THE subject of the second lesson in this series, the one for Sabbath, April 12, is “The Question of Supremacy.”
The interest of the universe centers upon the great controversy between Christ and Satan. This little world of ours, so small when compared with other worlds, is the battle field upon which is being carried forward the contest for the supremacy throughout the whole of God’s dominion. This is not a mere theory, a subject to be studied as a sort of intellectual gymnastics. It is the supreme question of the hour, and has a most practical bearing upon the present experience and future destiny of each one of us.
Because the leaders in this controversy are themselves invisible for the present, revealing themselves through the human instrumentalities through which they work, therefore some are disposed to ignore altogether their existence and working, and to regard the march of events through the centuries as simply the result of mere human plan and effort. It is only in the light of the Scripture that we can see the foolishness of this interpretation of human experience, tear away the mask behind which Satan conducts his campaign, and understand the true meaning of the present situation in the world. He who casts away the word of God rejects the one divinely appointed means for exposing the deceptive working of Satan, and is left to be made the captive of Satan at his will.
The twelfth, thirteenth, and fourteenth chapters of the book of Revelation present in symbolic teaching the final effort of Satan to take possession of this world-kingdom, and thus to prevent the establishment of the kingdom of God upon the earth. In this symbolic outline of his closing attempt to become the great world-ruler, “the great dragon . . . that old serpent, called the Devil, and Satan” first appears in his true character as the enemy of the “man child, who was to rule all nations with a rod of iron,” and whom Satan is represented as being ready to devour as soon as he was born. This warfare is carried forward through the world-power symbolized by the “great red dragon.” The next development of the controversy shows that the dragon has given “his power, and his seat [throne], and great authority” to another world-power symbolized by the beast from the sea. When these two symbols are compared with each other, it will be seen that the second is but a variation of the first. The same seven heads and ten horns appear on both, the difference being that in the latter symbol the crowns have been transferred from the heads to the horns. It is evident that while the dragon, or Satan, did not hide his purpose to make war directly upon Christ and His work during the time of the first world-power mentioned in this prophecy, he does attempt to hide his purpose and work during the time of the second world-power, although the power and the throne and the authority of this world-power are really his. So close is the union between the two that when “they worshiped the beast,” “they worshiped the dragon which gave power unto the beast.” Here the deceptive working of Satan is revealed. The beast from the sea is simply a variation of the “great red dragon,” and is just as really the tool of Satan in the controversy between himself and Christ for the supremacy.
We next have the beast with two horns as the symbol of a world-power which occupies the third place in this series of world-powers through which “the great dragon . . . called the Devil and Satan,” is seeking to gain control of the world-kingdom, seeking to gain the supremacy over Christ, the rightful Prince. That this third world-power finally becomes simply a mask for “the great dragon” is shown by the fact that although it had some lamb-like features, yet “he spake as a dragon,” and becomes so closely identified with the beast from the sea, to whom the dragon gave “his power, and his seat, and great authority,” that “he exerciseth all the power of the first beast before [in the presence of] him.” This beast from the earth also “causeth the earth and them which dwell therein to worship the first beast [the beast from the sea].” But the worship of the first beast is simply the worship of the dragon, or Satan. Thus it is plain that it is the studied purpose of Satan, working through these world-powers, to seek the place of supremacy which belongs to God in Christ, and to direct toward himself the worship which belongs to “Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.”
At the very time when this crowning effort on the part of Satan is meeting with apparent success, there is to go forth to the world a message which will unmask Satan’s deceptive working, and show that the worship of “the beast [from the sea] and his image” is nothing else than devil-worship. The loud cry of this message will resound throughout the whole world, saying, “Behold your God,” behold your God manifested in the flesh in the person of His Son Jesus Christ, “that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh;” “Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world;” “Behold, He cometh with clouds;” “Behold, thy King cometh unto thee;” “Worship Him that made heaven, and earth, and the sea, and the fountains of waters.”
