FOR THE TELEGRAPH.

A  SHORT  EXTRACT.

From a speech delivered by Isaac Hendershot, Esq., in an action of trespass vi et armis, tried at the February Term of the St. Clair Circuit Court, in which Harven Green, a Mormon minister, was plaintiff and Miles Van Winkle et al., of Methodist principles, were defendants.

After the testimony in the case was heard, Mr. Hendershot, attorney for the plaintiff, rose and said:

... what is the justification offered by the defendants in this action, for so barbarously attacking and so inhumanely beating an innocent and an unoffending man?... it appears that he is guilty of the awful and dreadfully appaling crime of being a Mormon minister; for this alone have the defendants whipped him; for this alone they have so inhumanely beat my unoffending client. -- Altho', gentlemen of the jury, Mr. Green is a Mormon, altho' he is a Mormon minister, he is entitled to the same rights in community, he is entitled to the same protection by the law, he is entitled to the same impartial trial by an unprejusticed jury of his country, as a Presbyterian, a Baptist, or a Methodist...

I, gentlemen, am not advocating the cause of Mormonism, I am not prosecuting an action of trespass against the Methodist church, -- no. But I am asking a sworn jury of St. Clair county to do impartial justice to an injured citizen of the land of freedom, the land of equal rights, and this I am doing as a professional duty.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE MORMON MONEY. -- The Buffalo Journal gives us the following as a specimen of the notes issued by the Mormon Anti-Banking Company:

"A No. 1052. THE KIRTLAND SAFETY SOCIETY ANTI-BANKING Co. will pay on demand to W. Parish or bearer, Three Dollars. Kirtland, Ohio, 4th Jan., 1837.
                    J. SMITH, Treas.
                            [F]. G. WILLIAMS, Sec. P. T."

The word "bank," in the bill, is in very large type, the prefix "anti" and the affix "ing" being very small. This, we suppose, is the real Van Buren currency, and is intended to take the place of the "crags" of the monster.   Balt. Chron.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE  MORMONS.

It appears from the following article -- for which we are indebted to the last number of the Western Star, published at Liberty, Clay county, Missouri -- that serious difficulties have arisen between the people of Daviess county and the Mormons, which may probably result in a civil war; and as the latter are very determined, and receiving frequent reinforcements from other parts of the country, it seems probable that they will not be easily reduced to submission. We know little or nothing of the origin of the difference beyond what is given in the Star.

---

THE  MORMONS.

We desire in the statement we are about to make, to give a true narrative of the causes which have produced the difficulty between the Mormons and the citizens of Daviess county, as well as to give all that has occurred respecting the movement of both parties since the first difficulty took place.

At the election in Daviess county, a citizen objected to a Mormon's voting, which brought about angry words. The Mormon was struck with a club, and in return used the same weapon himself; and before the affair terminated, several on both sides were engaged, and knives freely used. No person was killed, but some cut and bruised. The excitement did not terminate with the fight. Shortly afterwards, Joe Smith, Lyman Wright, and other Mormon leaders, collected a large force in Caldwell, and went into Daviess county to protect the Mormons residing there. They went armed and equipped for war, but they say their intentions were peace, and if what we hear be true, respecting the paper which they presented to Adam Black, a justice of the peace, for his signature, a very different face has been placed upon the transaction to what Black has certified to. The paper presented by Smith to Black was to the effect, that, inasmuch as it was anticipated that difficulties would grow out of the fight at the election, between the Mormons and the citizens of Daviess, he (Black,) as a Justice of the Peace, pledged himself that he would take lawful notice of any unlawful proceedings of either party -- Smith representing to Black, that if he would sign such a paper, he would show it to his own people and to others, and that it would have an effect to prevent difficulties.

We understand that the facts elicited at the trial of Smith and Wright (who gave themselves up), and were heard before the Judge of our Civil Court last week,) completely stamped the certificate of Black, Comstock, and others, with falsehood. After the trial of Smith and Wright, it was believed that difficulties had ceased, but no so. The people of Daviess county had sent letters and messengers to other to raise men to drive all the Mormons out of Daviess, and many from other counties had gone to their aid. The Mormons seeing this, made preparations also. When, seeing the crisis at which things were arriving, the Judge of our Circuit, Hon. Austin A. King, directed Gen. D. R. Atchison to raise 1,000 men in his Division and forthwith march them into Daviess to keep the peace, and to prevent bloodshed.

Two hundred men from Clay, under the command of Brig. Gen. Doniphan, Major Lightborne, and Captains Moss, Whitington and Price, marched out on yesterday and the day before.

We are not yet apprehensive that anything serious will take place, though both parties have become much excited. Both sides are to blame, but our opinion is that the Mormons are the aggressors. Until the 4th July, we heard of no threat being made against them, in any quarters. The people had all become reconciled to let them remain where they are, and indeed were disposed to lend them a helping hand. But one Sidney Rigdon, in order to show himself off as a great man, collected them all together in the town of Far West, on the 4th July, and there delivered a speech containing the essence of, if not treason itself. This speech was not only published in the newspapers, but handbills were struck for distribution in Caldwell and Daviess counties. We have not the speech now before us, but we recollect amongst other threats, that the author said: "We will not suffer any vexatious law-suits with our people, nor will we suffer any person to come into our streets and abuse them." Now, if this is not a manifestation of a disposition to prevent the force of law, we do not know what is. -- It is also true, that when the Mormons left this county, they agreed to settle in, and confine themselves to a district of country, which has since been formed into the county of Caldwell; but they have violated that agreement, and are spreading over Daviess, Clinton, Livingston and Carroll. Such a number had settled in Daviess, that the old inhabitants were apprehensive they would be governed soon, by the Revelations of the great Prophet, Joe Smith, and hence their anxiety to rid themselves of such an incubus.

So many reports are in circulation relative to battles fought, and men on both sides being killed and captured, that it is hard to get at the truth. We are certain, however, that up to yesterday, no person had been killed. Three men from Ray county were captured by the Mormons, and some 50 guns taken. The men are in confinement, (or rather, are guarded and kept,) in the town of Far West; and it is said the people of Daviess have captured one Mormon.

Gen. Doniphan, in some remarks made to the company which went out from this county said, that the men and arms captured by the Mormons would be demanded, as also the Mormon captive in Daviess. Should the Mormons refuse to give up the men and arms, the worst consequences must follow.

We hope and believe they will not be so blinded as to refuse; but if they should, we can tell them, that "war to the knife" will be waged against them, and they will no longer be suffered to remain in the State. We rely greatly upon the standing and influence of Generals Atchison and Doniphan, as well as the other gentlemen who have gone out, to bring this matter to a peaceable termination.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE  MORMON  WAR.

We learn from the Missouri Republican of Monday, that the difficulties existing between the Mormons and the citizens of Daviess and Caldwell counties, have been satisfactorily arranged, without any loss of life, by the prudence and activity of Gen. Atchison; who easily succeeded, after learning the whole facts, in restoring peace and quiet to the county, and in dispersing all the armed forces in the neighborhood. The Mormons, it now appears, were the injured party.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE  MORMONS.

It would seem from the late Missouri papers that the difficulties between the Mormons and their neighbors are not yet finally settled. A report had reached us, that a skirmish, in which sundry lives were lost took place between the hostile parties on about the [11th?] instant; but it is probably unfounded.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE  MORMONS.

It appears by the following letter to the Editors of the Missouri Republican, that the Mormon difficulties have been settled without an appeal to arms. Whether the lately concluded treaty will be faithfully observed on both sides remains to be seen.

---

Old Jefferson, Saline county, Mo.,       
October 13, 1838.       

GENTLEMEN -- I have to inform you that the third Mormon War has ended. My informant left the volunteer camp, on Thursday morning. Peace, he says, had been concluded between the belligerent parties, a day or two previous, on the following terms: Each of the parties were to choose two individuals, (white people) to appraise their (Mormons) property in De Witt, and the people of Carroll county guaranteed payment to them, and the Mormons were then to leave De Witt forthwith, as well as Carroll county. Our informant returned on Thursday last, through the town of De Witt; and he says the Mormons were collecting their stock, and making every preparation to leave. The appraisers were on the ground viewing the property, etc. I have understood, that Col. Bell, of Glasgow, Judge Earrickson, of Howard, W. P. Dunnica, of Glasgow, and Edgar Floroy, of Keytesville, were the gentlemen chosen to appraise the property of the Mormons. A number of citizens of Saline volunteered their services on this occasion to assist their friends of Carroll to remove these Canadian vagabonds (most of whom are sick) out of our hearing as well as sight.

It perhaps may not be amiss here to mention, for the information of those whom it may concern, that the citizens of Saline are determined, at all hazards, (if they know it) not to suffer any of Jo Smith's fraternity to settle in the county, and if they should, unknown to the citizens, they will be driven out immediately. The only blood that was drawn was taken from a man's lip, from this county. Some few of the advanced guards of the Mormons, some six or eight days ago, fired on the volunteers, and one shot cut this man's lips, as he peeped from behind a tree to get a shot at the Mormon.

