CowderyOliver

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Letters of Oliver Cowdery[Note: Originals are available at Henry E. Huntington Library and Art Gallery, San Marino, California, and/or are reproduced in Stanley R. Gunn, Oliver Cowdery: Second Elder and Scribe (Salt Lake City: Bookcraft, 1962).]Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.1 - p.31 Copy of a letter to Warren A. Cowdery of Freedom,2 Cataraugus County, New York, dated3 Kirtland Mills, Ohio October 30, 1833.4 Dear brother Warren:5 I remember the obligation I am under to6 address you, (though in a hasty manner) on my arrival in this place.7 My journey was not as speedy as I could have wished, but I8 thank the Great dispenser of all good, that in his providence a9 special care was not lacking toward me to bring me safely to10 the bosom of our relatives here, all of whom I found enjoying11 usual health.12 I delivered your letter to our parents and saluted them in13 your name, &c. Brother Rich and wife regretted the loss of a visit14 from you and sister Patience, when I related the circumstance15 of your arrival soon after departure.16 Nothing extraordinary occurred on my journey after leav-17 ing your house. I found my press, &c. in Buffalo, but18 when they will arrive here, to me is uncertain, that will19 probably depend upon the favorableness of the weather.20 So, consequently it is uncertain when we shall21 be able to issue a paper, but we hope soon.22 Brother Green is in this place, and requests me to say23 for him that his family are well, &c. and that per-24 haps he may be permitted to visit you next spring,25 if the Lord will.26 Perhaps I should not do justice to the cause of re-27 ligion, were I to let this opportunity pass without say-28 ing a few words on that subject, as it is my depen-29 dence for happiness hereafter. I mean when this earthly30 house of my tabernacle shall be desolved. Perhaps my

31 appearance before you was not a grave, or solemn32 as you could have expected, considering my profession33 (a thought which occupied my mind several times34 while I was at your house) but the joy and gratitude35 which filled my heart on the reflection of the peculiar36 providences of God, in sparing me to see you once37 more, and the many perils which I had been called to1 pass through, without an explanation, to one unac-2 quainted, might, perhaps, prove a matter of as-3 tonishment, but with you I trust, these things4 are excusable.5 You must know bro. Warren, that as a conscien-6 tious man before God, having been favored so7 highly in the sight of him, (though by me unmerited)8 that peculiar anxieties press upon my mind for9 the welfare of my relatives, though I admit, "That10 a prophet is not without honor save in his own11 country and among his own friends." Though I do12 not make this quotation because I was treated13 with any disrespect while at your house, for I14 can, should I never be permitted again to see you15 in this state of existance, carry the pleasing remem-16 brance, even to the time of my disolution, of17 the kindness manifested on you toward me, for18 which I am greatful to the Father of my Spirit.19 You will redily admit that no extraordinary20 communication was ever made from heaven to man-21 kind, without an extraordinary purpose, and that God22 always values his word to that degree, that every23 whit of it in its bearing has a tendency in a great-24 er or less degree to happify his creatures, if duely ap-25 preciated by them, but man is not to live by bread26 alone, but by every word that proceeds from his27 mouth.28 You may, however, question the propriety of more29 revelations in these last days, and say, or think, that30 the book of Mormon is wholy superfluous, in con-31 sequence of the abundance of revelations previously32 put into our hands. But as time will not allow33 me to discuss this subject at the present, I for-34 bare, being in great haste, being conscious35 however, that your own judgment, when brought1 to bear, will find a propriety and a beauty, now in this age of2 strife and contention, in the idea of something being given3 to set aside cavilings and strifes on the all-important4 subject of man's salvation.

5 You no doubt, will admit, that God's creatures at this age are6 as near to him as at any other, and that in consequence7 of his unchangeable loving kindness, he will, or must8 stoop, and regard the cries and answer the prayers of the9 children of men the same in all ages of the world alike,10 if address to him in the same faith.11 And that he could not be an unchangeable be-12 ing were he to condescend to speak from the heavens to13 the ancients, and grant them unspeakable blessings14 when they approached him in a proper manner, and15 at this, or any other age refuse so to do when approa-16 ched in the same way by the creatures of his own forming.17 I would consider it reproaching the character of Him whose18 loving kindness endures forever and his memorial to all19 generations, were I to admit for a moment, that his20 saints have not the same claim upon his goodness21 now, that they ever had, and might not with the same22 holiness of heart obtain the same assurance of eter-23 nal life!24 I hope that I shall hear from you soon partic-25 ularly upon this subject, as I have no doubt of your deep26 interest in the cuase of God, nor of your willingness27 to express your feelings on the same.28 Excuse my haste, and accept assurance of unfeign-29 ed esteem from your brother. Oliver30 P.S. I have heard from my wife, she is well, and a31 prospect of or probability of her coming to Ohio this32 season. My respects to Patience and family, & brother33 Howlet & Sister Sally, and friend Hyde and family. OliverLetters of Oliver Cowdery, p.4 - p.51 Copy of a letter to Ambrose Palmer, of New Portage,2 Medina County, Ohio, dated Oct. 30, 1833.3 Kirtland Mills, Geavga Co. Ohio4 Dear brother, I arrived here a few days since, af-5 ter an abscence of twenty six days, during which6 time I enjoyed good health and a measure of the7 Spirit of the Lord, for which I am greatful to him.8 I purchased a press and types, all of which had arrived9 at Buffalo when I left that place: when they will10 arrive here is uncertain to us, as that depends upon11 the providence of our heavenly Father.12 If however, his providences are favorable, they will13 arrive in a few days undoubtedly, but with the14 necessary preparation it will be December be-15 fore we can issue a paper. We wish you would obtain16 for us what subscriptions you can, and forward either by letter

17 or by some one of the brethren; by the former if no opportunity18 of the latter occurs, as it will assist us in the purchase of paper19 to commence business.20 We intend with the blessing of the Lord, & the prayer of the21 saints to have the "Star" enriched with valuable information22 from the churches, as we shall be favored with reports from the23 elders, as well as essays upon Doctrine, and scripture, the signs of24 the times &c.25 We trust through the blessing of the Lord, that such a public-26 ation will not be uninteresting to the saints and that from them we27 may receive support sufficient to defray the subsequent expense28 of the same.29 We do not seek, neither desire self aggrandisement; we only ask30 for ourselves the common comforts of life, and our bread, which31 we are willing to obtain by the sweat of the brow, and all our32 labors we are willing to consecrate to the service of the Lord33 (and he knows the integrity of our hearts,) in the advancement34 of his cause, wherever he shall appoint our station in his35 kingdom.36 Since my arrival bro. Lyman Johnson has informed37 me that bro. Keeler has a son whom he wishes us to give1 employ in the printing business. We wish you to inform him that2 with our present expectations it would be impracticable, in consequence3 of our previous arrangements. We have written for one of our former4 apprentices from Zion, and also expect a brother Young whom we have5 promised to give employ. These with our other help will be suf-6 ficient: and should we be disappointed in either of these, the time7 will be so long before we can be ready to commence our bu-8 siness that it would not be just to detain his son on suspense9 from employ.10 We hope that our bro. Keeler will excuse us on this point, and in-11 deed we have no hesitancy in concluding that he will. Should oppor-12 tunity present, his son may have a situation in our office here-13 after, but one item may be appropriate to notice here, that14 we should expect none will be employed by us, but such as are so-15 ber and circumspect in their habits of life. Bro. Keeler has16 a deep interest in our prayers and we do not doubt his anxi-17 ety for his children.18 Bro. Joseph & Sidney are at present on a mission to the19 east and north, but are expected soon. It is a general time of20 health here. The advance of the season has necessarily hindered21 the completion of the house of the Lord, but we trust the la-22 bor will be resumed again in the opening of the spring with more rapidity.23 We ask an interest in the prayers of all the saints, & to be re-24 membered in love to them.25 The great hurry of business renders it impossible to em-

26 ploy time in a long communication, so I close believing you27 will excuse my imperfections & haste.28 I remain your brother in the Lord.29 (Signed) Oliver CowderyLetters of Oliver Cowdery, p.6 - p.8 (SAME AS p.1 - p.3)1 Copy of a letter written by Oliver Cowdery to his brother Warren A.2 Cowdery of Freedom, Cataraugus County, N.Y.3 Dated Kirtland Mills, Ohio, October 30, 1933.4 Dear brother Warren:5 I remember the obligation I am under to address you, (though6 in a hasty manner) on my arrival in this place. My journey was not as7 speedy as I could have wished, but I thank the great Dispenser of all good8 that in his providence a special care was not lacking toward me to bring9 me safely to the bosom of our relatives here, all of whom I found enjoying10 usual health. I delivered your letter to our parents and saluted them11 in your name and family &c. Bro. Rich and wife regretted the loss12 of a visit from you and sister Patience, when I related the circumstance13 of your arrival soon after their departure.14 Nothing extraordinary occurred on my journey after leaving your15 house. I found my press, &c. in Buffalo, but when they will be16 received here to me is uncertain; that will probably depend on the fav-17 orableness of the weather. So consequently it is uncertain when we18 shall be able to issue a paper; but we hope soon.19 Brother Green is in this place, & requests me to say for him20 that his family are well &c. and that perhaps he may be permitted21 to visit you next spring, if the Lord will.22 Perhaps I should not do justice to the cause of religion, were I to let23 this opportunity pass without saying a few words on that subject, as24 it is my dependence for happiness hereafter; I mean when this earthly25 house of my tabernacle shall be dissolved. Perhaps my appearance26 before you was not as grave, or solemn as you could have expected27 considering my profession; (a thought which occurred to my mind28 several times while I was at your house;) but the joy & gratitude29 which filled my heart on the reflection of the peculiar providence30 of God in sparing me to see you once more, and the many perils31 which I had been called to pass through, without an explan-32 ation to one unacquainted, might, perhaps, prove a matter of aston-33 ishment; but with you, I trust these things are excusable. You34 must know, brother Warren, that as a consciencious man before God1 having been favored so highly in the sight of him, (though by me unmerited)2 that peculiar anxieties press upon my mind for the welfare of my relatives,3 though I admit, "that a Prophet is not without honor save in his own country4 and among his own friends." Though I do not make this quotation because I was5 treated with any disrespect while at your house: for I can, should I never be6 permitted again to see you in this state of existence, carry the pleasing remem-7 brance, even to the time of my disolution, of the kindness manifested on your

8 part toward me, for which I am greatful to the Father of my spirit. You will9 readily admit that no extraordinary communication was ever made from heaven to10 mankind, without an extraordinary purpose, and that God always values his11 word to that degree, that every whit of it in its bearing has a tendency in a12 greater or less degree to happify his creatures if duly appreciated by them, because13 man is not to live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from his mouth.14 You may, however, question the propriety of more revelations in these last days, &15 say, or think that the book of Mormon is wholly superfluous, in consequence of the16 abundance of revelation previously put into our hands; but as time will not allow17 me to further discuss this subject at the present I forbear, being in great haste,18 being conscious however, that your own judgment when brought to bear will19 find a propriety & a beauty, now in this age of strife & contention, in the idea20 of something being given to set aside cavilings & strifes on the all important21 subject of man's salvation. You, no doubt, will admit that God's creatures22 at this age are as near to him as at any other, and that in consequence of his23 unchangeable loving kindness he will, or must stoop, and regard the cries and24 answer the prayers of the children of men the same in all ages of the world25 alike, if addressed to him in the same faith. And that he could not be an26 unchangeable being were he to condescend to speak from the heavens to the ancients, and27 grant them unspeakable blessings when they approached him in a proper manner, & at this,28 or any other age refuse so to do when approached in the same way by the creatures of his29 own forming. I would consider it reproaching the character of Him whose loving30 kindness endures forever, & his memorial to all generations, were I to admit for a moment,31 that his saints had not the same claim upon his goodness now, that they ever have, and32 might not with the same holiness of heart obtain the same assurance of eternal life.33 I hope that I shall hear from you soon particularly upon this subject,34 as I have no doubt of your deep interest in the cause of God, nor of your35 willingness to express your feelings on the same. Excuse my haste, and1 accept assurances of unfeigned esteem from your brother2 Oliver.3 P.S. I have heard from my wife; she is well and a prospect or4 probability of her coming to Ohio this season. My respects to Patience and5 family: To brother Howlet & sister Sally, and friend Hyde & family.6 O.7 ___________________________

Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.8 - p.9 (SAME AS p.4 - p.5)8 Copy of a letter from Oliver Cowdery to Ambrose Palmer of New Portage,9 Medina County, Ohio: Dated, Kirtland Mills, October 30, 1833.10 Dear brother:11 I arrived here a few days since after an abscence of twenty-12 six days, during which time I enjoyed good health & a measure of the Spirit13 of the Lord, for which I am greatful to him.14 I purchased a Press & Types, all of which had arrived at Buffalo when15 I left that place; when they will arrive here is uncertain to us, as that16 depends upon the providences of our Heavenly Father. If however his17 providences are favorable, they will arrive in a few days undoubtedly; but with18 the necessary preparations it will be December before we can issue a19 paper. We wish you would obtain for us what subscriptions you can &20 forward either by letter or by some one of the brethren; by the former21 if no opportunity of the latter occurs, as it will assist us in the purchase22 of paper to commence business.23 We intend, with the blessing of the Lord & the prayers of the Saints, to have24 the "Star" enriched with valuable information from the churches, as we shall be25 favored with the reports from the Elders, as well as Essays upon doctrine, &26 scripture, the signs of the times, &c.27 We trust through the blessing of the Lord, that such a Publication28 will not be uninteresting to the Saints & that from them we may receive29 support sufficient to defray the subsequent expense of the same.30 We do not seek, neither desire self aggrandizement; we only ask for31 ourselves the common comforts of life, & our bread, which we are willing32 to obtain by the sweat of the brow; & all our labors we are willing to consecrate33 to the service of the Lord, (& he knows the integrity of our hearts) in the advan-34 cement of his cause, wherever he shall appoint our station in his Kingdom.35 Since my arrival bro. Lyman Johnson has informed me that bro. Keeler1 has a son whom he wishes us to give employ in the printing business. We wish2 you to inform him, that with our present expectations it would be impracticable,3 in consequence of our previous arrangements. We have written for one of our former4 apprentices from Zion: and also expect a brother Young whom we have promised to give5 employ. These with our other help will be sufficient for the present: and should6 we be disappointed in either of these the time will be so long before we can be7 ready to commence our business that it would not be just for us to detain his8 son on suspense from employ. We hope that our bro. Keeler will excuse us on9 this point, and indeed we have no hesitancy in concluding that he will. Should10 opportunity present, his son may have a situation in our office hereafter, but one item11 may be appropriate to notice here, that we shall expect none will be employed by us,12 but such as are sober and circumspect in their habits of life. Bro. Keeler has a

deep13 interest in our prayers, and we do not doubt his anxiety for his children.14 Brothers Joseph and Sidney are at present on a mission to the East and North,15 but are expected soon. It is a general time of health here. The advance of the season16 has necessarily hindered the completion of the House of the Lord, but we trust that17 the labor will be resumed again in the opening of the spring with more rapidity.18 We ask an interest in the prayers of all the Saints and to be remembered in love19 to them. The great hurry of business renders it impossible to employ time20 in a long communication, so I close, believing you will excuse my imper-21 fections and haste.22 I remain your brother in the Lord.23 (Signed) Oliver Cowdery.

_____________________________________Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.9 - p.1024 Copy of letter from Oliver Cowdery to Samuel Bent:25 Dated, Kirtland Mills, Ohio, November 12, 1883.26 Dear brother:27 Were it not on particular business, amid my hurry, I should not28 address you at this time, as I am necessarily occupied in making arrangements29 for printing. Brother Joseph Wood left us some days since, and undoubtedly30 ere this arrives to your hand, will be with you. Previous to his leaving us31 bro F. G. Williams wrote a line and directed it to you expecting bro. Wood32 to carry it; but probably in the hurry of starting he forgot to take it.33 The substance of the line was as follows: We wish bro. Bent to send34 us, by the hand of bro. J. Wood, four or five smokedressed Deerskins:1 Be particular to select those that are good size, soft, and free from2 hard places. If I mistake not, I mentioned something of this when you were3 with us, if not, it is immaterial. If you can send us the above named4 skins, you will confer upon us a kindness. You may collect the amount5 for the skins in subscriptions for the "Star" if you can obtain that sum, if6 not, we will pay you at another time. It will probably be near the first7 of January before we shall issue the first "Star" from this place.8 Since bro. Wood left us, bro. Joseph S. & Sidney R. have returned9 from Canada, where they raised up a church of fourteen members.10 The Lord was with them truly, and their testimony had great11 effect on the minds of hundreds. There is a bright prospect of a12 great work in that country, and my prayer is, O, may the Lord roll13 it forth in mighty majesty, until thousands may be brought to14 rejoice in his peaceable kingdom!15 We have received some letters from our brethren in Missouri16 but it is hard to draw from them anything decisive as to the probable17 length that those depredators will go in their acts of wickedness and

18 barbarity. There seems to be a holding back on the part of our19 brethren, and we expect for fear that their letters might be interce-20 pted. They will undoubtedly bring these offenders to justice, yet they21 say that they swear openly that if the brethren attempt to seek redress they will22 rise and slay all they can! We leave all with God!23 Yours truly, though in haste:24 Oliver Cowdery

_____________________________Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.10 - p.1125 From Oliver Cowdery to Horace Kingsbury of Painesville, Ohio.26 Kirtland, Ohio, Nov. 29, 1833.27 Sir:28 I wish you to inform those of our Jackson friends, who wish29 for the information, that we shall print the Democrat in this30 place, as circumstances render it impossible to print it elsewhere.31 We shall draw a Prospectus soon, and if opportunity presents,32 send a copy to your place previous to publishing it, for the inspection33 and advice of our friends. Should we send one, we shall enjoin s______34 We shall endeavor to move sure and look for advice from our1 friends who are capable. I have learned the feelings of a large number of the2 inhabitants of this town, and find them far better inclined than I had anticipated.3 There are, to be sure, a certain little party who feel themselves intruded upon4 if they discover any more toward circulating the true principles of our constitution,5 and the exact policy of our government: from them we expect abuse6 and calumny, but we shall take the field with a view to show the7 Publick in this region the false insinuations of a party who cry blood and8 murder for no other reason then to feed the minds of the ignorant with9 falsehoods, to carry their own purposes into effect, to ride into office and10 hold an unbounded control over everything that will not bow to their11 futile system.12 I am, sir, though in haste, with due consideration,13 Yours. &c14 Oliver Cowdery15 P.S. If you deem it of any use you are at liberty to show this to Counselor--16 Tracy, R. Rosy, and other whole men.

