From the Columbia N. Y. Republican.

THE  INDIANS.

The following is an extract from an order of the President, through the Secretary of War, to Generals Carroll and Coffee, dated May 30, 1830:

"A crisis in our Indian affairs has arrived. Strong indications are seen of this in the circumstance of the Legislatures of Georgia and Alabama extending their laws over the Indians within their respective limits. These acts, it is reasonable to presume, will be followed by other States interested in those portions of their soil, now in the occupancy of the Indians. In the right to exercise such jurisdiction, the Executive of the United States fully concurs; and this has been officially announced to the Cherokee Indians. -- The President is of opinion, that the only mode left for the Indians to escape the effects of the enactments, and consequences YET MORE DESTRUCTIVE, which are consequent on their continguity with the whites, is to emigrate.

"The President views the Indians as the children of the Government. He sees what is best for them; and that a perserverance in their refusal to fly the dangers that surround them, must result in their misery and final destruction."

---

A Prudent Impostor. -- The famous Jemima Wilkenson, who, with a number of her followers, had fixed her residence at the head of Seneca Lake, announced to them, that on a certain day she would walk on the water. -- Hundreds collected on the shore of the lake, and she thus addressed them -- "My dear friends, it will be of no use for me to attempt this miracle, unless you have faith. Say, do you verily believe that I can perform it?" "Certainly, certainly," answered a hundred voices. -- "Very well," replied the prudent impostor, "if you believe it, that is enough, there is no need of my doing it, and we will go quietly to our houses."


Note: The publication of President Andrew Jackson's "order to Generals Carroll and Coffee" must have sent chills through numerous members of the southern Indian tribes. Here the President of the United States makes it clear that he will do nothing to save those people from their "final destruction," should they persist in occupying their ancestral homelands. Jackson's Indian Removal plan had not yet passed Congress at this date, but it seemed inevitable that the vast majority of Indians then living within the borders of the U. S. A. were condemned to relocate west of the Missouri River. Some tribes had already signed treaties to this effect and had moved west or were preparing for such a move. The Book of Mormon was published prior to Jackson's final decision in this important matter, and it was uncertain at the time of its publication whether or not the Indian Removal scheme would actually be carried out. Thus, it is unlikely that the first Mormon "missionaries to the Lamanites" made plans to journey west of the Missouri, to convert the Indians to the new faith, until at least the summer of 1830. Given the promises made to the "remnant of Jacob" in the Book of Mormon, the latter day religion could not well abide witnessing the "final destruction" of the Indians, without quickly making some conversion efforts among the threatened tribes. So it was that the Mormon leadership began to formulate plans to send Oliver Cowdery and three other missionaries westward, before the end of 1830.

A young man who taught school in Palmyra, Wayne county, New York, was lately hoaxed by a traveller who told him of a rich old man in Ohio, who had a daughter, half Indian, and that he would give a barrel of dollars to any white man who would marry her. He wrote a letter to the old gentleman, which was answered by a young man in the secret, and the schoolmaster visited Ohio, was introduced to an elderly man, and after midnight informed of the joke which sent him home with a heavy heart.


Note 1: Unfortunately this short news report does not provide sufficient information whereby to identify the "young man who taught school" in New York. Evidently the young "schoolmaster" visited Ohio late in 1830 or early the next year and news of his experience reached the eastern newspapers during the spring of 1831. No New York papers carrying this news item have yet been discovered.

Note 2: Oliver Cowdery, the early Mormon leader, passed through Ohio during October and November of 1830, on his way to western Missouri. Although Cowdery did not teach school in "Palmyra, Wayne county," he is known to have taught in the adjacent town of Manchester, in Ontario county -- probably during 1827-28, and certainly at the beginning of the 1828-29 school term. Thus, Oliver Cowdery was a young schoolmaster, from the Palmyra area, who journeyed to Ohio, not long before this news item saw print. Cowdery is not known to have gone "home" to New York after his initial visit to Ohio, nor had he much reason to suffer from a "heavy heart," other than from the fact that he failed in his mission to convert western Indians to Mormonism.

Note 3: The exact date is uncertain, when traveling Mormon missionaries were first advised by Joseph Smith, Jr. to take wives among the western Indians. According to W. W. Phelps, it was on July 7, 1831 that Joseph Smith, Jr. counseled his elders, "that in time, ye should take unto you wives of the Lamanites." Ezra Booth also dates this prophetic counsel, to "form a matrimonial alliance with the Natives," to the year 1831, but it is possible that Oliver Cowdery and his missionary companions departed New York, in the fall of 1830, with the hope of establishing marital connections with certain western tribes. Their entering into such inter-racial relationships might have especially helped the first Mormon missionaries to "gain a residence in the Indian territory" and thus easily proselytize among the Indians who then residing west of the Missouri.

Note 4: According to historian D. Michael Quinn, in his The Mormon Hierarchy: Origins of Power, Oliver Cowdery engaged in what must have been "sexual transgression," as he and his missionary companions were passing through Ohio in the final weeks of 1830. In the published version of the LDS "Far West Record," editors Donald Q. Cannon and Lyndon W. Cook reprint the "Minutes of a conference held in Zion, May 26, 1832" in which Oliver Cowdery was accused of "a certain transgression... committed in the fall of 1830 in the Township of Mayfield, Cuyahoga County State of Ohio." The editors assume that this "transgression" by Oliver, "consisted of proposing marriage to a young woman in Ohio, after having entered into an engagement to Marry Elizabeth Ann Whitmer in New York." However, Cannon and Cook offer no compelling documentation leading to this particular conclusion. They cite Howe's 1834 book, which reprints a statement made in 1831 by Ezra Booth: "As it relates to the purity of the heart of 'that little man' [Cowdery] ... who enters into a matrimonial contract with a young lady, and obtains the consent of her parents; but as soon as his back is turned upon her, he violates his engagements, and prostitutes his honor by becoming the gallant of another, and resolved in his heart, and expresses resolutions to marry her." There is nothing in the Ezra Booth letter to indicate that Oliver Cowdery was at that time engaged to "Marry Elizabeth Ann Whitmer," or that he had obtained her parents' permission for their future marriage. Booth traveled home from Missouri during the summer of 1831, and by that time his companions, F. G. Williams and Peter Whitmer, Jr., knew the secret of Cowdery's "transgression," of some 8 months earlier. But the entry in the Far West Record says that "last year" (1830) "brother OIiver made his confession to the individuals injured & received their forgiveness." This must have occurred prior to the departure of Peter Whitmer and Oliver Cowdery from Kirtland (late Nov. 30), but Whitmer left on the journey with Cowdery unaware of any such "transgression." This evidently means that Peter Whitmer, Jr., the sole representative of the Whitmer family in Ohio at the time, was not among the injured individuals apologized to. At the time Cowdery was not in a position to communicate with the Whitmer family and receive "their forgiveness," unless he made his confession to the one representative of the family then in Ohio. Thus, it seems unlikely that any part of the Whitmer family was among the "individuals injured."

Note 5: As to the corespondent in Oliver's episode of "transgression" in Ohio, one likely candidate might be Sister Betsy Covert (1813-1876) the daughter of James Covert and Martha Judd, of Mayfield, Ohio. It appears that Betsy first heard about Mormonism when the "Lamanite missionaries" (i.e., Oliver Cowdery, Peter Whitmer Jr., Parley P. Pratt, and Ziba Peterson) visited the Kirtland-Mentor-Mayfield area in November 1830. She may have joined the church in Mayfield at that time. Prior to March 1832, Betsy emigrated to Jackson Co., Missouri where she eventually was married to Elder Joseph Knight, Jr.

From the N. Y. Courier.

Trouble among the Anti-Masons -- Persecuting each other, &c., &c. -- The charge of Masonic abductions and persecutions which has kept political anti-masonry alive, & made this great State the scene of excitement, asperity, and ill will beyond measure, is now coming home to the right source. The following shows that the Anti-masons have arrested and imprisoned upon a pretence of debt, one of their most active and talented Editors, W. W. Phelps, of the Ontario Phoenix. It seems that Mr. Phelps took a trip to Palmyra from a curiosity to compare "the Book of Mormon," a new discovery, with the Bible, and while there was arrested by certain persons living in Canandaigua & thrown into jail, where he must remain thirty days, leaving a sick family at home. This is something like the original arrest of Morgan for a small debt, at Canandaigua. But let us hear what he says, which is curious.

"Is this one of the principles of anti-masonry? If it is, save me from its ransacking scourge, for it is cruel as the grave parting man and wife, and vaunting in the dregs of Imprisonment for Debt!

"Three years have I labored for the public good, and three times have I led the freemen of Old Ontario to Victory. I have always meant good, and have had the name of so doing -- then for what act have I been cast into prison? Let public opinion declare. I have risked all and spent all in the cause of anti-masonry -- my just dues are somewhat more than my debts: -- therefore, if those concerned, and who have had the benefit of my services, will take the whole, and square all, by giving me $150, which is only $50 a year for three year's hard labor, they are welcome to it; otherwise I shall send a fire brand abroad, which may light an unquenchable flame! I shall not be severed from the Ontario Phoenix by Lord ____, for nothing, nor go into it again disgraced. The people of Ontario will not suffer "Church and State" to mix and fat federalism. They will glory in seeing what has been divided in April, scattered in November, unless I receive the meed of my merit.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Mormonites. -- The fanatical and deluded beings, who are settling en masse, in the northern part of this state, it would appear, from the notices taken of them by the editors in the neighborhood of their new settlement, are still increasing in number; thirty or forty families from the state of New York, & others from different parts of the union have lately arrived and professed the doctrine of Mormonism,

As we have not, heretofore, referred to this society, we will give the outlines of their new book, which they say is a revelation from Heaven -- the "Golden Bible" -- the "Book of Mormon," to use their own language "written in letters of gold, and sent from Heaven, to their inspired prophet, Joseph Smith." They have enlisted in their cause respectable and intelligent men, among the numbers, ministers of the gospel, of different persuasions. They refuse all medical aid, and many have already fell victims to their incredulity, but they are unwavering in belief, and are to hold a meeting, or rather a Jubilee in this month, when many miraculous fetes are to be performed; among others that of raising the dead; and they expect shortly to have several miraculous births among them. Their location is in Geauga county. Upwards of four hundred citizens, of that county, have thus degraded themselves, by becoming followers of this false prophet.   Jef. Dem.


