Volney, Iowa, Dec. 24, 1857
My Dear Children,
Here we are, twelve miles from Waukon. We have had a tedious
time in getting thus far. Yesterday our horses for miles had to plow
through snow very deep, but on we came, feeling confident that our
mission was of God. Last Monday we could get no food that was fit to
eat, and therefore rode in the coldest weather I ever saw, from morning
until night, with nothing to eat but one apple. Oh, how thankful I shall
be to see home, sweet home, again, and my three dear boys, Henry,
Edson, and Willie.
Children, strive to do right, and love the Lord for his merciful
kindness to you all. Obey those who have the care of you as you would
your parents. Be kind to each other, and yield to each other’s wishes.
Don’t become unsteady. Read the precious word of God.
You should be thankful for your comfortable home. We often
suffer with cold on account of unfinished and open houses. Last night
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we slept in a chamber where there was an opening through the top
for the stove-pipe. If it had stormed it would have come direct in our
faces. Pray for us. Unless the Lord opens the way for us to return, we
may be blocked in with snow, and have to remain all winter.
I hope, dear Henry, that you are a good boy, and are happy in doing
right. Continue to strive to be faithful in all things. We received your
letter, and were much pleased to hear from you. We think you have
made improvements in setting type. Be faithful, children, in all things.
The Lord will soon come and take the good and holy to himself. We
want you to live among the pure and holy angels in heaven, and wear a
crown of gold, and eat of the tree of life. Trust in the Lord at all times.
Listen to the voice of conscience. Love God and you will have his
approving smile. What a thought, to have the great God, the maker of
the heavens and the earth, to smile upon and love you. Dear children,
seek for this, pray for it, live for it.
Your affectionate Mother.
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