My last report was written at Peterborough, N. H. From there I went to Washington, N. H. and held eight meetings. On the Sabbath, made a special effort for the young. Several arose to manifest their desire to start for the kingdom, and we had a free time in praying for them. May they have strength to press on. Sunday spoke with liberty to good congregations in the meeting-house. It awakened so much interest in the minds of the people, that a large room full came out on Tuesday evening to attend a prayer meeting, hoping to hear more. I accordingly spoke to them with much freedom on the condition of an inheritance in the kingdom of God. Wednesday evening had one of the best prayer and conference meetings we have enjoyed for a long time. More of the children arose for prayers. May the good work move on in Washington. We were sorry to find Bro. and Sr. Mead so much afflicted that they could not attend the meeting. Visited them and found them resigned to the will of the Lord, and with peace even in the furnace. I could not banish from my mind the promise of the Lord, as I went from the house, "To the upright there ariseth light in the darkness."
From Washington I went to Newport and held four meetings. Bitter opposition rages against those that keep the Sabbath; but they seemed to stand united and were much cheered to hear the truth again. It was stormy all the time I was there, so that but few came, only those who had deep interest; and they seemed to listen with the greatest eagerness. Found some had come out decided since the last meeting when Bro. and Sr. White were there. Sunday afternoon I returned to Washington in a rain storm. A gale of wind from the mountain broke my umbrella so I had to ride part of the way in the wet, but I had peace within while thinking how much better I fared than the worthies of Heb. xi, who were driven into dens and caves of the earth.
From Dec. 14th, to 17th, listened to an interesting discussion at Manchester, N. H. between Eld. Cornell and Eld. Miles Grant of Boston, on the question, "Resolved that the Sabbath of the fourth commandment still exists and is binding upon the people of this dispensation." After the discussion I tarried and had three meetings. Found several were decided by the discussion and came out and took their stand to keep the Sabbath. Our social meeting on the Sabbath, all testified was the best they had enjoyed since the tent was pitched in Manchester.
From Thursday evening Dec. 24 to Sunday Dec. 27 I spent with Bro. Cornell at Haverhill, Mass. Our meetings were interesting. Several I found had come out in the truth as the result of Bro. Cornell's lectures there which was much encouragement to the few sisters I spoke of in a previous report. Bitter opposition rages against those that have come out from their former brethren, but this only serves to strengthen them.
Tuesday evening Dec. 29th I met with a few at Worcester, Mass. but as they had not received my appointment but few came together. Had a social interview with the brethren. Found them with no meetings. I urged upon them the importance of keeping up their Sabbath meetings, if there were not more than three to meet. They agreed to have a Sabbath prayer meeting.
Wednesday evening Dec. 30th I spoke to a room full of interested hearers at the house of Bro. Priest, and after meeting had a social talk with the brethren and sisters about having prayer meetings on the Sabbath.
They also concluded to have one each Sabbath; and on the second Sabbath in Jan. the Brn., and sisters of both places have a monthly meeting at Worcester. The second Sabbath in Feb., at Clinton, and so on alternately.
Thursday evening met with a few at the house of Bro. Abel Farnsworth in Fitchburgh. Had a pleasant social interview with them and established a Sabbath meeting at the house of Bro. Farnsworth. From here I go on to Ashfield. Bro. Pierce has been sick and cannot meet with me as he writes me, until I get to Kensington. I am encouraged to labor for the prosperity of the cause in the east. Brethren pray for the eastern mission.
J. N. LOUGHBOROUGH.
Fitchburgh, Jan. 1, 1864.
Lovett's Grove, Ohio.
By J. H. Waggoner
THE meetings at Lovett's Grove were very encouraging, the Sabbath evening prayer-meeting especially. The churches in Wood Co. have taken hold of the work in earnest, and have done much to encourage the others to follow their example. On first-day, the 27th, our meeting was at Portage, where six young sisters, from ten to sixteen years of age, were baptized. These were all members of the Lovett's Grove church.
