For three years, Joseph had defended the plates from individuals who wished to obtain them (Gutjahr 17). First, treasure hunters attempted to steal the plates for their value as an artifact. Later, a mob threatened to tar and feather Joseph if he refused to show them the writing on the plates (Gutjahr 19). Joseph recruited wealthy farmer Martin Harris for financial support; Harris helped him translate by recording what Joseph dictated. Desiring confirmation of their authenticity, Harris took the plates to several language scholars. He claimed that one of the scholars, Charles Anthon, had confirmed that the plates were genuine but then withdrew his endorsement. Anthon denied he had ever made such confirmation, but it was enough for Harris. Throughout the whole process, Joseph maintained strict secrecy—no one but he was allowed to see the plates during translation. Even with Harris, Joseph translated from behind a curtain (Gutjahr 20). This led Harris to begin to doubt again if the operation was a hoax. Joseph allowed him to take the partially completed manuscript to show to his family. Harris did so, but became so loose with the manuscript that he would show it to almost anyone who asked (Gutjahr 21). Then the manuscript, which was known as the Book of Lehi, disappeared forever. Following this, the angel Moroni returned to Joseph and commanded him to return the plates and
For three years, Joseph had defended the plates from individuals who wished to obtain them (Gutjahr 17). First, treasure hunters attempted to steal the plates for their value as an artifact. Later, a mob threatened to tar and feather Joseph if he refused to show them the writing on the plates (Gutjahr 19). Joseph recruited wealthy farmer Martin Harris for financial support; Harris helped him translate by recording what Joseph dictated. Desiring confirmation of their authenticity, Harris took the plates to several language scholars. He claimed that one of the scholars, Charles Anthon, had confirmed that the plates were genuine but then withdrew his endorsement. Anthon denied he had ever made such confirmation, but it was enough for Harris. Throughout the whole process, Joseph maintained strict secrecy—no one but he was allowed to see the plates during translation. Even with Harris, Joseph translated from behind a curtain (Gutjahr 20). This led Harris to begin to doubt again if the operation was a hoax. Joseph allowed him to take the partially completed manuscript to show to his family. Harris did so, but became so loose with the manuscript that he would show it to almost anyone who asked (Gutjahr 21). Then the manuscript, which was known as the Book of Lehi, disappeared forever. Following this, the angel Moroni returned to Joseph and commanded him to return the plates and