the missionaries. The severe measure to which the head of the Armenian Church had recourse induced the Porte to recognise the existence of an Evangelical or Gospel Church in the Turkish dominions, and since that time the missionaries and the Scripture readers have enjoyed a measure of freedom unknown to them before. And now, those men who have so often gone forth bearing precious seed, come again rejoicing, bringing their sheaves with them. Congregations and fraternities of Scripture readers have been formed in many places in Turkey, in the chief cities, in the Lebanon mountains, and in the villages situate in the valley of the Euphrates. Let but the Bible continue to be freely circulated and read in Turkey, and the days of Moslemism shall soon be numbered; and with it shall depart that physical and moral degradation and debasement which are its inevitable consequents. And fields shall bloom, and cities shall rise, and arts, and science, and commerce, shall all flourish where first they prevailed. Till that foul superstition which hangs, fog-like, over those regions where the light of the Gospel once so clearly shone, shall cease to exist, all attempts to regenerate the East will be abortive. Whether the missionaries shall be allowed to remain, and the Bible to be read, shall depend almost entirely on the British Ambassador acting in a decided way. Those Governments in Europe which are connected with the Romish and Greek Churches would rejoice, no doubt, were the missionaries expelled. The spread of Christianity there is introducing an element of strength which these Governments cannot turn to account, and which will not be friendly to their interests. But let Britain act in the matter which becomes her character and position as a Protestant country. If France is represented in Turkey by the Romish Church, and Russia by the Greek Church, why should not Britain demand that Protestantism shall at least be tolerated there? This would conduce not less to the advancement of her own interests, than to the interests of those regions which were flourishing and powerful once, and would be so yet again, were they only rescued from those despicable tyrants, and abominable and filthy superstitions, which have oppressed and polluted them so long. LADY HEWLEY'S CHARITIES. THE FOUNDATION DEED OF JANUARY, 1704, DE- (Continued from page 407.) And as to all the surplus and remainder of the aforesaid cleare and residuary rents, issues, sues, and profitts of the premisses from and after the decease of the said Dame Sarah Hewley during all the continuance of the said trust estates in the same premises respectively. Upon special trust and confidence, and to the intent that they the said Richard Stretton, Nathaniel Gold, Thomas Marriott, John Bridges, Thomas Nesbitt, Thomas Colton, and James Winlow, and the survivors and survivor of them, and his, and their assignes and the executors and administrators of such survivor shall and will from time to time imploy and dispose of the same in and for the releiving of such godly persons in distresse, being fitt objects of the said Dame Sarah Hewley's and the Trustees' and Managers' charity as the said Trustees and Managers' for the time being or any foure or more of them shall think fitt, provided neverthelesse, and it is hereby declared and intended that the said Trustees and Managers for the time being, or such of them as aforesaid shall in their dispositions and distribucons of the above mentioned charitys have a primary and cheife respect to such objects thereof as aforesaid as are or shall be in Yorke, Yorkshire, and other northern countys in this realme, not including those in and interest to the same surviving Trustees, and to all the said elected Managers for the And it is further ordered, declared, and intended, that the said Trustees and Managers, their heirs, executors, or administrators shall not be charged or chargeable for any more monys then shall actually come to their respective hands or receipts, nor for any losses happening without the wilful default of them respectively, nor for the acts, receipts, neglects, or defaults one of another. other places and countys, as the said Trustees and Managers for the time being, or any foure or more of them from time to time shall think fitt, and time being thereby to compleate the said numalso that whatsoever charitable dispositions or ber of seven Trustees, and that the same new allowances by the said Dame Sarah Hewley shall conveyance and new assignement shall thereupon have been made to persons or places in Yorke or by advice of councill learned in the law, be Yorkshire immediately or shortly before her death, declared by all the same seven Trustees by sepashall be continued and paid out of the said cleare rate Indres in like manner as the afore-recited premisses by the said Trustees for the time being, declared by these presents upon the same trusts, and residuary rents, issues, and profitts of the conveyance, and the afore-recited assignement are until they or foure of them at the least, shall see and to and for the same intents and purposes, and just reason to discontinue, alter, or determine the with and under the same provisoes, powers, same or any of them respectively. And it is orders, instruccons, and limitacons in these hereby also declared, ordered, and intended, that presents menconed and contained, and with the the said Trustees and managers for the time being, same or like direccon as aforesaid therein to be or the major part of them, shall annually from and contained or declared for the nominating and perafter the decease of the said Dame Sarah Hewley, petuating new Trustees when and as often as two elect one of the Trustees or Managers for the time or three of the Trustees named in the conveyance being to be Treasurer of the rents, issues, and pro- or assignement for the time being shall have fitts of the said trust estates for the space