To the Elders Scattered Abroad
Times and Seasons, vol. 2, p. 340
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints
Beloved Brethren:-
The time having arrived when it is necessary that we should know how many are on the Lord's side, how many there are laboring in the vineyard and trying to roll the great wheel in these last times; it is therefore requested that all those that hold the office of an elder in the church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints should notify the Clerk of the Quorum by letter post piad [paid], that we may know where to find them; for the time has come, when it is necessary that every one should render an account of his stewardship if he wishes to continue any longer steward. Dear Brethren, the reason of this requisition is because we hear that there are some traveling in the world calling themselves elders of the church, who have neither license or recommend from us, by whom the way of truth is evil spoken of. There are also others who have gone out from us because they were not of us, they are unclean persons, some of whom have fled from justice, they keep not the commandments neither the word of wisdom, they have a covering but not of my Spirit saith the Lord. The savior said it is written man shall not live by bread alone but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.-Also, he that breaketh the least of my commandments, and shall teach men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; therefore Beloved Brethren, we beseech you, arm yourselves with the whole armor of God, teach the doctrine of Christ, keep the word of wisdom, be faithful in a few things, and God will make you ruler over many, even so-Amen.
JOHN A. HICKS, Pres't
Samuel Henderson, Clerk.
N. B. All those who have formerly belonged to the quorum of Elders and have joined the quorum of Seventies since last spring Conference, will please notify the Clerk of the Elders quorum, if by letter, post paid.