An Explanation by J. M. A.

The Seventh-day Adventist Publishing Association · Battle Creek, Mich. · Dec 5, 1865

An Explanation.

By J. M. A.

WHILST the brethren so kindly remember the sick preachers at "Dr. Jackson's hospital," by their tokens of liberality and Christian regard, it is proper that a few words of explanation be given, that all may act understandingly, and without prejudice or partiality, and as I took the liberty a short time since, in connection with the donation of Bro. Root, to make a suggestion for the benefit of our afflicted preachers, I will now take the responsibility of saying what seems to me proper under the circumstances.

In the first place, it should be understood, that the object of donating to these ministers, under the present circumstances, should not be for the purpose of increasing their personal wealth or capital stock, (if by rare chance they happen to be possessed of any such tangible substance,) but rather for the purpose of paying the heavy expenses they have to incur during their stay at Dansville, and the support of their families meantime.

This being the prime object in view, it may be seen from some of the receipts given in the Review, that there is a considerable inequality in the distribution of donations among the several ministers, considering their respective expenses. The expense of Bro. White and family, and the team that they have the use of, is about forty dollars per week; and Bro. Loughborough's, including his family expenses at home, is about half that amount. Hence, money that is sent in for our invalid preachers, when not otherwise directed, is distributed between them in the ratio of their expenses. Those brethren, therefore, whose liberality has been thus disposed of, will understand and appreciate the reason for so doing. Other brethren, doubtless, to avoid what might seem to be showing partiality, have divided their bounties equally between Brn. White, Loughborough and Bourdeau, which in fact, under existing circumstances, is very unequal.

Bro. Bourdeau went to Dansville early in the Summer, since which time he has been receiving liberally from the hands of his brethren. He has now so far recovered his health, as to be able to leave the institution, and go home. The brethren have nobly and generously provided for him during his stay at Dansville, so that his expenses there have been amply paid, and something over, for which, together with the measure of health restored to him, all should feel thankful. He is now at home, comparatively free from expense. Not so, however, with Brn. White and Loughborough. They were sent to the "hospital" at a more recent date, and though they have been kindly remembered thus far, it should be borne in mind that their expenses are very heavy, and probably must be so for some time to come. Pardon me then, brethren, for suggesting, that in making future donations for invalid preachers, we observe the true principle of equality.

Bro. Bourdeau's kind and Christian heart will excuse you for the present, from further drafts upon your benevolence, and also pardon me for saying what I have. Neither will Bro. Loughborough consider himself slighted, should he fail to receive as much from your liberality as Bro. White. I make the foregoing statement that, in this important matter, the brethren may act understandingly, and without fear, prejudice or partiality.

Let the ball keep rolling. Meantime let thousands pray that God may interpose speedily in behalf of his afflicted servants. J. M. A.