Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 14 (1899)

Lt 87, 1899

Hickox, Brother and Sister [A. S.]

Hamilton, Newcastle, New South Wales, Australia

May 18, 1899

Previously unpublished.

Dear Brother and Sister Hickox:

I have been impressed to write for you to come and labor in the work that is needing to be done in New South Wales. Brother Haskell has just come to Newcastle. He will work in that vicinity, and he needs help. He can help you greatly, and by connecting yourself with him, you can be a help to him in this great work. I am desirous that you shall attend the conference of ministers which will be held here in Cooranbong. I wish you to realize that it is the will of the Lord that you should prepare yourself for labor. There is a great dearth of workers. We know you have a family to support. We understand this, but you can support them as well in New South Wales as in any other part of the country. You can have a little home in Cooranbong or in Newcastle, or wherever it is most favorable for you; but it is best that you should come to this part of the field, where you can be a help, and where the need for those who can bear a part in the gospel work is great. 14LtMs, Lt 87, 1899, par. 1

I have talked with Brother Haskell about this matter, and he thinks it is the right thing for you to do. There is work to be done at every station from Cooranbong to Queensland. Our next camp meeting must be held at Maitland. The work has only begun in Newcastle, and you can be a help in that city. 14LtMs, Lt 87, 1899, par. 2

We think it will be best for you and your family to be present at the conference we are to hold in Cooranbong. Borrow the money, if you do not have it, and I will be responsible for it. I want you to come, for this is the will of God concerning you. You may say, “I do not wish to engage in the ministry,” but if the Lord wishes you to do this, will not He give directions? “We have not an high priest which cannot be troubled with the feeling of our infirmities, but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in every time of need.” [Hebrews 4:15, 16.] 14LtMs, Lt 87, 1899, par. 3

I write you this because it is my duty. I have been awakened at one o’clock to do this. There is a great work to be done in opening the truth to those who are in the darkness of error, and I shall expect you to come to Cooranbong with your family and take up work here in connection with Elder Haskell. I want to see you and Carrie, and talk with you. If you do not feel prepared to continue in the ministry, the Lord can make you a vessel unto honor. You can go in the strength of the Lord. 14LtMs, Lt 87, 1899, par. 4

I leave this morning for our home in Cooranbong. I came up here last Friday. On Sabbath morning Elder Haskell spoke in the tent. In the afternoon I spoke to a goodly number who seemed to appreciate the Word. Again on Sunday afternoon I addressed a good congregation. Sabbath and Sunday evenings Elder Haskell spoke. He is much worn. The climate of Queensland did not agree with him. He needs help. 14LtMs, Lt 87, 1899, par. 5

In love. 14LtMs, Lt 87, 1899, par. 6