TROUBLES AMONG THE MORMONS. -- The Cleveland Gazette of the 25th inst., says: "We learn from a source to be relied on, that the Mormon Society at Kirtland is breaking up. Smith and Rigdon, after prophesying the destruction of the town, left with their families in the night, and others of the faithful are following. The 'Reformers' are in possession of the Temple, and have excluded the Smith and Rigdon party. An exposure of the proceedings of the Society is in course of preparation by one Parish, the former confidential Secretary of the prophet Smith. He has the records, &c. in his possession."


Note: This article came from the Washington National Intelligencer of Feb. 9, 1838. Thus, the "25th" spoken of was Jan. 25, 1838.

MORE DIFFICULTIES WITH THE MORMONS. -- We have only time to give a brief and condensed statement of the depredations committed by these poor, ignorant, infatuated -- or in other words, the refuse scoundrels and impostors of earth. The latest date from St. Louis contains a letter dated near Jefferson Barracks, Oct. 29th. They have burnt almost every house in Daviess county, and laid in ruins the county seat. Captain Bogard's company, consisting of 80 men, was attacked and cut to pieces, except 3 or 4 who escaped. They have threatened to destroy Richmond. Gov. Boggs has issued orders for 3000 men to repair to the scene of difficulty. -- We further understand that their numbers have been increased by arrivals from Ohio and Canada, which may partly account for their boldness. We trust that these self-willed and self deluded beings may be routed and dispersed, for their unwarrantable aggressions demand it. And if they gather together again, may they be scattered, and the name of Mormon sink with its last survivor to the grave. Infamy will be their tombstone.


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Mormons, who, when driven from their New Jerusalem in Missouri, sought shelter among the people of Illinois, are again gathering together at Commerce, Illinois. Many have purchased property and settled there, and others have squatted on the Half Breed Lands in this Territory, immediately opposite. Jo Smith and Sidney Rigdon, their leaders, who were confined in jail to await their trial for an offence against the laws of Missouri, having made their escape, are again among them, enjoying their liberty. These deluded people have suffered so much persecution for their wickedness, that the sympathies of the people, under the belief that this persecution has been for opinion's sake, have become strongly enlisted in their favor, which has been evinced by their offers of protection. We are truly glad to see them extend a helping hand to human beings in distress, but we regret to find them holding out inducements for the settlement of these beings on our borders. It cannot be that the great opposition which grew up against them in Missouri was based alone upon the abhorrence of their religious opinions, but their conduct must have been such as to merit the condemnation of the people among whom they had settled, and justified the means used to bring them to subjection. While our sacred and inimitable constitution guarantees to us all liberty in the enjoyment of our own religious opinions, it grants to no sect the power to so change the forms of administering the laws as to shield trespassers of any certain belief from the penalties of a violated people, and the Mormons, by the election of one of their faith, which they had the strength to do, could hold the administration of the laws in their own hands, and judging from their faith, who would doubt that Jo Smith could order the discharge of every Mormon, charged with stealing, and his orders be strictly obeyed.

In this way they can prove a curse to any country. The mass of the Mormons are a deluded people, and their leaders are managing knaves, whose object is to use their followers as mere tools to carry into execution their unholy schemings. So far they have succeeded very well, save a few months imprisonment. Smith and Rigdon live in opulence at the expense of their starving followers, and this is as much as they should wish. All bow obedience to their commands, believing that they are inspired from on high, and possessed of power, at some future day to dispense blessings at their pleasure. What safety, then, have the people who live in the neighborhood with them? Neither their lives nor their property are safe, and a resort to force is the only means which has yet been found sufficient to protect themselves from the pilferings of these people.

Such is the character of these people, that their settlement in a country not entirely remote from other settlements is sure to produce dissatisfaction, contention, and litigation, so destructive to the peace of neighborhoods so essential to happiness.


Notes: (forthcoming)

We understand that the Mormons have bought up many of the Half Breed claims, and that a gentleman, well acquainted with the subject, is attempting to secure for them all the genuine claims, to this beautiful tract of country. If this can be done, the Mormons can partition it among themselves and a great amount of litigation may thus be avoided. We understand that many of the Mormons are now making farms on this tract and that Rigdon has bought the beautiful residence of Dr. Galland, opposite Montrose.


Notes: (forthcoming)

MORMONISM.

We learn from the Boston Recorder that Mormonism has founds its way into a church in Massachusetts and led to the excommunication of some of its members. This circumstance has induced the publication of a letter by Mrs. Davidson, a lady of unimpeached veracity resided at Monson in that State, giving an account of the origin of the Mormon Bible. It was written by her first husband, the Rev. Solomon Spaulding formerly a resident of [C]herry Valley in this State, and subsequently of New Salem in Ohio, sometimes called Connecticut [sic] from the name of the creek on which it is situated. His impaired health excluding him from active labors he amused himself by the composition of a historical romance being a sketch of the lost race who constructed the numerous ancient mounds and forts which abounded in the Western country and some of which are in the town of New Salem. In this production he imitated the style of the Old Testament. -- This was about the year 1812. The work purported to have been written by one of the lost race and to have been dug up from the earth by portions of the narrative, as he advanced in it he was in the habit of reading to his friends in the neighborhood.

From New Salem Mr. Spaulding removed to Pittsburgh, Pa. where he joined with Mr. Patterson, in editing a newspaper to whom [he] loaned the manuscript for a perusal. Connected with Mr. Patterson['s] printing office was Sidney Rigdon, who has since figured largely in the history of the Mormons; as one of the leaders and founders and who had ample opportunities to become acquainted with the manuscript and to apply it. -- Spaulding died in 1826 and the manuscript to which we refer was preserved by his widow.

When the Book of Mormon appeared a copy of it was taken to New Salem where a female preacher undertook to expound its mysteries. The work was immediately identified by some of the inhabitants who had heard it read by Mr. Spaulding and particularly by his brother who is still a resident of New Salem. The circumstances produced so much excitement that the inhabitants of the place had a meeting and deputed one of their number, Dr. Halbert [sic] to repair to Monson and obtain the original MS. of Mrs. Spaulding for the purpose of comparing it with the Mormon Bible to satisfy their own minds and prevent their friends from embracing this monstrous delusion. This was in the year 1835.

This statement of Mrs. Davidson accounts most satisfactory for the origin of the book and is of a character not to be disputed. The narrative from which we have gathered the [a]bove facts was procured from the writer by the Rev. Mr. Stow [sic] of Hollisyon, Mass., who states that he [h]as often had occasion to come in con[tact] with the Mormonism in its grossest forms. The narrative is accompanied with the highest testimonial of the character of the writer and there is no question of its entire correctness. -- N. Y. Courier


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE  MORMON  BIBLE

(view original article from Boston Recorder)

 


Notes: (forthcoming)

LYMAN WIGHT, one of the Mormon leaders, has addressed several letters to the editors of the Quincy Whig, and which have been published in the same, charging the persecution of the Mormons in Missouri, to the Democratic party, and at the same time charging several of the officers engaged in the expedition against the Mormons with belonging to that party, while the reverse is the case. Sidney Rigdon, Jo Smith, Jr. and Hiram Smith have also addressed the editors, denying that their persecution was a party measure. They say that those who were out against them, were "composed of all parties, regardless of all differences of opinion, either political or religious," and express a desire that the letters of Wight may be viewed as his sentiments alone, and not the sentiments of the Mormons, whose faith he professes.


Notes: (forthcoming)

From the New Yorker.

THE  BOOK  OF  MORMONS.

One of the greatest literary curiosities of the day is the much abused 'Book of Mormon.' That a work of this 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 partizans, 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 numbering 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 other inspired 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 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 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 on 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 centre sword of Islamism now sways; the riches 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 Millennium do not take place immediately. The Latter Day Saints, must, by their own shewing, be mistaken, and their faith fall 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 give in different books an account of the wars and alliances 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 practical 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 work, but even fill up many chasms that now seem to exist, and thus receive and lend confirmation in almost every body.

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, shows a degree of talent and research that in an uneducated youth of twenty is almost a miracle of itself.

A copy of the characters on some of the golden leaves, was transmitted to learned gentlemen of this city, who of course [were] unable to decypher them, but thought they bore resemblance to the ancient Egyptian characters.

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 very 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 transaction.

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 house-hold god, and in this land her shrine is inviolate. --   JOSEPHINE.


Notes: (forthcoming)

NAUVOO.

"This city of the Saints -- this nucleus of a Western Empire," is daily increasing in population. It is said that there are now 8000 inhabitants, within the limits of the corporation. A large number of workmen are engaged in raising the walls of the Temple, which, if ever completed, will be a magnificant structure. The "Nauvoo House" is also in rapid progress. Many excellent dwellings and business houses are scattered throughout the city, and the citizens all appear to be busily employed in various avocations. The increase by immigration is principally from England and some of these neophytes are reputed to be very wealthy -- All such, it is sais are required to hand over a portion of their surplus revenue to the Prophet. This we opine is slander, but if it should be true, Smith's situation in the church doubtless makes it a profit-able business.


Notes: (forthcoming)

From the Times and Seasons, July 15.

THE  MORMONS.
Arrest of Jo Smith.

By the annexed extract of a private letter from a highly respectable gentleman residing near the Mormon city (Nauvoo,) it appears that the scenes which a few months since were enacted in Missouri, are in danger of being repeated in Iowa. There is a tract of 120,000 acres of beautiful land lying directly opposite the Mormon settlement on the Mississippi River. This Tract was given to the Half Breeds of the Sac 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 then 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 possible title, -- a title direct from the Creator; and they seem determined to set all human decrees 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 requisition from the Governor of Missouri. May justice be meted out to him for his villiany.

"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 Mormons, was found dead last week, having been shot through the head. He was no doubt murdered."


Note: The Times & Seasons editor copied the above reports from a June, 1841 issue of the New York Journal of Commerce. The Mormon editor says: "The statement with regard to the murder of Martin Harris, is the climax of iniquity, and gives evidence of corruption the most foul, and a heart as black as sin and the devil can make it. It is utterly false." As later reports confirmed, a different Harris had been lecturing in the Nauvoo area. After the reported death of a Mr. "Harris" in that vicinity the rumor was put into circulation that Martin harris had spoken against the Nauvoo LDS and had been killed.