I am told that Capt. Hinkle's men were well armed, with good rifles, swords, and a brace of pistols, well prepared to defend themselves if attacked. Our men, besides their small arms, had one or two cannon on the ground.      In haste, very respectfully,
                             Your obedient servant.


Note: Evidently the above letter first appeared in the Oct. 22, 1838 issue of the Missouri Republican. A copy of the original publication has not yet been located for transcription.

THE  MORMONS.

It appears that the Missouri troubles are not yet over. A letter from a gentleman on board the steam-boat Astoria, dated below Jefferson City, Oct. 18, to his friend in St. Louis, published in the Missouri Republican of yesterday, states that the Mormons have devastated Daviess county, burning the seat of justice, and most of the houses, and were then marching on Richmond, with the intention of destroying it also. Two letters from military gentlemen, inserted in the Fayette Missourian of the 27th ult. confirm the above, with the addition that a company of 50 men, under Capt. Bogard, ordered out not long since for the protection of Ray county, had been cut to pieces by a Mormon detachment, nearly 400 strong, three or four only succeeding in making their escape. A mounted force of 3000 men had been called out by Gov. Boggs, with orders to rendezvous at Fayette with all practicable expedition, in order to proceed forthwith to the seat of war, and present appearances would seem to indicate that the controversy will not be brought to a close without a bloody struggle. We are unable to throw any satisfactory light, either on the origin of the difficulties, or on the causes which have led to their renewal, after having been apparently adjusted on two several occasions.


Note: The letter referred to in the above news report first appeared in the Oct. 30, 1838 issue of the Missouri Republican. A copy of its original publication in that paper has not yet been located for transcription.

THE  MORMON  WAR.

The Missouri Republican of the 8th inst. states on the authority of passengers on the steam-boat Pirate, arrived on the evening proceeding from the Missouri river, that the war with the Mormons has been brought to a close by the surrender of the whole Mormon force to the State troops commanded by Gen. Clark, who had been invested by Gov. Boggs with plenary powers to put an end to the existing difficulties either by a resort to arms, or by negotiation. It appears that the Mormons offered no resistance; and that their leaders have been detained by the commanding General to await such proceedings as may hereafter be instituted against them. The report of the total destruction of Capt. Bogard's company, noticed in our last, seems to have been greatly exaggerated, and so probably was the account given of the devastation of Daviess county; although it is certain that much property has been destroyed, and a few lives lost on both sides. The condition of the surrender are not stated.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE  MORMON  WAR.

We republish in another column, from the St. Louis Evening Gazette, a somewhat detailed account of the termination of the recent crusade against the Mormons, which, if substantially correct, indicates that in the proceedings to which those unfortunate people have been subjected, every principle of law, justice, and humanity, has been grossly outraged. -- Although it may be difficult to decide who is to blame in this matter, it is evident to all that a fearful responsibility rests somewhere; and that those who commenced the work of destruction have much to answer for. The State of Missouri owes it to her own honor to institute a rigid inquiry into the causes which have led to results as much to be deplored; and as her Legislature meet on Monday next, it is hoped that this body will promptly adopt such measures as may be necessary to the elucidation of the whole truth, and bringing the offenders, if any, to the bar of justice.

                      From the St. Louis Daily Evening Gazette.

THE  MORMON  WAR  ENDED.

The Mormon war has been terminated, by a surrender of the Mormon leaders to the troops under Gen. Atchison. This happened on Sunday, Oct. 28th. On that day, about three thousand men, being part of the army of 5,000, ordered out under Gen. Clark, comprising Gen. Atchinson's division, made their appearance, before the town of Far West, the county seat of Caldwell county, where the Mormons were entrenched. Upon their approach, the Mormons had hoisted a white flag, which was shot down by Capt. Bogard, but was immediately replaced. Gen. Atchison then sent in a message, with a view to learn their wishes and intentions, when six of the leaders avowed their willingness to surrender, in the expectation that the Mormons should be unharmed. The surrender was accepted, and the individuals put under guard. Their names are Joseph Smith, Sidney Rigdon, George Hinkle, Lyman Wight, Parley P. Pratt, and Mr. Knight. The Mormons assembled, at Far West, comprised 700 men under arms. Of this number, a small body of 150, retreated and pushed their way to the northern frontier.

The reports vary as to what happened after the surrender. In fact, our intelligence does not come down clearly to a period, later than the day of the capitulation.

On the day after, Gen. Atchison received the orders of the Governor, which have already been mentioned in this paper, as directing the expulsion or extermination of the Mormons. It is said that, shocked and disgusted with the severity of the command, he retired and went home. After that event, it is stated that several -- some accounts say 40 of the Mormons -- were put to death. One version of the statement is, that the Mormons killed, at this time, were such as had not come into Far West. We need, however, more certain and authentic information, than we now have, on this head.

Gen. Clark, with the remainder of the troops collected from the counties below Caldwell, was, on the Friday after the surrender, encamped in Ray county, and had not then reached Far West.

It is stated that, about the time of the surrender, a company of men -- 200 in number -- fell upon a body of the Mormons, in Splawn's settlement, on Shoal creek, about 20 miles from Far West. The Mormons, it is said, were 30 in number; and the story runs that all but four were put to death. Some of the names of the killed, as reported to us, are David Evans from Ohio, Jacob Fox, from Pennsylvania, Thomas M'Bride and his father, Mr. Daly, M. Merrill and his son-in-law, Mr. White, all from Ohio.

The facts about Bogard's fight are that two of his men were killed -- one outright and one died of his wounds. At the same time, four Mormons fell -- among them the Captain of their band. Bogard's company were stationed on the line of Ray county, to intercept the communication between Ray and Caldwell. They had captured 4 Mormons; and to rescue these the attack was made upon them by the Mormons. Bogard's Company is said to have been 40 in number, and the Mormons 70.

As to the Mormon ravages in Daviess County, the plundering and burning of which so much has been said -- we are informed that, before those hostile operations, the Mormons held a consultation, at which the propriety of the steps afterwards taken, was debated at large. Some of their number were averse to the plan, and nearly one third dissented from it. The reasons assigned for these measures, were alleged outrages by their enemies in Carroll and Daviess counties. According to the Mormon statement, their houses and buildings, near DeWitt, in Carroll county, had been destroyed by their enemies, and they themselves expelled from the county and afterwards pursued, on their retreat into Daviess. It was, therefore, as they allege, in retaliation for previous unprovoked outrages, that they executed their system of violence and terror in the county of Daviess. Evidently, they could not have adopted a more suicidal policy -- allowing their own statements to be wholly true.

We have no time now -- and it would take more apace than we can spare for it -- even with a knowledge of all the facts, to enter into a history of the origin and progress of this difficulty. But there is a statement in this connection, which we have heard but recently, and which we sincerely hope is not true. That statement is as follows.

About the 9th or 10th of last month, when about 80 Mormon families had been expelled from Carroll county, and driven into Daviess, a message was sent by them to the State Executive, praying for his interposition in their behalf. The reply to that message was, that already the State had been put to a great deal of expense on account of these difficulties, and that he could see no cause to interpose, thus leaving the parties to fight it out!

The disposition of the captured Mormons presents a case of great difficulty. They are generally poor -- at least they have but little money and few means besides their stock and crops to preserve them from starvation. As it is, we suspect, these means are very much abridged. The presence of several thousand troops in their vicinity must have reduced them greatly. The proposition -- so it is given out -- is to remove them from the State. Who will advance the funds, wherewith to consummate to such a measure? And where shall they be sent? Their numbers exceed five thousand, men women and children! Are these 5,000 people -- without any means and literally beggars -- to be thrust upon the charities of Illinois, Iowa, or Wisconsin?

It is said that the leaders are to be put to trial. We hope there may be a trial, and that the trial will extend to a most thorough, rigid, and impartial examination into the origin and progress of this extraordinary commotion. We hope that a searching operation will be applied to the guilty on all sides. It is only in such a way that the government and people of this State can place themselves in a just and dignified attitude before their sister governments and fellow citizens of the Union.

---

FURTHER FROM THE MORMONS. -- The account of a bloody butchery of thirty-two Mormon, on Splawn's creek, is fully confirmed. Two children were killed, we presume, by accident. Considerable plunder -- such as beds, hats, &c., were taken from the slaughtered. Not one of the assailants was killed or hurt.

About the time of the surrender, several Mormon houses were burnt in Chariton; and one Mormon who refused to leave, killed.

At Far West, after the surrender, a Mormon had his brains dashed out, by a man who accused the Mormons of burning his house in Daviess.

On Monday next, commence the sale of public lands, in Davis county.


Note: Apparently the St. Louis Gazette referred to above was published during the second week in November. No copy of the orignal publication has yet been located for transcription.

