Chapter X

Charges Against the Prophet on his Return from Zion's Camp Expedition--Trial of Elder Sylvester Smith.

_Minutes of a Council held at Kirtland, August 11, 1834_.

This day a number of High Priests and Elders of the Church of the
Latter-day Saints, assembled in the new school house, for the
purpose of investigating a matter of difficulty growing out of
certain reports, or statements, made by Elder Sylvester Smith, one
of the High Councilors of this Church, accusing President Joseph
Smith, Jun., with criminal conduct during his journey to and from
Missouri this spring and summer.

After calling the meeting to order, President Joseph Smith spoke
at considerable length upon the circumstances of their journey to
and from Missouri, and very minutely laid open the causes out of
which the jealousies of Brother Sylvester Smith and others had
grown. He made a satisfactory statement concerning his rebukes and
chastisements upon Sylvester Smith and others, and also concerning
the distribution of monies and other properties, calling on
brethren present who accompanied him, to attest the same, all of
which was satisfactory to the brethren present, as appeared by
their own remarks afterwards.

After President Joseph Smith had closed his lengthy remarks,
Brother Sylvester Smith made some observations relative to the
subject of their difficulties, and began to make a partial
confession for his previous conduct, asking forgiveness for
accusing Brother Joseph publicly, on the Saturday previous, of
prophesying lies in the name of the Lord; and for abusing (as he
had said) his (Sylvester's) character before the brethren, while
journeying to the west.

Elder Rigdon made some remarks, by way of reproof, upon the conduct
of Sylvester Smith.

Elder John P. Greene spoke: others also, followed by the clerk
[Oliver Cowdery]: after which, on motion of Elder Rigdon, the
assembly arranged itself into a council, Bishop Newel K. Whitney
presiding, and proceeded to discuss how this difficulty should be
disposed of.

{143} Elder John Smith thought that for Brother Sylvester to make a
public confession in the _Star_, would be the way to heal the wound.

Elder Cahoon followed with nearly the same remarks.

Elder Isaac Hill thought it ought to be quashed and go no further:
followed with the same from Elder I. Bishop.

Samuel H. Smith said that it was his opinion that Brother Sylvester
ought to make a more public confession, and send by letter, to
those who are in the same transgression with himself, and inform
them of this decision; and then, if necessary, make it public in
the _Star_.

Elder Orson Hyde thought the confession ought to be as liberal as
the accusation, or that it ought to be written and published.

Elder John P. Greene said, that if Brother Sylvester would view
this thing in its proper light, he would be willing to make a
public confession, and send it forth; and he advised him to do this
for the salvation of the churches abroad.

Elder Isaac Story said, that it was his opinion, that the plaster
ought to be as large as the wound; that a proper statement ought to
be published abroad.

The clerk [Oliver Cowdery] then proposed that the council send a
certificate of resolution, informing the churches abroad, that the
conduct of President Joseph Smith has been investigated, and that
he has acted in a proper manner, and in every respect has conducted
himself to the satisfaction of the Church in Kirtland; and also
let Brother Sylvester make a proper confession, following the same
minutes.

Elders Amasa Lyman, Peter Shirts, Truman Wait, Roswell Evans,
Alpheus Cutler, and Thomas Burdick, made remarks to the same effect.

Elder Sidney Rigdon made a few remarks upon the attitude in which
Sylvester stood before the world, in endeavoring to preach the
Gospel.

Elder Orson Hyde moved for a decision relative to the first
question, viz., What is to be done to arrest the evil.

The moderator [Bishop Newel K. Whitney] then proceeded, after a few
remarks, to give a decision according to a motion previously made,
viz., that an article be published in the _Evening and Morning
Star_, by the direction of the Council, that the Church in Kirtland
has investigated the conduct of President Joseph Smith, Jun., while
journeying to the west, and returning; and that we find that he has
acted in every respect in an honorable and proper manner with all
monies and other properties entrusted to his charge; after which a
vote was taken and carried to the above effect.

A motion was then made by Orson Hyde, and seconded by Sidney
Rigdon, that a committee of three be appointed to write the article
for the _Star_, agreeable to the decision.

{144} Oliver Cowdery, Thomas Burdick and Orson Hyde, were nominated
and appointed a committee by unanimous vote.

Brother Sylvester then said that he was willing to publish a
confession in the _Star_.

OLIVER COWDERY, Clerk.

[Sidenote: The Prophet Reports His Vindication to the Elders in Missouri.]

I wrote to Lyman Wight, Edward Partridge, John Corrill, Isaac Morley, and others of the High Council of Zion, from Kirtland, August 16, 1834, as follows:

DEAR BRETHREN--After so long a time, I dictate a few lines to you,
to let you know that I am in Kirtland, and that I found all well
when I arrived, as pertaining to health; but our common adversary
had taken the advantage of our Brother Sylvester Smith, and others,
who gave a false coloring to almost every transaction, from the
time we left Kirtland, until we returned, and thereby stirred up a
great difficulty in the Church against me. Accordingly I was met
in the face and eyes, as soon as I had got home, with a catalogue
of charges as black as the author of lies himself, and the cry
was Tyrant--Pope--King--Usurper--Abuser of men--Angel--False
Prophet--Prophesying lies in the name of the Lord--Taking
consecrated monies--and every other lie to fill up and complete
the catalogue. Such experiences may be necessary to perfect the
Church, and render our traducers mete for the devourer, and the
shaft of the destroying angel. In consequence of having to combat
all these, I have not been able to regulate my mind, so as to give
you counsel, and the information that you needed; but that God
who rules on high, and thunders judgments upon Israel when they
transgress, has given me power from the time I was born into the
kingdom to stand; and I have succeeded in putting all gainsayers
and enemies to flight, unto the present time; and notwithstanding
the adversary laid a plan, which was more subtle than all others,
as you will see by the next _Star_, I now swim in good, clean
water, with my head out.

