church with which he is nominally united, as if its order, its honour, its integrity, its discipline were nothing? This should not be tolerated. If he has not the courtesy to withdraw his name from those he has deserted; his name, after due warning, should be removed from its place. For

6. the tolerance of these irregularities, is only evil in its influence on the church. It leads the members to hold church duties lightly, it grieves the minds of the friends of order and propriety, it induces those who are without to consider the church as either timid or treacherous to all principles of order, and it paralyzes the church itself in relation to other acts of discipline.

7. There is still another question which though not strictly proposed by the querist, seems partly involved in his enquiry, and that is, supposing a person does not forsake the public worship of the church, but voluntarily, and without any justifiable cause, absents himself from the Lord'stable; should he be allowed to continue as a member of the church? I reply to this, he does not 'walk orderly;' and if after 'admonition' and' warning' he so continues to absent himself, it is proper also to 'withdraw from' him. The reason is obvious. His absence from this sacred ordinance, is an indication of indifference to religion and to the commandment of Christ, or of such a sense of unfitness as to his state and character as renders him selfcondemned in so doing, or of the indulgence of some deep-seated alienation from some of the members of the church. Let such an one be visited and admonished. If his 'offence' can be removed by christian means; well: he will return to his duty and privilege. If his absence arise from morbid sensibility, or misconception, he may, perhaps, be instructed and encouraged. But if it arise from a manifest want of piety, and there appears no prospect of correction and amendment, let his membership be discontinued. There will require prudence and firmness in these cases, but it is clearly improper and pernicious to retain as members, persons who do not 'fill up their places,' or give evidence

that they are the servants and disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ. Some churches have as a rule something like this, That a voluntary and unexplained absence from the Lord's table, or from the house of God for a given period, say six, nine, or twelve months, shall be regarded as equivalent to a withdrawment, and treat it accordingly; but whether or not this can be sustained by the letter of Scripture, the practice of conniving at such delinquencies from year to year, can lead to no good either as to the individual himself or the Church of God.

I am afraid I have been already too prolix in my remarks, and will therefore only add, that all "the work of Christ," especially the discipline of his church, should be attended to in "the Spirit of Christ," and that caution, kindness, and proper patience and deliberation should attend every act which involves even the nominal union of any person with a christian church.

In conclusion, let me just remark, that I have not a personal acquaintance with either of the querists, and that my remarks are therefore made in perfect ignorance of any individual cases which might have induced them to present their enquiries.

Hoping, Mr. Editor, that both W. H. and W. D. R. will appreciate my motives in writing, if they do not concur in my opinion, I am, yours &c., A PASTOR.

Queries.

MR. EDITOR,-If you, or some other judicious friend, will be kind enough to answer the following question through the medium of the Repository, it will much oblige.

Is it right, and in accordance with Scripture doctrine, to exclude a member from a Church on account of scandalous reports being in circulation; the church neither investigating the case or giving him an opportunity of speaking his own evidence: not even one member being able to bring forward any more proof than hear say?

L. H. A.

MARIA, the beloved wife of Mr. Joseph Robertshaw, of Thornton, departed this life August 3rd, 1850, in the 47th year of her age. She became a member of the General Baptist Church, Queenshead, in 1831, and continued to adorn her profession till the Saviour came and received her to himself. There was nothing of a very

exciting nature in the life of the late Mrs. Robertshaw, but there was that which justly secured general respect. The terms in which she uniformly spoke of herself were modest and humble, but her life left the impression upon all who really knew her, that she was a sincere christian.

The advice given by Peter to wives, 1 Pet.

iii. 3, 4, was practically regarded by our departed sister. Her adorning did not consist in plaiting the hair, and wearing of gold or of putting on of apparel, but in that which is not corruptible, even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit which is in the sight of God of great price. Her placid smiling countenance, her soft words and gentle bearing, clearly showed that she had acquired great command over her own spirit, and possessed to a happy extent, equanimity of mind. Nor was she less conspicuous for her charity. She seemed really to love pious persons, whether they belonged to her own or other denominations. In commendation of such she would frequently speak; and a friend who had been on terms of intimacy with the family for many years remarks, 'I never heard her use a back biting or reproachful expression in my life.' Reader, can this be said of thee?

