Following on Prof. Skousen's observations that 1) the Book of Mormon is loaded with Early Modern Englishisms, 2) that this was likely because of the work of an Early Modern translation committee, and 3) Tyndale is too early to be the head of such a committee, I proposed that John Dee is a much better candidate to be the guiding light of this committee. I will assume that all those who are curious about the first steps in that argument will take the time to review Dean Robbers' wonderful thread.
Now, I have delved just a tad further into Dee's interest in expanding the Imperium Britanniae into North America, which was so helpfully raised by Prof. JJ. (Welcome, Prof. JJ! We are always happy to connect with scholars making contributions to this exciting new field of inquiry.) Now, Prof. JJ opined that the Gentile who came across the many waters was none other than Sir Francis Drake:
1 Nephi 13:12 wrote:And I looked and beheld a man among the Gentiles, who was separated from the seed of my brethren by the many waters; and I beheld the Spirit of God, that it came down and wrought upon the man; and he went forth upon the many waters, even unto the seed of my brethren, who were in the promised land.
This was a fine suggestion, and it is worthy of further exploration. I would ask, however, that we also consider the very strong possibility that the Gentile in question is not someone so late as Sir Francis Drake, but instead the Welsh prince, Madoc, whom John Dee believed had visited America in the 12th century, thus justifying Britannia's claim to the the New World. Dee made several interesting marginal comments on Madoc in his copy of Columbus' writings on the discovery and occupation of the New World.
We are fortunate to have been previously enlightened on the subject of Prince Madoc by veteran Spalding scholar, Uncle Dale. Those interested in Madoc and the Welsh Indians that were descended from his party may consult his writings.
Also fascinating is Dee's interest in opening up trade with the Iroquois of New France at Hochelaga (on the St. Lawrence) and in settling in their area. The Iroquois of this region came into conflict with the Micmac of hieroglyphic fame. More to come....