PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER, December 4, 1913. •

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THE COMING OF THE CHILD.

By Rev. John Bradbury. In this wonderful year of our Lord Christmas comes

as a new-born festival. It is as fresh and as welcome as in those happy childhood days when we believed that with it Santa Claus would surely come. Never did we need to hear the great and grand meaning of Christmastide as in 1913. The Early Church made little of the birth of Jesus, but put emphasis on His death and resurrection. The alive Church of to-day lovingly treasures the stories of the beautiful sim-plicity of Mary of Nazareth, the baffling of Herod of Jerusalem, of the star that would not travel beyond the }T.:lung Christ, of the rustics who found an open heaven above simple duty, and, above all, of the Mighty coming in the helpless, the Eternal One be-coming the Christ of time. The very records are a powerful distemper to old age, the facts are secrets of undying youth. As again we read them, now the time draws near the birth of Christ, it seems as though the shadow of the dial creeps back many a year, and in our hearts the Child again is born.

I. To-day how weary grows the heart of the world,

how jaded and wrinkled are the spirits of men I The people are not living out half their days. " Grey hairs are here and there upon him, but he knoweth it not." The clinging mists of evening are about us while the morning stars sing together, and the sons of God are shouting for joy. Is it because we revel in the shallower rather than in the deeper feelings of the heart ? Life is fast tending to the mechanical, the sensational, the outer. Physical weariness and instability are demanding ever-changing secenery. Spiritual restlessness creates new Gospels. Strange . cries fill the air. We obtain and find we do not attain. But, who can miss the certainty; that be-hind the crowding artificialities of our time the eter-nities are ? They ever ache and cry, and will not be silenced. The Christianity of Christmas is demanded, urgently demanded, by the critical conditions of the present hour. The human heart still leaps up as the angels of heaven and earth proclaim it. It is the Christianity of mystery, of music, of motive-power, of the making of man young with the eternal youth of Christ.

II. What are these voices saying ? Are present-day

events calling aloud for the coming of the Child I The industrial world seethes with discontent. Threatening omens are in the sky. If Christ come not, a revolution, and not a bloodless one, will surely come. The people, at last, are conscious that their chains are off, and onward they move to their rightful throne. Before our eyes is the awakening of a world. The masses have come to the conclusion that the world is too rich and too poor-too poor in life, too rich in ways of living. The sight of artificial, cruel, heartless luxury, and its inhuman apathy to the suffering man that lies at its golden gate, has burnt into the soul of the day, and it flames. Enormous sums are spent for a butterfly existence, and worthless bodies are lavishly deco-rated, while thousands cry for bread. Life must be simplified and equalised. The day of the Child must dawn. Midnight is already past! The Cross begins to bend ! European statesmen should open their eyes to what the coming of the Child means. To-day Europe is heading for bankruptcy. The senseless waste upon weapons of blood is feeding the fires of

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842 THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER DECEMBER 4, 1913

revolution. Diplomacy has failed God and man. It is time the Christ of Christmas had His chance. To read the arrogant programmes of the war-mongers may well make us wonder that God does not arise in swift judgment. But, surely, this Child is set for the rising and the falling of many. War stands con-demned by the common sense and common Chris- tianity of the world. It is a wrong to man, an insult to God. All the labour leaders of Europe condemn it.- The people are determined to make it impossible,. When they reign war will be no more. They but await their Cromwell—will He be the Child ?—and the shame will be swept from the earth. Was ever the quest for happiness as eager as it is to-day ? There are Fausts many who command riches, society, variety, travel, but they cannot corn-mand happiness. Why 7 It is because, as Massing-ham says, " Man is not built that way. He always has some kind of religious eonscieuec which will not permit him to enjoy pleasures save in a measure of commonalty." There is more joy this Christmastide in the lowly manger-cradle than in the glittering court of Herod. When the Child comes we shall go to learn of God and man to the " flower - in the crannied wall," and we shall go to where the children are crying for their Friend.

III. Shall we go even unto Bethlehem, that we may

find the deeper simplicities? " Unto us a child is born." Have we sought a King? We find a Child ! Have we trusted in a system ? We discover that Christianity is Christ! Is our hope still for a king-dom built on might? A little child shall lead them! Without the leadership of the Child the home, the Church, the nation, that shall endure, when stars grow old, cannot be. Into the midst of our feverish, ambitious age God puts a little Child. Has love grown old ? " Whoso hears a chiming for Christmas at the nighest

Hears a sound like angels chanting in their glee, Hears a sound like palm.-boughs waving in the

highest, Hears a sound like ripple of a crystal sea!!

The coming of the Child is the coming of love, love in its sparkle, in its spontaneity, its simplicity. Even old Scrooge is a child again when the angel of Christ-mas comes. How few escape the peril of hardening with the passing years ! The seed of God falls plenteously ! It is not on stony ground it falls; not only on ground fopl with thistles and with thorns, it falls on good ground, but alas! good ground beaten hard by the tramp of innumerable feet. There is an old legend of the goblin horseman whose steed might be heard galloping at midnight. Where the hoofs alighted the grass would never more be green again. But Christmas reverses that. Within us the Child is re-born, and joy and sorrow once again have on their face the dew of the morning. How easily we lose the sense of wonder! With the years of disillusion- ment the angels depart. Grey skies succeed the golden morning. But to the Child the sky is ever golden, life is a dream, every sound is melody.

"Heaven lies about us in our infancy, Shades of the prison-house begin to close Upon the growing boy.".

But 'as we read the religion of Christmas we find again that which was lost. " Great is the mystery of godliness, God manifest is the flesh." It is the mystery of light. It is always morning aboub the throne of God.

IV. The coming of the Child heralds the Church of the

morrow. Its message will be Christ. It is not the angels, or the shepherds, or the star, that will keep either Christmas, or the Church, alive, but the Babe wrapped in swaddling clothes. We have been too busy gazing on the mother and the strange environ-ment of Christianity, but wise men see the Child. Then, warned by God, they go home again, but they go " another way," for the old ways and the old days are done and dead when we have seen God in Christ. Henceforth we preach, Him as the central fact of Christianity. Its life will be simple and free. Re-ligion escaped at Christmas from the conventionalities of men. It sang like a bird. Priests and ritual were forgotten. Behind all creeds and forms, divi-sions and developments, Christmas makes us see the spirit's common quest, common discovery, common worship, and common joy. The revival will arrive in the day when the Church gets back to her New Testament, to the living Gospel story, to the primal simplicities of the spiritual world, and into the openness, the freedom, and rusticity of the first Christmas day.

THE RED AMBASSADOR. On a beautiful spring day the Red Ambassador

brings the Puritan maiden to Whitehall Palace, and the King as homage to the beauty of Priscilla restores to her lover his forfeited commission and estates, much to the chagrin and rage of Bucking.. ham and his horde of bullies.—See Chapter XV. in today's issue.

THE BIBLE AT BENDE.

Visit of Archdeacon Dennis.

By Rev. F. W. Dodds.

Sunday, October 19th, was a day of great things with us here at Bends—joy, for the rendering of the Bible into the no tongue ; gratitude to the Almighty God for the completion of the great work ; practical thanksgiving to the British and Foreign Bible Society, by whose bounty the distribution of the Holy Book at a cheap rate has been made possible. Archdeacon Dennis, of the Church Missionary Society, by whose labour of eight years the work of translation has been chiefly done, represented the Bible Society. The difficulties have been more than usually great, for Ibo, the fourth great language of West Africa, is spoken by almost six millions of people in six dialects and numberless variations as widely different as the Highlands English from modern American. All these had to be collected, collated, compared, and out of the conflicting vocabularies and grammars a unionised version prepared that would be understood of all Ibos from Bonny to Bende, Ungwana to Asaba. The success is astound-ing. Ares, Onitshas, Asabas, Ungwanas, and the dwellers in Akwoga and Abakalliki, and in the parts about Ihubi, all do hear in their own tongue " the wonderful works of God." Add to this that reading sheets, primers, a hymn book, a catechism, a translation of the " Hundred Texts," have also passed through the press and are in wide distri-bution, and we shall be able to realise the amazing character of the Archdeacon's labours.

And yet in not one of these many works does so much as his initials appear ! It is characteristic of the man. Retiring, unassuming, courteous, brotherly, above all spiritually minded and strong, he would forcibly remind one of the apostolic type—" not I, but Christ, be glori-fied." And of him and his good wife, so broad in their Christian sympathies that Wesleyan ordinations, Noncon-formist functions of all kinds, and even a Primitive Methodist Christmas morning service in Bournemouth, have known their presence, what greater recommendation can one give than that we both, my wife and I, remarked how like they were to the early Primitives in evangelistic fervour and spiritual experience. For four days they sojourned with us, and their presence was a benediction.

The Sunday services were a surprise Sand a joy as well as a means of grace. At Ozu Item—four miles of rough, bad, hilly road away—in the morning, and again at Bends in the late afternoon, Mr. Dennis preached upon the " Word" with power and effect, conducting the ser-vices himself in approved Nonconformist style to large congregations. At the former place particularly we were gratefully surprised to receive a collection of thirteen shillings and five pence and one yam. I congratulated the people, not forgetting to say, however, like a good Primi-tive, that the time was not yet past if anybody felt he had not sufficiently estimated the occasion and had more at home he would like to give. But immediately, as by a preconcerted signal, from every part of the church people got up and thronged to the front bearing what they called a special thankoffering. Shillings, " sissies" (sixpences), " torras " (threepenny bits), and pennies rained on the table for a moment or two, and behold! the last was greater than the first—namely, fourteen shillings and ninepence. There was another good collection at the Bende Ibo service.

In the evening, in accordance with my usual custom, we held a service for " foreigners," young Government clerks, etc., not native§ of the Ito country, but who understood English passably. This again Mr. Dennis took, but, as some of the " foreigners" were members of Anglican churches elsewhere, worship took the form of the Holy Communion service of the Church of England. Mr. Dennis preached again a heart-to-heart sermon on Bible study, and, after a splendid collection, administered the elements of the Lord's Supper. Truly can we say that "the power of the Lord was present," and that "our hearts burned within us." Even here in bush-wrapt Bends we met with our Lord by the way.

And so this brotherly man left us, our blessings and our prayers speeding him on his long journey among the churches, bearing as our thankoffering four pounds six shillings and threepence, a sum we had not conceived it possible to raise the half of. But he left more than he took, a new courage for our work, a new hope in its speedy triumph, a new resoluteness to confront the never-ending obstacles of a hostile heathenism with an uplifted cross, the array of pagan demons with the pure and gentle Christ. Soon may He reign triumphant over all!

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VISITATION OF SCHOLARS' HOMES.

Delightful Results.

By Rev. W. Spedding. It is impossible to tabulate all the results of the recent

visitation of scholars' homes. They have exceeded our most sanguine expectations and more than justified the scheme. Many hundreds of schools participated in the effort, and from. every part of the country there have come to hand reports of striking and encouraging results. In some centres remarkable scenes of interest and enthusiasm have been witnessed. A pile of letters lie before me, all of which reveal the spiritual tone and success of the work. It has been a real labour of love, and one crowned with great and unspeakable blessing. Schools and homes have been more intimately linked up ; hosts of parents have been brought to the public services of the church who were never known to be present before, and many are continuing to attend ; many old scholars have been reclaimed ; the spiritual life of a great many churches has been deeply stirred ; large numbers or teachers have been moved to greater interest and earnest-ness in their work ; a living sympathy has been created between church and people ; in many places numbers of young people have been converted, and altogether a wave of spiritual revival has passed over the schools that gave themselves thoroughly to the task. They have been amply compensated for any effort and sacrifice made. This page might be filled with such testimonies, and from every quarter of Sunday-school activity. Some of them read like religious romance and breathe the spirit of a new life. We give one which cannot fail to stir the heartflof all toilers for the good of the young.

A Notable Testimony. One of our most distinguished and cultured ministers,

whose writings are known in all the churches, writes :-" I think I ought to tell you of the success of our young people's days. The teachers agreed to do as you asked, namely, make a personal visit to all the homes of the scholars. In addition, they decided to invite the parents to a combined meeting with the O.E. on the Thursday evening. The work must have been well done, because we had the schoolroom full for the meeting. Many parents attended, fathers and mothers coming with their children. Some of these parents come only sometimes, some indeed only at long intervals. We had a most marvellous meeting, full of the Spirit of God. I con-ducted the services, and addresses were given by Miss — to the young people on conversion, and by Messrs. — to the parents. The next day I called to see these parents who had attended, and found a most ready response to our invitation. Several promised to attend our services in the future, some promised to come to the C.E., and others definitely joined the church. We hal another meeting of the teachers and made arrangements for Decision Day. I never remember a finer teachers' meeting. Each teacher was to speak to his or her own scholars. Splendid work must have been done, because the results were fine. In the Senior Class of lads eight of them signed the cards, five of them came to the com-munion service at night. The next night, Mr. G. and I met the juniors who had signed, and a fine time we had. Now, on Tuesday last we had another meeting of the teachers to see what further could be done. It was decided that each quarter, in addition to the regular visiting, each teacher should visit the homes of their own scholars, and we are having a quarterly joint meeting with the parents. What pleased me best was the fact that all these suggestions came from the teachers them-selves, and all took up this spiritual work in the heartiest way. The school is crowded to the doors, and every part of the premises has to be utilised. I thought I ought to tell you of this. These parents who came that first night have been at the church every Sunday evening since, and some to the GE."

The perusal of a letter like this is heartening in the fullest measure, and discloses the secret of successful Sunday-school work. The homes of our scholars present a magnificent constituency for immediate and aggressive work to all the churches.

Results must not be Lost! Great and happy as are these results, we must earnestly

see that they are not lost to the Church. Visitation must be regular and systematic, and the ingathering to church fellowship must be watchfully and tenderly conserved. Young life is fragile and delicate, and needs much of spiritual care and nurture. The Secretary of the Leeds Church Council writes :—" You will be pleased to hear that the report on the simultaneous visitation of 'scholars was so delightful that the Council is urging all schools to repeat the visit at least annually." Speaking of the special meeting for parents, said a sturdy village parent to the writer : " I was never in all my life in a better meeting." Will all the schools who did not share in the visitation scheme still try a special week for themselves/ •

"Reminiscences : Thomas H. Bainbridge." Edited by Gerald France. (Charles H. Kelly. ls. net.)

This is the life story of the late Thomas H. Bainbridge, of Newcastle, one of the best known and one of the most beloved laymen in the Wesleyan Church. Mr. Rain-bridge was a successful business man who put first things first. He was a man with a big heart, wide sympathies, an attractive personality. He made his own place in thousands of lives. As a local preacher, a class leader, and a large employer he obeyed the injunction, "Let your light so shine before men that they may see your good works and glorify your Father which is in heaven." This little book, by Mr. Bainbridge's son-in-law, is a worthy memorial of a beautiful life. No one can read it without receiving stimulus from a gracious personality.

W. M. K.

tstet1VIBEit 4, 1913 tHE PRIMITIVE METHODIST THE CORRESPONDENCE OF

PROF. A. S. PEAKE, M.A., D.D.

BEownr.,r sends a letter which is too long to quote, the gist of which must be gathered from the reply : —

(a) Driver's " Introduction to the Old Testament " is, of course, our standard work on the subject, but twenty-two years have elapsed since it was published, so that it would not be advisable to buy a copy of the first or second edition, published in 1891 at 4s. 6d. The sixth edition was published in 1897, and, in order to take account of the work done in the meantime, the book was not only revised but was set up in type afresh. The seventh edition was prepared the following year, and. was four times,leprinted. The eighth edition, again revised, was published in 1909. This was-,not set up afresh in type, but alterations and additions were introduced on. the stereotyped plates. Dr.

• Driver wrote to me recently to say that the ninth edition is on the eve of publication. The best thing would be to buy this when it appears. It will cost you 9s., and is a much better bargain at that price than the first edition at 4s. 6d. If, however, you wish to buy a second-hand copy you should not buy any edition earlier than the sixth, though the eighth would be preferable ; but its price is not likely to be much below the price of a new copy. You might, however, find that Dr. Gray's " Critical Introduction to the Old Testament" would serve your purpose for the time being.

(b) You are right in thinking that the volume on Exodus in the Cambridge Bible is by Dr. Driver. It is an especi-ally good and thorough piece of work, and very cheap.

(c) There are several books on the Apostolic Age which include a discussion of the inner life in the churches, and, of course, there are some books which deal with the special questions about which you ask. The work by Dobschutz to which you refer, " Christian Life in the Primitive Church," is a solid volume which I have pleasure in recommending. The chief histories of the Apostolic Age are those by Weizsacker, McGiffert, Bartlet and Ropes, and to these should be added Plieiderer's " Primitive Christianity " and Wernle's " The Beginnings of Chris-tianity." Weizsacker's is a massive and brilliant work, but while its handling of the material in the Epistles is beyond praise, the too sceptical treatment of the. Acts of the Apostles is a serious defect. McGiffert's is an able piece of work, not comparable in brilliance to Weizsacker, but often, I think, nearer the historical truth. Bartlet's work is briefer than these, and it is very fresh and stimu-lating. The author occasionally goes ways of his own where I cannot follow him. Ropes's volume is good and briefer still, and is sometimes to be bought quite cheaply. Pfleiderer's " Primitive Christianity " is a comprehensive work, written with the wide range, the lucidity and the skill in handling, and presenting the material for which he has long been famous. • Wernle writes with a singular glow and enthusiasm, but in a slashing style, more brilliant than cautious, and with a thorough-going dis-like of theology. Weizsacker, Pfleiderer and Wernle all belong to the left wing, and should be read with this in mind. On the Government of the Church there is a large literature. You will find a good treatment in Principal Lindsay's " The Church and the Ministry in the Earlier Centuries " ; also in Schmiedel's article " Ministry " in the " Encyclopedia Biblica." An older discussion, but still of great value, is the dissertation by Lightfoot on " The Christian Ministry " in his Commentary on Philippians. This was reprinted in the volume of " Dissertations " collected from the Commentaries, and, I believe, has more recently been issued in an independent volume. Hatch's " Bampton Lectures " are, of course, famous, and opened a new era in the discussion of the subject. I think highly also of Hort's " Christian Ecclesia." You might find it well to look into Dr. San-day's volume just, published, " The Primitive Church and Reunion." It contains useful references to further litera-ture.

(d) " Chambers' Enclyclopedia " can be cordially re-commended. It is often possible to buy it fairly cheaply second-hand if you are content to take the edition which dates back into the nineties, but it is much better to deny yourself other books and buy the latest edition, which you should remember is extraordinarily cheap. I have not used "Everyman's Encyclopedia " and cannot speak as to.its quality. Have you seen the one volume encyclopedia published by Messrs. Jacks ? It contains about 1,600 pages, and is issued at the amazingly cheap price of 7s. 6d. net. The only complete Browning I know is that in two volumes, published at 15s. I have had no occasion to look into Everyman's edition. On this you should consult a bookseller. " The Ring and the Book " was published in 1869. Browning died twenty years later, and in the in-terval he wrote much, and much of this was important.

R. T. V.—Assuming that you believe in a progressive hereafter, would you give me your reasons for doing so ?

We have little light on the conditiOns in the future life, and it is probable that they could not be made intelligible to us on our present plane of .existence. Everything then which can be said that goes beyond generalities must be 'tentative, but all I am able to say on the particular point you raise is that any other conception of the future is to me quite inconceivable. I could not imagine that every-thing would be flashed upon us all at once ; while, on the other hand, it is out of the question that we remain in the next world as we are in this. I look forward to growth and attainment, intellectual growth and moral growth, both in the capacity to achieve and the achieve-ment itself. It seems to me .a rather futile subject for discussion. If one cannot see that it is so without having -it argued for, it is a question whether any argument will do much good.

Anratla S. PnitE. Gairloch,. Freshfield, near Liverpool.

MILL PRIMITIVE METHODISM.

Future Development.

By Our Special Correspondent.

Two maxims of military tactics are applicable to churches—." When in doubt go forward " and " The line of advance is the way of safety." In religious activities past gains can only be conserved by a forward policy and continued aggression. Our fathers won by daring and abandon, and if we can in fuller measure recover these, great things will still be achieved in this city. The most gratifying feature to report is the passing of despondency and the growth of a more hopeful spirit. In every circuit there are signs of better times. New enterprises are in view or old burdens are being lightened. A brief survey will indicate this.

The First circuit has been necessitated to withdraw from West-street, and the famous old sanctuary has been sold. The residue, after paying liabilities (nearly £1,000), is to be used to assist the Perth-street scheme. In this latter district there is one of the finest openings in the city. The best site in a populous-growing neighbourhood has been secured and a temporary school-chapel erected. The circuit made this its Centenary effort, and although the high. hopes of the opening have not been realised, there is the ultimate prospect of a strong church, and old West-street will have aided substantially, both by money and workers. Jubilee and , Ebenezer are each maturing £500 schemes of debt reduction, and this year should see this accomplished. The only opening for the Second Circuit is in the Clough-road area, and a site of land has been reserved here ; but the development of the neighbourhood has been retarded, and nothing furthei has yet been done. Clowes and Lincoln-street are in districts not likely to become easier to work, but the former is bravely facing a reduction of its debt, and the latter has been doing better and the workers are cheered. Fountain-road, having provided for its young people, is holding its own, despite the attractions of a large mission built within a stone-throw, and is one of the strongest churches in the city. The Third Circuit is facing its responsibilities. Holderness-road has the largest membership in the city. The financial strain has been heavy, but a quickened interest is manifest. Bethesda has achieved the most striking financial success of any of the city churches in this past decade. Nearly £6,000 has been raised, a sub-stantial school-chapel erected, and good work done in school and church. The next few years should see the completion of the building scheme, and with the erection of the chapel a still greater development should ensue. Sutton is another problem for this circuit. Before long it will be within the city, and now is growing as a resi-dential district. The church has been graciously blessed and numbers of young folk won, but the chapel, as a building, is quite inadequate for modern needs, and the position will have to be frankly faced if the work is to' extend and the call of the growing population to be met.

The Fourth Circuit has its own peculiar difficulties. Great Thornton-street was seriously affected by the open-ing of a big mission in the same street, but the tide has turned and the outlook is more promising. The chapel is being remodelled, and the question of school accommoda-tion is urgent. Probably no church does more evangelistic work than this ; the band meeting and open-air mission are living forces, and the old spirit of fervent evangelism seems to be growing. Hessle-road has had a great financial struggle. The debt is being steadily reduced, but the strain prevents the fullest spiritual work of which it is capable. The loyalty and sacrifice shown are highly commendable, and the way opens for wider ministries. Brighton-street is growing, and if a suitable property could be erected on a front position, this church would serve, not only its immediate locality, but in large measure the new populous district on the Hessle-road, which is altogether without a Free Ohurch. Boerne, the head of the Fifth Circuit, is the largest church in the city. Its debt of £3,500 was cleared by a legacy from Mr. Norman. This has provided a way of escape from financial responsibility. Serious losses of leaders by removal and death and divided counsels have made the work difficult, but the situation is more hopeful, and undoubted possibilities of great usefulness are present. St. George's-road has an active society and school, and numbers in both departments Ire increasing. Hessle Centenary Church is a memorial of vigorous service. A splendid position and property, the church is doing well, and the opening for ser-vice is one of the best in the city circuits. The Norman Memorial Church, Hawthorn-avenue, is a pro-mising venture. Again-, first hopes have not been realised, but the site is an excellent one, and the school-church a good one. Mrs. Norman gave £1,000 at the beginning, and Mrs. G. Ellis, by a generous promise of £1,000, has stimulated the church to an effort which will reduce their debt £1,400,.and leave but £500 consolidated debt. A new church is the ultimate end, and great service should follow. Further, Anlaby is growing, and projected exten-sion of the city will take it in. Here our little chapel was closed for years, now it has an active society, and the future should see a site secured and a larger chapel built.

This circuit, in proportion to the value of its properties, has the least trust liabilities, and in future extension should be able to render generous circuit aid.

The sixth circuit has had a trying experience in the ill-ness of several of its ministers, and this has had its in-fluence on the work. Williamson-street, one of the results of Mr. H. Hodge's liberality, stands in a district which has depreciated. One of our largest chapels, with a loyal folk, it has a stiff struggle. The removal of in-fluential workers has told heavily. Its story of evangel-ism is a fine one, and may again be -repeated. Iledon-

road is unfortunately on a road which can only have houses on one side, and consequently the limitation is great. Portobello, the -outcome of Mr. and Mrs. E. Robson's thought and gift, is well placed, but the build-ing of ether churches in the district will make the work' more trying. Land has been secured for school extension, and the Hull tradition of securing a commanding site has been wisely followed. Worked practically as a pastorate this church should' sacceect. The seventh circuit in its two churches is moving. Lambert-street is facing its debt, and Cottingham has enlarged the chapel.

This recital shows the material development, actual and prospective; and indicates considerable progress. The problem is to secure a corresponding numerical advance and an intenser spiritual life.

An earnest, serious evangelism is needed. Sensa-tional methods have had their day, and the efficacy of the regular ministry should be realised. The idea of a special agent as necessary to win men is unworthy, and expectancy should mark every service. " The man in the street " must be sought, but, even more, the young life in the schools must be kept. With 9,285 scholars and 886 teachers triumphs can be won. School wlsrk must be fostered, and the young people's activities *ion for the Church. Carping criticism of the young should cease, and sympathetic recognition be made of their aims, their work and play. The church is no place for the antagonism of age and youth. The-careful suggestions of the District Committee, especially the emphasised plea for personal dealing, point the way to success. Lapses and losses can be made up here, and from our young folk must be W011

the future leaders. Here is our great responsibility and our great hope. In some societies the class meeting nos lost grievously both in numbers and power. ' The union of classes and varied- forms of meeting—each leader re-taining responsibility for his own members—would in many cases, create a new sense of fellowship.

A definite lead is required for future development. The Church Council some years ago sought to give this, hut has failed. Circuit independence often prevents united action, but the time has surely some when some repre-sentative body should be formed to act as an advisory board, and to assist in hopeful situations. The Wes-leyans have done much by circuit enterprise, and the re-duction of debts, growth of circuit feeling and connexional loyalty make it possible for our circuits to do more in the future. The growth of the city offers new openings, and only a strong and concerted policy can secure best results. Leadership is one imperative need, in the local church, in civic matters, and in the wider interests of the kingdom. Hull has lost heavily in the removals and death of many active and enthusiastic workers, and it is not easy to fill the gaps thus made. The way to it (and to the solution of all our problems) is in greater personal devotion. One veteran contrasted the old and new times. In chapels, ministers, teachers and moral tone he praised the modern times, but the old had striking gains in its spiritual intensity and realisation of personal respon-sibility. " Directly a man was won for God, he became a soul-winner." This sense of personal responsibility is our deepest need, and out of it would grow a realisation of the urgency of the message, an ardent spirit, aggressive work, and whole-souled abandon, and leaders would be trained. The machinery is to hand—the real need is power—the effective compelling force of the spirit. We wait for the vision.

Letters of a Bookman. "A Bookman's Letters." By Sir W. Robertson Nicoll,

(Hodder and Stoughton. 4s. 6d. net.) This book contains a delightful selection of the arrest-

ing letters of " Claudius Clear," which for long years have been such an outstanding feature of the " British Weekly," to which has been added contributions from leading English and American Reviews. The nineteenth century is the period chiefly surveyed, and the value of many of the references and judgments passed in the letters arises from the personal knowledge of the writer of the subjects under discussion. The letters deal freely with the giants of the age, for biography is his favourite form of reading, and he gives in his irresistible manner insight into character and life. Take Meredith, with his " kindliness of heart, penetration and singular nobleness of character," his great gifts as a conversa- tionalist. Is a- finer tribute possible than this : His life was as noble and stainless and simple as his books " ? Again, he says Emerson was " much more than an intellec-tual leader, he was and is the spiritual- guide el .many thousands." He taught that " the fountain of inspiration was still flowing." With regard to his style, he quotes with approval Bronson Alcott, who said " his power is a poet's, not a logician's." "lie states, pictures , and sketches, he does not reason." Then five letters are devoted to " Mark Rutherford," and give a fine picture of this Puritan among men of letters, describing the charm of his style. " His words perfectly fitted his thought," " a style translucent in its simplicity and yet incapable of any amendment." His picture of Dissent was not,only with knowledge but insight.

" Claudius Clear" illuminates. every subject he handles, whether it be " The Six Best Biographies," " Lord Rose-bery's Literary Method," " Learning to Read," or " The Eight Ways of 'Reviewing." The range is astonishingly varied ; nothing appears to come amiss to him. The secret of this is that he has been a voluminous reader since childhood, he was the son of a great bookman, and to-day confesses that reading has been the chief pleasure of his life, and is stranger now than ever. In addition to his gifts as' a bookman, he is a journalist, which means that his finger is ever on the pulse of the public, his feet are on solid earth, and his eyes look not merely on pages of letters, but into the eyes of man. Two of his excellent judgments are here passed along ; they deserve to be remembered : —" Taste in literature is acquired before twenty." " The mastering of a sweat writer enriches, fructifies, and expands the mind more than any other discipline." " C.

844

THE PRIM(` IVE MEtHODISt LgAIAR, DECtMBEit, 4, 191

My first recollections of a missionary deputation date back to the days when I wore knickerbockers and went to bed at eight o'clock at night—content in the thought that God and my elders could manage the world without me during the night, but that I must be at hand early the next morning lest anything should go wrong in my absence. Great was the excitement, and greater the antici-pation, when it was announced that a real live missionary was coming to our village to give an address on his work in the South Seas. I had never seen a missionary, but I had an impression that he was a kind of man with wings just budding and a halo round his brow.

If I had ever been called upon to give a classification of the human race at that time in the order of its importance it would have been something like this :-

(1) Myself. (2) Missionaries. (3) Kings and emperors. (4) Robber chiefs and pirateL (5) Nonconformist ministers. (6) Soldiers and policemen. (7) All other folks ; except (8) Schoolmaster—especially our own. My joy at the coming of the missionary was a little

subdued by the fact that he was not Our missionary, but belonged to the London Missionary Society, and was to speak not in our chapel but in the Congregational Church.

It gave the " Independent " boys such a chance to swag-ger. But you cannot have everything. The winter before we had a black man conducting a mission for us, and we got a good innings then. He was black, too ; not a dirty brown like the nigger they had at the show in the fair, whom it was discovered afterwards was only " faked," being stained with furniture polish, which came off in the wear.

And, besides, we had a card up our sleeve. The Presi-dent of the Conference had engaged to come to our school anniversary in the following May, and we promised our-selves " a swelling time " • for two months before that event, and three months after, for it was the first time that a really great dignitary of any Church had visited the illage. So we listened to what was said of the missionary

and joined in the eager anticipation of his visit. I was disappointed when the meeting night came to find

that he was not a tall, heroic looking man—for I had an idea that all missionaries should be tall, and have the lines of high purpose stamped upon their brow. He was small and spoke in a weak, apologetic kind of voice. But soon he enthralled his audience, and the immediate effect on me was that I wanted to start off next morning to the South Sea Islands. That was clearly impossible, but I did the next best thing. I asked for a missionary box and became a collector. I can truly say my interest in mis-sions has never waned since.

I sometimes wonder whether returned missionaries realise the tremendous opportunity given them when they address assemblies of children. This leads me to affirm that every Sunday-school ought to have its foreign missionary anniversary, apart from the adults, and should have the very best d"eputation that cart' be found. For your real missionary is caught young. The Moravians teach their scholars that no one can be a Christian with-out taking an interest in missions, and the result is that nearly five per cent. of their members volunteer for missionary service. But I am wandering wide of the pur-pose of my article, which is to give an account of mission-ary deputations I have heard since, wise and otherwise.

Let me give expression to the faith that is within me, that wherever possible the deputation should be a returned missionary, for though I have long since learned very regretfully that missionaries are like other men, and after sleeping with a few of them, can avouch that their wings are in so elementary a stage as to be imperceptible to the naked eye, yet they are as other men, plus that special knowledge which comes from experience, and they can speak as having authority and not as circuit ministers. The old hymn says :-

"What we have felt and seen With confidence we tell."

Failing the returned missionary, the deputation should be a missionary enthusiast. Fire kindles fire. " Send us no half hearts," ' was Gordon's message from Egypt. And no man ought to go as a deputation but who would be prepared to go himself to the foreign field if circumstances would allow. Your half-hearted deputation is worse than useless on the missionary platform. One deputation advised the people to give what they could afford, but to remember that their chapel anniversary was coming in a fortnight and that charity begins at home. (He was going to that circuit in the following July.) Think of it ! As if any congregation in Methodism ever needed to be re-minded of the chapel anniversary at a -missionary meet-ing. As for that stale old adage about "charity," it was born in a selfish heart, and has served the devil's purpose long enough, and ought to be buried and forgotten, for Christian charity begins where there is the greatest need, and has all the world for its home.

But even the returned missionary 'Sometimes does not make an ideal deputation. Indeed, I have heard them when I have felt like—well, like the Member of Parlia-ment who won the only immortality he is ever likely to earn by flinging a book at the head of the Lord of the Admiralty in the House of Commons. There it is down and must remain. What I have written I have written. I have listened to men who were as " cram " full of interest-ing facts as Mark Twain's celebrated Jumping Frog was with shot, but, instead of relating them, they have given eloalrent addresses on the " Philosophy of Missions,"

The Relation of Mohammedanism to Christianity," or

on " The Difference between Buddhism and Con-fucianism." " Hug your facts," says Emerson, and they do so tightly that they do not part with them. Tell your facts, brethren, for the people are hungry to know them. We who remain at home can make speeches on compara-tive religion, and we can all philosophise more or less about Christianity ; indeed, I am not sure whether we cannot beat you at it ; but when we come to " the glorious humdrum " of missionary life, we are all secondhand reciters, while you have the knowledge first hand. " Oh! I hate to talk about myself," said one whom I ventured to criticise because he had teased and tormented an audience, hungry for facts, by giving a speech on the " Origin and Development of Secret Societies Among Native Africans." My dear good brother, while I admire your modesty, I do not admire your common sense. No sane person will accuse you of egotism in saying what you are put up to say. You can be as humble as you like, and eliminate the personal pronoun from your speeches as much as you wish, but do tell us what the Gospel of your Master is doing for the heathen. We are eager to learn whether in the heart of the black there is room for the White Christ.

It is only fair, however, to say that these speeches to which I allude have been the exception. What magnifi-cent utterances I have listened to from the men whose greatest speech was their life ! Speeches on fire—simple, earnest, unaffected—the speeches that make converts and make big collections. I have heard Gladstone, and John Bright, and Balfour, and many others whose names stand for eloquence in politics. I heard Dr. Parker and Talmage and many other great preachers of former days, but the most soul-stirring utterance I have heard from mortal lips was given by a returned missionary, who simply told in an artless way how he won a heathen tribe to Christ.

But, unfortunately, all the deputation work cannot be done by returned missionaries, and hence there is need for enlisting the advocacy of the home ministers. Some of these make splendid deputation ; some do not. My first experience of the latter class came early in my ministerial life. The deputation had been invited before I went to the circuit, the reason assigned for the invitation being that lie was near and would cost little. Cheap things are nearly always dear. I know a circuit who invited a minis-ter because he was willing to go for £20 a year less stipend than the man they had. In three years he cost them £500 in comparison with his predecessor and lost half the congregation. Our cheap deputation mentioned missions twice in four speeches. He did not even know where our missions were, for when I asked him he answered in an offhand manner, " Oh ! they are somewhere in Africa." He did not even know the names of the men who were then on the field. He spoke one night on the " Inspira-. tion of the Scripture," on another he demolished " Evolu-tion," on the third he attacked Agnosticism, and on the fcurth he gave us a hash of the three speeches. He had one anecdote he told every night, and the same peroration did twice over. Our people had little missionary enthusiasm before the meetings, and he killed what they had. We were down in our collections, and, what was worse, next year were woefully down in our boxes. Never invite a deputation in order to save a few shillings in railway fare.

I was once " co-dep." with a brother who gave the same speech three nights in succession. It was a decent, second-rate speech, three-quarters of an hour long. Before the end of the week I was dead tired of that speech, and so were the circuit ministers. On the fourth night I asked to be allowed to speak first, and I deliberately took his speech and gave the points in it in my own language. But he just blinked his eyes and gave it over again, and the strange thing was the people did not seem to discern the trick I had played him. Just think of it ! The whole field of Christian missions to rove over and yet only one poor, attenuated speech. That experience opened my eyes to a surprising fact—viz., that a number of ministers never read missionary literature. It would vitalise many a lifeless sermon if all ministers kept in touch with the advance guard of the army of Christ and told their people of victories won and new territory conquered for Him. Every captain of the Lord's host should know what the other battalions are doing. News from the front should be reported constantly. Perhaps there is nothing that will be so great a burden to us when we face our Master as to lay our missionary sermons and speeches before him. They will be a revelation of the measure of our interest in the coming of His Kingdom. Another deputation we had gave missionary speeches, but never mentioned Primitive Methodist Missions. They were in-stiuctive and interesting, but, so far as we are con-cerned, we might never have sent a single missionary to the foreign field. Just fancy a politician addressing an election meeting and talking about the politics of America and France and Germany, but never mentioning Great Britain I

The missionary meeting should be the liveliest, largest, and best meeting of the year. The choir should be in-vited, the local preachers should be there, and the class leaders gyred the Sunday-school teachers. In these days when we are seeking out for a new test of membership, I am not sure whether attendance at the missionary meet-ing might not be adopted. Then if the meeting is in the winter time the chapel should be heated. I have been at missionary meetings when the only appropriate hymn was " Greenland's icy mountains," and the people have been frozen from their feet upwards to the pocket. Give the deputation a chance. A missionary speech should be thrice prepared and five times prayed over, for the deputa-tion is, indeed, the King's ambassador, and deals with Imperial interests. No, that old District meeting speech, even with a new introduction, will not do. The only speech worth having on a missionary platform comes red

hot from a heart all aflame with zeal, and old speeches, like old stoves, let out the heat. A quaint old friend of mine says, " Sermons and speeches are like eggs ; if they are laid by they always-taste of the lime." Every mis-sionary speech should be like a fresh bulletin from the field of battle. It should be short, up to date, and tell of victory, for this is the day of missionary conquest. Everywhere the gates of the nations are opening to the Christ. A new era is dawning. Before the end of the twentieth century the world ought to be at His feet. Every Christian sees the flaming Cross in the sky, and its heartening motto, "By this go up and conquer."

THE WAY OF AMBITION.

By Rev. H. J. Taylor.

Robert Hitchens has just written a book on this sub-ject. An ambitious woman diverts the talents of her husband until, after some disasters, she discovers that the only thing worth while is to let him follow his bent. That way lies happiness and success. It is a universal story. It has limitless applications, physical, mental, professional, and many others. Talking the matter over with a friend led to the observation that many people who gain prosperity pass from the little chapel to the fashionable church, or from Nonconformity to the Established Church. Mr. Lloyd George recently spoke of these at the Baptist Union Meetings. The curse of life was snobbery. The best cure for it was the little village chapel. A well-dressed man' whose circumstances were prospering who could regularly go to the little red-bricked place of worship was cured of snobbery.

But the wider issue remains. Do those who tread the way of ecclesiastical ambition find peace ? According to Mark Rutherford, Catherine Furze did not. Observation confirms this testimony. Young people of Methodist ancestry marry and continue their attendance at the church of their parents. A few years sweep by. The man makes his way, moves into a larger house. It is in a fashionable suburb. His neighbours are of the "upper" set. They attend " church." They are the chief people in local functions. The clergyman is the centre of the group. Attendance at "church" is the only sure way of social recognition. Why not take it ? The chapel has drawbacks—debts, change of ministers, occasional fric-tion. No one who is anyone attends. Personal circum-stances improve, political considerations acquire influence, and one day, perhaps with a further change of residence, the great step is taken—the chapel is left for the church. This is a daily piece of ecclesiastical history. Whether or not the circumstances supply justification, justification is not now in debate. The only point raised is whether this way of ambition secures what is sought. Does it bring peace of mind, social comfort, utility in life, and soul growth I In almost every sense the answer is in the negative on every one of these counts.

The so-called " church " does not give open arms to chapel renegades. The people who were " somebodies" in Methodism are suspected " nobodies " in Anglicanism. Unless they are more prosperous than their new friends and more generous they do not count, and even if they are, their new associates are too conscious of their past, and too uncertain of their future, to make much fuss of them. And as for peace of mind ! "Why did you leave Nonconformity ?" I once asked a prosperous man. He had been brought up a Methodist, and had passed on to the Church of England. "Do you want me to tell you? " he inquired. " Yes." " Well," he blurted out, " because I could not stand the preaching." That was the truth. The preaching got home to his conscience, and he winced. Instead of mending his ways he changed his church. His new preachers, the ordinary clergyman and his curate, mumbled platitudes, and my acquaintance sat through the ten minutes' sermon with undisturbed conscience. But was he at peace? Was he happy ? Had he found any enrichment of manhood I Had he entered on any in-creased usefulness to his day and generation? There is only one answer. What soul he ever had is withered or dead. What of his family? How did they fare under the new regime ? The story is without bright tints. It wends its way in sombre hues and with moral darkness.

In contrast with all this stand the countless instances in which prosperous Methodists have remained loyal to their Church, and thereby found all that hearts could desire—peace, usefulness, character, respect and love. Names could easily be mentioned. Every county in Eng-land has its example. Our Church is singularly rich in such men and women. They are rightly honoured by all who know them, and their children rise up to call them blessed. It may not be invidious to mention the beloved L. L. Morse, so recently gone from us. His loyalty won for him the profound respect of every other denomination, and when his dust was carried to " God's Acre" the towns-people gave him one of the largest funerals they have ever witnessed. By the graves of our dead we see the pathway of life.

Aged Local Preachers' Fund. Sin,—May I be permitted to call the attention of your

readers to an advertisement in your pages notifying the intention of the Committee of the Aged Local Preachers' Aid Fund to send, as in former years, a Christmas gift to all those on the permanent list. These are seventy-five years of age at least. The gift is a real help, always gives great pleasure, and breaks in upon what is often a monotonous life, and in extreme need is quite a godsend. We have a larger number entitled to the gift than for many years past, and therefore appeal to friends to help the needy -and deserving brethren- and sisters througll this fund. Donations will be gladly received by the treasurer, Mr. J. Skinner, 10, Beacon Hill, Camden road, N., or by—Yours, etc., GEORGE Taxman.

59, Howley-road, Croydon.

Our Missionary Deputation. By KENNETH WOODFLEET.

DECEMBER 4. 1013 THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. 845

The Inset for Primitive Methodist Magazines is "The Home Messenger."

Those who Localise it say it is the Best.

We know it is the most successful.

Compare it with other Insets and see what you think.

The Church Magazine. By Rev. J. T. BARK BY.

Experience teaches—and is there any better teacher ?-that the Church magazine is one of the best means of reaching non-churchgoers and providing a second pulpit for the minister from which he can reach thousands who might never come within sound of his voice. It is, besides, an excellent advertising medium for the Church

It will, of course, be said that this means money. So it does, but not to the Church if it be properly worked. It may even be, and in many cases is, a source of church revenue.

The first thing to do is to, select the inset, and to this we gave much thought. The inset is the backbone of the magazine, and as we were determined that our magazine should be the best possible, we must have the best possible

An Unrivalled Inset.

inset. We secured samples of several, and, after careful consideration, fixed on the Home Messenger. For its

interestingness, its up-to date-ness, the range, variety and quality of its articles and stories, the character of its contributors, the paper on which it is printed, and its numerous and beautiful illustrations, it surpassed anything

offered us. And the choice always gave us great satisfaction.

Our readers were so interested in it, that if for some reason or other they missed getting it, they would sometimes send for it. Some who removed from the neighbourhood left money for it to be posted to them. That was my experience at Nelson. I have found the same elsewhere, and do to-day, for as an inset the Home Messenger is my first and only love.

By the Editor of the " Primitive Methodist Leader."

The Home Messenger continues on its progressive career, even more successfully than ever. After a careful perusal of the magazine we can only express our admiration of the aptitude of the Editor, which amounts to genius, in providing for the ever-changing and various needs of the people within the Churches, and of those who are outside. The circulation

of the Home Messenger is in itself one of the greatest

testimonies to its value. More than 300,000 copies a

month are required to meet the great deman is of the

Churches, and this circulation is ever upward in its

tendency. It is at this season of the year, when Churches

are face to face with their winter's work, that they feel

the need for some localised magazine, some egency that

will render them assistance. Here they have it, inexpensive,

effective, artistic in every respect. Churches seeking a maga-

zine to localise should not fail to see the Home Messenger. As

a magazine for localising by Churches, it stands out as most

attractive in form and matter. There is no better magazine

for the purpose.

Now is the time to arrange to localise THE HOME MESSENGER. Specimen copies for January next, with our new Programme for 1914, and all particulars regarding localising, will be sent to any Minister or Church Official, on receipt

of a post-card. Write to Mr. FREDERICK A. ATKINS,

Temple House, Tullis Street, London, E.C.

Telephone : 2356 HOLBORN. Ttlegrams: OPENEYED, LONDON.'

816 THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. DECEMBER 4, 1913

OUR CHURCHES AND PEOPLE. GENERAL COMMITTEE NOTES.

the President's Warning. The President of the Conference has recently been con-

lucting a large number of services in the Darlington and Itockton District. He has visited Darlington, Crook—an old circuit of the President's—and several of the churches in the West Auckland Circuit. His sermons, lectures and tea-table talks have been greatly appreci-ated. The President has been devoting a considerable oortion of his addresses to the subject of the Sunday rvening prayer-meetings. He pleads for the presence and aarticipation of Endeavourers, and states that in many churches our leading officials are not attending and Inking part in this prayer-meeting. Against this official lukewarmness he raises a warning note.

