White, J. S.
Oakland, California
March 31, 1876
Portions of this letter are published in 3Bio 23-24; 8MR 29-30.
Dear Husband:
Last night I visited Edson. Went to his house at seven and remained until half past nine o'clock. I talked with him plainly but kindly, but his feelings were very strong that he had been misused, [that] no mercy had been shown him when he left the office, although he had acknowledged his wrong. I saw that he was making no headway and we bowed in prayer. 3LtMs, Lt 1, 1876, par. 1
I felt from the first fastened with entreaty and earnest pleading upon God. Still no break. I prayed over Edson, but his heart seemed unbroken. I then decided to spend the night in prayer, for our help could come from God alone. I had prayed five times and Edson four, he coming a little near the point every time. The last time he broke all to pieces. He made an entire surrender to God and such earnest pleadings and entreaties I have seldom heard. He then prayed again and again, and seemed to be in agony of spirit, confessing his wrongs, broken in spirit, his tears freely mingled with his prayers. 3LtMs, Lt 1, 1876, par. 2
The room seemed to be lighted up with the presence of God. Edson then prayed for Emma. He got his arm around her and made his prayer to God with his resolves that they would seek God daily and earnestly watch against the temptations of Satan. He put his arms around me and talked and prayed and wept. Salvation indeed had come to that house. He then accompanied [me] home. I did not sleep much last night and feel worn this morning, but very thankful that we broke through the cloud of darkness last night and obtained the victory. I was determined not to give over the struggle till victory came. I never saw Edson so deeply exercised before and so sensible of his danger and weakness. But it did seem that I must succumb to the powers of darkness. I had spent many hours in prayer to God for Edson before I visited him. 3LtMs, Lt 1, 1876, par. 3
Edson will probably write to you. I hope you will show a readiness to help him and encourage him, for he has had a sore, hard, trying time but tried to brave it through. The Spirit of God filled the room where we were. It was indeed a light place. 3LtMs, Lt 1, 1876, par. 4
We had a card from you yesterday that was all, stating that you would reach Cheyenne at midnight. We hope to hear more today. Willie is now writing you. 3LtMs, Lt 1, 1876, par. 5
I enjoy the presence of God and yet my soul is continually drawn out for more of His salvation. I am writing and having freedom in my writing. Precious subjects I am handling. The last I completed, or about completed, yesterday—Jesus healing the impotent man at the pool of Bethesda. It is a great subject, the discourse of Christ, following the healing as He was accused of the Jews of Sabbath breaking. 3LtMs, Lt 1, 1876, par. 6
We miss you both very much. Mary seems lost without Lucinda. 3LtMs, Lt 1, 1876, par. 7
Our China John is a treasure. He does just everything with a nicety that is surprising. Mary has to superintend the cooking. Lucinda had no such help as this to do the drudgery. He works for two dollars per week, while trying to learn to cook and talk. 3LtMs, Lt 1, 1876, par. 8
Yours with love. 3LtMs, Lt 1, 1876, par. 9