Chapter I: HAVE found, by a strict and diligent observation, that a due (2)

Alfred then gave a full detail of his adventure.

"So then," said the old lady who had decided the question about the money, "while we were indulging in foolish conjectures, and idly jesting about this worthy man, he was engaged in the pious task of teaching young boys to read God's holy Word, and the eye of that God was upon us all. My dear young friends, this is a lesson which I trust you will never forget. I see by your looks that it has produced its effect, and given birth to serious thoughts in your hearts. God has caused your inconsiderate frolic to turn out well, and I suspect that this will be a happy day for the pupils of Gervais. The orphans will not want protectors. Now let us go to supper. Our friend Alfred must be hungry after his ride, and he has well earned his meal."

These words, together with the circumstances that gave rise to them, made a deep and salutary impression upon the hearers. The supper passed cheerfully, and the conversation turned upon what could best be done for the charcoal burner and the poor orphans. Many plans were proposed, and at last one was suggested which met with general approbation.

The young men, in consequence, all visited the mountain forest and the hut, which, under their exertions and superintendence, soon disappeared, and a comfortable chalet rose in its place, in which Gervais continued for many summers to pursue his useful labours, and more than one or two successive generations of boys owed their teaching to him, and their establishment in the world to the care of the patrons whom Alfred's visit had, by God's mercy, raised up for them.

FROM DARKNESS TO LIGHT.

In a conversation with the late Richard de Courcy, John Berridge observed that he had, for many years, been preaching up self, but not Christ Jesus the Lord:--

I was a length of time in Arminian fetters. John and Charles Wesley got me into their cradle, and the devil kept rocking; but the Holy Spirit, in a most remarkable manner, delivered me from the sleep of sin by slaying the legality of my heart. I used to lament the unprofitableness of my preaching, and though I was a dealer in fire and brimstone, I could make no impression on my hearers.

One day, my man Thomas was sawing a sturdy piece of oak, and, as I was standing by him, he threw down his saw, and turning to me, said, "Master, I must give this job up; it is so knotty." I took up the saw, and said, "Tom, let me try"; and to work I went, and, being of muscular strength, I soon overcame the difficulty.

It occurred to me, when leaving the field, that my preaching resembled Tom's sawing, and these words were impressed on my mind--"Who art thou, O great mountain? before Zerubbabel thou shalt become a plain." I returned to my chamber, and poured out my heart to the Lord. A conviction arose in my mind that the work that God alone can perform I looked for the creature to produce. On reflection, I found the drift of my preaching for twenty years had been to tell the sinner to put the key into the lock of the door, so as to open it. I never thought of my Beloved putting His hand by the hole of the door, nor of applying to Him who has the keys of David, who "openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth."

On the Sunday following, I took my text from Isaiah--"Ye also made a ditch between two walls, for the water of the old pool; but ye have not looked unto the Maker thereof, neither had respect unto Him."

From that time God the Holy Ghost has given me better tools for my workmanship. In addressing those whose hearts are unrenewed and unchanged, I make no propositions or calls. I cry aloud, and lift up my voice, and show my people their transgressions and their sins. I then turn from the unconverted, and implore my Master to take the work in hand, to convince of sin, and to lead them to Christ. With uplifted eyes and outstretched arms I cry, "Lay hold of these rebels, O Lord, as the angel did of lingering Lot, and overcome them by Thy omnipotent power, so as to lay down their arms to come in, that Thy house may be filled." John Berridge can do nothing but say, "Awake, O arm of the Lord!" This is my province; a step further I cannot, I dare not, go.

For the last twelve years the Lord has, in a most wonderful manner, displayed the riches of His grace in giving me innumerable seals to my ministry, both in town and country--trophies of mercy, as studs in the Mediatorial crown of my dear Redeemer.

OLD EVERTON.

[Oh, that there were more such preachers in the present day!]

When bold, presumptuous men stand up,
And fain would make believe
That they are teachers sent of God,
And thus poor souls deceive,

They should, by every God-taught soul,
Be faithfully withstood,
If aught they bring to us as truth
But Jesus and His blood.

Such men as these the Word declares
Shall come, and shall deceive;
But sinners, truly born of God,
Will not such men receive.

If possible, we know they would
Deceive Thine own elect;
But, bless Thy precious name, dear Lord,
Thou wilt Thine own protect.

How solemn is the thought to me--
Such men may think they're right,
Yet their profession will, if left,
End in eternal night!

"Depart, ye cursed!" will be said
By lips that cannot lie;
"Since you have hated Me and Mine,
Your doom is now to die.

"You see, though now it is too late,
The oil-less lamp won't do;
The door against you now is shut;
There is no passing through."

My soul, reflect! How stands the case
With me, a helpless sinner?
I cannot hope to win the race;
But Jesus is my Winner.

I never should have sought to Thee,
Dear Lord, Thou knowest well,
If Thou hadst not first called me,
And plucked my feet from hell.

B. W.

BIBLE SUBJECTS FOR EACH SUNDAY IN FEBRUARY.

Feb. 5. Commit to memory Ruth ii. 7. Feb. 12. Commit to memory Ruth ii. 8. Feb. 19. Commit to memory Ruth ii. 9. Feb. 26. Commit to memory Ruth ii. 10.

