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Daughters of God
You will now be looked to by many and criticized to see how you
will come forth from Sister White’s teachings. Do not misrepresent
me, but seek to give influence by your course of action. Ever be true,
open, sincere, and frank. All affectation despise. Keep yourself aloof
from young men. Let them know that there is one girl who will not be
crazy and bewildered at their first notice and attentions. I want you to
be prepared to travel with me and help me, if I want you.
You see those who have married cease their improvement and
settle down to a dwarfed life. Be not afraid to tell me your whole
mind and to seek counsel, and I will give you all the help I can. But
above everything else, preserve self-control and a self-possession and
womanly ways without appearing to know everything. Do not claim
to know too much. Be modest in conversation, for people will be
disgusted if a young girl talks as if she knew a great deal. You may
evidence your wisdom by works, but do not do this by words and
self-praise. Be cautious, discreet, and humble.
We want to learn daily in the school of Christ. Now, my dear
daughter, I have written you much more than I expected to write, but I
may not get a chance to write very soon again.
I am glad you do not live in Italy, at least in this valley, for women
and girls have a hard lot. They work very hard, and fourteen hours per
day, and obtain less than twenty cents per day. We need missionaries
all through this valley. There are men who live high, who are paid as
missionaries, but who do nothing in missionary work. They eat and
drink and have a good time. They are supported by societies from
England.—
Letter 28, 1885
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