Note: This same article, from the Jeffersonian Democrat, was reprinted in the Wooster, Ohio Republican Advocate of July 16, 1831.

VARIETY.

Awful, Indeed! -- An earthquake has taken place within 200 miles of Pekin; from 500,000 to one million beings are represented to have perished; twelve towns or cities are destroyed. The earthquake was accompanied by storms and floods that lasted three days.


Note 1: This same report was published in the Rhode Island Providence Patriot of Sept. 10, 1831; the Delaware Dover Gazette of Sept. 13, and several other newspapers of that late summer. See especially the Ohio Hudson Observer of July 7, 1831, which featured an article entitled, "Is China Sunk!" A correspondent of the newspaper wrote "...I have lately heard that China is sunk! The news almost astonished me... So sudden a destruction of nearly two hundred millions of human lives..." "...as I passed through New London, (Huron co.) a week or two since, I learned that they had a great Jo Smith meeting there the Sabbath before; that a young Prophetess, who is but eleven years of age, and much celebrated among the Mormons, informed her audience, that she had lately had a vision, and a new revelation was disclosed to her, the substance, (which she several times repeated,) was that "China was sunk!" On my making inquiry of them where China was situated, they could not inform me; but an aged man who is probably one of the superior order among them, informed me, he expected it lay 'somewhere in the old countries.'"

Note 2: It remains uncertain whether the purported Chinese natural disaster mentioned in the Ohio press at the beginning of July was the same tragedy as reported in the eastern papers of August and Spetember. The Times of London and other reliable newspapers had published news of a similar earthquake in China, occuring in 1830 but only commented upon in early 1831. Assuming that the July, August and September, 1831 accounts are all traceable to the same original source, then the common detail of "storms and floods that lasted three days" in China, may have given rise to an uninformed conclusion that China was "sunk."

Some extraordinary proceedings in reference to the deluded sect of the Mormonites, took place recently in Jackson county, Missouri, where is the principal settlement of that people. -- A public meeting of the citizens was held, in which they passed resolutions that no Mormon should hereafter settle in or move into that county, and that those now there should remove within a reasonable time, after they shall have settled up their business. They required the editor of the Star, a paper published for the purpose of advocating Mormon doctrines, to discontinue his paper forthwith. For the alternative, in case of any failure to comply with any of these requisitions, the Mormonites were "referred to those of their brethren, who have the gift of divination, & unknown tongues, to inform them of the lot which awaits them." These significant resolutions were read and adopted, and a committee appointed to wait on the leaders of the sect, and provide for the strict performance of the order of the meeting. The order was not complied with -- no answer being given by the editor of the Mormonite press and the keeper of "the Lord's store-house," to whom the communication was particularly addressed -- and therefore the meeting resolved to raze the printing office to the ground, but provided by resolution for the preservation of the materials of the establishment -- the Missouri Times asks, if for their own use? Subsequently another meeting was had, the result of which was an agreement between the citizens attending the meeting and the Mormonites. By this agreement a number of the Mormonites undertook to remove with their families, before the first of January, and to induce all their brethren to remove, 1 half by the first of January, and one half by the first of April -- to discourage any further settlement and to discontinue the press. On these conditions the meeting undertook to protect them and their property from violence.

This seems to us an unwise proceeding -- as it is manifestly illegal and oppressive. Contempt is a better means for contending against such absurdities than proscription.   Baltimore American.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Civil War in the West. -- The St. Louis Republican of Nov. 12th , contains a letter from Orson Hyde, (one of the persecuted Mormonites,) giving at length some account of a most flagrant and outrageous attack upon these deluded people, by the citizens of Jackson county. On Thursday night, Oct. 31, between forty and fifty persons congregated in a mob and demolished twelve dwelling houses belonging to the Mormonites -- the inmates fled into the woods. On Friday night another attack was made upon their storehouse, which was demolished, and the goods scattered through the streets. On Saturday night, the mob again attacked them, but the Mormonites had prepared themselves and shot one of the mob. On Monday, the mob collected to the number of between 2 and 300, well armed. At night a part of this number made a descent upon the Mormonites, but the latter were so well prepared, that three of the mob were killed, and a number mortally wounded. On Tuesday night, another battle was fought, in which about 20 of the mob were shot, and 2 or 3 of the Mormonites. The magistrates refused to interfere in the matter -- Carrolltonian.


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Governor of Missouri lately exercised his constitutional power of pardoning a person convicted of murder, under the belief of the insanity of the perpetrator of it. The act occasioned no little excitement at St. Louis, where the effigy of the Governor was paraded through the streets, and afterwards burnt.

---

The riotous proceedings recently waged against the Mormonites in Jackson county, Missouri, have since been brought to a close, and the sect are about leaving that part of the country. The number of persons killed in the late affrays was six, and several were badly wounded. -- Baltimore American.


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Mormon War.-- A letter from the Rev. B. Pixley, to the editor of the New York Observer, relative to the civil war in Missouri between the inhabitants and the Mormons. gives a somewhat different version of the affair, from that published some time ago, in this paper, on the authority of Orson Hyde, one of the Elders. From Mr. P.'s account, it appears that the sect proclaimed that the spot they had selected was the Zion spoken of in scripture -- that the present inhabitants would be driven off, and that they, the Mormons, should inhabit the country. This arrogant pretence, coupled with an invitation to all the free negroes to come and join them, aroused a spirit of opposition, and induced the citizens, last summer, to pull down their printing office. They were proceeding to other extremities, when expostulation ensued and a treaty was made in which it was agreed that the Mormons should move away before another summer, and in consideration thereof the other party were to make good the loss sustained by destroying their printing office.

Instead, however of making any preparations for departure, the Mormons proceeded to arm themselves, barricaded portions of their settlement, and threatened to kill any one who should molest them. This provoked a renewal of hostilities, and the consequences have been that in the skirmishes that have taken place, three of the Mormons have been killed, and about twenty of the inhabitants.

At the last encounter the citizens proved too powerful for the Mormonites, and would have destroyed them but for the interposition of the civil authorities. Great exasperation continued to prevail, and no immediate means of composing the difficulties were as yet perceptible.

Still later accounts represent that a cessation of hostilities had taken place between the Mormonites and the inhabitants of Jackson county, in consequence of which the former were rapidly leaving their country and their homes, with the intention of forming another community elsewhere. The extent of loss of lives is said to have been exaggerated -- and it is now confidently affirmed that only four of the Mormons and two of their opponents have been killed.


Note: The above articles appears to be a reprint from the Dec. 19, 1833 issue of the New York Spectator.

THE  MORMONITES  AGAIN,

Governor Dunklin of Missouri, has issued an Executive Letter, directed to several leading men of the Mormon persuasion, directing them to appeal to the courts of law, which are bound to render them satisfaction for the late outrageous assaults upon their rights and liberties as peaceable citizens. The Governor says. "in the event that the laws cannot be executed, and that fact is officially made known to me, my duty will require me to take such steps as will enforce a faithful execution of them."

We may infer from this declaration, that justice is to be rendered to that much abused people, the Mormonites, who have been punished on account of their Religion. If this kind of proscription is permitted, the sacred bonds of friendship are sundered, and savage customs must be restored with all their bloody rites! It is in vain to deny, that sectarian influence has nothing to do in this matter-the stake and the fagot was anciently used to burn heretics, and if they are to be revived again, we may bid adieu to liberty equality, and the rights of man! If we may judge, from what has transpired in Missouri, a strong party of fanatics (not mormonites,) are determined to carry their accursed blue laws into effect, the same laws that were enforced in New England, during the age of Puritan misrule. Danville (Ill.) Inquirer.


Note: The above article was reprinted in the Feb. 1834 issue of the Mormons' Evening and Morning Star, quoting from an Ohio paper. An abbreviated version of this same report was reprinted in the Mar. 6, 1834 issue of the Rochester Daily Democrat.

THE  MORMONS  IN  MISSOURI.

Current information from Missouri confirms the apprehensions entertained of the breaking out of a furious Civil War between the Mormons and the residents of Jackson county, in the State of Missouri. The Fayette Monitor, of the 21st, says "By our next number we anticipate something (on the Mormon controversy) in an authentic form. The People may look for the worst."

(view remainder of article from Washington paper)

Notes: (forthcoming)

We have been looking out for some days past for news of bloodshed between the Mormons and their opponents in Jackson county, in Missouri. The subjoined is the first report of it, and being through a private channel, may not be very accurate. -- National Intelligencer.

From the Chardon (Ohio) Spectator, July 12.

A Mormon Battle. -- A letter received, by a gentleman in this neighborhood, direct from Missouri, stating that a body of well armed Mormons, led on by their great prophet, Joe Smith, lately attempted to cross the river into Jackson county. A party of the citizens of Jackson county opposed their crossing, and a battle ensued, in which, Joe Smith was wounded in the leg, and the Mormons obliged to retreat: that Joe Smith's limb was amputated, but he died three days after the operation.


