The Advent Herald, and Signs of the Times Reporter [Himes], vol. 8
November 27, 1844
Vol. VIII. No. 16. Boston, Whole No. 186
Joshua V. Himes
THE ADVENT HERALD,
AND SIGNS OF THE TIMES REPORTER.
BEHOLD! THE BRIDEGROOM COMETH!! GO YE OUT TO MEET HIM!!!
VOL. VIII. NO. 16. Boston, Wednesday, November 27, 1844. WHOLE NO. 186. HST November 27, 1844, page 121.1
THE ADVENT HERALD
IS PUBLISHED EVERY WEDNESDAY BY
J. V. HIMES,
AT NO. 14 DEVONSHIRE STREET, BOSTON.
J. V. Himes, S. Bliss, & A. Hale, Editors. HST November 27, 1844, page 121.2
Terms.—One Dollar per Volume, of 26 Numbers. Five Dollars for 6 Copies, Ten Dollars for 13 Copies. HST November 27, 1844, page 121.3
All communications for the Advent Herald, or orders for Books or remittances, should be directed to “J. V. Himes, Boston, Mass,” post paid. HST November 27, 1844, page 121.4
Post Masters are authorized by the Post Office Department to forward free of expense orders for, or to discontinue publications, and also money to pay for the same HST November 27, 1844, page 121.5
Subscribers’ names with the State and Post Office should be distinctly given when money is forwarded. Where the Post Office is not given, we are liable to misdirect the paper, or credit to the wrong person, as there are often several of the same name, or several Post Offices in the same town. HST November 27, 1844, page 121.6
WATCH AND PRAY
by adelia morton. HST November 27, 1844, page 121.7
I HST November 27, 1844, page 121.8
Watch and pray! Watch and pray!
Pilgrim on life’s tearful way!
Strength you need each fleeting hour,
While ye feel the tempter’s power;
Watch and pray!
Faith shall turn the night to day!
HST November 27, 1844, page 121.9
II HST November 27, 1844, page 121.10
Hope and trust! Hope and trust!
Child of sorrow—child of dust!
Place not here thy fond desire,
But to heavenly things aspire!
See on high
Joys that ne’er will fade or die!
HST November 27, 1844, page 121.11
III. HST November 27, 1844, page 121.12
Pray and fight! Pray and fight!
Keep thine armor ever bright!
Soon thy trials will be done,
Soon the crown of victory won!
Watch and pray,
Looking for the better day!
HST November 27, 1844, page 121.13
IV. HST November 27, 1844, page 121.14
Watch and pray! Watch and pray!
Ye that seek the brighter ray!
Grace can all thy foes subdue,
Grace thy fainting strength renew!
Watch and pray,
Pilgrim on life’s tearful way!
Chrisitian Parlor Magazine.
From the Midnight Cry.
HST November 27, 1844, page 121.15
“Temptation.”
We read, Genesis 22: “That God did tempt Abraham—and he said, Take now thy son—and offer him for a burnt-offering,” etc. HST November 27, 1844, page 121.16
To tempt signifies to try. “God cannot be tempted with evil, neither tempteth he any man,” says James 1:13. In Scripture language, however, God is sometimes said to do what he only suffers to be done. Job says, “The Lord gave, and the Lord hath taken away,” when it is clear that the direct agency of God had nothing to do with the taking away. He suffered “Satan” to do it; and hence it is said, God did it. So in the case of David numbering Israel, 2 Samuel 24:1, God is said to have moved him to say, Go number Israel and Judah; when from 1 Chronicles 21:1, it is evident the direct agent in that work was “Satan.” These things are suffered for the trial of our faith or confidence in God—to show us what is in our hearts, or that the grace of God may be magnified in our deliverance; or perhaps, sometimes as a chastisement for our secret sins, which were hidden from our own eyes till the trial or temptation drew them out to our view. HST November 27, 1844, page 121.17
We may have trusted in man—or our own wisdom, instead of the revealed truth of God. We may have indulged ourselves in asking signs of God, showing a desire to arrive at our conclusions with greater certainty than the word of God warrants; or we may have desired to avoid the patient searching of the Scriptures which is necessary to come to a just conclusion in regard to what God would have us to know and do. Thus seeking unto signs for light and direction, instead of being satisfied with Moses, the Prophets, Jesus Christ and the Apostles, we may have really gone “after other gods,” and thus fallen into the snare God warned his people against in Deuteronomy 13:1-5. HST November 27, 1844, page 121.18
Satan, in his temptations of the people of God, as a general thing, must “transform” himself “into an angel of light,” and appear to be much concerned for the truth of God and the perfect obedience of his people. Hence, Satan may, and, I am inclined to believe, often does, lay burdens upon the people of God which are exceedingly distressing, and for which there is no “Thus saith the Lord;” yet urged upon a tender conscience with such power as to lead them to do, under the impression that it is from God, that to which God never called them. In such cases, Satan takes advantage of great honesty and sincerity to impel the real children of God to actions from which they can only escape by being thoroughly furnished with the word of God as armour on the right hand and on the left, and a full purpose to be governed not by feelings, nor by signs, nor wonders, but by the “law and testimony” alone. Here is our only safety; seeking to God to enable us to understand the mind of God by the same Spirit that inspired that word, which if not sufficient for our direction, we would not be guided aright “though one rose from the dead.” HST November 27, 1844, page 121.19
I would now throw out the suggestion, whether, when it is said, God did tempt Abraham, it may not be understood as nothing more than God suffering Abraham to be tempted to do, what seems clearly, in the light of subsequent revelation, to be wrong in itself, that of offering up children in burnt-offering? and that the only direct agency God had in the matter was to arrest Abraham when the temptation had come to that point in which Abraham could not have proceeded further without sin? Abraham really thought that God actually required him to do the deed of slaying his son. Such was his confidence in God, or faith, that strange as the act appeared, he went forward, accounting that God was able to raise up Isaac from the dead. But God arrested him before he had actually committed what would now be considered murder by slaying his son. That Abraham did not do the very thing he was tempted to do is evident; for that was to offer up his son for a burnt-offering. God does not contradict himself. He suffered Abraham to be tempted; therefore, it is said, God did it as in other cases to which I have referred. But when Abraham’s confidence in God was fully tested, he was arrested and suffered to proceed no further. Abraham was shown what was in his heart. God approved his honesty, sincerity and faith, or confidence, and he is a pattern to all believers. And we are to hold nothing but what we can give up at God’s command. 8 HST November 27, 1844, page 121.20
I wish now to say something on the temptation that has befallen some advent believers. God has given us his living word. So long as we adhere to that aloned, we were safe; and we had evidence that never has been removed, by argument, that we are in the very last end of the present age or dispensation of the gospel. As we approached the contemplated period for the final close, as might have been expected, Satan has attempted to mar the work of God. Hence he has made a mighty effort to draw us aside from a simple reliance on the Scriptures of Truth alone, under the ordinary teachings of the Holy Spirit, and lead our minds to look with favor upon dreams, visions, impressions, imaginations, new revelations, and pretended inspiration. God has suffered it to be so, and thus has tried, or tempted us, to see whether we would follow him alone, as he is made known in his word, and to prove us, that we might know what was in our hearts. By this very process, there has been “great searching of hearts;” and we have seen ourselves as perhaps we never could have done by any other means. HST November 27, 1844, page 121.21
All, or nearly all of us, have fallen into the temptations or trials of the present period, in some form; though all have not fallen into the same things; which difference, however, may have been from some constitutional dissimilarity rather than from any superior wisdom of grace in us, more than in our brethren. Let those, therefore, who may have escaped, what may be supposed to be great folly, beware lest they become like the boasting Pharisee, who thanked God that he was not like other men, and especially like the Publican; and remember that the Publican, after all, overwhelmed with a sense of unworthiness, was more acceptable than the Pharisee, in the sight of that God who looketh on the heart. HST November 27, 1844, page 121.22
True, some of us have been led into extravagances in some things; but may not those mistakes have been the result of a tender conscience, that feared grieving the Holy Spirit, by resisting what they thought might be the teachings of that Spirit? May there not, therefore, be some excuse for us, though we have not been as guarded at all times as we should have been against deception? Is not the Judge even now at the door? and may not his eyes see in those who have erred, a penitence and humiliation that would well befit those who may now be ready to pour censure upon us? God has suffered us to be tried in a furnace of fire—may we not, after all, come forth us gold? Through your prayers, and the mighty graces of God, we shall; and God will yet get himself glory by our very mistakes, errors, and follies. If he can make the wrath of man to praise him, can he not overrule our mis-steps for his glory and the final furtherance of the truth itself? Yes, he can—he will; but that is no excuse for us who have erred, though it may abate from the bitterness of our grief. HST November 27, 1844, page 121.23
Let us humble ourselves before God, and men where duty requires it, and pass the short remaining time of our sojourning here in careful attention to every thing for which we have a “Thus saith the Lord.” Let us cleave “to the law and the testimony” as the alone “sure word of prophecy,” and take heed that we are not drawn aside by the fancies of men, by our imaginations, nor the temptations of the devil. Our only safety is a humble reliance upon God in the faithful study, and careful observance of his word. Geo. Storrs. HST November 27, 1844, page 122.1
Letter from Br. I. H. Shipman
Dear Bro. Himes.—I wish to say to the brethren scattered abroad, that I am still waiting for the coming of the Bridegroom. Although disappointed in not seeing Him on the tenth of the seventh month, yet I can never give it up until He comes. The next thing to transpire in the parable of the virgins, is “Give us of your oil, for our lamps are out.” That cry will not be made until just as the Lord comes; and while they go to buy, the Bridegroom comes and the door will be shut. Although we have not heard the cry for oil, yet we have seen the lamps of a part of the virgins go out. Our brethren that find it expedient to go to their employments again, will have to be exceedingly careful, or they will fall in this awful moment. There is plainly two disappointments of time pointed out in the parable; and then the Bridegroom comes.—How solemn the declaration of the Savior, “what I say unto you I say unto all, watch.” We are now in the watching, waiting, time, and the time when the Savior is saying to us, “Remember Lot’s wife.” I believe God has suffered us to come to this point, not to leave us, but to purify, try, make white, and deliver us. I believe that God has witnessed by his spirit, that he is near, even at the door. For so says the word; and the Spirit and word agree. May God give us all wisdom to direct us in this hour of trial. Shall we flee when hard sayings come; or will we follow the Savior through evil as well as good report? It is a time of peculiar trial with us in this place; but none of these things move us. Those that stand the trial, never were so strong and so united as at the present time. All feel that the day of the Lord is at hand; and have not the least desire to turn back. I am glad we have yet the privilege of the press, so that our brethren can comfort each other through this medium. Brother Miller’s time of trouble, spoken of, Lecture 7, page 109, seems to be upon us; but we trust to be delivered out of it. As I see and hear of our places of worship being burned, shut up, and injured in various ways, and the unfeeling mob laying hold of our dear brethren and sisters, and draging them from their places of worship, and the houses of friends, and being brought before rulers for Christ’s sake, and because they feel constrained to live their faith in the coming of the Lord; I am led to inquire, is this the land of the pilgrim fathers, where religious liberty has been planted and nourished on every hill, and in every valley? Who could have supposed such a state of things as the present? But so it is, and we only ask for grace to stand.—The Lord knows best what kind of a trial we need to fit us for the kingdom. May we all so live that we may say, when he appears, “Lo, this is our God, we have waited for him.” HST November 27, 1844, page 122.2
