assuredly! nor did he know the titles of Swedenborg's doctrines. He finally agreed, however, to take the titles as Mr. Heppell had stated them; but when the announcement appeared, they were precisely the same subjects he had given out at first. We immediately circulated a handbill, stating that he would not be met, as he had not fulfilled his promise to take Swedenborg's doctrines, but had substituted others of his own. This was galling to him, as by discussion he expected to bring more grist to his mill. His lectures were only thinly attended, for by this time there began to be a slight reaction in the minds of the people, in consequence of Dr. Brindley's unchristian-like bearing and dominant manner. After the last lecture, the Doctor announced that he was off to Scarborough the following week.

During the fortnight, our friends had not been inactive; one of them, at his own expense, had 2000 eight-page tracts printed and circulated, containing extracts from Swedenborg's writings. We also distributed a great number of New Church tracts, took Noble's " Appeal," "True Christian Religion," &c., to some of the leading men for perusal, which were accepted, and are not yet returned. We hope to hear of some good from them. We entered into correspondence with the Rev. W. Woodman, soliciting him to give a course of lectures in York, in reply to which he kindly responded, and sent the copy of a bill, with the subjects of his lectures. The first week we announced that Mr. Woodman would give a course of lectures, and also printed the copy of a letter, in which it was shewn that there was a discussion pending between Mr. Woodman and Dr. Brindley, which was to come off at Northampton, and was now standing still on Dr. Brindley's account. This the Doctor denounced as a lie; and talked much about having three secretaries in Northampton, and they had mismanaged it amongst them; but he was always ready.

The three lectures announced by Mr. Woodman were:

1. "Swedenborg: his Life, Character, and Mission."

2. "Marriage: its eminent Spiritual Uses," &c.

3. "A Brief Review of the Doctrines of the New Church, and their Scriptural Character."

Discussion was invited. These lec

tures were delivered on the evenings of the 17th, 18th, and 19th days of Dec. Dr. Brindley had requested his audiences not to attend Mr. Woodman's lectures.

The attendance at the first lecture was about 300. Mr. Winship in the chair. Mr. Woodman gave a clear and rapid review of the life, character, and mission of Swedenborg, which was listened to with great attention; after which a few questions were put, which Mr. Woodman answered satisfactorily.

In the second lecture, Mr. Woodman shewed that marriage was a spiritual union, and that it was ordained by the Lord for the various uses of preparing the human family for heaven; that this world is the seminary of heaven; that true marriage is in and of the spirit, and that it will endure for ever,-"What God hath joined together let not man put asunder." There were a few ludicrous questions put this evening; and one man was shedding tears at the thought that he should have "to live for ever with his wife."

The last lecture was much better attended, in consequence of a report that Dr. Brindley "was coming," which report proved to be true, for shortly after Mr. Woodman had commenced his lecture, Dr. Brindley, accompanied by two or three ministers of religion, marched into the hall, took seats on the platform,-Dr. Brindley seating himself, in a consequential manner, close to the chairman (Mr. Heppell),—and began to take notes of the lecture. Mr. Woodman had taken for his subject this evening, a reply to the four doctrines, mentioned above, that Dr. Brindley had lectured on the preceding week. After the arrival of Dr. Brindley, Mr. Woodman seemed to gain new courage and strength, and a ose like a giant refreshed with new wine, and in a clear, Scriptural, and rational manner, delivered one of the most eloquent and convincing lectures on the New Church doctrines we ever heard. The audience paid marked attention during its delivery, and an evident reaction was taking place in their minds. The lecture concluded, Dr. Brindley rose and said "He would not be confined to the order of the meeting, but take as much time as he liked. (Ten minutes was the time allowed.) He had come all the way from Scarborough, and he would appoint another chair

man; and he was determined to have the time he liked." This was said in the confidence and assurance that he had the whole audience with him. After some boisterous language from him, and determination on the part of the chairman and Mr. Woodman, the Doctor was compelled to confine his remarks to the time apppointed, the majority of the audience being, at this time, in favour of Mr. Woodman.

Dr. Brindley then challenged Mr. Woodman to a public discussion, which was finally settled to take place in York the first week in February; the proceeds, after paying legal expenses, to be given to some public charity. Thus ended a series of meetings, of the most exciting character, ranging over three weeks; during the whole of which time, you may in some measure conceive the state of anxiety in which the members of the New Church were kept, to be renewed again on the 4th, 5th, 6th, and 7th days of February next. Committees are appointed for making the necessary arrangements, and all are progressing favourably.