It became necessary to make some arrangements about future meetings with the churches. During the53past season the Committee have together attended a series of meetings with great benefit to the churches and the cause, but with great inconvenience and expense to themselves. Probably few realize the burden they have borne in this matter. Bro. Clarke is engaged in a school, and therefore he cannot leave. Bro. Mears' circumstances also render it impossible for him to do as he has done in the past. The Committee decided (the church unanimously approving), that Bro. Van Gorder continue the meetings with the churches for the present. I trust all the brethren and sisters will exert themselves to attend these meetings, and work to make them interesting, for they have done much for the cause in Ohio, and they should not be suffered to go down or decline in interest. And I request the prayers of all that success may attend our efforts, that the area of such labor may be extended, and that the Lord of the harvest may raise up and send forth laborers. Truly the harvest is plenteous and the laborers are few.
J. H. WAGGONER.
Report from Bro. Cornell.
By M. E. Cornell
BRO. WHITE: Since my last report I gave lectures one week at Manchester. The interest was good. Some new ones became interested, and some of the wavering established. Others wished to hear a discussion of the question before fully deciding.
We then came to Haverhill, Mass., where I have given nineteen lectures, under very unfavorable circumstances, I was called away twice, and our meetings were shifted back and forward from one place to another, besides being interrupted by meetings held by two Advent preachers during the time. As soon as the Sabbath question was introduced an old prejudice was excited and opposition was manifested by some. Notwithstanding all difficulties, some eight or ten have decided to keep the Sabbath.
We had one sweet heavenly meeting with the friends of truth on the Sabbath and it was truly encouraging to hear the testimonies. One brother said he knew the Sabbath was not a yoke of bondage; for he had a wonderful blessing on Friday, in advance, while preparing to keep the Sabbath. But when the Sabbath came he enjoyed as great peace as when he was first converted. Another brother expressed much gratitude for the truth being brought here, and proposed a vote of thanks to those who have sacrificed to send the truth to them. Here they proposed, and heartily passed the following:
"Resolved, That we tender our sincere thanks to the Michigan brethren and others for their interest in sending us the blessed truths of the third angel's message."
For several years there had been seven Sabbath-keepers here, all sisters and five of them widows. They had struggled on in the trials and opposition alone. But now at last their many prayers are answered, their numbers are more than doubled; and there are brethren to go forward and hold up the standard. Some of the youth here are turning to the Lord, proving that the law of the Lord is still perfect converting the soul.
Bro. and sister Loughborough were with us over last Sabbath and first-day, and their help in the meetings was well appreciated. Five subscribed for the Review. They have arranged to hold two meetings each week, and I doubt not they will have good times. Trials will come, and they will have to endure for the truth's sake; but the grace of God is sufficient for every trial and a glorious crown awaits the faithful.
We are now in Peace Dale, R. I., where I can hear from friends for three weeks from this date.
M. E. CORNELL.
Dec. 29th.
Time is Passing.
By M. S. Avery
Another year has passed away with its joys and sorrows, its sunshine and its shade, and oh, what has been the record borne up to the judgment! These are solemn thoughts, and as we have now stepped upon the threshold of a new year, let us review the past, and where we have gone astray with patience and diligence retrace our steps, and unitedly strive to improve the present in making a wise use of our time; and for the future be more watchful to keep our feet in the narrow way.
How swiftly the world is hastening to its doom! How fast the years roll by, and how very soon probation will close forever and our time to work be ended! Yes, we are rapidly nearing our journey's end; and do we look forward, our hearts filled with joy and hope, intently watching the coming morn and to catch the first glimpse of the dawning day? Oh what revelations of untold glory will the children of God behold in that morning! Let us haste to make that preparation that is needful, study the word daily, and search for truth as for "hidden treasures."
We there learn that idle and foolish words, hatred, wrath and strife, are contrary to godliness, and should therefore be put away. Let victories daily be gained over these sins and the way to the kingdom will grow easier and brighter as we travel onward. Too many, I fear, that have the perusal of this sheet, neglect its warnings and heed not its instructions; but the day of reckoning is at hand, and for every abused privilege an account must be given to God.
