Ellen G. White: The Later Elmshaven Years: 1905-1915 (vol. 6)

The Misguided Would-Be Prophet

One particular matter was brought to her attention in October. A nurse at Boulder Sanitarium, a faithful and devoted young woman, felt impressed that the Lord had bestowed on her the gift of prophecy. It all began with a dream she had, followed by other “dreams” and “visions.” 6BIO 136.7

She declared that the Lord had given her positive evidence that she was called to take Sister White's place; that she would receive a telegram stating that Sister White was dead and that before her death, Sister White would write her that she was to be laid away and that the Lord had revealed to Sister White that she was to assume the mantel of the Lord's messenger (F. M. Wilcox to WCW, October 14, 1907). 6BIO 137.1

There was some excitement among the Sanitarium personnel, and there was some speculation as to whether or not her claims were really true. 6BIO 137.2

Among other points, she affirmed that “the Lord ... instructed her as to how she should comb her hair,” and “put her to the test as to whether she would give up different things for His sake, et cetera” (Ibid.). 6BIO 137.3

Not knowing to what proportions this might grow, Elder Wilcox, the business manager, felt Ellen White should know of what they were meeting. 6BIO 137.4

On October 23, she wrote: 6BIO 137.5

Dear Brother Wilcox: I received and read your recent letter. Regarding the sister who thinks that she has been chosen to fill the position that Sister White has occupied, I have this to say: She may be honest, but she is certainly deceived.—Letter 371, 1907. 6BIO 137.6