Mormonism is said to be flourishing in Illinios. Twelve of those who profess this doctrine have been sent to England by the Society in that State. They are called "apostles" and go to preach the truth as laid down in Jo Smith's Bible. -- Dayton Jour.


Notes: (forthcoming)

LATEST  FROM  THE  MORMONS.

The Mormons have appointed twelve of their preachers, missionaries to the Holy Land. The Peoria Register contains the following account of the movements of this sect: --

(read original article in Peoria paper)

Notes: (forthcoming)

THE MORMONS. The Mormons have congregated together about the Mississippi river, in Illinois. They have built 300 house at a place called Mayson [sic], and are being increased in numbers daily. The location is on the site of the town formerly called Commerce.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THIS TOO! -- The Peoria Register, published in the vicinity of the great Mormon settlement in Illinois, states that Joseph Smith has issued an edict directing his followers to vote against Mr. Van Buren. They will do so, en masse, and in Illinois and Missouri they can poll from two to three thousand votes. The Mormons have heretofore voted for the Administration almost to a man, but the cavalier reception given to Smith when he called at the White House to ask protection for his followers against the inhuman persecutions of a portion of the people of Missouri, converted him from a friend to an enemy.


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Mormons have deputised twelve of their number (answering, we suppose, to the twelve Apostles,) to go to the Holy Land and preach the Gospel to the Jews. John Page and Orson Hyde are two of the number. The headquarters of the Mormons are now at Commerce, Illinois, on the Mississippi river. Their number is increasing.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THIS  TOO!

The Peoria Register, published in the vicinity of the great Mormon settlement in Illinois, states that Joseph Smith has issued an edict directing his followers to vote against Mr. Van Buren. They will do so, EN MASSE, and in Illinois and Missouri they can poll from two to three thousand votes. The Mormons have heretofore voted for the Administration almost to a man, but the cavalier reception given to Smith when he called at the White House to ask protection for his followers against the inhuman persecutions of a portion of the people of Missouri, converted him from a friend to an enemy.   Clev. Her.


Notes: (forthcoming)

SUMMARY.

MORMONISM EXPOSED. -- Mr. Alexander Ingram has just published a pamphlet of 43 pages with this title. It is a journal of three months residence among this singular absurd sect, by William Swartzell, sometime a deacon in the church of the Mormons. -- Presbyterian and Advocate.


Note: The title "Mormonism Exposed" was a popular one for early anti-Mormon booklets. Origen Bacheler wrote a small book by that title, which he had published in New York City in 1838. Rev. La Roy Sunderland used the same title for two totally different short volumes, one of which was printed in New York City in 1838 and the other, in the same place in 1842. Yet another booklet with this title was published by Rev. Samuel Williams and advertised for sale in Pittsburgh on May 4, 1842. -- Swartzell's 1840 Mormonism Exposed was a 48 page volume published in Pekin, Ohio. A. Ingram, Jr., who promoted Swartzell's book, was a printer and book-seller in Pittsburgh who, until 1839, was in partnership with Rev. Robert Patterson in that same business. Ingram apparently printed the pages in Pittsburgh and Swartzell assembled some of them into a booklet in Pekin.

MORMONS  AND  MORMON  TENETS.

The Mormon system has a strange mixture of truth and errr, strength and weakness.

1. One of their most powerful engines for making proselytes, is their interpretation of prophecies. Their views are not much unlike Miller's -- the world is coming to a speedy end, and the Mormons are the saints who are to reign with Christ, (Rev. xx., &c.)

2. Another -- All will be saved who have not had an opportunity to embrace Mormonism here on earth.

3. If men are good Mormons, it matters not what they do. I have in mind a most notorious drunkard received into their communion last summer.

4. They embrace substantially the views of the modern perfectionists in regard to being led by the Spirit -- they cannot do wrong. Hence it is said they are led by the Spirit to do the foulest deeds.

5. No hell except for apostate Mormons; such have forgiveness neither in this life nor in that which is to come.

Of these men, there is one pretty large class, who are honest-hearted, credulous, deceived, duped.

A second class attach themselves to the sect from interested motives -- either lazy, shiftless, worthless men, or avaricious men, who hope to make money.

A third class comprises the leaders -- wicked, designing men; men of more or less talent, and ambitious, but who can never rise to much distinction among Christians, or who have lost their standing, and who wish to regain it without repentance.

Do you inquire if their number is increasing? I have reason to believe it is -- not so much, however, in the immediate vicinity of their community, where they live in a body, as by their preachers scattered around the country. Their zeal in making proselytes is worthy of a better cause. The mass of them who believe their system are ready to make any sacrifice of time, of means, of bodily effort. In one thing, they must be praised; I have never known a people who read the Bible so much, and who could so readily quote any part of Scripture. In this respect, they shame all other denominations. But they have the elements of death in their system, and nothing but the fresh revelations of Joe Smith, Sydney Rigdon, and others, to suit the passing emergency, keeps them together. For example -- when the people began to murmur because they were almost entirely houseless, naked, and without bread, while their leaders fared sumptuously every day, Smith had the following "revelation:"  "Inasmuch as Joseph Smith, and Sydney Rigdon, &c., have been faithful, I, the Lord, do command that Joseph Smith, Sydney Rigdon, &c., live as it seemeth good unto them." -- Home Missionary.


Notes: (forthcomong)

THE  BOOK  OF  MORMON.

We republished in the Messenger, a year since, a letter purporting to be from Mrs. Spaulding, tending to show the Mormon Bible (as it is called) to be a forgery. We now, in justice to the Mormons, republish the following papers tending to show that letter to have been a forgery:

To the Editors of the New Era:

SIR: -- In your paper of the 25th inst. there is an article copied from the Boston Recorder, headed "Mormon Bible," and signed "Matilda Davidson," which, justice to our society and to the public requires me to answer, and I trust that a sense of justice will induce you sir, to give your readers both sides of the question.

I am one of the society who believe the "Book of Mormon," and as such I am assailed in the statement professing to come from Matilda Davidson.

The piece in your paper states that "Sidney Rigdon was connected in the printing office of Mr. Patterson," (in Pittsburgh) and that "this is a fact well known in that region, and as Rigdon himself has frequently stated." Here he had ample opportunity to become acquainted with Mr. Spaulding's manuscript (Romance) and to copy it if he chose." This statement is utterly and entirely false. Mr. Rigdon was never connected with the said printing establishment, either directly, or indirectly, and we defy the world to bring proof of any such connection. Now the person or persons who fabricated that falsehood, would do well to repent, and become persons of truth and veracity before they express such acute sensibility concerning the religious pretensions of others. The statement that Mr. Rigdon is one of the founders of the said religious sect is also incorrect.

The sect was founded in the state of New York while Mr. Rigdon resided in Ohio, several hundred miles distant. Mr. Rigdon embraced the doctrine through my instrumentality. I first presented the Book of Mormon to him. I stood upon the bank of the stream while he was baptized, and assisted to officiate in his ordination, and I myself was unacquainted with the system until some months after its organization, which was on the sixth of April, 1830, and I embraced it in September following.

The piece further states that "a woman preacher appointed a meeting at New Salem, Ohio, and in the meeting read and repeated copious extracts from the Book of Mormon." Now it is a fact well known, that we have not had a female preacher in our connection, for we do not believe in a female priesthood. It further says that the excitement in New Salem became so great that the inhabitants had a meeting and deputed Doctor Philaster Hulburt, one of their members, to repair to Spaulding's widow, and obtain from her the original manuscript of the Romance, &c. But the statement does not say whether he obtained the manuscript, but still leaves the impression that he did, and that it was compared with the Book of Mormon. Now whoever will read the work got up by said Hulburt entitled "Mormonism Unveiled," will find that he there states that the said manuscript of Spaulding's romance was lost and could no where be found. But the widow is here made to say that it is carefully preserved. Here seems to be some knavery or crooked work; and no wonder, for this said Hulburt is one of the most notorious rascals in the western country. He was first cut off from our society for an attempt at seduction and crime, and secondly he was laid under bonds in Geauga county, Ohio, for threatening to murder Joseph Smith, Jr., after which he laid a deep design of the Spaulding romance imposition, in which he has been backed by evil and designing men in different parts of the country, and sometimes by those who do not wish to do wrong, but who are ignorant on the subject. Now what but falsehood could be expected from such a person? Now if there is such a manuscript in existence, let it come forward at once, and not be kept in the dark. Again, if the public will be patient, they will doubtless find that the piece signed "Matilda Davidson" (Spaulding's widow) is a base fabrication by Priest Storrs of Holliston, Mass., in order to save his craft, after losing the deacon of his church, and several of its most pious and intelligent members, who left his society to embrace what they considered to be truth. At any rate, a judge of literary productions, who can swallow that piece of writing as the production of a woman in private life, can be made to believe that the Book of Mormon is a romance. For the one is as much like a romance as the other is like a woman's composition.

The production, signed Matilda Davidson, is evidently the work of a man accustomed to public address, and the Book of Mormon I know to be true, and the Spaulding story, as far as the origin of the Book of Mormon is connected with it, I know to be false.

I now leave the subject with a candid public, with a sincere desire, that those who have been deluded with such vain and foolish lies, may be undeceived.

Editors, who have given publicity to the Spaulding story, will do an act of justice by giving publicity to the foregoing.     P. P. PRATT.
N. Y. Nov. 27, 1839.

---

Copy of a letter written by Mr. John Haven of Holliston, Middlesex co. Massachusetts, to his daughter Elizabeth Haven of Quincy, Adams co., Illinois.

Your brother Jesse passed through Monson, where he saw Mrs. Davidson and her daughter, Mrs. McKinistry, and also Dr. Ely, and spent several hours with them, during which time he asked them the following questions, viz:

Did you, Mrs. Davidson, write a letter to John Storrs, giving an account of the origin of the Book of Mormon? Ans: I did not. Did you sign your name to it? Ans: I did not, neither did I ever see the letter until I saw it in the Boston Recorder: the letter was never brought to me to sign. Ques. What agency had you in having this letter sent to Mr. Storrs? Ans: D. R. Austin came to my house and asked me some questions, took some minutes on paper, and from these minutes wrote that letter. Ques. Is what is written in the letter true? Ans: In the main it is. Ques. Have you read the book of Mormon? Ans. I have read some in it; Ques. Does Mr. Spaulding's manuscript, and the Book of Mormon agree? Ans: I think some few of the names are alike. Ques. Does the manuscript describe an idolatrous or a religious people? Ans: An Idolatrous people. Ques. Where is the manuscript? Ans: Dr. P. Hurlburt came here and took it, said he would get it printed, and let me have onehalf the profits. Ques. Has Dr. P. Hurlburt got the manuscript printed? Ans: I received a letter stating it did not read as they expected, and they should not print it. Ques. How large is Mr. Spaulding's manuscript? Ans: About one third as large as the Book of Mormon. Ques. To Mrs. McKinestry -- how old were you when your father wrote the manuscript? Ans: About five years of age. Ques. Did you ever read the manuscript? Ans: When I was about twelve years old, I used to read it for diversion. Ques. Did the manuscript describe an Idolatrous or a religious people. Ans. An Idolatrous people. Ques. Do the manuscript and the Book of Mormon agree? Ans: I think some of the names agree. Ques. Are you certain that some of the names agree? Ans: I am not. Ques. Have you ever read any in the Book of Mormon? Ans: I have not. Ques. Was your name attached to that letter which was sent to Mr. John Storrs by your order? Ans: No, I never meant that my name should be there.

You see by the above questions and answers, that Mr. Austin, in his great zeal, to destroy the "Latter Day Saints," has asked Mrs. Davidson a few questions, then wrote a letter to Mr. Storrs, in his own language. I do not say that the above questions and answers, were given in the form that I have written them, but these questions were asked, and these answers given. Mrs. Davidson is about seventy years of age, and somewhat broke. This may certify that I am personally acquainted with Mr. Haven, his son and daughter, and I am satisfied they are person of truth. I have also read Mr. Haven's letter to his daughter, which has induced me to copy it for publication, and I further say, the above is a correct copy of Mr. Havens letter.
                                                A. BADLAM.


Note 1: The "republishing" done by the Editor of the Messenger undoubtedly came from the columns of the Mormons' own paper, the Nauvoo Times and Seasons of Jan. 1840. In that publication the LDS journalists provided several lines of copy, which were not copied into the Messenger, including this introduction: In this No. will be seen an article which we copy from the New York "Era," signed P. P. Pratt; it's in contradiction to the foolish simple priest fabricated tale that has been going the rounds, charging Sidney Rigdon with the crime of making the Book of Mormon, out of the romantic writings of one Solomon Spaulding &c. We can mingle our testimony with that of Elder Pratt's, we concur in his statement; we can assure the public that from our own personal knowledge, Elder Pratt has given a plain statement of facts. --- We also subjoin the copy of a letter written by one Mr. Haven from Mass. to his daughter in Quincy, Ill. which shows to a demonstration, that Mrs. Davidson did not write the letter, and that it was written, signed and circulated without her knowledge. Consequently it was got up by priests, upon her credit; the reason for getting it up, we think is obvious, for fair arguments, & every other means had failed to put down the truth, and this was the last resort; this having failed, we think both priests and people will hereafter sit in silence upon this subject...

Note 2: The Cincinnati Western Messenger is the only newspaper, other than Mormon periodicals, that is known to have published the communication from Elder Alexander Badlam, to the Illinois Quincy Whig, and first published in the latter paper on Nov. 16, 1839. It should be noted that Elder Badlam was a high ranking LDS official in Illinois and later a member of the Mormons' secret "Council of Fifty." He undoubtedly chose to publish Jesse Haven's 1839 report in that particular western Illinois newspaper, in order to calm the potential fears of the Mormons then congregating there, regarding published reports stating that Solomon Spalding's widow had written the damning "letter" printed in the Apr. 19, 1839 issue of the Boston Recorder, (accusing LDS leaders of having fabricated the Book of Mormon). Of course the widow did not write the exact text of the "letter;" she never claimed to have reviewed and signed the final draft of the statement, only to approving the notes from which it was developed. As the Boston Recorder's correspondent explained, on June 28, 1841: "It is very true Mrs. Davidson did not write a letter to me... But this she did do... she did sign her name to the original copy as prepared from her statement by Mr. Austin. This he told me last week."

Note 3: It should also be noted here that Jesse Haven, who interviewed Spalding's widow, was a Mormon Elder -- a missionary to England -- who was then operating under the general authority of Apostle Parley P. Pratt, the highest Mormon official in New York and New England. Pratt evidently sent Haven, "under cover," to interview the widow at her home in Monson, Massachusetts. Also, Elder Haven, as a Mormon missionary, functioned under the ultimate direction of Brigham Young, President of the LDS Quorum of Twelve. Haven was a first cousin of Brigham Young and would have obeyed orders given by Young and Pratt without question. The widow's grandson offered this information in 1877: "Rev. Mr. Spaulding's widow... live[ed] with her daughter at Monson many years ago, bringing the manuscript of his romance with her. She died some twenty-five years ago, but before her death a plausible young man from Boston came to Monson to see [her]... he claimed to represent some Christian people who wanted to expose Mormonism... the family have always considered that the bland young gentleman was an agent of Brigham Young's to destroy the convicting evidence that Joe Smith's Mormon Bible was of earthly origin." This 1877 information was published in a reporter's paraphrase and was intermingled with the account of how D. P. Hurlbut had visited with the same widow, also at Monson, six years earlier. However, after the details of the 1839 visit of Elder Haven are extracted from the account of the 1833 visit, and matched with LDS sources, it may be clearly seen that Haven obtained his information under false pretenses (not divulging his Mormon affiliations and connections). Elder Haven and/or Elder Badham, edited the facts obtained during Haven's long interview in such a way so as to provide just a few lines of "evidence," documenting the fact that Spalding's widow did not write the 1839 "letter." This single fact the Mormons advertised far and wide. However, the details of the circumstances and actions by which they obtain that information, they did not widely advertise until the widow was practically on her death-bed. There is no indication that the alibi that Elder Alexander Badham helped provide in 1839 was circulated in the east until its appearance in a 1841 LDS pamphlet, which the aged and "somewhat broke" widow (who died c. 1844) probably never had an opportunity to read nor respond to.

OUTRAGE. -- The Quincy Illinois Whig gives an account of a barbarous outrage committed on four citizens of the Mormon persuasion by some people from Tully, Missouri...

(read original article in Quincy paper)

Notes: (forthcoming)

THE OTHER SIDE OF THE QUESTION. -- The reported lynching of Mormons is denied in a long communication in the Quincy (Illinois) Whig, signed by eighteen citizens of Tully, Missouri, and, which says the citizens of Tully have been misrepresented, and pronounce the statements made at the meeting at Nauvoo, a tissue of vile slander and gross falsehoods. They accuse the Mormons of a number of depredations, and say that Smith, the "Holy Prophet," in presence of some of the citizens, justified the plunderers in their nefarious proceedings, and said they would continue them till they had recompensed themselves for their Missouri difficulties to the amount of $3,000,000.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE MORMONS. -- A keel boat arrived at this city on Sunday last with about thirty of this new sect. We understand they belong to a party of 36, who left the vicinity of Preston, England, about two months since, although the company separated at Pittsburg, they are all destined for the head quarters of the Mormons, at Nauvoo, adjoining Commerce, Illinois. These were all good looking farmers and mechanics, and we are told that another party is on the way from England, destined to the same point.

This sect is rapidly on the increase. Their church in England comprises between 2 and 3000 members, mostly in Lancashire, they have also regularly organized societies in Liverpool, Edinburgh, Birmingham, Manchester, &c. -- About 100 Methodist preachers in England have embraced this faith. In this country there are about 2300 at Nauvoo, Ill., and about 2000 in Lee county, in Iowa, on the opposite side of the Mississippi. They have churches in Quincy, Springfield, Jacksonville, and various other parts of Illinois. -- There is a church of about 100 members at Dayton, Ohio, and they intend to establish one in this city shortly, eight persons were baptized by them, in the river in front of this city, last Sunday and Monday. With the exception of Missouri, Georgia, Alabama, and Louisiana, they have regularly organized churches in every State in the Union; those at Philadelphia and New York comprise each about 300 members. They publish a monthly Journal in Manchester, England, and another at Nauvoo, Illinois. The inhuman persecutions they suffered in Missouri in the winter and spring of 1839, were a disgrace to the state and to the benevolent spirit of the age. "To their own Master they stand or fall." -- Cincinnati Chron.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE MORMONS. -- The Quincy Whig states that Gov. Boggs has agreed to comply with the requisition of Gov. Carlin, of Illinois, for the delivery of two persons concerned in outrages upon certain Mormon citizens of Illinois, at Tully; And that in like manner, Gov. Boggs has demanded, and Gov. Carlin has agreed to deliver up Joseph Smith, Jr., and Sidney Rigdon, as runaway criminals from Missouri.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Jacksonville, (Illinois,) Sept. 28.            

The cause of Harrison and reform goes bravely on in Illinois.... There are in this State about 2,500 Mormon voters, and I was told yesterday by a respectable member of that sect that they would go for Old Tip [Harrison] with but very few exceptions. In August, Gov. Carlin got the majority of these in the Adams and Hancock counties to vote for Locos for the Legislature; since which time he has become obnoxious to them by endeavoring to deliver two of their leaders, Rigdon and Smith, over to the Van Buren Governor of Missouri, in accordance with a demand from the Governor of the State, the scene of their persecution and expulsion. They are pretty generally apprized of the fact that the President, whom they to a man supported, refused to give their petitioners for redress an audience, because, forsooth, his democratic friends in Missouri would turn against him! -- a beautiful commentary upon equal rights, emanating, too, from a democratic President!


Notes: (forthcoming)

Mormons. -- The St. Louis Bulletin says -- "By a gentleman from the upper country we are informed that an officer had arrived at Tully, from Jefferson City, to seize those who had been engaged in kidnapping the Mormons, but when be arrived he found them engaged at a game of quoits, on an island m the Mississippi beyond his jurisdiction. He also informs us that the officers of Illinois had not succeeded in seizing Joe Smith and Sydney Rigdon."


Notes: (forthcoming)

The  Mormons.

We have received a copy of the newspaper printed by this sect, containing the minutes of their semi-annual Conference, held at Nauvoo, Illinois, on the 3d of October. The large number of five thousand was present, including elders and preachers. Nearly one hundred new converts were baptized. The Mormons appear to be in much better condition than at any previous time. They are industrious, frugal and prosperous. Their brethren from England were beginning to arrive among them. -- Cin. Gaz.


Notes: (forthcoming)

From the Alexandria Gazette.

A Glance at the Mormons.

Since the Mormons were expelled from the State of Missouri, they have purchased the town of Commerce, a situation of surpassing beauty, at the head of the lower rapids, on the Illinois shore of the upper Mississippi river. The name of the place they recently changed to Nauvoo, the Hebrew term for Fair or Beautiful. Around this place, as their centre, they are daily gathering from almost every quarter: and several hundred new houses, created within the last few months; attest to the passing traveller the energy, industry, and self-denial with which the community is imbued. They have also obtained possession of extensive lands on the opposite side of the river, in that charming portion of Iowa Territory, known as the 'Half Breed Reservation;' and there, upon the rolling and fertile prairies, they are rapidly selecting their homes and opening their farms. As the traveller now passes through those natural parks and fields of flowers, which the hand of the Creator seems to have originally planted there for the inspection of his own eye, he beholds their cabins dotted down in the most enchanting perspective, either on the borders of the timber, or beside the springs and streams of living water, which are interspersed on every hand.

Nor are they unmindful of their interests abroad, while they are thus accomplishing so much at home. No sect, with equal means, has probably ever suffered and achieved more in so short a time. Their elders have not only been commissioned and sent forth to every part of our own country, but they have left their families and friends behind them, and gone to Europe, and even to the Holy Land, to reveal the wonders of the "new and everlasting covenant;" and to preach "the dispensation of the fulness of times." They doubt not but that they shall be endued, when necessary, with power from on high to proclaim to all the nations of the earth in their own tongues, the wonderful works of God.

The signal success which every where attends their exertions, proves how well their religious system is adapted to give expression to the various forms of enthusiasm that pervade the religious sentiment of the day. Retaining many truths which are held in common by different denominations of Christians and covering their own absurdities with imposing forms and lofty pretensions, their system opens a winning asylum for all the disaffected or dissatisfied of other persuasions, and much that is congenial to almost every shade of erratic or radical religious character. As an illustration of this, it is stated, in the last number of their own journal, called "Times and seasons," that, on a single occasion in England, one of their elders lately baptized, among others, no less than thirteen preachers of one denomination of Christians.

The name of Mormon they disclaim, and affirm that it was given to them by their enemies. They call themselves "The Church of Jesus Christ, of Latter Day Saints," and number, among their chief ecclesiastical dignitaries, a prophet, patriarch, and a train of high priest[s], bishops, and elders. They are understood to disallow the truth and validity of other churches, and to believe that their own ecclesiastical constitution entitles them to expect the enjoyment of all other gifts and blessings of the church in ancient times. They teach that all who are baptized by immersion and under proper authority, are legally entitled to the remission of their sins, and the gift of the Holy Ghost. Among other religious exercises, they meet together to testify, to prophecy, to speak with tongues to interpret, and to relate their visions and revelations, and, in short, to exercise all the gifts of God, as set in order among the ancient churches. They believe that the restoration of Israel to Palestine, the rebuilding of Jerusalem, and the second advent of the Messiah are near at hand, -- and the dreadful calamities which have recently befallen some of the cities of our land, are set down upon their records as prophetic signs of the second coming of the Son of Man in the clouds of Heaven to open their millennial era.

As to the 'Book of Mormon,' while they place implicit confidence in its truth, they deny that it is a new Bible, to exclude the old, but a historical and religious record, written in ancient times, by a branch of the house of Israel that peopled America, from whom the Indians descended. -- The metallic plates, on which these records was engraved, lay deposited for many centuries in the earth, until at length, they were discovered and translated by Joseph Smith Jr. and found, not only to corroborate and confirm the truth of holy writ, but also to open the events of ancient America, as far back at least as the flood. -- They believe that this book pours the light of noonday upon the history of a nation, whose mounds and cities, and fortifications, still repose, in grand but melancholy ruins, upon the bosom of the western prairies; and the reason that it is not more generally received is the same that operated to prevent the reception of the Gospel, in the early ages of Christianity.

It was a beautiful morning towards the close of April last, when the writer of the foregoing sketch, accompanied by, a friend, crossed the Mississippi River, from Montrose, to pay a visit to the prophet. As we approached his house, we saw him ride up and alight from his beautiful horse; and handing the bridle to one of his followers in attendance, he waited in front of his gate to receive us. A number of principal men of the place soon collected around, apparently anxious to hear the words which fell from his lips. His bearing towards them was like one who has authority; and the deference which they paid him convinced us that his dominion was deeply seated in the empire of their consciences. To our minds, profound knowledge of human nature had evidently taught him that, of all principles, the most omnipotent is the religious principle, and to govern men of certain classes, it is only necessary to control their religious sentiments.

After he had shown us the fine grounds around his dwelling; he conducted us, at our request, to an upper room, where he drew aside the curtains of a case, and showed us several Egyptian Mummies, which we were told that the church had purchased, at his suggestion, some time before, for a large sum of money.

The embalmed body that stands near the center of the case, said he, is one of the Pharaohs, who sat on the throne of Egypt, and the female figure by it was probably one of the daughters.

It may have been the Princess Thermutis, I replied, "the same that rescued Moses from the waters of the Nile.

It is not improbable, answered the prophet, but my time has not yet allowed fully to examine and decide that point. Do you understand the Hebrew language, said he, raising his hand to the top of the case, and taking down a small Hebrew grammar of Rabbi Seixas?

That language has not altogether escaped my attention, was the reply.

He then walked to a secretary, on the opposite side of the room, and drew out several frames, covered with glass, under which were numerous fragments of Egyptian papyrus, on which, as usual, a great variety of hieroglyphical characters had been imprinted.

These ancient records, said he, throw great light on the subject of Christianity. They have been unrolled and preserved with great labor and care. My time has been hitherto too much taken up to translate the whole of them, but I will show you how I interpret certain parts. There, said he, pointing to a particular character, that is the signature of the patriarch Abraham.

It is indeed a most interesting autograph, I replied, and doubtless the only one extant. What an ornament it would be to have these ancient manuscripts handsomely set, in appropriate frames, and hung up around the walls of the temple which you are about to erect at this place.

Yes, replied the Prophet, and the translation hung up with them.

Thinking this a proper time to propose a few inquiries relative to some of his peculiar tenets, I observed that it was commonly reported of him, that he believed in the personal reign of the Messiah upon earth, during the millenial era.

I believe in no such thing, was his reply. At the opening of that period, I believe that Christ will descend; but will immediately return again to Heaven. Some of our elders, he continued, before I have found time to instruct them better, have unadvisedly propagated some such opinions; but I tell my people that it is absurd to suppose that Christ "will jump out of the frying pan into the fire." He is in a good place now, and it is not to be supposed that he will exchange it for a bad one.


Note: The above reprint of David W. Kilbourne's letter terminates well before the end of its original publication in the Alexandria Gazette. The Oct. 17, 1840 Quincy Whig reprinted the complete text, as did the Philadelphia National Gazette of July 16, 1840. See notes attached to the latter clipping, for information on Mr. Kilbourne and the Rev. Henry Caswall.

THE MORMONS. -- This sect held a semi-annual conference at Nauvoo, Hancock Co., Ill, on the 31 October. The large number of 5,000 was present, including elders and preachers. About 100 were baptized. The church, (says a corresponddent of the Peoria Register,) seems to be in a much more prosperous condition than at any former time. Several families have arrived from England, belonging to the church. The sect has been very industrious in building houses and raising provisions. Four or five stores, a saw mill and two water mills, have recently been erected; and a large stone meeting-house will soon be commenced. -- St. Louis Rep.


Notes: (forthcoming)

From the New Yorker.
THE BOOK OF MORMON.

One of the greatest literary curiosities of the day, is the much abused "Book of Mormon." That a work of the kind should be planned, executed and given to the scrutiny of the world by an illiterate young man of twenty -- that it should gain numerous and devoted partisans, here and in Europe, and that it should agitate a whole State to such a degree that law, justice and humanity were set aside to make a war of extermination on the new sect, seems scarcely credible in the nineteenth century, and under this liberal government; yet such is the fact.

The believers in the Book of Mormon now number well nigh 50,000 souls in America, to say nothing of numerous congregations in Great Britain. They style themselves Latter-Day Saints, as it is a prominent point in their faith that the world is soon to experience a great and final change. -- They believe, and insist upon believing, literally, the Old and New Testament; but they also hold that there are various otherinspired writings, which, in due season, will be brought to light. Some of these (the Book of Mormon for example) are even now appearing, after having been lost for ages. -- They think that in the present generation will be witnessed the final gathering together of all the true followers of Christ into one fold of peace and purity -- in other words, that the Millennium is near. Setting aside the near approach of the Millennium and the Book of Mormon, they resemble in faith and discipline the Methodists, and their meetings are marked by the fervid simplicity that characterizes that body of Christians. It is in believing the Book of Mormon inspired that the chief difference consists; but it must be admitted that this is an important distinction.

This is their own declaration of faith in that point: A young man named Joseph Smith, in the western part of New-York, guided, as he says, by Divine Inspiration, found, in 1830, a kind of stone chest or vault containing a number of thin plates of gold held together by a ring, on which they were all strung, and engraved with unknown characters. The characters the Mormons believe to be the ancient Egyptian, and that Smith was enabled by inspiration to translate them -- in part only, however, for the plates are not entirely given in English. This translation is the Book of Mormon, and so far it is a faint and distant parallel of the Koran. In much the same way Mahomet presented his code of religion to his followers, and on that authority the sceptre-sword of Islamism now sways the richest and widest realms that ever bowed to one faith. But the Mormons have a very different career before them: their faith is opposed to all violence, and, from the nature of their peculiar doctrines, they must soon die of themselves if they are wrong. If the appointed signs that are to announce the approach of the Millennium do not take place immediately, the Latter-Day Saints must, by their own showing, be mistaken, and their faith falls quietly to the ground. So, to persecute them merely for opinion's sake is as useless as it would be unjust and impolitic.

The Book of Mormon purports to be a history of a portion of the Children of Israel, who found their way to this Continent after the first destruction of Jerusalem. It is continued from generation to generation by a succession of prophets, and gives in different books an account of the wars and alliances among the various branches of the Lost Nation. The Golden Book is an abridgment by Mormon, the last of the prophets,of all the works of his predecessors.

The style is a close imitation of the scriptural, and is remarkably free from any allusions that might betray a knowledge of the present political or social state of the world. -- The writer lives in the whole strength of his imagination in the age he portrays. It is difficult to imagine a more difficult literary task than to write what may be termed a continuation of the Scriptures, that should not only avoid all collision with the authentic and sacred word, but even fill up many chasms that now seem to exist, and thus receive and lend confirmation in almost every book.

To establish a plausibly-sustained theory that the aborigines of our Continent are descendants of Israel without committing himself by any assertion or description that could be contradicted, shews a degree of talent and research that in an uneducated youth of twenty is almost a miracle in itself.

A copy of the characters on some of the golden leaves was transmitted to a learned gentleman of this city, who of course was unable to decipher them, but thought they bore a resemblance to the ancient Egyptian character.

If on comparison it appears that these characters are similar to those recently discovered on those ruins in Central America which have attracted so much attention lately, and which are decidedly of Egyptian architecture, it will make a strong point for Smith. It will tend to prove that the plates are genuine, even if it does not establish the truth of his inspiration, or the fidelity of his translation.

In any case our Constitution throws its protecting aegis over every religious doctrine. If the Mormons have violated the law, let the law deal with the criminals; but let not a mere opinion, however absurd and delusive it may be, call forth a spirit of persecution. Persecution, harsh daughter of Cruelty and Ignorance, can never find a home in a heart truly republican. Opinion is a household god, and in this land her shrine is inviolate. -- JOSEPHINE.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE MORMONS. -- A Mormon newspaper entitled "Times and Seasons," has been started at Nauvoo, Illinois. The first number, according to the Newark Advertiser, gives a history of the 'Rise of the Church,' (the true church, of course,) by which it appears that the Mormons recognize the entire Scriptures, including an "infinite atonement" by the Redeemer. Another article on the "Gospel" interprets the passage giving the Apostles the power of miracles, speaking in unknown tongues, &c., literally, and as applicable at this day. -- The Mormons have a regular Priesthood, "elders," "priests," &c., and "Aaronic" order, &c. It appears that they have numerous societies in various parts, the following being identically mentioned; Philadelphia, 255 members; Brooklyn, Long Island, 19; Monmouth county, New Jersey, 35; Lancaster county, Pennsylvania, 84; New York, 110; Hempstead, Long Island, 50; Chester county, Pennsylvania, 135; New Jersey, 116; Oneida, New York, 80.

