| 47 to discover and demonstrate new truths. And in this way may excel in science and the arts, by turning every thing to profit in agriculture and machinery, as well is in religion, and morality.
If the world in confusion and under mental bondage have made valvable [valuable] acquisitions, what may not the saints do? Situated as they are, with a man at their head. who can detect error, and fully appreciate philosophical truth, 'even by the spirit of truth, which will guide into all truth.'
May they not, by every man improving his own talent, by industry and perseverance, become the most prosperous, happy, and intelligent people upon the earth?
For the number, and value of scientific truths made known, will be in proportion to the number of active minds engaged.
Thus, while the surrounding nations are convulsed and 'perplexed,' for the want of a circulating medium; we, by making capital of genius and intellect, may dwell in civil peace and harmony. H. TATE. Nauvoo, Illinois, Dec. 15th 1842.
EXTRACT OF A LETTER FROM F. M. HIGBEE.
Nauvoo, Dec. 25th 1842.
Editor of the Times and Seasons:
DEAR SIR:-Please publish the following extracts from a letter received from Francis M. Higbee, written to his parents, in answer to a letter written to him by them, upon the subject of two letters purporting to be written by him to J. C. Bennett and published in his book, entitled the "History of the Saints."
Respectfully yours, as ever, ELIAS HIGBEE.
Cary's Academy Pleasant Hill, Nov. 28,1842.
DEAR FATHER AND MOTHER:-I received your letter to-day, under date of Nov. 13th which contained astonishing news to me indeed; and equally as painful as strange, and that is the fact of Benett's [Bennet's] book containing two letters from me, as such a thing has no foundation in truth. He has not got a scratch on earth, nor never did he have, with my name subscribed by my own hand, except the affidavit that fell into his hands.
But as for any other document., or paper of any description, sort, or size, with my name to it, he has not got it from me; nor from any one authorized to give it, for as such no one ever possessed the power of executing from me, either directly or indirectly. And if he has published any thing over my signature, or name, it is forged, and I forever detest and disclaim any such thing. I have been subjected both by letter, and in person, to come out with such a lingo as Bennett, and others have done and attempted in days gone by. My assistance has loudly been called for in such a sheme [scheme], or adventure, and in one instance since I left home I have had what some might consider (were they disposed to be dishonest) a great offer or proposition made me, if I would assist in the management, and bringing into existence, a newly modeled concern against the church; that is a corrected and revised story fresh from the mint. But God forbid, as long as he gives me health, and strength, and vigor of mind, I scorn the idea. * * * * * * *
I have never had any feelings against the church, or people; with the exception of a very few. * * * * * * * * *
I have always respected, and reverenced, the work or faith and shall always continue so to do. * * * * * * * * *
I want you to understand that I have no feeling against Joseph: I have fully satisfied myself that he has been called of God, to do a great and mighty, work in the earth, and let it suffice to say I am fully satisfied with him.-All our former difficulties (if such might be called) were forever effectually settled before I left. Bennett has by his artful cunning, or low cunning, sought to bring them into existence, but I hope without effect: for I should much regret any such thing. * * * * ** * * *
Bennett has been the instigator probably of more real trouble and misery than any other man we have ever met with, or ever shall find in this world. Vain man! would it not have been better for him if he had had a millstone tied about his neck, and then been cast into the sea? For there is hope of a tree if it be cut down that the tender branches will spring up again; but there is no hope of him. He has lain himself down and is already wasting away, like the morning dew before the sun in the meridian splendor and in the glory of his power. Yours as ever, FRANCIS M. HIGBEE.
It would seem that Bennett has been making pretty free use of people's names; we published a short time since from a brother of Francis M. Higbee, a letter stating that he had written two letters, over his signature, which he stated was a forgery, and unauthorised [unauthorized] by him.
CONFERENCE MINUTES.
The liberty branch of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, met in conference at liberty schoolhouse, Cotton township
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