The Cause in Wisconsin.
By Isaac Sanborn
As it may be interesting to the brethren to know something about the prosperity of the cause in Wisconsin, I take this opportunity to say that the Lord is still bringing up his people. Our meetings at Hundred Mile Grove were good and refreshing to all. At Marquette our meetings were timely, cutting off an injudicious fear from some who had taken an extreme view of the Wisconsin fanaticism, which was to think that if a brother or sister became engaged, or earnest in prayer and exhortation, they were fanatics. This was all corrected, with some other things; so we left them in quite a prosperous condition. Those who have rebelled against the visions are literally dying out of the way of the truth,—even giving up the Sabbath. At Mackford we found the church laboring under some difficulty growing out of extreme views taken of the fanaticism by some, which we believe was thoroughly corrected. Here we baptized four on the Sabbath. We had excellent meetings. This church has purchased timber to build a meeting-house 26 x 40. From there we went to Mauston and found things in a confused condition, but with the help of God we labored faithfully till we organized a church of twenty-seven members, and others are trying to fit themselves by the word of God that they may unite with the church. We baptized two last first-day. I certainly never saw brethren manifest a greater determination to get right. Some who had been opposed to the visions and organization, after they heard us preach on those subjects, gave up their opposition and are now united with the church. They have adopted the plan of systematic benevolence, which amounts to nearly $100 a year. Bro. Steward is preparing to go out into new fields to labor. He is much encouraged with the prospect in the Mauston church; and I do hope they will stay up his hands and encourage him that he may go out free. Bro. J. R. Goodenough parted with us at this meeting. He is improving fast, in many respects; and I trust the Lord will make an efficient laborer of him. We attended the ordinances this evening, and had a melting time. Many were made to feel their need of a Saviour; and we trust will get ready and unite with the church. I shall hold this meeting in lasting remembrance. The church kindly looked after my wants and helped me on the way after a godly sort, for which I believe God will bless them abundantly, and I trust will keep them faithful unto his everlasting kingdom. Mauston, Wis., Dec. 4, 1862.