214 THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. APRIL 4, 1907

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Sunday School Lesson GOD GIVES JACOB A NEW NAME.

Genesis xxxii. 9-12; 22-50. Sunday, April 14th, 1907.

GOLDEN TEXT.—' Rejoice that your names are written in heaven.' Luke x. 20.

HYMNS.-365, 507, 369, 360. LINKS OF HISTORY. —The twenty years intervening be-

tween Jacob's flight and Jacob's return, spent in the service of his uncle Laban away in Haran, were important years in the training of Jacob, and prepared him for the great re-ligious crisis forming the theme of to-day's lesson. A crafty schemer himself, he had met a craftier still in his uncle, and as the years passed and Jacob saw his own besetting sin reflected in another, a loathing of it must have filled his mind. Not that he was cured of his sin, as the manner of his escape shows, but he was ready for the revelation of the truth, that, not in his own resources, but in reliance upon God, was his strength. Further, the years of separation from home must have borne in upon him the awful consequences of deceit, and a longing for reconciliation grew as the years passed. So he resolves to return, no more the solitary wanderer, but the chieftain of a clan, with two wives and eleven sons, and abundant wealth of camels, sheep, and oxen. I.—The teacher may introduce the lesson by showing the

fear and distress of Jacob as he approaches the borders of his old home. The fear is the fruit of an old wrong. It is better to dread the consequences of sin, and be kept from it by a wholesome fear than to live in dread of the consequences them-selves. The story of

Jacob's Opponent is full of instruction for us. Tne lesson shows that Jacob's reliance upon craft, subtlety, his power of astute management, had a double opponent. (1) The hatred of Esau, which was unrelenting, intense, and deadly. (2) The merciful hatred of Divine love to Jacob's scheming ambition for his own interests. It is surely a solemn truth on the one side that the fruit of our own disobedience to God stands in the way of our entrance into many a promised gift of God. Our own sins become our enemies. Equally solemn, and yet gracious, on the other side is the assurance that God becomes an antagonist of everything in us which keeps us out of our royalty and victory over every sin. It is significant that Esau's vulgar and equally un-worthy opposition, which loomed so forbiddingly as the travel-ler approached Edom, drops into the background as the crisis of the inner life is faced, and God, with His ideals, meets Jacob with his small, worldly schemes of promotion. If we have fought out the larger questions of the soul, we shall find all other difficulties adjusting themselves with ease. ' When a man's ways please God, He maketh even his enemies to be at peace with him.'

IL—This supplies us withthebackground and the conditions of

Jacob's Struggle. We have seen, in earlier studies, that, notwithstanding his great faults, Jacob had strong religious desires. It is good that our distresses, difficulties, depressions should turn us back upon the exercise of our religious faculties. In this Jacob stands as a pattern for us. And while, no doubt, fear of Es'au is uppermost in Jacob's prayer, vv. 9-12, and while the element of bargaining, even with God, is to be seen in these petitions, it is interesting to mark less of that element than we saw in our lesson last week (Genes. xxviii. 20-22). There is, further, a note of humiliation in this petition, absent from the prayer of twenty years before, when he was so much nearer his sin. How true it is that God is willing to take any approach on our part to His more gracious desires for us, and strengthen it, until we are prepared to say, Not my will, but Thine be done.'

III.—With this key guiding us, we pass to vv. 22-27. It marks the entrance into and the successful emergence from the crisis every one of us most meet in turn. Divine love must conquer us and lame our selfishness, or we shall never come to our right. Jacob sought to enter te land promised, to him by the strength of his own power to propitiate his brother's anger, and to bargain with God that he would do certain things on certain conditions. This strength, in which Jacob trusted, was his weakness, and unless it is broken down, will be his utter ruin.

If we, as young people, imagine that we can carve our own way through life, using tact, common-sense, education, obser-vation, and relying on these, we are deceived, that confidence has always lured its victims to destruction. In their place they are good, and to be used, but not until all have been sur-rendered to the authority and will of God.

Our true strength is in the shrinking and halting of our own powers, that the wisdom and power of God may assume their gracious mastery. God is proprietor of our life concerns, not we. He honours and exalts us into partnership, but even so, it is God who worketh in us to will and to do of His good pleasure.

IV.—We may, for convenience, speak of the issue of that night's °dais, recorded in vv. 27-32 as

Jacob's Victory. In reality, it was, as it must ever be, God's victory. Conver-sion ought to mean God's conquest of us. Jacob's new name was but the outward token of an inward change, the change from the selfihlt to the surrendered, the wilful to the obedient, the crafty Jacob, considering his own ends, to the cultured companion of the King, being made a prince and representative of Heaven's royalty. Names in scripture are designations of character. Jesus turns the impulsive, fickle Simon into the reliant, rook-like Peter. The Sons of Thunder, James and John, became the sons of consolation. Saul the persecutor becomes Paul the apostle of reconciliation. We ought to deserve the name

' Sons of God, because we have the spirit or

nature of God. Not again do we find Jacob falling back upon craft and cunning. He develops a fine generousness of dis-position, and such a beauty of character as to make his latter life a pattern. We may never lose the marks of the sacrifice out of which came per strength; the gain of God's strength justifies any cost,

guar J, PiggETT,

Christian Endeavour. Topic !or Week beginning April 14th.

God's Doorkeeper. Psalm lxxxiv. 8-12.

C.E. Hymnal 70, 91, 90, and 180.

1.—Desire for God. God is more to be desired than all be-side by this Psalmist. This desire throbs through the Psalm and burets out in prayer. Hear my prayer, give ear, 0 God of Jacob.' God is to him a dire necessity. He pants for God. It is with him a thirst for God, which if not quenched will lead to death.

IL—Desire for God's House. To the Jews the presence of God was very specially and emphatically associated with the Temple. They made long journeys to appear before God in His Temple. There was the altar and there God communed with His people as 71e did not elsewhere. With our fuller conception of God'e spirituality and all pervading presence, let us guard against the neglect of God's House for worship. ' Neglect not the assembly of yourselves together.' God manifests His presence in the midst of praying worshippers, and as we wait together in His name He renews our spiritual strength. if we know these things we shall appreciate the assemblies of the saints, not only at our Endeavour service, but at the public services of the church. A deaf man wee asked why he was so regular in attendance at God's House. He replied, ' That he knew he was surrounded by others who could hear and were true worshippers, and that he knew it to be God's will that he should be in His courts on His day.' That deaf man's regular presence and steady look was an in-spiration to his minister. These are they who find that one day spent in God's House is better than a thousand spent else-where.

III.—Devotion to the active service of God's House. I bad rather be a door-keeper in the house of my God.' Such is the devotion of this Psalmist. To him the lowliest place and the humblest duty is taken and done with the holiest joy. There is no craving for prominence, but a burning desire to be useful, anywhere and anyhow. To be a door-keeper was the lowliest part in the Temple service, and for this he was will-ing and anxious. That is the right and best spirit for all God's workers. It is in beautiful accord with the spirit and teaching of Jesus. He was the Son of God sharing the glory of the Father, but He became a man and a servant. He hesi-tated not to stoop down and wash the feet of His disciples, after which be taught, that as He had done to them so they should do to each other. The servant was not greater than his Lord. May all our Endeavourers covet earnestly this great gift.

I V.—The position of doorkeeper contrasted with other honours and joys. I had rather be a door-keeper in the House of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness. The tents of wickedness have their glamour and attraction, but the Psalmist knows that even dwelling in the midst of these tents there is no security, nothing permanent. They are the tents which the sudden storms of life may quickly uproot. The pleasures, etc , of sin are but for a season. To be a door-keeper in the House of God may be to serve others and to look on rather than actively participate in many of the privileges and joys of those who dwell in God's House. Still the door place in God's House suggests permanency. The reward of such service will be to d well in the House of the Lord forever.

Junior Topic. Psalm lxxxiv. 8-12.

C.E. Hymnal 448, 397, 400, 180.

Tins psalm tells you of a man who said he would rather be just a door-keeper, a servant at the door of God's house, than be the master or head of a house where wicked people are.

He evidently means by this that he would rather enjoy the pleasures of any lowly duty in the House of prayer, than have all the luxuries and pleasures that are to be had among sinful people. In this he was like Moses, who said he would rather suffer persecution with good people than have the pleasures of sin for a season. Some people evidently think there are no pleasures for people who meet to sing hymns, read the Bible, and try to serve God. We are sure that these people are greatly mistaken. Like this psalmist we believe there is more real happineee in doing the very least things in the service of God, than all the grand ways of wicked people. I wonder how many of our Juniors agree with this. We trust that all of you do. Don't be persuaded by anyone that you can have more real pleasure anywhere than you can in your Endeavour and Sunday school. Also, we trust that at your Endeavour service you are always as ready to be a door-keeper as a con-ductor of the service or the reader of the topic.

—CHARLES HUMBLE.

Sunniside. A grand concert was given by the Houghton Excelsior Glee party, rendered in a very pleasing manner before a crowded audience. Mr. J. Foster, of Houghton-le-Spring, presided.

Stroud. The March rally of the Stroud and District C.E. Union was held in the S roud Primitive Methodist chapel on Thursday, March 21st. Mr. W. H. Underwood took the chair, and was sup-ported by Revs. C. Beer, C. A. Davis, D. A. Davies, H. J. Time-well, C. H Ceaplin, and Messrs. R. C. Cox and S. G. Weaver. Solos were rendered by the Misses M. Hawkes and Taylor (Primitive Methodist) and a recitation given by Miss Saunders. The Rev. C. Beer gave a bright and helpful address to the young people. There was a good attendance, and the meeting was much enjoyed.

WidneS. The choir anniversary at Frederick Street was held on March 24th, when excelleut sermons were preached by the Rev. C. L. Stowe. The choir, under the leadership of Mr. A. L. Finch, B.Sc., gave the following anthems — Te Deum Laudamus (Jackson), Longfellow's Psalm of Life' (El. Ernest Nichol),

waited for the Lord' (Mendo'ssohn), and ' I will lay me down in peace (Gadsby). Mr. A. E. Price presided at the organ with marked ability. The servioes were thoroughly enjoyable and profitable.

Kind Hearts.

GOING HOME TO DINNER.' MANY boys are impatient to be done schooling and to start work. They think it will be a fine thing to have no home lessons to do, just to work so many hours each day and have the rest for pleasure, and then to get so many shillings wage at the end of the week. But when they do get to work they don't always find it as pleasant as they expected. A boy of this sort was once asked what part of his work he liked the beet, and he said, Going home to dinner and putting up the shutters. I'm afraid that sort of boy will never get on in life unlese he alters.

Hard work is one of the secrete of success in life. ManYgtgat and rich men of to-day labour far more than eight hours out of the twenty-four. You will never become skillful unless you apply yourself. Clever musicians often practice six or more hours per day. It is possible to do most things if you try hard enough and long enough. It is just as easy to learn French as English if you give as much time to one as to the other. You have learnt to speak English because you have been trying ever since you were a baby and said 'Main Mam !' If you had worked as earnestly at your French you would have been able to find your way about Paris by this.

Hard work makes the task easy and pleasant in the end. There is no pleasure keener than that of doing a piece of difficult work easily and gracefully. What was once irksome and unpleasant becomes a joy. Skating at first makes the legs ache, but when you master it there is the delight a bird must feel in freely gliding through the air.

Carey, the great missionary, was once asked what was the secret of his success, and be said, can plod.' That meant he could start his work and however hard and unpleasant it was he could keep at it. It is not the boy who does a bril-liant thing to-day, is idle for a week after it, who wins the prizes, but he who steadily plods along every day, doing his work carefully, and so always improving. A liberal supply of stick-at-it-iveness will master most difficulties.

I have read that on one occasion one of the Kings of Sweden was in his house during a war, and was telling his secretary what to write, when a bomb-shell crashed into the house, doing much damage, but leaving the room where the king wasaitt-ing untouched. The secretary at once ceased writing and dropped his pen in fear. Why do you cease your work?' said the king. ' The bomb-shelll' replied the man. What of that!' answered the king, ' we are still alive, go on with your work.' Now, that was a fine courage, and showed how determined the king was. Many of us stop work for much lees than a bombshell. We must learn to master ourselves as well as our circumstances. Don't be always waiting for the dinner-bell. Get interested in your work and the time will fly all too quickly.

Besides the daily work that has to be done for bread and butter, everybody should do a bit of unpaid work for Jesus, and to make the world sweeter and happier. Some of our Guild are 16 years of age. It is fully time they had some definite work to do in the church and the school. I was -a Sunday school teacher long before then, and began to preach (or to try) at 17. We want all our Kind Hearts to be workers, not loafers and idlers. Work for your health's sake. Work that you may be happy. Work that you may be like your Master, who said, must work.'

Do a Kindness. Do a kindness; do it well; Angels will the story tell. Do a kindness, tell it not; Angel hands will mark the spot. Do a kindness, though no story It may grace, 'twill ring in glory. Do a kindness, though 'tie small, Angel voices sing it ail. Do a kindness, never mind! What you lose the angels find. Do a kindness, small or great, 'Twill come back in double weight. Do a kindness, never fret! No good deed has been lost yet. Do a kindness; do it now Angels know it all, somehow. Do a kindness anytime, Angela weave it into rhyme. Kindly deeds and thoughts and words Bless the world like songs of birds.

Our Story Competition. The prize has been awards d to Lorna Cox, 33 Shelley Avenue,.

Manor Park, for an original story on n The early life of a d.' Other contributors are J. S. W. Heywood, J. W. Jagger, H. Rudeforth, H. Belehaw, Edith Tuddenham, G. W. Dowse, G. Gillett, L. B. Parsonage, E. Parsonage, K. Jary, V. R. Vine, H. P. W. Vine, G. P. Goldstraw, R. Caukwell. No name to ' Day in West Park, Hull.' Our Kind Hearts are very clever at writing stories. I wish I had space to print them. Perhaps I may tell you more about them another week.

Welcome to You. 1205 May Naylor, 1206 Frank M. Kelley, 1207 Harold G.

Kelley, 1208 Frank Bray, 1209 Harry Bray 1210 Kathleen I Herbert, 1211 Katie Herbert, 1212 Walter I. Askew, 1213

Charles Andrews, 1214 Fred Slinger, 1215 Stanley Atkinson.

The Drawing Competition. The best three drawings of a ship on the sea are from John

G. Starkey, Derby ; Henry Wigley, Liverpool; Harry Warwick, Luton. The first named has received the pima. The follow-ing are commended, C. Darling, C. Hallett, Elsie Bt'bwer, J H. Atkins, H. Latchen, Fred Stinger, G. Mawson, P. Carter.

Mark letters 'Guild,' and send to Rev. H. 0. H. Richardson.

10 Granville Terrace, Darlington.

Guild of

APRIL 4, 1907

THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. 215

riiR WOMEN and the CENTENARY.

To the Editor of THE PIUMITPT1 METHODIST LEADER.

Sta.—The article of Mr. H. Jeffs on 'Oar Women and the Centenary' has awakened many thoughts, one being the fit-Seas of many of our women to be on Connexional Committees. Now, if ever such a wonderful thing should come to pass, no doubt more thought will be bestowed on the fitness of the Woman for the post than is now given to the fitness of the man. One is tempted to think that manhood qualification is

te only one necessary. But I believe I am right in supposing t the special application required just now is to discuss

what we as women can or might do to help the Centenary Fund. An incident has just come under my notice. Here in the Potteries advantage has been taken of the Centenary to prepare special plaques illustrative of interesting features in qur history. One of our brothers here has undertaken to sell them on commission, and to give all he gets to the Centenary Fund. A recent accident has deprived him of one leg, so that

cannot go round getting orders. One of our girls, a busy y-school teacher, has undertaken to do that part of the work

for him, and is making a most successful commercial traveller its the circuit. This girl and a few others are very clever at knitting lace, and I intend suggesting the holding of an exhi-bition of home-made lace, etc., the proceeds to go to the Cen-tenary Fund.

Why not form a ' Woman's Centenary Guild?' A com-mittee to be formed in each District, with a sub committee in each circuit. There are some women who have both time and ability, and if these could gather round them the girls, who ere clever with their fingers, their tongues, and their pens, and with their help hold public meetings, our own women giving lectures or addresses on the old-time women, or such as Florence Nightingale, which would lead up to nursing and kindred sub-jects, much good might be done. A gigantic bazaar, of course, has its attractions, but newer methods would take better, and bring more profit. If the Centenary efforts result in our women taking active interest in all social service questions, and in realising more fully their power over family, church, and nation, we can afford to forget that we are not to be Seriously regarded as 'The equal of a brother in the church.' We know we can do almost what we will, and so, even as the holy women of our early church did a great work in helping to found the connexion, we will help to worthily celebrate its

entenary. Indeed, we must, for the men cannot do without e.—H. G.

SIR.—The correspondence elicited by Mr. Jeffs' articles is full of interest,. and I doubt not but that willing workers in great numbers will be roused to do their utmost to make our

ntenary a great success. There is a note, however, in some the letters that makes one fear that the ladies of the connex-

i n are beginning to hanker after office, and are in danger of i itating the 'shrieking sisterhood' of another order, who

ve been so prominently before us of late. Primitive Methodism raises no barrier to women entering

into offioe. The position of class leader and local preacher 4 open Jo them just as surely as to the men. The lamentable foct is, that so few women aspire to this work. Were they tokepared to do so, they would be eligible for seats on our Con-! xional Committees and other positions of influence. Our

ters are ever ready and willing to work for bazaars and tea eetings, and to render service in connection with Women's mperanoe Associations and Political Societies. But alas!

hen it comes to the purely spiritual work of the church, t ere is a sad dearth of women workers. This ought not to

1e. The success of the early Methodists was largely due to

t zealous, self-denying labours of its women, and if our aroh is to triumph in the future, its women of to day must

py their example. Ours is the responsibility, but we have s.:,goodly heritage. t Pickering, March 25th. Yours, etc., S. PHILLIPS.

Sta.—The remarks of Mr. Jeffs on ' Our Women and the Centenary' in the Leader of February 28 h are most timely.

thtently womanhood is rising in the nati_m; her value and . are being more widely and justly recognized. If the of ' light and leading' would encourage the influence of

our devoted women, their power would tell on this great Cen-tenary celebration in a way that perhaps could hardly be im-agined. If from to-day our women would give themselves ram than they have done to devotional exercises in the church, there would soon be seen the incoming tide of new life all around us.

In reference to the financial aspect of the Centenary permit me to refer to the Seorboroagh Conference, when I was hon-oured by the Bradford and Halifax District by being chosen as a delegate. Perhaps, Mr. Editor, you will remember my making some observations in the Conference, now voiced by Mr. Jeffs. I surmised in my remarks that the one hundred members of the Centenary Committee were surely not going to pass over the sisterhood of our churches, for though I had no idea of suggest ng that any woman's name be added to that august number, I expressed the hope that this committee would melee our women in their arrangements, and suggest (or allow ue to suggest) lines of work for the raising of the great sum desired.

And now to be practical. We have in many Districts ' Ladies' Missionary ' and Orphanage Committees.' Why not the forthcoming Conference give its instructions to each Dis-trict Committee for the formation of a Ladies District Centen-ary Committee, appointing a lady secretary and a lady treas-urer in each case to work in conjunction with the District Committee ? The District lady secretary could convene the secretary and treasurer of each circuit. Each circuit could have under this District Ladies Centenary Committee its own lady secretary and treasurer, being exofficio members of the District Ladies Centenary Committee, they being nominated by the (moiety meeting appointed by the circuit. If the

Comm ttee secretaries were to draft a scheme and submit it to the next meeting of their committee, and it passed through the District Meetings, the Conference at Leicester could ap-point the Ladies Committee and the two names of the secre-tary and treasurer of each District could appear in the Confer-ence Minutes of 1907, and whilst the organizing secretary (the Rev. G. Armstrong) is tabulatit g the donations 9f the male

members and adherents of our church, our women generally could be working, using their talent, time and skill, which could lead up to a greet Centenary hazier.

As to its practical working. I should suggest that each Dis-trict have oue, the bazaar being hold in sown central place or placee. As an illustration, suppose the seven Bra -ford irouits held a large ba. aar in the Spring of 19U9. Thie effort is tabu-lated as to results, and mosey forwarded through the proper District's channel. The remainder of the articles could be sent to augment Halifax bazar, supposing the three Halifax and c ntigtious circuits (tv- bring from now) had i is bazaar a week or month later; then what is left from this effort could be r ent to say, the Keighley bazaar, which could include Bing-ley, Sileden, and other near circuits. Then Burnley, inc'uding Colne, could follow. Thus the four centres of tris District, hating held its Bradford and Halifax District Bazaar—and each District in our Church similarly—what was then left in the various Diitriets might be sent to one great centre as London or Hull, for the final Centenary bazaar, and thus the whole church's effort of womanhood on these lints would reach a very noble sum. This is what I had in my mind when I spoke at the Conference on behalf of the valuable services which the thousands of our women could render. Even the poorest woman could thus show her love for our church and its welfare in such a Centenary Bazaar. To obviate the diffi-culty which our keen brethren will see on reading these lines, re three-fifths retained by circuits, I would suggest the whole of the ladies' bazaar effort be for connexional funds, or one or two of them that are in the greatest need.

Let the women of our church rise to this great occasion, and say, with the history of a victorious past, with the pr s-cut enjoyment of the divine but Being, with the eye of the Christian tv, rid fixed on us at this important crisis, and with the possibilities of what a quarter of a million of money could do for our churches, we will at once begin to pray, work, give and beg for this great Centenary effort, which shall be worthy of ue as a redeemed, illumined, and consecrated sisterhood.

Yours, etc., Hester Jane (Mrs. Alfred) Jones. Victoria Road, Knighton.

National Free Church Council.

Tug first meeting of the new committee of the National Council of the Evangelical Free Churches, elected at Leeds, was held at the Memorial Hall, London, E C. Dr. J. Bendel Harris, President of the Council, occupied the chair.

The Committee elected by oo-optation the following minis-ters and laymen:—Rev. II. Elvet Lewis, M.A , London (Con-gregational); Rev. J. M. G. Owen, Birmingham (Baptist); Rev. Thomas Williams, B.A., Aberystwyth (Baptist); Rev, W. Hodson Smith, New Quay (Wesleyan); Rev. James Pickett, London (Primitive Methodist); Rev. G. A. Johnston Rose, M.A., Cambridge (Presbyterian); Rev. Dr. John Wat-son, Liverpool (Presbyterian); Rev. J. Glyn Milieu, Newport, Mon. (Calvanistic Methodist); Rev. George Eayrs, F.R.H.S., Batley (Methodist New Connexion); Mr. Arthur Dann, North-ampton (Friend); Mr. W. H. Brown, London (Congregational); Mr. A. E. Hutton, M.P., Leeds (Cot gregational); Dr. Hodg-son, Crewe (Baptist); Mr. Moses A kinson, Leeds ( We. ale} an); Mr. N. W. Heinle, M.P.. , Lancaster (Wesleyan); Mr. E. C. Rawlings, London (Primitive Methodist); Mr. W. B. Luke, J.P., London (Bible Christian); Mr. Herbert Lewis M.P., London (Cavinietic Methodist); Mr. W. Brimelow, J.P., Bol-ton (Independent Methodist).

