Joseph Smith–History 1

Mormon History 1830-1844

Joseph writes (May 2, 1838) to set the record straight. Birth, family, religious excitement in Manchester, contention among the sects. Reads James 1:5 §, decides to ask God which church is true. Spring 1820 § tries first vocal prayer, tongue-tied, cries out to God, pillar of light appears §. Father and Son descend in light. Father tells Joseph to listen to Son: join no church, none are true, form of godliness but deny the power. Vision ends and Joseph is lying on his back.
Methodist preachers denies modern revelation §. People become prejudiced, persecute young Joseph. Youthful errors §, prays for forgiveness, Moroni appears §, Alvin dies in 1823, Joseph becomes a gold-digger in 1825 §, marries Emma in 1827 §.
Book on gold plates §, containing history of ancient Americans and Jesus' visit to them. Stones in silver bows on breastplate are Urim and Thummim §. Moroni quotes prophets on last days §.
Written in 1838, this part of the Manuscript History of the Church (HC), was first published in the March–August 1842 issues of the Times and Seasons as the beginning of the "History of Joseph Smith" series. In 1851 Franklin D. Richards included it as "Extracts from the History of Joseph Smith …" in his pamphlet for the British Mission, the Pearl of Great Price. The pamphlet was revised for an American edition in 1878, canonized in 1880, revised again in 1902, 1976, and 1979.

	Manuscript History of the Church		Joseph Smith–History 1	MH-A, 1–9. Joseph Smith–History 1
Owing to the many reports	¶ Owing to the many reports which have been put in circulation by evil disposed and designing persons in relation to the rise and progress of the Church of <Jesus Christ of> Latter-day Saints, all of which have been designed by the authors thereof to militate against its Character as a Church, and its progress in the world; I have been induced to write this history so as to disabuse the publick mind, and put all inquirers after truth in possession of the facts as they have transpired in relation both to myself and the Church, so far as I have such facts in my possession.	1	OWING to the many reports which have been put in circulation by evil-disposed and designing persons, in relation to the rise and progress of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, all of which have been designed by the authors thereof to militate against its character as a Church and its progress in the world—I have been induced to write this history, to disabuse the public mind, and put all inquirers after truth in possession of the facts, as they have transpired, in relation both to myself and the Church, so far as I have such facts in my possession.	Joseph Smith—History 1 verse numbers are left of its text. MH-A paragraphs are marked in the text. In the December 1835 MA Joseph charges that untruths had been said about him. ¶ Oliver's History of the Church (2) (1835) Blue: not in Joseph Smith—History 1 .
Now 1838	In this history I will present the various events in relation to this Church in truth and righteousness as they have transpired. or as they at present exist, being now the eighth year since the organization of the Said Church.	2	In this history I shall present the various events in relation to this Church, in truth and righteousness, as they have transpired, or as they at present exist, being now the eighth year since the organization of the said Church.	Red: not in MH-A. now: 1838
Born December 25, 1805 Sharon, Palmyra	¶ I was born in the year of our Lord One thousand Eight hundred and five, on the twenty third day of December, in the town of Sharon, Windsor County, State of Vermont <See page Note A 131>,,	3	I was born in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and five, on the twenty-third day of December, in the town of Sharon, Windsor county, State of Vermont …	Doubled commas and ellipses in original.
	Note A
	¶ When I was five years old or thereabouts I was attacked with the Typhus Fever. and at one time during my sickness, my father despaired of my life. The doctors broke the fever, after which it settled under my Shoulder. & ~~the~~ Dr <Dr Parker> cal[l]ed it a sprained Shoulder & anointed it with bone ointment & freely applied the hot Shovel, when it proved to be a swelling under the arm. which was opened & discharged freely after which the disease removed & descended into my left Leg & ancle & terminated in a fever sore of the worst kind,, and I endured the most acute suffering for a long time under the care of Drs. Smith, Stone & Perkins. of Hanover			MH-A, 131.
	¶ At one time eleven Doctors came from ~~the~~ medical College. at Hanover. for the purpose of amputation, but, young as I was, I utterly refused to give my assent to the operation, but I conscnted to their Trying an experiment by removing a ~~great~~ of the bone from my left leg. which they did. & fourteen additional pieces of bone afterwards worked out before my leg healed, during which time I was reduced so very low that my mother could carry me with ease. & after I began to get about on crutches till I started to the State of New York
	In ~~the~~ ~~mean~~ ~~time~~ my father had gone ~~to the State of New York~~ for the purpose of preparing a place for the removal of his family, which he affected by sending a man after us by the name of Caleb Howard, who, after he ~~had~~ got started, on the Journey with my mother & family spent the money he had received of my father in drinking Gambling &c.
	¶ We fell in with a family by the name of Gates who were travelling west, & Howard drove me from the waggon & made me travel in my weak State through the snow 40 miles per day for several days. during which time I suffered the most. excruciating weariness & pain, & all this that Mr Howard might enjoy the Society of two of Mr Gates' Daughters which he took on the waggon where I should have Rode, & thus he [132] continued to a day after day through the Journey.
	¶ & when my brothers remonstrated with Mr Howard for his treatment of me. he would knock them down with the butt of his whip—
	¶ When we arrived at Utica, N. York Howard threw the Goods out of the waggon into the Street. & attempted to run away with the Horses. & waggon. but my mother seized the horses by the rein, &, calling witnesses forbid his taking them away as they were her property.
	Manuscript History of the Church		Joseph Smith–History 1
	My father Joseph Smith. Senior <See note E. page 2. adenda.
	Note E [sic, C]
	Note E [sic, C]. Joseph Smith <Senr> was born July 12, 1771, in Topsfield, Essex county his father Asael Smith was born March 7th. 1744 Topsfield <Massachusetts> his father Samuel Smith was born Jan'y 26th. 1714 Topsfield Massachusetts his father Samuel Smith was born Jan'y 26th, 1666. Topsfield his father Robert Smith came from England. page 1.			MH-A, Addenda, 2. The first addenda page contains an untitled note for September 4, 1833 (page 345). Note A for "about the 8th of November (page 240), and Note E [sic, C] are on page 2. The notes are in the hand of Willard Richards, who began writing in the history on December 21, 1842.
