UPPER COLUMBIA CAMP-MEETING.
By Ellet Joseph Waggoner
THIS meeting was held at Milton, Oregon, May 24-31. There were 40 tents pitched, and about 175 persons encamped on the ground. The camp was pleasantly located in a beautiful grove not far from the village. Elder Underwood and myself reached the ground Wednesday, and found the preparations for the meeting nearly completed. Brother and Sister Grainger accompanied us to represent the interests of the Healdsburg College. Brother and Sister E. M. Morrison were also with us, he to look after the interests of the canvassing work, while Sister Morrison rendered efficient service in holding children's meetings. These meetings were a great blessing to many of the young people and children, and so were a great help to the camp-meeting. Indeed the labors of these brethren and sisters from California did much to make this and the meeting at Portland the successful meetings which they were. We enjoyed their labor and association very much. We were glad to meet Brethren H. W. Decker and Fero, and other old acquaintances, at this place. The burden of the preaching fell upon Elder Underwood and myself, and was principally of a practical nature, designed to arouse the hearer to the importance of putting away all sin and of being prepared to stand in the Judgment. The Spirit of the Saviour was manifestly present and sent conviction to the hearts of many. Heart-felt confessions were made, and freedom and light returned to those who earnestly sought God. I never was in a meeting where the spirit of confession seemed to go so deep and thorough, and those who participated in it were greatly blessed of God. The meeting was not as free as the one at East Portland, yet we think it will be a great help to the cause. The people felt the need of a reserve fund for their tract society, and so they raised one of about $1,500, in pledges. Steps were taken to open a mission at Spokane Falls. On Monday fifteen were baptized by Brother Decker, in the Walla Walla River near by. The business matters in the Conference and Tract and Missionary Society passed off pleasantly and harmoniously. Elder Decker was chosen President of each, Brother Scoles, Secretary of the Conference, and Sister Fero Secretary of the Tract and Missionary Society. There has been some success in the cause in this Conference the past year; we hope and believe we shall see a great increase in the year to come. Our labors on the Pacific Coast have been pleasant indeed. We have formed many new and we trust lasting acquaintances. The cause is prospering here. The light of truth is spreading, and we see tokens everywhere of its onward march. We pray that the meetings recently held, will add somewhat to its prosperity and advancement.