Preston, Brother and Sister Saratoga Springs, New York October 19, 1851 Portions of this letter are published in 5MR 226-227; 8MR 223-224. See also Annotations. Dear Brother and Sister Preston:
We received a letter a few days since from Brethren [Ira] Abbey and [Wm.] Hyatt.
(1LtMs, Lt 1, 1851, 1)
The letter stated that the little band in your vicinity were rising, it also stated that Brother William Wakefield wanted the paper. We have sent the papers to him, all the while James has never erased his name from our list. If he has not received the papers it must be in the office now, [for] he has sent his paper regularly ever since last winter to McConnellsville, [near] Vienna, N. Y. Brn. should not be so heedless whom we send the papers to as to let them lie in the office.
(1LtMs, Lt 1, 1851, 2)
Our meeting yesterday was interesting; especially in the evening the Spirit of God settled upon us like the dew upon the mown grass and our hearts were made joyful in God. We feel the need of being fully prepared and fitted to stand in the battle in the day of the Lord. We are doing up work for Eternity, and may the Lord help us that we may have it done and well done that we may receive the refreshing and latter rain that is soon to come from God upon all those who are zealous of good works.
(1LtMs, Lt 1, 1851, 3)
It becomes us to search our hearts carefully and have every wrong purged away from us that we may be pure and holy, and stand in the clear light of God where we can shed a holy influence.
(1LtMs, Lt 1, 1851, 4)
We love you as we ever have; should be pleased to hear from you but much more pleased to see you. I hope and pray that the enemy may make no more inroads. Strive hard to preserve union among you, where there is union there is strength, and God will work among you, by you, and through you, if you will only strive to be wholly consecrated to God and be at peace among yourselves, and each one strive with all their might to keep the victory over self and over every besetment, every wrong word and action.
(1LtMs, Lt 1, 1851, 5)
We do not think that we shall be able to attend the conference at Camden, or I might say, it is impossible for us to attend it unless we give up the paper entirely. We shall start next Thursday for the east to be gone three weeks and the paper must be delayed. The flock of God need the paper and must have it.
(1LtMs, Lt 1, 1851, 6)
Aunt Rachel [Cushing] sends her love to you both and Jennetta and Gilbert and Sister [Nelson] Curtis. Tell Sister Curtis for me to keep up good courage to hope in God. He will not leave nor forsake her. Sister Clarissa [Bonfoey] is better than she has been for months. Aunt Rachel’s health is good; the spring water does her good. Sarah and Stephen [Belden] enjoy health. The spring water agrees with us all but Clarissa. Edson is smart and well; he talks very plain. James’ health is quite good for him. We are striving for eternal life and we know that Heaven will be cheap enough if we have to go through suffering and afflictions to get there.
(1LtMs, Lt 1, 1851, 7)
Much love to Sister Almiry Preston and Bro. and Sister Prior, Brother and Sister [Elmer] Waters, Brother Alonzo [Abby] and wife and Brother Ira and wife and Brother Hyatt and accept much yourselves. Love to your children. Tell them to be faithful and of good courage.
(1LtMs, Lt 1, 1851, 8)
In love.
(1LtMs, Lt 1, 1851, 9)
We have some good times, we love to have Aunt Rachel with us. She is of our company and we could not part with her anyway.
(1LtMs, Lt 1, 1851, 10)
Much love to Lucinda [Abbey] and all the children.
(1LtMs, Lt 1, 1851, 11)
Lt 2, 1851
Pierce, Br. Refiled as Lt 15, 1857.
Lt 3, 1851
Hastings, Harriet Saratoga Springs, New York August 11, 1851 Portions of this letter are published in 3SM 260-261; LDE 286-287. See also Annotations. Dear Sister Harriet:
I sit down by candle light to address you a few lines. We are all quite well and smart today. We have just been moving and are not settled yet. Last Tuesday we moved to Saratoga Springs, and the same day that we moved No. 1, Volume 2 of the paper came off and we folded and wrapt them. Not having a table to wrap and fold on, we took a fireboard and put it on an old sink and made that answer; and by sitting up very late we got the papers into the mail next morn.
(1LtMs, Lt 3, 1851, 1)
Yesterday, which was Sabbath, we had a sweet, glorious time. The Lord met with us and the glory of God was shed upon us and were made to rejoice and glorify God for His exceeding goodness unto us. I had a deep plunge in the ocean of God’s love. It seemed that the angels of God were hovering all around. The love of God was shed abroad in my heart, my whole being was ravished with the glory of God and I was taken off in vision. I saw the exceeding loveliness and glory of Jesus. His countenance was brighter than the sun at noonday. His robe was whiter than the whitest white.
(1LtMs, Lt 3, 1851, 2)
How can I, dear Sister, describe to you the glories of heaven, and the lovely angels singing and playing upon their harps of ten strings? Dear Sister, is not heaven cheap enough?