I shall now proceed to give you such counsel as the Spirit of the
Lord may dictate. You will recollect that your business must be
done by your High Council. You will recollect that the first Elders
are to receive their endowment in Kirtland, before the redemption
of Zion. You will recollect that Council will have power to say
who of the first Elders among the children of Zion are accounted
worthy; and you will also recollect that you have my testimony
in behalf of certain ones, previous to my departure. You will
recollect {145} that the sooner these ambassadors of the Most High
are dispatched to bear testimony, to lift up a warning voice,
and proclaim the everlasting Gospel, and to use every convincing
proof and faculty with this generation, while on their journey to
Kirtland--the better it will be for them and for Zion. Inasmuch as
the indignation of the people sleepeth for a while our time should
be employed to the best advantage; although it is not the will of
God, that these ambassadors should hold their peace after they have
started upon their journey. They should arouse the sympathy of the
people.

I would recommend to Brother Phelps, (if he be yet there,) to write
a petition, such as will be approved by the High Council; and let
every signer be obtained that can be, in the State of Missouri by
them while they are on their journey to this place [Kirtland] that
peradventure we may learn whether we have friends or not in these
United States.

This petition is to be sent to the governor of Missouri, to solicit
him to call on the President of the United States for a guard to
protect our brethren in Jackson county, upon their own lands, from
the insults and abuse of the mob.

And I would recommend to Brother Wight to enter complaint to the
governor as often as he receives any insults or injury; and in
case that they proceed to endeavor to take life, or tear down
houses, and if the citizens of Clay county do not befriend us, to
gather up the little army, and be set over immediately into Jackson
county, and trust in God, and do the best he can in maintaining
the ground. But, in case the excitement continues to be allayed,
and peace prevails, use every effort to prevail on the churches to
gather to those regions and locate themselves, to be in readiness
to move into Jackson county in two years from the eleventh of
September next, which is the appointed time for the redemption of
Zion. If--verily I say unto you--if the Church with one united
effort perform their duties; if they do this, the work shall be
complete--if they do not this in all humility, making preparation
from this time forth, like Joseph in Egypt, laying up store
against the time of famine, every man having his tent, his horses,
his chariots, his armory, his cattle, his family, and his whole
substance in readiness against the time when it shall be said: 'To
your tents, O Israel! Let not this be noised abroad; let every
heart beat in silence, and every mouth be shut.

Now, my beloved brethren, you will learn by this we have a great
work to do, and but little time to do it in; and if we do not exert
ourselves to the utmost in gathering up the strength of the Lord's
house that this thing may be accomplished, behold there remaineth
a scourge for the Church, even that they shall be driven from city
to city, and {146} but few shall remain to receive an inheritance;
if those things are not kept, there remaineth a scourge also;
therefore, be wise this once, O ye children of Zion! and give heed
to my counsel, saith the Lord.

I would inform Bishop Partridge that the bill I received from him
was good, and when I can get our money changed for another, I will
mail it to him.

The brethren, up to now, have generally arrived from Clay county in
health, notwithstanding the warm season. I would also inform Bishop
Partridge that I am not satisfied with Brother Hulet concerning
the colt, and so long as unrighteous acts are suffered in the
Church, it cannot be sanctified, neither can Zion be redeemed; and
also that I was obliged to leave the consecrated horn in Illinois,
also Brother William E. M'Lellin, who was sick. We expect when he
recovers that he will come to Kirtland. He was very humble, and I
entertain no doubt as to his standing while he continues so. We
have a desire to hear concerning the cholera, and whether Sister
Bunnel is yet alive. Inform us as to all deaths, and give the names
and standing of all those who are called away.

The cholera is raging in Detroit, Cleveland, Fairport, Buffalo, and
other places. We found it in Chariton as we came through and almost
every other place. It is an awful and solemn day, but this is only
the foreshadowing of what is to come.

The churches seem to be in a cold, languid and disconsolate state;
and as the revolution of the earth is once in twenty-four hours, so
we may look for frequent revolutions among this wicked and perverse
generation, and also in the Church of Christ. When the head is
sick, the whole body is faint; and when the Church lifts up the
head, the angel will bring us good tidings. Even so. Amen.

Joseph Smith, Jun.

[Sidenote: The Plague of Cholera in Cleveland.]

_August 21_.--Doctor Frederick G. Williams returned from Cleveland and told us concerning the plague, and after much consultation, we agreed that Dr. Williams should go to Cleveland and commence administering to the sick, for the purpose of obtaining blessings for them, and for the glory of the Lord. Accordingly, we (Joseph, Frederick, and Oliver,) united in prayer before the Lord for this thing. Now, O Lord, grant us these blessings in the name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

[Sidenote: Affairs in Missouri--Hulet Branch Troubles.]

