TO N.C. SAXTON
1833 FEBRUARY 12

FC Joseph Smith, Kirtland, Ohio, to N. C. Saxton, Rochester, New York, 12 February 1833, in Joseph Smith Letterbook 1, pp. 27-28, in hand of Frederick G. Williams, Joseph Smith Collection, LDS Church Archives.

Noting that the letter he had sent on 4 January to the Rochester newspaper editor had appeared in abbreviated form, Joseph again addressed Mr. Saxton on 12 February urging the importance of publishing the document in its entirety.465

To N C Sexton [Saxton] Rochester

Dear sir

I was somewhat disappointed on receiving my paper with only a part of my letter inserted in it. The letter which I wrote you for publication I wrote by the [p. 27] commandment of God, and I am quite anxious to have it all laid before the public for it is of importance to them, But I have no clame upon you, neither do I wish to urge you beyond that which is reasonable to do it. I have only to appeal to your extended generosity to all religious societies that claim that Christ has come in the flesh and also tell you what will be the consequence of a neglect to publish it some parts of the letter were very severe upon the wickedness of sectarianism I acknowledge and the truth, remember is hard and severe against all iniquity and wickedness, but this is no reason why it should not be published but the very reason why it should, It lays the axe at the root of the tree and I long to see many of the sturdy oaks which I have long cumbred the ground fall prostrate. I now say unto you that if you wish to clear your garments from the blood of your

readers I exhort you to publish that letter entire but if not the sin be upon your head

Accept sir the good wishes and tender regard of your unworthy servant

Joseph Smith Jr

Kirtland 12th Feby. 1833