RLDS Church History Context

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Source: Church History Vol. 3 Chapter 35 Page: 690 (~1872)

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690 "We do not favor the admission of Utah into the union of States, with a constitution favoring or permitting the practice of polygamy; nor would we consent to such a compromise as would, by concession, treat with polygamy as existing as a religious tenet belonging of right to original Mormonism, and we would be very much inclined to object to any compromise recognizing it by any means as a religious tenet. In all this, however, we can see no warrant for supposing that any faction, outgrowth, split off, or secession is adding to its own strength by feeding upon the weaknesses, follies, or even vices of Brigham Young and others.

"We have noticed with some degree of curiosity, and some regret, the course pursued by what is called the Reform or Liberal Party, in Salt Lake City, as appears from the Salt Lake Tribune. When this journal first set out there was a feeling humanity discoverable in its editorials and leading articles, that indicated that the course pursued was rather forced upon the men sustaining it than otherwise; but whether the change in its editorial management has changed the forecast of its mission, or destiny itself has shaped its ends, there is a wide difference in the animus of its leaders now and then.

"It has grown bitter, harsh, and acrimonious; and except for now and then a saving clause, it might be inferred that those who were instrumental in originating and continuing the scheme of its publication, had either sold out their entire interest in it as a financial instrument and a social reform, or had forgotten that they ever held a tie in common with those against whom their invectives are now hurled. Plain statements of facts are sometimes necessary, both in exposing wickedness and wrong, and in defending innocence and right; but to state facts in a spirit of persecution and hate, is too apt to leave untold whatever of good might by candor be found for those of whom those facts might be stated.

"The plain statement that Brigham Young is responsible for much of the evil and wrong the people of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints have suffered, may be and

(page 690)

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