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Episodes

15.1—Several accounts of Frederick Loba and his years with the Latter-day Saints are printed

15.2—Dr. Brindley of Leamington gives a lecture in the Wrexham Music Hall

15.3—“Handy Helps to Useful Knowledge” includes chapters about the Latter-day Saints

15.4—Henrietta Polydore is returned to her father in England

15.5—T��� Instructor prints seven long articles entitled “Mormonism”

Salient Events

• 1 January 1858. Daniel Daniels is replaced as mission president and editor of Zion’s Trumpet by Benjamin Evans. Daniels had served five years as a missionary in his native land, the final twenty-one months of which he served in the two aforementioned callings. The following information about further reorganization of the Welsh mission appears on the final page of the 1857 volume of Zion’s Trumpet:

Appointments of Elders to Preside over the Welsh Conferences, from January 1, 1858: Over the mission, President—Benjamin Evans; Counselors, John Davies, David John

Pastor over the Northern Conferences—Thomas Jones

The Monmouthshire and Brecon Conferences will be joined under the name of the former.

The Carmarthen and Merioneth Conferences will be dissolved, and their branches will be aligned as follows:—Carmarthen and Saint Clears in the Llanelli Conference, and Brechfa, Pencader, Llansawel, Dinas Mawddwy and Machynlleth in the Cardiganshire Conference: Harlech and Ffestiniog in the Caernarfon Conference, which from now on will be known by the name of Conway Valley and Anglesey Conference.

We are deprived of the labor of our faithful brother, Joseph Griffiths, in the presiding circle, because of his illness.

The diligent and tireless labors of Pastor J. E. Jones are known to God and his children. More will yet be said about him.[1]

• 19 February 1858. Daniel Daniels leaves Liverpool on board the Empire, reaching New York in just twenty-eight days. Upon arriving at Salt Lake City on 21 June 1858 with other members of the John W. Berry handcart company, Daniels finds the city deserted; due to Johnston’s army advancing, Salt Lake City residents had gone south. A few years later, Daniels settles in Malad City, Idaho, where he dies in 1879.
• 26 May 1858. Potter’s Electric News runs an article entitled “Mormon ‘Experiences’” (borrowed from the 1 May 1858 New York Times) about Frederic Loba from Switzerland, a convert to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. After three years of being “in the midst of a wicked and degraded people,” Loba secretly “escaped” from Salt Lake City and later related his experiences to a reporter for the New York Times. See Episode 15.1.
• 5 June 1858. This date’s Wrexham Advertiser has an announcement for a lecture to be presented on Monday, 21 June, by Dr. Brindley of Leamington in the Wrexham Music Hall on the topic of “‘Mormonism,’ its Follies, its Frauds, and its Vices, with a detailed account of doings at the Salt Lake, as related by those who have escaped therefrom.” Brindley’s lecture a year earlier in Birmingham had caused a mob to attack “a Mormon congregation . . . maltreating both women and men, and destroying property in the interior of the chapel.”[2] There appears to have been no such consequence resulting from this latest lecture, as “there were not many present.”[3] See Episode 15.2.
• 3 July 1858. The Merthyr Telegraph carries an article entitled “Flight of the Mormons.” Beginning just over nine months earlier, with the article “Expedition against the Mormons” in the 26 September 1857 issue of the Usk Observer, the vast majority of the published articles in Wales had to do with the conflict between the United States government and the followers of Brigham Young in Utah. Since only three issues of the 1858 Zion’s Trumpet are extant, it is difficult to get a sense of the impact the Utah War had on the progress of the Latter-day Saints in Wales during this period. However, this Merthyr Telegraph article provides some perspective from critics (see entry later in this chapter).
• 21 August 1858. This issue of the Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian contains the first chapter of a series entitled “M�ǰ����DzԲ�.” A new chapter appears in each of the following six issues, for a total of seven chapters. These chapters are all taken from a source entitled “Handy Helps to Useful Knowledge.” See Episode 15.3.
• 25 September 1858. An article titled “An English Girl Rescued from the Mormons” appears in this issue of the Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald. The girl mentioned is named Henrietta, the twelve-year-old daughter of Henry and Henrietta Polydore of Gloucester. In 1854, the girl’s mother had taken her to Salt Lake City without her father’s permission. Henry Polydore then enlisted the help of the government of Great Britain and eventually succeeded in having his daughter brought back to his home in Gloucester in 1858. See Episode 15.4.
• December 1858. The Instructor prints a lengthy article entitled “M�ǰ����DzԾ�����.” Between January and September 1859, six additional articles under the same title appear in this periodical. See Episode 15.5.

Commentary

1858: January, Seren Gomer (Star of Gomer), p. 44 (110 words).

A brief notice about the testimony of Brigham Young in which he testified against the authority of the government to send soldiers to the Utah Territory.

1858: 2 January, North Wales Chronicle, p. 6 (1,035 words). “The Americans and the Mormons.”

A report of Brigham Young’s defiance of the US army that was advancing to take control of Salt Lake City. The report includes a letter from the wife of one of the Latter-day Saint soldiers in which she praises the Saints’ efforts to “never let the Gentiles come into the valleys.”

1858: 6 January, Potter’s Electric News, p. 4 (920 words). “The City of the Mormons.”

An abbreviated version of a much longer article published on 28 November 1857 in the Star of Wales (see previous chapter).

1858: 9 January, North Wales Chronicle, p. 3 (93 words).

A weekly mail route is established between Washington and the troops serving in Utah.

1858: 9 January, North Wales Chronicle, p. 6 (920 words). “The City of the Mormons.”

Another abbreviated version of a much longer article published on 28 November 1857 in the Star of Wales (see previous chapter).

1858: 9 January, Wrexham Advertiser, p. 2 (390 words). “The Mormon Hegira.”

Colonel Alexander is camped 143 miles from Salt Lake City until spring. The Latter-day Saints may relocate to Sonora, the most northwest province of Mexico.

1858: 9 January, North Wales Chronicle, p. 3 (93 words).

Further “important arrangements are expected to be made concerning the Mormon expedition.” Even the British government is cooperating:

The government is officially advised of the arrival in New York of two boxes of firearms, a present from the British Government in return for the arms sent thither in August last.

1858: 16 January, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 5 (32 words).

Dr. Mackay, who is now in America, has a new work in the press upon the Mormons—their present Condition and Future Prospects. Very interesting letters from him arrive by every mail.

1858: 16 January, Merthyr Telegraph, p. 4 (32 words).

The same article published on 16 January 1858 in the Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian (see previous entry).

1858: 16 January, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 7 (340 words). “Brigham Young and Ignatius Loyola—A Curious Parallel.”

The writer shows “points of resemblance between Young and Loyola as developed in their respective systems” and reveals some of the “Mysteries of Mormonism,” claiming that in secret ceremonies that all Latter-day Saints are required to swear “eternal enmity to the United States of North America.”

1858: 16 January, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 4 (160 words).

President Buchannan is “doing his best to extirpate this noxious excrescence from the American Constitution.”

1858: 16 January, Usk Observer, p. 2 (23 words).

It is estimated that as many as twenty-seven thousand Mormons have emigrated from Europe to the United States within the past sixteen years.

1858: 23 January, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 4 (32 words).

With respect to the Mormons the House of Representatives have declared the State of Utah to be in rebellion, and it is proposed to expel Dr. Bernhisel, the delegate, from his seat.

1858: 30 January, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 3 (225 words).

An update on the Utah expedition.

1858: 30 January, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 3 (140 words).

News of the “fierce civil war raging in Kansas,” plus an observation that “the Mormons are too strong to be easily put down.”

1858: 30 January, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, p. 10 (34 words).

Reinforcements were under orders for Utah, as the Mormons were determined on resisting to the utmost; a late telegram from St. Louis, however, says they were preparing to leave Utah for a British territory.

1858: 30 January, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 4 (34 words).

The same article as in the Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald for 30 January 1858 (see previous entry).

1858: 30 January, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 5 (315 words). “The Mormons.”

Contains “further information respecting the Utah expedition.”

1858: February, Seren Gomer (Star of Gomer), p. 93 (30 words).

The House of Representatives, Washington, has indicated Utah as revolutionaries and has set up a committee to investigate the legality of their representative to take his seat in Congress.

1858: February, Y Dysgedydd (The Instructor), p. 2 (105 words). “The Mormons.”

A brief notice about “the war that has been started by the Mormons in Utah”:

The President of the United States has indicated in his latest proclamation that he is determined to put down the war that has been started by the Mormons in Utah: “This is the first war,” he said, “that has begun in our midst, and mankind itself is asking us to put it down in such a manner that it will be the last. To take it lightly would be to encourage it and make it disastrous. We should go there with such great force as to convince this misled people that opposition would be vain, and by so doing to prevent the spilling of blood.”

This armed confrontation between the settlers in Utah and the armed forces of the United States was known as the “Utah War.” It lasted from May 1857 to July 1858, but there was no open conflict between the two sides.

1858: 6 February, North Wales Chronicle, p. 6 (1,125 words). “The American Expedition against the Mormons.”

More details of the Utah expedition. A New York correspondent writes:

I counted repeatedly five, and once seven horses, oxen, and mules lying dead from cold or starvation within the space of 100 yards. There has been such a prodigious loss of stock by theft, cold, and hunger, that since November 7th we have not advanced on the average two miles a day.

The writer also mentions a “stout, honest-faced Englishman” by the name of Wadsworth, who, alongside “an Englishwoman of 45” and “a pretty girl of 17,” was converted to Mormonism in 1855 by a nephew of Brigham Young. The man then “set sail, with an adopted son, for the holy city in May 1856 with 3,000 dollars of gold in pocket.” Before they crossed the Utah line, “every penny had disappeared before church assessments and the expenses of the journey.”

