Two Dreams That Illustrate Unity of Action NP January 20, 1873 This manuscript is published in entirety in 1SAT 1-3.
While at Healdsburg I dreamed [of] seeing several span of horses harnessed to machinery which they were to draw. My husband stood looking on to see if the harness was of sufficient strength to hold in making the required effort. The horses started drawing the load. Two horses from the number rushed out of their places and began to tug at the load, but could not start it one inch because they did not work in unison with the other horses. These looked back and seemed to think that the moving of the load depended upon them. They went first one side and then another, and became nervous and broke loose from the other horses and jumped in ahead of them all.
(2LtMs, Ms 1, 1873, 1)
In the act they were, they thought, taking the load when they were not stirring it. If these horses had kept their places they might have drawn their part of the load and been of important service, but when they rushed in ahead of the leading horses they were not drawing the load and were in the way, hindering the other horses from working. I thought my husband struck these horses sharply with the whip. One turned to him, and said, Don’t strike so hard; you cut deep. We had zeal to start this load and we thought no one could start it but us. We see we have not moved it, but hindered its moving, but a check was all we needed, not to be cut on to like balky horses. We will fall back on our traces and draw with the rest.
(2LtMs, Ms 1, 1873, 2)
I awoke, and fell asleep the same night, and dreamed that my husband was trying to right matters in the church at Battle Creek. There was difficulty. There were two or three that thought they had wisdom to bring the church into good working order. They wished to rearrange the church, and then they said it would be free.
(2LtMs, Ms 1, 1873, 3)
These men and women had a machine of their own to work, but the machine of each was united with a larger machine. Everyone must keep his or her hand employed on his or her own machine, and then the larger machinery worked beautifully and every revolution of the great wheel was exact and harmonious. If any neglected this machine which was connected with the great machinery, every revolution of the large wheel made a disagreeable noise which disturbed not only the building it was in, but the building across the road jarred and shook.
(2LtMs, Ms 1, 1873, 4)
I saw two in particular leave their machines and were watching the large wheel in the great machinery and were seeking to correct the great wheel, to have it move harmoniously and regularly. Instead of helping the difficulty, the machinery made a more disagreeable noise. I thought if all would stand by their own machines and diligently and faithfully do their own work correctly, there would be no trouble with the large machinery. But the noise of the large machine called the attention of several from their work. This difficulty was now to be settled. All wanted to know why the large machine ran so heavily, the wheel groaning at every revolution.
(2LtMs, Ms 1, 1873, 5)
My husband spoke very decidedly and sharply. Said he, You who left your own machine to correct the large wheel were out of your place. Had you kept by your own machines and worked them correctly, the large machine would have been all right. I thought my husband spoke very earnestly and reproved those who left their own work to attend to that which was not their work. These that had been the most to blame said, Do not be so severe. We thought we were carrying out your express directions in doing as we have done. But all we needed was a word and we would see our error. We thought everything was going to pieces, therefore left the very work we should have done, to save such a calamity, and sought to correct the large machinery, and so we made things very much worse.
(2LtMs, Ms 1, 1873, 6)
Ms 3, 1873
Diary, January 1873 NP January 1 - January 31, 1873 Portions of this manuscript are published in 3SM 90; 3MR 173; 6MR 290-291; 10MR 65-66. Wednesday, January 1, 1873 [California,]
At Elder Loughborough’s. We commence the new year with the blessing of God, and yet our earnest desire is to consecrate ourselves wholly to God. Last November the 26th, I entered a new year of my life. I was forty-five years old.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 1)
Wrote ten pages to Elder Littlejohn, after writing closely all day upon my matter for Spirit of Prophecy. For a change, rode out about dark. Weather unpleasant, rainy and foggy. This is the rainy season for California. But very thankful we are here in this warm climate. We learn the weather east is intensely cold, while here it is as pleasant as May.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 2)
Thursday, January 2, 1873
We awoke grateful to our heavenly Father for rest in sleep and peace of mind. It is very foggy. After spending a few moments in prayer in my room, I exercised in the yard, walking up and down a graveled path for the benefit of my health. We cannot get all the exercise we wish while it is so rainy. We rode to town to put letters in the office. My husband sent one to Brother Smith. Called upon Sister Walker. Wrote till after candle light. My husband and I had a very precious season of prayer in the barn. We feel the necessity of making earnest efforts daily to come nearer to God, and plead earnestly for greater light and more strength of body to serve God in speaking and writing out the truth. We have the assurance that God will be our helper.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 3)
Friday, January 3, 1873
We feel thankful for the rest the Lord has given us during the night. Before breakfast I wrote five pages to my children. Elder Loughborough goes to Petaluma on the cars this morning to have a team at the depot for me this afternoon. I follow in the train at three o’clock. Letter sent this morning to our children written by my husband and myself.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 4)
We went to Petaluma in the afternoon. We found the roads better than we expected. We drove up to Brother Cassidy’s a little after dark. Brother Loughborough had been to the depot for us and was perplexed to know why I did not come. When we came all felt relieved, as appointments had been given out for me both Sabbath and Sunday at eleven o’clock. We witnessed on our journey the most magnificent sunset we ever looked upon. The setting sun threw its golden rays upon the heavens, flecking the blue and white sky with its golden tints, illuminating the heavens. No artist could produce so grand a picture.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 5)
Sabbath, January 4, 1873 [Petaluma, California,]
We arose and walked in the orchard before breakfast. My head troubles me. We attended meeting at 10 a.m. At Sabbath school I spoke a few words to the children in reference to their lessons, “And what went ye out for to see?” etc. [Matthew 11:7-9.] I then spoke to the people from Malachi 3:13 and chapter 4:1-3. The ordinances followed. We think it was a profitable season. This is a delightful day. It seems like June weather rather than the fourth of January.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 6)
Sunday, January 5, 1873 [Petaluma,]
We had three meetings. I spoke at eleven o'clock upon the life and temptation of Christ in the wilderness. I felt the force of the subject I presented before them. I had the best of attention. I took dinner at Sister Crawford's. My husband spoke in the afternoon upon the reasons of our faith, from the Scriptures. He had freedom and an attentive audience. We then rode out four miles with Brother and Sister Chapman. They are whole-hearted in the truth. We enjoyed our visit with them very much. They have a nice family of five children, intelligent and well-behaved. In the evening my husband spoke upon the coming of Christ. We had a very good meeting and after it closed we were told that we could have the Baptist house any time it was not occupied by previous appointments. A good impression is left on the minds of the people.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 7)
Monday, January 6, 1873 [Petaluma,]
Brother and Sister Cassidy urged us to remain and have an interview with Brother Bowman whose mind was considerably troubled about the visions. We decided to do so, and Elder Loughborough would go on with the team to Santa Rosa. We had a very profitable interview. We gave due weight to his objections, and met them with a spirit of candor. His mind was much relieved. He is in very poor health. We had a praying season before he left. We prayed the Lord to bless and heal His servant and strengthen him for conflict and duty. His wife and children oppose his keeping the Sabbath, and he has a severe [conflict]. His health being so poor, this bears upon him. We parted with him feeling that our tarry was in the order of the Lord. We took the cars at half past five and got to Santa Rosa about quarter past six. Found Elder Loughborough waiting for us.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 8)
Tuesday, January 7, 1873 [Santa Rosa, California,]
It is a foggy morning. A board is fastened against the wall, one for my husband and one for myself, that we can stand up and write instead of sitting down. I commenced to prepare matter for the Instructor. I wrote Brother Kellogg six pages of note paper. Sent my children four pages. Copied seven pages of matter I wished to preserve.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 9)
Rode out with my husband about five miles and back. Went to the post office. No mail. The boat had not come into Donahue [?] to connect with cars. I felt too weary to pray that night, but thought of our Saviour toiling all day in teaching and healing the sick and then, although weary with His labor, devoting the whole night to prayer and then renewing His labor the next day. I resisted my weariness, and cried the more earnestly to God. His sweet peace came upon us. We all felt His blessing. I was paid a thousand times for the effort I made against the weariness of the flesh.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 10)
Wednesday, January 8, 1873 [Santa Rosa,]
I feel my lack of sleep during the night. My husband was quite sick. I kindled fires at two o’clock. Gave him an emetic. He suffered much pain. We cried to the Lord for help. He heard our prayer. We retired at half-past three o’clock and slept till morning. My husband was still in considerable pain. He has labored very hard writing nearly all the day previous. Elder Loughborough gave him treatment.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 11)
I finished my article for Instructor. No cars with mail. The boat was lost in fog. We rode out some distance. We had our season of prayer in the barn of Elder Loughborough. We pleaded earnestly with God for strength of body to glorify Him. We believe He will hear us. Already do we realize that God does help us. We walked about one mile. Closed up matter for Instructor. Had season of prayer and retired to rest.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 12)
Thursday, January 9, 1873 [Santa Rosa,]
We rested well during the night. My head feels the effect of much writing and little exercise. I walked in the yard and exercised what I could before breakfast. Wrote four pages to Addie, and Jenny Merriam. Sent it in this morning’s mail. Wrote four pages to Sanford Rogers. My husband, Sister Hall, and myself walked three miles in the afternoon. We had a beautiful view, from a high eminence, of the patches of brown cultivated lands interspersed with bright green patches of wheat and verdure. I received two letters, one from Messer Smith.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 13)
Friday, January 10, 1873
We rose early to prepare to go to San Francisco. My heart is inexpressibly sad. This morning I take into candid consideration my writings. My husband is too feeble to help me prepare them for the printer, therefore I shall do no more with them at present. I am not a scholar. I cannot prepare my own writings for the press. Until I can do this I shall write no more. It is not my duty to tax others with my manuscript.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 14)
We arrived at San Francisco at twelve o’clock; took the cars for Bryant Street. Walked up to Sister Rowland’s with two tolerably heavy satchels. Found Sister Rowland sick with erysipelas of the eye and face. I then walked to Sister Stipp’s; found R.S. eating a lunch of bread and baked apples. Joined him, and then my husband and myself walked to Brother Burton’s, and walked from Brother Burton’s to Sister Rowland’s. Visited her and we prayed with her. Then walked to Brother Stipp’s.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 15)
In the evening walked again to Brother Burton’s from Brother Stipp’s and back again. My teeth pain me. My spirit is very sad indeed. I will not let go my hold on God. “Although the fig tree shall not blossom, neither shall fruit be in the vines; the labor of the olive shall fail, and the field shall yield no meat; the flock shall be cut off from the fold, and there shall be no herd in the stalls: yet will I rejoice in the Lord, I will joy in the God of my salvation.”Habakkuk 3:17, 18.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 16)
Saturday, January 11, 1873 [San Francisco,]
We rested well last night. This Sabbath morning opens cloudy. My mind is coming to strange conclusions. I am thinking I must lay aside my writing I have taken so much pleasure in, and see if I cannot become a scholar. I am not a grammarian. I will try, if the Lord will help me, at forty-five years old to become a scholar in the science. God will help me. I believe He will.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 17)
We had a well-filled house. There were several strangers out to hear. We were pleased to see Sisters Roper and Billet and one of their Presbyterian sisters. Elder Loughborough spoke from Jeremiah 29:11. He was free and his subject very interesting. He applied the text with considerable force to the preparation for the coming of the Lord.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 18)
I then spoke upon Luke 21:34-36. I spoke of the sacrifice made by Christ for us and His bearing the test Adam failed to endure in Eden. He stood in Adam’s place. He took humanity, and with divinity and humanity combined He could reach the race with His human arm while His divine arm grasped the Infinite. His name was the link which united man to God and God to man.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 19)
The blessing of the Lord rested upon us. All felt the power of the truth. The melting love of Christ pervaded the house. Tears flowed freely. Opportunity was given for all that desired to bear testimony. Nearly all spoke and deep feeling pervaded the house.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 20)
I was urged at the close of the meeting to go to different places to dinner, but my husband was at Brother Stipp’s and I felt it duty to go there. Sister Ball went with us. In the afternoon we called upon Sister Jones. Found Sister Billet there. We conversed and prayed with these sisters. We had a very precious season. We then visited Sister Hall, who was sick at Brother St. John’s. We had a precious season of prayer with our sister. In the evening had conference meeting, then my husband spoke upon the coming of the Lord. The house was well filled and the subject was deeply interesting.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 21)
Sunday, January 12, 1873 [San Francisco,]
We cannot have meeting today in Excelsior Hall, for the Adventists keeping the first day have the use of it. We spend the day in visiting. My husband attended meeting of the First-day Adventists at the hall. I went before him to Ex-Governor Holden’s. Elder Loughborough and my husband took dinner with us. We enjoyed our visit. He treated us very cordially and asked us to call upon them again. We prayed with them before leaving them.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 22)
On our return to Brother Chittenden’s we passed an extensive building being erected by the Catholics for a college. They are very strong in the city of San Francisco. We observed some excitement and saw over our heads a balloon going up with a lady and gentleman in the basket. This scene, persons venturing their lives for amusement, does not interest us as much as to hear that our Saviour is soon to come in the clouds of heaven. In the evening my husband spoke with freedom upon the coming of the Lord. I followed, upon the preparation necessary for His appearing. We had a house full of interested listeners. There were quite a number of strangers present and we have strong hope that if meetings continue to be held, there will be an ingathering of souls.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 23)
Monday, January 13, 1873 [San Francisco,]
We called upon Sister Burton, to investigate reports that she had made in reference to entertaining Elder Loughborough. The statement was made to Sarah Rowland. Sister Burton denied making the statement. Sister Stipp and myself then went to Sister Rowland’s and told her. We feared that Sarah had not made a correct statement. Sarah was called and calmly stated what Sister Burton had said. We took Sarah and went down to Sister Burton’s and Sarah there repeated the statement of Sister Burton. Sister Pebworth corroborated the statement of Sarah. Sister Burton said that she had forgotten that she had made the remarks she did.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 24)
Oh my soul, is it so that there is no home or hearts open to receive the servants of God in the city? Must souls go to ruin because of the selfishness of professed Christians? What are we coming to? May the Lord open the eyes that are blinded by selfishness to see that it will prove their ruin unless they get rid of every particle of it.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 25)
Tuesday, January 14, 1873 [San Francisco,]
We called upon Sister Ball to accompany me to Lone Mountain to Brother Diggins’. We did not find him at home. Sister Diggins has been much afflicted with pain in her head. She was improving. We visited with her and prayed with her. We called upon the daughter-in-law of Brother Walker. She is a woman carrying a living trouble. Her husband is a gambler and treats her with neglect and disrespect.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 26)
We returned upon the street car to the rented rooms of Sister Hall. She found the address of Sister Miller, and we took the Howard street car to reach them. We found a young lady visiting with Sister Miller. We had a pleasant interview. We called upon her next-door neighbor, Mrs. Kitchen. Here we found a good Christian woman. She was hungering for religious society and conversation and prayer. She is in delicate health and unable to attend meetings much. She sees so much pride in the churches and so little genuine piety. She feels like one alone. We prayed with these sisters and the lady visiting them. We invited her to come to the hall to meetings. She thought that she could not because of her child. We told her to bring her child; we thought she would not be disturbed by its crying. Her countenance lighted up. She thought if she could come it would be a privilege. She said she had been used to going to meetings when a child, but the church-goers are now so proud and dress so expensively she could not clothe herself in any such apparel, therefore she must remain at home. Our friends seemed highly pleased with our visit and pleaded with us to come again.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 27)
Wednesday, January 15, 1873 [San Francisco,]
We arose early and prepared to go out visiting the sick. We walked out before breakfast. Called on Brother Stipp. We took breakfast at seven. We called on Brother Conkright [?]. We then took the cars for Howard Street and looked for [a] house to rent between Twelfth and Thirteenth Street. Called on Sister Miller. We then rode to Seventh Street and walked to Sister Rowland’s. We found her some better, although she is unable to be up. We conversed and prayed with her and left her in the hands of God. My husband and myself walked to St. John’s, No. 211 Seventh Street. We called to see Sister Hall. She was better. We conversed and prayed with her. We had a precious season of prayer. We left her in the care of our heavenly Father and I returned to Brother Chittenden’s. My husband went to the post office for letters. We met at Brother Chittenden’s and took dinner with them. We then rode to post office in the horse car. Walked from there to boat. We had a very beautiful day. The scenery was very beautiful. My husband slept one-half an hour. We took the cars at ____ in good season. Found Brother Loughborough waiting for us at depot. All seemed glad to meet us again and it was pleasant to meet with our friends after being separated about one week. We received letters from Brother Kellogg and our children and from Brother Belden at Battle Creek.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 28)
Thursday, January 16, 1873 [Santa Rosa (?), California,]
We were blessed with a good night’s rest. Had but little time for exercise before breakfast. Took breakfast at seven o’clock. Rode with my husband to depot to put letters on board the train of cars. Sister Loughborough and myself visited Brother Hewitt. Brother Hewitt we met on his way to his work. We had a very pleasant interview with Sister Hewitt; we united with her in prayer. We felt special freedom in supplication to God in behalf of the family. Sister Hewitt invited me to spend the night with them. We returned well satisfied with this brief visit. Sister Hewitt rather complainingly said, “Why does the Lord favor some more than others? Why does He give you ability to make so beautiful a prayer when I can scarcely pray at all?”“Do not,” I said, “complain of God. He is good, and His mercy endureth forever.” While Sister Hewitt has turned her mind in the direction of getting riches, they have not turned their minds and trained them to become intelligent Christians.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 29)
Took dinner with Brother Walker’s family. We had a pleasant visit. We then rode eleven miles to Brother Dimmick’s. Spent the night. Had a very hearty welcome and enjoyed our visit. We walked out on the campground. It was dry and we bowed before God and had a praying season. My husband, Lucinda Hall, and myself united in vocal prayer.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 30)
Sabbath, January 18, 1873 [Santa Rosa (?),]
I am sensible of having a severe cold. My husband will speak in the forenoon. I will take bath and if better speak in the afternoon. We walked to Brother Cook’s to see Elder Loughborough. Brother Cook informed that his wife presented him with a little daughter at five o’clock that morning. We visited with Sister Cook. We found her doing well, cheerful and happy. Brother Cook gave us an account of Quaker friends that had visited them. They conversed upon the truth with them. They were interested and returned home and have been keeping the Sabbath. We shall visit Brother Stickney when the roads become passable and shall then call upon the family mentioned. They are so anxious to hear the truth preached. They have not yet heard a discourse upon present truth.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 31)
I was unable to attend meeting. Took sweat bath. My husband spoke in forenoon. Elder Loughborough conducted the ordinances and conference meeting. My husband did not remain through the services. I spoke to the people in the evening with a measure of freedom.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 32)
Sunday, January 19, 1873 [Santa Rosa (?),]
I realize my cold in soreness of flesh and muscles, yet I must not think of yielding to this. I feared that Sister Young’s son would remain away from meeting to get dinner for us. We wished to tell them to attend meeting and we would call upon them some other time. We learned by our call that it would make no difference in their attending meeting.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 33)
My husband spoke in the forenoon with some freedom. We took dinner at Mr. Young’s. We had a very pleasant interview. We felt sad to see that Mr. Young was sacrificing his eternal interest to obtain a situation favorable to obtain good wages. He was powerfully convicted at the camp meeting and took his position on the truth, but he became discouraged, for he was in debt and entered into business where he could not keep the Sabbath. Sad, sad indeed!
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 34)
In the afternoon I spoke upon the temptation of Christ in the wilderness. Stephen was present. I had freedom in speaking to the people. There seemed to be some interest to hear. We returned to Brother Downing’s to rest. We spoke unitedly in the evening. My husband spoke forty-five minutes. I spoke above thirty. The house was well filled. Many wept.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 35)
Monday, January 20, 1873
Lovely day. We awoke refreshed with sleep. After we had taken breakfast and had prayers we walked to the Young’s. He had left for his business. We prayed with his mother and his wife and his children and said good-bye and returned to Brother Downing’s. We then prepared to go about eight miles to Brother Bond’s. It was an excellent road most of the way. The scenery was novel and very beautiful. We walked some and rode most of the way.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 36)
We arrived all safe at Brother Bond’s in good season. We found them close by the mountains. We were introduced to Brother and Sister Bailey. She is sister to Sister Bond. Their shanty is small but when inside seems quite roomy and not unpleasant. Mr. Bailey has a ranch one-quarter of a mile from here. He cordially invites us to spend some weeks at his house. We shall have a room in which to write, and he will accompany my husband on an excursion to the geysers, to the water to catch fish, and to the mountains to view the scenery. We are grateful for this hearty, courteous invitation. We prayed with the friends and returned to Healdsburg. Purchased silk dresses.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 37)
Tuesday, January 21, 1873
We have another glorious morning. We purchased some things below cost. We prepared to return to Santa Rosa. Tarried with Brother Dimmick’s till after dinner. Called upon Mrs. Matteson on our way to Santa Rosa. They received us cordially and urged us to visit them again. We arrived at Elder Loughborough’s a little after dark. We received letters from Edson, Willie, and Brother Kellogg. Also one of length from Sister Lockwood, and one from Addie Merriam. I wrote letters to Brother John Harmon [?] and one to Edson White.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 38)
Wednesday, January 22, 1873 [Santa Rosa,]
It is another lovely morning. We devoted some time to writing. Our colds affect our heads. Wrote ten pages to Elder Littlejohn in answer to his letter received the evening before. My husband took treatment. In the afternoon we went over to Brother Walker’s and helped Brother Cornell label the specimens of curiosities which he had gathered. Towards evening rode out. Received quite a number of letters.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 39)
Thursday, January 23, 1873
It is another beautiful day. We wrote some letters. Sister Hall and myself packed away the specimens until we should get more time to pack them carefully to send to Michigan. My husband took pack again today with good effect. After dinner Sister Hall accompanied my husband and myself to Petaluma. We had a delightful ride. The scenery was very beautiful. The bright green wheat contrasting with the brown earth makes a very beautiful picture. We arrived at Brother Moore’s about dark. We were heartily welcomed. We had a very pleasant visit and profitable season of prayer at night before retiring to rest. I had some very profitable conversation with Sister Moore.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 40)
Wednesday, January 22, 1873 [Petaluma,]
The sun rose beautifully again this morning. We ate breakfast and then had prayers, and Brother Moore took us to the depot in his fruit wagon drawn by two powerful horses. We met on the train Brother and Sister Young and their son, William. They remained in the city until Monday.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 41)
On the boat I wrote five pages to my sister Caroline. Our trip on the water was very pleasant. We went directly from the boat to post office. Then in street car to Brother Chittenden’s. Were received heartily. In evening we walked six miles. We attended the Chinese Mission school and were much interested in the exercises.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 42)
Sabbath, January 25, 1873 [San Francisco,]
My husband and myself both spoke upon the Sabbath. We had considerable freedom. There were a goodly number out. I spoke very plainly to the people in regard to following the light. My husband spoke upon the seal. In the afternoon we visited Sister Rowland and Sister Hall. Prayed with them. We were very weary when we returned to Brother Chittenden’s.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 43)
Sunday, January 26, 1873 [San Francisco,]
We had a beautiful day. I felt sick; feared that a day of sickness was before me. I consented to ride upon the lake with my husband and Brother and Sister Chittenden and Brother Vincent. We took dinner by request with Sister Rowland. Old Sister Hall was with us. We were much pleased to meet Brother Stickney. He was on business to the city.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 44)
Monday, January 27, 1873 [San Francisco,]
My husband is not as well as usual. He has, I fear, had too much physical exercise. We had an interview with Brother and Sister Young and their son William. The son wanted advice in regard to going to Battle Creek to attend the denominational school there. We advised him to wait until conference. In the afternoon we rode to post office. In the afternoon engaged the house on Howard Street. Had interview in evening with Brother and Sister Stockton and Sister Ball. We enjoyed a friendly visit with these friends at Brother Chittenden’s.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 45)
Tuesday, January 28, 1873 [San Francisco,]
We visited the Chinese temple of gods and witnessed the painful sight of the devotion of the Chinese to their senseless idols. They reverently clasped their hands, swaying them up towards their head and down three times as they bent their bodies in devotion to their gods. This was done before each idol. There were no less than ten idols in this temple. They had bowls and cups of food in them placed before their idols. Oh, how sad that such superstition should exist in a Christian land! We met some Christian Chinese who explained their gods to us. He said he no more worshipped Josh (their god), it was all superstition.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 46)
We then called on Sister Billet. She was not in. We called on Sister Dunivent [?]. Sister Billet came in and we had a profitable interview with her. A number assembled and we had a social season of singing. I was very weary. I wrote letter to Brother Lockwood. Brother Morton came to see us. We had not met him before. We are favorably impressed with his appearance. He is on his way to singing convention at Santa Rosa. I received a long letter from Addie Chamberlain.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 47)
Wednesday, January 29, 1873 [San Francisco,]
We visited Sister Rowand, Sister James, Sister Burton, Sister Stipp, Sister Hall, and Sister Dunivent [?]. There is a great lack here of coming up and engaging in the work of setting their own hearts in order, doing and feeling as Christians should. We appointed a meeting at half-past six to talk with the brethren and sisters, but there were none there at the hour, making the appointment a failure. We received letters from Brother Canright and copy of letters from William Miller to his children.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 48)
Thursday, January 30, 1873 [San Francisco,]
It is a beautiful, clear morning. My husband left San Francisco for Santa Rosa. Brother Stockings accompanied him. Sister Ball called; appointed a meeting with her at Sister Dunivent’s. Sister L. M. Hall and myself walked to milliner’s for hat that had been pressed and bleached. Paid 50 cents. Sister Hall went on to Mrs. Kitchen’s to tell her we should not take her house.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 49)
I called upon elderly Sister Hall. Had an interview with her. At Sister Dunivent’s we met Sisters Hall, Ball, and Sister Lucinda Hall. There matters of difference were talked over. Sister Dunivent was calm and unimpassioned, while Sister Ball acted unchristian, constantly breaking in while others were talking, and talking in an excited manner. She manifested decidedly an unchristian spirit. We felt that the differences between them might easily be settled if there were only a disposition to crucify self, and this we saw an unwillingness to do. Twice we prayed earnestly for God to soften the hearts of us all. After laboring from half-past six o’clock until ten, we were compelled to leave with no better feelings existing than when we came. It was cold and raw. We walked after ten o’clock back to Brother Chittenden’s. I was so weary I could scarcely stand.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 50)
Friday, January 31, 1873 [San Francisco,]
I am suffering with severe headache. My heart was so very sad I could not sleep for some time last night. I thought how hard for one to see or know his own faults. It is a very unpleasant day. I looked over my writings and tried to do something with them. I did not go outdoors through the day.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 51)
In the evening, at the commencement of the Sabbath, we missed Brother Chittenden. He did not come home till past twelve. We were so anxious we arose several times to inquire if he had returned. I advised Sister Chittenden and L. Hall to go in search of him. They learned of Brother Vincent [?] [that] he was seeking to save a sailboat in his care from being broken upon the rocks. We think our brethren should not place themselves in positions where they will be required to infringe on the sacred hours of God’s time. The night was a hard night for me. I was feverish and could not sleep. My teeth troubled me.
