| 404 Much discussion was had regarding the work in Chicago, some contending that it should be prosecuted as a separate and distinct mission. Others maintained that it should be attached to the Northern Illinois District and subject to local authority the same as other work within the limits of the district. This, with other subjects, was made a subject of special prayer. In answer to prayer a revelation was presented giving light on vexed questions. 2
This was approved by the Quorums of Twelve and Seventy, and then presented to the body, and by it adopted.
The following preambles and resolution were adopted and Joseph Smith and Z. H. Gurley appointed to present it to the Secretary of State:
Whereas, The circular letter of Honorable William M. Evarts, while Secretary of State, asking all foreign governments to prevent the immigration of Mormons (so-called) to this country, as they came to practice crime, being polygamists; and, Whereas, This has conduced to the injury of the body of Latter Day Saints who affirm the original faith under which no such practice is tolerable, and because such distinction has not been had, and we have been confounded with that people whom this letter very properly brands as criminals; therefore be it
Resolved, That we ask the present Secretary of State to correct this error, and place us in our proper light before the world.
The following missions were assigned:
T. W. Smith as counseled by the First Presidency. J. R. Lambert, Chicago, Illinois. M. T. Short, under E. C. Briggs.
2 1. In asking of me, ye did well. I will hasten my work in its time. Ye can not now prosecute missions in many foreign lands, nor is it expedient that the elders of the first quorums be sent out of the land of America until the work of the reorganization of my church be more fully established, and a greater unity of understanding between them be obtained. Nor is it expedient now to further fill up the quorums, except it be the elders, priests, teachers, and deacons; which ye may do, as ye deem wise, by the direction of conference.
2. Continue the mission in Chicago until the April conference, when if it be found expedient it may be left in the charge of the authorities of the Northern Illinois District.
3. It is my will that ye more fully honor and pay heed to the voice and counsel of the traveling ministry in spiritual things; which if ye do not, the office which they hold is not honored in my service, and the good they should do is made void.
4. If they approve themselves as righteous ministers, they shall be blessed; if they be found transgressors, or idle servants, ye shall not uphold them. But be not hasty in withdrawing your support from them, peradventure ye shall injure my work. Even now I am not well pleased with some, but space is granted for repentance and a renewal of diligence. Let no one deceive himself that he shall not account for his stewardship unto me.
JOSEPH SMITH,
By command of the Spirit.
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