The same day the High Council of Zion assembled at {147} the house of Lyman Wight, and Elders Simeon Carter and Amasa Lyman made a report concerning their mission to the Hulet branch. They found the church willing to receive the decision of the last council respecting the false spirits with which they had been troubled.

[Sidenote: Charge Against Lyman Wight.]

John Corrill entered a complaint against Lyman Wight for teaching that "all disease in this Church is of the devil, and that medicine administered to the sick is of the devil; for the sick in the Church ought to live by faith."

Elder Wight acknowledged that he had taught the doctrine, and rather believed it to be correct.

The President decided that it was not lawful to teach the Church that all disease is of the devil, but if there is anyone who has this faith, let him have it to himself; and if there are any who believe that roots and herbs administered to the sick, and all wholesome vegetables which God has ordained for the use of man--and if any say that such things applied to the sick, in order that they may receive health, and this medicine is applied by any member of the Church--if there are any among you that teach that these things are of Satan, such teaching is not of God.

[Sidenote: Resolutions of Vindication.]

On the 23rd of August, a council convened for the purpose of hearing the resolutions designed for the _Star_, which were to be drawn up by Elders Oliver Cowdery, Thomas Burdick, and Orson Hyde, on the subject of the difficulty existing between President Joseph Smith, Jun., and Sylvester Smith.

Elder Reynolds Cahoon presided in consequence of the ill health of Bishop Whitney.

The following preamble and resolutions were read and adopted, to wit:--

Whereas a report having come to this place [Kirtland] censuring
the conduct of President Joseph Smith, Jun., relative to his
proceedings {148} during his late journey to and from Missouri;
and whereas said report was calculated to create an unfavorable
influence as regards the moral character and honesty of our
brother, it becomes necessary for us to investigate the matter, and
report the same to our brethren abroad; Therefore,--

_Resolved_: That after hearing from the mouths of some that a
suspicion rested upon their minds relative to the conduct of
our President as regards his honesty and godly walk, we have
investigated his whole proceedings by calling upon those who
accompanied him to and from Missouri, and we are happy to have
it in our power to say to our brethren abroad, one and all, that
we satisfied with his conduct, having learned from the clearest
evidence, that he has acted in every respect worthy his high
and responsible station in this Church, and has prudently and
cautiously preserved the good of this society at large, and is
still worthy of our esteem and fellowship, and that those reports
could have originated in the minds of none except such as either
from a natural misunderstanding, or a natural jealousy, are easily
led to conceive of evils where none exists.

_Resolved_: That we say to out brethren that while we are
surrounded by thousands eager to grasp at a shadow, if they have a
hope of turning it into a falsehood for the injury of the Gospel,
we exhort them to be steadfast and immovable in the truth, resting
assured that while they continue to walk in the Holy Covenant they
have professed to embrace, that nothing can in the end operate
against their good; and that while wickedness abounds, as in days
of old, the characters of those seeking the greatest good for their
lives misrepresented, and a false shade thrown over their worthy
deeds, all this is calculated to create an evil prejudice in the
minds of the community, to present, if possible, the increase of
light, the better to effect evil purposes and keep men in error.
We say, dear brethren, may peace and the blessings of our Lord
Jesus Christ be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of truth,
forever.

_Resolved_: That the minutes be signed by the moderator and clerk,
and published to the churches in the _Evening and Morning Star_.

Reynolds Cahoon, Moderator.

Oliver Cowdery, Clerk.

We, the undersigned, members of the above named Conference, for the
satisfaction of our brethren abroad, feel it to be our duty to say
to those with whom we have a personal acquaintance, that we were
present during the foregoing investigation, and cheerfully concur
in the spirit of the above minutes, and join in saying that we are
perfectly satisfied that whatever impressions may have gone abroad,
or whatever may {149} remain with any in this vicinity, relative to
the conduct of our President, Joseph Smith, Jun., we are certain
(from evidence) that he conducted himself in all respects as set
forth in the resolutions of this Conference. We are induced to make
these statements that the innocent may not suffer wrongfully, and
that the minds of our brethren and friends may be satisfied, that
every appearance of evil is, in this place, searched out, and that
nothing unbecoming a society of people professing godliness is
suffered to exist among them.

IRA AMES, Benson, Vermont.

ASA LYMAN, Parishville, New York.

JOHN RUDD, Springfield, Erie county, Pennsylvania.

ISAAC STOREY, Warsaw, New York.

WILLIAM BURGESS, Bolton, New York.

JONAS PUTNAM, Bolton, New York.

J.B. BOSWORTH, from the church in Norton.

ROSWELL EVANS, Waterford, Vermont.

JOHN SMITH, Potsdam, New York.

ORSON JOHNSON, Bath, New Hampshire.

OLIVER HIGLEY, Jamestown.

ALMAN SHERMAN, Pomfret, New York.

JACOB BUMP, Silver Creek, New York.

ISAAC HILL, East Liverpool, Ohio.

LORENZO YOUNG, the same.

The undersigned members of this Conference, having accompanied
President Joseph Smith, Jun., to and from Missouri, certify that
the above is a correct statement concerning his character and
conduct.

