TEMPERANCE NOTES AND NEWS.

help"Help, help, help!" yelled the grizzly.

"Help, help, help!" yelled the grizzly.

Then the wizard awoke, and leapt out of his hole, and came flying to the rescue, raking the water and the air with his long snaky arms, and screeching horribly. But before he got to where the grizzly was rolling over and over in a whirlpool of mad otters and fishes and foam, he heard the voice of his daughter, the red wolf, who had just arrived and was calling out (as well as she could with a little Indian's clothes in her mouth) to ask what was the matter.

"If I've lost one, I'll make sure of the other," the wizard thought; and he seized theboy from his daughter's mouth and plunged down into the pit, leaving his grizzly son to look after himself.

"We must save the boy!" cried the head otter.

"He's not worth saving," said the fishes; "haven't we done enough for one night?"

The otters did not condescend to answer, but swam hotly after the wizard, and the fishes followed without another word, leaving the grizzly to hobble ashore and lick his wounds.

None of the otters had ever dared to descend the wizard's pit before, and none of the fishes had ever ventured within a hundred feet of its mouth; but now the otters' blood was up, and they dived like a flash, and caught up the wizard before he got to the bottom, and fastened on his heels, and dug their teeth into his calves. The wizard flung himself round and gripped an otter in each hand; but they gnawed his wrists till their teeth met in the sinews, and the rest of the otters swarmed round his neck and cut his head right off.

"The boy is drowned, all the same," said the head fish, who swam bravely down into the pit when he heard the otters' scream of victory.

"Not a bit of it," said the head otter; "it's only his badness that's drowned; the boy will be righter than ever if you hurry ashore with him."

So the fishes pushed him up to the air and rolled him ashore; though it was rather difficult, as he had not the sense to hold on, and they had no arms to hold him by.

Meanwhile the otters had gone down to the very bottom of the pit, and bitten through the teacher's cords; and she kissed their wet foreheads and left her dark prison, and the rising sun flung her a rosy welcome as she stepped out on to dry ground. The squinting wolf shut her eyes and howled, and fled into the wood with her tail between her legs.

The eight little Indians were having a fine romp with the little otters when the big otters came back, tired and wounded, but proud with glorious news. As soon as the story was told, the head otter said—"Now, children, it's time to go home, and the fishes are waiting. No going through the woods this time!"

As he spoke, the fishes humped up their great grey backs, and the children took their seats, and the procession never stopped till it came to the little school-house, where the best of all teachers stood smiling welcomes at the door and two shamefaced little Indians pretended to be very busy at their sums inside.

processionThe procession never stopped till it came to the school-house.

The procession never stopped till it came to the school-house.

Then there was a great hugging and kissing and laughing and crying for joy, while the little otters turned flying somersaults over the desks and played catch on the grass outside, and the fishes looked on through their water-window, till the children were tired of play and begged for lessons to begin.

By a Leading Temperance Advocate.

I"Could we but do away with intemperance, the conditions of living would become so changed that we should hardly know ourselves," said John Bright on a memorable occasion. What would the country be like without public-houses? We can form some idea of the altered state of affairs by taking a trip to the model town of Bessbrook in the county of Armagh. Here we shall find a thriving, populous community without any public-house or place for the sale of intoxicating liquor. It owes its origin to the philanthropic prescience of the late John Grubb Richardson, a wealthy member of the Society of Friends. In the early 'sixties he purchased an estate of some sixty thousand acres, and there erected the factory which is now world-famed as the Bessbrook Flax Spinning Mills. Approaching the town from Newry, the spinning mills form the most prominent feature in the view. The immense range of lofty buildings is of noble proportions, and for massive elegance compares very favourably with similar erections in the Lancashire and Yorkshire factory districts. When the mills are in full work, occupation is afforded for about five thousand hands. The chief feature of the model town is a handsome square. There are several shops in addition to the co-operative stores, and the houses are well built, varying in size, every family being accommodated with three to six rooms, according to the number of its members. There is an institute with a capitallibrary, a recreation room, a dispensary, excellent schools under the supervision of the National Board of Education, a savings bank, and half-a-dozen places of worship, the respective congregations supporting the current expenses. The sale of intoxicating liquors is entirely prohibited, and, as a consequence, there is not only an absence of drunkenness, but a general freedom from the legion of evils which seem inseparable from the liquor traffic. There is no resident police officer, and it is only quite recently that there has been any police perambulation of the model town, this latter being due more to political disturbances in the near neighbourhood than to any outbreak of crime on the part of the inhabitants of Bessbrook itself. The North of Ireland thus furnishes an excellent example of how to make the working classes thrifty, sober, industrious, happy and prosperous.