PUT heart in your work, whatever it is. If it be the lowliest, simplest little task, it will be ennobled by your doing it well and cheerfully, and taking real pleasure in it.

"THE DAY OF SMALL THINGS."

(ZECHARIAH iv. 10.)

The second temple was much smaller than, and very inferior to, the first, and from it were wanting the ark, the Shechinah glory, the sacred fire, and the Urim and Thummim. Hence we read that, when it was erected and dedicated, the older men that had seen the former temple wept (Ezra iii. 12). Compared with that, the second temple saw but a "day of small things" (Hag. ii. 3).

And thus do we sometimes speak of the days of childhood and youth, and rightly so. Young people are small in stature and little in ability. Their minds are not much cultivated at present, their faculties undeveloped. Their views of things are narrow and circumscribed. They have seen and know but little of the world, or, indeed, of anything at all. But children are not to be despised on that account. We who are older must not think depreciatingly of them, nor should the young depreciate themselves--their abilities, their time, their opportunities. Do not waste your precious moments, for yours is a golden age, which will quickly pass away, and can never return.

Do not imagine that you are too young to exert any influence over others for good or harm. You may, and do, influence not only your companions, but many older people also. As children and youths are old enough to sin, they are old enough also to be impressed by the Spirit of God--yea, even savingly converted, if God so will it.

Not long ago, a very little boy, dying, was heard to say, "Oh, Lord Jesus, please make room for a little boy!" and I doubt not, his prayer was as real and as acceptable to God as was that of the dying malefactor, "Lord, remember me," &c. Another dear little fellow said, "If I ever get to heaven, I'll go straight up to Jesus, throw my arms around His neck, and say, 'I'm come! I'm come!'"

Very little things are not without their importance or value. The earth is nourished all summer by tiny dew-drops. The greatest mountains, even huge Chimilari, towering five and a half miles into the clouds, and all the other peaks in the Himalaya and Andes ranges, are formed of tiny molecules of earthy matter.

Take a lesson from the coral formations. These are the work of a very little creature called a _polype_, or sea-anemone. Recent research has led to the discovery of much that is highly interesting respecting these little creatures. One polype, fixing its minute body to the rocky bottom of the sea, discharges a chalky secretion, which gradually grows up a branched trunk. The end of each branch is terminated by another polype; and thus it divides and multiplies itself, until a huge mass of red coral is formed. The more common white coral is similarly produced.

Beware of what are called "little sins." Do not think them mere trifles. Bad in themselves, they likewise extend and grow into habits. These, once acquired, will hold you down with the force of a mighty chain.

Of late years vine-stocks have been imported from America into France and Italy. Upon these a tiny insect, called _phylloxera_, has been found--so small that thirty-three of them placed lengthwise would not measure more than an inch; and yet so destructive have these tiny things proved, and so rapidly have they been known to spread, that they have been the destruction of more than a million acres of vines.

One has well observed that "a great sin committed once shows where the devil has been; but petty sins, nourished into a habit, show where the devil lives."

One of the discoveries of modern medical science is, that the disease known as cholera may be produced by a microscopic insect (the _Conina Bacillus_) being taken into the stomach inadvertently with our food. This minute creature propagates with enormous rapidity in the blood, until that terrible malady is the result. Thus many great things are developed from the very smallest--not only great evils, but great blessings also.

In doing good, we must not despise "the day of small things." The beginnings, though imperfect and weak, are not without their own peculiar value, and ultimately they lead on to excellence.

Travellers on the continent are often struck by the contrast exhibited between two paintings which are shown in the museum at Rotterdam. The one is exceedingly poor--a mere daub. The most enthusiastic connoisseur cannot discover in it any mark of genius. The other painting is a grand work of art, almost priceless in value. Yet, strange to say, the same painter executed both--the celebrated Rembrandt. The first illustrates the commencement of his career as an artist; the other is a masterpiece, while many years of earnest, patient toil intervened.

There must be a beginning to all things, and many dear Sabbath scholars have been instrumental of good to their parents and friends. I will mention one instance of this, selected from scores which have come under notice at different times.

In a miserable home there once resided a drunken father, with one girl, his only child. Of course, he took no particular interest in her welfare, either body or soul. But some kind friend got her to attend a Sabbath School. There she was brought to know and love the Saviour, and often during the week, while attending to the house, she was known to sing the sweet hymns she had learned. This was her only comfort, for her father's bad ways made her life hard.

One day, when she was thus occupied, her father was in another room, sleeping off his drunkenness. On awaking, he heard the little maid singing--

"There is a happy land,
Far, far away."

The Lord was pleased to use these words for another awakening. The grace of God touched his heart, and he said to himself, "Yes, it must be far away for her, poor thing; it cannot be here with me." That thought came from God. It melted his frozen heart, brought him to his knees, caused him to utter strong cries for mercy, led him to ask his little daughter to explain the way of salvation, and ultimately he was enabled to rejoice in pardoning mercy.

Dear young Gleaners, may the Lord thus be pleased to bless the reading of the LITTLE GLEANER, and the instruction imparted in the Sabbath School, first to your own soul, and then make you a similarly honoured instrument of good to others.

A. E. REALFF.

_Dunstable._

GOD never wrought miracles to convince atheism, because His ordinary works convince it.

