Ellen G. White® Estate: HOW THE DESIRE OF AGES WAS WRITTEN (2025)

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by Robert W. Olson

An Introductory Statement to the Document,
"ExhibitsRelating to the Writing of The Desire ofAges"

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Table of Contents

Ellen White's Books onthe Life and Teachings of Jesus
Editorial Assistance
The Role of Marian Davis
Sources of Information
The Desire of Ages an InspiredBook
EXHIBITS RELATING TOTHE WRITING OF THE DESIRE OF AGES

The Desire of Ages is, for many Seventh-day Adventists, theirfavorite source of spiritual nourishment outside the Bible. Its deep devotionaltone and strikingly beautiful phrases, combined with its Christ-centered theme,make this much-loved masterpiece unique, even among the works of Ellen White.

The story of how The Desire of Ages was written probably will neverbe fully told, for no one living knows the complete story, with all itsdetails. However, an examination of the available sources does provide manyilluminating insights into the question of how this perennial best seller cameinto existence.

Ellen White's Books onthe Life and Teachings of Jesus

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Ellen White's writing on the life of Christ began in 1858, following hervisit to Lovett's Grove, Ohio, where many scenes from the age-long conflictbetween Christ and Satan were revealed to her in vision. Her written account ofthat vision, as found in Spiritual Gifts, Vol. I, includes over fiftypages on the life of Christ.

In 1876 and 1877, Ellen White rewrote and enlarged her narrative of Christ'slife and work so that it comprised more than 640 pages in Spirit ofProphecy, Volumes II and III. Then, in the 1890's, she expanded the accountstill further, until it filled three books, Thoughts From the Mount ofBlessing, TheDesire of Ages, and Christ's ObjectLessons.

Editorial Assistance

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Even though she was inspired in the fullest sense, Ellen White did notalways use perfect grammar, spelling, punctuation, or sentence and paragraphconstruction in her writing. She felt this shortcoming strongly throughout herentire life. In 1873, she lamented, "My heart is inexpressibly sad. . . . I amnot a scholar. . . . I am not a grammarian" (Entries for January 10

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and 11, 1873, pp. 10-11). (1) Twenty years later she again mourned over her inadequacywhen she declared, "I lay down my pen and say, Oh Lord, I am finite, I am weakand simple and ignorant. Thy grand and holy revelations I can never findlanguage to express" (See Exhibit63).

Feeling as she did, it is quite understandable that Ellen White should seekskilled literary help in the preparation of her manuscripts for publication.When working on the Spiritual Gifts series, from 1858 to 1864, she wasassisted by her husband who was a qualified schoolteacher. (See SelectedMessages, Book I, p. 50). In the 1890's, when The Desire of Ages wasfinally taking shape, her major editorial assistant was Marian Davis.

Ellen White's copyists were entrusted with such tasks as correcting grammarand spelling, eliminating unnecessary repetition, grouping material inparagraphs, and transferring sentences or paragraphs from one manuscript toanother "where the same thought was expressed, but not so clearly" (See Exhibit 81). Attimes, however, a few other key individuals were given additional leeway tomake improvements in her writings. For example, Mrs. White was quite willing tohave J. H. Waggoner criticize her manuscript and offer suggestions forimprovement (See Exhibit 15).She, in fact, expressed displeasure with Waggoner when he failed to change orimprove one of her manuscripts when given an opportunity todo so (See Exhibit 15).

Dr. David Paulson was also called upon for this kind of service. In 1905,Mrs. White's son, W. C. White, sent the manuscript for The Ministry ofHealing to Dr. Paulson with the request, "I wish that in all your readingyou would note those places where the thought is expressed in a way to beespecially criticized by medical men and kindly give us the benefit of yourknowledge as to how to express the same thought in a more acceptable way."(2)

It was Ellen White's understanding that some Bible writers also had needededitorial assistance, for she wrote concerning the book of Acts, "At that timeit was customary for a writer to send his manuscript to someone for examinationand criticism. Luke chose Theophilus, as a man in whom he had confidence, toperform this important work." (SDA Commentary, Volume 6, p. 1051).

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Since it is clear that Mrs. White did at times permit, and even seek, helpwhich resulted in the changing of some of her words, a question might be raisedabout her statement, "The words of someone else would not rightlyrepresent me" (See Exhibit 79).This comment, it should be noted, was made with reference to one of hercopyists in particular and did not include the technical improvements which allof her copyists were supposed to make. It should be emphasized though thatEllen White's copyists and editors did not contribute to the actual writing ofher books. Marian Davis made note of this fact when, in response to thepublisher's appeal for immediate completion of The Desire of Agesmanuscript, she wrote W. C. White, "There is one thing. . . that not even themost competent editor could do--that is to prepare the manuscript before it iswritten" [i.e., Marian Davis could not do her editorial work until Ellen Whitehad written the manuscript] (SeeExhibit 69).

The Role of MarianDavis

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Marian Davis was one of those special people to whom Ellen White looked formore than routine copying and editing. Marian was authorized to drop outneedless words (See Exhibit67) or at times to change words when necessary(See Exhibit 37). She helped Mrs. White plan a good number ofher books, from the first chapter to the last (p. 39, par. 1).

Marian was Ellen White's "bookmaker" (p. 41, par. 1). She gleaned material,even isolated sentences (p. 28, par. 6; p. 39, par. 1; p. 30, par. 4), on thelife of Christ from Ellen White's diaries, letters, and articles (p. 44, par.3; p. 29, par. 0), which she pasted in scrapbooks. She drew material forThe Desire of Agesfrom these scrapbooks, the bound E. G. White books, and some longer manuscripts(p. 24, par. 4).

In organizing the material into chapters, Marian noted areas on which shehad nothing from Ellen White's pen. Apparently the two women had such a closeworking relationship that Marian felt free to make suggestions to Mrs. White asto what she thought might be lacking from the book. Some of these suggestionsEllen White accepted, but others she rejected. For example, while Marian'sadvice regarding "the rock, when the water flowed," was accepted for an earlierbook (p. 21, par. 1), her recommendation concerning "the building a tower" and"the war of kings" was rejected. Ellen White declared she would not write onthese topics unless "the Lord's Spirit seems to lead

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me" (p. 25, par. 3). (3)

Marian also made suggestions to Ellen White with reference to Christ'sstruggle when tempted to use His divine power (p. 26, par. 5), and the parablesof the pearl and the net (p. 23, par. 6). While Ellen White no doubtappreciated these suggestions, it was clearly she herself, and not Marian, whodecided what topics she would write on.

Not only did Ellen White do the initial writing, she also took fullresponsibility for every word which eventually appeared in her books. Sheexplained to her sister Mary, "I read over all that is copied, to see thateverything is as it should be. I read all the book manuscript before it is sentto the printer" (p. 44, par. 2). This clearly was her routine method ofworking. Marian Davis once remarked to Ellen White, "Of course, nothing will gothat you do not approve" (p. 30, par. 2).

Sources ofInformation

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(a) Visions. In her first account of Christ's life, written in 1858,Ellen White frequently made such declarations as "I saw," "I then viewed," "Iwas shown," etc. (p. 10). While she did not lace her later accounts of Christ'slife with these expressions, she may actually have seen in vision all theevents in Christ's life of which she wrote. In 1889, after mentioning the"betrayal, trial, and crucifixion of Jesus," she commented, "All this hadpassed before me point by point" (p. 22, par. 3).

However, it is not necessary for us to believe that every single factmentioned in The Desireof Ages was first seen in vision in order also to believe that the bookcame from a truly inspired pen. For example, Paul wrote the Corinthians, "Thereis among you envying, and strife, and divisions" (1 Corinthians 3:3). But hewas not shown this in vision. He was informed

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in this matter by the members of the house of Chloe. (See 1 Corinthians1:11). Yet we hold that 1 Corinthians 3:3 was written under inspiration. EllenWhite states that although "the Lord did not give him [Paul] a new revelationfor that special time. . . the reproof he sent them was as certainly writtenunder the inspiration of the Spirit of God as were any of his other epistles"(Acts of theApostles, pp. 302-3). If God could speak to the prophets of old "indiverse manners" (Hebrews 1:1), He could most surely do the same in more recenttimes.

(b) The Bible. Ellen White knew her Bible well, a fact that isattested by the thousands of quotations from the Word of God which run throughall of her writings. She used the Bible freely in all of her books on Christ'slife and teachings. The Scriptures were to Ellen White the primary source ofinformation regarding what Jesus did and said.

(c) "Bible Histories" and other books. Since the Lord apparently didnot reveal the order of biblical events to Ellen White, she found it necessaryto seek this information as best she could by her own personal study fromvarious "Bible histories" (p. 21, par. 2). She also appears to have used somebooks which dealt more specifically with the life of Jesus. She instructed herfamily in Oakland to send her certain books which she had "laid out." (p. 17,par. 5). She does not name these books, but it is likely that one of them wasWilliam Hanna's Life of Christ, since some of her phraseology inSpirit of Prophecy, Volume II, written at this time, is similar to thelanguage of Hanna. The extent and nature of her use of Hanna can be determinedonly by a careful analysis of these books.(4) Ellen White used both the Bible and historicalsources in the preparation of her other "conflict books" as well. W. C. Whitestates,

In some of the historical matters such as are brought out in Patriarchs andProphets, and in Acts of the Apostlesand in The GreatControversy, the main outlines were made very clear and plain to her, andwhen she came to write up these topics, she was left to study the Bible andhistory to get dates and geographical relations and to perfect her descriptionof details.--W. C.

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White Correspondence File.(5)

It may come as a new thought to some that Ellen White, in writing aninspired book, should at times draw not only phraseology but certain types ofinformation from previously existing sources. But those who have studied theBible carefully will not find this thought disturbing inasmuch as they willhave noted that the Scripture writers also followed this practice. For example,the Apostle Paul more than once used lines from Greek poets, and Jude includeda passage in his little epistle which someone else had written at least ahundred years earlier.(See SDA Bible Commentary on Acts 17:28, 1Corinthians 15:33, and Jude 14).

The Desireof Ages an Inspired Book

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In 1892, as Ellen White once again commenced her writing on the life ofChrist, she spoke of "the things which burn in my soul in reference to themission of Christ." "I know not," she wrote, "how to present subjects in theliving power in which they stand before me" (p. 23, par. 4,5).

A year later she asserted that in writing on Christ's life she was tracingwords which would communicate to others "the light which the Lord has beenpleased in His great mercy and love to give me" (p. 25, par. 2). Some timelater, after mentioning several of her books, including The Desire ofAges, she declared, "In my books, the truth is stated, barricaded by a'Thus saith the Lord.' The Holy Spirit traced these truths upon my heart andmind as indelibly as the law was traced by the finger of God, upon the tablesof stone" (p. 44, par. 7).

In the writing of The Desire of Ages Ellen White had help--help fromher secretaries and help from some other authors. But first and foremost shehad the help of the Lord. It was the Spirit of God who directed and controlledher and who was the Guiding Force in the writing of all her messages.

The Desire of Agesis not just another book on the life of Christ. In marked contrast to otherworks on Christ's life, it was written under the inspiration of the Spirit ofGod. It carries within its pages its own divine

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credentials. It breathes a heavenly spirit. Here we come face to face withthe Lord Himself. Through The Desire of Ages, as through no other bookoutside the Bible, we may become intimately acquainted with our Saviour. Andthis blessing will surely come to all who search its pages with hearts andminds that are receptive to the leading of the Holy Spirit.

(1) Unless otherwiseindicated, all references in this statement are to the attached document,"Exhibits Relating to the Writing of The Desire of Ages.

(2) W. C. White to DavidPaulson, February 15, 1905, W. C. White Letter File.

(3) W. C. White recognizedthat in his mother's experience, the Lord at times overruled even the besthuman advice. He wrote her once, "I see many reasons why you should not go tothe Colorado and California campmeetings. In my opinion, it would be the mostunfortunate thing in the world, for you to go and take a large burden of theirperplexities. It would do you ten times as much harm, as it would do them good.I am of one mind regarding all the meetings. Do not think of going to any ofthem, unless the Lord plainly tells you to go, and when He does this, Iwithdraw all objections. W. C. White to Ellen White, August 18, 1890, W. C.White Letter Book C, p. 58.

