Ellen G. White and Her Critics

Letters Between Haskell and White

On April 2, 1884, S. N. Haskell, a key leader in the denomination, and particularly in the Tract Society work, wrote to W. C. White ^* and raised this question: “Now if it [Mrs. White’s book on Paul] has had its run among our people would it be policy to try it for a canvassing book?” Evidently he thought the Adventist market was saturated. He discusses the possibility of resetting the type, using heavier paper, etc., in order to make a book that would be attractive for sale by colporteurs. EGWC 443.1

In 1907, Amadon, trying to recall the events of twenty-four years before, declares not only that the book was “promptly” withdrawn, but that such withdrawal was made despite “very great” “demand” for it. Haskell, writing at the very time when this withdrawal is supposed to have taken place, not only fails to hint of such a step, but suggests a further edition, which might be used by colporteurs. So far from thinking that the Adventist demand for the book was then “very great”—and remember, he was one of the leaders in book promotion in the denomination—he suggests that probably the book “has had its run among our people.” EGWC 443.2

Incidentally, if the book had “had its run” there would hardly be much point to using space in the Review for special advertising of it. That probably explains why the advertising promotion of it in that journal ended with the close of 1884. However it continued to be promoted in the Signs of the Times, as a premium, during most of 1885. EGWC 443.3

But let us go on with our examination of the Haskell letters. EGWC 443.4

On April 7, 1884, Haskell writes to White from Battle Creek, Michigan, and again raises the question of preparing a special colporteur edition. This time he suggests that the book should be illustrated. He evidently feels that the colporteurs are needing a new book, because he adds: “If you think it not best to make that use of your mother’s book then I will try R & H [Review and Herald publishing house] on [Uriah Smith’s] U. S. in Prophecy.” EGWC 443.5