LYMAN E. JOHNSON.

HEBER C. KIMBALL. [1]

[Sidenote: Sylvester Smith Refuses to Accept the Decision of the Council.]

Brother Sylvester Smith objected to abiding by the decision of the former council, and proceeded to justify himself in his former conduct; and after much discussion, the following resolution was offered by the clerk, and passed by unanimous vote:--

_Resolved_: That in consequence of the stand our brother, Sylvester
Smith, has taken against the former decision of this council, that
we judge him guilty of a misdemeanor, unbecoming a man in his high
{150} station, and except a humble confession be made to this,
council, he stands rebuked, and disqualified to act further in his
office in the Church, until he make proper satisfaction, or till a
trail before the Bishop, assisted by twelve High Priests can be had.

OLIVER COWDERY,

Clerk of Council.

[Sidenote: Formal Trial of Sylvester Smith.]

_August 28, 1834_.--This day the High Council assembled according to the direction of Bishop Whitney, to try Brother Sylvester Smith, charged with a misdemeanor. The following is a copy of the complaint:--

_To Newel K. Whitney, Bishop of the Church of Latter-day Saints in
Kirtland_.

Sir, I prefer the following charges against Sylvester Smith, a High
Priest of said Church:--

1st. He has refused to submit to the decision of a council of the
High Priests and Elders of this Church, held in this place on the
11th of this month, given in a case of difficulty between said
Sylvester Smith and Joseph Smith, Jun.

2nd. He continues to charge said Joseph Smith, contrary to the
decision of the before mentioned council, with improper conduct
in his proceedings as President of the Church of the Latter-day
Saints, during his journey the past season to the State of Missouri.

As these things are exceedingly grievous to many of the Saints in
Kirtland, and very prejudicial to the cause of truth in general, I
therefore require that you summon the High Council of this Church
to investigate this case, that a final decision may be had upon the
same. I say the High Council because it is a case affecting the
Presidency of said Church. [2]

Sidney Rigdon.

Kirtland, Ohio, August 23, 1834.

{151} _Bishop Whitney notifies Sylvester Smith of the Charge_.

Kirtland, Ohio, August 27, 1834.

Brother Sylvester Smith--Whereas complaint has been made to me by
Counselor Sidney Rigdon, setting forth that you have been violating
the laws of the Church of the Latter-day Saints, you are therefore,
notified to appear before the High Council of High Priests, to be
held in the Council House, in Kirtland, on the 28th day of August,
at ten o'clock, a.m., to answer to said charges, agreeably to the
laws of the Church.

N. K. Whitney, Bishop.

The presidents proceeded to nominate a High Priest to fill the
vacancy in the council, occasioned by the death of Elder John
C. Carter, viz.: Orson Johnson--which nomination was carried
unanimously, and he was ordained High Councilor under the hands of
Counselor Sidney Rigdon.

Councilor Luke S. Johnson said he wished to be excused from sitting
in this council, because he had been previously tempted on some
matters, and that he had sinned, and wished to make a more public
confession than he could make here.

After some remarks from the councilors, it was decided that Elder
Johnson continue his seat in the council.

Elder John P. Greene was appointed to act in the place of Sylvester
Smith; also Elder Amos Durfee in the place of John Johnson, Sen.,
who was absent; also Lyman Johnson in the place of Martin Harris.

The council was organized and complaint read. It was agreed that
six councilors speak on the case. The bishop then charged the
council in the name of the Lord, to act according to truth and
righteousness.

Elder Reynolds Cahoon testified that the testimony given before a
council, on the 11th instant, was, that President Joseph Smith,
Jun., had conducted himself in a proper manner, while journeying
to and from Missouri; and that the council considered that
Sylvester Smith had accused President Joseph Smith wrongfully, and
was entirely in the fault. He further considered that everything
bearing on or relating to this affair had been brought before the
council, and from this they gave their decision.

Elder John P. Greene concurred in the foregoing statements, and
he supposed that Brother Sylvester, on the 11th instant, saw the
affair in the same light in consequence of his [Sylvester's] saying
at the time, that he was not previously aware of the spirit that
possessed him at the time he made his charges against President
Joseph Smith.

Elder Alpheus Cutler said that he considered that the evidence
given before the council on the 27th was sufficient to prove that
President {152} Joseph Smith had conducted himself in an honorable
manner during his late journey to and from Missouri, and that he
considered that the evidence there given was such that it could not
be invalidated.

Elder Jacob Bump said that previous to the council on the 11th
his mind had been agitated, and it was in consequence, in part,
of reports which had been put in circulation respecting President
Smith's conduct during his late journey to and from Missouri; but
when he heard the case investigated before that council his mind
was satisfied that he had been misinformed, and was fully satisfied
that President Joseph Smith had not acted in any respect contrary
to righteousness before the Lord.

Elder Asa Lyman said, that previous to the council his mind had
been agitated also, but was satisfied at the council; and he verily
believed from the evidence there given that President Joseph Smith
had not acted contrary to justice.

Elder Jacob Bump said that his mind was excited still further after
conversing with Brother Sylvester, previous to the 11th, which
served in a degree to excite his mind further.

Elder Edmund Bosley said that he understood the case on the 11th in
the same light as stated by Brothers Cahoon and Whitney.

