That day General Lucas demanded the arms of the "Mormons," promising them
protection, and the return of their guns after the trouble was over; but no
sooner had the mob obtained possession of the arms then they began stealing
and carrying away everything they could lay their hands on. They also
destroyed much property and abused innocent women and children. Those of
the brethren that had property were compelled to sign it away to the mob.
On the evening of November 1st, General Lucas held a court in which Joseph
and his brethren were to be tried. This court was composed of seventeen
preachers and some army officers. None of the prisoners were present, and
knew nothing of what was going on. The brethren were found guilty and
sentenced to be shot next morning at eight, o'clock, on the public square
in Far West. When the sentence was passed Generals Doniphan and Graham said
it was murder, and they would have nothing to do with it. This checked
Lucas in his evil designs and so they decided to take the prisoners to
Jackson county and kill them there. Before starting, they were allowed to
go to their homes and see their families, but they were not permitted to
speak to them.
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