A SUNNY, happy face naturally, is worth a world of recipes upon cheerfulness. Only let one possessing it come into a room where there are a number of melancholy souls, and see how soon the magnetic influence begins to relax the lines of care around the mouth and eyes of the burdened ones, and the light of forgotten smiles to illumine the dark faces! The very breath of summer has blown through the room, bringing the breath of meadow sweets on its wings.

HOW A GREAT MISTAKE WAS DISCOVERED.

A TRUE INCIDENT.

My grandmother was always looked upon by those who knew her as a good Churchwoman, a dutiful wife, an affectionate mother, and a good neighbour. She attended the services and partook of the Sacrament regularly, visited the sick, gave alms to the poor, and was generally regarded as a very religious, upright, consistent, and exemplary person. Yet, notwithstanding this outward goodness, her mind was not at rest. Her religion yielded no joy, her service brought no satisfaction. Nor could it be otherwise, for, instead of it being the spontaneous outflow of a heart constrained by love, it was as a task imposed--a duty performed in the hope of pleasing God, and meriting His favour, and in this way obtaining peace and rest to her soul.

Poor grandmother! These were "deadly doings"; but she knew it not, for her eyes were blinded by the god of this world (Satan), and her unsuccessful attempts to procure peace by these means often left her depressed in spirit and cast down in mind. But God had better things in store for her, although it was by no ordinary means that He was pleased to make known to her His more excellent way.

One Sunday, she went to church as usual, and took part in the singing and prayers, which were performed in the same mechanical order as at other times. It was not until the text was read out that her attention was particularly aroused; but this so arrested her that it all seemed to be intended for herself. The words, "Ye must be born again," uttered by the lips of an unconverted preacher, were made the message of God to her soul, but not as yet the message of peace. Her conscience was troubled, and as the words of the text were revolved in her mind, and the necessity of the new birth laid hold upon her heart, she trembled in her seat, and all her fancied goodness fled away; for here was Nicodemus, a good man, a teacher of religion, a pattern of morality, being told by the Lord Jesus that he must be "born again," or he could not enter heaven. She could see now that her almsgiving and church-going would not satisfy the righteous claims of a just and holy God.

She had made a most blessed discovery--that she was a lost sinner, "having no hope, and without God in the world." She returned home in great distress of mind, and so continued until the next day. These painful exercises then showed no signs of abatement, for the words of the text kept ringing in her ears; so, on the morrow, as early as convenient, she sought an interview with the clergyman, in the hope that he might be able to minister relief to her troubled heart.

But "woe unto you, ye blind guides!" The only counsel he could give was, to remind her of her good deeds, her consistent life, her regular attendance at church, &c., urging her to be calm and to banish from her mind these distressing thoughts, as there was not the slightest foundation for her fears. But this only increased her trouble, and she cried out, in great anguish of soul, "Tell me how I can be 'born again'! Tell me over again what you were telling the people yesterday." As she earnestly entreated him thus, he became greatly perplexed, for, alas! the sermon he had preached the day previous was borrowed, and had since been returned to its owner; so, in much confusion, he had to confess his inability to help her; but said he, "You must get into cheerful company, read lively books [at the same time offering to lend her some of Shakespeare's plays], and these impressions will soon wear off." But the solemn words from John iii. 7 were fastened in her mind by the "Master of Assemblies," to bring forth their fruit in due season.

My grandmother left the minister in great despair, which continued and increased to such an extent that eventually it became necessary to remove her to an asylum, and her cries of distress were heartrending, her incessant and unchanging cry being, "I must be 'born again'! Tell me how I must be 'born again'!" But strange as it may appear, this was God's way of bringing her both mental and spiritual relief. A Christian lady who visited the asylum became acquainted with her case, and learning that there were times when grandmother was quieter and more herself, she resolved, if possible, to enlist the co-operation of a godly minister of her acquaintance; and having made it a matter of prayer, the way was soon open for him to see her, and the visit was made with the happiest results.

As the glorious Gospel message was set before her, in simple and earnest language, she listened with rapt attention, and drank in the blessed truth which was soon to become the power of God unto her salvation. After this visit she was a little restless at times, but as the truth entered her soul, and she was enabled by "precious faith" to lay hold upon Christ, her fears all vanished, and she gradually became more calm and peaceful. She was led to see that peace was made for her by the "blood of the cross," and not by her works; and, "being justified by faith, she had peace with God, through our Lord Jesus Christ."

She had now known and experienced the blessed change so long sought, and which might have been set forth at her first awakening had a wise counsellor been at hand. The change wrought in her soul was very real, and acted so beneficially upon her mind that shortly afterwards she was able to return to her home and friends, to tell "what great things the Lord had done unto her." The remainder of her life was one of settled peace and joy, fruitful in good works, and abounding in thanksgiving and praise to God.

Dear reader, how is it with you? Have you experienced this great change? Remember, nothing but reality will do for God and eternity. Neither education, morality, reformation, nor religious profession, can take the place of the new birth. "They that are in the flesh cannot please God." There must be a new life and a new power communicated, in which to love and serve God; and this can only be "by the washing of regeneration and renewing of the Holy Ghost." "Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God" (John iii. 3).--_Selected._

THE ENEMIES OF GOD AND OF HIS PEOPLE SCATTERED.