(4) For the benefit of thosewho may wish to make comparisons between Hanna's work and that of Ellen White,the White Estate has reproduced several hundred copies of five chapters drawnfrom Hanna's Life of Christ. These are available on a complimentarybasis while the supply lasts.

(5) For the mostinformative and concise statement from her own pen as to her use of thehistorical material of other authors see her Introduction toThe GreatControversy.

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EXHIBITSRELATING TO THE WRITING

OF THE DESIRE OF AGES

Arranged Chronologically
(Based On An On-Going Study OfThe Sources)

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Exhibit 1: Sabbath and Sunday, March 13-14, 1858, The Whitesat Lovett's Grove, Ohio

THE REVIEW AND HERALD
"Sanctify them through thy truth;thy word is truth."
BATTLE CREEK FIFTH-DAY, MAR. 25, 1858

March 13th and 14th we enjoyed freedom with the young church atLovett's Grove. Bro. Holt's labors have been greatly blessed in this place. Hethinks about forty are keeping the Sabbath in this place. A few weeks sincethere were none. We enjoyed great freedom with these brethren. On First-day Godmanifested his power in a wonderful manner before the crowded assembly. Severaldecided to keep the Lord's Sabbath and go with the people of God. We feel muchindebted to Bro. and Sr. Tillotson who were with us two weeks and conveyed uscomfortably with their carriage all the way from where we left the rail road atGreen Spring, till we found it again at Freemont where we took the cars forhome.

James White, p. 149.

Exhibit 2: Sunday, March 14, 1858, The Great Controversy Vision Given at aFuneral Service

In this vision at Lovett's Grove, most of the matter of the GreatControversy which I had seen ten years before, was repeated, and I was shownthat I must write it out. That I should have to contend with the powers ofdarkness, for Satan would make strong efforts to hinder me, but angels of GODwould not leave me in the conflict, that in GOD must I put my trust.
AfterI came out of vision, the afflicted friends, and a portion of the congregation,bore the body to its resting-place. Great solemnity rested upon those whoremained.
Monday we commenced our journey homeward with Bro. and Sr.Tillotson. The next day we took the cars at Freemont for Jackson, Mich. Whileriding in the cars we arranged our plans for writing and publishing the bookcalled the Great Controversy, immediately on our return home.

Spiritual Gifts, Vol. II, pp. 270-271 (published 1860).

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Exhibit 3: 1858, Spiritual Gifts, Vol. I, Published.

SPIRITUAL GIFTS.

THE GREAT CONTROVERSY,
BETWEEN CHRIST AND HIS ANGELS,AND SATAN AND HIS ANGELS.

BY ELLEN G. WHITE.

BATTLE CREEK, MICH.
PUBLISHED BY JAMES WHITE. 1858

CONTENTS.

SPIRITUAL GIFTS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
CHAPTER
I. The Fall of Satan, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17II.
II. The Fall of Man, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
III. The Planof Salvation, . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
IV. The First Advent of Christ . .. . . . . . 28
V. The Ministry of Christ, . . . . . . . . . . . . 35
VI. The Transfiguration, . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40
VII. The Betrayalof Christ, . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
VIII. The Trial of Christ, . . . . .. . . . . . . . . 49
IX. The Crucifixion of Christ, . . . . . . . . . 57
X. The Resurrection of Christ . . . . . . . . 65
XI. The Ascension ofChrist, . . . . . . . . . 77
XII. The Disciples of Christ, . . . . . . . .. . . 80
XIII. The Death of Stephen, . . . . . . . . . . . . 87
XIV.The Conversion of Saul, . . . . . . . . . . . 90
XV. The Jews Decided toKill Paul, . . . . . 93
XVI. Paul Visited Jerusalem, . . . . . . . . . . 99
XVII. The Great Apostasy, . . . . . . . . . . . . . 103
XVIII. Mysteryof Iniquity, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 108
XIX. Death, not Eternal Lifein Misery, . . 113
XX. The Reformation, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 119
XXI. The Church and World United, . . . 124
XXII. Wm. Miller, . . . . .. . . . . . . . . . . . . 128
XXIII. The First Angel's Message, . . . . . .133
XXIV. The Second Angel's Message, . . . . 140
XXV. Advent MovementIllustrated, . . . . 144
XXVI. Another Illustration, . . . . . . . . . . .151
XXVII. The Sanctuary, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 157
XXVIII. TheThird Angel's Message, . . . . . 162
XXIX. A Firm Platform, . . . . . . . .. . . . . . 168
XXX. Spiritualism, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 173
XXXI. Covetousness, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 179
XXXII. TheShaking, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 183
XXXIII. The Sins of Babylon, .. . . . . . . . . 189
XXXIV. The Loud Cry, . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .193
XXXV. The Third Message Closed, . . . . . 197
XXXVI. The Time ofJacob's Trouble, . . . 201
XXXVII. Deliverance of the Saints, . . . . . .205
XXXVIII. The Saints' Reward, . . . . . . . . . . 209
XXXIX. TheEarth Desolated, . . . . . . . . 211
XL. The Second Resurrection, . . . . .214
XLI. The Second Death, . . . . . . . . . . . 217

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Exhibit 4: Source of Information in Spiritual Gifts, Vol. I,1858.

The Lord has shown me that Satan was once an honored angel inheaven, next to JESUS CHRIST. --p. 17

I saw that the Son of God was pale and emaciated through fastingand suffering. But his course was marked out, and he must fulfill the work hecame to do. (p. 31)

I then viewed Jesus in the garden with his disciples. (p. 46)

I saw that the feeblest angel could have caused that multitude tofall powerless, and delivered Jesus. (p. 51)

But they need not have feared; for I beheld the angelic hostwatching with untold interest the resting place of Jesus. (p. 64)

I saw the Roman guard, as the angelic host passed back to heaven,and the light and glory passed away, raise themselves to see if it were safefor them to look around. (p. 68)

Next I was shown the disciples as they sorrowfully gazed towardsheaven to catch the last glimpse of their ascending Lord. (p. 79)

[Spiritual Gifts, Vols. III and IV, both published in 1864,completed the first writing of the great controversy story. These two volumesdealt largely with Old Testament history. Spiritual Gifts, Vol. II, wasan autobiography of Ellen White and was not a part of the great controversyseries. As the years passed Ellen White determined to rewrite and enlarge thesebooks. First in the new series, published in 1870, was Spirit ofProphecy, Vol. I, which covered Old Testament history up to the time ofSolomon. Next Ellen White concentrated on the life of Christ, which eventuallyfilled most of Spirit of Prophecy, Vols. II and III.]

Exhibit 5: Wednesday, January 1, 1873, Santa Rosa, California, EllenWhite Diary Entry

Wrote ten pages to Elder Littlejohn, after writing closely all dayupon my matter for Spirit of Prophecy.

(Manuscript 3, 1873, p. 1.)

Exhibit 6: Sunday, January 5, 1873, Petaluma, California, Ellen WhiteDiary Entry

We had three meetings. I spoke at eleven o'clock upon the life andtemptation of Christ in the wilderness. I felt the force of the subject Ipresented before them.

Manuscript 3, 1873, p. 2.

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Exhibit 7: Friday, January 10, 1873, Santa Rosa, California, Ellen WhiteDiary Entry

We rose early to prepare to go to San Francisco. My heart isinexpressibly sad. This morning I take into candid consideration my writings.My husband is too feeble to help me prepare them for the printer, therefore Ishall do no more with them at present. I am not

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a scholar. I cannot prepare my own writings for the press. Until Ican do this I shall write no more. It is not my duty to tax others with mymanuscript.

Manuscript 3, 1873, p. 5.

Exhibit 8: Sabbath, January 11, 1873, San Francisco, California, EllenWhite Diary Entry

We rested well last night. This Sabbath morning opens cloudy. Mymind is coming to strange conclusions. I am thinking I must lay aside mywriting I have taken so much pleasure in, and see if I cannot become a scholar.I am not a grammarian. I will try, if the Lord will help me, at forty-fiveyears old to become a scholar in the science. God will help me. I believe Hewill.

Manuscript 3, 1873, p. 5.

Exhibit 9: Sabbath, March 25, 1876, Oakland, California, Ellen White toJames White

Dear Husband: . . . Mary Clough* and I will do all we can toforward the work of my writings. I cannot see any light shining to Michigan forme. This year I feel that my work is writing. I must be secluded, stay righthere, and I must not let inclination or persuasion of others shake myresolution to keep closely to my work until it is done. God will help me if Itrust in Him.

*Mary Clough (rhymes with "how") was the daughter of Ellen White's sisterCaroline.

Letter 63, 1876.

Exhibit 10: Friday, March 31, 1876, Oakland, California, Ellen White toJames White

Dear Husband: . . . I enjoy the presence of God and yet my soul iscontinually drawn out for more of His salvation. I am writing and havingfreedom in my writing. Precious subjects I am handling. The last I completed orabout completed yesterday--Jesus healing the impotent man at the pool ofBethesda. It is a great subject, the discourse of Christ, following the healingas He was accused of the Jews of Sabbath breaking.

Letter 1, 1876, p. 2.

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Exhibit 11: Tuesday, April 4, 1876, Oakland, California, Ellen White toJames White

Dear Husband: . . . We have been having company about every day forsome days back, but I try to stick to my writings and do as much each day as Idare. I cannot write but one half of a day each day.

Letter 3, 1876, p. 1.

Exhibit 12: Thursday, April 6, 1876, Oakland, California, Ellen White toJames White

(Continuation of letter started on April 4.) I have had much freedom inprayer and sweet communion with God in my waking hours at night and early inthe morning. I am gaining some strength, but find that any taxation affects meseriously so that it takes time to recover from it. My trust is in God. I haveconfidence that He will help me in my efforts to get out the truth and light Hehas given me

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to [give to] His people. Mary is a good help. I appreciate her.

Letter 3, 1876, p. 2.

Exhibit 13: Friday, April 7, 1876, Oakland, California, Ellen White toJames White

Dear Husband: . . . I am writing some every day but cannot confinemyself to writing more than one-half a day.

Yesterday Mary Clough, the little girls* and I visited SisterBabcock. We had quite a walk. . . .

The precious subjects open to my mind well. I trust in God and Hehelps me to write. I am some twenty-four pages ahead of Mary. She does wellwith my copy. It will take a clear sense of duty to call me from this work tocamp meetings. I mean to finish my writings, on one book at any rate, before Igo anywhere.

* The "little girls" were Addie and May Walling, Mary Clough's neices, whowere raised by Ellen White.

Letter 4, 1876, pp. 1,4.

Exhibit 14: Sabbath, April 8, 1876, Oakland, California, Ellen White toJames White

Dear Husband: . . . In regard to publishing my book here, what doyou think of it? The manuscript could at once be put in the hands of theprinters. Will you please inform us in reference to this.

I have liberty in writing and I plead with God daily for counseland that I may be imbued with His Spirit. I then believe that I shall have helpand strength and grace to do the will of God.

I am glad you are so free and happy. I never had such anopportunity to write in my life and I mean to make the most of it. . . .

How will it do to read my manuscript to Elders Waggoner andLoughborough? If there is any wording of doctrinal points not so clear as mightbe, he might discern it. (W. I mean.)

Letter 4a, 1876, pp. 1,2.

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Exhibit 15: Saturdaynight, April 8, 1876, Oakland, California, Ellen White to Lucinda Hall

Dear Sister Lucinda:** . . . My husband writes that an appeal is tobe sent to me from the [General] Conference [Session], but I shall not be movedfrom that which I believe to be my duty at this time. I have a special work atthis time to write out the things which the Lord has shown me. We progressfinely, but I cannot write more than half a day. . . .

I have felt that I must neglect everything to get out thesewritings. I have not attended meetings for two weeks. While Elders Waggonerand

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Loughborough are here, I let them do the work, and I keepall my strength for one purpose--to write. . . .

I want time to have my mind calm and composed. I want to have timeto meditate and pray while engaged in this work. I do not want to be weariedmyself or be closely connected with our people who will divert my mind. This isa great work, and I feel like crying to God every day for His Spirit to help meto do this work all right. . . .