Oh love not the world too well if with it you would not pass away. Come out and be separate and thereby show that the love of the Father is in your hearts. Come, then, while time is closing and listen to the voice of the prophet Isa. lv, 3: "Incline your ear and come unto me, hear and your soul shall live." The dear Saviour is yet pleading. Slight not probation's last moments. Abuse no longer a Saviour's tender love, and while he waits to receive you, make haste to enter the fold; for the time will soon come when they that are filthy will be filthy still.
M. S. AVERY.
Locke, Mich.
Self Denial.
By D. A. Eddy.
HAD the Saviour of mankind made his advent into this world surrounded by the pomp and the pride of an earthly king; had he promised to his followers unlimited indulgence in the carnal pleasures of this world; had he exacted no self-denial, no cross-bearing, no humility, of his disciples, this would all well have accorded with the inclination of the world, and instead of a few poor fishermen, we should have seen the world immediately gather around his standard.
But no, this was not the Saviour's mission. He came in a meek and lowly guise, and the religion he taught was one of meekness, self-denial, and holiness. His mission was to save the lost; to save us from our sins. He laid down, for a time, the glory he had with the Father, took the form of a servant, became of no reputation, a man of sorrows and acquainted with grief, that we through his poverty might be made rich; and now, having begun the work of redemption, led captivity captive, and ascended to the right hand of the Father, he still calls to us, as his witnesses, by his word, to walk even as he walked, meek and humble.
If then we would be true disciples of him who was meek and lowly, we must deny ourselves. How many there are who practice little or no real self-denial, and yet presume to take upon themselves the sacred name of Christ. What is self-denial? Not that which it is no sacrifice to give up, which gives us no pain to surrender. What saith our Saviour? If thy right hand or eye offend thee, cast them from thee. Not only must all outward sins be renounced, but whatever is in its nature sinful, or can in the least retard our progress in the Christian race, even if it was as dear to us as a right hand or eye, must be dethroned. "He that loveth father or mother more than me, is not worthy of me."
This is the self-denial taught by our Saviour, and practiced by his apostles. Nowhere in the holy Word are we told that time, custom, or circumstances, will render that right which he with whom there is neither variableness nor shadow of turning has pronounced sinful. We may try to excuse ourselves, but God's word remains unchanged. The willing and the obedient shall eat the good of the land. What was the Saviour's reply to the rich young man who came to him, and kneeling at his feet, desired to be instructed in the way of eternal life? "One thing thou lackest." He who seeth not as man seeth, knew that his heart was fixed upon his possessions. Our Lord required of him, as he does of us, that every idol be laid upon the altar.
The young man went away grieved and sad, it is true, but hugging his idol closer to his breast. How many there are who profess to be followers of Christ at this day, who are wrapped up in their robes of self-righteousness, are vainly expecting to merit eternal life by the good things which they do, who, nevertheless, if tried to-day, would sell their birth-right for a mess of pottage. The Christian's whole life is one of self-denial and cross-bearing, and he who expects to reach Heaven by any other path, will find his hopes vain.
D. A. EDDY.
Is Any Sacrifice too Great?
By M. Wilkinson
I BESEECH you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. Rom. xii, 1.
Is there any sacrifice too great for us to make for the sake of Jesus, who has suffered, and died, that we might have eternal life? What a sacrifice did he make for us, when he left the glory of the Father, and came54into this world to be despised and rejected, and at last put to death by those of his own nation! By perusing the history of his life, we see that it was a life of toil, privation and suffering. He was a man of sorrows, and acquainted with grief. What unspeakable love he must have had for poor fallen man! Think of the agony he endured when he sweat great drops of blood; and shall we count any sacrifice too great to make for Christ, or for the advancement of his cause? Shall we not rather deem it a pleasure to give up all for him, who has done so much for us.?
