Marian Davis Joins the Force

When W. C. White, in early February, returned from the General Conference session held in Battle Creek, Michigan, he brought with him quite a company of workers. It included Elder and Mrs. L. R. Conradi and Marian Davis. Commented Ellen when she got the word that they would soon be in Basel, “This settles the question that we shall remain in Europe during the best portion of the year 1886. We shall prepare books here and have them published here” (Letter 94, 1886).WV 239.6

As spring came to Switzerland, plans were being laid for the work in Europe. Ellen White wrote in a newsy letter:WV 239.7

We are now contemplating another journey to Italy. We should visit other churches; they are calling for us loudly. They call for us to again visit Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. These places demand much hard work and I dread it, but I may feel that I must go. Jesus lived not to please Himself. I do not know as we will get away from here this winter. May the Lord direct (Letter 11, 1886).WV 239.8

Ten days later, Thursday morning, April 15, Ellen, accompanied by Sara, Willie, and Mary, boarded the train for Italy. On Friday they were in Torre Pellice again at the home of A. C. Bourdeau (Manuscript 62, 1886).WV 240.1

Six weeks intervened between their return to Basel and the time they had to be off for the second round of visits to the Scandinavian countries. These weeks were used by Ellen in literary work and in weekend visits to nearby churches.WV 240.2