In driving to another town where the court was to be held, the mob lay in waiting by the road, but the constable whipped up his horse and they got away.
The next day when Joseph was called to be tried, there was a large crowd and much excitement as many wished to see and hear the young prophet.

The trial commenced and many persons who knew Joseph were called to tell something about him.

Among the number was Mr.Stoal, for whom Joseph had worked.
"Did not the prisoner, Joseph Smith, have a horse of you ?" was asked of Mr.
Stoal.
"Yes, sir," was the answer.
"Did not he go to you and tell you that an angel had appeared unto him and told him to get the horse from you ?" "No; he told me no such story." "Well, how had he the horse of you ?" "He bought him of me as another man would do ?" "Have you had your pay ?" "That is not your business." The same question was asked again.
"I hold his note for the price of the horse," replied Mr.Stoal, "which I consider as good as the pay, for I am well acquainted with Joseph Smith, Jr., and know him to be an honest man, and if he wishes, I am ready to let him have another horse on the same terms." Many other witnesses were called, but the above is a fair sample of the questions and the answers received.

Nothing wrong was proved against Joseph and he was discharged.
But no sooner was Joseph released than another constable appeared and arrested him again.

This officer mistreated Joseph shamefully.