The cases of orphan children have been shown me, their dangers and their errors. Among them I was shown the case of the Curtis children. They had serious defects in their organization that made it a discouraging business for anyone who should have a care for them. The young girls are impulsive and act without due consideration and forethought. They move just as they happen to feel. They do not love discipline or order. They do not lay their plans in the morning, take care and relieve others of responsibilities. They do what they are told, if it pleases them so to do. And if they are not pleased, if they are reproved for carelessness and neglect, they think that they are not treated kindly, and cherish thoughts that they are misused, and that those who have the responsibility of their case are exacting, overbearing, and hard upon them. This makes it a thankless task for those who have the care of them. They have to be put to the inconvenience of being constantly annoyed with their lack of care, their thoughtless inattention to duty, their reckless ways. And if their guardians speak to them as they should to correct their faults, there are unhappy feelings at once.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1872, 1)
These children do not consider how much trouble and anxiety they make others, but they feel grieved that they are reproved, instead of feeling grieved over their errors and wrongs. And what makes the case still worse, these sisters, when they get together, talk over the matters that have transpired where they have thought that they were not dealt tenderly with. They give mutual expression of their feelings, and strengthen each other to feel dissatisfied with their condition, and they really think that they are having a hard time.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1872, 2)
It is unfortunate that these children have the stamp of character which they now bear. The mother of these children was a good woman, but lacked essential qualifications necessary for a wife and mother. She did not love domestic duties. The father has not foresight and calculation. He moves as he feels, acts from impulse, is weak in moral power, and deficient in discernment. He picks at straws, stumbles over little things, sees much to find fault with that he should not notice. He ever sees something to be tried with. He does not know how to use means judiciously. Their children have the stamp of character of their parents, which is their misfortune. Had the father been a man of stability of character, having principle underlying the spring of action, he would not have pursued the course he has in shifting the responsibility of his family upon others. Had he felt the manly, paternal feelings which should dwell in the bosom of every father, he would not, for any consideration, have suffered his children to be separated from him and from one another. The father in a certain sense divorces his children, the fruit of his own body, and marries a family who have no claims upon him.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1872, 3)
These children need to be transformed. They need to cultivate a love of submission and obedience. They may overcome almost wholly the natural defects in their organization by careful culture of the faculties where they are deficient. One of the greatest deficiencies in their character is their seeming inability to take care. They have not cultivated principle. They feel under no moral obligation to be true and faithful from a religious standpoint.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1872, 4)
It is a sad thing that these children bear the stamp of character that they do. They need to be transformed. They should with resolution take hold of the work, and cultivate a love of submission and obedience. They can overcome the defects in their organization if they make earnest and persevering efforts. One great lack is inability to take care unless someone is by to enumerate every item to be done at the very time you want them done. If they reasoned, they might know that these things must be done every day; yet every day you must repeat the same things, and those with whom they live must bear these things on their minds because they have these girls with them who neglect to think themselves, but leave others to do their thinking for them.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1872, 5)
Although these children are more or less religiously inclined, yet they are not at all conscientious. Emma and May, especially, are very deficient. They feel under no moral obligation to be true and faithful because it is a duty they owe to their guardians, and to God. They are eyeservants. They have professed to be followers of Christ, but they are not transformed by the renewing of the mind; they are not sanctified through the truth. They have a great sense of moving as they please, with a persistent way of their own, and when interfered with they are inclined to feel that they are misused. There is a difference. Some of the children are of a sullen disposition, secretive, and they do not frankly express their feelings. But if their guardians require them to do that which is not agreeable, they are offended in spirit and cherish hateful feelings which they will not hesitate to talk to others, and give impressions that are incorrect, and create sympathy which they do not deserve.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1872, 6)
These dear children will have to work diligently if they form characters that God can accept. Time is short, and they have no time to devote to following inclination rather than duty. It is the most difficult task to discipline these children to habits of order. They are reckless and careless. If they had their own way they would lie in bed in the morning and sit up, if they were inclined so to do, till very late at night, not because they were compelled to, but from habit and desire. These irregular habits unfit them to think and to do their duty with care and faithfulness during the day.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1872, 7)
These sisters talk together and sympathize with one another. Yet these children cannot get along with one another in living together. They are too much alike to be patient and forbearing with each other. They are better separated. But there is a mutual agreement in questioning and finding fault with those who have the care and burdens, because of a peculiar temperament of these children. If these sisters would have wisdom to call the attention of each other to their faults, to correct and reform where they need to improve, then they would be helping in the right direction. But it is a thankless task for those who have these children in their families, when they do not see their own errors and think they are abused if they are reproved and disciplined.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1872, 8)
