ment would have on the morals of the inhabitants, strenuously and successfully exerted himself to expel them; the day before their departure, being Sunday, the principal, or manager of the party, was induced to attend the evening lecture. His attention was arrested; and, on retiring from the church, he exclaimed, "Never before in my life have I witnessed any thing like this! why he talks to the people like an affectionate father to his children! Is it possible that such a man as this can have it in his heart to hurt a poor player!” Mr. Glasscott, though, strictly speaking, Calvinistic in his views of Scriptural doctrine, was remarkable for his liberality and candour towards those who differed from him. It is known to persons acquainted with the circumstances which called forth from the sainted vicar of Madeley the "Checks to Antinomianism," that Mr. Glasscott was intimately connected with the conflicting parties, but, though altogether coinciding with the opponents of Mr. Fletcher in that controversy, yet he always entertained a very high sense of the piety and devotedness of that good man; and, occasionally, even during the unhappy ebullition of party feeling which ensued, he preached in Madeley Church. Some time since, when informed of some harsh expressions uttered by an individual respecting Mr. Fletcher, he exclaimed with great emotion, "Dear me! he did not know the man, Mr. Fletcher! I revere his memory, he was one of the most holy, self-denying men that ever I had the honour of being ac quainted with! though, for wise reasons, no doubt, his judgment was obscured on some points of doctrine, which appear to me of great importance." SCOTLAND. UPPER BANCHORY, ABERDEENSHIRE, AND THE ORDINATION OF THE REV. MR. LOWE. The Upper Banchory cause is well deserving the notice of those benevolent friends, who rejoice in seeing the gospel planted in neglected districts. The newly ordained minister, the Rev. Mr. Lowe, is well fitted for the sphere into which divine Providence has introduced him; and from all we have heard of the impression attending his ministry, we e disposed to regard his settlement in that part of the country, as a distinguished blessing to the surrounding population. We have just perused the ordination service of this young minister, and we consider it to be one of the best we ever read. The discourses are by the Rev. Messrs. Thompson, Spence, and Penman, of Aberdeen, and the Rev. John Hill, of Huntley; and Mr. Lowe's replies to the questions which were proposed by the Rev. Mr. Smith, of Black Hills, are much to the purpose, and bespeak sound sense and genuine piety. We are aware that ordination services do not, as a general thing, sell beyond the immediate scene in which they take place; but we would gladly hope that an exception may be made in the present instance; not only because of the real merits of the discourses themselves, but because they have been published for the express purpose of raising a fund to aid in liquidating a debt on the chapel, in which Mr. Lowe officiates. It will be an easy thing, therefore, for the zealous friends of the gospel to give their aid in the way proposed, to this infant cause. publisher will supply as many copies of the work as may be required, and the prompt sale of the whole edition may render essential service to a young and rising church. FOREIGN. PARIS. Our THE VALLIES OF PIEDMONT, To the Editor. Paris, April, 1832. MY DEAR SIR,-It may be necessary to correct an error of date into which one of your correspondents has fallen, whose letter appeared in the Evangelical Magazine of March. "I arrived," says your correspondent, at La Tour in April, three months after the scenes occurred which are the subject of Mr. W.'s communication. The party feeling had then subsided, &c." This visit then occurred in April, 1831; the scenes which are the subject of my communication occurred in December 1831; and of course nine months after that visit. My letter to you was dated January 14, 1832, and the facts it communicated, were stated to have occurred as lately as the 19th of Dec., 1831. Yours, ever, &c. M. W. AN APPEAL ON BEHALF OF THE CONGREGATIONAL OR INDEPENDENT DENOMINATION IN MONTREAL, CANADA. The importance of Canada, as a valuable and extensive part of the British Empire, is now distinctly recognized and appreciated. Its present population is above a million of souls, the larger part of whom are emigrants from Great Britain and Ireland, with their immediate descendants. Besides the natural increase, which, as in all newly settled countries, is very great, it receives annually a large addition from Europe and the United States. The number last year from the former alone was between fifty and sixty thou