Ezra C. Dalby wrote of Joseph Smith: “In 1830 I became intimately acquainted with the prophet Joseph Smith, and continued intimately acquainted with him until the day of his death. I had the great privilege . . . of boarding. . .at his house so that I not only knew him as a public teacher but as a private citizen, and as a husband and father. I witnessed his earnest and humble devotions, both morning and evening in his family. I heard the words of eternal life flow from his lips, nourishing and soothing and comforting his family, neighbors and friends. I saw his countenance lighted up as the inspiration of the Holy Ghost rested upon him, dictating the greatest and most precious revelations now printed for our guide. . . .I knew that he was a man of God. It was not a matter of opinion with me, for I received a testimony from the heavens concerning the matter.
I testify before God, angels and men that he was a good honorable, and virtuous man, that his private and public character was irreproachable, and that he lived and died a man of God. (“Joseph Smith, Prophet of God,” ms., talk delivered 12 December 1926, Salt Lake City, p. 23.) ~Ezra C. Dalby