As the anniversary of the defeat of the Spanish Armada is to be celebrated this year, the following anecdote may not be uninteresting to our readers, as showing a like providence in the case of New England Christians.

Dr. Wisner remarks that the destruction of the French armament, under the Duc D'Auville, should be remembered with gratitude and admiration by every inhabitant of America. This fleet consisted of forty ships of war, and was destined for the destruction of New England. It sailed from Chebucto, in Nova Scotia, for that purpose. In the meantime the godly people, apprized of their danger, had appointed a season of fasting and prayer to be observed in all their churches.

While Mr. Prince was officiating in Old South Church, Boston, on the fast day, and praying most fervently that the dreaded calamity might be averted, a sudden gust of wind arose (the day till then had bean perfectly calm)--so violent as to cause a loud clattering of the windows. The pastor paused in his prayer, and, looking round upon the congregation with a countenance of hope, he again commenced, and, with great ardour, supplicated the Almighty to cause that wind to frustrate the object of their enemies.

A tempest ensued, in which the greater part of the French fleet was wrecked. The Duc D'Auville, the principal general, and his second in command, both committed suicide. Many died from disease, and thousands found a watery grave.

A late President remarks--"I am bound, as an inhabitant of New England, to declare, were there no other instance than the above to be found, the blessings communicated on the occasion now referred to would furnish ample proof, concerning answers to prayer, to every sober and intelligent man."

A HINT TO PARENTS.

In writing upon the education of the young, a thoughtful writer has made the following observations:--

"The little triumphs and successes of the young mind should never be lightly passed over without a token of just and fitting praise from the lips of its parents. The love of approbation is one of the strongest incentives to improvement and industry which the Creator has implanted in the human mind. In the child, this feeling is very predominant; and, if disappointed of its justly-earned tribute, will be checked, and the child disheartened and mortified.

"Benjamin West relates that he owed his success in life to the fond kiss of delighted approval bestowed on him by his mother, on his bringing her a rude production of his pencil when quite a little boy. 'That kiss,' said the great artist, 'made me a painter.'

"Praise, then, when merited, should never be withheld. It is the chief--indeed, generally the only--recompense to which children look; and it is a bitter and injudicious cruelty to deprive them of it. The approval and the censure of its parents and teachers should, in this sense, be the guiding stars of a child's existence. But care should be taken that neither should be bestowed carelessly or with partiality, so as to induce vanity, or, on the other hand, bitterness of feeling."

BIBLE ENIGMA.

An Apostle employed as a messenger.

The son of Zephaniah.

A disciple called "the chamberlain of the city."

A place whence gold was brought to the temple.

An idol of Damascus.

He who arrested a prophet that was put into a dungeon.

Who said, "The Lord is good, a Stronghold in the day of trouble," &c.?

A disciple who dwelt at Troas.

A sorcerer struck blind.

The name given to the sockets for fastening the stones in the ephod.

That without which it is impossible to please God.

The place where one was struck dead for touching the ark.

Aaron's wife.

The Syriac name for "Father."

The Epistle where the words are--"Ye are not your own," &c.

The place to which Samson gave a name, where he quenched his thirst after slaying the Philistines.

Total--one of the titles of Christ, used prophetically.

LOW expense is the highway to fortune.

THE SIXTH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS GATHERING OF EBENEZER SUNDAY SCHOOL, HASTINGS.

Year succeeds year and marks the flight of time, and, in its flight, leaves the impress of many changes, proving to every thoughtful mind that "here we have no continuing city." But, amid the changes of life, the Lord encourages His people to wait upon Him; and none need to do so more than they who are engaged in the work of spreading His truth, whether among old or young; and when the spirit of prayer is kept alive in their midst, they are not without testimony that "the Lord is with them." These thoughts were in the minds of some who witnessed the assembling of the scholars of this school on December 27th, and they marvelled how any God-fearing man or woman can feel indifferent to the welfare of the young, or look on unmoved as they assemble together. To some of us these gatherings are as "the solemn assembly." We see an eager, expectant throng, seeking for that which shall please them--for the most part, seemingly unconscious, for the time at least, that they have immortal souls that must live in eternal happiness or eternal misery, and, therefore, without a knowledge of their state before God. We see our own children, and yearn over them in prayer before God, and, like Ezra, we would "afflict ourselves before God" to seek a right way for ourselves and our little ones.

The scholars assembled in the chapel, as usual, at half-past two, when the proceedings were opened by a short address from our Pastor and President, Mr. T. Hull. Many friends encouraged us by their presence, though the severe weather considerably influenced their number.

As soon as a hymn had been sung, Mr. Hull read and expounded the first Psalm, showing the character of that man whom God had pronounced blessed. He then earnestly besought the Lord's blessing, and followed it by a few words on the preciousness of truth.

The report was then read by the Secretary, Mr. Ellis, and again proved to be of a most interesting and encouraging character. The steady increase that marked the earlier years of this school has been continuous, the number on the register now being 250, showing an increase of sixteen during the year. The average attendance has been 153 in the morning, and 194 in the afternoon, as compared with 135 and 169 in 1886. The highest single attendance was 223. Two scholars have been lost by death, and one teacher by removal.

We give an extract from the report, as expressing the earnest feeling of those engaged in the work--"To record an increase in numbers is pleasing, as showing outward success; but the success we desire is, that our scholars may be brought to a knowledge of the Lord, that God's truth may be established in their hearts, and that many that meet with us now may bless the Lord for the instrumentality of Ebenezer Sunday School."

