cessfully. And now they come up themselves.
The Doxologies are irregular—different in differ-
Ant editions. The Assembly never had adopted
them.
Dr. Edwards yielded to a motion to adjourn.
Afternoon Session.
The Assembly took up the unfinished business,
relative to the North-Western Theological
Seminary ; the question being on the location,
and Indianapolis and Chicago having been nomi.
slated.
Dr. Rice—The best interests of the Church
are to be regarded. It is admitted by all, that
if we are to have but. one Seminary, Indianapolis
is not the place; and no Synod and no Presbytery
has asked for more than one. The Seminary ought
to be strong—one well endowed is'better than two
feeble ones. If you locate with a view to another
Seminary, it will be sustained by but a part of
three Synods; for there are many brethren in
Indiana and Ohio who desire but one. Chicago
stands right in regard to the other Seminaries.
It is sufficiently distant from Danville and Alle
gheny. And it is central to the region to be sup,
plied. And Lane Seminary is likely to come
to us. The brethren are coming, and when
they come, they will bring the Seminary with
them. Absorption is in progress.
In Chicago young men can live cheap ; and
they can get many means
,of making a little to
aid them. It is also the centre of one of the
Most important evangelical fields in the world.
We should possess it at natal. Calle are numer
ous and urgent for ministers. Chicago makes
the best offer. The Directors said Chicago was
the place. They fixed that as the locality, and
should not argue against it now. The Synods,
also, all said it was the place. All were agreed.
It has been said to be sickly. Dr. Rice bad lived
there twenty months, and had not been called
upon to bury a child of his congregation ' sod
only two adults. And he had very little to do in
visiting the sick. It is the most healthy city be
ever lived in. The Lake breezes are healthful.
Mr. McCormick gives the money on principle.
He is a Presbyterian in heart and soul. He has
made his money in the North-West, and wishes to
build religion in that country. He makes nothing
to himself. If the brethren do not like the forty- '
five acres, a mile and a half out, there is an offer
of throe acres in the city, facing a beautiful Park.
He also believes that $60,000 additional will be
given for buildings; and the use of buildings will
be furnished gratuitously to commence with.
Rev. T. M. Cunningham, of Indianapolis,. could
say that this was not, with the people ,here, a
matter of perso'nal or local interest. A call bad
been issued, and no proposals were made. Then
was this movement made, and at a time when
Chicago said, " delay." Then the people of In
dianapolis came forwaid. They would meet a
necessity. The Directors had been in favor of
Chicago, but found the churches would not sees
and the motion. The expense was too great;
and there were other reasons ; and they had
withdrawn from Chicago. And changes are not
uncommon. The time was when Drpßice was in
favor of St. Louis. Yea when he wale in favor of
Cincinnati—near to Allegheny, and nearer yet
to New Albany. Yea, and willing to have a little
Seminary, of about six and a half students—and
just beside Lane Seminary! People will change.
And we have a right to bear from the churches
in Chicago. Lately the Expositor pleaded for
delay, because the churches were poor. Have
they become rich ? Do they want the Seminary ?
One matt asks it, and offers to endow it ; but, do
Christians want it there? Will they send their
sone there? New Albany Seminary was founded
by the churches in this region. They love it,
and would retain it. Indianapolis is central. We
have now here the largest Assembly, by fifty
members, which ever met. This proves it to be
in the right place.
And one Seminary is not enough for the North-
West. Here are eight states ; and more a coming.
Soon two Seminaries will be wanted. Locate one
with a view to another. He did 'wish for one
here now, and one in Chicago. He did not be
lieve that Chicago was the place at any time, but
plant one here, and in due time, when needed,
another beyond the Mississippi. He felt assured
that a Seminary at Chicago could not harmonize
the churches.
Dr. Rice would make an explanation. The
Expositor did not send forth a cry of delay. It
but said the Seminary should not be started till
at least three Professorships should be endowed.
He was in favor of Cincinnati, as a place where
Allegheny and New Albany should be united.
There never has been any difficulty between the
two churches in Chicago.
Rev. David Stevenson, of Indianapolis, had
told the brethren that there could ,be no success
for Indianapolis, unless $lOO,OOO were raised.
And now, as that amount had not been raised, he
did not desire the location. If there Is to be but
one Seminary for the North-West, then this is
not the plops).
But how did Chicago become so rich, all at
once. 'They had the' Seminary there for two
years, and did not raise money enough to ply
the a rtist for a draft for a building. Neither is
Chicago healthy. A physician says that the
deaths there are two to one, proportionally, to
those in Indianapolis.
Mr. J. C. Grier, of Peoria '
, had no wish for
two Seminaries. He wished for one, and that
well endowed ; e i nd he regarded Chicago as the
plan.
Dr. Wilson, of Cincinnati, was a Director of
New Albany Seminary twenty years ago, and
when Danville was established, he still stuck by
New Albany. But be always desired it should be
under the care of the Assembly; and now he
asked the Assembly to do for this part of the
country as it had done for others. He was not
zealous for either of the sites, though he had a
preference. But the population of this vast
region, from the Sciota to Kansas, and from the
Ohio to the British possessions, could not be long
satisfied with one Seminary. Between the Sciota
and the Mississippi, was a population now of
near four millions •an empire. For this territory
a Seminary is asked. He did not believe in this
idea of one Seminary. Danville was chosen as a
location, with the purpose of having one, or two,
others. ,Chicago is not the centre. Cincinnati,
St. Louis, and Chicago. are the apexes of the
triangle, and Indianapolis is the centre.
He was not in favor of a large place for a
Seminary. Lane is less than a mile and a half
from Cincinnati, and yet the New School churches
have died out. Professors and Theological stu
dents Will not build up churches in a city.
Students should not go to preaching, but to their
Bible. If students would learn human nature,
let them study their own heart, and the Ward of
God. Let them not neglect their proper studies
for parochial engagements.
Now for the money argument. Money will not
answer in place of students. And some men
have burnt their fingers prodigiously, when
grasping for it. But if the Seminary is located
here, the Synod of Cincinnati is good for
$40,000. Still, he did not put up the Seminary
at auction. It is wrong. The money argument
is pressed too much. A. gift blindeth the eye,
and perverteth the heart. Men—students, are
wanted. He feared the Assembly would put this
Seminary so far off, that Cincinnati will go to
Allegheny and Danville.
Rev. John Crozier, of Illinois, hoped the
Assembly would be enabled so to act as to give
peace and harmony to the Church. In these
three Synods there are sixty-one candidates for
the ministry. In the whole ten, there are ninety
four. If the brethren of the three Synods are
willing to unite on Indianapolis, they should
have it.
Rev. J. M. Lowrie, of Ft. Wayne, had no part
in forming the Constitution of the North-West
Seminary. He bad taken no partisan position
in the affair. Wien Chicago was found to be
an improper place, the brethren began to look
about for another, and attention concentrated on
Indianapolis. The churches which must sustain
a Seminary, lie around it.
The boor of riz having arrived, the Assembly
adjourned.
SEVENTH DAY.
THURSDAY, May 26th.
The Assembly attended to the usual Religious
Exercises.
The Minutes of yesterday were read and ap
proved.
Dr. Palmer read a report from the Committee
on Theological Seminaries. It spoke of Alle
gheny and Danville in most favorable terms ; and
also of Princeton. Several slight changes were
recommended, and adopted.