Rev. James Travis. Or honoured friend, Rev. James Travis, is constantly

reiarred to by oar people as " The grand old man of Primitive Methodism. It is not easy to think of him as ' old." It seems but yesterday he was in the very front of battle, and his influence is still great among us. Clough his physical strength is not buoyant, his spirit is Is young and as eager as ever. His deepest interests are bound up with the movements of our Church. " One to whom I recently spoke," writes a Liader correspondent, was deeply impressed with the spiritual ripeness and

insight of our valued friend. Though you could dis- cern his keen sense of loneliness, it was easy to see how seal was the 'Father's house' to him." Mr. Travis still oreachce. Last Sunday he inspired congregations at 6laCeesaol with two living and impressive messages.

Pore' gn Missionary News, Miss Elkins, of Jamestown Institute, has had to go

'alto tho Calabar Hospital, in consequence of a bad attack 31 malarial fever. She has, however, fully recovered, and is now back at her work among the girls at Jamestown. Rev. W. H. Collins, of Teignmouth, has been accepted ,or African work. Ho has passed the medical tests, and Gill proceed to take the medical course at Livingstone ;college prior to going to Fernando Po. The trustees of she Arthington Trust have promised a grant of £50 a year for three years towards the cost of the work at Kasenga, on the termination of the grant now being made by them. Mr. J. Brearley, of Halifax, has intimated to the Missionary Committee his inability to accept the in-vitation to be a member of the deputation to visit the African Missions. Mr. T. Gerrard, of Manchester, has seen invited to accompany Rev. H. J. Taylor.

Important Chan ;es. Rev. John Bradbury, of Blackpool, has accepted the

,rivitation to superintend the Central Hall, Bradford, 'rom the Conference of 1916. A lay agent or minister as tesistant will be provided by the Missionary Committee. Jnder the special circumstances existing at Kettering, the ,lissionary Committee has asked Rev. G. Bicheno, of St. tnnes, to undertake the superintendency at next Con-erence. It is anticipated, should this invitation mature, that the whole of the encumbering debt at Kettering will se extinguished.

Notable Triumph. By a majority of twenty-seven (last year only one) the

,endon County Council endorsed its now recognised ' Temperance Policy," and refused permission to the ',and= Coliseum and Hippodrome to sell intoxicating iquors. The credit of this magnificent victory is due to the London United Temperance Council, who, through their secretary, Mr. Charles Pinhorn, have persistently nanosed these applications for the past fourteen years. n is through their efforts that the places of entertainment slid amusement in London are now largely free from the meeaminating influence of intoxicating drink. At the D'ounty Council Mr. Pinhorn is recognised as the repre-tentative of the temperance organisations in London, and st the licensing meeting on Friday last deep regret was expressed by members of the County Council and others that illness prevented him from being in his accustomed glace, Mr. F. Hinde (barrister) appearing on his behalf. It was a great grief to Mr. Pinhorn not to be able to take lig stand at the head of the temperance army and fight their cause. We trust the news of victory will be a ionic to him in his illness, and that he will be back again shortly with renewed health and vigour in the work he so mach loves and does so well.

Rejoicings at Darlington.

Councillor Thomas Crooks, J.P., a local preacher on Darlington Circuit, has just passed through a very pain-Tul experience. A summons was issued against him oa a charge of criminal libel for having written a letter to a North-Eastern Railway foreman urging him to dismiss an employee. Mr. Crooks denied all knowledge of the letter, and are who knew him were enthusiastic in declar-wig that ho was incapable of such action. He has been Re- many years a keen, hardworking political campaigner, and his qualities have been freely shown in the Darling-ton Town Council. He has triumphed at every election, and each time has increased his majority. Rightly or wrongly, many were convinced that political spite was behind this particular charge. The case came before the magistrates at Stockton-on-Tees, and there was general surprise when Mr. Crooks was committed for trial at Durham Assizes. This committal intensified the serious-ness of the situation. The expense, too, was sure to be great, and he was only a retired engine driver. Then there was anxiety about his future position in the Church, u well as in other spheres. Public feeling was ripening , alto practical forms of sympathy and indignation as the Assizes drew near. Great was the relief and joy when it aecame inewn that the Grand Jury had thrown out the case, so that it would not be sent forward to the Assizes Mr. and Mrs. Cranks at once received the hearty con-

stue.'icns of fleets of friends. Councillor C. W. ;tornter, J.P., of Greenbank Church, Darlington, has undertaken to raise a public fund by which if possible

I the whole of Mr. Crooks' expenses may be paid. More than half the amount has already been received. Any assistance towards this fund would be gratefully received by Councillor Stormer or Rev. C. Humble, of Darlington. Our readers willjoin us in offering sincere congratulations to Councillor and Mrs. Crooks on the happy issue of this sad experience.

Proposed Missionary Conference. The Missionary Executive has expressed its conditional

approval of the holding of a General Missionary Confer-ence,,believing it would be of great educational value. A special committee, consisting of Revs. J. Pickett, G. Bennett, J. T. Barkby, J. Mayles, and Messrs. J. Coward, A. Shaw, J. Sivil, W. Windsor, and the Secretaries, has bean appointed to consider the whole question and report. The Missionary Committee has received an offer of the Walmsley Orphan Home, Leeds, together with the adjoin-ing church and school building, and the large plot or ground adjacent. A committee has been appointed to consider the offer and to report to the Missionary Com-mittee at its next meeting.

Prospects at Bethesda, Hull. The record of Bethesda Church, Bull Third Circuit, is

one of great success. Practically within a decade £6,000 has been raised, and a strong church and flourishing school a over 800 scholars built up. A splendid site for a new church is held, and the friends are bravely facing the remaining debt on the school church. Rev. W. Shipley is in charge, and a meeting to consider a scheme to raise £500 has recently been held. Within an hour £360 was promised in the meeting. The project is therefore enlarged, and there is every likelihood of a large propor-tion of the debt being raised.

Success follows Extension. The church at Attleborough (Norfolk) is entering upon

its winter's work most 'hopefully. Since the erection of tha new premises the ordinary congregations have in-creased two-fold. Rev. W. S. Barrett is making strenuous efforts to organise the young people for prac-tical work in connection with the church. This new enterprise at Attleborough promises to provide a real centre for the old Rockland Circuit, and should help to conserve more fully the results of the successful evan-gelistic work of our Church in this area, the beginnings of which go back nearly eighty years, when Robert Key had such amazing success in the district.

A Busy Layman. Mr. R. G. Heys, RA., who has rendered splendid ser-

vice as president of the Scarborough Free Church Council during the past year, has been unanimously re-elected for a second term. Although one of the busiest men in the religious and public life of the town, Mr. Heys is giving much highly appreciated service to his own church. During the present quarter, in addition to his usual share in the work, he is visiting each of the nine places in the Scarborough First Circuit in the interests of our African missions, under the auspices of the Laymen's Missionary League, and giving a series of graphically descriptive addresses upon our West African missionary activities.

Good News from Newton and Hyde. The Newton and Hyde Circuit is experiencing gracious

seasons of refreshing. At Haughton Green and Dukin-field, the smaller societies, evangelistic missions have resulted in numerous conversions, and the Sabbath and week-evening services are being well sustained. The serious financial difficulties of the circuit are also being grappled with. It is felt that the splendid ministry of Rev. W. J. Walker, if it could be maintained for a pro-longed period, would materially assist in solving some of the acute problems that recent years have brought. Mr. Walker was stationed by the last Conference, and it is regretted on all hands that owing to the financial strain the circuit is unable to invite him 'to prolong his ministry.

Eisteddfod Successes. The annual Eisteddfod arranged by the Swindon and

District Free Church Council has once again been a great success, and there were competitors from various parts of the South-West of England. The adjudicators were Dr. Henry Coward (Sheffield), Dr. Harold C. Lake (Ply-mouth), and Mr. E. N. Tuck (Chippenham). Amongst the Primitive Methodist successes were the following :— Miss H. Knighton (Clifton-street Choir), first prize, soprano solo, and second prize, open, soprano solo ; Miss M. Mills (Clifton-street Choir), second prize, contralto solo ; Mr. W. F. Church (Prospect-place Choir), first prize, tenor solo, and second prize, open, tenor solo ; Miss D. Whitby (Regent-street Choir), first prize; girls' solo; Wootton Bassett Choir, second prize for choirs of twenty to thirty voices.

The Outlook at Edinburgh. A distinguished representative of Colonial Methodism,

recently visiting Edinburgh, was much impressed with the great opportunity enjoyed by our Livingstone Hall Mission, and also with the resourcefulness and statesmanship with whick the superintendent is directing its manifold activities. Rev. Ernest S. Emmett has suc-ceeded in gathering around him a large and devoted band of enthusiastic workers, who arequickened with a spirit of enterprise and aggressiveness, is full of Promise for the future of our work in this important Mission. The formidable difficulties are being met with undaunted courage and with a determination which deserve the highest success. Mr. Emmett is to be congratulated on the fine spirit which pervades every department of the work. His valiant endeavour to maintain the highest traditions of our Church in the capital city of. Scotland is worthy of the fullest confidence of our Church, and

After the somewhat lengthy meeting of a fortnight ago the General Committee held a much briefer meeting on Friday last under the presidency of the Vice-President of Conference (Mr. W. M. Patterson). The provinces were unusually well represented by such prominent members as Rev. J. Pickett, Messrs. J. Sivil, J. Brearley, A. Shaw and others. A deep impression was produced by the announcement that Mrs. Maylott, the beloved wife of Rev. D. T. Maylott, had passed away on Thursday afternoon, after passing through a serious operation. Intense Byrn. pathy was felt for the bereaved husband and family, and a suitable resolution was passed. The meeting was glad to hear that the respected treasurer of the S. M. W. and 0. Fund had safely passed through a surgical operation, and hoped to return to his home on Saturday. Some of the September subscriptions, we were informed, had not been paid, and as treasurer, Mr. Connell was anxious to receive them as soon as he reached home. The committee gladly learned that Rev. W. Wardle was making speedy, recovery from the effects of his accident. Sympathy was expressed with Rev. B. Haddon cn the loss of his wife, and with Mr. C. Pinhorn in his temporary breakdown in health, largely, it was feared, through overwork in the cause he loves so well. Steps were taken to meet the position of Sheffield Eighth Circuit in the embarrassment caused by the death of Rev. J. Wilkinson, and expressions of strong approval were uttered that the district was manifesting such solicitude for the comfort and con-venience of the bereaved family. The circuit and district undertake the supply and oversight of the station till Conference. Satisfaction was expressed at the comple-tion of the arrangements by which the Church-road Church, Bristol, is saved from sale and united with the Bristol Sixth Circuit. The negotiations have been pro-longed and delicate, and at one time salvation seemed almost impossible, but careful effort has resulted in satis-factory arrangements being made for the church to be linked up again with Primitive Methodism in the city. The Committee rejoiced greatly at the result of the effort. Rev. T. Jackson tendered his resignation as a member of the Free Church Commission of Inquiry, but the commit-tee did not see its way to fill up the vacancy. The report of the Connexional Fund was presented by the secretary, and considered very satisfactory. Evidently every effort is being made to meet the claims of this fund, and place it on a sound financial basis.

Remarkable Village Enterprise. Lowton, a village of 1,000 people, in S.E. Lancashire, hag

the distinction of possessing one of the finest and most up-to-date schools in the Connexion. Built of the best Accrington brick, relieved with Cefn stone facings, its ornamental front gables and pediments and semi-arched entrance, give it a beautiful and imposing appearance. On each side of the vestibule is a cloak-room. The Central hall is spacious and extremely well-lighted. Rising from the floor are four massive carved stanchions from which spring the roof trusses, framed to form one massive arch. On each side of the school are folding partitions of the -nest modern type, by which are formed on each side, three commodious class-rooms. The full width of the building is 50 ft. by 43 ft. long, and when the partitions are folded, accommodates 430, all within easy view of the rostrum. Behind the rostrum a corridor runs right through the building, dividing the front school from the infants' school and young people's parlour. Each of these two rooms will accommodate sixty, and is beautifully furnished, and well-lighted. The entire cost is £2,400-a big figure for a village society. Before the foundations were laid the trustees had paid for the site (£230) and had in hand 26:30. The stone-laying added £620. Now we have just completed the opening services. On Saturday, November 15th, Mrs. T. Cook unlocked the central door, and Miss Bridge and Miss Allen, the infants' school and young peoples' parlour. Rev. J. T. Barkby preached to a large congregation, after which 300 sat down to tea. At the evening meeting the school was Crowded. Mr. T. Cook presided, and addresses were given by Revs. J. T. Barkby, W. Cooper, J. T. Collier (superintendent minister), and Mr. S. Hayes. The services were continued as follows :— November 16th, Rev. B. Moore ; November 23rd, Rev. J. Roberts ; November 30th, Rev. A. Wilkes. Collections and donations, £156 ; making the grand total raised £1,635. When the old school building has been sold we anticipate the debt will not exceed £650.

Knowlwood Circuit Evangelism. For a long time our churches at Castle-street and

Bottoms, in the Knowlwood Circuit, have-been preparing for the visit of Sister Ellen, and their efforts have been rewarded by a very gracious quickening of spiritual interest and a large number of young people deciding for Christ. Throughout the whole District there has long existed a strong antagonism towards anything evangelistic. The atmosphere of Unitarianism pervades the religious life of these valleys. For many years " missions " have not been held, and the anti-evangelical feeling has deepened until it hung like a black cloud over all the churches. A serious concern about the spiritual dearth, was generated in the hearts of a few, and the fire began to barn. • Earnest prayer and persistent preparation heralded the coming of Sister Ellen, and she at once enlisted a band of devoted workers, who stood loyally by her side from first to last. The prayer meetings preceding the mission services, grew in numbers and power. Throughout the month the services have been marked by gracious influences and deepening power. There has been no excitement, but the old fire hair burned with increasing glow. Sister Ellen's messages are sane, convincing,

winning. The two churches have been lifted into newness of life, and a large number of young people have made intelligent choice of Christ. .And the banner of the evangel has been raised again! May our people carry onward to glorious victory!

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DECii.MBER 4; 1916

THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER

847

SCHOLARS' SCRIPTURE EXAMINA- TIONS.

Oonnexional Prizes.-Senior First (gold medal), Cyril Antliff Humphries, Manchester Sixth Circuit, Great Western-street School, 100 marks ; second, Ida Pilling, Leeds Second, Beeston Hill, 99 ; third, William A. Cliff, Bolton Second, Daubhill, 98 ; fourth, Elsie Walkden, Bolton Second, Moor-lane, 97i ; fifth, Emily Cook, Bournemouth First, Branksome, 97 ; sixth, Annie Horan, Wingate, Trimdon Colliery, 96i ; seventh, F. Hylda. E. Tudor, Wem, 96 ; eighth, Fred Askew, Brough, Tebay, 95i; ninth, Frederick J. Stockdale, Scarborough Second, Gladstone-road, 95 ; tenth, Elsie Irene Page, Old Hill, Victoria, 94.

West Midland District. Upper Middle : First, B. Thompson, Old Hill, Victoria,

100 marks •, second, L. Homer, Old Hill, Reddal Hill, 99 ; third, L. E. Cole, Dudley, Sedgley, 98. Lower Middle : First, B. Jeavons, Dudley, Noah's Ark, 97 marks • second, P. Stubbings, irierly Hill, Stourbridge, 96 ; third, hird, A. Devonport, -udley, Noah's Ark, 92. Junior : First, M. Round, Brierly Hill, Stourbridge, 100 marks ; second, H. Shepherd, Brierly Hill, Stourbridge, 99 ; third, G. Jeavons, Dudley, Noah's Ark, 98.

Darling/ion and Stockton District. Upper Middle : First, M. Wall, Shildon, Chilton-lane

Ends, 100 marks ; second, E. Watson, Darlington, Green-bank, 95 ; third, R. A. Sidgwick, Stockton, Victoria-avenue, 94. Lower Middle : First, J. Wallace, St. Helens, Auckland, Cockfield, 96 marks ; second, M. A. Walker, Stockton, Bowesfield-lane, 91 ; third, E. A. Hall, St. Helens, Auckland, Helens, 87. Junior : First, J. Burleigh, i'illington, Newfield, 93 marks ; second, M. Bell, Shildon, Coandon, 89 ; third, N. Rust, Speruaymoor, Dean Bank, 87.

Sundorland and Newcastle District. Senior : Sixth prize in the Connexion, Annie Horan,

Trindon Colliery School, Wingate Circuit, 96i marks. Upper Middle : First, Annie J. Middleton, Branch End School, Lemington-on-Tyne Circuit, 96 marks ; second, Henry King, South Moor School, Stanley Circuit, 94 ; third, Thires A. Scott, Trindon Colliery School, Wingate Circuit, 93. lower Middle : First, Gladys Davies, Pilgrim-street School, Sunderland Third Circuit, 99 marts ; second, George Blythe, Blyth Central School, Blyth Cir-cuit, 98 ; third, Jane Hardy, Milfield School, Lowick Cir-cuit, 97. Junior : First, Lily Stainthorpe, Wingate School, Wingate Circuit, 98 marks ; second, Eleanor Hall, 04 ; third, Elsie Gawman, 90 ; both of the latter belong to Waldridge Pell, Chester-le-Street Circuit.

Liverpool District. Upper First, James Walton, Fleetwood,

Thornton, 92 marks ; • second, Isabella Smith, Fleetwood, Thornton, eo ; third, Ivy Oakley, Douglas, Buck's-road, 89. Lower Middle : First, May Entwistle, Blackburn First, Prince's-street, 99 ; second, Robert B. Smith, South-port Third, Banks, 98; third, Ellen Southward, Fleet-wood, Thornton, 97. Junior ; First, Lily Woodward, Preston Brook and Runcorn, Runcorn

' 98 ; second, Olga

Nicholas, Ellesmere Port, Ellesmere Port, 96 ; third, Alice Hodges, Earlestown, Earlestown, 95.

Lynn and Cambridge District. Upper Middle : First, Annie Wyer, Watton, 92 marks ;

second, Alice Appleton, London-road, King's Lynn, 89 ; third, Allan Withers, Tittleshall, Swaffham, 88. Lower Middle : First, Edith Lancaster, Watton, 91 marks ; second, Florence Bilverstone, Rodney, Wattan, 85 ; third, Elizabeth Linge, Thetford, 84. Junior : First prize, Hilda Crispe, Litcham, Swaffham, 100 marks ; second, Eddie Taylor, 98 ; third, Dora Bracey, 97 : both of London-road, King's Lynn.

Leeds District. Upper Middle : First, Ivy L. Brazier, Leeds Second,

Beeston hill, 100 marks ; second, E. Irene Lawrence, Wakefield First, Market-street, 96 ; third, John East-wood, Leeds Eighth, Cardigan-road, 95. Lower Middle : First, Alice Pollard, Ossett, Queen-street, 97 marks ; second, Marion Wiggins, Leeds Second, Beeston Hill, 95 ; third, Jane Audsley, Ossett, Queen-street, 93. Junior : First, Evelyn Hauton, Wakefield Second, Belle Vue, 100 marks ; second, Ellen Robinson, Barnsley Second, Buck-ley-street, 99i ; third, Gwendoline Thornton, Leeds Fifth, Bramley Moriah, 99.

Shrewsbury District. Upper Middle: First, John C. A. Tudor, Wem Station,

Wem, 97 marks ; second, Jennie Bromley, Shrewsbury, Wrentnall, 88 ; third, Elsie Woodvine, Wem, Welsh End. Lower Middle : First, Albert E. Beckett, Wem, Welsh End, 97 marks ; second, Eric Jones, Oakengates and Wel-lington, Oakengates, 96 ; third, Enid Bebbington, Shrews-bury, Wrentnall, 92. Junior : First, Frank Bowyer, Oswestry, Oswestry, 96 marks ; second, Phillip Taylor, Hadnall Roden, 94 ; third, Mabel Bebbington, Shrews-bury, Wrentnall, 93.

Salisbury and Southampton District. U'-ner Middle: First, none ; second, Kathleen

Etheridge, Newport and Oowes, Newport, 87 marks ; third, Freda Hallett, Portland, Fortune's Well, 85. Lower Middle : First, none ; second, none ; third, Nellie Ootgrove, Winchester, Orphanage, 78 marks. Junior : First, Doris K. Harper, Bournemouth First, Spring-bourne, 97 marks ; second, Dorothy Hall, Micheldever, Stratton, 96 ; third, Vera L. Dime, Portland, Fortune's Well, 95 ; Charles F. Marsh, Winchester, Winchester, 95

South Wales District. South Wales District.-Upper Middle Division : First,

Iverna Alvard, Rhondda, Llwynpia, 98 marks ; second,

Frank Richardson, Mountain Ash, Mountain Ash, 91 marks ; third, Mildred Edwards, Rhondda, Ogmore Vale, 86 marks. Lower Middle Division : First, Gertrude Turner, Cross Keys, Crumlin, 92 marks ; second, Nellie Yeo, Cross Keys, Crumlin, 91 marks ; third, Samuel Par-fitt, Mountain Ash, Newtown, 90 marks. Junior : First, Edna M. Richardson, Mountain Ash, Mountain Ash, 95 marks ; second, Clara E. Barnes, Newport, Rogerstone, 90 marks ; third, John Barker, Rhondda, Pentre, 89 marks.

LIVERPOOL AND DISTRICT COUNCIL. The members of the above Church Council met at Mount

Tabor Church, Birkenhead, on Wednesday, November 26th, under the presidency of Rev. J. H. Johnson, Mr. Morris Jones being secretary. The friends at Mount Tabor made most generous provision in a substantial tea. There is to be a great Missionary Convention at Everton-road, Liverpool, on February 4th. The Ladies' Missionary Auxiliary and the Council will jointly work this Conven-tion. Revs. S. Horton, A. T. Guttery, and a returned missionary are expected to address the evening me‘ting. The Liverpool and District Psalmody Association will attend and render special music. The position of Prkni-tive Methodism in the city of Liverpool again seriously engaged the attention of the Council. Our numbers are relatively small, and even what we possess is in many cases precarious. Several of our churches are becoming down-town. Open doors are before us and urgent need. The General Missionary Committee have the matter under consideration, and it is hoped help will be forthcoming. The importance of Sunday-school work gave rise to an animated discussion. The subject is to be first on the agenda for the meeting in February at Aintree. Thanks to the evening speakers, Revs. J. Swinden and P. Nume, the chairman, Rev. J. H. Johnson, and to Mount Tabor friends and choir were warmly tendered.

Mr. Thomas Day. By the death of Mr. Thomas Day, of Armscott, late

senior circuit steward of the Stratford-on-Avon Circuit, the Church has lost one of its oldest and most loyal members. On October 28th he attained his ninetieth year, and was called into higher service on November 15th. His life was marked by a loyalty and devotion worthy of the best traditions. He began to teach in the Sunday, school at Armscott in 1865, in which he served for forty-four years, during the greater number of which he was superintendent. He began to preach in 1868. In both capacities he laboured loyally, until increasing age made it necessary for him to lay aside active service four years ago. To the end he retained a lively interest in every-thing which concerned the circuit. The funeral took niece on November 19th, a service being held in Armscott Chapel, conducted by Rev. John Mark (Congregational). The interment took place at Newbold, Rev. H. F. Stretch officiating at the graveside. A memorial service was held at Armscott on November 23rd, conducted by Rev. H. F. Stretch.

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848 THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. DECEMBER 4, 1913

ROME AND MARRIAGE.*

By Arthur T. Guttery.

A great tide of indignant resentment is rising as men realise the true meaning and effect of the Papal decree, " Ne Temere." It is seen to threaten the British home, and to violate those principles of civil and religious free-dom which are the glory and strength of our nation. It esalts canonical law into supremacy, places an ecclesi-astical edict between the citizen and common law, and shatters the unity of many a home. Thoughtful men agree that in marriages between Protestants and Catholics there is always grave risk of division and disaster. Parents do well to warn their sons and daughters of this fact, but we cannot allow the priest of any one church to come between husband and wife, to theme the marriage that has been sanctioned by British law, and to brand with illegitimacy the children who have been born in wedlock.

The issues of this decree are so monstrous and cruel that Germany and Hungary have declared it shall not operate within their borders. Bolivia has defied the edict by making all marriages a civil contract, and a young nation like Canada is declaring war upon the whole system. The time has come when Britain should guard the te'rotestant who dares to wed a Catholic from the size. ler and interference of the Romish hierarchy. The " Ne Temere " decree it an attempt to enforce the marriage law approved by the Council of Trent in 1563 ; it is hope-lessly mediaeval, and is a survival of the tradition that made the Papal will supreme as the final law in all realms. It had some meaning when the Pope was the King of kings, but it is an impertinence, if not a blasphemy, in these modern days, when the Pope is but a feeble figure in the game an ambitious Vatican would play with all our liberties. The effects of the decree have been bluntly stated by the Catholic Truth Society. Pro- , testants are threatened in many ways. We give extracts from an official and Catholic exposition of "Ne Temere." " The marriage of all Catholics (both parties Catholics) before a Protestant minister or civil magistrate is no marriage at all." " The marriage of all fallen-away Catholics (who have become Protestants or infidels) before a Protestant minister or civil magistrate is no marriage at all." " The marriage of a Catholic to a non-baptized person is never a real marriage unless the Church grants a dispensation." " The marriage of a Catholic to a Pro-testant (one never baptized in the Catholic Church) before a Protestant minister or civil magistrate is no marriage at all."

These are proposals which are all the more intolerable because the Church of Rome does not admit she is one Church among many ; she claims to be the only true Church, and demands that her canonical law shall super-sede the civil Jaw, and by another decree, " Motu Proprio," that her priests shall be exempt from all trial by cur secular Courts. It is a belated attack upon our British law of marriage, which rests the family on a civil c • erect as much as upon a religious sacrament. It may l.'s said these regulations only affect Catholics ; they always wound Protestants who dare to marry Catholics, and believe they may do so without perjuring their faith under the protection of English law. Englishmen are slow to move on questions that seem to be ecclesiastical, for there has grown up in this country a healthy contempt for the priests ; but when it is seen that homes are broken up, that virtuous women are declared to be unchaste, and innocent children are branded as illegitimate by the officers of Rome, there will flame forth a passion that will burn the decree and declare the Vatican guilty of a wicked and libellous conspiracy against innocent folk.

Rome attempts the impossible, for she would curb that principle of natural selection which we call love between men ard women. If human nature is true to its instincts, love laughs at prison bars and scoffs at priestly regula-tions. Men and women are not drawn into the sweetest intimacy by the will of a Pope or the dispensation of a Church, but by the cunning of Nature, the mother of us all. Pseine is guilty of a political audacity that is in-tolerable in these democratic days. Rome claims to be a Government and State quite as much as a Church. She issues decrees when she cannot use the sword, but both are wielded with the one purpose of ruling all life, social as well as spiritual. She declares null and void what the law of the land save is legal, and she will punish with all ler anathemas the man who persists in being English before he is Catholic. She takes a contract, made under the sanction of law and recorded by our Registrar-General, and tears it up as if it was an adulterous licence. It is a conspiracy against legality that public opinion must stamp out. Rome wages war on the English home. It disturbs the peace of any marriage, however legal, which does not submit to its sectarian regulations. Where it has the power, it would sanction a Roman Catholic man regarding the woman, whom he had married before a Protestant minister or the Registrar, as no wife at all ; and so she is in peril of being cast aside as an improper woman unless , she humbly forswears her faith and sub-mits to a re-marriage which besmirches the previous years of union. Loyalty to a Church is made to threaten domestic fidelity. The conviction grows that persecution is the inevitable result, and it would be easy to give indis-putable cases of cruelty and shame that have followed this infamous decree. The logic of this edict would extend the authority of the priest from his altar to the English home. To that we will not submit.

In these days of toleration both Catholic and Protestant must learn to live together in all the amenities of society and all the interests of commerce and citizenship. Nature and civilisation will not brook these priestly barriers. The number of mixed marriages will increase as religious feuds die down, and it is a scandal that a great Church should insist upon this cruel cleavage at the marriage

• Address deliv.red in the Praia' Avenu, Church, Liverpml, iscrulea, November 80th.

altar. It may be said that the decisions of Rome have no effect in Britain. Thank' God ! This is a Protestant nation, but this denunciation of legal marriage, by a Church that demands blind obedience from its disciples wounds the love and shames the honour of women and children, and it provides an excuse for that infidelity that is the blackest social crime.

It is an outrage upon British hospitality, which gives freedom to the Roman Catholic Church, grants asylum to her monastic orders when they are driven out of the countries that know them best, and offers equity of citizenship to her priests and people. Common decenra, demands that the British home, which is the truest glory and strength of our nation, shall be guarcb-d against the cruel attacks and unclean suggestions of the "No femere ' decree.

CHURCH BAZAARS AND SPECIAL EFFORTS.

The annual bazaar was held in St. John's Hall, Pen-zance, on November 25th and 26th, and was quite a success. Alderman A. K. Barnett, Mayor of Penzance, opened the first day, and Councillor J. Lethby presided. Rev. J. Turner gave the statement, showing that the debt on the chapel has been reduced by £1,000 during the last thirteen years. On_the second day Mr. H. Simpson pre-sided, and Master H. Simpson declared the bazaar open. Mrs. Turner received the purses from the young people. There was a concert each evening, also a gold and silver tree, from which Miss L. Penberthy plucked the fruit. The hall was decorated and the stalls were laden. A large company attended each day. Total proceeds, £101 14s. 8d.

Two churches in Leicester Third Circuit have concluded special efforts, at which £250 have been raised, At Curzon-street we had a silver ship festival, the ship being a model of the " Titanic," made to scale by Messrs. H. E. Lakin and P. Clark, and which was constructed to receive the 4,000 shillings asked for. Other beautiful models were exhibited. The schoolroom was decorated, and the festival occupied three days. Mrs. Gilbert Tucker, of Loughborough, opened it the first day and Mrs. Robin-son presided. The ladies' choir, in sailor costume, gave a delightful concert in the evening, under the leadership of Mrs. Barker and Mrs. Beal. Councillor J. Walker and Mr. J. Vincent officiated the second day. The gentlemen of the church contributed a splendid programme ; con-ductor, Mr. C. J. Brant. The third day was in the hands of the young people. Miss Gladys Major opened the festival, and Mr. Sydney Willson presided, being sup-ported by eleven other young men and women. About twenty children gave a capital concert under Mr. Brant's leadership. Miss Daisy Sherriff, A.R.C.M., arranged a musical programme, in which Mr. W. Paine and Mr. S. Garlett, of Forest Hill, took part, together with Miss Sherriff. Public teas were given by Mrs. A. Irons, Mr. W. M. Stabler, and Messrs. G. Workman and A. Yeomans The Mayoress, of Leicester, unloaded the ship, and the total proceeds amounted to £185.

At Humberstone-road, Leicester Third, a three days' birthday party was held, at which the following offici-ated : —Ladies' Day : President, Mrs. Morris ; hostesses, Mrs. West and Miss Jelley. The musical programme was provided by Miss Lettie Nowrish. On gentlemen's day Rev. A. W. Bagnall presided, in the absence of Mr. W. Smith, and Mr. and Mrs. D. Sharp were host and hostess. The evening's concert was given by the Curzon-street Male Voice Choir and Mrs. A. R. Beal. Saturday was Young People's Day. Miss Doris Brewin was president, and the children gave a musical tableau, under the leadership of Mr. C. J. Forknall. The public teas were provided each day by Mrs. Morris, Mr. and Mrs. Jones, and the women's meeting. The artificial cake made to receive the money gifts of the people yielded splendidly, and was cut by Miss Lizzie West. Total proceeds, £70.

For some time Victoria Bar Church, York Second, has needed renovation, and the trustees, led by the circuit minister, set to work for a complete scheme. Electric light has been installed, new heating apparatus added, and the premises renovated. We were favoured by the following at the opening services : —Revs. G. Berry, Syd-ney, Australia, a former scholar of the school ; Rev. T. Mitchell, D.D. ; Mr. John Coward, J.P. ; Mr.. Arthur Shaw, Rotherham ; and Mr. W. M. Patterson, Vice-Presi-dent of Conference. At the public meeting the speakers were Revs. T. Mitchell, J. A. McBride, T. J. Gladwin, and W. Franks. Councillor W. Page presided and gave £5. We were successful in securing donations, and the church members contributed liberally. The young people gave an excellent tea. The entire cost is £285, and we have raised a large sum towards this amount. By a bazaar in the spring we hope to clear the whole cost and reduce the debt on the church. Our treasurer, Mr. S. R. Tan-field, son of the venerable Rev. R. Tanfield, has given over £50 towards the scheme.

A very successful bazaar was held at Caergwrle on Tuesday and Wednesday last. The opener on the first day was Mr. A. A. Davies, the chair being occupied by Mr. W. Roberts, C.C. On the second day the bazaar was opened by Mr. Jones, the chairman being Mr. J. Hassel-Owen, of Birkenhead. The stalls were beautifully decor-ated. The proceeds, which amounted to over £40, were devoted to the New Church Fund.

A bazaar to pay for the renovation, etc., of our church at Canterbury was held in the St. George's Hall on November 20th. Capt. the Hon. Cuthbert James opened the bazaar, supported by most of the Free Church minis-ters of the town. The ladies had been working most enthusiastically, and the stalls, erected by Mr. W. H. Court, were well filled with useful articles. Mr. Noble had charge 'of the musical arrangements. The accom-panist was Miss Sherwood. Solos were rendered by Miss Tuff, Messrs. Dickenson, Woodland, Noble, and J. S. Ainsworth. The proceeds amounted to £40, including 25 per cent. on the amount raised from Mr. Goodman.

In addition, Mr. Goodman gave £25 for reduction of-debt; making a total of £65. _

The annual effort on behalf of the trust which the Lancaster Church has just held has been in every respect the best and most encouraging for many years. Miss S. Dawson and Mr. Thos. Teesdale shared the opening ser-vices, supported by Rev. J. Marcus Brown, and the total proceeds amount to £80, a result which has given us very much cheer. We hope soon to launch a larger effort to reduce our heavy capital debt.

A very successful two days' bazaar took place at Snain-ton, with the object of liquidating a debt of £50 incurred by renovating the church and raising funds for certain contemplated improvements. There was a very good com-pany on Tuesday last, when, in the unavoidable absence of Miss L. Moore, Rev. J. Reavley presided. The open-ing ceremony was performed by Mrs. E. R. Cross. Bouquets were presented to Mrs. Cross by May Beswick, and to Mrs. Moore by Marie Harland. The result of the first day was £54. On Wednesday a group of Sunday-school children, accompanied by Miss L. Milner and Miss Harland, opened the sale. Master T. Abram' gave the " Openers' Address." The sight was extremely pretty. They were heartily thanked by Revs. G. T. Fawcett and Geo. Hind. The effort realised £77, a most gratifying result.

Walsall.—Notwithstanding many years of hard and diffi-cult work to remove the heavy debt on our Stafford-street Churdh, the members and friends have once more proved that they have lost none of their zeal and faith. At the recent sale of work the Mayor and Mayoress of Walsall, and the ex-Mayoress (Mrs. Venables), kindly undertook the opening ceremonies. Alderman J. N. Cotterell and Mr. J. Archer were happy presidents, supported by Alderman J.' Williams,- Messrs. J. Brownhill, W. Jones, D. Jones, S. Carter, W. Savage and Rev. F. It. Brunskill. The stalls yielded the following results : —Married Ladies' Stall, £27 17s. ; C.E. Stall, £24 6s. 9d. ; Confectionery Stall, £9 18s. 9d. ; Refreshment Stall, £31 7s. ld. ; Young Men's Stall, £15. The object was to raise £100, but it was found at the close that the total was £123.

The " Rainbow " Bazaar recently held at Wellgate, Rotherham First, for the reduction of debt has been an unqualified success. Splendid companies gathered for the opening ceremonies. The bazaar was opened on the first day by Mrs. D. J. Clarke, president Mrs. J. Chislett ; second day by Councillor J. Ketton, Mr. A. Shaw pre-siding ; • third day by twenty-six crown children, whose contributions reached to £7 10s. 2d, conductor Mrs. Ash • fourth day by Rev. G. G. Martindale, on behalf of Mr. P. Hassell, of Scunthorpe. The proceeds, including circuit promises, reached over £400. We hope to secure sub-stantial Connexional assistance, and thus alleviate to some extent the financial pressure which has crippled this church for years.

IN MEMORIAM.

Mrs. Hannah Mettam. In the death of Mrs. Hannah Mettam, which took place

at Old Whittington on November 21st, the Chesterfield Third Circuit and the village society have sustained a great loss. At the harvest festival services in September, though unwell, she was most active, as usual. On the following Wednesday she had to take to her bed, from which, after eight weeks of patient suffering, her spirit entered " the house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens." She joined our church at Old Whittington thirty-five years ago. The transparent beauty of her character made her " an epistle of Jesus Christ read and known " throughout the neighbourhood. She was 'a tower of strength to our church. Her attendance at the services and meetings of all kinds was exemplary. Her service covered the entire range of the church's activities, the spiritual and material interests of the cause being alike her concern. Her children have grown up to call her blessed, the son being a most acceptable local preacher and capable official, and the daughter a devoted worker in our church. The high respect in which she was held was shown by the large gathering at the funeral on November 25th, every church in the circuit being represented. The service in the chapel and in the churchyard was conducted by Rev. B. Arnfield.

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Current Events. By Joseph Kitson.

Mr. Asquith at Leeds. The great speech of the Prime Minister at Leeds

has filled Liberals with satisfaction and the Tories with wrath and dismay. It was at once firm and conciliatory. The Tory demand for a General Elec-tion was set aside as utterly groundless, and the Government will not be deflected from the pursuit of what it believes to be right and politic by the menaces of civil war. In regard to conciliation, the offer of the Ladybank speech is still open. The Cabinet is united, obedience to the law must be secured, but there is to be no surrender of principle. " I should be deceiving myself," said the Premier, " if I were to say that I saw at this moment a prospect of agree-ment." Home Rule was shown to be the historic policy of Liberalism, and the Cabinet mean to " see it through," a statement that roused immense enthu-siasm. Still, it is evident that Mr. Asquith does not despair of a settlement by consent, and his hand will never close a door opening on a reasonable and honour-able understanding that will place Irish Home Rule beyond the risks of electoral and Parliamentary vicissitudes. What Tories want is not settlement, but surrender, and it is time they recognised that they are not going to get it.

The Premier and Armaments We do not find Mr. Asquith's declarations on the

growth of armaments quite so satisfactory, but we hope he recognised, all the same, the strong and grow-ing feeling on this question in the ranks of Liberal- ism. his figures are true enough. The amount spent on armaments in proportion to our total revenue is no doubt less rather than more than it was; but the fact remains that the evidence on which the present increase was - originally based has been proved to be false. Germany was to have seventeen Dreadnoughts in 1912. The actual number turned out to be nine. Our huge increase was designed to meet a non-exist-ent emergency, and now Mr. Churchill's increase is to be justined not by what Germany, but the rest of Europe, is doing. We are to build against Germany, Austria and Italy, without counting on a single ship possessed by France and Russia, the other members of the entente, as in our favour. If we are to build and maintain a fleet against the world we shall pursue a policy of sheer madness. We are not pleading for a Tory in place of a Liberal Government. That would be exchanging the frying-pan for the fire. But it is time Liberals took energetic measures to end the present folly. We have carried out the Tory policy long enough, and we must end it.

Unionists and the Army. The Premier sternly denounced the element of gross

sedition in Lord Lansdowne's speech, but Mr. Boner Law, in Dublin, seemed determined to go one better than Lord Lansdowne. His speeches should serve to bring home to the people of this country that they have to deal, not with a sober Constitutional party, but a revolutionary Oligarchy. Toryism is desperate. It cannot reconcile itself to the Parliament Act, and is determined to regain at any risk its old power of thwarting Liberal Governments through the House of Lords. Now that everything else has failed them they turn to the Army. The Lords' veto having been lost the Army is to be used instead. To prevent Home Rule Ulster is stirred to rebellion, and the Govern-ment is defied to use the Army against it. That is the meaning of Mr. Law's silly talk about Mr. 'Asquith's resemblance to King James II. There was no civil war in 1688, because the Army deserted the King, but a revolution instead. Similarly, the Army is to desert Mr. Asquith, and there is to be a 'revolu-tion. Well, we shall see. We have no fear. What-ever happens in Ulster there will be no revolution to restore the veto of the House of Lords. Charles II. once said to his brother, " Nobody would kill me, James, to make you King." That has a very perti-nent modern application.

Mr. Lloyd George and Ulster. Mr. Bonar Law's glib talk about revolution re-

ceived a fitting reply from the Chancellor in the open-ing of his great speech in London on Saturday. It is not Ulster about which Tories are concerned, but the land. They are at their old game of raising a noise about something of trivial import to divert atten-tion from their own monopolies. So far as Tory fears about Ulster rro 8-4-ruine, satisfaction cau be given; but if Ulster's fears are to be used to fight Tory

selfish battles, the fighting will not be all on one side. If revolution begins on Tory initiation, Ulster is not the only question that will be settled. Mr. Law will find the French Revolution a more pertinent study than that of England in 1688. Tories know well that the Presbyterian religion will be safer in Ireland under Home Rule from persecution than Noncon-formity is to-day in the villages of England. That is a blow for our Tory pretenders straight between the eyes, and well deserved. If religious equality ever falls into jeopardy, rescue will not come from the Tories, on whose flag intolerance, bigotry, and re-ligious persecution have ever been emblazoned. Verily they are not the people to defend religious equality in Ireland or anywhere else.

A Tremendous Indictment. After dealing. with Ulster, Mr. Lloyd George out-

lined his proposals for remedying the evils of our leasehold law. His description of the existing system was a terrific exposure, the like of which has never been heard in this country. It is impossible to give even the barest summary either of the indictment or the remedy here. The speech ought to be read by every man and woman in these islands. The abject condition of the villages, the frightful state of the slums, the iniquitous exactions of the landlords—all were set forth in burning words that will live in the memory of all who read them. " Our descendants will regard our present condition with as much horror as we now contemplate human sacrifice." As for the remedy, there must be a national survey of the national housing conditions, security of tenure to all leaseholders, renewal of leases by Commissioners on reasonable terms, with compensation for non-renewal, in regard to buildings, fixtures, etc. The vast pro-perties now contributing nothing to the rates must pay their share. The scandal which allows the workers of the richest country in the world to be housed in slums must be ended. It was a great speech that will be historic in coming days. The Tories found the Chancellor's first speech mild and dull. There is no fear of the same complaint now. We should imagine they will find Limehouse mild in com-parison. This trumpet call to a slumbering nation will not be without response. The new age has found its leader, and will not fail him as he faces the mono-polies that are sapping all that is best in our national life.

Towards Peace. Several events this week make for peace and

against the growth of armaments. The fall of M. Barthou's ministry in France on its proposal to raise a loan of £52,000,000 to meet the army increase is a distinct set-back for militarism and reaction. The particular proposal for raising the loan was in keep-ing with the reactionary policy which aims at imposing burdens on the toilers and the exemption of the moneyed classes. The narrow majority of the pre-vious day indicated that the Government was in seri-ous difficulties. The cry of the Bavarian Premier in favour of a pause in expenditure on armaments was Seconded by the German Minister of Finance on Tues-day, who said in the Reichstag, " We must retrench everywhere if we do not want to ruin our finances and the taxpayer." Military extravagance has ruined the French Government, and now clearly threatens that of Germany. We hope that our ministers will avail themselves of the opportunity afforded by Peace Sunday to plead for peace and against armaments and war.

Christmas Cards and Calendars.

Messrs. Raphael Tuck and Sons are again in the front place with their Christmas cards and calendars. Year by year this famous house seems to surpass itself in its artistic productions. Both calendars and cards excite the exclamatory " Charming I " First and foremost are the " Royal " Christmas cards, which have been produced in the worthiest style. Special permission has been obtained for their reproduction, and all lovers of the beautiful will be delighted with them. Of the Christmas and New Year cards there are about 5,000 new designs, the choice being more diversified than ever. Hare all possible tastes are met, and the lowest in price are also full of artistic effect. The Tennyson Block Calendar, with a quotation for each day, has an attractive picture of Gareth and Lynette. Father Tack's Annual is as full of fun as a book can be, stories, poems and pictures all being such as children never tire to read. What happy hours this book will give to the young folk! "Pictures and How to Make Them " is the development of a new idea, and one which will prove popular with young people generally. There are numerous children's books, all of which will afford merriment and profit.

The auto-stationery for Christmas seems to have reached its climax this year. In style, design and artistic tints the stationery is exquisitely produced. The House of Tuck will continue to flourish so long as it continues to issue productions such as these, where the best art and material combine to produce the loveliest effect.

THE LATE MRS. MAYLOTT.

Isabella Maylott, nee Woodward, was barn at Oldham,, in Lancashire, on April 27th, 1844, and entered into the rest laid up for those who 16ve the Lord on Thursday, morning, November 27th, 1913. Her parents were native' of Wensleydale, Yorkshire, and in the early days of the nineteenth century removed with their three children to Oldham, Lancashire, where they continued members of our Church until their death. The year 1859 was an epoch one, for then, at fifteen years of age, Isabella heard the Divine voice and experienced His saving grace. Her father was a successful business man in Oldham. His house was a home for the ministers as they came with their burning zeal for the Christ. Trained in such a; school of Christian experience and social sympathy, one ceases to wonder that her life did indeed adorn the doe-trine of our Lord Jesus Christ.

