Portrait of Hyrum Smith, the Patriarch

1]2 IMPRO VEMENT ERA.

fulness of the gospel was revealed to him by ministering angels, with many other precious truths, which finally led to the publica-

tion of the Book of Mormon and the organization of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, with power and authority from God, because of what was conferred upon Joseph, to officiate in the name of the Lord. Joseph Smith's testimony, concerning these things, in later life,was as simple, straightforward, plain and true as it had been in childhood; his fidelity, courage, and love, implanted in and char-

acteristic of his life in boyhood, neither faltered nor changed. One marked illustration of this was his love for children. He never saw a child but he desired to take it up and bless it, and

many he did so bless, taking them in his arms and upon his knee. I have myself sat upon his knee. He was so fond of children that he would go far out of his way to speak to a little one, which is to me a striking characteristic of true manhood. His was true love for the human race. His life was definitely characteristic of the great principle expressed in his prayer in Liberty jail. (Doctrine and Covenants, section 121 : 39). He re- proved at times with sharpness, when moved upon by the Holy Ghost, but afterward showed forth an increase of love toward him whom he reproved, lest the latter should esteem him an enemy. He was full of charity toward all men, and virtue indeed garnished his thoughts. He exercised dominion and authority by persuasion, long-suf- fering, gentleness, meekness, and love unfeigned, until kindness and pure knowledge enlarged his manly soul without hypocrisy and without guile. He waxed strong in the presence of God, and the doctrine of the Priesthood distilled upon his soul as the dews from heaven. Can such a tree bring forth evil fruit? No; verily, no. When, at last, having demonstrated these qualities all his days, he freely gave his life for his testimony and his people, he had succeeded in outlining the work of the Lord, and in revealing to mankind the foundation principles of all progress and salvation.

I know, and have known, from my childhood, that he was a prophet of God, and I believe in his divine mission with all my heart; and in the authenticity and inspiration of the revelations which he re-