(1LtMs, Lt 3, 1851, 3)
I saw that we sensed and realized but little of the importance of the Sabbath, to what we yet should realize and know of its importance and glory. I saw we knew not what it was yet to ride upon the high places of the earth and to be fed with the heritage of Jacob. But when the refreshing and latter rain shall come from the presence of the Lord, and the glory of His power, we shall know what it is to be fed with the heritage of Jacob and ride upon the high places of the earth. Then shall we see the Sabbath more in its importance and glory. But [we] shall not see it in all its glory and importance until the covenant of peace is made with us at the voice of God, and the pearly gates of the New Jerusalem are thrown open and swing back on their glittering hinges, and the glad and joyful voice of the lovely Jesus is heard, richer than any music that ever fell on mortal ear, bidding us to enter, that we had a perfect right in the city for we had kept the commandments of God, and heaven, sweet heaven is our home for we have kept the commandments of God.
(1LtMs, Lt 3, 1851, 4)
Dear Sister, after I came out of vision this world looked desolate to me, the views that God has given me have spoiled this world for me. Nothing here looks lovely. I rejoice with you that you have turned your back upon the world and are laying up for yourself a treasure in heaven, an enduring substance. Praise the Lord.
(1LtMs, Lt 3, 1851, 5)
Monday morn. You speak about going to Paris and about our coming there again, and you meeting us in Boston. The Lord showed me about four or five weeks ago that we must not go to Paris again, that they had not appreciated our labors there, and that they would yet desire to see some of the servants of God in Paris. I saw that they had not heeded the visions that God has given them, and unless they did heed them they would pass through awful trials and judgments.
(1LtMs, Lt 3, 1851, 6)
I saw that Brother Stevens’ and Andrews’ families would have to die a greater death to this world than they ever yet have died. It is impossible for me to describe to you their present state. Their letters that they write you may appear to be spiritual and interesting, but they are in a dark place. They think a great deal too much of their appearance and are proud, and are much more devoted to themselves than they are to God.
(1LtMs, Lt 3, 1851, 7)
Do not go to Paris. If you go anywhere go to Topsham, Maine, to Brother Howland’s, the one that has the charge of my little boy Henry. You would meet a hearty reception from them, and Frances and Rebekah you could but love. Frances is 23, Rebekah is 16. It would not cost so much to go from Boston to Topsham as it would to go from Boston to Paris. You would be disappointed greatly if you should go to Paris. You had much better remain where you are. I write this to you in confidence, that you may know just how things stand in Paris.
(1LtMs, Lt 3, 1851, 8)
You ask respecting the ages of Brother Thompson’s family. Betsey the eldest is 24, Sally, the next is 22, Nancy is 20, Mary is 12. They are very interesting girls and believe that we have the truth, and are willing to do all they can to help the cause.
(1LtMs, Lt 3, 1851, 9)
Brother Cushman has four daughters. Two have been married and have children, but are now at home, their husbands being so opposed that they could not live with them, and they brought both of their wives to Brother Cushman’s, and their children. They are very interesting women. The two youngest are 20 and 17. Margaret is 20, Anna is 17, I believe. Then he has another daughter married in the faith, and one son married and one unmarried. They are good children.
(1LtMs, Lt 3, 1851, 10)
Sister Thompson reminds me of your mother, she looks much like her. Much love to Sister Gorham. Tell her to trust wholly in God. He will take care of her. We received the two dollars she sent but are afraid she sent too much for her limited means. We received the four dollars that your father sent. One dollar was to go for the visions. I believe three for the paper. If this is not correct please inform us.
(1LtMs, Lt 3, 1851, 11)
Much love to all the children and your father. Write us soon.
(1LtMs, Lt 3, 1851, 12)
In love.
(1LtMs, Lt 3, 1851, 13)
Lt 4, 1851
Dodge, Brother and Sister Ballston Spa, New York July 21, 1851 This letter is published in entirety in 5MR 99-101. See also Annotations. Dear Brother and Sister Dodge:
I now sit down to address you a few lines. The reason I have not written before is [that] my time has been improved. I have been writing out the visions for publication and expected them to be out sooner and then you could have them in print; but as the first paper is delayed and you will be anxious to learn something of our calculations, I will wait no longer.
(1LtMs, Lt 4, 1851, 1)
After you left us we began to enquire of the Lord what He would have us to do, or where we should publish, and it was shown me in vision that James must lay his hand to the work and strive to open the way, and if the way should bend before him, he must remain; but if it was shut up and did not open, we must go elsewhere. James has been doing as God showed me he must do, and the way has opened before him so that the first paper will be off today, and will be folded and in the office tomorrow morning. He does his publishing at Saratoga, nine miles from here. We have not yet got a house. We shall get one as soon as possible near the Springs where it will be only a few miles from the printing office. We expect our friends this week from Maine, and in about three weeks shall be entirely settled, if not before.
(1LtMs, Lt 4, 1851, 2)
After we parted with you and came to Brother Thompson’s, we felt a great interest for this family especially the children; and Tuesday morning we felt agony of soul for them. We felt that God must work for them, and our earnest, united prayers ascended within the second veil; we claimed the promises for them, and for the first time their voices were heard in prayer. They had a good time that morn, and now they generally pray morning and evening. God is at work for them; praise His holy name.
(1LtMs, Lt 4, 1851, 3)
There is a stir all around here since the conference reports are being carried. (Evil of course.) Some are anxious to hear for themselves and will come to the meetings. The visions trouble many. They [know] not what to make of them. We shall have the visions published in pamphlet form and if all the particulars are not published in the pamphlet, that I saw at Brother Cushman’s, and if you desire it, I can write if off for you. As it was coming out so soon in the pamphlet, I thought that you would not wish me to write them all off for you. We now think that you can have the book in about four weeks.