The following sub-committees were also appointed:-1, Finance; 2, Publication; 3, Organising; 4, Temperance; 5. Legal; 6, Social Questions; 7, Girls' Guild; 8, Education; 9, Continental Services; 10, Election Campaign; 11, Young Free Churchmen's Auxilliary ; 12, Missionary ; 13, Summer School.

The president, Dr. J. Rendal Harris; the ex-president, Rev. J. Scott Liclgett, M.A.; the Chairman of Finance Committee, Mr. J. Compton Itickett, M.P., D.L., and the Secretary, Rev. Thos. Law, are ex-ollicio members of all Committees.

It was decided that a deputation should almost immediately wait upon Mr. R. McKenna, M.P., the Minister for Education respecting the Education Bill now before Parliament.

A deputation will also wait upon Sir Edward Grey with reference to the Congo.

Dr. Horton on Inspiration.

' Inaviratton and the Bible.' By Dr. R. P. Horton. Fisher Unwin. is. net-

NEAnLY twenty years ago we read the first edition of this book with surprise and pleasure. In those days we were somewhat startled by its statements, but yet wonderfully helped by its conclusiene. We are, therefore, glad to find that an eighth edition is caled for, and are still more glad that the publisher has isilled it iu a popular edition. We could desire nothing better thau that this edition should fall into the hands of our young people, and be road and re-read by them. Dr. Horton reminds us that many changes have taken place since the book was first written—that the heresy of yesterday has become the truism of to-day ; that the critical positions known only to the few twenty years cgo are common to the many now, and possibly this accounts for much of the religious restlessness of the age. Thus the new edition is timely. When first issued it was fiercely assailed as a piece of destructive criticism, but it has long since been recognised that Dr. Horton rendered true eer-vice to the Christian Church by showing that our views of in-spiration might change, but our love for the Inspired Beek remain as great as ever. Dr. Horton calmly faced the facts of Biblical criticism without any loss of reverence or love for the I3i, le, but v. jilt a deeper reverence and a deeper love ' The Bible means mere, aid not less, to men cc lieu they have allow ed all truth of science and history, of thought and experience, to play freely upon it.' Db.carciing the mechanical theory of in-spiration, Dr. Horton p, tuts out that 'we call our Bible in. spired because by reading it arid studying it we can find our way to G, d; we can find what is His will for us, and how we are to carry out His will.' We heat Lily welcome this book, and commend it especially to the young people of our aura.— 11 A. W.

CENTENARY CELEBRATION PROGRESS.

By Rev. George Armstrong.

Tut work of organisation goes steadily forward, and every day brings evidence of deepening interest on the part of officials and mem, era. I have spent a few days in the Devon and Cornwall District, one of the smallest, and probably one of the least wealthy of the districts, and yet even there, while there are special ditlicu ti e, and some hesitation in the minds of a few, yet without exception all declare that the very beet that is pJesible for them to do shall be done. There are pro-jects maturing in other quarters which will help to put failure and pessimism out of our vocabulary.

I cannot make any disclosure as yet, but our people may rest assured that great things are ahead of ue, and our earnest hope and expectation is that every member of our church will ere long begin to feel that it will be a great affront and a deep disappointment if they are not allowed the opportu-nity of making some contribution to the monument we are going to build to the glory of God and the memory of a mighty past. I have two items of interest to record; first, Rev. J. Ashmead, of New South Wales, writes me to say that he hopes to visit this country after 50 years' absence, and will arrive some time in May. He purposes, as opportunity offers, to take preaching appo'ntments and give lectures on Australian reminiscences, descriptions of the country, land laws, emigration, etc. Some part of the proceeds lie intends to give to the Centenary Fund. Applications for his services should be addressed, care of Mr. C. Maslin, Wootton Bassett, Wiltshire. Second, I have the offer of a complete set of the ' Christian Ambassador and Review ' from the beginning to 1897-39 vole. in all. If these can be sold the Centenary Fund will be benefitted to the extent of the whole amount realised. The vole. are important because they will furnish the student with a picture of the intellectual development of our church during the last 50 years. For this purpose they would make a fitting addition to the library of the Hartley College, and I would be glad to hear from any generous friend desirous of becoming the purchaser. They are strongly bound, and in first class condition.

I have frequent enquiries about the collecting books and boxes, and will take this opportunity of stating that the order for both has been placed with the Book-room, and circuits are desired to ask for what they need to be sent in the monthly parcel. The books for the circuit and district officers are being prepared, and will be ready before Conference.

London P.M. Women's Foreign Missionary Society.

ON Wednesday afternoon, March 20th, a Drawing Room Mis-sionary Meeting was held at Mrs. F. H. Hurd's, Acacia House, Willoughby Lane, Tottenham, on behalf of the above Society. It was a day of bright sunshine, and between 60 and 70 friends from all parts spent a happy (line together. The President of the meeting was Mre. Ritson, wife of our Connexional Editor, the Vice-President was Miss Mitchell, only daughter of the Church Extension Fund Secretary. The Rev. T. J. Gladwin genially introduced the lady President, who most efficiently discharged the duties and delivered a brief but ap-propriate address. Miss Mitchell was also felicitous in the re-marks she made in sustaining her position as Vice President.

Mrs. Burnett Smith (Annie S. Swan) had kindly promised to be the speaker in the afternoon, but was unable to attend in consequence of a sudd, n illness, which confined her to her bed-room. This was a great disappointment to all present, but their sympathy with the sufferer far outweighed the dis-appointment, and expressions for her speedy restoration were geueral.

The Rev. Joseph Ritson, the connexional Editor, was fortu-nately present, and most ably filled the position Mrs. Burnett Smith should have taken. His knowledge of our Missionary Society and its work, ete.ecially in the foreign field, was re-vealed in an address at once interesting and well adapted to the meeting. Ti e friends present freely expressed their appreciation of the able manner in which Mr. Ritson filled the position he had so kindly undertaken.

Hearty votes of thanks were moved to the ladies presiding, and to Mr. Rilsou, by the President of the Ladies' Missionary Association, other lady officere heartily supporting the resolu-tion. The collection tailor up realized a total of £610s., whit wee considered satisfactory in the interests of the society.

In a letter received by the hostess of the meeting from Mre. Burnett Smith, in which she expressed her thanks for the sympathy of those present at the meeting iu tier illness, she says, I take the earliest opportunity of telling you how greatly cheered I wits by your kind letter. . . . This is the fist tin a in a public life of nearly twenty years that I have failed to appear. It is dreadful to have to disappoint people. . . . It is astonishing what can happen in a few days.'

Newcastle-on-Tyne Second Maple Street Church anniversary was celebrated on Good Friday and Easter Sunday, the preacher for the occasion being Lonnie Dennis, the thirteen-year old American bi y evangelist. On Friday afternoon and night the chapel was packed to overflowing Sunday morning and afternoon again saw crowded congregations, and on Sunday night, in add.ten to a crowded clutch, an ocei flow mooing was held in the sell( olri stn. 3 et nuLdrecls were unable to gain admittance to either church or scla olroc m. Only in leeks is Lonnie Dennis a boy; his manners and gesticulations are those of an experi-enced preacher. Never before in the memory cf our oldest members has this church witnessed such crowds at itaservicee. The meetings were rich in spiritual power, and several young men and women came forward seeking the new life. 'The financial proceeds were more than double those of last year.

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THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. APRIL 4, 1907

The Glorious Sunshine is a charming harbinger of Spring and

Summer, and recent days reveal the worn and shabby aspect of our clothing, and the need for replenishment is imperative.

We have claims upon your attention by the length of our service and the acknowledged value we give that merit your consider-ation, and we now only ask that we may

forward you our Spring Samples for in-spection. You can send us an order if you like afterwards. If not, no harm will be done, and you will at least have got use-ful information.

We have hundreds of unsolicited testi-monies from all parts and all classes. We, like the air, cater for all, and please most. Send for Samples before ordering anyway.

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APRIL 4, 1907

THE PRI1VIITIVt METHODIST LEADER.. 217

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The Primitive Methodist Leader. IMEREPORAETEM THE PRIMITIVE KETEODEIT.'

THURSDAY, APRIL 4, Mott.

tie PETER AND JUDE.*

By Prof. A. S. Peake, M.A., B.D.

A raw Commentary by Dr. J. B. Mayor is skyey sure of a warm welcome from students of the New Testament. The wide range of his learning and the accuracy of his soholarship are displayed in his Commentary on lames which is our standard work on that Epistle in English. The edition of the Seventh Book of the Stroinateis of Clement of Alexandria, which is published under his name and that of Dr. Hort, is also a very learned work of whioh the lion's share is due to him. He is not un-familiar with modern Continental criticism, though he exhibits considerable impatience with it, thinking that positions to which Lightfoot had given in his adhesion were firmly established. This attitude is now getting old-fashioned since the problems seem to be more diffi-milt and complex in many oases than was perhaps real-ised a quarter of s century ago, and even among those who accept Lightfoot's general critical standpoint there is very considerable recoil in detail. For example on the locality of the Galatian Churches, on the position of Galatians and Philippians relative to the rest of the Pauline Epistles, on the nature of the Colossian heresy, there is a marked tendency among British scholars to desert the positions which Lightfoot's advocacy had made fashionable among English scholars, and the general critical drift shows signs of a much less con-servative oharacter than marked his treatment of New Testament problems. It is necessary for us, however, to keep in mind that Dr. Mayor is to be counted dis-tinctly with the defenders of tradition.

Anyone accordingly who is familiar with his general standpoint will take up his new Commentary on II. Peter and Jude with considerable curiosity. For it is notorious that the Second Epistle of Peter is the one book in the New Testament whose genuineness many of the most strenuous conservatives have found it diffi-cult to defend. Its attestation in early Christian litera-ture is very late, Origen in the third century being the first to mention it, and apparently with doubt as to its authenticity. Eusebius tells us that be had not receiv-ed it as canonical. It is of course a very extraordinary thing if the Epistle is genuine that it should be first mentioned so late in Christian history, and that Ease-bins should tell no that the tradition he had received was unfavourable to its canonicity. This is all the more remarkable when we remember that it was not to an obscure apostle or to a non-apostolic writer that the work was attributed, but to one who was at the time universally regarded as the chief of the Apostles, whose lightest word would be regarded with reverence. There were other writings besides the two Epistles attributed to him to which Peter's name was attached, notably the Apocalypse of Peter. These, however, were not ulti-mately included by the Church in its Canon, a fact for which we may be profoundly grateful. Yet the Apo-calypse of Peter oomes to us with better attestation of authenticity from the Early Church than the Second Epistle.

The suspicions created by the lateness of the external evidence and the dubiousness with whioh it is expressed are confirmed by the internal evidence. In the first place the Epistle brings before us a time when through long delay the hope of the Second Coming had grown faint. There were mockers asking, ' Where is the prom-ise of his coming ? For, from the day that the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.' It is extremely difficult to believe that such a sentence as this could have been written by the Apostle Peter. He was himself one of the Fathers on whose age the writer looked back as to a • The Epistle of St. Jude and the-Second Epistle of St. Peter.'

GreeleText. with Introduction, Note.. end Comments. by Joseph B. M.Yoe. M.A., Litt D.. London: Macmlilan dc Co.. 1907. Price :4s, nett.

AMAPA past. Nor is it probable that in his time the hope in the second coming should have given place to scepticism. It is true that the author speaks in the future tense, but s consideration of the whole passage leads to the conclusion that he is dealing with a state of things which either actually confronts him or which he expecte in the inn:India% future. in the nett place the anthot.'s tetetelice to the Epistles of Paul are also Very Strange in the time of Peter. They are spoken of es it a oolledtion of them bad ben formed, they had already been the eub)ebt of considerable misinterpretation. What is most remarkable of all is that they are already spoken of as Scripture. Further we have the relation of the Epistle to Jude. It is true that this is a question on which 'cholera are somewhat divided, yet it is very improbable that Jude has copied tI. Peter. When we put the two Epistles side by side we have stony reason fOr adopting the opposite Oonclueion. tt is in the first plebe onrious that if II. Peter were the earlier, Jude should have contented himself with extracting simply the seotion against the false teachers. But apart from this general improbability, when we oome to place the two dog:laments side by side and test them, it is generally easy, as Dr. Mayor says, to explain why the author of II. Peter has altered Jude, but it is not easy to see why if Jude had II. Peter before him he should have altered his original to the form that we find in his Epistle. Now it is quite true that there is no reason why the Apostle Peter should not have borrowed from Jude. The first Epistle of Peter shows very "striking traces of the influence of the Pauline Epistles, especially of Romans and Epheiriane, and Peter impresses one as a very receptive personality, so that in itself we need feel no insurmountable objection to the view that he should have borrowed from Jude. At the same time, there is force in the remark of Dr. Adeney in the admirable Biblical Introduotion written by him-self and Prof. Bennett: 'It is one thing to lean upon Paul, and even James, and another thing to absorb and utilise virtually the whole of the short Epistle of so ob-scure a writer as Jude. In defending the genuineness of II. Peter, we accuse the great Apostle Peter of plagi-arising in a remarkable way.' And quite apart from this, there is the serious question whether we can bring back the date of Jude into the life-time of Peter. If not, a work which has been based upon Jude cannot have been written by the Apostle Peter. We cannot build with any certainty on the opinion that the author of the Second Epistle used Josephus, which if correct would preclude the Petrine authorship. The oomparison between the two Epistles ascribed to Peter leads also to an unfav-ourable result. Spitta, who is one of the most vigorous and ingenious defenders of the authenticity of II. Peter and its priority to Jude, is quite convinced that identity of authorship cannot be claimed for the two Epistles, accordingly he rescues II. Peter by surrendering the au-thentioity of I. Peter. With these arguments in mind, it will not seem wonderful that the doubts which were so widely entertained in the Early Church revived again at the Reformation, and that a large number of scholars in the conservative as well as in the critical camp have definitely set aside the ascription of the Second Epistle to Peter. It is, however, an interesting fact that Dr. Bigg has defended the genuineness of the Epistle in the International Critical Commentary, and Zahn has done the same in his learned Introduction to the New Testa-ment.

Accordingly I opened Dr. Mayor's Commentary with much curiosity, knowing his general adhesion to tradi-tional views, and having the example cf Dr. Bigg before me, I wondered whether he would set himself against the general stream of opinion in this respect. He tells us frankly in his Preface that at the beginning of his work, while he was aware of the general weakness attaching to the canonical position of II. Peter as compared with other New Testament Books, he was not satisfied that positive evidence had been adduced of such a character as to set aside the traditional view. Consideration, however, of the language, matter, and tone of the two Epistles forced him to the conviction that they could not come from the same hand; that ie, that the second Epietle was spurious. This position is enforced with a wealth of evidence both in the introduction and in the very elaborate and schol-arly notes. At the same time, the editor has a high opinion of the value of the Epistle, and thinks that its exclusion from the New Testament would involve a much more serious loss than the exclusion of Jude, whioh he takes to be genuine.

The problem raised by the Second Epistle of Peter is one of singular interest and impartance. We have in

our New Testament an Epistle which was not received as canonical till a late period in the Church's history. Our chief authority on Early Church History, Eusebius, explicitly tells us that in the tradition he had reoeived it was not regarded as canonical. In the judgment of the best scholars, including many who Are quite orthodoi; the oharacteristice of the F.pistle condemn A as spuriotid. The stateineut in the thirty-nine Articles on the New 'testament Canon has, apparently, a studied vagueness ; the compilers do not take the responsibility of giving a list of works that they regard as canonical. In what sense must we decide the question ? How far are We to accept the judgment of the later Councils as binding upon us ? and if on:their authority we hold fast to the canon-ioity of the Apistlei are we prepared to apply that oiple to (Abet matters where the Councils laid down re; gulations froin which we should nathrally incline to die= sent? It is no part of my purpose to suggest any answer to these questions, I simply wish to point but that they are there, and that the problems kaised eben by so simple s matter as the canonicity of this small Epistle are problems of a far-reaching character which call for con-siderable oars and caution.

It only remains to say that Dr. Mayor's Commentary fulfils the high expectations created by his earlier works. On two such tiny serape of ancient writing it seems almost disproportionate to lavish a book of more than four hundred pages. But the Epistles are in many res-pects very difficult, and in elaborate Commentary is needed for an adequate discussion. The notes are °ram-med with learned matter, questions of grammar and style, of exegesis and criticism being very fully discussed, and many parallels being included from Greek authori. In addition to the notes, the author inolaes an import- ant paraphrase and comments. The introduction em-braces much philological matter in addition to the critical investigation. There is also at the end a most valuable index of Greek words which might really be almost better called a concordance to the two Epistles. It should be added that the volume is not intended for those who have no familiarity with Greek, though even they would find much that is useful in it.

Current Events. By Robert Hind.

THE financial year ended on March National 31st, and the revenue and eEpendi. Finances. ture for the year have already been

published, the revenue being £144,800,000, and the expenditure £139,500,000, so that the surplus is £5,314,000. This last amount will go to the reduction of the National Debt, and when it has been added to the amount provided for the same purpose by the sinking fund, it will be seen that the debt will undergo a very substantial reduction, say about fifteen millions. This will do good in various ways. First of all it will go some way towards reliev-ing the Money Market, and thus help trade, a result greatly needed. It may bring about a rise in the price of console in the not distant future. At all events, it will assure those of us who believe that a large reduc-tion of the National Debt would contribute vastly more to the national security than a huge army and navy that we are at last started on the way towards health and soundness. The principal increase in the Revenue comes from estate duties which have yielded £1,200,000 more than was estimated. There is an item of increase that we could very well have done without, that is £130,000 from the Excise. From this branch of reve-nue alone over thirty millions has been collected dur-ing the year. The surplus is not entirely the outcome of increased revenue, only £2,059,000 is accounted for in this way, whilst the expenditure has been £3,305,000 less than the estimates. This is an exceedingly pleasing item in the accounts. Tory governments, including the last, and, indeed, the last was the greatest sinner of all, have not usually been able to avoid exceeding their estimated expenditure, and the fact that this order of things has been reversed certainly shows an improve-ment in the strength of the heads of the departments under the new Government. As our readers know, we are not satisfied with what has been done up to the present time in this regard. Vastly more ought to. have been saved both on the army and navy, but at all. events we are better off than we should have been un-der Mr. Austen Chamberlain.

WHAT of the coming year ? The. army has to cost £27,760,000 and the navy £81,419,500. Other; items will bring the total estim-

ated expenditure in all probability to over £141,000,000, in otter words, to about two millions more than the! present year. Let it be frankly recognised that two

Budget Prospects.

218 THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. APRIL 4, 1907

great improvements are being effected by the present government which could not have been expected from their predecessors in office :—(1) the services are being made far more efficient, and (2) they are costing less. But considering the manner in which the expenditure was increased under the late government and the de-mand for retrenchment made by the electorate, instead of an increase there should be decreases in the expendi-ture for a long series of years. Unless this takes place it will be impossible to realise the hopes that have been entertained regarding social reform. This will cost money. With the increase in the expenditure Mr. Asquith will not have more than £3,500,000 of a surplus to deal with next year, should he not find some new sources of increase. Some have placed it at a million less than this. He will probably have to spend part of it in lessening the income tax on incomes of less than £1.000, though it is possible that he may make this good and even add to the surplus at his disposal by increasing the tax on very large incomes. There remain the taxes on sugar, coffee and tea. He may either repeal the first two of these and lessen that on teaor leave them as they are for the purpose of starting an Old Age Pensions scheme. And we hope that he will increase the sinking fund. The national debt as it is at the present time is too large and constitutes a grave danger to the country.

PROTECTIONISTS have not by any Protection means lost heart by the blow ad- and Social ministered to their (muse at the

Reform. General Election. They are as busy as ever, and it is not too

much to say that fully three-fourths of the active poli-ticians of the Tory party are at heart whole-hoggers, and, should they ever have the chance, will impose all-round protective duties on imports, whether of raw material or manufactured goods, or food stuffs. To them it would count for little to ruin the huge -3otton trade of Lancashire if only land rents could be increased. And yet one wonders that they think that their self-contra-dictory arguments are likely to be accepted by even the most simple-minded nersons. They hope to win the masses by promising Old Age Pensions and other advan-tages, to be paid for out of the Protective taxes. This in one breath, and in the other they point nut that the exclusion of foreign manufactured goods, like the were of the Potteries, will obtain more work for the British working man. And it never occurs to their minds that sane men will ask where the money from protective taxes is to come from if the foreign goods are excluded ? Surely taxes will not be paid on goods that are prevented from ooming into the country. The raging, tearing pro-paganda of Mr. Chamberlain was not more a case of two and two make five than the arguments of Mr. Boner Law and his friends to-day. Free Traders may be thankful for one remark made by Mr. Law in his recent remark-able speech at Lancashire, and every working man in the oonntry ought to take note of it. He said 'be did not believe that the proposed change in the Fiscal system would tend to raise the level of wages in this country.' Let us hasten to agree with him, and to add that it must greatly increase the cost of living.

As we ventured to predict last Hexham. week, Hexham has been held by

the Liberals, Mr. Holt. a stranger to the constituency, having won the election against Colonel Bates, a local magnate, by the substantial ma-jority of 1,157. The majority is less than at the General Election by 9'8. But it is no secret that it was a great enrprige and disappointment to the supporters of the Unionist candidate, who fully anticipated to have at least a moral if not an actual victory. Instead, the Liberal is returned by nearly three times the normal Liberal majority. It is a Liberal seat, though in 1892 the Conservative was returned by a majority of 82, by what methods the netition trial which unseated the member revealed. " In 1893 the Liberal majority was 446; in 1895, 435; in 1900, 186. The last named was abnormal on account of the South African war. It may be pointed out that a Government with so huge a majority might be expected, in the ordinary course of events, to lose seats heavily at bye-elections. Bnt the present Government, which has been in power fifteen months, has lost only two seats, Cockermmith and Brigg, although there have been bye-elections in fifteen con-stituenoes where Liberal members were returned at the General Election. Cockermouth itself can hardly be taken into the account because at the bye-election there was a three-cornered fight. At the same time it is well to recognise that even in a constituency like Hexham, where the electorate is made up of singularly intelligent and thoughtful men, the Liberal tide is not running quite so strongly as in 1906. The Government would gain if it adopted a bolder policy, both with regard to education, retrenchment, and the House of Lords.

THERE were those who hoped that Rule of the

inasmuch as a Liberal Govern- Moderates. ment is in power at St. Stephen's

the majority in the London County Council would be prevented from working as much mischief as it was in their hearts to do; but already they are showing their temper. The progressives had on their General Powers Bill a provision for securing that the

milk sold to the people should be made es free from in-fectious disease as it could by some precautions that ordinary people would regard as absolutely necessary, but the moderates have resolved to have these provisions removed. Tn show the character of the provisions one may be named—to prevent the milking of cows by per-sons with infectious diseases. Some tram lines have already been abandoned. If the majority continue their Policy they will ensure the reign of the progressives for another twenty years after the next election.

