Governor Ford’s Letter to the Mayor and Common Council of Nauvoo.
“Head Quarters, Carthage, June 21st, 1844.
“To the Hon. the Mayor and Common Council of the City of Nauvoo:
“Gentlemen,—Having heard of the excitement in this part of the country, and judging that my presence here might be necessary to preserve the peace and enforce the laws, I arrived at this place this morning. Both before and since my arrival, complaints of a grave character have been made to me of certain proceedings of your honorable body. As chief magistrate, it is my duty to see that impartial justice shall be done, uninfluenced by the excitement here or in your city.
“I think, before any decisive measure shall be adopted, that I ought to hear the allegations and defenses of all parties. By adopting this course I have some hope that the evils of war may be averted; and, at any rate, I will be enabled by it to understand the true merits of the present difficulties, and shape my course with reference to law and justice.
“For these reasons, I have to request that you will send out to me, at this place, one or more well-informed and discreet persons, who will be capable of laying before me your version of the matter, and of receiving from me such explanations and resolutions as may be determined on.
“Colonel Elam S. Freeman will present you this note in the character of a herald from the governor. You will respect his character as such, and permit him to pass and repass free from molestation.
“Your messengers are assured of protection in person and property, and will be returned to you in safety.
“I am, gentlemen, with high considerations, most respectfully your obedient servant, Thomas Ford, Governor and Commander-in-Chief.”[240]
[240] Des. News, No. 33, Oct. 21, 1857, p. 257.