1858: 6 February, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 4 (1,125 words). “The Mormons.”

The abbreviated version of the same article in the North Wales Chronicle for 6 February 1858 (see previous entry).

1858: 6 February, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 7 (185 words). “Proposed Migration of Mormons to British Territory.”

The article includes the following prediction:

The United States’ troops will, in all probability, find the Salt Lake City a desert, and all the Mormon rebels across the frontier, under the protection of that British flag which they have threatened to hoist as a defiance to the Federal Government.

1858: 6 February, North Wales Chronicle, p. 7 (1,095 words). “The United States.”

More details about the Utah War, with this closing statement:

A subsequent arrival, however, from New York, brings rumors of an expected evacuation of the country. Brigham Young and his followers, it is said, contemplate retiring into the British territories. We do not believe, however, that they will take such a step without a struggle.

1858: 6 February, Wrexham Advertiser, p. 3 (490 words). “The Mormons’ New Home.”

Further discussion as to the future location of the Latter-day Saints with a prediction they will re-locate to “the British territory along the Columbia.”

1858: 6 February, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, p. 9 (180 words). “A�����������.”

The first half of the same article as in the Wrexham Advertiser for 6 February 1858 (see previous entry).

1858: 6 February, Monmouthshire Beacon, pp. 4–5 (185 words).

The report of a possible agreement between the Latter-day Saints and the Cheyenne and Comanche Indians to fight against the advancing United States troops.

1858: 13 February, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 5 (540 words). “Mormon Newspapers.”

The Latter-day Saints are now using Old Testament prophecies to describe their current situation. The writer makes the following prediction:

It seems probable that Brigham Young will maintain a bold front until it becomes necessary to meet the troops in the field. If an irresistible force is brought against him, he may not improbably lead his followers in a second migration.

1858: 20 February, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, p. 9, Item 1 (20 words). “A�����������.”

It is reported that General Scott will certainly proceed to California, to organize an expedition against the Mormons.

1858: 20 February, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, p. 9, Item 2 (51 words).

Advices from California represent the feeling against the Mormons as very strong in all sections of the state, and thousands of volunteers are in readiness to march against the saints, as soon as a requisition should be made for troops by the President. A number of companies have already been formed.

1858: 20 February, North Wales Chronicle, p. 8 (125 words).

There is some prospect of the dispute with the Mormons being accommodated. A Dr. Bernhisel is at Washington, as the representative of Brigham Young; and he has offered, on the part of his principal, to relinquish the territory of the Salt Lake, and evacuate it with his people, “provided the Government of the United States will purchase, at a fair valuation, the Salt Lake City improvements.” It is said, that President Buchanan has given a favorable reply to this proposition; and, if finally adopted, it is thought that the city will be made a grand military station, or depot, for the United States troops stationed in the “extreme west.” The Mormons will move, it is thought, to the Northwest, entering the British territories.

1858: 20 February, Usk Observer, p. 3 (140 words).

This article has information about the proposition made by Dr. Bernhisel for the United States to purchase “the Mormon property in Utah,” as well as a report on the good condition of the troops, with new recruits and “an abundant supply of beef” recently obtained.

1858: 27 February, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, p. 20, Item 1 (32 words).

We know an old lady, who, when she alludes to the leader of the Mormons, always calls him—either unintentionally, or else by a curious jumble of ideas—‘Mr. Bigamy Young.’—Punch.

1858: 27 February, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, p. 20, Item 2 (135 words). “The Mormons.”

An official statement published this year by the United States government gives the following statistics of Mormonism: The Mormons have about ninety-five missionaries in Europe, and an equal number in Asia, Africa, and the Pacific Islands, besides large numbers of native elders in the various fields of labor, and a considerable number scattered throughout the United States and British America. They have one newspaper in Salt Lake City, issuing 4000 copies weekly; one in Liverpool issuing 22,000 weekly; one in Swansea, South Wales; one in Copenhagen, in the Danish language, one in Australia; one in India; and one in Switzerland, in the French language. The Book of Mormon has been translated and published in the Welsh, Danish, French, German, and Italian languages. The Mormons claim 280,000 members of their church scattered over the world.

1858: March, Y Greal (The Grail), p. 72 (180 words). “The United States.”

In his opening sentence, the writer states the current relationship between the United States government and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints:

The United States intends to give a thrashing to the Mormons at the beginning of summer for their lawlessness and their impudence, and Brigham Young has decided to resist with all his might.

The writer then presents various statistics, such as the number of Latter-day Saint missionaries in various parts of the world, the circulation of their newspapers in Salt Lake City and Liverpool, and the translation of the Book of Mormon in various languages. He then gives his reason for presenting this information:

We mention this for the purpose of putting our readers on their guard against this frightful plague.

1858: March, Y Cyfaill o’r Hen Wlad yn America (Friend of the Old Country in America), p. 106 (33 words). “Mormonism in Gloucester.”

It seems that Mormonism is doing frightful damage to the morals of some of the inhabitants. And so it does in several other places as well. It is too wicked to defend.

1858: 6 March, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, p. 6 (87 words). “Elopement of a Married Lady with a Mormon.”

Information has been received, that Mrs. Welch, hostess of the Rose and Crown Inn, at Ampthill, Bedfordshire, has eloped from her husband, taking with her considerable property, in company with a draper named Rogers, a Latter-day Saint, who, having converted Mrs. Welch to Mormonism had induced her to abandon her husband and fly with him to Utah. Mrs. Welsh has left four children behind her, and Mr. Welch offers £30 to anyone who brings her back to Ampthill.

1858: 6 March, North Wales Chronicle, p. 5 (87 words). “Elopement of a Married Lady with a Mormon.”

The same article as appears in the Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald for 6 March 1858 (see previous entry).

1858: 6 March, North Wales Chronicle, p. 6 (645 words). “The Mormon Expedition.”

A letter from Colonel Johnston to a friend in Kentucky about his current circumstances. He reports that Brigham Young had sent him eight hundred pounds of salt as a present but that he had returned the salt to Brigham Young with the following message:

That Brigham Young and his associates are in rebellion against the Government; that until they return to their allegiance and obey the laws, I will accept no favor or courtesy from them, nor hold any correspondence with them.

1858: 6 March, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, p. 9 (40 words).

The Mormon news is interesting, but unreliable. There was a rumor of a battle between the United States troops and the saints, but it was not believed. A report that five American citizens had been killed by the Mormons.

1858: 6 March, Usk Observer, p. 2 (40 words).

The same article as in the Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald for 6 March 1858 (see previous entry).

1858: 6 March, Merthyr Telegraph, p. 3 (40 words).

The same article as in the Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald for 6 March 1858 (see previous entry).

1858: 6 March, Usk Observer, p. 4 (765 words).

A very negative report written by Lieutenant-Colonel Cook of the Utah Expedition. Among other things, he provides details about the impact of the cold temperatures and the loss of mules.

1858: 13 March, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 5 (160 words).

More information about the troops of the Utah Expedition who were “earnestly wishing to make a decent on Salt Lake City.”

1858: 20 March, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, p. 9 (220 words).

The latest news “from Salt Lake City, and from the camp.” Regarding Brigham Young’s message to the Utah Legislature, the writer reports:

Having received no official notification of the intention of the Government to supersede him in the gubernatorial office, nor of the dispatch of troops to Utah, Young affects to regard the army at Fort Bridger and the civil authorities there as an organized mob, against which he has already fulminated a proclamation to disperse.

1858: 20 March, Merthyr Telegraph, p. 4 (220 words).

The same article as in the Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald for 20 March 1858 (see previous entry).

1858: 27 March, Usk Observer, p. 2 (660 words). “The War with the Mormons.”

Additional details about the United States troops as they neared Salt Lake City for the conflict.

1858: 27 March, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, p. 10 (100 words).

Our Washington dispatch states that Dr. Bernhisel, the Mormon delegate in Congress, has recently received letters from Brigham Young in which he predicts the annihilation of the United States troops now in Utah, unless they are recalled by the government. He also suggests the appointment of a commission to proceed to Utah, to inquire into the condition of affairs there. It is not in the least degree probable that the President will listen to overtures of this character, coming from persons in rebellion against the federal authorities, and against whom an indictment for treason is pending. New York Herald.

1858: 27 March, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 8 (32 words).

The Mormons under Brigham Young are preparing to fight to the last, and are said to have invented some infernal projectiles of the most deadly character to be thrown as hand grenades.

1858: April, Y Cyfaill o’r Hen Wlad yn America (Friend of the Old Country in America), p. 155 (170 words). “U�ٲ���.”

This brief article begins with the following comment about the Utah War:

The adulterous Mormons are clinging to their profession of faith, and they have decided not to bow to the laws of the Union, even if they are forced to lose their country or lose their lives in the battle for the Mormon faith.

The writer then quotes from a letter that a Latter-day Saint wrote from Utah to his brother in New York, explaining why he and his coreligionists were willing to stand up to the United States Army.

Because we believe that Mormonism is the gospel of Jesus Christ, who shows the way to eternal life; and despite the trampling and persecution that it has suffered, it is more powerful and noble than ever.

1858: April, Y Cyfaill o’r Hen Wlad yn America (Friend of the Old Country in America), pp. 155–56 (120 words). “General Johnston.”

After reporting on the numerous soldiers going toward Utah “with the intention of subduing the war of the Mormons,” the writer concludes:

The most obvious thing is that the Saints will retreat to some other place instead of fighting or surrendering.

1858: April, Seren Gomer (Star of Gomer), p. 187 (93 words).

A few lines to the effect that Brigham Young and others have been accused as “persons guilty of high treason.”

1858: 3 April, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, p. 3 (125 words).