These sisters appeal to their own sympathizers, look upon the dark side, and inwardly fret when they dare not give expression to their feelings. They have much to learn to put away their sullen tempers, weeping over their supposed hard fate, instead of trying earnestly to be faithful, to think, to take care, to be true, and to cherish habits of order and train their minds to redeem the defects in their character.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1872, 9)
These children must be willing to be corrected, and not despise reproof, or they will be useless. The same imperfections existing in the duties and transactions of their temporal life, will be carried into their religious experience, and they will be found wanting in their religious life. Now is the time for them to wash their robes and make them white in the blood of the Lamb. They may remove the defects in their character by washing in the blood of Christ. If these sisters would not inflame each other and help on the dissatisfaction existing, it would be much better for them all.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1872, 10)
Some of these children have made great improvement, but there is room left for greater improvement still. There is room for every one of these young girls to improve in care-taking and in thinking. If many moments that are spent in singing should be devoted to self-examination and prayer, they would make greater advancement in thinking of their duties that should be done so that others may not be brought into perplexity by finding things neglected, that they expect to find done, because they forget to do them.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1872, 11)
There is a time to sing, a time to talk, a time to weep, but to mix up all these exercises with important duties is not just the thing. When a throw-off-care singing is indulged in, and the mind is not taxed to have care and do the duties that should be done, it is like the schoolboy playing truant to get rid of the lessons at school.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1872, 12)
Of course, such workers as these are only burdens; they bring a heavier care than all they can do will be worth. When the thinking is done for the day, and when singing will not lead to reckless forgetfulness, it is no sin to sing.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1872, 13)
It is a disagreeable task for the head of the family in the household department to be obliged to see for herself what must be done and tell her help everything that needs to be done. They have eyes and capabilities and can see if they choose to see and can do if they choose to do. But the inclination to neglect and pass over things that ought every day to be done and is in their line of duty to perform, displeases God and heavenly angels. Can Jesus say to these girls, who neglect their duty and make burdens for others by their heedlessness, “Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things”? [Matthew 25:23.] Christ will not commend any for faithfulness unless they have earned this commendation by diligent use of their privileges and the faithful discharge of their duty. The sin of the slothful servant was not because of his great vileness and unsurpassed wickedness, but he was neglectful in doing the work he ought to have done. His sin was in not doing. He was a slothful servant and lost all because he did not do the things he might have done. He neglected to perform the everyday duties of life. Simple though these may be, they are of consequence in the sight of God. Oh, how many will lose heaven because they do not attach sufficient importance to the little duties of life.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1872, 14)
May, you have your mind occupied with reading or talking, constantly talking. If you disregard religious things, and have no interest for your own soul’s salvation, there is no virtue in our trying to help you to a home, and to do for you. I think now you had better go to the Institute and quit school for awhile and labor in the Institute and be disciplined there until you are reformed and you have a different spirit. I sent Loa from me, the reasons you know as well as I, because she did not improve and appreciate the blessings we bestowed on her. We shall do the same by you. You need to be converted, for as you are you will certainly be unfit for heaven.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1872, 15)
Ms 4, 1872
Diary, July to September 1872 NP July 14 to September 4, 1872 Portions of this manuscript are published in 3SM 263-264; 3MR 155-158; 7MR 231. Sunday, July 14, 1872 [Kansas,]
We rode in a wagon four miles to Centropolis [and spoke] in a stone schoolhouse. Had freedom and an attentive congregation. We returned to Mr. Clough’s. Took dinner and then rode in a wagon two miles to Oakgrove schoolhouse and spoke to a crowded house three quarters of an hour with freedom. The audience was intelligent and were attentive and courteous. We were obliged to leave immediately for Ottawa. Spoke in the Park to quite an audience for one hour with a degree of freedom. We tarried that night at Mrs. Horton’s. We were well entertained. Her husband and her son were absent.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1872, 1)
Monday, July 15, 1872 [Wamego, Kansas,]
We left Ottawa this morning. We waited at Lawrence one hour and a half. We walked out to find fruit to eat with our dinner. Were unsuccessful. As the cars were coming up to the depot at Wamego, I saw a lady that I thought must be Josie Chamberlain, and so it proved. She had accompanied her brother-in-law, Mr. Mitchell, for the purpose of having us stop off and tarry with them as long as we could. We consulted together and decided to remain. We rode three miles to Mr. Mitchell’s through a very beautiful country. We were heartily received and hospitably entertained. They have a very beautiful location, with a farm well improved and a large supply of fruit.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1872, 2)
Tuesday, July 16, 1872 [Wamego, Kansas,]
We labored to prepare matter for the Reformer. Did not complete it. We rode out to see the country. Mr. Mitchell sought to make our visit pleasant. He drove his horse up a steep mountain. On its top we could have a delightful view of the surrounding country. The prospect was very beautiful. Upon the top of the mountain is a large pyramid of stones, beneath which lies the body of the Indian chieftain. Mr. Mitchell then took us to Wahousa [?]. His mail comes to this place. We saw very nice country. The roads were as level as a floor. We received two letters at this place.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1872, 3)