Matter at Petaluma was needed for labor there next week. I put copyin Elder Waggoner's hand to copy. He just did a miserable job. He did notchange anything or improve it at all. I prize Mary more and more everyday.

** Lucinda Hall (1839-1929) was for a time employed by Ellen White and cameto be one of her best friends.

Letter 59, 1876, pp. 1-3.

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Exhibit 16: Sunday, April 16, 1876, "On the Cars from Oakland toBrooklyn", Ellen White to J. White

Dear Husband: . . . I have written quite a number of pages today.Mary is hard after me. She gets so enthusiastic over some subjects. She bringsin the manuscript after she has copied to read it to me. She showed me todayquite a heavy pile of manuscripts she had prepared. Quite proudly she viewedit. . . .

Willie, his Mary and Mary Clough accompany me to the city tonight.I think that we had better not get any furniture for [the] new house till youare here to select it. . . .

I do not wish my mind diverted from my work to even go and selectfurniture, but I only suggest. . . .

Oh, how I do long for that social and mysterious connection withJesus that elevates us above the temporal things of life. It is my anxiety tobe right with God, to have His Spirit continually witnessing with me that I amindeed a child of God.

I shall strive to bring out these matters, so precious, to theacceptance of God.

Well, I cannot write you very much news, when I shut myself in mychamber day after day writing, and then when I write you every day, but youmust be content with what you can get. We now take the boat.

Letter 8, 1876, pp. 1,2.

Exhibit 17: Tuesday, April 18, 1876, Oakland, California, Ellen White toJames White

Dear Husband: . . . We went to the city Sunday night. I spoke toquite a large congregation of outsiders with acceptance. Taking up the subjectof the loaves and fishes with which Jesus by His miraculous power fed about tenthousand people--five thousand men and women and five thousand children--thatwere continually collecting, after the

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Saviour had blessed the small portion of food; Christ walking onthe sea and the Jews requiring a sign that He was the Son of God. The neighbornext to the church near the public garden was there. Cragg, I believe his nameis. They all listened with wide open eyes, and some [with] open mouths. Marysays she feels provoked that she has written out that subject before she heardme speak upon it. She will now insert some living points she heard that night.She seemed deeply interested. . . .

I see many subjects to write out which must be done with thegreatest care. I want this summer, the whole of it, to do this work in. I muststop a day or two in the week and go somewhere or my head will break down. Ibegrudge every moment that I feel compelled to rest. These intenselyinteresting subjects weary me far more to write them out than to speak uponthem.

I feel that it would not be advisable for me to break off now andgo East. Mary does not feel inclined to go. Says she just despises the Easternclimate, but this would not prevent me if I could feel that it was my duty togo. I would feel pleased to meet my brethren and sisters in camp meeting. It isjust such work as I enjoy. Much better than the confinement of writing. Butthis will break up my work and defeat the plans of getting out my books, for Icannot do both--travel and write. Now seems to be my golden opportunity. Maryis with me, the best copyist I can ever have. Another such chance may never bemine.

Letter 9, 1876, pp. 1,3.

Exhibit 18: Friday, April 21, 1876, Oakland, California, Ellen White toJames White

Dear Husband: . . . I have just completed quite a lengthy article on severalmiracles; makes some fifty pages. We have prepared about 150 pages since youleft. We feel the best of satisfaction in what we have prepared.

Letter 12, 1876, p. 1.

Exhibit 19: Monday, April 24, 1876, Oakland, California, Ellen White toJames White

Dear Husband: Mary has just been reading to me two articles--one [was] onthe loaves and fishes, Christ walking on the water, and stating to His hearersHe was the Bread of life, which caused some of His disciples to turn from Him.This takes fifty pages and comprises many subjects. I do think it the mostprecious matter I have ever written. Mary is just as enthusiastic over it. Shethinks it is of the highest value. I am perfectly satisfied with it.

The other article was upon Christ going through the corn field, plucking theears of corn, and healing the withered hand--twelve pages. If I can, withMary's help, get out these subjects of such intense interest, I could say,"Lord, now lettest Thou Thy servant depart in peace." These writings are all Ican see now. Mary's interest does not decrease at all. She is just as ardentand anxious as I am that this

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work shall be done now before we leave California. Interesting subjects arecontinually opening to my mind. These subjects I speak upon, which fastens themin Mary's mind.

I believe that the Lord is with us, and His Spirit will impress our hearts.Mary is only just after me. I have not subjects prepared ahead. My heart andmind are in this work, and the Lord will sustain me in doing this work. Ibelieve the Lord will give me health. I have asked Him, and He will answer myprayer. I love the Lord. I love His cause. I love His people. I feel greatpeace and calmness of mind. There seems to be nothing to confuse and distractmy mind, and with so much hard thinking, my mind could not be perplexed withanything without being overtaxed.

Letter 13, 1876, p. 1.

Exhibit 20: Tuesday, April 25, 1876, Oakland, California, Ellen White toJames White

Dear Husband: Last night I received a long letter from Elder Canright urgingmy attending the camp meetings; also a letter from Brother Rogers of Missouri;also one from Brother Colcord. . . .

They urge me strongly, but I dare not move on their light or obey theircall. My work is here at present. I see no light anywhere else and I desirevery earnestly to follow the light. If I thought it were my duty to go to thesemeetings, I would go if my book was never completed, but I feel that now is mytime. God has provided me just the help I have longed for so much and prayedfor so earnestly. Already Mary has been here five months and the time has gonewithout accomplishing very much on my work. We are now making excellent timeand preparing matter as fast as possible. My mind is on this work and I do notwant it withdrawn.

Should I follow my own pleasure or inclination, I should certainly attendthe camp meetings. I love the labor connected with the camp meetings muchbetter than I love writing. I enjoy traveling, but I feel that now is my timeand opportunity to get out this long-neglected work. . . .

All is quiet here. Nothing to draw me from my work. My mind is not perplexedwith harrassing matters of the church or of any kind of difficulties. I an, asfree from every outside care as I can possibly be anywhere. . . .

I cannot have much news to write for I go nowhere and see no one. Except[for] the boat ride, I have been very much at home. Only called on two or threeof the sisters after writing all day.

I cannot merely portion my writing to one-half the day, as some of the timemy head troubles me, and then I have to rest, lie down, stop thinking, and takemy time for writing when I can do so comfortably. I cannot rush business. Thiswork must be done carefully, slowly, and accurately. The subjects we haveprepared are well gotten up. They please me.

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I am getting over my nervousness, and I sleep quite well every night exceptafter speaking. I then feel so intensely myself [that] rest and sleep are outof the question. My subjects are to me of living reality, and I make the peoplefeel them.

Letter 14, 1876, pp. 1-3.

Exhibit 21: Thursday, April 27, 1876, Oakland, California, Ellen Whiteto James White

Dear Husband: . . . We have just completed twenty pages on the parable ofthe Sower. This was rather a trying subject to write upon, but Mary and I haveread it over this afternoon, and we pronounce it excellent, excellent. She saysthe subjects grow better and better, every one. She is just happy over thiswork.

Letter 15, 1876, p. 2.

Exhibit 22: Thursday, April 27, 1876, Oakland, California, Ellen Whiteto Lucinda Hall

Dear Lucinda: . . . I am working to the very extent of my strength, and myprayer is for the Lord to help, strengthen, and bless me in this work. He doesdo this, or I could not do what I have done. My spirit yearns after God, and Idare not trust myself at all. I am glad my husband is so free. May God continueto bless him is our most earnest daily prayer.

We are, Mary and I, doing our uttermost to get my writings completed in thespace of six weeks. If we do, is it thought it will pay for us then to comeEast? If not, we greatly prefer to remain and write the next volume. . . . Iknow the people need this book at once, and I want my mind relieved and thisburden off my mind.

Letter 61, 1876, p. 1.

Exhibit 23: Friday, April 28, 1876, Oakland, California, Ellen White toJames White

Dear Husband: I have written fifteen pages today. Mary Clough is hard afterme. She has copied fifteen pages today--a good, large day's work. As soon asdinner is eaten, I go to Mary's room and she reads me what she has writtenwhile I lie on the sofa and rest. Then again at night I go to her room and shereads the rest. She delights in it all as much as myself. Mary is trying herutmost to get these books out. We have so quiet a time. Never have I had suchan opportunity in my life before. I will improve it. We have written about 200pages since you left, all copied, ready for printers. . . .

I feel that I am less than nothing, but Jesus is my all--my righteousness,and my wisdom, and my strength.

Letter 16a, 1876, pp. 1,2.

Exhibit 24: April, 1876, Oakland, California, Ellen White to JamesWhite

Dear Husband: . . . Last night I again spoke to the people. This was mytext--the words of Christ to the twelve, "Will ye also go away?" Peter

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answered, "Lord, to whom shall we go? Thou hast the words of eternal life"(See John 6:67, 68). I had perfect freedom. I never felt more sensibly theespecial help from God than while speaking. The people sat as if spellbound,wide awake, although the meeting did not close till after nine o'clock. TheSpirit of God was upon me.

Letter 18, 1876, pp. 1,2.

Exhibit 25: Friday, May 5, 1876, Oakland, California, Ellen White toJames White

Dear Husband: . . . I have been writing more than usual, which was too muchfor me. I cannot and must not write more than half a day, but I continue tostep over the bounds and pay for it. My mind is on my subjects day and night. Ihave strong confidence in prayer. The Lord hears me and I believe in Hissalvation. In His strength I trust. In His strength I shall complete mywritings. I cling firmly to His hand with unwavering confidence. We are happyin our work and this is our world for the present. . . .

I never expect so good an opportunity again of writing. May God help me ismy continual cry.

If I am blessed with health as I have been hitherto, I shall complete myfirst book in about four weeks.

Letter 21, 1876, pp. 1-2.

Exhibit 26: Thursday, May 11, 1876, Oakland, California, Ellen White toJames White

Dear Husband: . . . If I get my writings [Spirit of Prophecy, Vol.II] all in manuscript, my part of the work is done and I shall be relieved.

Letter 24, 1876, p. 2.

Exhibit 27: Cir. Monday, May 22, 1876, On The Train Between Oakland andSacramento, En Route to the Kansas Camp Meeting, Ellen White to MaryKelsey-White or Mary Clough

Dear Mary : We are all cheerful and comfortably located in the cars. We likeour situation very much. I owe Frank one dollar. Please pay him, and charge tome. Ask Sister Rice to cut out a pattern of the basque she fitted for me. Senda copy to Kansas and have one nicely secured at Oakland. You need not sendWalks and Homes of Jesus* when you send thebooks I laid out.

Letter 27a, 1876.

*By Daniel March.

Exhibit 28: Thursday, October 19, 1876, Battle Creek, Michigan, EllenWhite to W.C. & Mary White

Dear Children Willie and Mary: . . . We have decided to have the printers goon my book and not transport these books across the plains again. Part of thebook is here already printed. We shall not have them stereo-typed, because weshall not wait to have matters of my book so very, very exact, but get out thisfirst edition and get it in market. Then

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we can take time to get out a more perfect edition on [the] Pacific Coastand have [it] stereotyped, then your father's and my life will be written andprinted in the Pacific Printing Office. But we have all used our best judgmentand think we had better remain here till December and complete this edition. .. .

Mary Clough feels that she cannot break off from this book again. She wantsto see it completed. We will therefore do our utmost to accomplish this objectand as soon as [it is] done, come right along.

Letter 45, 1876, pp. 1,2.

Exhibit 29: Thursday, October 26, 1876, Battle Creek, Michigan, EllenWhite to W.C. & Mary White

Dear Children: . . . We are in the very worst drive and hurry getting off myVolume Two, Spirit of Prophecy. Three new forms arealready printed. If we remain here four weeks longer we shall have the bookcompleted, and remove from my mind a great burden of care. . . .

I fear if we left immediately the book would be hindered for two months.Mary is driving to the uttermost. . . .

We were never so full of business before. Mary sits up until twelve and oneo'clock at night. She works tremendously.

Letter 46, 1876, pp. 1-2.

Exhibit 30: Thursday, November 30, 1876, Review and HeraldAnnouncement

The Review andHerald.