A quote from a discussion of various religions:

So with regard to Mormonism (which erroneous system is comparatively of recent date). What is it but a gigantic lie, an invention of falsehood? There is not a part of it that will bear the light of God’s truth. It is from beginning to end a fabrication of falsehood and wickedness, framed for speculation, in order that its abominable and lewd leaders may feast on the spoil of their dupes. What is the Book of Mormon but a lie, a mixture of truth and nonsense, which has been presumptuously and blasphemously palmed off as a divine revelation to Joe Smith, a man utterly destitute of moral character, and addicted to almost every vice. The impostor’s mark is legible in every page of this publication.

1858: 3 April, Usk Observer, p. 4 (33 words).

The advices from Utah show the Mormons were as obstinate and rampant for war as ever. The Utah legislature had sent a petition to Congress, calling on that body to redress their wrongs.

1858: 10 April, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 5 (255 words).

The war with the Mormons is assuming serious proportions. . . . The address from the Legislative Assembly of the Mormons to the Senate at Washington, extracts from which we give in another part of our impression, is about the most arrant piece of bombast and impudence that can be conceived.

Regarding the beliefs of the Latter-day Saints, the writer declares:

Mormonism in sooth lives in a sensual atmosphere of its own, it is a creature not of the feelings but the passions, and when these are let loose, men lose the attributes of humanity and become demons.

1858: 10 April, Merthyr Telegraph, p. 2 (123 words). “Mormons in British Territory.”

Advices from St. Louis state that Father Desmil, a Catholic missionary, who has spent many years among the Indian tribes, asserts that on another slope of the Rocky Mountains there is a perfectly practicable and easy route north from Salt Lake to the British possessions. Father Desmil states that he has traveled the route several times with light wagons. He gives it as his opinion that if the Mormons leave their present location, they will proceed northward to New Caledonia, British America, and settle at the base of the Portage Mountains, near the 48th parallel. The route is described in detail. The country and climate are stated to eminently superior in every respect to that of Utah. Canadian News.

1858: 10 April, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, p. 9 (70 words).

We have later news from Utah. A mail from Fort Independence was three months in reaching the United States camp, and then half despoiled of its contents. A Mormon prisoner had escaped, and it was feared that there were traitors in the camp. An express is said to have reached Leavenworth, from the camp of Colonel Johnston, requesting that supplies of ammunition and more men be sent him immediately.

1858: 17 April, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, pp. 8–9 (73 words).

Private letters from Colonel Johnston, at Camp Scott, to the 5th ult., have been received. He describes the Mormons as manifesting a decided intention to set up an independent government of their own, and expresses an earnest hope that supplies will be forwarded to him at as early a day as practicable. A large train with supplies, and two regiments of Infantry and two of Cavalry, have already left Fort Leavenworth for Utah.

1858: 17 April, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 3 (75 words).

Private letters from Colonel Johnston, at Camp Scott, Utah, to the 5th of February, have been received. He describes the Mormons as manifesting a decided intention to set up an independent government of their own, and expresses an earnest hope that supplies will be forwarded to him at as early a day as possible. A large train with supplies, and two regiments of infantry and two of cavalry, have already left Fort Leavenworth for Utah.

1858: 24 April, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, pp. 3–4 (755 words). “M�ǰ����DzԲ�.”

A very negative letter dated 1 February 1858 from a young woman, Elizabeth Cotton. Cotton had left England with her grandmother, Mary Hutchinson, on the Horizon in 1856 and traveled to Utah as part of the Hunt Wagon Company. Her grandmother died at Martin’s Cove, but Mary was rescued and arrived in Salt Lake City. In addition to the hardships of crossing the plains, Cotton also had very negative experiences in Utah. Her main complaint was about polygamy:

On arriving at the Salt Lake, I was not a little surprised to see the men running after the women and asking them if they were married, but I have not got married yet, and I do not intend.

Cotton wrote this letter while on her way East after leaving Salt Lake City. She got as far as Putnam, Indiana, where she married William Secrest Eckels and had four children. She died in 1880 at age 39.

1858: 24 April, Merthyr Telegraph, p. 2 (320 words). “Mormon Trick.”

The writer reports (in Welsh, though the Telegraph was an English publication) some bad behavior on the part of a Latter-day Saint who mistreated a shepherd he had in his employ. While the shepherd was in bed with smallpox, his employer insisted that he move some sheep right away. He obeyed and died soon after. The writer suggests that the employer had caused the shepherd’s death. He ends his letter with a question:

I would like to know from one of the Mormon clan whether behavior of that sort is in accordance with Christian principles.

He also explains in a postscript the reason he had submitted the letter in Welsh:

The reason for writing these lines in Welsh is because I believe that there are as many subscribers to the Telegraph who are as proficient in Welsh as they are in English.

1858: May, Seren Gomer (Star of Gomer), p. 234 (14 words).

The Mormons, it is reported, have decided to strive to establish their own government.

1858: May, Y Drysorfa (The Treasury), p. 176 (120 words).

The same article as in the Friend of the Old Country in America, April 1858 (see previous entry).

1858: 1 May, Merthyr Telegraph, p. 4 (31 words).

Private letters from officers of the army at Walla Walla, Columbia River, say that the Mormon settlements are being broken up in that region, and the Mormons leaving for Salt Lake.

1858: 1 May, Wrexham Advertiser, p. 3 (31 words).

The same article as in the Merthyr Telegraph for 1 May 1858 (see previous entry).

1858: 1 May, North Wales Chronicle, p. 6 (680 words). “The United States Expedition against the Mormons.”

A letter dated March 1, 1856, from a soldier who was part of the Utah Expedition. He reports an improvement in the weather, the availability of beef for the troops, and assures the recipient of Colonel Johnston’s determination to engage in battle to subdue the residents of Salt Lake City if necessary.

1858: 8 May, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 7 (755 words). “A Picture of Life amongst the Mormons.”

This is the same article as in the Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald for 24 April 1858 (see previous entry).

1858: 8 May, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, p. 9 (134 words).

The news from Salt Lake City as of 6 February was that the people there were preparing “to attack the United States forces and intercept their supplies.” Plans were also underway to deliver a huge shipment of supplies to Salt Lake City for the troops.

1858: 15 May, North Wales Chronicle, p. 2 (585 words). “The Mormon Settlements.”

A St. Louis correspondent of the New York Herald had recently visited Nauvoo. He reports:

Nauvoo is a dull slumbering place, at present inhabited by an Icarian colony of Philosopher Greeley’s pet friends, the French Fourierites. A more beggarly, God-forsaken place I have scarcely ever seen in this country.

He had met Joseph Smith’s widow, along with “young Joe Smith [III], who should by right have been at the head of the Mormons.” He added:

I slept in the prophet’s chamber, where he was often in the habit of receiving visits from supernatural strangers.

He also describes the current state of the temple:

A portion of the ruins of the stately temple are still standing, ornamented with strange devices of men in the moon, rising suns and stars. It was built said the prophet, from a plan furnished from above. Without intending irreverence, I should say that the celestial architects are a most tasteless set, or else humbugged Joseph.

Episode 15.1

Start: Several accounts are printed of Frederick Loba and his years with the Latter-day Saints

1858: 26 May, Potter’s Electric News, p. 4 (1,070 words). “Mormon ‘Experiences.’”

Taken from the 1 May 1858 issue of the New York Times, this article focuses on Frederick Loba, a Swiss convert to The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Being “of a strong metaphysical turn of mind,” Loba had felt some years earlier “rather uneasy with respect to sacred things and a future existence.” Upon speaking with the Latter-day Saint missionaries, he was convinced that he had found the true religion. However, disillusionment began when he arrived in St. Louis with his family in December 1853. The feeling grew even stronger when Loba spent some time with Brigham Young, who he hoped would have “all the characteristics and virtues befitting a man of God.” The writer describes Loba’s “escape from Mormonism” following more than three years in Utah:

On the 1st of April, 1857, he resolved to escape with his wife only, leaving his eight children in the care of his mother-in-law and her brother; and after many hardships, mountain adventures, and risks by flood and field the unhappy couple at length reached Green River, and were kindly received by the Snake Indians and some Canadian traders there encamped. Brigham Young had started 32 horsemen on Loba’s track to recapture him, but after incredible exertions to do so they were forced to return. Loba arrived at Kickapoo last December, after several attacks of fever, in a state of perfect destitution. His relatives and children have rejoined him.

The writer quotes Loba’s reflections on his time in Utah:

This is a very brief outline of what I and mine have suffered from Mormonism. Every educated man will realize much more readily than I can describe it how keen has been my mental suffering amid the degraded, uncultivated, and besotted followers of Brigham Young. Could all that be obliterated from the pages of my memory, how lightly should I esteem the physical privations and sufferings of the last few years. But nothing remains to me but regret for the past, and joy that I have escaped the trammels of the Salt Lake, and that the remnant of my family are spared the contamination and ruin, which a life among “the Saints” would inevitably involve.

1858: 29 May, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 7 (1,070 words). “Mormon ‘Experiences.’”

The same article as in Potter’s Electric News for 26 May 1858 (see previous entry).

1858: 29 May, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 2 (1,070 words). “Mormon Moralities.”

The same article as in Potter’s Electric News for 26 May 1858 (see previous entry).

1859: July, Y Dysgedydd (The Instructor), p. 270–72 (1,070 words). “M�ǰ����DzԾ�����.”

Just over a third of this article is devoted to the story of Frederick Loba, taken also from the New York Times (see previous entry).

End: Several accounts are printed of Frederick Loba and his years with the Latter-day Saints

1858: 29 May, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 3 (530 words). “The Mormons in America.”

The 20 February 1858 report of Lieutenant Colonel Reichenau about a conflict with the Utah army near Echo Canyon.

