1 January 1845, Wednesday
Allen 2, p. 153

The year 1844 has passed away with all its sorrow, joys and extraordinary scenes,'' he began, and then described some of those scenes in colorful language that literally oozed bitterness and disgust. Not only was the world corrupt and full of ``hellish traditions,'' but it was ``sustained by a sectarian priesthood, whose officers are the legitimate sons and daughters of the great whore of all the earth.'' This ``ungodly generation'' was slumbering in the arms of Satan, ``under whose caresses they feel perfectly safe and at ease.'' The Saints were thus engaged in holy war, for, said Clayton, ``These characters with mobocratic governments at their right hand, and Satin at their head run this little world and their united efforts are to destroy the few who seek to serve God according to his ordinances.'' God, however, was with the Saints, ``their rear guard & their leader,'' and the important events of that year seemed to prove it. One such event had been the organization of the Kingdom of God or the Council of Fifty. Another was the period of heavy floods, while a third was the martyrdom itself. Tragic as it was, Clayton saw the murder as at least fulfilling some purpose, for it would permanently stain wicked Illinois with the ``innocent blood of the two best men who ever lived on the earth,'' and it would indelibly write in the hearts of the Saints the memory of that awful day. In this, at least, Clayton was prophetic, for, next only to the First Vision and the Book of Mormon, the martyrdom has become a sacred story of Mormon piety.

But Clayton's year-end reflections were not all negative. He had received two new companions'' (i.e. wives: Margaret Moon and Alice Hardman) and had a ``good propsect of adding another crown to my family [i.e., Diantha Farr] which is a source of great consolation to me.'' The Saints were united in sustaining the Twelve, and on the whole the year closed ``with the blessing of the Almighty God in the midst of his Saints and their never seemed to be a better feeling than at the present.''

Like a clear mountain pool, Clayton's cogitations of that day both reflected and enhanced his deepest feelings. The mere act of writing undoubtedly sharpened and clarified them. He ended his introspection with a long prayer of thanksgiving, supplication, and commitment. He appealed for blessings on his family, his future wife Diantha, and his mother-in-law. But he also prayed for himself, and in words that reflected the kind of discipleship that did not seek power but, at least, craved both the recognition and the confidence of his leaders. It was this that helped bring meaning to his discipleship:

Thou has bestowed many blessings upon me. Thou has preserved my life. Thou has given me favor in the eyes of thy servants. Thou hast preserved me from following in the tracts of apostates and thou has done more for me than I have deserved. ... And now O God I ask thee in the name of Jesus Christ thy Son to take charge of me this year also. ... Will thou O Lord continue to give me favor in their eyes. May my conduct continually be such as to secure their good feelings and entire confidence. ... May I grow in wisdom, humility, virtue, patience and gratitude to thee, yea O Lord and may my heart be purified so that it will be fit for the principles of eternal truth to abide there forever.
Council of 50, p. 268
Reflections. Jan. 1st 1845

... The organization of the Kingdom of God on 11th March last is one important event.
Council of 50, p. 268; Allen 1, p. 46 n. 21
This organization was called the Council of Fifty or Kingdom of God, and was titled by revelation as follows, ``Verily thus saith the Lord, this is the name by which you shall be called, the Kingdom of God and his Laws, with the Keys and power thereof, and judgment in the hands of his servants, Ahman Christ.''

In this Council was the plan arranged for supporting Pres. Jos. Smith as a candidate for the presidency of the U.S. Prest Joseph was the standing chairman of the council and myself the Clerk. In this Council was also devised the plan of esbtablishing an emigration to Texas, and plans laid for the exaltation of a standard and ensign of truth for the nations of the earth. In this council was the plan devised to restore the Ancients to the knowledge of the truth and the restoration of union and peace amongst ourselves. In this council was Prest Joseph chosen our prophet, Priest, and King by Hosannas. In this council was the principles of eternal truth rolled forth to the hearers 51 without reserve and the hearts of the servants of God made to rejoice exceedingly.
Nauvoo 1

Wednesday 1st ...
Reflections

... I was admitted a member of the first quorum and a member of the council of fifty. I have received two companions, received two children and buried one.
Allen 1, p. 54

``I have a good prospect of adding another crown to my family,'' he could say as he looked forward to 1845.
Allen 2, p. 110

``Thou has done more for me than I have deserved,'' he prayed in gratitude at the end of Nauvoo's most distressing year, 1844, and then continued: ``And now O God I will praise thee. I will speak good of thy name for all thy mercies and I here record my gratitude to thee and my confidence in thy work and my determination to endure to the end.''

9 January 1845, Thursday
Nauvoo 1

Thursday 9th. ... He /Heber C. Kimball about 7½/ came at that time & we went over to brother Farrs to spend a little season together. Winslow Farr was married to Olive H. Freeman for time & all eternity. After which the seal of the covenant was put upon
Diantha The question was asked of each one present, did they freely give her up, and they all signified their willingness by saying they had no objections. There was present Winslow Farr her father & his wife. Also Loren Farr & Nancy his wife and William Walker & Olive his wife.

The blessings pronounced upon her head were great and one promise was that her seed should become numerous as the sands on the seashore H.C.K. gave her some very good advice afterward & she seems to feel well. 52 ...
Nauvoo 1; Allen 1, p. 54

May she never violate her covenant, but may she with her companion realize to the full all the blessings promised. And may there never [be] the first jar or unkind feeling towards each other exist to all eternity 53 is thy prayer of thy servant William O Lord and may it be ever so Amen. We had a very pleasant interview and parted about 8½ o clock.

12 January 1845, Sunday Nauvoo 1

Sunday 12th. At the Council Hall. Er H.C. Kimball preached. He used many figures to illustrate his ideas amongst the rest when speaking of the unwillingness of the saints to abid the laws of exaltation. He said that the church was like a swarm of Bees, who when they want to increase the king & queen go & seek a new location and when they have found it they come back to the hive & persuade the young folks out but as soon as they begin to fly the old women & young women run with their old tin Kettles and pans and cow Bells, tickling to drown the voice of the king and throw them into a confusion and prevent their enlargement. Just so with the saints when any seem disposed to enlarge their kingdom and godhead the old women & young women run with their old kettles & pans & cow Bells to drown the sound of the leaders and throw the saints into confusion and keep them shut up in their old traditions After he got through O. Pratt added an idea on the extent & magnitude of the planetary system and the beautiful adaptation to the enlargement of the saints. It was a very interesting meeting. P.M. attended the H.P. quorum with Aaron Farr. I conversed with him some concerning D. in Margarets hearing and she felt bad. Prest. Young, Kimball & others attended the quorum and selected 50 of the members to go on a mission till about April 1st. Evening met with the first quorum at Parleys. Joseph Young & his wife were annointed with the second ordinance. D. was at my house when I got home and tarried with us all night

13 January 1845, Monday
Nauvoo 1

Monday 13th. This A.M. I had some talk with D in bed. All things seemed to go right.

