chapter of John, he said, "I have been thinking what a nice view of heaven that is of our Lord's, My Father's house, my Father's house.'" And the last intelligible words he uttered, as if this sweet representation was still before his mind, were, 'My Father-my Father." Mr. Campion expressed a strong desire to be buried in the grave-yard adjoining the chapel where his soul found light and peace in Christ. His remains, therefore, were conveyed to Measham in a hearse, five carriages following with the mournThe coffin was borne from the hearse to the grave by four of his servants, amidst a large concourse of people. A funeral sermon was preached at Netherseal in the afternoon, from Rev. xiv. 13; and at Measham in the evening, from John xiv. 2. The congregations were large, and deeply affected. ers. MR. JOSEPH DOBSON, Birchcliff.—An aged pilgrim forms but few new acquaintances; as a child of earth he lives upon the past; as a child of God, he loves to contemplate the bright future that awaits him. Hence, when he loses an old companion, one with whom he has taken sweet counsel, the loss is long and deeply felt. It is, however, a considerable relief to his mind to believe that, as his friends on earth are diminished in number, just in the same proportion are his friends in heaven increased. Such are the sentiments of the aged pastor of the church at Birchcliff. The pall of death has hid from sight the faces of old and long-loved friends. Mr. Joseph Dobson of Hirst, near Hebden Bridge, was the son of pious parents, who were among the early and devoted friends of the General Baptists in this county. They had nine children, nearly the whole of whom, as they grew up to years of discretion, made choice of their father's God. The subject of this brief notice was accustomed from childhood to attend the preaching of the word at Birchcliff chapel. In the year 1808, having given decided evidences of conversion to God, he (together with an elder brother who still survives, and a sister already passed away to the spirit land,) was baptized by Mr. Hollinrake, and united to the church. Our friend continuing "steadfast in the Apostle's doctrine and fellowship," being "zealous for the Lord of Hosts," and abounding in the "fruits of the Spirit," was chosen by his brethren, in the year 1821, to sustain the honourable and important office of deacon. This office, it may be justly said, he "used well," being remarkably prompt, punctual, and persevering in the discharge of its varied duties. From early youth the departed had been engaged in the scholastic profession, and was consequently well qualified to act as "scribe" for the church, to which office he was early appointed. It may with propriety be said of him, that he had the cause of Christ at heart. He highly appreciated the means of grace, as might be seen in his regular and serious attention on both public and private occasions. His loss to the church will doubtless be long felt. In the Sabbath school, too, he took an untiring pleasure, having been connected with it during the whole of his christian life. He was also a decided General Baptist-a General Baptist from deep conviction, as well as early training. Though not in a position to contribute largely to the funds of our public institutions, yet in few persons had they a more months the health of the deceased had decided or cordial friend. For some been in a declining state, yet he continued his daily duties at his school until a few days previous to his death. During the eight days he was confined to his bed, the writer and other friends had opportunities of conversation with him. Though not in ecstasies of joy, he possessed that clear calm confidence which gives evidence of a strong and an "I am trusting," he intelligent faith. calmly said, "not to my own good deeds, but to the finished work of the great Redeemer, Jesus Christ." On the day preceding his death, he was seen by both the ministers of the church, and also by a brother deacon. We each thought his end not far distant, but neither of us were prepared for the announcement which, on the following day, Dec. 24th, 1853, was sorrowfully communicated from friend to friend, that brother Dobson was dead. On the 29th Dec., he was borne to his silent resting-place by the other six deacons, by each of whom he was much beloved. Suitable addresses were delivered on the occasion, and on the following Lord's-day, brother Lockwood improved the event to a large and attentive congregation, in a discourse founded upon Matt. XXV. 21. MR. WILLIAM WILCOCK, of Hebden Bridge, was born at Lower Crimsworth in 1793. His parents were not pious persons, and their children did not receive that religious culture in early life which is of so much importance in the formation of their future character. William therefore grew up to manhood without manifesting any concern for his soul's welfare. His residence being near the P. B. chapel at Wainsgate, he was accustomed to attend that place of worship. heaven in his eye, his life exemplified the spirit of the following lines, which he was fond of repeating: "Patient, the appointed race to run, To find the New Jerusalem." After a short struggle his happy spirit was borne away from the labours of earth to the rest of heaven. On the 22nd Nov., his body was interred at Wainsgate, when an address was delivered by brother Lock wood, founded on the words of the Patriwill I wait, until my change come." arch, "All the days of my appointed time Though the sweet season of youth was gone without improvement, yet through divine mercy, the word preached" came with power; his eyes were opened--his heart renewed-and giving himself first to God and then to his people, he was bap-reaved family, his numerous friends, and May the event be sanctified to the betized at the above place, April 29, 1827. the church of God. In about three years from this time he, in company with his wife and three other persons, withdrew from Wainsgate, and sought admission into the G. B. church at Birchcliff. From this period he continued a worthy, useful, and much respected member of the Birchcliff church. For many years he was a very acceptable leader of an experience meeting, and superintendent