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Adams County, Illinois

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1842 Articles



"Quincy Whig" Office, Quincy, Illinois (early photograph)


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By S. M. Bartlett.]         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., Jan. 1, 1842.         [Vol. 4 - No. 36.


 

==> The Library Lecture, last Tuesday evening, was listened to by quite a numerous audience. The lecturer was Mr. J. H. HAVEN, who acquitted himself with great credit. His subject was Chemistry, and many of the experiments which he introduced on the occasion, in explaining some of the principles of the science, were witnessed with surprise and admiration by the company. We again invite the attention of the public to these lectures.


Note: See the Quincy Whig of Nov. 16, 1839 for a report of Jesse Haven's interview with the widow of Solomon Spalding. This Mormon Elder was the son of Brigham Young's uncle -- John Haven (1774-1853) of Holliston, Massachusetts -- Elder Jesse Haven's private journal is on file in the Archives of the LDS Church in Salt Lake City.


 



By S. M. Bartlett.]         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., Jan. 22, 1842.         [Vol. 4 - No. 39.


 

==> JOSEPH SMITH, Lieutenant General of the Nauvoo Legion, has a proclamation in the last "Times and Seasons," directing the Mormons in this State to vote for the locofoco candidates for Governor and Lieut. Governor next August. This is, indeed, a high-handed attempt to ursurp power, and to tyranise over the minds of men. We are sorry to see this move obn the part of President Smith -- not so much on account of the influence which his people voting in a body will have in the election -- but because, it will have a tendency to widen the breach which already exists between this people and those who are not of their faith, and as a consequence create difficulties and disturbances growing out of an unsettled state of feeling in the community. We should suppose that prudence would have dictated a different course to Mr. Smith. Why not let his people enjoy all the privileges guarantied to them by the Constitution of the country unbiased by their religious teachers? Why not allow them the exercise of their own best judgments in the choice of civil rulers? Have the whigs as a party so far departed from the principles of liberality which have always governed them, as to call forth this public demonstration of opposition? We have seen no evidence of it. Many of the Mormons -- in fact a great number of them -- are men of intelligence and patriotism, who will not be swayed to and fro in their support of men or party, by the dictum of their leader in the church, and to these we look for aid an assistance in carrying the principles of reform into our State Government. The Mormons have a right to vote for Snyder and Moore, if they choose, as a matter of course, -- but this clannish principle of voting in a mass, at the dictation of one man, and this man one who has acquired an influence over the minds of his people through a particular religious creed which he promulgates, is so repugnant in the principles of our Republican form of government, that its consequences and future effects will be disagreeable to think of -- bitter hatred and unrelenting hostility will spring up, where before peace and good will had an abiding place.

The following is the Proclamation alluded to. It is truly a curiosity in its way. We give it verbatim, with all its capitals and italics staring through it like pepper and salt in a dish of hotch-potch:


             From the Times and Seasons.
State Gubernatorial Convention.

CITY OF NAUVOO, ILLINOIS,              
December 20th, A. D. 1841.           

TO MY FRIENDS IN ILLINOIS: --
The Gubernatorial Convention of the State of Illinois have nominated Colonel ADAM W. SNYDER for GOVERNOR, and Col. JOHN MOORE for LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR of the State of Illinois -- election to take place in August next. --

COLONEL MOORE, like JUDGE DOUGLASS, and ESQ. WARREN, was an intimate friend of GEN. BENNETT long before that gentleman became a member of our community; and General Bennett informs us that no men were more efficient in assisting him to procure our great chartered privileges than were Colonel Snyder, and Colonel Moore. They are sterling men, and friends of equal rights -- opposed to the oppressor's grasp, and the tyrant's rod. With such men at the head of our State Government we have nothing to fear. In the next canvass we shall be influenced by no party consideration -- and no Carthagenian coalescence or collusion, with our people, will be suffered to affect, or operate against General Bennett or any other of our tried friends already semi-officially in the field;* so the partizans in this county who expect to divide the friends of humanity and equal rights will find themselves mistaken -- we care not a fig for Whig or Democrat; they are both alike to us; but we shall go for our friends, our TRIED FRIENDS, and the cause of human liberty which is the cause of God. We are aware that "divide and conquer" is the watch-word with many, but with us it cannot be done -- we love liberty too well -- we have suffered too much to be easily duped -- we have no cat's-paws amongst us. We voted for Gen. Harrison because we loved him -- he was a gallant officer and a tried statesman; but this is no reason why we should always be governed by his friends -- he is now DEAD, and all of his friends are not ours. We claim the privileges of freemen, and shall act accordingly. DOUGLASS is a Master Spirit, and his friends and our friends -- we are willing to cast our banners on the air, and fight by his side in the cause of humanity, and equal rights -- the cause of liberty and the law. SNYDER, and MOORE, are his fiends -- they are ours. These men are free from the prejudices and superstitions of the age, and such men we love, and such men will ever receive our support, be their political predilections what they may. Snyder, and Moore, are known to be our friends; their friendship are vouched for by those whom we have tried. We will never be justly charged with the sin of ingratitude -- they have served us, and we will serve them.
                     JOSEPH SMITH.
        Lieutenant General of the Nauvoo Legion.
__________
* It is understood from this that Gen. Bennett is in the fold, for Senator for Hancock -- This gentleman at present is General of the Nauvoo Legion, Mayor of Nauvoo, and Master in Chancery for Hancock county, and in addition, we believe, is a practising Physician. It seems to us, that he must also be a "Master Spirit," if he can fulfill all these duties and that of Senator to boot!


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



By John H. Pettit.]                Quincy, Illinois, Feb. 3, 1842.                 [Vol. 1. No. 20.


 

THE MORMON CIRCULAR. -- The Circular Letter of Joseph Smith, the far-famed Mormon Prophet, which appeared in the Times and Seasons a few weeks ago, is creating quite a sensation among the whig papers in this State. If Mr. Smith had proclaimed his determination to sustain the Whig nominees for Governor and Lieutenant Governor, we are doubtful whether most of the Whig editors in the State would not have pronounced it a righteous decision; but as the reserve is the fact, it is denounced as an act of high-handed presumption. In our opinion, there are two views to be taken of this letter. If Mr. Smith intended it as the expression of his own individual determination in regard to which of the candidates he would sustain, no fault can or ought to be found with it. Every man in this country has a perfect and undeniable right of expressing and publishing, if he sees proper, his opinions upon any or all subjects which may be in agitation before the people. This is a right which is guarantied by the great charter of our liberties, and a right which none dare question. Thus far, then, Mr. Smith has only exercised the privileges of an American citizen, and it does seem to us to be extremely foolish for conductors of the press to sneer at him for doing that which they themselves perpetrate every week of their lives. If, however, this letter was put forth as a sort of royal edict, as many seem to suppose, commanding all his followers, and all of the same faith or persuasion with himself, to vote for the men whom he did signify, then we will admit that it is presumption in the extreme. Mr. Smith has a right to vote for whom he pleases, and he has a right to express that determination in any way he sees peoper; but he has no right, either religious, moral. or political, to put chains upon the minds and wishes of his followers, and say to them -- you must vote as I direct! We hope, for the honor of Mr. Smith, that such was not his design; and if it was, we hope, for the honor and intelligence of the Mormons, that there is enough of independence and love of liberty among them, to treat his requisitions with the scorn and contempt they merit. They have forsaken the lands of their nativity, in order that they might enjoy their religion and worship God in their own way, without fear of dictation from others. If they now suffer one man to shackle their free thoughts and opinions, and use them to subserve his ends, instead of gaining that liberty which they have been seeking, they are the very worst of slaves.

It may seem to some, that we are operating against our own interest -- the interests of the Democratic nominees, in being thus free to express our sentiments in this matter. But we do not think so. A man who has not independence enough to think and act for himself, is no Democrat; and were we the candidate for Governor, we would not thank him for his vote, even though we were certain that without it we would be defeated. We feel as anxious for the success of Democratic principles, and the election of Col. Snyder, as any man in the State; but we wish to see those principles triumph upon their own merits -- we wish to see our candidate elected by freemen -- men who do not let others think and act for them. As for our own party, we shall pursue the course that we had marked out for ourself previous to the appearance of that circular, without any regard to anything contained therein, and trusting to no professions but those of truth and honesty. We hope our Democratic brethren will do the same, and not let promises from any quarter slacken their exertions.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



By S. M. Bartlett.]         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., February 12, 1842.         [Vol. 4 - No. 36.


 

==> The State Register announces the name of Dr. JOHN C. BENNETT, Mayor of Nauvoo, Master in Chancery for Hancock, and with a big military title also -- as a candidate to represent Hancock county in the lower branch of the next Legislature of this State. According to the Register, he is a "marvellous proper" man for the station. We believe Bennett has resided nearly two years in Hancock.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



By S. M. Bartlett.]         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., March 12, 1842.         [Vol. 4 - N. 46.


 

==> We perceive by the last Nauvoo "Times and Seasons." that Mr. Joseph Smith, prophet, &c. hs become the editor and proprietor of the paper, in place of Ebenezer Robinson, whose name appears to have been taken out of the paper "without a why or wherefore."

In this number General Smith, of the "Nauvoo Legion," "at the request of Mr. John Wentworth, editor and proprietor of the Chicago Democrat," gives a sketch of the "rise, progress, persecution and faith," of the religion of which he has "the honor of being the founder." Col. Wentworth, "editor and proprietor," &c. should now, in return for General Smith's favor, give a "sketch" of his own life and times, from the first dawn of his infant genius, up to his present high station, including, by way of illustration, the best method of manufactoring pumpkin pies, and the most expeditious manner of winding up a wooden clock, together with such other "small notions" in the way of "soft sodder," as will best enable the party to "come it" over the Mormons!


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



By S. M. Bartlett.]         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., April 9, 1842.         [Vol. 4 - No. 50.


 

==> We stated two weeks since, that Mr. Ebenezer Robinson, had "stepped out" of the "Times and Seasons" establishment at Nauvoo, without a "why or wherefore." We beg leave now to correct the error. Mr. Robinson has sent us a number of that paper which we had not before seen, containing his valedictory, in which his reasons for leaving the establishment are set forth at length.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



By S. M. Bartlett.]         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., May 14, 1842.         [Vol. 5 - No. 3.


 

--> It is only three years, this spring, since the first settlement was made at the great Christian city of Nauvoo. -- Chicago Dem.

This is not correct. We passed up the Mississippi seven years ago, and a large stone house standing on the banl of the river, beside several log tenements, showed that a settlement had been commenced there long before that. It was called Commerce. In your attempt to manufacture paragraphs flattering the Mormons, be sure to stick to the truth, Col.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



By S. M. Bartlett.]         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., May 21, 1842.         [Vol. 5 - No. 4.


