the church at Dunfermline, concluded his ministry there on the close of last month.-Mr. T. G. Atkinson, late of Little Ilford, has accepted the unanimous invitation of the church at Harlington. -The Rev. C. F. Vernon has resigned the pastorate of the church at Coleham, Shrewsbury.-The Rev. A. C. Thomas has been compelled, by reason of illhealth, to resign the pastorate of the church at Cross-street, Islington.—The Rev. J. Hirons, late of Brixton-hill, has accepted the unanimous invitation of the church in George-street, Hull.—Mr. D. Russell, of the Metropolitan Tabernacle College, has accepted the earnest invitation of the church at Lower Edmonton. -Mr. George Reaney, late of Regent'spark College, has accepted the unanimous invitation from the church at Falmouth. -The Rev. J. K. Grant has resigned the pastorate of the church at Exmouth.

James Stuart, late of Rawdon College, and now at the Glasgow University, has accepted the unanimous invitation of the church at Anstruther. The Rev. J. Edelsten Taylor, of Bristol College, has accepted the invitation of the Baptist church meeting in High-street, Ilfra

combe.

ORDINATION AND RECOGNITION

SERVICES.

WEST HARTLEPOOL.-The Rev. John Charter, formerly a member of Berwick Street Chapel, Newcastle-on-Tyne, was ordained on Wednesday, December 16th, pastor of the Baptist church meeting in this rapidly increasing town. The Revs. W. S. Bontems, of Middlesborough, P. W. Grant, of Darlington, W. M'Phail, of Hartlepool, W. Leng, the senior minister in the Association, W. Walters, of Newcastle, conducted the services.

HEPHZIBAH CLERGY, DARLING PLACE, MILE END. A devotional service was held here on January the 5th, in connection with the formation of a new Baptist interest in this place, and the settlement of Mr. C. Cordelier as the pastor. The Rev. J. H. Blake, of Bow, presided; the Revs. W. A. Blake, Robert R. Finch, T. J. R. Temple, and others, took part,

BEAUMARIS.-On January 1st, Mr. Isaac James. of Pontypool College, was ordaiued pastor of the churches at Beaumaris and Llangoed, Anglesea. Sermons were preached by the Reve. W. Morgan, D.D., of Holyhead, J. D. Williams, of Bangor, J. Thomas, of Amlwch, and W. Thomas,

of Liverpool. The services were well attended, and excited much interest in the town. Mr. James commences his labours with encouraging prospects.

ANNIVERSARY AND OPENING
SERVICES.

PROVIDENCE CHAPEL, CANTON, CARDIFF. -This beautiful edifice, which has been built for the church over which the Rev. Josephus Bailey presides, was opened on Lord's-day, December 20th, when sermons were preached by the pastor, the Rev. J. Waite, B.A., Independent; the Rev. T. Barlow, Methodist; and the Rev. John Emlyn Jones, LL.D., of Cardiff. On Tuesday, December 22nd, a public meeting was held; the chair was occupied by R. Cory, sen., Esq., and addresses were delivered by the Rev. John Williams, Newport, the Rev. E. Jones, Pentyrch, the Rev. T. Barlow, the Rev. P. Maddocks, the Rev. J. Bailey, and by Wm. Ward, Esq. Collections were made after each service, and the amounts received were very encouraging to the friends of this new cause, which has every prospect of success.

THE METROPOLITAN TABERNACLE COLLEGE.-The annual meeting of the friends and supporters of this college was held at the Tabernacle on December 16th. Mr. Spurgeon presided, and addresses were delivered by the Rev. G. Rogers, Mr. R. Weaver, and several of the students. Besides the sixty-six students in the college proper, there is an evening school, in which nearly 200 more young men are receiving (books at trade price excepted) a gratuitous education in the elements of classics, mathematics, and the usual branches of commercial instruction. The present expenditure is close upon £3,000 a year, and the college is not, and never has been, one shilling in debt.