	Manuscript History of the Church		Joseph Smith–History 1
	My Father>,, left the State of Vermont and moved to Palmyra, Ontario, (now Wayne) County. in the State of New York when I was in my tenth year. <or thereabouts.>		My father, Joseph Smith, Sen., left the State of Vermont, and moved to Palmyra, Ontario (now Wayne) county, in the State of New York, when I was in my tenth year, or thereabouts.	MH-A, 1. "At the age of ten my father's family removed to Palmyra, N.Y. where, and in the vicinity of which, I lived, or, made it my place of residence, until I was twenty one the latter part, in the town of Manchester." Joseph Smith in ¶ Oliver Cowdery's History of the Church (2) (1835)
Manchester	¶ In about four years after, my father's arrival in Palmyra, he moved with his family into Manchester in the same County of Ontario.	4	In about four years after my father’s arrival in Palmyra, he moved with his family into Manchester in the same county of Ontario—
Family members	His family consisting of eleven souls, namely, my father, Joseph Smith, My Mother Lucy Smith whose name previous to her Marriage was Mack, daughter of Solomon Mack, my brothers Alvin (who ~~is now dead~~ <died Nov 19th 1823—in the 25 year of his age> Hyrum, Myself, Samuel —Harrison, William, Don Carloss, and my Sisters Sophronia, Cathrine and Lucy.	4	His family consisting of eleven souls, namely, my father, Joseph Smith; my mother, Lucy Smith (whose name, previous to her marriage, was Mack, daughter of Solomon Mack); my brothers, Alvin (who died November 19th, 1823, in the 26th year of his age), Hyrum, myself, Samuel Harrison, William, Don Carlos; and my sisters, Sophronia, Catherine, and Lucy.	19,th and —in the 25 appear to be in a darker ink.
Excited second year in Manchester No small stir and division	¶ Some time in the second year after our removal to Manchester, there was in the place where we lived an unusual excitement on the subject of religion. It Commenced with the Methodists, but soon became general among all the sects in that region of country, indeed the whole district of Country seemed affected by it and great [2] multitudes united themselves to the different religious parties, which created no small stir and division among the people, Some Crying, "Lo here" and some Lo there. Some were contending for the Methodist faith, Some for the Presbyterian, and some for the Baptist;	5	Some time in the second year after our removal to Manchester, there was in the place where we lived an unusual excitement on the subject of religion. It commenced with the Methodists, but soon became general among all the sects in that region of country. Indeed, the whole district of country seemed affected by it, and great multitudes united themselves to the different religious parties, which created no small stir and division amongst the people, some crying, Lo, here! and others, Lo, there! Some were contending for the Methodist faith, some for the Presbyterian, and some for the Baptist.
Contention	for notwithstanding the great love which the converts to these different faiths expressed at the time of their conversion, and the great Zeal manifested by the respective Clergy who were active in getting up and promoting this extraordinary scene of religious feeling in order to have everybody converted as they were pleased to call it, let them join what sect they pleased yet when the Converts began to file off some to one party and some to another, it was seen that the seemingly good feelings of both the Priests and the Converts were ~~mere pretenc~~ more pretended than real; for a scene of great confusion and bad feeling ensued; Priest contending against priest, and convert against convert so that all their good feelings one for another (if they ever had any) were entirely lost in a strife of words and a contest about opinions.	6	For, notwithstanding the great love which the converts to these different faiths expressed at the time of their conversion, and the great zeal manifested by the respective clergy, who were active in getting up and promoting this extraordinary scene of religious feeling, in order to have everybody converted, as they were pleased to call it, let them join what sect they pleased; yet when the converts began to file off, some to one party and some to another, it was seen that the seemingly good feelings of both the priests and the converts were more pretended than real; for a scene of great confusion and bad feeling ensued—priest contending against priest, and convert against convert; so that all their good feelings one for another, if they ever had any, were entirely lost in a strife of words and a contest about opinions.
Joseph 14 Presbyterians: Lucy, Hyrum, Samuel Sophronia	¶ I was at this time in my fifteenth year. My father's family was <were> proselyted to the Presbyterian faith, and four of them joined that Church, Namely, My Mother Lucy, My Brothers Hyrum, Samuel Harrison, and my Sister Soph[r]onia.	7	I was at this time in my fifteenth year. My father’s family was proselyted to the Presbyterian faith, and four of them joined that church, namely, my mother, Lucy; my brothers Hyrum and Samuel Harrison; and my sister Sophronia.
Joseph reflects, partial to Methodists Can't decide	¶ During this time of great excitement my mind was called up to serious reflection and great uneasiness, but though my feelings were deep and often pungent, still I kept myself aloof from all these parties though I attended their several meetings <as often as occasion> would permit. But in process of time my mind became somewhat partial to the Methodist sect, and I felt some desire to be united with them, but so great was the confusion and strife amongst the different denominations that it was impossible for a person young as I was and so unacquainted with men and things to come to any certain conclusion who was right and who was wrong.	8	During this time of great excitement my mind was called up to serious reflection and great uneasiness; but though my feelings were deep and often poignant, still I kept myself aloof from all these parties, though I attended their several meetings as often as occasion would permit. In process of time my mind became somewhat partial to the Methodist sect, and I felt some desire to be united with them; but so great were the confusion and strife among the different denominations, that it was impossible for a person young as I was, and so unacquainted with men and things, to come to any certain conclusion who was right and who was wrong.
Parties contend	¶ My mind at times was greatly excited ~~for~~ the cry and tumult were so great and incessant. The Presbyterians were most decided against the Baptists and Methodists, and used all their powers of either reason or sophistry to prove their errors, or at least to make the people think they were in error. On the other hand, the Baptists and Methodists in their turn were equally Zealous in endeavoring to establish their own tenets and disprove all others.	9	My mind at times was greatly excited, the cry and tumult were so great and incessant. The Presbyterians were most decided against the Baptists and Methodists, and used all the powers of both reason and sophistry to prove their errors, or, at least, to make the people think they were in error. On the other hand, the Baptists and Methodists in their turn were equally zealous in endeavoring to establish their own tenets and disprove all others.
War of words Who is right? How to know?	¶ In the midst of this war of words, and tumult of opinions, I often said to myself, what is to be done? Who of all these parties are right? or, are they all wrong together? and if any one of them be right which is it? And how shall I know it?	10	In the midst of this war of words and tumult of opinions, I often said to myself: What is to be done? Who of all these parties are right; or, are they all wrong together? If any one of them be right, which is it, and how shall I know it?
James 1:5 Ask of God	¶ While I was laboring under the extreme difficulties caused by the Contests of these parties of religionists, I was one day reading the Epistle of James, First Chapter and fifth verse which reads, "If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally and upbraideth not, and it shall be given him.["]	11	While I was laboring under the extreme difficulties caused by the contests of these parties of religionists, I was one day reading the Epistle of James, first chapter and fifth verse, which reads: If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.
Powerful impression	Never did any passage of scripture come with more power to the heart of man than this did at this time to mine. It seemed to enter with great force into every feeling of my heart. I reflected on it again and again, knowing that if any person needed wisdom from God, I did, for how to act I did not know, and unless I could get more wisdom than I then had, I would never know, for the teachers of religion of the different sects understood the same [3] passage of Scripture so differently as <to> destroy all confidence in settling the question by an appeal to the Bible.	12	Never did any passage of scripture come with more power to the heart of man than this did at this time to mine. It seemed to enter with great force into every feeling of my heart. I reflected on it again and again, knowing that if any person needed wisdom from God, I did; for how to act I did not know, and unless I could get more wisdom than I then had, I would never know; for the teachers of religion of the different sects understood the same passages of scripture so differently as to destroy all confidence in settling the question by an appeal to the Bible.