14 January 1845, Tuesday
Nauvoo 1

Tuesday 14th. ... Evening rode out with Lot to A. Farrs. Talked with Aaron considerable also with D. and was with her until 12½ and accomplished the desire of my heart by gaining victory over her feelings May the Lord bless her until her cup shall run over and her heart be as pure as gold.

22 January 1845, Wednesday
Nauvoo 1

Wednesday 22nd. ... Bought two rings and gave one to S.A. Whitney for painting aprons.

25 January 1845, Saturday
Nauvoo 1

...Aaron Farr seems to be working to get Margt. away from me. We had a long talk together on the subject.

26 January 1845, Sunday
Temple History, p. 142

During the early part of January, 1845, the High Priest quorum entered into an investigation of the propriety of building a hall for their accomodation. On the 26th, President Young and some others of the quorum of the Twelve attended the meeting of the quorum, when the subject was again discussed. President Young made some remarks on the subject and concluded by advising them, instead of building a hall, to go to work and finish the upper room of the temple, and by this means they would soon have a room to attend to the ordinances and save much expense.
A vote was taken on accepting President Young's proposition, which was carried without a dissenting voice. The brethern immediately commenced bringing in their donations to the bishops for that purpose. This matter served as a new stimulul among the Saints to use every exertion to finish the temple as speedily as possible.
Nauvoo 1

Sunday 26th. Spent the day very pleasantly with D. F. for I felt so bad about Margt. I did not like to go to meeting. Evening met with the quorum. John E. Page & J. C. Kingsbury were received also Sara Ann Whitney, Hellen M. Kimball, Eliza R. Snow, ____Page, ____Pratt, Olive G. Frost, Lucy Seeley, Louisa Beeman, Aaron Farr has been talking again to M. and has succeeded in alienating her feelings much.
Jesse, John Taylor Journal 54

Evening met with the quorum. John E. Page & J. C. Kingsbury were received also Sara Ann Whitney, Hellen M. Kimball, Eliza R. Snow, Page, Pratt, Olive G. Frost, Lucy Seeley, Louisa Beeman.

27 January 1845, Monday
Nauvoo 1

27 ... P.M. talked with S.A. and brother Whitney who reminded me of some items of law which proves that M. cannot get away unless I break the covenant. I talked with M. again and told her these things and she seems more satisfied.

28 January 1845, Tuesday
Nauvoo 1

Tuesday 28th. At the office all day. Talked with brother Kimball who confirmed brother Whitneys remarks and is of the same mind. He said he will converse with A and show him that he is handling edge tools, for it cannot go down in as much as I hold more authority than he does. ... At 11 o clock Pres. Young, H.C. Kimball, J. Taylor, N.K. Whitney, Geo. Miller, Elias Smith, R. Cahoon and myself (who are members of the Council of fifty) also John E. Page (not a member) went up into the council room. ... At noon I told M what brother Kimball said and she seems to feel much better.

4 February 1845, Tuesday
Council of 50, p. 268

Tuesday Feby. 4. 1845 Met at the 70's Hall with the Council of the Kingdom. There were only 25 members present viz: B. Young, S. Bent, John Smith, Alpheus Cutler, R. Cahoon, W.W. Phelps, G. Miller, P. Haws, Josh Fielding, Levi Richards, J.D. Parker, L. Woodworth, H.C. Kimball, O. Spencer, P.B. Lewis, D.D. Yearsley, C.C. Rich, O. Pratt, A. Lyman, J.W. Coolidge, O.P. Rockwell, G.A. Smith, E. Snow, and Wd Richards and myself. This is the first time we met since the massacre of Pres. Joseph & Hyrum Smith. The Council was reorganized and President B. Young appointed standing chairman as successor to Prest Joseph Smith by unanimous vote. The vote was then taken in ancient order on each one present and all were received by unanimous vote. The vote the passed for absent members according to their ages and stations and resulted as follows, viz: Ezra Thayre, Amos Fielding, N.K. Whitney, C.P. Lott, J.M. Bernhisel, Elias Smith, O. Hyde, W. Woodruff, P.P. Pratt, D.S. Hollister, John Taylor, Wm Smith, A.W. Babbit, J.M. Grant, and B.F. Johnson were unanimously sustained and received into the new organization. The following were rejected and dropped from the Council: Uriah Brown, Wm Marks, Sidney Rigdon, Lyman Wight, James Emmett, Samuel James, Edward Bonny, Alexander Badlam, Geo. J. Adams, Merinus G. Eaton and Lorenzo D. Wasson. President Joseph & Hyrum two of the members martyred for the truth and John P. Green is dead, so that there is only 40 members left in the Council. It was voted to full up the Council, at some future time. The weather is extremely cold and the Council adjourned at 2½.

6 February 1845, Thursday
Council of 50, p. 269

Thursday Feby 6. 1845. At the office all day recording minutes of Council. &c
Nauvoo 1

Thursday 6th. ... Evening clothed to offer prayers for Wm. H. & Vilate R. who are both very sick.

11 February 1845, Tuesday
Council of 50, p. 269

Tuesday. Feb. 11. 1845. At the Office all day copying records of the Kingdom

12 February 1845, Wednesday
Council of 50, p. 269

Wednesday. Feb. 12. 1845. At the office all day copying records of the Kingdom

14 February 1845, Friday
Nauvoo 1

Friday 14th. ... In the evening the following brethren met together to pray and ask God to thrwart the plan of the mob and deliver the brethren out of their hands viz. B. Young H.C. Kimball, O. Pratt, GA. Smith, Wd Richards. N.K. Whitney, Geo. Miller, A. Cutler, R. Cahoon, Isaac Morley, O. Spencer, Joseph Young & myself. We have a very good time and the Lord blessus us and I believe he will have the desires of our hearts. After prayers it was voted that father Morley move in to Nauvoo as soon as possible & that Solomon Hancock be appointed to preside over the Lima Branch in hs stead. It was also voted that Dr Bernhisel be appointed a traveling Bishop to visit the churces We had also some conversation on the subject of sending six brethren with brother Lewis Dan a to the West, and especially to Texas.

26 February 1845, Wednesday
Allen 2, p. 174

While returning from a visit to some outlying Mormon settlements, the new church leader [Brigham Young] preached about the problems of the Saints. ``The nation has severed us from them in every respect,'' he told his listeners, ``and made us a distinct nation just as much as the Lamanites, and it is my prayer that we may soon find a place where we can have a home and live in peace according to the Law of God.''

28 February 1845, Friday
Allen 2, p. 173

``The State of Illinois has severed from us every tie that could possibly bind us to them as a government,'' he protested in his journal on February 28, ``and as a last mark of their vengeance they have taken away our charter and left us open to the enemy without the least shield of law to protect us.'' The Masonic lodge, too, had taken away its charter from Nauvoo, thus breaking another bond with the people of the state, ``so that every tie is gone, and we can now rely on the arm of Jehovah alone for protection and safety from our enemies.'' His next statement was an even more extreme assessment of their relationship with the world around them, but it nevertheless reflected the feelings of many Mormons that they were no longer able to support a government that had seemingly allowed so much wrong to come upon them. ``We are an independent people claiming n o aliance with any of the kingdoms of the earth. We are hunted and oppressed something like the Lamanites were on the first settlement of the United States by the whites. The mobs are continually getting out writs for the best of our men and seem determined to blot us out from the face of the earth.'' His hope, however, lay in the belief that ``the kingdom is the Lords and he will do as seemeth him good though all the world boil over.''

