| 368 have been continually sounded in my ears; my footsteps have been dogged by assassins sent forth by spiritual leaders who hypocritically profess the name of Jesus. . . .
"Every other avenue of public communication being closed, I respectfully request your insertion of this, together with the accompanying circular, in the columns of the Vedette Yours, etc.,
"SALT LAKE CITY, March 25, 1864." "E C BRIGGS.
-True Latter Day Saints' Herald, vol. 5, pp. 172, 173.
On December 12, 1863, Elder Briggs related in a letter some of his experiences and observations. The letter gives the reader an insight into the way the missionaries were received and the manner in which those who favored or entertained them were treated:-
"I write to inform you still further of the triumph of our glorious cause in this desert and salt land; I have not been able as yet to procure a single hall, or commodious house to hold meetings in, in all this city, or Territory. Brigham has made his word good, 'that wherever he had any influence not a house should be opened to receive me or my doctrine,' and instead of publishing me and warning the people not to receive me into their houses in an open, bold, becoming manner, as any good principled man would do, if he attacked another's principles, or person (as he said he would publish against me), he has in a secret manner said and written to his followers, 'not to harbor us in any manner, only as beggars, and to treat us with silent contempt, but don't tell them that it is the counsel, and that it came from me.'
"I have been to Ogden City since I wrote to you, and attended meeting there in the tabernacle. After meeting I asked the presiding elder for the privilege of the house for meetings, or some of the halls; but he replied, No; we do not wish to let you have any of our houses to preach in. C. C. Rich, one of the supposed apostles was there, and he said we are satisfied with our religion, and do not wish to be stuffed, neither did he wish to hear any apostates preach; and he reiterated the scandalous reports that Brigham put in circulation against Brother Joseph and his associates.
(page 368) |
