3 But may God grant that he may survive them, that he may write somewhat concerning them and somewhat concerning Christ, that perhaps someday it may profit them.
4 And now I speak somewhat concerning that which I have written, For after that I had made an abridgment from the plates of Nephi down to the reign of this King Benjamin of which 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 a 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.
13 And now I, Mormon, proceed to finish out my record which I take from the plates of Nephi, And I make it according to the knowledge and the understanding which God hath given me.