HORACE GEORGE RAYNER, the mur. Rayner derer of Mr. Whiteley, has been re-

Reprieved. grieved. Petitions with hundreds of thousands of signatures were

being prepared for the Home Office praying that the death penalty might not be carried out. No doubt be-hind the agitation there was not only a vast amount of sympathy, but some real reasoning. Belonging as we do to the section who regard capital punishment both as morally wrong and as impolitic, we rejoice in the de-cision of the Home Secretary on these general grounds. In addition, there is the special reason in this case that in all probability had the sentence been carried out, others besides the culprit would have lost their lives. For the culprit himself it is impossible to discover ex-tenuating circumstances for his awful crime, and yet to bim one cannot fail to extend a feeling of pity. At all events the question forces itself on one's attention as to whether it is not time that England followed the ex-ample of Italy, Switzerland. Holland, and some other European countries, and abolished capital punishment.

SOME thousands of peasants in The Rising

Roumania, driven to desperation in Roumania. by the poverty and hardship of

their lot, have risen in rebellion against the existing order. There has been anarchy, riot, incendiarvism, and not a little bloodshed. Villages have been sacked, country houses and farmsteads pil-laged and destroyed, and many people have been killed. The military have been called out, and in some instances have fired on the rioters. The latest news is to the effect that the rising for the moment has been quelled. The economic results, however, are likely to prove serious even to the land owners, and hitherto well-to-do farmers, whose cattle have been driven off, and their granaries emptied. That there should have been a rising is not at all remarkable. It is said the peasantry are among the poorest in any country in Europe, and that the land owners are amongst the most oppressive. The land laws, too, are of the worst kind possible, so that tenants as well as labourers are made to feel the weight of the oppressor's hand till it is almost unbearable.

PARLIAMENTARY NOTES.

By J. S. Higham, M.P.

TEE subject of 'Women's Suffrege' has been very much buffeted about this last few weeks, end the forms of the House certainly lend themselves to the sort of obetruo-tion of which it has been the victim. When Mr. Dick-enson's Bill failed to find sufficient time to obtain a Second Reading. a resolution was put down, so that at any rate there might he further discussion, and perhaps a division. Wednesday night last was won in the Bal-lot. But by a rule of the Home no 'resolution,' even having won a night, can be diecuseed if the same sub-ject be on the Orders of the House in the shape of a Bill. Further, no Bill once on the Orders can be dis-charged if a single member blocks its discharge. Mr. Dickenenn's Bill was kent on in the faint hope of mak-ing further progress. On Monday right he tried to withdraw it, but was 'objected to.' BY this alone the Wednesday resolution was killed. To make the matter worse another member introduced another Bill on the same subject, and then all hopes were gone. and mem-bers who had decided to stay late gave up the idea, and the exodus began.

The question of 'Rural Depopulation, Small Hold-ings, and Honeing' has had a misfortune of the same kind as the Suffrage question. Here again a Bill was placed upon the orders,' end the proposed discussion was stopped. Tn the last Parliament the Liberals were everlastingly bringing forward for debate subjects which were unpleasant to the Tory Government or provoca-tive of discussion in the ranks of the Tory party. In 1904 and 1905 the average Tory member bad risen to the occasion and found out the advantage of blocking motions,' so we had at the very beginning of each ses-sion scores of Tory M.P.s putting on the notice paper the words of 'Notices of motion' to be introduced—as they put it—on a future day, but which as a matter of fact they never intended to proceed with at all. A pro-posed motion stooped the Liberals from moving any adjournment on that subject. A proposed Bill stopped the Liberals from proposing any motion for discussion on that subject. It was an abuse of the forms of the House then, and so it is to-day. But it serves its

and it is used. The first stage of Parliamentary progress for 1907

came to an end on Wednesday last, and the parties are recuperating for ten days preparatory to running the

second heat. In the Liberal ranks there is just the same feeling of disappointment about legislative pro. gress as there was at Easter last year, but the outlook this year is not near so hopeful as last. We fear that a great amount of time is going to be spent on the Army Bill, and we are not at all enthusiasio about that measure. Witb a big Budget, with Ireland waiting, with Licensing Reform, and with Housing Legislation, the whole year, including an autumn session, would be fully occupied, and we hate the idea that Army matters should both waste money and take away the time re-quired for Social Legislation. There are members who say we shall get passed neither the Licensing Bill, nor the Irish Bill this year, that permanent officials are being allowed too much away, and that the Cabinet is not firm enough. Events will show.

LEGAL, GENERAL, AND SOCIAL

AU communications for this column should be addressed to Hamm:norm. 8 Gunnersbnry Avenue, Ealing Common. W.

'FREE SEATS.'—All the chapels in our village have free seats, but our trustees insist upon letting seats. The debt on the place is a mere trifle, and the majority of the Society desire the seats to be free. What can the leaders do ?

In the first place, raise the money to pay off the debt, and let the society pass a resolution asking the trustees to reserve as many free seats as possible, and probably they may see their way to have all free seats. If the chapel is held on the Model Trust Deed, the attention of the trustees should be call-ed to sec. 43, under which they get their power to let pews, and they are bound under that section to reserve free seats for the poor where and as many as may be thought necessary and expedient.

' L. L. L.'—What can he done to prevent the audience in a chapel being annoyed by persons throwing about pepper, snuff, or other dust with a view of causing persons to cough or sneeze?

Such persons are guilty of indecent behaviour, and any per-son who so disturbs any duly authorised minister is liable to a penalty not exceeding £6 or two months imprisonment. Proper steps should be taken to secure evidence of the behaviour, and also the names and addresses of the parties, and a commons thereupon be taken out against the person guilty of the be-havionr before the magistrates, which would probably effec-tually stop it. Take care to use that the chapel is duly regis-tered before acting. If it is not, get it registered.

' J. 8 '—What steps should be token to secure a Free Church burial ground The nearest burial ground is three miles off .

There is nothing to prevent the Free Churchmen of the dis-trict buying a piece of land and putting it in trust for burials, but they must take care that it is at least 200 yards from any dwelling house It would be well, however, before doing this, to see whether the Parish Council could not be moved to pro-vide such a ground. Even if the Council refused to do it, they might be willing if the land were presented to undertake the management and upkeep, which would no doubt be mainly covered by the fees which would be charged for interments.

P. M.'—Can a Society Mteting appoint a local preacher to conduct a sacramental screws when there are two ministers in the circuit ?

As a matter of courtesy the sacrament is usually left to the ministers, but they have no special right. Every minister in our church is a layman, and a local preacher who is appointed by a quarterly meeting has just as notch right to administer the sacrament as a travelling preacher. The idea which ex-ists in some quarters that the sacrament must be given by a minister is a part of the old superstition eurtounding the priestly office.

'PASgIVE RESISTER.'—If the chairman and vice-chairman of a Board of Guardians are magistrates. can they legally act in the adjudication of cases connected with the sates if the Union cf which they are officers?

I think that if the question were pressed, they would he held to he interested parties, and therefore not entitled to ad-judicate in their own caves.

'FL ALWAys.'—If an appointment of new trustees under Fowler's Act is executed at a trustees' meeting. and not at the quarterly meeting. but re sinned at the quarterly meeting several dans afterwards, is the appointment valid?

If the property be made under the Model Deed, and the quarterly meeting has really exercised its power of appointing, and directed its chairman to execute the appointment, the re-execution of the document which had been prepared before-hand, and improperly executed some days before, would make it an effective appointment; but everything depends upon the facts, and whether the proper steps were taken in regard to the meeting and nominations; and these you have not stated fully. 0. B.'—A. is a seat holder in one of our churches. B. is

a stranger who without ptrmission enters A.'s pew. A. orders him out and when he r•fases to go, threatens to fetch a police-man. Eviteually the caretaker ages B. to retire to another pew. This B. refuses to do and leaves the church altogether. Was A. within his legal rights?

The question is one of some difficulty, but I think be was not. If the chapel be duly registered, I am inclined to think if a charge had been made against him of disturbing the minister during Divine service. he would have been liable to have been punished. A. should have waited until the service was over, and then have spoken to B. on the subject.

`JOSEPHIJS.'— Is a water company entitled to compute the water rate on its own assessment or is it bound to adopt the actual amount at which the premises are assessed for property tax?

Unless there he some special Act regulating the Water Company in qnegtion, the assessment for water is on the annual value. it is not hound by the assessment for property tax, although that is a good guide to the Company in deciding it. The annual value means the net annual value an defined in the Parochial Assessment Art,1835, t hat is, the rent of which the premises might reasonably be expected to let from year to year free of all usual tenants' rates and taxes and tithe com-mutation charge, if any, and deducting therefrom the probable average annual cost of the repairs, insurance, and other ex-penses, if any, necessary to maintain thcaa in a elate to com-mand such rent.

APRIL 4,1907

THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. 219

Primitive Methodist Magazines for April.

AGAIII the Editor has net before us a richly laden table. Here is food to snit all palates, and a banquet of good things for both yonng and old. The menu' is a long one, and full of all varieties of 'strong meat' and of dainty tit bits and sweets. From the first page to the last the Alderfigate is qnite equal to its predecessor of 1907, and this is high praise indeed. The Christian Messenger brings a live, fresh meeseee. It contains interesting articles about New Chnrches, Veteran Workers, 'Spoiled Prayers," College Days," Sideights on Free ()haul History," Sermon Germs,' etc , eto. To local preach-ers the Messenger is indispensable. Springtime offers eng. gender° Talks on the Topics' for C.E. meetings, a farther instalment of 'John Manifold," Men who Lead," The Dawn of Genius," School of Citizenship," Talks on Talking," The Mirror. of Nature,' some excellent short stories, and the' Read-ing Union,' all by experts. And these items do not exhaust the 'bill of fare' by far. The excellence of the Sunday -School Journal is warranted by the names of the writers. A number of our ablest men are herein serving our great host of teachers month by month with their very beet. • Morning is bright as ever. Just the thing for the boys and girls who desire exciting incident, valnahle information, and wipe conn- ed. The Child's Friend is full of pictures, brief aerie., and merry little rhymes. The little ones must he pleased with it. All who desire to improve their mirde and hearts should take some or all, of them Centenary information is already plen-tiful is them, and will become more so as the year advances. Hand in your orders at once.

Church Extension Fund.

To ad Editor of THE PRIMITIVE MITHODIBT LEADER. Hasa Sts.-Please permit acknowledgment of the follow-

ing amounts received for this fund since last report: Grants from trust funds:-Forest Gate, London, £1; Coalville circuit (Heather 2s 6d, Swannington 5e, Markfield), 12e 6d; Water-head, Oldham Second, £1 Is; Brighnuse, 10s; Shildon circuit

CShildon 5s, New Shildon 10s, Close House 5e Leasington 5s, amden Gate 2s 6d), £1 2s 6d; Shildon Road Mission collec-

tion. 105; Norfolk Road, Bournemouth, 10s; Quarry Bank, £1 ls; Heckmondwike, 10s; Askam, Dalton, 2s 6d; Boccie. circuit (Beccles 5s, Bungay Is, St. Lawrence ls. Weethall ls, Wood-ton Is), 9s; Portland oirouit (Portland 5s, Weston 5s). 10s; High Street, Winsford, 109; Ampleforth, Helmsley, 2s; Upton Park oircnit (Upton Park 16e 8d, Manor Park be 6d, Connaught Road he 5d), Seven Kings. 14s; £2 2s 7d; Stanton Hill, 5.; Cobden Street, Peterboro, £1 le•

' Motherwell, 10e; Loftus 6s;

Longton, £1 ls; Woodley circuit (Woodley £1, Gee Crow 8s, Grew* Fold, Sc), £1 13e; Wirkeworth, 4e; Middleton, 3s: Bran-atone, Burton Second 2s; Hexharn, 10s; Warden. 60; Rehoboth, Bradford, 55; Old Beckenham, Be; Clacton. £1 Is; Kirby Cross, 5s 6d; Berwick, 5s; Durham Road, Gateshead, £1; Felling, 5s; Crook circuit (Mount Pleasant 2s 6d, Billy Road 2s 6d, Bowden Close 2s 6d, Sunniside 2a 6d, Howden-le-Weir 2s 6d), 12a 6d; Livingstone Hall, Edinborough, 10s 6d; Bennington Hall, Edinborough. 5s; Fountain Road, Hull, £1 Is; Jubilee Drive, Liverpool, 55; Great Horton. Bradford, 10s; Brierfield, Burnley, 5s; Coins Road, Burnley, 2s gd; South Shields circuit (Globe 10s, Tyne Doak 10s, Barring Street 5s, Talbot Road 5s, Marsden Colliery 5s; Bolden Colliery 108), £2 5s; Burnopheld circuit, £1 5s; Searner Road, Scarborough, 10s; Queen's Road, Halifax, £1; Pve Nest, Halifax, 10,; Hitchin, 2s 6d; Clotton, Chester, 5s; Wisbech circuit (Emmett 5s, Guy Nirn 5s, Wiebech St. Mary 5s, Murrow 7s 6d, West Walton 5s, Elm 10s, Marshland Smooth 2s), fl 19s 6d; Ryde circuit (Ryde 10e, Ventuor 5s, Sandewn 10e), £1 5s; Jarrow circuit (Jarrow 5s, Hebburn Colliery 5e, Argyle Street 5s, New Town 5s, Pelaw 5e, Uneworth Colliery 5e; New Washing-ton 5s, Wardley Colliery 5s. Bell Quay 5e, Collo. New Washing-ton 10s), £2 15s; York First (Monkgate 10s, Burton Lane 5s), 15s; Middlesborough circuit (Linthorpe Road 20a, Gilkes Street 20e, North Ormesby 5e, Coils. 30e). £3 15s; Mountain Ash, 5e; Mansfield, Lemning Street, £1 5s; Wood-house, 10e; Pleasby Hill, 9s; Rameor circuit (Stubwood ls, Stanton le), 2s; Glasgow (Park Head 5a.Toll Cross 5s, Blan-tyre 10e, Burnbank 10e, Hamilton 5e), £1 15e; Rose Grove, Burnley, 10s; Dartmouth circuit (Dartmouth 5s, East Ailing-ton 2s Rd, Brixham 2e. 6d), 10s; King's Cross, London, 5s; Lingwood, Norwich, 5e; Talke circuit, Talks. 10s; Butt Lane, 10e; Malden circuit (Malden 45, Althoroe 2s, Burnham 2s, Bradwell 2e, Tillingham 2s, Ostend 2s), 14e. 6d; New Cross, Rotherhithe, 5s; Knight's Hill, Forest Hill, fl ; Woodetone, Peterborough, 6s; Thornley circuit (Horden 6s, Sherburn Hill 5e, Wheatby 2s 6d). 13s. 6d; Walkden circuit (Walkden 42s, Worsley Road 21e, Memorial Road 10s). £3 13a; Normanton circuit (Beckbridge 12e 2d, Hopetown 5s, Altoft 5s, Street-house 28, Wootton 2s, Sway 2e, Landford 2s), 18e; Bridling-ton Quay, £1; Birmingham Third circuit, £1 2s. 6d; Scarbro' First (Gladstone Road 5e, Sulpha 2s. 6d, Cloughton 2s. 6d), 10e; Sands Road, High Wycombe, 5s; Kilburn circuit (Kilburn LI, College Park £1, Willesden El), £3; Grimsby Second cir-cuit (Bethel 18s, Garibaldi Street 10s. Wellington Road 21s, Cleethorpes £3, Beaconthorpe 2s 6d), £5 Ile; Orrell, 5s.

Will the trustees named accept the cordial thanks of the Church Extension Fund Committee for their kindly help in this important work. If all the resources of the connexion could be made available for the extension of the connexion, none can forecast the value of the work that could be done.

Twenty-five per cent. of our chapels are debtless; another twenty-five per cent are in very easy circumstances; a third twenty-five per cent have a little heavier burden, but not each as need prevent them giving valuable help to aggressive work; so that an immense majority of our trust boards might become "live partners in the most promising work of our church. Trusting we may have general co-operation.

Truly yours, T. MITCHELL, Secretary. 16 Mount View Road, London, N.

A CORRICTION.-Your report of Stockport First circuit as having a decrease of 22 is in,orrect. It has 22 members lees t!treaeh the transfer of Didsbary society to Manchester Twelfth ctrenit 0 teir wise it rep arts the eam 3 membership as last year. -X X. Devise.

Funeral of the late Mr. John Hewitson.

Tex funeral of onr brother, Mr. John Hewitson, took place on Monday, March 25th, and the lame number attending spoke volumes as to the respect in which he wee held. The sad procession wan healed by most of the ministers of the Dis-trict and the officials of the Central Church: the streets near the nhorch were lined with people. A tender and beautiful service was held in the Centred Menet', which was crowded The Revs. W. Rowe, J. Welforel, \V. A. French, J. W. Clif-ford. M A., and H. Pratt took part. The address of the Rey. A. T. Glittery will long he, remembered. He sketched the career of our brother, and eloquently portrayed his fine gener-ous character. The brief service at the graveside was taken by the Rev. John Hallam. of Leiceeter.

Of all the interests of Mr. Hewitson'a later years the Orphanage was on his brain and heart next to his church. The General Orphanage Committee was represented at the funeral by Messrs. J. Shepherd, B. Haswell. and A. Chippire dale. He did a good ' day's work' for his Lord. and we are sure that he has now received the labourer's great reward.

Funeral of the late Mrs. Hind.

(be Wednesday last the funeral of Mrs. Hind, wife of Rev. 0 Hind, of Hell, took place at Norwich. A large number of mourners assembled in Dereham Rnad chapel. The service was eondnoted by Revs. G P. Clarke, W. A. Hammond, .1 W. Venablee. A. Lane, and A. Smith. At the grave Rev. W. A. Hammond read the committal service mud Rev. G. P. Clarke closed with prayer A large number of beautiful wreaths testified to the respect and affection in which the deceased was held. those from the West Street, Jubilee and Ebenezer churches in Hull being specially expressive. Much sympathy is felt with Mr. Hind in his sad bereavement,

Mr. Samuel Mincher.

MR. SAMUEL MINCHEN, the oldest local preacher on the Walsall circuit, passed away on March 20th in his 80th year. In early life he gave himself to God, and at once commenced a career of earnest long life consecration. At the age of 17 be was proposed for the plan, and for over 60 years he preached the Gospel in what is now the Darlaston, Bilston, West Bromwich, Walsall, and other circuits. He was the father of a large family, five eons and five daughters surviving him, two of his sons being in our ministry, viz , Revs. William and Samuel Mincber. Twenty-five years ago he came to reside in Aleck. Walsall, and at once threw himself into all the activities of the church. He was kind and genial, and always put the most charitable construction on the actions of others. The loss ef his wife five years ago was a great blow from which he never rallied, but was patient and trustful to the end and passed away in the calm consciousness of having spent a 1-ng life in the service of sod. He was interred in the Wood Green Cemetery, Wednesbnry, on March 27th, a short service being conducted by the Rev. T. Whitehead in our church, which was attended by a large number of sympathizing friends.

Mr. John Noble.

IN the decease of Brother J. Noble on the 10th inst., in the 50th year of his age, the Canterbury and Whitstable circuit has sustained a loss that is keenly felt and very much regretted. A native of the circuit-being born at Chilham Lees, brought up in its Sunday school, convel ted in young manhood and join-ing the church there, and subsequently engaged for Christly service-he has proved to be a true disciple of Christ, a loyal and devoted worker, as well as a generous and willing sup-porter of the same. Whether in his native place or Shalins. ford Street, or finally Canterbury, he yielded the best, and most of which he was capable to the church of his choice.

Excepting for a few months in last year of residence in Cranbrook, the whole of his life has been lived in the circuit, and his energies expended in its varied interests. The illness so protracted and severe, commenced about a year ago, fol-lowing violent influenza and pneumonia. Last August it was observed that he was failing and very much changed. A period of five weeks iu a London hospital gave no relief, and steadily pain, disease, and weariness precipitated the end of mortal life. He knew the strain of patience, resignation and faith. At times spiritual darkness obtained, but as the end drew on, he emerged into the light of God's countenance, and on Sunday night, towards midnight, he was not, for Gcd bad taken him. A widow (second wife), two young children, and three young men sone are left to mourn their irreparable loss

On the 16th inst, devout men-his lay brethren-carried the mortal remains to burial in Canterbury cemetery. A large and representative company from all parts of the circuit gath-ered to pay respect to departed worth, and to express sym-pathy with those so sorely bereaved. The proceedings were conducted by the Rev. J. Guy, who gave a suitable address, assisted by Rev. F. G. Saville and Mr. 0. Sharpe. H.L.P., prayers being offered by Messrs. Martin and Watson, old friends of the deceased. After singing a suitable hymn around the open grave, the assembly dispersed with the hope of immortal re-union.

Miss Rose Bland. Miss Ross BLAND, of the Great Horton oh urch. Bradford, passed away on February 22nd at the age of 51. Experiencing the j ,y of conversion at the age of eleven, she soon commenced to win others to the Saviour, and subsequently was placed upon the circuit plan. Possessiog great aptitude she gave herself up to the mission work, in which she witnessed great success For seventeen years she was connected with the Bradford Town Mission, regularly visiting the Infirmary, prison cells, and the workhouses. She crowded much service into her life, working tirelessly for the sick and the distressed. Her power in prayer was truly remarkable. She was a bright

happy follower of Jesus. There were many domeetio trials in her life. Her father left the home before she could walk and her mother was her constant charge-a charge she lovingly undertook all through her life. Rose Bland has earned her rest and has left behind a bright example of devotion.

THE PASSING OF AN OLD SAINT.

Mrs. Jane Leeming, of Darlington.

THNIIN has just passed to her reward, at the age of 87, a hum-ble but devoted Christian and Primitive Methodist, who, with no social status or great intellectual powers to aid her, has for years wielded a considerable spiritual influence in the church Jane Leeming appears in her teens to have come under the influence of the Revs Joseph Spoor and Anthony Dent. Removing in 1849 to Darlington, she forthwith joined a society clasp, in the membership of which she remained to the day of her decease. For years she has only been able to attend as she was conveyed in her bath chair, and yet there was no more regular presence in the class meeting and the Christian &idea-your than the old lady with the young heart. Of recent weeks her bed-chamber has been a Bethel to many who have visited her, end the large congregation that gathered in Greenbank church on the day of her interment was a testimony to the power of simple godliness Here was no worship of rank or wealth, but an eloquent, recognition that the woman was a queen because of her character and piety. The service was conducted by the Revs A. Latimer, C. T. Coulbeck,W. Bowe, and R. 0. H. Richardson. the' Dead March' being impres-sively played by Mr. W. Heelop, junior. A touching address was delivered by the Rev A. Latimer, who had known the departed all his ministry. Her surviving children are members and workers in the church of their mother.

West Hartlepool Circuit. In connection with our Grange Road new church a series of very successful 'At Homes' have just been held. The large sohoolroom was most artistically decorated by the youug peo-ple, and capital programmes were provided, interspersed with refreshments. The hosts and hostesses were Mr. and Mrs. Runn who celebrated their silver wedding, the Rev. C. and Mrs. Pettier, and Mr. R. W. and Mrs. Fletcher. The chair-men were Messrs. W. Wiley. William Stubbs, and T. H. Pal-lin. One very interesting feature was the part played by the children, each of whom was provided with a beg containing silver, which was devoted to the funds. Valuable help was rendered by Messrs. J. Smithson, J. Harrison (our esteemed treasurer), and a host of willing workers.

