| 275 counter to the opinions of many people; but believing that 'there is a destiny which shapes our ends,' I am contented to let those who are astonished and opposed to such a measure, stand the test of time and an opportunity for reflection, satisfied that investigation will result in my favor.
"To those familiar with the books upon which our faith is founded, the Bible being the groundwork, I have no apologies to offer; and to those not familiar with them, and to those who do not believe them, none is due.
"I know that many stories are now being circulated in reference to what will be the result of the step I have taken. I know that many believe that I will emigrate to Salt Lake. To those who know me, it is needless for me to say that I am not going to do any such thing while the doctrine of polygamy and disobedience to the laws are countenanced there. To those who do not know me personally, and to whom my principles are unknown, I must say, withhold your censure until such time as I shall, by some flagrant act of disobedience to the law of the land, or some striking breach of morality, deserve the just indignation of society. When I do either one or the other, I am ready for the opening of the vial of wrath of outraged society, and shall cheerfully receive the condemnation I shall merit.
"Numbers of the readers of the Democratic Press know me personally, and have been warm friends to me; they know my sentiments in regard to those obnoxious features in Utah Mormonism, and I trust in their knowledge of me as a pledge to them of what my future actions shall be.
"Religious toleration is one of the principles of our government, and so long as any denomination shall keep within the pale of the law, so long is it entitled to the consideration and protection of the government; but when those bonds are exceeded, the claim is forfeited, and society ought to ignore it, and the law proclaim against it.
"A man is known by his acts. I have been judged heretofore by mine, and am willing still to be so judged, asking all to do so fairly and impartially, laying their prejudices aside, relying not upon rumor for their knowledge, but investigating for themselves.
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