In conversation with the Mormons, I remarked that miracles were wrought for a specific purpose—for an object worthy of a God; that they proved the divine authority of the Scriptures; that they were also wrought in public; and that men were capable judging whether they were wrought or not. "Now this," I added, "is not the case with your miracles. They have all the marks of imposition! You cannot see whether the pretended miracle was wrought or not. For instance, your prophet, Mr. Smith, pretends to give the true names of the individuals whose bones are found in the ancient mounds in this vicinity; and also to translate the hieroglyphics on ancient mummies. Now you cannot see, even if true, that a miracle is wrought. Besides it is impious and irreverent to suppose that God would stoop so low, as to grant your Mr. Smith the power of working miracles for the purpose of gratifying an idle curiosity."