-----------------------------------------

Battle Creek, Mich., Fifth-Day, Nov. 30, 1876.

=================================

Spirit of Prophecy, Vol. II.

We are prepared to speak of this volume, nowjust issued, as the most remarkable volume that has ever issued from thisOffice. It covers that portion of the great controversy between Christ andSatan, which is included in the life and mission, teachings and miracles, ofChrist here upon the earth. Many have endeavored to write the life of Christ;but their work, as compared with this, seem to be only like the outer garmentsto the body. Here we have, so to speak, an interior view of the wonderful workof God during this time. And if the reader has a heart that can be impressed,feelings that can be stirred, an imagination that can respond to the most vividportraiture of the most thrilling scenes, and a spirit to drink in lessons ofpurity, faith, and love from Christ's divine example, he will find in thisvolume that which will call into liveliest play all these faculties. But thebest of all is the lasting impression it must make for good upon all who read.It should have an unlimited circulation. Post-paid, by mail, as per previousnotions, $1.00. U. S.

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Exhibit 31: Spirit of Prophecy, Vol. II, Table of Contents,1877

CONTENTS.......................................................................PAGE

CHAPTER I. The First Advent of Christ,...............................9
CHAPTER II. The Life of Christ,..................................................30
CHAPTER III. Life andMission of John, ......................................41
CHAPTER IV. TheMission of Christ, ..........................................58
CHAPTER V.The Death of John, ................................................74
CHAPTER VI. Temptation of Christ,............................................86
CHAPTER VII. The Marriage atCana, ........................................98
CHAPTER VIII. Cleansingthe Temple, ......................................115
CHAPTER IX. Nicodemuscomes to Christ, ...............................124
CHAPTER X. The Woman ofSamaria, .......................................140
CHAPTER XI. TheCenturion's Son, ...........................................151
CHAPTERXII. Jesus at Bethesda, ..............................................156
CHAPTER XIII. Jesus at Capernaum,..........................................173
CHAPTER XIV. Choosing theDisciples, ......................................182
CHAPTER XV. TheSabbath, ......................................................193
CHAPTERXVI. Sermon of the Mount, ........................................200
CHAPTER XVII. The Leper Healed,...........................................225
CHAPTER XVIII. Parable ofthe Sower, .....................................282
CHAPTER XIX. OtherParables, .................................................242
CHAPTER XX.The Loaves and Fishes, ......................................258
CHAPTERXXI. Walking on the Water, ......................................267
CHAPTER XXII. Christ in the Synagogue,...................................274
CHAPTER XXIII. The Paralytic,..................................................292
CHAPTER XXIV. Womanof Canaan, .........................................301
CHAPTER XXV. ChristStills the Tempest, ..................................305
CHAPTER XXVI. Menfrom the Tombs, ......................................311
CHAPTER XXVII.Jairus' Daughter, .............................................318
CHAPTERXXVIII. The Transfiguration, ......................................324
CHAPTER XXIX. Feast of Tabernacles,......................................337
CHAPTER XXX. Go and Sin no More,........................................349
CHAPTER XXXI. Resurrection ofLazarus, ..................................358
CHAPTER XXXII. Mary'sOffering, .............................................372
CHAPTER XXXIII.Riding into Jerusalem, ....................................382

Exhibit 32: Thursday, February 14, 1878, Review and HeraldAnnouncement

The Review and Herald.

------------------------------------------
Battle Creek,Mich., Fifth-Day, Feb. 14, 1878.
Spirit of Prophecy, Vol. 3.

THIS volume, by Mrs. E. G. White, is now ready. It dwells veryfully upon the sufferings and death of Christ, his resurrection and ascensionto Heaven, and closes with an account of the lives, teachings and persecutionsof the apostles. It is written in the same forcible and impressive style as thepreceding volumes, and is a book of equally thrilling interest. It will behailed with gladness everywhere by those best acquainted with sister W. and herwork. In style, size and price, it is the same as Vols. 1 and 2; pages 400;price $1.00.

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Exhibit 33: 1878, Spirit of Prophecy, Vol. III, Table of Contents

CONTENTS..............................................................PAGE.

CHAPTER I. Weeping over Jerusalem,....................................... 9
CHAPTER II. Cleansing the Temple,......................................20
CHAPTER III. Jesus and thePharisees, ......................................36
CHAPTER IV. Denouncingthe Pharisees, ......................................56
CHAPTER V. In theOuter Court, ......................................74
CHAPTER VI. ThePassover Supper, ......................................81
CHAPTER VII. Inthe Garden, ......................................94
CHAPTER VIII. In theJudgement Hall, ......................................107
CHAPTER IX.Condemnation of Jesus, ......................................127
CHAPTER X.Calvary, ......................................148
CHAPTER XI. At theSepulcher, ......................................173
CHAPTER XII. TheConflict Ended, ......................................183
CHAPTER XIII. TheResurrection, ......................................191
CHAPTER XIV. TheWomen at the Tomb, ......................................198
CHAPTER XV.Jesus at Emmaus, ......................................206
CHAPTER XVI. Inthe Upper Chamber, ......................................216
CHAPTER XVII.Jesus at Galilee, ......................................223
CHAPTER XVIII.Meeting of the Brethren, ......................................234
CHAPTERXIX. Ascension of Christ, ......................................249
CHAPTERXX. The Pentecost, ......................................263
CHAPTER XXI.The Cripple Healed, ......................................275
CHAPTER XXII.The Seven Deacons, ......................................291
CHAPTER XXIII.Conversion of Saul, ......................................305
CHAPTER XXIV.Paul Commences his Ministry, ......................................317
CHAPTER XXV. The Ministry of Peter,......................................323
CHAPTER XXVI. Deliverance ofPeter, ......................................334
CHAPTER XXVII. Ordinationof Paul and Barnabas, ......................................345
CHAPTERXXVIII. Preaching among the Heathen, ......................................358
CHAPTER XXIX. Jew and Gentile, ......................................368
CHAPTER XXX. Imprisonment of Paul and Silas,......................................378
CHAPTER XXXI. Opposition atThessalonica, ......................................387

Exhibit 34: Sunday, December, 1878, Denison, Texas, Ellen White to MaryWhite

Dear daughter [in-law] Mary: This week we shall commence to livein the new house. It is roomy and a very nice building. . . . Be sure and sendme that coarse material like Emma's dress. Please send that double paisleyshawl. I have a plan for it. Send my plaid shawl, and you may send twocomfortables. Send books, red-covered Jewish Antiquities and theBible Dictionary. Is Night Scenes of the Bible* there? If so,send it.

Letter 60, 1878, p. 1.

* By Daniel March, published in 1869.

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Exhibit 35: Tuesday, December 22, 1885, Basel, Switzerland, Switzerland;Ellen White to Edson & W.C. White

Dear Children, Edson and Willie: . . . Tell her [Marian Davis*] I just one minute ago read the letters in which she has specified the improvements to be made in articles for Volume 1. I thank her. Tell her that she has a point about Zedekiah's having his eyes put out. That needs to be more carefully worded--also the rock, when the water flowed--something in reference to this. I think I can make the articles specified more full ....

Well, my dear Willie and Edson and Emma, let us draw very nigh toGod. Let us live daily as we would wish we had lived when the judgment shallsit and the books shall be opened, and when everyone will be rewarded accordingto his works. I am not cast down nor discouraged, but I feel weighed down as acart beneath sheaves. We have had several days of beautiful weather. It hascommenced raining this afternoon. Tell Mary to find me some histories of theBible that would give me the order of events. I have nothing and can findnothing in the library here.

Letter 38, 1885, p. 8.

* Marian Davis (1847-1904) was a highly skilled secretary and literaryassistant to Ellen White. She worked for Ellen White from 1879 until 1904,helping to produce many books, including The Desire of Ages.

Exhibit 36: Sunday, January 16, 1887, Basel, Switzerland, W. C. White toB. L. Whitney**

Dear Brother: It is Sunday afternoon. I have received no telegramfrom Olsen and conclude that their meeting is postponed, therefore I decidednot to go to London. . . ..

I also enclose a list of books prepared by Sister Davis which shewishes to have examined by some of your party that we may know if any of themwill be valuable to us in our Bible study or the preparation of articles onBible subjects. After reading the memoranda as prepared by Sister Davis I seethere is little I need to say. Perhaps you will want some of these in theoffice library. . . .

You will note what they say about the cuts in Farrar's Life ofChrist. This is just the way they talked at first about those in theChild's Life of Christ. . . ..

Please buy of Cassell one set [of] Wylie's Prot., oneHanna's *** Life of Christ, and for your library I think you would dowell to have a set of Geikie's Hours With theBible. If you have not already obtained them in New York, you ought toinquire for, and purchase for your library, The Temple andIts Services, Jewish Social Life, Andrew'sLife of Our Lord, a good harmony of the Gospels, aandother works that will be useful to your wife in preparing notes for the SabbathSchool lessons. She ought to have a copy of the latest and best Bibledictionary.--W. C.

** Elder Whitney (1845-1888) bore heavy responsibilities in the publishingwork which was centered in Basel.

*** William Hanna's Life of Christ was first publishedin 1863.

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White Letter Book A-2, pp. 74-76. (Written from Basel, Switzerland, to B. L.Whitney, who was on business in London, England.)

Exhibit 37: March, 1889,Battle Creek, Michigan, Ellen White to her Daughter-in Law

Mary, Willie is in meeting early and late, devising, planning forthe doing of better and more efficient work in the cause of God. We see himonly at the table. Marian will go to him for some little matters that itseems she could settle for herself. She is nervous and hurried and he soworn he has to just shut his teeth together and hold his nerves as best he can.I have had a talk with her and told her she must settle many things herselfthat she has been bringing Willie. Her mind is on every point and theconnections, and his mind has been plowing through a variety of difficultsubjects until his brain reels and then his mind is in no way prepared to takeup these little minutia. She must just carry some of these things that belongto her part of the work, and not bring them before him nor worry his mind withthem. Sometimes I think she will kill us both, all unnecessarily, with herlittle things she can just as well settle herself as to bring them before us.Every little change of a word she wants us to see. I am about tired of thisbusiness.

Letter 64a, 1889, p. 1.

Exhibit 38: Sunday, 12, 1889, 188g, Ottawa, Kansas, Ellen White to HerFamily

Dear Children of the household: . . . I had been, during the forty-fiveyears of experience, shown the lives, the character and history of thepatriarchs, and prophets, who had come to the people with a message from God,and Satan would start some evil report, or get up some difference of opinion orturn the interest in some other channel, that the people should be deprived ofthe good the Lord had to bestow them. . . . .

I could but have a vivid picture in my mind from day to day of the wayreformers were treated, how slight difference of opinion seemed to create afrenzy of feeling. Thus it was in the betrayal, trial, and crucifixion ofJesus--all this had passed before me point by point

Letter 14, 1889, p. 3.

Exhibit 39: Sunday, February 14, 1892, Preston, Melbourne, Australia,Ellen White Diary Entry

I try to prevent all movements of my arms lest I should shriek outwith pain. I can write with my right hand; can use my arm from the elbow down.The Lord's special blessing comes to me in this. I thank His holy name.

Truth has never been more clearly impressed upon my mind thanduring this sickness and I praise the Lord that I have voice to express thewords He gives me.

Manuscript 29, 1892, p. 2.

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Exhibit 40: Monday, February 15, 1892, Preston, Melbourne, Australia,Ellen White Diary Entry

I have been able to write some upon the life of Christ. I praisethe name of the Lord that my reason is spared to me.

Manuscript 29, 1892, p. 3.

Exhibit 41: Sunday, April 3, 1892, Marian Davis to W. C. White

Since Revel copyrighted the book, "Steps to Christ" beforearrangements were made to reserve the right of using any of the matter in "Lifeof Christ," ought there not to be some understanding with him as soon aspossible? It would be quite a task, after the book is completed, to remove fromL. C. all the sentences and paragraphs that have been used in "Steps." And as Ihave said before, in one case--possibly two--I shall want to use rather morethan a page from "Steps."

White Estate Document File #393a. (Written from Preston, Melbourne,Victoria, Australia.)