The financial statement showed a balance in hand of L5 16s. 7d. This would be to December 1st, the date to which the accounts are made up, and, therefore, leaves the expenses of this day, with the prizes, to be met by the balance in hand, which, of course, is quite inadequate. But the executive feel sure that the same kind thoughtfulness that has put them beyond anxiety in the past will not be wanting in the future. The expenses of the year have been L34 11s. 4d.; the income L32 10s., which, added to the balance brought forward from last year, makes L40 8s.

Several addresses were next given, and listened to with marked attention. The Superintendent, Mr. J. Trimming, spoke of his own feeling in the work, and how earnestly he looked for the blessing of the Lord; the anxiety he felt for the young, and the vast importance of putting a right value on the Word of God.

Mr. R. Funnell, who is in his seventy-eighth year, was most enthusiastically received. He is a pattern of diligence and earnestness in everything connected with the welfare of this school and Church. He very nicely used the illustration of Elijah gathering the people on Mount Carmel, as showing his thoughts on Sunday School work. Though we may build altars, yet, if no living fire comes down from heaven, no saving work will be accomplished.

Mr. Poole enforced the importance of taking heed to both what we read and what we hear, and to treasure up the Word, that it might be of profit.

Mr. Ellis, the Secretary, followed with a few affectionate and earnest words, at the close of which, Mr. Hull proceeded to distribute the prizes--the most interesting event of the afternoon. Before distributing to the scholars, Mr. Hull called on three teachers, namely, Miss P. Funnell, Miss M. Funnell, and Mr. Jesse Vine, to receive a present from their respective classes--a proceeding most heartily received by the whole school. And now, class after class filed past the President to receive the book prize awarded to them; and though the list was long, and the recipients many, he had a kindly word for all. Mr. Hull does not spare himself on these occasions, and by his pithy remarks and enforcement of precepts, suggested by the proceedings, contributes in no small degree to the success of the gathering.

Tea was now announced, the arrangements for which--both for scholars and friends--were excellent, and most heartily did the assembly respond to the invitation.

At the close of the tea, the scholars again took their places in the chapel, and proceeded to carry out a plan wholly devised and arranged by the Superintendent. In introducing the subject, Mr. Trimming spoke of the importance of the study of the Word of God--a study which he had reason to fear was sadly neglected; and with a view to show the Word of God as a harmonious whole, and to bring into prominence the Book of Proverbs, he had prepared a subject, or a series of subjects, which he called, "The Crown of Glory." He read Proverbs iv. 7-9, as the basis of his plan. In a crown there are precious stones, the precious stones in this crown being--first, the fear of the Lord; secondly, repentance; thirdly, seeking God; fourthly, shunning evil; fifthly, obedience to instruction; sixthly, waiting upon God; seventhly, acknowledging God's sovereignty; eighthly, truthfulness and honesty; ninthly, guards for the temper; tenthly, guards for the tongue; eleventhly, God's power over all hearts; twelfthly, true friendship.

To illustrate and bring out into bold relief each of these precious stones, each class had prepared portions of Scripture, hymns, or poems to recite as each subject was announced. It must have repaid the Superintendent for all the trouble he had taken, and given the friends much pleasure to hear the manner in which the different classes acquitted themselves, the Young Men's Bible Class especially. Throughout the entire proceedings, hymns, specially selected for the occasion, were nicely sung by the scholars, and contributed much to the heartiness of the gathering.

The school-room was decorated in the usual manner, namely, with garments destined for distribution among the deserving poor. These garments have been made, as in former years, by the scholars and friends--in fact, the School Dorcas is now an established institution, and shows what may be done by kind hearts and nimble fingers.

The meeting was brought to a close, shortly before nine o'clock, with the usual acknowledgments, the singing of "Shall we meet beyond the river?" and prayer, every one feeling that another pleasant and profitable meeting had been held.

C. E.

OUR BIBLE CLASS.

PSALM XXXII.

With our Bibles open before us, dear young friends, we will try to make a few comments on this portion of Scripture. But let us first turn to Psalm li., for there is the sad confession of sin which went before this joyful song of "Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven." This first verse is a shout of joy and gratitude. Oh, the happiness--the indescribable happiness--of the forgiven sinner!

Four words are used to describe wrong-doing and guilt: _transgression_, or trespass--a venturing on forbidden ground; _sin_--a failing, or falling short of goodness; _iniquity_ (second verse), wilfulness, rebellion; and _guile_--deceit and falsehood.

And here are four pictures of God's saving love. _Forgive_ means "forth give." Pardon flows forth freely and fully from the heart of God to all who truly confess their sins and entreat His mercy. Sin is _covered_, for Christ is the _Propitiation_ for His people's sins, and these two words carry us back to the tabernacle's most holy place, and bring to view the covering, or lid, of the ark, the mercy-seat, sprinkled with atoning blood and bright with the divine glory. Jesus has died, and His blood cleanseth from all sin. To Him David looked, and was saved, and faith now looks back to His perfect Sacrifice, and rejoices in Him alone.

