Freaks of Popular Sovereignty Among the Mormons
-- Resignation of W. W. Drummond, Chief Justice of Utah.

From the New Orleans Courier, April 3.

NEW GOVERNOR OF UTAH. -- We had the gratification yesterday morning of a call from Judge W. W. Drummond, of Chicago, late Chief Justice of Utah Territory. He was in that condition of fine health and spirits in which we always rejoice to see good, sturdy, manly democrats. He entertained us for a considerable time with an account of his personal and judicial experience among the saints, and of their manners, habits, history, notions and purposes. Although we were disgusted with this set of miserable fanatics from accounts which had already reached us, some relations given by Judge Drummond, in addition to those contained in his letter to Attorney-General Black, added many revolting shades to the picture.

The Judge's position, as administrator of civil and criminal law in the territory, has been such as to give him a better and probably more intimate knowledge of the workings of teh whole Mormon system than is possessed now by any one out of Utah or in it. His duties as the representative of federal judicial authority have shown him where the supreme rule of that superstition-fettered host rests, whose is the will that sawys the destinies of a considerable nation. what the motive that binds a hundred thousand inhabitants to the girdle of Brigham Young, and what the use made of their power by that astute, capable and bold hypocrite and his subordinates.

The leading characteristic of the followers of the modern Mahomet seems to be settled and abiding hatred of all "Gentiles," as they are pleased to style all who do not subscribe to their dogmas and conform to their unique and revolting creed. Although they come mainly from the Northern portion of this Republic, they look upon the United States with no other feeling than hatred. Patriotic love for the country which gave them birth, and which they disgrace has no place in their bosoms. They have been taught to look upon the United States Government as an oppressive one, whose authority they have a right to resist. All those who are without the pale of the Latter-Day Saints, whether in or out of the territory which they have usurped, they regard as their enemies. They either set at open defiance the decrees of our courts, or dictate to grand or petit juries the indictments they shall report or the verdict they shall render. In notable cases, where the guilt of criminals has been as apparent as the noon-day sun, Young and his fellow prophets have forbidden Mormon juries to render a verdict of conviction. In one instance, where a poor helpless dumb boy was tortured in many ways for months, barbarously beaten, and then, while in the agony of his mortal wounds, was fettered and drowned in a brook; when his brutal murderer was sentenced to the penitentiary, Brigham Young took him from the hands of the officer, led him into the tabernacle, proclaimed his absolute pardon, forbade any one to arrest him, and gave him a seat at his tight hand!

If Indians commit depredations on Mormons they are punished without delay or scruple, but if they rob or murder "Gentiles," the prophet extends his protection, and forbids juries to pronounce them guilty. No law except what emanates from the supreme hierarchy, receives the slightest regard.

The right of private property among the Mormons is almost unknown. Whatever the rulers need they always find means to obtain. "The Lord needs it," is a warrant sufficient to enable Young and his Council to sieze upon any property in Utah, and remonstrance is not only useless but dangerous. If a wealthy disciple arrives from the States, the Church (Young) immediately lays hold of just such a share of his goods as he pleases. -- The portion, of which the former owner is suffered to retain nominal possession, he is compelled to manage according to the dictation of some prophet or priest. If the prophet says to his neighbor "Plant that field with potatoes," the farmer would lose his lands and, perhaps his life, were he to refuse. The counsel he is thus obliged to obey, he is also compelled to ask. The result is, that the actual possession of the great mass of all the real and personal property in Utah is in the foul oligarchy of Young and his immediate subordinates.

But if the control over the property of Mormons is tyrannical, that exercised over their most sacred private and family affairs is still more so. If a father has a child, fair and innocent, whom he cherishes and loves, and if she captivates the fancy of some leading Mormon, she will be taken from her home by the decree of the elders, and given up by the ceremony of "sealing" to become the fortieth or fiftieth wife to an old villain, while her predecessors, who have grown old in the same guilty and abominable connection, become his household or cornfield servants. It often happens that a man is sealed to two women at the same ceremony, and cases are not rare when one of the wives so acquired is lost by a divorce before breakfast the next morning!

The account given by Judge Drummond of many of these connections, where sometimes a mother and two or three of her daughters were all sealed to the same man, presents a picture of beastly barbarity. Could a correct idea of thses horrible transactions be made known throughout the country, a crusade would be preached against this foul horde that would soon put an end to their sway.

We were not a little gratified to learn that none or but very few of these Mormons are natives of Southern States. Such a fact speaks volumes in refutation of the mean slanders of abolitionists against Southern society. We would congratulate our our fellow-citizens of the Northern States upon being rid of so many of their fanatics by emigration to Utah, did we not know that for every one that has left there are hundreds more whose superstition and bigotry are equal in degree if different in form. Mormonism, communism, Maine Liquor Lawism, agrarianism and abolitionism are all obscenae volueres of the same plumage, one of which are made less odious by any mutual hatred that may exist among them.

RESIGNATION  OF  JUDGE  DRUMMOND.

To the Hon. Jeremiah S. Black, Attorney General of the United States, Washington City, D. C.:

MY DEAR SIR: As I have concluded to resign the office of Justice of the Supreme Court of the Territory of Utah, which position I accepted in A. D. 1854, under the administration of President Pierce, I deem it due to the public to give some of the reasons why I do so. In the first place, Brigham Young, the governor of Utah Territory, is the acknowledged head of the "Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints," commonly called "Mormons"; and, as such head, the Mormons look to him, and to him alone, for the law by which they are to be governed: therefore no law of Congress is by them considered binding in any manner.

Secondly. I know that there is a secret oath-bound organization among all the male members of the church to resist the laws of the country, and to acknowledge no law save the law of the "Holy Priesthood," which comes to the people through Brigham Young direct from God; he, Young, being the vicegerent of God and prophetic successor of Joseph Smith, who was the founder of this blind and treasonable organization.

Thirdly I am fully aware that there is a set of men, set apart by special order of the Church, to take both the lives and property of persons who may question the authority of the church, (the names of whom I will promptly make known at a future time).

Fourthly. That the records, papers, &c., of the supreme court have been destroyed by order of the church, with the direct knowledge and approbation of Governor B. Young, and the federal officers grossly insulted for presuming to raise a single question about the treasonable act.

Fifthly. That the federal officers of the Territory are constantly insulted, harassed, and annoyed by the Mormons, and for these insults there is no redress.

Sixthly. That the federal officers are daily compelled to hear the form of the American government traduced, the chief executives of the nation, both living and dead, slandered and abused from the masses, as well as from all the leading members of the Church, in the most vulgar, loathsome, and wicked manner that the evil passions of men can possibly conceive.

Again: That after Moroni Green had been convicted in the district court before my colleague, Judge Kinney, of an assault with intent to commit murder, and afterwards, on appeal to the supreme court, the judgment being affirmed and the said Green being sentenced to the penitentiary, Brigham Young gave a full pardon to the said Green before he reached the penitentiary; also, that the said Governor Young pardoned a man by the name of Baker, who had been tried and sentenced to ten years' imprisonment in the penitentiary, for the murder of a dumb boy by the name of White House, the proof showing one of the most aggravated cases of murder that I ever knew being tried; and to insult the court and government officers, this man Young took this pardoned criminal with him, in proper person, to church on the next Sabbath after his conviction; Baker, in the meantime, having received a full pardon from Governor Brigham Young. These two men were Mormons.

On the other hand, I charge the Mormons, and Governor Young in particular, with imprisoning five or six young men from Missouri and Iowa, who are now in the penitentiary of Utah, without those men having violated any criminal law in America. But they were anti-Mormons -- poor, uneducated young men on their way for California; but because they emigrated from Illinois, Iowa, or Missouri, and passed by Great Salt Lake City, they were indicted by a probate court, and most brutally and inhumanly dealt with, in addition to being summarily incarcerated in the saintly prison of the Territory of Utah. I also charge Governor Young with constantly interfering with the federal courts, directing the Grand Jury whom to indict and whom not; and after the Judges charge the Grand Juries as to their duties, that this man Young invariably has some member of the Grand Jury advised in advance as to his will in relation to their labors, and that his charge thus given is the only charge known, obeyed, or received by all the Grand Juries of the federal courts of Utah Territory

Again, sir, after a careful and mature investigation, I have been compelled to come to the conclusion, heart-rending and sickening as it may be, that Captain John W. Gunnison, and his party of eight others, were murdered by the Indians in 1858, under the orders, advice, and direction of the Mormons; that my illustrious and distinguished predecessor, Hon. Leonidas Shaver, came to his death by drinking poisoned liquors, given to him under the order of the leading men of the Mormon Church in Great Salt Lake City; that the late secretary of the Territory, A. W. Babbitt, was murdered on the plains by a band of Mormon marauders, under the particular and special order of Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, and J. M. Grant, and not by the Indians, as reported by the Mormons themselves; and that they were sent from Salt Lake City for that purpose, and that only; and as members of the Danite Band they were bound to do the will of B. Young as the head of the Church, or forfeit their own lives.

These reasons, with many others that I might give, which would be too heart-rending to insert in this communication, have induced me to resign the office of Justice of the territory of Utah, and again return to my adopted State of Illinois. My reason, sir, for making this communication thus public is, that the democratic party, with which I have always strictly acted, is the party now in power, and therefore is the party the should now be held responsible for the treasonable and disgraceful state of affairs that now exists in Utah territory. I could, sir, if necessary, refer to a cloud of witnesses to attest the reason I have given, and the charges, bold as they are, against those despots who rule with an iron hand their hundred thousand souls in Utah, and their two hundred thousand souls out of that notable territory, but shall not do so, for the reason that the lives of such gentlemen as I should designate in Utah and in California would not be safe for a single day.

In conclusion, sir, I have to say that, in my career as Justice of the Supreme Court of Utah territory, I have the consolation of knowing that I did my duty; that neither threats nor intimidations drove me from that pat; upon the other hand, I am pained to say that I accomplished little good while there; that the judiciary is only treated as a farce. The only rule of law by which the infatuated followers of this curious people will be governed, is the law of the church, and that emanates from Governor Brigham Young, and him alone.

I do believe that, if there was a man put in office as Governor of that territory, who is not a member of the church (Mormon,) and he supported with a sufficient military aid, that much good would result from such a course; but, as the territory is now governed, and as it has been since the administration of Mr. Fillmore, at which time Young received his appointment as Governor, it is noon-day madness and folly to attempt to administer the law in that territory. The officers are insulted, harassed, and murdered for doing their duty, and not recognizing Brigham Young as the only law-giver and law-maker on earth. Of this every man can bear incontestable evidence who has been willing to accept an appointment in Utah; and I assure you, sir, that no man would be willing to risk his life and property in that territory after once trying the sad experiment.

With an earnest desire that the present administration will give due and timely aid to the officers that may be so unfortunate as to accept situations in that territory, and that the withering curse which now rests upon this nation by virtue of the peculiar and heart-rending in. situations of the territory of Utah may be speedily removed, to the honor and credit of our happy country,

   I now remain your obedient servant,
                                                    W. W. DRUMMOND,
                                            Justice Utah Territory.
March 30, A. D. 1857.


Notes: (forthcoming)

NEW GOVERNOR OF UTAH. -- The Washington Union announces, at the head of its leading editorial column, that it understands that the Governorship of Utah Territory has been tendered to Major Benjamin McCullough, of Texas, and "that there is every reason to believe he will accept the office," The Union says: "It would be difficult to name another person who combines in himself so many qualities for the successful discharge of the duties of this important and delicate trust as are undoubtedly possessed by major McCollough." This reads much as if the Administration intended bestowing unequivocal attention upon the Salt Lake community. It is presumed that the great mass of the Mormon people will be gald to avail themselves of an opportunity to escape from the loathsome and exacting despotism of the obscene prophets, and that the notorious braggart, Brigham Young, could not, if he dare, raise much of a rebellion.


Notes: (forthcoming)

==> The Utica (N. Y.) Herald of April 21st says: "Eight hundred Mormons passed through this city night before last en route for Utah. They occupied some 30 cars. They were mostly English and Scotch. One of the 'leaders' had a pleasant little responsibility of fifteen wives."


Notes: (forthcoming)

Beauties of Brigham Young.

In one of this "old sinner's" discourses at Salt Lake, we notice sundry gems, which may, perhaps, be read with the same instruction and profit, as going to show the sort of spiritual food which the "saints" in that region regale themselves with:

BRIGHAM DISCOURSES ON GOATS.

"As I have frequently said to the brethren, stop, hold on. If you have sheep, and have become a shepherd in the field of Christ, you must know your sheep, and that then they will know you, that is, if you have got sheep. Perhaps some of you are nursing a flock of goats, and do not know the difference. But if you actually have a flock of sheep, you should, instead of hallooing to them 'shoo shoo, shoo, get out of the way,' take a course, that when they hear your voice, they begin to bleat and run for their shepherd, because he has a little salt for them."

BRIGHAM CAN CHASTISE.

'When a man or woman ought to be chastised, I am able to do it, and will do it righteously. If they need a severe chastisement, I can put it on severely; if a light one, I can bear on with a light hand."

JOS. SMITH NOT RESURRECTED.

"I thought many would understand Bro. Heber as saying that Joseph was resurrected, and I take this opportunity to correct this misunderstanding. Joseph was not resurrected; and if you will visit the graves you will find the bodies of Joseph and Hyrum yet in their resting places. Do not be mistaken about that; they will be resurrected in due time."

BRIGHAM ON KEEPING SECRETS FROM WIVES.

"Some men and women fairly get sick, so that they have to go to bed. What is the matter? "O I feel that I cannot stand it any longer?" What is the matter, sister? "My husband knows something that he cannot tell me." Do some of you men know something that you cannot tell your wives? "O, I have received something in the endowment that I dare not tell my wife, and I do not know what to do about it." The man who cannot know millions of things that he would never tell his wife, will never be crowned in the celestial kingdom, never, Never, NEVER! It cannot be; it is impossible."

A WOMAN'S SECRETS LIKE A NEWSPAPER.

Do you know anything that I should keep fast locked in my bosom? Yes, thousands of things pertaining to other people, that ought to sleep as in the silent grave. Do those things go from me to Bro. Heber? No. To my wife? No, for I might as well at once publish them in a paper. Not that I wish to undervalue the ability, talent and integrity of women, for I have many women to whom I would rather reveal any secret that ought to be revealed, than nine hundred and ninety-nine out of a thousand men in this church. I know that many can keep secrets, but that is no reason why I should tell them my secrets. When I find a person that is good at keeping a secret; so am I; you can keep yours, I mine."

---

The News.

... Col. A. Cumming had been appointed Governor of Utah.

The administration have at last decided upon sending a formidable body of troops to Utah. Orders have been issued for the dispatch to that Territory of the Second regiment of dragoons, the Fifth and Tenth regiments of infantry, and Captain Phelps' battery of light artillery, numbering in all some two thousand men, under the command of Gen. Harney. This is said to be only the beginning of the movement...

The Mormons had commenced the work of expelling the Gentiles from Utah...


Notes: (forthcoming)

From the Chicago Press,

Some Facts about Mormonism.

We have had a number of interviews with the Hon. W. W. Drummond since his arival in this city from Utah, and have learned much from him of the manner in which affairs are conducted in that modern Sodom. Judge Drummond expresses freely his belief that the design of Brigham Young and the Mormon leaders generally is to build up a sovereignty in Utah, acknowledging no allegience to the Constitution and laws of the United States. Even now the Mormons draw a broad line of distinction between themselves and American citizens. They glory in the appellation of Mormon, while American is a term of reproach among them, synonymous with "Gentile."

How Gov. Young Exercises the Pardoning Power. -- Judge Drummond states that all the monstrosities that have been published concerning the Mormons, and their acts, but feebly express the condition of affairs in that Territory. The first Court he held there was at Fillmore. It occupied fifty-nine days, fifty of which he was engaged in twenty-seven cases of prosecution. The juries only convicted two -- and before they went to prison, Gov. Young pardoned both of them.

Murderers Acquitted. -- Carlos Murray, a nephew of Elder Kimball, comitted a cruel, cold-blooded murder, and fled. The Marshal -- a Mormon -- raised a posse and pursued him -- arrested him and brought him back. He was tried, and though the proof was as clear as could be, the Mormon jury, without leaving their seats, returned a verdict of not guilty, and he was acquitted! The arrest and trial of this man cost the United States about $20,000.

The Way the Mormons Fleece the Government. -- One way in which the Mormons fleece the United States Government is as follows: Some of the leaders will bring complaints against "bad Mormons" who, say they, we wish punished by the laws of the United States, so as to put ourselves right before the world. Warrants are made out, and as it is an Indian country, a posse -- Mormons of course -- is raised to assist the Marshal, who ramble over the Territory, arrest them, bring them to trial when they are acquitted by a Momron jury. Meanwhile the bill of costs is sent to the Marshal. In this way the Government is robbed of thousands of dollars.

A Mormon Leader who Killed Seven Men. -- Murder there isd almost a common occurence. One of the chiefs of the church is a notorious fellow named Wm. A. Hickman. He has murdered as many as seven persons, and has never been bro't to trial. The last man he killed was a Mormon, who would not promise not to sell goods to the "Americans." Hickman buried an axe in his brains. The murderer is the same person who figures in the scenes of which Bonney gives an account in his "Banditti of the Prairies." He has been tried for different offences in Hancock county, in this State, before Judge Purple, always contriving to evade the law.