1858: 29 May, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 4 (80 words).

If any of our readers have not had enough exposure already of the gross immorality of the Mormon imposture, we beg to refer them to a paragraph on this subject in another column, giving a faithful history of the degrading mode of the inner life of Mormonism. It is written perhaps warmly by one who fortunately has escaped those horrors, but bears the impress of truth, and we inset it at once as a fearful revelation and an instructive warning.

1858: 29 May, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 3 (31 words).

Advices from St. Louis report the arrival of three men direct from Camp Scott. The Mormons were preparing to harass the troops. The weather and roads were unfavorable for their progress.

1858: June, Y Cenhadwr Americanaidd (The American Messenger), p. 236 (230 words). “From Utah.”

The writer reports:

We have received the pleasing news from Utah that the Mormons have decided to put their weapons of rebellion down and to bow to the authority of the government of the United States.

He explains that the chief negotiator of peace was General Thomas L. Kane.

Episode 15.2

Start: Dr. Brindley of Leamington gives a lecture in the Wrexham Music Hall

1858: 5 June, Wrexham Advertiser, p. 1 (120 words).

Music-Hall, Wrexham.

Dr. Brindley, of Leamington, has accepted an invitation from a Committee of Gentlemen in Wrexham to deliver Two Lectures, In the Music Hall, Wrexham, as under:

Monday, June 21st, “Mormonism,” its Follies, its Frauds, and its Vices, with a detailed account of doings at the Salt Lake, as related by those who have escaped therefrom.

Tuesday, June 22nd, illustrated by a very large Map and Water-color Drawings, produced expressly for this Lecture—The Travels of St. Paul, with an account of the Countries and People amongst whom he traveled.

Questions may be asked or Discussion entered into at the close of each Lecture. Admission, Front Seats 1s, Back Do. 6d. To commence at half-past 7 o’clock each evening.

1858: 12 June, Wrexham Advertiser, p. 1 (120 words).

The same advertisement as in the Wrexham Advertiser for 5 June 1858 (see previous entry).

1858: 19 June, Wrexham Advertiser, p. 1 (120 words).

The same advertisement as in the Wrexham Advertiser for 5 June 1858 (see previous entry).

1858: 26 June, Wrexham Advertiser, p. 4 (680 words). “Lecture on Mormonism.”

The writer describes the welcome given to Dr. Brindley:

The lecturer was received with loud cheers, and in an able and eloquent discourse, advanced a great deal of new and interesting information in connection with Mormonism. He gave a rapid but clear exposition of its follies, frauds, and vices, with a detailed account of the doings at Salt Lake, as related to the lecturer himself by persons escaped therefrom.

After speaking about the Book of Mormon and the practice of plural marriage, Brindley...

gave the audience a specimen of the miracles with which their leaders sought to dupe the people, which excited a good deal of laughter. . . . He gave a striking outline of the dangers, privations, and difficulties they had to pass through in going to the Salt Lake. Out of the last batch which went out (2,000) only 230 arrived at their journey’s end alive.

Brindley also predicted that “the American soldiers would soon displace them from the Salt Lake.” The writer concludes:

The lecturer was loudly cheered throughout, and concluded a very instructive though somewhat melancholy lecture, amid great applause. We are sorry to add, there were not many present.

End: Dr. Brindley of Leamington gives a lecture in the Wrexham Music Hall

1858: 5 June, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, p. 9 (710 words).

After presenting a brief analysis of the Utah War and an outline of the history of the Latter-day Saints, the writer concludes:

As matters stand, our arms have acquired no new luster, and the Mormon leaders have derived fresh eclat for their imposture, from this new instance of Gentile persecution. It would be hard to devise a worse mode of extirpating a disgusting heresy than marching against it with a division of infantry.

1858: 5 June, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 3 (31 words).

From Utah we learn that the United States Commissioners had proceeded to Salt Lake City to confer with the Mormons who were apparently ready to receive them in a friendly spirit.

1858: 5 June, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 4 (39 words).

The Mormon campaign seems likely to come to a very strange and abrupt conclusion. We hear that Brigham Young has abdicated his ruling functions, fled from Utah, and that delegates have met General Cumming to arrange terms of peace.

1858: 12 June, Merthyr Telegraph, p. 3 (575 words). “End of the Mormon War.”

In this article taken from the New York Tribune, the writer declares: “The Utah war is ended.” He expresses his opinion as to what should be done at this point:

If they are now willing to leave the country why should they be obstructed or harassed? If they are willing to leave, let them depart in peace.

He also credits Colonel Thomas L. Kane for facilitating this peaceful outcome:

When the full truth becomes known we believe it will be found that great credit is due to Colonel Thomas L. Kane for this auspicious termination of the Mormon broil. He went out to Utah with the consent, indeed, of the President, but prompted by his own generous heart, animated by an earnest desire to prevent a needless, and therefore a highly culpable, effusion of human blood.

1858: 12 June, Wrexham Advertiser, p. 3 (575 words).

The same article as appeared in the Merthyr Telegraph for 12 June 1858 (see previous entry).

1858: 12 June, Monmouthshire Beacon, pp. 4–5 (180 words).

The writer theorizes about the future of the Utah residents:

It is supposed that the Mormons will attempt to establish a settlement in the Mexican territory, where they will perhaps be able to set the weak government of that country at defiance.

He also expresses his sympathy for the women and children:

In many points of view, it is melancholy to reflect on the hardships which must be incurred by the women and children in this flight from the country which they had so fertilized and improved to some place they know not whither.

1858: 12 June, Wrexham Advertiser, p. 2 (75 words).

The widow of Joe Smith, the Mormon, still resides at Nauvoo, but she cares nothing for the saints, and has married a tavern keeper, who thinks all prophets humbugs. Young Joe, who should by right have been the head of the Mormons, is a stout gawky of 22, who hates Brigham Young and curses the Salt Lakers. Nauvoo was once a place of 20,000 inhabitants, but is now a place of ruins. Washington Union.

1858: 19 June, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, p. 10 (75 words).

The same article as appeared in the Wrexham Advertiser for 12 June 1858 (see previous entry).

1858: 19 June, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, p. 9 (39 words).

Dates from Utah are to the 6th of May. The Mormons had expelled Governor Cumming, the regularly appointed executive officer of the territory, from the settlement, and had determined to resist the troops sent against them to the last.

1858: 19 June, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 4 (230 words).

The writer is confused at the outcome of the Utah War:

Mormonism seems likely to give more trouble than was expected in its repression. For the life of us we cannot make out from the last accounts whether, Brigham Young has fled from Utah or not, but one thing appears certain, that the Mormons are determined to make a stand now to the last, and that even by force of arms. . . . America is a great republic, it is true, but slavery and Mormonism are deadly diseases at its core.

1858: 26 June, North Wales Chronicle, p. 2 (26 words).

Governor Cumming had been installed as Governor of the Mormon Territory, and was well received. The settlements had been broken up, and the inhabitants moving south.

1858: 26 June, Usk Observer, p. 3 (47 words).

It is not officially confirmed that the Mormons expelled Governor Cumming, but it is said to be derived from unquestionable authority. It was expected the army would move towards the Salt Lake about the end of May. The troops were said to be living on mule meat.

1858: 26 June, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 4 (162 words).

According to the New York Daily Times, “the telegraphic dispatches received from day to day, purporting to give us news from Utah, are of so contradictory a character as to render it impossible to fix upon anything as reliable.”

1858: 26 June, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 3 (85 words).

It was stated positively that Governor Cumming has not been driven from Salt Lake City, and that the intentions of the Mormons were not belligerent; but, on the contrary, that the Governor had been well received; that Brigham was perfectly willing to transfer all authority to him, and that the Mormons had given up all idea of fighting and had gone to work on their farms. The report that Captain Marcy’s train had been cut off is contradicted, nothing whatever having been heard from him.

1858: July, Y Cenhadwr Americanaidd (The American Messenger), p. 271 (290 words).

Three fairly brief paragraphs about “the Mormon war.” The first, entitled “The Mormon War at an End,” simply indicates that “this people had bowed to the authority of Governor Cumming,” who had been sent by President Buchanan to establish peace and order once again in Utah.

The second paragraph, “Where Will They Go?” reports that the Latter-day Saints were “going toward the South by the thousands, taking their possessions with them.” The New York Herald is cited as a reference for this plan:

The plan in sight is to populate that country as soon as is possible and make it into a slave state and bring it into the Union. It is said that there is likely some agreement drawn up for doing so between the leaders of the slave masters and the Mormon elders.

And the third paragraph—“The Latest from Utah”—reports that the situation in Utah is normalizing and that “trade will soon be opened throughout the valley of the territory to supply the army.”

1858: July, Seren Gomer (Star of Gomer), p. 324 (130 words).

Just a few lines to the effect that the news regarding the conflict between Utah and the United States government is “unclear.”

1858: 3 July, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, p. 9 (88 words).

Advices from Washington state that General Scott had received dispatches from Utah of five days’ later day than those transmitted by Governor Cumming. They represent that the governor had been received by the Mormons; that after they had removed their women and children from Salt Lake City the men returned, strengthened their defensive positions, and assumed a threatening attitude. The news was regarded as reliable. The soldiers under General Johnston were on short allowance of food. Capt. Marcy was within six days of Camp Scott at last accounts.

1858: 3 July, Merthyr Telegraph, p. 2 (660 words). “Flight of the Mormons.”

