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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of God's Answers, by Clara M. S. Lowe
+
+This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most
+other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions
+whatsoever.  You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of
+the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at
+www.gutenberg.org.  If you are not located in the United States, you'll have
+to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook.
+
+Title: God's Answers
+       A Record Of Miss Annie Macpherson's Work at the Home of
+       Industry, Spitalfields, London, and in Canada
+
+Author: Clara M. S. Lowe
+
+Posting Date: October 13, 2014 [EBook #6713]
+Release Date: October, 2004
+First Posted: January 18, 2003
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK GOD'S ANSWERS ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Avinash Kothare, Tom Allen, Juliet Sutherland,
+Charles Franks and the Online Distributed Proofreading
+Team. This file was produced from images generously made
+available by the Canadian Institute for Historical
+Microreproductions.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+GOD'S ANSWERS:
+
+A RECORD OF
+
+MISS ANNIE MACPHERSON'S WORK
+
+AT THE HOME OF INDUSTRY, SPITALFIELDS, LONDON,
+AND IN CANADA.
+
+CLARA M. S. LOWE
+
+"Peace, peace be unto thee, and peace be to thine helpers; for thy God
+helpeth thee."
+
+--1 CHRON. xii. 18.
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS.
+
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+1861-1869.
+
+Prayer of Hon. and Rev. Baptist Noel--Residence in Cambridgeshire--
+Visit to London in 1861, and first attendance at Barnet Conferences--
+Visit of Rev. W. and Mrs. Pennefather--East of London, 1861--Left
+Cambridgeshire, 1865--Work in Bedford Institute--1866: Voyage to New
+York and return, 1867--First girl rescued--Matchbox-makers--First boy
+rescued--Revival Refuge open for boys and girls--1868: Home of
+Industry secured--1869: Opened.
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+1869-1870.
+
+Emigration of families--A visitor's impressions--The great life-work
+--Emigration of the young, begun 1870--First party of boys to Canada
+with Miss Macpherson and Miss Bilbrough--Their reception--Mr. Merry
+takes oat second party out boys--Miss Macpherson returns to England
+and takes out a party of girls--Canadian welcome and happy homes--
+Canadian pastor's story.
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+1870-1871.
+
+Workers' meetings at Home of Industry--Training Home at Hampton
+opened--Personal experiences--Welcome in Western Canada--Help for a
+Glasgow Home--Scottish Ferryman--"Out of the mouths of babes and
+sucklings"
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+1872.
+
+The need of a Home further West--Burning of the Marchmont Home--Home
+restored by Canadian gifts--Miss Macpherson and Miss Reavell arrive
+in Canada--First visit to Knowlton in the East--Belleville Home
+restored by Canadian friends--Help for the Galt Home--Miss Macpherson
+returns to England--Miss Reavell remains at Galt
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+1872-1874.
+
+Letter from Rev. A. M. W. Christopher--Letter from Gulf of St.
+Lawrence--Mrs. Birt's sheltering Home, Liverpool--Letter to Mrs.
+Merry--Letter from Canada--Miss Macpherson's return to England--
+Letter of cheer for Dr. Barnardo--Removal to Hackney Home
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+1875-1877.
+
+Mrs. Way's sewing-class for Jewesses--Bible Flower Mission--George
+Clarke--Incidents in Home work--The Lord's Day--Diary at sea--Letters
+of cheer from Canada
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+1877-1879.
+
+"They helped every one his neighbour"--Miss Child, a fellow labourer
+--The work in Ratcliff Highway--Strangers' Rest for Sailors--"Welcome
+Home"--"Bridge of Hope"--Miss Macpherson's twenty-first voyage to
+Canada--Explosion on board the "Sardinian"--Child-life in the Galt
+Home--The Galt Home now devoted to children from London, Knowlton to
+those from Liverpool, and Marchmont to Scottish Emigrants
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+1879-1880.
+
+Experiences among Indians--Picnic in the Bush--Distribution Of
+Testaments--"Till He Come"--"A Home and a hearty Welcome"
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+Questions and Answers--Sorrowful cases--Testimonies from those who
+have visited Canada--Stewardship
+
+
+
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+BY
+
+THE REV. JOHN MACPHERSON,
+
+_Author of "The Life of Duncan Mathieson."_
+
+
+From East London to West Canada is a change pleasing to imagine.
+From dusky lane and fetid alley to open, bright Canadian fields is,
+in the very thought, refreshing. A child is snatched from pinching
+hunger, fluttering rags, and all the squalor of gutter life; from a
+creeping existence in the noisome pool of slum society is lifted up
+into some taste for decency and cleanliness; from being trained in
+the school whose first and last lesson is to fear neither God nor
+man, is taught the beginnings of Christian faith and duty, and by a
+strong effort of love and patience is borne away to the free,
+spacious regions of the western hemisphere, of which it may be said,
+as of the King's feast, "yet there is room," and where even a hapless
+waif may get a chance and a choice both for this world and the world
+that is to come. This is a picture on which a kind heart loves to
+rest. But who shall make the picture real?
+
+Go and first catch your little Arab, if you can. I say, if you can;
+for he is too old to be caught by chaff, and you shall need as much
+guile as any fowler ever did. Then with patient hands bestow on his
+body its first baptism of clean water, a task often unspeakably
+shocking; reduce to fit size and shape a cast-off suit humbly begged
+for the occasion, and give him his first experience of decent
+clothing. Thereafter, proceed to the work, sometimes the most trying
+ever undertaken, of taming this singularly acute, desperately sly,
+and often ferociously savage little Englishman, training him to be
+what he is not, or harder task still, to be not what he is. Having,
+by dint of much pains and many prayers, obtained, as you hope, some
+beginnings of victory over the most wayward of wills, and the most
+unaccountably strange of mixed natures, with its intellectual
+sharpness and moral bluntness, its precocious knowingness and
+stereotyped childishness, its quickness to learn and slowness to
+unlearn, prepare for the next stage of your enterprise. Lay out your
+scheme of emigration, get the money where you can, that is to say,
+call it flown from heaven and wile it out of earthly pockets,
+anticipate all possible emergencies and wants by land and sea, finish
+for the time the much epistolary correspondence to which this same
+fragment of humanity has given rise, tempt the deep with your
+restless charge, bear the discomforts of the stormiest of seas, and
+inwardly groan at the signs of other and worse tempests ready ever to
+burst forth in the Atlantic of that young sinner's future course; and
+when after many weeks of anxious thought, fatiguing travel, and
+laborious inquiry you find a home for the child, fold your hands,
+give thanks and say, "What an adventure! What a toil! But now at
+length it is finished!" And yet perhaps it is not half finished.
+
+Multiply all this thought and feeling, all this labour and prayer a
+thousandfold; and imagine the work of a woman as tenderly attached to
+home and its peaceful ways as any one of her sisters in the three
+kingdoms, who has made some twenty-eight voyages across the Atlantic
+"all for love and nothing for reward;" has, by miracles of prayerful
+toil and self-denying kindness, rescued from a worse than Egyptian
+bondage over three thousand waifs and strays, borne them in her
+strong arms to the other side of the world, and planted them in a
+good land; meanwhile, in the intervals of travel, facing the perils
+and storms of the troubled sea of East London society at its very
+worst, and from a myriad wrecks of manhood and womanhood, snatching
+the stragglers not yet past all hope, and, in a holy enthusiasm of
+love, parting with not a little of her own life in order that those
+dead might live.
+
+The outer part of the story alone can be told: the inner part only
+God and the patient toiler on this field can know. Yet the inner work
+is by far the greater. The thought, the cares, the fears, the
+prayers, the tears, the anguish, the heart-breaking disappointments,
+and the fiery ordeals of spirit by which alone the motive is kept
+pure and the flame of a true zeal is fed,--in short, all the lavish
+expenditure of soul that cannot be spoken, or written, or known,
+until the Omniscient Recorder, who forgets nothing and repays even
+the good purpose of the heart, will reveal it at the final award, is
+by far the most important service as it is ever the most toilsome and
+painful.
+
+In the work of the kingdom of God on earth the true worker is in
+point of importance first. Apart from the wise, holy, beneficent
+soul, even the truth of the Gospel is but a dead letter. It is in the
+intelligence, loveliness, magnanimity and sweetness of a human
+spirit, touched finely by His own grace, that the Holy Ghost finds
+His chief instrumentality. Preparation for a good work is usually
+begun in early life, and the worker, whose story is to fill the
+following pages, unconsciously learnt her first lessons for this
+service in her father's house. There was, indeed, seemingly little to
+be learned of any rare sort in the quiet village of Campsie, where
+life passed as peacefully as the clouds sailing along the peaceful
+heavens. Almost the only break in the even tenor of those days was an
+occasional sojourn in the house of her uncle, the Rev. Dr. Edwards, a
+minister of the United Presbyterian Church in Glasgow, where that
+venerable soldier of the cross still lingers, as if halfway betwixt
+the Church militant and the Church triumphant But whether in the
+father's house or in the uncle's manse, kind and truthful speech was
+the coin current, a good example the domestic stock-in-trade, and an
+interchange of cheerful, loving service the main business. It was a
+quiet school, whose very hum was peaceful; and yet the schooling was
+thorough; things strong often grow as quietly as things feeble. The
+oak rises as silently in the forest as the lily in the garden. Strong
+characters, too, under any conditions of life, school themselves much
+more than they are schooled. Active, inquisitive, resolute, and
+possessing a fair share of the national _perfervidum ingenium_,
+not without some tincture of those elements of the Scottish character
+known as the "canny" and the "dour," our worker early developed that
+robust vigour of mind and body which has so long stood the wear and
+tear of severely trying work.
+
+One passage of significance in the family history deserves notice,
+especially as suggesting a peculiar feature in her early training and
+supplying a link in the chain of providential events. In work among
+the young her father was an enthusiast. With a heart bigger than her
+own family circle, her mother took in two orphans to foster and rear.
+Thus in the work of caring for the outcast and the forlorn Annie
+Macpherson was "to the manner born." Inheriting her father's
+enthusiasm and her mother's sympathetic nature, the quick-witted,
+warm-hearted girl would not fail to note the equal footing enjoyed by
+the stranger children, and would know the reason why: the much tact
+employed to keep the new and difficult relations sweet would engage
+her attention; and the exceeding tenderness with which the motherless
+little ones were treated, would be a very practical Gospel to our
+young scholar in Christian philanthropy. Were matters sometimes
+strained? did little jars arise and a shadow now and then gather on
+the faces of the strangers because their own mother was not? The wise
+foster-mother would set all right again by some merry quip, some
+gleesome turn, some one of those playful gleams of humour which
+furnish a key to the secret of successful work among the young. To be
+a mother to those orphans, to make life in its duties and joys, as
+far as possible, the same to them as if they had not lost their own
+mother, ay, and to teach them to gather the brightest roses from the
+thorniest bushes, was at once a good work in itself, and a model for
+one who was destined to similar service, only on an immensely wider
+scale and on a tenfold more difficult field. The sisterly fostering
+of the orphans was a providential training for her future life-work.
+To learn to love and to serve over and above the claims of mere
+natural affection, could not fail to enlarge the heart and awaken the
+sympathies of a quick, susceptible child. Little did her mother know
+what she was doing when she took the orphans to her bosom. She only
+thought to make a warm home and a bright future for the hapless pair;
+but in effect she was preparing a warm home and a bright future for
+thousands of the poorest children on God's earth.
+
+But there was something better in store. Girlish days swept by much
+as usual--the rapid growth of warm thought and feeling making each
+revolving year a continuous springtide, an opening summer. At
+nineteen, Annie Macpherson looked out on a world that always promises
+more to youthful eyes than it ever fulfils. Eager hope was drawing
+much on a future whose furthest horizon was Time. Suddenly a shadow
+fell. A word spoken by a friend was the vehicle of a divine message.
+A more distant and awful horizon arose to view: Time with its hopes
+and joys, like a thin mist in early morning, vanished in the light of
+eternity; and quickly from that young heart, pierced with a new
+sorrow, went up the prayer, "God be merciful to me a sinner!"
+
+How little the world understands that same old prayer. Yonder afar
+off stands a man who, having trafficked in all iniquity, having
+matured in wickedness, and perfected himself in the fine art of
+dodging truth and conscience, is at length found out in the thicket
+of his own vices by a bull's eye that glares on him like hell. Well
+it befits such an one, even the world admits, to smite upon his
+breast and cry for mercy. But for a girl in her teens, an innocent,
+merry-hearted, pure-minded young thing, to raise a cry for mercy like
+a very publican or a prodigal, is confounding to the world's sense of
+propriety and measure in things; and hence that world is angry, and
+in effect repudiates the need of so much mercy, of so much abasement
+and urgency in a case like this. The root and rise of this cry for
+mercy the natural man does not understand; but that soul knows it
+right well, where the lightnings of Omniscient Holiness have gleamed
+and the shadows of God's anger have fallen.
+
+The cry was heard. Light arose on that troubled soul, the Saviour
+appeared and drew the sinking one out of the waters. Even where there
+is little to be changed outwardly, conversion is always followed by
+remarkable effects; the light of the morning is like a new creation
+on the cultivated field as well as on the barren moor. Our young
+convert saw everything in a new light. She understood now, as she had
+not before, why her mother, stealing precious hours from sleep,
+wearied her fingers and weakened her eyes with the self-imposed task
+of providing for the necessities of children not her own. If a ruling
+motive is one of the greatest things in the secret of a human life,
+the grandest of all forces on earth is the love of Christ. This she
+felt, and it was to her a divine revelation. From the feeble
+starlight of natural sympathies she had passed into the clear day of
+Christian affections, and she now knew the secret joy and power of
+self-sacrifice. A hundred lessons and practical illustrations given
+her by both her parents were suddenly lighted up with a new meaning,
+and clothed with a beauty she had not heretofore seen, and a power
+she had not hitherto felt. All she had learned before of truth, and
+prudence, and kindness, she learned over again, and learned with the
+quickness characteristic of the young convert. Very soon her whole
+treasury of knowledge and feeling, of experience and character, was
+laid with youthful jubilance on the altar of the Lord. From that hour
+she began to work for Christ with an intensity of enthusiasm that
+ever since has known no abatement.
+
+
+
+
+GOD'S ANSWERS.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+1861-1869.
+
+Prayer of Hon. and Rev. Baptist Noel--Residence in Cambridgeshire--
+Visit to London in 1861, and first attendance at Barnet Conferences--
+Visit of Rev. W. and Mrs. Pennefather--East of London, 1861--Left
+Cambridgeshire, 1865--Work in Bedford Institute--1866: Voyage to New
+York and return, 1867--First girl rescued--Matchbox makers--First boy
+rescued--Revival Refuge open for boys and girls--1868: Home of
+Industry secured--1869: Opened.
+
+
+The winter of 1860-61 is a time to be had much in remembrance before
+the Lord. It was then that the East of London, with all its sins and
+sorrows, was laid as a heavy, burden on the heart of His faithful and
+beloved servant Reginald Radcliffe.
+
+Before the commencement of his labours, a few Christian friends met
+for prayer at the invitation of the Hon. and Rev. Baptist Noel. The
+East of London, and its "stunning-tide of human care and crime," was
+not the only thought of that revered man of God. His faith looked
+forward to greater things, and one well-remembered petition was, that
+blessing through the work then to be begun in that deeply degraded
+and neglected region, might not be stayed there, but might flow from
+thence to far-off lands. One then present, the Dowager Lady Rowley,
+was not long permitted to sow precious seed with her own hand, but
+was instrumental in the fulfilment of this petition, as it was
+through her leading that Miss Macpherson's voice was first heard in
+the East of London.
+
+At that time Miss Macpherson was residing in the neighbourhood of
+Cambridge with her sister and brother-in-law, Mr. Merry, and, was
+already a worker in the Lord's vineyard.
+
+She thus writes of the year 1861:--
+
+"It was a turning point in my life. I made a pilgrimage to London to
+attend the preaching of Reginald Radcliffe in the City of London
+Theatre, Shoreditch. There I met Dr. Elwin. On the following evening,
+at the Young Men's Christian Association, Great Marlborough Street,
+he introduced me to Lady Rowley, Mr. Morgan, and many other Christian
+friends. Through them I was led to attend the next Barnet Conference,
+where I learned what it was to wait for the coming of the Lord."
+
+With this bright and blessed hope she returned to work with a
+strength and power before unknown. Many souls had already been
+awakened, but the full tide of blessing had not yet come. In the
+villages around her hundreds of labourers were employed in digging
+for coprolites, a fossil which, when ground, is useful as manure.
+Among these men were many of the wildest wanderers, and Miss
+Macpherson's heart was deeply stirred for their spiritual welfare,
+and her time and strength were given to reach them by every means in
+her power. She had established evening schools, lending libraries and
+coffee-sheds, and of these and further efforts she wrote:--
+
+"Second to the preaching of the gospel, we lay every laudable snare
+to induce men to learn to read and write. In doing this, spare time
+is occupied to the best account, and the enemy is foiled in some of
+his thousand-and-one ways of ensnaring the toil-worn navvy at the
+close of day.
+
+"The more our little band goes forward, the more we feel that drink,
+in all its forms and foolish customs, must be resisted,--first, by
+the powerful influence of a felt example; and secondly, by gently and
+kindly instructing the minds of those amongst whom we labour as to
+its hurtful snares. We are accused by some of putting this subject
+before the blessed gospel. God forbid! But when we look on every
+reclaimed one and know that this was his besetting sin, we regard the
+giving it up as the rolling away of the stone before the Saviour's
+voice, 'Come forth,' can be obeyed.
+
+"These first endeavours to spread the gospel story in a more
+enlarged way were made in villages where the Rev. C. H. Spurgeon had
+laboured when not yet twenty years of age, and where souls had been
+blessed through the youthful preacher. Some of these converts became
+my helpers, and are co-workers to this day.
+
+"It was in 1863 that I first became an almoner for others, whilst
+filled with a desire to build a missionhall among the coprolite
+diggers in Cambridgeshire.
+
+"The friends attending the Barnet Conference heard of my wish and
+shared my burden."
+
+The following letter to Dr. Elwin shows the sympathy that he felt in
+her work:--
+
+"My DEAR FRIEND,--Thanking you for your daily remembrance of my
+continual wants in this the Lord's work among these poor migratory
+coprolite diggers, I must say it was indeed refreshing to think that
+this little hidden vineyard was laid on your heart to present to the
+Lord at the Bristol Conference. The answer has come, and now it is my
+blessed privilege to ask you to rejoice and praise our loving Father
+for another six souls born anew. Yes, dear brother, they are those I
+have laid before you again and again to plead for, that the dead form
+of godliness might be broken down. Though diggers, they are residents
+in a neighbouring village, and have attended my ploughmen's Bible-class
+for some years. From the mouths of many witnesses, in a series
+of outdoor gatherings every Lord's day evening in the past summer,
+they have heard, on their own village green, a present, free, and
+full salvation.
+
+"Is it not kind of the Master to employ us feeble women in His
+service, by allowing us to use our quiet influence for Him, and to do
+many little things, such as inviting wanderers to listen, providing
+hymns and seats, also refreshment for those sent to deliver the
+King's message? And oh! it is indeed a hallowed privilege to be a
+'Hur,' to hold up the hands of the speaker, and watch the index of
+the soul as the message of love or of warning falls; to slip in and
+out of the group, and meet the trembling soul with a blessed promise,
+or grasp the hand with Christian sympathy. Then for us women such
+service affords opportunity of giving the little leaflet or book,
+such as the case requires, and following it up in the home with Bible
+in hand.
+
+"The Lord was very good in sending me helpers, _i.e._, brothers,
+to speak during all those summer Lord's-Day evenings. On one occasion
+I was left alone, and yet not alone. At another time my faith was
+tried. No one had come to speak. The people had gathered. I opened my
+Testament on the passage, 'Come and see' (John iv.) If the Samaritan
+woman was led so boldly to say to wicked men, 'Come and see,' surely
+my Lord knew my burden, and my need for a brother to speak to that
+village gathering. We sang a hymn. I was led to pray. On arising from
+the grass, a young man came round the corner and said, 'Miss, the Lord
+has laid it on my heart to come here and preach to-night. Can I be of
+any service?' He took for his text, 'Yet there is room.'
+
+"I know you like to trace the links in the chain of blessing, so I
+will enter a little into detail. One village displayed the most
+perfect outward form of all that is considered correct as to the
+using of means. There were clubs, saving of money, young men well
+dressed and regular at their place of worship, four nights a week at
+their evening school; but oh! my friend, not one soul of them with a
+warm heart towards the Lord Jesus Christ. They read and answered my
+questions on Scripture better, and sought after the library books
+with more interest, than any in the other villages; but it was all
+head-work, no heart; all intellect, no love. On Christmas Day six of
+these joined our coprolite party to tea, and from eight to ten solemn
+prayer seemed laid on every heart for them; and again the following
+evening nineteen young men met to pray still for this village. Last
+evening eighteen Christians of various denominations met in a cottage
+at this said village. There was no formal address, but after earnest
+prayer, one of the brethren felt this passage laid solemnly on his
+heart, 'To-day, if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts.'
+Then some converted stone-diggers pleaded for a blessing. The answer
+of four years' prayers came, and the feeble infant wail was heard
+from one after another amid weeping and sobbing. Surely the angelic
+host had songs of praise while, in that holy stillness, these young
+men had a sight of themselves. Oh, pray on that our faith waver not,
+for we believe we shall see still greater things.
+
+"You remember the village where you preached upon 'Jesus passing
+by.' There is now a band of more than a dozen praying young men
+meeting constantly in their little outhouse.
+
+"The more we go forward in this labour of love the more evident it
+is that the cursed drink is our great difficulty. This stone must be
+rolled away. Another evening home for these men is a stern necessity,
+and must be provided; a place which they may call their own. Each
+building would cost 30 pounds. The men would furnish it cheerfully and
+support it nobly. Two such buildings have been erected, are now in
+operation, and answer beyond my most sanguine expectations. Morning,
+noon, and evening, groups of men, while at their hasty meals, are
+willing to listen to the Holy Scriptures or whatever else may be
+brought before them."
+
+"The memory of the just is blessed." It is sweet to recall any
+incident in the life of him who will ever live in the hearts of many.
+Miss Macpherson thus records the day of blessing:--
+
+"It was at a meeting in July 1864, at Mildmay Park, that it was laid
+on my heart to gather together, before the harvest-time, the
+stone-diggers, villagers, and their friends, and to invite the Rev. W.
+and Mrs. Pennefather to see face to face the hundreds of souls for
+whom they had wrestled with God. Early in the afternoon of the day
+appointed, streams of poor men and women came, having walked distances
+of from two to ten miles to be with us. Conveyances brought earnest
+lively Christians from Cambridge, and, including the stone-diggers,
+there were representatives from more than thirty towns and villages.
+On the arrival of Mr. and Mrs. Pennefather, great was our joy; and who
+of you cannot imagine our beloved friend in the midst of this
+multitude, of warm hearts, as with tears in his eyes he exclaimed,
+'This is another conference'? Gatherings on the grass were formed as
+tables were insufficient, and our dear friend went in and out among
+them, every feature showing forth the love with which God had filled
+his heart. His loving eye alone discovered poor Tom, lately out of the
+workhouse, standing trembling, and afraid to approach the party;
+behind the tent tears of joy streamed after he had secured, amid the
+rush for tea, a supply for the wants of this poor Tom. A lovely sunset
+was shedding its radiance over the humble gathering, when Mr.
+Pennefather rose and spoke to them of 'the coming glory,' first
+reading Luke ix. 25-35; and knowing that many before him would as
+Christians be called upon to endure ridicule from ungodly companions,
+he pointed out to them that in all the Gospels which speak of the
+Transfiguration, the event is preceded by an account of the
+Christian's path of self-denial. After an earnest address to the
+unsaved, this delightful gathering was closed by his telling them that
+a little offering had been made at Mildmay Park, and that, by the help
+of that money would now be presented to each man and woman,
+(stone-diggers and boys included), a pocket Testament, to be used in
+the intervals of harvest toil.
+
+"Many are their struggles in resisting bad companionship and drink,
+in trying to improve in reading, in seeking to clothe themselves, to
+help their parents, to work for Jesus with little light, and less
+time, and few talents. Oh, how much do they glorify God compared with
+some in other circumstances, who have been surrounded by heaven-breathing
+associations all their days! Well, indeed, can we understand that
+verse, 'The first shall be last, and the last first.'"
+
+Scenes of a different character must now be described.
+
+Sad and deeply humiliating as the sights and sounds of the East End
+of London still are, none who now visit the vast region lying
+eastward of St. Paul's can realise the sense of desolation that
+overpowered one's spirit when beholding it at the time Mr. Radcliffe
+began his services in 1860-1861. At that time the condition of the
+millions who existed there was ignored by those dwelling in more
+favoured regions. No railways had been as yet constructed by which
+visitors could come from the north and west. The space now occupied
+by the great railway stations in Broad Street and Liverpool Street
+was then crowded with unwholesome dwellings, well remembered for
+deaths in every house. No centres of usefulness where Christian
+workers could meet for prayer or counsel then existed. The Bedford
+Institute had not then been built, and no Temperance Coffee-Palace
+had even been heard of.
+
+The power of the Lord had been very present to wound and to heal in
+the City of London Theatre and at other services held by Mr.