(1LtMs, Lt 4, 1851, 4)
You must write us upon the reception of this. Do not delay. We want much to hear from you. My health has been quite poor for a short time; the heat affects me, and I have had a very distressing turn of losing my breath. I am weak still; but better than I have been. James’ health is the same as when you saw him. We are longing to be delivered from this body of suffering, and put on a glorious immortality.
(1LtMs, Lt 4, 1851, 5)
Be strong in the Lord dear friends. Hold fast whereunto you have attained. Much love to those dear friends I saw at Camden, and all the saints that I have not seen. Tell them to exercise strong and living faith in God, and be united strongly with each other, and not be easily tried. Where there is union there is strength. Be firm and valiant for God and His cause. I should love to see you all, and perhaps we may before Jesus comes. The truth is triumphing, and will still triumph, more and more. Be sure and write us, all of you, and we will try to answer your letters.
(1LtMs, Lt 4, 1851, 6)
Your sister in much love and great haste.
(1LtMs, Lt 4, 1851, 7)
Lt 5, 1851
Barnes, Brother Saratoga Springs, New York December 14, 1851 Portions of this letter are published in 1Bio 224; 8MR 225. See also Annotations. Dear Brother Barnes:
I received a few lines from Bro. Hewett. He wishes me to write whether I have seen in vision it is wrong to use tobacco.
(1LtMs, Lt 5, 1851, 1)
I have seen in vision that tobacco was a filthy weed, and that it must be laid aside or given up. Said my accompanying angel, “If it is an idol it is high time it was given up, and unless it is given up the frown of God will be upon the one that uses it and he cannot be sealed with the seal of the living God. If it is used as a medicine, Go to God, He is the great Physician and those that use the filthy weed for medicine greatly dishonor God.” There is a “balm in Gilead”; there is a “physician there.” [Jeremiah 8:22.] “Be ye clean that bear the vessels of the Lord.”“Be ye clean that bear the vessels of the Lord.” [Isaiah 52:11.]
(1LtMs, Lt 5, 1851, 2)
I saw that Christ will have a church without spot or wrinkle or any such thing to present to His Father, and as He leads us through the pearly gates of the New Jerusalem, or the golden city, Jesus will look upon His redeemed children and see of the travail of His soul and be satisfied. Glory be to God; that will be a great salvation, purchased for us by our lovely Saviour. If we are followers of the lovely Jesus, our pattern, we are safe. He denied Himself. He was a man of sorrow and acquainted with grief. If we are made partakers with Him of His glory we must be partakers with Him of His sufferings. And after Jesus has done so much for us, will anyone be undecided whether to deny himself of the filthy weed for His sake?
(1LtMs, Lt 5, 1851, 3)
We must be perfect Christians, deny ourselves all the way along, tread the narrow, thorny pathway that our Jesus trod, and then if we are final overcomers, Heaven, sweet Heaven, will be cheap enough.
(1LtMs, Lt 5, 1851, 4)
Those who have been in the habit of using tobacco will have a struggle to leave it off, but they must not be discouraged. If they cannot overcome by praying to God themselves, let them be as humble as Brother Rhodes was. When he was leaving off using tobacco he called for the brethren to pray for him and we did. He was cured and has desired none since. Go to God dear brother, wrestle with Him and you can overcome, pray in faith, nothing doubting. Jesus will be touched with the brother’s infirmities.
(1LtMs, Lt 5, 1851, 5)
We are all as well as usual here. Be of good courage, Brother Barnes. “Be humble, be little, be meek, and be low, for Jesus our Saviour was abundantly so.” Much love to Brother and Sister Flanders. I hope they will be overcomers and push the battle to the gate. Love to your wife, and all that love God.
(1LtMs, Lt 5, 1851, 6)
James is very busy writing for the paper. Night before last the papers came off about eight o’clock at night. We sat up and wrapped and folded them, all about three bushels, so as to get them in the office the next morn. We did not retire to rest until past one o’clock A.M. I must close.
(1LtMs, Lt 5, 1851, 7)
In love.
(1LtMs, Lt 5, 1851, 8)
Lt 6, 1851
Loveland, Brother and Sister Paris, Maine April 1, 1851 Portions of this letter are published in 3SM 63; 6MR 252. See also Annotations. Dear Bro. and Sister Loveland:
We have just returned from a visit to Topsham and Gorham. On our return we found a number of letters and among them was one from you. Many things in your letter I do not understand. You speak of your telling me concerning Brother Hollis. I cannot remember that you told me anything about [it]. I know that if you told me anything it affected me not or I could now remember it. But dear sister, what if you had said ever so much. Would that affect the visions that God gives me? If so, then the visions are nothing.
(1LtMs, Lt 6, 1851, 1)
God has shown me the true state of Brother Hollis. I know from the vision that his influence has been bad and against us. How could Brother Hollis say that he had not said anything about it anywhere else when he told Brother Bates, Brother Rhodes and Andrews, and they did not know but [what] we were wrong from what he said, and came to the conference with that feeling? Since I have had the vision, I have seen Brother Bates and he told us that he reproved Brother Hollis for his feelings towards James. He told Brother Bates the same that he told Brother Heath. This looks dark in Brother Hollis. How could he say he came on purpose to the Conference to confess, when Brother Rhodes asked him on his way to Waterbury if he did not think that he had wrong feelings toward James? He said, No, that he could meet him, and not feel condemned or as though he had done wrong. I cannot repeat it word for word, but that was the amount of it, and more that I cannot repeat, that makes things look very crooked in him.
