It seems proper that I should say a few words in addition to what has been written respecting this meeting. I feel an intense desire that it shall prove a success and a great blessing to the cause in this young Conference. Whether this shall be the case seems to rest, to a large extent at least, with our brethren and sisters themselves. We have been favored in a most remarkable degree in securing a fine location for the meeting, and most favorable arrangements generally. The Erie R. R., on which the grounds are situated, has given us special rates of fare lower than it usually gives for such meetings, and other roads have granted us greater favors even than we expected. So far as these things are concerned we can never expect to be more highly favored than at the present time.
More than all this, we have the promise of the most efficient help from abroad. We know that if any consideration of this kind will stir our brethren to attend the meeting it is the assurance that Bro. and Sr. White will be present with us to labor for the interest of the meeting. And we are rejoiced to see, by the last REVIEW, that Eld. Geo. I. Butler, who has not been at our camp-meetings in this State for years, will be present. We are sure his labors will be appreciated. Under these circumstances we feel that we have every reason to appeal to our brethren throughout our Conference not to let this opportunity pass without making special efforts to enjoy the benefits of this meeting.
We make this appeal not because we do not expect a good attendance, because of this we are already well assured; but because we do not want any that ought to come to stay away. Brethren, come to this meeting and bring your children and neighbors with you. We owe it to ourselves and to the cause of God with which we are connected, that we come to this feast of tabernacles, and seek by the help of the Lord and of his servants a better preparation for the work in which we are engaged. Do not suffer trifles to keep you away. Time is short, and we certainly all need the benefit of such a meeting as this. If the times are hard, there is no prospect that they will be better; and surely we ought to be thankful that the Lord has so favorably prepared the way that we may come now. We wish the brethren of Western and Central N. Y. to consider this their camp-meeting. As the N. Y. Conference is to be held in connection with it, we shall expect a large attendance from these sections of the State, and a full delegation from the northern part. Without doubt this will be the largest meeting ever held by Seventh-day Adventists in the State. Again we say to all, Come to the meeting, and try to bring the Lord with you.
In this connection we would call attention to Bro. Butler's article in REVIEW No. 11, and ask you to re-read it, and then carry out the suggestions as to being on the ground at the commencement and staying till the close. We especially request that all the delegates to the Conference, and as many others as can, come prepared to stay until Thursday of the week the meeting closes. This is absolutely important in consideration of the amount of business to be done. Lastly, we ask those who cannot come to pray that the special blessing of God may be with us in the meeting, to be carried with us to our homes so that it may prove a great blessing to the cause in our Conference.
All mail for the Hornellsville meeting should be marked Belknap’s Park, which will insure its prompt delivery on the ground.
B. L. WHITNEY.
CAMP-MEETINGS
By J. Clarke
Can I go to this camp-meeting? Can I leave home so long? Who will see to the farm, the stock, etc.? Better reverse the order, and say, Can I miss this camp-meeting? Can I stay away? Can I afford to lose my interest in the present truth, and probably lose my hold on God? Can we not trust our temporal affairs in the hands of the Lord, while we join the company of those who go up to seek him? Many a village, city, town, and hamlet was left alone when the good old Israelites went up to keep the passover; yet no thief or armed band molested their homes at such times. Perhaps sickness or misfortune may come upon such as stay away from the meeting; and staying away from the meeting to see to home interests may result in temporal as well as spiritual loss. Bro. Luke-warm tried the excuse of home cares, and absented himself; but he was prostrated by illness during the whole time of the meeting. He thinks that to slight such privileges results in great loss.
As soon as the subject is introduced we should begin to prepare for the meeting, and pray to God to remove whatever may hinder, and to supply whatever we may need. We may confidently say, I will go if the way is opened; and we should absent ourselves for none but good reasons. J. CLARKE.
TO EVERY SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST
By D. A. Robinson
IN THE N. E. CONFERENCE,
These words are addressed, with the hope that all will heartily take hold of the work with energy and zeal. Those who attended our late camp-meeting are aware of the fact that at that meeting a State (Conference) Health and Temperance Association was formed, having for its object, 1. The promotion of the health of its members; 2. The advancement of the interests of the cause of temperance in its truest and broadest sense, by the circulation of health and temperance literature, by securing popular lectures upon those subjects in various parts of the country, and by the wide circulation of suitable pledges, and earnest efforts to secure numerous signers.