of one departed this life in the same manner as is hereinyeare to be accounted from the day of such his bef: expressed and provided for in the like case. eleccon, which Treasurer for the time being shall be And it is hereby also declared, ordered, and inallowed to have a Clerke for the providing and tended, that reasonable notice of all meetings in keeping of books of account, wherein shall be entred order to the transacting of any businesses or and registred a true and perfect account of all matters of any weight or moment relating to the such rents, issues and profitts of the said trust aforesaid trusts or charitys shall be given to the received by the said Treasurer or his Clerke, or by estates, as shall from time to time be collected or severall Trustees and Managers for the time being, and that the judgment and concurrence therein of their or either of their order, and also a true and such of them who by remoteness of their dwellperfect account of all such menys as shall be dis-ings or other excuseable obstruccons may happen posed of, laid out, or expended in the performance not to be always present at certaine of such and execucon of the several trusts herein declared, meetings, may be consulted and endeavoured by and other the acts and transaccons relating to the said trusts and trust estates, and shall have and be writing. mutual correspondencies and intercourses in allowed for such Clerk such reasonable and moderate allowance out of the said trust estates as the Trustees and Managers for the time being or the major number of them shall approve and appoint. And moreover, that the said Trustees and Managers for the time being, or the major number of them, shall and will yearely after the decease of the said Dame Sarah Hewley, at some certain time and place, to be by them or such of them agreed upon the severall accounts to be stated and made up of and appointed meet together, to inspect and auditt and concerning the rents, issues, and profitts of the said trust estates, and the disposall of the said rents, issues, and profitts in the execon and performance of the severall trusts hereinbef: deif allowed and approved of by the Trustees and clared of and concerning the same, which accompts Managers for the time being of the said trust estates or the major number of them, by writing under their hands to be yearly made in the said books of accompts shall be a sufficient discharge to the Treasurer, so as such Treasurer for the time being do thereupon pay, answer, and make good the balance of such yearly accompt unto such person who shall be chosen Treasurer of the said trust estates for the then ensuing yeare, in such manner as the said Trustees and Managers for the time being, or the major number of them, shall well like and approve of. And it is hereby declared, ordered, and agreed by and betweene the said parties to these presents, that from time to time, as and when any one of the Trustees for the time being shall happen to dye, the survivors of them shall and may elect in the roome of every such deceasing Trustee such a person as they in their judgments and consciences shall think fitt and approve of, who shall be a Manager of the said Trust Estates together and equally with them the surviving Trustees, and have equally with them the same authority, benefitt, and power respecting the Trusts hereby declared, and in case of the death of any such elected Manager, to elect in like manner in his roome another like Manager, and that the eleccon of every such Manager for the time being shall be entred and registered in some or one of the books to be so provided and kept as aforesaid; and that after such time as two or three at the most of the said Trustees shall have departed this life, the survivors of them shall and may add to themselves as co-trustees with them; all and every the Managers so elected as aforesaid to make up the number of Trustees compleatly seven in the whole, and the said surviving Trustees shall thereupon by advice of Council learned in the Law convey all their said trust estate of and in the premises of inheritance unto the said persons who for the time being shall be such elected managers as aforesaid, or to some other persons and their heirs to the use of the said surviving Trustees and the said persons to be so added as co-trustees as aforesaid, and their heirs, and shall also by like advice of Council learned in the Law assigne all their estate and interest in the said leasehold premises to one or more person or persons to the intent that he or they shall immediately thereupon reassigne all the same estate PROVIDED lastly, and it is hereby declared, partys to these presents, that it shall and may be intended, and agreed, by and between the said lawful to and for the said Dame Sarah Hewley from time to time, and at any time during her life, by any deed or decds, writing or writings, to be by her subscribed and sealed in the presence of three or more credible witnesses, or by her last will and testament in writing to be by her published, subscribed, and sealed in the presence of the like number of witnesses, to revoke, alter, or make void, all, every, or any of the trusts, charitys, herein before declared, ordered, or appointed and by the same deed or deeds, writing or writings, or last will and testament in writing, or by any other deed or deeds, writing or writings, to be by her subscribed and sealed in the presence of three or more credible witnesses, to declare, order, or appoint any new or other trust or trusts, charity or charitys, order or orders, of or concerning the aforesaid trust, estates, and premisses, any or either of them, any thing in these presents or in the said recited indres, or any of them contained to the contrary, in anywise notwithstanding, IN WITNESSE whereof the said partyes to these presents have sett their hands and seales the day and yeare first above written. SARAH