"Could we but do away with intemperance, the conditions of living would become so changed that we should hardly know ourselves," said John Bright on a memorable occasion. What would the country be like without public-houses? We can form some idea of the altered state of affairs by taking a trip to the model town of Bessbrook in the county of Armagh. Here we shall find a thriving, populous community without any public-house or place for the sale of intoxicating liquor. It owes its origin to the philanthropic prescience of the late John Grubb Richardson, a wealthy member of the Society of Friends. In the early 'sixties he purchased an estate of some sixty thousand acres, and there erected the factory which is now world-famed as the Bessbrook Flax Spinning Mills. Approaching the town from Newry, the spinning mills form the most prominent feature in the view. The immense range of lofty buildings is of noble proportions, and for massive elegance compares very favourably with similar erections in the Lancashire and Yorkshire factory districts. When the mills are in full work, occupation is afforded for about five thousand hands. The chief feature of the model town is a handsome square. There are several shops in addition to the co-operative stores, and the houses are well built, varying in size, every family being accommodated with three to six rooms, according to the number of its members. There is an institute with a capitallibrary, a recreation room, a dispensary, excellent schools under the supervision of the National Board of Education, a savings bank, and half-a-dozen places of worship, the respective congregations supporting the current expenses. The sale of intoxicating liquors is entirely prohibited, and, as a consequence, there is not only an absence of drunkenness, but a general freedom from the legion of evils which seem inseparable from the liquor traffic. There is no resident police officer, and it is only quite recently that there has been any police perambulation of the model town, this latter being due more to political disturbances in the near neighbourhood than to any outbreak of crime on the part of the inhabitants of Bessbrook itself. The North of Ireland thus furnishes an excellent example of how to make the working classes thrifty, sober, industrious, happy and prosperous.

townhallTHE TOWN HALL, BESSBROOK.

THE TOWN HALL, BESSBROOK.

Bessbrook(Photo: Cuwell and Co., Ltd.)A VIEW OF BESSBROOK.

(Photo: Cuwell and Co., Ltd.)A VIEW OF BESSBROOK.

(Photo: Cuwell and Co., Ltd.)

A VIEW OF BESSBROOK.

The Rev. W. E. Bolland, M.A., vicar of Embleton, Northumberland, has, in conjunction with some friends, launched a scheme for a model club and hall for the village. The plan contains some novel features, inasmuch as it embraces a working men's club, a public hall available for meetings, entertainments, etc.; a café and refreshment rooms, specially catering for cyclists and visitors; bedrooms for summer visitors, and also a public laundry. The catering will exclude the provision of intoxicants, and it will be seen from the illustration that the architect has planned a very attractive looking house. This village scheme will be closely watched, and, if it should succeed, there can be no doubt that the enterprising vicar of Embleton will have many followers.

proposedTHE PROPOSED TEMPERANCE CLUB FOR EMBLETON.

THE PROPOSED TEMPERANCE CLUB FOR EMBLETON.

In a very short time London will be deprived of one of its most picturesque sights—namely, the tramp of its seven hundred or more Bluecoat boys to the Mansion House on Easter Tuesday to pay their respects to the Lord Mayor and Lady Mayoress, and receive a monetary gift, and a bun and a glass of wine. The Grecians are given a sovereign and a shilling each; the junior Grecians a half-sovereign and a sixpence; the monitors half-a-crown; and the other boys a shilling each. The removal of this famous school to the country will possibly put an end to the function. The glass of wine has become a diminishing quantity in recent years; for, thanks to the activity of a friend at court, lemonade was introduced as an alternative a few years back, and now the teetotal boys have no hesitation in availing themselves of this beverage. The preacher of the Spital sermon this year is to be a life-long abstainer, the Bishop of Carlisle.

The programmes for the May meetings are now nearing completion. The Church of England Temperance Society announces as speakers the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Bishop of Chichester, the Bishop of Thetford, and the Rev. Dr. Ridgeway; the National Temperance League relies upon the Archbishop of Canterbury, Mr. T. W. Russell, M.P., Mr.John Colville, M.P., the Rev. George Hanson, B.D., and Miss Agnes Weston; while Sir George Williams will preside for the United Kingdom Band of Hope Union. The annual meetings of the Scottish Temperance League will be held in Glasgow on April 17th; the annual meeting of the Sussex Band of Hope Union will take place at Lewes on April 26th; a social meeting of the Young Men's Auxiliary of the National Temperance League will be held in Sion College on April 21st; the Hackney and East Middlesex Band of Hope Union will give a reception in honour of its new President, the Dowager Countess of Errol, on April 20th. The usual open-air demonstrations in the London parks, promoted by the United Temperance Council will take place on Saturday, June 17th. The Rev. F. B. Meyer will preach the annual sermon of the Congregational Total Abstinence Society. The Archbishop of Canterbury and Mrs. Temple will give a Garden Party at Lambeth Palace on July 1st to meet the official advocates of the temperance movement. The Norwich Diocesan temperance anniversary will be held at Norwich from October 17th to October 24th inclusive.

Llandaff(Photo: Russell and Sons, Baker Street, W.)THE BISHOP OF LLANDAFF.

