"Resolved, that we regard the rights of conscience as natural and inalienable, and the most sacred guaranteed by the Constitution of our free government.
"Resolved, that we regard the acts of all mobs as flagrant violations of law; and those who compose them, individually responsible, both to the laws of God and man, for every depredation committed upon the property, rights, or life of any citizen.
"Resolved, that the inhabitants upon the western frontier of the state of Missouri, in their late persecutions of the class of people denominated 'Mormons,' have violated the sacred rights of conscience, and every law of justice and humanity.
"Resolved, that the governor of Missouri, in refusing protection to this class of people, when pressed upon by a heartless mob, and turning upon them a band of unprincipled militia, with orders encouraging their extermination, has brought a lasting disgrace upon the state over which he presides."
The Saints also were kindly received by Governor Thomas Carlin and United States Senator Richard M. Young, and many other prominent citizens of western Illinois.
In a communication to the Quincy _Argus_, Elder John Taylor expressed the gratitude of the "Mormon" people, and said they felt under peculiar obligations to the citizens of Quincy; but he warned them against imposition on the part of any who may pretend to belong to the community of Latter-day Saints, but who were not--either those who never belonged to the Church, or those who, for cause, had been expelled.
While the sympathies of these good people were, without question, given in sincerity, nevertheless there was more or less selfishness connected with their action. It is quite evident, from events to follow, that they expected to obtain some political and business advantages, out of the kindness extended to these destitute and stricken refugees, who sought a haven of peace and rest within the borders of the state. The expulsion from Missouri occurred shortly before one of the most intense presidential elections, and a residence within the State of Illinois for six months gave the citizens a right to vote. The politicians on both sides lost no opportunity to seek the advantage which the "Mormon" vote would bring; and the "Mormons," too heavily engaged with thoughts of recent persecutions, and hopes of building communities where they could dwell in perfect peace, failed to comprehend the situation in which they were being placed. By siding with one faction, it was bound to alienate the other, and thus cause bitterness of feeling which might not be overcome. In course of time such proved to be the case.