HEWLEY. (L.S.) RICH. STRETTON. (L.S.) NATH. GOUld. (L.S.) THOMAS MARRIOTT. (L.S.) JOHN BRIDGES. (L.S.) THOMAS NISBETT. (L.S.) THOMAS COLTON. (L.S.) (L.S.) Sealed and delivered by) MATT. BAYCOCKE, Sealed and delivered by the Hewley, (the double six- Sealed and delivered by the) SAM. WILLIAMS, SAM. SMITH, ROBERT RHODES, SAM. GRAve, Sen., JS. HARRISON, TO CORRESPONDENTS AND READERS. Letters or Parcels, The Messenger presents an eligible and suitable Presbyterian Church in England. THE PRESBYTERIAN COLLEGE. On the last day of March, the third Session of this College closed. The number of students who had matriculated amounted to nineteen, in different stages of progress, and the whole of whom have decided to devote their lives to the ministry of the Presbyterian Church. We understand that the progress of the students and their attainments in theological and other knowledge have given much satisfaction to the Professors. During the summer recess the students will be under the superintendence of the Presbyteries within whose bounds they may respectively reside; and, in the event of any of the respectable families of our congregations needing private instruction for their children, we would suggest that they might be serviceable to our students by engaging them as tutors. SCHEMES OF THE CHURCH. COLLEGE FUND. Amou it already advertised DOUGLAS, Isle of Man, Association, for last half year, per Mr. Menteith LIVERPOOL, St. George's Church, ditto, for last LONDON-WALL, Congregational Association, per ................. £23 9 7 1 13 11 2 18 9 £92 16 0 Treasurers. £89 10 Ditto, Seaton Delaval Church, per Rev. Ditto, Jarrow Church, South Shields, per Collection, Hexham Church, additional, per St. George's Sabbath-school, Sunderland, per Sabbath-school, Woolwich, per Lieut.-Colonel Collection, Wolverhampton Church, per Rev. J. Bryson Collection, Greenwich Church, per Mr. Arch. Sabbath-school, Blyth, per Rev. W. O. John ston.. 3 0 0 1 Professor Campbell obtained permission to 00 withdraw the overture, of which he had given notice on the subject of the Government plan of education. 00 1 On the motion of Mr. Ferguson, seconded 7 14 0 by Mr. James Hamilton, the Presbytery agreed to transmit the following overture to the ensuing meeting of Synod, viz. :— 2 10 0 2 0 0 1 12 6 8 10 0 4 "Whereas, the Sabbath-day has been instituted by Infinite Wisdom, hallowed by the highest example, established by Almighty power, and enforced by the strongest sanctions, to be a lasting ordinance unto the end of 0 10 0 time; Whereas, it is one of the most efficacious means for advancing the growth of that 'righteousness that exalteth a nation,' as well as for the suppression or prevention of that 'sin which is the reproach of any people.' Whereas it is confessedly profaned greatly in this land in many ways, but especially by the 360 facilities that are afforded by public conveyances to those who are inclined to seek their own pleasure on that holy day; Whereas, we have reason to fear that the cry of this national iniquity has come into the ears of the Lord 11 19 3 God of Sabaoth, and that more wrath may come down upon our land by a continued vio lation of this blessed day; Whereas, a very 6 100 gratifying testimony has been lately borne in 340 Scotland, and a successful struggle made by the Directors of the Edinburgh and Glasgow Railway, in defence of this sacred season; And whereas this testimony and struggle have been responded to by many parties in England, it is of much importance that our Church should be forward to maintain the same faithful testimony;-It is therefore hereby humbly overtured by the Presbytery of London to the Synod of the Presbyterian Church in England to take this important matter into their serious consideration, and to adopt such measures thereanent as they, in their wisdom, may deem best for the glory of God in the sanctification of the Sabbath-day." 316 6 1 £534 16 6 It was agreed that overtures to the Synod should take precedence of all other business. On the motion of Professor Campbell, seconded by Mr. Chalmers, the Presbytery unanimously agreed to transmit the following overture to the Synod, viz. : "Whereas, judging from past experience and the present ecclesiastical condition of this country, it is probable that ministers of other denominations will apply for admission into this Church; and whereas, it is of much 39187 importance that a certain settled form for such admission should be maturely framed and authoritatively issued by this Church ;28 5 0 it is therefore hereby humbly overtured by 7 5 6 the Presbytery of London to the Synod of the Presbyterian Church in England, that a Committee should be appointed with instructions to frame such form, and to submit the same to next meeting of Synod." "Whereas, a Directory of public worship 316 11 was drawn up by the Westminster Assembly of Divines, adopted by the General Assembly 1 12 2 of the Church of Scotland and by this 8 Church, which requires its office-bearers to maintain the same; and whereas, there is reason to believe that, in some parts of this Church, said Directory of public worship is not observed;-It is humbly overtured by the Presbytery of London to the Synod of the Presbyterian Church in England to take steps to secure that attention be paid to said Directory." 