p. 19 | H. H. VOTAW by H. H. VOTAW

Review and Herald Publishing Association · Washington, D. C. · Jan 26, 1905

H. H. VOTAW

By H. H. VOTAW

From London to India

THE Lord is working for us, and we are anxious to be in such a position that he can use us in building up his kingdom. Since coming aboard ship, we have had some interesting experiences. One evening I chanced to stop by the door of the smoking saloon upon the promenade deck. Inside were several men engaged in card-playing. As I looked inside, an onlooker said, “I suppose you have no such things [referring to the cards] among your belongings?” I replied in the negative.

Presently some one else asked a question, and from this a spirited conversation arose. As I endeavored, in the fear of God, to give a reason for my hope, the card game stopped, and if I should live for years, I could not wish for a more attentive audience. They asked questions freely, and God blessed in answering. As a result, one young man is reading “Daniel and the Revelation,” and another is attending daily Bible studies.

Almost as soon as we came on the boat, Mrs. Votaw told me she had espied a young woman whom she believed to be an American and also a missionary. I rather scouted the idea, but again woman's intuition proved its power, for in an informal conversation we learned she was both. Further talk revealed that her destination is Calcutta, and that this is her second trip out. She had spent four years in India, and had been home for rest. Her work is in connection with an orphanage conducted by the Christian Church. We were drawn to her from the first, and as opportunity opened, we talked freely upon Bible subjects. At first there was some conservatism, for she had been warned against Adventists. But she finally said, “Religion is a personal matter, and I'll study.” She seems to be blessed with a very tender conscience, and God alone knows the ultimate result of the work.

Pray for help, Christians. Pray! Pray! Pray! On this boat there are two men who have spent over forty years in India. There are some who were born there, and, as a matter of fact, by far the larger part of all the passengers are going to India. If men can go for every other purpose, can not men go for the gospel? Can men refuse to go?

In England almost every one has one or more relatives in India. A position there is considered a good opening for young men. One young man on board is going to accept a position in a bank in Calcutta, and has been in training for that purpose for three years. Another young man is going to work for an American insurance company. You may draw your own conclusions; but I am sure we shall stand without excuse if we dare not show as much zeal for Prince Emmanuel as the world shows in selfish pursuits.