Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 52a, 1878

White, W. C.; White, Mary

Grand Prairie, Texas

November 9, 1878

Previously unpublished.

Dear Children, Willie and Mary:

I received Mary’s letter today. Have just read it. I am glad if you are all situated pleasantly. If there is anything more to pay Sister Booth, please settle with her and charge to me. 3LtMs, Lt 52a, 1878, par. 1

I found Brother McDearmon’s family the most feeble, poverty-stricken family I have seen for many years. They scarcely help themselves. I think much of their feebleness is in consequence of an impoverished diet. We helped them to something to eat and shall do what we can to lift this good family out of their present distress. Such a frail, weak, suffering family I have never beheld before, where there was not one to help the other. They have suffered for help and suffered for food to eat. Emma will not leave them till they are better, except to go with me to the camp meeting. She takes hold well to help her parents and brother and sister. She may spend the winter here. 3LtMs, Lt 52a, 1878, par. 2

I have taken a severe cold. I think I shall return to Battle Creek. I can do more there in writing than anywhere else, except California. Father will be no help to me in my writing. Were I by myself, I would do ten times more than I can do connected with him. His matters and plans are larger to him than everything else which concerns others. I shall do but little. We cannot be accommodated with separate rooms. Father will have every window open if it blows a gale, and I may leave the room or remain in it. He has left for outdoors for two afternoons, but I cannot be exposed to a draft. Yesterday it rained. I had quite a heavy chill in consequence of the rain and the draft directly upon me. 3LtMs, Lt 52a, 1878, par. 3

Please tell Sister Booth I have disposed of that shawl and had it all arranged before your letter reached me. Send it to me at the first opportunity. 3LtMs, Lt 52a, 1878, par. 4

Our experience in Texas has not been very interesting, but prospects may brighten. I wish to have you express yourselves freely in reference to our remaining in Battle Creek this winter. I am satisfied I shall be much more free to write and have very much better conveniences. Will it do for Father to be at Battle Creek? If this letter reaches you before Willie Cornell and Mary Chinnock start, tell them not to come till they hear from us more definitely. Write often as possible. I would write more, but a brother wants to take this to Dallas, thirteen miles from here. 3LtMs, Lt 52a, 1878, par. 5

Mother.