...Clayton at least reflected the unity of the Saints as he wrote of their ``determination to let no more men be dragged out of our midst to be massacred, but if we cannot have protection from the laws of the land we will seek it from the great God and his people.''

1 March 1845, Saturday
Council of 50, p. 269

Saturday. March 1. 1845. At 10 A.M. met at the Seventies Hall in the Council of Fifty. The following brethern were taken into fill up the Quorum viz: Joseph Young, John E. Page, David Fullmer, Theodore Turley, Albert P. Rockwood, Jonathan Dunham, & Lucien R. Foster. They subscribed to the laws of the Council and covenanted before God with uplifted hands to maintain all things inviolate agreeable to the order of the Council. Bros Daniel Spencer, Isaac Morley, and Shadrack Roundy were selected to make up the number of 50, but they were absent and sick. Brother John Pack was admitted to sit in the place of Wilford Woodruff, John D. Lee in the place of Ezra Thayer, and Lewis Dana in place of Amos Fielding they being absent in on business. Lewis Dana is a Lamanite of the Oneida nation, and the First Lamanite who has been admitted a member of any Quorum of the Church.

The object of the Council was to decide whether we shall send out a company of men with Bro. Dana to fill Joseph's measures originally adopted in this Council by going West to seek out a location and a home where the Saints can dwell in peace and health, and where they can erect the ensign and standard of liberty for the nations, and live by the laws of God without being oppressed and mobbed under a tyrannical government, without protection from the laws. Many able speeches were made on the subject, and the Council finally agreed to send out a company with Brother Dana to accomplish this important object. The following brethren were selected and appointed by unanimous vote of the Council, for this mission, viz. Samuel Bent to be the first man and president of the Mission, Jonathan Dunham next, Cyrus Daniels, Daniel Spencer, John S. Fullmer, Charles Shumway, Albert Carrington, and John W. Farnham. These brethern are expected to start immediately after Conference and proceed from tribe to tribe, to unite the Lamanites and find a home from the saints. The Council adjourned in the midst of the best kind of feelings.

4 March 1845, Tuesday
Council of 50, p. 269

Tuesday 4 Mch 1845. ... At 9 oclock met with the council of the Kingdom. We had a very interesting meeting. The subject being the Oregon Mission.

6 March 1845, Thursday
Council of 50, p. 269

Thursday March 6.a 1845. At the Office all day copying records of the Kingdom.

7 March 1845, Friday
Council of 50, p. 269

Friday March 7. 1845 As above

10 March 1845, Monday Council of 50, p. 269

Mar. 10. 1845. ... While writing and copying the records of the kingdom, I was writing these words dropped by Er H.C. Kimball in the council on the 4th inst. viz ``if a man step beyond his bounds he will lose his kingdom as Lucifer did and it will be given to others who are more worthy.'' This idea came to my mind. It has been a doctrine taught by this church that we were in the Grand Council amongst the Gods when the organization of this world was contemplated and that the laws of government were all made and sanctioned by all present and all the ordinances and ceremonies decreed upon. Now is it not the case that the council of the kingdom of God now organized upon this earth are
Council of 50, p. 269; Allen 1, p. 47
making laws and sanctioning principles which will in part govern the saints after the resurrection,
Council of 50, p. 269
and after death will not these laws be made known by messagers and agents as the gospel was made known to us. And
Council of 50, p. 269; Allen 1, p. 47
is there not a similarity between this grand council & the council which sat previous to the organization of this 55 world.

11 March 1845, Tuesday
Council of 50, p. 270

Tuesday March 11, 1845. In the Council of Fifty all day. Cyrus Daniels was admitted a member. The subject of writing letters to the Governor's and a number of other subjects was discussed. The subject of the movements of the mob was talked over, and it was considered best for those who are hunted with writs to go on Missions so that we may if possible evade the blow until we can finish the Temple and the Nauvoo House. It was also decided that the workmen on the walls of the Temple commence tomorrow.

12 March 1845, Wednesday
Council of 50, p. 270

Wednesday March 12. At the office all day copying Records of the Kingdom
Temple History, p. 142

On Wednesday, the 12th of march, Brother William W. Player commenced work again on the walls. He got one stone up just as the bell rung for dinner.

14 March 1845, Friday
Council of 50, p. 270

Friday March 14. At the Office all day chiefly recording records of the Kingdom
Nauvoo 1

Friday 14th. Brother Whitney tells me today that he has notified Margaret to go an receive her washings and annointing at the same time Ruth does. This makes my heart rejoice. I had heard of it on wednesday but not officially. Truly God is kind to me.
Temple History, p. 142

On Friday, the 14th, there was a man killed on the stone quarry by a stone falling on his head while the brethern were blasting rocks. This is the only accident of any moment that has ever happened on the temple or any of the works connected with it.

15 March 1845, Saturday
Council of 50, p. 270

Saturday, March 15. A.M. at the Office copying records of the Kingdom
Nauvoo 1

Saturday 15th. ... P.M. at the High Council taking minutes. G. J. Adams had his trial. Prsts. Young and H.C. Kimball were witnesses against him. Many hard things were proven against him which he confessed and begged for mercy It was decided that he write a confession of his wickedness, and agree to be one with the Twldve and do right here after, which he agreed to. The property in his hands belonging to the Temple he promised to bring and have a settlement. It was a good and interesting season and will do Adams much good.

17 March 1845, Monday
Council of 50, p. 270

Monday March 17. At the office all day chiefly copying records of the Kingdom

18 March 1845, Tuesday
Council of 50, p. 270

Tuesday March 18. 1845. In the Council of Fifty all day. D. Spencer was admitted a member. The subject of the Western mission was most on hand, and all seem interested fully in it.

19 March 1845, Wednesday
Council of 50, p. 270

Wednesday March 19, 1845. P.M. copying records of the Kingdom.

20 March 1845, Thursday
Council of 50, p. 270

Thursday March 20. 1845. At the office all day. A.M. recording tithings, afterwards copying records of the Kingdom.

22 March 1845, Saturday
Council of 50, p. 270

Saturday March 22, 1845. At the council of the Kingdom all day The Western Mission occupied near all day. The subject of the Nauvoo House, Printing office, Church History and organization of the City were talked over.

24 March 1845, Monday
Council of 50, p. 270

Monday March 24, 1845 ... Chiefly recording the minutes of the Council of Fifty.

26 March 1845, Wednesday
Allen 2, p. 167
I am a perfect slave to them all the while. I have as much work to receive the tithings for the Temple as an ordinary penman could keep up with, but more than this I spend about 3 and 4 days a week in council and recording records of the kingdom. I have also spent day after day writing brother Kimball's journal for the press, besides writing letters and attending to a multitude of contingent business. I have two dollars a day for six days in the week and spend near every sabbath for no compensation. Other men who don't do half the work have a great deal more money and good property for their comfort than I have and they seem to be extolled to the skies. The church has given me a poor lot for an inheritance but they have also given other men better lots who work no harder than I do and have more money to sport in.