(Photo: Russell and Sons, Baker Street, W.)THE BISHOP OF LLANDAFF.

(Photo: Russell and Sons, Baker Street, W.)

THE BISHOP OF LLANDAFF.

A few weeks ago the Lord Bishop of Llandaff agreeably surprised the temperance workers of Cardiff by announcing that he had definitely decided to try total abstinence. It may not be generally known that the Right Rev. H. J. Foss, who has recently been consecrated Bishop of Osaka, is an abstainer, and has been an active temperance worker during the whole of his twenty years' residence in Japan. The Bishop of Islington and the Bishop of Southampton are also total abstainers.

Temperance(Photo: Cassell and Co., ltd.)THE BRADFORD TEMPERANCE HALL.

(Photo: Cassell and Co., ltd.)THE BRADFORD TEMPERANCE HALL.

(Photo: Cassell and Co., ltd.)

THE BRADFORD TEMPERANCE HALL.

The city of Bradford claims to possess the first Temperance Hall in the world. The foundation stone was laid on Monday, March 13th, 1837, and the building was opened on February 27th, 1838, by the Bishop of Ripon, Dr. Longley (who in succession became Bishop of Durham, Archbishop of York, and Archbishop of Canterbury). This famous building is still in regular use, the Bradford Temperance Society being one of the most vigorous associations in the country. A unique feature of the hall is a very handsome painted window in memory of the late John Priestman. It is a four-light window, and contains four female figures robed in mediæval costumes, and representing "Religion," "Temperance," "Health," and "Prosperity." Above the central light is an effective portrait of Mr. Priestman. Mr. George Field in his interesting "Historical Survey of the Bradford Temperance Society," says:—

"The hall of this, the first temperance society in England, has been a battle-field for many conflicts with drink, and some of the greatest orators have made its walls re-echo with their oratory. It has had amongst its friends and workers some of the best men and women of Bradford. By its agency many a degraded sot has been rescued and restored to respectability in society, but while the curse of drink remains the work will have to go on."

scripture

APRIL 16th.—Jesus Teaching Humility.

To read—St. John xiii. 1-17.Golden Text—Ver. 15.

ISo far have had Christ'sactivelife coupled with His teachings. Come now to Hispassivelife just before the close. To-day's lesson—a sort of active parable—teaching His giving up Himself for man.

So far have had Christ'sactivelife coupled with His teachings. Come now to Hispassivelife just before the close. To-day's lesson—a sort of active parable—teaching His giving up Himself for man.

I. The Washing(1-11).The time.Just before Christ's last Passover. Supper being "at hand" (Revised Version); washing taking place before a meal (St. Mark vii. 3). Always known as the "Last Supper" or Passover Feast. His "hour" for showing Himself fully as the Saviour was now come.

The cause(ver. 1). Love passing all knowledge (Eph. iii. 19). Shown by itsgreatness—loved to the uttermost; itscomprehensiveness—including even Judas; itslowliness—doing a servant's work.

The act.Disciples began to dispute which should be the greatest (St. Luke xxii. 24). Christ shows by His action what His opinion is. The greatest in His kingdom are they who serve most. Takes towel, water, basin; washes feet of each in turn. Who declines to accept the act of service? But unless Peter submits to Christ, can have no part with Him. He dreads separation from Him, therefore is eager now to be wholly washed. Christ tells him two things—

(a) He cannot understand meaning of this act but will hereafter—will add to his faith, virtue (or valour), and knowledge (2 Pet. i. 3).

(b) He who is washed,i.e.bathed (Greek), in Christ's atoning blood (Zech. xiii. 1) needs only to "wash" or be washed from daily sin to be kept clean and holy.

II. The Meaning(12-17).Equalityin Christ's service. He is their Master, but delights to serve them. Followers must copy His example.

Service.The spirit of His example to be followed—feeding hungry, teaching ignorant, visiting the sick and sad (St. Matt. xxv. 35, 36).

Knowledge.Life's mysteries to be cleared up hereafter. Duties now, rewards future.

Lesson.Lord, what wilt Thou have me to do?

Kindness to the Poor.

The great general, Sir William Napier, once met a little girl in a country lane sobbing over a broken bowl. She had dropped it after taking her father's dinner, and expected to be beaten for her carelessness. Suddenly a gleam of hope seemed to cheer her. "You can mend it, sir," she said, "can't you?" Sir William explained that he could not mend it, but could give her sixpence to buy another. It chanced, however, that he had no money with him, so he promised to meet her at the same time and place the next day with a sixpence. On his return home, he found an invitation to dinner the next day to meet someone whom he specially wished to see. What was he to do? He could not do both; but the child had trusted him. He must do his duty to the poor before thinking of his own pleasure. So he declined the invitation and helped, as he had promised, Christ's little one.

April 23rd.—Jesus the Way, Truth, and Life.