The Design of the Mormons regarding the Indians. -- It is the design of the Mormon leaders to gain over to their side the chiefs of the various tribes of Indians -- have them baptized into the Church, and so possessed of the malignity of Mormonism towards the United States, as to make them hostile to all Americans, and in time be able to use them to accomplish their own ends.

Searching the Mails. -- The mails of the United States have been habitually broken up, and nothing can go out or come into the Territory safely unless by private carriers.

Wife Whipping. -- Whipping women is a common occurrence. Gov. Young's hired man whipped one of his (Young's) in his presence till the blood trickled down her back -- and that while the woman was within one month of her confinement. The crime was disobedience to the laws of the church.

Judge Drummond to be murdered by order of the Church. -- Elder Hyde (who has recently left them) stated that he and Hickman (spoken of above) were set specially apart, by the Danite band to murder Judge Drummond. The deed was to have been committed last July while crossing to Carson Valley. Hyde stated this publicly, before the Legislature of California.

Brigham Young indicted for Counterfeiting -- Douglas's knowledge of the fact. -- Judge Purple, of this State, informed Judge Drummond that at the time Fillmore appointed Brigham Young Governor of Utah two indictments were pending against him in the U. S. District Court for this State, for making and passing counterfeit money. Young was appointed Governor of Utah at the express solicitation and recommendation of Senator Douglas -- at the time these indictments were pending against him. -- Douglas and Fillmore are the most popular men for the Presidency in Utah. This is the reason.

How a Mormon is served when he attempts to leave Utah. -- Judge Drummond also informs us that when a Mormon makes up his mind to leave the Territory, he informs Brigham Young, who says, "Oh, yes, you can leave. Pay up your tithes -- don't steal anything -- and then you can leave and go to h--l." One man, named Benbow, from Kenosha, Wis., resolved to leave Mormondom. He paid his tithes -- paid all his debts -- settled his whole business, and starting off, taking with him his cattle, goods, and wagons. He had not proceeded homeward, however, over 150 miles, when he was overtaken by a posse, who arrested him because of a debt which was stated to be unpaid. Benbow looked at the claim, and stated that he never owed the claimant a cent; but rather than go back he would submit to the imposition, and offered to pay the sum demanded. This was not sufficient -- he must pay the costs, which he at length agreed to do, by turning out some of his stock. But no -- he must go back to Salt Lake City -- such was the order. he had to submit -- he went back, and his goods, cattle, and wagons, were taken the next day, and sold under the hammer, without trial, without law -- except the orders of the leaders of the church. He is now in Utah, without means to take him out of the Territory.

These constitute but a small portion of the revelations made to us by Judge Drummond. Is it not true, as we said the other day, that a strong arm is needed in Utah?

---

==> We print considerable interesting matter on Mormonism to-day. We learn that emissaries of these land pirates at Salt Lake are now preaching in this valley, and that they have made some converts in the Tualatin Plains. There is no doctrine so monstrous and black but what devotees can be found to it, and we presume that if a paper was started among us advocating the introduction of polygamy, 'just to save the Union," quite a number of subscribers could be had for it. The woman who will embrace Mormonism, and go to Salt Lake, deserves to have 365 husbands.


... at a call from Brigham Young of $700 per annum each, we should probably witness an emigration of several footpads, with a knapsack strapped across the back marked "for Utah." Upon arriving at Salt Lake, the "new democratic papers" that would start up, would be characterized by the same tone that is alluded to in the following item which we clip from the New Orleans Delta:

"The Deseret News (Brigham Young's organ) assumes a defiant and warlike tone; declares that the principle of squatter sovereignty shall be vindicated by the Mormons; and that under it the people of Utah have the right to choose their own institutions, without regard to the General Government."


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Mormon Wife.

(Written by a Mormon lady of Salt Lake City, for the Weston Argus.)

We were poor but we were happy, my good man and myself.
  For we prized each other fondly, and we craved not worldly pelf;
And our lowly little cottage was a paradise of love,
  And we fancied that the angels smiled upon us from above.

But a stranger came among us with a smooth and oily tongue,
  And my husband lent his reason to a wily syren song;
And his heart grew discontented with our rude and humble cot,
  And he panted for more freedom and a less secluded lot.

So we left our little cottage and we roamed the wild praries through,
  To the dwelling of the Prophet, the wild city of Nauvoo;
And we built a new log cabin, and we fenced a garden round,
  And commenced a new existence on its consecrated ground.

I was far away from kindred, but while he was by my side,
  I could utter not a murmur, though I often sadly sighed;
For he loved me very dearly, and was ever good and true,
  And I strove to make life happy in the city of Nauvoo.

It was evening, in jy garden, I waited his return,
  O with what affection did my earnest bosom burn!
He was more to me than stars of gold; I lived the ground he trod;
  I was bowing indolatry forgetful of my God,

He came, but one was by his side, a stranger to our roof,
  But why should afright me? could I doubt my husband's truth!
Her eye was flashing joyously with happiness and life,
  But I knew not theb as afterwards she too was his wife.

Another came, and she must share my place within his heart.
  How sank within my deepest soul grief's poison pointed dart.
My love, nor thought, nor throb, could know, but what was all his own,
  Why did he bring another queen to reign upon my throne?

Around his knees at eventime his laughing children twine,
  Alas! that I should call aught his that never can be mine,
My life has grown all burdensome, my cheek is thin and wan,
  And all its light and happiness is gone -- forever gone.

I strive to feign contentedness, to wear a cheerful smile,
  But my heart within my aching breast is breaking all the while;
Yet for a little time I know the conflict I must brave,
  Then this weary bosom shall repose within the silent grave.

Notes: (forthcoming)

BRIGHAM YOUNG, THE MORMON. -- It appears from an article in the Buffalo Commercial that President Fillmore, in appointing Brigham Young to Governorship of Utah, did so after consulting many respectable persons in the several States, among them Col. Thos. L. Kane, of Philadelphia, a brother of the late Dr. Kane the Artic navigator. Col. Kane spent many months in Utah, and at that time formed a high opinion of Brigham Young. It seems, however, that at the time the appointment was made, the doctrine of polygamy was not avowed by the Mormons, and that if they practiced it, they did so and concealed the fact from the world. They have since incorporated it in their creed as one of their leading articles, and have openly defended it, and hence the just indignation which has everywhere been expressed throughout the country. It is further stated that Brigham's nomination was confirmed by the United States Senate without the slightest opposition.

---

Summary Death of Elder Pratt.

Seduction of a Wife in California -- she deserts her Husband, steals away her children, and is sealed as the ninth concubine to her debaucher.

It is with regret we have to chronicle the homicide, committed in our vicinity on Wednesday last, by Mr. Hector H. McLean, late of San Francisco, California, upon the person of a Mormon preacher. -- More than all do we deplore the melancholy affair that led to its commission. -- The deceased, whose name was Parley Parker Pratt, was a man of note among the Mormons, and judging from his diary and his letter to Mrs. McLean, he was a man of more than ordinary intelligence and ability. He had been a preacher and missionary of the Mormons at San Francisco, California, where he made the acquaintance of Mrs. McLean, whom he induced to embrace the Mormon faith.

She was at that time living with her husband, Hector H. McLean; they were happy and prosperous until she made the acquaintance of Pratt, and embraced the Mormon faith. She is the mother of three children by McLean, two boys and one girl, and seemed to be an intelligent and interesting lady; converses fluently, and with more grace and ease than most of ladies. About two years ago, and soon after she became a convert to Mormonism, she made an attempt to abduct two of her children to Utah, but was detected and prevented by her brother, who was then in California, and residing with his brother-in-law, Mr. McLean. She soon after, however, found means to elope with said Pratt to Salt Lake, where it is said that she became his ninth wife.

After the elopement of Mrs. McLean, her parents, who reside near New Orleans, wrote to McLean, in Claifornia, to send the children to them. He did so. Several months after this, Mr. Mclean received news that his wife had been to her father in New Orleans, and eloped with the two youngest children. He immediately left San Francisco for New Oreleans, and on arriving at the house of his father-in-law, he learned from them that Mrs. McLean had been there, and after an ineffectual attempt to convert her father and Mother to Mormonism, she pretended to abandon it herself, and so far obtained the confidence of her parents, as to induce them to entrust her in the city of New Orleans with the children, but they soon found she had betrayed their confidence and eloped with the children.

They wrote McLean in San Francisco, who, upon recept of their letter, went to New Orleans, and learning from them the above facts in relation to the affair, immediately started in pursuit of his children. He went to New York and then to St. Louis. While in St. Louis he learned that the woman and children were in Houston, Texas. On his arrival in Houston he found that his wife had left some time before, to join a large party of Mormons en route for Utah. He then returned to New Orleans, and from there to Fort Gibson, in the Cherokee Nation, with the expectation of intercepting his wife and children at that point.

On arriving at Fort Gibson, and while there, he found letters in the Post Office to his wife, from Pratt, some of which were mailed in St. Louis, and others at Flint Post Office, Cherokee Nation. We are unable to give the contents of these letters with particularity, but they contained the fact that McLean was on the lookout for her and the children, and that they were betrayed by the apostates and Gentiles; and advising her to be cautious in her movements, and not to let herself be known, only to a few of the saints and elders. -- Mclean then, upon affidavit made by himself, obtained a writ from the United States Commissioner at that place for their arrest, and succeeded in getting them arrested by the United States Marshal. -- They were brought to this place for trial, and after an examination before the Commissioner were discharged.

Pratt, as soon as released, mounted his horse and left the city. McLean soon after obtained a horse and started in pursuit and overtook Pratt about eight miles from the city and shot him. Pratt died in about two hours after receiving the wound. This is a plain narrative of teh facts as we heard them from the most reliable resources, which we give to our readers without comment, as we feel that we are unable to do so with justice to all parties. But deeply do we sympathize with Mclean in the unfortunate condition in which Mormon villainy and fanaticism have placed him. --   Van Buren (Ark.) Intelligencer.


Notes: (forthcoming)

                                                               For the Oregonian.
                San Ramon, Cal., July 4, 1857.

Mr. Editor: -- ... It is currently reported here that Brigham Young has fled from Salt Lake, with about 2000 followers, for your state or Washington Territory, and if so, you will doubtless hear of him about Walla Walla or Whitman's station, and it is to be hoped he may received a reception suited to his official status. The atmosphere it seems, is rather warm for the peace and comfort of his excellency at Salt Lake...

---

Intelligence from St. Paul, Minnesota, has been received... The troops from Fort Snelling, ordered to Utah, were to leave on the afternoon of the 8th ult...

Philip P. Thomas has declined the governorship of Utah. The salary is only $2500... Col. Richardson of Illinois has also declined. It is going begging -- even Major Hoipkins of Florida had the refusal.... Emery D. Patten, of Ohio, has accepted one of the vacant Utah Judgeships... -- Cincinnati Commercial, June 23.

---

From Salt Lake.

Mr. Wilkins, an apostate from Mormonism, arrived on the 11th inst. at Placerville with news from Salt Lake to the 30th May, twenty-two days later than previous advices.

Brigham Young (as heretofore reported) had gone north with his expedition fully equipped, with three months' provisions, and a train of eighty wagons. It is supposed that he has gone in search of a locality to defend the faithful against the expected troops from thr East. He exhorts all the Saints, if it comes to a fight, to kill each his man, and his salvation is securred.

The destroying angels are busy engaged at their hellish eork, murdering and robbing those who are apostates.

Wilkin and party is composed of twenty six persons, eight of whom are women. After leaving Salt Lake they were arrested by a large body of Mormons, and taken back on a charge of horse stealing. As no evidence, even for a Mormon court, was offered against them they were discharged at the request of one Mesick, who knew three of them in San Franscico -- he being the Clerk of the Court. After that they were hunted like wolves, day and night, until they reached Goose Creek Mountains, over 100 miles from Salt Lake, when the Mormons made a charge on them, killing six of their animals.

One-half of the population would leave, and will do so, if the government sends a sufficient force to protect them.

Brigham declares that if the Saints will stand by him and the Church, he will be President of the United States in less than ten years.

Williams, the lawyer, had fled. The destroying angels were on his track, and it was not known if he escaped them. Open and avowed murder of all who have and are becoming obnoxious, is advocated in public assemblages; in fact, an offer was publically made in a meeting, by one of the faithful, to murder two traders at Box Elder, near the city, who had incured the displeasure of Elder Lorenzo Snow, if they did not leave by June 1st.

A train of one hundred wagons had left Salt Lake, bound for the States, all of which belonged to Apostates.

Now deiisentions are continually arising. That which causes the most ill feeling, is Brigham sealing young girls to old men. Several heads of families were put out of the way, as they call it, on suspicion of their being Apostates, by which means they prevent the families from leaving. Several who heretofore have been in the confidence of the high priests, are known to have been murdered in attempting to leave secretly.

Seven ladies, with their families, whose husbands had made their escape, begged to be taken away by Wilkins' party, expecting daily to see some of their number dragged to the harem of some of the anointed.

Brigham preaches open rebellion to all attempts on the part of the government to establish a foothold in his territory. he has inaugurated a new law by which he governs disobedient wives, by degreading and maling menials of them -- depriving them of the right to marry or have a protector. It is called an "Earthly Hell." -- Sac. Union.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Interesting Letter from Judge Drummond
-- Real State of Affairs in Utah.

                                         Chicago, Ill., Monday, May 4, 1857.
To the Editor of the New York Daily Times:

Sir: -- A valued friend of mine has just presented me an extract of a communication from Feramorz Little, of Great Salt Lake City, which made its appearance in some one of the New York papers, in which this high functionary of Mormonism, this Elder of the Latter Days, this member of the "quorum" of the "seventies," this spiritual brother-in-law of Gov. Brigham Young, this tool, agent and abettor, in the blackest crimes that the malignant heart of men can conceive, has had the church duty to perform in denying the allegations in my communications to Attorney-General Black. In the first place he asserts that the books and records were not destroyed. I assert that they were, that Mr. Little well knew it at the time of the black outrage, and that in his capacity of Elder he sat in judgment on certain members of the Church and cut them off, for the reason that they expressed a degree of dissatisfaction at that high-handed outrage of the High Priesthood of Mormonism.

Again he asserts that at the time that he left Salt Lake there were no persons in the Penitentiary of Utah save three Indians, who were convicted in A. D. 1854. This, I assert, is a gratuitous and unmitigated falsehood, and well-known by Mr. Little; and that there were at least four young men in the Utah Penitentiary who were tried and convicted before Elias Smith the Probate Justice of Great Salt Lake City and County, in March, A. D. 1856, and severally sentenced for fourteen, sixteen and eighteen months; and that, too, without those men having committed any criminal act known to the law books save the Mormon Priesthood, and that they were in the Penitentiary when he left Salt Lake City, and that he knew that fact.

Again: I assert that a man by the name of Lewis was tried and convicted before George Peacock, Probate Judge of Manti County, in Dec. last, of assault and battery, and put in the Penitentiary of Utah for five years' time, and that before he was incarcerated in the prison that he was castrated by a Mormon mob, all of which Mr. Little well knew and no doubt had an active hand in this bloody outrage.

Again, he asserts he never heard anything of the murder of the dumb boy, Whitehouse, by the English Doctor named Baker. I assert that Mr. Little's connection with that band of Church-licensed pirates and murderers well-known as Danites or Destroying Angels, is such as to keep him fully and promptly posted in all the nefarious acts of the Church, and in this case in particular, that he well knew that Baker was tried and should have been hung for one of the most brutal murders ever committed by the hand of man; that the Jurors did find him guilty of murder in the second degree, and that he, Baker, was sentenced to the Penitentiary in care of Deputy Marshal Anson Call, on Wednesday, and promptly pardoned by Gov. Young without ever seeing the inside of the Penitentiary, before the following Sunday; that Hosea Stout and John Bair were the lawyers who defended Baker, and that Joseph A. Kelting was the counsel for the Government on the trial; that Lewis Bronson, Wm. Stevens, Allen Russel, George Catlin, John Cavir, Chas. Price, Jeremiah Hatch, John Mangum, Warren Snow, Wm. Holden, and Orville Cox were the Jurors who tried the case.

Again, Mr. Little asserts that the murder of Col. Babbitt, on the Plains, last Fall, is all fancy, &c. Mr. Editor, I wish it was so; that Col. Babbitt was a bad man and a murderer, no man will deny, neither did I expect Mr. Little and his numerous licensed coadjutors in crime to acknowledge that they had murdered Babbitt and Sutherland, while on the way to the "peaceful valleys of the mountains;" but, Sir, it is the base and cruel act, the manner in which it was done, of which I complain. If Babbitt was worthy of death, let him be tried by a constitutional jury of his country, and not by a self-constituted court, known as the Melchisedec Priesthood, or higher law of a Church whose code is stained with the blood of countless scores. Babbitt had been in and out of the Church, as occasion seemed to require, for nearly twenty-nine years, and at times, when under the influence of liquor, told many solemn truths on the subject and design of Mormonism, among which were the secret oaths administered to the male members of the Church, all of which are pregnant with treasonable designs; and for this overt act the poor unfortunate fellow lost his life, in strict obedience to the absolute law of the Church, all of which Mr. Little well knew.

In connection with this communication I send you an affidavit made by Hiram A. Watson, now a resident of the city of Chicago, and a gentleman who enjoys the confidence of all who know him (save the Mormons;) and as Mr. Watson has been a minister of this Church, and was honest enough to leave it after losing several thousand dollars worth of property, I fancy that his statements will be taken for far more real worth than the man who is still in the meshes of the Church, who is still the pliant, willing and obedient tool of the Church, whose duty it is not only to say openly that the charges against the Mormons are untrue, but it is his duty to go into Court and swear that they are false and untrue, which he would assuredly do.