Then again, are not all the sacrifices we are called to make, for our own benefit; especially those relating to our giving up tea, coffee and other things which are injurious to our health, or articles of dress which are worn merely to follow the fashion, for fear of being peculiar! To be sure if we are peculiar we may have to endure scoffs and frowns; for those who care not for religion, will think we are very foolish, to deprive ourselves of things which they enjoy. But what of that? Are not the smiles of our Saviour rather to be preferred than the smiles of this world? But says one, I do not like to give up the society of my friends; and I cannot have their company unless I dress and appear something like them. They will be ashamed of me and avoid me if I am peculiar. Well which shall we try to please, our friends, or our Saviour? Some of the young think it hard to give up their young companions. They have some who are dear to them. But unless they will walk with you in the way of life, you must soon give them up or perish with them. We must give all for Jesus, or we are not worthy of him. And when we have given all that we can give, what is it compared with what he gave for us? Oh let us give all for Jesus and beg of him to accept of us and make use of us for his glory. The Lord has shown us both by his word and the gift of prophecy, what we must give up and how we must live in order to be fitted for his soon coming. May the Lord help us to be ready. M. WILKINSON.
Peterborough, N. H.
Monthly Meeting in N. Y.
By Henry Gardner
Bro. WHITE: The monthly meeting at this place closed yesterday. This meeting commenced on Friday evening, Dec. 31, and continued over Sabbath and first-day. The Spirit of the Lord rested upon us at the commencement of the meeting.
Bro. Andrews was with us, and presented the evidences of the near coming of Christ with much clearness and freedom. He is truly giving the trumpet a certain sound. Let us prepare for the battle.
The prayer and conference meetings were excellent. The testimonies from the brethren and sisters manifested a strong determination to press together. Nearer to thee, my God, seemed to be the language of all who bore testimony, and nearly all spoke.
After the public exercises closed, the ordinances of the Lord's house were attended to. It was a refreshing season. I think all present felt that this was one of the best monthly meetings we have had. Our next monthly meeting is to be at Roosevelt the first Sabbath in February. May we all that can consistently, meet at that time in the name of the Lord; and we have his promise that he will be in our midst.
HENRY GARDNER.
Kirkville, N. Y.
Response from Bro. Aldrich.
By J. M. Aldrich
Since the appearance of the recent "reminder" in the Review, that it was expected of me to review Dr. Aker's chronology of the Sabbath, it seems proper that I should at least respond to the notice, or acknowledge what lawyers would term "service of process."
And now, as the job seems to be allotted to me, and the fact being duly advertised, I will further say that although I do not feel competent to handle the subject as it ought to be handled, I will apply myself to the task as soon as I can glean the necessary time; and in the course of a few weeks will try to find opportunity to introduce the Dr. with his great Sunday-plaster to the readers of the Review.
Meantime allow me to say to Sunday-keepers who are troubled with Bible convictions that "the seventh day is the Sabbath of the Lord," that although the Dr.'s remedy may serve you to some extent as a conscience-soother, it cannot possibly cure your disease.
J. M. ALDRICH.
Hope.
By E. Macomber
THE hope of Heaven is represented by the apostle Paul as the anchor of the soul. We see the propriety of this figure when we consider that the world is like a tempestuous sea—full of dangers, the course of the child of God, the voyage, Heaven the port or harbor, which he expects and desires to gain, with faith the cable rope, sincere prayer, and strict obedience to all the commands of God through Christ our captain.
Sometimes when a ship rides at anchor, dreadful storms arise: the wind blows with fury, the tempest howls, and waves roar, and beat against the vessel. But if the ship be termed seaworthy, that is, firm, strongly put together, if at the same time the cable be strong, and the anchor bites, or strikes its fluke deep into good holding-ground, all will be well. The storm may rage, rocks and quicksands may lie to leeward, threatening destruction; yet will she be secure. Sometimes top-masts and yards are to be housed, and anchor-watch kept, yet will she outride the gale.
By this we may see the proper use of hope to the Christian, which is to keep the soul calm and secure in the day of adversity. Hope does not remove trouble. It sustains the soul in the time of trouble. The anchor does not dispel the storm, it does not quiet the roaring waves, arrest the rolling thunder, nor bid the winds be still; but it enables the vessel to ride out the fury of the gale. It keeps her from being driven on the rocks of death.