At a recent meeting in Preston, England, 1800 members were present. Believing that the time for the "gathering" has arrived they have selected several points in the West for the home of the Latter Day Saints. The settlement at Nauvoo is said to be flourishing, and they have put down another "stake" at Ramous, in the same State. The Book of Mormon is one of the inspired supplements to the Scriptures, which, as they aver, were promised.


Notes: (forthcoming)

TIMES AND SEASONS. -- Such is the title of a paper published semi-monthly by the Mormons at their new city of Nauvoo, Ill. To the honor of the people of the State of Illinois be it said, this singular sect are permitted to plant their "stakes" in peace within her borders, and to enjoy that security of life, liberty and property vouchsafed by law to others. The sect is rapidly increasing in Illinois and elsewhere. We copy a singular notice from the last "Times and Seasons." It reads:

"Elders Orson Hyde and John E. Page are informed, that the Lord is not well pleased with them in consequence of delaying their mission, (Elder John E. Page in particular,) and they are required by the First Presidency to hasten their journey towards their destination."


Notes: (forthcoming)

From the Baptist Register.

Rome, New York, January ?, 1841.          

... [The origin of Mormonism... Joseph Smith was] a vain ignorant young man, guilty of lying, swearing, and drunkenness. He presumptuously claimed to be as holy as the Lord Jesus Christ, and to have such influence with the Supreme Being that he had only to ask him to destroy an enemy, and he would instantly send him to hell. The following declaration is sufficient to fill the mind with horror at his impiety...

[Addressing me, after I had exposed his villainy], he said, "I feel constrained to ask God not to permit me to ask him to damn you. If I should ask him, he would send you to hell in the twinkling of an eye." ...

Smith pretends that he could not write. But in the deposition of Mr. Hale, on one occasion, Smith and Harris each had a written piece of paper which they were comparing.

Although it may not be possible to prove that any one acted in concert with Smith, in getting up the Book of Mormon, yet there is positive proof that he is assisted in the production of other books of a similar character. His assistant is Sidney Rigdon. It is publicly known that Rigdon embraced Mormonism soon after the Book of Mormon was published. And for months before the public had the least intimation of the kind, Rigdon, then living in Ohio, was giving hints of something -- a man in New York was going to do some great thing -- and some great event would soon come to pass. Rigdon at this time was a Campbellite preacher. Now, how did he know this? Why those half-expressed insinuations? Did he have the same revelation at the same time with Smith?

If so, then the angel deceived Smith, for he told him, that he alone had been chosen in the councils of eternity to bring the hidden book to light. So Smith told the writer, and any one who is acquainted with the sentiments of A. Campbell, will discover his peculiarity on the subject of baptism, on reading the Book of Mormon. In view of the similarity between Campbellism and Mormonism, Smith said to Rigdon, in the presence of the writer, with a half-expressed smile, "Thou art to me what John was to Christ."

The writer was never a Mormon; he could not be one, even if he desired it. To risk his eternal all, even the salvation of his soul, on the word of one man, and that fraught with suspicion, is more than he is prepared to do. The revelations brought to light, since the publication of the Book of Mormon, are equally valid. In regard to them, some are self-contradictory, and some contradict each other. Smith had a revelation at one time, that the city New Jerusalem should be located in Kirkland, Ohio, the residence of Rigdon. On the strength of which, the temple was there built. The writer heard this revelation read. But a second revelation informed the Mormons that the location should be in the town of Independence, county of Jackson, and State of Missouri. They did not succeed in their location in that State. And a kind revelation has now congregated them at [Nauvoo] in the State of Illinois. Smith, by revelation, ascertained that the ten lost tribes lived at the North Pole, or between the Pole and the mountains of ice on this side, which mountains were soon to melt away, and the tribes return to Jerusalem. But a second revelation places them much farther from us than the North Pole. He says that after the dispersion of the ten tribes, this planet earth, broke in twain, and while one part remained as it was before the separation, the other part with the ten tribes on it, sailed off into space. And in order to restore them to Jerusalem, the half planet will come in contact with its other half, the earth, and set both on fire.

It is not my design to animadvert this system in this number, but only to state such facts as the reader ought to know. In reading the book of Mormon, it is perceptible that the writer placed himself, in his imagination, far back into antiquity, and wrote as though he was actually there. But with all his care, sometimes he forgot himself, and wrote it modern diction. To name one instance is sufficient for our present purpose. It is said in the Book of Mormon, that after Christ ascended to heaven from Jerusalem, he again descended on to this continent, and showed himself to his people, the Nephites. That he chose twelve apostles here and instituted baptism among them. The second or third day, after which, he gives the Nephites his charge, tells them how to immerse, and that there shall be no more disputations among them, as there has hitherto been. The writer here forgot himself; his eye must have passed over the baptismal controversy, from the third to the nineteenth century. It appears to the writer, that all which is necessary to keep any man of common sense, from such delusion and fanaticism, is simple investigation.

The writer hopes that men will regard the apostolic admonition, "Prove all things." Believe nothing without evidence. How important! To be deceived, believe in deception, and all the while suppose it to be divine revelation -- this, all this can be avoided by taking nothing on trust. I entreat you never, no never, take anything on trust...

There are three most essential parts which compose the Mormon system; which are its revelations, doctrines, and practices. An exhibition of these will show its systematic formation. The Book of Mormon professes to be a record of the Nephites and Lamanites, the literal descendants of Joseph, the son of Jacob, who emigrated to this continent six hundred years before Christ; and also of the Jeredites, who found America, previous to the building of Babel, but were destroyed before the migration of the Nephites. The latter direct from Jerusalem, and the former from the land of Shinar. Thus we have a history of this continent for about three thousand years. Who can prove this revealed history; or rather, who call deny it?

The position is like this, I say to my neighbour, Sir, the moon is inhabited, now prove it is not, if you can. And this position is a fair sample of the revelations in the Book of Mormon. Smith and Rigdon have re-modeled the whole Bible, in order to conform it to the Book of Mormon. They have left out that which they supposed was added, ad added that which they supposed was left out. This work is not, or was not to be, seen by the profane; therefore, it has not been submitted to the pen of the critic, nor the pen of the historian.

In the formation of the system, the Book of Mormon is put forth as a feeler; and in connection with this, both the Old and New Testament must be transformed for the purpose of accomplishing another object -- the overthrow of Christianity in its present form. The argument is this, the Bible is not sufficient to accomplish the purposes of God. Smith told the writer that he knew all things from eternity to eternity, and that he should live to reveal it to all mankind. Or else, said he, the knowledge of the Lord can never cover the earth as the waters do the great deep, Hence, also, seventy Mormon books are in a state of progress, and forthcoming. Smith is called greater than Moses, or like unto him, an apostle, next to Jesus Christ, and chosen in the council of eternity. This infinite knowledge of Smith, is constantly forming the confidence of his followers, and feeds the flame of this dark fanaticism. There is a similarity between those revelations and the Book of Mormon. It is difficult to refute them, because they refute themselves, many of them at least. It is difficult to prove to a man a self-evident truth, or disprove a self-evident contradiction. One or two specimens will answer my present purpose:
I, Jesus Christ, to the church. Verily, verily I say unto you, I am Alpha and Omega, the first and the last, the Almighty. Verily I say unto you, my purposes are not frustrated, and my course is one eternal round. Verily, verity I say unto you, there is no beginning nor end to my works."

It is revealed, that the earth was never created, nor man who inhabits it, both are self-existent. Gen. iv. 17: "'And Cain knew his wife, and she conceived and bare Enoch: and he (Cain) builded a city, and called the name of the city after the name of his son, Enoch."

Smith gave a revelation, and not distinguishing between Enoch, the son of Cain, and Enoch who walked with God, said that both Enoch and his city were translated, which city was now the New Jerusalem, which would soon come down from God out of heaven. But a subsequent revelation authorizes the Mormons themselves to build the city, New Jerusalem, on this continent. Then, what has become of the city of Enoch? Many more samples might be given, but will not the above be sufficient to satisfy any man who possesses a healthy state of mind, and conforms his moral feelings to the perfections of God? The doctrines of which this system is composed, might be termed, gleanings of insanity. A change of heart, and consequently of moral character, are not recognized in it, any further than this; both are identified in the act of baptism. Baptism is a saving ordinance. All will be lost, who do not receive it from those whom the system has authorized to give it, The system combines a Priesthood, compared with which, that of Rome, with all its Jesuitism, is but a shadow. A triune Priesthood, embracing that of Melchisedec, Aaronical, and the Apostolical. This is a different priesthood from any that ever existed before on the earth. This is not understood by many except the Mormons, and it has filled them with an ardour that glows with uncontrollable fanaticism. Christ was made Priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec. What was that order? Melchisedec was both king and priest. So is Christ the one Mediator. The Mormons have received this order; they have united the sceptre with the altar, and Smith, or some one else, is elevated to kingly power, which power, however, is not hereditary, but kings are to be elected by the people. No baptism is valid but by this priesthood. "Verily, verily, I say unto you, though a man has been baptised ninety and nine times, it shall avail him nothing," -- of course, those who unite with them, renounce their former baptism. By this doctrine, the Mormon priesthood, like that of Rome, divides the mediatorial office of the Son of God. And also, like that church, has fixed three states for mankind. One, a state of happiness, celestial -- one, a state of misery, terrestrial -- and one, a state of neither happiness nor misery, terrestrial. And yet, in the end, all men are to be restored to happiness, with a single exception -- that is, the apostate Mormons -- for them there is no chance -- their hell will be endless.

The information of the writer was obtained from the Mormon apostles themselves. Here are seen the different motives, which are designed to allure to their system. Falling from grace, for the Methodist; immersion, for the Baptist; a priesthood, for the Episcopalians and Catholics and final restoration for the Universalists! and these motives are handled with a skill which would baffle the cunning of a Jesuit. They say that the kingdom of God became extinct in the fourth century, and for fourteen hundred years Christianity has been swept from the earth, and just now restored to them by the revelation of the Book of Mormon.

They profess to have all the gifts, both ordinary and extraordinary, as did the church in the days of the apostles. But their miraculous power is to be witnessed only by the believers, consequently those who embrace the system must take it on trust. Said an apostle to the writer, "I know that you do not believe as we do, but I have authority to say to you, sir, if you will unite with us, we will perfectly satisfy you that we are right." I answered him thus, sir, if I was going to sell you a farm, I would trust you, but in things wherein my soul is concerned, I can take nothing on trust. No evidence of a moral character is presented to prove the validity of the system, nothing more than the word of a Mormon; you must take it on trust, believe the word of Joseph Smith, or be damned.

The priesthood profess to do miracles, to heal the sick with chrism, to remit or retain sin, to adjudge or doom to heaven or hell, to prophesy, to foretell deaths, judgments, and calamities which will happen to those whom they denounce, and to consign men over to perdition. The writer came very near this once, from the hands of Smith himself. "I feel constrained, sir," said he, ' to ask God not to permit me to ask him to damn you. If I should ask him, he would send you to hell in the twinkling of an eye!"

They say the church was not built on Christ, nor Peter, but on revelation. At a certain time, a revelation came to the writer, from the mouth of a Mormon, in the name of the Lord, and declared in the most solemn manner to be a revelation, that if he left his residence, he would be brought back a dead man. He went and came, free from danger. Now if the church be built on revelation, and such revelation, one would think that a very limited power would prevail against it. With a mind unbiased the writer is disposed to receive any revelation from heaven. But with regard to Mormon revelation, after the most impartial investigation, the conviction fully rests on his mind, that the whole system is imposture. As a moral being, responsible to God, man is under no obligation to believe without evidence, and that evidence must be without suspicion, and of a moral character. Faith rests on evidence, "the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen." If it be anything short of this, it is presumption, and men are guilty for being presumptuous. The simple and credulous may come in contact with this system, and being ignorant of its devices, be swallowed up in its vortex.

The Mormon effort may succeed, to some extent. Many are embracing the system in the United States and Canada. And even on the Islands of Great Britain, and Ireland, thousands have received it. Already the Mormon priesthood has its eye on the continent of Europe; France and Germany are to be the field of its operation. These associates of Gog and Magog, may be congregated at the holy city, New Jerusalem, not to destroy it, but to inhabit it. And in my next number, the reader will accompany me there, in order to examine the spirit by which they are actuated. To those who wish to understand the whole minutia of the Mormon revelations, doctrines and practices, Are recommended to their notice Mr. Haining's lectures on this subject, recently published in a cheap pamphlet form.

The writer on one occasion, queried with Smith about the ministry of the angel; and said to him, how do you know that you have not been imposed upon by the Devil -- he can himself into an angel of light? "Why!" said he, "you ask more of me than God does -- I can see your heart, you are in the gall of bitterness and bonds of iniquity -- you will go to hell." The manner of this denunciation was the most vindictive and unlovely.

At the same interview, Smith said to Rigdon, "There is no other way then to break men down at once." I ask every man, who is inclined to believe Mormonism, is this the temper of the heavenly dove, who kindly reproves our wrongs, and witnesses to us, "son or daughter, thy sins are forgiven thee!" who can mistake his influence, or resist his love?

This unlovely spirit of Mormonism, is diffused by its priesthood to every Mormon. It is the same by which Mahommed actuated his primitive followers -- the spirit of Mohmamedanism. It is not the design of the writer to censure, nor retaliate, But it is his design to try this spirit of the Mormon system, and know it, by its manner. It is the spirit of strife and malevolence. It calls for fire from heaven against its opponents, and those who possess it, suppose that it is divine influence.

A brother, whom the writer trusts he was instrumental in saving from the delusion, in his exposition of it, said, "It is an invisible spirit -- a spirit, which is not confined to the Mormon systems exclusively. The Perfectionists of the Antinomian school, and the Non-resistants of New England States have the same spirit, The devil knows that his time is short; he is exasperated at the success of the gospel in heathen lands, and therefore has put forth his mightiest efforts, to corrupt it at home, by new forms and by a new spirit, or an old spirit revived." When Mohammed persuaded the Arabs to his religion, their imaginations and passions were alternately excited by promises and threats: to the believer, paradise; to the unbeliever, collars, chains, and torments, unutterable. "Who," said Mohammed, "will be my vizier, and become my brother, my vicar, and ambassador?" "I," said Ali, "O prophet, will obey your commands. Whosoever dares oppose you, I will tear out his eyes, dash out his teeth, and rip open his body." The same spirit is seen in the Mormon priesthood.

Conversing, recently with a Mormon family, the writer in the most kind spirit, told them it was his conviction that it was all imposture. Said a priest, who was present, "You will go to hell." Mohammed enforced his religion by the sword. And the writer knows the responsibility, both to the public and [to] Mormons, which he incurs, when he states that the system of Smith and Rigdon, is a bloody fanaticism. The writer, when he first read the Book of Mormon, ten years ago, supposed that any man would infer the same. -- Nephi, if the book be true, was constrained by the Holy Spirit, to cut off the head of Laban, with his sword, while Laban was drunk, in the streets of Jerusalem. The whole community ought to be informed of the designs of the moving power of this fatal delusion.

Smith states, that he found the sword with which Nephi struck off the head of old Laban, with the box of gold plates, and that sword should be exhibited to the world. How? And when?

The argument is this: The Indians are the Lamanites, and this is the land of their inheritance, as Palestine is that of the Jews. This good land, more precious than all others, was given to the Nephites, in an everlasting covenant. And in the Book of Mormon, all their sufferings, all the abuse heaped upon them by the Gentiles on the continent, and their dwindling in unbelief, are all the subjects of prophecy. The reader would obtain a very correct history of the present state of the Indians by reading that book. But the tables are to be turned, and the Gentiles are to be cut off, all of them, every man, woman, and child, who do not embrace their system. Yes, Mormonism is to triumph, and possess this goodly land.

There is one prediction to this amount, coming from Christ himself: "O ye Gentiles, on this continent, repent and come unto me, that ye may be numbered with my people, O house of Israel, else my people, O house of Israel, shall go through and tread you down, as the lion doth his prey." This is the constant theme of the Mormon priesthood. It is declared in the Book of Mormon, that the Indians are the descendants of Joseph, in the tribe of Manesseh. And they are to be converted by the Book of Mormon, and congregated with the Mormons in the holy city, New Jerusalem. After which, we Gentiles, are to be destroyed. The sword may be unsheathed by an infuriated fanaticism and be to this continent what Mohammedism was to the continent of Asia. Smith and his priesthood dwell on this theme. We by analogy are Canaanites -- intruders; Smith is another Moses, and some one another Joshua and all who do not act the part of Rahab, are to be served as was Jericho. This description is no fiction. These fulminations have struck terror into the hearts of the timid, and terrified them into submission to the Mormon yoke. Popery with its triple crown, never made greater pretensions than Mormonism does, with its Triune Priesthood.

Smith drew the sword to take the possession of the lands in Missouri, and was defeated. When the citizens sent a deputation to the Mormon army for the accommodation of their differences, said Smith, in answer to their proposition, -- "Thus saith the Lord, [never]!!" Said Mohammed to those with whom he contended, there is no other alternative, "Pay tribute -- have the sword, or the Koran -- the shadow of swords is paradise."

Mohammed received the Koran by piecemeals, and Smith and Rigdon have been writing revelations these ten years. The similarity must be seen by every one who gives those symptoms impartial investigation. The works of this spirit of Mormonism, are chequered by a strangely inconsistent mixture of virtue and vice. It is the "mystery of iniquity" -- like the beast John saw rise up out of the earth, having the appearance of a lamb, but spake as a dragon.

The wife of one of the apostles of Smith, asked his advice, about her duty in going to Ohio; she at the time was not a Mormon. Said he, "What does your husband say about it?" He wants me to go. "Well," said Smith, "any woman who will not obey her husband, ought to be damned."

Each Mormon priest, under the influence of the triune priesthood, imagines himself allied to Christ, in that manner, that the word he speaks is the word of Christ. Hence, when they denounce a man, he is looked upon as an object of divine vengeance. This arises, in part, from their incorrect doctrine of the character of Christ. Although the Book of Mormon declares that Jesus Christ was the eternal God, yet many of its priesthood are Unitarians. Smith and Rigdon both say that Christ was never the Son of God till his baptism. And that his baptism made him the Son of God. And that God has no other way in which to make children. Can the reader harmonize these two revelations?

Another consideration worthy of our notice, is, the Mormon spirit of censoriousness against all others who profess the religion of Christ. All denominations of Christians, who do not renounce their religion, and join them, will be damned. These anathemas, damned, and damnation, are constantly rolling from the lips of a Mormon priest. "Your church is of the devil -- you are liars" -- and "you will all go to hell" -- are common phrases with this people. To me, this spirit appears more like the accuser of our brethren than the spirit of God. If Mormonism succeeds, (the supposition seems ridiculous; and yet what gross absurdities have not had a measure of success?) Christianity will receive a mortifying blow. The question is, what ought to be done? The answer is, "inform the people."

We have looked upon it as a mere delusion, containing the seeds of its own dissolution. But there is order in this fanaticism, there is system in this imposture and it carries with it an invisible spirit, by which the learned and the unlearned are strangely overcome. All classes of the community are interested. The politician as well as the Christian. The triune priesthood, constituting in itself a kingly power, will as soon draw the sword against our government as against our religion. The Mormon priests, with the Book of Mormon, are traversing England and the continent of Europe and being unknown comparatively have greater success there than at home. It would have less effect among the people of Europe, were the thing met there by some one from America, who is acquainted with it, and capable of refuting the story of its divine origin. The object of the writer, in these communications, is not to convert the Mormons, for their delusion is strong; but to inform the unwary on the subject, and if possible keep them from the fatal snare. If through the blessing of Providence on anything here written, the reader should be disposed to investigate, and take nothing on trust, and thus be saved from a delusion which drinks the life's blood of the moral feelings, and forces its victim to guilt and misery, his object will be obtained...

Smith himself has little to engage attention except daring presumption, but Sidney Rigdon, and some others of his preachers have a great deal of eloquence and subtlety."...

We have given a sufficient glance at this journal [the Evening and Morning Star] to see that it is of the same character with all those things which are thrown out to beguile the hearts of the simple and the ignorant. It is jumbled up with the scriptures to obtain attention, and the misapplication of them, though glaring to the eve of most readers, may not at all times be discovered by those but partially acquainted with their bibles. Here is the danger....

Norman Bentley.              

The foregoing complete exposure of Joseph Smith, junior, the author of this imposture, with the commencement of his operations, was published by us between six and seven years ago. Many, no doubt, were preserved by it from being entangled in the net of this arch deceiver; but the late unfortunate persecution in Missouri has again thrown him up to public view, and given him and his followers a consideration which they never otherwise could have enjoyed; and as they are improving it to disseminate their doctrines, and in some instances are beguiling unstable souls, we have thought it advisable to give it a republication, that if possible it might recover some from the infatuation in which they have been involved, and preserve others from the power of the snare. The statement of Smith's father-in-law, Mr. Hale, with the affidavits and certificates, would seem to be sufficient to open the eyes of any rational being, and rid him from the snare. But we learned when at the Mormon settlement in Kirtland, Ohio, more than a year since, that Joe Smith had adopted course to meet them, which displayed the dexterity of Satan himself. He is vigilant to obtain all the statements and facts which appear against him in the different papers, exposing his wickedness and folly, and so soon as he receives any thing of the kind he collects his followers and reads it in their hearing; and tests it as the fabrications of enemies and persecutors. By this bold manoeuvre, so seemingly honest, he secures confidence; and everything that appears against him, however true, is put down to falsehood and enmity.

We derived our information from one who had abandoned the imposture, but was residing opposite the great temple. It is somewhat strange that any intelligent ones adhered to him after the failure of his bank in Ohio. If he indeed knew all things, as he pretends, that he should have known the state of embarrassment in which the bank operations would have involved him and several of his associates, requiring them to leave their magnificent temple in Kirkland, to lease it to the Presbyterians, and seek refuge in Missouri, must have appeared inexplicable. And after being settled there, if he was thus infinite in knowledge, that he would have ventured to order the sword to be drawn against the Missourians, when he must have known it would have resulted in its defeat and captivity, must have struck the thinking ones as not [less -------] if he had the power that he pretends, that he did not blast these hostile Missourians by a single prayer, adds to the number of previous difficulties. One seems engaged in very little business to spend time about so wretched an imposture, but if a single individual can be preserved by the labour from the fatal snare, it can not be deemed unimportant. And to do what we can to furnish foreigners with an expose that may secure the unwary from the loss of their property, and the ruin of their domestic happiness, is at this time peculiarly imperative...


Note 1: The above article text has not yet been verified -- the actual content may differ from this preliminary posting. It was taken from one or more letters written by Elder Norman Bentley (1800-1844) to the editor of the Utica, New York Baptist Register, and published there in January and February of 1841.

Note 2: According to Bentley's letter, he first read the Book of Mormon late in 1830 or early in 1831. By that time he was living in Monroe County, New York. He had previously lived in Guilford, the Chenango County township adjacent to Bainbridge, and not far from Colesville, in Broome County. It is possible that Bentley first met Joseph Smith, Jr. in Chenango County c. 1827-1829. If not, then the initial encounter between the two men must have occurred around the time that Smith left New York for Ohio. Bentley occasionally served as a traveling "supply minister" and probably visited Baptist associations and congregations as far west as Kirtland, Ohio.

Note 3: In the April 1, 1841 issue of the Nauvoo Times & Seasons, editorial comments (perhaps penned by Don Carlos Smith) in response to the Cross & Journal article, state: "We doubt whether the author ever saw Brother Joseph Smith: if he has ever conversed with him, he has knowingly and wilfully vilified his character..." Bentley seems to have been and honest reporter (see his letter to the National Observer, reprinted in an Anti-Masonic tract, where his critical observations appear to be sober, measured and accurate). Bentley had a professional reputation to uphold, and so it is doubtful whether he would risk damaging that, by writing outright lies and slander for the Baptist papers.

A Profitable Business. -- The Paymaster General of the Missouri Militia has made [a] report, in which it appears, that what he calls the Mormon War, [cost] the State of Missouri one hundred and fifty thousand dollars. -- Cin. Rep.

Notes: (forthcoming)

HISTORY  OF  MORMONISM,

Or a faithful account of that singular imposition and delusion, with sketches of the character of its propagators.

To Which are added inquires into the probability that the historical part of

"THE GOLDEN BIBLE"

was Written by One Soloman Spaulding, and by him intended to be published as a romance. By. E. D. Howe, Painesville.

Price 50 cents. Just received and for sale by
JAS KILBOURNE, JR., & CO.

Note: After Lewis L. Rice purchased the Painesville Telegraph and all of the items in its printing office, he discovered a number of unbound pages prepared for E.D. Howe's 1834 Mormonism Unvailed. These he bound up with new title-pages and offered the results for sale in 1840-41.

THE MORMON CITY. -- The fugitive Mormons from Missouri, with their brethren in Illinois, have established a city in the latter State. They have named their new place of settlement Nauvoo, and already report a population of three thousand. -- N. Y. Star.


Notes: (forthcoming)

MORMONS. -- The believers in the 'Book of Mormon' in the United States, number about 50,000.

Notes: (forthcoming)

THE MORMONS. -- The last number of the "Times and Seasons," the organ of the Mormons, contains a communication from onw of their ministers in England, giving a flattering account of the increase of that sect. He says, "I must inform you of the fact, that we have reaped the first fruits of Campbellism in England. A few societies have been formed in England upon that principle for some years, but have made but little progress." After mentioning several who have left that sect, and joined the Mormons, he adds -- "Tell friend Campbell to go ahead and prepare the way, the Saints will follow him up and gather the fruits." We think the writer has some ground for his hopes, and Mr. Campbell may yet have to turn round and act on the defensive, to save the field he has won. It is both mournful and insructive to watch the waves of heresy, as they roll on, and swollow each other up. Some grand reformer starts forth, and proclaims that he has discovered the _truth,_ that he has dug his way through error till he has found solid bottom, and is now based on an immoveable foundation, and invites all to flock to him, when suddenly
* * * In the lowest depths,
A tower deep, still threat'ning to devour him,
Opens wide. And all his efforts are needed to keep his flock from falling in. But all his efforts are useles, the very principles he has labored to implant now tend to a result he would gladly avoid. He has set a ball in motion, and he cnnnot stop it; it moves8 with its own momentum. He sees his destruction accomplished by the sarne principles that raised him to his elevation.


Note 1: The "minister in England" referred to Parley P. Pratt's letter to Sidney Rigdon, dated Jan. 8th, 1841, and published in the April 1st Times & Seasons. This was the same issue of the Nauvoo paper which condemned the Cross & Journal's reprint of Elder Norman Bentley's accusations against Joseph Smith and Mormonism. The Baptist editor chose to pass over the Times & Seasons comments regarding the latter matter without further comment.

Note 2: As coincidence would have it, Parley P. Pratt also condemned Elder Bentley's reporting -- though he did so without any reference to the Cross & Journal or the April 1, 1841 Times & Seasons editorializing. In both cases the LDS response to Bentley amounted to curt non-responses.

THE MORMON PROGRESS. -- The cornerstone of the great Mormon Temple at Nauvoo, lllinois, was laid on the 6th instant, in presence of seven or eight thousand persons, and the Nauvoo Military Legion consisting of 600 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. Gen. Bennet commanded the Legion under the direction of the Prophet, and acquitted himself in a truly officer-like manner."


Notes: The above item was copied from the Western World (re-named the Warsaw Signal) of April 7, 1841.

THE MORMONS. -- We learn from the Warsaw Signal published near Nauvoo, that considerable dissatisfaction exists among the Mormons who have lately arrived from England. Some have left the Church and city, and have written to their friends in England not to emigrate on account of the sad condition of the Society. The mission of the pretended Prophet does not bear too close an inspection, nor do they like the temporal government set up over them by Rigdon & Co. The Signal states, however, that Mr. Rigdon says most of the new comers are well satisfied.


Notes: (forthcoming)

==> It is stated that "Joe Smith, the Mormon prophet, has been arrested for treason against the State of Missouri."


Notes: (forthcoming)

==> The Book of Mormon has been republished in England, where the Mormonites are said to be more successful even than in this country. The book is noticed at considerable length in many of the latest Journals.


Notes: (forthcoming)

==> JOE SMITH, a leader among the Mormons, has been arrested at Quincy, Illinois, upon a requisition, from the Governor of of Missouri. The Mormons, hearing of his arrest, flocked in great assemblies to the place of examination.


Notes: (forthcoming)

JOE SMITH IN TROUBLE. -- The Galena Gazette confirms the report that the Mormon Prophet has again fallen into the hands of his unfeeling persecutors in Missouri. A boat arrived there brings intelligence when she passed Nauvoo, the Mormons had collected in large numbers in a grove near by, and were fasting and praying with great zeal for the deliverance of their leading saint, Joseph Smith. By order of a recent revelation to Smith, the Mormons have commenced building an extensive Tavern. One tenth of their labor is devoted by his order to this object and to work on the magnificent Temple. The following paragraph shows that more pilgrims are on the way to the "promised land."

WESTWARD HO! -- Sixteen wagon loads of "Latter Day Saints," (or Mormons,) 97 in number, from Oswego county, passed through this city on Monday evening, on their way to the "Land of Promise," on the Mississippi. -- Before crossing the river, the Caravan halted, and favored our citizens with a few regular built Joe Smith tunes. -- Roch. Dem.

Notes: (forthcoming)

NAUVOO -- JOE SMITH. -- A correspondent of the Cincinnati Chronicle, who recently paid the Mormons a visit, says that

'Nauvoo, the Mormon town, is laid out on a large scale, being two or three miles square, and though the houses are scattered, the whole presents a very fine appearance facing the west, with a gentle ascent back from the river. It contains over 3000 inhabitants, and is increasing. All who live there are of the true faith, and submit entirely to Smith's authority. Many of the farmers in the vicinity, who are not strictly his followers, believe in his divine authority, and some churches of other denominations have been closed. The have a college, publish a paper, and have organized several companies of troops under the name of the Nauvoo Legion, which is authorized by the State Government. They have just commenced building a 'Temple,' which the Missouri people say is nothing but a fort in disguise. We found Joe Smith on horseback, in a shining military suit, reviewing his troops. He is about 35 years of age, with a pale countenance, and is one of those men whose character cannot be read in the face. He seemed shrewd and quick, was polite, and conversed agreeably.'

A letter published in the Journal of Commerce, from the vicinity of Nauvoo, states that much excitement exists on both sides of the Mississippi against the Mormons, which is increasing fast, and that Joe Smith has been arrested by the authorities of Illinois, on a requisition from the Governor of Missouri. Joe is represented as having got into difficulty with the people of Iowa, as he claims a tract of 120,000 acres of land directly opposite the Mormon town on the opposite side of the river, by a direct revelation from God. About 2000 of his followers have taken possession, and set all human titles at defiance.

Martin Harris, one of the witnesses to the Golden Bible, and who has been teaching Mormonism for some time past, was found murdered not long since.

The Book of Mormon has been printed in England, and the new sect is rapidly increasing in numbers in the old world. -- Cleve. Her.


Note: The Journal of Commerce piece (possibly first communicated by David W. Kilbourne, from Montrose, Iowa) turned out to be wrong -- whoever the reporters of Martin Harris' supposed death may have been, they were most certainly mistaken. See the Painesville Telegraph of June 30, 1841.

THE MORMONS. -- ARREST OF JO SMITH.

By the annexed extract from a private letter from a highly respectable gentleman, residing near the Mormon settlement, (Nauvoo) it appears that the scenes which a few months since were enacted in Missouri, are in danger of being repeated in lowa. There is a tract of 120,000 acres of beautiful land lying directly opposite the Mormon settlement on the Mississippi river. The tract was given to the Half Breeds of the Sax and Fox nations by the United States, and has been purchased from them by the whites. Proceedings have been had in the Equity Court of Iowa to partition these lands, and commissioners appointed by the court to survey and divide them among the lawful claimants. Some months since, the title being unsettled, Jo. Smith received a revelation from God to the effect that the Latter Day Saints should go in and possess this fair land and enjoy the fruits thereof. Accordingly there are said to be now about 2000 of these people residing on said lands, who claim by the highest authority a title direct from the Creator, and they seem determined to set all human laws at defiance. In addition to despoiling the lands of much valuable timber, they now forbid the commissioners and surveyors, on pain of death, to attempt a survey and partition. The arrest of their leader, it is to be hoped, will prevent the execution of their threat.

Extract of a letter from the vicinity of Nauvoo

"The excitement on both sides of the river against the Mormons is increasing very fast. The conduct of Jo Smith and the other leaders, is such as no community of white men can tolerate. It is the entire absence of all moral and religious principle, that renders them so obnoxious to the Gentiles of all denominations, wherever they reside.

"Jo Smith was yesterday arrested, between Nauvoo and Quincy, by the authorities of Illinois, on a requesition from the Governor of Missouri. May justice be meted out to him for his villainies.

"Martin Harris, who was one of the witnesses, to the book of Mormon, and who has been for some time lecturing in Illinois against the the Mormons, was found dead last week, having been shot through tha head. He was no doubt murdered." -- Journal of Com.