sand, and nearly double this number is expected to arrive during the ensuing season. The city of Montreal, in Lower Canada, the emporium of both Provinces, contains already 30,000 inhabitants, one-third of whom are Protestants, the remainder are Catholics. The various denominations of Protestants, viz. Episcopalians, Presbyterians, Baptists, and Methodists, have their respective churches and chapels; while the Independent denomination alone has no appropriate place of worship, nor, until now, could its members enjoy, in accordance with their views, the ministry and ordinances of the gospel. In the latter end of September last, the Rev. J. Smith, A. M. and the Rev. R. Miles, formerly of the London Missionary Society, arrived together at Montreal-having devoted themselves to the service of the Redeemer, in Canada. The former is engaged as tutor of the Literary and Theological Seminary in connexion with the "Canada education and Home Missionary Society." -Mr. Miles was urgently solicited by a respected individual (formerly a member of the Rev. G. Ewing's church, Glasgow), who warmly espoused the cause, and a few other friends of the Independent denomination, to commence his ministry in Montreal, with a view of endeavouring, under the divine blessing, to establish a congregational church in this city; and so to be more efficiently instrumental in promoting the extension of the Redeemer's kingdom through both provinces of Canada. For this purpose, a school-room was immediately hired, and public services commenced on the following Sabbath, when the attendance was highly encouraging. The accommodation, however, thus provided was soon found to be inadequate to the increasing attendance; when, through a zealous friend of the cause, larger and more commodious place was obtained. This has been fitted up for the use of the congregation, which now usually amounts, on the Lord's-day, to about 300 persons. A Sunday-school is also begun, which continues to increase, and presents pleasing prospects of great usefulness. considerable rent is, however, paid for the place thus occupied-its tenure is precarious ; a A and although its local situation is not favourable, there is every prospect that it will soon be too small to accommodate the attendants. To give, therefore, stability and permanence to the work, which has thus been so auspiciously commenced, the friends of the cause are exceedingly desirous of erecting, without delay, a suitable place of worship, with accommodation for the Sunday-school, in an eligible situation; and this they desire, not merely on their own account, and the rapidly increasing Protestant population of this city, for whom an adequate provision does not at present exist, but that, when thus settled, they may be better able afterwards to assist in forwarding the work of God throughout this interesting and extensive country, where there are thousands of their "kinsmen according to the flesh," destitute of the gospel of salvation. This important object they are, however, unable to accomplish without assistance. The sum of £500 (a part of which is already subscribed) they hope, by great exertion, to raise in Montreal; but this amount will be inadequate to effect their purpose, as the larger portion, if not the whole, of this sum must be necessarily expended in the purchase of a suitable plot of ground. To whom then can they look for the necessary aid to accomplish this good work, but to the friends of the Redeemer in Great Britain? and surely it is not too much for them to expect a small portion of that Christian liberality which flows so freely into other channels. And upon the benevolent assistance of the churches and congregations of the Independent denomination, the infant cause at Montreal has special claims, as there exists, at present, throughout this extensive country, but one congregational church. We beg, therefore, most earnestly to recommend this important object to the liberality of all who love the prosperity of Zion, and who desire the spiritual welfare of their countrymen and brethren in Canada. JOSEPH GIBB, Stanstead, (formerly Banff, Scotland.) JOHN SMITH, A.M., Montreal. RICHARD MILES, Montreal. Montreal, January 20, 1832. *Contributions towards this object will be thankfully received by Mr. James Connell and Mr. Joseph Savage, of Montreal; by William Alers Hankey, Esq., 7, Fenchurch-street, London; and by William M'Gavin, Esq., Glasgow; and Mr. R. Davis, Paternoster-row, London. We, whose Names are hereunto subscribed, being satisfied of the truth of the representation contained in the case of Montreal, in Canada, and of the importance of it; and entertaining a decided opinion of the excellent character, suitable