<​December 7​> very friendly feelings were manifested, on the occasion, Our business was taken up and [HC 4:43] stated that he had asked the opinion of Judge [Hugh] White of Tennessee, of Mr. Wright and several other members; whose names we do not recollect, but were prominent members of the Senate— They all declined giving an opinion at present, as it was a matter that they had not considered sufficiently to decide upon at this time. The meeting then after some deliberations decided in our favor, which decision was that a memorial and petition be drawn up in a concise manner (our Representatives promising so to do) and present them to the Senate, that they might thereby refer it to the proper Committee, with all the accompanying documents and order the same to be printed— We want you to assist us now; and also to forward us your Certificates, that you hold for lands in ; your claims to pre-emption rights, and affidavits to prove that Soldiers were quartered on us and in our houses without our consent, or any special act of law for that purpose; Contrary to the Constitution of the , We think and others will recollect the circumstances and facts relative to this matter— you will also recollect the circumstances of brother Joseph and others, being refused the privilege of by the authorities of , These facts must be authenticated by affidavits— Let any particular transaction of the outrages in , that can be sworn to by the sufferers, or those who were eye witnesses to the facts, be sent; specifying the particulars. Have the evidence bonâ fidê to the point; The house of Representatives, is not yet organized much feeling and confusion have prevailed in the House for a few days past: the House succeeded in electing Chairman pro tem on 5th. inst. They have not yet elected their Speaker or clerk— The Senate can do nothing of consequence until the House is organized, neither can the ’s message until then be received— We design taking a paper and forwarding it to you— Your brethren in the bonds of the everlasting Covenant— Joseph Smith Jr.— —”