't.

JOSEPH SMITH, JUN.

N. B. You are now corresponding with the Governor, (as I am informed) will you do us the favor to acquaint him of our efforts for a compromise. This information we want conveyed to the Governor, inasmuch as his ears are stifled with reports from Jackson of our hostile intentions, &c."

I left Rush Creek the same day, in company with David Whitmer and two other brethren, for the western part of Clay county. While travelling [traveling] we called at a house for a drink of water. The women of the house shouted from the door that they had "no water for Mormons, that they were afraid of the Cholera," &c,-We turned and departed, according to the commandment, and before a week had passed, (page 1106)

the cholera entered that house, and that woman and three others of the family were dead.

When the cholera made its appearance, Elder John S. Carter was the first man who stepped forward to rebuke it, and upon this, was instantly seized, and became the first victim in the camp. He died about six o'clock afternoon; and Seth Hitchcock died in about thirty minutes after, as it was impossible to obtain coffins, the brethren rolled them in blankets, carried them on a horse sled about half a mile; buried them in the bank of a small stream, which empties into Rush Creek, all of which was accomplished by dark. When they had returned from the burial, the brethren united, covenanted and prayed, hoping the disease would be staid [stayed]; but in vain, for while thus covenanting, Eber Wilcox died, and while some were digging the grave others stood sentry with their fire arms, watching their enemies.

June 26th; the elders wrote Governor Dunklin as follows:

"Sir: A company of our people, exceeding two hundred men, arrived in this county the 19th inst., and encamped about twelve miles from Liberty, where they were met, by several gentlemen from this and Ray county, who went by request of the people, to ascertain the motives and design of our people in approaching this county, and as the deputation was composed of gentlemen who appeared to posses humane and republican feelings, our people were rejoiced at the opportunity of an interchange of feelings and an open and frank avowal of all their views and intentions in emigrating to this country with their arms. A full explanation having been given in a public address by our brother Joseph Smith Jun., which produced great satisfaction, the same in substance was afterwards reduced in writing and handed to the aforesaid gentlemen that it might be made public, as the shedding of blood is, and ever has been, foreign and revolting to our feelings, for this reason, we have patiently endured the greatest indignities that freemen of this republic have ever been called to suffer, and we still continue to bear with heart rending feelings a deprivation of our right having commenced negociations [negotiations] with the inhabitants of Jackson for a compromise wherein proposals, on our part, have been made which have been acknowledged by every disinterested man, to be highly honorable and liberal. An answer to our propositions has not yet been received from Jackson.

If we fail in this attempt, we intend to make another effort and go all lengths that would be required by human or divine law, as our proposals and correspondence with the inhabitants of Jackson, will doubtless hereafter be published, we think it unnecessary to detail the same in this communication, our right to our soil in Jackson county we shall for ever claim, and to obtain peaceful possession, we are willing to make great sacrifices. To allay excitement in the county, the aforesaid company of emigrants have dispersed to await the final end of all negotiations that can be made with the said county of Jackson.

Within the last week, one of our men being near the ferry, was seized by some Jackson citizens, while in this county, threatened with death if he made resistance, and carried over the river, prisoner to Independence, where he was put under guard one day, and after bearing many threats, was liberated. The houses of several of our brethren in this county have been forcibly entered by some of the inhabitants of Jackson, and a number of guns and small arms taken therefrom, where the men were absent from their houses, loaded guns were presented to the females, and their lives threatened if they made resistance, and we have been informed, and have no doubt of the fact.

Your second order for the restoration of our arms, was received last mail; we have not yet done any thing with it. Hoping that the influence of the inhabitants of Jackson county, will materially lesson in the surrounding counties, and the people become more tranquil, we think it wisdom to defer petitioning for a guard, while there exists a hope of a compromise, &c.

We believe that the President would render us assistance in obtaining possession of our lands, if aided by the executive of this state in a petition and thereby put an end to serious evils that are growing out of the Jackson outrage. In a letter from your excellency, of April 20th, we had a word on the subject of petitioning. We should be pleased to hear further, and would here observe that no communication from the executive, giving his opinion or advice, will be made public, if requested not to do so.