She was married at Oldham in 1883 to Rev. D. T. Maylott, who had returned from his missionary services at Fernando Po—returned with the poisonous 4ever in his blood, and what seemed to be hopelessly shattered health. She was told quite frankly that Mr. Maylott could not expect to live more than two or three years. " Oh ! " she said, with sublime courage, " I am prepared to take all the risk. He shall not die if I can help it. The work he has to do is worth a thousand businesses, which I am leaving, and is indeed worth everything." And that courage persisted ; it never flagged nor lost heart in face of difficulties or the passing years. How faithfully she has kept her pact her whole life and her death is an evidence. The manifold duties of a minister's wife were faithfully and unremittingly discharged by her at Dar. wen, Kentish Town for six years, Moss-lane, Stockport,. Walkden, then Kentish Town again, where finally her husband superannuated in 1900. Her thirteen years' residence have been years of unceasing service in the circuit, in the work of the Women's Missionary Federa-tion, and in the activities of the British Women's Tem-perance Association. Her goodness was so real and prac-tical, made for human nature's daily food ; her courage so fearless when any duty was to be done ; her faith that saw the ideal actualised, where others saw only raw be-ginnings ; the patience that persisted, and made her instant and constant in well-doing—all these qualities made her daily walk a good diffused. These were the angels of light begotten in her life by the grace of our, Lord Jesus Christ. I saw her for the last time in the Hampstead Hospital, just a few hours before the opera-tion which ended so fatally. No face could have been more serene, no spirit more tranquil. The memory of that form, in its utter weakness and in the amazing courage of its spirit will abide with me. A large number of friends gathered in our Kentish Town Church at the funeral service on Tuesday, conducted by Rev. Peter Kay. Those taking part in the service included Revs. J. D. Thompson, J. Welford, W. Mincher, H. Clarke, W. Roberts, and W. A. Hammond. Mr. A. R. Greedy wad at the organ, and at the close played " The Dead Marcie/

Scholars' Scripture Examination.

London First District. Upper Middle.—let prize, Winifred Hawes, Totten.

ham, Wood Green, 98 marks ; 2nd, Bessie M. Bening,; Forest Gate, Upton-lane, 97 ; 3rd, Thomas G. Orchard, Tottenham, Lower Edmonton, 95. Lower Middle.—Ist, May Ince, Leytonstone, Gainsboro' Bridge, 98 ; 2nd, Ellen R. Cornell, Wickhambrook and Newmarket, Dalham, 97;1 3rd, Thomas G. Hocken, Hounslow, Southall, 96. Junior. —1st, Elsie Sheady, Kentish Town and West Hampstead, Grafton-road, 96 ; 2nd, Reginald W. Phippen, North-ampton Second, Kettering-road, 95; 3rd Marjorie V. Price, Poplar, Cubitt Town, 94.

Bristol District. Middle.—let prize, Marjorie G. Dabney, Strand-road,.

Gloucester, 99 marks; 2nd, Gladys Haynes, Strand-road, Gloucester, 92 ; 3rd, Marie L. Jewell, Albany, Bristol Sixth, 83. Lower Middle.--lst, Joseph Kilminster, Coney Hill, Gloucester, 86 ; 2nd, Evelyn Packer, Ebenezer, Bristol First, 86 ; 3rd, May Archer, Coney Hill,-Gloacev ter, 84. Junior.- plat, A. Hedley Marshall, Barton-streetx Gloucester, 99 ; 2nd, Hetty Rewires, Coney Hill, Glouces-ter, 95; 3rd, Marjorie Danford, Frome, 94 ; 3rd, Robot Riddick, Bath-road, Midsomer Norton, 94.

Peace Sunday. Sna,—I am desired by the Peace Society to call thif,

attention of our ministers to the fact that Peace Sunday will be observed on December 21st. May I urge that special emphasis shall somehow be laid on this question at one or other of the services on that day. There never was a time when it was more necessary that the churches should make their influence felt on this question. In common with the nations of Europe, we seem to be held in the iron grip of a conscienceless militarism that cares nothing for the highest welfare of the people, but is intent only on the satisfaction of its own selfish greed. If the churches would speak out boldly against war and those who foster its spirit they would do much to encourage our own Government to take such steps as may be pot' sible to limit the waste of the nation's wealth on arms. ments. I am desired to intimate that literature on thd question may be obtained on application to the office of the Peace Society, 41, New Broad-street, London, Yours, etc., JOSEPH RITS024

IN MEMORIAM. POPE.—In loving memory of Henry Pope, called to rest

December 2nd, 1912. Ever remembered by wife and chi} dren.

The Bible for Children Fitcy.seven Old Testament Stories and Sixty-one New Testament Stories, chosen by THISELTON MARK, D.Lit., with Illustrations and Maps.

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Berwick Bassett—The House of Mr. and Mrs. Moses Pickett and where six of the family were born is at the extreme left of the picture.

DECEMBER 4, 1913 THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. 853

The Romantic Challenge of the Plough. e+e.:•e•e•:•ex•e+e+e.:45+e.:.0.:•e4e

The Life Story of a Remarkable Family of Village Primitive Methodists.

e+e.:•ex•e+e40E+04,e+e+fx•ei.e.:•e4.e) By COLIN GREENWOOD.

IN01U•04.0445+r+IIN.C.M5+C+C©•:46.1'.0

the good clergyman's tract awakened yearnings which Anglicanism could not completely satisfy. Says James Anthony Fronde : " To a man of fervid temperament suddenly convinced of sin, incapable of being satisfied with ambiguous answers to questions which mean life or death to him, the Church of England has little to say. If he is quiet and reasonable he finds all he desires. Enthusiastic ages and enthusiastic temperaments demand something more complete and consistent." Moses Pickett was of the temperament that demands something more complete and consistent. What Macaulay rather haughtily described as the passion of the field preacher, the evan-gelistic impulse which sends a man into the highways to warn the passers-by, was strong upon him. And so he became a Primitive Methodist, then a local preacher, and a local preacher of special acceptance as a Camp Meeting preacher. He belonged to the generation of pedestrian preachers, and must have tramped thousands of miles to his many appointments. In the Camp Meet-ing season he would be planned every Sabbath. For over thirty-seven years he was in labours more abundant and in journeyings oft. When there was no Primitive Methodist sanctuary within easy reach of Berwie\ Bassett, services were held in his kitchen, and when thaN became too small they were transferred to an old mill. The cottage in which this little cause was horn still stands, but the Society which has entered into the Pickett's Berwick Bassett heritage now worships in a pretty little country chapel at Winterbourne.

The Challenge of a Mother's Ambition.

One of Moses Pickett's earliest preaching comrades was a young man named George James. George James after-wards entered the ministry, and travelled for a while on Poole Circuit. Several of his Poole sermons, together with a temperance address, are before me as I write. They bear the dates 1856 and 1858. They are written in a neat and careful hand, and they show the writer to have been a diligent, painstaking, and inspiring preacher of the Word. But George James' name is writ largest on the life of Primitive Methodism in New South Wales. He was one of the Connexion's pioneers to the all-British continent. He edited the "New South Wales Primitive Methodist," and, according to one informant, was elected President of an Australian Conference. The story of his Australian achievements should some day be told for English readers, and perhaps the best man to tell it would be Rev. Theophilus Parr, M.A., who was his closest comrade for many years. But George James comes into this story because Moses Pickett fell in love with his sister. Moses Pickett and Sarah James had known each other as boy and girl. At the time of her wooing she was living near Avebury. To an antiquarian Avebury is one of the most interesting places in Europe. It has an ancient stone circle which Aubrey declared surpassed Stonehenge as much as a cathedral surpasses a parish church. In the shack,' of one of " these mysterious, grey, weather-beaten stones, reared for dark rites by long-dead hands ; recalling the long-dead creed of a half-forgotten race, in its early blind groping after faiths and knowledge, after the will of the Unseen or the movements of the stars," Moses Pickett and Sarah' James told that lover's tale which is as old as the Avebury mcnuments and as fresh as the morning dew.

Moses Pickett's bride came from a family remarkable for their physical and mental strength. One of her brothers, who stood well over six feet, was, for his fine straight physique, impressed for a soldier. Thcugh he had not voluntarily enlisted, his character, capacity and industry brought him rapid promotion, and he soon be-came a non-commissioned officer. He saw service in India and was killed in the Crimea. The return of his belong. ings, together with the tidings of his death. was one of the saddest memories of his sister's life. She hersell was tall, somewhat stately in appearance, and of great natural refinement. She carried herself as erect when nearly eighty as when she was twenty. And this up- rightness of carriage was significant of a spirit that would rule circumstances rather than be ruled by them, of a " heart that proved a match for any fate." She was the mother of nine children in all. Two of these were taken very early, both dying of measles in the same week. It must have been a hard struggle to bring up a large family on a wage that never passed the Lloyd George minimum

The Challenge of the Plough. There was a man in the land of Jefferies whose name

Ras John Pickett. And there were born unto him eight sons and three daughters.- And the daughters were Sarah, Elizabeth and Annie ; and the sons' names were Thomas, Adam, David, Moses, John, James, Jesse and George. And Moses Pickett, begat Samuel, James, Frederick, Laura, Henry John, Kate, and Frank Pickett. • The present generation of Primitive Methodists knows the sons of Moses Pickett as men gifted in the pulpit. An earlier Wiltshire generation knew the sons of John Pickett as men cunning with the ploughshare. They tell us that in these days English peasants are not encouraged to take such pride in being skilled 'ploughmen. They are taught to count it promotion to be made attendants at a lunatic asylum. But in John Pickett's day a ploughman could take as much pride in ploughing the straightest furrow as Stradivari took in making the sweetest violin. They still show you a stretch of greensward, as straight as an

The late Mr. Moses Pickett.

arrow, which follows a furrow that Moses Pickett struck in a ploughing match, and which because of its ver directness is now used as a path over the downs. The straight furrow which becomes a straight path for the feet of coming generations, is a parable worthy of being made the subject of a sermon, and I have sometimes wished I could hear what one of the preaching Picketts would make of such a text. But none of them will ever preach better than their father ploughed, and none know it better than themselves. Samuel, the eldest son, treasures as his most precious family heirlooms his father's ploughing certifi-cates. These were given by the Marlborough District Association, of which Earl Bruce was then president. The first carried with it a prize of £2, and bears the date 1850. The prize with the second was £5, and the date is 1951. The task to be accomplished is described as " to plough half an acre of land in the most workman-like manner with three horses and a driver." John Pickett'issued a challenge for himself and his five sons to plough against any six men in Wiltshire, and the challenge was never taken up. This is the beginning of the history of the house of Pickett. It makes an appropriate starting-point for their stirring story, for workman-like efficiency has always been a passion with the Picketts, and they have been flinging down or taking up challenges from that day to this.

The Challenge of a Conversion.

One of the easiest challenges that Moses Pickett had to take up was the challenge of his own conversion. For he was one of those men to whom conversion always means both a challenge and a call, a challenge to fidelity and a call to service. If what is bred in the bone comes out in the flesh there must have been a religious strain in the Pickett fibre from the first. Though the grand- children of John Pickett are now scattered over three continents, wherever we have been able to trace them we find them actively engaged in religious work. Besides the Picketts in England, there is Laura Pickett, now Mrs. H. B. Barber, a 'minister's wife in Melbourne, Australia ; Frank Pickett, the Sunday-school superintendent of a. Methodist Episcopal Church at St. Louis U.S.A. ; while a son and daughter of George Pickett—Charles B. Pickett and Eva N. Pickett—maintain the family traditions at

Warren, Pennsylvania. John Pickett's daughter Annie afterwards became Mrs. Buddell. Her son and grandson are both Congregational ministers, and the grandson has just graduated at Cambridge University. John Pickett's Scriptural predilections might almost be concluded from the fact that so many of his children bore Bible names, four of them Old Testament names. But though he would appear to have always been a pietist, especially where his children were concerned, it ddoes not appear that he was ever a Methodist. His son Adam recalled his father taking him, along with his brothers and sisters, to a Baptist chapel three miles distant at Avebury. Moses Pickett seems to have gravitated to Primitive Methodism of his own accord, attracted by its evangelical fervour. But his first spiritual awakening was in connection with the Church of England. The militant Picketts have at times been unsparing assailants of the Church established by law, but they have to acknowledge an Anglican ancestry. Both their father and mother belonged as boy

The late Mrs. Moses Pickett.

and girl to the 5Ionkton village church choir. And, strange as it may seem, even to some Anglicans, Moses Pickett was savingly and evangelically converted in the Church of England. Like Hugh Bourne, he passed into the Kingdom, not on any wave of religious excitement, but through the quiet reading of the printed page.

There still lives at Wootton Bassett a veteran preacher of ninety, William Rowles by name, who sixty-six years ago handed to Moses Pickett, then a young man of twenty-three, a tract which led to his conversion. The

tract was written by a clergyman named Ryle, who after-wards became famous as Bishop Ryle of Liverpool, perhaps the most evangelical prelate who ever sat on the Bench. Sixty-three years later Moses Pickett's son Henry became a Liverpool minister, and one of his greatest delights was to muse in the haunts of Bishop Ryle. But

of £1 a week, and for the greater part of their married life fell far short of this. But thrifty housewives achieve financial wonders that put the Exchequer experts to open shame. She and her husband also gave freely of their substance to the work of the Church. They were also given to hospitality, and from beginning to the end

854 THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER DECEMBER 4, 1913

of an army captain, used to meet the women on the way r than a single circuit. Even to-day Brinkworth Circuit is to the cottage services and try to turn them back. She could intimidate the weaker sisters, 'belt some of the others were free-spoken Wiltshire women who returned her better than she sent. In the -end she confessed that

ef their married life their's was a. preacher's honie. For ;citable words with which to describe her one has to fall pack on the description of the virtuous woman in the Dock of Proverbs, almcf..t every word of which could be .iterally. applied. " Who can find a virtuous woman, for her price is above rubies? The heart of her husband loth safely trust in her. She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life. She seeketh wool and flax end worketh diligently with her hands. . . . She tiseth while it is yet night and giveth meat to her house-hold. . . . Her husband is known in the gates when he sitteth among the elders of the land. . . . Strength and honour are her clothing, and she shall rejoice in time to come. She openeth her mouth with wisdom, and in her tongue is the law of kindness. She looketh well to the ways of her household and eateth not the bread of idleness. Her children rise up and call her blessed ; her husband also, and he praiseth her. Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all."

It is nearly always an idle and unprofitable specula-tion as to whether a gifted family owes most to its father or mother. But in. this case we are free to say that it was the mother who had most ambition for her children, and who looked round for a ladder on which they could climb. The father, himself a prize ploughman and the son of a prize ploughman, might have been content for his sons to turn out as good or better ploughmen than himself. But the mother saw with her own eyes what became of the peasants whose backs are bent and whose spirits are broken beneath the heavy yoke of English feudalism, and she resolved that. this yoke should never press on her own sons. At her instigation the family moved to Wootton Bassett to give the boys a better chance. Wootton Bassett is a little country town with a population of about two thousand, and consisting for the most part of a single straight street. It used to have a mayor and corporation and to elect two members if Parliament. It is famous in history as the last place to use a ducking-stool and as the first constituency of

sceptical Bolingbroke. Perhaps one should say it was so famous until Primitive Methodism and the Picketts gave it another and a better distinction. I do sot suppose that Wootton Bassett has grown any less, but other towns, especially in the coal belt, have grown much bigger, and so it seems smaller relatively if not actually. But for the Pickett family is meant greatly extended opportunities and a fuller life. To begin with it meant better schools, and the parents made great sacrifices for their children's education. It also meant a better position for the father, though it took him sway from the plough. His first opening was for a brewery company, but that was speedily surrendered for onscience sake. Samuel Pickett's earliest Wootton Bas-

sett memory is that of being sent by his mother, along with his brother James, to the Band of Hope to sign the pledge. At that time Samuel would be seven and James would be five. It is superfluous to add that both brothers have been total abstainers over since. After leaving the brewery company the father entered the service of Messrs. Weston, grocers and cheese factors. He remained in their

Rey. James Pickett.

employment and in the happiest relations with his em-ployers until his death in 1885. As the boys grew up they were taken on by their father's firm, and remained with them until they left to take up better situations in other towns. The two daughters, Laura and Kate, became teachers at the British School. The mother lived to see all her children happily placed. Three sons be. came ministers and two daughters became ministers' wives. On Wednesday, June 17th, 1908, her son James was elected President of the Conference. On Thursday, June 18th, 1908, her sari Henry John was elected vice-principal of the Hartley College. On Friday, June 19th, 1908, the mother herself peacefully passed away. She just lived long enough to hear of the distinctions that had come to her sons.

The Challenge of Persecution.

In his " Victory in the Villages," a carefully compiled history of the Brinkworth Circuit, the Rev. W. C. Tonks tells us that the society which was drawn from Berwick Bassett, Monkton, and Winterbourne has had to under-go unusual persecution. A local lady busybody, the-wife

Mr. Samuel Pickett.

those who withstood her were " made of the right stuff," while those she sheprierded to Church were for the most part " shams and hypocrites." Once she sent her hus-band to break up a camp meeting. In stentorian tones he ordered the congregation to disperse to their homes. The leader was Mr. Edmund Belcher, and looking the captain straight in the face he gave but the hymn

" What a Captain we have got, Is not ours a happy lot Z '

The uoise of the people's singing drowned the captain's voice. The gallant officer would have been more at home facing shot and shell. He struck his colours and vowed never to interfere with such people again, " not for any-body." But the favourite device of the persecutors was to evict those who allowed their cottages to be used for the services. William Rowles told at one anniversary how the little society was turned out of cottage after cottage ; how they were banded about from pillar to post ; how once sufficient money was raised to buy a cottage, but how at the last moment the owner refused to sell. As Moses Pickett's was one of the cottages in which ser-vices were held he did not escape the attention of these persecutors. One of his sons remembers his father telling him how they had to leave one cottage because the owner objected to " Ranters' meetings " being held in the kit-chen. It is characteristic of both father and mother that apparently none of their other children were ever told of this. For both father and mother had that quiet, simple heroism which takes its buffetings without whining ; which .makes a sacrifice - but makes no parade of its sacrifice ; which bears its wounds and hides its scars. And so their own childr-m never heard the full story of their parents' reproaches, necessities, persecu-tions, and distresses for Christ's sake.

But they all heard enough, or saw enough, to make them almost ferocious agitators for rural religious free-dom. The strength of their Nonconformist conviction has never been open to doubt. No one has ever sus-pected a Pickett of being a Free Church copperhead. I believe all the brothers are members of the Liberation Society, which exists to free religion from State patronage and control. When in 1902 Mr. Balfour challenged Eng-lish Nonconformity to mortal combat by his Education Act they all became passive resisters, and something more. One of the strongholds of Passive Resistance was Leicester, and in the Leicester movement Samuel Pickett took a leading part? James Pickett was appointed by the Newcastle Conference to attend the first Passive Resist-ance sale of goods. The first resister was William Smith, of Wirksworth, a Primitive Methodist farmer. After the sale an enthusiastic public meeting was held in the market place, at which Dr. Clifford and James Pickett spoke. These two became comrades in a campaign that is not.yet concluded. James Pickett had been, for years on the Leicester School Board, and this had greatly strengthened his preference for a national rather than a denominational system. He has been secretary of the Connexional Education Committee since its formation. At times he has almost beer. the committee. The struggle for national education is still in progress, though the Free Church Council army has gone into winter quarters and few expect that it will ever take the field again. As a fighting force the Free Church Council has ceased to count. " We shall march prospering but not through its leadership ; songs will inspirit us, but not from its lyre." When next the hosts have .to be mobilised we shall look elsewhere., But whoever flies the standard we shall look for the Picketts in the thick of the fray.

The Challenge at the Pulpit.

The challenge of persecution is a challenge of oppo- sition. The challenge of the pulpit is a challenge of opportunity. The old Brinkworth Circuit was almost unique in its opportunities for the local preacher. In extent of territory it was more like a modern district

fourteen miles by five, and includes nineteen parishes, with a total area of eighty-five miles. It has twenty-two places, and its ministers must cover scores of miles in the course of a week. It has fifty-seven local preachers, but M. Moses Pickett's time the circuit was very much wider and the number of preachers very much greater. Samuel Pickett, of Leicested, has presedved a Brinkworth Circuit plan for 1874. On that plan he himself appears as No. 177. L. L. Morse appears as No. 104. A circuit so situated and so supplied was an ideal environment for the making and training of local preachers. When sojourning in the West of England I remember having described to me the old Brinkworth type of local preacher. The Brinkworth type was regarded as the local preacher par excellend, and of this type Moses Pic-ket was one of the best. The typical Brinkworth local preacher was a man who had had little schodling, but whom you must not put down as illiterate. For, as Dr.- Peaks once reminded us, you cannot call a man illiterate if he has soaked himself in a great literature, and the Bible is a great literature. if the old local preacher knew little else he knew his Bible and he knew his gospel. He had often to fall back on his own experience, but the modern pulpit is much too fearful of telling an experi-ence. Has not Dr. Peake taught us that experience is the medium of Divine Revelation, that all great doctrines, that the Bible itself, are the outcome of religious ex-perience? What we have felt and seen, with confidence we tell. The Brinkworth local preacher was great' in the open air. I take this to be the severest test of a preacher's effectiveness, what happens to him when he stands up to proclaim his gospel in the open-air: In-door preachers may be endured with power from on high. Dr. Magee has divided them into those you can listen to, those you cannot listen to, and those you cannot help listening to. But outdoor preachers must - be those you can listen to or those you cannot help listening to. If an open-air prea-2,her loses grip- cf his congregation it Moves away. He most hold them by his message if he holds them at all. Now all testimony is unanimous that Moses Pickett was a kigly preacher in the open air. This is an incidental tribate to his uptight, consistent Chris-tian life. I have a vivid memory of a voluble open-air speaker who shut up like a concertina when his eye caught one of his creditors standing in a neighbouring doorway. But Moses Pickett could look the whole world-in the face, for his life answered to his message. His con-gregation would sometimes include customers with whom he did business and the employer for whom he worked, but all respected him, not only for what he said, but more for what he was.

At the Mow Cop centenary celebrations in 1910 three of the sons of Moses Pickett took part in the Sabbath services. They were Samuel, James and Henry John. Samuel has followed in his father's footsteps as a local. preacher. By precept and practice he has maintained a high standard for the local preacher. He has had much to do with the working of local preacher associa-tions. He has promoted legislation for the better recog-

,

LafayetEe)

Rev. R. J. Pickett. [Manchester.

nition and training of the local preacher. He took an active part in the arrangements for the Reading Con-ference of 1885. He strongly pressed for a local preachers' meeting to be included in the conference programme, and succeeded in carrying his point. He has several times been delegate to his district meeting and at least twice to conference: He is circuit steward of the Leicester Second. But. it is as a preacher that we have chiefly to speak of him here, and it is no mean tribute to his powers as a preacher that he does not suffer by comparison with —I will not say his more distinguished brothers—but the brothers whom the accident of Connexional position has made more widely known. The other two brothers who were at Mow Cop have often been compared, and will continue to be compared. James Pickett and Henry John Pickett are both great preachers, though great in a different way. It has so happened that they have both been before the same public, sometimes in the same town at the same time. They travelled together in Leicester and each has spent a term in Hull. In these circumstances comparisons were, perhaps, inevitable, though such companions are always difficult and nev_es

TYPE OF SLUMDDIVI.

1..1116 6 'atm

DECEMBER 4, 1913 THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. 855

THE SOUTH-EAST LONDON PRIMITIVE METHODIST MISSION.

A MINISTRY TO THE LOWEST AND WORST. Huddled together here in the South-East of the greatest City the world has seen are tens of thousands of men, women and children. They live in homes of the meanest and most wretched character. In many cases, sleeping, cooking, washing and playing are all done in the same room. When sickness comes, the nerves of the sufferer, tortured by revolting surroundings, bring to physical pain an agony indescribable and renders death a welcome messenger of release. There is no room for the dead but with the living until the day of burial comes. Is it any wonder that men and women are driven to the public house ?

CHILD LIFE IS CRIPPLED FROM BIRTH. Many of the people are in perpetual destitution. Seldom, if ever, do they gaze on a green field. It never falls to their lot to pluck a wild flower or to hear the lark sing. Summer and winter alike they live drab, dull, monotonous lives. When work grows

scarce, as it often does, because a great deal of labour in Bermond-sey is casual, multitudes of these people are plunged into a state bordering on despair. They grow sullen and sour. The iron enters their soul. Their daily ordeal is to return to a wife and family of half. naked and hunger-bitten children, with no money and no food. This is the lot of many in the slums, and so fares many a child from its birth. The world is heartless, cold and unsympathetic; therefore these people In their wretchedness and squalor turn to the representa-tives of Christ, in the hope that they will find sympathy, patience and kindness. They are not dis-appointed. We feed the hungry children, clothe the naked, nourish and nurse the sick, minister to the crippled, and through these minis-tries they hear and answer the call of God, and are devoting their lives to His service. To those who, by gifts of love, both great and small, make it possible for us to minister to the Lord's poor, and to crippled children this Christmas, it will one day be said—" I was hungry and ye (rave me meat ; I was thirsty and ye gave me drink; I was naked and ye clothed me; I was sick and ye

THE WOMEN:5-0VVN MEETING. SISTER:LL5IE ThDRE5SING MISSION STAFF 7 (3istcre...A5pes &a would-be Suicide)

visited me. Inasmuch as ye did

ye did it unto Me." it unto one of the least of these,

TYPE OF OF SERVICE.

HELP IS URGENTLY NEEDED. REY. JOSEPH JOHNSON, St.

Contributions will be gratefully received and acknowledged by the Superintendent—

George's Hall, Old Kent Road, London,

856 THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST ADEIC DECEMBER 4, 1.913

quite successful. Anyone can mark the rough contrast between good and evil, between the capable and the in-capable. But it taxes all the critic's skill to indicate the subtler oppositions, the more delicate diversities of different kinds of good. Some have called James a de-claimer and Henry an expositor. They think of James as like Moses •smiting with plagues and distresses an unjust government, the oppressor of a chosen race. They think of Henry as like Moses bringing refreshment out of hardness, sweetness out of flint. Such contrasts are never quite just to either side. James is a great Scriptural preacher—his father's son could be no other—and Henry's preaching is not all soothing syrup. I have an impression that he would sooner preach a bracing sermon than a soothing one. He has a gracious winsome

Mrs. Benjamin Moore.

disposition, but the graciousness and winsomeness are in the personality more than the preaching. He strikes the warning note as often as the wooing note, and his sermons are a summons to our endeavour as often as a ministry to our need. But they both inherit their father's earnestness, as does the brother who has not yet been here mentioned, Frederick Pickett. Frederick Pic-kett is second to none of his brothers in character, capacity or worth. There are few men in our ministry more con-scientious in pulpit preparation than Frederick Pickett, or snore acceptable to a congregation that has come to know him. He has travelled in Reading, Beverley, and Leicester, but has always been drawn to circuits in and around London.

" Go where he may, rest where he will, Eternal London haunts him still."

He is the " removals " secretary of the London Primitive Methodist Council, and in close and active touch with all phases of London work. Like his brothers, he has been and is a capable, careful and diligent circuit administrator. A Methodist superintendent must not hope to escape the serving of tables or the handling of affairs. If affairs miscarry in his hands his circuit will suffer however shining may ba his pulpit gifts. The final test of success in this ministry is what is a man good for on his own circuit. We can say of the Picketts that they have always left their circuits stronger and better than they found them.

The Challenge of Music. If we may compare, not a small family with a great

one, but a great family with one very much greater, we may say that the Picketts family, like the Wesleys, was both evangelical and musical. As boy and girl both father and mother had been in the Monkton village church choir, she as a singer, he as a player on the flute. He used to tell his boys that he could well remember being called upon to join in singing :—

" God bless the Squire, and all his rich relations, And help the poor to keep their proper stations."

When Sarah James first joined the church choir she was so small that she had to stand on a stool by the leader's side, to be seen as well as heard. At one time the family could make up a complete Christmas carol party and leave the youngest children asleep in their beds. Laura took the soprano, Henry the contralto, Samuel and James the tenor, and father and Frederick the bass. More than one brother is a skilled instrumentalist and both sisters are accomplished vocalists. But the one who has attained to the greatest musical distinction is Samuel, the eldest son. As a musician he is largely self taught. He set himself to master music before a choir had been formed in his own church at Wootton Bassett. When the choir was formed the task of teach-ing fell to him almost as a matter of course. In 1880 he projected a performance of " Judas Maccabeus " by a choir recruited from all the choirs in Wootton Bassett, including that of the Established Church. The project triumphed and the performance was a complete success. Later he moved to Reading and became choirmaster at Friar-street. In 1890 he came to Leicester and became choirmaster at St. Nicholas'-street. He was the founder of the Leicester West End Choral Society, which pre-sented, under the best conditions, the st andard works of Handel, Mendelssohn, Schubert, Weber, Spohr and.

many others: He was chairman of the Music Committee of the Leicester Conference and conducted the United Choir in the 'Temperance Hall. One of his greatest triumphs of conducting was in connection with the Liberation Society's monster demonstration on Mount Sorrell. A choir of four hundred voices, representing all the Free Church choirs in the district and accom-panied by two brass bands, rendered in magnificent style Mozart's " Gloria," Handel's " And the Glory," and " 0 Father, whose Almighty Power " from " Judas." His original compositions include many anthems, one of which, " The Lord is my Shepherd," took an Eisteddfod prize and was favourably reviewed by the " Daily Tele-graph," and two cantatas, " Nehemiah " and " The champion of Ophrah." The choice hymns included in the new hymnal strongly appealed to him, and to many he has written special settings which have become great favourites. But space would fail to tell cf all his musical successes and so, though we cannot finish, we shall have to leave off. But one general remark may be ventured. In writing of the musical achievements of the Picketts one is greatly reminded of Marion Craw-ford's comparison between the Italians and the Ger-mans. The Italians, he said, were soloists, both in their music and their principles. The Germans were a nation of chorus singers and their masters of music did not aspire• to sing themselves, but to conduct the singing of others He believed this to be greatly to the German's advantage. The Picketts have never been contemptible soloists, but their greatest musical triumphs have been to conduct the singing of others. Frank Pickett, the youngest brother, conducts a large and efficient choir at St. Louis, U.S.A. Kate Pickett, now Mrs. Moore, has once wielded the baton, and has trained scores of children for concerts, anniversaries, and missionary events.

The Challenge of Miss!ons.

In the Missionary Report for 1852, under the head if Monkton there is a very interesting entry, or rather series of entries, which have to do with our present sub-ject. There is G. .James's donation, 5s., J. Pickett's do. 5s., and then Mr. Pickett's card, 6s. But there follows another item which is of superlative interest. It reads as follows : " Ditto, moiety of a prize from the Wilts Agricultural Association for superior ploughmanship, £1." That is all, but thereby hangs a tale. Moses Pic-kett had entered for another ploughing match and had made that, as he made everything, a matter of prayer. To his simple faith it was as reverent to ask God to help him with his ploughing as to help him with his preaching. On his knees he promised that if God gave him success one-half the prize money should go to the missionary fund. Arid so it came to pass that this agricultural labourer, whose wages could not be more than twelve shillings a week and were probably less, became a donor of £1. When the mother was told of his vow she heaved •a little sigh. She did not thwart him, but she had thought of other plans. She had planned how the money should be spent for the baby that was coming. When the baby did come he was christened James, and he afterwards became General Missionary Secretary. For many years Moses Pickett was a missionary collector, and I am not sure that he ought not to be enrolled amongst the missionary martyrs, for he died from a chill caught through attending a missionary meeting when he was not physically fit. No wonder that with all his children missionary enthusiasm burns as a fire in their bones. James Pickett proved one of our greatest missionary administrators.' Along with Alderman Linfield he went as the first official deputation to the West African Missions. In their report the deputation made several valuable suggestions which were adopted, and greater

Mrs. H. Bride Barbet. Mr. Frank Pickett (Australia). (America).

prosperity followed. It left James Pickett with a more fervent missionary passion and with a fresh sense of the spell of the tropics. He has said that were he a few years younger the best circuit in England would not hold him from the tropics. His call to the Presidency in 1908 was in part a recognition of his missionary statesman-ship. When he was appointed Hartley Lecturer for 1913 it was taken for granted that his subject would be mis-sions. It is fitting that his book should be on the missionary crisis and it is characteristic that so .much of it should be taken up with the missionary challenge, at home and abroad.

From Cottage to College. When the college was moved from Sunderland to Man-

chester the first principal was James Macpherson, and one of the first students was Henry. John Pickett. Like all his brothers, he had been apprenticed to the grocery business, but had heard the call to the ministry of the Word. By great perseverance and self-sacrifice he secured the advantage of a college term, and came up to Manchester just as the new institute was opened. His college companions were T. Bright, T. Parsons, J. John-

son, T. Edwards, W. Kennett, G. H. pouthall, E. Plummer, J. A. Boothroyd, and J. T. Ecob. Probably, none of the little group which gathered in that modes beginning of a college ever anticipated the dimensions to which that institute was destined to grow. Thanks, however, to the princely munificence of Sir William Hartley and the distinguished scholarship of Dr. Peaks and his colleagues, Primitive Methodists have now a college, which in buildings and equipment, is second to none. As a former principal Once put it, Sir William Hartley has given the college its local habitation, and Dr. Peake has given it its name. When Henry John Pickett left college at the end of the year (for a year at that time was all that was allowed) he probably little expected ever to return. least of all to return as Prin-

Rey. F. Pickett.

cipal. And yet in some ways his life has been an uncoil', scions preparation for his present . position. After a varied ministry in Norwich, Walsall, Leicester, and Hull, he went to Kettering-road, Northampton, where he re-mained thirteen years. Kettering-road Church prides itself on having trained two college principals. It certainly presents opportunities for sustained exposition such as are open to few ministers or churches. Of these opportunities our present principal took full advantage. He gave his full strength to the work of exposition, and it helped him to acquire the aptitude to teach. His expositions of the International Lessons have been a great boon to many a hard-pressed teacher, and his lesson helps in the " Leader " are read by many who read little else. In guiding the destinies of our theological institute for the allotted span of a connexional officer's life he enters on his greatest task. Not the least of his respon-sibilities will be to see that the men are encouraged to stir up the preaching gift that is in them. For though a man can read in the tongues of men and of angels, and has all knowledge, and can understand all mysteries, if he cannot preach, as a Primitive Methodist minister it profiteth. him but a little. We give God thanks for our scholars. We live on our preachers. Principal Pickett has always been greatest as a preacher. He has always believed and practised the doctrine that _nothing can ever be too good for a Primitive Methodist pulpit. The students who pass under his influence will always have before them the example and stimulus of an exalted pulpit ideal.

The Daughters who Prophesy. It is pretty generally known that not only have three

sons of the family become Primitive Methodist ministers, but the two daughters have become ministers' wives. Laura Pickett married the Rev. H. Bride Barber, of Victoria, Australia ; Kate Pickett married the Rev. B. Moore, now of Ashton-under-Lyne. And it is also known to many that the daughters have served their generation as worthily as ministers' wives as their brothers have as ministers. Before she became Mrs. Barber, 'Laura Pickett was head mistress of a Norwich Council school. I hardly dare to think how this bears on the question of secular education, but it would appear that she made her greatest impressions by her Scripture lessons in the day school. Mrs. J. W. Venables, of Oldham, writes : " Her Scripture lessons to the upper standards in the day, school were the best in point of illustration, exposition, and appeal I ever heard. It was. through her personal influence and teaching at the day school- that I, and I believe many others, were led to decide for Christ. Within this last few months people have spoken to me of those wonderful Scripture lessons she gave in the day school so many years ago." Mrs. Venables also bears testimony to her winning personality, to her inspiring influence, and to her varied services to the Queen's-road Church. In Victoria her praise is in all the churches. She is also a preacher, and one of the best preachers in the colony. Her sister, Mrs. Moore, draws the line at preaching, but is very much in request for Sunday-schools, young people's meetings, B.W.T.A. meetings, ladies' missionary meetings, and other gatherings, a!, which she thinks it seemly for a woman to speak. am in some doubt as to what some people think of Mr. Moore, but I am in no doubt whatever as to what they think of his wife. I have seen lips quiver and WO.

moisten at the mention of her name. She is not the kind of woman whom a circuit Mrs. Proudie would twice try to treat as an ecclesiastical general servant, for, like all Picketts, she rises to a challenge. But the challenge that calls forth her whole heart, and mind, and soul, and strength, is the challenge of the children. It is because of her work amongst the children that she is so greatly beloved. Wherever she goes she puts her hand on the children's heads, and, therefore, on the parents' hearts. When she and her husband were leaving their first circuit a little• child was observed in great distress. She said she was crying because Mrs. Moore was leaving. But after the juniors' meeting the tears were all brushed away ; the little face was wreathed in smiles, and she said, " It's all right, mother. We've given Mrs. Moore a present, and now Mr. Moore is going away, but Mrs. Moore is going to stop." Once when I stayed there I picked up a book which her husband had presented to her, and in which he had written some verses :—

Through sunny days', and on through stormy weather, Yet ever hand in hand, Beloved Wife,

We two have walked'our quiet way together, Along the dusty road of common life.

" Bright were the vistas on the journey seen, And dark the valleys of the shadow lay,

But your dear love, ,like Israel's God, has been, My light in darkness and my shade by day.

" I cannot give you what a student ought, Learning or wit or insight for the true,

I but transcribe what you have daily taught, The spirit of the Master seen in you."

The lines are not original, and many will be able to say where he has found them and ,low freely he has quoted them. But if the language is borrowed the sentiments are his own. And they represent a tribute that hundreds of Primitive Methodist ministers wculd gladly pay to their faithful and devoted wives. They have to ascribe all they are or ever hope to be to the woman who has never failed them, but who has always given them love, sympathy, and stimulus at home. The French have a proverb that a man must have his wife's permission to go very far, and nowhere is that more true than in the work of the ministry. Not until the books are opened can Primitive Methodism ever know all it owes to its ministers' wives.

THE SCHOLAR'S BRIDE. Eg6g6gea

DECEMBER 4,,1913 THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. 857

What .walks and talks they had when he was home for the vacations ! Never once was he conscious of superiority, Often she seemed to be soaring, above his head. ..She was reading in fields of which he was almost ignorant., There was little he knew which she did not understand., She would have loved to have told him of all her doings. Once she heard her nom de plume from his lips, and was amused to hear that his mother had been reading one of her stories.

There were curious cross-currents in the bank-manager'S home. Bert was in Bridgetown, the subject of many, laudatory notes in the local newspapers and the recipient of constant friendly congratulations. As a B.D. of Man-chester University he was a scholar of distinction. And he had come home to claim his bride. Reluctantly, and at the last moment, his father and mother had consented to their union. They loved their son too well to stand in the way of what he regarded as his happiness, but their. hearts were sore, their thoughts were bitter. They had been obliged to receive Miss Heald into their circle, but she had been conscious of the chilL It was for Berta sake she suffered the indignity.

On his mother's table she caught sight of " The,Scholar'd Bride." It needed all her nerve to maintain coinposure. How splendidly its publication, had been timed.,! How thankful she was that the reviewers had praised it so warmly, • and that already its success was assured ! Her literary name was now widely known. All her secret dreams were coming true. Her gladness was a thrill of gratitude and pride.

Of course, Mr. Freeman came to conduct the wedding service. Robert Jewitt frowned at the sight of the market- gardener leading his daughter up the aisle. His wife had nothing of pride in the nuptials of her son. What should have been the happiest day in their hopes for Bert was shadowed for them with disappointment and disapproval.

It was Mr. Freeman who proposed the toast to the happy pair and made the dramatic disclosure. Nothing could have been finer than his tribute to the scholar.

"We are all proud of the bridegroom," lie smilingly began. "We have known him from boyhood and watched his career with ever-growing interest and faith. He has brought honour to his parents, to his Church, and to the town. To have won two degrees and made a place for himself in our ministry is an honourable achievement for one so young. Best of all, we admire his disposition, his openness and kindness, and all the fine loyalty he has shown to the ideals of his youth."

Here he paused and his eyes fell on the bride's shining face. All his heart went out to her in affectionate admira-tion.

" But what of the bride, the Scholar's Bride ?" he con-tinued. " She is the Scholar's Bride. From girlhood we have known her. What a faithful daughter she has been! How her father and mother will miss her ! How you will miss her in the church and Sunday-school ! What wealth of mind she has to give to her husband ! Even he does• not know what a distinguished bride he has. You did not know that there was a mystery about her. Ah ! the clique have kept the secret well. This is the day when she must be known for all she is. Our Scholar's Bride, whom we knew as Helen Heald, is also known in the world of letters as 'Helen Faithful,' the authoress of The. Scholar's Bride,' the book of the hour." The speaker stopped in blank surprise at the consterna-

tion his words created. Bert's face had first blanched and then reddened.

Finally his eyes were fixed on the loved one's at his side. Could it be true ? Was he dreaming ?

As for his father and mother, they were speechless with amazement. Chagrin, anger, humiliation, swiftly suc-ceeded each other ; then, as the minister proceeded, all the generous impulses came to the rescue, and they were glad in the strange, new joy which had come to their son.

They have often chided her since. "I once told Bert that you were sly," was the bank-

manager's playful reproach, " and this was the proof of it" ; but in his heart there is pride—pride in his son distinguished as a scholar, and pride in "The Scholar's Bride," who in secret had come to fame..

By RAMSAY

6A6A@

ci156g

" We do not need to discuss the subject any further, Bert. Yjour mother and fare of one mind on the matter. We absolutely object to any engagement between you and Miss Heald, and,' as for pledging yourself to her at this stage in your career, the idea cannot be considered for a moment. Take my advice, my boy ! Go to college and take advantage of the University ! Win your degree ! Never mind the girls for some years to come ! .When you get into the ministry and. into circuit work, you will have plenty of opportunities for choice. Look up, my boy ! A. degree man should have the pick anywhere. I've got nothing to say against Miss Heald, but her people are nobodies. • In a few years you will be far ahead of her. While you are leaping up, she will be stagnating in her father's garden. Seven years from now the disparity between you will be more evident even than now. All this I have said before. Let it suffice ! Take the docu-ments back to Mr. Freeman, and say that you have no engagement relative to marriage ! "

" But I have, father ! Helen and I perfectly understand each other. She has promised to wait for me."

" Tut, tut ! You are 'a minor, remember ! Fancy a lad of twenty signing himself away for the next seven years ! Miss Heald may be sly, but I have lived and learnt."

The hot Mood flamed the cheeks of his son. These were cutting gibes to hear. With commendable self-suppres-, sion he answered his father :

"I suppose you do not mean to be unkind or unjust, but I resent your judgment of Helen. I will do as you say, however. Helen and I will not bind ourselves with written pledges, but we are vowed to each other neverthe-less."

Bert Jewitt was a candidate for the Methodist ministry. Since boyhood this had been his dream. His parents had joyfully fostered the thought, and all his schooling had converged to this point. Special training he had received at the Grammar School, and he had already matriculated. When just in his 'teens he had accompanied the preachers. He had all the gifts for the ministerial life. Without much difficulty he had passed the preliminary examina-tions, and now the time had come for him to be definitely recommended by the circuit authorities.

It is the peculiarity of the Methodists that all can-didates for the ministry are questioned about their love- affairs. If there are definite engagements, the facts must be stated on the official form, and both parties must sign the declaration of fealty. In addition, the church autho- rities must express their verdict as to the suitability or otherwise of the lady concerned to be a minister's wife. Pains and penalties have often befallen the men who violated these matrimonial undertakings.

The son of Bridgetown's bank-manager and the daughter of the market-gardener had been boy and girl sweethearts. Now, in youth and maidenhood, they were all in all to each other. It. seemed to them so slight a thing that his home was a villa and hers a cottage. Helen had been quite his compeer at the day-school, and now as a teacher she was helping to support the house. Into all his youthful dreams she had ardently and lovingly entered. She believed that he would reach the top. There was no height above the flight of her faith. And that he should be a minister, surely that was the noblest and highest calling. She had heard him preach his trial sermon, and could have repeated it almost word for word. To many of his subsequent sermons she had listened. She had all the texts marked in her Bible, with the dates as marginal notes. Even the hymns he had chosen were indicated in her hymnal. She exulted in the possibilities of hii career. He had explained to her the whole pro-cedure he world need to follow and never a doubt sug-gested itself to her mind. The years could only bring success and honour.

It was not easy for him to tell her why their engage-ment could not come within the cognisance of the circuit leaders. His pride in her and his filial love collided. Not a word he breathed to his father's discredit, but she understood.

"Probably your father is right, Bert," she sedately observed. "You may be better free. You might find the pledge a fetter."

GUTHRIE.

SC @6) Eg6XgO,

. He had silenced her with reproaches and affirmations. She trusted his every word. They were one in their love, and theirs was the perfect love that casteth out all fear.

His parents were much relieved that the documents would go forward without any matrimonial pledge. Time was on their side. The years would silently accomplish what their antagonism had failed to achieve. When Bert was away from Bridgetown, associating with collegians and graduates, he would soon forget the girl of his boyish fancy. And, by and by, when he became a minister and was serving his four probationary years, he would have access to thousands of homes. He would meet hundreds of eligible girls. They fully believed that the day would come when he would fervently thank them. for saving him from the gravest misalliance.

The minister spoke his mind, even though Robert Jewitt was the steward of the circuit.

" My dear sir," Mr. Freeman said, " was it not my duty to question your son ? He is the candidate, not you, and I never sign documents in the dark. There is certainly an understanding between Bert and Miss Heald, though, as you say, there is no formal engagement. I admire her very much. The girl is full of gift. She will go far when she comes to the knowledge of herself. All that I can say is that Bert will be a lucky chap if he wins her. I hope to live to see the day."

The bank-manager scowled. For a moment he was glad that Methodist ministers were itinerants. In a year or two Mr. Freeman would be gone. It is the truth that when Bert had gone to Manchester his parents were much relieved. The real secret of their satisfaction was his separation from Helen Heald. . More and more the girl turned to the minister. He

knew of her love for Bert, and she felt that he approved. She was welcomed at the manse, and became the bosom friend of Mrs. Freeman. The minister fed her intel-lectual as well as her spiritual life, and was startled repeatedly at her flashes of wisdom and genius.

"Now you will keep my secret ?" and her eyes were pleading and herlones were grave. She had brought the MSS. of three short stories for Mr. Freeman's. perusal.

From girlhood she had longed to write. Now that she was lonely all the depths within her were stirred. She found the art of self-expression.

All her nerves were tingling in the silence of the study while the minister was reading the sheets. More than once he glanced up at her with wondering eyes.

" Why, these are splendid ! " was his hearty verdict. " My dear girl, there's. no knowing what you can do. You certainly have the gift. How long have you been busy in this way ?"