Nearly every church in the Conference was represented at the camp-meeting, and it was gratifying to see our brethren and sisters so generally take hold of the work. On Sunday morning, when the people were assembled under the large tent, about a dozen brethren and sisters passed around with pledge papers, and solicited signers thereto. The result was that over two hundred signed the teetotal pledge.
WHAT IS WANTED NOW.
1. Let all our brethren and sisters take an interest in this matter immediately. Let this interest be manifested by signing the pledge yourselves, and urging others to do the same.
2. Let each church or company that has not a solicitor already, appoint some one to solicit signers to the pledges.
3. The one thus appointed should be a person of tact, energy, and perseverance, and he should see that every S. D. Adventist in the vicinity, old and young, is invited to become a full member of the association. The point before us now is to secure the co-operation of every one in this Conference. This done, steps will be taken to form local societies throughout the Conference.
Who will take hold of this matter at once? What churches will take the lead? Brethren and sisters, do not stop to criticise the move and question the practicability of such a course; but take hold of it with both hands, and do it now. Reserve your criticisms till the results are seen, and it may be you will be spared the trouble of making them.
Let us take one long step, and with all S. D. Adventists throughout the country take our position at the front on the temperance question. Have you a desire to break down the walls of prejudice between us and the outside world? If so, lay hold of this question and use it as a lever by which you may cause these walls to totter and fall.
“Those who are to prepare the way for the second coming of Christ are represented by faithful Elijah, as John came in the spirit of Elijah to prepare the way for his first advent. The great subject of reform is to be agitated, and the public mind is to be stirred. Temperance in all things is to be connected with the message, to turn the people of God from their idolatry, their gluttony, their extravagance in dress and other things. . . . God has shown that health reform [which is simply another name for true temperance] is as closely connected with the third angel’s message as the hand is united to the body.” How many of us will act as though we believed it. May God help us each to see and realize the full importance of this matter, and to act accordingly.
Each church and company will be furnished with a quantity of pledges. These we greatly desire to have presented to all. Any information desired that can be given will be gladly furnished. Address Eld. G. F. Haines, or myself, So. Lancaster, Mass.
D. A. ROBINSON, Pres. N. E. H. & T. A.
Jesus Has the Keys.
By B. F. M.
Long months ago our lovely child was torn from our embrace by death. We saw with aching hearts the work of the destroyer, but could not stay his power. The grave closed over her beautiful form. No earthly power could loose from death's embrace, nor earthly hand relieve our stricken hearts.
How sweet the promise then, “They shall come again from the land of the enemy.” And sweeter still the words of Christ, our Saviour, “All that are in the grave shall hear his voice and come forth.” And again, as from Patmos' lonely isle he sent messages to his people, “I have the keys of hell and of death.” Jesus holds the keys that will unlock the tomb. Blessed thought! We can intrust our loved ones with him. They will be released.
B. F. M.
KENTUCKY
By S. Osborn
Coral Hill, Sept. 9.—The interest at this place continues about the same. One was baptized last Sunday. We are now about half through canvassing the Sabbath question. There is but very little opposition, and many acknowledge the truth. S. OSBORN.
MICHIGAN
Mason, Sept. 8.—We have enjoyed much of the blessing of the Lord during the past week. On Sabbath the brethren came in from the surrounding country, and we had an excellent meeting. As new ones confessed the truth the Spirit of the Lord came into our midst with power, and hearts were melted into tenderness. We invited sinners and backsliders who desired the prayers of God's people to come forward, when some ten or twelve readily responded and we had an excellent season of prayer for them. It was truly refreshing. May the Lord carry on the good work here. The people are still interested. Last night our tent was filled. Pray for us. T. M. Steward. E. P. Daniels.
