COMMON, BUT SADDENING.

BY C. H. SPURGEON.

He have seen it mentioned as a wonder, by old Puritan writers, that certain fish live in the salt sea, and yet their flesh is not salt. We have met with far greater singularities in the spiritual world, namely, men who live in a sea of grace, · and yet are not gracious. It is very saddening to see professing Christians who are not even restrained from irreligious actions by the fact that they have made a profession of godliness. They have a name to live and are dead. The Ethiopian is called a white man, but he remains as black as ever. The hovel is labeled a palace, yet no attempt is made even to keep it decently clean. We know persons who hold orthodox Opinions, and hold them firmly too, and grow warm in their defense; and yet they are not in the least degree affected by those glorious truths, but might for all practical purposes be upon the other side. We cannot make out how they can carry the heavenly fire in their bosoms, and not be burned; how they can swim in the boiling fountain of truth, and not be warmed by it. When they are in suitable company such persons will converse upon spiritual truths, and they will do so with an apparent acquaintance with them, and yet in, their ordinary lives they are as dead to spiritual realities as if there were no such things. They believe that the ungodly are perishing, but they do not warn them, and they do not appear to have any concern that they should be spoken to by others about their souls. They believe in the power of prayer, and seem pleased that others should pray, but they themselves do not draw nigh unto God, neither can they bear any kind of personal testimony to the efficiency of supplication. To all intents and purposes they are unaffected by influences which are powerful beyond all others. On a burning day we laid our hand upon a marble slab, which was exposed to the sun, and we were startled by its coldness: such are these persons. They live under a shower of grace, and’ are not wet; they grow by the rivers of water, and no dew moistens their branch. They have a form of godliness, but feel nothing of its power; they are like the statues in Westminster Abbey, which stand in their places, and bear all the outward similitude of human beings, but yet they never unite in the worship, for there is no life in them.

The picture which we have drawn will be recognized by many; in fact, by everybody except the persons who are portrayed thereby. These form a stumbling-block in the way of seeking souls, for such persons are apt to thinly: that there is no power in religion, and that it is all a form. 3f I see a martyr at the stake, surrounded by a huge fire, and if on looking again and again I perceive that he is no more consumed than he was at the first, I am sure that it is all a matter of canvas and paint, and not a real flame at all. If a man drinks, and is not refreshed; or cats, and is not filled; we soon conclude that he has partaken of unsubstantial Fare, and has been sitting at a phantom festival. It is grievous indeed when, by the inconsistency of the outwardly religious, inquirers are led to suspect that there is no reality in the gospel of our Lord Jesus. These unworthy persons also furnish very convenient excuses for those who have no wish to believe in the truth of our holy religion. In fact, they are infidel-makers on a large scale. They act as an encouragement to unbelievers, who can quote their example for ungodly conduct; thus they come under the censure of the prophet Who charged Israel with being a comfort to Sodom.

This form of insensible religiousness is occasionally seen in persons who do not profess to be saved, and we cannot help thinking that they have borrowed it from the dead Christians among whom they dwell. They observe that these professors talk without feeling, and set forth an experience which does not at all square with their conduct, and therefore these persons count it no evil to imitate \hem, and feign a repentance and a sorrow for sin which they do not feel. The following story is but a specimen of a vast number which come under the notice of watchers for men’s souls :—” Pastor R, of Elberfeld, was once sent for to see a dying man. Fe found the patient really very ill, and entered at once into an earnest conversation about the state of his soul. The patient began, in the strongest terms, to describe himself as the very chief of sinners, and declared that his past life filled him with abhorrence. He continued so long in this strain that the pastor could scarcely find an opportunity to speak. At last, taking advantage of a pause, he remarked gently, ‘ It was then really true what I heard of you?’ The patient raised himself in the bed, stared in astonishment at the pastor, and demanded,’ What, then, have you heard? No one, in truth, can say anything against me’; and con-tinned, in a, strain of unbounded self-satisfaction, to tell of his virtues, and recount all his good deeds, pouring out, at the same time, a torrent of execrations against the slanderers who had tried to injure his character. ‘ It was not from foes or slanderers,’ said the pastor, ‘ that I heard it, but from yourself; and now it grieves me to hear that you do not believe what you said.’” We were lately asked what, in our judgment, will become of these godless godly folk, these unchristian Christian people. Our reply was that we were none of us allowed to judge our fellow-men, but if it really were he case that there were persons possessing knowledge of the truth, and full acquaintance with its requirements, who nevertheless did not yield the slightest obedience to it, they must of course perish. Salt can preserve, but when salt itself has been tried in vain what remains to be done? If men cannot see in the sunlight, what more can be done for them? It is a dreadful thing to perish with the added terror of having held the truth in unrighteousness, restraining its natural force from operating upon the conscience and heart. If men dash themselves down to hell from the very rock of salvation they must be ground to powder. As to their present ,condition, these persons seem to be in greater danger than any others. It is not likely that they will ever be converted: the truth which is adapted to work that desirable end has already been brought under their notice, and it has exerted no power ewer them. In all likelihood they conclude themselves to be perfectly safe, and so they are clothed with the impenetrable armor of carnal security. Expositions and exhortations addressed to ungodly men are warded off from them by their own impression that it is well with their souls. The probability is that they will continue as they are, and sleep themselves into perdition; and perhaps, like Ignorance, in the “Pilgrim ’s Progress,” they will be ferried across the stream of death by one Vail Hope, and never discover their mistake until it is too late to amend it.

The unhappy story of the bushrangers, in Australia, will be fresh in the: memory of most of our readers. These men were in a small inn, surrounded by a body of police, and for a while they defended themselves against all comers. At last, when their number had been thinned out, their leader was seen to come forth from the house, and to advance against his adversaries with a dauntless mien. Several shots were aimed at/him,. ‘but they did not tell. He seemed to wear a charmed life; the fact being that he was encased in a kind of armor made of plough.. shares, and thus he remained secure until a ball found out a joint in his harness. How many wear a secret and invisible armor of in.. difference and self-flattery, which protects them from the salutary woundings of the Spirit! But to what a pitch of hardness must that heart be brought which is not affected by the power of the grace of God? That which lies in the fire and is not burnt must be harder than iron:, or an adamant stone. The blacksmith’s dog sleeps just under the anvil,. where the sparks fall around him; and the sea-boy, on the dizzy mast, falls asleep amid the loud roaring of the billows: even these are: beaten in their drowsiness by professors who sleep on while all around them agencies are at work which might awaken the dead.