Elders John Rudd, Ezekiel Rider and Samuel H. Smith viewed the case
in the same light.

Elder Orson Hyde said that he considered that Brother Sylvester was
to publish a confession in the _Evening and Morning Star_, and that
he himself had been in the fault, and this President Smith had not
committed fault, as he [Sylvester] had previously stated.

Elders Alpheus Cutler, J. P. Greene, Ezekiel Rider, Jacob Bump,
Samuel H. Smith, John Rudd and Frederick G. Williams concurred.

Elder Oliver Cowdery said, that after listening to all the reports
and evidences, from the beginning up to the decision on the 11th
instant, he considered that Brother Sylvester was to acknowledge
that all the charges previously preferred in public against
President Joseph Smith were ungrounded, and that he [Sylvester]
was the one, and the only one in fault, touching all circumstances
occurring between himself and President Joseph Smith, and that the
other charges indirectly preferred as grievances of others, were
also without foundation.

Elder John Smith concurred in the above.

Elder C. Durfee said that he considered that President Smith was
acquitted, as not being guilty of any misdemeanor before the
council on the 11th.

Elder Orson Hyde said that he had accompanied President Smith to
Missouri from Mansfield in Ohio, except leaving him for a short
time to visit the governor of Missouri. He was present when Brother
{153} Sylvester reproved President Smith concerning a certain
difficulty arising about a dog; that he considered President
Smith's reproofs were just at the time, as he well recollects
stating the same in substance to President Smith. He said he did
not consider this reproof had any tendency to lessen the esteem of
the brethren for President Smith; but if it had, in consequence of
a confession in general terms from President Smith about that time,
he thought that sufficient to heal any hard feeling then existing
against him, or that might exist; and that during his journey to
the west, he could not say that he had seen anything in President
Smith's conduct contrary to the true principles of his profession
as a man of God.

Elder Luke S. Johnson said that he fell in company with President
Joseph Smith at Mansfield, Ohio, and accompanied him most of the
way to Missouri; and that during the whole course of the journey
he did not see anything in his conduct to lessen his esteem for
him as a man of God. But he said he heard President Joseph Smith
reprove Brother Sylvester concerning a certain matter respecting
some bread; he did not hear the whole, and thought at the time the
reproofs were rather severe, but had learned since they were not
any more severe than just.

President Joseph Smith was then called upon to make a statement
concerning the transactions as they happened at the time these
reproofs were given. He said that Brother John S. Carter came
to him to know whether Brother Sylvester had conducted himself
right in the affairs between him [Sylvester] and Brother Parley
P. Pratt, when Brother Pratt called upon Brother Sylvester for
some bread for supper. He learned from Brother Pratt's mouth that
Brother Sylvester had more bread than he needed at the time, yet
directed him to some one else, who, he [Brother Sylvester] said,
had sufficient. President Smith then went with Brothers Pratt and
John S. Carter to Brother Sylvester's tent, where Brother Sylvester
justified himself in not imparting a portion of his bread to
Brother Pratt. He then rebuked Brother Sylvester for contending
that he had done right in this case, because, if this was so,
brethren might frequently retire to rest without food, and as long
as he [Brother Sylvester] had bread he was bound to impart to
those who had none; and that, under these circumstances, Brother
Sylvester had conducted himself contrary to the principles of
Christ; and that his [Sylvester's] mind was darkened in consequence
of this covetous spirit.

The moderator then adjourned the counsel until nine o'clock, a.m.,
tomorrow, at this place.

Elder Hyrum Smith closed by prayer.

August 29th, nine o'clock, a. m., council being organized in due
form, the testimony was continued as follows:

{154} Elder Luke S. Johnson said, in relation to a circumstance
that occurred on the twenty-five mile prairie in Missouri, that by
a direction from the leader of the camp he had been back to inspect
the crossing at a certain creek; that when he came up with the camp
he found it moving, and as he was behind, he went on till he came
up with Brother Wight's and Sylvester's company, and found them out
of the road building a fire to cook supper. As the teams passed on
Brother Sylvester called to the leaders of companies (those who
were yet behind), and asked them whom they were following; whether
General Wight or some other man. Some hesitated a little and went
on. After taking supper he [Luke] went on with their company.

When he came up with the camp from the creek he found that the
ensign or flag commonly carried ahead for the camp to follow, was
then moving forward. He further said that he understood that Joseph
was appointed to lead the camp; that he always, or generally, gave
orders when the camp should move forward, and when it should stop;
that when on his way to the creek the second time he met President
Smith, who told him that he Joseph should order the camp to move
into the prairie. When the camp came to order on the prairie in the
evening, Brothers Wight and Sylvester were called upon to state
why they had sought to divide the camp. They both acknowledged
that they had been out of the way by so doing, and were reproved
for their conduct. Relative to an assertion heretofore made, that
President Smith did at the time throw a trumpet or horn at Brother
Sylvester, he did not consider at the time that the President had
any intention of throwing it at Brother Sylvester, because he might
have hit him with it, being so near to him as he was; it only fell
to the ground near to them (himself and Brother Sylvester), but
supposed that he had had it in his hand, and only threw it down as
usual. He further said that the reproofs given by President Smith
at the time were no more severe than he had often heard him give
previously; that he did not consider him angry, as he has been
represented.

