He gave Bennett of the _Herald_ his commission, which I opposed from the very first; and you now see, by that paper, the sport which that man has made of it. I tell you there is no dependence on the friendship of that editor, when his interest is at issue. I am assured that James Gordon Bennett is going to publish, conjointly with John C. Bennett, on half profit, the exposition against you and your people, which is going to contain a great number of scandalous cuts and plates. But don't be concerned; you will receive no injury whatever from any thing any man or set of men may say against you. The whole of this muss is only extending your fame, and will increase your numbers tenfold. You have nothing to expect from that part of the community who are bigotedly attached to other churches. They have always believed and still believe everything said to your disadvantage; and what General John C. Bennett is now saying in the papers is nothing more than what was common report before, throughout this whole community, insomuch that I had to contradict it in the _Herald_ under the signature of "Cincinnatus"--and even requested the Elders of the Mormon Church to do so long ago. You, therefore have lost not a whit of ground by it. I must in charity forbear commenting on the course of General Bennett in this matter. Considering all things delicacy forbids such a course. There are some things, however, I feel very sorely, and could wish they had not transpired. He and the _Herald_ will make money out of the book, and there the matter will end, as you will find that the _Herald_ will puff it to the skies. [A] [Footnote A: Bennett's book, "The History of the Saints, or an Exposure of Joseph Smith and Mormonism," was not published by the New York _Herald_, but by a Boston publishing house, Leland & Whiting, 71 Washington St. The book was a failure from every point of view, in structure, literary merit and convincing power. The insincerity and the corrupt-mindedness of the author is loudly proclaimed by the ribald spirit that pervades the whole work.] The books which I sent you you will retain in your hands for the present. {114} My respects to your amiable lady and all friends; and believe me as ever, though not a Mormon, your sincere friend, JAMES ARLINGTON BENNETT.