There were a hundred things to consider. She wanted his advice about the magazines for which such stories would be suitable. , She invited his criticisms so that the MSS. might be' improved. Again and again she urged her plea for secrecy.

"I do not want anyone to know, except my parents, and you, and, of course, Mrs. Freeman. I do not intend to tell Bert. Father and mother will never breathe it, and I know that you will both be true to me."

He had cautioned her to be patient. Quite a long time might elapse before she heard the editor's decision. And she was to be in no wise disheartened if fortune did not favour her at once. She schooled herself to waiting.

Her success was almost immediate. Mr. Freeman had advised her well. She had offered her work just 'where it was acceptable. That morning she forgot her breakfast in her eagerness to show the editor's letter to her minister before going to school. The literary door was open to her, and all its boundless possibilities intoxicated her mind.

They called themselves the " clique," the five who shared the secret of "Helen Faithful's " identity.

Three years flew by. Bert had won his Arts degree and had been appointed to one of the Manchester circuits. This was indeed a compliment to his preaching gifts as well as to his academic achievement. He was full of plans for the next three years. He meant to study for the B'D. Winning that, his probation would be shortened by a year.

Helen Heald was still the love of his heart. She responded to every appeal of his mental and spiritual life.

" God's Fellow Workers." By Rev. C. B. Keenleyside, B.A., B.D. (Morgan and Scott. ls. net.)

This book is of priceless value. We would not be with-out it for five times ;ts ccst. It glows and sparkles with gems of thought that arrest and hold you. It supplies information, suggestion, and inspiration that render it invaluable to speakers at missionary meetings or meet-ings for the deepening of spiritual life. It is a liVe book on burning questions of interest to all who seek to extend the Kingdom of God at home or abroad.—F.

" Modern Substitutes for Traditional Christianity," by Edmund McClure, M.A. • (S.P.C.K. 2s. net.)

Into this book of 145 pp. he author has packed a great deal of most useful and luminous thought. Of the many substitutes for 'Christianity on offer he selects six for criticism and exposure. These are Non-miraculous Christianity, Mysticism Divorced from Dogma, Modern Theosophy, Christian Science, the Cult of the Superman, and Secularism' and Rationalism. A third of the book is devoted to a most searching and damaging examination of ChristiaP Science and Theo. sophy, both of American origin. The champions of these aberrations are very severely and deservedly trounced These criticisms, while scholarly, are expressed in simple language, and the ordinary reader will readily understand them. Canon McClure's service to Chris-tian literature has been largely as a translator. This book demonstrates his fitness and ability for original work. The rank and file of Christian people need such a book as this, and its influence will be all for good.--

R. W. K.

ci58 THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. DECEMBER 4, 1813

THE CHRISTMAS BABY. ********************

By C. E. DOE. ********************

little letters enough—but she never came to them ; the proud old grandfather saw to that.

He was grateful to them, of course ; with a gratitude that he would fain have expressed by a cheque of most amazing value, had- they been willing -to receive it. But for the rest, these people, worthy as they were, and generously as they had acted by the child, were not of hiS world. Socially, politically, and religiously between his household and theirs there was " a great gulf fixed.". And besides, there were growing sons in the family, and —well, where one's future heiress is concerned, it is always better to be on the safe side.

So the letters were dated now from some Parisian boarding school or fashionable Continental resort, and later on from a certain stately house in a London square, where at length the old grandfather lay dying, with his granddaughter as his sole support and comfort.

Then the letters ceased for a while, and there came only a solitary telegram, stating that the old man had passed peacefully away. . . .

It wanted barely a month to Christmas when the tele-gram arrived, and it was Christmas Eve when the door of the room in which the minister's entire household were assembled in honour of the festive season, was suddenly opened from without, and the Christmas baby walked in., If indeed it could really be the Christmas baby after all, this tall, handsome figure in mourning attire, who sprang, half-laughing, half-crying, right into the very arms of the fragile little woman.in the-old armchair, with the glad, triumphant cry : " Oh mother, mother ! I've come home! "

So the Christmas baby some back again once more, back to the old simple life of loving service, alike in the family, the Sunday-school, and the Church. Came back with tender, softened memories of the old man whose tottering footsteps she had been permitted at last to guide from the very brink of the grave to the Cross of the Saviour, in Whom while yet a little child she herself had learned to trust. Came back, in short, to lay alike her beauty, talents, wealth, and service at the feet of that other Babe of Christmastide, of the story of Whose coming, pray God that this old world of ours may never tire..

New Books for the Home.

The Wesleyan Publishing House deserve the gratitude of all for the splendid books they are putting upon the market. Two of their latest should not be missed. " The Education of Patsy O'Shay," by George A. Parkinson (2s. 6d.) is a lively story. Patsy is an adventurous Irish boy in a city slum. His parents are drunken, and Patsy has to live by his wits. He comes under the influence of a Sister in charge of a Mission, and soon learns that lying is wrong. He swears off this bad habit, and many another, and develops splendidly. At last he is cham-pion winner of a big motor test. The whole story grips. There is plenty of fun and exciting incident, and abundant evidence of the power of religion, when incar-nated in thoroughly earnest people. " In Rhodes' Land," by E. C. Rundle Woolcock (3s. 6d.), is a fascinating book It contains striking pictures of life in Rhodesia, and tells of the disguises too often assumed by the people to be found there. The central figures are two women travellers, who exert a fine Christian influence on all sorts of men whom they meet. How the younger woman found her true lover and lost him almost the day after in the Victoria Fall rapids makes a thrilling, episode. Those who read it will 'be inspired to became better men and women.

" The Bridge Builders," by Annie S. Swan. Hodder and Stoughton. (3s. 6d.). The output of books by this gifted authoress is amazing, and this newest one can be reckoned as one of her very best. It tells of a young . woman, the last representative of an old Scottish family, owning estates in the Highlands, yet very poor. She became engaged to a rich American—a bridge builder. They agree not to see each other for a year. On the day appointed for their meeting, she learns that he has been compelled to return to America, owing to a bridge having collapsed. With the bridge his reputation went and much besides, and he wrote a letter, saying he must give up all thoughts of marrying her. But true love wins through, and in due time they become husband and wife. It is a fascinating story, and a long one—and not a page too many.

" The Workers' Daily Round," by Charles Watney and James A. Little. George Routledge and Sons. (3s. 6d.). For those who would get a glimpse of the life of the toilers, here is a welcome book. The writers-give an in-teresting and homely description of the daily work of the postman, taxi-cab driver,' porter, soldier, sailorman, signalman, engine driver, fireman, nurse, carpenter, elec-trician, farm labourer, coal miner, engineer, docker, lighterman, tram conductor, cotton spinner, tea-shop waitress, woollen weaver, shipwright, policeman, potter. There are eight -full-page plates, and the 354 pages are full of useful information.

" The Spirit of the West," by Joseph Hocking. Cassell and Co. (3s. 6d.). The name of the author is a sufficient guarantee that the story will be fascinating. A London Journalist, suffering from nervous breakdown, is ordered out West, and gets to Cornwall. Wandering about, he comes upon a village that, somehow, he feels he has seen before. Before long he finds out that his ancestors had once lived there—in the big manor house—but had lost the place through drink and gambling. The invalid resolves to win the estate back. How eventually he woos and wins the present heiress is a story good to read, and that will add to the already great popularity of the

author. " The Herald of Mercy Annual." (Morgan and Scott.

ls.) is a helpful collection of stories and paragraphs set-ting forth the great evangelical truths of the Gospel, and would prove a mine for anyone in search of illustrations for talks to children or addresses to adults,

to the sick-room. His wife was worse, delirium had once more set in.

"Father ! father ! Couldn't we show the baby to mother, just for one little minute? Mother will soon get well again - now that God has sent her another little baby, won't she, father ?"

The children's voices were very eager and pleading, and just for one instant the minister hesitated. And then without a word he turned and lifted the sleeping child in his arms.

She had raised herself up in bed, and was calling wildly for her baby, her darling, - as the minister entered the sick-room with his little charge. And something in that entrance arrested her wandering attention, for she sank back upon her pillows in a moment, and stretched out her poor, wasted arms to receive the little white bundle.

And so it was that the_doctor, coming in half an hour later, found her calmly sleeping with the little one still clasped to her bosom.

" Thank God, the crisis is safely over," he said ; "the child has saved her."

So the Christmas baby stayed on, and from that hour the wife and mother steadily recovered. For even after full consciousness and memory had alike returned, though she still mourned deeply and tenderly for her own lost little one, yet that other baby form, so like in size and apparent age, had, during those first few hours of semi-oblivion, insensibly crept into the aching void of the mother heart, and filled the terrible emptiness of the. yearning mother arms.

So the children had their Christmas after all, for mother grew better with each succeeding day, while all sad and painful memories were • resolutely kept by both parents alike from clouding the children's gladness—thanks at least in part to that single glimpse into two sore and desolate little hearts, that. the story of the finding of the Christmas baby had afforded them. .-

And no one . came to claim the little one, and the ,children never once doubted that their divinely suggested prayer had been miraculously answered, and that the Christmas baby had fallen from the skies. For not till long years afterwards did their father tell them that the local authorities in searching the park next morning, had come across the lifeless body of a woman, lying at the very portals of the old deserted mansion which stood in its midst. She had appeared to be a foreigner, and there had been a wedding ring upon the slim white hand. And if indeed the child had been hers, it would almost have seemed that she had lain it down through sheer weakness and exhaustion, the while she had dragged her weary limbs in search of some possible refuge or shelter, since "Death from heart failure, accelerated by privation and exhaustion " had been the verdict at the inquest that had followed.

And so the long, slow weeks and months and years rolled by, and the Christmas baby never lost her early prestige. For while as time passed on other children came to enliven the minister's busy household, no other " daughter " ever appeared to dispute her claim as such upon the affections of the entire family. And as the boys began to pass from childhood to youth and early man-hood, many a time did father and mother alike thank God for the winsome presence and softening influence of the bonnie little maiden who had come to them in so strange a way and manner, during that otherwise dark and desolate Christmastide. For it was not until after the Christmas baby had passed her fourteenth successive Christmas beneath the sheltering roof of her adopted parents that the great blow fell. And it fell in the coming of a stately, white-haired gentleman, who claimed her as his own and only grandchild.

It was a painful story that he had to tell—the old, old story of a prodigal son, who, after long years of wandering in a ." far country," had crept back at last to his father's house to die. And he told how that that son in dying had confessed to the sin which was even then darkening and embittering his last conscious moments. For he had spoken of a marriage contracted long years before with a young Swiss girl, whom he had subsequently deserted, together with her infant daughter. And he had told, too, how that years afterwards, when he had found himself face to face with death in a foreign land, the memory of that wife and child had haunted him both day and night. And so, before starting for England, he had gone back to the little Swiss village where he had left her, only to discover that, finding herself abandoned and well nigh destitute, she had attempted to make her way to the only address of his that she knew, that of a house in England in which he had at one time resided.

The rest of the story had been only a matter of conjec. ture at first. But one thing had been certain even then, that had she managed to succeed in her attempt it could only have been to find the house in question untenanted and deserted.

The son had died within a few hours of his tragic con fession, but with such a clue in his hand, the father had found his quest comparatively easy. And filially it had brought him to the merry household where one winsome maiden reigned supreme over a family of sturdy boys. For the house toward which the forsaken wife had wended her weary way was the deserted mansion in the grounds of which the Christmas baby had been found, more than thirteen long years before.

So the Christmas baby was borne away to a life of wealth and grandeur, and for six whole years the minister's household knew her no more. It was true that they heard from her from time to time—tender, loving

" Won't we have any Christmas at all then, Clive?" It was the minister's six-year-old son who asked the question, gazing up at his brother the while with wistful grey eyes from which the tears were not very far distant.

" I guess not, Ceddie," Clive answered bravely ; " not this year, you know, because of mother and baby." " But, Clive "—and the face of the younger child was awed and puzzled—" baby wouldn't mind ; baby's in heaven-now, father -said so, and I guess Jesus'll give her a real proper Christmas up there.

Clive looked a little doubtful. His notion of heaven was nearly as material as Ceddie's, only, well, at eight one scarcely associates heaven with Santa Claus and presents and stockings.

Well, you see, Ceddie," he said slowly, " it isn't only just about baby—it's mother." For Clive at least was old enough to understand something of the meaning of the Clark and heavy cloud that had hung over the little manse ever since that terrible afternoop, nearly a fortnight ago now, when the stranger gentleman had carried baby in, the pretty dimpled face no longer flushed and radiant, the little tripping tongue so strangely silent, and the little hands and feet for ever still.

It had all been so sudden, co terribly. nnexpected, the straying of those little restless feet through the open garden gate into the road beyond, the sudden whiz of a motor-car, and then, the bringing in of the little lifeless form that was baby no longer, since baby had gone to be with God. And mother ! Poor mother had been ill and helpless even then, else those little feet might never have strayed, and now—why, ever since that day she had just lain upon her bed hovering—so Clive had overheard the doctor say—between life and death. Little wonder, then, that the near approach of Christmas was well nigh forgotten in that stricken household, and that even the children's voices and footsteps had been alike hushed and subdued.

But upon this particular afternoon as these two remain-ing little ones played together in the stately old park that lay just beyond the limits of the manse garden, the natural buoyancy of childhood had at length reasserted itself in wistful longings for the joys that might have been.

" I wish God would send mother another little baby to . make her well again," Ceddie suggested presently. " Oh, Clive, don't you think He might for a Christmas present, you know ; let's ask Him when we say our prayers to-night."

It was not a bad suggestion certainly, so Clive was fain to admit.

" We might ask Him now," he amended slowly, " in our heads you know, without kneeling down."

So the childish petition was offered by each in silence, and then, mindful at last of the gathering shadows, the children turned toward home. And then it was that the wonderful thing happened. For all in a moment Clive caught sight of something white lying at the foot of a fine old tree, and with a sudden cry he rushed toward it. And by the time that his younger brother could reach him, he was standing in awed silence, gazing down at a little white bundle, from out the soft, warm folds of which was peeping the face of a little child, but newly aroused from sleep.

" Oh, Clive! " gasped Ceddie in mingled awe and delight, " it's the new little baby-sister that God has sent us for Christmas. Oh, won't mother be pleased ! "

The little stranger, who could barely toddle, was not in the least shy, and only gurgled with baby delight when the children's wheelbarrow was emptied of all its previous contents, and she was carefully placed therein.

No other person was in sight, so that there was no one to interrupt the little procession as it wended its home-ward way. But when the two. children, proudly guiding the uncertain steps of their new-found treasure, entered the study where their father sat with bowed head, alone with his grief and the terrible dread that overshadowed him, he listened to their joyful story with no small degree of consternation. For the little stranger was no ordinary outcast, both face and garments proclaimed that ; while it was equally obvious that so fragile a creature could not be again relegated to the now dark and deserted park. But he was very gentle with all three children, nevertheless, • for something in the simple little story touched him inexpressibly, while the clasp of the tiny hands about his neck, and the touch of the soft, little cheek against his own, as he lifted the little toddler in his arms, could, not fail to bring back to him tender, hallowed memories of the little one that he had loved and lost.

So the baby was placed in a high chair, and regaled with bread and milk, while the boys addressed themselves with but divided attention to their tea, and their father proceeded upon his way to the village to make inquiries and give due information. But all inquiries were un-availing, and upon his return he found that his little guest was already sound asleep, comfortably reposing upon the sitting-room sofa. It was something of a dilemma to be in, he was practical enough to realise that. For, though, with the memory of that other little baby form so fresh upon him, he shrank instinctively from the notion of the workhouse or the police station ; yet, with an afflicted wife, a young, inexperienced servant, and only the friendly offices of a kindly neighbour to supervise the whole household, what other course was possible?

And, yet, perhaps, just for this one night—if only in honour of the children's faith.

But even as he pondered there came a hasty summons

DECEMBER 4, 1913 THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. 85')

WHITEeIRAPEL MISSION. Centres (1) Brunswick Hall ; (2) Working Lads' Institute and Home ; (3) Seaside Home of Rest.

Reader ? Wiii you hole us by sending a Gift in aid of our

Christmas Treat to Slum Children, Poor Cripples, Orphan Lads,

Homeless Men, and Poor Widows and Fatherless Children?

WHAT WHITECHAPEL IS DOING.

It provides dinners for necessitous children five days per week.

Supplies penny dinners to men out of work Helps poor costers with stock.

Distributes clothing to the needy.

Has a Poor Man's Lawyer.

Renders medical aid to afflicted poor.

Cares for crippled children.

Entertains deserving cases free at the Seaside Home of Rest.

Shelters and provides for homeless orphan lads.

WORKING LADS' INSTITUTL

Whitechapel Mission receives no grant from any Connexions' Fund. It is dependent unon

the free-will ofFerings of those who sympathise with its rescue work.

WHAT HAS BEEN DONE. 128,000 Cases assisted by the Medical Mission.

50,000 Free Suppers given to homeless men.

16000 men provided with Free Night Shelter

and Food.

1,650 homeless lads and juvenile offenders ,admitted to Home.

Many thousands of poor children supplied with

Free Meals. WHAT HE WAS. WHAT ft. I,.

WHAT WE WISH TO DO. Give a Meal and Entertainment to 1,000 waifs,

and so afford them cheer at Christmas.

Gather in homeless men and give to upwards of 100 a Christmas Dinner.

Provide a Meat Tea for 300 poor womei.

Make the orphan lads in our Rescue Home happy on Christmas Day and Boxing Day.

He'p poor, sweated workers and their families to a dinner on Christmas Day.

Supply a Parcel of Grocery, a Gift of Coal, and CID hing to the Starving.

WHAT WILL YOU DO ? Any gift will be welcome.

A donation small or large.

A parcel of cast-off garments.

A few toys or Christmas cards for the bairns.

A gift of provisions, all, all, will cheer the workers

and help the poor of

Whitechapel.

THE MAYOR OF STEPNEY VISITING THE POOR CHILDREN'S DINNER AT BRUNSWICK HALL.

HOMELESS MEN AT A WEEKLY PREE SLIPPER.

KINDLY REMEMBER THE POOR OF WHITECHAPEL SLUMS WHEN YOU HAVE YOUR CHRISTMAS , ENTERTAINMENTS AND HAPPY SOCIAL GATHERINGS.

Your Contribution will be gratefully received and acknowledged by—

Rev. THOMAS JACKSON, 279, Whitechapel Road, London, E.

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CONCERNING A COMMON COMPLAINT.

Of all common ailments perhaps Constipation is the one most fruitful of ill-health and a potent cause of disease in a variety of forms. Too frequently neglected (especially by women) it may result in grave consequences, and all who suffer from it in any degree should set about establishing a permanent cure without delay. Failure of the bowels to act properly results in poisonous accumulations, impure blood, sluggish Wer, and a great number of disorders such as headaches, nervous debitity, anemia, loss of energy, and even diseases of a chronic and dangerous nature. If you are troubled with this really serious complaint do not regard it. as a light matter, and

remember that the cure may be surely and speedily effected by means of

Wm. P. HARTLEY'S

REMEMBER YOUR KENDS, APARTMENTS, &c.

" A man who takes himself seriously."

:-DECEMBER- 4, 1913 THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. 861

What a great deal of interest life would lose if we were all disembodied spirits! Or if our forms were machine-made, cast with meticulous regularity and uniformity from a mould—even though it might be a celestial one! Assemble your friends before your mental eye and you will find that in almost every instance they present them-selves with some peculiar and personal trick of gesture or pose or facial expression—one with his legs apart and his hands behind him, another with a restless movement of the eyebrows, another with a whimsical side tilt of the head. These are the distinguishing marks which, in many cases, we come to love, as eloquent of personality ; more than words can ever do, they betray character and stamp on our mind the individuality of those we meet.

But let us come to the point—the pencil's point ! There is a little invisible imp- who dwells in the point of this pencil (I am not going to give away its brand), and who wakes into mischievous activity at the sight of a human face. He, sends wireless messages along the shaft and into my hand, and through my arm to the brain such as, " Look at the lovely curve of that nose ! " or " Note how comically that eyelid droops ! " or " What a deliciously frizzy tuft of whisker ! " What can one do but heed and come to his aid? Mischievous he is, but, I think, always good-humoured, kin to Shakespeare's Ariel rather than to the uncertain leprechaun of Ilish lore. Malice, if I may plead for him, is not in his eye, nor, though the rascal frequently exaggerates, does he wilfully lie. For, leaving the sedater kind of portraiture to imps such as my friend " Lucidus " better knows, he tries, through those little tricks of face and figure we spoke of just now, to get at the personality and educe the inner man. Shall we give him a trial for the space of a column or two? There are some faces and figures he may practise on which are familiar to most of us, and to many, perhaps, familiar with a warm regard. Come to the point, gentlemen, come to the point! . . .

Here is our old friend and ex-preacher, Mr. Henshaw, an attractive mark, with the small, delicately-moulded .rams and the aresting head with its large, smooth top. The varied play of the mobile features is

a little distract-ing at first, and the imp pauses in doubt. In repose there is a hint of sad-ness, the ghost of a long and

'chequered expe-rience the lips a little com-pressed. the eyes a trifle melan-choly, though the perpetual cheery play of smiles has moulded the cheeks to ineradicably be-nignant curves. Again, see him in the pulpit and the lips become golden with some passage of impassioned elo-quence, the eyes lose every trace of melancholy and sparkle with the fire of his theme, till one dreams of Paul, who was one of the world's great souls in a small setting. Ah!

"Some quaint canceit . seasoned now _ f es,

h for this

i p

with the Attic sat." decides, is characteristic. The eyes have a

;winkle now, and the crow's feet deepen. Some quaint tonceit, some whimsical quip, seasoned with the Attic salt, has just occurred to him, and you are to have the benefit of it with just the briefest questioning glance to

follow to see if you have caught the full flavour. His humour is droll and dry, and in chatty converse the speech is deliberate and measured, with a half-pathetic intonation in it. He is of a sensitive and generous spirit ;

a little kindness will touch him deeply, and he delights to discover worth in hidden places. Loving his church intensely he has tried to serve her to the utmost of his power in everything that has come to his hand, and what honour he has had of her he has well deserved.

Now if the imp hasn't the General -Sunday-school Secretary at his pencil point! What cares he for dignity ? And here he has area to work upon ; a pleasant face, too, to play his tricks with. What must the pencil tell? It must say, here is a man whose presence is com-manding but genial ; manly dignity worthy of a Con-nexional office of such importance, but proportions which refuse to be confined by red tape. Mr. Spedding does not unbend ; in that sense he is never rigid. The pencil finds him with creases of humour under the eyes with full, kindly lips ; a little careless of personal appearance, perhaps, though that has Laken on a sort of congruity

"His presence is commanding, but genial."

repeat themselves, and I had a vision of Mr. Youngey'd looking quite at home under a Covenanter's bonnet, and jutting out familiarly above the corselet of one of Cromwell's Ironsides. And one can easily imagine bine striking shrewd blows and doing doughty deeds for the faith in those days.

I am not sure, in-deed, judging from the face at the pencil's point, that but for the saving graces and broader influences of this latter age he would not have made a tolerably dangerous fanatic. He would certainly have been the seventeenth.cen-tury equivalent of a " whole-hogger." Yet if my pencil does not convey something of the twentieth century the imp has been napping. It should indicate a mind alert and up-to-date, ready to grapple with the problems of the hour, merciless with so-called sanctities if their right to the designation be at all questionable. The lips must be such as are little accustomed to small-talk and the lisping of polite nothings, possibly a little reticent in social intercourse, but at the prompting of a prophetic message in-formed with incisive speech. And that speech will be singu-larly direct and searching, emancipated from the cant phrase the mere rhetorical shibboleth, clothed in the image and idiom of to-day. The figure is that of a man who takes himself seriously, and all its lines and attitudes suggest vital energy, confident mastery, and reserve force.

It is a very different face which next comes to the pencil's point—that of the respected head of our Book Department. It symbolises the continuity of tradition, for with its shaven upper lip and fringe of grey beard it is a type of face that was very familiar in the ministry, of yesterday. Go where you will, Mr. Hammond will scarcely be taken for anything other than a Methodist minister. Indeed, he is that to the finger-tips ; even what a new member of his congregation might take for his " pulpit voice " turns out after all to be his " private voice" ! But the head is not that of a man who lives in yesterday, nor is it merely typical ; it has pronounced characteristics of its own on which the imp, as is his wont, eagerly seizes. Most striking is the high, almost conical crown, which would have been considered by the now somewhat discredited " science " of phrenology as indicating, I believe, a large faculty of reverence. Which, of course, is eminently fitting in a reverend gentleman! Then we note the thick, shaggy eyebrows, the clear, kindly eyes beneath them, and the delicately cut., sensitive mouth, with its benignant lines at the corners. It is the face of a good man and a lovable ; of one who, if he had had great wealth, might have been known as a philan-thropist, in the limited sense of the term which the world gives it, but since Providence called him to be a Methodist minister has done his best to be one in the root sense. If the imp has interpreted the face truly Mr. Hammond must be a man very difficult to quarrel with, of large charity for others, littlegiven to thinking evil. He will know how to console the disconsolate and bind up wounded hearts, and his ministry will woo rather than com-pel. But he is prac-tical, too, and has a strong sense of justice. He will not only sympathise, he will champion those who need him, and his word will have influ-ence in public life. It is not surprising that his name is held "A Methodist minister . . . to his in civic honour in finger tips." East Anglia, where he long laboured, as that of a friend of the poor and a tireless toiler for the people's welfare.

One thing the imp must have as he perches before Toni Sykes : that is his smile—and smiles are the very dickens to the point of the pencil ; they are so elusive, so made up of minute touches and almost imperceptible shadows, especially on a clean-shaven face. But Tom Sykes's smile is so essential a thing, so expressive of the charm of his

with the general homel'iless of his character. For " homely " is the word here, and if, as we claim, Primitive Methodism spells homeliness, then Mr. Spedding could not be anything else than a " Prim." I dare say he would get along all right at a Lord Mayor's banquet ; I am very sure he would be good company at tea in a cottage. He is hail-fellow-well-met ; you ale on good terms with him in the twinkling of en eye, and after half an hour's conversation' feel as though you had known him all your life. He lives in as much sunshine as he can get, and he is a perfect mine of geod stories—stories about old-time preachers, stories about children and their funny ways.

Yes, my pencil should make it clear that the children of our Church have in him an ecclesiastical father with a young heart, one who is very much alive to their interests and understands them well. And I should like it to give some hint of how a short time ago I heard him give, in a small village chapel, on a mercilessly wet day, and to a wet day audience, one of the finest speeches it has been my fortune to hear for many a month. Fot he is a natural orator, with a ready flow of language, a convinc-ing style, and a high rate of speed. Shorthand writers will not like him, but they will be exceptions to the general rule.

No, the imp could not well pass the Rev. William Younger, admittedly an upstanding figure in the ministry of to-day. For there is character in his face, of that bold. rugged sort such as the imp loves. A stranger, noting its gaunt lines and the lank hair above it, might be forgiven if he imagined that it hailed from Yankee-land. The eyes are keen, shrewd and critical, though here, too, there are the saving lines of humour. The tense mouth, the heavy jaw, these bespeak determination and pugnacity. It is the face of a man who will " go through " with anything he takes in hand, who will not blench at obstacles or be frightened by bogeys. The embattled array of evil will find in him a tough opponent„ while deceits and false pretences need hope for little. Eyes like these would go through most things like corkscrews. I was going to say it is essentially a modern face, when I remembered that face-types, like history, sometimes

862 THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. DECEMBER 4, 1913

compelling personality, that it must at least be attempted. It captivates you right away ; it is like an open door to his heart. There are no reserves hidden behind it, no suspicion of the simulated or the supercilious lurks in the corners. Even if it is at your expense it is frank and open, and disarms by a sort of boyish gaiety. You would feel a churl to be vexed. And it is an index ; it tells a great deal to those who know him, and to those who are not so fortunate it makes goodly promises. It betokens intrinsic .good nature, an optimistic habit, and a spirit that rejoices in comradeship. I should like it to give just a hint of three happy years of close colleagueship, unruffled by a single breath of discord, and marked on his part by unfailing generosity and unswerving loyalty. Yet even in the smile, if the imp has done his work at all

efficiently, there are clean, decisive lines and curves, which suggest that on occasion the

• mouth can shut in a tolerably straight line ; and these in- dications are borne

thrall, lift the clear enchantment, catch him, in a mental sense, "off duty," and you will find him what he humanly is, genial, sympathetic, not without sense of humour . . .

"Truth is his mistress and may command him anything."

but students of any "year" will tell you, "He was a terror at piling On the Greek! "

Now the imp has been in a mischievous mood with Dr. Dalton, who is, however, a good-natured victim. There could be little hesitation about the right expression here, for the Doctor's rubicund countenance has a beaming habit. His mouth recalls Keats' " beaker of the warm South, With beaded bubbles " of merriment " winking at the brim." He is indeed a very Bacchanal of healthy laughter. Hear Iiiin laugh at a jest or pawky story, his

"His rubicund countenance has a beaming habit"

great chest expanded, his head thrown back, his whole being abandoned for the moment t5 hilarity, as at a sterner moment it will be to "hard slog." And if it happens to be a story of his own telling—well, so much the better ! Laughter is a cosmic element with him ; more, it is an article of religion. There is no incongruity to his mind in wafting it over the edge of the pulpit Bible, and in the main he is right, though a good many people think he some-times goes a little too far—for a D.D., you know ! They would say there are some quiet natures whose worshipping

souls may be as much shocked by a too exuberant and antic merriment as others. would be by a too liberal flour- ishing of the Higher Criticism. They accept the man—cannot help but do so—but reserve the right to disapprove mildly now and then ; and he doesn't mind, bless you! Moreover, he can use laughter as a weapon ; he aims to kill vices and follies by firing ridicule at them. A keen and lethal weapon it can be, too, op powerful lips, but a little treacherous if one does not watch it. For instance, Mr. Dalton is never so happy as when he is directing his explosive battalions of mirth against snobbery. There is probably no more effective artillery for this peculiar foible, but—is there not such a thing as a snobbery of anti-snobbishness ? I am not a uite certain where the choice lies between, say, the snobbery of a little dandi- fied street-parading " nut " and she snobbery of the self-made merchant for ever recounting his early nothingness.

But you want to knoW why the imp has introduced that .spade? Then you haven't heard the Doctor tell the story ? How he marched down the principal street of a Yorkshire town, to the horror of a gaping populace, wear-ing a top hat and frock-coat, and carrying a new spade on his shoulder, destined for a relative. Ridiculous popu- lace! As though an honest man may - not wear a frock- coat and top hat! . . . By the way, the imp is not over-sure of the chaps of the implement, for even the good Doctor, than whom no man loves more to call a spade a spade, could not name it without qualification! At all events, the imp evidently thought he would give this laughter-loving divine an opportunity of laughing at him-self—which is the last test of greatness. And he does not think there will be much difficulty about it. But this beaming face must not be taken to bespeak " the crackling of thorns under a pot " ; far from it. It tells of a deep-seated and unconquerable optimism which the burly frame and hard head, with its bold, smooth brow, have fought for in steep places. The jovial eyes can fill with the dews of sympathy, and the big heart is not difficult to- locate. It is the figure of a man who rejoices in his humanity and is on the best of terms with his God ; such a man as in the experience of many mast have embodied the grand prophetic ideal, " a hiding-place from the . tempest, and the shadow of a great rock in a weary land."

The pencil points next at a wholesome, healthy figure and a gentlemanly withal. Unlike his prefessorial cousin, the Rev. J. Harryman Taylor, M.A., has not the brow that is " sick-lied o'er with the pale cast of thought." The thought that is busy at the back of this high, placid forehead must be of an eminently sane, equable, and 3 et buoyant kind, for it has preserved to the face a general impression of round contentment. Apart from the keen, intelligent eyes that twinkle behind the gold-rimmed spectacleS there is little in his face that suggests scholastic at-tainments. The colour is fresh on his cheeks, and one would guess that lie is drawn quite as much to the open road as to the library and the midnight oil. Perhaps that is why. the imp has given him his hat a gear of generous proportions and not too rigid shape. He thinks the hat suits the head of the wearer. There are many interesting sugges- tions in this figure. Mr. Taylor is a man of broad vision and natural geni- ality. He will not care overmuch for fighting, but will love to be on good terms with his world, co far as is possible. He will prize his friendships and appreciate a pleasant chat ; and he will esteem the root of the matter' more than a show of luxuriant foliage. The imp wonld portray him as not greatly "A wholesome, healthy figure, concerned about popularity and a gentleman withal." or platform eminence, but rather choosing to devote himself to his " parish" and his own chosen pursuits.

Yet there are one or two contradictions in the face that save it from docility or a too utter repose. The short, hawk-like nose indicates a habit of command, and the under-lip is a little petulant, hinting that a bovine patience' is not proper to his temperament. I am re- minded of an incident in a college examination. The pro- gramme had been prepared to the tune of three papers per diem, and the examinees, apprehensive of a weariness to the flesh, petitioned Mr. Taylor, who was presiding ex- aminer, for more economical doses. The monitor emis-sary was received with the invariable beam from behind the spectacles and the remark, " Ah, the same old tale! " Whereat, hearing report of the embassy, one of the victims laconically commented, " Same old Taylor ! " There was point as well as wit in it, for having decided, Mr. Taylor will not shift far from his decision, and his points of view are not variable. But it has another side : meet him where and how you will—in a college corridor, at a Con- ference, as a circuit minister, you will find him in social intercourse, always the same friendly, chatty, gentle- manly fellow, interested in everything and everybody, clothing with an easy suggestion of the university man-ner an irrepressible quiddity of the shrewd and genial northern farmer.

1 out by the strong jaws which struggle for squareness with

;-% the round good humour of the rest of the face. He is not a fair-weather pilot, this man, but

Ay,will know very well what to do in an

1‘) emergency, and, knowing, will carry out, or he will

"His Emile is like an open door to know the reason his heart." why. Neverthe-

less, he will prefer the suaviter in mode to the fortiter in re, and will be quite content to let the other party think he is getting his way so long as he knows perfectly well that T. S. is getting his.. Not a bad quality, after all, for dealing with the average churchful of heterogeneous tempera-ments, especially when, as in this case, there is resource and long vision and constructive ability to back it. The vapoury and insubstantial will have little attraction for 11r. Sykes ; his preferences will be for solid things—solid books, solid satisfactions, solid deeds and solid men. He will be accustomed to steering straight for a mark fickle winds and cross currents will not lure him aside. He will have deep convictions, and will not fear to express them ; he will think largely, and will not be deluded by petty considerations. In short, he is built on strong lines.

Look again at the sweep of the jaw, and put with it the straight, level forehead, and you get some indication of the powers of will and mind which have brought this man from a Yorkshire plough to one of the leading pulpits in our Church. Only natural gifts of a high order and uncommon faculties of application and assimi-lation could have compass-id it. But to hear him in the pulpit is to feel the quality of his powers. A fine, full voice, a magnetic presence, a ready gift of chaste, forceful language, carry home a message that is always drawn from the deeps. The heartsome smile plays a large part, too, though now and again some truth with iron in it will kindle the eyes, clench the strong teeth, and set the square jaws in an expression of bulldog tenacity. You listen absorbed, impressed with the knowledge that he has been talking to you of living things . . . and you go again at the first opportunity. For that broad upper lip with its wide partition does not carry the stamp of the orator without good reason.

Dare the imp beard a Professor ? Well . . . let it be whispered, it isn't the first time ! If you are disinclined to believe it, ask Professor Humphries. A scholarly face this, the black, high-arched brows and slightly drooping lids lending a dreamy, somewhat abstracted expression to the eyes. In memories of the lecture hall they have this quality, as though their gaze were habitually withdrawn from the things of sense. A whimsical, shadowy smile plays now and then over the features, and the voice, well modulated and with a curious little decisive inflection at the end of each sentence, runs on without effort or weari-ness. A question now and then breaks in on his detach-ment and chains his glance for a moment, but soon it is away again to the fields of farther vision. The clock strikes the hour, the stream of musical talk ceases, and , he passes through the swing doors, the ghost of a medita-

secret smile touching his face like pale moonlight. This detachment is characteristic not of the professor only, but of the preacher also. There is no assumption of the rhetorical, no perceptible measuring of the audience as of an instrument to play upon ; the manner is still that of the classroom rather than that of the pulpit. There are times here, too, when he will seem almost to lose consciousness of his congregation, rapt in the inner and upper world of his thought. Suum cuique—the man now at the pencil's point was born to think and to teach, to impress the few and impregnate them with ideas rather than to sway popular audiences and rouse the masses with lambent eloquence.

The face and figure are nervous, sensitive, highly strung ; the hands clasp and unclasp under the back folds of the gown, or fidget with its ribbons, with a morsel of chalk ; rarely, if ever, gesticulate. It is not the figure of a mere parchment scholar with no soul above logic and grammar, for all he "settles Hoti's business" with such conscientious care, but of a man of flesh and nerves who feels keenly and is susceptible to the finest shades of emotion. For the lips under the thick moustache are full, sensuous and kindly, yet the eyes dominate the face, and the scholar is on the throne. Truth is his mistress and may command him anything, and for her sake Learning, her handmaid, shall have his most conscien-tious service ; while there is superadded a strong sense of duty to his position. Loose him a moment from the

"Modern of the moderns."

"Picking out the invisible thread of his argument."

DECEMBER 4, 1913. THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. 833

If I should say that the minute the imp pointed my pencil at his next victim a voice exclaimed, " Dawn't do it, mister ! " every old student for many years back would identify ex-Principal George Parkin. For that voice and the quaint, radiant face that belongs to it are familiar and - dear to all students. From the day when he first stepped inside the college as a lecturer he took the students into his heart, and he has never let them out again. How many happy memories are treasured up by hose who studied under his principalship, and how many

rollicking stories are told of his sagacity, his kindliness, his saving sense of humour. Of a humourous vein him-

"Dawn't do lt, mister."

self, perhaps the humour would be a little unconscious at times, but it was relished none the less for that ; for a moment the brows would knit, the mouth purse up, then these unaccustomed lines would break up, the face would melt into the familiar sunny smile, and a deep, rich chuckle would sound in his throat. Who could help but love and respect' him the more ? It is pretty much the same still. Let him stroll into the dining-hall on an occasional visit, and the cry goes up, " Speech ! Speech!" with a great clamour of beaten tables. There is a depre-catory wave of the hand, a guttural Naw, naw ! a feint movement towards the door—and then he comes back and gives it, as he has been longing to do all the time. A North-country adjective will serve us best here it is a canny face. The eyes, wrinkled up very small, with a philosophic amusement at the oddities of life, are yet bright and full of fire ; the jaw is square, the mouth winsome and made for broad smiles, and the brow is the 3row of a man of books. There is something delightfully ;ypical even in the bristling hair on the top of the head. What Mr. P: would have done in the days of Hugh Bourne we are at a loss to imagine !

A lover of learning he is, a Hebrew scholar, and a life-long student ; a man of solid attainments and of lasting pulpit power. But he is also wise in the lore of humanity and gifted with that rare endowment sometimes called " mother wit." It is pleasant to meet him, so see first the look of grave consideration on his face, then the breaking light of a quaint, half-shy smile of recognition ; or -to watch him as he sits in a Conference, alert and attentive to everything that concerns the Church he loves, revelling in it all, and to note the changing play of his features from profound concern to hearty enjoyment. And it is well worth while to hear the sonorous voice of the preacher as with accents of deep conviction he pro-claims the Gospel which is the light of his cheery soul. It cannot, we may suppose, be many years now before he retires from active work to a well-earned rest. Let us hope, we may have him long in our midst, and that he will still drop in at Alexandra Park now and again to hearten the "'young Men " with his paternal countenance. Even now there are few more interesting personalities in the ranks of our. ministry.

A modern of the moderns now faces the pencil. Most familiarly attired in jacket suit and bowler hat, his nose gripped by neat pincenez, a small but ferocious moustache

bristling from his upper lip, Wilfred Wilkinson emphati-cally typifies the young idea. The last thing such a man could be accused of is professionalism ; so far as outward appearances go he might be a pros-perous and pushful city business man. He is curiously and unmistakably stamped with the hall - mark of the twentieth century. Why, that strange wrinkling of the brow between' the eyes, sign of a critical perceptive faculty, is exactly the same as in the face of Bernard Shaw. Tempting though

it would seem, particularly in the latter instance, it cannot be construed into " 666." Furthermore, the imp, for some unexplained reason, when confronted with Mr. Wilkinson, is always urged to telegraph to my brain "G. K. C.," which is not a signal of distress, but the countersign of another well-known man of letters ; for if the brow is Shaw's, that rounded lower lip is certainly Chesterton's. In view of this the imp is peculiarly gratified to note Mr.

Wilkinson's increasing substantiality. This is a man who will not be afraid to face modem problems ; he is adapted to modern conditions, and will gladly pursue modern methods. That mark of critical perception is not for nothing ; he will prove all things and cleave only to that which, in his judgment, is good. Traditions must stand the test of experience, and the hour must decide. He will have no superstitious reverence for forms and ceremonies, but will seek the inner values and regard the spirit and the - principle as the things that matter.

Mr. Wilkinson's face can adopt some very differing expressions. Sometimes it will be alive with irresistible boyish mischief, as when he is good-temperedly plaguing old fogeyism or arguing " for fun." For he is a great " argyfier," master of the whole armoury of debate from axiom to paradox. Then, again, lie can look very pug-nacious, as when he is " up against " some wrong that wants righting or some obstruction that needs clearing away. He has plenty of self-confidence and of the kind of tenacity they breed in Leeds ; you will not browbeat W. R. W. And fighting is part of the fun ; his best game is the game of life, and he is out to have a good time and to shift things. Fearless in the expression of his views, of optimistic temperament and engaging manner, Mr. Wilkinson should go a long way. He is of advanced social sympathies, and theologically is a direct product of the Higher Critical positions, having been one of the first batch of students under Dr. Peake, for whom, of course, he has a high admiration and a warm regard. A great lover of children, there are few in the ministry to-day who have a better understanding of the art of speaking to young folk. To add the final stroke, lie is still a student, takes a big interest in politics, and is the jolliest of good company.

James Watkin meets the point of the pencil with a bound. Indeed, he seems, figuratively speaking, to do everything with a bound: What elasticity, what exuberant vitality he has ! One needs not a stolid English pencil but a Japanese brush, with its nervous sensitiveness, to

give anything like a living impresSion of him. This is a man who lives in a perpet-ual enthusiasm, who breathes and treads a rare upper air. When-

er you meet him he seems as buoyant as thistledown and as fresh as a daisy ; yet he has helped to carry many a burden, and has climbed a stiff hill or two in the service of his Church. Some of these things have bleached his curling locks to an iron grey, but have not been able to rob them of their crispness, nor have they withered his gen-- erous heart. There is a love of order and good taste apparent in this neat figure. Always immaculately dressed, Mr. Watkin gives the emphatic lie to the proverbial untidiness of the bachelor. He, too, is delightful company, brotherliness personi-fied, kindliness brim-ming over—a cham-pagne character. He has never yet been older than a young

man, and young men all over the country will speak good of him. There are quondam candidates for the ministry who remember how he played the host to them on the occasion of their ordeal at the Working Lads' Institute, dissipating their anxieties and fortifying their hearts with his jolly good fellowship and generous entertainment. And we have seen him at a Connexional function where the elite were gathered link his arm in that of a probationer and walk off with h'm for a congenial hob-nob. There is no suspicion of snobbishness or "side " about James Watkin ; he has lived too close to the heart of humanity for that.

But to see him most characteristically you must see him in the pulpit ; lie is at home there. A true Celt, he will run the whole gamut of the emotions, and the vibrating voice responds like a well-tuned instrument to the touch now of pathos, new of passion, now of triumph. Here he is an- artist and a poet, perceiving as by inspiration, ex-pounding and illuminating with loving care and vivid effect. He is all life as he speaks, face, hands, body lend-ing themselves freely to the expression of his thought. He is mercurial ; at one time a shrinking of the whole body indicates disgust or horror, at another he is so much an incarnation of exuberant joy that you would scarcely be surprised to see him levitate towards the roof, while yet again, chin tilted, and a-tiptoe, his thumb and forefinger will be daintily picking out the invisible thread of his silver arguments. But the pencil has held him long enough, and with a cheery flutter he is gone!

Last, let the imp impale the new Principal of Hartley. He will appropriate mischievously such salient features as he may—the square, manly shoulders ; the full, sympathetic lip ; the curious little tuft of hair (now growing thin) which rides atop of and sets off the fine curve of the forehead ; the peculiar line of the chin, which somehow manages to suggest at the same time fixity of purpose and modest reserve ; the fullness round the eyes, which is one of the marks of eloquence. All these things in licate a personality of much charm and strength. This character is dignified, yet graciously

he can preach to them, he can, command them, he "A personality of much charm can fraternise with them and strength." —and he will live before them.

Now the imp is tired, and - I fear the pencil's point has got a little blunt. He wishes me to thank you all for the courtesy of your interest- in his vagaries, and to wish a Merry Christmas to everybody—especially to his victims!

" The Humour and Pathos of the Australian Desert," by John Benkers. (A. H. Stockwell. 4s. net.)

This book will deeply interest boys and men, saints and sinners. It is full of incidents of the romantic and adventurous sort. It shows human nature at its best and worst. The writer says : " I was for three years wander-ing about in the never-never-country,' in the heart of . Australia, trying to preach to the hard cases that do the cattle punching there." The author adds considerably, to our knowledge of the geography, the beaUties and the desolation of that vast land, and of the difficulties of living there. His work was largely beyond the outposts of civilisation, and it brought him into contact with the roughest types of men. Humour and pathos abound, and there is just a touch of love-making towards the end of the book. To all social reformers Chapter XII. will be particularly and painfully interesting. The great hindrance to moral and social welfare there, as here, is the drink curse. A more powerful and graphic indictment of this evil would be very difficult to find or conceive. The interest of the book is entrancing. When once the reading of it is begun, leaving off is very diffi-cult. Our Sunday-schools should place it in their list of reward and library books without delay.

