Report from Bro. Butler.
By George I. Butler
SABBATH and Sunday, following the Lisbon meeting, I spent with the church at Laporte City. Quite a number were present from other places, and there was a good attendance of those living near, although the weather was inclement; and there seemed to be more generally a spirit of union prevailing than formerly, while some who have been alienated from us seemed more friendly. These were encouraging features. But I feel that there is much need of a deeper, more thorough heart-work in this church; a great need of a spirit of sacrifice, a giving up of the world, a deeper interest in the burden-bearing spirit. This church has manifested the least interest of any in the State, in raising means for the tent-enterprise and other burdens, in proportion to their property. Unless there is a reform in this respect, it is very evident God's blessing cannot rest upon them as upon others. Wednesday evening following, I met with the few at Fayette. Some ten or twelve are keeping the Sabbath there now, and some others for whom we feel a deep interest. Those who came out originally all remain firm. Meetings commenced at Waukon, Sabbath evening, Feb. 26, and held every day for a week. Sabbath and Sunday, there was a good attendance from other places. I trust some permanent good was accomplished by our meetings. Several causes of trial and discouragement we hope were permanently removed. I expected to have further meetings with this church, but received an invitation to attend the preliminary meetings at Battle Creek, that were to precede the General Conference, and thus had to close prematurely. March 5 and 6, met with the church at West Union. Our house of worship was crowded both days. Indeed we had the largest attendance I ever saw at West Union. The church have been encouraged of late by several becoming interested in the truth and keeping the Sabbath. Had it not been for lack of time and opportunity, there would have been a baptism in both places. Bro. Nason Hoyt, who has acted as leader in this church for several years, was elected and ordained elder. The liberality shown by the brethren in Waukon and West Union in subscribing on our tent and camp-meeting fund was very encouraging to me. Each church subscribed nearly ninety dollars, though they are generally poor in this world's goods, and times are very hard. I wish others would show more of the same spirit. It is the hardest year to raise money I have seen for a long time in Iowa, and for a time it seemed very doubtful if the fund necessary to get our tent top from the maker's hand, and for other necessary purposes, could be obtained. There is yet a necessity for our brethren in other parts of the State to take hold and help in this direction, if they wish to keep us from serious embarrassment. Money or subscription can be sent to R. M. Kilgore, Washington, Iowa, our State Conference treasurer.