It is the responsibility of the researcher to obtain any copyright clearances. Permission to publish material from this/these transcript(s) must be obtained from the Supervisor of Reference Services and/or the L. Tom Perry Special Collection Coordinating Committee. [Notes added by transcribers are in square brackets. Dashes in square brackets indicate unclear words or letters. indicate words the author inserted to a previously written line.] Newel Kimball Whitney Collection on Mormon Church: Correspondence (S1_SS2) Number of Pages: 219 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F20_p001.jpg) the Boston March 10 1845 Elder Pratt dollars & twenty four cents Enclosed is four hundred & Ninetynine ^ that I have collected up to this date and I think you will say that I have had good luck and the Lord has been with me and the saints in in this part of the Lords and the Saints vinyard ^ need a little praise through the prophit that others may go and do likewise, The names are as follows [---] Francis Smith $14.49 | Benjamin Dexter ^-- one Gold watch Mary [hole in page] ott -- 3.00 | Elizar Gardner- $2.00 Al [hole in page] 2.00 | Stephen H. Pierce -- 5.85 Benjamin Dexter [hole in page] 5.00 | Lucy M. Dewey -- 5.00 Everlina [-]eague -- 1.00 | Dolly Bissell -- 3.00 Zelnora Snow [hole in page] 1.00 | Elizar Savage -- 5.00 Hannah E Baldwin 1.50 | Marcia Abbot 5.00 Lavina Chandler 2.00 | Sarah A Libby -- 2.50 Louisa Chandler 2.00 | Loisa Adams -- 1.00 Sarah - Chandler 1.00 | Ann R Gould 2.00 Sophia P Clark 1.00 | Lois Atherton 1.50 Nathaniel Booth 1.50 | Roena Chandler 1.00 Walker Lewis 15.00 | Mary E. Leavitt 3.00 Edmund Bird 5.00 | Thomas Hamilton -- 1.00 James M Pierce -- 1.00 | Abijail Hamilton 2.00 Isab[hole in page]lla Jones 5.00 | Hannah Cross -- 5.00 William Harnden 5.00 | Chisalena Staffan 1.00 nam[-]s The above ^ no[hole in page] to be inserted $66.49 | The above names not to be inserted $43.85 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F20_p002.jpg) [left page] Ruth Wellington 20.00 Abigail Buchanan 10.00 Sarah McCarty 1.00 William G. Hudson 1.00 Albert Nickerson 40.00 Nathaniel H. Felt 75.00 Joseph Henderson 10.00 Andrew Baston 10.00 Wm Stafford 2.50 Loisa Farrow -- 1.00 Sally Church .50 Sarah Aerry .50 Jane Martin .25 Elizabeth A. Morse .7 Henrietta Thomas 25 Newell Bullin 5.00 Elizar Becket 10.00 Clarasa J Bullin 5.00 Charles Y Grigg 5.00 Sarah E Smart .50 Marsena Cannon 35.00 James Clemenson 10.00 Elizabeth T. Cannon 5.00 $247.57 names The above ^ is not to be put in the prophit [right page] Sister Holm [hole in page] one breast pin ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F20_p003.jpg) [figures of numbers at a 90 degree angle on right side of the page] 66.49 43.85 247.57 141.33 50 10 $559.24 Vincent Shurtleff 105.00 Charlotte Train 4.83 Isaac Ensign 5.00 Mary B Ensign .50 Carline M Warner .50 Polly Ensign .50 Ashbel Dewey 20.00 Harriet Dewey 5.00 14[-].33 The above names can be put in the prophit The in[hole in page]at I have collected up to this date four [hole in page] ty nine dollars & twenty four cent. there [hole in page] dred to 200 dollars worth of clothing is sub[---] or[--] or your direction I also send you by the bearer Elder [-] B. Wallace this lette and the amount [hole in page] cash and the gold Watch and one breast pin, write me as soon as you can and believe me your faithful Bro in Christ E T Benson it was not convenient for Bro Wallace carry the money in the letter and he has put it in his pocket since writing the above Bro Silas P. Barnes has sent me fifty dollars for the Temple $50,00 [-] Carry T Newell $10.00 New York ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F20_p004.jpg) Elder P.P. Pratt New York ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F21_p001.jpg) New York March 8, 1843 Dear Brother, I have just now had the pleasure of receiving a letter from Gen. Jas. Arlington Bennet, informing me that it is his intention to appear fully equipped on parade at Nauvoo on the 7th of May next, as Inspector General of the Nauvoo Legion. His Equipments are as follows, Hat & feather __________________ $22.50 Uniform Coat & pantaloons ____ 52.00 Sash ____________________________ 42.00 Sword & belt ___________________ 35.00 Gloves & Spurs __________________ 6.50 Horse Equipments ____________ 185.00 Epaulets ________________________ 50.00 $393.00 These are all the very best, but the General wishes to do honor to the Legion and the Cause, which he says he will no doubt yet join __ It is thought by some whose opinions are worthy of respect that James Gordon Bennett of the Herald, stands too low in public estimation here to do any credit to the Legion __ He is an alien and could not hold a commission in actual service - I was highly gratified to learn that you had been released from your illegal & unjust persecutions ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F21_p002.jpg) Although I sincerely sympathised with you, I never entertained a shadow of a doubt of the final issue of the case -- I deposited a letter in the post office to-day for President William Law in which I desired him to pay the taxes on my land, lest it be sold - If he has not received my letter will you be kind enough to say to him that he will greatly oblige me by paying the taxes at his earliest convenience - I hope to be prepared to take my departure from this city the latter part of this month, or about the 1st of April - With unfeigned respect I am yours in the N.E. Covenant, J. M. Bernhisel [-] ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F21_p003.jpg) Mr Joseph Smith Nauvoo Hancock County Illinois - [following 2 lines written at a 90 degree angle from original text] March 8th 1843 L.M. Bernhisel ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F22_I1_p001.jpg) Harrison August 29 - 1842- Mr William Clayton Dr Sir I take the liberty to direct a f[-]ew lines to you. wishing to be informed what Mr Joseph Smith has determined apon in relation to the land trade mentioned in my previous letters. I hope you will reply to this amediately And oblige yours &c Wm. F. Dickinson Mr Wm Clayton, P.S. Should there be others in your City who wish to purchase land, write or they will please _ call at my ressidence near Harrison, [-] T. I will dispose of some Eight hundred acres of land in Hancock and the adjoining Counties, at a reasonable price. With sentiments of the highest regard and esteem. I subscribe myself your sincere friend and obedient servent. Wm. F. Dickinson. ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F22_I1_p002.jpg) [following four lines written at 90 degree angle] Harrison [----] Aug 30th Wm F. Dickinson Augt 29 1842 Answered Le[--] 15-42 12th [-] William Clayton Nauvoo Ill, ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F22_I2_p001.jpg) Di[-]y Nov 1[-]-1843 Yours- came to hand this morning It is impossible for me to come up until Next week I am Bying Beef Cattle & Shall Get through this week you may Rest assured that you Shall have the Title all Strait with out any mistake I would Not sell it to any other man for three times the amount Now friend Clayton You must wait on me - a few days as there is No particular hurry Do not fail to have the money You verry well know that I have ben to Some trouble my self & you must Not [-]ender me when I come as I Shall Be in a hurry. Bying Pork you Can Enquire of Helen Kimball - Kefesen[--] Yours in Haste S.K. Laurence ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F22_I2_p002.jpg) Wm Clayton Esq Nauvoo -- Hancock ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F22_I3_p001.jpg) Fountain Green April 5th 1844 [tear in page] Sir I Send This By Mr William Allton He is Hereby Authorized to Make all necessary Enquiries Respecting My Intrests and any Contract Made with Him you May Consider as Made with Me and I will Execute the papers according to His Contract It. would Be a Matter of Importance to Me to have the whole amount of purchase Money Before the first of May as My Physician Advises. A Change of Climate for My Health which I am not Able to do unless I Should Receive the Money yours Respectfully Wm Clayton Esqu Clark Leal ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F22_I3_p002.jpg) Mr Wm Clayton Esqu Nauvoo Ill [following two lines written at 90 degree angle from original text and along the left edge of paper] Clark Leal April 5. 1844 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F22_I4_p001.jpg) Carthage April 30th 1844 Mr Wm Clayton Dear Sir, The following is a list of lands in your neighborhood which I have for sale, with the prices annexed. 5 9 3/4 acres off South End of the East 110 acres of the N E 21. 6 n. 8 w._ Tax title - price $5 pr acre. South East 7. 6 n [-] w._ Tax title - $2.50. pr acre South West 10. 6 n 7 W. Tax title - .80 cts pr acre. East South half of S. E. 18. 6 n. 7 w. Tax title. 2$ pr acre. I would like a good buggy & harness, - a covered one would be preferred - in paymt of any of the above lands if it could be had at a fair price. Respectfully Yours &c J.W. Sherman ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F22_I4_p002.jpg) [-]. N. Sherman Carthage Apl 30-44 Offering Sunds [following two lines written at 90 degree angle] Wm Clayton Nauvoo Ill ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F22_I5_p001.jpg) [--]rk County Ills August 8 th 1844 [-]ear Sir Brother H J Rhodes has Just Returned your City, he says that there is a prospect [--]er paying something to the Estate of Broth as soon as some of the Friends Returns and I arrange the Business of the Church [-] say to you that there are Several Demands against the Estate that we [---] pressing at this time I shall Be in r City the 11 of September (Extraordinary [-] [-]pted), I then want all the funds that you kae's If you can rais funds at an Earli[-]r Write me and I will Come and attend to "A [---] if it is impossible to raise any at that [--] Write me and Write me the time you [----] d yo[--] will much oblige your Humble Servant Hugh Rhodes Wm Clayton Esq Nauvoo City Ill ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F22_I5_p002.jpg) Wm. Clayton Esqu Nauvoo City Ills ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F22_I6_p001.jpg) Joulon Stark Co Ills- Febr 8th 1845 Dear sir I was in Springfield on the 1[-] [ripped page] January last and paid the Balance of the Din [ripped page] Claim for N E of Sec 8 & S E of 18- 6 N 8 W It amounted to $621,74, which Clears that from inco[page torn]lenon[-] I Wish you to Write me how you hav succeeded w[page torn]th E[-]ar Nor[-]isson on the Turner Claim I hav not hered from him yet Altho I left a [-]etter requesting him to Write and to forward J, M, Diennons Bond to me, I also wish you to w[torn page]te me at what time you [torn page] make me on other p[torn page]yment If you con do it by the first of April I will Come Down and fitch a Load of Furniture for Messrs James & Robert Mc Clennahon as they hav traded there [-]orms here for land near your city, But if not I shall ex[page torm]t it by the 1st of June & wantyou to Write me th[page torn] precise time that you can pay (as I Do not wan[page torn] [--] be long from home) as soon as you ascertain the fact I hav talked with Brother G J Rhodes in Relation [page torn]o the 100$ Claim you spoke to me about he sai[page torn] Genl Joseph smith had Bought the Claim from Mr John Cock Before we sold to him I thot we ware to hav[page torn]$ [--]- are over & above that claim, we tried Joseph [torn page] also hav Joseph pay Newel & Bra[-]es Claim ^ and th[torn page]n say what he would giv us But he said he would not do it as it was supposed that [-]ort [-]oster h[-]d one of them so we agreed to pay them Brothe H J Rhodes & my self Settle this claim on Sect 5 and he gav up his Contract on these Conditions and he got a [----] of court for 550$ out of the price of the land With due consideration I Remain your humble Wm[--] Clayton Esqr servant Nauvoo city Ills-,, Hugh, Wh[---]les ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F22_I6_p002.jpg) Wm. Clayton Esqr Nauvoo Hancock CO Ills By the Politeness of N.W. Rhodes [following two lines written at 90 degree angle on right edge of page] Hugh Rhodes Feby 8 1845 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F22_I7_p001.jpg) Saturday Kalamazoo Feb 15th 1845 Dear Brother The item of business which you committed to be Packard on a slip of paper he delivered to me because it came within that portion of the State which was allotted to me as the field of my labors accordingly I arrived in Kalamazoo last wednesday eve and on Thursday morn proceeded to Allegan the county seat of Allegan Co, in which is situated the Township of 4 North of Range 11 West By reference to the Books of the County Treasurer (whose name is Ormand Smith) I ascertained that the North West 1/4 of Section 17 of said Township (which is called Wayland) has been sold twice for taxes and the state has been the purchaser both times It was first sold Oct 1st 1843 for the tax of 1840 it being 2,82 It was again sold Oct 1st 1844 for the tax of 1841 and 1842 the tax for 1841 was 10,45. that for 1842 was 5,67 The time for redemption of 1840 tax expired last October but as it is held by the State; Treasurer Smith says it may yet be redeemed by paying interest at 25 per cent on the money The time for the redemption of the 1841 & 1842 taxes will expire Oct 1st 1846 If the Land is redeemed from the taxes of 1840 '41 & '42 the business must be done at the Auditor Generals office in Detroit Again The tax on this qr section for 1843 is 1,51 for 1844 it is 3,68 making 5,19 now due for which the land will again be sold on the 1st Oct 1845 unless previously paid The tax for '43 which is 1,51 is on interest at fifteen percent ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F22_I7_p002.jpg) since February 1st 1844 That for .44 which is 3,6 [page torn] bears interest at the same percent since Feb 1st 1845 The payment of 1843 & 1844s taxes may also be made at the Auditor generals office in Detroit or at the Treasure[-] office in Allegan The Legislature of Michigan have now a bill before them for consideration a bill providing for another sale of such lands as have been bid off by the state to individuals and it is generally expected that it will become a Law and take effect at the sales of next October if such should be the case from that sale there would be no redemption Yesterday morning while at Alleg[-]an after having obtained the above information I enquired the road to this land and was told that it was 35 miles that I could ride but part of the way and must there leave my horse and go on foot and wade or swim streams it was also at the time quite stormy a sleety snow continually falling and had been during the night having already been to some expense out and so much encumbrance on the land & not knowing what your conclusion might be on recieveing this knowing that every Dollar is worth its value in Nauvoo I did not think it expedient to expend 2 or 3 Dollars in visiting the land but took a description of it from Mr Joseph Fisk Sherriff I think of the county who also owns 1/2 of the South West qr of the same section [-]e says about 40 acres of the S.E. Corner of the Lot is nearly Level and covered with an average quality of Pine Timber he thinks a Creek crosse[-] this corner The remainder of the Lot is Timbered with Beech Maple Ash &c and is somewhat undulating not so much so he thinks as to be exceptionable for farming purposes ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F22_I7_p003.jpg) Feby. The soil is of a dark loamy cast and is not worth a more than 3 Dollars pr Acre and thinks it would be ^ diffi cult matter to get that for it unless from an emigrant just from abroad wishing to purchase Yesterday I returned from Allgan after collecting the above facts to this place which is on grand Prairie at he Seth Tafts 2 1/2 miles West of Kalamazoo Village I do not recollect any thing more of importance which I ought to write to you as connected with the matter of that Land I made careful enquiry and faithful examination of the matter as I was capable of doing on know how and I hope the above may prove satisfactory to you by affording you the desired intelligence and humble I shall be happy in being your ^ fellow servant in all things which pertain to the upbuilding of the Kingdom of our Lord Jesus Christ May the Lord our God grant his smiling approval upon all the efforts of his people to finish the House & establish the Kingdom on the Earth is my continued desire Franklin D. Richards to Wm Clayton on the Trustees in trust ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F22_I7_p004.jpg) [--] Mr William Clayton Nauvoo Hancock Co. Ills [following two lines written at 90 degree angle from original text and along the left edge of the page] [---] F.D. Richards Feby 15th 1845 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F23_p001.jpg) Bishop Whitney: Will you have the kindness to send us by the bearer, the original copy of the Revelation given to 12 elders Feb. 1831, called "The Law of the Church"? We are preparing the old Star for re-printing, and have no copy from which to cor- =rect, and kno of no other beside yours. Your Ab't. Serv't. Oliver Cowdery. Written, Feb. 4, 1835. ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F23_p002.jpg) [unreadable line] for Church [----] Jul [-] 1835 [rotated 90° counterclockwise along lefthand side] 1.23.1 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F24_p001.jpg) Philad[-], Oct 11,th 1844, Eld, Whitney, Dear Br, in the new Covenenat,, Having the opportunity I imbrace it. to send you the money that, I have collected,, or obtained, for the building of the,, Temple of the Lord, in Nauvoo,, The amount has fallen, far short of my expect[--]ion,, But, I, have done my duty, before the Lord &, his people, in this, City,, All will bear me witness,, That, had the liberality of the Saints, been eaquel, to my exertion the same would have been ten-fold, ons, more than what, it no[--] is, on all ocasi when the, Elders;, in this Branch; were going out to preach, I, have requested them to obtain, all they could, for the, Temple Elder, Lutz,, laid the subject before the Saints at, Easton in this State, I in Willmington, De[-],, the amount given, will be conveyed to you by the ch ba[---]er of this, The Clirk, of each, bran an account is requested, to keep, of the, money obtained [-] in the respective Branches, I &c [ninety degree andgle to text on the left sided of the page] Br Lutz will send the Money to Br. Kimball, ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F24_p002.jpg) [following two lines written at a 90 degree angle on the left side of the page] will you pleas write to me as soon as this comes to hand; [two lines written upside down at the top of the page] when Bery comes back from Pittsburg the Many reasons might be assigned for^ [--------]ness of the Saints in this City in not helping to build the Temple the The spirit that you and ^ Twelve have had to contend with in, Nauvoo has been here in full force,, , Eld, Benj Winchester, has walked foremost in the Ranks, of the factions, to oppose the, [---] of the Twelve, & the building of the Temple, Dear, Br, I wish you to assure the,, Twelve that they as well as yourself & many others, have had my prayrs & simpathy in this day of trial, long, long, to & be remembered,,^ never to be forgoton,, I have been absent in body but present in spirit, ,, But alas, I might have been otherwise, had I, not known the mind of our beloved & martird, Prophet, on that point,, I cannot be decieved, I know what he thought of the Twelve,, & also what he thought of Eld Rigdon,, did all know this they would say with me that the Twelve stand in their propper place, I wish to me remembered to all enquaren friends, as [----] your Br. [--] J M. Grant. ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F24_p003.jpg) d PS, Br John, Foreman, who will be baptise this day, is the one selected to len[-] the Temple, money, to Nauvoo; his object in going west is to see the, country & learn a more of our religion, he is ^ worthy yong man from the state of, Del, ,, the, I will now give you names of the Subscribers for the Temple, & the amount given by each Subscriber, [-] , Patient Patience, Hampton 4', Dollars,' Wm Bates, do,, 5, - Wm, Frost, do'5, Elizal Smith do,'5,' ,,, John, Schwortz. one; Dollar, Christiana Read,, do, one, Han[--] Read, on[page torn] Philop, Elphry. one, Deliah, [-], Thomson, 5,0, cts,', Wm : A Adams one; Dollar Wm, John Loyle, one, ^ Milligan one, , George IL Wiser, 50, cts, John Houskeeper 50 cts, Matildia, Coock, 50, cts, Calob, Re[-]e, 25, cts, Noah, Gee, ; 3, Dollars; ,31, Dollars, 25 cts, Br Whitney pleas tell Br Clayton to send me the deed going to George Geffreys; he will sa[-]e me troble by sinding it soon, Br Whitney my Wife wishes you to tell Judge Richards & Wife that there friends in this Country are all well, we were sorry to that went with Elder Rigdon, yours J M. Grant ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F24_p004.jpg) Eld. N. K. Whitney, by the politeness Nauvoo, of Mr. J. Foreman Illinois [following two lines of text written at 90 degree angle along the right edge of page] J. [-] Grant Philladelphia Oct. 11, 44 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F25_I1_p001.jpg) Quincy June 5th 1843 Mr J[-] Smith Dr Sir Enclosed I send you a note on Jacob Shoemaker for Forty 8/100 Dolls $40.08 Int from Jany 1st/42 to June 1/43. [---] $ 6.84 $46.92 which I wish to Donate to the purpose of building the Temple in Nauvoo. Bro. Shoemaker is a Blacksmith & has a shop near the Temple - when I was at Nauvoo I saw him & he said it was impossible for him to pay mony now- but that he had considerable due him & that he was willing to make sacrifices to pay the note. I have no doubt that he would make turns with those who a[-]r indebted to him who would pay in Labor or materials for the Temple - If it can be so arranged please send me a receipt & if it cannot be satisfactorily arranged please send it back the First opportunity as it belongs to the Firm of [----] & Kimball to whom ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F25_I1_p002.jpg) I shall be accountable for it. - I am willing to deduct a reasonable percentage for Collection Very Respectfully Jas. S. Heywood ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F25_I1_p003.jpg) Jas. S. Heywood Quincey [following two lines written at 90 degree angle in center of page] President J. Smith Elder Nauvoo Taylor ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F25_I2_p001.jpg) Quincey Aug 21st 1845 Bishop N.K. Whitney Dr Sir Enclosed is 10$ missouri note which you will please apply to the Credit of John Weinel of this place - on Tithing for the Temple - Yours Truly Jos L. Heywood ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F25_I2_p002.jpg) Joseph L. Heywood Aug[-] 21 1845 [following three lines written at 90 degree angle in center of page] Bishop N.K. Whitney Nauvoo Ills ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F25_I3_p001.jpg) [large hole at top page] Oct 19th 1844 Bishop N.K. [---]ney Dr Sir Enclosed you will find Twenty Dollars is Bank of Mo. which ^ to apply on the Tithings of Bro. John Win[-]ll for the building of the Temple & you will please cause the same to be passed to his Crdit - I do not know whether it is customary for receipts to be given out - but if it would not be too much trouble I should be pleased to have you forward a receipt for amts rcd from me as it would show to the brethren in this vicinity that I had discharged my duty Very Respectfully Joseph L. Heywood ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F25_I3_p002.jpg) [large tear in page eliminating some text] Joseph L. H Oct [--] [the following four lines of text are written at a 90 degree angle] 20 $ Enclo[--] Newell K. Whitney Nauvoo. Ills ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F26_I1_p001.JPG) Bro. Whitney, Quincy Dec. 31. 1844 Messrs. Heywood & Kimball of this place have on hand a large stock of goods that were purchased in the Boston market to the best possible advantage. But in consequence of the large number of new stores recently established, that they find it impossible to effect sales so extensive as they anticipated when they laid in their goods. Now they propose to let you have and any any quantity and or^ quality of dry goods at 121/2 pr ct. advance from their Boston bills that you may wish. And as you have considerable cash to pay out, I thought perhaps you might turn some goods at about 40 or 50 pr ct advance on the origin at cast, leaving a profit to the church of from 25 to 40 pr ct. At the low rate which they offer their goods, they will expect remittance on sale as their liabilities are such as to require it. Should you think this an object worthy your attention, please write me at this place on rec't of this and I shall attend to it on my return from St. Louis. ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F26_I1_p002.JPG) To think of retailing goods in our common way to raise cash would be impolitic and in fine impossible. But when you have large sums to pay in cash, Could you not slip in a few hundred dollars in goods and save a handsome pr ct.? I wish you to counsel with the Brethren and write me the conclusion, be it what it may. They also have a large stock of boots and shoes. And in fine every thing, fine coarse and middling, cotton silk and worsted. If you think you can do this, I wish you would, and tell me what kind of goods you can turn to the best advantage. And I will bring them with me when I come, if it is thought best to undertake on this principle. River is open and a boat is soon expected here, but may not come for several days. No paper to be had in this place for Bro. Taylor, They are all just out here. I am very Respectfully Your brother in Christ O. Hyde ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F26_I2_p002.JPG) Bishop Whitney, St. Louis Feb. 27. 1845 I have this day shipped on board the Osprey for you 29 Bars Iron Amtg. to $26.46 Also 6 Bars Cast Steel (105lb) @ 22 c 23.10 [torn paper] nails at 4.87 1/2 19.50 1 Ball Oil (37 Galls) at 75 Ball 1.00 28.75 10 Kegs white lead @ 1.67 16.70 3 Galls Turpentine Can .75 @ 60c 2.55 Drapage $117.06 50 $117:56 Also, one small Box to L.R. Foster. All marked W. Nauvoo. The oil and lead and turpentine I suppose is purchased to replace that that was borrowed of me: but if you need this to use now, use it of course. If you need screws, you may call or send to my house, and I think you may find several Goofs that may answer your purpose. I am about out of cash. It is rather hard to raise it just now. Prospects very good here. And an excellent feeling prevails among the Saints and also with many others. [torn paper] arrangment is going on between Sidney Rigdon and others to prove polygamy against some persons in Nauvoo. Now I think it will be hard for Rigdon on any of his party to swear to a thing that does not exist. Or if it does exist, he or his party must be guilty. I see this course is recommended in the papers in this city: But still I think people will have more sense than to undertake it. Tell Bro. Foster that the charges on his box were near Six Callars. He sent 4 Calls by me, and 2 I got of Bro. Dexter. He must pay you the freight I shall be at home in the course of a week or 10 days from the time you get this. See the materials or articles I send you are of the very best quality. In haste Respectfully Yours Orson Hyde. ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F26_I2_p003.JPG) Bill $117.56c Iron, Nails &c Feby 27th 1845 [rotated 90° counterclockwise on left side] 1.26.2 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F26_I3_p001.JPG) St. Louis March 5./45 Bros Whitney & Miller, I have received your note requesting fuze rope powder &c. To purchase the articles I sent you by the osprey, I borrowed 100 dolls of a man who was going to Nauvoo to buy lands. I gave him a letter to Elder Young, requesting him to sell this Bro. Land belonging to the Church if possible: He accordingly called several times at Elder Young's house but said he did not find him, neither find any one that seemed to feel inte[--]y enough to tell him where he could be found. This Bro. went else where and purchased, paid out all his money and has returned here and wants the hundred dollars. Yesterday, I paid him 20 dolls and know where about 25 dollars more are to come from, then I shall still owe him 55 dolls and where it is to come from I know not. But still, I shall do all in my power. The brethren here are mostly poor. Those who have faith, have little or no cash, and those who have cash, have little or no faith. But still I will try to raise the means to fill your order, but if you send for more, I want you to send the cash to buy it with, for I know of no chance to raise it here now. It will probably require 40 00 50 Dolls to fill your bill. As Ever Yours, O. Hyde. ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F26_I4_p001.JPG) Boston Augt 24 1843 Bishop Whitney, note Enclosed is a certain ^ against Bros Pratt & Brannan for borrowed money. I have received it as tithing upon condition that Bro. Pratt and the balance of you agree to it. I you agree to receive it as tithing, please credit it to the following persons-- Mary Petitt $50= Mary Ann Petitt 50= Ira Petitt 50= $150. If you shall not receive it as tithing, please enclose it in a note and address it to Ira Petitt, New Hempstead. L.I. New York. To find tithing in these kind of notes does not afford very flattering prospects to buy canvass. I will not receive them as tithing unless you agree to it. By accounts, Bro. Joseph Ball is any thing but a pure hearted man. He is represented as very corrupt like Adams.—He is gone to Nauvoo. You will no doubt have an eye to him. I shall not return so soon as I expected. Will you see that my family are helped a little if necessary ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F26_I4_p002.JPG) [pencilled in] 1.26.4 I shall succeed in getting the canvass, if God will. My constant exertion in this very hot weather has injured my health, and I think I shall ship the canvass in about 2 weeks or 3 to Whitney and Miller, and get it insured, and then stay long enough to catch the cool sea breezes and recruit a little. Prospects very good. The Church is nearly free from the effects of Rigdonism, and nearly free from a worse malady- Adams ism and Bal[-] ism. This letter is sent by Bro. Kimball who leaves to morrow for Nauvoo. My kind love to my wife, family and friends. I shall try to be at home in Octo. if all be well. My kind[-] regard[-] to yourself, family and all the Brethren. As ever you[-] Brother Orson Hyde ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F27_p001.jpg) To the Recorder of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints: Respected Friend and Brother I take this oppertunity to Send to you two small Receits of Daniel Money that I sent by the hand of Elder ^ hea[---] toward building of the temple of God at Nauvoo and likewis two Dollars I sent by the hand of Elder Martin Harris the last I have no recpt to send but I confide in the honesty of brother harris a[-]knowledge (ment of the same he received it at my hand in Colchester Madison County New york: Brother not knowing your name nor yet the correctness in sending it to you for to be recorded if I am incorrect Please hand this over to the right officer to be recorded I Send this to you by the hand of [-] Eli Hinman my wifes brother he is not a member of any Church but I consider him a trusty hand to send thi communication by he is to take a journey through the western States to see the glory of the new but Promist land and among the Rest of her beauties [-] he will See Nauvoo and the temple of [-] God which is one of the wonders of the e world to this generation if you can Pleas let som ^ one accompany him and give him such answers to questions as he Should ask as they in wisdom Should I think best while I thus wright my heart burns within me to be whare I could meet with you and enjoy a fore m taste of that Sabath of rest which is to com ^ ence in this generation. Altho I cannot expect to live to see it in the presant State of exzistance but I do believe I shal in a resurrected body if I live by evry word that proceeds out of the mouth of God and this I am determid to do the Lord being my helper I can say I love the Brothering Although you are Strangers to me and I to you when you are afflicted by this ungodly generation I fe[-]l the Smart and when you are made prosperous and happy by the hand of the Lord I feal to rejoice and when I view by an eye of faith the temple of God and think of the glory that awaits his People I say to my Self whare is Brother Joseph and ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F27_p002.jpg) Hiram Smiths Shall they who ware Slain for the word of God and the testamony of jesus Christ Shal they loose their reward on the earth faith says no she points me to the reurrection morn when Gabriels Trumpet shall awaik their now Sleeping dust and they come forth reunited Soul and body washed and made white in the blood of the Lamb) Ah glorious Morning of a new creation Lord jesus give me this New birth I must close this pleasin meditation for the present Please give my love to Elder Dunham and Sister Sikes n and all i quiring Friends Pray for us that we may be faithful and have a speedy oppertunity to dispose of our little Property hear and be one with you thare Please send a line or a few lines by the bearer of this Scribble [--] I am old and iliterate and my hand Palsyd for the grave thearfore pardon a friend this from a friend and brother and Sent to a friend and broher in the Church of jesus Christ of latter day Saints in the New and Everlasting Covenant although Srangers to each other. May the 16th 1845 Town[-] of Stockbridge Madison County New york PM if any of our Elders come this way I would be pleasd to have them Call and see me I am a lone and far from any brethren Abel Ingraham ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F27_p003.jpg) Abel Ingraham May 11, -1845 [following 4 lines of text written at 90 degree angle in center of page] To the Recorder of the Church of the Latter day Saints in Nauvoo Handcock County Illanois State ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F28_I1_p001.JPG) General Land Office June 21st 1841 Sir In answer to your letter of the 3rd instant. I have to state, that the South East quarter of Section 33 in [illegible] North of Range [--] West of the 4th principal Meridian in Illinois was patented the 5th October 1818. On Bounty Land Warrant No. 1700 in favor of Rigneer I. Vangeesen late a private in Shermans company 211[--] Regiment of Infantry, and sent on the 19th. October 1837. to Isaac L. Kibbie Esq. New York I am Very Respectfully Your Obt Servant JW. Whitcomb, Commissioner Daniel Miles Esq. Warsaw. Hancock Co Illinois [light pencil below] see [---] Fre[--]ich he lives near Kibbie ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F28_I1_p002.JPG) [Stamp] WASHINGTON CITY D.C. JUN 22 General Land Office JW. Whitcomb [Stamp over text] FREE Daniel Miles Esq. Warsaw. Hancock County Illinois [pencil rotated 90° clockwise] 1.28.1.2 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F28_I2_p001.JPG) Chicago, Ill. Feb. 9. 1845 Dear Uncle: Your welcome letter is just at hand, and I belie the character of the Miles's, by answering it without delay. I think you are right about the best way to manage that land title and I will en= deavour to write to [--]releigh before long a= bout it. I think I told you that I had been as far East as Cleveland only. I did not get as much patronage East of Lake Michigan, as I do west. They have paid me here one hundred & seventy Dollars for 12 Lectures. I lecture this present week at Southport, Wis. Ter. and then go south towards St. Louis. I can not say whether I shall call at Nauvoo or not. They would doubtless pat= ronise me some, if there is any money there. I don't lecture for nothing. I received a letter from home a short time since. Our people are all well. My health is good. Give my love toall yo[-] people; and excuse a short letter Write me at St. Louis soon. Ev[--] your friend & Nephew Pliny Miles Daniel S. Miles ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F28_I2_p002.JPG) [Stamp] CHICAGO ILL. FEB 10 Daniel S. Miles Esq. Nauvoo, Hancock Co. Illinois ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F29_I1_p001.JPG) [illegible line] NK Whitne[torn page] Sir Mr Thos. [torn page] Who will hand you this [torn page] [torn page][--]ould & f[--] of the Lumber [torn page] [-]o[-] proposed To let us have [torn page] M $1200 per M. or Taking all he has. [-] $11[--] per M. You can exercise your judgment in the matter. I shall go on the next boat. until I find all we wanted you May [illegible] [illegible] to day that we do not need The price of Lumber will be high in all probability. Yours truly George Miller ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F29_I1_p002.JPG) George Miller April 27 1845 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F29_I2_p001.JPG) Jan St Louis 3, 1845 [torn page]rge Miller. Dear Sir, [torn page] has blessed me thus far on my mission I left home with out purse of script not knowing the things that might befall me in the flesh But my confidence is great in the arm of the Lord. The Quorum of the twelve and all other official orders of the Kingdom Praying God in the name of Jesus Christ to protect and prosper me to do his will as a faithful and wise Steward in his Kingdom [torn page] praying my Brethren to pass by [torn page] ctions and uphold me [torn page] my family by their prayers that [torn page] may magnify my calling and assist in my weakness to strengthen the hands and cheer the hearts of my Brethren in the Kingdom. Brethren I Stand as your servant to move at the first call to any place asking no questions but trusting in the Lord and the authorities of his Kingdom Beloved Brethren I am willing to moove as the Hosts of Heaven do when the command is given they all moove as the sun rises [torn page] and sheds her rays with out [torn page] for her ligh allways onward and the same Brethren will you forgive me this once all my imperfections and be slow to hearken to my enemies for the Devil hates me five times Before I was a member of the Kingdom my enemies distroyed all my possessions and lef me destitute of food clothing or even a place to Lay my head and even sought my life Prove me this once and try me and I will pray for wisdom [torn page] improve till he come I will sanctify [torn page] yself and familly and pray to god to e[--]et my offering and sanctify me through his word ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F29_I2_p002.JPG) I shall leave this City in [torn page] Seamer Vally forge, I left h [torn page] paying my taxes either S[-]ate [torn page] and I have sent yo [torn page] Pres O. Hide Will either yourself or Brother Clayton pay my tax at Cartha [torn page] and if any is left pay my city tax and oblige yours With much respet to you and all my Brethren in the Bonds of the everlasting covenant Dr. Samuel Parker. Mey love to My dear wife [torn page] dren ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F29_I2_p003.JPG) I have recd of Doct. Parker $1.00 to pay to Bro. Miller St Louis mo. Jan 3. 1845 O Hyde To Pres George Miller Nauvoo City Hancock. Co. Ill, ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F29_I3_p001.JPG) Messrs. Miller & Clayton, Since I was at your office I have thought of some small demands I hold against individuals in Nauvoo which I will offer you in the trade in contemplation. One of about 4 Dolls against Mr Annis. The note is in Egr Jackmans hands. One of 7- against Thos Williams, for wood he has taken & received the cash for & has not paid me for it. he has stone cutting tools at the temple. I think likewise I have an equitable claim on Mr Rae. for the damage I have sustained . and when you are convinced of the facts tion I confidently believe your goodness will respond to the assump It can be no extenuation of the offense to say he had permission, (though I know not that he pretends it) For no one has a just right to enjoy it themselves much less to grant it to him. The winter has been mild & the ground most of the time soft. And my newly sowed clover field will be about ruined. He has had 3. & some of the time 4 horses & five head of cattle which have wintered on me save a few days when he first arrived. It has been at least 10 Dollars benefit to him & more than that damage to me, I will say then that I will add these claims to the tax title Transfer - at a venture whether the title is jenuine or not, for the sake of expediting the trade as I shall soon take my departure. It is not because I want the house or lot. I had rather sell 10 acres than purchases. But it is merely to guard against future encroachments. If Mr Rae moves out immediately. I shall feel myself obligated to pay you rent for the house whether occupied or not until a trade is con sumated. I have paid the tax on this lot every year (with my own) since I conveyed it as my receipts will show. The hostile aspect of the times & humor[-] with her thousand tongu [torn page] and knowing as I do the effort that has been made to array the brotherhood against me, which may take effect & work uncontroverted in my absence, it may not be inappropriate or amiss briefly to state that since the church came from Missouri I have had on my premises. Pleasant End. Wm Champlin. In[-] Davis -- Thornhill. 