The most pious Christian does not find himself exempt from the cares and calamities of this life, or free from the conflicts and difficulties of the Christian life. He often finds himself tossed upon life's raging billows; but under these circumstances, the hope of Heaven as the anchor of the soul keeps him steady; "which hope we have," says the apostle, "as an anchor to the soul, both sure and steadfast." This hope preserves him from being dashed to pieces against the rocks of temptation, destruction, and despair. It at the same time imparts a delightful sense of security in the day of trial, a blessed sense of peace amid a sea of troubles. It inspires fortitude and boldness in the cause of God. "Hope maketh not ashamed, because the love of God is shed abroad in the heart."
How oft the lonely child of God, who has not the glorious privilege of meeting those of like precious faith, feels the need of a well-grounded hope, while looking for that blessed hope and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ. The Lord is mindful of such. The angels of God encamp around about them. They need not fear, only to offend God. There are those who are prompted by evil angels to persecute God's elect. But my dear brother and sister in Christ, although the storms of persecution fall heavy around you, and the tide of temptation may seem to overwhelm you, and all around seems dark and dreary, seize the cable-rope by faithful prayer, think of the anchor, hope, within the veil, boded sure and steadfast where the forerunner hath already entered for us, and from whence he is soon to come to rebuke the angry storms, and to speak as he once spake, Peace, be still.
E. MACOMBER.
New Shoreham, R. I.
Letters.
By Editor
"Then they that feared the Lord, spake often one to another."
This department of the paper is designed for the brethren and sisters to freely and fully communicate with each other respecting their hopes and determinations, conflicts and victories, attainments and desires, in the heavenly journey. Then they, says the prophet, that feared the Lord spake often one to another. We believe emphatically that we are living in that time. Therefore seek first a living experience and then record it, carefully and prayerfully, for the comfort and encouragement of the other members of the household of faith. Let this department be well filled with lively testimonies of the goodness of God, and the value of his truth.
From Bro. Frisbie.
BRO. WHITE : I have been holding meetings ten miles north from Chelsea, where there was much opposition. The Methodists, with their preacher, did what they could to keep the people away from my meetings, yet a goodly number attended when the weather was pleasant. Some few were interested to hear, whom we hope will walk in the light.
In this field of labor there is much prejudice against the Advent faith, on account of the course the nominals have taken in not living out the faith, and their advocating the non-resurrection of the wicked; also the influence of the Messenger party, who were known quite extensively in this part of the country. Yet I have a few places in view where I am in hopes they will receive the truth. I want to make a fair trial. I have found in my experience that we get a good hearing where we are well known, or not known at all; but not where we are only partially known, and that from one-sided rumors. To hear of us is very different from what it is to hear us, and then judge for themselves. As I begin the new year, I desire to renew my diligence in the cause of God.
Yours in hope.
J. B. Frisbie.
Chelsea, Mich.
A Sister’s Testimony of Faith
By Emma C. Downer
From Sister Downer.
Bro. White: For some time past I have had a desire to say to the brethren and sisters through the Review that I too am striving to keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus, in order to be prepared to meet Jesus when he comes to make up his jewels, and have a part in his glorious kingdom. It is more than two years since I began to keep the seventh day as a rest-day, believing it to be the day which God commands to be kept. I first heard the present truth presented by Bro. Steward, and I feel to thank God that my ears have been greeted with the sound of this message. I had a willing heart to receive the precious words of truth, and a desire to keep all of God's commandments. For a short time I was divided between two opinions. Satan presented to my imagination what an appearance I should make to come out from the fashions of the world, &c., yet thank the Lord I was enabled to go trusting in his grace to be sufficient for me, and I have found him a present help in every time of need. I would not exchange the hope I have in Christ for all the world and its momentary pleasures. I want to be one of that happy company whose motto and watchword is, Here are they that keep the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus.
Time is hastening to his close. Prophecy has been fulfilled. Jesus soon is coming with all the holy angels to take his people home; and oh, I want to be ready. It is a great question, Who shall be able to stand? I want the protection of the almighty arm, that I may have a place of refuge when the time of trouble comes upon the world. I hope that it may be my privilege to stand on mount Zion with the 144,000, and sing the song of Moses and the Lamb, and have an inheritance in the earth made new.
Yours striving for life eternal.
EMMA C. DOWNER.
Lemonweir, Wis.