(2LtMs, Ms 3, 1873, 52)
Ms 4, 1873
Diary, February 1873 California February 1 - February 28, 1873 Portions of this manuscript are published in TSB 19; 3MR 174; 6MR 291-292; 11MR 119-120. [San Francisco,] Sabbath, February 1, 1873
It is a wet, cold, dreary day. I have appointment and must fill it. I am sick. My face is swollen. My teeth will hardly remain in my mouth, my gums are so badly swollen.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 1)
I committed my case to our heavenly Father and at the appointed time I went to the meeting in Excelsior Hall. We found a goodly number assembled in Bible class. Opened meeting by singing hymn. I then prayed earnestly for the Lord to work for His church and to give me strength to speak to those present. I had some freedom in prayer. I then spoke from John 17:20-23. I spoke, feeling the words I uttered with tears. I entreated the people that the prayer of Christ might not be in vain. There was a melting spirit with some, while others seemed to be as unimpressionable as stones. Some wept freely as we dwelt upon the inexpressible love of Christ for fallen man.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 2)
We had one hour’s intermission. Brother Chittenden went home and brought a large market basket full of provisions. He invited all to eat freely. Most that were at the forenoon meeting did not go home.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 3)
After taking refreshment we opened the meeting with singing and I again pleaded earnestly with God for His presence and His power in the meeting. I felt that the Lord indeed heard me pray. Notwithstanding I suffered much pain in my face and head, the Lord enabled me to rise above it all and speak with great freedom and power to the people from Psalms 15, dwelling especially upon the third verse, showing the sin of gossip and talk of our brethren's faults. While we are so busily engaged in seeing our brethren's faults we neglect our own souls, and poisonous weeds are flourishing in the garden of our hearts.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 4)
Sunday, February 2, 1873 [San Francisco,]
It is a cold, rainy, dismal day. I suffered much during the night and could not sit up through the day today. After returning from meeting I was compelled to lie down and keep perfectly quiet. Sister Hall fomented my face. This gave me some relief. Brother and Sister Chittenden did all that they could for my comfort. Today my face is very much swollen. I have had several callers, but I refused to see several who have called on Brother Chittenden’s family. Sister Chittenden’s little Georgie is sick with scarlet fever. This is indeed a house of affliction. May God pity us all, is my silent prayer. The state of the church weighs upon me heavily. I feel almost discouraged in regard to the cases of several. They do not seem to have a spirit of confession and of humility.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 5)
Monday, February 3, 1873 [San Francisco,]
It remains gloomy and stormy. We are thinking of leaving San Francisco for Santa Rosa today. I am still weak and sick, but I feel that it would be better to go than to stay. Many insisted it was imprudent, but I feel that I must go. Sister Dunivent called; brought me paper of figs and oranges. We took a hasty lunch and went to the boat. I have no appetite to eat. I have considerable fever. The passage on the boat was very pleasant, and I endured the journey upon the cars well. Met my husband and Elder Loughborough at the depot. They had no carriage. I told them I thought I could walk. I did walk, but it was too much for me. Notwithstanding this, I rested well during the night. For this I was very grateful. We received several letters. My husband had received letters from our children. We were glad to read and find they were well, cheerful and happy.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 6)
Tuesday, February 4, 1873 [Santa Rosa,]
It remains cloudy and rainy. The weather is quite warm. I am still feeling very weak. I tried to write to San Francisco to the brethren. Wrote twenty-seven pages upon the blessings Christ pronounced upon the mount. I had some freedom in writing. Brother Loughborough attended meeting to take up the case of Brother Wood. At our season of prayer I tried to pray for the brethren at San Francisco. My heart felt loath to give them up, and yet it seemed to me we could do most of them no good. I felt to weep in brokenness of spirit before God, as I felt that many were shutting away the light from them, and that darkness was enclosing them as a garment. We remembered the case of Sister Chittenden and her sick child. We prayed the Lord to be with them in this affliction.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 7)
Wednesday, February 5, 1873 [Santa Rosa,]
It still remains cloudy and rainy. I am still weak; cannot write or read much today. My husband seems to be doing well. I took pack in forenoon. My husband also took pack. Brother Sallie and Brother Dennison called. My husband talked with them in reference to Brother Hewitt’s case and related the facts in regard to matters at the office. Brother Hewitt has been injuring his own soul and injuring my husband by telling things he has heard from outsiders and from disaffected persons at Battle Creek in regard to my husband’s connection with the office. My husband proposes to meet Brother Hewitt before the brethren and disabuse his mind and theirs in reference to the matter. We received letters from Brother Kellogg and Edson and Willie. We find they are doing nobly in their studies.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 8)
Thursday, February 6, 1873 [Santa Rosa,]
It is still rainy and gloomy. Elder Loughborough left this morning for San Francisco. My husband and myself wrote a short letter to the church telling them our convictions in regard to their present position—that they were rejecting light and that darkness would come upon them. We rode down to the city, purchased wintergreen oil. I took pack. Felt better after the pack. We received several letters. Rode out several miles. Sent a letter of four pages to Edson. Elder Loughborough wrote us from San Francisco. There was no home for him and he took rooms and bought his own dinner.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 9)
Friday, February 7, 1873 [Santa Rosa,]
It continues rainy. We walked out some distance for exercise. I again resumed my writing upon Spirit of Prophecy. Received letters from Loughborough, from Emma White, and from Mary Chase, Fairfield Corners, Maine.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 10)
Sabbath, February 8, 1873 [Santa Rosa,]
It continues rainy. The storm increases. Brother Dennison called to inquire if we would speak at the church. We decided to remain at home if it continues raining. I looked over my writings with my husband. Prepared twenty pages of manuscript for a printer.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 11)
Sister L. went to meeting. Reports very good meeting. Matters were introduced in meeting and resolutions taken that the money which Elder Cornell should refund should not be received by them. They do not understand the case and are moving in the dark. Brother Dennison came in and talked matters over some.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 12)
Evening after the Sabbath, Brethren Hager and Sallie came in and my husband explained business matters of the office to them, showing them that the reports of Brother Hewitt are not correct. Brother Hewitt refused to meet [with] them to hear my husband explain himself and free himself from the charges Brother Hewitt has brought against him. This shows great unfairness in Brother Hewitt.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 13)
Sunday, February 9, 1873 [Santa Rosa,]
Rainy in the morning. Cleared away toward noon. We have promise now of fair weather. My husband and myself wrote some. I took pack and he a sitz bath. We think this treatment is doing us good. We rested till dinner time. Ate lightly, then walked one mile and half. Resumed writing until near sundown. My husband is writing for Reformer. We rode several miles. After we returned, wrote several letters. I wrote four pages to our daughter Emma; four pages to Marcus Lichtenstein. My husband wrote to Brethren Abbey, Smith, Kellogg, and Cornell.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 14)
We have seen the wonders of God in a gorgeous rainbow spanning the heavens. The reflection of the gold, purple, and silver upon the green mountains was a lovely sight. The power and wisdom of God can be seen in His works on every hand and should awaken gratitude and praise in our hearts.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 15)
Monday, February 10, 1873 [Santa Rosa,]
It is a beautiful morning. It seems like a May morning in Michigan. The birds are singing and everything is awakening to life. We walked about one mile to the post office. Put in eight letters. We enjoyed the walk and were ready for our breakfast when we returned. We devoted ourselves to our writing until eleven o’clock. My husband then took pack; I took sitz bath. Lay down and rested half an hour, and commenced writing again. Enjoyed a light dinner. Brother Young took dinner with us. We then walked out for exercise, returned and resumed our writing.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 16)
About five o’clock we went to depot for Elder Loughborough. He brought us letters from church at San Francisco, expressing their confidence in our labors, with names of most of the church signed. We received one letter from Brother Kellogg, and the Review. Brother William Young and Brother Dennison were visiting with us until late. My husband sat up till late at night to finish article for Reformer. I was very weary and needed sleep. The report of Elder Loughborough of things in the city of San Francisco is not very encouraging. I fear our labors have been in vain there. We trust the matter wholly with the Lord.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 17)
Tuesday, February 11, 1873 [Santa Rosa,]
It was rather foggy when we first arose. It rained hard during the night. The fog soon cleared away and we are now having a beautiful, clear, mild day. We arose early, prepared eight pages of manuscript for the Review, which matter is to go into my Spirit of Prophecy, Volume Two. My husband sent his article for Reformer. Brother William Young called. Devoted the day to writing.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 18)
Wednesday, February 12, 1873 [Bloomfield, California,]
We rode with Brother Ferguson to Bloomfield. The weather was raw and unpleasant. We had some rain. We tarried overnight with Brother Ferguson. My tooth began to ulcerate. It was very painful. We made hot applications and obtained but little relief. We then engaged earnestly in prayer to God, not only for relief from pain but for His special blessing that we could have His power to attend our efforts in behalf of the church in Bloomfield. We prayed until the perspiration came from every pore. With tears and confession and humiliation we made our supplication to God. We were blessed. The Lord graciously revealed Himself to me. His merciful arm seemed to be beneath me. It was a severe conflict of two hours long before victory came. I praised the name of the Lord for His revelation of Himself to me. We had made preparation for a night of prayer and suffering. We acted upon our faith—sent all to bed and we rested sweetly all night under the rich blessing of God.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 19)
Thursday, February 13, 1873 [Bloomfield,]
It is a beautiful morning. Brother Ferguson has a beautiful residence. We stand in his doorway and view the surrounding mountains, hills, and valleys. The bright green verdure in contrast with the brown cultivated soil makes a beautiful picture. This is just such a location as we would desire to live in. Everything around us is as advanced as May in Michigan. Trees are in bloom. Pear trees and almonds are in full bloom, and cherry trees are budding. Nature is putting on her beautiful dress.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 20)
Brother Ferguson took us about two miles to Brother Judson’s. We remain at Brother Judson’s through the meeting. My face is very much swollen, but I have no pain. The Lord has indeed answered our prayers. But today I am assailed with temptations and reflections the most saddening in regard to the future. My mind has been in great perplexity most of the time for two years. When will this end? I weep and pray alone and think I shall have freedom. Then as relief comes, my soul sinks in discouragement. I will look to God to help. He will not leave me. Oh, that I could lay off the armor and rest in the grave! I long for this rest.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 21)
We walked out, climbing a long hill by Brother Judson’s house. At its top had a grand view of the whole surrounding country. We saw the redwoods about six miles away.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 22)
Friday, February 14, 1873 [Bloomfield,]
Friday. We have another beautiful day, but my mind is exceedingly troubled. I will not place upon my diary the thoughts and distress of mind I endure. I long for rest of spirit. Will it ever come? Brethren Cassidy, Stipp, and Courtwright came from San Francisco, Brother Cassidy from Petaluma. I kept my room most of the day. There was a meeting in the evening, but I dared not venture out.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 23)
Saturday, February 15, 1873 [Bloomfield,]
It is rainy today, but we ventured out to the meeting, about one mile and a half. I did not feel like speaking but Elder Loughborough told me there were those who would be disappointed if I did not speak. I thought I would try to speak, irrespective of my feelings. My heart was all broken to pieces. As I attempted to talk I could not control my feelings. I wept as I tried to speak upon the sufferings of Christ in our behalf. There was much feeling in the meeting.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 24)
At noon I went to Brother Palmer’s to rest. They are in great affliction. Their son is dying with consumption.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 25)
I returned to the afternoon meeting. Elder Loughborough made some remarks. My husband spoke some time upon the rise and progress of the work of this message. I then followed and felt the burden of testimony to the people. The Lord helped me by His Spirit. Hearts were reached. I sat down, but was not free. I again arose and with the burden upon me gave to several testimonies for them personally, reproving their wrongs. It was a deeply solemn time. The ones reproved arose and responded to the testimony. A spirit of confession came into the meeting and the blessing of freedom was the result.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 26)
Between the afternoon and evening meetings we spent at Brother Palmer’s. Their son appeared to be sinking. My husband and myself prayed for the afflicted family and dying son. Brother Palmer seemed to be greatly blessed amid his affliction, which counteracted the anguish he felt to see his son dying. At this season of prayer Brother Palmer says he had a special manifestation of the Spirit and power of God. The angels of God seemed to be in the room and he was blessed in a most remarkable manner. We attended evening meeting and returned after the meeting of business to Brother Judson’s. We did not get to rest till after eleven o’clock.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 27)
Sunday, February 16, 1873 [Bloomfield,]
We are still at Brother Judson’s. It is raining and then the sun shines and then again it rains. It is frowns and smiles.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 28)
My husband spoke to a full house who seemed deeply interested. His subject was the coming of the Lord—“This generation shall not pass,” etc. [Matthew 24:34.] He made the subject very clear and I hope that souls will be benefited by the clear chain of truth presented. I followed with remarks upon the necessity of the preparation needed to meet the Lord with joy at His coming. In the afternoon there was a business meeting.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 29)
I returned to Brother Judson’s to rest for evening meeting. Appointment was given out for me to speak to the people in the evening. The house was full. I spoke upon the words of Christ, “Take no thought ... what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink,” etc. [Matthew 6:25.] The Lord gave me a spirit of freedom and victory before the people. I magnified the heavenly attractions and exalted the grace of God above every earthly blessing. I sought to impress upon minds that the meek and quiet spirit was to be sought for more earnestly and to be more highly prized than any earthly advantage that outward adorning would bring. No effort made to adorn the body for display could bear comparison with one of the simple flowers for natural beauty.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 30)
Monday, February 17, 1873 [Bloomfield, California,]
Our brethren leave today for their homes. Our conference has been a success. Everything has moved off smoothly and harmoniously. This conference will be attended with the best results. The cause will be placed upon a better basis than ever before. All are greatly encouraged at the result of this meeting.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 31)
My husband and Sister Hall returned to Santa Rosa for mail, intending to return in a few days or meet me at Green Valley. I remained to write out matter that I have had for several. Wrote testimonies for different ones. After dinner we engaged in profitable conversation and continued to talk until bedtime with Brother and Sister Judson. I took bath and retired to rest at nine o’clock.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 32)
Tuesday, February 18, 1873
I arose very early and wrote eleven pages of note paper before breakfast. I improved my time diligently till dinner hour. A message came for me from my husband that the Review contained appointment of conference at Battle Creek to be held the eleventh [of March]. My presence was required at Santa Rosa at once to make arrangements for said meeting. Brother Judson took me and Joseph Dennison and a young brother to Santa Rosa. With the exception of a little shower of hail we had a very pleasant journey. We talked over matters and decided it is best for my husband to attend the conference at Battle Creek and Sister Hall and myself remain here, I to devote my time to writing and in speaking to the people occasionally in the different churches.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 33)
Wednesday, February 19, 1873 [Santa Rosa, California,]
It is a beautiful day. My husband has taken cold. We walked out in the sun about three miles. We consulted with Brother Judson in regard to conference at Battle Creek and in regard to my remaining to help the cause what I could in California. We parted with Brother Judson. We hardly knew what decisions to make. We felt like crying earnestly to God for help in our emergency, to show us clear light in regard to our duty. We feel confident we shall not be left to go astray.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 34)
We visited Sister Dennison and her daughter. Poor girl! She married when but a mere child, needing her mother’s care. It was an unhappy event. She has a young child. Her health is poor and her husband was severe and arbitrary. This child was too young for a companion. He could not respect her as such. She was but a child. He ruled her like a tyrant. Already they are parted, she hating him most thoroughly and he without love for her.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 35)
Thursday, February 20, 1873 [Santa Rosa,]
It is a beautiful day. We have had very cold nights. Frost lay heavy upon the ground. After engaging earnestly in prayer to be guided in duty, we rest the matter with the Lord. We went to the dentist and I had a difficult root extracted, which had cost me a great deal of pain. I had three cavities filled. All this was performed successfully and I returned greatly relieved, thankful to God that the difficult job had been accomplished. We decided in the afternoon to pack our trunks and go to San Francisco, and we could then have a little more time to decide our duty. If my husband goes East, is it the will of God that I should remain? We worked very earnestly in preparing for our leaving in the morning.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 36)
Friday, February 21 Saturday, February 22, 1873 [San Francisco, Calif.,]
It is a beautiful day. I was sick. Have a severe headache and sickness of the stomach. I suffered much all day. My husband spoke twice after the meeting, closed Sabbath.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 37)
Sisters Stipp and Billet came to see us. Sister Billet was in a wavering condition. Her minister, Mr. Scott, and many church members had visited her and had, we think, some influence over her to unsettle her mind in regard to the Sabbath. We talked with her and I related some things shown me in regard to her case, which strengthened her very much. We then had a very precious season of prayer and the blessing of the Lord rested upon us all. I entreated her never to leave the Sabbath, but to cling to the truth at all hazards. God would be her strength and her support. His everlasting arms would be beneath her, and He would be to her a very present help in every time of need. In trying to help Sister Billet I was much blessed myself.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 38)
Sunday, February 23, 1873 [San Francisco,]
It is a beautiful morning. I am feeling very weak, but decided to go to the water to see the ordinance of baptism administered. One brother and two sisters are intending to go forward.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 39)
We rode upon the street cars about three miles. The tent was pitched to make change of clothing. Sisters Billet and Chittenden and Brother Champion were buried with Christ in baptism. Everything moved off pleasantly. The candidates were blessed in following the example of our Lord. All said it was the best baptism they had ever witnessed. All returned highly satisfied with the occasion.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 40)
Monday, February 24, 1873 [San Francisco,]
We visited at Brother Stipp’s. Took dinner with them. We received two letters from Elders Loughborough and Butler. I am considering in regard to my duty, whether we shall stay in California and labor or return to Michigan to the conference. There is much work to be done in Michigan. Many need help and I have an earnest desire to help those who will be helped. We prayed earnestly to God to know His will in regard to our going to Michigan.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 41)
Tuesday, February 25, 1873 [San Francisco,]
I spent my time in writing, closing up testimonies that were partly finished. I am much perplexed to know my duty. I long to do the will of God. Am willing, yea, earnestly desirous to be in the very place God would have me in. My heart cries out after God for light in regard to duty.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 42)
Wednesday, February 26, 1873 [San Francisco,]
It is cold and disagreeable. We took dinner at Brother Stipp’s. Brethren Loughborough and Judson were with us; came in on the boat. We had a very interesting interview with them. My mind still remains unsettled in regard to duty. I am pleading earnestly that I may make no move contrary to the will of Him who hath called me to be His servant. We had several seasons of prayer to be guided in judgment. Our tickets must be purchased today if we go East tomorrow.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 43)
We had a meeting in the evening. I spoke some time upon the duties resting upon the church, showing them they had failed to receive the blessing they might have had if they had worked in unison with us. I laid off my burden upon the people and cleared my soul. Bade them farewell.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 44)
Thursday, February 27, 1873
Left San Francisco at 7 a.m. We arose at five o’clock to get our breakfast, finish our packing, and get to the boat which took us to Oakland. The people were unwilling to let us leave them, but as there was no one to accompany my husband we felt that it must be right for us to go with him. We took seats in the cars at Oakland at eight o’clock a.m. We had a stateroom, retired if we chose to be from the passengers. I was sick in consequence of passengers being allowed to smoke on the cars. I could not eat; lay down much of the time. We passed much beautiful scenery. Passed Cape Horn, a most romantic and fearful spot, about dark. We felt to lift our hearts to God for His care and protection on the journey, especially in passing such dangerous places.
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 45)
Friday, February 28, 1873 [En route to Battle Creek,]
It is a beautiful day. We all rested well during the night. I became very sick—headache, stomach sickness. Ate but little through the day. We had pleasant company on the train. My husband felt unusually well. Sister Hall was troubled with pain in her limbs. We saw snow, the first we had seen during the winter. We saw quite a number of natives. They looked squalid and poor enough. Mothers exhibited their naked babies for a bit. A sight! What a degrading act!