On Thursday evening last a social gathering was held in the school-room of our Hart Road Church, the occasion being to present to Mr. James King, who is leaving the town for Grimsby, a tangible expression of appreciation of his services to the church in the cenacity of local preacher, class leader, society steward, and ' Sunday school superintendent. The Rev. C. Pettier presided, and there was a large attendance. Mr. Pettier briefly referred to the personal character, loyalty, and devotion to duty of our brother. Mr. Newton then pres-ented to Mr. King a spendid gold albert, which ho hoped wold remind him of the affection which it symbolized, a large volume, 'Gems of Thought.' was also presented to Mr. King, and a beautiful copy of the Bible was presented to Master B. King by Mr. Snaith on behalf of the school. Several brethren spoke. and refreshments were kindly provided by Mesdames Holburn, Snaith, Newton. Hodgson, and Woodhouse. Select solos.were rendered by Miss Smith and Mr. Wrapp.

The Faith of a Free Churchman.' By W. C. B. Published by the British and Foreign Unitarian Association. Es. net.

Otis result of the present stir respecting the New Theology has bees that numerous applications have been made for informa-tion concerning the position and beliefs of Unitarians. In re-sponse to such appeals. the Association has issued a small volume entitled, ' The Faith of a Free Cbrrch? The title is somewhat misleading. as there are other Free Churches than the Unitarian. But the title is taken from the first essay by Dr. S. M. Crowthers, which seeks to set forth the Unitarian con-eptien of Christ, God. man, etc. Other essays are by Dr. H. W. Cros.key, on ' The Jesus of the Gospels and of History.' and by Dr. J Ertlin Carpenter on The Church, the Bible, and Free Thought.' There are seven other essays by various writers. Needless to say, these essays are of a high intellectual order, and the eubjecte are reverently dealt with. ' The problem of religion in modern life is described as being an effort to wed the impartial intellect that dares to put all things to the teat, to the steadfast heart that holds fast to that which is good.' This is good, but the expositions will hindly satisfy the stead-feet heart that holds fast to many of the truths which have fed and nourished its religious life. ' Jesus Christ is a man, a son of His country. of His age and race. The doctrine of the sioleseness of Jesus belongs to the realm of ideal faith. You cannot establish it on record, for the record is incomplete. Jesus is not a supreme and absolute authority. The ultimate appeal is to the authority of the mind, and heart, and consci-ence of man. The Bible is used by a Unitarian to eduoate his manhood, and not override it. He denies that the doctrine of the Trinity, the Fall of Man, and the Vicarious Atonement are to be found in any of the statements made by Christ him-self respecting His religion. The Deity of Christ is not a biblical, but an ecclesiastical or theological doctrine? There may be those whose spiritual yearnings are met and satisfied by such conceptions of Jesus Christ and of Christian truth as is presented in this volume; but for ourselves we yearn for a deeper note, and only find rest in St. Paul's conception of Christ's work, ' How that Christ died for our sins, and rose again the third day, according to the Scriptures.'-H. A. W

CIRCUIT RETURNS, MARCH, 1907. Fakenham Circuit.

Members reported to Conference of 1907, 305; to the Confer-en.le of 1906, 300; net increase for year, 5. Delegate to Dis-trict Meeting-Mr. Henry Herring. Minister for 1907-8- William M. Battabee,

A LIQUID FOOD.

220 THE PRIMITIVE Mttl-lobIST LEADER. APRIL 4, 1907

LOCAL CHURCH NEWS. Burnley First.

Bethel church held its anniversary on Sunday. The preacher was the Rev.,Shirley Windram. The chinch *as full ma bath iicaiiione. The sermons were chaste and eloquent. We hid splendid musical services by the Craven Quartette Choir, solos and anthems, assisted by our own choir, conducted by Mr. L. J. Baldwin; organist, Mr. A. Baldwin, who acquitted himself well. The collections were up £13.

Burnley Second. The Elm society had a rare musical treat on Sunday last, the choir anniversary, David Hartley, Esq., of Colne, preached suitable sermons to large congregations. In the afternoon Haydn's ' Creation ' was ably tendered by an augmented choir tinder the capable leaderehip of Mr. John Robinson. The Prin-cipals were ; Soprano, Miss Annie Hall; tenor, Mr. W. H. Rice; base, Mr, Geo: Ditchbtirn, of Manchester Cathedral. Mr. n. Lees, Christian eccialist, presided, and Mt, Ewart Natal was organist. Proceeds £11 10e.

Cainbridge Second. The Centenary prayer for increased spirituality and a return kif the old-time religion has been gloriously answered at Fen Bitten. A ten days' mission, conducted by Mr. W. Bilton, the village evangelist, wds held from March 8rd to 14th, and the power of the Spirit was mightily felt. Night after night souls were saved. The mission closed on Thursday with a faith tea, given by the ladies of the crngregation, and never was such sumptuous fare provided before. This was fol lowed by the miesioner'e life story. The spiritual results will be the means of a reliable increase in the church. The spiri-tual interest awakened proves the mission to be the fore-run-ner of nobler things.

Chesterfield Third. At Whittington Moor, on Sunday, the Sunday school anniver-sary Was held, when sermons were preached in the morning and evening, by Rev. A. Parkin to good congregations. In the afternoon Mrs. Hibbert, of Bradford, conducted the service, and gave an interesting address. Great credit is due to Mis• parker for the excellent conversation by the children, which alit arranged on the Centenary of our church,

barwen. Saturday last was a high day for the scholars an i teachers of Sandhills Sunday schools, being the prize-distributioe. The Rev. J. Maland presided, and the rewards were distributed by Mr. 8. J. Lord. 120 prizes were given to persons who had made 104 early attendances for the year. The books reflected great credit on our Book Room. A splendid lime-light lantern lecture was given on Missionary Life and Experiences in North-West Canada,' by Mr. A. E. Maland, of Bromley, who for three and a half years did excellent work on that great missionary field. On the Sabbath sermons of special interest and power were preached to appreciative audiences by Mr. A. E. Maland.

Deptford. On Tuesday the Sunday school prizes were distributed under the presidency of C. W. Bowerman, Eeq., M.P., supported by Rev. Isaac Brentnall, Messrs. H. Roberts, W. J. Press, J. Crutch, and others. Mrs. Sturgis, of New Cross, distributed the prizes in her usual interesting manner, and contributed a guinea to the funds. A very interesting programme was pro-vided, and all did their part well. Messrs. C. Lock and W. Press rendered a cornet duet, the latter also a cornet solo. A violin duet was rendered by Miss Eleie Pumfrey and Master Bert Frank, the latter also giving a violin solo. Recitations were given by Misses Davies, Payne, and Press, and Miss Elsie Pumfrey sang a solo. The scholars sweetly sang appro-priate hymns, and the New Cross choir rendered se'ect an-theme under the leadership of Mr. J. Gray. The Sunday school has now 120 scholars, and is making good progress under the able superintendency of Mr. W. J. Press, with Mr. J. Crutch as assistant. The church and congregation are also increasing.

Forest Gate. On Sunday evening, March 24th, at our Upton Lane church, the Rev. Arthur Lawton preached a special sermon on The Death of our Lord,' to a large congregation. At the end of the service the choir sang in an excellent manner Dr. Stainer's ' The Crucifixion.' Mr. C. H. Groves very ably conducted, and Mr. F. G. W. Brown, L.C.P., presided at the organ.

Grimsby Third. Hainton Street Sunday school anniversary was held March 16th to 19th, and was in every way a great success. The special preacher was the Rev. T. Sykes, of Hull, who made a deep impression upon the large congregations which came to listen to Wm. The services began on Saturday evening with a lec-ture by Mr. Sykes on The Cry of the Children,' and in the absence of Mr. John Robinson the chair was taken by the Rev. J. Dobson. On Sunday sermons were preached morning and evening, and in the afternoon a children's service was held, presided over by His Worship the Mayor, Alderman Pickwell, J.P. On Monday a children's concert was given in the schoolroom, when Mr. P. Pickerden took the chair. The annual tea was held on Tuesday, to which nearly 300 sat down.

A genuine high-class beverage of absolute purity, having the greatest strength and the finest flavour. Made under ideal conditions of labour in an English Factory, amidst pure

and healthy surroundings.

This was followed by a public meeting in the church. Mr. C. K. Watkineon, of Ebenezer, made an ideal chairman, and an excellent address was given by the Rev. T. Sykes on ' The Psychology of Teaching.' Mr. J. R. Appleby gave the report, which showed there were on the school roll 40 teachers and 634 scholars. The financial statement was made by Mr. T R. Watkinson, J.P., who has spared neither time nor labour to make the services successful, and every one was gratified to learn that the proceeds of the anniversary amounted to up-wards of £82.

Roston We are glad to report a fair Buccal s of our winter's arrange-ments, which will be completed on April 15th next by a sale of work. The Mother's Meeting has shown a continued in-crease of numbers and enthusiasm. Our Sunday school has nearly doubled its average attendance during the last six months., and the services on a Sunday evening have shown signs of revival, We have given over 7,000 free breakfasts during the last nine months to poor and necessitous children. On Good Friday (D.V.) we gave the children of our Sunday school a free tea, including a Hot Cross Bun. We need £30 to tneet the urgent demands made upon ue. 500 sympathetic subscribers of le. each would save us a lot of time and worry. Subscriptions should be sent to H. F. Salmon, 20 Church Road, K ngeland, London, N.

Hull Fifth. Hawthorn Avenue second anniversary has just been held, with encouraging results. The preachers were the Bev. H. 0. H. Richardson, Who lectured and preached, and the Rev. F. R. Andrews. Both served Its most acceptably, Mr. Andrews' appropriate sermons being greatly enjoyed. The 'At Home' scarcely realised expectations, although the financial outcome of the effort is nearly equal to last year, the total on this occasion amounting to £29 15s.

Jarrow-on-Tyne Circuit. A most successful twelve days' mission has just been held at Hebbern Col'iery, conducted by Miss A. Butters, of Louth. Miss Waggott and other singers rendered valuable help, the singing proving both attractive and helpful, on several even-ings the place being crowded to the doors. Miss Butters' ap-peals were simple and plain and earnest and persuasive, so none could fail to understand the message. The gospel singing and addresses were attended by mighty power. The church has received a great blessing through this mission, and between 40 and 50 persons have been led to accept Christ as their Saviour, among them some remarkable cases. Several of our senior scholars, young men and women, also confessed Christ. The Faith Tea and Gospel Song Service on the Saturday were a splendid success, abundance of provisions coming in for both tea and supper. At the song service a most enjoyable time was spent, the place being crowded.

Kings Lynn. Our minister, the Rev. Arthur Wood, at London Road church, took for his subject on Sunday evening, March 24th, The Congo Atrocities. A large congregation gathered. During the sermon Mr. Wood moved a resolution expressing the deep sense of indignation felt by the congregation, and appealing to the Government not to consent to any scheme of Belgian annexation which does not ensure the discontinuance of the barbarities and a restoration to the natives of the elementary rights of humanity. The resolution was seconded in appro-priate terms by G. M. Bridges, Eeq. The congregation passed the resolution standing. In the after meeting many prayers

ere offered for the wretched people of the Congo. Lowton Circuit.

At our Trinity church, G dborne, on Wednesday evening, March 20th, a very successful At Home ' was held in the schoolroom, the host and hostess being Mr. and Mrs. J. E. Bridge, of Newton-le-Willows. The ladies, under the able leadership of Mrs. Mann, the wife of our esteemed minister, had spared no pains to make the school as attractive as possi-ble, the walls and ceiling t eing decorate d, the floor carpeted, and suites of furniture and small tables (kindly lent by mem-here of the church) being set out in drawing-room style. A plentiful supply of pictures had also been lent. Refreshments were provided, games played, and social chat indulged in. The musical part of the programme (arranged by Mr. Joe. Dean) was given by Misses Hunt and Howard, accompanied by Mr. Unaworth. Mr. Dean also contributed a violin solo, and Mr. R. Barrow delighted the audience with his capital rendering of the Lancashire sketch, 'Th' Boggart on th' Stump.' Short addressee were given by the host and hostess, and Rev. D. T. Mann. Everybody was so delighted that it was unani-mously decided to continue the 'At Home' on Thursday, when a good company again gathered, and another enjoyable even-ing was spent. The financial result amounted to almost £10. Great credit is due to the ladies for the way they worked to make the effort such a success.

Manchester Third. On Saturday last at Great Clowes Street, Broughton, the children gave an entertainment of a miscellaneous character, in connection with the Id. per week fund towards the debt reduction effort. There was a large company present to tea, and during the evening the chairman, Course ills r Windsor, J.P., gave an address, which was much appreciated. An ex-cellent programme had been arranged, and the children de-lighted the audience so much by the splendid manner in which they rendered each piece that there was an urgent request for the entertainment to be repeated, which request is being ac-ceded to. The thanks were accorded to the secretary, Miss Lewis.

Otley Station. A sale of work to reduce the debt of £120 on the Burley-in-Wharfedale chapel and school was opened on Saturday, March 9th. There was a large gathering at the ceremony, which prac-tically represented the religious life of the village. Mr. J. Pres-ton, Yeadon, presided, and there were present Rev. E. R. Buck-ley, Vicar of the parish; Rev. J. Blasdale, Wesleyan; Rev. W. Ridley, Congregational; Rev. J. Harding, superintendent of the Otley circuit; Rev. T. Doweon, and Mr. and Mrs. T. Town. Mr. J. Preston said the Burley friends had built a new chapel and school in the year 1890, and had cleared the debt sooner than any place in the circuit. Mrs. Town, of Burley, per-formed the opening ceremony. Mr. M. Warner proposed a vote of thanks to Mrs. Town. The Rev. E. R. Buckley sup-ported. He said he had experienced a great deal of kind-ness from the Primitive Methodists, lu this connection the

speaker mentioned that Professor Peaks taught him theology and refused to accept any payment. The sale was re-opened on Monday, March 11, by Mr. H. Crow, of Otley; chairman, Mr. M. Warner, and continued on Tuesday. Net proceeds of bazaar £104 ls. 4d., leaving a debt now of £20.

Rotherham. On Friday, March 22nd, an interesting wedding took place at our Wellgate church, when the Rev. J. R. Fell, eldest son of Mr john Wm. Fell, of Rotherham, was married to Miss Eliza Bird, daughter of the late Mr. John Bird, of Wellgate, Rother-ham. The Rev. J. R. Fell has spent two years in the Belfast circuit, and another year in the Abergavenny circuit. He is now destined for service as a missionary, and is to leave Eng. land on the 13th of next month for Sajobas, in Central Africa, 40 mile e from the Victoria Falls. He was previously connect. ed in official positions with the Wellgate church, with which his wife has also been prominently associated. The ministers taking part in the service were the Revs. J. H. Hindle, S. B. Reynolds, G. B. Richardson, G. K. Fawell, T. Heward, R. J. Fenwick, and W. G. Rutherford. The service was fully choral, the choir being led by Mr. R. H. Dawson, with Mr. G. W. Banks at the organ. The bride was given away by her uncle, Mr. Wm. Lomas, of Sheffield, and the bridesmaids were Miss Lydia E. Fell and Miss E. J. Garfortb. Miss Connie Dawson also attended the bride. Mr. R. H. Fell performed the duties of best man. A large company of guests subse-quently attended a reception at Nepenthe House. The Rev. J. R. and Mrs. Fell later left for Belfast, where the honey-moon is being spent. A large number of valuable presents were received.

Rotherhithe and Deptford. Rev. I. Brentoall's jubilee was regarded as an opportune time to make efforts to raise the circuit deficiency of £11. For three nights Mr. Brentnall gave an address on 'Reminiscences of my Life and Ministry during the past thirty years.' Mr. G. Heighs presided at Rotherhithe. A coffee supper was held, when upwards of twenty new converts attended. The meet-ing at New Cross was presided over by Mr. W. C. Brooks. Upwards of fifty remained to coffee supper. The Deptford celebration was presided over by Mr. Jacob Vivasb. A united circuit gathering was held on February 19th, when the Rev. S. S. Henshaw lectured on ' My Trip to Palestine.' Total pre-meds over £10. The prospects of the circuit are brightening

Seaham Harbour. Tempest Place C.E. Society Anniversary Services were held last week end. On Saturday afternoon a sermon was preached by Rev. H. Davenport, of Sunderland. A public tea was after-wards held, and in the evening a rally was held, presided over by Mr. C. Farrer, when addressee were delivered by the Revs. R. Laidler (North Shields), and W. W. Price. circuit minister. At the afternoon service Miss Hood and Miss Low sang a duet. The Rev. W. W. Price conducted the roll call, to which several societies of the district responded. On Sunday For-mons were preached morning and evening by the Rev. R. Laid-ler, and in the afternoon the Juniors gave a Musical Service, Mr. C. Parkins presiding. At the evening service Miss Carter sang a solo, and the choir rendered the anthem. ' Hear my Prayer,' the solo being taken by Miss Hall. Mr. J. D. Harri-son presided at the organ. The services were concluded on Monday night. when the Rev. R. Laidler dlivered a lecture entitled ' Christianity and Socialism.'

Silchester Circuit. On March 17th, at the opening of our new pipe organ, John Coward, Eeq., J.P , of Durham,preached two telling sermons. In the afternoon the choir, Under the leadership of Mr. G. Ford, rendered anthems in Bond style. Miss Savage efficiently presided at the organ. Rev. J. Knipe gave an interesting speech. Mr. Coward spoke very encouraging words, besides generously contributing to the funds, this being his second donation to the new organ. On March 20th, in the Impstone Reading Room (kindly lent by J. J. Cooper, Esq., J.P.), Miss Savage and the young people trained by her gave a second time their interesting entertainment, consisting of action songs and pianoforte pieces. Rev. T. Savage presided. There was a full audience, and the financial proceeds were satisfactory. At Mortimer on March 18th, Mr. Coward gave his most interest-ing and eloquent lecture on Christmas Evans.' Time sped away all too quickly. Rev. T. Savage presided. The audience was good and earnestly hoped, as it did at Silchester, that Mr. Coward will come again next year.

InSciointdecetniOn with Silsolen Sunday School Committee, en in interesting demonstration took place on Satuday last. By invitation Mr. W. S. Dinedale, of Keighley, gave a demonstra-tion of modern methods in infant-class management before a large audience. About forty children had been trained by the infant school teachers, led by Miss Craven. These were ar-ranged on small chairs, placed semi-circularly. A specimen morning session was gone through in an excellent manner, the little ones entering with great earnestness into the proceedings. When the children had been dismissed, Miss Craven gave a good demonstration of class teaching. The demonstration closed with a brief discussion, opened by Miss Jackson. The chairman, Mr. C. Barton, contributed some weighty words. The workers have been greatly stimulated.

Stourbridge The choir sermons were preached at Enville Street Primitive Methodist Church on Sunday, Maroh 24th. by Councillor M. Bedford, of Stafford. Miss Bedford, of Birmingham, sang solos during the day. The choir rendered two beautiful an-thems in their usual fine style. The services were such that brought a power of Divine influence into our midst, and we felt that it was good to be in the House of Prayer. The pro-ceeds of the day are to be used in providing new musio for the choir.

TO OTH-ACH E CURED INSTANTLY BY

BUNTER'S Prevent. Decay, Save. Extraction, Sleepless Nights

Prevented. NEURALGIA, HEADACHE, and t%/ERVINE all Nerve Pains removed by BIIRTHWEI BERVINS. All Stores >< lid.

es a Spaeth') far lbotbanhe, It bas no mod. I have used tt s000ssdully la yarn.'—Yid. W. Wzreois Y.D.

lat 4, 1907

THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. 221

Services and Preachers. SUNDAY, APRIL 7th.

GUERNSEY, Truohot Street, at 10.45 and 6.80.

GARRINGAY, Mattison Road, Rev. T. J. Gladwin at 11 and 8.80.

HARROGATE, Dragon Parade, Rev. W. Younger at 11 and 8.30.

ISLE OF MAN, Port Erin, Rev. J. W. Lancaster at 11 and 6.80.

MATLOCK, Matlock Bank, Bev. J. Barton at 10.80 and 8.80.

MIDDLESBOROUGH, Mr. Albert Shakesby April 6th to 10th.

NEWCASTLE - ON - TYNE, Central Church, Rev. A. T. fluttery at 10.80 and 6.80.

RYDE, I. W., High Street, Rev. William Glover at 11 and 6.30.

SHEFFIELD, Central Mission, Cambridge Street, Bev. J. T. Goodacre at 10.45 and 6.80.

SOUTHPORT, Church Street, Rev. J. T. Barkby at 10.80 and 6.30.

SURREY CHAPEL, BLACKFRIARS ROAD, S.E., at 11 and 7, Rev. W. Lee, B.A.

Connectional Evangelists' Engagements. HETTON-LE-HOLE, Rev. W. R. Bird, April 7th to 14th. KILBURN, Rev. J. Odell, April 6th to 8th. UPTON PARK, Rev. J. Flanagan, March 81st to April 7th.

Prayer Is desired for the Evangelists and Missions.

CENTENARY CELEBRATIONS.

Organising Secretary's Engagements.

Sunday, April 7th, Swindon, Prospect Place, morning 10.30; United S.S. Meeting in afternoon at Regent street, and Regent Street at night. Monday, April 8th, Brinkworth and Swindon District; Committee in afternoon, Public Meeting at night Tuesday, April 9th, Wootton Bassett; Publlo Meeting. Wednesday, April 10th, Newbury; Sermon, Tea, and Con-ference in afternoon, Public Meeting at night. Thursday, April 11th, Newcastle, Staffs; Public Meeting. Friday, April 12th, Shrewsbury; District Committee in afternoon and Public Meeting at night.

Births, Marriages, Deaths.

NOTIONS of Births, Marriage., and Deaths, together with remittances should be sent to Mr. T. M. BIUNDLEY, 4 Ludgate Circus, London, B.O. Notices are inserted at the following prepaid rates: first IM words US. and 6d. for every additional 10 words or low.

MARRIAGES. ABEY—BLANSILULD. —On March 30th, at the Congregational

Church, Brigg, by the Rev. F. W. Butler, Robert Abey (late of Waddingham), to Miss E. A. Blanshard, of Brigg.

Ftercnza—GrarmrsTsrsm.—At Northumberland Street Church, Huddersfield, on March 26th, by the Revs. S. G. Delafield and C. Tinn, the Rev. Thos. Fletcher, of Mirfield, to Sarah Elizabeth, eldest daughter of the late Mr. and Mre. S. Glendinning, of Hali-fax and Huddersfield.

Moimarrn—Masos.—On the 13th inst., at the Primitive Metho-dist Church, St. John's Road, Scarborough, by the Rev. J. Reavley, W. Morland toLizzie Mason, niece of Mr. and Mrs. Frank Horner.

DEATHS. Knsio.—On April and, at 11 Summerseat Place, Bradford, in

her 51st year, Nancy, the beloved wife of Rev. G. W. King. Bung—On the 17th inst., at 144 St. Helene Avenue, Swansea,

after a long and painful illness, Alice Elizabeth Belden, aged 25 years.

Warrraxeu.—On March 81st, at Armley, Leeds, in her 25th year, Mabel, the beloved wife of Arthur Whittaker. Deeply regretted.

Ministerial Changes and Engagements.

The Rev. I. Potts, of Leicester, has accepted the invitation of Doncaster First Circuit for July, 1908.

The Rev. John Bradbury, of Grimsby, has accepted the in-vitation of the Blackpool Station to succeed the Rev. J. Day Thompson in 1909.