WYLE COP, SHREWSBURY.-On Christmas Day, the Baptist Chapel, Wyle Cop, Shrewsbury, was opened. The Revs. John Williams, of Holyhead, J. P. Barnett, of Birmingham, D. Evans, of Dudley, F. Perkins, M.A., Cosely, T. Baugh, Shrewsbury, J. Smith, Pontesbury, conducted the services.

MISCELLANEOUS,

LITTLE WILD STREET, LONDON,-On New Year's day, an interesting service was held on the occasion of the retirement of the Rev. C. Woollacott, who has been thirty years pastor of this church,

and fifty years engaged in ministerial labours. A handsome purse, containing about a hundred pounds, was presented to Mr. Woollacott as a testimonial from the church and congregation. The chair was occupied by R. Lush, Esq., Q.C., and addresses were given by the Rev. W. Brock, P. Dickerson, W. Landels, P. Williamson, F. Wills, and G. Wyard.

PARADISE CHAPEL, CHELSEA.-On Wednesday, the 9th of December, a tea and public meeting was held in the above chapel, William Olney, Esq., in the chair. Addresses were given by the Revs. J. F. Cole, George Evans, and Alexander Brown. The pastor, Mr. Frank H. White, made some interesting and gratifying statements relative to the new chapel about to be erected. From

his address it appears that the church has greatly increased since the commencement of his pastorate, and that the necessity of a larger building in a more accessible locality has for a long time been felt; such a step, however, seemed impracticable, until Sir Morton and Lady Peto generously offered to secure a piece of ground, and guarantee half the cost of the building, providing the church at Paradise Walk would undertake to collect the remainder. This offer was gratefully accepted, and an admirable site secured adjacent to the new Chelsea barracks. The chapel

is to accommodate 1,000 people, with school-room, &c. The entire cost is estimated at £3,500, the whole of which, it is ardently hoped, will be raised before the day of opening. Towards the attainment of this object the contributions of Christian friends are earnestly solicited, and will be thankfully received by the pastor, Rev. Frank H. White, 4, Bloomfield Place, Pimlico, S.W.

RECENT DEATHS,

Mr. JOHN HORSEPOOL, of Leicester. The subject of this short memoir was born at the village of Norton-by-Galby, in Leicestershire, being one of a family of seven children. He was favoured with parents of eminent piety, who, living in a dark neighbourhood, where religious opportunities were very limited, "shone as lights in the world, holding forth the word of life." Both had been early brought to the knowledge of the truth through the preaching of evangelical ministers of the Church of England. Their example and precepts were greatly blessed to their family.

Our respected friend, their second son, was the subject of deep religious convictions from boyhood. Being of a remarkably diffident and timid turn of mind, he does not appear to have made any person acquainted with his anxietics. In after years, however, he frequently referred to the impressions received from the instructions of his parents: and at a small chapel in the village of Stretton, about a mile from their home, from which he often returned alone across the fields, weeping and praying as he walked-retiring from the family circle to read such works as the life of Cennick, and others of a similar order. An intense thirst for knowledge was manifest in his earliest years. He seemed to love solitude, preferring generally to spend his leisure hours alone, rather than with children of his own age. This desire for information was perseveringly cherished, notwithstanding the many obstacles in his path. Every occasion was scized which the intervals of a sedentary and manual occupation, with limited opportunity, afforded, to provide himself with the means of instruction, His tuition was confined to what a village school of that day, enjoying some reputation, could give. Under these circumstances, and thus early in life, was the habit commenced of surrounding himself with the writings of the great and good of past and present genera tions, but chiefly of the former. With slender educational pretensions, he pos sessed literary tendencies and tastes, and took much pleasure in the quiet gratification of them. He was fond, as he advanced in life, of getting hold of the choicest editions of the works he wished to obtain; and, while his selection was made from the productions of the more solid and substantial writers, he was by no means indifferent to the minor charms of binding and of type. He seemed to think that valuable jewels deserve corresponding caskets. Gratifying this passion for books as far as prudence would allow, through many years, the result was the gradual collec tion of a considerable theological library, interspersed with works of science and of poetry. These volumes he has kindly left to be ultimately distributed among the colleges of the Particular Baptist Body, with a legacy of £50 to the Missionary Society. Though he was not insensible to the beauties of nature, nor to the attractions of the higher creations of fiction, his mind was especially reflec