Last week a body of Mormons, numbering about seventy individuals, passed through this city on their way to Nauvoo, Illinois to join their fellow fanatics in that settlement. They are from Gloucester, England, and arrived at Quebec in the Collins. They appeared to be quite inoffensive people, and possessed of some means. -- (source paper illigible)


Notes: (forthcoming)

Another accession of Mormons. -- The steamboat Gen. Platte [sic, Pratt?], says the St. Louis Pennant, of the 22d ult., brought up Friday last, 250 Mormons, all of them are from England, and are bound for Nauvoo, Illinois, the "Promised Land" and city of the "Latter Day Saints."


Notes: (forthcoming)

Trouble among the Mormons. -- We understand by a private letter from Montrose, that Jo Smith has had a quarrel with Rigdon and Bennett, and that he has turned both of the latter out of the synagogue. Some hard swearing passed between these saints during the quarrel. Bennett threatens to write a book, for the purpose of exposing the rascality of the pretender to a spirit of prophesy. We hope the schism is incurable, as it is said to be.


Note: John C. Bennett responded to editor James G. Edwards' news item in a letter published in the next issue of the Burlington Hawkeye.

                                                    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 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 for a few days until you see my expose in the "Sangamo Journal" of next week, or the week following, over my own name. In haste.

Yours, respectfully             
              JOHN C. BENNETT.

Note 1: John C. Bennett's letter of June 27, 1842 was addressed to James G. Edwards, editor of the Burlington, Iowa Hawk-Eye and Iowa Patriot, in response to a news item mentioning him, which had appeared in that paper on the 23rd. Bennett's response was reprinted in various western newspapers in early July. See, for example, the Sangamo Journal issue of July 8, 1842 and those of the weeks following. See also the July 14th St. Louis Bulletin and the July 27th Louisville Journal for related items from the pen of John C. Bennett.

Note 2: The published letter is date-lined "Nauvoo." Bennett apparently wrote this letter while visiting his old Mormon acquaintances George W. Robinson and Nauvoo Postmaster Sidney Rigdon, in that place. Rigdon probably saw that the letter was sent speedily to Burlington, while Bennett just as speedily fled Nauvoo for the last time. After a residence in the east, during which he published his History of the Saints,M Bennett returned to visit the Nauvoo region a few months later. See his second letter, published by Edwards in the Dec. 7, 1843 issue of the Hawk-Eye.

TROUBLE AT NAUVOO. -- Joseph Smith and Mr. Rockwell have been ordered arrested by the Governor. Sheriff Jasper attempted to serve the warrent but was thwarted, a second attempt was made by the two men were nowhere to be found.


Notes: (forthcoming)

In another part of our columns will be found a succinct account of "Mormonism," taken from the Boston Bulletin, on a review of the work recently published at New York, by Gen. Bennett, giving a history of the rise and progress of the "Latter Day Saints," and its licentious and evil propensities. We presume that many of our readers [have] already been made acquainted with the story of this doctrine, now preached and promulgated [throughout] the United States, as well as that of England, by a deluded set of followers of Joe Smith; yet there appears still a large number, who to the present day, are strangers as to how this mysterious doctrine first originated; by giving it a careful perusal the reader will be made acquainted with its origin.

---

"MORMONISM."

The discovery of the book of gold is thus related: -- "He repaired to the place of deposite and demanded the book, which was in a stone box, and so near the top of the groud that he could see one end of it, and raising it up took out the book of gold; but fearing some might discover where he got it, he laid it down to place back the top stone as he found it; and turning round, to his surprise there was no book in sight. He again opened the box, and in it saw the book and attempted to take it out, but was hindered. He saw in the box, something like a toad, which assumed the appearance of a man and struck him on the side of the head. Not being discouraged at trifles, he again stooped down and strove to take the book, when the spirit struck him again and knocked him three or four rods, and hurt him prodigiously."

The "Golden Bible," or Book of Mormon, was first published in 1830, being written much in the style of the Old Testament, and giving an account of the departure of the Lost Tribe of Israel from Jerusalem under command of Nephi and Lehi -- their journey by land and sea, till they arrived in America -- their quarrels and contentions until the Nephites were entirely destroyed by the children of Lehi, who afterwards dwindled in unbelief, and became a dark, lothsome, and filthy people -- to wit, the American Indians.

The first Mormon Church consisted of six members; and after a number of converts the prophet received a revalation [sic.] from Heaven, that the "Saints" should remove to Kirtland, Ohio, and there take up their abode. Many obeyed the command -- selling their possessions, and helping each other to settle in the spot designated. The place was the Head Quarters of the church and the residence of the Prophet until 1838.

The leaders in this comunity having become deeply involved in debt, by trading and their efforts to erect a Temple, in 1837 the far famed Kirtland Bank was put into operation without a charter. When the notes were first issued, they were current in the vicinity, and Smith took advantage of their credit to pay off with them the debts, he, and the brethren had contracted in the neighborhood for land, &c. -- The eastern creditors, however, refused to take them. This led to the expedient of exchanging for the notes of other banks. -- Accordingly, the elders were sent off throÕ the country, to barter off Kirtland money, which they did, with great zeal, and continued the operation, until the notes were not worth twelve and half cents to the dollar. As might have been expected, this institution, after a few months exploded, involving Smith and his brethren in inextricable difficulties. The consequence was, that he and most of the members of the church, set off in the spring of 1838, for Far West, Mo., being pursued by their creditors, but to no effect.

Previous to the breaking up of the community at Kirtland, a portion of the faithful had emigrated to Missouri, where having become very arrogant, claiming the land as their own by a title directly from the Lord, and making the most haughty assumptions -- they had so exasperated the citizens, that in several places where they attempted to locate, mobs were raised to drive them from the country. Smith and his associates from Kirtland, brought them to a stand. His Apostles and Elders were instructed to preach that it was the will of the Lord, that all his followers should assemble in Caldwell county, Mo., and possess the kingdom -- that power would be given them to do so, and the children of God were not required to go to war at their own expense. It was estimated that the Mormons now numbered in this country, and in Europe, about 40,000. The scenes of depredation which brought on the Missouri war -- struggle between the Mormons and civil authorities of the state -- are matter of history. The result was their entire expulsion from the state -- and the capture of Smith and several of the ringleaders, who after several months' imprisonment, found means of making their escape to Illinois, whither their comrades had been driven.

The Mormons, as a body arrived in Illinois in the early part of 1839. At this time they presented a spectacle of destitution and wretchedness, almost unexampled. This, privation, wrought powerfully upon the sympathies of the citizens, and caused them to be received with the greatest hospitality and kindness. In the winter of 1840 -- they applied to the legislature of this state to charter the City of Nauvoo, which is situated on the Mississippi River at the head of the Lower Rapids -- a site equal in beauty to any on the river. -- They asked also, for other and peculiar chartered privileges, and such was the desire to secure their political favor, that they were granted for the asking. The progress of the church, from this time to May, 1842, was rapid; the city of Nauvoo having reached a population of 10,000 in number -- the legion, consisting of 2,000 soldiers, well drilled and disciplined; and the whole Mormon strength, as has been publicly stated, being about 100,000 souls. The Prophet has in frequent communion with Heaven taught that his Nauvoo was a resting place only, that there was to be a great gathering of all the Saints, to conquer Missouri, and rear the great Temple in Zion, from which they had been driven, and build the new Jerusalem there.

The story of the attempted assassination of Gov. Boggs, and the several rumors of the arrest of Joe Smith and Rockwell, together with the revolting tales of the prophet's "Amours," &c., are familiar to our readers.

The true origin of the Book of Mormon, is this: Solomon Spaulding, of Conneaught, Ohio, during his leisure hours, wrote for his own amusement, a historical romance, which he read in manuscript to several personal friends, who testify to its identity. He came to Pittsburgh in 1812, with the view of getting the book printed, and it was left at the office of Mr. Patterson. He was never heard from again, but how Joe Smith got possession of the manuscript found remains a mystery.


Note: The opening paragraph of the Boston Bulletin article is taken from the 1833 Willard Chase accoun. John C. Bennett reproduced many such old anti-Mormon statements in his 1842 book. The remainder of the article appears to be original reporting, based in part upon Bennett's account.

ARREST OF ROCKWELL. -- The St. Louis Republican, of the 7th inst., says, "Our readers will recollect that Ex-Gov. Boggs, of this State, was shot at, last fall at his residence in Jackson county. Fortunately the ball did not produce death, but the assassins escaped undetected. Governor Reynolds having obtained information, which induced the belief that it was the work of Orrin Porter Rockwell, of Nauvoo, offered a large reward for his apprehension. Joe Smith was also supposed to instigate the affair -- Rockwell being the instrument employed by Smith to effect his diabolical purposes. The officers of justice have kept a sharp look out for Rockwell since the Proclamation was made, but all efforts for his apprehension have proven unavailing until Sunday last, when he was taken in this city. Sufficient proof[s] of his identity were made, and he has been taken to Jefferson City to be delivered to the State authorities. He will, no doubt, be dealt with as he deserves, if his guilt is sufficiently established. His trial will take place, we suppose, in Jackson county, the place where the attempted assassination was made. We hear that he has been paying a flying visit to the Eastern States since a reward has been offered for him. If he be guilty, too much praise cannot be bestowed upon those who have been instrumental in apprehending him and bringing him to a just and well deserved punishment.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Another New Doctrine. -- A new delusion has broken out, says the Davenport Gazette, near the western part of this Territory which will perhaps occasion surprise, and throw Joe Smith into the shades. A Mr. Henkle [sic], who is said to have been formerly a Mormon, but has left them, has located himself near Blue Grass and began propagating a new religion. Four have already been baptised 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 prophecy, 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. There most certainly [must] be some pleasure in belonging to this new doctrine, for one can't object [to] kissing a sweet and lively young Miss.


Note: For more on the fate of splinter group leader George M. Hinkle and his Iowa Saints, see the May 8, 1845 issue of the Buffalo Daily Courier.

