Lt 21, 1870

White, J. E.; White, Emma

Battle Creek, Michigan

December 2, 1870

Previously unpublished.

Dear Children:

I have but a few moments and will improve them. Father has been nearly sick with congestion of the lungs. He is better now. We thought that we should have to leave everything and go away with him.2LtMs, Lt 21, 1870, par. 1

Robert and Mary Sawyer were here. We thought we would go to Greenville, but there is no one here to take Father’s place. A change is to take place in the papers,—Review to be enlarged, the Instructor enlarged, and it is an important time. Father decided to remain and trust in God for strength.2LtMs, Lt 21, 1870, par. 2

Brother Gage is yet very low. His case is very doubtful; unless the Lord hears prayer in his behalf, he must go down. His course has been a singular one. He left the work here when he was much needed—Uriah down sick, your father absent and Charlie, Brother and Sister Gage went to Chicago.2LtMs, Lt 21, 1870, par. 3

He sat up at the depot a cold, rainy night, until two in the morning, waiting for the cars. He tramped around Chicago all day in the rain and all of two days, I think, and took the two o’clock train back in the morning; was deprived of two nights rest all for the sake of their own gratification. Charlie has asked, Why Brother and Sister Gage left. “To accompany me” was the answer. Well, “Why did you go Charlie?” “Because I wanted to see the place. I never had been to any large place like Chicago.” God did not sustain Brother Gage in his pleasure trip. Fever came upon him in a few days, and he has been sick about six weeks. It does not pay to chase after pleasure.2LtMs, Lt 21, 1870, par. 4

Now the reflection from the family falls upon the office. He worked so hard he became sick. His own imprudent course has brought around the sure result.2LtMs, Lt 21, 1870, par. 5

Those in Battle Creek who have had so many warnings and so much light, yet have not heeded it, God will come near unto them in judgment.2LtMs, Lt 21, 1870, par. 6

Yesterday I went into the house Brother Gage occupies and talked with Sister Gage and her Mother in regard to these things. I told her that now she had an opportunity to see how important [it is] to have a little surplus means laid by for such an occasion. They have not a cent to rely upon but are dependent upon his brethren, or will have to run in debt. This is what comes of pleasure-seeking and extravagance.2LtMs, Lt 21, 1870, par. 7

I told Sister Gage if they had twenty dollars per month they would use every dollar the same as if they had only eight or twelve. Brother Gage has twelve dollars a week. With economy and the present low prices he could have a snug little sum laid by, but no, they have nothing and Brother Gage has had two relapses, worrying in regard to how his family was to be provided for. We feel sad that the Jones family are as trivial and so little to be relied upon. We hope, Edson, you will make God your guide.2LtMs, Lt 21, 1870, par. 8

We expect to come and see you before many weeks. We did not want to go to Greenville till we could come and make you a visit. As soon as it will do to leave, we shall do so. Father has thought if he could get another horse, he might let you have old John to keep if you would pledge yourself to use him real well. He is a very profitable horse, with the best of care. What do you think about it?2LtMs, Lt 21, 1870, par. 9

Write us as often as once a week, [even] if it is but a few lines.2LtMs, Lt 21, 1870, par. 10

I have written in great haste.2LtMs, Lt 21, 1870, par. 11

Your Mother.2LtMs, Lt 21, 1870, par. 12

P.S. I commenced a letter a week ago but wanted to decide whether we should come to see you now or wait a few weeks.2LtMs, Lt 21, 1870, par. 13