JS as trustee-in-trust for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Draft of Authorization, , Hancock Co., IL, 27–31 May 1843; handwriting of ; signature of JS in the handwriting of ; dockets in handwriting of and ; three pages; JS Collection, CHL.
To all saints, and honorable men of the earth. . . Greeting:—
DearBrenthrenAndfriends:— I Joseph Smith, a servant of God <the Lord>, and Trustee in trust for the oftheLord<God >at , do hereby certify, that the bearer hereof, , an , and <one> of the of the , has deposited with me his bond and security, to my full satisfaction, according to the resolution of the held in this , on the 6th day of April last.
He, therefore is recommended to all saints and honorable people, as a legal to collect funds for the purpose of building the , and of the Lord. Confident that he will honor this high trust, as well as ardently fulfil his commission as a messenger of peace, and salvation, as one of the Lord’s noble men, I can fervantly say may the Lord clear his way before him, and bless him, and bless those that obey his teachings wherever there are ears to hear and hearts to feel. He is, in the language of the Hebrews [2 Hebrew words] the friend of Israel, and worthy to be received and entertained as a man of God: yea: he has, as had the ancient apostles ([1 Greek word] [4 Greek words] -[o logos o kalos]-thegoodword: even the good word that leadeth unto eternal life. Laus Deus. Praise God.
Reposing great confidence in his integrity and feel ◊◊◊ a desire to interest and awaken the sensiblities of all <who> may bey be the subjects of his mission. that he may recieve that reward which the faithful should receive from all saints and honorable men, who are willing to honor the Lord by [p. [1]]