... Many of our citizens spent the fourth among the saints ar Nauvoo. They returned much pleased with the visit. They were escorted by the military from the landing to the Temple, where seats had been reserved for them. Two boats, with five or six hundred passengers, from Warsaw, Quincy and St. Louis, also arrived about the same time, and thus swelled the number of invited quests to a thousand or more. The city itself of course turned out with its thousands, rendering the ceremonies of the day highly interesting. The prophet (Heneral Smith) made a speech to the immense multitude...


Notes: (forthcoming)

A  TEMPEST  IN  A  TEAPOT.

We have just learned that the great Anti-Mormon meeting at Carthage, Illinois came off on Wednesday last. Much excitement prevailed during the meeting, many speeches were made, and a number of resolutions adopted. Among other things it was resolved that there should be no more "revelations" about election times, or if so, that the Mormons must depart from the county. Indeed we have heard that a committee had been appointed by the meeting to warn them to leave. The meeting numbered about 500 to 600 persons. The Mormons can poll in Hancock county about 2000 or 3000 votes. Rather too great a number to be much alarmed by their Carthagenian brethren...


Notes: (forthcoming)

... Although much complaint has been made about the Mormons, we saw on our late trip evidences of improvement on our prairies, which we consider highly creditable to the Mormons who made them, and without whom we doubt whether they would have been made for many years to come. All those who have travelled over the large prairie between fort Madison, Warsaw, and Carthage, remember how dreary it was a few years since. Now it is studded with houses and good farms. The English, who understand hedging and ditching far better than our people, have gone upon that prairie and have enclosed extensive fields in this manner. Along the old Rock Island Trace, which we travelled seven years ago, and which was then a dreary waste, we saw a field enclosed with a good sod fence, six miles long and one wide. We think such enterprise is worthy to be mentioned. As long as the Mormons are harmless and do not interfere with the rights of our people, we think they should be treated well. We shall never convince them that they are a deluded people, as far as their religious notions are concerned, in any other way....


Notes: (forthcoming)

Letter from Gen. Bennett.

The following was received several weeks since, during our absence. We now lay it before our readers, as we believe many of them are interested in every thing pertaining to the Mormons. Gen. B. it will be recollected, once belonged to that sect, and published a book in exposition of their doctrines and practices. We of course assume none of the responsibility of the statements contained in this letter; but give it as we received it.

                                          Moscow, Iowa, Oct. 28th A. D. 1843.
Mr. James G. Edwards, SIR:-- According to promise, I now address you a few lines in relation to the new doctrine of "MARRYING FOR ETERNITY," lately gotten up by the Holy Joe, the Rough He-Goat of Mormonism, for the benefit of his flock. Joe says that as "they neither marry, nor are given in marriage; but are as the angels which are in Heaven," in eternity, it has been revealed to him that there will be no harmony in heaven unless the Saints select for their companions and marry IN TIME FOR ETERNITY!!! They must marry in time so as to begin to form that sincere attachment and unsophisticated affection which is so necessary to consummate in eternity in order to the peace of Heaven. So Joe Smith has lately been married to his present wife Emma, for eternity as well as for time. The doctrine is that a man may select as many wives for eternity as his devotion to the interests of the Mormon Church will entitle him -- and this is to be determined by revelation through His Holiness, the Prophet!

This "marrying for eternity" is not the Spiritual Wife doctrine" noticed in my Expose, but an entirely new doctrine established by special Revelation. The "SPIRITUAL WIVES," for time! and the "CELESTIAL WIVES," for eternity! The Mormons are now busily engaged in carrying out the doctrine.

There is another matter of more importance which I wish to mention. On the 16th inst., Governor Carlin informed me that he was informed by a conspicuous Mormon that it was susceptible of the clearest proof that MORE THAN TWENTY OF THE LEADING MORMONS WERE ENGAGED IN HIRING O. P. ROCKWELL TO SHOOT GOVERNOR BOGGS! This is a matter of much importance, as I was not before aware that any excepting Joe Smith was in engaged in paying Rockwell for the felonious deed. I hope that Missouri will respond to the call of the Anti-Mormon Convention of Illinois in relation to another demand for the Mormon Prophet, for I am now fully satisfied that the principal witnesses are afraid to, and will not, testify unless Joe is secured -- for they would do it at the sacrifice of their lives. I am now more fully satisfied than ever that if Joe is secured all the testimony both in relation to Smith and Rockwell will be forthcoming. The report here to-day is that Missouri has responded to the call, and that a new warrant will issue -- I hope it is true, for I will as fast as possible secure the testimony of material witnesses. In haste.   Yours Respectfully,
                                          JOHN C. BENNETT.

---

Capt. Marryatt's new book, entitled "Travels and adventures of Monsieur Violet," is said to be a complete plagiarism, made up principally out of Kendall's sketches, which have been published in the New Orleans Picayune.


Notes: (forthcoming).

The Warsaw Message of the 10th says, there was a great excitement at Carthage, on the 6th, "in consequence of the arrest of a citizen of that place by a possee of Mormons from Nauvoo, on a charge of basterdy." The citizens of C., would not permit the man to be taken to Nauvoo for trial. There was a great commotion but no blood shed.


Notes: (forthcoming).

"Jo  Smith."

The Warsaw Message contains a most curious document from Smith, purporting to be an appeal to the Green Mountain Boys to come and assist him in subduing the Missourians. It is the most bombastic affair we have ever seen. He appeals to them on account of his having been born in Vermont, and urges them to do all sorts of things to avenge his wrongs. We will endeavor to give some extracts in our next.


Notes: (forthcoming).

There appears to be a great deal of hatred an animosity existing between the Carthegeneans and the "Latter Day Saints," which will, if not soon quelled, break out in a general rupture and cause some blood to be shed. A threat has been made by the latter to fire the town and lay it in ashes, while that of the former at their meeting passed strong and war-like resolutions to repel all attacks that may be made.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Below we give copious extracts from Jo Smith's Appeal to the Green Mountain Boys. In addition, we have seen something of a piece with this in the shape of a correspondence between Mr. Calhoun and 'Jo.' The letter, in a brief epistle to Mr. Calhoun, enquires what Mr. C's course would be towards the Mormons, in the event he is elected to the Presidency.

Mr. C. replies as briefly, and in a very sensible manner, stating that government has no power to interfere in matters pertaining to his sect either for or against it. This nettles "Jo." who sends back a two or three column letter, in which he says all sorts of naughty things about Mr. Calhoun, giving him to understand that he cannot expect the support of his men, &c. &c. Smith seems determined, if possible, to obtain a redress of grievances, for the treatment his people received from Missouri, and he is right, if he will use nothing but fair and honorable means.

General  Joseph  Smith's
Appeal to the Green Mountain Boys.
To the Freemen of the State of Vermont,
"The Brave Green Mountain Boys," and Honest Men

I was born in Sharon, Vermont in 1805...

For this text see the Jan. 17, 1844 Warsaw Message

---

The Warsaw Message hits off Joe's pomposity and vanity, and pretentions to a knowledge of the languages, thus"

"The appeal to the Green Mountain Boys for aid to assist in "licking" the Missourians, made by Joe Smith a month or two ago -- will be found in another column. No doubt but all the Ethan Allens and Gen. Starks in the State of Vermont will soon be 'on their winding way,' to assist their esteemed brother!

To show our great learning, after the fashion of the 'Appeal,' -- were we a Vermonter, we would say: Boo woo waugh! Josephi. -- (You can't come it Josey!) Were we a Turk, we would say: Noah shah mahomet. (You can't act mahomet.) Or a Western Indian, we would yell: Che-mo-ko-mon, Jo-Smith-e-kuk hah ugh! (White man, Joe Smith, very unsartin.) But as we are, we shall only say: Some men are fools by nature; and others are fools for lucre.


Notes: (forthcoming).

Another candidate for the Presidency has entered the field. This important personage is the Prophet of the "Latter Day Saintsm" Gen. Joseph Smith. We have not learnt whether he intends to submit his claims to a National Convention, or whether he will run upon his own hook. We jusge from the marks of his own organ, that he considers himself a dull team for the whole of them.


Notes: (forthcoming)

"The Latter Day Saints" are determined to make an effort to complete their Temple this summer. The last "Nauvoo Neighbor" says: "It is in contemplation to devote all our energies to the completion of the Temple this season, and to let the Nauvoo House stand until the Temple is finished. By a unity of efforts, it is expected that the roof can be got on by next fall, and the building be enclosed."   At the head of its columns stands in bold relief the name of GEN. JOSEPH SMITH, for President, and Gen. JAMES A. BENNETT, of New York, for Vice-President.


Notes: (forthcoming)

We find the following scrap of Mormon news in the Mo. Republican, of the 22d inst. "We see it stated, that the Mormon Prophet Jo Smith has turned his wife out of doors for being in conversation with a gentleman of the sect, which she hesitated or refused to disclose. It was understood yesterday, that she had arrived in this city."

---

We find in the Nauvoo Neighbor of the 17th, an account of a conspiracy that has lately leaked out, in which several of the saints are implicated. They have been charged with having uttered outrageous things against the Prophet and his family.


Notes: (forthcoming)

The Presidency -- Gen. Jo. Smith.

The Nauvoo Neighbor of last Wednesday contains the following, by which we learn that the Mormons feel quite sanguine of doing something in the Presidential way after all

Public  Meeting.

Yesterday at ten o'clock A. M., a Public Meeting was held in the large room, over Gen. Smith's Store, for the purpose of consulting upon measures for the furtherances of our designs in the next Presidential election.

The meeting was addressed in a very spirited manner by several gentlemen present setting forth our grievances, our rights, our numbers, and our political influence. -- From the statements presented, we have no reason to doubt, but that we can bring, independent of any other party, from two to five hundred thousand voters, into the field. Several gentlemen were nominated to attend to the Baltimore Convention, to make overtures to that body.

It was resolved, that a State Convention be held in the city of Nauvoo, on the 2d day of May next.

Mr. W. W. Phelps, moved that the proceedings of this meeting be published in the Nauvoo Neighbor, with a request that the State Register, Sangamo Journal and all other papers in the State publish the same.
                              JOHN TAYLOR, Pres't.
                              WM. CLAYTON, Clerk.

---

It is in contemplation to hold a National convention, in the city of Baltimore, or in some other eastern city, as shall be agreed on.
Notes: (forthcoming).