This is the gospel of the kingdom which is to be preached in all the world for a witness, and the preaching of which will constitute the sign of the coming of the Lord and the end of the world. It teaches the supremacy of God as the true King, the Creator, as the One to be worshiped and served, in direct opposition to Satan’s demand for worship and service, and the gift of the Son of God in the flesh, that man might be restored to the high position of likeness to God and to the privilege of being servant to the King of the universe. O that our eyes may be opened to understand the true situation at the present time, and that our hearts may be filled with a holy zeal to sound forth this last message of warning and saving mercy, that the souls which are in darkness and bondage may be brought out into the marvelous light and liberty of the sons of God! Who is king in your heart? How are you settling this question of supremacy? Let the life of service for the Master testify that “the Lord reigneth.”
W. W. P.
Unemployment in Berlin
WHILE there is unusual prosperity in the United States, there is an unusual business depression in Germany, in consequence of which the number of unemployed persons is very large. In Berlin, twelve thousand workmen who engaged in a house-to-house canvass, found that 76,029 persons are out of employment in that city, and that 52,501 others are only partially employed. This makes no account of a very large number of men who work by the job, and whose earnings have been greatly reduced by the hard times.
The Power to Love
By Mary Putnam Gilmore
The power to love,— God’s greatest gift,—
Forget it not, dear heart. ’Twill lift
The weight of burdens heaviest,
When thou rememb’rest that the best
He gives is thine,— thou still canst love!
—Mary Putnam Gilmore.
A Profitable Conference
By Arthur G. Daniells
THE first session of the Pacific Union Conference was held in Portland, Ore., Feb. 28 to March 9, 1902. This conference has a large territorial area. It stretches from Alaska in the north to Arizona in the south, and from Montana and Utah in the east to the Hawaiian Islands in the Pacific Ocean. Its organized Conferences are California, North Pacific, Upper Columbia, Montana, and Southern California. Its mission fields are Arizona, Utah, British Columbia, Alaska, and Hawaii. The membership of the Conference is about ten thousand.
Every Conference and mission field in the union, except Hawaii, was represented by delegates at the Portland Conference. But the distances of some parts of the field were so great that what might be called a large or full delegation could not be expected. There was, however, a good representation from all parts of the Conference, and of all the leading phases of the work.
In some respects, this was one of the truest and most pleasing and ideal conferences I ever attended. The delegation was made up principally of presidents of Conferences, superintendents of mission fields, principals of colleges, physicians in charge of sanitariums, the managers and directors of the publishing house, State canvassing agents, managers of health-food factories, stores, and restaurants. All these delegates came together as special representatives of these lines of work, and conferred and worked together for the promotion of each line just as though there was but one question before them. And indeed there was but one primary question, and that was the proclamation of the whole gospel to men. Preaching, healing, feeding, teaching, printing, canvassing, are all important though different ways of imparting the gospel of life and salvation to the lost.
It was a beautiful sight to see a company of men possessing strength of mind and character sufficient to make them leaders in the different departments of the work they represent, working together day after day in the fullest sympathy and harmony. All seemed to be filled with a broad, sweet spirit. Each manifested an interest in the whole work. Each exercised Christian courtesy to all others. Each endeavored to give every line of work its due share of attention.
This was a conference in a large, true sense. When perplexing questions arose, we prayed and studied and conferred together until light came and made the way clear. As soon as the right way was made plain, all took a harmonious, resolute stand to walk in that way, regardless of previous views and the apparent sacrifice. Indeed, one of the leading features of the conference was the boldness of the delegates to undertake great things for God. This boldness did not in any sense approach rashness. It seemed near of kin to that manifested by Caleb and Joshua when the ten spies filled the people with fear of the giants and the walled cities of Palestine. The boldness of the Portland Conference was that which reckons on the results, not according to the greatness of the task nor the weakness of the workers, but according to the power of God, who directs the way.
