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friends of the church and congregation. The meeting after, which was a full one, was presided over by Mr. W. Gould, the senior deacon, who gave a very interesting account of the rise and progress of the cause, bringing out of the treasury of his lengthy experience "things both old and new. He had been connected with it nearly 60 years. Preaching was commenced in a cottage, at which time there was not a dissenter (the members of the society of friends excepted) in the entire parish. They had to endure some petty persecution; but by the help of their Covenant God, in a short time they built their chapel, in which they had been favoured, for more than fifty years, to worship and adore Him. They had seen many changes, had lost many friends, and not a few from them had departed in the Lord, and were now perfectly happy in the rest of the blessed. There are only three of the members now living who were present at the opening of the chapel. They had had four pastors, all of whom had been honoured of God, and made a blessing to the people. They love the good old way, and are determined to stand fast and firm in the glorious Gospel of the blessed God. Many a feeling tribute of love was paid to departed worth by the minister as well as by others, as bygone times were referred to. He had buried nearly 40, some of whom had "finished their course with joy," and of whom it was pleasant even now to think.

Addresses were also given by Messrs. Kick, Westlake, Impey, Ward, and Gullop, each making instructive and happy reference to the jubilee of the Jewish dispensation; but inviting attention more particularly to the glorious Gospel jubilee, by which men of all nations and all ages (even as many as the Lord our God shall call) are to be restored to God, to liberty, to joy, and to life everlasting.

HERTFORD.-We had the pleasure of hearing Mr. Robert Bowles in Ebenezer chapel, Hertford, during the past month, and were glad to find that he is in peace with the Church over which he presides. The discourse from the words, "Sirs, we would see Jesus," displayed a well-stored mind of Scriptural knowledge, and an experimental acquaintance with the sorrows and difficulties that more or less mark the Christian pathway in this world, often making him desire to see Jesus by faith here, and thus increasing his longing anticipations to see Him in the bright and better world without a veil between. The people appear to appreciate the ministry, and the result is found in the Christian affection that exists between pastor and church. We were deeply pained to hear from Mr. Bowles that a very heavy domestic cloud has now for more than six months rested over his family circle. Mr. Bowles's eldest son has suddenly been lost. A quiet, intelligent, well-disposed youth, about 16 years of age, was in a situation in

London, in which position he was highly respected, not only by his employer but by every one in the establishment. He was, in the discharge of his duties, occasionally sent out on business. Some six months since he left the house of his employer upon some errand, and has not since been seen or heard of. Being a youth of quiet and domestic habits, it is the more mysterious. Home was his delight, and anything in the nature of a roving disposition was the very opposite of his character. Every effort, both by the parents and the master have been made to discover what has become of the lad, without the slightest clue being obtained. Deep is the sorrow of the family, and we share in that sorrow, and pray that yet this dark cloud may disperse, and all may be able to say

Behind a frowning Providence
He hides a smiling face.

Не

HOXTON-Zoar Baptist Chapel, Evelyn street, New North road, was opened on Lord's day, October 13th, when three sermons were preached by Mr. W. Haydon, future minister, and by Mr. Joseph Cheshire. On the following Monday evening, a public meeting was held. Mr. Cheshire invoked the divine blessing. Mr. Haydon, the Chairman, spoke of the way the Lord had led and instructed him since first opening his mouth in the Master's name. commenced preaching in the open air some six years ago; a people had been gathered, many of whom had attended, summer after summer. At length a school room was opened in Vincent street, Old street road, two years ago, and a Sunday evening and week day service carried on until the friends were compelled to leave, which led to the opening of the present comfortable place of worship. A plan of future proceedings was proposed and warmly approved by the friends; there will be no collections, but the cause will be supported by the envelope system. Brethren Field, Eaton, and Cheshire delivered addresses; brother Delamere prayed, and the Chairman pronounced the benediction.