As a neighbour, she was remarkably peaceful. She did not wander about from house to house as a tatler, or as a busy body in other persons' matters, speaking things which she ought not.

As a wife, she devoted herself to the interests of the family, and so guided the house as to give no occasion to the adversary to speak reproachfully. She would at times charge herself with being too worldlyminded; and no doubt she felt that there was just cause for so doing, still the world was not her portion.

In our efforts for the reduction of our chapel debt she felt a lively interest. The following will show this. Before our annual tea-meeting in 1849, she called upon the writer to obtain a number of tickets, and without solicitation, presented to him a liberal donation. Seeing that it was as

large again as that given the year before, he remarked, 'You are doing better this year than last.' 'Yes,' she said, 'trade is better now, you know, and we should do a little more for the cause of Christ.' The writer was struck with this reply at the time, and has often thought of it since. Oh! that all christians felt and acted thus! then in these years of plenty many a chapel debt would be swept away.

The conjugal relation which subsisted between the departed and her bereaved husband, yielded the happiest fruits, and seemed to promise much for future years; but ah! how often are we disappointed when we build upon the future. The happiest unions we form on earth will be dissolved, and perhaps at the time when they are yielding us the greatest delight.

The serious illness of the departed was short, being little more than a week in duration, and of such a nature as to prevent much conversation. Her mind, however appeared to be calm. She felt indeed the pain of separation, but meekly submitted to the will of God. To a friend she spoke of her removal as being only the leaving of one home for another. Thus resting on the sure foundation she bid adieu to those she loved on earth to be for ever with the Lord.

Her remains were buried in a family grave in part of the G. B. chapel, Queenshead, and her death was improved by Mr. Hardy, on Lord's-day, Aug. 18th, from John ii. 23, Thy brother shall rise again.' Thus lived and died an estimable sister. May this brief notice aid us in remembering what she once was, and stimulate us to follow her so far as she followed her Lord. R. H. Q.

The numbers reported as having been baptized were, Boston 2, Coningsby 4, Fleet and Holbeach 3, Gosberton 4, Gedney Hill 3, Louth 2, March 1, Whittlesea 3. It is matter for regret that from several of the churches no reports were received.

At the meeting for business in the afternoon the following resolutions were passed:

A letter having been received from brother Pike, formerly of Wisbech, tender

1. That we accept brother Pike's resignation, sincerely thanking him for his past efficient services, regretting the cause of his removal, and praying for his speedy restoration to health.

2. That brother Barrass of Holbeach be requested to act as Secretary pro. tem.

3. That brother Barrass be entrusted with the care of the Home Mission Minute book until the next Conference.

4. That having heard of the formation of a North Lincolnshire Conference, the secretary write to Mr. J. C. Smith of Kirton-in-Lindsey, requesting that we may be officially informed of its existence and limits.

6. That at the next Conference there be a consultation as to the means of reviving true religion in our churches.

The next Conference to be held at Spalding, on Thursday, December 4th. Brother Chamberlain of Fleet to preach in the morning; or in case of failure, brother Billings of Gedney Hill.

In the evening brother Barrass preached from John iii. 16.

T. BARRASS, Sec. pro. tem.

THE NORTH DERBYSHIRE CONFERENCE assembled, according to appointment, at Kirkby Woodhouse, on Monday, Aug. 4, 1851, at two o'clock in the afternoon.

This Conference, (the only one held at this ancient church for a great many years past) was well attended by friends from the immediate locality; but thinly by persons from a distance. This is much to be regretted, as the writer is of opinion that the occasional visitation of many of our small, and almost isolated churches would be greatly beneficial. After singing and prayer, the reports from the churches were read, when it appeared that nine had been baptized since the last conference, and that seven were waiting for that ordinance. Several churches did not report. Upon the whole the state of the churches was encouraging.