As I am not in possession of the written proceedings of the conference, I cannot attempt an outline of the work done. Some decided steps were taken for unifying and developing the work in different parts of the Conference. It was unanimously voted to form a Pacific Union Medical Missionary and Benevolent Association. The chief object of such an association is to unify and promote all medical and health interests of the Pacific Coast. Recommendations were passed advising that the mission fields of Utah, Arizona, and British Columbia be organized into Conferences as soon as the officers of the Union Conference can visit these fields.
The Conference placed itself on record regarding the plan for selling “Christ’s Object Lessons” as a means for paying off the indebtedness of its colleges. Besides receiving attention several times in the conference, an entire evening was devoted to the consideration of this plan, at the close of which the following recommendations were adopted:—
We recommend that a vigorous campaign for the sale of “Christ’s Object Lessons” be started immediately throughout the Pacific Union Conference, for the liquidation of the school debts in this Conference, and that it be carried out according to the following general plan:—
That the members in the territory belonging to Healdsburg College be assigned at the rate of six books a member.
That the members in the territory belonging to Walla Walla College be assigned at the rate of six books a member.
That each Conference and mission field be asked definitely to assume the responsibility of selling its quota of books.
That the Executive Boards of the Conferences and mission fields be advised to place the chief responsibility of the sale of the book upon the ministers, other conference laborers, and church officers.
That, for the rapid and successful execution of this undertaking, the territory be carefully districted, and be assigned to the ministers and conference laborers.
That the entire membership of each field be requested to devote the opening week of the campaign to the sale of “Christ’s Object Lessons,” and—
That arrangements be made in each case at the beginning of the campaign for ministers and conference workers to remain in their respective districts to push forward this special work until the entire quota of books is sold.
These recommendations were passed by a rising vote of the entire congregation. The presidents of Conferences and the superintendents of mission fields all personally expressed their hearty approval of this work, and promised their faithful services in making the effort successful. Since the Portland Conference the brethren in both Montana and Utah have approved of the action of the Union Conference, and have ordered their entire quota of books. The Upper Columbia and North Pacific Conferences are organizing their forces for thorough, successful work; and California is moving with the rest. May God’s prospering hand be with these dear brethren in their earnest efforts to do His will.
The proceedings of the Conference will no doubt appear in due time. This meeting will mark an epoch in the Pacific Union Conference. It revealed the magnitude of the work, and the power by which it is to be accomplished. It revealed the existence of unity and brotherly love, without which no great movement of this kind can succeed. It aroused all present to greater activity and boldness for the accomplishment of great things for God.
A. G. DANIELLS.
G. W. CAVINESS
By G. W. Caviness
Mexico
ACCORDING to the report of the American consul, the foreign population of the City of Mexico is as follows: Spanish, 10,000; American, 4,000; French, 3,000; English, 1,500; German, 1,000; Italian, 400. The entire number of Americans in the whole country is estimated at 10,000, so it appears that nearly one half of all the Americans in the republic are in the capital. The ratio would probably be the same for other nationalities. Also in commercial importance the City of Mexico will about equal all the rest of the country.
The English language is spoken on trains, in hotels, and in most large commercial houses by some of the employers or head clerks; but to do business which would bring one in contact with the natives requires a knowledge of the Castilian language. One can learn enough Spanish in a few months to do ordinary business; but to become really proficient requires years of study and practice.
For an ordinary day-laborer, or even for one working at more common trades, Mexico does not offer much inducement. A common laborer receives from fifty cents to one dollar, and a mason or carpenter from one dollar to one dollar and a half a day, Mexican money, which is worth a little less than half as much as United States currency. The Mexican laborer of whatever class is shiftless and unreliable, and never has anything ahead. Carpenters201painters, or masons will come to work for you in the morning, and at ten or eleven o'clock you will have to give them from twelve to twenty-five cents to get their food for the day. This you have to do every day. When you pay them off at the end of the week, there is no assurance that they will return at the beginning of the next week.
