[13]. History of the Church, vol. I, p. 11-19; also Pearl of Great Price (1902 edition) pp. 88-96.
[14]. It will be observed by the reader that in the reported interview between Joseph Smith and Moroni, as given by Oliver Cowdery above, there are a number of very remarkable predictions both concerning Joseph Smith and the work he is bringing forth, all of which are considered in vol. I of this work, chapter 20.
[15]. P. 56.
[16]. Joseph Smith, see ante.
CHAPTER V.
THE TRANSLATION OF THE RECORD.—MARTIN HARRIS AS AMANUENSIS.
Following the account of how Joseph Smith obtained the Book of Mormon it should be known how he translated it, and what difficulties attended that work. I would remind the reader, in passing, that I am to deal with a remarkable narrative, one in which strange things occur, and one in which many who deny or doubt the power of God will be inclined to have little faith. To such I would say, judge nothing hastily, dismiss nothing petulantly, patient investigation, and sometimes suspension of judgment in relation to matters difficult of belief are necessary to the ascertainment of truth, and in such manner wise men, anxious to know the truth, proceed.
The Prophet, in his narrative, quoted in the preceding chapter, tells us that he soon found out the reason why he had received such a strict injunction to carefully guard the Nephite record and the Urim and Thummim; and why it was that Moroni has said that after he (Joseph) had done what was required at his hands, he (Moroni) would call for them. "For no sooner was it known," says Joseph, "that I had them, [the Nephite plates] than the most strenuous exertions were used to get them from me; every stratagem that could be invented was resorted to for that purpose; the persecution became more bitter and severe than before, and multitudes were on the alert continually to get them from me if possible."[[1]]
Rumor, with her thousand tongues, he informs us, was all the time employed circulating tales about his father's family, and about himself; and doubtless much of that misrepresentation which followed the prophet and his father's family throughout his life had its origin about this time.