their domestic affairs, preached at them, to them, for them. He told foolish anecdotes to make them laugh, encouraged their dancing to make them merry, got up theatrical performances to distract their minds, and made them work hard, certain of rendering them contented by-and-by. Feared with a stronger fear, venerated with a more rational veneration, but not loved with the same clinging tenderness that the people still felt for Joseph Smith, Brigham swayed them at his will. They learned to dread his iron hand, and were daunted by his iron heart."[10:A]
While he was thus consolidating his power, laying plans for the foundation of a monarchy more despotic than that of Austria, important changes were going on in the political condition of the country. Mexico was conquered, and much of its territory, including Utah, was annexed to the United States, and the Mormons thus again brought within the jurisdiction of the Federal Government.
From this era in Mormon affairs Brigham appears in so many different characters that his history can only be fully written by considering him in his various rôles,—as "Governor of Utah and Superintendent of Indian Affairs;" "President of the Church, Prophet, Seer, and Revelator;" "Trustee in Trust for the Church;" "President of the Emigration Company;" "Lord of the Harem;" "Eloheim, or Head God;" and "Grand Archee of the Order of the Gods."
FOOTNOTES:
[10:A] Mormonism; its Leaders and Designs, by John Hyde, Jr. New York: W. P. Fetridge & Co. 1857. Page 144.
CHAPTER II.
POLITICAL.
Brigham as Governor of Utah and Superintendent of Indian Affairs.—Formation of the State of Deseret.—Proceedings of the Utah Legislature.—Brigham's Proclamations.—Difficulties with the Federal Officers.—Proceedings of the first Judges.