As early as the spring of 1832, the mob resorted to violence. In the still hours of the night, windows in many of the houses of the Saints were broken, and other damage done by their enemies, who naturally performed their deeds in the dark; but this was only the beginning of sorrow. The Mob Council July 20, 1833, a council of all Missourians who were opposed to the Latter-day Saints was called to meet in the Independence Court house. Between four and five hundred men assembled and chose Richard Simpson, chairman, and Samuel D. Lucas and J. H. Flournoy, secretaries. They then proceeded to discuss means for the ejection of the members of the Church from Jackson County, "peaceably if we can," they said, "forcibly if we must." After deliberating for some time, they concluded that "the arm of the civil law does not afford a guarantee," or at least a sufficient one, against the "evils" which were inflicted upon them. These "evils" were such that "no one could have foreseen," and "therefore, unprovided for by the laws;" and the "delays incident to legislation would put the mischief beyond remedy." They must because of this take into their own hands the matter of expulsion of hundreds of citizens from their homes. Some of the "evils" of the "Mormons" were stated to be as follows: The declaration that miracles have been performed and supernatural cures achieved among the sick; a belief in heavenly manifestations and that they have held converse with God and his angels; possession and exercise of the gifts of divination and unknown tongues; and "fired with the prospect of obtaining inheritance without money and without price." Yet they were well aware that the "Mormons" had never made the attempt to obtain lands except by purchase, as the Lord had commanded them. Nevertheless all these "crimes" must be punished; for against such evils "self preservation, good society and public morals," made demands that the "Mormons" should be expelled. The following articles were drawn up and unanimously approved, to be submitted to the elders of the Church. Declaration of the Mob (1). "That no Mormon shall in future move and settle in this county. (2). "That those now here, who shall give a definite pledge of their intention within reasonable time to remove out of the county, shall be allowed to remain unmolested until they have sufficient time to sell their property, and close their business, without any material sacrifice. (3). "That the editor of the _Star_ be required forthwith to close his office and discontinue the business of printing in this county; and as to all other stores and shops belonging to the sect, their owners must in every case strictly comply with the terms of the second article of this declaration; and upon failure, prompt and efficient measures will be taken to close the same.