 

==> ASSASSINATION OF EX-GOVERNOR BOGGS OF MISSOURI. -- Lilburn W. Boggs, late Governor of Missouri, was assassinated at his residence in Independence, Missouri, by an unknown hand, on the 6th inst. He was sitting in a room by himself, when some person discharged a pistol loaded with buck-shot, through an adjoining window -- three of the shot took effect in his head, one of which penetrated the brain. His son, a boy, hearing the report of the pistol, ran into the room in which his father was seated, and found him in a helpless situation, upon which he gave the alarm. Footprints were found beneath the window, and the pistol which gave the fatal shot. The Governor was alive on the 7th, but no hopes are entertained of his recovery. A man was suspected, and is probably arrested before this. There are several rumors in circulation in regard to the horrid affair. One of which throws the crime upon the Mormons -- from the fact, we suppose, that Mr. Boggs was governor at the time, and no small degree instrumental in driving them from the State. -- Smith too, the Mormon Prophet, as we understand, prophesied a year or so ago, his death by violent means. Hence, there is plenty of foundation for rumor. The citizens of Independence had offered a reward of $500 for the murderer.



GOV. DUNCAN'S ADDRESS to the people of this State will be found in this paper... The Governor has recently visited Greene and Jersey counties, and addressed the people in large numbers, The effect of his addresses in those counties, is a flattering augury of his success in August. The Grafton Phoenix, speaking of his address at Jerseyville, says:

"... The history of the Nauvoo Legion exposed the imbecility and want of independence of both political parties in the legislature. But the fact was somewhat startling, that through our lesislature, the prophet Jo Smith holds the highest military office in the State -- that of Lieutenant General...."


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



By S. M. Bartlett.]         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., May 28, 1842.         [Vol. 5 - No. 5.


 

==> GOV. BOGGS, is not yet dead, and the probability is, say the St. Louis papers, that he will recover.

Notes: (forthcoming)


 



By John H. Pettit.]                Quincy, Illinois, June 2, 1842.                 [Vol. 1. No. 37.


 

                    Nauvoo, May 27, 1842
To the Editor of the Quincy Herald:
SIR: -- On the 22d instant, I made a communication to the editor of the Whig, of which the following is a copy, and I will be obliged to you, sir, if you will do me the favor to insert the same in the Herald.
    I am, sir, most respectfully,
        Your servant,
                 JOSEPH SMITH.

                    Nauvoo, Ill., May 22, A. D. 1842.
MR. BARTLETT: --
Dear Sir: -- In your paper (the Quincy Whig,) of the 21st inst., you have done me manifest injustice, in ascribing to me a prediction of the demise of Lilburn W. Boggs, ex-Governor of Missouri, by violent hands. Boggs was a candidate for the State Senate, and I presume fell by the hand of a political opponent, with his "hands and face yet dripping with the blood of murder," but he died not through my instrumentality. My hands are clear, and my heart is pure from the blood of all men. I am tired of the misrepresentation, calumny, and detraction heaped upon me by wicked men, and desire and claim only that privilege guarantied to all men by the Constitution and laws of the United States and of Illinois. Will you do me the justice to publish this communication and oblige.
            Yours, respectfully,
                 JOSEPH SMITH.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



By S. M. Bartlett.]         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., June 4, 1842.         [Vol. 5 - No. 6.


 

                    NAUVOO, ILL., May 22d, A. D. 1842.
MR. BARTLETT --
Dear Sir: -- In your paper, (the Quincy Whig,) of the 21st inst., you have done me manifest injustice, in ascribing to me a prediction of the demise of Lilburn W. Boggs, ex-governor of Missouri, by violent hands. Boggs was a candidate for the State Senate, and I presume, fell by the hand of a political opponent, with his "hands and face yet dripping with the blood of murder," but he died not through my instrumentality. My hands are clean, and my heart is pure from the blood of all men. I am tired of the misrepresentation, calumny, and detraction heaped upon me by wicked men; and desire and claim only those privileges guarantied to all men by the Constitution and Laws of the United States and of Illinois.

Will you do me the justice to publish this communication and oblige.
            Yours, respectfully,
                 JOSEPH SMITH.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



By S. M. Bartlett.]         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., June 11, 1842.         [Vol. 5 - No. 7.



The Mormons -- Mr. Smith's Letter.

The people of Nauvoo take fire very easily. It appears by the "Wasp." (a little paper recently commenced in that city,) that at a "large and respectable meeting of the citizens of Nauvoo," a resolution was unanimously passed, "disapproving of the remarks of the Quincy Whig, in relation to the participation of Gen. Smith, in the violent death (he is not dead, by the way,) of Gov. Boggs ot Missouri, and unanimously concurring in the opinion that Gen. Smith had never made such a prediction." Well, we are pleased to be able to correct the rumor which was in circulation connecting Mr. Smith's name with the attempt upon the life of Gov. Boggs. But there was no necessity for taking all this trouble to correct the rumor aforesaid. The simple denial of Mr. S. would have been all sufficient. -- The resolution to our comprehension, evinces a disposition on the part of Mr. Smith and his friends, to proscribe, so far as their influence will go, the Quincy Whig, for pursuing a course customary with the newspaper press, viz: of publishing every thing of a news character, that may interest readers, whether as rumor or in a more direct and tangible shape. --

The time was, when Mr. Smith and his friends were not in quite as prosperous circumstances as at present, when they needed the assistance as well as the sympathy of the friends of humanity; in those gloomy times, even the Quincy Whig was looked upon by them with favor -- because it took a decided stand, as it ever will, in defence of the rights of man, and the constitution and laws of our country -- in reprobating the course pursued by the Missouri authorities towards the Mormons as a body, in "exterminating" them from that State. They acknowledged their friendship for us and our paper, soon after their settlements at Nauvoo, if we are not greatly mistaken, in passing a resolution with the purpose and intention, in a large and respectable meeting of the citizens" of the embryo city. This resolution we have yet among our papers, we believe -- and it may be necessary, if the Quincy Whig, is to be one of the journals proscribed by the head men in Nauvoo -- to show on their part, that time and prosperity has worn away that best feeling of the human heart -- gratitude.

In regard to Mr. Smith's letter -- we published it as soon after its receipt, as our paper was printed. As we do not publish a daily paper, we could not of course, make the letter public the same day it was received. The letter was dated the 22d May, and came to hand the 28th, after the Whig for that week had been struck off; and was therefore postponed until the next paper, which was the last week's number. All we have to say in reply to the letter is, that Mr. S. can see a design to "misrepresent" where none exists; and that before he condemns, it would be well to see if there is cause.



==> In a recent public meeting in Nauvoo, Mr. Joseph Smith "distinctly avowed his intention not to co-operate or vote with either the whig or democratic parties as such."


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



By S. M. Bartlett.]         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., June 18, 1842.         [Vol. 5 - No. 8.


 

==> CALVIN A. WARREN, Esq., of our city has broken out in a new place. We see by the Springfield papers of last week, that Calvin has been showing off before the people of that town, in reply to an address delivered by Gov. Duncan. Calvin is a Presbyterian we believe, -- but because his partner, James H. Ralston, wants to go to Congress so soon as the State is laid off into districts, and expects the voice and assistance of the people of Nauvoo to put him there -- he makes himself quite ridiculous in the endeavor to secure the support and favor of this people, for his partner, Ralston. With the Mormons, our pliant friend, forgets his Presbyterianism, and is almost ready to go down into the water with a Mormon elder -- while here, in Quincy, he laughs and cracks his jokes about "Joe" and his disciples, as though he held them and their religion in the most profound contempt. This speech over at Springfield, is a part of the same game he and Ralston have been playing for some time past, -- and as light as they may hold the penetration and discernment of the Mormons, we will wager a trifle, that they will be seen through and their motives thoroughly understood by the Nauvoo people, long before their selfish hopes and designs are consummated. In relation to Warren's speech at Springfield, we judge from the following paragraph in the Sangamo Journal, that he put in his gabble at the wrong time.

"Mr. Warren defended the Mormons and this party, from the charges made upon them, in a laborted speech of over three hours, consisting chiefly of stale anecdote; when Gov. Duncan, replied to him, and showed that this Mr. Warren was the same man that had acted as Douglass' Master in Chancery, to take Joe Smith out of the custody of the officers by a writ of habeas corpus, when he was arrested under a demand from the Governor of Missouri; -- that he was now an agent and representative of the Mormons in this city, and that he is the same man that went to the Palmyra (Mo.) Jail to pray with the abolitionists, who were in confinement for an attempt to kidnap and liberate slaves. All of his eloquent appeals for sympathy of the audience in favor of the Mormons, if any had been created, vanished like thin air. After Mr. Warren had made a second long speech attacking whig principles, Mr. E. D. Barker was called upon to reply, and after he had done, if there was any thing left of "Esq. Warren," we could not discover it."



SMALL BUSINESS. -- The locofoco papers have got hold of something new. One Mormon lady has recently written to another Mormon lady, that she was formerly employed in the family of Gov. Joseph Duncan, and that he failed to pay her a washing bill of six dollars and seventy-five cents! And this is gravely paraded before men of sense as evidence of his disqualification for the office of government! The Herald of this city, eagerly catches as the soap-suds article, and as usual makes it the foundation for abuse of Gov. Duncan. It is not to be wondered at, however, that this paper should seize upon trifles of this kind, to influence its readers against the whig candidate; it is about upon a par with its authority for the most of its attacks upon the Governor, viz: "Jacksonville street talk." This last demonstration, is small business, in which ever light it may be viewed. It is small business for females to obtrude their domestic matters upon the public; it is still smaller business for the Nauvoo printer to open his columns to the admission of a letter upon such a subject; and it is smaller business still for a man and an editor, who makes it his boast that he is "open and independent in his course," and above the low arts of the demagogue and political trickster, to use a letter as capital against a political opponent. But when did locofoco professions and practice agree?


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



By S. M. Bartlett.]         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., June 25, 1842.         [Vol. 5 - No. 9.


 

                Nauvoo, June 11th, 1842.
MR. BARTLETT. -- Sir, -- you will be pleased to discontinue sending me the Quincy Whig. I am a whig, but I am not a friend to Joseph Duncan, nor an other man that will make the taking away the rights of his fellow citizens a hobby to ride into office upon, nor I will not patronize any publication or publisher, that will uphold such a man.
                Yours resp'y.
                      HYRUM SMITH.