(2LtMs, Ms 4, 1873, 46)
Ms 5, 1873
Diary, March 1873 NP March 1 - March 31, 1873 Portions of this manuscript are published in 11MR 120-121; 2Bio 377-379. Saturday, March 1, 1873 [En route to Battle Creek,]
We have had a beautiful day. We passed this holy Sabbath upon the cars. We kept by ourselves. We changed cars at Ogden. I was very sick all day; could not eat anything. The strong, aromatic smell of cigars affected me seriously. My head was full of sharp pain, my stomach sick. I would break out in profuse perspiration, then become deathly faint and sick. I struggled hard against it. I prayed for help from God. I fainted quite away. Smoking was banished from the car when the conductor learned its effect upon me. My husband, Sister Hall, and myself prayed earnestly, silently, for help from above. How precious was Jesus to me in my pain and perplexity. Our prayers were answered; relief came. From this time I improved.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 1)
Sunday, March 2, 1873
We had another lovely day. I felt quite well, except for weakness and loss of appetite. We slept well during the night. We passed over the most dreary desert—nothing interesting to be seen but snow and bunches of sage brush.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 2)
Monday, March 3, 1873
We have had a beautiful day. We have had no hindrance on account of snow. We passed through many snow sheds. I conversed with a young man who is dying with consumption. He is an infidel I cannot reach. He says when he dies it is the last of him. He has led a dissolute life and dies as the beast dieth. It made the Christian life look so bright in contrast with the gloomy prospects of this poor sinner who could not comfort himself with any bright picture when he should live again. His brightest hope is in no existence beyond the grave. I gave him lessons and tried to make him as comfortable as possible, but sad, sad is the thought of this man’s future. A just God he must meet.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 3)
Tuesday, March 4, 1873
We are still blessed with beautiful weather. My rest was not as good last night. We have a beautiful car, heated with steam pipes. We have lived out of our basket the entire journey with the exception of expending thirty-five cents for sundries. We are losing our appetites. Our friends go out to meals. They frequently expend one dollar each for a hasty meal, and lie down at night restless and cannot sleep, because of eating so heartily. We have rested well nearly every night. We took our last meal at one o’clock p.m. Changed cars at Chicago. Arrived at Battle Creek at half-past 10 p.m. Brother Abbey was waiting with sleigh for us. We came to our own home. Got to rest at [?] o’clock a.m.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 4)
Wednesday, March 5, 1873 [Battle Creek, Michigan,]
It is a very pleasant day but quite cold. We feel the need of sleep and rest. We have had many callers. My head is much confused. Our brethren are coming in to conference. We are warmly welcomed and are greeted heartily by our friends. We feel rejoiced to see our friends once more. We enjoy the open fire and our large, commodious rooms.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 5)
Thursday, March 6, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
We have a very bright sunshiny day. We had a sweet night’s rest. Feel much refreshed. We called on Ella Belden, who was sick at Health Institute. She is cheerful, but in rather a dangerous condition. We pray God to spare her to her father. He needs the comfort she can give him.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 6)
We received many callers. Our friends wish to speak with us. After so long a separation we cannot refuse them. We rode to the city, expended three dollars and a half for shoes and skirt, thirty-five cents for suspenders, ten cents for collars. In the evening had many calls from friends. Had a meeting of consultation. Did not close till ten o’clock p.m. I fear the effect of these meetings upon my husband’s strength. Wrote two letters—one to Will Walling and one to San Francisco.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 7)
Friday, March 7, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
I feel the taxation of last eve. My head aches. It is raining this morning, but soon the sun shines again. Finally it sets in to raining and rains very steadily.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 8)
Brethren [S. N.] Haskell and [G. I.] Butler came to see me. In the evening we talked over the matters of our preaching brethren. We have had an interesting conversation. We had a very profitable season of prayer. We have supplicated the Lord earnestly in behalf of Sister Abbey. We felt that God would work in her behalf and restore her to health.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 9)
Sabbath, March 8, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
The wind has blown very hard all night. It is a very blustering day. We rested very well last night. We had a precious season of prayer. I spoke to the people assembled in the meetinghouse. I spoke from these words, “If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you,” etc., John fifteen, seventh verse and onward. I had freedom in speaking to the people. The congregation was large and there was deep feeling in the meeting. My husband spoke in the afternoon.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 10)
Brethren [S. N.] Haskell and [G. I.] Butler called upon us and we read the testimony and had very profitable talk. Emma White called. We shall have her come and live with us. Emma seems well. We love her.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 11)
Sunday, March 9, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
We wrote some, and are seeking to get rested from our journey. Sister Abbey is a cripple. We pray earnestly to God in her behalf. Brother [J. N.] Andrews called. I did not see him. In the evening he came to visit us. After some time spent in conversation we united in prayer. I felt a spirit of prayer for Brother Andrews.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 12)
Tuesday, March 11, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
Our conference commenced today. Business meetings. My husband labored in the meetings all day. It is very blustering and cold. We took breakfast at the Institute. Attended prayers with them. My husband spoke a short time with acceptance. We made several calls. I returned home; finished a letter of sixteen pages to Sister Hall. Walked to the office, that it might not be delayed. We took dinner at Brother [S. N.] Haskell’s. My husband rested in sleep one hour.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 13)
Wednesday, March 12, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
We arose with headache. Went to the Institute for treatment. Emma accompanied us. We took treatment. Emma [White] took dripping sheet. I took electric bath. Rested the forenoon, but was very nervous the entire day. At night I lay down to rest on the lounge. Brother Jorgenson [?] came to talk with me. I thought it impossible for me to converse, but thought I would try. I labored with him, to encourage him to assert his Godlike manhood, to have courage, and free himself from the shackles of the enemy. He expressed great relief and hope. He talked freely of his unbelief and trials. I tried to meet his unbelief wisely, with words that would lift him out of his despondency and gloom. He said that he never expected so great help from anyone living as from that interview. I felt rewarded for my effort of two hours in my weariness.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 14)
Thursday, March 13, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
We arose early. A committee was waiting to consult with my husband. We attended the conference meeting in the morning. We had a very tender spirit in our meeting. Brother Butka [?] from Missouri spoke with great brokenness of spirit. Brother Jorgenson [?] spoke of receiving light and peace in our conversation last night. The delegate from Seventh-day Baptists spoke to the point.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 15)
Friday, March 14, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is a pleasant day; very muddy underfoot. We arose at five o’clock and had a special season of prayer, Brethren Andrews, Waggoner, Gaskill, Lindsay, Cummings and wife, and Brethren Butler, Canright, and Haskell. Most of these took breakfast with us. We attended morning meeting. I left before it was finished. Wrote in the office two pages to children. Returned to the meetinghouse. The meeting was interesting.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 16)
I spoke in the evening to the people from, “God forbid that I should glory save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ.” [Galatians 6:14.] I had good freedom in talking. The house was full. We invited those who desired prayers to come forward. Quite a number came forward and we united with them in prayer. The Lord granted us His grace and we felt that it was a profitable meeting.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 17)
Sabbath, March 15, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
I spoke to the people in the forenoon. The air was very oppressive. I had not my usual freedom. My husband spoke in the afternoon upon the coming of our Lord. In the evening there was a conference meeting. Several talked. It seemed to be rather of a failure. Several came forward for prayers.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 18)
Sunday, March 16, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
Brother Andrews talked in the forenoon with good freedom and a house full. Brother Griswold, Baptist delegate from Seventh-day Baptist denomination, preached a very good discourse. Brother Smith gave an interesting discourse in the evening.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 19)
Monday, March 17, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
Business meetings through the day. I spoke to the people Monday night. I felt a great pressure of darkness, but finally gained the victory and left the burden upon the people. I invited those who felt that they had not the favor of God to come forward. To my surprise two-thirds of all in the house came forward. Among them were two interested ones who were seeking the truth. Some came forward who were seeking the Lord, but most were members of the church. We had a very important season of prayer. The Lord’s hand seemed to reach down to lift us. There were many testimonies of confession. The meeting was held until ten o’clock and we returned home.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 20)
Tuesday, March 18, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
Brother Burdick called upon us. We had a very pleasant interview. We then met at the house of worship. We had come to the time of the election of president, secretary, and treasurer. Votes were cast and Elder White elected by unanimous voice as president; Sister Van Horn as secretary; Brother Harmon Lindsay as vice-president; Brother Cummings as treasurer. In the afternoon Brethren White and Andrews confessed their wrongs and failures. There seemed to be but little freedom in the meeting.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 21)
Wednesday, March 19, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It was a cold, blustering day. I called upon Brother and Sister Smith. Brother Andrews was present. I talked with them some time to learn the true state of their feelings. I cannot feel that they are in rebellion. I communicated to my husband a more favorable state of things than I had anticipated. He still feels that Brother and Sister Smith are not in union with us. Brethren Haskell and Butler came to our house. We had a season of prayer. I could not pray. My husband felt that he must have the victory.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 22)
Thursday, March 20, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
We had an interview at Brother Smith’s. He is dissatisfied with some things in my husband’s letters; some expressions he thinks too severe. I related the matter to my husband. We had meeting in the house of worship. Brethren Waggoner and Andrews confessed. Brother Uriah read a letter which was uncalled for; made no concessions. I talked at length in regard to the course pursued in letting murmurings arise in regard to my husband. A sadness rested upon us all as the meeting closed. Brother Woolsey spoke to the point. Brother Van Horn spoke well. The same evening all met at our house. My husband prayed earnestly for Brethren Waggoner and Andrews and Smith. Brethren Waggoner and Andrews were greatly blessed. The Spirit of the Lord came down and we realized the presence of God very near. Brother Smith seemed to remain unfeeling and unblessed. He did not open his heart to the gracious influences of the Spirit of God.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 23)
Thursday morning we had meeting with the council in regard to Brother Lockwood’s case. He has been all out of his place, taking burdens of office, matters that no one had placed upon him.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 24)
I had electrical bath. Made arrangements for Lillie Belden to come to my house every day to be instructed in sewing and kept in useful employment.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 25)
Friday, March 21, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
I went early in morning and called on Sister Graves. Had interview with Sister Taylor and Etta Aldrich. Had an interview with Sister Aldrich. Talked with Brother Butler. We met at Brother Smith’s. My husband talked some. Brother Smith remains unsoftened—hard. Husband seems depressed.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 26)
Called another meeting at the house of prayer in the afternoon. Officers were elected, also editors. A controversy arose in regard to who should serve as president. The ministers seek to press my husband in but he refuses to accept the office. I sustain him. His health has failed under the burden. He must have rest or sink under the pressure of care. Some difference in understanding the testimonies. Some think my husband cannot be free from the burdens. May God guide in wisdom. Sister Hall and I call to see Ella Belden. She is feeling cheerful. Her symptoms are little better. We conversed and prayed with her. We called in to see Mrs. Thomas, a Baptist lady. Had a pleasant interview and season of prayer. We felt the sweet presence of the Lord.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 27)
Sabbath, March 22, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
My husband spoke with great freedom and power. I remained at home to write. After my husband had closed his discourse he invited those who desired prayers to come forward. There was deep feeling in the meeting. Many wept. As they came forward they sang, “Just as I Am, Without One Plea.” In the afternoon Brother Butler spoke with great freedom.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 28)
Sunday, March 23, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
Spent some time in the office preparing matter for Reformer. Spoke in the evening to a full house with some freedom. Took dinner at Brother Lindsay’s.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 29)
Monday, March 24, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
Spent the day at the office, preparing matter for Reformer. We took dinner at Brother Ings’. We advised them to remain at Battle Creek. They thought of returning to Iowa if they could not be a help in Battle Creek. We do not wish to lose their influence here. Returned to office again to continue to prepare matter for Reformer.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 30)
Tuesday, March 25, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
Was at the office most of the day, preparing matter for Reformer.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 31)
Wednesday, March 26, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is a very stormy day. I arranged my writings. My husband sent for me to take dinner at Brother Kellogg’s. It was very cold and stormy. It looked imprudent to go out, yet I ventured. We had a pleasant visit with Brother Kellogg’s family. Had a good hygienic dinner. Borrowed a book to select piece for Reformer. In the afternoon was at the office, selecting pieces for my department in Reformer. Returned home. In evening had an earnest praying season for Sister Abbey.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 32)
Thursday, March 27, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
I designed to spend the day in writing. Just as I was about to engage in my writing Sister Cummings came. I visited with her quite a while then went to the Institute with Emma [White] for treatment. My husband came for me to ride and I did not take treatment. Rode down to the city, bought one dozen paper bosoms for my husband, rubber cord for net and pants. Took dinner with Brother and Sister Van Horn. Had a pleasant visit with them. Returned home. Stopped at the Institute a short time and returned home and engaged in writing. Dr. Russell called in evening, before leaving for an urgent call to Wis. [?] from Brother Sanborn. We had a pleasant interview with Dr. Russell. Elders Andrews and Haskell spent the evening with us. Tarried overnight.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 33)
Friday, March 28, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is raining. My husband spent the day at the office. He brought me two letters, one from Elder Loughborough, with two letters copied that he had received from Brethren Stipp and Stockton. My husband came home with Sister Lampson. We had a pleasant visit. Sister Lampson dined with us. I have forty-eight pages completed for the Health Institute. My head is weary. Received a good letter from Will Walling. He urges us to come and stay with him in the summer and I think we shall do so.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 34)
Sabbath, March 29, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is a blustering day. My husband attended meeting. I did not. I wished to speak to the brethren and sisters of San Francisco. I wrote sixteen pages—to Elder Loughborough, six pages; to Brother Diggins, ten pages; also wrote Brother Stockton two pages. My husband spoke to the people with freedom Sabbath. In the afternoon I [not completed]. Brethren came in after meeting. Sister Butler came to visit us. Brethren Andrews and Haskell called. I read to them the letter written to Brother Diggins. We had a season of prayer of considerable interest.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 35)
Sunday, March 30, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
We visited the Health Institute to learn definitely in regard to Ella’s case [Ella Belden]. Talked with Sister Chamberlain. She expresses but little hope of Ella’s recovery. Took electric bath. Saw Ella through an electrical bath. She bore it well. In the afternoon walked with my husband to the office. We had interview with Brethren Bell and Butler and Haskell. Walked home in the rain. It rained very hard. My husband seemed depressed. He decided that he had better remove to Edson’s [White] home.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 36)
Monday, March 31, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is cloudy, cold, and windy. We went to the office. Made preparations for moving into the house of Edson’s. Brethren Ings and Marcus moved out. Brother Ings went in with Sister Cummings. Marcus boards with Brother Graves. In the afternoon Ella [Belden] was taken home. She bore it well. Poor child, she has been very homesick. We have things arranged to keep house at Edson’s, preparatory to receiving our children. We are comfortably arranged. Sisters Gaskill and Taylor came with provisions for our breakfast. They were very thoughtful. We went to Brother Whipple’s and purchased some things. We went to Mr. Meachanis’ office to sign a deed for piece of land for burial spot to Brother Andrews [?]. Sent Sister Caroline letter of two pages. Received letter from Brother Cornell.
(2LtMs, Ms 5, 1873, 37)
Ms 6, 1873
Diary, April 1873 NP April 1 - April 30, 1873 Portions of this manuscript are published in 3SM 264; 8MR 448; 2Bio 379, 381. Tuesday, April 1, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
April opens dark and blustering. Some sleet and wind. We took breakfast in Edson’s house. Emma [White] prepared a good breakfast from the supplies sent the night before by Sister Gaskill. After prayers went to the office to prepare me a place for writing. Have arranged my writings, preparatory to work.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 1)
Called to see Ella. She has considerable fever. I fear mismanagement in her case. We united in prayer for Ella Belden. The peace of heaven rested upon us. We felt the assurance that with proper care and the blessing of God she would recover. We called at Health Institute; conversed in regard to Ella’s case. Employed Sister Simenton [?] to nurse Ella until she is better. We spent the night at our own home. Brother Cummings has bought our old home upon the corner.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 2)
Wednesday, April 2, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It continues cold and blustering, more like January than April. We took breakfast, attended prayers, and then went to the office. A letter was handed me from Brother Chittenden. It was a very encouraging letter. I sat down and answered it immediately. Wrote four pages of letter paper. Called to see Ella [Belden]. She appears a little brighter. My husband took bath at Institute. Went with Brother Gaskill to get paper. We took dinner at Brother Gaskill’s. Went home on an errand. Met Sister Cyrenius Smith. Called again upon Ella and continued my work upon my writings in the office.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 3)
Thursday, April 3, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
We decided to have a room fitted up in the office where I could be retired to write and not be disturbed with callers. I have taken cold; have the headache. We purchased a carpet for the large front room in the office. We called the girls in the office together and soon had the carpet well made and brethren put it down for us. It gives a very cheerful look to the office and makes everything very comfortable. This is quite a pleasant day, but very muddy. I called in to see Sister Salisbury. She is in poor health.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 4)
Friday, April 4, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is unpleasant—raining. We spent most of the day in clearing out the papers in the office. I took out pieces from papers worth preserving. Found Ella Belden no better. My son Edson [White] returned. We moved the melodeon to his house. Fitted up the rooms comfortably for us to stay with our children.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 5)
Sabbath, April 5, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
We remained at home. There is a great change in the weather. It is oppressively warm. I dare not trust myself in meeting. Took a bath and lay down. Wrote to Sister Billet, of San Francisco, ten pages of letter paper. There is meeting in evening, but it was interrupted by some being obliged to leave to get their names registered as voters. I was so weary I returned home. My husband came home late. He brought Brother Duncan and a young brother with him to spend the night. There was a violent storm of thunder and lightening and heavy blow with rain. My husband did not retire until late, after the violence of the storm had subsided.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 6)
Sunday, April 6, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It was warm but cloudy. I took treatment at the Health Institute. Took dinner at our old home. My husband feels very poorly. May the Lord sustain him, is our prayer. Wrote a letter to Sister Loughborough. Looked over papers in the office, rejecting everything not valuable. Received letter from Elder Loughborough. Brethren Loughborough and Haskell met at our house. We had a solemn, earnest season of prayer for Sister Abbey. The Lord let His power and blessing rest upon us all. Our faith claimed the promises and the Lord let light and power rest upon us. Sister Abbey claimed the blessing. I believe her restoration has commenced, indeed.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 7)
Monday, April 7, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
Wrote to Brother Otis Nichols four pages of letter paper. Completed the letter to Sister Billet. Had interview with physicians at Health Institute. I read forty-eight pages of manuscript, testimony for the physicians and helpers. This was a severe task to me, a work I did not love. My husband is sick. He attended meeting in the evening, which did not close until about ten o’clock. My husband felt much depressed. We prayed for him and he seemed to be relieved and blessed.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 8)
Tuesday, April 8, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is raining and disagreeable. My husband and myself went to the office. My husband felt so bad he returned to Emma White’s to rest. He slept one hour and a half. Took dinner at Emma’s. My husband is feeling very poorly and is much dispirited.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 9)
Wednesday, April 9, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is tediously cold yet we worked out most of the day. Sister Hall attended to Willie’s orders for fruit roots.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 10)
Thursday, April 10, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is very disagreeable and cold. We do not venture out much. I am not well; threatened with headache. Rode down street to Salisbury’s.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 11)
Friday, April 11, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
Went to Institute today. It was a cold, blustering day. We were writing at the office. This morning we met our dear boy, Willie. We must needs have some visit with him and Brother Kellogg, who have returned from their long course of study. They all—Brother Kellogg, Johnny K., Jennie Trembley, and Willie—look remarkably well; complexion clear. All look hardy. We had our dinner brought up to our room in Health Institute. Willie ate with us. We decided to spend the Sabbath at our old home in company with our children.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 12)
Sabbath, April 12, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
The ground is covered with snow. It is a cloudy day. My husband spoke to the people in the forenoon. I remained at home because I did not feel able to attend. In the afternoon I attended meeting. Brother Butler spoke from Kings, “I will not sacrifice to the Lord that which cost me nothing.” [2 Samuel 24:24.] He spoke with considerable force and his remarks were impressive. My husband spoke about thirty minutes.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 13)
After the meeting closed I visited Ella Belden. Had a sweet season of prayer with her. I then visited Brother and Sister W. Salisbury. We had a precious season of prayer with the family. Brother and Sister Salisbury united their prayers with mine. We all felt that the Lord blessed us. I then called upon aged Brother and Sister Morse. We found Sister Morse very feeble. Her race is evidently nearly run. We spoke words of comfort to her and prayed with these two aged pilgrims. The Lord blessed us. Melting mercy came to our hearts. I visited Brother and Sister Gardner. He is nearing the close of his journey. Disease has made him very weak. He was overjoyed to see me. We united our prayers together and the hearts of these afflicted ones were comforted and blessed. Returned home. Found Sister Kingsley waiting to see me. We walked to the Institute, my husband and myself, to attend a directors meeting to consider the matter of building a schoolhouse, and other matters of importance.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 14)
Sunday, April 13, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is a very pleasant day. Sister Kingsley helped me sew. I remained at home in the forenoon. We took dinner at the Health Institute. Our children and the directors took dinner at the Health Institute. After dinner we had a sing and my husband spoke a short time. I returned home and met at Health Institute again at four o’clock. The directors were to consider the wages of the physicians. I looked over our home upon the corner, which had passed into other hands. Brother Cummings had purchased it. Called upon Ella [Belden]. She seems to be going down. I can see no possible chance for her recovery unless God shall heal her by a miracle of His mercy. Brother Kellogg called with me. He thinks her case beyond the reach of human aid. Returned home. Brother Merriam called to see us and begged us to have an interview with a gentleman from Madrid County, New York. In a few moments Jenny Merriam and the gentleman came. He told a most wonderful, interesting experience. His name is Sherman.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 15)
Monday, April 14, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
We have another pleasant morning. We walked to the Health Institute and took breakfast and remained with them for family prayers in the parlor. We then had meeting of the directors in the movement room. Many things were taken up in regard to the labor of physicians, their wages, and the necessity of physicians taking especial care not to get sick, for if a physician is sick patients can have no confidence that they can be treated successfully.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 16)
Went to office. Wrote a little. Had long interview with Burleigh Salisbury. Took dinner at home. Called on Marcus and wife. Had a pleasant visit. After I returned home Marcus came tugging a large basket of apples, three cans of fruit, and a large cake of maple sugar. After dinner called on Burleigh Salisbury and rode to the office. Prayed with Ella [Belden]. The peace of God rests upon me every time I engage in prayer for her. Read manuscript of testimony to brethren who met at our house. Then there was talk of business matters in regard to school.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 17)
Tuesday, April 15, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is cloudy, but not stormy. We went to the office. Ella [Belden] does not seem to improve. Poor patient dear! She makes no complaint, is ever cheerful, and never repines. I prepared matter for Reformer. Had talk with Willie in morning. Called upon Ella. She is not quite as well. Took dinner at our old home. Returned to office.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 18)
Visited Ella in evening. Brother Kellogg called and made a close examination of her case. He decided if God did not heal her she must die, for no human skill could reach her case. We had a marked season of prayer. The blessing of God rested upon us in power. My husband felt much. It was indeed a solemn place to us and yet very precious. Ella enjoyed the season of prayer much. We called on Nettie Salisbury. She is in a critical state of health. Brother Abbey accompanied a patient to his home in Ohio.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 19)
Wednesday, April 16, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is cold and disagreeable weather. We must make our sunshine today if we have any. Rode to office. Rode to Chilson’s and Mott’s for roots. Ella Belden is failing. She shows marks of dissolution. She had an unfavorable change in the night. We took dinner at Edson’s. Sister McDearman, Nettie, and her husband and two children were also there. In the evening we had a praying season for Nettie. We followed the direction in the Word of God. Having anointed her with oil in the name of the Lord, we prayed for her recovery. We believe the promise of God, “the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and God shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him.” [James 5:15.]