A readjustment of the titles and departments of instrua
tion, conforming them as near as possible to the distribu
tion and arrangement which formerly existed, to wit: that
Dr. Hodge shall hold his present chair without change;
that Dr. McGill be styled Professor of Church History and
Practical Theology—the latter to include all the functions
of the ministerial office, visa Church Government, Preach
ing, and the Pastoral Care; that Dr. Green be Professor of
Oriental and Biblical Literature; and that Dr. Alexander
be Professor of Hellenistic and Biblical Greek and .New
Testament Literature.
Relative to Allegheny, the following resolution
was adopted:
Reached, That the General Aseembly ehange the time of
cloning the measkm to the Wednesday preceding the 4th
Tneeday In April.,
Dr. William L. Breckinridge was nominated to
fill the vacant Chair in the Seminary at Danville,
the election to be held on Saturday. The As
sembly engaged in prayer for direetion, according
to the Standing Rule.
THE BOOK 01' DISCIPLINE.
The order of the day, visa the consideration
of the Report of the Committee on the Book of
Discipline.
Dr. Thorrtwell, Chairman of the Committee,
would not go over the report in detail, but would
revert to a few things.
1. The alteration proposes to strike off redun
dancies.
2. To bring out distinotly all things which
were in the Old Book, impiloitly.
H. Lathe additions made to the Book, there are
three fundamental principles.
(a) The Court is composed of Judges, not ad
' vacates. Hence members of the judioatory
pealed from, are still properly members of the
higher Court. They are not to plead and defend,
but to deliberate and decide. The appeal is to
the whole Church, and no portion should be ex.-
eluded. All should be in, to avoid contradictory
decisions.
(6) The indispensable condition under which
alone, a man becomes subject to judicial prose
cution, is his own personal and voluntary profes
sion Of religion. There is a great distinction
between professing and non-professing members
of the Church. The ground of the membership
of baptised persons, is not individual. but organic.
They are connected with the Church through
their parents. The parent brings the child, and
vows to do his, the parent's duty toward the
child, in training'it for God. The relation of the
baptised child to the Church is a separation from
the world, and enables it to plead the covenant of
God. Baptism gives a peculiar right to plead for
the inheritance promised. And it imposes pe
culiar obligations. Press their privileges, press
their obligations, but do not cast them out. Dis
cipline pre-supposes conversion, and is for edifica
tion. And it requires a . previous profession of
faith. We practically make a difference between
members. One class we do not admit to the
Lord's table. We admit only professors. So
also we subject but this latter class, to judicial
process.
(a) There should be a way to retire from the
Church, without being - cast out. The Church is a
voluntary sooiety, thus far. A man enters by his
own freewill. He comes with his own free consent
and binds himself. And if be finds be is not of us,
let him withdraw. They go out from us who are
not of ns. Do not bring them back, and throw
them out. If they will not return, persecute
them not. Do not excommunicate them, but
erase their names from the list of professors.
Dr. Wilson of Georgia, moved that the new
Book be sen t ! down to the Presbyteries for ap
proyal or rejection.
Di. Humphrey—The Book is logical through
out, and if any important change is made in hue
the whole will need to be remodelled. Is the
Assembly ready to consider it item by item?
This matter has been under advisement since
1786. A Committee was then appointed. In
1787 this Committee reported. It was eight days
under consideration by the Synods, and was
amended and sent down to the Presb yteries for
advice. The next year four days were consumed
by the Synod upon it . • It was then sent down to
the Presbyteries for approvall Now shall we
change the faith of Church with but a sheet dis
cussion.
Dr. H. regretted that he was obliged to differ
from his beloved brethren of the present Com•
mittee.
In 1816 a revision was ordered, and a Committee
appointed. In 1817 the Committee was enlarged.
In 1818, some progress was reported. In 1819,
a report was made, and one thousand copies
printed and sent out for examination. See the
caution.' And nothing radical wan proposed, as
is now. In 1820, the Book was taken under con
sideration—forfour days—and then sent down to
the Presbyteries for adoption. This book has
carried us along safely. And shall we now so
suddenly change it---change it in three great
principles.
Changes are introduced relative to the standing
of children in the Church. In 1611 the number
of baptisms were one hundred and ninety-eight
to one thousand members. The ratio has been
running &mu, till in 1866 there are but fifty-one
to the one thousand members. Now, in this de
clension, thrcugh negligent practice, is it the
time to break down principles ? The statistics
are not perfectly accurate, but they sadly show
that the doctrines of baptism are not sufficiently
understood, and that the duties are being neg. ,
lected. We should retrace our steps rather than
progress in the wrong way.
In the New School Church, there are but
twenty-six baptiams'to the one thousand mem
bers. Among the N. E. Congregationalists, there
are but thirteen to the one thousand. The right
is not in the parental descent, but in the covenant
of promise. Instead of adopting the proposed
increasing laxity of doctrine and statement, he
would go back to the language of 1789.
Dr. liumphrey was opposed also to opening a
back door. A man may not relinquish his cove
nant with the Lord—may not forsake the sacra
mental table.
And the fact: that a Judicatory has decided
upon a case, affect their impartiality, and so far
disqualifies them to sit on the same case in a
higher Court.
This House will deliberate before it makes such
radical changes. Let it be discussed in the
Presbyteries for a year at least. He then moved
that the Report be recommitted, and that the
Committee be required to consult the Presbyters
ies and report next year.
Dr. Thornwell would not oppose the recom
mitting, but he would ask an enlargement of the
Committee.
Dr. J. O. Lowrie wished the subject might not
be recommitted, but be referred to the next Gen
eral Assembly; in the meantime to be discussed
in the newspapers. He made the motion.
Dr. Humphrey said that the Committee bad not
been unanimous on every part. Dr. McGill bad
dissented from the report in regard to the rela
tion of baptized children.
Afternoon Seseion.
NO'RTR-WESTERN SEMINARY
This item of unfinished business was taken
up.
Rev. J. M. Lowrie—lt makes all the difference
in the world, between taking the New Albany
funds to Chicago with the consent of the donors,
and without that consent. There had been con
siderable personal controversy—he knew it not of
himself, but
. that was the impression, and he
wished' to keep clear of it. And he wished it'
could be kept out of the decision of the question..
Rev. D. H. Cummins, of Tennessee—This
Assembly has, probably heard enough on this
subject. He would give an opportunity of testing
it. He called for the previous question. The
call was sustained.
The Roll was called and there were, for Chi
cago two hundred and forty votes, and for In
dianapolis seventy-one votes, and two non liquet.
Chioago is hence the.location.
On motion of Dr. B. M. Smith, the whole sub
ject was, at this stage, referred to the Committee
on Seminaries; and several gentlemen were added
to the Committee. .
DOMESTIC MISSIONS
The report of the Committee on Domestic Mis
sions was called up.
Dr. Musgrave thanked the House for the conr
tesy extended in calling him to speak on the oc
casion. This Board has been under a Divine pro
tection, or, praises given it would have killed it
long ago. He was not soured by the remarks
made in opposition. He sympathized with those
who spoke of their sufferings. And he felt for
the destitutions detailed, and he wished the Board
were able to relieve them. But the ability was
nit possessed.
Minnesota had been liberally supplied. The
first missionary had $6OO a year ; and the average
to all the laborers there was fifty per cent. above
the general average. Hence there was no reason
for the complaints.