The Missouri House of Representatives have postponed until the fourth of July next the consideration of the bill from the Senate for the appointment of a joint committee to investigate the causes, and inquire into the history of the late Mormon troubles. With a rare consistency, however, they have appropriated $200,000 for the payment of the troops which plundered the Mormons, and drove them from their homes. "The offense is rank, and smells to Heaven."


Notes: (forthcoming)

JOSEPH SMITH, and the other Mormon prisoners, heretofore confined in the jail of Daviess county, Missouri, made their escape about three weeks since, while on their way to Boone county, where their trial was to have taken place. They were escorted by a party of militia; but contrived, unobserved by their guards, to raise the floor of a cabin in which they had been confined during the night, and thus gave their enemies leg-bail. We believe they have arrived at Quincy in this state.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE  MORMONS.

As a considerable number of these people have recently arrived in this State, where it is not impossible they may attempt to make a permanent settlement, any thing that relates to them, or their peculiar religious tenets, cannot be wholly uninteresting to our fellow citizens. We have therefore extracted into our first page, from an eastern paper, a singular account of the Origin of the "Book of Mormon," or "Golden Bible." which they profess to regard as a direct revelation from Heaven, but which the rest of the world generally consider as a gross imposture. -- How far Mrs. Davison's statement is entitled to implicit credence, we cannot undertake to say. Let it suffice to remark, that its authenticity is attested by a few reputable names, and that it bears at least the appearance of probability. It may nevertheless be a mere fiction; while the book of which it speaks may be worthy of more attention than those by whom it is ridiculed are willing to allow. Be this, however, as it may the experiences of all ages and countries, our own not excepted, clearly proves that there is no absurdity; either in religion, politics, or science, which may not rank some really honest and worthy individuals among its supporters and advocates; and the general knowledge that such is the fact, and that neither the light of nature, nor the influence of education and instruction, can bring all men to think alike on any subject, should teach every one to practice universal toleration, and to treat the opinions of others with courtesy and forbearance. Nothing is more certain than that, however deluded and fanatical the Mormons may be, they have an undoubted right, under the Constitution of the United States and of this State, to worship their Creator agreeably to the dictates of their own consciences, provided that, in so doing, they do not infringe on the acknowledged rights of others; and we hope that, so long as they shall conform to the laws, and discharge the ordinary duties of good citizens, their persons and property will remain unmolested.

---

ORIGIN  OF  THE  MORMON  BIBLE.

The Boston Recorder of last week contains the following singular development of the origin and history of the Mormon Bible. It accounts most satisfactorily for the existence of the book , a fact which heretofore it has been difficult to explain. It was difficult to imagine how a work, containing so many indications of being the production of a cultivated mind, should be connected with a knavery so impudent, and a superstition so gross, as that which must have characterized the founders of this pretended religious sect. The present narrative, which, independently of the attestations annexed, appears to be by no means improbable, was procured from the writer by the Rev. Mr. Stow [sic], of Holliston, who remarks that he has "had occasion to come in contact with Mormonism in its grossest forms." It was communicated by him for publication in the Recorder.


"Origin of the 'Book of Mormon,' or 'Golden Bible.'" -- As this book has excited much attention, and has been put by a certain new sect, in the place of the sacred scriptures, I deem it a duty which I owe to the public, to state what I know touching its origin. That its claims to a divine origin are wholly unfounded, needs no proof to a mind unperverted by the grossest delusions. That any sane person should rank it higher than any other merely human composition, is a matter of the greatest astonishment; yet it is received as divine by some who dwell in enlightened New England, and even by those who have sustained the character of devoted Christians. Learning recently that Mormonism had found its way into a church in Massachusetts, and has impregnated some of its members with its gross delusions, so that excommunication has become necessary, I am determined to delay no longer doing what I can to strip the mask from this monster of sin, and to lay open this pit of abominations.

Rev. Solomon Spaulding, to whom I was united in marriage in early life, was a graduate of Dartmouth College, and was distinguished for a lively imagination and a great fondness for history. At the time of our marriage, he resided in Cherry Valley, N. Y. From this place we removed to New Salem, Ashtabula county, Ohio; sometimes called Conneaut, as it is situated upon Conneaut creek. Shortly after our removal to this place, his health sunk, and he was laid aside from active labors. In the town of New Salem, there are numerous mounds and forts, supposed by many to be the dilapidated dwellings and fortifications of a race now extinct. These ancient relics arrest the attention of the new settlers, and become objects of research for the curious. Numerous implements were found, and other articles evincing great skill in the arts. Mr. Spaulding being an educated man, and passionately fond of history, took a lively interest in these developments of antiquity; and in order to beguile the hours of retirement and furnish employment for his lively imagination, he conceived the idea of giving an historical sketch of this long lost race. Their extreme antiquity of course would lead him to write in the most ancient style, and as the Old Testament is the most ancient book in the world, he imitated its style as nearly as possible. His sole object in writing this historical romance was to amuse himself and his neighbors. This was about the year 1812. Hull's surrender at Detroit, occurred near the same time, and I recollect the date well from that circumstance. As he progressed in his narrative, the neighbors would come in from time to time to hear portions read, and a great interest in the work was excited among them. It claimed to have been written by one of the lost nation, and to have been recovered from the earth, and, assumed the title of "Manuscript Found." The neighbors would often inquire how Mr. S. progressed in decyphering the manuscript, and when he had sufficient portion prepared he would inform them, and they would assemble to hear it read. He was enabled, from his acquaintance with the classics and ancient history, to introduce many singular names, which were particularly noticed by the people, and could be easily recognized by them. Mr. Solomon Spaulding had a brother, Mr. John Spaulding, residing in the place at the time, who was perfectly familiar with this work and repeatedly heard the whole of it read.

From New Salem, we removed to Pittsburgh, Pa. Here Mr. S. found an acquaintance and friend, in the person of Mr. Patterson, an editor of a newspaper. He exhibited his manuscript to Mr. P. who was very much pleased with it, and borrowed it for perusal. He retained it a long time, and informed Mr. S. that if he would make out a title page and preface, he would publish it and it might be a source of profit. This Mr. S. refused to do, for reasons which I cannot now state. Sidney Rigdon, (one of the leaders and founders of the sect,) who has figured so largely in the history of the Mormons, was at this time connected with the printing office of Mr. Patterson, as is well known in that region, and as Rigdon himself has frequently stated. Here he had ample opportunity to become acquainted with Mr. Spaulding's manuscript, and copy it if he chose. It was a matter of notoriety and interest to all connected with the printing establishment. At length the manuscript was returned to its author, and soon after we removed to Amity, Washington county, Pa., where Mr. S. deceased in 1816. The manuscript then fell into my hands, and was carefully preserved. It has frequently been examined by my daughter, Mrs. McKenstry, of Monson, Mass., with whom I now reside, and by other friends. After the "Book of Mormon" came out, a copy of it was taken to New Salem, the place of Mr. Spaulding's residence, and the place where the "Manuscript Found" was written. A woman preacher appointed a meeting there, and in the meeting read and repeated copious extracts from the "Book of Mormon." The historical part was immediately recognized by all the older inhabitants, as the identical work of Mr. S., in which they had been so deeply interested years before. Mr. John Spaulding was present, who is an eminently pious man, and recognized perfectly the work of his brother. He was amazed and afflicted, that it should have been perverted to so wicked a purpose. His grief found vent in a flood of tears, and he arose on the spot, and expressed to the meeting his deep sorrow and regret, that the writings of his sainted brother should be used for a purpose so vile and shocking. -- The excitement in New Salem became so great, that the inhabitants had a meeting and deputed Dr. Philastus Hurlbut, one of their number, to repair to this place and to obtain from me the original manuscript of Mr. Spaulding, for the purpose of comparing it with the Mormon Bible, to satisfy their own minds and to prevent their friends from embracing an error so delusive. This was in the year 1834. Dr. Hurlbut brought with him an introduction and request for the manuscript, signed by Messrs. Henry Lake, Aaron Wright, and others, with all of whom I was acquainted, as they were my neighbors when I resided in New Salem.

I am sure that nothing could grieve my husband more, were he living, than the use which have been made of his work. The air of antiquity which was thrown about the composition, doubtless suggested the idea of converting it to the purposes of delusion. Thus an historical romance, with the addition of a few pious expressions and extracts from the sacred scriptures, has been construed into a new Bible, and palmed off upon a company of poor deluded fanatics, as divine. -- I have given the previous brief narration, that this work of deep deception and wickedness may be searched to the foundation, and its author exposed to the contempt and execration he so justly deserves.

MATILDA DAVISON.            

Rev. Solomon Spaulding was the first husband of the narrator of the above history. Since his decease, she has been married to a second husband by the name of Davison. She is now residing in this place; is a woman of irreproachable character, and an humble Christian, and her testimony is worthy of implicit confidence.            A. ELY, D. D.,
                   Pastor Cong. Church in Monson.
                            D. R. AUSTIN,
                   Principal of Monson Academy.

            Monson, Mass., April 1st, 1839.


