A Lonely Believer Awaits Fellowship
By Lucinda W. Sims
Bro. Smith: I cheerfully improve this opportunity to say to you and to those scattered abroad, how dearly I prize the little, welcome sheet, (Review and Herald) which makes its weekly visits at our humble home, away in these western wilds, so remote from the noble, self-sacrificing band who are laboring to keep all the commandments, and to "teach men so." I learn through the columns of the Review that there are a goodly number of the brethren about fifty miles from us, in Mauston. It is cheering indeed to know that truth is spreading so rapidly, and is nearing this section of country. We would not ask a richer soil, a milder climate, more fertile plains or lovelier vales; but we are not quite contented. We would that the lot of some of the ministering brethren might be cast among us awhile, that the word may be spoken among this people also. Many a lonely hour have I experienced during the five years that I have been striving to keep all the commandments of God. And as I wend my way alone, yes, alone, save One, often does my faith seem to wane. But the week wears away, the holy Sabbath is ushered in, then this comforting and enlightening messenger of truth and salvation is brought to us. It cheers and encourages us to go onward, knowing it will not be long ere He will come whose right it is to reign, and will not tarry. I feel that the chariot wheels of time are carrying us rapidly onward. Soon, very soon will the last sands have run out, and earth have performed her last revolutions. O then that we may be ready for the great day of the Lord, is my prayer. May we be kept in the faith and so escape the seven last plagues. Melrose, Wis., Dec. 5th, 1858.