(1LtMs, Lt 6, 1851, 2)
Brother Rhodes was astonished when he read the same in a letter from Brother Barrows, and you write the same that he went on purpose to confess. Brother Rhodes says it is the darkest thing he has seen in Brother Hollis. Poor soul, he is entirely deceived by the devil.
(1LtMs, Lt 6, 1851, 3)
Our spirits were completely crushed after the conference. James was about to return home in that state of things. I was taken very sick. The burden seemed as though it would crush me. God in answer to prayer, healed me and showed me Brother Hollis was wrong and also showed me just what he had been about and that James must stop a while longer in Vermont.
(1LtMs, Lt 6, 1851, 4)
What you or any one else has said is nothing at all. God has taken the matter in hand and Brother Hollis knows not what manner of spirit he is of. God has shown Brother Hollis’ case in vision and unless he soon becomes as a little child and breaks in pieces before God, he will be left to himself.
(1LtMs, Lt 6, 1851, 5)
What you have said, Sister Loveland, influenced me not at all. My opinion has nothing to do with what God has shown me in vision. But enough of this.
(1LtMs, Lt 6, 1851, 6)
We have received letters from some that we have never before heard from. There is a great call for publications. The work of the Lord is moving onward. We had consecrated ourselves anew to God, soul, bodies and spirit to do His work. Oh, that we may do it faithfully; time is very, very short. What we do must be done quickly and we must be very humble or God will not use us in His cause.
(1LtMs, Lt 6, 1851, 7)
I am satisfied that we have lived too far from God. We must take hold upon His strength and then He will bless us. We have lived beneath our privilege. There is a fulness in Jesus. I feel my own unworthiness and I know that I deserve not the mercy and blessings of God. I have had severe trials of late. Pray for us.
(1LtMs, Lt 6, 1851, 8)
Much love to your husband, yourself and children and all who love God in deed and in truth.
(1LtMs, Lt 6, 1851, 9)
In haste.
(1LtMs, Lt 6, 1851, 10)
Lt 7, 1851
Hastings, Brother and Sister Ballston Spa, Saratoga County, New York July 27, 1851 Portions of this letter are published in 6MR 253; 8MR 339-340. See also Annotations. Dear Brother Hastings and Sister Harriet:
We received a letter a few days ago from you which you sent to Paris and they sent it here. You speak of Sister Gorham and want advice. We cannot see how there can be any wrong in her boarding that man providing that she will not have to work so hard and will not have to cook for him on the Sabbath. I have conversed with James about it and with some others. They see it just as I do. We do not think that God will condemn Sister Gorham in the least.
(1LtMs, Lt 7, 1851, 1)
We should love to see you all but do not expect to have the privilege. Here we are in the state of New York. We make our home at Brother Thompson’s (at whose table we are now writing). He and his wife are whole-hearted in the truth. They have four daughters with them in the faith. Their ages are 24, 22, 20, and 12. They are good-hearted girls and are trying to serve God. Their voices were never heard in prayer until after the Milton conference. We had a powerful season of prayer and the burden of their cases was rolled upon me. I plead the promises of God for them, and could not give it up, and finally their voices were raised in prayer to God. It was a sweet season. God has commenced to work for this family and our prayer is that it may be carried on to His own glory.
(1LtMs, Lt 7, 1851, 2)
Brother Thompson used to be a Christian minister. He preached twenty years before he embraced the second advent doctrine. He is quite powerful when the Spirit of God rests upon him. James is busily engaged writing for the paper.
(1LtMs, Lt 7, 1851, 3)
We get our publishing done about nine miles from here, to Saratoga Springs. We have been trying to get a house at the Springs but so many are flocking there from quarters of the world to drink the Spring water that rent is very high, and after we should pay a great amount of rent, we should have to take up with just what we could get. As soon as cold weather comes the fat and lazy will go from the Springs and we can get cheaper and better rent.
(1LtMs, Lt 7, 1851, 4)
There is quite a company in this vicinity who are out in all the truth; and then there are others who are not fully established. T. M. Preble has been around here and has injured some but our prayer to God is that He would palsy the influence that he has had, and that He would let the clear light upon His truth shine out, so as to establish the wavering.
(1LtMs, Lt 7, 1851, 5)
My health had been quite poor for a few days but I am now better. I have been writing out the visions that God has of late given me that will benefit His children and we shall have all the visions published in a pamphlet in a few weeks. Were it not for this, I would write the visions to you, had I time. I suppose you have got the last paper by this time. The next paper will contain many good letters I trust.
(1LtMs, Lt 7, 1851, 6)
James enjoys quite good health for him. Our friends from Maine have not yet arrived. We expect them every day. We need their help. We should love to see you all very much. Will you not write to us, and tell us all how you get along? We feel interested for you. We have not forgotten you although we have been silent so long. May the Lord bless and strengthen you. We love you and will never cease to pray for you. Remember me to Sister Gorham. Tell her not to be bound and oppressed by the enemy but keep up good courage. Our warfare is almost over.