On account of this condition of affairs, a foreman, or overseer, who can be depended on is a necessity, and commands good wages. In the running of machinery, skilled workmen are in demand. On railroads, in factories, and mills, foreigners and not Mexicans will be found in charge. As to wages in such positions, it is impossible to give anything definite. Employers pay what they have to; and employees get what they can; but in general, such positions command good salaries.
Such situations cannot often be secured by Sabbath-keepers, although not much attention is paid to Sunday. One can usually get all the help he wants who will work Sunday and rest on Saturday. The best openings are for one who has a small capital, and can establish a business under his own management. He can employ native labor cheap, and with kindness and much patience he can do well both for himself and for his help.
Most of the valuable lands are passing into the hands of a few men. The State of Guerrero is said to belong to twenty-eight men. Haciendas, or ranches, are usually measured by the square league. There are, however, some smaller holdings that a few families with small means might secure; but in my opinion, Mexico is not the place for one who has difficulty to make a living in the United States, and wishes to better his condition by coming here. This will be shown more fully as we consider other particulars of the existing conditions. The need of the people, the good one can do, and the advancement of the message are the things that should attract workers to this most neglected field. In our next article we will note something of the cost of living, and then speak of some of the special lines that seem to present opportunities for doing good.
G. W. CAVINESS
Great Sinners Have Stronger Grounds for Pardon
SOME who earnestly desire to receive a full salvation hesitate to come to the Lord for pardon and cleansing, because of a sense of the greatness of their sins. How frequently do we hear the objection made, “But I am such a great sinner!” Those who either honestly or dishonestly make this excuse ought to be reminded that they are giving the very best ground for seeking forgiveness. Listen to sound reasoning: “For thy name’s sake, O Lord, pardon mine iniquity; for it is great.” The greater the sin, the stronger reason there is for applying for pardon. “Though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” “He will abundantly pardon.” And the basis upon which forgiveness may be expected is not found in what we are, but in what He is. “I, even I, am He that blotteth out thy transgressions for mine own sake.” It is the Lord’s character which is at stake in this matter of forgiveness of sin. If He should refuse to pardon one person who sincerely sought forgiveness, His throne would totter and fall. “Justice and judgment are the habitation [basis, or foundation] of thy throne.” To refuse forgiveness would be to deny His own name, His own existence. “And the Lord descended . . . and proclaimed the name of the Lord, . . . The Lord, . . . merciful and gracious, . . . forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin.” “He cannot deny himself.” What an assurance of forgiveness! “As the Lord liveth,” so sure may we be that “if we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” “His mercy endureth forever.” “Let Israel hope in the Lord: for with the Lord there is mercy, and with Him is plenteous redemption.” “Thou, Lord, art good, and ready to forgive; and plenteous in mercy unto all them that call upon thee.” Let every trembling, hesitating soul take courage.
Australia
By W. Woodford
SINGLETON, N. S. W.—It is now about nine months since we left our field of labor in Alabama. Surely the Lord has been good to care for and bless us.
The New South Wales camp-meeting was held at this place last October, and we remained to follow up the interest. Ten persons have given themselves to the Lord. We have purchased a lot on which to build a church, which we hope soon to have completed. Laborers are few, and money is hard to get, yet we have a firm trust in our Heavenly Father, who owns the silver and the gold. Dear brethren, remember this field with your means and with your prayers. Each year the work grows harder. Satan is working with great power, knowing that his time is short. Let us not delay to do our part faithfully. W. WOODFORD.
Fiji
By J. E. Fulton
SUVA.— Brother Pauliasi Bunoa, our native brother, has just gone on a trip to the eastern group. He has taken a good supply of books, tracts, and papers. He will canvass for the books, take orders for the Rarama, and distribute tracts and papers. He will hold meetings, as the opportunity presents itself. I trust he may do good. He was there a year ago, and considerable interest was awakened by his visit. I have been thinking strongly of having him remain in that district, and thus set a shining light in another part of the group.