What responsibilities belong to those who have the gospel, and yet do not allow it to operate upon them! They lie by the river, and do not drink; they sit at the table, and do not eat. If they starve they are suicides.. What is worse, they pretend both to eat and drink, and they cry up the provision to their neighbors, though they have not tasted it themselves. Whither must they go who act thus? Is hell itself punishment sufficient for men who make a mock both of law and gospel, and invite their own destruction?

Among all animals, there is not one which is more disgusting to a man than a monkey, simply because it is the image of an intelligent being without the intelligence; and among all characters there is scarcely one so objectionable as that of the external Christian, who is devoid of inward Christianity.

These are as scarecrows in a field, who deceive none but the silliest birds; or as dummies in the shop, whom every one understands to be mere pretences. Truthful men need much patience to endure them, and the time will come when no such tolerance will be expected of them. Shams will be swept out of the kingdom of truth; death will be banished from the realm of life; and those who have made no living, obedient response to the hallowed influences with which they have been favored, must be driven where none of these will be wasted upon them. A man will not long lay a stone a soak in milk, nor boil a mass of iron in water, nor dip a lump of lead in a dyevat, nor try to wash a blackamoor white: he cares not to have his best things thrown away. It is even so with the Lord our God, for it is written, “The earth, which drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them by whom it is dressed, receiveth blessing from God: but that which beareth thorns and briers is rejected, and is nigh unto cursing: whose end is to be burned.”

A LONG (?) DRIVE ON A IRISH CAR

TWO Scotch gentlemen were lately on a visit to the Emerald Isle, and visiting Dublin in their tour, they one evening left the hotel on an exploring expedition to see the beauties, as far as gaslight would let them, of the “sweet city.” Never having been in that condition before, and being unacquainted with the latitude and longitude of the place, our friends soon got benighted, and lost their way. After wandering about for a considerable time, they at last resolved, as the surest and most expeditious way of solving their difficulty, to hire a car. Accordingly, forward they went to the driver of one, and asked, “Well, Paddy, what will you take to drive us to.

Hotel?” “Five shillings, yer honor,” answered Paddy. “Ah, that’s too much; you must do it less.” After hard battling, it was ultimately agreed that halfa- crown should be the fare. So Paddy, making sure of the cash, told them to “get in,” and then coolly walked them across to the opposite side of the street, where the hotel was, to the no small mortification, and amusement also of our tourists, who were scarcely prepared to find themselves in such close proximity to the place of their abode. This reminds us of many who think they are a long way off from salvation when it is nigh to them, not even so far off as across the road. There is but a step between them and life eternal, that step a simple childlike reliance upon the Lord Jesus. They imagine that many leagues of doing, feeling, praying, and striving lie between them and the Savior, when he is standing right in front of them, and saying, “Look unto me, and be ye saved.” C. H.S.

VERY ATTENTIVE TOWARDS THE CLOSE

A VERY good little anecdote is related by Spohr in his lately-published “‘ Autobiography.” At the rehearsals of a certain oratorio of his he noticed that his little girl, eight years old, usually remained very grave and quiet until the final number, which was a fugue; then the little maiden’s eyes grew bright, and she listened with the most animated and sustained attention. Spohr fondly concluded that his daughter had a penchant for music of a severe character, and asked her about it. “Oh, no, papa,” she replied; “but I know when that piece is finished we go directly to the house for dinner”! Just so. How many hearers are watching for “lastly” as a cat waits for a mouse! That good dinner is already delighting their sense of smell, by the help of a powerful imagination. As yet, their nose is more: powerful than their heart, and the charms of a pudding are greater with them than the glories of the gospel. Well, weary ones, we must take care that we do not impose upon your patience by undue prolixity; but. you must also remember that we cannot shorten our discourses to please your fancies. Those who grudgingly yield scanty attention to our sacred message must not complain if in return we give scanty attention to their desire for short sermons C.H.S.

WARNINGS BY keeping our eyes open, and judging things upon Scriptural principles, we may often be forewarned in our dealings with certain characters., One man cannot see further into a millstone than another, and yet shrewdness sees where the ordinary observer is in the dark. A prudent man, with the fear of God before his eyes, is almost a prophet. Two or three instances are before our mind at this moment.

A gentleman went carefully into the stable where his horse was placed to bait, and he saw for himself that the proper feed of corn was in the manger.. In a few minutes’ time he was in the stable again, and the oats were gone. He taxed the hostler with taking them out, and remained while he saw his nag eat up his fair portion. How did he know that the hostler would steal the corn? He had heard him cursing, and therefore he; knew that he would steal.

A friend met the deacon of a church in the street — a man whom he much esteemed. The aforesaid deacon begged the loan of £100, and the friend would have lent it to him with pleasure; but in the course of conversation the deacon observed, “Other people might rob you; but you know me as an old pilgrim. I am, I trust, quite past temptation.” The money was refused, for the friend said to himself, “Past temptation? Past temptation? Why, he must be quite ignorant of his own heart. He must surely be a hypocrite.”

And so he was. He knew that he was hopelessly involved even when he was seeking a loan from one who could not afford to lose the money: before that day was over he had failed. “Pride goeth before destruction.” “A prating fool shall fall.” His Bible had made our friend wise, and he was saved from loss.

A man ‘who stood high in the city observed, with great satisfaction, that he had in a single morning cleared £30,000 by a speculation. A brother merchant remarked that he ought to be very grateful to Providence for such good fortune; whereupon the successful merchant snapped his fingers, and said, “Providence! pooh! that for Providence! I can do a deal better for myself than Providence can ever do for me.” He who heard the observation walked away, and resolved never to deal with such a man again except upon cash principles, for he felt sure that a crash would come sooner or later. Great was the indignation of the man who stood high in the city when he was told, “If you and I are to have dealings it must be on strictly readymoney terms.” He was insulted; he would not endure it; he would go to another house. That other house welcomed his custom, and in due time it was repaid by losing many thousands.