_________________________________Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.11 - p.1217 To W. A. Cowdery of Freedom, N.Y.18 Dear Brother Warren:19 Yours of the 18th ult. has been received, though I must say,20 that I had anxieties to learn something from you previous to the reception of21 yours, and should have written soon, had I not received yours as I did.22 Father's family are well, brother Rich and family are also well. Were it23 not for the distressing intelligence from Missouri, I should not write you24 now, as my labor calls for every moment of my time. I have just learned

25 that those rioters who destroyed our printing office, have of late, carried their26 wicked practices to still greater length. After demolishing a number of houses27 in the night, beating some of our people almost to death, driving their28 women and helpless children into the woods to seek shelter under the29 open canopy, they were not yet satisfied, but returned again and commenced30 firing upon them. After they had fired several times, our people returned31 fire. They have had (says the last account) three battles, two in32 the night, and one in the day-time. The two first I have learned the33 particulars, but the last only by report. In the two first there were two of our34 people killed, and four or five of the enemy besides some wounded and1 several missing that could not be accounted for. In the last battle report2 says, there were two more of our people killed, and about twenty of the mob.3 How far this is correct I cannot say, but am in hopes to learn particulars3A In the last engagement the mob had a cannon.4 soon. I forbear writing farther on this very painful subject, merely saying5 that our paper will contain particulars, and I am now of the opinion that6 we shall be able to issue the first number in about two weeks.7 My heart sinks with sorrow when I reflect that any in our country have8 been put to death for their religion, and I say, may God protect the9 innocent and bring the guilty to judgment.10 Circumstances have rendered it so, that my wife will not be11 down this season, which is a disappointment to me indeed, and more12 particularly, when I consider the difficulty and dangers to which she13 is exposed, yet I have to be submissive to the providences of the Lord14 and trust all in his care.15 So, I close, assuring you that I am as ever, your brother.16 Kirtland Mills, Dec. 2, 1833. Oliver Cowdery.17 P.S. Remember me to our friends, to your family, to Sally and18 family, and Capt. Hyde and family.19 I shall soon expect your long letter. O.

_______________________________Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.12 - p.1320 Copy of a letter to my wife Elizabeth Ann, in the land of Zion, after intelligence21 was received that the Saints had been driven from their inheritances;22 and inserted in a letter of brother Joseph to the brethren:23 Dated, Kirtland, Dec. 6. 1833:24 Dear Elizabeth: God only knows the feelings of my heart as I address a25 few lines to you. I know not where this may find you, if ever; but26 I pray the Lord that it may. Brother Orson, and Gould came, but no27 Elizabeth came with them. I need not say anything of my disappointment, for28 I do not desire to add sorrow to your great afflictions, and can only say:29 I would you were here. When this arrives I want bro. John or William, to30 write me your situation, health, &c. immediately. If bro. Gilbert, or31 Phelps comes to the east I shall expect you without fail. I conclude32 my dear Elizabeth, by saying that my prayers ascend daily and hourly to God33 that you & I may be spared, & yet enjoy each other's society, in this life, in peace.

34 O be faithful to the Lord: stay yourself on his Omnipotent arm; and may1 God Almighty bless you, my dear, Amen. I am yours as ever, in life2 or in death. OLIVER.

____________________________________Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.133 Copy of letter to bro. W. W. Phelps, written in one of bro. Joseph's to the4 brethren after they were driven from their inheritances:5 Dated at Kirtland, Dec. 11, 1833.6 Dear Brother: After the arrival of your last letters, bro. Sidney immediately7 started and obtained near fifty dollars from our liberal brethren here, which8 we send for your assistance. We want bro. Partridge and Phelps to take it9 and administer to the necessities of the destitute as far as it will go.10 You must be patient as possible, the Lord is still in heaven, and11 we know that he will ascend yet in his might and deliver his Elect. Brother12 Wilber has just arrived and is well and will assist in the Office. We shall13 issue a paper soon if prospered. I want bro. Wm. to let me know every14 particular concerning father Whitmer's family. Tell me whether my wife15 is yet alive if you know. I was much disappointed that she did not16 come with bro. O. and J. but must be patient. Authentic information is17 what we want to lay before the public, for there is a great excitement,18 and many reports in circulation; our own minds are enraged, but we19 shall govern ourselves according to every emergency. May the Lord20 have compassion upon you bretheren is my prayer. I close with a21 heart full. Oliver Cowdery

__________________________________Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.1322 Copy of a letter to the Postmaster, in Kinsman, Trumbull Co., Ohio.23 Kirtland, Dec. 11, 1833.24 Sir - By request of a number of the citizens of this place I drop25 you this line, to acquaint you of a certain insane person in our vicinity who26 at times calls himself Johnathan Matthews; says he has relatives living in27 Kinsman, in this state. He is in a sufferable condition; barefoot, feet28 very sore, & much swollen. The inhabitants urge him into their house29 and administer to him in his afflictions when they can prevail on him to30 come in. If he has friends in your place no doubt you will confer a favor31 (on?) suffering humanity by giving them this intelligence.32 Yours, Respectfully, O. Cowdery.33 Postmaster, Kinsman, Ohio.Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.14 - p.171 Kirtland, January 1, 1834.2 Dear Brother John:3 This morning I take an opportunity to communicate4 to you a few lines, in answer to several letters received from you, which5 as yet remain unanswered: but I have no hesitancy in persuading myself6 that you will forgive this delay. When you wrote, no doubt, you supposed that7 all would come safe through the Post Office; but I having reason to suspect

8 that they would be purloined, dare not communicate anything that9 would do you any injury, even if it should be taken out and you not10 receive it; in this, no doubt, you will justify me. We received the name11 of our former subscribers a few days since, which were mailed on12 the 3d. of last month, and a letter from bro. Corril to me, directed to13 bro. Elliott, Sunday evening. Know assuredly, bro. John, that we14 are anxious to receive intelligence from our brethren who have been15 driven from their inheritances, and we are pleased to hear that the16 Governor is likely to give you aid; for we pray continually that17 the Lord will stir up the hearts of the Rulers & men in18 authority, to avenge his children. The Law is sufficient,19 the constitution was established acccording to the will of Heaven:20 and all the lack is, for those whose duty it is to see that they are kept21 inviolable do their duty: pray that this may be the case; for God is22 able to turn the hearts of all men sufficiently to bring his purposes23 to pass. You have requested instruction on the subject of Church24 Records: I have just conversed with bro. Joseph concerning the25 same; and he has given me instruction upon his letter published26 in the 8th no. of the Star; but says that we shall probably27 receive more on the same, and then we will communicate it.28 I will say, however, that it is necessary to keep the names of29 the Saints, & when a child is brought forward to be30 blessed by the Elders, it is then necessary to take their names31 upon the church Record. Put down the name of the man, his32 place of birth, and when, &c. and also of his family. If he begets33 children after that & they do not come into the church their names are34 not known with their brethren in the book of remembrance. apostatis35 ________ write, opposite his name that he has. If he begets children1 after that & they do not come into the church their names are not known2 with their brethren in the book of remembrance. The names of the saints3 are to be kept in a book that contains the law of God; this is what is4 meant in bro. Joseph's letter. In due time you will receive all these5 things, and all necessary information. Each family will have its record6 with the law of the Lord in it; each branch of the church the same7 in every city; and each city one general record kept by a general8 clerk. Brother Joseph says, that the item in his letter that says, that9 the man that is called &c. and puts forth his hand to steady the10 ark of God, does not mean that any one had at the time, but it was given11 for a caution to those in high standing to beware, lest they12 should fall by the shaft of death as the Lord had said.13 Since I came down I have been informed from a proper14 source that the Angel Michael is no less than our father15 Adam, and Gabriel is Noah. I just drop this because I supposed16 that you would be pleased to know, and I have no disposition to17 keep back anything from my brethren that I am privileged to18 know. Brother Gilbert writes a few words concerning my wife,

19 in his letter to bro. Whitney, and says that he was ready on his20 part to advance money for her expense when bro. Orson &21 John came. Please say to him that I am satisfied with him22 on that point, and am thankful that he was willing so to do,23 and am under the same obligation for his kindness, as though she24 had actually come. But I was greatly disappointed, and my heart is often25 filled with sorrow. You no doubt recollect bro. Joseph's long26 communication by the hand of bro. Orson and John, that it27 was the will of the Lord, or wisdom that I should tarry here.28 Now then bro. John could you suppose that I could come to Zion29 in the spring to tarry? You request the names of the authors of30 that letter concerning tongues. I have written them once, but31 conclude you did not receive my letter. Wm. Whitney, and32 Rhoda Mills wrote the letter referred to; but we presume they33 wrote nothing that did not transpire, so we did not blame34 them, we only cautioned you because we saw that you would35 get into difficulty if you depended on the gift of tongues for revelations.1 I have not been able to ascertain where my wafe was,2 although bro. Gilbert says she is well, and you say she3 is with father & mother. I supposed of course you knew, but4 it would be a satisfaction to me to know also. I want you to5 see her & hand her the following & write me immediately,6 & by so doing, you will confer a lasting favor of your7 unworthy brother. I daily think how many hours I have spent8 with you and brother Wm. & I ask myself, shall I not be9 privileged again to enjoy your society; yea, verily I trust10 in the Lord that I shall, for I often see you in visions and in11 dreams. My love to all the family & brethren. Oliver.12 P.S. I enclose a fifty dollar note in this which has been13 donated by the churches, that is forty of it, for the relief of the14 needy Saints, which you will hand over to bro. Partridge and15 Phelps, excepting ten dollars which I send to my wife. I feel16 for her wants, but it is difficult for me to get much17 money to send.18 My dear Elizabeth:19 Our Father in heaven only knows the20 feelings & anxieties of my heart toward, & for you. I consider21 that it is now more than one year since we commenced keeping22 house, and out of that time, we were only permitted to spend seven23 months in each other's society. I looked anxiously for you24 with bro. Orson H. & John G. but was disappointed! and25 I said, O Lord, preserve thy handmaid that thy servant may26 see her yet in peace, & enjoy her company here on earth27 in the flesh, in the name of Jesus; Amen. And what could28 I say more? I think of your situation daily, and my mind29 is filled with continual sorrow. I live at bro. Joseph's,

30 and am treated with brotherly kindness; but that is not31 like living with a family of one's own, when the Lord32 has given him one. I would say something about your33 coming to me, but I know not how to send, who to send34 nor what way to send. My time is necessarily occupied35 here: we are poor: we exerted every possible means to1 pay bro. Gilbert's debts in N. Y. and we loaned money to2 purchase our press and types. And notwithstanding I am3 separated from you, and we are in these difficulties, yet I4 endeavor to stay myself upon the Lord, Indeed, he is my only5 refuge. Be faithful, be patient, be not cast down, be6 not discouraged, be not terrified, for God dwells in heaven,7 and ere long we shall meet at his right hand, where parting8 will not be known. I have seen a letter from Diana to9 Sister Nancy Richardson, which says that she had made10 an exchange with you of some beads &c. which she has11 here; but I am told she has nothing here of any value12 scarcely, that is not a doll's worth. When you come away,13 if you do not bring all of your goods with you, leave14 all that you do not bring with mother, or some of the15 family, where they can be kept safely, for we shall16 want them when we return. I give you this, that you17 may be wise and I have no doubt you will.18 I enclose fifty dollars in this for the poor brethren,19 but ten of it is for you. You will take it therefore &20 use if for your own benefit, as you see proper. The21 mail starts soon, so I must close.22 My love to father & mother & all of the family.23 I am, affectionately, yours, Oliver.24 P.S. We have sent the Star to some of the brethren, and25 want bro. Wm. to send us the names of more if they want.

______________________Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.17 - p.1826 Copy of a letter to Samuel Bent, of Pontiac, Michigan Territory27 Kirtland, January 7, 1834.28 Dear brother:29 I received yours requesting information whether bro. Jospeh Wood30 could tarry with you a while without interfering with31 former engagements to return; and in reply I have to state,32 having conversed with the brethren, that as long as brother33 Wood can be useful among you, it is not improper for him34 to continue, as the school of the Elders will not recommence this35 winter. Business calls my attention, and I am not permitted to1 communicate on any one subject; but can say, that2 health prevails among us as usual. The enemies of the3 truth are combined to overthrow it and bring to shame and

4 disrepute the cause of the Lord. We need an interest in the5 prayers of all the saints, and I doubt not but we are6 remembered in all your petitions to the throne of heaven.7 Intelligence from the west informs us that there was a8 prospect that the Governor of Missouri was about to rein-9 state the brethren upon their land; this we have from10 two different letters, and we think we may confide in its11 correctness. We hope you will give us information concerning12 the prosperity of the cause among you; for every13 information of the spread of the truth seems as a spring14 to all the Saints. Excuse my brevity and accept15 assurances of my fellowship and esteem.16 Oliver Cowdery17 Samuel Bent.18 N.B. We forward you a prospectus19 for our seekly paper, and if you can obtain subscri-20 bers, please forward them. O. C.

_________________________Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.18 - p.2221 Kirtland, Ohio, Monday, January 13, 1834.22 Dear brother Lyman,23 Yours of the 3d. and postmarked the24 5th of this month was received at this office by Saturday's25 mail. Not having been favored with a communication from26 you since I left your state in October, 1830, I can say,27 that I am willing to acknowledge the gratitude which occ-28 upied my bosom on the reception of yours bearing date as29 above. I was happy to learn of the health of yourself &30 family and I doubt not, but I am remembered with due31 brotherly kindness yet by yourself & sister Liza.32 I was pleased with your principles as advanced in33 yours to me & in reply I may say, that as to the pure34 republicanism which was the basis of my political ________1 while with you. I have not changed from the same, for the Magna2 Charta of equal rights, equal privileges and equal protection3 as guaranteed in the constitution of our country is that which4 shall never be dishonored by me; and my fervent wish, is5 that it never may be by any of the name while this country6 is called America or the sun in yonder firmament continues7 to shed his light upon the footstool of God.8 My occupation in life is different from what it was9 when I resided in your country & my profession is also10 different; but so long as we all are bound to support the same11 constitution & are held amenable to the laws it is but just,12 that we should entertain our own opinions & exercise our13 own privileges in every matter in which we all are so

14 deeply interested. Consequently then I consider it not only my15 privilege, but my duty to myself & to the name to ever enter-16 tain a free, uncontrolled & unshackled principle as to matters of our17 Government and without further comment on this point, I will18 say, that as they were when I were with you so they are still;19 so they will remain. Perhaps you may be anxious to ascer-20 tain my principles as to particular forms of government, that21 is whether a government would not be better administered by22 the Clergy, or to speak more in the common phrase, whether a23 government of church & State would not be preferable to ours or24 any other? I have observed for some time past, a move toward that25 stand by a certain sect in our land which has excited my26 attention, and caused me perhaps to investigate the subject more27 closely than I should have done, had it been otherwise. My opinion28 _____________ upon this point is established; and is simply this, the29 moment any one religious sect now extant gains the ascendancy30 sufficient to hold the administration of our government, the human31 spirit is so easily corrupted that a spirit of intolerance would32 immediately transcend that of justice & equity, and we should33 be compelled to immediately bid an everlasting adieu to our34 hard bought liberty. You ask me for information relative35 to the shameful outrage in Missouri. I forward you a paper with1 this letter, from which you will learn every principal2 matter relating to the same, exepting I have been informed that3 the governor of that state has offered to reinstate my friends again4 upon their own lands and also has issued his proclamation to call5 out three hundred men from the adjoining counties that a court6 might be held, but the last has not yet been confirmed,7 consequently I wait without putting too much evidence in it8 until I learn further particulars.9 I may say with propriety, however, that one of the10 most disgraceful scenes has transpired, that has ever been11 the painful duty of any American Citizen to record or relate12 since these colonies were organized into free states. Peaceable13 inhabitants have been vilely and inhumanly treated and one14 killed: helpless women & children have been compelled to seek15 an asylum among strangers & some to wander in the open16 prairies without food, or anything but the open canopy17 to shelter them. These unlawful proceedings will, no doubt18 be accounted for (thought not made to appear justifiable)19 when I inform you that those men were principally emigrants from20 the southern States, and settled in that county before the land came21 into market and the probability is, that few were able to purchase22 and if they are not the offscourings of the United States, the society23 from whence they came is equally to be pittied with themselves.24 How this unhappy affair will terminate I am unable to

25 say, but I am informed that several suits have been comm-26 enced against the heads of the mob, and I have no hesitency in27 saying that if justice is done, we shall receive a fair28 compensation for all our damages sustained and these miserable29 outlaws feel the weight of justice to that efficient degree30 that they will perhaps be willing to let peaceable citizens31 remain unmolested hereafter. I was pleased with your obs-32 ervations relative to the Book of Mormon. That "if it is33 true it will stand, but if not it will fall," is a fact34 needs no casuist to determine the matter. That I have35 equal claim upon the laws for protecton in my manner1 faith and worship, is a fact also, that no scholar of2 the constitution will, for a moment deny; and to seek3 the destruction of a man because of his religion is a step4 too low for any citizen of our Republic to take. This body may5 be confined in chains, racked upon the wheel or consumed with6 the fagot, but still, mens invicta manet. [The mind remains7 unconquered]. Hurlbut is now in this country pedling slanders,8 but has said nothing about myself as I have learned. If you9 were acquainted with his character, as represented to me, you would10 never regret that you did not open a communication with him.11 I was married one year the 18th of December last, to12 Miss Elizabeth Ann Whitmer, formerly of Fayette, Senica County,13 N.Y. I left her in Missouri last summer expecting to return14 soon, but did not. I sent for her last fall but the season was15 so far advanced that she did not deem it prudent to come this16 season; I frequently hear from her, she is well and probably17 will come to this county next spring. How long I may tarry18 here is to me uncertain, as I expect, (if life is spared,) sooner or19 later to remove again to Missouri, as it is by far the most20 delightful country that I ever saw. I do not expect to go21 for years however. Should you visit sister Olive I should be22 highly gratified if you could so arrange your business as23 to visit me also. Father is about to apply for a pension, and24 will I think succeed in obtaining it. If he should not, however, I25 shall write you to get certificates of his character as a man of truth &c.26 He has not lived in this place but a short time, and is27 not as well known as in your place. The family are as well as28 usual, and pleased to hear from you. I hope, brother Lyman,29 that our religious opinions will never be a barrier between30 us as brethren on my part it never will while I am possessed31 of my natural intellect. I would be glad to write you more fully32 on many subjects, and particularly on that of religion, but33 am under the necessity of abridging my letter for34 reasons of time and room. I was about to publish a part of35 ____ letter, the principles contained in it being of so important

1 a nature, but did not know but it would be an2 intrusion, so I shall forbear.3 You will please accept my respects &4 esteem, for yourself & sister Eliza, and write when5 convenient, I am, &c. Oliver Cowdery.6 Lyman Cowdery.7 P.S. I send friend Hudson a paper, and should any other8 of my old friends wish, you will please inform me by letter.9 Tell me whether my old friend, Thomas Dickerson is yet10 alive, if he is say to him that I have not forgotten him.11 O.C.