Wednesday, July 17, 1872
We arose at half past three o’clock. We rode three miles to Wamego and stepped on board the train for our long route to Denver. We rested very much the first part of the day. In the afternoon we felt refreshed and prepared to view the country we were passing through. We saw no buffalo herds nigh, but about two hundred dead buffalo lying upon the plains. These had been killed by the hunters—some for their hides, others merely for their hind quarters, to dry to sell. We saw a dead antelope near the track. We saw several antelopes at some distance, also a large herd of buffalo. We saw many houses built underground, where families lived. Many of these men lived by hunting. The land seemed poor, and we traveled for fifteen or twenty miles without seeing a house. We saw herds of cattle numbering thousands, with several men on horseback herding the cattle. We saw many settlements of prairie dogs scudding about the track and off on the prairie.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1872, 4)
Thursday, July 18, 1872 [Denver, Colorado,]
Thursday morning we awoke in the sleeping cars and looked out of the car window upon snow-capped mountains. Such a scene I had never looked upon before—snow lying upon the top of the mountains, bordered with green. The train bore us to Denver. We stepped off the train about eight o’clock. It was a singular affair for us, to travel hundreds of miles over a barren desert and then find a populous city which could be called the Chicago of Colorado. We had considerable difficulty in finding Mr. Walling. My husband was quite sick; nearly fainted while searching for him. Willie went out to hunt up Mr. Walling. James lay down on the floor, completely exhausted. Lucinda returned from the Post Office with twenty-two letters, mostly from Battle Creek. We were so glad that we could hear from our friends. Willie returned with Mr. Walling, who received us heartily. He showed us some of the city. It seems to be built up after the eastern style. This city is the resort of fashionable society, tourists who come to view the wonderful mountains of Colorado. There is no fruit of any account raised in Colorado. The seasons are too short for fruit to ripen. Everything like fruit and vegetables is exceedingly high. We were cordially welcomed by our nieces. We felt at home. Our peace rested with our friends. We had taken nothing warm for nearly two days. We think this was the cause of James’ fainting.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1872, 5)
Friday, July 19, 1872 [Denver,]
We had a beautiful morning. We rested well during the night. The atmosphere seems so pure, it seems as though we must improve in health. Mr. Walling desired us to go to the mountains. He did not succeed in getting a proper conveyance to take us to the mountains. He finally decided to go into the mountains and get his own team and come for us. We enjoyed a walk out in the city. Several called at Mrs. Walling’s.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1872, 6)
Sabbath, July 20, 1872 [Denver,]
It is a beautiful morning. This is the Lord’s rest day and we desire to keep the Sabbath that God may accept our efforts and that our own souls may be refreshed. We walked out, seeking a retired place in a grove where we could pray and read, but we were not successful. We spent the day in conversing upon religious subjects, writing, and reading.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1872, 7)
Sunday, July 21, 1872 [Denver,]
Another beautiful day has come. We feel thankful for rest in sleep. We spend the day in writing.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1872, 8)
Tuesday, July 23, 1872 [Denver,]
We feel to praise God this morning for the mercy and goodness of God to us. We spent the greater portion of the day in writing. Visited Mr. Whitney’s sister’s husband’s sister’s daughter.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1872, 9)
Wednesday, July 24, 1872
We rose early and were disappointed in not seeing Mr. Walling. We were anxious to go to the mountains. About eight o’clock Mr. Walling came and informed us we were to take the cars for Golden City, fifteen miles from Denver. His team he had left at Denver [?]. We were to go up to the mountains by private conveyance. We hastened to the cars, which left at eleven o’clock. We got on board a freight train, for we should have to wait until seven at night if we waited for accommodation train. The road seemed lined with “snow upon the mountains.” This plant, which we cultivate for its beauty as well as the oddity of its foliage, grew wild in luxurious beauty—emblem of the snowy mountains. Ridges and splashes of snow lay upon the top of the mountains, which were clothed with verdure. The green and white mingled was correctly emblemed in the beautiful flower called “snow upon the mountains.”
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1872, 10)
Thursday, July 25, 1872 [Walling’s Mills (?), Colorado,]
I awoke with severe sick headache. Suffered much through the day. Tried to walk out but could not sit up after I returned. I lay down and tried to compose my aching head and throbbing nerves. I vomited very hard and obtained some relief. The friends manifested great anxiety for me which troubled me as much as my sickness.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1872, 11)
Friday, July 26, 1872 [Walling’s Mills (?), Colorado,]
I am still very sick. Awoke with throbbing nerves and aching head. I spent a day of pain, yet am not discouraged. In the evening walked out a little way. Was very weak and was obliged to return to the house.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1872, 12)
Sabbath, July 27, 1872 [Walling’s Mills (?), Colorado,]
We arose this beautiful morning with some sense of the goodness and mercy of God to us. This is our first Sabbath among the mountains. James, Sister Hall, and myself took a blanket and walked out to the shelter of the fragrant evergreens, rolled up a stone for seats, and I read a portion of my manuscript to my husband. In the afternoon our niece, Mary Clough, Willie, and myself walked out and sat beneath poplar trees. We read about sixty pages of Great Controversy, or Spiritual Gifts. Mary was deeply interested. We were happily disappointed in the earnest manner in which she listened. We see no prejudice with her. We hope she will yet see and receive the truth. She is a pure, simple-hearted, yet intellectual girl. We closed the Sabbath of the Lord with prayer. Mary united with us in prayer. Wrote letters upon religious subjects to Louise Walling and Elder Loughborough.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1872, 13)
