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will be an inducement for others to attend, their progress is worthy of remark, thus an opportunity is given to this neglected (and in the eyes of the community) degraded race, of obtaining that knowledge pertaining to the salvation of their souls, and of laying the foundation of their present and eternal welfare. When we reflect upon the deplorable ignorance of this part of fellow beings, we must weep over their condition, and view with mingled feelings of pity and detestation him, who for the sake of lucre, first introduced them as slaves into our country, and brought them upon a level with the brutes that perish. Let us exert ourselves therefore to ameliorate their moral condition, for the Lord of Glory has died for them also and their souls are equally valuable with ours.

Our funds being inadequate to the purchase of the many premiums which were requisite for the rewarding of merit, it was thought advisable to commence a library, the perusal of the books to be awarded, instead of the distribution thereof, and at the same time to continue our former method of distribution, but merely to those who were unable to read, by this means, holding out an inducement to them to attend and receive the benefit of instructions given. The Library containing upwards of 40 volumes, consisting of Memoirs, &c. together with a number of cheap books, selected by our President, was opened for the first time last May. The scholars have always manifested a great desire to peruse the books, and have increased their exertions to obtain them from the Library. Teachers and others desirous have the privilege of reading the books, by paying 2 cents for each number, returning them weekly. This money to be appropriated towards increasing the library. There is no doubt but that the children will be much benefitted by having access to the Library, for each book must afford instruction to the reader, and many may become seriously impressed connected with the instructions given and much good result. Yet it is to be regretted that our means are so limited as to prevent us increasing the number of books, as from the Treasurers account it appears that about $5 is yet due by the Society, being part of an amount unpaid, which was advanced disinterestedly by a member towards the purchase of the library, to be refunded by the Society when able to do so, and part of an amount owing for stationary, &c. and there are moreover unavoidable expenses which must be incurred for the purchase of firewood &c. all of which are to be discharged by the small amount of annual subscriptions. It is to be hoped that some measures might be entered into, so that we could have à fund of $20 annually, this small amount would liquidate contingent expenses, and enable us gradually to increase our library, which would afford more advantages to the children and teachers. And shall it be said that we are unable to procure this sum so small? We earnestly hope not.

Judsons Bible Questions have been introduced into the reading classes, this work facilitates the duties of the teacher and enables him more fully to explain the Sacred Scriptures to the members of his class, and himself receiving instruction thereby. Catechisms have been made use of at the option of parents, and it is believed the method of instructions now pursued, is well calculated for the improvement of the chil dren. Many of the children who commenced with us, still remain and

we think in the course of time will become efficient teachers, having had the advantages of instruction given, and being gradually prepared for the important undertaking of instructing; thus, by this means we will obviate the present difficulty we labour under, of obtaining suitable teachers, teachers who will with a proper interest assist us in our labours. Our aim is the same as that of similar institutions, properly conducted, the advancement of the children in religious knowledge, without inculcating any sectarian views, but instructing them alone in those things which shall "make them wise unto salvation," and which are the fundamental principles of all evangelical churches. We believe that the benefits arising are always manifest, that much good has accrued both to teacher and scholar, and that the impressions now received may bring many to the "knowledge of the truth even as it is in Christ Jesus our Lord!" This should cause us to redouble our efforts not only in instructing those now entrusted to us, but of bringing others to our school, who now continually profane the sabbath, and of leading them into the paths of virtue and of happiness. How many children are there in and near our place, who receive but little or no religious instructions from their parents or guardians, who are each day more restricted than upon the Sabbath, and on this day left to themselves, they riot in whatever their inclination may suggest. These if brought to the Sabbath School would learn to "remember their Creator in the days of their youth," and thus be made blessed in time and eternity; and as great effects flow from small causes, the benefits can not be numbered, neither known, till the day of final retribution.

When we take into view the important advantages which have resulted from Sabbath Schools, ought we not to press forward in our duties with all zeal and love? And run that we might behold the rich reward of our labours? We would look unto Him who is the Giver of all Good, to strengthen us so that we might more effectually discharge our duties and ask of Him that he would make us faithful in our labours, not wasting the talents he has given us, but so using them that we might have cause to rejoice at the result of our labours. It is only by the aid of the Lord that we shall prosper, and we as teachers should not forget that those who ask shall receive and finally remember that all praise, honor and glory belongeth to the King of Kings alone. W. N. SCHOLL, Secretary.