Edmore, Sept. 7.—Since my last report I have spent most of my time at this place. The interest has increased somewhat, and several are keeping the Sabbath. Have visited Cedar Lake and Stanton once each. At Cedar Lake there are indications of growth among the brethren, and a good outside interest. The meeting at Stanton was one of labor. We had Sabbath-school, preaching and social meeting. Then, the leader having moved away, another was chosen to fill the vacancy. The brethren voted a request to be taken under the watch-care of the Conference, and appointed a delegate to the Lyons camp-meeting to make known their request. They joined heartily in signing the S. B. pledge, and appointed an S. B. treasurer. Before this was all done the train had passed, leaving me to foot it eight miles to fill my appointment at Edmore. Orlando Soule.
South Haven, Tent No. 1.—For the past two weeks we have had to struggle against the persistent efforts of the ministers and their people to break up our meetings. The cold, stormy weather has also seriously affected the interest. Indeed, so cold and damp has it been the greater part of the time that but few could attend without suffering. One sermon has been preached against the Sabbath. It was a weak effort. I was never in a place where such unreasonable prejudice prevailed as here. There are some who are very friendly, supplying our wants and contributing toward our expenses. Our running expenses will be nearly met by the close of the meeting.
The truth will not be left without witnesses here. Some eight or ten have decided to obey. Some of these are now holding responsible places in the churches of this place. E. R. Jones.
INDIANA
Sevastopol, Tent No. 1. Sept. 8.—The interest in our meetings continues. We held our first Sabbath meeting last Sabbath, at which forty were present. Some took part in the meeting, several keeping their first Sabbath. It made quite a change in the village,—a merchant left his store, the shoemaker, harness maker, and the undertaker, closed their shops. Men came from the country with work, but were told they could not get it done till the next day. We are of good courage.
S. H. LANE.
W. W. SHARP.
Arcadia and Cicero, Tent No. 3.—Since removing the tent from Arcadia we have continued meetings there twice each week. Have sold $25.00 worth of books, received $14.42 in donations, and obtained fifteen subscribers for our periodicals, besides a club of ten for the Instructor. We have organized there a Sabbath-school of thirty members, and hope to be able to organize a small church soon.
The interest at Cicero is not good, but we hope for some favorable results from our efforts. Two have signed the covenant since we came here, and we have hope of others.
Sept. 8.
WM. COVERT.
J. P. HENDERSON.
MASSACHUSETTS
By M. Wood
Worcester.—In answer to inquiries relative to the Sabbath-school work in this place, I would say for the encouragement of all connected with and engaged in this noble enterprise, that God has blessed the work here far beyond our most sanguine expectations. We came to this place about six months ago, in company with Bro. Palmer, and in this city of over 41,000 inhabitants we found but four persons keeping the Sabbath according to the commandment. About two months ago our Sabbath-school was organized, with a membership of nine, Bro. G. F. Richmond superintendent.
The school has gradually increased in interest and numbers. Yesterday (Sept. 6) there were twenty persons present, nineteen of whom were Sabbath-keepers. All manifested a lively interest in the Sabbath-school lessons. Special efforts are made to interest and instruct the children. Our penny collections range from 40 cents to $1.00; this is certainly a very promising feature in the S. S. work.
Our social meetings are of deep interest, nearly all taking part. Much interest is manifested in the missionary work; all seem encouraged to work on and pray on until the Master shall come. The best of feeling prevails, and our prayer is that brotherly love may continue. We desire the prayers of God’s people, that the work may be carried forward in such a manner as to meet the mind of the Spirit of God. M. WOOD.
NEW ENGLAND CONFERENCE.
By George I. Butler; D. A. Robinson
The ninth annual session of the N. E. Conference of S. D. Adventists was held according to appointment on the camp-ground at Ballard Vale, Mass., Aug. 28, 1879. The president being absent, the meeting was called to order by the secretary. Prayer was offered by Eld. Geo. I. Butler. Twenty-three churches and unorganized companies were represented by twenty-eight delegates. Two churches not reported. Eld. Butler was chosen president pro tem. All brethren in good standing were invited to take part in the deliberations of the Conference. The church at Norfolk, Conn., was taken into the Conference, and Bro. S. J. Twing invited to act as delegate.
The report of the last annual session was read and approved. Moved and carried that the Chair, assisted by the secretary, appoint the various committees. The following were announced at a subsequent meeting: On nominations, Judson Rice, W. B. Mason, and George Murphy; on auditing, Wm. B. Mason, H. C. Nye, J. Webber, Judson Rice, H. P. Wakefield, and Bruce Graham; on credentials and licenses, H. C. Nye, S. A. Farnsworth, and F. W. Mace; on resolutions, W. C. White, C. W. Comings, and G. F. Haines.
