M.P. for Newcastle-under-Lyne. The chairman expressed the pleasure he had in being present. Alluding to the meeting recently held in the Wesleyan chapel, and of which he also was chairman, he doubted not but the present would be equally good; and proceeded, in a speech of great effect and power, to dwell upon the great missionary undertaking. The Rev. S. Walker read the report. The Rev. John Mills-son-in-law of the Rev. T. Allin, and with whom our venerable father in Israel is now residing-next addressed the meeting. The chairman then called upon the Rev. H. Downes, observing he had given them one of the best speeches at the Wesleyan missionary meeting he had ever heard. The Rev. Mr. Friend (Wesleyan) followed in the character of "deputation," and delivered a most telling address. Collections in advance of last year. The chairman kindly promised to preside next year, and gave to the ministers of each denomination present an order for coals for twenty poor members of each of their churches and congregations. We wish that a larger number of truly Christian men, such as the hon. member for Newcastle-underLyne, were found amongst our representatives in the House of Commons.

-

Lightwood. Associated with this place must ever stand the name of the venerated and now sainted Wm. Bailey. Since his death, the chapel and school premises have become somewhat dilapidated. About twelve months ago, the young men connected with the church resolved to undertake the cost of thorough repairs, painting, &c. The work needed was most efficiently done, at a cost of nearly £100. At the reopening service last spring, our esteemed friend, Mr. Councillor Pilling, of Bolton, took part; and, in addition to paying his own travelling expenses, promised that if the balance remaining could be paid off, he would come again in the course of the year and give a donation of £5. At that time, £70 was raised from all sources. On November 12th, two sermons were preached by the Rev. C. D. Ward, and a tea-meeting held the following day, and the sum of £25 realized. Mr. Pilling was unable to be present; but sent his promised donation. We cannot but admire such instances of true Connexional sympathy, and feel grateful to those who manifest the same. And to our young men at Lightwood all praise for having tho

roughly repaired God's house, and made it one of the most comfortable and beautiful of village chapels. And now our prayer is that in every place we may realize great spiritual pros perity. "O Lord, revive thy work." But a few weeks ago, heavy financial burdens were pressing upon us in the varied places; so much difficulty was experienced, that we saw no probability of keeping two married preachers. The societies are now adopting a weekly mode of giving, and with such successful results, that we shall discuss at our January quarterly meeting the desirability of asking from the next Conference an additional single preacher to be stationed at Cheadle, our friends there being exceedingly anxious for the same.-Communicated.

"OLD SCHOLARS'" TEAMEETING.

FENTON, LONGTON CIRCUIT. WHAT has become of the large multitude of scholars who have left our Sunday-schools? This is a question which again and again presents itself to the minds of earnest and devoted Sunday-school teachers; but, alas! how frequently has it to be dismissed without receiving any approach to a satis factory reply; and how practically to deal with the subject appears, on the surface, to be quite a mystery. We know that a large number of those who have left are dead, and that many others have removed from the various towns and localities in which they were taught; but how few, comparatively, are to be found still in connection with our schools and churches! What has become of the vast number which cannot thus be accounted for? This is a subject which is of the utmost interest and importance in connection with our Sabbath-school system. And because so few are still to be found in connection with our churches, some are ready to condemn the whole system as being inefficient, and not having accomplished its object. A candid examination of the subject, however, shows this accusation to be altogether untenable. One of the best arguments to be used against it is to be found, we think, in connection with the holding of "Old Scholars' " meetings. These prove most clearly that although so many of our scholars have left us personally, yet that, in the majority of cases, they are still with us in affection; the old influences and

associations of the

Sabbath-school teacher still linger irresistibly around them, and it requires only the opportunity to awaken and rekindle the hallowed influences of their former connection with the loved Sabbath-school.

The first "Old Scholars' " meeting in connection with our Sunday-school at Fenton was held on Christmas-day last. Personal visits had previously been made by the present teachers, and invitations given to all the "old scholars" who could be found at present in the town to come and take tea with us on that day. This resulted in the gathering together of about 350 of those who were formerly scholars or teachers with us, but who, with very few exceptions, are seldom, if ever, to be found at a place of worship. The present teachers were, of course, present at the meeting, and also a portion of the senior scholars, the party numbering altogether upwards of 450.

After the tea, a meeting was held in the chapel, our esteemed superintendent minister, the Rev. H. Downes, Occupying the chair. The chapel was decorated with mottoes, &c. Very conspicuous was a large one placed over the platform, the letters formed of leaves, and bearing the appropriate inscription, "Old Scholars and Teachers, re Welcome You."

