Handwritten letter from N.D. Pendleton to Bishop William F. Pendleton. No Date. Having just completed his first year in Pittsburgh, Pendleton reflects on the society and his time there. Interest in spiritual things is stronger than expected, and attendance at Sunday services and Wednesday classes has increased. Pendleton made changes to the governing structure in an effort to involve the younger men. Commenting on the general nature of the society, Pendleton writes, “This society is composed of two very distinct elements, which may be termed the old conservative and the young progressive. Both by age, temperament, and inclination I stand between these two, agreeing fully with neither, or rather in some respects with one and in other respects with the other . . . It is much easier, and more gratifying to one’s pride, to side with either one or the other and fight a matter to the finish, but such a course is both against my principles, and my view of what is best, in the long run, for the society.” Despite Pendleton’s best efforts, he is occasionally reminded that “the condition here is such that a very little thing may precipitate a serious contention.” Pendleton continues, “Sometimes a holy war is necessary, but it is a grievous error to dignify every difficulty, in which personality plays the chief part, with such a title. Our history began with, and in, such a “war” and the fascination of it still remains with us.” Pendleton is looking forward to the upcoming Assembly and believes it will be a good opportunity to bring people together by focusing on spiritual enlightenment rather than external matters. Names mentioned: Beatrice (Walton Childs Pendleton), Dr. King