Then iniquity is not imputed to the pardoned one, for "it is God that justifieth." "Impute" or "reckon" reminds us of an account book, with its columns of debt and credit entries. God will not charge His children with iniquity, for Jesus paid their debts, and Christ's goodness and merits are reckoned in their favour, and they shall receive all blessings for His sake.

And then these blessed ones are _made_ as well as "reckoned" righteous. In their "spirit there is no guile." They, through God's Spirit, become honest and sincere. Oh, how blessed are these forgiven ones!

Then David, for the sake of contrast, presents another picture--his own attempts at covering his sin. What clumsy, miserable failures! He tried to cover one stain by another blot, and then threw the cloak of falsehood over all. But the weary months passed on, and brought him no relief from the unspeakable wretchedness that filled his heart and wore out his body by day and by night, till Nathan, the prophet, was sent by God to reprove him, and then, with a full heart, David acknowledged all, and received the free pardon of his Heavenly Father.

Now, David would be useful to others, and warn sinners against the evil ways they are pursuing (see ver. 10, first clause), and would encourage all who are seeking the Lord to hope in His mercy, who had been so merciful to him. God had often been his Hiding-place (ver. 7) when he fled from Saul into rocks and caves of the earth. His sure defence was the Lord Himself. He preserved him from death; and now he had afresh experienced His loving-kindness. And as we read this verse, are we not reminded of the sweet lines--

"Rock of Ages, cleft for me,
Let me hide myself in Thee"?

The Lord Himself is the great Instructor and Leader of His people, and He guides them with His eye always upon them, watching and protecting the objects of His care (ver. 8). But David would tenderly exhort all who heard, and still hear him, to dread sin, and be afraid of all wayward, self-willed feelings. "Be ye not as the horse, or the mule, that have no understanding" of their owners' will sometimes, but will, if possible, get their own way, and need to be steered and restrained. "I have been like them," David seems to say, "and I was allowed to take my own course; and oh, how fearfully I went astray! Be warned by my fall, and learn, with me, to pray, 'Hold Thou me up, and I shall be safe.'"

"Many sorrows shall be to the wicked, but they that trust in the Lord," though they are weak, and foolish, and imperfect, "shall be compassed about with mercy." Therefore, "be glad in the Lord, ye righteous: and shout for joy, all ye that are upright in heart," for He is good and faithful, and will preserve you; He is gracious, and will forgive; He is holy and almighty, and He will cleanse you from all unrighteousness, and fill and crown you with His glory for ever.

May we be kept by the power and providence of God from falling into sin and evil, but since we have sinned and come short of His glory--since we need pardon and cleansing--may we be led to pray, with David, "Wash me, and I shall be whiter than snow. Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me." Like him, may we know the joys of divine forgiveness, and then be helped to show forth our Saviour's praise, not only by our words, but in our lives, by walking in the way of His commandments, and "cleaving to Him with purpose of heart."

Our next subject will be, John xvii. 22.

Your loving friend,
H. S. L.

DO those things that you judge to be good, although, after you have done them, you may be disesteemed, being regardless of the praise or blame of the vulgar.--_Pythagoras._

PRIZE ESSAY.

WHAT KIND OF SERVICE IS MOST ACCEPTABLE TO GOD?

God accepts that service which is prompted entirely out of love to Him with greater pleasure than any other. If we obey our parents and serve God only with a view of being praised by men, He does not accept our service, and we may be compared with the scribes and Pharisees washing the outside of the platter and of the cup, but leaving the inside unclean. Jesus says, "Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye make clean the outside of the cup and of the platter, but within they are full of extortion and excess" (Matt. xxiii. 25). Jesus means by this that the scribes and Pharisees gave heed to all the outward ceremonies of religion, and were, to all appearance, good and upright; but they did not really love God in their hearts. God looks upon the motive which prompts any little kindness to any one. He does not look so much at the action. He says, even a cup of cold water, if given for Jesus' sake, will be remembered and rewarded (Matt. x. 42; Mark ix. 41). Jesus says that even the widow who put her farthing into the treasury, gave more than the scribes and Pharisees, who put in large sums of money. He means by this that the widow put in all she had. She must have had great love to God to give her last farthing for the use of God's house, and the Pharisees were really prompted to put in their large sums of money because of the praise of man. In obeying our parents, and in whatever we do, we should do it as unto the Lord.

Paul says, "Not with eye-service, as men pleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart; with good will doing service as to the Lord, and not to men" (Eph. vi. 6, 7).

"Only a kindly action,
Done to a child of God;
Not done to cause attraction,
But as unto Christ the Lord."

When Mary poured the precious box of ointment on Jesus' head, and anointed His feet, and wiped them with her hair, she did it out of love to Him, and Jesus accepted her service; and when some were angry at what they termed the woman's waste of ointment, Jesus reproved them, and said, "She hath done what she could."

Oh, that we may have our sins forgiven through the blood of Jesus, and be enabled to serve Him acceptably, so that we may have the joy of hearing Him say, at the last day, "Come, thou blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world" (Matt. xxv. 34).

"Search me, O God, is my desire,
Nor let me from Thy ways depart;
To love and serve Thee I aspire,
Enriched with Mary's better part."

MABEL ELLEN DENLY
(Aged 11 years).

_197, High Street, Hounslow._

[We have received several good Essays this month, especially those from E. B. Knocker, Jane Bell, Margaret Creasey, L. Rush, and P. Rackham. We hope all of them, as well as the very young friend who wrote the above, will feel encouraged to persevere.]