Notes: (forthcoming)

The report of a battle between the citizens of Jackson county, Missouri, in which it was said that the Mormon leader was slain, is not confirmed. The accounts from St. Louis, make it probable that no such collision has taken place but that on the contrary, the Mormons have abandoned the attempt to use force in order to regain possession

Jackson county, the disputed lands in which are the object of Mormon zeal, is the Holy land of their religion, where the millennium of their faith is to be accomplished. They still adhere to the persuasion, that they will be put in possession, and establish their doctrines triumphantly on that spot. Their prophets who have taught them these notions, have, however, with a shrewd regard to their present credit, given them warning that their triumph may not be completed for a hundred years. It is to be hoped that their faith, if it be strong enough to digest the prophecy, will be strong enough to induce them to wait patiently for its accomplishment without crusading sword in hand, against the infidels, whose stay in the land is thus reduced to lease for years. -- Baltimore American.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Mormonism in Massachusetts.

Strange as it may seem, those senseless wretches, the Mormons, have numerous and organized societies in the neighborhood of Northampton, Mass.; and in South Hadley they have formed a junction with another precious denomination of fanatics who call themselves "Perfectionists," forsooth. Their religious (!) exercises consist of exhortations, jumpings, dances &c., and they have, says a Northampton paper, found a dozen proselytes among the highly intelligent citizens of old Hampshire. We beg the editor's pardon, but we fancy there must be some mistake about the "intelligence" aforesaid.


Note: The above item was reprinted from a mid-March issue of the Philadelphia Gazette. See the Mar. 17, 1835 issue if the Troy Daily Whig for another version of this report.

An Angel caught. -- The Magazine and Advocate says, says, that while the Mormon Prophet, Jo Smith, was in Ohio, engaged in proselying people to the faith of the "Golden Bible," he sought to give additional solemnity to the Baptismal rite, by affirming that on each occasion an angel would appear on the opposite side of the stream, and there remain till the conclusion of the ceremony. The rite was administered in the evening in Grand River, near Painesville, not by the Prophet in person, but by his disciples. In agreement with the prediction of the Prophet, on each occasion a figure in white was seen on the opposite bank, and the faith of the faithful was thereby greatly increased. Suspicions, as to the incorporeal nature of the reputed angel, at length induced a company of young men (unbelievers of course) to examine the quality of the ghost, and having secreted themselves, they awaited its arrival. -- Their expectations were soon realized, by its appearance in its customary position, and rushing from their lair, they succeeded in forcing it into the stream, & although its efforts at escape were powerful, they succeeded in bearing it in triumph to the opposite side of the stream, when who should this supposed inhabitant of the upper world be, but the Mormon Prophet himself! -- Rochester Republican


Note: A report in the June 6, 1835 Evangelical Magazine and Gospel Advocate led to the condensed article in the Rochester Republican. The Mormons responded to the Republican's version of this report in their LDS Messenger & Advocate of July 1835.

MORMONISM.

Mormonism has broken out in Boston, and not the yellow fever, as was reported. One of the leaders of that precious gang, styling himself "an elder among the latter day saints," gives notice that he will give a lecture on his creed in Julien Hall. These are precious times, and almost lead us to a belief that a part of the fellow's title may not be amiss, namely, the "latter day," for it would seem that Satan has broken loose. -- U. S. Gaz.


Notes:" (forthcoming)

Jo Smith, the Mormon prophet, has bought three mummies, and has discovered they are the bodies of Joseph (the son of Jacob,) and King Abimelech and his daughter. They are now carrying them about the country with which to gull poor human nature. -- Pennsylvanian.

Note: The above new item appears to be a paraphrase of the Daily National Intelligencer article of August 21, 1835, which in turn reprinted a report from the Pittsburgh Chronicle of August 13th. The original source for all of these news items was the Cleveland Whig of July 31, 1835.

Mormonism in New England. -- The Mormons have congregated in some force at a place called St. Johns-burg [sic - Johnsbury?], in Vermont. -- Their house of worship is an old barn, which they have fitted up. The elect from the land of faith and promise in the West have despatched twelve apostles to the East for the purpose of making proselytes. An eastern paper furnishes and account of their mode of worship and the articles of their faith. -- A brother of Joe Smith the chief prophet of the western tribe of Mormon Saints, is the principle apostle now on a pilgrimage of faith to the East. He claims -- as do his brethren -- the gift of tongues, and the gift of healing -- and he recommends -- very justly, that these gifts be not abused. The saints to whom they have vouchsafed, have trifled with both these gifts. Their gift of tongues has induced them to talk a great deal of nonsense, and their gift of healing has failed in its efficacy, probably because those on whom it was exercised, were deficient in faith. By the book of Mormon it appears, that a large tract of country has been set by Providence with proper metes and bounds, for the abiding place of the latter day saints, to which, although they have a right, yet they consider it prudent to obtain an earthly title by purchase. The object of the Mormon apostles is to induce certain ignorant fanatics in the East to dispose of their property, and proceed to the West. There is every reason to believe -- says an Eastern paper -- that they will succeed in making proselytes in Vermont. N. Y. Times.


Note: According to the RLDS History of the Church, (Vol. 1, pp. 569-570): "The Twelve met in conference, agreeably to previous appointment, at Saint Johnsbury, Vermont... Six of the council adressed the conference on principles of faith and action." The "brother of Joe Smith" mentioned in the text was William Smith. See the National Daily Intelligencer of Aug. 20, 1835 for a much lengthier, personal correspondence version of this same news report.

THE  MORMONS.

A gentleman living in Lorane county Ohio, writes that a more extraordinary sect has not sprung up since the days of Mahomet. In the town of Kirtland they have erected a stone temple at an expense of $40,000. It is 60 by 80 feet broad; and 50 feet high. It has two rows of Gothic windows. The floor is the place of worship, with four rows of pulpits at each end, having three pulpits in a row. These twelve pulpits rise behind and above one another, and are designed, the uppermost row for the bishop and his counsellors, the second for the priest and his counsellors, the third for the teachers, and the fourth or lowest for the deacons. Over the division between each of the rows of pulpits is a painted canvass, rolled up to the ceiling, and to be let down at pleasure, so as to conceal the dignitaries from the audience. The area can be divided into four apartments at pleasure to carry on the objects of imposture. The second and attic stories are for a theological and literary seminary, which is expected to have the manual labor system attached to it. The Mormons are very eager to acquire an education. -- Men, women, and children are studying Hebrew. Some of the men pursue their Hebrew till 12 o'clock at night, and attend to nothing else. They pretend to have remarkable revelations, work miracles, heal the sick, &c.


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Mormons. -- The followers of the prophet, Joseph Smith, and the believers in the Golden Bible, are becoming a formidable sect in the U. S. We might look upon such modern credulity with amazement -- we might be surprised to see such absurdities, nay worse than absurdities, the most brazen blasphemies -- espoused and taught by the tongue of eloquence, & believed with implicit faith -- did not history force upon us the humiliating fact that no intelligence is too great, no mind too strong to become the dupe of fanatics and impostors. The mind upon all ordinary matters may be perfectly sane, while in others it can be little less than lunatic. It might be supposed that the good sense of the people would put down these glaring impostures in the first step -- but what is the fact? Mathias had more influence over his followers, than all other human efforts combined. When he told them to pour their wealth into his lap, or demanded the basest prostitution of his deluded victims, they thought eternal salvation depended upon their compliance. When Jo. Smith raised a band of his followers, armed to defend the city of Zion in Missouri, and a dispute arose whether they should encamp or march on, the prophet came, and in the most imposing manner exclaimed -- "In the name of the Lord God -- march on!" and all sedition was hushed and not a murmur heard. -- When witchcraft spread such terror among our puritanical leaders of New England, how many unfortunate creatures suffered the bitterest persecutions from the hallucinations of some misguided fanatic or enthusiast. Even the reality of ghosts, and the influence of visible intangible supernatural beings, are firmly believed by hundreds and thousands in the community.

But we designed to note the progress of the Mormons. They have a society in Massachusetts, probably several in Ohio and other western States, and have recently erected a splendid temple for the twelve apostles who are the preachers: the cost of which is 40,000 or 50,000 dollars. A building calculated far to outlive the poor deluded mortals who have erected it, and to go down to their children as a monument of their absurdity... -- Village Record.


Note: The reprint of this article appears to be an abbreviated version of the original. Very little is actually related here, concerning the Mormons and their place in American society.

The Monroe, Michigan, Bank has one hundred and twenty-two thousand dollars in circulation, and only a little over one thousand dollars in specie wherewith to redeem it -- it has also stopped payment....

Notes: (forthcoming)

From the Painesville Republican.

MORMONISM  EXPOSED.

(view original article from Ohio paper)

 


Notes: (forthcoming)

SHOCKING.

Mr. Casson Draper, aged 19 years, was killed in Twinsburg, Portage co. on the 19th of April, by the fall of a tree. -- The deceased, and an elder brother, repaired to the woods in the morning & commenced chopping, and at noon both were found crushed by the first tree they had fallen. The surviving one is badly injured & cannot probably survive, though we understand some of the Mormon priests have been testing their pretended 'gift of miracles' upon the bruised man. -- Cleveland Herald.


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Mormons. -- The Mormons to the number of about 500, with 57 wagons, filled with furniture, cattle, &c. have left Geauga county, Ohio, on their way to the "promised land" in Missouri. They pitch their tents in the open fields at night, after the manner of the ancient Israelites.


Notes: (forthcoming)

MORE  OF  THE  MORMONS.

It appears from the annexed letter, which we copy from the St. Louis Republican, that blood has already been spilt in a conflict between the Mormons and a Missouri mob, and that a still more serious collision is threatened. The Republican adds, that a messenger bearing despatches to Governor Boggs, arrived in St. Louis, on Tuesday, the 11th inst.