27 March 1845, Thursday
Council of 50, p. 270

Thursday March 27, 1845 ... At the Office all day copying records of the Kingdom
Temple History, p. 142

On Thursday, the 27th of March, 1845, Brother Player put up the last trumpet stone, at about three o'clock, p.m. He also laid the first stringer for the large upper Venetian window in the east side.

28 March 1845, Friday
Nauvoo 1

Friday 28th. ... Sister Whitney went to attend to anointing my wife and Magaret but was again prevented through Sarah Ann not being there in season.
Allen 2, p. 170

On March 28, 1845, for example, he played with the band at a party at the mansion house, and he was accompanied by three wives. Margaret Moon and Diantha Farr were not publicly known to be his wives, but since they were all friends anyway this did not look peculiar and it was Clayton's way of making sure all his wives had as good a social life as possible. He loved such times and as a member of the band was frequently part of the entertainment.

31 March 1845, Monday
Nauvoo 1

Monday 31. ... On Saturday Ruth and Margaret received their annointing for which I feel thankful Margaret had some good instructions and she feels satisfied and reconciled. She says she will never leave me on any consideration.

/Journal entry of this date ends the journal with this last line/

I still feel determined to do all I can and be as faithful as I know as I know how for that is the desire of my heart, but my greatest desire is to so live that I may secure for myself and mine the highest degree of exaltation and glory which is possible for me to obtain, and to be with my friend Joseph Smith in the eternal world.
Allen 2, p. 166

The month of March was particularly difficult, and at the end he seemed resigned that the ``vast press of business'' weighing on his mind probably would not grow any better. ``I have labored diligently and faithfully but seem to get worse behind,'' he sighed through his pen. ``My health seems to be impairing and sinking, and it seems impossible to get rest enough to recruit my strength.'' But most important, it all had a spiritual meaning for him, whether he got credit for this work or not, as Joseph Smith still dominated his thoughts and ambitions. ``I still feel determined to do all I can and be as faithful as I know how,'' he wrote, ``but my greatest desire is to so live that I may secure for myself and mine the highest degree of exaltation and glory which is possible for me to obtain, and to be with my friend Joseph in the eternal world.''

1 April 1845, Tuesday
Council of 50, p. 270

Tuesday. April 1, 1845. At the office all day, quite unwell, recording minutes of the Kingdom.

3 April 1845, Thursday
Nauvoo 4

Thursday 3rd. ... Evening met with a few of the high quorum at Dr Richards house for prayer, there were present B. Young, H.C. Kimball, W. Richards, John Taylor, O. Pratt, G. A. Smith, J.E. Page, G. Miller, Joseph Young and myself. Our prayers were that the plans of the mob might be frustrated that they might have no influence nor power to distrub nor trouble us. that the leaders of the mob especially Sharp may be visited with judgements, and that we may be preserved in peace to finish the houses and see the Elders endowed and fulfill all that the Lord commanded us in this place, also that brother Whitney, A. Lyman & Uncle John Smith may be healed of their sicknesses, and that our families may be blessed &c. We had a good time.

5 April 1845, Saturday
Council of 50, p. 270

Saturday April 5. 1845. At 9 at the Seventies Hall with the Council of Fifty but on account of a multitude of business waiting the Council adjourned until without doing business, to next Friday at 8.45

6 April 1845, Sunday
Mormon Hierarchy, p. 76 56

''Bishop Newel K. Whitney the president over the lesser or Aaronic Priesthood has only one Counciller, viz. Wm Felshaw [--] Bishop George Miller has no council[or] as a Bishop.''

9 April 1845, Wednesday
Allen 2, p. 166

``I feel quite sick,'' he wrote in April, 1845, ``and feel that my severe confinement to the books and business is hurting my health and constitution.''

11 April 1845, Friday
Council of 50, p. 271

Friday April 11. 1845..With the Council of Fifty all day taking minutes. Pres. Young appointed J. Dunham, C. Shumway Lorenzo Young to go with Brother Dana on the Western Mission. It was decided to move the printing Office into the three lower stories of the Masonic Hall and commence the business on a larger scale. The Council all voting to do their utmost to sustain it.

15 April 1845, Tuesday
Council of 50, p. 271

Tuesday April 15, 1845 ... Dined at 12 Oclock with Brother Miller and afterwards rode with him to meet with the Kingdom of God in the upper room of the Seventies Hall. Phineas Young was received into the Council and decided to go with Bros Dana, Dunham and Shumway to the Indian Council at Council Bluffs and thence if they think best to the Pacific Ocean. It was also decided that Bro. Solomon Zundal (Zendal) should go with them to his tribe the Delawares. A letter from Gov. Ford was read giving his advice relative to our policy in organizing the City. He advises to organize the City into corporations of a mile square so as to include the whole surface. He d also recommends us to go and establish an independent government in California
Allen 2, p. 169

When one man called on him in April seeking forgiveness for the ``hard feelings and speeches'' he had used against him while Joseph was alive, Clayton quickly forgave him. ``I am glad for his sake he has taken the course he has to make the matter right & shall cherish no unkind feeling against him,'' he wrote in his journal.

16 April 1845, Wednesday
Council of 50, p. 271

Wednesday April 16. 45 ... P.M. at the Office mostly copying records of the Kingdom

17 April 1845, Thursday
Council of 50, p. 271

Thursday April 17. '45 ... Part of the day I was copying records of the Kingdom ... The following verses were composed by Er John Taylor, the Apostle, and revised by him at the Council of the Kingdom on Friday 11th inst.
``The Upper California. O thats the land for me.'' &c
Nauvoo 4

Evening tarried at the office till 8 oclock afterwards met at Dr Richards' to pray in company with B. Young, H.C. Kimball, W. Richards, J. Taylor, G.A. Smith, A. Lyman, O. Pratt, of the twelve; N.K. Whitney & George Miller the two church bishops, John Smith, Patriarch and Joseph Young. The particular subjects asked for was father Bents mission to L. Wights company and the deliverance of the church from their enemies. At my suggestion the hands who labor on the Temple were remembered to be preserved from accidents, inasmuch as they are in danger all the while. We had a very good time.

21 April 1845, Monday
Council of 50, p. 271

Monday April 21, 1845 ... Recording minutes of the Kingdom.
Temple History, p. 157

On Monday, April 21st, Brother Player put up the first star in the architrave. At half past two o'clock, p.m. he notified me that they were about to begin to raise it. I immediately went to the east end of the temple. On my way I met Elder Heber C. Kimball, one of the Twelve, and we went and sat down together on Brother Cutler's fence, opposite where the stone stood.