Exposure of Mormonism -- Great row in Boston. -- An unusual crowd assembled at Marlboro Chapel, Boston, on the evening of the 27 ult. to hear Mr. John Dennett, (wonder if it shouldn't read Bennett?) upon the subject of Mormonism. A number of Mormons attended, and evinced a strong desire to break up the meeting, even before the exercises commenced. It seems that while Mr. Dennett (or Bennett) was among the Mormons he unfortunately formed acquaintance with a female Mormon, by which he was led into a lamentable mishap, and was expelled by them. Of this sin he has since, he says, repented, but declares that the Mormons being guilty of the same offence, should not have cast the first stone at him. Whilst engaged in his discourse, he was assailed from every direction with rotten eggs, Chinese crackers, and a variety of other offensive missiles, A cessation of firing took place, and the crowd demanded a song. He complied and gave them two or three verses of 'Rory O'Morre,' but it failed to please the crowd, and the battery of rotten eggs was again opened upon the unfortunate orator, who stood it as long as possible but was at last obliged to fly, which he did, with the whole mob at his heals. -- Gaz.


Notes: (forthcoming)

A PETITION from Joe Smith, praying Congress to allow him to raise a company of volunteers, for the protection of emigrants to the unsettled territories of the United States, was presented in the House by Mr. Semple of Illinois, on the 6th.


Notes: (forthcoming)

A prospectus has been issued for a new paper at Nauvoo, Illinois to be called the "Nauvoo Expositor," and intended to be the organ of the new, or seceding church, who have renounced Jo Smith and set up for themselves.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Nauvoo papers inform us that Jo Smith was lately arrested by virtue of a writ from the District Court of Hancock county, and that forthwith a habeas corpus was issued by the Municipal Court of Nauvoo and Jo was discharged. Here we see some of the damnable effects of locofoco legislation: the consequences produced by the hot headed proceedings of a partizan Legislature. The State authorities are set at naught, in fact, superseded by a petty city court. A habeas corpus and a trial by an ex parte judge set at defiance the laws of a sovereign State. Crimes without number and of the utmost enormity may be committed with impunity. A criminal has but to seek refuge in Nauvoo, become a Saint and he is safe from the hands of justice. Such is the effect of the amalgamation of the Mormons and locos. The city of the State has long been a nuisance. Texas bears no comparison with it in point of iniquities. It is far beyond it in point of respectability. We are glad to learn that a new paper is to be published at Nauvoo, called the "Expositor," in opposition to Jo Smith and his authority. We trust it will be a true expositor and unmask the whole gang who have so long been a curse to all around them.


Notes: (forthcoming).

DARING  OUTRAGE.

We learn by passengers on the New Brazil that the new printing office of the "Expositor" at Nauvoo, was totally demolished on Monday night, by order of Jo Smith. Will the people countenance such an attack on the freedom of the Press?

Notes: (forthcoming).

OUTRAGE  AT  NAUVOO,

On Tuesday last a most outrageous act was perpetrated in the city of the Latter Day Saints, which may in the event prove the downfall of that great city. It appears that a large number of the leading members of the church have of late become dissatisfied with the teachings of their Prophet, and in consequence of which they were read out of the church. These dissenters then formed themselves into a body and were endeavoring to establish a new church. They frequently held meetings as we are informed in the city, and for the purpose of furthering their cause, and disseminating their views in regard to the Prophet and to expose the secret sins there, they purchased a press and a large quantity of type and removed it into the city. On Friday a week [ago], they issued the first number of their paper entitled the "NAUVOO EXPOSITOR;" it had scarcely been circulated abroad before the city council held a meeting, in which his Honor the Prophet presided, and declared that the publishing of the paper in the confines of the city was a public nuisance, and ordered it to be removed from out of the city, within three hours time. A mob immediately proceeded to the office and commenced battering down the press, whilst others were engaged carrying out the cases of type, books, &c., piling them up in a heap in front of the door, and afterwards set fire to it and burned the whole up. A more highhanded and outrageous act we will venture to say has never been committed in a civilized community. It is stated that great fears are entertained in the city of a general rupture. Many of the dissenters have in consequence, left, fearing that their lives were in danger. We have heard it reported that a meeting was to be held at Carthage, Ill., for the purpose of raising an armed force to proceed to Nauvoo for the purpose of taking the Prophet, and it is also rumored that hundreds more held themselves in readiness to march over from Missouri at a moments notice. We cannot for a moment believe that such an outrage as this will, or can be overlooked by the people of Illinois. The freedom and liberty of the press should at all times be guarded against violence, and we predict that if such an act of outrage is permitted to be passed over, then indeed we may bid adieu to our sacred liberties.

The New Purchase arrived here on Wednesday evening last from Nauvoo, bringing on board a large number of the dissenters with their families and goods. Great excitement was then prevailing in the city, and it was feared that before morning the whole of their property would be destroyed; many of them own some good and valuable buildings in the city. Most of them went to Burlington the same evening. We fear the glory of the Prophet is fast setting.


Notes: (forthcoming)

LATEST  FROM  NAUVOO.

Wednesday, June 19, 5 o'clock O. M. A boat from nelow brings us the information that Jo Smith has 1500 men under arms at Nauvoo and that no person is allowed to leave or depart without his permission. It is reported that 3,000 men are assembled at Warsaw who will march for Nauvoo this day.

---

From the St. Louis Reveille.

WAR  AMONG  THE  MORMONS.
Latest from Nauvoo -- "The time is Come"
The Prophet in Danger.

An extra from the office of the Warsaw Signal, came to us yesterday morning, containing some further statement about the present trouble at Nauvoo. This is the way the Signal talks about it. Heading his extra with,

"The Time is Come!"

he goes on, after stating the matter, as follows;

We have only to state, that this is sufficient! War and extermination is inevitable! 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!!

LATER -- 6 o'clock, P. M. We have just learned from Carthage, that writs have been procured, and officers despatched to Nauvoo, to arrest the perpetrators of the outrage.

It is also rumored, that Joe is causing the arrest of every man in Nauvoo, who is opposed to him, and does not justify his proceedings.

By the stage driver we learn, that the press, &c., were destroyed a little after sun down, last evening.

We await the final result with anxiety. Much excitement exists; but the course determined on, is to throw Joe into opposition in the laws.

It seems that, in destroying the Expositor office, Jo's orders were, if resistance were made, for the officers to demolish the building, and property, of all who were concerned in punishing said paper; and, also, take all into custody who might refuse to obey the authorities of the city.

Accordingly, a company consisting of some 200 men, armed and equipped with muskets, swords, pistols, bowie-knives, sledge-hammers, &c., assisted by a crowd of several hundred minions. who volunteered their services on the occasion, marched in the building, and breaking open the doors with a sledge-hammer, commenced the work of destruction and desolation.

They tumbled the press and materials into the street, and set fire to them, demolished the machinery with a sledge-hammer, and injured the building very materially.

---

The following is from the Warsaw Signal of Wednesday:

FURTHER  PARTICULARS  FROM  NAUVOO.

We have conversed with a gentleman of undoubted veracity, who was in Nauvoo and present in the council room, at the time the ordinance to destroy the Expositor press was under consideration, and from him we received the following items from the speeches of Joe and Hyrum Smith.

Joe became very much excited in the course of his speech, and appeared wrathy at his own followers, because of their not entering into his schemes with sufficient zeal. In giving vent to his feelings he used the following language: "If you (the people of Nauvoo) will not stick by me, and WADE TO YOUR KNEES IN BLOOD FOR MY SAKE, you may go to Hell and be Damned, and I will go and build another City!!!"

Hyrum directed his fire against the PRESS; and in relation to the editor of this paper, he made use of the following language: "We had better send a message to long-nosed Sharp, that if he does not look out he might be visited with a PINCH OF SNUFF, that will make him SNEEZE." At this burst of oratory, the council were convulsed with laughter.

In relation to our Press," he said, "If any person would go to Warsaw boldly, in daylight, and BREAK THE PRESS of the SIGNAL OFFICE, with a sledge hammer, I will bear him out in it, if it cost him his farm. He could only be taken with a warrant at any rate, and what good will that do?

These extracts will show, the Rulers of Nauvoo have doffed their saintly robes, and have come out in their true characters of HELLISH FIENDS. Yes! Hyrum & Joe are as truly Devils, as though they had served an apprenticeship of half of eternity in the Infernal Pit.


Notes: (forthcoming).

ANTICIPATED  TROUBLE.

Our town for the last few days has been thrown into great excitement in consequence of the anticipated difficulties with the Mormons. In our last we made mention of the burning of a press in Nauvoo, the city of "Latter day Saints," by order of the city council, this, and other acts said to have been committed by the Mormons, has aroused the people of Illinois, and we now learn that hundreds of them properly armed and equipped hold themselves in readiness to march at a moments notice to Nauvoo, to aid and assist the authorities of that state. We understand that the authorities of Hancock county, Ill., have several writs in their hands for the arrest of the Prophet and those concerned in demolishing the press, and in case they refuse to comply with the laws of that state, they will then march into the city and take them peaceably if they can, and forcibly if they must. We also learn that the Prophet has his "Legion" in readiness properly drilled and disciplined, determined to avenge all encroachments that may be made, and that by his order Marshal Law has been strictly put in force in that city, so that no one is permitted to enter in or out of the city without their first showing a passport from General Smith.

Public meetings are daily held in different counties of Illinois, and it is reported that over four hundred men are now under discipline in Carthage, and over one thousand men are now in readiness at Warsaw, Ill., ready to aid the authorities in the discharge of their duty. We know not what will be the result of all this -- at present things seem to wear a warlike appearance.


Notes: (forthcoming)

NAUVOO  AFFAIRS.

The Warsaw Signal of June 20th, says that 250 men mustered at that place the day before; which is a falling off, as it was reported here, that 3000, and some said 5000, were assembled at that city. The same paper says that 300 were encamped at Carthage and that the Mormons say they have 4000 strong. The Democrat of Fort Madison issued an extra, on Saturday the 22nd, which we have before us and which states that Martial Law is in force in Nauvoo -- that Governor Ford arrived at Carthage on the 21st, and that he had approved the order of the Brigadier general calling upon the militia who refused to comply until the Governor had sanctioned it. Numerous rumors are afloat in town but we give them no credit. In fact, we have nothing more definite than the above, though it may be possible that Jo, as reported, has left Nauvoo, or has given himself up to Governor Ford.