Embracing the Advent Faith
By A. S. Cowdrey
From Sister Cowdrey.
Bro. White: I feel it a duty to say a few words to the brethren and sisters through the Review. It is but a few months since I first heard the doctrine of the S. D. Adventists explained; and I will simply relate the manner in which I was led to embrace the Advent faith. I had never seen a S. D. Adventist, nor knew that there was such a people, until some four or five months since, Bro. Daniels of New Boston, Mass., came into our neighborhood to work; and hearing that he was an earnest advocate of the Advent faith I felt a desire to see and converse with him. I accordingly sent him an invitation to spend an evening with us, which he very willingly complied with. The consequence is, I am to-day trying to serve God by keeping his commandments, and the faith of Jesus.
I had been a member of the M. E. church over twenty years, and once delighted in the society and privileges which the church afforded; but for some years past, I have felt the need of a more holy religion than was generally practiced in our church, although there was always here and there one who like me mourned over the desolations of Zion. But, what to do, or which way to fly, I knew not. But oh when I heard through Bro. Daniels of the faithful few who were traveling to Mt. Zion in that straight and narrow way, and was enabled by grace to see the reasonableness and beauty of the way of holiness, as he exhibited it, by keeping the whole law of God, and planting my feet upon the rock of eternal truth, I must say, I was forced to confess that the call was of God and I rejoice that I heeded it and have dared "to come out from among them," and be separate.
I stand alone; and though scoffed at, and derided, yet I feel confident of this one thing, that he that hath called me will carry me safely through, if I am faithful55to the grace already given. I feel very much the need of social meetings for prayer and praise, but as this cannot be, I turn for comfort to the word of God, and to the Review and Herald, which through the kindness of Bro. Daniels, I have had to read, and I must say it is the best spiritual food outside the Bible that I ever had. Many of the articles and especially the letters, are to me like food for the hungry, or like cold water to a thirsty soul.
Brethren and sisters, my heart is with you, and I hope one day to meet you, where the wicked cease from troubling, and the weary are at rest—pray for me that I may have strength and grace to follow on, in my weakness, and loneliness, until I shall hear the voice of my Master, saying, It is enough; come up higher. Yours in the bonds of Christ in love.
A. S. Cowdrey.
Colebrook River, Ct., Jan. 3, 1864.
Forgiveness.
WHEN on the fragrant sandal tree
The woodman's axe descends,
And she who bloomed so beauteously,
Beneath the keen stroke bends.
E'en on the edge that wrought her death,
Dying she breathes her sweetest breath,
As if to token, in her fall,
Peace to her foes, and love to all.
How hardly man this lesson learns,
To smile and bless the hand that spurns,
To see the blow, to feel the pain,
But render only love again;
This spirit not to earth is given—
One had it, but he came from Heaven.
Reviled, rejected, and betrayed,
No curse he breathed, no plaint he made,
But when in death's deep pang he sighed,
Prayed for his murderers, and died.
Pressing Forward.
EACH believer should be thirsting for God, for the living God, and longing to put his lip to the well-head of eternal life,—to follow the Saviour. Satisfied I am that many a believer lives in the cottage of doubt when he might live in the palace of faith, We are poor starving things when we might be fed; we are weak when we might be mighty, feeble when we might be as the giants before God; and all because we will not hear the Master say, "Rise up, my love, my fair one, and come away." Now, brethren, is the time with you, after your season of trouble, to renew your dedication vow to God. Now, beloved, you shall rise up from worldliness and come away—from sloth, from the love of this world, from unbelief. What enchants you so make you sit still where you are? What delights you to make you as you now are? Come away! There is a higher life; there are better things to live for, and better ways of seeking them. Aspire! Let thy high ambition be unsatisfied with what thou hast already learned and known: not as though thou hast already attained, either wert already perfect; this one thing do thou—press forward to the things that are before.
"I Cling to Thee."
O HOLY Saviour! Friend unseen!
Since on thine arm thou bidst me lean,
Help me throughout life's varying scene;
By faith I cling to thee.
Blest with this fellowship divine,
Take what thou wilt, I'll ne'er repine;
E'en as the branches to the vine,
My soul would cling to thee.