Note: The Editor of the Telegraph says: "How far Mrs. Davison's statement is entitled to implicit credence, we cannot undertake to say." Given this paper's growing aversion to Mormonism in Illinois, it is remarkable that nobody on its staff ever took the time to contact Mr. Spalding's widow (or some of her relatives or associates) in an attempt to gain more information on this subject. At least, if anybody did so, no record of such a correspondence was ever published in the 1839 newspapers.

MORE  ABOUT  THE  MORMON  BIBLE.

We inserted in our last number a communication from Mrs. Matilda Davison to the Editor of the Boston Recorder, the object of which was to show, by a statement of certain facts, attested by herself and a few other persons, that the principal part of the celebrated "Book of Mormon" or "Golden Bible," was originally written by her first husband, the late Rev. Solomon Spalding, about twenty-six years ago, when compelled by indisposition to suspend his labors as a preacher of the gospel; and that, consequently, its claim to be a direct revelation from Heaven is a gross imposture. A subscriber has since put into our hands a copy of the New York Evangelist of February 16, containing an extract from a work entitled "Mormonism Unveiled." recently published by G. [sic] D. Howe, of Painesville, Ohio, which strongly corroborates Mrs. Davison's statement. -- JOHN SPALDING, the deceased Clergyman's brother, and MARTHA his wife, of Crawford county, Pa.; JOHN N. MILLER, of Springfield, Pa.; HENRY LAKE, AARON WRIGHT, and OLIVER SMITH, of Conneaut, Ohio; severally declare that, having examined the "Book of Mormon," they are persuaded that the historical parts of it are taken chiefly, if not wholly, from the "Manuscript Found" of the late Rev. Mr. SPALDING, as read to them, by the latter in his life-time; and that the names of the principal persons mentioned in the said work, as well as the most striking incidents recorded therein, have been brought fresh to their recollection by the perusal of the "Golden Bible." -- We should have copied the entire extract, had not the space allotted to such matters be otherwise appropriated before it was pointed out to us.


Note: No copy of the New York Evangelist of Feb. 16, 1839 has yet been located for confirmation of the above report.

WEEKLY  COMPEND.

The last Quincy Whig contains a communication signed by "S. RIGDON," one of the Mormon leaders, in which the truth of the statement recently made by Mrs. Matilda Davidson, concerning the origin of "the Book of Mormon," which appeared in our paper of the 25th ult., is positively denied, and the entire article said to be a tissue of "lies" from beginning to end. We should republish this production at length, in order to let our readers hear both sides, did not its extreme vulgarity forbid its insertion.


Note: The Alton Telegraph seems to have been about the only western newspaper that offered any comments regarding Sidney Rigdon's notorious letter to the editors of the Quincy Whig. The Whig provided some follow-up letters and reports, but the Telegraph took no further interest in the matter -- leaving Rigdon's denial unrefuted.

TIMES  AND  SEASONS.

We have received the first number of a new publication bearing the above title, just commenced in the town of Commerce, Hancock county, by E. Robinson and D. C. Smith. It is issued in monthly numbers, each containing sixteen pages of matter, at the rate of One Dollar per annum, payable in advance; and is designed to furnish general information in relation to the Mormons, or "Latter-day Saints;" together with "a history of the persecutions which they, as a people, received in Missouri, by orders of the Executive of that State." The number before us is decently printed; and its contents are by no means devoid of interest. We are not sufficiently acquainted with the events to which it refers to be able to say any thing either for or against the general accuracy of its statements.


Notes: (forthcoming)

           From the Alexandria Gazette

A GLANCE AT THE  MORMONS.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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


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

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

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

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

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

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

Yes, replied the prophet, and the translations hung up with them.

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

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

---

EMIGRATION.

"The New York Packet Ship North America, Capt. Lowber, sailed on Tuesday week with 19 cabin passengers and 200 in the steerage. The whole of the steerage passengers belong to the sect called "Latter Day Saints," and are bound for Quincy, in the State of Illinois, on the borders of the Mississippi, where a settlement has been provided for them by one of their sect, who has purchased a large tract of land in Illinois. We understand that upwards of 2000 are in treaty to embark early next spring for the same locality. A great portion of those who sailed in the North America are members of the Total Abstinence Society, and are from Leicestershire and Herefordshire. They were shipped by the respectable [firm] of Fitzhugh & Grimshaw, of this town.
                Liverpool Chronicle.


Note 1: The full article relating this visitor from Montrose's conversation with Joseph Smith, etc. was also published in the Oct. 17, 1840 issue of the Quincy Whig. Probably the Whig also copied the piece from the Alexandria Gazette.

Note 2: Rev. Henry Caswall offers a similar report in his 1842 book, The City of the Mormons, pp. 22-23: "The storekeeper... drew forth a number of glazed slides, like picture frames, containing sheets of papyrus, with Egyptian inscriptions and hieroglyphics. These had been unrolled from four mummies, which the prophet purchased at a cost of twenty-four hundred dollars... Mr. Smith had discovered that these sheets contained the writings of Abraham, written with his own hand while in Egypt. Pointing to the figure of a man lying on a table, he said, 'that is the picture of Abraham on the point of being sacrificed. That man standing by him with a drawn knife is an idolatrous priest of the Egyptians" (cf. Caswall's "The Mormons," in The Visitor or Monthly Instructor, 1842, p. 406; see also Charlotte Haven's Feb. 19, 1843 letter in the Overland Monthly of Dec. 1880; and Josiah Quincy's recollections of a visit to Nauvoo: "Joseph Smith at Nauvoo." in his 1883 book, Figures of the Past, pp. 376-400).

==> In one of the late numbers of the Warsaw Signal, we see it stated that Dr. Bennett has been removed by the Governor from the office of Quarter Master General. Such is not the fact. Bennett was elected Major General of the "Nauvoo Legion." which. as a matter of course, vacated his office of Quarter Master General, and the Governor filled the vacancy this occasioned by the appointment of W. G. Flood, of Quincy.

All that surprised us was, that the appointment was not conferred by the Executive upon either Smith or Rigdon, as the Mormons seem to have been subjects of peculiar favor both with Gov. Carlin and Judge Douglass, who, for the last twelve months, has been courting and flattering them solely for the purpose of securing their political influence. Time will disclose whether they will succeed in their endeavor.

---

==> Judge Douglass has decided against the validity of the writ upon which Joe Smith, the Mormon Prophet, was arrested, with a view of having him surrendered to the authorities of Missouri. The Governor has, however, caused the Secretary of State to issue a new process, and to have it placed in the proper officer's hands for execution.


Notes: (forthcoming)

GOV.  DUNCAN.

Addressed the people of this county on the 4th inst at Edwardsville. He was listened to by one of the largest audiences we have ever seen assembled on a similar occasion, since our residence in the State; and the attention and manifest gratification with which he was listened to, furnished the strongest evidence that the various positions he assumed met with the cordial co-operation of his hearers.

Much of his time was taken up in refuting the base and groveling charges preferred against him by the State Register, of being the founder of both the Internal Improvement and State Bank systems. And the evidence he furnished, forced from the most prejudiced of his political opponents the reluctant confession, that he had triumphantly vindicated himself, and shown the falsity of the charges.

His views in regard to the dangerous and alarming powers which were granted to the Mormons, in various charters passed at the last session of our Legislature, and the firm and decided stand he assumed against making them a PRIVILEGED SECT over all other religious denominations and classes of our citizens, met with universal approbation by all who listened to him. Gov. Duncan declared he was for extending to them the same privileges, and none other, that our citizens in common enjoyed under the provisions of the constitution and laws. But all extraordinary anti-republican and arbitrary powers, which the corruption of a Legislature granted them solely for the purpose of obtaining their political support, he unhesitatingly proclaimed he was for taking from them. The Governor referred to one of the ordinances of their city, which provided that if any person spoke lightly of, or doubted, their religion, upon conviction thereof, the offender was liable to a fine of five hundred dollars and six months imprisonment. This disgraceful attempt to form, in a republican government, an established religion by legal enactment, created throughout the audience a great sensation, and opened their eyes to the rapid strides that were being made in their very midst towards an arbitrary and monarchial form of government.

He next referred to a correspondence in the Times and Seasons, published at Nauvoo, between Dr. C. V. Dyer, of Chicago, a distinguished Loco-foco, and Joe Smith and Gen. Bennett, the prophet and the military leader of the Mormons. That correspondence divulges the fact, that the Mormons, at the solicitation of Dr. Dyer. (who is an Abolitionist) are prepared to act with them. -- And Gen. Bennett evinces his willingness at any moment to march against the Penitentiary in Missouri with his armed force, established under the auspices, (as Joe Smith says,) of Mr. Snyder and Judge Douglass, and release the three Quincy Abolitionists now in confinement there. This correspondence we shall publish at length in a few days, that every man may judge of its alarming tendencies for himself.