5 0 112 9 4 610 Alexander GILLESPIE, Treasurer. On the motion of Mr. Chalmers, seconded by It was agreed that, as a permanent Kirksession has been regularly formed at Southwark, the temporary session formerly appointed by the Presbytery be now discharged. A letter from the Secretary of the Home Mission Committee, in reply to a communication of the Presbytery in reference to Wolverhampton, was produced and read. The Presbytery instructed their clerk to communicate again with the Home Mission Committee on the subject. On the motion of Professor Campbell, seconded by Mr. Ferguson, the Presbytery approved (with the exception of a few alterations) of the overture on the constitution and powers of the Commission of Synod which had been sent down by Synod for the consideration of Presbyteries in terms of the Barrier Act. It was proposed that Mr. James Stewart, Student of Divinity, should be taken on trials, with a view to license. The Presbytery unanimously bore testimony to the character and qualifications of Mr. Stewart. But, as he had not attended the lectures in our Theological College for more than three months during the last session, the Court did not feel themselves warranted in taking him on probationary trials without the consent and sanction of the Synod, and they referred the case to the ensuing Meeting of Synod accordingly. The Presbytery adjourned to meet at 16, Exeter Hall, on the second Tuesday of May next, at three o'clock, p.m., and the sederunt closed with prayer. MEETING OF THE SYNOD OF THE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH. THE English Presbyterian Synod met at Sunderland on Tuesday, the 20th April last. The arrangements made for the meeting were most complete and admirable. The members of the Synod and the Church at large, are deeply indebted to Dr. Paterson, and to his session, for the judicious and efficient way in which matters were prepared. We have also gratefully to acknowledge the generous hospitality displayed by many families in Sunderland, and this not only by our Presbyterian friends, but also by some members of other denominations. The Wesleyans kindly put at the disposal of the Synod their large and commodious chapel in Faucett-street, and the churches of other denominations were with like liberality offered. The usual meetings of Synod were held in Dr. Paterson's chapel, St. George's. On Sunday, the 16th, two sermons were preached there; in the morning, by the Rev. James Hamilton, of London, and in the evening by the Rev. James Macaulay, of London, when collections were made in aid of the Synod Fund. At both of these services the chapel was densely filled. On Monday forenoon, a meeting of ladies, in St. George's vestry, was addressed by the Rev. Mr. Hamilton, along with Dr. Paterson and Mr. Macaulay, on the subject of the Mission to Corfu; and an Auxiliary Association for Sunderland was proposed in connexion with the "Ladies' Presbyterian Missionary Society" in London. A Provisional Committee of ladies belonging to various Christian denominations undertook to arrange the Auxiliary Society. On Tuesday morning the various Committees on the Schemes of the Church met to deliberate, and to mature the business to be brought by them before the Synod. During the meeting of Synod there was public preaching of the Gospel in the Wesleyan Chapel, Fawcett-street (kindly lent for the occasion) on the mornings of Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, at half-past ten o'clock. The Rev. J. Macnaughten of Paisley, the Rev. Patrick L. Miller of Newcastle, and Rev L. Irving of Falkirk, conducted the services.. In noticing the proceedings of the Synod, the "Sunderland Herald" of the 23d ult. remarks as follows:-"During this week the Synod of the English Presbyterian Church has held its meetings in Sunderland. This body assembles annually in one of the leading towns of England, and is the Supreme Court of the Presbyterian Church, whose office it is to review the decisions of the inferior courts, the Presbyteries, and generally to consult for the interests of the whole Church. It consists of the minister and an elder from each congregation, elected as their representative in the Synod by his brethren in the kirk session. The attendance of ministers and elders is very considerable, and much busi ness of a varied and interesting character has been transacted at these meetings. With the utmost freedom of debate, and a diversity of sentiment on many of the points that have come under review, the discussions have been characterized throughout by an excellent spirit, and often by much acuteness and power. It is, we conceive, a spectacle not unworthy of notice in these days, when ecclesiastical politics and religious creeds and measures are occupying so much of men's thoughts, to see in an important town of England a Synod sitting, consisting not merely of ministers of religion, but along with these, a large proportion of men who, in their sympathies and habits, exhibit the PROCEEDINGS OF SYNOD. Tuesday, April 20. The Rev. W. Blackwood preached an excellent and appropriate sermon from Psalm lxxxvii. 3, "Glorious things are spoken of thee, O city of God." After the appointment of various commit tees, and other routine business, the deputation from the Free Church of Scotland was received by the Synod. present state of things-not in Scotland only, but in all Christian lands-demands earnest and prayerful attention. Many signs of the times denote the near approach of the predicted prevalence of Antichristian power. To the world it will be a time of perplexity and trouble; to the Church, of sifting and testing of faith; to the people of God, a time of joy, for the day of redemption draweth THE Synod having been constituted by praise, nigh. In Scotland, the solemnity of the time reading of the word of God, and prayer, has been deepened by the rapid removal of conducted by the Rev. William Black- many of the most faithful and eminent serwood of Newcastle, Moderator, the roll of vants of God, such as Dr. Brown, of Glasgow, members was called. The Synod then pro- Dr. Muirhead, of Cramond, Mr. Munro, of ceeded to the election of a Moderator for Halkirk, and Mr. P. M'Bride, of Rothesay. the ensuing year. The retiring Moderator Of these and many others, removed during nominated the Rev. James Anderson of the past year, it might be truly said, "They Morpeth for the consideration of the Synod were good men, full of faith and of the Holy as his successor in the office: whereupon the Ghost, and much people was added through Rev. James