But, Sir, why is it that all the appointees under both Fillmore and Pierce's Administration so nicely agree as to the disloyalty of the Mormons, and their open and secret rebellion to the laws and instructions of the country? Does not the universal language of all these men agree in this state of facts? Certainly, Sir, no man will have the presumption or ignorance to take any other view of the subject. Then you must conclude that these men tell the simple truth as far as they go, or that they have all joined together as enemies to the truth.

Tear up the graves of a Shaver, a Harris, and of Babbitt; call together all the judges, secretaries and Indian agents, who have not been under the baneful influence of Mormonism, and in one universal tongue will they recite the same state of stubborn facts which constitute now a record that will yet agitate this happy country from centre to circumference. The American people, thank heaven, are kind and benevolent to a fault; hence, Sir, those arch-traitors are relying on that benevolence; and while the parent Government deals with this Territory as a rude child, in loose kindness, every effort is being made to bring into that Territory a class of ignorant aliens from foreign countries to build up an independent republic in the midst of the most beautiful republican form of Government that civilized men ever beheld, and after ages will yet point to America as a stench in the nostrils of all refined and civilized countries, unless a firm and speedy step is taken to suppress that spirit of organized hostility to our common country: and I, for one, Sir, confess that I have but little hope of seeing this question fairly and promptly met by this administration; but it will be met in the pulpit and on the rostrum, by politicians in after years, as a stepping-stone to political preferment, which should certainly be avoided; but will it?   Respectfully yours,
                                                      W. W. DRUMMOND.


MR. WATSON'S AFFIDAVIT. -- The following is the affidavit referred to in Judge Drummond's letter:

State of Illinois, County of Cook, ss. -- Hiram A. Watson being first duly sworn on oath, says that he is well acquainted with Feramorz Little of Great Salt Lake City, in Utah Territory; that this affiant was once a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of latter-Day Saints (commonly called Mormons), and lived in Great Salt Lake City for near three years, during which time he took three endowment degrees in the Church, and, that he knows from the order and secret organization in the Mormon Church that Mr. Little, as well as all other male members of the Church of the same degree and standing in the Church, have taken such oaths and obligations as to bind them to open hostility to the form of Government in the United States; that he is acquainted with Judge W. W. Drummond, late a Judge in Utah Territory, has read his letter of resignation in office, and from what he knows of Mormonism, he can fully vouch for much of what Judge Drummond charged against the Mormons in his letter of resignation, and that from what he has heard from reliable information he believes the whole to be true; that he knows Feramorz Little to be worthy of death under the laws of the country, and that the said Little is bound by his oath to the Mormon Priesthood to contradict the charges and statements of Judge Drummond, as well as all other Federal officers, relative to Mormonism, be they ever so true, or forfeit his life to the hands of Mormon assassins for failing to contradict the statements of the Gentiles and that said Little has often aided and abetted in the commission of murders at the request of his brother-in-law, Brigham Young, and that it is a part of the Church duty, of the whole Church, to murder and pit out of the way all who may question the authority of the Church, or disobey the will of Brigham Young; and that the secret organization of the Church is one of determined hatred to the American people, and particularly to the Constitution and laws of the United States; and that Mormonism teaches its Church members neither to obey nor respect any man in office or authority under the laws of the United States or any of them, unless that officer be a Mormon; and that he is bound to execute the will of the Church, and disobey the law of the land, or lose his life, according to the law of the Mormon Church, and further the deponent saith not.

Subscribed and sworn to before me, this 29th day of April, 1857.
                                                  H. A. WATSON,
W. L. Church, Clerk of Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois.

---

==> On the outside of this paper will be found Judge Drummond's letter we referred to last week, together with the affidavit of Mr. Watson, who had been a Mormon.

---

==> From a letter to the Advocate at Salem from Gen. McCarver, dated Washington City, May 19th, we clip the following extract:

"Information was received to-day, at the State Department, from major Ben McCulloch, that he declines the Governorship of Utah, tendered him some time since. Our high functionaries at Washington are evidently at a loss to find a person in every way suitable for that place. -- Your humble servant was called upon this morning in relation to the Utah governorship by some of his over-zealous friends, but it was no go. I can stand Indians, but not Mormons."

To those who know General McCarver, this will afford an item for a hearty shaking of the sides. It seems that although to General is returning home with no commission in his pocket from Buchanan, his lucky escape from having one forced upon him is duly heralded by the Advocate in advance of him.

Who the "over-zealous friends" he speaks of were, and what they said to him in relation to the ":Utah Governorship," we are only left to infer from the fact that "it was no go," and his declaration that he "can stand Indians, but not Mormons."

We think that the General's narrow escape from having the Governorship of Utah saddled upon him, was truly providential.

---

==> The Mormon Elders left us last Monday in disgust, after holding forth on Sunday to a slim and sleepy audience. -- Our citizens treated them with respect, and paid some $24 in cash for the use of the room for them to speak in, and although
Not an egg was thrown,
Not an insult passed, they failed to convert any body and we have not even heard of any one's being "under conviction."

---

==> The Governorship of Utah has been declined by Ex-Gov. Thomas of Maryland, and by Col. Richardson of Illinois. -- It is thought that Col. Cumming, who has once declined, may now be induced to accept. Dr. Emery D. Potter of Ohio has accepted one of the Utah Judgeships, and the other has been offered to Judge Eckles of Indiana, who it is believed will accept.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE POPULATION OF UTAH. -- The facts which have been elicited within the last few weeks show that the "Saints" have systematically palmed off spurious enumerations upon the public. In the early part of the year 1853, the Mormons estimated their strength in Utah roundly at from 30,000 to 35,000, but at the fall conference of that year, as appears from the regular census taken by themselves, they did not quite come up to 19,000. According to information obtained from the Mormon agency in St. Louis in 1855, it appears that the immigration of 1854 was only about 3,500, that 2,600 was the sum total reported as shipped from Liverpool for 1853, and that 3,000 only were the numbers intended to be sent over the plains the same year. With these data, and making a fair allowance for the loss and gain, the population in 1855 was estimated by the Hon. B. G. Ferris at 18,500. From these slender figures they have gone on magnifying their population until they have actually induced most persons to believe it one hundred thousand. At the present time it does not reach 40,000.


Notes: (forthcoming)

==> Mrs. McLean, the wife of the man who shot Pratt, the Mormon Elder, has published a defence of her conduct, and of Pratt. It shows the great delusion of which she has been made the victim. She accuses her husband of neglect previous to her conversion to Mormonism, and acquits the Mormon Elder of having attempted to get her away from him. She says that all the advances were made by herself. -- Her story is intermingled with scraps of very bad verses, and shows that her husband did not lose much when she ran away from him. She certainly was not worth killing even a Mormon Elder for.

---

BRIGHAM YOUNG ON SECRETS. -- In the course of one of Brigham's sermons, that individual said: " Do you know anything that I should keep fast locked in my bosom? Yes, thousands of things pertaining to other people, that ought to sleep as in the silent grave. Do those things go from me to Bro. Heber? No. To my wife? No, for I might as well at once publish them in a paper." The question arises: -- If a man with forty wives, has no faith in women, how shall it be with those who have only one?


Notes: (forthcoming)

                                                         For the Oregonian.

The Mormons.

              Fresh Lake City, July 25, '57.

Editor Oregonian -- Dear Sir: Our community is now under considerable excitement, owing to the presence of some Salt Lake pirates -- traitors! Four Mormon emissaries, self-styled missionaries, are now lurking about in "these diggings." occasionally preaching some of the peculiar beauties of Mormonism. Since the arrival of these hocus pocus actors, the three or four families among us that belonged to this order of "earth's rejected," when they were driven from Nauvoo, have been revived in the Jo Smith faith, except the husband of one. Four new converts were caught, three of which have already backslid, while one, a female, who having been assured by the holy prophet Stewart, that she was "to become the mother of many nations," sticks with double geared, steam concentrated adhesion. If she is to be the mother, who are to be the fathers?

Knowing that Salt Lake Mormonism is treason, we are resolved that men shall not sow the seeds among us. Men are set apart by the leaders of this chief of humbugs, to murder their influential opponents, as in the case of Judge Drummond, who was to be killed by Hickman and Hyde, by order of the Danites. Are Oregon and Washington Territories to have the seeds of this treasonable heresy sown upon their soils? Are we the sons of revolutionary sires to tamely submit to a lawless banditti? While our patriotic countrymen are being slaughtered at Salt Lake and vicinity, by Mormon order, without provocation, are we to suffer the advocates of this murderous villainy to preach its justification in our midst? Mormon preachers endorse, as a matter of course, Salt Lake cruelties, hence it is the light of impudence for them to attempt our conversion to their despotic and murderous religion!

While the Danites (destroying angels) are deputing a few of their banditti to murder the staunch opponents of their hellish creed, the leaders have men among us, preaching a very flattering bible doctrine, not a particle of which is believed in Salt Lake. Mormonism is not preached here, it is mere catch-trap deception, which accounts for the new conversions. A young gentleman who wintered at Salt Lake in the winter of 1850, where he learned their systematic opposition to our federal government, and something of their popular cruelties, is now very successfully opposing and exposing them. On Sunday the 12th inst., he addressed a large concourse of citizens, among whom were the old bogus, the hypocritical and the new made Mormons, the last mentioned of whom, were rescued and now are done with the hellish ism. He ably and fearlessly denounced the organization as a growing conspiracy -- a systematized robbery. He is after them and will not cease his opposition until he witnesses the expulsion of the last pirate preacher from our shores.

The citizens are resolving to spoil Mormon missions here. My patient brothers prepare to drive these traitors from our land; maintain the legacy bequeathed to us by our revolutionary fathers! No man who loves our laws, constitution and government, can consistently harbor these villainous conspirators. No, it would be taking to our bosoms the venomous serpents -- "lending clubs to break our own heads."

Peaceably warn them to leave our county, if they refuse, force them from it. Our community is resolved to drive them hence; if they come among you, drive them elsewhere! Remember our patriot brothers who have fallen at Salt Lake and other places. Remember their robberies at Nauvoo and Far West. Remember that these Mormons are resolved upon the overthrow of our government, that they may build in its stead the most cruel despotism! Remember their past history, and ask, are we not bound by the sense of duty, to drive this element from our land? Let our motto be: Our country first, our country last, our country always. No Mormonism or treason among us.

Mormon preachers leave, or take what comes.   CATO.

---

Atlantic News.

... The President has offered the appointment of Surveyor-General of Utah to Col. John C. Hays, of San Francisco, to settle the question of settlers' rights, and to apportion the government lands.


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Utah Expedition.

                                                Washington, June 29.

To-day official orders and instructions were sent to Gen. Harney, who is to have command of the Utah expedition. It is to be composed of the 2d Dragoons, the 5th and 10th Infantry, which will shortly be at Fort Leavenworth, together with the battery of the 4th Artillery, now at that post; all of which will be prepared to march to and establish post at or near Salt Lake City; and at the earliest practicable day, he (Gen. Harney) will put troops en route, but will until that time retain his present command of troops in Kansas.

On the 6th of January next, after the territory of Utah shall have been entered by the troops, it will constitute a new and separate military department, to be styled the "Department of Utah," to be commanded by Gen. Harney, or the senior officer present, who will from the time of leaving Forth Leavenworth, be the commander of a separate army in the field, within the sense of the 56 article of war.

The armament and equipment deemed most suitable for the service of the battery of artillery, will be selected, and if necessary, extended in guns and horses by the commander of the expedition. The post at Salt Lake City, when established, and any other posts, not exceeding two in addition, that may be established in Utah, will be included among the "Chaplain-posts." and "double ration posts," of the army. Capt. Duncan leaves here to-morrow, to take charge of the troops now at Carlisle Barracks, intended for the Utah service.

Yesterday afternoon 250 U. S, recruits took their departure by the New York and Eire railroad for Leavenworth City, Kansas, where they will join the command of 3,000 men, that is to accompany the new Governor of Utah to Salt Lake City.

---

"Two Mormon emissaries were in town last week. Wonder if they are after wives and spirituals in Oregon!! They lectured on polygamy on Saturday last. -- Decent and virtuous people should give them a thorough letting alone."

We copy the above from the Salem Christian Advocate, italics and all. Now the editor of that paper, Rev. T. H. Pearne, on that very Saturday on which the Mormons lectured, (in the Court-room,) went into a room in the lower part of the building expressly to listen to this lecture on polygamy, and did listen to it with the utmost interest, and denounced the lecturer as a "hypocrite" and "servant of the devil." According to his own advice to others, he is neither "decent or virtuous."

"Do not as some ungracious pastors do,
Show me the steep and thorny way to heaven,
Whie, like a puff'd and reckless libertine,
Himself the primrose path of dalliance treads,
And heads not his own teaching." Which is the most "decent and virtuous," and which is the most manly, we ask the Advocate editor, if maleness can find place in a heart habitually awry, to go openly into the hall, and listen to a Mormon lecture, or sneak into an adjacent room, and eaves-drop

And then how came a clergyman, if his thoughts were chaste and pure, as a clergyman's ought to be, to think and write of "wives and spirituals" first, and only in connection with Mormonism? Mormonism has other features besides its polygamy, and a pure mind need not necessarily and would not think of that alone, or first, in considering it. It is seen and read that nature has emblazoned sensuality upon the Advocate editor's face; can it be that it is equally as strongly infused into his composition?

Then too, this ungenerous and obscene "fling" at the two Mormon preachers, is highly characteristic of its author, and aptly illustrates his time-serving character. The Mormons are a despised and hated people in Oregon; we suppose there is not a person within the borders of the Territory who does not repudiate their faith, and practices; and unless persecuted, they are not likely to make a single convert; -- therefore it is popular to assail them, and hence the editor of the Advocate does so. But were they numerous in Oregon, and becoming more so. The Advocate editor would either applaud, or be as silent as death concerning them, and importune them to subscribe for his paper. If human nature has one feature more disgusting than any other, it is that of time-serving and trimming.

The Advocate editor will now call us a "Mormon" probably. It would be in keeping with his candor and honesty. -- But he should be careful and not contradict himself, for if we are an "infidel" as he says, we can't be a "Mormon." However, the Advocate editor can call us "Mormon," "infidel," "atheist," or anything else he thinks will excite prejudice against us. We are all we profess to be, and no man can call us insincere, or a canting hypocrite. -- Czapkay's Organ.


Notes: (forthcoming)

CALIFORNIA EMIGRATION. -- The St. Louis Republican of the 13th June says:

Among the passengers in the Morning Star yesterday, were the United States Marshall, P. K. Dobson, and T. D. Pitt, from Salt Lake. They left Salt Lake on the 15th of April; they were out forty-five days from Salt Lake to Independence. They report the grass on the plains very slim, and were surprized to see the emigrants' cattle look so well. They met the first trains twenty miles this side of Fort Kearney, getting along as well as could be expected, and all generally healthy. They report some three companies of United States Dragoons at Fort Laramie, and about the same number at Fort Kearney, all well. Met more or less emigrants every day, with large numbers of stock; estimated that 10,000 wagons and 30,000 cattle would cross the plains this season for California.

---

UTAH. -- The difficulties to be encountered in Utah are more numerous and complicated than is now generally supposed. Among them may be incidentally mentioned that Brigham Young claims a title to all lands in the territory, and has never recognized the United States surveys. None of his followers have purchased land in accordance with our laws, Hence one of the delicate duties of the federal courts of that territory will be to establish and maintain the rights of those who may hereafter purchase in accordance with our laws. Not an individual in all Utah now holds a foot of land the title of which is derived from the United States, and it follows, under this strange condition of things, that all parts of the territory are at the present time open to preemption. -- Washington Union.

---

                                                         For the Oregonian.

Anti Mormon Meeting.

                                            Lewis River, W. T., Aug. 8, '57.
Editor Oregonian: -- The following resolutions were adopted at a meeting of the citizens of Lewis River, held on Sunday, Aug. 21, which we desire published in your paper, that our position may be correctly known to our fellow countrymen:

   Wm. Ginder, Jno. Simmons, Wm. Miller, R. T. Lockwood, G. Kinder, Wm. Irvine, C. H. Fairchild, M. Webb, and others.

---

Resolved, That Salt Lake Mormonism is treason; that it authorizes murder, robbery, and breaking open of the United States mails. That every inducement is employed to proselyte the less investigating of our fellow-citizens to its creed.

Resolved, That the confiscation of individual property to church purposes as practiced by the leaders of this gigantic conspiracy is a virtual denial of the essence of the declaration of American Independence, and [looks] to the subversion of the basis of civil polity.

Resolved, That Brigham Young and his coadjutors in professing to receive revelations from God, are guilty of the basest blasphemy and the most criminal deception.

Resolved, That we too highly prize the blessing of liberty and too strongly adhere to the laws of our country, to be willing that they should be wrested from us, (who have been reared in "the land of the free and the home of the brave,") by Mormon usurpers and conspirators.

Resolved, That we are opposed to men preaching among us, who endorse the outlawry, the tyranny, the bloody cruelties of the Mormon leaders, and that we therefore civilly invite the Mormon preachers now among us, to leave our community, or renounce their connection with the Mormon church; and that we suggest to those two or three families among us, who have been harboring, thereby "giving aid and comfort to the enemy," that a sense of propriety requires them to desist this unpatriotic business.

