Belden, Vina
St. Helena, California
December 16, 1906
This letter is published in entirety in 10MR 145-146.
Mrs. Vina Belden
Dear Sister Belden:
We received your letter today and have had copies made and sent to the brothers Frank and Charlie Belden. 21LtMs, Lt 393, 1906, par. 1
By last mail we sent you a draft from Frank. This draft came several weeks before, but there was no boat until last week. The sailing of boats for Australia has of late been very uncertain. 21LtMs, Lt 393, 1906, par. 2
I know that poor Stephen must have suffered severely, but let us be thankful that the end came quietly. Of him the words apply: 21LtMs, Lt 393, 1906, par. 3
“Here is the patience of the saints: here are they that keep the commandments of God, and the faith of Jesus. And I heard a voice from heaven saying unto me, Write, Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord from henceforth: Yea, saith the Spirit, that they may rest from their labors; and their works do follow them. 21LtMs, Lt 393, 1906, par. 4
“And I looked and behold a white cloud, and upon the cloud one sat like unto the Son of man, having on His head a golden crown, and in His hand a sharp sickle. And another angel came out of the temple, crying with a loud voice to Him that sat on the cloud, Thrust in Thy sickle, and reap: for the time is come for Thee to reap; for the harvest of the earth is ripe.” [Revelation 14:12-15.] 21LtMs, Lt 393, 1906, par. 5
These scenes will soon transpire, and then we shall better understand the words, “Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord.” [Verse 13.] 21LtMs, Lt 393, 1906, par. 6
You may now rejoice in the thought that Stephen is free from all pain. There need be no more worry or anxiety on his account. 21LtMs, Lt 393, 1906, par. 7
I am glad to know that our brethren in Australia do not forget you, that they have promised that you shall be cared for, whether you remain on the island, or whether you go to friends elsewhere. May the Lord bless and strengthen you and help you to recover from the long strain that has been upon you. Please continue to write to me by every mail that leaves Norfolk Island. 21LtMs, Lt 393, 1906, par. 8
With love. 21LtMs, Lt 393, 1906, par. 9