Evidently with the best of intentions, Judge John F. Ryland, on the 10th of June 1834, wrote to Algernon S. Gilbert offering to call a meeting in Liberty on the 16th, for the purpose of allaying the "disturbances between the Mormons and the citizens of Jackson County." A similar communication was sent to prominent citizens of Jackson County. In their answer Elders John Corrill and A. S. Gilbert expressed a willingness to meet, but declared that under no condition would the Saints sell their property in Jackson County. On the 16th, the proposed meeting was held. A deputation from Jackson County was present and made a proposition to this effect: They would buy all the lands that the "Mormons" own in Jackson County, and also all improvements, the value of said land to be determined by three disinterested parties; twelve of the "Mormons" would be permitted to go into Jackson County, to show their lands and improvements; the purchase was to be made within thirty days after the decision was reached, and one hundred per cent would be added to the appraisement. On the other hand, the "Mormons" were offered all the lands of the citizens of Jackson on the same terms. This proposition was signed by ten men who stated they were authorized to take this action. After the reading of the proposition Samuel C. Owens, one of the Jackson committee, made a war speech and was followed by Rev. Riley who declared that "the Mormons have lived long enough in Clay County; and they must clear out, or be cleared out." The moderator of the meeting. Mr. Turnham, replied: "Let us be republicans; let us honor our country, and not disgrace it like Jackson County; don't disfranchise or drive away the Mormons. They are better citizens than many of the old inhabitants." General A. W. Doniphan arose and said: "That's a fact, and as the Mormons have armed themselves, if they don't fight they are cowards. I love to hear that they have brethren coming to their assistance. Greater love can no man show, than he who lays down his life for his brethren." At this instant pistols and knives were drawn and the cry was raised at the door that a man was stabbed. The mass instantly rushed out to see what had happened, and the meeting broke up in confusion. Unfairness of the Proposition