commodious school; and while offering to John Whittaker, Esq., an expression of gratitude for the generosity and zeal displayed in its erection, and for the able manner in which he has occupied the chair this evening, it would also pray that a gracious Providence may continue to smile upon him, and that this institution may prove an abundant blessing to the inhabitants of the village."

Mr. Whittaker suitably acknowledged the vote of thanks thus presented, and at ten o'clock the meeting broke up. During the evening the choir sang a number of very appropriate and interesting pieces, which added much to the enjoyment of the meeting; and on the whole this inaugural meeting passed off with satisfaction and pleasure. We have attended, and that in the village of Hurst, meetings of a more noisy and enthusiastic character, but none in which there have been more perfect order and more real pleasure. There was a quiet satisfaction rather than a wild excitement a deep and hallowed joy rather than impassioned outbursts of adulatory praise. A point had been attained in the history of Hurst from which we could conveniently review the past and anticipate the future. Changes, improvements, progresses, were vividly recalled; and having now accomplished a work of which the earlier inhabitants of the village never dreamt, and which had now been impossible but for the influence of one man, earnest gratitude was mingled with cheerful hope; and while rejoicing in the actual possession of a building which is not equalled by any similar building in the neighbourhood, there was also a profound conviction of the responsibilities connected with its future management. By speakers and hearers the two ideas were instinctively joined, and as the result, both the intellectual and emotional in human nature were operated upon; and as the meeting had long been anticipated with fervent prayer and pious joy, so it will long be remembered with holy gratitude and divine satisfaction.

On Sunday afternoon, January 2nd, 1859, a procession took place from the old to the new school, when about 800 scholars and 200 teachers were present, besides a considerable number of the inhabitants of the village. After singing and prayer, Mr. Whittaker made some appropriate remarks to parents,

teachers, and children, pointing out the purposes for which the school had been erected, and requesting the active co-operation of all friends. He also gave special prominence to the fact, that on both week days and Sundays the school will be open for children of all denominations and classes; but that on a Sunday it will be under the management of the Methodist New Connexion. After a few words from the Revs. J. Poxon and T. Cartwright, and Mr. J. Coop, the benediction was pronounced, and all returned home apparently delighted that on the first Sabbath in a new year they had commenced operations in a new and beautiful school. In erecting such a school Mr. Whittaker has erected a monument for himself, which will stand in succeeding ages, and has provided means for the diffusion of education in the present and the future. His services deserve a grateful acknowledgment; his example is worthy of general imitation; and well will it be for the Connexion if other individuals wealth and influence will emulate his generosity and zeal, and in their respective localities endeavour to raise temples to the Lord, and institutions for humanity, which shall combine elegance and comfort, freedom from debt, and effective operation and control. T. C.

Higher Hurst.

of

RE-OPENING OF NEW RADFORD CHAPEL, NOTTINGHAM CIRCUIT.-Our old chapel, situate in Chapel-street, in New Radford, has been relinquished. A few months ago a society of Methodists, worshipping in Independentstreet, desired to become a part of our circuit.

The quarterly meeting cordially received them. The friends at once resolved to enlarge the chapel and to beautify it, so as to render it commodious and attractive. Their resolve has been carried out, and the architectural arrangements have been efficiently superintended by Mr. R. C. Sutton of this town. The chapel was re-opened for public worship on Sunday, December 19th, when the Rev. Dr. Crofts of Huddersfield preached two able sermons in the morning and evening, and the Rev. S. M'All (Independent), preached a sermon in the afternoon. The congregations at each of the above services were excellent, and in the evening_overflowing. On Monday evening, December 20th, a

H

tea party was held in the chapel. At the public meeting afterwards John Bradley, Esq., took the chair, and spirited addresses were delivered by the Revs. H. O. Crofts, D.D., P. J. Wright, J. Bate, B. M. Scott, and R. C. Turner. The choir, assisted by members of the Nottingham Choral Society, enlivened the proceedings with pieces of sacred music. On Tuesday evening, December 21st, a sermon was preached by the Rev. J. Matheson, B.A. (Independent). The collections taken at the re-opening services, together with subscriptions, amount to £140. Our society is increasing; the Chapel is secured to the Connexion, and will be in easy circumstances, the sittings are letting well, there is a flourishing Sunday school, and our prospects in this populous neighbourhood are better than they have been for many years past. Prayer, untiring industry, and faith in God will secure for us here a pleasing interest. J. BATE.

