As already stated, there was some dissension in Zion's Camp on the way to Missouri. One of the chief offenders on that trip was Sylvester Smith, and when he returned to Kirtland he repeated many of his grievances against the Prophet Joseph Smith. This resulted in a trial before the Bishop, Newel K. Whitney, and the high priests, and after a full investigation, the Prophet was vindicated and Sylvester Smith after much persuasion made confession of his wrongdoing, and repented of his sin. The Law of Tithing Up to this time the Saints had donated of their means according to their disposition for the support of the Church. In Zion and Kirtland the law of consecration had been given; but it had not been generally practiced, and since the driving of the Saints from their homes, they were compelled to seek a living individually after the manner of the world. In the fall of 1834, Joseph Smith and Oliver Cowdery set an example for the Church by covenanting with the Lord that they would give one-tenth of all he should give them, to be bestowed upon the poor, as Jacob had covenanted centuries before. This was nearly four years before this law of tithing was given to the Church (Doc. and Cov. Sec. 119). Oliver Cowdery Assistant President December 5, 1834, Oliver Cowdery was ordained by Joseph Smith by the command of the Lord, an Assistant President of the High Priesthood, to hold the keys of presidency with Joseph Smith in this ministry. This was in harmony with the ordinations he received under the hands of John the Baptist and other holy messengers in 1829.[1] Temporary Peace Notwithstanding the Saints in Missouri were not permitted to return to their possessions, the spirit of opposition began to subside for a season, and the elders commenced going forth two by two, preaching the Gospel throughout the land, and many were added to the Church daily. The year 1834 came to a close with the Saints laboring diligently to build the house of the Lord in Kirtland, and in preparing for the School of the Elders which was to be held during the winter months. In January, 1835, the School of the Elders commenced. Lectures on theology were given and the study of the scriptures and other subjects were considered for the benefit of the members of the Church, in keeping with the revelations of the Lord. Twelve Apostles Chosen