Notes: (forthcoming).

DREADFUL  OUTRAGE.

DEATH  OF  THE  MORMON  PROPHET  AND  HIS  BROTHER!

We stop the press to hasten to lay before our readers the Murder of Joseph Smith and his brother Hyram. The news reached here early the morning of yesterday, but little credence was at the time given to the report, until about 3 P. M., when we received from the hands of a gentleman direct from the city of Nauvoo the following developments which fully corroborate the report. They are written by a gentleman of undoubted veracity for truth, and the statement thus given of this horrible assassination may be relied on as correct.

---

      To the Editor of the "Lee Co. Democrat:"

Nauvoo, June 28th, 1844.
9 o'clock A. M. Sir, -- I hasten to inform you that Joseph Smith, the Mormon Prophet, and his brother Hyram Smith, were murdered in a jail of this county, at about 5 o'clock yesterday afternoon.

On Monday last Smiths gave themselves up to the civil authorities under the most solemn assurances of Governor Ford, that they should be protected, and received no personal violence. On Tuesday they both, by advice of Counsel, voluntarily without examination, entered into recognition for their appearance at the next Term of the Hancock Circuit Court, to answer to the charge of riot on which they had been arrested. -- While they were in custody under the above charge they were arrested on a charge of Treason against the State of Illinois, and without any examination committed to jail, there to remain until discharged by due course of law. On Wednesday they were brought before Justice Smith, and time given until 12 o'clock, Thursday, to get witnesses ready for trial. On the same day the Governor held a council of war, or rather of officers, and determined to march all the troops with the exception of one company into the city of Nauvoo, where he was assured by Captain Singleton who was stationed at Nauvoo, that all was peace and quiet. The examination of Smiths in consequence of this determination to march to Nauvoo were from some cause postponed until Saturday next. On Thursday morning the orders for all the troops to march to Nauvoo were from some cause countermanded and most of the troops at Carthage, some 800 in number were disbanded. One company of some 50 men were left at Carthage to protect the prisoners, only 8 of this Company was stationed at the jail as guards while the remainder of the company were in camp a quarter of a mile distant. His Excellency with some fifty or sixty horsemen, marched to Nauvoo where he made a stump speech to what he called the military saints, advising them among other things to give up all their arms, as they had given up those belonging to the state.

In absence of the Governor, an armed and disguised band of men, said to be about two hundred in number attacked the jail, overpowered the guard of eight men, entered the jail and shot both the Smiths. Hyrum received a ball in the head, and merely had time to exclaim, "I am a dead man," and expired; Joseph Smith received a number of balls which pierced his body, some while still in the jail, and others after he reached the ground, he exclaimed, "O God," -- and expired. Elder Taylor who was also in the jail, not a prisoner, but as a friend of Smiths, received several flesh wounds, none of which were considered dangerous. The murderers immediately escaped to the woods, before the company of soldiers, left at Carthage, arrived at the jail. The murderers were disguised with paint and of course not known; it is supposed that some of those who made the attack were wounded by the guard who fired upon them, but no so as to prevent their escape.

The news was received here about daylight this morning, by messengers and a letter from Governor Ford; his excellency calls upon the Mormons to prepare themselves for any attack that may be made upon them; and says that he has again called out the troops ...

---

Head Quarters, Carthage.
      June 29th,
            4 o'clock, A. M. Fellow Citizens of Hancock County: --
      Every prospect of danger from the Mormon population of this county is removed and those who have retired from their homes in its apprehension, are required forthwith to aid in allaying public excitement by a speedy return. A communication this A. M. received from the authorities of Nauvoo, brings the most satisfactory assurances that no retaliation or aggression will be resorted to by the citizens [in] any part of the county. The butchery of the prisoners at Carthage has the execrations of the great mass of our citizens. The humane and patriotic of Adams co. are gathering at Carthage for the maintenance of our laws against the violators of law of any party. The command of Col. Flood consisting of 220 well armed and efficient men will be at Carthage this A. M. for the preservation of order. The Governor's return from Adams is hourly expected. It is believed that no other forces will be necessary for the public safety.       (Signed)
                                    M. R. Demming.
                                    Brig. Gen.


Note: Considering the confusion of the times, the Democrat's reporting in this issue was remarkably accurate. Some other news articles, published during the next several days presented grossly inaccurate accounts of the dismal events at Carthage Jail.

M O R M O N.

Peace and quiet reign once more in the City of the Latter Day Saints. The calm is if that peculiar nature that is experienced by a people dismayed by a dreadful calamity. We trust, however, that all will remain tranquil. We understand that a great many emigrants are arriving there and some are leaving. On Friday the 28th ult., the bodies of Joseph and Hyram Smith, were brought to Nauvoo, and were met outside by about 10,000 persons. They were placed at the Mansion House and exhibited to about 20,000 people. They were interred the next morning. Elder Adams has gone East to consult with the Elders residing there in relation to church affairs, the organizing or re-organizing the church, &c.


Notes: (forthcoming).

OUR  POLITICS.

A word now from us on this subject will be sufficient. While we stand connected with "THE ENSIGN" as we now do, its columns will never be used to foster the objects of any political party whatever... We have been led to these remarks from reading a few strange and singular lines in our neighbor, 'The Davenport Gazette.' refering to us -- the climax of which is. "But we are led to believe that this society will profit by the error of the Mormons, and refrain from taking part with the politics of their country." ...

There is another remark of the gentleman's we wish to notice. In speaking of us in connection with the Mormons, in relation to a political party, he says: "They sought, as their prototypes of Illinois, by fawning upon a similar sect, recently sprung up among us, to win their votes."... But we confess we are at a loss to understand that part of the above sentence contained in these words, comparing us, as we suppose, to the Mormons; (as he pleases to call them,) "A similar sect recently sprung up among us." The editor being a religious man, we do not wish to charge him with falsehood; but we do wish, as he has made a direct attack upon us, for him to give his political paper somewhat of a religious turn long enough, at least, to explain himself, and show "the similarity."... We are perfectly willing to confess our ignorance of "a similarity" between the church of 'Latter Day Saints,' and the one to which we are attached. One thing we have to say, and we want it distinctly understood -- we have no bond of union or fellowship existing between us and the Mormons...

---

G. M. HINKLE TO W. W. PHELPS.

          Buffalo, Scott County, I. T.,
                            August 14, 1844.

To W. W. Phelps, Esq., Nauvoo, Ill.
   My dear Sir, -- After so long a time, I take my pen to address a few lines to you, and thus break that perfect silence which has existed between us ever since we parted in Far West, Missouri, in the Fall of 1838. Then you and I were both dissenters from the church of 'Latter Day Saints;' though we do not dissent upon exactly the same principles -- for I only dissented from the unwise, unhallowed management of the heads or authorities of the church, and not from any true points of doctrine which I ever had believed. -- But you said to me that you dissented from the whole Mormon system.

Since then I have been told by good authority, such as Hyrum Smith and others, that you have returned to the bosom of the church, and have been received again to fellowship, and all seems to be well with you -- if you are happy in the course you are now taking, all I have now to say to you is, at the tribunal of heaven you will have to answer for all your deeds done in the body.

But Sir, there is one point upon which I wish to address the Latter Day Saints through you, in order that the honest hearted and ignorant minded may be corrected, and the malicious hearted slanderers put to shame. It has been the theme of many ever since I left Missouri, to calumniate and vilify me for the course which I, as the acting Colonel of the Militia of Caldwell, pursued in the surrender of the citizens of Far West, Caldwell, &c., to the authorities of Missouri. Those vilifiers have stated it, and vociferated its repetition throughout the length and breadth of our happy land -- and the newspapers of the day have thrown it upon the wings of the wind, and no doubt it has gone to the old world, and there been listened to and credited -- especially by those of your faith -- that I, as a base wretch, after having the confidence of the church -- yet in that critical moment of their perils in Missouri, when they in and or Far West were besieged by between three and four thousand men -- the story is, that I, there and then, betrayed 'the Heads of the Church' into the hands of the Military authorities of Missouri, and that too, for a large sum of money! And then, as if they intended to heap disgrace upon me, after insult and injury, they say that I turned State's evidence against them: -- also, that I informed on many of the citizens of Far West, had them arrested and delivered up to the court of inquiry, to be punished. And many such like reports have been put in circulation by my enemies to do me injury; all of which, before God, I do declare to be as false as Satan himself.