Adjourned to call of Chair.
SECOND MEETING, Aug. 31, 5 P. M. Prayer by the secretary. Minutes of last meeting read and approved.
The report of the committee on nominations being called for, the following was presented: For president, Eld. S. N. Haskell; secretary, Eld. D. A. Robinson; treasurer, H. C. Nye; executive committee, S. N. Haskell, C. W. Comings, and J. C. Tucker; camp-meeting committee, H. C. Nye, H. P. Wakefield, and E. G. Bolter. The above nominations were then ratified by vote of the Conference.
The committee on credentials and licenses reported, recommending that credentials be renewed to Elds. Haskell, Orcutt, and Robinson; that licenses be renewed to G. F. Haines, E. T. Bedee, M. Wood, F. A. Buzzell, and L. W. Hastings; and that Bro. James B. Mason be granted a license to improve his gift. This report was adopted.
Pointed remarks were made by the president on the subject of granting licenses. The strictest economy should be observed in the use of means. Men just starting out should not rely on the Conference treasury, but the chief object should be to succeed as efficient laborers in the cause and work of God.
W. C. White, chairman of committee on resolutions, presented the following:—
Whereas, The subject of true temperance has been one of the means under God of spreading the light of present truth, and
Whereas, We believe this to be a work connected with the third angel’s message, therefore
Resolved, That we enter more earnestly into this branch of the work, and show ourselves true temperance reformers by a hearty co-operation in the present movement, and by the organization of a State [Conference] and local temperance societies.
Resolved, That we will faithfully carry out the tithing system as recommended by the General Conference.
Resolved, That we greatly rejoice in the privilege of meeting Bro. and Sr. White and listening to their words of counsel and admonition; and we would express to them our sincere thanks for their faithful labors during this meeting.
Adjourned to call of Chair.
THIRD MEETING, Sept. 1, 6 P. M. Prayer by Eld. Haines. Stirring remarks were made by Eld. White on the importance of our young men preparing themselves to act a part in the work of God. The learning and eloquence of a Paul came in at the right time to meet the opposing elements against the truth of God. Wesley was called on to the stage of action when he was needed. Our brains were made to be used; and especially in such a time as this all should use them to the glory of God. The Battle Creek College was referred to as eminently worthy of the patronage of our people, and as being peculiarly adapted to meet the wants of persons desiring to give themselves to the work of God. After remarks by Bro. Butler on the same question, the following resolution was adopted:—
Resolved, 1. That it is the sense of this Conference that there should be an educational relief fund raised in the Conference, to aid worthy men and women to educate themselves for home and foreign missionaries.
2. That this fund be raised by donations of sums of not less than one dollar; and by loans for three years, without interest, of sums of not less than ten dollars.
3. That the fund so raised be controlled by a board of three trustees, to be elected by the Conference, one for one year, one for two years, and one for three years; so that hereafter there shall be one elected annually, to hold his office for three years.
4. That the duties of these trustees be as follows: first, to encourage as many as possible to avail themselves of the advantages of our College at Battle Creek; secondly, to decide who need aid from this fund, and are worthy of it; also who shall be helped by loans, and who by donations, and to what extent in each case; thirdly, to report annually to the Conference, all receipts, expenses, and disbursements, which report shall be submitted to the auditor appointed by the Conference. A vote of thanks was then tendered Sr. Morton for her faithful labors in furnishing reports for the press; and to the leading journals of the State, for publishing so extended reports of our meeting.
Voted, To pay one tithe of our s. b. to the General Conference.
Adjourned sine die.
GEO. I. BUTLER, Pres. pro tem.
D. A. ROBINSON, Sec.
ILLINOIS CONFERENCE.
By R. F. Andrews; Nettie F. Craig
THE Conference held its ninth annual session at Bloomington, Ill., in connection with the camp-meeting, Aug. 27 to Sept. 2, 1879.
