Chapter V

Affairs of the Saints before United States Senate--General Conference of the Church at Nauvoo--Action of the Church with Reference to Senate Committee's Report--Mission to Palestine.

_Friday, 6_.--Attended the meeting of the High Council of Iowa, at Brother Elijah Fordham's, Montrose.

_Extract from the Minutes of the Iowa High Council_.

President Joseph Smith, Jun., addressed the Council on various
subjects, and in particular the consecration law; stating that
the affairs now before Congress was the only thing that ought
to interest the Saints at present; and till it was ascertained
how it would terminate, no person ought to be brought to account
before the constituted authorities of the Church for any offense
whatever; and [he] was determined that no man should be brought
before the Council in Nauvoo till that time, etc., etc. The law
of consecration could not be kept here, and that it was the will
of the Lord that we should desist from trying to keep it; and if
persisted in, it would produce a perfect defeat of its object, and
that he assumed the whole responsibility of not keeping it until
proposed by himself. [1]

{94} He requested every exertion to be made to forward affidavits
to Washington, and also letters to members of Congress. The
following votes were then passed:

First--That this Council will coincide with President Joseph Smith,
Jun.'s decision concerning the consecration law, on the principle
of its being the will of the Lord, and of President Smith's taking
the responsibility on himself.

Second--That a committee of three be appointed, consisting of
Wheeler Baldwin, Lyman Wight, and Abraham O. Smoot, to obtain
affidavits and other documents to be forwarded to the city of
Washington.

Third--That the clerk of this Council be directed to inform Judge
Higbee, that it is the wish of this Council that he should not,
upon any consideration, consent to accept of anything of Congress
short of our just rights and demands for our losses and damages in
Missouri.

_Sunday, 8_.--I attended the Council of Nauvoo, at Brother Granger's.

President Brigham Young preached in Columbia Hall, New York.

_Monday, 9_.--Elders Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, Parley P. Pratt, Orson Pratt, George A. Smith, and Reuben Hedlock, sailed from New York on the _Patrick Henry_ for Liverpool.

_Fifth Letter of Elias Higbee to the Prophet--the Affairs of the
Saints at Washington_.

Washington, March 9th, 1840.

Dear Brother:--I expected, by this time, that we would be through
with our business, but the chairman of the committee gave notice
last week, he should call it [the committee's Report] up today
in the Senate; through Mr. Young's having gone to Philadelphia,
it will not be called up until his return, which will be on next
Thursday, according to the information that I have obtained
relative to this matter. If the resolution is passed, as annexed to
the Report, I shall get my papers and leave the city.

I have written some letters to Brother Rigdon, which it seems he
did not get. Brother Samuel Bennett writes that Brother Rigdon left
Philadelphia for the Jerseys on the 5th instant. He [Rigdon] stated
that he expects me to come there to go with him home, and that he
would write me soon on the subject. I shall write for him to make
the necessary arrangements. He says Dr. Ell's family left about a
week ago for Commerce. Also that the Church there numbers about one
hundred; and Parley P. Pratt, Orson Pratt, Brother Kimball, Brother
Brigham {95} Young, George A. Smith, and Brother Hedlock were to
sail from New York to England on the 7th instant.

As I have lately written several letters to you, I shall bid adieu,
not to write again until after the Senate acts upon our business.
Mr. Robinson says he has sent you a report; notwithstanding, I
shall enclose another for you.

I have changed my place of boarding in consequence of Mrs. Richey's
breaking up house-keeping, and going to Baltimore. I am busy here
at chimney corner preaching.

Yours as ever in the bonds of everlasting love,

Elias Higbee.

To President Joseph Smith, Jun., Commerce, Illinois.

P. S.--Lest my previous letters should not come to hand, I merely
say that I have been before the committee three days, and done all
in my power to effect the object of our mission; have spoken my
mind freely on the subject; and feel to have a conscience void of
offense towards God in this matter. The subscription of which the
report makes mention, was on condition that they could not lawfully
do anything for us; after examination we were to submit and wait
until the Great Disposer of human events shall adjust these things,
in that place where the wicked cease from troubling and the weary
are at rest (this I think is nearly the sentiment though perhaps
not the very words); and I for one hope and pray the time will
soon come when they will not trouble us in the west, as they have
hitherto done.

There is a man here on whom I occasionally call, who owns two
printing presses and much type, reading our books, I will with the
assistance of God, get him to come to the west as soon as possible
with his press, that you may set him to printing the truth. He told
me, if we had any printing to do, he would do it cheap, and even go
to the west if necessary.

Give my respects to Porter Rockwell, Dr. Foster, and also all the
household of faith.

E. H.

_Friday, 13_.--Jacob K. Potts and Levi Stilley made affidavit before William Oglesby, J. P., that they witnessed the massacre at Haun's mill on the 30th of October, 1838, confirming the statements already written in this History. Potts had two balls shot into his right leg.