__________________________________Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.2212 Copy of a letter to Wm. W. Phelps & John Whitmer of Clay Co. Mo.13 written in one from Orson Hyde to the brethren in that place.14 Dated Kirtland, Jan. 21, 1834.15 Bros. Wm. & John:16 I am yet alive, and I anxiously wait17 till the Lord grants us the privilege of meeting again. Our18 office is yet in the brick building, though we expect19 in the spring to move on the hill near the Methodist20 meeting house. Our enemies have threatened us, but21 thank the Lord we are yet on earth. They came out on the 8th22 about 12 o'clock at night, a little west & fired cannon,23 we suppose to alarm us, but no one was frightened,24 but all prepared to defend ourselves if they made a sally25 upon our houses. I want you to explain particularly26 respecting the new office in Liberty, and whether you27 sold any Types of any of the Office Apparatus.28 My love to Elizabeth.29 Write again, that I may publish it.30 O. CowderyLetters of Oliver Cowdery, p.23 - p.241 Kirtland Mills, Feb. 3, 1834.2 Dear Bro. Fosdick:3 Your letter of the 10th Jan. last is4 just recd and this day there has been a regular Council5 of H. Priests & Elders in this place, and the subject spoken6 of in your letter was, we believe, taken into due consideration.7 We were very sorry to learn that Bro. J. Wood had gone8 so far astray and offered such violence to the pure principles9 of the Gospel of Christ. But, alas! Such is the depravity of man10 when lost to a sense of the fear of God and of the ties which bind11 every virtuous man to the interest and happiness of his fellow man.12 Every principle incubated among you which is contrary13 to virtue, to industry, to wisdom, to good order, to propriety,

14 and in fine, to the pure principles of godliness as contained in15 the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, the Book of Mormon16 and the revelations and commandments of Jesus Christ, which17 have been given to his church in these last days, is entirely18 foreign from the feelings of our breasts, and is that upon which we19 look down with feelings of the utmost disapprobation; and as consc-20 iencious men who expect to render an impartial account, before21 the searcher of hearts, of all our transactions here, we cannot22 look upon any principle contrary to the above with any degree23 of allowance.24 After some investigation of the case of Bro Wood, in council,25 it was decided that he should be cut off from the Church.26 Accordingly the Council lifted their hands against him and27 he was excluded from the church on this 3d. day of Feb. 1834.28 (for?) indulging an idle, partial, overbearing and lustful spirit and29 (not?) magnifying his holy calling whereunto he had been30 ordained. These things were plainly manifest to the satisfaction31 of all the council, and the spirit constrained us to separate him32 from the church. Should bro. Joseph Wood, after learning33 (the?) decission of this council, truly repent of all his sins and34 bring forth fruit meet to the satisfaction of that branch of the35 Church where he has committed the offences, he can be1 rebaptized and come into the church again if he desires2 so to do. The instructions which you desire relative to3 church gov. &c. the extent of the power of a high Priest4 over any branch of the church, are subjects which5 will be investigated in the next no. of the Star. Time6 will not allow us to write the subjects at full length now,7 suffice it, therefore, to say that there is no office in this Church8 which can be placed upon the head of any man that will9 place him beyond the power & control of any branch of the church10 where he may be guilty of transgression, even if there is not11 another ordained member in the church, let the church app-12 oint some brother to preside and let them do as one church13 did in ancient days, "Try them who say they are apostles and14 are not, but are liars," then let them demand their license,15 raise their hands against them and thus, they are expelled16 from the communion of the church. It requires all the17 members of the church to constitute the body of Christ. One18 man is not the body, nor are the children of the Kingdom19 to be tantalized by men who may hold licenses and have20 authority to preach the gospel; such have the more need to21 be discreet and humble. Should the individual, after being22 thus dealt with be dissatisfied with the decision of the Church23 he can appeal to a Bishop's Court, and should he there be24 judged guilty, he can yet appeal to a court of high priests

25 and this is an end of all disputes and controversies in the26 Church of God on earth.27 Brethren in the new covenant, Farewell.28 Signed Joseph Smith Jr. (Moderator)29 Orson Hyde (Clerk of County)30 Copied by direction of the Council, by Oliver CowderyLetters of Oliver Cowdery, p.25 - p.261 Copy of a letter to brother Fosdick of Pontiac Michigan Territory.2 Dated, Kirtland Mills, Feb. 4, 1834.3 Dear Brother:4 It becomes my painful duty to inform5 you that at a council of high priests & elders assembled6 yesterday, brother Joseph Wood was expelled from this church.7 Brother Samuel Bent wrote me a letter some time since,8 requesting me to obtain the consent of the brethren9 in this place for bro. J. Wood to tarry in your country10 a season. Accordingly I made the necessary inquiry,11 and returned him the answer in mine to him, of the 7th of12 January last. The brethren here consented to have bro. W.13 tarry with you for the express purpose of preaching the gospel,14 and not to spend his time in idleness or pretended study. God15 has appointed a school for his faithful Elders: In it they are16 to be taught all things necessary to qualify them for their17 ministry: In it they are to learn. In it they are to be endowed18 with power, from on high: but when entrusted with the great19 office and authority to preach and are sent out, it is20 with the expectation and consideration they will do so: If21 not they lose the Spirit and fall into diverse sins and22 hurtful lust which if not speedily repented of, drown23 them in perdition and sorrow. It was a solemn time in24 the Council: none but those who consider the worth of souls25 can imagine the feelings of our hearts. Our sympathies26 would have said spare him! had it not been for the27 conviction of every mind that he could not in justice28 stand. These are days of trial! God has spoken from the midst of29 Eternity, and committed his everlasting gospel to men on earth!30 (They?) have heard his voice! Shall we hold fellowship and commun-31 ion with those who will dishonor the holy cause and bring a32 reproach upon the Church of Christ, and wound the pure in heart! No!33 God forbid! Talents or no talents, Science or no science, intellige-34 nce or no intelligence, we know that whatever is good is from God, &35 (witnesseth?) of his hand: consequently, then, it can be recalled when1 he will, and the man is left as naked as that one was, who met2 Christ, coming out of the tomb. The Lord calls for laboring and3 if one will not be faithful he calls another; his elect will be4 gathered, they will hear his voice, they will follow him; and

5 blessed is he in that day whose garments have not been spotted6 with sin!7 I subjoin the letter from the council to you and that8 church, which you are at liberty to read in your meeting,9 before the church, if you deem it of any benefit, before10 the unbelievers also, as well as these few lines from your11 unworthy brother in the bonds of the new covenant.12 Oliver Cowdery13 To J. G. Fosdick

__________________________Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.26 - p.2714 Copy of a letter to L. W. Denton, Florence, Ohio.15 Kirtland Mills, Ohio, Feb. 10, 1834,16 Dear brother Wilbur:17 We are all well, and doing18 as usual, the Lord is with us yet, and I may say,19 we enjoy as we have in time past, a sufficient portion of20 his spirit that we are restrained from acts of gross sin.21 I received a long circular, or hand bill, this evening from22 Zion, written by our brethren in that country and printed;23 I shall have it set out, and sent, Extra Star, and I want you24 to come soon. Stop to Kellogg's and pay him ten dollars and four25 cents if you have it, & take his receipt for the same; but if26 you have not the amt. you need not call - come quickly -27 we are in a hurry - God be with, and keep you safely; Amen.28 I am as ever, Your brother in the Lord.29 O. Cowdery.30 P.S.31 Brother John writes that Elizabeth is well, and the32 brethren in general, as far as he knows.33 No particular news than when you left34 Brother Morris Daily.35 I direct this to you,1 and wish you to convey to bro. Wilber as soon as2 convenient, as I wish he may have it put into his hands3 immediately: He will pay you back the postage.4 I am yours, Respectfully5 O. Cowdery67 ___________________________Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.278 Copy of a letter to Mrs. Thankful Halsey, of Ghent, N. Y. in answer9 to one written from her to Joseph Smith, Jun.10 Madam - Mr. Smith is not in the place, having left11 a few days since; but authorized me to open his letters till his12 return. This day's mail brought yours of the 16th last

13 month desiring information concerning Parley Pratt & wife;14 and out of a sense of common feeling which I consider the duty of15 every individual to his fellow - (Clay?) I haste to answer yours16 to Mr. Smith.17 Mr. P. Pratt was in this place a few days since,18 direct from Upper Missouri, where he left his wife in19 a low state of health, probably as been years past, in20 comfortable circumstances, till he returns, which is expected21 to be this spring. He was well. He & wife & the society22 to which they were united have been driven by a mob, from23 the county of Jackson of late.24 Parley was considerably hurt; but escaped. Whether your25 daughter lost her goods, (as many did,) I am not informed.26 Excuse my brevity,27 I am, Respectfully, &c.28 Kirtland Ohio, March 4, 1834. O. Cowdery.Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.28 - p.301 Copy to J. G. Fosdick, Samuel Bent, Elijah Fordham2 of Pontiack, Michigan3 Dated Kirtland, March 7, 1834.4 Dear brethren - Yours of the 16th last month has been5 received, and I think I may say gives general satisfaction, so far6 at least as it has been communicated. Bros. Joseph & Sidney7 are now absent on a mission to the east, and will be from8 home a few weeks; when they arrive your letter will be laid before9 them. I may say out of a regard to you as brethren in the bonds of10 the everlasting covenant I haste to answer yours, though a press11 of business prevents a lengthy communication. We are well generally,12 and are thankful that we have been so highly favored of our13 Father as to be permitted to embrace his gracious Gospel in its14 fulness in the last days. I am sensible, that many reproaches15 are and will be heaped upon us falsely by apostates; but16 we are endeavoring to have a conscious void of offence in the17 sight of heaven; and if we maintain this, we are certain, that18 when the trying hour arrives, we shall shine in the Kingdom of19 our God, while liars and adulterers meet their just reward.20 We leave all in the hands of our Judge, who will give to all their21 just due! I know, brethren, that your good judgment22 will draw the distinction correctly, and that from a23 man who will leave a virtuous companion and follow24 adulterous practices, you will not expect but little truth!25 That sacred marriage covenant is, in my opinion of too26 precious a nature to be trifled with, without justice27 overtaking the breaker of it sooner or later. With regard28 to our honesty and righteousness, as individuals of whom29 Mr. Wood spake, I can say, by our fruits we are to be

30 known, and so far from doing anything in the dark,31 brethren, come and prove us critically as you please, &32 then of course you will be satisfied. But this, as a33 consciencious man I am bound to say, that God has34 spoken to us, and we bear testimony of his words, and we34A come35 know, that he will come ere long, to take to himself all the1 faithful, and we further know that adultery is an abomination2 in his sight, and whether it is in ours, I will leave what3 we have done in the case of J. Wood, and time to prove. I4 am not in a habit of boasting, nor do I desire to be exalted5 in my own strength. So, brethren, I close, assuring you6 that my heart is warm with love toward the faithful in7 Christ Jesus.8 Oliver Cowdery9 P.S. You may be disappointed in not receiving in the10 Star the information spoken of in the letter from the Council:11 There was not room; but it will probably be in the next.12 O.C.13 N.B. The seventeen preceding letters were copied by14 Thomas Burdick,15 A Member in the16 Church of ChristLetters of Oliver Cowdery, p.30 - p.381 To Edward, Williams and others of the firm.2 Kirtland, March 30, 1834.3 Dear Brethren:4 We have received several communications from5 you of late; but the most of us being absent, brother Oliver6 laid them over till council could be had; and I now7 seat myself to dictate to answer them all in one.8 Since brothers Parley & Lyman arrived I have written9 a few lines with my own hand in letters which10 have already gone: one from this place, and one11 from Freedom N.Y. but was not able to write the more12 weighty matters, and did not think to say anything13 more than to comfort your hearts if possible, and14 keep you from fainting, while God, in his wisdom,15 and in the order of his providence, is preparing16 all things before his face for the redemption of17 Zion. We rejoice greatly on learning that you18 and the brethren, so many of them, are yet spared19 in the midst of those who wear the form of human20 being, but are less merciful than the prowling21 beast of the wilderness. We would inform you that22 with very few exceptions the Church in this

23 place are all well; and every man, woman &24 child that belongs to the Church, as far as25 I have any knowledge of the matter, are crying26 day & night to God for the deliverance and27 prosperity of Zion; and many are preparing28 with all zeal to do all that lies in their29 power to accomplish the great work, and30 it will be seen in due time, that the saints31 in this region are not slack towards you32 considering their circumstances, & their great33 poverty, & afflictions & persecutions with34 which they are called to suffer in this part as35 well as you in that region; for the more we1 try to live Godly in Christ Jesus, the more we are made to feel the2 weight of persecution, inflicted by those who are under the inf-3 luence of the enemy of the souls of men. But let this suf-4 fice: I shall proceed first to answer some of the most important5 items contained in your last communications, the more part6 which gave us much satisfaction. We admire the confi-7 dence & love which our brethren have manifested in them, in8 giving us sharp, piercing, & cutting reproofs, which are9 calculated to wake us up and make us search about ourse-10 lves, & put a double watch over ourselves in all things11 that we do. And we acknowledge that it is our duty12 to receive all reproofs & chastisements given of the spi-13 rit of the most Holy One. And if being chastised and14 reproved of what we are guilty, seems not to be joyous15 for the present but grievous, O, how wounding &16 how poignant must it be to receive chastisements &17 reproofs for things that we are not guilty of from18 a source we least expect them, arising from a distrus-19 tful, a fearful, & jealous spirit. However, we feel20 to make all allowances, & reflect seariously & consider21 upon all sides before we make an effort to throw off22 the yoke, lest we should be found in anywise blamable before23 God. There are some items contained in bro. William's letters24 by the way of reproof, that we feel to give, we think24A know25 some reasonable excuses, that you may know how far you26 have reasons to give reproof, that you may not have27 wrong feelings concerning those to whom you are espoused28 in Christ Jesus who always will be found true to all con-29 fidence that shall be imposed in them.30 Firstly, you have given us to understand that there are31 glaring errors in the Revelation, or rather, have shown us the32 most glaring ones, which are not calculated to suit the

33 refinement of the age in which we live, of the great men, &c.34 We would say, by way of excuse, that we did not35 think so much of the orthography, or the manner, as1 as we did of the subject matter; as the word of God2 means what it say; & it is the word of God, as much as3 Christ was God, although he was born in a stable &4 was rejected by the manner of his birth, notwithstanding5 he was God. What a mistake! the manner of his birth, &6 the source from which he sprang caused him to be7 rejected & cast out, & to be taken & put to death.7A had8 Whereas had he pleased the great men, the high priests, the9 lawyers, & the learned, he might have escaped. But10 supposing we should happen to make as great a11 mistake as the Lord did, & come under the censure of big12 men & fall in the same way, what would be the cons-13 equence? The fact was, there was no room in the Inn:14 & when men cannot do as they would, they must do as15 they can; for God set the example before them.16 For there was no room in the Inn! but there was room found "17 in the stable; here was utterly a fault in the eyes of the18 laughing philosophers," but it is not given to us to understand19 that he altered his course to please any man. And who was20 it that triumphed? Was it the "laughing philosophers," or him21 who never deviated from the will of him who sent him?22 Now the fact is, if we have made any mistakes in punctuation, or23 spelling, it has been done in consequence of brother Oliver24 having come from Zion in great afflictions, through much25 fatigue and anxiety, and being sent contrary to his expectation to26 New York, and obtaining press and Types, and hauling them up in27 the midst of mobs, when he and I, and all the church in Kirtland28 had to lie every night for a long time upon our arms to keep29 off mobs, of forties, of eighties, & of hundreds to save our lives and30 the press, and that we might not be scattered & driven to the31 four winds! And all this in the midst of every kind of confu-32 sion & calamity, & in the sorrowful tale of Zion, for the sake of33 Zion, that the word of God might be printed & sent forth by34 confidential brethren to the different churches; for the churches35 are just like you - they will not receive anything but by1 revelation! for when you hint they will ask a question, and2 if by any means in the heat of zeal you would hit them a kick it3 never fails to turn over the dish. Therefore, when we give them a hint,4 and they ask a question, we sometimes answer them plainly; but all this5 is a wonder and a mystery; but it won't do to kick, therefore6 to unfold the mystery we must of necessity send out the word of7 -the mystery we must of- God unto the different churches, or they

8 could not be made to understand, that they, with their moneys, and9 their young men & their middle aged must, in order to do the10 will of God, redeem the land which had been purchased, & the11 Children of Zion - and if by chance in doing all this we should have12 to suffer peril by false brethren. For men are as liable in this generation13 to turn aside from the holy commandments, as were the children of14 Israel when Aaron bought the golden calf at the expense of all the15 jewelry & riches of the children of Israel, while Moses tarried yet16 forty days in the mount, that he might receive the law of the17 everlasting gospel upon tables of stone, written by the finger of18 of God, while they, the children of Israel, were delivered over, &19 bowed down and worshiped the dumb idol, and said, These be20 our Gods that brought us up out of the land of Egypt. And Moses21 being angry destroyed the tables of stone, and the golden calf and made22 the children of Israel drink the substance of their God, which they23 said brought them up out of the land of Egypt. Therefore, I24 say, if we should suffer peril among false brethren, should it25 be accounted a strange thing? But here comes up another question,26 a great mystery! How did the revelation come to be garbled by27 the printer of the day, published and sent to Jackson Co.28 and elsewhere? But of all these things, upon a little reflection29 had been rightly considered and understood, there would have30 been no mystery, nor any question asked. Not a sigh -31 not a lingering thought - not a grief, or a single reflection32 cast upon the innocent, a virgin, the spouse of Zion! Suffice it33 to say, that the revelation went into the hands of the world by stealth,34 through the means of false brethren, and lest it should reach the ears35 of the President and Governor, with a false coloring, being misrepresented,1 wisdom dictated that we should send it in its own proper light.2 And if truth, and the word of God will not bear off the Talons and3 bring us the victory, shall we who profess to be men of God conde-4 scend to folly? Shall we turn aside from the word of God and5 seek to save our lives, and that we may please men? If men6 will seek occasion against the truth, will they not seek occasion7 even if we should shun the truth? The fact is, beloved brethren,8 we seek not gold or silver or this world's goods, nor honors nor9 the applause of men; but we seek to please him, and to do the10 will of him who hath power not only to destroy the body; but11 to cast the soul into hell! Ah! men should not attempt to12 steady the ark of God! But enough on this subject.13 Now concerning employing Mr. Wells of Jefferson City,14 as Counsellor &c. We think it would be advisable. You may15 consider that you have our consent: We speak to wise men!16 Judge ye what we say! Employ, then, Mr. Wells, and although17 we have neither gold nor silver, we have run into debt for the18 press, and also to obtain money to pay the New York debt for Zion,