Conference convened Aug. 27, at 5 o’clock P. M., G. W. Colcord in the chair. Prayer by Eld. J. F. Ballenger. Twenty-three churches and one unorganized company were represented by twenty-seven delegates.
Voted, That Eld. D. T. Bourdeau, of the Vermont Conference, and all S. D. Adventists in good standing, participate in the deliberations of this Conference.
Report of last annual meeting read and approved.
Voted, That the Carbondale, Du Quoin, Gibson City, and Pittwood churches be admitted into the Conference, and the company at Clinton be taken under the watchcare of the same.
The Chair, having been previously authorized, appointed the following committees: On resolutions, R. F. Andrews, D. T. Bourdeau, and Lewis Johnson; on nominations, Alfred Nettleingham, M. L. Kittle, and L. O. Stowell; on credentials and licenses, L. A. Logan, W. A. Doyal, and J. W. Tait; auditing committee, J. H. Bates, J. H. Bennett, John Ely, Wm. Erb, A. J. Scott, J. E. Atchison.
Remarks by Elds. Andrews, Bourdeau, and others, on the propriety of districting the State for ministerial labor.103
Voted, That the State be districted.
A letter relating to work among the Swedes, from J. D. Swanson, of Battle Creek, Mich., was then introduced and read.
Adjourned to call of Chair.
SECOND MEETING, Aug. 28, 5 P. M. Opened by singing and prayer. Thirty-one delegates responded to call of roll.
Voted, That Eld. A. O. Burrill be invited to participate in the deliberations of this Conference.
Voted, To approve of the action of our president in ordering one-tenth of our Conference fund to be paid to the General Conference, and that we continue to do so in future.
Report of ministerial committee read.
Voted, That G. W. Colcord, R. F. Andrews, C. H. Bliss, Lewis Johnson, B. F. Merritt, J. F. Ballenger, T. M. Steward, and G. F. Shonk receive credentials; and that Brn. A. A. John, A. H. Cleaves, C. H. Foster, J. B. Logan, E. O. Hammond, J. C. Wright, J. D. Swanson, and James Willoughby receive licenses.
Adjourned to call of Chair.
THIRD MEETING. Prayer by Eld. D. T. Bourdeau. Remarks by Eld. Bourdeau upon the consolidation of the French Kankakee church with the St. Anne church.
Voted, That the former be disbanded, and its name dropped from the Conference.
The nominating committee reported, and the following officers were elected for the ensuing year: For president, R. F. Andrews, Gilman, Iroquois Co., Ill.; secretary, Mrs. N. F. Craig, Cherry Valley, Winnebago Co.; treasurer, John Carlock, Watseka, Coles Co.; executive committee, R. F. Andrews, C. H. Bliss, and George Foreman.
Voted, That we express our gratitude for the faithful services of Bro. and Sr. G. W. Colcord during the past four years; and that we will support our newly elected officers in their labors, and work in harmony with them for the upbuilding of the cause of God in our Conference during the coming year.
Adjourned to call of Chair.
FOURTH MEETING, Sept. 1, 5 o’clock P. M. Prayer by A. A. John. After listening to interesting and instructive remarks on the subject of camp-meetings,
Voted, That we have a general camp-meeting in 1880, time and place to be left to the decision of the Conference and camp-meeting committees.
The committee on resolutions offered the following:—
Resolved, That in view of the great importance the Scriptures attach to the financial support of the gospel, and the pressing wants of the cause, we earnestly invite our brethren everywhere to heartily adopt the tithing system, and conscientiously carry it out.
Resolved, That it is the duty of all our young men and women, and especially those who intend to bear a part in the closing work of the third angel’s message, to make an earnest effort to obtain such an education as will qualify them to successfully labor in the cause; and that it is the duty of our people to encourage them, and, if necessary, help them so to do.
Resolved, That we heartily approve of and adopt the resolutions with reference to an educational relief fund lately passed by some of our Conferences under sanction of some of our leading experienced brethren; to wit,
Resolved, 1. That it is the sense of this Conference that there should be an educational relief fund raised in the State to aid worthy men and women to educate themselves for home and foreign missionaries.
2. That this fund be raised by donations of sums of not less than one dollar; and by loans for three years, without interest, of sums of not less than ten dollars.
