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

The Report to Elder Haskell

Clarence Crisler had occasion to write to Elder S. N. Haskell on Thursday, December 24, and had something to say about the subject in which so many were interested, Ellen White's state of health. “On some days,” he said, “she is stronger than on others; but she is not so strong now as when you were last with us. “Crisler told Haskell that she gives consideration to some questions connected with the advancement of the general work, and goes over with them the manuscripts being prepared from her writings for publication. 6BIO 416.4

He observed that “she is more often brain-weary, and when weary, she is forgetful,” and “forgets details.” But she was in possession of remarkably clear concepts of religious and spiritual matters. He wrote: 6BIO 416.5

Her mind seems to keep unusually clear on scriptural subjects and especially on the precious promises of the Word; and so her meditations are sweet, and she has comfort and joy through the consolation the Bible affords every Christian. 6BIO 417.1

“At other times,” Crisler went on to say, “she has much to say of former times, and becomes reminiscent concerning her associates of years gone by; and then she seems much as when you were with us.” Crisler went on: 6BIO 417.2

There are many times, too, when her mind is fruitful on Bible themes; and we are endeavoring to take advantage of such times, and to present before her for her careful consideration that which must receive her personal attention prior to publication in book or article form. Were it not for the special interposition of God in her behalf, I doubt not but that she would find difficulty in keeping up this line of work; but with Heaven's blessings we have found it possible to advance slowly yet surely. Every advance step taken in the finishing of manuscript work brings to her real delight; and she rejoices in the privilege of being permitted still to use her talents in binding about the edges, as she says, and in rounding out her work in proper form, that the “well done” may be spoken of her when she rests from her labors. 6BIO 417.3

One of the last reports of the year yields a picture of Ellen White “comfortable as usual,” “sitting by the open fireplace” and visiting with household members of “those...who may come in to see her” (CCC to WCW, December 28, 1914). And on this day, Crisler and Ellen White read over another of the Nehemiah chapters. 6BIO 417.4