Every application for a missionary appoint.
ment, sent on by a Presbytery, during the year,
had been favorably responded to. Not one bad
been denied, so far as could be remembered.
And the balance do hand had not accumulated by
diminishing salaries. The salaries had been slight
ly increased. The money had come in during the
last two months of the year ' • and mainly during
the last month. It was in that month that the
balance came in.
The Board did not refuse to commission four or
live applicants, for California. So many direot
applications were made. The Board tried to get
three or four, but could not obtain them. Two
were found and sent. One made application;
but be was a student at the time, and could not
start at once, and was asked to wait till nearer
the time of his possible going. And also there
were personal reasons wby the individual should
not be sent.
Systematic Benevolence bad worked well, con.
sidering the financial embarrassments. But if
the Assembly thinks this plan a failure, then •let
it suggest some other. It is not the plan of the
Board, but of the Assembly. And is there any
thing peculiarly urifavorable to the Domestic
Board, in that one thousand seven hundred
churches have not contributed to it? No. More
churches contribute to the Domestic Board, than
to the other Boards, unless the last year has been
an exception. Then, as to the receipts, the For
eign Board reports a diminution from ast year.
Also the Board of Publication, for a part of the
year experienced such a falling off, that they
greatly reduced the number of •their colportenre.
The Board of Domestic Missions has the affection
of the churches, and their confidence.
Relative to Wisconsin ; that Synod asked a
traveling missionary at $BOO, of which $2OO
should be gathered from the field. But Wisconsin
had already its full average share, compared
with other destitutions. But the Board yielded
to the importunity, on the assurance that the $2OO
should be raised. But not a cent was raised.
They then refused to renew the commission at a
higher rate than $6OO. The brethren of Wiscon
sin are zealous, but others htive wants—lowa,
Minnesota, Kansas, Texas, the Paoli% Coast, the
whole land.
As to the proposition that the vote of the Pres
byteries, as to amount asked for, should be final,
what does it lead tot First come,- first served,
would be the rule. A few would draw. all. The
residue would have none. This principle, of men
voting for themselves, would be ruinous I A half
million of dollars would not answer.
The Board desires to promote its own efficiency.
Appoint the Committee spoken of.: Examine,
inquire, devise. The Board will rejoice in it.
The call, to ,commission all suitable applica
tions for California is unwise; and it would be
unjust to the other portions of the field. The
Board can expend $80;000 in California, or
$20,000,40r,519,009. It;makes :no difference to
the loard. They would but deprive one part to,
11 1 IR kr I BANNER AND ADVOCATE.
favor another. The Board strives rightly to
divide.
Mr. Hickman and Mr. Vandyke made explana
tions.
Concluded with prayer.
EIGHTH DAY.
FRIDAY, May 27th, 1859.
The usual half hour was employed in devo
tional exercises.
Minutes of yesterday were read and approved.
A careful counting of the roll, the names being
recorded, shows two hundred and forty-three
votes for Chicago, as the site of the North-West
Seminary.
Seven additional names were recorded in favor
of Chicago, and one in favor of Indianapolie,
making two hundred and fifty against seventy-two.
BOARD OF Enuczenort
The Fortieth Annual Report was preßentecl by
Rev. C. Van Reneeelaer, Corresponding. Secretary.
The Secretary remarked that one hundred and
forty-one new candidates had been received, being
thirty-eight more than were received last year.
The total number is three hundred and ninety
one, being six more than at the time of the last
annual report. The increase indicates blessings
upon the Church.
An advance in the Treasury of nearly $6,000, is
a subject of grateful acknowledgment. This
shows that the heart of the churches is being
turned toward this Board. In 1864 the order
was passed to increase the appropriation to can
didates about twenty per cent. The money has
been furnished, and the number of candidateshas
increased.
The Associate Secretary, Dr. Wood, has re
signed, and accepted the, Presidency of Hanover
College. There is no intention to supply the
place. The work is simplified. The plan of
Systematic Benevolence works well. There will
be still two Secretaries and a Treaaurer, but the
joint salaries charged to the Board will be but
$2,800. [Dr. V. rt. serves graluitously.-- - Ens I
The Department of "Schools and Colleges," is
favorable. Twenty-four Academies and Coleges
receive aid from the Board.
If the Church will give the Board a Plan for
raising funds for Academies and Colleges, the
Board will work it. Hitherto funds have been
supplied by a few individuals, mainly by two
Ruling Elders. The Board recommend a collec
tion on the day. set apart for prayer for Colleges ;
uniting alms with prayers. A few churches
gave, on the last concert, about $3,000. The
Board regard the fostering of new institutions in
a new country, as one of the most efficient means
of doing good. The Assembly is urged to help
the Board in measures that will enable them to
carry on the work.
Rev. Dr. J. A. Lyon, of Mississippi, presented
the report of the Committee. It strongly es
tains the Board, and recommends ,the following
resolutions:
Rewired, That the General Assembly learns with grati
tude of the general success that has attended the opera
lions of the Board of Education during the past year, as
evinced both by the increase of candidates and funds.
_Resolved, That the beet hopes of continued and enlarged
MIMES in the Church's operations In this department, as
well as in every other, is, under God, in prayer—and the
Assembly cordially recommend to all ministers to give in
creased attention to this subject In the devotions of the .
sanctuary.
Resolved, That one of the means of ended In the educe-
Non of candidates for the Gospel mivietry, consists in the
faithful and interested supervision of the Preabyteriem;
and as such supervision implies the possession, on their
part, of definite knowledge of the progress of all candidates
in their studies, and of their general qualifications for the
sacred office, it he recommended to the Presbyteries to con
sider the propriety of obtaining, at least once a year, from
the teachers' and Professors, where the candidates are
pursuing their studies, a report on such points, and in such
form as such Presbytery may deem beat.
Resolved, That the Assembly are gratified to learn of the
establishment of on many Academies under the care of
Presbyteries,-In addition to many others under the man
agement of Presbyterians, and urge continued attention to
the training of the youth of the Church and the countryin
the principles of the Bible. And this Assembly further
testify their continnedinterestin the " stahn,tun Institute,"
under the care of the Presbytery of Newcastle, and rejoice
that the tirst fruits of that Seminary consist in the educa
tion of three missionaries for Africa, who are now on the
deep, crossing over with the Gospel message to their breth
ren in that benighted continent.
Rao/neck That the Assembly cherish, with increased
affection and regard, the system of collegiate education,
Which, from time immemorial, has engaged the energies
and prayers of Presbyterians; and whilst they believe that
new colleges should be established to meet the - educational
demands of Providence, they think that very great care
and prudence are requisite in locating and In founding
those institutions; and , particularly do the Assembly
reommend to the friends of the colleges already m exist
ence, to endow them fully; in the meantime, to avoid
debt; to raise the standard of scholarships; and to pay
due regard to the amount of religious influence and in
structions; and generally to endeavor to make every col
lege within the bounds of the Church worthy of the ancient
form of Preebyterianism; suited to co-operate with Theo
logical Seminaries in increasing the power of ministerial
education, and able to meet the wants of the country and
the world.
Resolved, That this Assembly renew their recommends.
thin to parents in consecrating their children to God, and
training them to become worthy members of the. Church,
to dedicate such as in their judgment possess the requisite
qualifications to the holy office of the ministry.