[The writer of the above Essay receives a copy of THE SOWER for 1887.

The subject for April will be, "Who are they that will Stand Perfect in the Day of Judgment?" and the prize to be given for the best Essay on that subject, a copy of "The Life of John Newton." All competitors must give a guarantee that they are under fifteen years of age, and that the Essay is their own composition, or the papers will be passed over, as the Editor cannot undertake to write for this necessary information. Papers must be sent direct to the Editor, Mr. T. Hull, 117, High Street, Hastings, by the first of March.]

"LET NO MAN DESPISE THEE."

Does the injunction to Timothy and Titus respectively--"Let no man less despise thy youth," and "Let no man despise thee"--give any sanction to self-assertiveness? Let it not be thought so. Am I eccentric for the sake of eccentricity, or for the sake of attracting notoriety? Am I tenacious of my own rights, while sublimely indifferent to the rights of others? Do I try to pass myself off for better, wiser, richer, or nobler than I am? Then I deserve to be despised. But if, in the vindication of unpalatable truth, or in the steadfast and unostentatious discharge of duty, I encounter scorn, be scorn my portion. The sum of the matter seems to me to be this--While, on the one hand, I must be willing, for conscience' sake, to endure reproach, opposition, buffeting, and contempt, I must be equally concerned, on the other, to avoid every questionable act or thing that, with any show of reason, may cause me to be despised, and may thus materially mar my influence for good.

Herein does the poet of the "Night Thoughts" hit the mark--"Revere thyself, and yet thyself despise." Let self be "of no reputation," but, at the same time, do thou faithfully and prayerfully pursue intrinsic worth, and let not "a good name" be of no account in thy regard.

THOMSON SHARP.

EGOTISM and self-assertion are unamiable traits.

Interesting Items.

A CORRESPONDENT of the _Echo_ calls attention to the fact that, at Dr. Lee's church, in the New Cut, on Sunday night, January 1st, the _Te Deum_ was sung in thanksgiving for the Papal Jubilee, and wishes to know what is to prevent it. "Nothing," replies the editor.

ACCORDING to the _Charity Record_, the amount of money bequeathed in great sums for charitable purposes during the year just closed was more than L700,000; and if bequests under L1,000 be added, the total would at least reach L1,000,000. This is exclusive of the money given to several religious and book-publishing societies.

A THIEVING ELEPHANT.--The contents of a clothes-chest, belonging to one of the people recently employed in the carnival in the Waverley Market, Edinburgh, disappeared in a rather amusing fashion. The chest had been lying near the performing elephants, and in the morning it was observed that one of these animals was particularly lively, and apparently in the very highest spirits. Later on, the owner of the chest discovered that the whole of the contents had been abstracted. Subsequent examination satisfied the searchers that one of the animals was responsible for the disappearance of the wardrobe, and as none of the articles could be discovered hidden away in its vicinity, the only conclusion that could be come to was, that the mischievous animal had swallowed the whole lot--boots, brushes, trousers, shirts, and several other articles of wearing apparel.

THE BAKU NAPHTHA SPRINGS.--Although within the last two years intelligence has frequently reached Europe of extraordinary outbursts of mineral oil on the Apsheron peninsula, near Baku, nothing has yet equalled the astonishing outbreak which the Northern Telegraph Agency telegraphed a few days ago. Their telegram was to the effect that, near the petroleum works of a certain M. Arafeloff, a fountain of oil was throwing out over 2,400 tons daily, that this had been continuing without intermission for four weeks, and that more than the half of this enormous output was going to waste. It is to this loss of the oil that attention is now being directed. Not only at Arafeloff's fountain, but at almost every large fountain in the Balakhan-Sabuntchin district, the waste of this most valuable product has been enormous. Millions of poods of oil have been lost owing to the inefficient way in which it is reservoired and stored. It is now understood that the Government will take immediate steps to prevent this ruinous waste, and to compel the owners of oil-springs to adopt more scientific methods of boring, collecting, and storing.

AN IRISH CABIN PAVED WITH GOLD.--The _Irish Ecclesiastical Gazette_ of December 31st contains the following:--"A few weeks ago, the writer was in a bank office in a country town in the south of Ireland, when a very common-looking, roughly-dressed man passed out after a conference with the manager. The latter said, 'Did you see that man? Well, some time ago, there was a run on the Bank of Ireland here, and he withdrew (receiving it in gold) L700 which he had there on deposit. That sum he informs me he still has at home, "under the kitchen flure." He has also more than L400 on deposit here with us.' Is it not hard to know 'what is truth' in Ireland? Here you have the floor of an Irish cabin literally paved with gold at a time when the payment of rent is impossible. It may be said that this is an exceptional case, but we believe such cases are not at all so rare as some suppose."