I. H. Shipman.
North Springfield, Nov. 15, 1844.
Letter from Bro. B. Matthias
Bro. Bliss.—“We see not our signs, there is no more any prophet: neither is there among us any that knoweth how long. O God, how long shall the adversary reproach? shall the enemy blaspheme thy name for ever?” Psalm 74:9, 10. HST November 27, 1844, page 122.3
My confidence is still in the promises upon which we started. I believe we have understood the visions of the world’s history, the nature of the kingdom of God, and that God gave us the sure word of prophecy to this end, as a light shining in a dark place. I believe God will yet bring it all out right, and will vindicate his people, and justify their course. I believe, therefore, that we owe no apology to the so-called churches, or the world. We have done what we could under the circumstances, for truth and God’s glory while they have not. The promises, viz., The resurrection of the dead; the kingdom of heaven at hand, and the personal reign of Christ on earth, etc. being admitted, where are we now? The text at the head of this article defines my position. We looked to 1843, and then to the seventh month of 1844, and there are now amongst us none that know how long. We are at the end of our reckoning; and like the mariner on soundings, laying too in a storm, and firing guns for a pilot; so we have come to the end of our times. We are, in my opinion, in a place of trial, where our faith is being tried. It was not so much a trial of faith, to believe in the Lord’s coming in 1843, and in the seventh month, as now. No, we have to believe without future time, “Many shall be purified, and made white, and tried. Blessed is the man that endureth temptation, for when he is tried he shall receive a crown of life.”—Again, “Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I will also keep you from the hour of temptation. Behold I come quickly, hold that fast which thou hast that no man take thy crown.” Another text, “Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering, for he is faithful that hath promised.” Hebrews 10:23. “For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,” etc. v. 26. This is called, in the 29th verse, counting the blood of the covenant wherewith we were sanctified, an unholy thing. Again, “Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. For ye have need of patience that after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.—For yet a little while and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.” This promise is given to comfort us in this trial, and the Lord help us to rest upon it, and work till he comes, crying instantly, “Even so come, Lord Jesus, Amen. HST November 27, 1844, page 122.4
Will you present the following texts: Isaiah 62:1-6; 64:1; Revelation 6:9; Romans 8:19; Psalm 18:2; Isaiah 66:8-9; Leviticus 26:40-42; Ezekiel 36:25-37; Jeremiah 29:10, 30:6; Luke 18:8; Psalm 15; Psalm 74:9; Isaiah 63:17; Revelation 5:8, and 8:3. HST November 27, 1844, page 122.5
Yours in hope. Barnet Matthias.
Boston, Nov. 15, 1844.
Letter from South Carolina
Dear Bro. Bliss:—Though a stranger to you in the flesh, I hope not so in the Spirit, being confident according to the holy Scriptures, that this is the time of the end, when we are warranted and required daily and hourly to watch, and look for his glorious appearing. The present generation answers that description to the fall; which was foretold by the prophets, the Savior, and the apostles, that the world should be found in, at his second coming. There appears to be but little faith, even among his professed followers in the different sects. They look on the subject with indifference, and treat those with contempt and scorn, who admonish them that the time is short. Oh, that the sleeping churches could be awaked, that they might see where they are, that it is midnight, that it is the time for all the watchmen, that are truly such, to cry aloud and spare not; to proclaim, “Behold the bridegroom cometh! go ye out and meet him! “I thank God that I have heard the cry, and I adore his holy name, that he has given me a disposition of heart to believe that he has told me in his word concerning his coming the second time, without sin, unto salvation; when he shall be glorified in all his saints. But, alas! the great body of professors are classing themselves with the evil servants, or the scoffers, and saying in their hearts, Their Lord delayeth his coming; or, Where is the promise of his coming. O God, have mercy on such, and bless the means that may be used in the awaking of them, before it be too late. HST November 27, 1844, page 122.6
We have a few ministers of the Baptist denomination, who are not afraid of consequences in declaring that the day of the Lord is near, even at the door. But few seem to be awake; but thanks be to God, there are a few in these regions of darkness, that are awake, that have the light, and are taking heed to the sure word of prophecy, which is as a light shining in a dark place. So far as I know, other denominations in this section, viz: Presbyterians, Seceders, Methodists, and Episcopalians, sad to relate, pay no attention to it, and quiet their consciences by refering you to the words of our Lord, As to the day and the hour, knoweth no man; thereby dishonoring the Lord of glory, and keeping out of view what he had previously told them, that when they should see such things take place, they might know that it was nigh, even at the door; as they know summer is nigh when they see the fig tree shoot forth the tender leaves, etc. HST November 27, 1844, page 122.7
I believe if one or more able lecturers were to come to Carolina, great good might be done in awaking the Virgins, reclaiming backsliders, and wresting poor souls from the grasp of the devil, through the divine blessings of a crucified Savior. HST November 27, 1844, page 122.8
I add no more, but pray the Lord to make us faithful to the end, that none may be able to take our crown. HST November 27, 1844, page 122.9
Yours in the blessed hope,
ROB’T M’FADDEN.
Charter Dist., Fishing Creek, S. C.
October, 1844.
Letter from Br. J. Litch
Dear Brother Himes:—I have just concluded the perusal of your Defence, Position, etc., and hasten to say, that with the general tenor of the article, I am heartily pleased, and to it I wish to give my full assent. I am willing to stand upon that ground and meet the result, until our Lord comes. Had I written the article, I should probably have been more disposed to look at the date of some of the prophetic periods, as being yet quite clear and strongly indicating the year 1845, as being the time of their termination. This is especially true of the 1335 days of Daniel 12th chapter. HST November 27, 1844, page 122.10
I am now, as I was in 1843, fully convinced that the confering of Roman consular honors, titles, and insignia, on Clovis, king of France, and the first Roman Catholic King who ever did bear supreme Roman power, was the event which marked the setting “up of the abomination that maketh desolate.” HST November 27, 1844, page 122.11
We did date that event, as you know in 508, A. D., and then brought its terminus in 1843. We dated it there by following Gifford’s History of France, where it is stated that Clovis conducted his last war and achieved his last victory in 508. On his return from that war, he was met in the city of Taurs, by the embassadors of Anastasius, Emperor of Constantinople, who conferred on him the titles and insignia of Consul and Patrician. We supposed 508 to be the true date, but on a more careful examination of Gibbon, I find that he perfectly agrees with Gifford, as to all he relates of the war of Clovis in 508, and his return to the city of Taurs,—the conferring of Roman honors upon him there, etc. But he goes a step further, and says Clovis received these honors and was crowned Consul, and put on the Roman purple, in 510, A. D. HST November 27, 1844, page 123.1
This was Martin Luther’s date for the 1335 days. And if they began 510, they end in 1845. The argument has sufficient strength to render it plausible, and worthy of attention. True, we do not have such an amount of evidence centering clearly and positively in any given year, supported by the best and most accredited chronologers, as we had in 1843.—Hence, I do not feel authorized to speak with that confidence, of any other time, that we used in that year. But I can by no means give up the evidence which does exist, be it more or less. HST November 27, 1844, page 123.2
But while I say, the same confidence which we felt in the coming of the Lord in 1843, is not warranted in respect to any given time in the future, I do not mean to say that our ground of confidence in his immediate coming, is any less than then; but on the contrary, it increases day by day. With this slight difference in respect to time, I can and do most heartily adopt your position as mine. HST November 27, 1844, page 123.3
And I wish the church and world to know, that while I accord the fullest right to all Christians to cherish and propagate such sentiments as they most conscientiously believe the Bible to teach; and while I have the fullest charity for all who love our Lord Jesus Christ, however they may differ from me in opinion, yet they will find me waging an uncompromising war against the doctrines of this world’s conversion to Christ, before his coming, and the return of the carnal Jews to Palestine. And at the same time, I trust, none will find me behind in efforts for the immediate salvation of sinners, at home or abroad. HST November 27, 1844, page 123.4
Yours looking for the blessed hope,
J. LITCH.
Philadelphia, Nov. 14, 1844.