NEWTON ABBOTT. - The annual harvest thanksgiving services were held in the Baptist chapel, Newton Abbott, on Tuesday, the 1st of October. Sermons were preached in the afternoon and evening by Mr. F. Collins, of Howe street, Plymouth. The Lord gave us fine weather, good congregations, and liberal collections. It was a matter of thanksgiving to the friend of the truth as it is in Christ, that the Lord has so graciously sustained our brother Pearce, notwithstanding the trying circumstances through which our brother has been called to pass. A new chapel has been built. Influences have been employed to weaken him, yet the old chapel is filled, all the seats are let, and the contributions are as large as before any division took place. The friends all appear willing to strengthen his hands, and encourage his

heart; the thanksgiving services were of the Lord blessed, to the joy of many hearts. May God still bless his servant and his

cause.

CHEERING NOTE TO OUR ESTEEMED BROTHER MITSON.-MY DEAR SIR, -Father wishes me to write to you, and express his thanks for your repeated thoughtfulness and kindness to him; I assure you he esteems it a great kindness. Many an hour he has spent over Mr. Wells's sermons, and he likes them much. The Gospel Guide speaks of Popery coming on England with gigantic strides. It is, indeed, dear sir, a melancholy fact, that the church clergymen here are but one step behind the Roman Catholic, as they are having crosses put up everywhere, and the Virgin Mary with the Babe of Bethlehem; and the clergyman at Shelfanger is now preaching for the confirmation that is shortly to take place. He said in his sermon, on Sunday week, the moment the bishop places his hand on the head of a person the sins fly out of them. We are thankful to say that we are going on very comfortably at our chapel now. Horne, the minister who has been with us for nearly nine years has left us, and is gone to a larger church at Norwich; but the Lord has been pleased to fill his place with one liked by the people, even better than he was, so that our congregation is increasing very much, while several have been added, and more are expected soon to do so. Hoping this may meet you and yours well as it leaves us. Father and mother send their Christian love to you. Please to remember me very kindly to Miss Mitson., Wishing you every blessing, believe me dear sir, most sincerely yours,

Mr.

BERTHA WEBSDALE.

Roydon, March 4th, 1867.

THE LATE MRS. TAYLOR.-The following remarks were found written by my beloved wife, Jane Taylor, some time previous to her decease: "Oh, how many times, ah, many a time, has my soul been blest, and my poor drooping spirit been refreshed at Zoar (Great Alie street). The first time I heard that servant of God, Mr. Taylor, of Manchester, never shall forget it. Oh, how he fed my soul during his stay in London that first visit (1843). I can truly say my soul mourned his absence. Mr. Taylor was a perfect stranger to me, so that I had no partiality to him as a man. And at Crosby road, under our pastor C. W. Banks, oh, how I have sat and feasted while he has been preaching. Sweet times, and much love to some of the people. And again, how many times has my soul and spirit been comforted in hearing Mr. John Wigmore. The precious things that I have heard from his lips will never be forgotten while I live; once most especially, from "Tell me, O thou whom my soul loveth;" and the sweet things he said I hope never to forget. Then, that's not only once but

many times. Many other ministers I have heard many times, very nicely. And since I have been at the Grove (Camberwell) I hear Mr. Tay very well. Sober, solid, spiritual discourses; nothing exciting, but solid heart-work; and I hope my poor heart and soul is right, for I know and feelThat all my trust On Christ I stay.""

Her last words to me, her now bereaved partner, were:-"I feel this mud wall cottage shake, and think it now must fall.

'Oh, may I live to see the place,
Where He unveils His lovely face;
Where all His beauties I behold,

And sing His name to harp of gold.""

In the article of death she said, "They are all ministering" and as her dear spirit was departing my dear son filled up the sentence, "Are they not all ministering spirits sent forth to minister to them who shall be heirs of salvation ?" JOHN TAYLOR. [This was a sober and solid sister in Jesus. And happy days were they to the Gospel at Crosby row to which she refers. They are fled for ever.]