+Radcliffe, and the young women who had been blessed were invited to
+meet for a week-evening Bible-reading and prayer-meeting, and for
+this purpose Lady Rowley rented a room in Wellclose Square. In this
+meeting, and in Lady Rowley's mothers' meeting in Worship Street,
+Miss Macpherson began the ministry of love which has extended so
+widely. She afterwards visited the homes of the poor, and the toil
+and suffering she witnessed, especially in those where matchbox-making
+was the means of livelihood, lay heavy on her heart. With _her_
+feelings of pity were always quickly followed by practical effort. In
+the midst of the winter's distress, one of the most cheering gifts
+received was from her praying band of coprolite diggers. After a
+watchnight service, they had spent the first moments of the
+consecrated new year in making a gathering from their hard-earned
+wages. Miss Macpherson had placed the East of London foremost in the
+list of subjects to be remembered at their prayer-union every Lord's
+Day. Little did the praying band think that in fulfilling this
+petition, the Lord would take their beloved leader from among them.
+
+It was in 1865 that Miss Macpherson was guided of the Lord to leave
+scenes endeared to her by many hallowed associations, and to
+encounter the trials and seek the blessings of Christian work in the
+East of London. Her first efforts were in answer to an invitation
+from the Society of Friends to hold classes for young men, both on
+the Lord's Day and on week evenings, at the Bedford Institute, a
+building lately erected by that Society, and which stood out
+conspicuously as a monument of Christian love. On the week evenings,
+instruction in reading and writing was the inducement held out to
+attend. The first fruits may be seen in G. C., once a violent
+opposer, afterwards a valuable helper in Canada, and now a preacher
+of the Gospel in China. The work at the Bedford attracted so much
+interest, that many helpers were drawn to it from other parts. The
+Sunday Bible-classes became an object of remarkable interest. Perhaps
+such an assemblage has seldom been seen. Many tables were filled in
+one hall with men, in another with women, many of whom were very
+aged, all with large-print Bibles before them, and each table headed
+by some earnest teacher, all at the close being gathered together for
+the final address.
+
+Other Gospel meetings were also held at the Bedford, but Miss
+Macpherson's labours could not be confined to this spot. In several
+little rooms poor Christian women were gathered for prayer, and
+depots for tracts were established, and Scripture texts placed in the
+windows, in streets which were never so lighted before. But these and
+all other efforts for the poor East End were interrupted in the
+autumn of 1866. She felt the Lord called her to accompany her sister
+and brother-in-law, Mr. Merry, with their young family across the
+Atlantic. Mr. Merry's object was to settle his four sons in the
+Western States of America. The voyage proved most perilous and
+stormy. On arrival in New York, Mr. Merry's health entirely broke
+down, and the medical opinion given was that nothing would restore
+him but return to his native land. In March 1867 they were welcomed
+back with exceeding joy. How mysterious did this trial appear! Why
+were those who had sought the Lord's counsel so earnestly, permitted
+to undertake a voyage apparently so useless, and accompanied by so
+much anxiety and suffering? How little could any one then conjecture
+that the Lord was thus training His children for the great life-work
+before them! Not for the welfare of their own family were Mr. and
+Mrs. Merry to be permitted to settle in those broad western lands;
+but many voyages were to follow, and they, and subsequently their
+children also, were to be fellow-helpers in the glorious work of
+finding homes on earth, and training for a heavenly Home, thousands
+of children who would have been otherwise homeless and uncared for.
+"What I do, thou knowest not now, but thou shalt know hereafter."
+Blessed hereafter! when we shall see _all_ the way the Lord our
+God has led us; not a smooth way, not an easy way. "The soul of the
+people was much discouraged because of the way;" "but the Lord led
+them by _the right way_."
+
+With her usual energy, Miss Macpherson again entered on her God-given
+work among the poor of the East End, and at once resolved to do all in
+her power to help the destitute children with whom she came in daily
+contact.
+
+In the very month of her return, the first girl was rescued and
+received into her own Home, then at Canonbury. Her story was thus
+written at the time:--"E. C., aged sixteen, was sent to my lodgings
+to know if I could provide a home for her. In August 1866 the father
+of this poor girl had bidden her farewell as she was leaving home on
+an excursion with the Sunday-school to which she belonged. On her
+return, cholera had numbered him among the dead. The mother threw
+herself into the canal, and, though restored, was lying helpless in a
+workhouse. E. C., who had before been learning dressmaking, was
+tossed about from one poor place of service to another--her clothes
+all pawned, or in tatters--till her last resting-place was on the
+flags. Then she applied at the Rev. W. Pennefather's soup-kitchen in
+Bethnal Green, and slept in the room at that time rented above it.
+The two following days were occupied in vain endeavours to procure
+admittance into one of the existing Homes for girls, the third, in
+preparing clothing for her, while, at the same time, _no way_
+appeared open for her to be received anywhere. When her clothing was
+ready, our first visit was to a sufferer paralysed and convulsed in
+every limb, at times compelled to be fastened to his bed,--one whose
+garret reminded one of the dream of Jacob; for answers to prayer were
+so direct, it seemed as though heavenly visitants were ever ascending
+and descending. He prayed, and while he was yet speaking, the Lord
+sent His 'answering messenger.' Miss Macpherson had felt it laid on
+her that day to come to the East End to my help, though knowing
+nothing whatever of the present need. When poor E. C. returned from
+the baths and washhouses in her clean clothing, (having sold her
+former rags for twopence-halfpenny), she was met by the loving offer
+of a home. She seemed afraid to believe it, and followed, as if in a
+dream, the friend so mercifully raised up for her. She was afterwards
+placed in service with a Christian friend, and her two little
+brothers were among the first inmates of the Revival Refuge."
+
+Most mercifully for the poor little matchbox-makers was Miss
+Macpherson's return ordered at this time. Much sympathy had been
+awakened concerning them, and much help had been sent for their
+benefit from the kind readers of the "Christian" paper. They numbered
+many hundreds, and Miss Macpherson undertook care and responsibility
+concerning them, for which the strength and powers of an older
+labourer were totally unfit. In this, and countless other instances,
+Miss Macpherson has proved herself ever ready to "fulfil the law of
+Christ" (Gal. vi. 2). The case of these infant toilers had rested on
+her heart from the first moment she had been made acquainted with
+their sufferings. The first sight of them is thus described by her
+own pen:--
+
+"In a narrow lane, having followed high up a tottering spiral
+staircase till we reached the attic, the first group of tiny,
+palefaced matchbox-makers was met with. They were hired by the woman
+who rented the room. The children received just three farthings for
+making a gross of boxes; the wood and paper were furnished to the
+woman, but she had to provide paste and the firing to dry the work.
+She received twopence-halfpenny per gross. Every possible spot, on
+the bed, under the bed, was strewn with the drying boxes. A loaf of
+bread and a knife stood on the table, ready for these little ones to
+be supplied with a slice in exchange of their hard-earned farthings.
+
+"This touching scene, which my pen fails to picture, gave me a
+lasting impression of childhood's sorrows. Never a moment for school
+or play, but ceaseless toil from light till dark."
+
+Miss Macpherson's first attempt for their benefit was to open
+evening schools, the inducement to attend which was the gift of sadly
+needed clothing. These schools were opened in various localities, the
+chief gathering being held in a house kindly provided for us by
+Charles Dobbin, Esq., still one of our unwearied benefactors.
+
+Not only reading, but the art of mending their tattered garments was
+a new thing to them, and their outward condition was such, that when
+for the first time a country excursion was planned for them, it was
+with the greatest difficulty they were made fit to appear.
+
+Whilst making every exertion to raise the matchbox-makers from their
+hitherto almost helpless state, her heart yearned over their
+brothers. A tea-meeting was given for boys by the veteran labourer
+George Holland, at the close of which one lad was noticed so much to
+be pitied, that it was felt, if nothing could be done for the others,
+he at least must be saved.
+
+Money was not plentiful, the need of the East End was then
+comparatively little known, but a young believer, the son of that
+honoured servant of the Lord, W. Greene of Minorca, had just set
+apart a portion of his salary to help some poor, London boy, and the
+letter telling this was on its way from the Mediterranean when this
+lad's history became known. Thus he was educated, and eventually
+raised to a position in which he became a helper of others.
+
+Many other homeless boys were found among that evening's guests, and
+Miss Macpherson felt it was impossible permanently to raise their
+condition without receiving them into a Home, where they could be
+taught and trained to regular work. The Lord gave the desire, and
+through the active sympathy of E. C. Morgan, the editor of the
+"Christian," the means were provided. A house was found at Hackney,
+and named the Revival Refuge, where thirty boys could be at once
+received. A few weeks afterwards, looking at these bright,
+intelligent young faces, it was difficult to believe in the dark
+surroundings of their earlier years. So great was the encouragement
+in caring for them, spiritually as well as physically, that Miss
+Macpherson could not rest without enlarging the work, and a
+dilapidated dwelling at the back of Shoreditch Church "was fitted up
+to receive thirty more boys."
+
+In the house first mentioned, besides the matchbox-makers' evening
+schools, mothers' meetings and a sewing class for widows were
+conducted by Mrs. Merry, and the upper storey was devoted to the
+shelter of destitute little girls. But in these, as in all Miss
+Macpherson's undertakings, the Lord blessed her so greatly that more
+accommodation was required for the constantly increasing numbers.
+
+The needed building was provided in a way that could have been
+little conjectured, but the Lord had gone before. Along the great
+thoroughfare leading from the Docks to the Great Eastern Railway,
+lofty warehouses had taken the place of many unclean, tottering
+dwellings formerly seen there. During the fearful visitation of
+cholera in 1866 one of these had been secured as a hospital by Miss
+Sellon's Sisters of Mercy, and water and gas had been laid-on on
+every floor, and every arrangement made for convenience and
+cleanliness. When the desolating scourge was withdrawn the house was
+closed, and many predicted that it would never be used again. In the
+following year Mr. Holland suggested how well it would be to secure
+it for a Refuge. The doors had been closed twelve months when Mr. and
+Mrs. Merry and three other friends entered the long-deserted
+dwelling, and joined in prayer that where death had been seen in all
+its terrors, there souls might be born to God, and that the voice of
+praise and prayer might be heard within those walls which had once
+resounded with the groans of the dying. Then the doors were locked,
+and for twelve months more remained as before. Then they were again
+opened, and on a gloomy winter's evening, with one candle the vast
+unlighted dwelling was again entered. The little company included R.
+C. Morgan, Charles Dobbin, and Henry Blair, of the Madras Civil
+Service, whose interest in the work now begun, only ended with his
+death. Through the kindness of these friends the building was
+secured, and the rent promised, but then a new difficulty arose. It
+had been hoped that Mr. Holland, who had first suggested the effort
+to secure the building, would have been willing to undertake the
+charge, but the work at George Yard was too dear to be given up. And
+now, who would bear this burden? It could hardly be believed that any
+woman would undertake the responsibility, for women had not then been
+called forward in this country so prominently as they now are. Here
+may be seen something of the Lord's purpose in having permitted Miss
+Macpherson's voyage to New York. In that city she had seen the faith
+and courage the Lord had given to women to "attempt great things"
+_for Him_, and the day is well remembered when many prayers were
+answered that she would accept the post. It is a post far advanced
+into the enemy's territory, for the adjoining streets are known as
+the "Thieves' Quarter." Three thousand, it is supposed, have their
+headquarters here. In the square mile in the midst of which the
+Refuge, (now called "Home of Industry"), is situated, 120,000 of our
+poorest population are to be found. From the first Mr. and Mrs. Merry
+gave themselves as willing and invaluable helpers to the enormous
+work connected with the undertaking. It appeared great from the
+beginning, but little could any one have imagined how it would go on
+spreading and increasing. It is difficult, or it may be impossible,
+to name any form of distress or any class which has not been here
+relieved and blessed. Every hour of the day, and even far on into the
+night, the voice of praise and prayer has been heard in some part of
+the building. Even in the vaults beneath the pavement was a little
+sanctuary made. Under the very stones, before trodden by them as
+homeless wanderers, some have joined in asking the Lord's blessing on
+those who had rescued them.
+
+In February, 1869, the Lord granted us the desire of our hearts, and
+the Home of Industry was opened with praise and prayer. "The Lord had
+done great things for us," but far more than any heart then,
+conceived were the blessings yet in store.
+
+On February 22, Miss Macpherson wrote as follows in the "Christian":--
+
+"BELOVED HELPERS,--To-night how your hearts would have rejoiced to
+have seen me and my happy hundreds of little toiling children in our
+new schoolroom in the Refuge. How varied their feelings! One
+whispered, 'It was here my mother died of the cholera.' Another, 'Oh!
+I was once in this ward before, so ill of black cholera.' Dear
+children! our prayer was that it might still be a house of mercy to
+many a sin-wearied soul. We have never had such a large schoolroom
+before, nor the advantage of desks. Their joy knew no bounds when
+told to invite their mothers to come one afternoon in the week to
+help me to sew and to earn sixpence, my object being twofold,--to
+secure an opportunity of telling them the gospel, and to endeavour to
+help them in the management of their homes and little ones."
+
+The following will show something of the trials attending "holding
+the fort" in such a spot:--
+
+"Last night I felt it right to sleep at the Refuge for once, so as
+to be able to enter into all its needs. No words can describe the
+sounds in the streets surrounding it throughout the night;--yells of
+women, cries of 'Murder!' then of 'Police!'--with the rushing to and
+fro of wild, drunken men and women into the street adjoining the
+building, whence more criminals come than from any other street in
+London. At three o'clock the heavy rumble of market-waggons
+commenced, and then the rush of the fire-brigade. Thus much by way of
+asking special prayer for those whom God has made willing to live in
+the midst of such surroundings. On the other side of the building is
+an empty space, known as 'Rag Fair,' filled in the morning with a
+horde of the poorest women selling the veriest old rubbish. We are
+thankful to have among these a faithful Christian woman, who, though
+a seller of rags, is able to testify of the great love of the Lord
+Jesus."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+1869-1870.
+
+Emigration of families--A visitor's impressions--The great life-work
+--Emigration of the young, begun 1870--First party of boys to Canada
+with Miss Macpherson and Miss Bilbrough--Their reception--Mr. Merry
+takes second party of boys--Miss Macpherson returns to England and
+takes out a party of girls--Canadian welcome and happy homes--
+Canadian pastor's story.
+
+
+Emigration had now for some time been in view as the only means of
+relieving the chronic poverty of the East of London, and in April
+1869 a circular to this effect was issued by Miss Macpherson and Miss
+Ellen Logan. Fifty families were selected as being suitable for such
+help, and these were gathered together at a farewell tea-meeting
+before leaving for Canada, all expressing deep thankfulness for the
+opening given to them. The preparations for the voyage of these
+fathers, mothers, and little ones required much thought and labour,
+both for their temporal and spiritual welfare, but from the very
+beginning of the work, sisters in Christ came from a distance, giving
+hours or days as a labour of love, and besides personal help on the
+spot, many busy fingers were at work in their own homes. The first
+party was followed by others, all involving much care and labour.
+Before the close of the year very encouraging accounts were received
+from many of the travellers, and the contrast was great between their
+condition in the new country and that which might here have been
+their lot. Whilst this important work was being carried on, evening
+reading and sewing classes for the little matchbox-makers, and
+mothers' meetings, were continued without intermission, together with
+the teaching and training of boys begun at the first Homes; and on
+the Lord's Day, besides the very large gathering of matchbox-makers,
+every effort was made to bring all around under the sound of the
+gospel. A stranger thus describes his impressions after a visit to
+the Home of Industry, November, 1869:--
+
+"'The mighty cry of anguish' that has gone up for so long from the
+East of London has, thank God, touched many a heart, and led some to
+carry God's answering messages in person to the suffering poor, and
+others to help in the lesser service of gifts.
+
+"Determined to see how the matter stood as regards one portion of
+that great mass of misery, I gave myself up to the skilful guidance
+of one whose whole life is spent in the service of God and His poor.
+
+"Leaving the rail, we proceeded to visit the sick-bed of one of the
+voluntary workers in the Refuge. We found him recovering from a
+severe attack of enteric fever complicated with pneumonia of the
+right lung. A fine, handsome young man, once the leader of the
+singing in a philharmonic club, now the devoted servant of God, his
+whole anxiety seemed to be as to when he could return to his work.
+During our visit, it was most touching to see the tenderness and
+anxious care of his companion, a young man called Fred, a labourer in
+the large wine vaults at the docks, who, though smelling of wine, and
+his clothes saturated with the fumes of spirits, was a staunch
+teetotaller; and judging from the intelligent way in which he
+answered our questions, would be a valuable witness before any
+commission of inquiry into the practices which wine-sellers term
+'mixing,' but which he vulgarly called 'adulteration.' Every night
+during the many weeks of illness Fred had paid his friend a visit,
+and watched over him with all the love of a Jonathan to a David.
+
+"We now pressed him into our service to conduct us through some of
+the many licensed lodging-houses and thieves' kitchens, which abound
+in the neighbourhood of Spitalfields.
+
+"On our way we met two little girls, matchbox-makers. The outline of
+their lives was given in a few moments. The father, a drunkard, had
+absconded six years ago, leaving his wife and six children to
+struggle with awful poverty as best they might, having previously so
+beaten and kicked his wife about the face, that she had become almost
+blind. 'Where's father now?' 'In the workhouse, stoneblind.'
+
+"In a room with a roaring fire were seated some thirty men and a few
+women with infants. The landlord's reception was anything but
+gracious. In answer to our 'Good evening,' he growled out, 'We don't
+want talk; those men want bread.' And hungry enough many seemed. So
+while one was sent for a supply of bread, which was received with
+unmistakable gladness, and devoured greedily, we spoke to them of
+that living bread which came down from heaven. All were interested,
+and one young man seemed to wince and to be ill at ease when the love
+of God was spoken of. I could not but feel that conscience was at
+work, perhaps memory carrying back his mind to a godly mother, who
+once had spoken the same loving words, but had gone to her rest in
+tears.
+
+"We then entered a licensed lodging-house accommodating 350. This
+was a sad sight, because three-fourths of the men were unemployed
+poor, chiefly dock-labourers, willing and glad to work, if work could
+be got. On many a face there were stamped hopelessness and apathy.
+Two poor fellows were sipping a cup of tea, without milk or sugar,
+given to them by a poor man, but they had not a morsel of bread; and
+this was their breakfast,--a late one truly, for it was ten at night.
+Out all day in search of work, their last coppers were paid for the
+night's lodging, and a cup of poor tea was their only meal. It made
+one's spirit groan to think of the misery that sin and selfishness
+had wrought for these poor fellows.
+
+"In the next house the inmates were mostly thieves. But here is one
+poor fellow, a workman, but with no work; he has been out in the
+streets three nights, and now one of his companions pleads with us
+for three-pence to procure him a night's rest. We peeped into several
+other such dwellings, but the same story was repeated in each. In all
+we were struck with the kind reception we met with, evidently due in
+part to the presence of our companion, who, although a lady, feels
+called of God to labour among these dens of misery, where there is so
+much to do and _so few to do it_, and to the fact that we lent a
+kindly ear to their tale of distress, and did what lay in our power
+to relieve the immediate pressure of the very destitute. But, above
+all, we were thankful to meet with such a spirit of hearing, and a
+ready attention when Jesus was lifted up as the Saviour of sinners.
+
+"We now entered a court to visit a poor woman whose husband had died
+suddenly the week before. It was between nine and ten, and we found
+the widow had been washing, the clothes hanging from lines in the
+room. Her two children, aged nine and eleven, were busily employed in
+matchbox-making.
+
+"The rapidity and neatness of these little human machines were truly
+most remarkable; the number of boxes made in a day, from half-past
+six in the morning to ten at night, was something fabulous. The floor
+of the room was covered with boxes; they earned a shilling each a
+day; often days passed when they were unable to get work to do. Poor
+children! thin and wan-looking, life seemed a terribly serious thing
+to them, their days spent in incessant toil when work was plentiful,
+their nights--well, they had a bedstead with a bundle of dirty rags
+for a bed, but not a stitch of bedclothes; the clothes the children
+wore were their only covering at night.
+
+"In another court we found a silk-weaver hard at work,--from eight
+in the morning to eleven at night. This man, a Christian, had
+formerly been a weaver of velvet, but finding that a living could not
+in any way be made out of it, in an evil hour he was tempted to go
+into a skittle-alley as a helper. Here, though receiving good wages,
+he found he could not be happy,--could not 'abide with God;' so he
+gave it up, and now he is earning barely tenpence a day; but hard as
+his lot is, he is happy in the consciousness of doing right, and
+still manages to spare a little time to take his reading-lesson from
+the Bible, and to tend a flowering-plant, his only companion, which
+representative of the vegetable world seems to have nearly as hard a
+struggle to live as its master.
+
+"Our next visit was to a poor old woman between sixty and seventy
+years of age, surrounded with every discomfort, and troubled with
+constant cough and weakness. Apparently she had only a few days to
+live, but she was able to rejoice in Jesus as her Saviour, whose
+presence even then made all things bright.
+
+"The next visit was to a poor dying girl; in a room so small that
+there was only a margin of about three feet round two sides of the
+bed for standing ground, the floor covered with rags, (her mother
+being a rag-mender), lay one, who, though poor and miserable, was yet
+an heir of glory, and was upheld in all her wretchedness by Him who
+was sent to be 'the Comforter.' We thanked God for these two bright
+spots, where divine light and love were seen and felt.
+
+"At the Home of Industry we had been invited to take tea with two
+hundred and fifty destitute widows. The testimony of one of these, a
+clean, tidy old woman, was very precious. She had once been in
+affluent circumstances and drove her carriage; her fortune lost in
+one day, she was now reduced to poverty, but, 'Sir,' she said, 'I
+would not go back to it all and be as I then was; no, not for all the
+world.' Possessing Christ as her own, she felt she had the riches of
+God, and knew that there was an inheritance reserved for her in
+heaven, incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away."
+
+The great lifework of Miss Macpherson and her devoted family may be
+said to have begun this year. The need of emigration may be expressed
+in her own words:--
+
+"Boys came to us for shelter instead of going to empty barrels,
+railway arches, and stairways. We found they were grateful for all
+that was done for them. The simple gospel lesson was our lever to
+lift them into new thoughts and desires. The sharp dividing knife of
+the Word of God would discover the thief and liar, and rouse the
+conscience to confession more than anything beside. But our walls had
+limits, and our failures in finding employment for many away from
+their old haunts became a great difficulty, and the God-opened way of
+emigration to Canada was pressed upon us."
+
+"Thy God hath commanded thy strength." To the astonishment of many,
+Miss Macpherson expressed her determination to pioneer the first
+band, and He Who of old sent forth His disciples two and two, was
+mindful of the present need, and so strengthened the heart of a young
+sister (already deeply interested in the work, and singularly gifted
+in many ways) to lay all at the feet of her Master, and to offer to
+share whatever toils and trials might be in the way. "Ye have not
+passed this way heretofore." It was a new way, an "untrodden way."
+
+We have now been for many years so accustomed to hear of the kind
+welcome given in Canada, and the prosperity of the young emigrants,
+that we cannot realise the faith and courage required by Miss
+Macpherson, and her co-worker, Miss Bilbrough. Many misgivings arose
+in the hearts of some at the thought of these two sisters in the Lord
+arriving uninvited in a new land where neither owned a friend, and,
+greatest of all, fears were entertained that those who had known the
+wild roaming life of city Arabs might defy the control and authority
+of the leaders. But how vain were all these fears! Wisdom had been
+asked of the Lord in every step of the way, and He had given
+"liberally," according to His gracious word. How blessedly was the
+title of Counsellor as well as Leader and Commander of His people
+then fulfilled! The following description of the departure of the
+first party was written at the time:--
+
+  "Our souls are in God's mighty hand,
+  We're precious in His sight."
+
+These words, sweet and true at all times, surely never sounded
+sweeter than when sung by the band of young emigrants gathered for
+the last time within the walls of the Refuge, which to many of them
+is hallowed as no other spot on earth can ever be. _How_ precious
+in His sight, none can tell but He who watched over those young
+wanderers, and surrounded them with the loving care and prayers which
+still follow them to a distant land.
+
+The beloved helpers at a distance, who have toiled, and collected,
+and borne to a throne of grace the burdens of their beloved sister in
+the Lord, Miss Macpherson, will like to know every detail, even to
+the outward appearance of those once ragged, shoeless wanderers. Now
+they stood in ranks ready to depart, dressed in rough blue jackets,
+corduroy suits, and strong boots, all made within the Refuge, the
+work of their own hands. All alike had scarlet comforters and
+Glengarry caps; a canvas bag across their shoulders contained a
+change of linen for the voyage, towels, tin can, bowl and mug, knife,
+fork, and spoon; and one kind friend, the last day before starting,
+brought them a present of a hundred strong pocket-knives. A Bible, a
+"Pilgrim's Progress," and a little case of stationery, were provided
+for each, and while they stood thus indoors, singing their last
+farewell, a dense crowd filled the street without, having waited for
+hours in the pouring rain. It was with difficulty the police could
+keep struck with the sight of the boys, all remarking that they had
+never seen more intelligent countenances, and one observed, after
+hearing something of their history, "This is real religion."
+
+Liverpool was reached at 4 A.M., and all went at once on board the
+"Peruvian." Then came a trial of patience,--they had to wait some
+hours for breakfast,--but restraining grace was so manifest
+throughout, that one's heart was continually lifted up in praise and
+thanksgiving for this mercy as well as for countless others, and most
+especially for the loving-kindness of the Lord in strengthening and
+supporting His beloved servants at the time of parting.
