On a certain occasion they purchased, for what especial object we are not certified, four Egyptian mummies. One of these Smith is said to have ascertained to be Pharaoh's daughter! Accompanying these "subjects" was a specimen of Egyptian hieroglyphics, on a roll of papyrus. This "writing" the prophet roundly asserts to be “a manuscript of old Abraham;" and by means of it he professes to interpret Scripture, particularly the writings of Moses, as though Abraham had lived at a proper period for preparing a gloss on the Pentateuch!

It may seem incredible to many that such palpable absurdities should be gravely asserted by any human being. The writer is prepared, in this instance, to add his personal testimony, having heard this assertion from the lips of the prophet. On presuming to ask what evidence there was that the record in question was made by Abraham, said prophet seemed moved with anger. One of his obsequious followers, knowing the infirmities of his ghostly guide, replied for him: “Evidence enough, sir: why, if you could only see it you would not doubt: there is old Abraham himself all pictured out!" President Joseph soon deigned to add, "Besides, papyrus has never been manufactured since Abraham's day!"

Now, when such contradictory falsehoods can be unblushingly put forth, and implicitly believed as truth, we ask, what outrage may not be perpetrated upon the human understanding?