A young man who accepted the truth a few months ago gives promise of making a good worker. He is well educated, and was already appointed to a position as a preacher when he accepted this truth. He is just beginning to canvass. I hope he will do well. J. E. FULTON.
ARTHUR FULTON
By Arthur Fulton
Argentina
DIAMANTE.—The burden of the work in this great, neglected field is resting upon our native brethren, and we are glad to see the effort they are making. Our school has been in operation only a short time, yet we see much fruit from this work.
Our brethren in the States cannot realize the disadvantages under which we labor; for example, we have a few rude benches; during the day these must travel from the dining room to the schoolroom, and then back again, thus doing double service. We have no beds, the students being compelled to bring their own cots. We have not enough tools to let all work at the same time.
Our native brethren have built the school with their own means, but they are not able to furnish it. The crops are a failure this year. If we had a few dollars with which to furnish the rooms, it would be a great saving of time, and we should be able to do better work. Since this is the only school where Spanish workers are being educated, we are anxious that the work should be as representative as possible.
ARTHUR FULTON
New York
By G. B. Thompson
THE work in this Conference is moving on encouragingly. We are now in the midst of the campaign to dispose of our quota of “Christ’s Object Lessons.” We are making every effort possible to cause all to sense their individual responsibility in this matter. When all do this, the work will be done suddenly, and the “blessed result” promised will be experienced by those who have done their part. The conference laborers have all taken hold freely and willingly, and are themselves not only engaged in canvassing, but are helping others to get started. Many speak of the blessing received. One of our Bible workers has sold nearly one hundred copies while engaged in her regular work. The Lord has said that this is the thing to do now, and we intend to do it, even if it takes all summer. The elders and other church officers are co-operating, and the work is well started. It is no time now to say, “We can’t.” This is the language of the ten spies. Caleb and Joshua said, “We are able,” and as a result they entered the promised land. The battle is on, and it is no time to falter, to begin and then return home. “The children of Ephraim, being armed, and carrying bows, turned back in the day of battle.” Ps. 78:9. Because this spirit was cherished, the Lord finally said, “Ephraim is joined to idols: let him alone.” We will do well to remember Ephraim.
In the matter of selling “Christ’s Object Lessons” we are told that the Lord is “testing” His people. A test may come to us in a way that we are not expecting. Gideon’s army was tested at the water, and the manner in which each took a drink determined whether he could be used in gaining the victory. Judges 7:4-7. In this matter we are being tested individually. Some, I fear, are not standing the test, and will lose the blessing. Admiral Nelson, at the battle of Trafalgar, signaled, “England expects every man to do his duty.” In this conflict the Lord expects every one of us to do his duty. If we do, our schools will be emancipated, and will be better able to carry on the work for which they were established.
We have also arranged for a canvassers’ school to be held in Syracuse during April. We hope that the attendance will be good, and that this school will result in a general revival of the canvassing work in the State. We expect that some of our old and tried canvassers, as well as others, will attend this institute. The old-time spirit of selling books has been rekindled in many hearts by taking hold of the work of selling “Christ’s Object Lessons,” and we are praying that many will again enlist in the work. We have also planned some general meetings for the spring and summer, in which this work, the health work, and other leading features of the message will receive special consideration. Our courage is good. Pray for us. G. B. THOMPSON.
Friedensau Industrial School
By W. C. Sisley
FRIEDENSAU was the name chosen by the brethren and indorsed by the German government for the farm on which the school is located. The name in English means “peaceful meadow,” and is very appropriate, as the place, though not far from the din and bustle of large cities, is as quiet and retired as one could wish. The farm “Friedensau” is located sixteen miles from Magdeburg and eight miles from Burg. It contains ninety acres in two pieces. The fifty acres upon which the buildings are, is pleasantly located, being surrounded with woods. A brook winds its course through the fields, and supplies power to run a small flour mill, food factory, and pumping apparatus.