_Sunday, 15_.--The High Council of the Church at Nauvoo voted that the First Presidency superintend the affairs of the ferry between Nauvoo and Montrose.

{96} _Monday, 16_.--Elder John Taylor wrote from Liverpool:

_Extract from Elder John Taylor's Letter--Affairs in British
Mission_.

I told you about our coming to Liverpool. The first time I preached
ten came forward [for baptism]. We have been baptizing since: last
week we baptized nine, we are to baptize tomorrow, but how many I
know not. The little stone is rolling forth. One of the brethren
dreamed he saw two men come to Liverpool; they cast a net into the
sea and pulled it out full of fishes: he was surprised to see them
pick the small fish out first and then the large. Well, if we get
all the fish I shall be satisfied.

Brother Woodruff has lately left the Potteries and has gone to
another neighborhood, and is making Methodist preachers scarce.
He baptized 32 persons in one week--13 of them were Methodist
preachers. Elder Clark is preaching and baptizing in and about
Manchester. The latest account from Elder Turley, he was well,
preaching and baptizing in the Potteries. Elder Willard Richards
is very busy at this period, in visiting and setting in order the
branches of the Church in Preston, Clithero, and all the regions
round about, and holding correspondence with the Elders abroad.

[Sidenote: Judge Elias Higbee's Course at Washington Approved.]

The High Council met at my house in Nauvoo, and resolved that Robert B. Thompson write a letter to Judge Higbee at Washington, approving his course and giving him certain names (for which see Thompson's letter), that he may order subpoenas for them as witnesses in the suit now before Congress, namely, the Latter-day Saints _versus_ the State of Missouri, for redress of grievances.

_Letter of R. B. Thompson to Elias Higbee, Announcing the Approval
of the Church Authorities of the Latter's Course at Washington_.

Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois,

March 17th, 1840.

_Elias Higbee, Esq_.

Dear And Honored Sir:--It is with the greatest pleasure I sit down
to write to you at this time, to inform you of the situation and
state of the Church as regards the object of your mission.

Since President Joseph Smith returned we have been favored with
several communications from you, giving a statement of the
proceedings before the committee, etc. On Monday evening last,
your letters were read to a large concourse of our brethren, and
other persons who were assembled to hear the same; and I must say
that the greatest satisfaction was manifested by the assembled
multitude, with the {97} noble stand and straightforward and
honorable course which you had pursued; and before the assembly
separated, a vote of thanks to you was unanimously agreed upon. I
can assure you that, from the feelings there, as well as upon other
occasions, [expressed] there is not only a disposition, but a fixed
determination, to uphold you in your righteous cause and sustain
you in your efforts to obtain redress for the injuries which the
Saints have borne from their unfeeling oppressors, and in bringing
their case before the authorities of the nation.

In the evening the High Council assembled at the house of President
Joseph Smith, Jun., and took your letters into consideration, when
it was unanimously resolved that a letter should be written to you
approving the measures which you were taking. The High Council
likewise send you a list of the names of such persons as they think
will testify to such facts as you want to substantiate. The names
are as follows:

Alanson Ripley,

Francis Higbee,

Lyman Wight,

Tarlton Lewis,

Edward Partridge,

Parley P. Pratt,

Thorit Parsons,

King Follett,

Isaac Laney,

Harvey Redfield,

Ellis Eames,

Chapman Duncan,

Smith Humphrey,

Erastus Snow,

John M. Burk,

Rebecca Judd,

Heber C. Kimball,

William Seyley,

Dr. Isaac Galland,

William Chapplin,

Ira Mills,

Oliver Olney,

Hyrum Smith,

Seymour Brunson,

Samuel Bent,

Porter Rockwell,

George A. Smith,

Stephen Markham,

Thomas Grover,

Amanda Smith,

Lyman Leonard,

Alma Smith,

Zebediah Robinson,

Orson Hyde,

Charles C. Rich,

Henry G. Sherwood,

Elias Smith,

Sidney Rigdon.

There probably may be others, who may occur to your mind, whom you
can send for if you think necessary. We should feel glad if you
had the assistance of Presidents Smith and Rigdon at this critical
time, while you have to contend with Jamieson, Linn [and others].
However I hope you will go forth in the strength of the Lord, and
that truth will prevail. And I would say, "Twice is he armed who
hath his quarrel just." The principles, sir, for which you contend
are true; they are principles of justice, of humanity, of the
Constitution, and the eternal principles of righteousness.