The Rev. W. Mainprize has consented to remain at Winter-ton a fifth year.

The Rev. J. Prince has intimated his intention of leaving the Tetney circuit in 1908.

The Rev. J. W. Waddell has decided to leave Manchester First circuit at the end of his third year's superintendency, July 1908.

The Rev. T. Featon has decided to leave Howden circuit in 1908, after a term of three years.

Methodist Weddings. AN interesting wedding took place in Northummberland Street Church, Huddersfield, on March 26th, the contracting parties being the Rev. Thos. Fletcher, of Mirfield, and Miss Sarah Elizabeth Glendinning, eldest daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. S. Glendinning, of Halifax and Huddersfield. The ser-vice was conducted by the Revs. S. G. Delafield and C. Tinn, the church being well filled with friends. The bride was given away by her uncle, Mr. Eccles, and she was accompanied to the altar by her twe sisters, Miss Maggie and Rise May Glen-dinning, as bridesmaids, each carrying a beautiful shower bouquet of carnations and lilies. The bride's bouquet con-meted of roses and lilies. The bridegroom was accompanied by his brother, Mr. Ben Fletcher, and Mr. R. Hind as grooms-man. The organist played suitable selections and accompanied the hymn, '0 Love Divine and Golden,' with much taste. After the wedding, Mrs. Glendinning, of ' Linwood,' held a reception in the schoolroom. Mr. and Mrs. Fletcher have been the recipients of s large number of presents, including a hand-some marble time-piece from the Battyeford society.

QUARTERLY MEETING REPORTS.

Ashington Station in a healthy condition. £273 cleared off debts. Steps taken to build two new churches at Guide Post and Pegs-wood. The circuit proposes to raise £1,000 for Centenary Fund.

Bedford Seoond A hopeful outlook. Centenary scheme received and officers appointed. Hearty appreciation of Mr. Hartley's offer.

Belfast Acting upon medical advice, the Rev. T. Maland asked to be released at Conference. Consent was given. Application for third minister unanimously decided on. At Shankhill Road a £500 debt reduction scheme has been started.

Berwick-on-Tweed Reports of good work at Norham, until lately the despair of the circuit. Mr. and Mrs. Davidson are the centre of revived interest. Centenary scheme under consideration. We feel keenly the lose of Mr. R. Laidler.

B ilston Chapel reports showed over £100 paid off debt. We celebrate Centenary with great camp meeting and Sunday school de-monstration, when every child will be presented with a medal struck for the occasion. Centenary fund decided upon. Mr. W. P. Hartley's offer gratefully accepted.

Birkenhead Second Missionary revenue increased. Contribution to circuit fond the highest on record. Mr. W. P. Hartley's offer gratefully received. Arrangements made for celebrating the Centenary. Appreciative reference was made to Rev. W. tipeddiog's min-istry, and his salary increased.

Blaenavon £219 2e. raised for debt reductions, Blaenavon debt reduced by £138 2s. in fourteen months. Missionary income creates a record.

BrinKWorth Prosperity reported in all departments. Decided to aim at 11,000 for Centenary Fund. The whole cost of new chapel at Preston raised.

Burnley First Every department prosperous. Chapel debts reduced. Cen-tenary Fund considered, final arrangements made in June.

Cambridge First Trust debts reduced by over £80. We recorded our apprecia-tion of Mr. Hartley's generous offer.

Cheadle Two chapels have been renovated and one cleared of debt. The Whiston society is intending to build a new church. W histon appeared on the first plan in 1812; the present building is dated 1836, James Bourne being one of the original trustees. Determined to do what we can to celebrate the Centenary worthily.

Chertssy The mission is generally prosperous. Ashford Common chapel has been thoroughly renovated at a cost of £40.

Cirencester All reports enoouraging. Much special work has been put in. Our village societies are small and we lack workers. Have had a few conversions.

Coetkormouth We report five increase. Arrangements for the District synod were made, as also for the celebration of the Centenary.

Donoaster First Progress in every department reported. Paid £90 off Spring Gardens debt. £100 raised at fiexthorpe towards a new chapel at Hyde Park. £90 added to new school fund; we build this year.

Edinburgh The reports of the Sisters were received as very satisfactory. The Leith new church was sanctioned. During the past year £275 were paid off the Livingstone Hall debt. The two new institutions started—the men s P.S.A. and the Women's Guild —are making good progress.

Ely Mr. Hartley's offer gratefully received. Arrangements made for Centenary Camp Meetings. A new chapel at Brandon Bank to be built.

Forest Gate Reports indicate continued prosperity. Suggestions of the Centenary committee were favourably entertained.

froxhill Bank and Accrington Mr. W. P. Hartley's offer was gratefully accepted. A Centen-ary committee was appointed. Trust estates in a prosperous condition. Upwards of £500 raised during the year for new schools at Foxhill Bank, and £136 at Higher Antley for debt reduction, and a new church initiated at Whalley Road. We have just had a gracious revival at Cross.

Halifax First Circuit in a healthy condition. The Centenary proposals adopted, and a committee, with secretary and treasurer, was appointed. United Centenary demonstration arranged for June 29th and 30th.

Hammersmith The circuit fund healthy. Five years ago 120 church mem-bers were reported, we now report 170. During that time three Trusts have been enlarged; £63 paid off the debt at Bayonne R Jed ; £105 spent in improving the manse; and over £900 raised towards the new Sunday school and Institute at balling Road.

Hastings Arrangements were made for the opening services of the new church at Bexhill-on-Sea. A new school has been commenced at Beach Terrace, Hastings. The Public Mall Mission reported to be successful.

High Wycombe Centenary proposals well received, we shall aim at £816, being £1 4s. per member. Chapel debts reduced £111. Land secured for new school at roan. Mr. Hartley's offer much appreciated.

Luton Second Reports very pleasing. All financial needs met. Chapel debts reduced £180. Chapel restoration contemplated at Bendieto, and renovation at Redbourn.

Lydney Chapel debts reduced £196. An increase of two adult tem-perance societies and one Band of Hope. Centenary proposals considered, and arrangements made for carrying out the evan-gelistic part. Financial part under consideration.

Maidon During the year several improvements made in the chapels, and a considerable amount of money raised. Outlook favour-able.

Maimesbury Successful evangelistic services held by Mrs. Hubbard, of Biggleewade, at several places. We report a reduction of trust debts. The missionary revenue is higher than it has been for years. District Meeting for 1908 invited.

Manchester Eleventh Financial liabilities, though heavy, have been met. The Rev, Ernest Lacey has accepted for 1907, and will carry forward new chapel scheme at Prestwich.

Manes Station fairly prosperous. Centenary Camp Meetings to be held. Rev. A. Stabler seeking superannuation. New manse opened during the day; sermon by Rev. J. Bowles, followed by tea and meeting.

Martham Balance in band £10. Every place healthy. New chapel to be built at Reppe, trust estates, schools, and C.E.'s prosperous. We are full of hope for the future.

Maryport The Elleuborough new church to be opened in May. Weekly evangelistic meetings in the most neglected part of Maryport have been held, and dozens have professed conversion. The class meetings and public services were never so well sustained before. Councillor Greenhow continues as circuit steward.

Bernice The chapels were reported prosperous, Atwiok having become free from debt. Arrangements were made for Centenary camp meetings at three centres. After tea, which was given by Mre. W. Parker, a short conference of officials was held with Rev. G. Armstrong. Mr. W. Parker took the chair at a public meeting, which was addressed by the Revs. W. A Hammond and G. Armstrong. The speakers stirred the hearts of all present. The station will do its utmost to real-ise the object of the Centenary movement.

Horton There was evidence of improvement at Philip Street. Net decrease of 19 members regretfully reported.

Hull Third The Centenary proposals considered, and arrangements made to carry out a scheme. A new organ has been secured for Sutton at a cost of £250. Bethesda trust debt reduced £350 and Stoneferry £50. Circuit fund has balance in hand.

Quarterly held on the 14th. A good attendance, and business quietly transacted. Among the pleasing features was reduction of chapel debts, increase in school, Band of Hope, and C.E. departments. Roll of membership continues the same, and we have the unity of the Spirit in the bonds of peace. Gratitude was expressed for Mr. Hartley's generous offer, and we are doing what we can to take our part in Cen-tenary services. We enter upon a new year in the spirit of faith and expectancy.

Kennington Park Circuit is in a hopeful condition. Members and finances in-creasing. We are honouring our pledge and unanimously invite Rev. Philip A. Evans to remain.

Leyton Outlook most encouraging. A bazaar in April for debt re-duction. Mission work has been vigorously prosecuted by Young Men's Mission Band. The Rev. J. Lindley completed ten years' successful ministry. The P.S.A. has doubled its number during the year. The school is crowded.

LiVerpool Third £534 paid off the chapel debts, and £21 8s. 6d. sent to General Missionary treasurer, the largest for twelve years. The con-gregations are increasing and the schools are crowded.

Louth Financial condition of trusts and schools very good. We re-gret to report a decrease of members. Interesting discussion on Centenary proposals, and decided to purchase a good stock of literature and begin the campaign at once.

Loviestoft Reports favourable in nearly every department. Sanction given to enlarge St. Peter's Street chapel and to alter and renovate Mill Road chapel. It was decided to build or pur-chase ministers' houses at Lowestoft and Loddon for the Cen-tenary scheme.

Luton First Reports show a year of progress. Our debts are being gradu-ally reduced. We are organising an effort to considerably lessen the debt at Hightown. The outlook gives cheer and satis-faction.

222

THE P1 I1VIITIVE METHODIST LEADER. APRIL 4, 1907

Melton Mowbray Circuit satisfactory. Meeting hopeful as to the future. £85 paid off debts durtug the year.

Mere Arrangements made for Centenary celebration and other work, including marooning a new place. Several conversions re-ported; a nopetul tune prevailed.

Monmouth Circuit nuances in serious condition, due to agricultural de-pression and other known causes. Schedules spewed encour-aging signs ot vitality.

Mountain Ash Resolutions of gratitude to Mr. W. P. Hartley for his mu-nificence, and congratulation to Prof. Peaks on the honour couferred by the Aberdeen University. Centenary meetings arranged and special attention given to chapels at Mountain Ash and at Penrhiwceiber and to evangelistic services.

Want%/iota and Burland Prosperity in all departments. A resolution of sympathy

- with Bro. J. Corbett in loss of his wife. A presentation of a purse of gold was made to Bro. R. Lloyd, who has been a

-meal preacher for fifty years. New chapel and school are to be erected at Broad Lane.

Newark In each depatment of church work we have moderate success. At Newara we have an increase of members, and two-thirds more sittings let. Centenary District Meeting to be held at Newara.

Newport and CoWes Cowes church asked for a second married preacher, but the meeting could not see its way to meeting the expense.

Newport, Mon. Great saustactiou at the completion of arrangements for the erection of rue new school chapel in Corporation Road. The outlook was considered bright.

NeWtown The prospects of the station numerically are not encouraging. Num witustaading we are pleased to report favourably ot our tinaneial position.

Rotherhithe and Deptford Prowess reported. £215 paid off debts—£150 of this being at Deptford, where our congregations are improving, and the income to this quarterly meeting from Deptford was nearly £12. Rotherhitne chapel has been freed from debt, and a good reduction made at New Cross. We can truthfully say, We have sown iu tears, and now reap in joy.' Rev. I. Breutnall will be succeeded by the Rev. J. W. Coed.

St. Austell One of the most enjoyable meetings in the memory of the oldest officials. Station greatly improved in its finance.

StaVeley The circuit is in a remarkably healthy condition. All the sehools and trust estates showed a substantial balance in hand. The income for missions in advance of last year. The Centenary committee was appointed and gratitude expressed to Mr. W. P. Hartley for his generous offer to local preachers.

Stepney and Leytonstone A large reduction in the debt at Leytonstone has been effect-ed. Plans approved for the celebration of Centenary and ar-rangements made to bring them before the churches.

Stvalkley The returns showed general progress. Tender for new church at Swaubourne accepted. Earl Carrington has offered excel lent site for new church and school at Drayton Parslow on favourable terms. A resolution of hearty thanes to Mr. W. P. Hartley for his generous otter.

St. Ives, Runts Mr. rtarttey b generous offer was greatly appreciated by the brethren. Meinuerehip same as last year. The circuit will raise its proportion ot the centenary Scheme. Arrangements were made for special evangelistic servicee at all the places on the circuit.

Wickhambrook Amid agricultural depression and Anglican intolerance we cunuuue to live, but progress is almost impossible. School returue snow encouraging evideuca of worm. Trust estates a.so evidence devotion and sacrifice.

Wigan £he odor of Mr. Hart'ey was much appreciated by all local pre,acilers. Prosperity in all branched and work. We nave paid £1UU off dents. We tall into line with Centenary cele-orations by bolding a circuit camp meeting on June 9th, and by scheme for reduction of debt.

Willington inaucial eundition satisfactory. Decided to raise £450 to-

wards centenary fund, the local portion to be devoted to ouialing a new manse. Arrangements wade for other (Jen-teu.,ry celebrations. Plans for new couch at Uakenshaw pas -ed. Ube circuit has raised nearly 11,000 ouring year for trust purposes.

Winsfurd Splendid meeting, and circuit was reported to be prosperous. lnecesse et 2U —tamers and dents reduced during the year. We report ei:ght decrease in scholars, but an increase of u.E. alealouni, 'Lb scholars, over 14 have Liecinuo 'nommen, this year. L'au initieiewary income was £32—wore than double the in-unto el two years ago; gilts to Orphanage and L.P.A. also

increased. marital Road has purchased a new organ and reno-vated and beautified the church at a cost of more than £450. ,hd the whole amount raised. We rejoice that the year flab ueeu so full of bieesiug and of ingathering. A centenary scheme is under consideration. We have given £13 to Rev. J. Gritliu's Fund for Lflowes Chapel, Burstem.

Winster thclidui and chapel funds in healthy condition. A revival is proceeding at Youlgreave. Bircuover chapel renovated. oiggin has practice* erected a new chapel, and raised £17b towards it, leaving a debt of £40. Our minister remains a fourth year.

W interton Reports indicate progress in nearly every department. - Rev. W. Maiuprize unanimously invited and promised to stay until 1209. Balance sheets of Appleby new chapel showeu over £220 raised towards a cost of £480. A Centenary scheme approved. live young men received on full plan and after-wards ordained.

Wirksworth Decided to purchase a site on Cromford Road for a minister's house. The Luepke of the District Meeting and Conference are sought on behalf of Mr. W. butler, who has contributed 1135 to the tunas of the new chapel at Middleton. 'the cir-cuit on time whole is prosperous, and steps are being taken for a great revival during the Centenary years.

Wisbech Our financial position showed a balance in hand. This was a source of joy as tnat has not been our experience of late. The new minister's home is well on the way for being paid for. The yearly reports indicated general progress.

Wishav/ Considerable progress reported. The last £100 of debt on the new Wiehaw church has been paid and the church, which seats 500, and valued at £2,000, is now tree. Sanction given to erect an Iron church at Flemington, a new district, where we have secured nearly half an acre of valuable ground.

Witney It was decided to commence a Centenary scheme to include a new organ at Witney and alterations to schoolroom. Arrange-mieutes were made for District Meeting.

Wolverhampton Large atteudauce. Eruancial state of the circuit in a much better suite tuau last year. Regret to report a decrease of teachers and scholars, caused by the clueing of Spiuunelds Church, but we hope to rectify unit next year, when we shall report the new chapel. About £300 raised towards this build-ing during last year. Increase of 0.E. Society and Band of Hope members.

Wolverton and Stantonbury It is with much joy that we are able to report substantial in-creases in every department, due almost entirely to the increas-ed attention which has been paid to the group,of places around the L. and N. W.R. works at Wolverton. Here we have an in-

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crease of about 20 members and 30 scholars. We are hop-ing to build new and commodious premises at Wolverton dur-iug the year.

The cio, et!?

isisteward presented a very satisfactory financial statement. We report an increase of membership.

Woodley Circuit healthy. Increase of members 25. £100 paid off dents, leaving total circuit debt of £350. Young People's Institute furnished at Woodley, where there is a strong u.h, Mr. ilartley's generous offer was gladly accepted, and a reso-lution of thanks passed. The circuit decided to double Mr. Hartley's gift, so the local preachers will obtain £1 is. net of nooks for 10s. 6d.

Worcester Well attended; excellent spirit all through. Centenary scheme includes minister's house. We are aiming at one thousand crowns (5s.), and hope to have much help from Sunday School cnildren. Fah), expect to commence services at Dreitwich shortly, and efforts are to be made to secure a site and iron church. We report small increase. Prospects are very en. couraging.

Workington interesting discussion on the Centenary movement. Meeting agreed to aim at raising £1,000, towards which.amount more than £150 is already pionneed. A resolution of thanks unan-imously carried to Mr. W . P. Hartley.

Worthing and Shoreham fhe tinaucialreport was satisfactory. Rev. T. Peatfield intimat-ed he shouidleave the circuit in 1908. Uur esteemed brother time Mayor, Ald. C. Linfield, was congratulated oh his elec- tion to the county Council without opposition. Tea was pro-vided and given by Miss Lintield. Rev. T. Peatfield gave his popular lecture, 'From Tannery to White House,' his Wor-ship, the Mayor, presiding.

Wrockwardine Wood Increases in Sunday school scholars. General outlook is bright and promising.

Wymondham Removals form the discouraging side of our work, but we have abundant material out of which to grow other workers. We have opened a new and an additional chapel, one of the best village properties in Norfolk. We contemplate the erec-tion of another during the summer. We work and wait.

York Second • Schedules caretulty considered and gratification expressed at the financial position. The decrease of nine members deeply regretted. Ins upward movement seems to have begun, and the outlook is hopeful. The bazaar at Victoria Bar realised 1120. The Rev. J. H. Hirst leaves in July for Hull First, and is succeeded by the Rev. E. W. Challenger.

Nevi Wandsviorth Centenary proposals were adopted and committee appointed. Arrauged tor open-air services and camp meeting. Tue circuit report. prosperity. Congregations, suilools, and U.E.s tm- proving. ram ea debts 1102 10s.

North Boo/ Cueering prosperity at Driffield Road church in all depart-meets. 2100 paid oa dent. After 44 years the Rev. It. E. Connell applied tor superannuation.

Nottingham fourth Tue news of Mr. Hartley's offer was very pleasing. The re torus ram wed Lust trust estates, Sunday scnools, U.E. societies, etc., were nealtny. Station steward has a valance in hand.

eakhant The circuit is in a satisfactory condition. Mr. Hartley's kinu offer was wen received. chapel dents have been reduced. Cu. eenoole are prusperuus. We report an increase of one C.E. society. Uur uherauhary meetings nave been very encourag-

ing. cur Levee are bright tor tue future.

Old Hill We deutued to carry out the recommendations of the Coate: - ary Committee. Tim circuit is in a healthy condition.

Orrull The circuit fairly healthy in every respect. Orrell church has cleared its dent .ts15, and Peuioer ton has added nearly £2011 to the Fund for new reboots.

03weXtrY Decided to aim at £500 within the next three years for Cen-

' teuary Fund, £300 towards circuit manse, £200 for conuexional purposes. Alderman G. Peras, J .P., was congratulated on toeing raised Le the Aldermanio chair.

Ott ey Chaper schedules showed trust estates to be healthy. School and reports full ot encouragement. Centenary proposals were warmly discussed, and the scheme prepared by the chair-man for raising the circuit's proportion eutuusiasucally carried.

Oxford Centenary celebration well started. The local object is to be time deeming of a minister 8 house f or the circuit. A strenuous opeu-air mission is to ne carried out during toe summer. Dents redueed—Pembroke Street, Xtili; New Street, £40; Bladon, £8. The meeting tun of hope.

Patrington The station is prosperous in congregations, finances, and spirit-ual ate. Every Limit estate is neaithy. centenary proposals adopted. A great circuit camp meeting to be held on May 30th.

Peaton Strand Steady progress in all departments. Centenary proposals dis-eusseu anti circuit secretary and treasurer appointed. Societies to have a financial scheme laid before them. Arranged for a

central circuit Camp Meeting. Peel

Every trust showed a fair balanse, and it was decided to have a Centenary Camp Meeting at many places.

Peterborough Second Reports suuwed /MAL haudities are being reduced. Oa the whole, the soiLacle are healthy. , and membership on the in-crease. We are hoping to raise £400 for Centenary.

PetaiikY This circuit enjoys great prosperity. The straggle on this station nos been lung and Severe, but victory has tome and

gladdened our hearts.

POCklingt0111 Interesting discussion on Centenary celebration. Circuit con-sidered prosperous in all respects.

B.HOW I 0 11.11.CELIGHLBUNS.

irlavaraialarrulslaisg

COUNCILLOR BEDFORD, who has for six years served on the Board of Guardians, has been re-elected, also Mr. H. Hulme, own members of our church at Stafford.

OUR readers will be glad to learn that Mr. J. W. Grant has again beau successful In Easington Board of Guardian and Sea-Lam Harbour Urban District Council Election, his number of votes being greatly increased. Mr. Grant is circuit steward and a class leader at the Tempest Place church.

IN addition to many other attractive articles the April num-ber of 1 he Woman at Home contains the Life Story of Mrs. Mary Baker Eddy, and the History of Christian Science. The etc.), of the way the sect was founded by Mrs. Eddy is fall of absorbing interest. The remaining chapters will be eagerly awaited.

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WHAT SOME OF THE LEADERS OF PRIMITIVE METHODISM THINK AND SAY CONCERNING

MR. JAMES BERNARD, Reciter and Preacher.

The Primitive Methodist World. " Mr. Bernard delighted his audience at Ellesmere, and it is the general opinion that he is an elocutionist

of the lint order. His programme was choice in seleetion, and provided two hours entertainment highly appreciated by all. We have no doubt that Mr. Bernard will attract a large audience on he next -

Now booking Week-end and Single Evening Engagements for Free Churches in any part of the United Kingdom.

Heine a Primitive Methodist Loos' Preacher, Mr. Bernard is anxious and willing to give P.M. Churohes the preference. Hie recent bookings have included, Primitive Metliodtit, Wesleyan, Congregational, MetJsodLst New Connexion, and other denominations.

Terms moderate, and include s 'apply of suitable advertising matter, such as Bills and Photo-bloolna

Address: 10 Spring Road, Hale, near Manchester:

Northampton Daily Chronicle. "Mr. Bernard bee gained a name as an elocaVonist which always minors, him an apprutiative audience, and

he recited at the T,Ive Hall with marked success. lie is the most vit,itile of voice producers, and his biter prate:ion of the various onsralters was untiringly interesting. ilia recited gave unalloyed delight." Wellington Journal and .Shrewsbury News.

"Mr. Bernard impressed and delighted the large congregations with diecourem of an exceptionally able description. But etcellent a preacher as he is, he IS el, Pa more power[ ai a dramatic reciter, his el mutton. ery gib s and mimetic capabilities tieing very prononueed. . . . la the course of his r telt.' he moved his andienoe to alternating Interest, laughter, and tears. There was not a human emotion which Mr. Bernard did not touch."

APRIL 4, 190? THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. 223

LOCAL CHURCH NEWS. Bradford fourth.

