"You heard Brother Pratt state, this morning, that a Revelation would be read this afternoon, which was given previous to Joseph's death. It contains a doctrine a small portion of the world is opposed to; but I can deliver a prophecy upon it. Though that doctrine has not been preached by the Elders, this people have believed in it for years. "The original copy of this Revelation was burnt up. William Clayton was the man who wrote it from the mouth of the Prophet. In the mean time it was in Bishop Whitney's possession. He wished the privilege to copy it, which Brother Joseph granted. Sister Emma (wife of Joseph Smith) burnt the original. The reason I mention this is, because that the people who did know of the Revelation, suppose it was not now in existence. "The Revelation will be read to you. The principle spoken upon by Brother Pratt this morning, we believe in. . . . "Many others are of the same mind. They are not ignorant of what we are doing in our social capacity. They have cried out proclaim it; but it would not do a few years ago; everything must come in its time, as there is a time to all things. I am now ready to proclaim it. "This Revelation has been in my possession many years; and who has known it? None but those who should know it. I keep a patent lock on my desk, and there does not anything leak out that should not."[166:A] The Revelation, so called, which was read at the close of this sermon, purports to have been given to Joseph Smith, July 12, 1843. It is very lengthy, consisting of twenty-five sections or paragraphs. It is published in full, in Burton's "City of the Saints," and in various other publications. The following synopsis exhibits all that is essential of this extraordinary Revelation. THE REVELATION. SECTION 1. "Verily, thus saith the Lord unto you, my servant Joseph, that inasmuch as you have inquired of my hand to know and understand wherein I, the Lord, justified my servants Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, as also Moses, David, and Solomon, my servants, as touching the principle and doctrine of their having many wives and concubines: Behold, and lo, I am the Lord thy God, and will answer thee as touching this matter." [The balance of this section is prefatory, declaring that a new law and everlasting covenant is about to be revealed, and that he who abides not that covenant shall be damned.] SEC. 2. All covenants, contracts, vows, etc., not made and sealed by the Holy Spirit of promise, of him who is anointed (Joseph Smith) both as well for time and for all eternity, are of no efficacy or force after the resurrection. SEC. 3 represents the necessity of having everything sanctioned by the Almighty. SECS. 4 and 5. Persons married for life only, or for time and eternity, but not by the proper authority, not bound to each other after this life.