To read—St. John xiv. 1-14.Golden Text—Ver. 6.

Discourse with disciples at Last Supper continued. Peter, boasting of his steadfastness, been warned of his coming fall, that very night (xiii. 38), but comforted by thought of heaven to all who come to God by Him for pardon.

I. The Many Mansions.What they are? Abiding places (Greek). This world passes away—heaven endures. They are many in number—room for all. Also prepared by Christ for all who believe in Him. Christ by His death opened heaven to man, and waits there to receive His people.

II. The Way to Heaven(4-7).Christ the Way.Came to reveal this. None else could make atonement. God's holy Son alone could, by dying for sin, open way to heaven for sinners. He alone lifted up, gives eternal life (iii. 14, 15).

Christ the Truth.Yet charged that night with blasphemy, worst of all falsehoods, making Himself God (xix. 7). Yet was the perfect truth. Exposed hypocrisy of chief priests, hollowness of Scribes and Pharisees (St. Luke xi. 39, 44). Taught the spirit of the commandments in Sermon on Mount (St. Matt. v. 21, 22, 28, 39, etc.). Acted truth in His own perfect life. Taught God's truth to men.

Christ the Life, though put to death day following. Author of life; the world made by Him. Gave natural life once more to three dead persons. Gave spiritual life to Nicodemus, who became disciple; Samaritan who accepted His teaching (iv. 42). Raised Himself from the dead, and gives eternal life to as many as believe.

Lesson.He that believeth in Me shall not die.

III. The Father Revealed(8-14). Cannot be seen by mortal eye (i. 18), but is seen in person of His Son. Christ reveals the person of the Father full of love and pity to those in need; full of anger against hypocrites, liars, etc. (viii. 44). Christ also reveals works of God, miracles of mercy. Same, and even greater, power of working miracles promised to His disciples after His departure. Also answers to prayer made to the Father in His name.

So the revelation of the Father shows Him as aloving Person, a Giver of power, a Hearer of prayer. What more can Philip need?

Lesson.

"Thou art coming to a King,Large petitions with thee bring."

"Is that All?"

A wounded soldier in a hospital was visited by a clergyman, who saw that his life was fast ebbing out. "Young man," said he, "you are soon to die; are you saved from sin?" "No, sir," was the reply; "what must I do?" "'Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and thou shalt be saved.'" "Say that again," said the soldier. It was repeated. Steadily looking at the minister, the soldier said, "Is that all?" "Yes, that is all. No man goeth to the Father but by Him." Closing his eyes for a few moments, the young soldier opened them again and, raising his right hand, exclaimed, "Lord Jesus, I surrender." Instantly his face shone with brightness, and in a few days the new-born soul went home to God.

April 30th.—The Comforter Promised.

To read—St. John xiv. 15-27.Golden Text—Ver. 16.

Christ continues to comfort and teach His disciples ready for the time when He must leave them.

I. The Comforter(15-17). See the order in the spiritual life. First faith to believe in Him (ver. 1), then love to cling to Him, then obedience to work for Him. He will help them. He must leave them, but will not forget them. Will send Another to be with them always—the Comforter.

His person.Divine in nature; equal to the Father and Son (Acts v. 3, 4).

His name.Holy Ghost, or Holy Spirit of God.

His work.To aid Christ's people. How does He do so? By helping their prayers (Rom. viii. 26). By giving counsel,e.g.showing how to speak to adversaries (St. Matt. x. 19, 20), of which Stephen is an example (Acts vi. 10). By strengthening their souls to do right; hence called the Comforter or Strengthener. Also by revealing the things of God.

11. The Result(18-27). Consolations of Christ's people.Comfortby His continual presence.Lifepresent and future because of union with Him.

Lessons.1. Fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace.

2. If any man have not the spirit of Christ, he is none of His.

May 7th.—The Vine and the Branches.

To read—St. John xv. 1-16.Golden Text—Ver. 5.

This parable one of two only in this Gospel. Spoken in court of Temple after leaving Passover Feast.

I. The Parable(1-8).The Vineitself must be good and true, planted in soil prepared for it. Husbandman places, cares for, and watches over it. Unfruitful branches must be cut off, fruitful ones purged—to produce more fruit—dead ones burned. Much fruit redounds to glory of husbandman.

The meaning.Christ Himself is the true ideal Vine, doing always such things as please God. The husbandman is God, who placed Him in the world (iii. 16) and watched over Him (St. Matt. iii. 17). The branches are believers joined to Him by living faith. Fruit—the graces of a Christian life.

What are results of union with Christ the Vine?Lifeto the soul from life of Christ.Fruitoutward result of inward life.Answersto prayer. Christ and His people alike heard.Gloryto God the Father.

II. Results of Union(9-16). Metaphor dropped. Christ urges disciples to continue in His love. Then they will havefull joy;loveto all arising from love to Him;friendshipof Christ as evidenced by His death for them;knowledgebecause of revelation of Father.Permanenceof results.