STRIKING SENTENCE FOR MINISTERS.-A young brother, writing from a distant part of the country, and speaking of his numerous and varied labours, says, "But I shall go out no more; my health is bad; my constitution is weak; I have now a flock to feed; and require time for meditation and prayer; for I am assured of this that in the closet THE BATTLE IS LOST OR WON." "Praying the Lord may bless you, and sustain you, and help you through your numerous toils and difficulties. I know you have your share of these, and grant you many of his precious love visits, to cheer you, amidst perplexing, changing, turbulent affairs of life."

"A Man of Truth" says, Mr. John Foreman has been into Yorkshire, visiting Mr. Anderson, Mr. Crowther, and other good men in the north; and that he has been preaching "visitation sermons" in different places. This is like placing the seal of approbation upon all the changes and removals which have recently taken place; and it is thought that that great county of Yorkshire, which has been considered so destitute of Gospel truth, will experience a great revival. There is in that county plenty of room, plenty of people, plenty of property, and hundreds of thousands of hearts beating warm with zeal for the Gospel. We hope they will see better days.

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Death of Mr. George Abrahams,

OF REGENT

STREET

CHAPEL, CITY ROAD, LONDON.

As we were finishing up this number of our Magazine, we received the intelligence of the death of this deep-taught servant of the Lord. Mr. Abrahams was not a minister whose name was continually before the Christian public; he was not what is termed an anniversary preacher; or one who was often found away from his own flock. For more than thirty-five years he has been pastor over the church from whose midst he has just been removed by death. With that people the Lord very signally blessed his ministrations; the deepest affection existed between pastor and people; and up to the last, the church and congregation, both for unity and numbers, continued in full strength.

It will not be possible at this late period of the month, to do more than to record this heavy loss to the church. Next month we shall hope to furnish some fuller particulars.

away

On Wednesday, Nov. 20, 1867, Mr. George Abrahams, the pastor of the church meeting in Regent street chapel, City road, quietly passed from this world of sorrow and sin, to be " for ever with the Lord." For a long period, Mr. Abrahams had been suffering from a very serious affliction, and his medical advisers had decided that it would be necessary for him to undergo an operation. With this object in view, it was. thought advisable that Mr. Abrahams should for a time reside in the immediate neighbourhood of a very eminent medical gentleman, who took the deepest interest in Mr. Abrahams' case, so that the patient might have the advantage of three or four daily visits. This arrangement was complied with ; but before many days had elapsed, and previous to any operation taking place, Mr. Abrahams was attacked with inflammation of the lungs, which proved the means of relieving him from a body of affliction, and ushering his happy soul into the presence of Him for whom he had so many years laboured with much love and ability, to set Him before thousands who were wont to listen to his peculiar accents.

On Tuesday, the day previous to his death, he remarked to his devoted attendants that he knew he was dying; and very calmly he gave certain directions respecting some matters, and expressed a wish that Mr. Luckin and Mr. Robinson should officiate at his funeral. The day following, Wednesday, when he was evidently fast sinking, and when the power of speech had left him, Mr. Nunn said to him, "If you are happy in your mind, press my hand," and the dying saint, in answer to the request of his devoted brother, several times pressed his hand with a firm grasp.

Shortly after, the immortal soul was released, and only the mortal tabernacle was left amongst us.

Mr. Abrahams, although a great sufferer, had not been detained long from his loved employment. His last discourse was preached on Thursday evening, November 7th, in his own chapel, from the words of the Psalmist, "I have made a covenant with my chosen, I have sworn unto David my servant, thy seed will I establish for ever, and build up thy throne to all generations (Psalm lxxxix. 3, 4). The first Sunday evening in November, while administering the ordinance of the Lord's Supper, he was led very solemnly to speak on the importance of holding fast by the truth; and he then charged his hearers, "if that should be the last time he should address them," to hold fast the profession of their faith. This was the last time he spoke publicly in his Master's name, with the exception of the Thursday evening following, as mentioned above.