It struck us with a good deal of astonishment that Joe Smith and Gen. Bennett should thus publicly avow their abolition principles in the very face of the proclamation of the prophet, as the military leader of the Mormons, to all his followers, to vote for Mr. Snyder for Governor, WHO IS HIMSELF ONE OF THE LARGEST SLAVE HOLDERS IN THE STATE. To us it displayed an inconsistency irreconcilable with common honesty.


Notes: (forthcoming)

EX-GOVERNOR  BOGGS.

Of the State of Missouri, was most inhonorably shot a few days since, while sitting at his own fireside in Independence. He received three wounds in the head, the effect of which will, in all probability, result in the loss of his life. No cause is assigned for this fiendish act; nor, as we learn, have any well grounded suspicions been fixed upon any person as the perpetrator of the deed.

A reward -- in our opinion paltry in the extreme -- has been offered for the arrest of the offender; and we fondly trust that he will yet be discovered, apprehended, and convicted. Crime of every grade has become so prevalent throughout the land, that no person now seems to be secure in the enjoyment of either life, property, or reputation. The only corrective is a faithful and rigid administration of the laws.


Notes: (forthcoming)

THE  STATE  REGISTER  AND  THE  MORMONS.

The above paper of the 27th ult., expresses for the interests of the Mormons, and apparent horror at the idea that Gov. Duncan should -- as every patriot and honest man of all parties would -- take strong grounds in his speeches to the people against the interference of Joe Smith, as the prophet of a religious sect, and the military leader of a church, in our elections in both those capacities. That such interference is not only wrong, but at war with the principles of our Government, we challenge the State Register to deny; and that it should be frowned down by all honest men regardless of party, no sensible person will controvert.

All that Gov. Duncan has done, has been to enter his protest against any sect of Christians, at the bidding of a leader, whom, by their religious tenets, they are bound to obey, or such religious capacity, arraying themselves against the one or the other of the great contending parties of this country. In all their constitutional rights, he would not only go as far, but farther, than those who now profess so much friendship for the Mormons -- to protect them. Beyond that, he ought not, and from our knowledge of him, are confident he will not go. And sooner than have him truckle to the threats, or yield to the promises, of Joe Smith, thereby securing the votes of the Mormons in a body, we should far prefer seeing Gov. Duncan overwhelmed with defeat. If he is elected, it must be upon principle, not as the fawning sycophant of any party or religious sect.

If the Mormons, from principle, are Van Buren men. (and we should think they ought to be, from the kind treatment they received from Tom Benton and Van Buren when at Washington, asking redress for the persecutions they met with in democratic Missouri) let them vote for the Van Buren nominees upon that ground. But this issuing a proclamation, on the part of Joe Smith, as "Lieutenant General" of the Nauvoo Legion, commanding his followers to vote for this or that candidate, is too bold a stride towards despotism ever to be long countenanced by a free and intelligent people. In this country, the inestimable privilege is guarantied to every citizen by the Constitution, of exercising the right of suffrage according to the dictates of his conscience, untrammeled from the control of any priest, prophet, or military leader. And it ill becomes Joe Smith -- professing obedience to our laws, and asking their protection, not only towards himself but his people -- in direct violation of that sacred instrument which guaranties to him and them that protection -- to issue, both in his spiritual and military capacity, an edict COMMANDING his followers to vote as HE shall direct.

If the Mormons would take the least pains to inquire, they would find that when they fled from the persecutions of Missouri, and sought refuge within the borders of Illinois, those whom they are now seeking to overpower by numbers were the first to extend them protection, and an assurance that in all their legal and constitutional rights they should be protected. While, on the other hand, those in whose favor this celebrated military edict of Joe Smith was issued, were unsparing in their denunciations of the Mormons as a body. In support of this latter assertion, we have only to refer the Mormons, as well as the Van Buren men, to an article in the ILLINOIS DEMOCRAT, then published at Jacksonville, and controlled by the leading Van Buren men of the State, under date of Nov. 21st 1840. In the article headed "The Presidency," and accounting for the defeat of Mr. Van Buren, the following language is used:

"All the combined factions and fragments and sects of religion, morals, and politics, have been arrayed against us. The Abolitionists falsely pretended that they were neutral between the great contending parties. -- Their strength was a reserved force, which fought in ambush under the standard of Federalism. ==>THE DELUDED AND INFATUATED MORMONS WERE MUSTERED LIKE SO MANY SOLDIERS, BY THAT INFAMOUS IMPOSTOR, JOE SMITH." <==

Such was the opinion and estimation entertained openly, and now covertly, by the leading Van Buren papers of this State, towards the Mormons, whose candidates their prophet has commanded to support in the approaching election. "Deluded and infatuated" indeed, will they prove, if they warm into existence a viper that will at the first opportunity sting them to death.

---

GOV. DUNCAN.

Arrived here on Sunday evening, and on Monday met a number of the citizens of Coles, and delivered an address, explanatory of his past connection with the affairs of State. His arrival was not expected nor known to many who would have been happy to have seen and heard him; but his policy with regard to State interest is very well known and appreciated by all in this region. We regret, however, that a personal acquaintance was not made with him by every voter in Coles county; Gov. Duncan carries his own letter of recommendation in his open and prepossessing countenance. His manner and deportment is unassuming, and fails not to win the confidence of every one at first sight; he made and confirmed many friends, who will be proud to cast a vote for him at the next August election.

All who listened to the clear and lucid explanation which the Gov. made in his address were satisfied of the honesty and wisdom of his administration of State affairs when he was our Governor. After the Gov. had concluded his remarks, a person from the audience propounded several questions to him with regard to his connections with the internal improvements of the State, and particularly as respected his canal policy. The Gov. answered the questions with as much frankness and ease that we were suspicious he had some one employed to put such questions as he had prepared answers beforehand. But we were agreeably surprised when we found ourselves mistaken. The author of the questions was a Mormon Missionary, Judge Pierson, who has been making a tour of the Wabash counties recently. The Judge found that truth and honesty of purpose could not be entangled by double meaning phrases. -- The Gov. should by all means induce the Judge to follow him; his open western phiz and demeanor compared with Judge Pierson's metaphysical appearance, contrasts infinitely to his advantage. -- Charleston Courier.


Notes: (forthcoming)

FREEDOM OF THE CITY.

Resolved by the city council of the city of Nauvoo, That the freedom of the city be, and the same is hereby conferred on Col. John Wentworth, Editor of the Chicago Democrat; and he is hereby declared a free citizen of the city Nauvoo.
  Passage, April 22nd. A. D. 1842.
                          JOHN C. BENNETT, Mayor.
  James Sloan, Recorder.

It is with the greatest pleasure that we accept 'the freedom' above granted us, and, in reciprocity, we would assure our dearly beloved sisters of the city of Nauvoo that we are a single man of high standing and brilliant prospects, and that ere long, we intend to take the liberties above bestowed upon us, and make ourselves at home with the prettiest, most intelligent and most virtuous among them; and, furthermore, we assure our dearly beloved brethren Smith, Bennett, Rigdon and others, that soon they shall see 'Saul among the prophets,' for we are bound to visit Nauvoo at the next 'Feast of the Tabernacle,' and address the people in unknown tongues. Selah sis ni Melchisidec. Refrap en resu Paul nus tisio surl ax Cephas. Nebuchadnezzer mole utriu axtriorer, Dow, jr. Mormon 191 Those to whom it is given to understand the above, can reply upon it. The times are portentous, and what is done must be done quickly.
                    Chicago Democrat.

---

==> The Mormons have nominated a full ticket for county officers of their own religious denomination, in the county of Hancock. They intend either to rule or ruin.


Notes: (forthcoming)

JUDGE  FORD.

The new Mormon candidate for Governor, was one of the most virulent Adams men ever in the State of Illinois. Since his conversion to Locofocoism and Mormonism, his political course has been rather a retired one; not for the want of ambition, but through a conspicousness of shame in attempting to laud to any great extent those against whom, when an Adams man, he said so many bitter things.

He is a resident of the extreme northern section of the State, closely and intimately identified with all its sectional interests, and directly at war with the interest of the south. He is one of the most Ultra Canal Men the north could have selected; and should he be chosen, he will go to any extent, and adopt any means, no matter how ruinous in its consequences, to carry on that work at the cost and expense of the State.

As one of the political Judges elected for the purpose of destroying the institutions of the State, and to decide against the validity of the sales of the sixteen sections to relieve certain speculators in the north, who had purchased portions of the said sections at [--------ous] rates during the speculating mania, he is alone conspicuous; and if he has not carried out the evil designs of his creature[s] in conjunction with his four associates, brought into judicial existence at the same time, it is only because the opportunity has not been afforded him.

He has been selected by the politicians and demagogues with an eye single to his utter [------------] to their will, and with the certainty that, if he is elected, his whole course will be to benefit The Party at the sacrifice of the State and her interests. As a statesman, he is unknown; and the most reckless of his supporters will scarcely risk their reputation in asserting that he possesses the slightest qualifications to constitute him one. Between him and Gov. Duncan, we are per[f]ectly willing the unbiased judgments of the people of this State should decide.