Lesson.Are we truly joined to Christ? What fruit is seen in our lives?

Joy through Faith.

Bunyan, in "The Pilgrim's Progress," pictures Christiana as saying to Mercy, "What was the matter that you did laugh in your sleep last night?" And Mercy said, "But are you sure I laughed?" When she told her dream, Christiana said, "Laugh, ay, well you might to see yourself so well." She laughed because she dreamed that she had been welcomed into glory. To faith this is no dream. Saved by grace, adopted by the Father, united to the Son, taught by the Spirit, we have joy in the soul now and a good hope of glory hereafter.

May 14th.—Christ Betrayed and Arrested.

To read—St. John xviii. 1-14.Golden Text—Is. liii. 3.

Christ's hour now come—has finished teachings—must go forth to die. Path of sorrow to be trod—He does not shrink.

I. Christ Betrayed(1-11).The place.The garden or olive orchard of Gethsemane. Note that Christ went forth of His own will, knowing all before Him. Also He went not for concealment, but for prayer.

The band.Judas, His disciple, their leader. A band of Roman soldiers to prevent a tumult, and officers of the Temple police supplied by chief priests. Also chief priests and elders, and a mixed rabble (St. Luke xxii. 52). All had common hatred of Jesus of Nazareth.

The incidents.Jesus comes forth with His three disciples, Peter, James, John. He asks, "Whom seek ye?" Soldiers fall back in surprise. He asks again—they answer. He asks that disciples may go their way. Request granted; He lost none. St. Peter with sword wounds Malchus. Christ heals his ear (St. Luke xxii. 51) and rebukes Peter. Note the forbearance and majesty of Christ; the loving impetuosity of St. Peter; the malice of Judas and the gratified hatred of chief priests.

II. Christ a Prisoner(12-14). The soldiers close in. Prisoner bound because of attempt to rescue. The captain secures Christ, leads Him to Annas, chief of priests and president of Jewish Sanhedrim.

Lessons.From Judas.Beware of covetousness.

From St. Peter.The weapons of our warfare are not carnal.

From Christ.He loved me and gave Himself for me. What have I given Him?

Christ Loved Best.

A martyr was going to be burned for Christ's sake. His friends brought out his wife and young children, and made them kneel in a long row and ask their father, for their sakes, to deny the faith and live. But as he kissed them one by one he said, "I would do anything for your sakes that I might live with you, but since it is for Christ my Lord's sake, I must tear myself away even from you." So he went to the stake.

Short

Clonfert Cathedral, in County Galway, can boast a very remarkable and ancient doorway, which is regarded as one of the finest specimens of Hiberno-Romanesque work now in existence. The shafts and piers present an astonishing variety of decoration; every inch of its surface has been worked by the sculptor's tool. Above the rounded archway rises a triangular space filled with many carvings, while the archway itself consists of several decorated semicircles, one within the other. Norman and Romanesque porches may be found of grander proportions; but Brash, in his "Ecclesiastical Architecture of Ireland," declares that "in point of design and execution" he had not seen this beautiful porch "excelled by any similar features in these islands," and specially mentions its beauty of design and fertility of invention. The Cathedral itself has had a long and interesting history. It was founded by St. Brendan in the year 558, and suffered greatly from the Danes. It was burnt six times between 744 and 1179, and was plundered thrice between 949 and 1065. In 1541 it was almost destroyed. Repaired by Bishop Wolley in 1664, it was subsequently altered and improved to some extent, but no general work of restoration was done, and consequently it is in great need of repair. To this work Canon McLarney, the present rector of Clonfert, has set his hand. Though small, the building is very beautiful, and is now used as the parish church, the parish of Clonfert being very large and measuring twenty-seven Irish miles in circumference. The work of restoration is proceeding in sections as funds are provided by the public. The chancel has already been restored, and Canon McLarney hopes to collect a thousand pounds to complete the work on the nave. One need not leave the British Isles to see very ancient and interesting structures, and a writer lately said it would be worth a pilgrimage to Connaught to see Clonfert doorway alone.

doorway(Photo: Mr. A. C. White, Clonskea, Dublin.)A TWELFTH-CENTURY DOORWAY.

(Photo: Mr. A. C. White, Clonskea, Dublin.)A TWELFTH-CENTURY DOORWAY.

(Photo: Mr. A. C. White, Clonskea, Dublin.)

A TWELFTH-CENTURY DOORWAY.

