The exodus was carried on as rapidly as circumstances would permit. Even in the inclement weather of the winter months the vanguard made their way eastward as far as Quincy, Illinois. Here they were met with a kindly welcome by the citizens of that place. Just where the Saints would locate was an indefinite problem, and the Prophet, still held in prison, could give them very little help. He advised them to locate in some friendly territory between Far West and Kirtland, where they might dwell in peace. It is likely that many of the refugees from Missouri, who started on their eastward journey expected to work their way back to the former settlements of the Saints in Ohio; but the hospitable treatment they received and the suggestions from the people of western Illinois, caused them to stop at Quincy. In fact, they could do little else in their stricken condition, and a kind word and a hand outstretched with relief, were most welcome. In Quincy an organization known as the Democratic Association extended every kindness to the exiles, and proffered to help them in their distress. Several meetings of this society were held, in which other citizens of Quincy took a part, in February and March of 1839. Sympathy was expressed for the "Mormons" and steps were taken to allay the prejudice of the misguided residents of Quincy, who felt an opposition to the Saints. At one of these meetings the "Mormons" were invited to attend, and Sidney Rigdon and others related the persecutions in Missouri, which account fell on sympathetic ears. Through this organization material assistance was given the Saints, and employment for many was provided. The organization voiced its disapproval of the evil treatment accorded the exiles while in Missouri, in the following resolutions: "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.