(1LtMs, Lt 7, 1851, 7)
Much love to all your children. Tell them to be watchful and press their way to the kingdom. They must be sufferers with Jesus if they would be partakers with Him of His glory. Gaze upon the lovely Jesus until you reflect His lovely image. Pray for us, all of you that love God, and do not neglect to write to us. James sends love to you both and all the children and Sister Gorham.
(1LtMs, Lt 7, 1851, 8)
In love and great haste.
(1LtMs, Lt 7, 1851, 9)
Lt 8, 1851
Howland, Brother and Sister Waterbury, Vermont November 12, 1851 Portions of this letter are published in 3MR 242-245, 401-403; 5MR 239-240; 6MR 118, 253; 8MR 225-227; 1Bio 219-222. See also Annotations. Dear Brother and Sister Howland:
Here we are at Brother [E. P.] Butler’s. O how changed everything is here. God has wrought for us mightily; praise His holy name. At Washington the Lord took the rule of the meeting Himself. Stephen Smith and Brother Butler were present. There were about 75 present, all in the faith. Brother Stephen Smith was filled with a wrong spirit. He and J. Hart had filled the minds of many with prejudice against us. False reports had been circulated, and the band had been sinking and had lost the power of the third angel’s message. They were sickly, but knew not the cause. The reason was that there was an accursed thing in the camp, and by the assistance of God we were trying to get it out of the camp.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 1)
Brother Butler was dark. The time had passed and left those who believed in it very low and dark, and the influence of those who believed the time has been very distracting. Brother Holt talked on the gifts of the Spirit. S. Smith did not confess his wrongs at all; such a self-confident person, who felt so perfectly whole, we have seldom seen. God wrought for us; there was a mighty breaking down before God.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 2)
You remember I was not very well when we parted. I continued to grow feeble and all day Sabbath was very weak, not able to sit up; in the eve I fainted quite away. The brethren prayed over me and I was healed and taken off in vision. I had a deep plunge in the glory, and the state of things in Washington was revealed to me, which I declared plainly to them. The vision had a powerful effect. All acknowledged their faith in the visions except Brother Butler and S. Smith.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 3)
We all felt it duty to act, and by a unanimous vote of the brethren, S. Smith was disfellowshipped by the church until he should forever lay down his erroneous views. His wife then broke down and said she knew that her husband was not right. The work of God went right on in the meeting. Sunday eve, after we had disfellowshipped Brother Smith (in the afternoon), we had a glorious season. Many confessed that they had been prejudiced against us by different individuals such as S. Smith and J. Hart, but they praised God that they had seen us and were convinced that the visions were of God. The brethren and sisters generally arose and expressed their opinions and feelings; it was a good time.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 4)
Monday forenoon we held another meeting and it was the best meeting of the whole; sweet union and love prevailed in the meeting. We then sang the farewell hymn and with sad yet joyful hearts parted—sad that we must part with those we love so well and had taken such sweet counsel with; but joyful that our hearts had been strengthened and comforted together, that the clear light of truth had shone upon us, and that we were soon to meet to part no more, where no discord or disunion reigns.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 5)
Just as the meeting closed, Sister Meade, who had been afflicted with a slow fever, requested us to pray for her. We went into a room by ourselves, Brethren Holt, Wheeler, Stowell, James and self. After I had anointed her with oil we prayed over her and she was healed every whit and fell prostrate by the power of God. That night we got into a rowboat and went on to the pond about one mile to Brother Meade’s. His sister was there with a very sick child. We anointed it with oil and prayed over it, and God heard our prayers. Then the two Brother Meades rowed us back again in the night, and the next day we went to Claremont and took the cars for Royalton.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 6)
Tuesday, the same eve, the conference commenced. Brother Butler was at that meeting, also Brother Josiah Hart who was so strong on the time, and after it passed by, got a substitute, “the age to come,” and was carrying that about. Such confusion and distraction has followed the time, and fighting against the visions! They had also lost the power of the third angel’s message and some of them were in complete darkness. Brother Hart was stiff and unyielding enough. I got up and told him what God had shown me concerning him. Brother Butler began to break away and come into the clear light. Thursday we seemed to have gone about as far as we could, and to have done all we could, yet there was much more to be done in order for things to be set just right.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 7)
In the morn we all seemed to have an agonizing cry for God to work like Himself, a wonder-working God. Our prayers were answered. The power of God came down; it was a good season; angels were hovering over us. I was taken off in vision and saw just the state of things there, and just the state that Brother Baker was in, and Brethren Hart and Butler. I got up and told the vision. It had quite a powerful effect. Brother Hart began to give way a little and break down, but still he did not confess much. Brother Butler came almost out there at Bethel.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 8)
I had some straight messages to bear to different individuals, which had their effect. When we parted, we parted in love, and union prevailed among nearly all.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 9)