Nowhere in England do the trained voices of a choir seem to harmonise more perfectly with the surroundings than in Westminster Abbey. Architecture, as an old German philosopher once described it, is but "frozen music" after all. The noble anthems that rise soaring upwards amongst the fluted columns and giant arches, the hymns of praise that roll through the long aisles seem, as we listen to the sacred music, not only to give thanks to Him who "made the earth so bright," but to Him who gave England such men as lie in the sculptured tombs around us. Not far from the Abbey—some three minutes' walk, in fact, through Dean's Yard—stands a tall, red-brick building. It is the choir school, where live the twenty-four boys of the choir under the headmastership of Mr.Arthur Hore. To gain admission, a boy must be at least eight years of age, possessing a good voice and the knowledge of the rudiments of music; he will also be expected to read and write fairly. His examination on these points will be conducted by the master of the choristers, Sir J. Frederick Bridge, or someone appointed by him. If he passes satisfactorily, he will become a probationer, paying £10 a year towards his expenses; at the end of three years, however, he will become a recognised member of the Abbey choir, and no further charge will be made. The internal arrangements of the choir house are excellent. On the ground floor are the big class-room and the dining-room. To see the youngsters attacking a joint of roast beef is a conclusive proof that the boy who sings like a young seraph is, nevertheless, far from being the wishy-washy individual that he is often represented to be in some poems and sentimental novels. On the second floor is another big class-room containing the school library. Walter Scott is there, and rows of well-thumbed volumes of Henty. Many years ago Princess Alice gave a present of books to the school. For some time they were kept ceremoniously shut up in a glass case. The present headmaster, however, recognising that the kind donor would have strongly objected to such a foolish use being made of the volumes, placed them in the library for general use. On the third floor are the plain, clean dormitories with their rows of little iron beds and the regulation striped rugs over all.

Bridge(Photo: Russell and Sons, Baker Street, W.)DR. BRIDGE AND THE WESTMINSTER CHOIR BOYS.

(Photo: Russell and Sons, Baker Street, W.)DR. BRIDGE AND THE WESTMINSTER CHOIR BOYS.

(Photo: Russell and Sons, Baker Street, W.)

DR. BRIDGE AND THE WESTMINSTER CHOIR BOYS.

Amid the discouragements which the recent revolution in Pekin has occasioned to those concerned in China's welfare—for the movement in question is manifestly anti-reform, anti-foreign, and consequently anti-Christian—there are many signs that such opposition cannot radically hinder this country's enlightenment. Such a sign is the progress of the Y.M.C.A. movement among Chinese youths, which is assuming considerable importance, especially in connection with mission schools. It was found desirable to invite from America an experienced worker in this department; and though it will be some time before this gentleman can speak Chinese, there is no difficulty in the matter of interpreters, native or foreign. Yesterday in our large Shanghai mission church—says a correspondent—there were gathered 200 Chinese boy-scholars from various mission stations in and near Shanghai, all of whom were either members of the local Y.M.C.A. or willing to join it. Earnest addresses were given and prayers offered, both in English and Chinese, the English addresses being admirablytranslated by a Christian Chinaman; while the bright hymn-singing of these strong young voices was a delightful sound. At the close of the morning meeting papers were distributed to the boys containing questions to be answered in writing, and a form, of Christian engagement to be signed. At the afternoon service many of these were returned most satisfactorily and intelligently filled in. Such assemblies have recently been held with much interest and zeal, and apparently solid results, at Nanking and other centres of missionary work.

At Tramore, near Waterford, a place where the Atlantic breakers dash with sublime fury against the rocks, there are on one of the headlands three towers, and on the middle one stands what is called "The Metal Man." This is a figure made of metal, and painted to resemble a sailor. With his finger he points to some very dangerous rocks that are to be shunned. There are rocks in life's troublesome sea that are ready to shipwreck the bodies and souls of the young. These we should point out to them with as much diligence as does the metal man when God has saved us from being shipwrecked upon them.

metal(Photo: A. H. Poole and Co., Waterford.)THE "METAL MAN," TRAMORE.

(Photo: A. H. Poole and Co., Waterford.)THE "METAL MAN," TRAMORE.

(Photo: A. H. Poole and Co., Waterford.)

THE "METAL MAN," TRAMORE.

Richard Baxter was all his long life physically weak, and for fourteen years had scarcely a waking hour free from pain. He felt himself continually "at the door of eternity." At the close of his life he said, "Weakness and pain helped me to study how to die; I am going now to see that for which I have lived and studied." His death was a fitting end to a life of pain and patience—a fulfilment of his own words: "After the rough and tempestuous day we shall at last have the quiet, silent night—light and rest together; the quietness of the night without its gloom."

