Alexandria Gazette

BURNING THE TEMPLE
A report reached here yesterday, by the steamer St. Croix, that preparations were said to be making at Nauvoo when she left to blow up the Holy Temple of the Mormons with gunpowder.
The rumor there was generally believed, and considerable excitement prevailed in consequence
The powder was said to be deposited at Pontusac, about fifteen miles above. If done, it is to be the work of the anti-Mormons, who believe that if the temple was destroyed this infatuated race would entirely disband, and never think of Nauvoo more than any other place; but so long as the temple remains it will be looked upon by them as the Mecca of their religion, and hundreds who have started to Oregon, Iowa and California will be straggling back. Besides this, Mormons from every part of the East who are emigrating West must take Nauvoo in their route to see the temple. This the Antis do not like, and these are some of the reasons assigned for its destruction; but the more probable one is that it has its origin in malignancy and a desire, if possible, to exterminate the very name of Mormon. Yesterday was the day said to be fixed upon for its destruction. "We shall soon see what we shall see."—St. Louis New Era.