We entered into conversation together on various matters, chiefly pertaining to our spiritual interests. We watched the slow upward progress of the star with great pleasure. At precisely a quarter before three o'clock, it was properly set in its place; and the instant it was set, Brothers Edward Miller and Elisha Everett sprung for the top; but Brother Miller being a little the smartest he was on first and stood erect, viewing with pride the surrounding scenery. After he got down Brother Everett also mounted the stone and stood on it for some time. The top of the star is fifty-five feet above the ground.

The first star was put up on Joseph's corner, being the first one north of the south-east corner.
Allen 2, p. 170

Monday, April 21, seemed to be a landmark. Clayton spent the morning at his office, but he knew that across the street William Player, chief stonecutter, was preparing to put in place the first of thirty ``star stones'' that would grace the temple some fifty-five feet above the ground. At 2:30, Player was ready, and as Clayton headed out to observe he met his old friend, Heber Kimball. The two sat on Alpheus Cutler's fence, talked about religious matters, and watched a huge crane lift the stone into place. At exactly 3:00 it was set, when suddenly two workers sprang for the top of the star in a contest to see who could be the first to stand on it. Edward Miller, ``being a little the smartest,'' won.

Clayton watched the little scuffle with amusement, but there were weightier things on his mind. This was one of those events that provided renewed hope that the temple actually would be finished. He thought of that, but also thought of the economic problems of the Saints, especially those whose only livelihood came from the goods they received for working theres. More men were seeking employment than Clayton and the temple committee could possibly take care of, and more, in fact, than were needed for the work at hand. That day the committee gave the ``steady hands'' (those who had worked regularly) with large families a full barrel of flour each, and those who had small families a half barrel. To others they dealt out flour in small quantities. ``The Lord blesses the labors of his servents,'' Clayton wrote that night, ``and the higher the Temple rises the more means we have to build it with.''

22 April 1845, Tuesday
Council of 50, p. 271

Tuesday April 22, 1845. A.M. at the Office recording the minutes of the Kingdom. P.M. attended the Council of the Kingdom. There was not much business done. The brethren are not yet gone west and will probably not start for a day or two.

24 April 1845, Thursday
Council of 50, p. 271

Thursday April 24, 1845.. At the Office all day recording minutes of the Kingdom

27 April 1845, Sunday
Nauvoo 4

Sunday 27 ... Evening met at Dr Richards with the Dr. Pres Young H.C. Kimball, A. Lyman, G. A. Smith, O.Hyde, J. Young & John Smith. Our object was to offer up prayers for a number of subjects. The meeting broke up about 10½ o clock with perfect peace & union.

28 April 1845, Monday
Council of 50, p. 271

Monday April 28, 1845 ... A.M. recording minutes of the Kingdom Allen 2, p. 166

Even when he was involved in important council meetings Clayton's name was often left out of the official histories that chronicled those meetings. Brigham Young's history for April 28, 1845, for example, tells of a council attended by himself, Heber C. Kimball, John Taylor, and Newell K. Whitney where ``we read letters from Parley P. Pratt'' pertaining to his activities in the East. But Clayton was also at that meeting, and it was he who actually read Pratt's letters to the council.

29 April 1845, Tuesday
Council of 50, p. 271

Tuesday April 29. 1845 at 6:30 Met the Council of Fifty at the Seventies Hall
Temple History, p. 157

On the morning of Tuesday, the 29th of April, the first upper circular window was finished setting by Brother Player.

1 May 1845, Thursday
Nauvoo 4

Thursday 1st. ... Prest. Young told me that he had learned that the Rigdonites are intending to have me taken up and prosecuted for polygamy, especially George W. Robinson & Samuel James. ... Evening met for prayer at Dr Richards. There were present B. Young, H.C. Kimball, W. Richards, A. Lyman, O. Hyde, O. Pratt, G.A. Smith, John Smith, I Morley and Joseph Young and myself.

3 May 1845, Saturday
Nauvoo 4

Saturday 3rd. ... P.M ... Charles Ivins was in the office and says that in a conversation with Cowels he learned that Rigdons parrty is very much divided both in doctrine and sentiment. Law & Rigdon differed in fifteen points of doctrine, Rigdon wanting to deny the book of Mormon which Law could not do. McLellan & Rigdon also differ in sentiment.

6 May 1845, Tuesday
Council of 50, p. 271

Tuesday May 6. 1845. ... Evening met with the Council of Fifty in the Seventies Hall. The principal topic of conversation was the movements of the mob. It appears their determination is to get up an excitement at the Court and they are already trying it by reporting that the Saints are going en masse to Carthage at the Court, and if the Court does not execute the law on the murderers that we intend to destroy the Court and citizens of the County. From reports which the brethren have brought which have been at Carthage the mob are laying deep plans to bring us into collision with the State, so as to bring about our expulsion or extermination forthwith. It was agreed that none of the brethren leave the City at the Court, only those who are required to be there on business, so that we may prevent the mob from coming into the City and committing depredations in the absence of the brethren. An article was written by O. Hyde & W. Richards to publish in tomorrow's paper notifying the public of the designs of the mob ab and also the course we intend to pursue. The Council did not break up till 10¼
Oaks, Carthage Conspiracy, p. 72 57
William Clayton noted in his journal that the anti-Mormons were affirming that, if the court did not convict the murderers, the Mormons intended to destroy the courthouse and the citizens of the county. Such tactics, Clayton wrote, ``were intended to bring us into collision with the State, so as [to] bring about our expulsion or extermination forthwith.''

7 May 1845, Wednesday
Nauvoo 4

Wednesday 7th. ... Evening met with the following brethren at Dr Richards for prayer being clothed &c. viz. B. Young, J. Taylor, W. Richards, G.A. Smith, A. Lyman, N.K. Whitney, L. Richards, Brother Kimball came in at the close of the meeting. We had a very pleasant time. The chief subjects were to pray that the Lord would hedge up the way of the mob so that they may have no power over us during court. Also that the Lord would hedge up the way of John Greenhow that he may not have power or influence to go to England and publish the book of Doctrine and covenants. Petitions were also offered for brother Miller & others who are sick. It was also agreed to send a letter to Er Woodruff in England and warn him to forestall Greenhow and get out a copy right for the Doctrine & Covenants before him.
Allen 2, p. 171

``The works of the Temple progress very rapidly and there is a better feeling amongst the brethern than I ever saw,'' he wrote on May 7, 1845. ``Everything moves beautifully and harmoniously and the prayers of the saints ascend up daily that we may be sustained until the Temple and Nauvoo House are finished and the saints receive their endowment.''

8 May 1845, Thursday
Nauvoo 4

Thursday 8th ... Evening met a Dr Richards for prayer in company with Prest. B. Young, H.C. Kimball, W. Richards, J. Taylor, G.A. Smith, A. Lyman, O. Pratt, J. E. Page, N. K. Whitney, L. Richards, Joseph Young. We had a very interesting time.
Allen 2, p. 171

[Clayton] was delighted to report the visit of some people from Kentucky who were ``astonished'' at the industry of the Mormons and the beauty of the temple.

10 May 1845, Saturday
Council of 50, p. 272

Saturday 10 May 1845 ... P.M. met with the Council of Fifty and adjourned sine die. The adjournment was about in consequence of the conduct of D. D. Yearsley of whom there is strong suspicions of treachery.