Resolved, That while we are unwilling to employ coercive measures, or use personal violence in executing out determination, we shall not fail to adopt such a course of action as shall fully accomplish our object -- trying the virtue of severer means, when milder fail.

Resolved, That the oath administered to the members in the "endowment" is treason steeped in blood! and that taken by members on entering into the church, but little better


Note: About a month after the Republican article was printed, the majority of the U. S. troops stationed on the western frontier were on their way to occupy Utah Territory. Although hand-carried reports of the troop movements reached the Mormon leaders in Utah before the end of July, the portentous event was not yet common knowledge in the far west when the Oregonian reprinted the Republican's news report.

==> On the 28th of October last, Hiram F. Morrell was appointed postmaster at Salt Lake City, Utah, in the place of Elias Smith, removed. The credentials were regularly forwarded from the Department, but never delivered to Mr. Morrell. Duplicates followed, with no better success. Mr. Morrell, being now at the seat of the General Government, has received his commission, qualified before the Hon. Geo. P. Stiles, associate judge of Utah, now in Washington, entered into the bonds required, and will start, fully empowered to take charge of the post office ar Salt Lake City.


Note: (forthcoming)

SUMMARY MEASURES. -- That old sinner, Brigham Young, in a late speech to his "Saints," made the following declaration, which has a light air of parental severity:

"Were my daughter to marry a Gentile, I would save her in this kingdom, namely cut her throat from ear to ear."

"Gentiles" visiting Salt Lake City, will please to notice, as Brigham has some forty wives, it is not impossible that his daughters are equally numerous.


Note: (forthcoming)

S P E E C H

OF THE

HON.  ABRAM  LINCOLN,
(Of Illinois.)

DELIVERED AT SPRINGFIELD, JUNE 26, 1857.

In Reply to Hon. S. A. Douglas.
___________

Utah, -- Kansas, -- The Dred Scott Decision.

FELLOW CITIZENS: -- I am here to-night, partly by the invitation of some of you, and partly by my own inclination. Two weeks ago Judge Douglas spoke here on the several subjects of Kansas, the Dred Scott decision, and Utah. I listened to the speech at the time, and have read the report of it since. It was intended to controvert opinions which I think just, and to assail (politically, not personally,) those men who, in common with me, entertain those opinions. For this reason I wished then, and still wish, to make some answer to it, which I now take the opportunity of doing.

I begin with Utah. If it prove to be true, as is probable, that the people of Utah are in open rebellion to the United States, then Judge Douglas is in favor of repealing their territorial organization, and attaching them to the adjoining States for judicial purposes. I say, too, if they are in rebellion, they ought to be somehow coerced to obedience; and I am not now prepared to admit or deny that the Judge's mode of coercing them is not as good as any. The Republicans can fall in with it without taking back anything they have ever said. To be sure, it would be a considerable backing down by Judge Douglas from his much vaunted doctrine of self-government for the territories; but this is only additional proof of what was very plain from the beginning, that that doctrine was a mere deceitful pretense for the benefit of slavery. Those who could not see that much in the Nebraska act itself, which forced Governors, and Secretaries, and Judges on the people of the territories, without their choice or consent, could not be made to see, though one should rise from the dead to testify.

But in all this, it is very plain the Judge evades the only question the Republicans have ever pressed upon the Democracy in regard to Utah. That question the Judge well knows to be this: "If the people of Utah shall peacefully form a State Constitution tolerating polygamy, will the Democracy admit them into the Union?" -- There is nothing in the United States Constitution or law against polygamy; and why is it not a part of the Judge's "sacred right of self-government" for that people to have it, or rather to keep it, if they choose? These questions, so far as I know, the Judge never answers. It might involve the Democracy to answer them either way, and they go unanswered.

As to Kansas. The substance of the Judge's speech on Kansas is an effort to put the free State men in the wrong for not voting at the election of delegates to the Constitutional Convention. He says: "There is every reason to hope and believe that the law will be fairly interpreted and impartially executed, so as to insure to every bona fide inhabitant the free and quiet exercise of the elective franchise".... [Lincoln's remarks on the situation in Kansas follow]

... And now as to the Dred Scott decision. That decision declares two propositions -- first, that a negro cannot sue in the U.S. Courts; and secondly, that Congress cannot prohibit slavery in the Territories. It was made by a divided court -- dividing differently on the different points. Judge Douglas does not discuss the merits of the decision... [Lincoln's remarks on the Dred Scott case follow]

... How differently the respective courses of the Democratic and Republican parties incidentally bear on the question of forming a will -- a public sentiment -- for colonization, is easy to see. The Republicans inculcate, with whatever of ability -- they can, that the negro is a man; that his bondage is cruelly wrong, and that the field of his oppression ought not to be enlarged. The Democrats deny his manhood; deny, or dwarf to insignificance, the wrong of his bondage; so far as possible, crush all sympathy for him, and cultivate and excite hatred and disgust against him; compliment themselves as Union-savers for doing so; and call the indefinite outspreading of his bondage "a sacred right of self-government."

The plainest print cannot be read through a gold eagle; and it will be ever hard to find many men who will send a slave to Liberia, and pay his passage while they can send him to a new country, Kansas for instance, and sell him for fifteen hundred dollars, and the rise.

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LINCOLN'S SPEECH. -- We publish this week the speech of the Hon. A. Lincoln of Illinois, delivered in the State House at Springfield, in reply to that of Senator Douglas, on Utah, Kansas, and the Dred Scott decision. It is unnecessary to tell any one from central Illinois who Abe Lincoln is, and to others we may say that if there is any one in the State able to cope with the "little giant" of black democracy, he is the man. Mr. Lincoln served one term in Congress, and last year in the Republican national convention ran next to Dayton for the nomination on the ticket with Fremont. It is possible that he will succeed Douglas in the U. S. Senate, should the Republicans carry the Legislature next year.

We agree in the main with Mr. Libcoln's views, and ask for the speech an attentive perusal, sepecially as it is a fair offset to Douglas's speech published in the pro-slavery Messenger.

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UTAH. -- The Mormons generally deride the idea of the exertion of military force against them. They have among them shrewd lawyers and diplomats, who will contrive to keep all Mormondom within the pale of constitutional law. Over the consciences of the Mormons the federal authorities can excercise no control, and their morals cannot be improved by force of arms. It is probable that they will be careful to commit no overt act of treason, but their juries will be so constructed that a due and impartial administration of justice will be impracticable.

The idea that the Mormons can be exterminated or expelled from the country, or that their fanaticism will be repressed by force is totally absurd. Treason against the Constitution and laws of the United States may be punished; and this is the extent of the power of the Federal Government over this matter.

There is nothing in the Constitution that justifies a crusade against polygmists any moe than against Abolitionists, or Romanists, or Clavinists, or even Hard-Shell Baptsists.

But the administration does not share in the extravagant views which are put forth on this subject, and the instructions to Gov. Cumming will be, to take care that the laws of the United States be observed in the Territory, and to exert every constitutional power to secure the due administration of justice.

---

BRIGHAM YOUNG'S PERSONAL APEARANCE. -- In person he is above the medium height, and a little inclined to corpulency. He is dressed in black cloth, and, although the air is very warm, he is well wrapped up in an overcoat. His habits of life make him very sensitive to the slightest changes in the atmosphere. He has suffered a good deal in his younger days, and this with the cares of his family -- for his children are very refractory -- begin to weigh heavily upon him. His constant struggles and difficulties with the United States officers not only try his patience, but also wear his body. His consuming anxiety about his object of ambition -- the establishment of an independent kingdom, -- and his efforts to maintain the people in constant and implicit submission, are sufficient to leave their mark on any man's physique. he is now fifty-six years old; and, although young-looking in features, still evinces his age in person. His face is indicative of penetration and firmness. -- Some ladies think him handsome; but his lower lip, if nothing else, eminently betrays the sensual voluptuary.

Note: The above engraving of Brigham Young, although contemporary with the article it accompanies, was not published by the Argus. It comes from an illustrated newspaper of that period.

The immigration to California via the plains is reputed larger than any other year since '52. One half of those having control of the wagons are heads of families, [and are ------- ---- ----] immigration [----] from Missouri, Iowa, Texas and Arkansas. All the trains have cattle and many of them mules and horses. As far as known, there are 25,000 head of cattle, and from 2,000 to 3,000 head of mules and horses. The cattle have been affected with a disease peculiar to the Humboldt and Carson Valley, many dying. But few deaths have occurred among the immigrants. Many of them are stopping at Carson Valley and taking farms....

A party of Mormons, obeying the orders of Brigham Young, left San Francisco on the 17th ult. [August] for Salt Lake.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE NEW GOVERNOR OF UTAH. -- Col. Cumming, the new Governor of Utah, who is to put an end to the reign of "Brother Brigham," is said to be a gentleman of the exact type of character best suited to that most difficult and responsible post. Conversant with all phases of life, and experienced in every degree of fortune, he is admirably adapted to exercise executibe functions in the Territory to which he has been appointed. Col Cumming was at one time an extensive merchant in Augusta, Ga., but failed. Removing to St. ouis, he established himself as a sutler to the forces stationed at Jefferson Barracks, and was subsequently appointed Indian Agent, the duties of which he discharged with great discretion and judgment. -- Baltimore Sun.


Notes: (forthcoming)

EASTERN BOUND EMIGRANTS BY OVERLAND ROUTE. -- Wm. I. Johnson and company arrived at Salt Lake City, on the 4th July, and left on the 7th. They were from California and went by way of Pitt River and Nancy Lake Valley, having left Yreka June 3d. They experienced no trouble from the Indians and expected to reach the frontiers of the States early in August.

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ONE MONTH LATER FROM SALT LAKE. -- Our files of Deseret News, via San Bernadino are to August 5th. The sermons of the Saints breathe defiance against the United States Government, and people out of the pale of Mormonism.


Notes: (forthcoming)

UTAH Washington, Aug. 2. -- The instructions to Gov. Cumming were completed to-day. They are brief and specified. He is to see that the laws of the United States are faithfully executed. No man in Utah is to be affected for his political or religious opinions, but held responsible for his conduct. Should the civil authorities be unable to enforce the laws, military forces are then to be employed. -- While Gov. C.'s powers are ample for all practical purposes, much is confided to his discretion. -- Cor. N. Y. Times.


The Mormon Standard of San Francisco holds the following language in reference to the new appointments:

"No man can be governor of Utah but Brigham Young. he has no need to commit any overt act of treason, nor to, in the least, oppose the rule of another man -- for he is firmly seated in the affections of the people as their prophet and seer -- as an honest man, and one whose interests and welfare are theirs. As such they will seek him for counsel and guidance. Whoever may be the Washington appointee, the acts of the Territorial Legislature will be but the reflex of the mind of Brigham Young. * * *

"We predict that the new Governor and other officials will be received at the Utah capital with due courtesy, and that no obstacle will be thrown in their way to prevent them entering upon their official duties. The Saints will act upon the principle that it is better to be friends than enimies. * * * But there will be no civil cases for Gentile courts to adjudicate. The Mormons possess the Constitutional right to arbitrate their difficulties and settle them among themselves, and they will do so."


Notes: (forthcoming)

OVERLAND EMIGRATION FOR OREGON. -- We are informed by Mr. J. W. Berry, of Logansport, Indiana, who has just arrived across the Plains, that there are five hundred wagons, and about fifteen hundred emigrants en route for Oregon. He left the Oregon emigrants at Bear River, who were coming on the Fort Bridger or Northern route. The party were well armed, and prepared for any emergency with the Indians. They had a large amount of fine stock, which was in good order. The grass was good all the way. When Mr. Berry left the train no difficulty had occurred except a little fight with the Sioux Indians. on Sweetwater, eight miles from Devil's Gate. Four whites were killed, and between twenty and thirty Indians. The whites drove the Indians back. Mr. B. informs us that he met fourteen hundred United States troops between Forts Kearney and Laramie, on their way to Salt Lake.


Notes: (forthcoming)

SUICIDE. -- J. B. Backenstos committed suicide by drowning himself in the Willamette river, opposite this city, on Friday night, September 25th.

Note: This is the same J. B. Backenstos who served as sheriff of Hancock county, Illinois during the "Mormon War."

==> Col. J. B. Backenstos of Portland committed suicide by drowning, on Friday night of last week.

Note: For more on Jacob. B. Backenstos' suicide, see the Oregonian and the Oregon Statesman, both of Nov. 28th.

THE PACIFICATOR OF KANSAS AND THE CONQUEROR OF UTAH. -- In personal appearance, General Harney is impressive... Analyze the quality of character... and I think you will discover the traits which military men consider to fit General Harney eminently as the leader of this Utah expedition. -- N. Y. Tribune.

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==> The Mormons have all left Carson's Valley, California, and gone to Salt Lake by order of Brigham Young. Their farms have been purchased by newly-arrived immigrants from the States.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Atlantic  News.

... The splendor of the Utah expedition, says the Tribune, is quite faded away. Only two regiments of dragoons will go to Salt Lake. The troops will remain in Kansas, for service at the polls.... Gen. Harney will remain in command of Kansas. Col. Albert S. Johnson, late from Texas, has been assigned the command of the troops to Utah.

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IMPORTANT ARMY ORDERS. -- Washington, Sept. 3 -- The War Department has issued an order to the following effect: It being deemed advisable [sic, inadvisable?] to detach Brevet Brigadier General Harney from service in kansas, Col. A. S. Johnson of the Second Cavalry is assigned to the command of the Utah expedition, and will proceed to join the saem without delay.

As Col. Sumner of the First Cavalry may be daily expected, with his column of horse and foot, Gen. Harney will in anticipation, dispatch the civil officers to Utah on thei mission, and remain attached to the command of Col. Johnson.


Notes: (forthcoming)

==> "Have you a fellow feeling in your bosom for the poor women of Utah?" asked a speaker of the sister of Mrs. Partington. "Get out you insulting rascal!" said she, "I'll have you know I don't allow fellows to be feeling in my bosom. Oh dear!"


Notes: (forthcoming)

==> The last Advocate goes for a law to prevent Mormons from preaching in Oregon. We are sorry to see any public journal favor such intolerance. It is enough for the border ruffians to legislate against freedom of speech, and we wish to enter our solemn protest against such a movement, no matter how humble a source it comes from.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Horrible Massacre of Emigrants.

J. Ward Christian writes to the Los Angeles Star, as follows:

                                                  SAN BERNARDINO, Oct. 4, 1857.

I take this opportunity of informing you of the murder of an entire train of emigrants on their way from Missouri and Arkansas to this State, via Great Salt Lake City; which took place, according to the best information I can possibly acquire, (which is primarily through Indians,) at the Mountain Meadows, which are at or near the rim of Great Basin, and some distance south of the most southern Mormon settlement, between the 10th and 12th ult. It is absolutely one of the most horrible massacres I have ever had the painful necessity of recording.

The company consisted of about 135 men, women and children, and including some 40 or 45 men capable of bearing arms. They were in possession of quite an amount of stock, consisting of horses, mules and oxen. The encampment was attacked about daylight in the morning,so say the Indians, by the combined forces of all the various tribes immediately in that section of the country.

It appears that a majority of them were slain at the first onset made by the Indians. The remaining force formed themselves into the best position their circumstances would allow, but before they could make the necessary arrangements for protecting themselves from the arrows, few were left to bear arms. After having corralled their wagons, and dug a ditch for their protection, they continued to fire upon the Indians for one or two days, but the Indians had so secreted themselves that, according to their own statement, there was not one of them killed, and but few wounded. The emigrants then sent out a flag of truce borne by a little girl, and gave themselves up to the mercy of the savages, who immediately rushed in and slaughtered all of them, with the exception of fifteen infant children, that have since been purchased with much difficulty by the Mormon interpreters.

I presume it would be unnecessary for all practical purposes, to relate the causes which gave rise to the above described catastrophe, from the simple fact that it will be attributed to the Mormon people, let the circumstances of the case bewhat they may. But it seems, from a statement which I received from Elders Wm. Matthew and Wm. Hyde, who were in Great Salt Lake City at the time this train was there, recruiting their "Scout," and were on the road to this place at the time when they were murdered, but several days' journey in the rear -- somewhere about the Beaver mountains, which is between Parawan and Fillmore cities -- that the causes were something like these: The train camped at Corn creek, near Fillmore City, where there is an Indian village, the inhabitants of which have raised a crop of wheat, and a few melons, &c. And in trading with the Indians they gave them cash for wheat, and they not knowing the value of coin were severely cheated. They wanted a blanket for a sack of wheat, but they gave them fifty cents, and told them that amount would buy a blanket.

They also had an ox with them which had died, and they put some strychnine in him, for the purpose of poisoning the Indians; also put poison of some description in the water, which is standing in holes. This occasioned several deaths among them, within a few days after the departure of the train. And upon this, it seems, the Indians gathered themselves together, and had no doubt chosen the place of attack, and arranged everything before the train arrived at the place where they were murdered.

It was ascertained by some of the interpreters, from a few of the Indians who were left at Corn Creek, that most of the Indians in the country had left, but they could not learn for what purpose, and before any steps could be taken to ascertain for certain what was the cause, the story was told -- they were all killed.   Yours truly,
                                                    J. WARD CHRISTIAN.