Parable of the ten Virgins
Beloved Bro. Himes:—Since the passing by of the tenth day of the seventh month I have reflected much on the parable of the ten virgins, which in connection with the signs of the times, the seals, and trumpets, indicate our latitude and longitude on the stream of time. My impression is, that we are now in the true tarrying time; and that now the last point of time to which the Adventists looked, has passed, all the virgins will slumber and sleep. It appears to me that as long as any of us can see any time remaining of the prophetic periods, there can be no sleeping on the time. Neither can there be any tarrying of the vision. Now there are many of the Adventists who did not consider the periods exhausted until the autumn; hence they could not have been satisfied that there was any tarrying. But now the last moment, so far as any one who calculated from Bro. Miller’s date, can see, has run out. The consequence is, we are now in doubt and suspense as to the precise time when the Lord will come. That the state of things is contemplated in the parable under consideration, will, I think, be apparent when we examine it in all its details. HST November 27, 1844, page 123.5
1. The virgins were to go forth to meet the Bridegroom. HST November 27, 1844, page 123.6
2. This going forth was to be at a time when the evil servant was disputing the doctrine of the Lord’s immediate coming, and was smiting those who expected him. HST November 27, 1844, page 123.7
3. The Bridegroom was to tarry beyond the hour they expected to meet him. HST November 27, 1844, page 123.8
4. During the tarrying, having no knowledge of the exact time when he would come, they fall asleep in uncertainty. HST November 27, 1844, page 123.9
5. At midnight the cry is made, Behold the Bridegroom cometh, go ye out to meet him. HST November 27, 1844, page 123.10
6. The cry is not made by one of the virgins, for they are all asleep, and all simultanously arise and trim their lamps at the announcement of his approach. HST November 27, 1844, page 123.11
7. When the true cry is made, there is no time for preparation. For while the foolish virgins are gone to buy oil, the Bridegroom comes, they that are ready go in with him to the marriage, and the door is shut. HST November 27, 1844, page 123.12
8. Alter this, the foolish, who had gone to buy oil, come and asked admittance, but are informed that it is too late. HST November 27, 1844, page 123.13
9. There is no conversion of sinners after the true midnight cry is made. HST November 27, 1844, page 123.14
Now the question is, what point do we occupy in this parable? Clearly the slumbering and tarrying time. Because there never was a literal going forth to meet the Bridegroom until lately. Different points of time were looked to by those who were proclaiming his coming, but the announcement of the tenth day of the seventh month produced a unanimous movement, an actual going forth under the expectation of meeting him at a definite time. Like the virgins in the parable, we have been disappointed in the hour, and must now wait in uncertainty. HST November 27, 1844, page 123.15
If it can be shown that there was a real going forth before the last cry was made, then my position, untenable; but this I think cannot be done. That the speedy coming of the Lord was to be preached, previous to the going forth to meet him, is evident from the parable of the evil servant, with whom the matter was to be discussed. And that this discussion was to be in reference to the time, is proved by the fact, that the evil servant was to deny the time, and say that “the Lord delays his coming.” HST November 27, 1844, page 123.16
Finally, in the midst of this controversy with the evil servants, the virgins were to take their lamps and go forth to meet the Bridegroom. This, it seems to me, has been literally fulfilled; and now we will remain in suspense about the day and hour of his coming, until the true midnight cry will be given. Who is to give this cry may be learned from Matthew 24:31—“And he shall send his angels with a great sound of a trumpet, and they shall gather together his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other.” These are the agents who are to sound the last thrilling and startling cry “BEHOLD HE COMETH, GO YE OUT TO MEET HIM!” Those who are without oil when this cry is made, will be lost. May God help us to have it in abundance. HST November 27, 1844, page 123.17
The time in which we are now living is beyond a doubt the most critical and perilous of any that has hitherto tried our faith and patience. We are now in imminent danger. All our past labor is now in jeopardy. Many have, no doubt, under the excitement of the late cry, gone forth to meet the Lord without oil. Some in the West, who never felt the force of the arguments for 1843, or any other time, fell in with the late movements, and actually went forth with those who had been as they thought asleep on the time. Now is the time of trial with them, and indeed with all of us. For my part, the next thing I expect to hear about the time, will be the glorious news that the Bridegroom is on his way to earth. HST November 27, 1844, page 123.18
I hope, my dear brother, you will continue the Advent Herald as usual. It is the most welcome visitor I have, and its arrival never fails to refresh my spirit. Be not disheartened brother; but go forward in your praiseworthy efforts, and God will sustain you. I have all confidence in your rectitude. No matter what your enemies may say, your friends know and appreciate your trials and sacrifices. Let the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing; let them cry peace and safety, and denounce us as knaves and fanatics in due time God will speak for himself, and take away the reproach of his people. As ever yours in hope. HST November 27, 1844, page 123.19
N. Field.
Jeffersonville, Ia. Nov. 7. 1844.
Calumnies Refuted
In the Boston Post, on Saturday last, Elder Joshua V. Himes proves, in the most satisfactory manner, that the charges which have been preferred against him, in the newspapers, of having received large sums of money, and appropriated them to his own use, from certain deluded Millerites in this region, are gross calumnies, set afloat in the community for an evil purpose. We shall publish his defence without abridgment, (as every other editor, who has published any thing to his detriment, touching his pecuniary integrity, is in honor and justice bound to do,) in our next number, not being able to find room for it this week. We have deeply regetted to see Mr. Himes the victim of a pernicious and monstrous religious delusion, as we regard it (a delusion, however, in which nearly all Christendom participates even to the present hour, differing only as to the precise time when the fiery event shall happen,) but we have not felt disposed to charge him with any mercenary motives.—Liberator. HST November 27, 1844, page 123.20
The following paragraph has been extensively copied in religious and secular papers. HST November 27, 1844, page 123.21
Lamentable—Moses Clark, of Landaff, we learn, committed suicide by drowning about a week since. A man of good sense, and very well informed, he yet fell into the delusion of Millerism, and reason was ousted from her throne. He was highly respected in this town, and so well esteemed in Grafton County, as to have been elected Chairman of the Road Commissioners. He was a representative from Landaff to the Legislature for the two years previous to the present year, and was a very useful, careful, and well informed member. It is time that some effectual step was taken to stay this wicked delusion, propagated by dishonest and canting hypocrites.—N. H. Patriot. HST November 27, 1844, page 123.22
The Portsmouth, N. H. Journal of Nov. 6, says: HST November 27, 1844, page 123.23
The Haverhill (N. H.) Republican states, that Moses Clark, Esq. the Second Advent man who has been so extensively killed by the newspapers, is alive and well. It was Mr. Gale who was drowned accidentally while in a state of religious insanity. HST November 27, 1844, page 123.24
We trust our neighbors of the press, who wish to publish the truth, will learn caution from the numerous “mistakes” into which they have been betrayed. HST November 27, 1844, page 123.25
Job and David.—Many persons, when quoting from the book of Job and the Psalms, ascribe the language used exclusively to Job and David. A more careful reading would show this to be incorrect; as a large portion of the Book of Job consists of the sayings of his associates, while David was the author of little more than one half of the Psalms; the remainder having been composed by Solomon, Ezra, Asaph and others.—Morning Star. HST November 27, 1844, page 123.26
Advent Herald & Reporter
“The Lord is at Hand.”
BOSTON, NOVEMBER 27, 1844.
