sociation; and numbers more than usual were induced to attend the house of prayer.

M. Soulier, of Paris, proposed the vote of thanks to the Auxiliary Secieties, and referred to his late journey in the south, where he met with much encouragement, in beholding the progress of the different Auxiliary Societies, hay ing attended many of their assemblies. M. Lagarde, Pastor of Orleans, a very aged Minister, supported this vote. Addressing the assembly, as he observed, for the first time, he claimed their indulgence in advocating the cause of the Bible Society.

M. Bros de Peuchredon, Vice-President of the Montpellier Bible Society, acknowledged the vote of thanks to the Auxiliaries.

M. Le Baron de Staël moved thanks to the British and Foreign Bible Society; and said he had the pleasure of introducing to the assembly the Rev. J. W. Cunningham, the Brother-in-law of Mr. Buxton, that great advocate of Negro emancipation, to whose exertions in the cause of truth so many are indebted. After bearing further testimony to the indefatigable zeal of Mr. Buxton, Mr. de Staël referred to the principles of the British and Foreign Bible Society, uniting all sects and parties in this great and glorious work. If we were now called to appear before the bar of God, it would not be asked, from whence we came, or under whose temporal banners we fought; but whether religion is found in our hearts, and practised in our lives.

Mr. Cunningham thanked Mr. de Staël, and in the name of the British and Foreign Bible Society, acknowledged the cordial respect paid by the Paris Bible Society. Mr. Cunningham referred to the question lately brought before the Committee in London respecting the Apocrypha. He declared that he was among those who were opposed to the late resolutions, passed by the Committee, and to the opinions of the Scottish Bible Societies; but for the sake of peace he yielded and he believed that the controversy would not destroy the bond of union in the parent Society, nor produce those evils which some dreaded. He believed that the difference of opinion would not diminish the zeal of the members. Mr. Cunningham concluded by saying, that we are much indebted to France in this great cause, and particularly to the exertions of the learned Professor Keiffer.

The Rev. Charles Cook wished to observe, that many of the denomination to which he belonged were of Mr. Cunningham's opinion, and that he joined with him in believing, that the difference of opinion which had prevailed, might be held in consistency with the unity of the Spirit and the bond of peace.

M. Le Baron de Pelet proposed the vote of thanks to the President, and remarked,

it was not designed to flatter vanity, but conveyed the genuine sentiments of their minds.

The Marquis de Jaucourt then addressed the assembly, referring to the progress of the Institution, both in and out of France. He said that the Society was united as a family; he trusted we should see greater prosperity.

M. Monod, jun., prayed with peculiar. fervour, that the Lord would pour out his Spirit, and crown the efforts of man with his blessing.

CHRISTIAN MORALS SOCIETY. — On. Thursday, April 13th, was held the Fifth Anniversary of the Christian Morals Society: "La Societé de la Morale Chrétienne." It took place at Rue de Clery. The platform was filled with Nobility and Gentry of different sects and parties, uniting with one heart in the means of producing moral good, adopted by this Society. The large hall was completely filled with a very respectable assembly of Ladies and Gentlemen; a deep interest was excited in the minds of the auditory, as their countenances showed. Many sighed over human misery, and as many rejoiced in the prospect of its alleviation and removal. This interesting meeting will not be soon forgotten.

The Duke of Broglie, a Peer of the realm, and President of the Society, took the Chair, and in a short speech addressed the meeting; remarking that they were met as one family, to produce one great good among men; some of their undertakings prosper, others do not succeed so well; but, on the whole, they had cause of great encouragement. The President referred to one instance of a Swiss workman seuding 350 francs, to be employed in some specific object. It was proposed to purchase the liberty of a prisoner, or to aid some Greek; but it was finally resolved to offer a prize for some object of charity.