Resolved, 1. That the church at Sutton Ashfield, agreeable to their request, be received into this Conference.

2. That the churches at Arnold and Hucknall Torkard, as they do not come within the range of the Midland, be invited to join this Conference.

A letter was received at this Conference from the church in Eldon-street, Sheffield, asking for help for their infant cause at Chesterfield. Resolved, that we do not feel in a position to render them any assistance, either pecuniary or otherwise, at present.

A free discussion was entered into as to the desirablenesss and practicability of a number of small churches, locally connected, uniting for the support of a regular minister, who should itinerate among them.

Resolved, That we think such an organization both practicable and desirable, and need not necessarily destroy the independence of the individual churches. The Secretary of this meeting was recommended to confer with several churches in this neighbourhood with a view to carry out the foregoing resolution. At the close of this meeting several brethren engaged in prayer.

In the evening brother Gray of Ripley preached on the following subject:-'The

The next Conference to be held at Ripley, on Christmas day, Dec. 25th, to commence at two o'clock, p. m., and a revival meeting in the evening,

W. MASON, Sec. Pro. tem.

THE NORTH LINCOLNSHIRE CONFERENCE held its first meeting at Lincoln, Sep. 9th. The attendance was good, considering that several friends were engaged in the harvest field. Brother Fogg of Retford preached in the morning.

Statistics. The church at Epworth, &c., is without a minister, but the places are supplied by local bretheren, upon the plan of a Wesleyan Circuit. They have baptized nine since May 20th, and have one candinate. They have baptized one at Gamston and Retford. Congregations much as usual. At Killingholm they have baptized one. Congregations not numerous. Kirton-in-Lindsey, improving. Lincoln, very low; congregations small. Misterton the prospect is very discouraging, At Tuxford, a new church, they have three candidates, and are thinking of having a new chapel

At

Resolved, 1. That the new church at Tuxford be cordially received into this conference.

2. That where there is a minister, he preside at all future meetings of this conference; and where there is not, the conference appoint its own chairman.

3. Messrs, Wright, Smith, and Ward, were requested to prepare, and get printed, 100 circulars for convening the conference.

4. That the subscriptions to the conference fund be considered due at the Spring meeting; and that the churches be affectionately requested to forward them by their representatives.

5. That the conference supply Lincoln for one year; and that the churches he earnestly requested to allow their ministers to visit Lincoln once a month.

6. That the Ministers visit Lincoln in the following order, viz.,-Mr. Fogg, Oct. 19th; Mr. Crooks, Nov. 16th; Mr. Hurt, of Misterton, Dec. 21st; Mr. Smith, on the third Sabbath in Jan. 1852; Mr. Watson the third Sabbath in Feb.; Mr. Fogg, the third in March; and Mr. Crooks the third in April.

7. That the next Conference be held at Killingholm; Mr. J. C. Smith of Kirton to preach in the morning: or in case of failure, Mr. Wright of Lincoln.

An interesting public meeting was held in the evening. Mr. Watson of Butterwick commenced with reading and prayer, after which addresses were delivered by Messrs. Crooks, Ward, and Fogg, upon the importance of spreading the Redeemer's cause around.

J. C. SMITH, Sec.

MIDLAND CONFERENCE.-This Conference assembled at Ashby, on Tuesday, Sep. 16th, 1851. Mr. Cotton of Barton opened the morning service with reading the Word of God, and prayer; and Mr. Lawton of Wimes. would preached an excellent sermon, from 1 Pet. i. 12, 'Which things the angels desire to look into.' The Conference was exceed ingly well attended, and from the reports from the churches there appeared to have been 117 baptized since the last meeting, and 43 remained as candidates. The friends assembled for business at a quarter past two, and Mr. Staples implored the divine blessing. In reply to the enquiry from the trustees of the Coventry chapel it was resolved,-1 That this Conference rejoices to hear of the promising position of the church at Coventry; and with regard to the case now presented by brethren Lewitt and Chapman, on behalf of the trustees, recommends the Barton district of the Home Mission, to pay immediate attention to those pecuniary matters for which they have become responsible. But the Conference thinks it most advisable that the debt of interest should be paid, and recommends that an immediate effort be made for that purpose.

