| 341 by Samuel Leach, chairman, and J. D. Morgan, secretary. 2
The Quincy, Illinois, Argus for March 16, 1839, contains the following editorial:-
"We give in to-day's paper the details of the recent bloody tragedy acted in Missouri-the details of a scene of terror and blood unparalleled in the annals of modern and, under the circumstances of the case, in ancient history-a tragedy of so deep and fearful and absorbing interest that the very lifeblood of the heart is chilled at the simple contemplation. We are prompted to ask ourselves if it be really true that we are living in an enlightened, a humane and civilized age-in an age and quarter of the world boasting of its progress in everything good, and great, and honorable, and virtuous, and high-minded-in a country of which, as American citizens, we could be proud-whether we are living under a constitution and laws, or have not rather returned to the ruthless times of the stern Attila-to the times of the fiery Hun, when the sword and flame ravaged the fair fields of Italy and Europe, and the darkest passions held full revel in all the revolting scenes of unchecked brutality and unbridled desire?
"We have no language sufficiently strong for the expression of our indignation and shame at the recent transaction in a sister State-and that State MISSOURI-a State of which we had long been proud, alike for her men and history, but now so fallen that we could wish her star stricken out from the bright constellation of the Union. We say we
2 Resolved, that we regard the rights of conscience as natural and inalienable, and the most sacred guaranteed by the Constitution of our free government.
Resolved, that we regard the acts of all mobs as flagrant violations of law, and those who compose them individually responsible, both to the laws of God or man, for every depredation committed upon the property, rights, or life of any citizen.
Resolved, that the inhabitants upon the western frontier of the State of Missouri in their late persecutions of the class of people denominated Mormons, have violated the sacred rights of conscience, and every law of justice and humanity
Resolved, that the Governor of Missouri in refusing protection to this class of people when pressed upon by a heartless mob, and turning upon them a band of unprincipled militia, with orders encouraging their extermination, has brought a lasting disgrace upon the State over which he presides.-Persecution of the Saints, pp. 190, 191.
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