he himself organized a military body made up of companies of tens and fifties which was completely distinct from Avard’s. But it is clear that these were more of the prophet’s characteristic efforts to write his own history as he wished it had been lived and not as it really happened. For Avard actually was not excommunicated until March 17, 1839, four months after he had turned traitor and left the church.f Between June and November 1838 he ruled the Danites with a free hand and was one of the most powerful men in the church.