Remain in darkness or ask God	At length I came to the Conclusion that I must either remain in darkness and confusion or else I must do as James directs, that is, Ask of God. I at last came to the determination to ask of God, Concluding that if he gave wisdom to them that lacked wisdom, and would give liberally and not upbraid, I might venture.	13	At length I came to the conclusion that I must either remain in darkness and confusion, or else I must do as James directs, that is, ask of God. I at length came to the determination to “ask of God,” concluding that if he gave wisdom to them that lacked wisdom, and would give liberally, and not upbraid, I might venture.
Spring 1820 to woods First vocal prayer	So, in accordance with this, my determination to ask of God, I retired to the woods to make the attempt. It was on the morning of a beautiful, clear day early in the spring of Eighteen hundred and twenty. It was the first time in my life that I had <made> such an attempt; for amidst all <my> anxieties I had never as yet made the attempt to pray vocally.	14	So, in accordance with this, my determination to ask of God, I retired to the woods to make the attempt. It was on the morning of a beautiful, clear day, early in the spring of eighteen hundred and twenty. It was the first time in my life that I had made such an attempt, for amidst all my anxieties I had never as yet made the attempt to pray vocally.
Seized by unseen power Tongue-tied Darkness gathers	¶ After I had retired to the place where I had previously designed to go, having looked around me and finding myself alone, I kneeled down and began to offer up the desires of my heart to God, I had scarcely done so, when immediately I was <seized> upon by some power which entirely overcame me and <had> such an astonishing influence over me as to bind my tongue so that I could not speak. Thick darkness gathered around me, and it seemed to me for a time as if I were doomed to sudden destruction.	15	After I had retired to the place where I had previously designed to go, having looked around me, and finding myself alone, I kneeled down and began to offer up the desires of my heart to God. I had scarcely done so, when immediately I was seized upon by some power which entirely overcame me, and had such an astonishing influence over me as to bind my tongue so that I could not speak. Thick darkness gathered around me, and it seemed to me for a time as if I were doomed to sudden destruction.
Calls on God	But exerting all my powers to call upon God to deliver me out of the power of this enemy which had seized upon me, and at the very moment when I was ready to sink into despair and abandon myself to destruction, not to an imaginary ruin but to the power of some actual being from the unseen world who had such marvelous power as I had never before felt in any being.	16	But, exerting all my powers to call upon God to deliver me out of the power of this enemy which had seized upon me, and at the very moment when I was ready to sink into despair and abandon myself to destruction—not to an imaginary ruin, but to the power of some actual being from the unseen world, who had such marvelous power as I had never before felt in any being—
Pillar of light descends	Just at this moment of great alarm, I saw a pillar <of> light exactly over my head above the brightness of the sun, which descended ~~gracefully~~ gradually until it fell upon me.		just at this moment of great alarm, I saw a pillar of light exactly over my head, above the brightness of the sun, which descended gradually until it fell upon me.
Delivered from enemy Two personages This is my Beloved Son	It no sooner appeared than I found myself delivered from the enemy which held me bound. When the light rested upon me I saw two personages (whose brightness and glory defy all description) standing above me in the air. One of <them> spake unto me calling me by name and said (pointing to the other) "This is my beloved Son, Hear Him."	17	It no sooner appeared than I found myself delivered from the enemy which held me bound. When the light rested upon me I saw two Personages, whose brightness and glory defy all description, standing above me in the air. One of them spake unto me, calling me by name and said, pointing to the other—This is My Beloved Son. Hear Him!
Purpose to know which sect right Asks	¶ My object in going to inquire of the Lord was to know which of all the sects was right, that I might know which to join. No sooner therefore did I get possession of my self so as to be able to speak, than I asked the personages who stood above me in the light, which of all the sects was right, (for at this time it had never entered into my heart that all were wrong) and which I should join.	18	My object in going to inquire of the Lord was to know which of all the sects was right, that I might know which to join. No sooner, therefore, did I get possession of myself, so as to be able to speak, than I asked the Personages who stood above me in the light, which of all the sects was right (for at this time it had never entered into my heart that all were wrong)—and which I should join.
Join none, all wrong A form of godliness, but deny the power	I was answered that I must join none of them, for they were all wrong, and the Personage who addressed me said that all their Creeds were an abomination in his sight, that those professors were all Corrupt, that "they draw near to me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me, they teach for doctrines the commandments of men, having a form of Godliness, but they deny the power thereof."	19	I was answered that I must join none of them, for they were all wrong; and the Personage who addressed me said that all their creeds were an abomination in his sight; that those professors were all corrupt; that: “they draw near to me with their lips, but their hearts are far from me, they teach for doctrines the commandments of men, having a form of godliness, but they deny the power thereof.”
Join none, many other things Comes to, lying on back	He again forbade me to join with any of them and many other things did he say unto me which I cannot write at this time. When I came to myself again, I found myself lying on <my> back looking up into Heaven. <B See Note P132>	20	He again forbade me to join with any of them; and many other things did he say unto me, which I cannot write at this time. When I came to myself again, I found myself lying on my back, looking up into heaven.
Leans on fireplace Tells Lucy Presbyterianism not true Persecution from devil	[Note B on page 132:] When the light had departed I had no strength, but soon recovering in some degree. I went home. & as I leaned up to the fire piece. Mother Enquired what the matter was. I replied never mind all is well.—I am well enough off. I then told my mother, I have learned for myself that Presbyterianism is not True. It seems as though the adversary was aware at a very early period of my life that I was destined to prove a disturber & [133] an annoyer of his kingdom, or else why should the powers of Darkness combine against me. why the oppression and persecution that arose against me. almost in my infancy?		When the light had departed, I had no strength; but soon recovering in some degree, I went home. And as I leaned up to the fireplace, mother inquired what the matter was. I replied, “Never mind, all is well—I am well enough off.” I then said to my mother, “I have learned for myself that Presbyterianism is not true.” It seems as though the adversary was aware, at a very early period of my life, that I was destined to prove a disturber and an annoyer of his kingdom; else why should the powers of darkness combine against me? Why the opposition and persecution that arose against me, almost in my infancy?	Doubled periods correct as shown.
			Some preachers and other professors of religion reject account of First Vision—Persecution heaped upon Joseph Smith—He testifies of the reality of the vision. (Verses 21-26.)