Hamilton, of London, moved, and them unto the Lord." And while weeping the Rev. Professor Campbell seconded, the over their yet green graves, we cannot but appointment of Mr. Anderson, which was cry, "Help, Lord, for the godly man ceaseth: unanimously and cordially ageeed to. A the faithful do fail among the children of men." Committee on bills and overtures, for the ex- But the darker the times, the more need is there amination of the overtures and references to for the Church to be more decided, more be brought before the Court, was then ap- active, more prayerful. It seems as if England pointed, and also for arranging the order of were to be one of the chief fields for the last business for each diet of Synod. Professor conflict with the powers of darkness. And Campbell tendered his resignation as clerk of when we see the advancing forces of Popery Synod, but at the unanimous desire of the and Infidelity, and consider by what evanCourt agreed to act for another year. gelical body the cause of Protestant and Christian truth is to be maintained, it is evident that the English Presbyterian Church will occupy a post of peculiar honour, difficulty, and responsibility. The Anglican Church is nearly impotent to meet Popery, from the semi-Popish principles pervading so large a proportion of her members; and the Dissenters of England, from their want of organization, are unable to bear up against the united and energetic influence to which they are exposed. Individual Christians and congregations may be firm enough, but this will be as unavailing as the strength or valour of individual soldiers or regiments of an army without unity of purpose or of command. To the Presbyterian Churches of this land we must chiefly look for the public maintenance of the truth in the gathering conflict. It would be well if the English Presbyterian Church early and conspicuously took the field, and by identifying itself with the great religious questions of the day, prove a rallying point for good men throughout the land. For instance, in regard to the Lord's-day, secing that the cause of morality and religion is so bound up with Sabbath observance, it would be well for the Church to take a prominent position. With sound principles and Divine promise to rest upon, and with the successful example of the Free Church of Scotland to encourage its efforts, the English Presbyterian Church might do much to bring about a more healthful state of public feeling on this matter. It would be well also for this Church to take up very prominently and distinctively some field of missionary labour; and it is gratifying to find that China has been selected, in which vast empire there is as yet no British Presbyterian mission. He then pointed out the effects of the disruption in Scotland, which were appearing not in England alone, but on the Continent, and in the colonies, and in the most distant parts of the globe. Mr. Macnaughten concluded by expressing, on behalf of the Free Church, sympathy and congratulation with their sister Church; and stated, that instead of having only formal deputations, a standing committee had been instituted and organized for correspondence with the English Synod. Professor Lorimer, as one of the deputation to the Free Church Assembly at Edinburgh last year, reported the very cordial welcome there received. The Rev. J. Macnaughten, of Paisley, then addressed the house. He gave a most interesting sketch of the proceedings of the Free Church during the past year, as well as of its present position and prospects. In the increasing number of its congregations and adherents, in the growing liberality of the people, and in the prosperity of its missionary enterprises, both at home and abroad, the Lord was vouchsafing many tokens of his sovereign favour and love. At the beginning of last winter it was feared that, owing to the prevailing famine and distress, the Sustentation Fund might suffer materially; but it presents as healthful and flourishing a condition as in former periods. The extension of missionary work has led to great increase of expenditure in that field; to meet which, the Free Church hope that from their friends in England some assistance may be generously given. The recent reports of the missionaries, especially among the Jews and in India, are very satisfactory and encouraging. The ordination during the past year of a devoted band of native ministers in India, forms an important era in the history of the Church. With regard to the spiritual condition of the Church at home, there was much call for solemn thought and deep humiliation amidst the thanksgiving for outward prosperity. It is on all hands a matter of sad experience that there is little converting work going on, and that there seems to be a withholding of the influences of the Holy Spirit. Whether it be for the trial of the faith and patience of the Church, or whether for the drawing forth of greater zeal and more earnest prayer, or whether the dark shadows of the night are coming on before the dawning of the last bright and glorious day of the Lord, the The Rev. Lewis Irving, of Falkirk, confirmed the statements of Mr. Macnaughten Some matters of minor importance were thereafter disposed of, including arrangements rendered necessary by temporary informality on the part of the Lancashire Presbytery, the members of which were admonished from the chair, and charged to exercise greater diligence in future. as to the comparative deadness now pervading | work, and the grounds on which he now the land, and the lack of living spirituality. accepted the call of the Synod. At the same time, the encouraging reports from many fields of missionary work prove that the sun is shining and the rain of heaven descending on other parts. Rejoicing in the prospect of the English Synod soon being engaged in active missionary work, and in various enterprises of usefulness at home, and being delighted by witnessing the living and advancing aspect of the Church, Mr. Irving concluded by urging the desirableness of closer correspondence and connexion between the sister Presbyterian Churches of this land, and earnestly praying for the continued prosperity of the English Synod. The Moderator of the Synod then conveyed to the deputation from Scotland the thanks of the house for the interesting and spiritstirring addresses which had been heard, and requested them to express to their General Assembly the lively gratification felt by the English Synod in being honoured by the presence among them of the representatives of so honoured a Church as the Free Church of Scotland.