We are respectfully, and with great regard

Your obed't serv'ts,

A. S. GILBERT,

W. W. PHELPS,

JOHN CORRILL."

The drafting and signing of the above, was the last public act of the keeper of the Lord's storehouse, Algernon S. Gilbert, for he was attacked with the cholera the same day, and died in a few hours, according to his own words that he "would rather die than go forth to preach the gospel to the Gentiles."

The following is from the chairman of the committee of the Jackson mob, to our lawyer:

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"Independence, Mo., June 26, 1834.

Mr. Amos Reese;

Dear Sir.: Since my return from Liberty, I have been busily engaged in conversing with the most influential men of our county, endeavoring to find out if possible, what kind of a compromise will suit with the Mormons on their part. The people here, enmass, I find out, will do nothing like according to their last proposition. We will have a meeting if possible, on Monday next, at which time the proposals of the Mormons will be answered. In the mean time, I would be glad, that they, the Mormons, would cast an eye back of Clinton and see if that is not a country calculated for them."

Yours Respectfully,

S. C. OWENS."

The cholera continued its ravages about four days, when an effectual remedy for their purging, vomiting, and cramping was discovered; viz, dipping the person afflicted in cold water, or pouring it upon them, about sixty eight of the saints suffered from this disease, of which number thirteen died, viz. John S. Carter, Eber Wilcox, Seth Hitchcock, Erastus Rudd, Algernon Sidney Gilbert, Alfred Frisk, Edward Ives, Noah Johnson, Jesse B. Lawson, Robert McCord, Eliah Strong, Jesse Smith and Betsy Parish.

The last days of June I spent with my old Jackson county friends in the western part of Clay county.

On the first of July I crossed the Missouri river, in company with a few friends, into Jackson county, to set my feet once more on the "goodly land" and on the 2nd I went down near Liberty and visited the brethren. This day the 'Enquirer' the correspondence between the Sheriff and the camp, of the 22nd of June as follows:

GILLIUM'S COMMUNICATION.

"Being a citizen of Clay county, and knowing that there is considerable excitement amongst the people thereof: and also knowing that different reports are arriving almost hourly: and being requested of the Hon. J. F. Ryland, to meet the Mormons under arms, and obtain from the leaders thereof the correctness of the various reports in circulation; the true intent and meaning of their present movements, and their views generally regarding the difficulties existing between them and Jackson county:-I did in company with other gentlemen, call upon the said leaders of the Mormons, at their camp in Clay county; and now give to the people of Clay county their written statement, containing the substance of what passed between us."

(signed.) CORNELIUS GILLIUM,

"PROPOSITIONS &c. OF THE MORMONS."

Being called, upon by the above named gentlemen, at our camp in Clay county, to ascertain from the leaders of our men, our intentions, views, and designs, in approaching this county in the manner we have; we therefore, the more cheerfully comply with their request, because we are called upon by gentlemen of good feeling, and who are disposed for peace and an amicable adjustment of the difficulties existing between us and the people of Jackson county. The reports of our intentions are various and have gone abroad in a light calculated to arouse the feeling of almost every man. For instance one report is, that we intend to demolish the Printing office in Liberty; another report is, that we intend crossing the Missouri river on Sunday next, and falling upon women and children and slaying them; another is, that our men were employed to perform this expedition, being taken from manufacturing establishments in the East, that had closed business: also that we carried a flag, bearing "peace" on one side and "war or blood" on the other; and various others too numerous to mention, all of which, a plain declaration of our intentions from under our own hands, will shew [show] are not correct.

In the first place, it is not our intention to commit hostilities against any man or set of men, it is not our intention to injure any man's person or property, except in defending ourselves. Our flag has been exhibited to the above gentlemen who will be able to describe it. Our men were not taken from any manufacturing establishment. It is our intention to go back upon our lands in Jackson county, by order of the executive of the State, if possible. We have brought our arms with us for the purpose of self defence [defense], as it is well known to almost every man of the State, that we have every reason to put ourselves in an attitude of defence [defense], considering the abuse we have suffered in Jackson county. We are anxious for a settlement of the difficulties existing between us, upon honorable and constitutional principles.