Contemptuous preacher Visions, revelations ended with apostles	Some few days after I had this vision I happened to be in company with one of the Methodist preachers who was very active in the before mentioned religious excitement and conversing with him on the subject of religion I took occasion to give him an account of the vision which I had had. I was greatly surprised at his behavior, he treated my communication not only lightly but with great contempt, saying it was all of the Devil, that there were no such things as visions or revelations in these days, that all such things had ceased with the [4] apostles and that there never would be any more of them.	21	Some few days after I had this vision, I happened to be in company with one of the Methodist preachers, who was very active in the before mentioned religious excitement; and, conversing with him on the subject of religion, I took occasion to give him an account of the vision which I had had. I was greatly surprised at his behavior; he treated my communication not only lightly, but with great contempt, saying it was all of the devil, that there were no such things as visions or revelations in these days; that all such things had ceased with the apostles, and that there would never be any more of them.
Religious folk prejudiced, persecute All unite against young Joseph	¶ I soon found however that my telling the story had excited a great deal of prejudice against me among professors of religion and was the Cause of great persecution, which continued to increase and though I was an obscure boy only between fourteen and fifteen years of age <or thereabouts,> and my circumstance in life such as to make a boy of no consequence in the world, yet men of high Standing would take notice sufficiently to excite the public mind against me and create a hot persecution, and this was common <among> all the sects: all united to persecute me.	22	I soon found, however, that my telling the story had excited a great deal of prejudice against me among professors of religion, and was the cause of great persecution, which continued to increase; and though I was an obscure boy, only between fourteen and fifteen years of age, and my circumstances in life such as to make a boy of no consequence in the world, yet men of high standing would take notice sufficient to excite the public mind against me, and create a bitter persecution; and this was common among all the sects—all united to persecute me.	<or thereabouts.>: in different handwriting, ink.
Strange to attract so much attention	It caused me m serious reflection both then and often has since how very strange it was that an obscure boy of a little over fourteen years of age and one, too who was doomed to the necessity of obtaining a scanty maintenance by his daily labor should be thought a character of sufficient importance to attract the attention of the great ones of the most popular sects of the day and in a manner to create in them a spirit of the most bitter persecution and reviling. But strange or not, so it was, and was often the cause of great sorrow to myself.	23	It caused me serious reflection then, and often has since, how very strange it was that an obscure boy, of a little over fourteen years of age, and one, too, who was doomed to the necessity of obtaining a scanty maintenance by his daily labor, should be thought a character of sufficient importance to attract the attention of the great ones of the most popular sects of the day, and in a manner to create in them a spirit of the most bitter persecution and reviling. But strange or not, so it was, and it was often the cause of great sorrow to myself.
Could not deny vision Paul couldn't deny either	However it was nevertheless a fact, that I had beheld a vision. I have thought since that I felt much like as Paul ~~did~~ when he made his defence before King Aggrippa, and related the account of the vision he had when t he saw a light, and heard a voice, but still there were but few who believed him, Some said he was dishonest, Others said he was mad, And he was ridiculed and reviled, But all this did not destroy the reality of his vision. He had seen a vision he knew he had, and the persecution under Heaven Could not make it otherwise, and though they should persecute him unto death, yet he knew and would know to his latest breath that he had both seen a light and heard a voice speaking unto him and all the world could not make him think [-] or believe otherwise.	24	However, it was nevertheless a fact that I had beheld a vision. I have thought since, that I felt much like Paul, when he made his defense before King Agrippa, and related the account of the vision he had when he saw a light, and heard a voice; but still there were but few who believed him; some said he was dishonest, others said he was mad; and he was ridiculed and reviled. But all this did not destroy the reality of his vision. He had seen a vision, he knew he had, and all the persecution under heaven could not make it otherwise; and though they should persecute him unto death, yet he knew, and would know to his latest breath, that he had both seen a light and heard a voice speaking unto him, and all the world could not make him think or believe otherwise.
Joseph saw two personages Hated and persecuted for telling the truth	So it was with me, I had actual[l]y seen a light and in the midst of that light I saw two personages, and they did in reality speak <un>to me, or one of them did, And though I was hated and persecuted for saying that I had seen a vision, yet it was true, and while they were persecuting me reviling me and speaking all manner of evil against me falsely for so saying, I was led to say in my heart, why persecute <me> for telling the truth? I have actually seen a vision, "and who am I that I can withstand God" Or why does the world think to make me deny what I have actually seen, for I had seen a vision, I knew it, and I knew that God knew it, and I could not deny it, neither dared I do it, at least I knew that by so doing <I> would offend God and come under condemnation.	25	So it was with me. I had actually seen a light, and in the midst of that light I saw two Personages, and they did in reality speak to me; and though I was hated and persecuted for saying that I had seen a vision, yet it was true; and while they were persecuting me, reviling me, and speaking all manner of evil against me falsely for so saying, I was led to say in my heart: Why persecute me for telling the truth? I have actually seen a vision; and who am I that I can withstand God, or why does the world think to make me deny what I have actually seen? For I had seen a vision; I knew it, and I knew that God knew it, and I could not deny it, neither dared I do it; at least I knew that by so doing I would offend God, and come under condemnation.
James was right, will wait	¶ I had now got my mind satisfied so far as the sectarian world was concerned, that it was not my duty to join with any of them, but continue as I was untill further directed ~~for~~ I had found the testimony of James to be true, that a man who lacked wisdom might ask of God, and obtain and not be upbraided.	26	I had now got my mind satisfied so far as the sectarian world was concerned—that it was not my duty to join with any of them, but to continue as I was until further directed. I had found the testimony of James to be true—that a man who lacked wisdom might ask of God, and obtain, and not be upbraided.	~~for~~: canceled in different ink or pencil.
			Moroni appears to Joseph Smith—Joseph’s name is to be known for good and evil among all nations—Moroni tells him of the Book of Mormon and of the coming judgments of the Lord, and quotes many scriptures—The hiding place of the gold plates is revealed—Moroni continues to instruct the Prophet. (Verses 27-54.)
Severe persecution	I continued to pursue my common vocations in life untill the twenty first of September, One thousand Eight hundred and twenty three, all the time suffering severe persecution at the hands of all classes of men, both religious and irreligious because I continued to affirm that I <had> seen a vision.	27	I continued to pursue my common vocations in life until the twenty-first of September, one thousand eight hundred and twenty-three, all the time suffering severe persecution at the hands of all classes of men, both religious and irreligious, because I continued to affirm that I had seen a vision.
