Lt 5a, 1865

White, J. E.

NP

September 18, 1865

Previously unpublished.

Dear Edson:

I have time to write but a few lines. I shall lay down no rules for you to follow. You know what course to pursue in order to please us, your parents, and to meet the approbation of God. Be faithful I entreat of you. Do not cause Adelia anxiety on your account. She dreads the responsibility of your case. Take it off from her upon yourself, feel that a responsibility rests upon you, that you are accountable to God for your acts, your doings. Have the fear of God continually before you, then you will not go astray.1LtMs, Lt 5a, 1865, par. 1

Give up your schemes, your projects and enterprises. Face duty, stern duty and faithfully perform that which rests upon you. Friday commence in the morning to prepare for the Sabbath and one hour before sundown, have everything done and you be prepared for reading.1LtMs, Lt 5a, 1865, par. 2

Edson, I believe you [want] to do right. Go to God. He is your strength. He will sustain you every hour.1LtMs, Lt 5a, 1865, par. 3

Oh, Edson, rest not until you have obtained an experience in the things of God. Help Adelia all you can. It injures her to lift and to put pails of water in the reservoir and filter. Take these things upon yourself. On no account do you go out evenings down street. I do not write this to Adelia, but to you. Spend your evenings at home.1LtMs, Lt 5a, 1865, par. 4

I will write you from Dansville. Be tender of your brother Willie’s feelings, encourage fine feelings.1LtMs, Lt 5a, 1865, par. 5

From your mother.1LtMs, Lt 5a, 1865, par. 6