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 20)
Thursday, April 17, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is cold, disagreeable weather again today. We took breakfast with Brother Abbey’s family. After prayers we rode to the office. We went to the house for Lucinda Hall and rode up to Mott’s and Chilson’s nursery for roots to fill Willie’s orders. It was dinner time when we returned. Johnny Kellogg and Willie went in another carriage. We viewed the hothouse where they were growing plants for market, visited Mrs. Chilson, conversed some in regard to California.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 21)
We find Ella [Belden] failing, yet she says she suffers no pain. We went to Institute in evening for treatment. My husband returned home feeling bad that Sister Chamberlain had taken her bed in movement room. I slept alone at the Institute, as I was fearful of taking cold if I returned home after taking treatment.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 22)
Friday, April 18, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
We took breakfast at Brother Abbey’s. Ella Belden died about eight o’clock p.m. We immediately attend to the preparations for the family on this mournful occasion. We had several sisters come to our house to sew for the children and prepare the robe for the dead. Brother Belden feels deeply. All the family will miss Ella and their loss seems great. We kept busily employed all day. We rode up to the cemetery with Brother Belden to select a lot to bury his dead. For the present Ella was placed on Elder Loughborough’s lot, with a view to purchasing the lot of him and removing his friends to another lot. In the afternoon we rode down and selected a coffin. Sister Cornell was with me and looked at robes. They cost six and seven dollars. We purchased merino and took muslin and made a very nice garment for three dollars. The Sabbath of rest has come and we hail with joy its peaceful hours.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 23)
Sabbath, April 19, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
We are not feeling well. We rested but little during the night. My husband spoke to the people in the forenoon with considerable freedom from Matthew 19:28-30. I spoke to the people in the afternoon in regard to praising the Lord. I read 144th and 145th Psalms and made remarks in regard to our lack of praising the Lord. The people seemed to feel the necessity of awakening to a realizing sense of God’s mercies and unbounded goodness. We had many very precious testimonies to the point. We felt that our meeting had not been without some good results.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 24)
Sunday, April 20, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is very cold and cloudy. My husband could not sleep. He feels much perplexed. He is sick and does not feel able to speak to the people at the funeral. Brother Uriah will have to officiate. I hasten down to the afflicted family. The funeral is at ten o’clock. Everything seems to be prepared modestly and decently. The dead is dressed in a very proper manner for her last resting place. Brother Smith spoke to the people well. His remarks were to the point. Brother Hutchins prayed with touching fervor for the mourners, and after singing we moved along after the bearers to the hearse. We have seen the last rites performed for the dead, and we now leave the precious dust till the trump of God awakens her from her slumber to life and immortality.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 25)
After dinner I wrote fifteen pages of note paper, visited with callers twice, and then ran half of the way to the meetinghouse to fill my appointment to speak to the anniversary of the mothers’ meeting. I had freedom in speaking. I was much wearied after speaking one hour. The burden of the day had told upon my strength. Walked home and completed a letter and retired to rest.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 26)
Monday, April 21, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
We find the weather still cold and cloudy. Called at Brother Cummings’ to see if it is convenient for us to lodge there and take treatment at the Institute. They liberally gave us their parlor chamber to set up a bed and furnish as we pleased. We met Brother Kelsey with plow. We asked him if he could plow in faith, thinking it was summer. He said he could not for himself. The air is chilly and specks of snow are falling. I wrote some in the office.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 27)
Attended literary society. The exercises were interesting. My husband spoke of the news contained in a letter from Elder Loughborough that a very intelligent lady we became acquainted with upon the cars, to whom we gave a Reformer, embraced the truth under his labors and that he had baptized her and her son. Her son was heretofore an infidel. I spoke after being called upon. I tried to impress upon them the importance of the young men becoming acquainted with the reasons of our faith from the Scriptures, and the great work that was being done through the distribution of tracts and reading matter. After the meeting closed, we attended meeting of the directors of Health Institute. It was decided we should occupy the southwest room and be at home there.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 28)
Tuesday, April 22, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
We find the earth covered with her white winter mantle. The snow is four inches and one quarter deep on the level. We took breakfast at Brother Abbey’s. Walked to the office. We had a season of prayer and prepared to take our trunk to Institute. Sister Swan called. Had an interview with her. Rode to the office with her. I wrote to Mr. Walling.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 29)
I took dinner at Brother Ginley’s. My husband was expected to be there, but when I arrived at Brother Ginley’s I was surprised to find my husband not there. Brother Ginley went to the Health Institute, expecting to find him there, but no. We went to Brother Abbey’s to see if he was there. Word was returned that he was too faint to come to dinner. I then sat down with Brother Ginley’s family.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 30)
I had taken about half my dinner when a messenger came with the word my husband had another shock of paralysis. I hastened to the house and found my husband’s right arm partially paralyzed. We anointed with oil and then engaged in prayer for his recovery. The Lord came near by His Holy Spirit. My husband was greatly blessed. His arm was strengthened. We felt assured that by the blessing of the Lord he would recover. We moved to the Institute. My husband feels cheerful and happy. He now is settled in regard to his duty to drop everything like burdens at Battle Creek and spend the summer in the Colorado mountains.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 31)
Wednesday, April 23, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
My husband did not rest well during the night. He felt quite well considering the severe shock he had received. He feels cheerful. His head seems to escape the blow. We rode out in the forenoon. Sister Lucinda went with us. The air is quite chilly. Took dinner at the Health Institute. We rode out again in the afternoon. Our ride was very pleasant but it was quite cold. My husband exercised his mind considerably.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 32)
I prepared my article for Reformer. Called upon our daughter Emma. Called also at Brother Abbey’s. My husband met with directors and said a few things to them. I fear he may labor too much. He has had callers all day and been very cheerful. Edson and Emma called in the evening. We had a pleasant chat. My husband took movements. I also took movements.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 33)
Thursday, April 24, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
We rested quite well through the night until, as it grew near morning, my husband awoke in pain. His head pained him severely. We united in prayer together, with suppressed voices. We looked to the Lord in faith for relief. For about one hour the pain was eased and my husband fell asleep. How grateful we felt for the kind heavenly Father to listen to our prayers and relieve our distresses. We felt to praise God that He was to us a present help in every time of need. We received an excellent letter from Brother Cornell, of the good work that has been done in Woodland.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 34)
My husband feels feeble. His head troubles him. He has spasms of pain. We had a praying season and we earnestly supplicated the Lord in my husband’s behalf. He feels the peace of God in answer to prayer. He is very nervous. I worked over his head for some time, bathing and rubbing it and combing his hair. This gives him relief. He took a foot bath in bed. He felt a little better after he had eaten.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 35)
Mrs. Matthews and her daughter Nellie came last night. A lady came today, also a blind man. Emma White took electric bath. She is not well. We fear in her case. Rode down street with Brethren Abbey and Kellogg. Purchased hair cloth and dress lining at Brother Salisbury’s. Met Brother Ginley at Brother Abbey’s. Read forty pages of testimony for the Institute. Edson walked with me up to Brother Abbey’s; talked of Emma going with us to the mountains. He thought not best for her to go.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 36)
Friday, April 25, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
The Lord gave us good rest and sleep during the night. It is snowing furiously. Had some talk with Brother Abbey. Took breakfast. Had prayers. Soothed my husband’s head about half an hour. He is quite weak, yet cheerful. Wrote two pages of note paper to Brother Ferguson. Wrote two pages of note paper to Brother Loughborough, giving an account of my husband’s illness. My husband and myself took bath. Lay down to rest; could not sleep. My husband had a short nap. Brother Hutchins called. We told them to come to the Institute and take treatment free of charge.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 37)
In the evening we went to brother Gaskill’s for the purpose of having a season of prayer. We had anointed my husband’s afflicted arm and it had been nearly restored as good as the other. The stomach and bowels seemed lifeless and we anointed them and prayed earnestly to God for His power to restore these organs to their healthy action. The sweet Spirit of the Lord rested upon us. We had a precious season. We had the assurance that God would work in our behalf and give us complete victory. We feel thankful that we have a God to whom we can apply in our necessity. I spoke to the patients in the parlor from these words of Christ: “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest,” etc. [Matthew 11:28.] I had freedom in speaking.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 38)
Sabbath, April 26, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
Not stormy, but cloudy. My husband slept well the last part of the night. He felt quite bright in the morning. We had a very precious season of prayer together. My husband felt the sensible presence and power of God in such a degree as nearly to prostrate him. He was very cheerful and happy with the assurance of the Spirit of God that our prayers had been accepted of God.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 39)
In the forenoon Brother Kellogg and myself visited Brother Abbey. He is under the most powerful temptations of Satan. We sought to speak to him words of encouragement and to lead him to look up. We prayed earnestly for him and Brother Abbey prayed for himself. We left feeling that our visit had not been altogether in vain.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 40)
In the afternoon we rode out with our children, Edson and Emma. My husband talked considerably to them in a kind manner. My husband endured the ride well. After he returned he talked with Addie Chamberlain quite a length of time. He talked with several. I feared that he was exerting himself too much in talking. Brother Ings called. I cautioned my husband in regard to talking so much.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 41)
Sunday, April 27, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is a very pleasant day, which will be highly prized by the patients. My husband slept nine hours. He felt quite well in the morning, but we were all imprudent in bringing little matters before him which required the exercise of thought. We rode out with my husband. Brother Smith accompanied us. We talked of the goodness of God in answer to our prayers. We prepared matter for Instructor. My husband rode out with Sisters Hall and Van Horn. He came back very feeble. We had fears for him. We prayed over him and gave fomentations. He was relieved, but he was very bad for some time. He has not been able to exercise his mind or his body, because of his great weakness of body.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 42)
We spend much of our time in prayer. At night and all times of the day we call upon God. He is our Rock and Fortress; He is our Helper and our God. We flee to God, for He is our Tower of strength.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 43)
Monday, April 28, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
My husband is very feeble, yet we put our trust in God. We prayed for him in the night for about one hour. The Lord heard. His presence was granted us. Emma rode out with us. My husband enjoyed his riding very much.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 44)
Tuesday, April 29, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is very pleasant this morning. We rode out quite a distance. Emma took treatment in the afternoon. She rode out with us. In forenoon my husband took sun bath, which he enjoyed very much. In afternoon Emma White rode out with us. After we returned we gathered dandelion greens. We returned to our old home at Brother Abbey’s to stay one night, that we might have a better opportunity for prayer. We walked down into the hollow east of house and cried earnestly to God for health, and [for] His Spirit that we might work in the cause of God. We felt blessed and had the assurance of His Holy Spirit. We believe that God is working for us and that He will restore my husband fully to health.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 45)
Wednesday, April 30, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
We awoke with feelings of gratitude to God for His great mercy and blessing to us. We had good rest in sleep. We read chapter in Bible and had a very sweet praying season. We rode out in the morning to the office. I rode down with Brother Gaskill to purchase some necessary things. Took dinner at Brother Abbey’s. My husband and myself walked to the little hollow east of our house and had a praying season together. The Lord met with us and blessed us with a rich outpouring of His Spirit. We feel deeply the need of strength from God that we may act a part in the great work for these last days. There seem to be so few who know how to bear the burdens and work that so much need to be borne in leading out in this work. We want strength and grace to do the will and work of God.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 46)
We rode down to the city. Sister Hall and myself traded some. We then rode out about five miles with Beckie Winslow.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 47)
We had a very sweet season of prayer before retiring to rest. Our souls have this day been in a special manner drawn out after God. We hunger and thirst for righteousness.
(2LtMs, Ms 6, 1873, 48)
Ms 7, 1873
Diary, May 1873 NP May 1 - May 31, 1873 Portions of this manuscript are published in 3SM 264; 4MR 436; 2Bio 382. Thursday, May 1, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
We awoke with feelings of gratitude to God that we have rested well during the night with the exception of one nervous sensation so much to be dreaded. It is a very rough, cloudy morning. Edson and Willie gave their father movements. I had a talk with Brother Abbey.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 1)
Brother Kellogg called. I gave my husband treatment. His dinner hurt him. He was compelled to throw it up. Brother Moss called. Brother Belden called. Brother Harmon Lindsay called. He has just returned from New York.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 2)
We had a very impressive season of prayer. The Lord seemed very near. We could rejoice in His presence. We returned to Health Institute. We had an interview with physicians in reception room. My husband talked in regard to the principles being carried out in the setting of the tables, and in eating salt, and in a variety of dishes upon the table. We must keep close. All connected with the Health Institute should work in accordance with their ideas of health and not to please or gratify the appetite. Salt should not come upon the table unless called for. Excellent remarks were made in reference to the greatness of the work and the harmony that should exist with all in our work.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 3)
Friday, May 2, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
Remarks made Thursday night were not well received by Dr. Ginley, although no special reference was made to him. It was changeable weather. I walked to the office and engaged in writing on my book of Spirit of Prophecy. I copied a few pages of my writing. I rode out with my husband.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 4)
I am sorry to say there was trouble with the doctors. Brother Ginley was under strong temptation. He has much murmuring and grumbling that only makes himself unhappy. He imagines he has cause for trial when he has nothing to be dissatisfied or tried with.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 5)
My husband had quite an ill turn. In the afternoon we rode out. Sisters Chamberlain and Sampson rode out with us. The prospect of rain prevented our riding far. We finally called at Brother Abbey’s and visited and conversed in regard to eating, and in reference to the physicians of the Health Institute. Our interview was profitable, we think, to all. We took a short ride after the rain ceased. We had our season of prayer in the little consecrated spot east of our house where we resort for prayer. We had an interesting season at the commencement of the Sabbath.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 6)
Sabbath, May 3, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is a pleasant day, but cool. My husband and myself did not attend meeting in the forenoon. He is feeling quite feeble. We decided to rest in forenoon and go out in the afternoon to attend meeting. I tried to write. We had a season of prayer east of our house. My husband prayed earnestly in the chamber of our house. I wrote several pages.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 7)
We rode to the meetinghouse. My husband spoke to the point in regard to his late stroke of paralysis that he considered the rod of God. He had been greatly blessed, but he had felt in his trials that it was not just for him to bear the burdens he had, and he had talked over his troubles and trials altogether too much. He was seeing that he had erred in this respect, and he was desirous to have health now that he might act a part in the advancement of the work till the warfare was ended and he fall at his post.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 8)
I followed my husband, speaking to the church in regard to the danger of their being selfish and not manifesting an interest for the unfortunate, the blind, the lame and afflicted, the widow and the fatherless. I spoke of the great love of Christ for suffering humanity, the cases of His healing the blind and the daughter of the Syrophenician woman in answer to the earnest, humble supplication of her afflicted mother. We felt deeply the necessity of greater missionary effort exerted right at home in their families, in their neighborhoods, caring for the afflicted, the suffering, and discouraged. After we returned home I wrote some. Had season of prayer in the little valley east of our house. After having prayers with the family, we called at the Gaskill’s and at the Health Institute. Met Brother Belden with mail.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 9)
Sunday, May 4, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
My husband went to the office early to attend their season of prayer. He talked with the office hands. Set things in order there. He worked to the very best of advantage for the interest of the association. After dinner he met the directors and had a second meeting with physicians and helpers. He advised and counseled and laid down a foundation of principles for them to work upon. This meeting was in the order of God, but my husband was very weary.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 10)
Sister Hall and myself arranged our goods for safe keeping when we should leave.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 11)
Monday, May 5, 1873
My husband was not well through the night. We sat up until half past ten o’clock. We dressed at one. My husband took emetic. We had a season of prayer and retired twenty-five minutes before four o’clock. Slept until morning.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 12)
We left Battle Creek but we were detained so that we did not get started on our journey until nearly eleven o’clock. We rode towards Bellview ten miles. The ride we all three enjoyed, for Sister Hall accompanied us. At one o’clock we stopped by the roadside to rest and feed our horses and eat our dinner. We built a fire. We enjoyed our dinner very much. We then took into consideration whether we should go on to Charlotte or return to Battle Creek. If we went on we should not get to Charlotte until ten o’clock at night. We feared this would be too much for James. We decided to return the ten miles. Met Eli Glover and his wife. Talked with him a short time. I searched through the office for my writings. I wrote about six pages. Retired at half-past eleven.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 13)
Tuesday, May 6, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
We have a beautiful morning. We had prayers and then set about the duties of the day. The directors and the trustees rode out to the lake to consult and pray over matters. We conversed over important matters and came to good conclusions. After talking a while we spread out our food upon the tablecloths upon the ground. We placed upon the cloth our good, hygienic food and we enjoyed our food much.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 14)
We had much conversation after dinner in regard to the success of the work and the extended efforts we should make. We had a free, profitable talk and then we bowed before God and had a season of prayer.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 15)
I spent the time from morning until eleven o’clock writing. We returned from the lake. Selected cloth at Salisbury’s for James a coat. Brother Butler is here and went to the lake with us. He has come in a good time. We have many important matters to settle in regard to the location for school buildings, the location of the Institute. We are contemplating the fairground. It is a most desirable place for buildings for school and institute. Dr. Ginley is rebelling. Poor man, he does not know what he is about. May God pity him.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 16)
Wednesday, May 7, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is windy and cloudy. My husband rested well during the night. Conversed and read letters to my husband and to Brother Butler. Spent most of the day writing in the office. Called into the office Brother Belden and Warren Batchellor. Brother Butler talked with them in regard to the failure to put his appointment in the Review, which must disappoint the people. He said his appointment was not put in the Review early enough. He then wrote a letter stating that he need not put in the appointment for there would not be time for the appointment to be circulated. Brother Smith carelessly passed the appointment in but did not read the letter. Warren brought in Charlie Jones’ specimen book of printing, and while the Review was waiting for Uriah’s copy he was examining the book of specimens, which delayed the press. Brother Smith then rode out with my husband and they had to wait for copy. It was stated that such things occurring are against the rules of the office.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 17)
I then related some things that had been shown me in reference to the workmen in the office. I spoke to Brother Smith in particular, that his position was of that character to encourage a loose state of things in the office. God reproved wrongs there and negligent work. Unfaithfulness has existed to a wonderful degree. We tried to set before them that the state of the office affected the cause at large. God would not bless those in the office unless they were consecrated to the work and were doing their work from an unselfish, high standpoint. Brother Butler stayed through the night at Brother Abbey’s. He does not take a right position in regard to Ransom’s course during the winter. His conversation is not pleasing upon this subject.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 18)
Thursday, May 8, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It was raining. We looked over our goods in the house and made a distribution of some of them to Sister Welch, Brother Belden, Elsa Howe, Sister Brigham, and others. Brother Howe was here. We sent the things we could spare to Sister Brigham. Her husband is a paralytic. She has two orphan children to care for. Gave Brother Howe pants and coats. There are still many things to be disposed of. We shall give away much that we have. Brother Butler is seeking to do what he can to right up things in Battle Creek. Brother Butler and my husband had [a] conversation, not very pleasant, in reference to matters in the office. Brother Butler is in the dark. He is not viewing matters correctly.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 19)
Friday, May 9, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
We thought we would work to help matters from getting into a tangle. We talked with those in the counting [?] room and with different ones in the office. Talked with Brother and Sister Lockwood. It is evident that he has been wonderfully deceived by Satan. He has taken burdens God or his brethren did not lay upon him, and Brother Butler, we fear, has given him influence. There was a fearful state of things here when we came. We had a meeting in the evening with brother and Sister Lockwood, Brother Butler, and the directors. Brother Butler took a firm, unyielding stand, contrary to our views of the condition of things. He was very persistent. I talked considerable in regard to the unfeeling course which had been pursued toward Brother Belden by those in the office. He was weighed down with trouble and distress, but there seemed to be no hearts to feel or to pity.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 20)
Sabbath, May 10, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
I decided to attend meetings. I spoke in the forenoon in regard to the duty of watchmen being awake, and if they saw the sword coming to warn the people. I felt deeply. My husband talked a short time.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 21)
We talked in the afternoon, my husband a part of the time and I a part of the time. It was a solemn meeting. I told them that the mother of the orphan children of Brother Belden worked with her hands at housework to earn money to give Brother Bates to carry the message to Waitsfield, Vermont. Brother Lockwood’s family and Sister Butler received the Sabbath from Brother Bates, yet Brother Lockwood has stated that he hated Brother Belden. Brother Lockwood made confession. Brother Butler confessed some things. Our meeting was good. My husband went too far; he labored too hard and was feeble.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 22)
A meeting of the brethren was called in the evening, but Brother Butler’s position was such that it greatly burdened my husband. Brother Butler was in the dark. He had a spirit of his own, unyielding and stubborn. My husband and myself retired to bed grieved and distressed.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 23)
Sunday, May 11, 1873
In the morning Brother Ings came; confessed that his feelings had not been right. He had sustained Brother Lockwood. Sister Anna Rasmussen had sustained Brother Lockwood. She acknowledged she had been wrong in doing so.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 24)
My husband slept but little last night. Brother Kellogg was up with him, giving him treatment, about three hours. Sister Kingsley called to help me sew. Could not carry on the work without us. We positively must have rest. My husband is in danger of his life every hour he remains in Battle Creek.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 25)
We left Battle Creek for Potterville to seek retirement. We called at Institute and office on our way, which delayed us. The recent rains made the going rather bad in some places and bettered it where it was sandy. We found it cool riding. At noon built a fire and took our dinner by the roadside. We enjoyed the relief of riding on our journey.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 26)
My husband endured the journey well. The faithful old horses, nineteen years old, were true as steel. We arrived at Roberts’ about sunset. We were cordially welcomed and everything was done for our comfort that could be. We walked out in the garden. Went to the grove and had a season of prayer. We felt rather dizzy from riding, although we walked some for exercise on the way.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 27)
Monday, May 12, 1873 [Potterville, Michigan,]
We enjoyed our retired retreat. We feel the effects of our long ride, but we all are as well as could be expected. We visited the grove three times for prayer. We had freedom in seeking the Lord. We rode out with our carriage to Potterville. We wrote letters to Battle Creek. I wrote to Brother Butler that we could not attend the camp meetings. I would not trust my sick in connection with him; he manifested so little judgment to press my husband with his independent spirit in his sickness and his great feebleness. We received a letter from Brother Butler that night, making confession of his wrong. He seemed to be greatly humbled. My husband does not rest nights. He seems to have much trouble with his stomach.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 28)
Tuesday, May 13, 1873 [Potterville,]
It is very cold. After our breakfast and season of prayer in the family we went to the beech grove and prayed earnestly to God for help and strength, especially that He would give my husband strength to do something in His cause. When we returned to the house we found Brother Butler and Lindsay. They had come on a special errand to relieve the mind of my husband if possible. Brother Butler confessed his wrong with deep humility of spirit. They could stay but a short time. We repaired to the grove and had a precious season of prayer, of weeping before the Lord and pleading with Him for restoration to health. We then had the horses harnessed and drove to the depot to take our brethren to the train. As we returned my husband complained of being faint. After he returned he had a slight shock of paralysis. I immediately engaged in prayer and he was relieved, but he seemed to feel discouraged somewhat at his own feeble state. We went to the grove and had a special season of prayer.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 29)
We pitched our tent. We all worked quite hard to get the tent in running order. We had it nicely pitched in Brother Sawyer’s orchard. Brother Sawyer laid a plank floor. We carpeted it and Brother Sawyer got a little stove to put into it. Sister Sawyer brought in a bedstead, made the bed, had a washstand, looking glass, chairs. Everything very convenient. They took great pains to make us at home. We went to Charlotte. Gathered cowslips on our return from Charlotte.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 30)
Wednesday, May 14, 1873 [Potterville,]
It was very cold for May. We were very busy preparing the tent to be comfortable. We had our seasons of prayer in the back woods and we felt the evidence that God would work in our behalf. We received much comfort in these seasons of communion with God.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 31)
I wrote a long letter to Brother Smith. We had our tent nicely arranged to write in. I wrote several letters—one to Elder Loughborough, California. We received letters from several at Battle Creek—Sister May Gaskill, Brother Harmon Lindsay, Brother Butler. Very good letters. We received a letter from Uriah. He feels that he is all right. He has had no trouble. He will be right enough if others would cease their efforts to stir up.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 32)
Thursday, May 15, 1873 [Potterville,]
We had a very heavy frost. My husband rested a portion of the night. It has been a day of sadness and gloom. The enemy has tempted us strongly. May God help us and deliver us from this terrible pressure. Wrote to Brother Butler in regard to my husband’s discouragements. It troubles him that his brethren do not have the seasons of prayer for him and feel the burden he has felt for them. As he thinks he must wait the slow process of nature and rest, [and] before he recovers he [must] be useless to the cause, it makes him despond. We rode horseback to Potterville. We found comfort in prayer. My husband was very busy preparing boards for the front of the tent, to put the stovepipe through.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 33)
Friday, May 16, 1873
We decided to go to Battle Creek. We think they need help. It is a beautiful day. We were surprised to meet Brethren Butler and Kellogg. They came to pray for my husband. We had a precious season of prayer. The heavens seemed to be opened before us. We had the assurance of the presence of God and of His willingness to restore my husband to health. Brother Butler wept and confessed his errors. He rejoiced in God. We had a very free, melting time. We then started on our journey. Stopped a short time in Charlotte. The roads were greatly improved. We took our dinner by the wayside. Fed our faithful horses. We had a season of prayer after taking our refreshments. We arrived at our home about half an hour before sunset. We had endured the journey well.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 34)
Sabbath, May 17, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