Note 1: The Journal of Commerce June 19th piece (perhaps first communicated by David W. Kilbourne, from Montrose, Iowa) turned out to be wrong -- the reporters of Martin Harris' demise were greatly mistaken. See the Painesville Telegraph of June 30, 1841.

Note 2: The editor of the Nauvoo Times and Seasons took great exception to the publication of the above report, saying in his issue of July 15, 1841: "The correspondent of the Journal of Commerce was aware that such things would not gain credence here, but knowing the gullibility of the eastern press, he was satisfied they would swallow his lies. -- Now, we would say, that the entire statement, with the exception of the arrest of Joseph Smith, is a tissue of lies, got up by a malignant and depraved heart for the worst and most diabolical purpose, and when we read it we could not but blush for humanity." Elder Isaac Galland, in his 1841 Reply to Various Falsehoods, articulated the Mormon response in these words: "And now we ask, what but 'the entire absence of all moral and religious principle that' could induce a 'a highly respectable gentleman' even in a 'private letter' toassert a base falsehood, and to expose himself to be exhibited before the world as a malignant lying " gentile" without excuseor disguise? The concealment of the name of this 'highly respectable gentleman' has not entirely answered his purpose, as his Shibboleth has already betrayed him. We give the initials of his name as follows: D. W. K. If we are correct in our suspicion, we will merely quote theconcluding sentence of his own letter, "May justice be meted out to him for his villainy."

Note 3: While its appears evident that David W. Kilbourne was indeed the correspondent who submitted the first portion of the June 19th article to the Journal of Commerce, it is less certain that he was responsible for originating the claim about Martin Harris being dead. Kilbourne may have simply passed along a second letter that had come into his hands, or he may have had nothing at all to do with the second half of the published report.

The St. Louis Republican states that the Governor of Illinois has become, bona fide, a Mormon. The conversion was effected by a beautiful girl. Who can blame him?


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE MORMONS. -- Joe Smith's disciples celebrated the 4th at Nauvoo with great pomp. It was a kind of military celebration, accompanied with an oration and feasting. Mr. Rigdon delivered the oration, and a table one thousand feet long was provided for the faithful. Joe Smith it seems wore "flaming regimentals" as commander in chief of the "Nauvoo Legion. The editor of the Burlington Hawkeye was present, and thus describes the appearance of the Mormons, &c.

As you approach Nauvoo from the river, and reach the bank, which is not very high, you begin to ascend a gentle slope of prairie, interspersed with a few scattering oaks. The ascent is gradual for nearly a mile as to cause no more inconvenience than in walking over a plain. The face of the whole town site for a mile up and down the river does not vary much from this description. About three-quarters of a mile from the landing we saw a large convocation of people, apparently engaged in listening to someone addressing them. Most of the Mormons could be distinguished by their militiary dress. We do not know how they appeared on parade, but as we saw them, they presented the appearance of having searched the world and all the armories to boot, to obtain their military dresses and equipment. They seemed in truth a motley crew; some with one pistol, some with two; others with a pike or harpoon. We even saw some with a brace of pistols, a gun and a sword. The cavalry or cohorts remained on their horses, and surrounded the stand, so that it was difficult to get near enough to hear Rigdon's speech to any advantage. Shortly after arriving we were obliged to disperse with the crowd, when we wended our way towards the dinner table. On the way we took a look at the foundation of the temple, which, with the help of one-tenth of all their labor, which we are informed is required, is progressing tolerably fast. Before going to the dinner table we visited the 'ox shed.' Here we found the 'front half' of twelve oxen as large as life, carved from wood. Some of them were in such a state of forwardness as to look quite natural. When finished they are to be gilded and placed within the temple, as the base of a great baptismal laver, according to the Mosaic ritual, we suppose. We then visited the table, but were not allowed to come very close on account of the guard. It was situated on a second bench of the prairie before mentioned, and was stretched along the plain for upwards of a thousand feet. After waiting a short time, the cannon -- they had several on the ground -- announced the approach of the procession. -- 'Jo Smith,' his body guard having retired, was now seated in a barouche at the foot of the procession, with what we took to be his family. He was dressed in a splendid uniform from top to toe. After he alighted and took the head of the table, the procession moved on, consisting of men, women and children, to their respective places at the table. The crier informed the surrounding multitude, that there was sufficient room for 500 more, but few took advantage of the information. We waited to see the 'Prophet' carve a large fat turkey, and distribute it to the ladies around, after which our company left the ground. Thus ended our visit to the Mormons.


Notes: (forthcoming)

SOMETHING FURTHER ABOUT THE MORMONS. -- A Galena paper says, "from what we hear and read, we should judge that great excitement prevailed among the other inhabitants of Hancock county and vicinity, in relation to this sect. We should exceedingly regret to see the exciting scenes of Missouri re-enacted in this state, out we consider such as not among the impossibilities. What appears to excite particular aversion or alarm, is the organization of what is called the Nauvoo Legion who muster every few days, 'all harnassed for war.' Their neighbors unskilled in the mysteries of the golden plates, fear they are to be driven out, as were the Hittites, Jebusites, &c., from the land or Canaan of old, and that Smith does not put as much faith in in the efficacy of rams' horns, in tearing the walls of the Gentiies, as in shooting irons and ball-cartriges. Our belief has been, that the Mormon Legion has been organized for defence, as in case of an attack, as in Missouri."


Notes: (forthcoming)

BAPTISM FOR THE DEAD. -- We neglected to mention last week, says the Warsaw (IIll.) Signal, that a revolutionary soldier was baptised at Nauvoo on the 4th by one of the Elders, for General Washington; another old soldier was baptised at the same time for General Harrison. The doctrine of the Mormons appear to be, that those who are living [must be baptised by one having] authority from Joe Smith, or else go to hell; but those who are already dead may be brought out of torment by a friend or relation receiving the baptismal rights in their behalf. The nation may rejoice, therefore, that the illustrious patriots above named are now taken from the possession of the Prince of Darkness and admitted into the fellowship of the Saints!


Notes: (forthcoming)

We have seen it stated in one of the Western papers, that Joe Smith, the Mormon, once paid a visit to Keokuck, the Indian Chief, and attempted to persuade him to embrace the Mormon creed. He told the Indian that Mormonism would prevent the bullets from injuring him, and that he had himself been shot three times, and not hurt. Keokuck then requested Joe to stand sixty paces off, at which distance he would shoot at him three times with his rifle, and if he remained unharmed, the Indian promised to embrace Mormonism. This was rather too much for Joe, and he accordingly backed out, and refused to take him on "those conditions." -- Hartford Times.


Note: In other versions of the "twice-told" tale, the proselytizer is simply a nameless Mormon elder, or even an unnamed Protestant missionary.

MORMON  INTERPRETATION
OF  1 Cor. 15:29.

Mr. Editor: You are aware that the above passage of Scripture is accounted a difficult one, and has been explained in different ways. I send you in addition the explanation as given by the Mormons: "Else what shall they do which are baptized for the dead. If the dead rise not at all, why are they then baptized for the dead?"

The Mormon doctrine is, that all who are so unhappy as to leave the world without embracing the fulness of the gospel, or the Mormon faith, will have the gospel preached to them again, founded on 1 Pet. 2:19, &c. "By which also he went and preached to the spirits in prison." This preaching they think is effectual. Many of the spirits in prison do repent and believe, but being disembodied they cannot literally comply with the command of our Savior to be baptized. -- Hence if they have living friends in the body, the duty of these friends is to come and be baptized in their stead. Neither is this an idle speculation or dead faith among them. -- Many have actually been baptised for their deceased friends. Upward sof twenty at one time in Kirtland were baptised in the name of the Holy Trinity in the stead of their friends, calling them by name, who died unbaptised. They consider this an act of pious affection due to departed friends, to aid them in completely fulfilling the injunctions of the gospel.

Yours, &c.       T. COE.      

Notes: (forthcoming)

WEST UNION  AND  MANHATTAN.

...No principle in morals or religion is so well established as that a prophet is incapable of sin. Mahomet with his harem of beauties, was no transgressor of the seventh commandment. Joe Smith, the Mormon leader, has arrived at that extreme degree of sanctity, that no act, however it might compromise an ordinary mortal, will leave the stain of sin upon his soul....


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE MORMONS. -- Eleven or twelve Mormons, who were commissioned by Joe Smith to go over and convert Europe to this humbug, have returned to Nauvoo. The Mormon paper says they have been very successful. The Burlington Hawk-eye states that the prophet is SPIRITUALIZING to excess. He was 'gloriously drunk' at Montrose recently, according to that paper.


Notes: (forthcoming)

MARCH  OF  MORMONISM.

We have received from the city of Nauvoo, out west, the following intelligince showing the march of Mormonism. It appears that the western atmosphere is favorable, to Joe Smith and his disciples.

(From the Nauvoo Times and Seasons, Sept. 15.)

The Church and its Prospects. -- Many of our friends and correspondents living at a distance, are anxiously inquiring to know the situation of the church in this place, with regard to our neighbors. We will answer their inquiries in a word; all is peace and prosperity with the church in all this region of country, and the prospects are, by far, more flattering at the present time, than we have ever known them. Perfect harmony and good feeling prevails, between us and our neighbors, with the exception of two or three individuals, whose names are not worthy of mention. They have labored incessantly to create an excitement, but thus far it has proved altogether fruitless, with the exception of the little feeling created abroad, where they are not known, through the medium of the Journal of Commerce, and other low and vulgar prints, which choose to publish a Iie rather than the truth, because it takes better with the community at large; and besides, they think to injure thousand of innocent people by so doing; but in this they are mistaken. for we can assure them that the warmer the persecution, the greater the spread of the work, the fiercer the contest the sooner it will be ended, when 'truth will prevail' Mormonism rise triumphantly victorious over all opposition, and this, the gospel of the kingdom of Jesus Christ, will be preached to all the nations, kindreds, tongues and people, under the whole heaven; the honest in heart will cheerfully embrace it, and be gathered into the cities of Zion and Jerusalem, places of refuge appointed of God for the safety of his people, when be pours out his wrath and indignation upon the wicked and ungodly, and those 'who know not God and obey not the gospel of Jesus Christ.' -- But to return.

Great improvements have been made in our city, during the present season; several hundred buildings have been erected, many of frame and brick buildings. The building committee of the Temple are making rapid advances towards the completion of thatgreat and desirable object; the baptismal font in its base will probably be completed in a few weeks. The Nauvoo House is also in a great state of forwardness, and the work thereon is being pushed forward with all possible diligence. We are informed that the committee of those two buildings have purchased extensive mills and water privileges in the Pineries of Wisconsin, and a company of several men, in their employ, will leave here in few days for that country.

The health, of this place has improved very much; there has not been, it is thought, half as much sickness this season a last, according to the number of inhabitants, nor two thirds the amount of deaths.

Happiness and joy seem to be depicted upon the countenances of all we meet; peace and prosperity is the happy lot of the saints in this place, for the present, at least.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE INDIAN'S OPINION OF THE BOOK OF MORMON. -- An old Indian having attended a Mormon meeting, and heard one of its advocates extol Mormonism, was requested to give his opinion on its merit. He began by detailing the great good which had been done by the Bible, of which God was the author. And, said he, the devil, seing this, determined that he would have a Bible of his own, and accordingly he wrote the book of Mormon; but on examination he felt ashamed of his work, and so he hid it in Ontario county, N. Y. But Jo Smith dug it up, and published it as a revelation from God! -- Manchester (N. H.) Herald.


Note: Oddly enough, the Editor of the Nauvoo Times and Seasons saw fit to reprint this caustic little anecdote in that paper's issue for July 1, 1844 -- the same number that announced the assassination of Joseph Smith, Jr.

THE MORMONS. -- This singular people are growing in numbers and gifts. We understand that to their old mode of worship practiced by them at Kirtland, dancing and kissing are now added. They are building up Nauvoo, their Holy City, rapidly, and accessions to the society from various sections of the United States as well as from Europe, are constantly arriving to occupy the "Promised Land." A splendid Temple for wirship, and an extensive Hotel for the accomodation of "the brethren," are now in progress at Nauvoo. One tenth of the labor of the whole community is devoted to constructing these edifices.

The origin and progress of Mormonism in this country is one of the marvels of the age. That it originated in and has been sustained by gross imposition on the credulous, hardly admits of a doubt. The deceptions have in many instances been so glaring, that none but the infatuated could close their eyes against them. The story of the finding of the Golden Bible -- the abstraction of the plates on which the strange characters are said to have been written -- the gift of tongues -- the new revelations -- the new prophecies made from time to time to meet occurring events, or else their total failure of "coming to pass" -- the abortion of attempted miracles -- were sufficient in the early days of Mormonism to stamp the whole as humbug of the first water. Persecution, however, took the place of investigation, and as a matter of course the Mormons "grew and multiplied." The followers of Joseph Smith were as humble and ready for the sacrifice as the old Christian martyrs, and the story of their wrongs and sufferings for the faith, is similarly soul-harowing.

The extravagance of the belief and conduct of the first converts to Mormonism is hardly credible, though what we shall relate we personally witnessed. At a protracted Mormon meeting, the gift of tongues and prophecy was claimed and taught by the elders. Accordingly these gifts were practised by the converts. At one time something like half a dozen of both sexes were stretched upon the fround together, struck down by the spirit, as asserted by the Mormon teachers. Suddenly one of the entranced would commence a low, gutteral kind of Indian dialect, and the others would join in the conversation in "unknown tongues" truly -- neither English, Dutch, French, Indian, or hog-latin! After entertaining themselves and the wondering spectators long enough with "tongues," they would start to their feet, and apparently controlled by the spirit, wildly gesticulate -- pluck the air as if gathering grapes -- feast on nothing -- hunt on the "promised land" -- ready, aim, and fire at the game -- then return and relate their success in "unknown tongues!" And the preachers of Mormonism gravely told the people these were the "signs which should distinguish the saints!" A few weeks after it was revealed to Jo Smith that all these "signs" were of the Devil -- and presto! they were gone to their reputed father!

Their prophecies were "off the same piece." The destruction of the world in three years was repeatedly predicted. One of the elders closed a cheering exhortation to his followers to prepare for the "Holy Land," by positively assuring them that ere long the whole country between Ohio and Missouri would be changed into a sea of waters, on which they would be triumphantly borne to the "promised land of milk and honey!" After patiently waiting some years for the promised flood, the credulous flock started for "New Jerusalem" with ox teams! The prophet had gone before on foot!

The Mormons now issue a monthly paper from Nauvoo, called "The Times and Seasons." From a late number we add a few extracts, to give an idea of some of their modern crotchets:

"The brethren are hereby notified, that our well beloved brother, Hyrum Smith, Patriarch of the church, has erected a comfortable office, opposite his dwelling house, where himself together with his scribe and recorder (James Sloan,) will attend regularly every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, during the entire day, or upon any other day, if urgent circumstances require it, to perform the duties of his high and holy calling.

"A copy of the blessing can be received immediately after being pronounced, so that the brethren who live at a distance can have it to take with them."

"It appears that the Mormons at Kirtland, Ohio, are about establishing a press at that place, and also design establishing themselves there permanently. In reference to this matter, the "Times and Seasons," published the following communicatiuon from the "patriarch of the whole church."

"All the saints that dwell in that land are commanded to come away, for this is, 'Thus saith the Lord;' therefore pay out no moneys nor properties for houses, nor lands, in that country, for if you do, you will lose them; for the time shall come that you shall not possess them in peace; but shall be scourged with a sore scourge; yet your children may possess them; but not until many years shall pass away; and, as to the organization of that branch of the church, it is not according to the spirit and will of God: and as to the designs of the leading members of that branch relative to the printing press, and the ordaining of Elders, and sending out elders to beg for the poor, are not according to the will of God; and in these things they shall not prosper, for they have neglected the House of the Lord, the Baptismal Font, in this place, wherein their dead may be redeemed, and the key of knowledge that unfolds the dispensation of the fulness of times may be turned, and the mysteries of God be unfolded, upon which the salvation of the world, and the redemption of their dead depends, for 'Thus saith the Lord,' 'there shall not be a general assembly or a general conference assembled together until the House of the Lord shall be finished, and the Baptismal Font, and if we are not diligent the church shall be rejected, and their dead also,' 'saith the Lord,' therefore, dear Brother, any proceedings otherwise than to put forth their hands with their might to do this work, is not according to the will of God, and shall not prosper; therefore tarry, not in any place whatever, but come forth unto this place from all the world, until it is filled up and polished, and sanctified according to my word, saith the Lord, come ye forth from the ends of the earth, that I may hide you from mine indignation that shall scourge the wicked, and then I will send forth and build up Kirtland, and it shall be polished and refined according to my word, therefore, your doings and your organizations, and designs in printing, or any of your councils, are not of me, saith the Lord, even so, Amen.
                 HYRUM SMITH. Patriarch
                            for the whole church."

Notes: (forthcoming)

MORMONISM. -- When one of the Mormons in the confidence of the leaders at Kirtland, a few years since, under conviction of the sinfulness of deceptions practised there, made a confession in open meeting, the head men, Joseph Smith, Rigdon and others involved in the practices divulged, took a sudden departure. With them went such as would still adhere to them, and these with divers [converts?] added to them from this and other lands have since been building their New Jerusalem or Nauvoo in Missouri [sic - Illinois?]. It is already a place of considerable importance. In the mean time it appears that the party remaining at Kirtland, (which we have supposed to be the more honest portion of the community) have been "strengthening their position." -- Still adhering to the "golden bible" humbug, though discarding its inventors as their leaders, they have proposed to establish a press for themselves. One would think that enough of Mormonism to satisfy reasonable minds is developed in the following proclamation elicited from the authorities at Nauvoo by the movement at Kirtland. It is published in the Mormon paper at Nauvoo -- the 'Times and Seasons,' and is indeed a specimen of the times, to be admired.

"All the saints that dwell in that land are commanded to come away, for this is, 'Thus saith the Lord;' therefore pay out no monies nor properties for houses, nor lands, in that country, for if you do, you will lose them; for the time shall come that you shall not possess them in peace; but shall be scourged with a sore scourge; yet your children may possess them; but not until many years shall pass away; and; as to the organization of that branch of the church, it is not according to the spirit and will of God; and as to the designs of the leading members of that branch relative to the printing press, and the ordaining of Elders, and sending out Elders to beg for the poor, are not according to the will of God; and in these things they shall not prosper, for they have neglected the House of the Lord, the Baptismal Font, in this place, wherein their dead may be redeemed, and the key of knowledge that unfolds the dispensation of the fulness of times may be turned, and the mysteries of God be unfolded, upon which their salvation and the salvation of the world, and the redemption of their dead depends, for 'Thus saith the Lord,' 'there shall not be a General Assembly or a general conference assembled together until the House of the Lord shall be finished, and the Baptismal Font, and if we are not diligent the church shall be rejected, and their dead also,' 'Saith the Lord.' Therefore, dear Brother, any proceedings otherwise than to put forth their hands with their might to do this work, is not according to the will of God, and shall not prosper; therefore tarry, not in any place whatever, but come forth unto this place from all the world, until it is filled up, and polished, and sanctified according to my word, saith the Lord, come ye forth from the ends of the earth, that I may hide you from mine indignation that shall scourge the wicked, and then I will send forth and build up Kirtland, and it shall be polished and refined according to my [word], therefore, your doings and your organizations, and designs in printing, or any of your councils, are not of me, saith the Lord, even so, Amen.

HYRUM SMITH, Patriarch for the whole church.      

Note: See also the Huron Reflector for Dec. 21, 1841.

The Mormons. -- On the 19th ult. 250 Mormons arrived at St. Louis from England, on their way to Nauvoo. Smith and Rigdon are also issuing edicts ordering the Mormons at Kirtland, Ohio to [move] to Nauvoo. They however refuse to do so.

Notes: (forthcoming)

MORMONS. -- The St. Louis Republican mentions the arrival of 250 Mormons in that city, from England, by way of New Orleans. They are going to Nauvoo, the city of the Latter Day Saints.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE MORMONS. -- The Warsaw Signal states that troubles are thickening in that region in reference to the Mormons. The inhabitants charge the Mormons with pilfering, and talk of driving them out of the country. We fear there will be trouble before Joe Smith's humbug is exploded. The Mormons are well prepared to fight, and will not be easily dispossessed of the promised land. -- Pittsb. Gazette.


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Mormons.

This singular people are growing in number and gifts. We understand that to their old mode of worship practiced by them at Kirtland, dancing and kissing are now admitted. They are building up Nauvoo, their Holy City, rapidly; and accessions to the society from various sections of the United States as well as from Europe, are constantly arriving to occupy the 'Promised Land.' A splendid Temple for worship, and an extensive hotel for the accommodation of 'the brethren,' are now in progress at Nauvoo. One-tenth of the labor of the whole community is devoted to constructing this edifice.

The origin and progress of Mormonism in this country is one of the [marvels] of the age. That it originated in and has been sustained by gross imposition on the credulous, hardly admits of a doubt. The deceptions have in many instances been so glaring, that none but the infatuated could close their eyes against them. The story of the finding of the Golden Bible -- the abstraction of the plates on which the strange characters are said to have been written; the gift of tongues; the new prophecies made from time to time to meet occurring events, or else their total failure of 'coming to pass' -- the abortion of attempted miracles -- were sufficient in the early days of Mormonism to stamp the whole as a humbug of the first water. Persecution, however, took the place of investigation, and as a matter of course the Mormons 'grew and multiplied.' The followers of Joseph Smith were as humble and ready for the sacrifice as the old Christian martyrs, and the story of their wrongs and sufferings for the faith, is similarly soul-harrowing.

The extravagance of the belief and conduct of some of the first converts to Mormonism is hardly credible, though what we shall relate we personally witnessed. At a protracted Mormon meeting, the gift of tongues and prophecy was claimed and taught by the elders. Accordingly these gifts were practiced by the converts. At one time something like half a dozen of both sexes were stretched upon the ground together, struck down by the spirit, as asserted by the Mormon teachers. Suddenly one of the entranced would commence a low, guttural kind of Indian dialect, and the others would join in the conversation in 'unknown tongues,' truly -- neither English, Dutch, French, Indian, or hog-latin! After entertaining themselves and the wandering spectators long enough with 'tongues,' they would start to their feet, and apparently controlled by the spirit, wildly gesticulate; pluck the air as if gathering grapes; feast on nothing; hunt in the 'promised land;' ready, aim, and fire at the game; then return and relate the success in 'unknown tongues!' And the preachers of Mormonism gravely told the people these were the 'signs which should distinguish the saints!' A few weeks after, it was revealed to Jo Smith that all these signs were of the Devil, and presto! they were gone to their reputed father!

Their prophecies were 'off the same piece.' The destruction of the world in three years was repeatedly predicted. One of the elders closed a cheering exhortation to his followers to prepare for the 'Holy Land,' by positively assuring them that ere long the whole country between Ohio and Missouri would be changed into a sea of waters, on which they would be triumphantly borne to the 'promised land of milk and honey!' After patiently waiting some years for the promised flood, the credulous flock started for 'New Jerusalem' with ox teams! The prophet had gone before on foot!

The Mormons now issue a monthly paper at Nauvoo, called 'The Times and Seasons.' From a late number we add a few extracts, to give an idea to some of their of their modern crotchets. -- C. Her.

'The brethren are hereby notified, that our well beloved brother, Hyrum Smith, Patriarch of the church, has erected a comfortable office, opposite his dwelling house, where himself together with his scribe and recorder (James Sloan,) will regularly every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, during the entire day, or upon any other day, if urgent circumstances require it, to perform the duties of his high and holy calling.

A copy of the blessing can be received immediately after being pronounced, so that the brethren who live at a distance can have it to take with them'

It appears that the Mormons at Kirtland, Ohio, are about establishing a press at that place, and also design establishing themselves there permanently. In reference to this matter, the 'Times and Seasons' publishes the following communication from the 'patriarch of the whole church,'

'All the saints that dwell in the land are commanded to come away, for this is, 'Thus saith the Lord;' therefore pay out no money nor properties for houses nor land, in that country, for if you do, you will lose them; for the time shall come that you shall not possess them in peace, but shall be scourged with a sore scourge; yet your children may possess them, but not until many years shall pass away, and, as to the origination of that branch of the church, it is not according to the spirit and will of God; and as to the designs of the leading members of that branch relative to the printing press, and the ordaining of Elders, and sending out Elders to beg for the poor, are not according to the will of God; and in these things they shall not prosper, for they have neglected the House of the Lord, the Baptismal Font, in this place, wherein their dead may be redeemed, and the key of knowledge that unfolds the dispensation of the fullness of times may be turned, and the mysteries of God be unfolded, upon which their salvation and the salvation of the world, and the redemption of their dead depends, for "Thus saith the Lord," "there shall not be a General Assembly for a general conference assembled together until the House of the Lord shall be finished, and the Baptismal Font, and if we are not diligent the church shall be rejected, and their dead also," "Saith the Lord," therefore, dear Brother, any proceedings otherwise than to put forth their hands with their might to do this work, is not according to the will of God, and shall not prosper; therefore tarry, not in any place whatever, but come forth unto this place from all the world, until it is filled up, and polished, and sanctified according to my word, saith the Lord, come ye forth from the ends of the earth, that I may hide you from mine indignation that shall scourge the wicked, and then I will send forth and build up Kirtland, and it shall be polished and refined according to my work; therefore, your doings and your organizations, and designs in printing, or any of your councils, are not of me, saith the Lord even so, Amen.   HYRUM SMITH, Patriarch for the whole church.

---

Joe Smith's New Peeping Stone. -- We learn from the most indisputable authority that Joe has found a new peeping stone. The circumstances of its discovery are rather curious, and we give them as received. He was walking some evenings ago, with a young lady, (or woman, which ever you please,) when suddenly he darted aside and leaped into a cellar, where he presently cried out 'how came I here?' and 'how shall I get out?' The lady with this seized him and raised him as though he had been a child. Joe then stated the miraculous manner of his being drawn by the power of God into the cellar, and to the very spot where laid the stone, which he says has the remarkable property of enabling him to translate unknown languages, and to discover the place where treasures are hidden.

Look out for miracles soon, Joe no doubt intends to find lots of money before long that for months have been laying by him. -- Warsaw Signal.


Note: The writer of the introductory portion of the first article above was evidently a staff writer or an editor at the Cleveland Herald and Gazette. For a similar, earlier specimen of the same writer's reminiscences regarding the Kirtland Mormons, see the Cleveland article reprinted in the columns of the Huron Reflector on May 14, 1839.

Pittsburgh  Correspondence
_____

Pittsburgh, Dec. 31, 1841.           

Dear Sir: ...

Three Mormon preachers arrived here a day or two since, and have commenced delivering lectures on the authenticity of Joe Smith's bible. I am told that they are actually making converts! Nothing seems too absurd to find advocates and followers. Verily we live in the age of humbugs. Nothing seems to absurd to find advocates and followers. Verily, we live in the age of humbugs!...

STAT NOMINIS UMBRA.           

Note: The editor of the Stateman's local rival, the Whig Ohio State Journal, noticed this correspondence and printed the following comment: "There is nothing to be surprised at in the spread of Mormonism. It is next of kin to Loco Focoism, and that, incomprehensibly enough, finds worshippers and supporters. Truly, this is the age of humbugs, as the kindred isms too abundantly testify."

MORMONISM  AND  LOCO FOCOlSM.

We had occasion to remark the other day that these two isms were of near kin. The following item from the Springfield (Ill.) Journal, would seem to indicate that they were about to be merged into one:

EXTRAORDINARY!

The "Times and Seasons," the Mormon paper, published at Nauvoo, in this state, of January 1, 1842, contains a proclamation signed "Joseph Smith, Lieutenant General of the Nauvno Legion," directing the Mormons of this state, to vote for A. W. Snyder and John Moore, for Govornor and Lieutenant Governor, in August next. This document, and others contained in the same paper, we shall publish in our next. If they do not set the citizens of this State to thinking, we do not know what will.


Notes: (forthcoming)

From the Springfield Republic.

OHIO  LUNATIC  ASYLUM.

We have before us a copy of the Annual Report of the Directors and Superintendent of the Ohio Lunatic Asylum. The report is replete with interesting facts... The Superintendent has selected several cases from the recoveries of the last year, and gives a particular account... The most interesting is the following:

"No. 3. This was an interesting case... She was a lady of an amiable disposition, and of retiring modesty; but insanity left no trace of her natural character. The tenderly affectionate mother and devoted wife, became suddenly the furious maniac. During a short absence of her husband a stranger stopped at their residence, and announced himself in the double capacity of Mormon preacher and physician. After administering in the latter capacity, he commenced a harangue of a denunciatory and alarming character, uttering many of the conditional curses detailed in the 28th chapter of Deuteronomy, and denouncing, particularly upon the mother, that contained in the 53d verse. [cannibalistic infanticide] ... The result of this startling message upon a natural timidity. made more sensitive by impaired health, was to produce the greatest distress... Her husband returned to find her in a most deplorable condition, with the mere instinct of affection, struggling against the delusion of insanity... [delusional quotations from patient follow, ending with an account of her eventually recovery]

---

Mormons. -- Joseph Smith, generalisimo of the Nauvoo Legion, has issued a proclamation, ordering the Mormons in that state to vote for the Loco Foco candidates for Governor and Lieutenant Governor of that state in August next. This is a new thing under the sun.


Note: No record of the mentioned "Mormon preacher and physician" has been preserved in any other source. Evidently this case of insanity was not attributed to the diabolical machinations of Dr. John C. Bennett, practicing gynecologist and Assistant President of the LDS Church at Nauvoo.

Mormonism. -- It is stated that the Mormons are making a location in the very heart of Philadelphia -- having taken a room in the Assembly buildings, which they are about to fit up for their mummery. It is strange how readily men lend themselves to the most ridiculous impostures, but now-a-days "vive la bagetelle" means "long life to King Humbug."


Note: The above item was evidently copied from the Boston Pilot.

MORMONS IN NEW ORLEANS. --Tho Mormons have sent a deputation of elders to New Orleans -- who, for a week or two past, have been holding forth in that city. Of their success in proselyting we are not informed; but their pretensions are sufficient to work strongly upon many minds. A friend of ours was present at one of their meetings on last Sunday week -- when the lecturer announced himself as a prophet inspired from on high, possessed of the gift of all tongues and languages. He challenged to the proof of his ability, and, taken at his word, he was addressed in German, French and Spanish, and to the supprise of all, he was conversant with each of those languages. But he was not to get off so easily; a son of the Emerald isle being present, he let off a battery of pure Milesian in the richest Barney Bralligan style, which completely nonplussed the poor Mormon, and during the roars of laughter which his confusion created, he scooted. --  Mobile Herald.


Notes: (forthcoming)

MORMONISM. -- Mormon missionaries are diligently laboring in many portions of the United States, and with no little success. The Utica Gazette states that there is quite a congregation of the followers of Joe Smith in that city, and that relating visions and talking in "unknown tongues" form part of their religious exercises. The gift of tongues is conferred on little children, and when their "talk" is done an old saint gets up and translates for the satisfaction of the brethren and sisters, whose faith is greatly increased and strengthened thereby. The officiating Elder is David Blakesly, a seceder from Methodism.

The Mormons are determined to convert the world, and for that purpose are sending teachers of the Golden Bible to the "ends of the Earth." The Nauvoo Times and Seasons of the 18th ult. has a letter from Elder Orson Hyde at Jaffa, describing some of the wonderful sights he has been favored with in the far East. Elder Hyde is well known in the Lake country as a seceding Campbellite preacher and a pupil of Rigdon, now second to Joe Smith in the Mormon church. Soon after Hyde became a Mormon Elder, he publicly prophesied that in less than three years the whole country between Lake Erie and the "Promised Land" in Missouri would be a sea of waters, and that the faithful would float on it! Elder Hyde writes:

"On my passage from Beyroot to this place place (Jaffa) night before last, at one o'clock, as I was meditating on the deck of the vessel as she was beating down against a sultry wind, a very bright glittering sword appeared in the heavens, about six feet in length, with a beautiful hilt, as plain and complete as any cut you ever saw. And what is still more remarkable, an arm with a perfect hand stretched itself out, and took hold on the hilt of the sword. The appearance really made my hair rise, and the flesh, as it were, crawl on my bones. The Arabs made a wonderful outcry at the sight. Oh, Allah! Allah! Allah! was their exclamation all over the vessel. I mention this because you know there is a commandment of God for me, which says, 'Unto you it shall be given to know the signs of the times, and the sign of the coming of the Son of Man.'"
          Yours in Christ,           ORSON HYDE.