A tradesman chose a shopman from seeing him pick up a pin; Rowland hill would button up his coat when he heard a man swear, for he did not want to have his pocket picked: thus for good or for evil little things may be tests of character. To deal with persons who have no respect for the Sabbath is always risky; to marry a man who can repeat a lewd story is eminently perilous; to buy goods of tradesmen who are “really giving them away” is to invite deception; and to trust those who flatter you is to court delusion. Do you meet with one who tells you many of the secret faults of others? Mind that you show him none of your own which you would not wish to publish. Does he tell you what ,others have said of you? Then say nothing of others which you would not wish him to report; for as sure as you live he will repeat all that you say, with additions. All dogs that fetch will carry.

By observing such things as these, men may be saved from deceptions. The difference between one man and another, in point of prudence, mainly arises from the fact that one man learns from his blunders and another does not. When we are once taken in by a person, we ought to take his measure so exactly that he will not be able to do it again. No mouse can be excused if it is caught twice by the same eat. Yet as long as the world stands, there will remain some in it who can never see further than the end of their own noses C.H.S.

FOLLY OF DELAY ILLUSTRATED

A CERTAIN man had a long journey before him, which must needs be made in one day; for it would be impossible for him to journey mile in that country after nightfall, neither was there any place wherein he could lodge on the road. He knew right well that this journey was appointed him, and that it was his duty to perform it; and, moreover, he told his best friends that he was fully determined to set out thereon; but he thought the matter was easier than they seemed to imagine. In his stable there was a fine stud of strong and swift horses suitable for the road, and a carriage stood ready for his riding. The traveler did not set out in the early morning, for he said that there was time enough. Meanwhile, by a certain custom of the country, two of his best horses were taken for the king’s service, and this caused the traveler to look about him; but he soon quieted down, sat down to his dishes and his cups, and cried, “What’s the good of haste?” While thus engaged, more of his horses were lost, or stolen, or else they strayed, and had he then set out and kept well to his journey, he had scarce the means left to accomplish it. Still he waited with his boon companions till one way or another his horses were gone, and he had nothing left to ride upon but a single wretched jade. Then he made much ado about setting out, and meant to fly along the road at a great rate; only it so happened that while he was resolving the sun went down, and he never reached the place where he would have been rewarded with honor and profit.

The explanation of the riddle is easy. A man in his early days, with his best years before him, is so foolish as to put off the concerns of his soul till he is older. Years follow years, and yet he delays — delays even when his last, worn, and feeble age is all that remains to him, and death comes before it is welcome. Alas, that men should think to perform the most important business of all at a time when all their powers and faculties are failing!

God’s service requires all our abilities in the prime of their strength, and it is wicked as well as foolish to put him off with our leavings, and endeavor to reach heaven on a worn-out steed at the fag-end of the day. C.H.S.

NOTES All our readers know our son Thomas by his many articles in this magazine, and therefore they will excuse a father’s endeavoring to promote the interest of the work o God under his hand in New Zealand. He has. returned to us in better health than we expected.. He will probably remain in England till the beginning of November, when the fogs will give him notice to quit. Many friends have already aided him to erect his new Tabernacle in the center of the important city of Auckland; but he needs some £3000 more to enable him to open the place without debt. Like his father, he pledged himself to have no debt; and with all before him that New Zealand needs, he is wise to keep himself unhampered for doing good work in the future. Its people have none splendidly, and will continue to do so; but outside help would be very opportune. Will friends do us the great favor of helping our son’s work? They can., of course, give to the building-fund; but those who cannot do this may possibly be willing and able to give him an opportunity of preaching the gospel and taking a collection, or of lecturing in the week-days upon some interesting topic.

This is not desired where such a thing would deprive any home-work of needed funds; but where a congregation would not feel it to be a tax it would be most gratefully accepted. The time is short; arrangements will have to be made somewhat hurriedly, and carried out by friends on the spot. We put out this request, not knowing who may be mowed to reply, but believing that there are persons who judge it to be wise, to secure those new countries in the, southern hemisphere for King Jesus, and that one of the best ways of doing so is to build a substantial sanctuary for a successful preacher of the word of God.

In Memoriam . —ROBERT CURME.

— Our dear brother, Rev. Robert Curme, vicar of Sandford, Oxon, has passed to his reward. He was a sweet Christian, of calm and serene spirit, full of love, and humility, yet firm as a rock in the doctrine of grace. When the denouncer of Baptismal Regeneration was shunned by many of the clergy, one of his brethren asked Mr. Curme, “How can you spend so ranch time in company with Spurgeon?” His gentle answer was— “It-is more wonderful that he should associate with me ‘than that I should meet with him.” His love to us was wonderful, and constituted one of the joys of our life. He was beloved of all who knew him, and we were one with him in the faith which is in Christ Jesus. He passed away full of years, ripe for his rest.

GEORGE THORNILOE.

— In the Temperance world the death of Mr. George Thorniloe will cause a great gap. He was a true-hearted brother, ever zealous to rescue his fellow-men from the horrible habit of drunkenness. Will not some other champion step forward to fill his place?

On Friday evening, June 27. the annual meeting of the METROPOLITAN TABERNACLE COUNTRY MISSION was held in the lecture-hall, under the presidency of Pastor C. H. Spurgeon. Mr. Gr. Goldston, one of the Secretaries, gave a summary of the annual report, Mr. R. Hayward, the Treasurer, read the balance.-sheet, and addresses were delivered by the Chairman, by Mr. Bowker, the venerable President of the Mission, and by Messrs. J. Clark, F. Durban, J. Scoones, and J C. Travers, members of the Mission, who gave an account of the stations under their charge. The report contains particulars of the work at North Cheam, Teddington, Southgate, Bedfont, Shoreham Kent), Cranford, Feltham, Stanwell, Bell Green, Brentwood, and Kennington-road. In all these places the gospel has been regularly preached, and many souls have been won for Christ. The workers are all voluntary, and the expenditure of the Mission, which last year amounted to £169 15s. 5d., is for rent, lighting, cleaning, print-rag, traveling, etc. The offerings at the stations realized £76 3s. 10d., subscriptions from members and friends, £19 2s. 5d., we were happy to contribute £40 to the funds, and the balance, with the exception of £6 8s. 4d. due to the Treasurer, was made up by collections, pew rents, etc. The work of this Mission is needed as much as ever it was. All around London there are villages and hamlets where gospel preaching is sadly lacking. We are doing all we can to supply the want, but we could do much more if we had the men and the means. Earnest Christian young men, who love the truth, and desire to serve the Lord by publishing the glad tidings of salvation, will do well to apply to Mr. G. Goldston, 2, Stockwell-road, Clapham, S W., to whom contributions for the work may also be sent, or information with regard to openings for evangelistic effort in any district within a few miles of the metropolis.