The Sunday following his death, Mr. C. Robinson, a member of the church, occupied the pulpit, and the deepest grief was manifest throughout the congregation, for what at present appears an irreparable loss for the church; and the preacher implored the Lord to "disappoint their fears by not causing the church to be scattered."

On Monday, the 25th, the body of Mr. Abrahams was laid in his study, and hundreds of his friends there took a farewell glance of that countenance upon which they had so often gazed, while he "talked to them of Jesus."

On Tuesday, November 26th, the funeral took place at Abney Park Cemetery; and on Sunday, December 1st, Mr. Luckin is to preach in the morning, and Mr. Bayfield (of Brighton) in the evening, when special reference will be made to the solemn event; and in our January number we hope to devote some space to the funeral, the sermons, and some further reference to the deceased.

Mr. Abrahams leaves behind him a widow and twelve children; we pray they may realise the promise of our Lord, "I will be a Father to the fatherless, and a Husband to the widow."

R.

Although Mr. Abrahams' departure was at too late a period in the month for us to give any lengthened detail of his last days, we cannot allow this number to be issued without a few words in remembrance of one whose ministry, on one occasion, was so signally and specially useful to us. In the year 1843, the Lord sent him with a message of superabounding mercy to our soul. At that time we had some interviews with him, and remember some part of the history which he gave of himself. He had then been preaching in London over fifteen years, so that his ministry in the great metropolis, and in different parts of England, must have been something like forty years, during the whole of which

period he was preserved and honoured, to bear a faithful testimony to the greatness and glory of the Person and Work of the Lord Jesus Christ, as well as to the essential dignity and power of the Personality of the Holy Ghost, and of His sanctifying grace and peculiar work in the hearts of the redeemed. In these last days few men can be found who more faithfully, in their ministry, take forth the precious from the vile, than did the late much revered and greatly beloved servant of Christ, Mr. George Abrahams.

Of his many bodily infirmities we have heard, occasionally, for years, but the tidings of his death came suddenly upon us; and although for him to depart and be with Christ is far better than all the mercies and privileges he enjoyed here, still, for his own church and congregation, for ourselves, and for thousands throughout the land, we could but shed tears of sorrow when we found he had been, after severe afflictions, called home.-EDITOR.

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THIS is the language of one who had an experimental knowledge of the love of Jesus; not a mere speculative or hearsay persuasion, but a divinely inwrought enjoyment of His love; a spiritual knowledge of the everlasting, free, infinite, invincible, transforming, and eternal love of Jesus Christ.

"And washed us from our sins in His own blood." This statement implies an experimental enjoyment of the purifying efficacy of Christ's blood. The Spirit-taught apostle having referred to the principle which actuated the Saviour, proceeds to declare its results, which, while they manifest the glorious power of the Divine love, bring into clearer view the condition of its objects. To love the holy and happy would have been an essential outflow of benevolence. But for the eternal and only begotten Son of God to set His Sovereign love upon sinful and ungodly creatures, who were His enemies, was to engage Himself to offices of love which none but the God-man could accomplish. To love such crea

tures was to unite Himself with them, and graciously to identify Himself with their wretchedness, and firmly resolve to save them from all their sins, and to bring them by His Holy Spirit's power to a sweet realisation of His own happiness and glory. Blessed be His glorious name; having loved His people He will not abandon them in their misery, troubles and trials; nor suffer them to remain at a distance front Himself in time and eternity (John xiv. 1—3).

But the Redeemer had many formidable obstacles to remove before He could bring us to the enjoyment of the Divine favour. God is holy and just; we are sinful, guilty, and depraved. We have violated the holy law, dishonoured a just legislator, and incurred the righteous indignation of God's justice. Jesus must magnify the law, honour the legis

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