11 May 1845, Sunday
Nauvoo 4

Sunday 11th. At the office all day comparing account books with brother Whitehead. Evening met at Dr Richards for prayer with B. Young, W. Richards, J. Taylor, O. Pratt, G.A. Smith, J.E. Page N.K. Whitney and Levi Richards. Prest. Young advised me to keep closed up for a week or two inasmuch as the apostates, especially S. James & G. W. Robinson have entered into measures to take me with a writ to Carthage. The mob also want to get Prest Young, H.C. Kimball, J. Taylor, W. Richards, O. Hyde & W.W. Phelps and it is said they have taken our writs for them. They want twelve men out of Nauvoo but we are unable to learn who the others are.

14 May 1845, Wednesday Allen 2, p. 158

On the fourteenth he learned that he was the object of both a writ of arrest and a subpoena.

15 May 1845, Thursday
Nauvoo 4

Thursday 15. Evening met at Dr Richards for prayer, in company with Prest. Young, H.C. Kimball, G.A. Smith, O. Pratt, N.K. Whitney & L Richards.

16 May 1845, Friday
Temple History, p. 157

On Friday, May 16th, a little after two o'clock, p.m. having been notified, I went on the temple and sat down on the top of the south-west corner stairway, on the highest part of the stone work. I then watched Brother Player set the last star, being on the west end and the second one from the south-west corner. It was set at exactly three o'clock, p.m.

At this time the carpenters were very busy raising the timbers for the upper floor of the temple, having them all framed and quite a large amount was already upon the walls and body of the building.

18 May 1845, Sunday
Nauvoo 4

Sunday 18th. ... I went to meet with the brethren at Dr Richards but felt to unwell to remain.

19 May 1845, Monday
Temple History, p. 157

On Monday, the 19th of May, while I was sitting on the temple, Brother Stephen H. Goddard met with an accident which was very near proving fatal. He was standing on the wall on the north side of the temple, assisting some others to take down one of the scaffolding poles. By some accident the foot of the pole slipped and struck him on the left side of the head. He fell head foremost, being stunned by the blow. Fortunately they had just got two joists in the floor and he fell across them, which prevented him from going down into the cellar, a distance of about sixty- two feet. And in all probability, if he had fallen down he would have been killed. The brethern raised him up and on examination found that he had received a cut on the upper corner of his left eye. His face was also much bruised. He bled profusely. I laid hands on him with two other brethern and he went home. He suffered considerable pain until evening, when it ceased, and in two days afterwards he was at work again, as usual.
23 May 1845, Friday
Nauvoo 4

Friday 23rd. ... Wm. Smith is coming out in opposition to the Twelve and in favor of Adams. The latter has organized a church at Augusta, Iowa Territory with young Joseph Smith for President, Wm. Smith for Patriarch, Jared Carter for President of the stake and himself for spokesman to Joseph. Wm. says he has sealed some women to men and he considers he is not accountable to Brigham nor the Twelve nor any one else. There is more danger from William than from any other source, and I fear his course will bring us much trouble. Evening went with brother Whitney to see the Twleve at Er Taylors on Main Street. We tarried till near 10 o clock. There were present B. Young, H.C. Kimball, J. Taylor, W. Richards, G.A. Smith, J.E. Page and N.K. Whitney. I presented to them a proposition to write a short history of the building of the Temple from its commencement, together with other matters and deposite the history in the corner stone, about to be laid tomorrow. They acquiesced with the plan. The case of Wm. Smith was also talked over. It appears he is determined to rule the church and monopolize the whole to himself. Samuel Brannan came in while were were talking I had an introduction to him. J. C. Wright and Elais Smith also came in and stated that the court had got a jury empannelled and was to proceed to try the murderers at 8 o clock tomorrow morning. They say there no manner of doubt but the murderers will be acquited.
Temple History, p. 157

On Friday, the 23rd, all the stone on the outside of the wall was laid, except, the south-east corner stone. This progress was a great rejoicing to the Saints.

The Rigdonites have prophecied that the walls would never be built, but through the blessing of God we have lived to see the predicition come to naught.
Allen 2, p. 163

``Wm. Smith is coming out in opposition to the Twelve and in favor of Adams,,'' he lamented on May 23. It angered Clayton to think that William Smith claimed to have ``sealed some women to men'' (i.e., performed the ordinance of eternal marriage, which Clayton believed he was not authorized to do) and that ``he considers he is not accountable to Brigham nor the Twelve nor any one else.'' If he feared any claimant to church leadership it was, ironically, the prophet's own brother, for, he wrote, ``There is more danger from William than from any other source, and I fear his course will bring us much trouble.'' That evening the Quorum of the Twelve discussed at length the ``improper course'' of William Smith. ``It appears he is determined to rule the church and monopolize the whole to himself,'' grumbled the anxious scribe as he wrote that night in his diary. 58

24 May 1845, Saturday
Temple History, p. 157

On Saturday the 24th, at a quarter before six o'clock a.m., was the time appointed for the laying of the capstone of the temple. Quite a number of the Saints had assembled to witness the interesting ceremony. There were present, of the quorum of the Twelve; President Brigham Young, Heber C. Kimball, John Taylor, Willard Richards, Amasa Lyman, George A. Smith, John E. Page, Orson Hyde, and Orson Pratt; also Newel K. Whitney, and George Miller, Trustees-in-Trust; Alpheus Cutler and Raymond Cahoon, building committee; William Clayton, temple recorder; John Smith, Partiarch and president of the Stake, and Charles C. Rich his counselor. Of the High Council William Huntington, Sr., Aaron Johnson, George W. Harris, James Allred, David Fullmer, William Weeks, architect, and William W. Phelps.

A few minutes before six, the band came up and arranged themselves on the platform in a circle a little back from the corner.

The names of the band who were present are as follows: William Pitt, leader, Stephen Hales, William F. Cahoon, Robert T. Burton, John Kay, James Smithies, Daniel F. Cahoon, Andrew Cahoon, Charles H. Hales, Martin H. Peck, J. T. Hutchinson, James Standing, William D. Huntington. Charles Smith and Charles C. Robbins, also William H. Kimball, color bearer.

At six o'clock the band played ``The Nightingale;'' and afterwards while the people were collecting, they played another tune. At eight minutes after six Brother William W. Player commenced spreading his mortar, perfect silence prevailing.

President Young stood on the wall immediately north of the corner stone, with Elder Heber C. Kimball at his right hand.

When the mortar was spread, the stone was lifted to its place by President Brigham Young, William W. Player, Tarlton Lewis, Elisha Everett, John Hill, Edward Miller, Charles W. Patten, Samuel Hodge, Hans C. Hanson, and Thomas Jaap.

President Young then stepped on the stone, and taking a large peatle began beating it to its place. He finished laying the stone with the assistance and direction of Brother Player precisely at twenty-two minutes after six o'clock.

The band then struck up the ``Capstone March,'' composed and arranged by William Pitt, the leader, for the occasion.