The six beautiful plates which the readers ofThe Quiverhave the opportunity of acquiring, and the last coupon for which is contained in this number, are representative examples of the work of some of the most notable exponents of sacred art among modern British painters. The names of Leighton and Millais are now familiar in every household, and great interest attaches to the works from their hands included in this series of pictures. "The Star of Bethlehem," by Lord Leighton, was painted in 1862, when the artist was thirty-two years of age, and four years before his election as Associate of the Royal Academy. The main figure represents one of the magi on the terrace of his house, gazing at the miraculous light which led him and his fellows to search out Him, "who was born King of the Jews." "Christ in the House of His Parents" is one of the most wonderful pictures painted by Sir John Millais. It was exhibited at the Royal Academy in 1850, when the artist was but twenty years of age, and, as related in the article on "Pictorial Sermons" in our last number, aroused a storm of discussion among the critics. The work is a veritable parable in paint, and, as its allegories are all fully explained in the article referred to, we need not repeat them here. The picture has great interest, apart from this, as being one of the best specimens of the work of the artist's Pre-Raphaelite period. "Christ Washing Peter's Feet," by Ford Madox Brown, which was presented to the nation by a body of subscribers; and now hangs in the Tate Gallery at Millbank, is a typical painting, and one of the most beautiful examples of this artist's work. Exquisite in colour, it is a perfect specimen of what a picture dealing with a sacred subject should be. Full of reverence and piety, it yet illustrates the subject fully; the rugged figure of the apostle, expressing withal the penitence produced by the rebuking words, "If I wash thee not, thou hast no part with Me," contrasts strongly with the humility of the Master kneeling to His self-imposed task. "The Remorse of Judas," by the late Edward Armitage, R.A., is another picture to be seen at Millbank, and is, perhaps, one of the strongest works produced by this artist. The terror of remorse is expressed in every line of the face of the betrayer, while the cold indifference of the priests, now that their work is accomplished, is admirably portrayed. "The Raising of the Widow's Son of Nain," by W. C. T. Dobson, R.A., was shown at the Academy in 1868, and fully explains itself. The joy of the mother and the surprise of the beholders of the miracle are well rendered; but the main interest of the picture, of course, centres in the boy. His gaze is fixed upon Him whose voice has recalled him from the "valley of the shadow." Thelast picture of the series, by W. Dyce, R.A., was recently added to the national collection, and was removed from Trafalgar Square to Millbank when the new gallery was completed. It represents the Apostle John taking Mary to his own home after the death of their Lord. Mary carries on her arm the crown of thorns, and in the background may be seen Nicodemus and Joseph of Arimathea, who are just leaving the garden which contains the sepulchre. Mary Magdalene and the "other Mary" are seen seated at the mouth of the grave. The picture was painted in 1860.

According to a recent calculation, the amount given during the previous year by Churchmen towards Christian work of all kinds, such as Church Building, Home Missions, Foreign Missions, Education, etc., was over £5,750,000. The various Presbyterian Churches contributed during the same time for similar work a sum of £1,600,000, and the Wesleyans gave over £500,000; the Calvinistic Methodists about £228,500; the Baptists over £200,000; and the Primitive Methodists over £100,000. Of the Congregationalists and the "Friends" no such statistics are available, and it is estimated that other branches of the Christian Church in England gave an aggregate of not less than £150,000 towards the same work. Generally speaking, all the different bodies contribute in a fairly equal proportion, directly or indirectly, to the different kinds of Christian work—at any rate, sufficiently so for the comparison we wish to make here. So, taking the Church of England's returns as our standard, we find that these proportions are nearly as follows, 1 being our unit:—Church Building and Repairs, 35; Home Missions, 7; Foreign Missions, 10; Educational Work of all kinds, 20; various Charitable Works of other kinds, 6.

DIAGRAM ILLUSTRATING PUBLIC CHARITY.

The church(1)representsthemoneyspent in building places of worship.The mission room(2)"""home mission work.The native hut(3)"""foreign mission work.The school(4)"""educational work.The hall(5)"""other general charitable work.

The latest recipient of the Bronze Medal ofThe QuiverHeroes Fund is Annie Healand, a servant in the employ of Mr. Frederick Latham, of Sledmere. On the afternoon of January 28th last, two little boys and a girl were suddenly immersed beneath the ice whilst sliding on a pond. On hearing of this, Annie Healand, who is herself but fifteen years of age, immediately rushed to the rescue, and, plunging in, succeeded in bringing the little girl to the bank. She then endeavoured to find the two boys, who were still under the ice, but was at last reluctantly compelled to give up the search, through being overcome by the intense cold. The bodies of the lads were afterwards found, and the coroner congratulated the brave girl for the very plucky manner in which she had rescued one of the party and attempted to save the others.

We are still daily receiving the names of numbers of new members, and one roll of signatures which has just come to hand measures thirty feet in length. Any number of blank forms will be gladly sent, post free, to those requiring them. We may take this opportunity of announcing that the first member to send in a thousand signatures is Mr. John N. Munro, of 50, Park Road, Glasgow, to whom a cheque for Ten Pounds has been sent, in accordance with our offer.

TheSpecial Silver MedalandPresentation Bibleoffered for the longest known Sunday-school service in the county ofDevonshire(for which applications were invited up to February 28th, 1899) have been gained by

Louisa Jane Large,Cross Street, Northam, Bideford,

who has distinguished herself bysixty-twocomplete years' service in Northam Church Sunday School.

