History of Utah, 1540-1886 - Brigham Young University

AT CARTHAGE. 177
to depart. On reaching the opposite bank he turned
and gazed upon the beautiful city, the holy city, his
own hallowed creation, the city of Joseph, with its
shining temple, its busy hum of industry, and its
thousand happy homes. And they were his people
who were there, his very own, given to him of God
and he loved them! Were he to leave them now, to
abandon them in this time of danger, they would be
indeed as sheep without a shepherd, stricken, and
scattered, and robbed, and butchered by the destroyer.
No, he could not do it. Better die than to abandon
them thus ! So he recrossed the river, saying to his
brother Hyrum, "Come, let us go together, and let
God determine what we shall do or suffer."
Bidding their families and friends adieu, the two
brothers set out for Carthage. Their hearts were
very heavy. There was dire evil abroad; the air was
oppressive, and the sun shot forth malignant rays.
Once more they returned to their people; once more
they embraced their wives and kissed their children,
as if they knew, alas! that they should never see
them again.
The party reached Carthage about midnight, and
on the following day the troops were formed in
line, and Joseph and Hyrum passed up and down in
company with the governor, who showed them every
respect—either as guests or victims—introducing them
as military officers under the title of general. Present
were the Carthage Greys, who showed signs of
mutiny, hooting at and insulting the prisoners—for
such in fact they were, being committed to jail the
same afternoon until discharged by due course of law.
A few hours later Joseph asked to see the governor,
and next morning Ford went to the prison. ''All this
is illegal," said the former. " It is a purely civil matter,
not a question to be settled by force of arms." "I know
it," said the governor, "but it is better so; I did not
call out this force, but found it assembled; I pledge
you my honor, however, and the faith and honor of
Hist. Utah. 12
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