| 556 out curses or railery at any man because he saw fit to differ in religious matters. Shame on the principle-shame on the man or set of men who show themselves so degraded and miserably corrupt.
The last night of our stay at Dixon, I had the privilege of speaking on the principles of my religion to a number of individuals, in a kind of argument with two men; and, sir, although it is near four years since I have made a practice of preaching, it felt sweet as ever. Truth, to an honest heart is sweet; but to a wicked man is like a piercing sword, as was manifest on that occasion, for although the principles of the gospel were laid down so plain and clear that it was impossible to misunderstand, yet the opposing party repeatedly misconstrued my language, and even his own accessions.
I cannot persuade myself that the prejudice referred to above is a general thing; there are many honorable exceptions, and I presume if the Mormons had signified their intentions of supporting the Democratic candidate for the presidency at the ensuing election instead of nominating an independent candidate of their own choice, their prejudice would not have been so great at the trial of Reynolds & Wilson, and perhaps Gen. Smith would have obtained a judgment somewhat equivalent to the injuries he sustained from that unholy persecution.-But the Mormon people are too noble minded to be bought or biased by fear or favor, and have been too often deceived by the plausible pretentions of demagogues to put trust in any but tried friends. Gen. Smith has ever been an undeviating friend, not only to this community, but to the oppressed of every name or society and we consider him as competent and qualified for the highest office of the United States as any other man, and a little more so; and a great deal more worthy of it.
In conclusion, let me say that whatever others may say, I consider it an honor to be associated with such a man as Gen. Joseph Smith, and all true followers of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the more wicked men despise and misrepresent the principles and conduct of President Smith, the more I love him and delight in his society; and this I can do without prejudice or animosity against any man or set of men. I believe in the broad principle of equal rights and privileges so far as religion or politics are concerned, and while I seek to enjoy my religion according to the knowledge in me, I will interfere with the rights of no man, nor persecute because my neighbor does not think as I do.
A multitude of business compels me to close and I must forbear.
I have the honor to be your brother,
in the everlasting covenant,
W. C.
Nauvoo, May 16, 1844
TO THE CHURCH IN MAINE.
Dear Brethren:-Before you see this short epistle you undoubtedly will have seen the name of General J. Smith announced as a candidate for our next president of the United States.
Whatever prejudices may heretofore have occupied your minds, as regards former presidents, and the two great political parties in the United States, together with the candidates already in the field, we are fully persuaded that when you maturely consider the claims of Gen. Smith, he will be the man of your choice for that high responsible office. Martin Van Buren and Henry Clay, regarded as the two great champions of their respective parties will undoubtedly be considered candidates claiming the confidence of this nation in the next presidential canvass. I would say, that it is not my intention to enter into a labored discussion of political principles, nor of the principles and characters of the two men, whose conflicting interests are nothing more than party dogmas that never did nor never can for any great length of time, give permanency to the government, nor promote the peace and best interests of its subjects.
The people of the United States, since the days of Gen. Jackson, have been distracted with the destructive mutations of government, and it is clearly to be seen every discerning person, that the policy persued [pursued] by our last two presidents is not calculated to increase the public weal, nor to place upon our heads crowns of honor. What redeeming principles were ever realized by the course persued [pursued] by Van Buren during his term? Can the first virtuous noble act, as a sweet smelling savor be written of him? How has he treated the respectability of his constituents, citizens of the United States? What was his answer to the delegation from the Church of Latter Day Saints when praying for redress of grievances, while yet Missouri's soil was smoking with the blood of innocence? How were the wishes of fifty thousand freemen treated by him and his adherents? How mysteriously and disgracefully was the affair of the Caroline managed? Mr. Van Buren has demonstrated one fact if no more, that he is altogether unworthy the confidence of a free, enlightened and virtuous people, his own party
(page 556) |