We felt quite weary. We rode out a few miles in the oak grove. Rested about one hour. We slept some. We arranged a shawl to protect our heads from the scorching rays of the sun. We had a season of prayer before returning home.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 35)
In the afternoon we went to the meeting. My husband talked quite lengthy at the time. I spoke at length in regard to the case of Brother Smith. Read letters that had been written to him. I then referred to the travels of the children of Israel, their rebellion, and the visitation of God because of their sins; God designed that there should be men to reprove sin and wrong or His people would become careless and corrupt their ways before Him; the necessity of men being awake and not stupid or asleep in regard to the errors and sins existing among them.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 36)
Our meeting was most solemn. I read the letter written to Potterville to him [Brother Smith], which had been read to him but produced no change in him. He was summoned by all the efforts that could be made for him. This letter was of the deepest interest and placed Brother Smith in his true position before the people. This meeting will prove the greatest blessing to the church, for proof was produced from the Bible that God would have reproof to exist in the church. He had always had those who would stand in defense of the right, to oppose wrong and repress sin and corruption.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 37)
Sunday, May 18, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
My husband rested well during the night. We read over his address to the General Conference and revised it for publication. The article was long and it was quite a tax upon my husband. We tried horseback riding considerably. My husband enjoys it. We had a praying season. We had an interview with Brethren Root and King. We met together at six to have a praying season for my husband. We had a precious season. Sister Jenny Rogers called to see us.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 38)
Monday, May 19, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is cloudy. We rode horseback to see Sister Fletcher Byington. My husband made her a present of fifteen dollars, as she settled a note of her husband’s. We had pleasant conversation with her. We rode to Salisbury’s; purchased a pair of gloves. Returned to office. Our brethren had an interview with Brother Smith. He is softened a little but has not changed much. He is very dark. My husband took treatment, took sitz bath. We went to the Institute to hear Mrs. Hutchinson and her son sing. They are very sweet singers. The tunes were simple and pathetic. We are much interested in this family.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 39)
Tuesday, May 20, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
My husband rested well through the night. Read to him my article for Reformer. It was too great a tax upon him before taking his breakfast. He suffered all through the day as the result. Went to the office. Had a consultation with committee in regard to important matters. Talked with Trustees in reference to Warren and Wilbur Whiting, who urged Brother Smith to preside as president of their Literary Society, thus showing disrespect for the Conference Committee, who had been laboring with him, and came to the painful point of discharging Uriah from the office until he could see his mistakes and change his course of operation. The decision was made to suspend Wilbur and Warren until they had done all they could to counteract this course. We had an interesting season of prayer in the grass plot east of our house.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 40)
Wednesday, May 21, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is a beautiful day. Prepared copy for Reformer. Rode out to make some purchases in the city. Rode out with Mrs. Hutchinson and her son, Frederick, the noted singers, who have traveled from Maine to Minnesota in their own carriage three times. We rode round the fairground. Had interesting conversation. At six o’clock we had our season of prayer in the little green plot, which seems to be consecrated as our sanctuary where we hold communion with God. Our brethren met with us and we enjoyed [a] precious season of prayer together.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 41)
Thursday, May 22, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is a beautiful day. We rode out about three miles to a grove and there prepared a shade and rested and sunned our feet. Talked over our plans and prospects. Sister Hall was with us. Two families have come from the State of Maine. They are on their way to California for their health—Brother and Sister Howard, her mother and brother and her brother’s wife. Spent some time in the dentist’s office. Mr. Beebe has been making me a set of teeth.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 42)
Friday, May 23, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is a beautiful day. My husband is feeling better today. We rode out about two miles with brother Merritt Kellogg and his brother John, to converse in regard to publications. Brother John Kellogg is to go into the Health Institute. We made a shelter with a shawl and then had a pleasant interview concerning the work expected of Brother Kellogg. We had a precious season of prayer.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 43)
We took dinner at the Health Institute. Rode out in the carriage with my husband in the afternoon. We met Sister Atwood with Sister Welch. Had a very little conversation. Met Sister Austin from Wisconsin. She has come for treatment at Health Institute. Brother and Sister Satterly have come from New York to spend the summer in Wisconsin. They stay over the Sabbath. Spent some time having the dentist fit my new teeth he has been making.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 44)
Sabbath, May 24, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is a beautiful day. We took a short ride. The air seems invigorating. We decided to attend meeting. My husband talked part of the time and myself the remaining time left me. His text was, “Strive to enter in at the strait gate: for many, I say unto you, will seek to enter in, and shall not be able.”Luke 13:24. My husband spoke with freedom and strength. The Lord sustained him. I followed—talked twenty minutes. Some remarks were made in reference to some who desired baptism.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 45)
In the afternoon we both, my husband and myself, attended meeting. Both spoke. My husband felt deeply and spoke with fervor and the Spirit of God. His strength is indeed given him of God in answer to the earnest prayers that have been offered for him. The Lord gave me a measure of freedom in speaking to the people. We then spent one hour in conference meeting. Mr. Beebe, the dentist that has been preparing my teeth, spoke well. Said he had been an infidel, made so by the orthodox doctrine of an eternal burning hell. He stated that through the doctrines preached by Seventh-day Adventists he was now a believer in the historic record of the Bible. Many excellent testimonies were borne directly after the meeting.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 46)
All who desired were requested to meet at our usual season of prayer at our house. We had a large room well filled. The Lord indeed met with us. His power and Spirit in answer to prayer rested upon us. It has been a good day—a day of advance for God’s people.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 47)
Sunday, May 25, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is a beautiful day. I am feeling some anxiety to prepare for journeying. My husband rested well through the night. After a season of prayer he met with them in the office at their season of prayer. They had a very solemn season. He then met with them in counsel and talked to them in an earnest, spirited manner. The Lord seemed to indite what he said.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 48)
I was gathering my hands to help me prepare my things ready for a journey. We meet at Sister Gaskill’s. Everything moved off without confusion. We took dinner at Sister Gaskill’s.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 49)
My husband called the directors, physicians, and all the helpers together and talked with them some time upon very important matters, especially in regard to all cultivating decorum and having a proper Bible dignity in accordance with the Health Institute. He spoke of the publication of books. These remarks were timely. He rode out with Brother Kellogg and had conversation with them and had a very excellent season of prayer in the oak grove.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 50)
We met in the grass plot at six and had a precious season of prayer. The Lord is indeed raising up my husband and fitting him for the work. Oh, we will praise the Lord for His matchless mercy and goodness to us who are so unworthy. I took general bath. Have a severe cold and hoarseness.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 51)
Monday, May 26, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It rained during the night. It is cloudy this morning, but not stormy. My husband rested well during the night. It was a very pleasant day, rather warm. We met at Brother Gaskill’s to sew and prepare us for journeying. Rode to office. Looked over proof sheet for Reformer. My husband remains quite well—is improving. Mr. Walling came. Rode up to graveyard. Had a sing at Edson’s with Brother Kellogg and John. We had our prayer meeting as usual at the east of our house. Returned to Edson’s. We had another sing. We returned to the Health Institute. James took movements. Mr. Walling had a bath.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 52)
Tuesday, May 27, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is a beautiful day. My husband rested well during the night. We took breakfast at Edson’s with our children and Mr. Walling. We purchased for Edson a suit of clothes, for which we paid $26. We prepared our dinner and rode out to the lake and ate our dinner and visited with Mr. Walling. We returned for him to take the cars.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 53)
We called upon Stephen Belden. His children go to Brother Sawyer’s today. Charlotte is raving over the children’s going to Potterville. We took the children in our carriage to the depot. I wrote a few lines to Brother Sawyer. I felt sad and cried—could not refrain from tears as I thought of the sad state of that family. I tarried a short time at Brother Gaskill’s.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 54)
Attended the meeting in the church to consider the subject of baptism. Our meeting was interesting. I proposed that there should be no extra cooking, for these seasons were made very wearisome because of the taxation of preparing a variety of food and transporting many dishes to set the table. I referred to Christ feeding the multitude, seating them upon the ground. I spoke upon baptism. My husband spoke upon having only apples and bread. All agreed with this heartily. If the feeble patients need hot gruel this can be easily provided. All seemed to be pleased with the meeting.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 55)
Wednesday, May 28, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
My husband was ill in the night. I prayed for him. Got up twice and waited upon him. I tried by friction to relieve his distress, praying the Lord to help him in his distress and give him rest in sleep. In the morning my husband felt bad. He talked out his bad feelings. I was distressed. He did not understand things correctly. He took things for granted that there was, I think, not a correct foundation for.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 56)
We met a Mr. Skinner and several honorable ones of the city and talked in regard to a school being erected by our people. The fairground is a desirable location, and if everything seems clear we think we shall secure it. The city dignitaries are anxious for a college to be built in Battle Creek.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 57)
I had conversation with Sister Anderson in regard to baptism. She is decided to go forward in this ordinance. She wished to return to us money she received before she embraced the truth for taking care of Father White. I refused to receive it. She earned her money. I advised her to keep her money to invest in the cause of God as she had opportunity.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 58)
Thursday, May 29, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
My husband slept at our late home. I remained at the Health Institute. He took breakfast at the Institute. I fear my husband views things in a false light. Sister Lucinda Hall was taken quite sick. We had her taken home and I gave her a thorough fomentation. She seemed to have a congestive chill. She was relieved and went with us to the lake. We had a meeting in the forenoon and singing. My husband spoke in the forenoon, upon the subject of baptism. We then took our simple meal of graham bread and apples with great satisfaction.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 59)
After dinner I was called upon to take the stand. I spoke upon the glory of God in nature. I had some freedom in speaking. We then examined candidates for baptism and repaired to the beautiful lake [where] my husband performed the rite of baptism for seventeen candidates. It was a most interesting scene. We never witnessed a baptismal scene of greater interest and calm composure.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 60)
After we returned from the water we again assembled at the stand. I spoke to the people upon faith and feeling—that faith and feeling were frequently confounded. Faith and feeling are as distinct as the east is from the west. Our meeting closed in good order. The weather had been beautiful. Clouds gathered in the heavens, threatening to pour out rain upon us. But we were all safely at home before the rain fell much. Sister Hall and myself slept at the Institute. My husband and Brother Kellogg at the house. We wished to take treatment.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 61)
Friday, May 30, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It has been a day of sadness, inexpressible sadness. My faith, hope, and courage are almost gone. I walked up in the grove to pray. My heart is exceedingly heavy. I rested at the Health Institute. I ate nothing through the day. Brother Kellogg talked with me.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 62)
Sabbath, May 31, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
My husband spoke to the church with freedom. He attended the conference meeting in afternoon. Brother Waggoner struck a wrong chord. Made a jar in the meeting. This is the saddest day I ever experienced. I have written twenty-two pages of matter in my copy book. My husband called, conversed some time—seemed cheerful. Said he had the blessing of God in speaking. Brother Kellogg called and conversed some time. I am in great perplexity of mind. I dare not trace the conflicting feelings that agitate my mind.
(2LtMs, Ms 7, 1873, 63)
Ms 8, 1873
Diary, June 1873 NP June 1 - June 30, 1873 Portions of this manuscript are published in 3SM 264; 3MR 159-160; 11MR 122-124; 2Bio 383-384. Sunday, June 1, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
I am sick. I have no appetite. I have but little courage. My husband desired a few to go to a grove about two miles and converse and pray, hoping to gain light and relief from perplexity. This meeting was not agreeable to me and gave me no relief. I must think that my work is about done. I seem to be hedged in on every side. I long for light and freedom, but it seems a great way off. My brethren cannot help me, because they don’t know how. God alone can help me. My husband is in great distress of mind. We arose at twelve o’clock. I read [a] testimony given [in] 1865. We retired at three in the morning.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 1)
Monday, June 2, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
We had a painful interview at the office. I felt compelled to express my true convictions and the position my husband should occupy as a counsellor. How much was comprehended in being a counsellor—that he must shun many burdens that he too readily accepted. I stated to the brethren that I must go to bear my testimony to the Iowa camp meeting. My husband said that he should go with me.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 2)
Tuesday, June 3, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
Sister Hall and myself took bath at Institute. My husband seems relieved. We had a praying season on the grass plot east of our house. Sister Sawyer came from Potterville in the evening.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 3)
Wednesday, June 4, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
I decided that I must go to the camp meeting and made preparations accordingly. In the morning my husband and myself had a very pleasant interview. We decided to renew our covenant with God and with each other, to be a help and blessing to each other, to show greater respect and love for each other, and to build each other up in the work of God and never weaken each other’s hands. Mr. Walling came and pressed us to leave upon the night train, but we were not prepared to go. We told him to go on and we would follow. He left on the night train.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 4)
Thursday, June 5, 1873
My husband had an ill turn. We had a season of prayer in our chamber. We called the brethren together and had a season of prayer for more clear understanding of duty. I felt that it was my duty to go to Iowa camp meeting. We had two praying seasons. We finally decided to go on the morning train. We had to make hasty preparations. We had ample time to get to the cars. We waited three-quarters of an hour for the western train. My husband improved in health and spirits as we journeyed. We took sleeping cars at Chicago.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 5)
Friday, June 6, 1873 [Washington, Iowa,]
We all rested well during the night. We had a very pleasant journey. Arrived at Washington about eleven o’clock. We found teams there which took us to the campground. Brother Butler was preaching to the people. After meeting we took some refreshments and returned to our home. Took bath, rested, and returned to the evening meeting. My husband spoke with freedom. Brother Morrison spoke in afternoon.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 6)
Sabbath, June 7, 1873 [Washington, Iowa,]
Brother Butler spoke in forenoon. We attended meeting. Took no part till afternoon. I spoke from this text, “Strive to enter in at the strait gate,” etc. [Luke 13:24.] I had freedom. I then called for those who desired to be Christians and those who were backsliders to come forward and show their desire, and we would pray for them. Between thirty and forty responded—middle-aged people and youth. There seemed to be really earnest seekers for salvation. I entreated the people by earnest appeals to come to Christ. We then stepped from the stand and prayed for those who had come forward. Brother Nicola, Brother Butler, and myself prayed. It was an interesting occasion.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 7)
Meetings were held in tents for the benefit especially of those seeking salvation. I spoke also in the evening to [a] large congregation upon the temptations of Christ in the wilderness. I have labored earnestly and was considerably wearied.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 8)
Sunday, June 8, 1873 [Washington, Iowa,]
We rested well during the night. Brother Butler spoke with great freedom nearly three hours upon the subject of schools and the cause being extended and expanded. We do not keep pace with the providence of God. My husband spoke in forenoon from these words: “But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear.”1 Peter 3:15.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 9)
I spoke in the afternoon from the last verses of Matthew 6. I spoke upon God in nature. I had an attentive audience. My husband spoke at five o’clock, about thirty minutes. There were about two hundred from Sigourney that left on the six o’clock train. I spoke in the evening. There was some fear of rain, which led me to cut short my speaking.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 10)
Monday, June 9, 1873 [Washington, Iowa,]
No rain yet. We went upon the ground early. Brother Butler was talking to the people. In the forenoon my husband talked quite profitably on the progress of the cause of present truth. He had considerable freedom. I spoke in the afternoon from 2 Peter. I had freedom in talking. After I had spoken one hour I invited those who wished to be Christians to come forward. Between thirty and forty came forward quietly without excitement and occupied the front seats. I spoke with them in regard to making an entire surrender to God. We had a praying season for those who came forward. We had a very precious season of prayer. Those who wished baptism were requested to signify it by rising. Quite a number arose. The candidates were then examined and afterward repaired to the water and Brother Butler buried twenty-five beneath the water. It was a very interesting occasion.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 11)
Tuesday, June 10, 1873 [Washington, Iowa,]
It is pleasant. My husband rested well during the night. We went early upon the ground. We had a closing meeting of deep interest. My husband addressed the people and gave important testimony in favor of Health Institute and Association. I then bade them farewell with these words of warning, to watch as they returned home and not leave Jesus behind as did Joseph and Mary when they returned from Jerusalem. There was much tenderness of feeling in the congregation. We then bade them all farewell and returned to our home to rest. In the afternoon we rode down again upon the ground to see Brother Henry Nicola. Brother and Sister Matthews called on us. Brother Matthews is in a critical condition of health. He has lost his voice. They were anxious to go to Health Institute but were unable to pay for treatment. We consulted Brother Henry Nicola in regard to the case.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 12)
Wednesday, June 11, 1873 [Washington, Iowa,]
It is a beautiful day. My husband and myself feel much worn from our labors during the camp meeting. Sister Nicola is here at Brother Wheeler’s, waiting for her husband to get ready to return home. We walked out in the orchard and had a season of prayer. We feel very anxious to know our duty. We do not want to make any wrong moves. We need sanctified judgment and heavenly wisdom to move in the counsel of God. We cry unto God for light and grace. We must have help from God or we perish. Our earnest cry is for the direction of God’s Holy Spirit. We dare not move in any direction without clear light. Esther Kilgore is doing the work this week.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 13)
Thursday, June 12, 1873 [Washington, Iowa,]
It is a beautiful day. My husband rested very well through the night. He had an ill turn. I arose and bowed before God in prayer that He would relieve him from distress and give him quiet rest. He slept well the remainder of the night. My husband is directing about the farm. The rain has been so abundant that the ground could not be worked. Gave my husband a pack. After he came out, took one myself. We then took sun bath. Both felt better in the afternoon for this treatment. My husband worked out most of the day.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 14)
A gentleman by the name of Black came for books to read upon present truth. Lent him some. He is eighty years old. He attended the camp meeting; walked two miles and back from the meeting. We had our season of prayer at six o’clock in the orchard. We felt some freedom in drawing near to God. Esther gave me movements. Willie gave his father movements. Brother and Sister Nicola left during the afternoon for their home.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 15)
Friday, June 13, 1873 [Washington, Iowa,]
It is a beautiful morning. My husband rested quite well through the night. He had one discouraging turn, but fell asleep and rested well. My heart today is unusually depressed. We went out about twelve miles to Brother Nicola’s. The road was bad. We did not get there until they were all abed. They received us with cheerfulness and soon had us all comfortably cared for for the night.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 16)
Saturday, June 14, 1873 [Washington, Iowa,]
It is a beautiful day. My husband had a very bad night. Willie waited upon him and neither obtained much rest till after midnight. My husband was much discouraged and sick all day. I was sick and we were both very desponding. Neither of us attended meeting.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 17)
Sunday, June 15, 1873 [Washington, Iowa,]
My husband was much troubled in mind and was far from being at rest. We arose at three o’clock in the morning. We talked, conversed together some time. We prayed in brokenness of spirit to the Lord for His dear Son’s sake to deliver us from Satan’s buffetings. We experienced some relief.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 18)
We took an early breakfast and started homeward. The air seemed fresh and invigorating. There was a beautiful rainbow and we had a soft shower while the sun was shining in the heavens. We had a very precious season of prayer under a large tree on our farm. We regret that there is no favorable place for retirement and prayer on our farm. We shall plant trees and make one. We rode out in the evening and went [a] much greater distance than we designed. We did not return home till past nine o’clock.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 19)
Monday, June 16, 1873 [Washington, Iowa,]
We have another beautiful morning. The atmosphere is rather oppressive because of heat. Brethren and sisters met to help mend the old tent, that it may be used this summer. The tent was taken out and spread upon the grass in our front yard and all worked busily at it all day. We went to the city twice; purchased some goods. We received letter from Brother Butler. We received package by express; paid two dollars. We are undecided whether to leave this week for Colorado or remain another week. We had a precious season of prayer and we feel encouraged that the Lord will yet strength us to labor in His cause. My husband had a dream which greatly encouraged him. He is feeling cheerful. Hester gave me movements. Willie gave his father movements.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 20)
Tuesday, June 17, 1873 [Washington, Iowa,]
It is another lovely morning. The birds are singing their morning songs of praise to their Creator. The air is cool as though there had been a shower, but we have seen no rain. I prepared manuscript for Instructor, which occupied my time through the day. At night Esther, my husband, and myself gathered clover tops to dry. We rode out, not knowing whither. We finally came to a crossroad which brought us to our home. We rode about twelve miles. My husband pitched tent in our garden.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 21)
Wednesday, June 18, 1873 [Washington, Iowa,]
We have had a pleasant day, but quite warm. I prepared my matter for Reformer with but little taxation. About noon we rode out to Brother Kilgore’s. We devoted our time to sewing, using Asceneth’s machine. Lay down and rested. My husband is debilitated in consequence of heat. We made him a bed in the clover patch. He wrote some. My husband spent some time writing on our way to Brother Kilgore’s. Received a letter from Oren Jones in regard to building the third office building. My husband dictated an answer. Will wrote for him. We gathered clover as it commenced to grow dark. We returned home after dark.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 22)
Thursday, June 19, 1873 [Washington, Iowa,]
We have a beautiful day. I am sick. Took treatment—pack and sun bath. Brother Adams, his wife, and son’s wife, called. We did not visit with them, for we were sick. Took bath and movements and went to rest.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 23)
Friday, June 20, 1873 [Washington, Iowa,]
It is another nice day. I am still indisposed. Brother Kilgore called. Made a plea for us to speak to the people in his locality Sunday or Sabbath. We were sorry to tell him we were not able. We took treatment. We were sick all day.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 24)
Saturday, June 21, 1873 [Washington, Iowa,]
A beautiful day; rather warm. Took a pack. Felt better. Wrote fifteen pages on sufferings of Christ. I became much interested in my subject. Brother Wheeler, Hester, and Brother Van Ostrand went to the meeting. We had some prospect of rain. Called the family together and read the matter I had written. All seemed interested.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 25)
Sunday, June 22, 1873 [Washington, Iowa,]
We are still writing. Devoted the day to writing. Felt quite weary before night. My husband has been writing on the advancement of the cause. Sister Hall and Willie are interested in packing.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 26)
Monday, June 23, 1873
We are packed for our journey. Sister Kilgore and Mamie came to help us get off in right shape. We feel thankful for their help. Asceneth sent me strawberries. My husband and I had a season of prayer together before taking the cars. We took the cars about six o’clock. We were fortunate in getting a sleeping car. Paid only three dollars for two berths. It was a very warm night. Sister Hall and myself took the upper berth and we could not get sufficient air for comfort. My husband rested well.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 27)
Tuesday, June 24, 1873
We have had a very pleasant day. We see signs of a very powerful storm. We had none of it where we were, but we have come into the section of the storm. The people where this storm came say it rained powerfully from eleven o’clock until three in the morning. The mud and water stood on the tracks in some places several inches deep. They finally ventured upon the track and we passed through mud and water safely.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 28)
We changed cars at Omaha about eleven o’clock. My husband and Sister Hall walked to the office of the general superintendent of the road to get reduction in fare. He was successful in getting off thirty dollars for himself and the same for me. We purchased pass tickets for California. We could not get desirable berths, but we got a small stateroom. My husband came back almost fainting from his walking to the general superintendent’s office. We bathed his head and fanned him and he found relief.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 29)
Wednesday, June 25, 1873
My husband and myself occupied the stateroom. Sister Hall and Willie kept the seats in the car and rested very well. We had no dust. We could not have had a more favorable time for traveling. At Cheyenne we changed cars for Denver. The heat on this last one hundred miles was almost beyond endurance. The blood rushed to my head and my face felt burned. The very air seemed hot, and seemed to burn our flesh. It seemed some like the time that will scorch men with heat. We were one hour behind time. We did not get to Denver till about thirty minutes past seven o’clock. We hired an express wagon and were taken to my niece, Louise Walling’s. We were well received and we were very weary and glad to get to rest.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 30)
Thursday, June 26, 1873 [Denver, Colorado,]
We have all rested well. It has been a cool night. It is a beautiful morning. We walked out to purchase some things, but did not expend anything.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 31)
Friday, June 27, 1873 [Denver,]
Another beautiful day. We walked one mile and back from the city stores three times. We ordered mattresses made of white hair and a couple of pillows. We have much confusion among the children. Cannot write. We purchased cloth and batting for comforts: linen for Willie a coat.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 32)
Sabbath, June 28, 1873 [Denver,]
We have another beautiful day, but quite warm. We took our writing and walked quite a distance to the shade of a tree to find a quiet place to write. We enjoyed the quiet, but the shade was not sufficient to prevent our being burned by the sun. My husband corrected a sermon which has been reported to be put in the Review. We took our simple lunch under the tree. About noon we saw a covered carriage coming towards us. It was Mr. Walling. We decided to start after sundown that night for the mountains. We did not get away from the city until past eight o’clock. We traveled to Golden City and put up at a hotel. We did not get to rest before one o’clock.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 33)
Sunday, June 29, 1873 [Colorado,]
We all rested the few hours of the night after we retired. We were on our way about half past seven. We rode about three miles and stopped for breakfast. We purchased milk and had a very good breakfast. The scenery is very grand. Large mountains of rocks stretching toward heaven, tower one above another. My husband endured the journey well. We took dinner and enjoyed eating in the open air.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 34)
My husband has been wonderfully preserved. We turned out for an ox team and were obliged to go up an embankment. In descending, one of the horses refused to obey the rein. My husband saw that the carriage was tipping over. He jumped out, but was thrown under the wheel and the wheel ran over him. Sister Hall and myself sprang from the carriage to obtain the lines. I looked to see how badly my husband was hurt. He was bruised, but no bones were broken. We felt gratitude to God for his preservation.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 35)
Monday, June 30, 1873 [Walling’s Mills, Colorado,]
Pleasant today. We arrived at the Mills late in the afternoon. Rested well during the night. At our special request we went to the old mill and commenced housekeeping. Mr. Walling and Mr. Laskey accommodated us to many things to make things convenient. We feel deeply grateful for their kindness. We commenced cleaning to get settled. Cleaned two rooms. Tack off a comfort. Mr. Walling came with second load of furniture and things he thought we needed. We have all been very busy and cheerful in our work. We had a praying season in the woods. We prayed earnestly to God to let His blessing rest upon us as we were settling in the mountains that we might have strength and retirement to write.
