What “gain” might Anthon have received? While Joseph knew that many wanted the plates for their gold, Anthon may have wanted the plates for their antiquity and the academic honors perhaps associated with translating an authentic ancient American document. Nephi understands that there are more ways than one to get the glory of the world. Whether we sell our souls for money or for acclaim, we have purchased that which has little value with that which is of incalculable value.
Veiled in this description of the “other” man’s motives is probably a continued warning to Joseph Smith to avoid such temptations.