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Show 132 justify and rationalize the new policy while making i t appear more a t t r a c t i v e: The prospect of ancient "Mormonism," of again leaving our homes, probably gives a spring to our feelings, especially since we, for the first time, have the privilege of laying waste our improvements, and are not obliged to leave our inheritances t o strangers to enjoy and revel in the fruits of our labors. It is a consolation to me that I have the privilege of laying in ashes and in the dust the improvements I have made, rather than those who would cut my throat, solely for my faith, shall inhabit my buildings and enjoy my fields and f r u i t s . Heretofore I have often left my home and the fruits of my labours for others to enjoy.... There is a great deal of inquiry as to whether we shall be under the necessity of burning. We are now under the necessity of preparing for i t, and that is enough for the p r e s e n t . . .. The Lord i s leading t h i s people as he designs for the building up of his kingdom, and we need not worry about i t . . .. We are able to defend this city and keep out our enemies; but if we prove to our Father in heaven and to one another that we are willing to band back to him that which he has given us, (which i s not a sacrifice,) and that we love not the world nor the things of the world, he will preserve the people u n t i l they can become righteous. You never heard me say that we would stick to t h i s city; but we will defend ourselves against the floods of iniquity which our enemies wish to overwhelm us with by the introduction of a licentious and corrupted s o l d i e r y . . .. Some may marvel why the Lord says, "Rather than fight you enemies, go away." It i s because many of the people are so grossly wicked, that, were we to go out to fight, thousands of the Elders would go into eter- |