" St. Paul and the Mystery Religion." By H. A. A'S. Kennedy, D.D., D.Sc. (Hodder and Stoughton. 6s. net.)

A searching investigation, on lines which will appeal to the student, on the attitude of St. Paul to the great phenomena of mysticism. That this is a universal charac-teristic will be freely admitted. It is part of the groping of man for the living God, and can be traced in the religious awakening of Persia, Egypt, Greece, and Palestine, to mention but a few of familiar manifestations. There are special strains of religious thought and feeling more or less common to theta all, such as regeneration (in some sense) and union or communion with deity. The chief aim of mystery religion may be said to be its offer of salvation (primarily deliverance from the tyranny of an omnipotent fate which may crush a human life at any moment) to those who have been duly initiated. It is undoubtedly true that St. Paul in his extensive missionary operations was brought into intimate touch with many whose lives were influenced by mysteries of more or less common to them all, such as regeneration (in some sense) and union or communion with Deity. spiritual ends. St. Paul had something of the type of temperament which is supposed to have particular affinity to mysticism—namely, absorbing contemplation, ecstatic experiences ; but these throughout were controlled by the highest ethical qualities, together indicating his rich and complete religious experience. C.,

approachable ; cultured and refined, but not finical ; in-fluential without self-advertisement. Of course, everyone knows Mr. Pickett as a prince of preachers, a man who lives for his pulpit and is a living force in it. The tale and the effect of his quiet, long-ex-tended ministries will live in our Church for a long time to come. He has been splendidly endowed for it,: a mellow voice, winsome and expressive polished phras-ing, wide reading, varied and original vision, lofty and solid thinking. Mr. Pickett could never stoop to be cheap ; mere dazzle, shallow sentiment, stage thunder—for these he will have no use. It is doubt-ful whether his ambitions have ever soared higher—or, it would be better to say, have ever located a loftier ideal—than the joy of a successful pastorate. Like old Thomas Fuller's "Faithful Minister," "he counts the success of his ministry the greatest pre-ferment." It is pretty certain that it was a wrench for him to leave his chosen sphere even for such an important position as the principalship, one, perhaps, that only a strong sense of duty and of the obedience he owed to the call of the Church could have enabled him to make; but it is possible be may live to rejoice at it. Such a character as his is bound to command the respect of, and exert a fine influence over, young men. Indeed, if rumour speaks correctly, the students have already tasted his quality, and have taken him to their hearts—to any nothing of Mrs. Pickett, whose charm is not second even to that, of her husband. It is almost bound to be so, for

The Voyage of the Venus. #1,4•e4.0.:•e+e•:•e•:•e•:•e•:•e•:•e•:-C.:•e+e44,

By J. DODD JACKSON.

c.:•e+e•:•e+e+e+e•ex.e.:•e•:•e•:•ex•e•e I.—Captain Zeph.

It was on the North Pier that, many a year ago, Captain Zeph told me the story I am now about to write. It is really a confession. for I knew him so intimately that he told me things he reserved from some of his own kith and kin. It was our habit to walk often together upon the pier watching the ships passing in and out of the Tyne, and strange tales of the sea and of old, old times I heard as we sauntered to and fro. To talk of the ocean, and enlighten my ignorance upon matters maritime, seemed to be one of the chief delights of a quiet eventide. My friend would point to the craft in the river and inform me which was a schooner, which a brig and which a barque. He would name the ropes in the rigging and the nationality of the flag. Some of the vessels he would identify as known to him of yore, and grow reminiscent concerning the men who had paced their decks. " See yon three-master," he might exclaim, " if that is not the old Leander I'm a Dutchman ! Saw her sail on her first trip, and a clipper- she was, too, hinny, Phil Morgan captain, Dick Prince forst mate ; aall gone, Mr. Irwin, aall gone, an' heor she comes sailing yet! " Generally he was mistaken, and I would afterwards learn that instead of the old Leander we had seen the Hero, or the Hylton, or the Duke of Northumberland. Failing vision and withering memory play strange tricks with the old.

For old ho was, notwithstanding the red rose in his healthful cheek and the straightness of his still noble figure. Startling as the statement may seem, he had sailed the sea for years before Waterloo was fought, and he was fond of recalling how he " just happened to be ashore " to see the rejoicings over that mighty victory. He had fought the wild Nor'easter for seventy years, and always on. that iron coast where most it proves its cruel strength. He had been one of those sailors who never see foreign parts, but spend their lives between the ports of old England, in and out of London, or Newcastle, or Yarmouth, the Tyne, the Tees or the Thames, as trade may lie. A hard, rough life had he lived. Still, it was not until fourscore years had passed over his head that he stepped ashore for the last time. All by chance, I met the old fellow coming down the gangway. "Aah've done!" he said, as his foot touched the quay.

" Done?" I asked. " Done gannin' to sea," he answered. " What wit thor

steel-tors an' one thing an' another, it's nee use nowadays for a man to think o' making even a dog's living under sail!"

And the Cannie Lad ?" I suggested. " The Cannie Lad's selt; Mistor, an' as good a boat as

ivor looked oot o': the Tyne, and Aah should knaa, for &sieve sailed hor for forty year." ." And yourself, Captain Bound ?" I inquired, wonder-

*ng as to the old man's future happiness. "Ay, ay—mysel' Well, look you, Mr. Irwin, aall

these yeors while you've been gannen up to the cheppil tew 'r three times of a Sunda' an' to aall sorts o' meetings on the week-nights, I've been oot thonder battling with the gale and the billow, and sighin' for the gates of Zion. Now, hinny, Aah's on for makken up lost time."

It was a brave speech and bravely spoken, but I saw the sparkle of a tear in the corner of the clear blue eye, and full well I knew that though many of the good things if life might come his way and the fireside be cosier than a wind-swept deck, the ancient mariner would long for the sea.

And so he did at times, if signs were true. Still, on the whole, his contentment was wonderful. It was always the North Pier for a stroll, and the shipping columns of the " Chronicle " for literature. His had been " a long family," and he had many grandsons, not one of whom did not receive the gift of a " Cannie Lad," carved, rigged and painted by his gnarled old fingers. A subtle influence must have come from the saucy little schooners, and the yarns spun by their builder as the boys watched him at his work must have fired their imaginations, for to-day you may find grandsons of Captain Zeph on the bridges of some of the finest ships in the mercantile marine. May they be men as good, as true, and as brave as the tough old shellback from whom came the sea-salt in their veins. I, have yet to know a better man.

"And now, to come back to that far-off meeting on the North Pier. The month was May and a gentle breeze from the East brought on its breath wine of ozone from distant immensities of ocean. It was a morning to make the sad forget their trouble, the sick their sickness, and the old their age. Buoyantly Captain Zeph came stepping along the pavement. He was whistling. "A grand aad hymn, Mr. Irwin! " he exclaimed as he held out his hand.

I had not caught the air and begged his pardon. "'Twas this, hinny," he explained, beginning to sing

the well-known ditty we had almost torn to tatters in the prayer-meeting of the previous evening, " The Gospel ship along is sailing." There was no one bat ourselves upon the pier, and the Captain did not sing the song alone. " Man." he said, " she's been gannen through my heed aall night, ' Glory. glory, hallelujah ! Aall • the sailors loudly cry.' Of all the hymns we sing that's forst favourite wit me. See, thonders the old St. Vincent warping in! "

" No," I said, " she's a Norwegian." Alas, the St. Vincent lay a thousand fathoms low off Cape Race, her gallant crew sleeping their last, long sleep in cabins long shared by the creatures of the deep!

"A Norwegian! Aad eyes divvent see's weel as young 'tins. But the hymn—it's a grand 'un, an' Aah'll tell you why of aall the hymns we ivor sing I love it best."

A curious thing is memory, falling easily to sleep, and often strangely awakened. A long time has passed since that morning, and, so far as a man can forget, I had forgotten the story to which I listened then. This morn-ing, long before daybreak, a boy in' the street uncon-sciously brought it all back again as he passed, whistling, to his daily work. It was the old melody, and, with the notes, came the hymn and a vision. There, again, was Captain Zeph, and his voice was in my ears—even his very words—as sentence by sentence, the history was revived. It shall be written down lest it be forgotten again, though not quite in the original tongue., Zephaniah Bound used the broadest speech of Northumbria. He had a "burr," thickened by long contention with roaring winds, crashing billows and raging thunders. The following document, therefore, is not merely a record. For the southern reader's sake it is almost a translation. Would that he could hear the story as I heard it that sweet spring morning on Tynemouth Pier—the great ships sweeping past, and the murmur of waves and breezes furnishing an accompaniment to the rune!

II.—When Winds were Fair. " It was in the early twenties, Mr. Irwin," the old

man began, " that I first heard that old hymn. Even so far back I had been long enough at sea to be master of the little schooner Venus, belonging to Captain John, Robinson, of Tynemouth. It was a common thing, in those days, for a man to own such a craft and sail her himself, and it was on the Venus, while old Robinson, who was my mother's brother, still commanded her, that I went to sea at ten years old. A rough old customer he was ! He was sharp with his tongue and sharper with his fists, and he had his own way of training a lad for a sailor's life. He believed in a rope's ending now and then, and would let out with his foot if one didn't look spry. Still he was not without kindness, and to him blood was thicker than water. He had said to my mother, ' Jane, I'll take the lad and I'll do my duty by him,' and to the best of his light he did. As soon as I knew enough to be trusted he made me mate, and, on the very day that I came to twenty-one, he called me into his tiny cabin. Zeph,' says he, ' thoo's a man now. Supposing I stop

gannin' to sea and the Venus puts out under Captain Bound, what'll happen ? "

" The best that care can bring about, Uncle John ?' I said.

"'So be it!' said he. ' To-night we'll be in Shields, and John Robinson will go ashore for the last time.' Ashore he went, only to be taken with a seizure that laid him on his bed for the two short years he lived. At the end of that time I came home one night to find the good old man in his grave and _myself the owner of the Venus. She was very small, of course, carried only four of a crew all told, and her farthest trip was to London ; but a proud man was I when next I sailed out of the Tyne.

"Yes, I was proud; and that was not all. I was full of wonder also, as well I might be. • Everybody else was full of wonder, too, and I knew that all Shields was almost talking its head off. What they were saying was this : Only to think that Jack Bound's son should come to this

good luck ! ' The fact was that everybody knew what kind of a start in life I had had, what kind of a childhood, what kind of a home!

" For, Mr. Irwin, Jack Bound, my father, had had in a wicked time the reputation of being the worst man an Tyneside. He had once been a sailor, then a soldier in the foreign wars ; in the end, having come back to Shields, he became a smuggler. My mother, poar thing, had been a religious woman before she met with blur. She had heard John Wesley preach in the Orphan Home at Newcastle, and she attended the Methodist chapel at Hunter-street up to her marriage, and until after my father had twice beaten her for going, for he hated the very name of religion. I have heard her say that perhaps at the Judgment the Judge would make allowance for a woman circumstanced as she was. Though no longer able to attend the sanctuary she tried to do right, and when my father was out of the way would teach us children to read, tell us about God and Christ, and Heaven and Hell, and gather us round her knee to say a morning or evening prayer. It was not much she could do for us, but it was her best. You can imagine what manner of home we had—a cruel,, drunken, roaring father, a delicate, abused and broken-hearted mother. Then suddenly the end came.

" The end, and I remember it as if it had been yester-day, though I was barely ten years old, and over eighty years have passed away. It was winter, and the ground was covered with snow. Midnight had struck, and I was asleep in bed, when there came a great knocking on the door of our poor little home by the river. It awoke us children, and we lay wondering. , Soon we heard my mother go downstairs to undo the bolt, and a murmur of deep voices below. Then came a shriek from' my mother. I ran downstairs and saw my father lying dead upon the floor.

""Twas Captain Drake who shot him,' Said someone. Captain Drake was master of a revenue cutter watching the coast.

" Captain Drake! Then God look black upon him! ' cried my mother in her frenzy, for she still roved the man who had spoiled her life.

" So died my father. Three months later my mbther

864

THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. DECEMBER, 4, 1913

followed him to the churchyard. It was as she lay dying that John Robinson took me from her hand and made the promise of which 'I have'told you There were seven children of us. Two old brothers wept' down the pit another enlisted in the Northumberland Fusiliers; our two sisters, who were younger than I, went to relatives in Hexamshire.

" And now here was I sailing out of the Tyne bound for London, skipper and owner of as tight a little. coaster as ever spread sails for a wind ! Can you be surprised that people who knew the past should talk and wonder I had a proud heart that day—a proud heart, and, I fear, a high head. Perhaps if I had been a little less proud' things would have gone better with me than they did.

"For as we lay in London river the worst thing of my life came to me, and that was my meeting with a speaker whom I heard one evening on a piece of waste land off a street in Wapping. I was sauntering along, looking at the sights, when I saw a crowd, and in the midst of them a tall, dark man with a hard, sharp face and cunning eyes. These were the words I heard as I drew near, ' It may do for old women and little children and fools, but for thinking men it won't do, and never will do again.'

"' What's he mean?' said I, and stopped to listen. He meant the Gospel—the truths ray mother taught me, and which had kept me straight. All my days it had been a• struggle between the tendencies inherited from my father and the things taught me by my mother, and up to then mother had won. I was a steady fellow, clean living and sober. But down in my heart I longed for sin, for down in my heart my father lived on. I was a mood to listen ; in a mood to get rid of inconvenient notions that kept me from living as my nature longed to do. The man was clever. He could argue as I never heard anyone argue. As I went away I said There is no God, no eternity. Nothing is good ; nothing is bad. Here's for a good time ! ' , •

"Back to Shields we came, and very soon everybody in the place knew that Zeph Bound had turned infidel. Then —it may sound strange, but it is true—the whole of my crew left me, and I had hard work to ship another. Men who could hardly speak without cursing said it would be unlucky to go to sea with a skipper who said there was no God. When, at last, I did get a company, one of the vilest men in Shields pointed to the Venus as she dropped down the river, and, with an oath, offered to wager five guineas we would never come back. - 'No atheist,' he said, shall sail in a ship of mine. It stands to reason that he would come to a bad end and take the boat with him.' Five guineas, and no one dare take him !

"But to a bad end I did not come. Again and again we went and came, and never lost a spar or a thread of sail. More and more I gave myself to infidelity, and more and more I gave myself to evil. doing. I had the gift of the gab and got into the way of talking at infidel meetings. I would tell of religious captains who had lost their ships, and boast that, with never a prayer, or a Bible aboard, the Venus got better weather and made more money than any land-lugger out of the Tyne.

" So it went on for two years. Then came the winter of 1822, and a terrible winter it was. 1823 came in with a storm that blocked the roads with snow. The coast was strewn with wrecks, and many a life was lost. Yet through it all the Venus suffered neither harm nor loss. Didn't ,I.brag! The month of February came, and Still the tempest raged. One night, speaking in a hall at Shields, I must, I think, have gone mad with presump- . tion. 'If there is a .God,' I said, ' let Hire sink me next trip!'

" Yes, I said that. It cost me my crew, and I had harder work than ever to come by another. Still, by dint of pergeverance and the offer of extra wages, men of a kind I did get, and we sailed for the Humber. It was a rough, cold passage—snow and hurricane all the way ; but God is too great and merciful to take a fool at his word, and we dropped anchor as the bells of Hull were ringing for service on a blowy, snowy Sunday morning."

III.—"And only not a Wreck." "And now I come to the day when first that old hymn

fell upon my ears. It was the Sunday of our arrival. There was a company of infidels in Hull who used to meet in a room behind a tavern, and I made up my mind to attend their gathering, and persuaded Jim Spink, my mate, to go with me. We had hardly stepped ashore before we heard the sound of singing. " Guess it's the Ranters, Skipper,' said Jim ; ' let's gan an hey look at 'em! '

" Well, I knew about the Ranters, though I had never heard therh. Old Joe Peart, the schoolmaster, a Methodist local, had brought them to Shields a year or so before, and I had been told a; great deal about their carryings on. To tell the truth, being so well known in Shields, I dare not have gone' to hear them' there. In Hull I was stranger, and it was different. All right,' I answered, ' come on ! ' It had jumped into my head to interrupt the preacher and put a few of my infidel posers to him. 'You're gannen to see some fun, Jim,' I told my, companion.

" Along the quay side we walked, in the direction from which the sound had come. The singing stopped, and without its guidance it was some time before we found the people we sought. At last we caught the sound of a voice in, what sounded like an address. The singing broke putt again, and this was, the song :—

The Gospel ship along is sailing, Bound for Canaail's peaceful shore ;

All who wish to sail to glory Come and welcome, rich and poor.'

" These words met us 3,5 we walked along a Street in which a great crowd was gathered. As we came up they struck into the chorus. It was a wild and gusty night, but oh! how they sang, Mr. Irwin ; I can hear them now :—

"'Glory Glory, Hallelujah, All the sailors loudly cry,

See the blissful port of Glory Open to each faithful eye.'

DECEMBER 4, 1913 THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. 865

' I'll stop this ! ' said I to Spink. ' Friends,' I shouted, 'will you listen to me ? '

" Now in those days I had a big voice, but big as it was, those people went on with their singing, and out rolled the second verse :

" Thousands she has safely landed Far beyond this mortal shore ;

Thousands still are sailing in her, Yet th,!re's room for thousands more'

" ' Friends,' I shouted again, ' will you listen to me ? But once more they didn't hlar, and I had to wait as ' Glory, Glory, Hallelujah' rolled out over the crowd and away across the town. Then I got in.

" I want to tell you about a ship,' I began, ' but it's not a gospel ship. It's the schooner Venus of Shields,' and I began to tell the story.

" Began! Yes, only ' began,' for somehow the man in charge of the gathering seemed to guess what was coming, and suddenly broke into that chorus again,' 'Glory, Glory, Hallelujah.' Shout as I might, they would not stop to listen. I tore, I raved, but I might as well have spoken to the sea.

" Skipper,' said Jim Spink, ' you've met your match. Better weigh anchor.' This we did. Going down the street I stopped and looked back, and cursed the people still singing in the winter's cold. A blast of wind came down the terrace. This was the answer it brought :—

" 'Her sails are filled with heavenly breezes, Swiftly wafts the ship along,

All her sailors are rejoicing, Glory bursts from every tongue.'

" In a few. days we turned north again. Those few days had not been pleasant ones. I found that Spink and I were not the only men from the Venus who had been drawn to the preaching. Two others had heard the singing while drinking in an alehouse, and had been in the crowd when I interrupted the service. They had heard the sermon, and the preacher had so wrought upon them that they vowed that they would never leave New-castle again under a skipper who would do and say what I had done and said. To my surprise, the mate seemed disposed to take the same side. Then, though I did not confess it, I had a strange, uncomfortable feeling of my own. I was glad when once again we were well at sea. I was still gladder when I knew we were near the Tyne again. I had got a notion that misfortune, perhaps danger, awaited us—that., after all our wonderful luck, the voyage would not end well.

" And I was right, for that was the night of a storm to be named in history. It was such a storm as I never knew in all my seventy years afloat. It was midnight when we saw the Tynemouth light, and the hurricane fairly yelled through the rigging, and the ship was all awash with the sea. It was pitch dark. 'listen,' said the mate, ' how the breakers roar on the Black Middens! Skipper, you've roused God up at last ! ' As he spoke the two men of whom I have spoken came staggering along the deck. Captain,' they said, ' with you in charge, this ship is as bad as lost. Let the mate take hold.' I lifted a lamp and looked into their faces. I knew they spoke for the others. I stood back.

" So be it,' I said. `Jim Spink, bring her through.' " Gcd help me," he groaned, "tis too much for

mortal man. The rudder has gone ! There's only one thing I can do—I can pray.'

" So Jim Spink, bad man as he had been, knelt and prayed. Nearer and nearer to the rocks we drifted, as powerless as a leaf upon the billows. I knew something about navigation ; I knew all there was to know about the Tyne and its entrance, and I knew that, with a broken rudder, nothing that man. might do could save us in such a sea. Still, I did not show the white feather. I neither wept nor prayed. I stood and waited for the end.

" ' For the end ! ' And it came, but not the end that appeared inevitable. For twenty years in Shields men used to talk of the miracle of the Venus. Suddenly there came a wilder shriek of the storm, a mightier bellow of the sea. It seemed as if we were thrown up to the clouds, then down, down to the depthie, and le ! the ship rode almost steadily. Jim Spink rase from his knees. The men raised a cheer and broke into tears as they did so. ' We're in,' exclaimed the mate. It was true! That mighty wave had swept us over the cruel rocks, and we were riding, not in smooth water, but almost safely in the river. As if he could not help it Jim Spink lifted the chorus, and the two sailors joined in :—

" ' Glory, , glory, Hallelujah, All the sailors loudly cry, See the blissful port of Glory

Open to each faithful eye.' "1 We were saved " That happened in the early morning of March 3, 1823.

The next day Shields had two wonders of which to talk. One was the escape of our little ship and the other a strange event at the house of Dr. Oxley. Under the roof of that dwelling three guests had last night lain down to sleep. They were William Clowes and John and Thomas Nelson, who had come to hold what was a new thing on Tyneside—a Primitive Methodist quarterly meet-ing. In the night the house had been smitten by the gale and almost destroyed ; yet not one of these three men had received so much as a scratch. A great thanksgiving ser-vice was to be held, and I went to it. , Again I heard that hymn. It met me as I approached the place of meet-ing. As I climbed up the stair the chorus like a torrent of song rolled down upon me from that upper room. As I entered the door the last verse came as a challenge :—

" ' Come, poor sinner, get converted, Sail with us o'er life's rough sea ;

• Then with us you will be happy, Happy in Eternity.'

I will! ' I cried. ' I will ! ' " And that's why The Gospel Ship' is first favourite

with Zephaniah Bound!"

WHAT TO GIVE - AT CHRISTMAS:

By Emily Jones Davies.

We are all grateful to the late Prince Consort for his introduction into this country of pretty German customs at Christmas. Perhaps that is why so many statues are erected to him in various parts of the country. At any rate, he deserves them on that account. Christmas in England a century or so ago was a rather heavy time, spent in eating and drinking hugely.

We are very glad that the spirit of Christmas is differ-ently interpreted now. The fairies, old legends, and ex-purgated festivities are a great improvement on those times. None of the new customs give more pleasure than the Christmas tree for the young folks, or the decorous drawing-room table laden with mysterious parcels for the older ones. I do not want to know that woman of any age who can walk into that closely guarded room on Christmas day without the light of expectancy in her eye. She is " fit for treasons, stratagems and spoils ; let no such (wo)man be trusted." But it is a serious ques-tion as to what we shall give to swell the pile. If our purse were full and a blank cheque were put into our hands it would, perhaps, be a little easier, though I am not quite sure of that ; but when, happily, our friends are many, and, not so happily, our coins are few, then—well, we supply the deficiency 14y intelligence and loving foresight.

First of all, we will take the negative. Do not give to eager little Ted, who is simply longing for a pair of " footers," a nicely made blotting pad. Nor to Nellie, who hates sewing, but loves painting, a new workbox, when she is almost praying for new paints and brushes. Do not ven-ture to give your husband a pipe unless you are certain it will " draw," and even then a man likes to choose his own pipe, as he likes to choose' his own wife ; it is a very searching test of any man's love to have to use a pipe his wife has bought for him. Neither is it well to present dear old Granny with another pair of warm slip-pers, when her romantic heart longs for a bottle of " White Violet," just the sort " Rob " used to bring her when a girl at home. If our gifts are to be gladly received, in the way which makes the heart of the giver joyful, then thought and sympathy and love must go into the gift. Do not, I beseech you, give to your one rich friend a present which will tax your resources too pain-fully and cannot be estimated at the high price you set upon it. If she cannot accept a gift which you can give with self-respect, then send her a greeting, and nothing else. Our principle in this matter is too often " To him that bath shall be given."

Having cleared the way a little we will proceed to the positive. The really loving woman will have her list ready of names and suggestions for presents to fit for some time before Christmas. She has been listening for stray words when the impulsive " I wish I had a " will open a window wide into the young heart, and it will be duly noted in the " Ohristmas book " that one is all right. But her older friends are not so easy to find out, and here she must carefully study their tastes and habits, and try to meet them, if only in a small way. It is a mistake- to Put a great deal of labour into a perfectly useless thing, and to spend precious money on a mere novelty which has not been tested, and which may prove only an irritation. For myself, I frankly confess to a dislike of merely useful things ; the lovely thing I like, but do not feel free to buy, is that which I like to receive. The small bottle of exquisite though expensive perfume, the box of delicate soap, a nicely embroidered linen towel, a supper cloth of generous size and easy laun-dering, but dainty and white ; a plain, large box of choco-lates, big enough to pass found to the family party, and give the little ones three times over, are amongst the things which please. For the dear old Grannies a lovely " tea-set for two " in dainty, but bright, colourings easily seen by failing sight, or a smart cap, with a wee bit of bright colour to brighten the bonny white hair ; a luminous matchbox for Grandpa, to meet the needs of dim eyes.

But, above all else, let us buy books. The book shops are the most alluring of all at Christmas time. When you can get the classics in a bright wrapper for seven-pence, or in gilded glory for one shilling, how it widens the circle of our benevolence. The minister's wife will look with delight on a new book by her favourite author. We know one superintendent who has given to all the teachers of his school a copy of a new book, and their joy was as if he had given them nuggets of gold. Even the tinies like books, with plenty. of pictures in them. The kindly book-fairies have the happy knack of impart-ing happiness so easily. A gentle hand leads you to the firelight and an easy chair, turns on the gas, places a new book, crisp and white and clear-printed, in your hand, then the fairy retires to watch the effect. Very soon the tired lines are smoothed out, the eyes are dancing with pleasure, or are deep with thought. She sees you are in a new and blissful world, and leaves you in peace to enjoy it.

But with all our gifts, let us not fail to give the very best we have, and that is our love. Jesus has taught us the wonderful preciousness of that great gift. It is one we all have. If with some of us it is meagre, then that is our own fault, and one we may soon remedy. A writer has said.: " If you do not really love your neighbour, act as if you do, and you will be surprised to find that you soon actually love him." At this happy season of the year, when by common consent all that is mean, or bitter, or cruel, or vindictive is put away for one day, let us open all the windows of our soul to the good and the loving ; then—why not continue all the year to give of our best, whether appreciated or not? I almost think that would make our life a heaven.

SOME TRUE STORIES.

By the Late Rev. Arthur Ward.

Mr. John Newton, of Great Hale Fen, Sleaford Circuit, was quite " an original." In him there was an unusual blend of spirituality, shrewd common sense, humour, drol-lery and child-like simplicity. Children seldom passed him without a smile or laugh, he so appealed to their love of fun. I have often told a few stories about him, and for their preservation and in the hope they may continue to do good I here record them.

He was a strong teetotaller, and watching the bees re- marked " They don't call at any other house on the way home." When people would not listen to his preaching in the open air he would say " I have two barrels to my gun," and would then try a temperance speech.

But his preaching in his best days was marvllously luminous. I recollect his saying " I have had any a good time with that text : He that believeth` on ne out of his heart shall flow rivers of living water." Aye! the Lord has a lot of religion for us—rivers, more than a river. And that other passage talks' about lengths and breadths and . heights and depths—religion without measure ! " As I listened I was amazed and thought, " Here is one of God's doctors of divinity clad in a slop-jacket." Out of his own heart there did indeed flow rivers. In the early days at a camp meeting at Little Hale, he was impressed to let others precession and sing and exhort, his work was to pray in every house and in-vite to the evening lovefeast. There were brethren who blamed him, but he was in the Divine secret, and in every house in the hamlet he did pray (except two—the public-house and another), the result being a packed chapel, thirty conversions, and the establishment of the infant cause.

Once he confessed he load to be on his guard against cupidity, and this he conquered, for he was generous. Here is an incident which shows his simplicity and the Divjne condescension. Praying, after his family had retired, about his next Sunday's work and asking for souls, the temptation came, " You care more for money than souls." Lord ! " was his reply, " for every soul thou will give me next Sunday I will put a shilling in the missionary box." Eight souls were given him, and eight shillings went into the box. Aye ! these interviews with God were times of power. His son Jarvis told me that on one occasion his father awoke them all with his shouts, and all—mother and children alike— realised the Divine glory, and were melted into tears, though as yet the young people were not consciously con-verted. "I hope the Lord won't afflict me much, I think I could not bear much pain," he often said. He once said this to me, and accompanied his " I could not bear much pain" with a laughable gesture of apprehension, stretching forward his right palm as if keeping back an approaching foe and drawing his breath with a prolonged " ooff." Did this weakness partly explain the mystery of the Divine permission of his murder, twenty-eight years since, by an Irishman, who robbed him of a few shillings and murdered him in his own house ? 'Three hours pre-vious a neighbour called and did a little task, and Mr. Newton, who was then a widower, spread him a meal. and, while this was being eaten, said " I'll sing for thee," and sang the hymn-

" When I survey the wondrous cross," and at the close of the meal he followed his hymn by prayer.

And here is " truth stranger than fiction." At the funeral his son William secretly promised God at the graveside that on his return to London he would give his heart to the Saviour. At that time I was second minister on the London Second Circuit, but neither of us knew that the other load come to live in London, for we had not met for ten years. On the first Sunday night after his return, he, in the spirit of his promise, started out to find a Primitive Methodist chapel of which he had heard, and guided by. the sound of open-air singing he was led to our chapel in Durham-road, Holloway, where that night I was preaching. We did not recognise each other, for both of us had altered. But I was led to announce for my first hymn-

" When I survey. the wondrous cross." When I announced the notices, I made a strange bluri-■

der—I announced the week-night service at this chapel, with which I was specially connected, on the wrong night. Accordingly, one of the leaders stood up and said "Mr. Ward would excuse him," and corrected the mistake. " Mr. Ward," thought Mr. Newton. " Is it the minister, I wonder, whom I knew years since ?" And, mark this, while preaching the impression came to me, " Let your sermon go and talk about John Newton." My bit of ser-monic instinct led me to take no notice. But again the impression was made and more strongly. " You have to let your sermon go and talk about John Newton." " All right, Lord ! " and so I spoke of his life and death. Then some coupling words were given me, which quite remark-ably connected what I had just said with what had gone before, and so the discourse became a harmonious whole, What followed ? The son walked to the pulpit at the close of the service to make himself known ; and was urged to stay at the prayer meeting and give himself to God. He did stay. However, the work was not completed- that night, as I was taken suddenly ill, and had to be led home. But my address was left for him, and the next night he came to my house and found the Saviour there. How blessedly did God help this seeker to keep his promise !

" Whoe'er shall move towards God an inch through doubtings dim, -

God shall advance in blazing light a mile to him." To Him be the glory, amen! Are there not more things

in heaven and earth than are dreamt of in philosophy.

THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. DECEMBER 4, 1913 866

James Carrington of Barton was a good man, but he was afflicted with a violent temper which had a habit of bursting into volcanic fury on the slightest provocation. It was a terrible infirmity, and greatly detracted from what otherwise was an estimable character. He was a pushful, industrious man, and proved that adventitious aids were not absolutely essential to success in the commercial world. His parents were poor, and sent him when a child into the factory to work ; and such was his lack of schooling that even when he reached his majority he could not write his own name. But, notwithstanding,

his rough upbringing, he became a prosperous manufac-turer. Many a mother praised him to her children as " one whom they should try to imitate." His tastes, when he was in his teens, were pugilistic : he had a great love for the ring. "He would rather," he said, "fight a battle any morning with another of equal size and weight than have his breakfast." He developed also a fondness for drinking and gambling, and most of the wages he earned speedily found lodgment in the publican's till. He was the liveliest of all his companions, full of dash and daring, and the ringleader in all kinds of mischief. He boasted that when in search of sport " he stopped at nothing." Once, when hard up for a shilling, he tricked the recruiting sergeant by enlisting for a soldier: but obtained his liberty afterwards by pretending that his sight was bad. The doctor, who was a bit suspicious, tested his eyes in every possible way, but it was no use—he found more than his match. The doctor stormed and

-threatened and did his best to trip him up, but failed, .and. although the young recruit's vision was simply perfect, his manoeuvring was so clever as to secure dis-missal for defective eyesight. Thoughtful people often shook their heads at the mention of his name, and all agreed that he would come to no good. Happily, such expectations were not realised ; an incident occurred which completely changed the course of his life. The Barton Primitives were holding protracted services ; the streets and lanes rang with their stirring choruses. One of their favourite hymns was, " Blow ye the trumpet, blow ! "—how lustily they sang !—and the quaint chorus which followed swept the singers into ecstasy.

" Bless the Lord, 0 my soul, Praise the Lord, 0 my brother. Shout and sing, 0 my sister, Give Him glory, 0 my father, And rejoice, 0 my mother,. And we'll travel on together, till we join

hand in hand in Canaan."

James Carrington, who was hurrying along the street-in dangerous mood, was strangely impressed by the singing. He knew the singers--two of them were his old, pals ; they were now tidily dressed, and seemed to be happy and getting on, while he was in debt and as miserable as lie could well he. He had just been refused credit by a publican with whom he had spent many a hard-earned sovereign, and, flaming with passion, he left the house, declaring his determination never to darken its doors again. He never intended to turn Methodist, but he followed the procession, and before he was aware of it he found himself in the chapel. The noise appealed to him, he liked the loud prayers and the boisterous singing ; new sensations thrilled him, he had never felt the like before. The preacher selected for his text, "Escape for thy life," and that night registered his conversion. It was a high time ; they laughed and wept, and thumped the forms with all their might, and were so overjoyed that they shook hands two or three times one with another. The new convert was welcomed in grand style, and for the first time in his life he heard himself addressed as " brother James." The kindness of the chapel folk quite broke him up, and he cried for very joy. They knew what the morrow would be likely to bring forth, and therefore wisely persuaded the new convert to put his mark to a temperance pledge card before he left the meeting. It meant a struggle for him to forsake the public-house, but his strong will with God's grace triumphed, and in spite of irony and ridicule he con-tinued firm. Traps were set to ensnare him, and all sorts of expedients were employed to dissuade him from turning Methodist, but he never faltered, and ultimately lost all desire for intoxicating drink.

The passing years witnessed great changes in the circumstances of James Carrington, and, at the time of which we write, he owned the factory in which he had worked as a boy ; it was now greatly enlarged, and found employment for hundreds of hands. He was a shrewd, far-seeing man, attentive to business, keen in detecting a bargain, and a stranger to failure ; everything he touched prospered. It was no trouble to him to make money, and he seemed able to get whatever his heart desired. He often admired the residence of Squire Tollemarche ; it was a charming spot, and, to the astonishment of the villagers, the picturesque little estate came unexpectedly into the market and was knocked clown to James Carrington as the highest bidder. But he could not persuade his wife to live there. " It was too aristocratic," she said.

Prosperity changed him somewhat, but his love for a simple life remained unchanged. He lived in a beautiful villa-, but the kitchen was more to his mind than the drawing-room. He maintained his connection with the little chapel and contributed generously to its support, but there was one trait in his character which, all through the years, greatly-troubled his friends as well as himself, and that was his hasty temper. He never learned the art of self-mastery. He would fly off at a, tangent when least expected. He could not suffer to be contradicted, and the scenes he often created were most discreditable. Mrs. Carrington was a patient soul, and the two elder sons, partners in the business, were said to "take after their mother" ; they-quietly endured their father's bad temper, not regarding 'too seriously the sharp, cutting words which he spoke. Bet Ronald, the younger boy, often winced under the lash of his father's tongue. He was a well-educated, high-spirited yOuth, engaged in the office. Christmas was approaching, and they found themselves unable to compete with the unusual" rush of orders received ; and Mr. Carrington was said to be suffering with an attack of nerves. He was specially irritable, as if under some evil influence. He snapped everybody, and Ronald in particular.

At length,. for a very trifling offence, he completely lost control of himself. He grew white with passion, and for the first time for many a long year he gave vent to his fury in words- of bitter cursing. The effect upon Ronald was for a moment like a terrific flash of lightning—he was terrified. Mr. Carrington was out of hand entirely, and said things he never meant to say. It was a- pitiable exhibition. Ronald, upon recovering from his surprise, resented his father's unwarrantable anger, and ventured to rebuke him for his inconsistency. This maddened his father beyond endurance, and, lifting up a ruler as if intending to strike, he screamed, " Go from my sight and never let me see.‘your face again! " Ronald, now equally infuriated, sprang from his desk, snatched his cap from its accustomed peg,, and hissed between his teeth, " take you at your word," and slammed the door behind him.

Mr. Carrington paced the office floor in k state of terrible agitation. He was quite unfit for further business ; his batch of letters remained unopened. He dropped in his chair and buried his face in his hands. The raging tumult of anger soon gave place to feelings of self-contempt. " What a fool I am! he exclaimed. " I must be mad ! God help me, what have I done? I've driven my boy away—driven him perhaps to ruin. How can I tell his mother?" His brain reeled with excitement.

Barton Railway Station was only a few minutes' walk from the factory, and, seeing a train signalled, Ronald ran for it, and found that it was the London express. He was just in time to get his ticket. Two hours later he stepped from Euston platform into- the throbbing heart of the great city.

James -Carrington broke the sad news to his wife, and in doing so took upon himself all the blame. She was astonished at his contrition ; he wept loudly.

" Don't fake on like that," she said. " Ronald is too hasty ; he lets his temper get the master of him. Your nerves are bad ; he ought to consider."

"Nay, lass, don't blame the lad. It is not my nerves, it is my temper that has made the mischief. I'll never forgive myself for what I have done this morning. I don't know what came over me. I never felt so wicked in my life. I despise myself, and my lad will despise me as long as he lives. I cursed him."

"No, no, James ; you are mistaken," she interrupted. " I cursed him," he repeated. • "I'll never believe it, James," she cried. " I've never

heard you make use of a swear word. since .I knew you, and I don't think you would so far forget yourself."

"I did, lass. I'm sorry, but it's too late_ now. I swore—a thing I've never done since I was converted till this morning. Yes, I cursed my own lad."

The poor mother now began to feel alarmed. " Where is he? she asked timidly.

" He's gone on the London train," he answered. They wept together, and James Carrington, falling on

his knees, in broken accents cried, "GO'd forgive me!" What a day that was! A. day of terrible grief and

sorrow. And yet at its close husband and wife were conscious of a more endearing relationship than they had known for many a long year.

The next morning they followed Ronald to London, but all efforts to discover his whereabouts failed ; they had not sufficient clue to work upon. The agony colUmns of the newspapers were freely used, and even the aid of Scotland Yard was invoked, but it was to no purpose. He had completely-passed out of sight.

am.. •

James Carrington was seriously ill for months follow-ing, and at one time his life was despaired of. He was never the same again. He aged considerably ; he was quieter, too, and gentler in his manner, less assertive, and a better man every way. He took more interest in the chapel and gave more liberally. No one knew how bitterly he regretted his conduct to his son Ronald ; and never a day passed without his praying for forgiveness and for the return of his boy. Absence made his heart fonder, and he often said that "he would willingly sacri-fice his right arm if by so doing he could call back the hateful words which drove his boy from home." "Oh,

why," he groaned, " do we speak words of pain to those we love?- Ally temper has -wrecked my happiness and ruined my boy."

Christmas was approaching. Would the good Lord answer his prayer and direct his Ronald home again?

• • . • •

A circus of great fame was coming to Nobridge, and the little town was agog with excitement. A large poster representing a huge buffalo monopolised every hoarding, and the wild-looking. animal seemed on the point of leap-ing from the wall into- the public street, arresting the attention of all who passed by Never before had a circus of such celebrity visited Nobridge. The marvellous feats of the cowboys were discussed in lively fashion in every farmhouse kitchen. It was said the riders could leap from back to back and fire revolvers when the horses were " going like mad." The circus excluded every other topic of conversation, and when it was rumoured that the publicans had received notice not to serve the Indians with intoxicating drinks eagerness to see them was greater than ever. At length the circus arrived, and from early dawn crowds of men were busy with the erection of what looked like acres of canvas. It was a gigantic task, but the- work was cleverly and expeditiously carried out in time for an afternoon's performance. The prices were high, but the place was well filled, while at night the crowds required twice the accommodation provided. The town was thronged ; vehicles poured in from all sides, the motor and bicycle being specially in evidence:

The last item in the day's programme was particularly exciting. The horses tore round the ring at lightning speed, the cowboys made themselves hoarse with nerve-racking cries, while the loud report of revolvers caused many in the audience to quake with fear. The Nitional Anthem followed, and the canvas quickly emptied.

The last to leave the circus was the pale-faced, tired-looking clerk. A large sum of money had passed through his hands that day, which was simply typical of many other days. The clerk's duties were fearfully exacting ; he had no leisure, he was busy early and late. He was required to be not only strictly honest and sober, but specially skilful in handling and counting money, and yet he received but little pay and scant favour. The riders were indulged and petted, but the clerk, notwith-standing the heavy responsibilities of his position, received but little recognition : skilled horsemen were more difficult to replace than a skilled money collector. Changes in the box had, however, been frequent on account of dishonesty and drunkenness and incom-petency. The present clerk—who was none other than Ronald Carrington—had made a long stay, and was acknowledged the best they had ever had.

He was nicknamed "Lammy," suggested doubtless by his quiet demeanour. He readily adopted the soubriquet, and was glad that no one troubled to ascertain his real name. The proprietor of the circus had a shrewd idea that Lammy was hiding either from his parents or from the police. He watched him for some time closely for the sake of his own pocket ; as for anything else, it did not concern him. The fellow was smart and served his purpose, and that was all he cared. Ronald was awfully weary of the circus life. Long hours and frequent changes of beds, and travelling in all weathers, and irregular meals, had told its tale. He was no longer the fiery spirit ho once was, and of late he had often a sore longing for home. His grudge against his father had lost its sting. He confessed to himself that he had been a good father, though hasty. He never denied what was for his good. He only swore at him that once, and he was sure his father would be sorry afterwards ; • and as for his mother, his going away must have broken her heart. How he longed for news ! To-night, as he went to his lodgings, his thoughts were full of home. The advance agent always arranged the accommodation necessary for the circus hands ; they rarely stayed more than one night in a place, and were expected to clear away at three o'clock the next morning. Ronald was billeted at a small cottage in a poor neighbourhood, but he was glad to find it clean and orderly. The husband was a cripple, and they were glad to supplement their meagre income by letting a bedroom now and then. Ronald always went straight to his lodgings when his work was done; he never joined the others in their drinking or revelry. They said " he was not of their set," nor was he. He lived a clean life, and continued, as from his birth, a total abstainer. The good influence of his home had never left him, and he scorned to do anything that would bring a blush to the face of any pure-minded maiden.

Mrs. Sergeant, his Nobridge landlaay, was a kind, talkative woman, and displayed genuine interest in the circus stranger. Directly Ronald saw her he was strongly impressed with the feeling that they had met before ; she, too, had a similar impression. She looked at him as he sat eating his bowl of hot milk and bread, and presently she exclaimed, " Dear me ! If they had not said that your name was Mester Lammy, I should have thought you were a Carrington." Ronald was annoyed with himself, for he felt his face flush up in a moment. During all the years he had been away no one had ever suspected his identity, and, strange to say, he had never seen anyone from his native village.

"Why do you say that?" lie asked sharply. "Well," she answered, " you are the very spit of the

Carringtons what I used to work for when I was a girL Ronald, the youngest son, they said runned away from home—he was a boy at school when I worked there, but I used to see him at the factory sometimes ; but it was after I left that he went to work in the office, but his father driv' him off. Mester Carrington were a goad mester, but he had a dreadful bad temper. But you are like him ; you've got his mouth and nose." Ronald tried to laugh, but it was a poor attempt—he was toe much agitated. " Your voice, too," the woman con-tinued, "is exactly like Mester Alfred's., You must excuse me hein' so bold, but I got quite a start when I first heard you speak." -

" Did the young Carrington never go home again?" 124 stammered.

" Temper Wrecks more Homes than Drink." cot+e44,+0+e•e+0+e+e+e+e+04.0

By A. JACKSON SMITH.

OW344.4404+44,4+44•4+4+44+4,1*(44.4

LOT 4. The Price is an insult to the Goods. Stock too heavy of ladies' grey stockin-

ette Divided Skirts, hard wearing, good washing, comfort able wearing, 1/- per pair, or 3 pairs for 2/10.

LOT 5. Not what they are worth by a long way.

den's good quality natural merino Pants and Vests, unshrinkable make, in

• all sizes to 36 in. chest, 1/- each.

LOT 6. The loss is yours if you don't buy, mine

if you do. Elaborate white or ecru Lace Curtains,

31i yards long, 60 inches wide, sold this season at 8/11 per pair, now 4/6 per pair, or 2 pairs for 8/9.

3280.-The Ladies' Case, richly lined Satin, with white back Hair Brush, Comb and Mirror, with Nickel Spring Lock. Wholesale price 3/4 each, or three for 9/6, post free.

LoT 13. A Bargain you must buy for the Table.

Dainty DecoratedChina Sugar Dredgers, with electro-plated nickel silver top, 8d. each, or two for 1/3.

LOT 14. What about Teaspoons?

Six Genuine Scotia Silver Teaspoons, will wear white to the last, the lot for

post free.

LOT 22. Yukon Silver Nickel-Plated Cake Basket,

looks like an expensive real silver article, fit for any table, an excellent line for hotels and restaurants, and is made to stand rough usage and constant wear, 1/3 for a single one, or 11/6 for one dozen, carriage paid.

LOT 220. Can you do with Roller Towels ?

5 yards of thick brown striped Turkish Towelling, 14 inches wide, sufficient for two towels, for 1/6.

LOT 230. Table Covers much below Value.

Nice quality crimson or olive tapestry Table Covers, 60 inches square, to be sold at 3/- each.

DECEMBER 4, 1913 THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. 867

SENSATIONAL VALUE IN SEASONABLE GOODS! STOCKS ARE TOO HEAVY, SO DOWN GOES THE PRICE.

BARGAINS TO DELIGHT ALL BUYERS.