Notes: (forthcoming)

PROGRESS OF MORMONISM IN BOSTON. -- The Rev. Fivcman Nickerson, one of the Mormon Apostles, gives the following summary of the progress of that new revelations down east: --

"I commenced preaching in Boston, on the 30th of May last, in Winchester Hall, in the forenoon, and in the afternoon took a part in the free discussion, which I followed for several months, when one of the number which was called infidels, began to believe in the truth of the Old and New Testaments which the world calls Mormonism. The individual was Mr. Abijah Tewksbury, who opened his shipping office, and seated it, for free preaching. He was the first that was baptised in Boston. Three others were baptised on the 9th of January, 1842. I have held four afternoon meetings at 82 Commercial street, ever since. Thrre was a branch organized in Boston, numbering thirty, including one elder and three priests, on tha 9th of March. The great inquiry after truth still continues. Several are added to the church weekly. I have baptised in Boston and vicinity. -- Some from Maine, some have gone to sea in vessels, several in Lynn, four in Medway, and seven in Cape Cod, and all are strong in the faith, and in good standing. I have baptised in all, a little rising fifty persons. There are calls for preaching on every side. We have meetings in private houses through the city, nearly every evening. People of all classes come to hear, and it is rare that one goes away dissatisfied. The honest in heart are coming out; and I think will every one join the church. There is likewise a branch organized in Salem. Brother Snow is preaching there. His church has sixty-two members, and is increasing every week. There is one elder and one priest. Elder Magin is preaching in Petersboro, Gilson, and vicinity, where there are several branches, numbering about one hundred. -- I understand twenty have been baptised in one day. A branch has been established also, in Northhridge, of upwards of thirty members, and is on the increase; Elder Swett presides."


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Pittsburgh American says, that "Joe Smith cannot be denied the attribute of greatness." We have considered the said Jo Smith, High Priest of Mormonism, and self-styled Prophet, as the prince of Loafers. He is a man without education or genius. He has a little low cunning. His only greatness must consist in rascality. He used to live near "these diggins," and some of his "revelations" were very financierish.


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Mormons have found a new book called the Book of Abraham. It purports to have been found in the Catacombs of Egypt by an English traveller, who brought it away with twelve mummies. Joe Smith is engaged in translating this book for the Nauvoo "Times and Seasona."


Notes: (forthcoming)

A Sign in the Heavens. -- Elder Orson Hyde, a Mormon prophet, is in the Holy Land. A recent letter from him, published in the Millenial Star, England, and copied in the Times and Seasons, details a most wonderful appearance in the heavens! He says:

On my passage from Beyroot to this place (Jaffa) night before last, at one o'clock, as I was meditating on the deck of the vessel as she was beating down against a sultry wind, a very bright glittering sword appeared in the heavens, about six feet in length, with a beautiful hilt, as plain and complete as any cut you ever saw. And what is still more remarkable, an arm with a perfect hand stretched itself out, and took hold on the hilt of the sword. The appearance really made my hair rise, and the flesh, as it were, crawl on my bones. The Arabs made a wonderful outcry at the sight. Oh, Allah! Allah! Allah!* was their exclamation all over the vessel. I mention this because you know there is a commandment of God for me, which says, "Unto you it shall be given to know the signs of the times, and the sign of the coming of the Son of Man."


Note: Some students of Mormon history have speculated that Orson Hyde never traveled any closer to the Holy Land than the port of Alexanderia -- that his major purpose in going aceoss the Atlantic, was to locate and obtain a special kind of printing press, suitable for the production of counterfeit bank notes, once it had been shipped back to Nauvoo.

GOV. BOGGS. -- We hear this morning from Independence, that Gov. Boggs was still alive, and there was some probability of his ultimate recovery. St. Louis New Era, May 18.

Jo. Smith, the Mormon Prophet, is said to have been killed in an affray near Nauvoo. We have not been able to ascertain any precise information in relation to the rumor. St. Louis New Era, May 18.


Note: The second report was reprinted in the Journal's weekly edition of June 1st. This false rumor was also published in the Canton Repository of June 2nd (and retracted in its issue for June 9th).

SAINTS AND PROPHETS IN TROUBLE. -- The Evening Journal publishes a letter dated Springfield, Illinois, which represents the Mormon settlement to be subject to the pains and penalties of hard times, notwithstanding all the extraordinary sanctity of its high priests and elders. The following is an extract from the letter:

"You requested me, when I saw you last, in St. Louis, to inform you by letter directed to Philadelphia, whether Joseph Smith, the Mormon prophet had applied for the benefit of the Bankrupt Act. I have now before me the applications of the prophet, Joseph Smith, of Sidney Rigdon, and of Hiram Smith, the two last far-famed teachers of these deluded people. The debt of Smith amounts to about $100,000. I have hastily calculated it just now, and made it amount to $99,325.57. His assets consist in some notes obtained from individuals for various amounts, in some trifling household furniture, and lots in Nauvoo. I have looked diligently among the furniture for the golden Bible, but cannot see it named, in fact he has no Bible or book of any description in his inventory. The inventories and schedules of Sidney Rigdon and Hiram Smith are similar to Joseph Smith's, except that Hiram has inventoried some children's books, a Bible, and a book of Mormon. Sidney Rigdon had inventoried 1 vol. Gill's body of Divinity, 1 old family Bible, 2 books of Mormon, 1 Hebrew, 2 Greek, and 1 Latin Grammar. These are teachers -- he is the prophet.


Note: The above article was reprinted in the Journal's weekly edition of June 1st and in the Canton Repository of June 9th.

BANKRUPTS IN ILLINOIS. -- Joseph Smith, the chief prophet of the Mormons, Sidney Rigdon, and Hiram Smith, the two last far-famed teachers among the sect, have all applied for the benefit of the bankrupt act.

Joe Smith's debts amount to about $100,000, and among the assets, it is said, there is no trace of the celebrated Golden Bible, nor of any other book whatever.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE ASSASSINATION OF GOV. BOGGS. -- The St. Louis Reporter of the 14th inst. has the following rumor:

Gov. Boggs. -- We learn from a gentleman who arrived in this city on Thursday evening from Warsaw, that there was a report currant at the latter place that Gov Boggs was dead. It is supposed that the assassin was one of Joe Smith's followers, and that he would be caught before he could reach Nauvoo. -- Letters, it was said, had been written from Jefferson City to Gov. B. before his assassination, putting him on his guard against an assault threatened against his life by some Morman fanatics. The information was sent to Jefferson City by several respectable persons, who had learned from a Mormon belonging to Nauvoo, that Joe Smith had been endeavoring to persuade some of his followers to murder Gov. B. for the course he took against them a few years ago. We give the rumor for what it is worth.


Notes: (forthcoming)

The World in a Nut Shell.

Col. Pendleton, of Ohio, has introduced into Congress a bill to establish military posts in Oregon Territory... Joe Smith, the Mormon Prophet, is not dead....


Notes: (forthcoming)

MILITARY AND SCIENTIFIC. -- James Arlington Bennett, of Long Island, has been appointed Major General by Governor Carlin, of Illinois, in the Mormon Legion, and a Doctor of Laws by the Mormon University. -- N. Y. Express.

A mistake. It is John Cook Bennett, who is Major General of the Mormon Legion, and factotum of Jo. Smith. This same Dr. Bennett a few years since figured considerably in a small way in literary, military, and ecclesiastic capacities, and in various parts of Ohio. We knew him as a preacher in at least three different religious denominations before he embraced Mormonism. He boxed the political compass, and manufactured and vended literary honors! He is none of your Long Island Bennetts -- but hails from the neighborhood of Blannerhassett. So, Mr. Express, you may take away your "James Arlington" -- he is a mere child along side our John Cook.


Note 1: In 1842 Charles Scott was the sole proprietor and publisher of the Ohio State Journal, so the author of the "we knew him" remarks was probably Scott himself. If so, Scott evidently wasn't aware of James Arlington Bennett's totally separate connections with Mormonism and the Legion.

Note 2: For more on "Dr." Bennett's vending of "honors," in Ohio, see pages 18-19 of Andrew F. Smith's 1997 The Saintly Scoundrel and Ann Eliza Webb Young's 1876 Wife Number 19, page 74 (where she mentions that Bennett, "before he embraced Mormonism" was said to be "the greatest villain unhung." H. H. Bancroft, in his History of Utah, says that Bennett was: "a yankee huckster of the first class -- only for his merchandise, instead of patent clocks and wooden nutmegs, he offers for sale theology, medicine, and a general assortment of political and military wares. The thing is a fraud, and before long he openly announces himself as such. As his manhood is far inferior to his duplicity, so his name, the Reverend General John C. Bennett, M. D., U. S. A., president, chancellor, and master in chancery, as we may observe, is subordmate to his titles. He has ability, he has brains and fingers; but he has no soul."

The Mormon Bible is said to have been written for amusement in 1812 by Rev. Solomon Spaulding, who then lived at New Salem, Ohio. Sidney Rigdon worked in the office, [and probably] copied the original manuscript.


Note: The year 1842 saw a temporary increase in news items mentioning Solomon Spalding as the originator of the Book of Mormon. Perhaps this was due to the fact that three or four significant books on the Mormons appeared that year. At any rate, by 1842 it had become the accepted "conventional wisdom," that Sidney Rigdon once worked as a printer in the office where Spalding's manuscript was submitted for publication. Rigdon's early connection with the Patterson publishing operations in Pittsburgh was something less substantial than full time employment. At most, he peddled leather book-bindings to their printer, Silas Engles. That small fact did not deter overzealous reporters and editors from coming up with news items such as the above report, however.

JOE SMITH COWHIDED. -- It seems the report we gave some time since of the killing of Joe Smith, the redoubtable Mormon prophet, originated in the fact that he had a quarrel with some ot his followers as to the amount of tithes they should pay him to keep up his dignity, in the course of which Joe got pretty severely cowhided. Joe ought never to have gone into bankruptcy. The Nauvoo people have thus found out that he is subject to mortal infirmities, after all; so they are carrying out the "golden Bible" doctrine of equality by thrashing him into good behavior.


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Mormons. -- The good old city of Salem, (Mass.) that pattern place in the land of steady habits, has been invaded by the Mormons, and strange to say, upwards eighty converts have been made. Meetings are now held frequently and crowds flock to listen to the strange doctrines of the "latter day saints."   Weekly Economist.


Notes: (forthcoming)

SAINTS AND PROPHETS IN TROUBLE. -- The Evening Journal publishes a letter dated Springfield, Illinois, which represents the Mormon settlement to be subject to the pains and penalties of hard times, notwithstanding all the extraordinary sanctity of its high priests and elders. The following is an extract from the letter:

"You requested me, when I saw you last, at St. Louis, to inform you by letter directed to Philadelphia, whether Joseph Smith, the Mormon prophet had applied for the benefit of the Bankrupt Act. I have now before me the applications of the prophet, Joseph Smith, of Sidney Rigdon, and of Hiram Smith, the two last far-famed teachers of these deluded people. The debts of Smith amount to about $100,000. I have hastily calculated it just now, and made it amount to $99,325.27. His assets consist in some notes obtained from individuals for various amounts, in some trifling household furniture, and lots in Nauvoo. I have looked dilligently among the furniture for the golden Bible, but cannot see it named, in fact he has no Bible or book of any description in his inventory. The inventories and schedules of Sidney Rigdon and Hiram Smith are similar to Joseph Smith's except that Hiram has inventoried some children's books, a Bible, and book of Mormon. Sidney Rigdon had inventoried 1 vol. of Gill's body of Divinity, 1 old family Bible, 2 books of Mormon, 1 Hebrew, 2 Greek, and 1 Latin Grammar. These are teachers -- he is the prophet."


Note 1: Other newspaper reprints specify that the Springfield writer's letter to Winthrop Atwill's Philadelphia Evening Journal was dated May 10, 1842. It was evidently published about ten days later and conveyed no more information than is found in its various reprints.

Note 2: Later in 1842, John C. Bennett took Smith to task for bankruptcy fraud, but his allegations in the pages of the Sangamo Journal appear to have raised no questions among the state government auditors at Springfield. An examination of the county real estate records, at the court house in Carthage, Illinois, indicates that Smith transferred some of his most valuable lots in Nauvoo, into the names of his wife and minor children shortly before making out his bankruptcy declaration in 1842. No doubt the Democratic "movers and shakers" in Springfield had more important things to do than examine the finances of their Democrat-voting associates in Nauvoo. William Smith, then a member of the Illinois Legislature, may have lobbied among the Whig representatives to also "look the other way."

“WHAT A FALL WAS THERE
MY COUNTRY-MEN.”

It will be seen by the following, that the Major General of the Nauvoo legion, Chancellor of the University at Nauvoo, Judge Douglass' Master in Chancery, and author of Lieutenant General Joe Smiths Proclamation, directing the Mormons to vote the Loco Foco Ticket for Governor and Lieutenant Governor, in pursuance of a contract made in the winter of 1840-41, witli the leaders of the Loco Foco party, in consideration for certain chartered privileges granted them, is excommunicated from the Mormon Church. It is now an undoubted fact, that the reports which have been in circulation in relation to Dr. Bennett are true. -- Sangamo Journal.

NOTICE.

The subscribers, member of the First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, withdraw the hand of fellowship from General John C. Bennett, as a christian, he having been labored with from time to time, to persuade him to amend his conduct, apparently to no good effect.
                                    JOSEPH SMITH,
                                    HYRUM SMITH,
                                    WM. LAW.
(This notice is also signed by the Quorem of Twelve, and the three Bishops.)

Notes: (forthcoming)

ILLINOIS.

The prevailing ism in Illinois now, is Mormonism. The union between the Mormons and Locofocos is complete, and Mormonism and Locofocoism means nearly one and the same thing. The Whigs, however, under the banner of the gallant Duncan, will be the death of them, in August.


Notes: (forthcoming)

TROUBLES AMONG THE MORMONS. -- This band of outlaws and duped fanatics are getting into trouble among themselves. The commander-in-chief of the Mormon army, and the "prophet," the notorious Joe Smith, have quarrtled, and the latter worthy, it is stated, is plotting the death of the general. The following letter, addressed to the editor of the Burlington Hawk-eye, is Bennet's account of the difficulty:

NAUVOO, ILL., June 27, 1842.          

MR. EDWARDS: -- In your paper of the 23d you alluded to the "trouble among the Mormons," and expressed a desire or hope that "the schism is incurable," and I assure you that it is really so. -- The holy Joe fears the consequences of my disclosures, and has threatened to take my life, and has ordered some of his band to effect the murder clandestinely -- but he shall be exposed. If he murders me others will avenge my blood, and expose him; if I live, I will do it to the entire satisfaction of all. Just suspend your judgment for a few days until you see my expose in the Sangamo Journal of next week, or the week following, over my own name.

Yours, respectfully,       
JOHN C. BENNETT.       

Notes: (forthcoming)

==> It seems that there is a tremendous flare-up brewing in the Mormon church. Rigdon, Robinson, and others, Joe Smith's right-hand men, have left him, and talk of setting up for themselves. It appears too, that they are telling tales out of school, or out of the church, which amounts to the same thing, and pretty startling tales too. The last Warsaw Signal says:

One disclosure particularly will prove interesting -- and that is in relation to Boggs's murder. -- Bennett states that A. P. Rockwood started suddenly from Nauvoo, about two weeks before Boggs's assassination; that he (Bennett) asked Joe where Rockwood had gone; and that Joe replied, that 'he had gone to Missouri to fulfil prophecies!!' He says further, that Rockwood returned to Nauvoo on the very day that the news of Governor Boggs' assassination arrived. Since that, the Prophet has presented said Rockwood with a carriage and horse, or horses; and he has suddenly become very flush of money, and lives in style. These statements we give as we received them. It is said that Bennett has affidavits to prove every fact stated, and will shortly present them to the world. If this be true, there will but little doubt remain, that Joe Smith was the real instigator of Boggs's assassination.


Note: The original Warsaw Signal report gave the name of the would-be assassin as "Mr. Rockwell." As it turns out, O. P. Rockwell and A. P. Rockwood were two entirely different Mormon Elders, both living in Nauvoo at this time.

Trouble among the Mormons. -- The Mormon leaders at Nauvoo have got into a snarl, and some precious revelations touching the prophet Jo. Smith, are promised. The quarrel is between Smith, Rigdon, and Gen. John C. Bennett. The latter has been Commander in Chief of the Nauvoo Legion, and has possessed in an eminent degree, the confidence of Jo Smith. A letter from Bennett published in the last Burlington Hawkeye, shows that the schism is incurable, and that disclosures are forthcoming. Bennett says: --

"The holy Joe fears the consequence of my disclosures, and has threatened to take my life, and has ordered some of his Danite band to effect the murder clandestinely -- but he shall be exposed. If he murders me, others will avenge my blood, and expose him; If I live, I will do it to the entire satisfaction of all. Just suspend your judgment a few days until you see my expose in the "Sangamo Journal" of next week, or the week following, over my own name."
                              Cleve Herald.

Notes: (forthcoming)

==> John C. Bennett, the commander in chief of the Mormon Legion, has quarrelled with Joe Smith, and now threatens to expose Smith's impositions. He says that Smith threatens to kill him.

Notes: (forthcoming)

The World in a Nut Shell.

John Cook Bennett, late general and commander in chief has quarrelled with Joe Smith, the Mormon Prophet and is now publishing charges against Smith of all kinds of villainy, particularly of adultery, in which he gives [cases] and names, & gives what he believes is the evidence to prove that Joe sent a Mormon to kill Boggs of Missouri. The details are horrible. Great commotion exists at Nauvoo & it is said several of Joe's right hand men have joined Bennett's party. Bennett promises further developments.

Notes: (forthcoming)

MORMONS. -- Lucifer is enjoying himself among the Mormons. Gen. Bennett has been excommunicated, and is out in the newspapers with an exposition of the enormities practiced by "holy Joe" and his disciples, charging them with all manner of licentiousness. Joe turns upon his accuser, and alleges that he is every thing that is vile and wicked. The probability is, that a gang of moe arrant villains than these same Mormon leaders was never assembled together before.

Their infatuated followers cannot much longer be deluded, so that we may soon expect to hear of the dissolution of that strange and superstitious sect.


Notes: (forthcoming)

JOE  SMITH  AND  HIS  VILLAINY.

This graceless scamp and imposter, we trust will soon get his deserts. A more monstrous imposition was never practised upon humanity, than Joe Smith's wretched Mormonism, which so deeply infects portions of the western country. One Bennett, a sort of leader or chief "bottle holder" to Joe, has seceded from the concern, and the exposition he makes of Mormonism and its vile practices, should cause a torrent of indignation to come about his head. Bennett says Smith stands indicted for murder, treason, burglary and arson, in Missouri, and he defies the laws and legal constituted authorities to deliver him over for trial. Bennett has published a long list of charges against the Mormon leader, from which we extract the following:

"Joseph Smith, the great Mormon seducer, one who has seduced not only hundreds of single and married females, but more than the great Solomon, attempted to seduce Miss Nancy Rigdon, the eldest single daughter of Sidney Rigdon, to submit to his hellish purposes, and become one of his clandestine wives under the new dispensation. Call upon Miss Rigdon, who repulsed him with commendable firmness, and I will abide her testimony -- call, likewise, upon Gen. George W. Robinson, and Col. F. M. Higbee, to state what they know upon this subject. Gen. Robinson and Col. Higbee, can tell some astounding facts in relation to this matter. Joe approached Miss Rigdon "in the name of the Lord, and by his authority and permission," as he said. Joe attacked Mr. Rigdon, Gen. Robinson, Col. Higbee and myself, In order to destroy the influence of all of us to prevent the exposition of this case. -- But it is all true, and the legal evidence shall be forthcoming. Call upon Miss Martha Brotherton, of Warsaw, and see what she will say as to the base attempt at seduction in her own case. She can tell a tale of woe that would make humanity shudder. Call upon Miss Mitchell, of this city, one of the most chaste and spotless females in the west, and see what she knows as to the PROPHET'S SECRET WIVES. Hundreds of cases can be instanced, and if the Danites do not murder me, you shall hear a tale of pollution and sorrow. Joe's licentiousness is unparalleled in the annals of time. I have the evidence, and it shall come; and no attacks on me to divert the public mind from himself, and his iniquity shall avail him. My purpose is fixed, and the world shall know who the great impostor is. -- Time will not permit my going into further detail in this letter; but an abused and insulted public shall know all about it."

---

MORMONISM  UNVEILED.

Nauvoo. -- We understand that the very mischief is brewing in Nauvoo, since the threatening of Bennett to expose the villainy of Joe and his satellites. Several of Joe's right hand men, among them, one of the Pratts, G. W. Robinson and Sidney Rigdon, have left the church and joined Bennett's party.

One disclosure particularly will prove interesting -- and that is in relation to Boggs's murder. Bennett states that A. P. Rockwood started suddenly from Nauvoo, about two weeks before Bogg's assassination; that he (Bennett) asked Joe where Rockwood had gone; and that Joe replied, that "he had gone to Missouri to fulfil prophecies!!!" He says further, that Rockwood returned to Nauvoo on the very day that the news of Governor Boggs' assassination arrived. Since that, the Prophet has presented said Rockwood with a carriage and horse, or horses; and he has suddenly become very flush of money, and lives in style. These statements we give as we received them. It is said that Bennett has affidavits to prove every fact above stated, and will shortly present them to the world. If this be true, there will but little doubt remain, that Joe Smith was the real instigator of Boggs's assassination.

We have seen Gen. Bennett, who says the above statement is strictly true, with the exception of the name of the assassin; which is O. P. Rockwell, and that Rockwell arrived at Nauvoo the day previous to the arrival of the news of Gov. Bogg's assassination.

An attempt has been made to assassinate Bennett -- after he had threatened to make his exposure, and a day or two before he left Nauvoo a carriage drove up to his residence with its wheels muffled and the horses' hoofs wrapped to prevent noise -- with several Mormons dressed as women, but Bennett was prepared to receive them, and they went off without molesting him.   St. Louis Bull.


Note: The John C. Bennett report, alleging that Joseph Smith had sent O. P. Rockwell to kill Liliburn W. Boggs, in order to "fulfil prophecy," was first printed in the July 9, 1842 issue of the Warsaw Signal. On July 12, 1842 the St. Louis Missouri Republican printed a garbled, two paragraph version of the news, giving the erroneous name of "A. P. Rockwood" in re-telling the story from the Signal. The name matter was cleared up somewhat when the St. Louis Bulletin ran the Republican's two garbled paragraphs and appended its own comments (in the last two paragraphs of the above item). Evidently this clarification appeared in the July 13th issue of the Bulletin, but the item has not yet been located for confirmation. In its number of July 14 issue the Bulletin published John C. Bennett's allegations in much greater detail.

Indecency.

If there is any "Moral Reform Society" in Cincinnati, we would advise it to look into the condition of the Gazette of that city. Its very decent and modest publications of Bennett and Joe Smith, the Mormon apostles, require a strong stomach.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE MORMONS. -- The Sangamo Journal of the 15th is filled to overflowing with exposures of Mormon villainies. It contains, among other things, two more letters from J. C. Bennet, giving further details of Joseph Smith's licentiousness and rascality, and charging him distinctly with having instigated and caused the attempted assasination of Governor Boggs. Benet says that the man who shot Governor Boggs is a Mormon named Rockwell, and that he was sent by Smith to do it.

The Journal also gives, from the Kaskaskia Republican, a long account of a murder committed on the 2d of June, upon Stephenson -- a Mormon -- and supposed to have been committed by two Mormons who had called upon him for contributions to build the temple at Nauvoo and been refused.

Another article in the Journal we quote verbatim: "We have late information from Nauvoo. Joe Smith anticipates a requisition upon Governor Carlin from Governor Reynolds of Missouri, for his person; and is determined not to be given up.

"He has all the State Arms, -- some twenty or thirty cannons -- a large number of muskets, daggers, pistols, and cutlasses -- all belonging to the State, which he is prepared to use against the State authorities if they shall attempt to deliver him to Governor Reynolds. Joe states that he will not be given up -- and the Mormons say that the Prophet shall not be taken while any of them are left to defend him!"

---

The World in a Nut Shell.

...Joe Smith, the Mormon prophet, has replied to John C. Bennett's expsose of his conduct, pronouncing him a liar, black hearted villain and unworthy of belief on oath. Bennett in his recent publications against Joe, is attempting to prove fraud in his application for the benefit of the Bankrupt act; and in his last says Joe's tools have made an attempt to destroy him...

---

==> Gen. Bennett, late of Nauvoo, has gone to the East, to publish a history of Mormonism.


Notes: (forthcoming)

LATE  ELECTIONS.

Illinois -- In this repudiating state the Locos, as usual, have carried the state. The exact majority is not ascertained. The Mormons united with the Locos. Our old friend John Bailhache, former editor of the Ohio State Journal, is elected to the Legislature from Madison county....


Notes: (forthcoming)

Illinois.

Nauvoo, the seat of the Mormon faith, gave Ford, the Loco Foco candidate for Governor, at the recent election 1,037 votes, and Duncan the Whig candidate 6! It is now supposed that Mormonism will be declared the established religion of the State.


Notes: (forthcoming)

JOE SMITH & CO. -- The St. Louis Republican has intelligence from Nauvoo that Gov. Carlin of Illinois has resolved to comply with the requisitions of the Governer of Missouri, and deliver up Jo Smith, and A. [sic] P. Rockwell, who it is charged was employed by Smith to assassinate Ex-Gov, Boggs. Smith and Rockwell were arrested, but the prisoners were released on a habeas corpus issued by some of the Mormon authorities at Nauvoo. Further attempts were made to get possession of the Prophet and Rockwell, but they could not be found. Smith, it was supposed, would go to England.


Note: The above item was reprinted in the newspaper's weekly issue of Aug. 31st, and in the Painesville Telegraph of the same date.

JOE SMITH & CO. -- The St. Louis Republican has intelligence from Nauvoo that Gov. Carlin of Illinois has resolved to comply with the requisition of the Governor of Missouri, to deliver up Jo Smith, and A. [sic] P. Rockwell, who it is charged was employed by Smith to assassinate Ex-Gov. Boggs. Smith and Rockwell were arrested, but the prisoners were released on a habeas corpus issued by some of the Mormon authorities at Nauvoo. Further attempts were made to get possession of the prophet and Rockwell, but they could not be [found]. Smith, it was supposed, would go to England. -- Clev. Her.


Notes: (forthcoming)

HIGHLY IMPORTANT FROM THE MORMON WORLD. --
MILITARY CALLED OUT -- FLIGHT OF THE PROPHET.

We have received news of a very late date from Nauvoo, the seat of the Great Prophet Joe Smith, and from Quincy, Ill., from which we learn, that since the election, Governor Carlin has resolved to comply with the requesition of the Gov. of Missouri, and deliver up Joe Smith and A. [sic] P. Rockwell. The Sheriff of Hancock county, elected at the recent election, being a Mormon, the writ was placed in the hands of the Sheriff of Adams county. The Sheriff repaired to Nauvoo and rested Smith and Rockwell, when a habeas corpus, was issued by some of the Nauvoo authorities, and the prisoners taken out of the Sheriff's custody and released. The sheriff has just returned to Quincy and reported the facts. Our informant says that it was currently reported, while he was writing, that Gov. Carlin was then in the act of issuing orders, calling out the military, to enforce the arrest, and it was expected they would march on the following day for Nauvoo.


Notes: (forthcoming)

MORMONS. -- After getting the Mormon votes, gov. Carlin of Illinois, on the requisition of the Governor of Missouri, issued a writ for the apprehension of Joe Smith and O. P. Rockwell. to answer to the charge of attempting to assassinate ex-Governor Boggs. They were arrested; and under the pretence of examination at Nauvoo, under a base law granted to Nauvoo by the locos, they escaped and could not be found at our last dates.


Notes: (forthcoming)

==> Joe Smith and Rockwell have not been found at our latest dates from Nauvoo, the Mormon city.

Notes: (forthcoming)

Medary's Last Shift -- The Mormon and
Infidel Appeal to the Churches.

If there could be any thing, in these extraordinary times, more disgustingly absurd or more superlatively ridiculous than any thing else that has ever before marked the features of our political contests, it is the freshly conceived idea, on the part of the leaders of the Loco Focos, of affecting a tone and air of piety and morality -- of "assuming a virtue though they have it not" -- and in that garb, of calling upon the "religious portion of the Whig party," to desert their political standard, and rally under that to which they have always been opposed....


Note: Despite this editorial's reference to "Mormon" hypocrisy in "affecting a tone and air of piety and morality," nothing specific is said about that sect -- probably because the topic under discussion was Ohio politics and not Illinois politics.

==> The Missouri Reporter, of the 7th, says: "It is rumored that Joe Smith has been arrested, and is now in the hands of the proper officials, awaiting his trial."


Notes: (forthcoming)

DECISION  ON  THE RIGHTS OF PARENTS,
_______

... If every child, under a claim founded upon the supposed rights of conscience, were allowed to carry into effect every decision of its immature judgment, where is this to end? Shall it be allowed under this pretense, to violate the law of God? to repudiate the Christian religion to become a Jew or a Mahomedan? -- Or, retaining the Christian name, shall it be allowed to mingle with the battle-axe community, who make it a matter of conscience to disregard the holy institution of marriage? -- Or, upon this pretense, shall the beloved daughter of a Christian parent, in a moment of delusion, and in the tender years of her minority, be allowed to become one of the secret wives of the Mormon Prophet...


Note: The modern student of Mormonism may find it rather perplexing to notice such very early references to Joseph Smith's polygamy in the public press, on one hand, and then, on the other hand, to encounter large numbers of Reorganized LDS who claim that such "secret wives" were unknown among the Nauvoo Saints, until Brigham Young led them to Utah, and there supposedly concocted Mormon polygamy. Accusations of polygamy among the Mormons and/or their top leaders, were evidently common enough as early as 1835, so as to merit a mention in the Kirtland edition of the Doctrine and Covenants. By 1842, pious writers were lecturing readers in the popular prints, not to let their young daughters be seduced into the harem of Joe Smith in his kingdom on the Mississippi.

JOE SMITH. -- A few days since, an angel appeared in the streets of Nauvoo and summoned the people to meet in the temple at 10 o'clock, A. M., the next day, as Joseph Smith would then make his descent from Heaven after three week's absence, and make a proclamation from the Lord. Accordingly about 10,000 persons, (men, women and children,) assembled at the hour and there was a deathlike stillness when the prophet made his appearance, as by some mysterious power, and commenced a thrilling appeal, stating the whole of his interview wiih the Lord, who told him to drop all idea of supporting himself by physical force and to put his confidence in God alone. He was furthermore told that the Mormons would be a persecuted people for many years to come, bin they would finally triumph. And, in order to hasten that important event, there must, within three days, be sent out 300 preachers of th e gospel to convert the world; and they must take with them neither script, nor staff, nor any thing else except the bare necessaries of life for the moment. Accordingly, in two days, the complement was made out, and in three, they were on their march from the holy city. The Lord told Smith that the Missourians would trouble him much, but he never would fall into their hands. So it appears that Joe Smith is not dead yet, and that the Mormons are yet prospering as fast as any denomination in the State. -- Chicago Democrat.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Mormonism  Revived.

The Mormon temple, at Kirtland has lately been dedicated anew. On Saturday, the 29th ult., three of Joe Smith's specially commissioned and faithful followers arrived at the temple from Nauvoo, and commenced preaching faith and repentance. The Sunday morning following, they commenced baptizing in a branch of the Chagrin river, and continued at intervals for three days -- baptizing in all two hundred and six persons, at two shillings a head! Old converts were rebaptized, and their sins washed away for the same price as the young ones, making no distinction between old sheep and the lambs of the flock.


Note: The exact date of the above report is unknown. The text is taken from a reprint in the Dec. 16, 1842 issue of the Peoria Register.

Mormonism Revived. -- The Mormon Temple at Kirtland has lately been dedicated anew to God, and the wand of the Prophet has been waking the dry bones in that valley. On Saturday the 19th ult., three of Joe Smith's specially commissioned and faithful followers arrived at the Temple from Nauvoo, and commenced preaching faith and repentance. The Sunday morning following at 8 o'clock, they commenced baptizing in a branch of the Chagrin River, and continued at intervals for three days -- baptizing in all 206 persons, at two shillings a head! Old converts were re-baptized, and their sins washed away, making no distinction between old sheep, and the lambs of the flock.

A strange world, this!   Plain Dealer,


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Liverpool Albion states that the [emigration of] "Mormons, or Latter Day Saints," from that port, is daily increasing. Notwithstanding the rascalities of their apostle, Joe Smith, having been so often denounced and exposed, these well meaning but deluded enthusiasts continue to leave their native country by hundreds, in order to swell the number of his dupes on this side of the Atlantic. The class of persons thus emigrating are represented to be in appearance and worldly circumstances above the run of ordinary steerage passengers. The bulk of them are from the midland counties -- farmers and farmers' servants, with their wives and families. Upwards of 5000 have already emigrated, and an equal number will probably leave before spring. As no better freight is offering, the New Orleans vessels are taking these disciples of the knavish blacksmith, at a very low figure. The Sydney, for instance, only received £ 115 for 180 of the Mormons, while the Henry had agreed to carry 140 for £ 100 -- little more than fifteen shillings a head!


Note: This newspaper continues the previous Independent Treasury.

NAUVOO.

A gentleman just arrived from Nauvoo, states that whole families at a time, were continually leaving that place. -- The delusion appeared to be on the decline. Our informant describes the houses as small and mean looking log, board and sod shanties. The Temple is to be large -- should it ever be built; but at present the foundation only is laid. Joe Smith keeps the only store of any consequence, and of course he monopolizes most of the trading profits. The whole matter is a system, as he conceives, of cruel and heartless deception, selecting victims not only in this country, but even more extensively in England. -- Phila. Chronicle.