Sunday, July 28, 1872 [Walling’s Mills (?), Colorado,]
We awoke to enjoy another beautiful morning. Mr. Walling is absent in Central. I spent a share of the day in writing. Walked out and sat under spruce trees. Read my manuscript to my husband and corrected it for printer. The men at work in Mr. Walling’s mills seem to have no interest in religious matters. I desire to speak to them of the Christian’s hope, but I am very hoarse, having taken a hard cold. My heart goes out after those who are ignorant of the Christian’s hope. Mary, James, Willie, and I walked one mile to see the gigantic rock towering up hundreds of feet. Willie climbed to the top of it. We with less strength and sprightliness were content to remain below. Returning home, Willie mounted a rock and spoke to us.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1872, 14)
Monday, July 29, 1872 [Walling’s Mills (?), Colorado,]
We arose feeling quite bright. We enjoy this mountain air very much. My husband and myself walked out in the grove and had a good and very precious season of prayer. We felt that the Lord was very near. I had some conversation with Mary. Mr. Walling returned from Central with letters and papers. We were thankful to hear from friends and children again. Spent considerable of the day in writing. In the evening we talked with Mr. Walling in reference to our anticipated trip over the mountains. We hardly know what to do. James, Lucinda, and I made our way up, up, up into a high mountain, where we could have a good view of the surrounding mountains. We knelt among the trees and prayed for heavenly guidance. The Lord met with us and we had the assurance He would answer our prayer. We prayed especially for afflicted Sister Abbey. My husband had the assurance that His blessing rested upon Brother and Sister Abbey, and that Sister Abbey would recover.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1872, 15)
Tuesday, July 30, 1872 [Walling’s Mills (?), Colorado,]
We have very cool evenings and mornings upon the mountains. This morning we designed to go to Central City, about twelve miles. We purposed to take dinner on the way by the roadside. As we were preparing to start, the horses were found missing. Yesterday eve two hundred Indians passed through. Five horses of Mr. Walling’s were missing; also his cow. It was thought the Indians might have stolen the horses. Mr. Walling threw off his coat, armed himself with two revolvers and bowie knife, and in company with one of his men started on horseback to find the horses. We were disappointed in not eating our dinner by the roadside. We enjoyed our simple meal, however, very well. About two o’clock Mr. Walling came back, having found his horses and cow. He had no occasion to use his firearms, for which we were thankful. We shall now go to Central in a short time.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1872, 16)
Wednesday, July 31, 1872 [Colorado,]
We met my niece and her husband. We had a very good short visit. About ten o’clock Mr. Walling came with his team to take us up the mountain to Nevada, nearly a thousand feet above the level of the sea. We went up, up, up steep mountains. We could look down hundreds of feet.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1872, 17)
Thursday, August 8, 1872 [Colorado,]
We had prayers in our tent then wrote until about eleven o’clock, and then rode down to Mr. Laskey’s to visit. We found Mr., Mrs. Laskey’s father, a Christian. It was like cold water to a thirsty soul to find one who had respect for the cross of Christ, with whom we could converse on religious subjects. We did some sewing on Mrs. Laskey’s machine. I made three little dresses to give away to Addie Fair’s children and one for May Walling. We had a distinct view of the snowy range of mountains. It was a grand sight. A company who were going over the snowy range to the Park came for milk. They were from Illinois. All of them looked feeble. Mary Clough came up on horse-back about as we were preparing to leave. We had a pleasant and, I trust, a profitable visit. We gave away some books. There seems to be great eagerness to get books in this rocky, mountainous country. We have provided Mr. Walling’s mill hands with books upon present truth. They are all reading with interest.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1872, 18)
Friday, August 9, 1872 [Walling’s Mills (?), Colorado,]
We find it rainy this morning—the first storm we have had in two weeks. We design to go to Central City today. We have come up to our tent to have a season of prayer.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1872, 19)
Friday, August 16, 1872 [Walling’s Mills (?), Colorado,]
Mr. Walling took us to Central. We went direct to Sister Bental’s. We found three sisters who had made preparations for the meeting. Sisters Shaw, Bental, and Stocker had obtained a hall and had a notice of the meetings in Central daily paper. Their husbands were not believers. There are several keeping the Sabbath, but they have not heard a discourse. Sister Dart’s labors and circulation of books convicted them and led them to the truth. They were overjoyed to see us. Our meeting was to them like cold water to a thirsty soul. We had a meeting in Good Templar’s Sabbath evening. Our numbers were small but the blessing of the Lord rested upon us. The little few who had never heard a discourse were greatly strengthened. I tried to speak to them words of cheer to strengthen their faith and hope. These three sisters are intelligent women and have not taken hold of the Sabbath without counting the cost.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1872, 20)
Sabbath, August 17, 1872 [Colorado,]
We spent the forenoon in writing. Attended meeting in afternoon and evening. My husband spoke in afternoon with freedom. I spoke in the evening. These meetings were cheering and strengthening to the little few in these mountains. After evening meeting we rode home about two miles up the mountains to Mr. Shaw’s, the husband of Sister Shaw. The streets were so narrow he was obliged to go about a quarter of a mile before he could turn around. We went up, up the mountain to the home of Sister Shaw.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1872, 21)
Sunday, August 18, 1872 [Colorado,]