Although mankind may depart from those principles and be swayed
{98} by popular prejudices, and undue influences; yet at the same
time, that man who contends for the same, although he cannot
always carry his point, or convince at all times partial and
interested judges--the gem or light of truth may be darkened, and
its brilliancy for a while hid--yet when the Son of Righteousness
shall arise, and disperse the darkness and mist of superstition and
bigotry; when the true light shines, then shall it shine with all
its glorious splendor and shed forth its luster with a brilliancy
upon its advocates as shall altogether surpass the equipage and
glories of those who are now in power.

Robert B. Thompson.

_Letter of Horace R. Hotchkiss to Sidney Rigdon and Joseph Smith,
Jun.--Inquiring Concerning the Progress Made Before Congress_.

Fair Haven, March 17th, 1840.

_Reverends Sidney Rigdon and Joseph Smith, Jun_.:

Gentlemen:--I some time since addressed a letter to Mr. [Joseph]
Smith at Philadelphia, to which I have received no reply; and was
in that city two or three weeks ago, but not being able to hear
anything of Mr. Smith, I suppose he must of course have left; and
with the hope of still reaching you, I now send to Washington. I
should have written you long before, and indeed very often this
winter, but my health has been miserable; and since my return from
Philadelphia, I have been confined to my house.

I beg you to inform me how you are progressing with your petition
before Congress, and its probable result; whether you have any
friends in the House or in the Senate, who will bring forward your
case, and advocate it in sincerity, and persevere in your behalf
with skill and ability until something is accomplished. Milk and
water friends in Congress are good for nothing. They must be true,
have talents, be zealous, or else they will be detrimental rather
than advantageous to you.

Should you, gentlemen, and Judge Higbee, come as far east as this,
it will afford [me] much gratification to have you take up your
quarters at my house. I did intend to see you at Washington, but my
health will not now permit.

With much respect, yours,

Horace R. Hotchkiss.

_Sixth Letter of Elias Higbee to the Prophet--Affairs of the Saints
at Washington--Papers Withdrawn_.

Washington City, March 24th, 1840.

Dear Brother:--Our business is at last ended here. Yesterday
a resolution passed the Senate, that the committee should be
discharged; and that we might withdraw the accompanying papers,
which I have {99} done. I have also taken a copy of the memorial,
and want to be off for the west immediately. I have not gotten a
letter from President Rigdon, although I have frequently written
to him. I have received a letter from Brother Bennett, stating
that he was in the Jerseys, and that he was calculating to have me
come that way and go home with him; and also that he had business
which he wanted me to attend to at the office here. When he last
wrote, he stated that as yet he had no money to get home with, and
I hardly know what course to take in regard to the matter. If I do
not receive a letter in two or three days, I design leaving for
Philadelphia or the west.

There is one honest Quaker-looking sort of a man here, by the name
of William Green, (instead of John Green, as I stated in a letter
to Brother Robinson), who has two iron printing presses, with other
things necessary, that would come to Commerce, provided you could
find work for him, and inform him of the same. How much work there
is to do I know not; therefore merely write that if such a man and
establishment are wanted, you could easily obtain them, or would
know where they could be obtained. He believes as much in our
religion as any other, but not much in any.

Yours in the Lord,

Elias Higbee.

P.S.--I would just observe, that information has reached this
place, through some of the newspapers, that you have come out for
Harrison. It is said that the information came by some gentlemen
who obtained it from you, whilst in your company in passing through
the state of Indiana. Another paper states that 1,000 houses are to
be built in Commerce this season, which I hope is the truth.

I would just observe (on the subject of our business) I am sorry
Judge Young had not insisted on the motion to print our papers, as
it would have been opposed; then a speech from Clay and Mr. Preston
would have been brought forth, as I have since learned: but I think
it was a trick of the Missouri Senators to slide it along without
making a noise, by its going to the committee as it did. Judge
Young says he was anxious to have it brought before the committee,
but seemed disposed to let it slide along easily, rather than run
the risk of its being refused.

If he had let those speeches been made, almost every one would have
read them; which would have shamed Missouri, (if there is any shame
in her), and waked up the whole country, so that by another year
Congress would do something for us. But there is no need of crying
for spilt milk. I have done all I could in this matter, depending
on the good judgment of Judge Young to legislate for us to the best
advantage. I am inclined, however, to think if it was an error, it
was one of the head, and not of the heart.

{100} Mr. Hotchkiss, of Fair Haven, Connecticut, has addressed
a letter to yourself, Brother Rigdon and myself, which seems to
be written with much good feeling. He desires to know concerning
our business here, inviting us to make his house our home, should
we travel in that region. He writes that his health is very bad.
I have been talking with Mr. Steward concerning a memorial,
requesting him to bring it before the House; he has promised to
do so if he can. He says he will talk with some of the members
respecting it. I have answered Mr. Hotchkiss' letter this day, and
sent him the report of the committee.

E. H.

At this time the work of the Lord is spreading rapidly in the United States and England--Elders are traveling in almost every direction, and multitudes are being baptized.