Notes: (forthcoming)

MORMONS. -- The ship Henry arrived at New Orleans, on the 20th ult., with a number of Mormons on board from England. An officer and ten men belonging to the U. S. cutter Woodbury, were also on board to preserve order, as some of Joe Smith's followers were charged with munity by the Captain of the Henry. The Picayune in describing them says: --

Like those of their "order," they seem to have endured their share of those privations which have been the parent of riots, "strikes," and chartistism in England; like them they appear to be people of very limited intelligence, and like them easily made the dupes of designing men and the believers of doctrines however absurd, particularly such as give promise of an improvement of their temporal condition.


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Racine (Wisconson) Advocate, quotes the following particulars of the persons frozen to death in November on the Illinois prairie:

Frozen to Death.

"Mr. Alpheus Harmon and his nephew Orsey Harmon, were frozen to death on Thursday, the 17th ult, on the open prairie between Carthage and Nauvoo, about seven miles from the latter place. They were travelling across the prairie towards Nauvoo with an ox team and wagon, and it is supposed they became bewildered in the storm. Mr. Alpheus Harmon was found on the Saturday following, a few rods from the wagon, and his nephew a young man, was not found until the following Monday. -- It appears he had wandered some two miles from the wagon before he perished. The oxen had been detached from the wagon and were found in a grove on the border of the prairie. One of the above mentioned (Mr. A. Harmon,) was a preacher of the Mormon faith, and one of the three hundred preachers who were commissioned some months ago by Joseph Smith to spread the doctrines of Mormonism. He had made the tour through Indiana on the objects of his mission, and was returning to the city of the latter day saints -- he had a wife and nine children in Nauvoo who were anxiously awaiting his return, but while yet a short space intervened between him and his domestic fireside, death arrested him on his homeward journey. -- The aforementioned particulars we gather from a letter written at Nauvoo, to a brother of the deceased in this village."


Note: See also the New-York Spectator of Dec. 28, 1842.

Nauvoo. -- A gentleman just arrived from Nauvoo, informs the Editor of the Philadelphia Inquirer, that whole families at a time, were continually leaving that place. The delusion appeared to be on the decline. Our informant describes the houses as small and mean looking log, board and sod shanties. The Temple is to be large, should it ever be built, but at present the foundation only is laid. Joe Smith keeps the only store of any consequence, and of course he monopolizes most of the trading profits. The whole matter is a system, as he conceives, of cruel and heartless deception selecting victims not only in this country, but even more extensively in England.


Notes: (forthcoming)

FROZEN TO DEATH. -- Mr. Alpheus Harmon and his nephew Orsey Harmon, were frozen to death on Thursday, the 17th ult., on the open prairie between Carthage and Nauvoo, Illinois, about seven miles from the latter place. They were travelling across the prairie toards Nauvoo, with an ox team and wagon, and it is supposed they became bewildered in the storm. Mr. Harmon was one of the three hundred preachers commissioned by Joe Smith to preach the Mormon faith.


Notes: (forthcoming)

A Mormon Miracle Knocked in the Head.

One of Joe Smith's holy clan finding that the disclosure of Mormonism by Bennett, had had the the effect of shaking the faith of his followers, determined to set his brain to work to invent a scheme how to recover the lost confidence of his congregation, cost what it might. For this purpose he procured a dove and taught the bird to fly to him, and eat from his ears, in which he placed the grains that served for his daily food. Having, as he thought, sufficiently trained the bird, he gave out that on the next Sabbath after lecturing he would prove by a miracle that he was a Prophet of God. The day came -- the meeting house was crowded; one of Erin's unsophisticated sons had been procured under promise of eternal secrecy to hide himself in the garret, and to let the messenger of peace fly at the word of command. All was arranged -- with a countenance lit up with confidence of success, the Latter Day Saint began his exhortation; pronounced Bennett a scroundrel, a liar and impostor; and to prove his assertions, he with a loud voice, called on Heaven to send down its holy spirit in the form of a dove, as it appeared hovering over our Saviour when baptised in the river Jordan. A dead silence prevailed: -- each eye was fixed with a superstitious awe on the excited prophet, who with extended arms loudly called for the Holy Ghost. Again and again he called, but still no answer was made; at last, fearful that his Hibernian agent in the loft had not heard him, he fairly burst forth, as he frantically clapped his hands and stamped his foot. "Holy Ghost, appear!"

When lo! and behold! the Irishman's red phiz protruded through a crack of the ceiling and addressed the discomfited prophet in this wise:

"Arrah, be Jasus, how can the Holy Ghost be making his appearance? Hasn't the cat ate him?   -- Mills Point Herald.


Note 1: The story of the designing preacher and his trained "holy" dove (untimely eaten by a cat or rat) was an old piece of American folklore appropriated by anti-Mormon writers to typify what they saw as the hoax of Joseph Smith's Mormonism -- no matter whether or not Smith and his saintly associates ever actually engaged in such outrageous conduct. Just such an account appeared in the columns of the Cincinnati Enquirer early in 1843. The Enquirer's dubious report may have been the first time the trained dove story was coupled with an account of the religion of Joseph Smith. The basic premise of the scene was not alien to Mormonism, however. Smith himself described the bird figure in his 1842 publication of the "Book of Abraham" graphics as a the Holy Ghost descending in the form of a dove. And, in a portion of the Book of Mormon supposedly written six centuries before the birth of Christianity, the ancient writer Nephi says "the Holy Ghost descended upon him in the form of a dove."

Note 2: A person whose identity was "withheld for prudential reasons" in Arthur B. Deming's Naked Truths No. 2 applies the time-worn dove tale to the scene of Smith's pulpit speech at the dedication of the Kirtland Temple. Two other of Deming's "witnesses," Stephen H. Hart and Mrs. Barber provide similar accounts. The Syracuse Empire State Democrat ran a series of "Mormon Anecdotes," of the same genre, beginning in its issue for July 20, 1844.

In 1842 the statistics of the Methodist Church was as follows: They have 33 Conferences; traveling preachers 4233; local [preachers] 7621; communicants 1,003, 901... Mormonites 19,000; Shakers, Moravians and Swedenborgians from 5 to 6,000 each. -- ... Joseph Smith, the Mormon Prophet, has been arrested on a charge of being accessary to the attempt to kill ex-governor Boggs of Missouri, tried and acquitted -- ...


Notes: (forthcoming)

A false Spirit at Nauvoo. -- In the last number of Joe Smith's Times and Seasons," we find an account of a "false spirit," named Oliver Olney, who was recently tried "by the High Council, and disfellowshipped, because he would not have his writings tested by the word of God; evidently proving that he loves darkness rather than light, because his deeds are evil." Since his expulsion from the Church, he has been engaged in a campaign against Mormonism, and has been one of Bennett's right hand men -- he was also one of the contributors to the columns of the "Sangamo Journal," making, or professing to make, a great expose of the corrupt principles of Mormonism. It appears that this Olney broke into and robbed Joe Smith's store of upwards of one thousand dollars worth of property; he was arrested and openly confessed the whole circumstance of the theft; he, however, excaped from the officers who were carrying him to the county jail. Olney is represented as a large, powerful, athletic man. He was for a long time a member of the Nauvoo church, and always maintained a consistent character. The Times and Seasons has the following remarks respecting him. "Having become loosed from the moorings of eternal truth, and been dashing about on the waves of superstition, fanaticism and uncertainty, he became a fit subject to be duped by the notorious Bennett, and it would seem has been too apt a scholar to his teaching until he has become engulphed in the whirlpool of destruction; and he now stands as a lasting monument of folly and disgrace to those who may be tempted to tread in his footsteps." The Times and Seasons says, all they want in Nauvoo is a prison for rogues or "false spirits."


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE MORMONS. -- In the Illinois Legislature on the 27th ult., the Senate repealed the law creating the Nauvoo military corps. They also repealed the charter of the Mormon city of Nauvoo.


Note: The above report was a false one -- the Nauvoo charters remained in effect until several months after the death of Joseph Smith, Jr.

MORMONISM. -- The Locos of Illinois, having no longer any use for Mormon support, are about depriving their allies of the privileges granted them for and in consideration of that support. A bill to repeal the charter of Nauvoo and disband the Legion has passed the Senate of that State.


Note: This is a false report with some basis in fact. Hancock Co. rep. William Smith (brother of Joseph) and his political allies in the Illinois Legislature derailed the 1843 proposition to amend the Mormon charters. Previously William had posed as a pseudo-Whig, but he and the vast majority of the Nauvooites were block-voting "Locos" (Democrats). The Mormons' Democratic allies in Springfield kept the charters proposal a dead issue until well after the assassination of William's two older brothers in June of 1844.

JOE SMITH -- THE MORMONS. -- The following is the first intelligence we have for some time had, from the Mormon Prophet and his followers. We quote from a letter published in the Cincinnati Gazette, dated at Burlington, Iowa, April 23d.

Jo Smith, the Mormon Prophet, has lately laid out another town, about 3 miles below this, on the Illinois side of the river. He came up last fall in great pomp, with some three or four hundred of his deluded followers, and consecrated the spot. They are now busily engaged erecting improvements; some three hundred new emigrants were landed there yesterday, from variois parts of the world, principally England and Scotland. -- The call the new place "Chocokon," being the Indian name for "Flint Stone." Nauvoo, the great city of "the Latter Day Saints," is about twenty-five miles below this, and is continually receiving large additions to its numbers.


Note: The journal of the notable Mormon, Amasa M. Lyman, says: "The following winter [1842-43] I was engaged by the Prophet to move my family to Shockequon [Shoquoquon/Shockoquon], in Henderson County, where he had bought some property, I repaired to the place where I superintended the surveying of the town site and commenced building. I remained here until the following summer, of 1843, when the Prophet was kidnapped, when I participated in the efforts that resulted in his rescue."

SOMETHING NEW. -- A new delusion has broken out, says the Davenport Gazette, near the western part of this Territory (Iowa,) which will perhaps occasion surprise, and throw Joe Smith into the shades. A Mr. Hinkle, who is said to have formerly been a Mormon, but left them, has located himself near Blue Grass and been propagating a new religion. Four have already been baptized in this man's opinions, which are after this manner: After baptism he lays his hands upon their heads, when they receive power from on high to prophesy, cure the sick, heal the lame, and perform miracles as did the Apostles. In their meeting they give the holy kiss, wash one another's feet, &c.


Notes: This Repository item appears to paraphrase first known mention of Elder G. M. Hinkle and his followers in the public press -- an article in the June 3, 1843 issue of the Lee County Democrat. The Davenport Gazette report must have appeared at about the same time. In the Aug. 1844 issue of Hinkle's The Ensign the editor responded to the Gazette's hope "that this society will profit by the error of the Mormons, and refrain from taking part with the politics of their country."

NAUVOO. -- The editor of the Cuyhoga 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 by fresh converts to a wicked system of delusion. The great temple, estimated to cost half a million of dollars, has advanced about 14 feet in its walls.


Note: The Ohio State Journal, in its issue for July 5, 1843, also printed this article.

About four hundred Mormon men and women with about one hundred children passed down the Ohio river, bound for Nauvoo on the 10th ult., a few days before another party of them not quite so large went down. They were principally from New York and New England.

---

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


Notes: (forthcoming)

A gentleman from Peoria reports that Joe Smith passed through that place on Wednesday last, for Springfield. He was in a carriage, in the custody of officers, and they crossed the ferry without stopping in town. The steamboat Maid of Iowa passed Peoria on Tuesday, and could not have reached Ottawa until after Joe Smith had started for Springfield.

We are told, and it is stated on the authority of a leading Mormon preacher now in this city, that half a dozen citizens of Missouri participated in the arrest of Joe Smith; that when this was accomplished, Joe procured writs to be issued against them, which were executed, and not being able to give bail, they were put in prison; that the Missourians sent an express, and secured the person of Joe Smith; and that it was to meet this body of men that large numbers of the Nauvoo Legion were despatched for Ottawa, by land and water. -- St. Louis Era, July 1st.


Notes: (forthcoming)

A MUSEUM AT NAUVOO. -- The organ of the Mormons at Nauvoo, addresses a few words "to the Saints of all nations," respecting a Museum of curiosities which the prophet is anxious to establish. The invitation is as follows:

"According to a Revelation, received not long since, it appears to be the duty of the members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, to bring to Nauvoo, their precious things, such as antiquities, and, we may say, curiosities, whether animal, vegetable, or metallic, yea, petrifactions as well as inscriptions and hieroglyphics, for the purpose of establishing a Museum of the great things of God, and the inventions of man, at Nauvoo."


Note: History does not record whether or not the "Prophet" at Nauvoo desired to include the recently advertised (June, 1843) Kinderhook plates among the "inscriptions and hieroglyphics" and "the great things of God" in this proposed museum -- probably he did.

From the Illinois Free Trader.

RELICS  OF  ANTIQUITY.

On Monday, April 25th, at Kinderhook, Illinois, from a tumulus upon the buff, were dug out a number of copper plates, in company with Indian remains. The skull from under which these were taken, was of gigantic proportions. The plates were six in number, of a conical form, with the apex cut off; the base 3 1/4 inches wide; altitude 3 1/2 inches; with four columns of characters, evidently Chinese or Tartar, upon both sides, and these emblazoned with curious devices of suns, crescent moons, and stars of excellent workmanship. The plates had been held together by an iron ring; and upon exposure to the atmosphere the ring fell into oxyde, proving that a long time ago these were committed to parent earth. The writer could not purchase these reliques of by-gone times; the individual who held them considering the gentleman at Nauvoo -- to whom it is believed they have been forwarded -- the only known person capable of deciphering the probable mysterious import of these hieroglyphics; hence, no doubt we shall have another revelation from these wise ones. There appears, from the frequent occurence of remains bearing the stamp of antiquity being met with, that this portion, if not the whole of the elevated part of the Continent, has been once inhabited by a highly enlightened, consequently civilized people, of Asiatic extraction. The Indians are of Tartar conformation, changed probably by climate and pursuits; many of their rites are similar, and no doubt their origin is from the neighboring continent of Asia.   F. G.

---

==> Upwards of 400 men, women, and children recently passed up the Mississippi river, on their way to Nauvoo, to join the Mormons. Deluded mortals; they may get their eyes open after Joe Smith has plundered them of what money and virtue they possess.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Jo Smith  the  Mormon Prophet

We have almost determined not to give publicity to any of the rumors in circulation in regard to the whereabouts of this individual, and the proceedings of his friends and enemies. Each day brings a new series of reports, and all of them of a very contradictory and confused character. On Saturday, there was ground to believe a report that Jo Smith had passed through Peoria, on his way to Springfield, escorted by the officers of the law. To-day this report is discredited, by news from Nauvoo, that the Prophet was at that place on Saturday last, having been rescued by his followers from the hands of the persons who had seized him. The place of capture has not been ascertained, but we are told, that the persons having the requisition in their possession, two of whom were citizens of Missouri, were taken in charge by the Mormons, carried to Nauvoo, and were there to undergo an examination on Saturday last. This proceeding will involve Smith and his friends in new difficulties, inasmuch as they have placed themselves in an attitude of direct hostility to the legitimate authority of the State. It is admitted, that the requisition was made by the Governor of Missouri, and that Governor Ford of Illinois, so far complied with it as to issue the necessary warrant for his apprehension. At first, we were under the impression that this new movement against Jo Smith grew out of disclosures made by Rockwell, in regard to the attempted assassination of Gov. Boggs, but this seems not to have been the case. The occurences which led to the expulsion of the Mormons from Missouri, and which were signalized by a savage and brutal vindictiveness on the part of a portion of our citizens, are said to have formed the groundwork of this charge. If so, there can be little doubt that Jo Smith will escape from this new attack upon him, and thereby obtain still greater popularity with his followers. In that affair the Mormons were more sinned against than sinning; and regard for the character of the State should lead us to say as little about it as possible. The indictment is a recent one, procured, it is said, sometime last month, and this circumstance induces us to believe that there are other motives than a desire to see justice administered upon Jo Smith, at the bottom of a proceeding which, if instituted at all, should have been commenced years ago. -- St. Louis New Era

---

JOE SMITH CAUGHT. -- The St. Louis Republican, of the 31st ult., has the following:

"GREAT EXCITEMENT AT NAUVOO! -- ARREST OF JOE SMITH, THE MORMON PROPHET. -- News was brought last evening by the steamer Osprey, that Joe Smith, the Mormon Prophet, has been arrested and placed in jail at Ottawa; and further, that when the intelligence reached Nauvoo, 200 horsemen of the legion started immediately for Ottawa, with the intention of liberating him. The steamboat Iowa had also been chartered at Nauvoo by the Mormons, and is at present ascending the Illinois river with 150 armed men, to second the attack of the horsemen on Ottawa. Ottawa is situated up the Illinois, and is distant about 300 miles from this city.

"We believe Smith has been travelling in the Northern part of the State, for the purpose of keeping from the arrest made under the requisition of the Governor of this State, which accounts for his being lodged in jail at Ottawa.''


Note: Note 2: In a letter dated Aug. 14, 1843, Thomas Ford, the Governor of Illinois, summarized the matter in these words: "an indictment was found at a special term of the Davies Circuit Court, Missouri, held on the 5th day of June last, against Smith for treason. Upon this indictment the Governor of Missouri issued a requisition to the Governor of this State, demanding the arrest and delivery of Smith. A writ was thereupon duly issued by me for the apprehension and delivery of Smith as demanded. This writ was put into the hands of an officer of this state to be executed. The officer to whom it was directed immediately arrested Smith, and delivered him to Joseph H. Reynolds, the agent of Missouri, appointed to receive him. The writ has been returned to me as having been fully executed."

JOE SMITH. -- We learn that Joe Smith was lately indicted in some of the upper counties in this State for treason and murder, growing out of the Mormon war. Immediately thereafter a writ was issued and a messenger despatched to Springfield, Ill., with a requisition from the Governor of Missouri on the Governor of Illinois for the arrest and delivery of Smith. It was intended to keep the whole proceeding a secret to secure Joe's arrest; but in some way or other the Mormons at Springfield got wind of what was going on, and despatched a messenger to Smith at Nauvoo. We are told that Smith has left for parts unknown, or at least keeps himself so concealed that he cannot be arrested. It is reported that Rockwell, who is in jail at Independence for the attempted assassination of Governor Boggs, has signified a willingness to turn State's evidence and reveal the whole plot and actors. If this be true, it probably furnishes an additional motive for Smith to keep out of the clutches of the law. -- St. Louis Republican.


Note 1: The above report originated in the Missouri Republican of June 23rd. See the Boston Evening Transcript of Aug. 29, 1843 and the New York Spectator of July 31, 1843 for more details regarding the 1843 arrest and release of Joseph Smith.

Note 2: This issue of the Repository also reprinted the Missouri Republican's article of June 31st.

Mysterious Brass Plates. --
Origin of the Aborgines of America.  

Our readers, doubtless, remember seeing some time since a floating paragraph stating that some brass plates, inscribed with hyeroglyphic characters, had been found in a mound somewhere in Illinois. On the minds of many, no doubt, it made no serious impression. It seems, however, that this discovery may be the one link wanting to connect the Aborigines of America with their Asiatic ancestors! A gentleman, recently from Illinois, a few days since called upon us, bringing with him a fac simile of these plates, with an authentic account of their discovery. There were sic brass plates, bell [shaped], and some three inches long, with hyereglyphic writing upon them, found in a mound of Illinois in this manner: -- The mound is near Kinderhook, Pike county, and was opened, we suppose, from curiosity. Some bones were found, and these so decomposed, that they mouldered away. Below were found these plates, hung in an iron ring. But the ring was so oxedyzed, that it too, fell to pieces, and was reduced to rust. The brass plates remained, and contained what seemed to be writing, descriptive of the persons who were entombed, or of the events meant to be commemorated.

Now, the first question undoubtedly is -- are these facts authentic? Were the plates so found? In such a place, and with these impressions? -- The paper which contains the fac similes, contains also the certificate of the persons who found them, and of twelve other persons, who, we are told, are farmers of the neighborhood, and who describe the manner in which the digging was made, and the manner in which the plates were discovered. We suppose the facts are so, and at all events this very certificate affords the means of ascertaining, by examining the persons in the neighborhood.

The next question is -- what are these characters? Are they like any other characters in the world? We are told, (without pretending to know,) that some of these characters are the Ancient Chinese! This is a fact capable of being perfectly ascertained. Suppose it to be so. That plates deposited in a mound of the West contained ancient (not modern) Chinese characters used in Asia three thousand years since, and that these had been so long buried in the earth that the iron ring which had bound them had rusted away! -- what follows? It seems to us that it would carry with it the inevitable conclusion, (a conclusion which all a priori reasoning arrives at,) that the Aborigines of this country came over from the Chinese part of Asia, and instead of progressing through the country from north to south, erected these mounds and fortifications -- finally settling in Mexico, here the Spaniards found them semi-civilized, and with all the characteristics of the general Asiatic [family]. If the facts stated above be authenticated, this conclusion is inevitable, and the long deficient link of evidence is found. -- Cincinnati Chronicle.


Note: A follow-up article from the columns of the Cincinnati Chronicle was reprinted in the July 27th issue of the Canton Ohio Repository.

COOL. -- The Nauvoo Neighbor, a Mormon paper, expresses surprise at the progress of the Miller Humbug, and of fanaticism in this country.


Note: The Nauvoo Neighbor of May 17th contained a satirical item, entitled "Millerism;" the May 24th number mentioned the "right kind of Millerism," and the issue for May 31st inserted the "Credulity of 'Millerites'" and the "Victims of Millerism" into headlines for short articles -- but none of this material provided any special commentary on the adventist sect. Perhaps the "humbug" identification could be broadly applied to the Mormon editorial in the Neighbor's first issue (May 3, 1843), entitled simply "Millerism;" but even those critical comments fall short of "expressing surprise," etc.

THE ABORIGINAL HISTORY OF AMERICA. -- We yesterday gave a brief account of the brass plates, found at Kinderhook, Illinois, and of the important end to which they tend. Whether they are or not, is capable of proof. But these are not the only facts, proving one point, that the early inhabitants of this country had some hieroglyphic writing, unknown to us; and which, if traced up to one of the primitive nations in Asia, would connect the people together in a common root.... The brass plates afford the best opportunity... The inscription on those plates is a language. We have been told that it really is the old Chinese, and that it refers to what would seem to be the only object of the plates being placed there -- the character of a great man, who there reposed.... Cin. Chron.

---

The St. Louis papers say that Joe Smith, the Mormon, has been rescued by his followers, and is now at large. He was arrested for some offence committed in Missouri. -- O. Republican.

---

A gentleman who left 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, had caused a 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. -- Balt. Amer.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE  CITY  OF  NAUVOO

Few, we suspect, are aware of the rapid growth and present condition of the city of Nauvoo, the Jerusalem of the Latter day Saints. Notwithstanding but four years have elapsed since the Mormons first made a settlement there, it is estimated that it numbers from 15,000 to 17,000 inhabitants; and accessions are daily made to the population from the eastern states and from Europe. The Burlington (Iowa) Gazette, from which we gather these facts, says:

"It is situated at one of the most beautiful points on the river, and is improving with a rapidity truly astonishing. Many of the houses are built in fine style, evincing wealth as well as taste. The Temple, which is destined to be the most magnificent structure in the West, is progressing rapidly, and will probably be completed in the course of the present and succeeding summer. Its style of architecture is entirely original -- unlike any thing in the world, or in the history of the world -- but is at the same time chaste and elegant. It is said to be the conception of the Prophet, Gen. Smith. It is being built by the voluntary labor of the members of the church, who devote a certain number of days in the year to the work. If the labor and materials were estimated at cash prices it is supposed that the building would cost something like a million of dollars."


Note: The above article is a copy of one appearing in the National Intelligencer of July 11, 1843; the second paragraph was evidently reprinted from the Iowa Territorial Gazette of July 1st.

FACT. -- Joe Smith, in a late number of the Nauvoo Times and Seasons, has a review of Millerism, in which he avows his belief that the world has a decided liking for being humbugged. There is not a greater truth to be found within the pages of Joe's bible.


Notes: (forthcoming)

==> Joe Smith, the Mormon Prophet, it is said has abdicated in favor of his brother, who has been anointed to the office. One of Joe's followers has left him and is commencing a society higher up the Mississippi. He is going into greater monstrosities, if possible, than ever Joe did. The Shakers in New York have erected a fence and other conveniences for worship, on the top of a high mountain bear their residence. They repair there in squads and perform many strange things, for even Shakers.


Notes: (forthcoming)

PROSPECT OF ANOTHER MORMON WAR. -- The St. Louis New Era, of the 16th ult., 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 relation 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 can exist which can deprive them of their positions, or induce them to abandon their present residence.


Note: The Elyra Lorain Republican of Sept.13, 1843 also reprinted this report.

==> Joe Smith, the Mormon Prophet of Nauvoo. lately attacked and beat severely the Collector of Hancock county, in presence of hundreds of his followers, for taxing some of his lots, as he thought, too high. The collector was in bad health at the time. This has created great excitement; meetings have been held, and fears entertained that violence would ensue.

==> The Alton Telegraph of the 26th ult. says, -- "Gen. John J, Hardin is the only Whig elected to Congress from this Locofoco, Mormon, repudiating state. But in him the Whigs of Illinois & the country at large, will ever find a vigilant, sleepless sentinel upon the watch tower of liberty...


Notes: (forthcoming)

PMORMON AISSIONARIES. -- The "Times and Seasons" contains a recommendary letters of Joe Smith, appointing G. J. Adams to accompany Elder Hyde on a mission to St. Petersburgh, Russia, "to be one of the messengers to introduce the fullness of the gospel of the Son of God, to the people of that vast empire." So Russia is not to be in darkness any longer.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Lockport. Sept. 2, 1843.         

Friend Medary: It gives me great pleasure to fulfil a promise, which I made...

On board the boat, as we came down the Lake, we had a Mormon sermon. The speaker anticipated, with great confidence, the speedy approach of the second coming of Christ, and the ingathering of all people into the Church of the Latter Day Saints. He was on his way to Russia, with another servant of Mormon, to herald the new dispensation to the benighted subjects of the Czar. The Mormons have had the benefit of persecution for opinion's sake in Missouri, and are now becoming quite a considerable sect. When one sees the spread of this delusion, and the confidence with which its heralds proclaim it, it is difficult to believe that there is any thing real in the world. Every thing seems turned into a sham....

I came to Lockport yesterday. The enlarged canal has a noble appearance, and the locks are really wonderful. There are two banks in Lockport, and none in Buffalo.... Immense quantities of goods are smuggled into Western New York, from Canada. The people pay a considerable tax on imports to support the smuggler, but little for the support of Government. So much for a high tariff.
             Yours, very truly,
                          WESTERN.


Notes: (forthcoming)

"JOE SMITH." Governor Ford, of Illinois, has addressed a letter to the executive of Missouri, in which he declares, as a reason for declining to order out a detachment of militia to assist in re-taking Joe Smith, that the law of the state has been fully executed in the matter. A writ was issued upon the requisition of the governor of Missouri, and delivered over to the agent of Missouri appointed to receive him. The agent was subsequently compelled by a writ of habeas corpus, to produce Smith before the municipal court of Nauvoo, which, after hearing the case, discharged the prophet from arrest.


Notes: (forthcoming)

MORMON WAR BREWING . -- Jo Smith and his followers are becoming obnoxious to the people in the counties adjacent to Nauvoo, and the indications are that serious difficulties will soon occur between them. A meeting of delegates from Hancock and the surrounding counties has been held, at which strong Anti-Mormon resolutions were adopted, and the Burlington Hawkeye states, that the meeting declared that if Gov. Ford did not surrender Jo Smith on the requisition of the Governor of Missouri, they would call in aid from other counties to assist them in delivering him up. Rumors being prevalent that the Mormons had threatened lives of citizens, the meeting resolved to avenge any blood that might be shed. They also agreed not to obey the Mormon officers of the county. The Hawkeye says, "there is considerable excitement -- and we greatly fear the consequences." -- Cl. Her.


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Mormons. -- Joe Smith's new batch of parsons are traversing the whole state. It seems they are not altogether unsuccessful in their Missionary labors. Recently at Bunkum, a small place on the road to Danville, three of these preachers persuaded as many females to leave their liege lords and go with them to that city of delights and terrestrial paradise, the holy city of Nauvoo. What arguments the pious fathers made use of we have not ascertained, nor whether their success were owing to personal attractions -- a fine head of hair, a handsome hand, &c., matters which have been to the full as effective with the ladies in the pulpit as out of it. The husbands of the three Bunkum ladies were respectively a landlord, a tailor and a blacksmith. The son of Vulcan swore lustily that he would overhaul the saints and give them a sound drubbing. From what we hear we conclude that the others were but too glad to get rid of those who should have been but were not their better halves.   Chicago Express.


Notes: (forthcoming)

MORMON WAR. -- It is now said there is a strong prospect of another outbreak against the Mormons. A good deal of excitement exists against them, among the people in their vicinity, and a meeting of the citizens of Hancock county was called for the 16th ult. at Carthage, to discuss their relations with the Mormons.


Notes: (forthcoming)

                            From the St. Louis New Era, Sept. 12.
The Mormons and Anti-Mormons.

On Wednesday last a meeting of Delegates from Hancock and the surrounding counties was held at Carthage. They had been appointed at previous meetings of the people opposed to the Mormons. The official proceedings have not yet reached us, but we learn from the Burlington Hawk Eye of Saturday last, that the resolutions adoptod, were of the strongest kind. "They declared, if Gov. Ford would not surrender 'Jo Smith' on the requisition of the Governor of Missouri, which he has refused to do from political considerations, that they would call in aid. from other counties and other States, to assist them in delivering him up. As rumors were prevalent that a number of the citizens had had their lives threatened by the Mormons, the meeting resolved to avenge any blood that might be shed. They agreed not to obey the mandates of the Mormon officers of the county, who have been put in power by the Mormons, the whole county treasury being now at their disposal. There is considerable excitement -- the crisis seems to be rapidly approaching -- and we greatly fear the consequences. All may be remedied, if the Mormons, as a religious body, will but eschew politics and amalgamate with our citizens -- but we fear it is too late to do even that."


Notes: (forthcoming)

ANTI- MORMON MEETING. -- We learn that a large number of Delegates were in attendance at Carthage, on Wednesday last. The resolutions were of the strongest kind. -- They declared if Gov. Ford would not surrender "Jo Smith" on the requisition of the Governor of Missouri -- which he has refused to do from political considerations -- that they would call in aid from other counties and other States, to assist them in delivering him up. As rumors were prevalent that a number of the citizens had their lives threatened by the Mormons, the meeting resolved to avenge any blood that might be so shed. They agreed not to obey the mandates of the Mormon officers of the county, who have been put in power by the Mormons; the whole county treasury being now at their disposal. There is considerable excitement -- the crisis seems to be rapidly approaching -- and we greatly fear the consequences. All may be remedied, if the Mormons as a religious body, will but eschew politics and amalgamate with our citizens; but we fear it is too late to do even that. -- Hawkeye, Burlington, Iowa.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE MORMONS. -- At a meeting of the citizens of Hancock County, held at Carthage, Illinois, on the 6th instant, it was resolved to call in the citizens of the surrounding counties and States, to assist them in delivering up Jo Smith, if the Governor of Illinois refused to comply with the requisition of the Gov. of Missouri. The meeting also determined to avenge with blood, any assaults made upon the citizens by the Mormons. It was also resolved to refuse to obey the officers elected by the Mormons, who have complete control of the country, being a numerical majority.


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Prairies, Nauvoo, Joe Smith,
the Temple, the Mormons &c.

(view original article in Pittsburgh paper)

Notes: (forthcoming)

THE MORMON PROPHET AGAIN. -- A gentleman from Nauvoo informs us that Joe Smith has sent to Gov. Ford for authority to defend himself by military force against a supposed attack of the Missourians. It is well understood that Joe apprehends no such attack, and that his making this request is more for the purpose, if granted, of warring upon our own citizens, than upon those of Missouri. Joe doubtless understands that his contract with Gov. Ford was, in transferring the Mormon vote to Hoge, and it is a reasonable presumption that his call upon the Governor for the necessary authority will not be in vain. -- Alton (Ill.) Tel.


Note: This same report was also reprinted in the Canton Ohio Repository of Oct. 19th.

THE  CITY  OF  NAUVOO

JOE SMITH. -- The following odd resolutions, among others, were passed at the opening of Joe Smith's tavern at Nauvoo, on the 3d ult:

Resolved, Gen Joseph Smith, whether we view him as a prophet at the head of the church, a general at the bead of the legion, a mayor, at the hand of the cily council, or us a landlord at tho head of his table, he has few equals and no superior.