This is perhaps the best place to mention that the sister Mission, the

METROPOLITAN TABERNACLE EVANGELISTS’ASSOCIATION, is also greatly in want of qualified preachers and singers. The indefatigable Secretary, Mr. G. E. Elvin, reminds us that on the departure of Messrs. Moody & Sankey from England in 1876, the Association offered to send Evangelists to conduct missions and special services among all the churches in London where their help was desired. From that time till now the work has been continued with marked signs of the Lord’s approval. Testimonies to the value of the Evangelists’ labors have been received from ministers of various denominationst and some churches so highly appreciate the efforts of our friends that they arrange for their services at regular intervals. Mr. Elvin is anxious that the recent visit of Messrs. Moody and Sankey should give a new start to the work of the Association, and he will not be content until every church in London has a series of special services, at least once a year, and as far as he can he will supply Evangelists whom the pastors will gratefully welcome.

If the work increases at the rate which is desired, many more workers will be required. Many of Mr. Elvin’s men have proved themselves such acceptable preachers that we have taken them into the College, and some of them are now amongst the most useful of our ministers; others have removed to different fields of labor, so that recruits are wanted; and it is hoped that among Mr. Moody’s workers and converts many will be found available for this department of Christian service. For preachers, we want men filled, with the Holy Ghost, able to tell out simply and clearly “the glorious gospel of the blessed God,” willing to give short but earnest addresses, possibly to small audiences, in various parts of London. For singers, both brethren and sisters are needed, Goal-fearing, soul-loving, with good voices, a knowledge of music, and able to sing the gospel so that all who listen to them shall understand, even if they do not accept, the message of salvation. Additional work will, of course, involve extra expense, so that help for the funds will also be needed. We hope that amongst our readers there are many who can give themselves or their substance to this divinely-blessed agency. If so, communications to that effect, as well as applications from churches desiring the services of the Evangelists, will be thankfully received by Mr. Elvin, 30, Surrey Square, Walworth, S.E.

On Sunday, June 29, special services were held by the YOUTHS’BIBLECLASS, to commemorate the twenty-fifth anniversary of Mr. S. Wigney’s connection with the class, On the following evening, at the Tabernacle prayer-meeting, Mr. Spurgeon presented some volumes of “The Treasury of David.” to Mr. Wigney, and assured him of the love felt for him by his Pastor and the officers and teachers of the school, and of their deep sympathy with him in his enforced retirement for a time, through ill-health, from the work in which he has been so greatly blessed. At the same meeting the prizes won by the scholars at the last examination of the Lambeth Auxiliary of the Sunday-school Union were presented by the Pastor, and it was especially interesting that a daughter and son of Mr. Wighey were amongst the successful candidates.

COLLEGE.

— Mr. T. B. Curry has become pastor of the church at the Tabernacle, Great Yarmouth; and Mr. B. Preston has settled at St. Peter’s, Kent. Mr. C. S. Stedhurst has been accepted by the committee of the Baptist Missionary Society for mission work in China, for which he will have a further period of special study before he sails.

Mr. 17. J. Benskin has removed from Wycliffe Chapel, Reading, to New North Road, Huddersfield; Mr. T. H. Smith, from Haddenhaza, to Chatteris, Cambs.; and Mr. G. West, from South Shields, to Heneage Street, Birmingham.

On Tuesday, July 1 , Pastor W. H. Vivian and his friends at Loughton entertained between sixty and seventy of the London ministers connected with the Pastors’ College Association. Nothing was wanting on were happily closed by a sermon in the chapel by the President.

Among the numerous addresses of congratulation received since the Jubilee meet-rags, none have been more welcome than a splendidly illuminated and beautifully bound message from the former students of the College now settled in Victoria, Australia, and a loving letter from the Baptist Union of Tasmania, which was formed principally by our brethren in that island after the opening of the Launceston Tabernacle, as described on another page.

EVANGELISTS.

— Together with a thank-offering of £20 we have received a cheering report of Messrs. Fullerton and Smith ’s services at Dundee.

The season of the year was somewhat unfavorable for large week-night gatherings, but great crowds assembled each Sabbath, and many received the word preached and sung. This month the Evangelists recommence work at Galashiels.

Mr. Burnham has had a season of unusual blessing at Carlton Green and Saxmundham. At the former place a good farmer invited our brother, and though scarcely a dozen houses could be seen from the field in which the services were held, as many as five hundred people gathered on the Sunday afternoon, and seven hundred in the evening, to listen to the Evangelist’s message. After the open-air services every evening, prayer-meetings were held in the barn, and there many who had been impressed were brought into the liberty of the gospel. At Saxmundham the services were held in the Congregational Chapel, and there also the visit of our brother was greatly helpful to both saints and sinners MR. RUSSELL reports successful services at Congleton and Eastwood Vale.

Being unable to arrange for evangelistic missions just recently, he has rendered occasional help at the Sutton Mission-hall, and also at North Cheam and West Drayton.

MESSRS.MATEER AND PARKER have visited Douglas, Isle of Man; Skipton; and Horsforth. In each place many have heard the word, and not a few have believed.

ORPHANAGE.

— We have never had a more successful annual festival than that which was held at the Orphanage on July 16. Heavy showers in the morning threatened to mar the success of the day’s proceedings; but before the afternoon the clouds cleared away, and the sun shone out right gloriously. Altogether, nearly eight thousand persons were in the grounds during the day, and the total financial proceeds, including £200 from the President from his Jubilee Testimonial, and a promise of £100 fromR. Cory, Esq., of Cardiff, amounted to at least £1,200. For this noble help we are very thankful to the hundreds of donors and collectors who helped to make up such a goodly sum, and we are devoutly thankful to the Lord who included his stewards to contribute thus generously for the support of the orphan children who are under his special protection. May the Father of the fatherless richly reward all who have had any share in supporting the happy family at Stockwell..