Resolved, That this Assembly appoint the last Thursday
of February as a day of spe . elal prayer for the outpouringof
the Holy Spirit upon the rising generation, and especially
the baptized youth of the Church, the officers andstudents
of colleges, academies and all Institutions of learning In
our own and in foreign lands, and earnestly, recommend
that it be faithfully observed throughout oar Zion; and
they furthermore recommend to the churches to unite alms
with their prayers, and to take up collections on that day
for the object specified in the preamble of this report.
Resolved, That all the pastors and ministers of the
Church*he requested to preach once at discretion during
the year on a call to the Gospel micistry, setting forth the
doings of both the Church and the pulpit—that is, to por
tray the crying dentitutions of our lend, and at the same
time to hold up for consideration such things as will recom
mend the Gospel ministry as a calling. In order that
parents and youth may give its claims a respectful hearing.
.Resolrea, That we earnestly urge Presbyteries and
"Committees ad interim" to- guard with a becoming cau
tion, and a firm vigilance, the door to the holy Mike of the
ministry, so as not to admit to that sacred calling 'men
wanting In mental and moral qualifications for its high
and holy functions.
Rev. L. Merrill Miller, of New York, took a
deep interest in this Board and its work. We
have eight hundred vacant churches reported.
They should have pastors. The ptoposition
to take a collection on the last Thursday in Feb
ruary was highly commendable.
Rev. A. R. Graves, of Mississippi, was pleased
to see the recognition of the Presbyteries. They
are the depositories of power and responsibility.
He approVed of the fostering care extended by
this Board to general education.
Mr. J. B. Mitchell, of Philadelphia, made some
remarks, which could not be heard.
Dr. B. M. Smith thought we were now opening
a new regulation of important bearing—the re
quiring of a report from Colleges relative to the
conduct of the young men under the Board's aid.
It makes an invidious distinction between the
recipient of Church aid, and other young men,
equally candidates for the ministry. He did not
wish to open the door of entrance to the ministry
wider than it is. He would rather set etrioter
guards about it. He wished only deserving
men to be licensed to preach. He wanted young
men to come before the Presbyteries often, and
be well examined. He would have no young
men enter a Seminary till received by a Presby
tery and recommended; and then he would have
these, as well as the candidates at Colleges, to be
reported upon by their respective teachers. And
all reported on.
Dr. A. S. Mac Master thought the. Presbyteries
should have definite and full knowledge of all
their candidates, whether receiving aid from the
Board, orsustaining themselves. All should re
port to fiesbytery, personally or in writing,
twice every year. The supervision of candidates
is one of the most important duties of a Preaby
tery.
Mr. Alexander moved to amend, by adding
"the baptized children," as subjects of prayer.
Carried.
The resolutions were unanimously adopted.
THEOLOGICAL SEMINARIES.
Dr. Palmer, from the Committee, reported on
the North Western Seminary.
The Assembly adjourned with prayer.
Afternoon Session.
The unfinished business was resumed.
Dr. B. M. Smith moved to amend the Commit
tee's report, by calling the Theological chair, that
of Didactic and Polemic Theology.
Dr. Humphrey thought that the suggestion was
wise. The same Professor should have the whole
subject.
Dr. Williams advocated the report.
Dr. McGill would - prefer that it remain unal
tered. After the election of Professors, they
could arrange matters, and advise with the As
sembly.
Dr. Rice preferred the amendment offered.
Theological writers treat of Didactic) and Polemic
Theology together. It is impossible to separate
them entirely. Yon can best teach them together,
and cannot separate them without destroying half
the interest of both chairs.
Dr. McGill moved to refer the arrangement of
the Chairs to a Select Committee,Drs. B. M.
Smith, Humphrey, Thornwell, McGill, and Mg.
Wilson, of Allegheny.
The Committee retired, and soon brought in a
report, modifying the titles of the Professorships,
which was adopted. The whole report on the
Seminary was then adopted, unanimously ; and
nominations were made to fill the respective
chairs.
The paper, as adopted, is as follows :
Resolved. That this General Assembly do hereby accept
the donation of $1000(0, made by Mr. McCormick to them
for the endowment of four Professorships in the Presbyte
rian Theological Seminary of the North-Weal, about to be
established by this Assembly, and upon the terms and con.
ditions therein mentioned.
Resolved, That the thanks of this General Assembly be
tendered to Mr. C. H. McCormick for his munificent dona
tion, and that a copy of these resolutions be transmitted to
Mr. 0. E. McCormick by the Stated Clerk.
Resolved, That the offer of forty-five acres of land from
other gentlemen of Chicago, under certain specified condi
tions, together with similar offers, be referred to the Board
of Directors to be accepted or not, at their discretion.
The Mowing Constitution is submitted by the Commit
tee for the government of the Seminary, based as much as
possible upon the old constitution, with only such changes
es are necessitated by the transfer of the control of said
Seminary from the Synods to the Assembly. (The consti
tution is somewhat long, and will probably be published in
another way. It is understood to be very similar to those
of Princeton, Danville, and Allegheny. We omit, at least
for the present, its publication)
With a view to secure'snell amendments to the charter as
may be required by this change in the di:motion and Con
trol of this Smninary, and to provide for the legal transfer
of the property, the Committee submit to the Assembly the
following resolution :
Resolved, That the Board of Director• of the said Semi
nary for whose appointment provision is made in the eon;
stitutiotx herewith submitted, be, and they hereby are di
rected to take .such measures sa may be found properand
expedient to procure the legal tntrusthr and safe investment
of all the property of said Seminary ; and for that purpose
to procure from the Legislature of Vino* such legislation
as may be necessary to effect this object.
Should the foregoing recommendations of the Committee
be approved by the General Adembly, the way will be open
for the election of Professors, of the new Seminary, accord•
log to the folloming as a normal arrangement:
1. Ovair of DTdactic and Polemic Theology:
2. Biblical and Ecclesiastical History.
S. Historical and Pastoral Theology and Church Govern
ment.
4. Bib'leer Literature and Exegesis.
The following are the nominations :
Chair of Didactic and Polemic. Theotogy.--E: D. Mao Mao.
ter, D. D , New A Many; N. L Rice, D. D., Chicago; T. V.
Moore, D.D., Richmond; A. G. Fairchild, D.D.,Westmoreland
County. Pa.; Dr. Atwater, Princeton; Dr. ThornweP,
Charleston; Dr Breckinridge, Louisville; John gall, D.D.,
Trenton; Dr. Palmer, New Orleans.
Drs. Palmer, Tborawell, and Breckinridge,
wished their names to be withdrawn, which the
House did not do.
Chair of Bib lical and Eor2e.riaatical History.—John
Lord, D. D , Buffalo; Dr Van Beneselaer, Philadelphia;
dames 0. Id offat, D. D., Princeton; Aaron Williams D. D
Canonsburg; Willie Lord, D. D., Brooklyn; D. X. lunkin,
D. D., Hollidaysburg; S. T. Wllaon, Illinois; B. B. Wilson,
D. D., Cincinnati.
Dr. Humphrey stated that Dr. Van Rensselaer
wished his name withdrawn.
Chair of Historical and Pastoral Theology and Church
Government,—Jonatban Edwards, D. D., Philadelphia;
Nicbolaa Murray, D. D., Bllsabetlitonk; L.J. Rainy, D D.,
Louisville ; Charles W. Shields, Philadelphia; Samuel J.