Far from her home, fatigued, oppressed,
Here has she found her place of rest,
An exile still, yet not unblessed,
While she can cling to thee.
What though the world deceitful prove,
And earthly friends and joys remove,—
With patient, uncomplaining love,
Still would I cling to thee.
Though faith and hope may long be tried,
I ask not, need not, aught beside;
How safe, how calm, how satisfied,
The soul that clings to thee.
They fear not Satan nor the grave;
They feel thee near, and strong to save,
Nor dread to cross e'en Jordan's wave,
Because they cling to thee.
Blest is my lot, whate'er befall;
What can disturb me, who appall,
While as my strength, my rock, my all,
Saviour, I cling to thee?
E. A. NUTTING
By E. A. Nutting
From Sister Nutting.
BRO. WHITE : I am still on the Lord's side, trying to keep his commandments. I am willing to have my name cast out as evil. I feel willing to suffer with Christ, if I may but reign with him. When I look back upon the past and realize what great things the Lord has done for me the language of my heart is, Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me bless his holy name. I want to be a living Christian, growing in grace and in the knowledge of the truth. I want to be like Jesus. I want to reflect his lovely image. I realize that it is necessary that I pray more in secret, that I may be prepared for the trying scenes which are just before us. What a blessed privilege we have of going to our heavenly Father in every trial and he will not turn a deaf ear to our supplications. If our prayers are not answered immediately, we should not be discouraged. Our heavenly Father knows what is best for us. I love to read and think of the good hymn which says,
"Prayer is appointed to convey,
The blessings God designs to give;
Long as they live should Christians pray,
They learn to pray when first they live."
In hope of eternal life.
E. A. NUTTING
Clermont, Iowa.
Obituary Notices.
DIED in Irasburgh, Vt., Dec. 18, 1863, my mother-in-law Lydia Barrows, wife of Jesse Barrows, in the 55th year of her age. For years our dear mother had suffered much from ill health. But in answer to the prayer of faith, she had repeatedly been greatly blessed and raised up, when it seemed she was near the grave.
Five weeks previous to her death, she was attacked with typhoid fever from which she suffered much for three weeks; when the lung fever set in causing her much more suffering, till the powers of nature gave way to the dreadful disease, and brought her to her journey's end. Peaceful, happy end. Without a groan or struggle she fell asleep in Jesus.
"One only thought our tears could stay,
We sorrowed not bereft of hope."
When father told her we thought she was dying, and asked her if she was willing, with sweet resignation she answered, "Oh yes."
On the 21st inst. Bro. A. Stone preached an appropriate discourse from 1 Cor. xv, 26, after which we laid her lifeless remains away by the side of two dear daughters, to rest till the resurrection morning, when Jesus will unlock the prison-house of death and the grave and bring them forth as trophies of his everlasting power to save from him that hath the power of death.
With the rest of the family, mother embraced the Sabbath under the labors of Bro. Joseph Bates fourteen years since. Her fervent love for the blessed Saviour, for his cause and his people, and her undeviating affection as a companion and mother, were most appreciated by those who knew her best. Such too can realize best the painful absence, the mournful vacancy there is to-day, in our lonely dwelling. But we would now in meek submission to our sore bereavement, knowing that he who hath afflicted us "doeth all things well."
A. S. HUTCHINS.
DIED, of diphtheria, in Eddington, Me., Nov. 29th, 1863, Lizzie, daughter of Bro. C. Field, aged 8 years and 10 months, after an illness of ten days.
ABRAM BARNES.
DIED, in St. Charles, Saginaw Co. Mich., of consumption, Nov., 8th, 1863, Amy F., wife of John Holiday, aged 37 years 9 months and 14 days. She embraced the third angel's message under Bro. Cornell's lectures at St. Charles, Feb. 1861. She leaves a husband and two children to mourn her loss. She gave her family up into the hands of the Lord, trusting that he would do all things well. She died in full belief of the soon coming of our Lord and Saviour. There being no messenger present, Bro. Joseph Dudley, addressed the congregation with appropriate and feeling remarks.
JOHN HOLIDAY.