M. Partarrieu Lafosse, one of the Secretaries, then rose, and gave the assembly an account of the proceedings of the Committee during the last year. He did not read the Report, as is usual; but addressed the meeting in a strain of powerful eloquence. He considered it his duty to show, by a general view, the nature of the Society; and to give au account of its proceedings. He took a view of civilization, of the progress of arts and sciences, and of morals; and then of Christian morals. This Society has many Committees: one for the publication of its monthly journal; one for charity and benevolence; one for the abolition of the Slave Trade; one for prisons; one for the abolition of gambling, and lotteries; one of young people, for providing for orphans; one to aid the Greek Refugees in France; and others, to determine prizes to be offered for given subjects. During the last year, each of

these Committees have pursued their work, some with greater success than others; and if success has not crowned their efforts to the extent that could be desired, yet there is ground for encouragement and perseverance. "Attendons," said M. Partarrieu Lafosse,"let us wait, let us expect that success will come." M. Aspert has effected much in France, in the improvement of Prison Discipline; and one of the most powerful means used is the distribution of religious books. Among others, two subjects were felt by the assembly, when referred to by the speaker: 1. The case of the suffering Greeks; 2. The death of General Foy, who was a Member of this Society. A silent tear was shed over the miseries of the former, and at the remembrance of the latter. General Foy was the champion of civil and religious liberty, the friend of the distressed, a pattern to the world as a citizen, and as a man. When the feelings of the assembly subsided,

M. Bourgeois moved the printing of the Report, and that it be sent to all the members of the Society, to call their attention to the importance of the work in which they were occupied, and to show the necessity of indefatigable exertion in their undertaking.

M. Jules Alisse gave an account of the Funds; the receipts amount to about 15,000 francs, and the expenditure to about 11,000.

M. Guizot then rose, to make his report on the prize given for the best Essay on the Liberty of Religious Worship. M. de Lambrechts, Member of the House of Deputies, left by his will 2,000 francs to the Institute of France, to found a prize for the best work in favour of religious liberty. The royal sanction not being given to the bequest, it fell to his residuary legatee, M. D'Outrepont, who gave it to the Christian Morals Society, to be disposed of as it was originally intended. Twenty-nine competitors have been found for this prize, of different religious persuasions; Roman Catholics and Protestants; of different ranks in society, and of different views and thinking. Many of the Essays were very excellent; but the prize has been adjudged to No. 18, bearing this motto, "Where the spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty." This Essay was written by M. Alexander Viner, of the Canton of Vaud, Switzerland, Professor at Basle. M. Guizot went very minutely into the examination of the work, and pointed out its excellencies, and some of its defects; but the Committee were of one mind, that this essay was entitled to the prize. Praise was also due to M. de Pont, author of No. 14; and to the authors of Nos. 15, 19, 22, 11, 28. The Essay of M. Viner, as well as M. Guizot's speech, will soon be published.

M. Le Baron de Staël gave the Report of the Committee on the best means of

VOL. V. Third Series, JUNE,

abolishing the Slave-Trade. Mr. de Staël, in the course of the year, had visited Nantes, a port where vessels are built and fitted out expressly for this horrible traffic. He had been on board some of these vessels; had made the most particular inquiries respecting the treatment of the slaves; in addition to which, he had purchased at Nantes some irons which were destined to bind the slaves, and chains by which they were to be held. The rattling of these irons and chains produced a blood-chilling effect on the assembly, as they were shown from the platform. Instruments of torture were also shown; and M. de Staël said he could name some persons concerned in this iniquitous system, and expose them to public view; but that he should decline. The announcement, that His Royal Highness the Dauphin of France has promised his aid to suppress this trade was hailed with peculiar satisfaction. Two Essays had been presented to the Society during the last year on this subject; and the Committee wished particularly to call the attention of the public to the prize of 1,500 francs for an Essay on its gradual abolition. M. de Staël referred to the conduct of the inhabitants of Barbadoes to Mr. Shrewsbury, the Wesleyan Minister and spoke of the strong prejudices which exist in some other places against the Gospel; but he trusted these prejudices would eventually give way. The acknowledging of the independence of St. Domingo, was an important event in the last year, and would aid, he trusted, the abolition of the traffic in slaves.