2. Resolved, That a committee be appointed to take into consideration the propriety of commencing a new interest in the large town of Birmingham, in a situation sufficiently remote from Lombard Street.

3. That the following brethren compose that committee:-Winks of Leicester, Hunter of Nottingham, Goadby of Loughborough, Pike of Derby, Cheatle of Birmingham, Crofts of Wolvey, Bennett of Sawley, and Kenney of

Burton.

Next Conference to be held at Carley Street, Leicester, on the last Tuesday in December, Mr. Pike of Derby to preach.

Mr. Hunter of Nottingham preached in the evening. J. STADDON, Sec.

ORDINATIONS, &c

THE REV. ISAAC PRESTON, late of the G. B. Academy, Leicester, having served the G. B. Church at Ashby and Packington with acceptance during twelve months, received the unanimous call of the church to become their pastor, and was solemnly designated to that office on Monday, Sep. 15th, 1851. The morning service was conducted at Packington. Rev. J. Derry of Barton read select portions of Scripture, and offered the general prayer. Rev. T. Stevenson of Leicester delivered a brief introductory discourse, in which, after alluding to his own views on the practice of 'ordination,' he referred to the interest connected with the settlement of a christian minister. Rev. J. Staddon of Quorndon proposed a series of questions to the church, as to their views and motives in giving Mr. Pres.

ton a call to become their pastor, which were answered with great propriety by one of the deacons, Mr. Thomas Thirlby, on behalf of the church, and sustained by the suffrage of the members. A few questions were also proposed to Mr. Preston as to his conversion, call to the ministry, doctrines, &c. The replies to these questions were listened to with deep interest and satisfaction by the ministers and friends present: after which Rev. J. G. Pike of Derby offered a most solemn and appropriate prayer for the youthful pastor, and was accompanied in the imposition of hands by several ministers then present. Rev. J. Wallis of Leicester delivered an affec

tionate charge to Mr. Preston from Rom. i. 9, and concluded the solemn service with prayer. The number of ministers present was unusually large. The hymns were given out by Revds. Messrs. Nightingale of Castle Donington, Lawton of Wimes would, Kenney of Burton, Chapman, and Salisbury of Longford. The chapel was crowded, and the service continued for rather more than two and a half hours. Repeated allusions were made to the lengthened ministry of the first pastor of this church; and among the audience were marked a few venerable persons who were present at his ordination service, on the same spot, in the year 1808. Only one minister is now living who was then engaged, Rev. G. Cheatle of Birmingham, and repeated regrets were expressed in private, that that estimable brother had not been invited to take part on this occasion.

In the evening, the service was conducted at Ashby, where the attendance was very large. Mr. Kenney of Burton read the Scriptures and prayed, and Rev. J. Goadby of Loughborough, delivered a lengthened and impressive discourse to the church on their duties towards their pastor, and to each other, and concluded the services by imploring the divine blessing on the engagements of the day, and on both pastor and people. Mr. Preston gave out the hymns. The services during the day were not only well attended, but the interest of them was sustained throughout. May the great Head of the church grant his blessing to pastor and people!

REV. DAWSON BURNS.-We understand

that the G. B. church at Salford, has given Mr. D. Burns an invitation to settle with them as their minister; and that his stated labours commenced on Lord's-day, Sep. 21st. May the blessing of the Lord rest on him.

ANNIVERSARIES.

MALTBY.-We had our annual tea meeting on the 7th ult. It was one of the largest gatherings of the kind we ever had. Alford, and our branch at Louth, supplied us with many dear friends. The following brethren

very kindly gave their valuable aid in speaking: Rev J. T. Barker (Indep.) Topham, (Wesleyan,) and Nutsey and Catley (Baptists.) Our esteemed pastor, the Rev. J. Kiddall, presided. Many of our friends spent the former part of the day upon the sea shore at Mablethorp, a beautiful retreat about three miles from Maltby S. N.