The program, was an unusually full one, an every item was carried out with good spirit. The President’s collection of Pictures of the Reformation was on exhibition, and was visited by several hundreds of persons. The children marched in procession on two occasions, headed by the band from Dr. Barnardo’s home. The new residence for the head-master, and the offices for the trustees, teachers, and staff, were formally declared opened by the President:, who called special attention to the beautiful stained-glass window erected in the board-room, in memory of the late Treasurer of the institution, W. Higgs, Esq., by the members of his family. In the afternoon large open-air meeting was held for the purpose of welcoming home Pastor Thomas Spurgeon. The President occupied the chair. Hearty words of welcome were spoken by Mr. B. W. Cart, and Pastors W. Stott, sadC. Spurgeon, to which our New Zealand guest happily replied, and the proceedings closed with ‘the singing of the hymn commencing “My Jesus, I love thee,” to the tune of “Home, sweet home,” Mr. Smith leading the song with his silver cornet. The Orphanage choir entertained a large number of friends with their sweet singing in the dining-hall. In the boys’ play-hall the Orphanage handbell ringers had a large and appreciative audience. Several thousands of friends gathered for the evening meeting in the grounds, at; which the Right Hon. Earl Cairns presided, and spoke most cordially of his esteem for the President, and his interest in the institution. Addresses were delivered by the Revs. Canon Fleming, B D.,B. Colmer Symes, B A., and Owen Davies, and the President and his two sons. At the close of the meeting, the Clapham Male Voice Choir gave an excellent sacred concert in the dining-hall; a number of our “old boys” made capital speeches in the play-hall; and after witnessing the very charming illumination of the grounds by Mr. Pain, the. vast crowd slowly dispersed. We must not omit to thank Mr. Murrell and his regiment of willing helpers, who were busy for hours feeding the multitude; nor Mr. and Mrs. Allison, whose bee-tent was a great center of attraction; indeed we assure all who assisted in any degree that we are deeply grateful to them, and pray that they may all be abundantly blessed in return for all their love to u:, and their help to the Lord’s work under our care.

COLPORTAGE.. — he following circular is about to be sent to the secretaries of Baptist and Congregational Associations. We shall be glad if its issue will result in the increase of this useful but hitherto little appreciated form of Christian labor: — “Allow me to ask your serious consideration of the claim: of Colportage as a valuable and tested home mission agency, specially adapted for county associations, town and country home missionary societies, and generally wherever individuals, committees, or churches can be found to support it. “The colporteur is one of the most efficient house- to-house evangelists known, and penetrates into houses and haunts not reached by any other Christian agency. The twofold appeal, through the powerful printed page, and by his pointed personal address, constitutes an agency for good of immense value. Visiting the same persons regularly every month, with a new and attractive selection of illustrated periodicals, books, and Bibles, his moral and spiritual influence is very great. Pie. becomes the welcome friend of the people, and his visits are eagerly looked for both by young and old, while the literature sold displaces or neutralizes that of an injurious nature, besides much spiritual good being accomplished. “The work, too, is so elastic that its details can be adapted to the special requirements of any locality. The sale of books, etc., occupies a fundamental place with the colporteur, but while thus engaged innumerable opportunities arise for pressing home the gospel message, while special classes of persons can easily be visited, e g., fishermen, navvies, colliers, and workmen of various kinds. As a helper in lay preaching, Sundayschools, etc., the colporteur co-operates successfully with other forms of church work, and is the rival of none. “Finally, on the score of economy, Colportage is by far the cheapest agency extant, as the entire services of a Christian man can be secured by a payment to the Association of £40 a-year. When this comparatively small subscription is paid by friends in the district, the Association assists them liberally by supplying any deficiency in the expense of maintaining the colporteur; for while the profit on the sales lessens the cost, a considerable balance usually remains to be provided from the General Fund beyond the £40 received in subscriptions from the district. “A number of county associations, and of local committees, employ one or more colporteurs, some having increased the number sevenfold. It is trusting that you will kindly consider this matter, and lay it before your friends, that I venture to launch this circular, hoping that it will not find its way into the waste-paper basket until it has accomplished its purpose in leading to the employment of more colporteurs. I shall be glad to give any further information upon application. “Believe me, “Yours faithfully, “CORDEN JONES, “General Secretary.”

Baptisms at Metropolitan Tabernacle,-June 26, sixteen; June 30, thirteen; July 3, twelve.

Applications for the admission of destitute Fatherless Children, between the ages of six and ten, should be addressed in writing to the Secretary, and full particulars given. As the number of candidates is largely in excess of the accommodation, the Trustees may decline to issue a form; for it would be useless to cause trouble when there is no prospect of success. If a form be granted, it must not be regarded as a guarantee that the application will succeed.

The questions must be fully and frankly answered by the applicant, and the form returned as soon as possible. The slightest untruthfulness will necessitate the immediate rejection of the case. Unhealthy, deformed, and imbecile children are not eligible. Only children born in wedlock can be received. Under no possible circumstances can exceptions be made to this rule, as the trust is definite and unalterable.

If the case is entered on the list of approved candidates, the Trustees appoint. a, visitor to make personal inquiries. Should these be satisfactory, the child will appear before the Committee in due course, and if it is then among the most needy and deserving, it may be recommended for admission to the Institution, as soon as there is room.

Friends who are only acquainted with the case in which they are specially interested must not be surprised at its rejection by the Trustees at any stage if it is proved by them to be less necessitous than others; nor must they wonder if the child is declined because of unsuitability, for the Institution is not a Hospital, nor a Reformatory, nor an Idiot Asylum. The election of children not being determined by subscribers’ votes, the Trustees maintain the strictest impartiality while considering the claims of the various applicants, and the greatest need always has the loudest ‘voice with them.

Applicants are requested not to call upon the Trustees privately, as they are bound not to attend to them otherwise than officially. Cases will be considered on their own merits, and they will derive no advantage from personal solicitation. Mr. Spurgeon cannot personally see any applicants, and should not be written to. All letters on this business mast be addressed to the Secretary.

The Institution is mainly supported by spontaneous gifts, a number of donors sending as regularly, year by year, as if they were pledged to do so.

An increase to the number of subscribers would greatly cheer the President’s heart. Now that girls as well as boys have to be fed, clothed, and educated, the income needs to be doubled. Will not the reader of this Report become a helper? Subscriptions, large or small, will be gratefully received by C. H.SPURGEON, Westwood, Beulah Hill, Upper Norwood, S.E. Collecting Boxes or Books may be obtained of the Secretary, Stockwell Orphanage. Gifts of Food, Stores, Clothes, Books, Toys:, and useful articles are always welcome, and should be directed to VERNON J.CHARLESWORTH, Head Master, The Orphanage, Stockwell, London, SW. REPORT, 1883-4.