Heaton R tad chapel festival. The onbirrip-tion meat tea was held in Drummond Bled Council schools on Saturday and attended by over 501 parsons. The tables presented a beautiful sight and were a great credit to all donors and toilers. A beautiful harmony pre-vailed all through the proceedings. The pub-lic meeting was held in the chapel, presided over by Ald. D Wade, Esq., J.P. Excellent addressee were delivered by Revs. J. Stephen-son, of Nottingham, N.M. Cuthbert and F. E Heape. Special mus.c was sweetly rendered by the choir, and Miss A. Bawcombe gave a reAtation in fine style. On Sunday Rev. J. Stephenson preached two powerful sermons to good congregations. The festival has been successful in both quality and finance, and thanks are tendered to all.

Cambridge Second We held our chapel anniversary on Sunday and Monday, March 24th and 25th, at the Tabernacle, It is just thirty years since the building was opened for religious services. Mr. John Coward, J.P., of Durham, served us admirably, preaching effective sermons to good congregations. In the afternoon the choir and friends rendered good s-nging at the musical service. Mr. E. Campkin presided. At the evening service Mrs. Field Hide ren-dered a beautiful solo, and her husband pre-sided at the organ. Our own choir deserve special praise for the good music they sup-plied throughout the day. On Monday we held a public tea, after which Mr. Coward gave his fine lecture on 'A King, a Witch, and a Prophet: A Seance in the Olden Times.' -It was much appreciated. Mr. Coulson, an old Sunday scholar, presided. The entire pro-oeeda realised £17, enabling us to pay £14 off the Tabernacle Trust debt.

Mr. Philip Parr, a local preacher and trus-tee of over thirty years standing on the Cam-bridge Second circuit, ded on Tuesday even-ing last of cancer.

• eastletovin From every standpoint an exceptionally good round of missionary services and meetings have just been concluded on this station. The Rev. J. S. Buckley, of Peel, served us admir-ably as deputation, and each meeting was-also well sustained by our laymen and circuit min-ister, the Rev. J. W. Lancaster. The total financial result was £26 5s. 4d., being £6 4s. 3d. in advance of the previous:year.

Derby Second. At Kedleston Street a very pretty wedding took place on Wednesday, March 27th, Rev. G. E. Lloyd officiating. The contracting parties were Mies Florrie Alton (daughter .1 the late Rev. W. Alton) and Mr. Harold Williamson, both of Derby. The bridesmaids were Miss Ettie Alton and Miss Hilda Bennett. The duties of best man were ably performed by Mr. George Wil-liarnson, brother of the bridegroom. The bride was given away by her uncle, Mr. W. H. Ben-nett, at whose house the wedding breakfast Was served. Congratulatory speeches were made by Rev. G. E. Lloyd and others. The young people afterwards left for London for the honeymoon before settling down at their new home in Sheffield.

Kiveton Park Circuit. The past fortnight's mission at Fir Vale, con-ducted by Mrs. Evison, has been to us a sea-son of rich blessing. It being so near Easter the congregations some nights have not been large, but the divine power has been realised, and a number of young people and adults have been won for Christ. Temperance pledges were also taken. On Good Friday Mrs. Evi-son preached in the morning on 'Calvary.' It was a soul-melting time. In the afternoon a Providence Tea was held, to which many sat

down. The provisions were sent in great abundance, and of the best quality. The Kiveton -Park friends helped to make the effort a success. The tea profits and a few small donations realised 12e In the even- ing Mrs. Evison gave her interesting lecture for the trust fund, 'Happy Homes, and How to Make Them.' The congregation was large, over which Mr. T. Hoggard ably presided.

North Bow, London, E. At Driffield Road, on Good Friday, over 100 persons sat down to tea, presided ever by Mes-dames Cade, Steer, Michell and Miss E. M. Con-nell. This number was subsequently largely augmented when the cantata Calvary ' was impressively rendered by the choir. Mr. J. West conductor. Mrs. Sage organist. The chair was occupied by the Rev. R. R. Connell and addresses on the lessons of Calvary were given by Messrs. F. Parkin and Mr. J. Bell. Proceeds for the trust funds.

Norwich Second. At Dereham Road in connection with a series of efforts on behalf of the school extension scheme, a most interesting cantata was recently rendered with much success-on several succes-sive evenings. The complete arrangements were most creditably carried out under the direction of the Misses Mabel and Kate Barker. Forty young people were introduced in the three parts of the piece, which was entitled ' The Enchanted Glen,' the moral of time story being developed by the exposure of the unkindneee to an orphan by a village dame, Grampus' by name, who, under the spell of the Fairy Dell, was convinced of the error of her ways and promised reformation The charming get-up of the various scenes were all excellent. The whole performance was most attractive; and time financial result of about £15 was most cheering to the pro-moters. Mrs. Day, Councillor W. B. Rutland, Mr. G. L. Lambert, and Mr. A. E. Coleman presided on the various occasions. Thanks were accorded to them on the motion of Rev. G. P. Clarke, and also to the conductors, who were highly complimented on their success.

Reading. In connection with the choir anniversary of London Street Chapel, the choir and friends gave a highly creditable concert after the evening service on Sunday before a large audience. The anthem by the choir afforded marked pleasure, Miss Waite sustaining the solo portion with success. Mr. T. Waite con-ducted, and Mr. T. H. Allen presided at the organ. Miss Tidbury, Mrs. Rhodes, Miss Hussey, Messrs. Stevens, Allen, T. H. Allen, Miss Waite, Mrs. Heyter, Mrs. Rhodes, Miss Drew, Messrs. Stapletord and F. Drew, Mrs. F. W. Drew rendered very efficient service during the evening.

Sheffteld SeVenth. Langeett Road church have been holding their annual men and women's effort. On the Sunday afternoon the men gave a song ser-vice, with connective readings from Neddy Jacques,' which has appeared in the Leader. They were much appreciated and further re-peats were asked for. After the Monday tea a lecture was given by Rev. R. W. B. White-way on 'Garfield.' On Easter Sunday the women of the church, conducted by Mrs. F. K. Day, gave a service of song entitled 'Sis-ter Dora.' Reader, Mrs. E. Quine, of Brad-well. The financial results of the services were very good.

Walsall. Our church at Stafford Street, Walsall, has been favoured with a visit by Messrs. J. fferson and Ford, evangelists, of Crewe. During the fort-night's mission the church has been very spiritually strengthened. While we do not for-get that it is God's work, yet the geniality, sincerity, and passion of the missionary, corn.

blued with their clear exposition and forceful application of Bible truths, led the people into a de"per life with God. Their efforts in the Sunday School have been very successful, many of the young people responding to their appeal for the higher life.

Wigan. The Central Hall Church anniversary services were held on Good Friday. In the afternoon the Rev. J. Dudley, of Liverpool, preached an eloquent sermon, after which an excellent tea was provided and served by Mrs. Adams, Miss Anders, Miss Highton, Miss Farnell, and Miss Swarbrick. In the evening there was a public meeting, over which Councillor H. Twist ably presided, and earnest addresses were given by the Revs. F. Morgan Edge, W. L. Dunlop, M.A. and J. Dudley. Mr. Ridge made a financial statement, which showed that the church had raised £330 since the last anniversary, and that £230 of this amount had been raised by special efforts. The expenditure had averaged £6 weekly. He said the people at the Central Hall had made great sacrifices for the, pros-perity of the church and they were to be heartily commended for their efforts. The anniversary services were continued on East-er Sunday, when the Rev. J. Travis, of Ches-ter, preached to large congregations. The ser-vices concluded with an excellent prayer meet-ing.

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THE YEARLY MEETING WILL as IIELto Lai

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224 THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. APRIL 4,1907.

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Summer Term will commence

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in the hands of Circuit Ministers who will be glad to furnish information to Parents or Guardians.

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London: Published by 'The Associated Methodist Newspapers Company, Limited,' 73 Farringdon Street, R.C. Printed by F. H. Heap, Bedford Street, Commended Road, B., Thursday, April 4, 1907. r.

51-4 .4 Ma, ty,t g

z "4"'

Year. MB

612

£ £ £ 1,003,632 323 518,070 166 631,730 208 1,629,031 465 049,200 185 729,402 208 2,183,968 575 983,087 260 839,846 222 2,431,720 621 1,023,845 262 858,047 222 2,802,650 706 1,002,146 244 897,101 226 2,950,126 703 995,767 237 940,784 224 8,931,476 916 1,020.210 287 998,725 232 4,799,636 1,071 1,155,707 262 1,032,373 284

370% 280% 120% 63% 66% 15%

1870 9,107 1875 9 502 1880 8,791 1885 3,912 1890 8,970 1895 4,196 1900 4,304 1905 4,413

Inc' in 1 41Y 85 yrs.

TM/ PRIMITIvit METHODIST LEADER, APRIL 4, 1907.

f MARGARET WESTON'S LOVE STORY. Next Week.

The

Primitive Methodist Leader

No. 2017 Old Series. He. 9e New Series. LONDON: THURSDAY, APRIL 4,1907. ONE PENNY

128 pages. Paper, 6d. net; cloth, 1/. net.

GUILTY. ( 0 r: H ET

A Tribute to the Bottom Mao, and

A PLAIN REPLY TO `NOT CUILTY,

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A CENTENARY OF CHAPEL BUILDING.

IT is perhaps impossible for ohurohes with a long his-tory behind them to rightly appraise the difficulties that have to be surmounted, and the sacrifices made, by a church like ours, in securing the needed eoolesiastioal property for its maintenance and growth. Buoh churches have had largely provided for them the structures they need by the gifts and services of past generations of Christian men. The Anglican Church of to-day has inherited churches and schools worth many millions sterling. The older Free Churches — Presbyterian, Congregational, Baptist—have also entered on a large heritage of Church prosperity provided by the free gifts of earlier generations of Free Churchmen, and they share in the inspiration of the splendid traditions of these ancient edifices and the men who have ministered in them. The present duty, therefore, of such churches is to maintain what has been handed on to them, and to use their opportunities and resources for meeting new needs as they arise by the growing and shifting popula-tions of the hour.

With our church the case was entirely different. We began at the bottom—socially, spiritually, eoclesiasti-°ally. We had first to rear the edifice of a great evan-gelistic success; and then came the need and urgency of providing the material structures in which devotion, fellowship, teaching, might maintain and extend the success already won. The very success of the work be-came its difficulty and embarrassment. Originating in a fervid open.air evangelism among the masses of the people, as men were won to Christ, and formed into churches, the need for places of worship became im-perative. The hundreds and thousands of small so-cieties called into existence must be housed somehow. Permanent worship in the open-air was impossible, so that places of worship, either rented or built, became a necessity of the young community's continued existence.

The difficulties, however, were great. The people were poor, and yet out of their poverty each congregation had to attempt the acquisition of some suitable place of wor-ship. Sites in central positions were, no doubt, costly, beyond the means and possibly also beyond the ambi-tions of the people. It need, therefore, cause no sur-prise to note that rented rooms were largely used, and that only slowly were these replaced by permanent structures, purchased or erected by congregations wor-shipping in them. In 1847 there were 1,421 chapels, and 8,340 rented chapels and rooms; while in 1868 the figures were chapels 8,235, and rented rooms 3,034. Pos-sibly considerable losses resulted from the precarious tendency of a rented building, and enormous efforts were made by these young churches to substitute for a building held on rent, and probably ill-adapted to its purpose, one held in trust for the Connexion, and built expressly for worship and Christian service.

Rev. H. B. Kendall, B.A., in the 'History of the Primitive Methodist Church; assigns 1847 as the be-ginning of the chapel building era. This is, no doubt, accurate, but the structures built during the next quar-ter of a century, though numerous, must have been comparatively small. Unfortunately, reliable statistics of the annual outlay on Connexional property were not published in the Conference Minutes till 1871. The following table will indicate the development of this department since that date:—

In the figures for 1870 the Colonial statistics are in-cluded, as there seems no means of accurately ascertain-ing the exact position of the Colonial churches on several of the items in this table. In 1870 Canada had 202 Connexional chapels valued at £40,000, or an average of £200 each, and 156 other preaching places. Assum-ing that the figures from Australia were similar, we might deduct from the figures of 1870, say 400 con-nexional chapels from the 8,107 then reported, so as to give us the position of the Home Districts at that date. In all the other figures of this table subsequent to 1870, the Colonial statistics have been eliminated.

These are remarkable figures, and they suggest a variety of deductions, many of them extremely gratify. ing, but others calling for serious refleotion. First, the number of chapels has increased in thirty-five years from 3,107 to 4,413, or 41 per cent. There are also 492 'other Chapels and Rooms '—a total of 4,905. Allowing 700 as the probable number abstracted by the exclusion of Colonial reports, there is a decrease in the number of preaching places of 664 from the figures of 1868. This fact may be accounted for by the cessation of preaching in cottages, farmhouses, and temporary buildings; but we fear it also indicates retirement from hundreds of villages where formerly we had substantial causes. Secondly, there has been a marvellous acceleration in the rate of chapel building since 1870. During the first sixty years of our history we spend one million sterling; during the last thirty-five years we have spent nearly four millions; so that we have moved about seven times as quickly during the latter as during the earlier period. Thirdly, the proportion of cash raised to costs incurred has made enormous advance. During the earlier period one-half the cost was left as debt; during the latter about five-sixths of the cost incurred was raised, and only one-sixth of the additional outlay added to the existing debt. Then, we owed ten shillings on every pound ex-pended; to-day, notwithstanding that the property has increased nearly five fold, we have as debt less than five shillings for each pound spent. Happily, also, this debt is being reduced at the rate of nearly £1,000 per week. Fourthly, while the number of our chapels has increased about forty per cent., the percentage of cost is about nine times this increase, proving that we have built larger and more commodious structure in much better situa-tions. The average cost of our ohapels in 1870 was £323; in 1895 the average is £1,071, or over three times as much. Fifthly, it is evident still that we are largely a village community, and that the immense preponder-anoe of our ohapels are comparatively small. In 1870 the average sitting accommodation of our chapels was 203; in 1905 it is only 234. The enormous increase in outlay has meant not so much larger as better buildings.

No review of our century's progress in chapel affairs would be complete that did not note, however briefly, the part that connexional administration has had in both stimulating and restraining, in guiding and helping this part of our work. It was early found to be neces-sary to restrain too impulsive action in building chapels,

210 THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. APRIL 4, 1907.

and to check reckless expenditure. A limit on the amount of debt to be left was fixed. First (1843) one-third of the cost must be raised ; then one-half, and one-fourth be in hand before permission was to be given to begin to build. In 1845 District Building Com-mittees were created to superintend and control these matters. It is however on the side of stimulus and help that the most splendid work of Connexional Chapel ad-ministration has been done. In 1847 the General Chapel Fund was created for the purpose of rendering financial help to distressed chapels, and in its sixty years of work few of our funds have done better though its income has never been large. The Chapel Loan Fund commemorates the Centenary of the birth of Hugh Bourne. For many years its capital was small, but with the grant of £10,000 from the Jubilee Fund it entered on a career of most valuable service to our trust estates. Its capital to-day is £13,670. The Insurance Company was created in :1866, and not only has it effectively done the work for which it was called into existence, but has accumulated a reserve fund of £34,000, besides helping local chapel funds to, the ex-tent of £23,000. The Chapel Aid Association originated in 1889 and is undoubtedly one of the best institutions our church possesses to-day.

It has received in deposits £420,000, lent the same to trustees at an easy rate of interest, and during its short life, trustees, through its agency, have reduced their debts £250,000. The London Church and School Building Fund for its limited income has done a good work. The Church Extension Fund, the youngest of our Connexional institutions of this kind, is yet in its infancy, but enough has been done to prove that in as-sisting connexional enlargement it is one of the most promising our church has ever had. It is to-day helping one hundred and sixty cases of which over one hundred are entirely new. Such is the century's re-cord of chapel building and chapel administration, and it may be confidently claimed to be one that would do credit to any Free Church in the land. It speaks of devotion and self-sacrifice, of intelligent initiative and persistent energy, of keen insight and effective admin-istration, and is a memorial to the work of men who have understanding of the times to know what Israel ought to do.—T. MITCHELL.

In Memoriam. Mr. Bryan Hodgson.

ANOTHER heavy affliction has come upon the Crook society in the death of the society steward, Mr. Bryan Hodgson. On March 16th, after a painful illness of a fortnight's duration, Mr. Hodgson passed away at the age of forty-seven. He was cradled in our church at Crook, and has never been associated with any other. He was a well-known and highly respected tradesman. His father was one of the original trustees of the Dawson Street chapel, and the family is one of the oldest of our church in the District. He was not amongst those who serve the church in a public capacity, but of those equally good and faithful souls who serve iu quiet ways. He ever manifested the truest fidelity and devotion to the church of his choice. He had admirable personal qualities that made him respected and beloved by all. He was a man without a spark of selfishness in his nature. The Rev. T. Elliott in a letter to the family truly observed: We all feel we have lost a friend. He was always so kind, always the same unselfish man who looked after his own interests last. The high respect in which he was held was manifested all along the route to the church and cemetery. All the tradesmen's blinds were drawn and a great gathering of townsfolk assembled at the funeral, conducted by the Revs. F. Hobson and J. W. Middlemise. He leaves a widow and six children to mourn his lose.

Mr. T. Waldren. Br the death of Mr. Thomas Waldren, the Micheldever circuit has lost one of its most useful officials. He passed to hie eternal nome on February 11th, after a few days of intense suffering. Ms remains were laid to rest in the N. Waltham churchyard on February 16th. Many sorrowing friends gathered at the graveside, where an address was given by Mr. C. Myland, of Basingstoke, who testified to the love and esteem in which he was held, not only in the Micheldever, but also in the Basing-stoke and other circuits. Bro. Waldren was converted at the age of thirty. He joined the church at North Waltham, where for over thirty years he was the leader of the Society Class, and was much beloved. As a local preacher he excelled. In this capacity he laboured hard. His sermons gave evidence of careful preparation together with a knowledge of the Bible and other literature. His was no slipshod ministry. Preach-i was to him a delightful occupation, and the people looked forward to his coming. He has gone, but hie work and the memory of his life remain. A widow over eighty years of age remains to mourn his loss, and expects the reunion soon.

Mr. Robert Laidler. ROBERT LAIDLER died at Tweedmouth in groat peace on Feb. 15th, aged 69. Converted in his 20th year, he at once bent all energy into the cultivation of acquaintance with the word of God and prayer, and into the development of a truly Chris-tian character. He became universally esteemed and admired f x his uprightness and sincerity. His services to the church for upwards of 45 years as local preacher and circuit official were far beyond the ordinary record. He is remembered as a very able expositor of the New Testament, a faithful servant

of Jesus Christ, and one upon whose loyalty and friendship the ministers could always depend. For the last two years his health failed, but spiritually he dwelt in' Beulah Land ' during this winter. At Christmas-tide he received the token that his Lord was about to call him, and on the fourth day of his sickness he entered the Celestial City. He was fo'lowed to the grave by a large company, representative of the beet worth of the community. ' Out Of our band of young men converted in the revival 50 years ago in the good old town of Berwick-upon Tweed (writes Mr. W. M. Patterson), I have said all my life long that Robert Laidler was the ablest, and his fidelity to his Lord in sunshine and in storm has been a frequent subject of remark by many and is a beautiful heritage.'

Mr. John Case. THE Jersey society has loot another of its saintly veterans, in the person of Mr. John Case, who passed away in his ninetieth year on March 1st. With unswerving devotion he served the church at Aquila Road for over sixty years. God's house was exceedingly dear to him. He was an old-type Methodist, and especially in the prayer meetings was not afraid to shout 'Amen' and 'Bless the Lord.' He lived the fall Christian life, happy, bright, and cheerful. Trouble, sickness, and sorrow neither clouded his vision nor embittered his feelings. He was very zealous in all that concerned the Church, and in its early history be has travelled many times to the outlying districts to assist in open. air work. He was a diligent class leader, trustee, and steward of the church, an ardent lover of its young life, and a kind friend. His confidence in God was firm to the last. On the Sunday before his death he expressed the hope of soon seeing his saintly wife, who had predeceased him by some years. He has left the priceless legacy to his family of an unsullied Christian life and example, and to his church an inspiring devotion for his Master. He leaves two married daughters. One of his sone in-law is the Rev. R. R. Connell, and the other Mr. J. Bailey, a local preacher of Aquila Road Church.

Personal. WE deeply regret to learn of the death of Mrs. Arthur

Whittaker, of Leeds, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. J. J. Turner, of Southfield. The loss is attended with all the greater sad-ness as after a married life of a year and nine months, and on the occasion of the birth of her first child, she should thus be called away. The babe survives. Mr. Whittaker is vice-president of the Endeavbur, Mr. and Mrs. Turner are among our best workers, Mr. Turner being school secretary, Mrs. Turner a class leader and president of the Adult Bible class. Great sympathy towards the bereaved husband and Mr. and Mrs. Turner has been evoked. A service attended by a large number was held in Southfield chapel on Tuesday afternoon, April 2nd, conducted by Rev. M. M. Kelley.

AFTER stiff contests Councillors H. Phipps andH. Dronfield, Chesterfield First, and Councillor W. Dann, Chesterfield Third, have been returned as Guardians. Mr. Phipps has won a sig-nal victory.

Ma. J. B. WALKER has been elected to a seat on the Howden District Council. He headed the poll, defeating a churchman who had sat on the Council for 25 years. Mr. Walker was converted in Mr. Shakesby's mission about 18 months ago, and has been a consistent member and worker in the church since. As society steward, he has rendered the minister great help in the extensive alterations be has so carried out, also in the installation of a two manual organ, of which Mr. Almer Walker is the organist.

THE reoent Guardians and District Council Elections in Cumberland have resulted in the election of a number of enthusiastic Primitive Methodists. At Maryport, in the East Ward no fewer than four Primitive Methodists were returned out of six, viz , Messrs. Coulthard, Brown, Head, and Bland. At Harrington where seven members were required, the num-ber of Primitive ethodists returned was the highly 'satisfac-tory number of four, viz., Messrs. P. T. Corris, the retiring chairman; L. Ferguson, circuit steward; T. Crellin, local preacher; and J. Broadbent, choirmaster. In the Whitehaven Guardians election, where thirteen candidates stood for nine seats, among the old members re-elected was Mr. J Jenkinson, who has for many years been a local preacher, class leader and school teacher. At Cleator Moor, Mr. C. T. Kearton, circuit steward of the Whitehaven station, was re-elected to the Dis-trict Council. Mr. E. Gregory, a circuit and district official, was again elected to the Cockermouth Board of Guardians.

MR. JOHN WM. YATES, one of our esteemed local preachers in the Buxton circuit, who has for many years been our cir-cuit secretary, has again been eleoted one of the councillors of the Buxton Urban Council. Mr. Yates had two opponents, but he headed the poll by a very large majority.

MR. JOHN LOMAS, another esteemed local preacher and the society steward of our Upper End society, has also been elect-ed a member of the Wormhill Urban Council.

A NOTE received from the Rev. R. Fairley informs us that Miss Sarah Barleycorn, daughter of the Rev. W. N. Barley-corn, of Fernando Po, arrived, in the s s. Aro,' at Plymouth, on Saturday. During the voyage she was in the care of Mr. F. Wilson, a friendly merchant from the island. She expects to remain two years in this country, and will make her home with the Rev. R. and Mrs. Fairley, of Chelmsford, who will see to her education.