3. That the sum so raised be controlled by a board of three trustees to be elected by the Conference, one for one year, one for two years, and one for three years; so that hereafter there shall be one elected annually, to hold his office for three years.
4. That the duties of these trustees be as follows: first, to encourage as many as possible to avail themselves of the advantages of our College at Battle Creek; secondly, to decide who need aid from this fund, and are worthy of it, and who shall be helped by loans, and who by donations, and to what extent in each case; thirdly, to report annually to the Conference all receipts, expenses, and disbursements, which report shall be submitted to the auditor appointed by the Conference.
Voted, That the president act as auditor for the coming year.
Voted, That the following persons serve as trustees; R. F. Andrews for one year; John Bates for two years; and John Bennett for three years.
Adjourned to call of Chair.
FIFTH MEETING, Sept. 2, 10 P. M. Prayer by Eld. Burrill.
Voted, That all of our ministers be appointed agents to solicit subscriptions for the educational fund. The matter of raising money to complete the Oakland meeting-house, and to assist in erecting one at Du Quoin, was discussed.
Voted, That it be left to the ministers having charge of those sections.
Voted, That the camp-meeting committee for 1880 consist of Geo. Foreman, A. Crav, and Benj. Mallernee.
On motion, a vote of thanks was tendered to the authorities of the city of Bloomington for the free use of water, also to the citizens for their respectful bearing and quiet behavior while on the grounds.
Voted, That our thanks be tendered to Eld. A. O. Burrill for his timely presence and faithful labors.
Voted, That the camp-meeting committee have the thanks of this Conference for the untiring zeal with which they have performed their duties.
Resolved, That a vote of thanks be extended to the I. C. R. R. for favorable rates of transportation.
The secretary reports as follows: Whole number of churches, 34; No. of members at commencement of year, 487; No. at present, 676; No. of S. S. scholars, 777; No. paying tithes, 353; amount of tithes paid for current year ending Sept. 2, 1879, $3084 28.
No. of ordained ministers, 9; licentiates, 11. According to previous vote, Dennis Morrison was ordained to the Christian ministry.
Adjourned sine die.
R. F. ANDREWS, Pres.
NETTIE F. CRAIG, Sec.
THE GUIDING HAND.
By Eliza H. Morton
The way is dark, I cannot see
The hand of love that guideth me;
My eyes are full of unshed tears,
My heart-strings throb with gloomy fears.
My will is crossed at every turn,
And bitter lessons oft I learn;
The path in life I fain would tread
Is not the one in which I'm led.
My pride marks out a pleasant road;
I'm made to bear a heavy load.
Stern duty points to cross and crown,
And bids me lay no burden down.
I'm human, Lord, and flesh is weak;
Thou art divine, thy aid I seek.
O scatter clouds, false hopes dispel,
And teach me that thy ways are well.
O thoughts that tend to earthly bliss!
Ye turn to gall and bitterness.
Vain glory, pomp and worldly lore!
Ye pass away to come no more.
O may my heart be stayed on Thee,
Thou Rock to whom all ages flee!
Thy will, O may I understand,
And ne'er distrust thy guiding hand!
ELIZA H. MORTON.
ILLINOIS
By D. T. Bourdeau
Hoopeston, Sept. 8.—I came from the Bloomington camp-meeting to this place, a village of about 2,000 inhabitants, and with the aid of French brethren pitched the tent immediately. I spoke twice yesterday (Sunday), to about 200 persons. I speak here in English. There is a family of our converts from Pittwood who are living here. Our address is, for the present, Hoopeston, Vermillion Co., Ill. D. T. BOURDEAU.
IOWA
By J. Bartlett
Blencoe, Sept. 9.—I have not reported since the camp-meeting at Dunlap. Closed the meeting near Magnolia, leaving an organized church of twelve members. One-half of them were Sabbath-keepers before. Others will unite with them soon. Sickness prevented some from being at the meeting. Two were baptized on Sunday in Soldier Creek. Organized a Sabbath-school. The brethren and sisters all take a great interest in this work.
