BORROWED MONEY by James White

Publishing Committee · Battle Creek, Mich. · Feb 23, 1860

BORROWED MONEY.

By James White

To those who have so kindly and generously lent money to this Office, we wish to say, that as an individual, we do not wish to be considered in any way responsible for it. We act simply as publishing agent by direction of the Publishing Committee, for which we receive about three-fifths the amount of our yearly expenses. And there are no reasons why we should be responsible for borrowed money, used for the benefit of this Office which is the property of the Church at large. This property is not insured, therefore, in case of fire, would be a total loss. Those who consider it proper to let their money remain at the Office under these circumstances, will do so at their own risk.

We hope, however, that the time is not far distant when this people will be in that position necessary to be able to get church property insured, hold their meeting-houses in a proper manner, that those persons making their wills, and wishing to do so, can appropriate a portion to the publishing department. Till this can be brought around, we must do the best we can; but we wish it distinctly understood that we bear no individual responsibility in the matter. To illustrate: A sister in Vermont proposed to let the Office have the use of $100, without interest, as several others had done. The money was sent, and also a note filled out for us to sign. We refused to write James White, but in its place, wrote "Advent Review and Sabbath Herald Office," and sent it back to Vermont. In a few weeks the note was returned and the money called back. This was all done in good feeling.

We call on preachers and leading brethren to give this matter their attention. If any object to our suggestions, will they please write out a plan on which we as a people can act?

J. W.