Now Sir, you are the man who knows more about it than any other man belonging to your church. You know that you, John Corrill, A. Morrison, and myself, were appointed by Joseph Smith to go and confer with the commanding officers of the Missouri Militia, and effect a treaty if possible, on any terms short of a battle. -- You know that we went and risked our lives with a white flag, when only a few hours previous, the bearer of one (Charles Rich) had been fires at on the same field, and we did this to obey the order or request of Joseph Smith. Our object was (at least I felt so,) to prevent the effusion of blood, which we all saw must inevitably soon take place, unless something could be immediately done. Were you not present, Sir, at that trying scene? when the eyes of our enemies seemed almost to flash fire when we approached, and I received from the hand of Major General Lucas that unhallowed paper narrating to us the terms upon which the lives of our families and friends could be saved -- viz.: "Give up your leaders -- your principal men, as hostages to be tried by civil law. Give up all your arms of defence, and ALL leave the State forthwith." He also read to us that generous -- no -- that execrable order of Governor Boggs, authorizing him to exterminate us, or drive us from the State. -- Now Sir, I appeal to your candor: did I, at this critical moment, say to General Lucas, or to any of those with him, Give me a sum of money, Judas like, and I will comply? If you answer in the affirmative, then query, were you and the others of the delegation to go partners with me in such an unhallowed speculation? What! thus betray our friends -- our brethren into the hands of their implacable enemies in the hour of peril -- and that too for Missouri gold!!! Or, if I did, as has been reported by men in high authority among you, winked at by all, and not contradicted by any -- at least so far as I know -- did I take the price and snugly lodge it all in my own pocket, without dividing with any of you? You know I did not make that treaty alone. Nay, you well remember that yourself and others with us, by authority, or request of Joseph Smith himself, agreed to the disgraceful terms. We then urged all to submit. But did I not then and there oppose that part of the order requiring us to give up our arms and immediately leave the State, urging that if any had offended by breaking the law we were willing and even anxious that such should be punished to the extent of justice, or the magnitude of the crime -- but to give up our arms and leave the State, would be virtually throwing away our most sacred rites as citizens of a republican state; and that we would about as soon give up our lives? Did he not become enraged and say that Joseph Smith, Sidney Rigdon, Lyman Wight, P. P. Pratt, and G. W. Robinson must be given up; and no other terms would do? Did he not give us half an hour to consult our friends? When the facts were laid before Joseph, did he not say, "I will go:" and did not the others go with him, and that too voluntarily, so far as you and I were concerned? My understanding was, that those men were to be taken and kept till next morning as hostages. And if they did not, upon reflection and consultation with the officers in the camp of the enemy, during the night, conclude to accept of the terms proposed to us, but chose to fight, then they were to be kept safely, and returned to us in the city next morning, unharmed: and time given us to prepare for an attack by the Militia. During this whole interview and transaction, were not thousands of troops drawn up near the city, ready to fall upon us, provided those demanded as hostages refused to go? And when Smith and the others had given up, without any compulsory measures from us, did not General Lucas demand our arms; but on reflection he agreed to let us retain them till next day, insomuch as it was then about sunset? Were we not advised next day, by word sent expressly from Joseph Smith to us, to surrender? -- When that intelligence was received, did I not draw up the forces under my command, and explain to them the nature of the whole affair, and then request all who were in favor of surrendering, to make it known by marching three faces forward? They made a very slow start, but finally all came forward. We then marched out with slow and solemn step, into a partial hollow square of the enemy, faced inward, grounded arms, and marched away and left them. The town was laid under Martial law and guarded. Then the authorities commenced taking others as prisoners, and kept them under guard to be tried, as they said, by civil law.

No man ever knew me to complain of, or inform on any one. Uniformly when questioned by those seeking victims, I told them that all I knew to be guilty of breaking the law, had fled from the city the night before the surrender. When the Court of Enquiry held its session in Richmond, I did not turn State's evidence, but was legally subpoenaed, as you know.

Therefore, as to my course of conduct there, even under trying circumstances, while retrospecting it, I have no cause of regret. And during the time I was a member of that Church, before God and all men, I have a clear conscience; and am willing to give an account of my course at any time.

While I lived in that church I tried to live in peace; and when I left it, I did not leave in order to persecute it, but to get from under the priestly influences of those men who bore down upon those who opposed their views, with an iron rule; with a yoke too intolerable for a high minded man, or an humble christian spirit to bear. Past experience had already shown me, that as soon as any one, but especially those of note among them, would leave them, he must suffer all kinds of abuse. -- The motto was "His character must be ruined, or he will injure us." And in return, the Dissenters have said, "Down with the heads of the church; down with the church." And I know that they have sometimes used base means, and published many falsehoods, and brought much persecution on you. This has been my course. I despise the course which both parties have pursued. I am for peace and for truth, and truth only on all subjects. -- Notwithstanding the many slanders that have been set afloat about me, in order to injure and ruin me, this is the first scrap that I have ever published on the subject: and I have written and published this out of mere necessity, in self-defence. I have hitherto been determined, let them say what they would or could, I would bear it, and leave the event with God. Almost six years have rolled away since I withdrew my labors and influence from among that people; and notwithstanding my reserve, some of them still continue to roll down their satanic falsehoods upon me. -- I have been informed that one of your number is now in adjoining neighborhood to this, asserting that I sold the heads of the church, in Missouri, for $700.00. Now Sir, as you are the man who was engaged in the whole affair with me, I request that you write a letter for publication, and either put it in the 'Times and Seasons,' or send it to me; and in it exempt me from those charges, and correct the minds of that people and the public on this subject -- for you know that they are as base as the blackness of darkness, and as false as Satan himself. If I felt to retaliate, or to do as other dissenters have done, I might publish much, and do it in truth, about the wickedness of that people; and it might add to the already exasperated state of feelings now existing against them: but, Sir, that is not my purpose. I feel, and always have, to leave them in the hands of God, and to mind my own business; -- and I assure you I find enough to do to attend strictly to my own duty: -- therefore, write and exhort your brethren "to go and do likewise."

Very respectfully, your friend and well wisher,      G. M. HINKLE.


Note 1: The first mention of Elder Hinkle and his followers, in the columns of the Iowa papers, seems to have been an article in the June 3, 1843 issue of the Lee County Democrat. The article in the Davenport paper that Hinkle makes mention of above has yet to be located.

Note 2: In an article in the Jan. 1, 1844 issue of the Times and Seasons, Elder W. W. Phelps says: "So now, dear brother, while I respect you and the "Twelve," and all their kin, as my own blood relations, shall we... turn to the beggarly elements of the world, to work our passage back to popularity and hell, for a 'mess of portage,' like Hinkle, Bennett, Laws, Rigdon and Co?" In the May 1, 1845 issue of that paper, a correspondent speaks of Smith as, "the seer that the Lord" not turning aside in his course "when Hinkle and McLellin or others betrayed him into the hands of others for slaughter..." Phelps, however, chose not to acknowledge George M. Hinkle's Aug. 14, 1844 letter in the pages of the Nauvoo press.

Mormon.

SIDNEY RIGDON has left Nauvoo for Pittsburgh and it is expected that a large number of English Mormons will follow him. There is great dissension among the leaders of the church. Emma, the deceased prophet's widow, has given much dissatisfaction in condequence of her refusing to transfer some of the church property which was in the prophet's name. I is said she is weak in the faith, and that she has purchased property at Hampton, where Law and other seceding mormons reside, where it is probable she may remove,

Brigham Young preached at Nauvoo on Sunday week and avowed his belief in the spiritual wife doctrine and said he wished he had a hundred. The Temple is progressing very rapidly as the leaders tell the people that when it is finished Joe will appear and dedicate it. Many are removing from Nauvoo, and more would if they could sell their property. The Mormons on Bear Creek had a meeting on Friday week and resolved to quit the country.

Lyman Wight has left Nauvoo, with about two hundred followers, for the pine country up the Mississippi. Gen. John C. Bennett has gone to Hampton. This place is in the Rock River region. The above we collated from the Warsaw Signal of the 4th.


Notes: (forthcoming).

Mormon  News.

The Warsaw Signal of the 11th says that it is rumored that on the previous Sunday, nineteen of the leading Mormons were ejected from the church at Nauvoo, among whom were John A. Forges and Emma Smith, the Prophet's widow. The temple is going up very fast as nearly the whole population is engaged upon it. The third tier of windows is ready to receive their capitals. Private building has almost entirely ceased as so many people are leaving the town, Property has fallen to about one third of its value, previous to the Prophet's death. Twenty-five Mormon families have left Bear Creek, and those at Morley's settlement are also leaving. Great dissensions continue and it is quite probable that in a year or two the followers of the Mormon Prophet will be scattered to the four quarters of the globe. A late St. Louis Republican says that Sidney Rigdon had arrived in that city on his way to Pittsburg, where he would establish a paper. He was still a believer in the doctrine, though the Twelve would not allow him to rule.


Notes: (forthcoming).

Letter of Sidney Rigdon, Esq.
To the Editor of the People's Organ.

DEAR SIR: -- Being in this city on my return from Nauvoo to Pittsburgh )the place of my residence,) I feel myself called upon to edify the public enquiry in relation to myself and a portion of the citizens of Nauvoo. It is pretty generally known that I left Nauvoo in June last, with my family, with the design of making my future residence in the city of Pittsburgh. On hearing of the murder of the two Smiths, I returned to Nauvoo, without any intention, however, of making Nauvoo my place of residence. During my stay in Nauvoo, a number of persons expressed a desire to go with me to Pittsburgh and reside some where in that region of country, where they could enjoy my society, as well as I theirs. This determination gave great offence to some of the citizens of Nauvoo. We held several meetings in relation to the matter -- not in the least doubting our right to do so if we chose -- when, to our surprise, a great excitement was got up -- meetings were appointed in different parts of the town, and were addressed by Brigham Young, Orson Hyde, Parley P. Pratt, Heber C. Kimball, Orson Pratt, Erastus Snow, and others. Inflammatory speeches were made, and a general excitement was created. We were traduced as mobocrats, as murderers, conspirators; and many other epithets of like character were applied to us. We were charged with conspiring against the lives of the before-mentioned persons: -- and all this for the sin of desiring to go to Pennsylvania to live with our families.

Orson Hyde (who is now in St. Louis, and who is calculating to preach to the good people of this city on Sunday next,) in a public meeting, used language calculated to excite an ignorant populace to commit violence on my person. His expressions were, (speaking of myself,) -- "I will not ride him on a rail -- no, I will not do it; but ought not a man reap that which he sows? If he gets up a mob, ought he not be mobbed?" This was said in the presence of a large assembly of people; and my great crime was, (for which I ought to be rode on a rail, or otherwise mobbed,) that a number of gentlemen of high respectability desired, if they could so arrange their business, to go with their families to Pittsburgh and there reside, and I had agreed to aid them all I could, and use my influence for their comfort and future prosperity.

On last Sunday, a conference was called of all the citizens of Nauvoo, to take our case under due consideration. Here, if I have been properly informed, my own character was assailed in a most shameful manner. I, with many others, were cut off from the church: -- all for the crime of wishing to go to Pittsburgh and live.

So great was the excitement, that some of my friends thought it unsafe for me to be out of doors in the night season.

Now, Sir, this unheard-of excitement grew out of the simple fact of myself and others wishing to go and settle somewhere in Pennsylvania; and for this crime, the said Orson Hyde (who on next Sunday is to preach righteousness to the people of St. Louis,) actually desired to raise a mob to commit violence on my person -- or else there is no meaning in language; and he has actually, after such shameful and unpardonable abuse, been on board the steamboat May Flower, where I am writing this communication, and requested me not to write certain things, in order to save himself from the shame or odium which must attach itself to him; or else he is destitute of all sense of shame.