Baird, New Jersey; Dr. Gurley, Wasbington City; 8.-J. P.
Anderson, 1). D., St. Louivq, R. L. Stanton, D.D.,Chillleothe ;
Jas. Clark, D. D., Philadelphia; .E; D. G4Prlnie, New York;
A. G. Rankin, D. D., New York.
Dr. Edwards stated that Dr. Gurley had ,au
tborized him to withdraw his name.
Chair of Biblical Literature and Exegesis.—James A.
Lyon, D. D., of lit issiselppi ; John W. Yeomans, D. D.. of
Danville, Pa.; S. Elliott, Oxford, Ohio; Rev. R. Elliott Wil
liams, Agra, lodic; W. M. Scott, D. D . Cincinnati; John-
F. McLaren, Allegheny; J. R. Safford, D. D.; E. C. Wines,
D. D., Washington; J. H. Rice, D.D., Louisville; James W.
Alexander, New Rork; T. V. Moore, D. D. Richmond.
Dr. Stanton wished his name to be withdrawn
from the list of nominations.
DOMESTIC MISSION'S.
Mr. Vandykevhaving the floor, gave way to
Dr. Humphrey to makn an explanation.
Dr. Humphrey—The application of the young
man who wished to go to California was made
(said Dr. Musgrave to the Committee of the
Honse).in November ; he , not to finish his studies
in the Seminary till May. Information came to
the Board that the young man bad not a reputa
tion for discretion—not his views upon a partic
ular subject, but the manner pertinacity, and
violence with which be urged his views upon his
fellow students at College, and which caused
great apprehension on the part of the Professors.
The young man also showed that his sentiments
on Presbyterianism were not fixed ; and he
brought no recommendation from his Presbytery.
Mr. Vandyke—The refusal to grant a commis
sion to this young man prevented three others
from applying for appointments to California.
Mr. V. has no want of confidence in the Board,
nor in the men who manage it; but he cannot
approve of all their policy.
Dr. B. M. Smith had offered his amendment,
(enjoining the Board to commission all suitable
applicants for California,) in good faith. If be
had made a mistake, he was honest, and now he
asked liberty to withdraw it.
Mr. Speer made some explanations.
Adjourned with prayer.
NINTH DAY.
SATURDAY, May 28041859.
The Assembly engaged in the usual devotional
exercises.
The Minutes of yesterday were read and
adopted. ,
Mr. J. L. Williams presented a report from the
Committee on Finance, which was approved.
Dr. 'Wilson, of Georgia, presented a report from
the Committee on the Form for Statistical Tables;
embracing several changes from the present
Form. It embraces a column for the number of
Baptized children, under twenty.one years of age.
After some discussion the subject was laid aside,
for the purpose of entering into elections.
Directors for Church Extension were chosen
Rev. Willi:Lai L. Breckinridge, D. D., was
eleoted to the Chair, lately occupied by Prof.
Robinson, in the Seminary at Danville. The
election was made unanimous.
Directors for the Theological Seminaries at
Princeton, Allegheny, and Danville, were elected.
Members of the Board of Foreign Missions
were chosen.
All the foregoing were, mainly, re-elections
The electiou of members of the Boards of
Domestic Missions and Education were deferred
till Tuesday morning.
Thanks were voted to gentlemen who had ten
dered donations to the Assembly, but not ac
cepted, for the North Western Theological Sem
inary. Thanks are given as cordially as though
it had suited the Assembly to accept the tenders
made.
A. W. Mitchell, M. D., presented - a report on
the subject of the pa'abled Ministers' and
Widows' Fund. The - report was accepted, and a
motion made that it be printed in the Minutes.
Adjourned with prayer.
Afterneon Session.
Mr. Monfort presented the report of the Com
mittee on Mileage. It was adopted. The Com
missioners entitled to mileage, receive 51 cents
per mile, one way.
DOMESTIC MISSIONS.
The unfinished business, being the report of
the Committee on Domestic Missions, was taken
up.
Mr. Macalister, of Philadelphia, had never be
fore known it to be objected to an Agency, that
it had met all its obligations, and had a balance
still on hand. This Board, however, was subject
to cash drafts from missionaries, at the date of
their Annual Report, to amount of some $13,000.
This would leave the actual balance in Treasury
of a little over $15,000. If this was a sin, it
was a singular cue; but not solitary, for the
Board of Publication has a balance of some $22,-
000.
Dr. B. M. Smith had leave to withdraw his
motion to enjoin the Board to commission all suit
able applicants for California.
Mr. Dorman' moved to instruct the Board to
pursue a more enlarged policy.
Dr. Anderson had long observed the Board.
He believed they did pursue a liberal and en
larged policy. He thought that the brethren who
now clamor, so much for large appropriations,
would, N such a course were pursued, clamor worse
next year, about debts incurred and appropria
tions not paid. Instead of speaking against the
Board, the Assembly should commend their pru
dence and energy.
Rev. W. M. Martin, of New Jersey, objected to
the large balance on hand.
Mr. Macallater stated that the Board bad re
ceived $35, - 000 in the months of January and
February, (the last two months in the year,) that
$7,000 more than the balance on hand. How
should the Board dispose of it? They might not
squander it. They need it for the Summer
months.
Mr. To*le, of Michigan, was thankful for the
aid received from the Board. `Scarcely , a church
in his State could have had a pastor, except for
the Board. The Board had no right to anticipate
the income of the two months - spoken of. It
should never go in debt. It should be ever ready
to meet its appropriations. The missionary wants
his money sure, and promptly.
Rev. J. GI. Riheldaffer wished the Board to
keep up with the progress of the poptdation.
.The
missionary Presbyteries he knew to be as cautions
as any others, in askiog for appropriations.
The previous question was now called, and the
fifth resolution of the Committee was adopted.
The sixth resolution was then taken up. It
suggests a Committee of Conference with the
Board, and an inquiry into the propriety of sev
eral modifications.
Rev. D. H. Cummins, of Tennessee, was sorry
to hear so many complaints against this Board.
He had confidence in it, and he believed it would
come out of the examination justified.
But, last year, the Assembly made a suggestion
to the Board, which the Board saw proper not
to comply with. This Caused several Presbyteries,
which he knew of, to withhold their contributions.
Now he wished the whole matter examined.
Possibly that Board should be removed from
Philadelphia. The Assembly 0r1852 ordered the
Board to distribute the funds according to the
wants of different parts of the Church, without
partiality. Now, he thought that the funds bad
been expended much more largely in home parts
of the Church than in others. Ile would not
complain, but make some statements, from the
last report, of inequalities. Perhaps the many ,
complaints arose from the fact that the complain
ers were fed too liberally. - He did hope the Com
mittee of •Inquiry. would be appointed, to teat
these things ; and possibly it might be found
needful to remove the Board to some more central
place. His Presbytery had put into the treasury
of the Board, always, more than they asked to
draw out. If the complainers would do so, their
complaints would Boon cease; they would get ev
ery thing they would then ask for.
The previous question was called for, and sus
tained; and the resolution was adopted. The
report of the Committee as a whole was then
adopted, nem. con., and is as follows:
1. The General Assembly gratefully recognises the bless.
Inge of the Bead of the Church upon its 'Domestic Mis
sions, and upon the labors of the Board unto which the
care of these missions has been entrusted.