The Astonishing Ignorance of the Millerites
Among the mistakes made by the Millerites, not the least singular is the fact that the 10th day of the seventh month came on the 23rd of September, instead of October, and was observed by the Jews in all places with their customary services.—Cross and Journal. HST November 27, 1844, page 124.1
It would seem from reading the writings of our opponents, that they really suppose that if they should die, wisdom would die with them. And they often make themselves merry over what they suppose are our mistakes; and yet nothing is more evident than that they are perfectly unacquainted with that of which they speak. Many of the papers have supposed that they were throwing great light on this question when they have published to the world that the Jews observed September, instead of October, as the seventh month; and they speak of it as though we were unacquainted with that fact. HST November 27, 1844, page 124.2
Now, if they knew anything respecting the question; or if they had read our writings, they would have known that they were stating nothing but what we have already published. No one has even doubted but that the Rabinnical Jews everywhere observed September as the seventh month; and this we have often given in our paper. But we were obliged to dissent from their time, because they have no regard to the requirements of Moses in reference to the barley harvest, when the Passover is to be kept. The Caraite Jews who conform to the strict letter of the law, therefore are obliged to begin their year one month later, so that their seventh month corresponded with our October. And as they comply with the terms of the law, we adopted their reckoning. HST November 27, 1844, page 124.3
We may, therefore, say that among the mistakes made by the anti-Millerites, not the least singular is the fact, that they know nothing of the customs of the Caraite Jews; and never stop to inquire whether the Rabbins conform to the law of Moses, when they decide as to the correctness of their chronology. HST November 27, 1844, page 124.4
Since writing the above, we cut the following from Zion’s Herald:— HST November 27, 1844, page 124.5
“They fixed upon the tenth day of the seventh month to close the scenes of mortality; and the saints must leave off work, sell or give away their property, and be ready-by the 22nd of October. But here they mistake the month, and have fixed upon the eighth, instead of the seventh!! Does not every body know that “Easter Sunday,” in our common almanacs, is fixed upon as the time of the resurrection of Christ, and also that he was crucified at the time of the Passover, in the first Jewish month? Let any man take his almanac, and begin with the new moons in March, as the first month, and count on, and he will find the seventh moon began Sept. 12th; but they took the October moon for the seventh. How can we account for this palpable mistake, which does not appear to have been perceived by any of them? We may with propriety consider it an interposition of divine providence, to disclose to the world the utter folly of paying any regard to their calculations, provided they should fix upon another time; for if they made a mistake of one month in seven, with the almanac before their eyes, who can employ them to calculate the chronology of the world?!! HST November 27, 1844, page 124.6
New Bedford, Nov. 5, 1844. A. Kent.” HST November 27, 1844, page 124.7
If A. Kent was as familiar with his Bible as he is with his almanac; or if he had even examined the arguments on this very point which are given by “the learned Dr. Hales,” as Dr. Jarvis calls him; or of Jahn, and other standard authorities in the church, who have settled the question, that the Rabbins are one month too early in all their observances, he would never have exposed his ignorance on this subject to the world. HST November 27, 1844, page 124.8
Or if he had laid aside his “almanac,” long enough to examine Arch Bishop Usher’s Annals of the world, he would have learned, that that distinguished Prelate, even places the seventh month as last as our November. 9 While Josephus after speaking of “the seventh month” and the “fast” on “the tenth day,” says, “upon the fifteenth day of the same month, when the season of the year is changing for winter the law enjoins us to pitch tabernacles in every one of our houses, so that we preserve ourselves from the cold of that season of the year.” Ant. B. 3. chap. 10. HST November 27, 1844, page 124.9
That the seventh month could not be as early as September, is also evident from Acts 27:9, 27, 33; 28:11.—These passages show us that the winter commenced immediately after the fast of expiation, or day of atonement, the tenth day of the seventh month, that is, if the opinion of the most eminent Biblical scholars may be relied upon. The marginal note in our Polyglot Bibles, on the fast mentioned, verse 9, is as follows: “The fast was on the tenth day of the seventh month. Leviticus 23:27, 29.” And says Dr. Clark, “to sail after this fast was proverbially dangerous among the ancient Jews.” HST November 27, 1844, page 124.10
All who have made themselves merry over this supposed mistake, have only shown to the world their own ignorance respecting it; and every scholar knows that we are correct as to the Caraite seventh month. HST November 27, 1844, page 124.11
All of our opponents who have noticed this, show that they are entirely ignorant of all the evidence on this question, save what they find in the “almanac;” even the astute John Dowling, who has the honor of discovering this mistake, has shown his ignorance of the Caraite reckoning. In their own language we enquire, “How can we account for this palpable mistake, which does not appear to have been perceived by any of them? We may with propriety consider it an interposition of divine providence to disclose to” those who love the Lord’s appearing, “the utter folly of paying any regard to their calculations;” for as they have shown that they have nothing but “the almanac before their eyes,” and know nothing of the arguments on so small a point as this, “who can employ them to calculate the chronology of the world?!!!” HST November 27, 1844, page 124.12
We should as soon think of going to the monks of the dark ages to decide respecting the gospel of Christ, as we should to the Rabbins, to decide respecting the Mosaic law. It is, however, evident that God is lulling these men to sleep, by reason of their ignorance of the word which is given for their salvation, and of the circumstances which were to accompany its fulfillment. Thus trusting to their own wisdom, their eyes are being closed that they may not see. HST November 27, 1844, page 124.13
We were not before aware that the “almanac” was a standard work among modern theologians. HST November 27, 1844, page 124.14
The World hateth you
Marvel not, my brethren, if the world hate you .... John 3:13. HST November 27, 1844, page 124.15
Never before was there a time when the doctrine of Christ’s personal advent so universally called forth the hatred of the world; or when those who look for and love his appearing were so universally hated and despised for so doing. This state of things is to the multitude a sufficient proof of the fallacy of our position; because, say they, in accordance with the reasoning of many divines, “Common sense has decided against it.” But is this, to the child of God, any argument that we are in the wrong? What saith the Scriptures? HST November 27, 1844, page 124.16
Says the apostle, 2 Timothy 3:12, “Yea and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus, shall suffer persecution.” And, Acts 7:52, “Which of the prophets have not your fathers persecuted? and they have slain them which showed before the coming of the Just One.” Says our Savior, John 15:18-21, “If the world hate you, you know that it hated me before it hated you. If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you. Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you: if they have kept my saying, they will keep yours also. But all these things will they do unto you for my name’s sake, because they know not him that sent me.” HST November 27, 1844, page 124.17
Psalm 105:25, “He turned their hearts to hate his people, to deal subtilly with his servants” Matthew 10:16-18, 21, 22, 24-26, 34-39, “—Behold, I send you forth as sheep in the midst of wolves: be ye therefore wise as serpents, and harmless as doves. And ye shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles. And the brother shall deliver up the brother to death, and the father the child: and the children shall rise up against their parents, and cause them to be put to death. And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake: but he that endureth to the end shall be saved. The disciple is not above his master, nor the servant above his lord. Fear them not therefore: for there is nothing covered, that shall not be revealed; and hid, that shall not be known. Think not that I am come to send peace on earth; I came not to send peace, but a sword. He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake, shall find it. Hebrews 12:4-8 Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin. But if ye be without chastisement, whereof all are partakers, then are ye bastards and not sons. Thus the scriptures show us that God has designed to lead his children out of the world amidst tribulation and affliction, and the enmity and scorn of this world, that when they shall stand on the sea of glass, and it shall be asked of them “who are these?” Revelation 7:14, the answer may be true of each one of them,—“These are they which came out of great tribulation, and have washed their robes, and made them white in the blood of the Lamb.” HST November 27, 1844, page 124.18
Shall we then seek to escape the world’s displeasure, and avoid its reproach? Nay, “Behold, we count them happy that endure.” James 5:11. Moses chose “to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season;—esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompense of reward”—Hebrews 11:25, 26. And says the blessed Savior, Matthew 5:10-12 “Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.” HST November 27, 1844, page 124.19
Happy are we when we can say with the apostle, 2 Corinthians 4:8-11 We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; for we which live are always delivered unto death for Jesus sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our flesh. And we may rejoice that we are “counted worthy to suffer shame for Christ’s name.” Marvel not therefore, my brethren, if the world hate you; for it hated Christ before it hated you. HST November 27, 1844, page 125.1
The following article appeared in the “atlas” of Nov. 4, and also in some other papers. We were glad to see it as Mr. Seth Bliss has thus advertised to the world through all the papers in which his article has appeared, that Bro. Himes has published a “vindication,” “in the Morning Papers of Saturday,” Thus the public who would otherwise be ignorant of the fact will be apprised of it, and many will be thereby induced to obtain that paper and read the “vindication. HST November 27, 1844, page 125.2
THE TWO S. BLISSES
Mr Editor:—In the vindication of Mr Himes, published in the Morning Post of Saturday, I find that, by a similarity of signature, I am unwillingly and unfortunately associated, in the minds of many, with the Miller delusion, a delusion with which I never have been, and never intend to be, in any way voluntarily connected. The Mr S. Bliss who signs the letters in Mr Himes’ vindication, is Sylvester, the editor, as I understand, of the “Signs of the Times,” and who often signs his name S. Bliss, and thus leads many to confound two different persons. The name of the Secretary of the American Tract Society, Boston, is Seth Bliss, who sometime signs his name S. Bliss. I will thank Mr Sylvester Bliss to write his name in full, that my friends and numerous correspondents may not have occasion, so often, to ask, with surprise, “has the Secretary of the American Tract Society embraced the Miller theory’” I claim and acknowledge my proper name to be Seth, a name which dates back to the third son of Adam—and, of course, is an antedeluvian, and has survived one universal deluge, and also the 22nd day of October, 1844. I regret that so ancient a name should be associated with so modern a delusion. Sylvester is a more modern name—and if the editor of the Signs of the Times wishes to indentify it with that delusion, he may do so by writing it in full, and at the same time save me and others some trouble. SETH BLISS, HST November 27, 1844, page 125.3
Secretary American Tract Society. HST November 27, 1844, page 125.4
Boston, November 2. HST November 27, 1844, page 125.5
In the Atlas of Nov. 5th, we inserted the following, which has also been copied into other papers: HST November 27, 1844, page 125.6
“THE TWO S. BLISSES.”
Mr. Editor.—I perceive by an article under the above head, in your paper of yesterday, that Mr. Seth Bliss is anxious not to be identified with the doctrine of Christ’s Second Coming. I exceedingly regret that the similarity of our signatures should cause him the mortification of having it supposed that the “Secretary of the American Tract Society” is joyfully awaiting the coming of his Lord; or that one who can scoff at the deluge or the Second Coming of Christ, should be, in any way, identified with myself. I would willingly write my name in full, as he requests, if it were a little name of four letters like Seth; but I think it would be less trouble to have that “venerable,” “ante-diluvian” name written out in full. I am aware that Seth is more ancient than Sylvester; but if the value of a name depends upon its antiqutiy, that of Seth must stand aside for his elder brother. And if the want of antiquity is so great a fault in a name, what must it be in a theory, like that of a millenium in time, which is only two hundred years old, and for the advancement of which, Mr. Seth Bliss is so energetically employed. The name of Sylvester, is, however, not as modern as he may suppose, neither is the doctrine of the “Second Advent,” for I believe nothing but what the prophets and Moses did say “should come,” and which was the belief of the church, till the “Modern” “theory” of Mr. Seth Bliss was put forth by Daniel Whitby. HST November 27, 1844, page 125.7
SYLVESTER BLISS.