19 and have received but a very few dollars for the Star and20 printing as yet, no means of speculation to gain or make21 money, yet we think that the money can be had, and that there22 will be no difficulty on this subject: and this, while you are23 writing to us to reprove us, and telling us, that your dependence24 for money is on your eastern brethren, and at the same time saying25 "Don't buy your gold too dear!" this is the way that we26 buy our gold! Now, brethren, let me tell you, that it is my dispos-27 ition to give and forgive, and to bear & to forbear, with all long28 suffering and patience, with the foibles, follies, weaknesses, &29 wickedness of my brethren and all the world of mankind; and30 my confidence and love toward you is not slackened, nor31 weakened. And now, if you should be called upon to bear32 with us a little in any of our weaknesses and follies, and33 should, with us, receive a rebuke to yourselves, don't be34 offended, don't in anywise let it hit you, so as to turn35 over the dish! And when you & I meet face to face, I1 anticipate, without the least doubt, that all matters between2 us will be fairly understood, and perfect love prevail; and3 sacred covenant by which we are bound together, have the4 uppermost seat in our hearts.5 We expect that a number of our able brethren will come on6 soon and go to Zion; and should you have no other way of7 obtaining moneys, you can sell them your lands, let them go on to8 them, protect them on the same, till your suits are determined, and9 then, (if you succeed) you will have means to purchase more,10 and if not they will receive you into their bosoms. We see no other11 way now; but the Lord may open other ways in time. Brs. Parley12 and Lyman are both in the east; but we expect they will leave13 here for the west by the first of May, and go as soon as they14 can, so should you be organized by the time they arrive, perhaps it15 would be well. You must act wisdom for yourselves in many16 things, as you are better prepared to judge in many things than we17 are. Many things are familiar with some of us, which we cannot com-18 municate by letter; but will be brought about in their time.19 You ought to be prepared to go back at a moment's warning,20 and we are inclined to think that it was a wise step in employing21 the Att'y Gen. for he will investigate and learn the truth, and the22 Governor will investigate also.23 Once more I design coming unto; but when, it has not24 been revealed: whether it will be with Parley & Lyman I25 cannot now say; but once more I design to come mob or26 no mob, enemy or no enemy! There needs be no difficulty in27 relation to the revelations for they show plainly from the28 face of them, that no blood is to be shed except in self-29 defense; and that the law of God as well as man gives us

30 a privilege. If you make yourselves acquainted with the revelations,31 you will see that this is the case, though we should not publish32 any more than we are obliged to of necessity for the church's33 sake. We have nothing to fear if we are faithful: God will strike34 through kings in the day of his wrath but what he will deliver his35 people; and what do you suppose he could do with a few mobbers1 in Jackson County, when ere long, he will set his2 feet, when earth & heaven shall tremble!3 Be united, brethren, in all your moves, and stand by4 each other even unto death you may prevail.5 I remain your brother in the new Covenant.6 Joseph Smith, Jun.7 P.S. To bro. William ------- You say "my press, my8 types, &c." Where, our brethren ask, did you get them, &9 how came they to be "yours?" No hardness, but a caution,10 for you know, that it is, We, not I, and all things are the11 Lord's, and he opened the hearts of his Church to12 furnish these things, or we should not have been priv-13 leged with using them.14 Dear brother William:14A bro. Joseph's15 You will see that I have written closely -16 and have saved a short space, I see that you did not17 understand the enquiry relative to antimony &c. and perhaps18 the enquiry was not as explicit as it should have been -19 I merely wanted to know the process of melting antimony -20 not the price of it, nor the proper compound for type metal.21 We purchased some antimony last fall, thinking to cast22 some Oads; but we were difficultied in melting it, or23 rather melting or mixing it with lead, so we conclu-24 ded to write to bro. Marsh & learn the method, not the25 art of making types. Though if the Lord should give his26 Saints a type foundry in Kirtland it would be no more27 mysterious than that he should bring forth the fulness28 of his Gospel in these last days, and give you &28A it29 myself a privilege of embracing first that we might30 have the great & exalted saying conferred upon us,31 that we were of the first fruits unto God in this his last1 Kingdom. We talk some of stereotyping the old copy with2 the book of Mormon; but when will depend upon circumstances attended3 with the blessings of the Lord. I send father Chapen a paper accor-4 ding to your direction; but do not know brother Newberry's first name -5 please write it in your next. Those other names were so closely compressed6 that it was with some difficulty that I ascertained who and where and7 I am not now certain - please write in your next, for we want them to

8 go that the news may spread. In your letter to the Firm by Parley and9 Lyman you wish me to represent the importance of your requests;10 but I know not as I could say anything which would awaken them11 to activity in the cause of Zion, anymore than they are now - Night &12 Day with every means they cease not to labor, and I can safely say12A much as13 that they think & long for her deliverance as those who have lived upon14 her consecrated soil. Your request relative to clothing &c. shall be15 properly considered. I will just remind you that your reproofs,16 though designed for the best, are calculated to make a different im-17 pression when written than when given orally - the fact is, it18 is a long distance to reprove for small things in these days19 of great events. I drop you this because you & I labored together20 a long time & I have no doubt but it will be received - you21 know how it was once in reproving. Bro. Martin called on22 Tom Channing some time since for your old moulds and Tom23 had the politeness to inform him where he could get one made &24 Martin not understanding that it was your mould paid his25 money for the new one and Tom keeps yours -- so much for26 his honor when he thinks you are beyond his reach or he yours.27 As respects giving the Jackson mobbers their true characters in28 the Star - we do not want to add affliction to your calamity; but29 we must say something about them: for this is our reason29A we30 why the Lord gave us this press; and if say nothing of their31 characters, nor expose their wicked deeds the world will enquire,32 "Why have they (the Saints) fled." Every article is generally inspected33 before it goes out. There are many errors in spelling which cannot34 be avoided yet, well the boys are young and it is not as it was with35 us1 four or five proofreaders, and with the incessant labor2 which is necessary for us to perform it could not be expected3 that everything would be perfect. We mean to observe the4 greatest caution in publishing your letters so as not to expose5 you to unnecessary danger and trouble. We did not think6 it advisable to publish the Governor's letter, if we had we7 should have had it out long ago. We have a letter from8 him to us, all which we keep till a proper time --9 William will probably be with you ere this arrives as he10 left on the 17th March. We were in great need of his help11 but as you wrote for him by the first of May, we dare not12 keep him any longer lest we might disappoint & do a12A we13 great injury. The first safe opportunity will send you14 the mould which bro. Martin got made. When we commence15 the Weekly paper we shall have to get another made, as

16 we design to work with rollers. I could give respects to17 all, but it is not needful to recite the names, for I have18 not room. When you write I wish you would say a19 few words about my wife.20 I am your brother (and shall ever be) in the new Covenant.21 Oliver Cowdery22 W. W. PhelpsLetters of Oliver Cowdery, p.39 - p.401 Kirtland, April 10, 18342 Dear brother John:3 Yours of the 26th ultima was received4 by the last evening's mail conveying $1O. with subscribers &c.5 You request a lengthy letter from some one of the brethren, but as6 many of them are absent, I concluded that unless I wrote myself you7 would not receive any from us now in the might of labor & toil for8 Zion. One of your requests can be complied with, that is, I here enclose9 you the revelations you asked for and if you should happen to leave10 the Post Office before breaking this open you will get it for single11 Postage as we have none printed on whole sheets left. Your letters to12 me are marked double postage, & when a part is paid I am under the13 necessity of breaking open the letter before the Postmaster, or pay the14 whole without saying anything. If a letter is overcharged and is opened15 in the presence of the P.M. and is single, the proper postage is only16 demanded. This is why I open yours. You wish to know who of the elders17 from this place may be expected from this place to attend the18 conference at Saco. We expect it will be bro. Greene. Had it not19 been for the afflictions of Zion, probably brother Joseph or Sidney20 would have attended; but now they cannot and it is not positive21 whether bro. Greene will or not. You will undoubtedly see that it is22 of but little consequence to proclaim the everlasting gospel to men23 and warn them to flee to Zion for refuge when there is no24 Zion but that which is in the possession of the wicked.25 So Zion must be redeemed, and then the saints can26 have a place to flee to for safety. In transmitting money to us27 you need not to be particular about sending U.S. paper. The notes28 on the Mo., Ct., R.I. or N.Y. banks if true are as current as the29 former. Brother Herriman & family are well as also bro. Holmes.30 The work is spreading considerably not withstanding the great31 calamity of Zion; and we look forward with full assurance of32 hope to the time when the kingdom will roll to the ends of the32A the33 earth and to the Islands of Sea.34 Please excuse my brevity in a press of business1 and remain assured that I am your brother in the new2 covenant. Oliver Cowdery.3 To John F. Boynton

4 P.S. Hurlbut the apostate has just been bound to keep the5 peace under $200. bond in the circuit court in this county6 for threatening the life of bro. Joseph Smith Jr. We are not in7 any fear that the Kingdom will be overthrown by him, and at a proper8 time he will be noticed in the Star.O.C.

================================================Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.40 - p.4110 To W. A. Cowdery11 Kirtland Mills, Ohio, Tuesday evening, April 29, 1834.12 Dear Brother:13 I have just received yours of the 21st April14 by the hand of bros. Pratt and Hyde who are both well.15 As appears you have been prevented visiting this country16 for the present in consequence of unforseen and uncontrolable events.17 Perhaps I had on my part anticipated too much happiness by18 receiving a visit from you: be this as it may; that which I19 have considered would not only be a source of consolation, but20 a blessing I am for the present deprived of. Your last to me,21 in my estimation is the most interesting of any heretofore recd:22 There is no subject like the subject of eternal life with22A my23 me. When I contemplate the past scenes of life, though I am24 oblige to regret my folly I cannot but admire - Yes, I25 render thanks to God for his wonderful condescention,26 in that he has given me to know the certainty of the27 acceptable way of life & salvation! You inform me28 in yours that you have received the highest possible29 testimony from man: This I do not doubt; but permit30 me, dear brother, (though here I am under the necessity of making31 apology because I am a youth & you are my elder brother) to32 recommend still a continuance in prayer and fasting before33 the Lord. Remember Moses fell down before the Lord &34 fasted forty days for Israel when they had sinned1 till God turned away his wrath! Our God is our Father2 & will hear if we faint not. I am of the opinion that an over3 anxiety of mind on temporal affairs often hinders our4 frequent desired communion with our Lord, and from knowled-5 ge. I am prepared to say that nothing short of a full surren-6 der to him will bring that peculiar blessing which we so7 often desire, that is, of obtaining witness from him.8 Upon the members of the house of Cornelius the Holy9 Spirit was poured out as was upon the disciples at10 Pentecost, & this previous to baptism; if your faith is11 like theirs, you will obtain the same, but if not,12 I would advise an obedience. You will see that your former13 profession was merely a hope, nothing sure, or else

14 you would not be at any loss to determine now. Men15 are justified when they live to what light they have,16 but when a greater is presented, God requires an obedience.17 Why is it that men are unwilling to embrace of life18 when it is offered freely: Because the remedy presented19 for the prince of Syria was simple, he despised it20 in his heart! So with men too frequently. But I am now21 more prolix than I had time at first, and I close by assuring22 you that my wishes for your welfare are indiscribable.23 Our parents & relations are well. I do not go to the24 west as I had expected, in consequence of business of25 printing. I wish I had one of your boys in our office:26 please write me on this subject. I should like27 but you will tell him for me that the systems of men are28 like the spider's web & have no strength to endure the29 great day of God Almighty, near at hand!30 Oliver Cowdery31 P.S. My love to our relations & friends.Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.42 - p.451 Kirtland, Ohio, May 4, 1834.2 Dear Elizabeth:3 You will no doubt be disappointed when you4 learn that I cannot come up with the brethren this season,5 and I can do no more than to urge a resignation on your6 part to the providence of our Lord, resting, as I have reason7 to believe you do, all things earthly or heavenly in his hands.8 I did expect to come, but the Lord has directed otherwise,9 and you know; that it would betray a weakness in me,10 too great to be overlooked, were I to follow my own natural11 feelings & desires & overlook the great requirement of God,12 to value his calls above every other consideration. I am aware,13 that I am standing in a far more responsible station in14 this church now, than I have ever heretofore, and of course,15 as the responsibility increases, my wisdom must increase16 in proportion, or else I must fall, and not only incur17 a stigma upon the cause but a disgrace upon myself, as18 well as my own personal friends which, perhaps, time would18A I19 be insufficient to erase. And if can know that you are20 willing to submit, cheerfully to the will of our heavenly--21 Father, my mind, in this respect, is releaved of a burden.22 I am deeply sensible of my own unworthiness, and my23 incapability to fill this important trust - I can say in24 truth, that the importance increases daily, as the work25 spreads, and more and more do I learn my own26 weakness, and more and more do I see the importance

27 of wisdom from above! I feel, my dear Elizabeth, as28 though, if faithful, the Lord will rule in his wisdom29 that I shall be an instrument (though unworthy) of leading30 many into his kingdom. No man, I presume to say,31 has a greater desire to dwell with his family than I have.32 I do, and always did; when I had the privilege, consider33 it one of the greatest temporal blessings ever bestowed upon34 mankind. So, I do not remain abscent from you because I do1 not desire your society but to be obedient to the commandments2 of heaven. You know my dear, that to resign would be committing3 a gross transgression, if I only did it to gratify an earthly or4 sensual desire; and so as unworthy as I am, there remains only5 one course for me to take, and that is, onward in obedience to the6 word of the Lord; and in this I have reason to believe that7 you use your influence in my behalf at a throne of grace.8 I expected you last fall and waited with inexpressable anxiety9 the return of bro. Gould & Hyde but I was disappointed, &10 had only to leave the event in the hands of God. I suffered11 a thought at the time that you were advised to stay under12 the idea that I should return; and am yet of the opinion13 that if your relatives had used their influence to have had14 you comply with my requests as much as they did for you to15 disregard them, I should ere this, been benefitted with your16 company in the management of the affairs of my house.17 I know that the maternal affections are binding, but18 these ought never to interfere between bone and bone. I19 mean, that the affections existing in consequence of family20 relationship, should never interfere so as to deprive a21 man from enjoying the society of his wife, because they22 are not as binding; for God has said that they twain23 that is the two shall be one flesh. Consequently then, there is24 a union in consequence of the marriage covenant that does25 not exist anywhere else. This I will prove to you by one26 sample - Christ is said to be the bridegroom and his Church27 is his bride, and he is to be married to his Church; that28 is, he is to be one with them, making them equal & like29 himself. No other being can be married to the church, because30 she is espoused to him; that is, the church has promised to be31 married to him, that is, to be united or joined with him so32 that they are one. Indeed, it is said that we shall be like33 him. Now, when the church is married to Christ, who34 will have power to say to his wife that she shall not act1 and comply in every particular, with all that he2 shall say? An if it were possible for the Lamb's wife3 to be persuaded to do contrary from his advice would he4 not have occasion for sorrow and grief? This, then, I

5 take for my sample, and urge, that when I make a6 reasonable request of my wife that no man stoop so far7 beneath his own standing in the estimation of heaven, as to7A me8 interfere and cause trouble unnecessarily. How the brethren9 could have supposed that I were to return last fall or10 this spring is unknown to me, as bro. Joseph wrote expr-11 essly by bros. Gould & Hyde, that it was the will of the12 Lord that I should tarry in Kirtland a season to do the13 work of printing, and brother John wrote me by bro.14 Orson that he expected that I should return in the15 spring. Whether they thought that brother Joseph16 was in an error when he wrote them the will of the17 Lord, or whether they forgot it, is not determined in my18 own mind fully, but I am inclined to think that brother19 John forgot, in his great anxiety to have me return.20 I longed to go back for I delighted to dwell upon the21 goodly land that I toiled so hard to find; and do now expect,22 yes, I have the promise if I am spared, & am faithful, of23 returning back to live in Zion; but I must be obedient24 to the commandments of the Lord. If I should go up to25 that consecrated land contrary to the will of the Lord, I26 should have no assurance of enjoying it: I should either27 be driven from it by enemies, or removed by death! So28 as I said before, there remains but one course for me29 to pursue, and that is, onward, in the directions given.30 It would be gratifying to me if I could live near your31 father & mother, where I might have the privilege of seeing32 them often; but I have to resign these desires for the33 present, and submit all to the Lord. Brother Joseph34 will bring you down and provide everything for your35 comfort. You may as well have the leave the most of your1 will be privileged with bringing your goods. You may as2 well leave the most of your crockery as it will be better3 to leave that than bring it so far. Should anything transpire4 to hinder brother Joseph from bringing you, he and brother5 Frederick will arrange that you may come with some one6 else, who will see that you are treated with kindness. So7 I shall expect you the latter part of the summer or fall. I7A the8 have forwarded you by the mail, Star, & paid the postage on8A it9 it here. So you would have none to pay there, I directed to the10 care of brother Peter, as I heard that he lived ln liberty.11 I close by entreating you still to be faithful, and12 remember, that the period will soon arrive, when we shall

13 meet in the presence of our Lord, and be separated no more.14 May the Lord bless you, father, Mother and all the family.15 Oliver Cowdery16 To Mrs. Elizabeth A. Cowdery

__________________________________________Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.45 - p.4617 Copy of a letter to John F. Boynton of Saco, Maine: written by18 Oliver Cowdery for the Presidency19 Kirtland, Ohio, May 6, 1834.20 Dear Brother:21 Circumstances are such that wisdom22 directs for bro. Greene to go to Canada, and we23 have counselled that bro. Jared Carter go to the east,24 to attend the conference at Saco. The object of bro.25 Jared's mission is principally to obtain subscriptions26 for the house of the Lord in Kirtland. He may advise27 concerning going to Zion also. We want you to28 travel & hold conferences in the churches with29 brother Jared & use your influence with his30 to obtain means for the purpose of building31 this house. We want you to understand that the1 Lord has not promised to endow his servants from on2 high only on the condition that they build him a3 house; and if the house is not built the Elders will4 not be endowed with power, and if they are not they5 can never go to the nations with the everlasting gospel.6 Within that house God will pour out his Spirit7 in great majesty and glory; and encircle his people8 with fire more gloriously and marvelously than at Pentecost,9 because the work to be performed in the last days is10 greater than was in that day. Therefore, all who11 desire let them make their covenant with Sacrifice,12 that they may be prepared against the day of burning.12a l13 The work is to be a short one and every facuty14 and tallent should be brought into requisition to15 forward the great work. You will see then, that16 you are required to use your best endeavors to17 forward the business, by assisting brother18 Jared with your labors.19 Your brethren in the new covenant.20 (Signed) " Sidney Rigdon, President H.P.21 (Signed) " N. K. Whitney, Bishop "22 (Signed) " Oliver Cowdery, High Counsellor "23 To John F. Boynton24 Saco, Maine

Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.47 - p.511 Copy of a circular to the Churches, written by Oliver Cowdery2 Dear Brethren:3 It becomes our duty to address you on the4 subject of immediately preparing, and journeying to the land of Zion to5 establish a place for the ransomed of the Lord, against the day when desolation6 and wrath shall be sent forth upon the wicked, and be poured out upon7 the nations that despise his promised rest, without measure. It is no8 doubt known to you, that a large number of our brethren have lately9 gone up for the deliverance of the afflicted Saints who have been disp-10 ossessed of their lands and homes by a lawless band of men who have11 risen up in defiance of all law, all equity, and all power, and taken12 the life of one, and sought the overthrow of all who have embraced13 the everlasting gospel in these last days. When these brethren14 have arrived in the vicinity, or as wisdom shall direct, they will wait15 for our brethren who have been driven out, to inform the governor of16 that State, that they are ready to go back to their lands. The Governor is17 bound to call out the militia and take them back and has informed18 our brethren of his readiness so to do previous to this time. When19 orders arrive from the Governor to the Military commanding Officers20 in that vicinity to guard our brethren back, then it is expected21 that all will march over the former residents as well as those now22 on the way. When they are on their own possessions, they have a right23 to defend themselves and property from destruction and spoilation, &24 be justified in sight of the laws of heaven & men. The company25 now on the way, with the scattered brethren when collected, will26 be sufficiently strong in the strength of the Lord to maintain the27 ground, after the Militia have been discharged, should those wicked28 men be desperate enough to come upon them. But we wish29 you to see the propriety of more numbers in this situation. For30 instance, ten men were to go back, the Mob would suppose31 that they could overpower them, and would be disposed to32 assault them, because they were few in number; but were33 there a large number, even so many that they (the mob) knew34 were sufficient, without the least difficulty to withstand35 them, it is consistent to forsee that they would be silent,0A either1 and flee the country entirely, or remain inoffensive.2 Many of our brethren have come forward on this occasion3 and manifested a true spirit of patriotism and of nobility4 becoming the saints of God, and the citizens of a free Government,5 and put their lives at stake, either to see our afflicted and6 dispersed brethren brought back to their homes, or die in7 the attempt. Greater love has no man, than to die for his8 friend - this is the last great act of love required in the law9 of Christ, and is stronger than every earthly consideration.

10 By this shall all men know that you are my disciples,11 said our Lord, because you love one another. A disciple is a12 follower - Christ laid down his life for his disciples, and if they13 are willing to do likewise they are his indeed. It is just that our14 brethren should be brought back, because they have15 purchased their lands without abusing or molesting any men,16 and they are free lawful Citizens of these states. Should we17 quietly submit to this abuse, none embracing this gospel18 would be safe in any part of our country; for the adversary18A would influence this19 of righteousness wicked generation to slay us wherever we could20 be found and we should be left without a place to lay our21 heads in safety. We have the right of citizenship and of the22 protection of the laws while we conduct ourselves circumsp-23 ectly, and God has never required that we should submit24 to these abuses without exacting ourselves against them. If25 we were to remain quiet, when our property and homes26 were taken from us by wicked men, where would our27 women, and our helpless infants look for support, and28 whether would they flee for protection? What, brethren, is29 now to be done? Our brethren have already stated, and with30 the protection and blessings of our Father will soon be permitt-31 ed to offer the sacrifice of praise upon the goodly heritages.32 Their numbers are such that we do not apprehend much33 danger except upon small parties the mob may attempt further34 violence for a season, as they now abuse our brethren when-35 ever they can find them in that county.1 Our brethren who have now started on this arduous journey2 have a small supply of money, and as the crops of wheat which3 were put in last fall by our dispersed brethren are in all probab-4 ility, destroyed, the whole company who may remain after our5 brethren are taken back will be obliged to purchase till grain6 can be raised which will be one year from june till wheat harvest.7 It will be unsafe for our brethren to labor for hire among8 that people after they return, so you see in what situation9 they will be placed unless our brethren abroad rise up and10 put forth their hands to assist in the name of the Lord. That11 county abounds with bread stuff which can be purchased12 very low, and with the assistance which our brethren abroad13 are able to render, the goodly land can be sustained and the14 saints be established to rejoice forever.15 The privilege of being among those who redeem and prepare16 the land, upon which unborn generations are to rejoice in the17 salvation of God, ought to inspire every heart, and stimulate18 every saint to action in the great work. Our brethren should19 remember that it is not the work of a few days, but that they

20 are laying the foundation of an order of things which is to21 remain while time endures. And what can be more pleasing22 than the reflection that by our diligence we prepare a23 habitation and place of security where our children can be24 preserved amid the shock which is to dissolve the nations?25 Many of our brethren who have gone up for the deliverance of26 Zion have families in this country, and will be under the27 necessity of returning when Zion is redeemed. So you can see the28 necessity of more following immediately, that the company be29 not weaked so as to give the enemy the power to drive them30 again. We therefore advise that our brethren make immediate31 preparations, gather up their effects and go forth and join32 the brethren in the west as soon as circumstances may33 admit. No time should be lost - the love you have for your34 brethren calls for this act immediately, the ties of the new covenant35 demand it, and your little ones claim at your hands a place of refuge while0A brother1 it is in your power to secure it. Let the into whose hands2 this circular may come immediately show it to the brethren in this3 vicinity and let them dispose of their property (such as they cannot carry)4 and gather in upon the consecrated land. We do not wish you to5 understand by this, that we advise you to be hasty or wasteful, but let6 such as can, start immediately, and the others make preparations7 to follow. The Lord has said, that there was abundant money in8 his church to establish the places where he had appointed his to9 gather so that no power of the enemy could overthrow them; and10 while some journey to the land of Zion, others can help strengthen the11 stake at Kirtland and we can see the work of our father greatly prosper12 while all enemies are put to silence. Our brethren will be obliged13 to go in companies of several families in order to be safe after14 they arrive near the state of Missouri; as the mob might fall15 upon one or two families and destroy them before they could obtain16 assistance. As is to be expected, many of the mob will17 leave the country for fear of being brought to justice, and of18 course, will seek to annoy the Saints wherever they can find them.19 You will see the necessity also of providing sufficient20 weapons to defend yourselves in case of an attack. Our brethren,21 living in the east, need make but little delay after they are22 ready as there are many churches and by going on they can23 fall in with some others who may be going from there; but24 they should not advance too far west, without joining a25 company where they are from twelve to twenty able to use arms26 in self defense. In all that we have said, brethren, we do not27 urge anything contrary to good order. Let good order28 prevail in all your proceedings, we beseech you; for29 by so doing you are sure to prosper. When you journey

30 remember you are saints, and let your deportment show31 to all who are disposed to look upon you, that you are32 truly what you profess to be, the children of God. Remember33 the commandments and live peaceably with all, if possible1 but reflect on all occasions, that you are citizens of a2 free country, and are entitled to all its privileges as such.3 We say, may the Lord bless you while we subscribe ourselves4 your brethren in the bonds of the new covenant.

Amen.5 (Signed) " Sidney Rigdon "6 (Signed) " Oliver Cowdery "7 Kirtland Ohio May 10, 1834Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.51 - p.528 Copy of a letter from Oliver Cowdery to Hon. John A.9 Bryan, of Columbus, Ohio.10 Dated Kirtland, O. Oct. 15, 183511 Dear Sir: Having seen your name announced in some12 of our public journals as a candidate for our next Gover-13 nor, I have thought there could be no impropriety in ad-14 dressing you on that subject.15 Would you accept a nomination from your friends16 provided they in their judgement made you their choice,17 in the State Convention, to be held on the 8th of Jan. next.18 Do not think, Sir, that this question is put with any other19 than the best of feeling, both political and personal for20 I entertain for you a very high esteem. You are, if I21 mistake not, a New Yorker, an acquaintance of a brother22 of mine, now resident in Cataraugus Co. N.Y. He gave me23 to understand so while in this place last summer.24 I should be pleased if I could give you the full return25 of votes in our county, but cannot. Our town has done26 her duty - out of about 200 votes we give a majority of27 about 75. If the sister towns have done the same we are28 triumphantly ahead; but this is not expected - our County29 has long been the prey of factious aristocrats. However,30 we have some little prospect, as the opposition were divided.31 The Democracy of the county met in Convention on the32 10th and appointed their State delegation - I am one of33 that number; and if permitted by Providence shall probably34 be in your place on the 8th January. Our delegations, I1 believe are firm democrats and will pull with the2 party.3 As I design this for a private communication, I be-4 lieve you will do me the favor of keeping it so. At our5 convention on the 10th a resolution was introduced in-6 structing the delegation to give their vote for Mr. Baldwin -

7 -this was previous to the selection of delegates. I opposed8 the resolution as being premature: that we did not9 know who might be brought before the public by10 the 8th of Jan. &c. This I was induced to do from vari-11 ous consideration. It is my political faith that the12 representative is to be instructed by the people; but I be-13 lieve that to instruct them before they or even the re-14 presentative have a knowledge of the thing about15 which the community is or is to be concerned, is unwise.16 Upon this matter, then, I am perfectly free, and if cal-17 led upon to give my voice for an individual for our18 next Governor, shall act conscientiously in giving it19 in favor of one of our most strait forward democratic20 friends.21 Accept assurances of my esteem22 while I say I am your obt. Servt23 O. Cowdery24 To Hon. John A. Bryan25 columbus, O.26 P.S. You have probably seen the "Northern Times" -27 that paper is under my care and direction.28 Yours in great haste, O.C.29 Could you furnish me with a copy of the "Ohio30 Life Insurance and Trust Company's" Charter? If31 you can you will greatly favor a friend.32 I hereby certify the foregoing to be a true copy from33 the original.34 I. M. Carrel, RecorderLetters of Oliver Cowdery, p.531 Copy of a letter from Oliver Cowdery to Hon. William2 Kenmore, Mem. Cov. of St. Clairsville, Belmont Co. Ohio.3 Dated Kirtland, O. Oct. 15, 18354 Dear Sir: Not having a personal acquaintance with you,5 I cannot address you as a personal friend, but from a6 knowledge of your political character, I may without7 hesitancy, as a firm supporter of correct principles and8 a member of the great Democratic family. You are aware9 that the time for the selection of a person to be held up10 for the suffrages of the republicans of the state, is fast11 approaching, and that those who are selected by the sev-12 eral counties to attend in Convention on the 8th of January13 next will have to act in that responsible station. The14 democracy of the Reserve are looking with intense inter-15 est to that time, and already is the spirit of inquiry awake16 -- Who is to be the favored son that shall be named by that17 body as worthy our confidence? Mr. Baldwin of Trumbule

18 has been named and others in different sections of the19 State. What objection, sir, would there be in your mind a-20 gainst accepting a nomination from that convention?21 Would you accept?22 Our election is now closed, but I am unable to give23 you the result. Our town gave a heavy majority - others24 heard from gave small ones, but we have a powerful op-25 position.26 I forward you a copy of the "Northern Times", - I have the27 management of that paper. You will see by it, if not in this28 number, in the next, that I am one of the delegation to29 the State Convention.30 Believe me to be, Sir,31 Your friend and ob't Serv't32 O. Cowdery.33 Hon. Willaim Kenmore34 St. Clairsville, O.35 A true copy from the original I. M. Carrel, Rec.Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.541 Kirtland, Oct. 15, 183523 Dear Brother:4 I have not addressed your for a long5 time--Franklin has gone down, and undoubtedly6 told you more than I can write, and besides I am7 always in a hurry. Will you let me have another of8 your boys? I want one still younger than Franklin,9 to do chores &c. about the house and office. If you will10 let me have one I will, with the ability that the Lord11 shall give, do well by him, and in due time learn12 him the printing art. I am wearied with boys who have13 never been taught. I can have boys here, very good14 ones, I believe, but I prefer one of my relatives. If the15 Lord prospers me I shall do well by those who live with16 me, and I rather bestow that upon my relatives than17 others when they claim equally. Our duty to our own18 flesh is first felt: This is right. I shall not engage a19 boy for a length of time till I hear from you.20 My wife is some afflicted with sore breasts, but our21 babe is well. Pray for us, dear brother, that we may find22 grace in the eyes of the Lord. We are all about as usu-23 al, and the work of our God still progressing. May the24 Lord bless you and your family -- I often see them in25 night visions -- if they are faithful they will be blessed.26 I feel anxious for Marcellous--I have whisperings that27 his pride keeps him from the kingdom. May the Lord

28 bless our sister Sally, and encourage her heart to perse-29 vere. I hope our brother Howlet will not much lon-30 ger put away the convictions of the truth. He had better31 sell his possessions in Freedom and go to Missouri.32 Yours as ever, Oliver Cowdery33 To presiding Elder W. A. Cowdery34 A true copy from the original. I. M. Carrel, Rec.Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.551 Letter written by Oliver Cowdery of Kirtland, O. to Dr. S.2 Avord, of Beaver, Pa. Dated3 Kirtland, O. Oct. 22, 1835.4 Dear Sir:5 By requesting, my friend has given me the opportu-6 nity of occupying a space. I cannot in justice, let an occa-7 sion pass unimproved when I see a prospect, or think I see8 one, of benefitting one of my fellow men. I must apologise9 for the short space occupied by my friend, as to answer every10 communication with a lengthy letter would be impossible, we11 therefore, when requested, forward our paper, which develops,12 in short, our principles, or at least, our views with regard to13 the first principles of the gospel: when we do this, generally, we13A can14 do no more, except our friends from abroad, as many do, visit15 this society, and learn from what they here see, &c. more exten-16 sively, our faith. We believe, in short, in God, and in a Savior17 Jesus Christ: we believe that all men must repent (if they are18 saved) for all have sinned; and that salvation is free for19 all. We believe that when we please God he will manifest20 the same to us by his Spirit, the ministering of angels, or his21 own voice. We believe if we endure faithful to the end we22 shall be saved. We believe in the scriptures of the Old &23 New Testaments, and the Book of Mormon. We believe that God24 never had a church on earth without manifesting his will25 to that church; and we believe that the salvation of men was26 never left in that vague way that we must grope our way27 through this life upon uncertainties and doubts. We know that28 we are built upon the Rock, the word of truth, and that God29 has called upon his creatures in the last days preparatory to the30 time when he will come in the clouds of heaven.31 Excuse haste and believe me to be, sir, your friend and ob't32 servt. Oliver Cowdery33 Mess. and Adv. Office, Oct. 22, 1835.34 To Dr. S. Avord35 Beaver, Pa. A true copy from the original, I.M. Carrel,35A Rec.Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.56

1 Kirtland, O. Oct. 26, 18352 Dear Sir:-3 Since the return of elder Bishop I have4 conversed on the subject of your son's biography. I have5 slightly perused those extracts which he brought - they6 breathe the same spirit I expected they would - calm-7 ness, sincerity, virtue, godliness and truth. In short, they8 are what he was, righteous! I am unprepared to advise9 on the subject of your publishing all his letters, though10 I presume they might be obtained, and I believe he11 always took copies. If he has left a large circle of friends12 in the east, who would feel interested, sales might by13 made to warrant a publication; but if not, under present14 existing circumstances of the church to which he belong-15 ed, it is my opinion that the expenditures would hard-16 ly be realized. I hope, however, you will act independent-17 ly as I do not wish to urge this matter, and then you be a18 sufferer, neither do I wish to say anything whereby the feel-19 ings of a tender parent may be wounded, or his hopes, over20 the memory of a lovely son, blighted: May God direct you21 in this thing. I deem it my duty to yet give (should you22 not put his letters into the hands of the public) a biography,23 though it may be short, of my brother in the Lord, with whom24 I spent so many hours in holy and sacred communion,25 who considered his life not dear to himself, but offered it26 up to God - who has been taken from the bosom of a society27 who esteemed him as a priest of righteousness. And my28 sincere prayer is, that you, with myself, may meet him29 in the kingdom of our Redeemer!30 With sentiments of esteem, I subscribe myself your friend31 truly. Oliver Cowdery32 To Eli Gilbert, Esq.33 A true Copy from the original, I.M.C.33A R.34 P.S. Should you think proper - you may communicate35 such suggestions as may occur to your mind. O.C.Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.291 Kirtland, O. Oct. 28, 18352 Dear Sir: Yours of the 16th is received. You say you are unable3 to teach only the rudiments of the Hebrew - such being the4 fact, I am instructed by the committee, for whom I corres-5 pond, to say, that your services will not be wanted. It is not6 sir, out of disrespect that I say this -- we have those who are7 able to teach the rudiments of the Hebrew; but we wished8 an accomplished scholar -- such as one could find en-9 couragement here - do you know, sir, where, or to whom, I may

10 address and be accommodated?11 Your kindness on the subject of grammars and Lexicons12 is appreciated.13 We do not wish to employ a teacher in the other languages14 this winter.15 Your friend elder Young is here - he saw your com-16 pliment, and returns assurances of friendship.17 Respectfully, your Ob't Serv't18 O. Cowdery19 To Lucius Parker20 Southborough, Mass.21 A true copy from the original - I. M. Carrel, Rec.Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.58 - p.601 Letter from I. M. Carrel to R. M. Williams, Esq. P.M.2 of Potter, N.Y. Dated3 Kirtland, O. Oct. 29, 1835.4 Dear Sir:- Your kind and flattering letter of the 21st5 came duly to hand on yesterday, for which I pray you to6 accept my unfeigned thanks.7 I perceive by yours, that my first led you into error.8 We do not intend resting our claims to the Post Office, and9 the removal of the prescrit Whig incumbant on mere party10 grounds. I think, when our petition is got up, we will be11 able to show that he is unworthy of the responsible station he12 occupies, from his gross neglect of duty, and disqualified for13 the office, from a total want of the capacities required to per-14 form the duties incumbent upon a man who is a servant of15 the people, especially in an office of the description in question.16 That he leaves his office, in times when his duty requires he17 should be there; and leaves it in the care of a woman!18 That when he is in his office, he is entirely destitute of19 that spirit of accommodation and gentlemanly deportment20 towards those having business in the office, that should char-21 acterize the conduct of every man who is living on the boun-22 ty of the government - and who is put into that station for the23 express accommodation of the public!24 That his political feelings lead him to treat those who25 are antipodes in Sentiment, with marked indignity and26 contempt, whenever opportunity offers, in the transaction of27 business:28 That his capacities are in every respect too meagre to29 enable him to conduct the affairs of his office with credit30 to himself,- with benefit to the Department, or with satisfaction31 to the sovereign people.32 On yesterday, the day on which our regular mail should33 have been here - he was absent - and on that account our