FARM BUILDINGS AND FOOD FACTORY AT FRIEDENSAU
When the farm was purchased about four years ago, the buildings on it consisted of a comfortable dwelling, all the necessary barns and outbuildings, besides a small gristmill.
The purchase of “Friedensau,” and the starting of a missionary training school, was no small undertaking for the German Conference, since enlarged into the German Union Conference. The demand was so imperative for a suitable place where young people could be trained as missionaries for their vast mission fields, that the Conference felt impelled to make a beginning. The funds of the Conference were so small that it was impossible to erect suitable school buildings. So in order that the work should not be delayed, temporary buildings were improvised, and the school work begun. God’s blessing has attended this work of faith and devotion from the start, and good results have followed. Already about twenty-five workers have entered the field from this school.
During the last two years a good sanitarium and food factory have been built, equipped, and manned with a good corps of efficient workers. They have now nearly completed a much-needed building containing tenements for the physician of the sanitarium, principal of the school, manager, and others. The farm has been greatly improved by the planting of orchards, and small fruits, and in other ways.
We are glad to note that outside of a part of the purchase price, and some money borrowed for the erection and equipment of the buildings, no debt has been incurred. An examination of the accounts shows that the enterprise has been carefully managed from the beginning. The business has been conducted on the cash basis, paying for everything as they go. With the exception of a little help rendered by the Conference in the way of paying the salary of some of the workers, the enterprise has been self-supporting from the first. This result could not have been attained without the special blessing of God and the hearty co-operation of both the management and workers. I am sure you would all enjoy a visit to the school, and would be pleased with the spirit of earnestness and devotion manifested by all connected with it.
Friedensau Industrial School is indeed a genuine training school for missionaries. There are at present forty-four students in attendance,—twenty-nine Germans, seven Russians, three Hollanders, one Dane, one Macedonian, one Rumanian, and two Hungarians. All are preparing to engage in missionary work. They are a fine, earnest company of young people. All seem anxious to begin work as soon as they can get the proper training.
Notwithstanding the fact that these students have poor accommodations, they seem to be cheerful and contented. They are willing to put up with almost any inconvenience for the sake of securing a training for the Master’s service.
Those in charge of the work feel that the time has come when something must be done to provide more room and better accommodations for this growing school. Plans are being laid for the establishment of a small printing office in connection with the school, where some of our literature can be printed in different languages. The temporary building now used for class rooms will answer very well for this purpose, and the present dormitories will make the much-needed workshops. Drawings have been prepared and estimates submitted for a building large enough to board and lodge about fifty students. For the present, part of the building can be used for recitation rooms.
STUDENTS AND SCHOOL BUILDING AT FRIEDENSAU
The plans are so drawn as to permit of enlarging the building at any future time. This building should be completed in time for next year’s school. The estimated cost is about ten thousand dollars. Now the question is, How can this money be secured without crippling some other branch of the work? We answer, Through the sale of the German edition of “Christ’s Object Lessons.” We are sure that our brethren in America are so deeply interested in Friedensau Industrial School that they will take hold earnestly and sell at least ten thousand books, and turn the money over to pay for this building. In the meantime, our German Union Conference will undertake to sell ten thousand more in Europe, the proceeds of which will also be used for school purposes. If all interested ones will in faith enter earnestly upon the work of selling these books, I see no reason why money cannot be brought in fast enough to have the building completed this summer. Who dares to say that it cannot be done? I trust that hundreds, yea, thousands, will say, By the help of the Lord it can and must be done; and then go to work with all their might to do it.
W. C. SISLEY.
General Notes
Two additions have been made recently to the company of Sabbath-keepers at Austin, Minn., and several others at that place are awaiting baptism.
RECENTLY work was begun in the town of Monmouth, Ill., by canvassing for “Christ’s Object Lessons.” Through the interest thus awakened, which was followed up with Bible readings, eleven persons have been led to the keeping of the Sabbath, and a great opportunity is opened for further work.