qualifications, and missionary spirit, of our valued friend, the Rev. Richard Miles, beg leave most respectfully to recommend the case of Montreal to the patronage of the religious public. R. ALLIOTT, Nottingham, RICHARD ALLIOTT, Jun. ditto. H. Townley, Robert Winter, D.D. John Morison, D.D. COMMUNICATIONS ON THE STATE OF RELIGION ON THE CONTINENT. [Continued from former Numbers.] The Bergedorf Messenger [Der Bergedor fer-Bote] is a weekly paper, consisting of four quarto pages, edited at Hamburgh, by Mr. Leonhardt. It comprises Theological Disquisitions, Practical Advices, and Religious Intelligence; and it is conducted with marked ability, with candour towards opponents, and with an enlightened attachment to evangelical truth and piety. Amidst the dreadful desolation of the German Protestant churches, from their helpless subjection to secular dominion, and from the flood of false Rationalism which has spread among them, it is a matter of gratitude and encouragement to find, in many places and in various laudable ways, a vigorous stand made on behalf of truth and holiness. It is not among the least important of these instruments of good, that several periodical works exist, conducted on evangelical principles, and with learning, wisdom, and ability. Besides the Bergedorf Messenger, there are the Repository of Clerical Correspondence, by the Rev. C. P. II. Brandt, Pastor of Windsbach, in Bavaria, begun about seven years ago, and published weekly; the Mission Paper of Calw, in Würtemberg, once a fortnight; the Lutheran Church Journal, by Dr. Hengstenberg, begun July 4, 1827, and published twice a week, at Berlin; the Literary Indicator of Christianity and Theological Science, by Dr. Tholuck, of Halle, every five days, begun with the present year; and there are others, which we know only by seeing them occasionally cited or referred to. At the same time, the periodical literature on the side of the Neologists, Antisupranaturalists, or Rationalists, is extensive and powerful. We propose occasionally, as opportunity may be afforded, to translate brief articles from all the works above mentioned. Of the Bergedorf is a village or small town, near Ham. burgh. VOL. X. following, the first is from the Bergedorf Messenger for January 7, and the second, from that for the 21st, 1832. "It is perfectly evident that the Pielist Society of Jesus has now grown up to a magnitude scarcely inferior to that of a complete Jesuistical Order: for the superior Conductor or Director gives his friendly embrace to the Village-Pastor; aud the Bishop or Professor does the same to the tailor, the wheelwright, or the shoemaker, who prays at a conventicle. One helps the other, and they conceal or correct each other's faults." Now, good reader, thou hast read this paragraph-how does it seem to thee? Thou exclaimest, What! are these signs of Jesuitism? Is it made a ground of reproachis it objected to, as an unchristian thing, that brotherly love is exercised without regard to rank or station, that persons help one another, and cover each other's faults? Yes, yes, so it is. This passage is the concluding sentence, and presents the total result of a book written throughout in a correspondent strain, and having the title The Pietists in their lowest Debasement; by Dr. Weidemann, Halle, 1831. It is often said against the Pietists that they trample upon all who differ from them. How this author can make the objection which he does, we cannot understand. His whole book is a trampling down, [a contemptuous and injurious tissue of misrepresentations.] It contains things to make one shudder. For example; the author upbraids the Fietists with boasting 'Ours is the victory; On Golgotha 'twas won.' and he adds the observation- So, then, it was at the place of execution! What depth of impiety! It may well make us shudder. This book, too, is full of boasting." "Professor E. F. Höpfner, of Leipzig, has published a Dissertation to show that the opposition to the gospel in our days is far greater than it was at the time of the Reformation. "He supports this thesis on the following grounds: "1. That Luther found in the minds of men generally a belief in the Scriptures as the word of God; a foundation on which he could stand and enjoy firm footing; but this is now wanting. "2. That Luther had, indeed, many and gross errors to contend against; but not a so called Polite Christianity, [or Religion.] "3. That Luther had, indeed, many and mighty enemies to encounter; but not the poison of circulating libraries, newspapers, and periodical writings of all sorts. "Is the Professor mistaken? Read his book, and weigh his arguments-intelligent, perspicuous, attractive, brief, and conclusive." J. P, S. OBITUARY. ROBERT