SYDNEY GEORGE The Great Postal Warehouse,

I GEORGE STREET, BIRMINGHAM. SHOPKEEPERS CAN MAKE A GOOD PROFIT ON THESE GOODS AND GIVE THEIR CUSTOMERS UNUSUAL VALUE.

LOT 1. - This Lot has caused a sensation.

100 artistic and dainty Xmas Greeting Cards, nearly all four-fold. Shopkeepers can retail at id. each, and give their customers good value, the packet of 100 cards for 1/6, post free.

1_LOT S.

Another Lot which•surprises the Trade. 12 exceedingly pretty four-fold private

Greeting Cards, tied with cord and your own name and address printed for 1/-, 18 for 1/4, or 25 for 1/8, with envelopes to fit, post tree. Send for illustrated list, post free.

LOT 3. The mild weather has made the Price.

275 pairs of heavy white real Yorkshire cloth double bed Blankets, size 66 by 86, 7 lbs. weight, usually sold at 15/6, finished ends ; out they go at 12/6 the pair, carriage paid, or a bale of 3 pairs, for 36/6.

LOT 7. Trousers at less than the cost of the

Tweed. Men's good wearing neat mixture dark

tweed Trousers, in all sizes trim 30 to 40 waist, almost cheap enough to cat up for hearth' nes, at 4/6.

LOT 8. Boy's Suits for the cost of the making.

Three garment dark tweed Jacket Suits, to fit boys 6 and 7 years of age, in down-right good wearing tweeds, the suit for 3/6, and when you see it you will admit it is worth more than this to make.

LOT 9. If only tho cold weather had come early.

Men's warm and thick plain grey Flannel Shirts, in all sizes from 14i to 1711 neckband ; out they go to delight the onrchaseis. at 2'44 each, or 2 for 4/8.

LOT 100. A price I never dreamt of when I bought.

Men's heavy black knitted Cardigan Jackets, in all sizes from 32 to 40 chest, to be cleared at 2/9 each,

LOT 11. One Lot only for each Customer.

A Good Waterproof Nursing Apron and two Waterproof Bibs, the lot for 1/-

LOT 12. Ladies will be pleased with this Lot. Ladies' Super:or Ribbed Merino Com-

binations, in cream or natural, high neck, half sleeves, button front, in all sizes to 28 waist, excellent wear, unshrinkable. FOR, A SHORT TIME ONLY. 2/8 • per pair, or two pairs for 4/10.

LOT 23. A useful Nickel-plated Crumb Tray and

Brush, would be cheap at 2/11. Sydney George's price 1/6, or three for 4/..

LOT 16. Genuine Sheffield Table Knives.

Six first - class Sheffield Steel Table Knives, with white zylo handles, worth 1/-each, the lot packed in box for 2/10, or six Dessert Knives for 2/4.

If this Value does not Surprise you nothing will.

LOT 21. Yukon Silver Nickel-Plated Card Tray,

well and strongly made, equals sterling ,ilver in appearance, 14 ins. long, 9 ins. wide. There is nothing common about this but the price, 1/6. Shopkeepers and hotels can have half a dozen for 7/6.

2625.-Ladies' Companion Satin and Plush lined Case, wills Nickel Spring Lock, con-taining crochet hook, two bodkins, scissors, button-hook, two packets of needles, two reels of cotton, two balls of cotton, and thimble. Wholesale pricel/9 each, or three for 5/-, post free.

LOT 16. Death of a Sheffield Manufaoturer.

I have bought nearly 3,000 cases of Carving Knife, Fork and Steel, to clots an estate. Superior goods, with white zylo or stag handles. Your choice of-either kind at 8/6 the case.

LOT 17. Do you Oversleep ?

Buy one of my celebrated Crown Nickel Case Alarm Clocks, commonly known as the sleep breaker. For a few days only you can have one only for 2/6.

LOT 18. For those who Skate, and those who don't.

Ladies' Superior Knitted Rink Jerseys, in brown, myrtle, or reseda, a good, warm, useful garment. formerly 3/11, now 2/-

LOT 10. This should be Handkerchief Time. Six Children's White Cambric hand-

kerchiefs, 18 inches square, hemmed ready for use, for 6d,

LOT 20. A Good Thick Bath Towel is always

useful. Just a few dozen superior quality Red

and Brown Striped' Turkish Bath Towels, size 24 by 48 inches, to go at 1/2 each, or 2/3 the pair.

LOT 210. Save Ono Shilling on a Tablecloth.

Good heavy white damask Table Cloths, 58 inches square, with hemstitched border, worth 3/6. to go at 2/6 each, or 2 for 4/10.

LOT 24. A Rare Bargain in Costume Lengths. 43 yards of Mid Grey, Neat Mixture,

Heavy Wool Costume Tweed, 48 inches wide, worth 19/6, for 9/9.

LOT 25. A Brown Alpaca Dress L:ngth at a Low

Price. 5 yards of fine quality Mid Brown, Self-

striped Alpaca, 40 inches wide, worth 7/9, for 4/4.

LOT 26. Grey Calico Sheets.

Good Serviceable, Plain Grey Calico Sheets, 70 by 90 inches, excellent value at 4/- per pair.

LOT 27. A Rare Bargain in Lace Net.

Dainty Design in Ecru I ace Curtain Net, frilled on both sides, 32 inches wide, worth 1/- per yard; reduced to 51d. per yard, or 5/6 per dozen.

LOT 28. Grey Twill Sheets.

Good Durable Grey Twill Sheets, 60 by 80 inches at 3/3 per pair, or 2 pairs for 6/4.

LOT 29. Bedroom Laos Curtains. Pretty Design

in White Lace. 2i yards long, 27 inches wide, 1 3 per pair;

21i yards long, 34 inches wide 1/6 per pair.

LOT 30. Ladies' Hole-less Stockings. Save Darning.

Excellent wearing Black Ribbed Cash-mere finished Stockings, seamless feet, 9d. per pair, or three pairs for 2/-

LOT 31. may Shaving with your own Razor. The Celebrated Hanburg Ring Razor,

which has been sold at all prices up to 5/6 each, I am offering at 1/-

LOT 32. Ladles' Real Whalebone Corsets.

Boned Real Whalebone, fitted with suspenders, cut low in bust ; all sizes from 18 inches to 30 inches, 2/- per pair.

2890.-Satin-lined Case with Nickel Sprin 3116.-A Case containing Gentleman's

g Military Hair Brush and Comb, for 1/9, or Lock, containing two Gents' good Military three for 5/-, post free.

- Hair Brushes and Comb. Wholesale price 9/9 each, or three cases for 9/3, post free.

All orders carriage paid. Send for my Free Illustrated Catalogue of All Departments.

SYDNEY GEORGE, The warr:hout seFostal George St BIRMINGHAM. Established 1897, Telegrams: "Ubigne." Telephone: South 94. Bankers: London City .& Midland,

HALF PRICE VOUCHER. To TEE LUDGATE AGENCY,

I, Ludgate CIrciv, . Loudon, E.C.

Dear Sir,— Please mend me an Elbron Teapot, for which I enclose

order or cheque value 12e. 6d.

Hams

Addre:e

Tax PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER.

868 THE PRIMITIVR METHODIST 'LEADER DECEMBER 4, 1913

" No. I don't think they ever heard of him again," she replied ; " but they still advertises for him every' Christ-mas in the newspapers."

"Is that so?" inquired Ronald, with well-concealed concern.

" Yes," she said, " but he never answers." Ronald broke into a profuse perspiration, for which he

laughingly blamed the hot milk. " Is his mother living still?" he asked. " Oh, yes," she replied, " and his father too. His father

took it very bad ; he was ill a long time, and they thought he would have died."

" Do you say they advertise for him every Christmas ?" he asked.

" They does that," she responded ; " they advertises in all the London papers."

Ronald anxiously asked quite a number of questions and gleaned considerable information, and then he excused himself by saying he would go to bed. -

" We always 'as prayers when we are by ourselves," Mrs. Sargeant said. " I guess you circus people don't bother much with the Bible, but we reads a chapter every night. Do you mind ? " she asked.

" Not at all. I will be very glad to join you," replied Ronald.

" We are reading about Joseph just now," Mr. Sargeant said. " I read, and my wife always prays." The tears stole down Ronald's face as he listened to the 'old but ever-new story of Joseph and his brethren, and when they rose from their knees he murmured to himself, "I will go home."

He could not sleep that night, and before daylight the following morning he-had left the town.

Christmas was near at hand. An old-fashioned Christ-mas was predicted. The beautiful snow mantled the trees and carpeted with white the fields as far as the eyes could reach. The clouds were full of snow, and softly the flakes descended, eddying and swirling hither and thither in countless numbers. James Carrington and his wife sat in their cosy parlour in the early afternoon. A cheerful fire blazed in the grate, and their talk was of days long past when the children were little and the family circle unbroken.

" Do you know, James," explained Mrs. Carrington. " I've put Ronald's room ready ; I have a notion he will come home this Christmas."

James gasped. "Whatever has put that notion in y.e head, Lizzie ?" he cried.

" I canner tell you, James. Women's heads often gets notions, and I'm not often wrong, as you know."

" My dear," he said, " if- you are right this time it will be the happiest Christmas we have had for seven years, and I will give £100 to one of the London missions as a thankoffering in place Of killing the fatted calf."

A sharp rat-rat was heard at the door. " Whoever's coming?" they both exclaimed in one breath. The next moment the sitting-room door flew open, and Ronald, the long-lost Ronald, stood before them.

A VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS PARTY.

By Dorothea.

" Everybody gives a party at Christmas, mother," said May, rather wistfully. " Yes, dear, but you all expect so much in these days. Now, when I was a girl we were contented with very simple entertainment. We made our own fun, sang songs and glees, ate simple fare, looked out prettiest in white muslin and blue ribbons, then went home very happy on the right side of ten o'clock. Look at this "—and I held up an inoffensive square of card-board. " Mks. and Miss Dorothy Blank request the pleasure of the company of Miss May Brookes," and in the corner, " Dancing from 7 to 12. Ridiculpus, my dear, and wrong." " But, dear mother," in a wheedling tone, " I am not going there, of course, and our party could be just lovely, especially if you were there." I felt the asperity going out of my heart, and my voice was soft and kind as I said, " Well, well, we will see." "I'll tell you, mother. Let us call it an Early Victorian party ; it would be the very newest thing." So it was agreed. We sent out invitations on cards gaily decked by May's clever fingers with roses and lilies ; we put in the persuasive and personal "Do come if you can " in the old style ; twenty of them were carefully carried to the post office, then we waited in some trepidation for replies. For I was on my mettle ; I had often described our parties, and May thought them much jollier than the modern ones.

So now I had to justify my claim. The hours were " five to ten o'clock," which May was afraid would make the High School girls turn up their noses. But nineteen out of the twenty accepted. Then came such a consulta-tion about the dresses. White or pink muslin, made with many frills, and of a generous fulness, was decided upon. Every girl meant to make her own. Now came a busy time for me. I made old-fashioned currant cakes, and pies of many sorts and sizes, with concessions.to modern science in the form of jellies and creams. Plenty of good pure cream and home-made lemonade flanked the large tea-table and sideboard. - It was a pretty and very happy sight to see those girls and boys (oh, of course even early Victorians did not shut out the boys !) sitting at the table, bright with flowers and shining silver, all the family portraits behind them, wreathed in evergreen and ap-parently approving of a return to commonsense ways. How they ate and laughed, as one said, " This cake makes me want more all the time" (in all modesty, I really can make good cake). Not one of them minced or looked bored when anything was passed to them. Then the frills floated about the hall in an attempt to evade Fred in " Blind Man's Buff " ; they hunted the slipper, told forfeits, turned the trencher; sang out the old carols

in a way which would have shocked Menseignor Italic, but which delighted John and me. Then—ali, me !—they frisked in and out of the rooms like fairies bent on holiday, and even the piano ceased to be demure and caught the general hilarity, and I never noticed the dumb note.

Time flew past, and these modern young faces, with all their learning and desire for votes, looked quite juvenile and happy—they had forgotten their cares for once. I never saw during the whole evening a single French shrug of the shoulders, nor any of the languid flirtations of the present day ; not one Italian song was sung, but through the whole evening a healthy, hearty pleasure in simple things was very clearly felt. Supper was passed round by merry, boyish waiters ; little ripples of laughter stirred every now and then. When all were satisfied, someone started the old " God rest you, merry gentlemen," and with many a happy interlude carols were sung. Then we all stood clasping and crossing hands in the old way as we sang right tunefully " Auld Lang Syne," which con-tinued as long as we had breath to sing and sway. Ten o'clock! A carriage drove up for a full cargo ; out they tripped pulsing with joy, full of music to the lips. " A very jolly party, mater, and a sensible one," said my John ; then I felt rewarded.

But May came into the drawing-room and whispered, "I liked it awfully, mother ; so did all the others. Thank you, thank you." " Our" party was voted a big success by the guests, their parents, and by the servants, who were able to get to rest in reasonable time. The nervous strain was so little, and the enjoyment so great, that we shall have more as the winter goes on. The doctor called and said, " I am really grateful to you, Mrs. Brookes, for your party. Elsie had a ripping time, and your example of early hours and simple ways has done more than all my lectures to bring sense into some folks." Then John and I talked it over, and we think that it is not the young folks who demand unwholesome food and sensational entertainment, but that their parents are chiefly to blame for countenancing these modern tendencies. We like to keep our children young and fresh ; we think of the future with its tale of work and strain, and we do not mean May to waste her vitality by long hours in heated rooms, " dancing from 7 to 12." She is as bright as her name suggests, her spirits are equable, she knows nothing of nerves, and as unself-conscious as the morning sun-shine, ready for work or play. And we mean to keep her so, if simple living and innocent gaiety will help her. It is sad to see blase faces in young girls, who have scarcely tasted life before they complain of its lack of flavour. Where will the poets and dreamers come from if we use up their energies in youth? Where the enduring and resourceful mothers, if they are weary at eighteen?

"Coming, May." I hear her clear voice calling me to walk with her. I am' glad she likes her mother as a com-panion. We have so much to talk about on these excur-sions, and it is nice—nay, it is a heavenly privilege—to see the development of a girl's soul, and guide its progress over perplexing paths.

ROYAL IFT. H.M. QUEEN MARY

accepts one of the wonderful new Elbron Silver-Plate China-lined Teapots.

AND WE NOW OFFER YOU ONE AT HALF PRICE. H.M. Queen Mary, is much pleased With the teapot, and will treasure it as a

pleasing memento of her visit to the potteries:"

These are the words which conclude a letter from H.M. Queen Mary in accepting one of ithe new Elbron Silver-plate China-lined Teapots, which was tendered to her by the manufacturers. Queen Mary has thus set the seal of Royal approval on an entirely new industry. A few years ago it would have been deemed an iml.ossiblity to permanently line a silver-plate teapot with even china, yet now it is an accomplished fact, for that is indeed what Elbron ware is. It is the result of a happy combination of the arts of the silversmith and potter, and consists of a strong metal outer shell thickly plated witlusilver and lined with high grade china. No other teapot looks so well or can make tea so perfectly. -

The Elbron Teapot is unique in the fact that it possesses the combined advantages of the all-metal teapot and the all-china teapot, without their disadvantages. Having a china lining it makes delicious tea and does not store up tannin on the inside to the eetriment of your stomach. The silver-plated outer shell retains the heat of the tea and insures you getting a perfectly refreshing drink. Because of its strong lining an Llbron Teapot cannot become battered or disfigured.

The (lcorgian design of the presort Elbron Teapot, by its chaste beauty and daintiness, will commend itself to all lovers of the artistic. It assuredly adds new charm to the tea-table, and will certainly please and excite the admiration of your guests.

The Elbron Teapot has been valued by Messrs. Spink & Son, Ltd., of Piccadilly, :Silversmiths to H.M. The King, at no less a sum than 25s.

To celebrate the Queen's acceptance of the Elbron Teapot we have been able to make special arrangements so ,that the readers of THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER may obtain this teapot at exactly half price. Thus every reader of THE Peisirrive METHODIST LEADER is invited to possess one of these wonderful new teapots, and the only charge will be 12..s. Si., just half the price at which the teapot has been valued by the Royal Silversmiths.

Any one person cannot be supplied with more than one teapot at this price. Only a limited number can be supplied for the purpose, therefore it is absolutely necessary that all who desire one should send at once, fill in the coupon annexed and enc'o-e postal order or cheque 125. Gd , and the teapot will be sent carefully packed by return post. It will- be sure to give ails:lute satisfaction.

The following report has been received from Messrs. Spink & Son, Ltd., 17/18, Piccadilly, London, Silversmiths by Appointment to H.M. The King, Established 1772.

lone woe 191).— We haw examin.d toe Ebron silver-el lted temoot susinies I to us. It is a mast wonderful reproduction as to design of one of tee early ca orgian pattern supolied by us The hy tien,c properties of the ISIttron Teapot, combined with the protective metal sheathing make it a most desirable arttc:e for tilotestiJ use. in are opin 'on, 258. woad rvresent a fair rotaiS prioo to the public.—For Spink Cc Son, Ltd., JOHN M. SPINS; Director."

DECEMBER 4, 1913 THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. 869

Tommy Barlow, overman at the Elmoor Colliery, stood gazing into the fire, and seeing pictures in the flames.

" Ay ! but it must be bonnie to go to the varry place where the Lord was born. I wad like fine to see it before I dee. Also- Nazareth, where he worked like a common carpenter, and Bethany, where Lazareth, and Martha and Mary lived, and Jerusalem. It wad myek these old eyes watter, and I wad just pull off my shoes, and say, Surely, this is holy ground!"

" What's the use of talkin' like that ?" said his wife. " There is as much likelihood of thee ever gannin' as there is of my gannin' to the moon ; so tyek thee tay and be glad that thou lives in aad England ; and in the bonnie county of Northumberland. If the Lord had wanted thee to gan to the Holy Land, he wad hey given thee wings, or else have seen thou was born rich."

Thomas Barlow was a Methodist of a type which will socn be as extinct as the Dodo. His Bible and his hymn-book formed his library, and yet he was a well-read man. True, he knew more about Ezekiel than he did about Emerson, and was more familiar with the sins of Ahab than those of modern London.

A lantern lecture had been delivered by a minister at Elmoor Chapel on the Holy Land, and for many days Thomas could talk about nothing else. It was with him night and day. He wearied his wife with his talk about the beauties of the Valley of Jordan, and the weird dread haunting the region Of the Dead Sea. And a great long-ing took hold of him to go.

Three months passed, and one morning the postman brought a letter that greatly surprised Tommy. His brother, who many years before had gone to Australia, had died and left him ten thousand pounds.

The first thing he said when he got over his surprise, was " We will gan now, lass."

" Gan ! Where ?" asked his wife. " To the Holy Land," was his reply. " Thou and me

will gan and see where the Lord was born and deead." " Na'ay,' she said. " It's not to be thowt aboot at our

age. We are passed trapezing all over the world now." " Why ! " said Thomas, " I'm no-but sixty, and thou are

three years younger than me ; and thou looks ten years younger than thou is. Thou would pass for fifty cny time, and are a seet bonnier than ony of the young 'uns yet. We'll gan, I say. I'll never die happy till I've seen the Jordon."

" Divvent be daft, Tommy. I knaw weel enuff thet I'm aad and grey, and a pretty seet I should be gallawanting aboot in furrin' parts, where for ought I knaw they'd want me to walk in high-heeled boots or ride on a donkey."

" They ride cn camels' backs," said Tommy, and --" " Camels' back ! " shrieked his wife; " and dost to think

I hey na mair respect for myself than git on the back o' sue o' them critures wi' humps I That settles it. Naay camels' backs for me."

" Well," said Tommy. I dinna knaw whether the samels are indispensible, but fra what Mr. Derby said, you'd be as easy as in your aad rocking chair. It's only the thowts on 't thet's freetin' thee."

" I tell thee, Tommy Barlow, there's na power on earth should get me on the back of one of them animals. I wadn't gan if all the kings in and out of,the Bible came and begged of me on their bended knees to gan. Foaks wad think I had gone dotty. Naay, naay, I'll bide at hyem in my aad age, and if thou must gan an' risk thy neck, weel, gan, but not I. I think nowt o' them furrin parts myself. I've heard the missionaries saay thet there are wild men -dressed in nowt but sunshine, and thet the wimin are just slaves, and eat roots and raw flesh. laugh!"

" Oh!" laughed Thomas, "thet's in Africa ; but Pales-tine is different. It's true that it's in the hands of the Tasks, but they are kind o' civilised. They wunno hurt you, lass. Mr. Derby said they were real kind to him1".

"They might, be," answered his wife, " but I wouldna trust 'em as far as I could see 'em. I want nothing tee dee with Turks. I'll stay at home and look after the house, and thou can gan if thou hasn't sense enuff tee knaw where- thou art weel off."

It was a great blow to Thomas's hopes. To use his wife's words, " he moped like a hen in the moult." Having now no need to go to the pit, he hung Abut the pit bank in the day time and the chapel at night. It was a new thing for him to have nothing to do.

Mary watched him until pity got the master of her. One evening she said suddenly, " Tommy, we will gan."

" Gan where, woman 7" he asked in astonishment. " To where ye want to gan in furrin parts." " Ye divvint mean to Palestine?" asked Thomas, catch-

ing his breath. "Ay," she replied, "to where the Lord was born and

died." " But thowt thou was feast of the watter ?" "Shall we hey to cross the watter? " she asked slowly. "Ay, woman ; and it will be many a long day's journey

too." Mary studied the coffee grounds in the bottom of her

cup for some time, and played with her spoon. The fact was she had all the fear of ships and the ocean that comes from the unknown. Born and reared inland, she had seen but little of the sea. True, she had crossed the ferry from

'North to South Shields, but not all Thomas's persuading could induce her to go back that way, and they had returned by Newcastle-on-Tyne. And now, to think of days on the sea disturbed her greatly ; but, looking into her husband's face and seeing the wistfulness in his eyes, she said : " All reet, Tommy, we'll gan. But mind, 1 divvent ride on any camels' backs."

" All reet, woman," said Tammy, jumping up in great glee. " It will be a grand trip. My wurd ! you'll ha' sumthing to tell the neiehbours when ye git back." Mary

faintly smiled and turned to the cupboard to hide her face.

A few days after Thomas informed her that he had arranged with Cook's, and that if things went all right they would be in Palestine by Christmas.

"Just think of it! " he exclaimed. " We shall spend Christmas Day at Bethlehem. And thou and I will sing ' Christians, awake' on the vars.)? spot where Jesus was born. I shall sit up all neet and read my Testament and think aboot the angels and the shepherds and the Wise Men from the East. It will be almost as good as if we had been there at the time. Ay ! I guess He was a bonnie bairn to look at, and His mother wad be mighty proud of Him." And Tommy began singing :-

" While shepherds watched their flocks by night, All seated on the ground, The angel of the Lord came down, And glory shone around."

Every night he got his fiddle down and played Christ-mas hymns and carols, and for the life of her Mary could not tell him of the fear that was gripping her heart. How she got through the next few weeks it is difficult to tell. A thousand times she regretted having given her promise. The thought of going made a new man of Tommy. He whistled and sang all day : " Oh, Canaan, bright Canaan, I'm bound for the land of Canaan."

Mary took her neighbours into her confidence, and some said they wished they were in her place, while others declared they wad not gan for anything. One brought her a remedy for sunstroke, and advised her to wear two pairs of stockings when travelling to keep her feet warm. As the eventful day approached she became more uneasy ands restless.

" I'll tell thee what we will dee," said Tommy. " In-stead of ganning to London by train, we'll gan fra' New-castle by boat, and then thou'll get a taste of the sea before we begin our lang voyage."

Quite a number of friends gathered to see them off. " You mon remember us on Christmas Day," said

Thomas. " All being well we shall be in Bethlehem, and when the clock strikes twelve I shall pray for you at Elmoor. I wish I could tyek you all with me •, but when I come back I will tell you all about it. When you are eating your Christmas dinner, just think of me and my aad sweetheart here, and it will be like what the aad hymn says :—

" Tho' sundered far by faith, we'll meet Around one common mercy seat."

Just as the train was coming in, a man pushed through the crowd, and said, " Tommy, if thou meets wi' our Bill out foreign, I wish thou'd tell him to cum hyem or write. His mother's fair frettin' herself to death about him, and saays he's bin drowned or eaten by savages, or summut."

" Ay," said Tommy, " that I will. What part o' the warld did he gan to ? '

" Oh ! America, or Canada, or sum of those ootlandish places."

" I'm not ganning that way this journey," replied Thomas, with a smile, " but some day I may. There's no tellin' now me and my sad woman are tykin' to globe trottin'. I've heard say at foaks what tyek tee drink in their aad age are the wust, and it may be the same wi' travellin'."

The guard blew his whistle and the train started. Off went the pair, to the waving of hands and the good wishes of their simple-hearted neighbours. At Newcastle they went on board ship, and Mary's tremors returned in four-fold strength ; but with a good deal of persuasion she was induced to stay on deck, and watched the boats as they sailed passed. All went well so long as they were in the Tyne, and Tommy enjoyed himself immensely, and his wife caught some of his high spirits. Directly, how-ever, they struck the open sea, the boat commenced to rock. Quite a stiff breeze was blowing, and the boat heaved and tossed like a piece of drift wood on the waves.

" Hah ! Hah I " shouted Tommy, as she pitched for- ward. This is grand. Hold tight, woman.'

But Mary had turned a whitish green, and her poor, feeble hands clung nervously to the side of the ship. There was a wild, frightened look in her eyes. The wind caught her hair, and, flinging it loose, tossed it to and fro, and seemed to delight in making sport of the poor creature. All she could say was, " Oh ! Tommy, tyek me "hyem."

She was very sick, and Thomas, assisted by one of-the sailors, got her down into the cabin, where she lay in mortal terror. It seemed every moment as though the ship was going down, and, although she was assured a dozen times there was no danger, she could not think so. The hours passed as though they were days, and all the time she lay looking at the top of the cabin, her lips quivering and moving as if in prayer.

It was a very stormy night, and Mary never slept a wink, and in the middle of the night Tommy heard her praying. It was a simple, childlike prayer, in which she asked, for her husband's sake, for patience to bear what-ever suffering might lay before her, and strength to carry out her purpose," For Lord, Thou knowest his heart is grately set on 't," she said.

In the bunk above, Tommy (whom she thought fast asleep) swept his hands across his eyes and made the greatest act of renunciation in his life.

In the morning his wife was still sick, and she looked at least twenty years older than when they started.

" Are we nearly there, Tommy? " she asked faintly. " Nearly where, lass?" said Tommy. "At Palestine? " she murmured. "Naay, lass," replied her husband, "we are not at

London yet."

" And is it far from London ? " inquired she. " Nivver thee mind," said Tommy. " I've been thinkin',

lass, we will put off this trip for a wee while longer, and when we reach London we will just get sumthing to eat thou likes, and then we will tyek the fust train back to Newcastle. I'm not so set on gannin' to Jerusalem as I was. I heard sumthing last night thet took my longiie away."

" But," she stammered, " I thowt thou was so eager to gan nought wad put thee off it."

" Well," said Tommy, " it's this way, lass, when I was a lad, I yanoe took a great fancy for oysters. A man was selling some down the rows, and I bothered my mother until she bought two pen.north ; though it was the last twopence she had got. And the varry fust oyster myed one sick. The man said they were rale natives, but that yan was a settler. I have never wanted oysters since ; so the fast bit of the journey's done fur me. Naay, we'll gan back to canny Newcastle."

When they arrived in London, the great city with its crowds completely surprised and dazed them. It was evening, and they did not know a single soul in the metropolis. •

"I knaw what I'll dee," said Tommy, as 'they stood gazing hopelessly over London Bridge. " I'll ax' the varry next policeman I see if he can tell me where we can find a Primitive Methodist minister."

Shortly afterwards he discerned a policeman directing the traffic, and so going across to him, he said, "I say, Maister, can you tell one where the nearest Primitive Methodist minister lives ?"

The London policemen are accustomed to having some strange questions put to them, and are proverbial for their courtesy, but Tommy's Northern dialect puzzled the officer, who was a cockney born and bred, and he had to repeat his question three times before he could make him-self understood. The policemen then shook his head.

" I believe he's never heard of a Primitive Methodist in all his life," said Tommy, on rejoining his wife. " What a God-forsaken place London must be ! But we will try again directly."

And so he did, with no better result. " I've always heard say that London was a wicked city,"

he said, on receiving his second rebuff, " and now I be-lieve it. But hear is a parson oomin' ; I'll ask him. Whys I dee believe it's Mr. Singleton ; him that prached aar Schule sermons last year but yan. Thou remembers him, lass ? He prached a grand sarmon aboot Hezekiah's poultice of figs, although what it had to dee wi' schules and bairns I've been puzzled tee knaw ever since."

Whatever the quality of Mr. Singleton's school ser-mons, he played the part of the Good Samaritan to the two strangers, and when he learned their story insisted that they should go home with him and stay for the night. Then he and his hospitable wife persuaded Thomas and his wife to lengthen their stay for a week and see the sights of London, and they had, as Tommy put it, "the time of their life," and he returned the kindness of the

ARTHUR W. HAYES, DENE HOLM,

Elm Avenue, NOTTINGHAM.

LOOK AHEAD! Mr. STEWARD,

Mr. HAYES is full up until next March, and has no week-ends until 1915, so write at once for terms and dates for a prospective booking.

DURRAN CRITIC saws

We confess we went to Dr. Sinclair's church on Sunday night with a rather critical feeling; we endo sed the vi-w of the Cape Times that he was the greatest elocutionist that ever came to Soul li Africa, but a man sometimes finds his dramatic power to &tract rather, than aid him R.S .a preacher. Not so, Mr. Haps. e realised we were listening to a man with a purl o•e. His reading t.f the hymns gave them new meaning, and hi reading of the Scripture was a revelation in the way Holy Writ should be read, but his sermon was a gigantic effort of fluent oratory, deep thinking and originality, with such a deep spiritual earnestness, that we very much question if we could not correctly add to the eulogy paid by the Cape hintes, and say that he is also one of the greatest preachers that ever

PP visited this country

JOHANNF.SRURG STAR Nat's :—

" We agree w th Dr. Viljeon, the Director of Education for the Oranee Free State, who said last week that ' Mr. Hayes' forceful delineation of the immortal Dickens has been a revelation to the people who hive teen privileged to listen to him.' His charming personality, his sterling Christian character, his gifts of oratory, his marvellous diction, and wonderful memory fitted him so perfectly for the task befase him that we could with nothing better than that every citizen of that great city should come under his spell as they had Leen privileged to do last night."

Why Tommy Barlow did not Spend Christmas in Bethlehem.

By Rev. S. HORTON,

RONCHIAL CATARRH and WHOOPING MICH.

Little Baby Girl and Brother and Sister com-pletely cured by Veno's—" The most wonderful medicine I have ever known "the mother says-

The priceless value of Veno's Lightning Cough Cure as a family medicine is again shown in the story here told by Mrs. R. Williams, of 41, Byron Road, Weildstone, Middlesex. Mrs. Williams says : "I cannot speak too highly of Veno's Lightning Cough Cure. It cured my little baby girl when she was so i 1 with bronchial catarrh that I thought she could never pall through. She was dreadfully choked up and had violent fits of coughing which left her quite exhausted. Everything I tried proved useless, doctor's medicine included, till I gave her Veno's. It was wonderful how she improved then. Day by day she got better,. till soon she was completely cured. Veno's has also cured her little brother and sister of whooping cough, and I have taken it myself for a cold with excellent results. It is the most wonderful medicine I have ever known."

Mrs. Williams and family.

AWARDED CR AND PRIX AND COLD MEDAL, PARIS HEALTH EXHIBITION. 1910.

Veno's Lightning Cough. Cure 2:8 the safest and surest remedy for , di ASTHMA, BRONCHITIS, NASAL CATARRH, INFLUENZA, CHILDREN'S COUGHS,

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THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. DECEMBER 4, 1913 870

minister and his. wife by opening a sale of work, and surprised and cheered the hearts of the workers by an offer to double: all they raised, which he did.

On the list night of his memorable visit, the minister was called upon to visit a young wife, who had been married only ten months, and whose husband—a sailor—had been drowned, together with all hands, a few days before he was expected home. Tommy accompanied the minister. They found one tragedy had followed on the heels of another, for the shock had been too much for the young wife, only a mother thirty-six hours before the sad tidings reached her, and she lay dead, with a living child by her side. So far as they could gather, the young couple had both been oyphans, and there was nobody to °are for the child. The neighbours—with that kindness which characterises. the poor in their relationship with one another in sorrow and distress, had done what they could, but the only suggestion they could make with re-gard to the future of the child was to send it to the work-house.

" I wonder what our Mary wad say if I took her the bairn," said Tommy to the minister. " It's alwis bin a sair place wi' .baith on us that we nivver had ony children of our aln, and her sa fond thet she'll kiss and cuddle a neighbour's bairn for hours together. If you'll wrap thet bairn in a blanket I'll tyek it tee her anyway and see what she says about it."

"Had you not better send for your wife here? " said the minister, with a smile. The sight of Tommy carrying the baby through the streets wrapped in a blanket appealed to his sense of the humorous.

"Two heeds are better than yan, if yan is a sheep's," rejoined Tommy. " I'll gan back and fetch her myself. I knaw the road. I turn tea the left, then tee the reet, and then gam. round a corner by a pub ; up a narrow street and down a wide yan, and your house is fourth fro yan end of a row, and sixtieth fro the other. I counted 'em."

" Wonderful!'" laughed Mr. Singleton. " But for all that I had better accompany you. We will be back in half an hour," he added to the woman in attendance,. " and in the meantime let no one disturb the child."

Mary did not receive the suggestion of adopting the efiild as enthusiastically as Tommy expected, but when she saw it the mother heart in her responded, and when they returned North they took the babe with them to bring up as their own.

"It's grand tee look at a pit-heap yance again," said Tommy, as they neared home. " My word ! won't the neighbours be Surprised to see us ; and thee with a bairn in thy arms ! "'

Surprised they were and delighted, for Tommy was a great favourite amongst them, especially as since getting hie money he had "put on no side,' but remained the same plain, unpretentious Tommy Barlow as before.

Christmas came, and on. Christmas morning, Tommy sat rocking the cradle and miding the stories in the Leader when he suddenly exclaimed, " Why, I dew declare, if Mr. Singleton ain't bin writing aboot thee and me!

That's the worst o' thim parsons, especially thim thet writes for the peppers ; they can knaw nowt but they, mon tell everybody. But he's wrang when he says thet we myed a grate sacrifice in giving up aar trip tee the Holy Land in order tee adopt a poor little orphan. Thet's his aM imagination, and we divvent want ony credit thet cliv-vent, belong us. And as fur sacrifice, it hasn't bin ony. Has it, lass ? That bairn has brought mair love wi' it than gowd can buy. It's filled an empty spot in aar hyem and given us sumthing tee dee fur the Lord in aar aad age. I was just thinking as I sat there thet if we had gone straight on that journey we should hey bin at Bethlehem this morning, but instead of looking at a cradle wi' no bairn in it, we hey one in aar ain hyem wi' a bonny little 'un sleepin' in it, and I wadna part wi' him, neither wad thou, tee gan twenty times tee the Holy Land."

The child began to stir, and Tommy rocked vigorously with his foot and sang:

"Hark the herald angels sing Glory to the new-born King."

In Children's Bookland.

Messrs. George Philip and Son, London, have for-warded to us the following books : —" Piers Plowman His-tories, Junior Book II. ' (1s.). This contains fifteen stories from Greek, Roman and Old English history, by Mary Sarson and Mary E. Paine. Some of the most memorable events of the old world are told in a way that will delight children of seven years and over. "Junior Book Ur" 'is. 3d.) contains fifteen stories, chiefly from our own English history, told by Margaret R. Beery and Phyllis Wragge. Hereward the Wake is the subject of the first story, and Lord Nelson of the last. Joan of Arc. ' and Christopher Columbus are given a place, and boys and girls will find all the stories fascinating. " The Boy Cavaliers," by Rev. H. C. Adams, M.A. (1s. 6d.), is a. stirring tale of the Civil Wars. The heroes of the tale. are two boys--cousins. They are brave and true, and the story gives splendid pictures of the times of Oliver Cromwell.

Messrs. Duckworth and Co. have just issued several in-teresting books for boys and girls. " The Story Box," edited by S. H. Hamer (3s. 6d.), is a big book full of amusement. There are entertaining chapters on Why the peacock is proud and the bear is cross and the pig is greedy ; why the grasshopper hops and the duck takes to water and the lobster turns red ; why the giraffe has a long neck and the swallows come in summer and the cat dislikes water. Many other funny stories are in this jolly book, and there are plenty of pictures. "Elves and Prin-cesses," by Bernard Darwin (2s.), is a charming book of tales about fairies and other creatures. All the stories, are beautifully illustrated, and children of six to ten

years of age will be delighted with them. So will thay 1 with " The Twins in Ceylon " and " More About the Twins in Ceylon," by B. Sidney Woolf. These two books are bound together, making a big book, which would be a welcome present to any boy or girl up to fourteen years of age. In this double volume there are sixteen coloured illustrations, and sixteen in black and white, and these add greatly to the value of the book. A. J.

Partridge's Annuals.

Each year the firm of S. W. Partridge and Co. issue splendid annuals, which have attained a wide popularity. This year they are better than ever. For children of three to seven years nothing can be better than " The Infants' Magazine," price ls. 6d. It is printed in big type. There are twelve coloured pictures and scores of others, and the book is full of fun and interesting things for little folks. " The Children's Friend " is for boys and girls a few years older. This also has many illustrations, and scores of stories and articles that will interest the readers. One fine serial story, "Head of the School," is easily worth more than the price asked for the whole volume. Tem-perance workers, and parents who want their boys and girls to be interested in all things that make for a sober and happy life, should buy " The Band of Hope AnnuaL" Its price is only a shilling, and it contains twelve beau-tiful coloured pictures, every one of which is worth a frame. "The Family Friend" (price ls. 6d.) is an illus-trated magazine for the home. One serial story by that famous writer Amy Le Feuvre is well worth half-a-crown, and besides this there are scores of helpful stories and talks. " The British Workman " is again wonderful value for money. This is the fifty-ninth volume, and a long

. serial story by that king of writers, Frank T. Bullen, on "The Sailorman's Trials and Triumphs," is enough of itself to make the book a treasure. All these volumes are packed with good things from cover to cover. J. A.

" Edith Barrett : Her Life and Thoughts." (C. H. Kelly. 2s. 6d. net.)

This is a brief record of a sweet, pure, "radiant" life She was undoubtedly a woman of singular charm and remarkable personality. That a life so fragrant and beautiful should end -so prematurely is bewildning. Thu book is composed chiefly of gems of though,, culled from rough "notes" she had made when preparing her Bibb lessons to women, and are very fine indeed. To hearts worn and weary, and sometimes torn and bleeding, the must have been as a pillow of down and an elixir of lib and healing. It is well they are preserved and have fount permanent form. Personal friends will greatly prize thy-souvenir, but it deserves a much wider constituency.—F.

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Uniformly polite and gracious in manner, Mrs. Haddon possessed a strain d cynicism as startling as it was keen. A sense of dry humour was in her blood, not always find-ing expression in words, but seen in the soul-revealing laughter of the eyes. She was a shrewd observer of human nature and so excellent a judge of character that make-believes found small opportunity for their talents. Of life's ironies and incongruities she had the liveliest perception. A despiser of shams, she could scent a joke from afar, and hit off a s,ituation in a phrase. These things are from the intimacies of life, and there are other things too. While slow to make intimate friendships she inspired her family and friends with a supreme, an un-changeable affection. Absolutely devoid of all affectation, she maintained complete, a distinct, and unique per-sonality through all the vicissitudes of her station in life, a station which so greatly tends to the levels of con-venience and conventionality. Personally exercising less than most the demonstrations of affection she was abidingly true and faithful. Her memory will always keep green in our hearts, and the knowledge of having known and loved her adds another joy to the treasures of life,

" When the flame that burned so brightly flickers low, Ye shall turn, and not in vain, to borrow Brighter memories from the bygone 'gainst the morrow,

And its woe." W. H. HALL.

SURREY CHAPEL DEBT REDUCED.

A Record Bazaar.

Every year for twenty years we have had to hold a bazaar to keep the doors open, the usual amount raised being £150 to £160. This year over £400 was taken. This success is -largely due to the fact that the wife of the Debt Fund Treasurer, Mrs. J. Daymond, and Mrs. Freeman, both Wesleyans, also to the noble self sacrifice of our own people. The object was to raise £500, namely, £250, to clear our current account, and £250 towards the debt scheme for paying off £2,850. The bazaar was held on November 19th, 20th, 21st, and 22nd. The openers were : Lady Horsley, the Hon. Mrs. Elliott-Yorke, Mrs. Donald Campbell, and Mrs. Thomas Holloway, the respective chairman being Alderman A. Glegg, J.P., Councillor Wil-son, J.P. (supported by the Town Clerk, Mr. P. H. Gray, LL.B.), Mr. Howard Green, and the Mayor (Mr. J. A. Dews, 'M.A., LL.B., M.P.). Revs. G. Davis (Church of England), H. Kenward, S. Gordon., J. Wellings, S. L. George and F. S. Bullough took part. The soloists were Miss Burridge, Miss Telling, and Miss Olive M. Parr. On Saturday, " The Children's Day " ; thirty- children gave a demonstration, conducted by Mrs,. Croxford, assisted by Miss Skinner. The children handed their purses to the opener, containing in all £12. The stalls realised the following amounts : " Ivy Cottage," Mesdames Parr, Mills, St. Clair, Rosam, Edwards, Clark, Ryan, Claxton and Clements, £53 ; " B.W.T.A." stall, Mesdames Day-mend, Graham and Joyce, £58 ; " The Village School," Sister Bertha, Mesdames Wood, Croxford and Smith, Misses Bowers, Turner, Baker and Wood, and Messrs. Wood and E. T. Parr, £37 ;" Children's Mission Stall," Mesdames Paige and Chilton, Misses Hunter, Armstrong, Bower, Mills and Stickland, and Massrs. Paige, Hancock, Isaac and Alexander, £27 ; "Ye O'cle Stores," Mrs. James Skinner and family and Misses Hunter, Barrett, Adams, Braxby and Lawrence, £55 ; " Sunshine Stall," Mrs. Free-

. man, £50 (besides a donation of £50 to the special debt fund) ; " Needlework Emporium," Mrs. and Miss Moore, £31 ; " Ye Olde Village Tuck Shcppe," Mesdames Barker, Matton, Crawley, Misses Brown, Landor, Goodyear, Rob-bins, East, and Messrs. Barker, Ackroyd and Nye, and including " Mrs. Wiggs' Cabbage Patch" (sweet and toy etall) in charge of Misses 0. M. Parr, I. and M. Mills and K. Bentham, £27. Brotherhood donation, £5 2s. 6d. Other donations, £45. Entertainments a-nd competitions were arranged for by Messrs. Springthoppe, Hibbert, Franklin, Smith, Croft, Keanburv. Mr. A. Robins, the eminent reciter assisted. A welcome addition to the bazaar funds (£7 10s.) was realised by an embroidered cloth worked by Mrs. and Miss Moore, containing 150 names, and which was presented to Mrs. Parr as a token of esteem. The scene at the close, when Mr. J. Skinner announced the results, will never be' forgotten. He and Mrs. Daymond and the Rev. J. T. Parr, the minister, were compelled to respond to the cheers of the com-pany. With Mrs. Freeman's £50 in addition to the £401, and other donations for the debt fund, we shall clear our current account, claim our proportion of grants from Sir W. P. Hartley and the Connexional funds, and pay off £500 ; the second £500 within twelve months. The day following the bazaar, Mr. John Coward, J.P„ of Durham, preached to the great profit of the congregation. On Monday Mr. Coward lectured on "Peter MacKenzie," Mr. J. Mills occupying the chair. Mr. Coward contributed £5 to the bazaar funds.

" The Light of Home." The Sears Publishing Company, St. John's-road, East

Ham, are to be congratulated upon their production of " The Light of Home" for January. Not so well known, perhaps, as some other monthly magazines prepared specially for loealisation, it is by no means inferior to the very best. Churches that have not yet fixed upon the magazine they intend to localise for distribution in connec-tion with their church work could not do better than send to the above address for the January issue of " The Light of Home." The magazine consists of 32 pages ; splendid illustrations abound, there are two artistic coloured plates, while Annie S. Swan, Dr. Jowett, and a host of other writers fill the magazine with choice and winsome articles. The price, too, is very low, 4s. 3d. per 100 copies. Vigorously worked, all attractive localised magazine need cost the church nothing and render very great service.

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Send for a Free Sample. There is no time like the present for a good resolution. Why not here and now? Obey that impulse ! Drop us a post-card—mentioning the " Primitive Methodist Leader "—and we will send you a Sample of Sanato!..n, I ree and postpaid. Or you can buy it at any Chemist's, born 1/9 per tin.

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DECEMBEd 4, 1913 THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. 871

THE LATE MR. J. STRAFFORD. At tha age of sixty-eight, James Strafford, of Leeds, on

Wednesday, November 25th, passed home into the presence of his Lord. By long and faithful service he had earned promotion. He was one of the best-known and most highly esteemed Primitive Methodists in the city and District. His connection with our cause runs back through many years. He has been one of the pillars of Quarry Hill, the mother church. Indeed, since the Hare-hills Chapel was built and the Leeds Ninth Circuit formed he was about the only male stalwart of the older generations left to us. He was a quiet man, took no part In public functions, yet in manifold ways exerted a most potent and useful influence. Appreciative references are made to him by the late Mr. William Beckworth in his book on Leeds Primitive Methodism. He was an accom-plished musician, and until very recently occupied the position of choirmaster. His soul was in the song, and he made the praise of the sanctuary service efficient and inspiring. He loved the house of God. He was most regular and punctual in his attendance. Sunday and week-evening found him in his place. He was never absent except through illness or pressure of business. He was an ardent, sympathetic hearer of the word. With a well-informed, well-trained intellect and a keen spiritual instinct and annetite

' he listened with alertness and

insight to the Gospel message. The preaching that he specially enjoyed most was the preaching that stirred the heart and convinced the mind, that brought the truth right home to the conscience and life.

