Tales of slander against the Saints have been circulated around us already. The list of lies which we have seen in print here, might bleach the memory of many a vile traducer in other lands. From the rise of the Church to the death of Joseph, all the principal facts have been changed for the foulest misrepresentations. But this is a small part of our difficulties. We have to preach on the one hand to a people nominally Protestants, but who have been, from time immemorial, in a church where organized dissent has been unknown. The people regard any innovation as an attempt to drag them from the banner of their martyred ancestry. On the other hand, we have the Catholics, with their proud pretensions to a priesthood of apostolic origin. Our presence in this land is only just tolerated and not recognized as any right, founded upon established laws. Liberty is only as yet in the bud; and the poet says, "The bud may have a bitter taste." But while surrounded with difficulties that seem loftier than the snow-crowned Alps, I can lift up my head as a servant of God, and rejoice in the anticipation of final triumph. Our course is often dark and difficult; but I believe that, however slow it may be for a while, it will ultimately brighten with complete success. Popery, ignorance, and superstition form a three-fold barrier to our efforts. Strange customs, laws and languages surround us on every side. In a word, we feel that we are in Italy--the polluted fountain which has overspread the earth with her defiling waters. LaTour is the principal town in the Protestant valleys. Here is a large Catholic chapel with a number of officiating priests. There is a Protestant college, with several professors, and about seventy students. They have also a large chapel in course of erection, principally by English liberality. Having thus given you a sketch of my travels and proceedings, I close with my kind love to yourself and family, Elders Kimball and Richards, and all the Saints. I am, dear President Young, yours very affectionately, Lorenzo Snow. President Brigham Young, Great Salt Lake City, California. CHAPTER XXI. Joseph Smith.--His anxiety on the subject of religion.--Secret vocal prayer.--A brilliant light envelops him.--Two personages appear.--The Lord speaks to Joseph.--Instructs him.--He has another vision.--Is shown where records are deposited.--Obtains and translates them.--Testimonies of the Witnesses.--Baptisms.--Church organized.--Temple built.--Gifts manifested.--Saints leave Kirtland.--Scenes in Jackson County.--Extreme Suffering.--Expulsion.--Memorial to Congress. As an appropriate historical gem, rich with _multum in parvo_ (much in a small compass), I copy into this autobiography, a tract entitled, "The Voice of Joseph," which my brother wrote and published for the benefit of his Southern Europe and East India Missions. THE VOICE OF JOSEPH.