HORSE RACING.

MR. EDITOR:-As Horse Racing is so much practised of late, and as the Lord has from time to time manifested his displeasure toward the practice; I have thought that the following facts which have occurred to my knowledge, might serve as a warning to those who may be addicted to that abominable vice, which is fraught with so many dangers. If you think they are worthy of publication, they are at your service.

In the eastern part of Virginia, commonly called "old Virginia," Horse Racing had become very popular some years ago. In the vicinity of M- lived an old gentleman, who was himself as well as his sons, very fond of sport. He had two active young mares which his sons used to take a short distance from home, upon a beautiful part

of the public road to train them for the races. Sometime in December 1808, the old gentleman, who was then upwards of 70 years of age and who was accustomed to do small errands for the family, took the mares to a blacksmith shop situated at some distance; and of necessity had to pass along the road where the beasts had been training. On his return home he let one of them loose to follow after him; and as he approached the ground where they were accustomed to be exercised, the one following came up in full speed, which started the one he was riding, and they both went furiously over the race-ground. The old man being too feeble to stop the one he was riding they continued running until they arrived at a descending part of the road, down which they darted with such unmanageable rapidity as to bring his face so violently against an oak tree that it broke his skull, leaving part of his brain hanging to the bark thereof. The mares continued their speed home to take the doleful intelligence to the family. The two sons came in search of their father and alas! found him a lifeless corpse, and thus were eye-witnesses of the evil results of training their beasts for sport. A man labouring close by was an observer of this melancholy scene.

This disaster however did not put an end to horse racing in that neighborhood, but the place for training the horses was removed some distance on the same road. In May following, on Ascension-day, two sons of one of his near neighbors were preparing themselves to take a ride. Their mother seeing them, and apprehending from their apparel, that they did not intend going to church that day, asked them where they were going. The eldest of them said they were about to take a ride for pleasure. She said it would be of greater benefit to them to go to the house of God and attend to preaching, than to ride for pleasure. The youngest of them, whose name was George, and then about 19 years old, said to his mother "we are going to practise our horses for the races that are soon to be, and if we can then win a good sum of money it will do us more good than what old Mr. C can tell us in his sermon to-day." His mother told him that he was a bad boy and had a bad heart. He then said that when he became old like she was, it would be time enough to be religious. So saying he laughed and mounted his horse. His mother's reply was "oh George I fear this will be an unlucky day for you!" The two brothers then proceeded to the race ground and on the way stopped at a still-house where they obtoined some fiery spirits and gathered a groop of their followers to witness and judge the running of their horses. After straining the horses once over the ground George's horse came out hindmost. He was displeased with his horse and after giving him a few curses, proposed to try it a second time, which was agreed to. After all things were prepared, he said he "would come out foremost this time or go to h-l in the attempt." So saying both put their horses under the lash; and George whipped his horse to such a degree that the poor animal left the road for the woods. and struck George against a tree with such violence as to leave part of his face hanging to the bark and he fell breathless to the ground, & though his breath soon returned his reason never did. He lived about an hour and all he was heard to say, were a few curses against his

horse, and calling him to stop. After a sled and horse were prepared to convey him home, and they had proceeded a few rods, he breathed his last; and at that moment, his mother made her appearance, wringing her hands and half distracted exclaimed "oh George my son! my son! would to God I could call you to life again! I think you would take my advice hereafter; but this I cannot do, you are gone, yes gone forever," she then lifted her hands towards heaven and said "oh my son! could I but have the hope that your soul was at rest, but this alas! alas!" she could utter no more but swooned away in a fit of despair. This was a most heart breaking scene, and horse racing has but seldom been practised in that vicinity to this day.