THE  CAT  OUT  OF  THE  BAG!!

In an article which we publish to-day, taken from a recent number of the Sangamo Journal, headed "THE MORMONS," will be found a letter from Jefferson county in this State, in which it is admitted by Mr. Hicks, the Van Buren member of the Legislature from that county, that ==> "he was opposed to all incorporations; that he had examined those granted the Mormons, and expressed his determination to oppose them; but was persuaded by his democratic friends not to do so, who assured him that if they could get those bills passed, the Mormons would vote for them, and they could carry the State." <==

Freemen of Illinois! Thus, by the confession of a Van Buren man, have your rights and privileges been bartered away by a corrupt Legislature to a religious despotism! -- Are you prepared to submit to it? Are you willing that Mormonism shall become the established religion of your State, established at the point of the bayonet, if no milder form will accomplish it! Or do you prefer, according to the provisions of your glorious Constitution, to worship God according to the dictates of your own conscience? If the latter, beware! how you elevate to power those who are courting the support of the Mormons as a church. Again, we say, beware!

From the "Wasp" -- a Mormon newspaper published at Nauvoo.

WE  WERE  NOT  THE  AGGRESSORS.

After our property had been wrestled from us and the declaration gone forth that we were forthwith to leave the country, we were anxious, as far as possible to recover what had been lost, and had been by treachery and fraud so unexpectedly deprived of. Accordingly, we went peaceable into the settlements to recover our property; but no sooner did we make known our business than we were insulted, decided and calumniated by every epithet and indignity that their degenerated intellects were able to invent. Some were whipped, tarred, feathered and tortured with every cruelty possible. Daily aggressions were now made upon our homes, our firesides; property was clandestinely taken from us in the silent watches of the night, and at the noon-day hour; our families insulted, our hearths desecrated, and our lives periled. This state of things existing, we were again compelled to petition for assistance. We applied to General Atchison, who immediately came to our assistance with a strong military force. He marched to Gallatin, where his troops were stationed several days. At their appearance in the county the mob immediately dispersed, avowing their intention to be peaceable and orderly. But this determination proved to be remarkably short lived. No sooner had General Atchison returned to Clay and disbanded his troops, than plunder, rapine, pillage, and the work of devastation was resumed with renewed vigor, and determination. He was again applied to for assistance. At his re-appearance in the county the mob dispersed as before and again declared their intentions to keep the peace. Gen. Atchison saw their treachery and how futile and vain were his efforts to restore peace; he knew that were he to interfere too strenuously in the affair, that it would plunge the whole state into difficulty, and commotion, and with these considerations he withdrew his troops and left us to defend ourselves against our assailants. Again the mob renewed their aggressions; their force became more formidable and oppressive; daily accessions were made to their numbers and the work of barbarity commenced with redoubled energy. A certain individual by the name of Gilliam, then a representative from the Platt county in the Legislature of his State, backed by his wholly motly crew of "Black spirits and white.
Blue spirits and grey." now made his appearance upon the stage of action. To follow him through all his acts of plunder, barbarity and cruelty, would be a task too arduous and intricate to be undertaken. They are traced indelibly, with an impress that defies the revolution of time to efface, upon the tablet of many a widowed heart, and upon the memory of many a helpless and unprotected orphan, and to sufficeth us to know that justice, stern and inflexible, will sooner or later overtake him. He was indeed an able competition for the very amiable, patriotic and pious Methodist priest Bogard, who is another demon from the dark and benighted regions of Hades sent to figure upon the earth in human shape and carry on the work of desolation among the children of men. The midnight slumbers of the saints were repeatedly broken by the hostile and appalling yells of these lawless rabbles, and from the quietude of their peaceful homes, they were forced to fly to arms that they might protect their families from death, their homes from plunder, and their hearths from desecration.

---

THE  MORMON  CANDIDATE  FOR  GOVERNOR.

Judge Breese has undergone the bow-string. The State Printer and Secretary of State, as emissaries of the junto here, returned on Monday from a flying visit to his honor. It is understood that they proposed to the judge, that if he would decline being a candidate for Governor, he should be made U. S. Senator in place of Judge Young. So many promises had been made to him, that he hesitated; -- on which he was informed that in case of contumacy they were commissioned to apply the bow-string. Breese then agreed to submit quietly, only asking that the question -- who shall be the candidate? -- should be submitted to a meeting of the party friends now on a visit to Springfield, -- so that he could yield with honor. The worthy emissaries gave each other a knowing wink, and agreed to the proposition. A letter was written, which will be published, probably in the Register of this week, and the string was then applied. On returning to this city, the emissaries and other members of the junto, put the democracy into proper training, held the meeting as agreed, and secured the nomination of Judge Ford.

We have no doubt that "Esq. Warren," who is the same person named in the proclamation of the Lieutenant General, delivered to the Loco Foco meeting last night, the mandates of the said Lieutenant General Joe Smith, in favor of Judge Ford, as he was present, and it is said the nomination was unanimous. We heard a rumor on Tuesday that Smith and Rigdon were both in this city, but it may not be so; if the rumor be true, they were doubtless in the meeting, and spoke for themselves. -- Sang. Journal.

---

   From the Vandalia (Illinois) Standard.

THE  MORMONS.

HORRID DEED. -- The late Governor of Missouri, L. W. Boggs, was mortally wounded by some unknown person, on the night of the 6th inst., while seated in his house at Independence. The St. Louis papers give the following particulars:

"Gov. Boggs was shot by some villain on Friday the 6th. in the evening, whilst sitting in a room in his own house in Independence. His son, a boy, hearing a report, ran into the room, found the Gov. sitting in a chair, with his jaw fallen down, and his head leaning back; on discovering the injury done his father, he gave the alarm. Foot tracks were found in the garden below the window, and a pistol picked up supposed to have been overloaded, and thrown from the hand of the scoundrel who had fired it.

"Three buck shot, of heavy lead, took effect; one going through his mouth -- one into the brain, and another in or probably near the brain -- all going in, in the back part of the next or head. The Governor was still alive on the morning of the 7th, but no hope of his recovery by his friends, and but slight hopes from the physicians."

The following paragraph in reference to the murder of this gentleman, we copy from the Missouri Reporter of the 14th. If the charge preferred against Joe Smith be true, he deserves to suffer the utmost penalty of the law, but as the Missourians are known to have a mortal hatred for him and his followers it may be charitable perhaps, to suppose him innocent of the fatal charge, until it can be established by something more substantial than mere rumor:

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

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    From the Sangamo Journal.

Since the attempt upon the life of Gov. Boggs, it has been feared that some emissaries might visit Nauvoo for the purpose of retaliating upon the Mormon Prophet: and for that reason, it was rumored, a guard is now provided for the city. The official notices of the establishment of this guard, are given in the "Wasp." which are here copied:

              "Mayor General's Office, Nauvoo Legion,
              City of Nauvoo, Ill., May 20th, 1842.

To the citizens of the City of Nauvoo:

I have this day received an order from Gen. Joseph Smith, Mayor of said city, to detail a regular night watch for the city which I have executed by selecting, and placing on duty, the following named persons: to wit: D. B. Huntington, W. D. Huntington, L. N. Scovil, C. Allen, A. P. Rockwood, N. Rogers, S. Roundy, and J. Arnold, who will hereafter be obeyed and respected, as such, until further orders.

              John C. Bennett,
              Major General.
              "Mayor's Office, City of Nauvoo,
              May 20th, A. D. 1842


To the City Watch:
You are hereby directed to appear at my office, daily, at 6 o'clock, P. M., to receive orders; and at 6 o'clock A. M., to make reports; until regularly disbanded by the Mayor General of the Legion, by my order.
              Joseph Smith, Mayor.


From these official notices, it would appear that the Mormons have a government entirely of their own -- an army of their own, portions of which are detached on the requisition of the Mayor of Nauvoo, when he pleases to make a requisition upon the commanding officer for their services. This is, indeed, a curious state of things. A Christian sect in Illinois keeping up a military organization for their own particular purposes! What would be thought if the Baptists, Methodists, Presbyterians, or Episcopalians of this State had separate military organizations; and that their respective legions of troops were in constant practice of military discipline? These Mormon troops are said now to amount to 2,000 men, and to be as well drilled as regular soldiers.

The laws of incorporation under which the Mormons are now enjoying exclusive privileges, have given rise, latterly, to some public discussions. We have now before us a communication from Mount Vernon, Jefferson county, in this State, which possesses much interest. It appears, from this communication, that the laws in question were passed by our late Locofoco Legislature, -- a Legislature, by the bye which professed an utter aversion to monopolies in the shape of incorporations -- for political purposes; that they were passed to secure the Mormon vote. There can now be no doubt of the fact, that the Proclamation issued by Lieut. Gen. Smith, to his people, requiring them to vote for Messrs. Snyder and Moore, was the result of the passage of these laws by the Locofoco Legislature.

