| 305 the caution against 'Free people of color' settling in Missouri, was sufficient to silence the fears of every sober mind, yet it was all in vain; the hour of trial must come: and. notwithstanding the Constitution of Missouri, as published in the same paper, says:-
"'Article 4. That all men have a natural and indefeasible right to worship Almighty God according to the dictates of their own consciences; and that no man can be compelled to erect, support, or attend any place of worship, or to maintain any minister of the gospel or teacher of religion; that no human authority can control or interfere with the rights of conscience; that no person can ever be hurt, molested, or restrained in his religious professions or sentiments, if he do not disturb others in their religious worship.
"'5. That no person, on account of his religious opinions, can be rendered ineligible to any office of trust or profit under this State; that no preference can ever be given by law to any sect or mode of worship,' yet, because the saints believed and taught differently from their neighbors, and according to the laws of heaven, in spiritual things, Satan said, 'Let there be a mob,' and a mob there was, and they drew up and published a manifesto, which will appear in its place."-Times and Seasons, vol. 6, p. 816.
The reader may understand the attitude of the church in Missouri regarding morals and religion, policy and politics, by referring to an epistle published in the July number of the Evening and Morning Star, entitled, "The elders stationed in Zion to the churches abroad, in love; greeting." 4 By this it will be seen that while they
4 Dear Brethren:-One year having passed since we addressed the churches abroad on the situation of Zion and the state of the gathering it seems to be our duty to again address the saints on the same subjects. Although you frequently learn through the medium of the Star our situation and progress, yet we indulge a hope that a circular from us particularly setting these things forth at this time, will be received by you in fellowship.
We have abundant reason to thank the Lord for his goodness and mercy manifested unto us since we were planted in this land.
With the exception of the winter season, the gathering has continued slowly. At present we have not the exact number of the disciples, but suppose that there are near seven hundred. Include these, with their
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