-Adjourned. Wednesday, April 21. The Synod met this day at twelve o'clock, and being constituted, the Report of the College Committee was read. A very satisfactory account was given, both as to the number of students and their progress during the past session. Among the recommendations for the future, the principal was the appointment of a Professor of Theology. The Treasurers' Report was also read, as also that of the Treasurer of the Bursary Committee. On the unanimous recommendation of the College Committee, it was resolved to invite the Rev. William Arnott, of St. Peter's, Glasgow, to accept the office of Primary Pro fessor. The Rev. Mr. Hamilton, one of the Committee, entered at some length into the duties of the office and the qualifications of Mr. Arnott's orderly and systematic mind, his accomplishments as a scholar, his eminent piety and extensive success as a minister, his warmth of character and love for his work, and his aptitude to teach the rising ministry their varied and important duties, and to shew them at once the dignity and responsibility of the ministerial office. Mr. Arnott was also in the vigour of life, and yet had extensive experience in the ministry. The necessity of having some preliminary educational institute was strongly urged by Professor Lorimer, in order to obtain a supply of students from England, sufficiently educated to enter upon the regular course of the Divinity Hall. After appointment of Committees and other necessary arrangements, the Synod offered up thanksgiving to God for the countenance bestowed on this Institution hitherto, and especially for the cordial decision to which they had been led as to the appointment of the Rev. Mr. Arnott. The Rev. James Ferguson, of Stepney, conducted the devotions. The Report of the Committee on Foreign and Jewish Missions was next read. The Treasurer's Report was also read. Upwards of 10007. is in hand, and the increase of receipts during last year was considerably over the previous year. The first year only twenty-six congregations contributed; in the last year fifty-four contributed out of seventysix churches. The Rev. W. C. Burns being present, was invited to address the house; and he gave an account of his views with regard to missionary At the evening diet, the Rev. John Jaffray, Agent to the Mission Committee of the Free Church of Scotland, was heard as a deputy from that Church. Having expressed great satisfaction at the missionary proceedings of the Synod as witnessed by him that day, and a hearty desire that the English Synod would seek and obtain help in Scotland for the Chinese Mission, Mr. Jaffray, on the part of the Mission Committee of the Free Church, requested that arrangements might be made for a deputation from Scotland visiting the English Church, with a view to obtain aid for the missions, especially in India and Africa, which are under circumstances of peculiar difficulty. It was agreed, that during the course of summer there should be deputations from both Churches, mutually to plead on each other's ground in behalf of their several missions. The arrangements were referred to the Committee on Foreign and Jewish Missions. The Report on Sabbath observance was read by the Rev. John Gardner, of Birkenhead. Various deputations were then received on this subject. On the part of the Lord'sday Society of Newcastle, Thomas Graham, Esq., of Edmund Castle, Cumberland, and George Thomas Bell, Esq., of Newcastle, were heard. Although an Episcopalian, Mr. Graham expressed the high satisfaction he felt in appearing before this venerable court, and he knew no other body in this country so likely to take successfully the lead in the great cause of Christian and patriotic enterprise. Mr. Graham gave some account of the great amount of Sabbath desecration connected with railways in the North of England, and expressed his hope that, by Christian men with faith and courage taking the field, much might be done to arrest the progress of the evil. Mr. Bell, as Secretary of the Newcastle Society, expressed on the part of W. Chapman, Esq., the President, and the other office-bearers, their earnest hope that the English Presbyterian Synod would vigorously take up the subject. Sir Andrew Agnew then gave an account of the proceedings connected with the Edinburgh and Glasgow Railway. He said, that the successful issue of the contest in which they had been engaged had, under God, been mainly effected by the exertions of one of the elders of the English Presbyterian Church, a member of this court, Mr. Greig, of Manchester. Mr. Greig and the Rev. Mr. Macnaughten addressed the Synod on the same subject. A committee was appointed for fixing a day for the delivery of sermons on Sabbath desecration, and issuing a Synodical address. It was then resolved that a vote of thanks should be forwarded to the Directors of the Edinburgh and Glasgow Railway Company for the noble stand which they had made in favour of the observance of the Sabbath; and the Moderator also conveyed the thanks of the Synod to the deputations.