| 172 on account of his being the first elder that ever sounded to us the words of eternal truth. We claim as our father in the gospel, and when we contemplate his many labors, his perseverence [perseverance] in the cause of truth; the bold unwavering course that he has taken, and the great work that he has accomplished, we feel proud of our parentage. Great indeed are the labors that he has performed, and now that he has returned, (after his many labors and perils) to the land of Zion, and to the bosom of his friends, we bid him God speed, we hope that he may be enabled to enjoy himself in peace among the saints, and that the blessings of Israel's God may rest upon him and his family.
Immersion.-The Mormons had another baptismal ceremony at the Railway on Monday evening, when twenty-five new members were added to their fold. This sect is increasing very rapidly in this vicinity, under the zealous activity and enthusiastic preaching of their 'great gun,' Elder Adams.-Boston Daily Bee.
History of Joseph Smith.
Continued.
During the conference which continued three days, the utmost harmony prevailed, and all things were settled satisfactory to all present, and a desire was manifested by all the saints to go forward and labor with all their powers to spread the great and glorious principles of truth, which had been revealed by our heavenly Father. A number were baptized during the conference and the work of the Lord spread and prevailed. At this time a great desire was manifested by several of the elders respecting the remnants of the house of Joseph, the Lamanites, residing in the west; knowing that the purposes of God were great to that people, and hoping that the time had come when the promises of the Almighty, in regard to that people were about to be accomplished, and that they would receive the gospel and enjoy its blessings. The desire being so great, that it was agreed upon we should enquire [inquire] of the Lord respecting the propriety of sending some of the elders among them, which we accordingly did, and received the following revelation.
Revelation to Parley P. Pratt and Ziba Peterson, given October, 1830.
And now concerning my servant Parley P. Pratt, behold I say unto him, that as I live I will that he shall declare my gospel and learn of me, and be meek and lowly of heart; and that which I have appointed unto him, is , that he shall go with my servants Oliver Cowdery, and Peter Whitmer, jr. into the wilderness, among the Lamanites; and Ziba Peterson, also, shall go with them, and I myself will go with them and be in their midst: and I am their Advocate with the Father, and nothing shall prevail. And they shall give heed to that which is written and pretend to no other revelation, and they shall pray always that I may unfold unto them to their understanding; and they shall give heed unto these words and trifle not, and I will bless them: Amen.
Immediately on receiving this revelation, preparations were made for the journey of the brethren therein designated, to the borders of the Lamanites, and a copy of the revelation was given them. Having got ready for their journey, they bade adieu to their brethren and friends, and commenced their journey, preaching by the way, and leaving a sealing testimony behind them, lifting up their voice like a trump in the different villages through which they passed. They continued their journey until they come to Kirtland, Ohio, where they tarried some time, there being quite a number in that place who believed their testimony, and came forward and obeyed the gospel. Among the number was Elder Sidney S. Rigdon, and a large portion of the church over which he presided.
As there has been a great rumor, and many false statements have been given to the world respecting Elder Rigdon's connection with the Church of Jesus Christ, it is necessary that a correct account of the same be given, so that the public mind may be disabused on the subject. I shall therefore proceed to give a brief history of his life down, from authentic sources, as also an account of his connection with the Church of Christ.
From the Courier de la Martinique, of Feb. 14, 1843.
More Particulars of the Earthquake at Gaudalope [Guadeloupe].
My pen trembles-my thoughts are confounded-I am thunderstruck!-I know not where to commence the recital of this overwhelming calamity. Eight of February!-O day forever celebrated in the annals of humanity!-Day forever execrated!-Day that will live in the memory of man as one of those that witnessed the accomplishment of one of the most dreadful decrees of Providence!
It was on the 8th of February, at 35 minutes past 10 o'clock in the morning, that a violent and protracted shock of an earthquake was felt at St. Pierre. I cannot tell you the terror that seized on the inhabitants. When recovered from this fear, the thought immediately turned on the fate of Fort Royal. With what anxiety they were expecting the boat that would bring to us the news of the destruction of our capital.
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