The chairman conducted the meeting in a most admirable manner. He commenced by saying that the secretary, who, he believed, was quite an authority with respect to this meeting, the mainspring of the watch, had given him a sort of text, which he would read. It was as follows:-"The object of this meeting is to revive old associations between old teachers and scholars and the present teachers, with a view to mutual benefit. To this end, the meeting is to be a free and easy experience meeting, any one being at liberty to speak of the benefit they may have received from their connection with the school, and what occasioned their departure from it; or, if still connected, the chief cause of being retained, with the advantages or disadvantages of each course or position." This being the first meeting of the kind in the town, it was necessary to be very explicit as to its character and objects. This the chairman showed in a very affectionate manner, and the meeting was well sustained throughout. First one, and then another of the old scholars or teachers gladly embraced

the opportunity to speak of their connection with this Sunday-school. He then proceeded to speak from the topics, "What you were, what you are, and what you will be." He said that some could, perhaps, look back fifty years, others forty, thirty, twenty, or ten, at which time they were scholars in the school, learning the truths of God's Word. Those were happy days, but how is it now? Why have not all present chosen the good part, and become members of the church? These things were impressed on their minds when they were scholars, but are they thought of now? What are you going to become in the future? Whatever you have been in the past, you may now become the subjects of saving grace, may live to glorify God instead of serving the devil. He concluded by earnestly exhorting all present at once to enlist under the banner of the Cross.

Mrs. Gerrard said that she well remembered the time-now fifty years since-when she was first brought to this Sunday-school. Seven years afterwards she gave her heart to God, and since then her husband had done the same. She felt conscious that Christ was still dwelling in her heart, and prayed that she might ever be kept under the shadow of his wing. She could not sufficiently express her gratitude for her connection with this Sunday-school.

Mr. Charles Bagnall, a present teacher of fifty years' standing, said it was never better with him than at the present time; he was almost overjoyed at being present at this meeting. God had very richly blessed him in his Sabbath-school labours, and he hoped to die at Mount Tabor. He reminded all present that it was never too late to mend," and that those who had not yet embraced religion might still do so.

Mr. Myatt, who has also been connected with the school for a long period of time, said that it was a mercy that so many of the old scholars were permitted to be present. When they looked back upon the past they could see that they had received good; and, doubtless, many regret that they have not improved their privileges. He exhorted all at once to forsake their evil practices, and learn to fear God.

The Rev. M. Cotton, our Fenton minister, said he was glad to see those present who were immediately connected with us, and also those old friends, and hoped that they would

He wished

become old-new friends. all present, in the best sense of the word, a merry Christmas and a happy new year. He referred to the inadequate school and chapel accommodation, saying that the secretary, by his reference to the subject, had struck a flint in his breast, and he supposed the fire must come. Although this was not a meeting at which it was very appropriate to take up such a matter, yet he could not help referring to it; the secretary's statement so plainly showed the want of greater accommodation, and he heartily hoped that this would soon be obtained.

Mr. Hughes, a present teacher, very earnestly exhorted all who had hitherto been living without religion to turn over a new leaf, showing in a very forcible manner that "godliness is profitable unto all things, having the promise of the life that now is, and of that which is to come," and urging that there never would be a more convenient time for embracing religion than the present, the future being altogether uncertain, and that with some it might be now, or never.

Mr. Paul Philips said he thought that he had as great a right as any one in the chapel to speak, he had received so much good from this Sunday-school. The first Bible he ever saw was here; the first ideas he ever had of future happiness were obtained here; and he never could sufficiently thank God for his connection with Mount Tabor Sabbath-school.

Mr. C. Brown invited some of the old scholars or teachers to come back again to the school and assist in teaching others, there being plenty of need for their assistance.

The

The secretary, Mr. J. I. Myatt, in the early part of the meeting, gave an account of the present state of the school-its numbers and attendance, &c. There are at present 61 teachers in the school, and 505 scholars. average attendance is, morning, 270; afternoon, 310. He stated that from 2,000 to 3,000 scholars had passed through the school within the last twenty years, and earnestly asked, what has become of them? Some are dead, others are living in America, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and various parts of England, but a large number are still living in the town and immediate neighbourhood. He also read a communication from an old scholar at present residing in New Zealand, who very

feelingly expressed his gratitude for the good he had received from his connection with this Sunday-school.

The meeting was interspersed with several appropriate recitations by the Sunday-scholars, four of whom, also, sang very sweetly a Christmas carol. The chapel organist and choir also ministered very much to the enjoyment of the evening by giving some Christmas music and singing. Indeed, all who had to do with the meeting seemed to vie with each other in giving a hearty welcome to the teacher and the taught of former days.