TEA MEETING AT HANLEY.- On Monday afternoon a large tea-party, numbering about 1,100, was held in the Bethesda School-rooms, Hanley, and after tea a public meeting was held in the chapel, at which about 2,000 persons were present. The meeting was of a valedictory character, in connec tion with the visit of Mr. Caughey, the celebrated American revivalist, and who has been holding public religious services at Hanley for eight or nine weeks, and one week at Newcastle. The services have usually been remarkably well attended. The meeting having been opened in the usual form, by singing and prayer, J. Ridgway, Esq. was unanimously called to the chair. He said that he had often appeared before audiences in that place with greater strength of body, but never with more pleasure of mind. He felt truly thankful to God, who had so far restored him from his recent affliction as to enable him to occupy such a position as he held among them. They had not met to talk about commerce or politicsthough he would not have them think he had no relish for such things-but they had other things just now to occupy their attention; they had to think of their eternal welfare. The greatest and most important thing for man on earth was to have "Christ in him the hope of glory;" he was thus prepared for a life of usefulness, a happy death, and a blissful immortality.

He observed that the late revival had been a very seasonable thing for the Bethesda Society; they had long been too lukewarm, and wanted life and fire. He was glad Mr. Caughey had paid them this visit. When over in 'England some years ago he requested him to visit the Potteries, and Mr. Caughey did not do as some people would, or as Mr. Spurgeon had lately done, namely, send back his letter to be interpreted; but he returned a very polite answer, promising to remember them, and right glad he was that he had now fulfilled his promise. He felt grateful to the Father of Mercies, who had crowned the labours of his servant with such great success. Especially was he thankful that there were so many young men brought to God. These were just the persons who were wanted; they were the workers, and there was no lack of work for them to do. The Rev. C. Bootman, in a very appropriate and effective speech, then moved the first resolution "That this meeting of Christian brethren regard the visit of the Rev. James Caughey to this place as peculiarly providential, and rejoices that it has pleased Almighty God to crown his labours and the labours of his fellow-servants with a large measure of success, for which all present desire to render to the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost the glory and praise,'

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which was seconded by Mr. W. Lawton, of the White Barn. resolutions of a similar character were passed, in the moving and seconding of which the Rev. T. Masterman, Mr. J. Hawley, Mr. J. Dickson, Mr. Baxter, Mr. Moore, Mr. Wear, Mr. Mart, and the Rev. A. M'Curdy took part. The Rev. A. M'Curdy, in moving the vote of thanks to Mr. Caughey, spoke in the highest terms of Mr. Caughey's character as a man and as a Christian. He had had much private intercourse with him during his sojourn in this neighbourhood, and had never heard him utter a word nor seen him perform an action at all inconsistent with his high professions. The Rev. James Caughey, in acknowledging the vote of thanks, said that one of the resolutions which had been passed said “that this meeting will individually feel it their duty to defend this glorious revival against all mistaken and uncharitable aspersions." But he trusted more to the young converts themselves than to any others for its defence-they must defend it by their consistent lives.

We live (said he) in an age of progress -there is an amazing stir in the commercial world-and the countries of the world are being bound together by the electric wire. Nor would I speak a word against the rapid movements of the wheels of science and commerce; but I do deprecate to my heart's core the instability of religious professors. God requires that we shall continue in well-doing; he does not value us according to a mere spasmodic effort, but according to a life of labours. There is a great difference in persons who are brought to God: some, having found salvation, persevere; while others are soon turned out of the way. I believe that all the difference is in this-that some serve God from mere feeling, while others do it from principle. What is principle? It is the voluntary adoption of a rule of right. In minor matters it is gentle and yielding; but in matters of conscience, and in things relating to God, it is firm and unbending, like the sturdy oak of your English hills. I have sometimes likened the two classes of religious professors to two kinds of vessels-the one sailing out only when there is a fair gale, but driven backward when the wind is contrary; while the other is like the steamer, having its moving power within, and sailing against wind and tide. I remember sailing from Liverpool to Dublin in a slow-sailing vessel; I soon fell asleep, and while I slept a storm arose, but I heard it not.

When

I awoke in the morning, a man came down into the cabin, and I asked "How far are we from Dublin?" "Nay," said he, "ask how far from Liverpool. We have had a terrible storm all night, and the wind is now blowing big guns." "Well, but how goes the vessel?" "Just like this-the storm without roars 'No! no!' but the engine inside the vessel says, feebly it may be, but not uncertainly, 'Yes! yes!' and here we are, making two miles and a half an hour." Young Christian, be like that vessel. While the storm of temptation says, angrily, "No!" still within your own breast, under all besetments, say "Yes! yes!' After thanking the audience for the hearty welcome they had given him, and referring especially to the kindness of his host, J. Ridgway, Esq., the rev. gentleman sat down amid loud and prolonged applause. The usual votes of thanks to the ladies, the chairman, &c., were then passed, and the meeting

terminated with the singing of the Doxology.