Others should have tried to help	¶ During the space of time which intervened between the time I had the vision and the year Eighteen hundred and twenty three, (having been forbidden to join any of the religious sects of the day, and being of very tender years and persecuted by those who ought to have been my friends, and to have treated me kindly [5] and if they supposed me to be deluded to have endeavored in a proper and affectionate manner to have reclaimed me)	28	During the space of time which intervened between the time I had the vision and the year eighteen hundred and twenty-three—having been forbidden to join any of the religious sects of the day, and being of very tender years, and persecuted by those who ought to have been my friends and to have treated me kindly, and if they supposed me to be deluded to have endeavored in a proper and affectionate manner to have reclaimed me—
Foolish errors, weakness of youth No great sin Levity, jovial company	I was left to ~~all kinds of~~ temptations, and mingling <with> ~~all kinds of~~ society I frequently <fell> into many foolish errors and displayed the weakness of youth, and the ~~corruption~~ <foibles> of human nature which I am sorry to say led me into divers temptations ~~to the gratification of many appetites~~ offensive in the sight of God. <See Note C. P. 133>		I was left to all kinds of temptations; and, mingling with all kinds of society, I frequently fell into many foolish errors, and displayed the weakness of youth, and the foibles of human nature; which, I am sorry to say, led me into divers temptations, offensive in the sight of God.	"During this time, as is common to most, or all youths, I fell into many vices and follies; but as my accusers are, and have been forward to accuse me of being guilty of gross and outrageous violations of the peace and good order of the community, I take the occasion to remark, that, though, as I have said above, 'as is common to most, or all youths, I fell into many vices and follies,'
	Note C
	In making this confession, no one need suppose me guilty of any great or malignant sins: a disposition to commit Such was never in my nature; but I was guilty of Levity, & sometimes associated with Jovial company &c, not consistent with that character which ought to be maintained by one who was called of God as I had been; but this will not seem very strange to any one who recollects my youth & is acqur<auint>ed with my native cheerly Temperament.		In making this confession, no one need suppose me guilty of any great or malignant sins. A disposition to commit such was never in my nature. But I was guilty of levity, and sometimes associated with jovial company, etc., not consistent with that character which ought to be maintained by one who was called of God as I had been. But this will not seem very strange to any one who recollects my youth, and is acquainted with my native cheery temperament.	I have not, neither can it be sustained, in truth, been guilty of wronging or injuring any man or society of men; and those imperfections to which I allude, and for which I have often had occasion to lament, were a light, and too often, vain mind, exhibiting a foolish and trifling conversation. … I often acted in violation of those holy precepts which I knew came from God." Joseph Smith in ¶ Oliver Cowdery's History of the Church (2) (1835)
1823 prays for forgiveness Confident of getting a divine manifestation	In consequence of these things I often felt condemned for my weakness and imperfections; when on the evening of the above mentioned twenty first of september, after I had retired to my bed for the night I betook myself to prayer and supplication to Almighty God for forgiveness of all my sins and follies, and also for a manifestation to me that I might know of my state and standing before him. For I had full confidence in obtaining a divine manifestation, as I previously had one.	29	In consequence of these things, I often felt condemned for my weakness and imperfections; when, on the evening of the above-mentioned twenty-first of September, after I had retired to my bed for the night, I betook myself to prayer and supplication to Almighty God for forgiveness of all my sins and follies, and also for a manifestation to me, that I might know of my state and standing before him; for I had full confidence in obtaining a divine manifestation, as I previously had one.
Light appears Personage standing in the air	While I was thus in the act of Calling upon God, I discovered a light appearing in the my room which continued to increase untill the room was lighter than at noonday ~~and~~ when immediately a personage <appeared> at my bedside standing in the air for his feet did not touch the floor.	30	While I was thus in the act of calling upon God, I discovered a light appearing in my room, which continued to increase until the room was lighter than at noonday, when immediately a personage appeared at my bedside, standing in the air, for his feet did not touch the floor.
White robe	He had on a loose robe of most exquisite whiteness. It was a whiteness beyond any <thing> earthly I had ever seen, nor do I believe that any earthly thing Could be made to appear so exceedingly white and brilliant, His hands were naked, and his arms also, a little above the wrists. So also were his feet naked as were his legs a little above the ankles. His head and neck were also bare. I could discover that he had no other Clothing on but this robe, as it was open so that I could see into his bosom.	31	He had on a loose robe of most exquisite whiteness. It was a whiteness beyond anything earthly I had ever seen; nor do I believe that any earthly thing could be made to appear so exceedingly white and brilliant. His hands were naked, and his arms also, a little above the wrist; so, also, were his feet naked, as were his legs, a little above the ankles. His head and neck were also bare. I could discover that he had no other clothing on but this robe, as it was open, so that I could see into his bosom.
Glorious personage Afraid at first	¶ Not only was his robe exceedingly white, but his whole person was glorious beyond description, and his countenance truly like lightning. The room was exceedingly light, but not so very bright as immediately around his person. When I first looked upon him I was afraid, but the fear soon left me.	32	Not only was his robe exceedingly white, but his whole person was glorious beyond description, and his countenance truly like lightning. The room was exceedingly light, but not so very bright as immediately around his person. When I first looked upon him, I was afraid; but the fear soon left me.
Moroni: God has a work for you To be known for good and evil world-wide	He called me by name and said unto me that he was a messenger sent from the presence of God to me and that his name was Nephi <Moroni>.* That God had a work for me to do, and that my <name> should be had for good and evil among all nations kindreds and tongues. or that it should be both good and evil spoken of among all people.	33	He called me by name, and said unto me that he was a messenger sent from the presence of God to me, and that his name was Moroni; that God had a work for me to do; and that my name should be had for good and evil among all nations, kindreds, and tongues, or that it should be both good and evil spoken of among all people.	: Moroni* is inserted above Nephi. The asterisk is above the period. Dean Jessee suggests they may have been inserted by B. H. Roberts. Papers 1:277n1.
Gold plates, a history Everlasting gospel	He said there was a book deposited written upon gold plates, giving an account of the former inhabitants of this Continent and the source from whence they Sprang. He also said that the fullness of the everlasting Gospel was contained in it as delivered by the Savior to the ancient inhabitants.	34	He said there was a book deposited, written upon gold plates, giving an account of the former inhabitants of this continent, and the source from whence they sprang. He also said that the fulness of the everlasting Gospel was contained in it, as delivered by the Savior to the ancient inhabitants;
Urim and Thummim, the seers, made for translating	Also that there were two stones in silver bows and these <stones> (<fastened> ~~put~~<the possession and use of these stones> in to a breastplate) ~~which~~ constituted what is called the Urim & Thummin deposited with the plates, and ~~that~~ <their stones> was what constituted seers in ancient or former times and that God <had> prepared them for the purpose of translating the book.	35	Also, that there were two stones in silver bows—and these stones, fastened to a breastplate, constituted what is called the Urim and Thummim—deposited with the plates; and the possession and use of these stones were what constituted "seers" in ancient or former times; and that God had prepared them for the purpose of translating the book.	(<stones> (<fastened>, <the possession and use of these stones>, and ) are in a different ink and handwriting.