Ma. Jona HADFIELD, local preacher in Sheffield Third cir-cuit, has been returned for the seventh time on the Sheffield Board of Guardians, polling 150 votes more than his opponent, a Roman Catholic priest.

Court. Thomas HAMFLETT, J.P., a respected local preacher in the St. Helene circuit, has been elected a member of the Board of Guardians. This public recognition of his sympathy with the toiler and the unfortunate follows close upon his elevation to the magisterial bench.

AT the election of Guardians at Middlesbrough, on Wed-nesday last, Mr. J. Dickinson, a local preacher and official at Gilkes Street, who had served a previous term of three years, was again successful. There were three candidates, but Mr. Dickinson came out at the head of the poll, a token of the confidence and esteem in which as a Primitive Methodist he is held.

FREE CHURCH NEWS AND NOTES.

Lay Workers Training.

Our F.C. Representatives.

Free Church Patience Tried.

EASTER Monday, with perfect weather, was a great der.* Cliff College, in the village of Calver, Derbyshire. With becoming Methodist ceremony the Thomas Champnees Me-morial' wing of the Wesleyan Lay Workers' Training Home and Mission was opened.

It is delightfully situated—three miles from a railway station. For some years, under the able direction of the Rev. Thomas Cook, a great work, each as Mr. Odell attempted in Birmingham, has been carried on. Encouraged by success and liberality, plans for extension have been matured. A new wing, costing £7,000, added, and an extension to the College chapel, costing £600, and a new house for the Rev. S. Chad-wick, who leaves Leeds to lecture in the College, have 'all been paid for, the last L700 being raised on Monday. Mr. Cook believes that all the money has come in answer to prayer. But he is practical, and Bent out 20,000 appeals for the last £1,000. He explained that 16,000 letters had been received, mostly with money, from the common people.'

The accommodation is for one hundred local preacher stud-ents. They will stay in residence for six months only. I have not seen any building so attractive and complete for its pur-pose. Mr. Chadwick's new house, costing £1,200, has a mag-nificent view across the Derbyshire hills—a contrast, indeed, to Leeds, where he has spent so much of his strenuous life.

Dr. Pope prreided at the luncheon in the absence of the Wesleyan President, who was not ill, but too tired to attend,. After Mrs. H. J. Pope had opened the door into the new wing' an open-air meeting, attended by some 2,000 people, was held on the lawn.

Speaking of Wesleyan matters reminds me that a Confereri-tial Committee appointed for the purpose has unanirnouslY resolved on a modified basis of church membership. If the proposed legislation is adopted, as it most likely will be, attenti-ance at class will not be essential for enrolment. What has long been more or less &farce will be wiped from the ' Consoli-dated Minutes.'

The Rev. Arthur Jackson Smith, of Tunstall, informs me that the Hon. C. M. Luke, the local preacher who attended the Scarborough Conference, has been elected a member elf the New Zealand Parliament, and his eon has just attained the degree of LL.D.

At the first meeting of the newly elected Executive of this National Free Church Council, the Rev. J. Pickett, General Missionary Secretary, and Mr. E. C. Rawlings, Mayor cif Hammersmith, were co-opted. These, with the Rev. A. T. Gattery, Mr. W. P. Hartley, J.P., Dr. Peake, and R. H. Mani-field, M.P., are the Primitive Methodist representatives. The Rev. J. Travis, as a Past-President, is an ex-officio member.

The regretted resignation of the Rev. Thomas Spurgeon froth the Tabernacle pulpit on the ground of ill-health recalls a little family history.

It seems that the Spurgeons settled in England at a very early date. One Elizabeth Spurgeon had her marriage certifi-cate witnessed by Lord Nelson when a boy of ten years of age.

Mr. C. F. Aked, whose send-off meeting is being held in Liverpool next Monday, will not be among the least interested and amused by a cartoon appearing in the New York 'Puck' designed to picture the scene that may take place on the quay at New York when he arrives in America. Foremost in the crowd of worthies to meet him are shown Mr. JohnD. Rocke-feller, his son, and Mr. H. H. Rogers. They are singing from the 'Standard' hymns the 'Oilmeter Sockdology,' the follow-ing lines:—

Praise Oil, from which all blessings flow! Praise Oil, ye grafters here below Praise it all ye Standard codgers! Praise father, eon, and H. H. Rogers!

During the singing of the ' hymn ' several detectives crawl in to serve subpoenas.

The Rev. T. Law, who expects to be at Mr. Aked's wel come meeting in New York, is to address several meetings In America, and have the opportunity of seeing the great succeis of Gipsy Smith's mission in the States.

•••••••-•-•

Dr. Rendel Harris, in addition to the Summer School In Cambridge, will hold a Welsh Convention in Aberystwith in June.

Free Churchmen are awaiting the Government's Ednoatimial policy with deepening anxiety. We are getting well into the second year of the present Parliament, and educationally we are exactly where the tender mercies of Mr. Arthur Balfour left us.

Meanwhile police-court scenes, distraint, and imprisonment go on. There can only be one issue. Nonconformist prin-ciples are bound to triumph, whatever politicians or Govern-ments go down.

The Congregational Year Book shows that 373 chtuchis are without pastors and 251 ministers without churches. To an outsider there is need for some ecclesiastical statesmanship by which these could be brought together.—H. J. T.

APRIL 4, 1907 THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. 211

Table Talk. '• Margaret Weston's Love Story—the first of a series 'Osbert 'stories under the title of ' Chronicles of Heath-ercliff,' by Miss C. E. Doe—will appear in the' Leader' on Thursday next, April I I th.

Wushall be pleased to forward a prepaid copy of the Leader mataining Miss Doe's first story upon the receipt of name and

'address of any non-subscriber.

'Ma. W. P. HARTLEY, J.P., has been for the last three weeks staying at Llandrindod Wells, drinking the waters, and by onch,rest and recreation as he could obtain seeking the physi-cal refreshment and strength he so much needed. And we are delighted to hear, not Vrithout 'success. He looks well, and is generally fresh and fit for the busy seaman that lies before him. The news that he has taken the treasurership of the Centenary Fund has given great delight to all our people. His name is a guarantee of success, and we have every reason to know that he is just as keenly interested in it as in any of the other great schemes to which he has set his hand.

• PROF. PEAKS has spent his Easter holidays at Southport.

On the Sunday he worshipped with our people in their new and beautiful church, when the Rev. J. T. Barkby preached to large congregations. In the evening Prof. Peake gave an address at the Communion service, which was greatly enjoyed. We are glad to hear that our friend is now much better than be has been for some time past. He is a very great asset to our church, and we hope our churches will spare him as much as possible.

* *

AN incident illustrative of the temper that still dominates the average Anglican, and expresses itself where it has the audacity, was witnessed last week in the ancient city of Chester. The Mayor of Chester, Alderman John Jones, J.P., is a Primitive Methodist, and has had a long and honourable career in Chester both in civic and business life. Solicited on several occasions to become Mayor, he has hitherto refused, but after the tragic death of the Mayor elected last November, Alder-

. man. Jones consented to fill the unexpected vacancy. Out of r?ayect to the deceased Mayor, Alderman Jones, after his elec-Iron, deferred his official visit to his own church until the early spring. He recently intimated his arrangement to visit his own church, the well known George Street church, on Sunday next, April 7th, and that his old and intimate friend, the Rev. Seines Travis, would be the preacher on the occasion. All Ws, _as was to be expected in Chester, was in perfect accord with 'bath the sentiment and desire of the City Council.

* * * IN George Street, near to our church, are the Diocesan day

schools, and the Town Clerk wrote the Rev. E. C. Lowndes, vicar of St. Oswald's, asking that the members of the council might be allowed to use the rooms for the robing of the Alder-men and Councillors prior to their going to George Street Chapel. The reply of the vicar wag read to the council by the Town Clerk last Wednesday, and was as follows Whilst l'ailouldthoW all personal c mrtesy to the Mayor and Corpora-tion, I regret that I cannot grant the use of the Diocesan school on Sunday, April 7th, for the purpose explained in your letter of yesterday, as that purpose appears to me to be directly op-posed to the object f or which the Diocesan School was built. Yours faithfully, ERNEST C. LOWNDES2

Now, no one can say that the vicar is not frank and straight-forward, that he mystifies his meaning in a cloud of words.

. 1 The schools were not built for that purpose.' Certainly not. The Diocesan Schools were not built to allow Nonconforming Aldermen and Conacillors to robe themselves for a Primitive Methodist church service. The schools were built for the purpose of imparting definite and religions instruction, not for the purpose of being courteous to your religions neigh-bours. We judge the room would have been available for any project associated with the Anglican Church, and may have been used for lees worthy causes. But there, we do not complain, for ' bath it not been so from the beginning'? Protests were raised in the Council Chamber at the snub ad-ministered, the vicar's friends suggesting that he had acted impulsively, etc., etc. The Mayor took the dignified attitude, saying, other arrangements had been satisfactorily made. Mr. Egerton Gilbert, a member of the Council, and who must be a wag, moved the order of the day, which proved to be the reception of a Committee's report on sewering.

A Two-MILLION Penny Scheme. Such is the new and bold undertaking initiated by that intrepid worker, the Rev. G. W. King, of the Central Hall, Bradford. Mr. King has studied the art of raising money, and has found out the secret. He applies it in the instance under consideration. Upon the Central Hall, Bradford, there is the heavy burden of a debt approaching £8,000. Mr. King now proposes its extinction. This is eminently desirable, and if the Hall is to take its tree place as a great centre of regenerating forces the debt extinction is necessary. We have painted out before that the Central Hall is the best appointed suite of premises we have for Mission work, yet here, where we have the most "citable buildings, we have not the spiritual achievements for which the Hall was erected; this lack to a large extent is directly due to the strain caused by the raising of ways and means. We ought to see that this place is unencumbered, that the conditions are favourable to the work, that the strain of money raising now necessitated to pay interest on capital debt shall henceforth be devoted to an increase of the Mission staff for the work that needs to be done.

* * WITH commendable ingenuity Mr. King has issued a dainty

oulleoting book, filled with penny squares, and he is now rely-ing upon all friends of the Mission rendering some service,

ooly to a small degree. Mr. King has had warm expres-sions of sympathy with his project from the Mayor of Brad-ford, the President of the Conference, Alderman Brearley, LP" Mr. R. Fletcher, J.P., and many others. The work

involved would appal many, while to some it would simply be forbidding. All the more should we rally round the leader of this campaign and show him that we still admire pluck and sanctified audacity. Only those who know the great domestic sorrow in the prolonged and painful affliction of his devoted wife can rightly estimate what this undertaking means to Mr. King at this juncture. He carries more than one burden. .Again, all the more should we cheer him.

* * *

IT will certainly be a unique occasion if, as is hoped, the whole of the Primitive Methodist M.P.s are present at the mass meeting to be held at Hanley, in the Victoria Hall, on Saturday, May 25th, in connection with the Centenary celebra-tion. And for this attendance there is every ground of a reasonable expectation. Mr. Enoch Edwards, M.P., the mem-ber for the division, has consented to preside. Messrs. H. R. Mansfield, J. Johnson, A. Richardson, J. W. Taylor, D. J. Shackleton, and W. E. Harvey have already promised to be present, and it is hoped that Mr. John Wilson, Mr. C. Fenwick, and Mr. L. L. Morse will also be able to attend. Such an array of Primitive Methodist Members of Parliament would illustrate in a most striking way, not only the growth of our church, but what it hag done for the working class community during the century of its existence.

Clacurre are rapidly shaping their plans for the Centenary celebration, as the numerous quarterly meeting reports testify. Manchester S xth reports its intention to raise a fund of £1,500, £1,200 of which has already been promised. Nelson Circuit proposes a new Centenary Church in Walvenden, a suburban district of Nelson, and to lay the foundation stones on the Cen-tenary Camp Meeting Day, May 31st. Among the most cheer-ioglitems of many good ones is that Brinkworth circuit proposes a circuit scheme of £1,000. For Brinkworth Circuit to achieve such a project, remembering that it is essentially rural and agricultural, is one of the most daring we have heard. By the side of this the quarter of a million for the connexion is by no means large.

* * * A VISITOR to Liverpool writes that he was delighted to find

on one of the famous flag newspaper stalls in that city the Primitive Methodist Leader prominently displayed. These street stalls are found in the vicinity of the great Shipping Offices, Docks, and Cotton Exchange, and abounding with nearly every variety of modern journalism have quite a spec-tacular effect. He is now looking for it on the Railway Book- stalls.

Tali Scott Memorial C

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hurch, Norwich, is projecting a bold scheme to extinguish their remaining debt of about £2,000 in the next four years. For a church of 100 members thore is something heroic in the mere thought.

TEE latest honour of Professor Peake has attracted consid-erable attention in Coventry and the local papers have contain-ed articles on his career. While at Coventry Dr. Peaks won the blue ribbon of the Grammar School—a scholarship tenable for three years at St. John's College,Oxford. A proposal has been publicly mooted to secure an enlarged photograph of the Professor to adorn the walls of his old college.

* * *

Tea Missionary Committee have revised their offer of financial assistance to the Wolverton New Chapel Scheme by promising an additional £100 on condition that an additional sum of £200 be raised. The Committee now offer £300 pro-viding the sum of £600 be raised.

As some evidence of the activity of our church in the North of England and its prominence in the publio mind, a correspondent informs us that on a recent week he counted between 20 and 30 items of Primitive Methodist news in one northern daily paper. This, we understand, is not a rare hap-pening, for seldom does this particular paper appear without a Primitive Methodist item in it. Our sturdy friends in the north are to be congratulated that their doings deserve so much notice.

Tax Rev. E. W. Smith was present at the Missionary Executive on Thursday last, and received a warm welcome. The Committee were glad to find that both Mr. and Mrs. Smith were in good health. Great expectations are enter-tained through Mr. Smith's. advocacy of miasionary work up and down the country.

Tim Isle of Man Endeavourers are busily completing their arrangements for the annual Whit-week convention to be held at Douglas. It is anticipated that 1,500 delegates will be present, for whom hospitality is being provided; in addi-tion seven or eight thousand non-delegate Endeavourers are expected to be in attendance. The programme of the meet-ings provided by the National Council is up to its usual at-tractiveness. The Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday of Whit-week will be devoted to excursions by land and sea.

* * * Timm is now some doubt as to whether the Poole circuit

or Bournemouth circuit will become the purchaser of the Public Hall at Parkstone. Should it be arranged for the Bournemouth station to purchase the hall, then the help pre-viously promised by the Missionary Committee to Poole will be given to Bournemouth.

* * * SIEADY improvement in the condition of the Rev. W. Jones

Davies is reported. Mr. Davies is still at Lae Palmas, Grand Canary, but is looking forward hopefully to return to England about April 20th. He has considerably benefitted by the rest and change, and is feeling better than he has done for some time. His numerous friends will be glad to see him home again, especially so if with his return good health comes with him.

* *

AYTAR the return of the Foreign Missionary Deputation from visiting Fernando Po hopes were entertained that suit-able overtures to the Spanish Government might lead to the re-opening of our day schools on the Island. The Missionary

Secretary has recently received a note from Senor Bosch, Chief of the Colonial Section at Madrid, conveying the intimation that the application for the re-opening of the may schools has not been granted.

* * Time Rev. Joseph Prestwich, of Blackpool, has been appoint-

ed by the Prison Commissioners of the Home Office, London, as a special visitor to prisoners in Lancashire and Yorkshire prisons. This is a work for which Mr. Prestwich is eminently adapted; the visits he has already made to the cells of prison-ers and the addresses he has given have borne fruit in a re-markable way. Mr. Prestwich is the first of our ministers ap-pointed to this work. He has a sphere wherein, we trust, he will continue to exercise a beneficial ministry.

* * *

Tax Missionary Committee have received with profound regret the intimation that John Effa Hassey, native teacher of Jamestown Mission, has been separated from the church. It is hoped, however, that the difficulty occasioned by the sepa-ration may soon be overcome.

o e 0

SPEAKING at Sheffield last Wednesday Dr. Clifford said, ' When they tell me that we need a House to revise what is done in the Lower House, I say, 'Yes, but for revision you want brains! You want capacity. And if you go to the House of Lords and take about sixty or seventy men out of it, what have you left? I would rather go to a Primitive Methodist local preachers' meeting as a revising chamber than to that assembly, and I believe they would do their work a great deal better.'

Tux Missionary Committee have appointed Rev. J. Pickett delegate to the Missions District Meeting, the Rev. J. Smith being vice.

We are pleased to learn that Rev. Joseph Johnson, superin-tendent of the South-East London Mission, last week headed the poll in the Sr.. George's Ward of the parish of St. George the Martyr at ti el lion of Guardians for the Southwark Union. There were 10 candidates for 3 seats, among them being an influential clergyman of the Church of England and other prominent persons, and to the credit of Mr. Johnson, and as some indication of the growing influence of this mission in this vast neighbourhood, without any personal canvassing by Mr. Johnson, or any of his colleagues, and without any public meetings to promote his candidature, Mr. Johnson, throwing himself absolutely on the suffrages of the people, was elected at the head of the poll. Having had six years previous expe-rience as guardian of a London Union, Mr. Johnson will be able to bring to his additional duties valuable knowledge and aptitude which will still further increase the beneficial influence of his ministry to the poor of this neighbourhood.

• • • A CORRESPONDENT writes:—Are we making fewer members

than in recent years, or are we becoming more cautious? We hear of circuits with members in reserve numbering from 60 to 100. Oar fathers were more venturesome. Perhaps it might be wise to make a clearer distinction between members approved and members on trial, and levy only on the former.

A SUPERINTENDENT m

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inister seeking information for his Temperance schedules received the following reply:—' We do not know of any real Total Abstainers in our schooL' We are evidently a long way from the millenium. '

IN connection with the recent Guardians election for King-ston-upon-Hull, Mr. Mason Fenvriok headed the poll for the Queen's ward and Mr. A. E. Sipling was the highest but one in Coltman ward. Both are officials in the Hull Fourth cir-cuit, Mr. Fenwick having had a long and honourable career at Great Thornton Street, while Mr. Sipling is now worthily filling the position of circuit steward.

ComnsaAsti gratification is felt in Southport with the decision of Miss Hartley to engage in local municipal service. She has been returned, without a contest, as a member of the Board of Guardians for the ward in which she resides. Mr. A. G. Wareing, of the High Park church, also has been re-turned unopposed, and Mr. T. Marshall, a popular local preacher of the Marshside oirouit, after a sharp fight against the sitting member, will represent a constituency he has known through-out his life.

IT is rarely that father and son are members of the same Town Council, but we record with pleasure the fact that at the recent election for Bromsgrove Council Mr. W. J. Lead-better and his son, Mr. J. Leadbetter, secured seats. Mr. J. Leadbetter headed the poll out of thirty candidates. Mr. W. J. Leadbetter, who is a highly-esteemed local preacher, was for 15 years a member of the now defunct School Board, and is the father of the Rev. W. G. Leadbetter.

Mn. FRANK Nam, the esteemed circuit steward of Chalfont St. Giles, has been returned at the head of the poll as district councillor and guardian for the Chalfont Division. Messrs. W. E. Nash and Fred Lane, also members of our Church, have secured top positions as parish councillors.

Corrsmixon A. RHODES, local preacher, Dawley and Made-ley circuit, was returned at head of the poll for the Dawley District. He has secured this position three times in succession. Councillor B. Maddox and Mr. G. Windsor, both local preach-ers in the same circuit, were elected for the Iron Bridge Die-trict of the same union.

e Ma. HENRY SMART, circuit steward of Oxford circuit, has

been eleoted, without opposition, Guardian of the Poor for the St. Giles' Ward.

The ' Primitive Methodist Leader' may be ordered through any Newsagent or

at Railway Bookstalls.

212 THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. APRIL 4, 1907

' THE BATTLE FOR THE SCHOOLS.'

By Rev. A. T. Guttery.

' THE IRISH TYRANNY'!

IT seems likely that the Liberal Government will live in his-tory as having a majority phenomenal in bulk, combined with a spirit of the utmost meekness. It marks time most grace-fully, and while the nation is waiting for great and far-reach. ing reforms, it spends its days discuseing Army Reform and the amendment of parliamentary procedure, interspersed with vague threats of the terrible things it is going to do with the Lords in some distant day. It is almost eager to tern its cheek to the smiter, and even the rejection of a Clause IV. does not move it to strenuous anger. It regards with pathetic respect the votes of the Irish and Labour groups; it is most anxious not to displease the clergy, but the Nonconformists are put off with pious platitudes, and are expected to be con-tent with a Resisters' Relief Bill, the true reason being that our two hundred representatives in the House of Commons have not learned yet how to smite. When they do, they will be more respected. This excessive meekness is in danger of being misunderstood. It makes the enemy more arrogant and alarms supporters of the Government who imagined that the advent of so mighty a majority to power meant the courage-ous advancement of far-reaching reforms.

It is in this temper that the Government is facing Irish questions, and it is only too probable that here it will find its disasters thick and fast. The Roman Catholics are already boasting that Mr. John Redmond has the Liberal Party at his heel, and there is rejoicing that a section of the House can afford to flout English proposals of the Government, and yet find it ready to obey the whip. It is not pleasant to read the following words in the ' Catholic Times,'—' The concession of self-government is demanded with practical unanimity by Bis-hops, priests, politicians and people in Ireland.' To English readers it is offensive that a political demand should find its chief spokesmen in the clergy, and that the people oome last, and very much last. This paper says that English Catholics are looking to Mr. Redmond to preserve their schools, and that in return they should support him in his domination of Liber-alism in the matter of Home Rule. ' With an integrity of pur-pose and a nobility of escrifioe which does him and his col-leagues infinite credit, the Irish leader has net hesitated, in defence of our Catholic schools, to resist and oppose at every step, and by all means in his power, the educational schemes of that very Government from which he expects a measure of justice for Ireland. Have English Catholics no duty of grati-tude in return? ' A little further in the same leading article the editor says, 'The best day for us, the Catholics in England, will be the day that sees the concession of Home Rule in Ire-land.' The sting of these passages in their truth, for all men are coming to the conclusion that the very men who most violently oppose the Government in its most vital ambitions, are the men to whom it will yield with the beat grace it may. If I could reach the Government, I would warn it that its ex-cessive meekness is very much like weakness, and is filling its stoutest apologists with dismay. And I would assure Liberal politicians that this constant emphasis on Catholic claims and this undue terror of the Catholic vote is likely to alienate Eng-land, whioh after all is Protestant, and to bring tragic disaster upon men who profess to be democratic, but who allow the cleric to be arrogant at the expense of the citizen. The action of the Irish Party on education has burnt into the very souls of Free Churchmen, and thousanda of us have serious doubts whether any party so subservient to priestly domination ought to have their powers of mischief increased. It is not pleasant to write these lines, but we cannot forget that we are in our present wretched educational plight through the action of Ireland. The Nationalists were Mr. Balfour's willing tools, and they are now the foes of Liberalism when it seeks to rid us of intolerable fetters. Ireland can wait, Ireland ought to wait, till justice is established in our day schools.