We are willing for twelve disinterested men, six to be chosen by each party, and these men shall say what the possessions of those men are worth who cannot live with us in the county; and they shall have their money in one year; and none of the Mormons shall enter that county to reside until the money is paid. The damages that we have sustained in consequence of being driven away, shall also be left to the above twelve men, or they may all live in the county, if they choose, and we will never molest them if they let us alone, and permit us to enjoy our rights. We want to live in peace

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with all men, and equal rights is all we ask. We wish to become permanent citizens of this state, and wish to bear our proportion in support of the government and to be protected by its laws. If the above propositions are complied with, we are willing to give security on our part: and we shall want the same of the people of Jackson county for the performance of this agreement. We do not wish to settle down in a body, except where we can purchase the land with money; for to take possession by conquest of the shedding of blood, is entirely foreign to our feelings. The shedding of blood we shall not be guilty of, until all just and honorable means among men prove insufficient to restore peace."

Signed JOSEPH SMITH, Jun.

F. G. WILLIAMS,

LYMAN WIGHT,

RODGER ORTON,

ORSON HYDE,

JOHN S. CARTER,

To John Lincoln, John Sconce, Geo. R. Morehead, Jas. H. Long, James Collins.

On the third of July, the High Priests of Zion assembled in Clay county, and I proceeded to organize a High Council, agreeably to revelation given at Kirtland, for the purpose of settling important business that might come before them, which could not be settled by the bishop and his council. David Whitmer was elected president, and W. W. Phelps and John Whitmer, assistant presidents. The following High priests, viz, Christian Whitmer, Newel Knight, Lyman Wight, Calvin Beebe, Wm. E. McLellin, Solomon Hancock, Thomas B. Marsh, Simeon Carter, Parley P. Pratt, Orson Pratt, John Murdoch, Levi Jackman, were appointed councillors [councilors] and the council adjourned to Monday.

Frederick G. Williams was clerk to the meeting.

From this time I continued of [to?] give instruction to the members of the High council, Elders, those who had travelled [traveled] in the camp with me, and such others as desired information, until the 7th, when the council assembled according to adjournment, at the house of Elder Lyman Wight, present fifteen High priests, eight elders, four priests, eight teachers, three deacons, and members.

After singing and prayer I gave the council such instruction in relation to their high calling, as would enable them to proceed to minister in their office agreeably to the pattern heretofore given; read the revelation on the subject; and told them that if I should now be taken away, I had accomplished the great work the Lord had laid before me, and that which I had desired of the Lord; and that I had done my duty in organizing the High council, through which council the will of the Lord might be known on all important occasions, in the building up of Zion, and establishing truth in the earth.

It was voted that those who were appointed on the third should be confirmed in their appointments. I then ordained David Whitmer, president, and W. W. Phelps and John Whitmer assistants; and their twelve councillors [councilors]; the twelve councillors [councilors] then proceeded to cast lots, to know who should speak first, and the order of speaking, which resulted as follows: viz

Simeon Carter, 1 Parley P. Pratt, 2

Wm E. Me Lellin, [Mc Lellin] 3 Calvin Beebe 4

Levi Jackman, 5 Solomon Hancock 6

Christian Whitmer 7 Newel Knight 8

Orson Pratt 9 Lyman Wight 10

Thomas B. Marsh 11 John Murdoch 12

Father Whitmer came forward and blessed his three sons, David, John and Christian Whitmer, in the name of the Lord. Also Father Knight blessed his son, Newel. Bishop Partridge stated to the council that a greater responsibility rested upon him than before their organization, as it was not his privilege to counsel with any of them except the president, and his own councillors [councilors], and desired their prayers that he might be enabled to act in righteousness.

I next presented the case of W. W. Phelps, to the council, to have their decision whether he should take his family to Kirtland, and if so, when he shall start; as it had been deemed necessary for him to assist in the Printing establishment, it was motioned and carried that four of the councillors [councilors] speak on the subject, two on each side, viz. Simeon Carter, and Wm. E. Mc Lellin, for the plaintiff; and Parley P. Pratt and Calvin Beebe for the church, after hearing the pleas, the president decided that it was the duty of W. W. Phelps to go to Kirtland to assist in printing, and that his family remain in the region where they were, and that he have an honorable discharge from his station in Zion for a season, (as soon as he can accomplish his business.) Signed by the President and clerk.

