RLDS Church History Search

Chapter Context

RLDS History Context Results

Source: Church History Vol. 2 Chapter 31 Page: 713 (~1844)

Read Previous Page / Next Page

713 "It is not inconsistent with this declaration to say, that I have viewed with a lively interest, the progress of the Latter Day Saints; that I have sympathized in their sufferings under injustice, as it appeared to me, which has been inflicted upon them; and that I think, in common with all other religious communities, they ought to enjoy the security and the protection of the Constitution and the laws.

"I am, with great respect, your friend and obedient servant,

"H. CLAY.

"Joseph Smith, Esq."

-Times and Seasons, vol. 5, p. 544.

This appears to us a frank and manly letter and all that should have been expected of a man situated as Mr. Clay was.

Joseph, however, being of aggressive and decisive nature, and always ready himself to give an opinion on questions at issue, was not pleased with Mr. Clay's conservative answer.

He took the letter under consideration for nearly six months, and finally, on May 13, 1844, made a lengthy reply, in which his views were forcibly expressed. (See Times and Seasons, vol. 5, pp. 544-548.)

On January 29, 1844, a political meeting was held in Nauvoo to take into consideration the proper course to pursue in the approaching presidential campaign.

The trust of the saints had so often been betrayed by political leaders that confidence in them was almost entirely gone. They could not with confidence support either of the political parties.

Upon motion of Willard Richards the meeting resolved to put out an independent ticket, and that Joseph Smith should be their candidate for President.

Joseph, soon after, published a paper expressive of his views on the "government and policy of these United States":-

"GENERAL SMITH'S VIEWS ON THE GOVERNMENT AND

POLICY OF THE UNITED STATES.

"Born in a land of liberty, and breathing an air uncorrupted with the sirocco of barbarous climes, I ever feel a

(page 713)

Read Previous Page / Next Page

Amazing Testimony: When a NON-Christian finds the Book of Mormon..

RLDS Church History Search