tive, and liked to muse on the solemn and the grave. He carried with him such a sense of the magnitude and weight of the highest interests and pursuits, that it seemed to him to be a wantonness and a waste to give much heed to more transient themes-a feeling which, while it had the approval of his judgment, was deepened, there is no doubt, by his prevailing temperament. Though he never despised the scientific or the ideal, these were overshadowed, and all but superseded in his esteem, by the majesty of those moral and religious truths, before which the contemplative faculty is wont to expand. His chosen relaxation, whether from ordinary cares, or from the anxieties incident on more important pursuits, was music, in which he took a serene delight, and in which he evinced correct judgment and taste. Those who knew him but superficially, and who were prone to perplex temperament with disposition, and to confound physical with mental qualities, would be apt to misconstrue him, but men of nice and just discrimination-more accurate observers of human nature-might see in him much to admire and to copy.

He

did not appear to advantage in the glare of social life, but shone brightest in the circle of select and confidential friendship.

Until the year 1821, Mr. Horsepool's home and occupation were with his parents. At that time he left them to spend a year in London. Whilst in the city, his recreations were generally those which the book stores afforded. He would walk many miles to obtain a work which might have caught his eye while passing along the street. It was also his practice to hear all the celebrated preachers of the day. The great change from pure country air to close crowded city work-rooms, was a severe trial to health, and laid the foundation of much suffering through life. At the expiration of the year, he returned to his native village, removing thence to Leicester in November, 1822. The invalua ble qualities of decision and perseverance (important as well as predominating elements of his character), led to his success in business, as also to the acquisition of knowledge.

At this period, Mr. Horsepool's mind was deeply exercised on the evidences of Christianity. Standard works on that subject were carefully and anxiously read. Step by step, as his speculative mind required satisfaction, its

evidences were examined. Very unusual was the instance which led him to be so communicative as to give the slightest idea of what was perplexing him, or even to seek information elsewhere than from his books; so that his most intimate friends knew little of the workings of his mind. The removal of the Rev. Robert Hall from Leicester, in the year 1826, was the crisis of Mr. Horsepool's religious history. The anticipated loss of such teaching, led to close self-examination, eventually resulting in his public confession of Christ by baptism, and union with the church over which Mr. Hall had presided. Love to his Saviour then led him to the Sabbath school, where for some years the senior class enjoyed the benefit of his instructions. He was permitted to see the consecration of many of them to the Saviour whom he had set before them: neither can they forget his exertions to encourage them to self-help and improvement.

The cares of business and of his family were no interruption to his love of literature. By economy of time, and the power of mental concentration, his thoughts were always occupied on some subject. Constantly communicating, he possessed the happy art of encouraging the different members of his family to seck information almost unconsciously to themselves, appearing at the same time to learn with them.

"He who is too wise to err, and too good to be unkind," was pleased to remove by death, in the year 1845, his only son, at the age of twelve. A few months after, the parental feelings are thus recorded:-"I feel the pain keen as at first, although I think it best to keep silence: still, mercy was mingled with judgment, for he lived long enough to leave a pleasing testimony that he is gone where sorrow and pain are no more. I have been assailed with many doubts and difficulties, and know not where to look, but for the free unmerited favour of God, through the atoning sacrifice of Jesus Christ. At times, I feel impatient to enter eternity to see more of the Divine glory. 'I shall be satisfied, when I awake, with Thy likeness.'"