The Rev. Mark Wilks said, he was somewhat indisposed, but he had received directions from the ladies to execute two commissions. To get engraven a print of a negro woman with her child sitting under a tree; and to get a like picture printed on some of those bags which ladies usually carry in their hands. He had done so, and now produced the picture and the bag, and informed the meeting, that these articles were sold at the door, and at the Society's House, Rue Taranne. Mr. Wilks said he was glad that the names of certain individuals engaged in this traffic were not mentioned; but it was a salutary threat of M. de Staël. The names of the negroes who were to be sold were published in the Gazette, with even the brands upon their bodies described; and on the ground of retaliation, they might publish the names of dealers in this wicked traffic. But their Society was a Christian Society, and exercised forbearance and love; yet if it was ever absolutely necessary, they could exhibit those names to the world. Mr. Wilks rejoiced that day to behold civil and religious liberty linked together. Their Report would go forth to the world, showing the importance of liberty for the worship of God, and liberty from the slavery of man ; these two go hand in hand, liberty of 1826. 2 G

conscience, and liberty as the citizens of the state, and these are the blessings of Christianity.

M. Guizot then stated, that 1,500 francs would be given as a prize, for the best Essay on the causes of national hatred, and the best means of abolishing it.

The President then dissolved the meeting.

MISSIONARY SOCIETY. - On Friday, April 14th, was held the Third Anniversary of the Missionary Society, for sending the Gospel among the Heathen. The Meeting was begun in the usual place, in the Sunday-School Room of the Protestant Church, Rue St. Honore; but the place was too small to contain the assembly, and the meeting was therefore continued in the church itself. M. Professor Stapfer presided. M. Pastor Marron, President of the Paris Consistory, began the Meeting with prayer; and after the Chairman had addressed the assembly, M. Pastor Monod, jun., read the Report of the Proceedings of the Committee during the last year; which took a view of the progress of Missions generally through the world, and of the progress of the Paris Missionary Society in particular. Many Auxiliary Societies had been added in the course of the year, and many young men had been received at the Mission-House, to prepare for their work they are pursuing their studies under the direction of M. Gallard, Director of the Establishment, who was detained from attending the meeting by the death of his son.

Mr. Waddington, the Treasurer, then gave an account of the finances. During the last year, more than 33,000 francs had been received; and more than 14,000 expended leaving a balance in hand; but considering the numerous calls for Missionaries, there was a necessity to increase rather than diminish their exertions. Among other means, Mr. W. recommended Missionary Boxes, to be placed in conspicuous places, in the dwellings of the friends to Evangelical Mis

sions.

M. Pastor Monod, sen., one of the Auditors, stated that the task imposed on him was easily accomplished, as the Report spoke for itself, and showed the character of the Society. He rejoiced greatly, in viewing the progress of this Society, and could bear a testimony to the zeal of those who had the charge of conducting its affairs.

M. Guizot then rose, and addressed the assembly with his usual eloquence; contending that publicity alone could show the nature and object of these Institutions, as well as the prosperity that attends them. He moved, on this ground, the printing and circulation of the Report. By this means, they called on the public to examine their proceedings, which would bear investigation. The

object of the Missionary Society was, to publish the Gospel to the ends of the earth; to carry thus far evangelical and moral light among the people sitting in darkness, and the shadow of death. M. G. defended the Protestant Mission against some objections, and drew a picture of a Mission-family, leaving their country, and residing among the Heathen, persevering in their work; and with the blessing of God, what a happy change has been effected in many instances by such an undertaking: moral and religious benefits of the most important kind being produced.

M. Pastor Monod, jun., read the Report of the Ladies' Society; which is conducted by a Committee of twenty Ladies, as well as many Collectors. During the last year, the sum raised was 1,416 francs; collected chiefly by weekly pence. Letters from different parts of France showed, that similar Associations were established, and produced much benefit, both to the Collectors and the Society.

M. Pastor Pomier, of Rouen, bore testimony to this; as in his church many striking instances had occurred, of individuals making sacrifices for the cause of Christianity. He moved the thanks of the Meeting to the Ladies' Association, and was seconded by the Rev. Mark Wilks; who addressed the Meeting, and urged that the work was but just begun, and demanded much perseverance: yet that work itself afforded satisfaction to those engaged in it, since it conduced to the happiness of their fellow-creatures. He commended the Ladies for having a Committee of sewing work, devoting the profits to the Mission-Fund. He viewed with joy the signs of the times, and the change of the times, in this country.