-Adjourned. Thursday, April 21. The Synod met this day at ten, for the purpose of setting apart the Rev. W. C. Burns to the missionary work in China. The Moderator commenced the services. After praise, prayer, and reading the word of God, the Rev. W. Chalmers, of London, preached a most admirable sermon from John xix. 30, "It is finished." The Rev. Dr. Paterson gave a short statement of the steps taken in the present matter, and put the usual questions required by the ordination service. During the ordination prayer by Dr. Paterson, the Presbytery of Newcastle did solemnly ordain Mr. Burns as missionary by the laying on of hands. The charge was given by the Rev. Dr. Paterson; and after singing of praise, and prayer, the Synod resumed its ordinary business. A committee was appointed to draw up a letter of sympathy and condolence with the bereaved family and flock of the late Rev. Josias Wilson, of Islington. The report of the Home Mission Committee was then read by the Rev. D. Fergusson, of Liverpool. The Rev. John Gardner, of Birkenhead, in moving that the thanks of the Synod be recorded to the Convener, and to Mr. Robert Barbour, of Manchester, as Treasurer, gave a most interesting statement of what had been done in his own church in the matter of congregational associations, which will be given at length in our next number. An overture was adopted from the Lancashire Presbytery, praying the Synod to take steps to prevent the erection of new charges by presbyteries, without the sanction of the Synod, or its Commission. The report of the Treasurer of the Synod Fund was read, and various suggestions of the Synod Committee for the future regulation of the Fund were adopted. The report of the School Committee was read by Professor Lorimer. At the evening meeting a conference of Synod took place regarding the state of religion within the bounds. After hearing the statements of several members, a Committee was appointed to make inquiries by correspondence throughout the churches, and to report. The Rev. W. Blackwood brought up the reports relating to the Rev. Josias Wilson. The letters having been read and approved, the Synod engaged in devotional exercises, acknowledging the Divine sovereignty in this mournful dispensation, and pleading for the presence and favour of God with the family and flock, and praying that a faithful pastor might be sent to that church. An overture from the Presbytery of London on the psalmody of the Church was read and supported by the Rev. W. Chalmers, and a Committee was appointed to take up this matter, and submit their suggestions to the Synod and its Commission. An overture from the Presbytery of London was read on the admission of ministers and congregations from other communions, and a committee was appointed to draw up regulations. An overture from the Presbytery of Lancashire was read on the subject of the institution of day-schools in connexion with the Presbyterian Church. Reports were read on the geographical bounds of Presbyteries, and some other matters which had been referred to committees. Arrangements were made for the deputations of Synod visiting the Presbyteries of Northumberland, Cumberland, and Berwick. Directions were given to a committee to frame regulations regarding the employment of probationers, and to report. The matter was introduced by overture from the Presbytery of London, read and supported by Professor Lorimer. A deputation of elders and deacons was appointed to visit the various Presbyteries of the Church, where it seemed advisable, in order to give aid and advice in the formation of associations, or otherwise to promote the schemes of the Church. A petition was presented from the Session of St. John's, South Shields, with complaints against the Presbytery of Newcastle, and a request to be associated with some other Presbytery; but on objections being made to the matter being brought before the court without due notice, and without passing through the Presbytery, the petition was withdrawn. A return was given of elders, deacons, and weekly services in the several congregations of the Church, and a similar return was or dered for next year. An overture from the Presbytery of London calling attention to the Westminster Directory of Public Worship was referred to a Committee to correspond with the several Presbyteries on the subject. may here explain that the meetings of the | it stands, and from one no return had been Presbyteries of the Church are continuous, made. It was recommitted with instructions being adjourned from one sitting to the next, to attend to the suggestions of the dissentient of the time and place of which announcement Presbyteries. is made and notice duly given: and if the adThe Rev. D. Fergusson, having intimated journed Meeting is not held (as, in the present his intention of retiring from the Secretary-instance, for want of a quorum), the Presbytery ship of the Home Mission Committee, the loses its power of action as an ecclesiastical Moderator, at the desire of the house, re- court, and all acts done by it as a court are quested that he would continue to hold this informal, until new power and authority is important office until other arrangements communicated to it by the Synod, as the could be effected, to which Mr. Fergusson superior court. It will be seen from this, kindly acceded. how important and necessary it is that members of Presbytery should be punctual and diligent in the discharge of the duties devolved on them. If from very special circumstances it should happen that a Presbytery thus becomes ecclesiastically defunct, the wisest course is to obtain a Meeting of Commission of Synod, which can be called by the Moderator on requisition, and from it receive resuscitation and fresh power. In the new code of discipline now being drawn up by the Synod, we trust that this matter will "That this Synod,-while objecting to be provided for by prudent regulations, as several details in the present Minutes of there are certainly some things inconvenient Council on Education, at the same time conin the present practice of the Church courts. sidering