It is a beautiful morning. We slept well during the night. We walked out to view the scenery around us. Before us were high mountains covered with verdure, shrubs, and scattering evergreens. Miners’ huts were built upon the high mountains, upon the sides of the mountains, and in the gulches. We rode down the mountain to Central. Mr. Shaw lives in Livingston. My husband spoke forenoon and afternoon to a small but interested audience. I visited my niece Addie in the forenoon. We took dinner with Mr. and Mrs. Fair. Between the afternoon and evening meetings we spent at Sister Bental’s. Mr. Bental was very kind. He gave me many specimens of ore. In the evening the hall was well filled.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1872, 22)
I had freedom in speaking to the people. I never addressed a more interested audience. My husband spoke about fifteen minutes upon the law. There are several who have been reading, and are in the valley of decision. We gave away considerable reading matter. Accompanied my niece Addie home. Tarried with them overnight.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1872, 23)
Monday, August 19, 1872 [Colorado,]
It is a beautiful morning. We took breakfast with our nephew and niece, Mr. and Mrs. Fair. Had a short season of prayer and then walked about one mile and a quarter to Sister Bental’s. She welcomed us heartily. We have been writing, preparing copy for Reformer. Wrote Edson about eight pages. Sister Stocker brought me specimens. We are having a refreshing shower which is very grateful. The dust is very annoying. Mr. Walling came for us. Took dinner with us at Sister Bental’s. In returning home the horses balked and we were obliged to walk miles.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1872, 24)
Tuesday, September 3, 1872 [Colorado,]
We left Walling’s Mills about noon, mounted on our ponies. Mr. Walling took his wagon along to carry the baggage. We rode ten miles the first day. We could not travel far in the afternoon, for a storm threatened us. We decided to halt at a deserted hovel. We went in and found two bedsteads, a table, a large fireplace. We were scarcely sheltered and saddles and baggage inside when it began to rain in torrents, soon followed by hail as large as bullets. The horses, nine in number, shivered and shrunk, but we could do no better with them. We prepared beds for us and had quite a comfortable night. We felt grateful that the treasures of heaven were stayed until we found a comfortable retreat. We were made as comfortable as possible by Mr. Walling, who treated us as parents. He was good and attentive. We shall never forget his devotion to us.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1872, 25)
Wednesday, September 4, 1872 [Colorado,]
We arose early. Took our breakfast and Mr. Walling and Willie were preparing our ponies. I felt that I could ride with better confidence than the first day. As my husband stopped, after riding a few miles, to arrange the pack, I rode on to overtake some of our company ahead. I soon noticed my horse began to shy, and saw that my pack had become loosened and was dangling around his heels. I slipped my foot from the stirrup and in a moment more would have been free. I arose in much pain, nervous and trembling. I took my seat in the saddle with less confidence than when I mounted my pony two days before.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1872, 26)
Ms 5, 1872
Diary, October to December 1872 NP October 2 - December 13, 1872 Portions of this manuscript are published in 2Bio 361-362, 367-368. Wednesday, October 2, 1872 [Santa Rosa, California,]
We came to the campground, eleven miles from Santa Rosa. Found about fifteen tents pitched.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 1)
Thursday, October 3, 1872
The people are coming in.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 2)
Friday, October 4, 1872
There are thirty-three tents upon the ground.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 3)
Tuesday, October 8, 1872
We left the campground for Santa Rosa.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 4)
Wednesday, October 9, 1872
We had interview with Brother Cornell, talking with him plainly.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 5)
Thursday, October 10, 1872
We left Santa Rosa for San Francisco. Went thirty miles upon the boat and the remaining fifteen miles in the cars. We arrived at San Francisco about noon. Elder Loughborough and Brother Cornell accompanied us. They were on their way to Woodland.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 6)
Friday, October 11, 1872 [San Francisco, California,]
Brethren Cornell and Loughborough took the cars this morn for Woodland. Brother Cornell attended meeting Thursday evening.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 7)
Sabbath, October 12, 1872 [San Francisco,]
We attended meeting at eleven a.m. and seven p.m. We both spoke in the forenoon and afternoon. We had good liberty and the people seemed much encouraged.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 8)
Sunday, October 13, 1872 [San Francisco,]
At eleven o’clock I opened the meeting by prayer and spoke from John first chapter. I had the best of attention. By the request of Brother Diggins we accompanied him home to dinner. The horse car took us near his door. We had a pleasant visit. They have a beautiful garden, laid out and arranged with great skill and taste. We conversed some with Mrs. Diggins. She makes no profession of being a follower of Christ, yet she is a kind, devoted wife, a most affectionate mother, and a truly obliging neighbor. Brother Diggins was gratified that we conversed freely with his wife. She has been much prejudiced by false reports. My husband spoke in a most clear manner in regard to the reasons of our faith. I followed, speaking of God in nature. The people listened with the greatest attention. Their prejudice is removed and we hope the truth will reach hearts.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 9)
Monday, October 14, 1872 [San Francisco,]
We visited Sister Moore, who lives with her daughter. Her daughter married the ex-governor of California. We were received very cordially by the daughter. We had a very interesting visit with Sister Moore. Before we left, Mr. Holden came home and we had an interesting interview with His Honor. We then called upon Sister Healey. She was not in, and we were disappointed in not seeing her. Sister Rowland had accompanied me in my visits. We returned to her house. I sent to the letter box twenty-four pages of note paper in two letters to Mr. Walling and my son, Edson.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 10)
Tuesday, October 15, 1872 [San Francisco,]