Exhibit 42: Friday, July 15, 1892, Preston, Victoria, Australia, EllenWhite to O. A. Olsen*

This is indeed a physical weakness for me, and almost absolutedependence upon others. So new is this experience to me that I have felt amazedthat it should be so. But though almost helpless in body, in heart I feel nosense of age.

This week I have been enabled to commence writing on the life ofChrist. Oh, how inefficient, how incapable I am of expressing the things whichburn in my soul in reference to the mission of Christ! I have hardly dared toenter upon the work. There is so much to it all. And what shall I say, and whatshall I leave unsaid? I lie awake nights pleading with the Lord for the HolySpirit to come upon me, to abide upon me.

I walk with trembling before God. I know not how to speak or tracewith pen the large subject of the atoning sacrifice. I know not how to presentsubjects in the living power in which they stand before me. I tremble for fearlest I shall belittle the great plan of salvation by cheap words. I bow my soulin awe and reverence before God and say, "Who is sufficient for thesethings?"

Letter 40, 1892, p. 4.

*O. A. Olsen was General Conference president from 1888 to1897.

Exhibit 43: Monday, October 30, 1892, Marian Davis to Ellen White

I want to ask a question about the two parables of the hiddentreasure and the merchant man seeking goodly pearls. Do these two parablesrepresent exactly the same thing? It does not seem as if Christ wouldgive two parables to teach exactly the same thing. Is there not somepoint in which they differ? Might they not represent two different classes whofind the truth? The man who finds the treasure is not said

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to have been seeking for it. He may have come upon it unexpectedly as hewas at work in the fields. But when he finds it, he is ready to give allin order to possess it. Then he will diligently search the field formore. How many there are to whom the truth comes that way, unexpectedly,unsought, but who gladly sacrifice for its sake when they discern itspreciousness. But the merchant was seeking goodly pearls. So there are earnestand thoughtful minds everywhere who are earnestly seeking for somethingprecious and enduring--something upon which to fix their hopes, and when thetruth is received to them, they too receive it with great joy.

Thus through all time the two parables would appeal to twodifferent classes of people. I know the parable of the treasure has been usedto represent diligence in searching. But this explanation would not do awaywith that. Does not the searching come in after he finds that there istreasure hid in the field?

I have gone past these parables in my work, but am anxious to havethem brought out just right, and if you can give me any light on them I shallbe very thankful.

White Estate Document File #393a. (Written from St. Kilda, Melbourne, toEllen White who was at Adelaide.)

Exhibit 44: Thursday, March 16, 1893, Marian Davis to Ellen White

Would it be all right for me to have Sister Tenney copy some of thechapters in life of Christ? It is hard to work in advance, when all mymanuscript is in shape so difficult to refer to. Can't tell what has beenintroduced and what has not. Thought it might be a help to get the manuscriptcopied.

White Estate Document File #393a. (Written from St. Kilda, Melbourne, toEllen White who was in New Zealand.)

Exhibit 45: Wednesday, March 29, 1893, Marian Davis to W. C. White

You will perhaps remember some things I said last spring about thenecessity of having the matter from articles and scrapbooks, that might beavailable for use in the life of Christ, copied, so as to be convenient forreference. Perhaps you can imagine the difficulty of trying to bring togetherpoints relating to any subject, when these must be gleaned from thirtyscrapbooks [of E. G. White materials], a half-dozen bound volumes, and fiftymanuscripts, all covering thousands of pages. . . .

One thing more as to why so much more is needed for life of Christthan for previous books. The material is much more abundant, the range ofsubjects much greater; the work demands more in every way.

White Estate Document File #393a. (Written from St. Kilda, Melbourne,Australia.)

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Exhibit 46: Monday, May 22, 1893, Marian Davis to Ellen White

As I read over the new chapters on LC [Life of Christ] they seemvery precious to me--the lessons of hope and faith, the love and tenderness ofthe Saylout, and I feel anxious that the book should go to the people. I praythat God will give you strength and will give grace and wisdom tome.

White Estate Document File #393a. (Written from St. Kilda, Melbourne, toEllen White who was in New Zealand.)

Exhibit 47: Tuesday, May 23, 1893, Wellington, New Zealand, Ellen WhiteDiary Entry

It is cloudy and raining this morning. I have been writing upon thelife of Christ since four o'clock. Oh, that the Holy Spirit may rest and abideupon me, that my pen may trace the words which will communicate to others thelight which the Lord has been pleased in His great mercy and love to give tome.

Manuscript 80, 1893, p. 20.

Exhibit 48: Thursday, June 15, 1893, Wellington, New Zealand, EllenWhite to W. C. White

Dear Son Willie: . . . Marian, you know, cannot be closelyconfined. She is all enthused with hospital work. I am anxious to get out thelife of Christ. Marian specifies chapters and subjects for me to write uponthat I do not see really need to be written upon. I may see more light in them.These I shall not enter upon without the Lord's Spirit seems to lead me. Thebuilding a tower, the war of kings, these things do not burden my mind, but thesubjects of the life of Christ, His character representing the Father, theparables essential for us all to understand and practice the lessons containedin them, I shall dwell upon.

Letter 131, 1893, p. 3.

Exhibit 49: Sunday, July 2, 1893, Wellington, New Zealand, Ellen Whiteto W. C. White

Dear Son Willie: . . . We must begin, very decidedly, to understandwhere the forthcoming book is to be published, for we must move carefully inthe fear God. . . ..

I write some every day on the life of Christ. One chapter sets mymind fresh upon other subjects so that I have several scratch books that I amwriting upon. I hardly dare send manuscript by young Linden, fearing it may getlost, and I wish to give more time to some subjects.

Letter 132, 1893, p. 6.

Exhibit 50: Friday, July 7, 1893, Wellington, New Zealand, Ellen Whiteto W. C. White

Dear Son Willie: . . . I have written you a little bit every mailwe heard of that went to Australia, and when Brother Linden went, sent you aletter and manuscript for Fanny and Marian--some on life of Christ and some forFanny. That on life of Christ can be used for articles for thepaper.

Letter 133, 1893, p. 3.

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Exhibit 51: Wednesday, August 2, 1893, Marian Davis to Ellen White

Now, about the book. I am so glad you are writing on the two journeys toGalilee. I was so afraid you would not bring that out. Shall hope to receivesomething from you before long. There's a good deal of work to be done behindme, but I don't like to turn back if I can help it, rather wait, till I getnearly or quite through, and have all the matter together, and then I can goback once for all, and finish up. That will save me going over theground more than twice. . . .

I send two chapters on L.C. [Life of Christ] that were left when I sentbefore. I addressed them and left in the till of W. C. [White]'s trunk. . . .

I shall watch with great interest for the arrival of the promisedmanuscript. Am so glad you are writing just where you are. There is such a richfield in the teachings of Christ after He left Jerusalem after the Feast ofTabernacles.

White Estate Document File #393a. (Written from Prahran, Melbourne,Australia, to Ellen White who was in New Zealand.)

Exhibit 52: Tuesday, August 22, 1893, Marian Davis to Ellen White

I have a number of chapters prepared on life of Christ, but cannot get themcopied just now. Perhaps I can on vacation. If so, I will send them to you. Amglad you are working on life of Christ and am looking eagerly for manuscript.There are chapters--or parts--that are to be prepared in what I have goneover--some things that were left incomplete, and I can be working on these tillI get more manuscript. Of course I have a considerable manuscript ahead ofwhere I am working, but it is not in regular connection, and it will be betterto prepare it after I get the intervening links.

White Estate Document File #393a. (Written from Prahran, Melbourne,Australia, to Ellen White in New Zealand.)

Exhibit 53: Thursday, October 5, 1893, Marian Davis to Ellen White

There are some points I would like to ask about the life of Christ. Wasn'tit all through His life on earth, a struggle with Him to restrain His divinepower--to keep the level of humanity? Especially in the temptation in thewilderness when Satan came to him saying, If Thou be the Son of God,then for Christ not to assert Himself, not to rebuke the tempter. And in thelast temptation, I would like to know if this idea is right--Adam helddominion over the earth, but as subject to Christ. The Son of God wasthe real, original ruler, and Adam held dominion under him. Adam betrayed toSatan his dominion, but back of that, Christ was the first ruler of the world.Now in the temptation, Satan comes with his stolen title and offers it toChrist, the original ruler, on condition that Christ shall pay him homage. Todo this would be to place Satan in supremacy as the original ruler, and Christto be subordinate to Satan. The intolerable impudence--if I may be permittedthe expression--of Satan! It seems as if Christ must have been tempted to blothim out of existence then and there, and bring to an end all

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his miserable work. Now, if there is anything to this, I wish it might bebrought out, that Christ never asserted Himself, He bore all themisrepresentation and assumption of Satan, and just lived--Just let Hislife shine out, the unfolding of God's eternal love, as the vindication ofHimself, and the eternal refutation of all the claims of Satan. Oh, what awonderful lesson that has for us, not to vindicate or assert ourselves, but tolet principle unfold and develop, to let our life speak, while we are silent.

The lessons on the life of Christ seem to excite general interest. BrotherStarr draws quite fully from the manuscript chapters. . . .

I am attending the Bible class now. It breaks up my time some, but sincethey are considering the life of Christ I want to hear it, as any discussion orpresentation of that subject brings it up fresh to one's own mind.

White Estate Document File #393a. (Written from Prahran, Melbourne, toEllen White in New Zealand.)

Exhibit 54: Wednesday, October 18, 1893, Marian Davis to Ellen White

I hope it will not be necessary for me to work on testimony, at least atpresent. The Bible studies [at the Australasian Bible School] are on the lifeof Christ, and I am anxious to keep on that line of thought if possible, if Iam to continue the work on the book. There is much yet to be done with thematerial I have, though,of course, the sooner new matter can be had, thebetter.

Oh, when I see how we seem to be in the circles of a whirlpool that issweeping us faster and faster toward the greatconsummation I do long to see this book go out, to reveal Christ to thepeople as He is in His beauty. Let the work be done by whomever God shallchoose, but Oh, I want to see it done, and I will be so thankful if He will useme anywhere. There is a very great loss in stopping, breaking off the chain ofthought and beginning over again. But I am ready to do it, if necessary. Butwhile we are studying the life of Christ and the matter is on my mind it seemslike poor policy to work at something else. . . .

I sympathize with you in the constant moving. It must be very wearisome. Butwhat a privilege the New Zealand people are having!

I shall be so glad when we can talk over the work. So many points come upthat I want to ask about, and I shall appreciate the privilege of havingsomeone to read the chapters to.

I will send you a few more chapters soon. Brother [W.F.] Caldwell copies forme Sunday forenoons. . . . I am real anxious to get some chapters finished andsome gaps filled before going to any other work. . . .

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These are busy days, the Bible class coming in the middle of the forenoon israther inconvenient, but while the life of Christ is studied, I can't afford tolose it, for it is the only thing I have bearing on my work, and it wakes one'smind up to hear the matter talked over.

White Estate Document File #393a. (Written from Prahran, Melbourne,Australia, to Ellen White in New Zealand.)

Exhibit 55: Thursday, January 18, 1894, Brighton, Victoria, Australia,EGW to W. W. Prescott

[Written in her tent at the Brighton camp meeting to the president of BattleCreek College, concerning a problem in that institution.]

Now I must leave this subject so imperfectly presented, that I fear you willmisinterpret that which I feel so anxious to make plain. Oh, that God wouldquicken the understanding, for I am but a poor writer, and cannot with pen orvoice express the great and deep mysteries of God. Oh, pray for yourselves,pray for me.

Letter 67, 1894, p. 10.

Exhibit 56: 1894, Granville, New South Wales, Australia, Ellen White toO. A. Olsen

It is decided in council I shall write on the life of Christ; but how anybetter than in the past? Questions and the true conditions of things here andthere are urged upon me. . . .

I have done scarcely anything on the life of Christ, and have been obligedto often bring Marian to my help, irrespective of the work on the life ofChrist which she has to do under great difficulties, gathering from all mywritings a little here and a little there, to arrange as best she can. But sheis in good working order, if I could only feel free to give my whole attentionto the work. She has her mind educated and trained for the work; and now Ithink, as I have thought a few hundred times, I shall be able after this mailcloses to take the life of Christ and go ahead with it, if the Lord will.