WHEN a year has been crowned with mercy it should be closed with praise, and we invite all who have had fellowship with us in the work of the Orphanage to join in blessing our Covenant God. Without the Lord nothing prospers, but with him nothing fails. The Stockwell Orphanage has always been covered with the wings of the Eternal, and so its little ones have nestled down in safety. Neither anxiety nor toil have been permitted to press so heavily as to become a burden, for our anxiety has yielded to a peaceful trust that; “the Lord will provide,” and toil has been rendered light by the assurance, “My grace is sufficient for thee.” Our language is, “Oh, magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together.” It is good work, for a good Master, who has set before us a good object, promises us good wages, and provides us with good supplies. We ought to be merry in the midst of such mercy.

The Trustees have all been spared and enabled to perform their arduous duties through another year; friends have been raised up for the Institution; funds have been forthcoming, and every way we are called upon to praise the Lord upon the high-sounding cymbals. Our tongue shall not be silent nor our heart forgetful; the whole Institution shall be perfumed with the praises of Jehovah, the Father of the fatherless, and the Judge of the widow.

To those who like to trace the progress of the Institution, the following table will be of considerable interest, from which it will be seen that we have received NINE HUNDRED AND TWENTY-FOUR FATHERLESS CHILDREN!

This is a large family, but not too large for the bounty of the Father’s House. “He openeth his hand, and satisfieth the desire of every living thing.” See how easily the work is done. He does but open his hand and! every need is satisfied. Another year’s experience has proved that “He who feeds the ravens Will give his children bread. ’ With gratitude be it said the orphans have never lacked a meal, and the managers have been spared the calamity of debt, and even the trial of overdrawing their banker’s account. If at any time our faith has been put to the test, it. has only led us to more fervent prayer, and the supplies have come when they have been most needed.

NUMBER OF INMATES.

Total Number received — 924.

Left — 521.

In residence — 403.

Note — Of the 49 children whose removal we record,35 were placed in situations, 9 were remitted to their friends,4 were dismissed on the remarriage of their mothers, and one died in the Hospital.

Mr. John Maynard, one of the old boys, on returning from Africa, where he had charge of a church, entered the Pastors’ College as a student for the ministry.

As many of our supporters are removed year by year, and new friends must be added to the list, we deem it advisable to recapitulate the guiding principles of the Institution. 1. It is based on THE COTTAGE HOME SYSTEM which, in our judgment, has superior advantages over every other. The loss of home and parental influence is a calamity to a child, and the wisest and best methods are necessary to compensate the loss as far as possible. Covering an area of nearly four acres in one of the healthiest suburbs of London, the Orphanage is admirably adapted for its purpose. Each home is complete in itself, and each family has its own “mother.” The boys dine in one common hall according to families; the girls’ meals are all prepared in their respective houses, and it is a rule that both boys and girls assist in all the domestic duties of the establishment Family worship is conducted in each department morning and evening, and the children learn the text for the day from Mr. Spurgeon’s “Almanac. ” The terrace on the left-hand side of the quadrangle, with the schools over the center block, are designed for boys, and the terrace on the right for an equal number of girls. The building in the center is the infirmary, with separate wings for boys trod girls. The adjacent building is for the swimming bath and girls’ play hall.. For the boys a commodious play hall is provided at the end of the terrace.

Under the Cottage Home System the most careful supervision of each child is possible, and the best sanitary conditions are secured. Apart from the ordinary ailments incidental to childhood, and one or two solitary cases of a serious nature, there has been no illness to cause alarm or anxiety. By the good providence of God the children have been spared the ravages of an epidemic, and though many of them came of a consumptive stock, a short residence in the Institution has been found to improve their condition to a remarkable degree. We append the medical report, and a list shewing the cause of death in the case of fathers whose children were received during the year.

MEDICAL REPORT 1883-4 MR. PRESIDENT AND GENTLEMEN, I have now the pleasure to hand you my annual report, ending 31st March, 1880.

We have again been blessed with a comparatively clean bill of health, and our average sickness has been very small. We are fortunate in having all excellent staff of officers, and to this I attribute the early attention that all sick eases have received, and the general harmony that tends so much to the efficient working — medically and otherwise — of a large institution.

At the commencement of the year we had several eases of febriculae, of the class now generally recognized as German measles. Some had grave symptoms; but, in the end, all terminated without trouble or complication. I find it a good plan to isolate for fourteen days, during the prevalence of eruptive diseases, all eases in which there is sore throat with febrile symptoms. Scarlet fever frequently follows.

Outside the walls of the Orphanage, cases of measles have been very numerous, but, I am thankful to report, our children have hitherto escaped.

Two well-marked eases of hooping-cough occurred: these were at once isolated, and the spread of the disease was arrested.

Cases of ringworm — from the frequent importation of fresh children — have been numerous, and there is no disease attended by so many troublesome complications, especially when it affects the head.

One case of enteric fever occurred, which, we regret to add, terminated gradually.

One my contracted scarlet fever, and on his return to his friends developed within three clays a mild attack of small-pox.

Both these children were sent without delay to the Stockwell Hospital.

Several children have suffered from strumous diseases affecting the glands and eyes.

It is a matter of considerable importance as to how the bread is made. Pure water and cleanliness are essential to the production of a wholesome loaf.

Under the management of the Committee, nutritious bread might be made on the premises of flour containing the bone-forming and nitrogenous portions of the wheat. A loaf made of seconds flour, good quality, and per cent. of granulated wheat (through steel mills) will be ,sweet and pleasant to the palate after being kept three or four days.

Possibly the day will come when the Orphanage will have its convalescent home at the sea-side, to which we can send children without delay who require the change.

I subjoin a Table assigning the cause of death in the eases of the fathers of those children who were admitted during the year.

Thanking you for your confidence, I beg to remain, Mr. President and Gentlemen, Your obedient servant, WILLIAM SOPER, M.R.C.S.E., L.S.A.

