L. L. HOWARD

Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Nov 16, 1869

From Brn. Howard and Stratton.

DEAR BRETHREN AND SISTERS OF MAINE: After looking over the matter, I feel that a word of confession is due you, and the brethren generally, in regard to my position at the session of our State Conference recently. I think I stood in the way of Bro. Waggoner's testimony to the brethren and sisters in Maine, I had a feeling and spirit toward Bro. W. which was wrong, and which led me to say some things that I fear will injure the precious cause of truth in this State. As I cannot see you all at present, I feel that a word through the paper is due from me. I hope you will forgive me, and I pray that the Lord will also. There was no reason why I should not have united heartily with Bro. W., and supported his remarks at the Conference. I hope I shall learn wisdom.

L. L. HOWARD

Rome., Oct. 21, 1869.

In regard to the matter referred to by Bro. Howard, I also wish to correct an error on my part. When Bro. Waggoner appealed to me as to the correctness of his statement of some things that transpired last winter, I replied that he put it in pretty strong terms. I am now satisfied that in this I erred; that Bro. W. did not exaggerate the facts, and my answer was calculated to give the impression that he was bearing too hard on Bro. Howard, which I am well satisfied was not the case. As far as this has had the effect to prejudice any against the position taken by Bro. W. in the Conference, and the testimonies delivered there, I deeply regret and feel sorry for. As Bro. Waggoner is laboring hard for the good of the cause, I would do nothing against it, but for it.

CHAS. STRATTON.