This never-to-be-forgotten meeting was brought to a close about ten o'clock, having previously decided on the motion of the secretary, seconded by an old scholar, "That a similar meeting should be held on next Christmas Day." The old scholar who seconded this motion had not been to the school for twentyeight years past, although living in the immediate neighbourhood.

The secretary wishes it to be stated that he will be glad to give any information he is able to other schools who are desirous to hold similar meetings respecting the mode which has been adopted in the holding of this. They are meetings calculated to produce much good, and should be held in connection with every school. Our chapel, on the Sunday evening following the meeting, was crowded with people, many of the old scholars being present, some of whom have already signified their intention of worshipping with us, and have taken sittings.

SHREWSBURY.

MISSION ANNIVERSARY.

ON Sunday, November 12th, 1865, the Annual Missionary Sermons were preached at Shrewsbury by the Rev. J. K. Jackson, of Pensnett; at Bicton by the Rev. J. Harker; and at Crosshouses by the Rev. J. K. Jackson and Mr. J. Williams.

Interesting missionary meetings were held during the week at Crosshouses, addressed by the Revs. J. K. Jackson, J. Harkes, and Messrs. Wilks, Casewell, Jeke, Lewis, and another friend.

Collections are in advance of last year. The missionary meeting at Crosshouses was very interesting, and, in a pecuniary sense, profitable. Fifteen apples-representations of Mr.

Casewell's missionary apple-tree-were sold by Mr. C. Wilks, and realized the noble sum of 34s.

It is intended to have a missionary tea-meeting, before Conference, at Shrewsbury, in lieu of the Annual Missionary Meeting, which has not been well attended for years. J. H.

[This was sent in time for our last number, but was accidentally omitted.]

FOUNDATION-STONE

OF A NEW CHAPEL IN BOSTON STREET, MANCHESTER.

SOUTH CIRCUIT.

THE friends of the Connexion (especially those who are acquainted with the history of the Manchester South Circuit) will be pleased to learn that, by the good providence of God, we are now permitted again to raise our 66 EBENEZER," ," and in the spirit of Samuel "Hitherto hath the Lord say, helped us.'

As is generally known, the head of the circuit for many years was Ebenezer Chapel, situated in Peter Street. Surrounded chiefly by buildings devoted to commercial purposes or public amusements, it was found in lapse of time to be unsuitable as a place of worship, and as friends one by one removed into more salubrious localities, the congregation gradually fell away, until only a "very small remnant" was left as the representative of a once promising interest; and on the appointment of the Revs. John Taylor and W. J. Townsend as ministers of the circuit, it was reluctantly decided to close the chapel and offer it for sale, to establish or rather foster another interest then recently established in Chapman Street, Hulme, and henceforth constitute it the head of the circuit. The sum of £500 was borrowed by the Peter Street trustees, for the erection of commodious schools in a populous neighbourhood at a cost of £1,150. Towards this amount nearly £200 was raised by the friends on the spot, and in the month of March, 1863, they found themselves occupying a building much more adapted to the purpose for which it was used, than the small one in which they had previously worshipped, but with a debt of about £450, and an annual charge of £36 for ground-rent. In front of the new schools, however, they had sufficient land for the erection of a chapel-an event looked forward to

with some anxiety, as to take place when the sale of Peter Street Chapel could be effected.

The American War was now raging, and exerting its baneful influence on Lancashire industry, and the sufferings of the poor, which developed the improved moral character of factory operatives, and evoked such a noble generosity from all classes of our countrymen in every part of the United Kingdom and its dependencies were accompanied by failures of "great houses," so that confidence was shaken in commercial circles, and much caution was essential to the transaction of business. The prosperity of South Lancashire had received a check, from which it was thought it would take years to recover, and the sale of the chapel was in consequence delayed, except, indeed, at a ruinous price. The trustees preferred to wait, and the policy was justified by the result, for about £1,000 more was realized than the most sanguine anticipated. Prior to the Conference of 1865, and while yet the Rev. John Taylor was superintendent of the circuit, the bargain had been already closed, and the time for the payment of the amount (£5,500) was fixed, and in due time this sum, less £2,000, which had to be paid in discharge of the obligations of the trustees on account of the estate, was deposited in the bank. Let us here render a tribute to the anxiety, activity, and energy of Mr. Taylor, during his three years' ministry. No man ever worked harder, and no minister ever required the graces of patience and prudence more than he did. The circuit had to pass through a terrible ordeal, but it came out of it uninjured, and in a better state than when it entered. Nor are we disposed to forget the Rev. W. J. Townsend, who contributed his quota to the support of the various movements initiated.