THE Roman correspondent of _Le Paris_ of January 5th states that, at Florence, Mr. Gladstone was heard to express a desire to see Leo XIII. This being repeated at the Vatican, the Pope sent word to Mr. Gladstone that nothing would delight him more than to have a visit from him. It is therefore arranged, says the correspondent of the _Paris_, that he is to go to Rome, and when he calls at the Vatican, is to be received according to the ceremonial adopted there when non-Catholic visitors are admitted to audiences. The correspondent thinks that anxiety about the Irish question moved Mr. Gladstone to manifest the desire above mentioned, and that the Pope's celerity in reciprocating it sprung from the same cause. The Pope has been urged to stand out against the Land League; but, feeling what a momentous thing it would be to do this, he is, we are told, delighted to talk over the matter with Mr. Gladstone. Thus we see Salisbury and Co. and Gladstone and Co. are in perfect agreement as to giving their power to the Pope. It is only a keen competition between them as to which shall be first, and do it most effectually. Since Salisbury and Co. have encouraged the Queen to despise her coronation oath, we need no longer wonder that they are so quiet about Mr. Bradlaugh. Perhaps Lord R. Churchill's expressions on the subject were anticipatory of the whole matter. We find that neither party is worthy of being entrusted with our Protestant interests.

NINE hundred thousand dog licenses were issued for the past year. The duty amounted to L340,000.

CHRISTMAS AT THE LONDON POST OFFICE.--From statistics it would seem that never before have the Post Office officials had their energies so severely taxed as on Christmas Eve last, during which day no fewer than 15,000,000 letters and newspapers were forwarded to their destination. In all some 3,000 supernumerary men were engaged, these being in addition to the regular staff. At Coldbath Fields, where the Parcel Post is now conducted, some 65,000 inland and 5,000 foreign parcels were disposed of during the day, for the conveyance of which to the various railway termini more than 800 vans were brought into requisition.

AN ATLANTIC WAVE.--An immense wave recently fell upon the steamship _Umbria_ with a deafening roar when a thousand miles from Queenstown, bringing the ship to a standstill, and causing much damage to the decks. Stout brass rods, an inch in diameter, that formed the railing about the bridge, were twisted and bent like straws. An eye-witness, who has made thirteen ocean voyages, thus describes the occurrence:--"The look-out saw the wave coming, and the course of the vessel was altered so that she met it obliquely, while the speed of the engines was slackened. As I saw the huge wave, it looked like a black mass of water with white waves on the top, and it rolled higher and higher as it neared the vessel. When it struck her she shivered from stem to stern, and the combing of the wave fell with the weight of tons on the deck. The wood cover of the forward hatch was splintered in pieces, while the water poured in torrents into the hold, but the bulkheads were closed. The bridge was broken, and the iron stanchions were twisted with enormous force, while the turtle-back was flattened by the tremendous weight of the water. There was also a panic among the passengers, most of whom were sleeping in their berths. When the force of the wave was felt, they thought the ship was going to the bottom, and many in their night-clothes rushed into the main dining-room. Of course the danger was past, as the wave rolled by, and the excitement subsided."

ZION SUNDAY SCHOOL, HERDEN BRIDGE, YORKSHIRE.--The friends, teachers, and scholars connected with the above place celebrated their annual Christmas tea festival on Christmas Eve, December 24th, 1887. The school-room was very tastefully decorated with evergreens and mottoes in touch with the season; also the tables, so richly laden with all sorts of nice and dainty things, had not escaped the eye of the decorators, for at intervals luxuriant exotics were placed, thereby contributing a very pleasing appearance. The children's features were lightened up with the thought of their happy treat; also the older people seemed to wear pleasant countenances, and apparently enjoyed the time, notwithstanding their thoughts were in a much loftier strain. The tea was served by the young ladies of the place to about one hundred and forty. After tea, a public meeting was held in the chapel, presided over by Mr. John Smith, of Halifax. The meeting was opened by singing a Christmas hymn, after which Mr. T. Barritt, senior deacon, offered prayer. Mr. E. Hargreaves presented the prizes to the scholars for good attendance. Addresses were also delivered by Messrs. T. Smith, Jos. Smith, and T. Barritt. Hymns were sung. The report was read by the Secretary, which showed an increase of eight during the year, the present number on the books being eighty-two. Recitations were given by the scholars, and a very good meeting was brought to a close a little after nine o'clock.

ALBERT STREET CHAPEL SUNDAY SCHOOL, OXFORD.--The prizes were distributed to the scholars on Tuesday, December 27th, 1887. The meeting was opened by singing, "I thank the goodness and the grace"; this was followed by prayer. Owing to the indisposition of Mr. Newton, the friends, teachers, and scholars were greatly disappointed in not having the usual address they look forward to every year from the Superintendent. There were twenty-eight boys and girls who said pieces, and they, one and all, deserve great commendation for the capital way in which they recited. One girl, aged twelve, rehearsed the story of "Giving Away a Child," in prose, from Volume IX. of the LITTLE GLEANER. Another scholar, aged twelve, repeated in a very perfect manner a lengthy piece containing seventy-nine verses, entitled "The Little Pilgrim." This too was taken from an early volume of the LITTLE GLEANER. A boy, aged eleven, rehearsed very nicely a difficult piece called "The Two Brothers, and what Echo said to them," and he imitated the echo capitally. Then followed, perhaps, the greatest attraction of the evening, namely, the distribution of the prizes. The first prize in the boys' class was awarded to William Tombs, and in the girls' class to Elizabeth Leech. As usual, a prize was given for the best essay--the subject, "The History of Joseph." This prize was awarded to a boy, who received a nicely-bound book, entitled "Pebbles from the Brook." The meeting was closed with prayer.