Letter 55, 1894, p. 6.

Exhibit 57: Thursday, October 25, 1894, Granville, New South Wales,Australia, Ellen White to Dr. John Harvey Kellogg.

Marian is working at the greatest disadvantage. I find but little time inwhich to write on the life of Christ. I am continually receiving letters thatdemand an answer, and I dare not neglect important matters that are brought tomy notice. Then there are churches to visit, private testimonies to write, andmany other things to be attended to that tax me and consume my time. Mariangreedily grasps every letter I write to others in order to find sentences thatshe can use in the life

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of Christ. She has been collecting everything that has a bearing on Christ'slessons to His disciples, from all possible sources. After the camp meeting isended, which is a very important meeting, I shall locate myself in some placewhere I can give myself to the work of writing on the life of Christ. Wherethat will be is a question that is not settled, but it must be done. . . .

There is much to be done in the churches, and I cannot act my part inkeeping up the interest and do the other work that is necessary for me to dowithout becoming so weary that I cannot devote strength to writing on the lifeof Christ. I am much perplexed as to what is my duty. . . .

I have about decided to . . . devote all my time to writing for the booksthat ought to be prepared without further delay. I would like to write on thelife of Christ, on Christian Temperance, and prepare testimony No. 34, for itis very much needed. I will have to stop writing so much for the papers, andlet the Review and Herald, the Signs ofthe Times, and all other periodicals go without articles from my penfor this year. All articles that appear under my signature are fresh, newwritings from my pen. I am sorry that I have not more literary help. I needthis kind of help very much. Fannie could help me a great deal on the book workif she had not so many articles to prepare for the papers, and so many lettersand testimonies to edit to meet the demands of my correspondence and the needsof the people. It is of no use to expect anything from Marian until the life ofChrist is completed. I wish I could procure another intelligent worker whocould be trusted to prepare matter for the press. Such a worker would be ofgreat value to me. But the question is, Where shall I find such an one? I ambrain weary much of the time. I write many pages before breakfast. I rise inthe morning at two, three, and four o'clock. . . .

You know that my whole theme both in the pulpit and in private, by voice andpen, is the life of Christ. Hitherto nearly all that I have written on thistheme has been written during the hours when others are sleeping.

Letter 41, 1895, pp. 1-4.

Exhibit 58: Monday, December 10, 1894, W. C. White to Miss JuliaMalcolm

As regards your questions about Mother's writings you may have noticed inher [public] addresses that she has a full vocabulary and much power ofdescription and at the same time you may have noticed faulty grammaticalconstructions. Those familiar with her writings find the same characteristicsand also we find that as scenes which are similar in character and import areimpressed upon her mind that she writes them out rapidly without reference tochronological order or other apparent connection. We are often perplexed bythis characteristic in some of the prophetic books of the Bible.

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The secretaries and copyists who prepare Mother's writings for the printerremove repetitions so that the matter may be brought into the allotted space.They correct bad grammar and they fit the matter for publication. Theysometimes carry her best expressions of thought from one paragraph to anotherbut do not introduce their own thoughts into the matter. The thoughts and theexpressions which you mention are Mother's own thoughts and expressions. Withkindest regards.

W. C. White Letter Book 7, p. 20. (Written from Norfolk Villa,Prospect Road, Granville, N. S. W., Australia, to Julia Malcolm in Brighton,Victoria, Australia.)

Exhibit 59: Sabbath, August 10, 1895, Marian Davis to Ellen White

Just as long as I can see work to do on the manuscript it is hard for me toleave it. So long as I can work, the greatest rest for me is to see the workadvancing. I am not by any means wasting the time, but am doing work that mustbe done and that there may not be time for by and by. . . . Of course nothingwill go that you do not approve. God will help. I feel that He does help.

Yet I don't feel that I could take a vacation until the book is completed.That is, so long as there is work to do on it.

White Estate Document File #393a. (Written from Granville, NSW.)

Exhibit 60: Monday, November 25, 1895, Marian Davis to Ellen White

We sent the letter for Sydney workers to Brother McCullagh. It was so good.I must keep all the general for my scrapbooks. Of late I have been using thematter gleaned from late letters, testimonies, etc. Have found some of the mostprecious things, some in those letters to Elder Corliss. They have been to melike a storehouse of treasures. There's something in these personal testimoniesthat are written with deep feeling, that comes close to the heart. It seems tome the things gathered in this way give a power and significance to the bookthat nothing else does. I hope the one who copies will not forget to send me acopy of everything.

White Estate Received Correspondence File. (Written from Granville, NSW.)

Exhibit 61: Sunday, December 22, 1895, Marian Davis to J. E. White

Since these books are sent out without explanation as to the authority bywhich the author speaks, it was thought best to avoid, as far as we could,statements for which the Bible seems to furnish no proof, or which to theordinary reader appear to contradict the Bible. Better to give the reader whatthey will accept and profit by than to excite criticism and questioning thatwill lead them to discredit the whole. . . .

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Sister White says that Christ was twice crowned with thorns, but as theBible mentions only the second crowning, it was thought best to omit the first,or rather to give the second instead of the first.

White Estate Received Correspondence File.

Exhibit 62: Monday, April 13, 1896, Marian Davis to A. O. Tait

We have not yet given special attention, in the preparation of manuscriptfor the new life of Christ, to the closing scenes of the Saviour's life. Ofcourse the matter is not so vivid in Sister White's mind as when she isspecially writing or speaking on it, nor can I speak so decidedly on it asafter I have worked on the manuscript.

White Estate Received Correspondence File. (Written from Sunnyside,Cooranbong, Australia.)

Exhibit 63: Sabbath,June 6, 1896 , EGW Manuscript, "Illustrations of Heavenly Things"

That which is holy and elevated in heavenly things, I scarcely darerepresent. Often I lay down my pen and say, Impossible, impossible for finiteminds to grasp eternal truths, and deep holy principles, and to express theirliving import. I stand ignorant and helpless. The rich current of thoughttakes possession of my whole being, and I lay down my pen, and say, Oh Lord, Iam finite, I am weak, and simple and ignorant; Thy grand and holy revelations Ican never find language to express.

My words seem inadequate. I despair of clothing the truth God has made knownconcerning His great redemption, which engrossed to itself His undividedattention in the only begotten Son of the Infinite One. The truths that are tolast through time and through eternity, the great plan of redemption, whichcost so much for the salvation of the human race, presenting before them a lifethat measures with the life of God--these truths are too full, deep, and holyfor human words or human pen to adequately express.

Manuscript 23, 1896, p. 2.

Exhibit 64: Friday, July 16, 1896, Cooranbong, New South Wales,Australia, EGW to Mrs. Wessels

Dear Sister Wessels: . . . The manuscript for the "Life of Christ" is justabout to be sent to America. This will be handled by the Pacific Press. I haveemployed workers to prepare this book, especially Sister Davis, and this hascost me three thousand dollars. Another three thousand will be needed toprepare it to be scattered broadcast through the world in two books. We hopethat they will have a large sale. I have devoted little time to these books,for speaking,writing articles for the papers, and writing private testimoniesto meet and repress the evils that are coming in, keeps me busy.

Letter 114, 1896, p. 3.

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Exhibit 65: Monday, November 23, 1896, Marian Davis to C. H. Jones

This morning Brother White handed me your letter of October 6, with list ofcuts etc., asking me to write to you in regard to it. Had I seen them beforeleaving Cooranbong, where my lists and MS are, I could have written moreintelligently. As it is, I can mention but few points.

I. Transposition of chapters. In the order of chapters we followed Andrews'*Harmony, as given in his Life of Christ. He is generally regarded as the verybest authority, and is quoted by leading writers. We know of no betterarrangement than his. (The year between the first and second passover seems tohave been a period of comparative quiet and seclusion; that between the secondand third, of activity and publicity.) Those who read the MS, ProfessorPrescott and Sister Burnham, agreed with our arrangement. We would not like tosee this chapter transposed.

"Imprisonment and Death of John." The place of this chapter is optional, ofcourse. But no one has heretofore objected to its present position. As to thereference to John in Chapter 28, coming after the account of his death, this isnot unusual in other books. See Geikie and many others. If the chapter weretransposed, it would probably be best to omit the first paragraph. But nothaving the MS to refer to, I cannot speak with much positiveness.

W. C. White Letter Book 10-A, p. 17a. (Written from Ashfield, N. S.W., Australia, to C. H. Jones in Oakland, California.)

Exhibit 66: March 11, 1897, Marian Davis to C. H. Jones

Your letter of February 2 received by last mail. I am very glad to know ofthe decisions in regard to the size and style of the book.I believe the plan isright, and I am thankful that no plates have been made to be thrown aside.

We noted the titles mentioned--"Desire of Ages" and "Desire of All Nations."Sister White prefers the former, as I do, with all others who have expressed anopinion.

You ask me if I cannot, by this mail, send to the press the manuscript ofthe parables. You also ask when the balance of the manuscript for the last bookwill be ready. And you request Sister White to write on the parable of the richman and Lazarus. I fully agree with you that the "Life of Christ" should beclosed up as soon as possible. But let me state the situation: Considerablymore than a year ago, Sister White began writing on the trial and crucifixionof Christ. She has a number

*Samuel J. Andrews, The Life of Our Lord upon the Earth, firstpublished in 1862. The 1891 edition was in Ellen White's library. Andrews'Harmony of the Gospels appears on pp. xxi to xxvii.

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of manuscripts unfinished. It is her intention to gather these together assoon as possible and complete them for the book. Of late she has had a veryheavy burden for the General Conference, as well as for individuals, and thework in South Africa and in Cooranbong. But now that the Conference is over,and she has written quite fully in regard to these other cases, she fullyintends to devote her time to the manuscript. I have been almost consumed withanxiety to complete the book. I prepared some chapters with what material Ihad, thinking that she would not write more on these subjects. She did write onthem, however, and I had my work to do over.

White Estate Received Correspondence File. (Written from Sunnyside,Cooranbong, Australia.)

Exhibit 67: Sunday, April 11, 1897, Marian Davis to W. C. White

I see that neither in Brother Jones' letter nor in yours have I stateddefinitely just what I am doing on the manuscript and why. In the firstplace, I have worked for a better opening to the chapters. As to the success ofthe effort, let any canvasser who examines the pages I have sent to BrotherJones bear testimony. The chapters of the old manuscript began too often withsome notice of Jesus going here or there, until the book seemed almost like adiary. That has been corrected. Then I have tried to begin both chaptersand paragraphs with short sentences, and indeed to simplify whereverpossible, to drop out every needless word, and to make the work, as I havesaid, more compact and vigorous. On some chapters I had fresh, livematter that will add greatly to the interest of the book. If you would offerme, personally, a thousand dollars for the work that has been done on the bookduring the past few weeks, I would not look at it. I never realized the powerof simplicity and compactness, as since I began this work. . . .When I think ofthe many thousands who will read the book, I want just as little humanimperfection as possible to mar its divine beauty.

White Estate Received Correspondence File. (Written from Sunnyside,Cooranbong, Australia.)

Exhibit 68: Thursday, July 29, 1897, Cooranbong, New South Wales,Australia, EGW Diary Entry

I awaken at half past two, and offer up my prayer to God in the name ofJesus. I am weak in physical strength; my head is not free from pain; my lefteye troubles me. In writing upon the life of Christ I am deeply wrought upon. Iforget to breathe as I should. I cannot endure the intensity of feeling thatcomes over me as I think of what Christ has suffered in our world.

Manuscript 70, 1897, p. 1.

Exhibit 69: August 9,1897, Marian Davis to W. C. White

I received notice from C. H. Jones that it was planned to publish "Desire ofAges" in the spring of '98, and in order to do this, all the copy must be inthe hands of the printers as early as September, '97.

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From what I learn of the artist's work, I cannot believe that the printerswill be ready for the manuscript by September. They have now twenty-fivechapters, as finally revised. Twenty-five more were prepared to send, but a fewchanges will have to be made in them, as I finish the later chapters. For thisI am holding them. . . .

