2 And it is many hundred years after the coming of Christ, that I deliver these records into the hands of my son; and it supposeth me that he will witness the entire destruction of my people.
3 But may God grant that he may survive them, that he may write somewhat concerning them, and somewhat concerning Christ, that perhaps some day it may profit them.
4 And now, I speak somewhat concerning that which I have written: for after I had made an abridgment from the plates of Nephi, down to the reign of this King Benjamin, of whom Amaleki spake,
5 I searched among the records which had been delivered into my hands, and I found these plates, which contained this small account of the prophets, from Jacob, down to the reign of this King Benjamin: and also many of the words of Nephi.
6 And the things which are upon these plates pleasing me, because of the prophecies of the coming of Christ; and my fathers knowing that many of them have been fulfilled;
7 Yea, and I also know that as many things as have been prophesied concerning us down to this day, have been fulfilled; and as many as go beyond this day, must surely come to pass;
8 Wherefore, I chose these things, to finish my record upon them, which remainder of my record I shall take from the plates of Nephi; and I cannot write the hundredth part of the things of my people.
9 But behold, I shall take these plates, which contain these prophesyings and revelations, and put them with the remainder of my record, for they are choice unto me; and I know they will be choice unto my brethren.
10 And I do this for a wise purpose; for thus it whispereth me, according to the workings of the Spirit of the Lord which is in me.
11 And now, I do not know all things; but the Lord knoweth all things which are to come; wherefore, he worketh in me to do according to his will.
12 And my prayer to God, is concerning my brethren, that they may once again come to the knowledge of God; yea, the redemption of Christ; that they may once again be a delightsome people.