+
+From want of space, it appeared impossible, (as far as could be
+judged from the first day's experience), to gather all the boys
+together, but even amid the difficulties attending first going on
+board, Miss Macpherson succeeded in holding a little service with a
+portion of them. Some of the passengers and crew gathered round; all
+were remembered in her supplications, and a deep solemnity rested on
+all. Then she called on those boys who knew what it was to draw near
+with assurance to the throne of grace to ask for blessing, and, with
+her undaunted energy, exhorted them not to be afraid to speak for
+Jesus. Prayer was followed by the oft-repeated hymn,--
+
+  "There is a better world, they say,
+  Oh, so bright!"
+
+The tender brought on board a band of Christian friends, who once
+more thronged around her, till the parting signal was given, and then
+the last sounds heard on leaving were, "Yes, we part, but not for
+ever," and "Shall we gather at the river?"
+
+The following note of cheer quickly arrived, to the joy of many
+anxious hearts and the praise of a prayer-hearing God:--
+
+"On Board the 'Peruvian,' off the Coast of Ireland, May 13, 1870.
+
+"MY DEAR SISTERS,--Fearing lest in your anxiety for us you may have
+imagined a rough night for the first, I send a few lines to assure
+you that all is love, even to the smallest details. Each rolling wave
+reminds me of that word in the Epistle of James, 'Let him ask in
+faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the
+sea, driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that
+he shall receive anything of the Lord.' Many a faithful prayer has
+ascended for a prosperous voyage; prosperity of soul is often
+realised by being kept in the lowest place, and when my boys told me
+how ill some of them had been in the night, and how they had,
+notwithstanding, held little prayer-meetings, crying to Jesus in the
+midst of what to them seemed a storm, I rejoiced. Thus trial sends us
+to Jesus, the Captain of our salvation.
+
+"With the exception of two, all are on deck now, as bright as larks;
+they have carried up poor Jack Frost, and Franks, the runner. It is
+most touching to see them wrap them up in their rugs. Michael Finn,
+the Shoreditch shoeblack, was up all night caring for the sick boys;
+he carries them up the ladder on his back. Poor Mike! he and I have
+exchanged nods at the Eastern Counties Railway corner these five
+years; it is a great joy to give him such a chance in life. Oh, to
+win his soul to look to Jesus for everlasting life!"
+
+The following extract will tell the answer to the many prayers by
+which Miss Macpherson was upheld, and how assuredly it was the Lord
+who had guided her way across the pathless deep:--
+
+"Mr. Stafford, the agent at Quebec, would willingly have kept the
+hundred boys there, but we only left him eleven, and brought the rest
+on to Montreal; and there too they were anxious to keep them, and
+said if it were made known, in three days we should not have one
+remaining. As it was, we left twenty-three, and all in excellent
+situations. Some of the best were picked out, numbers of them as
+house-servants. Then we left eight at Belleville, half way between
+Montreal and Toronto." These boys were left in charge of Mr. Leslie
+Thom, who had acted as schoolmaster at the Home of Industry, and
+whose help was invaluable on arrival in the new country.
+
+Miss Macpherson's youngest sister, Mrs. Birt, thus writes concerning
+the departure of the second family, so readily sent out in answer to
+the invitations of dear friends in Canada:--
+
+"I am sure our dear friends will feel exceedingly pleased and
+gratified to hear that the departure of our second band of boys for
+Canada this year, under the care of Mr. Merry, took place on the 21st
+of July, leaving our hearts filled to overflowing with thankfulness
+and praise for the very marked way in which the Lord has led us on
+step by step.
+
+"Little did we think, a month ago, that it would be possible in so
+short a time to select, teach, and outfit seventy boys, and to soften
+their manners, even if we had the necessary money for their expenses.
+But the Lord has most wonderfully brought it all about in His own
+way. The money was sent, boys anxiously in search of employment came
+beseeching help, the needful work for their outfits was accomplished
+in far less than the usual time by faithful widows, who sewed away as
+diligently as though each had been making garments for her own son.
+An active, earnest, clever teacher was also provided by the Lord, to
+give to these rescued ones that punctual and diligent, daily
+attention that seemed to us so important. Even the postponement of
+their sailing from the 14th inst. to the 21st inst. was overruled for
+good; Mr. Merry was enabled to become more personally acquainted with
+each, and we know that 'the good seed of the Word' was sown in many
+hearts, we trust to bear fruit. On reaching the ship, we were told
+that our band would have the benefit of a place set apart for
+themselves, whereas, had they sailed the previous week, they would
+have been crowded up with other emigrants. After three days' rest we
+return, the Lord willing, to the Refuge, to select and prepare a band
+of young girls. Our sister Miss Macpherson writes to us that she has
+been besought most earnestly by the Canadian ladies to send them out
+some little English maids; and that they promise to watch over them
+and care for them as if they were their own."
+
+After the arrival of Mr. Merry in Canada with the second party of
+boys, Miss Macpherson returned to England and wrote as follows:--
+
+"My BELOVED FELLOW-LABOURERS,--You will be surprised to hear that,
+after a pleasant voyage, with renewed health, I am again in my
+privileged place of service in the East of London. My song of praise
+is very full. The Council of the county of Hastings has given me a
+house capable of holding 200, free of all expenses, situated in the
+town of Belleville, Ontario, leaving the management in my hands,
+entirely untrammelled by conditions. Thus a work of faith is now
+commenced on Canadian shores, where our little street wanderers can
+at once be sent and trained under our own schoolmaster, Mr. Leslie
+Thom. My friend Miss Bilbrough, assisted by the Christian ladies of
+the town, has undertaken to furnish this Distributing Home in
+readiness for Mr. Merry's arrival. There all will undergo a training,
+and will be kept till suitable situations are appointed for them."
+
+After remaining a short time in England, Miss Macpherson,
+accompanied by her sister, Mrs. Birt, returned to Canada with the
+third party of young emigrants, numbering over a hundred.
+
+The following is an extract from Mrs. Birt's first letter after
+their arrival:--
+
+"In my memory are associated two scenes connected with the pretty
+park in which the Distributing Home is situated, scenes that can
+never be forgotten; first, the long procession of the tired and weary
+little travellers, wending their way up the carriage-drive, the
+clear, starlit sky overhead, and the quiet, bright full moon shining
+down on their upturned faces, as they stood in front of their new
+home, and sang so earnestly--
+
+ 'Praise God, from whom all blessings flow,
+  Praise Him, all creatures here below;'
+
+and secondly, on awaking the next morning and looking out, the sight
+of the whole party scampering about the park, just like so many
+little wild animals let loose from a cage, rushing about under every
+tree, as if trying whether their freedom was real. I had to call my
+sister to look at them; and in mind we carried them back to London at
+six o'clock in the morning, and felt it was indeed good for them to
+be thus in Canada. How longingly we wished we could fill the
+Distributing Home with just such a number every month of the year,
+for certain it is we could find places and homes for them all."
+
+A little later Miss Macpherson wrote:--
+
+"Yesterday afternoon Miss Bilbrough drove us out into the cleared
+backwoods to visit some of our children. The country was charming;
+woods and green valleys, with every now and then rich orchards laden
+with rosy apples; the long Concession roads, forming at times
+magnificent avenues, in which here and there a maple, which had
+caught a cold blast, prematurely showed the lovely autumnal tints so
+peculiar in richness to this country.
+
+"Everywhere we called the warmest hospitality was shown us, very
+like the 'furthy auld kintra folk' of Scotia in days lang syne.
+
+"Our first recognition was a boy named Ambrose, of the second
+detachment; he was busy in the farmyard, but soon, with a bright
+face, came to the side of our vehicle, telling us he was so happy and
+well; indeed, it required no words to assure us of this. Our next
+call was to one of the first settlers of fifty-eight years ago, still
+living in the house he had at first erected. His dear wife, on
+hearing of the arrival of the little English orphan children, could
+not sleep all night, but had her horses put into the team, and drove
+in to Belleville, and for the Lord's sake, who had been so good to
+her and hers, took away two, one for herself and one for her married
+daughter, whose home had never rung with the voice of a little
+prattler. It was great joy to see that they loved and cared for these
+little waifs as though they were their very own; my heart alone
+knowing whence they had been taken, and their little memories still
+keen as to the awful contrast of former want and this present
+abundance of food, fruit, and kindness.
+
+"With this dear, pious couple, we drank tea. Such a spread at this
+meal is never beheld in the old country. Around my cup of tea were
+seven different kinds of choice dainties at the same time. This is
+their way, and it is done with few words but warm welcome. The
+homespun, well-worn coat and well-patched shoes of our aged host were
+all forgotten when listening to his intelligent remarks on men and
+things; and though seventy-eight years of age, every faculty of head
+and heart seemed to keep pace with the times. He was a Wesleyan
+Methodist, and with pleasure told us of the erection of their new
+Zion, whose glistening tinned spire we could see rising among the
+woods at no great distance."
+
+Miss Bilbrough wrote at this time:--
+
+"Miss Macpherson has been able to spend during this summer much of
+her time in visiting among the different farms where our children are
+located, within some twenty or forty miles of Belleville in the
+counties of Hastings and Prince Edward. She would start some sunshiny
+morning on a week's tour, dining with one farmer, having tea at
+another's, and passing the night at some special friend's, Charlie,
+the mission horse, receiving the best of fare; while next day the
+farmer harnesses his horse and takes her round to the neighbouring
+farms where the little English emigrants have found a resting-place;
+and oh! the joy of these children to see again the well-remembered
+face, and hear the cheery voice of her who had first seen and
+relieved their misery in the old country, and now bringing fresh
+cheer and comfort in the new! With what haste the table is spread and
+soon loaded with substantial food, and afterwards what opportunities
+arise for a few words of counsel! Some verses are read from the Word
+of God, and then kneeling down, we and the new friends would commit
+the child to the care of Him who has said, 'I will never leave thee
+nor forsake thee.'
+
+"Here, too, the numerous tracts and books brought from England,
+'God's Way of Peace,' 'The Blood of Jesus,' 'British Workman,' 'Band
+of Hope,' and 'The Christian,' often containing a letter from Miss
+Macpherson, are eagerly sought after and read; and when passing along
+the road, Charlie seems now instinctively to stop when meeting some
+pedestrian, that out of our well-filled handbags may be given some
+tract or book."
+
+The following is a record of days of travel in the backwoods:--
+
+"MARCHMONT, BELLEVILLE, _October_.
+
+"My friend Miss Bilbrough and I started, after an early dinner,
+from Marchmont, having declined the kind offer of a friend's
+conveyance, preferring to go by the usual stage-waggon, as our object
+was to study the country people, and know those with whom our little
+ones mingle. In so doing we increase our opportunities of
+distributing books and tracts,--a new thing in these outlying
+districts. We ask prayer for a blessing on these, and for every dear
+boy and girl who has been under our care, that the Holy Spirit may
+bring to each mind the remembrance of the truth in Jesus, which has
+been set before them. Our faith is from time to time strengthened by
+seeing one after another joining the Lord's people.
+
+"The novelty of our position was increased when the driver and our
+fellow-passengers, seven in number, discovered that we were the
+friends of the orphan children. Their politeness was touching. We had
+to take the best seat, the curtains were drawn down to shelter us
+from the wind, and the driver strove to interest us by telling us
+histories of such of our boys as he knew at different points of his
+journey.
+
+"For miles the country seemed well cleared, except where portions of
+forest were left to supply wood for the years to come. The cedar-rail
+fence and 'Concession roads' marked all into well-defined portions.
+On these roads the homesteads are built in every variety of style,
+from the log-hut built of cedar-trees laid one upon the other,
+cemented together, and roofed with bark, to the stone and brick
+edifice, with barns and stables, and other surroundings, like unto
+one of our own old country farmhouses.
+
+"Our fellow-travellers were farmers, returning from Toronto Fair.
+They seemed amused and willing to listen to our conversation with the
+driver, and received our books most politely.
+
+"The 'lumbering district' stretched away northwards, some seventy-five
+miles from where the giants of the forest had been felled. The
+recollections of our fellow-passengers were interesting as to the few
+years ago, when the very country we were passing through was a dense
+mass of similar unhewn timber. Now on every side there were homesteads
+telling of plenty, and enlivened by rosy, healthy little ones. Who
+will question the desirability of thus peopling our Father's glorious
+landscapes, and gathering up our poor perishing children from our
+overcrowded dens and alleys, where they are dying by thousands yearly
+for want of pure air and sunshine, many becoming criminals ere they
+scarce leave their mother's knee?
+
+"The past encourages us to hope that He will not permit us to go
+before Him, and will both send sufficient strength for the day, and
+sufficient means for the support of all He would have us rescue from
+misery, by bringing them under the influences of a pious home,
+placing them in Sabbath schools, and above all, gathering them
+beneath the sheltering wing of the loving Shepherd.
+
+"We arrive at length at Roslin, and soon find the pretty house of
+our friend Dr. H---, where we are warmly greeted for the Master's
+sake, and ere long introduced to the only little baby prattler, its
+mother, and her widowed sister. They had lived in the city, had
+visited the old country, were friends of Mr. Gosse, and readers of
+'The Christian.' Hence we soon found that though in a Canadian
+backwood settlement, we had tastes and topics in common, and one
+longing especially united us--the burden of precious souls to be won
+for Him we all loved.
+
+"Through a chain of circumstances, Dr. B--- had obtained one of our
+boys, who had been engaged in a similar capacity in a suburb of
+London, but had lost his situation, and become an orphaned wanderer
+in our great city. His knowledge of dispensing was a recommendation
+for his appointment to another doctor; and, to my great joy, hitherto
+he had conducted himself so well, that in all the neighbourhood
+around other boys were so much in demand, that we now have no less
+than forty children in that district among the farmers.
+
+"My friend, ever a true helper as secretary, remembered that a small
+boy named Smith, who had left a mother sorely fretting after him,
+lived near, and proposed to go and get a report of him at once. The
+Doctor's conveyance soon was at the door, and in less than an hour my
+friend returned with a bright account of the comfortable home and the
+happiness of its young inmate.
+
+"The short hours after tea swiftly passed in conversing over the
+basket of books and tracts, many of these the gathered-up stores of
+my friends, which when read had been sent to the Refuge, and were now
+being spread freely in Canadian homes. We also talked over the
+principle which we were endeavouring to work out with these
+friendless children, namely, that as the Lord Jesus had given Himself
+to save us, so we ought to reach out the hand of love, and endeavour
+to snatch others from lives of misery and want. If we cannot open our
+own doors to the lost and wayward; ought we not to help in finding
+out those who can, that the lost and wandering lambs outside in the
+wilderness might be gathered beneath a sheltering wing inside some
+happy fold?
+
+"Dr. H--- and his intelligent wife and sister held a long
+conversation with us on the method best suited for those whom we are
+seeking to benefit--whether to educate them for a series of years in
+our institutions in the old country, or to afford them only a
+temporary residence with us, where their character, temper, and
+talents could be studied for a few months with a view to determine
+what family they would suit best. Our experience with the three
+hundred children now placed out and watched over by our co-labourers
+in Canada brought us to the latter conclusion, and the testimony of
+others in Germany was to the same effect.
+
+"Pastor Zeller, who himself founded an orphan asylum at Beuggen, had
+long before strongly advocated the placing of bereaved children in
+Christian families as the very best method of training them.
+Commenting on this, M. de Liefde observes--'An establishment which
+contains from fifty to seventy children (and this surely is only a
+small one), however well managed, cannot help being unnatural in many
+respects. Nature seldom puts more than twelve children together in
+one house; quite enough for a man and his wife to control, if due
+attention be given to the formation of the different characters and
+the development of the various talents. The training of a band of
+children beyond that number cannot help assuming the character of
+wholesale education. The larger the number, the greater the
+resemblance of the establishment to a barrack; it becomes a depot of
+ready-made young citizens, got up for social life at a fixed price,
+and within a fixed period of time. No wonder that they often turn out
+unfit for practical realities, and uncured of inveterate defects.'
+The noble Immanuel Wichern felt this objection so forcibly, that his
+famous 'Rauhe Haus' institution is like a village of families, each
+homestead with its house-father and house-mother, and its twelve boys
+or girls, as the case may be. He considered that he could not
+otherwise do justice to those whom God had committed to his care than
+by bringing the principles of family life to bear upon each
+individual.
+
+"In the course of conversation we asked, how it was that so far from
+the city they had heard of our having boys to dispose of, and it was
+pleasant to hear that the weekly 'Christian' was the link that led
+them to depute a relative to watch for our passing through Montreal.
+Family worship closed this day of sweet service.
+
+"The next morning our kind host studied the various Concessions in
+which our children had been located, and soon the 'democrat' (a
+peculiar carriage suited for this country) was brought to the door,
+and the doctor, and his sister accompanied us for the day's drive.
+
+"The day was balmy, like one of our bright June days, and beeches
+and maples, firs and cedars, were beautiful to behold in their autumn
+loveliness.
+
+"Our first call was at Mr. V---'s. He was a widower, and, finding
+his home lonely, had sought at Marchmont for a little one to love and
+cheer him. He had taken the twin-like brothers, Freddy and Tommy,
+whose sweet little faces bore some resemblance to his own. We found
+the children at school, looking hearty and happy in the playground as
+we passed the schoolhouse. Mr. V--- was from home, but his mother, a
+pious woman, received us most kindly, and spoke affectionately of the
+children. She took us to see her lovely flowerbeds of annuals, all
+laid out with taste in front of the wooden house, and tended by her
+own hands when house-work was over. My heart longed for the joy of
+telling the happiness of these children to the aged pious grandmother
+pining away in want and sickness, and forsaken by her own son, the
+father of these boys.
+
+"Passing onwards, we drove past a rosy-cheeked little fellow
+climbing a bank. A month in the fresh air had so changed him from the
+delicate, pale, thin boy, that we looked again ere we recognised
+Alfred Bonkin. His widowed mother will sing for joy to hear of his
+being thus educated, clothed, and fed, and growing up to an honest
+life.
+
+"Alfred was 'fixed up' (to use a Canadian term) with two others of
+our children in a family settlement. One was a grown-up lad, employed
+in farm work, and the other a little matchbox-maker. The venerable
+couple who had adopted them had won our hearts when calling upon us
+at the Home. They were both over eighty years of age, had thirty
+grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, and yet room to love our
+little ones, and not miss the 'bite and the sup.' It was washing-day;
+but the old lady left her tub 'right away,' and hoped we would not be
+'scared,', by her being in a bustle, but just 'take off,' and she
+would soon spread the table? We spoke of our long round of calls, and
+with difficulty we got away, not before we had been laden with a
+basket of the finest apples we had ever seen, and had promised to
+come and pay a long visit next time. From all we witnessed, we could
+not but rejoice in the way God had opened homes and Christ-loving
+hearts to receive our perishing little ones."
+
+"Peace and plenty smiled on every hand. Tears came as a relief when
+fondling little Annie Parker took my hand, saying, 'Tome and see my
+father's new house!' The memory came back of Mr. Morgan, Mr. Holland,
+and a few friends meeting with me in John Street to form a 'Little
+Girls' Home.' Two years have now passed since Annie and her whole
+family were carried to the Fever Hospital. Both the parents died; the
+four girls took a room, and lived by matchbox-making. Annie and
+Maggie were the youngest, starved and ragged beyond description.
+Since that time they have both been cared for, have learnt their
+letters, and can now read and write. Surely the most inveterate
+opponents to emigration could not but approve of and seek a blessing
+on such a change. Where in all England could we have found, in a few
+weeks, hearts and homes for forty adoptions? These families are
+thrifty and homely--spinning, weaving, knitting, knowing what small
+means with a blessing can do, and are the very people to train up our
+children for a common-sense battle with the difficulties of life."
+
+"We were interested in observing the forethought displayed in laying
+up stores for the winter; apple being peeled, quartered, strung upon
+strings, and dried either in the sun, or over the kitchen stove;
+pumpkins cut into parings and dried, &c."
+
+"All that remained at this late season (October) in the fields was
+the buckwheat. When this is cut and placed in stacks, its red roots
+are exposed, affording a pleasant contrast to the dark green of the
+up-springing fall-wheat. More immediately around the houses, lay the
+immense yellow pumpkins, still attached to their dying stems."
+
+The time for Miss Macpherson's return to England now drew near, and
+with a heart filled with thankfulness for the mercies they had
+already experienced Miss Bilbrough offered to remain at Marchmont, to
+brave alone the first Canadian winter, and with Mr. Thom's help to
+watch over any case of difficulty that might arise among those who
+had come out; for as yet the work was an experiment.
+
+
+A CANADIAN PASTOR'S STORY.
+
+"Annie and Maggie, the children before mentioned, were taken out to
+Canada by Miss Macpherson, and were at first unavoidably placed in
+families residing at some distance from each other. The younger one
+was brought back to the Marchmont Home on account of a peculiar lisp,
+which her master's children were acquiring from her. Almost
+immediately another farmer called for a girl to assist his wife in
+the care of her little ones. He saw little Maggie, cared nothing for
+her lisp, and would have her away with him. On taking down his
+address, it was found that he lived on the farm next to that where
+the elder, sister was placed. It was near the end of the week, and on
+the next Sabbath morning an unexpected meeting occurred, feelingly
+described in the following verses. The incident was related to Miss
+Macpherson by the pastor himself."
+
+  Come now, a story, dear papa,
+    Now find a knee for each;
+  You said, papa, that once you heard
+    Two little sisters preach
+
+  A better sermon far than you:
+    Jane says that cannot be.
+  We want to know, so tell us now,
+    Before they bring the tea.
+
+  Come then, my darlings, you must know,
+    Beyond the wild deep sea,
+  In London's streets, these sisters grew
+    In want and misery.
+
+  Their parents died, and they were left,
+    Poor girls, in sore distress;
+  Ah! dear ones, may you never know
+    An orphan's loneliness!
+
+  But kindly hearts, which God had touched,
+    Felt for them in their grief;
+  He taught them too the surest way
+    To give such woes relief.
+
+  Away from London's crowded streets,
+    They bade the sisters come,
+  Within our brave, broad Canada,
+    To find a pleasant home.
+
+  A pleasant home for each was found,
+    But far apart they lay;
+  And thus apart the sisters dwelt
+    While long months rolled away.
+
+  Poor little girls! 'twas very sad;
+    They were too young to write;
+  And no one guessed the quiet tears
+    Poor Annie shed at night.
+
+  Among our Sabbath-scholars soon
+    I learned to watch her face;
+  A quiet sadness on her brow
+    I fancied I could trace.
+
+  One summer's morning, Sabbath peace
+    Filled all the sunny air,
+  And all within God's house was hushed,
+    To wait the opening prayer;
+
+  When up the aisle a neighbour came,
+    With hushed but hasty tread;
+  And by the hand with kindly care
+    A little girl he led.
+
+  A sudden cry ran through the church,
+    A cry of rapture wild;
+  And starting from her seat we saw
+    Our quiet English child.
+
+  "Sister! my sister!" was the cry
+    That through the silence rung,
+  As round the little stranger's neck
+    Her eager arms she flung.
+
+  And tears and kisses mingling fast,
+    She pressed on lip and cheek;
+  For silent tears can sometimes tell
+    What words are poor to speak.
+
+  Then soft o'er cheek, and brow, and hair,
+    Her trembling fingers crept;
+  Then heart to heart, and cheek to cheek,
+    Those loving sisters wept.
+
+  Nor they alone, for strong men sobbed;
+    Women stood weeping by;
+  And little ones looked up amazed,
+    And asked what made them cry.
+
+  Oh, broken was the prayer we prayed,
+    Scarce could we raise the hymn;
+  And when God's holy book I read,
+    My eyes with tears were dim.
+
+  And yet we felt the Saviour there,
+    Right in our midst that day;
+  "Will you not love my little ones?"
+    We almost _heard_ Him say.
+
+  No need of laboured words that day
+    Long hardened hearts to move;
+  Well had the sisters' meeting preached
+    The lesson, "God is Love."
+
+  His heart had felt their childish grief,
+    The while they mourned apart;
+  His loving-hand had wrought the plan,
+    To bring them heart to heart.
+
+S. R. GELDARD.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+1870-1871.
+
+Workers' meetings at home of industry--Training home at Hampton
+opened--Personal experiences--Welcome in Western Canada--Help for a
+Glasgow home--Scottish ferryman--"Out of the mouths of babes and
+sucklings."
+
+
+Before the close of the year Miss Macpherson had returned from
+Canada, and at the usual monthly meeting for workers was again
+enabled to tell of the goodness and mercy that had followed her.
+
+One of the great needs of the East End which has already been
+mentioned, was that of some central spot where Christian workers
+might meet for prayer and counsel. This need was abundantly met at
+the Home of Industry, open at all times, with a welcome and words of
+cheer ready for the servants of the Lord from every part of the
+world. The workers' meetings, once a month, have given opportunities
+for hearing tidings of the spread of the gospel in the "regions
+beyond." Those who had hitherto been standing idle have been aroused,
+and many who have long borne the burden and heat of the day have been
+refreshed. It would be difficult to reckon the number of those who
+have in the Home of Industry first heard the summons from the Lord to
+"go forth," as "messengers of the glory of Christ," and are now
+toiling in distant lands.
+
+The difficulty of keeping a number of active restless spirits within
+the hounds of a house in the position of the Home of Industry,
+without one inch of yard or playground, and in the midst of streets
+in which it was unsafe for one of these boys to be seen, can hardly
+be imagined. It was a subject of the greatest astonishment to a
+descendant of Immanuel Wichern's that in such circumstances Miss
+Macpherson was enabled to keep them under control. It was, however,
+most desirable to find some place where their active energies could
+be employed in some sort of training for the Canadian out-door life.
