JS, Authorization, , Hancock Co., IL, for , 1 June 1843; manuscript form in handwriting of with manuscript additions in handwriting of and ; signature of JS; dockets in handwriting of and ; two pages; JS Collection, CHL.
To all saints, and honorable men of the earth. Greeting
Dear Brethren and friends. I Joseph Smith, a servant of the Lord, and Trustee in trust for the church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints, do hereby certify that the bearer hereof, an elder and one of the twelve apostles of the church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints, has deposited with me his bond and security, to my full satisfaction, according to the resolution of the Conference held in this on the 6th. day of April last. He therefore is recommended to all Saints and honorable people, as a legal agent 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 noblemen, I can fervently 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]) -[Haura ang Yeesh rau ale.]- The friend of Israel, and worthy to be received and entertained as a man of God: yea; he has, as had the ancient Apostles [4 Greek words] -[o logos o kalos]-thegoodword even the good word that leadeth unto eternal life. Laus Deus. Praise God.
Wherefore brethren and friends, while you have the assurance of the integrity, fidelity, and ability of this servant of the living God I trust that your hearts and energies will be enlivened and deeply engaged in the building of these houses, directed by revelation for the salvation of all Saints; and that you will not rest where you are, until all things are prepared before you and you are gathered home with the rest of Israel to meet your God— I feel strong in the belief and have a growing expectation that you will not withhold any means in your power that can be used [p. [1]]