The winter and spring of 1843-44 was a difficult time in Nauvoo. The enemies of Joseph Smith and the saints were closing in and gaining power. Joseph knew his time was at hand, that he would not live to see age 40. Knowing this, the Prophet met frequently with members of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles to instruct them and give them the keys necessary to carry on. It was in such a meeting in March 1844, that the Prophet charged the Twelve with their priorities to govern the Church after his death, explaining that he had conferred upon them all the ordinances, authority, and keys necessary to do so, "I roll the burden and responsibility of leading this church off from my shoulders on to yours. Now, round up your shoulders and stand under it like men; for the Lord is going to let me rest awhile." This episode of History of the Saints is about the martyrdom on Joseph Smith.