J. BARTLETT.
OHIO
By H. A. St. John
Clarksfield, Sept. 8.—Meetings still continue here, and the interest, we think, is increasing. We feel deeply anxious for this people. We pray that God may give the increase. We are now in the midst of the Sabbath question. Bro. Mann has been called to assist Bro. Canright, which leaves me alone here in preaching. Bro. Beebe is a good tent master, and may assist some in speaking. Our courage is better since our camp-meeting. We labor in faith, and love, and hope. H. A. St. John.
KANSAS
By G. H. Rogers; E. L. Fortner
Osage City, Sept. 8.—The meetings in this place are well attended, and a growing interest is manifested. The friends invite us to meals and lodging whenever we can be away from the tent. The average attendance is from 125 to 300. Some express themselves as almost convinced both as to the advent and Sabbath, and we have not yet spoken on the Sabbath question. Have given nine discourses upon the subject of the advent. Will the brethren and sisters pray that God will open the hearts of the people to receive his blessed truth.
G. H. ROGERS.
E. L. FORTNER.
COLORADO
By J. O. Corliss
Denver.—We have now been in this city four weeks, and have canvassed the main points of our faith. Twenty-four are keeping the Sabbath, three or four of whom embraced the truth before we came. Others are considerably interested, some of whom we hope will yet obey.
We were glad to meet Eld. A. O. Burrill yesterday (Sept. 4), who came to join us in our labor. We expect to remove the tent Monday next to another quarter of the city, where we shall labor to build up those who have already received the truth, and to interest new ones. Those writing to any of the tent company, please address, Tent, cor. 21st and Arapahoe Streets, Denver, Col. J. O. CORLISS.
NEW YORK.
By Chas. B. Reynolds
Ogdensburg, Tent No. 1.—Shipped the tent to Carthage Sept. 8, after being here twelve weeks. Twenty-one have commenced to keep the Sabbath. Sept. 7, baptized twelve in the St. Lawrence River. The high sloping bank made it convenient for spectators. Not only was every available inch of ground and the long dock occupied, but two large lake steamboats were densely crowded, and a vast fleet of small boats on the river. Fully three thousand persons were present. A brother over seventy-five years old, who had never before made a profession, was with his wife buried in the watery grave. Notwithstanding the vast multitude, order prevailed, and solemn impressions were made on honest hearts.
It is conceded that the whole city has been thoroughly awakened to the truths of the last message. May the Lord give courage to the faint-hearted, who so freely acknowledge the truth, to obey; and may his blessing continue to rest upon the work here.
CHAS. B. REYNOLDS.
WISCONSIN
By O. A. Johnson; Andrew Christiansen
Warner Creek, Tent No. 4, Sept. 9.—We have been here about four weeks. The interest to hear has been good. Many have begun to investigate, and some have decided to obey. There has been some opposition. Last Sunday Eld. Hamilton (Disciple) came to fill his regular appointment, having sent word that he would speak on the state of the dead and on the Sabbath question. We offered him the use of the tent, which he accepted. He manifested a good Christian spirit. He made some bold assertions and challenged refutation; but when asked if he meant by his challenges that he wished to discuss those matters, he utterly refused, saying that he did not feel able to meet us. His sermons on the Sabbath and law were reviewed. Some were greatly confirmed in the truth; others became confused. As we continue to explain other points of truth, we hope that all the honest in heart will see clearly and obey.
O. A. JOHNSON.
ANDREW CHRISTIANSEN.
N. E. TEMPERANCE MEETING.
By D. A. Robinson; G. F. Haines
A MEETING was held at Ballard Vale, Sept. 1, for the purpose of organizing a State Health and Temperance Society. The meeting was opened with singing and prayer.
On motion, W. C. White was elected chairman, and F. A. Buzzell secretary pro tem.
The constitution recommended by the National Health and Temperance Association, in the organization of State societies, was then read and adopted.
On motion, the Chair appointed for a nominating committee, J. C. Tucker, O. W. Comings, and H. P. Wakefield.
Several persons were appointed as solicitors to canvass for pledges. As the result of this effort, 240 signed the teetotal pledge, 190 paying the initiation fee, and thus becoming full members. The society was permanently organized by the election of D. A. Robinson for president, and G. F. Haines Secretary.
At this meeting interesting remarks were made by W. C. White, on local clubs, and the importance of inducing others who are not of our faith to sign the pledge.