M. Henry Lutteroth proposed the vote of thanks to the Foreign Missionary Societies, with which they held correspondence; and entered fully into the question of Missionary labours among the Heathen. He dwelt particularly on five points: 1. The study of languages; 2. Geographical knowledge; 3. Study of the manners,prejudices,and religious feelings of the natives; 4. The establishment of Christian Churches; 5. The blood shed in the cause itself. He was attached to all the Missionary Societies.

The Rev. J. W. Cunningham, of the Church of England, spoke of the happy unanimity that at present prevailed in England among the different Missionary Societies; and of the beneficial effects that have resulted from the united efforts of these institutions. He referred to the praiseworthy exertions of all the Missionary Societies; but belonging, as he did, to the Church of England, it became him more particularly to dwell on their Missionary Society. At first, only fifty Ministers joined this Society: now they were more than 1,400. At first only 2501. was collected; it increased to 10,000%. 3

;

and the last year's receipts amounted to above 40,000. Among the many delightful views he might take of the progress of truth, he referred to Schools and stated that, by different Missionary Societies, about 50,000 children were under Christian instruction at present in India.

Mr. Cook, from the South of France, read a letter he had received from Mr. Temple, of Malta, which contained another letter from Mr. Pliuy Fisk, Missionary in Palestine, written only two days before his death, expressing his confidence in his Saviour, and his hope of eternal glory. Mr. Cook, who had travelled in Syria, with Mr. King, sent

SHETLAND

Letter from the Rev. John Lewis to the Rev. Adam Clarke, LL.D.

Jan. 11, 1826.

I SEND you a short account of John Johnson, late of Effirth, in Sandsting, a member of our Society, who lately died in the Lord. He was born in Clousta, in Eithsting parish, on the mainland of Shetland. From his earliest infancy he was left to the sole care of his mother, as his father enlisted for a soldier, and left his native isle for Ireland, where by the grace and providence of God, he was brought to know a Saviour's love," through the ministry of the Methodists. When John was a boy, little care was taken of his soul; and as he grew towards manhood, he gave strong proofs that his carnal mind was at enmity with God. As soon as he was able, he went to the Greenland whale-fishery, where he net with many who were eminently wicked, and whose manners he copied; so that he soon became as wicked as they. The winters he always spent in Shetland, during which, having little to do, he soon became the leader of all his equals in vice and folly. He was tall, active, and handsome; and being possessed of a very ingenious mind, he soon became master of whatever he took in hand: and he did every thing with all his might. Having chosen his master, he was indefatigable in his service, and greatly promoted his cause: he went on in a course of sin that appeared black even to the eyes of sinners, until his marriage; wheu, contrary to all expectation, he took a final farewell of all his former associates, and assumed quite another character, which he preserved from that day. He was no more seen with his former companions in their revels; but directed his whole attention to the interest of his family,

out first by the Paris Society, stated the particulars of the Schools Mr. King had established, which he saw in a state of prosperity.

M. Pastor Soulier, of Anduze, also addressed the meeting for a short time. The Chairman then proposed some change in the Committee, and addressed the young men of the Mission-House, destined to go abroad to preach the Gospel to the Heathen.

M. Jeagle, Pastor of the Lutheran Church, concluded the Meeting with prayer,

A Collection was made at this Meeting, by Members of the Committee, from seat

to scat.

ISLANDS.

He

Yet he was all this time a stranger to himself, and to God. He continued to attend the Greenland fishery every summer, and to spend the winters with his family, until he caught a severe cold in Greenland, which rendered him unable to do any thing either at sea or on shore. But the winter before this happened, the Lord was pleased to awaken him by our preaching. became deeply concerned for the salvation of his soul; and on his return to Shetland, I admittted him on trial into our Society. From this time his health declined apace; but, although his "outward man perished, his inward man was renewed day by day." In March last, he became unable to attend the means of grace, and was wholly confined to his house. Our friends from Gruting went occasionally to hold Prayer-meetings there, which proved to him times of refreshing. During his affliction I had several opportunities of visiting him, and always found him in a state of resignation to the will of God, and in general happy in his soul. As to temporal things, he was far from being comfortable, having been unable to earn one penny for many months. In the spring his wife was confined; their child did not live four months; and during all this time they were poor, and had not the means of procuring any of the comforts that many deem necessary on such occasions. Yet in this state his gratitude was equal to any thing I ever witnessed. For the smallest trifle he was thankful, and acknowledged all as coming from God to an unworthy sinner. The following is an extract of a letter he wrote to me: I insert it here, because it shows the state of his mind at the time. "Effirth, May 20th, 1825. Dear Sir, my soul has longed very much for you all the time I have been ill, O Sir, the Lord only

