and how pleasant the reception of them makes the circle! To draw up the armchair and get the slippers for father,-to watch if any little service can be rendered to mother, to help brother or assist sister, -how pleasant it makes home!

A little boy has a hard lesson given him at school, and his teacher asks him if he thinks he can get it; for a moment the little fellow hangs down his head, but the next he looks brightly up, "I can get my sister to help me," he says. That is right, sister, help little brother, and you are binding a tie round his heart that may save him in many an hour of dark temptation.

I don't know how to do this sum, but brother will show me," says another little

one.

Sister, I've dropped a stitch in my knitting; I tried to pick it up, but it has run down, and I can't fix it."

The little girl's face is flushed, and she watches her sister with a nervous anxiety while she replaces the "naughty stitch."

"Oh, I am so glad!" she says, as she receives it again from the hands of her sister all nicely arranged; "you are a good girl, Mary."

"Bring it to me sooner next time, and then it won't get so bad," says the gentle voice of Mary. The little one bounds away with a light heart to finish her task.

If Mary had not helped her, she would have lost her walk in the garden. Surely it is better to do as Mary did than to say, Oh, go away, and don't trouble me:" or to scold the little one all the time you are performing the trifling favour.

"

Little acts of kindness, gentle words, loving smiles,-they strew the path of life with flowers,-they make the sunshine

brighter and the green earth greener; and He who bade us "love one another," looks with favour upon the gentle and kindhearted, and he pronounced the meek blessed.

Brothers, sisters, love one another, bear with one another. If one offend, forgive and love him still; and whatever may be the faults of others, we must remember that, in the sight of God, we have others as great, and perhaps greater, than theirs.

Be kind to the little ones; they will often be fretful and wayward. Be patient with them, and amuse them. How often a whole family of little ones are restored to good humour by an elder member proposing some new play, and perhaps joining in it, or gathering them around her while she relates some pleasant story!

And brothers, do not think, because you are stronger, it is unmanly to be gentle to your little brothers and sisters. True nobleness of heart and true manliness of conduct are never coupled with pride and arrogance.

Nobility and gentleness go hand in hand; and when I see a young man kind and respectful to his mother, and gentle and forbearing to his brothers and sisters, I think he has a noble heart.

Ah! many a mother's and sister's heart has been wrung by the cold neglect and stiff unkindness of those whom God has made their natural protectors.

Brothers, sisters, never be unkind to one another, never be ashamed to help one another, never be ashamed to help any one, and you will find that though it is pleasant to receive favours, yet it is more blessed to give than to receive.

ON CHERISHING THE INFLUENCES OF THE HOLY SPIRIT.-If we would wish for much of the presence of God by his Spirit, we must learn to set a high value upon it; we must seek it by fervent prayer; we must cherish habitual dependance on divine inAuence; and we must take care to maintain a deportment suited to the character of that Divine Agent. When the apostle exhorts us not to grieve the Spirit of God, by which we are sealed to the day of redemption, it is forcibly implied, that he is susceptible of offence, and that to offend him involves heinous ingratitude and folly; ingratitude, for what a requital is this for being sealed to the day of redemption! and

folly, inasmuch as we may fitly say on this, as Paul did on a different occasion, "Who is he that maketh us glad, but the same that is made sorrow by us?" Have we any other comforter when he is withdrawn? Can a single ray of light visit us in his absence, or can we be safe for a moment without his guidance and support? If the immense and infinite Spirit, by a mysterious condescension, deigns to undertake the conduct of a worm, ought it not to yield the most implicit submission? The appropriate duty owing to a faithful and experienced guide, is a ready compliance with his dictates; and how much more may this be expected, when the dis

parity between the parties is no less than infinite! The language of the Holy Spirit, in describing the manners of the ancient Israelites, is awfully monitory to professors in every age: "They rebelled, and vexed his Holy Spirit; therefore he turned to be their enemy, and fought against them." As we wish to avoid whatever is more curious than useful, we shall not stay to enquire precisely on what occasions, or to what extent, the Spirit is capable of being resisted. It may be sufficient to observe, it is evident from melancholy experience, that it is very possible to neglect what is the obvious tendency of his motions, which is invariably to produce universal holiness. "The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, goodness, meekness, gentleness, temperance, faith:" whatever is contrary to these, involves an opposition to the Spirit, and is directly calculated to quench his sacred influence. From his descending on Christ in the form of a dove, as well as from many express declarations of Scripture, we may with certainty conclude the indulgence of all the irascible and malignant passions to be peculiarly repugnant to his nature; and it is remarkable, that the injunction of not grieving the Holy Spirit, is immediately followed by a particular caution against cherishing such dispositions; "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil-speaking, be put away from you, with all malice. And be ye kind one to another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you." Have you not found by experience, that the indulgence of the former has destroyed