I cannot forbear mentioning the following circumstance which took place in one of the western counties of the state of Pennsylvania a few years ago: In the fall of 1827 horse racing was introduced. The preacher of the place immediately raised his voice against it; pointing out the many evil consequences that would attend such a wicked practice. However, it appeared laughable to some and offended others. One young horse keeper especially, said, he would do with his property as he chose, and as he had to feed his horses he intended to practice horse racing as much as he pleased; regardless of all the preacher could say to the contrary. Consequently, he, with a few others continued the practice against all the warnings, admonitions and entreaties of the preacher and elders of the church, until August 1828, when this young horse keeper with some of his companions started to go to a neighboring village, and when starting his wife followed him to the door, entreating him to leave off such a dangerous practice, as racing. He only laughed at her and said, it was the influence of the preacher which caused her to talk so silly.. On his way to the village he, and one of his fellows determined to try the speed of their horses, and in doing so his horse left the road and dashed him with great violence against a tree, which caused him to fall apparently lifeless to the ground. After a few minutes he rose on his feet and exclaimed "oh Lord! if I live to get over this I never will practise horse racing again." Then sinking to the ground he said no more and expired in a few minutes. His body was taken home a corpse to his widow and two little children, whom he had left but a few hours before in the prime of life and the enjoyment of health. The preacher was called on to attend his funeral, which he did, and preached a sermon from the following words: "The harvest is past, the summer is ended and we are not saved" (Jer. 8, 20.) The writer of this followed the three above mentioned unhappy men to their graves and saw them interred. PLAIN TRUTH.

TEMPERANCE.

That for a number of years, intemperance increased in our beloved country, is a most lamentable truth. In a number of States, a distille ry has been erected by many farmers, on their respective farms, from which an immense quantity of whiskey and apple-brandy found its way to the different markets.. The business became at length so profitable, and the thirst for something more rough than water increased, to such a degree, that many became intent, upon producing liquor,

which would inebriate, and yet yield a profit to the distillers, though sold at a very reduced price. The labouring class of society were most essentially injured, for from the cheapness of liquor, they adopted the custom of taking frequent drams and at all hours. Others, more wealthy imperceptibly adopted a similar cause, and increased the quantity of brandy or wine, or both, to be "poured down their throats."

As we cannot regulate our appetites and inclinations without the grace of God-without the influence and guidance of the Holy Ghost, many moral and correct men, became enslaved, and gradually sunk into degradation. The moment their appetites obtained a gratification, they were called upon again and again, and as creatures without the power of ratiocination, yielded, to the abuse of the gifts of God, carrying destruction into their families, depriving society of their services, and diminishing the number of candidates for the kingdom of heaven.

Since the majority of mankind, resist the operations of the Holy Spirit, and consequently the influence of the Gospel, some other method has been loudly called for, to preserve men against intemperance, who, being without vital religion, cannot in an ordinary manner, control themselves.

Temperance societies, appear to answer the purpose, in an eminent degree, to prevent men from becoming bad citizens, brutes and miserable wretches. The members obligate themselves, to abstain entirely from the use of ardent spirits, and though they may not really be Christians, yet pledging their honor to adhere strictly to the rules of the society, they taste not, and hence will not become drunkards. A number, who would not endure pure spring water, without adding an equal or greater quantity of ardent spirits, now, at least publicly, are temperate and sustain a good character. But a latitude is still allowed, which in time will be found an impediment, at least in controling the richer class of society, among whom many are found, "whose mouth must be held in with bit and bridle." We mean, that the use of all, strong beer and wine is not prohibited also. For either, intoxicates when drank immoderately, and such examples are alas numerous, persons tasting either and having it within their reach, continue sipping, until they are drunk the whole afternoon or during the whole night.

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But the progress and influence of the temperance cause will gradu ally embrace all inclined to slavery, for already do we see powerful and pathetic speeches, delivered against the use of ardent spirits, by such who drank freely, brandy, whiskey, punch &c. & found themselves, unable to resist an increased thirst. They found themselves rapidly marching into the abyss of destruction, and halted at once! Men and women, whose hearts are the dwelling place of the Lord Jesus Christ -who watch and pray, are controlled by the highest power, and are temperate in all things. Whether "they eat or drink," they do it to the honor and glory of God. And, although they may not actually and formally, subscribe the articles of an association, yet when they are commanded to promote the cause of their Lord, they readily desert if requisite, Father, Mother, all and every thing dear to them on earth.

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