Resolved, Nauvoo, the great emporium of the west, the center of all centers, a city of three years growth, a population of souls, (!) congregated from the four quarters of the globe (!!) embracing all the intelligence (!!!) of all nations, (!!!!) with industry, frugality, economy, virtue, and brotherly love, unsurpassed in any age of the world, a suituble home for the saints. (!!!!!)


Note: Richard L. Bushman, on page 500 his 2007 Joseph Smith: Rough Stone Rolling, gives this account: "In early October, 1843, Emma and Joseph hosted a 'luxurious feast for a pleasure party,' celebrating the opening of a hotel in their newly expanded house. One hundred couples dined at 'a well spread board.' After the cloth was removed, the hotel's proprietor Robert D. Fostcr, chair of the event, proposed toasts. One was to 'General Joseph Smith...' Another was to the Nauvoo Legion, 'a faithful band of invincibles, ready at all times to defend their country,' and a third to the Nauvoo Charter, a legislative decree 'for the protection of the Saints.' The longest toast was to Nauvoo itself... At the end of the proceedings, Joseph offered his gratitude for 'the pleasing prospects that surrounded him'..." (see also the Nauvoo Neighbor of Oct. 4, 1843)

LONG JOHN WENTWORTH,
A MEMBER OF CONGRESS.

An account of himself by Long John Wentworth, Representative in Congress and editor of the Chicago Democrat.

This is the same Col. Wentworth -- Col. John Wentworth -- who packed convetnton almost unanimously, whipped his wife, turned five of his children out of doors in a cold winter's night, broke up five married couples, run away with three men's wives, was baptized by Joe Smith in Nauvoo, as a good Mormon, expended sixteen cents at Juliet for whiskey, stole a printing press at Juliet and then stretched himself on a sixty mile prairie to pick his his teeth with it, committed himself to Van Buren in 1840 as his favorite for nomination in 1844, called the Irish all sorts of hard names, tried to set the Catholic Church on fire, sold himself to John Tyler and took his pay, in Virginia slaves, finally fell from a horse and broke his neck, was buried the next day and then arose again, and, before he paid his funeral expenses, got elected by 1,621 majority to Congress, where, stange to say, the Sangamo Journal "wishes to see him useful and respected as a reprentative." And now the same "monstrum horrendom" advocates free trade and the old cow has eat up his grindstone. "Well, I told you so!"

Long John was in New York on Monday, on his way to Washington. -- Pennsylvanian.


Notes: (forthcoming)

SPIRITUAL WIVES. -- The Warsaw (Ill.) Message says: "It is the rumor now at Nauvoo, that Hiram Smith has had a revelation concerning the spiritual wife system. Quite an excitement has been produced in consequence."


Notes: (forthcoming)

ANCIENT RUINS. -- A gentleman who has traversed a large portion of the Indian country of Northern Texas, and the country lying between Santa Fe and the Pacific, informs the editors of the Houston Telegraph that there are vestiges of ancient cities and ruined temples on the Rio Puerco and Colorado of the West. On one of the branches of the Rio Puerco, a few days travel from Santa Fe, there is an immense pile of ruins that appear to belong to an ancient temple. The building occupies nearly an acre of ground -- portions of the wall are still standing, consisting of large blocks of limestone, regularly hewn, and laid in cement. The ruins bear a great resemblance to those of Palenque or Otolum. There are many similar ruins on the Colorado of the West, which empties into the California sea. Neither the Indians in the vicinity, nor the oldest Spanish settlers of the nearest settlement can give an account of the origin of these buildings.


Note: Such vague reports fanned the imaginations of the early LDS pioneers of the west, who were wont to see signs of prehistoric "Nephite" inhabitation in the sundry Indian artifacts of southern Utah and the region round about.

Another LocoFoco Candidate for President.

Jo Smith, the Mormon Prophet, has announced himself as a candidate for President of the United States. He has been obliged to take this course, he says, because he cannot give his support to either of the candidates that will probably be nominated for that office. He says he cannot vote for Mr. Clay, because he is too much a Federalist; nor for Van Buren, because he is still worse than Clay.


Notes: (forthcoming)

TROUBLE  AT  NAUVOO.

It appears by an article in the Republican, that a few days since a fracas of an alarming and important character occurred in Nauvoo, threatening with impending destruction of the Mormon government, and even of the life of the Prophet himself. An attempt was made, it seems, to arrest a man by the name of Spencer, for an assault on his brother. Joe Smith, Mayor, being present, ordered the police and the people to take Spencer into custody. After some exciting language, the young Foster took out a pistol, presented it, and said he would shoot the Prophet. The Prophet got hold of the pistol, and held it firmly, until, by the assistance of Rockwell, he succeeded in getting it from Foster. The Dr. and [Lasner?] at this time took up stands, and vociferated they would kill the Prophet -- said he was a villain and an imposter, and that he knew it: that they would be doing a meritorious act to rid the world of such a villain, imposter and tyrant. Rigdon said he would certainly shoot him -- at any rate -- told him he remembered by-gone times -- knew of blood being shed on the island opposite; that he, the Prophet was the right man. He (Rigdon) belonged to the band -- and sustained him by money and force; he knew the Mormon Prophet, Joe Smith was the author of murders, and it was high time he should die, and he would kill him.

The Prophet got his hand cut and his nervous system shook. Finally the authorities succeeded in bringing up the traversors before the court. The letter which gives the above information adds:

There are about fifty masons and stone cutters engaged about the Temple. It will be the most extraordinary building on the American continent. We have a regular Theatre, got up by the Mormons themselves. Last night the play of Pizarro went off in good style to a large audience, of which about one hundred were ladies. I was astonished to see such an array of beauty in the new Jerusalem.


Note: The above text is an abbreviated version of an article which first appeared in the Missouri Republican during the second week in May of 1844. The exact date and full text of that report are yet to be determined. See the Salem Register of May 20th or the Norwich Journal of May 23rd, for what appears to be a reliable text.

Washington  Correspondence.
_____

...

Washington, Saturday, May 25, 1844.         

...In the House to-day...

JOE  SMITH.

Mr. Wentworth presented a memorial from Joe Smith, the "great Mogul" of the Mormon Legion of the New Jerusalem of Nauvoo. The petitioner prefers the modest request that a standing army of 100,000 men be raised, and that he, the said Joe Smith, be constituted the generalissimo of this force, for the purpose of enforcing and maintaining the rights and interests of the Government in Oregon and Texas; and that said force be entirely independent of the "regular army," and under the supreme authority of Gen. Smith; and further, that the outfit to said armed force of occupation and observation be $600,000. The memorial was read and rejected....


Notes: (forthcoming)

A portion of the Mormons, at Nauvoo, under the plea taht Joe Smith has fallen from Grace, and therefor, an unfit head of the church, have left, under charge of Wm. Law, amd set up for themselves. --


Notes: (forthcoming)

MORMON MISSIONARIES. -- The steamer Osprey, which arrived here this morning, brought down from Nauvoo between fifty and sixty Mormons, who are, it is said, regularly licensed preachers, sent out by Holy Joe to preach and expound the doctrines of the Latter Day Saints.

From a gentleman who came down on the same boat, and who resides in the vicinity, we learn that there are several families among them who are going to stop here -- as our informant expresses it -- to keep from starving, which he said they would certainly do if they remained in Nauvoo.

He also informed us that the increase by emigration from Europe within the last two months will amount to between six and eight hundred, and from the United States, (principally Pennsylvania, Connecticut and Massachusetts) to between three and four hundred souls: so great, and so unexpected had been the rush for a sight of the holy city, that the Prophet had not been able to provide places whereupon to rest their heads nor shelter to cover them, but that they were crowded together in small huts and houses, some of which are occupied by a dozen families; the weather had been so unfavorable that their usual occupation of brick making had ceased, and for want of the necessaries of life they were compelled to leave. This did not seem to affect the Prophet much, as he already began to find the kingdom rather heavy for his shoulders, and is himself doing his best to get clear of a portion of the disaffected under the pretext of sending them off to preach.

Our informant further states that a few days since he marched off no less than fifty under the same orders, and that many more will go on a similar errand in a short time. This is the plan, it is said, that Holy Joe has adopted to rid himself of the more intelligent and influential portion, and by this means he expects to break down the late schism which has been formed against his entire control by Foster, Law, and a number of other disaffected spirits. Last Monday he visited Carthage, escorted by his body guard, to answer an indictment for bigamy, which had been found against him by the Grand Jury of Hancock county; but owing to some informality in the proceedings, the trial was put off until the next term of the court. He returned to Nauvoo in great spirits, called a review of the Legion, gave a supper to the head men of the nation, and preached a sermon, the substance of which was that it was always so when the wicked conspired against the Prophets of the Lord.   -- St. Louis New Era.


Note 1: The "last Monday" mentioned in the above report must have been May 27th. Two Mondays later came the June 10, 1844 destruction of the Nauvoo Expositor press, and no mention of that momentous event is made in this article. Joseph Smith's history mentions that he was in Carthage on the 27th, and that a case against him for "perjury" (rather than bigamy) was "deferred till the next term" of the Illinois Circuit Court.

Note 2: According to Joseph Smith's published history, he gave a public address on May 26th, in which he mentioned that William Law had "gone to Carthage" and had there charged that Smith was "guilty of adultery." The very next sentence speaks of "spiritual wifeism," and two other passages in the same address state that Smith had once been reported to have "seven wives;" and that he had been questioned on the legality of having "seven wives," in the context of William Law's having charged him with "adultery." There was no mention of bigamy in the published version of Smith's May 26th address, but his reference to "spiritual wifeism" seems to indicate that some illegal, secondary marriage was suspected in his case. Perhaps the wording of the 1844 grand jury indictment either included the word "bigamy" or alluded to it. See also the note attached to the Guernsey Jeffersonian article clpping from June 28th.

MORMON  MISSIONARIES.

The steamer Osprey, which arrived here this morning, brought down from Nauvoo between fifty and sixty Mormons who are, it is said, regularly licensed preachers, sent out by Holy Joe to preach and expound the doctrines of the Latter Day Saints.

From a gentleman who came down on the same boat, and who resides in the vicinity, we learn that there are several families among them who are going to stop here -- as our informant expressed it -- to keep from starving, which he said they would certainly do if they remained in Nauvoo.

He also informed us that the increase by emigration from Europe within the last two months will amount to between six and eight hundred, and from the United States, (principally Pennsylvania, Connecticut and Massachusetts,) to between three and four hundred souls; so great and so unexpected had been the rush for a sight of the holy city, that the prophet had not been able to provide places whereon to rest their heads nor shelter to cover them. but that they were crowded together in small huts and houses, some of which are occupied by a dozen families; the weather had been so unfavorable that their usual occupation of brick making had ceased, and for want of the necessaries of life, they were compelled to leave. This did not seem to affect the prophet much, as he already began to find the kingdom rather heavy for his shoulders, and is himself doing his best to get clear of a portion of the disaffected under the pretext of sending them off to preach.

Our informant further states that a few days since he marched off no less than fifty under the same orders, and that many more will go on a similar errand in a short time. This is the plan, it is said, Holy Joe has adopted to rid himself of the more intelligent and influential portion, and by this means he expects to break down the late schism which had been formed against his entire control by Foster, Law, and a number of other disaffected spirits. This Monday he visited Carthage, escorted by his body guard, to answer to an indictment for bigamy, which had been found against him by the grand jury of Hancock county; but owing to some informality in the proceedings the trial was put off until the next term of the court. He returned to Nauvoo in great spirits, called a review of the Legion, gave a supper to the head men of the [nation?], and preached a sermon, the substance of which was that it was always so when the wicked conspired against the prophet of the Lord.
                                   St. Louis New Era.


Note: This is the same New Era article that was reprinted in the Huron Reflector of June 18th.

A slip from Warsaw, Illinois, gives the proceedings of the citizens of that place on the 12th instant, relating to the violent destruction of the Nauvoo Expositor establishment, and a threat to destroy the Warsaw Signal, and to assassinate its editor. The meeting regards these acts of violence and threats such as should command the services of every good citizen to put an immediate stop to the mad career of the Prophet Smith. They declare their readiness to defend the Warsaw Press, and in case any citizen, in consequence of any attack being deprived of life, to take terrible vengeance. "They hold themselves ready to co-operate with other citizens to utterly exterminate the wicked and abominable leaders." They raised a committee to notify all persons in the township suspected of being tools of the Prophet, to "leave immediately on pain of instant vengeance, and recommend a like step in other townships, pledging assistance, &c. That all Mormons should be driven into Nauvoo from the surrounding settlements, the Prophet and his adherents then demanded, and if not surrendered, that a war of extermination be waged, if necessary, for the defence of the people, to the entire destruction of the Prophet and his adherents, and to this end that every citizen arm himself. The Nauvoo City Council to imprison any officer arresting any citizen of Nauvoo engaged in destroying the Expositor Press; to take him out of the city for trial. A mass meeting has been called to assemble at Carthage. The streets of Warsaw are patrolled. The excitement in the country is immense. A public meeting to consider on this subject has been called in St. Louis. In addition, we learn that the captain of the Warsaw Cadets left for Quincy to procure a stand of arms, to be placed in the hands of the citizens of Warsaw. Unless the proper authorities take measures to check up or moderate this excitement, terrible consequences may ensue.


Notes: (forthcoming)

A Mormon recently appeared at New Orleans and attempted to preach, but he was pelted with decayed apples and oranges, and compelled to leave that place....

It is said that sixty Mormons, several of them from New Hampshire, left New York last week in the cars for Albany, where they are to be joined by others, making in all one hundred and twenty, to proceed to Nauvoo.

---

A Mormon church, consisting of one hundred and seven members, has been organized in St. Louis.

---

The Millerites of Cincinnati have leased a lot for five years, with the privilege of renewal, and are about to erect a church. The destruction of the world may certainly be regarded as deferred for the present.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Seven indictments have been found by the grand jury of Hancock county, Ill., against Joe Smith the Mormon prophet. He is charged with perjury, larceny, &c.


Note: The above item appears to have come from the St. Louis Reporter's faulty reproduction of a report originating in that city's New Era, that "The Grand jury of Hancock county, Illinois, are said to have found several indictments against Joe Smith. They are said to be for adultery, perjury, and such like trivial offences." The St. Louis Daily Evening Gazette of June 12, 1844 reported that Smith "now stands indicted before the Hancock Circuit Court, for perjury, fornication and adultery." This notice was printed in the wake of the Expositor's destruction, but it must have referred to Smith's legal situation prior to that event -- for no grand jury could have handed down an indictment so quickly, and addressing charges obviously different than unlawful destruction of private property in Nauvoo.

From the "Cincinnati Atlas.

THE  MORMONS.

What sort of a charter can the state of Illinois have given to Joe Smith and the Mormons, which enables the prophet to declare "what shall be a nuisance, and to prevent and remove the same?"

The construction which Joe gives to his charter, "as he understands it," makes him as great a despot us the Sultan of Turkey. Some of these extraordinary powers he has lately been exercising on a luckless [wight?], one of his former followers, at Nauvoo, in a very summary manner.

It appears that some of the refractory members, not being wholly satisfied with the way Joe managed matters in his kingdom of Nauvoo, set up a newspaper there, which revealed some of the secrets of the prophet's "prison house," very much to the annoyance of Joe and his followers, and who resorted to the special powers conferred upon them, as Joe alleges, by their charter, "to remove the nuisance." The rest of the story is told by Joe himself, in an extra of his Nauvoo Neighbor:"

"RETRIBUTIVE JUSTICE. -- A knot of base men, to further the wicked and malicious designs towards the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and to bolster up the intents of black legs and bogus makers, and advocate the characters of murderers, established a press in this city last week, and issued a paper entitled the "Nauvoo Expositor." The prospectus showed an intention to destroy the charter, and the paper was filled with libels and slanderous articles upon the citizens and city council from one end to the other.

"'A burnt child dreads the fire;' the church as a body and individually has suffered till 'forbearance has ceased to be a virtue;' the cries and pleadings of men, women and children, with the authorities, why will you suffer that servile, murderous intended paper to go on and vilify and slander the innocent inhabitants of this city, and raise another mob to drive and plunder us as they did in Missouri? Under these pressing cries and supplications of afflicted innocence, and in the character, dignity, and honor of the corperate powers of the charter, as granted to the city of Springfield, and made and provided as a part of our charter for legislative purposes, viz: "to declare what, shall be a nuisance, and to prevent and remove the same,' the city council of Nauvoo on Monday, the 10th inst., declared this establishment and Expositor 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.

And in the name of freemen, and in the name of God, we beseech all men, who have the spirit of honor in them, to cease from persecuting us collectively or individually. Let us enjoy our religion, rights and peace, like the rest of mankind. Why start presses to destroy rights and privileges, and bring upon us mobs to plunder and murder? We are no more than what belongs to us -- the rights of Americans."

Where this fanaticism will end, it is impossible to say. It is only another visible evidence of the proness of the human mind to superstition. Who would have supposed that in the nineteenth century, when education, intelligence, science, and religion are scattered broad-cast over the land, such a set of miserable, credulous fools could be collected together, as Joe has gathered about him at Nauvoo? And the cry is, that still they come in numbers, beyond their means of employment or support.

The St. Louis Gazette, says that the prophet is sending out his missionaries over the face of the earth in large numbers. About half a hundred of his apostles reached there, on their travels, and others are coming shortly, while several of the laity with their families, who left the holy city to escipo starvation, have gone there to live. The immigration this spring has been so large and unexpected, comprising about a thousand souls, that food and lodging for all have been quite out of the question; while the inclement weather has added greatly to their sufferings.


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Mormon War -- Late from Nauvoo. -- We fear ere this that blood has been shed in the city of the Prophet. Our dates from Nauvoo are to the 17th instant, and the 19th had been set by the exasperated enemies of the Mormons to rendezvous preparatory to the opening of the campaign. Cannon, arms and ammunition had been shipped from St. Louis; Gov. Ford had been applied to for his interposition to suppress Joe and his followers, and Warsaw, Carthage, Green Plains, Spilman's Landing, Chili and :a Harpe, were appointed as places for the military encampments of the Anti-Mormon volunteers. The greatest excitement prevailed in Hancock, Adams, and the adjacent counties of Illinois, and also in the neighboring counties in Iowa and Missouri. Numerous public meetings have been held, the proceedings all breathing extermination to the whole Mormon race.

Smith sets the law and the people at defiance. Officers of justice arrested several persons who destroyer the Expositor printing press; but they were immediately bro't before Smith's Corporation Court of Nauvoo and "honorably discharged." About 200 disaffected Mormons had left Nauvoo.   Cleveland Herald.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE MORMON WAR. -- A great excitement exists in Illinois & Missouri, in consequence of the destruction of an opposition printing establishment in Nauvoo, by the order of Jo. Smith, and a threat that has been made to destroy the Warsaw Signal, and assassinate its editor. Public meetings have been held at Warsaw, Carthage, and other points, and a strong disposition is manifested to commence a war of extermination against the whole Mormon sect, unless Smith is delivered up to justice. There is reason to fear a bloody conflict. -- Ohio State Journal.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Correspondence of the Missouri Republican.

MORE  MORMONISM.

Warsaw, (Ill.,) June 13,              
8 o'clock A. M.              

After the destruction of the printing office in Nauvoo, threats of summary vengeance were also made against the office of the Signal, in this place, and the life of its editor was to pay the forfeit of his publishing any thing farther concerning the Mormons or Joe Smith.

During the evening of Tuesday last, and after this news had been received, a meeting of the citizens was called to take measures of self-defence; and after considerable discussion, the meeting adjourned until yesterday at 2 o'clock. At the hour appointed, a large number of citizens met, and a preamble and resolutions were passed, setting forth the grievances of the old citizens of the county, and resolving to arm themselves forthwith, and commence a course which will result in the riddance of the county of the Mormons, even to their utter extermination, if other means fail. Co-operation of the counties adjoining is also asked to aid in carrying out the objects of the meeting. A committee of vigilance was appointed for the purpose of ordering out of the township all the Mormons who still adhere to Joe Smith, and of inspecting all persons who may be suspected of acting as his spies.

While I write, this resolution is being carried into effect with regard to some of the most obnoxious Mormons in the town, and a number of suspicious individuals have been ordered to leave. Although this may appear to persons at a distance a harsh proceeding, yet here it is rendered absolutely necessary; for, with the threats that have been made, both against the lives and property of the citizens, and with a large body of Mormons in our midst, who make the implicit obedience of Joe's commands part of their religion, no other course could possibly have been adopted that would have secured us against the midnight torch and the unerring rifle of these Latter Day Saints.

Today, Capt. Glover, of the Warsaw Cadets, leaves for Quincy, for the purpose of getting a stand of arms now out of use in that city; and when he returns, every citizen who is capable of bearing arms, will enroll himself.

A county convention is to be held to-day at Carthage, for the purpose of having concert of action throughout the county. I shall advise you of its doings as soon as made public.

Whatever may be the result of these proceedings, a few days will determine; but of one thing you may rest assured, the Mormons will be compelled to leave, if strong arms and still stronger determinations can effect that object; and the old citizens of the county are as willing that it should commence now as at any other time.

As for the Mormons at Nauvoo, they seem as equally bent upon destruction; they appear mad, and evince no spirit of concession or conciliation, but wildly rush on from one act of aggression to another, until the law-abiding citizens of the county are lost in amazement at their daring acts of villainy.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Death of Joe Smith, the
Mormon Prophet.

The last southern mail brought the news of the death of JOE SMITH and his brother Hiram, at Carthage, Illinois, on the afternoon of the 27th ult. For several days past we have been expecting to hear of there being blood shed at or near Nauvoo, as the anti-Mormon citizens of the county were greatly exasperated in consequence of the destruction of the "Expositor" printing office, by the authorities of Nauvoo.

We give the news as it comes to us, and we think the statements in the main may be relied upon, although there appears to be some discrepancy in the details. One account that we have seen, says that on the afternoon of June 27th, between 5 and 6 o'clock, an armed multitude visited the jail at Carthage, bore off the guard, and killed Joseph and Hiram Smith, and two of his associates. We hope it is not true that the lives of these Mormon Impostors have been taken by mob violence,

---

From the St. Louis Evening Gazette, Extra.

Friend Flagg -- Enclosed you have a copy of an "Extra" issued at Quincy. We left Nauvoo about daylight this morning (Friday 28th) all was quiet. The Mormons had not heard of the death of the Smiths, as Gov. Ford, who was encamped a few miles back, had (as supposed,) intercepted the messengers from Carthage.

At Warsaw, all was excitement. The women and chidren were all removed, and an immediate attack was expected from the Mormons.

We met the "Boreas," just above Quincy, with 300 men armed and equipped for Warsaw, eager for fight.

I send the "Quincy Herald" printed this morning, containing the particulars of Smith's death. In haste, yours, &c.   A. J. STONE.
On board Steamboat St. Croix:
Friday Evening, June 28, 1844.

From the Quincy Herald, Friday Morning, 3 o'clock.

(read original report from Quincy paper)

Notes: (forthcoming)

DEATH  OF  JOSEPH  AND  HIRAM  SMITH.

We received the following last evening, by a passenger:

From the St. Louis Evening Gazette Extra.

Friend Flagg -- Enclosed you have a copy of an "Extra" issued at Quincy. We left Nauvoo about day light this morning (Friday 28th;) all was quiet. The Mormons had not heard of the death of the Smiths, as Gov. Ford, who was encamped a few miles back, had (as supposed,) intercepted the messengers from Carthage.

At Warsaw, all was excitement. The women and children were all removed, and an immediate attack was expected from the Mormons.

We met the "Boreas," just above Quincy, with 300 men armed and equipped for Warsaw, eager for fight.

I send the "Quincy Herald" printed this morning, containing the particulars of Smith's death.   In haste, yours, &c.
               A. J. STONE.
On board Steamboat St. Croix:
Friday Evening, June 28, 1844.

(see orginal article in Quincy newspaper)

Notes: (forthcoming)

SUPERSTITIOUS CREDULITY. -- No great wonder that the Puritans believed in witches, for in this our day and generation a portion of the people exhibit similar gumption. An instance near by. A Mr. Wait, of Orange, disappeared from this city some weeks since quite suddenly and mysteriously, though circumstances enough attending his exit have come to light to convince most persons that he took himself off Texas or Canada-ward; most probably the former, as he was a very active Polk and Texas leader.

Well, a very worthy old lady in the vicinity of Orange, possesses the truly extraordinary gift of a "peeping stone" -- possibly the identical one of the late Mormon Prophet "saw through" when he translated the golden plates. This wonderful stone she placed in a hat, and with a vision most extraordinary, saw where the unfortunate Wait was butchered and packed like an ox in a barrel, and sunk in the muddy Cuyahoga! The exact number of murderers, three, we understand, was designated, and the bloody boat in which the body was conveyed and chucked into the turbid flood. The revelation was credited and a party of several men, who possessed the faith, came on, found the identical bloody boat, the spot where the body was deposited, and dragged the river in search, but found nothing for their pains. They returned and reported progress. Another peep into the stone in the hat informed the gullibles that they had almost reached the barrelled body, which had been removed a short distance by the murderers while they were delaying the search. The precise spot was again pointed out, and another search instituted, but unfortunatelyfor the credit of the supernatural gift of the old lady, without success. Animal magnetism was next tried, and the clairvoyant engaged for $100 to reveal the murder and find the body; no success, no pay. The clairvoyant, we are informed, traced the body to its resting place under the keel of a mighty steamer, but has not yet proved himself entitled to the reward.

Is it a marvel that witches were hung in former ages of the world, or that such isms as Mormonism should flourish in this?


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE MORMONS. -- Joseph Smith, the deluded and deluding chief of the Mormons, has at length come to a tragic end. He was confined in the jail, at Carthage, Ill., on charge of treason. The rumors are various and contradictory about the manner of his death. The following is the latest we have seen:

The Mormon Affair. -- Jo Smith, we suppose, was most brutally murdered. The St Louis Republican says: Until the return of the editor of this, who left on Saturday with a view to ascertain all the facts, by personal inquiry, connected with these disgraceful proceedings, we shall not speak of them as we think they deserve. But we must say that perfidy and cowardice marked every act of the enemies of the Smiths at Carthage. According to the most reliable statement, a mob, in the absence of Gov. Ford, disguised themselves, by blackening their faces, and proceeded to the attack. The jail is situated near a wood -- it was an easy matter to overpower the guard -- and this done, the way to the prison was clear. They entered it, and killed both the prophet and his brother instantly, by shooting and stabbing them. Another prisoner, Taylor, the editor of the Nauvoo Neighbor, was wounded -- Richards escaped unharmed. It is averred that there was no attempt at rescue by the Mormons; and if this be true, there can be no excuse for the conduct of the mob -- they were guilty of unprovoked murder; and by this single act, have placed themselves in the wrong, and are deprived of all sympathy -- just as Jo Smith did when he directed the destruction of the property of the Nauvoo newspaper, without any justification whatever, and for which he was every where condemned.

The Alton Telegraph has an extra giving an account of the "army" movements, and they are not material. The Mormons are quiet, and unless driven to defend themselves, will resort to no violence.

The following explanatory paragraph from the St. Louis Gazette is all that is new on this subject:

We neglected to mention in the proper place, that on Monday last, about half of the arms, belonging to the State, in possession of the Mormons were taken from them, and all the cannon.

The prisoners were not in cells, but in the private room of the jailor, the windows of which were not barred.

                                            From the Warsaw Signal Extra, June 29.
Later still. -- About four o'clock, P. M. a company of about one hundred armed men marched to the jail in Carthage, and demanded the prisoners. A rush was mane on the guards, who fired but hurt nobody. They were unmediately secured, and men rushed up stairs to the room of the prisoners. For about two minutes the discharge of fire arms within the jail was very rapid. Finally Jo Smith raised the window, exclaimed, "Oh my God," and threw himself out. He fell heavily on the ground and was soon despatched. Hyrum was shot in the jail. There were two other prisoners, Dr. Richards, who, we learn, was not hurt, and J. Taylor, Editor of the Nauvoo Neighbor, who received five balls in his arm and legs. Immediately on the work being done, the men fled.


Note: The above report of the Smith deaths was primarily copied from the Columbus Ohio State Journal of July 9, 1844.

From the Cincinnati Atlas

LATEST  FROM  ST. LOUIS.

We are indebted to Mr. England,of Mount Vernon, for the St. Louis papers in advance of the mail, as usual.

There was nothing later, of importance, from Nauvoo. Joe Smith was at Carthage, under arrest; and much anxiety was felt that he might be assassinated, so great was the excitement.

... On the steamer Osprey's way up she was obliged to undergo a strict investigation at Warsaw, under the suspicion that she had powder and muskets on board for Nauvoo; and an armed force of militia drawn up in front of the boat, and a cannon, charged to the muzzle, placed so as to rake the whole boat in case of resistance to their orders.

They stated that the governor of Illinois had ordered a search upon every boat passing that place; but when the documents were demanded, they could not be produced. No such order was ever given by the governor in regard to noats proceeding up.

The lives of every on board were put in jeopardy by one of the cpmpany on shore running forward with a torch for the purpose of firing off the gun, but he was prevented by the bystanders.

An extra from the office of the Warsaw Signal contains the correspondence of Gov. Ford with Joe Smith, in which the governor makes known to Joe the complaints made against the authorities of Nauvoo, requesting him to send a deputation to explain the accusations. Joe sent a committee accordingly, with affidavits, explaining the affair of destroying the press as a nuisance, &c.

Gov. Ford then caused the authorities of Nauvoo to be informed that they must continue to make complete submission to the laws, and that in this particular case, they must permit an arrest to be made of the accused persons, by the same constable and by virtue of the same warrant, to be tried by the same justice whose authority had been resisted -- and if they did not submit to an arrest, the military would be called out, and that if a few would be insufficient, many thousands would be sufficient.

The constable was then dispatched with a suitable escort, who returned after visiting Nauvoo without being able to find the accused, who were secreted. Gov. Ford informed Joe, that, unless the accused were delivered up, he should have to make a military search for them.

Report says, that Joe agreed to produce them, upon a pledge from the governor that they should be protected and have a fair trial. Gov. Ford had also demanded the state arms deposited at Nauvoo, which Joe had agreed to deliver up.

---

STILL  LATER.

Since writing the above, we have received the following communication from Gov. Ford to the editor of the Warsaw Signal:

Carthage, June 24, 1844.    

Dear Sir: Some misunderstanding between the constable and persons accused in Nauvoo, as to the time of departure, caused the constable to return yesterday without prisoners. In the evening four of the prisoners came in and surrendered themselves. A request was made for another escort for Smith, and the others accused, for to-morrow, which upon due deliberation was refused.

Early this morning I despatched Capt. Dunn with his troop, to demand the artillery and public arms in Nauvoo. On the prairie, four miles on the way to Nauvoo, Capt. Dunn met Smith and the others coming out to Carthage. The order for arms was endorsed by Smith, who returned to Nauvoo to deliver the arms as requested. I am assured that the arms and artillery will return with Capt. Dunn to this place.

I am most respectfully, &c.
                                                      THOMAS FORD.
To the editor of the Warsaw Signal.

N.B. A large portion of the militia will be discharged this evening. I have the most satisfactory information that the Nauvoo Legion has been discharged, and that the Mormons from the country, assembled under arms in the city, have returned to their homes.   T. F.

---

From the St. Louis Evening Gazette Extra.

Friend Flagg: Enclosed you have a copy of the Extra issued at Quincy. We left Nauvoo about day light this morning, (Friday 28th.) all was quiet. The Mormons [had not] heard of the death of the Smiths, as Gov. Ford, who was encamped a few miles back, had (as supposed) intercepted the messengers from Carthage.

At Warsaw, all was excitement. The women and children were all removed, and an immediate attack was expected from the Mormons.

We met the Boreas, just above Quincy, with 300 men armed and equipped for Warsaw, eager for fight.

I send the Quincy Herald printed this morning, containing the particulars of Smith's death.
In haste, yours, &c.
                    A. J. STONE.
On Board Steamboat St. Croix,}
Friday evening, June 28, 1844.}

---

From the Quincy Herald, Friday, 3 o'clock A.M.

DEATH OF THE PROPHET!!
Joe and Hiram Smith are dead!!!

The steamboat Boreas just in from Warsaw, brings shocking intelligence from the scene of the Mormon war. The following slip from the office of the Warsaw Signal explains the dreadful tragedy:

"Joe and Hiram Smith are dead -- shot this afternoon. An attack from the Mormons is expected every hour. Will not the surrounding counties rush instantly to our rescue?
                    Warsaw, June 27th. 1844.

It seems that the circumstances attending the killing of the Mormon Prophet and his brother Hiram are as follows:

On yesterday Gov. Ford left Carthage with about 120 soldiers for the purpose of taking possession of the "Nauvoo Legion" and their arms. They arrived at Nauvoo about noon, and called for the assembling of the Legion.



About 2000 men with arms immediately responded to its call. These troops were put under command of Col. Singleton of Brown county, who accompanied Gov. Ford to Nauvoo.

The governor finding all quiet left Nauvoo about 5 o'clock P. M. with a company of 60 men for the purpose of encamping about seven miles from the city.

