June 26, 1844

Carthage, Illinois

State v. Joseph and Hyrum Smith: In court, Joseph Smith moved for a change of venue on the charge of treason brought against him. Joseph Smith had two lawyers, Woods and Reid; the state had five. The motion was denied, and the case was continued until noon the next day, allowing time to bring witnesses to Carthage. They were taken back to jail, where Joseph Smith had an extensive interview with Governor Thomas Ford. Again Ford promised Joseph Smith and the other prisoners full protection. The hearing was changed to June 29, apparently without consulting the defendants.