Earnestly desirous to do more for the welfare of his fellow-creatures, at a cost to his personal feelings-only those who knew him well could understand-he sought to overcome his natural timidity. and went into the surrounding villages to preach Christ. In reference to this

work, he thus expresses himself:"I have been mercifully delivered from all doubts on the subject of religion, which, in years past, gave me great trouble.

My earnest desire is to spend my few remaining days to the glory of God, by endeavouring, in my feeble way, to point others to the Lamb of Goddeeply convinced there is no other source of comfort and happiness, but to live a life of faith on the Son of God. I see a dignity, a glory, a beauty in the Word, which no language can describe, no heart feel sufficiently. The entrance of Thy word giveth light.'

Within the space of three years from the former bereavement, affliction again visited his dwelling, and the younger of his two remaining children was cut off in the bloom of youth and promise, leaving a clear and pleasing testimony that she too was gone to be with Jesus. Bowed down by this trial, our departed friend evinced submission to the Divine will, saying, "It is good for me; my times are in Thy hand, O God of my salvation."

66

For a period of three years, Mr. Horsepool's labours were more especially directed to the village of Syston, where he partially resided. Here his labours were seconded and assisted by his belov ed and only remaining daughter, whose name is yet fragrant in the circle in which her efforts were so abundantly owned and blessed. Possessing a cultivated and well-balanced mind, she was a companion and counsellor to her parents. "Her correct, matured judg ment, and devoted heart," said one of them, ever directed her to act with wisdom." Here, thus sup. ported, he devoted his time and resources to the welfare of the Baptist cause. This comfort of their declining years was also taken from the sight of the sorrowing parents in the spring of 1851. In the wisdom of God, their faith and patience had yet this test to pass-the resignation of their last treasure. Greatly honoured, both in the life and death of this beloved child, they ever looked forward with joyful anticipation, in hope of re-union."

At the close of this year Mr Horsepool withdrew entirely from business, and devoted his time and energies to his Sabbath engagements, and the welfare of the Baptist congregations in the two villages of Syston and Oadby: in the latter of which he alternately laboured.

Frequent and painful bereavements

contributed to enfeeble the health which had never been robust. During his remaining years, he was several times laid aside by illness, and again restored to resume his Sabbath labours. In the year 1857, the Baptist church at Oadby solicited his acceptance of the pastorate, and there he continued his valuable ministrations until within one Sabbath of his death.

The latter years of his life were more entirely devoted to the study of the Word of God. In the words of one who has also passed into the world of spirits, Mr. Horsepool has often remarked"Literature is inimical to spirituality, if it be not kept under with a firm hand. A man ought to call in from every quarter whatever may assist him to understand, explain, and illustrate the Bible-but there-in its light and lifeis all that is good for man. I have read too much for curiosity, and for mental gratification. I feel, and would urge with all possible strength on others, that Jesus Christ is our All in All."

In January, 1860, the remains of his beloved partner were laid in the tomb. He sorrowed not, as those without hope, but was enabled to adopt the language of one of old-"By these things men live, and in all these things is the life of my spirit." Permitted to continue to work in the vineyard yet another period of three years, he was, after a few days' illness called to receive his reward.

On the 24th of May, 1863, his last sermon was preached from Rev. ii. 9., "I know thy poverty, but thou art rich." Many of his hearers had latterly remarked the deep earnestness and spirituality of his teaching in the consciousness of his ripeness for the heavenly garner. His demeanour in the home circle was that of one ready to "enter into the joy of his Lord;" "his loins being girt, his lamp burning."

As each day brought the end nearor, he manifested a more child-like simplicity and trust in his Saviour. Conversing with a friend a few days before his short illness, Mr. Horsepool said, "I have set my books, &c., straight, that my mind may dwell more on the great change which I feel is awaiting me. I wish to impress on your mind now the reality of religion. The Gospel is no cunninglydevised fable; it is all truth-all truthand lately I have enjoyed such seasons of communion with God, and such a sense of the Divine presence, that I have been

almost overwhelmed with his goodness to me. My mind is calm in the prospect of death, having no fear in exchanging worlds, no-no fear."

