Letters and Manuscripts — Volume 19 (1904)

Lt 323, 1904

Palmer, Brother and Sister [E. R.]

Glendale, California

December 12, 1904

Previously unpublished.

Dear Brother and Sister Palmer,—

I am sitting on a lounge in my room in the Glendale Sanitarium. A fire is burning in the fireplace, and this makes it very comfortable. We find the weather here very much cooler than it was in San Diego. Today a fine, misty rain is falling. I have had several spells of coughing today, but I have been taking honey and eucalyptus, and this is helping me. I do not feel very well; for there is a tremendous load upon my mind. In response to Sister Simpson’s urgent inquiries, I have had to tell her that her husband is not qualified to be the business manager of this institution. It makes me sick to have to do this, and I shall be sick until the whole matter is settled. 19LtMs, Lt 323, 1904, par. 1

I know that some of the arrangements that we shall have to make will be very disappointing to Dr. Simpson. Nevertheless I must bear the message that it is so hard for me to bear—that Brother Simpson is not capable of filling the place of manager. He has not the necessary spiritual qualifications. I am afraid that if he is not put in as business manager, we shall not be able to retain Dr. Simpson. I do not see how we can spare her. But the Lord Jesus knows all about our perplexities. I am very sorry that things are as they are, but I must speak the truth just as it is and let the result be what it may. The man who has charge of this institution must have an intelligent, practical experience in the things of God. He must be able to do the work necessary to be done. 19LtMs, Lt 323, 1904, par. 2

On reaching here, we found Brother and Sister Simpson and their family living out at Glendale. A few of the rooms have been furnished. The new treatment rooms have been added to the building and are now being plastered. The first coat of plaster is on, and the second will be put on the last of next week. As soon as possible, the institution will be prepared for the reception of patients, but there is much yet to be done. 19LtMs, Lt 323, 1904, par. 3

This is an expensive building, costing the original owners about forty thousand dollars, but much of the money was absorbed in outside appearance. There are three or four small towers on the house. Inside the building is not so well finished as the Paradise Valley Sanitarium. The woodwork in general is not so substantial. The rooms are pleasant, and the location of the building is very good. The place is a sightly one. There are eucalyptus trees, pepper trees, and pine trees in the garden. 19LtMs, Lt 323, 1904, par. 4

Everything was made very pleasant and convenient for me in the Paradise Valley Sanitarium. We do not find things quite so convenient here, but no one is to blame. I have been heartily welcomed. 19LtMs, Lt 323, 1904, par. 5

I am glad to know that you have such good, substantial furniture in your building. Watch the papers, and you may have opportunity to make other purchases such as those you have already made. But do not purchase a cheap class of furniture. It is a loss to do this. I hope that you are still successful in your efforts to get a good supply of water. 19LtMs, Lt 323, 1904, par. 6

May the Lord strengthen and bless and teach and guide you at every step. Oh, the Lord is good! Let us praise His holy name, and talk courage and hope. I think of you all. I think of the well digger and pray that no accident may befall him. He has done excellent service, as have all the workmen. They have labored as if it were their own property they were trying to improve. 19LtMs, Lt 323, 1904, par. 7

Let us all seek the Lord most earnestly, expecting to receive the blessing. He will help us, and He would have us hopeful and cheerful, our hearts filled with thanksgiving and praise. Let us not look on the dark side, but on the bright side; and let us talk faith and hope and courage, and hold fast to the hand of divine power. 19LtMs, Lt 323, 1904, par. 8

I hope that we shall hear from you now and then. I am sorry to hear that Sister Rathbun has come down with the influenza. 19LtMs, Lt 323, 1904, par. 9

In love 19LtMs, Lt 323, 1904, par. 10