(2LtMs, Ms 8, 1873, 36)
Ms 9, 1873
Diary, July 1873 NP July 1 - July 31, 1873 Portions of this manuscript are published in 3MR 161; 2Bio 386. Tuesday, July 1, 1873 [Walling’s Mills, Colorado,]
It is stormy. We see from the window it is snowing. There are about two inches of snow and rain upon the piazza. The hills are covered with snow. We are thankful to have a good fire to keep us warm. We cleaned house again thoroughly; cleaned a room for Lucinda Hall. I find it new business to scrub, but I enjoy it. It cleared off beautifully about noon. The clouds lifted from the snowy range and we had a most beautiful view of the mountains, not merely capped with snow but covered completely with snow. Walling called on his way to Central. He seemed to be disturbed. Had trouble with his workmen. He put up his team and stayed with us overnight.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 1)
Wednesday, July 2, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It is very pleasant but rather cool. We have a most beautiful view of the snowy range, which is now not merely capped but covered with snow. Willie went with Walling to Central. My husband made a bedstead. He worked all day very busily. Sister Hall and myself tacked off a comfort. We received a letter from Sister Shaw of Golden, urging us to come and see her and make her house our home. She says there is quite an interest upon present truth in Golden City. She is anxious we shall hold meetings there.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 2)
Thursday, July 3, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It is a very pleasant, delightful day. Mr. Walling sent his horses and wagon for us to come to the Mill. We prepared some work to do on the sewing machine. We had a very pleasant visit. Mrs. Laskey rode back with us. We passed a lumber wagon with three men and two women. One lady got out of the wagon and came to speak to us. Her name was Maxwell. She had been at the Health Institute. She was the daughter of Sister Dart. She urged us to call and see her if we went to Boulder City. She urged us to call upon her mother.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 3)
Friday, July 4, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
Friday is a beautiful day. We washed and cleaned the parlor. Brought wood from the mountain back of the house, in our arms. We worked hard all day. We took the lounge apart and found four dead mice in it. My husband sent letters by a man going to Black Hawk. We feel grateful that a day of rest is before us.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 4)
Sabbath, July 5, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We have a very beautiful day. We walked out on the top of the mountain before the house. We had a season of prayer. When we returned to the house we found Mrs. Purdy, who had called to rest and visit while her husband went to Walling’s Mills for lumber. We told her we observe the Sabbath of the fourth commandment. She seemed to be a very pleasant woman. Mrs. Laskey brought our mail—a letter from Brother Andrews, one from Harmon Lindsay, and the Review. We received a letter from Brother Tucker urging us to come and see them. They live on the road to Idaho about two miles from Black Hawk.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 5)
Sunday, July 6, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We have another beautiful day. We spent most of the day in writing. We gave my husband a fomentation. We sent several letters to Black Hawk to go to Battle Creek. We walked out in the woods and had a very precious season of prayer. We are pleading with the Lord for strength and believe we shall have it.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 6)
Monday, July 7, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It is a beautiful day. After breakfast and prayers we made some preparation to go to Black Hawk. My husband and myself went to Black Hawk. We stopped beside a stream and ate our dinner. We had a good relish for our food. We purchased some necessities in Black Hawk. As we returned we took letters and papers from post office. We received Instructor, Reformer, and Review, letters of special interest from Brother Canright and others. We arrived home before dark.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 7)
Tuesday, July 8, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It is a beautiful day. We wrote very busily. I wrote twenty-four pages before ten o’clock. I sent letters dictated by my husband to Brethren Lindsay, Kellogg, and Merriam. I wrote to Addie Merriam, Emma White, Brother Kellogg, Brother Andrews, Mrs. Walling, Mr. Lang; and Dr. Tolle’s daughter called. We had them stop to dinner. Mr. Walling stopped some time and talked. He then went on his way. He expected to return that night.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 8)
Wednesday, July 9, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We rode up to Mr. Walling’s. We found there a young man very sick. Willie took charge of him, giving him water treatment. He is a man who has been his mother’s pet. He is not acquainted with the rough side of life that he meets in this woodmen’s work. Poor boy, we did what we could for him. Did some sewing upon Mrs. Laskey’s machine.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 9)
Thursday, July 10, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We have another beautiful day. After breakfast and prayers we rode up to Mr. Walling’s to help them in their need. I helped Mrs. Laskey wash, helped prepare table. Lucinda helped her cook. I gave her a fomentation over stomach and liver. We did some sewing on machine. My husband, Lucinda, and self returned home. Willie remained to take care of the sick man.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 10)
Friday, July 11, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It is a beautiful day. After breakfast and prayers we rode up to Mr. Walling’s and assisted Mrs. Laskey in ironing and washing dishes. We then returned home to make preparation for the Sabbath. Mr. Walling went to Black Hawk for a physician for the young man that is sick. When he returned, he came in and we had a long talk about his wife and prospects. We had a praying season in the woods.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 11)
Saturday, July 12, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It is a beautiful day. We hail this rest day of the Lord with joy. My husband and Lucinda rode up to Mr. Walling’s to meet Willie. Dr. Tolle called upon the sick man and dealt out his medicine. He found no fault with the treatment he had had. I wrote for Reformer. We walked out in the woods. Saw strawberries. We had some conversation and a very precious season of prayer. We afterwards, my husband and myself, walked up to the top of the mountain and prayed by ourselves.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 12)
Sunday, July 13, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We awoke grateful to our heavenly Father for sleep and rest. After we had breakfast and attended worship my husband and myself rode up to Mrs. Laskey’s. We found her in a poor condition of health. The sick young man is improving. My husband and Lucinda rode up on the hill and gathered strawberries. We enjoyed them at our noon meal. Fred and Bertie Walling took dinner with us. They have improved very much since last year. I wrote several pages for Instructor. About half past five o’clock we all rode out and gathered one quart of strawberries. My husband and self had a season of prayer in the valley. Lucinda washed.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 13)
Monday, July 14, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We awoke thankful to God for the precious night’s rest we have had. We devoted the day to writing. We had seasons of prayer upon the mountain.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 14)
Tuesday, July 15, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It is a very fine day. We rested well during the night. After prayers and breakfast my husband and myself went about two miles and gathered strawberries. In the afternoon we did some writing.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 15)
Wednesday, July 16, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It is a beautiful day. We rested well during the night. We had our praying season in the family and also by ourselves upon the mountain. Mr. Walling came wagon. He intended to be back by noon. We rode down to Central with him. He went up the gulch to some mills. The scenery was very romantic, rough, and wild. This took our time till noon. We then rode to Sister Bental’s [?]. She is in poor health. We saw Sister Statter [?] at Sister Bental’s. We took dinner with Sister Bental. We then walked down to the business stores and purchased some things. We waited in Central for Mr. Walling till near night. We did not get home till late. We had several letters.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 16)
Thursday, July 17, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
After we had breakfast and prayers, my husband and myself had a season of prayer in the valley. We walked out upon the mountain; gathered strawberries. Willie and Lucinda rode up to Mr. Laskey’s on horseback. We had a precious season of prayer upon the mountains. James dictated two letters. I wrote them to Brother Lindsay and the Brothers Kellogg—to Brother Lindsay in regard to sending box of goods; to Brothers Kellogg in regard to Health Institute. Willie harnessed Elephant and went to Laskey’s. Did not get back till after nine o’clock. Walling and Mrs. Laskey and children rode to Central. Walling is going to Denver for a girl.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 17)
Friday, July 18, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It is a beautiful morning. After breakfast and prayers with the family, my husband and myself walk out and have a praying season alone in the valley. Willie went to Black Hawk with Sandy in single buggy, leading Elephant and Bill. These two horses he put in Walling’s wagon. He met Brother and Sister Canright. They took the easy single buggy. Willie took their trunks in the wagon. They all came safely. We were very happy to meet them. They have a very interesting little girl. We went out with Dudley to pick strawberries. Lucinda and Willie went up to Mr. Laskey’s.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 18)
Sabbath, July 19, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It is a beautiful day. We rested well during the night. We all, Brother Canright, wife, and our family, walked up into the valley and we had a season of prayer. When we returned we wrote some. I read manuscript for next Review. Our rest day passed very pleasantly.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 19)
Sunday, July 20, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We awoke with feelings of gratitude to God for precious sleep. The well was cleaned out and curbed. We then all went into the pasture for strawberries. We were successful in gathering many berries. We devoted the rest of the day to writing. Sunday about twelve o’clock Mr. Walling came with his little girl, Addie. We prepared them beds.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 20)
Monday, July 21, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We spent the day principally in writing. In the evening we rode up the hill about two miles and gathered quarts of berries. We received quite a number of letters, papers, and books; a letter from Joseph Clark, M. C. Kellogg, Belden, and several others. Willie and Lucinda went up to Mr. Laskey’s to help them a little. Addie went with them to see her brothers Frederic and Hurbert. Very many Indians passed with ponies, mules, and American horses.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 21)
Tuesday, July 22, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
My husband answered Brother Kellogg’s letters today and wrote several letters to Battle Creek and others. I finished my article for Review. Read it over and corrected it on the way to Black Hawk. A storm was threatening us that, with passing carriages in the narrow pass between mountains on either side, made it unfavorable for correcting proof sheets. We were in season to put our manuscript in the post office. This we were desirous to do that it should reach Battle Creek in time for next paper. We traded some in Central. We called upon Dr. Rice. His wife wrote us a letter requesting us to call upon her. We had a very profitable interview. She stated she wished to live less for this world and more for God. Said she had been sick and she promised the Lord if He would spare her life she would devote it to His service. She desires to go to Battle Creek to the Health Institute and receive treatment. She is very anxious to be where there are religious privileges. She united with the Presbyterian church, but she has not grown, she says, in spirit and strength any. She feels dissatisfied with her religious experience. We left, promising to call again. We found Brother Tucker camped near our house. We had profitable conversation with him.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 22)
Wednesday, July 23, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It is a beautiful day. Mr. Walling came last night in the night. We made provision for him. Early this morning Elder Canright, my husband, and myself walked out in the valley and we had a very precious season of prayer. We feel that the message of truth should be given in this territory. We think of sending for Brother Van Horn and Adelia to break into the new field. We are crying to God for strength of body and to be imbued with His Spirit that we may work to His glory. We believe strength will come. Hundreds of Indians have passed here this morning and yesterday. They are going over in Middle Park to hunt and to fish. Elder Canright took pack, worked well. We all went out between sunset and dark and gathered about two quarts of strawberries. We had splendid showers part of the day. Prepared matter for Instructor.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 23)
Thursday, July 24, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We have had an excellent night’s rest. Elder Canright feels better in health. It is a beautiful day. Wrote three letters to Addie Chamberlain, Emma White, and Addie Merriam, eleven pages in all. I prepared copy for September number of Reformer and Instructor, which kept me very closely at my writing till near night. We then rode out about five miles and back. Elder Canright and wife accompanied us. We had a very pleasant ride. We received a large package of Christian Weekly. Received the Review. We are pleased with the paper.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 24)
Friday, July 25, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We feel grateful to our heavenly Father for rest and sleep. We feel refreshed this morning. I commenced writing letters before breakfast. Send two this morning to Battle Creek—four pages to Edson, to Addie, and Jenny Merriam. Willie goes to Central with Mr. Laskey to take the sick young man to the cars. Wrote four pages to Sister Sawyer. Elder Canright, his wife, my husband, and myself walked out to the pasture and gathered about six quarts of berries. This is a great luxury.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 25)
Saturday, July 26, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It is a pleasant morning. Had frost last night. We walked out in the forest of pines, after writing some hours. We had a precious season of prayer. In the afternoon all but Willie walked out in the woods and had a sweet season of prayer. After the close of the Sabbath we rode up to Mr. Walling’s. Brought home some milk.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 26)
Sunday, July 27, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We had quite a frost last night. Mr. Walling called on his way home from Caribou. Fred and Bert came down to spend the day. My husband and myself went out to gather strawberries. We picked about three quarts; nearly all picked over. My husband spent much of the day in writing. Sister Canright washed. I ironed some and washed dinner dishes. Mr. Walling called on his way to Caribou. We prepared supper for him and his boys. Willie and Lucinda rode up to Walling’s. It was late. They churned, worked over butter, did not return till late at night.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 27)
Monday, July 28, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We did not sleep until after midnight. We were very anxious in regard to Willie and Lucinda. They returned all safe. We felt thankful that no accident had happened to them. Lucinda and Willie went with Elder Canright to Brother Tucker’s in Russell’s Gulch. Showery all day. Two severe hailstorms. Hail fell as large as a large bean. My husband and I gathered about one quart of strawberries.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 28)
Tuesday, July 29, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
Willie was not well. Had a severe cold. We had two very precious seasons of prayer. We walked out in the pasture and gathered berries. Willie went in search of the horses. He complained of being very tired. We wrote some.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 29)
Wednesday, July 30, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
Willie was sick. Ate no dinner. Gave him treatment. He seemed to be in a high fever. We gave him a sitz bath, followed by pack. It was difficult to subdue his fever. I brought about fourteen pails of water, which wearied me considerably. My husband and Lucinda rode up to Laskey’s. We had quite a severe hailstorm.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 30)
Thursday, July 31, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
Willie was better. I gave him treatment with good effect. He fasted for two days and he is steadily improving. I feel that I have overdone. We had hailstorm today. We walked out in the pasture and gathered a few strawberries.
