TENT MEETING AT RICHMOND, IOWA.
By Merritt E. Cornell
This meeting continued over three Sabbaths, and most of the time there was good attendance and a good interest manifested. Much of the time the weather was very rainy, and the wind very hard. Our stakes gave way once, and the tent top was torn the entire length, and once the center pole was thrown down by some enemy's cutting a rope in the night. We were several times interrupted by ministers contradicting and speaking out or whispering to the annoyance of both speaker and hearers. They sent for the most talented Methodist minister in the State to come and take up against us; but he condescended to such low black-guard and slang that even many of his own members were disgusted with his sermon. The cause of truth was advanced by the effort. On the last day of the meeting a vote was taken to know how many were willing to acknowledge that we had preached the truth there, and about fifty rose up. Then all were requested to rise who were decided to keep the Sabbath, and only about fifteen or twenty new ones arose. About six or seven hundred persons were present and most of them repaired to the water to witness the baptismal scene, which was one of unusual solemnity. Many were affected to tears while humble souls bowed to the yoke of Christ. After returning from the water we found the interest so great that Bro. Hull concluded to stay another week, and occupy one of the two-meeting houses which were freely offered. It is due that we here state that the regular Baptist minister of the place, from the beginning pursued a course in relation to our meetings every way becoming a gentleman and a christian. He supplied himself with our publications for investigation, and it is to be hoped that he will come out on the right side. About $15 worth of books were taken, and eight subscribed for the Review. Bro. Hull will finish the report after his meetings are through.