2, ffibe Assembly ends in the history of the Board every
reason to cherish the settled conviction of the Church re
specting the ordinance of alms-giving and its proper ad.
ministration by the office-bearers; and It exhorts all the
congregations under its care to maintain this ordinance as
a part of religions worship.
2. The Board is instructed to establish in the city of New
Orleans an Advisory Committee, with a District Secretary,
whose duty it shall be to set forward the work of missions
in the South-West—the details to be arranged by conference
between the Board and said Committee.
4. The Baard is also empowered to make a similar ar
rangement at the. North West, if, alter consultation with
the brethren In that region, ouch a measure shall appear to
be *drillable. -
5. The atieutlou or the Board h particularly called to the
PacitiO coast as a Bald of Missions.
6 A , Oommittee of -- members shall be appoints 1 by
this Assembly with instructions to confer with the Board
and ieport to the next Assembly what changes in the or
ganisation and methods of the Board are necessary Inorder
to Itifareater'effloiency and wider lissfulnees. This 'Com
mittee is particularly charged to report on the expediency
of the folloiving measures :
Thereduction of the number of members in the Board,
and its organisation somewhat after the form of the Com
mittee on "Church Extension."
The removal of the Board to some plea. nearer the centre
of the Western Missionary fields.
'The establishment of several Faecutive Committees and
Corresponding Secretaries in different parts of the Church,
these officers to be invested with co-ordinate powers; or,
The establishment of a single central Executive Commit
tee with Advisory Committees and District Secretaries an
provided herein for the South-West.
The Committee will consider the question ante how many
officers will be needed in the Genital Board and the division
of labor among them.
The Committee will also report upon any other matters
which they may find within the range of this inquiry.
Rev. W. M. Martin, of New Jersey, offered sev
eral resolutions, enjoining the Board to appro=
print° more largely ; and urging the churches to
contribute.
Rev. J. Irwin Smith, of Wisoonsin, knew that
the missionaries wanted to receive promptly
what was promised them. The. Board must not
be in debt. It must be able, certainly, to
meet the missionaries' drafts. lie gave the testi
mony of a missionary Presbytery, to the full and
entire confidence of the Board.
Mr. Martin's resolutions were not adopted.
Rev. D. X. Junkin, D. D., was appointed to
preach the' sermon next year, on behalf of the
Board of Domestic Missions ; Dr. R. L. Stanton
to preach in behalf of Foreign Missions ; Dr.
Waill for Church Extension ; Dr. B. M. Smith
for Education; and Rev. Professor Wilson for
Publication.
On motion of Mr. Mimi:Ulster, the Board of
Missions were instructed to pay the traveling ex
penses of the Committee to be appointed under
the sixth resolution, relative to that Board.
The Comqttees on Synodical Records presented
reports.
The Assembly adjourned at the usual hour
TENTH DAY
MONDAY, May 30, 1859.
The usual time was occupied in religions exer
cises. •
Minutes of Saturday were read and approved
OVERTURES
Dr. Rice, from the Committee of Bills and
Overtures, reported on quite a number of mat.
tars.
The Presbyteries have not adopted the Over
bare on the Demission of the Ministry.
The congregation of Glasgow is transferred
from Allegheny Presbytery to New Lisbon Pres
bytery.
The Assembly approved of a proposition to ob
serve the time specified for a World's Concert of
prayer, and recommended that the churches ob
serve it duly.'
Rev. T. K. Davis' name was transferred from
the Presbytery of Stockton, to the Presbytery of
Carlisle.
The Overture of Rev. Sayres Gazley, asking a
change in the Confession of Faith, was rejected.
The Presbytery of Canton.having become ea•
tinot, the missionaries there, and going there,
were directed to meet and re-organize the Presby
tery.
An Overture from the Presbytery of Holston,
respecting the Demission of the Ministry, was
referred to the next General Assembly.
It was resolved, on Overture, that Christians
may unite with voluntary Societies for •the pro•
motion of Literature, Art, Science, Benevolence,
&0., where the principles and proceedings involve
nothing inconsistent with Gospel morality.
It was resolved, on an Overture from the Pres
bytery of Elizabethtown; that every minister in
good standing Ma an equal right to sit in Church
judicatories, whether in a pastoral charge or not.
The Presbytery of Puget Sound was authorized,
and ordered to be attached to the Synod of
the Pagifio.
In relponse to an Overture from the Presbytery
of Zanesville, asking a testimony favorable to. a
due observance of the Sabbath, it was resolved,
that the testimonies of the General Assembly are
numerous and clear; but, the claims of the Sab.
bath are to be reiterated and kept before the
minds of the people. A paper on the subject was
adopted, and an injunction to the Presbyteries
was passed.
The Presbytery of Tuscaloosa asked if a mem
ber certified from another Church, but who had
received only Roman Catholic baptism, might be
admitted. The Presbytery was referred to the
Assembly's action in 1845.
Overtures from Mississippi on an Assembly's
Commentary, were put on the docket.
An Overture from the Presbytery of Ohio, on
the subject of Temperance,was read. The As
sembly refers to the action f 1839 and 1848, call
ing the attention of Synods and Presbyteries to
the matter.
Au Overture from the Synod of Philadelphia,
on the subject of the lawfulness of marrying a de
ceased wife's sister, was laid aside without any
definite action.
An Overture on " New Testimony," was read,
and put on the docket.
An Overture on Testimony in Judicial cases,
was answered, by resolving that such testimony
need not be epread out fully on the Record Book;
but that it is sufficient if the same be carefully
preserved on file. Testimony kept on ffie is to be
regarded as part of " the record' to be read in
oases of Appeal, &c.
A few other minor matters of Overture were
presented by Dr. Rice, and disposed of. Tbus
twenty-six Overtures were presented, and all ex
cept two wee decided upon in a little more than
an hour. [This is the most rapid transaction of
business that we have ever known.]
SYSTEMATIC BENEVOLENCE
Dr. Smith, from the Committee on Systematic
Benevolence, reported, that of the one hundred
and sixty-eight Presbyteries, one hundred and
one have taken action so far as to recommend the
subject to their congregations. Forty-four have
sent up regular report.. The following resolu
tions were presented and adopted :
Resolved, That the Presbyteries which have not taken
the action herein contemplated, are directed, 1, To require
their Stated Oinks to enter on their Spring Docket the call
ing of the roll of miuiete•a and churches, to ascertain
whether they have adopted and carried out any plan of
securing the contributions of the people to the objects of
benevolence recognized by the Aeeembly ; 2d, To report in
writing to the Assembly; (a) the number of contributions
directed to be made by the Presbytery; (b) the number
made, arranging them under the names of the several ob•
jects directed. •
Resolved. That the Board of Publication is directed to
prepare, for the use of the Stated Clerks, blank forme suit
at, le for facilitating the execution of the foregoing order.
Resolved, That the Board also prepare for the use of the
'churches, blank forms for contributions, not .exceeding
three varieties, making a selection for this purpose from
such existing methods as may be commended to the atten
tion of the Publishing Committee.
Resolved, That the Board, farthOr, prepare similar blank
forms, not exceeding three varieties, for the ure of Sabbath
Schools, availing themselves of such methods as may be
suggested by persons who have interested themselves In the
preparation and use of suitable 'plans for training our
youth to habits of Christian benevolence.