Associate Editor of the Advent Herald.
Boston, Nov. 5.
Mutilations of History by the American Tract Society
The New England Puritan contains a long article, showing how D’Aubigné’s History of the Reformation, has been mutilated, garbled, interpolated and emended, by the American Tract Society, to suit the views of some of the denominations who are connected with that Society. The Puritan remarks that. “Mutilated History is not veritable history. Indeed, it is no history at all, and all uses of history are lost to the world, if interpolations, emendations or omissions are admitted to favor any party or sect.” The question has been taken up by the Synod of New York and New Jersey, who have reported upon it in full. They show all the alterations which have been made, and comment upon some of them very severely. In the language of this report,—“They not only transpose the language and thus make the author assert a doctrine different from what he teaches, but they conceal historical facts,” and “vitally affect the sense of the author.” HST November 27, 1844, page 125.8
After presenting all the various mutilations, the committee say, “In view of these strange and most unwarrantable omissions and mutilations of this work, the question forces itself upon the mind,—For whose benefit were these alterations made? What denominations through their representatives in the Tract Society, have demanded this mutilation of history? Is this a specimen of what these denominations would do with the pages of history, if they could do it without drawing down upon themselves the frown of an indignant community? And if so, then shall they do this, and escape that frown by doing it through the American Tract Society?” HST November 27, 1844, page 125.9
The denominations for whose benefit these mutilations are made, appear to be the Episcopalians and Baptists, but principally the latter. D’Aubigné in his history, has given a full account of the fanaticism of the Anabaptists, which appears conspicuously throughout the work, and which was a great hindrance to the progress of the Reformation. But it seems that the Baptists of our day, are so ashamed of the doings of their ancestors, that they are even willing to falsify history to screen themselves from its odium. And yet this is the denomination which sustains such men as John Dowling and the editor of the Watchman, who accuse the Adventists of the same follies, to screen themselves from which, such an unwarrantable course has been pursued, to suppress the historical fact that they were the fanatics of those days. But when we consider that to escape this odium, they are willing that history should be falsified, we no longer wonder at the slanders they have published against us, or that they should refuse to correct them: HST November 27, 1844, page 125.10
The committee go on to say:—“The omissions and mutilations in D’Aubigné are not the only ones, we believe, that have been made by the Society in the works which it has published. Other works have been subjected to the same process.—The time has come therefore, as the committee feel, when the question must be settled, whether the Tract Society shall become a book mutilating Society.” HST November 27, 1844, page 125.11
If Protestants can thus mutilate history, why may not Catholics and Infidels do it? And yet how severely would they be censured for so doing! And how would the poor Adventists be condemned if such a charge could be presented against them? Their accusers would no longer be obliged to resort to the falsehoods in circulation, nor murder in the newspapers sweet innocent babes to excite the indignation of the populace. HST November 27, 1844, page 125.12
This report was made not from enemies of the society, but from friends; and it is published in those papers that lend it their support. The course pursued in these mutilations, is however sincerely regretted by many connected with that Society; and we understand that the edition of D’Aubigné is to be supressed. HST November 27, 1844, page 125.13
We would here remark that the Mr. S. Bliss, who is the secretary of this society, is Mr. Seth Bliss, and is not in any way connected with the Second Advent cause. HST November 27, 1844, page 125.14
The Dernier Resort.—Let the friends of the Advent cause remember, that our opponents seen to have given up the Scriptural argument, respecting the Advent and rest the entire issue of the great question upon mean and base attacks upon personal and private character!! Some of them are now giving currency to all the foolish and malignant stories and falsehoods that can be called to their aid, to blacken the character, and destroy the influence of those who have borne the burden and heat of the day in the Advent cause. HST November 27, 1844, page 125.15
In this work the conductors of the religious and secular press, have taken a conspicuous part. Our defence, which was published a few weeks since, has opened the eyes of many to the facts in the case. The secular press, where there was any principle or integrity, made prompt corrections. Some of the religious presses, also, have done us justice.—But others of them have not only refused to do us common justice, but are still showing their malignity, by repeating the old slanders, and are very industriously seeking to find new occasions for attacking private character, and to justify themselves in their former sins. HST November 27, 1844, page 125.16
Among the prints that have treated us unjustly, the “Christian Watchman,” is known to be conspicuous. And with all the proof of the falsehood of his libellous insinuations before him, he as yet refuses to make any correction. A sleepless malice seeks our destruction! HST November 27, 1844, page 125.17
The “Christian Secretary,” also, shows the same spirit and disposition. It gave a respectful notice of our defence a short time since, exhonerating us from the charges prefered against our character. This waked up the ire of some of the enemies of the Advent, and the next week a malicious attack was made by them upon us. They profess to know nothing against our moral character; but, still there appears to be something awful, if they only knew what it was, that would entirely overthrow us, and the Advent cause. So now, to gratify the malignity of our foes, we must be adjudged as dishonest until we can prove ourselves innocent.—This is the course our enemies now pursue. Let our brethren everywhere take courage. The course of our opponents shows that they cannot, and dare not meet us on any scriptural, or honorable ground. They know the argument is on our side, that we have the vantage ground after all, and that their only hope lies in the success of the conspiracy to destroy the reputation of some who have been prominent in the cause. They hope to find some disaffectcd persons, who will bear testimony against us, they have even sought for them, and some have been importuned to bear a testimony unfavorable to our reputation; but none have been found to do it as yet. HST November 27, 1844, page 125.18
Our trust is in God. He will bring forth our judgment as the noon day, in his time. Let envy and malignity punish itself till God shall give the true judgement to all. In the mean time we shall keep about our work. Providence permitting, we intend to visit the Advent congregations generally, without delay. And we rejoice to know that we have their confidence, and respect, which we value above all earthly considerations in this state of trial. HST November 27, 1844, page 125.19
We shall administer some wholesome instruction to the “Secretary” in our next. HST November 27, 1844, page 125.20
Our Defence.—We still have copies of this on hand which the friends can have by sending for them. Much good has already been done by its circulation among those who have maligned and slandered us without a cause. HST November 27, 1844, page 125.21
Meetings at the Tabernacle as usual on the Sabbath. Also on Tuesday and Friday evening. The meetings are well attended, and the brethren are in a good state. We have no cause for discouragement. Bro. F. G. Brown was with us last Sabbath and gave two thrilling discourses, much to the edification of the saints. HST November 27, 1844, page 125.22
Letter from Bro. Daniel A. Drown
“I will wait for the God of my salvation.” HST November 27, 1844, page 126.1
Micah 7:7. HST November 27, 1844, page 126.2
There are various exhortations, in the Scriptures, to the people of God, to exercise patience, under all their trials and disappointments, with the assurance that they shall be delivered in due time. Such patience is always conducive to our growth in grace, and will also fulfill the commands of our Divine Teacher; which will thereby promote his glory, and consequently our greatest happiness. This appears to be one of the last graces that we are exhorted to exercise, while on our wearisome pilgrimage; for we are first to perform the will of God, and then patiently to wait for our glorious deliverance. This part of the divine intention concerning us is to be accomplished without our co-operation; for “salvation is of the Lord.” Herein is gloriously exhibited the power and grace of God;—after we have arrived at that extremity, when it can emphatically be said, that “we are ready to perish,” then, He will appear for our deliverance, and particularly manifest himself as a God “near at hand” in time of trouble. To Him will belong the glory of our salvation, and we have every reason to believe that this will be accomplished in such a manner, that no flesh shall glory in his presence. This is what we desire, and confidently expect; and may the Lord grant us grace that we may be perfectly resigned to his will, and thus be prepared to honor and glorify his name. HST November 27, 1844, page 126.3
This salvation, as we have observed, is always to be obtained after patience has been exercised. When Jacob was about to depart after he had performed the will of God, he exclaimed (Genesis 49:18) “I have waited for thy salvation, O Lord!” We are exhorted in Psalm 37:7, to “Rest in the Lord and wait patiently;” and Isaiah says, “I will wait upon the Lord—and I will look for him,” which, perhaps, may be read as a collateral passage with Hebrews 9:28, “and unto them that look for him, shall he appear the second time, without sin, unto salvation.” HST November 27, 1844, page 126.4
“It is good that a man should both hope and quietly wait for the salvation of the Lord.” Lamentations 3:26, “And, therefore, will the Lord wait that he may be gracious unto you, and therefore will he be exalted that he may have mercy upon you: for the Lord is a God of judgement; blessed are they who wait for him.” Isaiah 30:18, “For ye have need of PATIENCE; that after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise.”—Hebrews 10:27, etc. HST November 27, 1844, page 126.5
It now appears to be a time when the children of God, who have believed in the immediate coming of their blessed Savior, are individually called upon to exercise this patience in their present state of trial, and to many, of disappointment. We expected, as we thought from premises fully established upon the sure word of testimony, that He, concerning whom Moses and the prophets did write, would have been revealed, ere this, in the clouds of heaven, with power and great glory; and we have in the honesty of our hearts reiterated, with increased delight, the language of John, “Come, Lord Jesus, and come QUICKLY.”—We could have rejoiced to have had it proclaimed that “the kingdoms of this world have become the kingdoms of our Lord and his Christ,” but as yet the desire of our hearts has not been gratified; nor have our fond expectations been realized. But we know that the Lord’s ways are not as our ways, and in our disappointment we have grace and confidence to say, that the Judge of all the earth will do right. We know that those, who have their wills entirely subjected to the divine will, will exclaim, “not my will but thine, O Lord! be done.” God’s dear children never feel to mourn at the ways of their Heavenly Father, though they may conflict with their dearest hopes and expectations; but feel that He will give them strength equal to their day, (Deuteronomy 33:25.) Though our hopes have not been realized, we believe that “He is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness, but is long suffering toward us, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance.” The Lord undoubtedly has thoughts of mercy towards us. Perhaps our confidence in his promises has not been fully tried, or if so, the time has now arrived when we can fully say that we “will wait for the God of our salvation.” We are confident, brethren, that the Lord will soon “be exalted” and will save us. We have committed ourselves unreservedly to him, and he will protect us, and presently bring us off “more than conquerors.” Never has he forsaken those who have put their trust in him. HST November 27, 1844, page 126.6
