Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 5 (1887-1888)

Lt 6, 1887

Maxson, Brother and Sister

Basel, Switzerland

May 20, 1887

Previously unpublished.

Dear Brother and Sister Maxson:

I received your letters and read them with interest. I think you could not have received my last letter to you, stating the reasons why you were not either of you qualified to stand at the head of an institution. As you make no reference to this letter which I sent to your address, in Brooklyn (I think), you may not have received it. 5LtMs, Lt 6, 1887, par. 1

I accept your explanations and am glad indeed that there was no occasion given to Dr. Kellogg to think that there was underhanded work in the removal of you both from the sanitarium. If all on your part has been open and frank, I have reason to praise God, and you have much greater reason to be rejoiced; for the books of heaven will reveal every secret thing, whatever may be its character. 5LtMs, Lt 6, 1887, par. 2

I see your feelings are still averse to going to California. I know not how strong have been the invitations from California for you to go there. I have urged their sending for you, as I thought you might be a blessing there. But whatever they have written, let it not bear with that weight upon your mind as to lead you to give your consent to go, when you do not consider it in the light of a privilege or a duty to connect with the Health Retreat. 5LtMs, Lt 6, 1887, par. 3

I know they are somewhat cautious, as they have had their confidence abused in Dr. Chase and also in others that have connected with them, and they have had a very sorry time of it until Dr. Gibbs united with the institution. They are now more cautious in their plans. 5LtMs, Lt 6, 1887, par. 4

Should you go to California because urged to do so, when your heart and desire is opposed to going, it would be unhappy for you and also for them. In consideration of this, I will release you, as far as I am concerned, from all further burden in this direction. I will make no more calls to you. Look to the Lord; obtain guidance from above. I have said in the matter all I could say, and you have shown a decided unwillingness to go to California. I hope you will walk in the light of your duty and be happy in doing the very things you should do to be a blessing to others and to glorify God. I am sorry that you have been so unwilling to go to California. 5LtMs, Lt 6, 1887, par. 5

Yours with respect. 5LtMs, Lt 6, 1887, par. 6