The writer reflects on the time when the Latter-day Saints constituted a significant presence in Merthyr Tydfil and the surrounding area:

A few years ago, this town and the surrounding districts were the scene of Mormon labor. Here the converted tailor or shoemaker gathered a crowd around him in the evening, and on the Sabbath day; a crowd of workmen eager to learn a little of the mysteries of Mormonism, and be enlightened on the strange doctrines those strange and misguided men the Saints professed and practiced. On heaps of refuse, and by the banks of the slow rolling Taff, in outhouses, and on balks of timber, the apostles stood, and declaimed in strong language against existing beliefs, against the Christian faith, and the worthy ministers of our churches and chapels. Now and then the cudgels were taken up against them by a zealous Christian, knotty points would be argued, texts quoted, and strong truths hurled at them from the everlasting Word; but in despite of all the persuasion of speakers and writers, the drain from our places of worship continued, and daily, for a length of time, there was a continual secession from Christianity to Mormonism.

The writer describes this “continual secession:”

The servant girl, ignorant of the world and the deception therein; the honest miner and collier, who for years had trudged to their humble chapels each day of rest—their wives and their daughters, led by the parent, and not from the force of reason; men of the lowest grade and men of property; with a sprinkling of individuals, ambitious to become elders and men of note, now swayed by belief in the inferiority of Mormon doctrines, forsook, one and all, the old creed, and became members of the worst society ever enrolled—forsook their homes, their friends, the scenes of their nativity, and traveled away with hopeful hearts to the promised land in far-away Utah.

The writer tells of the unfortunate consequences of some of the Welsh who left their native land to travel to the “promised land” in Utah:

It was a sad sight to observe such delusion, and that too in the age of steam engines, and at a time when the Press disseminated knowledge broadly and cheaply over the land. They went. Many of our readers have friends or parents who left hither, and never reached their goal. Many more yet confess that relatives of their own still belong to the notorious confederacy against morality and religion; but few have need now to lament that the influence, the seduction of Mormonism, continues. It has become a dead letter. The eyes of our people are open to the deception, and however skillful the trap may be baited, there is no fear that Merthyr Tydfil will continue to supply frail and simple victims.

1858: 3 July, Merthyr Telegraph, p. 3 (73 words).

The news from Utah is still conflicting. A dispatch from Washington states that General Scott had received dispatches from Utah of five days’ later date than those transmitted by Governor Cumming. They represent that Governor Cumming had been deceived by the Mormons: that after they had removed their women and children from Salt Lake City, the men returned, strengthened their defensive position, and assumed a threatening attitude. This news was regarded as reliable.

1858: 3 July, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 5 (630 words). “The Mormon Difficulty.”

A description of the peaceful transition of power in Utah to Governor Cummings.

1858: 3 July, North Wales Chronicle, p. 3 (1,090 words). “Governor Cumming at the Great Salt Lake.”

In a letter to General Cass, the Secretary of the United States, Governor Cumming details his peaceful reception in Utah.

1858: 3 July, North Wales Chronicle, p. 6 (180 words). “The Mormon Expedition—The Ruse of the ‘Latter-day Saints’—The American Army Starving on its Way.”

According to the Washington correspondent of the New York Times, General Johnston has “conclusions directly opposite to those of Governor Cumming touching the intention of the Mormons, who, he says, are now arming and fortifying at every point.”

The administration is now fearful that Governor Cumming has been deceived. The next dispatches will be looked for with intense interest. Many gentlemen conversant with Utah affairs think the President acted prematurely in proclaiming peace. Private accounts from Salt Lake represent Governor Cumming as almost a prisoner, and the Mormon leaders are exercising full sway over the minds of the people.

1858: 3 July, Usk Observer, p. 2 (1,100 words). “The Mormon Exodus.”

The same article as appeared in the North Wales Chronicle for 3 July 1858 (see previous entry).

1858: 7 July, Potter’s Electric News, p. 1 (990 words). “Mormonism in Difficulties.”

The writer satirizes the decision that Brigham Young now had to make as to whether his people would remain in Utah or whether he would lead them to a different location, perhaps further south to Sonora.

1858: 10 July, North Wales Chronicle, p. 2 (40 words).

It appears that there are or were two parties—Peace and War parties—among the Mormons, and hence has arisen the difficulty with us to understand their position. The Peace party appears to have triumphed. Brigham Young favored this party.

1858: 10 July, Wrexham Advertiser, p. 4 (455 words). “A Dreadful Prospect.”

The writer speculates concerning the future of forty thousand Latter-day Saints who appear to have decided to flee southward.

1858: 10 July, Usk Observer, p. 3 (925 words). “The Mormons.”

The minutes of a case tried in Thames Police Court having to do with the charges Mrs. Elizabeth Watson brought against Hannah Brown. The charges were that Brown, a Latter-day Saint with nine children, had assaulted Watson when she saw Watson kissing Mr. Brown. Watson claimed that the meeting was accidental and denied kissing Brown’s husband. Watson also claimed that the elders had assigned Mr. Brown to convince Watson to rob her own husband and go off to Utah. The judge concluded the trial:

Mrs. Watson had better not shake hands with Mr. Brown if she meets him again. As there was some aggravation I shall fine Mrs. Brown 1s. only, but if she molests Mrs. Watson again, I shall bind her over in heavy sureties to keep the peace.

1858: 10 July, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 4 (133 words).

The writer is puzzled at “the two parties among the Mormons, one being for peace and the other for war.” He concludes:

The faithful history of this huge imposture has yet to be written, but its band of cohesion is evidently sensuality, acting on fanaticism.

1858: 10 July, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 5 (68 words).

President Buchanan is unwell, much upset, it is said, by the conflicting accounts from the Mormon territory. The Mormon abandonment of Salt Lake City is confirmed, but they intended to have set fire to it had they not been discovered in rendezvous at Provo City, and fortify it against the Government troops. General Johnston was expected to commence a forward movement. The Peace Commissioners had reached the camp.

1858: 10 July, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 7, Item 1 (925 words). “Mormonism in London. Disgusting Revelations.”

The same article as in the Usk Observer for 10 July 1858 (see previous entry).

1858: 10 July, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 7, Item 2 (120 words). “The Mormons.”

News that “70 Mormon families had come into Camp Scott and claimed protection.” Also “extensive preparations had been made to set fire to the city” in case Johnston’s Army invaded Salt Lake City.

1858: 10 July, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, p. 9, Item 1 (38 words).

It is said that the President is much perplexed at the contradictory nature of the dispatches from Utah, and expresses regret at what he now considers his premature message to Congress announcing the end of the Mormon rebellion.

1858: 10 July, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, p. 9, Item 2 (57 words).

In Utah seventy Mormon families had come into Camp Scott to claim protection, which had been granted to them. When the great seal and records of the Mormons had been given to Governor Cumming, he was requested to put them in a fireproof safe. It was ascertained afterwards that arrangements had been made to fire the city.

1858: 10 July, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, p. 9, Item 3 (20 words).

It has been rumored that the Mormons purpose concentrating and fortifying themselves at Provo, forty miles from Salt Lake City.

1858: 17 July, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, p. 9 (19 words).

One hundred and fifty Mormons from Salt Lake City, have placed themselves under the protection of the United States.

1858: 21 July, Potter’s Electric News, p. 3 (785 words).

Recently, an unnamed speaker returned from Salt Lake City and presented an “anti-Mormon discourse” at the Ebenezer Chapel in Tenby. He pointed out the evils of polygamy and “entered into many other details which clearly showed that in the Mormon Zion every bestiality which can tend to lower and degrade the human race is freely practiced.”

1858: 24 July, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 6 (56 words).

Advices from Camp Scott to the 12th ult., reported that Colonel Hoffman and Captain Marcy had reached the camp with supplies and reinforcements, and that the army, marching in columns, was to set out upon its march on the following day. Nothing was known of the ulterior designs of the Mormons, but the emigration southward continued.

1858: 24 July, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 8 (460 words).

A shorter version of the account given in Potter’s Electric News for 21 July 1858 (see previous entry).

1858: 31 July, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 4 (195 words).

A report of peace in Utah and a description of “Mormonism”:

Brother Jonathan has made it all right with Brigham Young. The olive branch has conquered instead of the sword and the eventful Mormon rebellion is at an end. Mormonism is one of the most monstrous impostures that ever disgraced the face of God’s fair earth, it is a revival of the obscene Pagan rites to Venus, an attempt to introduce the “social evil” into the sacred arena of every family fireside.

1858: 31 July, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 3 (435 words). “The Mormons.”

More news of the peaceful settlement between Brigham Young and Johnston’s Army:

The conditions agreed upon at the conference between Governor Cumming, the Peace Commissioners, and the heads of the Mormon Church, are, that the troops shall enter the city without opposition; that the civil officers shall be permitted to perform their duties without interruption; and that unconditional obedience shall be paid to the laws of the land; while, on the other hand, past offences are to be forgiven, as was stated in the President’s proclamation.

1858: 31 July, North Wales Chronicle, p. 3 (25 words).

The half-yearly Conference of the Mormons for London, Reading, Kent, and Essex was held on Sunday night, in St. George’s Hall, St. George’s Road, Southwark.

1858: 31 July, North Wales Chronicle, p. 6 (39 words).

The United States. According to a Washington telegram the Utah peace commissioner reported, in a dispatch to the Government, that they had settled the difficulty between the United States Government and the Mormons. The dispatch substantially confirms previous accounts.

1858: 31 July, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 5, Item 1 (110 words).

Reprinted from the New York Herald.

The peace commissioners had had a meeting, and it was reported that they had agreed upon conditions of settlement between the rebellious saints and the general government.

1858: 31 July, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 5, Item 2 (127 words).

The Utah correspondent of the St. Louis Republican, printing on June 18, says:

The conditions agreed upon at the conference between Governor Cumming, the peace commissioners, and the heads of the Mormon Church, are, that the troops shall enter the city without opposition, that the civil officers shall be permitted to perform their duties without interruption, and that unconditional obedience shall be paid to the laws of the land.