Elder Hyrum Smith said, that when the camp first came to the creek
he and his brother Joseph were forward; that while the teams were
crossing Brother Joseph asked whether it was advisable to move
into the prairie to camp. After consultation it was first advised
to camp in the bushes in the edge of the prairie. While making
preparations to encamp they were informed that a mob intended to
make an attack upon them that night. They further consulted upon
their situation, and himself and Brother Thayer were requested by
Brother Joseph to go on to the edge of the prairie, where they
might encamp. They looked out a place, but it was near the bushes,
and Brother Joseph gave an order to go forward on to the prairie.
Some complained of the {155} order because they could not find fuel
with which to cook their supper. They were told that it would be
advisable to carry wood for that purpose. Some further remarks were
offered on the subject of a visit from a mob, and preparations were
made with the guns, etc. Some fears were entertained for the teams
and families yet crossing the creek, and it was thought advisable
to send back a company, among whom was Luke S. Johnson, to guard
and assist them over. He then took the flag or standard--as he
had previously carried it--and gave the word to move forward,
and the teams immediately began to follow. After the company had
come upon the prairie, himself and Elder Roger Orton received an
order to call on Lyman Wight to place a strong guard around the
camp that night; but he [Wight] refused doing anything further,
because he supposed that he [Hyrum] had ordered the camp on to the
prairie without an order from the commander of the company. He
was then informed by Brother Joseph that it was by his [Joseph's]
order that the camp moved on to the prairie. He was present when
Brother Joseph reproved Lyman Wight and Sylvester Smith, and saw
the transactions concerning the trumpet or horn; and as to Brother
Joseph's intention or design to throw it at Sylvester, he had
no such thought at the time, nor could he have had such thought
since; that at the time when Joseph had finished his remarks to
Lyman Wight and Sylvester Smith he threw the horn on the ground,
and Brother Wight told him the next day that he had had a jealousy
existing in his mind against him [Hyrum] for some days, but now
his mind was satisfied, and he now had no hardness or jealousy. He
further said, that when he received the order for moving the camp
on the prairie, Brothers Lyman and Sylvester were near by.

Adjourned to one o'clock p. m.

Council met according to adjournment. The clerk called the names of
the councilors and parties, when business was resumed.

Elder Brigham Young said, that he was in company with President
Joseph Smith, Jun., from about twenty-seven miles of this place
[Kirtland] till they arrived in Clay county, Missouri; that at
the time the difficulty occurred on the Twenty-five Mile Prairie,
when the camp was divided, he concurred in what Brother Hyrum had
said, and that he could not relate it any more circumstantially
than he had done. He further said that he had not seen anything in
President Smith's conduct to justify the charge previously made by
Brother Sylvester "that his heart was corrupt." So far from this,
he had not seen the least shadow of anything of the kind. He had
not seen anything in his [Joseph's] conduct, during his journey to
the west, unbecoming his profession as a man of God.

_Question by Sylvester Smith_.--Did you not think that my character
{156} was injured in the minds of the weaker part of the camp in
consequence of those reproofs and chastisements which were given me
by Brother Joseph?

_Answer_.--I did not.

Elder Young further said in regard to a certain difficulty over
a dog, that on a certain evening after crossing the Mississippi
river, Brother Sylvester came up with the remaining part of
the camp, when the dog came out and barked at him; he knew not
whether the dog bit him or not. The next morning, after hearing
considerable complaint and murmuring concerning the dog, President
Smith spoke to several brethren present and said, "I will descend
to that spirit that is in the camp, to show you the spirit you are
of, for I want to drive it from the camp. _The man that kills that
dog, (or my dog), I will whip him_." He thought that about this
time Brother Sylvester came up, and said, "_If that dog bites me
I will kill him_." Joseph replied, "If you do, I will whip you."
Sylvester said, "If you do, I shall defend myself the best way that
I can!" Brother Joseph then said that he "would do it in the name
of the Lord."

President Smith then asked the brethren if they were not ashamed of
such a spirit. Said he, "_I am_."

He then proceeded to reprove them for condescending to that spirit;
that they ought to be above it; that it was the spirit of a dog;
and men ought never to place themselves on a level with the beasts;
but be possessed of a more noble disposition. He [Joseph] then
said, he had condescended to that spirit, in order to show the
spirit which was among them.

Elder Young further said, that this explanation gave general
satisfaction, and the most of the brethren saw that he had only
made these remarks for the purpose of instructing them, and warning
them against such a spirit or disposition.

Elders Lyman E. Johnson and Heber C. Kimball concurred.

Elder David Elliot said he was not present when those reproofs were
given in the morning; that the circumstances were related to him
afterwards, which unfavorably affected his mind, and gave him some
disagreeable feelings; that at noon he heard President Joseph give
a further explanation, which perfectly satisfied him.

He further said, that during the forenoon he learned there were
many of the brethren dissatisfied with President Smith's remarks
in the morning concerning the dog, but that after the explanation
at noon so generally given, he thought that every one in the camp
might have understood President Smith's purpose.

