Having had so many proofs of the power of applied Christian Science, I want to express my gratitude publicly for the privilege of being a follower of Mrs. Eddy.
In February, 1918, I was one of many who crossed the Atlantic for service in France. My service had been strenuous and my physical condition not the best. The crossing was long, and I landed in what might be termed a very weak condition. One day later I was put on board a third-class French coach. There was very little food to be had; and with seven others in one compartment we were unable to lie down. During the first night my companions were roused by finding me in a spasm of hysteria and in great pain. They kindly tried to help, but to no avail. In the morning an army doctor was called, and upon examining me he pronounced the symptoms to be those of spinal meningitis. He stated that I should be moved at the next town in which there was a hospital, and left some pills, which I did not take. I had a great fear of being taken to a hospital, as one of my boat companions had passed on with the same affliction some days before. I knew very little of Christian Science at that time but had faith in it. There was no one to turn to, but I had the assurance that I would be taken care of. When the hospital town was reached I protested at being taken from the train, and told the physician that I was better and could stand the journey. This journey continued for two nights and three days. Upon detraining I was compelled to walk a distance of five miles, and to prove to my superior officer that I could go on, I carried a pack weighing from fifty to sixty pounds. The journey was difficult. Several times I had to be helped after falling. Finally, having arrived in another small town, I was put to bed in a hayloft. Complete exhaustion allowed me to sleep for almost twenty-four hours. When I wakened the terrible pain was gone from my back and head, and my neck, which had been quite badly twisted, was straight. I experienced no further suffering and was pronounced fit.
Many months later, while encamped on the Marne River at a supply depot and ammunition dump, we were in constant danger from enemy night raids. The danger became so great and disaster seemed so near that good-bys were being said in earnest. The ammunition dump had been struck, and general confusion followed, when I suddenly experienced a great sense of peace and found myself repeating aloud the Lord's Prayer. The sudden passing of the danger seemed almost miraculous to others, but I was sure it was through the same power that stilled the turbulent sea at Jesus' command.