(view Dunnica letter from Missouri paper)

Notes: (forthcoming)

Further from the Mormons. -- We learn by the Pirate, which arrived at noon to-day, that, on Tuesday night, the anti-Mormons were still in force near Dewitt. The Pirate lay at Greenville, seven miles above Dewitt, on Tuesday night. At that time, information had come in, that the anti-Mormons had given their opponents notice that they must take up their line of march next morning, at 8 o'clock. This the Mormons refused to do. It was reported, also, that the anti-Mormons had sent word to the Mormons that, if they would collect their women and children in one house, that house should not be fired on. As the Prate passed down on Wednesday morning, by Dewitt, a flag was seen flying over one of the largest houses there. From all appearances, there is reason to believe that a conflict took place on Wednesday. -- St. Louis Republican.


Notes: (forthcoming)

From the Baltimore American.

MORMON TROUBLES. -- A slip from the Missouri Watchman, of the 29th October, contains the proceedings of a meeting of the citizens of Ray county, convened for the purpose of considering the difficulties existing between the people of Missouri and the Mormons. At this meeting a report was made by three persons, who had visited certain places in Davies County, where the Mormons were reported to have committed excesses. They found numerous ruins of dwellings, stores, mills, &c., which were laid in ashes, and were informed that their contents had previously been pillaged by the Mormons and carried off. It was also stated to them that the Mormons had driven away large numbers of cattle. -- They were represented to be about 600 strong. These persons were deterred from prosecuting their inquiries further, from the fact of their meeting families removing into Ray County for safety, who stated that the country on the north side of Grand River was devastated and entirely deserted, except by the Mormons.

A letter was also read to the meeting from Judge King, of much the same tenor as the above report, and stating in addition that the Mormons are hauling provisions from the surrounding country and preparing for a siege by building block houses, &c., as they expect that an armed force will be shortly sent against them. The opinion is expressed that the civil authority is entirely too weak to control the lawless band.

Another letter was read in the meeting stating that information had been received that the Mormons designed an attack on the town of Richmond on the night of the 25th October, and that the women and children were flying in the utmost consternation, while the men were preparing to defend the town.

Resolutions were then passed requesting the Governor immediately to order out an armed force to quell the insurrection, to protect the persons and property of the citizens of Missouri, and to drive from the State this powerful band of robbers. It was also resolved to raise three companies of soldiers to guard the northern boundary of Ray County and prevent the intrusion of the Mormons.

In consequence of these proceedings, the Governor ordered a force of three thousand men to be raised, and proceed immediately to the relief of the suffering inhabitants of Daviess county.

The Missourian, published at Fayette, near the seat of Government, states that the Governor had received a letter from Gen. Clark, informing him that he had so far anticipated his orders as to order out 600 mounted men, and directed them to march that morning, the 29th. The authority conferred on Gen. Clark, to close the warfare, is very full, and there is little doubt, from the spirit manifested among the people, that the difficulties will soon be terminated.

---

From the Baltimore American.

MORMON TROUBLES. -- An arrival at St. Louis from above, confirms the reports which were previously current, of the burning of the Daviess Court-House, Post Office and a store by the Mormons. It is stated that the Governor had ordered out 4000 militia; and that volunteer companies were rapidly being organized to march to the scene of action. The Mormons are said to be receiving daily accessions to their numbers by emigrants from Canada.

---

==> ADDITIONAL PARTICULARS. -- The Missourian of the 27th ult., printed at Fayette, gives the following additional information. A company was to be organized in Fayette on the morning of the 27th.   (see Woodward letter and Jones letter from that issue)

---

The St. Louis Republican of the 1st inst., after publishing the foregoing accounts, adds:

"We have conversed with a gentleman who says that he had held a conversation, in person with Jo Smith, a few days ago, and that Smith stated that his people were prepared to die in defence of what they thought to be their rights, that although the Governor might raise and send against them the power of the State, yet he, and all the men he could bring, would not drive them from their present homes."


Note: The files of the Missouri Watchman are incomplete and not easily accessible; it was a weekly paper, published at Jefferson City by Hammond & Cronenbold. It was started on Mar. 29, 1838, a few months before the "Mormon War" began in upper Missouri. The mid-Nov. article published in the Baltimore American may be one of the few extant reprints of the Missouri Watchman's Oct. 29, 1838 report on Mormon depredations in Daviess Co. See the Oct. 6, 1838 issue of Niles Register for a slightly earlier report from the Watchman.

From the Mormons.

We have highly exciting intelligence from Missouri. The Mormonites and their opponents were in the field, and already a number of lives have been sacrificed.

                                                               Carrolton, Oct. 25, 1838.
Gentlemen: News of an appalling nature has just reached us. Capt. Bogard, who was ordered with his company to guard the frontier of Ray county, was attacked and cut to pieces by immense numbers. The were overpowered by 300 or 400 Mormons, while they were guarding their own families. But five minutes ago, three reports of a cannon were heard in the direction of Richmond. Firing has been heard in various directions, and there is no doubt but that these infatuated villians have attacked Richmond.

The news of their burning and pillage has already reached you. They have indubitably captured the cannon, and taken many prisoners; probably killed many. Daviess county is a scene of desolation. Ray is probably so ere this time; and their next movement will be at this place. It is already threatened.

Be up and doing. Bring all the men you can, and let us check them in their course of destruction and devastation. They are moving on with great strides to the climax of anarchy, civil war, and desolation. Wolf and Baker will explain all. I have just received orders, by express, from Gen. Brig. Parks, to raise 150 mounted men. Fifty have volunteered, and the remainder I will obtain in a day or two.

Stir the people up in Howard and Chariton. -- Send all the braves you can with Wolf, and we can meet and check them in their mad career.
                      Yours in haste,
                          WM. CLAUDE JONES.

      To Congrave Jackson and others.

---

STILL  LATER.

The following is published in the St. Louis Bulletin, as the copy of a letter from Daviess County, Missouri.

Sir: I deem it my duty, made so not only from the law, as an officer, but also as an individual, to report and make known to your excellency the unheard of, unprecedented conduct and high handed proceedings of the Mormons of this and Caldwell Counties, towards the people of the county, being myself one of the sufferers.

On Monday the 15th inst., we learned that the Mormons were collecting in Far West, for the purpose of driving what they termed the mob from Daviess, by which we understood the citizens who were not Mormons; and accordingly they have come, and their worst apprehensions have been already fulfilled.

They have plundered, robbed and burned every house in Gallatin, (our county seat,) among the rest our post-office. They have driven almost every individual from the county, who are now flying before them with their families, many of whom have been forced out without their ordinary clothing -- their wives and their children wading in many instances through the snow, even without their shoes. When the miserable families are thus forced from their homes, they plunder and burn their houses. This they are making this universal throughout the county. They have burned for me two houses. Think not this exaggeration, for all is not told; and for the truth of all and every statement here made, I pledge the honor of an officer and a gentleman.

I neglected to state that among the rest, our County Treasurer's office has been also burned.

P. S. -- The amount of property of various kinds stolen or destroyed at this time is not less than $20,000, and the work is still going on.


Note: For a lengthier version of the report from Daviess Co., see the Oct. 27, 1838 issue of the Fayette Missourian.

The Mormon War at an end

(see Nov. 8th Missouri Republican for this article.)

---

Later Still, and Contradictory.

From the St. Louis Bulletin, of Nov. 8.

MORMONS. --There are various rumors afloat concerning the surrender of the Mormons, and we are afraid that the disturbances have not terminated so amicably as was reported. We have conversed with a gentleman who arrived yesterday afternoon from Jefferson city, on board the St. Peter's, and he states that, an express arrived there on Wednesday night, bringing intelligence that a party of Mormons, who had fortified themselves in a house, were attacked by the volunteers under the command of Gen. Lucas, and thirty-two of them were killed --seven of the volunteers were wounded and one killed. It is further stated that the Governor had issued orders to Gen. Clark to retain as many of the volunteer companies as was necessary, to keep the Mormon prisoners until the meeting of the Legislature.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Mormonism.

(see Nov. 26th Philadelphia Sentinel for this article.)

---

MORE OF THE MORMONS.

                                                                     St. Louis, Nov. 17.
The Mormon War. -- The Western mail, yesterday, brought us some additional particulars in regard to the disturbance in Caldwell county. The Far West, published at Liberty, states that General Clark still remained at the town of Far West, having under his command 1,300 men, who were employed in guarding the captured Mormons. The General had despatched an order to Gen. Lucas commanding him to return Jo and Hiram Smith, Rigdon, Wight, Robinson and Hunt, for trial in Richmond, Ray County. Gen. Lucas was on his way to Jackson county and it is said refused to obey this order. A great many of the Mormons had made their escape from Caldwell county, leaving their families.

The Far West also says:

"Just as our paper was going to press, we received a communication from General Lucas giving the stipulations of the treaty made by him and the Mormons:

1st. To give up their leaders to be tried and punished.

2d. To make an appropriation of the peoperty of all who had taken up arms, for the payment of the debt, and as indemnity for damages done by them.

3d. That the Mormons should all leave the state and be protected out by the militia; but to remain under protection, until further orders from the Commander-in-chief.

4th. To give up all arms of every discription, to be receipted for.

Note: See the Nov. 24, 1838 issue of the Springfield Sangamo Journal for a lengthier version of the Far West's report, as reprinted from the Nov. 17, 1838 issue of the Missouri Republican.

THE  MORMON  PRISONERS.