He was kind, thoughtful, considerate and generous in his gifts. He supported all worthy causes with a liberal hand. His benefactions were frequently bestowed in a silent, secret way. He was a steady, far-seeing soul. He' brought up his family in the ways of piety. We believe that they are all members of the Church. One of his daughters is the wife of Rev. A. Jubb. He lived in the confidence and affection of his brethren, and they lavished upon him such honours as they could bestow. He was circuit steward, held several District treasurerships , and was often returned to District meeting and conference. He had a wide Connexional outlook, and took a warm interest in all its institutions and movements. His busi-ness as a printer brought him into close relations with many of his fellow citizens in the commercial world. He stood well with them. They had faith in his uprightness and integrity. There gathered at his funeral and around his grave on Saturday last a great representative assembly.

An impressive service was conducted in the Quarry Hill Chapel, Revs. R. H. Auty, B. A. Barber, T. H. Chapman, J. Pearson and S. S. Henshaw taking part. Rev. W. M. Kelley delivered a most appropriate and beautiful. address. The hymns " Rock of Ages " and " Peace, Per-fect Peace," were sung, and the Dead March was played by Mr. Britton, the organist. Revs. J. P. Osborne and S. S. Henshaw officiated at the grave. Among those present were a large number of ministers, including Revs. F. W. Morris, W. G. Softly, T. Buttrick, the chief laymen of the city and neighbourhood, the workinen of the -firm, Rev. T. H. Chapman and Mr. J. Town, J.P., from the Free Church Council, Rev. R. H. Auty and Mr. W. E. Clegg from District Committee, and many other repre-sentatives of the churches and religious organisations of the city, and so, amid a large circle of loving friends, we laid his remains in their resting place in the Woodhouse

- Cemetery, with the assurance that his spirit is with God and that we shall meet him again.

THE LATE MRS. B. HADDON.

An Appreciation. On the sloping ground of a piece of broken country

which is undergoing a swift transition of conditions, was the cemetery situated. The day was dull, with a slight nip in the air, and the hour was noontime, and the date was November 21st, when we gathered to perform the last rites of the burial of Margaret, wife of Rev. B. Haddon, at Gateshead. A great concourse of people from all parts of the circuit along with a number of ministers waited at the church in Durham-road—the scene of Mr. Haddon's previous ministry—for the arrival of the funeral cortege from the station, Mr. Haddon with his son and daughter having accompanied the remains from Bristol by the midnight train. A crowd of men and women with serious-faces quickly fell into line to walk the long dis-tanoe to the cemetery. A noticeable feature of the gather-ing was the large number of men all evidently anxious to render a tribute of regard and sympathy. On arrival at the grave, Rev. Hy. Pratt rendered the " oomanittal" in such language of the heart as alone can find expression in the human toraue. The sentences fell with comforting cadence as we thought upon the stroke which had befallen as. We mourned the loss of a friend and the " service," in words of classic phrase and power ineomparable, re-minded us of the state immortal, eternal and invisible, in which all sincere souls find their true life and unbroken affinity. At the close, Mr. Pratt gave a chaste address, which found a ready response in all our hearts. He spoke of Mrs. Haddon's long and severe affliction, an affliction accompanied by a real domestic sorrow. He referred to her patience and courage—a great courage, and also to her uncommon personality. All kindly words and wisely spoken. Then there arose amid the silence the opening words of T-oplady's hymn-

" Rock of ages cleft for me, Let me hide myself in Thee,"

Vidal was sung with tender and sympathetic feeling. The, closing prayer by Rev. S. Palmer was a fitting conclusion to the service.

Reflecting upon the intimacies of years, how rapidly old scenes re-clothe themselves in conditions and circum-stances, and how often have we wondered what. mental ex-periences lay behind those kindly but reflective eyes.

THE CHILDREN'S PAGE. 655 ao 665 000eoeooNelo6p6gEg

GUILD OF KIND HEARTS. 6)otgo655 mown *90 ,00

By Rev. ARTHUR JUBB.

872

THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER, DECEMBER 4, 1913

A snub.—A woman with little wit sat at a public meet-ing between a Jewish rabbi and a bishop. She thought she would be clever, and said to the rabbi: "I feel as if I were a leaf between the Old and New Testaments."

" That page," said the rabbi, " is usually a blank one." The man and the mule.—" Are you going to let that mull

do just as he pleases?" asked the farmer's wife. " Where's your will power?"

" My will power's all right," answered the old negro. " You just want to come out here and measure this mule's won't power."

At the Christmas party.—Hostess, to boy : "Will yo't have some bread and butter, darling?" Small boy : "Bread and butter! I thought this was a party."

Learning to skate.—Big girl, to her friend Lauri!: " You don't mean to say that you have been out skating all the afternoon ? I should think you'll be awfully tired. I suppose there was no place where you could sit down?" Laura : " 0 yes, there were places all over the pond. I think I must have used them all."

People he worked for.—Two men, who hadn't seen each other for several years, met again as neighbours in a nem district. "Hullo, Jim !" said one." Who'd have though) of seeing you! Who are you working for now?" " Same people," was the cheerful response, "a wife and five children."

MY DEAR Boys AND GIRLS,—It is early yet, but I want to be the first to wish you all a very happy Christmas. After this letter is printed, there still remain three weeks before the great day to which you are all looking forward. May you all be well and happy when the day arrives. You will expect to receive some Christmas gifts, and I hope some of you big boys and girls will not forget to make a present to father and mother.

During this year I have received hundreds of letters from readers of the Guild column. Some of the writers were very little people, and some were as big—as ever they will be. They will grow, but it will be better, not bigger. One friend sent on the name of a boy who wanted to join the Guild of Kind Hearts. The little fellow was only six years old, and lived in Yorkshire ; but at the time he joined the Guild he did a very kind thing, and a brave one. With his father and mother he was visiting at a house where they had a very pretty kitten, which one day fell down: a grating into an old dry well. The well was about twenty-five feet deep, and very narrow. The people tried in ever so many ways to get the kitten up, and at last it was decided that somebody would have to be lowered down the well with a rope. So Arnold, our little Guilder of six years, volunteered for the rescue. A strong rope was tied round his waist, and he was lowered into the dark depths. When he reached the bot-tom of the well he grabbed the kitten, and then strong and loving hands drew the bravo little, fellow to the surface, carrying his precious burden. When I read this I felt like saying : " Three cheers for Arnold ! Hip, hip, hurrah! " We will all say : " A merry Christmas to you, Arnold ! "

We hope you will all be kind to birds and animals, and be just as kind to the people around.

To my sisters and my brothers Good and gentle I must be ;

I must always do to others What I would have done to me.

Jesus Christ came down to save us From His shining Home above ;

This was the command He gave us- " 4 5 I loved you, ye shall love."

Then if any shall displease me, ,I will keep these words in mind,

And will ask the Lord to teach me How His children should be kind.

I am sure you are all pleased to see how our Guild grows. Over eight hun-dred have joined this year, and less than a month ago I got a letter from a frieud who wanted a badge for one of the mem-bers who had gone out to Canada, and who wished to keep in the Guild of Kind Hearts. In quite a big number of places there are meetings of boys and girls where the Lssina children's column is read every week.

'Ever so many young people have won a grand new Bible by getting a few people to buy the LEADER weekly, and the ,Editor will be glad if a hundred more Bibles have to be given away. You can easily win a new Bible. Send a cad to the Manager, PRIMITIVE METHO-DIST LEADER, 73, Farringdon Street, Lon-don, E.C., who will send you printed instructions. The Bibles are really splend.M.

Then have you heard about the new book of "Talks to Boys and Girls " ? It is just the book for a Christmas or New Year gift. It has in it over fifty chapters, most of which were published in the Guild column several years ago. It is entitled, " Words on Wheels," and is sold for ono shilling and sixpence. On the cover is a picture of two motor wheels, on which words are printed, and inside there are five pictures, specially drawn for this book. " Words on Wheels " will make a nice companion for "The Red Dwarf," and any of our ministers will be glad to get it for you. If you send stamps or postal order for one shilling and sixpence to me, at address given below, you will receive the book by return post.

In conclusion, as the preachers say, let everybody know that one person wishes you all a really happy Christmas, and that person is your BIG BROTHER.

When writing to me, put the word " Guild " on the left-hand corner of the envelope, and address to Rev, Arthur Jubb, Hawarden House, Prince's_ Avenue, Grimsby. '

A Verse, to Learn and Remember. Sing a little, laugh a little, whistle and be gay,

Work a little, play a little, happy all the way, Read a little, talk a little, don't forget. to pray,

Be a bit of merry sunshine all the blessed day.

Answered I

(A boy whose face was dirty, as boys' faces often are, met a man whose nose was coloured by drinking whisky.. The man said something to the boy, and the boy answered back, and his words gave the whisky-drinker a mild shock. Here is the incident in rhyme.)

"Your face is black, my little lad." "Well, what is that to you, sir ? Your face shows signs of something worse;

In fact, your nose is blue, sir." "My nose is what ? Why, gracious me!

You surely must mistaken be." "I don't tell lies, sir—there's the hue ;

I'll take my oath your nose is blue! "

The Cyclist's Escapade (A Scary without words).

Short Stories.

She hadn't understood.—" Why don't you come to school now, Aggie?" said the Mission teacher to her crippled scholar.

"It's no good me trying to be good, and I ain't coming no more," said the small girl. "The superintendent said the other Sunday that there will be no cripples in heaven."

Puzzled by the neg, o.—A Sunday-school teacher had been explaining (rather unwisely) to her infant class how all people are made of dust, when a small girl put up her hand and asked, "Are negroes made of coal-dust, then? "

For Bargain Hunters

You will have to go a long, long way before you find a better cheap shoe than the patent canvas shoe. They are beautifully warm and comfortable, they will last four or five years,. and the prices are as low as they possibly can be, ranging from 2s. 9d. upwards. Instead of the brown-paper soles common to ordinary cheap shoes, they have soles made of closely woven jute, by an exclusive and patent process. These jute soles, with their comfort and wonderful wearing qualities, will be a revelation, and you should certainly order a pair of the patent canvas shoes so soon as possible,

A Memory System. Forget each kindness that you do

As soon as you have done it; Forget the praise that falls to you

The moment you have won ft ; Forget the slander that you hear

Before you can repeat it; Forget each slight, each spite, each sneer,

Wherever you may meet it. Remember every kindness done

To you—whate'er its measure, Remember those who lend you aid,

And •be a grateful debtor." (From Miss Dunnett's Album—Wat-

ton.)

Chestnuts for Christmas. Where does Christmas come after Box-

ing Day 7—In the dictionary. Why should travellers wear socks that

are " loud" ?—Because they may keep their feet from going to sleep.

When is rain like an earnest student? —When it is poring over a bookstall.

Why are lobsters like many politi-cians1—Because they change colour when they vet into hot water.

Why is the letter D like a wedding ring 7—Because we cannot become we without it

Which dress lasts a lady the longest? —Her house dress, because she never wears it out.

Why is it an insult to a cock-sparrow to mistake him for a partridge?—Be-cause it is making game of him.

What soup would a cannibal prefer 7— A broth of a boy.

Why are policemen seldom run over? —Because they are not often in the way.

What is that which we never borrow, yet often return 7—Thanks.

Which is the coldest river in -Eng-land 7—The ice is (Isis).

What relation is that child to its own father who is not its own father's own son ?—His daughter.

Prizes Prizes!

FIRST ( for boys and girls under eight years of age).—Half-a-crown's worth of books will be given for the best drawing or painting. It can ba done in pencil, ink, or colours. If two or more are equally good, the books will be divided.

SECOND (for those between eight and twelve).—Half--a-crown's worth of books for the best Christmas card, done on a postcard, in pencil, ink, or colours. A text, a motto, or line of a hymn must be added.

THIRD (for those between twelve and sixteen).—Two books (3s. 6d. each) for the best picture in colours. It can be a postcard, or something bigger, as you choose.

CONDITIONS.—Send to Rev. A. Jubb, 10, Prince's Avenue, Grimsby, not later than December 20th. Give your full name, age, and address. The work must be done by the competitors.

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DECEMBER 4, 1913

THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. 879

Services and Preachers.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7th. BERMONDSEY, ST. GEORGE'S HALL, OLD KENT

ROAD, S.E., Mr. John Moseley, at 11 ; 3.30, P.S.A. Fellowship, Speaker—Mr. J. E. Williams ; Rev. A. H. Richardson, at 7.

BLACKPOOL, Chapel Street aeon, the Central Pier), Rev. John Bradbury, at 10.45 and 6.30. Thursday, 7.a0 to 8.35, Devotional Hour. Visitors heartily invited.

BRIDLINGTON, Qaay Church, Rev. W. Turner, at 10.30 and 6.30 ; John Street, Rev. G. Tucker, at 10.30 and 6.30.

CALEDONIAN ROAD, N. (corner of Market Road), Rev. W. hoherts, at 11 and 6.30.

CULLERCOATS, Rev. David Cooke, at 10.45; Rev. S. Ho ton, at 6.30.

HARRINCAY, Mattison Real, Rev. E. J. T. Bagnall, at 11 and 6.30.

HARROGATE, Dragon Parade Church, Rev. W. Younger, at 11 and 6.30.

. HULL FOURTH, City Hall, Services at 10.45 and 6.30. LEEDS NINTH, Meanwood Road, Rev. B. A. Barber,

at 10.30 and 6.30; Harehills Avenue, Rev. P. W. Jam s, at 10 45 and 6.30.

LIVERPOOL FIRST, Prince's Avenue Church, Rev. A. 1'. Gratery, at 10 45 and 6.30. ALts: Meeting for Men at 3, Subject—Purity.

MORECAMBE, Parliament Street, Rev. J. Shapherd, at 10.30 and 6.30.

NEWCASTLE-ON-TYNE, Central Church, Rev. F. W. EC.1.1, at 10.30 and 6.30.

NEWCASTLE-ON-TYNE, Maple Street Church, Mr. W, Robson, at 10.45; Mr. Redhead, at 6.30.

SOUTHPORT, Church Street, Rev. J. T. Bea kby, at l0.::0; 11ev. T. A. Young, at 6.30.

ST. ANNES-ON-THE-SEA, Mr. J. Betts, at 10.45; Mr. W. F. Grewer, at 6.30.

SURREY CHAPEL, Central Mission, Black!riars Read. S.E.. Rev. .1 Dinnick, at 11 i.nd 7; Brother-horst, 3.30, Mr. Hubble.

The President's Engagements. 11 aterh uses, December 6th and 7111; Tow L w, 8th ; Guis.

ho:ou h, 9th ; 1Vhcatley Hill, 10th ; Wingate, 11th ; Het on, 13th : Ushaw Alcor, 14th and 15th.

• Vice-President's Engagements. Manchester, December 5th ; C msett, 6th and 7th ; Brampton,

Cumberland, 12th.

Corinexicnal Evangelists' Engagements. 'MR. J. B. BAYLIFFE, Toronto, Bishop Auckland,

December 6th to 16th. MISS PERRETT, Howden, December 7th to 19th.

Evangelists' Engagements. TOM HOLLAND, Aehington, Northumberland, December

6th to 11th. Ali BERT SHAKESBY, Goldthorpe, December 6th to 10th.

MISS J. WATSON, Evangelist, 15, Boundary Street, • roelidale.—Now booking ion Singing, Speakin",Visiting,

&c , &c. No fee.. Reasonable terms. bend stamped envelope for reply.

MR. J. CAREY, Hetton Downs, till December 11th. MISS BOTT (Sister Ethel), Eastwoad, Kimberley, till

December llth. SISTER ELLEN, New Brumley, Scunthorpe, till Decem-

• er 13th.

LONDON PRIMITIVE METHODIST COUNCIL — Primitive ]Methodists removing to London will be directed to the nearest I. NI. Chitral if some official of the church will notify th2 I:.-c. F. Pickett, Newlands, 6, Kymberley Road, Harrow, Middlesex. The full London address must Le given, which will he at once forwarded to the nearest minister of our Church.

Births, Marriages, Deaths. NOTICES must reach the Office, 73, Farringdon Street, London, B.C., by

Tuesday morning. Temis, prepaid Under 30 words, 2s. ; each additional 10 words or less, 641. Memoirs, reports of marriages, eto., tnuat be accompanied by a prepaid notice.

BIRTHS.

NEALE.—October 26th, at 84, High-street, Lincoln, to Mr. and Mrs. A. E. Neale—a daughter (Marjorie Grace).

VERCOE.—November 26th, at " Bourne Villa," Quarry Bank, Staffs, to the Rev. and Mrs. Charles R. Vercoe (née Norah May Coaker), a daughter.

SILVER WEDDING. HODGES—MARTIN.—On October 28th, 1888, at the Parish

Church, Rhymney, by the Rev. W. Evans, John Hodges united in wedlock to Annie Martin.

DEATHS.

DAY.—On Saturday, November 15th, at Armscott, Strat-ford-on-Avon, Thomas Day, aged ninety. " So now he nee Him face to face, and tells the story, saved by grace."

HOLMES.—At Congleton, November 27th, Charles Hy. Holmes, son of late John Holmes and Mrs. Holmes, of Buxton, aged fifty-six years, after a long illness, borne with great patience and courage.

Marram.—On Friday, November 21st, at Old Whittington, Chesterfield, Hannah Mettam, the wife of Mr. Fred Mettam. For thirty-five years a consistent and stalwart member of our Church.

RITCHIE.—On Sunday, November 23rd, at 12, Lindsay-street, Helton Downs, Thomas Ritchie, aged sixty-six. Over forty years a member and official of the Church. He giveth E.s beloved deep."

IN MEMORIAM. Boococx.—In memory of Maudie, the dearly-loved child of

Rev. N. and Mrs. Bocock, -who passed peacefully away December 2nd, 1912, aged eleven years. God's lily trans-planted.

MAYNARD.—In loving, lasting memory.—James Herbert (" Bertie "), only son of G. P. and Nellie Maynard. Feb-ruary 3rd, 1905—December 7th, 1908. " Jesus called a little child unto Him."

THANKS RETURNED. Sir. C. BARKER, 4, Ruthven-view, Leeds, thanks the many

friends for their kind expression of sympathy in the great loss which has come to him and his children.

Ministerial Changes and Lngagements. (Changes indicate that ministers named are leaving and are

net engaged.) Changes in 1914.

Rev. Thomas WOod from Leicester Seconl.

Changes in 1915. Rev. G. Ellis from Romsey.

PERSONAL.

The Hartley College Students' Missionary Anniversary will be held on March 9th and 10th. -

Mrs. Hilton, son., of Leicester, is seriously ill. A paralytic seizure took place some weeks ago, and she has not since been able to leave her bed. Little, if any, hope of recovery is entertained. Alderman Hilton and his good wife will have the sympathy and prayers of a wide circle of friends.

The passing of Mr. Charles Holmes, of Congleton, removes one who in earlier days rendered distinguished service to our Church in Derby and Crewe for the long period of thirty years. For many years he was a tower of strength at the Central Church, Derby, when that church was engaged in severe financial difficulties ; subsequently romoving to Crewe, he took an active interest in the affairs of the Tunstall District, and acted as Dis- trict Orphanage Treasurer ; while at Heath-street Church he rendered most helpful service as local preacher, school superintendent, and trust secretary. Of late years he has resided at Congleton and although not there identified with our Church, ha has ever cherished an abiding interest in the Church's welfare. Two years ago he had a serious operation, since which life has been a continuous fight with disease. It was known from the first that recovery was impossible. He, however, faced the future cheer- fully, and passed away on November 27th, full of faith and hope, at the age of fifty-six years. He was a son of the late Mr. John Holmes, still remembered in Peter-borough and Buxton, and brother of Mr. A. E. Holmes, of Manchester, and Mr. F. A. Holmes, of Buxton.

Rev. A. T. Guttery has under consideration an urgent invitation to conduct a Young People's Campaign in the United States and Canada. It would be a hustle, for most of the State capitals would be visited in the Tour weeks Mr. Guttery could give. Arrangements would be made by the American Sunday-school Union.

Mr. Stanley Hancox, B.A., son of Rev. E. Hancox, after a brilliant career at Oxford, has received a good appoint-ment in Ceylon, in the Civil Service, and leaves England on December-13th.

The quarterly .meeting of the South London Local Preachers' Asabciation will be held at Surrey Chapel on Saturday, December 13th. In the afternoon at 4.30 a lovefeast will be held. At 5.30 there will be a tea, fol-lowed by a public meeting at 6.30. The topic for the evening meeting will be " Open-air Evangelism." All South London local preachers should make a point of being present.

Messrs. Morgan and Scott have issued a series of Christ-mas cards, motto cards and calendars which for artistic effect will be difficult to surpass. They all bear some Scriptural or religious motto, and thus serve a most useful purpose.

The death of Mrs. Adams, widow of the late Mr. Henry Adams, of Sheffield, took place at West View, Sharrow, last week. The funeral was on Saturday, 29th ult., the service at the house and at the General Cemetery being conducted by Rev. Henry Fox. Mrs. Adams was a highly cultured Christian lady, and in many respects a remark-able, woman. Until her marriage with Mr. Adams she was associated with the Congregational Church in Chester-field, and sixty years ago began her Christian work as a Sunday-school teacher, which was continued for many years, and for twenty years she held the position of super-intendent. She was a missionary enthusiast, and her acquaintance with the missionary work of the churches made her an effective speaker at the meetings of the Women's Missionary Federation. She had reached the ripe age of nearly eighty-one years.

We regret to learn that Rev. W. Scott Bosenoe, of Cardiff, has been taken ill, and will probably be laid aside for a few weeks. Mrs. Bosence also was seized with illness at the same time, and both are therefore unfortu-nately not able to get about.

The Mayor and Corporation of Ossett attended Queen-street Church on November 30th. A large congregation consisting of civic officials and the public joined the Mayor on the occasion of his visit to his own church. Rev. E. Lacey delivered a powerful sermon.

The National Executive of tip Brotherhood movement met in Hull this week-end. Bourne Church, Hull Fifth Circuit, enjoyed the service of Mr. H. Jeffs (ex-President), and an additional help was the presence of the National Brotherhood secretary, Mr. W. Ward, who gave a very interesting address to the juniors, and also spoke of his close connection, through his wife, with our founders, Clowes and Bourne.

Stratton St. Margaret Sunday-schoolz Swindon, has a distinguished record in connection with the Scholars' Scripture Examinations. Many prizes have been wool. During the past five years, of 105 scholars who have sat 103 have received first-class certificates. Twenty prizes have been gained, including the second Connexional prize in 1909, seven District prizes and twelve circuit prizes. The District Challenge Banner was won in 1911 and 1912. Much of the success is due to Miss L. Hill, who has diligently trained the scholars.

Mr. T: R. Watkinson, J.P. of Grimsby, is making a name as a special preacher. During, the year he has had eighty engagements. Last Sunday at Curzon-street, Leicester, and on Thursday he was at St. George's-road, Hull, where his sermon and speech were greatly appreci-ated.

Councillor J. Stockdale, steward of Morley Circuit, has again been elected chairman, for the seventh year, of Morley Education Committee.

Amongst the most healthy agencies in the Cleveland-road Church, Sunderland, is the Women's Guild. The meetings are held weekly and are well attended. Several ladies from other denominations usually attend. The vice-president, Mrs. J. E. Pattinson, a daughter lot Rev. R. Clemitson, is a most vigorous worker, and for over two years has never failed to have a good soloist present. She is also at present secretary of the Sunderland and Seaham Women's Missionary Auxiliary. The Guild is affiliated with the Sisterhood movement, and its secretary, Mrs. A. E. Minicar'. is also secretary of the Local Sister-hood Federation. A small hall is being built for the greater comfort and convenience of the Guild.

Mr. B. Wise, who for some time has been unable, on account of ill-health, to take an active part in the work of the Young Men's Institute at London-street, Reading, has presented a handsome coloured copy of Holman Hunt's famous picture, " The Light of the World," to be hung in the young men's room.

Mr. J. S. Gibson, an official of Northumberland-street Church, Huddersfield, has just been returned to the Town Council at the head of the poll.

Mr. J. Hague, secretary of Bourne-street School, Hollinwood, and an active worker in the church, has been elected a Councillor for the Hollinwood Ward of Oldham.

Mr. IV. D. Dodsworth, of Hull, has been elected vice-president of the Yorkshire Endeavour Federation, and will succeed to the presidency next year.

Rev. G. Ellis has been elected as president of the Rom-sey and District Sunday-school Union.

HINTS ON EYESIGHT.

Why is the Grass Green? - —

Light is caused by vibrations in the ether in which we live. These vibrations travel in the form of waves. l'ne waves vary in length, and the different lengths are the colours which combined together form white light. They are red, orange, yellow, green, blue, violet. These different wave lengths may be called different speeds, and as they travel outwards they strike everything with which they come in contact. Some are absorbed and some are reflected back again, and the object is then said to be illuminated. I may say then that the grass is green because only those vibrations or wave lengths which a a recognise as that colour are reflected back to our eye from it all the others are practically absorbed. The knowledge of these various effects is necessary to the treatment of defective vision. There is no reason why anyone should suffer from defective eyesight when they can have their eyes tested free of charge by Mr. Aitchison, the well-known optician, at 428, Strand, London, W.C. If necessary he will supply eyeglasses or spectacles at moderate charges.

874

THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER; DECEMBER 4, 1913

CHAPTER XV. Priscilla Angers the King,

My joy at the avowal of Priscilla's love lost none of its relish, even whet I remembered the King's commission. I was still determined to fulfil the duty entrusted to me. I would most certainly bring Priscilla to Whitehall Palace. So would I defeat the malice and craft of Buckingham and Brune, regain the confidence of His Majesty, and repossess my ancestral estates.

With this unflinching resolve I told the whole story to Priscilla, deeming it no violation of my vow to confide in my promised wife. My strong resolution was nobly seconded by Priscilla, and a glad confidence of success possessed us both.

" The King unwittingly has done us much service," said idle, as she smiled at the consciousness of the fond relation between herself and the Red Ambassador.

" Then you will come with me, sweetheart, and thank His Majesty in person," I said brightly.

A momentary hesitation and fear for my safety becloaded her face.

" What of the risk ? Will not His Majesty imprison, and then hang you ? " she said with a shiver.

" The risk is great, but I run great risks each day. Nevertheless, I am confident of triumph with you by my side," and my self-assurance awoke buoyant confidence in

riscilla. "Yes, John, you shall introduce Mistress Priscilla

Luke to King Charles," said she, her face radiant with kappiness and hope.

But the time was not yet opportune. The Anchor coffee house was still my abode. My daily visits in the dusk of eventide to Bartholomew Close phattly relieved the tiresome monotony of my strict seclusion. My Puritan dielguise weighed at times so heavily on my spirit and exposed me to so many insults and dangers that I resolved to discard it. Often had roysterous Cavaliers, after naming me a sour-faced cur, threatened to slit my nose with their wildly-brandished weapons. The hatred to the Puritans grew more violent and open. The train-bands, the merchants, and even the ragged prowling street lads boisterously echoed the persecuting spirit of the new Cavalier Parliament. So once again I adopted the rich fashions of a Cavalier gentleman, and wore a dress more consonant with my cheerful spirit. A suit of sky-blue satin with scarlet knots at the knees, a bow of red ribbon in my curved broad-brimmed hat ; across my shoulder a richly braided sash of crimson, from which hung my new rapier, and over all a new thick, brown cloak, which could be muffled about my face to prevent recognition. Thus attired, I now walked abroad, keeping a keen eye-watch for Buckingham's bullies.

With a truth, I believe that Priscilla loved me none the less in this showy attire, for it was her delight to tantalise me when I approached by prettily pretending a fear she did not feel by lightly tripping into a dark corner of the room and exclaiming in mock terror of voice :

" Oh, 'tie a wicked Cavalier ! Hide me ! Save me ! " " Yes," I would happily answer, "'tis a Cavalier whom love makes welcome."

That this was true was evident, for when she left the dark corner she was wont to hide for a time in the same Cavalier's embrace.

Now it was springtime. Men talked only of the Corona-tion of the King. The spirit of revelry grew apace. Religion became a less vital force in the national life, and the moral tone of the people sank lower and lower.

I thought it was now a suitable time to visit White-hail. Sir Samuel Luke and Timothy endeavoured. to dissuade Priscilla from attending the Court, but they knew not our secret nor did we intend them to know. Master Tim volunteered to accompany us, like the brave-hearted Roundhead he is, but wa resolved to go un-accompanied.

I had been much concerned for my chestnut mare, and one eve stole away to the wayside inn where I had left her. Great was my joy to find her there, and equally glad was she to see and hear me, for she neighed and capered with the utmost pleasure.

It was a glorious spring day. Priscilla, in her bewitch-iag blue-serge habit braided with gold, and wearing her curved hat with its aigrette of white pluznes, rode on horseback at my side. Nature smiled charmingly on our journey. The apple trees were bouquets of fragile bloom with here and there a tint of green foliage ; the golden chains of the laburnum, like a sun-burnished cascade of gold, fell over soft green boughs ; the grey-blue wistaria mingled in lovely rivalry with the blue passion flower to hide the ravages of time on black timber and crumbling stone ; the cones of dainty flowerets on the chestnut trees made them towers of beauty, and the love songs of the birds transformed them into palaces of manic.

On our way we met many well-known Cavaliers and their ladies displaying their magnificent spring-time 'dresses.

But more charming than any face we met, and more winsome than the freely-admired beauty of spring-time nature, was the loveliness of my sweetheart. Her finely-wrought features which had never been touched by the arts of artificial beauty-makers, and her natural grace of carriage on horseback, awoke the envy of the staring ladies of the Cavaliers. Despite the ordeal that awaited us she betrayed no symptom of dear in the rich colouring of her cheeks and the unflinching gaze of her grey-blue ayes.

• •

Now it so happened that as we drew near to White-hall I cast a sideward glance beyond Priscilla, and whom should I see but my ancient foe the Spaniard, with a smile on his sallow visage. I surmised that where the Spaniard was there the Bulldog must be, for they were like twin stars. And so it proved, and I saw his short, rotund body elbowing its way abreast of his fellow cut throat. He, too, wore a smile of satisfaction. At the gate of Whitehall Palace the twins were joined by snore hired bullies, and they, divining our purpose, lined acress the open gateway to block our progress. Their swords were drawn, and flashed ominously in the spring sun-shine.

Still we continued to approach. I glanced inquiringly at Priscilla and drew my rapier. Her eyes wavered not, but I saw that her cheeks were now as pale at water lilies. She, however, smiled with confidence, and said firmly in an undertone :—

" Forward ! " At once a new energy circulated madly through my

veins, and I was ready to face a thousand bullies for Priscilla's sake.

We were nearly upon them, and the ruffians prepared to seize the horses' bridles. Then Priscilla did a clever thing. Pointing over their heads she exclaimed :-

" See! The King comes ! " And as the bravadoes turned to look she said again : — " Forward ! " At that both our horses dashed through the thin line

sending our foes sprawling in all directions. We were now in the palace precincts, but ere the mercenary rogues could rush after us the Life Guards, having heard the tumult, came forward to oppose them.

Now, I had thought Priscilla's ejaculation only a ruse to throw our enemies off their guard, but evidently her sharp eyes had seen His Majesty where mine failed me. •Charles had witnessed the whole episode, and Came forth to inquire the cause of the disturbance.

"Sire, Scarlet Whydale has fulfilled your Majesty's commission, and, at last, has brought Mistress Priscilla Luke to Whitehall Palace," I said, greeting him with much deference. Never could man be more astounded than was King Charles.

"Ods fish, Whydale, know you not that attainder of treason lies against you, and that others enjoy your com-mission and estates," he exclaimed.

"How is that, your Majesty? Usually you reward not faithful ambassadors in this sorrowful way," said I.

The King, still bewildered, looked at me, and then his eyes lingered on- Priscilla.

"Ods fish, she is more beautiful that the artist painted her," broke spontaneously from his lips.

Priscilla smiled at the susceptible King. With her soul shining in her grey-blue eyes, her beauty made a mute appeal. Then she said :

" Your Majesty will allow me in your presence to thank Master Whydale for this introduction to the Sovereign of these realms."

"Gracious lady, the Sovereign also shall thank him for such vision as Whitehall Palace never yet saw," said he hastily.

Priscilla blushed under this wily.panegyric of the King, but with a truly artistic pose of head and much subtlety of mind she said :

" Your Majesty will at once remove the attainder of treason. and restore the confiscated estates. Master Why-dale also valued his commission in your Majesty's Guards. I beseech you return him the honour."

Her sweetly voiced pleading and her magnetic charm of personality won a favourable answer.

Certainly. We regret the injustice done him." Even this did not satisfy Priscilla, so she asked : " On parchment, sire ?" " Yes, on silk if you desire it," he replied readily. A secretary came at the King's bidding and wrote down

the King's wilL His Majesty took the pen to sign it, when a fresh commotion arose at the gates, and on foam-ing horses the Earl of Buckingham and my Lord Bruce galloped towards us, and -behind them a horde of armed attendants.

"Seize the traitor! " they exclaimed excitedly. But Priscilla and I calmly faced the King, whose face

betrayed much anger. " Ode fish I Is this how courtiers enter the Royal

presence? Is my Lord Buckingham Sovereign of these realms? Bid these bullies return to the street, lest they defile the air we breathe. Now, my Lord Buckingham, what means this armed invasion of our Palace precincts 7"

Buckingham, with mixed sullenness and effrontery, replied

" Your Majesty knows." "We know much, but in this case it seems not all the

truth," declared His Majesty. Buckingham, in a temper, sheathed his sword and

ungraciously replied " Your Majesty prefers to believe a traitor rather than

a loyal servant. With your permission I will retire." It was now that Lord Bruce, who, holding outstretched

a soiled slip of parchment tied with a faded scarlet ribbon, interjected

" This document, your Majesty, attests that Scarlet Whydale is a traitor." Both Priscilla and I recognised the billet that she had sent to me through Huckle. She looked wonderingly into my face as though asking how my Lord Bruce possessed this private note. But I fixed my eyes on the King, who read the billet aloud and with clouded countenance. The name Ironside was as offensive

to him as that of Cromwell, and well might both names irritate him, since conjointly Cromwell and his uncon-quered Ironsides had banished him so long from his kingly heritage.

" Will your Majesty read the whole of that "billet? I wrote it, sire," Priscilla said.

" That is all," he replied, and held the paper so that we could see. By some art of man the reference to my espionage had been erased.

Then Priscilla, in melodious voice and with convincing calmness of demeanour, told of my encounter with Lord Bruce and the old Ironside. The face of his Lordship revealed his chagrin. This effort to damage my reputa-tion recoiled unmercifully upon himself. Still, he abandoned not his aim to instil disbelief in the King's mind.

" Will your Majesty ask the Red Ambassador to produce the parchments which he failed to deliver?" he asked.

" Your Majesty," I quickly followed, " will find them where that billet came from. They were stolen from me by the hired bullies of the Earl of Buckingham, at whose instigation I was imprisoned for a night in the town jail on Bedford Bridge."

Charles now scented a new interest, and at once ordered me to tell my strange adventures. While he listened to me his eyes wandered often to Priscilla's face, whi seemed inclined by all the arts of woman to captivate his affes• tion. Still I trusted her absolutely, though I knew n..t what plan fashioned itself in her nimble mind, and though the King's manifest admiration began to jar on . . my spirit.

Buckingham and Bruce, uneasy lest they should lose the King's favour, persistently asserted that I was a traitor, and, indeed, a friend of the Fifth Monarchy fanatics. I had been seen in Puritan garb haunting the resorts of these rebels, they declared. Now this gave me the opportunity I had awaited, and I drew forth the parcn-ment signed by Captain Berringer.

" Instead of being a friend of the fanatics, your Majesty will perceive from this document that I am their foe," I said, as I triumphantly handed him the proof of .my loyalty.

" A.' 7 Those are not your initials, John Why- dale," said he, glancing at me severely.

" They are the initials of the name His Majesty deigned to confer on me, the Red Ambassador," said I, making a profound obeisance.

The King simply laughed, and, again taking his quill pen, signed the document that freed me from the attainder of treason and restored my estates.

"Mistress Priscilla Luke, who is the beautiful pledge of our Red Ambassador's faithfulness, shall present this gift to Scarlet Whydale," said the King, beaming indul-gently on my attractive sweetheart.

" We thank your Majesty, and now would i with-draw," said she winningly, and accepting the document.

"Truly ; but the sun must not hide for eve: lishild unpropitious clouds," said the King gallantly.

"No, sir ; it shall shine in the home of the Red Ambassador." And on saying that she gave me so char fl-ing a glance of affection that none in our audience was so dull-witted as to miss its significance.

We turned to leave. His Majesty muttered an oath and grew angry in feature, while Buckingham and Bruce ostentatiously rejoiced over the King's discomfiture.

Priscilla and I, however, rode away with light hearts. (To be continued.)

New Lesson Notes for 1914. The " Methodist Sunday-school Lesson. Notes" for 1914

have been eagerly awaited, and can now be obtained complete in one volume at 25. 6d. net. Month by month these same notes will appear in the " Sunday-school Magazine," the new monthly to be published jointly at Holborn Hall and at the Wesleyan Sunday-school Depot. Here, however, we have the privilege of viewing what our Sunday-school teachers will have supplied to them' for their work throughout the year. By one great step for-ward Mr. Williams Butcher and Mr. Dodd Jackson, the joint editors, have provided for our teachers a series of unsurpassed Lesson Helps. The Sunday-school teaches., whatever may be the grade of the class, will find here the material required and desired. The notes on the Morning Lessons are supplied by Rev. C. F. Hunter, B.A. • those on the International Course are by Rev. C. Arnold Ealing, M.A., and are excellently done. Then we come to the Graded Lessons, for which our teachers have been waiting. Here we have them—the Standard Graded Courses. The Beginners' Course is by Miss Barker, so well known in our Church for her Pgimary demonstrations ; her outline talks are just adapted to the little folk, and will be among the most popular and effective in the book. Miss Pelton follows with the Primary Course, which again is followed by the Junior Course, then the Intermediate Course, the whole leading up to the Senior Course. This last, the Senior Course

' has been entrusted to Professor

Humphries, of Hartley College, and is a piece of splendid work. The exposition, the notes, the insight and lucidity will make this Course most acceptable and valuable. This volume should have a great sale. It will meet the modern teacher's need as no other book has done.

" Quiet Talks on Following the Christ." By S. D. Gordon, D.D. (Revell. 2s. 641. net.)

Following the lengthy series of "Quiet Talks" by Dr. Gordon comes this on "Following the Christ." While all the volumes are excellent, this one is among the best of the series. The whole book takes a high line of thought, expressed with marked lucidity of language, and is charged with intensity of conviction. It is so easy to read Dr. Gordon ; you can read him when the body is jaded, not because the subject is simple, but rather in conse-quence of the attractive form in which truly great themes are forcefully set out. Coming from such an author it is a devotional book, devotional but not inducing sleep, but arousing to exertion.. Its calls to the life to follow the

best, to live the best, are full of the loftiest stimulus.

THE RED AMBASSADOR being certain papers found and edited by

WILLIAM G. LEADBETTER, Author of "At the Sign of the Shoe," " Like unto Leaven," &c., &c,

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DECEMBER 4, 1913 P--

THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. 975

THE SIN OF ACHAN.

International Lesson for Sunday, Dec. 14, 19131 (For Reading) Joshua vii. (For Teaching) Joshua

vi.. 6-15. G.T., Num. xxxii. 23.

By Henry J. Pickett.

CONNECTING LINES.—As we indicated last week, this story of interrupted victory is a true mirror of our life-travel, stained, alas ! by many a mortifying failure. And, as in this case, so in ours ; if we will faithfully trace it, we may come upon the cause of defeat. For the intention of God is from progress to progress, an uninterrupted march of triumph. How it is possible to thwart that intention is part of to-day's study. Ai, near to Bethel, the site of Abram's_altar when he entered the land (Gen. xiii. 4-10) was among the highlands of Palestine, three thousand feet above Jericho, and some fifteen to twenty miles distant. It was the next con-siderable centre toe attack, and would give Joshua a. central position in the land, at the same time giving him command of the pass leading to the fertile Jordan valley. This evidently determined the soldier's plan of campaign. I.—Our regular studies for the year end upon a solemn

Yet it is necessary for us listen to it, because its solemn music is intended to prepare us for the angels' song, and the fuller advent of that Christ into our hearts whose mission it is to " put away sin." Last week we were noting with gladness the improvement in Israel under the new Leader, and in the new land their obedience, their devotion, their zeal. Yet among the company one at least had the evil eye, the unworthy desire, the disobedient heart. And it ought to bring a quiet awe into our hearts as we mark how the wrong of one brought humiliation upon a nation on its trial, suffer-ing upon many innocent, and made the enemies of God to scoff. No one sins to- himself. He involves untold numbers in the consequences. We approach the lesson with chastened feelings. Let no one boast. Let us rather hear the Master say. " What I say unto you, I say unto all, watch ! "

IL—Let the teacher go back to vers. 18, 19 in chap. vi. in order to point out the seriousness of Achan's sin. Then the teacher may proceed to point out

The Power of Temptation as illustrated in the secret fall of Achan. Note its (a) subtlety : —Doing its work in the thought and heart, while outwardly Achan was rejoicing with the rest in the over-throw of God's enemies, and in the wonder of God's deliverance. We need to be on our guard against the craft of evil. It came into the world by suggesting, doubt, the possibility of having misinterpreted the thought and speech of God that goodness can never be inconsistent with enjoyment! Closely allied to this, especially if harboured, is its (b) boldness : —Actually possessing one of God's warriors with evil longing, and laying siege to and capturing one of God's redeemed ones. No position nor place is proof against the entrance of evil if once it is encouraged. It will suggest its plan of campaign in the class during prayer or lesson ; it will map out its road of triumph (and it is always going to succeed) in church ; it will sell the Master under the shadow of the most sacred Gethsemanes. (c) Persistence is a feature of temptation where it is not instantly dismissed. Once we descend to argument we are defeated. It will _only heed God's

m imperative, " Get thee behind me " ; it must be taken cut and slain. Had Judas so fought temptation in its beginnings he would have shone as a great apostle. Had Achan so dismissed the love of finery and gold he would

_ have saved himself and his house. III.—So in the harbouring of temptation, all unknown

to Joshua, we come upon

The Secret of Failure alike for Achan and for Israel. Here again we must remember the initial stages of Israel's conquest, and how ,necessary for the larger and permanent good to make example of unfaithfulness from within, as, in the case of Jericho, of idolatry without. (a) Joshua's example of prayer on account of failure is at once pathetic and com-mendable. Pathetic, because while astonished, he is ignorant. Commendable, because whatever the immediate cause we may be quite sure the ultimate and real cause is that happy relationship with God has been disturbed. .Ai was as nothing to Jericho (see vers. 3, 4). Yet Ai is overwhelmingly too much if God is not with them. And that is part of the secret of failure. God and sin cannot live together. If we will have the tatter, then we have it at the expense of God's society. (b) Joshua's insight gained through communion enables him to understand the cause of failure. It is not that God has changed. An unworthy presence has been welcomed. Disobedience has been enthroned, and, for the present, has triumphed. Wherever this is the case, defeat must follow. In ignorance, Joshua, by implication, blamed God. His ignorance was corrected by communion.

IV.—Now we come (vers. 13-15) to

The Certainty of Detection. In explaining the sifting process gradually narrowing and drawing in each individual, the teacher will show how impossible it is to escape the winnowing of God. Achan foolishly cherished the hope of escape to the last, for, instead of open confession, he cruelly allowed all the honest of his people to lie under suspicion, being sub-jected to the shame of search, until his guilt could be no longer hidden. Read Eccles xii. 14 and Psalm xc. 8. What folly to forget God before and in the act of doing any wrong, and then hope nothing will be heard of it ! If we practice Achan's wrong we cannot escape Achan's fate, different in detail, of course, but alike in result. For

- sin must be discovered, taken-out and destroyed ! It is the only mercy to the rest of the world. If God were to sanction it 1$y silence He would cease to be God!

THE CITIZENS OF THE KINGDOM. XII,—Their Ultimate Security.

Endeavour Topic for Week beginning Dec. 71 Matt. vii. 24-27 ; Luke vi. 46-49.

In this epilogue to His Sermon on the Mount the Master Teacher brings home to His hearers the supreme importance of practising " these sayings of Mine." These " sayings" include the whole teaching of Him who gave to the world the one authoritative interpretation of the will of God concerning man and his destiny. "He that heareth" only is like one who builds a house thought-lessly and without a stable foundation. But "he that death" is like a foreseeing builder who digs down to the rock and erects his house firmly on it.

The point of this twin-picture is that final security can only be obtained by building on a solid foundation. One man realised that security as the fruit of his painstaking sanity and common sense. He took the trouble to die through the loose and treacherous sand to the solid rock, and consequently the wildest fury of the elements was impotent to wreck his house. To base our character on His teachings, Jesus declares, is to build upon a rock. The more perfectly we practise His sayings, the more strong and symmetrical the structure of cur character will be. The other man in the picture failed of ultimate security because he was careless as to vital matters. His listlessness, lack of forethought and complete indifference to important considerations involved the ruin of his house. Now it would be difficult to find a truer figure of life and character than this, that it is a building upon which every one of us is engaged. It implies individual respon-sibility. We ought to have a plan. There must be nothing fortuitous and purposeless in building the struc-ture of his life and destiny. A character thrown together promiscuously without purpose or ideal is like a house which some brainless adventurer runs up anyhow and any-where, without design, without concern as to foundation, walls or roof, and without symmetry or proportion, the jest of every observer and the sport of every storm. Let our Endeavourers be quite sure that we all are erecting structures by every deed we perform and by every motive we cherish.