Every one to his taste as the cooper said when he kissed the cow. We would much like to have the patronage of Mr. Hyrum Smith -- but if it is only to be purchased at a sacrifice of any moral, religious, or political principles, we have heretofore professed, we do not want it. If we thought Gov. Duncan was disposed to take away the rights of the Mormons or of any other class or denomination of people he would not have our support. -- But knowing that it is contrary to the natural disposition of the man, and the republican principles which govern all his actions, we scout the idea set forth above, as too ridiculous for men of sense to put any faith in. The locofoco editors and politicians are laboring industriously to make the Mormons believe that the whigs are their enemies and would deprive them of rights had they the opportunity; and to judge grom Mr. Smith's letter, the belief appears to be very general in Nauvoo. -- But it is far from the fact. The whigs are Republicans in faith and practice -- the Constitution and Laws of the Union, will be upheld by them through every change and vicissitude of fortune, -- the rights of all classes, societies and denominations of men, that have sprung into existence under the laws aforesaid, will be respected, and if necessary, defended and protected. We beg Mormon people to recollect that the canvass gor governor will not last forever -- and especially, we beg of those gentlemen who are supposed to have much influence among those people as leaders -- to do nothing now, that they will be ashamed of after the election. The locos now hold out the hand of friendship, because there is a consideration at stake; but the past history of that party, show that its leaders would sacrifice any man if they stood in the way of its further advancement; and if it shall turn out hereafter, that the support of the Nauvoo people, has proved an injury rather than a benefit to the party, the leaders, with Ford, Douglass, &c. &c. at their head, will cast them off as readily as they would cast off the fellowship of a disagreeable acquaintance; and then the Mormons as a choice of necessity, if they need assistance and protection, will be compelled to fall back upon their old friends in adversity -- the friends of the oppressed and persecuted in every land -- the whigs. That time will surely come -- and it would certainly be more prudent and wise in such men as Mr. Hyrum Smith -- upon whose shoulders rests a heavy responsibility for the political conduct of the Mormons in the present canvass -- to take heed lest by their contumacy, stubbornness and dictatorial spirit, they make enemies where they should have friends. They must recollect too, that they have not the power out of their own immediate neighborhood, of putting down and building up newspapers, and hence a little modest caution should be exercised in making use of the personal pronoun.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



By S. M. Bartlett.]         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., July 2, 1842.         [Vol. 5 - No. 10.


 

==> MR. S. A. DOUGLASS, our dapper little Judge for this circuit, has descended from the Bench and taken up the part of a political wrangler. Gov. Duncan, recently made a speech in Jacksonville, in accordance with previous appointment. -- Douglass was among the audience, and caused the fact to be made known to the Governor, that he wished to reply to a portion of his speech. The Governor gave way accordingly, and the Judge mounted the rostrum. His speech, according to the Illinoian, was a most disgraceful affair. He was particularly abusive of the Governor, and frequently indulged in such epithets as 'liar,' 'slanderer,' 'demagogue,' 'deserter,' &c. He tried his best to back out of the predictament in which the Governor had placed him, by showing the connection which had existed between him and the Mormons, but all would not do -- it was made manifest to all, that Douglass, in addition to his being a vulgar minded man, has lost none of his political asperity and demagogueism since his elevation to the Bench. In regard to Mormonism, Douglass is sais to have declared, that the "Mormon faith was as true and better than any other, because it was the newest, and a new broom swept cleanest." Is it possible, that a Judge who shows himself so bitter a locofoco, and who seeks the opportunity of displaying his political animosity, can dispense "equal and justice" from the Bench, in times of political excitement? Douglass in the course of his speech declared, that the duty devolved upon HIM, to protect the Mormons from a mob which was arming to attack them. Powerful man! When and where did this mob take place -- this is the first we have heard of it. It is undoubtedly a slander upon the people of Hancock co.



==> General John C. Bennett, of Nauvoo, who has been of late quite a conspicuous character among the people of that city, has been dismissed from the Church by a publication over the signatures of Joseph Smith, Hyrum Smith, William Law, &c. &c. From the reports which have been in circulation against Bennett for a year past, he must have been rather a "hard case."



==> During a speech made by Judge Dougless, one of the political Judges of the Supreme Court, at Jacksonville, on MOnday last, a political friend of his Honor called upon him to explain why he appointed Gen. Bennett, a leading Mormon, Master in Chancery in Hancock county. The Judge was MUM. He did not, and could not answer the interrogatory. -- Alton Tel.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



Bartlett & Sullivan.]         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., July 9, 1842.         [Vol. 5 - No. 11.


 

==> We hear all kinds of rumors of the state of society at Nauvoo. The leading men quarrelling among themselves -- Rigdon, Bennett and Robinson, turned out of the Church -- Fornication -- Adultery -- an exposure expected from Bennett, and the deuce to pay generally. -- Such are the substance of the rumors afloat. We shall probably have something authentic upon the arrival of the papers from that christian city.



From the Galena Gazette.
IMPORTANT.

GALENA, June 16, 1842.    
Three of Gov. Carlin's Commissioners passed tho' our city on yesterday, on their way to the Territory of Iowa, in pursuit of a mare, (not the mayor of Nauvoo) recently stolen from his Excellency. From the known energy of the men in pursuit, and the prompt measures pursued by them. we can have no doubt but that this duty will be discharged to the entire satisfaction of that high functionary -- when the Commissioners will again resume their labors in selecting lands from this portion of the country, for the State of Illinois, under the Distribution Law of Congress, the claims of Wisconsin to the contrary notwithstanding.



LATE FROM NAUVOO. -- JOHN C. BENNETT. -- The mail yesterday, brought us the Nauvoo papers, the "Times and Seasons," and "The Wasp." of the 1st inst. In both of these papers, Mr. Joseph Smith has quite a long communication, addressed to the members of the Church and the "honorable part of community," exposing the character and conduct of Mr. John C. Bennett, whil[e] Mayor of the city, commander of the Nauvoo Legion, Master in Chancery for Hancock county, candidate for the legislature, a distinguished leader in the church, &c. &c. By this publication it appears that Bennett has been guilty of seduction, adultery, slander, lying, &c. Bennett it appears, has a wife and two children at McConnelsville, Ohio, from whom he has never been divorced -- that he came to Nauvoo, joined the church, and "put on the livery of Heaven to serve the devil in" -- that he imposed himself upon the young ladiers of that city, as a single man -- and he finally accomplished his object in seducing one of their number -- and instead of being satisfied with the accomplishment of this foul wrong, he made attacks upon the virtue of married women, and overcame them also -- "evidently not caring whose character was ruined, so that his wicked, lustful appetites might be gratified." His conduct was known to the elders, and they reasoned with and threatened him with excommunication; in consequence of this, he attempted to commit suicide, but was frustrated in the design. It was supposed, that shame and thedeard of public exposure, after his recovery from the attempt at suicide, would have produced a thorough reformation in his conduct; but not so; he soon gave a loose reign to his lustful passion, and continued his adulterous practices. During the course of his career of vice and infamy, as Smith states, he sought to teach the credulous females of the church, that "promiscuous intercourse between the sexes, was a doctrine believed in by the latter-day saints; and that there was no harm in it." To make his triumph over their virtue the more easy, he told the women that the heads of the Church, including Smith himself, sanctioned and practiced these vices. In fine, the publication of Mr. Smith, exposes one of the most corrupt knaves and hypocrites, the State affords, and in whatever community, Judge Douglass's Master in Chancery, John C. Bennett, makes his appearance in future, he should be marked and known as a monster, dangerous to the good order and social relations existing in society, and unworthy the least countenance or attention, of any moral or virtous man. He is evidently old in sin and iniquity, and his exposure was due to society at large. Bennett left Nauvoo in a sudden and abrupt manner, and there is no knowing where he will next make his appearance. Whether his locofoco friends will sustain him in this strait in which he is brought, remains to be seen.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



Bartlett & Sullivan.]         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., July 16, 1842.         [Vol. 5 - No. 12.


 

THE DIFFICULTIES AT NAUVOO -- THE OTHER SIDE OF THE STORY -- JOHN C. BENNETT -- "SPIRITUAL WIVES," &c. &c.

The Sangamo Journal and extra of the 8th instant, contain two letters from John C. Bennett, in reply to the exposure of Joseph Smith, the substance of which was given in our last paper. These letters are very long, and although duty would seem to require that they should be published entire, still we are so pushed for room that we must do by them as we done by Smith's statement -- give a summary review of the contents of these letters in as short a space as possible.

The first letter is dated Nauvoo, June 27, 1842, and contains but little in the way of charges against Smith -- that is, little in comparison with the 2d letter. -- Bennett in this letter, talks very brave and abuses Smith in the most pointed manner -- styles him the "King of Impostors," a "consummate blackguard," and "dastardly coward," &c. He asserts, that while writing the letter his life is in danger -- that Smith has threatened him with death, to his face -- and that if he should be missed, that Smith and his "Danite band," (a society of sworn members,) "will be the murderers," and calls upon "Illinoians to avenge his death!" He further says, that if Gov. Carlin will place the writ for the arrest of Smith, (on the demand of the Gov. of Mo.) in his hands, he will "deliver him up or die in the attempt." A great portion of this letter is in this gasconading, bragadocia style, and therefore unworthy of any particular attention. He asserts that he withdrew from the church before the date of his dismissal, and gives the certificate of "Jas. Sloan, General Church Clerk and Recorder," as evidence of this fact. He then charges Smith with the seduction of "not only hundreds of single and married women, but more than the great Solomon" of old. He specifies instances where Smith attempted the virtue of females, and mentions Miss Nancy Rigdon, the eldest unmarried daughter of Sidney Rigdon, as one. But her virtue was proof against his arts. He states that Smith approached Miss Rigdon "in the name of the Lord, and by his authority and permission," and for proof of the clergy, he refers the public to Sidney Rigdon, Geo. W. Robinson and Col. F. M. Higbee. He charges Smith in addition, such an attempt to seduce a Miss Brotherton of Warsaw, and that she can "tell a tale of woe that would make humanity shudder," Bennett further says that he "has the evidence, and it shall come, provided he is not murdered, to prove that Smith's "licentiousness is unequalled in the annals of time." Smith as also charged with swindling and an attempt to defraud his creditors, that he may obtain the benefit of the bankrupt act; and with unmasonic conduct, and "with introducing a new order or degree of masonry, called "ORDER, " in which a part of the obligation says, "I further more promise and swear, that I will never touch a daughter of Adam, unless she is given me of the Lord," so as to accord with Smith's licentious practices. Bennett says further, that the affidavit which Smith has published, as eminating from him, (Bennett,) in which he exculpates Smith from the charges which he now brings up against him, was drawn from him while in Smith's power, and his life would have been taken, if he had not given the affidavit.