Quotes Malachi 3, 4 (modified)	After telling me these things he commenced quoting the prophecies of the Old testament, he first quoted part of the third Chapter of Malachi and he quoted also the fourth or last chapter of the same prophecy though with a little variation from the way it reads in our Bibles. Instead of quoting the first verse as reads in our books he quoted it thus,	36	After telling me these things, he commenced quoting the prophecies of the Old Testament. He first quoted part of the third chapter of Malachi; and he quoted also the fourth or last chapter of the same prophecy, though with a little variation from the way it reads in our Bibles. Instead of quoting the first verse as it reads in our books, he quoted it thus:	Malachi 3
Earth shall burn as an oven	"For behold the day cometh that shall burn as an oven, and all the proud <yea> and all that do wickedly shall burn as stubble, for <the y day> that Cometh shall burn them saith the Lord of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch."	37	For behold, the day cometh that shall burn as an oven, and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly shall burn as stubble; for they that come shall burn them, saith the Lord of Hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch.	"For, behold, the day cometh, that shall burn as an oven; and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble: and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the LORD of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch." Malachi 4:1. Unchanged in Joseph's translation of the Bible.
Elijah to reveal priesthood	And again he quoted the fifth verse thus, "Behold I will reveal unto you the Priesthood by the hand of Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord."	38	And again, he quoted the fifth verse thus: Behold, I will reveal unto you the Priesthood, by the hand of Elijah the prophet, before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord.	"Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the LORD." Malachi 4:5. Unchanged in Joseph's translation of the Bible. Included as D&C 2 in 1876.
Plant promises in children's and fathers' hearts	He also quoted the next verse differently. [6] And he shall plant in the hearts of the Children the promises made to the fathers, and the hearts of the Children shall turn to their fathers, if it were not so the whole earth would be utterly wasted at his coming."	39	He also quoted the next verse differently: And he shall plant in the hearts of the children the promises made to the fathers, and the hearts of the children shall turn to their fathers. If it were not so, the whole earth would be utterly wasted at his coming.	At the bottom of page 5 is the following note: * Evidently a clerical error; see Book Doc & Cov. See 50, par 2; See 106, par 20; also Elders' Journal 1, page 43. Should read Moroni. "And he shall turn the heart of the fathers to the children, and the heart of the children to their fathers, lest I come and smite the earth with a curse." Malachi 4:6. Unchanged in Joseph's translation.
Isaiah 11 about to be fulfilled (end time)	In addition to these, he ~~quotations~~ he quoted the Eleventh Chapter of Isaiah, saying that it was about to be fulfilled. He quoted also the third Chapter of Acts, twenty second and twenty third verses precisely as they stand in our new testament, He said that that prophet was Christ, but the day had not yet come when "they who would not hear his voice should be cut off from among the people," but soon would come.	40	In addition to these, he quoted the eleventh chapter of Isaiah, saying that it was about to be fulfilled. He quoted also the third chapter of Acts, twenty-second and twenty-third verses, precisely as they stand in our New Testament. He said that that prophet was Christ; but the day had not yet come when "they who would not hear his voice should be cut off from among the people," but soon would come.	Isaiah 11 "For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you. And it shall come to pass, that every soul, which will not hear that prophet, shall be destroyed from among the people." Acts 3:22–23
Joel Fulness of the Gentiles	¶ He also quoted the second chapter of Joel from the twenty eighth verse to the last. He also said that this was not yet fulfilled, but was soon to be. And he further stated that the fullness of the gentiles was soon to come in. He quoted many other passages of scripture and offered many explanations which cannot be mentioned here.	41	He also quoted the second chapter of Joel, from the twenty-eighth verse to the last. He also said that this was not yet fulfilled, but was soon to be. And he further stated that the fulness of the Gentiles was soon to come in. He quoted many other passages of scripture, and offered many explanations which cannot be mentioned here.	¶ Joel 2
Don't show plates, breastplate, Urim and Thummim unless commanded Sees the place	¶ Again he told me that when I got those plates of which he had spoken (for the time that they should be obtained was not yet fulfilled) I should not show <them> to any person, neither the breastplate with the Urim and Thummin only to those to whom I should be commanded to show them. If I did I should be destroyed. While he was conversing with me about the plates the vision was opened to my mind that I could see the place where the plates were deposited and that so clearly and distinctly that I knew the place again when I visited it.	42	Again, he told me, that when I got those plates of which he had spoken—for the time that they should be obtained was not yet fulfilled—I should not show them to any person; neither the breastplate with the Urim and Thummim; only to those to whom I should be commanded to show them; if I did I should be destroyed. While he was conversing with me about the plates, the vision was opened to my mind that I could see the place where the plates were deposited, and that so clearly and distinctly that I knew the place again when I visited it.
Light gathers around the person, ascends into heaven	¶ After this ~~conversation~~ communication I saw the light in the room begin to gather immediately around the person of him who had been speaking to me and it continued to do so untill the room was again left dark, except just round him when instantly I saw as it were a conduit open right up into heaven, and he ascended till he entirely disappeared And the room was left as it had been before this heavenly light had made its appearance.	43	After this communication, I saw the light in the room begin to gather immediately around the person of him who had been speaking to me, and it continued to do so until the room was again left dark, except just around him; when, instantly I saw, as it were, a conduit open right up into heaven, and he ascended till he entirely disappeared, and the room was left as it had been before this heavenly light had made its appearance.
Second visit	¶ I lay musing on the singularity of the scene and marvelling greatly at what had been told me by this extraordinary messenger, when in the midst of my meditation I suddenly discovered that my room was again beginning to get lighted, and in an instant as it were, the same heavenly messenger was again by my bedside.	44	I lay musing on the singularity of the scene, and marveling greatly at what had been told to me by this extraordinary messenger; when, in the midst of my meditation, I suddenly discovered that my room was again beginning to get lighted, and in an instant, as it were, the same heavenly messenger was again by my bedside.
Repeats message without change Judgments coming, calamities, wars	He commenced and again related the very same things which he had done at his first visit without the least variation which having done, he informed me of great judgments which were coming upon the earth, with great desolations by famine, sword, and pestilence, and that these grievous judgments would come on the earth in this generation: Having related these things he again ascended as he had done before.	45	He commenced, and again related the very same things which he had done at his first visit, without the least variation; which having done, he informed me of great judgments which were coming upon the earth, with great desolations by famine, sword, and pestilence; and that these grievous judgments would come on the earth in this generation. Having related these things, he again ascended as he had done before.
Astonished, can't sleep	¶ By this time so deep were the impressions made on my mind that sleep had fled from my eyes and I lay overwhelmed in astonishment at what I had both seen and heard;	46	By this time, so deep were the impressions made on my mind, that sleep had fled from my eyes, and I lay overwhelmed in astonishment at what I had both seen and heard.