Our little society had often lamented their inability to get the name and writings of Swedenborg before the public attention, and had expressed, on many occasions, the opinion that there were thousands in York who had never heard the name of Swedenborg; but this cause of lamentation has now ceased for ever, for we verily believe that there is now scarcely man, woman, or child in York, but that has heard both the name of the New Church and Swedenborg. It is, no doubt, under the Divine Providence, and much good will be the result.

There is now a great demand for books, and our Sunday services are better attended by strangers.

'We cannot close this notice without expressing our thanks to the Manchester Tract Association, for a generous supply of tracts for distribution; also to the London Missionary Society, for their liberal response to the application made to them for assistance; as well as to the Rev. Woodville Woodman, for the able manner in which he defended the New Church against the unprincipled and scurrilous attack of Dr. Brindley. I am, dear Sir, yours respestfully, ISAAC WEBSTER, Secretary.

York, Jan. 11th, 1862.

BRISTOL.

To the Secretary of the National

Missionary Institution.

Dear Sir,-In conformity with the arrangement made with your excellent institution, the Rev. E. Madeley visited this society for a few days at the commencement of last month. On Sunday, 1st December, he preached at the society's room,—the subject in the morning being "The Lord Jesus Christ, the Great Refiner," Malachi iii. 3; in the evening-" The Hidden Manna, and the White Stone, or the Reward of the Conquering Christian," Rev. ii. 17.

On Monday evening, the 2nd December, the sixteenth anniversary of this society was celebrated by a tea meeting, when the Rev. J. W. Barnes and several friends from Bath attended, and a very delightful evening was spent. Upwards of fifty partook of tea, after which the meeting was addressed by Mr. Barnes and Mr. Hall, of Bath, Mr. Beattie and Mr. Methey, members of the Bristol society, and the Rev. E. Madeley. The evening was enlivened by the speeches being interspersed with music and singing,-a piano having been kindly lent by a friend, in addition to which, the society's harmonium was called into requisition.

On Tuesday evening, the 3rd December, the subject of Mr. Madeley's discourse was-"The God that answereth by Fire, the Christian's God," 1 Kings xviii. 24.

During Mr. Madeley's sojourn he took the opportunity of visiting, at their own houses, as many of the members and friends as time would permit; and it is hoped that the friendly manner in which he was everywhere received, and the opportunity afforded of private conversation with one so well qualified for paying pastoral visits and imparting instruction, may have a beneficial effect upon our society. The period of the year militated against large attendances; but our room was completely filled upon all occasions except the Tuesday evening, when the weather was very unpropitious.

We hope at a future time, and at a more reasonable period of the year, again to have the benefit of Mr. Madeley's services, which, I am happy to say, on his recent visit, gave satisfaction to all our members.-I am, dear Sir, yours truly, CHAS. WM. BRAGG, Sec.

Mr. F. Pitman.

ВАТН.

My dear Sir, I am directed by the New Church Society in this city to convey to you, as Secretary of the National Missionary Institute, their sincere expressions of gratitude to the above society for sending the Rev. E. Madeley to deliver a course of sermons on New Church subjects in this city, free of charge.

The subjects were as follows:-On Sunday morning, December 8th, 1861, "Nicodemus, or the Seeker after Truth;" in the evening, "The God who answereth Fire, the Christian's God;" and on the following Tuesday evening, "The Second Advent not a Personal Coming, but in the Glory, Power, and Spirit of His Divine Word." These were delivered to large audiences, and were highly calculated to make a deep impression upon every thoughtful mind; and, judging from the great attention shewn by the congregation, many such must have been present..

Mr. Madeley also attended a tea meeting in our library, and addressed the church in a very interesting discourse, and delighted us all by his extreme kindness and affability of manner.

Allow me once more to thank you very sincerely for the kindness shewn to this society by the National Missionary Institution, and believe me to be, my dear Sir, yours very sincerely,

WILLIAM GIBBS, Sec.

