Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 1 (1844 - 1868)

Lt 1a, 1868

White, J. E.

Greenville, Michigan

January 19, 1868

Previously unpublished.

Dear Son Edson:

We arrived at Brother Howe’s all safe, about eight o’clock. At noon stopped at Vermontville. Called for a room and spread our dinner upon the table and enjoyed our meal. Tell Martha the lunch was excellent. We engaged in conversation with the landlady. She was very sociable. Learned that she came from Roosevelt, New York. Was well acquainted with our people there. Had attended our meetings. I did want some books to distribute, but had not one. 1LtMs, Lt 1a, 1868, par. 1

We became quite cold about dark, and had yet to go twelve miles. Stopped at Linglinger’s, about a mile out of the way, to warm. He was overjoyed to see us. When we left he gave me five cakes of maple sugar, about twelve pounds in all. 1LtMs, Lt 1a, 1868, par. 2

We found a houseful at Brother Howe’s. Clorinda was there, with her husband, and little three-year-old Elsa, her babe and adopted daughter, beside the regiment of children, of young ones of Brother Howe’s. We met Brother and Sister Sawyer at this place. We were exceedingly weary. I had not felt well through the day. My head troubles me much. 1LtMs, Lt 1a, 1868, par. 3

Early next morning we started for Ionia. Tarried at Brother Olmstead’s to take dinner. Met a hearty reception from them. Got to our own home about four o’clock, and in one hour teams drove up from Wright. Quite a number were out from Wright. 1LtMs, Lt 1a, 1868, par. 4

Our meetings were good. Twelve children started to serve the Lord. Among them was Franklin Davis. He seemed broken and made humble confessions. Johnny Cranson came forward without much urging. All spoke with deep feeling. It was quite an affecting scene. We could not labor much. I was so feeble, but I spoke twice with freedom. There were quite a number from Bushnell, Orleans, Orange, and Wright. The blessing of the Lord attended these meetings. 1LtMs, Lt 1a, 1868, par. 5

Last night I attended meeting. Had a bed prepared on the seat, from a buffalo robe and cushion, and lay down all through the meeting. It was a conference meeting. I had especial labor for Gravel and Noyce and wife. Gravel made quite a fuss, but last night walked to the meeting and made quite an humble confession. Next week shall go to Wright. 1LtMs, Lt 1a, 1868, par. 6

Edson, I wish you would ask George to inquire in meeting if anyone has a book titled, The Martyrs of Spain, and another, Sanford and Mertin. Both were presented us by Brother Andrews. The first was mine, the last Willie’s. If they have any books belonging to me, have them bring them in. 1LtMs, Lt 1a, 1868, par. 7

Edson, I hope you will, while attending school, watch and pray. Maintain a close walk with God. Be circumspect in your words and actions. I will send you a few lines as often as I can. Be true to your profession, and may the Lord bless you. In love from your Mother. 1LtMs, Lt 1a, 1868, par. 8

P.S. Preserve the things you have towards keeping house for yourself. My sewing machine table was not brought from Brother Lunt’s. I am sorry, for I want it. That soapstone griddle, send by Brother Loughborough if he can bring it. If the table can be brought, have that come also. 1LtMs, Lt 1a, 1868, par. 9

Send the books mentioned by Brother Loughborough. 1LtMs, Lt 1a, 1868, par. 10

Mother.