In reference to the Affidavit of Elder William Clayton, on the subject of the Celestial Order of Patriarchal Marriage, published in the Deseret Evening News of May 20th 1886; and particularly to the statement made therein concerning myself, as having copied the original revelation written by Brother Clayton at the dictation of the Prophet Joseph, I will say that Bishop Newel K. Whitney handed me the revelation above referred to on either the day it was written or the day following, and stating that it was asked me to take a copy of it. I did so, and then read my copy of it to Bishop Whitney, who compared it with the original which he held in his hand while I read to him. When I had finished reading, Bishop Whitney pronounced the copy correct, and Hyrum Smith coming into the room at the time to fetch the original, Bishop Whitney handed it to him. I will also state that this copy, as also the original, are identically the same as that published in the present edition of the Book of Doctrine and Covenants.

I will add that I also knew that the Prophet Joseph Smith had married other women besides his first wife—Emma; I was well aware of the fact of his having married Sarah Ann Whitney, the eldest daughter of Bishop Newel K. Whitney and Elizabeth Ann Whitney, his wife. And the Prophet Joseph told me personally that he had married other women, in accordance with the revealed will of God, and spoke concerning the principle as being a command of God for holy purposes.

Joseph C. Kingsbury

Territory of Utah}

County of Salt Lake}ss