writes to her mother, telling the good news that they are to live in
lodgings while at Sheffield:--

'You cannot think,' she writes, 'with what joy I look forward to being to
ourselves once more. For though I get literally oppressed with kindness,
I must say I would prefer a home where we could sit down together at our
own little table, myself the mistress, and my husband the only guest. But
the work of God so abundantly prospers that I dare not repine, or else I
feel this constant packing and unpacking and staying amongst strangers to
be a great burden, especially while so weak and poorly. But then I have
many mercies and advantages. My precious William is all I desire, and
without this what would the most splendid home be but a glittering
bauble?'

For several years Mrs. Booth travelled in this way from place to place,
helping, cheering, and encouraging her husband in his soul-saving
campaigns. She felt her duty lay here, and even when she had a little son
to care for, she was unwilling to settle down. Writing to her mother, who
urged her to leave off this trying life; or, at any rate, to hand the
baby over to her, she says:--

'My objection to leaving William gets stronger as I see the need he has
of my presence, care, and sympathy; neither is he willing for it himself.
Nor can I make up my mind to parting with Willie.'

Mrs. Booth's object was to be a help to her husband--not a hindrance; to
push him forward in his soul-saving work--not to hold him back; and
therefore, instead of rejoicing, as most wives and mothers would have
done, when a settled home and work were offered him, she was doubtful.