984

MORMONS CONTEND ABOUT NEW LEADERS.

1844.

the least delay would have caused its waves to flow over and engulph him. He lived long enough for his fame, and died when he could just he called a martyr. He had become too violent and impatient, to control, for any length of time, the multitude   he could begin, but not successfully conduct, a revolution.

" The murder of their Prophet exasperated the people of Nauvoo. They were ready, and a vast majority determined, on immediate war to the knife, with all engaged in that horrid tragedy, or whoever might come to abet them. A few more sagacious minds perceived the danger of such a course, and began skillfully to prevent the utter ruin of their hopes, likely to result from open hostility to the State. They harangued them on the stand, and talked with the clubs collected at the corners of the streets. The great drum was beating to arms. It was a fearful struggle, that was going on in the breasts of the prudent. Revenge was deep in every heart, and the bursting movement there was interpreted to be the voice of the Holy Spirit; and it was made audible in the terrible curses poured forth on the Gentile murderers. The ' time to fight' wras, by most, supposed to have come. But skillful delays were interposed by the influential; their arms had been just surrendered, and a new organization made, and leaders were to be chosen.

" The day passed off and no companies had started, and wrath was bosomed for the morrow. In the morning after, the congregation was early collected at the temple square or gathering place. The chief apostles promised them the vengeance of heaven upon their enemies, but that they were not ripe enough, for the vials of wrath to empty their torments upon them. Shortly the pestilence, the fire and the sword, would do their work.

"The funeral pageant next absorbed all their attention. The mourning was sore, sad and deep, over the beloved patriarch Hyrum, and the adored prophet Joseph.

" The struggle for the leadership, the Seer succession, which followed, however, soon dissipated the sorrow for the past. Rig-don, as second in rank, claimed promotion ; also by former revelations, declared himself assigned to be their prophet. He called a meeting and proclaimed his position as head. James J. Strang contended for the place of Seer, and showed letters, over the deceased prophet's signature, assuring him that he should be the successor in the event of Joseph's death. But the College of the Twelve had other views, and a vote on the subject. They declared that definite restrictions, and the last will and testament of Joseph had been delivered to them in secret council.   It revoked all former