SOURCE: "Citizens of Hancock County," in The Nauvoo Expositor, Vol. 1, No. 1, June 7, 1844.

In the following excerpt, dated June 5, 1844, the author attempts to dissuade the citizens of Hancock County from voting for Joseph Smith's brother Hyrum in an upcoming election by portraying Joseph Smith as an enemy of the U.S. government.

Citizens of Hancock County.

It is well known to all of you that the August election is fast approaching, and with it comes the great and terrible conflict. It is destined to be a day pregnant with big events; for it will be the index to the future.—Should we be defeated upon that occasion, our die is cast, and our fate is sealed; but if successful, alike may Joseph Smith, Hyrum Smith, and their devoted followers, as well as their enemies, expect that justice will be meted out. The present is portentious of the great effort...