To The Patrons of the Times and Seasons

Having made arrangements to assist Bro. D. C. Smith in conducting the Times and Seasons, I would observe that great responsibilities are envolved [involved] and it is important that no other desire but to communicate truth and correct principles should pervade the minds of those who have the management of the same. Thousands are looking to it as a source of correct information respecting the doctrines and ordinances of our holy religion, both in this and other nations, and it has been a means in the economy of God of removing much prejudice, and throwing a flood of light into places where the elders of Israel have not visited, and has also been a source of comfort and happiness to many of the Saints who reside at remote distances from this place.

To maintain its character, and to make it interesting to the saints and to the lovers of truth, shall be my constant study, and I shall, conjointly with Brother Smith, avail myself of every opportunity of giving the earliest information of all important matters respecting doctrine, revelation, and the general affairs of the church.

If, in this undertaking, I shall advance the cause of TRUTH, or be the means of administering comfort to the meek and persecuted saint of God, I shall feel myself abundantly rewarded.

R. B. Thompson.

Nauvoo, May 1st, 1841.