Minutes and Testimonies, 12–29 November 1838, Copy and Letter [State of Missouri v. Gates et al. for Treason]
Source Note
Minutes and Testimonies, [, Ray Co., MO], 12–29 Nov. 1838, State of MO v. Gates et al. for Treason (Fifth Judicial Circuit of MO 1838). Copied with letter ca. late 1838–ca. early 1839; unidentified handwriting; fifty-one pages; Mormons Collection, 1813–1970, Missouri History Museum.
I never heard make any inflammatory remarks, but I have looked upon him as one composing the first presidency, acting in concert with Joseph Smith Jr. approving by his presence, acts & conversations, the unlawful schemes of the presidency
I never saw and two of the Defnts. take any active part in the above measures testified to by me. And I have heard Joseph Smith Jr say he considered a coward & backward and ought to be forced out.
I was continually in the society <or company> of the presidency, receiving instructions from them, as to the teachings of the Danite band, and I continually informed them of my teachings, and they were well apprised of my course & teachings in the danite society.
The following of the Defens. were in the last expedition to Jos Smith Jr , Washington Vories, , , , Moses Clawson, , Ebenezer Page, , , , Henry Zabriskey, doubtful— . Maurice [Morris] Phelps, doubtful—