Sir,

I have received your petition for a detachment of Militia to assist you in retaking Joseph Smith Jr representing him to have escaped from your custody after having been arrested on a warrant granted for his apprehensioin. I have also received a , and some affidavits adverse to the prayer of your petition. I have also to inform you that I had heard, before your arrival in this of the escape of Smith, and rumours, that he had been rescued by a Military force. Deeming these rumours of sufficient importance to justify me in so doing, I did, on the 4th day of this present month, despatch a trusty and competent person, as my agent to collect information of the vaious matters contained in your petition; and you will I hope at once see the propriety of all action being suspended on my part, until I can receive the most authentic and unquestionable information, as to the movements complained of.