Sister White is constantly harassed with the thought that the manuscriptshould be sent to the printers at once. I wish it were possible to relieve hermind, for the anxiety makes it hard for her to write and for me to work. . . .Sister White seems inclined to write, and I have no doubt she will bring outmany precious things. I hope it will be possible to get them into the book.There is one thing, however, that not even the most competent editor coulddo--that is prepare the manuscript before it is written.

White Estate Received Correspondence File. (Written from Sunnyside,Cooranbong, Australia.)

Exhibit 70: 1897-98 Working Papers for The Desire of Ages

[Due to the lack of adequate space in the White Estate vault in Washington,D.C., a number of old White Estate documents and books have been stored forseveral years in boxes in nearby buildings where they have not been readilyaccessible. The recent allocation of additional space to the White Estate hasmade possible the opening of these boxes.

On May 16, 1979, James Nix found, in one of these storage boxes, part of theworking papers used in the preparation of The Desire of Ages in EllenWhite's office in Cooranbong, Australia, in 1897 and 1898. These paperscomprise chapters 2 to 37 (pages 27 to 358) of the present book. The workingpapers are of special interest as they show what apparently were, in largemeasure at least, the final revisions made in the manuscript before it was sentfrom Australia to the Pacific Press.

The next three exhibits are xerox reproductions made from these Desire ofAges working papers. They include portions of pages 80-81, 98-99, and331-332. The very legible handwriting on the first two pages has beententatively identified as belonging to Maggie Hare, while the less legiblehandwriting on the third page is that of Marian Davis.]

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Exhibit 72: Sunday, November 21, 1897, W. C. White to C. H. Jones

On returning from Sydney I showed Mother and Sister Davis the proofs which Ihad brought of chapter headings, vignettes, etc., for the new book. Some ofthem we like very well. About others we feel much disappointed. . . .

In looking at some photographs of the Mount of Olives, Mother told us howmuch more beautiful the country was in the time of Christ, that the placeswhich are now bare and dreary were then beautified by magnificent trees andgroves. O. I wish we could get some pictures that would represent these placesas she has seen them. But I know not how to do this.

W. C. White Letter Book 11-A, p. 342. (Written from Cooranbong,Australia, to C. H. Jones in New York City.)

Exhibit 73: Tuesday, March 1, 1898, Marian Davis to Ellen White

This morning we mail "The Man of Sorrows," copied from the new matter youleft; and the parable of the talents, for the parable book. The matter on thesower which was given to Minnie, she has copied. But that which was given toMiss Peck has not been done. If Miss Peck does not have time to do it soon, Ithink we will let Minnie take it, as I am anxious to get it into your hands,and you will want it all together, so as to know what you have. We will notsend any on the sower till we can send all.

I have been gathering out the precious things from these new manuscripts onthe early life of Jesus. Sent a number of new pages to California by theVancouver mail, and shall send more for later chapters by the next mail. Two ofthose new articles on Christ's missionary work I let Brother James have to readin church. Last Sabbath he read the one which speaks of the Saviour's denyingHimself of food to give to the poor. These things are unspeakably precious. Ihope it is not too late to get them into the book. It has been a feast to workon this matter. . . .

I learn that our Sabbath Schools are soon to take up the study of the lifeof Christ. So the book will come out just in time to help them. I am so glad.

I will send a copy of a little I gathered out for the chapter,"In Joseph'sTomb." It supplies a link that was missing, and I think will be a real help tothe book. . . .

I learn that the work of setting the book is underway, so we want to finishup the last chapters as soon as possible. Hope you will be able to send us,soon, the rest of the matter on Christ's ministry of healing, and, as soon asconvenient, the rich man and Lazarus. I do hope the book on the parables cancome out at the same time with the life of Christ.

White Estate Received Correspondence File. (Written from Sunnyside,Cooranbong, Australia.)

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Exhibit 74: Thursday, March 10, 1898, Marian Davis to Ellen White

Minnie is sending you this morning the matter she has been copying. That onthe sower is all we have--the article given to Miss Peck, and the manuscriptleft with me. Now, if you do not wish to add anything more, I can go on andfinish the chapter, but shall wait to hear from you. The article I send, "NoReward but of Grace," the parable of the laborers, is the last of the matterthat was prepared for the book. I had planned to let this close the book. Thelast paragraphs seem to me very precious. The parable of the talents, whichcomes just before this, has set forth the importance of working, using everypower for God, and this shows the spirit in which the work should be done. Afew sentences you will recognize as from a letter lately written--"The goldengate is not opened to the proud in spirit. But the everlasting portals willopen wide to the trembling touch of a little child."

You left me a manuscript on the unjust steward, and I have been collectingmaterial to complete this, and have found some precious things to add to theclosing chapters of the life of Christ. Of course I cannot compile the chapters(the last two) until I receive what you write on the ministry of healing.

White Estate Received Correspondence File. (Written from Sunnyside,Cooranbong, Australia.)

Exhibit 75: Monday, March 21, 1898, Marian Davis to Ellen White

The matter you sent on the ministry of healing was just what was wanted. Ihave used as much as I could get into the chapter, "Go Teach All Nations." WhenMinnie comes home I will have it copied, and send you a copy. I am so glad wecould get these things into the book, for they add greatly to its value andhelpfulness. Brother White thinks it best to send the last two chapters, "GoTeach All Nations," and "To My Father and Your Father," by the boat that goeson Sabbath. I have no idea they are ready for them yet, but he thinks it willencourage them to push forward the work, and I shall send them. I feel in sucha hurry for the book to come out. I hardly know how to wait, but the waitinggives time to work up the parables, and it will be so good to have both comeout at the same time.

I have used some of the new matter on the parables, and shall go right onwith the work. I want to get into the book just as much as possible of thefresh matter on nature teaching.

These things have been a feast to me. I want my heart enlarged and my mindenlarged to take in these grand, great principles.

White Estate Received Correspondence File. (Written from Sunnyside,Cooranbong, NSW, to Ellen White who was at Melbourne.)

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Exhibit 76: Monday, June 6, 1898, Marian Davis to Miss E. J. Burnham

By this mail we send index. It is not properly finished. Has been verifiedonly to page 32. The girls worked almost all night to do that, and therevising. We must ask you to verify, as you will have to substitute the typenumbering for MS numbering of pages. . . . I worked all night last night. . . .

Sister White has read all the chapters, and expresses herself much pleasedwith them.

W. C. White Letter Book 10-A, pp. 145-6. (Written from Cooranbong,Australia, to Miss Burnham at the Pacific Press in Oakland, California.)

Exhibit 77: Wednesday, June 15, 1898, Marian Davis to Miss E. J.Burnham

Your letter of May 16, with proofs, received. I have hastily read the pages.Except one or two trifling errors, the text is all right. I can't tell you howgreat relief I feel on seeing so much of the matter in type, and straight. Havebeen almost consumed with anxiety in thinking of the possibilities for so manyinsertions sent so far away. I am unspeakably thankful to God, whose good handis over the work, that He has made it possible for you to have it in charge,and I hope that no word of mine may bring on you any needless burden. . . .

In the preface, would it not be well to state, in some way, that this bookis not a harmony of the gospels, that it does not attempt to teach chronology.Its purpose is to present the love of God, the divine beauty of the life ofChrist, not to satisfy the questioning of critics. The above may not be thebest way to put it. It is intended only as a suggestion.

W. C. White Letter Book 10-A, pp. 166-8. (Written from Cooranbong,Australia, to Miss Burnham at the Pacific Press in Oakland, California.)

Exhibit 78: Monday, March 5, 1900, Marian Davis to MariusChristensen

Many persons seem to attach far more value to an unpublished manuscript ofSister White than to the matter printed in books. But in all she has written Iknow of nothing better than the things to which reference has been given. Insuch books as Desire of Ages, have been carefully gathered together many of themost precious things which she has written during a score of years.

W. C. White Letter Book 10-A, pp. 203-4. (Written from Cooranbong to MariusChristensen in Hayward, Minnesota.)

Exhibit 79: Monday, April23, 1900, Sunnyside, Cooranbong, Australia, EGW to G. A. Irwin*

Dear Brother: . . . My copyists you have seen. They do not change mylanguage. It stands as I write it.

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Marian's work is of a different order altogether. She is my bookmaker. A_____ never was my bookmaker. How are my books made? Marian does not put in herclaim for recognition. She does her work in this way: She takes my articleswhich are published in the papers, and pastes them in blank books. She also hasa copy of all the letters I write. In preparing a chapter for a book, Marianremembers that I have written something on that special point, which may makethe matter more forcible. She begins to search for this, and if when she findsit, she sees that it will make the chapter more clear, she adds it.

The books are not Marian's productions, but my own, gathered from all mywritings. Marian has a large field from which to draw, and her ability toarrange the matter is of great value to me. It saves my poring over a mass ofmatter, which I have no time to do.

So you understand that Marian is a most valuable help to me in bringing outmy books. A _____ had none of this work to do. Marian has read chapters to her,and A_____ has sometimes made suggestions as to the arrangement of the matter.

This is the difference between the workers. As I have stated, A _____ hasbeen strictly forbidden to change my words for her words. As spoken by theheavenly agencies, the words are severe in their simplicity; and I try to putthe thoughts into such simple language that a child can understand every worduttered. The words of someone else would not rightly represent me.

I have written thus fully in order that you may understand the matter. A_____ may claim that she has made my books, but she has not done so. This hasbeen Marian's field, and her work is far in advance of any work A _____ hasdone for me.

Letter 61a, 1900, pp. 4-5. (The first part of this quotation appearsin The Ministry, December, 1975, pp. 14, 15).

* President of the General Conference, 1897-1901.

Exhibit 80: Monday, April 23, 1900, Marian Davis to G. A. Irwin

A report in circulation in Battle Creek has just come to my notice. Lest,through this report, any should be led to reject the instruction and warning ofthe Spirit of God, I feel it a duty to say what I know in regard to the matterin question.

It is reported that the writing of a testimony for a prominent man in BattleCreek was intrusted to one of Sister White's former workers, or that she wasgiven matter for him, with instruction to fill out the points, so that thetestimony was virtually her work.

I cannot think that anyone who has been connected with Sister White's workcould make such a statement as this. I cannot think that anyone who isacquainted with Sister White's manner of writing could possibly believe it. Theburden she feels when the case of an individual is presented before her, theintense pressure under which she works, often rising at midnight to write outthe warnings given her, and often for days, weeks, or even months, writingagain and again concerning it,

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as if she could not free herself from the feeling of responsibility forthat soul,--no one who has known anything of [these] experiences, could believethat she would intrust to another the writing of a testimony.

For more than twenty years I have been connected with Sister White's work.During this time I have never been asked either to write out a testimony fromoral instruction, or to fill out the points in matter already written. The onewho is reported to have made the statement was never, to my knowledge, eitherasked or permitted to do such a thing. And from my own knowledge of the work,as well as from the statements of Sister White herself, I have the strongestpossible ground for disbelieving that such a thing was done.

W. C. White Letter Book 10-A, pp. 207-8. (Written from Sunnyside,Cooranbong, Australia.)

Exhibit 81: Monday, May 7,1900, W. C. White to G. A. Irwin

Sometimes when Mother's mind is rested, and free, the thoughts are presentedin language that is not only clear and strong, but beautiful and correct; andat times when she is weary and oppressed with heavy burdens of anxiety, or whenthe subject is difficult to portray, there are repetitions and ungrammaticalsentences.

Mother's copyists are entrusted with the work of correcting grammaticalerrors, of eliminating unnecessary repetitions, and of grouping paragraphs andsections in their best order. If a passage is not fully understood, the copyistasks its full meaning and proper connection. When corrected and plainly copiedwith the typewriter or the pen, the manuscripts are all carefully examined byMother, and corrected, wherever correction is required, and then copied again,if the corrections are numerous. This is done with many manuscripts, not onlybecause corrections are made in the work of the copyist, but because Mothersees a way to express the thought a little more clearly or more fully.

Often Mother writes out a matter the second time, because she feels that itis very difficult to put in writing the scene or events, as they are presentedto her.