_Letter of Horace R. Hotchkiss to Joseph Smith, Jun.--Offering
Tract of Land for Sale_.

Fair Haven, 1st April, 1840.

_Reverend Joseph Smith, Jun_.:

My Dear Sir:--After writing you at, and then going to,
Philadelphia, and not finding you, I addressed a letter to
Washington City, and received a reply from Judge Higbee, by which
I first learned of your return to Illinois; and at the same time
I got the committee's report upon your application to Congress
for redress of the outrages perpetrated upon your people by the
Missourians. I am not, I must confess, much disappointed in the
result; as I know the vacillating, fawning character of many in
both houses of Congress; and these are not their worst traits
either, for they not only lack the moral courage to do right, but
will do what they know to be positively wrong, if they can make
political capital by it; and will abandon you, me, or any one else,
with perfect indifference, and heartless treachery, if by doing it
they can obtain governmental favor, or political preferment. If we
should not put our faith in princes, it appears most emphatically
true that we should repose no confidence in politicians. The idea
conveyed in the report, that exact justice will be meted to you by
the judicial tribunals of Missouri, is too preposterous to require
comment. It is indeed a new doctrine, that we should apply to
robbers, or their supporters, to condemn themselves, to restore
the valuables they have stolen, and to betray each other for the
murders they have committed.

I do not believe (though I am sorry to say it) that you will
ever receive a just or honorable remuneration for your losses of
property, or {101} any reparation for the personal indignities,
privations and sufferings which your people have sustained in
Missouri. The greatest reliance you have for regaining your
wealth is in the honorable conduct of your people--their pure
morals--their correct habits--their indefatigable industry--their
untiring perseverance--and their well-directed enterprise. These
constitute a capital which can never be shaken by man, and form
the basis of all that is great in commercial influence, or in the
attainment of pecuniary power.

Judge Higbee informs me that Mr. Rigdon is probably in New Jersey.
It would have afforded me much pleasure to have seen you all at my
house, and it was my intention to spend some time at Washington
while you were there; but my health has been so very infirm, that
it has prevented me from executing nearly all the arrangements I
had proposed for myself for the last eight months.

Knowing the additions constantly joining your society, it has
occurred to me that some of them may be unprovided with farming
lands, and I mention at this time, that I am interested in a tract
of about 12,000 acres of very choice lands, consisting of timber
and prairie, fifteen or twenty miles from Springfield, upon which
Mr. Gillett and several other families are settled and cultivating
most excellent farms. It is one of the best neighborhoods in the
state.

I do not know what my co-partners in this tract would say about
disposing of what remains unsold of the tract, (say eight to nine
thousand acres,) but I should be disposed to sell upon reasonable
terms, provided from twenty to forty families, valuable for their
prudence, industry, and good habits, from your society, can be
found to form a small colony of practical farmers. I am also
interested with the same gentlemen in lands near Rock River,
in Henry and Mercer counties, and believe this would, on many
accounts, be another extremely desirable place or location for a
colony of your people. I have said nothing to those owning with
me relative to this subject, but suppose they would be governed
materially by two considerations; namely, the characters of the
purchasers, and the fact of their being actual settlers or not.

If you think two small colonies of the right sort can be formed
from your society, you will oblige by informing me at your
earliest opportunity. The price of the balance in the tract near
Springfield, including an average proportion of timber, and an
average proportion of prairie, I should think $4.50 per acre. None
of the prairie alone has been sold for less than three dollars, and
some at three and a half; and I am confident that four and a half
dollars for timber and prairie is very low, and especially as a
credit, except for a small amount, would be extended to purchasers.
The other tract is nearly all prairie, but the finest selection of
that region. It is probably worth three and a half dollars per acre.

{102} As my paper is out, I have only room to request my respects
presented to all friends at Commerce. I beg you to tell the editor
of the _Times and Seasons_, that as soon as my health allows me to
go to the bank, I shall send him $10.

Your obedient servant,

Horace R. Hotchkiss.

_Letter of Sidney Rigdon to the Prophet_.

At James Ivans', New Jersey,

April 3rd, 1840.

_Brother Joseph Smith, Jun_.

Dear Sir:--I thought I would occupy a portion of this morning in
writing to you. By a letter received from Brother Higbee yesterday,
I have learned that the Senate has decided that they have no
constitutional right to interfere in the case between us and the
people of Missouri; and refer us to the courts for redress; either
those of Missouri or the United States. Now I am confident, that
there is but one person in Missouri that we can sue with safety,
and that is Boggs, and he is known to be a bankrupt, and unable to
pay his debts; that if we should sue him, we will have the cost to
pay, as he has nothing to pay it with. We are therefore left to
bear the loss without redress, at present.