The second letter is dated Carthage, Hancock county, July 24, 1842. In this letter, Bennett, under the head of 1st, charges Smith with enticing him into a private room, where after locking the door and drawing a pistol, he tells Bennett, that he would make "cat-fish bait" of him unless he (Bennett,) made affidavit to the effect of exonerating him from the "spiritual wife doctrine," or "private intercourse with females in general." Bennett declined -- Smith insisted, that unless he done so, and also made a statement to the same effect, before the city counsel, that he should deliver him over to the Danites for execution, that very night -- that his (Smith's) "dignity and purity should be maintained before the public even at the expense of life," -- and then he put the question to Bennett -- "will you do it or die?" Under the circumstances -- the fear of death before him -- the affidavit was drawn from Bennett, as he states, together with a statement of the same character, before the city council. In proof of the fact, that a threat of the murder of Bennett had come from Smith, an affidavit of Francis M. Higbee is given, in which Hifgee swears that "Smith told him that John C. Bennett could be easily put aside or drowned and no person would be the wiser for it, and that it should be attended to," &c. Under the 2d head, he indirectly charges that Smith was concerned in the attempt to assassinate ex-Gov. Boggs of Mo. He says that Smithprophecied the death of Boggs by violent means in 1841, in a public congregation at Nauvoo. We make a short quotation from Bennett's letter: "From one to two months prior to the attempted assassination of Gov. Boggs, Mr. O. P. Rockwell left Nauvoo for parts unknown to the citizens at large. I was then on terms of close intimacy with Joe Smith, and asked him where Rockwell had gone? "Gone," said he, "GONE TO FULFIL PROPHECY!" Rockwell returned to Nauvoo the day before the report of the assassination reached there, and the Nauvoo Wasp remarked "it yet remains to be known wh did the noble deed!" Rockwell remarked to a person now in Nauvoo, and whose name I forbear to mention for the present, from motives of prudence and safety to the person, but which shall be forthcoming in due time, that he had 'been all over Upper Missouri, and all about where Boggs lives,' and this was communicated to me by that person before I withdrew from the church, and we had considerable conversation upon that daring act. Rockwell is a Danite." Bennett also hints, rather obscurely it is true, that Smith had been concerned in the murder of a "certain prisoner in Missouri," and that Higbee and G. W. Robinson could tell more about it if they would. -- Under the 3d head, Bennett states his life has been sought since he left the church by the Danites, and that one Rockwell, and Capt. John D. Parker, followed him to Springfield, for the purpose of taking his life, if opportunity offered. Under the 4th head, Bennett details the attempt made by Smith upon the virtue of a "Mrs. Sarah M. Pratt, wife of Professor Orson Pratt, of the University of the city of Nauvoo." He wished her for one of his "spiritual wives" -- "for the Lord had given her to him" -- and asked Bennett, to assist him in the accomplishment of his wishes, but he refused. Smith finally undertook the task of seducing her himself but did not succeed. She repulsed his desires with indignation. He made the attempt afterwards, and upon being refused, the following farce is detailed: "Well, sister Pratt," says Joe, "as you have refused me, it becomes sin, unless sacrifice is offered;" and turning to me he said, 'General, if you are my friend I wish you to procure a lamb, and have it slain, and sprinkle the door posts and the gate with blood, and take the kidneys and the entrails and offer them upon an altar of twelve stones that have not been touched with a hammer, as a burnt offering, and it will save me and my priesthood. Will you do it?' I will, I replied. So I procured the lamb. from Capt. John T. Barnett, and it was slain by Lieut, Stephen H. Goddard, and I offered the kidneys and entrails in sacrifice for Joe as he desired; and Joe said, 'all is now safe -- the destroying angel will pass over, without harming any of us!'" (By the way, this paragraph shows what a corrupt knave Bennett was; according to his own story he was merely the pimp and accomplico of Smith in his designs against the females they had in their snare.) Under the 5th head, the attempt of Smith to seduce Miss Rigdon, is detailed more at length. She was proof, however, in all his overtures, backed up as he declared them to be by divine authority. 6th, The case of Miss Brotherton is again referred to more at length -- the proposals that were made to her by Smith, &c. -- 7th, is an affidavit from Bennett himself, whereupon he swears, as to the duress he was under when he gave the affidavit to Smith before referred to, and that he has seen Smith in bed with certain married women, and has seen him in the act of coition with certain other married women, "whom he seduced by telling them that the Lord had granted him the blessings of Jacob, and that there was no sin [in] it;" that he had access to numerous other married women whose husbands he had sent off on a missionary tour. Under the 8th head, an affidavit of Mrs. Melissa Schindle is given, in which she swears that Smith came to her bed room about 10 o'clock one night, and made divers overtures to her to let him lodge with her during the night; oferring her money, and striving to frighten her with his power as the head of the church. She refused to comply with his desires. He then went to an adjoining bed where a widow woman was laying, got into bed, and remained there a good part of the night.

We have been thus particular -- so far as our space would allow -- in making our readers familiar with the controversy between Smith and Bennett, that they may judge of the proper degree of credence to be attached to the statements of each. -- Where there is so much smoke, there must be some fire. If their statements, or exposures of each other's character, be founded upon truth, the state of society at Nauvoo, must be horrible indeed -- it must have been, and now is, a perfect sink of iniquity, fit only for the residence of the depraved and worthless. If the curse of an offended God, should visit our land in His wrath, for the rank corruptions and monsterous wickedness of the people, surely Nauvoo must go to keep company with Sodom and Gomorrah, those ancient cities of the plain. We can hardly put entire reliance upon the statements of Bennett -- they disclose so much wickedness. Virtue and morality exist only in name, it would seem, in the holy city of Nauvoo; and that it is no better than an extended seraglio, where Smith, like Solomon of old, or the Grand Turk himself, can roam up and down, and satisfy his lustful desires at pleasure.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



By John H. Pettit.]                Quincy, Illinois, July 21, 1842.                 [Vol. 1. No. 44.



The Sangamo Journal has turned out to be a Mormon paper. It is filled from week to week with Mormon exposures, of such a nature that no man who has the least regard for the feelings of his family, will suffer it to go into his house. The Alton Telegraph is of the same stamp. Shame upon such panderers of licentiousness and moral depravity.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



Bartlett & Sullivan.         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., July 23, 1842.         Vol. 5 - No. 13.


 

==> BENNETT, the Mormon disciple that was, is in St. Louis, and has published another letter exposing Smith, in the Bulletin of that city. According to his own story, he was the tool and pimp of Smith, in all kinds of mischief and rascality. -- He has resigned the office of Master in Chancery for Hancock county.



Letter from Nauvoo.
                Nauvoo, July 12, 1842.

MESSRS. BARTLETT & SULLIVAN. --
Gentlemen, -- I wish through your paper, to respond to an article published in the same of the 9th. inst. as rumor -- embracing my name (in connection with others,) as having been expelled from the Church of Latter Day Saints, joining Bennett's party, &c., &c.

I would say that I have had no knowledge of such an ovvurence whatever, and have not been advised of any difficulty existing between the Church and myself in any legal manner -- It is true that I have been pretty roughly handled in the Congrefation of Saints, for what offence, I know not: but I have some times thought, I [might] (in the providence and great wisdom of ____ ), have been selected as a scape goat, to carry the sins of OTHERS.

I have for a long time desired that some FRIEND would inform me for what purpose that scandalous attacks have, at several times, been made on myself, in connection with Mr. Rigdon, but have at last concluded as above. I will, however, leave all for the public to decide when they shall both see and hear the testimony. I must acknowledge myself a frail being, and am not easily persuaded to surrender my rights to others. My father served in the war of the Revolution, and flinched not in the contest for Freedom! He shall not blush to hear that his son ever failed to maintain it. I say this with all due deference to Prophets, Priests, Kings and Rulers.

As to Bennett's party, and the conspiracy against this people, I only say. FUDGE -- NOT GUILTY. God forbid I ever should conspire to injure the innocent, and the law is all sufficient for the guilty, (If any there are.)

Since then. Bennett's withdrawal from the Church, I have understood that a Resolution has been passed prohibiting all withdrawals from the church; so if a member wishes to withdraw, he must be expelled and published to the world; this I believe is now the statute of the Church. I now take the opportunity to say to ALL ,en, before my Maker, that I neither desire nor consider myself, any longer a member of said Church of Latter Day Saints. If necessary, I shall give my resolve for withdrawal at some future time; if not, I shall remain silent.

Very respectfully,
        Your ob't serv't.
                              GEO. W. ROBINSON.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



By John H. Pettit.]                Quincy, Illinois, July 28, 1842.                 [Vol. 1. No. 45.


 

MORE TROUBLE BREWING. -- Gen. John C. Bennett passed through this city last Monday morning on his way to the Governor of Missouri, having in his possession the affidavits of a large number of the most respectable men, in and about Nauvoo, and in the county of Hancock, testifying that Joe Smith was the sole cause and instigator of the attempt upon the life of ex-Governor Boggs. Gen. Bennett says he is now determined to expose the whole mystery and imposition connected with Mormonism, and in particular will he bring to light the fraud, deception and humbuggery, which has enabled Joe Smith heretofore to maintain such an absolute control over the minds and persons of his followers. The expose will no doubt, be a curious and interesting document.


Note: A copy of this issue of the Herald has not yet been located, to confirm the date of the above report. It is reproduced here from reprints in other papers.


 



Bartlett & Sullivan.         Quincy, Illinois, Saturday, July 30, 1842.         Vol. 5. - No. 14.



REASONS  WHY  PEOPLE  SHOULD  NOT
VOTE  FOR  JUDGE  FORD  FOR  GOVERNOR.

HE is the candidate of the Mormons, and opposed to bringing their chartered privileges on a level with those of other citizens of this State.

HE is in favor of finishing the Canal by the State.

HE resides in that section of the State which is trying to get set off on to Wisconsin, and has never raised his voice against the unjust proposition.

HE is in favor of increasing the taxes of the people..

HE is in favor of continuing the office-holders on the Canal, notwithstanding the work has been stopped; whose yearly salaries amount to the sum of $24,500.

HE is in favor of building up his party, in preference to protecting the interest of the State.

HE is one of the political Judges, elected to subserve party, and not to administer the law faithfully and impartially.

HE is in favor of keeping a standing army of Mormons, at Nauvoo, equipped with the arms of the State, to overawe the peaceable citizens of Illinois.

HE has, through his friends, bargained with the leaders of the Mormons for their votes as a church.

HE is in favor of paying the interest on our State debt, at this time, when the taxes already levied upon the people are almost insupportable.



THE OTHER SIDE OF THE QUESTION. -- Just as our paper was going to press, a printed copy of a statement from Nauvoo was put into our hands. Thsi statement contains the affidavits of Gen. Wm. Law, Mr. Hyrum Smith, Dan'l. H. Wells, and the thirteen members of the City Council, contradicting in the most unqualified terms the numerous charges put afloat in the community by Dr. John C. Bennett, against Joseph Smith and other Mormon leaders. We have not the time or room to give the statement a place this week.



==> BENNETT has a fourth letter of "Mormon Disclosures," in the Sangamo Journal of last week. It is about as salty as the others.



==> Our neighbor affects to believe that Gov. Duncan is in league with the Mormons. He knows, however, there is no foundation for such belief. On the contrary, he knows that Ford and Moore are the candidates of the Mormons, and that the Mormon papers, the "Times and Seasons," and "The Wasp," both support the locofoco candidates for Governor and Lt. Governor. This the editor of the Herald well knows, but it is on the eve of election, and any story will do for a present purpose. The extract from the "wasp" upon which the editor comments, was written for the Nauvoo paper, by a whig of Hancock county, and speaks not the sentiments of the Mormons.



From the Sangamo Journal Extra.

PRINCIPLES  OF  JUDGE  FORD

This "honest Judge," it appears, has at least two or three sets of principles, and uses them as he thinks will best answer his purposes... he would not pledge himself to be in favor of repealing or amending the Mormon charters; and in Brown county, his speech was so entirely satisfactory to the Mormons, about thirty of whom were present, that they applauded him so loudly for a moment that they stopped the speaking. And yet, after all this... Judge Ford declares... that Joe Smith is an impostor and great scoundrel!...