CHURCH CHARTERS AND INCORTORA,
TIONS
Mr. Miller, from a Committee of the last
Assembly on an Overture from the Presbytery of
Genesee River, on the subject of Trustees and
Incorporations, presented a long and able Report.
Ecclesiastioil.
Rev. E. HENRY'S Post Office address is
changed from. Bunker Hill, Ohio, to Dills.
hero', Dearborn Co., Indiana, where he
desires his friends and correspondents to
address him.
Rev. JAMES F. KENNEDY'S Post Office ad
dress is changed from Dickinson, Pa., to
Cbambersburg, Pa.
•
Rev. R. P. TAYLOR. has been received by
the Presbytery of Cherokee, from the As.
sedate Reformed Presbytery of Ten
nessee.
Rev. JUHN B. Mooux's Post Office address
is changed from Atlanta, Illinois, to Ot
taws, 111.
Rev. WM. P. KOUTz'S Post Office address is
changed from Logansport, Ind., to Monti
cello, Ind.
Rev. SAMUEL E. HLBEEN has received and
accepted a call from the Second church,
Peoria, 111.
Mr. D. R. COLMERY, who was licensed to
preach the Gospel, by the Presbytery of
Columbus, at its late meeting, has. en
gaged to supply the church of Greenville,
Ohio, for the ensuing six months. Cor
respondents are desired to address him at
Greenville, Darke County, Ohio.
Rev. W. M. STRYKER has received and ac
cepted a call from the church of Oska
loosa, lowa.
for the Presbyterian Banner and Advocate
A Card. •
MESSRS. EDITOSS : 7 --1.0 leaving my church
on Friday last, a letter was handed to me,
signed in behalf of the Ladies of the Two
Ridge congregation, containing the kindest
expression:4 of sympathy and regard for me
in my work; wishing me for the sake of my
health at comfort, to take recreation for a
few week., by a trip to the Assembly, at In
dianapolis, and to any other points I, might
see proper to vis;t ; and in this letter was
enfolded a large number of bank notes, in
tended as a gift to sustain the expenses.
Permit me through your paper to express
my profound gratitude to the Ladies for
these expressions of regard; and may the
Lord reward them largely by Ilia grace, and
encourage them in that Writ of liberality'to
the cause of Christ, which bas of late been
growing eb rapidly, especitlly among the fe-
males of that church.
gam an 4bhocatt,
5 , 1111.11111..... $1.50, In advanee; or In Cl.bi
itaa; or, dative/ad at resldanens of itbleri■
berm, $5.00. Nee Proirpestms, on Third Page*
StIAN 111 ii AI. ■ abould too prompt; a little
whils beforo the year expiring that Ivo stay
make foliar/armament, for a steady supply.
India RED WILAPPII3I indicates that we
desiro a roneows.l. If, however, in the huts
a/ mailbag, this signal should be oudittsd, wo
hope oar friends will still not forget as.
RICItITIPAItCES.—Sosid payment by sale
hands, who. isouvessleut. Or, send by mail,
siociosiug with ordinary ears, and troubling
nobody with a knowledge of what you are
doing. Per a large amount, Mini a Draft, or
large *Otos. Por Miaow two papers, sud Cold
or oinnaatl notes,
WO MARE CHAMOIS, Neste postage etaimPlit
is bieltitar still, send for =tors paper', say
or 816v oot1 Romeserri or 0.1 for Si'hirtp-tkrsa
mars bora.
DIFLIIICW al; Lattirra and Oosaaaeuileationa
to DAVID NisKINIIIIT & CO!, PlitabliTikg
pa.
ACKNOWLEDGMENT - Mr. John eta:
bertson, Librarian, acknowledges the follow
ing contributions to the Board of Co'portage:
Indiana congregation, Saltsburg Presbytery,
Synod of Pittsburgh, $20,00; Middlesex
tong , Allegheny Presbytery, Synod of Al
legheny, $7.00.
D. R CAMPBELL.
DAVID MoKINNEY,
JAMES ALLISON, PROPRIETOIRE.
STEPHEN LITTLE,
PITTSBURGH, JUNE 4, 1859
General Reformed Presbyterian Synod,
New Side.
This body met in the church on Broad
Street, Philadelphia, on Thursday of last
week, and was opened with a sermon by the
last Moderator, Rev. Mr, Wylie. Rev.
John Nevin was elected Moderator, Rev.
Dr. McLeod, of New York, and Rev. Wm.
Sterritt, Clerks. The principal subjects
presented for consideration, were the matter
of Ministerial Education, Union with the
United Presbyterian Church, and Foreign
Missions.
North-West Seminary.
The location of this Seminary is at length
determined; the Directors are chosen; and
the Professors were elected on Tuesday
afternoon. The Professo-s are' as follows :
N. L. Rice, D.D., of Chicago, Professor , of
Didactic and Polemic Theology; Willis Lord ;
D.D., of Brooklyn, N. Y., Biblical and
Ecclesiastical History; L. J. Halsey, D.D.,
of Louisville, Sy., Historical and Pastoral
Theology and Church Government ; W. M.
Scott, D.D., of Cincinnati, Biblical Litera
ture and Exegesis. . Dr. Rice was elect
ed by a majority of one hundred
and fifty. This Institution thus enters
upon its career of usefulness with a com
plete endowment, and a full and able
Faculty. It occupies an important position,
and has a great work to do.
Elden Prayer-Meeting.
The following excellent letter arrived too
late for last week, but will be read with in
terest now. We would be pleased to receive
many letters of equal merit from the Elder
ship.
Measles. Ertrrons :—An interesting feature in
the history of the present General Assembly is
the formation of an Elders Daily Prayer Meet.
ing. The idea was suggested by one or two of
the delegates, who bad a call read from the Mod.
crater's desk, asking the Eldership to meet "for
prayer and conference " at an appointed place,
the next day. For two or three days the meeting
was held in the lecture room of the First Presby
terian church, bat soon the interest became
greater and the attendance so much larger that
the body of the church was thrown open for their
occupancy. The services are brief and pointed
in their character. lam not aware that a meet
ing of this sort has ever been held before. I
have never seen so many together in one place.
Our Church is represented from all parte of the
land; brought together in this morning meeting
by one common bond of interest. It is pleasant
to watch the different characters that are here
met. Those from the East tell us of the wonder
ful works of God which they have witnessed in
the " answers to prayer" during the last year.
Of the many remarkable instances of conversion
that have occurred; and the greater amount of
efficiency and labor that has been called forth on
the part of the pastors and Sessions which they
represent.
And then we have the hard-working, selfsacri
ficting representative of the very 'far West. He
lays down what he has to say with his fwd as well
as his voice. He is energetic. It touches one's
heart to hear the recital of his efforts to build up
the Church and to "gather in souls," and to see
the great tear dropping over his rough and sun
burnt oheik, as he also tells of the wonderful
" power of prayer."
I think this prayer , meeting will do great good;
there are influences at work here which will go
down through our Presbyteries, to all the
churches; the Eldership of the Church, if its
energies were but called out, is competent to ex
ert a tremendous influence for good, and might be
come a much greater and more efficient aid to the
ministry.
We have plenty of preaching ; most of it is
done by what are called the prominent members
of the Assembly; I think the lesser lights have
hardly a fair show.
The Assembly is unusually large, and promises
to be a very interesting one. An ELDBA.