The last of the services in connection with this remarkable visit was held on Tuesday evening, when Mr. Caughey preached to a crowded congregation. At the close of the service the rev. gentleman took occasion to address some very appropriate and seasonable observations to the congregation, and particularly to the new converts; and gathering warmth and eloquence as he proceeded, he made a solemn avowal of his intention to dedicate his life to secure a crown of glory in heaven, and called upon those present who could join him in this object to stand up. Immediately the vast audience simultaneously arose, under the influence of overpowering feeling. For a moment they stood, then bent the head in the attitude of prayer, and speedily the most unmistakable signs of deep emotion were manifested everywhere.

The

-scene was one of the most solemn and touching ever witnessed, and can never be effaced from the minds of those who were present.

GOOD WORK AT YARMOUTH.-My dear Sir, I doubt not that you will rejoice to hear that Yarmouth, as well as some other parts of the Connexion, is in an improving state. We found at our January quarterly meeting we had an increase both in members and persons on trial; six persons have united with us since the quarterly meeting. Our finances are also in a satisfactory state, our congregation is improving, aad we have let additional sittings this quarter. Last year we took 15 large magazines, this year 28; last year we took about 90 Juveniles, this year 200. Since our school anniversary the school, which was in a languishing condition, has so increased that we have scarcely room for the children, so that we shall have to enlarge our borders or refuse to admit more children. These tokens for good are both pleasing and encouraging. For this improved state of things we cannot be sufficiently thankful to the Great Head of the Church. "This is the Lord's doing, and it is marvellous in our eyes." To his great name be all the glory, and may he speedily make us so many more as we are! Yours very affectionately, WILLIAM PACEY.

Jan, 19th, 1859.

TUNSTALL CHAPEL, BURSLEM CIRCUIT.-Mr. Editor,-Our new chapel at Tunstall an account of the opening services of which will be found in the February magazine for the year 1858after having been closed for five weeks, in order that it might be painted and improved in various respects, was reopened on Sabbath day, Sept. 19th, 1858, by the Rev. H. Watts, and on Sabbath day, Sept. 26th, by the Rev. E. Bootman. Also on Monday afternoon, Sept. 27th, a public tea meeting was held, when near 400 sat down to partake of "the cup which cheers but not inebriates." After tea John Ridgway, Esq. presided, in the absence of J. Whittaker, Esq., who was expected, and the meeting was addressed by the Revs. C. Bootman, E. Ruddock (Independent), S. Jones, T. Close, and Messrs. J. Dixon, J. Watkin, and J. Alcock. The cost of painting, including a new clock, and various other improvements, is about £100. The collections, proceeds of the tea meeting, and donations, including a donation of £25 from J. Whittaker, Esq., are £70, leaving a deficiency of £30. The congregation is increasing; thirty more sittings have been let since the reopening.

January 11th, 1859.

[This report should have reached us much earlier.-ED.]

DR. CROFTS' REPLY TO REV. J. H. ROBINSON.

DEAR BROTHER,-Having carefully examined the paragraph in my article on a Mission to the Heathen, in which Mr. Robinson says I have not done justice to the expansion of our Canadian Mission, I cannot agree with him in his conclusions. Any one who reads the whole paragraph in my article will see that I have done ample justice on that head. Up to the year 1857, if my memory serves me for I have not time to go through the minutes-the number of members was little more than in 1851. The openings of Goderich, Morris, Grey, and Guelph in the west had their drawbacks in the giving up of Henrys. burgh, Durham, Bolton, and Stukely in the east. Colchester was old ground, and originally belonged to the Howard circuit, formerly called the western mission; and Montreal was decided to be opened by the Conference of 1851, but postponed for a short period; and both the chapels there have been opened since 1856, if I am right in my remem

brances of that happy event. My statement is substantially correct. Into details I did not deem it right or expedient to enter; and I now repeat the statement that Mr. Robinson was "prevented breaking up fresh ground," or, if you like it better, of expanding the mission, "by our inability to furnish him with a sufficient number of missionaries, until the Conference of 1857." One of the prominent objects of Mr. R.'s visit to this country in 1857 was to get more labourers, that he might both consolidate and expand the mission; and since then Durham and Bolton have been re-opened, and some new circuits have been formed; and the very first year after he obtained the men that were then sent out, we have the delightful facts of consolidation and expansion, which I have stated in the paragraph of which he only gives one small portion.

