CAMP-MEETING IN DAYTON, W. T.
By Editor
In several respects this camp-meeting was held under quite unfavorable circumstances. The crops last year were nearly a failure; heavy freight charges, and good crops elsewhere, brought the prices down, and much of the scanty crop remains unshipped. Long-continued dry weather was ruining the crop of this year, and a heavy depression had settled upon almost everybody. Not nearly all the Sabbath-keepers of the Conference were present at the meeting. I was informed that a number of those present came on borrowed money. However, the rain came in the early part of the meeting; with high winds, and cold. But the discomfort was not complained of, as the rain was such a blessing to the country. A business man of Walla Walla said to me, that if it had continued dry three weeks longer, the whole valley would have been nearly bankrupted. As it is, crops will be light; but something will probably be secured where nothing was expected a week ago. The business of the Conference and of the several associations was expeditiously and harmoniously transacted, and the religious interest was given a large part of the time. Sabbath was devoted entirely to exercises for the benefit of the brethren and sisters present. In the afternoon we had a most interesting and profitable meeting. A large number came forward, for the size of the meeting. The confessions were not so general as usual on such occasions, but pointed; each one seemed to have a specified object in view, and worked toward it. We had made a special effort on the subject of family prayer, having reason to believe it was largely neglected, and quite a number confessed to this neglect, and made hearty promises of amendment. Several young and middle aged people started in the service of the Lord. It was considered by all a decided victory for the cause of truth in this Conference, and great encouragement was the result. Thirteen were baptized on Sunday afternoon, and one on Tuesday morning, just at the breaking up of the meeting. The camp-ground was in a cottonwood grove, with a good spring in the midst, and a beautiful mountain stream running through it.283We did not have to leave the camp for baptism.
Sunday was a clear day; our congregations were good in size, and attentive. Also on Monday night, our last public meeting. A good impression was made on the community, and prejudice was removed where it had existed. Elder Colcord has become now pretty well acquainted with the field, and is interested deeply in the work in its several branches. Just at present it does not offer large money inducements, but Bro. C. is finding the hearts and sympathies of the people, which is worth more than money. Sister Colcord is proving herself an earnest worker, and her labor cannot fail to be appreciated here. My visit to this field has been pleasant and profitable to me, and I hope it may prove of profit to the cause. It has afforded me much pleasure to form so many new acquaintances in this country; and my interest in the work in this Conference is thereby increased. My prayer shall be for its prosperity.