Camp-Meeting at Merrillon, Wisconsin.
By George C. Tenney
It was something of an experiment to appoint a meeting in this part of the State; but the result has justified the movement, although the attendance was not quite as large as was anticipated, or as it should have been, because, no doubt, many who did not come might have done so by a proper effort. But those who did come enjoyed a blessing which amply repaid their trouble and sacrifice. There were about thirty tents pitched in a grove of young pines. The weather was fine, except for a rain on Sabbath afternoon and the evening following. All who came seemed to have done so for the purpose of seeking the blessing of God, and his Spirit was present to reprove of sin and neglect, and to teach the way of truth. The practical duties of the Christian, Spiritual Gifts, plainness of dress, tithing, and the tract and missionary work received particular attention. The camp was so divided as to bring every individual under the personal care of a minister. The surrounding groves afforded good opportunity for secret devotions; and as there were no business meetings to divide the attention, the circumstances all seemed to favor a spiritual meeting. There was one favorable feature in nearly all the good resolutions expressed—they were practical, they covered some definite point. One day of the meeting was given to the children and Sunday-school work. The day was a profitable one, and several children publicly came to the Saviour for his blessing. A praise-meeting was held at which we spoke of our blessings, and expressed the praise of God. After about two hours, want of time closed the meeting while many evidently desired to bear their testimonies. At this and a few previous local meetings about $1,200 have been raised to aid the work in canvassing for the Signs of the Times. This was said by many to have been the best meeting they ever attended, and it is to be hoped it may prove to be a permanent blessing to the cause in this portion of State; and should another be held doubtless the attendance would be larger.