Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 2 (1869 - 1875)

Lt 49a, 1874

White, J. S.

Saco Depot, Maine

September 1, 1874

Previously unpublished.

Dear Husband:

We have a few moments to wait the arrival of the train, which I will improve in writing. 2LtMs, Lt 49a, 1874, par. 1

New England has felt the loss of Brother Haskell’s labors very much. We decided he had better remain and Brother Andrews attend the eastern camp meeting as most of the week would be passed in packing his books and in preparation for leaving on his mission to Europe. He has employed Brother Henry Kellogg to do the work of preparation while he will go to the eastern camp meeting and Brother Haskell visit the three places where the tents have been pitched. 2LtMs, Lt 49a, 1874, par. 2

About twenty-five have embraced the truth under Brother Kilgore’s labors, and he needs now some other gift to bring them along a step farther. Also Brother Gage has raised up a company of about thirteen. Brother Haskell thinks he has brought them about as far as he can without help. Brother Rhodman has brought out about six and he has got them about as far as he can. So Brother Haskell’s help is really needed to finish up the work. Help is needed everywhere. Let us pray the Lord of the harvest to raise up laborers for the work that is increasing as we near the close of time. 2LtMs, Lt 49a, 1874, par. 3

We see much to be done in the East. I dreamed last Sabbath evening that I went into a large room to labor for our brethren, to bring them up into a right position. As I entered the room I saw all bowed in prayer. Some were fast asleep. A few were dead asleep so that they had fallen over, while some two or three were sleepily dragging out a few words of prayer. 2LtMs, Lt 49a, 1874, par. 4

The atmosphere of the room was heavy with impurities. My throat and nostrils smarted with the polluting odor. I retreated backward while I spoke words of warning and reproof. The full meaning of this I could not really comprehend, but I am convinced it means the sleeping condition of the church. Their stench from the emanations of their bodies mean their sins and their wrongs, which do not win souls to God and the truth but drive them from the truth and disgust unbelievers rather than convicting them. 2LtMs, Lt 49a, 1874, par. 5

We arrived in Portland about nine o’clock in this morning. Waited about one-half hour and Brother Gowell came with his carriage for us and took us out into the country to his house, a beautiful residence. We are now waiting until after dinner; then he says I shall have his horse and drive to Gorham and return in the morning. His horse is perfectly safe. This will save much confusion and some means. The cars leave us four miles from Leases and we would have to hire a team to take us to her house. We seem to be well provided for. 2LtMs, Lt 49a, 1874, par. 6

I feel somewhat anxious about you, fearing that you may labor too hard. Shun all the perplexities and cares you possibly can, for your head and your experience may be of great use to the cause of God at this time. I hope you will guard yourself and not do those things which others can do. Throw upon others all the burdens you can; and the burdens you must bear, God will help you to bear. I hope your courage is good. Let nothing break your hold from God, for He is your strength. He is your health and your exceeding great reward. My courage is good. I feel cheerful in doing my duty. 2LtMs, Lt 49a, 1874, par. 7

Gorham, September 2. We came through all right yesterday. Reuben and Lizzie were both very glad to see me. We have had a pleasant visit and return this forenoon to Portland and take the noon train for Minot. Leases will go with me to the camp meeting if I urge it. I shall try hard to have Mary go also. 2LtMs, Lt 49a, 1874, par. 8

It is a beautiful morning. Wish I could see you at the eastern camp meeting. Leases felt much disappointed in not seeing you. Goodbye, 2LtMs, Lt 49a, 1874, par. 9

Your Ellen.