1858: 31 July, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 5, Item 3 (26 words).

Official advices from Utah give promise that the Indians in that territory might be relied on to remain neutral in case of hostilities with the Mormons.

1858: 31 July, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 5, Item 4 (34 words).

A Washington telegram says the Utah peace commissioner, in a dispatch to the government, states that they have settled the difficulty between the government and the Mormons. The dispatch substantially confirms the previous accounts.

1858: 31 July, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 8 (76 words). “Important to Emigrant Mormonites.”

A letter has been received by Mr. Watkin, Little London, Willenhall, from his brother Thomas, who some time ago emigrated with others of the Mormon faith, in which he expresses his regret that he had ever been led astray by the accursed Mormons, who, he states, are in an entirely different condition to that represented by their advocates in this country. Trade is also very bad, and the climate is very objectionable.

1858: August, Y Dysgedydd (The Instructor), p. 324 (83 words). “The Widow of Joe Smith.”

The widow of Joe Smith the Mormon continues to reside in Nauvoo, but she does not value anything in the “Saints.” And she has married a tavern keeper, who considers every prophet as humbug. Joe the younger, who should rightfully be the head of the Mormons, is a strong twenty-two-year old lout who hates Brigham Young and curses the Salt Lakers. Nauvoo was at one time the residence of 20,000 inhabitants but is presently in ruins. Washington Union.

1858: August, Yr Haul (The Sun), pp. 241–43 (1,430 words). “The Mormons.”

In his opening paragraph, the writer describes this people as “the filthiest and most corrupt sect which has ever named itself under the name of Christianity.” He then presents his thesis statement:

But it is quite likely that the day of the success of Mormonism is about to end, and that its sun is about to set for all eternity.[4]

In the second paragraph the writer presents a depiction of “the fourth exodus of the Mormons” as they travel southward toward Mexico to avoid a conflict with the United States Army.

In the third paragraph the writer declares:

It is noteworthy that Mormonism cannot exist or live near a Christian civilization, and that is the reason the Mormons retreat from among men and establish themselves on their own. They cannot live except in darkness with which their accursed system is covered. . . . What they have received from Joseph is nothing but an ungodly and sensual creed which shreds all societal relationships and lowers men to the same level as animals.[5]

In the fourth paragraph, the writer describes the arrival of Joseph Smith’s followers in Illinois:

In Illinois the Mormons were at first considered to be the targets of persecution by the slave traders, and they were treated kindly and gently; and new adepts enlisted under their banner.[6]

He then explains the development of Nauvoo—“a pool of corruption”—and the events that led to the death of Joseph Smith.

In the final paragraph, the writer places the blame for the failure of Brigham Young to dissolve the “corrupt traditions” he had received from Joseph Smith, his predecessor:

Joseph Smith was nothing more than the representative of the most corrupt goods associated with human nature; and in its sum total Mormonism is nothing more than the representative of human nature in its entire corruption and squalor.[7]

1858: 7 August, North Wales Chronicle, p. 6 (28 words).

Later news from Utah states that General Johnston entered Salt Lake City on the 26th June. The Mormons had been invited to return. Provo was still their headquarters.

1858: 14 August, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 4, Item 1 (121 words).

Here is the opening statement:

From Utah we have news to the 23rd of June. Everything was quiet in the territory, and the Mormons were returning to their homes.

1858: 14 August, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 4, Item 2 (70 words).

By the last advices the Mormons were fast returning to their homes in Utah, and Brigham Young is to be tried for high treason, proffering the modest request, so characteristic of the man, that it shall be by a jury of Mormons only! Such a lame and impotent conclusion to a tirade of unsurpassed bluster and bravado, has rarely been recorded. What do the saints think of their Prophet now?

1858: 14 August, North Wales Chronicle, p. 6 (125 words). “The Mormons—Brigham Young’s Idea of a Jury.”

The dates from Salt Lake City, by way of Fort Leavenworth, are to the 30th of June. The army had marched from the capital to Cedar Valley, 40 miles below, and Brigham Young, his priests, his wives, and his people, are once more in their homes. No troops were in the city. The newly appointed Government officials were quietly entering upon the discharge of their duties. This news is all telegraphic. There is one other item which is so sublimely impudent that the wires must have made a mistake in transmitting the message—that “Brigham Young was anxious to be tried on the charge of treason, but insists that the jury should consist of Mormons only.”

1858: 14 August, North Wales Chronicle, p. 8 (81 words).

These mails also bring accounts from the Salt Lake. The Mormons were returning to the Salt Lake City, and Brigham Young wanted to be tried for treason, but to have a Mormon jury. What his object was, does not appear; but we imagine it is to procure his acquittal of any charge made against him by the United States Government, on the ground of his resistance to its authority—and thus obtaining free leave and license to reside again in Utah.

Episode 15.3

Start: Chapters are printed from “Handy Helps to Useful Knowledge” about the Latter-day Saints

The 21 August 1858 issue of the Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian has the first chapter of a series entitled “M�ǰ����DzԲ�.” A new chapter appears in the following six issues for a total of seven. These are all taken from a source entitled “Handy Helps to Useful Knowledge.”

1858: 21 August, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 8 (1,475 words). “Mormons. Chapter I—Their Book, Prophets, and Mysteries.”

1858: 28 August, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 8 (1,350 words). “Mormons. Chapter II—The Prophet Joseph Smith.”

1858: 4 September, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 8 (2,100 words). “Mormons. Chapter III—The Golden Bible.”

1858: 11 September, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 8 (1,430 words). “Mormons. Chapter IV—The Church of the Latter-day Saints.”

1858: 18 September, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 8 (885 words). “Mormons. Chapter V—Building of Nauvoo—Death of the Prophet, Joe.”

1858: 25 September, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 8, Item #1 (1,780 words). “Mormons. Chapter VI—The New Prophet—Exodus and Progress of the Saints.”

1858: 2 October, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 8 (1,345 words). “Mormons. Chapter VII—Mysteries and Present State of Mormonism.”

End: Chapters are printed from “Handy Helps to Useful Knowledge” about the Latter-day Saints

1858: 21 August, Merthyr Telegraph, p. 4 (60 words). “Pigs in Harness.”

From the Mormon country, Governor Cummings testifies to having observed a wagon on the road from Salt Lake City to Provo, which was drawn by pigs harnessed to the tongue by an ingenious combination of straps and cords. In it was seated a fat man, who excited his team into a trot by the aid of a black snake whip.

1858: 21 August, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 8 (57 words).

Later news had been received from Utah. The territory was perfectly tranquil, and the general officers were in high favor with the Mormons. None of the soldiers of General Johnston’s army were allowed to enter Salt Lake City, and strict orders had been issued, prohibiting any interference with the Mormons. The Peace Commissioners had left for Washington.

1858: 28 August, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 3 (1,260 words). “The Mormons.”

The Morning Herald provides considerable detail concerning the ending of the Utah War, then a very negative assessment of Brigham Young and his unlawful activities.

1858: 28 August, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, p. 10 (295 words). “Escape from the Mormons.”

Mr. J. D. Wilson, a very zealous disciple of the Mormon faith, who went out from Newcastle-upon-Tyne, with his wife and family, to the Salt Lake City, has found out his mistake and left the place.

The writer then quotes from a letter Wilson had written to his parents about his negative experience in Utah. Upon discovering that “Mormons preach one thing and practice another,” he laid plans to leave:

Brigham Young would have allowed me to leave Salt Lake in March last, but not my family. He would not allow me a horse, and if I had left, I should have had to carry on my back meat sufficient to serve me for 1,000 miles. If I had been mad enough to attempt it, they would have followed twenty or thirty miles and then killed me; they say, “Dead men tell no stories.”

Wilson credits the coming of Governor Cumming for making it possible for his “escape.”

1858: 3 September, The Cambrian, (105 words).

A brief description of a mob attack incited by Andrew B. Hepburn in the London area:

The Mormonites at Stepney have become objects of the popular indignation, and on Friday a discourse was delivered in the street outside their conventicle by Mr. Hepburn of Swansea notoriety which had the effect of inciting the mob to an attack upon the elders and their followers, who were at the time engaged in the mysteries of their worship. The affair became serious and the Mormons would have fared badly but for the protection of the police who had great difficulty in escorting them to a place of safety. The anti-Mormonite agitator and his lieutenant have been bound over to keep the peace.

1858: 3 September, The Cambrian (1,450 words). “The Great Salt Lake City.”

A lengthy description of Salt Lake City written by a “Utah Correspondent of the New York Herald.” Much of the information is about the houses built for Brigham Young and other leaders. A somewhat longer version appeared in the Patriot for 18 September 1858 (see previous entry).

1858: 4 September, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 3 (155 words).

The American Peace Commissioners arrived at Washington from Utah to work out an agreement.

1858: 4 September, Usk Observer, p. 2 (545 words). “Brigham Young in a Fix.”

According to the Utah correspondent for the New York Herald, “Brigham Young, Esq., has really received a revelation from the Lord commanding him to hold his voice for a season.” When asked when people could hear Brigham Young preach anew, two of his wives responded: “Brigham will not preach again, so long as you have a Gentile shorthand reporter here to take down his discourses.”

1858: 4 September, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 4 (137 words).

We have a curious item of intelligence from Utah. The Peace Commissioners report to the Federal Government that no passage is to be found in the Book of Mormon authorizing polygamy or concubinage, so that Brigham Young in establishing the system of many wives in his community, has directly contravened an express command. This is a pretty exposure verily for the poor deluded women who have fallen in the power of his clutches, but happily they are now free if they please, and may live in something like comfort under the protection of the American Government. As for the arch fiend Young himself, it was expected he would be tried for treason and banished from the State, which will be a happy riddance for his followers, who complain of being worn down by his tyrannies and exactions.