DALTON. The Sunday-school annual festival was held on the evening of Christmas Day-T. L. Marsden, Esq., in the chair. The festival was exceedingly well attended, and the large and convenient school, erected by the munificence of the late Mr. Senior, was filled. Between two and three hundred persons sat down to tea. Addresses were delivered, and a very choice selection of miscellaneous music was performed by the choir. Miss Peace presided at the pianoforte, and the services of Miss Broadbent, of Meltham, having been secured, added considerably to the rational enjoyment of the festive occasion. Mr. Francis Hirst, of Dalton, alluded to the painful event which had deprived Her Majesty the Queen of an affection. ate husband, and this nation of a wise councillor, and which had called forth

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the universal sympathy of the people of Great Britain. The proceedings were opened by singing the Christmas Hymn, in which all joined. Next the sweet song, "Mary of Argyle," effectively sung by Mr. Kilner. This was succeeded by Master Harry Bruce, from London, aged eight, reciting Speak gently." Miss Broadbent, assisted by Mr. Fitton, then entertained the audience with Verdi's duet, "Home to our Mountains," being loudly cheered. The first part was concluded by the song, "The last Rose of Summer," by Mr. Armitage; and "The sea is England's glory," by Mr. Castle. After ten minutes' interval, the second part of the entertainment was entered upon, and proved, if we may judge from the plaudits of the audience, still more satisfactory. The duet, Why answer so demurely?" by Miss Broadbent and Mr. R. H. Armitage, was warmly applauded. Between the different pieces, Mr. Marsden, the chairman, and leader of the society, enlivened the meeting by brief allusions to the customs of the East. Some of these, illustrating the truth of the Word of God, seemed to give considerable pleasure to all present. Many of the boys and girls of the Sunday school recited pieces, and demeaned themselves admirably; one of these recitals was that well-planned dialogue, on "Our Amusements," which appeared in the Juvenile Magazine so lately. After the National Anthem had been sung, the chairman concluded the meeting by a benediction, and the friends separated about ten o'clock.

DARWEN.

Avenham-road, Preston. My dear Sir, I have been delivering some lectures at Darwen for the Missionary Society; a course of four is arranged, and three have come off. The Assemby Room, the best in the town, has been engaged for the purpose, and it has been crowded every evening. The proprietors of the room say that there have been upwards of 500 each evening. The lectures have been about an hour and a half long, followed by another hour in answering questions, which seem to have been put in a spirit of Christian inquiry; and the audience has on each occasion been very cordial with us. The last of the course will be delivered next Tuesday evening. I believe good is being done, especially in spreading

abroad the knowledge of our heavenly doctrines. I may say, however, that I have found it hard work, and that I am suffering from a severe cold in consequence of the heat of the room and subsequent exposure. I am, my dear Sir, yours truly, E. D. RENDELL. Rev. W. Bruce.

MELBOURNE, DERBYSHIRE. Through the liberality of our Birmingham friends, this society has again been favoured with a visit from the Rev. Edward Madeley, whose services were obtained for Sunday, 26th of January. Both morning and evening we had numerous and attentive congregations. The afternoon was, as usual, devoted to the celebration of the "Lord's Supper;" number of communicants twenty-one. On Monday evening, a social tea meeting was held, at which upwards of fifty persons were present. After the repast, the chair was occupied by the Rev. Edward Madeley. There were present from Derby, the Rev. Jno. Hyde, and Messrs. Barton and Rodgers, each of whom entertained the audience with excellent speeches. Mr. Thos. Adcock as leader, and Mr. Calloway as minister of the society, were also called upon to say a few words. The meeting was pronounced by some of the friends as the most interesting one they had ever attended, in connection with the society. Our pastoral friend returned on Tuesday, but we are expecting another visit early in April. The Rev. Jno. Hyde has also engaged to exchange pulpits with Mr. Calloway on the 16th February.

HENRY CALLOWAY.

PRESTON.-LECTURE ON SWEDENBORG. On Sunday evening, 26th January, the Rev. Mr. Squires, the Unitarian minister of this town, delivered a lecture on Swedenborg, which had been publicly announced. It was attended by several New Church friends, and they all speak of it as a creditable effort to do justice to Swedenborg as a man. He spoke of him as an eminently learned person; as a philosopher, large and various in his inquiries, and profound in his inductions.

He was a man whose life was at once industrious, honourable, and unblemished; and whose death was pious, sensible, and resigned: and a hope was expressed that all the congregation might obtain so good a prospect for

heaven as he. Although Swedenborg was regarded as an eminently good, truthful, and religious man, the lecturer was evidently perplexed with his theology. He did not question the possibility of his having intercourse with the spiritual world; and stated his belief, that heaven was much nearer than was usually believed, but still he thought there might be some mistake about it; and that Swedenborg's experiences might be the results of trances, to which he had been subject from his youth. This, however, was a thoroughly unauthorised statement, and seems to have been a loose or hasty inference from Swedenborg's letter to Dr. Beyer, respecting his childhood, in which he said :-"From my fourth to my tenth year, my thoughts were constantly expressed by reflections on God, on salvation, and on the spiritual affections of man. I often revealed things in my discourses which filled my parents with astonishment, and made them declare at times, that certainly the angels spoke through my mouth." The New Church doctrine of the Lord was objected to, upon the common Unitarian grounds; and her trinity was said to be not much more intelligible than the orthodox. The doctrine of the Word concerning a spiritual and celestial sense was thought to be fanciful; and that of the intermediate state was doubted, on the ground that it gave man a second opportunity to improve his condition! Swedenborg's views of heaven and hell were considered to be reasonable and satisfactory; and his doctrine of charity, as being the essential of salvation, and that faith without it was of no avail, was highly applauded, and earnestly recommended to the attention and culture of all.