34 mall had to lie over till today - thereby depriving us of35 our facilities for sending out and receiving important36 intelligence.1 P.S. He has not yet returned! May the day soon2 come, when our free and happy country, shall no longer3 be disgraced by such officers!4 I have now given you a short outline of the causes that5 actuate the citizens of this village in their wish for the remo-6 val of the present incumbent. And now, let me give you7 a brief view of the whys and wherefores that lead us to8 petition for the appointment of Mr. Oliver Cowdery.9 He is a gentleman whose business habits and qualifications10 fit him for a much higher station than the one spoken11 of; but his ambition is not by any means commensurate12 with his abilities, -- and therefore it is more for the satisfaction13 of the public mind in this place that he is brought forward14 than from any particular wish on his part to undertake the15 duties of the station.16 And he is a man, who, let what will come, will faithfully17 and impartially discharge the duties of whatever situation in18 which he may be placed.19 And his bland and gentlemanly deportment, and manly20 bearing toward those whom business or inclination brings in-21 to contact with him, are so universally known and ack-22 nowledged, that he has been endeared himself to all who23 have the pleasure of his acquaintance.24 I have not time to add more at present, but believe25 me to be your friend and ob't serv't.26 Ias. M. Carrel27 F. M. Williams, Esq.28 P.S. I yesterday had a letter from our mutual friend,29 Col. Cable, of New Lisbon - he is in tolerable health.30 N.B. We are going to have a majority of 20 on joint ballot31 in our Legislature this winter.32 Farewell to Whigism in Ohio, for the present, at least.33 Dr. Sir. One important item in the mal-administration34 of office by our P.M. is the neglecting to publish his35 list of letters quarterly - instead of having it inserted1 in a newspaper (and the "Times" is published almost at2 his own door) he writes them off and sticks a copy up3 in the tavern - whereas, if they were inserted in a4 public paper, printed in the village, almost every5 man in it could see when there was a letter for him,6 without running to a tavern to hunt up his written7 list of letters.8 No other cause can be assigned for this neglect,

9 than is to be found in his mean and niggardly con-10 duct generally, toward his political opponents.11 I.M.C.12 F. M. W. Esq. - A true copy. I. M. Carrel, Rec.

================================================Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.6013 Kirtland, Geauga Co. O. Oct. 30, 183514 Dear Sir: The Hartford Times of the 19th inst. publishes the15 death of Mrs. Ursula C. Cowdery of your place. If the de-16 ceased had relatives will you have the politeness to either17 inform me her husband's name, with such other information18 on the subject of the respective relatives as yourself would19 deem satisfactory, were you desirous of obtaining an ac-20 count of progenitors and descendants? Or hand this to21 some one of the name, who will please give me the above22 information? - the latter would be the most desirable.23 I am, Sir, your Ob't Serv't.24 O. Cowdery.25 To the Post Master26 Hartford, Ct.27 A True copy from the original, I. M. Carrel, Rec.Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.61 - p.621 Kirtland, O. Oct. 30, 1835.2 Dear Sir: You will excuse the intrusion of a stranger,3 while I congratulate you upon the give cap of our late4 elections in this State. I think I may say, safely, that the5 last past will decide, or have a great bearing upon our6 next, when we give our voice for electors of President and7 Vice President. Our last Legislature was opposition - now8 we have so far triumphed that I think, without doubt,9 we shall have a majority on joint ballot of twenty. This10 will secure democratic offices in the gift of that body11 and will so far give an impetus to the great republican12 wheel in this State that it will gather new force and13 rapidly roll on till 1837 shall say to the Union - Ohio14 has done her duty!15 Understand me, in this private communication, to be16 your particular and warm friend, and as such shall17 use every laudable means to effect your elevation to18 that dignified station to which you have been recom-19 mended as a candidate.20 Though our county (Geauga) is opposition, yet there are21 many who will do their duty so far as regards the great22 interest of the cause of democracy.23 When the opposition press first began their vilifacation24 upon your character, your enemies in this section seiz-

25 ed upon it with the determined fury of panthers, thinking26 by that means to effect an entire overthrow of the cause27 of correct principles in this part of the State; but they28 were met with a determined front by the democracy,29 and have, for the first time, in several counties on30 the Reserve been beaten. This I consider an accession31 to our cause worthy of note.32 Our State votes by general ticket - the democratic33 State Convention meets at Columbus on the 8th of Jan. next,34 when electors will be selected, and I have no doubt but the35 result of our next election will give the nominees of the1 Baltimore Convention an overwhelming majority.2 I also forward you the Northern Times, formerly edited3 by myself, - now under my direction: and hope in the mean-4 time, I may be favored with a communication (private) from5 you on the subject of our next important election.6 Accept, dear Sir, appearances of my esteem,7 while I say I am your ob't serv't.8 O. Cowdery9 To Hon. R. M. Johnson10 Great Crossing, Scott Co. Ky.11 (A true copy from the Original, I. M. Carrel, Rec.)

________________________________________________Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.6212 Dear Sir:--13 If we insert Dr. Piescotte's very interesting Lecture14 in this week's Times, we must have it tomorrow - if you15 cannot furnish a copy by the return mail, please drop16 me a line, whether or not we can have it soon - say in17 season to publish in our next, and I will notice the18 fact in this paper.19 Respectfully your ob't serv't.20 O. Cowdery21 To I. M. Henderson, Esq.22 P.M. Willoughby, O23 Times Office, Monday Evening,24 Nov. 2, 1835.25 P.S. Will you have the politeness to inform Dr.26 Piescotte that I dome espect to leave for New York27 in a day or two. O.C.28 A true copy from the original I. M. Carrel,28A Rec.Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.631 Kirtland, Ohio, Nov. 22, 1835.2 Dear Brother:3 I have been prevented from addressing you

4 of late through a multitude of labor, besides I have just5 returned from N. Y. city, whither I went to purchase a book-6 binding establishment and stock, and also a quantity of7 Hebrew books for the school. The Lord preserved me and I ar-8 rived home on the 20th, after two weeks absence. My family9 and the brethren are well. Since my return I have received10 two letters from you - dated the 3rd and the other the 10th11 inst. I was glad to hear from you by letter though Franklin12 informed me you were well. I believe the church is prospering13 as usual - the hard finish is nearly all on the house, and14 the lower part (inside ) is nearly plastered.15 On the subject of another of your boys: I did not much ex-16 pect you could spare me one, but I knew there was no harm17 in asking. The Lord bless you and your family and direct you18 in all things. Do not be discouraged. We are nearer to him,19 perhaps, very often than we are aware - you know it became20 us to have such a high priest, who could be touched with the21 feelings of our infirmities. I saw Stephen & family in Buffalo -22 they have been driven from their house by the wind and water -23 their house was demolished and much of their furniture24 lost, but they escaped, and they are not discouraged. Stephen25 says he is doing well - never as well. I did intend calling26 on br. Lyman, but could not consistently. I went on a few27 hour's warning and was obliged to return in haste.28 While in New York I became quite intimately acquainted29 with a learned Jew, with whom I held several conversations -30 one very interesting: At some other time, not far distant, I31 will give you the outlines - it may be interesting to you.32 There are a large number of Jews in N. Y. - they have some three or four33 Synagogues - their worship is performed in the Hebrew language. The Lord34 bless you. As ever, Oliver Cowdery35 To Pres. Eld. W. A. Cowdery P.S. Say to your daughter Mary & Martha36 that I received their present. [A true copy. I. M. Carrel, Rec.Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.64 - p.651 Kirtland, Ohio, Nov. 25, 18352 My dear Sir: In my last I mentioned the fact that our3 democracy holds a State Convention the 8th of January next4 for the purpose of nominating a person for the office of Gov.5 and also forming an electoral ticket, but did not say that6 myself was one of that delegation. I look for deep interest, as the7 proceeding of the same will have a great tendency to effect8 the republican cause. My former letter will be sufficient,9 without my saying in this, that it will be my duty to use my10 abilities for a selection of proper persons for electors - men11 that will not sell their friends nor deceive those who im-12 pose confidence in them.

13 You may think, sir, that from a stranger, there is af-14 fectedness in this - be assured there is none. In a county con-15 vention last spring, I was one of a committee to report resolu-16 tions expressive of the views of the same - and through my in-17 fluence yourself was favorably named for the Vice Presidency,18 and our delegate to the National Convention instructed to use19 his ability for your nomination. I name this fact because few,20 if any, instances of the kind transpired in our State, so long be-21 fore the assembling of that Convention.22 I have just returned from a tour through the State of23 New York - on my way home I fell in company, on the24 Packet, with a Mr. McLain, as I was told, Judge McLain of25 Washington. I must say, I think him to be one of the most26 vilifying characters I ever met. He is opposed to the present27 Administration, and speaks in the most bitter manner of28 yourself. He makes great pretensions to intimacies with29 our most distinguished citizens, and of the secrets of political30 maneuvering. It may be he pretends friendship - if so, beware31 of him - he is your enemy! I think he is travelling the32 country on electioneering purposes - He speaks highly of Gen.33 Harrison, Danl. Webster, H. Clay & I may add, of every34 man who has abused the democracy of our country.1 I may add that yours of the 12th inst. is received, and2 duly appreciated.3 Excuse haste, while I assure you, sir I am4 Your friend O. Cowdery.5 To the Hon. R. M. Johnson,6 Washington, D.C.7 A true copy from the original - I. M. Carrel, Rec.

______________________________________________________Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.658 Kirtland, Ohio, Nov. 24, 18359 Dear Sir: Having just returned from a tour through the State10 of New York, during which I became acquainted with a Mr.11 McLain, said to be Judge McLain of Washington city. Now, sir,12 if you will inform me whether you are or not acquainted with13 the gent, you will confer a favor. He made great pretensions14 to knowledge of political matters, not failing to vilify and scan-15 dalize every prominent democrat in the country. I believe he16 is travelling on electioneering purposes - He pretends great17 friendship to Gen. Harrison - it may be to yourself also - be18 assured, sir he is not your friend!19 I learn from a gent. in Indiana, that the friends of Gen.20 Harrison are pressing his claims before the public, but he21 expresses no fears: I think Ohio is safe - we have a large22 majority in our Legislature this session, besides, you are

23 gaining friends in this section daily.24 An answer to the above will be greatfully received.25 Accept assurances of my esteem while I26 say I am your ob't Serv't27 O. Cowdery.28 Hon. M. Van Buren29 Washington, D.C.30 A true copy from the original, - I. M. Carrel, Rec.Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.661 Kirtland, Dec. 14, 18352 Dear Brother:3 Some days ago I received a letter from you4 covering $10 - directed to the Committee of the House - I5 send a receipt.6 I have not written you of late as often as formerly:7 but this is not because I do not as often think of you. We8 are now making arrangements to soon commence the study9 of Hebrew. I wish you were here to do likewise. I expect10 that Profess. Piescotte from New York will teach, but am11 not certain. If he does not we can have another gent. by12 writing to N.Y. I have not yet found time to write to13 you on my conversation with that Jew, but shall re-14 member my promise.15 All things go on here about as usual - the house is16 being finished.17 On the subject of your moving, I can say nothing more18 than I have - I shall again talk with elder Groves,19 and when br. Hyde comes, with him also. I am not cast20 down, on this matter, for I believe the Lord will open21 a way. I repeat again, I wish you were here to study22 Heb. but if you will take my advice, you will use23 every leisure opportunity in reviewing your Latin.24 My family are well - father and family are also well.25 Yours as ever Oliver Cowdery26 To Presiding Elder W. A. Cowdery.27 A true copy from the original, -- I. M. Carrel, Rec.Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.671 Kirtland, Ohio, Dec. 15, 18352 Dear Brother in the Lord:3 Yours of the 30th ultimo was received a few4 days since, but owing to account of business I have delayed till5 now to answer. I made enquiry on the subject of your coming to6 this place to establish yourself as Botanic Physician. We are a7 people who design living near the Lord, that our bodies may be8 healed when we are sick, for a general rule, though our faith9 is yet weak, being young, weak and surrounded by a wicked en-

10 ticing world - When, however, we have need of an earthly phy-11 sician, and in many instances we have, we call upon our12 highly esteemed friend and brother Dr. F. G. Williams, universally13 known through this country as an eminent and skilful man.14 I may say in short, he is also a Botanic physician - which course15 of practice is generally approved by us. I expect, however, that16 he will go to the west next spring. As to your philosophical lectu-17 ring I have nothing to say, only I do not think you would18 meet with encouragement here at present, as the elders are19 busily engaged in other studies, - some in the Hebrew, and some in20 the English. As the church, or many of them, will probably go to21 the west in the spring, I do not think your lady would meet with22 success in attempting to establish a female school.23 As I had only a few moments to occupy, I have been very short,24 but do not think that I have answered all your enquiries in the ne-25 gative out of disrespect - far from this: it is because I do not want to dis-26 appoint any one, and have therefore written without disguise &27 believe you when you say it is not for the sake of coveting the profits of a28 school, &c. I am a lover of science, and admire a spirit to learn and29 a disposition to teach, and I can bear the same testimony concerning30 the heads of this church. I believe the day is not far distant when this church31 will be inferior to no society in our country, in point of intelligence, learn-32 ing and science. ¶ Elder Orson Pratt is attending the Elder's school, and33 will soon commence the Hebrew. ¶ May the Lord give you wisdom and34 prudence in all your undertakings. Most respectfully your brother35 in the Lord, Oliver Cowdery36 To Dr. S. Avord.Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.68 - p.741 Kirtland, Geauga County, Ohio, Dec. 22, 18352 Dear Brother in the Lord: I have just been favored with a pe-3 rusal of a letter written by yourself the 8th of October last, to4 Elder Elisha H. Groves, now in this place. Elder Groves has5 been absent since the 15th of Oct. till a few day past on a6 mission, in company with Elder G. M. Hinkle - The Lord worked7 with them, and they were instrumental in bringing 21 persons8 into the kingdom, leaving many others believing and fa-9 vorably disposed toward this great work. Very probable the10 last mentioned fact is the reason why yours of the 8th11 Oct. has not been previously answered; and you will for-12 give this intrusion (if one it may be called) as I partly answer13 yours by request from others, and the remainder from a14 desire to form a more intimate acquaintance with you,15 thinking perhaps that through your ability others of our bre-16 thren in your section may be benefitted with intelligence17 from us. Some time since brother J. Whitmer, if I mistake not18 received a letter from you covering $5. Bro. W. requested me to an-

19 swer it, but I have hitherto been prevented by an absence from20 home, and a press of business. I mention the last that you may21 be made acquainted with the fact that your money was duly22 received. I have said that said letter was to bro. J. Whitmer -23 it might have been to Elder Groves - At any rate the money24 was received and has been passed to your credit.25 Yours of the 8th Oct. furnishes matter of importance. You26 say truly when you say, "Verily, this is a great and mar-27 vellous work indeed". Others may be endowed with a superior28 ability to myself, and thereby be the better qualified to appre-29 ciate the great condescension of our God in lighting up30 this earth once more with rich intelligence from his pre-31 sence, by the ministering of his holy angels and by his own32 voice. Be this as it may, with the ability I have I endeavor to33 be thankful.34 That the Lord should again manifest something for35 the benefit of man in the last days is perfectly consistent1 and so exactly accords with that written by the holy proph-2 ets and apostles, that it is apparent to me, that none can3 reject the fullness of the gospel, except such as are lead4 by an influence other than heavenly, or wilful blind-5 ness. But so it is, and yet the work spreads and prospers.6 And considering the weak instruments engaged to7 spread it, it cannot but be acknowledged that the hand8 of our God is put forth, to roll on his work, his strange9 work, in the eyes of the nations. My sincere prayer is that10 I may be fully qualified by his grace, to do the part11 assigned me, that I may stand when he appeareth.12 In yours is contained something of a temporal na-13 ture, such as this will occupy a portion of the close. I14 will first notice the spiritual.15 Upon the subject of the Egyptian records or rather the writings16 of Abraham and Joseph, I may say a few words. This Record is17 beautifully written in papayrus with black, and a small part,18 red ink or paint, in perfect preservation. The characters are19 such as you find upon the coffins of mummies, hieroglyphics, &c.20 with many characters or letters exactly like the present, (though21 perhaps not quite so square) form of the Hebrew, without points.22 These records were obtained from one of the catacombs in Egypt,23 near the place where once stood the renowned city of Thebes, by24 the celebrated French traveller Antonio Lebolo, in the year 1831.25 He procured license from Mehemet Ali, then Viceroy of Egypt, un-26 der the protection of Chevalier Drovetti, the French Consul, in the27 year 1828; employed 433 men four months and two days (if I28 understood correctly, Egyptian or Turkish soldiers) at from four29 to six cents per diem, each man; entered the catacomb June