Indianapolis, May 23d, 1839.
Temperance Convention.
The Mass Meeting on this important sub
ject, announced some time azo, was held on
Wednesday of last week. The attendance
was not large, but encouraging. The follow
ing resolutions, after discussions of the evils
of intemperance, and of the methods to be
employed for its removal, were adopted :
Resolved, That inasmuch as license laws,
however stringent, give to the traffic in in.
toxicating drink, the highest earthly sane.
Hon, we can never hope to suppress intem
perance while they exist on our statute
books; nor can we expect ever to educate
correctly the public sentiment on the moral
character of intemperance, while so great an
immorality as this traffic is sanctioned by
our /alas.
Resolved, That human laws, having for
their objeottthe security of life, liberty, and
happiness, utterly fail of that object until
they suppress the sale of intoxicating drinks
as a beverage.
Resolved, That we, as temperance men,
while we discuss fully all the moral aspects
of this subject, showing the sinfulness of
intemperance, and all that contributes to it,
will also labor steadily and perseveringly for
the enactment of a law utterly prohibiting
this traffic, except for medicinal and me
chanical purposes...
Resolved, That the workings of the prey.
ent prohibitory law in the State of Maine,
where not a single grog shop is publicly
known as such, is sufficient, conclusive, and
satisfactory 'to all reasonable minds, that
prohibition is the only true leg al preventive
of the general system of drunenness, with
its attendant evils, now so prevalent through.
out the land.
Resolved, That we will use all honorable
means for the repeal of the present license
law, and, if possible, to erect upon the ruins
thereof, the statute of prohibition.
Resolved, That the friends of temperance
in each county are hereby requested to send
delegates to a State Convention, to be held
on the day of —, 1859, at the -.
Owing to the amount of matter from the
General Assembly in our present number ,
we. are unable, to give any fuller account of
this meeting, and also to omit many other
things.
The Assembly of 1859
This venerable body, in session at In.
dianapolis, conducts its business with great
harmony. There is deep devotion to the
cause of the Lord and Master; great respect
to the corytenies of gentlemanly and Chris-
Can life; and great good feeling on the part
of the members toward each other. The
discussions are animated. There has been
more truly instructive speaking than we ever
before heard at an Assembly. There are
many men able in debate, but no one has
assumed a leadership. No one attempts to
monopolize the speaking. There is neither
sectionalism nor partyism in the louse.
There are specific interests brought forward,
but no party movements. Never were there
stronger evidences of the unity of the Old
School Presbyterian Church, on the founda
tion- of the Prophets and Apostles, and in
supporting the doctrines, order, and policy
of the Church.
FOREIGN MISSIONS
The interest in the cause of Foreign Bilis.
dons is so deep, and the business of our
Board is conducted with soinuph energy and
prudence, that the report was hailed with
joy; and the speaking on it was all on one
side—congratulatory, encouraging, thankful,
reliant. A' number of young men have
offered themselves for the foreign field, and
the Board anxiously desire means of send.
ing them forth. The awakened Christian
spirit in the churches, will certainly prompt
to the needed liberality.
EDUCATION.
The educational interests of our Church
are in a more prosperous condition than at
any preceding time. There is a large
increase of candidates, and an increase of
contributions adequate to their sustenance.
Let the supplies of both increase year after
year.
Another feature in this Board's report,
was highly favorable—their purpose to dis
pense with the services of one of their Sec
retaries, and to rely upon Presbyteries, pas
tors, and elders, on the Systematic Scheme,
to supply the Treasury's wants. The feel
ing of the Church is strongly set against
the paying of large sums for Agencies, and
the attempt to evade its force, by employing
extra officers, under the name of Secreta
ries, is well repudiated.
Secretary Wood having retired, to accept
the Presidency'of a College, this Board now
employs but three' officers; two Secretaries
and a Treasurer. Their united salaries
would be $4,600 ; but the Corresponding
Secretary serves gratuitously, which reduced
the demand for office labor, to $2,8041 In
the office of the Board of Domestic Mis
sions there are also three persons; a Secre
tary, Treasurer, and Clerk, whose aggregate
salaries is $4,500. The official equipment
of each of these Boards, in the offices at
Philadelphia, is thus nearly similar in num
bers and' expense. The Education cause
has been somewhat of a favorite of ours,
and we rejoice in being able to commend it
for its economy, as well as for its efficiency
and its high aims.
THE SABBATH.
The Lord gave his people another delight.
ful day for worship; clear, cool, walking
pleasant, churches all open, and all except
Episcopal and Romanist, were occupied by
Presbyterian ministers. The congregations
did not all present such crowds as they did
on the previous Sabbath. A few, where
favorite names had been announced, were
densely packed; others were well filled, arid
a few we heard of that had many vacant
seats. Men, it is to be hoped, go to church,
generally, to worship; but still, they think
it a matter of vast importance who leads
them in their devotions - , and who declares
to them the glad tidings, and who reproves,
rebukes, and exhorts.
The Sacramental service was solemn..
The Third church was occupied and well
filled. A number of the citizens united
with the Assembly. It was held at 31
o'clock P. M., and was brief and appropriate.
Rev. Dr. Smith introduced the ordinance,
Dr. Rankin, of New Jersey, distributed the
bread, and Dr. Anderson dispensed the
cup. The season will be remembered with
interest.
THE NORTH-WESTERN THEOLOGICAL SEM-
INARY.
This Institution is now likely to have a
fixed habitation, as well as a name. The
decision of the Assembly by a vote of two
hundred and fiftytwo for Chicago against
seventy-one for Indianapolis, is so decisive
that it should satisfy all minds. The sub
ject had been fairly given to the Assembly.
It had been discussed in the papers, and
Commissioners had been elected in view of
it. Propositions were fairly made to the
Assembly, and then the whole matter was
agitated in. the House, for several days. It
hence becomes every good Presbyterian to
acquiesce. Some doubtless feel greatly dis
appointed; but such things belong to sub
lunary affairs. The decision is made beyond
recall, and now, let all go to work to make
the Institution a blessing.
The liberality of Mr. McCormick deserves.
great commendation. It is the more to be
rejoiced in, as it costs him no sacrifice of
comforts. He has much still left; much
yet to spare, and to perform duty with, at
the calla of God's providence. He is re
presented as holding to the true Christian
principle, that every man is, in his tempo
ralities—in his all—a trustee and steward of
the Lord. He holds everything subseivient
to his Master's call. Much money will yet
be needed, to erect Seminary buildings, and
Professors' houses; and also to procure a
Library, &c., &e. It is to be hoped that
now, inasmuch as the Seminary is a certain
ty, as to its existence and location, and as
its leading features, are determined, the
hands of the liberal will spurn delay; and
opposition will be a thing unknown.
At the time of this writing, the period
usually devoted to the Assembly's Sessions
has nearly closed. The attendance contin
ued very large up to Saturday, and is still,
on Monday, much beyond what is common.
But the business is not yet half done. Much
of it is likely to be gone through with on
very little dispassion, and some, which is
not urgent, will be laid over for more de
liberation by the churches, previous to any
decision by the Assembly. •
The goodness of God has been very great,
especially in his granting to his servants a,
large measure of the spirit of peace and love.
. notice of the action of the Assembly
on• Domestio Missions , ; Publication, and
sundry other matters, must be deferred till
next week. Id]