Our best thanks are due to our Medical Officer, Dr. Soper, and also to those honorable gentlemen who have for so many years voluntarily discharged, without fee or reward, the offices of Hon. Consulting Physician, Hon. Consulting Surgeon, Hon. Consulting Ophthalmic Surgeon and Hon. Dentist. The last gentleman has a curious record of an immense number of teeth stopped or extracted, which shows that his office is no sinecure. As the work is all for love, and nothing for reward, we trust that these gentlemen will receive a special blessing from the great Father of the fatherless.

In order to the more efficient management of the Girls’ Department, the Trustees have thought it wise to call in the assistance of a Ladies ’ Committee, by whose kindly observation and advice they hope to be better able to arrange for the comfort of that side of the establishment. A number of ladies, mostly the wives of the Trustees, very cheerfully accepted the duty, and we look for happy results therefrom. 2. The institution is open to fatherless children from ALL PARTS OF UNITED KINGDOM.

Being situated in London, where the greatest need Js concentrated, by far the larger number of children admitted have come from the Metropolitan area, and it will be seen that the poorest districts have benefited to the largest extent. This is as it should be, for we aim to assist the most helpless and deserving.

Our subscribers will be glad to note that as the knowledge of the institution extends, so its advantages are sought by applicants from all parts of the kingdom. 3. The Institution is UNSECTARIAN — the question of the denominational connection of the parents having no influence with the Committee in considering an application. Orphanhood and need are the conditions required, and no child is prejudiced as a candidate on account of the creed of his father. In a matter of pure philanthropy sectarian preferences should have no weight, although the character of the parents and their usefulness in the Church of God constitute in some cases a plea. for a more speedy reception of their little ones.

The supreme desire of the Committee of Management is that the children shall be instructed in the truths of our common Christianity, renewed in spirit by the Holy Ghost, and trained in the nurture and admonition of the Lord. We are more concerned that the children should become disciples of Christ than devotees of a sect, and for this we will both pray and labor. It would be a calamity to be deplored were theological differences allowed to mar so beneficent a work as that of assisting the widow and the fatherless, and in this we rejoice to know that we have the hearty confidence and generous co-operation of friends in communion with every section of the Christian Church. 4. The Institution is open to ALL CLASSES OF THE COMMUNITY. No one section of society has the preference. In considering the claims of an orphan, the station in life occupied by the parents has small influence in the counsels of the Committee. It will be seen in the table subjoined that, while almost, every grade of society has been represented, by far the greater proportion of children belonged to the industrial and most necessitous classes. When a family has been dependent upon the weekly wage of the father, which in so many instances leaves but a slender margin for saving, with his death the whole of their support is gone at a stroke! If a lingering illness has preceded his death, their little hoard has been exhausted; if not, what remains will scarcely suffice to meet the funeral expenses. But for the ministry of an orphanage, a widow, left with several helpless little ones whose cry for bread pierces her heart: must have a feeling akin to despair.

The relief afforded by our taking over the burden of no less than fatherless children to the resent date task which still remained. Often have our hearts been filled to overflowing with mingled emotions of sympathetic sorrow and sincere joy; sorrow for the trouble which still remained, and joy that we had been able to lighten the load, at least by an ounce or two.

Frequently have we had to see the hand of the Lord helping choice saints by means of our Institution. Arc there not thousands who will share our burden and our blessing? Will not our reader continue to do so? Our subscribers will rejoice with us that the Institution has taken over the burden of no less than 924 fatherless children to the present date. 5. To secure the admission of a destitute fatherless child between the age of six and ten,NO PATRONAGE IS REQUIRED, provided there is room in the Institution. The most helpless and deserving are elected by a Committee, to whom the greatest need must always have the loudest voice; they are not elected by the votes of subscribers. In this way help is rendered to those who are least able to help themselves, or to secure the assistance of others.

Applicants are put to no expense, beyond providing the necessary certificates to prove that the candidates are eligible under the rules of the Institution. It is better that the admission of a child should be in response to the bitter cry of helpless orphanhood than as a reward for the diligence or expense incurred in dunning the subscribers for their votes. The amount expended, directly and indirectly, in qualifying for admission to some institutions, is in many cases almost equal to the value of the benefit secured. As it is impossible for us to receive all who apply, there is this satisfaction: the candidates are only declined for want of room, and not because, after expending their all, they have failed to procure the necessary vote,; to command success. The Committee appointed to consider the claims of the applicants devote considerable time and anxious thought to this department, and no case is rejected by them, unless it is proved to be less necessitous than others under consideration. Will our friends kindly bear this fact in mind, should an application in which they are specially interested not prove successful? In their judgment, and probably as a matter of fact, the children in whom they are interested are real!’ destitute, and the mothers are highly deserving; but when we have only one vacancy for three or four or even more candidates, some; must be excluded; and it may so happen that there is a still more destitute child and a still more needy widow than the one which our friends would select, and that case will have the preference. We are therefore compelled to set aside scores, or even hundreds, whom we should have been right glad to admit, because they have not attained. to that pre-eminence in misery which wins our suffrages. Till someone will. invent expanding houses, and show us how to make a pound grow into forty’ shillings when there is need for it, we fear it will always be our sorrow to have to turn many deserving applicants from our door.

We would here express our sincere thanks to our brethren of the Committee, whose valuable co-operation we greatly prize. 6. The children are NOT DRESSED IN AUNIFORM to mark them as the recipients of charity. To our way of thinking, there is something very depressing, if not degrading, to dress a number of children exactly alike, and we thus endeavor, as far as possible, to avoid the monotony which waits’, uniformity; at the same time, we seek to realize the harmony which grows out of variety. And we are more than satisfied with the result, even from an economical point of view. Our subscribers will be glad to know that this feature has received the special commendation of the Inspectors of the Local Government Board, who were concerned in an inquiry into the advantages of the Cottage Home System, with a view to its application to the Pauper Schools of the country. In the suit of “broad cloth versus fustian or corduroy,” an impartial jury would have no difficulty in declaring a verdict.

In the arrangements of the Schools, our object is to impart a plain but sound ENGLISH EDUCATION, in order to fit the boys fox’ commercial pursuits, and as we have never experienced any difficulty in finding employers willing to take them when their time has expired, our methods must be considered to be successful.

The children who are instructed in the Tonic Sol-fa system of singing took part in the Concerts of the Temperance Fete, and the Tonic Sol-fa Festivals at the Crystal Palace.

For the girls we provide a plain education, and we hope to fit them for house, duties, so that they may be prepared for their future lives. Their special vocation must in a large measure be left to their mothers, but; our view is to fit them for domestic service in good families.