In copying the communication alluded to we cannot but express the opinion, which will become general, that Mr. Hicks, in disclosing the truth, has eminently secured for himself the character of an honest man -- too honest to conceal facts of so much importance to the welfare of community, although such concealment might benefit his party. We call upon the public to read and attentively consider their communication:

              "Mount Vernon, May 14, 1842.
To the Editor of the Journal:
Gov. Duncan made us a speech yesterday, and attacked the Van Buren members of the Legislature for granting the Mormon Corporations for the purpose of securing their votes; and exposed the dangerous and extraordinary powers which the Legislature conferred upon them. His speech called out our Senator and Representative, both of whom made speeches to vindicate their own character in relation to this nefarious plot. Col. Johnston acknowledged that he had voted for all the bills, and excused himself because they had been introduced by a Representative from Hancock county, who, he said although elected by the Mormons, was an honorable high-minded Whig; yet the Colonel omitted to mention that the bills were managed after their introduction exclusively by the leaders of the Van Buren party. But Maj. Hicks' excuse confirms the whole plot. He said that he was opposed to all incorporations; that he had examined those granted the Mormons, before they passed, and expressed his determination to oppose them; but was persuaded, by his Democratic friends not to do so -- who assured him that if they could get those bills passed, the Mormons would vote for them, and they would then carry the elections in the State; and that he was also induced to give up his opposition to them because he had differed with his party on some other party measures, about which his friends had complained, and he did not wish to differ from them when he could possibly help it. The facts stated in these speeches show that the Legislature were corruptly influenced to grant the Mormons all the powers they demanded."

Having in this article alluded to the Proclamation of Lieut. Gen. Smith. and its obvious connection with the party movement of passing the acts of incorporation for the benefit of the Mormons, we here give a copy of that Proclamation. If the military order of the Lieutenant General is not obeyed, we do not know what a military punishment would follow. Indeed, that would be unnecessary; for his spiritual punishments are much more regarded by his followers, than any military punishment could possibly be.

"STATE  GUBERNATORIAL  CONVENTION.
City of Nauvoo, Ill., Dec. 20, 184[1].

To my friends in Illinois:

The Gubernatorial Convention of the State of Illinois, have nominated Col, Adam W. Snyder for GOVERNOR, and Col, John Moore for LIEUT. GOVERNOR of the State of Illinois -- election to take place in August next. Col. Moore, like Judge Douglass, and Esq. Warren, was an intimate friend of Gen. Bennett long before that gentleman became a member of our community; and Gen. Bennett informs us that no men were more efficient in assisting him to procure our great chartered privileges, than were Col. Snyder and Col. Moore. They are sterling men, and friends of equal rights -- opposed to the oppressor's grasp and the tyrant's rod. With such men at the head of our State Government we have nothing to fear.

*    *    *    *    *    *

Douglass is a master spirit, and his friends and our friends; we are willing to cast our banners on the air, and fight by his side in the cause of humanity and equal rights -- the cause of liberty and the law. Snyder, and Moore, are his friends -- they are ours. These men are free from the prejudices and superstitions of the age; and such men we love, and such men will ever receive our support, be their political predilections what they ma.; Snyder and Moore are known to be our friends; their friendship is vouched for by those whom we have tried. We will never be justly charged with the sin of ingratitude -- they have served us, and we will serve them.
               JOSEPH SMITH.
           Lieut. Gen. of the Nauvoo Legion.

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MURDER, "A NOBLE DEED."

Joe Smith thus notices the attempted murder of Gov. Boggs, in the Nauvoo 'Wasp.' of May 28: --

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


The same paper, commenting upon the attempted MURDER of Gov. Boggs, says:

"The most wonderful development is, that 'it appears Jo Smith has made several threats against Missouri.' The public can hardly be gulled by such foolish libels. Boggs is undoubtedly killed, according to report, but who did the NOBLE DEED remains to be found out."

We submit these extracts without comment: -- Sang. Jour.

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GOV. DUNCAN delivered an address to our citizens on Tuesday afternoon. His speech mainly, was a calm and candid exposition of his course while Governor of this Senate, and of the corrupt coalition formed between the leaders of the Loco-foco party and Joe Smith, for the votes of the Mormons. For many of the facts embraced in the article under our editorial head, we are indebted to this speech. He was followed, in reply by Calvin A. Warren, Esq., a lawyer of Quincy, -- the same gentleman who is referred to in the Proclamation of Lieutenant General Joseph Smith, as "Esq. Warren."

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

The policy of General Duncan, while Governor, in relation to Banks, Internal Improvements, and other great interests of our State, is now universally acknowledged. Had his recommendations been followed we would have been saved from most of the evils which we are now suffering. -- Every intelligent man knows these facts; and the ballot boxes will tell that the people will sustain a long tried and faithful public servant. -- Sang. Jour.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Judge Ford of Wisconsin,

Is the Mormon candidate for Governor of this State. It will be recollected, by the people of this section of the State, that, efforts are, and have been, made by a portion of the people of Illinois, in which they have received the co-operation of the citizens of Wis., to set off a portion of our State to the Wis. Territory. The tract of the country proposed to be detached from our State, includes the county of Ogle, the residence of Judge Ford, and if they can succeed in being set off they will get rid of their proportion of the State debt, which has been mainly incurred for their benefit.

Are the citizens of Southern and Middle Illinois prepared to submit to this renewed proposition of injustice, on the part of our Northern Brethren? Are they prepared to select as their Governor one of those who are abjuring fellowship with us, and are insisting that they are not citizens of Illinois? Are they willing to yield everything to the north, and continue to rest under the asperation of being their "hewers of wood and drawers of water!" If not let them sustain Gov. Duncan, who goes for Illinois, The whole of Illinois -- and nothing but Illinois.

We are aware that the friends of Judge Ford will attempt to deny that he is for setting off part of the State. But such denial will come with ill grace, at this time, Judge Ford, as a citizen of Illinois, should have entered his protest against the proposition at a time when this question was agitating the people of his section of the country. His doing so now is too much like a dying confession, making a virtue of necessity. He is against us in this section of the State, and all the sophistry in the world cannot convince us to the contrary.

Insult to the North.

Judge Douglass, Joe Smith's "Master Spirit." in a speech he made at Jacksonville on Monday last, against the people's candidate, Gov. Duncan, stated that the inhabitants of teh North were arming themselves for another mob to butcher the women and children of the Mormons. The base slander was not believed by even the most reckless of this little demagogue's party friends, and none, but one as hardened in political deception and ignomity as in Judge Douglass, would have made the assertion. It is a gross and willful slander upon the citizens of the north; which this traveling political Judge dhould be made to answer for.

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Does not Judge Ford intend to resign his Judgeship, now that he has consented to be the Mormon candidate for Governor? Or does he intend to take his change for Governor, and if -- as he most assuredly will be -- defeated, then resume the ermine again? -- No man having the interest of Illinois at stake, and who id desirious of preserving unsullied the Judiciary, will support Judge Ford, unless he at once resigns his Judgeship. This holding one office and running for another is a little too greedy. We should like, also, to know whether Mr. Moore does not intend to resign his senatorship before the election.

Mr. Snyder, when he accepted the nomination of Governor, immediately resigned his office of Senator of St. Clair county. His example ought to be followed by both Judge Ford and Mr. Moore. Will they do it?

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Judge Ford, in a speech he made in Brown county, defended the mormons, as well as the extraordinary and arbitrary powers granted them by the Legislature. Judge Douglass, anotehr of these political Judges, also defended them at Jacksonville, on Monday last, in a speech he made against Gov. Duncan. He declared the duty devolved upon HIM to protect the Mormons from a mob, which he falsely asserted the citizens of the North were raising to attack those people. This course both of these Judges were bound to take in compliance with their contract with the Mormons, to heap anathemas upon Gov. Duncan, and to support Judge Ford. -- Will the citizens of Illinois stand for this?

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During the speech made by Judge Douglass, one of the political Judges of the Supreme Court, at jacksonville, on Monday last, a political friend of his Hinor called upon his to explain why he appointed Gen. Bennett, a leading Mormon, Master in Chancery, in Hancock county. The Judge was mum. He did not, and could not answer the interrogatory.


Notes: (forthcoming)

TESTIMONY  OF  A  POLITICAL  OPPONENT.

The following article is taken from the "Battle Axe" of the 18th ult., a paper published at Winchester, and advocating political principles adverse to those entertained by Gov. Duncan. It contains the language of soberness and truth, and commends itself to the attention of the citizens of this State. What a contrast does this manly and praise-worthy conduct present to that purveyed by the Quincy Herald, State Register, and Chicago Democrat. We are rejoiced that the Battle Axe has regarded the obligations they are under to their country, paramount to that of party; and if the press generally was to adopt this independent course, Illinois would soon be freed from the horde of demagogues that have been sucking her very vitals, and be represented and governed by honest, pure and upright men.

