discussion. On our arrival at the place
agreed upon I learned that all necessary arrangements had been
made. The subject was:

"Is the Book of Mormon of Divine authenticity, and has it come
forth in direct fulfillment of prophecy found in the Old and New
Testaments; and is Joseph Smith Divinely inspired and called of
God?"

There was a large concourse of people assembled. The discussion
lasted two days. At the close of the debate the judge decided
that the Mormons brought forth the strongest reasonings and
Scriptural arguments, and that the other side had the best of the
Mormons in sarcasm and abuse.

When I was about to leave, Brother Young exchanged horses with
me, he keeping my pony, and giving me a fine blooded black mare.
I was then built up, so far as a good outfit for traveling was
concerned. Brother Young traveled with me as far as Indian Creek,
Putnam County, twenty-five miles southeast, as report said that a
couple of Mormons had been there. We concluded to visit the place
and learn the facts.

This was about the 1st of March. It was Saturday when we arrived
there. We rode at once to the Methodist chapel. Here we found
several hundred people assembled - the most distressed and
horrified worshipers my eyes had ever beheld. Their countenances
and actions evinced an inward torture of agony. Some of them were
lying in a swoon, apparently lifeless; others were barking like
dogs; still singing, praying, and speaking in tongues - their
eyes red and distorted with excitement.

The chapel was situated in a yard surrounded with trees. I was so
overcome with amazement and surprise that I forgot I was on
horseback. The first I remember was that a man had led my horse
inside the gate and was pulling me off, saying:

"Come, get down, you are a Mormon preacher; we are having fine
times."

Presently a chair was set for me by some rational person, and I
leaned my head upon my hands and commenced praying. I was a
stranger, both to the people and to their religious exercises. I
was puzzled, not knowing what to do.

There was a young woman, about eighteen years of age, of handsome
form and features, in her stocking feet, her beautiful black hair
hanging down over her shoulders in a confused mass. She was
preaching what she called Mormonism, and warning the multitude to
repent and be baptized, and escape the wrath of God. In front of
her stood a young Methodist minister, to whom she directed her
remarks.

He smiled