<​March 16​> “, Illinois, March 16. 1840 I Jesse W. Johnstone Certify that the following circumstances took place in the State of while I was a Resident of that — viz— I was taken prisoner by ’s Exterminating militia— I saw one man killed belonging to the Mormon Church and was forced by them to take corn out of the Fields of the Mormon Church without leave, this was in the fall of 1838 Jesse W. Johnston”— Sworn to before C. M. Woods Clk Circuit Court Illinois

“, Hancock Co. Ill. March 17. 1840. Esqre. Dear and Honored Sir— It is with greatest pleasure I sit down to write to you at this time; to inform you of the situation and state of the Church as regards the object of your mission. Since President Joseph Smith returned we have been favored with several communications from you, giving a statement of the proceedings before the Committee &c— On monday evening last your letters were read to a large concourse of our brethren, and other persons who were assembled to hear the same, and I must say that the greatest satisfaction was manifested by the assembled multitude, with the [HC 4:96] noble stand and straightforward and honorable course which you had pursued, and before the assembly separated, a vote of thanks to you was unanimously agreed upon; I can assure you that from the feelings there, as well as upon other occasions, there is not only a disposition, but a fixed determination to uphold you in your righteous cause and sustain you in your efforts to obtain redress, for the injuries which the Saints have borne from their unfeeling oppressors, and in bringing their case before the authorities of the nation. In the evening the High Council assembled at the house of the President Joseph Smith Junr., and took your letters into consideration; when it was unanimously resolved that a letter should be written to you approving the measures which you were taking— The High Council likewise send you a list of the names of such persons as they think will testify to such facts as you want to substantiate—

The names are as follows:

There probably may be others, who may occur to your mind; whom you can send for if you think necessary, We should feel glad if you had <​the​> assistance of Prest. Smith and at this critical time, while you have to contend with , &c &c. However I hope you will go forth in the strength of the Lord; and that truth will prevail— and I would say “twice is he armed who [p. 1030]