Elder Lorenzo Booth concurred in the statement of Elder Young;
though he was not present in the morning when the reproofs were
given {157} concerning the dog; that he was with President Smith
from twenty-seven miles from this place [Kirtland] to Missouri, and
a part of the way home; that he did not see anything in President
Smith's character derogatory to a man professing religion; that
he was present during a certain transaction which occurred during
their journey home, respecting certain articles of bedding: that he
had heard since his return that President Smith and Ezra Thayer had
fought; that he was present during the whole transaction, and there
was no fighting.

He further said, in relation to a certain report which had come to
his knowledge since his return from Missouri, that President Smith
had taken a bed quilt which was not his property; that while at New
Portage, Ohio, on their way to Missouri, one of the brethren gave
him [Joseph] two bed quilts, which he [Booth] had charge of, as he
was the individual who drove the team for President Smith, and had
charge of the baggage; that before leaving Clay county, Missouri,
he [Booth] took them to be washed, and after starting for home he
put them on board of the wagon, the baggage of which he had the
charge during their journey home; that he brought the same back
with him, has seen them since, and knows that the one which was
said to be the property of another individual, is the one which was
given President Smith at Norton.

Counselor Frederick G. Williams said, while at Norton certain
articles were handed him to mark, among which were two bed quilts,
which he marked with common ink; has seen certain bed quilts since
his return, and has no doubt but this one in question is the one he
marked.

Elder Brigham Young further said relative to a difficulty about
some bread, that Elder John S. Carter, on their journey to
Missouri, on the line between Ohio and Indiana, said to President
Smith, "Is this thing right?" "What thing?" "Concerning Parley P.
Pratt's asking Brother Sylvester for some bread for supper."

He then learned that Brother Pratt had asked Brother Sylvester for
some bread; that Sylvester had bread at the time, but directed
Brother Pratt to some one else, who he [Sylvester] said had
sufficient; that Elder Pratt called upon that individual, and could
not obtain any; that he was present when President Smith told
Brother Sylvester that he had not acted right in the matter, that
he ought to impart when he had it instead of directing one where
he was not certain he could obtain, that by so doing some might be
deprived of food at times.

He further said, that Brother Sylvester contended he had been
right, and justified his own conduct in the matter; that Joseph
reasoned with Sylvester to convince him that he [Sylvester] was in
fault; but he continued to justify his course till President Smith
reproved him sharply.

{158} He frequently heard the brethren speak of this circumstance,
and all whom he had heard say anything on the subject, manifested
a satisfaction with President Smith, and thought his observations
correct, and the principles which he advanced, just.

Elder Lyman Sherman said that he concurred in Elder Young's
statement concerning the bread; that he thought it was generally
known that Elder Pratt, in consequence of Brother Sylvester's not
furnishing him with bread, was deprived of bread that night; that
at the time he [Joseph] told him [Sylvester] that Brother Parley
did not obtain any bread in consequence of Brother Sylvester not
supplying him with it.

Elder Jacob Bump said, that since the brethren's return from
the west he had gone with Sylvester to Elder Rigdon to advise
concerning the adjusting of certain complaints which were in
circulation respecting President Joseph Smith's conduct on the
journey to and from Missouri; that Brother Sylvester told Brother
Rigdon that Elder Pratt did obtain bread of the individual to when
he sent him.

Elder Orson Hyde said, that he concurred in the statements of Elder
Brigham Young concerning the circumstances which occurred at the
time the difficulty arose about the bread.

Elders Lyman Johnson and Heber C. Kimball concurred in the same
statement.

Elder Orson Hyde then exhibited an account current, taken from the
receipts of monies and other property expended during their late
journey to and from Missouri.

This account was taken from documents during the journey by
Counselor Frederick G. Williams, who said that the account
exhibited was correctly taken from his accounts, as he had the
charge of the monies, and attended to paying them out, etc.

The case was then submitted to the council, and the councilors
severally spoke in their turns, followed by the complainant and
accused, as follows:--First, the councilors: Jared Carter commenced
fifteen minutes before six o'clock, p. m., and spoke twenty-five
minutes. Joseph Smith, Sen., commenced ten minutes past six o'clock
and spoke five minutes. John Smith commenced fifteen minutes past
six o'clock and spoke ten minutes. Lyman E. Johnson commenced
twenty-five minutes past six o'clock and spoke one minute. Oliver
Cowdery commenced twenty-eight minutes past six and spoke two hours
and twelve minutes. Joseph Coe commenced twenty minutes before nine
o'clock and spoke five minutes.

The accuser, Sidney Rigdon, commenced fifteen minutes before nine
o'clock and spoke five minutes. Oliver Cowdery spoke seven minutes
more.

{159} The accused, Sylvester Smith, commenced eighteen minutes
before ten o'clock and spoke one hour and eighteen minutes.