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MORMON TOASTS. -- The Mormons of Philadelphis had a picnic recently and the proceedings were published in the Mormon. We give a couple of specimens of the "regular toasts""

Brigham Young -- The Lion of the Lord. When he roars in the mountain the whelps stick up their ears. Such a getting up stairs I never did see.

The Requirements of Brigham Young -- The mandate of heaven. Let Israel respond to his calls, or share the fate of Gentile nations.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE MORMON OATH. -- The guilty and treasonable oath which the 40,000 or 50,000 Mormons now in Salt Lake valley, and many others scattered in all parts of the country, have taken upon themselves at the hands of Brigham Young and the Danite followers, reads as follows:

"You do solemnly swear in the presence of Almighty God, His holy angels, and these witnesses, that you will avenge the blood of Joseph Smith on this nation, and teach the same to your children; that you will from this time hence and forever begin and carry out hostilities against the nation; and to keep the same intent a profound secret, now and forever, so help me God."


Notes: (forthcoming)

MORMONISM. -- The following letter, which should have appeared in the Advocate, is published as a news item. It will be seen that Elder Stuart has made some proselytes to the church of "latter day sinners." We think, however, that a goodly number of the "twenty-four baptized" persons are such as have "fallen from grace" and have been re-baptozed:

                                        Oregon City, Oct. 27, '57.

Editor Argus -- Sir: To avoid misrepresentation, I here represent myself. And thinking this the proper place for confession, I proceed at once, by saying, I am that "Mormon" Elder who has raised the devil in the country, and caused him to show his cloven foot among Christians. -- Their "Advocate," Br. Pearne, would (if he had the power) not only deprive us of religious liberty, but of our constitutional rights, the freedom of speech! And this from the editor of a public journal, professing to be an American, and a minister of the Gospel! It is a disgrace to the country, and a blight on the cause of Christianity. Since we have been in your midst, I have violated no law, sought no privilege but that which the Constitution gives to every American citizen. I have observed the Mormon creed, "Mind your own business." I would recommend it to Brother Pearne and others who are finding fault with the Mormons. I have traveled and preached in all the principal towns in the Territory; have baptized twenty-four persons, organized two churches -- one on the coast fork of the Willamette river, the other on Pleasant Hill, ten miles from Oregon City -- and am now on my way to Washington Territory. Good day, and believe me ever the friend of all good men.
                                         DAVID M. STUART.

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===> The Mormons have adopted a new alphabet with forty-one letters. Messrs. Ludew & Peers of St. Louis have just furnished the Deseret News the punches and matrices of the new alphabet.


Notes: (forthcoming)

PROPOSED NEW TERRITORY. -- Some two months since, the residents of Carson Valley held a public meeting, at which they resolved to memorialize Congress for the erection of a new territory east of the Sierra Nevada, including that and several other valleys at the base of the mountains. On the 3d inst., the residents of Honey Lake Valley held a meeting and endorsed this action of their Carson Valley brethren. The design is to include in this new territory the great basin between the Goose Creek range of mountains on the east, and the Sierra Nevada on teh west, and between the Oregon and Utah line on the north, and the Colorado river on the south.

Both the meetings referred to elected Judge J. M. Crane their delegate to lay the subject before Congress. The Honey Lake Valley people resolved that if any attempt be made to bring them under the jurisdiction of Claifornia, before the boundary line between this State and Utah has been officially surveyed, they will resist it, with all the power they can command. A committee has been appointed to ask the Legislature of California to [enter] and transfer all the State's interests to all lands lying east of the Sierra Nevada, to the United States Government, so that theirs may be established on the other side.

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THE LATE MASSACRE ON THE PLAINS. -- The report of the late massacre has been fully confirmed. The number of persons slaughtered by the Indians was 118. Great excitement prevailed in Los Angeles on the announcement, shortly after the receipt of the news, that parties were in town who corroborated all the statements that had been previously made.

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ANOTHER MASSACRE, PROBABLY. -- Mr. W. W. Smith, who arrived yesterday, Nov. 4, in Sacramento, furnishes the Journal with some additional news from Carson Valley from which we copy the following:

Mr. Blacklord, who arrived a short time before Mr. Smith left, reports that several trains whose arrival should have been made some days ago at a point of safety, are supposed to have been cut off by the Indians. No other satisfactory reason can be given for the delay. They were heard of, all well, at the head of the Humboldt, and no news of them has since been received, although they should have been in many days ago. The Washoes have all left the valley and not one of the tribe has been seen since the present difficulties.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Utah Affairs and the Mormons.

Five hundred kegs of power was recently seized by Col. Hoffman from one of the Mormon trains, en route to Salt Lake.

We learn by a letter from leavenworth, dated the 19th, that Secretary Hartnett had left Leavenworth on the afternoon of that day, with the baggage wagons, to join the expedition to Utah which had preceded him a day or two. The force under Col. Johnson does not exceed two thousand men, but it is well provided with everything to make the march a pleasant one -- St. Louis Democrat.

The United States Indian Agent at Fort Laramie has informed the Interior Department, that the Mormons have initiated measures to control the trade with the Indians, by making settlements every twenty or thirty miles. He calls on the Secretary to remove them, saying if this be not done, the Mormons will become exceedingly troublesome, and defeat any policy our Government may adopt with the Indians. It is plain the Mormons are acting in that matter in violation of law.

A gentleman lately arrived at Lexington, Mo., from Salt Lake, states that the Mormons have fortified Fort Bridger, with the express intentions of defending it against the United States troops.

The Washington Union says, a letter dated Fort Kearney, Sept. 5th, was received in Washington on the 17th. It states that a party of returning Californians, who passed through Salt Lake on the 25th of July report that the evening before they left that city, the Mormons arrested Mr. Wilson, whom the late Surveyor-General Barr left in charge of the office, and, with a rope around his neck and a pistol at his breast, compelled him to answer several questions which they propounded about Bell, Mogo, and others. Mogo was connected with the Surveyor-General's office. The Mormons made Wilson promise to bring Mogo to them during the next day, before they released him. Mogo obtained information of these proceedings, and immediately quitted the city, leaving his wife behind him, so precipitate was his retreat. They went in pursuit of Landon and the other clerk, but Landon escaped by jumping out of the second story window. He went that night somewhere south, and the report is that he was overtaken and killed. As the Californians made but a brief stay, they were unable to ascertain what became of Wilson.

They also say that the Mormons were making preparations for a fight, and did not conceal their hostile intentions. Elder Kimball, in his harangue in the Tabernacle, laughed at the idea of sending United States troops to Utah, and says he could "take his wives (thirty or forty of them,) and whip the twenty-five hundred troops, and come back and do a good day's work afterward." He further said, that provisions for the army would come into the Valley, but the troops would never enter Salt Lake City.

Two companies arrived at Fort Kearney on the 5th of September, en route for Salt Lake; and the Fifth and Tenth Regiments of Infantry were at that time at Fort Laramie, for the same destination.

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==> M. Gaillardet writes to the Courier des Etats Unis that the Swiss are intolerant of Mormonism. A number of Brigham Young's disciples, having lately repaired to the lake of Zurich to perform the ceremony of baptism, were set upon by the inhabitants armed with stout cudgels, and pretty roughly handled in the melee that followed. The Mormon priest received a severe drubbing.


Notes: (forthcoming)

==> Brigham lately declared in a speech at Salt Lake city, that "henceforth Utah is independent of the United States." We look upon this as only a feeble outburst of Brigham's harmless gas.


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Mormons -- Utah.

The Mormons held a conference in New York -- the last they intended holding -- on Sunday, October 11th. There were delegates present from New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and New York. Massachusetts sending the greatest number of delegates, and New York the largest number of disciples. After some preliminaries had been gone through with, and Mormon prayers and hymns been done justice to, a discourse was delivered by "Judge" Appleby, in the course of which he remarked that the time had come for the Gospel to be taken from the Gentiles. The saints were all to go to Utah, and then would calamities fall upon the wicked. The Lord had promised that after the Elders had preached He would preach to the people by earthquakes, by pestilence and fearful calamities.

The Saints who would not gather would have to deny the faith. Every true Latter Day Saint would now sell out and go to Zion, and help to build up the kingdom of God. Hypocrites would have to come in, for the day of trial had arrived. Profession of Mormonism would no longer serve a man. It was the real grit, the right stripe, ready at any moment to do anything that might be required, who would stand and ultimately be exalted to the glory of the gods.

The evening session was a most amusing one, when Brother Cleary highly commended polygamy to the Gentiles, and assured them that if they did not adopt it, they would, some fine morning, find their wives on the way to Utah -- to that land of Jehovah, where their rights would be respected. Brother Clinton next mounted the rostrum, and dealt several severe blows to Uncle Sam. He believed James Buchanan was a gentleman, and a good Democrat, and thought he would make an excellent democrat. He drove down upon him for being a bachelor, but called upon the Saints to pray for his conversion to Mormonism, when he would be comforted by a "few lambs from the fold of Israel," -- the speaker mean a few wives. President Appleby made some remarks, and after passing round the boxes for the needful to defray expenses, the choir sang a choice Mormon song, and with a benediction ended public Mormonism. The hall throughout the day was filled, and the faithful seemed to enjoy immensely the speaking, and were no doubt largely pleased at being the people destined to reign on the earth a thousand years

---

Atlantic News.

Advices from Fort Kearney, of the 24th September, states that Col. Johnson, commander of the Utah expedition, had arrived there. The Fifth Infantry, eight companies of the Tenth Infantry, and two batteries of artillery, reached Fort Laramie on the 7th ult. Col. Cook with six companies of dragoons was expected to arrive at Fort Kearney on the 5th inst. The weather was favorable, and the indications were that there would be a late fall.

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THE UTAH EXPEDITION. -- Accounts have been received at Washington from the rear detachment of the expedition to Utah. They were in camp at Blue River for the night, one hundred and thirty-four miles from Fort Leavenworth. The Governor and suite have six wagons and three carriages. It was expected that all the gentlemen composing the civil government of Utah would go out with this escort, but only Governor Cumming and Secretary Hartnett were with it. Judge Aikers and the Postmaster at Salt Lake City had gone ahead, and it is feared that the others will not be able to reach the Territory before the coming winter. Settlements are springing up on the route, but the improvements are not very substantial, being only, as a general thing, six by nine shanties or sod huts. The soil is good, but the crops are indifferent. The Utah expedition is likely to cost the government a pretty penny, but it will be money well spent. The mules, it is estimated, cost $200 each, and the horses $180. The corn stores at Blue river cost $3.10 per bushel, and the transportation to Fort Kearney and Fort Laramie will increase to the same proportion.

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MORMONS. -- It is now definitely established that the emigrant train consisting of one hundred and fifty persons among whom were over fifty women and children en route for California, were murdered by Mormons disguised as Indians.

Brigham Young and his elders have thrown off all restraint and boldly proclaim defiance to the government of the United States. -- These ferocious blood thirsty miscreants declare war to the knife against all gentiles. Thank God, there are few Americans among them, that a large majority of these deluded priest-ridden saints as they call themselves, are the scum of foreign countries. We are threatened "that all our towns and cities shall be destroyed by fire, and that too by men who are not known as Mormons."

There can no longer be a doubt of a bloody and hostile war between the Mormons and Indians combined, against the United States government, and that war is close at hand. We look [to] every steamer for the startling news of war, war, war! It would be well if the people in Oregon even, would be on their guard for any emergency.

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PREPARATIONS TO FIGHT THE MORMONS. -- A correspondent of the Sacramento Union, writing from Georgetown, El Dorado county, says: The news from Salt Lake, that the Mormons are making preparations to resist the authorities of the United States, has completely roused the feelings of the people in this vicinity, and names are already being enrolled for a company who will offer their services to the State or United States, just as soon as call is made on the State of California. Eighty to one hundred men, as good soldiers as there are in the world, most of whom are familiar with active service, will be ready, at the tap of the drum, to march to Salt Lake and assist to put down rebellion and bring offenders to justice.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Perils of the Plains -- the Mormons
and the late Massacre.

Three emigrant families arrived lately in Sacramento, by the Carson Valley route. They report, says the Union, many sad evidences of outrage and murder at different places along the route, particularly in the vicinity of Goose Creek. Near this creek, their attention was attracted by the appearance of a human foot protruding from the ground, and on examining the spot, the remains of three murdered men were found buried only three or four inches below the surface. Upon another grave there lay two dogs, alive but much emaciated, and so pertinacious in retaining their lonely resting place that no effort could entice or drive them from the spot. Their master was, most probably, the occuoant of that grave, and their presence there, under such circumstances, was a touching exhibition of canine instinct and devotion. A few miles further on, they came upon another scene of murder, where, upon the ground, were strewn a few bones, and also knots of long, glossy hair, torn from the head of some ill-fated woman. near by were the remains of three head of cattle, with arrows still sticking in them.

Reports brought by these families tend strongly to corroborate the suspicion already existing against the Mormons as the instigators, if not the perpetrators, of the recent wholesale massacre of emigrants at Santa Clara canyon. Mr. Pierce, who came by way of Salt lake, and joined the other two families at the Sink of the Humboldt, reports some five hundred Indians encamped near Salt Lake, who, as he learned from the Mormons, were retained as allies to operate against the troops sent out by the Government. he was also assured that these Indians had been instructed not to molest the emgration this year, as preparations were not sufficiently complete to enable the Mormons to make a stand against the United States. In the city itself, large crowds of Mormons were nightly practicing military drill, and there was every evidence of energetic preparations for some great event. Before his family left Salt Lake, vague declarations of a threatening character were made, to the effect that, next year, "the overland emigrants must look out;" and it was even insinuated that the last trains this year might be destroyed. From the Mormon train which recently left Carson Valley, and which these families met on the way, similar statements were vaguely communicated, one Mormon woman even going so far as to congratulate an old lady in one of these families upon her safe arrival so near her destination, and assuring her that "the last trains of this year would not get through so well, for they were to be cut off." We give these statements as we received them from members of these families, and, admitting their correctness, which we have no reason to doubt, they certainly go far to confirm a terrible suspicion.

---

PROPHETIC. -- The Yolo (Ca;.) Democrat says: "Without pretending to be gifted with prophecy, we venture the prediction that Brigham Young will at some not very distant day die of a Missourian. The people of that State are pretty well satisfied that they are the natural enemies of the Mormons, and are now nearing the time to 'get even' with that people for all past misusage. Murder and retri bution are aike to be deprecated and deplored; but the 'human nature' of Missourians is not remarkable for its capacity to meekly endure the treatment they generally receive among the disciples of Joe Smith."

---

FROM   SALT   LAKE!
_________

All accounts agree that the Mormons are very hostile to the U. S. Government and have made every preparation to resist the U. S. troops. They had taken a vote in Salt Lake City to burn every building in it and then flee to the mountains, in case the troops succeeded in making their way into the city, Large bodies of Mormons and Indians had been sent out to Fort Bridger, and along the canyons and defiles through which the road passes, to cut off the troops.

The following late intelligence concerning the Mormons, which we take from the San Francisco Herald of Nov. 14th, will be found rather interesting, as showing the disposition of Brigham and his followers toward the United States:

"The latest news from Deseret is of the utmost importance. The Saints are "in arms, and eager for the fray." Outlying posts have been established, the mountain passes possessed, ambushes planned, and localities selected in which to cache the valuables of the Mormons. Great Salt Lake City has been abandoned by its male population; the Indian tribes are in arms, and acting as picket-guards to the Saints; magazines of provisions have been stored, munitions of war prepared and distributed, and everything has been converted into a general fund to prosecute hostilities against the Government. Our citizens have been waylaid and slain by hundreds on the plains, by the Mormons and their savage allies; others have escaped only by being in their employ, and supplied with passports from their military chieftains. Their Tabernacle has resounded with the most hostile and treasonable discourses; their Elders have counseled open aggression; their Governor appointed by the Government, has taken the field at the head of his deluded followers, in open and armed opposition to that Government; -- and who will say that the Mormons have not declared war against the Government! * * *

"We have already said enough to convince the most skeptical, that the Mormons intend and will committ open hostility against the Government; but, to remove the matter beyond all doubt, we will state, on the authority of the Deseret News, of the 16th of September, that Captain Stewart Van Vleit, A. Q. M. United States Army, was dispatched to Salt Lake, by Colonel Johnston, with a letter to Brigham Young, inquiring if the Mormons would furnish supplies to the force under his command, and that he was returned without an answer to this very pertinent question. This silence on the part of the Mormons is equal to a virtual refusal, and will be so regarded by Colonel Johnston, who was at that time only one day's march from Fort Bridger, near the Mormon out-posts. We are, therefore, inevitably led to the conclusion, that actual hostilities have commenced ere this time. Brigham Young said, in his discourse, delivered in the presence of Capt. Van Vleit:

'If the troops are now this side of Laramie, remember that the Sweetwarer is this side of that place. They must have some place to winter, for they cannot come through here this season. We could go out and use them up, and it would not require fifty men to do it. But probably we shall not have occasion to take that course, for we do not want to kill men. They may winter in peace at some place east of us, but when spring comes they must go back to the States, or at any rate, they must leave the mountains.'

As the troops will not "go back," a conflict is certain to ensue. We, therefore, argue that, if the Mormons are victorious in the first onslought, the war will probably be protracted, costly and sanguinary, as their leaders will not fail to point out the "hand of providence" in their success, to their deluded followers; and it will also serve to stimulate the ferocity and confidence of their Indian allies."