of the Sabbath-school. Being a man of refined feelings and tender sensibilities, and withal a father of a numerous family, his observations and addresses in both capacities were generally seasoned with grace, and expressed with so much affectionate earnestness as frequently to impress the minds of both old and young. As a parent, it will be sufficient to state that his children most keenly feel his loss at the hour of family prayer. For some years the health of our friend had not been good, but generally the Sabbath found him in his accustomed seat in the sanctuary. In the early part of Nov., 1853, being thrown out of employment, together with three of his children, by the stoppage of a mill, his mind appeared much depressed. The disease from which he had long suffered taking advantage of this circumstance, gave fearful and speedy evidence of its power over his already shattered constitution. In conversation during his brief illness it was pleasing to observe how faith had triumphed over nature, and how the religion of Christ adapts itself to all the exigencies of human life; for while the mind was burthened with care, and the body the subject of disease, the heart of love was still confiding in the rich mercy of God, through Jesus Christ our Lord. "His hand the good man fastens in the skies, And bids earth roll, nor feels her idle whirl." Having Christ formed in his heart, and MRS. ELEANOR CLIFTON, of Gedney, died Feb. 7th, 1854, aged 83. She, with her husband, was baptized March 29, 1813. She had been an esteemed member of the Baptist church, Sutton St. James, about forty years. As a wife, mother, friend, and christian, much might be said very honourable to our departed friend. Her amiable disposition, humility of mind, uniform love of peace, earnestness in the cause of Christ, liberality, and regular attendance on the services of God's house, were eminently exemplary. Through deafness she heard but little of the preached word, yet up to the last month of her pilgrimage she occupied her place in the sanctuary. One of the family would find the text, give her the Bible, and having read it she meditated on the word, and had many gracious refreshing seasons to her soul while thus waiting on her God. About a fortnight before her lamented death she was visited by an affliction which deprived her of speech, but the use of her faculties was mercifully continued. The devotion of her spirit appeared very remarkable; and as her minister stood by her bed-side during her last moments on earth, his mind was deeply impressed with the Scripture term, "Fell asleep." She had been a widow about 27 years, and by the blessing of God was enabled to conduct the business of her farm with honour to herself and comfort to her large family. Her death was improved to a crowded congregation, on Lord's-day, Feb. 19, from "Behold I die, but God shall be with you."-Gen. xlviii. 21. May her family of twelve children, six of whom are members of G.B. churches, all be followers of those who through faith and patience inherit the promises. G. MADDEYS. CORRESPONDENCE. INSURANCE FOR MINISTERS' LIVES. To the Churches in connection with the | I feel convinced that a great deal more Yorkshire Conference. DEAR BRETHREN,-I was requested at the last Conference, as the mover of a motion relative to the Insurance of the lives of our pens pastors, to write a few thoughts on the subject. I am fully aware more able might have been employed; and only do I accede to the request hoping that the subject may be taken up by others better calculated to make impressions, not only in the Yorkshire district but throughout the denomination. I have felt sorry that all attempts have failed hitherto to establish a fund for infirm and decayed ministers, or relief for the widows and families of our pastors. I think we, as christians, ought not to be careless on this point. The object is good. Professing christians that are men of business believe it to be their duty to take care of the providential mercies of God; and after the toil of years to enjoy the fruit of their labours; and further, to make the best provision that is in their power, in the event of death, for their wives and families; and I think it is but Scriptural and right that we should also take care of those who labour and spend their strength amongst us in proclaiming the word of Divine truth. It is a fact worthy of notice that by far the greatest number of our ministers in this district have scarcely sufficient to meet the claims of their families; most certainly they are not able to subscribe to missionary societies, public or private charities, nay even to what is most looked for-to relieve the wants and necessities of their own flocks; and which to many I am persuaded is a source of great pain. The average amount of salaries given to the ministers in this district is not more than 60 or 70 pounds a year; and fourteen out of the seventeen ministers are married, and some have large families. It is with the great est economy and the private assistance of friends, that they barely maintain a respectable position. If we cannot as churches give our pas tors salaries which would enable them to make some little provision for their bereft widows and children, I think we ought at once, and without delay, to adopt some plan which would effectually be the means of much good. Do we believe that through the "preached word" God has designed that the world shall be evangelized? then let us try to set the ambassadors of God free-as much as lies in our power-from the cares and anxieties of this world, and good will be done. I would suggest then that each church effect on the life of its pastor a policy of £100. The great benefit which would be derived at so trifling a cost, I feel convinced, need only to be understood, and it will meet with a hearty response. I have made a calculation from the Minutes of the last Association, and find in the sixteen churches who have pastors in the Yorkshire Conference (Burnley included) there are 2216 members, which by would insure the very handsome sum of the yearly payment of 6d each member, £1700, or £100 on the life of each minister; that is including two pastors for