A Personal Tribute

In regard to Mrs. White and the nature of her work, the following is given, having been penned in 1877 by one who had known her and who had studied her work for many years; and after about fifty-three years’ test, years of careful observation, I give my unqualified indorsement to every sentiment therein expressed:—GSAM 469.1

“As to the Christian character of Sister White, I beg leave to say that I think I know something about it. I have been acquainted with her for eighteen years,—more than half the history of our people. I have been in their family time and again, sometimes weeks at a time. They have been in our house and family many times. I have traveled with them almost everywhere; have been with them in private and in public, in meeting and out of meeting, and have the very best chances to know something of the life, character, and spirit of Brother and Sister White. As a minister I have had to deal with all kinds of persons, and all kinds of character, till I think I can judge something of what a person is, at least after years of intimate acquaintance.GSAM 469.2

“I know Sister White to be an unassuming, modest, kindhearted, noble woman. These traits in her character are not simply put on and cultivated, but they spring gracefully and easily from her natural disposition. She is not self-conceited, self-righteous, and self-important, as fanatics always are. I have always found them to be full of pretensions, full of pride, ready to give their opinion, boastful of their holiness, etc., but I have ever found Sister White the reverse of all this.GSAM 470.1