We learn from the Western Star, of November 20, that the examining trial of the Mormons before Judge King, closed at Richmond on the Wednesday previous. That paper says, "Some twenty-five of thirty were discharged, and about thirty-five are retained for indictment and trial -- some for treason against the State, some for murder, some as accessories to murder, and some for arson, burglary, robbery and larceny. -- We are informed the testimony discloses many facts which have not yet been published to the world, but not deeming it proper to make them the subject of newspaper comment before the trials of the accused, we forbear their disclosure. We are not apprized with certainty what steps will be taken for the safe custody of the prisoners, but think it most probable they will be divided and sent to the jails of the most convenient counties having jails. They are at present under the guard of a part of Capt. Bogard's company of militia, Gen. Clark having disbanded all his troops by order of the Governor.

The indictments will be preferred in the counties of Ray and Daviess, but it is tho't the venue will be changed from these counties at the instance [sic -insistence?] of the prisoners.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Correspondence of the U. S. Gazette.

                                                        Washington, Dec. 21.
... Several of the Mormon leaders are at present in the city. Their object is to obtain recompense for losses sustained by them in consequence of the outrages committed on them in Missouri. The statement which they have addresses to the President and Congress, presents details of robbery & butchery, at which the heart sickens. Houses burned, men slaughtered in cold blood, women driven into the woods to give birth to their off-spring in the den of the wolf, are pictures too horrible for contemplation. They appear to be peaceful and harmless, and if fanaticism has led them into error, reason, not violence, should be used to reclaim them.

Joe Smith, the leader and prophet of the sect, who professes to have received the golden plates on which the Mormon creed was transcribed, and who has figured so conspicuously in fight, is a tall muscular man, with a countenance not absolutely unintellectual. On the contrary, it exhibits much shrewdness of character. His height is full six feet, and his general appearance is that of a plain yeoman, intended rather for the cultivation of the soil, than the expounding of prophecy. Without the advantage of education, he has applied himself, with much industry, to the acquisition of knowledge; and although his diction is inaccurate, and his selection of words not always in good taste, he converses very fluently on the subject nearest to his heart, and whatever may be thought of the correctness of his opinions, no one who talks with him, can doubt that his convictions of their truth are sincere and settled. His eye betokens a resolute spirit, and he would doubtless go to the stake to attest his firmness and devotion, with as little hesitation as did any of the leaders of the olden time. It is not probable that any relief will be obtained by these persons from the Federal Government. Their remedy lies against the State of Missouri. But it is to be apprehended, from the deep sense of their wrongs, which rankles in their hearts, and the determination they evince to right themselves, if they cannot be protected by the law, that they will return to Missouri, and commence a retributive course of action, which, from their number may be productive of greater evils than those which have already occurred. I understand that the followers of this new creed, throughout the United States, already exceeds 200,000, and they are still on the increase. Persecution swells their ranks.

There are two others of their leaders here, Sidney Rigdon, and Judge Higbee, of whom I may give you some account in another letter.


Note 1: The above letter evidently appeared in the Philadelphia Gazette during the last week of 1839. Whether the correspondent furnished that paper the promised "account" of Rigdon and Higbee "in another letter" remains undetermined.

Note 2: Eye-witness descriptions of Joseph Smith, jr., from the 1830s are quite rare. A few exist from the time he was ensconced among his followers at Kirtland, Ohio: outsider acccounts of Smith during his days at Far West and immediately following the Saints' expulsion from Missouri are more difficult to locate. The above communication is a rare example of the latter.

TheMormons. -- The corner stone of the Great Mormon Temple (that is to be) at Nauvoo, Illinois, was laid on the 6th instant, in presence of seven or eight thousand persons, and the Nauvoo Military Legion, consisting of six hundred and fifty men. -- The Warsaw, Ill. 'World' says:

'Mr. Rigdon officiated at the laying of the chief corner stone, and addressed the assembly in a very energetic manner, in a speech of about an hour's length. On the whole, the exercises passed off with the utmost order, without accident or the slightest disturbance. General Bennet commanded the Legion, under the direction of the Prophet, and acquitted himself in a truly officer-like manner.'


Notes: (forthcoming)

Mormonism. -- The spread of this singular delusion is one of the most remarkable signs of the times. What the sign may denote, beyond an extensive degree of credulity in poor human nature, it is not for us to say. The extension of this sect is proceeding rapidly, not only in the West, but in the very centre also of the most populous and educated portion of New England. In Boston, it is stated, a church was established in March last, numbering thirty converts; it is now filled with a large congregation. From this point they have radiated throughout the neighboring towns. In Chelsea, Medway & Salem, the foundations of Mormonism have been laid, In the last named town nearly seventy have been baptized into the faith. They have extended themselves also into New Hampshire, At Peterborough seventy were baptized in one day, and the church in that place numbers over 100 members.

The great head establishment of this sect is at Nauvoo, in the State of Illinois. They have there laid out the plan of a city on a vast scale, and are proceeding to the erection of a magnificent temple. -- From what we can learn of their system of operations in that settlement, it appears to be marked by orderly arrangements and persevering effort. A strong military organization is one prominent feature of their policy; and with this the elements of religious and municipal government are intimately united. We saw it stated recently that the martial force of Nauvoo consisted of two thousand men, fully equipped and well disciplined. -- Whether this statement be exaggerated or not we cannot tell -- but so it goes.

Of the religious tenets of the Mormons we cannot speak from accurate knowledge. They profess to receive the Bible, both the Old and New Testaments, but claim also to have an additional revelation. This, it is declared, came into the hands of Joe Smith, their chief Prophet, in the form of a book with golden leaves, which he affirms that he found in some retired place. From this book, styled the Book of Mormon, the sect takes its name. They, however, call themselves the "Latter Day Saints." -- It appears that Joe has lately taken the benefit of the Bankrupt Law; but whether the debts from which he seeks to be discharged are due to his own people, or to the surrounding strangers, we do not know. If all accounts are true, he has practised the grossest impositions upon the faithful with a degree of imperturbable coolness which none but a prophet could hope to imitate. -- Balt. American.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Joe Smith , charged with sending Mormons into Missouri to assassinate Gov. Boggs, and for whom a requisition had been made by the Gov. of Missouri, was brought before Judge Pope at Springfield, Illinois, on the 5th instant, on a writ of habeas corpus, and discharged. The decision in the case was upon the ground that he was not a fugitive from justice, and consequently not the subject of a surrender to the authorities of another State.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Orin Porter Rockwell, the Mormon who has been accused of being the person who attempted to assassinate ex-Governor Boggs, of Missouri, last summer, was apprehended at St. Louis on the 6th instant, and committed to jail. -- He will now have to stand his trial.

Notes: (forthcoming)

More Mormons. -- We learn that no less than three hundredlive Mormons arrived yesterday from Liverpool in the ship Swanton. They are on their way to Nauvoo, but we shrewdly opine that their faith in Joe Smith will be most essentially worked out of them before they arrive as his strong hold. -- N. Orleans Picayune.

Notes: (forthcoming)

There is a split among the Mormons, and the seceders, under one Hinkle, have set up a separate establishment on their own hook near a place called Blue Grass, somewhere in the territory of Iowa. Hinkle has already baptized four hundred into his new form of fanaticism, and appears to be driving a lively business of it. After he has baptized his new recruits he lays his hands upon their head when he says they receive power to prophesy, cure the sick, heal the lame, and perform all other miracles, like the Apostles of our Saviour! We have a great deal to say about the 'march of intelligence,' and abundance of flattery to bestow upon the enlightenment of the nineteenth century, the spread of science and the ameliorating influence of education, but it seems to us that there is about as much gross ignorance and disgusting fanaticism in our day as at any former period .. N. Y. Courier.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Nauvoo. -- The editor of the Cuyahoga Falls True American says he conversed with a gentleman a day or two since who had lately visited the Mormon Prophet, who states that there are now at Nauvoo, congregated from all parts of the world, some 17 or 18,000 souls. -- in a miserable, wretched condition, subject to the order of Smith. While hundreds become dissatisfied with the represented 'Promised Land,' and leave for a better 'heritage,' their places are filling up by fresh converts in a wicked system of delusion. The great temple, estimated to cost half a million dollars, has advanced about 11 feet in the walls.

---

An establishment is about being put in operation at the Mormon city of Nauvoo, for the manufacture of raw silk grown in this country. Experienced workmen from England are concerned on it.


Notes: (forthcoming)

A gentleman from the Mormon city of Nauvoo a few days since, informs the editor of the Cincinnati Chronicle, that of the 15,000 persons who make up the population of Nauvoo, about one-third are of various religious denominations. The arrest of their leader Joe Smith has caused great excitement, and he confirms the previous statement that two parties of armed Mormons had left the city for the rescue of Smith while on his way to Springfield, Illinois. He adds that all the gunpowder at Nauvoo had been made into ball cartridges, and even the women had been actively engaged in casting balls, and making cartridges.


Notes: (forthcoming)

A special edict to the Philadelphia Mormons is published in the last Nauvoo Times and Seasons. They are 'instructed and counseled to remove without delay, and locate themselves in the city of Nauvoo, where God has a work for them to accomplish.' The edict is published by order of the 'Quorum of the Twelve.'


Notes: (forthcoming)

Prospects of another Mormon War. -- The St. Louis New Era, of the 16th ultimo, says:

"We learn by a gentleman from Warsaw, that a meeting of the people of Hancock county to be held at Carthage, was called for to-day, to take into consideration their relations with the Mormons. It is said that a good deal of excitement exists against them, and apprehensions of a serious riot and outbreak were entertained. The people of that section of the State are as heartily tired of the Mormons as ever the citizens of Missouri were, but they have suffered them to obtain so strong a foothold that no power exists which can deprive them of their possessions, or induce them to abandon their present residence."