(2LtMs, Ms 9, 1873, 31)
Ms 10, 1873
Diary, August 1873 NP August 1 - 31, 1873 Portions of this manuscript are published in 3MR 161-162; 6MR 293; 2Bio 387. Friday, August 1, 1873 [Walling’s Mills, Colorado,]
We rose early and made preparations to go to Central. Willie and I went for the purpose of bringing home Brother and Sister Canright. Willie got horses shod in town. We had quite a shower. Purchased some things. We had a pleasant interview with Brother Tucker’s family. We relished our dinner. They urged us to come and see them. We passed through Nevada on our way home to see the settlement and ascertain the prospects of holding meetings in the place. There are many places where the truth should be presented. We have decided to send for Brother Van Horn and wife. We all returned home safely.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 1)
Sabbath, August 2, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
This is a beautiful day. We walked out early and had a precious season of prayer. We wrote quite steadily upon the temptations of Christ. My husband is writing upon White Robes. The treasures of God’s Word are being opened to him. He sees the truth like precious gems and is striving to link them together. We see a glorious harmony in truth. Two men came hungry; had walked from the foot of the range. We placed before them the simple food we had cooked. They ate like hungry men, indeed.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 2)
Sunday, August 3, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We rose early, walked out for a season of prayer in the valley. We wrote very steadily until nearly noon. We then went in the pasture berrying. Before dinner we picked one quart, after dinner we gathered several quarts. We then walked quite a distance in the woods to see land that we think of purchasing. We found excellent land that could bear much grass, if not vegetables, if cleared. We were pleased with the scenery. When we returned to the pasture we met Mrs. Laskey. Her husband and children were at the house. We returned and visited with them. My husband went with me to the top of the mountain and we had a season of prayer.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 3)
Monday, August 4, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We rose early. Wrote letters to go to Central. My husband and Sister Hall rode to Central. I sent letters to Sister Lockwood of Holly, Michigan, for dried fruit; also to Angelia Edmonds. My husband brought home letters from Brother Cornell, Elder Butler, Brother Abbey, Dr. Russell, Brother Lindsay. We had a very refreshing praying season on the mountain. Willie, Elder Canright, and myself gathered quite a quantity of strawberries.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 4)
Tuesday, August 5, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We wrote several letters. I wrote one to Elder Loughborough in reference to his wife’s health and informing him we should remain in Colorado during the winter. Willie and Elder Canright went to Black Hawk to get our box of goods sent from Battle Creek. They came back in good season. Willie and Sister Hall went directly to Walling’s Mills. My husband and Elder Canright opened box of goods. Everything came in good order. We had a bill of $17.00 to pay on the box. It was mostly filled with bound volumes of Review and tracts and pamphlets. After we had unpacked the goods we walked on the way to Mr. Walling’s. We had pleasant conversation. We walked one mile. Had a season of prayer and met our family and rode back with them.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 5)
Wednesday, August 6, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
I devoted much time to arranging my room; tacked down carpet, put curtain around my rough pine table. Brother Canright put me up extra shelves in my room. Mr. Walling came along, exchanged his lumber wagon for our new buggy to use for a few days. We got four loads of broken wood. I helped them pick it up. My husband worked considerably for him. We got up a nice pile of wood. Elder Canright took sitz bath. The teams passed on their way to Middle Park. Editors, ministers, and citizens were on their way to recreate. We had two very precious seasons of prayer in the forest of pines. Mr. Walling came in the night. Left letters from Loughborough and Andrews. Left our buggy top which he brought from Central.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 6)
Thursday, August 7, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It is a beautiful morning. My husband and myself walked out after family prayer. We prayed by ourselves in the valley. My husband and Sister Hall rode up to Walling’s Mills. Mrs. Laskey came with Bertie and her children to go to Central. I wrote five letters—four pages to Sister E. High of California, Yolo County; four pages to Emma White; three pages to Brother Nicola; two pages to Sister Kilgore; two pages to Sister Sawyer.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 7)
My husband and Sister Hall returned before dinner. The clouds looked dark and threatening. We arranged the carpet for parlor, mended the carpet for bedroom. Both are old, but by a little economy they will do to save some work in washing floors. My husband, Elder Canright, and Willie went for a load of wood. They had but just unhitched the horses after their return when it commenced raining, then hailing. We had both rain and hail in great quantities. The hail was as large as hazel nuts. The water rushed down from the mountain and came into our sleeping room close by the floor. Two were engaged in mopping and bailing up water with dust pan. The kitchen leaked and flooded the floor. The diningroom leaked badly. This has been a broken day—as well as yesterday. Mrs. Laskey came from Black Hawk. She was out in all the rain. Her little girl, Rosa, was quite wet. Bertie was quite wet. We had their wet garments removed and exchanged for dry ones. They went home quite comfortable. They brought us letters from Brother Abbey, and a new Review.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 8)
Friday, August 8, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It is quite cool this morning after the storm yesterday. Our carpet seems very comfortable on the floor. My husband sends a letter to Brother Abbey today, returning his, that the directors may see it. We feel thankful that we have had a comfortable night’s rest. I wrote a letter of eight pages to Brother Abbey, one to Addie Merriam of three pages. Elder Canright and his wife rode to Central. We spent a short time in the strawberry field. The hail had beaten off most of the strawberries. We gathered about one quart. We enjoyed our dinner very much.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 9)
We put down the carpet in my writing room. Elder Canright returned. They were out in a shower. We received the Review, letters also from Elder Matteson, our son Edson White, and from Dr. Kellogg. We had a season of prayer upon the mountains. We had a precious season of prayer where all took part at the commencement of the Sabbath. Gentlemen on their way to Middle Park called for bread to eat on the journey. We let them have what we had baked. They were from New York and Massachusetts.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 10)
Sabbath, August 9, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It is a beautiful day, but rather cool. I wrote ten pages, six to Edson White, our son, and four pages to the Trustees of Publishing Association. My husband had an ill turn last night. He walked the street in front of the house until midnight. He has this morning sent a letter to Elder Van Horn. We walked out and had two seasons of prayer. I wrote some upon my book, Spirit of Prophecy. Prepared articles for Instructor.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 11)
Sunday, August 10, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
I wrote letters. Mrs. Laskey came to see us. Mr. Walling came. Although it was raining, Willie, Mr. Walling, my husband, and myself mounted our horses and rode through the thick woods all over his farm. We rode miles. I was not much weary. We think it is a very nice place. We wish to buy it. We pray that the Lord may direct us in this as well as all our matters. When we returned Mr. Laskey, wife, and children were at our house. We entertained them as well as we could. Sister Hall prepared supper for them and they all left feeling well, I think. We [had] some talk with Brother and Sister Canright.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 12)
Monday, August 11, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We had still further conversation with Brother and Sister Canright. They both rose up and resisted everything we said. I feel so sorry. My husband got his foot burned. We rode out. Went to Black Hawk. Got mail—several letters which gave us relief at last. Brother Lindsay wrote the facts in regard to the state of things at Battle Creek. Dr. Kellogg also wrote out in regard to matters.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 13)
Tuesday, August 12, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
James was quite sick. I was up with him. We prayed together and he was relieved and the Lord gave him rest in sleep. We felt it duty to have some conversation with Brother and Sister Canright. He was well stocked with unbelief, ready to pour out his complaints upon us and, I think, anyone who would give him an opportunity. We said some plain things to them. They went to Brother Tucker’s. My husband sent articles for Review. I sent several letters.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 14)
Wednesday, August 13, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It is rainy and unpleasant. My husband, Willie, and myself went to town. My husband was very poorly. We could not get out of the carriage, but returned immediately. Our box had not come. I put in the office Reformer matter for Battle Creek. I sent letters to several. I put in the office letters for Edson and Lindsay. We rode out, went around by Sashinger’s [?] Mills. It was a most desolate place. I was glad to return to our home.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 15)
Thursday, August 14, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It is still unpleasant. Willie went horseback for the mail. He returned with a number of letters, one large package from Elder Canright. I thought not best to read it, for I had matter to write out and wished not to have my mind disturbed. Mr. Walling called. All went up to Mr. Laskey’s but me. I remained to write to Elder Canright. My mind was much depressed as I realized that Satan was so powerful with his temptations upon our people. Mr. Walling came to remain for the night.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 16)
Friday, August 15, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We have a morning dark and foggy. The like has not been seen for years. Mr. Walling took breakfast with us; remained till after prayers. We had written in one day about twenty-eight pages to different individuals. We went to Black Hawk. It was very unpleasant. We had a special season of prayer in the log shanty, being too wet in the grove. Received urgent letters of invitations to go to California and be at the camp meeting. We do not feel that God will send us to California this year.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 17)
Sabbath, August 16, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
Early in the morning we had a special season of prayer in the log house. I wrote upon matters of importance for Canright. We went up in the woods, the whole family, and had a season of prayer.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 18)
Sunday, August 17, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We arose early and went to the log house and had a season of prayer. The blessing of the Lord seemed to rest upon us. Mr. Laskey and family came to spend the day with us; were desirous for Instructor and Review sent to their children. We sent them a package cheerfully. Mr. Laskey accommodated us by getting our box from depot. Mrs. Laskey and ourselves all went to find gooseberries; spent about one-half hour. Our box came; found it half full of Reviews and Instructors and Reformers for distribution.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 19)
Monday, August 18, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We had our special season of prayer in log house. Willie left for Black Hawk to bring Brother and Sister Canright and Sister Shaw. I devoted my time to writing. We had a little movement cure climbing the mountain back to our house. About five o’clock Willie came with Brother and Sister Canright, Sister Shaw, and her two children. We were glad to meet them. Letters received from Elder Loughborough and Elder Cornell. Good reports from meetings. Sister Sawyer writes, also Sister Lockwood from Holly. Letter from Brother Lindsay. We wrote twenty pages today. We had a precious season of prayer. We did not retire till after ten. My husband has been writing a special piece for Review.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 20)
Tuesday, August 19, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We arose early and tried to complete the writing commenced, to take to Black Hawk post office. Sister Shaw went with us to Black Hawk. We took dinner on the way by the side of a rock. Willie took Sister Shaw to Nevada to her sister’s. We then returned to Black Hawk and home again.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 21)
Wednesday, August 20, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
Sister Canright spoke of going to Golden City with Sister Shaw today. We persuaded her not to go. We wanted them to rest contented until we could get the matter written for them and could talk over the matters where we could not see alike. Brother and Sister Canright are self-deceived, self-righteous, and unless they change their course they will not have the blessing of God to attend their labors.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 22)
Thursday, August 21, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We feel distressed and much burdened. We walked out to the log house and prayed earnestly to God. We had a precious, impressive season of prayer. The blessing of God rested upon us in great measure. We talked with Brother Canright and prayed for them, but they do not seem to be impressed at all. They seem unfeeling, as unimpressible as stones.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 23)
Friday, August 22, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We had a precious season of prayer in early morning in the log house. We wrote very diligently until nearly twelve o’clock to get our matter into the mail. Sister Hall and Willie accompanied us to Black Hawk. We took dinner on the road. We received letter from Elder Cornell and Lindsay and Abbey. We went to Central to purchase a small stove to take with us when we should camp out and to use here on necessary occasions.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 24)
Sabbath, August 23, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We devoted some time in prayer to God alone before breakfast. We had some assurance of His presence and of His grace. We wrote twenty-one pages of foolscap. We had no rest upon the Sabbath. We walked out into the grove of evergreens and there made supplication to God for His presence and His grace.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 25)
Sunday, August 24, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We had our private season of prayer before family prayer. I resumed my writing. Wrote sixteen pages of foolscap and handed them to Brother Canright to read. I felt that my heart was as heavy as lead. I told my husband Elder Canright and his wife were rejecting my testimony to them. In the evening we had some conversation with them and my conviction was confirmed. I was very weary; felt that I had written too much. They seemed so very uneasy, I tried to hurry up my writing when I was unable to write a line.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 26)
Monday, August 25, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We walked out, although it was raining, and enjoyed a precious season of prayer. I then wrote as busily as I could until time for us to leave for Black Hawk. I then read my manuscript in the carriage, correcting it as I rode, and had it but just ready when we drove up to the post office. We purchased some things very cheap. In returning I was in considerable pain. As we got home and came into the house, I could not stand erect. I was obliged to go to bed. As my pain continued I took sitz bath, which gave immediate relief, but my pain came on again. I took fomentations. I purged and vomited freely. I had not had such an attack for years. I rested some but suffered much.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 27)
Tuesday, August 26, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
I was unable to leave my bed. Could eat no breakfast. The team was obliged to go to Black Hawk. My husband desired me to go. We decided it could do me no harm. I felt refreshed by the air. Endured the journey much better than I feared. We received several good letters. We returned, having purchased some crockery. The next morning Brother and Sister Canright decided to leave for Golden City. I was very weak, but I copied several pages for them of testimony given me for their correction. We felt greatly relieved after they left. Their spirit and their unbelief were very painful to us.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 28)
Wednesday, August 27, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We had a precious season of prayer in the log house. We prepared matter for Testimony No. 23, but could not look it over and correct it as we would have been glad to do. We again rode to Black Hawk post office. As we returned we gathered a few quarts of raspberries on Dory Hill.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 29)
Thursday, August 28, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We devoted the time to writing and praying to the Lord. My husband was much depressed. It seemed to him so cruel to be pressed and burdened in his feeble health with the case of Elder Canright. We walked up the mountain into the grove and knelt in prayer. The blessing of the Lord rested upon us. My husband was greatly encouraged. We praised the Lord with weeping that He had indeed met with us.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 30)
Friday, August 29, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We went to Rollinsville to gather raspberries. We all gathered about fourteen quarts. My husband and Willie built a bridge to cross the stream. We enjoyed the day very much.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 31)
Saturday, August 30, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We felt that it was our privilege to rest. We wrote to Elder Butler in regard to Elder Canright’s position. A messenger came to us with the sad news that Bertie Walling had broken his legs. We prepared to go immediately to see the afflicted boy. We drove a short distance when we had a storm of rain and hail. We retreated to our house. We had a hard hailstorm. We decided not to venture until the next day.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 32)
Sunday, August 31, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We prepared to go to Middle Boulder to see Mr. Walling and the afflicted boy. We found the boy quite comfortable. We took Mr. Parker in our carriage and brought him back. He was the editor of the Industrial Age. His health gave way and he was obliged to flee from St. Louis to save his life. We returned and ate our dinner at Middle Boulder, designing to gather berries, but it looked like storm and we returned. Looked over several pages of manuscript—The Temptation of Christ.
(2LtMs, Ms 10, 1873, 33)
Ms 11, 1873
Diary, September 1873 NP September 1 - 30, 1873 This manuscript is published in entirety in 20MR 205-212. Monday, September 1, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We visited the berry patch. Could gather but six quarts. The rain drove us home. It was raining nearly all day. Willie and myself rode to Black Hawk. It rained hard, but we did not take cold. We had a very pleasant ride home. No rain. We had a good long letter from Elder Loughborough, and one from Brother Canright and Butler.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 1)
Tuesday, September 2, 1873 [Walling’s Mills, Colorado,]
We went to Rollinsville to the raspberry ground. We took our tent and stove and a change of clothing. We did not go out to pick berries until late. We brought home about 25 quarts. Willie was not with us. He was obliged to go for Brother and Sister Downs, who wrote us that they would be at Black Hawk Tuesday. Willie came for us about six o’clock. We were glad to meet Brother and Sister Downs. Our visit with them was pleasant.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 2)
Wednesday, September 3, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
Brother and Sister Downs went with us to gather raspberries. We took dinner in the tent and had a very pleasant time with our brother and sister. We gathered about twenty-six quarts. Lucinda canned about eleven cans in the tent. We brought home about ten quarts of berries. My husband invited Mr. Parker, the editor, to come home with us. We had a very social chat with him. Preparing his supper and getting supper for two hungry men made our work hard. Sister Hall had to bake. We sat up till ten helping her. For two nights she did not get to rest until midnight.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 3)
Thursday, September 4, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
Willie took Mr. Parker and Brother and Sister Downs to Black Hawk. Brother Downs has decided to go to Oregon and settle. Mr. Parker is to remain for the present at Central. We are too tired to do anything with comfort. We had Sister Downs cook her food for her journey to Oregon. We felt that it was a privilege to supply them with material for cooking. We prepared dinner for them all before they went. A young man took dinner with us. My husband employed him to work for us today.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 4)
Friday, September 5, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We went out to gather raspberries upon the mountains. Lou Walling passed by in the stage for Middle Boulder.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 5)
Sabbath, September 6, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We had a rainy day. About nine o’clock a gentleman on horseback inquired if we had seen two men pass. I had seen them about midnight going by our house. They stopped to drink at the spring and then started up the hill on the road to Black Hawk upon the run. These men had been stealing and the authorities were in search of them. Mr. Walling and an officer rode up to the door. Mr. Walling ate a lunch, changed horses and drove on. I wrote to Elder Loughborough. My husband also wrote a letter; sent by Mr. Walling.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 6)
Sunday, September 7, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We had a special season of prayer in the log house. Sister Hall and I did a large, two-weeks’ washing. In the midst of the washing, Mr. and Mrs. Laskey with their two children came to visit us. Mr. Walling also came. We laid aside the washing and visited and sewed on a sheet. I made an entire sheet by hand, hemmed three ends of sheet, made a pair of pillow cases. This was my day’s work. I had quite a long conversation with Mr. Walling in reference to his children. Mr. Walling tarried with us overnight.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 7)
Monday, September 8, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We prepared an early breakfast for Mr. Walling. My husband talked with Mr. Walling in reference to the house, which seemed to be leaning forward. I rinsed out a portion of the washing, hung them out to dry. We then went to Black Hawk. While trading we were much surprised to see Brother Glover walk into the store. We met very unexpectedly. We were very happy to meet Brother Glover. He rode up to Central with us. We purchased some things and returned home with Brother Glover an extra passenger. He had come to Colorado on business. His son Eli was sketching Denver and was going to Boulder City to sketch from that place, and Brother Glover to canvass for him and take orders. Brother Glover spoke with great tenderness of his wife who has recently died. He feels her loss deeply. May God comfort him in his affliction.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 8)
Tuesday, September 9, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We had a very precious interview with Brother Glover. We went to Excelsior to look after our tent, pitched in the raspberry bushes at the foot of a high rocky mountain. We gathered a few quarts before dinner and we had an excellent dinner. My husband, Brother Glover, and myself rode over to Middle Boulder to see Mr. Walling and Bertie. Bertie was doing well. We could tarry but a few hours. We returned, taking both Addie and May with us. At Excelsior I sat in the wagon while Brother Glover and my husband crossed the creek and helped Willie and Lucinda take down the tent and bring over our things which we had used in camp. We arrived home about dark.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 9)
Wednesday, September 10, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We have been praying earnestly to know our duty in regard to leaving our present location and temporary home for California. We have prayed earnestly for light but got none. We feel rather unsettled. We desire to know our duty and we feel willing to do whatever it may be. We went to Central. Called to see Mr. Parker. We found him no better. He was very glad to see us. My husband promised to come in Friday and give him fomentations. We purchased several things at Central in the line of dry goods. Brother Glover and Willie spent the day hunting, but found nothing. Mr. Walling came at midnight. We talked with him in regard to Central Park. Mrs. Laskey, her two children, and Mrs. Toll took dinner with Sister Hall in our absence.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 10)
Thursday, September 11, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
In the morning Mrs. Laskey rode to the door with two children. She was going to Central. We had Willie go with her to get provisions for Central Park. Mrs. Laskey waited for my husband to write several letters. We were disappointed when Willie returned to find so little mail. Brother Glover and my husband rode out on horseback. My husband and myself had a special season of prayer for God to direct us in regard to our duty. Mrs. Laskey and her children took supper at our house.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 11)
Friday, September 12, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We have decided to go to Central Park. We went to Central around by McCameron’s [?]. She was not at home. We lost our journey. We drove as fast as possible to Central. We called upon Mr. Parker. We took with us fomentation flannels. My husband gave treatment to Mr. Parker, which seemed to work favorably. He is certainly in a very bad way. His throat is distressingly inflamed, making it very painful for him to swallow even liquid. We are trying to improve his condition. Mrs. Johnson, with whom he boards, seems to be a very kind, benevolent lady. We took dinner at her table. We hope our visit was not unprofitable.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 12)
We traded some in Central and Black Hawk. We arrived home a little before sundown. Received letters from Brother Canright, also Mary Gaskill and Daniel Bourdeau, giving us an account of camp meeting. When we reached home we found John Granson there. We felt sorry he should come to see us on the Sabbath. We do not like to have visitors to entertain upon the Sabbath who have no respect for God or His holy day. Poor John, he has not hope in God.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 13)
Saturday, September 13, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We arose early and walked out to have a private prayer in the grove. We feel perplexed to know just what is our duty. We decided to write to Mr. Walling to defer going to the Park until we could hear from Eli Glover. We depend upon him and his wife to keep our house while Brother Glover accompanies us on the trip to the Park. I wrote some upon life of Christ for Instructor. We had an early season of prayer. Willie rode on horseback to Black [Hawk] post office. Did not return until half past nine o’clock. He got half of the Review and one letter from Brother Uriah Smith. We were rejoiced to read its contents. He confesses his wrong course the few months past. If the scales are falling from his eyes, we praise God.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 14)
Sunday, September 14, 1873
Mr. Walling unexpectedly drove up and said he was ready to go over in the Park. He hurried us all up and we were packed, about ready to start at eleven o’clock. We drove out about six miles and took dinner. We spread our table by the side of a stream, built a fire, and had some warm food. We enjoyed it much. We rested one hour and then drove on. We made good time through the woods, and we thought that we might have time to pass the Range by daylight. We ascended the range slowly. The road was worse than we anticipated, and we had to move very slowly. We did not get to timber land the other side of the range until after dark. We made camp about nine o’clock and did not get to rest until about midnight. We had a flaming camp fire, which was very grateful after sitting some time in the wagon waiting for a good camping spot to be found. I was sick and could not sleep at night.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 15)
Monday, September 15, 1873 [In the Mountains, Colorado,]
We took breakfast and then packed our bedding to move on. My husband, Willie, and myself were seated on our horses. My husband and I rode on. Mr. Walling and Sister Hall were in the wagon. We left our spring wagon because the road was so rough we could go no farther. We rode about two miles, when Willie called us to come back. Mr. Walling had broken down. We rode back and saw that the axletree of the wagon was broken, and we must make camp where we were. We rested a while and Mr. Walling took his three horses and the spring wagon back and was to send us the axletree, or bring it, Wednesday. We made a very comfortable camp and had plenty of bedding. The nights are very cold. There is ice on the water and the ground nearly freezes nights.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 16)
Tuesday, September 16, 1873 [In the Mountains, Colorado,]
We rested well last night but we are very tired and lame today. Our drive was too tedious and we took cold, which makes us feel as though we could scarcely move. We had a very pleasant day. We should have enjoyed the scenery had we been less weary. Our camp is in a grove of heavy pines. There is a small open space of ground, with grass for horses. On the south rises a high mountain of rocks. Trees seem to grow out of the very rocks. They tower up high but seem to cling or lean upon the rocky mountain sides. East, west, and north are gigantic evergreens. Through these thick trees is our road to the Central Park. We have had several seasons of prayer. My husband and myself had very profitable conversation in regard to our work. I felt relieved.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 17)
Wednesday, September 17, 1873
We have another beautiful morning. No rain has yet come to trouble us. We have some wind which draws down the canyon. We have to move our little stove several times in the day as the wind changes from one end of the tent to the other. We had a season of prayer this morning alone, by ourselves. We are anxiously waiting for Brother Glover or Walling to come to our camp. We expect them today. Travelers came by with [a] wagon and men on foot driving sheep. They said there were thirteen hundred in the flock. They have taken up land in the Park and will spend the winter there and feed their sheep. Two other travelers passed.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 18)
Thursday, September 18, 1873
We have another beautiful day. Cold nights and mornings, warm in the middle of the day. We expect Brother Glover or Mr. Walling, or both, today. We have had a good season of prayer in the woods, my husband and I. Two travelers and one horse returning from the Park came by our camp. We gave them bread as they said they had nothing to eat but squirrels and pork. They brought some fine specimens and curiosities from Willow Creek.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 19)
Friday, September 19, 1873
It commenced storming early in the morning and snowed hard until noon. The atmosphere was not chilly so the snow melted soon after falling; but it did not clear off. It was cloudy. We built a camp fire in the evening, which made it very pleasant. I was quite sick through the day.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 20)
Sabbath, September 20, 1873
The sun shone out beautifully in the morning but it soon became cloudy and snowed very fast, covering the ground and lodging upon the trees. It looks like winter. All around us is white. Here we are just this side of the Range in our tent, while the earth is sheeted with snow. This day has been a day of perplexity and trial. We feel deeply our need of the grace of God. These small trials are worse to bear than heavy afflictions. Shall I ever learn to be perfectly patient under minor trials? I know that I shall be tempted and proved until self shall be hid in Jesus. My earnest prayer to God daily is for divine grace to do His will.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 21)
Sunday, September 21, 1873
It was a severe night, and today the storm is over and it is very pleasant. We devoted the day to earnestly seeking the Lord. We had our hearts melted and broken before Him. We see a great work to be done and we know that we are not fitted for the work. We have too little spiritual strength. We must have help from God. We want a right spirit renewed within us. My husband and myself went up upon a high hill where it was warmed by the rays of the sun, and in full view of the snow-covered mountains we prayed to God for His blessing. I earnestly desire to do the will of God. We had some comfort in the Lord and felt, both of us, to resolve to be more careful of each other’s feelings and to ever treat each other with becoming respect and dignity. We both wept before the Lord and felt deeply humbled before Him.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 22)
Monday, September 22, 1873
It is a beautiful day. Willie started over the Range today to either get supplies or get the axletree of the wagon Walling is making. We cannot either move on or return to our home at the Mills without our wagon is repaired. There is very poor feed for the horses. Their grain is being used up. The nights are cold. Our stock of provisions is fast decreasing. We have had precious seasons of prayer today. The comfort of the Holy Spirit is with us in a measure, but our souls still cry out for God. We must have more close and constant communion with our Redeemer. Without the light of His love we are indeed in a cold, cheerless world. Nothing can give us happiness. With His love the most dreary desert is a Paradise. Willie and Brother Glover returned today. Brother Glover was on his way with [the] new axletree when Willie met him. Willie was beyond Rollins’ Camp. He returned with Brother Glover. We were glad to see them and made preparations to start the next morning for Grand Lake in Middle Park. We had a cold night but our noble bonfire of big logs and our little stove in the tent kept us comfortable.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 23)
Tuesday, September 23, 1873
We rose early and packed up bedding and provisions for a start on our journey, after committing our case to God for His protection and guarding care. The road was so rough for about six miles, Sister Hall and myself decided to walk. My husband rode a pony. Willie walked. Brother Glover drove the horses. The road was very rough. We had to walk over streams and gulches, on stones and upon logs. We gathered some gum from the trees as we passed along.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 24)
After six or eight miles’ travel on foot, it was a good rest to climb upon the bedding and ride. The scenery in the park was very grand. Our hearts were cheerful, although we were very tired. We could trace the wonders of God’s works in the grand towering mountains and abrupt rocks, in the beautiful plains and in the groves of pines. The variegated trees, showing the marks of autumn, were interspersed among the living green pines, presenting to our senses a picture of great loveliness and beauty. It was the dying glories of summer. We camped for the night in a plain surrounding a cluster of willows. We cut plenty of grass for our beds.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 25)
Wednesday, September 24, 1873
We were up right early to pack our things and pursue our journey. We had most beautiful scenery most of the way. Autumn’s glory is seen in the variegated golden and scarlet trees interspersed among the dark evergreens. The towering mountains are all around us. Rough, rocky, barren peaks of mountains rise above mountain tops that are covered with evergreens. The scenery is awfully grand. We stopped at Grand river for dinner. We had some difficulty in finding a carriage road, but after some delay, and one on horseback searching carefully, we could pass on. We had a very rough road. We arrived at Grand Lake about five o’clock. Pitched our tent in a good dry spot and were tired enough to rest that night.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 26)
Thursday, September 25, 1873 [Grand Lake, Colorado,]
We worked busily nearly all the day in getting settled. We have at last got fixed very convenient. I have two ticks made of woolen blankets which we filled with hay and made very nice beds. We have boards arranged for shelves, and we look very cozy here. Brother Glover went fishing. He caught a few fish. He shot a duck in the morning, but it was lost in the water.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 27)
Friday, September 26, 1873
We have a very lovely day today. Brother Glover went out hunting. The wind was too strong to fish. Brother Glover travelled ten miles but found no game. Willie shot two grey squirrels to make broth for Brother Glover.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 28)
Saturday, September 27, 1873
This is a beautiful day; not a cloud in the heavens. I spent the day in writing and reading over manuscript for printer, upon the temptation of Christ in the wilderness. I am anxious to get this before the people, for they need it. After we had prayer at the close of the Sabbath, Brother Glover went out fishing. He caught sixteen fish. We urged him to dress them and take them home to his children, as he had decided to take the pony and go the next day to the Mills to get supplies for us, and have Mr. Walling come for us.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 29)
Sunday, September 28, 1873
Brother Glover left the camp today to go for supplies. We are getting short of provisions. We got him the best we could for his meals on the way. He was to send Mr. Walling immediately and to get our mail. A young man from Nova Scotia had come in from hunting. He had a quarter of deer. He had traveled twenty miles with this deer upon his back. The remainder of the deer he had left hung up in the woods. He saw six elk but did not try to shoot them as he knew he could not carry them out. He gave us a small piece of the meat, which we made into broth. Willie shot a duck which came in a time of need, for our supplies were rapidly diminishing.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 30)
Monday, September 29, 1873
We improved a portion of the day in getting hay for horses. My husband swung the scythe. Willie pitched the hay into the wagon and Lucinda and I trod it down. My husband and Willie worked diligently to make a warm stable of an old house near by, and in securing hay for horses. My husband is encouraged in regard to his health. He can endure considerable physical exercise. His food does not distress him as it did.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 31)
Tuesday, September 30, 1873
Another beautiful, sunshiny day. We have the men who took fish to Central and Black Hawk. They have again come with supplies and to get more fish. My husband and Willie talked with them considerably. Mr. Westcott killed a wolf this morning. It was a large, savage-looking beast. He was caught in a trap and was howling half the night, which seemed very dismal. The fur of the wolf was very fine and thick.
