kingdom on the earth. The age of miracle is gone, and that of means has taken its place.

PASTOR ROUSSEL IN IRELAND.

MANY of our readers have heard of M. Roussel, of France-a man who has done great things, as well as suffered somewhat for the interests of truth in his native country. As a man of intelligence, genius, and piety, and with all a foreigner, and a Frenchman, his opinion on the subject of the Revival of Religion now going on in Ireland possesses an extraordinary interest to those who, like ourselves, have been often taught and charmed by his inimitable writings. Had it been left with us to select an individual from the Continent to examine and report on the subject, there is not in the French Empire one whom we should have preferred. M. Roussel is every way an unexceptionable, and a most reliable 66 commissioner." He has no prejulice on the subject. His country has so largely and so long been the abode of infidelity and atheism, that she possesses no traditional knowledge, or written history of such things. He is, moreover, wholly uninRuenced by ecclesiastical connections, local circumstances, preconceived opinions, or peculiarities of creed and association. On all these grounds superior importance attaches to his deliberately formed, and publicly recorded judgment.

This eminent man then, having read and heard much of the wonderful movement in Ulster, at length determined to visit Ireland, that he might inquire into the facts, and form his own opinion. This he has done, and the results are before the world. His report constitutes the first article in the present number of the CHRISTIAN WITNESS. It will there be seen that he pronounces absolutely and emphatically in favour of the supernatural and Divine character of the movement. He has no doubt whatever that it is the effect of the outpouring of the Spirit of God. The whole statement bears the peculiar impress of the French mind. Philosophy blends with fact and enlightened observation. There are some statements, however, of an extenuating or abating character, to which we should take Exception; but these are of no consequence as touching the general testimony. Suffice it to say, that, in the solemn judgment of Pastor Roussel, "The finger of God is there!"

THE REVIVAL IN SCOTLAND. FROM another page it will be seen, that the

revival of religion is hopefully commenced in Scotland. For a long time past, multitudes of the faithful in that country have night and day been pouring out their hearts to God in that behalf. If their patience has been tried,

it would seem as if the answer had now begun to descend in "showers of blessing." While the manifestation is still confined to a small spot, the work there appears to be both real and powerful. Let us trust, that these are only the drops before the shower that is to come down as rain upon the mown grass, refreshing, rejoicing and blessing all the tribes of our Protestant Israel. It is matter for special remark, that Ireland, Scotland, and Wales should, at the same time, be visited in the same manner. England's time, "the set time," will, we trust, soon come; and if last, let us hope that there the blessing will be most abundant, forasmuch as the numbers and condition of the country require it. Nothing short of this will meet the necessities of the case, more especially of the Metropolis. It is, we think, of great moment that as many English ministers as possible, of all denominations, should repair to Ireland, that they may examine for themselves the true character of the revival. The greatest benefits might flow from such a visit. If, in very deed, the Gospel is coming to the people of five counties in the province of Ulster, "not in word only, but in power, and in the Holy Ghost, and in much assurance," is it not greatly to be desired that they should witness it with their own eyes and ears, and thus be enabled to compare the state of things which obtains at home with this increased development of Divine influence?

Dr. Massie, we are happy to say, has been to Ulster, where he thoroughly scrutinized the work in the chief centres of manifestation: and having formed his own opinions, he is now reporting the things he heard and saw to large assemblies both in the Metropolis and elsewhere. We ourselves have listened to him with an interest and a satisfaction which we should find it difficult to describe. The address occupied about an hour and twenty minutes, and we believe most of the audience would with us have been glad for a large extension of the time. The address was fresh, and new-made up purely and exclusively of the things Dr. Massie had seen and heard. There was not, from beginning to end, a sentence of the matter of his admirable pamphlet on the subject, published some weeks ago, and which we could like to be in the hands of every family in England. Dr. Massie's temperamental tendencies do not lie in the direction of enthusiasm; his hard and powerful intellect would rather lead to seep

ticism; but he strenuously contends for the Divine character of the revival.

Is it not desirable that, at least, one minister of our Body, from each of the great towns and cities, should visit Ulster ? In many cases, churches are quite able, and should be forward, to bear the expenses of their pastor's journey, and should do it. Where one church cannot, two or three might unite for that purpose. With respect to Home Missionaries, and zealous pastors of poor isolated churches, a score of these might easily be provided for by a few of our rich men combining for that purpose, or acting apart. That most excellent and incomparably useful layman, Mr. Drummond, of Stirling, has set a noble example by appropriating the large sum of £200 to aid Scottish ministers in crossing the Channel to visit the Irish field; and such was their readiness to avail themselves of his generosity that the whole sum was quickly applied for.

