Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 16 (1901)

Lt 162, 1901

White, W. C.

“Elmshaven,” St. Helena, California

November 5, 1901

Previously unpublished.

My dear son Willie,—

I have just read a letter from Brother Hoopes to you in regard to establishing an art department in Union College to educate young people to illustrate our publications. I have never had the least encouragement given for this line of work to be taken up, and I could not advise any such movement. There are many things positively essential, but this is not. From henceforth there will be fewer illustrations in my books, and they will sell just as readily as they do now. 16LtMs, Lt 162, 1901, par. 1

An exception must be made in the case of the Southern field. The books published for the colored people need many illustrations, but the illustrations can be of an inexpensive character. 16LtMs, Lt 162, 1901, par. 2

I hope the art department mentioned by Brother Hoopes will not be started. The end is near, and every dollar is needed to set in operation the work that should be done. Let those who have money send some to Australia, that the Sanitarium there may be completed. The same mail that brought this letter from Brother Hoopes brought one from Australia, telling of the great need of the Sanitarium building and of its unfinished condition. 16LtMs, Lt 162, 1901, par. 3

There is work to be done in the cities that have not been worked. Let the students in our schools be educated to work with earnestness and determination for the saving of souls. Let as little expense as possible be incurred. Establish nothing that is not a positive necessity. We need every dollar that can be spared to invest in the work of opening new fields and sustaining workers. 16LtMs, Lt 162, 1901, par. 4

P.S. If you choose, you may send this letter to Brother Hoopes. 16LtMs, Lt 162, 1901, par. 5

On Thursday morning Sara and I start for New York. I cannot rest. I am convinced that it is my duty to go. 16LtMs, Lt 162, 1901, par. 6