Public Labors in 1877
183
Monday evening I stood in the stand at a tent meeting in progress
at Danvers, Mass. A large congregation was before me. I was too
weary to arrange my thoughts in connected words; I felt that I must
have help, and asked for it with my whole heart. I knew if any degree
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of success attended my labors, it would be through the strength of the
Mighty One.
The Spirit of the Lord rested upon me as I attempted to speak.
Like a shock of electricity I felt it upon my heart, and all pain was
instantly removed. I had suffered great pain in the nerves centering
in the brain; this also was entirely removed. My irritated throat and
sore lungs were relieved. My left arm and hand had become nearly
useless in consequence of pain in my heart; but natural feeling was
now restored. My mind was clear; my soul was full of the light and
love of God. Angels of God seemed to be on every side, like a wall of
fire.
Before me were a people whom I might not meet again until the
judgment; and the desire for their salvation led me to speak earnestly
and in the fear of God, that I might be free from their blood. Great
freedom attended my effort, which occupied one hour and ten minutes.
Jesus was my helper, and His name shall have all the glory. The
audience was very attentive.
We returned to Groveland on Tuesday to find the camp breaking
up, tents being struck, our brethren saying farewell, and ready to step
on board the cars to return to their homes. This was one of the best
camp meetings I ever attended.
In the afternoon Elder Haskell took us in his carriage, and we
started for South Lancaster, to rest at his home for a time.
We decided to travel by private conveyance a part of the way to
the Vermont camp meeting, as we thought this would be beneficial to
my husband. At noon we would stop by the roadside, kindle a fire,
prepare our lunch, and have a season of prayer. These precious hours
spent in company with Brother and Sister Haskell, Sister Ings, and
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Sister Huntley, will never be forgotten. Our prayers went up to God all
the way from South Lancaster to Vermont. After traveling three days,
we took the cars, and thus completed our journey.
This meeting was of especial benefit to the cause in Vermont. The
Lord gave me strength to speak to the people as often as once each
day.