LEEDS, Call Lane.-On Lord's day, Aug. 17th, and Monday, Sep 1st, we held our first anniversary in connexion with this new interest. On the Lord's-day very eloquent and impressive sermons were preached; in the morning by the Rev G. W. Conder. minister of Belgrave chapel, and successor to the late Rev. Dr. Hamilton, from John vii. 46.— 'Never man spake like this man;. and in the evening by the Rev. W. Guest, minister of Queen Street Chapel, from Acts xxx. 6.— 'For David, after he had served his own generation by the will of God, fell asleep.' The congregations were good, the chapel in the evening being full.

་

On the Monday evening a large number of our friends assembled in the chapel, and amidst all that was social and happy par. took of the cup which cheers but not inebriates,' which was provided gratuitously by the ladies of the church and congregation. After tea the meeting was addressed by our minister, the Rev. J. Horsefield of Bradford, and J. Taylor of Leicester College, and by several other ministers and friends in the town, who warmly congratulated both minister and friends on this auspicious occasion. A very good feeling pervaded the meeting. The proceeds of the services amounted to upwards of £40. The friends retired greatly encouraged. A. H.

KIRKBY-WOODHOUSE.-We have had a debt on our chapel at Kirkby for some time, which has been a source of uneasiness to some of our friends, and whose wish was to remove that burden altogether; accordingly an effort has been made, and subscriptions entered into. After sermons by our esteemed brother, the Rev. H. Hunter of Nottingham, we have paid off £20, leaving only a few pounds which we hope to discharge shortly. In addition to the payment we have made towards reducing our debt, we have purchased lamps for our chapel at Kirkby, and thoroughly cleaned, painted, and made other necessary improvements, all of which has been promptly discharged, much to the joy of all who are concerned for the comfort as well as the prosperity of God's people and the great end of the blessed gospel. May a spirit of improvement characterize each individual united with this ancient church. May unity and peace be the desire of every one professing to love the Lord Jesus and desirous of seeing his cause prosper amongst us. T. ELLIS.

OPENINGS, &c.

BURNLEY. Opening of New School Rooms. -On Saturday afternoon, Sep. 13, 1851, a tea party, attended by upwards of 250 persons, was held in the above new school room, on the occasion of its being opened for public worship until the new chapel is finished. The room will accommodate about 500, exclusive of two class rooms, or vestries, which are to be fitted up for the convenience of baptismal occasions, &c. After tea a public meeting was held, when addresses were delivered by Revds. J. Batey, R. D. Wilson (Indep.) E. Darke, (Wesleyan) Messrs. J. Greenwood, W. Jackson, S. Lord, and others. On Sunday, 14th, two sermons were preached, by Mr. Batey, from Neh. x. 39, and 1 Cor. ii. 2. The collections, exclusive of the proceeds of the tea meeting, were upwards of £40.

J. B. S.

NEW LENTON, near Nottingham.· On Lord's-day, Aug. 17th, the General Baptist Chapel in this village was re opened, after cleaning and repairs, with two useful sermons by our esteemed pastor, Mr. Hunter, and our young friend Mr. T. C. Bishop from the G. B. College, Leicester. The collections amounted to £7 16s. 24d; and £5 17s. was realized by proceeds of tea on Monday, Aug. 18th; and by special effort after tea, £16 4s. 10žd., making a total of £29 18s. 1d, which is a trifle more than sufficient to defray the expence of cleaning, &c. We thank God and take courage.

BAPTISMS.

J. R..

LEICESTER, Archdeacon-Lane-July 6th, seven persons were baptized upon a profession of faith in the Lord Jesus Christ, thereby confessing their death unto sin, and their resurrection to newness of life. It is a pleasing reflection that two of the six male candidates are sons of officers in the church. May this be the beginning of a harvest from this field. All have been in the school, either as scholars or teachers. After an appropriate address, the right hand of fellow