If there has been cases where our sisters have appropriated their tithe to the support of the ministers working for the colored people in the South, let every man, if he is wise, hold his peace. I have myself appropriated my tithe to the most needy cases brought to my notice. Some cases have been kept before me for years, and I have supplied their needs from the tithe, as God has instructed me to do. I do not care to give publicity to this work which the Lord has appointed me to do, and others to do. I send this matter to you so that you shall not make a mistake.
Circumstances alter cases.
I would not advise that any should make a practice of gathering up tithe money. But for years there have now and then been persons who have lost confidence in the appropriation of the tithe who have placed their tithe in my hands, and said that if I did not take it they would themselves appropriate it to the families of the most needy minister they could find. I have taken the money, given a receipt for it, and told them how it was appropriated. I write this to you so that you shall keep cool and not become stirred up and give publicity to this matter, lest many more shall follow their example. In 1896 it was wrong for anyone to appropriate their tithe money, even in the Lord's work.