We are in danger of seeing a pitiable surrender of vital principles in the matter of Irish Education. It is true that in this matter Ireland lags far behind, but the blame lies with the Irish Party, who at any time, if they had wished, could have secured a system equal to that of Scotland; but here they obey the priests who dread education and who will not have it at any price if it involves popular control. Mr. Birrell said the other day that no one would be able 'in any way to secure popular control over schools in Ireland '; then we answer, He must give no education that does not involve that vital principle. These men believe in Home Rule as long as it does not mean Home Rule in the schools; they talk loud-ly and insincerely here about 'the rights of parents'; there, they mean the power of the priests. It is true that the Irish schools are small, excessively duplicated, ill kept and ill staffed, and all because they are under the hands of the priests. These men are to blame for the fact that in Ireland there are 8,659 schools for 742,000 scholars, while in Scotland there are only 3,244 schools for 804,000 scholars. This is proved by the fact thatin Ireland out of 8,659 schools, 7,656 of them are under 2,699 clerical managers; that is, one priest is absolute in his control of three schools upon the average. To us this position is intolerable. If the Government by financial aid gives fur-ther countenance to this system, against which all the civil-ized world protests, then it will arose a revolt among Free Churchmen that will seal its doom.

France, Italy, and America have driven the priests out of the schools, and we are strong enough to tell the Government that it shall not be allowed to run in the teeth, of every prin-ciple that is democratic and civic. The grace of meekness is worthy of all honour in its right place, but in the rough and tumble of politics our leaders should take care lest it be so exaggerated as to seem very much like pitiable and even cowardly weakness. Never had a Government a greater opportunity than this; it has the authority of an unexampled e:ectoral victory, it is strong in the piety of its opinions and the excellence of its promises, let it bathe its spirit in the fires of a courage that will fire its friends wi.h euthusiasui, its foes with dread, and make the victory of many morrows sure and glorious.

CENTENARY LITERATURE.

By Rev. R. W. Keightley. Tin Centenary Committee, and the writers of the several book-lets, are to be heartily congratulated upon the quality and suit-ability of these issues. All aspects of our work are dealt with, and all stages of our connexional development are cleverly sketched. The striking feature in some of these books is the large quantity of information contained in such a small space, and set out in such a racy and popular style. Books for the Young.

In ' Our Fathers and the Children,' Rev. S. S. Henshaw tells the story of the interest of Bourne and Clowes in the young. The 'samples ' of Bourne's sermons to children are full of in-terest and charm. Proof is oho given that as early as 1830 the nurture of the spiritual life of young disciples was pro-vided for, and their admission to church membership was care-fully sought. Clowes, though not so prominent a friend of the children as Bourne, was still very solicitous about their con-version and spiritual growth. Our vast Sunday school machin-ery is the natural, though perhaps the rather late, outcome of the passion of our Founders for the children, and our interest in general education is the continuance and enlargement of theirs.

Another book for the young is The Miraculous River,' by Rev. J. Day Thompson. Here we have a penny history of our church, as well as a most luminous interpretation of Ezekiel's vision. The parallel between the two rivers in their small be-ginning, increasing volume, far-reaching course, and fertiliz-ing effects, is beautifully drawn, while interwoven with the story are many of the most heroic incidents, successes, and per-secutions associated with our history. The evangelistic suc-cesses of Ride, Russell, Spoor, and others sparkle with interest and throb with meaning. Willie Wilkinson's interview with the ' Deuk ' of Cleveland is one lof the raciest things ever written. Here are 32 pages of the most thrilling matter, clear-ly printed, and containing several striking illustrations. Centenary Series, Nos. I, 2, 4, 5, and 6,

In 'Slum Evangelism in Darkest London,' and 'Saved 1 yet so as by Fire,' the Rev. J. Flanagan tells of his being commissioned by the Conference of 1891 (misprinted 1901) to London, and how he commenced operations in the slums of the south-east. His first Sabbath congregations totalled 73 persons; twelve years later the 'Daily News' census reported 1,205 worshippers present, not including other meetings in which between 700 and 800 others were present. Fifteen years ago we owned ne property, now we have an estate worth £21,000, and all paid for. How the Gospel has triumphed over the vices and comforted the sorrows of the poor, Mr. Flanagan describes in his own graphic way. Humour and pathos, despair and hope, sin and saintliness, human need and Divine grace, meet each other in these brief pages. In the worst conditions, and among the worst people, the Gospel is 'the power of God unto salvation.' Primitive Methodist vic-tories in London slums are by no means the least which stand to our credit as a church.

Village Methodism: Toile, Trials, and Triumphs,' by the Rev. W. A. Hammond, ie a charming chronicle. The author has spent many years among the villages of East Anglia, and knows well the subject on which he writes. The triumphs of the Gospel among the ill-paid toilers of rural England of eighty years ago read like another edition of the Acts of the Apostles. William Braithwaite, Robert Key, James Jackson, and others, were giants of moral strength and courage. How social reform, industrial order, national progress, and moral transformation have sprung from the labours of our fathers Mr. Hammond clearly shows. Many a pithy story and amus• ing incident point the moral and adorn the tale. Rough men have been taken from the public house, the cockpit, and the fighting ring, and by Divine grace transformed into good husbands and fathers, respectable citizens, and many of them have become leaders of men in moral, social, and political life.

'Mow Cop: the Birthplace of British Camp Meetings,' is the title of the No. 5, written by Rev. A. A. Birchenough. The story of Camp Meetings is the origin of Primitive Methodism. So far as we can see they stand related as cause and effect. No camp meeting, no Primitive Methodism. For both Bourne and Clowes were cast out by the Werileyans for no other reaeen than that they would not cease to favour open-air preaching. The part played by our founders and Lorenzo Dow, Daniel Shubotham, Captain Anderson, Dr. E. Johnson, Eleazar Ha-thorn, the wooden-legged preacher,' and many others in these wonderful gatherings is told with great simplicity and force. All who desire to know the circumstances of our birth should read Mr. Birchenough's little book.

No. 6 of the Centenary series tells a two-fold story. Rev. J. Odell gives first a vivid description of How the Ratby Wake was killed.' Ratby is a Leicestershire village, situated within a few miles of the county town. A great revival of religion broke out there, many were converted. But old heads, some wise, and some foolish, feared or hoped the Wake' would kill the revival. But the revival killed the ' Wake.' Drunkenness and evil revelry of every kind had marked the ' Wake' for many years. Publicans and showmen were at length defeated, and virtue and truth gained the ascendancy. But the story should be read.

The second half of Mr. Odell's story concerns his father and Rev. Henry Higgineon. It is full of piquant interest from beginning to end. The glimpse we get of Mr. Higginson make us share the writer's regret that no biography of this great, mighty, yet singular man has been written. Mr. W. Odell was converted under his ministry, and travelled much with him and was often of great service to him as his ' body-guard.' The narrative is full of freshness and inspiration. A Short History of our Church.

In' What Hath God Wrought ! ' we have the largest of the Centenary books. To say that the Rev. H. B. Kendall, B.A., our connexional historian, is the author, is to secure for it a warm welcome from all who know his other volumes. In this book of 88 pages Mr. Kendall traces our growth from its be-ginning to the present time. This chronicle of miraculous growth is full of literary grace, and pregnant with startling facts. All who would understand the cause or causes of our origin will find the information here. The apostolic men and women who have made our history are portrayed with artistic skill. Those who are too poor to buy, or too buoy to read the

larger history, should procure this book and appropriate its contents. It has a message for the heart as well as for the mind of our church to-day. For Centenary addressee an abund-ance of material is herein supplied. All our members and ad-herents should make baste to read it.

We could have wished that fewer abreviations had been employed, as they may puzzle the uninitiated. On page 81 ' Nottingham Conference' should read Norwich Conference.'

The Centenary Literature above noted is all most excellent. Its price brings it within the reach of all.

Fourpence will buy Mr. Kendall's book. One penny ' The Miraculous River,' and the others are offered at a half-penny each, or 3s. per hundred.

The loyalty of our members will be all the stronger when the facts of our history are more generally known and under-stood. The methods of other days may er may not be suit-able for our time, but the moral heroism and the passionate devotion of our fathers were never more neoessary. ' A double portion' of their spirit would make our Eliahaa what God de-mands and the world needs.

LOCAL PREACHERS' ASSOCIATIONS.

The New Theology Discussed.

AN interesting and vigorous discussion of what is termed the New Theology took place recently in the Durham Road Church, Gateshead. The meeting was under the auspices of the Gates-head Local Preachers' Association, and was largely attended. Mr. R. Gray (president) occupied the chair. The subject was introduced by Mr. J. Hewitt in an ably-written paper. The various aspects of the New Theology, which has been so pro-minently brought before the public of late, were touched upon by the essayist, his attitude being largely in favour of Mr. Campbell's position.

The Rev. Geo. Forstner opened what proved to be an inter-esting discussion. Whilst agreeing with Mr. Hewitt on cer-tain minor points, Mr. Forstner was at variance with him on what he termed very deep questions,' and which required weighty consideration, enough to cause thoughtful minds to pause. Two of these were the Virgin Birth and the Atone-ment. With regard to the first he agreed that belief in a virgin birth has never had a very large place in Methodist or even Nonconformist theology. But he might point out that the trend of modern scholarship was altogether in favour of the establishment of Luke as a credible historian. Luke was a trained man, a man of science, one who was able to sift evi-dence and the charge of incapacity that might be brought against a witness like Peter could not be brought against a man like Luke. Besides, there was no phyeiologioal impos-sibility in the matter at all. As a matter of fact, virgin birth actually took place in the lower order of existence over and over again, and there was therefore no impossibility from the point of view of physiology.

The speakers subsequently taking part confined themselves almost exclusively to the subjects of sin and the atonement. One speaker pointed out that all the talk about the Atonement was quite unnecessary because the logical outcome of the New Theology was that there there was no sin at all. If God was really immanent in man in the sense that the new theo-logians seemed to infer, then he failed to see why they can speak of sin at all. Another speaker said he was waiting for some one to outline the old theological position to-day on the doctrine of the Atonement. If the old theologians repudiated the position of the New Theologians, what had they to put in its place ? He questioned if there was a man who would put forth his ideas on the old theology. Both sides of the ques-tion were strenuously supported, and as many were desirous of expressing their views it was decided to adjourn the meeting.

FRANCO-BRITI SH EXHIBITION (1908) AT SHEPHERD'S BUSH.

Enormous Drinking Facilities Granted.

IT appears that the Ecclesiastical Commissioners have granted on a lengthened lease to Mr. Imre Kiralfy about ninety-eight acres of land adjoining Wood Lane, Shepherd's Bash, London, in close proximity to the Wormwood &rabbit Prison, and that after several unsuccessful attempts he—or someone acting un-der him—has secured a provisional license without a limit as to time. It is proposed upon this area of land to hold a Franco-British Exhibition in 1908 There seems to be no authority behind the scheme save that of a few individuals in London. Seventy-three acres of the ninety-eight are to be appropriated to outdoor sports and gardens, and twenty-five acres for the ex-hibition buildings. Of these twenty-five acres of buildings one-eighth (over three acres) are to be licensed for drink. That an enormous trade in strong drink is anticipated and is prob-able may be concluded from the fact that the monopoly value of this provisional license is put at £5,000, and only by one vote escaped being fixed at £10,000. The drinking facilities include nine bars, with counters 769 feet long, and six cafes, with 312 feet of bare.

The grant does not become operative until it has been con-firmed by the County Licensing Committee, and the London United Temperance Council and other bodies continue ear-nestly to oppose the privilege. We trust public opinion may be strong enough to defeat the proposal. Exhibitions are possible without the association of drinking saloons and their attendant evils. The whole of London is concerned, for its frequenters will come from all parts of the metropolis, brought hither by the exceptional travelling facilities afforded In fact, the whole country is concerned, for it is intended to run excursions for the purpose from all parts of the country. Monopoly value may be paid, but nothing can compensate a mother or father for the ruin of an innocent country lase that they allowed to journey hither with a confidence that has been sadly abused, and a final effort must be made to obtain the re-jection of the license.

NOTES FROM NEW ZEALAND.

A DOUBLE coincidence marks the New Zealand Confers nce, of which reports are just to hand. The sessions were held in the church at New Plymouth, where the first Primitive Methodist missionary opened his commission, and later built the first chapel in the colony. The vo'e for the presidency gave a unanimous call to the Rev. C. E. Ward, the son of the Rev. R. Ward, the pioneer missionary. The new president is a thorough-going colonial, a characteristic our colonial friends are learning to value even more highly than in past days. He has enjoyed all the honours the Church can confer upon him, and now enters upon the highest appointment with the good-will of all the churches and the prospect of a year of consider-able activity and success.

Forward l is the motto of New Zealand. Steady increase was reported for the various departments of church life. Six-teen new preaching places have been opened during the year, and the flow of Primidve Methodists to the is'and, with the increasing tide of emigration, at once calls for and promises further enterprise in the same direction. The increase of Sun-day school scholars not being up to the mark desired by the Conference, a scheme was adopted for a big effort to secure an addition of 1,000 to the roll during the year.

0

The Conference expressed its profound gratitude to God for an increase of 172 members, the total being 2,822, and for the increase of denominational adherents in the colony, the report of the census published during the sittings of the Conference showing a total of 21,796 persons who return themselves as Primitive Methodists, this being an increase in five years of 11,653.

Several important questions affecting the ministry were be-fore the Conference. One, initiated by the la3 men, touched preachers' stipends. The rapidly increasing cost of com-modities in the colony necessitated, the promoters averred, a more generous provision for the travelling preachers, espe-cially those residing in the populous cities. For the assistance of candidates and probationers a course of correspondence tuition was provided, and a further step taken in the direc-tion of securing for colonial young men who wish to enter the ministry an adequate training at the Dunedin university.

*

Several changes were made in the list of ministers. The Rev. J. Nixon, of New Plymouth, was granted a year's rest. Four probationers received ordination, and two candidates were appointed to stations. In twelve months' time the Rev. W. Laycock will return to the home Conference, and Rev. W. Roberts, of Ealing, will enter the colonial work. The Rev. G. W. Smailes' resignation of the ministry was accepted, he hav-ing entered the profession of journalism.

Flanagan is coming ! With joyful expectation that word passed from one to another during theconference. For several years rumours, invitations, and assurances have alternately tuned the colonial mind. At last it is a fact, and, health being given, the popular missioner will towards the end of the year learn the warmth of a colonial welcome. Mr. Flanagan's visi-tat;on of the churches is expected to be fruitful in more ways than one. No doubt the evangelistic sprit will be stimulated. But the colonial churches are accustomed to distinguished visitors from the home land, whose flying ministry yet has an important bearing upon church life and prestige, especially in the less populated districts. There is no misgiving over the financial responsibility, but to place the matter beyond doubt, a guarantee fund was opened, and £265 readily promised.

The Conference sessions and the public meetings have been en inspiration, and the influence of them will be carried by delegates to the churches both near and remote.

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THE PRIMITIVE METHODIST LEADER. 213

OUR OLDEST MEMBERS.

The Oldest Married Couple in England IN the early days of March this year the London 'Morning Leader' contained the portraits of Mr. and Mrs. Laurance, of Epperstone, near Nottingham, their ages being 92 and 91 respectively. Mr. and Mrs. Laurance were married on May Day 1835, 72 years ago, in the village church of Epperstone, and are reputed to be the eldest married couple in the country. Both have had a very hard struggle all through their career. Mrs. Laurance says she bad to go to work when she was eight years old. After she was married she had to work in the fields ten hours a day, and then had to walk two miles to her home. She remembers the 'good old times' when flour was four shillings a stone, and sugar fourteen pence a pound. Their staple diet in those hard days consisted of potatoes and salt. Occasionally there was a herring on Sundays, which was regarded as a luxury. They have reared a family of ten.

Mr. and Mrs. Laurence were members at Oxton, in the Not-tingham Fifth circuit, before it was made a Branch, they hav-ing joined the church during the time when the Venerable William Price, now of Cleethorpes, was stationed there as a young man, nearly sixty years ago. Mr. and Mrs. Laurance are now in receipt of parish relief, and are residing with a widowed daughter, who is in her seventieth year. The March quafterly meeting of the Nottingham Fifth circuit resolved to render the aged pair some little assistance, Mr. W. J. Reed, of Bnlwell, being appointed to solioit aid from the churches in the station. It is hoped by the minister of the circuit, the Rev. G. W. Hancock, and the officials, that a little help may also be forthcoming from those who sympathise with this aged couple, so that in their advanced years they may have the comforts necessary.

AFRICAN MEDICAL MISSION.

Grimsby Endeavourers Helping. LAST year the Christian Endeavourers belonging to our churches in Grimsby united to make the first effort on behalf of aggressive missionary work in Africa. The object last year was to initiate some effort for supporting the proposal to commence a medical mission, which Mr. Hartley has promised generously to support. Their second effort, which was made last Thursday, was devoted to the same purpose. The speak-ers secured were Rev. James Pickett and Alderman Linfield, J.P. Their messages proved full of helpfulness, and must have kindled new enthusiasm for the missionary cause. Messrs. T. Ross and C. W. Barker made ideal chairmen. Much interest was manifest in both afternoon and evening meetings. Several of the C.E. Societies, notably Cleethorpes and Victoria Street, rendered great service. Mr. Joseph Barker and Mr. Thomas Robinson also liberally helped by cheques. The Revs. J. Goldthorpe, J. Dobson, and J. Hodges also took part in the proceedings. After paying expenses over £41 is to be forwarded for this noble project, which many hope will soon be commenced. The Rev. John Brad-bury and Mr. Fyfe, who have acted as secretaries, heartily thanked all who had helped.

The Rev. A. T. Guttery, M.P. ?

To the Editor of the PRIMITIVI METHODIST LEADER.

Stu.—One of the first things for which I always look in your welcome paper is Mr. Guttery's article on The Battle for the Schools.' All through this long and bitter controversy I have not seen any articles so wise and so strong as those Mr. Gut-tery has written. He has not only laid our church under a greater debt of gratitude, but the whole of the Free Churches, and, indeed, a still larger constituency outside all the churches. His articles have appealed for a national settlement, and have been characterised by breadth of outlook and wise statesman-ship.

As have read the article this week, ' Cromwell Wanted I' I have been led to enquire whether Cromwell has nctbeen given to us in the person of Mr. Guttery himsel. He combines the militant ?pint of the soldier with the firm grip of the sta' es-man and the spiritual insight of the seer. Though he stands in the front ranks as a fighter, he has the inward vision of the ethical issues that are at stake. I should like to ask whether it is a task beyond the statesmanship of our church to make it possible for Mr. Guttery to go into the House of Commons for the next three years ? It is there supremely that the fight will have to be. The nation is ready to follow a wise and a strong lead. We have been educating the country for years. The nation is waiting for Cromwell. Such a man as Mr. Cita-tory in the Council Chamber is the need of the hour.

I know what a loss the above suggestion would mean to us as a church. As one of the rank and file I am prepared to make the sacrifice. I am persuaded that any loss we might sustain would be forgotten in the immense gain that would result to the nation. I cannot conceive of any greater honour for our Church than to have supplied the man that should influ-ence and guide the country to a national settlement of this burning question.

Were it needful to appeal to our own Church upon of her ground I would remind myself that no other Church has suffered so much as ourselves from the iniquitous Education Acts of recent years. No other Church stands to gain more from a wise and fair settlement.

Leeds. Yours, W. M. KELLEY.

WESTBOURNE PARK PERMANENT BUILDING SOCIETY.

(Insaforattal at Ray. Dr. CHtfard's Clairck.1 SAFE AND SOUND SECURITY FOR AVINGS.

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136 WESTECCRNE TERRACE, LGNEC N, W Apply for Prorpcotts. C. ‘101-NEYONE 13I.RT. See.

In the School Circle. By Rev W. Spedding.

— — A VERY successful and interesting Essay Competition has re-cently taken place in the Gateshead Day School on Physical Deterioration and Alcoholism.' The object of the competition was to draw the attention of the children and their parents to a large and striking poster on this particular subject which had been published throughout the town. A requisition signed by the Rector, the Catholic Priest, the President of the Free Church Council, the President of the Christian Endeav-our Union, the President of the Sunday School Union, and a leading Rechabite, was presented to the Education Committee with the result that the competition was permitted to take place in the various schools of the borough. The head mas-ters gave lessons on the subject of the posters and more than 5,000 children wrote essay..

Councillor Robert Bowran has very happily compiled and published a souvenir of the competition in the form of a bright and racy little book of twenty-four pages, well printed and arranged. It contains a mass of valuable temperance facts and figures, with pertinent extracts from the beet essays written by the children. The extracts are remarkably good and reveal a high standard of intelligence among the young people, while the competition, so generally discussed in the community, and especially in home, must inevitably secure the best temperance results. Prizes and souvenir cards were gen-erously given by the Mayor.

Councillor Robert Bowran. Councillor Bowran is a member of a family of young Prim-

itive Methodist stalwarts' includir g the Rev. J. G. Bowran, of

literary fame. He has filled most of the positions open to laymen, and has been circuit steward, Sunday school superin-tendent, trust treasurer, etc. For over twenty years he has been choir master at the Prince Consort Road church, Gates-head, where his attendance has been so regular that in all probability he has been more frequently at the Sunday ser-vices than any person connected with the church. His work in connection with the Northern Choral Union is well-known. Last year he was vice-chairman of the District Meeting, and for four years he has been President of the Gateshead Sun-day School Union. A man of versatile gifts, he has filled many diutinguished position?, and there doubtless await him still larger spheres of publio service.

The souvenir containe a number of quaint extracts from the children's essays, some of which are very amusing. Take the following as specimens:—

' Alcohol is useful, but not in the body. It is useful for ' polishing furniture."

I hope I never touch drink till I am dead.' ' A man who takes alcoholic drinks can see two things at

once! 'Some men take alcoholic drinks till they burst.' ' When a man takes alcohol he can hardly speak without

getting Lis tongue into some sort of a ravel.' ' The children of drunkards are often weak, and are some-

times troubled with being bow-legged.' Those who take drink are not so broad-chested as they were

100 years ago.' ' Alcohol paints a man's nose red for a danger signal." 'The drunkard goes on drinking till be cannot stand on his

own lege.' The more temporary we live, the better it will be for body

and mind.' 'Alcohol warms the body for a time at the expense of the

'inside.' 'Some people say it etingeth like a serpent and bites like a

lion.' 'Children who have parents older than themselves, who are

in the habit of drinking alcoholic drinks, are nearly ale aye the first children to have diseases.'

The men who drink alcohol are not so tall as those who dou't drink it.'

The man goes and spends all his money on drink till he !vs nothing left, and then he goes and sells Ifs furniture, and when that is all sold he begins to steal. This shows that alcohol is a poikon."

' When a man gets drunk, his brains will not telegraph properly,'

SPECIAL NOTICE.

NEXT week Miss C. E. Doe will commence a series of charming Methodist Idylls, entitled, 'Chronicles of Heatheroliff.' The first—' Margaret Western's Love Story '—will introduce the reader to a typical village Methodist, who narrates the love-making of Margaret and the heroism of the young minister who had won her.

Miss Doe's story, ' Moreton Hall,' which ran through last year's Alderagate, gave much gratification to her readers and left the impression that fascinating as the story was there were unmistakable indications that she was but entering into her realm as a writer. ' Chron-icles of Heatheroliff' will enhance her reputation and will bring moments of exhilaration and delight to the reader. 'Margaret Weston's Love Story,' next week, April 11th.