to leave us without evidence that it is unchanged in all respects, except in power, and that the power is only needed for it to be as despotic as in the darkest ages!

The King of Prussia has given his answer to the deputation that waited on him some weeks since at Cologne, in reference to the persecution of Baptists in his territories. The reply is addressed by the representative of the king to Sir Culling Eardley, and it reiterates the assurances of good-will given by the sovereign himself to the deputation, informing them that the king had ordered a searching investigation to be made with respect to the acts of intolerance which have been notified to him, and adding that his Majesty had instructed bis representatives at the Courts of Electoral Hesse, Mecklenberg-Schwerin, Saxe - Meiningen, and Schaumburge-Lippe, to call the attention of those governments to the acts of persecution committed in their several states, and to urge the adoption of measures for insuring religious liberty to Baptist christians. So far, this reply is satisfactory. We trust the promised measures will be carried out. No doubt the reply furnishes a proof of the value of these deputations, and shows the importance of an interest being maintained by British christians in the condition of their brethren abroad.

NORTHERN BAPTIST EDUCATION SOCIETY.

On Wednesday afternoon, Dec. 19th, a special general meeting of the members of this society was held in Westgate chapel, Bradford. It was convened in order that the subscribers might decide as to the propriety or otherwise of extending the basis of the educational institution known as Horton College, near Bradford, so as to carry on a portion of its operations in connexion with Owen's College, Manchester. The Rev. Dr. Acworth, president of Horton college, occupied the chair, and there were present the Rev. Charles Daniel, theological tutor, and the Rev. S. G. Green, classical and mathematical tutor; the Rev. Henry Dowson, hon. sec.; Mr. T. Aked, and Mr. W. Stead, treasurers; Mr. R. Coward, of Liverpool; Mr. Henry Kelsall, of Rochdale; &c. The president briefly explained the objects of the meeting; after which the Rev. H. Dowson read the propositions previously agreed to by the committee for the adoption of the general subscribers. These propositions were to the effect that, with a view to secure the highest possible literary attainments and advantages, a part of the institution should be removed to Manchester, and placed in connexion with Owen's college, the theological training still to be conducted by the society. The premises at Horton were proposed to he retained, for the twofold purpose of providing an English theological education for those students whose tastes or previous acquirements may not lead them to seek classical erudition; and, also, that elementary instruction may be given in languages to those students who may manifest a fair classical proficiency

prior to their adaptation for the Manchester institution. A calculation had been made of the necessary outlay, which was estimated at £9,000, with an annual income of £1,700 to provide for the maintenance of thirtyfive or forty students, at the two branches of the institution. These recommendations were unanimously agreed to. The names of a number of subscribers, nominated to act in the negotiation for the purchase of suitable premises in or near Manchester, in the invitation and examination of plans and estimates, and in the obtainment of the necessary funds, were then read by the secretary, and agreed to. We are glad to say that fully one-half the requisite funds have already been obtained. It is the present intention of the committee to carry on the Manchester branch of the institution,which will have the great benefit of the literary advantages of Owen's college, where the professorships, endowed at the munificent cost of £100,000, are filled by some of the most learned and accomplished men, with two tutors in the theological, Biblical, and ecclesiastical departments, and the Horton branch with one theological tutor and an assistant.

NEWARK, NOTTS.

On Monday, December 31st, the Rev. R. Bayly, late of Horton College, Bradford, was ordained to the pastoral office over the Baptist church meeting in Hawton-road chapel, Newark. In the morning, after reading the Scriptures and prayer by the Rev. J. Hallatt (Independent), the Rev. James Edwards, of Nottingham, delivered the introductory discourse, on "The Constitution, Principles, and Officers of a New Testament Church;" after which the usual questions were proposed by the Rev. GeorgePope, of Collingham, who also offered the ordination prayer. An impressive charge was then given to the pastor by the Rev. Dr. Acworth, president of Horton College; who also closed the service by prayer. At two o'clock, ministerial and other brethren, about forty-five in number, partook of dinner at an adjoining inn, when kind and fraternal addresses were delivered by Dr. Acworth, the Rev. Francis Wills, of London, &c. In the afternoon, at five o'clock, a public tea meeting was held in the Corn Exchange, when 250 friends of various denominations attended. In the evening, a sermon of great practical excellence was preached by the Rev. F. Wills, Mr. Bayly's former pastor. Mr. Bayly then closed the solemn service by prayer. On the previous Sabbath, sermons were preached by the Rev. Dr. Acworth and Mr. Wills, when collections were made towards removing the debt incurred by the late improvements in the chapel. In the afternoon of that day the Lord's Supper was administered, the three ministers taking part in the service.