30 7th, 1831, and obtained eleven Mummies. There were several31 hundred Mummies in the same catacomb: about one hundred em-32 balmed after the first order, and deposited and placed in niches,33 and two or three hundred after the second and third order, and34 laid upon the floor or bottom of the ground cavity, the two last35 orders of embalmed were so decayed that they could not be1 removed, and only eleven out of the first, found in the niches.2 On his way from Alexandria to Paris he put in at Trieste,3 and after ten days illness, expired. This was in the year 1832.4 Previous to his decease, he made a will of the whole to Mr.5 Michael H. Chandler, then in Philadelphia, Pa. his nephew whom6 he supposed to have been in Ireland. Accordingly the whole were7 sent to Dublin, addressed according, and Mr. Chandler's friends8 ordered them sent to New York, where they were received at the9 custom house in the winter or spring of 1833. In April of the same10 year Mr. Chandler paid the duties upon his Mummies, and took11 possession of the same. Up to this time they had not been taken out12 of the coffins nor the coffins opened. On opening the coffins he13 discovered that in connection with two of the bodies, were14 something rolled up with the same kind of linnen, saturated15 with the same bitumen, which, when examined, proved to be16 two rolls of papyrus, previously mentioned. I may add that17 two or three other small pieces of papyrus, with astronomical18 calculations, epitaphs, &c. were found with others of the Mum-19 mies.20 When Mr. Chandler discovered that there was something with21 the Mummies, he supposed, or hoped it might be some diamonds22 or other valuable metal, and was no little chagrined when23 he saw his disappointment. He was immediately told, while24 yet in the Custom House, that there was no man in that city,25 who could translate his roll; but was referred by the same26 gentleman (a stranger) to Mr. Joseph Smith, Jr. who, continued26A had27 he, possesses some kind of power or gifts by which he previ-28 ously translated similar characters. Bro. Smith was then un-29 known to Mr. Chandler, neither did he know that such a book30 or work as the record of the Nephites had been brought before the31 public. From New York he took his collection to Philadelphia, where32 he exhibited them for a compensation. The following is a certificate33 put into my hands by Mr. Chandler, which he obtained while in Philadelphia34 and will show the opinion of the scientific of that city:1 "Having examined with considerable attention and deep interest,2 a number of Mummies from the Catacomb, near Thebes, in Egypt, &3 now exhibiting in the Arcade, we beg leave to recommend then4 to the observation of the curious inquirer on subject of a period5 so long elapsed; probably not less than three thousand years ago the

6 features of some of these mummies are in perfect expression. The pa-7 pyrus covered with black or red ink, or paint, in excellent preser-8 vation, are very interesting. The undersigned, unsolicited by any9 person connected by interest with this exhibition, have voluntarily10 set their names hereunto, for the simple purpose of calling the11 attention of the public to an interesting collection, not sufficiently12 known in this city."13 Signed "John Redman Cone, M.D., E. H. Rivinus, M.D., Richard Harlan,14 M.D., J. Pencoat, M.D., Wm. P. E. Barton, M.D., Samuel G. Morgan, M.D."15 "I concur in the above sentiments, concerning the collection of16 Mummies in the Philadelphia Arcade, and consider them highly17 deserving the attention of the curious." (Signed) W. E. Horner, M.D."18 While Mr. Chandler was in Philadelphia, he used every exertion19 to find some one who could give him the translation of his papyrus,20 but could not satisfactorily, though from some few men of the first em-21 inence, he obtained in a small degree, the translation of a few22 characters. Here he was referred to bro. Smith. From Philadelphia he23 visited Harrisburgh, and other places east of the mountains, and24 and was frequently referred to bro. Smith for a translation of his25 Egyptian Relic.26 It would be beyond my purpose to follow this gentleman in27 his different circuits to the time he visited this place, the last of28 June, or first of July, at which time he presented bro. Smith with29 his papyrus. Till then neither myself nor brother Smith knew of30 such relics being in America. Mr. Chandler was told that his31 writings could be decyphered, and very politely gave me a32 privilege of copying some four or five different sentences or33 separate pieces, stating at the same time, that unless he34 found someone who could give him a translation soon,35 he would carry them to London.1 I am a little in advance of my narrative: The morning2 Mr. Chandler first presented his papyrus to bro. Smith, he was3 shown, by the latter, a number of characters like those upon4 the writings of Mr. C. which were previously copied from the plates,5 containing the history of the Nephites, or book of Mormon.6 Being solicited by Mr. Chandler to give an opinion concerning7 his antiquities, or a translation of some of the characters, bro. S.8 gave him the interpretation of some few for his satisfaction.9 For your gratification I will here annex a certificate which I10 hold from under the hand of Mr. Chandler, unsolicited, how-11 ever, by any person in this palce, which will show how far he12 believed bro. Smith able to unfold from these long observed rolls13 the wonders contained therein:14 "Kirtland, July 6th, 1835."15 "This is to make known to all who may be desirous, concerning16 the knowledge of Mr. Joseph Smith, Jr. in deciphering the ancient

17 Egyptian hieroglyphic characters, in my possession, which I have,18 in many eminent cities, shown to the most learned: And, from19 the information that I could ever learn, or meet with, I find20 that of Mr. Joseph Smith, Jr. to correspond in the most minute21 matters." (Signed) "Michael H. Chandler."22 "Travelling with, and proprietor of Egyptian Mummies."23 The foregoing is verbatim as given by Mr. C. excepting the24 addition of punctuation, and speaks sufficiently plain without25 requiring comment from me. It was given previous to the26 purchase of the antiquities, by any person here.27 The language in which this record is written is very com-28 prehensive, and many of the hieroglyphics exceedingly stri-29 king. The evidence is apparent upon the face, that they were30 written by persons acquainted with the history of the creation, the31 fall of man, and more or less of the correct ideas of notions32 of the Diety. The representation of the God-head - three, yet in one,33 is curiously drawn to give simply, though impressively, the34 writers views of that exalted personage. The serpent,35 represented as walking, or formed in a manner to be1 able to walk, standing in front of, and near a female2 figure, is to me, one of the greatest representations I have ever3 seen upon paper, or a writing substance; and must go so4 far toward convincing the rational mind of the correct-5 ness and divine authenticity of the holy scriptures, and es-6 pecially that part which has ever been assailed by the7 infidel community, as being a fiction, as to carry away with8 one mighty sweep the whole atheistical fabric, without leaving9 a vestige sufficient for a foundation stone. Enoch's Pillar, as men-10 tioned by Josephus, is upon the same roll. True, our present version11 of the bible does not mention this fact, though it speaks of the12 righteousness of Abel and the holiness of Enoch, - one slain be-13 cause his offering was accepted of the Lord, and the others14 taken to the regions of everlasting day without being confined15 in the narrow limits of the tomb, or tasting death; but Josephus16 says that the descendants of Seth were virtuous, and possessed a17 great knowledge of the heavenly bodies and that in conse-18 quence of the prophecy of Adam, that the world should19 be destroyed once by water and again by fire, Enoch wrote20 a history or an account of the same, and put into two pillars21 one of brick and the other of stone, and that the same22 were in being at his (Josephus') day. The inner end of the same23 roll (Joseph's record) presents a representation of the Judgment.24 At one view you behold the Savior seated upon his throne,25 crowned, and holding the sceptres of righteousness and power,26 before whom also are assembled the twelve tribes of Israel, the27 nations, languages and tongues of the earth, the kingdoms

28 of the world over which Satan is represented as reigning, Mi-29 chael the archangel, holding the key of the bottomless pit, and30 at the same time the devil as being chained and shut up in31 the bottomless pit. But upon this last scene, I am able only to give32 you a shadow, to the real picture. I am certain it cannot33 be viewed without filling the mind with awe, unless the mind34 is far estranged from God: and I sincerely hope, that mine35 may never go so far astray, nor wander from those rational1 principle of the doctrine of our Savior, so much as to become2 darkened in the least, and thereby fail to have that, to us, the3 greatest of all days, and the most sublime of all transactions,4 so impressively fixed upon the heart, that I become not like the5 beast, not knowing whither I am going, nor what shall be my6 final end!7 I might continue my communication to a great length9 upon the different figures and characters represented upon10 the two rolls, but I have no doubt my subject has already11 become sufficiently prolix for your patience: I will there-12 fore soon cease for the present. When the translation of these13 valuable documents will be completed, I am unable to say;14 neither can I give you a probable idea how large volumes15 they will make; but judging from their size and the com-16 prehensiveness of the language, one might reasonably expect17 to see a sufficient to develop much upon the mighty acts of18 the ancient men of God, and of his dealing with the children19 of men when they saw him face to face. Be there little or20 much; it must be an inestimable acquisition to our present21 scriptures, fulfilling, in a small degree, the word of the prophet:22 For the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord as23 the waters cover the sea.24 Believe me to be, sir, sincerely and truly, your brother in25 the bonds of the new and everlasting covenant,26 Oliver Cowdery.27 To Wm. Frye, Esq. Lebanon, Calhoon Co. Ill.28 A true copy from the original, I. M. Carrel, Rec.

______________________________________________________Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.74 - p.7529 Kirtland, Ohio, Dec. 25th, 1835.30 Dear Brother in the Lord: - What I write in this I design as31 a postscript to mine of the 22nd as my sheet was full before my32 promise was redeemed upon the subject of temporal matters, &c.33 (you will have understood from the foregoings, that eleven mum-34 mies were taken from the catacomb, at the time of which I have35 been speaking, and nothing definite having been said as1 to their disposal. I may, with propriety add a few words. Seven2 of the said eleven were purchased by gentlemen for private

3 museums, previous to Mr. Chandler's visit to this place, - with4 a small quantity of papyrus, similar, (as he says) to the astrono-5 mical representation, contained with the present two rolls,6 of which I previously spake, - and the remaining four by7 gentlemen resident here.8 Though the mummies themselves are a curiosity and an9 astonishment, well calculated to arouse the mind to a re-10 flection of past ages, when man strove and at this day, to im-11 mortalize their names, though in another manner, yet & do12 not consider them of much value compared with those re-13 cords which were deposited with them.14 If Providence permits, I will, ere long, write you again15 upon the propriety of looking for additions to our present16 scriptures, according to their own literal reading.17 Yours, as ever O. Cowdery18 To Wm. Frye, Esq. Lebanon, Calhoun Co., Ill.19 P.S. - There are a great number of Elders in Kirtland now,20 many of whom are attending an English school. We are21 expecting a Hebrew school to commence in a few weeks22 if we get a room prepared.23 The most of those Elders who are now in the school are study-24 ing and reviewing grammar, History, writing, &c. The House of the25 Lord is being finished as fast as can be expected considering26 the smallness of the means in the hands of the church; but27 we trust the Lord will open the way that we may fulfill his com-28 mandments: and in due time, also, we look for the redemption29 of Zion. I earnestly pray that you may be prospered in all30 lawful pursuits, and that your family may be blessed with31 health, and that you may, according to your own wish, be one32 of the hundred forty and four thousand, who are to stand upon33 the Mount Zion, having the harps of God.34 I will however close, referring you to Elder Groves for instructions upon35 other matters, who will be able to answer your requests.35 O.C.Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.761 Kirtland, Ohio, Jan. 19, 18362 Dear Sir:3 Yours of the 9th is received. Elder John P. Greene4 ordered the Star sent to you to Evans (not East Evans)5 which is the reason, probably, that your file of the Advocate6 is deficient.7 The present publisher informs me that he has mailed8 you the back Nos. of the Advocate.9 Only ten numbers of the Star were published in this place.10 We have commenced, and shall probably finish, their re-11 publication, and if you wish they can be forwarded to you

12 by the mail. You may remit for the former papers, and those13 to come, as you name in yours of the 9th.14 I am wholly unable to give you encouragement15 for preachers at present. The Elders are, or a great ma-16 ny of them, at this place attending School. In the17 spring they will go out; but were the Lord must direct18 not men.19 If your place is dark so are thousands of others, and20 in this day of perishing for lack of vision, men must21 come at the first bidding or they may not find admit-22 tance at the great marriage Supper.23 In haste, yours sincerely and truly,24 Oliver Cowdery.25 To Joel Sweetland,26 East Evans, N.Y.27 A true copy from the original, I. M. Cerrel. Rec.Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.77 - p.781 Kirtland, Ohio, Feb. 13th, 18362 Dear Madam3 We have the privilege of addressing4 you a few lines through the kindness of Professor5 Sexias who we believe has been sent to this institution6 through the immediate direction of God to promote7 the cause of truth and benefit a fallen world. We8 are in this led to be thankful to our Redeemer in whose9 Glorious cause we are engaged as we are anxiously de-10 siring to become acquainted with an individual of virtue11 & piety who understood perfectly those languages in12 which the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments13 were originally written as our only object is to do good14 to lay aside error when we discover it forsake evil15 and follow righteousness and truly be the better pre-16 pared and qualified to render assistance to our fellow17 men and glorify the name of the Lord: in this our ex-18 pectations are fully realized and we trust through the19 goodness of God to make a proper improvement of20 the blessing thus given. And we sincerely pray that on21 the part of your husband our acquaintance may be of22 that kind that we shall ever have cause to bless and23 adore God for thus guiding him to place by his un-24 seen hand.25 We have seen the possession of Mr. Sexias a very26 valuable Lexicon which he informs us is your individ-27 ual property. We have no hesitation in saying that28 is highly valuable by yourself for the convenience29 and use of private family; but we do believe that

30 the wisdom and philanthropy which ever inspires31 the heart of the pure and good will forego for a32 few months these special benefits which may be33 derived from it for a few for the pleasure of benefitting34 the many. As the Trustees of this institution35 we have by the request of others as well as expressing1 our own individual desires to have it the same VL Ken2 the liberty to thus tresspass upon your time and patience3 and request the privilege of purchasing of you4 through Professor Sexias this Lexicon. It is unne-5 cessary to wholly unnecessary for us to communicate or6 attempt to the great worth this Lexicon would be7 to this Institution in our present and future stud-8 ies as yourself to the fact and we only say that we9 hope that God may direct you by his Holy Spirit to do10 right. And we trust the issue in his hands believing11 you will call to mind the flood of reproach heaped12 upon us as a people. The few advantages we profess13 in comparison with other institutions in consequences14 of the same and that all favors thus bestow-15 ed will be only appreciated and thankfully re-16 membered.17 We are most respectfully.18 Your Obt. Servants,19 Joseph Smith Jun.20 Sidney Rigdon21 F. G. Williams22 Oliver Cowdery23 Kirtland, Ohio. Feb. 183624 A true copy from the Original25 W. F. Cowdery Rec.Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.79Page 79 missing - or no page 79Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.80 - p.831 Far West, Mo. Jan. 21st, 18382 Dear Br. Warren:3 The following is an exact copy of4 a letter just closed, which I shall put into the Post5 Office with this, and thought proper to advise you.6 Far West Mo., Jan. 21st, 18387 Sir - I should have written you long since but for ill8 health, I have anxiously waited to answer, that I might give8A the9 you a full history of my excursion to north according to10 my promise; and were it not for the recent intelligence11 from Kirtland, which gives me so much surprise, should

12 still defer - you will be able to judge from the formation13 of my letter how weak and infirm are my nerves. I have14 been sick six weeks and a large part of the time con-15 fined to my room and bed.16 I was absent, when north some twenty days, and should17 not have returned then but for the failure of Col. Wight18 to forward provisions as he agreed. I labored incessantly19 every day except one - rain, snow or frost. I lay on the cold20 damp earth; had but little to eat, and that indifferent; but21 explored a great and precious county. I ran many lines22 with compass and chain, found a great many of the23 finest mill-sites I have seen in the western23A or world24 country and made between forty and fifty choice25 locations.26 Notwithstanding the feeble sta. of my health, I27 had previously made preparations and yet expect28 to start tomorrow morning (Monday) to view still29 east of where I previously went.30 I learn from Kirtland, by the last letters, that you31 have publickly said, that when you were here I32 confessed to you that I had willfully lied about33 you - this compells me to ask you to correct that state-34 ment, and give me an explanation - until which you35 and myself are two."36 Oliver Cowdery37 Mr. Joseph Smith Jr.1 You will see from the other page that your own and2 Brother Lyman's requests concerning the Stated confession3 made to Mr. Smith, is, if I am to be credited, not so.4 From what he pretended to have made it, is to me5 unaccountable. I can assure you and bro. Lyman,6 that as God is to judge my soul at the last day,7 and as I hope for salvation in the world to come, I never7A or admitted8 confessed intimated that I ever willfully lied about9 him. When he was here we had some conversation10 in which in every instance I did not fail to affirm11 that what I had said was strictly true. A dirty, nasty,12 filthy affair of his and Fanny Alger's was talked over13 in which I strictly declared that I had never deviated14 from the truth on the matters, and as I supposed was admit-15 ted by himself. At any rate, just before leaving, he wanted16 to drop every past thing, in which had been a difficulty17 or difference - he called witnesses to the fact, gave me his18 hand in their presence, and I might have supposed of

19 an honest man, calculated to say nothing of former20 matters. Never believe that Oliver will disgrace the21 gray hairs of his father, or the high sense of honor22 in the bosom of his brothers, so much as to acknowledge23 to Joseph Smith, Jr. that he has lied about him.24 There is something to damning in the thought. My25 former conduct towards him and that family,26 when they were poor, and hated, in giving the last cent27 of my honest earnings to save them from being turned28 into the streets, is so manifest in the memory of those29 who knew me at the time, and my course pursued in30 defending him before all men with my ability and31 talent, since speak sufficiently in my own heart32 and proclaim the honest integrity dwelling there too33 loudly to overlook unnoticed what is passed.34 Last evening's mail brought yours of the 10th ult.35 on the lg sheet, and one from bro. Lyman of the1 same date, and yours of the 18th besides some to Me. & Sr.2 concerning notes, and one to Doct. Williams from3 brother J. The paper of the large sheet was so4 thick that it weighed over an ounce and cost one5 dollar. If you had written on two, separate common6 cap sheets it would have cost less.7 You will see in mine to Mr. Smith, that I have8 been sick, and am still unwell. When north I made9 every observation in my power. It is expected that10 Smith & Rigdon will come here to live, and it will11 be my endeavor to seek a location for myself and friends12 some where else. I am delighted with the country13 north (Daviss) and now think we shall all find it14 to our interest to locate there. It will shortly be15 ahead of this country. The timber is better and16 more plenty, besides Grand River, which is navigable17 for Steam Boats, passes through its center. Evidently18 if they come here that is the place for us. My ob-19 ject in going north now is to secure, if possible, a20 place in that county, and on my return shall21 write you more fully. I am able to be about, but21A very much22 it hurts me to write, or I would write you more23 news. I shall inform bro. Lyman all about my24 business &c. on my return.25 Doct. Williams will probably write soon, and also26 bro. David. You will see by the conference minutes27 from this place that we had a fudge when S.28 & R. were here. If I am correctly informed a