+Miss Macpherson thus refers to her thankfulness that such a spot was
+found:--
+
+"Those who share with us the burdens of this work will rejoice to
+hear that we have now a Home in the country, where we can cultivate a
+few acres, and where the children can become efficiently trained for
+Canada under the superintendence of Mr. and Mrs. Merry. It is
+situated near the village of Hampton and is now being furnished. This
+will enable me to rescue another hundred from street-life at once.
+What a boon from the Lord Whom we serve!"
+
+It proved to be just what was needed, as is shown by the testimony
+of another friend:--
+
+"The Training Home at Hampton bids fair to be a most valuable
+addition to Miss Macpherson's scheme for rescuing these dear children
+if only for their health's sake; the pure air, the early hours for
+rising, the outdoor and spade exercise, the plentiful supply of real
+milk, are all good; and the absence of all noise and excitement gives
+a much fairer chance of seeing what the boys really are, and the
+probability of their taking to Canadian life."
+
+The next party was arranged to leave for Canada by the "Prussian" on
+the 4th of May, and on this occasion one who had the privilege of
+accompanying them thus wrote:--"I feel it as impossible to convey to
+friends in England a true idea of the kind welcome accorded to our
+poor little ones, as it is to give to dear Canadian friends any
+adequate idea of the crowded misery of our own dens and alleys.
+
+"It has scarcely been credited by some that so many hundreds of
+little travellers could have crossed the Atlantic in many successive
+voyages and not have experienced one storm. How we realised the power
+of Him 'who stilleth the noise of the sea, the noise of their waves,
+and the tumult of the people!' for on this voyage, as on every other,
+it has been remarkable that no discord has arisen among her many
+young charges. The work begun on land was carried on at sea, and many
+young hearts were blessed of the Lord ere they left the ship. It was
+pleasant to hear many testimonies in their favour among the
+passengers and crew; pleasant also to hear testimonies of
+thankfulness for Miss Macpherson's presence in the ship; for she
+laboured unceasingly among the crew and steerage passengers as well
+as with her own special charges.
+
+"Kind letters of welcome were received off Quebec. For a few hours
+we were detained at Point Levi, waiting for the emigrants' train, and
+watching with delight the sun descending and streaming with splendour
+on the cliffs and magnificent river; some of the heights bare, others
+clothed with firs, all picturesque and grand. The evening star shone
+before us as we were carried westward; one of the little orphan girls
+said it looked as if watching over us to help us; and in the morning
+we reached Montreal Junction, where one of the warm Canadian friends
+who have welcomed Miss Macpherson so cordially entered the cars, and
+spoke very encouraging words to the young travellers, telling them
+how he had himself been as dependent on his own exertions as any of
+them could be, and how by perseverance in the situation he had first
+entered, he had risen from the humblest post to the highest, and had
+long been in a position to help others. This friend is the
+superintendent of a large Sunday-school, and his scholars have
+undertaken the support of an English child.
+
+"A lovely cloudless day was just dawning as we arrived at
+Belleville, and we were greeted at the station by the kind voice of
+Mr. Henderson, one of the evangelists, for whose labours in Canada we
+have had so much reason to praise the Lord. The sun had not risen
+when we were first taken across the blue rushing river Moira,
+carrying with it the floating logs, felled far away, and borne by its
+rapid current to the Bay of Quinte, the beautiful shores of which we
+caught sight of just 'as the crimson streak in the east was growing
+into the great sun.'
+
+"But we were now at Marchmont; and lovely as it was in the fresh
+green of spring, (the maples, not yet in full leaf permitting a
+glimpse of the bay,) yet all other feelings were lost in the joy of
+being welcomed by dear Miss Bilbrough, who had been watching for us
+all through the night. Miss Macpherson was allowed but few hours to
+rest before the throng of visitors came to welcome her, and to take
+away the newly arrived little ones. Among the first was a lady, the
+mother of eight girls, who had lost her only son, and who carried
+away, with tears of joy, a boy brought from Southampton workhouse.
+There were farmers from many miles round, bringing their
+recommendations from ministers or other well-known friends; there
+were children who had been brought out the previous year, some
+earning good wages, and bringing their savings to Miss Macpherson,
+too full of joy to say much, but clinging round the one whom the Lord
+had blessed in rescuing so many from want and misery. Among these
+were three former little matchbox-makers, who had known more sorrow
+and care during their early years than is sometimes crowded into a
+lifetime. Tears on both sides were sometimes the only greeting given.
+Pages might be filled with records of one day at Marchmont, records
+of the Lord's goodness to the fatherless and motherless, and those
+rescued from a worse fate still; whose parents would have dragged
+them down into the haunts of drunkenness and sin, from which, in
+later years, it would have been so much harder to reclaim them. Oh,
+that many more in our own land could witness with their own eyes the
+boundless openings for work, and provision made for our poor children
+in the broad lands the Lord has so mercifully spread before us!
+
+"The first experience I had of the home of a Canadian farmer was in
+the neighbourhood of Stirling. Our drive was partly along the banks
+of the river Moira, which, perhaps, from being the first with which I
+was made acquainted, has always appeared to me one of the loveliest
+in 'this land of broad rivers and streams.' After leaving the river,
+our road passed through woods, in which we saw wild flowers of larger
+size and brighter colours than our own, though fewer in number; and
+from a rising ground we saw Stirling beneath us, and a few miles
+beyond reached the dwelling of one who had come out with no other
+riches than the strength of his own hands. His house was humble in
+outward appearance, but contained every comfort, and was surrounded
+by orchard and garden, and many acres of cultivated land. Huge barns
+to hold the abundant produce are always the most conspicuous feature
+in every Canadian farm. Cattle, sheep, and poultry were all around,
+and all his own, and in his own power to leave to the sons growing up
+around him. In this family the sons were all following the father's
+occupation.
+
+"In most families that I have seen, as a good education is within
+the reach of all, some of the sons have preferred following the study
+of law or medicine; the farmers have therefore the more need of
+helpers, and welcome the more eagerly the young hands brought out.
+Though we were quite unexpected, all but one of our party being
+perfect strangers, we were pressed with the usual Canadian
+hospitality to remain the night; and while our horse rested, our kind
+host took out his own team and drove Mr. Thom to visit children
+settled in the neighbouring farms.
+
+"My next experience was that of a farm beyond Trenton, where one of
+the boys was engaged. Our drive was along the bay, and the opposite
+shores of Prince Edward's county often reminded me of the Isle of
+Wight as seen from the Hampshire coast. Our road first passed the
+Deaf and Dumb Asylum, a grand and spacious building, a mile out of
+Belleville, and then was bordered by orchards and rich cornfields,
+scattered cottages and farmhouses, with lilac bushes clustering round
+the doors and verandahs. Outside every farmhouse may be seen by the
+roadside a wooden stand, on which are placed the ample cans of milk
+waiting for the waggon to carry them to the cheese factories. No
+fear, it appears, is here entertained either of milk being stolen or
+of fruit being missed from the abundant spoils on either side the
+road.
+
+"At Trenton, beautifully situated near the head of the bay, a boy
+rushed out at the welcome sight of his friend, and farther on more
+greetings of love and gratitude awaited her. The farm we this day
+visited was one of more importance than the last. Four hundred acres
+of ground surrounded a well-built house, two stories high, and
+covering much ground. In such a dwelling a handsome piano is seldom
+missing, and here stood one in the inner drawing-room. Luxuries that
+could be purchased for money were not wanting, but labourers were not
+so easily procured, and the contrast between the interior of the
+house and the rough approach to it was most remarkable.
+
+"So much must necessarily be done with so few hands, that time for a
+flower-garden, or even the making of a neat footpath, cannot be
+found. The mistress of the house looked sadly worn and wearied from
+want of help in her indoor labours.
+
+"Within easy reach of this house stood a much smaller one, built by
+the owner of the farm for himself and his wife to retire to whenever
+their eldest son should choose a bride and undertake the farm. This I
+have seen elsewhere in Canada and have also known the heir of the
+property to go out for the day helping at another farm, where no
+labourer could be found in the neighbourhood. No contrast could be
+greater to one coming from the sight of the constant distress in the
+crowded East of London,--distress arising from want of work, food,
+light, air, and room to live and breathe in, and the comfort here
+beheld and experienced through the abundance of all; the pure fresh
+air, the sight of 'God's blessings growing out of our mother earth,'
+the ground ready to bestow so rich a return for all the labour
+bestowed on it, and the only want that of the human hands--the hands
+that, in our own land, are to be had so easily, that human beings are
+expected to work like machines, and human frames are used as though
+made of brass or iron."
+
+Miss Macpherson was not permitted to remain many days quietly at
+Belleville. The call came for her to go farther into Western Canada,
+and this eventually resulted in the establishing of the Home at Galt.
+The journey is thus described in her own words:--
+
+"Believing that our gift was to pioneer, we left our dear friends
+embosomed at Marchmont among the bursting maple trees in loveliest
+spring-time. At early dawn on May 23rd we started, with a party of
+twenty of our boys of different ages, for Woodstock and Embro, a
+district of country where thousands of Scotch families have settled,
+and where there has been a wave of blessing from the Lord, through
+the faithful preaching of evangelists in the past year. Therefore we
+longed to 'spy' the land, not so much to gain an increase of dollars
+or more cultivated land for our boys, but our object was to find
+hearts that had been awakened to newness of life; and we trusted that
+with such our children would be nourished by the sincere milk of the
+Word, and grow thereby into godly men and faithful witnesses of the
+Lord Jesus."
+
+"At the close of a long and hot day's travel, we reached Woodstock;
+and though a single telegram had been the only announcement of our
+expected arrival, warm hearts greeted us. Next day the boys were
+gazed at, admired, wished for, questioned, and _feted_, until we
+began to fear lest they should be spoiled by seeing the great demand
+for them, and the eagerness with which they were sought after, being
+considered, as they term them, 'smart boys.' With ourselves it was a
+day of much prayer for the needed wisdom. And in the afternoon,
+(being the Queen's birthday, and kept by loyal Canadians as a
+complete holiday), the dear boys went off with us through shady
+groves for a walk. We went into a cemetery, and read together from
+our penny Gospels the 9th of St. John. But here we were found out,
+and invited to one of the loveliest country-seats we had ever seen.
+It had been an old Indian settlement, and from its groves we had a
+view of the distant woodlands clothed in richest foliage. On a
+beautiful lawn, the old Scotchman, with tearful tenderness, fed our
+dear boys with unaccustomed dainties, and jugs full of new milk."
+
+"In the evening a Scotchman arrived from a still more western
+district, Arkona, deputed by his neighbours to come for seven more
+boys. We could, however, only spare him five. The boy he took from us
+last year had behaved so well, that the demand had increased. Then
+came those painful leave-takings; and to see great boys of sixteen
+and seventeen sobbing, was no easy work for my clinging heart; but He
+who scattered His disciples, and went Himself by lonely pathways,
+knew our need, even at this time."
+
+"Next day we went farther inland, nine miles beyond the railroad, to
+Embro. There we found 'democrats,' each with a pair of horses, for the
+boys and luggage, in which they went off in high glee, under the care
+of a good man of my own name; and for myself and friend, a Highlander
+long frae the hills of our native land, had sent a carriage and pair
+of splendid spirited horses."
+
+"Our party of boys had by this time considerably decreased; and had
+they been hundreds instead of ones, of similarly trained boys, there
+would have been no difficulty in distributing them into good homes."
+
+"Canada is just now in a most prosperous state. Farmers' sons do not
+remain at home, but either, enter professions or stores, or go
+farther West to colonise. Hence the need of further help, which is
+met by our boys, who take their place, beginning with the A B C of
+farm-work, or, as Canadians express it, 'choring round.'
+
+"This new district was very pleasing to a Scotch eye--hill and
+dale, rich woods, substantial farmhouses, richly cultivated orchards,
+beautiful with blossom; picturesque views of gushing rivers in wild
+gorges, with grand old monarchs of the forest telling the tales of
+years gone by, ere the emigrant's axe had laid their companions low."
+
+"We reached a lovely village, and were warmly welcomed by 'Macs' of
+every name, reminding one of childhood's summers spent in the
+Highlands of old Scotia. Here we were at home; the sweet assurance of
+a Saviour's love shone in the faces that now surrounded us; we were
+on the trail of an evangelist, and Jesus 'lifted-up' had been beheld,
+making faces beam with thankfulness to Him who had given Himself for
+them."
+
+"The kind McAuley, who had opened his house and heart in expectation
+of the whole twenty boys from London, had himself been overwhelmed
+with love-offerings in the shape of food the good neighbours had sent
+in, vying with each other in showing kindness to the orphan and the
+stranger.
+
+"Ah! what a power and privilege is granted to us women, in that we
+are permitted to arise and second the work of the evangelist by
+showing our faith by our works, and giving to the Christians in this
+land of plenty and _no_ poverty objects upon which to work out
+their love! Words fail to depict the extreme tenderness and delicate
+attention shown to us, for Jesus' sake, during the forty-eight hours
+we spent in the midst of this kindred people.
+
+"In the evening the old Scotch kirk was filled to the door, and
+after the singing of some sweet hymns and several heart-breathings of
+prayer, we spoke of the dealings of the Lord in this mission among
+the children of our million-peopled city. Whilst doing this, it was
+difficult to realise that we were not at home, among the dear
+brothers and sisters who are wont to meet with us for prayer at the
+Home of Industry.
+
+"The thank-offering to the Lord at the close was spontaneous, also
+the supply of food sent in by the farmers, and which was sufficient
+for a hundred children. It seemed almost more than my poor heart
+could bear when I called to mind the starving multitudes gathered in,
+and ravenously devouring the morsel of bread dealt out to them in
+London. It made me long that the Christian women of our land would
+rise up in some great national movement, and help many thousands of
+our oppressed families to come out to this land of plenty, where
+millions of acres are crying for labour. It is no romance nor ideal
+of a heated brain, but a plain, practical way of showing our
+Christianity, this bearing the burdens of many a sinking, crushed-down
+family.
+
+"The much-dreaded Canadian winter is really the most enjoyable
+period of the whole year, and when it is over one hears of nothing
+but sorrow that 'winter's noo awa.'"
+
+Miss Macpherson had intended returning to England in October, but
+was delayed for a time by many calls for service. From Montreal she
+writes:--
+
+"Strike another note of praise for the answer to the many prayers of
+our Glasgow fellow-labourers. A friend in Scotland has been stirred up
+to give 2000 pounds in order to build an Emigration Refuge in that
+city, that homeless lads may be trained for Canada. Let us unite in
+asking that ere long similar Homes may be opened in Edinburgh and
+Liverpool, where poor and oppressed orphans abound. Before returning
+to you, we trust that corresponding Homes on this side will be in
+course of preparation, one in the East and another in the West, so
+that when the 150 young emigrants arrive at Quebec, fifty can proceed
+at once to each Home for distribution.
+
+"We leave Marchmont accompanied in our mission carriage by two boys;
+and these two have histories which contain a lesson for all boys.
+Their antecedents in England were much the same--orphanage, want of
+caretakers, misery. One is still self-willed, having no mercy on
+himself, a runaway from the home in which we had placed him, and was
+brought to us a second time by the police as homeless. We are now
+taking him back to his master to hear all about the grievances, and
+find out that they arose from his determination not to go to school.
+A boy that does not value the opportunities afforded him, but prefers
+growing up in ignorance, must suffer for it sooner or later. May all
+boys who read this determine to apply themselves to every lesson
+heartily; each difficulty overcome will render it more easy to master
+the next.
+
+"The other boy was one of the first hundred; he arrived by train
+from Toronto at midnight, and rang us up, expecting admittance, for
+he felt that he was coming home to see his friends, his master having
+given him a holiday. This boy, though utterly alone in the world,
+snatched by us from a life in London stables, stands there, at
+fourteen, a self-reliant little man, with his purpose in life
+clearly defined. He is not many minutes in the house before he
+discloses the joy it is to come home, and tells us how he has as good
+a suit of Sunday-clothes to put on as any gentleman.
+
+"Next morning he sits during Bible-lesson in the schoolroom side by
+side with the ne'er-do-weel. Both are received for Jesus' sake, the
+one in his poverty and self-will, the other in his good suit and
+self-complacency, but both still wanting the 'one thing needful' to
+fit them for the home and mansions on high. Whilst endeavouring to
+explain how Jesus had loved them, and wrought out a righteousness for
+them, and was as willing to receive them as we had been, and that He
+had a large and loving heart, and cared for the many hundreds still
+wandering about in the great city, tears filled the eyes of the
+little group. Just picture what we felt as J--- P---, in the most
+humble and childlike way, put his hand in his pocket and drew out
+twenty-five dollars, saying, 'Miss, that will bring another.'
+
+"My words ceased, and a choking feeling came into my throat as the
+lesson was being learnt by half-a-dozen of self-willed returned boys.
+Much we longed that all our children could have witnessed this scene.
+Very few of them, except the selfish and depraved, would like to be
+behind J--- P--- in having the privilege of giving us so much
+encouragement in this work.
+
+"The first year J--- P--- received no wagers, only his food and
+clothes; now, his services having become valuable, he gets six
+dollars a month. He has purchased for himself a silver watch, a good
+overcoat, and has also returned most honourably his passage-money,
+therefore he has received his neatly framed and beautifully
+illuminated discharge, to hang up, showing he is now no longer a poor
+emigrant.
+
+"J--- holds that the habit of saving the cents is the secret of
+success, and he intends plodding on until he can purchase a farm of
+his own, and we think it will not be very long before he does so, if
+his life is spared. Thus he accompanies us as a son, and as such is
+received and lodged in the various homes we visit.
+
+"It was most amusing to hear him tell the runaway sitting by him in
+the carriage how to get on and advise him not to give way to his own
+will and his own temper.
+
+"By boys this advice is more easily given than taken, as was proved
+in this case. We left the boy on his promising that he would be
+obedient and go to school. But the subtle enemy, ere the day was out,
+gave this boy of fourteen years old the idea of being his own master,
+rather than live out that wondrous word of four letters, _obey_.
+Again he escaped from a good home, and after wandering many miles,
+knocked late at night at a ferryman's, and asked for food. Here
+Robert Jack, a kind Scotchman, recognised the English corduroy, and
+at once met him with, 'You are one of Miss Macpherson's' boys.' He
+was fed and lodged, and strange to say, next day we were led, in the
+course of our journey, to cross that very ferry. The young runaway
+seeing us from the window exclaimed, 'Oh! here comes Mr. Thorn,' and
+would have hidden away from our sight, knowing he was doing wrong,
+for he would not understand that we were his friends, willing to help
+and love him. Oh, may all boys who read this seek earnestly to
+believe that Jesus is their very best Friend, and He only can remove
+their self-will and blindness of heart!
+
+"In crossing the ferry early in the summer, we had spoken faithfully
+to this ferryman, and had sent him the 'Life of Robert Annan' by
+post. They had been schoolfellows together, and after reading the
+book, he got many others to read it also. This small sixpenny gift,
+accompanied by prayer, had done a work. Robert was willing to become
+a co-worker with us, and is now trying to train to honest industry
+our little self-willed runaway. Thus we hope that in the log-hut of
+the Scottish ferryman he may learn to read and write, and that the
+blessed Spirit will work on the hearts of both master and boy.
+
+"The experience of yearning over this orphan boy moved our hearts to
+speak of Jesus, who bore with such long-suffering love our own
+rebelliousness ere we came to Him."
+
+The story has been told before of the first poor girl rescued in the
+East of London through Miss Macpherson's blessed agency, one whose
+father had died suddenly of cholera, whose mother had thrown herself
+into a canal, and, though rescued, had been, through drink, a source
+of misery to her children. The eldest brother [Footnote: This boy,
+now a shoemaker, has written asking to be allowed to have one of the
+lads, as an apprentice.] of this poor girl, about sixteen years of
+age, had been brought out the previous year to Canada, and appearing
+one day at Marchmont, I thought from his looks and dress that he was
+one of the farmers' sons come to engage a boy, little thinking that
+so short a time had passed since he was destitute as the poorest
+among them.
+
+In England we are so accustomed to the sorrowful sight of neglected
+children, it can hardly be imagined by us how such a fact strikes a
+Canadian. Often have I seen the tears in the eyes of the farmers at
+the sight of little ones brought so far to seek a home at such an
+early age. This was especially the case with regard to little Annie
+referred to in the following lines, the youngest of three sisters
+left motherless in a workhouse. When I last saw this little sufferer
+health and strength had been given to her, and she was the pet of all
+in a home of comfort.
+
+
+  "OUT OF THE MOUTHS OF BABES AND SUCKLINGS."
+
+  "From the mouths of babes and sucklings,"
+    Was the Psalmist's grateful word,
+  "Thou hast perfected Thy praises,"
+    And I thank Thee, gracious Lord.
+
+  And e'en yet from infant voices
+    Words of wondrous meaning fall,
+  And the Christian's heart rejoices,
+    For he knows his Father's call.
+
+  Little Annie sat beside me,
+    Smiles upon her baby face;
+  Early sorrow, early suffering,
+    On her cheek had left their trace.
+
+  Little feet, too weak to wander
+    Where the merry children play;
+  'Neath the flickering aspen shadows,
+    By broad Quinte's sunny bay.
+
+  Thoughts of pitying love came thronging
+    As I thought how Jesus came;
+  How He blessed the little children,
+    How He healed the sick and lame.
+
+  So I asked the little maiden,
+    "Annie, Jesus cares for you--
+  If we saw Him now beside us,
+    Can you think what He would do?"
+
+  Strangely solemn, seemed the answer,
+    (Listen, sisters o'er the sea);
+  "Jesus, just to you would give me,
+    And would bid you care for me."
+
+  English sisters, rich and gifted!
+    Ask your hearts, Can this be true?
+  Christ hath many a homeless orphan,
+    Is He saying this to you?
+
+  "Take this child and nurse it for Me?"
+    Will you dare to say Him nay?
+  Dare to let His children perish,
+    Or in evil paths to stray?
+
+  If too stately are your dwellings,
+    Send them hither, let them come;
+  In our fair Canadian homesteads,
+    Gladly we will make them room.
+
+  Room where orchard boughs are dropping
+    Fruit that waits their hands to pull;
+  Room to rest, and room to labour,
+    Room in home, in church, in school.
+
+  When the winter snow lies sparkling,
+    They shall share our winter joys,
+  Tinkling bells and merry sleigh-ride,
+    With our laughing girls and boys.
+
+  When our maple pours its nectar,
+    They shall share the luscious treat;
+  Where the woodland strawb'ries cluster,
+    Glad shall stray their little feet.
+
+  When our Sabbath-scholars gather,
+    They shall join the joyous throng;
+  Sweet will sound their English voices,
+    'Mid the burst of children's song.
+
+  Sisters, shall we share the blessing?
+    Bring the lambs to Jesu's fold?
+  _Ours_ are homes of peace and plenty,
+    To _your_ hands He gives the gold.
+
+  S. R. GELDARD.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+1872.
+
+The need of a Home further West--Burning of the Marchmont Home--Home
+restored by Canadian gifts--Miss Macpherson and Miss Reavell arrive
+in Canada--First visit to Knowlton in the East--Belleville Home
+restored by Canadian friends--Help for the Galt Home--Miss Macpherson
+returns to England--Miss Reavell remains at Galt.
+
+
+In her first letter on returning to England Miss Macpherson writes:--
+
+"BELOVED FELLOW-WORKERS,--Once more at home among the old familiar
+scenes in the East of London, the sadness and the sin shadows our joy
+and thanksgiving. My first visit in the immediate vicinity of the
+Refuge I shall not soon forget.
+
+"Taking good news of Andrew in Canada to his mother, I found his
+father lying dead drunk in one corner, and his little brother lying
+dead waiting to be carried off to the grave by the parish in the
+other.
+
+"In the first low women's lodging-house, I found a poor misguided
+girl asking me, 'How's my little sister?'
+
+"Passing on to Mr. Holland in George Yard, I cheered him with
+answers to his many inquiries as to the placing out of his rescued
+ones.
+
+"Many a warm shake of the hand I had from poor costermongers and
+grey-headed men, for what had been done for their belongings in
+taking them from the sin and want around.
+
+"My way is now open to go forward, as means permit, to rescue girls
+and train them for Canada or for service in England."
+
+Miss Macpherson goes on to tell of the purchase of the Galt Home,
+300 miles westward, and states the need in these words:--
+
+"We found that to educate our Canadian family, and thoroughly fit
+them to be of value to the farmer, a few fields to work upon would be
+an advantage, that they might see the effects of new soil and
+climate, in the growth of vegetables, shrubs, and farm produce."
+
+"Thou hast tried us as silver is tried. We went through fire and
+through water, but Thou broughtest us out into a wealthy place." This
+was the experience of the beginning of the year 1872. Miss
+Bilbrough's letter brings to mind Deut. xxxiii. 12.
+
+"BELLEVILLE, _January 29_, 1872.
+
+"DEAREST ANNIE,--It is indeed difficult to begin a letter to you,
+when I know you always open our letters feeling sure of good news.
+And yet this one brings you the best you ever had. Lives spared, I
+trust, to work more than ever for Him who hath done such great things
+for us. Our song is one of continual thankfulness and praise, and I
+know you will join us in giving thanks. Our beautiful Home lies in
+ruins, only the walls standing, and there is one little grave dug by
+Benjamin Stanley's, containing the ashes of little Robbie Gray.
+
+"I hardly know how to begin, it still seems so terrible and real.
+
+"We had had a happy Sabbath. We were to have an early breakfast next
+morning, and I awoke in the night thinking it was daylight. Miss
+Baylis came to my door, which was shut, saying, 'Miss Bilbrough,
+there's smoke!'
+
+"I jumped up, and oh, the feeling, when I saw the house full of
+dense white smoke! I knew well what it must be. I rushed to Mr.
