Manuscripts and Memories of Minneapolis

C. Eldridge to W. C. White, Dec. 30, 1892

C. Eldridge to W. C. White Dec. 30, 1892

Now in reference to the criticising, and combating the articles in the Review, and the bad effect it has had upon our brethren in foreign countries: It is true that there are some things which has appear in the Review which ought not to have appeared. There are some mistakes which have been made, and I suppose there will be as long as we are in this mortal state. Bro. Smith should not have allowed Bro. Jones’s articles to go into the Review if he was going to criticise them afterwards. It was in his power, and his privilege not to have it printed if he so choose; but after it was printed, then to combat it, it seemed to the outside people that it was printed for the purpose of bringing about a fight, butt that was far from Bro. Smith’s intentions. He wished to present both sides of the question and let the people judge; but in that there was a mistake. However, I presume it seemed worse to you in the distance than it does to us here. Things are not so bad as they appear. I do not think that you need to fear any more such occurrences in the Review. While Bro. Smith has not changed, I do not think he will let anything go into the Review which he is obliged to fight. Those lamentable affairs that appeared in the Review sometime ago were not for the best interest of the work, they did not show the best qualities in Bro. Smith; it has brought upon him harsh criticism which he does not deserve, and has caused a feeling of disrespect and doubt, both for him, and the paper. It is to be regretted. But time and a good influence of our brethren will modify and soften it. MMM 232.1

[Portion deleted] MMM 233.1

I think I have answered all your questions, and have not much more to add. The work here at Battle Creek is moving a long as usual. Theologically there are some differences of opinion, but there is no bitterness, and there is nothing being said that will injure the work. There seems to be a disposition on the part of everybody to do what they think is right Only yesterday the question came up before the Book Committee whether we should adopt Elder A. T Jones’ pamphlet upon Judge Brewer’s decision. Everybody was in favor of it but myself, and I opposed it. It was my right and my privilege to do so. He took the position that the government has established religion in the United States by the decision of Judge Brewer. I took the position that Justice Brewer’s decision did not establish religion in the United States. His pamphlet argued that it did, and I did not vote for it. In fact I voted against the pamphlet’s going out. That is all there is to it; Bro. Jones and I are good friends. He recognizes my right to believe or disbelieve, and I recognize his right, and respect his opinion in reference to it. That is where it ends. Nobody knows my decision except the Book Committee, the stenographer, and yourself, and perhaps no one will unless some one examines the minutes of the Book Committee. I do not take she strong position that Bro. Jones does, and yet I may wrong. If I am, the quicker I get right the better. MMM 234.1

Please give my regards to your mother, and all the inquiring friends. With love, I remain, as ever, MMM 234.2

Your brother,
(Signed, C. Eldridge)