Nothing is more certain than that character will be tested. Just as surely as these houses were assailed by storms, so surely will our moral structures be subjected to trial. There will be storms—more or less severe and frequent—of temptation, doubt, trouble and difficulty, and a final testing when• "every man's work shall be tried by fire." The wise builder of bridge or pier anticipates storms and builds for the fiercest. And that we must do, too, for our ultimate security is in our own hands. If we be foolish and listlessly neglect the laws of spiritual architecture we shall achieve the tragedy of a wrecked destiny, like Byron, who built so badly that at thirty-six, as his house tumbled into ruins, he wrote :—

" My life is in the yellow leaf ; The flowers and fruits of life are gone ;

The worm, the canker and the grief Are mine alone."

On the other hand, if we be wise in ordering our lives and shaping-our characters, we shall be among those about whom the worst storms will rage in vain. We shall be able with Paul to exclaim triumphantly, "None of these things move me!" Airrerun Wienns.

Livingstone Hall Appeal. Sia,—In the midst of the many appeals made at this

time of the year, we trust that Livingstone Hall will not be overlooked. Will our friends kindly help us by gifts or donations towards our ministry among the sick, the destitute and friendless 7 We are greatly in need of funds for clothing the destitute, feeding hungry bairns, and relieving the sick and poor. Heavy demands are upon us, and we cannot say nay. The work is steadily growing, and the splendid work of Sister Maud is marked by much self-sacrifice and devotion. We are grateful to the friends in England who help us year by year, and we hope the number will be increased. Your gifts and donations will be gratefully and promptly acknowledged by yours, etc.,

ERNEST S. ENMITY, Superintendent. Livingstone Hall, South Clerk Street, Edinburgh.

An Excellent Receipe. Now that the festive season is at hand, for the benefit

of our lady readers we give an excellent recipe for these popular .concoctions. Take lb. of flour, two heaped-up teaspoonfuls of Borwiek's baking powder, 2 ozs. of bread-crumbs, 1 lb. of suet, 2 lbs. of raisins, 1 lb. of currants, 10 ozs. of sugar, 2 ozs. of almonds, 1 lb. of candied peel, salt and spice to taste. Mix the ingredients well together, and add six eggs, tvell beaten, and three-quarters of a pint of milk. Divide in two, and boil eight hours. The choice of a recipe is of great importance, also a careful selection of ingredients, amongst these being a really reliable baking powder, and Borwick's is about the best you can use. It has a reputation of over seventy years, and has withstood the test of time longer than arty other on the market, a sure proof of its efficacy. It is in-dispensable to housewives who want light, delicious cakes and flaky pastry, another point being that it brings out the nutritive qualities of the ingredients with which it is mixed and renders same easily digestible.

IN MEMORIAM.

Mr. R. V. Saunderson. A severe loss has been sustained on the Lincoln Second

Circuit by the death of Mr. Robert V. Saunderson, which occurred on November 21st. He had been associated with the local Society almost from boyhood, and in turn had filled almost every office in the church. He was trust treasurer and society steward at Rasen-lane, and at an earlier date a superintendent of the school. Until recently he filled the post of circuit steward. In all his work he was diligent and faithful. Freedom from business responsibility gave him an opportunity enjoyed by few for the service of the church, and he seemed always to be " going about doing good." His was a familiar figure on Lincoln streets, and his sincere piety and native courtesy won the esteem of all classes. The intermept took place on November 25th at the Newport Cemeiry, after a service in the Rasen-lane Church. The congregation, which filled the church, included representatives of all sections of the community. Rev. T. Graham, who con-ducted, gave an appreciative address. Deep smpathy felt for the widow.

Mr. Thomas Ritchie. The Downs Society, Hetton Circuit, has suffered S

great loss by the death of Mr. Thomas Ritchie, which occurred on November 23rd, in the sixty-seventh year of his age. He was a member of the Downs Society for over forty years, and had held many offices in the church. By his quiet, genial, unassuming manner he had endeared himself to all who knew him. He was most regular in his attendance at the means of grace, and diligent in his attention to the duties of his offices. The end came quite unexpectedly. Though he had been unwell for a few weeks, it was thought that he was recovering, and might look forward to some years of service. But it was not to be. The funeral on November 26th was attended by a great crowd of friends, who came to pay their last respect to a brother beloved. The Durham County Enginemethi Association, of which he was one of the three trustees for, the county, sent representatives, one of whom, Mr. W. B. Charlton, spoke in high terms of his character, and of the esteem in which he was held by the society. He was one of a band of stalwarts who knew the Downs Society in its early days. He came to the end with the quiet con-fidence which had characterised all his life, and death for him was the gateway into a fuller life. The funeral ser-vice, conducted by Rev. W. Barton, assisted by Rev. J. F. Loveday, was most impressive.

Mr. John Spencer Brown. In the translation of Mr. John Spencer Brown, at Wei

ago of seventy-six, from the residence of his son, Mr. Samuel Brown, of Northfields, our esteemed circuit steward, the Claremont-street Church, Leicester, has lost one of its most devoted supporters. For over twenty years he has discharged with wonderful grace and fidelity the duties of society steward. His genial disposition, his humble and unaffected sincerity, his quiet dignity and kindly courtesy will remain with many, as a sweet and precious memory. Alderman S. Hilton, writing to his son, says : " Your father has been a fine example in stead-fastness of purpose, gentleness of spirit, and fidelity to the Church. I have many times said he was one of the most friendly and peaceable men I have had to do with:" His passing away was swift but beautiful. Worshipping God one Sunday morning in the courts of his earthly house, and just before the dawn of the next Sabbath] worshipping .iim in the home not made with hands. The funeral took place on November 27th. The service in Claremont-street Church, prior to the interment in Bel-grave Cemetery, was largely attended, and was conducted by Rev. W. Hughes. Rev. J. Whittle paid a high tribute to Mr. Brown's character and worth. The service at thst cemetery was conducted by Rev. J. Whittle.

Silver Wedding Presentation.

Redearth-road Schools, Darwen, were crowded on Satur• day last for the celebration of their minister's silver wedding. Over 400 sat down to a sumptuous tea, anci remained to the evening's entertainment, which consisted of songs, glees and sketches arranged by the choirmasters of the three churches. His Worship the Mayor (Alder man James Cocker, J.P.) presided. An interesting item of the programme was the presentation of a solid silver tea service and a massive silver-mounted oak tray to ,4 re. Hodges, and a gold-mounted Swan fountain pen a purse containing 25 guineas to Rev. J. Hodges. In making the presentation the Mayor said that no one had been asked to subscribe. The people spontaneously, brought their money because of the good work done by their minister and the influence he had exerted in the churches. In replying on behalf of Mrs. Hodges and himself, Mr. Hodges said he felt grateful at such an out-burst of generosity, particularly as he had only been in Darwen seventeen months. The good he had done had been made possible by the magnificent loyalty tretyofaszthree circuit steward, officials and members. He would

the memory of their love and kindness to the end of Meg life.

876

THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. DECEMBER 4, 1913

Church News. Bedford.

The Park-road Church was crowded on Thursday last on the occasion of the Tem-perance Society's effort to reveal the social view of intemperance and to indicate the way of reform. Two sketches, entitled " A Women's Parliament," by the girls, and " The Trial of Alcohol " by boys, consti-tuted the major efforts ; the method of past and present legislators being brought under review in the former, whilst the latter revealed in the clearest manner the social and industrial mischief of intemper-ance. The proceeds were for the temper-ance funds. Miss Goodman presided, Miss H. Dickens accompanied, and Mr. W. H. Hackett conducted.

Bradfield.

Quarterly Meeting held at Theale proved of inspiration to all. The financial state-ment gave great satisfaction. Missions have been held at Bradfield and Yattendon. Quicks Green Chapel has been renovated and two-thirds of the cost secured. Theale Chapel has been made to answer modern needs, and the contractor's price raised within a few weeks. Bradfield trustees are adding a new porch and hot-water heating apparatus. Recent successes have nerved the churches for further aggressive work. We report another increase of members. During the last two years a hundred new members have joined us in Christian fel-lowship. Mrs. Harding generously pro-vided tea. Brentford.

A circuit gathering was held on Novem-ber 11th for the deepening of spiritual life. Afternoon and evening services were pre-sided over by Rev. C. Spooner. Mission services were also held from November 17th to 22nd, conducted by Rev. C. Spooner. The ladies have commenced a series of tea meetings on behalf of the ' trust funds. Congregations have increased and the prospects are very hopeful. Bristol First.

The scheme for decoration and relight-ing Ebenezer Church has been successfully carried through. The interior now pre- sents an attractive appearance. The organ has been rebuilt, decorated, and put into a new position. Reopening serivces have been held on four consecutive Sundays, conducted by Revs. J. G. Ferriday, B. Haddon, Mr. H. Willetts, of Birmingham, and Rev. T. Sandford. Following this a successful bazaar was held, for which the friends have worked admirably and given generously. The total receipts will enable the trustees to meet all the costs of renovation. A touching spectacle was wit-nessed on the first day of the bazaar. Two of the oldest members, Mrs. L. Gingell and Mrs. D. Cox, were presented with bouquets. Both have played an im-portant part in connection with the annual bazaars for many years. The receipts reached the sum of £105. Buckley.

The first round of missionary meetings was held last week. Buckley, Ewloe, Penyffordd and Mold were visited. The services of the deputation

, Rev. G. E.

Butt, were highly appreciated. Messrs. J. Anglesea, G. Jones, J. D. Griffiths, J.P., and P. H. Pugh occupied the chair at the respective meetings, and Mr. W. Inch rendered excellent service as lanternist. At each place the financial results were in advance of last year. Caledonian Road, Lor.don.

Towards paying for the renovation of the organ Mr. C. Bennie, organist of our church for upwards of seventeen years, arranged a splendid concert on Saturday, November 15th. We hope to net consider-ably over £5. On Sunday and Monday, 23rd and 24th ult., the Brotherhood anni-versary was held, conducted by Rev. W. Roberts. Mr.C. Dunn arranged a musical treat in the afternoon, and on the Monday we were favoured by a visit from the London Men's Choral Society. The ser-vices were very successful. On Wednes-day and Thursday, November 26th and 27th, a sale of work was held at Highbury Vale, opened by Mrs. J. D: Thompson and Mrs. Moore respectively. Mr. L. Newell

presided, NV.Prorbt:Its by Revs.

son. Proceeds for trust and debt reduc. tion £38.

The C.E. celebrated their anniversary on Sunday and Wednesday last. Sermons

-were preached by Rev. H. M. Hull, and selections given by our Male Voice Choir. On Wednesday a united rally was presided• oyer by Mr. W. V. Dixon, when represents-

tives were present from several societies. Rev. W. T. Healey gave a splendid address on " The Things That Matter." Miss Ger-trude Wallis, of Wootton Bassett, beauti-fully rendered two solos. The meeting was followed by a coffee supper, to which a good number stayed. Cardiff.

The November meeting was at Mount Tabor. Mrs. Balmer gave an address on her work in Sierre Leone, and Mrs. A. H. Deere sang two Indian missionary songs. Mrs. Harte presided. Tea was provided by the Misses Bagley, Cottle and Bickers. Chippenham.

A successful social was given on Wed-nesday by the teachers, when all the parents of the children were invited to attend, about 170 being present. A good musical programme was given, and re-freshments were served. Mr. Baker gave a short address on the working of the school. The effort was most successful.

Gainshorough. A most successful round of missionary

services have been held at Trinity-street, Centenary, West Stockwith, Cossingham, Springthorpe and Wellingham. The depu-tation, Revs. W. J. Ward and M. Pattison, served most efficiently. The various chair-men did handsomely, and the enthusiastic meetings found the missionary fervour which is steadily rising in this circuit. A notable event was the first anniversary of the Women's Missionary. Auxiliary. Under the presidency of Mrs. Baldwin a magnificent meeting was held. Mrs. W. H. Smithson was able to announce that in their first year they had enrolled over 100 members. Rev. W. J. Ward warmly con-gratulated them. A public tea followed. The round, including the ladies' contribu-tion of £16 10s., realised £78 18s. 6d. Gateshead,

A floral fayre was held at Whitehall-road on November 19th and 20th. The opening ceremony was performed on the 19th by Mr. J. G. Marriott, under the pre-sidency of Mr. J. L. Watson. The reopen-ing on the 20th was performed by Sunday-school scholars (trained by Misses M. Houston and J. Glendinning). The scholars contributed the sum of £5 5s. The members and friends have worked hard, but have been repaid, the income exceed-ing £70. The debt stands at £165 on the site, and we anticipate reducing it by about £70 in March. Gateshead First.

At Carr's Hill, on Sunday, November 30th, a special service was arranged by the Sunday-school teachers for the purpose of presenting a " Long Service Diploma " to Mr. E. Clapperton, who for 26/ years has been teacher. Rev. W. A. French presented the diploma. L. Maddison, Esq., Felling, presided. Rev. W. A. French preached morning and evening.

Glemsford. On Sunday and Monday, November 23rd

and 24th the Vice-President (Mr. Wm. Patterson) preached morning and evening, Rev. S. Harry preaching in the afternoon. The services were continued on Monday, when Mr. Patterson gave his popular lecture, " My visit to Mow Cop." Rev. B. D. Morris, of Long Melford, presided. Collections were taken in aid of the new building funds.

Halifax First. The Auxiliary held a meeting on Novem-

ber 12th, presided over by Mrs. Harrison. Rev. W. Potter gave an address, and Mrs. Whitaker rendered two solos. Mrs. Potter was the pianist. The monthly letter was much enjoyed. Mrs. Briscoe and Mrs. Shackleton kindly provided tea. A good collection was realised.

Hanley. On November 23rd and 24th the Marsh-

street Church was favoured with the ser-vices of Rev. Joseph Prestwich, when powerful sermons were given. On Mon-day, at the lecture entitled " Ireland and the Irish," there was a large gather-ing. The choir rendered special music. The soloists were Mrs. Harrison and Mr. Walley. Tha visit has been a great success. Holloway.

A successful bazaar was held at Hornsey-rise Mission on November 11th to 13th. Dr. Brackenbury presided the first day, and Mrs. Brackenbury declared the bazaar open. On the second day we were favoured with the presence of Mr. and Mrs. G. W. Wheeler. In the absence of Mrs. Turner, Mr. W. H. Richards declared the bazaar open on the third day, chairman Rev. A. E. Calvert. The net proceeds to date amount to £39 2s. 4d.

Knighton.

Special services, conducted by Miss Beck, of Worcester, at Langmills have been the most remarkable for attendance. On Wednesday a " Woman's Meeting " was held, and an excellent address given by Miss Beck on the " Influence of Women." Some young people have decided to live for Christ, and we are still hopeful of many more. Malt c n.

The annual Martinmas effort at Leaven-ing was held on November 27th, when Mr. Lyon gave a lecture entitled " Sayings I Have Heard." The chair was taken by Mr. Campbell. Mr. and Misses Walker and Miss Whitwell rendered excellent service. The meeting was most successful.

The annual Band of Hope tea and festi-val was held on Saturday at Battyeford. A well-attended public tea was served, after which an excellent concert was given by the children. Great credit is due to Messrs. J. Field and F. Pickard and Misses Archer and Holmes for the training of the children. Edward Ingram, Esq., of Dews-bury, presided, and an address was delivered by Rev. J. W. Hutler. The festival was successful in every way. Motherwell.

The New Stevenston Band of Hope anni-versary was celebrated on Sunday, Nov-ember 23rd, when Rev. J. Walton, of Sunderland, preached inspiring sermons. Special singing was rendered by Mr. Swift's Quartette Party at the evening ser-vice. Mr. A. Brown presided at the after-noon meeting, when the Mizpah Choir rendered excellent service. The services were a great success. New M•11s.

Missionary services have just been held in the circuit. Rev. J. Blayney, of Ashby-de-la-Zouch, deputation, delivered inspir-ing sermons on the Sunday, and addresses at each place during the week. At New Mills the Sunday evening service took the form of old-fashioned hymns and tunes, and an address by Rev. J. W. Lile. The proceeds were in advance of last year.

A. successful bazaar, promoted by our Brookbottom friends, has recently been held to pay for land recently secured at Hague Bar. On the first day the opening _was performed by Levi Hall, Esq., J.P. C.C. J. S. Wyatt, Esq., presided. On Saturday the chair was taken by R. Thone-ley, Esq., J.P. The opener was J. Richard-son, Esq., of Liverpool, an old scholar. The amount required was £120, but the grand total at the close was £237, leaving over £100 for the new building fund. The friends are justly proud of their success. No ttinr.ham Third.

A concert was recently given at Glad-stone-street in aid of the bazaar fund by Mr. and Mrs. Walkerdine, and was most successful in every respect. The artists were :—Miss Lilian Clayton, R.A.M., Miss Gladys Searson, Mr. Ernest Fisher, Mr. John E. Gooderidge, Mr. Harry Farns-worth, Mr. Cyril Godwin. Mrs. Cyril Godwin and Miss Wilmott accompanists. Chairman, Councillor J. Clarkson. The school church was crowded, and the amount raised by the effort was £10 10s. Oldham Fourth.

On Sunday, November 30th, trust Ser-mons were preached at Middleton-road by

.Rev. C. Moore, of Heywood. Mr. Moore also gave a splendid address in the after-noon on " Contagion." The choir, aug-mented by ladies of the church, sang the hymns and tunes of long ago, under the leadership of Mr. Lord. The collections were for the Trust Funds.

Preston Second. The junior section of the Fylde-road

Church and School organised special ser-vices on Saturday and Sunday last. On Saturday 400 people assembled for tea. An excellent concert was afterwards given by the juniors, trained by Miss H. B. and Miss D. W. Barker and Miss Tinsley, Mr. James Weaver, Leyland, presided. On Sunday sermons were preached by Mr. James Sivil, ex-Vice-President. Solos were rendered at each service by Mr. R. Tranter, St. Helens. During the after-noon the Moor Park Wesleyan Choir gave a service of praise, under the chairmanship of Mr. W. H. Wilding. Total proceeds amounted to £46 10s. Sheffield Seventh

In connection with the Hillsborough Church an interesting series of " At Homes " have been held. The first was held on November 26th, and was a signal success. Our host and hostess were Mr. and Mrs. H. Wat-cn. Mr. Reeves Charles-worth (Congregationalist) presiding. The

host and hostess for the second night were Mr. and Mrs. Harold Jackson. Mr. Jack-son is a solicitor and a son of the Wesleyan manse. Mrs. Stratford Hall, wife of Dr. Stratford Hall, presided. The "At Homes " have been very successful. Mr. Edward Pettinger announced that £13 10s. would be added to the funds of the church. Skipton.

Anniversary services were held at Brad-ley on November 22nd and 23rd. Rev. J. E. Woodfield served splendidly both at the lecture on Saturday and at the Sunday services. His lecture on " The Making of Modern England " was greatly enjoyed. Staithes.

Mr. Ross and a musical party from Whitby paid a visit to Runswick on Nov-ember 26th, and gave a splendid concert, followed by a coffee supper. Mr. A. F. Tate, F.R.C.O., presided at the piano. Mr. J. W. Southwell occupied the chair.. The proceeds amounted to over £4 for bazaar fund. Stanley.

A successful mission has been held at Burnhope, conducted by Mr. J. Carey, of Wheatley Hill. The meetings have been full of power. Night after night penitents found their way to the Cross. On the Sunday morning forty scholars gave their hearts to Christ, and ten adults at the evening service making a total of fifty for the day. About eighty in all have decided. for Christ during the mission. The ser-vices of Mr. Carey will long be remem-bered. The proceeds amounted to £12 19s. 8d. Swansea.

Recently we held our missionary anni.' versary, Rev. S. Bryant, deputation, serv-ing us well. For some years_ the revenue has been steadily increasing, and this year we have beaten the record, having sent to both funds £32 2s. 8d., an increase et £5 5s. 4d. on the previous year. There fs a fine missionary spirit in the circuit. We hope before long to organise a Ladies' Mis-sionary Auxiliary. Swindon First.

The annual school special was held at Lower Stratton on November 23rd and 24th. Rev. J. G. Ferriday served us splen-didly on both days. A musical service was given in the afternoon. Chairman, Rev. J. G. Ferriday. On Monday Mr. Fer-riday gave us his popular lecture on " Character." The effort was a great suc-cess financially and spiritually. At the Band of Hope on Thursday an address was given by Mr. R. Cotton, illustrated by experiments. There was a large audience. Mr. R. Cotton is the son of our esteemed minister, Rev. J. W. Cotton. Tebay.

On November 15th we held our annual concert and potato-pie supper. The children trained by Miss Hayworth and Miss Knowles gave the cantata "Fairy Ring" and several action songs, while the mem-bers of the choir gave the dialogue " Annie's E01iday." Mr. W. J. Wharton presided, and as1.-ed Miss Hayworth to open the new piano which has been pur-chased. Proceeds for Piano Fund £5. On November 16th and 17th we lolci our annual missionary meetings. Our deputa-tion was Rev. W. Skelton. The collections were good, and the Ladies' Missionary Auxiliary by their " At Homes " raised a grand total of nearly £22 for our mission.

On November 27th Rev. Thos. Jackson, ex-President, paid us his first visit. He preached in theafternoon and night. The friends generously provided tea and sup-per. Mr. Jackson went away with a light heart, and gladdened with nearly four guineas in his pocket to help him in his work for the Master. At the scholars', examination twenty scholars sat. In the senior class our Sunday-school gained eighth Connexional prize with 95k, second prize in the upper middle, first, -second and third prizes lower middle, and third prize in the junior in the darlisle and Whitehaven district. All the scholars who sat gained certificates. Misses Hayworth and Knowles kindly trained them.

Tet ney. Missionary meetings have been held ati

Waltham, Brightley, Barnoldby and Beeld-by.The deputation was Mrs. W. J. Ward, of Cleethorpes. The, addresses created a new interest in the missionary cause, and not only were the meetings well attended but the collections showed an improvement of more than 25 per cent. on the previous year. At Thoresby a special mission had been conducted by Misses Snape and Fors-ter. This was the second visit of the mis-sieners. Good has been done. The mis-sion cicsed with a thanksgiving tea and recital.

Superior Costume, To Order,

35/-

Other Prices, S,perior Qualities,

35/-, 42/-, 45/-, 52/6 Latest Winter

PATTERNS FREE.

titCEMBEit 4, 1913

THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. Sn

A Methodist Leader. " The Life of Henry J. Pope, D.D. By his Son. (Charles

H. Kelly. 5s. net.) This is an admirable . biography of a distinguished

ecclesiastical statesman. Dr. Pope sometimes objected to being called a " statesman," as in the loose language of to-day that term sometimes is made to stand for " diplomacy " or " spread-eagleism " ; but in its truest sense, as one skilled in the art of government, a man who applies wise measures to the accomplishment of noble ends, he was a statesman. A highly organised Christian community like the Methodist Church offers exceptional opportunities for the gifts of a man of his order ; and for forty years he gave to the Wesleyan Church unstinted service. With keen insight, calm judgment, firm will, persuasive manner, intellectual habits and persistent industry, he early acquired a com-manding influence in the administrative departments of the Church, and he did a work that has contributed in no small degree to the posj,tion and power of that Church during the last half-century. The preacher, the lecturer, or the missionary advocate is much in the public eye, the administrator moves largely in the office, the committee-room, the council chamber ; but the success of the one is much more dependent on the other than is usually acknowledged. Dr. Pope entered the ministry without the advantage of a theological training, going direct from business to a circuit. Few men in later years had a warmer sympathy with the most efficient training possible for the ministerial office, and yet probably he had what for his future calling in life was even better—a careful business training, a qualification that training colleges do not always supply, and yet one of vast importance in tho practical work of the Christian ministry.

The public life of Dr. Pope divides itself into three sections. For nineteen years, 1858-1877, he was a circuit minister, characterised by careful preparation for his public work, diligent pastoral oversight, effective business administration, and withal an intense evangelistic passion, which happily he never lost, and which illumined not a few of the dull details of his subsequent administrative career. For nineteen years, 1877-1896, he was the Chapel Secretary, and in that onerous but influential position he did much to consolidate and develop the Wesleyan Church. A careful study of the annual Chapel Report of this Committee would do not a little to explain the wonderful progress in the material structures of this Church during the last fifty years. All proposals for new erections, or modifications of existing buildings, must have the approval of this Committee. It has at its command the most expert knowledge of chapel architecture, keen business acumen, full knowledge of all matters relating to the tenure of land, eligibility of sites, and large material resources. As it can give substantial help to applicants, it can exercise effective control over what is done. As an institution for these objects it is probably the most perfect of its kind in these realms. Dr. Pope rendered signal

service as the secretary of this department. He became a 1 rig, encyclopaedia of everything relating to the build-ing and maintenance of trust property, and he sent the glow of warm spiritual fervour through all the material projects with which he dealt. Probably the erection of the Central Hall, Manchester, was the greatest achieve-ment to which he contributed in this part of his career. For sixteen years, 1896-1912, he was Home Missionary Secretary. He took a prominent part in promoting the erection of the Central Mission Halls in many of the great towns, in the selection of missioners, and the general superintendence of the work. Few men have served the Wesleyan Church with greater ability and devotion, and this biography by his son is a worthy memorial of his character and work. T. M.

with a charming picture on the front cover, and five equally charming pictures within. All the books men-tioned here are beautifully illustrated.

" Dreams and Deeds," by Rev. Benjamin J. Gibbon. (Sunday School Union. ls. 6d. net.) This is a volume of addresses given to the children in the Sunday morning service, and many of them have appeared in " The Christian World Pulpit." They are amongst the' finest children's addresses published. Informing the mind, stir-ring the emotions, inspiring to brave deeds, and most of them easy to remember. To teachers and preachers they will be very suggestive, and parents would do well to buy it for themselves and their children to read.

" Arthur Mee's Letters to Boys." (Hodder and Stough-ton. ls. net.) Arthur Mee is the editor of "The Children's Magazine and Encyclopedia," and knows well the mind of young people. These letters are for boys of thirteen to seventeen years of age, and are just what is needed to rouse every manly quality in the boy. They are fine in their inspirations. One letter to the boy who loves a hero leads straight to Jesus—the world's greatest Hero —and is worth many ordinary sermons in its 'moving appeal to the boy to follow.

Books for Young People.

The Pilgrim Press Company, London, has become famous for boys' and girls' books. Parents can always rely upon anything that comes from this house. Their books 'are always good, without being goody-goody, and for young people they yearly issue some splendid volumes. We have just received " Young England," an illustrated book for English-speaking boys throughout the world. This is the thirty-fifth annual volume. It is a big book of nearly '500 pages—three columns in a page. There are three serials worth half-a-crown each, and, in addition, there are twenty short stories and over a hundred articles of interest to boys. Here is pleasure for a boy for all the winter evenings, and at 5s. the volume is cheap. "Under King Henry's Banner," by Percy F. Westerman, is a stirring story of the fifteenth century. The hero is a youth named Geoffrey Lysle, who saves more than once the life of the King, and also the life of his father. For his bravery and valour he is re-warded with confidence and honour. The price is 3s. 6d., as is " Beyond the Frontier," by F. B. Forester. This tells how a man on .a passenger ship in Mid-Atlantic espies a raft, from which there is rescued a boy named Donald. Years after the boy and the man meet in America, where they have exciting adventures amongst the Red Indians. Boys will revel in both these stories. " The Children of the Frostmoor," by Laura Fitinghoff (3s. 6d.), is a charm-ing Swedish story, translated into English. Both little children and grown-ups will delight in this book. It is of seven orphans, who left home after their father and mother died, and wandered -away to seek a home amongst strangers. Brave they were, and many were their adven-tures, but all ended happily, though they had many sor-rows on the way. "All the Old Nursery Tales," by Gladys Davidson (3s. 6d. net), will make a powerful appeal to the little folks. Here they will read of Cinderella, Little Goody Two Shoes, Bluebeard, The Pied Piper, Jack and the Beanstalk, Puss in Boots, The Sleeping Beauty, and twenty-five other stories. The book is beautifully bound,

In Children' s Bookland. Messrs. J. M. Dent and Sons are issuing volumes of

tales for children. Only such stories as have proved them-selves immortal are included. " Gulliver's Travels " is one of the series. Gulliver's best-known and best-loved voyages are here given—those to the land of dwarfs and the land of the giants. This is just the book for children who do not know the story. It has 128 pages, is printed in good type, has eight beautiful illustrations. So also has " The Fables of La Fontaine," rendeted into English by Frederick Colin Tilney. Here are forty-eight famous fables, delightful to read, full of wisdom for big people as well as for little ones. Each book is published at ls. 6d. net.

From Messrs. Routledge and Sons we have received " The Life of Our Lord," told chiefly in words of one syllable for young children, by A. Pitt-Kethley (1s. net). Little children will read it with interest, and the greater part is in the actual words of the Gospels. " The Child's Bible" (Cassell and Co., ls. net) contains a selection of 140 Bible stories, all told in the words of the Authorised Version. Many children find the Bible uninteresting, but this is the volume to give them a liking for the Best of Books.

Messrs. T. G. and E. C. Jack are publishing some of Charles Dickens' works in a form to attract boys and girls. Two volumes are now issued—" A Tale of Two Cities " and " Barnaby Budge "—retold for children by Alice F. Jackson. It is a happy thought to introduce some of Dickens' best books in this delightful way. Boys and girls will revel in them. Each contains over 160 pages, has eight coloured illustrations, and is sold at ls. 6d. net.

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878

THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. toECEM13Et 4, 1913

Church News. Accrington.

A successful series of " At Homes " have been held at Higher Antley. On Wednes-day the opening ceremony was performed by Mr. Constantine, Mr. E. Overton pre-siding. On the Thursday Mr. J. Lamb was the opener, and Councillor J. H. Whit-taker presided. On the Saturday Mr. J. T. Walmsley and Mr. Prescott were the opener and chairman, the sum realised being about £10 10s. Barrowford.

For two-and-fifty years Rev. E. Gough, B.A., has been pastor of the Congrega-tional Church in Barrowford, Lancs, and for fifty years he has attended our aiinual missionary meeting and given an address. On Tuesday, November • 18th, he gave a fascinating speech, also paying a heart-stirring tribute to our church and its minister (Rev. George A. Lucas) to him during his recent critical illness. To commensurate this jubilee address Mr. Lucas presented him with a missionary volume suitably inscribed. The anniver-sary has been very successful. The deputation, Rev. Wm. Glover, of Glasgow, served splendidly. The young people's services proved very popular, and the scholars acquitted themselves well; The social at Church-street, with its dialogues, chorus in Efik, solos, speeches, curios and refreshments, was most enjoyable. Mr. J. Dixon presided. Four years since the missionary income at Church-street was 215 ; it has now reached £28 6s. Barley also has advanced to £5 18s., and New-bridge to £5 4s. ; total, £39 8s. We are within a fraction of an average of 4s. per member. Birmingham.

A grand " At Home " was held at Rookery-road, Handsworth, on November 25th and 26th. The hosts and hostesses were Mr. and Miss Poulton and Mr. and Mrs. T. S. Medley. The room was taste-fully decorated. An excellent programme was given each evening. Financial result was very encouraging.

THE IMPORTANT DEAFNESS DISCOVERY.

Specialists Say Suitable Cases May Test it Free.

BUT THEY DECIDE IF SUITABLE.

A method of treatment for Deafness and Head-Noises has been discovered, which, though useless for certain forms of the trouble, is said, for the kinds of ear-trouble that it does suit, to be producing results hitherto unheard of. Cases of even many years' standing, on which everything else known has been tried in vain, have yielded at once to this remarkable new treatment.

Its discoverers—who have named the treat-ment "The Hyomee Deafness Treatment," because the famous germicidal inhalant Hyomee is one of the ingredients used in it—are so determined not to raise false hopes that they do not allow their treatment to be used at all on unsuitable cases; on the other hand, so confident are they of getting results in cases that it does suit, that in all cases where they do recommend it, they—for the present and until the offer is withdrawn—allow the sufferer to test it free.

Such an offer of free test could presumably only be roads--even temporarily—for a treat-silent of quite exceptional merit, and it is only fair that the makers of such an offer should be allowed to themselves select the cases they agree to treat on the free test basis.

A booklet has been published, giving full par-ticulars of this now treatment, and clearly describing the features and symptoms of the particular kinds of Deafness and Head-Noises for which it is good. A copy of this booklet (accompanied by a Question Form to be filled up and returned) may be had post free by send-ing a letter or postcard asking for same to the publishers—R. T. Booth's Hyomee, Ltd., 895, Boycroft House, 96, Southwark-street, Landon, S. E.

Sufferers from Deafness or Head-Noises are invited to send for that booklet and Question Form. When the latter is filled in and returned, the discoverers will be at once able to see from the information filled in thereon if the case is one that is suitable for this new treatment, and, if so, will agree to furnish the necessary materials and instructions on the basis of their free test offer, or otherwise will write that their treatment would not be suit-able to the particular case.

Since, therefore, sufferers can learn all about this new treatment by getting the booklet as above, and, -without any risk, test it if suitable, we believe the discoverers of this new treat-ment are likely to find a very large acceptance of their generous offer to Deafness sufferers. As the offer of Free Test may be at any time withdrawn if the discoverers find their hands too full, an early application for the 'frel% descriptive booklet is advisable.

Hull Third. Holderness-road Church anniversary has

just been held. Rev. J. Watkin was the preacher. He drew excellent congrega-tions. On the Monday he delivered his popular lecture on "The Most Unpopular Thing in the World." Mr. J. Sykes pre-sided. On the Tuesday an " At Home " was held, which was very successful. Pro-ceeds over £21. On the next Sabbath the mission band made an effort. Rev. John Hall was the preacher. On the Monday they gave a service of song entitled " Her Benny." Mr. Wakelin presided at the organ, and Rev. John Hall was reader. Mr. J. Harman took the chair. The con-gregations were large at each occasion. The church is alive spiritually and full of hope.

Ipswich. Clarkson-street celebrated its P.S.A. an-

niversary on November 19th, 23rd and 24th. On the Wednesday we were favoured with. a visit by the Vice-President of Con-ference, Mr. W. M. Patterson, who gave an address in the afternoon and lectured in the evening on " Mow Cop," Mr. I. Winkworth presiding. On the Sunday Rev. F. C. France was the preacher, and also gave the address at the P.S.A., Mr. B. Davis presiding. On Monday the tea and public meeting was held, Mr. W. White in the chair. Rev. F. C. France and Mr. G. E. Hides, of Colchester Brotherhood, were the speakers. The P.S.A. is greatly prospering.

Kendal. Missionary services have just been con-

ducted with a pleasing advance in money in the aggregate of £8. Revs. James Shepherd and W. Sutton ably served as deputation. Total proceeds, £40 3s. 4d. School anniversary services on Sunday and Monday last. Rev. J. Hopkins preached. A string band in attendance. The singing of the children and young people an inspiration. Collections, £7 16s. 6d.

Loddon. A very successful seven days' mission

has just been conducted at Bungay by Mr. E. G. Prasatham Cotelingam. From the reception meeting on November 18th till November 24th the meetings were full of enthusiasm. The memory of Sunday ser-vices will long live with us. Souls were stirred as never -before, and sought for a closer fellowship with the Master.

Long Eaton. Very successful missionary services have

just been held, Rev. C. P. Groves, B.D., enthusiasm. The memory of Sunday's ser-mons and addresses will not soon be for-gotten. The income amounted to over £60 for the week, the net result being a little in advance of last year : Bourne 225 Se., Derby-road £301s. ; New Sawley £4 5s. 9d., Breaston 14s. 5cl.

Morley. The sum of £225 was the amount realised

at the bazaar recently held at Ebenezer Church. The bazaar was opened by the Mayor, Councillor B. B. Barker ; thus his first public function as chief magistrate was in connection with his own Church. The Sunday morning following the Mayor, Aldermen and Councillors paid a civic visit to the church, the preacher being Rev. W. A. R. Collins. The choir

rendered special anthems, and the whole service was very impressive.

New Skelton in Cleveland. Special services have been conducted by

Miss Swillens, of Redcar, from November 2nd to 20th. Cottage meetings have been held, and the neighbourhood visited by Gospel bands. The meetings have been full of the Holy Spirit. The mission has been a great spiritual uplift to Church and people.

Norwich Second. We have been favoured at Dereham-

road with a visit from the Vice-President of Conference, whose services have been much appreciated. On Saturday a well-attended conference on the work of God took place, addressed by Mr. Patterson, Revs. H. Yooll and G. H. Smith and others. On Sunday Mr. Patterson preached chapel anniversary sermons to excellent congretations ; he also addressed the P.S.A. A public tea was held on Monday, after which Mr. Patterson gave his lecture on "Mow Cop" to a large audience. Alderman H. J. Watts, J.P., presided. A pleasing feature of the even-ing was a presentation to Mr. W. R. Palmer of an illuminated address and a purse of money. Mr. Palmer has' been secretary of the Dereham-road trust for thirty years, an ardent worker in the Sunday-school for thirty-five years, a class leader forty years, and for forty-four years a successful local preacher in Norwich

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DECEMBER 4, 1913

THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. 879

First and Second Circuits. The presenta-tion was made by Mr. W. M. Burton and Mr. Palmer feelingly replied.

Pillowell. On November 18th we received a visit

from Rev. A. T. Guttery, who preached in the afternoon, and in the evening delighted a large audience with his lecture on " Merry England." Mr. G. H. Rowlinson presided.

Rhosymedre. A successful rottiii of missionary ser-

vices has just been held. The meetings were characterised by real missionary fer-vour, and were addressed by Revs. J. Dudley (deputation), W. D. Turner and S. Buckley. The monies raised were in advance of last year : Rhosymedre £15 12s. 7d., Ifton Heath £11 8s. 7d., Vron. £6 6s. 3d., Coppperas £5 12s.,

Rotherham Second. A fortnight's mission services have been

held at Masbro', conducted by Mrs. Morris. There have been some splendid conversions, and a large number of our elder scholars have given their hearts to God. Credit is due to Rev. J. Badminton for the splendid way in which he has helped the mission. Mr. A. Badminton has also been a valuable helper. There was a largely attended thanksgiving tea on Thursday. Mrs. Morris afterwards re-lated her call and experiences in mission work. The church has been greatly blessed.

South Bank. A series of "At Homes" was held on

November 25th to 27th. The hosts and hostesses were Mr. and Mrs. C. E. Morris, (Grangetown), Mr. and Mrs. J. James (Murton), and Mr. and Mrs. J. 0. Cooper (South Bank). The programme was pro-vided on Tuesday by the Cuff Glee Party and Mr. Chris. Bell ; on Wednesday by Miss Cowey and Master Birkbeck (Coun-don) and Messrs. Clapham and Garbutt (York), Mr. G. E. Vaux accompanist. On Thursday Mr. J. J. Smith, Miss W. Ward, Miss Robinson and the Brothers Kelsons and Mr. W. Cooper, pianist, provided the programme. The effort was a great suc-cess.

Stratford. Very successful missionary anniversary

services have been held at Cobbold-road. Rev. George Walmsley (Redditch) preached to good congregations. The annual meeting on Thursday was very en-thusiastic. Mr. L. Mayhew presided. Addresses were given by Revs. George Faulkner and A. T. Slater. Soloist, Mr. H. Hersom. At Forest Gate the preacher was the circuit minister. Meeting held on Tuesday, under the presidency of Mr. Francis Totman. Addresses by Revs. T. H. Bickerton and A. T. Slater. Miss Maude Crow was soloist, and four mem-bers of the choir rendered a quartette. Total proceeds better than for many years.

Sturminster Newton. The unmarried young people at Bridge

Chapel held a social evening on Wednes-day, Nov. 26th. Mr. A. W. Cluett (Bag-ber) presided, and Rev. R. W. Burnett gave an address. The proceeds amounted to £4 8s., which were devoted to the chapel funds. At Shroton the chapel anniversary was celebrated on November 23rd and 24th. Mr. F. Burt, of Bournemouth, preached excellent sermons. On Monday, after tea, a public meeting was held, pre-sided over by Rev. R. W. Burnett and addressed by Mr. Burt. A favourable re-port was presented by Mr. W. H. Painter. Special singing was rendered by Miss Eva Hoskins, Miss Skivington and Mrs. Lodge.

Waterhouses. The Quarterly Meeting was held at Esh

Winning last Saturday. Rev. T. Dale pre-sided, and Mr. G. Homan was secretary. The membership remains at 281. Arrange-ments were made for the visits of the Vice-President and Rev. W. Gelley next quar-ter. There was a balance in hand of nearly £9. Sister Miriam (Miss Hammel) was congratulated on her appointment as sister of the people to North Shields Cir-cuit.

Windsor. We have had a most successful round of

missionary services, the deputation being Rev. W. Green. At Bracknell the speakers were Rev. G. Kendall and Mr. F. Youens ; chairman, Mr. W. W. Coles. Proceeds, 16s. 7d. At Windsor Mr. John presided, and the speakers were Revs. W. Green and G. Kendall. Proceeds, 19s. 4d. At Winkfield-road Councillor Osman pre-sided, and the speakers were Mrs. Kendall and Revs. W. Green and G. Kendall, a special feature being a dialogue given by Samuel and Arthur Nickless. It is worthy of note that Samuel, Fred, and Arthur Nickless collected £3 between them, walking many miles in their quest for subscribers. Total proceeds, £4 5s. 10d. At Ledgers-road, Slough, Mr. G. F. Weeks ably presided. Revs. W. Green and G. Kendall were the speakers. Pro-ceeds, £10 12s. Old. At William-streez, Slough, Mr. J. Chapman made a splendid chairman, and the deputation and circuit minister gave addresses. Proceeds, £5 9s. 10- d. At Sunningdale the chair-man was Mr. Hopkins, and the speakers Rev. G. and Mrs. Kendall. Proceeds, £1 ls. lid. The grand total for the circuit was £23 5s. 'lid., over £3 more than last year.

Wombwell. Mr. and Mrs.. Chas. E. Barraclough's

visit will long be remembered. Many have received a rich blessing. At the close of the indoor service, and accompanied by nearly the whole congregation, the mis-sioners journeyed through the town sing-ing sweet songs of invitation. Much in-terest was created. On the second Saturn day we had a brass band parade and mid-night meeting. Many gathered straight from the public-houses and theatres. The last Sunday night found the church full. We rejoice in souls deciding for Christ.

York Second.

Chapel anniversary sermons were preached at Albany-street by Rev. W. Franks and Mr. G. Stephenson, of Old Malton. The Victoria Bar Choir gave a sacred concert on the first Sunday, and one by the Albany-street Choir on the second Sunday. Collections in advance of previous year. At the church anniver-sary at Heslington-road, sermons were preached by Rev.. J. Reavley. The choir also gave an excellent sacred concert, pre-sided over by Mr. J. R. Hill. On the second Sunday sermons by Rev. W. Franks and service of song was given by the James-street M.M. Choir. The col-lections 'and donations amounted to over £23.

Women's Missionary Federation.

Accrington.

The ladies held a tea and lantern lecture at Higher Antrey on November 26th. The tea was a great success. Mrs. Heys pre-sided at the evening meeting. Miss Minds was the soloist, and Mr. J. Heys the accom-panist. Miss Thorpe gave the lecture. The amount realised by the tea and lecture was £1 12s. 10d.

Forest Hill.

A schoolroom meeting was kindly given by 'Ars. Adams and Mrs. Revill at Knight's Hill-road, West Norwood, on November 28th. Mrs. T. Proud presided, Mrs. J. Price supporting the President. Mr. James Sivil, of Sheffield, gave a very interesting address ; Rev. G. Bennett also addressing the meeting. Sister Elizabeth read the missionary letter from Mrs. Dodds, and Miss Quin rendered a solo. Mrs. W. R. Bird thanked all the helpers. The collection amounted to £3 15s. 6d.

Rhosymedre.

The monthly meeting on November 25th was well attended. Mrs. S. Buckley pre-sided. Miss Hackett conducted the Scripture reading. Rev. W. D. Turner read the foreign letter, and an address was given by Rev. J. Dudley. Mrs. Evans presided at the or-

Your own Christmas will be all the happier if you make others happy.

WE WANT TO GIVE

100 CHRISTMAS DINNERS to distressed families, widows and others.

A ROBIN DINNER ■

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to 400 starving children.

A CHRISTMAS TEA AND HAPPY EVENING

to 800 poor children and 100 poor mothers connected with our Mission.

But we cannot do it without your help.

Please send a contribution, however small, • to

Rev J. TOLEFREE PARR or SISTER BERTHA,

SURREY CHAPEL CENTRAL MISSION, BLACKFRIARS ROAD, LONDON, 8.E,

Cast-Off Clothing or all kinds, Toys, &c., will also be gratefully received.

ACED LOCAL PREACHERS

FUND.

CHRISTMAS DINNER GIFTS.

140 ACED BROTHERS & SISTERS.

Donations solicited, which should be sent to the Treasurer. Mr. J. Skinner, 10, Beacon Hill, Camden Road, N., or may be sent to the Secretary, Rev. G. Trusler, 59, Howley Road, Croydon.

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T. M. BRINDLEY, Jidvertisement .Manager, 4, Ludgate Circus, E.0

880 THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. DECEMBER 4, 1913

If you require a Piano or Organ please read our Special Offers to-day.

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BOOTS.—Save nearly 50 per cent. buying from factory direct. Agents wanted. — Fiend

postage, 2d. for large illustrated list and particulars, British Boot Co. (Dept. 144), Portland Square, Bristol.

CHINA BAZAAR SPECIALITIES.— Church Badged Tea Ware ; Reliable Pottery for

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WANTED to borrow, on Southampton Second Circuit Manse, the sum of £200 03

promissory note, at el, per cent., paid quarterly.—

Addreas, Rev. J. T. BYARS, Bourneville, bhaftesburl Avenue, Southampton.

London Published by "The Associated Methodist Newspapers Company, Limited," 73, Farringdon Street, E.C. Printed by Wyman & Sons, Ltd., Hells Buildings, Fetter Lane, E.C., Thursday, Deember 4, l91O.