Judge Higbee is on the way home, and has been for ten days. He
obtained money from Judge Young, to what amount I cannot say, but
he will be able to tell you when he gets home. The Judge continues
his friendship, and is ready to accommodate with money, whenever
called for. Surely he is a friend indeed, and ought never to be
forgotten.

I am up to this time without means to get home, but I have no
uneasiness about it. I shall doubtless get means as soon as my
health will admit of my going. My health is slowly improving, and I
think if I have no relapse, I will be able to leave for home some
time in the month of May, &c.

Sidney Rigdon.

[Sidenote: Arrival of Brigham Young and Associates in England.]

_Monday, April 6_.--Elders Young, Kimball, Pratt, Smith, and Hedlock landed in Liverpool, on the first day of the eleventh year of the Church, after a tedious passage of twenty-eight days, during sixteen of which they encountered head winds, and one severe storm of three or four days; and a great portion of the time the decks were covered {103} with water--all of which tended to increase sea-sickness and suffering.

At the time of sailing President Young's and Elder Kimball's health was very poor. George A. Smith had the ague for six days in succession. When the ship left her moorings the shore resounded with the songs of the Saints, who had come down to bid them farewell; they unitedly sang "The gallant ship is under weigh," [2] until {104} out of hearing. The brethren occupied three berths in the forecastle, taking what was called a steerage passage. With the exception of Elder Kimball, not one of them had ever been to sea, and the sailors called them "land lubbers." The ship being loaded with flour and cotton, they were packed in a small compartment with about 100 or 120 passengers, being a motley mixture of English, Welsh, Irish, and Scotch, who were returning home from America to visit their friends, or had got sick of "Yankeedom" and were leaving for "sweet home."

They had scarcely been at sea twelve hours before the whole of them were prostrated by sea-sickness. George A. Smith vomited up his ague. [3] Brother Brigham Young, although confined to his berth by sea-sickness during the entire journey, was unable to vomit.

On coming into the Mersey the ship cast anchor in order to wait for the tide, when a small boat put off from the shore. Brothers Young, Kimball, and Parley P. Pratt went in it to the landing. On reaching the quay, Brother Young shouted hosannah three times, which he had promised to do whenever he should land on the shores of Old England. The brethren then went to No. 8 Union Street, Liverpool, where they procured bread and wine in order to partake of the Sacrament.

Elders Orson Pratt and George A. Smith, and Reuben Hedlock stayed on board to look after the baggage. About {105} three p. m., Brother Young sent a small boat for them, and the boatmen piloted them to the same place, where they all met together, partook of the Sacrament, and returned thanks for their safe deliverance.

When they landed they were almost penniless. Two or three of them had sufficient to buy hats for those who needed them the worst.

_Minutes of the General Conference of the Church_.

At a General Conference of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints, held in Nauvoo, Hancock County, Illinois, on the sixth day
of April, A.D. 1840, agreeable to previous appointment, Joseph
Smith, Jun., was called upon to preside over the meeting, and
Robert B. Thompson was chosen clerk.

The Conference was then opened by prayer by Elder John E. Page.

The President rose, made some observations on the business of the
Conference, exhorted the brethren who had charges to make against
individuals, and made some very appropriate remarks respecting
the pulling the beam out of their own eye, that they may see more
clearly the mote which was in their brother's eye.

A letter was read from presidents of the Seventies, wishing for
an explanation of the steps, which the High Council had taken, in
removing Elder F. G. Bishop from the quorum of the Seventies to
that of the High Priests, without any other ordination than he had
when in the Seventies, and wished to know whether those ordained
into the Seventies at the same time F. G. Bishop was, had a right
to the High Priesthood, [4] or not. After observations on the case
by different individuals, the president gave a statement of the
authority of the Seventies, and stated that they were Elders and
not High Priests, and consequently Brother F. G. Bishop had no
claim to that office. It was then unanimously resolved that Elder
F. G. Bishop be placed back again into the quorum of the Seventies.

On motion, resolved that the Conference adjourn until two o'clock.

Conference met pursuant to adjournment. Prayer by Elder Joseph
Young.

Elder Thomas Grover presented charges against Brother D. W. Rogers
for compiling a hymn-book, and selling it as the one compiled and
published by Sister Emma Smith; secondly, for writing a private
letter to New York City, casting reflections on the character of
Elder John P. Greene; and thirdly, for administering medicine
unskilfully, which had a bad effect.

{106} On motion, resolved, that, as Brother Rogers is not present,
his case be laid over until tomorrow.

Elder John Lawson then came forward and stated, that in consequence
of some difficulty existing in the branch of the Church where
he resided, respecting the Word of Wisdom, fellowship had been
withdrawn from him, and also from Brother Thomas S. Edwards. After
hearing the particulars, on motion, resolved, that John Lawson and
Thomas S. Edwards be restored to fellowship.

