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Source: Church History Vol. 4 Chapter 2 Page: 37 (~1873-1874)

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37 If it is "tearing down" the work they began (and carried on so long as they lived, judging from their public record), to be opposed to the unrestricted exercise of priestly power; the keeping the people in ignorance; the assuming of martial rights necessarily belonging to others; the prostitution of the institution of marriage to the self-aggrandizement and pleasure of the few, to the exclusion of the many; the preaching, and attempted enforcement of a doctrine as essential to salvation, not contemplated in the gospel contained in the Scriptures, nor revealed in the Book of Mormon and Doctrine and Covenants, then are we so "tearing down."

We rejoice that the work of the last days is progressing; that priestcraft stands shaking in its gaudy trappings; and that honest, hard-thinking, upright men are beginning again to realize that the primitive doctrines of the Latter Day Saints originated with God; not men, nor yet devils.

Whosoever says that the "Smith boys" are "doing more damage" to that system of things that has made the name of Latter Day Saint a synonym for "uncleanness" and "lasciviousness," in the mouths of many; and that has piled difficulties mountains high in the way of preaching the "Word of Life," as revealed to Joseph Smith before his boys were born, pays them a compliment, which as an individual we appreciate; but one which others who labor with them are equally entitled to.

We have not changed in sentiment, in respect to the mooted questions one shade; nor do we expect to. So, "if this be treason," make the most of it.-The Saints' Herald, vol. 20, pp. 738-741.

On December 23 Elder J. W. Briggs arrived with his family in Plano, Illinois, to make his future home there.

The year 1873 was an important one to the church. The more complete organization of the quorums marked a new era in progress and development, and the year ended with increased hope and courage on the part of the laborers in every department.

(page 37)

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