2 families of Evens'. 2 of Jackmans. N. Knigh[-] & Taylor & with all the most perfect cordiality & good feeling existed. In my travels for more than 2000 miles to the eastward I at all times & under all circumstances advocated the cause ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F29_I4_p001.JPG) [damaged] Camp Creek Feb 19th [torn page] Miller, Dear [--]. [torn page] Pontoosue The most [torn page] ffer trade away their property- [torn page] mobi- effect a trade with Mr [torn page] his farm & lots-. I told [torn page] would ot give him any more fa [torn page] than his farm in prop[-]tion [torn page] [--] offers to exchange Acre for [torn page] have seen they seem to be extrem [torn page] [-]ious To trade, Mr. Spil[-]an will [torn page] with me to the north part of this [torn page] - Pratt Wm Benom Etherton one of th E[torn page]rtons & John B Trill have & will trade out Bretherin in stark Co.- But more particularly my [-]ffect in writing to you is to get you concil is- in relation wither I sho We shall try to get it into the all old man D Sangers - hair of Ottawa to trade of Appanoose- of out. Q M Higbee & others v & we get possession of the place; it can be traded for will Right- I v tell you the Idea that occured my to me, the Reason of ^ writing to you for council the prospect looks fair now of tradeing with all of the farmers all along the timber b[-]ok from Appanoose & if we would get possession of Pontoosue we would have Appanoose surrounded & then [--] would die a natural Death without our being under any necesity of giving them any thing for their property & I wish for council wither I shall do no[-] or not -- Finch & Bolenson has taken in to ten thousand Bushells of wheat this year Yours with love Respect William An[torn page]erson NB pleas send by Br Barlors Friday morning when he comes out ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F29_I4_p002.JPG) Wm Anderson Feby 19-45 [text rotated 90° counter-clockwise] Rev. George Miller one of the trustees in trust Nauvoo (Ill) ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F29_I5_p001.JPG) Bloomington April 28th 1845 N K Whitney Dr Sir I hasten to lay before you the present prospect of getting Lumber. I am turning all the lumber I can see to Nauvoo. They all ask from 12 to 15 dollars per thousand. There was a very large raft passed here last night I could not get on it. but the bearer of this, letter says he will overtake them and turn th[---] in to Nauvoo. And I shall continue to send all I can see, or ortherwise influence to go our place. I shall leave the first Boat going up, & not stop until I get logs to make the thick lumber, The course I am taking will Land all the Lumber at our place, and must see to buying of it. I do not expect to pay out. any money except for the logs and my expences -- you may therefore make your calculations accordingly. The logs may cost me $5.— per [-] feet. probable around $150 You shall he[--] from me every oppertunity Sincerely your friend George Miller ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F29_I6_p001.JPG) Chicago July 5th 1845 G. Miller Dear Sir [-]. I just returned from searchig all the warehouses in the City for the glass it was all in vain I could get no trace of it I shall leave to morrow morning at 5. o clock on board of the Champeon for Detroit I shall make all possable hast I can as I re leise the glass is much needed and it has on ly been unvoid able and Deep Afflictions that has prevented me make ing the trip along since I feel extremly anxois to be with the Saints but I am deter[-]end not to come till I bring the glass on a true account of it I have done all in my power to get the glass but have accompleshed nothing as yet immedately on the opening of Navigatio[water damage] the Spring I left Penn for Chicag the Distr[water damage] of 100 miles and after travleng 40 miles on foot I was taken sick being confined about 10 day s a brother took me home to Nauvoo after resting there a few days I left again for Chic[torn page] the [--]ne th[--] [torn page] ng [-] engag[-] in [rip between top half and bottom half of page] Wagg on [torn page] in the city of Chicago on the 26th of Ap [torn page] not being able to go out my self I sent two of the B[water damage]thren to examine all the [water damage]are in houses of the City and to learn of the Clerks if the glass had come but after deligent search ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F29_I6_p002.JPG) they returned having heard nothing of it and my sickness increasing I left the City on the first day of May in the stage for Ottowa where I was confined to my bed untill the 10th of June then my health began graduly to be restored on the 25th of the same month I began to keep school and on the 29th received Orders for Ruben Miller to go on to Detroit &c, accordingly on the 4th of July I took stage for the City of Chicago (have been detained a few Days at home to make provisions to leave my family) in great Haste I Sbuscribe myself your fellow labourer in last dispensations G.P. Dykes To G. Miller Esqu P. S. I desire the prayers of the saints that my health may be restored as I am yet feble ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F29_I7_p001.JPG) [-]eo, Miller Ana[-]bour July [-] [-]845 Dear Sir in hast I take my pen to address you a line to inform you that I am still alive & thankful for it I have been to Detroit & thence to the glass works business was all out of Joint & they did not intend to send the glass o[-] the pay they had got for it, Grovie[-] & Hall were not the men to mak the contract with (so Mr Tinker tried to make it appear) on my arrival in the city I imid[-]ately went to [illegilbe] he had heard nothing of it, I then wen[-] to the agency of Detroit, for the Michigan glass w[--]ks, & ther[-] I found the glass marked F, Stodard, &c, & I mad enquire why the glass was not sent according to agreement the Agent was very Ignorant at first, but at length said he would Enquire into it I told him the contract & produced the paper[-] & he begin to think I was in good Earnest about it but said Mr Drigs was absent & would not return for two weeks & there could be nothing done till he c[-]me as he was the Agent at M,t cl[-]emins for the glass works I told him I woud go to the glass work in se[-] Grover with whom the business was done & ask him if an ord[--] from Grovier would bring the glass he said not that Grovier was considered as aman not capable of doing business & they would fill none of his. contracts or orders &c—I then went to the Livery stable & got a horse & buggy & went to M,t Clemons & paid this Tinker of a[-]gent two Dollars to go with me then, we found Mr G[-]ovier a Gentllman he made many appollogies for not se[-]ing ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F29_I7_p002.JPG) the Glass bef[-]re, h[-] said as fast as they got a box [torn paper] they set it by & it was not untill last Monday [torn paper] that the bill was filled out but instead of its being sea[torn paper] to Kircheval it had to pass through this Mr. Tinker's hand & he was going to keep it untill he could get other pay as the pay they got di[-] not suit them &c, s I was with in a close place, as the contract was made by the wrong man at length after some time disputing I got the Glass & it is to be forwarded tomorrow on a propeller thats coming up the Lakes, I am allmost tempted to go back to Detroit & wait to see it all on board a boat as I fear that there is not honor Enough in any forwarding Merchan[-] there to send it, I would go down but my traveling bill is swelld now to a large amount to what I expected when I left home it is a do[--]ar for almost every thing here in hast I close yours with Due Respect G, P, Dykes ps the cars leave for Detroit in a few m[--]rs & Since writing the above I have returend to Detroit & the Glass is now on the way up the Lake Thank the Lord, but not this Devil of a Tinker G,P,D. ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F29_I8_p001.JPG) Mr Miller Presidint Dear brother [-]as it has become my duty to call on you for a little sustainance I think [--] not to detain you with useless talk in your much business I will therefore [-]ore in as few words as I can by what authority I ask a little of you then you [-]be able to answer me in a word wether I merit it or not. Two years come June [-]me up from the south with my family & some saints I bought a house & Lot [-]all the money I had & some property for it I also bought 20 acres of patent [-]I [-]t to the prarie to make it a fruitfull field which I have done my [-] w[-] the so[-]s able to do good work & one almost a babe & two [-] all worked in & out doors & not withstanding war & wet [-]ty for our suppot tho to our rejoiceing late last fall two familys of [-]en came up from the same place and brot me a wagon & 2 horses & a [-] which was comeing to me I paid up my tytheing as you see I also boght [-] in the Nauvoo House I have also paid my tytheing on the Seventies Hall. [-]t. Two of my sons & daughter to cultivate the farm giving a fine prospect of [-] two of the stoutest sons is working in the quary under the direction of the [-]e the first day of last week we have corn bread for them yet a while our come [-] will soon,, only ask for a little meat & a little flour to make a cake to take [-] to the place of work a little molassis & a little salt & after a while they will [-]ir of bo[-]ts & a coat but not till you believe they have earned them [-]determined not to leave if our labor is of servis here we are willing for you John Workman. Sr ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F29_I8_p002.JPG) 1462.98 631.90 801.08 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F30_p001.jpg) City of Nauvoo, Ill. March 22 1843 Dear sir:- I have long thought that I would write a few lines to you and see if you had not got nearly enough of old Missouri. I am now laboring for the prophet, in company with Elder Willard Richards [--] of the Twelve and we enjoy ourselves first rate as the Transgressers say: And we and The rest of the "Twelve" would like to see you very much. You and Oliver ordained the Twelve:- and they think be= cause any of us get hurt in our children's not play, we aught ^ to be mad always, and just so I think. you and your father's folks and John had better move into a "free state." one of you can come down and see in what the Saints are at ^ Nauvoo, and see how it seems to come from darkness to light. Give my respects to your people Yours in Ev. gospel [----] WW Phelps ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F30_p002.jpg) David Whitmer Richmond Ray Co Mo. [following two lines written at 90 degree angle in center of page] March 22-1843 W.W. Phelps ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F31_p001.jpg) FairHaven 8th Novr. 1842 Rev. Sidney Rigdon D. [-]ir - I have sometime since written to Mr. Jos. Smith relative to the situation of affairs at Nauvoo but suppose from the multi- plicity of his engagements that he has not found it convenient to give me an answer -- Will you sir oblige me by saying whether there are a large number of buildings errected upon our lands and if possible how many and the kind of buildings -- Also the circumstances under which they were built or in other words what kind of Bond was given those who built? -- I am dis- posed to be liberal upon the subject of these lands but is certainly right that we should have some information regarding them -- Can I do any thing to benefit you and at the same time assist th[-]se who have built by coming out to Nauvoo? -- I see the taxes have not been paid upon the lots -- This of course must be attended to by somebody -- Your obl[---] Horace R. Hotchkiss ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F31_p002.jpg) [no text] ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F31_p003.jpg) [--] FREE Rev. Sidney Rigdon Post Master Nauvoo Hancock Co. Illinois [following two lines written at 90 degree angle on the left side of page] H.R. Hotchkiss Novr 8th 1842 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F32_p001.jpg) Pittsburgh, Nov. 11th. 1842 To Willard Richards, Sir[-] I now forward the box of win- dow glass which I promised when you was in Pitts- burgh, by brother Whittaker, which I desire to have recorded as a donation to the Temple. so no more at present from your's in the everlasting cov'nant John Smith. Mr Clayton my impission is the above glass is the right size for. the Lash made for the Turtle [-]ouse about to be buld W. Zubed ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F32_p002.jpg) Willard Richards Nauvoo Illinois. ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F33_I1_p001.jpg) [page is town across the top making some text unreadable] [--]cerning the nature, I have caused to be published respecting your self and Nauvoo. will be acceptable, I have by the present mail enclosed you a Burlington pa[torn page][---] a [- - - -] sketch of the short visit I made in November last. I regret that I lost the Tract, which the Doctor gave me [---]taining the Mormon faith, but some one took it from me as I passed up the Ohio.- please present my respects to him and request him to send me one by mail please also present my kind regards to your good Lady. Brother Hirum, and the friends I was introduced to. I have been expecting to hear from you respecting the land of which I left a memorandum and you will oblige me much if you let me hear from you. I ought to save a part of it and I have indulged the belief that you would contrive some way to aid me in getting [-------] on getting a Lot Title, - can you not pursuade the person who is on one of the lots to take a lease under one for one or both lots. - you will recollect they are the South East and South West Quarters of section three, in Township Six North in Range Eight West ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F33_I1_p002.jpg) [top and right side of page is torn, unclear] Deed. A short time [- [---] my [---] Illinois, --I received a letter from a Mr. Kimball of in Illanois this State who said his brother ^ was desirous of getting hold of the [----], - if he lives in Nauvoo. he might be app[--]ed to.. and I will thank you after receipt of this if you or your friends will give some attention to this matter, and let me hear from you Very Respectfully Your able Sevt Nathan B [-]asnell ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F33_I1_p003.jpg) J s eye E R ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F33_I1_p004.jpg) [small paper fragments] ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F33_I1_p005.jpg) Gen Joseph Smith Nauvoo. Illinois [following line written at 90 degree angle along right edge of page] Ansd. Feby 29 ____._____ ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F33_I1_p006.jpg) Genl Joseph Smith Nauvoo Illinois ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F33_I2_p001.jpg) Brandywine Chester Co August 20th 1841 Esteemed Brother in the Gosple As Brothers Gheen and Hunter leaves here to morrow morning for your place, I embrace this opportunity to drop a line, as Brother Gheen has not sold his property yet, I wish you to supply him with some property ther on My Account; And Brother Whitesides has written to me for money; As money is scarce with me at this time, having my stock on hand yet, and meeting with difficulties, a little as he did I am under the painful necesity of sending him your note, if you can answer it, it will me oblidge ^ verry much, and him too I expect, If you cant do it, I hope ere long to be there and attend to it myself, my heart sickens within me to see the conduct in th[-]s place at this time. We are all well at present and hope this will find you & Family enjoying the blessings of health and peace we wish to be remembered to all enquiring friends, With sentiments of respect I subscribe myself yours as ever. Joseph Smith Robt Peirce ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F33_I2_p002.jpg) Letter from Robt. Peirce to Jos: Smith Augst. 20- 1841 [following 4 lines written upside down in center of page] Joseph Smith Nauvoo of Illinois [illegible text] ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F33_I3_p001.jpg) Quincy Nov: 23rd 1841 Genl. Joseph Smith Dear Sir Messrs Halsted, Haines & Co. of New York, have placed in our hands for collection, two promissory notes, signed by yourself and Thirty one other individuals, both of said notes dated Kirtland, Sept 1st 1837, one for $2323.66 and the other for $2395.57 cents. Not wishing to give you unnecessary trouble in the premises, we have thought proper to advise you that the notes were in our hands, and to ask, when it will suit your convenience to make payment? If part of the demand could be paid us now, and the residue secured upon real Estate, we would take [---] [-]esponsibility of giving a [--]sonab[-] extension of time We are Sir very Respectfully Your friends Browning & Bushnell P.S. Will you oblige us by an answer at your earliest convenience B. & B[-] ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F33_I3_p002.jpg) Brownell & Bushnell to Joseph Smith November. 23/41 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F33_I4_p001.jpg) Dec. 14th,1[-]41 Brother Joseph, Long continued sickness prevented me from seeing you, which I have greatly desired - I have more reasons than one for this, One principal one is, I want to be more fully reconciled and give that satisfaction which it is my duty to do, I am unable to go to you; I entreat you Brother Joseph give me the opportunity, By coming to see me, before me before I die. I most earnestly desire this Interview, not to be delayed; pardon my importunity Brother Joseph for but [torn page] Dying man. [torn page] reason of [torn page: illegible text] in [torn page] of general sickness in the my family, we have not been able to provide the necessaries of life for the winter. and unless you brother Joseph, will smal sum of help us with the ^ money of I lent you, we must unavoid ably suffer- I Dear Brother, ^ entreat you, do not be grieved nor me offended with ^ for this liberty I have taken with you, and l[-]t it not prevent you, ([--] it not prevent you) from coming to see me speed[-]ly if in your power. I If agreeable to you, as pres[--]e it would, I would I be glad if Elder Law would accompany you. Please present my sincer respects to Mrs. Smith. Greaty desiring to see your face, I remaine Dear brothe[-], yours in the Kingdom and pat[--]e of our Lord Jesus Christ Jacob Scott. Joseph Smith Esqr Nauvoo. ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F33_I4_p002.jpg) Joseph Smith Esqr Nauvoo ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F33_I5_p001.jpg) Fairfield Iowa[-] July 12th 1842 To Joseph Smith, Dr Sir. Permit me to introduce to your favorble favorable nature William K. Wear a younger Brother of mine. who has lately came from Ohio & has concluded to sett[-]e in your county to follow t[-] practise of the [-]aw. any asted asistan -ce you can do will him will be thankfully received by him & me your most Obedient Respectfully &.c. [-].C. Wear ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F33_I5_p002.jpg) [-].C. Wear Fairfield. Iowa Janary 1841 [the following three lines written at a 90 degree angle in center of page] To Joseph Smith Nauvoo Illinois ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F34_I1_p001.jpg) Frederick co V.A. April 22th 1842 Dear Brother I have been Preaching from 2 or three times a week on a average since I left but cannot see much good I have done since I left: haveing preached only a few sermons in any one place: and fear at times I have not done as I ought But when I think of the passage he that doethe will of God shall know it: all fear and dought remoove And again when I reflect upon what I have done all is for the good of those ye who love god. And why take ^ ke thought for ye cannot [--]dd one cubet to your statue These [-]are cheering which rebounds unto the glory of the Lord our God that we may know of a surety that the lord our God will proceede to make bare his holy arm in the eyes of all nations weald in the strength of his power that all the ends of the earth may see his salvation and come to the kowledge of the Lord our God. Oh God t[-]ou wilt pour thy spir- -it to the sh[--]g abroad of thy glory that they s[----]tion may come! that all my kno[--] to wrest upon the alone. Oh [---] thy glory thou wilt send they hono[--]r thou wilt not give unto ano[-]ther that all may know the that there is none else besides thee. Oh God mayn[-]fy the law and make it honourab[--]: for thou hasst said ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F34_I1_p002.jpg) And than preformest. Shall the afflicted be tossed; shall the righteous be tramped under foot. And shall those who love the be afflicted by a brother; or one brother afflict an other. Shall these things be or ought they so to be : are thes thyne elect in whom thou art well pleased or hast thou an other. Who is thyne elect. in whom thou art pleased: is it not ritten election hath obtained it and by there fruits ye shall know them. Oh God that isrel may repentt yea all those that grieved. May come to aknowledge to [page torn] ow. that by this they may, know [page torn] they are borne again seeing they keep the command -ments. Now if w[-] keep not the comand- -ments of God neat[-]er can we know him or recieve the things of him Now thou hast [page torn]aid and wise even unto salvation ; And what thou hast said thou has purposed : and even that thou wilt preformed. for thou hast revield it and thou wilt preform And who [page torn]ast know it : who hast call upon th[page torn] ho hast sought after thee who [page torn] found thy ways out to whom hast thou made them kown: who hast walk in righteous news before thee : or keep a cle[page torn] concience to words the. Blessed be the name of the lord our God who hast said I will be found of those who sou[page torn]ht not after me ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F34_I1_p003.jpg) Now it is Oh G[torn page]od we will prais the [torn page] thou has a long time holden thy peace [torn page] wilt cry yea roar who is thy enemies [torn page] is it that is no[torn page] for thee: for thou h[torn page] said he it is tho[torn page] is against thee: and [torn page] that gatereth no[torn page]ith the scatereth [torn page] who wilt sea[torn page] thy flock. The [torn page] thou wilt lead by [torn page] way they know not: for they shall be gr[torn page]y asshamed who trust in graven images tha[torn page] say to the molten images ye are Our God. [torn page] or Oh God as it is ritten what thou turn them back. Now Oh God ^ purposed m[torn page] be preformed. O [torn page] thy Kingdom come[torn page] and thy will [torn page] done on earth aga[torn page] where in etern[torn page] righteousnessness [-][torn page] for ever neigh[torn page]nd thy glory shall ]torn page] forever riseing b[torn page] in view. And tha[torn page] God eternaly reig[torn page] And blead no more a lam again. And [torn page] the blessings of the God of heaven a[torn page] you even so Amen Saml C. Brown I xpect to g[torn page]n through london to Baltimore in a [torn page] weeks and should lik[torn page] to have an other [torn page]py of the times [torn page] reasons forware[-] [torn page] hills borough land [torn page] va. I now send [torn page] nty five dollars [torn page] Edmond T[-]utle [torn page] ay him for puting a fence aroung [torn page] lot and improveing it if the fence is [torn page] please give him this letter if not not [torn page]form him the [-]oney is ready as soo[page torn] as done I would send more but have not yet collecte it. but shall it witt [torn page] my return ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F34_I1_p004.jpg) For Edward Butler when samuel Browns fence is completed [following five lines written at a ninety degree angle] 50 Joseph Smith Nauvoo Hancock Co Ill[---] [following four lines written upside down at the right side of the page] for Edward Butle [---] Samuel [-] Browns fence is completed ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F34_I2_p001.jpg) [torn page] recommend [torn page] upon enquiry en close that also. In addition to what Bro Lee [torn page] has paid to the Temple building for me [torn page] I have given him a note on one of the brethren in Nauvoo for $20 - which I hope will be paid in Immediately. Sister Smoot will pay in a fifty Dollar horse for me & I am sending up some valua ble [---]k property by Bro Lee to purchas an in heritance for me among the Saints. where I hope, I pray God, that he will give me, Resolution and firmness ever to the last to cont[---]d earnestly for the faith, for the cause [-] and welfare of his people and inspire my heart with pure zeal & true devotion to the end. that if my brother suffers I may never as many have done, prove unfaithful and deny the only Lord God. but hear my [-]art faithfully I have confidence that if I can be Baptized in the fai[--] I shall be healed of a hereditary disease I [---], and ever have been laboring under. what is known by the name of sick head ache I hope to be with the saints soon in hope of eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord, I subscribe myself your Brother, in the bonds of the new and everlasting covenant. Alphonso Young P S. I have directed Bro Lee to deliver you a good Livery to be appropriated in my name to the building of the Temple, she is young a good [torn page] and with foal I expect by a large luck.: A. Y. ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F34_I2_p002.jpg) Alph[---] [----] May 6th 1842 politeness of L.D. Lee Mr. Joseph Smith Nauvoo - Illinois. ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F34_I3_p001.jpg) [left edge of page torn off] [page torn] few lines [--] brother Joseph forward it to him [page torn]on as posible [-] May the 23th May the 23th 1842 Providense Saratoga Co NY Dear br[-]ther in the Lord I am well at the preasant and that [torn page] fewlines may find you in joying the same the work the Lord [torn page]pering in all parts as fair as I can [-]ear such acry for preach [page torn]ing I never seen it has been very cold and dry this spring and has p [page torn] evry axeurianse of farmin and the peaple are much britened about the [page torn]eraten I wish that you would notice in the times and seasons that [page torn] [--] established a small Branch of the Church in Windom [page torn] Co Ny and they request that Elders coming that way [page torn] call if they please) I wrot to you about some property ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F34_I3_p002.jpg) [right edge of page is torn] that was prefered to be given for the house of the lord [page torn] part was to be given but have reseved no answer from you [page torn] Concluded you thought it not best to take it if you do I wish [page torn] to write to New york City as soon as you receive this Pleas send the times and seasons to Elijah Fuller to win[-]dom, Pa Green County Ny for one yea[page torn] ning with the first number of abrihams history and I will send you the money for the same the [page torn] first safe apertunity and hold my self responsible for the same, pray for me and for my sucess in the redeemers cause yours with respe[page torn] Joseph Smith Moses Ma[page torn] ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F34_I4_p001.jpg) [the page has been horizontally torn in two parts, and partway vertically, obscuring some text] Springfield Ill May 31[--] 1842 Dear sir I take this opportunity of writing a few words to you to give you the principle news of this City and to tell you the fine [-]rospects we have of a great revival. I do think sir that it will not be long before you will hear of a great revival; to go too our church now and to see the crouded house to see [at least 2 lines illegible because of the tear] [page torn] [-]beau [page torn] [---]a inside and out, so deeply affecte[torn page] ; it makes me mon feel glad I say and think that bef[page torn]re long the mor (as the Vulgur schoose to call them) rule al[page torn] America, Asia, Europe, and Africa and about that li[page torn]e I think that Christ will appear and wont tha[pate torn] be a glorius ah [---] heavenly time. But now to differen[page torn] news for I have not got much time to spend about the subject I like to talk about best. Our brethren ab[page torn] t here are all pretty well I believe and the citiz[page torn]ns in general. On last saturday the Locomotive as she was coming from Meridosia about midway fr[page torn] Jacksonville the piston rod on the main shaft bro[page torn] but they went ahed some farther untill within 3 [page torn]iles of Jack= sonville when she got smashed into a perfect cocked hat. I have not time to say much more so I come to a close Yours respectively William. Worthyson PS sir I wish you to answer this letter soon and tell me how the City is growing and h[--] you are getting along in religeon and so forth this is all I have to say so goodby Worthyson ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F34_I4_p002.jpg) [page is vertically torn in two parts] [-] Q[page torn] Rev Joseph Smith Norvea [page torn] single Ill[page torn] [following 2 lines written at 90 degree angle on the left edge of the page] Wm Worthyson May 31st 1842 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F34_I5_p001.jpg) [there is a vertical tear obscuring text along much of page] Nauvoo Jul 21 [page torn] 1842 H[--]ss J. Smith Sir I have to pay 200 dolls to get the loan for 100d I wish to get [---]e loan of 100d until I get to [---] field where I have funds [---] you could recommend at [page torn] me I will will pay you - in could give [---] on the Suff olk Bark Boston but I am not Known here and could not get it cashed. Mr Wilson will tell you of me and he will be good to you for the true J[---]ment of it sir by render me this favor [-]ill place me under a great obligation that will be long remembered and will paid_ Yours Truly William P. Wright ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F34_I5_p002.jpg) Hon Joseph Smith Na[--]oo Ill ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F34_I5_p003.jpg) Carthage July 24th 1842 Friend Smith Hon sir althou -gh I am not capable of counsellig you I wish to State that I have been in this place and have found by talking freely with inteligent men that it will be highly to the intrest of your Legion under present circumstances to cast your votes for W O Abernathy for sheriff he is up again. and for Sir as I feel ^ and will do all I can for your rights I would tell you as an honorable friend to vote for Duncan he is not against your Legion as as Stated any by your voting in your Legion for him you will get the Blessings of the [----] and they are the Salvation of the good faith and order of the county he will get it no mistakes yours Truly ville W.S. Wright write me at Jackson Ill ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F34_I5_p004.jpg) Genrl Joseph Smith Nauvoo Ill [following line written at 90 degree angle from original text, and along right edge of page] W.S. Wright ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F34_I6_p001.jpg) the Andover Ashtabula Co Ohio No 16 1842 Brother Joseph Smith Dear Sir It is with heartfelt grattitude to our heavenly Father that a priveledge is at this time is aloted me of addressing you through the medium of my pen & informing you of the prosperity of the cause of God which you have been the honored instrument in the Lords hand in bringing to light in These last days for the Salvation of the honest in heart by gathering to gather & being prepared to stand upon when the Savior shall appear in the clouds of heaven with power & great glory. Certain it is that truth will ere long Triumph over falshood bigot[-]ry & delusion for almost daily some in this part of the Lords vineyard are becomming convinced of the correctness of those principles which the great Jehov[--] has reveiled unto a falling & apostate world in this generation because it is in accord- i[-]nce with all the Dispensations heretofore given & of the great plan of Salvation which was devised in the cabinet of Eternal Wisdom before the foundation of the world for the final restoration of Israel & the establishment of the Kingdom of God to be thrown no more down for ever. During the past year there has been a number added to this bran- ch of the church & also others in verious places in this section of the country where the Elders of Israel have been faithful in proclaiming the everlasting Gospel [---] free & unmixed from the precepts & doctr- ins of men. Thus the honest in heart will be gathered out while the hypocrite & those who have drank deep into the sperit of aposticy & delu- s[-]n both Priest & people are bemoaning themselves because the Lord there is spoiling ^ pasture bringing to light the hidden things of dishonis ty & causing the light of revelation & the glorious Gospel to shine fourth amid the darkness which has prevaded the world of manakind for the last twelve hundred years & upward. And may the God of the saints be praised & adored because the day spring from on high has dawned upon a dark & benighted world & brought the principles of life & immortality ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F34_I6_p002.jpg) to light caused the Kingdom of God to grow & flourish its Judgs is bein restored as at the first & its counsellors as at the beginning. Before I close my communication I would say a word respecting the members of this branch of the church relitive to there situation temporaly. Generaly speking we are poor as to the things of this world but I hope that some are rich in faith & will become heirs of the Kingdom. Notwith-standing our poverty we are anxious to send up our [--]its to assist in accomplishg the great work of God in building the Temple according to revilation. I have therefore used my best endeavoures to gather what I could for this most glorious object As an opertunity is offereded us of sending by Br Russell. It is but a we had little that we shall be able to send at this time as ^ only a day or two notice that there would be an oppertunity of sending this faul. We shall calculate to send somthing more in the spring when Br Lyman Wight returns. I will give below a list of the articles sent & the togather with the nams of those who sent them & wish the worth amount placed to their credit to apply on there tithing. I Close by subcribing myself your brother in the bonds of the new & everlasting covenent Joseph Smith James M Adams Donors Names Articles Sent James M. Adams Cash ----------- $10.00 one Pair Shoes Seven yard Flanol one pair socks Paid to Lyman Wight ten Dollars David N. Parsons two yards and three fourths of fulled cloth two Pair Socks one Pair mittens David Holman twenty five Pounds Dried Aples ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F34_I6_p003.jpg) Names Articles Sent Samuel Arnold one Veal Skin two Sheep Skins one Pr Socks one Skein yarn Gamaliel R. Grover one Pr Boots John Riggs - one Pr Boots Benjamin Soles, Erie. Pa. Cash five Dollars James Van Natta Do Cash five Dollars Clarinda Gleason ---- one quilt to Plain W[--]ers Susan Holman - - - - - four 1/2 yrds muslin Susan Tyler one Pr Socks Sally Geer -------------- one Pr Socks Jonathan Willson one Pr mittens ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F34_I6_p004.jpg) Joseph Smith Nauvoo ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F35_I1_p001.jpg) Nauvoo November 26th 1842 Horace R. Hotchkiss Esqr Dr Sir- Yours of the 8th inst to S. Rigdon has been received and in consequence of his not knowing any thing concerning the matters therein mentioned nor being in any ways connected or interested in my affairs he of course has handed the letter to me which I shall proceed to answer. And Sir permit me to say on the subject of the deal between myself as Trustee in Trust for the Church of Latter Day Saints and you that I am as anxious as ever to have the contract continue good between us, and to meet the obligations specified in the contract. I am not, neither have I ever been wishful to shrink from it in any form whatever, but intend to make payments as fast as my circumstances will admit. But Sir, you are not unacquainted with the extreme hardness of the times, and the great scarcity of money, and which put it out of my power to meet all the payments as they fell due, and which has been the only cause of any failure on my part, and should you feel disposed not to press the payments but offer a lenity equivalent to the state of the times, then sir, I shall yet endeavor to make up the payments as fast as possible, and consider the contract still good between us. I would here say, that when I found it necessary to avail myself of the benifits of the Bankrupt Law I know not but that the Law required of me to include you amongst the list of my creditors, notwithstanding the nature of the contract. ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F35_I1_p002.jpg) between us, this explains the reason of my doing so. I have since learned from a decision of the Judge of the supreme court that it was not necessary, and that the Law has no jurisdiction over such a contract, consequently, as I have before stated I am disposed to hold to it, providing you will not press the payments. Under these circumstances I consider it unnecessary to give you the information required in your letter in regard to the number and kind of houses on the land &c. I shall expect to hear from you again soon. In regard to your having wrote to me some few weeks ago I will observe, that I have recieved no communication from you for some months back; if you wrote to me, the letter has been b[-]oke open and detained no doubt; as has been the case with a great quantity of letters from my friends of late and especially within the past three months. Few if any letters for me can get through the post Office in this place and more particularly letters containing money and matters of much importance. I am satisfied that [-] S. Rigdon and others connec -ted with him has been the means of doing incalculable injury not only to myself but to the citizens in general, and sir under such a state of things you will have some idea of the diffi -culties I have to encounter and the censure I have to bear through the unjust conduct of that man and others whom he permits to interfere with the post office business. Having said so much I must close for the present. You will hereby understand my feelings upon the ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F35_I1_p003.jpg) subject, and the reasons of the course I have hitherto pursued. With sentiments- of due respect I remain as ever Yours affectionately, Joseph Smith P.S. Should it suit you better I am ready on my part to renew the contract and would prefer it. J. S. ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F35_I1_p004.jpg) (Copy) Letter to H.R. Hotchkiss dated Novr 26th 1842 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F35_I2_p001.jpg) Nauvoo Decr 23rd 1842 R. M. Young, Esqr Dear Sir- I write to inform you that I am now prepared to accept Mr John C. Walsh's terms for the N.W. 8 - 6 N. 8 W. as stated in your last to me viz. $2500 the first payment of $500 shall be deposited as you shall direct which will be done as soon as you return an answer. The balance in yearly payments as stated in Mr Walsh's proposals. The price is certainly high but I have fortunately the means at command to meet the contract so that I care not much for the added to the price according to his first proposals $500 which he has to increase upon the price. I am disposed on all occasions to hold all contracts sacred; and, so I do [-]n this occasion and will give the gentleman his price as last stated although the times are hard and landed property of comparitively little value. If you will have the papers executed and forward them the earliest opportunity I will esteem it as a endeavor favor and will satisfy you for your kindness. Perhaps you will conclude to pay Mr Walsh the first $500 and direct me where to refund the money to you. I shall now consider the contract good and am preparing to commence improving the land as soon as possible. Let me have an answer as soon as convenient Yours very respectfully Joseph Smith by Wm Clayton his agent. ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F35_I2_p002.jpg) [no text] ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F35_I3_p001.jpg) City of Nauvoo Feby 9th 1843 Dear Sir I have this day received your favor of the 17th Ult, covering one from John C. Walsh and barely State in this that I shall despatch a messenger immediately to Quincey to deposit the $500 in the hands of Genl Leach according to your instructions; but seeing that I had little time to lose I concluded by to send this day the first mail to inform you of my intentions. My next in which I shall enclose Gen. Leaches receipt to gether with my obligations will be mailed at Quincy and may be expected three days after you receive this. I shall not be able to obtain George Millers name as security, he being at this time several hundred miles North of Nauvoo, and is not expected back untill spring. I can however obtain the signature of Mr Edward Hunter late from Chester Co. Penn. who owns about 20 thousand dollars worth of property in this vicinity and probably as much more in the East which I presume will be entirely satisfactory to Mr Walsh instead of Mr Miller, Judge Higbee's name will be on the obligations. When you receive this, you may expect the other three days later, all the difference will be the time required to go from here to Quincey & do the business Some time ago a Petition signed by the principal in habitants of this City, praying the Post master General to remove the present Nauvoo post master and apoint another in his stead was put into the hands of C. A. Warren Esqr of Quincey with a request that he would hand it to you about the time you left for Washington. We have not yet heard anything wether Mr. Warren handed it to you or neglected so to do, but we feel extrmely anxious to learn something on the subject as the Citizens generally are suffering severely from the impositions & dishonest conduct of ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F35_I3_p002.jpg) the Post master & those connected with the Post Office in this City. The petition was accompanied by some affidavits proving that letters had frequently been broken open money detained, and letters charged twice over &c &c at this office, the repeated occurrence of which cir[---] stances caused the people to be anxious for an im[-------] change It will be seen by the petition that I was nominated for the office, I can only say that if I receive the appointment, I shall do my utmost to give General satisfaction. Whoever may be appointed, it is necessary in my estimation to have it done as soon as circumstances will possibly admit. Accept Sir of my sincere acknowledgements for past favors which are not forgotten and accept of the best wishes and sincere thanks of Yours respy Joseph Smith by W. Clayton his Agent Hon. R.M. Young City of Washington ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F35_I4_p001.jpg) Nauvoo Jany 16th 1843 [illegible Line] [--] Sir/: I [----] sit down to inform you of our safe arrival home on tuesday last after a cold and troublesome journey of four days. We found our families well and cheerful. The news of our arrival was [----] generally known, and when it was under- stood that justice had once more triumphed over oppression, and the innocent been rescued from the power of mob[-]eracy gladness filled the hearts of the citizens of Nauvoo, and gratitude to those who had so nobly and manfully defended the cause of justice and innocence [---] universally manifest, and of course [-------] with [---] and felt like a free [----] of [----] Yesterday a letter was received by Sidney Rigdon E[--]. from John C. Bennett which was handed to me this A. M. from that letter it appears that Bennett was as Springfield a few days after we left there and that he is determined, if possible to keep up the persecution against me. I herewith transcribe a copy of his letter and shall rely upon your council in the event of any further attempt to oppress me and deprive me of liberty; but I am in hopes that God's [-]ord will not gratify the spirit of oppression and mobocracy so glaringly manifest in the conduct of John C. Bennett The following is a copy of his letter ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F35_I4_p002.jpg) " "Springfield Ill. Jan. 10 1842 " Mr Sidney Rigdon and Orson Pratt; Dear Friends, It is a long time since I have written you and I should now much desire to see you, but I leave to night for Missouri to meet the messenger charged with the arrest of Joseph Smith, Hyrum Smith, Lyman Wight and others for murder burglary, treason &c. &c. who will be demanded in a few days on new indictments, found by the grand jury of [-] called court, on the original evidences and in relation to which a no[--] Prosequi and [---] by the District Attorney. New proceedings have been gotten [---] the old charges - and no [---] [---] can [-]here save them. We shall by [---] Smiths on the Boggs case when we get him into Missouri. The war goes bravely on, and altho Smith thinks he is now safe - the enemy is near, even at the door. He has awoke the wrong passenger. The Governor will relinquish Joe up at once on the new requis[---]on there is but one opinion in the case, and that [--] demand predicated on the old charges, on the institution of new writs. He must go to Missouri, but he shall not be harmed if he is not guilty, but he is a murderer and must suffer the penalty of the law. Enough on this subject. ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F35_I4_p003.jpg) I hope that both of your kind and amiable families are well, and you will please to give them all my best respects. I hope to see you all soon. When the officer arrives I shall be near at hand. [--] shall see you all again. Please to write me at Independence immediately. Yours, respectfully John C. Bennett, P.S. Will Mr Rigdon please to hand. this letter to Mr Pratt after reading? J. C. B. " This is his letter verbatim at literations [--] the [--] [---]ing the designs of Bennett and very plainly manifest, and to see his rascallity you have only to read some articles from his pen published in the "Times and Seasons" about 2 years ago; on the subject of the Missouri affair. I shall be happy to hear from you on this subject as soon as convenient. Also if you have receive any communication from Washington. We are ready to execute the Mortgage at any time. Yours very respy Joseph Smith by W. Clayton agent P. S. I would just remark that I am not at all indebted to S. Rigdon for this letter but to Orson Pratt who after he had read it, immediately brought it ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F35_I4_p004.jpg) Copy of a letter to J. Butterfield Esqr dated Jan[-] 16 1843 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F35_I5_p001.jpg) [text is illegible along the right side due to paper damage] Copy Nauvoo June 14th 1843 J.J. Butterfield Esqr D. Sir: Yours of the 11th has come to hand this[---] and it unfortunately happens that Mr Joseph Smith is away [--] a visit to his f[page torn] the [---] and will probably be gone two weeks [----] satisfied he had for[----] our hope through the great press [----] has overwhelmed him of late and not having left any orders I am at a loss to know what to do. However, if you call at Nauvoo on [----] way to chicago. I think I can guarrantee to [illegible] great part of it ready for you and m[---] [illegible] at home by the time you culd get [illegible] im- possiblity of [---] it to you after [illegible] and would it not be best for you to call this way as [illegible] I have [illegible] but as I have already said should you conclude to come this way [---] try to have the money ready and whether he has got home [illegible] justified in paying it, knowing that that is [illegible] Hoping this will be satisfactory under existing circumstances I subscribe myself [---] sir Your obt servant, Wm Clayton Clerk for [-]. Smith ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F35_I5_p002.jpg) June [--]th 1840 Copy Sent to [line illegible] [--] [---]field Esqr [line illegible] [---]ngfield Ill. ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F36_I1_p001.jpg) [Two rips down either side of the page] [--]ate of [-------] [----] of [-]a[-] [-----] March 25 184[-] [-------] [--]s of [---] 21 [--------] eced, ar[--] [--]n [-------] I have to s[-----] you cl[------] aur a cannon [------] desire I [------]ad to hear that [----]am stuck to [----] t[-]ary your [-]an[---]t, and th[---] al[---]y you had forced w[---] the new[--] county of Marguette, yet still you [-] pa[-]ific mi[--] and off[-] clu[-]l remedy suc[--] to freedom and peace old county[-] and [--] [---] friends Respectfully yours A Jona[--] G[--] Joseph Smith C[---] P Five hunded cannons youshould have of I had them ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F36_I1_p002.jpg) March 25. 1843 J Smith.- [at a ninety degree angle in the center of the page] A Jonas Columbus [illegible text written upside down at the bottom] ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F36_I2_p001.jpg) Nauvoo April 1st 1843 Sirs/: Your letter of the 20th Ult. has been received and duly considered. In answer to which I have only to say that so far as I am concerned I have not any objections to your visiting Nauvoo. The citizens of this place are a free people, and as respects theatricals or any thing else not repugnant to good order and decency can act as they think proper I do not wish to restrain nor interfere with their liberties It will be seen by an ordinance of the City Council passed July 5th 1842 that full permission is granted "to public shows, theatricals or other public amusements of a moral character", but immoral & indecent exhibitions are strictly prohibited, as well as drunkenness. By the same ordinance the cost for license is left discretionary with the mayor, not however to exceed fifty dollars, and the Recorders fee for writing the same one dollar I have therefore no objections to your visiting our city, the people are all poor in consequence of persecution but that is a matter which you probably understand consequently will run your own risk as to obtaining much encouragement. Yours very respy Joseph Smith by Wm. Clayton Scribe ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F36_I2_p002.jpg) Copy of a letter To Lyman Powell Galena ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F36_I3_p001.jpg) April 2=th 1843 From Joseph H Tippets, Dear brother Joseph I am happy to emprove the presant oppertunity to en form you of my presant situati- -on I should bemore happy if I could enform you that I was pospering and doing well, but on the contrary I have to enform you that I have just had my house burned and everry thing I had in it, though my house and furniture was nothing verry Costly yet it was all I had which consisted of clothing beding house and furniture &C, all we saved, was what we had on our backs which was the poorest we had, to be turned out of dours my self and family in this cold and enclemont season of the year is truly trying endeed, it remin- -ded me of the words of the Saveiour, the foxes have houls and the burds of the are have nests but the Son of man hath not- where to lay his hed, but we are quite happily enter turned at presant, at my fatherenlaws share we are welcomly received, you I desire in this letter to give ^ a histary in general of my self, or in other words render an account of my self for a few years past, I suppose it has ben solong since you saw or heard of me you have all most or quite forgot you [---] new me but you will reccollect som few years a gone in when you ware living ^ Kurtland Ohio myself in company with brother John Tippets ware sent from the state of new yo[-] -rk on a mishon to missourie with money for the purpose of purchaseing lands for our brethren, we came to Kurtland where where agreable to counsyl given to us there we taried through the following winter and summer dureing which time I went to scool through the winter and dureing the summer worked Cons- -iderably on the house of the Lord, when in the fall we a gain persued our journey to missourie in fulfillment of our mishion on ariveing there we spent our little monies for lands to the ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F36_I3_p002.jpg) but ad vantage we new have, the next year my brother Alvah L Tippets came on with his family and my mother and also a sister of ours who had ben crazy for several years and remains [----], it became my duty to take care of my mother and sister who was crasy it being my mothers chance to live with me; she being old and considerable helpless and my sister being cra[-]y truly en[-]olved me in quite a task I settled in fore Collwell County a few miles from fair west where I went to work with great Courage to open a farm. supposing that when I got my self aholme and settle my family, I would goforth and preach the gospel, but behold and lo before I got fairly settled the enemy came upon me and drove me from my holme and expeled me from the state with thousands of others of the saints, this truly was a day of trial and a scene of suffering, but this I could have got along with & verry well had it not ben for my old mothers ^ Crazy sister who ware both almost helpless and a [---]deal of trouble, to be driven from my holme with the loss of all most all things under circumstances of this kind rendered it verry destres sing in deed, desstressing in deed, to youse an old expression I just esscaped with the skin of my teath or in other words I just made out to rais team and money a nough to bring us out of the state, after ariving in the state of illinois I wrented asmall peace of land a bout sixteen miles east of quincy near Henry Milliars farm where I taried two years dureing which time a stake was lade of an Henry Milliars farm, I then thought I would settle there as I was clean exhausted in propperty and tired of moving a bout, I a gain took courag bought me r apeace of land b^oke up about thirty acres acres bilt me a house &c, dureing which time I dreamed the follo- -ing little dream which is worthy of notice not feeling fairly satisfied with my situation, I fancied my self ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F36_I3_p003.jpg) in the Citty of Nauvoo I thought the temple was bilt which was some two or thee stories high I thought I went up into the seccond story where I saw David Patten and shook hands with him, and told him that I was glad to see him, while I was talking with him I thought president smith came down from an upper story on com- -ing in to the rom I shook hands with him and thought I wished to ask him the following question which was this whether it was as well to settle out in the stakes as it was to settle in Nauvoo, which he answered before I asked him in these words said he if we had not bilt this hou- -se and put that great hell when the top of it this would also been thrown down, this gave me to understand that all the other stakes would be thrown down, a short time after news came that all the stakes ware discontin- -ued excepting those in hacock county [----] territory. I thenw ent to work and be county Ja[-]ay teritory, [illegible deletion] I then went to work.. and setteled up my bisness and prepared for moving to hancock county this I effected with the loss of considera- propperty ble ^ and what was stil morre my wife was taken sick about this time and died and left me with two little chil- -dren this [illegible deletion] loss was more painful than all the other losses I ever met with in my life but she was a good woman and has gone to wrest, about a year a go I moved n into ha^cock County where I am now living a bout fore miles from Ramus and about five from Carthage here I have ben marred a gain and for the past year I have [----] on a farm with my fatherenlaw where I was living when my house took fire and burnt with all I had in it, I have a span of mars an oldd waggen and harness, I have two cows and perhaps sevnty-five or eighty bushels of corn, and about ten-bushels ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F36_I3_p004.jpg) of wheet and about twenty five or thurty bushels of the oats I have paid my tithing for ^ past year with an excep -ttion of a tenth of the corn, I have ben perticular in giving you a history of my concerns for the past and presant, and wish to ask your counsyl for the future if you can give me counsyl that will put me in the way of prosperity it will be received as a precious morcel and will make me happy endeed, I often think of the Choice blssingsthat ware pronounced uppon my hed buy father smith and when the enemy of my soul pores forth his floods of trouble uponme I am led to cry out when shall these things be fullfilled will you help me brother Joseph buy your counsyl and prayrs that I may over come, I am as ever your sincere friend Joseph H Tippets I shal be at the conferance, Joseph Smith ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F36_I4_p001.jpg) (NEW WhitNEy) Box 1 Folder 36 Witchus & Roads Le Dear Bro in Christ. May 6th 1842 I most cheerfully avail myself of the present opportunity to address you. I presume you will not be at all surprized to recieve a line from a stranger with whom you have never conferred or any business whatever. You have before learned through Bro J,,D,,Lee that there is an individual a friend to truth bearing my name. A Brother an Elder in the church which you under god, have been the favored Instrument in Raising up in these last days. I wrote to Bro Lee last winter while he was in Nauvoo and Requested him to Ask for me, the prayers, and Blessing of the prophet of the Lord. That I might also prosper in this land what time I am compelled to remain here. But that [torn page] may [illegible deletion] he [---] before me so that [torn page] may [illegible deletion] bring my matters to a close speed ly and requit myself honorably and honestly before god and all men, and without delay gather with the saints to the land of Zion, the Saints Inheritance where I may share in the Toils, and Sufferings, of my brethren. These things more must needs be so for I desire nothing else ^ than to be Sharer of their blessings. until I can come I can repair to the church the fountain of Justice Zion, I desire to be recognized by the authorities thereof as their brother, and Remembered in their supplications. As there are frequent calls for me to preach & sometimes administer in the ordinances I wish to have a Recommend. for information respecting that matter I refer them to Elders John,,D,Lee- [torn edge]amuel,,B,,Frost. And A,,O,, Smoot. Also Sister M,,J,, Smoot as she has been an inmate of our Cabin ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F36_I4_p002.jpg) A portion of the time since her arrival in this country. The reason I requested your prayers in my behalf, and blessing also is that I have full confidence in the fact of the great god having set to his hand again to recover the remnant of his long dispersed covenant people, and preperatory thereto, he has raised up a prophet to lead them. And anciently the prophets were heard and answered by Jehovah, & will a gain though the Devil Rage with tremendious fury. The old fellow cannot stand his ground against the Holy Priesthood, I have witnessed his di[- - -]y thanks be to god. I have great opposition by his engines. the sects do not fail to embrace every opportunity of forming alliances with his satanic Majesty. They have made friends with the old fellow that they may put down the truth. Yea they bawl a loud. Some [- -] [torn edge] and some an other. I will forb[- - -] I must hasten to a close the clock has some time rang the midnight alarm all are wrapped in [-]al[-]ing arms of repose. The Brethren and sisters start in the morning for Nauvoo and I am compelled to hury. I desire greatly to gather with the Lords people but am indebt, and the times are so extremely hard that I cannot collect to pay them, though I have large amounts due me and good property besides. Yet my creditors will neither take property, nor other [- - - -] notes for what I am due them. I am in a great strait how to act. I want your counsel. It does seem every obstacle is placed in my way. If you can possibly get time to write me a h[-] [torn edge] give me your advice, and if I am worthy ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F36_I5_p001.jpg) May 15/43 Bro Joseph, by request of a poor Brother, I Enclose two Dollars to go to the temple, on to the building of it, his Name is Andrew Mains, he requested me to send it to you in care of Bro Baum, Yours with respect, Elijah Malin Jr Pre J.Smith Brandywine Branch Chester Co [--] ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F36_I5_p002.jpg) Pres Joseph Smith Nauvoo [following 2 lines written at 90 degree angle along right edge of page] Elijah Malin Brandeywine Branch Chester Pa. ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F37_I1_p001.jpg) Copy Nauvoo June 16th 1840 Mr G.N. Morris Esqr Dr Sir: Since my interview with you at Carthage a few weeks have endeavoured to find the letter I spoke to you about but have been unsuccessful. I have found a minute of the propositions which I took at the time, And from that minute it appears that the S.N.4-6-8 is owned by the Meck[--]s the strengths of of Philladelphia and upon ^ which we have [----] or rather bargained the land to [---] & imigrants. Now Sir, if you can come to any [illegible]to what you would like to do in the case, I would be happy to receive a line, so the agency is in your hands. We are ready at any time to enter into a contract according to the terms mentioned in my last. We would also contract for the S.W. 84 11 8 of you will make known your terms, and we can comply with them. Please write us [illegible] on the subject. Yours respy Wm Clayton for Joseph Smith Quincy Adams Coy Ill. ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F37_I1_p002.jpg) [illegible] 18th 1843 copy letter to [--] Morris [--] Quincey Ill. ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F37_I2_p001.jpg) Monmouth July 21st 1843. Dear Sir A Mormon Elder is now at my house, and is anxious that you see a letter written by An Elder of your church when at Greenbush in Warren County, and sent to this office to be mailed and was mailed on the 18 Inst The postage was not paid, and I have forgotten to whom it was directed, but I believe one of it was directed to Maj'r ___ who is ^ a committee in Nauvoo. -- The letter (if you can see it) will tell you what the Hon Joseph P. Morgan should have said disrespectfully if you in Greenbush a few days since in presence of your Elder, I felt conf[hole in page] that in Mr Hogue would be at your place in a few days, and probably would try to pass as a friend, and as he did not appear to relish the mormons much when here a few days hi[hole in page] because he doubted w[hole in page] ought [hole] see t[hole] letter, here It is known to but a few ^ that a letter is sent to any person at Nauvoo giving such information. a[hole] I hope you will inquire for it and be succe[hole]l in finding it. Y[--] Servant Joseph Smith Es[hole] Nauvoo Daniel [-] H[---] ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F37_I2_p002.jpg) [following two lines written at a 90 degree angle on the left side of the page] Mormon writte July 21 (Daneil Mc Neil P.M. free Joseph Smith. first president] Mayor [--] Care of Sidney Ridgon Esq Nauvoo Illinois ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F37_I3_p001.jpg) Nashville September 1st 1843 Brother Joseph Smith sir I take this way of conveying my mind or wishes to you as a multiplisity of business hinders you from leaving me verbaly some time in the summer of 1841 I purchased a practi[-]nal seat in Nauvoo of Bro Brigham Young and got a deed from you and did not get it recorded immediately for I thought I was perfectly safe and knew no better untill I went to pay my taxes and was greatly disappointed to hear that an other man had a deed of my Lot and it was on record and I made you acquainted with the circumstance and you told Mr Claten to look me out another Lot that would suit me as well and Mr Claten cited me to a Lot where Mr Sidwell lives and I asked him a half acre in exchange for mine and herefused untill he could see you and I waited a while and went to him again and he said you gave him no satisfaction as you was huried with business and he told me to go to you myself and I accordingly did and you gave me no better satisfaction and now if I can get another Lot I would like to get it and build on it so as to move in to Nauvoo as soon as I can for I feel as if I lived on the half breed lands my I will tell you ^ reasons for neglecting to get my deed on record I joined the church of Latter day saints in U. Canada and was posessed of about 1500 dollars of money and property and was directed that the ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F37_I3_p002.jpg) order of the church was to consecrate the properties for the benefit of the church and the helping the poor to Zion and I partly bore the expense of twenty two or three persons from Canada to a Misouri starting in Febru[--]ry and traveling [-] in the spring season of the year and had roads and got to Dewitt when the trouble was there and from thence to far west though while at Dewitt I sent the remains of my money down the river for flour and we had to leave before it returned and when I got to Far West I found business frustrated in such a manner that every person had to look out for themselves and I went eight miles and south of far west ^ purchased an im[--]tenment on a piece of congress land and turned out my wagon and horses to the value of 200 dollars for my self and family was all sick with the Ague and Fever and was obliged to do so for the sake of the crops to subsist on and I thought I could purchase the land of Congress and I would have me a small house and I lost it and was oblige to mak me a wooden wagon to came to Illinois with and when I came to Nauvoo I thought I could not pay for a lot and support my family and I came over in Iowa and baught an 80 acres of half breed intrest and after I had baught I was at a conference when you compared us in Iowa to the rich man and in nauvoo to the poor man and the river to the gulf and I ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F37_I3_p003.jpg) was determined to stop there no longer than till of could get away and I went to Nauvoo and baught me that small Lot and I thought I would have built a house on it before now but I have met with several misfortunes Stephen H Burtes got in my debt 200 dollars and took the insolvent Oath and Nelson McKarty of Caharty got in my debt about 65 dollars and took the insolvent Oath which was 265 dollars besides other small sums and if I got a dollar I had so many ways for it that I neglected my deed In short I have worked hard and lived poor I and destitute and now ^ appeal to your honor to know if I must loose my lot also I truly remain your Obedient servent John Mills As a Witness to the above facts I site you to Elder John Taylor and family of Nauvoo ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F37_I3_p004.jpg) [the following two lines are written at a 90 degree angle beside text] [---] Mills Sep 1st 1843 To Mr Joseph Smith Senr of Nauvoo Illinois ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F38_I1_p001.jpg) Box 1 Folder 43 (New Whitney) Recorders Office Carthage Ill 8th March 1843 Sir On examining the Records I discovered this morning the Record of a Deed which may be of importance to you and the Citizens of Nauvoo It is a Deed executed by Hotchkiss and Gillet to Wm H Elliott, J Hitchcock & Smith Tuttle as Trustees for Sundry persons conveying to said Trustees all the Lands owned by them in Commerce and bought of Alex White & the Atchisons - The Deed is Dated 6th October 1836 and Bears Record 25 Nov 1836 - I have not yet discovered on Record any Deed or power of Attorney authorizing the said Hotchkiss and Gillet to convey the said Lands and am doubtful whether their Conveyance to you and your Brother [-] S Rigdon is valid I would recommend that y[hole in page] send some compitent persons to search the Recor[hole in page] and particular [torn edge] only the D[hole in page] Book [hole in page] And furthe that you make [hole in page] payment to said Hotchkiss & Gillett until such search of Record be made And would further reocmmend that you suffer to be sold for taxes and bid in all the Lots on said Land ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F38_I1_p002.jpg) and endeavour to obtain a tax title upon the Same- I find that the Deeds from Hotchkiss to you Were Recordds previous to my appointment and do not know whether due search of Record was then needed. You will please consider this Communication Confidential and it may be well not to have the matter known to the public at present C.Robison Recorder ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F38_I2_p001.jpg) Carthage Illinois 20th September 1843 Sir I expect to be at Nauvoo about the last of this month or first of October I am much in need of money to meet demands now due and I write to apprize you thereof in hopes that it may be in your power to give me Some assistance in time of need - Should it be convenient for you to pay One half the Amt due I will extend the time for the balance as long as I can without injury to myself Yours Respectfully C.Robison Genl Joseph Smith ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F38_I2_p002.jpg) Free C. Robison PM Carthage Genl Joseph Smith Nauvoo [the following two lines are written at 90 degree angle on right side of page] Robison Sep 20th 1843 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F38_I3_p001.jpg) Carthage Illinois 2" November 1843 Sir Your letter of the 31" Oct 1843 is Just Received I shall be glad to procure your Draft on the Bank of Rochester New York Ten or Twelve hundred Dollars payable in Rochester will suit me equally as well as the Cash in hand Your obt servt C.Robison Genl Joseph Smith ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F38_I3_p002.jpg) Genl Joseph Smith Nauvoo Care of Wm Clayton ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F38_I4_p001.jpg) Quincy Nov 20. 1843 Dear sir I have at the request of Mr Lawrence for made out a deed from them him to you ^ the S E 5-6 N 8W I have examined the title and it is all correct Lawrence has the [---] deed to my brother Robert R Williams and a deed from Mr Johnston as his executor to himself Mr Johnston is author =ized by my brothers will to convey the will in proper =ty recorded in this & Hancock counties you need have no apprehension concerning the regularity of the title from my brother is it is all right Very respectfully your obt servt Archivals Williams ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F38_I4_p002.jpg) General Joseph Smith Nauvoo Illinois ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F38_I5_p001.jpg) New York City Jan. 8th 1844 Please direct your letter to the corner of Beech & Hudson No 42 Dear Brother Joe At the beginning of a New Year, I take the liberty of addressing you for the purpose of learning how the good cause of Mormonism is flourishing in the west, - Excuse my presumption in writing so familiarly to so great a man- and lay it all to my zeal in the cause of religion - Be kind enough to let me know all the particulars about nauvoo _ _ I have some idea of settling their for the purpose of practicing medicine - If you think I can do well, please inform me as soon as possible, I remain. You most devoted friend and servant - Th. M. Foster P.S. you will oblige me very much by answering this immediatley -- Th. M. Foster ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F38_I5_p002.jpg) Rev. Joseph Smith Nauvoo Illinois ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F39_I1_p001.jpg) Philadelphia Jany 29th 1844 Mr Joseph Smith Dear Sir allow me to take the liberty of addressing you a letter at this time my object in doing so is to inquire [-]fter A Brother of mine, who left Kirtland, Ohio a[-]bot 18 months to 2 years a go to go to Nauvoo since then I hav not heard eny thing from him, Seeing a notice in the Noospaper Stating he did at that place I therefore wish you to wright me wethe you know him or not and wether he is a living or not and who his family are and wher I can reach them by a Letter I wish you all so to inform me where Mr. Thomas Carrico is he is all so one of your Members formerly of Beverly Massachusetts Mr. Otis Hobart was formely of Leicester Massachetts By doing So You will confer a heyhtey asteamed favour on the wrighter of this Letter Sir I am Yours P.S. you will pleas answer Very Respectfilly This as Soon as convenntily Edward Hobard EH No 5 Bank St ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F39_I1_p002.jpg) [following line written at 90 degree angle] Paid Mr, Joseph Smith Nauvoo S[---]le Illinois ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F39_I2_p001.jpg) [top of page is torn off and damaged; top lines are illegible] [illegible line] [--]easent wee had a Conferance when andrew Lo[---]onah was president of the Branch and some time about then i Joined the Odd fellows and he Wisperin this as an Evel thing through De[-]lings wee had Before he Did it in spite and set the greater part of the Branch aganst me his own famley Making a [---]joraty the Conferance Desided that if even iwent agane to the Lodge that i should be Considered Cut of and neither stand as an Elder nor a member of the Church this has been forgoten till now that wee held a conference to act upon Elder Hewey haveing Two wives witch his present wife Declard that he had but he says that he has not wee cannot made prove this posative the thing that her tell he had Just Whipt her when Elder Miller Came to us the Church Choose me to preside and would have no Denial neither will they yet and this his sent as apettiton for me to Remaine by the Church Elder Woodstock and Elder peck liekwise was present wee have had severl aded to the Church latley [erasure] i got the Cammelite Church for Elder Woodstock the house his large and wer had a good congregation and there his mutch good seed some in this plase if you do not feel it your Duty to act on this Case pease to hand it to the high counsel and please act upon as soon as possble for the sake of the Church in this Citty the al think the Desition of Lomorou[-] was unjoust Sister Jones past through this Citty and she was well and in good spirits Your friend & Brother as Ever Henr Bellarsde n ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F39_I2_p002.jpg) Revd Joseph Smith Noovoo Illinois ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F40_p001.jpg) New mountpleasent Jay County State of Indiana From Martin [-] Hannah Snider to David Evans We may suppose you have heard more from us then eve[-] aney body has seen from us however we Deeme our honour good as Just as, Some of our neighbours I have never Seen you as I know of But I mus Let you know that I have heard a great Deal of Good talk of you we once had heard that you was Ded and that all the Mormons was Driven out of the united States not ever Did we know any t Better till this Spring one of our neighbours Brough Some pamplits from Green County ohio and then we know Better we have made Some Calculation if Everything Comes good to us that we will move to the City of Nauvoo in the course of one or too years if we can sell our Land we will Come Sooner we also of you hear off some, Beeing not far from us Last winter preaching in Deerfield and we Send a few Lines to John Mock to Let the men know of us and Come in Our neighbour hood and preach to a heatherin nation But we soon heard that Mt. mock and the men was goon So we gave them out of Coming to us We Should Like verry well if Some of you would and Come out hear this faul, preach for Some of us poor Sinners that we mite hear some good in This wast wilderness ware in we Live at present we have had a Long and ard winter the people here have not got aney oats Sowed nor aney Corn ground plowd our wheat Crops Looks [-]rry Bad the trees in the woods Looks as if they had Been Burnt "leves with fire Last faul and Cant put out their ^ this Spring we Should Like to know if there is aney Land that we mite get to farme or if there is aney that we could Buy or enter near the City of Nau voo I shall go on to another pge ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F40_p002.jpg) My wife was Hannah Heston the Daughter of John Heston near hanover Zebulon Heston Lives near us widow Crozer and hir famely Lives with in one mile of us one of Henry Schooteys Sons Live Close to us by the name of harvey I am a Black Smith By my trade I Should Like to know if it woul Bee worth wile to Bring My tools along or if I mite Do Better at Some Other work. I wish for you or some one of that place to write me a Letter and Let us know of you and that part of the world what was Best for poor people to Do when they Come in a strang part of the world Send your ^letter By the mail and Direct it to Martin Snider New mount pleasent post office Jay County State of Indiana you must over Look my words for I have to Lay on my ^Back all this time that I have Been writing this Letter and all winter BeeSids with the rheumatis in one of my knees altho I am a good Deal Better at present then I have Been some time Back I Shall Close my Letter our well wishes to you all Both now and for ever Martin an Hannah Snider May the 12,, 1843 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F40_p003.jpg) Dear brother and Sister [tear in page] time is long Since i have seen or heard from yo I hope You are in good health and still living In the fear of the lord. we are a living In averry wild and wicked world and And no meeting. only methodis and Camelites and it is such poor satis faction To go to hear them preach I would rather Stay at home and my mind has bin some what entangeled with this worlds afai[-]s But I pray the lord will for give me for the mis Spent time If we had a knew where you and the rest of the Brothers And Sisters was we would a [-] made ing Sooner preparations for come ^ to youI want you and brother Jack fouts To come once more and preach the gospel to us Some of our neigh bours Is verry , anctious to hear a mormon preach I fee so desirous to come to [--]vo Nauvoo I hardly know how to Spend my time we would like our family to heve a better better bring ing up than we are able to give them here If we was able we would come this Fall but we cant come till we ca[-] Sell our land and then if the lord will help and assist us we will en davour to meat you all I Send my love to all the brothers and Sis ters In Nauvoo I hope that You will pray to god for [--] well fare and that wee may be faith ful to the lord I must come to a close Hannah Snider David & Mary evans ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F41_p001.jpg) Erastus Snow May 10th 1845 [following 3 lines written at a 90 degree angle in the center of page] Bishop Whitney & Miller Nauvoo Ill. ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F41_p002.jpg) St Louis May 10th 1845 Saturday Bishop Whitney & Miller Trustees &c Bro. Beck of this place who purchased a piece of a lot of you and sent up some kind of goods to you to the amount of about forty dolla[-] not long since by a Boat and he is now ready to pay the other eighty dollars half (The whole he said was to be $[-]0.00) in cash as soon as he received a title; says if you send the papers he will pay me the mony next week. Bro. Egan and Joseph Brotherton is of coming down here the first ^ the week by whom you can send to me the papers if you choose to do so and also give me directions if any you may wish to give relative to the disposition of the money and also the Tything which I may collect here I have received same and shall probably make up some seventyfive or a hundred dollars - Elder Hyde suggested befor I [--]ft Nauvoo to you might wish to purc [hole in page] goods of some kind here with the money Yours in haste Erastus Snow N.K. Whtiney Trustees [--] Geo. Miller ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F42_I1_p001.jpg) Jerome Illinois Hancock Co. Jan 20-14 President Brigham Young Dear sir as I have been Charged either directly with or indirectly of making use Tithing Money with ^ which no[-] six had been intrusted of will herein insert agreeably to your request a track statement of the matter, in the first place Br Laney & myself [illegible] ten dollars [illegible] dollars [the following eight lines are illegible due to paper damage] had considered [illegible] [------] which he [illegible] could perhaps [illegible] on his hands he thus [illegible] free will [illegible] sent one hundred dollars by one to be [illegible] is the comple at Nauvoo if [illegible] Martell for home when I got to Cinemastia I want an board [illegible] boat. [illegible] pect [illegible] dollars in one [illegible] and another [illegible] sale in [illegible] of the [illegible] for [illegible] board [illegible] ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F42_I1_p002.jpg) i Alexander Badlern then come to me & sad he was together with his family in a destitute & suffering condition & asked me if I had got any money. I told him I had some for the Temply & he wanted me to let him have ten dollars & accordingly I did and [erased] siaed he would make it all right when he got to Nauvoo. Just before I got to Quincy I mist [illegible line] ed the f[---] [illegible] [eight lines are illegible] & as for begging for the Temple I deny the Charge [-] if this is not satesfactory I [illegible] go back to [illegible] proof suffrendly to satisfy you before I will rest under and [illegible] to give one liberty [illegible] of some of the money again [illegible] ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F42_I1_p003.jpg) Please to send me a line by the bearer of this who your informant was (for I tetotaly deny the charge of begging for the temple or deny nothing else this is a true statement of the matter) also [erased words] whether this is satisfactory or not_____ Yours Respectfully, George Snow to President Young [illegible] City [illegible] ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F42_I1_p004.jpg) George Snow Jany 20- 1845 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F42_I2_p001.jpg) E. Southwich-- Driton [-]. Ally 1840 Ans 16 [the following six lines are written at a 90 degree angle in the center of the page] 183[---] Gen. Jospeh Smith Mayor of the City of Nauvoo Nauvoo Hancock co Ills- ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F42_I2_p002.jpg) Dixon, Lee Co. Ills. August 7th 1843. Gen. Joseph Smith My Dear Sir. I hope you have received my Communication for the Ward and [--]page sent you a few days since, as I deem its publication of consequence to me as it vindicates my character from the a[--]ersions of a man who if well known I should take no trouble to contradict, as I am satisfied no one who knows him will believe him. I refer to H.T. Wilson the Gentleman who lately arrested you. do I wish you to ^ me the favour to Send me by return of mail the result of the Election for member of Congress in the County of Hancock and also the result of said Election for Said Member of Congress in the precinct in which the City of Nauvoo is situated. I wish you also to send me by mail if you can procure current bills the sum of one hundred and fifty dollars. If you will send it to me within two or three weeks from this date I will ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F42_I2_p003.jpg) Endorse upon the note I hold against you the sum of two hundred and fifty dollars for and in consideration of receiving the said sum of one hundred and fifty dollars. I am in want of money at present to Enter Some land in this vicinity upon which I have valuable improvements. I have attended to the publication of all the facts necessary in from Flabeus Confus Case in the papers about in this vicinity. You have many friends in this town and vicinity. I hope you will not fail to send me the result of the Election as above requested and more particularly the money. Please accept the assurances of my warmest regard. E. Southwick ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F43_p001.jpg) Liverpool, Sep 26th 18[-]2 To the Authorities of the Church of Jesus Christ in Nauvoo-- Greeting, Whereas this is to certify that one John Wardrop, member of the Church, and passenger on board the Ship "Sydney", has unlawfully and unjustly taken with him [-] 3..15. the passage money for Sister Jean McDonald of Glasgow, who was not at present able to leave, and whose passage mo- ney we returned to the said John Wardrop, because we received the payment from him, he faithfully promising to transmit it to her - which he has not done, and we transmit this in formation in order that he may ,be dealt with, and that disonesty may not escape justice. Thomas Ward ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F43_p002.jpg) Thomas Ward. a Acqu^sation against John Wardrop. [following 3 lines written at 90 degree angle in the center of the page] To the Authorities of Church in Nauvoo by Elder Snider ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F44_I1_p001.jpg) [top of page has illustration of "Lith Edw. Autawa 3rd st near Market st."] St Louis Mo. March 7th 1843 Sir/ O.P. Rockwell was arrested in this city yesterday on the proclamation of Gov. Reynolds charged with shooting Ex Govr. Boggs of Jackson County in this state. he leaves tomorrow morning for Independence. he has sent for me to act for him as counsel and requests me to write to you in reference to the matter, and to say that he commits himself to you and his other friends as to what course he shall pursue. he is without means and relies wholly upon his people for assis= =tance. I have given him such advice as I deemed proper under the circumstances, and I doubt not if he has such a trial as our laws guarantee to every American Citizen but he will be safe knowing the prejudice which exists against him in that part of the State where he is going I deem= =ed it advisable to write to the Governor demanding the protection of the laws for Rockwell against personal violence and I trust & believe he will comply with ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F44_I1_p002.jpg) my request. If you Sanction the Course he has pursued with regard to employing me I will lose no time in making the necessary application for a change of trial from Jackson County to some other adjoining County in which he can expect to be more fairly and impartially tried. Genl. Bennett whom you know & of whom you have heard is I think the most important witness against him, but I think by proper exertions no apprehensions need be entertained from him, it is necessary that I should hear from you without delay and as you are not acquainted with me it is proper for me that I should refer you to Dr. Gallance who is here and with whom, Rockwell says, you & the rest of your brethern are acquainted. If employed for him I shall defend him to the best of my ability, fearlessly & indepen[-]tly in the mean time he desires to be remembered to you all & to assure you that he is in good spirits and has no fears, let what will happen, he sends his love to his family and bids them be of good cheer. I am Sir Very respectfully Your obt. Sevt. R.S. Blennerhassett Atty & Counsellor at Law &c ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F44_I2_p001.jpg) Rev. Bishop Whitney D Sir We have this day delivered to Mr Chas. Allen at the Stone House on the landing a lot of mds, viz. 1.775 "Ship." by Elder Orson Hyde of St. Louis for your address. as we were informed that the Articles just alluded to were to be used in the Construction of the Temple, we have in Consideration of this fact delivered the Same Free of any charge, and should you at any future time require any other ariticles for the Same purpose from St. Louis We shall feel pleasure in bringing them up on the charge terms as the present Crt. We feel that we are but perm[--] a duty which we owe to the residents of your City for the very liberal share of patronage Extended towards our Boat during the past year 1844. Yours very Truly Nauvoo (Sunday) J.H. Maitland 2 March /45 Clerk Shaw Boat 'Osprey' PS. It is our intention to now (the present year) under the Same arrangement as last Season, arriving at Nauvoo E[-]ey Sunday at 9 A.M & leaving for St Louis Every Tuesday at 8 A.M for St ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F44_I2_p002.jpg) Rev. Bishop Whitney Nauvoo, Illinois [sideways text:] J H. Maitland S.B Osprey Mch 2 1845 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F44_I3_p001.jpg) Nauvoo Augt 2nd 1845. W H. Egan Sir: We wish you to purchase the following articles for us in St. Louis. Viz: 1 Sheet of Lead 20 feet long by 20 inches wide. which you will find at Mr W. W. Thompson's on Front Street. at 5 ct Also 2 Bbls of Tar which you will get at some Grocery store. Also 1 Sheet of Copper 8 feet long by 14 inches wide and 1/4 inch thick. And oblige Everest & Rogers Your Mo. Obedt Sevt N.K. Whitney the nearest to the thickness of Coppr By your order is 1/8 of an inch and 5 feet Long But we can splice it to make the 8 feet and the cost would be 37 cents per pound Everist & Rodger ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F44_I3_p002.jpg) Mr Egan St Louis ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F44_I4_p001.jpg) Mr Joel Rice. Dr Sir: Please fill the following Bill of Iron and Steel for the bearer [--] who will pay you for the same and much oblige Your obdt Servt N.K. Whitney 2500 lbs 1 3/4 by 1/2 inch Waggon Tyre 150 ' 1/2 ' 1/2 " " " 33 feet Spring Steel 2 3/4 inch wide if to found in your place. P.S. I have received the Iron forwarded by you to M[-] Heywood and paid him for the same. I have no doubt he will notify you in proper season. N.K.W. Nauvoo Decr 23rd 1845 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F44_I4_p002.jpg) Mr Joel Rice Merchant Quincy Ills [on side:] Bill N.K. Whitney to Joel Rice Quincy ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F45_I1_p001.jpg) Carthage Illinois 20 August 1844 Dear Sir I hold two notes executed by Joseph Smith as Sole Trustee of the Church on which the payments have long since been due I am well aware of the difficulties to be encountered in raising money at this time; But suppose it may be in the power of the Trustees to pay me the small sum of two hundred Dollars in a few days. I want to raise money to pay my expenses to New Orleans and back . I wish to leave my wife in Louisiana to spend the winter And must have money to pay her expenses. I wish to ascertain soon as convenient what can be done in the premises. I am disposed to extend every indulgence my circumstances will permit. Mr Wm Clayton can explain to you the nature of our business transactions Your Obt Servt C.Robison N K Whitney Exp Trustee &c ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F45_I1_p002.jpg) Free C. Robison PM Carthage Ill N K Whitney Esq Nauvoo Ill ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F45_I1_p003.jpg) Carthage Ill 27th Oct 1844 Gentlemen I hope it will be in your power to Send me Some Money early in this week I am only waiting the reception of funds to enable me to start Southward and cannot go unless I can obtain Sufficient to repay my expenses Yours truly C.Robison ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F45_I1_p004.jpg) Messrs Whitney & Miller Trustees of the Church &c Nauvoo [following 2 lines written at 90 degree angle along right edge of page] C Robison Oct 27 184[-] ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F45_I1_p005.jpg) Carthage Illinois 27h August 1844 Dear Sir I wrote you a few lines last week per Mail to which I have not received a reply. I think it Posseble it may not have been Received in time to answer by last Sunday mail. If it has not been received please let me know; So that I may ascertain where it may have been misplaced __ If it has come to hands please answer by Wednesdays mail [--] Respectfully Your Obt Servt C Robison ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F45_I1_p006.jpg) N K Whitney Esq Nauvoo Ill [sideways text] C Robison Augt 24 44 Answered same date ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F45_I1_p007.jpg) Carthage Illinois 31st October 1844 Gentlemen I have Borrowed One Hundred Dollars to defray the expense of my trip Southward, upon a promise that the money would be refunded in a few days I have Drawn An Order on you in favour of my Brother Lewis Robison for that purpose which I doubt not you will be able to pay on Demand if not Sooner Your obt servt C. Robison N K Whitney George Miller Trustees of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F45_I1_p008.jpg) [sideways] C. Robison Oct. 31, 1844 concerning order for $100.-- N K Whitney & George Miller- Trustees JC Nauvoo ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F45_I1_p009.jpg) Carthage Illinois 31 August 1844 Dear Sir, In your Letter of Augt 27, 1844 you ask for information Concerning the Dealings between Joseph Smith as Trustee of the Church and myself The Two Notes are dated 22d October 1842 for $960 each. One is due 1st Sept 1842 On which there are endorsements to the Amount of Six hundred and fifty Dollars The Other Note is of $960 due 1 Sept 1842 and without endorsement For the Above mentioned notes I Executed a Bond under the Penalty of four thousand Dollars Conditioned that upon due payment of Such Notes I am Bound to make Execute and Deliver unto the said Joseph Smith as Sole Trustee in Trust for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints and to his Successeres in Office and assigns a good and Sufficient Warrantee Deed for SE.8.6 N. SW This Bond is duly Recorded in the Recorder's Office And Should you not be able to obtain the original you can have a properly Certified Copy from the Records The land is under improvement- I believe President Smith Sold a Lot on the South East Corner on Which there is a frame house- I Shall be pleased to learn what assistance you can render me- And when you can let me ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F45_I1_p010.jpg) have Some money on the Above rules I Shall want to pay Some $750. or therabouts in New York in or before the 1st January next for which I Shall be willing to pay the Usual Exchange I Doubt not that you will find it quite convenient to make Such arrangements as may be mutually beneficial You obt servt C. Robison N. K Whitney ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F45_I1_p011.jpg) Free CRobison PM Sept Carthage Ill 1 N K Whitney Esq Trustees &c Nauvoo Ill [following 2 lines are written at a 90 degree angle along the right edge of page] C. Robison Aug [-] 31 1844 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F45_I2_p001.jpg) Dixan May 6th 1844 Dr Sir The gray mare I bought of you strayd from me the night after I got home _ I have heard from her on her way back _ I suppose she has taken her course down the river & you will probably see her back to your city before the reception of this letter if she is not taken up on the road _ I wish should she return you [----] have the goodness to inform me as soon as convenient - I got home safe & found my family & friends well _ I gave your views of Gover =nment to Mr. Dixan he says he is well pleased with the doctrine therein contained & much obliged to you for the pamphlet Your boat is 1[-] miles below here but your men are loading a [---] boat here with corn - Our court is now in session your corn has not yet come on- your witnesses are here - Please make my con[---] [---] to Mrs Smith I [---] her [--]ll Mrs [page is torn across bottom making the last line unreadable] ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F45_I2_p002.jpg) Genl Joseph Smith Nauvoo Ill ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F46_I1_p001.jpg) $67.50 Brother Parley P. Pratt. On sight please pay to the order of David D. Yearsley sixty seven 50/100 dollars and charge the same to our account Nauvoo Friend as ever N. K. Whitney February 17th 1845 George Miller Trustees &c [written diagonally covering previous paragraph] Cancelled Cancelled Cancelled Dr Brother Pratt. We have been under the necessity of drawing a small draft on you in order to meet some engagements which seem to crowd on us at the present time. It was not our intentions to draw on you for any money untill the land contract is complied with, the particulars of which we wrote you in a former letter, but necessity urges us into this measure. We shall however write to brother Sanders of Wilmington requesting him to cash the draft, and if he is willing, to wait on us till he comes here in the spring, or, if he cash the draft to brother Yearsley and must have the money before he comes here to call on you and you would do it. We hope however the matter will be arranged without calling on you, as the land contract is a matter of importance, and considerable interest Yours in the bonds of truth Nauvoo N K Whitney February 17th 1845 George Miller Trustees in Trust ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F46_I1_p002.jpg) The within order was paid by Ellis M. Sanders as per D.D. Yearsleys receipts. The amount was created to said Sanders on his tithing May 4 1845 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F46_I1_p003.jpg) [sideways left] Trustees Order on P.P. Pratt [center] Cr. P.P. Pratt City of New York frm bro Yearsley ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F46_I2_p001.jpg) 1845 St Louis May 8th Dear Brothers Miller & Whitney I send these few lines to you by Bro Alsworth - requesting you to send me down a deed for the peice of Land which I agreed with you for when I was up at Conference it is a peice formerly ocupied by Bro. Pitt and turned over by him to the Temple committee -- the Price of it is 80 dollars - and I sent you up - goods (according to the Bill which I received of you) on the 11th of April by steamer - Osprey - which goods came to 40 doll 60cts and 25cts for hualing down to Boat - thus making - 40 doll 85cts leaving a Bal - of 39 doll 15 cts-- ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F46_I2_p002.jpg) Bro Snow requested me to write to you - requesting you to send down the above deed or title to him and I will pay over to him the Balance -- Bro snow told me that you could send it down by a sister Brotherton who has come up to spend a few days in Nauvoo. from yours Truly-- James Beck ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F46_I2_p003.jpg) to Bishops Miller & Whitney Nauvoo - City of Joseph per Bro. Elsworth [sideways] James Beck May 8 1845 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F46_I3_p001.jpg) St Louis June 16th 1845 Dear Bros Miller & Whitney - I am thinking about having a small house Built upon my lot which I recently purchased of you formerly belonging to Bro Pitt - I should like to have one Built upon the cheapest scale owing to my means being small - owing to the slackngs of Trade there is much broken Time so that I Can not save much - I send you Below the deminsons of the house I want Building -- 2 Rooms upon the ground floor Built in the plainest way without any Plastering but merely a coat of Lime wash- the Walls of Buick with one fire Place. two Windows - & 3 doors -- the outside walls measuring in length 28 ft and in width 14 ft one Room kitchin 16 ft by 14 ft and the other 12 by 14 -- [in center of page, rectangle drawn with dimensions listed] [along back wall] Back door 16 ft [along front wall] 12 ft window front door window [sideways] 14 ft 16 ft fire Place ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F46_I3_p002.jpg) you will Please let me know what a house of this kind can be put up for and wither a frame house could be put up any cheaper but I would prefer a brick one - if you will send me a few lines concerning the above I shall feel truly obliged to you from Yours Truly James Beck PS - Direct to me No 290 eighth 8th st Between Carr & Biddle sts --st Louis -- [pencil] $190, 38 cents ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F46_I3_p003.jpg) [--] Bishop Miller & Whitney City of Joseph Hancock County-Illinois [the following three lines are upside down on the right side of the page] 1.50 1. .50 [the following eleven lines are upside down on the left side of the page] 25 of stone John Pickles 9--1002 1-15- 1-8 2-02 -- $2.50 26 12 6 $2.62 2.42 2 4.84 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F46_I4_p001.jpg) Dear Bro Miller & Whitney I here with send you the articles contained in your Bill for the Temple - - and also the Bills for the Same the[-] are as good and as cheap as I Could get them - hoping the will meet your wishes - from yours Truly in the Bonds of Love Jos Beck No 290 - eighth st between Carr & Biddle Sts ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F46_I4_p002.jpg) Miller & Whitney Nauvoo Hancock County Illinois ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F46_I5_p001.jpg) Buffalo May 15 1845 Bro Whitney & Miller Sirs Br Redfield is now about to leave Buffalo for Nauvoo for the Purpose of conveying the amount of Tithing which he has colletted in the western Parts of the state of New york This is To certify that I have the utmost confidence in him as an agent and that he has Transacted the business in a fair and honorable manner and has a book containing an account of every of dollar of both Property & cash committed To his charge which book will be Presented for your inspection he has acted like a man of God so far and is worthy of Praise for his untiring exertions in Laying before the branches the necesity of Paying their Tithing and . . in gathering Tithing and so forth I am This morning To Leave Buffalo To go back To my Destrict written in haste I am as ever your brother in the bonds of the everlasting Covenants Priest William D. Pratt. Presiding High There is a number Brethren in my destrict who able have agreed To Pay Tithing in the f[-]ll To some consider amount and as Elder Redfield is acquainted with the circumstances of those who have and have not Paid Their Tithing he would be better Prepared To act as an agent in This Section Than any other Person in case you Should Se fit To Send an agent in The fall on This business W D. Pratt ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F46_I5_p002.jpg) To Whitney & Miller Nauvoo Hancock County Illinois [following 2 lines written at 90 degree angle along right edge of page] Mr D. Pratt May 15, 1845 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F46_I6_p001.jpg) Kalamazoo (Mich.) July 2nd 1845 To Bishops Whitney and Miller Trustees in trust of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Dear Brethren circumstances seem to render it necessary for me to write to you at this time conern- ing certain properties which has been donated here for the temple such as sheep wool cattle &c. Elder F. D. Richards wrote to Elder Crandall Dunn (who he left to take the superintendency of collecting together said properties) directing him by your authority to send them to Nauvoo under my care and superinten dence. What I wish to inform you is this at the time Elder Richards left here I expected to have started for Nauvoo the 1st of June last Brother Cramer was intending to take my family but he has been disappoin ted in receiving moneys which he expected and cannot go before the first of Sept, next consequently I have no means of getting there till that time I thought I would let you know the circumstances so that you might act accordingly, I think there is no mistake but we shall get away by the 10th of Sept, not [-] if no hindering providence intervenes. I regret that circumstances have prevented my return to the "City of Joseph" as soon as I expected and no doubt you will be disappoin ted in not receiving these donations in june if you wish ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F46_I6_p002.jpg) them brought up when brother Cramer comes if you will drop me a line I will act accordingly Br Cramer has ample room to carry the wool and boys enough to drive the stock. Wishing the saints great peace and prosperity and in hopes of Eternal life I subscribe myself your fr[-]ind and brother in the gospel of Christ E. M. Webb P S if you write direct to Kalamazoo, Michigan ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F46_I6_p003.jpg) [-] 10 N K Whitney or George Miller Nauvoo Ills [following 3 lines written at 90 degree angle along left edge of page] E. M. Webb July 2 - 45 Answered July 24.