Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 3 (1876 - 1882)

Lt 4a, 1876

White, J. S.

April 8, 1876

Portions of this letter are published in 3SM 104; 7MR 279-280.

Dear Husband:

In Willie’s letter you inquire in regard to your property, horse and wagon. Both [are] in good condition, especially [the] horse, who exhibited his balky propensities yesterday morning before Mary Clough. He was disposed to go every way but the one he should go. Willie will sell him for what he can get. The Tribune men have used him to carry their forms back and forth; paid three dollars each week. He has been used in drawing lumber and for different purposes, so that he has paid his way. But I am going to watch for an opportunity and interest others to get me a good team, not so very expensive, but manageable, that Mary and I can use to ride out where and when we please. 3LtMs, Lt 4a, 1876, par. 1

Dr. Kellogg spoke at the hall on [the] health question last night. Quite a full house. Mary and Sister Rice were present. They said he talked well. He spoke on Sabbath. Those who attended said [they] had a very good meeting. I did not go. 3LtMs, Lt 4a, 1876, par. 2

Brother Jones has decided to stay in Oakland and be at home. 3LtMs, Lt 4a, 1876, par. 3

In regard to publishing my book here, what do you think of it? The manuscript could at once be put in the hands of the printers. Will you please inform us in reference to this. 3LtMs, Lt 4a, 1876, par. 4

I have liberty in writing and I plead with God daily for counsel and that I may be imbued with His spirit. I then believe that I shall have help and strength and grace to do the will of God. 3LtMs, Lt 4a, 1876, par. 5

I am glad you are so free and happy. I never had such an opportunity to write in my life and I mean to make the most of it. I do not think it advisable to go east at all this summer. It would just break me up and I see no positive necessity for it. But if I feel that God would have me go, I shall gladly pick up and come along, because I want to do just what would please my heavenly Father. 3LtMs, Lt 4a, 1876, par. 6

I am not intruded upon by anyone. I am not called away from my work by anyone. Brethren W. and L. do not lay any burdens upon me or trouble me with any perplexities. I am left free and undisturbed. My ideas seem clear. My health is generally good, and I am seeking the Lord for perfect health in eyesight and for clearness of mind. I feel that Jesus is very precious to me and very near to me. At times, my mind is in perfect peace, and I can say with joyfulness, I know that my Redeemer liveth. Our work and the truth we are trying to get before the people never seemed as precious as now. 3LtMs, Lt 4a, 1876, par. 7

How will it do to read my manuscript to Elders Waggoner and Loughborough? If there is any wording of doctrinal points not so clear as might be, he might discern it. (W., I mean). We might [place] the matter in the tract Redemption in the printer’s hands at once, if needed, two forms can be struck off. Thus we can have plates prepared [and] sent at once to Battle Creek for you to print for camp meetings. Write or telegraph. Shall we go ahead? 3LtMs, Lt 4a, 1876, par. 8

In love. 3LtMs, Lt 4a, 1876, par. 9