29 good many are dissatisfied with that way of pro-30 ceeding. My family are about as usual. We31 a part of bro. Jh W's house and expect to be till spring.32 Our mails are quite uncertain. We have Black33 Stone 2 vol. Kent 4 do. Courty 1 Do. Starkie on Evidence34 2 do. Story's commentaries 1 do. Wheatens International35 law Ohio reports Missouri do Ohio Statue, 1 do.1 and have sent and expect in March between 50 & 60 Vol.2 more. I will write all about it when able.3 Oliver Cowdery4 Doct. W. A. Cowdery Esq.5 Warren F. Cowdery Rec.Letters of Oliver Cowdery, p.83 - p.876 Copy of a letter written by Oliver Cowdery7 Mailed City West, Caldwell County, Missouri8 Far-West Caldwell County Missouri9 February 4th, 183810 Dear Brothers Warren & Lyman, I cannot11 well write separate letters; therefore I address you12 both in a single sheet. The last mail brought yours13 of Dec. 24th - 37 and Jan. 8 - 38 and though I have14 not written you frequently am glad to be remembered.15 My health is slowly improving, but it gives me con-16 siderable distress in my stomach to write. It has17 so happened, that as yet, my news from the east has17A that18 been in advance of sent by the Lick Skillets which19 keeps them in a stew. Their friends don't think to20 put their letters in at Willoughby. You will have21 received an answer to the matter of Mr. Smith's21A accusation22 statement against me in public ere this arrives.23 Matters in the church here are assuming a form24 to be looked at by the candid candidly: The radical25 principles taught when Messrs. Smith & Rigdon26 were here have given loose to the enthusiastick, and27 their seems to be a disposition prevalent to carry forward28 those damning doctrines to the subversion of the lib-29 erties of the whole church. Messrs. W. W. Phelps,30 J. Whitmer and myself had a partial claim31 to a few lots in Independence, Mo., sold some32 time since on some of the Jackson suits costs.1 We quit claimed our interest in and to the same2 for a small sum (and glad to get that) which has3 caused considerable stir. Not long since, Messrs.4 D. & J. Whitmer, W. W. Phelps and myself were waited upon

5 by (as they said) a committee of the High council who6 said the church was dissatisfied with our conduct &c. in7 selling those lots and not keeping the word of wisdom,8 and also, in not teaching the church to fulfil the9 consecration law. I told them that if I had prop-10 erty; while I live and was sane, I would not be dictated,11 influenced or controlled by any man or set of men by12 no tribunal of ecclesiastical pretences whatever. And13 when I or my family were sick or any other time,14 I would eat and drink what I thought would do me15 the most good: this was about the substance of what16 the others told them. The next day the council met17 again and resolved not to have those men (the 3) to be18 their Presidents and to call on the church to know19 if they could concur in the same. They say they have20 no legal accusation against them, but don't want21 them to preside over the church any longer. Tomorrow22 is appointed for the first meeting of the church; the23 brethren won't go! They will not bend to the prin-24 ciple enough to go and answer to a tribunal which24A say25 is no tribunal. They "If we have transgressed the26 law of God, try us by the law and according to the law."27 The council have concluded they have nothing to do28 with me so I am not drawn in question; but cal-29 culate to attend one meeting, say what I think30 wisdom and leave them to their own damnation.31 My soul is sick of such scrambling for power32 and self aggrandizement by a pack of fellows33 more ignorant than Balaam's ass. After I came to34 this country to enjoy peace, if I cannot, I shall35 go where I can. The following, I copy for your infor-1 mation and you may guess whether or not we are2 calculating to sit calmly and be abused.3 Tuesday, Jan. 30, 18384 "At a meeting of the following members of the5 church of Latter Day Saints, viz F. G. Willimas,6 D. Whitmer, W. W. Phelps, J. Whitmer, Jacob Whitmer,7 Lyman E. Johnson and O. Cowdery convened at8 the house of Oliver Cowdery in Far West, Cald-9 well Co. Mo. by common consent to take into10 consideration the state of said church and the manner11 in which some of the Authorities of the same12 have for a time past, and are still endeavoring13 to unite ecclesiastical with civil authority and force14 men under a pretense of incurring the dis-

15 pleasure of heaven to use their earthly sub-16 stance contrary to their own interest and17 privilege; and also how said authorities are18 endeavoring to make it a rule of faith for19 said church to uphold a certain man or20 men right or wrong, when Frederick G. Williams21 was called to the chair and Oliver Cowdery22 was appointed Clerk.23 After consultation; Oliver Cowdery, David24 Whitmer, Frederick G. Williams were appointed25 a committee to Draft a declaration and26 resolutions to present to the next meeting:27 and W. W. Phelps, John Whitmer and28 Lyman E. Johnson were appointed a com-29 mittee to look for a place for the above30 named individuals in which to settle31 where they may live in peace and also report32 to the said meeting."33 "Closed by prayer of David Whitmer"34 O. Cowdery, Clerk35 F. G. Williams, Chm.1 In my last I intimated that I should2 take another tour north but the weather was so un-3 favorable that I did not. You will see by those4 minutes that we calculated upon doing something, we do!5 but we shall endeavor to be guided by the Holy Scrip-6 tures in all our moves in which case we trust God will7 be with us. As soon as our Declarations &c. are8 adopted we shall proclaim them publickly, and9 send a copy to you. Our hearts are encouraged,10 for we believe in God's holy word - we believe in en-11 joying equal rights and equal privileges and we12 believe it to be our duty to separate ourselves from all13 who are disposed to fulminate pretended revelation14 and uphold corruption by lying. Brother Lyman15 has expressed a wish to live near me - I think16 he can safely and not be obliged to witness17 such abominations as he now does. By yours18 I learn that some of the brethren have final-19 ly come out against impurities &c. and20 declared the "church of Christ." I hope they21 be careful in their contentions and not do22 his cause an injury. I expect our explo-23 ring committee will look for a place where24 a County Seat will eventually be located,25 and if we (myself, Marcellus & Martins) are

26 prospered and are well, we shall be able to pre-27 pare so that you can safely come up next fall.28 On this I will write hereafter particulars.29 Judge Phelps says we shall have a Printing30 Press started before long. The boy is wait-31 ing to carry my letter to the Office, as the32 mail is going out today. I shall write you33 again soon if able.34 W. A. & L. Cowdery Yours truly,35 Oliver Cowdery1 I thank bro. Parish for his in yours2 and would write him, but expect you will3 read my letters to those who take an4 interest in the good cause. Give me my5 freedom or take my life! I shall no6 longer be bound by the chains of hell:7 I shall speak out when I see a move8 to deceive the ignorant. We do not expect9 the great body of the church here to unite10 in our views - We do not ask - we want11 none but independent men-not the rag-12 muffians who believe in man more13 than God! My family are usually: My14 friends here will not consent for me to15 go east. Respects to Franklin and16 your families.17 O. Cowdery18 W. F. Cowdery19 RecorderLetters of Oliver Cowdery, p.87 - p.9020 Copy of a letter dated Far West Caldwell Co. Missouri21 February 24th, 1838 - To W. A & L. Cowdery22 at Kirtland, Geauga Co. Ohio23 Dear Brothers Warren & Lyman: We have had24 no mails for two weeks till last evening or25 I should have written you in the (interim). I26 received W's of the 24th & 30th January con-27 taining the usual accounts of the calam-28 ity of Kirtland. Elder L. E. Johnson also29 received a long one from Elder Parrish.30 Judge Phelps also received a letter from31 Messrs. Rigdon & Smith, written from32 New Portage, Ohio. They call loudly for33 help from this place: for money & waggons1 to help them forward. Their is a council2 today, I expect, on the subject - what

3 will be the result I am not able to4 say; but presume messengers will be sent to5 meet them. I know not what will follow6 their arrival here, but I fear that a blast7 like that which has fallen on the devoted8 town of Kirtland will come after time is9 sufficient to test the impropriety of those10 plans advocated by some of this church. This is11 a delightful country, and if a people would be12 wise, industrious & honest, might lead this13 upper country without the least difficulty.14 Our exploring committee have returned15 but made no report - they will probably go16 again as soon as the weather will permit17 We shall eventually go from this place, I18 have no doubt. The county of Daviess north19 of this offers many facilities to us and I now20 think the committee may advise to locate21 there. Grand River which passes through its22 centre is navigable for Steam Boats and when23 the country adjacent is settled will be a24 place of business. The committee on the25 resolutions & Declaration have not respon-26 ded - they will look carefully and endeavor27 to appear consistent - with the consistent;28 but with the unreasonable and ignorant we29 do not expect to be applauded or approved,30 while we advocate the principles of justice31 to learn31 and truth. I am certainly glad you are32 that you talk of coming here this Spring.33 I wanted you to be suited with the place where34 I settle, because I want your society. There35 is a great Stir here and so far as I am able1 to learn the names of all who refuse to con-2 fess those disorganizing doctrines lately intro-3 duced into the church to be correct, are de-4 nounced as wicked, Devilish, and more than5 all with them "not friendly to Joseph." I am6 certainly sick of such perfect foolery - there is7 no God in it! These alternative in my mind,8 but those desperate & hot headed power seek-9 ing, ignorant men here will drive the in-10 telligent and independent to Declare their11 belief to an astonished world. I am in-12 formed that Messrs. Cahoon & Marks were

13 appointed to fill the places of Doctor Williams14 & myself - will you inform me? From what I14A have15 learn I long been pointed out for a victim16 to receive the displeasure of men who profess17 to hold the connecting link between earth18 and heaven! and of course if I believe it, I19 am in danger: but I don't fear.20 I have heretofore written but little in21 my letter to Kirtland on the subject of22 your divisions, but have thought the23 more - in due time you will hear me24 speak. I want to say, however, that if those25 who have taken a stand against those26 wicked doctrines heretofore taught, they27 may be instrumental in preserving the28 church of Christ on earth. But if they29 do it will be by a holy walk and Godly30 conduct - not by following those with en-31 thusiastick slandering examples set before32 us for a few months past.33 My health is improving some but I am feeble34 yet. Elizabeth, Mary and Mosiah are as35 healthy as could be expected after a long jour-1 ney. It is now eight o'clock in the evening and2 have to carry this to the office. But one thing more3 In the letter from Elder Parrish to L. E. Johnson4 I learn that our old father was one that had firmness5 to publicly declare against iniquity - May God bless him6 in his old age for that, and I soundly declare7 that I, as his Son, will remember the example of my8 dying parent-and do likewise.9 Brothers John, David, Doct. Williams &10 Judge Phelps send respects.11 You will hear from me once a week or oftener12 if I am at home & well. As ever yours: Oliver13 To W. A. & L. Cowdery Esqrs.14 I certify that this is a true Warren F. Cowdery15 copy from the Original RecorderLetters of Oliver Cowdery, p.90 - p.9316 Copy of a letter dated Far West, Caldwell17 County, Missouri From Oliver Cowdery to18 W. A. & L. Cowdery's Kirtland, Geauga Co. N.Y.19 Dear Brothers Warren & Lyman: Our20 mails have been somewhat irregular for21 a part of the winter; but hope for the future

22 they may come directly. Last evening Mar-23 cellus had a letter from Franklin, postmarked24 February 6th, nothing new. I concluded by25 time you are enjoying a little peace - con-26 fusion prevails here. Jared Carter who but late-27 ly came on, proclaimed on last Sabbath, so.28 I am informed by persons who heard it, that29 Joseph Smith Junr. was the only mediator be-30 tween God & this Generation! or words to that31 effect. And that all who are not on his32 (J's) side would be cursed, &c. while others1 bore testimony of the truth of the doctrine.2 A day or two since past D. & J. Whitmer &3 W. W. Phelps were notified by Marsh that a4 charge had been prepared before the High5 Council Thurs. and that today their case6 would be taken into consideration. Ac-7 cordingly the following was drawn up, signed8 &c. and Marcellus is now gone to present9 it to Marsh in their new fangled coun-10 cil. "Far West March 10th 1838."11 Sir, It is contrary to the pinciples of the12 revelations of Jesus Christ & his gospel13 and the laws of the land, to try a person by14 an offence by an illegal tribunal, or by15 men prejudiced against him, or by author-16 ity that has given an opinion or decision17 beforehand or in his abscence.18 To J. B. Marsh, one of the Very respectfully, we have19 Travailing counsellors &c. the honor to be20 Attest: O. Cowdery Clerk David Whitmer21 of the church of Christ W. W. Phelps22 in Missouri John Whitmer23 I certify the above to be a Presidents of the High Co24 true copy from the original - Church of Christ in25 Oliver Cowdery, Clerk of the H. Missouri26 Council27 Whether this little document will cause28 those hotheaded men to consider their ways, I know not. I suppose29 however they will plead Smith's instructions & justify themselves in30 trying Presidents of the church before a rabble and call it legal!31 Be this as it may when it becomes us to speak we shall proba-32 bly be heard: Till then I want but little said what I am doing.33 Marcellus' School closed today. He has taught 3 months. Mar-34 tin's School closed this week: he has taught 2 months.35 They will both leave for Daviss County - Monday to look for a

1 location. We look for you this spring. The Judge of Daviess is here2 today and I think more & more we better go to that country. I have previously told3 you that Steam Boat navigations come through its bosom; and that it will evi-4 dently be a very populous part of the country. I believe if you were to come soon &5 we go there with some persons here with "the press" we could have any business within6 the power of the country to give as soon as we might want. We are putting up the press7 and I have been strongly solicited to come out with a prospectus for a weekly paper. If8 I did not think of going soon to Daviess County, I think I should come out with a8A prospectus and (too long to fit on one line)9 try the experiment: The religious prejudices will undoubtedly make a vast difference9A with (too long to fit on one line)10 the number of my subscribers. We shall have to get some more type before we go into the10A matter largely. (too long to fit on one line)11 Our winter has been long and cold for this country; remarkable so. I think the thermome-12 ter stood at some 20 below zero one morning: this is uncommon. Spring begins to make13 its appearance & I hope it may rush on with its accustomed swiftness and beauty. The14 Missouri & Grand Rivers are clear from ice, I am told. Steam Boats are expected up the15 Missouri soon. We (L. E. Johnson & myself) shall look for our new books (some 55 vol.)16 soon. When I become acquainted more familiarly with the leading lawyers of the coun-17 try, and the practice of the courts, if you are not herein the interim will write18 you more fully. I have read some of the Supreme Court reports of this State and19 think generally they will evince a very good knowledge of law. How I shall like20 the practice of the inferior courts, I cannot say. We have some four or five suits21 to attend to at the next turn of the Circuit Court (2nd of April:) but we shall22 have to employ some one to advocate the suits in open Court. I am pressing my23 study as fast as health & circumstances will permit; and hope I may feel competent24 to apply for a license this summer. If I do I shall have to go down to the country to25 see one of the Judges of the Supreme Court, or attend the court itself which does not sit26 very near. The Circuit attorneys are elected by the people - I have no doubt if L.27 was here he could get the Office very soon. If we can live here in peace we can28 grow up with the country and have our full share of publick matters, &c.29 If we cannot have it here we can somewhere else.

30 Marcellus has just returned from the new fangled council: my name was used31 some - Marcellus got into a stew, but thank my God he was a man!32 I rejoice that there is Cowdery blood enough in him not be bend33 to villany. They voted that they were a legal tribunal - the opposite34 vote was called and Marcellus voted alone. The presidency here are turned35 over to the buffittings of Satan till they restore four fold &c.1 Marcellus will probably give you a history. We are all pretty sawas2 now, Mariah cries to see her Grandfather's portrait - Kiss3 it, &c.4 Yours, Oliver5 To W. A. & L. Cowdery6 A true copy from the original as I certify.7 Warren F. Cowdery RecorderLetters of Oliver Cowdery, p.94 - p.96 (SAME AS p.87 - p.90)1 Feby. 24, 18382 Copy of a letter dated at Far West Mo.3 To W. A. & L. Cowdery4 Dear Brothers Warren & Lyman, We have had5 no mails for two weeks till last evening, or I should6 have written you in the interim. I received W's of7 the 24th & 30th Jan. containing the usual account of the8 calamity of Kirtland. Elders L. E. Johnson also9 received a long one from Elder Parrish. Judge Phelps10 received a letter also from Messrs. Rigdon & Smith, written11 from New Portage, Ohio. They call loudly for help12 from this place for money and waggons to help13 them forward. There is a council14 today, I expect, on the subject - what will be the15 result I am not able to say; but presume messengers16 will be sent to meet them. I know not what will17 follow their arrival here; but I fear that a blast, like18 that which has fallen on the devoted town of Kirtland,19 will come, after trial sufficient to test the impropriety20 of those plans advocated by some in this church.21 This is a delightful country, and if a people22 would be honest, industrious, and wise, might lead23 this upper country without the least difficulty.24 Our exploring committee have returned but made25 no report - they will probably go again, as soon as26 the weather will permit. We shall eventually go27 from this place, I have no doubt. The county of Daviess28 north of this, offers many facilities to us, and I now29 think the committee may advise to locate there.30 Grande River, which passes through its centre, is31 navigable for Steam Boats, and when the Country

32 adjacent is settled will be a place of business.33 The committee on the Declaration and Reso-34 lutions have not reported - they will look care-35 fully and endeavor to appear consistent with the1 consistent; but with the unreasonable and ignor-2 ant we do not expect to be applauded or ap-3 proved, while we advocate the principles of4 justice and truth. I am certainly glad5 to learn that you talk of coming here6 this spring. I want you to be suited with7 this place where I settle, because I want your8 society. There is a great stir here, and so9 far as I am able to learn, the names of all10 who refuse to confess those disorganizing doc-11 trines lately introduced into the church to be12 correct, are denounced as wicked, and devilish,13 and more than all with them "Not friendly14 to Joseph". I am certainly sick of such perfect15 foolery - there is no God in it! There is no alter-16 native in my mind, but those desperate and17 hotheaded power seeking, ignorant men, here18 will drive the intelligent and independent to19 declare their belief to an astonished20 world! I am informed that Cahoon & Marks21 were appointed to fill the place of Doctor22 Williams and myself - will you inform me? From23 what I learn I have long been pointed out for24 a victim, to receive the displeasure of men25 who profess to hold the consecrating link26 between earth and heaven! and of if I27 believe it, I am in danger: but I don't fear.28 I have heretofore written but little in29 my letters to K. on the subject of your30 divisions, but have thought the more - in31 due time you will hear me speak. and I32 want to say, however, that if those who33 have taken a stand against those wicked doc-34 trines, heretofore taught they may be instru-35 mental in preserving the church of Christ on1 earth. But if they do it will be by a holy walk &2 Godly conduct - not by following those wild, enthusiastic3 slandering examples set before us for a few months4 past.5 My health is improving some, but I am feeble6 yet. Elizabeth, Mary and Mosiah are as healthy as6A & fatiguing

7 could be expected after a long journey. It is now8 eight O'Clock in the evening and I have to carry9 this to the Office; but one thing more; In the10 letters from Elder Parrish to L. E. Johnson, I11 learn that our old Father was one who had firm-12 ness enough to publickly declare against iniquity -13 May God bless him in his old age for that, and I sol-14 emnly declare that I as his son, will remember15 the example of my dying parent, and do like-16 wise.17 Brother John & David, Doct. Williams & Judge Phelps18 send respects.19 You will hear from me once a week, or oftener,20 if I am at home and well. As ever Yours21 Oliver22 W. A. & L. Cowdery Esqrs.23 A true copy from the Original as I verily believe24 H. F. Cowdery, Rec.