The strength of the command under Col. Johnston amounted to about 1700 men, with 250 teamsters, &c. The train consisted of 130 wagons. The artillery consisted of 12 pieces, as follows: Four 6 pounders, two 12-pound howitzers, four 12-pounders, and two 32-pound howitzers.

There were about 2,700 Mormon troops at Salt Lake City and its vicinity, fully armed and undergoing a regular course of drill. Gov Young makes no secret of his resolves, but, upon receiving positive intelligence that troops would be sent to Utah, he manifested much feeling, and, in a public discurse in the Temple, in the presence of some Californians on their way to the States, he said: "I do not believe the army will be able to reach here without my assistance. I think it quite probable, however, that all the supplies will be brought in" -- evidently meaning that he would capture the supplies, and prevent the troops from entering the Territory. -- He further said: "If the U. S. authorities send a Governor to rule my people, whom I shall approve of, he will be well received," otherwise, he said, "I will send him to hell across lots."

---

We learn, just before going to press, that Col. Steptoe at the Dalles has sent in word to Portland that he has advices from Gol, Johnston to the effect that the Mormons attacked the U. S. forces near Fort Bridger and drove them back with the loss of about 300 of his men.


Notes: (forthcoming)

FROM  SALT  LAKE.

TREASON IN UTAH. -- The editor of the News thus replies to those who cry "treason":

"Talk about treason in Utah! where the Constitution and every applicable constitutional and territorial law has been honored, and where the rights and privileges of all have been invariably respected and maintained, regardless of sect or party. Such talk comes with an ill grace from our enemies, for they had better look a little nearer home where statesmen and priests cry out that there is a higher law to be observed superior to the Constitution; where party after party and state after state openly condemned a decision of the Supreme Court of the United States, severely commented upon the majority of the judges in that court, and promised and advocated resistance to their decisions; where the governor of a state utterly and with impunity disregarded a decision of the court; where civil war has raged in a territory and a vigilance committee holds sway in a state; where one state is threatening war upon another; where lynch law executed ten victims in a new state between April and July last; where a Speaker of the House of Representatives exclaimed, 'et the Union slide;' where influential speakers and writers are striving to violently array the people of a populous city against those of the state in which it is located, and so forth and so on."


KIMBALL'S THEOLOGY. -- Kimball lecturing on the 23d August said:

"I have told you the truth, every word I have spoken. You think our Father and our God is not a lively, sociable and cheerful man; he is one of the most likely men that ever lived, and when we have this sociability and cheerfulness, it is the Spirit of the Lord.

"The Spirit that is on me this morning is the Spirit of Lord, it is the Holy Ghost, although some of you may not think that the Holy Ghost is ever cheerful. Well, let me tell you, the Holy Ghost is a man, he is one of the sons of our Father and our God and he is that man that stood next to Jesus Christ, just as I stand by Brother Brigham."


TIHE EXCOMMUNICATED. -- The News of Sept. 30th, contains the following significant paragraph:

The Bishops throughout the Territory are requested to report to the Historian office, in G. S. L. City, the names of all persons cut off from the Church in their several Wards, together with the charge or charges upon which they were cut off. Let the names be written in full, and correctly spelled.


UTAH LOYAL IF LET ALONE. -- The principles of our government are good, and they will ever be observed and sustained by the inhabitants of Utah, but an administrative violation of those principles, for the express purpose of forwarding the designs of corrupt parties and enslaving American citizens, will eventuate in the direst civil war upon record, and the rending of the fairest government fabric ever reared by man. In a free government all just powers, whether of taxation, election, representation, or of any other rightful description, are justly based upon the consent of the governed.

American born and reared, knowing our constitutional rights and privileges, (as the Herald admits,) governing ourselves strictly in accordance therewith, and daring to advocate and maintainthem, it is not presumable that an intelligent people will ever tamely bow to tryanny in any shape.... -- Deseret News, Sept. 9th.


COMMENT AGAINST UNCLE SAM. -- To Utah where Governor Young and the people have at [---- ---- pursued] a kind and [----tic] policy towards the Indians, a few thousand dollars have been [---- ----] doled out by the Indian Department in Washington, to keep an awkward show of [-----] When [re--------tory] Indians have, at times, [-------] the most barbaric treatment, and destroyed the property and lives of her citizens, Utah has fought her own battles at her own expense, though hundreds of thousands of dollars are [-------ly] appropriated for, and expended in Territories, and at least in one State for the suppression of Indian hostilities, where, by the admission of the whites themselves, the Indians are more sinned against than sinning. And often when Indian agents in Utah drew drafts upon the government in payment for labor employed... even for their own... recklessly dishonored by [the party], and [---------- ----- ----].

---

THE  UTAH  EXPEDITION.

Advices from Fort Kearney, of September 24th, state that Col. Johnson, commander of the Utah expedition, had arrived there. The Fifth Infantry, and two batteries of Artillery, reached Fort Laramie on the 7th ult.

Col. Cook, with six companies of Dragoons, was expected to arrive at Fort Kearney on the 5th October. The weather was favorable, and the indications were that there would be a late fall.

The Little Rock Gazette has seen a letter from an army officer of this expedition to a friend in Arkansas. the letter bears the date, Fort Kearney, Auhust 18, and gives the strength of the expedition... [at] 1,745 men.

The artillery consists of 12 pieces, as follows: 4 6-pounders, 2 12-pound howitzers, 4 12-pounders, and 2 32-pound howitzers. The train consists of 130 wagons, and 250 teamsters and men.

There have been many desertions from this expedition, but the writer thinks, "if a proclamation could be made, that we were hurried off, from our men, and that they did not all run away from us, and a rendezvous appointed at Jefferson Barracks, that from 250 to 300 of the missing men might be collected there."

A correspondent of the New York Herald who is with the expeditionary force, writes:

The Californians alluded to assured us that there were 2,700 Mormon troops at Salt Lake City and its vicinity, fully armed and undergoing a regular course of drill, and that Governor Young makes no secrets of his resolves.

It so happened while they were at Salt Lake City, that about two hundred of them visited the place of worship, and listened to a discourse from Brigham to his people. It appears he had just received positive intelligence that troops would be sent to Utah, and manifested much feeling upon the occasion. I sing his own language, he said: "I do not believe the army will be able to reach here without my assistance. I think it quite probable, however, that all the supplies will be brought in." This was emphasized in a tone of irony, which indicated his intention to capture the supplies and prevent the troops from entering the territory. He continued: "If the U. S. authorities send a Governor to rule my people, whom I shall approve of, he will be well received," otherwise, he said, "I will send him to hell across lots." Then turning towards teh Californians, he addressed them as follows: "You can tell this to the people of the States when you reach there." Being well [scared], and feeling quite independent, one of them replied: "You may be well assured we shall tell them." Upon which Brigham rejoined: "That's right -- that's just what I want."

If his Excellency would receive wise counsel, he would in my poor judgment exercise a little more discretion in selecting his words and framing his sentences, as he may find Gen. Harney is a man who knows how to send people to the other world by as short a road as the one indicated by him, and it is not impossible, if occasion calls for it, that he may choose him to act as pioneer upon this road which semm to be so familiar to him.


Notes: (forthcoming)

MORMON MOVEMENTS -- There is a very general apparent breaking up among the Mormons in this eastern section of country. We have already noticed the discontinuance of the Mormon newspaper published in this city, and the suspension of religious worship in their usual place in Broom street. We hear also, that last Sunday, at their head quarters, at Tom's River, New Jersey, where there has been a small colony for some time, it was announced that there would be no more public services there. We understand that in Philadelphia measures are in progress for closing up the Mormon church there; public worship is to be discontinued, and all the business affairs of the sect are to be wound up forthwith. This has the appearance of decay and dissolution; but we are inclined to think that it indicates a change of policy, and that the Mormons in all parts of the country, are to be summoned to Utah. Instead of supporting missionary agencies in the eastern States, it is thought best to concentrate their forces at head quarters. We understabd that the New York society will take up their line of march for Utah early in the spring. -- N. Y. Times.


Notes: (forthcoming)

SUFFERING AMONG THE TROOPS FOR UTAH. -- Letters from officers in the Utah expedition state that the scurve is prevailing to an alarming extent among the troops, and allege that as the cause of the numerous desertions which have taken place recently. Of three thousand cattle which were driven by the troops for supplies of beef, the Indians had run off one thousand. The prospects for the winter are gloomy.


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Mormons and the late Massacres.

We copy the following extract of a letter from a Los Angeles correspondent of the San Francisco Herald:

"The chief item of interest and importance to the people of the commonwealth just now, is the late atrocious conduct of the Mormon prophet, his insane followers, and Indian allies. On the 12th inst., a public notice was posted throughout the town, and called together a large collection of citizens in the circus arena upon the public plaza. The Los Angeles Star contains full particulars of the meeting, as well as other news, and I will only add that respectable men made statements from Mormon experience, going to establish, beyond the shadow of a doubt, that our conceptions of the wickedness and abominations of Sodom are in no particular exaggerated.

"Brigham teaches the Indian tribes around him that the Americans are their common enemy; that all this American continent of right belongs to tribe of Ephaim, described in the Bible; and that the people of Salt Lake, and the surrounding Indian nation, belong to the tribe of Ephraim, and they only; and that they are going to have and possess the whole of North and South America for their inheritance.

:It was the Pay-Utalis combined with and led by Mormon instigators, who committed the late outrage. The moving cause was in part to avenge the death of P. P. Pratt, part to avenge their exodus from Missouri by the coertion of the men of Pike, and in part to cut off the "back out Mormons" who had violated their oaths and abandoned the Eternal City. This opinion is sustained by the statements of those who ought to be cognizant of Mormon policy by experience of from four to nineteen years in their midst. And who ever heard of savages sparing infants in their slaughters; much less exercising any such sense, heart, or discretion, as to save all those only who could tell no tales.

"Their system of proselyting, their increase in numbers, and munitions of war (for they have one town in Iron County devoted almost exclusively to casting cannon,) the locality in the fastness if a great interior, approached only by mountain passes, of which they alone, and their Indian allies have a perfect knowledge, renders them almost impregnible to an armed force of many thousands. This is [the] opinion intelligent men who have lived there.

"On the very morning of the appearance of the foregoing notice, Messrs. William Robb and William M. Wall, two Mormon missionaries, arrived here and put up at the Bella Union. They had just landed at San Pedro a cargo of men, women and children, from Australia, en route for the great city. They left us, however, very early next morning, their arrival being inopportune. The public meeting caused quite a sensation among the Mormons of San Bernardino, who imagined the people of Los Angeles county were about to come down upon them; and I learn that they flew around like disturbed hornets, arming themselves with the implements and munitions of war. A meeting of the same nature was called at San Bernardino just before the one here, to raise men and means to go out and meet any fugitives from the massacre, and protect their incoming emigrant trains. The people express a readiness to respond to the call of Uncle Sam at a moment's warning, but desire that legal and authoritative steps shall be taken at headquarters."


Notes: (forthcoming)

LATER  FROM  SALT  LAKE.
Proclamation of Brigham Young -- War in Effect declared
News from the Advance Guard of the United States Troops.

We copy the following important intelligence from the Marysville Herald:

(see the Argus for the same article)

Notes: (forthcoming)

LATE  FROM  SALT  LAKE.
___________
PROCLAMATION OF BRIGHAM YOUNG.
___________
WAR IN EFFECT DECLARED!
___________
News from the Advance Guard of the United States Troops.
___________

The following important intelligence is taken from the Marysville (Cal.) Herald of a late date:

We are enabled to lay before our readers, this morning, the most direct and reliable news yet received concerning the Mormon rebellion. Mr. James E. Martin and three other parties have arrived here by the way of Honey Lake, from Ham's Fork, which is about one hundred and forty miles east of Salt Lake, where the 10th Regiment of the United States Infantry (the advance guard of the troops in command of Col. Alexander) were encamped at the latest dates. Mr. Martin traveled in company with the troops, for protection. He left Col. Alexander's camp on October 7, and arrived at Honey Lake on the 16th November, very much exhausted by fatigue and exposure, having traveled almost exclusively by night, to avoid the Indians. He brings the startling intelligence that, in all probability, ere this, a battle has been fought between the troop and the Mormons.

A few days before he left Ham's Fork, Brigham Young sent out Col. Alexander the Proclamation published below, asking him what he intended doing, and informing him that he could not come into the Valley. The Colonel replied, that he was daily expecting the arrival of his commanding officer, and that he would lay the Proclamation before him on his arrival; but that he had special orders from the Presdent of the United States to go to Salt Lake City, and that no other order could be respected.

Mr. Martin says it was reported that large bodies of Mormon troops are stationed on the road between Fort Bridger and Salt Lake; and that expresses were constantly passing and repassing between Salt Lake and some point east of Alexander's enacmpment, probably carrying intelligence to the rear division of the army. Mr. Martin thinks a collision inevitable. -- Finding matters growing pretty warm, he concluded to come on to California.

The following is an exact copy of the proclamation of Brigham Young, as Governor of Utah:

Citizens of Utah:

We are invaded by a hostile force, who are evidently assailing us to accomplish our overthrow and destruction. For the last twenty-five years we have trusted officials of the Government, from constable and justices to judges, governors, and Presidents, only to be scorned, held up in derision, insulted and betrayed. Our houses have been plundered and then burned; our fields laid waste; our principal men butchered while under the pledged faith of the Government for their safety; and our families driven from their homes to find that shelter in, the barren wilderness, and that protection among hostile savages which were denied them in the boasted abodes of Christianity and civilization.

The Constitution of our common country guarantees unto us all that we do, or ever claimed. If the constitutional rights, which appertain unto us, as American citizens, were extended to Utah, according to the spirit and meaning thereof, and fairly and impartially administered, it is all that we could ask -- all that we ever have asked. All our opponents have availed themselves of prejudices existing against us, because of our religious faith, to send out a formidable host to accomplish our destruction. We have had no privileges no opportunity of defending ourselves from the false, foul and unjust aspersions against us, before the nation. -- The Government has not condescended to cause an investigating committee, or other persons to be sent, to inquire into and ascertain the truth, as is customary in such cases.

We know their aspersions to be false, but that avails us nothing. We are condemned unheard, and forced to an issue with an armed mercenary mob, which has been sent against us at the instigation of anonymous letter writers, ashamed to father the base slanders and falsehoods which they have given to the public -- of corrupt officials who have brought false accusations against us to secure themselves in their own infamy -- of hireling priests and howling editors, who prostitute the truth for filthy lucre's sake.

The issue which has been thus forced upon us compels us to resort to the great first law of self-preservation, and stand in our own defence [a right guaranteed] unto us by the genius of the institutions of our country, and on which the Government is based. Our duties to ourselves and families requires us not to tamely submit to be driven and slain, without an attempt to preserve ourselves. Our duty to our country, our holy religion, our God, to freedom and liberty, requires that we shall not quietly stand still and see those fetters forging around, which are calculated to enslave and bring us into subjection to an unlawful military despotism, which can only emanate, in the country of constitutional law, from corruption, tyranny and oppression.

Therefore, I, Brigham Young, Governor and Superintendent of Indian Affairs for the Territory of Utah, in the name of the people of the United States,

1st. Forbid all armed forces of every description from coming into the Territory, under any pretensions whatever.

2d. That all the forces in said Territory hold themselves in readiness to march, at a moment's notice, to repel any and all such invasion.

3d. Martial law is hereby declared to exist in the Territory, on and after the publication of this Proclamation; and no person shall be allowed to pass and repass, into or from this Territory, without a permit from the proper officer.

Given under my hand and seal, at Great Salt Lake City, Territory of Utah, this 15th day of September, A. D. 1857, and of the Independence of the United States of America, the eighty-second. year
                             BRIGHAM YOUNG.


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Mormons.

Capt. Van Vliet, U. S. Army, who was sent by Gen. Harney to Utah, to gather necessary information concerning the disposition of the inhabitants, the geography of the routes to the Territory, the condition of the crops, &c., has returned to Washington with the result of his mission.

Capt. Van Vliet arrived at Salt Lake City on Sept. 8th and remained there a week. His measurements of its distance from Fort Laramie was 318 miles -- from Fort Laramie to Fort Leavenworth, as measured by Col. Smith, 628 miles -- the total distance of Salt Lake City from Fort Leavenworth being 1,140 miles.

He was received with much consideration, and invited to partake of the hospitalities of the leading men of the city. -- An official dinner was given in his honor by Heber C. Kimball, and he had daily interviews with Brigham Young and the other dignitaries of the Mormon Church.

Their expressed determination, from first to last, was, to resist at all hazards the entrance of the troops this autumn. When they were reminded of the certainty that in case their resistance one year should be effectual, a force would be dispatched to Utah the next, against which twice their population in arms would strive in vain to close the passes, they replied that they had considered all that, and that when such a force has stormed those passes, they would enter a valley in which not one shrub would be green nor one stone remain upon another. They look upon the present movement of the Government as only the renewal of the persecutions which they complain of having endured in Ohio, Missouri, and Illinois, and they are determined to resist it at the outset, and never will permit United States troops, or the officers appointed by the U. S. Government, to get a foothold in their dominions. In all their public declarations, and in their private conversations, this sentiment is boldly avowed -- they will never suffer the troops to enter the city, and if they do, it will be after the town has been committed to the flames, the country around it laid waste, and all the inhabitants have fled to the mountains. Their fanaticism knows no bounds; they believe Brigham Young to be the appointed agent of the Lord, and whatever he commands them they will perform with alacrity. They say that they have provisions sufficient to last them three years, and that, persecuted as they have been and are, by the Americans, they will resist to the last extremity. Brigham Young remarked repeatedly that this was the most glorious era of his faith, and that a happier day never dawned on Mormonism than that on which the advance of the troops was ordered, for the more his church was persecuted, the more it would thrive.

