Letter from Bro. Waggoner.
By J. H. Waggoner
DEAR BRO. WHITE:—While at Detroit, a few days since, I had conversation with Elder J. V. Himes, in which he stated that believers in the third angel's message did not keep the Sabbath according to their profession. I answered, that as far as I was acquainted with them they endeavored to keep it 'according to the commandment,' and the comment of our Saviour thereon. He said that was not the case in the East, especially in Vermont. That on conference occasions, &c., they traveled from twenty to forty miles on the Sabbath to attend the meetings; and when not absent from home, they cut their wood, &c., on that day, and generally made it a day of visiting, after the manner in which many nominal Sunday-keepers observe that day. Now I have several reasons for laying this matter before you. 1. Elder Himes' position as a public man and minister gives importance to any statement he may make of this kind. 2. You have just been in Vermont, and other Eastern States, and of course know whether these things are so. 3. If these statements are true it is of importance that they be attended to immediately. I am truly surprised that an accusation of this kind should be brought against any of the brethren East, as I supposed they generally had the Spirit of the message, and if they had, their consciences would never allow them to desecrate the holy Sabbath in such a manner. As such statements may be made in many parts of the West, I wish you would, at your earliest convenience, let me know how the Sabbath is regarded in the East, and especially in Vermont. Information given soon, will reach me at Kingsbury, Laporte Co. Ind., as I shall probably go there in a few days. Yours for the truth. J. H. WAGGONER. Jackson, Mich., Oct 27th, 1853. P. S. I sent word to Eld. Himes by Bro. Cornell that I considered it duty to inquire into these things. He made no objection, nor offered any explanation, so that I do not consider the above statements strictly private, though made in private conversation.