THE CONGREGATIONAL UNION. THIS important Body is to hold its autumnal meeting this year in Wales. There is grace in this determination, and, perhaps, justice, since although professedly including Wales, no meeting of the Union has ever been held in that country. The distance will, no doubt, keep back English ministers, delegates, and visitors to a great extent, but still they will cheerfully submit to the inconvenience that Wales may receive this its first "benefit." The holding of the assembly there will bring forward large numbers of Welsh ministers and people, who have never been able to attend either in London or the provinces. This will, doubtless, materially contribute to interest the Welsh brethren in the organization, and lead many to unite who have hitherto kept aloof.

There is something quite opportune in the period selected for this visit to Wales, which, it would seem, is being visited by the same Divine power as is now so gloriously being manifested in Ireland and Scotland. In Wales the revival is represented by a minister labouring there as "manifesting itself among all orthodox Churches-the Established Church, Independents, Baptists, Welsh Calvinistic Methodists, Wesleyan Methodists, alike. It has produced great unity and brotherly love amongst them. It is wonderful to behold what a spirit of prayer has possessed

the Lord's people, more especially the recently converted, and what immediate replies are vouchsafed to their prayers. The prayer meetings are universal through Wales, and God meets His people."

This language is remarkable. We long for more light on the subject. Appearances are certainly full of hope. The foregoing statement indicates so much that is peculiar and powerful, that we are astonished more has not been heard concerning it. We cannot but rejoice that the Union is to be held under such circumstances, and do fervently hope that it will be honoured to help forward the great work already begun. We trust the English brethren will bring back with them not only a portion of "Welsh fire," but of fire from heaven!

THE PEACE.

THE Peace, religiously viewed, is a matter of the deepest interest. It brings the entire population of Lombardy, amounting to nearly three millions, out of the house of Popish bondage, and introduces them to the glorious liberty, both civil and religious, of Sardinia. Henceforth they will enjoy all the blessings of a free press, a free pulpit, and an open Bible. Tuscany, Modena, and Parma, small Governments designated Duchies, have all burst their fetters; but there is reason to fear that these fetters will be replaced. Still, even should that unhappily be the case, a few months of full liberty will have been attended with consequences of the utmost importance to ultimate emancipation. The people have tasted its sweets, and they will not soon forget what they have experienced. The Papal States also, peopled by hereditary bondsmen, must continue to clank their chains, and wait for better times, which will finally put an end to their thraldom.

The great point is Lombardy. If it be remembered that, in point of population, that State is about equal to Scotland at the present hour, it will be seen that its deliverance is far from a light matter, and that the effect on the surrounding States, even if enthralled, cannot fail to be great and lasting. The Sardinian power is by this means nearly doubled, and now constitutes a very considerable kingdom. Lombardy, for a long time to come, will furnish by far the best field for Protestant Missions in Continental Europe.

CANADA.

CONGREGATIONAL CHURCHES.

THERE are altogether, so far as known, 82 churches.

MEMBERSHIP.

Seventy-five churches report on their roll, May 3rd, 3,435 members; of whom 1,368 are males, and 2,067 females. During the year, 38 have been removed by death, 131 have received regular dismission by letter, 9 have withdrawn without church action, and 40 have been removed by discipline. Total removals, 218.

The additions reported are, 191 by letters of transfer, and 355 by profession; in all 546. Twelve reports show a decrease of 55 in the aggregate; eleven reports show no change, the removals and additions being equal; while forty-four report an aggregate increase of 384. The net increase according to the returns is 329.

Seven new churches have been formed, including one reorganization.

MINISTERS.

Again we are permitted to report that death has made no breach upon our staff of ministerial labourers. But three have resigned their charges, with impaired health, and are seeking its renewal by temporary cessation from labour. A fourth has been entirely disabled by sickness throughout the year, though he retains his pastoral charge. One of these brethren is about to leave our northern clime for the coast of Africa, in hope of thereby regaining physical vigour.

Three graduates of our Theological Institute-two of last year's classes, and one of the present-have entered spheres of pastoral ministry. Another graduate, who for a time laboured in New York State, has returned to this province, and gathered a new church.

Three ministers have entered the field from Great Britain, and are in pastoral charges. Thirteen ministerial settlements have taken place during the year now expiring.

