Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)

Lt 6, 1874

White, J. E.; White, Emma

Santa Rosa, Sonoma County, California

January 27, 1874

Previously unpublished.

Dear Children, Edson and Emma:

Why do you not write to us? We are anxious to hear from our children. Write to us freely and tell us how you are prospering. If you are well, say so; if sick, let us know that. 2LtMs, Lt 6, 1874, par. 1

I have sent you one letter from Chicago, one on the way to California, and one after our arrival. Have none of these letters reached you? We have but two children and we love them and pray for them every day, that God would bless them and qualify them to be instruments of righteousness. We hope you are doing well. Let us hear from you often. 2LtMs, Lt 6, 1874, par. 2

Your father is well for him, cheerful and happy. He does a great deal of writing. He is preparing works for translation. We feel that God is hearing our earnest prayers and restoring us to health and soundness. Your father sleeps well nights. Our Lucinda is quite well, and our little girls. It is not very pleasant here this winter because of so much rain. 2LtMs, Lt 6, 1874, par. 3

Edson and Emma, our hearts must be united with cords of love and allow nothing to fret away these cords. Draw nigh to God and resist the devil and he will flee from you. God is working for us and we want to hear that He is working for you. We want the bonds of Christian love as well as those of natural relationship to grow stronger and firmer. If you want our counsel, we will give it to you the best we can. If coldness and indifference in feeling are controlling you, break the spell at once, for there will be only unhappiness for you. Cast all your care upon Jesus and let His love into your hearts. Time is too short for you to give place to the devil. You want to make the most of your precious time in securing for you the better life. Oh my children, live for the next world; preserve your integrity to God at any cost or any sacrifice! Have your eye single to God’s glory. Lay up your treasure above. 2LtMs, Lt 6, 1874, par. 4

In haste. I must close for father is going to the post office. 2LtMs, Lt 6, 1874, par. 5

Your Mother. 2LtMs, Lt 6, 1874, par. 6