History of Utah, 1540-1886 - Brigham Young University

58
THE STORY OF MORMONISM.
while, telling him not to exercise his gift of translating
at present, but simply to write at Joseph's dictation.
Continuing thus, on the 15th of May the two men go
into the woods to ask God concerning baptism, found
mentioned in the plates. Presently a messenger descends
from heaven in a cloud of light. It is John the
Baptist. And he ordains them, saying, "Upon you,
my fellow-servants, in the name of messiah, I confer
the priesthood of Aaron." Baptism by immersion is
directed; the power of laying-on of hands for the gift
of the holy ghost is promised, but not now bestowed
then they are commanded to be baptized, each one
baptizing the other, which is done, each in turn laying
his hands upon the head of the other, and ordaining
him to the Aaronic priesthood. As they come
up out of the water the holy ghost falls upon them,
and they prophesy.
Persecutions continue ;
brethren of Christ threaten
to mob them, but Joseph's wife's father promises
protection. Samuel Smith comes, and is converted,
receiving baptism and obtaining revelations; and later
Joseph's father and mother, Martin Harris, and
others. Food is several times charitably brought to
the translators by Joseph Knight, senior, of Coles-
ville, New York, concerning whom is given a revelation.
In June comes David Whitmer with a request
from his father, Peter Whitmer, of Fayette, New
York, that the translators should occupy his house
thenceforth until the completion of their work, and
brings with him a two-horse wagon to carry them
and their effects. Not only is their board to be free,
but one of the brothers Whitmer, of whom there are
David, John, and Peter junior, will assist in the writing.
Thither they go, and find all as promised; David
and Peter Whitmer and Hyrum Smith are baptized,
and receive revelations through Joseph^ who inquires
of the Lord for them by means of the urim and thummim.
The people thereabout being friendly, meetings
are held, and the new revelation taught, many believ-
;