It has been the policy of the United States to acquire territory abroad. Now the question of holding the Philippine Islands is being discussed while the Hawaiian Islands are asking for admission into the Union. In our present condition, these islands seem important to us, and the disposition to hold them seems to be a wise one. It may be that time has come for us to take part in the affairs of the East in order to advance the cause of human freedom. The nations are apprised by arbitrary powers.
Man needs religion also liberty.
The above dates include the records of this volume. It has been written of the first six months of my stay in Clay County. God has wonderfully preserved my health during these months and given me strength to perform my work. He has graciously kept me in peace and enabled me to fight successfully my spiritual adversaries. He has given me some success in winning souls, and I trust that the work of these months will bring a rich fruitage in the months that are to follow.