It was then proposed by W. W. Phelps, that David Whitmer, the president of the church in Zion, should go to Kirtland, and assist in promoting the cause of Christ, as being one of the three witnesses. This case was argued by Levi Jackman and Christian Whitmer on behalf of the plaintiffs, and Solomon Hancock and Newel Knight for the church; after which it was decided, as before, that Br. David Whitmer

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go to the East and assist in the great work, of the gathering and be his own judge as to leaving his family or taking them with him. It was also decided that John Whitmer and Wm. E. Mc Lellin go east, as soon as convenient.

The high priests, elders, priests, teachers, deacons and members present, then covenanted with hands uplifted to heaven, that you would uphold Br. David Whitmer, as president in Zion, in my absence, and John Whitmer and W. W. Phelps as assistant presidents or councillors [councilors], and myself as first president of the church, and one another by faith and prayer.

Previous to entering into this covenant, and in pursuance of the revelation to the saints to sue for, and proclaim peace to the ends of the earth. The following appeal was written, and sanctioned by the High council, and first presidency of the church, at the foregoing sitting.

President Whitmer closed the council by prayer.

F. G. WILLIAMS, Clerk.

AN APPEAL.

Whereas the church of Christ, recently styled the church of the Latter Day Saints, contumeliously called Mormons, or Mormonites, has suffered many privations, afflictions, persecutions and losses, on account of the religious belief and faith of its members, which belief and faith are founded in the revealed word of God, as recorded in the holy Bible, or the Book of Mormon, the Revelations and Commandments of our Savior, Jesus Christ; and whereas the said church, by revelation, commenced removing to the western boundaries of the State of Missouri, where lands were purchased of the Government, and where it was calculated to purchase of those who were unwilling to reside with the church as a society, all lands that could be bought, for the purpose of building up a holy city unto God, a New Jerusalem, a place where desirous to call Zion, as we believe a place of refuge from the scourges and plagues which are so often mentioned in the Bible by the prophets and apostles, that should be poured out upon the earth in the last days; and whereas the inhabitants of Jackson county, Missouri, have leagued and combined against said church, and have driven the saints from their lands, and took their arms from them and burned down many of their houses, without any provocation; and whereas we have petitioned the Governor of this State, and the President of the United States, for redress of wrongs, (the law being put to defiance in Jackson county,) and for redemption of rights, that we might be legally repossessed of our lands and property; and whereas the said inhabitants of Jackson county, have not only bound themselves to keep us out of that county, but have armed themselves, cap a pie, and even with cannon, for war; and whereas our people, residing in the upper Missouri, have recently armed themselves for military duty and self defence [defense], seeing their arms taken from them by the inhabitants of Jackson county, were purposely kept from them; and whereas a number of the members of the church in the east, have emmigrated [emigrated] to this region of country to settle and join their brethren, with arms to answer the military law, which has created some excitement among the inhabitants of the upper counties of this State; whereupon, to shew [show] that our object was only the peaceable possession of our rights and property, and to purchase more land in the regions round about, we met a committee from Jackson county for compromise; and our emigrating brethren met some gentlemen from Clay and other counties to satisfy them that their motives were good, and their object peace, which they did; and whereas the propositions of the Jackson committee could not be accepted on our part, because they proposed to "buy or sell," and to sell our land would amount to a denial of our faith as that land is the place where the Zion of God shall stand, according to our faith and belief in the revelations of God and upon which Israel will be gathered according to the prophets:-And, secondly, the propositions were unfair, notwithstanding they offered double price for our lands, in thirty days, or sell theirs at the same rate, for this plain reason, that the whole large county of Jackson would be as thirty to one, or nearly so, in comparison with the matter in question, and in supposition, for one thousand dollars, two thousand dollars to our people, was asking for three hundred thousand dollars, the exorbitant sum of six hundred thousand dollars, taking the land, rich and poor, in thirty days! with the reproachable, vicious, unamerican, and unconstitutional provision, that the committee on our part, bind themselves "that no Mormon should ever settle in Jackson county" and whereas our committee proposed to the said Jackson committee, (if they would not grant us our rights otherwise,) that our people would buy the land of those that were unwilling to live among our people, in that county, and pay them in one year, they allowing the damage we have sustained in the loss of a printing office, apparatus, and book work, houses, property, &c., to come out of the purchase money, but no answer returned; and whereas, to shew [show] our honest intentions, and awaken the friends of virtue, humanity & equal rights, it becomes our duty to lay our case before the world, to be weighed in the balances of public opinion:-