A service is conducted for the elder children every Wednesday evening, by Mr. W. J. Evans, when addresses are given by ministers and other friends.

On the Lord’s-day morning the elder children attend public service, arm a suitable service is conducted for the rest at the Orphanage by Messrs.

Bartlett and Daniels. A Sunday-school is held in the afternoon, superintended by Mr. W’. J. Evans, when a staff of volunteer teachers instruct the children in the Scriptures. The Evening Service is conducted by friends who have shown great willingness to engage in this special work.

The influence of earnest helpers from without is of the most salutary kind, and their co-operation is greatly appreciated by those who have charge of the children throughout the week. Children who give evidence of a change of heart are formed into a “Young Christians’ Band.” 7. For the support of the Orphanage more than nine-tenths of the amount required must come in the form of VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTIONS.

Without locking up its surplus funds or legacies as an endowment which cannot be alienated, the Trustees have sought to secure an income by judicious investments in such securities as can be realized, should the necessity arise.

When generous contributors have bequeathed a sum of money to the Orphanage, it is clear it was not their intention for the money to be expended within the year it became due. The wise economy of means comports with the principle of faith, and does not argue mis-trust in the providence of God. In managing the Lord’s money there should be as much prudence as if there were no faith. Our list of annual subscribers is a very slender one, but then we have many friends who send as regularly as though they were pledged to do so. To them the cause of the orphan is felt to be a very sacred obligation, and to send of their substance from time to time yields a pleasure all its own.

During the year our friends who take collecting boxes and books brought in the sum of £637 18s. 8d. Meetings are arranged for the collector, from time to time, when the President is pleased to see them, and personally to thank them for their efforts in a cause which is so dear to his own heart.

The children in the Orphanage were supplied with cards, and their friends collected £179 14s. 0d. This was regarded as a very precious offering, for it was for the most part collected in pennies, and was felt to be an expression of gratitude on the part of those who have enjoyed the benefits of the Institution.

Many friends residing at a distance, who are not able to attend the meetings, correspond with the President personally, and send in substantial assistance. There are always vacancies in this royal regiment, and early applications will be heartily welcomed.

Altogether the amount received during the year from books and boxes reached the noble sum of £979 14s. 4d., for which we are truly grateful.

Our friend and neighbor, Mr. Newman Hall, devotes the Christmas morning collection at Christ Church to the Orphanage, and this year our friend and brother, Dr. Parker, gave us a collection at the City Temple. A choir of the orphan children sang at each service, to the great delight of the friends present. We shall be glad to find this example copied, and beg to commend it as worthy of imitation, as the gain to the Institution goes beyond the amount of the collection.

Several young ladies’ working associations have rendered considerable help by their loving labors, and their services are greatly appreciated.

Service in so good a cause has its present joy, and will not miss the fall reward by-and-by. May the Lord accept the freewill offerings of these dear friends, and bless every worker!

Many friends who cannot combine with others in such a work can render us good service by making any articles of clothing suitable for either boys or girls, between the ages of 6 and 15.

During the year, Mr. Charlesworth has gone to many places with his Choir and Hand Bell Ringers. The addition of £517 0s. 3d., after deducting all expenses, to the funds of the Institution from this source moves us to thank all our friends who have helped to bring about such a result.. As stewards of the Lord’s bounty, it was right that our friends should be informed of the nature and scope of the work in the best possible way and as facts are more potent than words, the sight of a choir of neatly-dressed boys is more convincing than a long argument.

List of’ places visited and from which help has been received :-LONDON.

Metropolitan Tabernacle (Temperance Society); Mr. Ross’s Mission, Old Kent Road; Windsworth, East Hill; Ditto, Chatham Road; Holloway, Baptist Chapel; Walworth Rod Baptist Chapel; Greenwich, South Street Chapel; Lambeth, York Road Chapel; Hackney; Hampden Chapel.

COUNTRY.

Ashford, Kent; Allold:. Surrey; Aylesbury; Bacup; Boston; Cowes, East and West; Folkestone; Gosport; Gainsborough; Grimshy; Grantham; High Wycombe; Holbeach; Lumb; Lincoln; Louth; Melton Mowbray; Nelson; Oxford; Portsmouth; Peterborough; Ryde; Retford; Southampton; Tring; Wisbeach.

The meetings, as conducted, do not merely afford an evening’s diversion; they aim at benefiting those present; and many testimonies have been received to prove that this object has been attained. Mr. Charlesworth will be glad to correspond with any who can arrange for meetings in and of the Orphanage.

From the Orphanage Acre at Waterbeach, under the skillful farming of!

Mr. Tolter, we continue to receive a welcome supply of flour and potatoes.

Other friends have sent us a portion of their potato crops, and several millers have occasionally forwarded sacks of flour. Puddings and potatoes form important articles of diet, and we shall be glad if farmers will remember our orphans in “seed-time and harvest.” Such an offering of first-fruits will sanctify the whole crop. A good friend at Reading has dedicated a pear-tree to the Orphanage, and sends either the fruit or the money realized by its sale.

It would be impossible to enumerate all the presents sent by generous friends, but they are acknowledged every month in The Sword and the Trowel. We repeat our thanks to one and all. We are sorry when friends do not receive a prompt acknowledgment of their gifts; but in almost all instances where this has occurred, the donor has failed to send name and address with the parcel. Please therefore do us the following kindness : — Write in your plainest hand and put your name in the parcel, and then send a post-card or note to say that such a parcel is on the road and contains such and such articles.

The Festival took place in June, as usual, in celebration of the President’s birthday. One feature of interest was the Stone-laying of the New Houses for the, Officers by Mr. Samuel Morley and Mr. James Duncan. The quadrangle is now nearly complete, but we require to build a laundry, a bakehouse, and a hall for Sunday-school Services and Meetings of Collectors. At present we are obliged to use the Boys’ Dining Hall for such purposes, and it is attended with great inconvenience and labor.

Following his own example of the previous year, Mr. W. Ross gave the children a strawberry tea in the Orphanage grounds. Several friends contributed to the success of the feast, and to one and all we tender our sincere thanks.

Before the children were dismissed for their Summer Holiday, they were taken to Brighton, and by the kindness of Mr. Murrell and the friends at the West Brighton Congregational Chapel, where tea was served, the day was one of great delight.