1858: 10 September, The Cambrian (945 words). “The Mormons.”

A correspondent for the London Times “expresses his doubts that the peace patched up with the United States Government and the Mormons will be lasting and thinks that a reaction will follow worse than the original disease.” The writer provides his impressions of visiting Salt Lake City just before the inhabitants returned from Provo:

The houses were all closed, and windows and doors closed up with rough boards. Scarce a human being could be seen in the streets for in the entire city there were only two or three hundred men left to guard the property and to apply the torch if orders should come to do so.

He writes the following about Brigham Young:

I should judge him to be shrewd in worldly affairs, a good business manager, a judge of human nature and capable of adapting it to his will. The cast of his mind, however, is evidently low and vulgar.”

He writes the following about Heber C. Kimball:

His reputation as a husband and father is bad, and many are the secretly whispered tales of his jealous cruelty to his wives, some of whom are younger than his firstborn child. He is certainly the most vulgar and blasphemous wretch it has been my misfortune to meet.

He writes the following about the women among the Saints:

The women appear to be, as a class, discontented and unhappy, painfully conscious that their natural affections must ever be stifled, and the love they would share alone with a husband be divided with several female partners.

His final assessment is as follows:

To all outward appearance the best order prevails; but it is evident that it is the good order of despotism.

1858: 11 September, Usk Observer, p. 2 (690 words). “Brigham Young and Kimball.”

The writer of this article for the Usk Observer obviously draws from the writings of the correspondent for the London Times, as does the writer for the Cambrian for 10 September 1858, but this writer provides considerably more detail in his impressions about Brigham Young and Heber C. Kimball.

1858: 11 September, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 3 (80 words).

Later news from Utah was received by the arrival of the Salt Lake mail at Leavenworth. All the Mormons who were able had returned from Provo, and matters were apparently quiet. Brigham Young, fearing assassination, as was alleged, had shut himself up in his residence under a strong guard of his followers. General Johnston was making preparations for going into permanent quarters. Colonel Loring, with three companies of the 3rd Infantry and 100 riflemen, had departed for New Mexico.

1858: 11 September, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 7 (2,120 words). “The Mormons at Utah.”

The writer draws from the same letter of the Times correspondent as do the writers for similar articles in the Cambrian for 10 September 1858 and the Usk Observer for 11 September 1858, p. 2.

1858: 18 September, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 5 (55 words).

Letters from Salt Lake City, of July 30th, mention that preparations were going forward in Utah for the territorial elections, and those of the residents who were so disposed would have an opportunity to vote for candidates to fill the offices occupied by members of the Mormon priesthood. Brigham Young was residing at Utah.

1858: 18 September, Usk Observer, p. 4 (21 words). “Lives of the Latter-day Saints.”

The Mormons complain of persecution—but they have had no trials. Which of them has as yet been indicted for polygamy?

1858: 18 September, Y Gwladgarwr (The Patriot), p. 2 (1,800 words). “Salt Lake City and the Mormons.”

This is a longer version of the article that appeared in the 3 September 1858 issue of the Cambrian, the 11 September 1858 issue of the Usk Observer, and the 11 September 1858 issue of the Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian (see previous entries). All are taken from the London Times for 1 September 1858, p. 5.

Episode 15.4

Start: Henrietta Polydore is returned to her father in England

1858: 25 September, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, p. 10 (665 words). “An English Girl Rescued from the Mormons.”

An important law case (writes the Utah correspondent of the New York Herald) has just been disposed of by Judges Eckels and Sinclair, in which Henry Polydore, of Gloucester, England, was plaintiff, and Samuel W. Richards, a Mormon dignitary, and Jane Mayer, his fourth wife, were defendants. The nature of the case is fully explained in the subjoined letter of Mr. Polydore to the Earl of Malmesbury. It is dated Gloucester, March 26th, 1858:

My Lord, in 1854, my only daughter, Henrietta Polydore, then eight years of age, was abducted by her mother, without my consent and against my will, from the school at which I had placed her in Lincolnshire, and taken in a company of Mormons to America. At that time and whilst my wife and child were in the United States, I made strenuous endeavors to recover possession of the latter, and in my efforts I was aided by the Earl of Carendon, then her Majesty’s Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, who directed instructions to be sent out to the British consuls at New Orleans and Portland to aid me in recovering my daughter. However, all my attempts failed, and the child is still withheld from me. In 1855 the mother and child proceeded to the Mormons’ settlement, Utah, and at the Salt Lake City was the child left on the mother coming to England in 1856. Mrs. Polydore long since returned to the United States, but it would seem she has not yet rejoined the child at the Salt Lake City. I should name that I have not seen either my wife or child since the latter’s abduction in 1854, and that I have never been able to hold communication in any manner with my child. A few days since I received a letter from Mr. Hyde, an entire stranger to me, dated New Orleans, U. S. A., simply in which he apprised me, in mercy to the child, and in justice to myself, of the movements and intentions of the mother, and of the position of my child. Mr. Hyde, after informing me that he had been a Mormon, had a few days previously met Mrs. Polydore in that city (New Orleans), and that she desired to reach Salt Lake City this year, if possible, and to remove the child as soon as practicable; and, he added, your daughter Henrietta is now living under the assumed name of Lucy, with her aunt Jane Mayer (a sister of Mrs. Polydore), who is the fourth wife of S. W. Richards, a Mormon dignitary, at Salt Lake City.

The government of Great Britain, through her representative, Lord Napier, as a matter of international courtesy, called upon the government of the United States to afford such assistance as might be in their power, with the view of securing the personal safety of the little girl, and her restoration to her father. Instructions were immediately given to General Johnston, commanding department at Utah, through the War Department, to adopt such measures as might seem to him advisable to bring about the release of the little girl from the Mormon community. But a different state of affairs existing here to what there was at the time the instructions were given, the General delivered over the papers to the civil authorities, whereupon the Attorney General, W. J. Cormack, prepared a petition, and brought the parties before Judges Eckels and Sinclair upon a writ of habeas corpus. A. G. Brown, Jr., assisted in the prosecution as attorney. The case was before the court for three consecutive days, and was finally disposed of by a judgment in favor of the plaintiff, Henry Polydore. The little girl is now in the custody of the United States Marshal, and will be sent on to the British Legation at Washington as soon as her wardrobe can be prepared for so long a journey, and a responsible person to take charge of her.

1858: 25 September, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 4 (275 words).

An election has been held in Utah, in the Great Salt Lake City, when all the Mormon candidates were returned by large majorities. A proof, however, that there is a satisfactory return to something like order has been the giving up of a little girl to her English father, Mr. Henry Polydore of Gloucester. It appears that his wife left her husband and joined the Mormons; subsequently, in 1854, abducted their child, a girl eight years old, and carried her off to Utah. For a considerable time, all trace was lost, but intelligence being obtained, the intervention of the Foreign-office was sought, and the active assistance of Lord Napier was obtained. Instructions were immediately given to General Johnston, commanding department at Utah, through the War department, to adopt such measures as might seem to him advisable to bring about the release of the little girl from the Mormon community. The General delivered over the papers to the civil authorities, whereupon the Attorney General, W. J. Cormack, prepared a petition, and brought the parties before Judges Eckels and Sinclair upon a writ of habeas corpus. The case was before the Court for three consecutive days, and was finally disposed of by a judgment in favor of the plaintiff, Henry Polydore. The little girl is now in custody of the United States Marshal, and will be sent on to the British Legation at Washington as soon as her wardrobe can be prepared for so long a journey, and a responsible person to take charge of her. Another year, and the child would have been of age to be assigned to the harem of some Mormon.

1858: 4 December, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 8 (70 words). “The Mormons.”

By the British and North American mail steamship America, which arrived at Liverpool on Monday, we have the following: “Judge Eckles, having in charge Henrietta Polidore, who had been rescued from the Mormons on a writ of Habeas Corpus at the request of the British Government, had arrived at St. Louis, en route for Washington. The girl was abducted from Gloucester, England, four years ago.

1859: 8 January, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 3 (140 words). “Restitution of an English Girl by the Mormons.”

Among the passengers by the steamer Africa, for Liverpool, were a messenger of the British Government and the girl named Henrietta Polydore, who was brought from Utah by Judge Eckles, in obedience to instructions from our Government. Miss Polydore was some years since taken from England by her mother, who had embraced the faith of the Mormons, and her father applied to the British authorities for her restoration. After due investigation of the facts before the Federal Court at Great Salt Lake City it was decided to restore the girl to her father, and she was accordingly brought to Washington and delivered to the custody of Lord Napier, the British minister, who has dispatched her to England. It is said that the mother of the girl followed her to Washington.

End: Henrietta Polydore is returned to her father in England

1858: 25 September, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 8, Item #2 (21 words). “Lives of the Latter-day Saints.”

The same article as in the Usk Observer for 18 September 1858 (see previous entry).

1858: October, Seren Cymru (Star of Wales), p. 456 (270 words). “Mormons Losing Ground.”

The writer reports that many Latter-day Saints are now abandoning their faith. He quotes a paragraph from the Jefferson Advertiser to support his claim:

With one voice, they condemned Brigham Young and the apostles, and his murder by the Mormons who remained in Fort Scott was talked about as a certainty. They all, without exception, loathe Mormonism, and have rejected it, and they demonstrate a resolve to do what they can from now on to try to oppose and eradicate Mormonism from the face of the earth.

1858: 2 October, North Wales Chronicle, p. 2 (155 words). “Mormon Blasphemy.”