Notes: (forthcoming)

Made Mormons of. -- Two young women were baptised into the Mormon faith by immersion on Sunday afternoon. at Salem, Mass. in the South Mill Pond, a hole, of a few yards square, where the water was about three feet deep, having been cut in the ice for that purpose.

Notes: (forthcoming)

Probable Mormon War. -- A large meeting was recently held at Carthage, Illinois, growing out of numerous difficulties of late occurrence between the citizens of Carthage and their neighbors of Nauvoo, at which resolutions were passed strongly denunciatory of the Mormons and their notorious leader, Joe Smith. The Warsaw Message, remarking upon this state of things, holds the following language:

"We see no use in attempting to disguise the fact, that many in our midst contemplate a total extermination of that people; that the thousands of defenceless women and children, aged and infirm, who are congregated at Nauvoo, must be driven out, aye, driven, scattered, like the leaves before the Autumn blast! But what good citizen, let us ask, what lover of his country and his race, but contemplates such an event with horror?"


Notes: (forthcoming)

A fellow named Dennett [sic - Bennett], a seceding Mormon, undertook on Monday, to give a lecture on, and exposition of Mormonism, at the Marlborough Chapel, Boston. A monstrous crowd attended, anxious for the revelation. Dennett confessed that he was caught doing some very naughty tricks. After a time he was interrupted by the explosion of Chinese crackers, and then by a rotten egg leveled at his head; and, subsequently, he was ejected with "force and foot." The plastering of eggs in his hair, and on his face, was frosted by a few pounds of powder, and the poor miserable object was left running with all his might.


Note: See the May 4, 1844 issue of the Fort Madidon Lee County Democrat for a similar account of John C. Bennett's anti-Mormon lecture at Boston's Marlborough Chapel.

Mormons. -- On Friday last, in Little Britain township, Lancaster county, four persons were baptized according to the canons of Joe Smith's church, -- from which we infer that a certain description of people "are not dead yet."

Notes: (forthcoming)

The Mormons. -- A friend has permitted us to copy the annexed extract from a letter from a gentleman of Ohio. The writer, we are assured, is a candid observer and a man of excellent judgment.

"The Mormons, I think, are a sect of people that in process of time will give our civil, religious and political institutions a shock, as has never been witnessed in this country on any subject matter or thing. They are increasing with astonishingly rapidity; their system is perfectly selfish and exclusive; they hold that they are the only true Church of Christ on this earth, that their preachers and apostles and members are divinely inspired, that their prophets are the only true prophets of God, that the new and old Testaments are the sacred oracles of God, but the Catholics and Protestants are in gross error and have not the faith of the true Church and are all a pack of heretics. My opportunity this winter was most favorable for learning much about them. They hold that they can do miracles of all kinds, and receive regular revelation from Heaven, that all their revelations are in accordance with the new Testament and that they are the only true expounders. My deliberate opinion about them in brief is that they have started a new system in imitation of Mahomet of old, and that they have the same object in view that he put successfully in practice, and that their object is the complete subversion of our government. They see what Mahomet did and they will try to follow his footsteps. It will take time to even attempt such a high-handed measure, nor do I think that they will be able ever to accomplish it, but I tell you much blood will be shed in putting them down. You have no conception of the strides they are making.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Schism among the Mormons. -- The last Warsaw (Illinois) Signal states that a rupture has taken place among the Mormons -- a respectable number of the most intelligent members of that body having seceded, under the guidance of William Law, and set up for themselves. It does not appear that the religious views of the seceders have undergone any material change. They profess that Joseph Smith was once a true prophet; but contend that he has now fallen from grace, and not worthy to remain at the head of the Church. Private information (says the Alton Telegraph of the 18th) confirms the above intelligence in the most essential features.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Mormon Outrage. -- The St. Louis Gazette of the 4th instant says an organized party of five or six hundred men has started for Nauvoo, to release from the custody of the Mormons Dr. Hitchcock, U. S. Marshal of Iowa. Dr. H. went to Nauvoo to arrest a criminal, and was seized and confined by the Prophet's followers.

Notes: (forthcoming)

Troubles at Nauvoo. -- It seems that a portion of Joe Smith's followers have rebelled against his authority, and have established a paper called the "Nauvoo Expositor," the first number of which commenced a series of essays to prove that the Prophet was guilty of all the most heinous crimes in the calendar. -- We learn from the Cincinnati Commercial that on the 10th ult. this paper was declared by the authorities of that city a nuisance, and the city marshal at the head of the police, in the evening took the press, materials and paper into the street and burnt them.

---

Affairs at Nauvoo. -- The St. Louis papers state that great excitement was produced at Warsaw, by the news of the destruction of the office of the "Nauvoo Expositor," and a handbill was issued inviting an appeal to arms. At a late hour, writs were procured at Carthage (the seat of Hancock county) and officers despatched to Nauvoo to arrest the persons concerned in the outrage. A rumor prevailed at Warsaw, that Joe Smith was arresting every man at Nauvoo, who was opposed to, or would not justify his proceedings.


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Mormons.

Joe Smith and his Council have surrendered to Gov. Ford, of Illinois. They were taken to Carthage, where they would be examined on the 25th. Joe will be set free on giving bail; but a St. Louis paper says, "a body of 200 horse troop mean to follow him, it is said, until they kill him!"

---

The Governor of Illinois, it is said, has granted an order to try Joe Smith, the Mormon prophet, for un-officer-like conduct. A mandamus has also been issued by Judge Pope, of Illinois, against the Nauvoo council, for ordering the office of the Expositor to be demolished, and thus exceeding the authority granted by the Charter of the city. The people in the neighborhood of Nauvoo were organizing into military companies at the latest dates, and arming themselves for a serious conflict. At Warsaw business had been almost entirely suspended, and every able-bodied man was under arms and almost constantly in drill.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Death of Joe Smith.

==> We stated in our last that Smith and his Council had been arrested and confined in the jail at Carthage. A guard was summoned around the prison by Gov. Ford, who then left for Nauvoo, to take possession of the arms, &c. of the Mormon Legion. During the Governor's absence, on the evening of the 27th ult. it is said that an effort was made to rescue the prisoners, by firing upon the guard, and that at the same time Smith and his friends within the prison seconded the efforts of those without by firing from the windows. This, if correct, was the signal for assault, and immediately the jail was broken into. -- Smith attempted to escape by jumping from the window, in which act he was fired upon and instantly killed, having received a number of bullets in his body.

His brother Hiram Smith was killed in the prison. No others were injured.

Another account (and probably the more correct) states that the guard had been withdrawn with the exception of ten men -- and that a mob of about 50 persons, disguised, taking advantage of this, rushed upon the prison and shot Smith and his brother, in the act of making a defence.

It was feared that the news of the death of their Prophet would so exasperate the Mormons, as to lead to the commission of fearful retaliation, and every precaution was made by the authorities for the safety and protection of the surrounding towns. However, at the last accounts, all was quiet. The dead bodies of the Prophet and his brother had been received at Nauvoo, and buried by the Mormons. Their leaders were urging them to keep the peace, and to commit no overt act. It was thought that there would be no outbreak, but that they would proceed to the selection of another prophet to supply Smith's place.


Notes: (forthcoming)

==> The Governor of Illinois has made a requisition on the U. S. Government for 500 troops, to be stationed in the neighborhood of Nauvoo, to prevent blood-shed by the Mormons or anti-Mormons.

Notes: (forthcoming)

Successor of the Prophet. -- John Hardy, President of the Boston Branch of the Mormons, in reference to a successor to Joe Smith, informs the Editor of the Times that all speculations on this point are "fudge and nonsense," and says, "Samuel H. Smith, the oldest member of the family now living, and a brother of the murdered Prophet, will take the office of his brother Hiram as Patriarch in the church, according to the ancient custom of God's people."


Notes: (forthcoming)

Mormon Affairs. -- It appears that the reports of the re-appearance of Joe Smith and the appointment of his son as prophet, are all false, and originated in a desire to injure the Mormons abroad. Sidney Rigdon had returned to Nauvoo from Pittsburg and preached to the people on the 4th ult. In consequence of the death of Samuel Smith, Joe's brother, since the murder of the prophet, Sidney Rigdon will be chosen patriarch.


Note: The report saying that Sidney Rigdon was to be ordained as the chief Patriarch of the LDS Church did not turn out to be true. The Mormons functioned without a Patriarch for many months, until the Twelve ordained William Smith, the last surviving Smith brother, to that dignity in 1845. Samuel was never made Patriarch to the Church, and his brother William claimed in 1849 that Samuel had been murdered, in order to keep him from attaining that office.

Mormon Anecdote. -- It is very common for Mormons in working miracles to practice in the following manner:

One goes out alone in the garb, and with the appearance of a poor traveler; calls at the house of some country farmer at night, leaving some token by which those who are his confederates may detect his whereabouts. Another one, or more, follows on and stops near by, so that in the morning he may soon reach the abode of the first traveler, to which place he proceeds about breakfast time, coming there just as his predecessor needs him. The first traveler, about day. break, makes his piteous noise as of one in deep distress, alarming the inmates, and calling them around his bed side. For awhile the sick man struggles with disease, and apparently dies in a fit. Just at that moment the second traveler enters -- announces himself a disciple of the Mormons, and declares it is in his power to raise the dead man to life; and putting all aside from the couch of death, commences his necromancy, and soon succeeds in raising the dead to life.

A couple of these impostors went out on an excursion of this kind about two years or more since, and in the course of their travels called at a farm house near Geneseo. The forerunner called on the plain looking farmer, and represented himself as a traveler who was poor, yet on a merciful errand. The farmer was an honest-hearted Methodist, making less show than some, but not less intelligent, christian, or shrewd, than most men. The traveler joined with the family in their devotions, and talked of God and heaven as a christian. No one suspected his hypocrisy.