Elder Orson Hyde addressed the Conference at some length, and
stated that it had been prophesied, some years ago, that he had
a great work to perform among the Jews; and that he had recently
been moved upon by the Spirit of the Lord to visit that people, and
gather up all the information he could respecting their movements,
expectations, &c., and communicate the same to this Church, and to
the nation at large; stating that he intended to visit the Jews in
New York, London, and Amsterdam, and then visit Constantinople and
the Holy Land.

On motion, resolved, that Elder Orson Hyde proceed on his mission
to the Jews, and that letters of recommendation be given him,
signed by the President and Clerk of the Conference.

Elder John E. Page then arose, and spoke with much force on the
subject of Elder Hyde's mission, the gathering of the Jews, and
the restoration of the house of Israel; proving, in a brief but
convincing manner, from the Bible, Book of Mormon, and the Book of
Doctrine and Covenants, that these things must take place, and that
the time had nearly arrived for their accomplishment.

Adjourned until tomorrow morning, nine o'clock.

_Tuesday morning, April 7_.

Conference met pursuant to adjournment. A hymn was sung by the
choir, and the throne of grace was addressed by Elder Caleb Baldwin.

Brother D. W. Rogers' case was then called up, and after many
observations and explanations, it was on motion resolved, that D.
W. Rogers be forgiven, and the hand of fellowship be continued
towards him.

Conference adjourned for one hour, and met pursuant to adjournment.
A hymn was sung by the choir, followed by prayer by Elder Reynolds
Cahoon.

The President called upon the Clerk to read the report of the First
Presidency and High Council, with regard to their proceedings in
purchasing lands, and securing a place of gathering for the Saints.
The report having been read, the President made some observations
respecting the pecuniary affairs of the Church, and requested the
brethren to step forward, and assist in liquidating the debts on
the town plot, so that the poor might have an inheritance.

{107} The President then gave an account of their mission to
Washington City, the treatment they received, and the action of the
Senate on the Memorial which was presented before them. The meeting
then called for the reading of the Memorial, and the report of the
Committee on Judiciary, to whom the same was referred, which were
read.

On motion, resolved that a committee of five be appointed to draft
resolutions expressive of the sentiments of this Conference in
reference to the report. On motion it was resolved, that Robert
D. Foster, Orson Hyde, John E. Page, Joseph Wood, and Robert B.
Thompson compose said committee, and report to this Conference.

Resolved, that this meeting adjourn until tomorrow morning.

_Wednesday morning, April 8_.

Conference met pursuant to adjournment. A number were confirmed who
had been baptized the previous evening. Prayer by Elder Marks.

The Committee appointed to draft resolutions on the report of the
Senate Committee of the Judiciary were then called upon to make
their report. Robert B. Thompson of the Committee then read the

_Resolutions_:

Whereas, we learn, with deep sorrow, regret, and disappointment,
that the Committee on the Judiciary to whom was referred the
Memorial of the members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day
Saints (commonly called "Mormons"), complaining of the grievances
suffered by them in the state of Missouri, have reported
unfavorably to our cause, to justice, and humanity;

_Therefore Resolved 1st_: That we consider the report of the
Committee on Judiciary, unconstitutional, and subversive to the
rights of a free people, and justly calls for the disapprobation
of all the supporters and lovers of good government and republican
principles.

_Resolved, 2ndly_: That the Committee state, in their report,
that our Memorial _aggravates_ the case of our oppressors, and at
the same time say, that they have not examined into the truth or
falsehood of the facts mentioned in said Memorial.

_Resolved, 3rdly_: That the Memorial does not aggravate the conduct
of our oppressors, as every statement set forth in said Memorial
was substantiated by indubitable testimony; therefore we consider
the statements of the Committee, in regard to that part, as false
and ungenerous.

_Resolved, 4thly_: That that part of the report referring us to
the justice and magnanimity of the state of Missouri for redress,
we deem it a great insult to our good sense, better judgment, and
intelligence, when numerous affidavits, which were laid before
the Committee, prove that we could only go into the state of
Missouri contrary to the exterminating order of the Governor, and
consequently at the risk of our lives.

{108} _Resolved, 5thly_: That after repeated appeals to the
constituted authorities of the state of Missouri for redress, which
were in vain, we fondly hoped that in the Congress of the United
States, ample justice would have been rendered us; and upon that
consideration alone, we pledged ourselves to abide their decision.

_Resolved, 6thly_: That the exterminating order of Governor Boggs
is a direct infraction of the Constitution of the United States,
and of the state of Missouri; and the committee in refusing to
investigate the proceedings of the Executive and others of the
state of Missouri, and turning a deaf ear to the cries of widows,
orphans, and innocent blood, we deem no less than seconding the
proceeding of that murderous clan, whose deeds are recorded in
heaven, and justly call down upon their heads the righteous
judgments of an offended God.