As already announced, the next territorial county for which claims are invited for the Silver Medal is

and applications, on the special form, must be received on or before March 30th, 1899. We may add thatCheshireis the following county selected, the date-limit for claims in that case being April 30th, 1899. This county, in its turn, will be followed by the territorial county ofSomersetshire, for which the date will be one month later—viz. May 31st, 1899.

AN INTERESTING LETTER.

The following letter, received from the Devonshire Silver Medallist, of whom particulars are given above, will doubtless be interesting to all our readers, and especially to Sunday school workers:—

"In sending the enclosed certificates I should like to add that I began my career as a Sunday school teacher at the age of ten, with a class of four little girls, and proud enough I was. That was some time in the year 1836. From that date to the present (1899), I have been teaching continuously in the same school, except when occasional illness or absence from home for a few Sundays made a break. I am now teaching the grandchildren of former scholars. Many changes have I seen; such a difference in the teaching and general management of Sunday schools since 1836! Only two or three individuals are now living who were with us when I began my work."

The following is a list of contributions received from February 1st, 1899, up to and including February 28th, 1899. Subscriptions received after this date will be acknowledged next month:—

For"The Quiver" Waifs' Fund: J. J. E. (135th donation), 5s.; Anglo-Indian, 5s.; M. R. B., Ipswich, 4s. 2d.; C. E. H., 3s. 6d.; A Glasgow Mother (105th donation), 1s.; E. A. W., Petersfield, 2s. 6d.ForDr. Barnardo's Homes: An Irish Girl, £1; E. J. L., Glenageary, 10s.; X. J., 10s. 6d. The following amounts have been sent direct:—A Well-Wisher, £2; Lila Noel, £1; G. C., 8s.; P. P. O., 5s.; Ruth L., £1.ForThe Hospital for Women: A Thank-Offering, 1s.ForThe Leper's Mission Fund: Two JerseyQuiverReaders, 4s. 6d.

For"The Quiver" Waifs' Fund: J. J. E. (135th donation), 5s.; Anglo-Indian, 5s.; M. R. B., Ipswich, 4s. 2d.; C. E. H., 3s. 6d.; A Glasgow Mother (105th donation), 1s.; E. A. W., Petersfield, 2s. 6d.

ForDr. Barnardo's Homes: An Irish Girl, £1; E. J. L., Glenageary, 10s.; X. J., 10s. 6d. The following amounts have been sent direct:—A Well-Wisher, £2; Lila Noel, £1; G. C., 8s.; P. P. O., 5s.; Ruth L., £1.

ForThe Hospital for Women: A Thank-Offering, 1s.

ForThe Leper's Mission Fund: Two JerseyQuiverReaders, 4s. 6d.

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(BASED ON THE INTERNATIONAL SCRIPTURE LESSONS.)

61. What did our Lord do as a rebuke to His Apostles when they disputed among themselves as to who should be the greatest?

62. In the discourse at the Last Supper, what did our Lord say is to be the distinctive mark of all His disciples? Quote passage.

63. In what words did Jesus warn St. Peter of the temptation which awaited him?

64. By what promise did our Lord seek to comfort His Apostles on the eve of His crucifixion?

65. Which of the Apostles seems to have been very slow in comprehending the divinity of our Lord?

66. Quote some words from our Lord's answer to St. Philip in which He clearly declares His Godhead?

67. What does our Lord say is the true test of our love to Him?

68. What is the great blessing Christ gives as the result of the influence of the Holy Spirit in our hearts?

69. What is the general purport of our Lord's parable of the Vine?

70. What does our Lord give as the greatest proof of true love?

71. What was the position of the garden of Gethsemane?

72. From what circumstances do we gather that the Jews expected great difficulty in arresting our blessed Lord?

49. In the parable of the Sheepfold our Lord speaks of a porter who had charge of the door, and of a thief climbing over a fence (St. John x. 1-3).

50. St. John x. 9.

51. Our Lord speaks of Himself as the Good Shepherd, who giveth His life for the sheep, while the Jewish teachers, as hirelings, cared not for them (St. John x. 11-14).

52. St. John vii. 15.

53. St. John v. 39.

54. Turning the water into wine and healing the nobleman's son (St. John ii. 1-11 and iv. 46-54).

55. The fact that the body had been buried three days.

56. That it was done to increase the faith of the Apostles by showing them that there was no limitation to the power of Christ (St. John xi. 15).

57. So many Jews believed in Christ that the chief priests thought of killing Lazarus as well as Jesus (St. John xi. 47-53 and xii. 10, 11).

58. Because it would seem that Martha was hostess at the house of Simon the Leper, where Mary, her sister, anointed our Lord with the precious ointment of spikenard (compare St. John xii. 1-3 with St. Mark xiv. 3).

59. St. John tells us that Judas Iscariot acted as treasurer for our Lord and His disciples, but that he was a thief (St. John xii. 6 and xiii. 29).

60. Caiaphas prophesied that Jesus should die (St. John xi. 39).

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