(2LtMs, Ms 11, 1873, 32)
Ms 12, 1873
Diary, October 1873 NP October 1 - October 26, 1873 Portions of this manuscript are published in 3MR 168-172; 6MR 294; 2Bio 388-389. Wednesday, October 1, 1873 [Grand Lake, Colorado,]
We are having very warm days, but rather cool nights. I spent nearly all day in writing. Willie went out upon the water in the afternoon. My husband and Willie and Sister Hall went after a load of hay to keep the horses. Their feed is nearly done. My heart is sad and discouraged today. I cannot understand my position or my work. It is useless for me to express my convictions or my fears, or the exercises of my mind, to anyone. They cannot appreciate my feelings or understand at all my mind. They cannot help me. God alone can help me. Oh, that He would let His light shine around about me and not hide His face from me! I mourn for the light of His countenance. I faint for His salvation.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 1)
Thursday, October 2, 1873
We have another beautiful day. I took my writings out under a tree and wrote very steadily until noon. After dinner we went in a boat across the lake and scrambled over rocks and mountains, trees, and brush one mile or more. We saw large poplar trees that the beavers had taken off as nicely as though they had been cut with a knife. The instinct and habits of these animals are truly wonderful. We took the boat again. As it was hard rowing, Willie ran along on the sandy beach and with a long rope drew the boat after him, which was a much easier as well as a more rapid way of getting along, for the boat was clumsy and the oars were very poor. We spent some time upon the water, fishing, but it was so cold in the evening we thought it prudent to return to our tent. The men left this morning with their fish to pack out to Central and Black Hawk. There is now only one man at the lake besides ourselves.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 2)
Friday, October 3, 1873
The sun shines forth in its glory, but my heart is sad. I feel sick in body and distressed and discouraged in mind. A weight is upon my spirits so very oppressive I feel that I must sink under it. I fear greatly that I have displeased God in not attending the camp meetings, even if I went alone. God has given me a testimony to bear, and I fear that [the reason] why I am so weak and so discouraged is because I am not moving in the counsel of God. Oh, what does all this mean? I resolve to take this or that course and difficulties arise which seem inconsistent or objectionable, and then I look and resolve in another direction, and thus matters stand. I see no relief in any direction. I am shut up in darkness. Was very sick, vomited up much phlegm.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 3)
The horse called Parson was very sick. We feared he would die. We doctored him as well as we could, putting hot flannel blankets around him. He was relieved after several applications. We learned that hydrotherapy is for animals as well as for human beings.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 4)
Saturday, October 4, 1873
It is a beautiful morning. The sun shines out very lovely. I rested but little through the night. I suffered much pain. I had trouble of mind, which led to reflection and to some decisions I felt that it was best for me to make. I hope the Lord will pity me and relieve my mind of distressing perplexity and not suffer me to be tempted above what I am able to bear. My mind has been for a long time in great perplexity and embarrassment, for much of the time for three years I fear that I shall have to lay my burden down. I cannot endure the thought of my labors being less and less efficient. I would rather retire from public labor and never allow my voice to be heard in public than mar the precious cause of God. Perhaps this is now my place—to do nothing in the cause of God in speaking in public or in reproving others. May God show me my right place and what He requires of me, is my prayer.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 5)
Sunday, October 5, 1873
Another beautiful day has come. The sun shines so pleasantly, but no relief comes to us. Our provisions have been very low for some days. Many of our supplies have gone—no butter, no sauce of any kind, no corn meal or graham flour. We have a little fine flour and that is all. We expected supplies three days ago certainly, but none has come. Willie went to the lake for water. We heard his gun and found he had shot two ducks. This is really a blessing, for we need something to live upon.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 6)
As we are thinking what we could do if no help came that day, Mr. Walling rode up. He brought us butter, and fine flour he had left upon the road, hidden back where he had left two horses barefooted for us to use over the rough road. We were rejoiced to see him. He stayed one night to fish. Willie and he went out and did not return till nine o’clock. Mr. Walling neither found game or caught fish. Willie caught fourteen of the largest trout I had seen. Sister Hall had been cooking all day and was ready for an early start in the morning. I could not help anyone, for I was sick.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 7)
Monday, October 6, 1873
We arose early and commenced preparations for our homeward journey. We packed all things on the wagon and Sister Hall, my husband, and myself rode and walked a little until we had traveled above twelve miles over very rough road, through woods of fallen timber. Willie rode an Indian pony. We halted to take dinner, but as we began to search for the bag of provisions we found by some means it had left us and we had no dinner except a pie and a small loaf of bread. We sent Willie back to find our bag of supplies, fearful he might have to return the entire distance.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 8)
We passed on, for we could not have our dinner until we should come to the horses by Frasier [?] River. The flour and some potatoes were hidden there for our use as we returned. We set up our little stove, cooked white gems in our gem pans, and cooked our fish and had a very good dinner. Here my husband and Sister Hall took two horses and rode the remainder of that day’s journey. We drove on and on and did not camp until nine o’clock. It took about two hours to pitch tent and take care of the horses for the night.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 9)
I could not sleep for thinking of Willie alone on the road and having twenty miles’ extra travel; but about twelve o’clock Willie came to camp, all safe, with the lost provisions. We felt very thankful that we had passed over many miles of the road in safety, without accident or harm. I had a long talk with Mr. Walling as I rode in the wagon with him. I felt some better than I expected, having been sick for some days. My husband stood the journey well. We were a tired company and some slept soundly, but I was too weary to sleep much.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 10)
Tuesday, October 7, 1873
This morning early we left our camp on the other side of the range, just as we entered the park. We were anxious to make an early start, that we could cross the range safely and journey to our homes the same night. My husband, Sister Hall, and myself were mounted upon horses. Mr. Walling came on after with our baggage in lumber wagon. We had a very pleasant ride, for it was a beautiful autumn day, as warm as summer. We ascended the steep rocky hills—up, up, up as fast as our horses could climb. We passed through brooks and gulches, up hill and down, for about six miles.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 11)
This brought us to the foot of the range. We there consulted what we should do—press on, or take a warm, cooked dinner. We left it all with Mr. Walling. His decision was for us to eat a hasty meal and, with as little delay as possible, hurry over the range. We did so, and did not regret it. We had an unusually pleasant time in crossing the range. There was no wind. The sun shone pleasantly upon us. We viewed the scenery as our horses toiled up the steep ascent. The works of God in nature as viewed by us on this journey were indeed wonderful. They surpass anything we have ever seen. We feel the deepest feelings of awe as we view this grand scenery.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 12)
We had passed the range but a couple of hours when there was an appearance of storm. Thick clouds began to gather, and we hastened on as fast as our team could carry us. Before we reached home the clouds were very dark. The wind blew dust and dirt, and blinded us so that we could not see. The lightenings flashed and we were threatened with a fearful storm. However, we arrived safely at home [before the storm broke]. It was a storm of wind and rain and snow.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 13)
Found Mr. Glover and his wife and his father at our house. We had a pleasant interview. We were all glad to get to rest in good season, as we had only about three hours sleep the night before. We were very thankful we were in our comfortable home and not in camp on the other side of the range.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 14)
Wednesday, October 8, 1873 [Walling’s Mills, Colorado,]
We rested well during the night. It was quite a luxury to rest upon a bed, for we had not done this for twenty-three nights. We feel very thankful that we are at home. There is a severe storm of wind, uprooting trees and even tumbling over out-houses. The sand and gravel are carried by the wind with considerable violence against the windows, and are coming in at the crevices, covering bed and bedding, furniture and floors. Yesterday when we crossed the range it was warm as summer, but this morning we see the mountain range is covered with snow. Today we sent the conference address to Battle Creek as directed by Brother Loughborough. We also sent minutes of the conference as he requested. I sent a couple of pages to Sister Lampson with a letter from a sister for dress pattern. Mr. Walling took breakfast with us. Sister Hall went to Mrs. Laskey’s for the two children of Mr. Walling, Addie and May. They are again with us.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 15)
Thursday, October 9, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We have a beautiful day today. Eli Glover and his wife left us today. My husband and Willie took them to Black Hawk in the spring wagon. Lucinda did a large wash, not in accordance with my judgment. I spent much of my time in writing.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 16)
Friday, October 10, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
We have another beautiful day. I wrote a long letter to Leutha [?] Butler. Wrote some upon temptation of Christ. My husband contemplated going to Battle Creek. I had some freedom in secret prayer and felt the assurance that the Lord would help me and give me His grace. My husband and I rode out just before the Sabbath. Brother Glover is with us yet.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 17)
Sabbath, October 11, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
Another beautiful day. It is the holy Sabbath. A portion of the day we devoted to prayer and to writing. We cried earnestly to God to know our duty in reference to Battle Creek. My husband felt very clear that it was not his duty at present to go to Battle Creek, but wait right where we are and let God direct us. We are both in harmony with this.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 18)
Sunday, October 12, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
Again we are blest with beautiful weather. There is some wind. Willie left us for Michigan today to attend school. His father and I took him in spring wagon to Black Hawk. We felt sad to part with him. On our way to Black Hawk we met a funeral procession. The first hack stopped and Mrs. Johnson introduced me to Mrs. Parker. She stated that Mr. Parker died last Friday and it was his body they were following to the depot to be conveyed to his friends. Sad, sad indeed! This wife and two little girls had come to Colorado only to see the husband and father breathe his last. We received letters from Michigan. Addie Merriam wrote that a physician in town had told her father there were seven hundred down sick in Battle Creek and vicinity. Emily Colvin had just breathed her last. Little Annie Smith was very sick. Her father had been sent for from Grand Rapids.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 19)
Monday, October 13, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It is rather cold—more so than we expected for this time of year in Colorado. It seems lonely without Willie. My husband and Sister Hall and I took Mr. Walling’s children to Boulder to see their mother. We did not have a very pleasant visit on account of much talk about small matters in a jealous, irritated manner. We returned with the children about dark. May sang all the way home. She was very happy. Mr. Walling and Mr. Laskey were there. They were at the old Mill.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 20)
Tuesday, October 14, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
My husband and Brother Glover rode up to Mr. Walling’s Mill on business. Mr. Walling said he would come down and see us. He called in a few moments. We had a little conversation. Said he would call when he returned. He drove by so late in the night he did not stop.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 21)
Wednesday, October 15, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It is rather cold and windy.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 22)
Saturday, October 18, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It is a rather cold and windy day. The wind increases, making it very unpleasant. I arose with the headache. We walked out and prayed in the grove. I wrote an important matter for Pilot Grove church. My husband wrote to Battle Creek for paper. I read some to the children. It is rather difficult for them to keep quiet. We had a very precious season of prayer at the close of the Sabbath.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 23)
Sunday, October 19, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It is rather cold today. We rode up to Mr. Walling’s Mills. Called on Mr. Laskey. We had an important interview with Mr. Walling and also with Mr. and Mrs. Laskey. We returned about noon. We walked out and had an interesting season of prayer.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 24)
Monday, October 20, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It is very pleasant this morning; seems very much like a summer’s day. We had some important writing to do, which kept my husband busily at it until time to take his seat in the wagon. We took Sister Hall and Addie and May Walling with us. We ate our dinner on the way to Black Hawk. The day was very mild and the children enjoyed the ride very much. We traded some in Black Hawk and in Central. We did not get home until after sundown. We received several letters from Brother Butler—one to myself and one to my husband. We also received an excellent letter from Brother Judson. My husband wrote letters after he returned home. Sat up quite late answering letters.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 25)
Tuesday, October 21, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It is rather a cold day. We had a good season of prayer as usual, then commenced our day’s labor. I washed the dishes and then sudsed out, rinsed, and hung upon the line a large washing. I feel desirous that my heart should be cleansed thoroughly from all iniquity. Mr. Walling called. We invited him to remain a short time and ride with us to Black Hawk. We had letters for Review to go into the mail. We took our dinner on the way in our carriage.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 26)
When we returned it was very cold, and when we were half way home in snowed very hard. We suffered some with cold. We read our letters after we had become warm and my husband wrote until quite late, answering the letters received. We received letters from Elder Loughborough and Willie White. I called on Mrs. Johnson and met Sister Lee there. We had some important conversation in regard to her spending the winter in Battle Creek.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 27)
Wednesday, October 22, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It is like a cold January morning. The snow lies upon the ground six inches deep. We were busily engaged in writing and sending answers to letters just received. My husband sent a long letter to Brother Butler to Mount Pleasant. Brother Glover went on horseback to the office at Black Hawk.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 28)
Thursday, October 23, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It is a cold day, but we decided to go to Black Hawk and send a telegram to Battle Creek to have General Conference appointed November 14-18. We sent the dispatch. We took our dinner to Sister Bental’s. We had hot water to drink with our cold crackers. We purchased some needful things at Central. As we were returning it was very cold and commenced snowing. We received a letter from Dr. Merriam.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 29)
Friday, October 24, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It is cold and stormy. Everything looks wintry. We have been consulting in regard to [its] being duty to go to General Conference. We decided it was best for me to go and my husband not to venture. Brother Glover went to Black Hawk with mail. We were disappointed in not receiving the Review. But again we were happily disappointed in receiving the Review brought by Mr. Likens [?]. At the commencement of the Sabbath we had a most precious season of prayer. We felt like earnestly entreating the Lord to arouse and strengthen His people, and we believe He will hear our prayers. The blessing of God came to us as we were praying. Brother Glover was much blessed. He praised the Lord as in good old times. We feel like trusting in God.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 30)
Sabbath, October 25, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
This morning we feel the peace of God in our hearts, and have a settled determination to have more perfect trust in God. It is a stormy, snowy day. The wind makes it very unpleasant. My husband and I looked over our manuscript for Spiritual Gifts [Spirit of Prophecy], Volume II. We felt that the matter in reference to the temptation of Christ in the wilderness was of the highest importance to our people and that they should have it as soon as possible.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 31)
Sunday, October 26, 1873 [Walling’s Mills,]
It continues to snow and blow. This is a most terrible storm. Brother Glover went to Black Hawk with mail. My husband wrote a long letter to the picked men at Battle Creek—to Brethren Andrews, Smith and Waggoner. I had some liberty in writing upon the temptation of Christ. A gentleman who was traveling called. He wanted to stay all night. He said he had not seen such a storm for twenty years. In the evening a traveler called, blinded and benumbed by cold and wind. He was on foot and had nearly perished coming over Dory Hill. He swore roundly about the weather.
(2LtMs, Ms 12, 1873, 32)
Ms 13, 1873
Diary, November 1873 NP November 5 - November 18, 1873 Portions of this manuscript are published in 3SM 265; 3MR 172; 5MR 295; 11MR 124-125. Wednesday, November 5, 1873 [Golden City, Colorado,]
We are at Golden City. We leave this morning. Our visit here has been very pleasant, and we hope profitable. Mr. Laskey takes us down in the wagon to Denver. Mr. Walling drove up on horseback.
(2LtMs, Ms 13, 1873, 1)
Thursday, November 6, 1873 [Denver, Colorado,]
We are at Denver. We are preparing to leave on the train at six o’clock tonight. Mrs. Walling is in a very troubled state of mind. She has pursued her course of fretting and scolding her husband and children until she has weaned his affections from her. He insists that the children shall go with us to California. The mother reluctantly consented. Little May had a little fretish turn, but I was firm and yet gentle with her before her father and mother and it passed over very well. The mother feels bad. May God show her the error of her ways before it shall be too late. Mr. Walling attended us to the cars and parted with us and his children. The children are perfectly happy with us.
(2LtMs, Ms 13, 1873, 2)
Friday, November 7, 1873 [En route to Battle Creek,]
We had a portion of night’s rest. The Legislature sits in Cheyenne, which fills the hotels. No room for us to have bed until two o’clock; then some beds were vacated. We had good rest when we did retire. My husband felt his mind turned to Battle Creek. We consulted together and decided to go to Battle Creek and send Sister Hall on with the little children. To this she agreed cheerfully. We arranged our trunks and parted, Sister Hall going to California and we turning our course to Battle Creek. About two o’clock we saw Sister Hall on board the train for California. Then we shortly took our seats in the cars for the East. We felt that we were moving in the counsel of God.
(2LtMs, Ms 13, 1873, 3)
Sabbath, November 8, 1873
We rested well on the car during the night. We were unwilling to report ourselves on the cars this morning, but circumstances connected with the cause and work of God demand our presence at the General Conference. We could not delay. If we were doing our own business we should feel it a breach of the fourth commandment to travel on the Sabbath. We engaged in no common conversation. We endeavored to keep our minds in a devotional frame and we enjoyed some of the presence of God while we deeply regretted the necessity of traveling upon the Sabbath.
(2LtMs, Ms 13, 1873, 4)
Sunday, November 9, 1873
We rested well during the night. By having the window open in our berth we had plenty of fresh air and enjoyed our rest very much. Had conversation in the morning with a Frenchman in regard to Christ being the Son of God.
(2LtMs, Ms 13, 1873, 5)
On the cars between Omaha and Chicago we had conversation with a Jew. He had urged his conversation on different ones. He was sharp and they could not answer him. He came to me and pressed his conversation upon me. I met him with Scripture—the sure word of prophecy in regard to the coming One—and brought him down to His veritable coming and His bearing the test in the wilderness of temptation.
(2LtMs, Ms 13, 1873, 6)
Monday, November 10, 1873
We had accommodations at a hotel at Niles. We had a good clean bed and slept well. Took breakfast at the hotel. At nine o’clock we took the cars for Battle Creek. We arrived at Battle Creek about twelve o’clock. Our friends met us at the depot. We rode up to our old home. Brother Abbey was keeping open doors. Rosette and Lillie were with their parents, getting their mother ready to go to California. We were joyfully received. Our long journey was ended. Sister Abbey has been very sick, but she was much better and fast gaining strength for her journey.
(2LtMs, Ms 13, 1873, 7)
We are heartily welcomed here. The state of the cause demands our influence at this time.
(2LtMs, Ms 13, 1873, 8)
Tuesday, November 11, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
We have slept again in our own bed in our old home. We rested well. It is cold and stormy today. We feel rather wearied with our journey. We took cold on the journey and are not as well as usual. We walked down to the office and were glad to meet our friends again. Sisters Simonton, Charmberlain, Lampson, Gaskill, and Ings called. We had pleasant conversation. It was gratifying to be among those who have proved us.
(2LtMs, Ms 13, 1873, 9)
In the evening the brethren met at our house—Brethren Waggoner, Smith and Andrews and Butler. We had very profitable talk of our present state and the importance of perfect union in our labors. Talked over past matters of differences with great profit. We had a good season of prayer. Brother Salisbury called upon us. We had a pleasant interview.
(2LtMs, Ms 13, 1873, 10)
Wednesday, November 12, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is cold, cloudy, and snowing. We took breakfast with Brother Abbey’s family. I looked after the things in our house to see what I needed to take to California. I took a bath before dinner. A cold troubles me some. Sister [Ann] Kellogg called upon me. We had a pleasant visit. I called on Sister Gaskill. My husband and myself took dinner with them. We met Brother Brownsberger. Had a very pleasant interview. Brother Butler called. We had some conversation of profit. Had some talk with Brother Kellogg. Walked to the office and was cordially received by all I met. [The] brethren mentioned met again at our house. I talked some in regard to what I had written in reference to the temptation of Christ. All seemed deeply interested and the effect was unquestionably good. We prayed and parted, hoping that the interview was profitable to all.
(2LtMs, Ms 13, 1873, 11)
Thursday, November 13, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is cloudy and cold; snowing. I wrote in forenoon twenty-one pages to Elder Canright. Took dinner at Sister Ings. Brother Brownsberger and Willie took dinner with us. I read to Sisters Gaskill and Ings what I had written. Rode out with Willie to find Mr. Latty’s people to make them a call, and tell them we had seen their daughter who married Eli Glover. She, with her husband, occupied our house while we were over in the Park at Grand Lake. We could not find the family. They had moved in the city. We were cold and returned home. We look with earnest desire to California. We dread this tediously cold weather.
(2LtMs, Ms 13, 1873, 12)
Brother Andrews has come to the conference.
(2LtMs, Ms 13, 1873, 13)
In evening Brethren Butler and Haskell met at our house. Read to them what I had written Brother Canright. We had praying season and felt weary enough to retire.
(2LtMs, Ms 13, 1873, 14)
Friday, November 14, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
It is a beautiful day. We walked to the office. Met Brother Mears.
(2LtMs, Ms 13, 1873, 15)
Conference opened well. Brother Matteson is speaking upon the incidents connected with souls embracing the truth. Speaks of a man in Denmark on the point of embracing the truth. We met Sister Sawyer and Carmen and many of our friends who greeted us warmly. Elder Himes called at the Health Institute. He sent to have an interview with us. He has the ague. He is on his way to dedicate a meetinghouse. He attended our meeting in the afternoon of Friday. My husband spoke upon the reasons of our faith. His text was from Daniel. He explained the disappointment in forty-four.
(2LtMs, Ms 13, 1873, 16)
Monday, November 17, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
Session of conference in forenoon. In afternoon had a conference meeting. My husband talked very plainly. Brother Smith heartily responded and confessions were made by many which brought freedom into the meeting. My husband seemed quite free. We can see there is some progress to the light. We praise God for any advance. We had Mr. Firnk [?] to sit at our table with us. Had pleasant interview. Received letter from Lucinda. She arrived safely in San Francisco. Had a talk with Marcus Lichtenstein and Father Butler. Myron Cornell and Cornelia called upon us.
(2LtMs, Ms 13, 1873, 17)
Tuesday, November 18, 1873 [Battle Creek,]
I have written letters to Lucinda and Edson and Sister Milaner [?]. I then engaged in writing testimonies. I called upon Brother Gardner. Walked to the office. Heard Marcus Lichtenstein. Went home and had an interview with Marcus. Took dinner at Brother Lindsay’s. Had a pleasant visit. Met with the brethren in meeting. Read testimony for Brother Ings. He accepted it. Many testimonies were borne and there seems to be a strong desire to press to the light. Box received from Iowa. Postal card from Lucinda, just on her way to Santa Rosa.
(2LtMs, Ms 13, 1873, 18)