Avilla, Mo., Dec., 1869
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Avilla, Mo., Dec., 1869
By H. C. Blanchard
The cause is progressing here. Here are some fifty who are keeping the Sabbath, and there is a good interest to hear. I have not had the privilege for some time, of preaching in Avilla. The Methodists are using the lock-out argument. First they refused us their meeting-house, and then managed to shut us out of the school-house. But I know it will result in good; for locking me out of the school-house, they shut three other denominations out, and in order to keep their friendship, they invited them to preach in their house. But their house being unfinished, and having no stoves, it was unfit to hold meetings in, which, of course, had its effect on the public mind. They have, however, stoves in the house now, and while there is no place for me to reply, the M. E. preacher, Mr. Wells, has commenced a course of lectures against us. I was holding meetings, five miles north of Avilla, but dismissed and went to hear Mr. Wells. I have attended four of his meetings; but for some cause best known to himself he has stopped his lectures for the present. I am of the opinion he would have continued if I had not been on hand taking notes. His lectures, so far, are composed of much error, with a small mixture of truth, dealt out with an unskillful hand. If the Lord will, I shall review him when he gets through. I am now engaged in raising means to build a meeting-house; I have raised between five and six hundred dollars. Trusting I shall have your prayers, I remain, Your brother, in hope, H. C. BLANCHARD.