New Tent for Southern Illinois.
By G. W. Colcord
We call the attention of our friends in this part of the State to a consideration of the following fact: We are in pressing need of a new tent for our part of the field. Bro. R. F. Andrews says a new tent must be secured for this Conference, and that, too, early this spring. Although the truth is one everywhere, and the whole world is the field, and, therefore, we should not be sectional in our efforts, yet justice and equality should be seen in all our works. Who, among our Southern Illinois brethren and sisters, are willing to aid in paying for said tent? Rather, who are not willing? Before rendering a final decision, note these facts:— As yet, our part of the field has not been self-sustaining. We raised a sum of money for the tent enterprise in 1872; but our expenses in connection with tent labor in that, and last, year, have been more than equal to that sum. Again, we pay Systematic Benevolence into the State treasury; but this income has not been equal to our current expenditures, to say nothing of the cost of labor furnished us from abroad; thus we are brought under obligations to both our State Executive, and General Conference, Committees. I hope we shall all realize it, and show our appreciation by freely giving of our means to the wants of the cause of God, especially when we can see lacks right in our midst! Southern Illinois ought to pay back principal and interest; and, under the blessing of God, we hope it will. Who will join us in the effort to bring about this just result? We shall use the old wall, poles, blocks, and part of the ropes, of the old tent, but must have a new top, which will cost, perhaps, more than $300.00. Now, let your pledges come in. Those who can, please redeem said pledges by the first of May; but those who cannot pay sooner, may have till Aug. 1, 1874. Scattered brethren and sisters, respond. Send your pledges to G. W. Colcord,
Greenup, Cumberland Co., Ill.
(Care of O. H. Bliss.) But when you redeem your promises, send your bank draft or your money order (drawn on Sterling, Ill.) to I. Colcord,
Coleta, Whiteside Co., Ill.
G. W. Colcord.