Mormon History 1830-1844

Oliver Cowdery to Joseph Smith, May 7, 1831
No change in Lamanite situation. Oliver Cowdery and Ziba Peterson visited Lafayette county in April and found some interest there. Missouri religionists, denominations. Expecting Parley's return.
Lamanites most engrossing subject in June 1831

The elders now began to go to the western Country two and two, according to the previous word of the Lord. <about this time> From P. P. Pratt. who had returned fromthis expedition<mission> of last fall, during the spring, we had verbal information, and from letters from the still remaining elders we had written intelligence; and as this was the most important subject which then engrossed the attention of the saints, I will here insert the copy of a letter received about this from that Section, <time we received the following Letter> dated at

  , 122–123.
    Kaw township (Mo.) May 7. 1831.    
No news re: Lamanites

Investigators in Lafayette county
Our dearly beloved Brethren, I have nothing particular to write as concerning the Lamanites; and because of a short Journey which I have Just returned from; in consequence of which I have not written to you, Since the 16th of last [123] month. I <myself> and br. Ziba <Peterson> went into the county east, which is L<F>ayette and is about 40 miles; And in the name of Jesus we called on the people to repent, many of whom are, I believe, earnestly searching for truth, and if sincerely, I pray they may find that precious treasure;—for it seems to be wholly fallen in the streets <so> that equity. <cannot enter.>    
Suffer shame for Jesus

Denominations foaming shame

The Letter we received from you informed us that the oposition was great against you; now our beloved brethren we verily believe that we also can rejoice that we are counted worthy to suffer shame for his name, for almost the whole country, which consists of universalist, Atheists, Deists, Presbyterians, Methodists, Baptists, and professed Christian priests, and people, with all the devils from the infernal pit, are united, and foaming out their own shame; God forbid that I should bring a railing accusation against them, for vengeance belongeth to him who is able to repay: and herein, brethren, we confide.

   
Navajo blankets made west of Santa Fe

I am informed of an other tribe of Lamanites, lately, who have abundance of flocks of the best kind of sheep and cattle, and they manufacture blankets of a superior quality. The tribe is very numerous; they live three hundred miles west of Santa Fe, and are called Navashoes; Why I mention this tribe is, because I feel under obligations to communicate to my branch every information concerning the Lamanites, that I meet with in <my> labors and travels, believing as I do that much is expected from me, in the cause of our Lord; and doubting not but I am daily remembered before the throne of the most High, by all of my brethren, as well those who have not seen my face in the flesh, as those who have.

   
Expect Parley's return We begin to expect our brother Pratt soon; we have heard from him only when he was at St. Louis. We are all well, (bless the Lord!) and preach the gospel we will. if earth and hell oppose our way. and we dwell in the midsdt of scorpions: for in Jesus we trust: grace be with you all. Amen    
  P. S. I beseech br. whitney to remember and write, and direct to me, Independence, Jackson Co. Missouri    
  Oliver Cowdery    
   
Kirtland 1830–1831
Missouri




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