As a result of work begun some time ago at Grafton, W. Va., by two isolated Sabbath-keepers there, ten residents of that place are now keeping the Sabbath, and meetings, which are being conducted in a private house, are well attended. The two who first sowed the seeds of truth in Grafton moved to another place without having seen any visible results of their labors; but other laborers are now reaping the harvest.
BROTHER MORRIS LUKENS reports favorably concerning the work in Erie, Pa. Among other interesting items, he mentions the following: “A gentleman of some means, who has never made any profession of religion, raised his hand for prayer on a recent Sunday night. A few days later his young son was taken very sick, and the man and his wife spent the night in seeking the Lord for the restoration of their boy. God heard and answered their prayers. This made such an impression on the man that the next day he sought the Lord for the forgiveness of sin, and, like Jacob, would not cease pleading until he received the blessing. He has sold out his business, and has since refused a position at twenty-five dollars a week, because he could not keep the Sabbath and hold it. He is now awaiting baptism.”
Porto Rico
By A. J. Haysmer
MAYAGUEZ.— February 20 I arrived in St. Thomas, having been absent for over seven weeks, visiting different islands. I remained at home about five days, attending to my mail, and giving Mrs. Haysmer a little rest from the services. I then went to the island of St. Kitts, to look after some matters pertaining to the work, and to assist Brother S. A. Wellman in a series of meetings which he had begun some time before, at Sandy Point. When we had the work well begun, I received a cablegram from Porto Rico, stating that Brother Fischer was very low, and desired me to come to him if possible. The royal mail steamer was due the next day for St. Thomas, where I arrived Thursday, at 4 P. M. I supposed that the French steamer for Porto Rico had gone, as she was booked to leave two days before, but on entering the harbor I saw that she was still there. Mrs. Haysmer met me, and told me that the French steamer had been delayed, but would leave at six o'clock. As she had secured the passport and ticket, I went for a few minutes, and looked after some work that needed immediate attention. I arrived at Porto Rico, Friday afternoon. I was not detained long at the customs, and was soon at the home of Brother and Sister Fischer. I found the house under strict quarantine, the yellow flag floating to the breeze in front of the house, and a policeman guarding the door. I had no trouble to get in, but have now been here ten days, and have not been out. I found Brother Fischer very low with typhoid fever. The doctor whom they had called gave me no hope of his recovery. But we determined to do all in our power, and leave his case in the hands of the Great Physician. The hemorrhages were soon checked, and the pulse and temperature became more normal, and the doctor was surprised day by day as he made his calls. Brother Fischer is still improving slowly, and although very low, we hope that he will soon be out of danger. On my arrival I learned that Sister Fischer had been alone with him for days. She had not had time to prepare herself food nor to obtain sufficient rest, and was about tired out. She has not been well for some time, and needed rest and treatment herself. The Lord surely has sustained and strengthened her for this great strain.
I am glad to be here to assist what I can. I thank the Lord for the experience I obtained during the years I spent at the Sanitarium. All our workers, especially those who go to foreign countries, should learn how to care for the sick. Some of the missionaries, the associate judge, the British vice consul, and some of the neighbors have been very kind, but as Brother and Sister Fischer were under quarantine, very little could be done. The British vice consul took their little Ina to care for. This has been a great help. Although the people here have not had the light that many have enjoyed, and have been held down by Romanism, yet they have some noble traits of character, and above all, they are the purchase of the blood of Christ. Brother and Sister Fischer have worked hard under adverse circumstances. While acquiring knowledge of the language, they have been learning how to help the people. They need a club of our Spanish paper, and also a club of the health journal to use in their work. If they had five dollars' worth of each to distribute, many souls might be saved eternally as the result. Would not some of our people in the States like to invest that much in this people? If so, they may send the money to Elder W. A. Spicer, Battle Creek, Mich., stating what it is for, and he will order the papers sent. A. J. HAYSMER.