Thursday afternoon we left Royalton and took the cars for Waterbury. We changed cars at Northfield and as we stepped from the cars, met Brother Baker; he came with us to Waterbury. Found Brethren Loveland and Lindsay waiting for us at the depot. We went about 2 miles to Brother Butler’s, stopped there a few hours for refreshment, and went eight miles in the eve toward Johnson and stopped with Sister Benson that night, and the next day went on to Johnson, the place appointed for the conference. Some had already arrived to attend the meeting.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 10)
I did not expect Brother and Sister Butler that night, for we parted with Brother Butler the day before about noon and he had to drive 50 or 60 miles to reach home and then prepare to come 25 miles farther to Johnson. But he had got so waked up he could not stop on the way, but drove until one o’clock the next morn before he got home. He was anxious to get his wife to Johnson. She was not right; had been a strong believer in the time and had felt very wrong toward James and Brother Holt because they struck against the time. But about three o’clock, two wagon loads came from Brother Butler’s; Brethren Hart and Baker in one wagon and Brother Butler, his wife and sister in the other wagon.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 11)
The meeting that eve was deeply interesting. There were about 73 present. Brother Baker spoke, and spoke quite well, about the time and his disappointment; yet he did not view things in their true light. He was much discouraged and sunken. After he sat down a man by the name of Walker arose, who had very lately embraced the truth and thought and acted as though he knew it all. He said he expected the brethren were expecting a confession from him because he was so strenuous upon the time, but said he had nothing to confess and he did not think Brother Baker had. He was not sure but something did take place, that Jesus did leave the Most Holy the time they said He would. He was happy, these were the happiest days of his life. He went on in this strain, with such a wild spirit, that all were disgusted with him. The Spirit of God came upon James, and he arose and rebuked him in the name of the Lord. His mouth was closed in a moment; he could not say anything more, but sat down and did not say anything through the meeting. He was rebuked by God. This was a great help to the meeting and a great help to Brother Baker.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 12)
I got up and told them what God had shown me about some trying to get a substitute after the time passed, some would get Jesus upon the great white cloud, others would be looking to old Jerusalem, or as they called it, the age-to-come. I asked Brother Walker where he would be or what would be his state if Jesus had now left the Most Holy and His work for the saints was all done and he in the state he then was? I talked plainly. The Lord helped me. I showed them how the messengers that had been toiling in the scattering time had labored to get the truth before them, how much they had suffered, and now when God’s cause was prospering, they embrace the third angel’s message and enter into the labors of the chosen messengers of God and lift up their heel against them. But I am making my story too long.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 13)
Sabbath day the brethren lectured. James talked twice from the Word, Brother Holt once. It was a very interesting time. Truth never looked so plain and clear. One hundred were present. It was a precious time, praise the Lord.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 14)
Sunday Brother Holt lectured in the forenoon and James in the afternoon. In the morning meeting before Brother Holt commenced to lecture, Sister [E. P.] Butler, who came to the meeting and was obliged to keep her bed nearly all the while, confessed in the meeting that she had been wrong. Then Brother Butler talked very well; there was a confession made all around with weeping.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 15)
Then I got up and told my vision about Brethren Baker and Hart and others. I never had it in a more clear manner. I told Brother Baker [that] his going to the churches to proclaim the third angel’s message was all wrong, that he had to tame down that message or he could not have got into the churches, and that he had been taking the children’s bread and giving it to dogs. I told him just how his case was shown to me, and also told them all that the messengers of God should be perfectly united in their views of Bible truth and should consult with each other and should not advance any new view until they first went to the messengers and examined those views with the Bible, and if they were correct let all the messengers spread them, and if they were error lay them to one side. Then the gospel seed would be sown in union and raised in strength; and all the messengers, East and West, North and South, would be telling the same story.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 16)
After I got through talking it was time for the lecture to commence so none made any remarks. In the afternoon after James talked, Brother Baker arose; none knew what he was about to say. He told them that every word of the vision related in the forenoon concerning him, was truth, just exactly as it was. (I saw in vision that Brother Baker had not had any bitter feelings towards us like some others.) He referred to this in particular, he knew it to be just so. “Well now,” says he, “you will say, What is Brother Baker going to do with the visions? I will tell you. It is high time for me to decide there is no half way work about this business; the visions are all of God or there are none of them of God. Well, say you, what is Brother Baker going to do? Believe the visions. I see that they are inseparably connected with the third angel’s message and if I give up the visions I must give up the third angel’s message; and if I give up the third angel’s message I give up that we have had the first and second; and if I give up that we have had the first, second and third angels’ messages, I give up the Word of God, my Christian experience, and am an infidel at once.”