[-]5 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F47_I1_p001.jpg) Springfield Aug 17th 1845 George Miller & N K Whitney Trustees Dear Sirs The payments due me, from you as Trustees in Trust, I shall not call for until about the first of October next. Yours Respectfully L.B. Adams ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F47_I1_p002.jpg) L.B. Adams demand Oct 1st [following 3 lines written at 90 degree angle in center of page] George Miller Esq Nauvoo Illinois ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F47_I2_p001.jpg) To the Trustees, sirs I receivd your Letter on saturday that you sent by Bro Hill it being the first inteligence that I receivd that you had got the glass for the temple I am heartly sorry that I canot come up amediately to set them But there is a barier in the way that it is imposible for me to come short of two weeks, you give me one week in your letter of time & now I must bey the Lenity of one week more before that I can come then you may expect me to be there as soon as I can get there god being my helper for I shall start from here one week from next satturday if I can[-] get a Boat if not I shall come on the first pucket that comes to the foot of the rapids I shall do all I can to come before if posible I will inform you the reasion that I canot come now when I get there which I hope will be satisfactory to you Brother Beach will be with me if nothing happens & shall get evry thing in readiness so that when I get there to do the work as quick it as posible for if - is required I will work night & day to do it, Yours in haste Jesse Nichols St Louis Sept, 8th 1845 V. B. I shall be there for certain the time I herein without fail ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F47_I2_p002.jpg) Mr Wm Clayton or Bishop Whitney Nauvoo ill. in haste [following 2 lines written at 90 degree angle along right edge of page] Jesse Nichols Sep. 8 - 45 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F48_p001.jpg) [page is torn along the left edge, at the top in the middle, and down the right middle, obscuring much text] Phil [-] Aug 8th [--] [-]o the first presidency of [------] at Nauvoo This is to certify that [----]ing a vote was calld in a congre[----] of more than five hundred to ex[----] the[--] Desire that Elder Adams shou[--] turn to this city to preach who [----] therewas not a dissenting voice. For my own part I thi[--] it altogether advisable for him to return immediately for there is now a great excitement on the subject of of our [-]oly religion and a prospect of bringing scores into the kingdom B. Winchester ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F48_p002.jpg) To The First Presidency of the Church of Jesus Christ, of Latter day Saints in Nauvoo Ill [following 2 lines written at 90 degree angle along left edge of page; some text is obliterated] [-----]chester [-----] 18. 184[-] ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F49_I1_p001.jpg) Letter to P.P. Pratt May 26, 1845 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F49_I1_p002.jpg) [brackets and bracketed items were present in original] Nauvoo May 26, 1845 Dr Brother Pratt. A few of the Twelve and the Trustees have been in council together this morning in brother Millers upper room and we would we have concluded to ^ write to you giving you a short sketch of the prospect and situation of things as they now exist among us. Brother Samuel Brannan arrived here on friday last and imme- diately reported himself to us. We held a council on his case and called brothers Wm Smith and Wallace into the council. The whole matter was thoroughly investigated and the facts related by the brethren. On the whole we did not find matters in relation to brother Brannans conduct so bad as had been reported. The difficulty between him and brother Wallace was satisfactorally adjusted and inasmuch as the principal accuser is now dead we have con[clud]ed to let it rest and have restored brother Brannan to full fellowship and confidence. We shall publish a notice of his restoration and he will return with our good f[aith,] fellowship and be[st w]ishes for his future success and prosperity. We wish you to purchase the tract [of] land we wrote to you about some time since and pay for it and take a deed in the name of [t]he Trustees in Trust for we feel anxious to have that business settled and put to rights. We have today in relation to your proclamation that we approve of it and are pleased with it and also with the course you have invariably persued while in the East, it is always cheering to hear from you and to learn of your prosperity. We are aware of your position and your labors. You are remembered daily in our prayers and our anxiety is for your welfare and success in all your undertakings. is It ^ now court time with us and in consequence of some threats from some of the Ridgonites and others, several of the Twelve have to keep close within doors. The trial of the murderers is now in progress, but there is every reason to suppose they will be acquited, for it would be a new thing under the sun for Satans Kingdom to bring to justice a man who has murdered ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F49_I1_p003.jpg) a prophet of God. There are quite a number of the mobbers in Carthage well loaded down with side arms, bowie knives &c. but they offer no insults nor threats to the brethren. So far all is peace, and we are pretty well satisfied the mobs are frustrated in their plans, and either have not courage enough or are unable to raise an excitement sufficient to make a breeze. The temple is progressing rapidly and bids fair for being finished far sooner than was anticipated. The Capstone on the South East corner was laid with some pleasing cerimony by the twelve in presence of on Saturday last at 6 A.M. in presence of the Twelve except Wm Smith and the many of the authorities besides a large congregation of the Saints. The walls are finished and a large portion of the timber work is already on the walls. The carpenters are very busy raising the balance and [an]y thing pertaining to it is far under way. We have purchased about $3000 worth [of] timbers which will be nearly enough[.] Brother Parker has arrived this morning with a raft of [joi]sts and square tim[bers] and the balance of the lumber wa[nt]ing is already contracted for and is expected within 8 or ten d[a]ys. The Trustees have purchased within a few weeks about [28]0 barrels of flour and have now enough on hand to last till fall, and although there will be a great amount of means yet to [ga]in to purchase other [n]ecessaries to finish the Temple, we have no fears but every thing will come along as fast as we want it for we know the Lord is with us and the work will be accomplished. The brethren are very busy also on the Nauvoo House and the people seem resolved to have it up this summer if possible. Great peace and union prevails among the saints, and we have daily new cause for gratitude to our Heavenly Father for his kindness to this people. The building we commenced for an arsenal, but which we now design for an Academy in consequence of the Legion being broken up is far under way. They are working on the it upper story and ^ will soon be enclosed. ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F49_I1_p004.jpg) Brother Wm Smiths wife died last thursday evening and was put in the tomb of Joseph on Saturday at 10 A. M. We held a meeting at the stand but we could not be with him on account of exposing ourselves to arrest by the enemy. Brother Badlam is here to ask council for himself. We have instructed him to go to New York and go to work with his hands and take care of his family but not to go as an Elder to preach nor as a president of the seventies, but as a private member to labor for his families comfort as long as he has a mind to, or till further orders and when he wants to return with his family to Nauvoo, we have told him to do so. He will of course be under your direction and you can counsel him from time to time as you have a mind to. We would say further in regard to the deed for the land you purchase, it must be made to run to "[Ne]wel K. Whitney and George Miller as Trustees in Trust for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, their successors in of[f]ice and assigns." The considerations [for of] it be as follows. "For [an]d in consideration of the love and [g]ood will they (if he has a [wife]) bear to the church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints of wh[ic]h the said Newel K. in trust Whitney and George Miller are Trustees [^a]nd also for and in consideration of [th]e sum of one dollar [to] them in hand paid the receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged &c." Sister Pratt will write to you concerning your private or family matters. They are all well and in good spirits. Brother Wm Smith requested the Twelve to ordain him a patriarch and we did same in our service on Saturday last. We are happy to say that the Twelve are all well except Dr. Richards whose health is but poor. Our families are generally well and there is but little sickness in the City. We conclude this communication by praying our heavenly to help you with all the desires of your heart, and to preserve you and prosper all your works and may his spirit abide with you and comfort you forever is the unceasing prayers of your brethren in the bonds of truth. Done by advice of the quorum of the Twelve B. Young Pres. ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F49_I1_p005.jpg) Nauvoo May 26 - 1845 Dr Brother Pratt, A few of the Twelve and the Trustees have been in council together this morning in brother Millers upper room and we would we have concluded to ^ write to you giving you a short sketch of the prospect and situation of things as they now exist among us, Brother Samuel Brannon arrived here on friday last and imme- =diately reported himself to us. We held a council on his case and called brothers Wm Smith and Wallace into the council. The whole matter was thoroughly investigated, and the facts related by the brethren. On the whole we [rip in page] not find matters in relation to brother Brannons conduct so bad as [---] been reported. The diffic[-]lty between him and brother Wallace [---] satisfactorily adjusted, a[--] inasmuch as the Principal accuser [--] now dead we have cou[----]led to let it rest and have restored brother Brannon to fu[--] fellowship and confidence We shall publish n[-]tice of this restorati[--] and he will return [illegible words; hole in page] fellowship and for his future sucess and prosp[--]rity We wish you to purchase the trad[--] land we wrote to you about somet[-]me since and pay fo[rip in page] and take a deed in the name of [---] Trustees in Christ, [illegible] feel anxious to leave that bu[---]ess settled and put right. We have to[-]ay in relation to you proclamation that now approve of it and are pleased with it and also with the course you have invariably pursued while in the East, It is always cheering to us to hear from you, and to learn of your prosperity. We are aware of your position and your labors. You are remembered daily in our prayers and our anxiety is for your welfare and success in all your undertakings. is It ^ now Court time with us and in consequence of some threats from some of the Rigdonites and others, several of the Twelve have to keep close within doors. The trial of the murderers is now in progress, b[--] there is every reason to suppose they will be acquited, for it would be a new thing under the [----] for Satans Kingdom to bring to justice a man who has murdered ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F49_I1_p006.jpg) [page has tears and holes where the folds of the page have worn away thus eliminating some text] a prophet of God. There are quite a number of the mobcrats in Carthage well loaded down with side arms, bowie knives &c but they offer no insults nor threats to the brethren. So far all is peace, and we are pretty well satisfied the mobs are frustrated, in their plans, and either have not courage enough or are unable to raise an excitement sufficient to make a haze. The Temple is progressing rapidly and bids fa[--] for being finished far sooner than was anticipated the Capstone on the South East corner was laid with some pleasing ceremony by the Twelve in presence of ^ on Saturday last at 6 A.M. in presence of the Twelve except W Smith and the many of the authorities beside [tear in page] large congregation of the Saints. The walls are finished and a large [tear in page]ortion of the timber work is already o[tear in page] the walls. The Carpe[tear in page]rs are very busy [illegible] the balance and [hole in page] thing pertaining U[tear in page][--]s far under way. The house purch[--]ed about $3000. worth [tear in page] Lumber which will be nearly enou[hole in page] Brother Parker has a[tear in page]rived this morning with a raft of [hole in page] and square len[------] [illegbile] the lumber wa[hole in page]ng is already contra[hole in page]d for and is expected to be here ^within 8 or ten [hole in page]ys. The Trustees have [tear i npage]urchased within a few weeks about [hole in page] about [hole in page] barrels of flour and have now enough in hand to last till fall, and although ther[-] will be a great amoun[-] of means yet to [tear in page]ise to purchase other necassies to finish the Temple, we have no fears but every thi[tear in page] will come along as fast as we want it, for we know that [-]od is with us, and the work will be accomplished. The brethren are very busy also on the Nauvoo House and the people seem resolved to have it up this season if possible Great peace and union prevails among the saints, and we have daily new cause for gratitude to our heavenly father for his kindness to this people. The building we commenced for an arsenal but which we now design for an Academy in consequence of the Legion being broken up is far under way. They are working on the it upper story and ^ will soon be enstoned ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F49_I1_p007.jpg) [tears and holes where the folded page was worn have eliminated some of the text] Brother Wm Smiths wife died last thursday evening and was put in the tomb of Joseph on Saturday at 1[-] A. M. He held a meeting at the stand but we could not be with him on account of exposing ourselves to arrest - by the enemy. Brother B[-]dl[-]m is here to ask council for himself. We have instructed him to go to New York and go to work with his hands and take care of his family, but not to go as an Elder to preach nor as a president of the seventies, but as a private member to labor for his families comfort as long as he has a mind to, or till further orders and when he wants to return with hi[-] family to Nauvoo, we have told him to do so, He will of co[-]rse be under your directio[-] [-]you can council him from time to time as [---] have a mind to. We would say [-]urther in regards to the[-]eed for the land you purchase, it mig[-]t be made to run to [--]wel K. Whitney and George Miller as Tr[-]stees in Trust for the [--]urch of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Sai[-]ts their successors wi[--] [---] and assigns The consideration [hole in page] be as follows. "fo[hole in page] in consideration of the love and goo[-] will [---]y (if he [---] [hole in page] ) bear to the church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints of wh[document torn]h he paid Newel K. [--] [-]rust Whitney and Geor[-]e Miller are Trustee[-] [hole in page] also for and in consideration of [--]e sum of one dollar [hole in page] these in [-]and paid the receipt wher[---] is hereby aknowle[-]ged &c." Sister Prat[hole in page] will write to you concerning your private or family matter[-]. They are all well and in good spirits. Brother Wm Smith requested the Twelve to ordain him a patriarch and we did so in our council on saturday last. We are happy to say that the Twelve are all well except Dr Richards whose health is but poor. Our families are generally well and there is but little sickness in the City. We conclude this communication by praying our heavenly to bless you with all the desires of your heart, and to preserve you and prosper all your works and may his spirit abide with you, and co[-]fort you forever is the [---]ceasing prayers of your brethren in the bonds of truth Done by [---]ice of the p[---] of the Twelve B Young Prest ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F49_I1_p008.jpg) Copy Letter to P.P. Pratt May 26 1845 ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F49_I2_p001.jpg) Nauvoo Feby 17th 1845 Dr Brother Sanders. We have this morning drawn a draught on brother P. P. Pratt of New York in favor of the bearer brother David D. Yearsley for the sum of sixty seven 50/100 dollars, but as brother Yearsleys business lays in Philladelphia and he does not want to go to New York we have concluded to request you to do us the favor of cashing the draught on sight which, if you can do it, will be an accommodation to us. We would be still better pleased if brother Yearsley can have the amount without calling on brother Pratt inasmuch as we have already made other arrangements to dispose of the money in his hands If you can let him have the money and wait for it untill you come in the spring we will make it all right. when we see you. Or, if you cannot consistently do it yourself, if you would oblige us by calling on brother Hall or some other good brother who will let brother Yearsley have the amount and wait on us till you, or they come to Nauvoo we will make it all right with you. If it cannot be done without calling on brother Parley please let brother Yearsley have the money, and present the draught to brother Pratt and he will refund it to you on sight. In the mean time we remain, as ever, Yours in the bonds of truth Brigham Young Heber C. Kimball N. K. Whitney George Miller Trust[-] &c ----- new page (VMSS76_S1_SS2_B1_F49_I2_p002.jpg) [the following four lines are written at a ninety degree angle on the left side of the page] B. Young & others to E. M. Sanders July 14, 1845 [the following line is in the center of the page] Bro. Ellis M Sanders