HENEAGE-STREET CHAPEL, BIRMINGHAM. On Wednesday evening, Dec. 26th, the annual meeting of tho young people attending the pastor's Sabbath and week evening classes was held in the lecture-room of the

above chapel. Mr. Taylor, who occupied the chair, stated that his Sabbath Bible Classes were attended by about 200 young people, the average attendance being 110 in the morning, and 150 in the afternoon. During the year thirty-two young people connected with the class have been added to the church, and a considerable number are at present in an interesting state of mind; the course of visitation was varied, but the great object ever kept in view was the glory of God in the conversion of souls. The young men's class for secular instruction has been well attended during the year, and the progress made very encouraging. Grammar, composition, geography, and English history were the principal branches of instruction, but many of the young men were engaged in the study of the New Testament in Greek, and had made considerable progress. At the close of his report, Mr. Taylor presented six of the young men with prizes for essays on the "Claims of the present age on the energies and influence of young men." Interesting addresses were delivered by the Rev. J. A. James, T. Swan, and R. M'Master, and the evening was profitably spent.

PLYMOUTH.

On Tuesday, January 1st, the Rev. G. Short, B.A., late of Foulsham, was recognised as co-pastor with the Rev. Samuel Nicholson, of the church at George-street, Plymouth. The charge to the younger pastor was given by the Rev. Joseph Angus, D.D., president of Stepney college, from 2 Thess. iii. 1, and the address to the church by the Rev. Thomas Horton, of DevenFort, from Eph. iii. 11-13. In the morning, the senior pastor delivered an address, in which he referred to the gracious dealings of God with the church,-especially during the thirty-four years he had ministered to them,-it being thirty-four years that same day since he first preached to them, though he was not ordained till some months after. The brethren Noble, Overbury, Jukes, Pyer, and Jones, took part in the devotional services; and with the church it appeared to be a day of great joy and gladness. We most sincerely sympathise with our esteemed brother Nicholson, under the affliction with which it has pleased God to visit him, and pray that he may be restored and spared many years, and that, in conjunction with our younger brother, he may labour happily and successfully in the important sphere which our Great Lord and Master has assigned them.

NEWPORT, MONMOUTHSHIRE.

On Thursday evening, January 3rd, the members of the Baptist church meeting in Commercial Street, Newport, Monmouthshire, beld their annual tea meeting in the school-room adjoining the chapel. After tea, the respected pastor of the church, the Rev. W. Aitcheson, took the chair, and prayer was offered by Mr. R. C. Slade, one of the deacons. In the course of the evening

it was announced that about £47 were due to the Treasurer. This fact was no sooner made known, than, with an alacrity and cheerfulness which could not be surpassed, a subscription list was opened, and the greater portion of the amount obtained. A conversation ensued as to the propriety of taking steps for providing increased accommodation for the large and increasing congregation attending, by the erection of a new and commodious chapel on the site of the present building. A committee was appointed to take the matter into consideration, and to report progress at the next monthly meeting. The prospects of the church are most gratifying. The chapel is generally crowded on the Sabbath evening, and many go away unable to find accommodation. A short time since five persons were added to the church by baptism, and others are now waiting as candidates for that divine ordinance.

LONDON BAPTIST ASSOCIATION.

The twenty-second annual meeting of this body was held at New Park Street Chapel, on Wednesday, January 9th. The Rev. James Harcourt preached in the afternoon, from Acts i. 8: "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you." In the evening, at six o'clock, a public meeting was held, at which the letters from the churches were read, and addresses delivered by the chairman, the Rev. Charles Stovel, the Rev. Joshua Russell, and the Rev. Jonathan George. The letters from the churches were, on the whole, of an encouraging nature, and the clear increase in twenty reporting churches was 207 members, or rather more than ten per church. It is but right to state, however, that this large rate of increase is owing chiefly to the numerous additions to the church at New Park Street, under the pastoral care of the Rev. C. H. Spurgeon, whose ministry has been greatly blessed in the conversion of sinners. Brethren B. Williams, F. Wills, and J. Bowles, conducted the devotional exercises.

GRAVESEND.

A numerous company of christian friends of all religious denominations assembled on Thursday evening, January 3rd, to welcome the Rev. James Swinbourn, late of Edenbridge, who has lately accepted the unanimous invitation of the church at Windmill-street chapel, to become pastor, in union with the Rev. E. S. Pryce, one of the Secretaries of the Liberation Society. About 250 persons having partaken of tea in the school-room, a public service was held in the chapel. Prayer was offered by the Rev. J. T. Butcher, of Northfleet, when Mr. Pryce briefly stated the circumstances which led to Mr. Swinbourn's coming among them. Mr. Swinbourn gave an explanation of his views and wishes in the prospect of labouring as a christian minister in the town. The Rev. C. H. Hosken, of Crayford, having offered prayer, the Rev. J. Russell, of Chatham, gave a very able address on the advantages of the christian

ministry, and the special character it should possess, and was followed by the Rev. J. Hall, of Chatham. The Rev. J. Hearnshaw, Wesleyan minister, uttered a few sentences of hearty and fraternal sympathy with the church and its united pastors, and concluded by prayer on their behalf.