E. CARMICHAEL
By E. Carmichael
From Bro. Carmichael.
BRO. WHITE: It is now almost four years since I first heard and embraced the third angel’s message; and although I am one of the number that has been chosen through the furnace of affliction, I can say today that I regret not that I hasted and delayed not to keep the commandments of my God. Oh how good it is to bow in sweet submission to the will of our heavenly Father, and trust the event with him, and cast all our care upon him, knowing that he careth for us. Oh how precious his promises are to the discouraged and desponding ones! How oft have I been made to cry out, Why art thou cast down, O my soul; and why art thou disquieted within me? Hope thou in God; for I shall yet praise him who is the health of my countenance and my God.
I still feel a great desire to be among that number that shall be purified and made white and tried, Dan. xii, 10, and be fitted to stand on Mt Zion. When we contemplate the glories that await those that are to be heirs of God and joint-heirs with Jesus Christ, we can but long to be there to behold his glory.
This is the hope which is as an anchor to the soul. It is that hope that strengthens and encourages the lonely and tried ones to press, pray, and strive on. It is that hope that buoys up the troubled soul when almost sinking in despair and discouragements from troubles by the way. Oh how oft have we been made to joy and rejoice in God our Saviour, for this blessed hope!
I still have the privilege of reading the Review which is no small favor. I take much delight in perusing its pages, and the great truths which it contains with the cheering letters from the lovers of this cause. It would be the greatest favor that I could ask to have the privilege of meeting with the lovers of truth from week to week to worship the Lord; but I desire to have my will subdued unto the will of our heavenly Father. I pray to be directed and guided in all my ways and that the path of duty be made plain before me. I do not desire to take one step in my life, that would be a dishonor to God or his cause; but it is my desire to know my duty, and do it. In hope of eternal life.
E. CARMICHAEL
Springville, Iowa.
Extracts from Letters.
Bro. M. Curry writes from Felts, Ing. Co. Mich. : I am in harmony with the doctrines taught in your paper, as the result of prayerful investigation of the word of God. Though such doctrines and facts endorsed and practiced by any person, subjects them to the scoffs of this wicked age, as Noah’s like message did him to his age. Nevertheless we are tied up to such conclusions as the result of honest enquiry after truth. But with us as with the apostles, after the manner called heresy by popular professors, so worship we the God of our fathers.
Bro. T. Hulet writes from Norville, Mich. : I and my companion are trying to live out the truth of the third angel’s message in keeping the commandments of God and the faith of Jesus. We ask the prayers of all the saints that we may continue steadfast in the strait and narrow path that leads to life, and have a right to the tree of life through Jesus Christ our Lord, who has died for us. Let us who have come out from the world continue steadfast in the truth, looking to Jesus the author and finisher of our faith. Dear brethren, the prize that Jesus holds up before us, and the offer that he has given us even eternal life in glory, is enough. On the other hand all that is offered is the pleasures of this life, and then the reward is death. Let the wicked scoff, and turn us from their society; but let it be for Jesus’ sake; and he says, Blessed are ye when men shall revile you and hate you and say all manner of evil against you falsely for my sake. If we feel cast down, we can go to Jesus and he will give strength to overcome the fiery darts of the enemy. I am determined to press on until I gain the prize.
Bro. Wm. Bates writes from Abington, Ct.: I rejoice as I read the cheering news in the Review, with regard to present truth. I rejoice to hear the cause is prospering and that the people of God are coming up on higher ground ; that the gifts are being prized, and hold their proper place in the church. I long to see the time when all will be one ; when our dear Saviour’s own prayer will be answered, and his people will be one even as he and his Father are one. We are living in solemn times. It is time that we put away every thing that is not Christ-like. Oh that we could fully realize our position, and prepare for events upon which we are just entering. We have all an individual work to do, and should take heed to the warning of the apostle Peter, “Seeing ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him without spot and blameless.” Let us all be faithful. We need faithful laborers here. It seems that if we could have a course of lectures, it would bring many into the truth. The Brn. and sisters are strong. We have never been organized but are looking for some evangelist to come this way. We are glad that some are looking to the East. Oh may the loud cry call more out to stand with the remnant.