Birchcliffe. This is the outside; I have no doubt with care in choosing good offices for Insurances, it might be even less than sixpence each. But suppose it be thought best that each church insure (or rather find the means for such a purpose) the life of its own pastor, it would not cost more than one shilling each member (with one single exception) and some not threepence each member annually. is not a single church in the district who Now I feel disposed to think that there would not gladly embrace the opportunity of showing in this tangible way, the esteem and respect they bear towards their pastor, by yearly placing at his disposal the means to sustain his policy. It will afford proof of your love to him for his work's sake. And should the Divine Being in his allwise providence call him to himself, his disconsolate widow and fatherless children would offer at a throne of grace their united prayers for blessings to rest upon you. And be assured that God looks with a propitious eye on those that care for the widow and the fatherless. Much more could be said in favour of the object; neverto say that "faith" is wanting. I beg to theless I doubt not but some will be ready differ with any who may think thus, having through life experienced the truth, that willing to help themselves, besides having the Divine Being helps them who are abundant Scripture testimony that "faith without works is dead." I shall be glad if any good arises from the very imperfect thoughts thus written, other on some decided step being taken in and I hope we shall soon congratulate each the right direction. Praying that God will prosper and bless every pure motive and action, I remain, respectfully, JAMES RHODES. AN AFFECTIONATE HINT RESPECTING THE PUBLIC WORSHIP OF ALMIGHTY GOD. "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together."-Hebrews x. 25. INTELLIGENCE. THE LINCOLNSHIRE CONFERENCE was held at March, on Thursday, March 16, 1854. In the morning, after reading and prayer by the Secretary, brother Jones, senior, gave an interesting exposition of the former part of Romans x. In the afternoon, the Reports from the churches were read, from which it appeared that twenty-one had been baptized since the last Conference, and that fourteen remained candidates for baptism. Resolved:— 1. That a committee be appointed to reconsider the whole of the case from Whittlesea. 2. That this committee consist of brethren Smith, Jones, and E. Booth of March; Chamberlain, J. B. Pike, Lyon, and R. Wherry. 3. That these brethren be requested to meet at Whittlesea, on the day appointed for the next Conference, at ten o'clock, a.m. 4. That, a case having been received from Gedney Hill, in reference to the renewal of the Trust deeds, connected with the chapel and property there, brethren Smith of March, and Wherry of Wisbech, be requested to attend to this matter. 5. That we would advise the friends at Gedney Hill to request the neighbouring churches to render them ministerial aid until the next Conference. 6. That brother Lyon be requested to act with Mr. Rose in carrying out the suggestions received from Fenstanton. 7. That the next Conference be held at Whittlesea, on Thursday, June 8th; that the usual morning service be omitted on that day; and that brother Chamberlain of Fleet be appointed to preach in the evening. Brother Jones of Spalding preached in the evening, from 1 John iii. 2. The attendance at all the services was unusually large. T. BARRASS, Sec. THE CHESHIRE CONFERENCE will meet at Stoke, on Good Friday next, the 14th of April. Mr. Pedley is appointed and expected to preach in the forenoon. R. STOCKS, Sec. ANNIVERSARIES. STALYBRIDGE.—On Sunday, March 12th, 1854, two excellent sermons were preached by our respected minister, the Rev. John Sutcliffe, after each collections were made towards liquidating the debt on the premises. In going up to the House of God in the morning we felt our hearts troubled, VOL. 1,-N. S. M simply because provisions were so dear, and we were afraid lest our friends could not, as heretofore, give with their wonted liberality. But thanks be to God our trouble was turned into joy, for our collections amounted to the very handsome sum of £59 4s. 7d. So much for the voluntary system. Yes, let each give what he thinks proper in his circumstances, and that cheerfully, not like persons who grudge to part with it, or wish to be excused, for the infinitely bountiful God takes pleasure in them who give with an open hand and heart, and cheerfully improves every opportunity of making their condition comfortable. W. SUTCLIFFE, PETERBOROUGH.- On Lord's-day, Feb. 26, 1854, the anniversary services in connection with the General Baptist chapel, Wes Gate, Peterborough, were held, when the Rev. J. C. Jones, M.A. of Spalding, preached to encouraging congregations. On the day following a public tea was provided, (the trays being furnished gratuitously) after which addresses were delivered by the Revds. J. B. Pike, (Bourne) H. Downes, S. Shorten, and A. Murray; the minister of the place presided, and the Rev. W. Pentney closed with prayer. The attendance was good, and the entire amount realized was rather more than £20. Our debt is still very heavy and we are anxious for its further reduction. BAPTISMS. WIRKSWORTH.-On Lord's-day, Dec. 25th, 1853, after an impressive sermon by our pastor, on Acts x. 47, the ordinance of believers' baptism was administered to two candidates; and in the afternoon they received the right hand of christian fellowship and sat down at the Lord's-table. W. S. COVENTRY.-On Lord's-day, Oct. 2, 1853, five persons put on Christ by baptism, and on Lord's-day, Jan. 1, 1854, five others openly professed the Saviour; one other was prevented owning his Lord by affliction. Three out of the ten persons thus added to the church are from the Sabbath school, which gives promise of introducing a number more to the fold of Jesus. We rejoice to add that the healthy and prosperous state of our Sabbath school warrants an effort to erect larger and more convenient school-rooms, towards which object more than £50 have been promised, unsolicited; and we hope soon to commence this much needed and truly delightful task. E. S. |