The Moderator then gave the following decision:

"That if Brother Sylvester Smith will acknowledge the following
items of complaint before this council, and publish the same in
print; that he can remain yet a member of this Church, otherwise
he is expelled from the same, viz.: First, he is to acknowledge
that he has wickedly and maliciously accused our President, Joseph
Smith, Jun., with prophesying lies in the name of the Lord, once
on the line between Ohio and Indiana, and at another time after
crossing the Mississippi river, and at another time, after leaving
the Church in Missouri, at Florida; that he is to acknowledge,
that in making these charges against President Joseph Smith,
Jun., he has himself wilfully and maliciously lied; that he has
maliciously told falsehoods in saying that President Joseph Smith,
Jun., has abused him with insulting and abusive language, and also
in injuring his character and standing before the brethren while
journeying to Missouri; that he further cast out insinuations
concerning President Joseph Smith's character, which was also an
evil and malicious design to injure President Smith's standing in
the Church; that he further acknowledge that he has abused the
former councils which have sat upon this case, and wickedly and
maliciously insulted their just and righteous decisions; that
he has further tantalized this present council, in seeking to
excuse himself contrary to the advice of the counselors, after
acknowledging that it was organized by the direction of revelation;
and further, that he has wilfully and maliciously lied, by saying
that Brother Joseph Smith, Jun., had prohibited the liberty of
speech on their journey to Missouri; that he also acknowledge that
he has wickedly and maliciously lied by charging President Joseph
Smith, Jun., of being possessed of a heart as corrupt as hell."

The councilors were then called upon to give their assent to the
foregoing decision, and they concurred unanimously.

"I hereby certify that the foregoing charges or complaint are just
and true, and hereby acknowledge the same, as set forth in the
decisions of this council, by signing my own proper name to their
minutes, with my own hand. (Signed)

"Sylvester Smith."

The above was signed for fear of punishment. [3]

{160} The council then proceeded to other business, President
Joseph Smith presiding.

Council agreed that the Church in Kirtland be instructed in their
particular duties, etc., on Sunday next, by President Joseph Smith,
Jun. It was further decided that Elder Brigham Young be appointed
to take the lead in singing in our meetings.

The council then closed, at fifteen minutes before three o'clock,
a. m., on the 30th of August, 1834. Brother Reynolds Cahoon prayed.

Oliver Cowdery,

Orson Hyde,

Clerks.

Footnotes

1. The foregoing resolutions to this point were all published in the _Evening and Morning Star_, vol. 2, No. 23, August, 1834.

2. This has reference to the special High Council of the Church authorized to try the President of the High Priesthood, who is also the President of the Church, should he be found in transgression. The Council consists of the Presiding Bishop of the Church, assisted by twelve High Priests, agreeable to the revelation which says: "And inasmuch as a President of the High Priesthood shall transgress, he shall be had in remembrance before the common Council of the Church, who shall be assisted by twelve counselors of the High Priesthood; and their decision upon his head shall be an end of controversy concerning him. Thus, none shall be exempt from the justice and the laws of God, that all things may be done in order and in solemnity before Him, according to truth and righteousness." Doctrine and Covenants, Sec. 107:82-84.

As remarked by Elder Rigdon, inasmuch as this case was one involving charges against the Presidency of the Church, it was proper that it should be heard by this special council of the Church.

3. This remark assigning a "fear of punishment" as the reason why Sylvester Smith signed the above acquiescence in the decision of the council, may have been true at the time it was signed; but in justice to Sylvester Smith the fact ought to be known that after time to reflect upon his conduct and his accusation against the Prophet his mind underwent a very radical change: for in a communication to the _Messenger and Advocate_, under date of October 28, 1834, he volunteered a most complete vindication of the Prophet's course while on the Zion's Camp expedition, and made a most humble confession of his own shortcomings. Following is the communication referred to:

_Dear Brother_:

"Having heard that certain reports are circulating abroad, prejudicial to the character of Brother Joseph Smith, Jun., and that said reports purport to have come from me, I have thought proper to give the public a plain statement of the facts concerning this matter. It is true, that some difficulties arose between Brother Joseph Smith, Jun., and myself, in our travels the past summer to Missouri; and that on our return to this place I laid my grievances before a general council, where they were investigated in full, in an examination which lasted several days, and the result showed to the satisfaction of all present, I believe, but especially to myself, that in all things Brother Joseph Smith, Jun., had conducted worthily, and adorned his profession as a man of God, while journeying to and from Missouri. And it is no more than just that I should confess my faults by saying unto all people, so far as your valuable and instructive paper has circulation, that the things that I accused Brother Smith of were without foundation; as most clearly proven, by the evidence which was called, to my satisfaction. And in fact, I have not at any time withdrawn my confidence and fellowship from Brother Joseph Smith, Jun., but thought that he had inadvertently erred, being but flesh and blood, like the rest of Adam's family. But I am now perfectly satisfied that the errors of which I accused him before the council, did not exist, and were never committed by him; and my contrition has been and still continues to be deep, because I admitted thoughts into my head which were not right concerning him; and because that I have been the means of giving rise to reports which have gone abroad, censuring the conduct of Brother Joseph Smith, Jun., which reports are without foundation. And I hope that this disclosure of the truth, written by my own hand, and sent abroad into the world, through the medium of the _Messenger and Advocate_, will put a final end to all evil reports and censurings which have sprung out of anything that I have said or done.

"I wish still further to state for the relief of my own feelings, which you must be sensible are deeply wounded in consequence of what has happened, that I know for myself, because I have received testimony from the heavens that the work of the Lord, brought forth by means of the Book of Mormon, in our day through the instrumentality of Brother Joseph Smith Jun., is eternal truth, and must stand, though the heavens and the earth pass away.

"Please give publication to the above, and oblige a lover of righteousness and truth.

Yours in the testimony of Jesus,

"Sylvester Smith."

"To O. Cowdery, Kirtland, October 28, 1834."

{161}