President Young then spoke to the congregation, instructing them with regard to shouting the ``Hossannah.''
He then said, ``The last stone is laid upon the temple, and I pray the Almighty in the name of Jesus to defend us in this place, and sustain us until the temple is finished and have all got our endowments.''

The whole congregation then, following the motion of President Young, shouted as loud as possible: ``Hossannah, hossannah, hossannah, to God and the Lamb! Amen, amen and amen!''

This was repeated a second and third time.

The President concluded by saying, ``So let it be, thou Lord Almighty!''

He continued and said: ``This is the seventh day of the week, or the Jewish Sabbath. It is the day on which the Almighty finished His work and rested from His labors. We have now finished the walls of the temple, and we may rest to day from our labors.''

He said he would take it upon him to dismiss the workmen for the day; and requested the people hallow the day, and spend it giving thanks to God.

He then dismissed the congregation, and in company with the brethern of the Twelve retired to the place of their retreat, where they can be safe from arrest by constables, and other officers who are prowling around the city from Carthage.

The people began to move away, but the band continued playing. John Kay also went on the corner stone and sang a song composed by Elder William W. Phelps, called the ``Capstone Song.'' The morning was very cold and chilly. The Saints seemed highly interested and pleased with the morning's performance. According to the request of President Young all works were suspended and the day was kept as a holiday.

A few minutes after the Twelve left the temple a constable came up with a summons for several of the brethern, but he could not find them. He had also a summons for Daniel Avery, and we had notified Avery of it and he was counseled to keep out of the way; but contrary to counsel he unwisely went and made himself known to the officer, who immediately served the process upon him. For this piece of conduct, and others as bad, a council of the Twelve and trustees dismissed him from the work and took Jesse P. Harmon, one of the old police in his stead.

25 May 1845, Sunday
Nauvoo 4

Sunday 25th ... At a little after 8 brother Kimball called and I went with him to Dr. Richards to meet with the quorum for prayer. Present Prest B. Young, H.C. Kimball, W. Richards, G.A. Smith, Amasa Lyman, John E. Page and O. Pratt of the Twelve. N.K. Whitney and G. Miller, Trustees, and Levi Richards, Patriarch John Smith, Joseph Young and myself. We had a good time and felt that our prayers would be answered. We broke up about half past eleven.

28 May 1845, Wednesday
Temple History, p. 158

On Wednesday the 28th of May the first ``bent'' of the attic story of the temple was raised by the carpenters, and up to this time they continued to raise the timber works with pleasing rapidity.

Thus the work of this temple has progressed from the beginning to the present time without any serious accident except in the incident which happened at the stone quarry. The blessing of God has attended the whole progress of the work, and it has advanced beyond our most sanguine expectations. Our enemines have threatened all the time, and for the last two years we have had very little cessation from writs and other efforts of the enemy to prevent our finishing it. Many prophecies have been uttered against it; but the Saints have invariably pursued a steady course of perseverance. As the building has progressed, the Saints have increased their donations and tithings; and this Spring has exceeded all past times for liberality and donations from the brethern.

29 May 1845, Thursday
Nauvoo 4
Thursday 29. ... Evening met at Dr Richards for prayer, in company with president B. Young, H.C. Kimball, W. Richards, John Taylor, Amasa Lyman, G.A. Smith, O. Pratt, and O. Hyde of the Twelve, N.K. Whitney and George Miller, Trustees, Joseph Young and Levi Richards. The subjects prayed for were many, especially that the Lord would over-rule the movements of Wm. Smith who is endeavoring to ride the Twelve down, and also that the Lord would over-rule the mob so that we may dwell in peace untill the Temple is finished. The council broke up about half past 12 o clock.
Allen 2, p. 165

On the evening of May 29 eight apostles, along with a few other church leaders and William Clayton, met in Willard Richards's home to seek the help of heaven. They prayed for many things, wrote Clayton, but especially ``that the Lord would over-rule the movements of Wm. Smith who is endeavoring to ride the Twelve down.''

31 May 1845, Saturday
Temple History, P. 158

This being Saturday, the 31st of May, 1845, I will now say the circuit court of this county (Hancock) has been in session the past two weeks. Nearly the whole of the time has been occupied in that trial of Jacob C. Davis, senator for this county, Thomas C. Sharp, editor of the Warsaw Signal, Levi Williams, a colonel of the militia, Mark Aldrich and a Mr. Grover, before Richard M. Young, for the murder of General Joseph and Hyrum Smith on the 27th of June, 1844. The verdict was brought in yesterday and returned ``Not guilty.''

Thus the whole State of Illinois has made itself guilty of shedding the blood of the Prophets by acquitting those who to take commited the horrid deed, and it is now left to God 59 to take vengeance in His own way and in His own time.
Allen 2, p. 158

From the testimony of brother Watt it appears the Judge Young is favorable to the mobocrats and manifests a disposition to acquit the murderers rather than bring them to justice. Calvin A. Warren also said if the prisoners were guilty of murder he himself was guilty, alleging that it was the public opinion that the Smiths ought to be killed, and public opinions make laws, and consequently it was not murder to kill the Smiths. Esqr. Browing also railed hard against the saints. In fact the whole proceedings of the court is nothing more than a farce, and it is evident there is no disposition on the part of the people to avenge the blood of the servents of God and it will yet be left for God himself to do it, in his own time and in his own way. 60

1 June 1845, Sunday
Nauvoo 4

Sunday 1st. ... Evening at Dr Richards with B. Young, H.C. Kimball, W. Richards J. Taylor, J.E. Page, O. Pratt, G.A. Smith, A. Lyman, John Smith, N.K. Whitney, G. Miller, L. Richards & Joseph Young. It was decided that Hanson translate the Doctrine and Covenants & Book of Mormon into the Norwegian language and that Er O. Pratt assist. Also decided that the Trustees give G.D. Watt a quarter of a Lot and build him a house and employ him as a reporter for the Church, and let his labors go towards paying for his house and lot. I read a part of the record which I prepared for a deposite, but it was not as full as president Young wanted and the council concluded to deposite all the Times & Seasons, to give a perfect history of the church in Nauvoo. Separated at 12 o clock.

5 June 1845, Thursday Nauvoo 4

Thursday 5th ... Evening met at Dr Richards for prayer in company with B. Young, H.C. Kimball, W. Richards, J. Taylor, O. Pratt, A. Lyman, J.E. Page, G. A. Smith, N.K. Whitney, G. Miller and Levi Richards. We separated at 12 o clock.

8 June 1845, Sunday
Nauvoo 4

Sunday 8th. A.M. at the office, afterwards at home all day. At 4 met at Dr Richards with B. Young, H.C. Kimball, J. Taylor, W. Richards, O. Hyde, O. Pratt, J.E. Page, G.A. Smith, A. Lyman, N.K. Whitney, G. Miller, L. Richards & J.C. Kingsbury. We had a very interesting time and separated about 9 o clock.