Third visit Repeats message Satan will tempt (poverty) Only object to build God's kingdom	¶ But what was my surprise when again I beheld the same messenger at my bedside, and heard him rehearse or repeat over again to me the same things as before and added a caution to me, telling me that Satan would try to tempt me (in consequence of the indigent circumstances of my father's family) to get the plates for the purpose of getting rich, This he forbid me, saying that I must have me no other object in view in getting the plates but to glorify God, and must not be influenced by any other motive than that of building his kingdom, otherwise I could not get them.		But what was my surprise when again I beheld the same messenger at my bedside, and heard him rehearse or repeat over again to me the same things as before; and added a caution to me, telling me that Satan would try to tempt me (in consequence of the indigent circumstances of my father's family), to get the plates for the purpose of getting rich. This he forbade me, saying that I must have no other object in view in getting the plates but to glorify God, and must not be influenced by any other motive than that of building his kingdom; otherwise I could not get them.
Cock crows	¶ After this third visit he again ascended into heaven as before and I was again left to ponder on the [7] strangeness of what I had just experienced, when almost immediately after the heavenly messenger had ascended from me for the third time, the Cock crew, and I found that day was approaching, so that our interviews must have occupied the whole of that night.	47	After this third visit, he again ascended into heaven as before, and I was again left to ponder on the strangeness of what I had just experienced; when almost immediately after the heavenly messenger had ascended from me for the third time, the cock crowed, and I found that day was approaching, so that our interviews must have occupied the whole of that night.
Faints at work Falls unconscious	¶ I shortly after arose from my bed, and as usual went to the necessary labors of the day, but in attempting to labor as at other times, I found my strength so exhausted as rendered me entirely unable.	48	I shortly after arose from my bed, and, as usual, went to the necessary labors of the day; but, in attempting to work as at other times, I found my strength so exhausted as to render me entirely unable.
	¶ My father who was laboring along <with> me discovered something to be wrong with me and told me to go home. I started with the intention of going to the house, but in attempting to cross the fence out of the field where we were, my strength entirely failed me and I fell helpless on the ground and for a time was quite unconscious of anything.		My father, who was laboring along with me, discovered something to be wrong with me, and told me to go home. I started with the intention of going to the house; but, in attempting to cross the fence out of the field where we were, my strength entirely failed me, and I fell helpless on the ground, and for a time was quite unconscious of anything.
Messenger appears Repeats message Tell father	The first thing that I can recollect was a voice speaking unto me, Calling me by name. I looked up and beheld the Same messenger standing over my head surrounded by light as before. He then again related unto me all that he had related to me the previous night, and commanded me to go to my father and tell him of the vision and commandments which I had received.	49	The first thing that I can recollect was a voice speaking unto me, calling me by name. I looked up, and beheld the same messenger standing over my head, surrounded by light as before. He then again related unto me all that he had related to me the previous night, and commanded me to go to my father and tell him of the vision and commandments which I had received.
Tells father Joseph Sr. believes Joseph goes to site	¶ I obeyed. I returned to my father in the field and rehearsed the whole matter to him. He replyed to me, that it was of God, and to go and do as commanded by the messenger. I left the field and went to the place where the messenger had told me the plates were deposited, and owing to the distinctness of the vision which I had had concerning it, I knew the place the instant that I arrived there.*	50	I obeyed; I returned to my father in the field, and rehearsed the whole matter to him. He replied to me that it was of God, and told me to go and do as commanded by the messenger. I left the field, and went to the place where the messenger had told me the plates were deposited; and owing to the distinctness of the vision which I had had concerning it, I knew the place the instant that I arrived there.
	* I mentioned to President Smith that I considered it necessary that an explanation of <the location of> this place where the box was desposited would be required in order that the history be satisfactory.			Purple: Note in the hand of James Mulholland (according to Dean Jessee) attached to the manuscript.
	J, M.
Hill	* Convenient to the ~~little~~ village of Manchester, Ontario County, New york, Stands a hill of Considerable Size, And the most elevated of any in the neighborhood, On the west side of this hill not far from the top	51	Convenient to the village of Manchester, Ontario county, New York, stands a hill of considerable size, and the most elevated of any in the neighborhood. On the west side of this hill, not far from the top,	Written on opposite of the note, by James Mulholland.
Stone visible	Under a ~~stound~~ stone of considerable size, lay the plates deposited in a stone box, This stone was thick and rounding in the middle on the upper side, and thinner towards the edges, so that the middle part of it was visible above the ground, but the edge all round was covered with earth.		under a stone of considerable size, lay the plates, deposited in a stone box. This stone was thick and rounding in the middle on the upper side, and thinner towards the edges, so that the middle part of it was visible above the ground, but the edge all around was covered with earth.
Raises with lever Sees plates, Urim and Thummim, breastplate	Having removed the earth ~~off the edge of the Stone,~~ and obtained a lever which I got fixed under the edge of the Stone, and with a little exertion raised it up, I looked in and there indeed did I behold the plates, the Urim and Thummin, and the Breastplate as stated by the messenger The box in which they lay was formed by laying stones together in some kind of Cement, in the bottom of the box were laid two stones crossways of the box, and on these stones lay the plates and the other things with them.	52	Having removed the earth, I obtained a lever, which I got fixed under the edge of the stone, and with a little exertion raised it up. I looked in, and there indeed did I behold the plates, the Urim and Thummim, and the breastplate, as stated by the messenger. The box in which they lay was formed by laying stones together in some kind of cement. In the bottom of the box were laid two stones crossways of the box, and on these stones lay the plates and the other things with them.
Messenger prevents taking plates Wait 4 years Come again in a year	I made an attempt to take them out but was forbidden by the messenger and was again informed that the time <for> bringing them forth had not yet arrived, neither would untill four years from that time, but he told me that I should come to that place precisely in one year from that time, and that he would there meet with me, and that I should continue to do so untill the time should come for obtaining the plates.	53	I made an attempt to take them out, but was forbidden by the messenger, and was again informed that the time for bringing them forth had not yet arrived, neither would it, until four years from that time; but he told me that I should come to that place precisely in one year from that time, and that he would there meet with me, and that I should continue to do so until the time should come for obtaining the plates.
Goes each year, sees messenger, who instructs regarding conduct of coming kingdom	Accordingly as I had been commanded I went at the end of each year and at each time I found the same messenger there and received instruction and intelligence from him at each of our interviews respecting what the Lord was going to do, and how and in what manner his kingdom was to be conducted in the last days.	54	Accordingly, as I had been commanded, I went at the end of each year, and at each time I found the same messenger there, and received instruction and intelligence from him at each of our interviews, respecting what the Lord was going to do, and how and in what manner his kingdom was to be conducted in the last days.
Poor, manual labor	¶ As my father's worldly circumstances were very <limited>, we were under the necessity of laboring with our hands, hiring by days works and otherwise as we could get opportunity, sometimes we were at home and some times abroad and by continued labor were enabled to get a comfortable maintenance.	55	As my father's worldly circumstances were very limited, we were under the necessity of laboring with our hands, hiring out by day's work and otherwise, as we could get opportunity. Sometimes we were at home, and sometimes abroad, and by continuous labor were enabled to get a comfortable maintenance.