About 4 oÍclock in the morning the family were awakened by groans proceeding from the lodging room of the stranger. The farmer went into the room and was quite shocked to find his guest suffering apparently in the most intense degree. Many remedies were applied, but of no effect; the sufferer grew worse every hour, until about 7 oÍclock, he appeared to show signs of death. Just at the moment a knocking was heard at the door, and another stranger entered on its being opened.

The family were much frightened, and consequently much gratified with the arrival of any person, although it should be a stranger. He was immediately informed of the case, and introduced into the room; upon entering which he announced himself a mormon priest, and assured the astonished family he could, raise the dying man to life, even should he die -- and, indeed, to convince them of his power, he hoped he would die; which was soon the fact to all appearance. The new comer then ordered all present to stand aside, and not touch the corpse or the bed, but to send for neighbors if they pleased, in order to give full proof of his wonderful work.

Just about that moment it crept into the head of the farmer that a trick was about being played upon them of a blasphemous character, and he quickly resolved to test the same. "Hold," said he, "a moment and do not the miracle until I return." He went out, took an axe from the wood pile, and came in without saying a word -- walked up to the bed side, and addressed the man of miracles as follows:

"You think him really dead?"

"O yes."

"Well, then, I will just cut off his head to make it sure; for if you can raise him to life from death at all, you can do it as well with his head off as on!" and suiting the action to the word, raised the axe as if he would strike; when lo! with a loud shriek, up jumped the dead man, crying, "murder, murder!" at the top of his voice.

Before the proper authorities could he reached, the risen prophet and the prophet bauked put out and fled as from a devouring plague, much to the amusement of the sensible man, who detected his impositions. Since which time no Mormon finds his way into that region to remain long. Syracuse Freeman.


Notes: (forthcoming)

A Vision at Nauvoo. -- Though Joe Smith is dead, the gift of prophecy remains with some of his followers, who seem to exercise it as Joe did, for their own advantages. Sidney Rigdon has had a quarrel with the twelve, and they have cut him off from the church. He threatens to come out with an exposition, and professes to have had a vision, in which it was shown him all that would transpire to the winding up scene. He says he has received the keys of David, spoken of in the third chapter of the Revelations, which shutteth and no man openeth and openeth and no man shutteth. It has been shown to him that the temple will not be finished, and in less than four years there will be blood-shed; about this time; the saints will fight the first great battle at Chambersburg, in Pennsylvania; the second in Harrisburg; third, at Philadelphia; fourth, at Baltimore; fifth, at Washington; sixth, at Richmond; seventh, at New York; eighth at Boston; ninth on the Hudson; tenth, and last on this continent, at Monmouth, New Jersey, in which they will defeat the forces of Queen Victoria; take the shipping that brought over her army, and pass over in divisions to England, France and Spain, and finally complete the conquest of the world, and fight the battles of Gog and Magog, at Jerusalem, when the Saviour will appear, which will be in about eleven years from this time. Sidney says the keys he holds are above those held by Joseph. He has ordained several prophets, who are not to leave Nauvoo at present, but that a sign will be given them when to leave, so that they may assemble and take command of the army. If they have so grand a warlike job to perform, they had better begin soon. It will take some time to carry this design of universal conquest -- Sun.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Infamous. -- The people of Illinois are accused of a plan to starve out the Mormons, and compel them to leave their city: provisions on their way thither are intercepted, and those having them ill treated. The farmers are fearful of their lives being taken if they proceed in the direction of Nauvoo with provisions. Within a few days previous to the 14th ult. numerous Mormons have visited St. Louis to provide the necessities of life. Such persecution of a people, for a difference of religion, is infamously wicked.

---

Trouble brewing at Nauvoo. -- The St. Louis Republican learns by a letter from a gentleman at Springfield, Illinois, that Gov. Ford has issued orders for the march of twenty-five hundred Illinois militia and volunteers to Nauvoo, for the protection of that place. The detachment from Morgan county had been ordered to rendezvous at Beardstown on the 20th ult. No reasons are assigned for this new movement of the Governor, but as it involves a very considerable expenditure to the State, it may be presumed that it has not been done without urgent necessity.


Note: The second news item above was copied from the St. Louis Missouri Republican of Sept. 24th or 25th, 1844.

By the Die Vernon we learn that more trouble was brewing in the Mormon country. This was the week of the Circuit Court of Hancock Co., Illinois. -- Williams and Sharp went up to stand their trial. Two hundred armed Mormons appeared at Carthage and stated that they came by authority of Gov. Ford. There were also between one and two hundred persons present, armed and disguised as Indians, and it was anticipated that they would come in collision, and if so, much murder and bloodshed would ensue. It is scarcely credible that Governor Ford should authorize an armed body of Mormons to attend Court at Carthage -- for he might have been sure that such a proceeding would lead to violence. But his course in relation to the Mormons has been that no act can now create much surprise. -- St. Louis Era, Oct. 24.


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Mormon Vote. -- Nearly the entire vote of the Mormon city was given to Mr. Polk. The full returns give Polk 2000; Clay 5.

Notes: (forthcoming)

Unpleasant Rumor. -- The Warsaw (Illinois) Signal states that Lyman Wright's party of Mormons have emigrated to Prairie du Chien, made an attack upon a trading station, ninety miles above that place, for the purpose of robbing it, but were hotly received, and four of the gang killed. The remainder fled pursued by the exasperated French and Indians, who coming up to the Mormons, murdered all they could find, we know not how many. The rumor was generally believed at Nauvoo.


Note: (forthcoming)

Mormonism. -- The Springfield (Illinois) correspondent of the St. Louis Republican says: "It is mentioned here that Wood, who acted as one of Joe Smith's counsel at the time of his death, is endeavoring to prevail on the 'prophet's' wife to make a full exposure of Mormonism, and to allow him to publish it, and that she has consented so to do."


Note 1: The above report evidently appeared in the Missouri Republican in mid-December. It was copied into the Washington Globe, and from there, into the Jan. 15, 1845 issue of the Nauvoo Times and Seasons. The editor of the latter newspaper adds this response: "If Wood had wit enough to prevail upon the prophet's wife, what has she to expose? Booth, Howe, the Spalding story, old Brother Himes of Boston, Sunderland of Zion's Watchman, Dr. Bennett with great pomp, the Laws, Sidney Rigdon, Esq. and perhaps, an hundred others, have exposed Mormonism to an iota; and yet the Globe chimes in with a malevolent sacerdotal, phalanx to re-expose Mormonism! -- or at least, the prophet's wife, has ABOUT consented so to do, and allow Wood to publish it "When the sky falls we shall catch larks."

Note 2: James W. Wood, Esq. (sometimes printed as "Woods") was one of Joseph Smith's lawyers. Emma Smith employed his services after her husband's death, primarily to help straighten out matters of family property and finances. While it is possible that Mr. Wood suggested that Emma Smith "make a full exposure of Mormonism," it is more likely that Wood intended the threat of her publishing such a document to serve as a defense of the Smith family in their private dealings with "the Twelve," rather than as Emma's disclosure to the public at large. The Sept. 11, 1844 issue of the Warsaw Signal reported the rumor that Emma had been "ejected from the church at Nauvoo." Such rumors fed the suspicion that she might make an "exposure" of certain affairs within Mormondom. See the New York Herald of Dec. 9, 1845 for her purported letter in this regard.

Note 3: A report in the Nov. 2, 1844 issue of The Perfectionist (excerpted from a letter published in the New Bedford Bulletin) provides a similar account of Emma's loss of "confidence" in Mormonism. Her name was also linked, in a few news articles, with that of the Rigdonite John A. Forgus -- however, there is no substantial evidence to support the notion that the widow considered joining Rigdon's group. See the Warsaw Signal's issues of Sept. 11, 1844 and Oct. 9, 1844 for more on this alleged connection.

NAUVOO.

Its location; how the Mormons came by it; the dimensions of the city; all residents are not of the Church; Temple; sculptured pilasters; interior finished; brazen laver; the city will never be abandoned by its builders.

Nauvoo -- the city of the Latter Day Saints --

(under construction)




Notes: (forthcoming)

==> The Pittsburg Gazette says that city is the centre of an extensive branch of the Mormon delusion. At the head of the Branch is Sidney Rigdon, who publishes a paper which is called the Messenger and Advocate. In one of the numbers it is announced that the Mormon Church was organized in that city on the 7th of April. The imposture appears to be quite as gross and absurd as that inculcated at Nauvoo.


Notes: (forthcoming)

More Trouble with the Mormons.

Serious Disturbance. -- A correspondent of the St. Louis Republican writes from Warsaw, Illinois, under date of the 11th inst., as follows:

"On Tuesday morning last, (9th inst.,) an attack was made on a school house, in Rocky Run Precinct, by some persons unknown, but supposed to be Mormons, in which there was at the time of the attack a convention of Anti-Mormons, or old settlers of the county. The door and windows of the house were completely riddled by the shot fired by the assailants. The attacking party approached under cover of the wood and bushes, and fired one round and fled. No persons were injured, but many were, I presume, much frightened at the sudden and unexpected assault. The older settlers in that section of the county armed themselves for defence, and if they are backed by their friends in other parts of the county, blood will flow. By a messenger just in, who came to purchase lead, powder, flints, &c., I learn that four buildings were burned down last night, and one man shot, and very badly wounded, but not mortally. Yesterday thirteen wagons loaded with furniture, were seen wending their way to the City of Refuge, (Nauvoo.)

2 o'clock, P. M. -- Another messenger has just arrived from the county, and reports that large bodies of Mormons are patrolling the southern part of the county, and that a number of families from the interior are on their way to Warsaw, seeking protection. I can form no opinion what the result will be. The storm may pass over without any very serious consequence, and [sic - or?] there may be much destruction of property, and the loss of many lives, before peace and quiet shall be fully and permanently established in this unhappy county."