Tuesday we again called on Sister Healey and spent a portion of the day with her. We went into the city to trade. Purchased some things essential for wearing apparel. We returned to Sister Rowland’s. My lungs pained me considerably. I decided it was best to remain at home, but did not feel at rest and went to the meeting. We found quite a number present; some strangers. My husband spoke freely upon the immutability of the third angel’s message. I spoke upon the last verses of the next to the last and the first verses of the last chapter of Malachi. It seemed to meet the cases of several present. Brother Gardner had been in great trial. He bore testimony that he was glad he was at the meeting; the testimony of Brother and Sister White had been blessed to him. He spoke with feeling. All who gave their testimonies spoke with freedom. The meeting was an excellent one and we felt glad that we went.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 11)
Wednesday, October 16, 1872 [San Francisco,]
We spent the night at Sister Healey’s. After breakfast and prayers we returned to Sister Rowland’s to do some writing. I wrote ten pages of foolscap and mailed to Battle Creek. My husband and Sister Hall went into the city to look for a carriage that was for sale. I went with them in the afternoon. The carriage is nice but the price is too much—$400 [?]. The real value is in the carriage but we can do with a less expensive one.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 12)
Thursday, October 17, 1872 [San Francisco,]
Walked from Sister Rowland’s to Sister Healey’s for the purpose of obtaining a bath. Found she was not at home. We took our bath. Rested awhile, prepared our dinner. We purchased two bits worth of strawberries, about two quarts. They were relished well for our dinner. Sister Rowland and Sister Hall came about one o’clock; prepared their own dinner. My husband and myself took the street cars and went into town and traded some. We went to the prayer meeting in the evening at Brother Stipp’s. My husband gave them some instruction in regard to the care that all should exercise in presenting the truth—not to be uncourteous or crowd our sentiments upon people who have no wish to hear us. After we returned to Sister Rowland’s we prepared to leave early in the morning.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 13)
Friday, October 18, 1872
We awoke at four a.m. and soon dressed to prepare for our journey to Woodland. We were in anxiety in regard to my lungs. My husband and myself went before God and prayed earnestly for that health and strength which God alone can give. My lungs are much pressed, but we felt that God would help us and strengthen us to do the work so necessary to be done in this part of the vineyard. We rode twenty-two miles in a very nice boat and are now finishing the route in the cars. We were well received at Woodland. Took dinner at Brother Good’s. In the afternoon visited Sister High. She was sick. We have a room at Sister Hass’ [?]. My husband spoke in evening to quite a large audience. I followed. I felt urged by the Spirit of God to speak plainly in regard to the pride and idolatry among professed Christians. Attentive audience.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 14)
Saturday, October 19, 1872 [Woodland (?),]
My husband spoke in the forenoon upon the reasons of our faith. The congregation was rather small. I remained in my room writing to Brother Cornell. I wrote diligently the entire forenoon. I spoke in the afternoon to about sixty. I spoke upon the cross of Christ. “He that will come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me.” [Luke 9:23.] I spoke plainly and decidedly upon the necessity of deciding to be wholly for God and consecrated to the truth. There is feeling in the congregation. We had interview with Brother Cornell.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 15)
Sunday, October 20, 1872 [Woodland (?),]
I spoke in the forenoon at 11 o’clock from “Thou shalt love,” etc. I had great freedom. The people listened with interest. There were about four hundred people present. Elder Loughborough spoke in the afternoon, following up the interest in the forenoon. Brethren Kellogg, Loughborough, my husband, and myself had a faithful talk for the benefit of Brother Cornell. In the evening my husband spoke upon the Sabbath found in the New Testament. His remarks were forcible and we know made a deep impression upon the hearts of many. After he closed I spoke with clearness and freedom upon God in nature. The people listened with the deepest attention. I never saw meetings close more quietly than these large tent meetings. About eight hundred were out.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 16)
Monday, October 21, 1872 [Woodland,]
We took dinner at Sister Wood’s. Her husband is a blind musician. He is convicted on the Sabbath question, but the question arises in his heart, How shall I support myself and my family? He has not Abraham’s faith to move out without seeing the future opened before him. May God move upon him and [not] leave him in his unbelief is our prayer. After dinner we repaired to the tent and listened to the facts related by Brethren Kellogg and Loughborough in regard [to] Brother Cornell’s course and manner of labor since he has been on this coast, which confirms the testimony given for him months ago. We rode out five miles to Brother Grayson’s. We found an excellent farm of four hundred acres. He has a large vineyard and large wheat fields. Willie has been gathering grapes and figs and drying them. We have quite a quantity drying. Brother and Sister Grayson say Willie has stolen their hearts. Willie thinks much of this kind family.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 17)
Tuesday, October 22, 1872 [Woodland,]
We rested well the past night. We enjoyed our breakfast. Walked out with Willie to see his grapes. Willie has worked quite hard in this business since he has been here. We took dinner with Brother Pond. He is an attentive listener but is a deacon of the Congregationalist church. They exalt him and it is difficult for him to tear away. He takes the Health Reformer and Review and Herald. We were treated with great courtesy. Their dinner was excellent. When we left they cordially invited us to come again and be perfectly free. We wrote in the tent some time, then meditated upon the subject we were to speak upon. We had about four hundred and fifty out last evening. I spoke upon the health question. The people listened with attention and we pray that the plain truth spoken may do good. After meeting we rode out about two miles to Mr. Kelley’s, a wealthy farmer. We enjoyed a social fireside visit.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 18)