_Resolved, 7thly_: That the thanks of this meeting be tendered to
the citizens of the state of Illinois, for their kind, liberal, and
generous conduct towards us; and that we call upon them, as well
as every patriot in this vast Republic, to aid us in all lawful
endeavors to obtain redress for the injuries we have sustained.

_Resolved, 8thly_: That the thanks of this meeting be tendered
to the delegation of Illinois, for the bold, manly, noble, and
independent course they have taken in presenting our case before
the nation, amid misrepresentation, contumely, and abuse, which
were heaped upon us in our suffering condition.

_Resolved, 9thly_: That the thanks of this meeting be tendered to
Governor Carlin of Illinois, Governor Lucas of Iowa Territory, for
their sympathy, aid, and protection; and to all other honorable
gentlemen who have assisted us in our endeavors to obtain redress.

_Resolved, 10thly_: That Joseph Smith, Jun., Sidney Rigdon, and
Elias Higbee, the Delegates appointed by this Church to visit
the City of Washington, to present our sufferings before the
authorities of the nation, be tendered the thanks of this meeting
for the prompt and efficient manner in which they have discharged
their duty; and that they be requested, in behalf of the Church
of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints throughout the world, to
continue to use their endeavors to obtain redress for a suffering
people. And if all hopes of obtaining satisfaction for the injuries
done us be entirely blasted, that they then appeal our case to
the Court of Heaven, believing that the Great Jehovah, who rules
over the destiny of nations, and who notices the falling sparrows,
will undoubtedly redress our wrongs, and ere long avenge us of our
adversaries. [5]

On motion, _Resolved_, That the report of the committee on the
Judiciary, {109} as well as the foregoing Preamble and Resolutions,
be published in the Quincy papers.

On motion, _Resolved_, That a committee of three be appointed to
investigate the recommendations of those persons who wish to obtain
an ordination to the ministry, and ordain such as are thought
worthy; and that Elders Bent, Wood, and Hyde compose said committee.

_Resolved_, That this meeting feel satisfied with the proceeding of
the Presidency with regard to the sales of town property, &c., and
that they are requested to continue in their agency.

_Resolved_, That this meeting adjourn for one hour.

Conference met pursuant to adjournment.

After singing the President arose and read the 3rd chapter of
John's Gospel, after which, prayer was offered by Elder Erastus
Snow.

The President commenced making observations on the different
subjects embraced in the chapter [previously read] particularly the
3rd, 4th, and 5th verses, illustrating them with a very beautiful
and striking figure, and throwing a flood of light on the subjects
brought up to review. He then spoke to the Elders respecting their
mission, and advised those who went into the world to preach the
Gospel, to leave their families provided with the necessaries
of life; and to teach the gathering as set forth in the Holy
Scripture. That it had been wisdom for the most of the Church
to keep on this side of the river, that a foundation might be
established in this place; but that now it was the privilege of the
Saints to occupy the lands in Iowa, or wherever the Spirit might
lead them. That he did not wish to have any political influence,
but wished the Saints to use their political franchise to the best
of their knowledge.

He then stated that since Elder Hyde had been appointed to visit
the Jews, he had felt an impression that it would be well for Elder
John E. Page to accompany him on his mission. It was resolved that
Elder John E. Page be appointed to accompany Elder Orson Hyde on
his mission, and that he have proper credentials given him.

It was then resolved, that as a great part of the time of the
Conference had been taken up with charges against individuals,
which might have been settled by the different authorities of
the Church, that in future no such cases be brought before the
Conferences.

The Committee on ordinations reported that they had ordained
thirty-one persons to be Elders in the Church, who were ordained
under the hands of Alpheus Gifford [6] and Stephen Perry, which
report was accepted.

{110} Fredrick G. Williams presented himself on the stand, and
humbly asked forgiveness for his conduct, [while in Missouri], and
expressed his determination to do the will of God in the future.
His case was presented to the Conference by President Hyrum Smith,
when it was unanimously

_Resolved_,

That Fredrick G. Williams be forgiven, and be received into the
fellowship of the Church.

It was reported that seventy-five persons had been baptized during
the Conference, and that upwards of fifty had been received into
the quorum of Seventies.

President Hyrum Smith dismissed the assembly. After he had made a
few observations, the Conference was closed, under the blessings of
the Presidency, until the first Friday in October next.

Joseph Smith, Jun.,

President.