THE MONTH.

that self-recollection and composure which are so essential to devotion ? Vindictive passions surround the soul with a sort of turbulent atmosphere, than which nothing can be conceived more opposite to that calm and holy light in which the blessed Spirit loves to dwell. The indulgence of sensual lusts, or of whatever enslaves the soul to the appetites of the body, in violation of the rules of sobriety and chastity, it seems almost unnecessary to add, must have a direct tendency to quench his sacred influences; wherever such desires prevail, they war against the soul, immerse it in carnality, and utterly indispose it to every thing spiritual and heavenly. "That which is born of the Spirit is spirit;" it bears a resemblance to its Author in being a spiritual production, which requires to be nourished by divine meditation, by pure and holy thoughts.-Robert Hall.

A HINT TO CRITICS.-The venerable Job Orton, the biographer of Doddridge, in one of his letters, relates a fact which may furnish a useful hint to both ministers and their hearers. He says:-" My grandfather once solicited a very excellent but very modest minister to pray in the family, where several others were present, who had supped with him. He begged to be excused, alleging that he had not thought of it, and there were so many other ministers present. My grandfather replied in his familiar way,' Sir, you are to speak to your Master and not to them; and my Bible tells me that he is not so critical and censorious as men are." "

This month has been by no means as eventful as was the last. After the exciting news of the Fall of Sebastopol, little that has reached us seems to be of much importance, though, doubtless, there has been a good deal to alter the aspects of affairs; and to open up the ath of the future. Changed, indeed, is the Appearance of things before the city, which as besieged nearly a year previous to its fall. The trenches are filled up, the embankments thrown down, and the camps removed to other positions; while the booming of cannon, which had continued to fall upon the ear for so long a time, is now, to a great extent, silent. The allied armies have, however, so changed their positions, that it is apprehended that Prince Gortschakoff will not be able much longer to hold his place in the Crimea, and that he will be compelled to withdraw either to Perekop or Nicolaieff, which latter place is now seriously endangered by successes that have been given to the fleets at Kinburn and Oschakoff,-at which places, situated on the mainland of Russia, the fortifications have been destroyed, and thus the way into the Dnieper opened. At Kars, too, in Asia Minor, an important success has been given to the

Turks, who had defended the place with much difficulty for months. So that, altogether, the Russian position is becoming rapidly one of greater difficulty and danger; and we may therefore hope that there is greater probability of the restoration of peace.

Much, indeed, is peace to be desired and prayed for. Apart from the considerations of humanity, which have been always equally forcible, the war is now causing great pressure and difficulty amongst the trading classes, indicated by the increase of the rate of discount at the Bank of England to six per cent. Affairs on the continent are also such as to cause great apprehension; and many are asking the question whether all the objects have not been now gained, that could be gained even by years of war; and whether, therefore, the voice of prudence, as well as the voice of humanity, does not call for the cessation of hostilities? Whatever may be the answer to this question, it is certainly one that should be carefully considered, and one that must force itself upon us as a nation, professing, at least, to be under the influence of christian sentiments and principles.

Since the preparation of our last number

the testimonial has been presented to Mr. Courtauld, the chief defender of religious and constitutional freedom in the recent Braintree Church Rate contest. The proceedings were interesting and appropriate. We are glad to know that preparations are being made to continue the effort for the abolition of Church Rates, with which effort this presentation is naturally associated, in the next session of Parliament. It only needs that Dissenters should be united and resolved, and this effort might be made with assured success.

Some attention has been attracted during the month to the efforts which are being made, especially by a Society just formed, calling itself the "National Sunday League," to secularise the Lord's-day. It is to be feared that, with the favourable view taken of the movement by certain politicians, the Society may become

somewhat formidable; but we do not at all fear that it will be successful to any large extent. The national feeling in England is against it; and probably the visits that have been made this year to Paris, where the plan of the "National Sunday League" is in full operation, will not do much to remove this feeling. Who, that has spent a Sunday in Paris, would wish the English Sunday to be ever like that?

