Memories of Early Adventist Meetings
By M. A. Stroud
BRO. SMYTH: I have read Life Incidents, and Bro. Bates' Autobiography, with deep interest. They carry me back to “days of long ago.” Judge Hopper, that Bro. Bates speaks of, was well known by my father. I know not but he may yet be living. If he still lives the above books should fall into his hands, as I believe they would deeply interest him. I was quite small when Bro. Bates held meetings in Chester, Kent Co., Maryland, only seven miles distant from the place of my nativity; but I can remember that some were greatly excited. The hymn Bro. White sung alone at Litchfield Plains is the only one I can call to mind as having heard sung at Bro. Bates' meeting. Child as I was, that hymn would charm me, and while hearing it sung I would look heavenward and dwell upon the grandeur of such a scene as that hymn presented to my imagination. I do not wonder that Bro. White's congregation were so enraptured at hearing that sweet hymn sung. If ministers would more frequently open meetings by singing, as did Bro. White, much good might result therefrom. When about fourteen I attended a Methodist camp-meeting. A minister arose in the stand and sung distinctly, and sweetly, “The pearl for me.” Though it was a familiar hymn, it had never so enraptured me as then. He little thought, as he ceased singing, that that hymn had left an impression upon my heart never to be obliterated by time. “Cast thy bread upon the waters; for thou shalt find it after many days.” From my earliest recollection, preaching, and music, either vocal or instrumental, has ever had the greatest charm for me. Now that I am denied the sweet boon of hearing, a feeling of sadness at times creeps over me; but I soon banish such thoughts, believing that every dark cloud hath a silvery lining, and it is my duty to pierce through the darkness to the light beyond. God's promises are sure, and my trust in them unwavering. “What I do thou knowest not now; but thou shalt know hereafter.” Sweet promise! “Even so, Father; for so it seemeth good in thy sight.” “One precious boon, O Lord, I seek,
While tossed upon life's billowy sea;
To hear a voice within me speak,
Thy Saviour is well pleased with thee.” Sometimes I get so weak, and the battle waxes so warm, that I fear the victory will never be mine. I then ask myself if I shall give up the struggle; my heart replies, Never! “No; I was not born to trifle
Life away in dreams of sin;
No; I was not born to stifle
Longings such as these within.” Pray for me, dear brethren and sisters, that I may “endure unto the end, for the same shall he saved.” Precious promise! How it cheers me on in the path to heavenly joy.
M. A. STROUD.