| 348 In addition to the above irregularities the Reorganization objects to changes in doctrine on several points, only a few of which we have space to mention.
The doctrine of polygamy, as we have already seen, was emphatically denied at Nauvoo, and by other factions. The representatives of the organization under Brigham Young continued to deny its existence among them until the year 1852, when they publicly espoused it and produced a document claimed to bear date of July 12, 1843, purporting to be a revelation given through Joseph Smith, which not only justified the practice of polygamy, but enjoined the receiving of the doctrine under pain of damnation for rejection. What is more astounding than this is, that they have and do actually confess that they were practicing this doctrine at the time they denied it, thus convicting themselves of hypocrisy, lying, and deceit.
The Reorganization has questioned the genuineness and authenticity of this purported revelation, and has demanded the proof, contending that the statements of these self-convicted witnesses are not sufficient to establish their affirmation.
The document was first presented publicly at a special conference at Salt Lake City, Utah, August 29, 1852, when certain strange claims were made concerning its authenticity. When this document was first publicly presented, Brigham Young said:-
"You heard Bro. Pratt state, this morning, that a revelation would be read this afternoon, which was given previous to Joseph's death. It contains a doctrine, a small portion of the world is opposed to; but I can deliver a prophecy upon it. Though that doctrine has not been practiced by the elders, this people have believed in it for years.
"The original copy of this revelation was burnt up; William Clayton was the man who wrote it from the mouth of the Prophet. In the meantime it was in Bishop Whitney's possession. He wished the privilege to copy it, which Brother Joseph granted. Sister Emma burnt the original. The reason I mention this is, because that the people who
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