The Captain confirms the fact of the concentration of the population of Utah in Salt Lake Valley, by the abandonment of the remote settlements, and he estimates the firce which the Mormons can set in the field at between five and six thousand men. He was also given to understand that they intebd to recall their missionaries from the States, but not from foreign countries.

He says there is in certain quarters a dislike of the pressent authorities of the Church, but that nothing less than the presence of a large Gentule force will enable it to develop itself.

Capt. Van Vliet states that there is no powder mill, to his knowledge, in the Territory, although there is a manufactory of fire-arms.

The Capt. reports that snow fell at Fort Bridger on the 21st of September,

Sr. Bernhisel, Delegate to Congress from Uath, traveled in company with Capt. Van Vliet, on his way to Washington.

---

NEW ARMY RIFLE. -- Washington, Oct. 13. -- The Board appointed to test certain fire-arms... are of the unanimous opinion that the breech-loading rifle submitted by Gen. Burnside, of Rock Island, is best suited to military service... the new model rifle muskets are to be at once distributed to the army, particularly among the troops in Utah, Kansas, and on the Pacific.


Notes: (forthcoming)

LATE  FROM  SALT  LAKE.
_______

Destruction of a Government Train by the Mormons!
_______
The U. S. Forces in Great Difficulties!
_______
(Correspondence of the N. Y. Tribune.)

                                    Camp, 120 miles from Fort Laramie.
                                                        October 13, 1857.

During Capt. [Van] Vliet's stay in Salt Lake City last month, he overheard but one remark which induced him to believe that the declarations of the Mormons to resist the troops were not earnest. That was an observation by Brigham Young to the effect that his intention was unaltered, "unless he should get another revelation to the contrary." which he was sure that he should not.

The result has certainly justified the Prophet's confidence. No such revelations had been received by him up to October 5, on which date acts were committed under his direction which cannot fail to end in bloodshed. On that day the two regiments of infantry and the artillery and ordnance batteries were encamped on Ham's Fork, which branches from Black's Fork, which is a fork of the Green River. The two nearest supply trains were but a few miles from Green River, on the east bank, and about 30 miles from Col. Alexander's camp. The next on the road had advanced about 20 miles west from Pacific Springs, which rise at a short distance beyond the South Pass. About 11 o'clock at night these three trains were surprised and seized by parties of Mormons, their contents examined, and what was worth pillaging was stolen, and the remainder destroyed by fire. Each train consisted of 26 wagons, and belonged to the number sent out by Messrs. Russell & Waddell of Leavenworth City, contractors for the transportation of stores to the army, and for the supply of beef cattle. The teamsters made no resistance, and were unharmed. These Mormon bands were understood to be under the command of "Bill" Hickman, although it is rumored that Heber C. Kimball attends them. They are all well mounted and armed, each man being provided with a California horse, and with a rifle and from one to three revolvers. Hickman is supposed to have directed the proceeding near Pacific Springs, while a man named Locksmith [sic, Lot Smith?] commanded near Green River.

Immediately upon the receipt of the news of this attack, Col. Alexander sent Capt. Marcy of the 5th Infantry, with five companies, back to Green River. He arrived, however, only in season to take charge of the cattle of the trains, which the Mormons had left, with the polite request that the troops would fatten them over winter, when they would be in good condition for Mormon eating in the spring. Another of their jeux d'esprit was a remark to the teamsters that they "had only burned the wagons this time, but would be likely to burn the wagoners the next." Col. Alexander also sent dispatches to Brevet Col. Smith, from whose camp I am writing, and Capt. Marcy sent by another messenger a circular letter to the trains on the road advising them, for the sake of safety, to place themselves under Col. Smith's protection. Both expressmen were intercepted by Mormons, but as nothing suspicious was found on their persons, and it did not appear on what errands they were bound, they were released. The one from Col. Alexander, perceiving that it was impossible to avoid arrest, destroyed the dispatches to Col. Smith, according to his instructions, and we are ignorant of their contents. The other brought Capt. Marcy's circular letter safely through in the toe of his moccasin.

We know, however, in the absence of the official dispatches, that Capt. Marcy has rejoined Col. Alexander, and that the entire force has moved to the north along Bear River toward Soda Springs, where it will probably await the arrival of the remaining supply trains, the sutlers' trains of the 5th and 10th Infantry, and of Col. Smith's battalion. The reasons for this movement do not appear by a glance at the map, to a person unacquainted minutely with the conformation of the country and character of the climate. The direct road to Salt Lake City, passing Fort Bridger, Medicine Butte, and The Needles, which Col. Alexander has abandoned, is possibly by this time impassable to wagons or artillery on account of the weather. -- The season, which had been uncommonly favorable up to the beginning of October, has resumed its natural severity. Ice has formed in our buckets every morning but one since we left Fort Laramie. The northern slopes of the mountains are completely whitened with a covering that will not melt till 1858, and even the southern slopes are powdered scantily with snow, of which there was a fall on Saturday night that chilled our road on Sunday and Monday, and has muddied it to-day. The Mormons have probably burned the grass along that entire route, and obstructed the defiles in which it abounds, in such a manner that only artillery could clear them. But if the army concentrates at Soda Springs, it will have before it a road along a valley, open, it is said, even at midwinter, direct to Salt Lake City. I know of no chart which exhibits all the lines of a road on which these movements will be made, and, indeed, I am unable to gather from our guides such information as to trace them accurately on Capt. Stansbury's map, which is the largest chart of this country that I possess, but I believe them to be substantially these: The direct route from California to the States crosses the Wahsatch mountains far to the north of Salt Lake City, and continues almost due east to its junction with the main road to that city which passes Fort Bridger, and then runs on through the South Pass, dividing, however, near Ham's Fork, into three branches, which cross Green River and unite beyond the Big Sandy. From one or the other of these branches a road leads up into Oregon, toward Fort Hall, passing Soda Springs, from which, at the Springs, there is a cut-off into a road direct from Fort Hall to Salt Lake City. It is over these latter roads and the cut-off that Col. Alexander's march will be directed.

The Mormons who intercepted the expressmen told them that they had a force of 700 men scattered along through the mountains as far east as the Devil's Gate, through which the Sweetwater flows, about 200 miles from Fort Laramie, and near which is a dismantled Mormon mail station, at a fire from some of whose logs we warmed our feet not a week ago. But this must be a gross exaggeration. Neither of the parties which burned the trains exceeded 100 in number, and it is difficult to conceive how a force of even that strength could have gained the rear of the army unobserved. It is a fact, however, that ever since the Mormons settled on Salt lake, they have been assiduous in collecting information concerning the topography of the country, and many of their leaders understand it as thoroughly as the most experienced mountain guide. The employment of a great part of their young men in herding cattle has made them acquainted with every little stream and kanyon, and inured them to the saddle. It is these young men, these almost solely, who constitute the element of the Mormon military force from which there is danger to be apprehended. They possess the ability, if they have the will, to carry on an annoying guerrilla warfare, sweeping down from mountain passes upon single travelers and unprotected trains.

I am unable to make an estimate of the amount of stores destroyed by them in their foray of October 5. The original amount intended for the Utah expedition was a eight months' supply for 2,500 men, and each train assigned a proportion of all the articles to be transported, including even ordnance stores. Whether different arrangements were made when it was thought necessary to leave the 2d Dragoons with Gov. Walker in Kansas, I am not aware. At any rate, it is the general impression that the loss of so great a quantity of provisions as the 72 wagons must have contained, would necessitate a movement toward Salt Lake Valley, were not such a movement on other accounts a consequence of their destruction. The season will forbid the transmission of any further supplies or troops from the East than are now already far on their way. Whether Col. Sumner's command has returned from its pursuit of the Cheyennes to the Arkansas; whether Col. Cook is marching his dragoons toward us to fill out so far as is now possible the programme of the army of Utah, which was disturbed by Gov. Walker's schemes in Kansas; or whether Gen. Harney, Col. Johnson, Gov. Cumming, or any of the new territorial officials are on their way west, we are not informed; for the most recent advices we have received from the East extend no later than September 1. Ignorant as we are of what may have occurred there during the last forty days, it is impossible for us to fix the responsibility for the delay, so accurately as yourselves, upon those on whom it belongs; but some one is certainly to blame for the fact that of the 2,500 men that were originally destined to the expedition, hardly 1,400 are now available, and for the other fact that of all the newly-appointed territorial officials, only one, to my knowledge (Chief Justice Eckles), is anywhere near his post or duty. Mr. Morrell, the Postmaster at Salt Lake City, who was appointed by President Pierce last year, but whose commission was stolen from the mail, is also an exception. He is encamped near the South Pass, and will place his wagons under Col. Smith's protection tomorrow.

This news, of the actual rising of the Mormons in arms, cannot surprise you more than it does those on the scene of action. the presence of Dr. Bernhisel with Capt. Van Vliet, on his journey to the States, seemed of itself an offset to all the threatening messages of which the latter was the bearer. It seemed incredible that the Mormons should have the assurance to send a delegate to Washington to uphold them in Congress, when they were in actual armed rebellion. That they have been excited to a forcible outbreak only by the grossest misrepresentations, I cannot doubt. As an instance of these, I may specify one which is by no means the most absurd. When the general orders from the headquarters of the army for Utah for the establishment of three new posts in the Territory reached Salt Lake City, the circumstance that they were to be "double ration posts" excited the utmost indignation. Supposing that it meant all the garrisons as well as the commanding officers were to draw double rations, laughable as that may appear, it is a fact that they believed that the extra ration was to be furnished to each soldier, to enable him to marry and support a wife, whom, of course, he would seduce from among them. Capt. Van Vliet found this illusion universally prevalent.

In consideration of the journey of Dr. Bernhisel to Washington, while affairs are in such a condition among his constituency, I feel bound to send you the following information concerning the mode of his election, for the accuracy of which I do not vouch, for it is not of my personal knowledge, but for which I send you privately my authority. It has been stated to me that on the Sunday before the day fixed by law for the election, Brigham Young rose in the Bowery, where an audience of several thousands were collected, and spoke substantially to this effect:

"Brethren, to-morrow, you know, is the day to vote for Delegate to Congress, so the law says. But I don't see why to-day isn't just as holy, and why we shouldn't take a vote to-day. Brother Bernhisel, brethren, has done well enough in Congress, though nobody's of much use there, and if it's worth while to send anybody to Washington, I guess we might as well send him back; if he can't do us any good, he won't do us any harm. So all of you that are in favor of sending Brother Bernhisel back, will please rise."

Accordingly the whole audience rose. The next day, at the election, but a few votes were cast, and those all for Dr. Bernhisel, it being felt useless to oppose him, although he is said to be very unpopular in Salt Lake City. If I do Dr. Bernhisel any wrong by this narrative, I am sure you will be willing to correct any thing which he will prove to be inaccurate.

As another item, which I have neglected to insert in its proper connection, it is reported that the Mormons have taken prisoners two men belonging to Dr. MaGraw's party, who were sent on business toward Salt Lake City.

---

The St. Louis Republican of November 11th says:

"Highly important intelligence has just been received at Fort Leavenworth, by express from Fort Laramie, with advices of October 22d. Lieut. Col. Cooke's command of 2d Dragoons were four miles this side, and had encountered a snow storm five days previously. Col. Albert S. Johnson was last heard from two hundred and thirty miles beyond Fort Laramie, and snow was seven inches deep one hundred miles this side of where the express left him. Owing to the slim supply of corn, and entire absence of grass, the teams of the entire command and the horses of the 2d Dragoons were failing rapidly.

"News had reached Laramie that the Mormons had burnt three government trains (seventy-five wagons) near Green river, ninety miles behind Col. Alexander's command (10th Infantry), which constituted the van-guard of the army. It was rumored that the 10th and 5th Infantry and the Batteries of Artillery would go over and take possession of a Mormon village on Bear river for winter quarters. It is said that the Dragoons had a month's supply of corn, at half allowance, and not a particle of grass. With snow on the ground at that, it seems like madness for them to proceed beyond Laramie -- certainly such a step could only be justified in view of the prospect of actual hostilities this winter, of which no one at this distance can judge.

"There was probably never before any portion of our army subjected to such privations and to whom the future presents such a gloomy picture as is the case at present with the 'Army for Utah.' And it can be said, without disparagement to others, that no portion of our army could have been better selected to battle with the hardships of a campaign, which more than all others proves the soldier, than the 'Army for Utah.' The commander, Col. Albert S. Johnson, of the 2d Cavalry, stands among the first in ability in the army, with the indefatigable Maj. Fitzjohn Porter at his elbow. Under his command and emulating him in the patriotic zeal of warriors, are the respective commanders of the 10th Infantry, Col. Alexander, and the 5th Infantry, Lieut. Col. Waite, while the trying duty -- the almost hopeless task of conducting the "rear guard" (the six companies of 2d Dragoons) through a snowy path to its distant goal -- rests with Lieut. Col. Cooke. No one familiar with the operations of our army for the last twenty years will fear that any of these officers will prove recreant to the important trusts confided to them. We may rest assured that if, upon Col. Johnson's arrival on the verge of the Salt lake Valley. circumstances urge the propriety of immediate action, offensively, toward the Mormons, it will be done with a bold and decisive hand. Certainly no act is better calculated to hasten the inevitable doom of Mormonism than this attempt, on their part, to destroy the army supplies. Nothing should shield them from the just retribution of an outraged government.

"We doubt if Col. Johnson will be able, when his whole force is concentrated, to muster over one thousand men for duty. Such an army, so far from the base line, is too small to cope long with vigorous resistance."


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Mormons.

(under construction)

---

NEW ARMY RIFLE. -- ...


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Mormons.

(under construction)

---

NEW ARMY RIFLE. -- ...


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Mormons.

(under construction)

---

NEW ARMY RIFLE. -- ...


Notes: (forthcoming)

MORMON NEWS. -- We clip the following from the Portland Times of the 16th inst. It is [----- ------- ------ -----] great fear that it may prove true:

"The rumor has reached here that Col. Steptoe at Walla Ealla has received news by an Indian Express dispatch of Lawyer (an Indian chief) from Utah to the import that Col. Johnson and the Mormons had a battle -- that the troops were at first repulsed but rallied and finally came off victors. -- that the Mormons had offered the Indians arms and ammunition to engage in the war, and that the Indians in the vicinity of Walla Walla had notified all the white settlers, French and American, to leave the country in five days, and that some of the settlers had in consequence gone 'into post.' We give the rumor for what it may be worth, without, however, entertaining much confidence in it ourself."


Notes: (forthcoming)

Mormon News

We have no very late interesting news from Utah. The latest is by way of San Bernardino, Cal. A party from Salt Lake under Col. Amassa Lyman, were encamped at the crossing of the Mohave, and were procuring provisions, clothing, and munitions of war. It is reported that about 100 wagons are encamped at the Mohave, and a great number have moved out on the road. It is reported that there is great suffering in the camp, but this is doubted, as there has been at least fifty marriages in a few days.

The camp on the Mohave is not without the comforts of life, for the married ladies continue to add to the population.

We make the following extract from the Alta California of the 25th ult:

"Several gentlemen arriving from Salt lake, say that the Atkins, John, Tom and anotehr brother, who were taken prisoners and robbed, some weeks [ago]. by the Saints, have been killed, while escaping out of the country. It is said that the three brothers and another person received passports from Brigham Young to return to California. They were undisturbed in their retreat until the first night this side of Cedar City, when their camp was attacked by Indians, and two of them killed. The other two returned to Cedar City, and claimed protection, but were shot down in the streets in daylight by the people. One of the gentlemen who came through says he saw this last outrage.

From a private letter, dated Great Salt Lake City, December 6, 1857, to a friend, I am permitted to send you the following extract:

The soldiers are at Fort Bridger, and it is supposed they will stay there all winter. Their animals have given out and can't come any farther. They have shot thorty or forty rounds at our boys several times, but have never drawn blood. Two or three times they have shot through their clothes. -- Our boys are all called home now. The people are in high spirits, and hopes there will be no fighting to do, but that they will go off and let us alone.

Business is [standing still?], but provisions are plenty. [Groceries?] are very scarce."

---

Correspondence of the Sentinel.

Friend T. Vault: -- In this communication I propose to inquire some of teh reasons why it is that the General Government, and General Scott at teh ehad of teh War Department, refuse to recommend the raising of Volunteers from Oregon and California. -- Have we not here as good men as any on the Atlantic side? I think on this point there can be no doubt. Are not our miners as ready to volunteer as other men! ... How then is it that volunteers cannot be sent from California with as good a prospect of success as from the Atlantic States? Los Angeles possesses advantages over any other place, for the following reasons: First, it is but little over four hundred miles from ship navigation to the Southern Mormon settlements. This route is passable furing the entire year. The obstructionsd to this route are far less, there being no large rivers to cross and no rugged mountain chains intervening... Why then, I ask, is it that we are denied the opportunity of furnishing our share of men and supplies in subduing this Mormon rebellion?
                                 Respectfully yours,     H.