the great evils of popular ignorance, The discussion in the Synod was brought and asserting the duty of the State to to an issue by a vote being taken on these promote popular education, and rejoicing that two motions; the first that the whole pro- the authorized version of the Bible is alone ceedings in the matter of Mr. McCaw should recognised in schools, assisted by Government now by the Synod be ratified and confirmed; grants,-leave each congregation within its and the second, that the Presbytery of Lan-bounds free to take its own course as to cashire be instructed to proceed with Mr. receiving Government aid, and instruct the McCaw's induction according to the rules of School Committee of the Synod to give special the Church. attention to this subject." The following members of Synod were appointed as a deputation to the Free Church of Scotland, at the meeting of the General Assembly:-The Moderator, Dr. Paterson, of Sunderland, James Nisbet, Esq., of London, George F. Barbour, Esq., and Thomas Greig, Esq., of Manchester. A standing committee of correspondence with the Free Church of Scotland and Irish Presbyterian Church was formed, consisting of Professors Lorimer and Campbell, Rev. Messrs. Alex. Monro, James Anderson, James Hamilton, Wm. Blackwood, James Ferguson, and Dr. Paterson, Ministers; and Messrs. Robert Barbour, Wm. Hamilton, Alex. Gillespie, James Nisbet, John W. Lamb, Lieut.Col. Anderson, James Hood, and Thomas Greig, Elders. Rev. James Ferguson, Con It was agreed by vote that the Synod should meet next year at Newcastle. Of the members present, 36 voted for the Meeting being held at Newcastle, and 27 for London; others declining to vote. The Rev. Mr. Storie, of St. John's, South Shields, gave a verbal report of his visit to the Conference of the Welsh Calvinistic Methodists, from whom he, as deputy for the English Presbyterian Synod, received a most cordial reception. Mr. Storie was followed by several members, who warmly urged that the closest possible communication should be maintained with a church so nearly allied in doctrine, government, and worship. The Rev. Messrs. Gardner and D. Fergusson, ministers, and Mr. Lamont, elder, were appointed as a deputation to attend the next meeting of the Welsh Conference. Friday, April 23. After some routine business, a long and very animated debate took place with regard to the ordination and induction of the Rev. Mr. McCaw, of Trinity Church, Manchester. The matter was brought before the house on the report of a committee which had been appointed to examine the records of the Lancashire Presbytery, in the proceedings of which body some irregularities had occurred. It appeared that this ordination took place at a time when the Lancashire Presbytery had become what is technically called "defunct." For the benefit of those of our readers who are unacquainted with ecclesiastical forms, we An overture on the Government Education Plan from the Presbytery of Northumberland was read and supported by the Rev. Mr. Huie, of Wooler. After some discussion, in which the Rev. Mr. Storie, Mr. Terrot Glover, and the Rev. Mr. Kerr Johnstone took part, the following Resolution, on the motion of the Rev. Mr. Macaulay, seconded by the Rev. Mr. Gardner, of Birkenhead, was unanimously agreed to: Mr. Wm. Hamilton reported from the Committee for watching over the interests of the Church, that nothing had occurred during the past year requiring active duty, except in the matter of the Charitable Trusts Bill, which however had been withdrawn, in consequence of the opposition made to its injurious The supporters of the first motion argued The supporters of the second motion re- The first motion was carried on a vote by 50 to 15. Reasons of dissent were afterwards read by the Rev. W. Chalmers on behalf of such of the minority as adhered thereto, and the Synod appointed a Committee to frame replies to these reasons. On the motion of the Rev. P. L. Miller, the rest of the Report on the records of the Lancashire Presbytery was referred to a Committee consisting of the Rev. Messrs. Hamilton, of London, and Mackenzie, of Birmingham, and Mr. Wm. Hamilton, of London, with instructions to visit the Presbytery of Lancashire, and to report to the Commission of Synod. Carried by vote, 38 to 23. The Report on the overture concerning the constitution and powers of Commissions of Synod was read, from which it appeared that of the six Presbyteries, four objected to certain details, one agreed to the document as A reference from the Presbytery of London was considered in the case of Mr. James Stewart, Student of Divinity, and leave was given to proceed with Mr. Stewart's trials according to the rules of the Church. A petition from Workington, and other matters, were referred to the Commission of Synod. The thanks of the Synod were conveyed by the Moderator to Dr. Paterson and the local committee, for the admirable arrangements made for this meeting. The The business of the Synod was not concluded till a late hour on Friday night. Moderator having given a very impressive and excellent address, and having conducted the closing services, announced that the next meeting of Synod was appointed to be held at Newcastle, in April, 1848. We are unable, on the present occasion, to give more than a brief summary of the business of the Synod; but the various reports laid before the house, and other official documents, will be given in subsequent numbers of the " Messenger." PORTRAIT OF THE LATE REV. JOSIAS WILSON (vide advertisement).-The friends of this lamented minister will be gratified by the publication of his portrait in lithograph, by Baugniet. The likeness is admirable. There is, perhaps, more of sternness in the expression than his features usually wore. It is, however, precisely his look, when he had made some statement of truth not to be gainsayed, or given utterance to a solemn warning, or a weighty reproof. |