If we have the testimony in our hearts that our ways please God, and that we are, according to his word, quietly waiting for “the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our bodies,” we most assuredly have every promise in that word for our encouragement as well as for our consolation. We think that we have now arrived at that period in prophecy, when all the “signs” have been fulfilled; and now need more than ever “the grace of God that bringeth salvation.” We now feel more than ever, our own helplessness, and the need of that everlasting arm, which can keep us, “blameless” unto the coming of the Lord. HST November 27, 1844, page 126.7
We have followed the “pillar of cloud by day, and the pillar of fire by night,” and have not murmured against the Lord in our journey through this world; neither have our souls become “discouraged because of the way;” but we have put confidence in the Captain of our salvation, and we believe, according to his directions, that we have come down to the borders of the Red Sea. Here we are, hoping and expecting deliverance in the Lord’s own way—desiring the “consolation of Israel.” Will God in this extremity forsake his children, who have not shunned to obey his commandments? Will He forget his espoused and confiding bride? Can He desert those who are as dear to him as the apple of his eye? NO! His word is true; He cannot deny himself. 1 Samuel 12:22, “For the Lord will not forsake his people, for his great name’s sake, because it has pleased the Lord to make you his people.” Though all forsake us, the Lord will be the defence of his people, and they shall not be moved. HST November 27, 1844, page 126.8
At the present time, I think we are occupying a glorious position—a position which will soon be envied by the ungodly opposers of our “blessed hope.” The Lord will surely come, at the appointed time, to the mortification and distress of all those, who “will not have this man to rule over them,” but to the exultation and everlasting glory of all his dear people. HST November 27, 1844, page 126.9
Brethren! if any of you are in trouble, during these perilous times, you are seasonably exhorted to “call upon me in the day of trouble, I will deliver thee and thou shalt glorify me.” I believe it. Bless the Lord! “He that believeth in me, though he were dead, yet shall he live.” Yes, we must be dead to ourselves, and to the world, so that when “He who is the believer’s life shall appear, then shall we also”—our life being hid with Christ—“appear with him in glory.” HST November 27, 1844, page 126.10
God’s children, in this predicted state of trial, will not call upon him in vain. “And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though he bear long with them! I tell you he will avenge them speedily.” While the wicked, in their state of security, are “folded together as thorns;—and while they are drunken as drunkards, they shall be devoured as stuble fully dry.”—Nahum 1:10. While God’s people are patiently waiting the great consummation, He will “suddenly,” “as a snare,” “rise up to the prey,” and destroy his enemies. When the ungodly are rejoicing over the disappointments and supposed failures of second Advent believers, thus bringing greater blindness over their minds, and making the snare complete, “then the Lord will plead our cause, and execute judgement for us; and He will bring us forth to the light, that we may behold his righteousness.” HST November 27, 1844, page 126.11
Yours, in the hope of being numbered amongst the redeemed of the Lord, who shall return and come with singing unto Zion; with everlasting joy upon their heads; who shall obtain gladness and joy, when sorrow and mourning shall flee away. HST November 27, 1844, page 126.12
DANIEL A. DROWN.
Portsmouth, N. H., Nov. 6, 1844.
Letter from Bro. G. F. Cox
To Mr. Wm. Miller, Rev. J. Litch, and Rev. J. V. Himes. HST November 27, 1844, page 126.13
Dear Brethren:—I am glad that one of your number,—Bro. J. Litch,—has now abandoned the idea of ascertaining by any means now known, the specific time of the Second Advent of our blessed Lord. Rev. Mr. Himes, I believe, has given a similar intimation. Mr. Miller, I doubt not will, as he must now be satisfied, in the language of the Scriptures, that, he “knows not when the time is.” This we should have seen before hand, as it was a plain passage; and all such should be adhered to, in preference to those which are figurative. Had we adopted the two ideas, “ye know not when the time is,—and, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that He is near, even at the doors,” and brought all our arguments to bear upon these two points, we should probably have come at the truth. But instead of this, the public were required to believe in human tradition, (chronological data) as though it were the word of God. This was a great error, and no effort should be made to conceal it. I hope none will be made. It was the principal error. But on the above two texts was, and is, a basis broad enough to arouse hope, inspire watchfulness, and to induce all, if they would be induced, to seek a preparation for the coming event. And let me ask, was not this all that Providence originally designed should be known of the last great event by Prophecy? All that was necessary for the church was that she might know when she was near enough the shore to begin to watch for land, as we all expected a heavenly Pilot to take us into harbor. And this is all that is needed by the wicked. And I am inclined to believe such a view might move the mass of mind as readily to seek the Lord as a more definite time. Specific time might be needed for a proof of prophecy past, but it will not be needed for this in the last great act to the world. But whether this conjecture be true or false, one thing is now certain, “we know not when the time is,” nor does any mortal man; and as to conjecture, there is no end to it. HST November 27, 1844, page 126.14
I doubt not but in the movements of Providence, it may have been permitted for wise purposes that specific time should have been so successfully preached. The church had nearly lost the great truth, that Christ was coming again, so far as its practical character was concerned. If preached at all, it lay beyond the bounds of practical influence. I speak not as a universal, but general thing. But the subject has now been so fully presented, both in Europe and America, it will not, I believe, slumber again perfectly, till the Master appear. HST November 27, 1844, page 126.15
With this view of the subject, whatever we may conjecture, must we not, ought we not, to take the stand, with interest, with truth,—that the day—the year even, of Christ’s coming again, is concealed from mortal man; although evidences in abundance assure us that the great event is nigh, even at the doors. And because it is not known, it may come at any hour This it appears to me is the true ground to occupy. Allow me to say, here at least, I stand, and hope with God’s help still to abide thus. This too was the first view I took of the subject. The argument for the tenth day, seventh month, on the above grounds, I could not embrace. Besides the argument itself was defective. Every jot of the shadows is not always fulfilled; had it been so, the time of entering the Holy of Holies would be regarded: but they were not, and now cannot be. Yet the type has been sufficiently honored by the entering of the Holy place once for all. If not, it may be in another event. But because the time of entering was disregarded in this world, so may be the time of his coming out. But I know not, nor do I believe any one else can know. I never, however, felt greater confidence in the great principles of interpretation that we have applied to the prophecy of Daniel,—and some other portions of the divine word, than I now do. To these principles, and to the specific ones stated above—looking for Christ daily—believing him to be at the door. I feel as though I could go forth for life. I want no other views. I mean this is adapted to the wants of my nature. This would lead me to preach the gospel to the ends of the earth. It would prompt me to every other good word and work. It would restrain me, if that thought had any influence, from any thing contrary to them. Here I hope to live, or die, if need be. Here I will join you, God willing, with my whole heart. HST November 27, 1844, page 126.16
I think, too, you need not be disheartened. If the world hate you now, it hated you before. But if we have learned where our error is, then can we the better and the lighter go forth to work. It may be said, the world will not trust you as teachers. It may be so, but of this you will rejoice, and rejoice, too, if they will trust no man. This is what you have wanted. It is what the Bible teaches, Every man for himself to Bible. We are protestants. Come out then to your work. Come with the voice of charity. Thousands will greet you and rejoice to hear you. Come to the work—not for a day—nor a year—but for life. It may be but a day—it may be less than a year. Ye know not when the time is—but ye know it is nigh, even at the doors. You have started the storm, and by the help of God you must aid in guiding the elements. Besides, who will make the doctrine of Christ’s coming a prominent one, if the Adventists do not? I fear no one. It must now be held up by them, or slumber fatally. The Adventists need also that some errors be corrected. But who can do this as yourselves and associates. The brethren must be taught to go to their farms and shops, and abide there till their Lord comes. And the reasons must be given why. And your voice should be heard first, as it will now be heard most attentively. It was no objection to the woman grinding at the mill, that she was thus employed when her Master came. Nor was it an objection to the man in the field—or in bed—that he was found there. HST November 27, 1844, page 126.17
I hope, too, that provision will be made, if not done already, that in all the Advent congregations, the Sacraments—Baptism and the Lord’s supper, be duly administered—as well as Bible discipline—that those who cannot abide in the churches without suppressing their faith, may have a place to flee to, where they may speak without such embarrassment. I would not urge one out, but if he cannot abide peacefully, he had better seek another branch of Christ’s disciples. He who binds his conscience cannot grow in grace, and for that reason should never bind it, nor allow another to, were it even the Pope of Rome. But enough. The object of this is to say, I am an Adventist still. My heart is in the great work. I sympathize with you, and want you to be encouraged, and go forward with true christian zeal unincumbered if possible with error. In such a work, what little I may contribute to it, I will do, God willing, with all my heart. Saco Me., Nov. 7. 1844. G. F. Cox. HST November 27, 1844, page 127.1
Letter from Bro. E. Marsh
Dear Bro. Himes:—It will, no doubt, be gratifying to you to learn that the Advent brethren in this region are yet firm in the faith that the Lord will soon appear. It is true that those of us who were waiting and expecting the return of our Lord on the 23rd of October, have been greatly disappointed; yet, we feel not the least disposition to give up our faith in the belief that Christ will very soon come, to the joy and salvation of his waiting people. God has permitted man to make a mistake in the calculation of the time when Christ should make his second appearance:—but let us remember that this has been ordered by Infinite Wisdom, and those who are willing to bow in humble submission to His will, will find instruction and a rich blessing from this trial of their faith. HST November 27, 1844, page 127.2
I believed that October was the seventh month and that on the 22nd or 23rd of that month, we should witness the coming of the Savior in the clouds of heaven. HST November 27, 1844, page 127.3
In view of this great and glorious event, I closed my school previous to the 22nd, and tried, in the fear of God, to free my mind of every thing of a worldly character; spending the most of the time with my family; uniting with my wife in earnest prayer and supplication to God, to be prepared for that solemn and trying hour. And I must here say, that we have, since that time, had more enjoyment with God, than we ever before experienced. Yes, my brother, during a few days past, we have felt more sensibly than ever before, the love of God filling our hearts; and whatever may come hereafter we shall ever have reason to bless the Lord for this manifestation of His goodness and love, to such poor sinful worms of the dust. HST November 27, 1844, page 127.4
We were willing to “believe God’s truth, and venture out upon it.”—We placed ourselves upon the “large flat rock in the midst of the ocean,” and here we stand—and here we are willing and determined through grace to stand, till the “Prince” shall come to our deliverance. HST November 27, 1844, page 127.5