Into controversy, however, on this subject I will not enter; but it is only just for me to say, that I have laboured too much, given too much, and suffered too much on behalf of our Canadian Mission ever to say a word or write a line that could injure in any shape the country I love, or the interests of a mission so dear to my heart.

From first to last, since my return to this country, in the Conference, in the Missionary Committee, in the pages of the Magazine, in the pulpit, on the platform, and by the fireside, have I done the fullest justice to the labours of Mr. Robinson and the noble band of missionaries labouring in Canada; and have been among the foremost to advocate the increase of grants to every Canadian object that seemed likely to consolidate and expand our Mission there. I do, therefore, feel it hard to bear, after all I have done, for our good Canadian friends, with Mr. Robinson at their head, to think for one moment that I am for abandoning our Canadian mission. Such a thought never entered my mind, and my words must be put to the rack to make them give any such meaning.

The offending sentence on which Mr. Robinson animadverts, as I think, severely, stands thus in my article:"To the Christian churches in Canada, with only a little aid from the more opulent churches of Great Britain and the United States, we may now safely leave the work of cultivating that portion of the field of missionary labour." By" the Christian churches in Canada"

"The Church of England, the Wesley. an Methodists, the Baptists, the Presbyterians, the Methodist New Connexion, the Primitive Methodists, the Bible Christians, and the French Canadian Missionary Society, have all laboured to spread the knowledge of the Saviour's name in that land," &c. To these, "only with a little aid from the more opulent churches in Great Britain, and the United States, we may safely leave the work," &c. Mr. Robinson says, "The bearing of these words is unmistakable."

Now I tell Mr. Robinson that he for one has totally mistaken the meaning of my words. My words apply as much to the Church of England, Wesleyans, Baptists, Presbyterians, Primitive Methodists, &c., as ever they do to the British Connexion, as he calls our community in this country; yea, moreover, to the opulent churches belonging to these bodies in the United States, as well as Great Britain. What these bodies intend to do, I know not; but I do know that it is not the intention of our community to withdraw "only the little aid" we are rendering to the Canadian mission; for the aid we render is "only little," and has been so for years, when the magnitude of the work and the number of missionaries are considered. About £1,000 per year, and not always that, is little indeed; and notwithstanding all Mr. R. says, our mission in Canada could never have been sustained if the resources of the people in Canada had not been great, and had not been deI mean those mentioned by name in the preceding paragraph but one.

veloped. I repeat again, that "To the Christian churches in Canada, with only a little aid from the more opulent churches in Great Britain and the United States, we may safely leave the cultivation of that portion of the field of missionary labour;" for Canada, as a country, is now tolerably well supplied with missionaries, when contrasted with the heathen world, of which I was specially writing. It does not now so loudly call upon us for special help, as does the heathen world. My judgment is now what it was when I wrote the article on "A Mission to the Heathen," that we, as a body of Christians, can do all that is needed for our mission in Canada, and send a mission to the heathen as well. The one may be done without leaving the other undone.

Mr. Robinson has no right to leave out of his quotation from my article the words "and the United States," nor to italicise the words "little" and "safely." They are not so written by me.

I cannot believe that Mr. Robinson himself could ever so have misunderstood my words if Madame Rumour had not lent him her spectacles. Yours affectionately, H. O. CROFTS.

17, South Parade,

Huddersfield, Dec. 15th, 1858.

[We earnestly hope this little controversy between two worthy brethren may now terminate; seeing all parties here love the Canadian Mission, and feel almost as much interest in its welfare as the enterprising and devoted superintendent himself.-ED.]

A Catechism: embracing the most Important Doctrines of Christianity, designed for the use of Schools, Families, and Bible Classes. By the Rev. William Cooke, author of "Theiotes," "Christian Theology," &c., &c. London: Methodist New Connexion Book-Room, 21, Warwicklane.

We have long cherished the opinion that catechetical instruction is not, in general, sufficiently attended to. In the early ages of the Christian

Church it constituted a prominent part of the pastor's duty, and in our own day the practice prevails among the members of the Presbyterian Church in Scotland. On Sabbath evenings the whole family of children, up to the period when they leave the paternal roof, stand before their parents, and answer the questions of the Catechism, though they may have been fixed in the memory long before. We knew a pious rector of a parish church who took a Sabbath afternoon in each month