Wednesday, October 23, 1872 [Woodland,]
We rested well during the night. We were treated with utmost kindness. We were introduced to Mr. Briggs and wife. This family has been afflicted. Mr. Kelley has buried his wife very recently and he feels his loss deeply. May God pity the stricken flock. As we parted with them we were invited to come any time freely and we would be welcome.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 19)
Thursday, October 24, 1872 [Woodland,]
We are at Sister High’s. This is a good home, but limited room. We are still afflicted with severe cough, but we do not cease our labor. We spent most of the day in the tent writing. It is a very convenient place to be retired and uninterrupted. Spent the night at Sister High’s.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 20)
Friday, October 25, 1872 [Woodland,]
We rode to Sister High’s for Willie’s clothes. In the evening rode out to Brother Grayson’s. Tarried overnight.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 21)
Saturday, October 26, 1872 [Woodland,]
Rode in to the city early.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 22)
Sunday, October 27, 1872 [Woodland,]
Elder Loughborough spoke in the forenoon. I spoke in the afternoon, also in the evening. The Lord gave me strength for the occasion. The people seemed to feel the effects of the truth. Professor Martin spoke against the law of God. My husband and Brother Cornell attended.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 23)
In the afternoon we felt our need of help from God. Brethren Cornell, Loughborough, James and myself knelt under the tent and had a precious season of prayer for help and strength from God. We were comforted by His Spirit.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 24)
Monday, October 28, 1872 [Woodland,]
No meeting Monday night.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 25)
Tuesday, October 29, 1872 [Woodland,]
My husband reviewed Brother Martin. He had good liberty. The Lord was with him and the opposers of the law of God seemed to feel the force of the truth. Brother Martin interrupted once. There were several scoffers of the law of God who were Campbellites. They sat directly in front of the stand and made a scornful face every time the law of God was mentioned.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 26)
Wednesday, October 30, 1872 [Woodland,]
Sister High and myself called upon Sister Yerby (?) who has a young baby and has not been out to any of our meetings. She is a very pleasant woman, intelligent, and has a good understanding of the truth. Her husband was upon his farm four miles from Woodland. She desired us to come in the evening and spend the night with them. We consented to do so. We had a precious season of prayer and left her.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 27)
I spoke at night to an attentive audience. I felt deeply in earnest as I appealed to their consciences. We invited those to arise who wished to obey the truth. Quite a number arose. We prayed with them and for them. We hope our labor will not be in vain. We went home with Mr. Yerby. We tried to gain his confidence and link ourselves with the family. We fear for the family. Mr. Yerby is a decidedly worldly man. We had a season of prayer with the family and left them in the care of God, hoping for the best, yet trembling for their future course.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 28)
Thursday, October 31, 1872 [Woodland,]
In the morning we commenced visiting those who had manifested an interest and who had identified themselves with us, and those who had not yet decided. We called on Lucy Bush, a lady recently married to a teller of the bank. He is an Episcopalian. She has been a vain, worldly, proud girl, and under the influence of Professor Martin, teacher of the school, she nearly became an infidel. She attended the tent meetings and was among the first to signify her determination to obey the truth. She was under engagement of marriage and took the step understandingly, her husband fully acquainted with her faith and determination to obey the commandments of God. We had a very interesting interview. Prayed with her and then left to visit others.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 29)
We called on Mrs. Andrews, who is convinced of the truth and is keeping the Sabbath. She seems earnest to follow the light. We took dinner at Sister Wood’s. Her husband is blind. In the afternoon rode four miles to visit Mrs. Nelson, mother of Sister Bush. We were disappointed in not finding her at home. We returned, and on our way to the tent called on Sister Smith. She and her husband are convicted of the truth, but she is waiting for him. He is waiting to arrange his business before he keeps the Sabbath. I prayed with Sister Smith, and as it was already dark, made no more calls that night.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 30)
I spoke to the people in regard to walking in the light while they have the light. After I had ceased speaking I called them forward and urged upon them the necessity of making decided moves in the right direction. Quite a large number came forward and we united in prayer for them.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 31)
Friday, November 1, 1872
We tarried overnight at Sister Wood’s. Rose very early to take the cars for San Francisco. We felt the need of rest. Our meeting last evening continued until half past ten o’clock. We were up at four. We went by cars and boat to San Francisco. We arrived in the city at about twelve o’clock.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 32)
Thursday, November 7, 1872 [San Francisco,]
Tent erected on Market Street.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 33)
Friday, November 8, 1872
Meetings began. James White spoke in evening.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 34)
Saturday, November 9, 1872
Meeting was held under the tent Sabbath. Brother White spoke in the forenoon. I spoke in the afternoon. Elder Loughborough in evening.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 35)
Sunday, November 10, 1872
I spoke in the forenoon upon practical godliness. My husband spoke in the afternoon, and Elder Loughborough in the evening.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 36)
Thursday, November 14, 1872
We rode to the tent. Closed up my matter for Reformer. Brother Loughborough is copying testimony to Brother Cornell. Wrote eight pages to Brother Cornell.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 37)
Friday, November 15, 1872 [San Francisco,]