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 17)
I never witnessed such a melting, weeping time before. Bro. Butler had taken his stand the day before and told the brethren and sisters in public where to find him, on the side of the visions. “I believe them to be of God, am a full believer in the visions, so you may know where to find me.” Others expressed their belief, and hearty confessions were made by Brother Hart and others. Never did I witness such a powerful time.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 18)
Monday morn we had another meeting; the power of God rested upon us. I was taken off in vision and saw many things. I saw that Brother Baker must not sink down, that God had a work for him to do, not to feed the dogs but the starving sheep, feed the sheep, feed the sheep, said my accompanying angel. It was a melting, weeping time when I related the vision. Brother Baker was comforted and made strong.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 19)
We parted with the brethren and sisters while sweet love and union prevailed among all. Sister Butler, who came to the meeting so sick, went home quite well and much strengthened. Six wagon loads of us left Johnson and came to Sister Benson’s twenty miles, took some refreshment and then went on to Brother Butler’s. Brethren Baker and Hart were with us.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 20)
Brother Baker had not slept any for two or three nights, troubled with disease of the heart. He said he must go home and be sick some days but we got a spirit of prayer for him and the Lord heard us pray. Brother Baker was healed and he glorified God with a loud voice; he had a baptism of the Holy Ghost. We parted with him and Brother Hart rejoicing, triumphant in God.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 21)
One thing I have not mentioned. Brother Baker has come into the salutation and washing the saints’ feet which he never believed in before.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 22)
We stopped (Brethren Holt, Wheeler, James and self) a few days and wrote. Wednesday Brethren Holt and Wheeler went to Vergennes, Vt. to inform them that we should be there Sabbath and Sunday. Brother Butler carried us to Vergennes Thursday, 44 miles. Sabbath day it was very stormy but we went three miles to Brother Everts; there were but few [who] could attend that meeting on account of the storm. Brother Everts is a blessed brother, but has been in the “age to come” all over and he said he could not give it up. When we were there he was in a very dark place.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 23)
Henry Allen lived about one mile from Brother Everts. He held such a strong mixture of views that if followed out would lead to spiritualism [of] the worst kind, such as spiritual wifery.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 24)
Sabbath eve I had a great burden such as I have borne before. I saw that Brother Everts must give up his “age to come,” that he had lost the power of the third angel’s message, and I saw that the accursed thing must be put out of the camp or Israel would be sickly. That accursed thing was such views as I have mentioned that Henry Allen held. He was not at the meeting at Brother Everts, being sick.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 25)
After I had the vision and told it, Brother Everts began to confess and break down before God. He gave up his “age to come” and felt the necessity of keeping the minds of all on the third angel’s message. I had as solemn a view at that time as I ever had in my life.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 26)
The next day we went to Henry Allen’s and God gave me a cutting message for him and I dared not daub with untempered mortar. Never did I have such a cutting message for any one before. He did not break down. We withdrew all fellowship from him until he should give up his spiritual union views and get right. We left the brethren and sisters there in a much better state than we found them. I must close.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 27)
Edson is well and smart. Clarissa is well. I have not seen Sarah yet. She is seven miles from here visiting the brethren and sisters. Stephen has just gone to see her. James is well and Aunt Rachel; I also. Anna Smith is with us. She is just the help we need. She takes right hold with James and helps him much. We can leave her now to get off the papers and can go out more among the flock. Henry, Edson says thank you for his Bible and box of candy. He is much pleased with them. James, Clarissa, Annie, Aunt Rachel and self send love to you all, especially my little Henry. Hope he will be good. In love,
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 28)
E. G. White
I would here say our healths failed a number of times on our journey. It seemed as though we could not go through the meeting. But we would go away alone with a few brethren and sisters and pray together, and God heard and answered and when we returned home we were better than when we left home. E. W.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 29)
Eliza Willard has come out strong in all the truth. Deborah Dunham has also come into the truth. Her sister has been so troubled, and Brother Day’s girl, that they have broken down before God, given their hearts to Him and have been baptized. The work of God is going on, praise His name, we will rejoice in Him. E. G. W.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 30)
Give our love to all of the church. You see I have written you a long letter. You must do the same to me. After you read this please to copy it off for Mother in plain hand writing. It will save my writing another letter. Do write it to her as soon as you can, and answer this after you copy it off for her. I want to hear from you very much. Do write. Tell Henry to be very good and love the Lord. In great haste and much love.
(1LtMs, Lt 8, 1851, 31)
Lt 9, 1851
Dodge, Brother and Sister Saratoga Springs, New York December 21, 1851 Portions of this letter are published in RC 350; 2MR 248; 6MR 253; 8MR 228. See also Annotations. Dear Brother and Sister Dodge:
I have a few moments leisure and will spend them in writing to you. My health has been quite poor for a short time back, but am much better today. At times James and self feel almost worn out. It is seldom we retire before eleven or twelve o’clock at night; we have no idle moments. Were it not for the strength we daily receive from God, we should sink.
(1LtMs, Lt 9, 1851, 1)
Praise the Lord, that we have a compassionate, tender High Priest that can be touched with the feelings of our infirmities. We do not expect rest here, No, no. The way to Heaven is a cross-bearing way; the road is straight and narrow, but we will go forward with cheerfulness knowing that the King of glory once trod this way before us. We will not complain of the roughness of the way, but will be meek followers of Jesus, treading in His footsteps. He was a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief. He for our sakes became poor that we through His poverty might be made rich. We will rejoice in tribulation and keep in mind the recompense of reward, the far more the exceeding and eternal weight of glory.
(1LtMs, Lt 9, 1851, 2)
We will not have a murmuring thought because we have trials. God’s dear children always had them, and every trial well endured here will only make us rich in glory. I crave the suffering part. I would not go to Heaven without suffering if I could, and see Jesus who suffered so much for us to purchase for us so rich an inheritance; and to see the martyrs who laid down their lives for the truth, and the sake of Jesus. No, no. Let me be perfected through sufferings. I long to be a partaker with Christ of His sufferings, for if I am, I know I shall be partaker with Him of His glory.
(1LtMs, Lt 9, 1851, 3)
Jesus is our pattern. Let us study to have our lives as near like Christ’s as possible. My soul cries out after the living God. My very being longs after Him. O, for to reflect His lovely image perfectly! O for to be wholly consecrated to Him! O how hard it is for dear self to die. We can rejoice in a whole Saviour; one that saves us from all sin. We can be shut in with God where we can daily say, “I live yet not I, for Jesus Christ liveth in me to will and do of His own good pleasure.” [Galatians 2:20; Philippians 2:13.] Glory be to God. I know that my life is hid with Christ in God.
