Separation from the Church
37
convinced that we ought no longer to attend the class meeting. The
hope of the glorious appearing of Christ filled our souls, and would
find expression when we rose to speak. It was evident that we could
have no freedom in the class meeting; for our testimony provoked
sneers and taunts that reached our ears at the close of the meeting,
[47]
from brethren and sisters whom we had respected and loved.
Spreading the Advent Message
The Adventists held meetings at this time in Beethoven Hall. My
father, with his family, attended them quite regularly. The period of the
second advent was thought to be in the year 1843. The time seemed so
short in which souls could be saved that I resolved to do all that was
in my power to lead sinners into the light of truth.
I had two sisters at home,—Sarah, who was several years older
than myself, and my twin sister Elizabeth. We talked the matter over
among ourselves, and decided to earn what money we could, and
spend it in buying books and tracts to be distributed gratuitously. This
was the best we could do, and we did this little gladly.
Our father was a hatter, and it was my allotted task to make the
crowns of the hats, that being the easiest part of the work. I also knit
stockings at twenty-five cents a pair. My heart was so weak that I was
obliged to sit propped up in bed to do this work; but day after day I sat
there, happy that my trembling fingers could do something to bring
in a little pittance for the cause I loved so dearly. Twenty-five cents a
day was all I could earn. How carefully would I lay aside the precious
bits of silver taken in return, which were to be expended for reading
matter to enlighten and arouse those who were in darkness!
I had no temptation to spend my earnings for my own personal
gratification. My dress was plain; nothing was spent for needless
ornaments, for vain display appeared sinful in my eyes. So I had ever a
little fund in store with which to purchase suitable books. These were
[48]
placed in the hands of experienced persons to send abroad.
Every leaf of this printed matter seemed precious in my eyes; for
it was as a messenger of light to the world, bidding them prepare for
the great event near at hand. The salvation of souls was the burden of
my mind, and my heart ached for those who flattered themselves that