---

==> The Los Angeles Star of the 30th January says: "A rumor has been current in town for some time, in which we did not a first give credence, the two young men, Thomas and John, men formerly of this neighborhood, [but] who had been confined in Salt Lake City, were murdered on their way to California. The procured guides and interpreters, but when about two day's journey west of Ogden City they were set upon by Indians, and the whole four killed. The interpreters were not molested. We hope his may prove untrue. The Aiken boys were well known in this city and were much respected. Since they left for San Francisco, we had previously [repeatedly?] heard of their death. This time it comes to us on the authority of a man who had the narrative from the interpreters."


Notes: (forthcoming)

Miscellaneous.

... General Scott is now in Washington, planning the Spring campaign against the Mormons...

---

VOLUNTEERS FOR SALT LAKE. -- We call attention to the notice of Mr. O. Barrett, in another column [Feb. 6th issue]. All who feel disposed to volunteer in Captain Barrett's Company, will do well to be early in attendance on Monday evening next, at McCully's Theatre.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Later from Salt Lake.

By way of Los Angeles, we have files of the Deseret News to the 7th September. The Mormon papers contain no [mention] of the movements of the troops [----- -----], and it is only by the speeches of the elders that we can gather [that a] hostile army is upon their frontier....

A memorial, signed by the Councillors, Representatives, officers of the Council and officers of the House, of the Utah Legislature, has been transmitted to the Congress of the United States. The memorial is written in that peculiar equivocal style characteristic of Mormon public papers, and may mean a great deal or nothing, according to the exigency of the times and humor of the writers. It recites the alleged wrongs of the Saints, and calls upon the President to restore to the Mormons their lost property in [Missouri and to punish] the murderers of [their prophet?] Joseph Smith, and the assassins of Parley P. Pratt... -- San Francisco Bulletin.

---

MILITARY OPERATIONS IN UTAH. -- The Washington correspondent of the S. F. Bulletin says: Gen. Scott has been here, and after consulting fully with the President, has matured his plans (so far as could be done before some legislation ny Congress shall have been accomplished,) for the spring campaign against the Mormons. He consurs with Secretary Floyd in the opinion that the campaign should be conducted altogether with regular [forces?], or as nearly so as possible, and for [this] reason he is especially desirous that Congress should act at once upon an appropriation to add four or five [new] regiments to the regular. [The] ultimate decision as to the chief [military?] operations next spring, will be determined by the decision of Congress [upon] that proposition. If the regular army is increased, operations will be [------] conducted from this side; while [if] volunteers are authorized instead, [they] will be raised on the Pacific shore, [and] the chief base of operations, will consequently be on that coast.

I see no prospect of early [un--------- ---able] action by Congress on the proposition... The War Department asserts that volunteers will cost much more than regulars, to raise, equip, etc. In answer, it is averred that when raised they are far more effective, and that two regiments of hardy adventurous Californians will quite settle the Utah difficulty...


Notes: (forthcoming)

MORMONS WANT TO LEAVE. -- Dr. Bernhisel, the delegate from Utah, is said to have made overtures to the President signifying the willingness of the Mormons to leave Utah and take up their residence in some island outside the jurisdiction of the United States, provided the givernment [first?] give a fair price for the improvements in Salt Lake City. Mr. B. requested a committee to be appointed to [arrange?] details.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Later from Salt Lake
_______

The Los Angeles Star, of March [6th], publishes the following intelligence from Salt Lake: --

The mail from Salt Lake City has not yet arrived here, although it was reported at San Bernardino in the early part of the week. We do not expect, however, to hear anything from the army by the Salt Lake paper.

By the arrival in this city on Monday, of Messrs. Ackermann and Morgan, formerly teamsters in the employ of C. A. Perry & Co., sutlers for the 10th regiment, we have news from that city to the 5th of Feb. These gentlemen arrived at the army headquarters, at Fort Bridger, on the 19th November, and leaving the [trails?], they determined to come to California; but seeing that they could not do so, direct, they persevered in their determination, and endured great privations and hardships. On the 24th December, they reached Great Salt Lake City, where they remained to the 6th February, during which time they were treated in a kind and hospitable manner. -- They had several interviews with Brigham Young, of whom they speak very favorably.

They state that about the 10th January an order was issued by the church, that the people should have boxes made to contain about 150 pounds, to pack their grain in them and bring them to the elders, who would take charge of them and "cache" them in the mountains.

Another order was issued, that a company of 1000 men should hold themselves in readiness to go into the mountains on the 17th February, and cut off supplies coming to the army.

In the meantime, forty wagons loaded with supplies had reached Col. Johnson's command from Fort Laramie. The army was in good health, had plenty of provisions and good tents, and was engaged in rebuilding Fort Bridger.

The authorities of Salt Lake are represented as being still inclined for war. -- Measures are being concerted for defeating the U. S. troops, or, all events, keeping them outside the city till the crops are gathered and secured. This can easily be done, unless force is sent from this side.

There was a rumor current in town for the past two or three days, to the effect that a fight had taken place between the Mormons and the troops, in which the latter were defeated. We do not think the report worthy of credit.

Messrs. Ackermann and Morgan received the following passport from Brigham Young, when about to leave SDalt Lake City. The Governor wrote his name on a sheet of paper, which was handed to a clerk, who wrote the form of passport over the signature. -- Thus the passports bear Brigham's signature, although he does not sign them:

UTAH  TERRITORY.

To all whom these presents shall come. --
  Greeting:

Ledowick M. Morgan and Samuel A. Ackermann are hereby permitted to pass freely and safely through the Territory, on their way to California.

Given under my hands, at Great Salt Lake City, U. T., the 5th day of February, 1858.     BRIGHAM YOUNG.

Messrs. Ackermann and Morgan came with the mail rider from Salt Lake City, and encountered no obstacles of any kind on the way. On passing Mountain Meadows, they saw the bones of the murdered emigrants whitening on the plains. A few of the bodies had been buried, but were tore up again by the wild beasts. They met the express party conveying Col. Kane to Salt Lake, but the Gentiles did not know he was in the wagon, as he was covered up in blankets till they had [passed some] three days.

Since the foregoing was written, Mr. Taft has brought the mail from San Bernardino, anticipating the regular delivery at this point, some three or four days. We have [not received] our file of the Deseret News, nor has a copy of it been received in town. But one or two letters were brought by the mail.

---

==> There is a small company of Mormons encamped in Douglas county, en route for Salt Lake. "Well, they will get there -- over the left."

---

RUMOR. -- It is reported that the Mormons have taken Fort Bridger and killed several hundred U. S. troopds, but we have no reliable authority for the rumor, and do not credit it as true, yet it is possible that an encounter between the U. S. troops and the Mormons has taken place; for if the Mormons ever do intend to give battle, it will be before the reinforcements arrive in the spring.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Washington Correspondence.
_______

Defeat of the Army Bill -- All [available] Troops to be sent to Utah...

                              WASHINGTON, March 2, 1858.

I believe I stated to you in my previous letters that I was fearful the Army bill would be defeated in the Senate. This has been done...

Congress acts so inconceivably slow, and the exigencies of the existing Mormon war requiring that troops should now be on the march to Utah, I understand the Secretary of War has decided not to wait any longer on the action of Congress, and he will therefore give immediate orders to withdraw all the troops that can possibly be spared from the Atlantic seaboard, who will be ordered to concentrate at Fort Leavenworth, preparatory to their joining the troops now in Utah under command of Col. Johnson, so as to be prepared to commence operations against the Mormons the moment spring opens. had the army been increased in the manner proposed by the Secretary of War, it was his intention to have sent Gen'l. Scott to the Pacific coast to have carried on from that side a concerted movement against the Mormons, with the troops under Col. Johnson; but I have learned from good authority that such a movement has been abandoned, and it is not probable that any troops will be despatched from the Pacific side....


Notes: (forthcoming)

LATER FROM SALT LAKE. -- By a private letter we have advices from Salt Lake to March 14th, eleven days later than by mail. At that time everything was quiet in Salt Lake City. The troops still occupied Fort Bridger, and the Mormons were busily engaged putting in their crops, with the prospect of a very favorable season. The Saints had been advised by their Elders to sow no more land than they could conveniently reap at short notice, and more persons had given their attention to farming, taking up portions of the land owned by farmers, than ever before. The Mormons declare themselves ready for any emergency, and feel satisfied of their capacity to prevent the entrance of the forces under Col. Johnson. They depend greatly on the measures taken to render the various passes impregnable, and feel confident in being able to gather their crops and cache their resources before a detour could be made by way of the South Pass, or before Col. Johnson could be reinforced by troops enough to place his entrance into Great Salt Lake City beyond a doubt. The intelligence brought by the previous mail carrier, to the effect that a large body of disaffected Mormons had been permitted to leave Deseret, and were on their way to California, is contradicted. The Mormons are represented as being greatly in want of many of the comforts and even necessities of life, and clothing is extremely scarce. Powder, arms of all descriptions, and other munitions of war are in great demand. -- S. F. Herald.


Notes: (forthcoming)

LATEST FROM UTAH. -- St. Louis, April 5. -- The Utah mail, which left Camp Scott March 1st, has arrived. -- The troops continued in fine health, and were awaiting the determination of their commander to proceed to Salt Lake. Col. Johnson had a refular effective force of 1,000 men, and 1,000 animals in good condition, and the general impression was that he would wait for reinforcements before making his attack.

Communication with Salt Lake was entirely prohibited, and little or nothing was known of the intentions or preparations of the Mormons to resist the entrance of the troops. Col. Johnson's dispatches will be forwarded immediately to Washington.

---

VOLUNTEERS FOR UTAH. -- General Kinny, Adjutant General of Illinois, has addressed a not to the Secretary of War, tendering the government one fo more regiments of mounted volunteers for Utah. Another company for Utah has been organized in Frankfort, Ky.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Close of the Mormon War.

By the arrival of teh stage last evening we were placed in possession of the Sacramento Union of the 10th inst., containing important news from Salt lake.

On the 1st of April Col. Johnson sent a courier to Salt lake informing Brigham that he should take up his line of march immediately for that city. Upon receiving the news, Brigham gave orders for a carriage to be sent to Fort Bridger to convey Gov. Cumming to Salt lake, at the same time giving orders to the Saints to evacuate the Holy City. This caused considerable dissatisfaction among the Saints, but they were disposing of their effects as best they could, and leaving, as it is reported, to rendezvous in Iron county, preparatory to going South.

Thus ends the Mormon war. After causing Uncle Sam to expend several millions, the Mormons have concluded to emigrate South and try their hand in some other locality.

---

UTAH. -- News received by way of New York indicates that the Mormons have been exercting extensive fortifications to the northward of their present city -- indicating that they expect to do hard fighting during the present Spring and coming Summer. In the meantime Col. Johnson is being reinforced and fully supplied with munitions of war.

The [purposes] of the Administration are still scrupulously concealed. It is supposed by a very intelligent officer of the U. S. A. with whom we have conversed, that the mystery which now shrouds the fate of Utah will soon be solved -- perhaps ere this -- by a forward movement of Col. Johnson. Should active war be precipitated much of the military force on the Pacific coast would undoubtedly be ordered to repair to Utah and take part in the conflict. -- Shasta Republican.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Further News from Salt Lake.

                            SAN FRANCISCO, May 10. '58.

By the arrival of the Seantor, this afternoon, important news has come to hand from Salt Lake, to the effect that the Mormons have abandoned the city to the U. S. Army. The Los Angeles Vineyard of May 8, says:

"The U. S. Marshall arrived at Los Angeles on the 3d of May. The Mormons have left Salt Lake City. Gov. Cumming, in company with Col. Kane, arrived from Camp Scott about the 4th April. Brigham Young was at Provo, fifty miles this side of Salt Lake City. A grand Council was to be held at Provo on the 6th of April, that being the anniversary of the commencement of Mormon worship in 1830. Captain Hunt writes that at the Council the future policy and plans of the Saints will be determined. Amasa Lyman, one of the original purchasers of San Bernardino, with about three hundred men, divided into small parties, left about the 1st of April, on a tour of exploration towards and into the Apache country. The Deseret News was suspended. The last number was issued on the 7th April, on a reduced sheet. It makes no mention whatever of any movement or change. Almost daily, sibce the 20th of April, Mormons, formerly residents of San Bernardino, arrive at that place, and are desirous of purchasing the places they sold under the excitement of the gathering together of the Saints at their Mount Zion."

Letters have been received at Los Angeles, of the date of April 3d, from Salt Lake City, which state that the people of that city, and all the settlements north of it, are commanded to immediately abandon and burn their dwellings, and move south to Provo, so that Col. Johnson may establish a military post there. The same writer says that Gov. Cumming was expected to arrive on the following day in company with Col. Kane, and that it was supposed that a compromise had been effected, so that they would not be obligated to leave the valley. Other letters have been received at Los Angeles, which intimate that the houses are being destroyed, but we are inclined to soubt the correctness of these assertions. Great dissatisfaction has manifested itself among the Mormons, and they have split into numerous factions, each with its parties and leaders.

The Star, of May 8th, contains extracts from various letters received at Los Angeles from Salt Lake, confirming the above news. A letter to a gentleman of Los Angeles, dated Farmington City, sixteen miles north of Salt Lake City, April 4th says: "We are now ordered to move south of Provo, from the settlements north of Salt Lake City, and that city is also to be vacated and burnt down immediately, in order that Col. Johnson and his men may come in and fulfill the orders of the Government in stablishing a military post there. There is a regular break up, and it is going to be rather hard with all. The word generally is, that they intend to locate in San Pete Valley. Gov. Cumming and Colonel Kane are expected in from the soldiers' camp to-day, under an escort of our boys, and I anticipate that some compromise will be made, in order that all shall not have to go away." -- Union.


Notes: (forthcoming)

LATER FROM SALT LAKE. -- The Los Angeles Vineyard, of the 22d inst. says that Mr. John Hunt, son of Capt. Jeff Hunt, arrived at San Bernardino, on Thursday, 12 days from Salt Lake, brings intelligence that Gov. Cummings had entered the city, and orders had been sent to the soldiers not to advance from Fort Bridger.

It is reported that high words passed between Gov. Cummings and Col. Johnson; the latter declaring that his orders directed him to take up his quarters in the city, and the firmer insisting that the Col. should not advance. The Col. finally acquiesced and remained behind. There were some private dispatches to Mr. Hanks, but nothing further has transpired.


Notes: (forthcoming)

EMIGRATION FROM SALT LAKE. -- Bennett & Tyler, traders on the Humboldt, says the Sacramento Mecrury, reports that five Pah Ute Indians had arrived from Salt Lake, having went there last fall with some Mormon families, and they report some families on their way to Carson Valley; the number they do not know, but say over one hundred wagons.

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LATER FROM SALT LAKE. -- By the arrival of the Senator on the 13th from the Southern Coast, later intelligence has been received from Salt Lake, which is not of a very definite character. It appears, however, that the Mormons were to remain north of Provo, with, perhaps, a few [exceptions]. Col. kane's mission is reported to have been completely successful. The report of his appointment as Commander-in-Chief is of very doubtful authenticity. It seems that quite a mumber of Mormons have signified to Brigham that they are willing to recognize Governor Cummings as Governor, while the great mass remain fast to their first love. Brother Amasa Lyman had returned from the Colorado, unable to find a resting place for the Saints.

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ARMY MOVEMENTS. -- The Levenworth correspondent of the St. Louis Republican states that teh peace commissioners, Messrs. McCullough and Powell. left Utah on the 26th April, with an escort of six men...

An order from the War Department directs the movement at once of teh sixth regiment of infantry, and the company of sappers and miners, towards Utah. This command is to take the Bridger Pass route; and are to construct a wagon road from the Pass to Camp Scott, the present headquarters of Col. Johnson. Lieut Francis T. Bryan, topographical engineer, accompanies the command, he having passed over the route. -- Globe, May 1.


Notes: (forthcoming)

The New York Tribune has the following in relation to Col. Kane, the gentleman whose movements, in connexion with the Mormons, has been the subject of such frequent comment: -- "When the full truth is known, we believe it will be found that great credit is due to Col. Thomas L. Kane for this auspicious termination of the Mormon broll. He went out to Utah with the consent, indeed, of the President, but prompted by his own generous heart, animated by an earnest desire to prevent a needless and therefore culpable, effusion of human blood. By his past services to, and experience with, the Mormons, he had won the confidence of their leaders, while his knowledge of the purposes and preparations of the Government enabled him to convince those leaders that resistance on their part was hopeless. We wish he had gone to Utah some months earlier: but his bold and self-sacrificing mission has doubtless been undertaken in season to save millions to the Treasury and avert from our nation the stain of a fruitless slaughter of thousands and the devestation of their homes. 'Blessed are the peacemakers.'"

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Washington Correspondence.

                                                Washington, May 12, '58.

... Important news has been received by telegraph from Utah and generally believed, that the Mormons have backed down and that large numbers are emigrating from Salt Lake City, and that there is but little [reason] to doubt the fact that Gov. Cummings has entered the city and entered upon his duties as Governor, with the consent and at the request of Brigham Young. Even if this be true, the Government intends keeping a large military force in Salt Lake City a depot [for] stores and equipments, and will [soon] open the communication between Levenworth and the City. This keeping open of communication and the facilities afforded to emigrants both for travel and a sure supply of provisions, as well as protection will be of immense benefit...


Notes: (forthcoming)

LATE  FROM  THE  STATES.

... The Mormon war has been ended -- still the reports from there are very contradictory. One day we learn that the Mormons are leaving Utah; the next day that they are not. One thing is certain, they do not intend to molest our troops. Brigham Young has surrendered to Governor Cumming the seals of the Territory...


Notes: (forthcoming)