TO THE V. M. WORKERS IN MAINE.
By Eliza H. Morton
In comparison with other States, Maine is, perhaps, in the back-ground in regard to the tract and missionary work. This “ought not so to be.” In the State of Maine there is talent which should be developed and used in the cause of God. The V. M. societies started about a year ago in this State have done a good work; and although in one of these societies, at least, most of the labor of putting up the papers and corresponding with those receiving them has been done by one or two sisters, yet the work has prospered. A few scattered sisters have kindly sent us from time to time encouraging words, small sums of money, and old papers, for which we thank them. Little favors do much to help lighten the burden. There are in the State of Maine many noble-minded sisters who have never, as yet, realized the amount of good they are capable of doing, and have never had their zeal kindled in the missionary work. O my dear sisters, would that I could write burning words—words that would thrill your very souls, and awaken in your hearts earnest longings for a part in this closing, warning message. Would that I could paint in glowing colors the result of loving, unselfish acts of kindness. Would that I could describe the ineffable glory of the coming harvest, and portray the dazzling splendor of the reward that awaits “those who turn many to righteousness.” Human language is weak, and I can only urge you to begin now, and do what you can to “redeem the time.” If you wish for blessings, work for them. Labor will bring its own reward. The V. M. societies need your assistance. Write to us, and send us names and money. We need means; our hands are tied for want of what you can send without ever missing it. A few cents may be instrumental in saving a few souls. Who can estimate the result of the smallest offering? The following extracts from letters received by the Allen’s Corner V. M. Society tend to show how the truth is received by the people. A gentleman from Brownfield writes: “I have been carefully reading the SIGNS OF THE TIMES and the tracts you sent, and I cannot find words to express my thanks for them. I think they are founded on sound doctrine, and if we would all heed their warning we could not fail to grow wiser and better in the sight of God.” A gentleman from Bath writes: “I have been much interested in the papers you sent. Any other reading matter of like description that you may choose to send I will read and circulate. I am convinced that there are grand and glorious truths revealed in the word of God, that are sadly overlooked in these days.” A lady from California writes: “I feel thankful for the tracts you sent. I have been taught that Sunday should be kept holy, but I shall try to get more light on the subject.” A gentleman from Anson writes: “The paper has been received, and read by my own family and often passed to others for perusal by my wife, who has for some time past strongly sympathized with its sentiments in many respects. We desire to accept truth, and hope that we may clearly see the path of duty.” We have received encouraging letters from Sweden (Europe), and have sent papers to England, Ireland, and Scotland. The work is going with mighty power. The wheel turns swiftly that God’s hand propels, and soon the last, the closing cry will be given and the laboring time be over. “Who, who is there among us” that will respond to the call, and nobly aid in spreading the glorious truth in the Pine Tree State, and, indeed, all over the world?