Was quite unwell. I wrote a long letter to my twin sister. I find it impossible to fix my mind on my subject. I have taken cold and my head is confused. I cast myself wholly upon the Lord. He can use the weak instrument to His glory. The efforts I shall make will be wholly fruitless unless God shall make me a channel of light, and speak through me.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 38)
We had a good congregation—about five hundred—under the tent. I had liberty in speaking upon the life of Christ and the prejudice and hatred of the Jews, which increased until He was crucified by them. The Christian world is now in a similar delusion, bound by the same prejudices. The Jews cried, “Away with Christ.” [Luke 23:18.] The Christian world now cry, “Christ, Christ, but Away with the law.” The Christian world does virtually crucify the law as the Jews crucified Christ.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 39)
Saturday, November 16, 1872 [San Francisco,]
We met with the little company under the tent. My husband talked to the point for about twenty minutes. Elder Loughborough followed. I spoke upon the necessity of fathers and mothers working in their own families, binding their children to their hearts. Several testimonies followed to the point, responding to the testimony borne. There is considerable feeling in the meeting.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 40)
Monday, November 25, 1872
Cold; meetings closed.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 41)
Sabbath, December 7, 1872
Attended quarterly meeting at Santa Rosa. Spoke to the people.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 42)
Sunday, December 8, 1872
Santa Rosa, spoke to the people with freedom.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 43)
Tuesday, December 10, 1872
Left Santa Rosa for San Francisco. Elder Loughborough accompanied me.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 44)
Friday, December 13, 1872
Attended meeting in San Francisco.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1872, 45)
Ms 6, 1872
Joy in Christ’s Service NP 1872 Previously unpublished.
The mission of the church of Jesus Christ is to save perishing sinners. It is to make known the love of God to men, and to win them to Christ by the efficacy of that love.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1872, 1)
The truth for this time must be carried into the dark corners of the earth. This work may begin at home. The followers of Christ should not live selfish lives, but [be] imbued with the spirit of Christ, then they will work in harmony with Christ.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1872, 2)
How often do we hear professed Christians complain, I do not enjoy religion. There is a most painfully marked contrast between the professed followers of Christ today, and those who followed Him amid persecution and peril. The writings of the apostles were given us in the times of distress and perplexity and adversity, and these compositions show a depth of Christian experience and triumphant joy that is rarely seen now in the writings of those who profess to believe the truth and live in obedience to it.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1872, 3)
There is a cause for the present coldness and unbelief. The love of the world, the cares of life, separate the soul from God. The water of life must be in us, and flowing out from us, springing up unto everlasting life.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1872, 4)
We must work out what God works in. If the Christian would enjoy the truth and the light of life, he must increase his efforts to bring others to the knowledge of the truth. His life must be characterized with exertion, self-denial, and sacrifices to do others good, and there will be no complaints of lack of enjoyment.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1872, 5)
Angels are ever engaged in working for others’ happiness. In this is their joy. That which to selfish hearts would be considered humiliating service of ministry to those who are wretched and in every way inferior in character and rank, is the work of the pure, sinless angels in the royal courts of heaven.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1872, 6)
The spirit of Christ, self-sacrificing love, is the spirit which pervades heaven, and is the very essence of its bliss. Those who feel no special pleasure in seeking to be a blessing to others, in working even at a sacrifice to do them good, cannot have the spirit of Christ and of heaven, for they have no union with the work of angels, and cannot participate in the bliss that imparts the elevated joy to the heavenly angels.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1872, 7)
Christ has said there is more joy in heaven over one sinner that repenteth than over ninety and nine just persons that need no repentance. If this is the joy of angels, in seeing sinners repent, will it not be the joy of sinners saved by the blood of Christ? Then, working in harmony with Christ and the holy angels will give bliss and joy that cannot be realized aside from this work.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1872, 8)
The principle of the cross of Christ lays every believing soul under heavy contribution to deny self, to impart light, and to give of their means. If they are [in] connection with heaven, they will be engaged in the work in harmony with the angels.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1872, 9)
The principle of worldlings is to gather, to get all that they can, for selfish love of gain is the ruling principle in their lives. The result, carried out, is crime and misery. The purest joy found is not in riches, not where covetousness is always craving, but where contentment reigns and self-sacrificing love is the ruling principle.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1872, 10)
There are thousands who are passing their lives in indulgence, and their hearts are filled with repining. They are victims of selfishness and discontent in the vain effort to satisfy the minds with indulgence. But unhappiness is stamped upon the very countenance, and behind them is like a desolate desert, because [they are] not fruitful in good works.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1872, 11)
In proportion as the love of Christ fills our hearts and controls our lives, covetousness, selfishness, and love of ease will be overcome, and it will be meet [i.e., fit] to do the will of Christ, whose servants we claim to be. Our happiness will be proportionate to our unselfish works, prompted by the love of Christ.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1872, 12)