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



Bartlett & Sullivan.         Quincy, Illinois, Saturday, Aug. 6, 1842.         Vol. 5 - No. 15.



Mormon Revelation.

MISS  MARTHA  BROTHERTON'S  STATEMENT.

                St. Louis Mo. July 13th, 1842.

Gen. John C. Bennett.
Dear sir: -- I left Warsaw a short time since for this city, and having been called upon by you through the Sangamo Journal, to come out and disclose to the world the facts of the case in relation to certain propositions made to me at Nauvoo, by some of the Mormon leaders, I now proceed to respond to the call, and discharge what I consider a duty devolving upon me as an innocent but insulted and abused female. I had been at Nauvoo near three weeks, during which time my father's family received frequent visits form Elders Brigham Young and Heber C. Kimball, two of the Mormon apostles, when early one morning, they both came to my brother-in-law's (John McIlwricks) house, at which place I was then on a visit, and they particularly requested me to go and spend a few days with them. I told them I could not at that time, as my brother-in-law was not at home; however they urged me to go the next day and spend one day with them -- the day being fine I accordingly went. When I arrived at the foot of the hill, Young and Kimball were standing conversing together. They both came to me, and after flattering compliments, Kimball wished me to go to his house first. I said it was immaterial to me, and accordingly went. We had noy however, gone many steps when Young suddenly stopped and said he would go to that brother's (pointing to a little log hut a few yards distant,) and tell him that you (speaking to Kimball.) and brother Glover or Grover, I do not remember which, will value his land. -- When he had gone, Kimball turned to me and said, "Martha, I want you to say to my wife, when you go to my house, that you want to buy some things at Joseph's store, (Joseph Smith's) and I will say I am going with you to show you the way; you want to see the prophet, and you will then have an opportunity." I made no reply. Young again made his appearance, and the subject was dropped. We soon reached Kimball's house, where Young took his leave saying, "I shall see you again Martha." I remained at Kimball's near an hour, when Kimball seeing that I would not tell the lies he wished me to, told them to his wife himself. He then went and whispered in her ear, and asked if that would please her. "Yes" said she, "or I can go along with you and Martha." "No," said he, "I have some business to do and I will call for you afterwards to go with me to the debate," meaning the debate between yourself and Joseph. To this she consented. So Kimball and I went to the store together.

As we were going along, he said, "Sister Martha, are you willing to do all that the Prophet requires you to do?" I said I was, thinking of course he would require nothing wrong. "Then, are you ready to take counsel?" I answered in the affirmative, thinking of the great and glorious blessings that had been pronounced upon my head, if I adhered to the counsel of those placed over me in the Lord. "Well, " said he, "there are many things revealed in these last days that the world would laugh and scoff at, but unto us is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom. " He further observed, "Martha, you must learn to hold your tongue, and it will be well with you. You will see Joseph, and very likely have some conversation with him, and he will tell you what you shall do." When we reached the building he led me up stairs to a small room, the door of which was locked, and on it the following inscription -- "Positively no admittance." He observed, "Ah! brother Joseph must be sick, for strange to say he is not here. Come down into the tithing office, Martha," and went out, I know not where. In this office were two men writing, one of whom, William Clayton, I had seen in England; the other I did not know. Young came in and seated himself before me, and asked where Kimball was. I said he had gone out. -- He said it was all right. Soon after Joseph came in and spoke to one of the clerks, and then went up stairs followed by Young. Immediately after Kimball came in. --

"Now Martha, " said he, "the Prophet has come, come up stairs." I went and found Young and the Prophet alone. I was introduced to the Prophet by Young. Joseph offered me his seat, and to my astonishment, the moment I was seated Joseph and Kimball walked out of the room, and left me with Young, who arose, locked the door, closed the window and drew the curtain. He then came and sat before me and said, "This is our private room, Martha." Indeed sir, said I, I must be highly honored to be permitted to enter it. He smiled, and then proceeded, "Sister Martha, I want to ask you a few questions; will you answer them?" "Yes, sir," said I. "And will you promise not to mention them to any one?" "If it is your desire sir," said I, "I will not." "And you will not think any the worse of me for it, will you Martha?" said he. "No sir," I replied. -- "Well," said he, "what are your feelings towards me?" I replied "My feelings are just the same towards you that they ever were sir." "But come to the point more closely," said he, "have not you an affection for me, that, were it lawful and right you could accept of me for your husband and companion?"

My feelings at that moment were indescribable. God only knows them. What, thought I, are these men that I thought almost perfection itself, deceivers and is all my fancied happiness but a dream? 'Twas even so; but my next thought was, which was the best way for me to act at this time; If I say no, they may do as they think proper; and to say yes, I never would. So I considered it best to ask for time to think and pray about it. I therefore said "If it was lawful and right perhaps I might; but you know sir, it is not." "Well, but," said he "brother Joseph has a revelation from God that it is lawful and right for a man to have two wives; for as it was in the days of Abraham, so it shall be in these last days, and whoever is the first that is willing to take up the cross will receive the greatest blessings; and if you will accept of me I will take you straight to the celestial kingdom; and if you will have me in this world, I will have you in that which is to come, and brother Joseph will marry us to-day, and you can go home this very evening and your parents will not know any thing about it." "Sir," said I, "I should not like to do any thing of the kind without the permission of my parents." "Well, but," said he, "you are of age, are you not?" "No sir," said I, "I shall not be until the 24th of May." "Well," said he, "that does not make any difference. You will be of age before they know, and you need not fear. If you will take my advice it will be well with you, for I know it to be right before God and there is no sin in it, I will answer for it. -- But however Joseph wishes to have some talk with you on the subject -- he will explain things -- will you hear him?" "I do not mind," said I. "Well but I want you to say something," said he. "I want time to think about it, said I. "Well," said he, "I will have a kiss any how," and then rose and said he would bring Joseph.

He then unlocked the door, and took the key and locked me up alone. He was absent about ten minutes and then returned with Joseph, "Well" said Young, "sister Martha would be willing if she knew it was lawful and right before God." "Well Martha," said Joseph, "it is lawful and right before God -- I know it is. Look here, sister, don't you believe in me?" I did not answer. -- "Well Martha, said Joseph, "just go ahead and do as Brigham wants you to -- he is the best man in the world except me." "Oh!" said Brigham, "then you are as good," -- "Yes," said Joseph. "Well," said Young, "we believe Joseph to be a prophet -- have known him near eight years, and always found him the same." "Yes," said Joseph, "and I know it is lawful and right before God, and if there is any sin in it, I will answer for it before God; and I have the keys of the Kingdom, and whatever I bind on earth is bound in heaven, and whatever I loose on earth is loosed in heaven -- and if you accept of Brigham, you shall be blessed -- God shall bless you, and my blessing shall rest upon you; if you will be led by him you will do well, for I know Brigham will take care of you, and if he don't do his duty to you, come to me and I will make him. And if you do not like it in a month or two come to me and I will make you free again; and if he turns you off I will take you on." "Sir," said I, rather warmly, "it will be too late to think in a month or two after. I want to think first." "Well, but," said he, "the old proverb is, 'nothing ventured, nothing gained,' and it would be the greatest blessing that ever was bestowed upon you." "Yes," said Young, "and you will never have reason to repent of it -- that is, if I do not turn from righteousness, and that I trust I never shall, for I believe God who has kept me so long will continue to keep me faithful. Did you ever see me act in any way wrong in England Martha?" "No sir," said I. "No," said he, "neither can any one else lay any thing to my charge."

"Well, then" said Joseph, "what are you afraid of, Sis -- come let me do the business for you." "Sir," said I, "do let me have a little time to think about it, and I will promise not to mention it to any one." "Well, but look here," said he, "you know a fellow will never be damned for doing the best he knows how." "Well then," said I, "the best way I know of is to go home and think and pray about it." -- "Well" said Young, "I shall leave it with Brother Joseph, whether it would be best for you to have time or not." "Well," said Joseph, "I see no harm in her having time to think, she will not fall into temptation." "O sir," said I, "there is no fear of my falling into temptation." "Well, but," said Brigham, "you must promise me you will never mention it to any one." "I do promise it," said I. "Well," said Joseph, "you must promise me the same." I promised him the same. "Upon your honor," said he, "You will not tell." "No sir, I will lose my life first," said I. -- "Well, that will do," said he, "that is the principle we go upon. I think I can trust you Martha," said he. "Yes," said I, "I think you ought." Joseph said, "she looks as if she could keep a secret."

I then rose to go, when Joseph commenced to beg of me again -- he said it was the best opportunity they might have for months, for the room was often engaged. I however had determined what to do. -- "Well," said Young, "I will see you tomorrow, I am going to preach at the school house opposite your house, I have never preached there yet; you will be there I suppose." "Yes," said I. The next day being Sunday, I sat down, instead of going to meeting, and wrote the conversation and gave it to my sister, who was not a little surprised, but she said it would be best to go to the meeting in the afternoon. -- We went, and Young administered the sacrament. After it was over, I was passing out and Young stopped me, saying, "Wait Martha -- I am coming." I said "I cannot -- my sister is waiting for me." -- He then threw his coat over his shoulders and followed me out and whispered "have you made up your mind, Martha?" "Not exactly, sir," said I, and we parted.

I shall proceed to the justice of the peace and make oath to the truth of these statements, and you are at liberty to make what use of them you think best.
        Yours, Respectfully
               MARTHA H. BROTHERTON.

Sworn and subscribed before me, this 13th day of July, A. D. 1842.
         Du Bouffray Fremon.

Justice of the Peace for St. Louis County



THE ELECTION.

We are yet in the mist, as to the result of the election in the surrounding counties. We have rumors in abundance, but not in a sufficiently reliable shape to place much confidence in them. One week more, and the smoke of the battle cleared away, we shall be better able to judge of the general result.

HANCOCK COUNTY.

We have partial returns from this county, and the result is, as doubtless the most of our readers were prepared to expect. The whole Mormon vote has been cast for Ford and Moore. At Nauvoo, Gov. Duncan received but six votes, while Ford received one thousand and thirty-eight! -- This, we suppose, will satisfy the State Register, Quincy Herald, and the other slang-wangers of the party, that there was no league between the Whigs and Jo Smith and his subjects. It will also open the eyes of all parties, to the dangerous and anti-republican tendancy of a political, religious and military band of men, organized in our midst, and trained to obey the will and dictation of one man -- to vote according to his resentments and prejudices -- to sacrifice their own honest convictions of right and duty at the beck and nod of a petty-dictator, whose morals are of so questionable a character, that even delusion itself, cannot much longer, it seems to us, remain blind to the gross and outrageous imposition which is being played off under the cloak of religion. The majority of the people of Nauvoo, are doubtless honest and sincere in their religious attachments, but when they so far throw away their free agency, as to vote in accordance with the selfish and dictatorial policy of Smith, they do not deserve the sympathies -- and we were going to say -- privileges, of freemen. Some one may say, that had the Mormons voted the Whig ticket these expressions would never have come from us. No such thing. We profess to be too much of a republican, to look on and see this outrage upon the elective franchise, without denouncing it at once. Had the Mormons voted the whig tocket in a body, they would have done so in obedience to the dictation of Smith, and the principle would have been equally as anti-republican; and although, we might have had the occasion to rejoice at the result, we still should have condemned the course of proceeding by which the result was brought...