(1LtMs, Lt 9, 1851, 4)
The curtain has been lifted, I have seen the rich reward laid up for the saints. I have had a taste of the joys of the world to come, and it has spoiled this world for me. My affections, my interests, hopes, my all is in Heaven. I long to see the King in His beauty, Him whom my soul loveth. Heaven, sweet Heaven. “I long to be there; and the thought that it is near, makes me almost impatient for Christ to appear.” Praise the Lord for a good hope through Jesus Christ of immortality and eternal life.
(1LtMs, Lt 9, 1851, 5)
Let us have faith, living faith in God, and love one another as God has loved us. We are very apt to see faults in others, and are not so quick to discover our own faults. If it were the daily study of each of us to show ourselves approved unto God, and should [we] seek earnestly to glorify God, and not have our own will and not please ourselves, I know we should be strong and flourish in the vine. The refreshing is coming from the presence of the Lord. Let us set our hearts in order that the truth of God may live in us; that it may purify us, ready to receive the latter rain.
(1LtMs, Lt 9, 1851, 6)
The voice of the angel seems to ring in my ears tonight so loud and clear, Get ready, get ready, get ready, lest ye be weighed in the balance and found wanting.
(1LtMs, Lt 9, 1851, 7)
Christ will have a church to present to His Father without spot or wrinkle or any such thing, and as He leads us through the pearly gates of the golden city, He will look upon the purchase of His blood, His redeemed children and see the travail of His soul and be satisfied. I long to see the lovely Jesus whose countenance lights up the glorious city; Him whom angels adore, and as they bow, cast their glittering crowns before Him, and then touch their golden harps and fill Heaven with their rich music, of songs to the Lamb.
(1LtMs, Lt 9, 1851, 8)
The language of my soul is, “Though dark are the waters, and rough is the wave, if Jesus permits the wild surges, I’ll brave. For that heavenly music hath ravished me so, I’ll join in the chorus, I’ll go, let me go.” My soul is on wing for glory.
(1LtMs, Lt 9, 1851, 9)
Dear Brother and Sister, I have not forgotten the seasons we had together at Milton Conference. May the Lord strengthen and bring you through every trial that you may come off victorious. We are to overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony. Let us walk carefully before the Lord and press to the mark of the prize.
(1LtMs, Lt 9, 1851, 10)
Next Tuesday or Wednesday we start on our way for the Camden Conference. If Jesus only comes up to the feast (and I believe He will) we shall have a glorious meeting. I know if we are as humble as we ought to be, and realize from whence our strength cometh, and have faith, living faith, God will work mightily for us, and His stately steppings will be seen among us.
(1LtMs, Lt 9, 1851, 11)
James is very busy correcting proof sheet. Sister Annie Smith is assisting him, and that gives me a little time to write. I have written this evening after the Sabbath by candle light, with aching eyes, so you must excuse poor writing. Be of good courage. Do not let anything sink you down and discourage you. Remember we are almost home. Much love to all the brethren and sisters in Michigan, especially those that I have seen and am acquainted with. Tell them to be of good cheer. “To be little, be humble, be meek, and be low; for Jesus our Saviour was abundantly so.” Oh, let us be meek followers of the Lamb.
(1LtMs, Lt 9, 1851, 12)
Dear Brother and Sister, do write us; we should love to hear from you and the brethren and sisters in Jackson. James and self send love to you and all that love Jesus.
(1LtMs, Lt 9, 1851, 13)
In haste and love.
(1LtMs, Lt 9, 1851, 14)
Lt 10, 1851
Rhodes, Brother Paris, Maine May 18-19, 1851 Previously unpublished. See also Annotations. Dear Brother Rhodes,
I have written this vision to you so if you see any one in danger through any wrong that God has shown me in others or generally, that you may read them what I have seen. John will go from here in a few days.
(1LtMs, Lt 10, 1851, 1)
We have good victory in our prayer seasons. God often meets with us, and blesses us, and we feel to triumph in the God of our salvation. Satan has been making mighty efforts to overthrow us, but God has been holding us up, praise His dear name. We are determined to hold the victory, and come off conquerors.
(1LtMs, Lt 10, 1851, 2)
One week ago last Sabbath we went up to Bro. Davises,—Brother John, James, and self. They were glad to see us, and they are strong in all the present truth. He feels very thankful that God has brought him out; he says that he has enjoyed perfect love since the conference at Brother Stevens when you were here. She is good. May the Lord uphold them.
(1LtMs, Lt 10, 1851, 3)
I must close, for I have many letters to write today. Much love to all who love God.
(1LtMs, Lt 10, 1851, 4)
In much love, in haste.
(1LtMs, Lt 10, 1851, 5)
E. G. White Monday morning
We were called up last night by Sister Andrews. Bro. A. was very, very sick. He was in excruciating pain all through his body, so that he groaned, wrung, and twisted. We anointed him with oil, when he had confessed of his own accord that he had encouraged the company of the wicked too much, and mingled with them too much. She confessed the same. We had quite a powerful time, the pain was removed from Bro. A. and he praised God aloud.
(1LtMs, Lt 10, 1851, 6)