I know the Adventists are in a critical and trying situation; and our position at this time forcibly reminds me of that of the Israelites, when fleeing from Egyptian bondage. When they came to the Red Sea, they were compelled to stop; they could not retreat, for Pharaoh’s host was in the rear, and they must have fallen into the hands of their enemies, had not God appeared for their deliverance. When they were brought up to this critical and trying situation, “Moses said unto the people, fear ye not, stand still, and see the salvation of he Lord.”—Exodus 14:13. Yes, blessed be God, though His children may be brought into situations trying and distressing, yet he will appear for their deliverance. How precious are the promises which God has made to his children. “Fear thou not, for I am with thee; be not dismayed, for I am thy God; I will strengthen thee, yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”—Isaiah 41:10. I do hope that the Advent brethren every where, will remain firm in the faith, and suffer not the adversary of souls to lead them for a single moment from their watch tower. God is now making trial of our faith. Let us remember the declaration, “The just shall live by faith; but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him.”—Hebrews 10:38. Let us continually watch and expect the coming of our Lord, and we shall not be overtaken as a thief. “But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.”—1 Thessalonians 5:4. HST November 27, 1844, page 127.6
On the 21st of October, Bro. J. P. Weethee came to this place; and the next day delivered two lectures in the Congregational Church. HST November 27, 1844, page 127.7
On the 23rd, Bro. and Sister Weethee left here, accompanied by myself and family, for the neighborhood of Coal Run, about twenty miles below this, on the Muskingum river. Here Brother Weethee lectured several days, to large and attentive congregations, a goodly number of whom are firm Adventists. On Sunday the 27th, Bro. Weethee administered the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper to a large number, among whom were Baptists, Methodists and Cumberland Presbyterians. Sectarian prejudices seemed to vanish away; and it was, as I thought, a season of refreshing from the presence of the Lord. On our return home we tarried one night with Bro. Thompson, the one you baptized in this place. He is unshaken in the faith that Christ is at the door. HST November 27, 1844, page 127.8
We commenced a Second Advent prayer meeting at our house, the week you and Bro. Miller left here, and have continued them to the present time. We have found them profitable and refreshing to our souls; and we intend, in the strength of the Lord, to continue them, till our day of probation shall come to a close. HST November 27, 1844, page 127.9
Yours in the hope of soon meeting in the kingdom of our Heavenly Father. HST November 27, 1844, page 127.10
McConnelsville, Ohio, Nov. 11, 1844. HST November 27, 1844, page 127.11
The World.—Sweeping the political telescope over the horizon abroad, we fiind nothing very striking for description; although there is movement in all quarters—a storm either subsiding or brewing. France and Morocco lie upon their arms, reposing, but not reconciled. Spain is reconciled to her African ally; but is now busied with some revolutionary murmurs at home. Italy trembles at the stifled sound of insurrection. In Egypt, Mehemet Ali has used the panic caused by his mad escapade, to make his ministers confess some delinquency in their rule, and in penance to mulct themselves for the benefit of his treasury.—British India has no war upon her hands, but only a mutiny, and the distant sounds of barbarian contest in her slumbering ear. China is threatened with more instrusive negotiations, American and French; like boys who have seen one of their number rob an orchard, the American and Frenchman will noisily step in too, even at the risk of spoiling the sport for all. Fiscal differences have set the governor and people of Eastern Australia by the ears. All this is matter that little concerns us in England at present; but it promises to make incidents for the journals some day.—Zion’s Herald. HST November 27, 1844, page 127.12
Letter from Wm. Miller
Dear Bro. Himes:—I have been waiting and looking for the blessed hope, and in expectation of realizing the glorious things which God has spoken of Zion. Yes, and although I have been twice disappointed, I am not yet cast down or discouraged. God has been with me in Spirit, and has comforted me. I have now much more evidence that I do believe in God’s word; and although surrounded with enemies and scoffer’s, yet my mind is perfectly calm, and my hope in the coming of Christ is as strong as ever. I have done only what after years of sober consideration I felt it to be my solemn duty to do. If I have erred, it has been on the side of charity, the love of my fellow man, and my conviction of duty to God. I could not see that I should harm my fellow men, even supposing the event should not take place at the time specified, for it is a command of our Savior to look for it, watch, expect it, and be ready. Then if could by any means, in accordance with God’s word, persuade men to believe in a crucified, risen, and coming Savior, I felt it would have a bearing on the everlasting welfare and happiness of such. I had not a distant thought of disturbing our churches, ministers, religious editors, or departing from the best biblical commentaries or rules which has been recommended for the study of the scriptures. And even to this day, my opposers have not been able to show where I have departed from any rule, laid down by our old standard writers of the Protestant faith. I have only interpreted scripture in accordance with their rules, as I honestly believed. And not one honest man, who understands this question, will deny this assertion of mine. But that, over which I could have no control, transpired to produce on the public mind an unhappy effect. HST November 27, 1844, page 127.13
The public excitement commenced some six years ago. Although I had been proclaiming the Second Advent for six years before, there was not one of our churches that I visited, but what acknowledged the happy effects of the doctrine; and many were hopefully converted, who united themselves with the several sects as their own judgment dictated. In 1839 and 1840, the opposition to the doctrine began to rage, united with ridicule and misrepresentation. The Universalists commenced the contest, and were followed by every sect in our country. Then the brethren who loved the appearing of our Savior, found themselves among opposers. And instead of meeting sound argument and light among their former brethren, they were almost universally met with scoffing, ridicule, and misrepresentation. Odious names and cruel epithets were applied to us; and in many cases our motives were impugned, and a war of extermination was commenced against the Advent faith. Many of our brethren caught a measure of this spirit, and began to defend themselves in like manner, against the attacks of the several sects. The name of “Babylon,” and I am sorry to say it, was applied to all of our churches without any discrimination, although in too many instances it was not unjustly applied. We were thus placed at the time we expected our deliverance; and if Christ had come and found us in this condition, who would have been ready, purified and made white? But the time passed, and the Adventists were humbled; and thus we see that our God was wise and good, in the tarrying of the vision, to humble, purify and prepare us for an admittance into his blessed kingdom. HST November 27, 1844, page 127.14
I would now beg and pray, my brethren, that we may humble ourselves, avoid disputes, and enter into our chambers, and hide ourselves for a little while until the danger is over. Hold no unnecessary controversy with the despisers of our blessed hope, let us separate ourselves from them in very deed. We have thus far done all we could—and now is the time of their triumph, but it will be short. I am determined by the grace of God to follow this rule. God will fight our battles for us, and in due time we shall see who is the only Potentate. Now let patience have its perfect work. Our duty now is to comfort one another with these words strengthen those that are weak among us, comfort the feeble, establish the wavering, raise up the bowed down, speak often one to another, and for sake not the assembling of ourselves together; let our conversation be in heaven from whence we look for the Savior, for the time has now come for us to live by faith, a faith that is tried like gold seven times purified. Let us hold fast our profession without wrath or doubting, for he is faithful who has promised, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry. Let us be careful that we become not overcharged with the things of this world, and so that day come upon us unawares; but know brethren that the day will not come upon you as a thief; you will see and know the sign of the Son of man. HST November 27, 1844, page 127.15
I would advise you, Bro. Himes, to continue publishing your papers in Boston and New York. We must have a medium of communication with one another, so that amid the moral darkness which has shrouded the people on the prophecies, we may have light in all our dwellings. This cannot be far from the time. I feel confident that God will justify his word, and the time which we have preached; for we cannot have varied far from the truth in our own views of the seven times, the 2300 days, the 1335 days, the trumpets, etc. HST November 27, 1844, page 128.1
Brethren, hold fast; let no man take your crown. I have fixed my mind upon another time, and here I mean to stand until God gives me more light.—And that is To-day, To-day, and To-day, until he comes, and I see Him for whom my soul yearns.—Permit me to illustrate, by parable. HST November 27, 1844, page 128.2
A certain nobleman about taking a long journey, called together his servants, gave instructions to every one respecting their work, and commanded them to be faithful in their several occupations; and, at his return, he would reward every one as his work should be. He also informed them how many days he should be absent; but the time of night when he should return, he did not make known; yet, if they would watch, they should know when he was near, even at the door. And he informed them how they might know. They would first see the lights of his carriage in the distance, and they would hear the rumbling; of his carriage wheels, and go out to meet him, and open the portal gates for him immediately. Whether he should come in the first, second, third, or fourth watch, he would not then inform them; but commanded them to watch. After he was gone, many of the servants began to neglect their master’s business, and to form plans for their own amusement. Thus engaged, the days appointed for their master’s return were forgotten. The giddy whirl of dissipation had filled their mind, and Time passed rapidly along; and the days were nearly run out when some of the servants discovered in the steward’s book the number of days recorded when their master should return. This was immediately read in the hearing of the servants, and created no small excitement among them. Some said the time was not revealed, because the master said the watch was not known. Others said the master would never return, he would send his principal servant, and then they would have a feasting time to their own liking. Thus were they wrangling and disputing until the days, according to the best reckoning they could make, had run out, and the night came, in which some of them expected him. The porter, and a few others determined to watch, while the remainder of the servants were feasting and drinking.—The porter and his companions kept a good look out; for at the first watch, they expected their master. They thought they saw the light and heard the rumbling of the wheels. They ran among the servants and cried, “Behold the master cometh.” This caused no small stir among them, and many made preparation for their master’s return. But it proved to be a false alarm. Then those servants ridiculed the porter and his friends for their fears, as they called it, and returned to their feasting again. But the porter and his friends were still [original illegible] until the second watch, when they were again disappointed, and the servants were more vexed than ever. They how scoffed, and mocked, and then turned some of them out of doors. Again, they waited for the third watch, and again they were disappointed. Now the majority of the servants being more angry than ever, beat and bruised the porter and his friends, and turned them all out of the house, locked the doors, and laid themselves down to sleep. At the fourth watch the master came, and found the porter and a few of his companions watching. The doors were barred and the remainder of the servants were asleep. HST November 27, 1844, page 128.3
Now let me ask, Will the master condemn the porter and his friends for making three false alarms? Will he punish them for disturbing their carousing brethren? Which of these two classes of servants will have shown the most love for their master? Let every one answer to himself these questions, and decide his own case justly. Our former brethren say, they watch, but do not expect him. HST November 27, 1844, page 128.4
Bro. Himes, give us the signification of the word Watch. Yours as ever, looking, etc. HST November 27, 1844, page 128.5
Wm. Miller. Low Hampton, Nov. 10, 1844.
