A few years ago an inquiry was directed to the Utah Mormon Church historian at Salt Lake City, seeking information about Ethan Smith's book, "View of the Hebrews," or "The Tribes of Israel in America." The Church historian replied as follows:

"In answer to your communication I will say thatI understood B. H. Roberts wrote an article which was never published, but which has been circulated by members of his family since his death, dealing with Rev. Ethan Smith's book published in 1823. Elder Roberts did not leave a copy of his manuscript at this office." "We have in this office the Tribes of Israel in America. There is nothing outstanding in this book different from a score of others written one hundred years ago dealing with the American Indians. Mr. Smith like many others endeavored to prove that the Indians are the Lost Tribes of Israel. THERE IS NO INCIDENT IN THE BOOK OR ARGUMENT THAT IN ANY WAY CORRESPONDS TO THE BOOK OF MORMON." "You are at liberty to call at this office and see it." (Signed) "Very sincerely, Joseph Fielding Smith"