At about the same time that Gov. Ford left Nauvoo, the prophet and his brother were killed at Carthage, under the following circumstances, as near as we can ascertain them:

Joe and Hiram were both confined in the debtor's room of the Carthage jail, awaiting their trial on a charge of treason. The jail was strongly guarded by soldiers and anti-Mormons, who had been placed there by the governor.

A Mormon attempted to rush by the guard for the purpose of forcing his way into the jail. He was opposed by the guard, and fired a pistol at one of the guard, giving him a slight wound.

A general confusion ensued in the crowd around the jail. Joe and his Mormon fellow prisoners it seems had provided themselves with pistols, and commenced firing upon the guard within. He then attempted to escape from the window, when a hundred balls entered his body, and he fell a lifeless corpse.

His brother Hiram shared the same fate. Richards, a leading Mormon, was badly wounded. There our intelligence ends -- what took place after this, God only knows. Mormons immediately left for Nauvoo to carry the news of the death of the prophet. It is feared that the Mormons at Nauvoo will be so exasperated as to exterminate the governor and his small force.

The Boreas brought down most of the women and children from Warsaw. It is feared their town is in ashes before this.

Our citizens were aroused this morning by the ringing of bells and a call to arms. Our three independent companies are already in marching order. Maj. Flood has ordered out the militia of this regiment, and the steamer Boreas is waiting to convey them to the scene of action.

There is no knowing where this dreadful affair will end. Many have expressed fears that our city is in danger, because most of the Warsaw families have taken refuge here -- but we believe there is no danger, we are too far from the scene of action.

Messengers have just left for Hannibal and the towns below for the purpose of arousing the Missourians. The excitement in our city is intense and the anxiety to hear the fate of Gov. Ford and his men is very great.


The Cincinnati Atlas of July 4 says:

"The Mendota left Nauvoo on Friday last at 4 o'clock. Capt. Riley furnished the New Era with many particulars not given in the extract from the Quincy Whig, and published in the postscript to yesterday's Atlas. He says he stopped at Nauvoo several hours and talked with a number of the Mormons; and that while there a body of Mormons came in, bearing the dead bodies of Joe Smith and Hiram Smith. Mr. Phelps was not killed, but was in Nauvoo when the Mendota left, making a speech to the Mormons, and advising them to peace. No Mormons were killed except Joe and Hiram Smith.

"The Mormons all expressed a determination to keep the peace, and not to resort to arms except in necessary self defence. They state that, at Carthage, the Mormons were confined; that about 50 or 100 men disguised, suddenly rushed on the jail house; that the guard fired on them, and wounded three of them; that the men in disguise fired into the jail and killed Hiram Smith before the door was opened. -- Joe Smith had a revolving pistol, and fired it two or three times without effect, but was himself soon killed by the assailants; that Taylor, the editor of the Nauvoo Neighbor, was in jail, and was shot through the thigh, but not seriously injured. -- Richards was not injured. After the assault the disguised mob retreated, and it was not even known who they were. The guard consisted of 50 men, left by the governor, of whom only eight or ten were on duty when the attack was made on the jail house."


The Cincinnati Gazette, of July 4 we find the following:

NAUVOO.

"The reports about the Mormons and the death of Joe Smith and his brother are various and contradictory. A traveler just from the scene, of apparent candor and truth, gives the following account of the death of the prophet:

"He was left in prison with Hiram at Carthage, and a guard of 60 men placed over them by order of Gov. Ford. -- The guard, except about eight, had left their position at the jail, when a mob dressed in disguise, and painted black in their faces, rushed into the jail, shot Hiram dead, and then killed Joe. No resistance was made by either. Joe was leaning or sitting upon a window when shot; he fell from it exclaiming, My God! My God! and died. After he reached the ground he was stabbed, apparently by a young man, in the breast, who said, "damn you, take that, you killed my father."

We give this as we receive it, without being able to vouch for its correctness. -- We shall probably get at the truth in a day or two.


Notes: (forthcoming)

From the Ottowa (Illinois) Free Trader.

IMPORTANT  FROM  Nauvoo.

Destruction of a Printing Press -- a War of Extermination
Threatened-- Great Excitement.

Nauvoo has of later been the scene of a great deal of excitement, which threatens to end in tho most serious consequences. In the St. Louis Gazette, and the St. Louis Transcript, of the 12th to the 17th inst., we have two letters from Mr. C. A. Foster, and extracts from the Nauvuo Neighbor and from the Warsaw Signal, and other accounts, giving a history of events as they transpired at the holy city, down to the 15th inst.

It appears that, some time in April last, a number of Mormons residing at Nauvoo, becoming, for 1001 alleged reasons, dissatisfied wiih Smith and the church generally, as managed by him and his tools, formed themselves into a new society, slyled the "Reform Mormon Church," and elected William Law iheir President. The seceders were, of course, at once fiercely assailed by the papers at Nauvoo in the interest of Smith; and, that they might he able to defend themselves, they determined to start an opposition press. Accordingly, about a dozen of them clubbed together, contributed the funds, and had the necessary materials brought on. All things having been arranged, the first number of the new paper, under the title of "Nauvuo Exposilor," made its appearance on the 7th inst. We have not seen a copy of it, nor any extracts from it, but presume it of course bore down severely on Smith and his party, which is, indeed, certain, from what subsequently took place. On the day after the paper appeared, a special meeting of the city council was called to deliberate on the best course to take in reference to it; and finally, after two days' deliberation, it was solemnly determined that the "said press was a nuisance, and that the city marshal be directed to destroy it;" which duty the marshal performed to the letter, by tumbling the press and materials into the sireet, setting fire to them, and by demolishing what would not burn with a sludge hammer. The marshal was backed in the performance of his part by about 200 of the "Legion," and the owners of the press were so overpowered by numbers that they could make no resistance.

In justification of this outrage, for outrage it certainly was, the Nauvoo Neighbor says "the paper was filled with libels;" and "was got up to destroy the city charier," and "to further the wicked and malicious designs of a knot of base men towards the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and to bolster up the intents of blacklegs and bogus makers, and advocate the characters of murderers.

On the other side, Foster says the only offence the press committed was, to tell the truth and expose the iniquities of Smith and his adherents, whom he charges with every species of enormities. Of Smith himself he says, "he is a man whose crimes are too dark to be recorded, and whose character is stained with deeds that would blacken the bottomless pit;" he charges him with having hired Rockwell to shoot Gov. Boggs, and states that Dr. R. D. Foster has made affidavit that Smith offered him $300 to pay his expenses to go to Missouri and shoot Boggs, promising to reward him handsomly. "He also enumerates among the enormities of Smith, that "he has ensnared scores of credulous females (married and single) in his net, under pretence of divine authority, thereby ruining families," &c.; that "he has been prominently engaged in bogus making and counterfeiting;" the "he now stands indicted before the Hancock circuit court for perjury, fornication, and adultery;" that "he has used his power in shielding fugitives from justice;" and a host of others "too numerous to mention."

On the day after the press was destroyed, (the 11th) a large meeting of citizens of Hancock county was held at Carthage, and, after adopling a series of strong resolutions, writs were taken out to arrest the rioters, and a large committee appointed to accompany and aid the sheriff in the performance of his office. They proceeded to Nauvoo, and were allowed peaceably to arrest all for whom they had writs; but no sooner were they arrested than they were taken, by a writ of habeas corpus, before thy municipal court of the city and discharged! The sheriff then returned with his posse to Carthage, where another meeting of the citizens was held, (on the 14th,) and, after hearing the report of the sheriff, a deputation of two discreet men was appointed to proceed to Springfield to solicit the interposition of the Governor to aid in executing the laws.

Meantime the citizens of Hancock county are preparing for a contest, whether the Executive interposes or not. Six different villages in the county have been appointed as places of encampment. A central committee of 8 has been appointed, and a resolution adopted that constables in the different precincts hold themselves in readiness to obey the officer in possession of the writs, whenever called upon, in summoning a posse.

About sixty stand of arms have been received at Warsaw from Quincy. The citizens of Hancock county were to redezvous at the places appointed on Wednesday (the 19th.) Several hundred Mormons, most of those hostile to the prophet, have left Nauvoo with their property. Joe had laid an interdict on further emigration. F. M. Higbee, one of the publishers of the "Expositor," escaped from Nauvoo on Tuesday noon, (the 11th,) in disguise. The whole county were preparing for a contest, and concentrating their furce for an attack on Nauvoo on the 19th. At Warsaw, all suspected persons were placed under arrest, and a patrol appointed.

Some idea may be formed of the state of feeling that prevails in the neighborhood of Nauvoo from the following extract from the Warsaw paper of the 11th. It had just received the news of the destruction of the press: --

"We have only time to state that this is sufficient! War and extermination is inevitable! Citizens, ARISE, ONE and ALL!! Can you stand by and suffer such infernal devils to rob men of their property and rights without avenging them. We have no time for comment -- every man will make his own. Let it be made with Powder and Ball!!"

Thus far our only object has been to give facts. In tracing the excitement to its origin, it is doubtless true that some wrong might he found on both sides. Yet nothing, surely, was done that can be plead in palliation of the high handed outrage of destroying the printing press and materials of the Nauvoo Expositor. The idea of declaring a press a nuisance, to justify its destruction, is as monstrous as it is impudent. By the same rule, Smith might burn or destroy every store, shop, or private dwelling in Nauvoo. An editor may be fined, and deprived of his liberiy, by regular course of law, for publishing a libellous sheet, but there never was a law to justify a wanton destruction of property. The fact is, the men who perpetrated the outrage should be punished to the extent of the law, and the city of Nauvoo should he compelled to repay to the owners of the press the value of their property destroyed to the uttermost farthing.


Notes: (forthcoming)

MORMON  WAR.

The Mormon war still causes great excitement on the Upper Mississippi. The Boreas brings us some additional items of intelligence. The official statement of Gov. Ford confirms our previous information as to the cowardly and lawless manner in which the impostors were murdered. It is surprising that Gov. Ford, well knowing the solemn pledge of protection he gave to the Mormons, and the previous excitement that existed against them in the community, did not place a stronger guard, and take more vigilant and efficient measures for their protection. It might have been known beforehand that so small a guard could not protect the prisoners from the furious torrent of public indignation that was setting against them in that portion of the country. The Warsaw Signal seems to be of opinion that the war will not yet end, but that the Mormon population must be removed; that they and the other citizens cannot live together in peace.

St. Louis New Era.          

---

Head Quarters.      
Quincy, June 29, 1844.     

To the People of Illinois:

I desire to make a brief but true statement of the recent disgraceful affair at Carthage, in regard to the Smiths, so far as circumstances have come to my knowledge. The Smiths, Joseph and Hiram, have been assassinated in jail, by whom it is not known, but will be ascertained. I pledged myself for their safety, and upon the assurance of that pledge, they surrendered as prisoners. The Mormons surrendered the public arms in their possession, and the Nauvoo Legion submitted to the command of Capt. Singleton, of Brown county, deputed for that purpose by me.

All these things were required to satisfy the old citizens of Hancock, that the Mormons were peaceably disposed; and to allay jealousy and excitement in their minds. It appears, however, that the compliance of the Mormons with every requisition made upon them failed of that purpose. -- The pledge of security to the Smiths, was not given upon my individual responsibility. Before I gave it, I obtained a pledge of honor by a unanimous vote from the officers and men under my command, to sustain me in performing it. If the assassination of the Smiths was committed by any portion of these, they have added treachery to murder, and have done all they could to disgrace the state, and sully public honor.

On the morning of the day the deed was committed, we had proposed to march the army under my command into Nauvoo. -- I had however discovered on the evening before, that nothing but utter destruction of the city would satisfy a portion of the troops; and that if we marched into the city, pretext would not be wanting for commencing hostilities. The Mormons had done every thing required * * * of them. -- Offensive operations on our part would have been as unjust and disgraceful, as they would have been impolitic, in the present critical season of the year, the harvest and the crops. For these reasons I decided in a council of officers, to disband the army, except three companies, two of which were retained as a guard for the jail.

With the other company I marched into Nauvoo, to address the inhabitants there, and tell them what they might expect in case they designedly or imprudently provoked a war. I performed this duty as I think plainly and emphatically, and then set out to return to Carthage. When I had marched about three miles, a messenger informed me of the occurrences at Carthage. I hastened on to that place. -- The guard, it is said, did their duty but were overpowered. Many of the inhabitants of Carthage had fled with their families. Others were preparing to go. I apprehended danger in the settlements from the sudden fury and passion of the Mormons and sanctioned their movements in this respect.

General Deming volunteered to remain with a few troops, to observe the progress of events, to defend property against small numbers, and with orders to retreat if menaced by a superior force. I decided to proceed immediately to Quincy, to prepare a force, sufficient to suppress disorder, in case it should ensue from the foregoing transactions or from any other cause. I have hopes that the Mormons will make no further difficulties. In this I may be mistaken. The other party may not be satisfied. They may recommence aggression. I am determined to preserve the peace against all breakers of the same, at all hazards. I think present circumstances warrant the precaution, of having a competent force at my disposal, in readiness to march at a moment's warning. -- My position at Quincy will enable me to get the earliest intelligence, and to communicate orders with the greatest celerity.

THOMAS FORD.        

Since receiving Gov. Ford's address, the West Wind is in from St. Louis, and, if possible, the murder of the Smiths, and the treatment of the Mormons, look blacker than ever. Mob rule reigned triumphant. We shall look for full details to-day or to-morrow.

The Mississippi was falling rapidly. It has receded four feet at St. Louis.

---

MORMON DISTURBANCES -- STATEMENT FROM AN
EYE WITNESS -- SIGNS OF PEACE.

(see original article from St. Louis Republican)

Notes: (forthcoming)

FROM NAUVOO --Fresh Disturbances Apprehended. -- St. Louis papers of the 8th have late intelligence from the Mormon Country, and a correspondence between Gov. Ford and the committee of safety of Hancock county. The latter exhibit much bitterness towards the Mormons, and declare that they must leave the country, or the Anti-Mormons will be compelled to do so. They call on the Governor to use his power and influence to effect the removal of the Mormons.

Gov. Ford not only refuses to comply with the request, but expresses his determination to keep the peace, and reproaches the people of Hancock county with bad faith in the murder of the Smiths.

Dr. Foster, one of the Mormon seceders, who owns a large property at Nauvoo, has been threatened with the vengeance of the Mormons should he visit the holy city. He was on board a boat at Nauvoo on the 5th, but dared not land.

It is asserted that Prophet Smith left behind him a revelation that his eldest son, about 12 years of age, should succeed him as the new ruler. We copy the following from the St. Louis Reveille.

Affairs at Nauvoo. -- (view original article from St. Louis paper)


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE MORMONS. -- We find in the WEstern papers the following official deocument, addressed by the Governor of Illinois to the people of that State. It declares, it will be seen, that the leading Mormons, Joe and Hiram Smith, were basely assassinated, after they had voluntarily surrendered themselves on the pledge of protection from the Governor of the State, and were awaiting their trial, according to the laws of the land. We hope that Governor Ford and the authorities of Illinois will vindicate this horrible outrage upon humanity, and the honor and dignity of the State, by detecting and bringing to condign punishment every individual who had any hand in the murder: -- Balt. Amer.

(Gov. Ford's Proclamation of June 29, 1844 follows)

Notes: (forthcoming)

Mormon Matters.

The Governor of Illinois has expressed his full determination to bring to justice the persons who assassinated Je and Huram Smith, and intends to offer a liberal reward for teh discovery and apprehension of the actual criminals. The Mormons, it is said, are begging for mercy, and will not strike a blow unless first charged upon by the citizens. At Carthage there were two thousand militia collected, a portion of whom were for narching upon Nauvoo, and exterminating its inhabitants. Certain persons were busily employed in exciting the passions and prejudices of the militia, by the circulation of the most exaggerated stories among them, with a view to prevail upon them to aid in robbing the Mormons and driving them beyond the limits of the State. Taylor, the editor of the Nauvoo Neighbor, it is supposed cannot survive. One of his lungs was perforated by a ball, and he was wounded in the fleshy part of the thigh with some four or five other balls. The burial of the two Smiths took place at Nauvoo on the evening of the 29th, without creating any excitement or turbulent appearance whatever among the Mormons. Governor Ford has issued an order for the assemblage of troops from eleven counties, which he accompanies by a brief recapitualation of the recent proceedings.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE MORMONS. -- The last number of the Times and Seasons, issued since the death of Smith, contains a circular signed by Phelps, Richards, and Taylor, advising the Mormons to be quiet, peaceable citizens, and stating that the death of the Smiths "only strengthens our faith, and confirms our religion as pure and holy." -- The Mormons are still invited to gather to Nauvoo, and there are private rumors that they meditate signal revenge.


Notes: (forthcoming)

LATE  ELECTIONS.

Illinois. Here is another dark corner, which the LOcofocos have saved. In Illinois Lofocoism is congenial to the citizens. -- Good laws, if they have any, are no security for life, liberty and property, the "Democracy" of Illinois can at any time make a law to suit any emergency. The vote of Nauvoo, the Mormon head-quarters, was rising of 1200 Locofoco to 20 Whig.


Notes: (forthcoming)

FROM  NAUVOO.

We have intelligence from Nauvoo to the 5th inst. All was quiet. It appears that the reports of the appearance of Joe Smith and the appointment of his son are false, and originated in a desire to injure the Mormons abroad. Sidney Rigdon has retired to Nauvoo from Pittsburg, and preached to the people on the 4th inst. In consequence of the death of Samuel Smith, Joe's brother, since the death of the prophet, Sidney Rigdon will be chosen Patriarch of the Mormon flock. He is their master spirit, and will make a shrewd and energetic leader. There are five widows of the Smith family now living in Nauvoo, the mother of all, and the late wives of Joe, Hiram, and their two brothers. Accessions to the Mormon strength continue to be quite large; in Nauvoo, the usual activity is apparent and the Temple is steadily going up in its unique form and shape. Its style of architecture is of the pure Mormon order. -- St. Louis Organ.


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.

DOMESTIC.

SIDNEY RIGDON, it is said, pretends to have had a revelation from Heaven constituting him President of the Mormon Church. Rigdon has always been considered the most telented member of the Mormon Priesthood, and probably thinks himself best calculated to carry on the works of his craft.

NAUVOO NEWS. -- The Warsaw Sognal says that Daniel Spencer has been elected mayor of Nauvoo, pro tem. George Miller and Whitney have been elected trustees of the church property, and under their management the Temple is progressing raoidly. Sam'l H. Smith, brother of the Prophet, died at Nauvoo about two weeks since. William is now the only surviving brother. Sidney Rigdon, who claimed the leadership of the church on the ground of his being the only survivor of the first Presidency, and also, on the ground of his having been named by Joe at one time as his successor, has had his claim rejected by the twelve, who have decided not to have one man for leader but that the church shall be governed by them collectively. --   Cleve. Her.


Notes: (forthcomong)

ITEMS FROM NAUVOO. -- We clip the following from the Warsaw Signal:

Daniel Spencer has been elected Mayor protem. Heorge Miller and Whitney have been elected Trustees in trust for the church property. Under their management, the funds being honestly appropriated, and not embezzled, as in Joe's time, the Temple is progressing rapidly.

Sidney Rigdon, who claimed the leadership of the church, on the ground of his being the only survivor of the first [Presidency], and also, on the ground of his having been named by Joe at one time, as his successor, has had his claims rejected by the Twelve, who have decided not to have any one man for leader, but that the church shall be governed by them collectively.

Samuel H. Smith died in Nauvoo, about two weeks since; William is now the only surviving brother of the Prophet.

---

FROM NAUVOO. -- The Mormons appear to be sticking new "stakes" since the death of the Prophet. Some 80 families, containing about 200 persons, have removed to the St. Croix river under the charge of Mr. White [sic, Wight], a leading Mormon. They have settled at a place called the Pinery. -- Evening Herald.

The Mormons have publicly resolved to take no part in the approaching Presidential election. This lifts a dead weight of some 1,500 to 2,000 votes off the Whigs of Illinois, and will allow them to make a fair battle.


Notes: (forthcoming)

MORMONISM. -- Sidney Rigdon and Elder Hyde arrived in this city on yesterday evening. -- We learn that Rigdon, who professed to have had a revelation, and returned a few weeks since from Pittsburgh, to be the successor of Smith, has been regularly unchurched by the Twelve Apostles. He returns to Pittsburgh to establish a paper. His views of Mormonism remain unchanged, although they will not have him to rule over them. The administration of the affairs of the church for the present is to remain in the hands of the Twelve Apostles. --   St. Louis Repub.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Mormon  News.

The Warsaw Signal keeps apparently a pretty keen eye upon the Mormons at Nauvoo. That paper says that Lyman Wright [sic], one of the leaders of the Mormons, has left Nauvoo for the pine regions of the Wisconsin, with about 200 followers, comprising the most reckless of the Mormon community.

Sidney Rigdon is said to have left for Pittsburgh, and it is added that a great number of the English will soon follow him.

Dissensions are said to exist among the Mormon leaders. Mrs. Smith, the widow of Joseph Smith, is accused of withholding the transfer of property belonging to the Church, held in Joe Smith's name. There was a rumor that she had purchased property at Hampton, where Law and the seceders reside.

Brigham Young preached a sermon at Nauvoo last Sunday, in which he is said to have avowed the spiritual wife doctrine -- a matter which has been charged upon, and denied by them.

The Temple is going ahead with astonishing rapidity, a great portion of the population being employed upon it. The leaders prophesy the reappearance of Joe to consecrate and dedicate it to the Lord, and to hasten this event, the poor fanatics are exercising themselves to the utmost.

Many persons are leaving Nauvoo, and others would leave if they could dispose of their property.

At a meeting of the Mormons in the Bear Creek settlement, week before last, they resolved to quit the country.

Gen. John C. Bennett passed up the river a few days since, to Hampton. -- Cincinnati Gazette.


Note: The above material was taken from the Warsaw Signal of the Sept. 4, 1844. Essentially the same compilation also appeared in the Burlington Hawkeye of  Sept. 12, 1844.

==> The Mormons are fast becoming a "divided house." Orson Hyde has written a letter denying all the material statements made by Sidney Rigdon in his recent letter denouncing Hyde and others. He charges that Rigdon was expelled from the Mormon Church for offences entirely different from those stated in his letter. Hyde was formerly a pupil of Rigdon, and both are well known to many persons in this section. As matters are going on these Mormon leaders will soon satisfy the world that they are "no better than they should be."


Notes: (forthcoming)

SECULAR  DEPARTMENT.

MORMON NEWS. -- the Warsaw Signal says that Luman Wight, one of the leaders of the mormons, has left Nauvoo for the pine region of the Wisconsin, with about two hundred followers, comprising the most reckless of the mormon community. Sidney Rigdon is said to have left for Pittsburgh, and it is added that a large number of the English will soon follow him.

Dissensions are said to exist among the Mormon leaders. Mrs. Smith, the widow of Joseph Smith, is accused of withholding the transfer of property at Hampton where Law and the seceders reside.

Brigham Young preached a sermon at Nauvoo last Sunday, in which he is said to have avowed the spiritual wife doctrine -- a matter which has been charged upon, and denied by them.

The Temple is going ahead with astonishing rapidity, a great portion of the population being employed upon it. The leaders prophesy the reappearance of Joe to consecrate and dedicate it to the Lord, and to hasten this event, the poor fanatics are exercising themselves to the utmost.

Many persons are leaving Nauvoo, and others would leave if they could dispose of their property. At a meeting of the Mormons in the Bear Creek settlement, week before last, they resolved to quit the country.

FROM NAUVOO -- DIVISIONS IN THE MORMON CHURCH. -- Since the death of the prophet Smith the Mormons appear to have troublous times in Nauvoo. By the last Nauvoo Neighbor, it appears that a serious division has taken place, and that the hand of fellowship has been withdrawn from Elder Rigdon. James Emmet and Zachariah Wilson, and it is also stated by the Warsaw Signal that ninteen leading Mormons have been rejected from the Church, among them Emma Smith, the Widow of the prophet, and that many disaffected Mormons are moving from the City.

The work on the Temple is progressing rapidly, the third tier of the windows being ready to receive their capitals. Above them is to be a belt of coarse stone, and then six feet of plain cut stone work will finish the walls. For want of other employment a large portion of the population labor on the Temple, and look to the contributions to build it for a scanty subsistence. Private enterprise in the city has been checked by the death of Smith, but few private residences are going up, and property has fallen in value about one third.

St. Louis papers contain a letter from Sidney Rigdon denouncing the conduct of Orson hyde, Brigham Young, Parley P. Pratt, H. C. Kimball, Orson Pratt, Erastus Snow and others. He charges them with making inflamatory speeches against him in Nauvoo, and endeavoring to stir up the people to mob him. -- Rigdon says the excitement was stirred up against him because he and others had made arrangements to remove to Pittsburgh. The quarrel appears to be of a vindictive character, and is probably the beginning of a pretty general breaking up of the Church of the Latter Day Saints. --  Cleve. Her.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE SPLIT IN THE MORMON CAMP. --The following notice appears in the Nauvoo Neighbor of the 4th inst.: -- "Notice. -- Fellowship was last evening, withdrawn from Elders Rigdon, James Emmet and Zachariah Wilson, by the Counsel of the Twelve, and on Sunday next the matter will be laid before the church for their action." -- Age.


Notes: (forthcoming)

TRIAL OF SIDNEY RIGDON, AT NAUVOO. -- We have already noticed the fact that Sidney Rigdon had been cut off from fellowship with the Church of Latter Day Saints. The following are the singular proceedings in the case, as reported in the Nauvoo Neighbor.

TRIAL OF ELDER RIGDON. -- On Sunday, the 8th inst., Elder Sidney Rigdon was tried for unchristian-like conduct. Fellowship had been previously withdrawn from him by the quorum of the Twelve, and he notified to attend and make his defence on the above day. The oldest bishop of the church, at the head of twelve high priests, according to the doctrines and covenants of said church, acted as the tribunal, while the other quorums in order, and between six and seven thousand members, with the Twelve presiding, patiently investigated the matter for five or six hours. Elder Rigdon and his party held a private meeting in the morning, and sent word to the stand that he should not attend the trial or pay any attention to it.

After the meeting was opened by singing and prayer, Elder Young proceeded to lay the specifications against Elder Rigdon before the church both verbally and written, which plainly exposed a secret plan to divide the church, by false prophecy and false pretences; blessing the church and people while on the stand before them, but secretly cursing the authorities, and the present course of the church, and many other matters derogatory to men of God. Elder Hyde followed as testimony, and fully substantiated the charges, and made some very excellent remarks, quoting the trial of the two women for the child before King Solomon, wherein Rigdon said divide the child; but the "Twelve," like the true mother, exclaimed don't divide the child: -- let it live.

He was followed by Elder P. P. Pratt as testimony confirmatory of the same facts, and adding some new items. He was very pointed and plain, giving a detailed account of Elder Rigdon's course since he came from Pittsburg and before, having known him before he was a Mormon. Elder Amasa Lyman supported the previous witnesses and gave some new items, and closed by saying that Sidney Rigdon has prophesied falsely in Kirtland, in 1832, lost his license, and was suspended three months.

Elder Phelps made a few remarks and read a revelation concerning Sidney Rigdon, given in 1833, in which it seems he was "to bow down under the yoke like unto an ass that croucheth under his burthen, but would yet rejoice on account of him that putteth forth his hand and lifteth him up out of deep mire," &c.

Elder Kimball continued the testimony, setting his face against Sidney Rigdon's iniquity [sic - impunity?] and false revelations, declaring them on a par with Gladden Bishop's, adding that Joseph Smith shook him off last fall, but through the mercy of brother Hyrum, the saints agreed to try him a spell longer.

Elder Young again proceeded, and summed up the testimony and refered the matter to the council.

Elder Marks rose and said he felt it his duty to speak in favor of Elder Rigdon; he was patiently listened to some time, but he produced nothing to prove him clear of the charges, or show his innocence.

Elder Young replied with great force and spirit.

Elder Taylor (the editor of this paper) laid the matter open in a masterly manner, and was listened to with great attention. After a few remarks from some others, Bishop Whitney, in a very candid manner gave his decision that Elder Sidney Rigdon be cut off from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, and the twelve high priests, sanctioned the decision by a unanimous vote. The congregation, also, excepting some few whom Sidney had ordained to be prophets, priests, and kings among the Gentiles, sanctioned these proceedings by a unanimous vote.

Fellowship was then withdrawn from his followers, especially Samuel James, Jared Carter, Samuel Bennett, Leonard Soby, George Morey, Joseph H. Newton, and John A. Forgeous, were cut off from the church.

Elder Marks was called upon for his views, &c., and he said he was willing to go by the decision of the church.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Ohio  Legislature.

Dec. 17. --

House. -- Both houses, in pursuance of a joint resolution, met for the purpose of balloting for a President Judge of the 2d Circuit; and upon counting the votes it appeared that Ozias Bowen had 62, Oliver Cowdery 38, and 3 blanks.


Note: Judge Ozias Bowen and Oliver Cowdery are both given extensive coverage in William Lang's 1880 History of Seneca County.

MORMONS.

The Illinois Legislature has at length repealed the Mormon charters. the vote of the House was 76 to 36. the chief objection seems to have been as to the right to repeal charters; but Judge Logan made a distinction between private and public, and municipal, which satisfied parties. These extraordinary charters are unconditionally repealed.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE  NAUVOO  CHARTER  REPEALED --
RAGE  OF  THE  MORMONS.

The Locofocos of Illinois, to secure the political influence of the Mormons, granted them extraodinary Charters and privileges, and the Latter Day Saints have ever kept their part of the contract inviolable, as witnesses the overwhelming Locofoco majority in the State at every election. Like hungry prairie wolves, Locofocoism has now turned upon its faithful servants, and the bill to unconditionally repeal the charter of the city of Nauvoo has passed both branches of the Illinois Legislature, by decided majorities. True, sucha charter as Jo Smith demanded as the price of fealty should never have been granted, and never would have been by any except repudiators, but there is slim apology for the breach of faith and disregard for vested rights exhibited towards the followers of the murdered prophet.

The Repeal created great sensation at Nauvoo, and has called forth the earnest anathemas of the Mormon priesthood. Mr. Babbit, the Mormon Representative, while the subject was pending in the House, made public a letter from "The Twelve," from which we copy the following choice and characteristic extract: -- Cleve. Herald.

"And the sin be upon their own heads and the heads of their abettors if they will do it. The Lord is our light and whom shall we fear? Therefore let us be as bold and steadfast as Daniel; -- peradventure the fury of the liobs will be stayed until their fangs rest upon our ungodly enemies? Should the Legislature repeal our charters, we shall be obliged in self defence to spread the details of our unprecedented wrongs to the extermities of the nation and the world, and then into the ears of the Lord of the Sabbaoth. But we will not believe that they will do it. The injustice, cruelty, and barbarity of such an act, is too appalling for us to entertain such a thought concerning them. Surely before they take such a step, they will wipe away the murdered blood that cleaves to the violated faith of the State!

What more could a bloody mob ask of a State than they will have done when they take away our charters?Oh Illinois! art thou such a Nero or Caligula? Oh Brutus! is it thou, that friend that gave us that heraty welcome and liberal charters? So changed. Oh blush at the thought! From the very day of such an act no chaplain should invoke the benignity of the Heavens upon you henceforth. Let the day itself be blotted from your State journals, as a day of delirium and insanity, when the broad current of reason, humanity and justice were stayed in their natural channels. But if thou wilt do the deed to thy fond and loyal child, and still claim the attributes of humanity and justice, as the Lord God of Israel sits upon his sternal throne, the gallows prepared for Mordecai shall one day be thy own!"


Notes: (forthcoming)

MORMONISM -- SHOCKING DISCLOSURES. -- Elder Rigdon's magazine for January, published at Pittsburgh, gives some disclosures of corruption and licentiousness among the Mormons, in New York, New Jersey, &c. It appears that the degrading polygamy founded by Joe Smith, and established at Nauvoo a short time before his death, has been encouraged and sustained by people of intelligence. Rigdon gives the following account of a recent visit to the Mormon Churches, and of his own efforts to arrest the corruption that was rapidly spreading among the deluded followers. He says:

Among the churches we visited, there was a great deal of excitement; many of the principle members had either withdrawn from the church or had been cut off, and of this number were the presiding elders of the church of Philadelphia, New York, Boston, New Egypt, N. J. and Woodstown, N. J. On inquiring into the cause of the difficulties, in every instance, it was the spiritual wife system which had caused the separation, and exclusion. The course pursued by the advocates of this system, which were the traveling elders, were, that as soon as a man became dissatisfied with the teachings of these believers in polygamy, and was bold enough to express his dissatisfaction, calling it incestuous and adulterous, he or she was immediately arraigned before the church and charged with disobedience to the authorities; and with slandering the heads of the church, at the time of the trial, and every one who dare vote in favor of the person charged, was threatened with immediate expulsion from the church by these tyrants, and thus intimidated, and compelled to obey the mandate of their masters. A notable instance of this was related to me while in Boston, old elder Nickerson, a man who was highly esteemed in Boston, and the father of the church there; when this system, of a plurality of wives, first made its appearance there, rose up against it, as every man of virtue would, and was so deeply affected with it, that he wept over the corruption that was creeping into the church, and declared his intention and determination, to lift his voice against it; this was no sooner known, than he was besieged by two of the so-called authorities, and threatened with exclusion, if he dare give testimony against those whom he had declared he knew were guilty of great improprieties, such as called for the interference of every virtuous man; and the old gentleman was so intimidated by their threats, he shrunk from his duty, and instead of discharging it, with a manly boldness, actually lifted his hand in favor of those whose conduct he had previously deprecated in the strongest terms. Every effort of this kind was made, that the most corrupt could invent, to conceal this system, without their having knowledge of it, till they were informed by some runner sent for the purpose, that at such a meeting they had been cut off from the church.