The appointment of the Rev. T. W. Ridley to the superintendency at the commencement of thisConnexional year, was the occasion of the inauguration of a policy sound in its character, and satisfactory to all parties interested. By his tact, energy, and steady application to business,and his uniform kindness, he secured to himself the esteem and affection of the friends in the various parts of the circuit. Dissension, which had just begun to develop itself, was nipped in the bud, and harmony was perpetuated. The interests of all

were considered, and the appropriation to the various bodies of trustees in the circuit was effected in such a manner as to create a feeling of general satisfaction, both to the trustees who had the disposal of the money, and those to whom it was dispensed.

Own

The sum of £2,300 was voted for the erection of a new chapel on the site already secured, and before named, in Boston Street. No time was lost in the preparation of plans. Messrs. Shaw and Webster, architects, Manchester (the latter being one of our members and the society steward), were engaged to prepare plans for a new chapel, the cost not to exceed £2,500, including everything except professional fees, and we may remark as an instance highly creditable to the honour and ability of these gentlemen, that exclusive of the heating apparatus, which will cost £50, a tender to complete the building was accepted, and a contract duly signed for £2,430. A remarkable instance may be here mentioned. Three tenders were invited, and from the lowest to the highest there was a difference of only twenty shillings.

Saturday, the 25th of November, 1865, was the time fixed for the interesting ceremony of laying the foundation stone, and Theophilus Jackson, Esq., an old friend of the Connexion, was selected for the office. The season of the year served to awaken the fears of the people as to the weather, and much anxiety was experienced lest its inclemency should interfere with the proceedings. The time at length arrived, and although the atmosphere was murky and the sky overcast with clouds, yet there seemed to be no immediate prospect of rain, and confidence was inspired. The scene that presented itself was pleasing. Amongst those who gathered around the stone we noticed-Revs. W. Baggaly (President of the Conference), R. Henshaw (Ex-president), Dr. Cooke, of London; L. Stoney, of Staley bridge; A. M'Curdy, of Bolton; J. Medicraft, of Ashton; J. F. Goodall, of Manchester; A. Hall (Independent), T. W. Ridley and A. R. Pearson, ministers of the circuit; and of the laity, with Mr. Jackson, we observed John Turner, Esq., T. E. Wheatley, Esq., John Ousey, Esq. of Audenshaw; and many other of our Manchester friends.

After a hymn, announced by the Rev. R. Henshaw, had been sung, and

a most appropriate prayer had been offered by the Rev. A. M'Curdy, the Rev. L. Stoney read suitable portions of Scripture. Mr. Ridley then called upon Mr. Exelby, the circuit steward, and one of the trustees of the new chapel, who produced a bottle containing some current coins of the realm, copies of the Manchester Examiner and Times, Manchester Guardian for the day, the METHODIST NEW CONNEXION MAGAZINE for the month of November, the Minutes of last Conference, a statement as to the denomination for the use of which the chapel was intended, the origin and history of the society by whom it was built, the names of the trustees, the ministers of the circuit for the time being, the architects, and other particulars of interest. Having read a list of the contents of the bottle, it was then handed to Mr. Prosser, Local Preachers' Secretary, and by him duly placed in the cavity under the stone. Dr. Cooke, of London, came forward amid the acclamations of those present, and with some remarks touching the long connection of Mr. Jackson with our community, presented him with a silver trowel as a memento of the occasion. Mr. Webster handed him a mallet and square. The stone (which weighed three tons, and forms the pediment of one of the front pillars of the portico), was then lowered and adjusted to its proper place; and Mr. Jackson having performed the ceremony, pronounced the stone laid in the name of the Sacred Trinity. He proceeded to address the friends on the auspicious circumstances under which they were met, and affirmed his increased attachment to the Connexion. He lamented having to reside in a place where there was no chapel of the people of his choice, but assured them that they would always have his sympathy and support. The gathering was subsequently addressed by the Rev. W. Baggaly, President of the Conference. He said such had been the rapid strides made in this metropolis of the Cotton District, that commerce had claimed the very heart of the city, and compelled the population to retire to the suburbs. The same progress had caused the cottage to give place to the mansion, and had made the warehouse palatial, and it should have a corresponding influence on the architecture of their sanctuaries. Referring to the constitutionof the Connexion, its quarterly and district meetings, and