History of Utah, 1540-1886 - Brigham Young University

172
THE STORY OF MORMONISM.
In consequence of these rumors and counter-rumors
the governor went to Carthage. Previous to this,
frequent communications were sent to him at Spring-
field by Joseph Smith, informing him of the position
of affairs in and around Nauvoo. The governor in
his History of Illinois, referring to these times, writes:
"These also were the active men in blowing up the
fury of the people, in hopes that a popular movement
might be set on foot, which would result in the expulsion
or extermination of the Mormon voters. For this
purpose public meetings had been called, inflammatory
speeches had been made, exaggerated reports had been
extensively circulated, committees had been appointed,
who rode night and day to spread the reports and
solicit the aid of neighboring counties, and at a public
meeting at Warsaw resolutions were passed to expel
or exterminate the Mormon population. This was
not, however, a movement which was unanimously
concurred in. The county contained a goodly number
of inhabitants in favor of peace, or who at least
desired to be neutral in such a contest. These were
stigmatized by the name of Jack Mormons, and there
were not a few of the more furious exciters of the
people who openly expressed their intention to involve
them in the common expulsion or extermination."
Thomas Ford, governor of Illinois, wr as as a man
rather above the average politician usually chosen
among these American states to fill that position.
Not specially clear-headed, and having no brain power
to spare, he was quite respectable and had some conscience,
as is frequently the case with mediocre men.
He had a good heart, too, was in no wise vindictive,
and though he was in no sense a strong man, his sense
of right and equity could be quite stubborn upon oc-
6th inst, it was resolved to call in the people of the surrounding counties and
states, to assist them in delivering up Joe Smith, if the governor of Illinois
refused to comply with the requisition of the governor of Missouri. The meeting
determined to avenge with blood any assaults made upon citizens by the
Mormons. It was also resolved to refuse to obey officers elected by the Mormons,
who have complete control of the country, being a numerical majority.'
Missouri Reporter, hi Niks Register, lxv. 70, Sept. 30, 1S43.