1823 Alvin dies	¶ In the year Eighteen hundred and twenty four my fathers family met with a great affliction by the death of my eldest brother Alvin.	56	In the year 1823 my father's family met with a great affliction by the death of my eldest brother, Alvin.
1825 works for Stoal Spanish treasure rumor Money-digger	In the month of October Eighteen hundred and twenty five I hired with an old Gentleman, by the name of Josiah Stoal [8] who lived in Chenango County, State of New York. He had heard something of a Silver mine having been opened by the Spaniards in Harmony, Susquahanna County, State of Pensylvania, and had previous to my hiring with him been digging in order if possible to discover the mine. After I went to live with <him> he took me among the rest of his hands to dig for the silver mine, at which I continued to work for nearly a month without success in our undertaking, and finally I prevailed with the Old gentleman to cease digging after it. Hence arose the very prevalent story of my having been a money digger.		In the month of October, 1825, I hired with an old gentleman by the name of Josiah Stoal, who lived in Chenango county, State of New York. He had heard something of a silver mine having been opened by the Spaniards in Harmony, Susquehanna county, State of Pennsylvania; and had, previous to my hiring to him, been digging, in order, if possible, to discover the mine. After I went to live with him, he took me, with the rest of his hands, to dig for the silver mine, at which I continued to work for nearly a month, without success in our undertaking, and finally I prevailed with the old gentleman to cease digging after it. Hence arose the very prevalent story of my having been a money-digger.	Stoal: elsewhere spelled Stowell
Boards with the Hales 1827 marries Emma	¶ During the time that I was thus employed I was put to board with a Mr Isaac Hale of that place, Twas there that I first saw my wife, (his daughter) Emma Hale. On the eighteenth of January Eighteen hundred and twenty seven we were married while I was yet employed in the service of Mr Stoal.	57	During the time that I was thus employed, I was put to board with a Mr. Isaac Hale, of that place; it was there I first saw my wife (his daughter), Emma Hale. On the 18th of January, 1827, we were married, while I was yet employed in the service of Mr. Stoal.
Persecution Moves back to Joseph Sr.'s	Owing to my continuing to assert that I had seen a vision, persecution still followed me, ~~and so much was my wife's father excited, that he was greatly~~ <and my wife's father's family were very much> opposed to our being married, ~~in so much that he would not suffer us to be married at his house~~, I was therefore under the necessity of taking her elsewhere, so we went and were married at ~~Mr St~~ the house of ~~Mr Stoal~~. <Squire Tarbill. in South Bainbridge. Chenango County. New york.> Immediately after my marriage I left Mr. Stoals, and went to my father's and farmed with him that season.	58	Owing to my continuing to assert that I had seen a vision, persecution still followed me, and my wife's father's family were very much opposed to our being married. I was, therefore, under the necessity of taking her elsewhere; so we went and were married at the house of Squire Tarbill, in South Bainbridge, Chenango county, New York. Immediately after my marriage, I left Mr. Stoal's, and went to my father's, and farmed with him that season.
September 22, 1827 Messenger delivers plates to Joseph Will be protected	¶ At length the time arrived for obtaining the plates, the Urim and Thummin and the breastplate, On the twenty second day of September, One thousand Eight hundred and twenty seven, having went as usual at the end of another year to the place where they were deposited, the same heavenly messenger delivered them up to me with this charge that I should be responsible for them. That if I should let them go Carelessly or <through> any neglect of mine I should be cut off; but that if I would use all my endeavours to preserve them untill <he> (the messenger) ~~Called~~ should call for them, they should be protected.	59	At length the time arrived for obtaining the plates, the Urim and Thummim, and the breastplate. On the twenty-second day of September, one thousand eight hundred and twenty-seven, having gone as usual at the end of another year to the place where they were deposited, the same heavenly messenger delivered them up to me with this charge: that I should be responsible for them; that if I should let them go carelessly, or through any neglect of mine, I should be cut off; but that if I would use all my endeavors to preserve them, until he, the messenger, should call for them, they should be protected.
Attempts to get plates	¶ I soon found out the reason why I had received such strict charges to keep them safe, and why it was that the messenger had said that when I had done what was required at my hand, he would call for them, for no sooner was it known that I had them, than the most strenious exertions were used to get them from me. Every stratagem that Could be ~~resorted~~ invented was resorted to for that purpose.	60	I soon found out the reason why I had received such strict charges to keep them safe, and why it was that the messenger had said that when I had done what was required at my hand, he would call for them. For no sooner was it known that I had them, than the most strenuous exertions were used to get them from me. Every stratagem that could be invented was resorted to for that purpose.
	¶ The persecution became more bitter and severe than before, and multitudes were on the alert continualy to get them from me if possible		The persecution became more bitter and severe than before, and multitudes were on the alert continually to get them from me if possible.
Joseph completes work, messenger has plates	but by the wisdom of God they remained safe in my hands untill I had accomplished by them what was required at my hand, when according to arrangement the messenger called for them, I delivered them up to him and he has them in his charge untill this day, being the Second day of May, One thousand Eight hundred and thirty eight		But by the wisdom of God, they remained safe in my hands, until I had accomplished by them what was required at my hand. When, according to arrangements, the messenger called for them, I delivered them up to him; and he has them in his charge until this day, being the second day of May, one thousand eight hundred and thirty-eight.
Rumors, persecution Moves to Pennsylvania Meets Martin Harris of Palmyra	The excitement however still continued, and rumour with her thousand tongues was all the time employed in circulating tales about my father's family and about myself. If I were to relate a thousan<d>th part of them it would fill up volumes. The persecution however became so intolerable that I was under the necessity of leaving Manchester and going with my wife <to> Susquahana County in the State of Pensyllvania. While preparing to start (being very poor and the persecution so heavy upon us that there was no probability that we would ever be other wise) in the midst of our afflictions we found a friend in a Gentleman by the name of Martin Harris, who Came to us and gave me fifty dollar [9] to assist us in our affliction, Mr. Harris was a resident of Palmyra township Wayne County in the State of New York and a farmer of respectability.	61	The excitement, however, still continued, and rumor with her thousand tongues was all the time employed in circulating falsehoods about my father's family, and about myself. If I were to relate a thousandth part of them, it would fill up volumes. The persecution, however, became so intolerable that I was under the necessity of leaving Manchester, and going with my wife to Susquehanna county, in the State of Pennsylvania. While preparing to start—being very poor, and the persecution so heavy upon us that there was no probability that we would ever be otherwise—in the midst of our afflictions we found a friend in a gentleman by the name of Martin Harris, who came to us and gave me fifty dollars to assist us on our journey. Mr. Harris was a resident of Palmyra township, Wayne county, in the State of New York, and a farmer of respectability.
Copies characters Translates at Hale home	By this timely aid was I enabled to reach the place o