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Now, therefore, as citizens of the United States, and leading elders in the church of the Latter Day Saints, residing in the State of Missouri, in behalf of the church, we, the undersigned, do make this solemn appeal to the people and constitutional authorities of this nation and to the ends of the earth, for peace; that we may have the privilege of enjoying our religious rights and immunities, and worship God according to the dictates of our own consciences, as guaranteed to every citizen by the constitution of the National and State Governments. That, although the laws have been broken, and are defied in Jackson county, we may be enabled to regain and enjoy our rights and property, agreeable to law in this boasted land of liberty.

From the Millennial Star.

A DREAM.

I stood in the midst of a vast field, surrounded by an immense wilderness interwoven with lakes rivers, and streams. The field and wilderness were filled with lions, tigers, bears, wolves, and all manner of wild beasts; also horned cattle, horses, camels, dromedaries, mules, asses, goats, and all species of animals. I looked and beheld some sheep scattered abroad through all the field and wilderness among all the beasts of the field. The lord of the field said to his chief shepherd, "appoint twelve other shepherds, and send three east, three west, three north,, and three south, and let them appoint other shepherds to assist them, and gather together all my sheep throughout all the field and wilderness, for it is not meet in mine eyes that my sheep should remain scattered abroad among all the beasts of the field and forest, lest they be devoured." I saw that the shepherds went and labored with all their might, and gathered them together in flocks throughout all the field and wilderness, and appointed a shepherd over each flock. The lord of the field said to the chief shepherd, "Go to, now, call the twelve principal shepherds, and let them call upon all other shepherds, and let all join together, and prepare a safe pasture, in a choice piece of land, for all my sheep, and build a high wall around it, and build a high tower in the midst thereof, and let a great book be prepared and kept in the tower; let all my sheep be named, and let the shepherd over each flock send up the name of each sheep, that it may be recorded in the book, and all such shall have the privilege of coming in and out and pasture. Let there be a great covering go forth from the tower, that there may be a shelter for my sheep from the heat and tempest." And a chief shepherd, the twelve principal shepherds, went forth with others and labored with all their might to prepare the choice piece of land for a pasture for the sheep, and also to build the great tower. And while they were building the tower, lo! a great wonder appeared among the sheep. It was discovered that some of the sheep that had been fair to look on began to have great horns rise up, their teeth became like those of a lion, and their wool changed to long coarse hair, and they had claws as a bear; they had not the disposition of the sheep, but ran about and roared like the lion, desiring to destroy the sheep. They ran out of the flock and mingled with the wild beasts of the forest; and while many of the principal shepherds had gone out to call upon other shepherds to assist in building the tower, some of the strange beasts that had left the flock returned from the wilderness with a number of wolves to devour the flock. The chief shepherd with his brother, who also was a noble shepherd, with two of the principal shepherds, went out to meet them in order to save the flock. When they saw them they fell upon them and devoured the chief shepherd and his brother, and severely wounded one of the other two. But those of the principal shepherds who were abroad, hearing of the death of the two shepherds, immediately returned with those two who were not devoured in saving the flock. Then was there great mourning among all the shepherds and the flock, because the two chief shepherds were devoured. Nevertheless, the lord of the field said to the twelve principal shepherds. "cease not my work, neither let your hands be slack, but continue the building of the tower and preparing the pasture for the security of my sheep, for they must be saved." And they were joined by many other shepherds, and labored with greater diligence than ever, and the lord of the field helped them, and they reared the tower, and built the wall, and prepared the choice piece of ground, much faster than before. And the lord of the field said, "let a shepherd be appointed to visit the flocks of sheep that dwell among the great lion of the east, and see that their names are sent up to be recorded in the great book that is kept in the tower." And I thought in my dream, it fell to my lot to visit the flocks of sheep in the east. And according to the commandment of the lord of the field, I went to the flocks in the east, and found shepherds with all the flocks. Then I called upon the shepherds to send me the names of the sheep of their flocks, that they might be recorded in the great book of the tower, and most of the shepherds began to send to me the names of the flocks of sheep with them; and my soul was made glad, because of the shepherds hearkening

