KIRTLAND, OHIO, February 17, 1835.

Chapter XIX.

The Prophet's Return From Michigan to Kirtland—His Address to the Elders of the Church.

Minutes of the High Council of Kirtland—Trial of Almon W. Babbitt.

On the 19th, a charge was preferred before a council of the Presidency, against Elder Almon W. Babbitt, for not keeping the Word of Wisdom; for stating the Book of Mormon was not essential to our salvation, and that we have no articles of faith except the Bible.

Elder J. B. Smith testified that Elder Babbitt had assumed the prerogative of dictating to him in his preaching; and that he was not keeping the Word of Wisdom.

Elder Babbitt said that he had taken the liberty to break the Word of Wisdom, from the example of President Joseph Smith, Jun., and others, but acknowledged that it was wrong; that he had taught the Book of Mormon and Commandments as he had thought to be wisdom, and for the good of the cause; that he had not intended to dictate to Elder J. B. Smith, but only to advise with him.

The council reproved Elder Babbitt, and instructed him to observe the Word of Wisdom, and commandments of the Lord in all things; also that it is not advisable for any Elder to take his wife with him on a mission to preach.

Warren Parrish, Clerk.

Conference at Saco, Maine.

Seven of the Twelve met in conference at Saco, Maine, August 21st.

The church in that place numbered fifty-seven; the Dover branch in New Hampshire, eight.

The council gave instructions on the redemption of Zion, the building of the Temple in Kirtland, and the printing of the word of God to the nations, etc., etc.; and some were added to the Church during their stay.

The church in Saco contributed seventy or eighty dollar, to assist the Twelve to return home, which the Twelve recorded as a memento in their behalf, according to covenant.

Return of the Prophet to Kirtland.

Sunday, August 23rd—I arrived at Kirtland from my visit to Michigan

John E. Page.

On the 24th the High Council at Kirtland ordained Jonathan Stevens an Elder, and instructed him and his sons, Uzziel and Lyman, and his son -in-law, John E. Page,[[1]] Elders, to locate their families and then go forth and preach the Gospel; also that Joseph H. Tippits and J. W. Tippits go to Missouri this fall to purchase land for the church in Essex, New York, according to previous appointment by the voice of said church.