The day following (though apparently in his usual health), he observed, "I feel such a thrill of joy pass through me at times, that I could say, Come Lord Jesus come quickly; my time cannot be far distant.'

On Tuesday, 2nd of June, an unexpected and violent attack laid him pros trate on a bed of suffering, at once removing all hope of his life being spared. Aware of it, his calmness and composnre remained unmoved: the messenger had been expected and was we comed.

The four following days of suffering were also days of triumphant joy. In seasons of consciousness, utterance was given to it in such expressions as, “Oh, that I could tell the world of a Saviour's love-it does appear to me so altogether lovely. Of His infinite mercy, He has permitted me to taste of the joys of His salvation, We which have believed do enter into rest, and blessed be His name; it is rest even here.'"

These lively hopes we owe

To Jesus' dying love.

On the morning of Thursday, the 4th, he said, "I have a sweet sense of the Divine favour-a complacency in all the Saviour said in his last hours.

"O, what shall I do my Saviour to praise? So faithful, so true, so plenteous in grace, So strong to deliver, so good to redeem, The weakest believer that hangs upon Him.' "O, what sacred delight I feel in view of this body dissolving! I am on the verge of the eternal world. I shall soon seethe King in His beauty, and behold the land that is far off.' What should I do now without an interest in my precious Saviour? I do love Him! What wonderful condescension! How overwhelming! How criminal to doubt His word, after such proofs of His love! 'O, Lamb of God, I fall before Thee, humbly trusting in Thy cross,' utterable love! I have life through Thy death-joy through Thy sorrow.'

Un

As each hour increased the probability of his time being short, joy and peace abounded: rising even, whilst enduring intense pain, to a state of ecstacy, and breaking into adoring expressions of gratitude. "Oh, my Saviour! how gracious, how merciful! He pours such a flood of light upon me, I cannot express it. All His dealings with me are so full

of mercy-all is light now. Is it possible I am about to exchange this world of sin and sorrow for one free from it? What shall I not gain ?

"Oh, the delights, the heavenly joys,

The glories of the place,

Where Jesus sheds the brightest beams
Of his o'erflowing grace.'

"I pray God, if I have injured or hurt anyone it may not darken their minds to the glory of true religion."

Not forgetful of the difficulties and temptations of the Christian whilst on earth, he would speak to those around him in words of suitable admonition and counsel, entreating them to live near to God-to beware of falling into mere nominal profession, of having the name of Christ, without love or desire to serve Him. When sympathy with his sufferings was expressed, he would say, 'Wherefore doth a living man complain-a man for the punishment of his sins ?" adding, "I have heaven within, notwithstanding all these pains: Christ is with me.' It was pleasing to perceive that even his wanderings were all about the work he had loved, and from which, in the later years of his life, no fear of bodily suffer ing had detained him. It is thus referred to in a manuscript found after his death:

"For several years I have had my thoughts almost constantly engaged in preparing subjects, in which I have found great delight, though often depressed with pain and difficulties I cannot describe." His happy spirit took its flight on Sabbath day, June 7th, at the exact time he usually left home for the evening service. But one week before he had expressed the hope of meeting his people on this evening at the table of the Lord.

His work was done. He had fought the good fight-had finished his course -had kept the faith. "He rests from his labours and his works do follow him." "The memory of the just is blessed."

The Rev. W. Welch, formerly of South Street, Exeter, and lately of Stonehouse, Devon, died November 10th, 1863, aged sixty-three.

Mr. John Freeman, of Maryland Point, Stratford, Essex, fell asleep in Jesus January 11th, 1864, in the 80th year of his age. Mr. Freemen was a frequent contributor to the "Baptist Magazine." His many excellent qualities lead us to hope that we shall shortly be able to furnish are readers with a memoir of his life.