+Thorn's room, he was sleeping heavily, but I roused him, saying the
+house was on fire; then I went down to the boys, Philips and Keen,
+who were in the schoolroom, called them up and told them to save the
+children, and rushed upstairs, nearly choked, calling 'Fire!'
+
+"Mrs. Wade, Miss Baylis, Miss Moore, all came out. Downstairs I ran
+again and unfastened the front door, and went to the corner of the
+verandah. Philips was getting out the children, and the flames were
+coming on with frightful rapidity; it was blowing a perfect
+hurricane, and the whole building was enveloped in smoke and ashes; I
+ran back half-way upstairs to see if I could get a dress, or my
+cash-box, or watch, but I was too much suffocated, and had to get back
+to the front door. Mrs. Wade, Miss Baylis, and the children, were
+making for the fence. I saw Mr. Thorn, and called to him to search
+again with Philips for the children.
+
+"The intense cold in the snow seemed almost worse to bear than fire.
+We all climbed the fence and ran to the nearest house. Poor Mrs. Wade
+had got her hands frozen, even in that short time, as the thermometer
+was about twelve or fifteen degrees below zero.
+
+"Here we called over the names of the children; some were here, some
+in another house, sitting over the stove with bare legs and only
+their little shirts on. Soon little Robbie was found missing, but
+Philips had lifted him out, and he had been seen running with the
+others; we suppose that the poor child, blinded with smoke, ran to
+the front door, and then went through into the schoolroom, the place
+he knew best, where he must soon have been suffocated. It was all
+over in a few minutes, all around was fearfully bright and lurid. The
+engine came, but was of course too late, the fire spread with such
+terrible rapidity.
+
+"We sat almost stunned with fright and cold. Soon the Shearings and
+Elliotts came, bringing clothes, &c., and we went to dear Mrs.
+Elliott's house in a sleigh. It was not four A.M., and the fire was
+almost out, burning round the verandah and the window-sills.
+
+"Oh, how our hearts went up in thankfulness to God for sparing
+mercies! A few moments more, and we dread to think of what might have
+been. Miss Baylis' door being ajar, the smoke got in; mine was shut,
+my room was free, but I saw the light on the window. Miss Moore was
+in Miss Lowe's bedroom; she could not realise it, and, after being
+first roused, was going to bed again.
+
+"As soon as it was daylight I went with Mr. Thorn to see the ruins.
+All around the melted snow had frozen like iron; the thermometer,
+which was hung on the verandah, was found uninjured; nothing was
+found but a table and one stove; all gone. Books, papers, clothes,
+everything; but there in the blackened ruin lay distinctly the
+charred frame of little Robbie. Mr. Thorn went for Dr. Holden and a
+coffin, and the remains were brought to Mr. Elliott. Dear little
+fellow, he was the most prepared of any of the little ones to go.
+This is such a comfort to me now.
+
+"I had gathered the little ones round me in the evening before the
+fire, when the others were at church, and we had sung some sweet
+hymns. I made Robbie especially stand beside me, and made him sing
+alone. 'I will sing for Jesus,' was the hymn he chose. He sang it
+sweetly. How little did I think in a few hours he would be singing
+the 'new song' before the throne! His history in our book is very
+touching. 'Robert Gray, aged six; a happy little man, who can say
+little or nothing about himself.' The rest of the page is blank, as
+he had never been away from Marchmont. An inquest was held over the
+body. We wished it especially, so that we might have an investigation
+as to the cause of the fire.
+
+"Dearest Annie, when I think what it might have been, and the grief
+of all at home, and the intense sorrow, oh, it makes one so thankful!
+I felt Jesus very precious through it all, recognising His hand in so
+many ways. I had had much blessed communion with Him that Sunday, and
+several seasons of sweet prayer. I can fully realise that for me it
+would have been all right, if the Lord had ordered it otherwise; but
+for the sake of those at home I bless God for life spared, and trust
+earnestly the Lord may give us all increased power and spiritual
+life. Having passed through 'the fire,' may we also receive the
+baptism of the Holy Ghost. And oh, may our lives be more and more
+devoted to His service! Not our own, but bought with a price, may we
+live more and more unto Him who hath loved us!
+
+"Miss Moore was out at nine o'clock in the woodshed; all was safe
+then. Mrs. Wade locked the doors at ten with stable lantern in the
+wood-shed (the boys' summer dining-room), and then all was safe; the
+fire in the kitchen stove was out. She came shivering in to-prayers a
+little after ten. The parlour fire was nearly out, and Miss Baylis
+and I were quite cold. The fire upstairs was not lit, nor had any
+ashes been taken up on Sunday morning. If any had been removed on
+Saturday, they were placed in iron vessels in the first kitchen. The
+fire broke out in the further corner of the wood-shed. The cause is
+so far quite unknown, and will, I suppose, ever remain so.
+
+"I send you the account of the inquest, and other papers, as I know
+well it is better to see and know all particulars. I cannot, however,
+tell of all the kindness and sympathy we have met with--a telegram
+from Mr. Claxton, offering money, &c., Hon. George Alien wishing to
+take the children; Mr. Eason: 'I am praying for you, can I help by
+coming?' numbers of friends coming with clothes of every kind;
+subscriptions got up to start a new Home immediately; sewing
+societies at work and ladies canvassing the town in every direction
+for help to furnish another Home at once. I could not even begin to
+particularise our friends. Mr. Flint came up at eight, begging me to
+come to his house.
+
+"This afternoon we have buried little Robin. The service was held in
+Mr. Elliott's church.
+
+"How often we have thought of home friends during the last few days,
+and longed that you might not hear the news in any way till this
+reaches you, which will be nearly three weeks! and now you must fancy
+us happy at our work again, and as much under the loving care and
+protection of our God as ever, trusting only to Him for everything,
+that whether absent from the body, or still in the flesh, we may be
+more and more filled with faith and love for the Lord's work.
+
+"Wednesday. We seem each day to realise only more fully our
+marvellous escape. The firemen say they never remember such a night,
+nor saw a house burn so rapidly. Now every one is so kind; things
+keep pouring in for the new Home;--it is to be Canadian this time,
+not English. Mr. Flint says he has written to you, telling you all,
+but he could not tell you one quarter of the kindness we have met
+with on every hand.
+
+"Oh, that verse in Isa. lxiv. II, is so expressive:
+
+"'Our beautiful house where we praised Thee is burnt up with fire,
+and all our pleasant things are laid waste.' What a ruin Marchmont is
+now! the blackened ashes all around--nothing but the walls standing.
+I feel such mingled feelings as I look at it--all the happy days we
+have spent there--the holy associations never to return again.
+
+"'We have no continuing city here,' was the text which filled Mr.
+Thorn's mind, and it is one we hope more than ever to keep before us.
+This trial seems to have given the four of us deeper sympathy and
+interest together. So nearly entering eternity together, and yet
+saved, we trust, to render more devoted service to the Master, for
+having passed through this fiery trial.
+
+"I can hardly bear to think of all the sorrow you are feeling for
+us; but oh! let thanksgiving and praise be uppermost. It is the one
+thought that fills our minds. We are wonderful in health, no cold,
+and are as occupied as possible, looking after the children, and
+preparing for the new Home. Happily, Charlie the horse, the sleigh,
+and the buffalo robes are safe, and most useful we find them now.
+
+"I am so thankful that it will be nearly three weeks ere you know,
+and you must think of it as past and gone, and, if possible, just at
+first see the beginning of great good in making the work more known,
+and rousing the sympathies of others."
+
+
+      What, Marchmont gone!
+  That pleasant Home nought but a memory now;
+  And yet, in humble thankfulness we bow,--
+      Father, Thy will be done.
+
+      It was but lent:
+  Thou wilt not that Thy children fix their heart
+  On aught below: theirs is a better part--
+      A treasury unspent.
+
+      Still are its memories dear!
+  The maple shadows that around it lay,
+  Stirred by the breezes from the silvery bay,
+      Or bathed in moonlight clear--
+
+      How fair were they!
+  Lovely when decked with earliest buds of spring,
+  Loveliest when radiant autumn came to fling
+      A glory on each spray.
+
+      Oh home of praise and prayer!
+  Where glad sweet voices raised the morning hymn,
+  Pleaded for blessing in the twilight dim,
+      Or thrilled the midnight air.
+
+      Can we forget
+  The meetings and the partings we have known?
+  The welcome glad, the farewell's sadder tone--
+      Ah, we remember yet.
+
+      We were not there
+  When thro' its halls the fierce destroyer swept;
+  But God was watching, while our dear ones slept--
+      Safe were they in His care.
+
+      All safe with Him;
+  Yes, for our Robbie "sings for Jesus" now
+  In sweeter tones, with far more sunny brow,
+      And eyes no tear's can dim.
+
+      They wait His word--
+  Stanley and Robbie side by side--and we
+  Caught up together with them soon shall be
+      For ever with the Lord.
+
+  S. R. GELDARD.
+
+
+All former kindness was as nothing compared to that now received, as
+will be seen by the following from Miss Bilbrough:--
+
+"BELLEVILLE, _February 2, 1872_.
+
+"I know that many many prayers are now being offered for us, and
+that the Lord is answering them every minute, giving us sustaining
+grace and wisdom, and help as to the future. I knew it would be five
+weeks before I could hear from you, and I could trust that all we
+might arrange here would meet your approval, as it has generally done.
+
+"However, the Belleville people, with Mr. Flint at their head, quite
+took the matter out of my hand, being determined that they would
+provide and furnish themselves a still better house than Marchmont.
+The sympathy awakened is great, and the pleasure of friends at
+hearing that we could have a large substantial house on the Kingston
+Road for our orphan children was equally so. Mr. Flint has secured it
+for three years, the Council paying the rent and taxes, and
+sufficient is already gathered to furnish it. So that when the first
+arrivals come in May, all will be ready for them.
+
+"How good the Lord is! even out of apparent trial He brings the
+good. We had been praying for special blessing, and in this way,
+(strange as it seems to us), we do recognise the answer."
+
+In March, Miss Macpherson writes:--
+
+"BELOVED FRIENDS,--While you are reading this, my pathway will again
+be upon the mighty deep. The Lord willing, I look to leave Liverpool
+by steam-ship 'Scandinavian,' March 7th. Miss Reavell, who has for
+two years been our scribe in the Refuge, accompanies me. Your prayers
+have gone up that blessing may be ours, as a little band of feeble
+workers for our Lord, and if He has been pleased to try our faith by
+the trial of fire, shall we not praise Him for anything His loving
+hand doth send us? And as one has beautifully said, 'What God takes
+it is always gain to lose.' Heaven is nearer now our little Robbie is
+there; Jesus is dearer, and has quickened us all by His constraining
+love.
+
+"My object in going now to Canada without children is twofold.
+Strength being given, my desire is to visit the new districts, where
+I hope in the coming summer to place out the hundreds now under
+excellent training and holy influence here and in Scotland, and to
+find out Christian families who may be willing to receive them on
+arrival. Plead that the Holy Spirit may fill with power those who are
+daily seeking to win these wanderers back to the fold.
+
+"Secondly, I wish to make use of the late sad calamity, and God's
+wonderful interposition in saving life, so that the teaching may not
+be lost upon the hundreds of immortal souls connected with our
+mission."
+
+It is impossible to describe the eagerness with which the arrival of
+these dear friends was looked for, and day after day, those in
+service in and around Belleville would come with the hope of seeing
+them. And among these were former match-box makers, who had been
+rescued from such depths of sorrow; one of whom had already saved
+from her wages sufficient to pay her brother's passage out, besides
+bringing offerings of her own work towards the furnishing of Miss
+Macpherson's room in the new House. Through many dangers they were
+brought safely, in answer to many prayers, but Miss Reavell had
+suffered much on the voyage, and one special instance of the Lord's
+care I cannot help here recording, "They shall abundantly utter the
+memory of Thy great goodness." Miss Reavell had been a most diligent
+and necessary labourer at the Home of Industry night and day. At sea
+her strength seemed to fail; she only existed on oranges, and the
+last orange was gone. In the midst of a fearful storm, signals were
+made by another vessel that they were without food, and the life-boat
+was put off from the steamer, carrying to the distressed vessel a
+barrel of flour and pork In return, a thank-offering came in the
+shape of two boxes of the best oranges, the ship being from Palermo,
+bound for New York with a cargo of fruit. "Even the very hairs of
+your head are all numbered."
+
+The visit of Miss Barber, a Canadian lady of influence, to the Home
+of Industry, was the means of interesting friends in the Eastern
+Townships' Province of Quebec, and of leading them to open a Home at
+Knowlton.
+
+The following letter is from Miss Macpherson:--
+
+"The year's experiment in this new district will enable us to test it
+as to whether it will be a suitable one for our children; if so, it
+will not cost many pounds of English money. The old house we have
+taken was formerly a tavern, and its ball-room will make us an
+excellent dormitory; the rent is only 20 pounds, and is paid entirely
+by a Canadian. Should the children thrive under the fostering care of
+our dear friend Miss Barber (now doubly dear to us all after the
+winter of help she has given us in the East of London), there will be
+no difficulty in establishing a permanent Home, built of brick, half
+of the necessary sum having already been subscribed in and around
+Sheffield, Leeds, and Nottingham; and the other half our friends in
+the province of Quebec have freely offered to collect. Thus will those
+both on this side and at home share the benefits; the old country
+seeing hundreds educated that might otherwise in a few years become
+expensive criminals, and the new country, receiving, ere habits are
+fixed, young life which, in future, will call Canada 'the home of its
+adoption.'
+
+"Though, according to all accounts, this is an uncommonly heavy
+snow-season, I have no fears for the children, the air is so dry and
+clear, and well fitted to invigorate their frames. This morning I
+started about five o'clock, and soon forgot the fear which had crept
+over me but a week ago, when I took my first winter journey among
+these snowy hills. 'Knowledge is power,' and the experience of dangers
+met and passed gives quietness and confidence.
+
+"You will be imagining that owing to these prolonged snow-storms all
+work is stayed. Not so; everything goes on most vigorously--lumbering,
+carting, cutting wood for summer's need. Ladies seem
+always busy; yet as it is often seen, those who have most to do can
+best arrange to be at leisure. There is an education of forethought
+caused by having to watch against the heat and cold; this has deeply
+interested me in the practical manner in which they are going to work
+in furnishing this Eastern Townships' Home. In return for the
+kindness shown to this Mission, may the whole district be spiritually
+blessed, and may our loving Lord be the joy and strength of each
+faithful labourer!
+
+"The heavy calamity that it pleased our Father to send by fire, has
+accomplished in a few weeks that which would otherwise, humanly
+speaking, have taken many years to make known. Our motives and
+principles of service were all new, and even our simple faith and
+trust in prayer were often misunderstood. Though we had travelled
+several thousands of miles in Canada, seeking to stir up Christians
+to aid us in finding and watching over the right home for our
+children, we had no medium on this side like 'The Christian,' by
+which we could communicate with those like-minded, and tell them of
+our burdens.
+
+"The Hon. B. Flint tells us how the hearts of his fellow-townsmen
+were moved with compassion on hearing of the destruction of the
+Children's Home, on that terrible night, and that some of them
+attempted to ascend the hill and offer aid, but had to turn back,
+unable to face the hurricane and tempest.
+
+"The citizens of Belleville have contributed freely towards
+replacing the Home, and the Lord's dear children all over the land
+have sent their love-offerings. The County Council received
+testimonies from many of the homesteads concerning the six hundred
+children placed out round Belleville, and generously contributed 500
+dollars to show their esteem for the work. The funds in hand led Mr.
+Flint, after the withdrawal of the rented house at first proposed, to
+purchase a freehold of three and a quarter acres, possessing a good
+house and out-buildings, which were adapted to our use by the
+addition of dormitories, and furnished by the aid of the ladies of
+Belleville. This Home is now given to us for so long as it shall be
+used by our mission band in connection with the emigration of
+children to this district."
+
+In April, a detachment of thirty elder boys arrived, to be followed
+quickly by others.
+
+In June 1872, when 150 emigrants arrived, 50 children were sent to
+each of the three Homes now opened to receive them, and for several
+years this order was observed, until other arrangements were made to
+meet the growing character of the work.
+
+The following tells of the progress of the Galt Home:--
+
+"Many will wish to know how this Home at Galt shapes itself, and
+would be amused at the varied occupations of the past week.
+
+"A Canadian springtime is very brief, so we have had to buy a span
+of horses and a plough, and, with the aid of other neighbours'
+ploughs, the corn and clover seed will soon be all sown. The ladies
+of several churches have met in the council-chamber, and worked at
+all household gear, others superintending the house arrangements, and
+purchasing necessary things.
+
+"My part has been that of a faithful recipient, giving praise from
+hour to hour to Him who hath laid my every burden here on His own
+children's hearts. The past little season has been to me a precious
+rest-time, seeing others work. We expect to be all in order by the
+arrival of our next party. The threshing-floor we have transformed
+into a dining-room; one of the barns is fitted up as a dormitory. The
+chaff-house makes a lavatory; and, from the interest around, we do
+not expect to keep our little men very long out of the homes waiting
+for them.
+
+"The love-tokens here, as at home, are varied in their character.
+Our farmer's wife has set us up with poultry, another with eggs; a
+little boy brought us his pet hen as an offering; indeed, wherever we
+turn, some kind thought is shown, and our hearts are gladdened, and
+our faith is able to rejoice at the prospect of returning home, and
+gathering up another thousand precious young immortals from the
+depths of our sin-stricken cities, and placing them out in homes
+where Jesus is loved."
+
+In June, Miss Macpherson was welcomed back with warm thanksgivings,
+having left the Home at Galt under the wise and loving care of her
+faithful companion, Miss Reavell. In after years Mr. and Mrs. Merry
+devoted themselves chiefly to this branch of the work, and have been
+the watchful and tender foster parents of this ever-varying family.
+It would be hard to say whether Mrs. Merry's presence was more valued
+here, or among the sorrowful widowed mothers in Spitalfields.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+1872-1874.
+
+Letter from Rev. A. M. W. Christopher--Letter from Gulf of St.
+Lawrence-Mrs. Birt's Sheltering Home, Liverpool--Letter to Mrs.
+Merry--Letter from Canada--Miss Macpherson's return to England--
+Letter of cheer for Dr. Barnardo--Removal to Hackney Home.
+
+
+Though human praise is not sought, we cannot but feel peculiar
+pleasure in giving the following testimony from a servant of the Lord
+so much revered as the Rev, A. M. W. Christopher of Oxford:--
+
+"Of all the works of Christian benevolence which the great love of
+Christ constrains His servants to carry on, with which I have become
+personally acquainted, not one, has impressed me more deeply, by its
+great usefulness, than the work of God carried on by Miss Macpherson
+and her fellow-labourers. She has in three years transplanted more
+than twelve hundred boys and girls from almost hopeless circumstances
+of misery and temptation in Great Britain, to healthy, happy,
+industrious homes in Canada. And this has not been all; daily efforts
+have been made in faith and love during the period of training, and
+on the voyage, and in the Distributing Homes in Canada, to win these
+young hearts for Christ by means of the Gospel. There can be no doubt
+that God has blessed these labours of love to bring many to Himself
+in the Lord Jesus.
+
+"When I was in Canada last September, I made three special journeys
+expressly to visit Miss Macpherson's three 'Distributing Homes' at
+Galt, Belleville, and Knowlton, respectively in the west, centre, and
+east of the Dominion.
+
+"On September 10, 1872, I left Toronto at 5.30 A.M., and travelled
+113 miles to the east along the Grand Trunk Railway to Belleville,
+which is 220 miles west of Montreal. I took the Lady Superintendent,
+Miss Bilbrough, by surprise. Her sister was with her, having lately
+brought over a hundred boys. These two young but experienced
+Christians are evidently full of faith and energy and delight in
+their work and of lore to the children. About a thousand boys and
+girls brought out, or sent out by Miss Macpherson, had passed through
+the Home in three years. She has herself placed out 800 boys and
+girls, 600 of whom are in homes around Belleville. She meets with the
+kindest reception from the farmers with whom she has placed these
+children. _She could place out a thousand more if they were at once
+sent out_, the demand is so great. All the orphan children under
+nine years of age are adopted by farmers who have no children, to be
+treated exactly as if they were their own. Miss Bilbrough, and also
+the Lady Superintendents at Galt and Knowlton, never place a child in
+a home unless the farmer brings a testimonial from his minister.
+
+"The burning of the Home very much touched the people of Canada, who
+had learned to appreciate the efforts for good connected with it; and,
+unasked for, dollars from kind Canadians poured in. Miss Bilbrough had
+daily to write thanks to many. More than 3000 dollars (600 pounds)
+were soon sent in, and instead of renting a house, they were able to
+buy the first-rate one they now occupy, and which was given to Miss
+Macpherson, with so much kind feeling, by the Canadians.
+
+"I was equally interested in the work of Miss Reavell in the Home at
+Galt, to the west of Toronto. This had only been established a few
+months before I visited it. Here also I was greatly impressed by the
+patient, painstaking Christian lore of those who had charge of the
+children. The children looked healthy, and happy, and ready for work.
+
+"The last Home I visited was at Knowlton, an eastern township of the
+Quebec Province, south of the St. Lawrence. I heard that Miss Barber,
+the Lady Superintendent, was nursing some of the children who had the
+smallpox. I went to see her. It was quite clear that the love of
+Christ constrained her to devote herself with all her heart and
+strength to the children committed to her care. I spoke with the
+uninfected children before I saw her. I was interested to see how
+accustomed they had been whilst in this Home to be treated with love.
+Soon three little ones climbed upon my knees, whilst I talked of
+Jesus to them and the elder ones. Miss Barber is a lady of good
+position, the half-sister of the excellent Judge of that district,
+lately Minister of Agriculture in the Dominion Government. In early
+life she had very bad health, but has been raised up frond great
+weakness to work most diligently for Christ among the children who
+pass through her Home. Her brother, the Judge, and his wife, who live
+at Knowlton, zealously do all they can to help the good work.
+
+"Many in England know better than I do the great work for God, carried
+on in connection with Miss Macpherson's 'Home of Industry,' Commercial
+Street, Spitalfields, and the similar Homes at Glasgow, Edinburgh,
+Dublin, and Liverpool. Others may visit these, and have their hearts
+stirred up to help forward the work by what they see in those Homes;
+but Canada is a great way off, and, as an independent witness, I
+desire to bear the strongest testimony to the Christian usefulness of
+the work, and to the faithful, the wise and careful manner in which it
+is carried on. A far greater number of children might be thus
+transplanted with the best results, under God's blessing, if
+sufficient means were supplied to Miss Macpherson. May I not hope that
+the great love of Christ will constrain those who read this paper to
+send help promptly, so that this work may be extended, and that many
+more children may be rescued. Remember, dear reader, the love of your
+Saviour for little children. _'Look not every man on his own things,
+but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you,
+which, was also in Christ Jesus'_ (Phil ii. 4, 5). 10 pounds will fit
+out, and pay the passage of a child. How can 10 pounds be better
+spent? Try, dear reader, and raise 10 pounds among your friends, if
+you cannot give it yourself. Or do what you can, however little that
+may seem to you to be. The matter is urgent, the season is passing
+away. Pray send help at once, and strive to interest your friends in
+the work. How many more might be rescued! What a contrast there is
+between the photographs of the miserable, hopeless children, taken
+when they are received at the Homes in this country, and the
+photographs of the same children after they have been a few months in
+Canada; I have many such contrasts with me. They would move you to
+help this work of love. But, the love of Christ must be the great
+motive; yet we should not forget that the Holy Spirit taught St. Paul
+to write, _'He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and
+he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man
+according as he purposeth in his heart so let him give: not grudgingly
+or of necessity, for God loveth a cheerful giver'_ (2 Cor. ix. 6, 7)."
+
+In May of this year, Miss Macpherson took out another party of young
+emigrants, and writes as follows:--
+
+_"On board 'Circassian,' Gulf of St. Lawrence, May 5th, 1873._
+
+"MY DEAR FELLOW-WORKERS,--Hitherto our blessed experience has been
+that 'The beloved of the Lord shall dwell in safety by Him, and the
+Lord shall cover him all day long;' 'The eternal God is thy refuge,
+and underneath are the everlasting arms.' Our song is one of
+unmingled praise, and our little band is strengthened and invigorated
+by the voyage,--no storm permitted to alarm us by day or night We are
+now entering the mighty Gulf, and passing through fields of ice; but
+'He who hath compassed the waters with bounds, and divided the sea
+with His power,' maketh a right way for us and our little ones."
+
+"Morning and evening, my dear fellow-workers have been enabled to
+continue sowing precious seed in these young hearts, so soon to bid
+us farewell. Our steerage has been the rendezvous, when weather
+permitted, of those who love praise and prayer. In quietness and rest
+we have sought to renew our strength by waiting upon the Lord;
+holding up your hands by prayer, dear fellow-labourers, grasping the
+precious fulness of the promises, for you as well as for ourselves,
+that every opportunity given you upon Rag-market, in the courts and
+sorrowful dens around our Home, in every small room prayer-meeting,
+or-when you gather around the Word, may have been used, and
+accompanied by the 'demonstration of the Spirit' and signs following."
+
+"We have to-day realised answers to your prayers for us, whilst
+cutting through miles of ice, going at the rate of two knots an hour,
+but all has been peace and safety."
+
+"We are now beyond the vast acres of frozen sea, and every hour
+brings us into a warmer climate, and nearer to our desired haven.
