Being a summary statement of the investigation made by the British government of the "Mormon" question in England

Rarely a day passes but the keen observer can find in the columns of sensational periodicals such captions as: “Beware of the ‘Mormons,’” “Capturing Soul-brides for Utah,” “Elders of ‘Mormon’ Church Entice Girls to Utah,” “Sleek-haired Devils in Sheep’s Clothing,” “Local Girl Kidnapped by ‘Mormon,’” etc., and under such headings an array of villifying accusations which make themselves obnoxious to thinking people. The “Mormon” elder, according to “yellow journalism,” is a villain of the deepest dye; he is a white-slave trafficker, and is charged with resorting to the basest practices to induce people to espouse his creed; in fact, he is charged with almost every crime on the calendar. And, strange to say, these charges are made by and at the instigation of Christian ministers, so-called.
But, says the man in the street, “If these charges are all false, men would not dare to make them!” And further, “If they are not true, why doesn’t the ‘Mormon’ Church as an institution prosecute the offenders?”
That is exactly the point: Are these accusations true, or are they false? Who shall say? “Let an impartial tribunal judge,” says one. Very good: “But,” says another, “whose is the prerogative to undertake such a task?” According to Professor Anson, in his book, The Law and Custom of the Constitution , “The Home Secretary is responsible for peace and good order throughout the land by (a) exercising a control over the elements of possible disorder, and (b) by supervising the police forces of counties and towns.” Therefore, since it is the duty of the Home Secretary, let us leave the matter entirely in his hands and await the outcome. Further, we will guarantee to the opposition that the defendants will remain absolutely mute during the whole trial, so as to eliminate the possibility of influencing the judge in favor of the “Mormons.” Further, we will concede to the affirmative the privilege of summoning to their aid all the forensic genius in the House of Commons, and grant them the privilege of presenting their brief in whatsoever manner they choose.