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Source: Church History Vol. 1 Chapter 21 Page: 569 (~1835)

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569 figures, together with some two or more rolls of papyrus covered with hieroglyphic figures and devices. As Mr. Chandler had been told I could translate them, he brought me some of the characters, and I gave him the interpretation, and like a gentleman, he gave me the following certificate:-

"'Kirtland, July 6,1835.

"'This is to make known to all who may be desirous, concerning the knowledge of Mr. Joseph Smith, Jr., in deciphering the ancient Egyptian hieroglyphic characters in my possession, which I have, in many eminent cities, showed to the most learned; and, from the information that I could ever learn, or meet with, I find that of Mr. Joseph Smith, Jr., to correspond in the most minute matters.

"'Michael H. Chandler,

"'Traveling with, and proprietor of,

"'Egyptian mummies'

" . . . Soon after this some of the saints at Kirtland purchased the mummies and papyrus (a description of which will appear hereafter), and I, with W. W. Phelps and O. Cowdery as scribes, commenced the translation of some of the characters or hieroglyphics, and much to our joy found that one of the rolls contained the writings of Abraham, another the writings of Joseph of Egypt, etc., a more full account of which will appear in their place, as I proceed to examine or unfold them. Truly can we say, The Lord is beginning to reveal the abundance of peace and truth....

"'July 17. The Twelve met in conference, agreeably to previous appointment, at Saint Johnsbury, Vermont.

"'Resolved: That this State be the limits of this conference, and include the branches in Littleton, Dolton, and Landaff, in New Hampshire, to be called the "Vermont Conference."

"'The St. Johnsbury branch numbered forty-one members; Danville, twenty-three; Charlton, twenty-one; Jay, eleven; Dalton, fifteen; Landaff, four; Littleton, ten; Andover, Vermont, fifteen; Beneeon, seven; and Lewis, New York, seventeen.

(page 569)

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