The following table, it is believed, includes all the Congregational ministers of Canada :Pastors, or stated supplies

Professors, Tutors, or otherwise, in
Educational departments...

Agents of Missionary or other Religious
Societies.

Without charge......

AVERAGE HEARERS.

55

5

38-1

71

There are 133 regular stations connected with the 75 churches that have reported, with an aggregate average of 9,788 regular hearers, and 2,000 attendants on occasional services : together making 11,788. In addition to the above Sabbath congregations, there are 88 week-day services reported, with an aggregate average attendance of 1,739.

SABBATH SCHOOLS.

Eighty-six are reported; 5 of which are

"Union Schools," and their attendance is not included. The 81 belonging to the churches reporting have 555 teachers, and 4,102 scholars.

CHURCH PROPERTY.

The churches in the table report 60 houses of worship; with sitting accommodation for 15,880 persons; estimated as worth 151,336 dollars. There are six other churches owned by the denomination, some of which, however, are at present loaned, or let to other bodies. The sum of 58,500 dollars is insured upon the 60 chapels reported. Only 42 reply satisfactorily to the inquiry respecting the legal transfer and registration of these real estates.

There are likewise six ministers' houses owned by the churches, valued at 3,500 dollars. A large proportion of the returns evidently state the value only of the buildings, making no estimate of the real estate. Another year this indefiniteness should be remedied. The total value of property, as reported, is 154,836 dollars.

This aggregate, compared with the present roll of church members, shows an average of about 11 dollars 30c. for every name enrolled. This, of course, is not the true average of each member's contributions, as many, not enrolled, are liberal supporters of religious institutions. But it is the nearest approximation that we can make. The average to each regular hearer is about 4 dollars.

Fifty-three returns report Home Missionary collections; and eleven have contributed to Foreign Missions. Thirty-eight report subscriptions or collections to the Theological Institute. Fourteen report considerable expenditures under the heading of "debts, building, and repairs."

BRITISH EXPORT TRADE IN 1858.

A return has been issued by the Board of Trade of the declared value of British and Irish produce and manufactures exported from the United Kingdom during the past year. From this document the following list has been compiled, showing the order in which the various communities of the world rank as our customers. It indicates the extraordinary fluctuations which took place in our trade, not as regards extent but direction-Australia,

which was almost equal with India in 1857, having since fallen far below it, and Turkey and other Eastern States having continued steadily to improve, while in the general business of Europe there has been a falling off. The totals for the United States and South America likewise exhibit a great decrease, which, however, will most likely be recovered in the present year. Thirty-five per cent. of our aggregate shipments go to our own possessions, 12 per cent. to the United States, 11 per cent. to Germany, and 7 per cent. to South America :-

SANITARY STATISTICS.

We are informed, that while the State of New York has the least mortality of any State or country of its size in the world, the city of New York has the greatest of any city, large or small. The deaths in the State, exclusive of the city, in 1855, were 23,255, with a population of 2,836,400; while the deaths in New York city, in the same year, were 23,012, with a population of 629,000-an almost equal number of deaths, with one-fourth of the population. The Philadelphia Press gives the table of mortality in different countries:

New York, (exclusive of City) 8 in 1,000 United States

England

Denmark

France

Holland

Sweden......

Prussia...

Austria..

Russia

15

LABOUR TO MAKE A WATCH.

Mr. Dent, in a lecture delivered before the London Royal Institute, made an allusion to the formation of a watch consisting of 992 pieces; and that forty-three trades, and probably 215 persons are employed in making one of those little machines. The iron, of which the balance spring is formed, is valued at something less than a farthing; this produces an ounce of steel worth 4d., which is drawn into 8,250 yards of steel wire, and represents

in the market £13 4s.; but still another process of hardening this original farthing's worth of iron, renders it workable into 7,650 balance springs, which will realize, at the common price of 2s. 6d. each, £946 5s., the effect of labour alone. Thus it may be seen that the mere labour bestowed upon one farthing's worth of iron, gives it the value of £920 58., or 4,552 dollars, which is 75,980 times its original value.

WRECKS AND CASUALTIES IN 1858.