Death has of late been very busy, and has gained some rich spoils in various circles. Sir J. B. Williams, a man well known in Dissenting circles, has fallen. Lord Wharncliffe has left a place, which he had long filled with honour, vacant in aristocratic circles. Mr. Lucas, whose name will be remembered in connexion with Irish Politics, is dead. More than all will Sir William Molesworth be missed in the national councils, and in the national heart. He will be a loss to the country, and to the government. He has been removed at a time when able and honest men, such as he, can ill be spared either by the Crown or the People.

EDINBURGH.

The anniversary services in connection with the Baptist Union and Theological Institution of Scotland, were held on Wednesday, October 4th, in the Waterloo Rooms, Edinburgh. On Tuesday evening the Rev. William Lees, of Glasgow, preached the annual sermon from James v. 20,-an excellent and appropriate discourse. On Wednesday morning the committee met at ten o'clock for business, and at six o'clock in the evening a soirée was held in the large hall, when the Rev. F. Johnstone (Theological Tutor) presided, and read the reports, which were highly gratifying. The amount of work done in class proved the diligence of the students in every department of their mental culture, while the funds of the institution never were in a more prosperous state. Addresses were then delivered by various speakers. The Rev. J. Haigh, of Falkirk, spoke on "The necessity for an educated ministry." The

Rev. J. Pearson, of Leith, in his usual quaint and happy_style, further enforced its importance. The Rev. D. Wallace, of Paisley, gave an eloquent and impressive address on "The necessity for an earnest ministry;" and the Rev. J. Simpson (late of Middleton) closed, in his sweet and powerful style, on The necessity for an earnest church." It was truly a season of refreshing to all, and each one felt the importance of maintaining vigorously this academy in Scotland.

LUTON, BEDS.

On Tuesday, the 8th instant, a valedictory service was held in the Town Hall, Luton, in connection with the removal of the Rev. J. Harcourt from the pastorate of the church at Wellington Street Chapel, to the church meeting at Regent Street, Lambeth, London. After Mr. Harcourt's friends had taken tea together, a public meeting was held, when the hall, which will seat about seven hundred people, was well filled. The chair was taken by James Walker, Esq., one of the deacons. After singing and prayer, the chairman, in a few suitable remarks, stated the object of the meeting, and expressed his own regret, and also that of the church with which he was connected, at the loss they were about to experience by the removal of their esteemed pastor, who had been so useful among them during the last five years. The meeting was then addressed by the Revs. J. Harcourt, J. J. Davies, D. Gould, of Dunstable, T. Lewis, of Houghton Regis, J. Bird, of Hatfield, T. Owen, of Cranfield, J. Hart, and Mr. Goodwin, of Houghton, Hunts. The meeting was characterised by deep feeling throughout, particularly amongst the young who were present. It appears that when Mr. Harcourt came to the town, the church numbered seventy-four members, and through his instrumentality three hundred and fourteen persons have been added, and a large congregation established. The only cause assigned for his leaving the church is that of a larger sphere of usefulness offering in a densely populated part of the metropolis.

BOW, MIDDLESEX.

On Tuesday evening the 25th of September, the public recognition of the Rev. W. P. Balfern, as pastor of the Baptist church at Bow, took place. The Rev. B. Preece, of Poplar, commenced the service by giving out a hymn, after which the Rev. Samuel Davis, the neighbouring Independent minister, read and prayed; the Rev. F. Wills, of Eagle street, stated the nature and constitution of a gospel church; the Rev. C. Woollacott, of Wild street, then put the usual questions to the church and pastor, which being answered, the Rev. J. Angus, D.D., in an affectionate and earnest prayer commended the church and pastor to the blessing of God; the Rev. C. Stovel, of Whitechapel, then delivered an impressive charge to the pastor; the Rev. W. B. Bowes, who was to have addressed the church, finding the time had expired,

kindly agreed to fulfil his part of the engagement the next Sabbath evening. The Revs. J. Whitemore, Kent, P. Cater, R. B. Isaac, and other ministers, were present; and the services, both on the Tuesday and on the following Lord's-day evening, were truly edifying, and will be remembered with pleasure.

BOROUGHBRIDGE.