+Those interested in our little band, may rest assured it has been a
+happy voyage with each one. Not _one_ case of disobedience has
+caused us anxiety. Early to sleep and early on deck has given good
+appetites, as all their brown and rosy cheeks do testify. At this
+point of our journey we recall the experience of May 1870, entering a
+way unpassed heretofore. Now can we praise with a full heart, and
+testify that His own 'I wills,' in Isa. xlii. 16, have been realised
+by us as a little band.
+
+"We are now about to land with our 1520th child, our twelfth voyage,
+without a storm, thousands of welcomes from warm hearts awaiting us.
+Open doors in scores of towns around each of our three missionary
+centres, ready to receive the evangelists who travel with us. We ask
+continued prayers that they may be young Stephens, filled with faith
+and power, and that we maybe guided in the right distribution of the
+tracts and books we carry with us.
+
+"And oh, dear pleaders, remember the many lonely, little hearts we
+are finding homes for; it is very sorrowful work unbinding, as it
+were, the little twinings their sweet, obedient ways have already
+bound around us. Many were writing letters this morning ready to post
+when landing, but very many had not a love-link to earth. One little
+fellow said, 'I ain't got nobody to write to but you.' The one most
+lonely as to earth's relationships will soon become a solitary one
+set in a family; and again, if permitted, we shall return and gather
+in another family from the sad, sad, million-peopled city.--Yours, in
+the bonds of the Gospel,
+
+"Annie Macpherson.
+
+"P. S.--May 7. We have landed under the brightest sunshine, on a
+warm, balmy June-like day, feeling deeply thankful for all our
+heavenly Father's mercies. A deputation of Quebec Christian sisters
+awaited our touching the shore. What a bond is ours in Christ Jesus!"
+
+Allusion has been made to the Home opened by Mrs. Birt at Liverpool;
+and the following letter will show the heart-rending nature of the
+scenes occurring there as in London:--
+
+"August 7.
+
+"Dear Friends,--On the 12th of May last we opened the above Home,
+and there were present on the occasion more ladies and gentlemen
+whose hearty sympathy seemed with us, than the large room could
+comfortably hold. One little destitute fellow was presented as the
+first to enter for protection and kindly care. Since then
+_ninety_ poor tiny creatures have been admitted, and these alike
+share in the love, attention, and comfort found within the walls of
+this happy Home.
+
+"Through the great kindness of the friend who placed the premises at
+our disposal, we have obtained an additional room, which enables us
+to rescue some little girls, many of whom are orphans, who dragged
+out a miserable existence by begging for food, and sleeping wherever
+they could find shelter; others, worse off, were, through their
+relationship, running every risk of being reared to a life of infamy
+and ruin. Others are the children of widowed mothers, who say they
+are willing to work, but finding none of a continuous character, have
+rapidly sunk to a condition of wretchedness from which it seems
+impossible they can rise.
+
+"Seventy have rapidly progressed, and are so obedient and anxious to
+please, that so far as training in this country is concerned, they
+are in a fit state of preparedness for emigration to Canada; and from
+the statements received from our sister, Miss Macpherson, of the
+increased and increasing demand from Canadian families for useful
+boys and girls, to assist them in their house and farm duties, we do
+think that these should be taken without delay to the comfortable
+homes waiting to receive them,--homes in which they will be trained
+to habits of industry, usefulness, and saving.
+
+"The boys' clothes are near completion, and the girls' outfits are
+being made, and greatly helped on by the kind-hearted exertions of
+Christian ladies in Liverpool and Birkenhead, who have brought to the
+Sheltering Home their own sewing-machines, and plied them at full
+speed on our behalf at the weekly sewing-meetings held on Wednesdays,
+from eleven till five P.M. At these gatherings, much to the
+gratification of the ladies, the little ones whose garments they were
+sewing, have sung for their pleasure children's sweet hymns of praise
+to Him by whose love they were being cared for.
+
+"My heart, and the hearts of my few but loving helpers who live with
+me in the Home, have been nearly broken this afternoon by witnessing
+a sight so terrible, that we hope and pray we may never see the like
+again. A most depraved, drunken, and wicked father, set on by two
+women more wicked (because more cunning) than himself, dragged out of
+our Home by main force two dear little girls he had himself, when
+more sober, besought us many times to take in. They knelt, they
+prayed, they begged as for dear life to be left in the Home; when,
+refused by him again and again, they saw he was urged on by the women
+to drag them out, they gave way to their poor little wills and
+screamed, 'I won't go with you! I won't go with you! I know where you
+will take us to! You never cared one bit for us, but now, that we are
+clean and comfortable, and learning to read, you wish to take me
+back. If you do, I will get something to take my life away, rather
+than live with you!' And by the man's sheer force they were carried
+screaming from the Home; and the last thing we heard, through their
+shrieks, was the father uttering threats we cannot repeat. I ran to
+my little room to hide myself and weep; but I heard them screaming
+still, as the poor girls made one more desperate effort at
+resistance. Though now it is three hours since, I hear their
+screaming yet; and, dear friends, I think I shall hear it till I die.
+As a little band, we are completely petrified, bruised, and sore,
+quivering in every nerve, looking up earnestly to God to know His
+Will, and praying that we may have all the other dear ones left to
+train for Him; for the Roman Catholic spirit is bitterness itself
+against thus teaching the little ones.
+
+ "'Jesus loves me, this I know,
+   For the Bible tells me so;
+   Little ones to Him belong,
+   They are weak, but He is strong.'
+
+"Dear friends, pray for our little ones. Money is useful, personal
+help is useful; the thoughtful gifts we receive from time to time are
+useful; but prayer--which 'moves the hand that moves the world'--is
+more useful than all beside. Pray for our children; for those we
+purpose taking to new homes in a distant land, that they may never
+disgrace the Home they have been sheltered in; and for those who have
+been torn away from us, that they may be preserved from temptation,
+and from becoming a curse. Then shall we joyfully take them forth,
+and in God's good time return, and again fill up this spacious Home,
+and feel it the greatest privilege of our life to labour among the
+poor neglected little ones of the streets of these large cities.
+Share then in the blessing wrapped up in the King's word, 'Inasmuch
+as you have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, ye
+have done it unto Me.'"
+
+How great is the contrast in turning from these heart-rending
+details, to the following letters from across the Atlantic:--
+
+"BELLEVILLE, _June 7th, 1873_.
+
+"My dear Mrs. Merry,--I wish you had been with us to-day, and seen
+part of the result of all your patient toil and joyous service for
+the Lord daring the past five years' work among His little ones.
+
+"Knowing the joy it would be to so many of them to see dear Miss
+Macpherson, we sent out postal-card invitations to those living
+within 25 miles. Some few were unable to accept; but between seventy
+and eighty children, with their employers, came in one by one,
+looking so brown and healthy. You would hardly recognise in the tall,
+slim youth, now quite a help to his master, a carpenter by trade, the
+little, tender-hearted George M--, eldest of three orphan brothers.
+It hardly seems three years ago since their father stood up in a
+gathering of Christians, and with failing breath declared what the
+Lord had done for his soul. Then you remember how quietly he passed
+away, leaving his three boys entirely in Miss Macpherson's care. All
+doing so well in Canada--Fred and little Johnnie still in their first
+homes.
+
+"One great pleasure of the children was to roam over the Home under
+the orchard blossoms, glancing over the books of photographs and
+recognising some friend or mate with whom some far different days had
+been spent. Among the attractions were the tables of toys, pictures,
+books, &c., sent out by English friends; and here the little ones
+spent some of their hoarded cents, thinking so much of anything
+really English. About twelve o'clock we gathered in the flower garden
+in front, while sandwiches, buns, and milk were passed round among
+the children. Your sister sat with them chatting to them of old
+times, and answering many questions as to former companions and still
+loved though often silent English friends. Can you picture the eager
+listeners to the familiar voice of one who was to them the link
+between the sorrowful past and the happy future?--a Bible lesson on
+the lost sheep. My eyes often filled with tears when I looked at
+their bright faces, and blessed God for the open door for them in
+this country. There stood Jamie D--, who, with his little brother
+Hughie, formed one of the saddest photographs of childish wretchedness
+even Glasgow streets could produce; so bright, so well-dressed,
+though still with a little of the old look of childish care.
+William C--, the little fellow of four years old, whose mother died
+in India, and the father on his return sank in a London hospital,
+leaving little Willie friendless, was here with a lovely bunch of
+hot-house flowers ready to present to Miss Macpherson, and to receive
+from her one of the beautifully illustrated scrap-books made by
+little English children. Willie has been nearly three years in his
+happy home, surrounded by all the influences of education and
+refinement.
+
+"Now the friends were gathering thickly, and listened while an
+earnest address was given to the boys by Miss Macpherson. When she
+ceased, first one and then another gentleman stood up and gave their
+earnest, hearty sympathy with and approval of the work, and of the
+character of the boys. And here I must tell you, in passing, we
+attribute much to the loving, tender training of your Hampton Home.
+It is not that Canadian farmers would put up with _anything_, or
+that a bad boy is so useful that his faults are overlooked; for here
+every single boy is thoroughly known, and discussed over all the
+country side. Mr. Grover, from the village of Colborne, quite cheered
+our hearts with the good accounts of the twenty in his neighbourhood,
+most of whom have joined his classes, and by their steady industrious
+conduct are recommending themselves.
+
+"He said, 'I do not speak without personal experience. W. O--- has
+been two years in my employ, and a more truthful, upright, honest
+boy, I would not wish to have; he has left now to learn further about
+farming, and I immediately applied for another one from Marchmont,
+and believe W. S--- will prove as successful and honest a servant.'
+Then the Rev. William Bell stood up and bore testimony to your
+favourite Tommy--one of the rescues from Mr. Holland's Shelter, in
+1869. 'I have boarded now over a year in the good farmer's home,
+where Tommy S---lives. He is as good, and truthful, and honest a boy
+as I would wish to have about a house; and his master so appreciates
+his services that he gives him fifty dollars for his first year.
+These boys are in every way a blessing, and advantage to our
+country.' Mr. V., who has been already alluded to, said, 'I sought
+guidance and direction from the Lord before I came to the Home, now
+nearly three years ago, and then I only intended to take one boy; I
+have never regretted I took two. Except one or two days, they have
+never missed school; indeed I do not believe any one could hire them
+to stay away. I know that their labour morning and evening repays me
+for any expense I am at, and they can be at school all the time.'
+Miss Macpherson then told these two boys, F--- and T---, of her
+last visit to their grandmother in the tidy attic in Bethnal Green,
+and how pleased she was to receive the five dollars they had sent
+her. Mr. Ward, a farmer from Sidney, had brought his little boy,
+Tommy S---; and Johnnie, the brother, had come from a home across
+the Bay of Quinte. So there was a touching meeting, and many
+experiences for the two brothers to relate, during one month's
+absence. Mr. Ward told how he intended to educate his boy, and
+trusted he might yet fill some prominent position, for which by
+natural gifts he seemed well qualified. Speaking of the religious
+character of the work, he said, 'I asked him who had taught him so
+much of Jesus? He told me he did not even know who He was till he was
+taken into the Refuge; but now he knows about Him, and of His love
+for little children.' I know you will like to hear particulars of H.
+W---, whose sad history excited so much sympathy, and for whom the
+noble-man's little son gave up his pet pony that he might have the
+money to emigrate him. Well, you could not tell the round-faced,
+happy boy, to be the same. He brought four dollars he had earned
+towards his passage money; is in a good home, and doing well. Also of
+George and Mary F---, who met, after ten months' separation, so
+changed that they hardly recognised each other. How it would cheer
+their kind rescuer's heart (Mr. George Holland) could he see them
+now! but I knew nothing, not even such joy as this, could tempt him
+away from his special work; so I sent the children, to their great
+delight, to the town to get their likenesses taken to send him.
+
+"Altogether the day was a most happy one. But no onlooker could
+fully understand the deep, rich joy of looking into those happy
+faces. Only those who had watched over and prayed with them from the
+beginning could at all enter into this peculiar feeling; and many
+earnest prayers ascended that these loving, tender hearts might be
+won for the Saviour, and from among them many ambassadors for Jesus
+might yet go forth. And for you too, dear friend, that you may be
+strengthened and helped; ever remembering the promise, 'Cast thy
+bread upon the waters; for thou shalt find it after many days'
+(Eccles. xi. i).--Yours, in sweet work for the Lord,
+
+"Ellen A. Bilbrough."
+
+"My very dear Sister,--Could you but see me this morning, started on
+my peregrinations in these snowy regions, you would be amazed. The
+poor worn head perfectly well, after a whole week in the quiet,
+restful Home at Knowlton, where children are being trained,
+sewing-meetings and Bible-readings held, farmers conversed with, and
+my privilege has been to hold up the hands of my two companions, who
+went forth to address Sunday-schools or to preach the gospel.
+
+"Fancy me starting yesterday morning, fixed up in my delightfully
+warm fur cloak, and many other ingenious devices, to defy the cold,
+wintry blast, a drive of eighteen miles. During the journey we
+stopped twice. The first time we met with one of our once poor,
+pale-faced rescues, Katie D---. What a change, now happy and useful,
+compared to the time when we sheltered her from the dreaded return of
+her drunken father from prison!
+
+"As the night closed in, the cold caused us to hasten to our
+journey's end as quickly as the strength of our Home horse would
+admit of. But cheery was it to be told by our friend, as we passed
+one farmhouse after another, 'We have a boy here and a girl there
+doing well.' Sometimes it would be, 'We have had to move a boy; his
+temper did not suit; but since he has been back to the Home, and
+placed out again with a firmer master, he is doing much better.' A
+very hearty Canadian welcome awaited us. Ushered into a warm room,
+our wraps taken off, soon we were seated, enjoying a 'high' tea. It
+snowed all night, and drifted in at every crevice of our bedroom
+window.
+
+"Snow fell all day, and to my idea it seemed improbable for many to
+gather for a meeting. The village street was enlivened all day by the
+constant passing of the sleighs, with merry jingle of bells. It was
+indeed a new scene to witness the gathering of a meeting to hear of
+the orphan and destitute children, whose cause we had come to plead,
+and contradict a report which had gone forth in their district, that
+it was a mass of jail-birds we had brought from England.
+
+"As we arrived, a farmer kindly offered to broom the snow from our
+feet--a process all seemed prepared to do for each other. Then, in a
+good-sized hall, about fifty of all ages gathered around an immense
+stove--ministers, doctors, and farmers, with their belongings. Chairs
+in front of the stove were set for the minister and myself.
+
+"After singing 'Rock of Ages,' etc., and prayer, it was so like a
+family, that it became easy just to tell real story after story as to
+how we find the children, where the means come from, and what is
+required of those who receive them.
+
+"The minister then present was one who, having heard of the work at
+the commencement; had gone to the Home and received little Bessie,
+aged ten. She now came up and gave me a hearty kiss, and then, so
+childlike, showed me her new winter garments. Now who was Bessie? The
+child of a surgeon who had rained his family by intemperance. The
+mother, a teacher in a ladies' school in Germany, earning her own
+bread, after a long and heavy struggle. Bessie is loved and is being
+educated in everything to make her a useful woman.
+
+"Next morning we started for visits to several children. Found the
+first child gone to school. We saw her looking well as we passed the
+school-house, and called her out. All we saw that day filled our
+hearts with deepest thankfulness. The meeting in the evening was held
+in the Congregational Church, well warmed and lighted, and a most
+intelligent-looking gathering. Ere long I espied one of the orphan
+lads, and called him to me, that he might speak for himself, knowing
+that his own words would endorse the work more forcibly than anything
+I could say. He was a bright, intellectual looking youth of fourteen,
+who in a most manly way answered me a few questions. In this way we
+are securing the prayers of God's dear children, and, we trust,
+opening many a heart and home for those who may yet come forth from
+the dens of sin and iniquity of our great cities.
+
+"Our Canadian horse seemed to enjoy the snow as much as we did, even
+though the depth had tripled since our leaving home. How much on this
+journey we have learnt of the continued loving-kindness of our
+covenant-keeping God, making our fears fly, and giving protection
+from the stormy blasts, in forms so comparatively new to us. Every
+person is so kind to us that we are so glad we have been led to yield
+to this service as a child. Many a door, we trust, will soon be wide
+open for earnest evangelists to come and be fresh voices, cheering
+our brethren who are labouring on in these small towns away from the
+front.
+
+"Pray on for us, as a band, that we take not one step _before_
+the Lord, but that we hold not back on account of our weakness or the
+fear of man. Ask for us that we may each one live so close to the
+Lord, that we may be fitted to deal personally with those we meet
+with.
+
+"We are frequently holding up your hands and praying that daily the
+Lord will send the means with the children, and that you all be
+sustained in health. Grace and peace be with you all--Yours, in sweet
+fellowship, A. MP.
+
+"Eastern Townships, Prov. of Quebec, November 18, 1873."
+
+In March, 1874, Miss Macpherson returned from Canada filled with
+praise for the encouragement met with. She had been enabled to plead
+the cause of her children before many in positions of influence,
+judges, merchants, lawyers, and doctors. A choice of two hundred
+homes, amidst the love and affluence of that country, were now
+awaiting her little rescued ones. Her own joy was increased by
+receiving the letter of which she thus writes:--
+
+"The enclosed letter will cheer our brother Dr. Barnardo, by showing
+what a home God has provided for a dear little boy he was permitted
+to rescue and train. Surely the departed mother, from whom our
+brother received the child, would feel that the Lord is indeed the
+Father of the fatherless.
+
+'DEAR MISS,--I embrace this early opportunity of letting you know
+how well pleased we all are with, and how much we like, little Henry
+Tuppen. He is such a willing, obedient, and loving fellow, he has won
+all our hearts, and we feel very much attached to him already. Many,
+very many thanks to you and your fellow-labourers for the invaluable,
+yes, priceless, lessons he has received under your kind care. Surely
+this is much more than "the cup of cold water," and "you shall in no
+wise lose your reward." Oh, may we discharge our duty as you have
+towards this dear little orphan! My visit to you and your home that
+morning was a great blessing to me; never shall I forget it. To hear
+that dear little fellow sing "Bright Jewels," and look around over
+the group of little ones, far from native home, and father and
+mother, brother and sister, and think, "These are the jewels,
+precious jewels," it seemed to bring heaven near. And truly the
+Saviour was present. I never think of it but the tear starts, and a
+silent prayer is offered that the Lord will give them all good
+Christian homes, and that they may be all 'bright jewels,' and great
+shall be your reward. Their heavenly Father sees it all.
+
+'But I am forgetting my main object in writing to you, which is to
+ask you if the little girl, the elder of the two whom we saw, is yet
+provided with a home. If not, we have room for her, and should be
+glad to have her. She would be such good company for my sister, who
+is at home with mother. She would be treated in every way as a
+daughter and a sister. Father is very sorry he did not bring her that
+morning. It seems he thought of it then, but wished to talk it over
+with the rest of the family.'"
+
+Miss Macpherson adds:--
+
+"Who is the little girl asked for to become a daughter and sister?
+None other than the little Eliza who was found deserted seven years
+ago, when only a few weeks old, and who has been most carefully
+trained since then by our beloved sister-labourer, Miss Mittendorf,
+whose toil among infant wanderers deserves the deepest gratitude of
+the children of God."
+
+The Homes at Hampton, endeared as they were by recollections of many
+blessings, were this year vacated. The distance from Spitalfields had
+always been a great strain on the strength of wearied workers, and
+both time and fatigue were spared by removal to Hackney.
+
+The opening of this Home is thus mentioned:--
+
+_November 5_, 1874.
+
+"On Saturday, the New Home situated in London-fields was opened with
+prayer and thanksgiving. It consists of two large old-fashioned
+houses thrown into one, and the situation is, for the neighbourhood,
+remarkably open and airy. Many friends assembled, Mr. Dobbin
+presided, and suggested, at the opening of the meeting, an analogy
+between the Home of Industry, with its various stations, and the pool
+of Bethesda 'having five porches.' Much prayer, and praise followed,
+and worshipful hearts told themselves out in love and adoration. Such
+hymns as 'Call them in,' 'Till He come,' and 'More to Follow,' aptly
+expressed the aspirations and hopes of the earnest workers. Mr.
+Merry, Mr. Maude, and others spoke, and then Mrs. Birt, only two days
+since returned from Nova Scotia, gave accounts of the success of the
+recent voyage, when eighty-three rescued children found happy homes
+on the other side of the water, and most touching particulars of the
+death of little Dickie, who went actually into the earthly harbour,
+and entered the heavenly haven of rest at the same time. In the
+bustle of arrival, 'he was not, for God took him.'"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+1875-1877.
+
+Mrs. Way's sewing--class for Jewesses--Bible Flower Mission--George
+Clarice--Incidents in home work--The Lord's Day--Diary at sea--
+Letters of cheer from Canada.
+
+
+The Home of Industry has been already likened to the Pool of
+Bethesda with its fine porches. Many sights there have been peculiar
+to itself, and in no instance has this in past years been more
+remarkable, than in the meeting for Jewesses, which has been carried
+on ever since the year 1870. From fifty to seventy daughters of
+Israel are gathered weekly, through the Lord's blessing on the
+patient, unwearied labours of his honoured servant Mrs. Way. Greatly
+indeed should she be honoured, for she diligently sought out these
+lost sheep, when few comparatively could be found to "care for their
+souls." When first told of "the name at which every knee shall bow,"
+much scorn and contempt were manifested, but Mrs. Way is now cheered
+by many signs of the Spirit's work, and when a hymn of praise to the
+"Crucified One," is heard from the inner hall on the ground floor,
+visitors may be startled to know the voices are those of Hebrew
+mothers.
+
+Again the Pool of Bethesda is brought to mind, as love for the sick
+and suffering is shown in a way hitherto unthought of. In 1875, the
+Home of Industry became a centre of the now well-known Bible Flower
+Mission. One of the much-loved helpers recorded this touching
+incident:--
+
+"In the early spring of 1874, a snowdrop, primrose, and two or three
+violets which had been casually enclosed in a letter from an East-end
+worker to Mrs. Merry, were passed round her sewing class of 200 poor
+old widows, 'for each to have a smell,' and then divided and given to
+three dying Christians, one of whom breathed her last fondly clasping
+them. From that time flowers were collected through the medium of
+'Woman's Work,' etc., and during the season distributed by the ladies
+at the Home of Industry among the sick in the neighbouring courts,
+and in different hospitals.
+
+"Again the hedges, tipped with tiny coral buds, primroses, and
+daffodils peeping up amid the brushwood, golden-eyed celandines and
+daisies lifting their sweet faces with smiles of welcome, remind us
+of the near approach of the bright spring-time. But the heart is
+saddened, and the joy of seeing this fresh burst of
+resurrection--loveliness is clouded, when we turn to gloomy, stifling
+courts and lanes in the crowded cities, where gleams of sunshine scarce
+ever penetrate; the lives of whose miserable inhabitants are yet more
+utterly devoid of brightness; to whom the voice of spring is an
+unmeaning sound; to sick ones in these courts, who have no easier
+couch for the pain-filled limbs than a heap of shavings on the hard
+floor of a room filled with noisy children, and disorderly men and
+women; to other sufferers tossing feverishly in hospital wards, with
+nothing softer for the tired eyes to rest on than the endless stretch
+of whitewashed walls, the background of long rows of patients whose
+sad pale cheeks vie in whiteness with the sheets and walls: and the
+cry ascends?
+
+"'Oh, that a tithe of the wealth of fragrant, many-coloured flowers
+so lavishly spread over gardens, fields, and hedgerows, could be
+brought to cheer those who so dearly prize each separate bloom!'
+
+"And once more down, deeper down, into the haunts of vice, smiling
+so sweetly with the radiance of heavensent gifts, these messengers
+may go--ready-made missionaries--to open doors and hearts fast locked
+hitherto, but which must yield to their gentle influence; and thus
+prepare the way for the ministry of the word of salvation.
+
+"Oh, that men and women surrounded by loveliness could see as the
+angels do!--strong natures, hardened by years of sin, whose stony
+hearts are melted at sight of the flowers, and weep (as only such
+can) when the deep hidden springs are touched, and memory recalls
+days of childhood's innocence, long, long past; lessons in that
+village Sabbath-school of the holy God; the story of the Son of His
+love dying in die stead of guilty sinners, to raise them to the
+bright, pure land above, where is no sin, no curse, no sorrow, but
+cloudless day and endless rest and joy; and the spotless flowers seem
+to beckon them onwards and upwards, to seek and find the way thither;
+for are not the flowers one of the first links in that chain of love
+which draws the poor, wearied, sinful heart up to God and heaven?
+
+"Ah! and would to God the country folk might hear! ay, and that the
+sounds could penetrate into the halls and castles of our land; the
+silent cry of hospitals with several hundreds of patients, and but
+rarely a flower?
+
+"'I should _so_ like a little buttercup.'
+
+"And the weary murmur of gladness that steals through the wards when
+a chance bouquet is brought in; and the heartfelt blessings from many
+dying lips on the flower-gatherers.
+
+"'Tell them we may never meet on earth, but we shall thank them in
+heaven.'
+
+"Oh! could the veil be lifted for a brief moment and the dull ears
+quickened to catch the pleading accents of the blessed lord? '_Do it
+unto Me_'? none would longer count their flowers and fruit their
+own, the Royal seal would be seen on each, whether growing wild in
+copses, or carefully nurtured in hothouse and conservatory, and these
+treasures would be poured out for those so sadly needing them, 'For
+Jesus' sake!'"
+
+
+THE BIBLE FLOWER MISSION.
