| 454 be carried out in the scattered condition of the church, and that as far as we can approximate to that law, is upon the principle of freewill offering, for the practical purposes indicated by that law.
"Resolved that the bishops, in connection with the ministry of the church, should travel and preach the law of tithing.
"Resolved that we do most earnestly entreat all the saints remember, that all their 'surplus property' is the Lord's, and that it is needed for the support of the poor of his people, and the families of the elders whose time is engaged in the ministry.
"By order of council. JOSEPH SMITH, President"
-The Saints' Herald, vol. 10, pp. 158, 159.
A conference was held at Merthyr-Tydfil, Wales, October 28, 29, 1866. Elders T. E. Jenkins and J. D. Jones presided, Nicholas Grigg was clerk. The conference was attended by one seventy, thirty-five elders, and several of the lesser or Aaronic priesthood. The following resolutions were passed and reports presented:-
"Resolved that we uphold and sustain in righteousness, by our faith and prayers, Joseph, son of Joseph Smith the Martyr, as Prophet, Seer, and Revelator of the Church of Jesus Christ, including all quorums in their proper places, as the law directs.
"Resolved that we uphold and sustain in righteousness, by our faith and prayers, Elders Thomas E. Jenkins and John D. Jones as laborers in the principality of Wales.
"Resolved that any officer or member found advocating or contending for polygamy as a divine institution, either in public or private, be excommunicated, unless a spirit of true repentance be manifested to the satisfaction of the church.
"Resolved that the second Sunday of December next be set apart for fasting and prayer for the prosperity of the work of God in this land. (Let all the saints strive to have the true desire in their hearts, so that it may not be in vain.) . .
"Resolved that the principality of Wales be divided into three districts, and that the elders of each district meet in a
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