BLOCKLEY, WORCESTERSHIRE.

Special services in connexion with the settlement of the Rev. J. Wassall as pastor of this church were held on Thursday, the 17th inst. A sermon was preached in the afternoon by the Rev. W. Allen, of Oxford, from Romans xv. 30: "Now I beseech you," &c. After this service, a tea meeting was held in the British School-room adjoining the chapel, at which, notwithstanding the very inclement weather, about 150 persons were present. In the evening there was a jubilee meeting in the chapel, which was numerously attended. Mr. R. B. Belcher, of Blockley, occupied the chair. In his opening remarks he referred to the very pleasing circumstances under which they had invited the minister to the pastorate. The church had been perfectly unanimous in their invitation, and there was not, he believed, a member in the church who had a discordant feeling towards another. He expressed, in the name of the church, the cordial feeling with which they celebrated that evening the settlement of their pastor among them. The meeting was afterwards addressed by the Rev. J. Wassall, pastor of the church, the Rev. W. Brook, of Bourton-on-theWater, the Rev. T. Spiller, of Camden, and the Rev. W. Allen, of Oxford.

WEST-BROMWICH.

On Wednesday evening, December 26th, the friends at Bethel Baptist Chapel, Dartmouth Street, West-Bromwich, assembled and partook of tea in their newly-erected Sunday school room, for the purpose of recognising the Rev. James Sneath, late of Cradley, who has recently become the minister of the place. The room was tastefully decorated with evergreens for the occasion. After tea, the Revs. W. Cuthbertson and W. Creed (Independents), R. Nightingale (Baptist), and others, addressed the meeting. The meeting closed about nine o'clock, when the friends separated, apparently delighted and interested by the meeting, and stimulated to future activity in the cause of God.

WOOLWICH.

On Lord's-day, the 6th January, 1856, services were held in the Lecture-Hall, Nelson Street, Woolwich, preparatory to the formation of a New Baptist church there. The promoters of this movement have recently withdrawn from the church at Queen Street, Woolwich, in consequence of a disagreement in the recent choice of a pastor. The Rev. J. Cox, formerly pastor of the church at Queen Street, preached at the Lecture-Hall morning and evening. About two hundred persons were in attendance, and after the evening service the

Lord's-supper was administered by Mr. Cox to thirty-eight persons.

MINISTERIAL CHANGES.

The Rev. Mr. Prisk has accepted the invitation of the church at Redruth to become its pastor, and entered upon his labours on Lord's-day, Dec. 30th.-The Rev. Josephus Judson, late of Horton College, having accepted the unanimous invitation of the Baptist church, Wellington, Salop, entered upon his duties on the first Lord's-day in the year.-The Rev. E. Merriman has resigned the pastorate of the Baptist church at Ilfracombe, and will close his ministry there on March 23rd.-The Rev. J. Cozens has resigned the pastorate of the church, Little Loudon, and terminates his labours the 25th of February.The Rev. John Hanson, after ten and a half years of devoted labour with the Baptist church at Milnsbridge, has felt it to be his duty to resign his pastoral connection with that people, and terminated his labours among them on the last Lord's-day of January. The Rev. J. Hanson, of Hallgreen, Haworth, has resigned the pastorate of the church there, having accepted the invitation of the church at Idle.-The Rev. James Martin, A.B., late of Stockport, has accepted the pastorate of the Baptist church meeting in Charlotte Chapel, Edinburgh. The Rev. Philip G. Scorey, having accepted an invitation to the pastorate of the church at King-Stanley, Gloucestershire, entered on his stated labours there on Jan. 6th.-The Rev. J. Ewence, of Longparish, Hants, has accepted the invitation of the church in Raglan, Monmouthshire, and entered upon his labours the last Sabbath in January.-The Rev. A. Dyson of Rotherham, has given notice to the church that he shall terminate his labours there on the 8th of April. The Rev. Samuel Davies, of Wallingford, Berks, has accepted the invitation to the pastorate of the church at Burton-upon-Trent, and entered on his new charge on the third Sabbath in January.-The Rev. G. Taylor (late of Bishop Burton) has accepted the invitation of the Baptist church worship ing in Hagar Street, Derby, and commenced his labours December 15th.

Obituary.

THE REV. JOHN BRANCH.

We regret to record the death of the Rev. John Branch, pastor of the Baptist church meeting in Church Street Chapel, Blackfriars. This melancholy event took place somewhat suddenly. On Sunday, Jan. 6th, Mr. Branch preached as usual, and apparently in his usual health. During the subsequent week, he employed himself with wonted activity in benevolent pursuits. On the Saturday, at noon, he breathed his last; death being ascribed to asthma connected with disease of the heart, from which he was known to suffer. He had not attained his fiftieth year. Mr. Branch was greatly esteemed, and his loss will be generally felt.