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



By John H. Pettit.]                Quincy, Illinois, August 9, 1842.                 [Vol. 1. No. ?


 

... [yesterday] the officers charged by Gov. Carlin with the duty of arresting Joseph Smith, left this city for the purpose of making a second arrest... It remains to be seen whether he will permit himself peaceably to be taken....


Note: A copy of this issue of the Herald has not yet been located, to confirm the date of the above report. It is reproduced here from reprints in other papers.


 



Bartlett & Sullivan.]         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., Aug. 13, 1842.         [Vol. 5 - No. 16.


 

MORMONISM. -- The last Nauvoo "Wasp" is filled with affidavits, interspersed with editorial balderdash -- for we can call it nothing else -- contradicting the statements of Bennett, and abusing him in the most vulgar manner. There is no doubt but that Bennett is a great rascal, and as he was formerly a bosom friend and confident of the "Prophet," it looks a little singular that his character was never found out until this late period. In all the long rigmarole in the 'Wasp,' it appears something strange, that the very startling developments of Miss Brotherton, published in our last paper, receives no kind of notice. There is a strong appearance of truth about this young lady's statement, and if true, is enough of itself -- even if Bennett had never written a word -- to damn Smith, and his infamous co-workers, Young and Kimball, in the estimation of all honorable men.


AFTER THE ELECTION. -- According to "common street talk," the Governor of Missouri has demanded of the Governor of this State, the person of Joseph Smith, the Mormon Prophet, and one of his disciples, named O. P. Rockwell, for the purpose of having them tried in Missouri, for certain crimes alleged to have been committed by them in that State. Gov. Carlin, as the story goes, in obedience to the demand of Gov. Reynolds of Mo., issued a writ one day last week, for the apprehension of Smith and Rockwell, and the execution of the same was entrusted to one or two constables of this city. In accordance with the requirements of the writ, these officers proceeded to Nauvoo, and apprehended Smith and Rockwell; -- but before leaving the city, a process was issued by the municipal authorities of Nauvoo, to bring the arrested persons before a city court convened for the purpose, -- where, after an examination of the Executive writ, it was pronounced insufficient, and the prisoners set at liberty. -- This is the substance of the reports in circulation, and it may be correct or incorrect. It is further stated, that the Governor's 'dander' is up, and that he is dertermined to take "Joseph," any how, and that another writ has been despatched for the purpose. Alas! the poor Mormons! Even the 1000 majority for Ford does not avail them in this emergency. The locos have used Smith -- now we suppose they will hang him!


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



Bartlett & Sullivan.         Quincy, Illinois, Saturday, Aug. 20, 1842.         Vol. 5. - No. 17.


 

The rumor from Nauvoo is, that Jo Smith has had a revelation from the Lord, to the effect that he, (Smith) is to be bodily absent from his people for ten years.


The second attempt of Gov. Carlin, to apprehend Jo Smith and Rockwell, proved about as unsuccessful as the first. -- When the officers arrived at Nauvoo, neither Joseph or Rockwell were to be found -- they had either crossed the river into Iowa or were secreted in that holy city. -- The Mormons treated the officers with every respect, and offered to assist them if necessary, in fulfilling their duty. The whole affair begins to look exceedingly like a farce, and this opinion is becoming very prevalent. We suppose all proceedings will stop here for the present.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



By John H. Pettit.]                Quincy, Illinois, Aug. 25, 1842.                 [Vol. 1. No. 49.


 

The New York Herald thus chronicles the arrival of Gen. Bennett, the Mormon exposer, in that city:

ARRIVAL EXTRAORDINARY. -- The celebrated General John Cooke Bennett, arrived in this city yesterday. -- He is preparing to publish a book, which is to be a full and complete history of the Mormons, public and private -- the secrets of their religion; their mode of life at Nauvoo -- the celebrated prophet Joe Smith's secret system of wives -- their mode of warfare -- tactics -- civil and religious government -- with various other curious and perfectly original matters. It will be one of the richest brochures that ever emanated from the press of any country.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



Bartlett & Sullivan.]         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., Aug. 27, 1842.         [Vol. 5. - No. 18.


 

==> The N. York Herald thus chronicles the arrival of Gen. Bennett, the Mormon exposer, in that city:

"ARRIVAL EXTRAORDINARY. -- The celebrated Gen. John C. Bennett, arrived in this city yesterday. He is preparing to publish a book, which is to be a full and complete history of the Mormons, public and private -- the secrets of their religion, their mode of life at Nauvoo -- the celebrated Prophet Joe Smith's secret system of wives -- their mode of warfare -- tactics -- civil and religious government -- with various other curious and perfectly original matters. It will be one of the richest brochures that ever emanated from the press of any country."



CAUSE OF DEFEAT: -- A good many of our friends are somewhat surprised at the large majority received by Ford for Governor. But if they will take the trouble to inquire a little into the causes that operated in producing this majority, by comparing the returns of the recent election with those given in the Presidential election of 1810, they will readily perceive the cause of the defeat of the whigs. It is as much owing to their failure to attend the polls, as it is to the influence of Mormonism, the Canal and the Alien vote...


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



Bartlett & Sullivan.]         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., Sept. 3, 1842.         [Vol. 5 - No. 19.


 

A TIE. -- Jo Smith and our Highness got the name number of votes for Governor in Mellenry county -- one each. We'll cast lots with the Prophet, if he says so. -- Chicago Democrat.

You ought, by all means, to give way for Jo -- especially as he is your superior in military rank. We know of no person in the whole length and breadth of the States, better qualified both by his modesty and gallantry, to fill the place of confidential adviser to his Highness, the Prophet, in carrying out the "spiritual wife" doctrine, than yourself. Since Bennett's departure, the lambs about Nauvoo have had a respite. The door posts by this time must need sprinkling, and you would make a high priest at least, in officiating on necessary occasions. Besides, in consideration of your services in assisting Jo to deceive the innocent and unwary, he would doubtless confer upon you the "blessings of Jacob."



==> An author in St. Louis, is preparing a Farce, to be performed at the St. Louis Theatre, with the title of "Mormonism."



==> The NAUVOO WASP has not yet disproved the statement of Miss Martha Brotherton. Is it for the very good reason that it is true? If it is false, give us the proof of the fact, and less of your balderdash.



==> Mormons leaving the Holy City. -- About forty Mormons passed down the other day on the Rosalie, -- perfectly satisfied, we suppose, with the Prophet and his doctrine.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



By John H. Pettit.]                Quincy, Illinois, Sep. 8, 1842.                 [Vol. 1. No. 51.



ANOTHER  ABORTIVE  ATTEMPT  TO  ARREST  JOE  SMITH.

Mr. FORD, the officer bearing the requisition from Gov. Reynolds, of Mo., for the person of Joseph Smith, arrived here one day last week from Iowa Territory, whither he had been to make a similar demand on the Governor of Iowa, in case Joe Smith should cross the river. On Friday, the writs for the arrest of Smith and Rockwell were placed in the hands of Messrs. King and Pitman, and on the same evening in company with Mr. Ford and five or six others, they started for Nauvoo. Notwithstanding the officers endeavored to keep the whole proceedings secret, the news of their intentions and errand reached Nauvoo before them; and about two hours before they arrived here, Joe Smith had taken his departure, or secreted himself so that he was not to be found. There were men stationed on the opposite side of the river the day and night previous to the arrival of the officers at Nauvoo, who kept a strict look-out in case he should get wind of the coming of the officers, and cross the river. But neither of the parties saw or heard any thing of him, except that he was at home a very short time before their arrival. His house and premises were thoroughly searched; but no signs of him could be obtained. -- The officers returned here last Monday morning, and Mr. Ford went back to Missouri.

It was told to the officers at Warsaw, by men who were witnesses of the fact, that Jo Smith made a public speech, on Monday the 29th ult. to his followers, in which he declared that Messrs. King and Pitman were cowards, and were afraid to take him, or even to make a serious attempt. He also stated that Gov. Reynolds, of Mo., and Gov. Carlin, were fools, and that they might go to the d---l; but they would never have the pleasure of taking possession of this person; and much more, of the same braggadocio character. We know not how Gov. Carlin will relish such language, but from him his well known character and temper when he is defied, we would suppose he could not swallow it as easily as Joe may suppose. It is perfectly ridiculous that one man, of the calibre of Jo Smith, should throw defiance in the teeth of the people of two States. -- What in the name of common sense are our laws for, if it is impossible to put them in execution in so simple an instance as the one now under consideration? Can it be possible that the people of Illinois will suffer a proclaimed culprit and fugitive from justice, to throw himself in the centre of some two or three thousand followers, and then defy the Executive of the State, and the officers of justice, and proclaim himself independent of, and above the laws of the State, in the most insulting language? For the honor of Illinois, we hope that effective measures may be speedily taken on the part of the Governor to crush such treason in the bud.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



Bartlett & Sullivan.]         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., Sept. 10, 1842.         [Vol. 5 - No. 20.



Joe Smith's Whereabouts.

It is now reduced to a certainty, that Smith is in Nauvoo. On Monday last, he addressed a large crowd of his followers in that city; on the subject of the late attempt to arrest him. He stated that he would not be taken -- that King and Pitman, (the officers charged with the arrest) were cowards, and could not take him. He was very profuse of oaths -- cursing everything that did not smell of Mormonism.

At the conclusion of his speech, he commissioned two hundred and fifty Ministers to travel throughout the country and preach the Gospel -- instructing them to exort all converts to migrate to Nauvoo. -- (Warsaw Signal.)


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



Bartlett & Sullivan.]         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., Sept. 24, 1842.         [Vol. 5 - No. 22.