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to the commandment of the lord of the field, that the flocks might have a shelter from the approaching storm and heat. But there were some who did not send up their names to be recorded in the book. While I was passing through the wilderness, among the lions, I found a large flock of sheep very beautiful, with a faithful shepherd, and I asked him if he had sent up a list of the names of his sheep to be recorded in the great book, and he told me he had not, at which I wondered, but he said he would soon; so I went my way. The shepherd labored diligently to increase his flock, seek out all the sheep, and nourish the lambs, but he forgot to give them a name in the book of the tower, with all the sheep in the field; and I was much grieved and troubled in spirit for them, for they were so fair and beautiful I wished them to have a name and a place in the great tower, with all the sheep, that they might escape the storm.

When I had secured all the names that the shepherds sent, I returned to behold the great tower and goodly pasture and principal shepherds surrounded with thousands of other shepherds, and an almost innumerable number of sheep that the shepherds had gathered together: and I wondered with great admiration, for I beheld that the tower was finished, and the wall around the pasture, and the covering to shelter the sheep from the storm. While I was overwhelmed with joy at the magnificence of the sight, I cast my eyes upon a conspicuous part of the tower, and beheld written in large Hebrew Letters "Tower of Joseph, the Seer." At this moment I heard the lord of the field say to the leader of the twelve principal shepherds, go and bring the great book from the tower and read the names of my shepherds and sheep who have built this tower, and as he brought out the book, I saw on its back the following words, "Book of the Law of the Lord." As the leader of the twelve principal shepherds commenced to read the names, it seemed from the dead silence that prevailed among the myriads present as though all nature had ceased to breathe. A herald stood with a trumpet and proclaimed aloud each name as it was read from the book. Notwithstanding the great joy that rested upon many thousands of the shepherds and sheep that were present whose names were recorded in the book, I was grieved in spirit and wept much, for I had seen some fair and beautiful sheep among the great lion of the east whose names were not recorded in the book. Then I heard the voice of Lord of the field commanding the twelve principal shepherds, saying-call in all the shepherds and sheep whose names are written in the great book of the tower, and let all the great gates of the outer wall be shut, and let the shepherds gather all the sheep under the cover. The shepherds did as they were commanded, and when they were all gathered under the cover, there began to be a great heat from the sun for many days through all the wilderness and fields, save the green pasture which had a cover. And there was a great plague rested upon the sea, and all the fishes in the sea died, and all the rivers and streams of water through the field and wilderness dried up, and the herbs and grass were withered, and when none of the beasts of the forest or cattle could obtain water nor any green food, they became mad and began to devour each other, and there was a great destruction throughout the vast field and wilderness: the stronger devoured the weaker animals until they were all destroyed. The stronger then began to devour each other, until but few were left in all the forest. At the end of the heat there was a great storm of wind and rain, mingled with hail, even the weight of a talent, and it fell upon all the beasts of the forest who were not devoured by the first calamity, then they fled to the walls of the choice pasture for shelter, but they could not get in for the gates were shut. Their roaring without the walls in agony because of the falling of the hail made the sheep tremble within; nevertheless they were safe within the walls and under cover. In the midst of this calamity and judgment without, I was suffering in spirit within, fearing that some of the sheep whose names were not written in the great book of the tower were trampled down by the beasts of the forest or destroyed by the hail.

Whoever has the gift of interpreting dreams, and will give a true interpretation to the foregoing, will confer a favor on a shepherd of the East.