BRIGHTLINGSEA.

R.

On Wednesday, January 15th, 1862, the annual meeting of the New Church Sunday-school, Brightlingsea, was held in the Temperance Hall. The children, teachers, and other friends assembled at the school-room at three o'clock in the afternoon, and started from thence at half-past three in procession through the village to the hall, headed by the Brightlingsea New Church Brass Band and other musical instruments. Grace being sung, tea, cake, and other suitable provisions were served to the children, by the friends of the church. The enjoy.

ments of the tea were heightened by the choir playing beautiful music. The choir also subsequently enjoyed themselves with an excellent tea. At half-past six o'clock the evening's entertainment commenced by the choir performing an appropriate vocal and instrumental piece, called " Bring children to Me;" after which beautiful pieces of poetry, dialogues, and conversational and dramatic pieces were given by the children and teachers. The meeting closed at ten o'clock, by singing the National Anthem, when all departed highly delighted with the evening's entertainment. All the friends, from the youngest child to the most aged member of the church, took an active part in making the meeting both interesting and useful. The new chapel is still in contemplation; and with continued exertion on the part of the members, will soon be begun and completed.

GLASGOW.-PRESENTATION TO THE REV. O. P. HILLER, ON HIS LEAVING THAT CITY.

A most interesting meeting, called at the request of the scholars and young men of the Society, was held in the Temple, on the 30th December last, to take leave of their esteemed pastor before leaving for a more extended field of usefulness.

The scholars had laid their young heads together to consider what suitable present they might make their minister when bidding him farewell; and they had come to the resolution of presenting him with a beautiful silver-mounted staff, ornamented with gold; because a staff is a symbol of power, and gold and silver signify good and truth. This present was designed as an emblem and remembrance-an emblem of the power which he had been to them in everything good and true, and a remembrance of the little flock that had made this presentation to their loved and faithful shepherd. This presentation was to form a principal part of the proceedings of the meeting.

Mr. Thos. Downes occupied the chair. Besides the scholars, a large number of the members were present. The meeting was first addressed by the Rev. A. Mc. Arthur, of Paisley, who, in a speech of considerable length, dwelt on the many excellent qualities of his esteemed friend, and spoke of the en

dearing ties that had knit them together while labouring in the same field of usefulness.

The chairman having intimated to the scholars that they would now have an opportunity of taking leave of their pastor, Duncan Mc. Call, whom they had deputed to speak and act for them on the occasion, came forward and addressed the meeting. He said they were met together to pay a tribute of affection and gratitude they owed to one who, by the blessing of Providence, had instilled into their minds the golden precepts of the Divine Word. Their minister had taken a deep interest in their welfare, and had done much for their improvement. His method of imparting instruction was such that it could not fail to interest the youngest among them. He clothed his ideas in language so simple, that dark and difficult subjects became clear and easy. He led them up from the natural to the spiritual world, and placed the scenes of heaven before their minds in forms of such attractive beauty as affected the heart with love, while it brightened the mind with the clear light of truth. The result of such a method was apparent. The seed sown had, and would, bring forth fruit, to reward the husbandman for his labour of love. speaker said in conclusion-" Rev. Sir, I have the honour of presenting you, in the name of the scholars of the Sabbathschool, with this staff, as a token of our affectionate esteem."

The young

Mr. Hiller then made a very touching and appropriate reply, and the proceed. ings terminated.

THE LATE PRINCE CONSORT. Copy of Address of Condolence forwarded to her Majesty the Queen, on the 20th January, 1862 :

"The members of the council of the New Church College, Devonshire-street, Islington, beg humby to approach your Majesty, for the purpose of expressing their sympathy for your Majesty's sufferings in the bereavement you have experienced. In your Majesty's affliction, we have been afflicted; in your loss, we in common with all your Majesty's subjects, have suffered a loss ourselves. But our loss is gain to him who was loved by you, our Queen; it is gain to him who had by his noble example, your nation's love. Whilst we are mourning, he and

won,