---

More of the Mormon Troubles.

Thirty Houses Burnt -- A Conflict Apprehended. -- We gave yesterday an account of a fresh outbreak among the Mormons and anti-Mormons in Illinois, and today have to add the following from the St. Louis Republican, dated Quincy, Adams county, Ill., Sept. 14th.

Gentlemen: We write in haste to inform you of a serious disturbance that has taken place in the upper part of this country, between a portion of the 'old citizens' of this and Hancock county, and the Mormons. -- A gentleman, belonging to the city, returned from Lima, in the vicinity of the outbreak, last evening, and informs us that on Thursday last the anti-Mormons attacked a settlement known by the name of 'Morley's Settlement,' a short distance northeast of Lima, in this county, and that up to the time he left, twenty-five or thirty houses had been burnt, together with several barns and wheat stacks. The excitement was very great, and large bodies of anti-Mormons were pouring in from the adjoining counties and from Missouri, and they were still burning and destroying property, and were determined to drive the Mormons out of the county. Our informant saw about 50 Mormons, under arms, within 2 miles from the settlement, who appeared determined to defend themselves. It was in contemplation by the anti-Mormons to attack two more settlements last evening.
                              In haste, yours, &c.

In addition to what is stated in the above letter; we learn by the Die Vernon, that a gentleman who had visited the camp of the anti-Mormons, near Lima, estimated them to be about 300 strong. He was also at the camp of the Mormons, and found them to number about one hundred. After leaving the camps, he returned to Warsaw, where he remained some time, and learned there that the Mormons had all moved into Nauvoo, and that Backenstos, the Mormon Sheriff, had ordered out the Legion, to arrest those who had commenced these disorders. If this report should be true, and the Legion turns out, a conflict is inevitable. A letter to Messrs. Matthews and Patch, of this city, on Saturday evening, from Warsaw, says that business was suspended on account of the difficulties with the Mormons, and that several houses had been burned and lives lost.


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Mormon War.

A Battle Fought and Twenty-one Persons Killed -- Another Battle Expected.

We are indebted to the Illinois State Register for an extra, dated Sunday, September 21st, containing the latest important news from Hancock:

"It appears that the Anti-Mormons continued their work of destruction until upwards of 100 houses have been consumed. Sheriff Backenstos failed in raising a posse strong enough to stop these movements without resorting to Nauvoo, owing to the fear of all well disposed persons in the country, that their own houses might be consumed. We learn that he has raised about 500 men, from Nauvoo, all well armed, with which he had dispersed the rioters, commanded by Col. Williams, at Green Plains.

In the affair no lives were lost, as the 'Anties' ran and took shelder in a cornfield. before the posse came within firing distance...

(under construction)




Notes: (forthcoming)

The Mormon War.

The Hannibal (Mo.) Journal of the 23d ult., contains the following letter, dated

                                                                      "Warsaw, Sept. 23d, 1845.
Sir: -- Gen. McAllen has ordered out his brigade to march in three days to our county. Capts. Dunn and Singleton are at Augusta with 800 troops -- Col. Williams has ordered his regiment to meet at Warsaw as soon as they can march in. A delegation from Quincy went up to Nauvoo on last night with orders to the Mormons to leave or they would bring their forces against them and compel them to leave. The Governor of Iowa has ordered out the troops in the territory, the particular object not known. We now anticipate a final settlement of our old difficulties."

In addition to the above, says the Journal, we learn that 500 troops were on their march to the seat of war, from Pike county, Ill. They started from Pitttsfield yesterday morning (24th inst.).

A correspondent of the St. Louis Reveille states that the Mormons were hauling grain and driving cattle into Nauvoo, expecting a siege; he says:

"When the Mormons find themselves surrounded they will retreat to the Temple and then if they are routed, it will only be by the hardest fighting that the country has seen for many years. The Temple commands the country for miles around. The saints have 24 pieces of artillery, (12 pounders,) plenty of ammunition, and are now laying in a stock of provisions, by plundering the old settlers, which will keep famine off for months. If a siege is commenced what will be the consequences it is impossible to foretell. The whole country may raise em masse; but can Nauvoo be subdued by a force, commanding as the Temple does so wide a range of country, and armed as the Mormons are with 24 pieces of heavy artillery and 1,000 stand of revolving rifles, besides common arms to any amount.

"The Governor, it is said, will not interfere, and if so there is no telling the result of present movements. The military of our city, who are so anxious for a brush with Mexico, had better take up their line of march for the Holy City, and try their steel and courage in the expected siege of Nauvoo."


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Mormons.

The Mormons have held a grand Convention at Nauvoo, and resolved unanimously to leave Illinois and settle at Vancouver's Island, on the Columbia river -- the wealthy agreeing to devote their means to assist the poor to emigrate with them. Elder P. P. Pratt addressed the Convention, from which we make the following extract:

"He referred to the great amount of expense and labor we have been at to purchase lands, build houses, the Temple &c. We might ask, why as it that we have been at all this outlay and expense, and then are called to leave it? He would answer, that the people of God always were required to make sacrifices and if we have a sacrifice to make, he is in favor of its being something worthy of the people of God. We do not want to leave a desolate place to be a reproach to us, but something that will be a monument of our industry & virtue. Our houses, our farms, this Temple, and all we leave will be a monument to those who may visit the place of our industry, diligence and virtue. There is no sacrifice required at the hands of the people of God, but shall be rewarded to them an hundred fold, in time or eternity."

---

FLIGHT OF THE MORMON PROPHET FROM NAUVOO. -- William Smith, of the Patriarch's family, has fled from Nauvoo. The St. Louis papers of Saturday week publish his address, "a faithful warning to the Latter Day Saints," against the unrighteousness of the Elders, who have usurped the Patriarchal chair, of which he is the only legal occupant. He councils peace, love to all men, and a restoration of confidence between the Mormons and their neighbors; proposes emigration to Oregon, and promises further exposures of the unrighteousness of the "wicked Elders." William is now in St. Louis, under the protection of some friends. His address is dated 25th October.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE MORMONS intend to sell their land and buildings at Nauvoo, including the great temple, to the Catholic Church. An agent is now in Cincinnati, endeavoring to negotiate with Bishop Purcell. It is said that terms have been agreed upon.

Notes: (forthcoming)

Letter from the Widow of the
Mormon Prophet.

The present state of affairs among the Mormons and their intentions for the future, are probably more authentically portrayed in the following letter than in any other -- coming as it does from one who has been and is so intimately connected with them. It is from Mrs. Smith, widow of the late General Joseph Smith, the Mormon Prophet, and would be read with interest were it even very lengthy. --

                                                    Nauvoo, Ill., Nov. 20, 1845.
To the Editor of the N. York Sun. --

Sir: -- I hope to be excused for addressing, for the first time in my life, a letter to the Editor of a Newspaper, and this I have been induced to do, from seeing the letters of Gen. Arlington Bennett, published in the newspapers, urging the Mormon people to remove to the Pacific Ocean, and advocating the cause of the Tyrants, who have seized on the government of the Mormon Church. This church, such as it is, was formed by my lamented husband, who was martyred for its sake, and whether true or false, has laid down his life for its belief!

I am left here, sir, with a family of children to attend to, without any means of giving them an education, for there is not a school in the city, nor is it intended there shall be any here, or at any other place, where the men, who now govern this infatuated, simple-minded people, have sway. I have not the least objection that these petty tyrants remove to California, or any other remote place, out of the world, if they wish; for they will never be of any service to the Mormons, or the human family, no matter where they go. Their object is to keep the people over whom they rule in the greatest ignorance, and most abject religious bondage, if these poor, confiding creatures remove with them, they will die in the wilderness! The laws of the United States are quite good enough for me and my children, and my settled intention is to remain where I am, take care of my property, and if I cannot educate my children here, send them to New York or New England for that purpose. Many of the Mormons will, no doubt, remove in the Spring, and many more will remain here, and nothing would give me greater pleasure than to have a mixed society in Nauvoo, as in other cities, and all exclusive religious distinctions abolished.

I must now say, that I never, for a moment, believed in what my husband called his apparitions and revelations, as I tho't him laboring under a diseased mind; yet, they may all be true, as a Prophet is seldom without credence or honor, excepting in his own family or country; but as my conviction is to the contrary, I shall educate my children in a different faith, and teach them to obey and reverence the laws and institutions of their country. Shall I not, sir, be protected in these resolutions against the annoyance of the men I now oppose, for they will no doubt seek my life?

What object Gen. Arlington Bennett has in advocating the cause of these petty tyrants, I am unable to understand, for he assured me when at my house, that he had not the remotest intention of connecting himself in any manner with them, much less removing with them to the Pacific Ocean. But this is a strange world; and I would not be surprised if they had offered to anoint and crown him King or Emperor in the West! As I have something more to say, I will take the liberty to write you another letter.
                  With great respect,
                        I am sir, your humble servant,
                                                        EMMA SMITH.

Gen. Bennett, to whom she alludes, is now in New York, and on examining the above letter pronounced it to be genuine.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Mormons.

There has been, for the last two or three years, a settlement of Mormons in the vicinity of Greencastle, Franklin county -- at the head of which is Sydney Rigdon, the Mormon Prophet. Some dissensions have lately commenced among them, and their number is gradually diminishing. It is said that the most licentious practices have been indulged in, and even their Prophet has been guilty of some acts which call for the interference of the law. If these things are as represented, where are the officers of Justice? They are delelict of duty, if they suffer such proceedings to pass unpunished.


Notes: (forthcoming)