I presume, Sir, a parallel to this case cannot be found in the history of the civilized world. A whole community of people excited till they actually called a peaceable number of citizens murderers, and every other evil epithet that malice could invent, because, forsooth, they were guilty of the awful crime of daring to leave Nauvoo without the permission of certain individual -- such as the before named. It is such mortals as the above named, who would claim the right to dictate religion to the world. When I conversed with Orson Hyde this day on the subject, he had the effrontery to tell me he did it from a sense of duty. I ask, whose life is safe, when men act from a sense of duty in such flagrant violation of the most sacred rights of others? I do know, Sir, that some of those persons who were calculating to take their families to Pennsylvania, were put in such fear as to fear to make their design known, for fear of abuse; and all this, says Orson Hyde, "we do from a sense of duty." What a sense of duty may lead such men to do, God only knows. For my own part, "I have not so learned Christ;" nor ever expect to learn him -- nor did any other man so learn him. From what Hyde said to me to-day, on the steamboat, I was satisfied that he feared disclosures would be made that might effect him during future life.

I did not leave Nauvoo because I feared them, but because I had staid beyond the time I calculated to stay when I left home, and because I had received a letter requesting my return home. As to any attack they can make on my character, I fear them not. I feel myself at their defiance, though they should assail me by falsehoods, which I conceive any man who can cloak wickedness under a pretended sense of duty can do by the same kind of conscience.
                                Yours, most respectfully,
                                            SIDNEY RIGDON.


Note: In its original appearance in the St. Louis People's Organ of Sept. 17th, this Rigdon letter was dated: "Sept. 12, 1844."

Sidney Rigdon has been turned out of the Mormon Church. His late letter to the Saint Louis Organ shows he has been scurvily treated. He has the reputation of being the principal mover in establishing the sect, and is now ostracised by his own creatures. Mormonism, like Democracy, "isn't what it used to was."


Notes: (forthcoming).

MORMON  TROUBLES.

Every indication in the Mormon camp is favorable to a complete rupture and disbanding of this misguided people. The death of Joe Smith appears to have an enervating influence upon his [deluded] followers. Sidney Rigdon, on the 12th inst. came out in the St. Louis Organ in a letter, throwing more light upon the lawless proceedings of the leaders of the church. He says that he was expelled from the body solely because a number of Mormons resolved to follow him to Pittsburg. Several indignation meetings were held at Nauvoo prior to his expulsion -- Orson Hyde, another leading impostor among the Mormons, has written a letter denying the statements made by Rigdon. He says Rigdon was expelled for offenses entirely different from those stated. We cannot but think with the editor of the St. Louis Era, that these Mormon leaders will soon satisfy all the world that they are just that description of man that they have been represented to be by those citizens of Missouri and Illinois, who have had the best opportunity of knowing them.

---

MORMON  NEWS.

By the last Nauvoo Neighbor, we perceive the hand of fellowship has been withdrawn from Elders Sidney Rigdon, James Emmet, and Zachariah Wilson. It is also rumored that on Sunday last, nineteen of the leading Mormons were rejected from the Church and among these were John A. Forges and Emma Smith, the widow of the Prophet; -- there appears to be a great dissension amongst the brethren -- something of importance is brewing but persons who live in the city seem entirely ignorant of what is really in contemplation, many honest Mormons are disaffected, and are removing from the city.

The Temple is still going ahead with surprising rapidity -- the third tier of windows being ready to receive their capitals. Above them is, to be a belt course of stone, and then six feet of plain cut stone work, will finish the walls. Nearly the whole population seems to receive support from their labor on the Temple; only about half a dozen private houses are now under way. If the contributions to the Temple should cease, the population would soon starve out, for there are no factories of any account in the city to give employment to any of the inhabitants. Confidence being destroyed by the death of Smith, private enterprise of the city is checked, and the people have recourse but to work for scanty substance on the temple. The leaders are well aware that their only hope of keeping the mass together is to find them employment; hence their exertions on this structure. Property has fallen in Nauvoo, to about one third of its value, previous to the death of Joe. This is a legitimate consequence of the anxiety of so many persons to get away from the city.

Sidney Rigdon has not started for Pittsburg, as we stated last week; but now since he is disfellowshipped, we may expect his influence to create a considerable rupture in the church. He has some influence, and is very determined, and there is no doubt but that he will be troublesome.

On Bear Creek, there have been some tall doings during the last week; some twenty-five families of Mormons drove from the settlement, but they took care to provide well for themselves before they left at the expense of the gentiles. Several horses, valued at about $700, were stolen on the night of their departure and also many head of cattle are amongst the missing. -- The thieves are known, but they have retired to Nauvoo, and of course are safe from the process of law.

The Mormons are leaving Morley settlement, about 12 miles south of this place, but we have not heard of any thefts in this neighborhood as yet.

John P. Greene, Marshal of the city of Nauvoo, died yesterday morning. -- Warsaw Signal.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE  MORMON  SPLIT.

The adherants of Rigdon have issued the following
statement in relation to their church difficulties.

TO THE MEMBERS OF THE CHURCH
OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER DAY SAINTS.

It becomes an imperative obligation devolving upon the friends and adherants of Pres. (SIDNEY RIGDON) to make an explicit and candid statement of the causes, which have led to their disunion and disfellowship with the adherents of the Twelve in their illegal and unwarrentable assumption of the authority of their first presidency.

It is well known to every well informed member of the church that the law, organization, and government of said Church is contained in the book of Doctrine and Covenants, as received through Joseph Smith by revelation. By reference to that book we find that the church is governed by the Presidents of the High Priesthood, appointed by revelation, whose duty is to preside over the whole church, the Twelve being subordinate to that authority and acting under its direction.

The melancholy catastrophe of the murder of Joseph Smith, the presiding President and Hyrum, his brother, resulted in having one individual only known to the church as pointed out by repeated revelations, as holding the Presidency and Keys of this last Kingdom, as Prophet, Seer and Revelator for the church, viz: Sidney Rigdon.

Pres. Rigdon, who was then in Pittsburgh, received instruction from the Lord to repair [to] this place and present himself to the church, for their acceptancere or rejection, which actually did result in his rejection, and the appointment of the Twelve (by a large majority) of the church to the presidency of the church and its entire control.

Verily believing as we do that this was a vital departure from the order of Heaven and a rejection of the only man, who sustained the legal relations of a revelator to the church, and who was competant to reorganize the first Presidency, we dissented and lifted our voices against such proceedings and manifested our adherence to Pres. Rigdon.

In consequence of this rejection Pres. Rigdon has received a commandment to reorganize the church and for this reason the Twelve and their adherants have assidyuously studied and striven to misrepresent the character and designs of Pres. Rigdon, and his friends, and have not scrupled to ascribe to them motives and designs the most base and dishonorable.

We do declare that Pres. Rigdon is above all malevolent aspirations of his reputation, and is known to us as a worthy, law-abiding citizen, and a gentleman of unblemished character.

We do moreover declare our sincere conviction, that in rejecting Sidney Rigdon, the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, nolonger exists, except in connection with him, and that God has given no authority for an organization of the church differing from that contained in the Book of Doctrine and Covenants.

Heretofore, the accused, has had the privilege of trial, and opportunity to reply to the charges brought against them, but on the memoriable 8th day of September, 1844, this privilege was denied in open and flagrant violations of all the laws and rules of the churche; thus manifesting clearly, that the course they have pursued towards us is one unsanctioned by law and unhallowed by justice.

Samuel James Leonard Soby J. B. Bosworth J. H. Newton Briggs Alden Elizah Reed John Evans Wm. Richards George [Soby] Sam. Bennett Jno. A. Forgus.

George W. Crouse Lewis James G. W. Robinson G. Bentley Wm. Coltien G. J. Lanyon David Scott Thomas Crompton J. Hatch, Jr. and many others.

Notes: (forthcoming)

Mormon  News.

Governor Ford of Illinois, has issued an order calling out 2500 militia from various counties in that State and requiring them, properly armed and equipped, to proceed to Hancock county. This order, it is supposed, was in consequence of a contemplated military encampment to take place at Warsaw from the 27th of September to the 2d of this month. A military meeting was held at Carthage last fall and this season it was to be held at Warsaw. The Governor fearing something hostile was intended or might ensue, forthwith issues his mandates to his loyal officers who call upon the rank and file. The Quincy Whig of the 25th ult. says that the Governor's order had been received in that city -- that a meeting was held and a call made for volunteers, and lo! five men enrolled their names and there was a "hot chase" after the sixth. The Whig says the people thought that his Excellency's proceedings were a mere electioneering scheme to gain the favor of the Mormons and procure votes at the Presidential election. Two uniform companies left that city on Sunday week for Hancock.

The Warsaw Signal of the 26th says that Gov. Ford was on his way to Hancock county with a large body of Sangamon and Morgan troops. The Mormons were much alarmed and dreaded the idea of the militia entering Nauvoo. Two or three Sundays since O. P. Rockwell and a Mr. Kimball had a fist combat, in which Rockwell was victorious and gave Kimball a fine chase through the streets, though Rockwell's shirt was torn off. The editor of the Signal, Thomas C. Sharpe, had a writ served on him Wednesday of last week. It was a warrant, issued by Justice Johnson of Nauvoo, for the murder of Joseph and H. Smith. On consultation with his friends, Mr. S. resolved not to obey the Justice's mandate and the officer left without him. The Lee County Democrat of the 28th ult. says that upwards of 500 militia were at Nauvoo, but for what purpose no one seemed to know. They were stationed at various points of the city, divided into companies. Many of the Mormons were frightened at such warlike movements and were leaving the city.


Notes: (forthcoming).

It is estimated that the recent Mormon war will cost the state of Illinois $20,000. The aggregate expense incurred during the year on account of the Mormons will not fall short of $50,000.


Notes: (forthcoming)

The  Mormon  War.

We were in Jacksonville when the troops returned from Nauvoo and Warsaw on Wednesday and Thursday of last week. It turned out to be a complete Tom Ford humbug and is set down as such by all. The fruits of it will be additional taxation on the people to pay expenses -- the killing of Norris, one of the Springfield Cadets -- and universal disgust at the action of the Governor.

Sharp, the editor of the Warsaw Signal, and Col. Williams, who had both retired to Missouri, and are accused as accessaries to the murder of the Smiths, held a treaty with Gov. Ford, and as the Governor complied with all their terms, they gave themselves up on Monday of last week. -- This farce would have lasted much longer, had it not been for the zeal and promptitude of Gen. Hardin.


