Hamilton Co., Iowa by R. M. Kilgore

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Oct 15, 1872

Hamilton Co., Iowa.

By R. M. Kilgore

On account of cold evenings, we were compelled to take the tent down on the 16th inst., and adjourn the meeting to the Hellen school-house. After storing the tent away safely in Bro. Ballard’s barn, near Hook’s Point, I began again on the 18th.

The meetings at Batch Grove were held under very unfavorable circumstances; the weather was against us, being too cold for tent-meetings; the farmers were busy threshing and haying; and besides these a prejudice had been raised against us previous to our arrival, by the Methodist minister on that circuit. As a consequence, the attendance was very small; yet for the benefit of those who were interested, I labored on as best I could until Sunday, Sept. 30.

While I was yet there, we were also favored with a discourse from the same source, who used the usual arguments (?) that are presented at such times to put down the plain and pointed truths of God’s word, because they are furnished with no better. He was not satisfied to vilify and misrepresent us, but with expletives both mean and vulgar, he made a raid upon God’s ancient memorial, thus putting no difference between the holy and profane, and closing his eyes while trying to blind those of his hearers against the Sabbath of the Lord. Eze. 22: 26.

His effort evidently failed to accomplish what he desired; for instead of creating enemies, it made us many friends, verifying the words of the apostle, who said: “For we can do nothing against the truth, but for the truth.” 2 Cor. 13: 8.

Our meeting closed with a better interest than at any previous time, and a unanimous vote was taken, inviting me back again at my earliest convenience. Three have commenced to keep the Sabbath, while others are under conviction. I obtained six subscribers for the REVIEW, and sold a few books, and gave away some.

Through the kindness and liberality of father Gensman and his son, we obtained a foothold here. When we were strangers, they took us in, and to their hospitality we were made welcome. These and others also have our thanks.

Met last Sabbath with friends of present truth at Hook’s Point. Though a rainy day, a goodly number were out, with whom I enjoyed a good meeting. I am glad to report progress among these dear friends, I do not know of one who has given up the truth here or at Homer. Seven more signed the covenant, making in all forty-one. To God be all the praise, for he has wrought wondrously.

This closed our labor in this county for the present, having been absent from home almost four months. I am now on my way home in company with my family, to prepare for the winter campaign.

R. M. KILGORE.

Swede Point, Boone Co., Iowa, Oct. 6, 1872.