Ellen G. White: The Progressive Years: 1862-1876 (vol. 2)

The Slow Recovery of James White

With James White making a very gradual recovery, his wife's attention was given almost wholly to his care. She found there must be a constant perseverance to encourage him to manifest faith and exert himself in those activities that would keep his mind off his weakness and discomforts, and keep the way open for his restoration. Thus during the summer of 1866, following the successful visit to Monterey in mid-June, other trips were taken by carriage to nearby churches, with beneficial results. During this time James did no writing and carried no responsibilities. But communications from the field to the Review were addressed to “Brother White,” in spite of the fact that the editor, Uriah Smith, carried the full burden of the paper. 2BIO 153.2

The large enterprise calling for attention in Battle Creek was getting the Health Reform Institute into full swing. As noted, J. N. Loughborough was leading out in this. [For a detailed account of launching the medical institution in battle creek, and a portrayal of the vicissitudes in learning to finance and operate the western health reform institute, see The Story of Our Health Message, 143-190.] In fact, as noted earlier, Loughborough was really the active administrator of both the Michigan Conference and the General Conference, being a member of both committees. 2BIO 153.3

Ellen White was able to get in a little writing of personal testimonies. Most likely the article “Dress,” published in Testimonies, volume 1, pages 456-466, was largely written at this time. Her husband's recovery was her prime interest. 2BIO 153.4