A public tea meeting was held in the Court house of this town, on Wednesday, September 26th, for the purpose of defraying the expenses incurred in recent alterations and improvements in the Baptist chapel, and also to give an expression of becoming respect to the Rev. G. C. Catterall, who has resigned the pastorate of the Baptist church there. Friends from all the different religious bodies in the town joined in the meeting: the spacious room was crowded to overflowing; and, after utterances of fraternal esteem from many speakers, including the Rev. J. Hanson, of Milnsbridge, one of a missionary deputation to the town, it was moved by the Rev. J. P. Chown, of Bradford, seconded by the Rev. J. Williams (Independent minister), of Ouseburn, heartily supported by the Rev. J. E. Cullen (Independent minister), of Boroughbridge, and carried unanimously,-"That this meeting would accord its high regard for the christian character and ministerial worth of the Rev. G. C. Catterall, who has laboured nearly seven years in the town and neighbourhood, and, while regretting his removal from amongst us, earnestly prays for his success and comfort in the whole of his future course."

PARK CHAPEL, BRENTford.

This chapel was opened for worship on Wednesday, the 12th of September, when the Rev. William Brock preached in the morning, and the Rev. Samuel Martin in the evening. The following ministers also took part in the services:-Revs. J. W. Lance, pastor; R. Robinson, York-road, Lambeth; S. Davis, Bow-road; E. Morley, Brentford: J. Glendenning, Uxbridge; A. G. Fuller, Cardiff; R. Ann, Isleworth; and -. Rigg, Brentford. The day was beautifully fine, and there was a large gathering of ministers and friends from all parts. About 160 sat down to dinner, and above 300 to tea. On Sunday, the 16th, the Rev. J. W. Lance preached in the morning, and the Rev. Daniel Katterns in the evening. The proceeds of the two days were about £110. The chapel is an elegant Gothic building, the cost of which, including the freehold ground and all extra expenses, such as lighting, warming, &c.. is about £2,000. Of this, between £800 and £900 has yet to be raised.

LEE, HIGH-ROAD.

On Tuesday evening, the 18th of September, a deeply interesting meeting was held in the Baptist chapel, High-road, Lee, at which about five-and-twenty disciples of our Lord Jesus Christ formed themselves

into a christian church. After short devotional services, a solemn covenant of fellowship, which had been previously considered and adopted, was signed by all who were present. An affectionate and unanimous request was then presented to the Rev. R. H. Marten, B.A., late of Abingdon, to undertake the pastorate of the church. To this he acceded, expressing his earnest hope that the future would prove that he had been directed by infinite wisdom amongst them. After the election of deacons, the sacred engagements of the evening were concluded by the celebration of the Lord's Supper.

SALISBURY.

On Wednesday evening, September 19th, a most interesting meeting was held in the Baptist chapel, Salisbury, to commemorate the bi-centenary of the formation of the Baptist church in that city. The Rev. Thomas Hands, the pastor of the church, took the chair. Addresses were delivered by the Rev. W. Haylen and the Rev. R. Chancellor, of Salisbury (Independents); the Rev. J. Collyer, of Downton, and the Rev. S. Pugh, of Southampton (Baptists). A memorial of the church from its formation to the present time was read on the occasion; and the evening was spent in a most pleasant and profitable manner.

HAWTON ROAD, NEWARK.

The Baptist church meeting in the above place of worship, having given an earnest and unanimous invitation to the Rev. Richard Bayly, of Horton College, Bradford, to become its pastor, and he having accepted the same, he commenced his stated ministry on the second Sabbath in October. Present appearances indicate a pleasing prospect of usefulness; and it is the united and fervent prayer of both pastor and people, that the Divine blessing may rest on the union thus formed, reviving and extending this long drooping cause.

GLOUCESTER.

We understand that the Rev. George M'Michael, B.A., has resigned the pastorate of the Baptist church at Gloucester, and that his labours there terminated at the end of last month.

Obituary.

THE REV. J. H. TOCKER.

Died, August 29th, at St. Mabyn, Cornwall, where he had gone in the hope of recruiting his health and strength, the Rev. J. H. Tucker, pastor of the Baptist church in Winchester, in the 30th year of his age. He was publicly recognised as the pastor of the above church, April 17th, in the present year; shortly after which his health failed, and he was compelled to retire from the scene of his labours; and after four months severe suffering which he bore with christian meekness and fortitude, he expired, rejoicing in that Saviour who had suffered and died for him, leaving a widow and one

son.