FLETCHER, ESQ., OF BRIGHTON. With a numerous circle of bereaved friends we unite to deplore the premature removal, by death, of this amiable and pious surgeon. His health had so far declined, during the last two years, that he deemed it proper, with the advice of medical friends, to try the effect of a voyage to Madeira. Accompanied by an affectionate wife, he left his native shores in the fall of last year, and reached the place of his destination in safety. The voyage seemed, in some measure, to recruit his spirits; and hopes were at first entertained that disease would yield to the influence of a mild and salubrious climate. But, alas! these hopes were soon blasted, and symptoms of dissolution speedily ensued. His brother-in-law, the Rev. J. N. Goulty, of Brighton, thus writes to us in reference to the event of his death :-"The scene at Madeira is closed! Our dear brother, Robert Fletcher, is no more! He died on the 27th of Feb., very, very happy. It was a peaceful end-an abundant entrance.' Dear Mrs. Fletcher immediately set off for England, and is safely arrived here, quite well, and wonderfully supported." Mr. Fletcher was an individual who commanded the respect and affection of all who knew him. We knew him well, and loved him much; and we commend his widow and fatherless children to the care and blessing of that God in whom he trusted from his youth up. REV. A. STEILL. Died, at Wigan, on the 23rd instant, aged 64, and in the 40th of his ministry, the Rev. A. Steill. He was one of the late Dr. Bogue's earliest students. He was first settled at Winchester for six years; he then removed to Kidderminster, where he continued 11 years; after which he laboured at Wigan for upwards of 22 years. He had been a supporter of the London Missionary Society from its commencement. In fact, the Bible, Tract, and similar Institutions, had his cordial support. As a minister, he was a firm and unwavering champion of the truth, and fully declared the great doctrines of the gospel, by which he was supported during a protracted illness; and, in the near prospect of death, he was enabled to say, "I know in whom I have believed, and am persuaded that he is able to keep what I have committed to him unto that day." He possessed in private life many amiable qualities; he was endowed with a noble, generous spirit, far removed from any thing of a compromising or sordid servility. His life was useful, and his end was peace. REV. C. DANIELL. In March, 1832, died Rev. C. Daniell, aged fifty-nine, who had been for twenty-six years the faithful, laborious, and useful pastor of the congregational church at Kingswood, near Wotton-under-Edge. He received some valuable instruction, when a young man, from a servant of Christ, whose name, in Gloucestershire, is a synonyme for Christian meekness and benevolence-the Rev. Cornelius Winter, of Painswick. It is enough to say of Mr. Daniell, that his life was not unworthy of the tutorage he had enjoyed. His death was happy. On the last night, his wife said to him, My dear, you will soon be at home." "Yes," said he, "I am beyond hope; I have assurance as to where am going. Just before he breathed his last, he repeated these words, "When from the dust of death I rise To claim my mansion in the skies, E'en then shall this be all my plea Jesus hath lived, hath died for me." Mr. Lewis, of Wotton-under-Edge, an old friend and neighbour, preached his funeral sermon to a great congregation. REV. W. K. CROCKFORD. Died, Dec. 5th, 1831, at Warrington, Lancashire, 'the Rev. W. H. Crockford, for the last seven years pastor of the Independent church and congregation assembled in Salem chapel, in the above town; but formerly of the West Riding of Yorkshire. He died in the 54th year of his age, thirty-four of which he had spent in the ministry. He was a man of strictly Independent principles, a sound Calvinist in doctrine, zealous and faithful in his preaching, and confident in His last illness, the prospect of death. which he dated from March previous, came on through a severe cold, caught by village preaching. The pain and langour of asthma and consumption he bore with Christian fortitude; presenting to surviving friends an example of patience and humble dependance upon a Saviour, who was able to keep all that was committed to him. He has left a widow and five children to lament his loss. REV GEORGE CLARKE, OF PONDER'S END. It is with deep sorrow that we intimate to our numerous readers the unexpected death of this valuable and devoted minister of Jesus Christ. The event took place in the end of March, after a short illness, borne with exemplary Christian fortitude and resig nation. He was a faithful minister, a kind parent, and an attached