+
+It is needless to say that the appeal thus made has been answered by
+thousands of loving hearts. The work at the Home of Industry is thus
+carried on:--Twice in the week one of the spacious floors is devoted
+to receiving these fragrant treasures, and dear friends from a
+distance come, some of them many miles, and spend one or two hours in
+arranging them, and attaching to each little cluster an ornamented
+card with some message of redeeming love. By twelve o'clock the
+baskets are generally filled, and all assemble to hear, either from
+Miss Macpherson or some other tried servant of the Lord, words of
+counsel and cheer; and then to seek wisdom for the labourers, and to
+spread before the Lord the spiritual needs of those to whom they are
+going,--many cases continually occurring for whom the comfort of
+earnest united prayer is felt.
+
+When the lovely burdens are carried forth, it is hard for the
+bearers to resist the entreaties from many a doorstep for "one
+flower, one single flower." Of the thankfulness with which they are
+received when they reach their destination, we might tell countless
+instances, and of conversions through the messages they bring we
+believe not a few. Indeed who can say where the blessing ends? for
+those who have found a blessing themselves will not keep the cards
+under their pillow, but have sent them to soldier sons in India and
+China, and to sailors afar off upon the sea.
+
+The following lines were written by a poor woman, aged 70, in the
+Mile-end Union:--
+
+
+  "Many an eye with the film of death,
+  With fading pulse, and bating breath,
+  Have cast a look on those things so bright;
+  And perchance a prayer with electric light,
+  Has passed through the brain with magic power,
+  Brought to the heart by a beautiful flower.
+  Beautiful thought to bring to the sad,
+  Sweet bright things to make them glad."
+
+
+Of the numbers of labourers and abundance of texts and flowers
+required, some idea may be formed when it is mentioned that thirteen
+Hospitals, four Unions, some containing over 1000 inmates, and one
+Lunatic Asylum, are provided for from the Home of Industry. Nor is
+this all. The secretary supplies Bible women and city missionaries
+with flowers for solitary sick ones at home, and receives constant
+appeals from various, missions for these bright messengers of God's
+love.
+
+Who can read the following without praise to the Giver of every good
+and perfect gift? Those who knew the condition of Spain had earnestly
+prayed for evangelists for that dark land. One (Senor Previ) was
+raised up through the instrumentality of the Bible Flower Mission,
+and the following extract, from the report of a workers' meeting, as
+given in the "Christian," tells of his conversion, and the way in
+which the Lord led a fellow-labourer to join him in this almost
+untrodden path.
+
+"He came from Malaga in the summer of 1875 to the Ophthalmic
+Hospital, Moorfields, for treatment. One afternoon, two ladies
+belonging to the 'Bible Flower Mission' at the Home of Industry,
+brought flowers and texts to give to the patients. One of the
+visitors was about to offer a bouquet to the Spaniard, Senor Previ,
+when the nurse remarked, 'It's of no use giving him a text, for he is
+a Roman Catholic, and besides he can't speak a word of English.'
+'Never mind,' was the reply, 'I will offer him a bunch of flowers,
+and then see what I can do.' But what about a text? Surely it was the
+Lord's doing that for the _first_ time she had brought one
+written in French; and it was indeed appropriate? 'There is one God,
+and one Mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.' After
+pointing him to the Great High Priest, she asked if he would accept a
+Spanish Bible. This he refused to do, saying, 'No, I cannot, for it
+is a bad, forbidden book; besides, I shall leave the hospital to-morrow
+morning.' 'Nevertheless, I will send you a copy,' was the answer. With
+great difficulty the lady procured a second-hand Spanish Bible, and
+sent it off just in time for him to take away.
+
+"Senor Previ then told us how, after studying that Bible for several
+months, the eyes of his soul were opened to see Jesus as the
+'_one_ Mediator.' Thus was fulfilled that promise so precious to
+all seed-sowers? 'My Word shall not return unto Me void.'
+
+"Soon afterwards he entered Mr. Guinness's College, employing his
+free time in distributing Gospels, &c., on board foreign ships, and
+assisting every Sunday at the services in the Spanish Chapel, thus
+gaining experience for future work in the vineyard. He spoke most
+warmly of the kindness of Miss Macpherson, and the happy hours spent
+in the 'dear Home of Industry,' where, at a previous workers'
+meeting, the ardent desire had first been kindled in his heart to
+tell the good news of Jesus, the 'one Mediator,' to his own
+countrymen. For some time he prayed earnestly that the Lord would
+raise up a friend to go with him. This petition has been fully
+answered.
+
+"Mr. Lund then rose, and told us that whence, student in Stockholm
+the desire to work in Spain had been laid on his heart for nearly
+four years. He studied the language, but, seeing no opening, was on
+the point of starting for America, when he received a letter from Mr.
+Guinness which entirely altered his plans. He came to London, and on
+meeting Senor Previ, offered to accompany him to Spain. The two
+brethren earnestly requested the prayers of the meeting for their new
+and difficult work."
+
+The prayers here offered were more than answered. The first labourer
+has fallen in the field, but others have filled the ranks, and the
+light kindled in a dark place is now shining brightly.
+
+Miss Macpherson's own words here follow:--
+
+"What is the cry from all ends of the earth? For men and women to
+witness of a Saviour's love by His death and resurrection. And we are
+not only to pray the Lord to send forth labourers into the fields
+that are white, but to look at the things we oft call our own as
+belonging to another. There are hundreds of young men and women who
+have been brought to the truth, and whose souls long to be free for
+Christ's service, but they need a helping hand in little things.
+
+"Let us pray that, from this mission, there may be many results such
+as the following letter shows. Six years ago the writer was the
+first-fruits after a winter's labour in the Bedford Institute,
+Spitalfields--a wild, musical Shoreditch youth. We offered to teach him
+to write. The Lord changed him, and he has ever since been a consistent
+Christian. He has been the means of leading his mother to the
+Saviour. He went to Canada, earning sufficient money to place himself
+this winter at Oberlin College. I was asked if I knew of one suited
+to become an artizan-missionary among the tribe of the Basutos. His
+reply encourages our faith that many more, led thus simply on, may
+soon go forth as working missionaries, after the pattern of St Paul,
+reaching souls by their simple, holy life, as well as by their
+preaching."
+
+
+"OBERLIN COLLEGE, OHIO, _March_ 25, 1873.
+
+"My DEAR MOTHER IN THE LORD,--Your welcome letter to hand on the
+22nd, and the book on the Basutos on the 24th. My soul doth bless the
+Lord for all that He hath done for me. My soul was filled with praise
+when I read your proposition to go to Africa. I had been bound in
+spirit for you, as you for me, and I had been asking the Lord for
+many days that He would incline you to write to me.
+
+"Previous to receiving the same, I had cast myself upon the Lord
+more than ever. I could not see my way to run in debt, and I was
+wondering whether I should go and work on the road; but I had a
+burning desire to labour most of all for Christ, and I was longing to
+go South, or somewhere to tell the heathen of Jesus. But when I
+received your letter, I took it as an answer to prayer from the Lord,
+and I could hardly finish reading it before I was telling my landlady
+to rejoice with me. How blessed to trace the hand of the Lord in
+this! I have learned by this to praise the Lord for what He has done,
+and it has enabled my soul to trust Him for what He has promised.
+
+"Believing this call is of God, and after much prayer, I have laid
+myself, all that I am or hope to be, upon the altar, for Africa, to
+labour to lead souls to the Lamb of God, to the blessed Lord Jesus. I
+expect to be consumed by the power of the Holy Ghost, to be fitted
+through Him for the work I am called to, to be used as the ram's
+horn, to be spoken through, to lead souls to Jesus, not to receive
+the praise of men, but of God.
+
+"And I feel led to say, if it is for anything save for the glory of
+God that I accept this call, to be used to the salvation of souls,
+may the Lord take me home to Himself on sea or on land, that I see
+you not in the flesh but in glory.
+
+"I have written this in prayer before God to you, and this is my
+burning desire, to be used of God. I do pray the Lord to keep me, and
+put down all vain-glorying thoughts, which will naturally rise at
+such a point as this, and He is doing it. I want to see Jesus more,
+the value of precious souls, and all the realities I profess.
+
+"I have read 'The Rides in the Mission Field of South Africa.' I was
+much interested, and I had a longing to go, but I could see no place
+for such a hope; I hare lent it to others here to read.
+
+"I am reading 'The Basutos,' and I enjoy it; I am reading in prayer
+that the Lord will show me what things would be necessary to take. I
+shall speak on this point presently.
+
+"I had a letter lately from some of my old neighbours in Muskoka,
+telling me of the conversion of a young man I had often spoken to and
+prayed for. I rejoice that my mother has given me up joyfully for
+Africa, and I am so glad she continues bright in the Lord. I am
+praying that I may have the privilege of seeing them all brought to
+Christ, before I leave for Africa, I cease not to pray for you.--Your
+son in the faith, G. C."
+
+Interest in the Basuto tribe could not but be deepened from the
+touching incident that in February of this year a feast for the
+little matchbox-makers was provided from the contributions of Basuto
+children,--those who had been blessed through the Lord's long-tried
+labourers, Mr. and Mrs. Dyke. How little could any one then
+anticipate the deep waters through which those servants of the Lord
+have since been called to pass.
+
+The workers' meetings at the Home of Industry are often a time of
+mingled joy and sorrow. It is not alone the little emigrants for
+Canada who are sent forth, but many a brother and sister in the Lord,
+leaving home and kindred for His dear name's sake, have here been
+commended with tearful prayers to His gracious keeping. The workers'
+meeting in July this year was a season of peculiar interest, as
+George Clarke, the first-fruits of the work, was present on the eve
+of his departure for China. The way had not been made open for him to
+join the mission in South Africa, as he had desired, and since his
+departure at this time for China, he has laboured in connection with
+the China Inland Mission, not once revisiting his native land.
+
+A few incidents in home work are here recorded:--
+
+"Having asked the Lord to send those He would have rescued for Him,
+no less than _five_ children came to the Refuge last Wednesday.
+Their touching histories need no comment.
+
+"A struggling mother desires a start in life for her boy of ten,
+whose stepfather subjects him to ill-treatment. The lady interested
+in him (for the woman attends her mothers' meeting) writes: 'William
+would be saved from destruction, to which he is fast hastening from
+unkind treatment.'
+
+"Arthur's story is summed up in his own words: 'I saw my father kill
+my mother; he stamped on her when he was drunk, and killed her, and I
+cried out.' Then, turning to his new friend and protectress, the
+little fellow went on: 'But when I get a big man I'll work for you,
+and pay you back for taking care of me when I was a little boy.'
+
+"The next group, clad in deep mourning, is brought by a professional
+opera singer: a babe in arms, a boy and girl aged two and four,
+evidently born in a much higher sphere--pretty, refined children. At
+their mother's death this young woman took charge of them, their
+father having promised to pay 1 pound a week for their support;--an
+empty promise it proved, for the '_gentleman_' absconded, heavily
+in debt to many others. The children's friend can no longer afford
+to keep them, though she seems tenderly attached to them, and will not
+part with the baby as long as she can maintain it. The only way open
+to her was to let the children wander on the street, on the chance of
+their being taken up by the police and put in the workhouse, at the
+same time risking her own imprisonment if discovered. Mercifully she
+heard of the Refuge, and came to beg a home for these deserted lambs.
+
+"A widowed mother, whose failing eyesight prevents her sewing, and
+whose earnings by charing cannot support herself and four children,
+heard Miss Macpherson speak at the Moorgate Street Hall Noon
+Prayer-Meeting, and was led to bring little Alice to her, pleading for
+Christian care. Amid many tears she tells of the wayward wilfulness of
+the elder girl, out at all hours of day and night, and whose pernicious
+example is too likely to ruin the little sisters."
+
+Could such cases be sent away, or a deaf ear turned to the cry of
+these "young children asking bread, and no man giving it them?" (Lam.
+iv. 4.)
+
+Miss Macpherson also writes:--"Many of those, once the little match-box
+makers, are now Christian girls taking our counsel and going as
+servants into Christian families.
+
+"Thus our child-loving hearts cannot refuse to rescue the sorrowful
+children that come to us to escape the atrocities of the almost
+unacknowledged bloodless war that goes on in our midst. Most of the
+fifty rescues now under our care are here through the slain upon the
+battle-field of drink, shaven heads telling the tale of neglect. The
+last two motherless little girls sent to us were turned out by their
+drunken stepfather.
+
+"The leader of our class for mothers and widows says that it is
+almost impossible to visit them, their unmurmuring sufferings are so
+touching. In many of their little garrets almost everything is sold.
+And these are the saints of the Lord--those who will very soon go in
+to the King more than conquerors. Yes, these are they from whom we
+learn our best lessons of trust and patience, how to deal with
+sceptics, and how to go down and share our crust with a suffering
+sister."
+
+"Oh, friends, listen to a mother's sad words. 'Some days nothing all
+day. A little relief comes with the parish allowance; but many a
+morning those hungry voices ask? _Mother, is this the day for
+bread?_' Hear in fancy your loved and cherished little ones asking
+this, and you will feel for that mother's heart. She recalls one day
+that she left them crying for bread; but she left _One_ with
+them, the children's Friend. _He_ quieted them; and when after
+two hours the mother returned, she found them sleeping. 'But, oh,'
+she said, 'that sight just broke-my heart, so starved they looked--even
+the baby in Lizzie's arms--all just like little skeletons! I
+couldn't help it; I just sat down and wept.' Only with tears could we
+hear such a tale. No other response would come as we took in the
+picture; and it did not mend our sorrow when she added, 'There were
+thousands such as these.'" Oh, the _intense_ longing that her
+voice could reach to those drawing-rooms yonder! Will not the echo of
+it, coming in this form, cause some, not in imagination merely, but
+in reality, to "come and see?" Climb the dark stair, and hear for
+yourself these melting stories, which will fill your heart with pity,
+and not leave you wondering what will interest next. What a
+privilege, yea, high honour, it is to be allowed to take messages for
+Jesus! It was stated lately in a crowded gathering of six thousand,
+as the misery of the poor was dwelt on, that if God were to ask the
+angels in heaven if any were willing to spend fifty or a hundred
+years down here to befriend some? little shoeless, homeless boy, for
+whom no Christian was caring, to tell him of Jesus, and lead him to
+heaven, 'why, in three minutes,' were the burning words, 'I don't
+believe there'd be an angel left within the pearly gates.'"
+
+"My Father worketh hitherto, and I work." That which is called the
+day of rest, is at the Home of Industry one of varied and incessant
+labour; one day may serve as a specimen. Before the usual hour for
+morning service, two of the lady-workers start for the Fenchurch
+Street Station, to hold a Bible-class with the railway porters;
+others at the same time leave for Bird Fair. Bird Fair would he a sad
+sight to witness on any day in any place, how humiliating it is to
+behold on that which is called the Lord's Day in a so-called
+Christian land. Here, from eleven till one, dog-stealers parade their
+ill-gotten prey, and crowds through which it is scarcely possible to
+make one's way, are occupied in gambling and betting on them, and on
+the beautiful pigeons here made such an instrument of sin. The
+character of the neighbourhood may be, known from the appeal made by
+two poor boys who came on a week day to ask shelter from a blind,
+Christian woman. They were locked out of their own home (a bird and
+rabbit shop), for their parents were both out drinking, and they
+said, "Father and mother keep sober only on Sundays, because there is
+more business to be done." There, amid many interruptions, the Gospel
+is preached to those who would never hear it elsewhere. The preaching
+station on this occasion was in a railway-arch, here the harmonium
+was placed, and two brethren, who came purposely from a distance,
+gave the help so much needed; for the strain is great on head, heart,
+and voice. In the afternoon the spacious floor, well known to many
+who attend the workers' meetings, is filled by adult classes of
+women. At the close an address is given, often by a returned
+missionary, and many among these very poor of the flock bring their
+offerings, scanty in themselves, but surely much prized in the sight
+of Him whose love has constrained them; twice over has a precious
+offering been given to me for the Punrooty Mission--once from the
+adult classes, and again from the younger Sunday scholars. The adult
+Sunday-school numbers more than 160 members. A class of working men
+is held below. The tea hour is one of peculiar interest. Many young
+men who are engaged in business in the week, and give this day of
+rest to the business of their King, meet here after having spent the
+afternoon teaching in various schools. During this meal letters are
+read from far-off lands, often written by those who had formerly met
+here, and who have gone from this training to dark places of the
+earth. Many subjects for prayer are thus brought forward and
+remembered before the Lord; then the building is again filled to
+overflowing. An infant class of ninety in one room on the ground
+floor--when these disperse a Gospel meeting is held in this room,--a
+class of factory girls in another, while above crowds of children
+press. But there is much outside work besides, to occupy every
+helper. Lodging-houses in the thieves' quarters are visited, and
+services held, and many hundreds are thus reached; and after nine
+P.M., when the labourers return from their varied spheres, all join
+once more in praise and prayer, and many walk a long mile and more to
+reach their own homes, none using any vehicle or train oh the Lord's
+day.
+
+It is impossible to follow every detail in this continually
+increasing work, and only brief mention can be made of the goodness
+of the Lord in having once more preserved the lives of dear ones in
+Canada, when, in 1875, the Home at Belleville was again destroyed by
+fire, and again Canadian kindness and hospitality were manifested to
+the utmost. Each summer's sun had shone upon band after band of young
+emigrants guided safely across the ocean, through the goodness and
+mercy of Him, "Who carries the lambs in His bosom," and "Who holdeth
+the waters in the hollow of His hand." In the labour of watching over
+these little ones on the voyage, as in every other, the Lord raised
+up helpers like-minded with those who bore the burden of the work. In
+May, 1876, the twenty-second party sailed under the care of Mr. Merry
+and Miss Macpherson, and the following extracts are from her diary:--
+
+"Friday, May 5.--Calm seas, children bright and happy, cloudless
+skies, weather charming and exhilarating, though cold. Morning spent
+over our Bibles. Time seemed to fly rapidly while we talked of 'the
+things concerning the King.' In the afternoon the bracing air and
+bright skies invited vigorous exercise, and our Birmingham friend and
+I walked between two and three miles. Faith was our theme of
+converse. May the result be that we both shall trust our God more
+than heretofore, for ourselves and our work, and realise increased
+measure. (Phil. iv. 19) 'My God shall supply all your need.'
+
+"Our children being on deck, we joined them in their games, and then
+assembled our large family in their separate steerages; and standing
+in the doorway between, I was enabled to address them and the
+helpers--140 in all. Their evening hymn attracted the sailors, and this
+gave a double gathering on mid-decks. Our portion was Luke x. 38-42,
+'The one thing needful.' _Jesus_ the need of each one, ere leaving
+us. A saddened look fell over every little face, as we referred to
+parting, while many beamed with joy, as we talked of the meeting by
+and bye. We closed by singing 'Around the throne of God in heaven.'
+During this hour Mr. Merry held a solemn meeting among the sailors in
+the forecastle. May the Lord Jesus scatter His saints to the four
+quarters of the globe, that His glory may be increased. If those who
+cannot go would only meet weekly, in twos and threes, and pray for
+the foreign fields of perishing millions, surely we should see
+greater results.
+
+"This day ended in one of the most lovely of moonlight nights, and
+as we walked on deck we were ever and anon led to praise God and
+admire the beauties of His hand. Venus was resplendent; very large
+and full of soft lustrous beauty, while an aurora shed some lovely
+tinges of colour across the sky. Our little group turned once more
+towards the chart room, and sang a hymn of praise to 'Him who hath
+loved us.'
+
+
+  "'If so much loveliness is sent
+  To grace our earthly home,
+  How beautiful, how beautiful
+  Must be the world to come!'
+
+
+"Saturday, May 6.--At early dawn we were awakened from a long
+brain-refreshing sleep by one of the officers gently tapping at our
+door, and in a whisper saying, 'A glorious sunrise.' We were soon with
+him on the bridge, filled with admiration as we gazed upon the scene
+before us. The sun appeared rising from the ocean, its golden rays
+shedding a dazzling brilliance on all around. While we watched, the
+scene changed, and a misty veil beclouded the whole horizon, hiding
+from our view that which had been so lovely.
+
+"After going down to an early cup of tea we sang our morning hymn of
+praise, and had a season of prayer; a very hallowed opportunity it
+was, one which brought us again to feel our deep need of grace, to
+live one more day to His praise and glory.
+
+"About noon we bad another of those never-ending changes which are
+to be met with on this great ocean; the sun came out bright and warm,
+the sky became brilliantly blue, and the sea was one sheet of ice
+fields as far as the eye could reach.
+
+"Our noble Scotch ironclad rode on her way majestically, leaving a
+pathway in the frozen fields to be seen for miles behind, and as she
+struck her boom upon the massive sheets of ice, they seemed to
+vibrate and cause a movement in huge sheets on before and on either
+side. Some magnificent pieces, when touched by the ironclad's power,
+shiver into thousands of fragments, others pass our vessel's side,
+hard as iron, to be wafted on to the Gulf Stream, there to come under
+a warmer influence. This Arctic scene causes our captain and his
+officers to look rather serious, and they mount at times to the
+fore-topgallant mast. Did we but know the dangers which beset us
+through yielding to the allurements of the world, how often would we
+also mount aloft, and get upon, our watch-tower and look out!
+
+"You will naturally ask, How far did the ice reach? We were fourteen
+hours cutting through it, passing sixty vessels and two steamers
+(many of them fixtures), signalling those we came near. It was
+touching to see a barque make efforts to get into our opened-up
+pathway, but she could not make the short distance to reach the
+cleared waters. Those who watched throughout that long day as we
+triumphantly, though slowly, broke our ice-girt way, saw seals
+between the fields of ice, porpoises and whales spouting and bounding
+in their glorious freedom, sea-gulls and small red birds flying about.
+
+"Our little fellows were constructing allegories after the fashion
+of their last course of lessons on Banyan's 'Pilgrim's Progress.' The
+ice field, they said, was like Satan, and the ship was like
+Christian; and thus they went on, as they sat looking over the
+bulwarks at the ice which so hindered our progress. There is not a
+child who has not had his constitution braced by this most favourable
+voyage. To-day we passed a steamer in the ice, which had started a
+week ahead of us from Glasgow. How we realised at this time the
+comfort and rest of having a captain and officers who were men of
+prayer.
+
+"The gun was now fired to tell the dwellers at Metis to telegraph
+the glad news to you that we were safe in sight of land, though there
+are still Amaleks to be overcome,--narrow straits lined with
+mountains full of minerals, which are a magnetic attraction to our
+ironclads, and more ships have been lost here than anywhere else;
+fogs which come and go, ever keeping the sailor as he nears the shore
+in anxious trepidation; and shallows that require skill in sounding.
+
+"Sunday, May 7.--A cloudy day, after a week of unspeakable
+loving-kindness and tender mercy. We could by faith hear His own voice
+within, saying 'My peace I give unto you.' Our children all day were
+most obedient, and kind and loving to each other. We spent the
+morning together, the last of the kind until we meet on that morning
+that hath no clouds. Ere commencing our lesson, we asked a sailor to
+lift the hatchway wide open. This gave the suggestion for the
+subject, 'The Man with the Palsy,' which was easily understood by
+supposing the sailors with cords to let one more little boy down into
+our midst.
+
+"The pilot met us at Father Point about 4 P.M., bringing a telegram
+of welcome from one of our dear Canadian friends, also a verse from
+Philemon. Thus we feel assured loving hearts are prayerfully awaiting
+us on the shores we are nearing, a sweet symbol of the better land
+and the loved ones on before.
+
+"Monday, May 8.--Mr. Merry was astir before five o'clock, and
+awaking the young helpers. Soon they were in the steerage among the
+children; commenced packing of blankets, &c., as we were expecting to
+make the port soon after breakfast In this, however, we were
+disappointed, as in Travers's Strait the Mineral Mountains attracted
+the compass, and a dense fog hiding all headlands retarded our
+progress, making it necessary to lower one of the boats to take the
+soundings, and go before the great 'Sardinian,' showing her how to
+shape her course in the narrow way. A sweet reminder this to us that
+our Lord was so condescending as to use the possessions of a little
+lad when He needed the two small fishes. And we take encouragement
+that many of our little ones are going on before, preparing the way
+in many a district by their sweet hymns telling of the 'wondrous
+story,' for the devoted evangelists who are being raised up in Canada
+to follow with deeper revealings of the blessed Bible, winning
+precious souls 'till He come.'
+
+
+  "'I am coming! Are you working?
+    Short your serving time will be;
+  Are your talents idle lying?
+    Are you using them for me?'
+
+
+"Such is the effect of fog at sea, that we are told it may be 6 P.M.
+ere we arrive, and judging from all appearances, great caution is
+required in the Gulf at this time of year. At 11 A.M. we had a sweet
+season of thanksgiving for the many mercies received. At twelve
+o'clock the fog lifted, and the engine went on with its accustomed
+vigour. At 5 P.M. we neared the shore, and there stood a group of
+more than a dozen young ladies, waving a welcome. Soon they were on
+deck, and saluted us and our children, telling us they had borne us
+up in prayer before the Lord. After uniting with them in praise for
+the unspeakable mercies by the way, we bade farewell to passengers,
+officers, and crew, and sliding down the long gangway from the I
+bulwarks, felt our feet once more on _terra firma._ Shaking our
+captain's hand with a grateful heart for all his kindness to us and
+ours, in a few minutes steam was up, and the 'Sardinian' on her way
+to Montreal.
+
+"We then went to see the little ones having tea in an adjoining
+hall, while Mr. Merry was very busy among the agents and luggage. It
+being announced that the Quebec boat was ready to cross the river, we
+had to part with our young friends, who told us they should all take
+a deeper interest than ever in us now they had seen the bright faces
+Of our children. Front love to Jesus, they had met during the past
+winter to make clothing, and presented me with a large case to take
+on.