The return of wrecks and casualties which occurred on and near the coasts of the United Kingdom, from the 1st of January to the 31st of December, 1858, has been issued. The return shows an increase on the whole number of wrecks and strandings, viz., 869 against 866 in 1857, and 837 in 1856; but it is to be observed that the number of total losses under those heads exhibits a decrease, being 354 in 1858, against 384 in 1857, and 368 in 1856. The number of total losses by collision is 50 against 53 in 1857, and 51 in 1856, while the number of casualties, involving damage by the same cause, is 251 against 224 in 1857, and 265 in 1856. The number of lives saved during the year 1858 presents much cause for congratulation; for out of 1,895 lives in actual peril from shipwreck, 340 only were lost, and 1,555 saved. Of these latter 206 were saved by life-boats, and 210 by the rocket and mortar apparatus. The remainder, with the exception of twenty-six lives (saved by meritorious individual exertion), were rescued by ships, steamers, small craft, and coastguard boats, and amount to 1,113. The lives lost in the three last years show a gradual, and in the last year especially, a satisfactory decrease, compared with the whole number of lives in peril.

IDOLATRY IN INDIA.

The Rev. Baptist W. Noel, London, in his recent work on the Government of India, makes the following singular, and, doubtless, authentic statement:-"In the Madras Presidency there are now 8,292 idols and temples receiving from Government an annual payment of 450,000 dols. In the Bombay Presidency there are 26,589 idols and temples under State patronage, receiving grants to the amount of 150,000 dols.; to which must be added the allowance for temple lands-giving a total for the Bombay Presidency of 450,000 dols. the whole of the Company's territories there is annually expended in the support of idolatry, by the servants of the Company, the large sum of 850,000 dols. !" In view of these facts, it is not surprising to learn that a prize of fifty guineas has been offered for the best Essay on the position which the Government of India ought to assume towards Christianity and Christian missions.

MISSIONARIES IN CHINA.

In

According to the New York Evangelist, the number of missionary arrivals in China annually, for the past eleven years, has been as follows:-In 1848, 17; 1849, 7; 1850, 10; 1851, 9; 1852, 7; 1853, 8; 1854, 15; 1855, 13; 1856, 10; 1857, 6; 1858, (nine months,) 5.

His

Ir is almost too late in the day to offer any criticism on the memoir of Edward Payson, whose praise is in all the churches of Christ on both sides of the Atlantic. That work, indeed, is not without defects; it is confused, and wanting in original observation. The author has added nothing to its value; he very properly lays claim only to the honours of compilation. There is much omitted which the public had a right to look for, and much that was required to make the work complete. It may be defined a "bundle of extracts and letters," with small regard to order or to chronological arrangement. Still, in spite of the compiler's neglect or incompetency, the book is one of extraordinary value. Payson was a man who would have defied the whole generation of blunderers to burke" him. entire course of life and action was a mass of vitality. His memoir is the history of his heart! The emotional everywhere overlays, or at least blends with the intellectual. His sympathy with Christ was wonderful! And only less wonderful was his people's sympathy with him! Here, to a vast extent, was the spring of his ministerial power. In other respects, he had among his contemporaries, multitudes equals, many his superiors, but in this particular few ever approached him. Payson had clearly much in common with our own Spencer, of whom a great writer said, "His feeling was intellect; his intellect was feeling." The expres sion is not very clear, but seems to import that feeling and intellect were so mixed up as to form a unity of immense power in acting on the minds of multi

his

His

tudes. The flexibility and tact of Payson were remarkable. He could adapt himself alike to rich and poor, old and young. His singlemindedness, too, was transcendant; and not less extraordinary was his humility. element was emphatically one of devotion; his life a stream of fervent prayer. His gift in prayer appears to have been his grand characteristic. It was an era in one's life to hear him. He seemed so rich in grace, so near the throne, so full of God!

The religion of Payson, as set forth in this memoir, demands special notice. It is peculiar, and to the extent that it is so, it differs from the portrait drawn in the Holy Scriptures. His " expe rience," as here delineated, is capricious and fitful, made up of light and darkness, cloud and sunshine, pervaded by a view of sadness and sorrow, sometimes approaching desperation. It is the religion of David Brainerd, and of many others in his day, all over; a thing of ups and downs and hidden impulses, ofttimes dreary, disconsolate, and repulsive, wholly at variance with the "experience," all life, light, peace. joy and hope, of the New Testament. In both cases the cause was the sameconstitutional hypochondria, combined with a defective standard. This moody temperament gave a colour to the whole life of these most admirable men. make this statement by way of caveat, since, without this, their memoirs are calculated to distract, mislead, and discourage, rather than to compose, guide, and cheer, build up, and edify.

66

We

The Thoughts" are already well known to the public, and greatly prized.