Notes: (forthcoming).

We have seen a Proclamation from Gov. Ford, published in the Nauvoo Neighbor, offering a reward for two hundred dollars for the apprehension of Levi Williams, Thos. C. Sharp, editor of the Warsaw Signal, and Joseph H. Jackson, who are said to be accessory to the murder of Joe Smith and his brother Hiram. A number of writs were issued for the arrest of some seventy others. Williams and Sharp, have since been arrested and admitted to bail.


Notes: (forthcoming)

                                                 Nauvoo, Oct. 3, 1844.
MR. EDITOR, DEAR SIR: -- Inasmuch as times are big with interest in this city, distinguished in these latter days, and of late particularly notorious for new doctrines and new ideas. I have deemed it my privilege to enlighten yourself and the "gentile world," who sit in darkness, respecting events as they are passing here.

A man may travel over the wide earth, and unless he visits Nauvoo and becomes acquainted with the peculiarities of her people, he will be ignorant of half the wonders of the world. Since the death of the Prophet, the aspect of affairs has materially changed; the property of the city has fallen to one half its former value. and scarcely commands money at any price. Instead of immigration as heretofore, emigration is one important feature of the town this fall. Instead of receiving an accession of hundreds, several thousands have left, and many are trying to get away. The Twelve have usurped the reins of government, and with his "Holy Boldness," (B. Young) at their head, they are endeavoring to make their power felt in every part of Israel. Rejecting the Book of Doctrine and Covenants which states that a first Presidency shall be the Leaders of the Twelve and the whole Church, His Holy Boldness says: "It is Big Mr. I" who has the power to bind and loose, to seal and unseal, to marry and unmarry, to take one wife or a dozen, and to do all other things, which he and his co-workers in iniquity, may think proper, when met in secret council. We read in the good Books, "If any man lack wisdom let him ask of God" &c. -- but in the goodly city it has a very different meaning from what this ignorant world have generally supposed. According to the exposition of his Holy Boldness it is as follows: If any man lack wisdom, let him ask the Twelve. Take the case of Annanias.

Now Christians have believed that he was killed by the power of the Holy [Ghost]; but the theological world have not been illuminated in relation to the matter. Peter, being a violent, headstrong, passionate old fellow, killed Annanias with his own hand, but from the fact that Peter had the Holy Ghost upon him at the time, it was stated that he was slain by that power. Well, for the application -- If his Holy Boldness should kill a person, it would be perfectly right, since he holds a big bundle of Keys, as did Peter, and has the influence on him most of the time. Many circumstances prove how dearly they love their religion and their erring brethren, for they are ready to lie at all times for the one, and the foulest slander will blast the reputation of the other, if he should hesitate for a moment to bow the knee to Baal.

Persecution (about which they are ever cursing the world) is blooming here in all its malignant rancour, and all who will not worship at the shrine of their Idolatry, are hunted by the tongue of insult, indecency, and scurrility, and if they escape the "Brothers of Gideon," (of whom W. W. Phelps testified in Missouri) alias, the "Danite Band," they have need to thank their God. The Nauvoo Neighbor, with its misrepresentation, hypocrisy and falsehood, would fain make the world believe, that every thing is going on prosperously and harmoniously here, but more of the elements of discord and iniquity, cannot be found in the bosom of any other society. The infatuation of this people is truly astonishing, and such is the baseness of their leaders, that they must sooner or later find themselves involved in labrinths from extrication will be impossible. The poor devotees to Humbug are urging on the Temple with a desperation indicative of the last struggle of parting life, thinking, when it is completed, that they will receive power sufficient to overcome all opposition. Property and enough has doubtless been given to build two such structures, but still it is far from being finished. The labor of the poor has reared its imposing walls thus far, and. in all probability, no small portion of funds, appropriated for its erection, have furnished certain Dignitaries the means to live and bask in luxury. More than a hundred thousand dollars have been appropriated for the Nauvoo House, yet nothing but the cellar exhibits where this immense sum has gone. When a stranger comes into the city, especially a member of the church, if he has the unfortunate reputation of having money, he is soon visited by some leading worthy, who is in great want of a few hundred dollars, only for a few days, when it shall be positively returned. The inexperienced brother shells out a $100, to this one, a cool $1,000 to that and the other, until he is pretty genteelly fleeced in this way. The few days go by and he calls upon the aforesaid worthies, and is put off -- he calls again and again, until finally he receives insult instead of the Kingdom. Should he chance to express an opinion publicly that such treatment did not savor much of christianity, the cry of apostasy is rung in his ears, he is swept from the church, and no calumny is too base, no stigma is too black with which to blast his character. Falsehoods, that would make a Devil blush, and base as the black hearts from which they spring, are put in circulation, and from his Holy Boldness down to the meanest minion, they are scattered far and wide.

To lay open the iniquity of the place would require a volume, but the Mask of Corruption is being rapidly torn off, and they will soon exhibit to the world their naked deformity. Salt Peter, with all its preservative qualities can not save their base deed from becoming a stink in the nostrils of the world. Knowing well that they cannot live in any section of the Union, many of the most abandoned will be moving toward the West among the Indians, upon whom they make a great dependence for future success -- their doctrine of Polytheism and Polygamy will soon be fully exposed, and time will tell which is the true and which is the Bogus-Coin, and the base coin shall be nailed to the counter. Some will probably soon take the "Sabine side of the way.

Yours, &c.
      X.

Note 1: Compare this anonymous letter (in tone and content) with the similar Sept. 23, 1844 communication from Nauvoo published in the Oct. 23, 1844 issue of the Quincy Whig. Both writers call Brigham "Holy Boldness" and make use of the same phraseology to address practically the same topics -- corruption of the Twelve, decline of Nauvoo, etc. Probably both letters were penned by the same articulate writer -- a disaffected Mormon of the upper ranks of Nauvoo society.

Note 2: J. Mount -- probably Elder Joseph Mount -- in the next issue of this newspaper guesses the nameless correspondent desires "to bring a people with whom he has been associated, into disrespect with the public." This may indicate that writer "X" was a Rigdonite or some other former member who was facing excommunication for not supporting "The Twelve."

                                                 Ft. Madison, Oct. 21, 1844.
Mr. Editor: I noticed a communication in your paper, purporting to be from a correspondent in Nauvoo. I have often regretted that editors would let communications have a place in their papers to the prejudice of individuals or communities without giving such, the privilege to reply and vindicate themselves from the aspersion that may be cast upon them; but according to the true spirit of Democracy, you have divested yourself of such principles or intoleration, and left your columns open to free discussion.

I shall avail myself of the opportunity to make a few remarks on your correspondent from Nauvoo.

In the first place I shall express my disapprobation at the course he has pursued; it is too much like concealing the hand that holds the deadly weapon.

I do not like the motto, "strike but conceal the hand." The object of the writer is clearly manifested, in my opinion, to every candid reader; it is no doubt to bring a people with whom he has been associated, into disrespect with the public. He writes like a disappointed aspirant; his whole communication breathes the spirit of one disappointed in some favorite scheme while he professes his object is, to enlighten yourself and the gentile world which he thinks is in darkness respecting doings in Nauvoo.

I think it would take quite a bundle of such comments to shed forth one ray of light; for similar communications have been making their appearance for the last fourteen years, concerning the Church; and our experienced traveler has just found out that yourself and the gentile world were in darkness all this time.

But in reality his object is to vent his spleen against those who have foiled him in some favorite scheme; and sacrifice a people on the altar of public opinion to gratify his unhallowed passion for revenge. Such communications are seldom worth noticing. When a man condemns himself to a mask he should be condemned as worthy of the silence of contempt . But perhaps he thinks to justify himself by throwing out hints that his personal safety would be greatly endangered by what he is pleased to call his Holy Boldness, or the Brothers of Gideon, alias the Danite band. This reminds me of the story of raw head and bloody bones to quiet unruly children, and cause them to hide their heads under their mothers apron, for fear of seeing the shapeless monster.

We frequently hear from such writers of their being hunted by Danites, and of their great acts of bravery in defending themselves, but we never knew any one hurt, therefore conclude they must be visionary beings haunting the imagination of the guilty :for it is written the wicked fleeth when no man pursueth. As it respects the men their measures, with whom your correspondent has made so free, they are before the public. To approve or disapprove of them is the prerogative of every individual, especially in a country like ours where every mans religious opinions should be held inviolate, as long as a regard and reverence is shown to the laws, and such religious opinions do not justify sedition or conspiracy.

Insinuations are no evidence of truth, but rather otherwise truth needs no cloak to hide its deformity; and sophistry only serves to veil its beauty and the man that vindicates it need not be ashamed nor afraid of aspiring demagogues.

I have been acquainted with B. Young and the majority of the twelve for more than three years, and can testify to the purity of their lives and conduct -- I can vouch for his being a man of integrity; he never betrayed a friend nor took the advantage of an enemy; they have minds too exalted to crush a reptile because he crosses their path. A friend, or an enemy, is as safe in their power, as the babe in its mothers arms

And the man that lacks wisdom would do well to take a lesson both from their precepts and example. They have been approved by the church to stand in the place which has been designated by God through his prophet and as faithful administrators they will carry on the will of the testator, in building up the Temple and Kingdom of God in all the world, and the Saints are well assured they will discharge their duty with honesty and fidelity with all men.--That some professing to be Saints, have erred, I do not pretend to deny; but let him that is without fault throw the first stone.
                           Yours, with respect.
                                   J. MOUNT.


Notes: (forthcoming)

The last Warsaw Signal has intelligence that a body of two or three hundred Mormons have formed an encampment a mile or two north of Carthage for purposes unknown although rumor assigns various reasons for the movement. Gov. Ford and the imperial guard will undoubtedly take the field in force.


Notes: (forthcoming).

Trouble is hatching up at Warsaw, growing out of indictments found against persons suspected of the murder of the Smiths -- but as yet no positive demonstration.

Notes: (forthcoming).

The Mormons at Nauvoo continue their predatory practices upon the citizens in that vicinity. The most bitter feeling exists against the whole order, giving promise of a continued ferment of all the bad passions in the whole population in that portion of the State.

Notes: (forthcoming).