Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 5a, 1880

White, James

Ligonier, Indiana

February 14, 1880

Previously unpublished.

Dear husband:

Yesterday I had a very hard day. My left lung has troubled me for a long time. Yesterday was a suffering day for me. I took sitz bath, fomented my lungs, took heavy pack, but ventured to give out appointment. The night before, Thursday night, it was known I was in the place and the house was crowded. I did not go at all, [but] took treatment and went to bed at seven o’clock. No appointment was given out for me at the meeting, fearing I was not able to speak; but feeling a little better Friday morning, I told them I would venture to speak. No notices were written but the word circulated. In the evening the little brick church was filled, the aisles filled, the entry filled away out on the platform outdoors, and I had great freedom in speaking. I saw with care I could use my lungs. I told them I would speak this forenoon and tonight. 3LtMs, Lt 5a, 1880, par. 1

The Methodist minister and several outsiders begged [that] the meeting should be held in the new hall, for not one-third of the people could be accommodated. This is the arrangement now, for me to speak tonight in the hall. The congregation listened as if spell-bound. The Lord helped me in my feebleness and I never spoke to a more intelligent and interested audience. Our own people are so grateful for my coming. They do not know how to express themselves. I never saw a more hungry, starving people than here in Indiana. I wish I could stay two weeks at least; but I feel that it is my duty to go to California, not to write continuously as I have done by the Spirit, unless I feel urged to do so, but to visit from church to church and labor. I have made a mistake in confining myself to writing while the people know nothing of me or my work. I am satisfied my testimony, the living testimony, is greatly needed. 3LtMs, Lt 5a, 1880, par. 2

Sunday I ride twelve miles to Wolfe Lake, speak once to the people there, and then I may return Monday. I am sure it was right I came. I could not sleep much last night, but am no worse for my speaking. 3LtMs, Lt 5a, 1880, par. 3

This morning God has given me a testimony, and it shall be given to the people; then after they know me, the Lord can impress their minds. My writings will do them some good. 3LtMs, Lt 5a, 1880, par. 4

I was so glad Clara came. She has given me every attention. Jenny was sick. She has cooked, washed dishes, settled rooms, and been very efficient. 3LtMs, Lt 5a, 1880, par. 5

We found Brother Barlett in a good place, but in very poor health. Sands Lane has been holding meetings at Wolfe Lake; thirteen new ones [have been] added to the church in that place. The church there is more prosperous than in this place. 3LtMs, Lt 5a, 1880, par. 6

If you still feel it is best for me to go to California, please let me know, for if I do not go, I shall feel it [my] duty to remain here in Indiana several weeks. 3LtMs, Lt 5a, 1880, par. 7