The people throughout the State have become justly alarmed at the assumption, on the part of the Mormons through their spiritual head, "Jo Smith," to decide who shall and who shall not be elected in this State, and in our opinion, there is but one course to be adopted towards those who are applicants for office, and are found courting the favor of the Mormons -- and that is, for the people, without distinction of party, to go en masse against all such candidates.

THE MORMONS AND THE DEMAGOGUES.

The stand taken by Joseph Smith, the head of the church of "Latter day Saints," in elation to the coming gubernatorial election, is causing considerable excitement among the presses and politicians of this State. And that such should be the result of an organized, disciplined and universal move of a powerful body of people -- united and commanded as they are by the ties of brother-hood and the effect of persecution -- to break down or build up a party, or an individual, is not to be wondered at. Indeed, we should marvel if such a spectacle could be looked upon without causing an emotion.

In December last, Joseph Smith published a circular to his friends in Illinois, directing them, or calling upon them, to vote at the coming election for Snyder and Moore for Governor and Lieut. Governor of the State. This was looked upon as a novel move at the time; but excited no feeling until of late, since it has been ascertained that the same person is using his utmost power and influence to prostrate the claims of Gov. Duncan to the office of Governor. As to the relative claims of Gov. Duncan and his opponent to the high office of Governor, we are not to decide -- that question we leave to be settled by the intelligence and wisdom of the people. -- But in relation to a move, like that of the Mormon population, we feel at liberty to speak, and to condemn, if need be -- we feel it a duty to do so.

It will be observed, by those who have kept an eye upon the Mormon population, that they universally go together in all the political movements of the day -- and it is equally plain that in their movements they are not governed by political principles or consistency, but are moved entirely by selfish motives. By reference to their roles for a few years past this fact will be observed.

In 1830, when in Missouri, they all went for Mr. Van Buren; in 1840, they all went for Harrison; last year they supported Mr. Stuart for Congress; and now they are again found determined to support the democratic candidates for State officers. These circumstances, with that of their having their particular friends and favorites selected from both political parties, show that they are not governed by political principle, or any system of political economy, but leave a very plausible inference that they go for those who make the best promises to them, or those whom they think will do the most for them. We do not know that they are much to blame for pursuing their own interest -- it is natural that they should. But we do blame and condemn the men who, for the sake of votes or influence, will
"Bend the crooked hinges of the knee,
Where Thrift will follow fawning."
We cannot find language adequate to express our indignation toward those who have, or may hereafter, make promises or pledges to a particular sect or set of people, to do for them what they would not do for the community as a mass, in order to assure their support. And how superlatively contemptible in the conduct of that individual who makes promises of exclusive favors, thereby obtaining votes, and then pays no regard to the fulfillment of these promises.

TROUBLE  AMONG  JUDGE  FORD'S  CONSTITUENTS.

The last Times & Seasons, the Mormon paper, edited by Joe Smith, the Prophet, contains the following:

NOTICE.

The subscribers members of the first Presidency of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, withdraw the hand of fellowship from Gen. John C. Bennett, as a Christian; he having been labored with from time to time, to persuade him to amend his conduct, apparently to no good effect. JOSEPH SMITH,
HYRUM SMITH,
WM. LAW. The following members of the Quorum of the Twelve concur in the above sentiments:

Brigham Young,     Heber C. Kimball,
Lyman Wight,     William Smith,
John E. Page,     John Taylor,
Wilford Woodruff,     George A. Smith,
Willard Richards.

We concur in the above sentiments:

W. K. WHITNEY,
V. KNIGHT,
GEORGE MILLER. Bishops of the above mentioned Church.

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This identical John C. Bennett is the same distinguished Mormon that Judge Douglass appointed Master in Chancery for Hancock county, over the applications of several of the most reputable citizens of that county. The office was bestowed as part of the price agreed upon by Douglass, Ford, and others, to be paid for the Mormon vote at the approaching election.

It seems that Bennett had several revelations of a peculiar character, which infringed too grossly upon the domestic rights of some of the members of the church, to be borne with impunity; and the revelations became so frequent, that it has resulted in his dismissal. Bennett threatens to disclose the bargain between Douglass, Ford, and others, and Joe Smith and himself, for the Mormon vote; and Tom Ford is terribly alarmed, for fear the people will now get hold of the truth. We have no doubt but that Judge Douglass is ere this on his way to Nauvoo, to reconcile the difference between Joe Smith and Bennett. For the good of the country, and the safety of the State of Illinois, we hope he will not succeed; but that the truth will now be made to appear.

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MORMON CREED.

To mind their own business and let every body else, do likewise. Publish this, ye Editors, who boast of equal rights and privileges.

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The above is taken from the Wasp, a political paper published by the Mormons at Nauvoo. The advice given is unexceptionable; and it is to be regretted that it had not been adopted in the "Mormon Creed," when Joe Smith issued his proclamation to elect Snyder and Moore, and defeat the "old settler," Joe Duncan. If the Mormons had minded "their own business," instead of attempting to control the elections of this State as a church, they would have spared themselves the dilemma in which their unwarranted spiritual interference has placed them.

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==> A Mormon in Brown county, after Gov. Duncan addressed the people of that county, remarked, "if Gov. Duncan does not look out, he'll be Boggs'd." Are we to understand from this, that Gov. Duncan is to receive the same sad fate lately visited by some unknown assassin upon Ex-Governor Boggs, of Missouri? If not, why the threat that if he did not look out, would be "Boggs'd?" By taking Gov. Duncan's life, the Mormon candidate, Judge Ford, may succeed in being elected; but if his life is spared, the citizens of Illinois will put a veto under Political Mormonism, that we trust will effectually efface it from Illinois.

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LAUGHABLE IN THE EXTREME.

The Ottawa Free Trader, one of the Mormon supporters of Judge Ford, denounces Gov. Duncan as a "political renegade." One would suppose that Judge Ford had always been a patent Democrat. Why, the first stump speech we ever heard made in this State was from Judge Ford, at the time Gov. Duncan ran against the late George Forquer, Esq. for Congress. Forquer was a half brother to Judge Ford, and was the Whig candidate. Gov. Duncan made a speech at Edwardsville and Ford, who was then one of the rankest Whigs we ever heard, answered Gov. Duncan on the part of Forquer.

Duncan beat Forquer some 8,000 majority; and Ford, finding the Whigs did not think him worth having or bestowing an office upon, turned Locofoco and was soon thereafter rewarded with an office as the price of his treachery.

It is the knowledge of this fact, not only on our own part, but on the part of hundreds of our old settlers, that makes us laugh, when we see the Free Trader, State Register, and Chicago Democrat, prating about "political renegades." Pluck the beam out of your own eyes, gentlemen, before you attempt to take the mote out of ours.

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Judge  Ford.

The people of Wisconsin Territory are in raptures, that Judge Ford, the Mormon candidate, is out for Gov. They claim that if he is elected, he will use his official influence to secure the annexation of the northern portion of this State to their territory. A gentlemen from Galena informed us. that several influential citizens from Wis. were in the northern counties of this State, prevailing upon our citizens to go for Judge Ford upon that ground. This is very complimentary to middle and southern Ill.; and no doubt Judge Ford thinks he can gull us into his support, while at the same time he claims to be a citizen of Wis. Territory.


Notes: (forthcoming)

Mormonism.

To the politeness of our State fellow-citizen, Mr. John Viall, we are indebted for a copy of a new work, entitled "Mormonism In All Ages; or the Rise, Progress and causes of Mormonism, with a Biography of its Author and Founder, Joseph Smith, Jr.; By Professor J. B. Turner, Ill. College, Jacksonville, Ill." -- As will be readily inferred from its title this publication purports to give a complete history of a people, whose principles, religious and civil, and as well as the cruel presecution to which they were subjected three or four years since in an adjoining State, no less than their present location in the very midst of us, and their rapidly increasing numbers, have of late excited uncommon interest in this section of the country. How far the Author has suceeded in discharging the duties of a historian with a faithfulness and impartiality, we are unable to say. -- Personally, we know but little of the Mormons, as a sect, or the laws which govern them as a distinct political community. The cruel hardships, unmetited, as we then and still do believe to which they were subjected at the time of their forceable [exposure?] from Missouri, excited our liveliest sympathy; and the partial acquaintance which we have since formed with one or two of their number, has most certainly not prejudiced us against them. But, we must nevertheless say, that, a candid and attentive perusal of the work before us has compelled us to come to the conclusion that they are most basely misrepresented and slandered, or that they are parties to and the dupes of the vilest imposture hat ever preyed upon the cedulity of poor fallen man. It is most certain that there is no absurdity, either in religion, politics, or science, which may not rank among its adherent[s], numbers of honest, well meaning, and even in all other respects enlightened individuals; and it does not unfrequently happen that the firmness of the disciples faith is in exact proportion with the ansurdness of his creed. It would, therefore, be doing manifest injustice to the mass of the Mormons -- even should the account given of their religious and political tenets in the volume under considerat