 

JOE SMITH. -- The last account we have of this person, he was on his way north, it was supposed for Canada, by the way of Galena, Chicago, &c. But we place no confidence in the account; we believe Joe is yet in or about the "City of the Saints," and occasionally comes forth from his hiding place, when he can do so with impunity. He is too cunning for the Governor or any of his officers, and he has deliberately put the laws of the State at defiance. If he will listen to a word from us, we would advise him to locate his new Jerusalem, away to the far West, in the Oregon country, and there to build his temple and govern the Saints in his own way. In that case the advantages would be two-fold: for himself and followess, for there would be no danger of their molestation in the enjoyment of their peculiar notions in that distant country; -- to the Government, the location of himself and followers would be an advantage, because it greatly needs settlers in that region; and doubtless, Government would do something right handsome for Joseph, in the grant of a gift of lands, &c. if he would guarantee the emigration of any number of settlers. It is becoming more plainly evident every day, that the Mormons cannot live at Nauvoo in tranquility any great length of time -- for there is a jealousy growing up between them and their neighbors of an opposite faith, which is rapidly approximating to hatred on both sides, and will eventually lead to popular outbreaks and violations of law. It is hardly to be expected, that a community of men so clannish as the Mormons, and so bigoted and selfish in their religious belief -- and so willing to obey the behests of Smith, whether for good or evil, -- will long enjoy the respect of those who are governed by more liberal and Republican notions in both religion and politics; and when this Society of men are shown to have practiced all manner immoral and vicious acts under the cloak of religion, it is not surprising that a feeling of resentment, and a desire to get rid of the Society root and branch, should take possession of the entire community. But with all this resentment and detestation of their corrupt practices, we hope no such things as mobs or violations of law, will be resorted to. Let public opinion stamp the men who are engaged in keeping up this religious delusion, with proper condemnation. Let their meetings be held as often as they choose to hold them -- but let no man who has any respect for his own character and who detests imposture in every shape and form, keep aloof from these meetings, and the Society will soon become a harmless one in point of numbers -- the fire will soon burn out for want of fuel. Already have their conversions become "few and far between" in this country, and their missionaries are compelled to resort to England and Ireland, among the ignorant and uneducated class, for converts to build up the new Jerusalem, and the Temple. When the enormities, however, which have been practised at Nauvoo, for the last three years, have been widely spread and known, thro' both Great Britain and America, it is fair to presume, that the Society will exist only in name -- that is, there will be no more converts, and the backsliders will become so numerous, that none will be left in the Society, but those who have their own corrupt ends to accomplish.



GEN. JOHN C. BENNETT, is lecturing in New York city on the subject of Mormonism. His lectures are said to be well attended. Admission fee, 12 1/2 cents per head. So much towards putting down Mormonism.

On the other hand, we learn that some time since, a large number of individuals were qualified, (Mormon fashion,) for preachers at Nauvoo, and instructed, in an advisatory speech from Jo Smith himself, to go ahead and teach the doctrines of Mormonism. So much towards building the Mormon Temple.

 

MORE  ABOUT  THE  MORMONS.

We have received from the Nauvoo press, a sheet filled with affadavits, statements and letters, invalidating the testimony of Gen. Bennett and Miss Martha Brotherton, in relation to certain disclosures of those persons, which have before been noticed in this paper. Some of these statements, particularly those referring to Mrs. Orson Pratt, Miss Martha Brotherton and Miss Nancy Rigdon, are unfit to be read in any decent family -- suffice it, these females, if the statements in this Mormon sheet are true, cannot be classed with the most virtuous of their sex. On the contrary, the father of Miss Brotherton, a very respectable old gentleman in appearance, was in this city, a few days since, on his way to St. Louis, and he pronounces the statements made in the Mormon sheet against the character of his daughter, to be a vile fabrication of the Mormons to destroy the effect of her affidavit implicating Jo Smith, Heber C. Kimball, and Brigham Young, in the attempt to seduce her, as stated in that affidavit, made before a St. Louis magistrate.


Note: See also the sworn statement of Mr. Smethurst in the Pittsburgh Morning Chronicle of July 27, 1842, in support of Miss Martha Brotherton's good character.


 



Bartlett & Sullivan.]         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., Oct. 1, 1842.         [Vol. 5 - No. 23.



JOE SMITH.

Has a communication in the last "Times and Seasons," signifying his intention of leaving Nauvoo, "for a short season, for his own safety and the safety of his people," He further says, that he has employed agents to settle up his business and pay his debts in due time, "by turning out property or otherwise as the case may require, or as the circumstances may admit of." We judge from this, that Smith has failed in receiving his final discharge under the Bankrupt Law, He tells the Mormons that when he hears that the storm is fully blown over, he will return to them.



Another Seceding Mormon.

A Mr. T. F. Olney, of La Harpe, Hancock county, has a letter in the last Sangamo Journal, in which he makes a "public withdrawal from the Church of Latter Day Saints, as he cannot longer consent to remain a member of said Church while polygamy, lasciviousness and adultery, are practiced by some of its leaders." He says, "that crimes of the deepest dye are tolerated and practiced by them, cannot be doubted."  *  *  *  * "the fact of Smith's wishing to marry Miss Rigdon as a spiritual wife, of his attacks upon her virtue, his teachings about his having the blessings of Jacob, &c. &c. as stated in Bennett's letters, ARE TRUE, and if I am called upon to prove it, I SHALL DO IT, to the satisfaction of the public, and to the chagrin and mortification of Smith and others." Mr. Olney bears testimony to the good character, veracity and virtue of Miss Rigdon, George W. Robinson, and others, who have been assailed in that apology for a newspaper, the Nauvoo Wasp. Appended to his statement, are the certificates and affidavits of Col. Carlos Gove, Sidney Rigdon, Geo. W. Robinson, and Henry Marks, proving the uprightness of conduct and virtuous character of Miss Rigdon, and of the bad character, malice and want of veracity, of a miserable loafer about Nauvoo, named Stephen Markham, who, it is stated, the Mormons have prevailed upon to put his signature to an affidavit assailing the virtue of Miss Rigdon, to help Smith out of the dilemma in which he is placed bu Bennett's disclosures, -- This affidavit among others, is hawked about the country, by the Mormon elders, who are empowered by Smith, to preach the doctrines of the Society. We see, that they have been in circulation in this vicinity, and we suppose the county will soon be flooded with them. They cannot, however, stay the tide which is setting against the Mormon imposture -- public opinion has decreed its downfall.


Note: Joseph Smith's Sept. 1, 1842 letter, "To all the saints in Nauvoo," begins thusly: "Forasmuch as the Lord has revealed unto me that my enemies both of Mo & this State were again on the pursuit of me, and inasmuch as they pursue me without cause and have not the least shadow or coloring of justice or right on their side in the getting up of their prosecutions against me; and inasmuch as their pretensions are all founded in falsehood of the blackest die, I have thought it expedient and wisdom in me to leave the place for a short season for my own safety and the safety of this people. I would say to all those with whom I have business that I have left my affairs with agents and clerks who will transact all business in a prompt and proper manner and will see that all my debts are cancelled in due time, by turning out property or otherwise as the case may require, or as the circumstances may admit of. When I learn that the storm is fully blown over then I will return to you again..."


 



Bartlett & Sullivan.]         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., Oct. 8, 1842.         [Vol. 5 - No. 24.


 

==> Gov Carlin has offered a reward of $400 for the apprehension of Joseph Smith and O. P. Rockwell, or $200 for either of them. It is not sufficient by $600 at least. A reward of $1000 might tempt the cupidity of the Mormons.



POSTSCRIPT! -- ARREST OF JO SMITH. -- We understand the Governor has received information, that Jo Smith is in custody at Carthage; and that he is to be brought before Judge Douglass, who is there holding court, on a writ of habeas corpus, for the purpose of trying the validity of the Governor's writ of arrest. From the course things are taking, it is not improbable that the same farce played off two years ago, in which the same two parties were interested, will be re-enacted again in the present instance.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



Bartlett & Sullivan.]         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., Oct. 15, 1842.         [Vol. 5 - No. 25.


 

JO SMITH not ARRESTED. -- The rumor we spoke of last week, in relation to the apprehension of Smith, is not confirmed. We understand, however, that he was seen at Nauvoo on Friday last, apparently enjoying his liberty.


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



By John H. Pettit.]                Quincy, Illinois, Nov. 17, 1842.                 [Vol. 2. No. 9.



BENNETT  ON  MORMONISM.

We have received by the mail, a copy of Bennett's expose of Mormonism. It is a work of 344 pages of close letter press printing, and contains several engravings, among which is one of Gen. J. C. Bennett, the author, and one of Gen. Jos. Smith, the Nauvoo prophet. The book contains copious affidavits in relation to the early life of Jos. Smith, and many of them carry upon their faces evidence of truth. Gen. Bennett states, that the reason of his joining the Mormons, was to effect the salvation of his country. He ascertained by some means, the Mormons intended to revolutionize and involve in a civil war, the whole western country, and to prevent such a catastrophe, he joined them, and became acquainted with their secrets, for the sake of exposing them. Very likely!


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



Bartlett & Sullivan.]         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., Nov. 19, 1842.         [Vol. 5 - No. 30.


 

"THE HISTORY OF THE SAINTS, or an Expose of Joe Smith and Mormonism, by Jphn C. Bennett: Leland and Whiting, Boston."

This is the title of a work of three hundred and forty-three pages, which we received by mail last week, bearing the Boston post-mark. The mechanical execution of the work is of a very superior character. In addition to other engravings, the work is embellished with one of Gen. Bennet himself, in his military costume; as also one of Joe Smith, in the military dress of a Lieut. Gen. of the Nauvoo Legion. As for the reading part of the contents of this volume, our readers generally can form some opinion of its character. It is divided off under different heads, as follows: Reasons for joining the Mormons; character of the author; Inaugural address; Mormon Testimony; Laying the corner stone of the Temple; Rules of city council; Withdrawal from the church; vote of thanks; Correspondence; Opinions of the Newspaper Press; Joe Smith -- his claims and character; F. Brewer's Testimony; G. B. Frost's Testimony; Joe Smith, Wm. Law and John Taylor; Joe's Bankrupt Application; Book of Mormon -- its origin, etc,; Claims and absurdities of the Book of Mormon; Absurdities and contradictions of the Book of Covenants' Mormon Paradise; History of the Mormons; Designs of Mormonism; Organization and Doctrine of the Mormons; Remarkable eventsl Phrenological Charts; Decription of Nauvoo; Charters, Ordinances, &c.; City Officers; University; Legion; The Call; The Seraglio; Amours, etc. etc,; Mrs. Sarah M. Pratt; Mrs. Emeline White; Miss Martha H. Brotherton; Miss Nancy Rigdon; Widow Fuller, now Mrs. Warren; Widow Miller; Incidental Reflections; Daughter of Zion; Destroying Angel; Order Lodge; Milking the Gentiles; Assassinations, and attempted Assassinations; Mr. John Stevenson; Gov. Boggs; The Duress and attempted Murder of the Author; Contemplated Mormon Empire; An Appeal to the Public; Extracts from a Missouri Document; Evidences given before Judge King; Remarks by way of addendum.

The whole book is very interesting, and may be considered a thorough exposure of every thing connected with the Mormon imposition, since its location in Illinois. It is a pity for the cause of truth and impartial history, that another hand than Bennett's had not drawn up the work. His character is so questionable where he is best known, that his statements will not go as far in convincing the public, as perhaps their truth and importance deserve. We for one, however, do not doubt the truth of Bennett's disclosures -- there is too much concurrent testimony to admit of a doubt. The book will, probably, soon be for sale in this part of the country, when any one who feels any interest on the subject, can procure one, and judge of its merits.

