| 203 of himself and John Murdock, but it is too long for insertion here. They baptized many, among whom we notice the historical names of James Emmett and Morris Phelps. Lyman Wight arrived at Independence, August 12, leaving his companion fifty miles behind, sick. Here he procured a horse and went back for him, and brought him in on the horse, while he walked by his side, supporting him. We only mention this as an instance of the zeal, energy, courage, and devotion with which these early defenders of the cause met the hardships and sacrifices incident to the arduous work of establishing the church in the West. Doubtless many if not all of those who went on that perilous mission passed through like experiences. It would be interesting if all had been preserved.
In July, 1831, there was a revelation given at Independence pointing out the spot for the building of the Temple and giving instruction on other important matters. 1
1 1. Hearken, O ye elders of my church, saith the Lord your God, who have assembled yourselves together, according to my commandments, in this land which is the land of Missouri, which is the land which I have appointed and consecrated for the gathering of the saints: wherefore this is the land of promise, and the place for the city of Zion. And thus saith the Lord your God, If you will receive wisdom here is wisdom. Behold, the place which is now called Independence, is the center place, and the spot for the temple is lying westward upon a lot which is not far from the courthouse; wherefore it is wisdom that the land should be purchased by the saints; and also every tract lying westward, even unto the line running directly between Jew and Gentile. And also every tract bordering by the prairies, inasmuch as my disciples are enabled to buy lands. Behold, this is wisdom, that they may obtain it for an everlasting inheritance.
2. And let my servant Sidney Gilbert, stand in the office which I have appointed him, to receive moneys, to be an agent unto the church, to buy land in all the regions round about, inasmuch as can be in righteousness, and as wisdom shall direct.
3. And let my servant Edward Partridge, stand in the office which I have appointed him, to divide the saints their inheritance, even as I have commanded; and also those whom he has appointed to assist him.
4. And again, verily I say unto you, Let my servant Sidney Gilbert plant himself in this place, and establish a store, that he may sell goods without fraud, that he may obtain money to buy lands for the good of the saints, and that he may obtain whatsoever things the disciples may need to plant them in their inheritance. And also let my servant Sidney Gilbert obtain a license (behold, here is wisdom and whoso readeth let him understand), that he may send goods also to the people, even by whom he will as clerks, employed in his service, and thus provide for my saints, that my gospel may be preached unto those who sit in darkness and in the region and shadow of death
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