Account of Trial, [, Hancock Co., IL], 24–28 May 1845, State of IL v. Williams et al. (Hancock Co., IL, Circuit Court 1845); handwriting of ; 101 pages; Wilford Wood Museum, Bountiful, UT; images in Joseph Smith Murder Trial Papers, 1844–1845, CHL.
I presume I had conversations with them about this matter— I never told them that I did not know who killed the Smiths— I have been offered $2500 not to appear against these men— the offer was made when I lived in by men I did not know— have never Seen them since— This offer was made along in during last summer, I think it was before the last Term of the Circuit Court in this place— It was made by two men, on third Street below Jersey— They met me in the Street— asked me who I was, I told them— they were young men— of moderate size— did not take particular notice whether they were of the same size or not— we were in conversation not more than a minute— They told me their business, and as they wheeled round showed me some money— <Said> that they would give me $1500 in money and $1000 in land if I would not appear at Court— I turned away from them immediately— cant say what time of day it was— I did not worry about the proposition much— I thought of it Some <afterwards—>— I thought it a good deal of money to offer a man— I cant say whether it was noon or in the afternoon— Did not take notice how they were dressed— dont know whether, they had on hats <hats> or caps— [p. 34]