12 June 1845, Thursday
Nauvoo 4

Thursday 12th. ... At 4 o clock met at Dr Richards with Prest. B. Young, H.C. Kimball, W. Richards, G. A. Smith, A. Lyman, O. Pratt, N.K. Whitney, G. Miller, and Levi Richards. We had a very interesting time and separated about half past 8 o clock.

15 June 1845, Sunday
Nauvoo 4

Sunday 15th. At the office till 4 P.M. Afterwards at Dr Richards with B. Young, H.C. Kimball, W. Richards, O. Pratt, G.A. Smith, Amasa Lyman, N.K. Whitney, G. Miller, L. Richards & J. C. Kingsbury.

19 June 1845, Thursday
Nauvoo 4

Thursday 19th ... Afterwards at Dr Richards with President B. Young, H.C. Kimball, J. Taylor, W. Richards, O. Pratt, G.A. Smith, Amasa Lyman, O. Hyde, George Miller and Levi Richards. Prayers were offered up for many things especially that the curse of God may fall upon Judge Young and the Lawyers who have justified the murderers, and that they may not be able to hold court. Evening at home.

22 June 1845, Sunday
Nauvoo 4

Sunday 22nd. ... P.M met at Dr Richards with Prest B. Young, H.C. Kimball, J. Taylor, W. Richards, O. Pratt, Amasa Lyman, G.A. Smith, N.K. Whitney, George Miller, John Smith, L. Richards & J.C. Kingsbury Sister Richards is yet very sick and it was agreed that four of the company should go down with Er Richards to lay hands on her while the other remained to offer up prayers for her in the room. Ers J. Taylor, O. Pratt, J. C. Kingsbury, & myself were appointed to go with the Dr. He anointed his wife and we then laid hands on her. After we returned to the room prayers were offered up for sundry matters, especially that God would overrule the movements of our enemies. &c.

24 June 1845, Tuesday
Nauvoo 4

Tuesday 24th ... Wm. Smith has given bail for another brother of the Hodges who was incustody for robbing, and also beat brother Tufts shamefully yesterday for a matter of small consequence. Wm Smith is railing against the movements of the Twelve and says he has authority here to do as he has a mind to and the people shall know it. It appears he is determined to cause us trouble.

26 June 1845, Thursday
Nauvoo 4

Thursday 26th ... afterwards at Er Richards with Prest. B. Young H.C. Kimball, W. Richards, G.A. Smith, A. Lyman, O. Pratt, N.K. Whitney, G. Miller, J. Young, L. Richards and John Smith. brother Richards Rhoda Ann, brother Kimball, Brigham Willard, and brother Whitneys Mary Jane were blessed each with great blessings. The afternoon was spent in conversation and prayer till 8 o clock.

27 June 1845, Friday
Nauvoo 4

Friday 27th. ... All things seem to go right according to our prayers ... At 9 met at Dr. Richards with Prest. B. Young, H.C. Kimball, W. Richards, J. Taylor, A. Lyman, O. Pratt, G.A. Smith, J.E. Page, George Miller & Joseph Young Most of the day was spent in conversation on various subjects, and towards evening we clothed and consecrated 9 bottles of oil and offered up prayers for general matters afterwards I went to the mansion,

28 June 1845, Saturday
Nauvoo 4

Saturday 28th. ... A new revelation has come to light from mother Smith, corrected and altered by William Smith so as to suit his wishes by representing him as the legal successor of Joseph in the presidency.

29 June 1845, Sunday
Nauvoo 4

Sunday 29th ... At 4 met at Dr Richards in company with Prest. Young, H.C. Kimball, W. Richards, O. Pratt, A. Lyman, G.A. Smith, J. Taylor, N.K. Whitney, G. Miller, Josh. Young, and J.C. Kingsbury. Prayers were offered for a variety of subjects. Sister Richards is recovering.

30 June 1845, Monday
Nauvoo 4

Monday 30th. At the office till 4 P.M. council with Prest. Young & the Trustees about buying the lands lately owned by Prest. Smith which will be sold by the administrator tomorrow. It was agreed that I should bid them off for the Trustees. At 4 P.M. went to visit mother Smith in company with Prest. Young, H.C. Kimball, John Taylor, W. Richards, O. Pratt, A. Lyman, G. A. Smith, N.K. Whitney, G. Miller and R. Cahoon. A long conversation was had between her and Prest. Young pertaining to a vision she had last week, in which Wm. Smith is represented as president over the patriarchs to guide and council the church. I asked permission to copy it but she was unwilling. Wm. Smith did not meet with us but sent a letter, the following is a copy.

``Correspondence. William Smith to Brigham Young and the Council of the Twelve. Nauvoo June 30th 1845. Elder Young. It has been my purpose from the first to do all I could for peace. I said in a short note to you the other day that I would stand by you till death. But it might be asked upon what principle? I will answer, on the principle that I am dealt justly by in the church. The next morning after our meeting I notice an article that appears under the head of Patriarch. It is not so much the doctrine that I care about; it is the spirit of the article, a disposition that appears in the brethren to cut and shave me down to the last cent, every hour and minute in the day. I do not like it. And again, why was not the article shown to me as it was an article touching my office and standing in the church, nothing was said to me on the subject. This with other like circumstances since my return from the east, and for my hard labor there, have received no favor nothing but hints of men can be applauded to the skies, and that too for the fruits of other abuse, whilst other^ mens labors. I am sick and tired of such partiality. Only give me my just dues, that in truth, justice and honor demands, and all is well. I have often said and sufficient to satisfy all the saints that I was willing, it was my wish that you should stand as the President of the church, but I claim to be patriarch over the whole church, this gives me my place and proper standing, and what I inherit; and as to works, I am ready to measure arms with any man; give me what is due, then you know the understanding and the conversation we had on this subject when we met at brother Taylors that I was Patriarch over the whole church. This is what I claim and must have, and now to conclude as I understand you are to meet at mother Smiths to day, the 12 &c.&c. My proposition is my share of the kingdom and if you will publish in the Neighbor and Times & Seasons the true state of the case in regard to my office as patriarch over the whole church, this will give me a right to visit all branches of the church and intrude on no mans rights, and further, to attend to all of the ordinances of God, no man being my head, I will reconcile all difficulties and Elder Young can stand as the president of the church, and by my most hearty wish and consent. This will settle all difficulties and restore peace and good order, and further than this I cannot say, only that I want all men to understand that my fathers family are of the royal blood and promised seed and no man or set of men can take their crown or place in time or in eternity. Bro. Young the above is my proposition and will settle all difficulties at once and these are my avvid sentiments and no equivocation. Wm. Smith.'' To the foregoing president Young dictated an answer which I wrote, informing him that there could be no authority given to him, to place him in a situation where he would not be amenable to the quorum of the Twelve, and there are many ordinances which cannot be administered only here in this place &c. (The copy is mis laid). The answer was read to mother Smith and her daughters and they acknowledge they were satisfied with it. Mother Smith seem to feel well and said that although in her vision it was told to her that there was two men whose hearts were blacker than the rest, it was not any one who was then present. See July 4th. The company parted soon after six and brother Whitney and myself returned to the office to prepare an order and get the money ready to send to morrow to St Louis for the lead.