friend. MR. JOHN BASNETT. On the 22nd Nov., 1831, died, at his house in Great Smith-street, Westminster, Mr. John Basnett. He was descended of an ancient and respectable family, of Oswestry, in Shropshire, where he was born on the 23rd January, 1764 (O. S.) Mr. Basnett had resided, during the greater part of his long life, in Westminster; and was converted, above half a century since, under the preaching of the Rev. Torial Joss, at the New Way chapel; at which place he became a constant attendant. He was honoured with the confidence of the Rev. Dr. Peckwell, the then stated minister, whose remains he attended to the family vault, in the Cathedral church-yard at Chichester. The circum. stances which occasioned the premature death of this eminent clergyman were published by Mr. Basnett, in a Narrative, which went through two editions, the profits of which were given by him to a charity, entitled, The Sick Man's Friend, instituted by Dr. Peckwell. Of this charity Mr. Basnett was one of the first, and, as regarded the Westminster branch, the last remaining visiter. When the congregation attending the New Way removed to Queen-square, Mr. Basnett went with them, at that time under the pastoral care of the late Dr. Percy. Here he continued to attend, until June last, under the ministry of the Rev. Mr. Shepherd. It pleased Providence, at this time, to visit him with an attack of paralysis; but, during his long confinement, his confidence in his divine Master never forsook him. On the Sunday previous to his decease, he entreated his daughter to cast all her troubles upon God, for he would sustain them, adding, "He has sustained me; I have found Israel's God to "" be my God.' The same day, after some time spent in silent prayer, he repeated aloud, "Jesus, our great High priest, No sacrifice beside." No," said he, "I want no other." On the day preceding his death, he was visited by the Rev. Mr. Shepherd, and Mr. Percy, the son of his former minister; to both of whom he gave evident proof of his being made an inheritor of the Father's kingdom. The latter, on taking leave of him, said he would say to him, as Hopeful did to his brother Christian, "Be of good cheer, for I have found bottom;" to which the dying saint replied, "Aye, and sound bot tom. On the morning of his decease he fell into a sweet sleep, and so remained till about five minutes past five o'clock in the evening, when, without a sigh or struggle, the spirit quictly departed to him who gave it. His bereaved widow and family can bear witness to his Christian walk and conversation; he was never known to be betrayed even to an intemperate expression. During life he was honoured with the acquaintance of many eminent characters, particularly of Mr. Wilberforce. His manners were quiet and unassuming, and he always considered himself a debtor to sovereign grace for every mercy he experienced. His funeral sermon was preached at Queensquare chapel, on Sunday morning, Dec. 4th, by the Rev. Mr. Shepherd, from 1 Thess. v. 2, 3. REV. JOHN WILSON. Died, at his residence, in Nottingham, April 2nd, the Rev. John Wilson, in the 77th year of his age. He exercised his min istry as pastor, successively, of the Independent churches at Stafford, Market Drayton, in Shropshire, and Matlock Bath, Derbyshire. At the latter place he was the highly-respected and beloved minister twenty-three years; and relinquished the pastoral office, in consequence of growing infirmities, about a year and a half ago. REV. DAVID PARKER. We have, with deep regret, to announce the almost sudden death-at the comparatively early age of forty-five, of the Rev. David Parker, minister of the Independent church at Sidmouth. On Sunday, the 11th of March, he preached to his people in usual health and vigour. Early on Wednesday, the 14th, he was attacked by a complaint he had been occasionally subject to; from which, however, he was so far relieved by medical skill, as to give prospects of recovery, till within a few minutes of his decease, which took place on the following morning. Of Mr. Parker, it is not too much to say, that his intellectual endowments-his theological learning his sound and dispassionate judgment-his powers as a preacher-and the eminence of his piety, class him with those who may truly be denominated the "great men who have fallen in Israel." If, as such, he was not extensively known, it is to be attributed solely to the great modesty and humility of his character, which induced him, whenever practicable, like his great Master, to shun the multitude-and made him content to "dwell among his own people," by whom, as well as by all who had the happiness of intimacy with him, it is difficult to say whether he was more revered or beloved. |