Mother's workers of experience, such as Sisters Davis, Burnham, Bolton, Peckand Hare, who are very familiar with her writings, are authorized to take asentence, paragraph, or section from one manuscript and incorporate it withanother manuscript where the same thought was expressed but not so clearly.But none of Mother's workers are authorized to add to the manuscripts byintroducing thoughts of their own. They are instructed that it is the words andthoughts that Mother has written, or spoken, that are to be used.

W. C. White Letter File, White Estate.

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Exhibit 82: Monday, May 21, 1900, Sunnyside, Cooranbong, Australia, EGWto G. A. Irwin

Dear Brother Irwin: . . . God would be pleased to see TheDesire of Ages in every home. In this book is containedthe light He has given upon His word. To our canvassers I would say, Go forthwith your hearts softened and subdued by reading of the life of Christ. Drinkdeeply of the water of salvation, that it may be in your heart as a livingspring, flowing forth to refresh souls ready to perish.

Letter 75, 1900. (Colporteur Ministry, pp. 126-127.)

Exhibit 83: Wednesday, June 20, 1900, Sunnyside, Cooranbong, Australia,EGW to Edson & Emma White

Dear Children Edson and Emma: I received your letter,* Edson. In regardto The Desire of Ages, when you meet with those whohave criticisms to make, as will always be the case, do not take any notice ofthe supposed mistakes, but praise the book, tell of its advantages. TheDesire of Ages would have been the same size as the twoformer books had it not been for the strong recommendation of Brother B_____who was then General Canvassing Agent. What you say about the appendix is thefirst objection we have heard regarding that feature. Many have spoken of thegreat help they have found in the appendix. If people are prejudiced againstanything that makes prominent the Sabbath, that very objection shows thenecessity of it being there to convict minds.

Let us be guarded. Let us refuse to allow the criticisms of anyone toimprint objections on our minds. Let criticizers live by their trade ofcriticism. They cannot speak in favor of the very best of blessings withoutattaching a criticism to cast a shadow of reproach. Let us educate ourselves topraise that which is good when others criticize. Murmurers will always pickflaws, but let us not be saddened by the accusing element. Let us not considerit a virtue to make and suggest difficulties which one mind and another willbring in to harass and perplex.

Letter 87, 1900, pp. 1,2.

* James Edson White's letter to his mother, dated May 11, 1900, involvedcriticisms of the size, format, price and illustrations of Desireof Ages. He also so objected to the appendix in the firstedition, asking "What is the use of pitching into other people's beliefs in theway it is done in this appendix?" He argued that such material made itdifficult for literature evangelists to sell the book.

Exhibit 84: Sunday, August 10, 1902, Elmshaven, St. Helena, California,EGW to her sister Mary

My dear sister Mary [Foss]: . . . Now, my sister, do not think that I haveforgotten you; for I have not. You know that I have books to make. My lasteffort is a book on true education. The writing of this book has been verytrying to me, but it is nearly finished. I am now completing the last chapter.This book will not have In it so much matter as there is in some of my largerworks, but the instruction it contains is important. I feel the need of helpfrom God continually.

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I am still as active as ever. I am not in the least decrepit. I am able todo much work, writing and speaking as I did years ago.

I read over all that is copied, to see that everything is as it should be. Iread all the book manuscript before it is sent to the printer. So you can seethat my time must be fully occupied. Besides writing, I am called upon to speakto the different churches, and to attend important meetings. I could not dothis work unless the Lord helped me.

Letter 133, 1902, pp. 1-2.

Exhibit 85: Tuesday, January 6, 1903, Elmshaven, Sanitarium, California,EGW to Elder and Mrs. J. A. Burden

Dear Brother and Sister Burden: . . . I feel very thankful for the help ofSister Marian Davis in getting out my books. She gathers materials from mydiaries, from my letters, and from the articles published in the papers. Igreatly prize her faithful service. She has been with me for twenty-five years,and has constantly been gaining increasing ability for the work of classifyingand grouping my writings.

Letter 9, 1903. (The Ministry, December, 1975, p. 15.)

Exhibit 86: Cir. September 26, 1904, Elmshaven, St. Helena, California,EGW Manuscript, "A Tribute to Marian Davis"

Marian, my helper, faithful and true as the compass to the pole in her work,is dying. . . .

I am leaving tomorrow for Battle Creek. Yet my soul is drawn to the dyinggirl who has served me for the last twenty-five years. We have stood side byside in the work, and in perfect harmony in that work. And when she would begathering up the precious jots and tittles that had come in papers and booksand present it to me, "Now," she would say, "there is something wanted. Icannot supply it." I would look it over, and in one moment I could trace theline right out.

We worked together, just worked together in perfect harmony all the time.She is dying. And it is devotion to the work. She takes the intensity of it asthough it were a reality, and we both have entered into it with an intensity tohave every paragraph that shall stand in its right place, and show its rightwork.

Manuscript 95, 1904, p. 1.

Exhibit 87: Tuesday, March 6, 1906, Sanitarium, California, Ellen Whiteto the Brethren Assembled in Council at Graysville, Tennessee

Dear Fellow Laborers: . . . How many have read carefully Patriarchs andProphets, The Great Controversy, and The Desire of Ages? Iwish all to understand that my confidence in the light that God has givenstands firm, because I know that the Holy Spirit's power magnified the truth,and made it honorable, saying: "This is the way, walk ye in it." In my books,the truth is stated, barricaded by a "Thus saith the Lord."

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The Holy Spirit traced these truths upon my heart and mind as indelibly asthe law was traced by the finger of God, upon the tables of stone, which arenow in the ark, to be brought forth in that great day when sentence will bepronounced against every evil, seducing science produced by the father oflies.

Letter 90, 1906. (Colporteur Ministry, p. 126.)

Exhibit 88: Monday, August 17, 1931, New York City, H. Camden Lacey* toD. E. Robinson

My dear Brother Robinson: In regard to SIGNIFICANT UTTERANCE No. 1 I can saynothing, as I am not the 'prominent S. D. A. minister in Washington, D. C.' whomade that statement.

With reference to the second SIGNIFICANT UTTERANCE you quote, the facts areas follows:--

In 1895, upon my return to Australia from Battle Creek, Michigan Miss MarianDavis urged me repeatedly to help her in editing the MSS for The Desire ofAgesthen under preparation. I put her off as long as I could, as I didnot feel capable of rendering any special assistance, but finally I yielded toher importunities and, after receiving the MSS of certain chapters, I made somesuggestions which she seemed glad to accept. Now I cannot remember any detailsrelative to those suggestions, other than that I have a vivid recollection thatshe seemed anxious to have certain sentences logically connected. We thereforere-arranged some of them, and I have an impression that there was somenecessary rewording done. But I am certain that there was no altering of thethought anywhere.

With reference to the first chapter, I have a more vivid recollection. Iremember that Sr. Davis was greatly worried about it. She did not seem to havesufficient material to fill it out sufficiently well. It was repeatedlyrevised, and I think that Elder W. W. Prescott and Br. E. R. Palmer werefrequently consulted as to its composition. Finally it assumed the form inwhich it now appears in the Desire of Ages.

At the Bible Conference in Washington, D. C. in 1919, during a discussion onthis point of the editing of Sr. White's writings, I said, that in my opinionit would be well for the clarifying of the whole question before the people ifthe fact was clearly stated somewhere (I meant, on the title page or in thepreface) that the Desire of Ages was written by Mrs. E. G. White, and editedby Miss Marian Davis.

I did not use the words quoted 'for she wrote it' (referring to Miss MarianDavis).

I did say that she came to me to get help to prepare the first chapterespecially, as she seemed to be much concerned over its final form.

Hoping these simple statements will be of service in rebutting those whoseem to be persisting in misrepresenting what was really said at the BibleConference referred to, I remain, Sincerely yours in the Faith of thisTruth.

White Estate Document File 52a.

*Elder Lacey was the brother of W. C. White's second wife.

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Exhibit 89: Tuesday, May 22, 1934, W. C. White to Mrs. Maggie H.Bree

For years it was our practice to place in her [Miss Davis'] hands a copy ofevery article sent off for publication and of all principal letters andtestimonies. These she . . . read with avidity, and . . . marked those passagesthat she considered especially useful for the making of chapters for bookswhich she had in contemplation. . . .

Sister Davis had a wonderful memory, and this was of great service in herwork of searching for and grouping together the choicest things that SisterWhite had written regarding Christ in His ministry as a Healer [and] in regardto Christ as an Example of medical missionaries and medical evangelists. . . .

When a goodly number of extracts had been gathered and grouped together aspossible material for chapters, they were read to Sister White. This revivedher memory of the . . . scenes presented to her, and she entered . . . into thework of rewriting many chapters, giving them a fresh touch and greater vigor,also adapting the various passages . . . more fully to the people who wouldread this book. . . .

Time and time again in Sister White's room, was discussed the object and thebest plan for the book--(a) whom the book would serve; (b) how much room shouldbe given to each subject; (c) what was the best relationship of the greatsubjects with which it should deal.

After chapters were thus formed, they were carefully read again by SisterWhite and then submitted to the printer.

W. C. White Correspondence File, White Estate.

Exhibit 90: Friday, July 24, 1936, H. Camden Lacey to an AdventistMinister in New York

The enclosed copy of your amazing letter to Elder W. C. White has beenforwarded to me to answer.

First, let me say unqualifiedly, and as before God as witness, that I nevermade the statement--at any time or to anyone--which you refer to when you say"that Elder Lacey while he was here has been telling various ones that he andnot Sister White is the author of Desire of Ages." I never made such astatement.

Secondly, I gladly and with all my heart accept The Desire of Ages asan inspired book; indeed I regard it as the most spiritual Life of Christ,outside the Gospels, ever given to His Church. In my own Bible, on extra sheetsgummed in at the front and the back, I have scores of extracts taken from thiswonderful book, and from other writings of Sister White. I value them asproducts of the same "Spirit of Prophecy" as indited the Scriptures. Andthousands of my hearers in church and classroom will bear witness to that.

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You ask for "a brief statement of the facts in the case."They are these:

Miss Marian Davis, who was entrusted with the preparation of Desireof Ages, frequently came to me in 1895 and 1896 asking help inthe arrangement of the material which she gathered from Sister White's variousmanuscripts. Sister Davis was a warm personal friend of mine, and I did thebest I knew how to aid her, especially in the first chapter. As I recall it,this help was only in the arrangement of the sentences and paragraphs, or thechoice of a more suitable word. Never at any time, was there any alteration ofthe thought, or the insertion of an idea that was not already expressed in theoriginal text. The resultant "copy" was always submitted to Sister Whiteherself for final approval.

The entire Desire ofAges as it is now printed is, therefore, I hold, the product of SisterWhite's mind and heart, guided by the good Spirit of God. And the "editing" wasmerely technical.

If I mentioned these facts to anyone in New York, it must have been inconsequence of some situation arising like the present--the revival of thatpreposterous rumor dating back to the Bible Teachers' Council of 1919 inWashington, when I was first charged with saying that I had written the book.There was no foundation then or since for such a ridiculous and maliciouscharge.

Further, let me say that so far from belittling or disparaging theTestimonies, I have ever upheld them, and quoted largely from them in my publicministry. It was because of that that the Greater New York Book and Bible Housegave me, for the Temple Church in 1930 an entire set of the writings of SisterWhite; and at the time the gift was made, that thought was expressed by thedonor.

In conclusion, may I ask, Brother C _____, why you did not come to mepersonally when you first heard these rumors which you say you have heard "eversince you came to labor in New York City." We were associated in Christian worktogether for several years in that great center, and there was abundantopportunity for you to come to me as a brother minister and ask for the factsthen. Had you done that, just a kind thing for any Christian to do, thesemalicious rumors would have been strangled at their birth. Has not your failureto do so made you a partner in this misrepresentation?

Some amends may perhaps yet be made by your going at once to each "reporter"and showing him this letter.

I am sending a copy to Elder White, and another copy, with your letter, toElder M. N. Campbell.

White Estate Document File #508. (Written from Loma Linda, California.)

Exhibits Compiled by
Ron Graybill and Robert W. Olson
Ellen G. White Estate
Washington, D. C.
May 23, 1979

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