Confession and Restoration
By Washington Morse
Bro. Smith : Permit me to say a few words through the Review, to the saints scattered abroad. This is the first time for more than three years that I have felt it my duty to write a communication to be read by the numerous friends of the Cause. I might go on and give some reasons for this long silence did it seem duty to me, but those who are acquainted, or have been acquainted with me will forgive me in this without any further reasons. For more than two years past I have often felt that my position was like the lone tree standing upon the broad prairie, exposed to all the storms and tempests of earth; and I cannot help calling to mind some of those scenes while I write. O how oft sorrow has filled my heart until tears my cheeks have wet. Before I go further, I would say that I now write in reference to the doings of the church in Randolph, Vt., the spring after I left that State, which were published in the Review in relation to me. Those that took the Review well know what it was; and, strange as it may seem to my dear brethren, I have never been able to see and feel those charges to be true against me until within the last two weeks. I can now say to all of my brethren and sisters, if I may be allowed the expression, that I feel truly that God has forgiven me, and I greatly desire you to, and again extend the hand of fellowship. Though unworthy, my attachment to the Cause of present truth, and to those who are teaching the Third Angel's Message, the Sabbath, and other kindred truths, never was so strong as now. Although I have been seemingly alone, and separated from you in this far off land for nearly three years, and much of the time weighed down with trials, and almost overcharged with the cares of this life, yet I never doubted that we were hearing the last message of mercy that ever would be given to this world. Many times my poor heart has been quite light, and spirits free, in trying to defend it. I can truly say that the trials through which I have been passing have done me good, although I have felt sometimes that they were greater than I could bear. Yet, as the Scripture says, "Tribulation worketh patience, patience experience, experience hope, and hope maketh not ashamed." I feel that these words are true in my case. I do feel willing to bear and suffer much more than I ever did before in my life. I trust that some of the dross has been purged away. I feel that my whole being is now thrown into this blessed Cause. Never did I feel the weight of it as I have for a few days past. I have tried to lay all upon the altar, and dedicate my all to the Lord anew. And in conclusion I would say, dear brethren, give me a place among you, let me share in your burthens and trials, your joys and sorrows, though unworthy; and although I may not be able to make amends fully for the past now, still I hope and fondly trust that I shall be able to, with the blessing of the Lord, sooner or later. I am resolved to persevere, and go through to the kingdom. Your unworthy brother in tribulation,
WASHINGTON MORSE. Deerfield, Min. Jan., 1859.