Napa City, Cal., Feb. 16
By Merritt E. Cornell
At the time of my last report, I was at Little River on the coast where several persons embraced the truth, and are now observing the Sabbath. Two were baptized. I felt well paid for my stay there, though I had to labor against strong opposing elements; for those who came out, have taken hold of the whole truth, and received it with great gladness of heart. The family of Bro. Reuel Stickney did all in their power to make my stay with them pleasant. My health was greatly improved by the rest and recreation along the ocean beach. I can never forget the kindness of friends there, and I trust the seed sown in that place may yet bring forth more fruit unto eternal life. On my return, I spent three days very pleasantly and profitably at the home of Bro. and sister White. I was greatly encouraged by their courage, and I rejoiced to find them in such good health and spirits. I was glad also to meet sister Van Horn and sister Hall. It seemed almost like being back in old Michigan, to see so many of the old hands in the cause. They all seemed to do what they could to make this lone pilgrim feel at home with them, and they succeeded well. I noticed that all these were workers! There is not a drone in that hive. The very height of their ambition and pleasure seemed to be in doing what they could to advance the cause of present truth. Their zeal for God made me feel that I could do a little more in the good cause. From this on, I want to feel at the close of each day that I have done what I could. Since my return, I spent a few days at St. Helena trying to encourage them in their meeting-house enterprise both in word and deed. They have met with some opposition, but they seem to be doing nobly in the battle and are of good courage. At the present, I am giving a course of lectures in the old Methodist church in this city. The prospect is good for several additions to our numbers here. The interest to hear is as good as ever, and several are hearing who never heard before. Our new meeting-house is now receiving the finishing coat of plastering, and will be ready for dedication in about four weeks. It is the neatest and best finished house in the city, and all seem pleased with it. Bro. and sister White are earnestly requested to come and dedicate this house of worship, and speak a few times to the people. All of our people, and the public generally, are anxious to see and hear them. We think a visit from them would give a new impetus to the cause in this valley. May the Lord direct. M. E. CORNELL.