knows how near I have been to the grave; but I have to magnify and bless the great and eternal Jehovah, who hath not only brought me from the grave, but has redeemed my soul by his holy blood from the second death. O Sir, I can tell you, with comfort, that when I was nearest to death, then death was no terror to me; for which I bless the Lord. I can tell you likewise, that once when I thought of death, every joint in my body did shake and tremble. O Sir, I should be happy to speak with you. I can tell you that, by the grace of God, I have my treasure in heaven, where my soul shall through all eternity dwell. May the Lord ever keep me from falling. Amen and Amen. I remain, with the help of God, your friend and well-wisher for ever, John Johnson." In a few days after receiving this letter I went to see him. He was reduced to a mere skeleton, his cough was very severe, his soul was happy; I preached in his house, to as many of his neighbours as came in; and, after preaching, baptized his child. His heart was full, and his language was nothing but praise. To say that he had learned contentment is not enough; he had learned more for in the midst of deep poverty and severe affliction he acknowledged them as mercies. On the 25th of June he wrote to me again: from his letter I extract the following: "Dear and faithful friend, I take this opportunity of letting you know how the case stands with both my soul and body. O my soul's wellwisher, help me to give praise to God the Saviour, that ever he was pleased to call me, a poor sinner, from darkness into his marvellous light. O Sir! this is the sweetest summer that my soul ever enjoyed. My body is very weak and corrupted, and fast decaying. My soul would rejoice to see you. Christ came to save the chief of sinners. Blessed be God; praised be God. Amen, and Amen. I am your friend, through Jesus, for ever, John Johnson." From this time he became gradually weaker and weaker, and his soul evidently ripened for heaven. For many months his death was daily expected; but, contrary to all expectation, he was spared until December. He daily exhorted his wife and his mother to seek the Lord by prayer; and taught them, as well as he could, the way to Jesus:

and to all who came in his way he said something about their souls. The night before he died he said to his wife, as she was helping him from the fire to his bed, "You have had much trouble with me, but this is the last time that you will ever have to help me; for I shall never get out of bed again. I shall soon be in heaven with Jesus. I long to be in heaven with Jesus: but, O my Lord, give me patience." The difficulty of breathing was very great, and he said, "I long to be in heaven: but, Lord, give me patience." About nine o'clock his wife called in a young man from the next house. On his entering the room, John said, "Rasmy, is that you? You have been very kind to me during my sickness. I thank you for all your kindness, and hope that the Lord will repay you for all you have done for me: you see me dying; but I am not afraid. O pray to the Almighty to make you ready.' He asked his wife, if this were not the Sabbath; she said, "Yes." On hearing this, he said, "I thought so; this will be the happiest Sabbath Í ever saw; for I shall end it in heaven with Jesus." He now desired that the children should be brought in. He spoke to each of them as his strength would admit, but being quite exhausted, he rested a little, and making a mighty effort, he lifted up his dying hauds, and said, “ God Almighty bless you all!" He again spoke to his wife and his mother, about being resigned to the will of God, and to pray to the Almighty to make them ready for death. In the course of the evening he said, "Jesus Christ is in this place: I feel him very near to me." About eight o'clock his wife asked him if he wanted any thing; and, by putting her ear close to his face, she heard him for the last time, say, "Nothing but heaven and Jesus." In about half an hour the spirit took its flight. Thus died John Johnson, Dec. 11, 1825, in the thirtieth year of his age. This is the fifth Methodist that I know of, who has died in the Lord, in Shetland; and should we be instrumental of no more good, the thought that these souls have been conducted to glory, will amply pay us for our services, and our friends in England for the expense they have been at in supporting this Mission.

JOHN LEWIS.