Footnotes:

1. This is the record of a very important action. The law of consecration and stewardship, with which the action deals, was given to the church by revelation (Doc. and Cov. sec. xlii). Its fundamental principle is the recognition of God as the possessor of all things, the earth and the fullness thereof. It is His by right of proprietorship. He created it and sustains it by His power. This recognized, it follows that whatsoever man possesses in it, he holds as a stewardship merely. These principles the Saints were called upon to recognize and act under in the establishment of Zion in Missouri; and apparently the Saints in Iowa were disposed to undertake the same order of things in the settlement they were then making, until stopped by the Prophet. The action of the Prophet in this instance demonstrates the elasticity in church government, and law. The Lord, who commanded to move forward, may also command a halt. He who said take neither purse nor scrip when going to preach the Gospel (Matt. x:10) may later say, under other circumstances, "He that hath a purse let him take it, and likewise his scrip" (Luke xxii:35, 36). So, too, in other matters. The Lord commanded the colony of Lehi that there should no man among them "have save it be but one wife, and concubines ye shall have none;" yet reserved the right to command His people otherwise should the accomplishment of His purposes require it. (Book of Mormon, Jacob ii:24-30.)

2. The hymn was composed by W. W. Phelps, and is worthy of reproduction in extenso.

The gallant ship is under weigh
To bear me off to sea,
And yonder floats the streamer gay
That says she waits for me.
The seamen dip the ready oar,
As rippled waves oft tell,
They bear me swiftly from the shore:
My native land, farewell!

I go, not to plough the main,
To ease a restless mind,
Nor yet to toil on battle's plain,
The victor's wreath to find.
'Tis not for treasures that are hid
In mountain or in dell,
'Tis not for joys like these I bid
My native land, farewell!

I go to break the fowler's snare,
To gather Israel home;
I go the name of Christ to bear
In lands and isles unknown.
And soon my pilgrim feet shall tread
On land where errors dwell,
Whence light and truth have long since fled,
My native land, farewell!

I go, an erring child of dust,
Ten thousand foes among,
Yet on His mighty arm I trust.
Who makes the feeble strong.
My sun, my shield, forever nigh.
He will my fears dispel,
This hope supports me when I sigh,
My native land, farewell!

I go devoted to His cause,
And to His will resigned;
His presence will supply the loss
Of all I leave behind.
His promise cheers the sinking heart
And lights the darkest cell,
To exiled pilgrims grace imparts;
My native land, farewell!

I go, it is my Master's call,
He's made my duty plain,
No danger can the heart appall
When Jesus stoops to reign.
And now the vessel's side we've made,
The sails their bosoms swell.
Thy beauties in the distance fade,
My native land, farewell!

3. It is said that he never had the ague afterwards.

4. To the office of High Priest is what is meant; Seventies, of course, hold the Melchisedek or High Priesthood.

5. See Introduction to Volume III History of the Church, where retribution on Missouri is considered at length.

6. Alpheus Gifford was born in Adams township, Berkshire County, Massachusetts, August 28, 1793. At the age of eighteen, having scarcely sufficient learning to enable him to read the Bible, he commenced preaching the Gospel, not for hire, but for the salvation of souls. In 1817, he married Anna Nash, who bore him seven sons and three daughters. In the spring of 1831, hearing of the doctrines taught by Joseph Smith he made diligent inquiry and found they were scriptural and was baptized and ordained a priest; he brought home five books of Mormon which he distributed among his friends; he was then living in Tioga County, Pennsylvania. Soon after he went to Kirtland, Ohio, to see the Prophet Joseph Smith and the brethren, when he was ordained an elder; he was accompanied by his brother Levi, Elial Strong, Eleazer Miller, Enos Curtis, and Abraham Brown, who were baptized. On returning to Pennsylvania he preached and baptized many, among whom was Heber C. Kimball. The gifts of the Gospel were enjoyed by many, signs followed those who believed; devils were cast out; the sick were healed; many prophesied; some spake with new tongues; while others interpreted the same. Mr. Calvin Gilmour, with whom Brother Gifford had previously been associated in preaching, heard him speak in tongues and interpret. Gilmour declared he understood the languages and that they were interpreted correctly, and that he knew Gifford had no classical learning; but that he would rather be damned than believe in Mormonism.

In June 1832, Brother Gifford started for Missouri; traveled to Cincinnati and wintered there with a few saints who bad been baptized by Lyman Wight. He arrived in Jackson county, Missouri, in March, 1833, where he preached extensively; he was driven with the Saints from that county in the fall of that year. He removed to Clay county, enduring the persecution incident upon settling in, and final expulsion from, the same. He went to Kirtland, Ohio, and attended the dedication of the Temple and received the ordinances there administered. He returned to Missouri and was driven with the Saints to Far West, Caldwell county. In the winter of 1839, he was driven from Missouri. He located in the Morley settlement near Lima, Illinois, and subsequently five miles above Nauvoo, where he died December 25, 1841. (_Addenda_, Ms. Church History, Book "C" 2. Also page 404.)

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