Screwtape Revisted: Letter One (1838)

My Overzealous Nephew,

Wormwood, it seems that you have gotten a head full of yourself. Your desire to take on a Mormon, should be quite easy actually. But, your past efforts have proven me wrong, so I will not overly credit you. If I understand you correctly, the environment for this young man is fairly trying at the moment. It seems, a few of his fellow Mormons have become quite unhappy, with Mr. Smith's financial decisions and taken their issue to the governor. As you know, politicians are easy to sway with the lure of power and wealth and Mr. Boggs is no exception. I think that you could simply let things play out, and we can be rid of these Mormon Restorationists once and for all. That being said, it is more advantageous for us to have a Mormon switch to our side, than it is to simply have him removed from his earthly life. I soul marinated in treason and lies, is far better than one that simply loses faith.

I would recommend that you watch this young man and look for an opportunity to have him find fault in those leading the city. I believe, that asking him to pick up and leave the home he and his wife built will present a prime opportunity for dissension. You should be able to plant a seed that it is for personal gain that his leaders ask him to leave. That they might take over ownership of what he leaves behind. It will not be hard for him to do as, it has been the case in other areas, the Mormons have been asked to leave.

I will tell you this, nephew, you will need to be dedicated in your efforts, it seems that our angelic friends have grown fearful of our efforts and are manifesting themselves to some. Though our efforts to excuse the apparitions as false visions and storytelling, it seems some are quite convincing. Do not fret though, many a clergymen have decide to argue that this visits cannot be real, saying they are no longer needed. It is so helpful, when mere mortals take up our cause.

Carry on and continue to update me on your progress. As I find them little a threat, I haven't not tried to claim a Mormon myself.

Your Uncle,

Screwtape