THE ADVENT HERALD
BOSTON, NOVEMBER 27, 1844.
Bro. Cox’s Letter.—Brother Cox came into the Advent faith some five years since. Although less active than some, he has always remained at his post; and we believe his influence on the cause, on the whole, has been favorable; and as it will now be thought by some, more so than those who took a different course. Be that as it may, both must stand or fall to their own master. The view be here presents, it will be perceived is nearly or quite the same that he presented to the public when he first embraced the doctrine. He did not sympathise with the recent movement, based upon the tenth day of the seventh month. He thought he saw defects in the argument, and so admonished his people—although he permitted his people to hear at length upon the subject—but with one or two exceptions, none embraced it. Perhaps on this account he may be heard by some with more—perhaps by others with less—interest. Truth, however, should stand upon its own basis. HST November 27, 1844, page 128.6
Letters from England
We have received several letters from our friends in England, within the last few weeks; but they communicate nothing of particular interest. The friends stand firm; where any have gone back, God has raised up others to take their place. There has been no general movement there respecting the seventh month, as there has been here; yet they are looking and watching for the great event. The brethren were much disappointed that Bro. Himes did not visit them; and they still importune him to come. HST November 27, 1844, page 128.7
We publish the following at the request of the writer, who has never been familiar with our views of prophecy. It is an instance out of many at the present time, of those who are not Adventists, who are impressed with the reality of momentous events being just upon us. Our faith is still founded, as it has been, only upon the word of God, which teaches us to look constantly for the coming of the Lord. Ed. HST November 27, 1844, page 128.8
To all who will heed the Warning of a Friend!
Note the Signs of the times and watch! Though the writer of these lines differs from the Adventists in sentiment, he dares not resist the influence which prompts him thus to speak. Like many others my mind has been most remarkably impresssed in these momentous times. HST November 27, 1844, page 128.9
The vivid impression upon my own mind, from much examination of the subject, is that the language of Scripture, teaches us, that before the actual coming of our Lord, there are to be signs to precede that event not yet fulfilled, as the Adventists suppose, though they may now be in actual operation. I wish to impress upon the minds of all, the importance of living as though to-morrow were to be the decisive day with them. HST November 27, 1844, page 128.10
I am led to take this course from a conviction of duty to warn the people, (not to forsake friends and families or the usual duties of life,) but to give all diligence in discharging their duties to God and man, from day to day, so as to insure their own salvation, and be prepared, if need be, for tribulation and persecution, such as has never yet been experienced; which I am led to believe is predicted ere the final coming of Christ, in Daniel 12th, and Mark 13th. HST November 27, 1844, page 128.11
I am well aware how the mind may be led astray by false impressions, but I am convinced that there is a solemnity in the case, which, if it could be realized by others would prompt them to give all diligence to be prepared to meet their God at any moment. I will not now utter all of what seems to me to be a vivid reality, lest I might have been led astray; yet is the impression so intense in its nature, that I believe the like has not been realized since, the days of the Apostles, and this prompts me to send forth this note of warning to the ends of the earth, if possible,—“Prepare to meet thy God!”—a duty, indeed, which every day requires of us, but which is most momentously important at the present time. HST November 27, 1844, page 128.12
I would most solemnly impress upon the mind of every individual, the duty of preparation for the event, at whatever hour it may come. Study and embrace the promises of Christ. Do your duty to God and to yourselves, and be ever watchful. Blessed are they who shall be found thus ready. HST November 27, 1844, page 128.13
One who feels it his duty to warn his Fellow Men. HST November 27, 1844, page 128.14
Foreign News
The Britannia arrived at this city on Friday morning last, with intelligence to the 4th inst., 15 days later than the previous arrival. We have received very little news of any moment, and nothing from Italy or Turkey, the principal points of interest to our readers. We make the following extracts from Willmer’s European Times:— HST November 27, 1844, page 128.15
Greece.—A correspondent writing from Athens on the 10th ult. gives the following somewhat extraordinary startling announcements:—“It is generally reported here that the three protecting powers, wearied with the affairs of Greece, intend to retire from any further interference” in the destiny of this country, to recall their ambassadors, and to abdicate in favor of Austria—some say Austria and Prussia combined—who is to be the future guardian of Greece, and will march into the country a corps of 15,000 men as an army of occupation till things get a little settled. Well-informed persons pretend, that although a startling announcement, and perhaps somewhat exaggerated, yet there is some truth at the bottom of this. It is quite clear to all impartial observers, that things cannot long go on as they are at present. The different conflicting interests of the three Powers, and their intrigues in Greece, only tend to embarrass the country, and make it impossible to carry on the Government. The great mistake in the appointment of the Regency was its being composed of three members, which led to discord, intrigues, and internal dissensions, which created wounds that the hand of time has not yet healed. HST November 27, 1844, page 128.16
China.—The accounts from China come up to August 1, but contain little of any interest. Several disturbances had lately been occasioned by attacks on the American factories at Canton—but these were headed by the very worst of the Chinese. Robbery and piracy were still prevalent to a great extent, but despite the efforts of the authorities, it seemed next to impossible to prevent their recurrence, and business remained exceedingly dull. HST November 27, 1844, page 128.17
Letters and Receipts to Nov. 23
Mary Ann Symes $1 50c pd to middle v 8; B Colby by pm $2 pd to end v 7, J H Shipman; Charles Perry 1$ pd to end v 8; P Dow by pm $1 pd to end v 8; Nathaniel Gun by pm $1 pd to middle v 9; C W Stewart $1 pd to eud v 8; L Brmce by pm $1 pd to end v 8; Joseph Davis by pm $1 pd to 177 in v 8; Chs C Bodge 50c pd to end v 8; W W Pratt $3 pd to end v 8; Chs Swasey 1 33c pd to end v 8; P B Becker by pm $1 pd to end v 4; M Gilson 50c pd to end v 8; J Hazleton by pm $1 pd to middle v 9; C Clark by pm $2 pd to middle v 10; T Skinner $2 58c pd to 185 in v 8; J Bump by pm 50c pd to 211 in v 9; L F Wooster by pm 50c pd to 191 in v 8. HST November 27, 1844, page 128.18
pm N Troy Vt; John Pearson and others; pm Lynn Ms; E Marsh; Joseph Proctor; M N Thurston; pm E Coriath Me; L. A Amesbury; pm Greenwich N Y; L P Judson; pm Loudon Ridge; pm Lowell Me; pm Sweet Home Ak; pm North Springfield Vt; Wm Miller; J Fairbanks $1; pm Marshfield Ms; pm Wheelock Vt; pm Great Falls N H; pm Bethleham N H; pm Oxford Ms; pm Vienna Me; R Bicks; J Rider; pm Vergennes Vt; A Clapp; L Bullough; pm Holmes’ Hole Ms; pm Wallingford Vt; pm Blackstone Mass; pm Taunton Mass. HST November 27, 1844, page 128.19