The annexed affidavit, among others in the book, should be published for the information of those who are uninformed as to the origin and respectability of the Smith family, before the delusion of Mormonism was known in the land. We would here remark, that this affidavit fully agrees with all we had previously understood, as to the character and standing of the family. Mr. Jonathan A. Hadly, who edited a paper in Palmyra, Wayne county, New York, about the time of the Golden plates were said to have been discovered by Joseph Smith, has published a statement in the newspapers which agrees, in all essential particulars, with the affidavit below. Hadly was applied to by one Martin Harris, a very ignorant and superstitious sort of a man, and a tool of the Smiths, to print a manuscript, which he called the Book of Mormon, or the "Golden Bible;" but Hadly ridiculed the idea. He told Harris that it would cost as much to print it as his farm was worth. Harris afterwards went to the other printing office in the same town, and had the book printed there, -- mortgaging his farm, as Hadly states, to secure the printers in undertaking the job.

TESTIMONY OF WILLIAM STAFFORD.
Manchester, Ontario Co. Dec. 8, 1833.

I, William Stafford, having been called upon to give a true statement of my knowledge, concerning the character and conduct of the family of Smiths, known to the world as the founders of the Mormon sect, do say, that I first became acquainted with Joseph, Smith and his family in the year 1820. They lived, at that time, in Palmyra, about one mile and a half from my residence. A great part of their time was devoted to digging for money; especially in the night time, when they said the money could be most easily obtained. I have heard them tell marvellous tales, respecting the discoveries they had made in their occupation of money digging. -- They would say, for instance, that in such a place, in such a hill, on a certain man's farm, there were deposited kegs, barrels and hogsheads of coined silver and gold -- bars of gold, golden images, brass kettles filled with gold and silver -- gold candlesticks, swords, &c. &c. They would say, also, that nearly all the hills in this part of New York, were thrown up by human hands, and in them were large caves, which Joseph, Jr., could see, by placing a stone of singular appearance to his hat, in such a manner as to exclude all light; at which time they pretended he could see all things within and under the earth -- that he could see within the above mentioned caves, large gold bars and silver plates -- that he could also discover the spirits in whose charge these treasures were, clothed in ancient dress. At certain times, these treasures could be obtained very easily; at others, the obtaining of them was difficult. The facility of approaching them, depended, in a great measure, on the state of the moon. New moon and good Friday, I believe, were regarded as the most favorable times for obtaining these treasures. These tales I regarded as visionary. However, being prompted by curiosity, I at length accepted of their invitations, to join them in their nocturnal excursions. I will now relate a few incidents attending these excursions.

Joseph Smith, Sen., came to me one night, and told me, that Joseph Jr. had been looking in his glass, and had seen, not many rods from his house, two or three kegs of gold and silver, some feet under the surface of the earth; and that none others but the elder Joseph and myself could get them. I accordingly consented to go, and early in the evening repaired to the place of deposit. Joseph, Sen. first made a circle, twelve or fourteen feet in diameter. This circle, said he, contains the treasure. He then stuck in the ground a row of witch-hazel sticks around the said circle, for the purpose of keeping off the evil spirits. Within this circle he made another, of about eight or ten feet in diameter. He walked around three times on the periphery of the last circle, muttering to himself something which I could not understand. He next stuck a steel rod in the centre of the circles, and then enjoined profound silence upon us, lest we should arouse the evil spirit who had the charge of these treasures. After we had dug a trench about five feet in depth around the rod, the old man, by signs and motions, asked leave of absence and went to the house to inquire of young Joseph the cause of our disappointment. He soon returned and said that Joseph had remained all this time in the house, looking in his stone and watching the motions of the evil spirit -- that he saw the spirit come up to the ring, and as soon as it beheld the cone which we had formed around the rod, it caused the money to sink. We then went into the house, and the old man observed, that we had made a mistake in the commencemnt of the operation; if it had not been for that, said he, we should have got the money.

At another time, they devised a scheme, by which they might satiate their hunger with the mutton of one of my sheep. They had seen in my flock a sheep, a large, fat, black wether. Old Joseph and one of the boys came to me one day, and said that Joseph Jr. had discovered some very remarkable and valuable treasures, which could be procured only in one way. That way, was as follows: -- That a black sheep should be taken to the ground where the treasures were concealed -- that after cutting its throat, it should be led around a circle while bleeding. This being done, the wrath of the evil spirit would be appeased; the treasures could then be obtained, and my share of them was to be four fold. To gratify my curiosity, I let them have a large fat sheep. They afterwards informed me that the sheep was killed pursuant to commandment; but as there was some mistake in the process, it did not have the desired effect. This, I believe, is the only time they ever made money-digging a profitable business. They, however, had around them constantly a worthless gang, whose employment it was to dig money nights, and who, day times, had more to do with mutton than money.

When they found that the people of this vicinity would no longer put any faith in their schemes for digging money, they then pretended to find a Golden Bible, of which, they said, the Book of Mormon was only an introduction. This latter book was at length fitted for the press. No means were taken by any individual to suppress its publication: No one apprehended any danger from a book, originating with individuals who had neither influence, honesty or honor. The two Josephs and Hiram promised to show me the plates, after the Book of Mormon was translated. But afterwards they pretended to have received an express commandment, forbidding them to show the plates. Respecting the manner of receiving and translating the Book of Mormon, their statements were always discordant. The elder Joseph would say that he had seen the plates and that he knew them to be gold; at other times he would say that they looked like gold; and other times he would say he had not seen the plates at all. I have thus briefly stated a few of the facts, in relation to the conduct and character of this family of Smiths; probably sufficient has been stated without my going into detail.
                        WM. STAFFORD.

  State of New York,
   Wayne County, ss.

     I certify, that on this 9th day of December, 1833, personally appeared before me, William Stafford, to me known, and made oath to the truth of the above statement, and signed the same.

TH. P. BALDWIN,
Judge of Wane County Court.


Here is another singular affidavit from the same work, under the head of "Milking the Gentiles," -- which must close our extracts fro this week:

                        BOSTON, September 19, 1842.
On or about the middle of June, 1837, I rode with Joseph Smith Jr. from Fairport, Ohio, to Kirtland. When we left Fairport, we had been drinking pretty freely; I drank brandy, he brandy and cider both together; and when we arrived at Painesville we drabk again; and when we arrived at Kirtland, we were very drunk.

About the last of August, 1837, Joseph Smith, Brigham Young and others, were drunk at Joseph Smith, Jr.'s house, all together; and a man by the name of Vincen Knight supplied them with rum, brandy, gin and port wine. from the cash store; and I worked in the loft over head. He, Joseph, told Knight not to sell any of the rum, brandy, gin or port, for he wanted them for his own use. They were drunk and drinking for more than a week.

Joseph Smith said that the Bank was got up on his giving a revelation from God, and said it was to go into circulation to milk the Gentiles. I asked Joseph about the money. He said he could not redeem it; he was paid for signing the bills, as any other man would be paid for it, -- so he told me, -- and they must do the best they could about it.

October 13 -- Hyrum Smith's wife was sick, and Brigham Young prayed with her, and laid on hands, and said she would get well; but she died at 7 o'clock at night.

Joseph Smith, Jr. and others went to Canada in September. Said he, Joseph, had as good a right to go out and get money, as any of the brethren. He took nine hundred dollars, in Canada, from a certain Lawrence, and promised him a farm when we arrived at Kirtland; but when he arrived, Joseph was among the missing, and no farm for him. (He took nine hundred dollars from Lawrence.)

William Smith * told Joseph if he did not give him some money he would tell where the Book of Mormon came from; and Joseph accordingly gave him what he wanted.
                              G. B. FROST.
    Suffolk, ss. September 19, 1842.

    Then personally appeared the aforenamed G. B. Frost, and made oath that the foregoing affidavit, by him subscribed is true.
                Before me,
                Bradford Sumner,
                Justice of the Peace.
________
* The nominal editor of the "Nauvoo Wasp."


Note: The modern reader can only wonder, just what Apostle William Smith might have revealed, had he followed through with his threat and told "where the Book of Mormon came from." This particular LDS leader was never known as a paragon of truth (among Saints or Gentiles), so any "disclosures" he might have made regarding Mormon origins perhaps would not have been believed by even so few readers as those who accepted Dr. Bennett's shocking stories at face value.


 



Bartlett & Sullivan.]         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., Nov. 26, 1842.         [Vol. 5 - No. 31.


 

JOE SMITH. -- The Burlington Hawkeye of the 31 says: Joe Smith "preached" at Nauvoo last Sunday to an immense concourse of the "brethren." He said in one of his late discourses that Gov. Carlin was afraid that he (Smith) wanted to be Governor, but no fears need be entertained on that point as he considered himself even now as in a better situation then he would be if he was Governor or President, being Lieutenant General for time and Prophet for eternity, either of which he considered preferable to being Governor or President. He also said if there were any who did not believe in him they might leave him, "and," to use his own expression, "go to hell and be damned."


Notes: (forthcoming)


 



Bartlett & Sullivan.]         Quincy, Illinois, Sat., Dec. 24, 1842.         [Vol. 5 - No. 35.


 

MORE MORMONISM. -- We copy the following from the New Orleans Picayune of the 17th:

"It will be recollected that the late English papers spoke of a party of one hundred and sixty English Mormons being on their way out to this country, with the design of colonizing with Joe Smith at Nauvoo. A letter from the active and intelligent Capt. Taylor, the boarding officer at the Balize, to a friend in this city, gives us this notice of their whereabouts.

Capt. Taylor, in one of his cruises, on the 14th inst., at the bar of the N. E. Pass, was hailed by Capt. Pierce, of the ship Henry, on board which the Mormons were. Capt. T. boarded the ship, when he was informed by Capt. P. that the passengers were then, and had been, in a state of mutiny, from the time they were three days out from Liverpool. At the request of Capt. Pierce, and on his affidavit, Capt. Taylor made prisoners of the Rev. John Snyder and two others whom Pierce pointed out as the ringleaders.

Capt. Taylor took the prisoners ashore with him. They have been since brought up to the city by the tow boat Swan."



(From the regular Correspondent of the Whig.)

Springfield, Dec. 10, 1842.    
My last, I believe, was up to Wednesday the 7th, since when both Houses have been very busily engaged doing nothing.... On FRiday evening, quite unexpectly, we had a considerable flare up. Mr. Davis of Bond, introduced a preamble and resolutions denouncing the Mormons, and recommending an immediate repeal of the charter of the city of Nauvoo. -- Several violent speeches were made against the Mormons, and in favor of repeal. Messrs. Owens and [William] Smith of Hancock defended them and opposed the resolutions. Now comes the gist of the matter; and opportunity like this could not be permitted to pass, and a simultaneous attack was made on the charters of the city of Springfield, Quincy, Alton, &c. &c.... On Saturday, after the reading of several reports, the Mormons and repeal resolutions again came up... and this I presume will be the end of it -- members having let off all their steam against the Mormons, and made their speeches for Bunkum...


Notes: (forthcoming)


 
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