Every person who was known to be opposed to this system, if he or she could not be won over; or made to succumb by threats, were excluded, and their characters assailed in a most outrageous manner in order to destroy their influence, that their testimony might not be believed.


Note: Given this early (Jan.-Feb., 1845) notice, from a former member of the Mormon First Presidency, it is difficult to fathom how the Reorganized LDS leaders were later able to assert that Joeph Smith, Jr. had nothing to do with secret polygamy, and that the whole practice was a later innovation in Utah. Rigdon's disclosures essentially support those made by the contributors of the Nauvoo Expositor in mid-1844 -- which, in turn, support much of what John C. Bennett exposed in 1842. It is perfectly clear that secret "spiritual wifery" was being practiced by the topmost Mormon leaders before 1842, and that the doctrine was being spread though the congregations of the Saints by traveling elders (such as William Smith, Joseph Smith's brother) several months prior to the assassination of Joseph and Hyrum. It cannot be seriously alleged that those two members of the First Presidency were unaware of the doctrine, or that they were opposed to the secret practice.

The Mormons have commenced building a rampart around Nauvoo, enclosing six acres 14 feet high, 6 feet thick; to be built of solid stone masonry. The fools are not all dead yet.

Notes: (forthcoming)

THE MORMONS. -- It is feared, from present appearances, that there will be a serious disturbance between the Mormons and their enemies before long again. It appears that the Governor of Illinois has received intelligence from two authentic sources that some anti-Mormon forged an order, in the name of Gen. Deming, for a piece of artillery in McDonough county, and that the same has been conveyed, on the authority of his forgery, to the "Carthage Greys," in whose possession it now is. We learn also, that the Governor has sent an agent to Carthage, to take possession of all the State arms in the hands of these incipient rioters.


Notes: (forthcoming)

MORMONISM. -- The article we copy to-day from the Pittsburgh Gazette shows that Mormonism has assumed a new phase under the teachings and pretended revelations of Rigdon, a learned, talented man; but, as we believe, an arch hypocrite. That Rigdon had a hand in getting up the Book of Mormon, is quite probable, as his discourses when a preacher of Campbellism contained frequent allusions to a "new light" the religious world was soon to receive, evidently aimed to prepare the way for the imposition he soon after became a prominent actor in.

We understamnd the Mormon Church at Kirtland, is now divided into "Joeotes" and "Rigdonites," the former being the most numerous. Rigdon visited Kirtland a few months since, delivered a course of lectures in opposition to the course pursued the late prophet Smith, and many other vicious practices charged upon him by seceding Mormons. It is stated that Mrs. Joseph Smith, widow of the prophet, is expected to take charge of the Mormon interests at Kirtland.

The history of Mormonism, and the facts disclosed at Pittsburgh, are a melancholy illustartion of the power of fanaticism over the human mind. Millerism is akin to it, and the record of both infatuations will appear almost incrediable to the next generation.


Notes: (forthcoming)

            From the Pittsburgh Gazette.

More  Mormon  Fanacticism.

Very few of our readers we presume are aware that Pittsburgh is the center of a very important and extensive branch of the Mormon delusion, and that Grand Councils, and Conventions and Quorums are held here, and that a semi-monthly paper is published. The head of this branch of these modern impostors is SIDNEY RIGDON, who was well known in this region, as a Baptist preacher, before he united his fortunes with those of Joe Smith. Since the death of the latter, Rigdon has fallen out with the "Council of Twelve," who now rule at Nauvoo, and was forcibly compelled to leave the "city of thieves." We do not understand exactly the nature of the quarrel, but bekieve that Rigdon, who was one of the three members of the High Presidency, -- Joe and Hiram Smith being the other two, -- on the death of the Smiths, considered himself of the highest power and authority among the 'Saints.' The 'Council of Twelve,' the next in authority, not relishing this, usurped the supreme power, asserting that as the quorum of Presidents was broken, it could not be restored. They therefore expelled Rigdon, and have maintained their power to the present. Many of the "Saints," however, have rallied around Rigdon, who has established himself in this city, and has lately received so many new revelations that he bids fair to rival Joe Smith himself.

A friend has given us a copy of the Mormon paper published in this city, which is called the "Messenger and Advocate," of date May 1st, from which we learn that a "Conference of the Church of Christ," as it is denominated, has been held in this city, commencing on the 6th of April, and ending on the 11th. By this "Conference," the "Kingdom of God," as these fanatics say, was organized in this city. From a portion of the proceedings of this body we append a few extracts, to show our readers that quite as strange things are enacted in this enlightened age as ever took place in the darkest eras. On Monday the 7th of April, the "Kingdom of God" was organized, and the editor does not forget to tell us, it was the very day on which the great earthquake took place in the city of Mexico. On Wednesday, the 9th, the following extraordinary proceedings are said to have taken place:

"Wednesday Afternoon, 2 o'clock.      

"Conference met pursuant to adjournment, and was called to order by Austin Cowles; the first presidency of the high Quorum entered and took their seats. President Rigdon arose and read Hymn on page 104. "Arise, arise, with joy survey," which was sung by the conference.

After which, President Rigdon said, since the commencement of this conference, I have had one unceasing desire, deep and intense, that was, to have the matter forever put at rest, whether God would accept our work. -- The Spirit whispered to me this morning to set apart some brothers, and consecrate them to God, in a room in my own house, which I did, (which was the reason I was not with you this morning,) and after the washing and anointing, the Patriarchial seal, as the Lord has directed me, we kneeled, and in solemn prayer we asked God to accept the work we had done; during the time of prayer there appeared over our heads, in the room, a ray of light forming a hollow square, inside of which, stood a company of heavenly messengers, each with a banner in his hand, with their eyes looking downward upon us, their countenances expressive of the deep interest they felt in what was then passing on the earth; there also appeared heavenly messengers on horseback with crowns upon their heads, and [plumes floating] in the air, dressed in glorious attire, until like Elisha, we cried in our hearts, "the chariots of Israel, and the horsemen thereof;" even my little son of fourteen years of age saw the vision, and gazed with great astonishment, saying, that he thought his imagination was running away with him, after which we arose and lifted our hands to heaven in holy convocation to God, at which time, it was shown an angel in heaven, registering the acceptance of our work, and the decrees of the Great God, that the kingdom is ours, and we shall prevail; my anxieties, therefore, in relation to our work in organizing the kingdom, and the acceptance of that organization, by our heavenly Father, is now forever at rest.

Wlder Wm. E. McLellin, then, arose and bore testimony to the manifestations of the power of God in the heavenly vision; he then gave the substance of a revelation given in the morning relative to the opening ceremony of the consecration; after which he kneeled and dedicated the conference by prayer. He then arose, and said, brethren, I wish to say some things to you which will benefit you on the present occasion; he set forth in a clear manner, the principles which constitute the fulness of human happiness, giving much important instruction in relation to it.

President Rigdon then proceeded to ordain Hiram Falk and Curtis Hodges to the office of High Priests. After which several bottles of oil were presented and consecrated to the Lord."

The next day, April 10th, ever memorable on account of our Great Fire, was spent in "washings and annointings," and "consecrations," &c., until noon. In the afternoon, at 2 o'clock, the "Conference" met again. At this time the fire was raging in fearful sublimity. We here copy the proceedings of that afternoon, together with the notice of the fire, that our readers may know to whom they are indebted, according to these men, that the fire was stayed:

"The washings and annointing was contnued until the official members present were annointed. After having finished the annointing, president Rigdon read a hymn which was sung, after which all the quorums took their seats in proper order, to receive their Patriarchial seal. The Patriarch then proceeded to place his Seal upon their heads, sealing upon them all the promises and propheseyings pronounced upon them, during their washing and annointing, commencing with the quorum of the Twelve; next in order cames the presidents of the Stake of Pittsburgh, and the High Council. After these quorums had received their Patriarchial Seal, the Conference adjourned until to-morrow morning at 9 o'clock. Benediction by President S. Rigdon."

This was the afternoon of the great fire which desolated our city. While we were thus organizing the Kingdom of our God, and consecrating the officers thereof, to the Most High, our city was fast laying in ruins by the violence of fire; and our friends and neighbors in the midst of sorrow, distress and confusion, were flying for their lives, amidst the ragings of the devouring elements, to places of safety, and leaving their all to perish in the common ruin. In the closing prayer, for the adjournment, president Rigdon presented before the Lord the deep distress and great calamity which was then befaling the inhabitants of the city; presenting before the heavens the widow and the fatherless, and the sufferings and deep afflictions that were overwhelming our city; oraying God to stay the violence of fire, that our whole city be not laid in ruins -- in which prayer the Conference joined with all the feelings of their soul. During this prayer, an escort of heavenly messengers that had hovered around as during the time of this Conference, were seen leaving the room, the course of the wind was instantly changed, and the violence of the flames were stayed "and our city saved from an entire overthrow."

So, these fanatics quietly pursued their mummeries while the city was consuming. The claims of humanity, the terrible sublimity of the spectacle, could not withdraw them from the practice of their impious ceremonies. Our citizens would have thanked them to have sent their "escort of heavenly messengers" a little sooner, and not have waited until the fairest part of our city was laid in ashes, and many lives had fallen a sacrifice to the devouring element.

Our readers are probably disgusted with what we have already given them of this specimen of the sad weakness and knavery of human nature. On the last day of the session of this body, each day of which was made up of blasphemous mummery, it was ordained that the Patriarch should have fifty cents for each blessing he delivered. He did not forget the means of 'raising the wind,' The following is also gravely told:

"Wm. E. McLellin then arose, and related to the conference the substance of a revelation given to himself and Joseph M. Cole, on last evening, while in their room at the house of president S. Rigdon, after having offered up solemn prayer to God, which was relative to the bones of the said Joseph M. Cole; it having been shown in a previous vision, that brother Cole should be slain before the coming of the Savior. The revelation had required on the part of brother McLellin, that he should enter into a covenant with brother Cole to carry his bones with him, as the bones of Joseph were carried out of Egypt, until the kingdom of God should meet Jesus upon mount Olivet; that there his bones might, with the bones of his brother and namesake, who was carried thither out of Egypt, come forth together in the morn of the resurrection, to partake in the triumph and glories of the kingdom of God."

Our readers will bear with us, if we copy the closing proceedings of this famous convocation. After various proceedings are related, among which are the confirming of "two sisters" who had been baptized the evening previous, the account proceeds:

The Book of Mormon was then received as the word of God, by the unanimous vote of the Conference.

The Book of Doctrine and Covenants was also received as a revelation from God, containing the pattern for the organization of his Church, by the unanimous vote of the Conference.

The Conference then stood upon their feet, with their hands lifted to heaven, and received the holy convocation, presenting the covenants which they had entered into, before God, and all the work they had done, asking God to register it in heaven, and place his seal of approbation upon the great work they had done before him; which the Lord did, and bore testimony by his Spirit, that he had accepted their work, and placed his seal upon it.

Elder J. M. Cole then related to the Conference a vision of heaven, shown to him last fall, giving a history of all the important events which shall transpire in the world until the Savior comes.

Conference adjourned to meet in tis city, on the 6th of April, 1846.
SIDNEY RIGDON, President. Wm. E. M'Lellin,
Joseph M. Cole,               } Secretaries.
George W. Robinson.
Notes: (forthcoming)

            From the Pittsburgh Gazette.

Pittsburgh  Mormonism.

We use this term in contradistinction to "Naucoo Mormonism," as it differs in some essential particulars, and is probably the more dangerous fanaticism of the two. We yesterday gave some account of the institution of the Church of the Pittsburgh branch of this modern heresy, but since then through the politeness of some of the Mormon leaders, we have been put in possession of a copy of each number of their periodical issued since SIDNEY RIGDON made his headquarters here last November. From these documents we have gleaned some additional facts, which may prove of some interest to our readers.

The Conference which was held in this city last month, was convened by a call from Sidney Rigdon. It was numerously attended, and resulted in the establishment of a branch of Mormonism entirely distinct from that at Nauvoo, and under a different name. That is called the "Church of the Latter Day Saints" -- this is denominated "the Church of Christ." They both, however acknowledge the "Book of Mormon" and the "Book of Covenants" as the Word of God, and as of equal authority with the Bible. The principal difference between them is, that the Pittsburgh Mormons, to their credit let it be spoken, repudiate and abjure the "spiritual wife system," the dogma that "it is sometimes lawful to lie," and assert the duty of obedience to the laws of the land.

The Government of the two sects is very similar. The principal Legislative body is called the "Quorum of Seventy-Three." This quorum is composed of those who have been ordained "prophets, priests and kings unto God." This quorum is now full, in the Pittsburgh branch, and sixty-two were present at the late Conference.

"The highest executive officer is called the "First President." Sidney Rigdon enjoys this office, and the manner in which he attained it, is so curious that we cannot but copy the account of it from the "Messenger" of the 15th of April. After the new Church had been organized, and the "Quorum of Seventy-Three" was full and had received the charge of the institutor, President Rigdon, who had been ordained by the Prophet Joe Smith himself, the account proceeds:

"The President then said -- the quorum was now full -- was organized agreeably to the pattern of heaven, and he had now so far done what God had commanded him, he therefore surrendered the control and management of the kingdom of God into their hands. I now throw myself into your arms. Now, what relation shall I sustain to this kingdom? What office shall I hold?

Whereupon Elder Joseph M. Cole arose and nominated Sidney Rigdon as first president of this kingdom and church, and to stand as prophet, seer, revelator and translator, to this church and kingdom of Christ of the last days, which was seconded. The vote was put by W. E. McLellin, one of the Secretaries, and carried by a unanimous vote; every member of the quorum standing on his feet. It was then put to the whole church, and was carried in the affirmative without one dissenting voive."

The new "First President" was then consecrated by each member of the Quorum coming forward, and taking him by the hand, and making a solemn pledge to "stand by jim and his family in all righteousness before God until the time of the end," and until they shall "meet the Son of God, on Mount Olivet, and the earth is redeemed." The "Messenger" says the scene was of a most impressive character.

United with the "First President" are two others, making what is called the "President's Quorum." the highest Court in the church. This is the quorum to which Regon belonged in Nauvoo, when Joe Smith was First President. The other bodies are the "Quorum of Twelve," the "High Council," the "Quorum of Elders," &c., almost too numerous to mention.

However, we have not time or inclination to pursue our inquiries into the government of this extraordinary sect of religious enthusiasts farther. The inglorious rise, and wonderful progress of this fanaticism, are, however, subjects for profound inquiry and philosophic research. Scarcely any thing parallel can be found in ancient or modern times, except it may be in Mohammedanism. Too little attention has been paid to this heresy by the religious public. It is, as far as we can learn. spreading further and more widely than people generally imagine.


Notes: (forthcoming)

From the Louisville Journal

THE  MORMON  TRIALS.

On the 21st instant the trial of the persons charged with the murder of Joe and Hiram Smith, commenced at Carthage, Illinois. -- The prisoners, J. C. Davis, late an Illinois Senator, T. C. Sharp, editor of the Warsaw Signal, Mark Aldrich, Wm. N. Grover, and Col. Levi Williams, complained by affidavit of the partial manner in which the jurors had been selected, and prayed the court that Elisors be appointed to select a jury, which the court granted. -- The jury was not entirely empaneled at the last accounts. A correspondent of the St. Louis Republican says:

"Everything thus far has been entirely quiet and peaceable, yet there is a deep and intense anexiety felt, which pervades all classes -- the characters of the accused, the nature of the charges against them, and the peculiar state of the relations existing between the Mormons and anti-Mormons, all conspire to make the present trials of deep interest to the old citizens of this country. Every body almost, attending court comes armed to the teeth, and frequently muskets and rifles will be seen taken out of wagons with as much deliberation as if they were attending a militia muster instead of a court of justice. This is a bad state of things, but extraordinary cases demand extraordinary remedies.

The Mormons are said to have expressed a determination to take revenge, in case the defendants should not be convicted, but it is hoped that more discreet counsels will prevail.

---

PITTSBURGH  MORMONISM

(read original article from PA paper)

Notes: (forthcoming)

MORMON TRIALS. The St. Louis Republican of Monday, the 2d inst., speaking of the trials going on at Carthage, Illinois, says:

"We are informed that the jury in the indictments for the murder of Joe Smith, the Mormon Prophet, after an absence of about thirty minutes, returned a verdict of not guilty. The indictments for the murder of Hiram Smith will be tried at a special term; which will be held after the circuit is gone through with."


Notes: (forthcoming)

PITTSBURGH MORMONISM. -- This new phase in fanaticism continues to put forth remarkable supernatural revelations to astonish the ignorant and superstitious. The "Messenger and Advocate," the organ of the Branch of Mormonism in this city, is full of Rigdon's effusions, and letters from traveling missionaries abroad. He complains very much that his Church is confounded with that of the Twelve at Nauvoo, and insists that it is totally dissimiliar in every essential particular. He talks with detestation of their wickedness -- repudiates it entirely, and consigns it over to perdition; says the Twelve and their followers are hastening to destruction, and mentions particularly that in such abhorrence does the Church here hold the Nauvoo Mormons, they cannot be received without repentance, confession of their faith and baptism. He characterizes the Nauvoo Mormons as polygamists, liars, perjurers, coiners, counterfeiters, &c. -- quite a catalogue. It is clear enough from his account, that they are not at all responsible for the infamous expression of a wish in the Nauvoo Neighbor that "God who never errs, might sprinkle, upon every man and city that belies the saints, as upon Pittsburgh, now and then a hot drop!" The enmity between the two is excessively bitter.

In a letter from one Hutchins, dated at Boston, May 19th, we have another specimen of what, in our opinion, is blasphemy, not in legal, but in a moral sense. It appears that the converts from the old church had assembled under the direction of Hutchins to wash and anoint. When these ceremonies were performed, he says they entered into a covenant:

"And while in the attitude of this covenant, as we did at Conference, about to say amen, something appeared before me like a bright cloud, and my speech failed me, and my tongue began to flutter like a leaf among the leaves, and in this cloud there appeared to be a center, and in that center the Son of God; I did not see the whole form of a personage, but a glorious light, and I talked for some minutes in an unknown tongue, which I never knew, and my discourse seemed to be directed to this personage in the cloud. In a few minutes I found myself with my brethren amazed."

All this is told with an imperturbable coolness and will be received as Gospel by the members. It nearly rivals the famous revelations made by Rigdon himself, when the Church was organized. The cloud of madness is upon the minds of these deluded people. -- Pittsburgh Gazette


Notes: (forthcoming)

NAUVOO. -- The Warsaw Signal contains numerous statements of violence in or about Nauvoo.

Irvine Hodges was murdered there; he said his best friend killed him; yet gave no name. The Signal thinks he gave the name, but it was suppressed.

William Backenstos, late Sheriff of Hancock, has been ordered to leave the holy city. He is accused of being the correspondent of the Warsaw Signal.

Patriarch Bill Smith, of Nauvoo, brother of the Prophet, whose wife died about 4 weeks since was married on last Sunday week -- having been a widower about 18 days. His bride is about 16 years of age, and he is 36.

The split among the Nauvoo Saints is growing wider. Bill Smith heads one party, the twelve disciples the other.   Cincinnati Gazette.


Notes: (forthcoming)

A BROTHER OF THE MURDERERS MURDERED. -- Irvine Hodges, who was here in attendance last week, at the trial of his brothers, Stephen and William, left for Nauvoo on Monday morning last, and on the night of the same day was murdered in the latter place.

Of the fact of the murder there seems to be no question, but the circumstances attending it are not so well understood. Conflicting reports are in circulation on this point. The story told us is, that upon arriving at home Hodges was approached, by two or three persons and solicited to engage in the contemplated robbery of a store... -- that meantime, he advised the owner of the store of the meditated robbery, and a guard was placed in the house -- that, upon ascertaining their intentions were discovered, the robbers, as is supposed, sought vengeance of H. for their betrayal, and killed him. This however, is not a probable tale. The supposition of many is that he was murdered by a gang of scoundrels to which he and his brothers are supposed to have belonged, to prevent disclosures which it was feared the execution of Stephen and William might provoke. -- He was knocked down with a club or bludgeon, and stabbed, as is reported, with his own bowie knife. Upon being interrogated, before he expired, as to the author of the deed, the only answer that could be got from him was that it was done by one he had considered his best friend.

We shall probably be able to give fuller and more authentic details in our next number. Truly, this murder of the poor old German Minister has been a tragical affair. Miller, stabbed to the heart, and sent without a moment's warning into the presence of his Maker -- Leisa, shot and mangled, permitted to live for a brief period, as if to augment his sufferings, and then doomed to die -- the murderers, brothers -- arrested, tried, convicted, and only awaiting the lapse of a few days to expiate their crime on the gallows -- and now, produced by causes doubtless originating in the first shedding of blood, the violent death of a third brother, from the blows of the assassin. Bloody narrative at the recital of which humanity recoils! Let all beware of the first step in crime.


Notes: (forthcoming)

==> A correspondent from the Albany Atlas writing from Nauvoo, of the "City of St.Joseph," as the Mormons style it, gives the following description of a call made upon the family of Joe Smith:

I of course called upon the widow of Joe Smith, who I found a plain woman enough, without anything remarkable about her that I could observe. She appeared not at all displeased with the attention of our party in calling upon her, and answered our questions very readily. She had a little Joe in her arms. -- The mother of the deceased prophet is the keeper of the Egyptian mummies, and various relics and curiosities, which she exhibits to the public at two bits per head . While exhibiting the traps, the old lasy gives an account of the manner of her son's finding the golden plates, and also informs the spectator that her deceased son interpreted the hieroglyphics upon the mummy cases, which figures corroborated perfectly every thing Joe had ever said, and confirmed beyond the shadow of a doubt his divine mission. She tells the same things to every visitor, and if she weeps as much with every one as she did while relating her stories to me, she would be invaluable in Broadway on a dusty day. Poor old woman, she trusts in the prophet Joseph with her whole heart. -- William Smith, the brother of Joe, is a man of some influence a,ong his people, and is one of the "Twelve," a list of whom I will give below, but he is not regarded with any thing like the same veneration as was his brother. They say he (William) is a tolderably good Mormon, but the prophet Joseph was of course an out-and-outer. William is very sociable, and would be called the world over a jolly dog. I could not help thinking him out of place among the ascetic looking, ling headed fellows, his coadjutors of the "Twelve."

The community are governed entirely in their spiritual, and I rather think somewhat in their temporal concerns, by a Council composed of Twelve men, who are called Elders, and each has certain duties, when not acting as members of the Grand Council. They have also titles of honor.


Notes: (forthcoming)

From the Cincinnati Atlas

THE  DISTURBANCES  IN  ILLINOIS.

The recent events in the Mormon country furnish food for much thought. -- Such manifestations of mob spirit are to be deeply regretted; for they make yet more unstable what was insecure before; and atim directly at the foundation of alllaw and order. Yet we fear similar events will ever follow all attempts to build up among us ecclesiatical combination, wielding absolute power over a horde of fanatical and bigoted perosns, as in the case of the Mormons, who are entirely under the control of a set of crafty, ambitious and designing men. Men disregardless of every thing like decency; and who trample under foot every principle in order to obtain wealth and power.

From the very first of Joe Smith's pretended revelations, we have watched with anxiety every new phase of this preposterous and growing abomination. We had hoped that long ere this, his blinded and misguided followers would have been undeceived as to his power of working miracles, and other superstitions; and would have turned in disgust and laothing from the barefaced and ridiculous absurdities. But no, they have gone on receiving strength from every opposition, until they are now almost able to defy the power of the state; and the question is seriously asked, how is this hydra-headed monster to be destroyed? Not by force surely, for that has been tried time and time again. When but a handful they were driven from Ohio to Missouri, and from thence to Illinois; and now an attempt is made to expel them from that state, yet after each remove they have been stronger than before. What then is to be done? -- This is a question easier asked than answered. Yet something must be done, for it has been justly remarked by a contemporary that "the sway which has been exercised by the Mormon ecclesiastical leaders over the minds of the mass of the people, is entirely repugnant to republican principles and hostile to liberty. Perosns who are in a state of religious slavery are not very suitable persins to form members of a republican community."

But are the Mormons alone to blame? It is to be questioned whether any laws can be enacted, by which this dangerous tendency can be checked. Laws never yet controlled the action or belief of the human mind; and what is more, they never will. Neither will persecution or force change the current of religious fanaticism. These have been tried in the old world, and they have been tried in this; but in both, in every instance, they have signally failed. It is only by education, by the diffusion of knowledge and the enlightenment of the human mind, that its action can be controlled, and its energies kept within the narrow limits of right.

But what have we done to check this monstrous growth of error and superstition among Mormons? Have we sent teachers among them? Or have we done aught to arrest the progress of these doctrines, except to denounce them as abominable and at variance with the light of revelation and reason? We look in vain for an affirmative answer; for if we are not mistaken, no very efficient attempts have been made to reclaim them from the lamentable errors into which they have unhappily fallen. Their superstitions have been suffered to go on in their blindness, until the seeds of error have become so deeply planted, that it will take years of careful culture to exterminate them.

Since the beginning of Mormonism, the heathen in foreign lands have had missionaries sent to them; the isles of the sea have heard the glad sounds of salvation, and the deserts of Arabia have been gladdened with the waters of eternal life -- but the dark clouds of superstition and error have been suffered to gather unmolested, in our very midst, until they overshadow us like the pall of night!

Can it be wondered at then, that we occasionally reap the bitter fruits of our neglect? Most assuredly not. If we fail to plant good seed and cultivate and nourish it, we will be certain to gather nothing but a harvest of tares....

---

MORMON WAR --TAKING OF WARSAW -- INGLORIOUS FLIGHT OF THE ANTIES -- EVACUATION -- WAR ENDED!

By the last dates from the Mormon country we are gald to learn that "order reigns in Warsaw," and that the war is nearly ended.

We learn from the St. Louis New Era that on Saturday, the 20th instant, the Mormons, numbering between five and eight hundred, under command of Sheriff Backenstos and E. A. Bedell, post-master at Warsaw, marched into that place in triumph. All the citizens who had taken an active part, or in any way snactioned the late outrages, had previously left for the opposite side of the river, so there was but an empty victory.

Backenstos, after marching his troops through the principal streets, and making some pretence to search for offenders, finally drew them up in a solid phlanx on the bank of the river, and in full view of the fugitives from his vengeance on the opposite side, he made them go through the various modes of exercise, no doubt to impress the refugees with a proper respect for his importance in future; when tired of displaying his military preparations, and after satisfying himself that none of the house-burners and mobocrats were in the city, he placed a strong force on guard and withdrew with the main portion of his army to an encampment about two miles distant. The Mormons kept possession of the town until they found the warlike citizens across the river were not going to return. They then withdrew, and encamped about eight miles from the town, where they were at the last advices. The general belief was, however, that the war was over.

This, remarks the Era, is certainly good news to the refugees; they will, no doubt, be glad to return home, but our word for it, they will not attempt to do so, so long as the shadow of a Mormon remains about ill-fated Warsaw. Backenstos may have withdrawn his forces for the purpose of ambuscade; should this be his object he will get woefully disappointed;for men who will run and leave at the approach of danger, their firesides and their families, as they believed, to the mercy of a reckless foe, have the gift of self-preservation too strongly developed in their compositions to hazard either life or limb in returning to them.

It should be mentioned for the credit of the Mormons that though they had full and quiet possession of Warsaw for some time, no act of violence had been offered, or was intended to the property of their fleeing enemies; but on the contrary they avowed their determination not to injure but to protect every thing pertaining to the town so long as they should remain in possession of it.

Mr. Backenstos may then rest assured that any thing at stratagem will not succeed, brave men have often been led into danger by it, but onwards never; when he and his troops are at a respectable distance, Warsaw will again receive her citizens, but without a strong reinforcement, not till then.   Cin. Atlas.


Note: Another reprint of the New Era report adds these remarks: "Everything is said to be quiet in Hancock county at this time, the Mormons having possession of the three principal towns, Carthage, Augusta and Warsaw; but the prevalent opinion is, that it is but a delusive calm before the outbreak of a terrible storm."

MORMON ORATORY. -- A brother, a veritable brother of the martyred Joe Smith, has lately been lecturing in St. Louis on the Mormon abuses. -- The Reveille gives the following as a specimen of his preculiar oratory.

"Sez I to Brigham Young, sez I, 'how is it a going to be about the young Joseph, who should in right be the head of the church, as his father and his family have stood the brunt of the storms[.'] Sez he, Sir Brigham Young, 'if we go to preachin' young Joseph now, those enemies on our borders will shoot the young prophet as they did his father;' and so they set the head of the church aside, and ever since it aint bin a gittin' along at all."


Note: It seems likely that "Patriarch" William Smith was capable of speaking proper English when it suited his purposes -- but he may have occasionally moderated his vernacular to fit the character of his audiences.

DISCOVERY OF MORE ANCIENT PLATES. -- All humbugs on the subject of old plates did not die with Jo Smith, for already a fresh plate digger, and translator has arisen.

By a letter from a very respectable source, we are informed that some brass plates bearing marks of antiquity have recently been brought to light in Burlington, Wisconsin. The circumstances are stated to be these: It appears that a certain man who has for some time past believed himself inspired, had it revealed to him, that by digging under a certain tree he would find a vessel containing plates with inscriptions relating to the aborigines of the country. He accordingly selected three of his neighbors to dig in the appointed place, who, (as they affirm,) after carefully examining the ground, to be sure that it had not been disturbed, dug to the depth of several feet, and found at last the said vessel, which, after being exposed to the air, crumbled to pieces, exposing three plates of brass covered with characters, the meaning of which they were entirely ignorant, but which the prophet has since translated. -- The language from the translation purports to be that of a King or Chief describing the destruction of his whole people and place where they perished. Several persons have been to see the prophet, and many of them after seeking the plates believe them genuine. Whether this will resolve itself into Mormonism, or become the basis of a new sect, is a matter of speculation. In either case, it will find adherents. The world is full of dupes, and as it purports to be the result of divine revelation and is backed by the testimony of three honest men, it stands a good chance of being successful. -- Cleve. Herald.


Note 1: The old record, "translated" by Elder James J. Strang, purports to be "The Record of Rajah Manchou of Vorito." The witnesses to this discovery were Aaron Smith, Jirah B. Wheelan, James M. Van Nostrand, and Edward Whitcomb. They never denied their testimony of the divinity of "The Record."

Note 2: The Introduction to Strang's translation of Rajah Manchou's text begins thusly: "My people are no more. The mighty are fallen, and the young slain in battle. Their bones bleached on the plain by the noonday shadow.... God hath sworn to give an inheritance to his people where transgressors perished. The word of God came to me while I mourned in the Death-shade, saying, I will avenge me on the destroyer... The forerunner [i. e. Joseph Smith, jr.] men shall kill, but a mighty prophet [i. e. James J. Strang] there shall dwell. I will be his strength, and he shall bring forth thy record. Record my words, and bury it in the Hill of Promise...."

MORMONISM. -- There has been a feud and division among the Mormons. When Joe Smith, the head imposter, was killed, there was a struggle for teh ascendancy; Sidney Rigdon thought he ought to be the next in command, but he was defeated and denounced. Emma Smith, the widow, seemed disposed to be the spiritual ruler, but her claims were not recognized; Wm. Smith, the brother of Joe, set himself up as Patriarch, but the other Mormon leaders would not give him control of their affairs. Brigham Young and the Council of Twelve, then took upon themselves the spiritual and temporal government of the Mormons. They propose to remove all the Saints beyond the Rocky Mountains and there set up for themselves. To this Wm. Smith, the pretended Patriarch, is violently opposed, and he resists it with all his power. He favors the plan of a dispersion of the Mormons and their settlement as other denominations throughout the country, but is in favor of an adherence to their religious absurdities and superstitious observances. He thinks that if their religious and political embodiment in separate communities were abandoned, that violent opposition to them would cease, and that they would enjoy more peace. he denounced Young and his adherents, and the feud between them seems to be very violent.The mass of the Mormons appear to be disposed to adhere to Young and his party as affording the best chnace to carry on the objects and purposes of their fanatical association. -- St. Louis New Era.


Notes: (forthcoming)

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 published 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 resolution of confidence between Mormons and their neighbors, opposing emigration to Oregon and promises further exposure 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)