A correspondent of the New York Herald writes—“I am told, sub rosa, by some of the Mormons of high standing, who are in the counsels of Brigham, that the prophet has a new Bible ready for the printer. Existing circumstances prevent its immediate publication. This Bible makes a god out of Brigham, and constitutes polygamy as the summum bonum of all religion. I am also informed by large numbers of persons that Brigham has heretofore been frequently called god in the Church. Speakers have thus addressed the audience—‘Hero is our god’ (pointing to Brigham); ‘we worship a live god, and will have nothing to do with dead gods.’ The numbers of the persons, both apostates and saints, who have told me this, and their apparent sincerity, ought to be sufficient to gain credence for it. With any other people it would be beyond belief, but with this people all things (blasphemous) are possible.

1858: 2 October, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 3 (80 words).

One week’s later news from Salt Lake City has been received. The dates are to the 14th ult. There is little of importance from that quarter. The Indians were somewhat troublesome, and the murder of several Mormons was reported. On the arrival of the judges in the territory, the trials of Mormon leaders indicted for treason would be commenced. It will probably be merely an investigation, as the President’s proclamation pardoning the rebels upon their submission will be honorably carried out.

1858: 2 October, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, p. 9 (29 words).

News from the Salt Lake is to the 14th of August, but there is nothing important. The Indians were somewhat troublesome, and the murder of several Mormons was reported.

1858: 9 October, North Wales Chronicle, p. 2 (180 words). “Three Hundred Mormons Renouncing the Faith.”

A correspondent sends the following to the Jefferson City Examiner, under date Sept. 4: “I left Camp Scott on the 13th of June. The Mormon excitement had entirely abated. Several Mormon trains had passed Camp Scott on their way to the States. I came down with two Mormon trains from Camp Scott, numbering about 300 persons, who were chiefly English and Scotch; and the principal topic of their conversation throughout the absurdity of Mormonism and its principles. They were all unanimous in their denunciations of Brigham Young and his apostles, and talked of his assassination by the Mormons who remained at Fort Scott as a sure event. They have all (without exception) become disgusted with Mormonism, and have renounced it, and expressed their determination from henceforth to use all their efforts for the total annihilation of Mormonism. They all express their desire to return to their native countries, and would, if they had the means to do so, in order that they might be instrumental in saving others from the baneful influence of Mormonism.”

1858: 9 October, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 7 (24 words).

A Mormon preacher traveling about the country on a velocipede has been taken up at Bedford on suspicion of stealing that instrument of locomotion.

1858: 16 October, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, p. 2 (24 words).

The same article as in Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian for 9 October 1858 (see previous entry).

1858: 16 October, Monmouthshire Beacon, p. 2 (24 words).

The same article as in Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian for 9 October 1858 (see previous entry).

1858: 23 October, North Wales Chronicle, p. 2 (395 words). “Fight in the Streets of the Salt Lake City.”

A detailed description of an altercation between Major General George D. Grant and Tom Williams. The latter had left Salt Lake City and the Church in 1856. The nature of their disagreement is not clear.

1858: 9 November, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 7 (24 words).

The same article as in the Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian for 9 October 1858 (see previous entry).

1858: 13 November, Caernarvon and Denbigh Herald, p. 9 (110 words).

Advices from St. Louis of the 26th say the Salt Lake mail, with dates of the 25th September, reached St. Joseph on the 17th. Business was very brisk at Salt Lake. Trains were constantly arriving from California with goods and provisions. There was good feeling between the Mormons and Gentiles. The former speak in high terms of Governor Cumming. General Johnston’s command consists of 7000 to 8000 men, including troops and employees, all of whom were consolidated in one grand encampment, and would remain together during the winter. There were about 4000 troops at Fort Bridger under Colonel Cambrey. Colonel Morrison, of the 7th Infantry, had arrived at Camp Floyd.

1858: 13 November, Cardiff and Merthyr Guardian, p. 3 (120 words).

The Salt Lake mail to the 25th of September reached St. Joseph’s Mobile, on the 16th ult. Everything was quiet in the Territory, and a good feeling is reported to exist between the Mormons and the Gentiles. Business was brisk at Salt Lake City. Trains of goods and provisions were constantly arriving from California. The supply trains from the States were also arriving in good condition and great numbers. Sixty had passed Fort Bridger, and twenty were met on the Streetwater, and eight were north of the Platte. All the troops under General Johnston are consolidated in one encampment. His command, including employees, numbers 7000 or 8000. About 4000 men were also at Fort Bridger, under Colonel Cambrey.

1858: 24 December, The Cambrian (620 words).

A detailed account of William Lewis, a policeman who was found hiding under the bed in a brothel in Swansea by a fellow policeman. Lewis was sentenced to ten days in prison with hard labor. Here is a note at the end of the article:

The defendant is a married man and was for some time one of the chief members of those fanatics—the Latter-day Saints—in which capacity, so we are informed, he would sometimes be engaged preaching.

Episode 15.5

Start: The Instructor prints seven long articles entitled “Mormonism”

1858: December, Y Dysgedydd (The Instructor), pp. 465–68 (2,910 words). “M�ǰ����DzԾ�����.”

This is the first in a series of seven articles by the title of “M�ǰ����DzԾ�����.” The writer declares his general intent in this opening paragraph:

History is what I have foremost in my mind in writing this article, and history will be foremost in my mind as I write the articles I intend to publish thereafter. I do not intend to reason for or reason against. Mormonism, as a system of doctrine, is beneath our wasting time with such tasks. It deserves nothing but scorn and disgust. But as a demonstration of untamed religion in belief, and a composition of deceitful government in practice, it has a kind of majesty which calls for the attention of the statesman and the philosopher, the philanthropist and Christians.

In this lengthy essay, the writer touches on a number of points:

• The origin of the word “Mormon”
• The relationship of the Latter-day Saints over the past few months with the United States government
• The forced movement of the Latter-day Saints from Illinois to Utah
• The United States military expedition sent to Utah
• The peaceful agreement that was reached

The writer offers his general opinion about the Latter-day Saints:

Whatever virtues may pertain to the Mormons, it appears that truthfulness and humility are not among them; and whatever they may lack, it cannot be said that they are lacking in effrontery.

He concludes with an expression of his feelings for his fellow Welshmen:

We can do no less than feel genuine concern in the matter, since so many of our compatriots, yes, sons and daughters of Wales, have been beguiled by rascals, left the country of their birth, and have settled in a territory where God is dishonored, the Savior is blasphemed, and the principles of kindness, morality, and religion are shamefully scorned.

1859: January, Y Dysgedydd (The Instructor), pp. 27–30 (3,130 words). “Mormonism,” part 2 of 7.

The writer has borrowed heavily from English-language sources for this history of Joseph Smith’s life and the rise of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

1859: February, Y Dysgedydd (The Instructor), pp. 58–61 (2,515 words). “Mormonism,” part 3 of 7.

1859: April, Y Dysgedydd (The Instructor), pp. 146–50 (2,840 words). “Mormonism,” part 4 of 7.

1859: June, Y Dysgedydd (The Instructor), pp. 217–20 (2,760 words). “Mormonism,” part 5 of 7.

In the January, February, and April issues of the Instructor for 1859, the writer focused on the history of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, for which he borrowed from a variety of sources. In this issue, however, he declares:

We are taking a look at a moral system that has been established in the depths of the desert—a system that denies our laws, our rites, our literature, and our God. A totally new invention, founded on new opinions, completely opposite to our beliefs, and perfectly contrary to all our family feelings. It is a system that is a mixture of Judaism, Catholicism, Mohammedanism, Paganism, and Socialism.

Regarding miracles, the writer declares:

Time fails us to discuss what they claim about miracles. One does not really know how to feel upon hearing their stories, whether to laugh, to weep, or to wonder—laugh at the humor, weep at the deceit, or wonder at the impudence of the assertors and the stupidity of the believers.

The writer makes a few observations about Dan Jones and his brother, Rev. John Jones. Referring to the incident that took place on 31 December 1848 in Merthyr Tydfil, the writer tells of the experience Dan Jones had with casting out devils.[8]

1859: July, Y Dysgedydd (The Instructor), pp. 270–72 (1,800 words). “Mormonism,” part 6 of 7.

Taken from the New York Times, this article begins with information about the “Danites,” also known as “The Destroying Angels.” These men were reportedly “an armed group” who “had taken an oath the support the leaders of the ‘Saints’ in everything they did or said, whether it was good or evil.” The writer then relates the story of Frederic Loba, a Swiss convert who became disaffected from the Church after going to Utah in 1854. Fearing for his life, Loba succeeding in “escaping” from Utah in 1857 and later told his story to a reporter of the New York Times.

1859: September, Y Dysgedydd (The Instructor), pp. 337–39 (2,320 words). “Mormonism,” part 7 of 7.

The writer begins with an assessment of his previous words:

The history given shows clearly the nonsense, the evil, and the arrogance of the Mormon family, and the lamentable surprise is that so many have fallen prey to it. In the latest statistics of this kingdom, their number in England and Wales is counted at thirty thousand. The Mormons themselves say that around four thousand of these are Welsh by birth and language. What explanation can be given for this?

But instead of offering an explanation, the writer concludes:

Mormonism is so vile as a system that there is no use trying to analyze it. That would only be spending time analyzing filth. Some things are so extremely unreasonable that it is difficult to contradict them. It is very difficult to reason with men who have no abilities to present their own argument, or abilities to comprehend the argument of anyone else.

End: The Instructor prints seven long articles entitled “Mormonism”

Notes

[1] Zion's Trumpet, December 1857, 408.

[2] Wrexham Advertiser, 8 August 1857, 2.

[3] Wrexham Advertiser, 26 June 1858, 4.

[4] The Sun, August 1858, 241.

[5] Ibid., 241-42.

[6] Ibid., 242.

[7] Ibid., 243.

[8] See Millennial Star, 11:38-42.