+
+"After sending our telegrams to each Home, we found the first-class
+cars ready for our children, so we put every one at full length, and
+soon all were soundly asleep, and we went on hour after hour.
+
+"Tuesday, May 9.--We arrived at Montreal at ten o'clock, where a
+most comfortable breakfast was awaiting us, with nice washing
+accommodation. Here we had the pleasure of meeting the Secretary of
+the Emigration Department of Ottawa, who kindly gave us some sound
+counsel on many points bearing upon our work of emigration.
+
+"At eleven o'clock we heard the summons, 'All aboard!' and were soon
+again on our way. We dined at Prescott, and then still westward we
+travelled until midnight.
+
+"All was mercy. For Sidney, our little delicate child, we feared the
+cold night-air would be too much, so the cry went upwards for
+guidance with regard to this precious orphan, whose story was so
+touching. A Christian widow had sheltered his mother from the streets
+when the child was but two weeks old, and had kept him for five
+years, but now, her failing eyesight rendering her unable to support
+him, with a breaking heart she gave him up to us. All my desire now
+our journey was ending was to keep from making one special
+attachment, yet his delicacy drew us all more than ever to him.
+
+"Owing to a telegram not having been delivered, about midnight one
+of the trying incidents of this part of our journey unexpectedly
+occurred. On arriving at Belleville, after awaking our sleeping
+family, we found neither friend nor conveyance awaiting us. Mr. Merry
+walked the mile to the Home, and soon our waggon was ready to take
+back a few of the most exhausted ones, whilst our car was shunted to
+a siding for the night.
+
+"Wednesday, May 10.--Ere seven o'clock, by help of a large omnibus,
+we were conveyed to the new Belleville Home, where we met with a warm
+welcome. It was a day of reunion with loved fellow-workers, talking
+of the way the Lord had led us, and the trials and joys of the past
+year. Twelve months ago, I left this Home a mass of ruins and burnt
+embers; now a new and more efficient one for the purpose is erected
+on the same spot My beloved friend Miss Bilbrough has indeed had many
+a burden to bear, but her testimony to the Lord's faithfulness is
+greater than ever. Her heart is more and more devoted to the
+children, and to carrying forward the work in all its never-ceasing
+details.
+
+"After a few hours' sleep, it was so very interesting to walk over
+our new and conveniently arranged Home. Truly our hearts were filled
+with praise as we knelt together to thank the Lord. Towards the
+afternoon I was introduced to a young man who was working as
+gardener. We had brought him out from England in 1870, and he has
+ever since given great satisfaction to his employers, has paid back
+his passage-money, joined the Church, and not long since was married
+to his late master's daughter.
+
+"In the evening we walked into town, and met with 'Daniel's Band,'
+which is composed of seventeen Christian young men, who are uniting
+in prayer and work for the souls of their fellow-townsmen; and
+through their instrumentality many conversions have taken place, and
+the churches have been stirred up to greater activity. Mr. Merry gave
+a clear Gospel address, and another meeting being asked for, a
+Bible-reading was arranged for the following evening. Thus we had the
+privilege of witnessing for our blessed Master to about 200, and
+cheering the hearts of 'Daniel's Band.'
+
+"Thursday, May 11.--Occupied the day writing English letters and
+receiving friends. Also went to see an aged saint, who had from our
+first visit to these shores been a helper by her prayers.
+
+"Friday, May 12.--Left Belleville for Galt soon after 6 A.M., taking
+with us thirty-eight children, and travelling by rail along the
+shores of Lake Ontario. The morning hours passed quickly _en
+route_, and as we neared Toronto, towns and villages became more
+frequent and more attractive. At Berlin an unexpected kindness was
+shown us. Orders had been given to send us on by special train, so
+that no delay was experienced in travelling the remaining fourteen
+miles of our journey. Those who have travelled 3000 miles with a
+number of children can understand how this was appreciated by us,
+when every nerve was strained, and nature was yearning for a long
+sleep free from the shaking of the railway.
+
+"At 5 P.M., on the seventeenth day after leaving London, we reached
+the end of our journey, and found our farmer-nephew, with his team,
+awaiting our arrival. Soon we were on the hill, looking at the little
+Home beyond. As we approached the gates the shout of welcome from
+more than a score of young voices greeted us, and on the verandah we
+were received by our loved niece, and the dear friends who have been
+assisting her in the absence of her parents. The strain of travel now
+being over, we were able to enjoy a few hours' rest, our hearts full
+of gratitude for the many mercies which had encompassed us all our
+journey through.
+
+
+  "'How good is the God we adore,
+    Our faithful, unchangeable Friend
+  Whose love is as great as His power,
+    And knows neither measure nor end.'"
+
+
+During the winter, individual visitation of the children had been
+most effectually accomplished by the four Inspectors appointed by the
+Canadian Government, the result of which proved to be most favourable
+to the plan of placing the "Solitary in families." After two days
+rest at Galt, Miss Macpherson started on the same loved work, and met
+with the usual cheering results.
+
+On her return home Miss Macpherson thus writes:--
+
+"_July 20._
+
+"In the providence of our covenant-keeping God, and Father of the
+fatherless, we have been again permitted in peace to return from
+another visit to the adopted homes of our little ones. To His praise,
+who is the Answerer of prayer, we record that 100,000 miles have been
+travelled in connection with these special charges in the past six
+years, and no storm or accident has been permitted to alarm, no death
+requiring the remains to be committed to the great deep.
+
+"During the past year the Dominion Government chose four of their
+oldest officials to visit all our children, (as their Blue-book
+records), 'deeming that from their experience they would be best
+enabled to judge of the condition, position, and prospects of the
+children in their situations.' The Government are satisfied (as
+parents of the State), that our children 'are very carefully placed,'
+bringing out the fact that, ninety-eight out of every 100 are doing
+well." Miss Macpherson adds:--
+
+"A letter will often show the progress of an industrious young man,
+and being asked for details, I give the following from a handful of
+similar encouraging testimonials:--
+
+"MAGNETAWAN, DISTRICT PARRY SOUND, ONTARIO.
+
+"DEAR MISS MACPHERSON,--This is from William Miller--one that came
+cut under your care three years ago last June. I worked in the town
+of Galt as a substitute three months, for a man while he went home to
+his friends in Scotland. After that I went to live in Pelham, in the
+county of Welland, a situation that Miss Reavell directed me to, and
+there stayed three years, and saved a little money; and now I have
+moved to Parry Sound, to the address which you will find at the end
+of this note. Dear friend, I desire to hear of your welfare in the
+work that God has put in your hands to do,--in bringing out the
+destitute ones from England into a land of plenty, and where they can
+be well cared for. I have seen many of them around the country where
+I have been, almost all looking well, and enjoying themselves much.
+
+"I now live in the township of Croft. I have 186 acres of land, on
+the banks of Doe Lake. I think if I had stayed in England I should
+not have had as many feet. I like England very well, but it is a hard
+place for the poor. I took 100 acres of this land as free grant, and
+the rest I bought. It is two miles and a half from the village. There
+are two stores, post-office, and sawmill; I think a flour-mill will
+be built this summer. Magnetawan River runs through the village.
+There are two waterfalls for mill purposes in the village. A day
+school will commence in the summer, and there is also a church and
+Sunday-school, to which I go. In the winter it is not held, because
+the roads are so bad, but when the country gets open more the roads
+will be better.
+
+"I humbly thank God for guiding and keeping me in good health, and
+under the banner of Christ, and I trust walking in His ways, and hope
+to remain so unto death, and then live with Him above, there to part
+no more.
+
+"My brother is living here also; he has 200 acres of land. Remember
+me to all the workers at the Home, praying that we may all, as
+Christians, work for the Lord of glory, and at last meet together to
+praise Him. 'Wait on the Lord.'
+
+"I remain, yours truly in Christ, W. MILLER."
+
+Those who have been helped, help their kindred in after years. The
+following is an instance:--
+
+"DOUGLAS, _June_ 29, 1876.
+
+"DEAR Miss MACPHERSON,--I have been here four years in August, I
+will be four years with my master in October. I like this country
+well; the crops are growing well, and there is prospect of a good
+harvest. Dear ma'am, I have a little brother nearly ten years old,
+and he is living with my mother; he wants to come to this country,
+and mother is willing he should, and I think I have enough to pay his
+passage out; and if it pleased you, would you take him into your
+Home, and send him out with your boys. Please would you send him to
+the Belleville Home, as we would then be able to get him, because the
+man that my brother is with says he would not object to taking him.
+Please would you let me know how much it would take to pay for
+sending him to Belleville, and where would I send the money to.
+
+"I am able to plough now, and milk cows, chop wood, reap grain, and
+mow hay. I am raising fifty young apple-trees of the Spitenberg kind.
+I am going to be a farmer myself some day; it is very nice and
+healthy work. I get a good many rides on horseback. I have a lamb of
+my own; my master gave it me when it was a small, little lamb, but
+now it has grown into a good-sized sheep. The Premier of the Dominion
+was at this village, and I heard him speak. We will soon begin to cut
+our hay; we have a mowing-machine, so that it does not take long to
+cut our hay. There is a Sunday-school three miles away from us, quite
+near where my brother lives; it has sixty scholars, and I go to it
+every Sunday, but the preaching is only once a fortnight. In our
+Sunday-school we sing about the same hymns we used to sing when
+in the Refuge, and there is three of us 'Home' boys go to that
+Sunday-school. We have seven head of horn-cattle, five horses, ten
+sheep, and six lambs, thirty-six hens, forty-four hen chickens, two
+geese, and nine goslings, two pigs, and one calf, so I will say
+good-bye for the present.--I remain, yours sincerely,
+
+JOHN HENEY MITCHELL.
+
+"P.S.--Give my love to all the boys, and accept the same from me,
+J. M."
+
+
+The following incidents are told by Miss Macpherson:--
+
+"Miss Bilbrough often goes off with half-a-dozen to see them placed
+in their new home. Whilst on one of these journeys, the little ones
+were attracting the notice of fellow-travellers, as some forty to
+fifty are generally in a compartment. From amongst these Miss
+Bilbrough is accosted by a young gentleman, who lifts his hat to her,
+and sits down by her side. This was one of our first party, now a
+young solicitor, just about to pass his last examination. He was on
+the important business of going to some place in the backwoods to
+value a farm for the firm by whom he was employed.
+
+"Another young man, one of our second band in 1870, is now visiting
+his friends in England for a month, ere beginning his career as a
+lawyer in Canada; and more than this, he is, we rejoice to say, a
+consistent Christian of several years' standing. Now, when we want a
+lawyer's counsel, our young friend is glad to give it us, and already
+has done us good service. Sweet thank-offerings!
+
+"My past birthday in June was spent in taking two little fellows to
+their homes. After travelling nearly one hundred miles, as we neared
+our destination very tired, we wondered to ourselves whether it would
+be in a log hut, farmhouse, or mansion we should find a welcome with
+our little charges. It proved to be the last.
+
+"The Lord had put it into the heart of a young married lady to rear
+an orphan boy, and thus fulfil a long-cherished idea. She had also
+induced another Christian lady to do the same. It was a sweet reward
+to His wearied servant, to know that two orphans would be so well
+cared for."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII
+
+1877-1879.
+
+"They helped every one his neighbour"--Miss Child, a fellow-labourer
+--The work in Ratcliff Highway--Strangers' Rest for Sailors--"Welcome
+Home"--"Bridge of Hope"--Miss Macpherson's twenty-first voyage to
+Canada--Explosion on board the "Sardinian"--Child life in the Galt
+Home--The Galt Home now devoted to children from London, Knowlton to
+those from Liverpool, and Marchmont to Scottish Emigrants.
+
+
+"They helped every one his neighbour, and every one said to his
+brother, Be of good courage" (margin, be strong). Miss Macpherson
+writes in February this year, the eighth anniversary:--
+
+"As a band, we need to '_be strong_' for any emergency. At this
+season we are surrounded by hundreds of men out of employment, and in
+want of food, who say now to us--'We have listened to your Gospel;
+we are in want; show us thy faith by thy works.' This we are
+endeavouring to do by providing for them suppers of soup and bread
+twice a week. The other evening a crowd had gathered outside the door
+at the specified hour, when only 150 could be admitted. Did we but
+know the gnawings of real hunger we should not wonder that the
+unsuccessful applicants attempted to burst in; and one poor man
+falling in the crush, broke his arm.
+
+"We need your prayers while dealing with this class for another
+month. Strong hearts quail at the sight of these hopeless looking
+men. Our evening-school three times a week, taught by ladies, we find
+to be the most successful plan of dealing with them. The being called
+by their _own names_, man by man, wakes up an interest, and
+causes the public-house life to go into the shade.
+
+"The friends of the match box-makers (our oldest love in this
+vineyard) will rejoice to hear that we gathered 300 of them straight
+from their boxes to a New Year's tea, when a kind friend helped to
+make the evening a pleasant one by exhibiting dissolving views. After
+this the gifts of clothing, &c., with which we had been supplied by
+many contributors, were distributed among them.
+
+"Last week we had a very happy evening with our Christian band, many
+of whom were the matchbox-makers of former days, now grown, into
+young women, and fellow-workers for Christ in their own homes, and in
+the courts and alleys where they dwell. Deeply interesting were their
+testimonies of answers to prayer, the power of the Word, and
+delivering grace in time of trial in the factories where they labour.
+Dear helpers by prayer, you now behold what great things the Lord
+hath wrought for us in giving us this band of young women to go forth
+on the Sunday afternoons in couples with their tracts, and reach many
+whom perhaps we might not find. Some of these are also teachers in
+our Sunday-school, sympathising with us in our East-end trials,
+teaching to others what they have learned of Jesus through their own
+experience of His great love.
+
+"The 'elder girls' of the East-end are a continual heavy burden on
+our heart; much thought and care are being bestowed in devising and
+perfecting plans for winning their young lives to the Saviour, and
+fitting them for honourable service for God and man. This great
+preventive work among those young bread-winners can only be
+successfully accomplished by those who, through studying their
+habits, temptations, and surroundings, by constant loving contact
+with them, and by special training, are able to win their confidence
+and affection."
+
+In this year a new and most important work was begun, one which has
+eminently received the blessing of "Him who is the confidence of all
+the ends of the earth, and of those who are afar off upon the sea."
+
+Miss Child, one like-minded with Miss Macpherson inter zeal for
+souls, and her longing to save them from the curse of drink; had been
+residing in the Home of Industry, and visiting public-houses in
+Ratcliff Highway. To those who have never seen the open parade of sin
+in that part, (long notorious for every evil), it is hard to
+describe the scene, where even in broad daylight the unhappy captives
+of Satan seem to glory in their shame. Miss Child's heart yearned
+over the sailors who crowd the public-houses, escaped from the perils
+of the sea only to fall into worse dangers. She longed for some means
+of helping them. Miss Macpherson appealed to him whose burning words
+in the City of London Theatre in 1861 had so stirred her own heart
+Mr. Reginald Radcliffe had lately opened a Strangers' Rest in
+Liverpool, and only longed to see the same established in every port
+in the world. In answer to the call, he came up to London and
+addressed Christian workers assembled at the Home of Industry,
+stirring them up to undertake a new form of attack on the strongholds
+of the enemy. Mr. James E. Matheson took the deepest interest in this
+work, and a house was secured in Ratcliff Highway, the appearance of
+which was made to contrast very strongly with all around. Gospel
+texts in many languages appeared in all the windows, and invitations
+to sailors to enter and write their letters, materials provided free
+of cost. This work needed many helpers. Preachers were required for
+the different nationalities. Such were found, and willing listeners,
+so that soon a larger house was necessary. Notwithstanding the many
+calls on her time and strength, Miss Macpherson was frequently to be
+found here, delighting in seeking to save among a class hitherto
+difficult to reach. Many other sisters in the Lord were, called on to
+help--some to play the harmoniums provided in each room, and lead the
+singing in varied languages--others in writing letters for those who
+could not use a pen themselves, and whose hearts were softened by
+kindness shown in this way--others in filling, bags with books and
+tracts. The blessing which has followed these cannot be reckoned;
+none can tell what these silent messengers, so often despised on
+shore, have been to sailors when read far away from home and friends.
+Many of these bags have been made by Christian invalids, and are
+followed by their prayers that the contents may ever be blessed.
+
+As yet, however, nothing had been done for the women in Katcliff
+Highway, and Miss Macpherson, when visiting that neighbourhood where
+Satan reigns so openly, longed to save some of her poor lost sisters.
+On one occasion a young woman said most piteously to her: "Why don't
+you speak to us as you do to the sailors, and we would be converted
+and be happy too?" This led to the first decided effort being made,
+and the following year a small mission room for their use alone was
+opened. Tea-meetings and Gospel addresses-were given here. Miss
+Macpherson's long-tried helper, Miss May, added this work to her many
+other burdens for the Lord, and other kind friends joined her in
+visiting and seeking out the lost.
+
+Although, in Miss May's words, "humanly speaking all things were
+against us,"--for in this neighbourhood the wages of iniquity are
+high, yet encouragement was met with, and it was felt that the
+mission room was not sufficient, but some shelter must be taken
+wherein to receive' poor applicants until they could be removed to a
+safer locality. A tiny three-roomed house was secured and opened
+with, much prayer, and has fulfilled the promise of the name given to
+it, "The Bridge of Hope." The Lord blessed Miss Macpherson in the
+choice of a helper, Miss Underdown, the brave pioneer who volunteered
+to remain here alone, ready to welcome the poor wanderer at any hour
+of the day or night. She is now working among sailors at Cape Town;
+but the Lord has proved in this instance, as in many others, that
+when His summons to a distant land is obeyed, the work at home will
+not be suffered to languish. Another devoted sister in the Lord, Miss
+Steer, has given up home ties and home comforts, counting it all joy
+to rescue those most deeply sunk in guilt and misery. The work has
+doubled and trebled in importance, more than a hundred having been
+drawn out of this whirlpool of sin and infamy, and brought under the
+sound of the Gospel within the walls of the larger Refuge, since
+opened for them. More than once we have had to praise God for the
+help given by Christian sailors; their watchful eyes have noticed in
+the "Highway" some who were evidently strangers to the haunts of
+vice, and have brought them here for safety, and even borne part of
+the expense of their journey homewards. The house originally taken
+for the Strangers' Rest having been found inadequate for the
+accommodation of the crowds who frequented it, a larger house was
+taken, but it was felt that after the many hallowed associations of
+the first house opened, where Miss Macpherson and Miss Child had
+often rejoiced with the angels of God over repenting sinners, it was
+impossible to relinquish it for ordinary uses,--it might be in that
+neighbourhood for some direct work of Satan. To Miss Macpherson's
+great joy her faithful, co-worker, Miss Child, determined on opening
+it as a Temperance Coffee House, or "Welcome Home" for the sailors,
+and thenceforth made this place her abode, and the work of God has
+never ceased.
+
+In the spring of this year Miss Macpherson had contemplated starting
+with a party for Canada, but as the time drew near she was so much
+worn out by the continued strain of "holding the fort" at
+Spitalfields for the last two years, that some of her friends almost
+feared she would be unable to take the charge. She would not suffer
+her bodily weakness to hinder her, and on May the 8th started on her
+twenty-first voyage in the "Sardinian," accompanied by her
+brother-in-law, Mr. Merry, with a party of fifty children, and two young
+men who had gone out with her in 1870, and had returned to see their
+friends, and were on their way back with her to the land of their adoption.
+So many thousand miles had been traversed by land and sea, and hitherto
+thanksgivings had gone up for preservation from even alarm of danger.
+Now a deeper thanksgiving was to be called forth, for the Lord's
+preserving care in a scene which brought all face to face with
+eternity. On the Monday before she left Miss Macpherson remarked to
+some friends, "The Word is full of _Deliverance_, both individual
+deliverance and otherwise," little dreaming how soon she would be
+called to realise this truth.
+
+The following letter, which appeared in the "Times," tells of the
+strength given in time of need:--
+
+"_May_ 14, 1878.
+
+"Captain Grills, of the Liverpool Mercantile Marine Service
+Association, going to Derry upon a pleasure trip, was upon the bridge
+of the 'Sardinian' when the accident occurred, and speaks in high
+terms of the discipline of officers and crew under the trying
+circumstances. He says:--'I was on the bridge with Captain Dutton,
+looking for the approach of the tender, when in a moment an explosion
+occurred down in the fore-hold, where a quantity of coal was stored,
+and blew into the air thousands of fragments of wood. Immediately
+afterwards people came shrieking up the companion ways, many, of them
+cut, bruised, and blackened. The scene was indescribable. A great
+deal of confusion was caused by the separation of children from
+parents and husbands from wives. One poor woman begged me to go and
+find her baby, which was torn from her arms. The Captain, on hearing
+the explosion and seeing the smoke, sprang from the bridge, ordered
+the hose to be instantly applied, and by dint of extraordinary
+exertions on the part of himself, the officers, and crew, succeeded
+in saving several people who were in the midst of the debris. The
+hold was flooded with water from the hose, but the smoke continued to
+pour out in dense volumes, and ultimately they had to abandon all
+hope of saving the ship except by opening the sluices and letting the
+water in. Before doing this the vessel was taken into five fathoms
+of water, so that when she settled down her decks would be above
+water, and she might the more easily be pumped out and raised. While
+these orders were being executed, the whole of the saloon passengers,
+assisted by many of the crew, were engaged in transferring the
+emigrants to the mail tender which had just come alongside. About 300
+or 400 soon crowded her decks, and she landed them at Moville pier,
+after which she returned for orders. Subsequently the second tender
+took off most of the saloon passengers, many wounded, and a large
+quantity of baggage. The boats were lowered in order to save the
+baggage. The mail tender returned and took the rest of the people,
+and I went with them, and we reached Derry about nine o'clock that
+night. I cannot refrain from referring to the heroic conduct of one
+lady, [Footnote: Miss Catherine Ellis of Tryon House] a saloon
+passenger, who, while partially dressed, rescued a baby that was
+fearfully burnt, at considerable risk to herself; the mother had
+proceeded to Derry, thinking she had lost her child for ever. The
+promptitude and energy displayed by Captain Button was in every way
+admirable, and his orders were executed with great decision. Miss
+Macpherson and her little band of Canadian emigrants showed no small
+amount of true fortitude and heroism. Most of the children behaved
+nobly under the trying circumstances, and exhibited much of the fruit
+of their careful training. They kept repeating to one another many of
+the sayings they had heard from Miss Macpherson about being patient,
+and brave, and good; I visited the infirmary before leaving on
+Saturday, and spoke to each of the nine patients, who are all
+suffering seriously, but I am hopeful of the recovery of some.'"
+
+Miss Macpherson's own account follows:--
+
+"Sunday morning.
+
+"Since we parted from you and those beloved Christian friends at St.
+Pancras last Wednesday, we seem to have lived years, and learnt more
+of the reality of the delivering power of our loving Father than in
+all our lives before.
+
+"Wondrous to relate, and as marvellous as the deliverance of the
+three children from the fiery furnace, is the fact that all our
+precious little ones are in safety, and now gone to a place of
+worship.
+
+"Behold the loving-kindness of our God! Had the explosion taken
+place a little while later, our vessel would have been on her way
+instead of standing still waiting off Moville for the mails.
+
+"Most of the children" were on deck, basking in the lovely sunshine
+of that afternoon. We were all busy finishing our letters, and I
+intended to write one more, and then go and spend an hour in the
+children's steerage, when presently there was a terrible sound, as of
+a cannon, followed by a deathly stillness for two minutes; I rushed
+on deck and beheld a man jet black with soot, his halt burnt off,
+issuing from a gangway near; then one of my own boys came,
+exclaiming, 'Oh, Miss! I prayed to Jesus, and He saved me.' Then the
+deck became a fearful scene of confusion, poor foreigners weeping,
+and oh! the mutilated men and women, ghastly with fright, some of
+their faces entirely skinned.
+
+"My first care was for the little ones. They clustered round me, as
+the two young men, (former boys of 1870, who had been home to see
+their friends), gathered them out of the crowd. Mr. Merry gave me the
+list, and they dried their tears, and answered to their names when
+called. We soon found all accounted for, and were hushed with praise
+Picture us all standing near the wheelhouse, awaiting orders, or to
+see, it might be flames, or another explosion of a still more serious
+character.
+
+_"Oh! could every Sunday school teacher in the land realise my
+feelings at that moment, they would never rest until every child in
+their class was' washed in the Blood of the Lamb. I saw nothing but
+imperfection in all my work, and want of burning reality for
+souls._
+
+"The scene of the disaster was very near to the children's sleeping
+berths; a very few yards off two women sat upon a box together, one
+was blown up into the air, the other driven she knew not whither; but
+late that night I came across her seeking a bed in Moville, and she
+told me that in those first terrible moments _every sin she had
+ever committed came before, her,_ and the one most awful was her
+having rejected the Lord Jesus Christ. Oh, what our God can do in
+tire twinkling of an eye! by unbalancing a little breath of His own
+created air, then the stoutest-hearted sinners quail."
+
+Another witness wrote:--
+
+_Sunday._
+
+"It is terrible to have been in the midst of such a calamity! and
+the sight of the poor, blackened, and scorched faces of the sufferers
+I shall never forget. There was such a nice, family on board; the
+father, mother, and four children. The mother was blown up; her body
+was found yesterday, scarcely recognisable, but the husband had to go
+and identify it. Poor man! he was here, and in such an agony of
+distress. The last order I heard the Captain give, was thundered out,
+'Send all the women and children up from below,' and Miss Macpherson
+came herself, and dragged me up. Captain Button says there have been
+the most wonderful providences.
+
+"It was wonderful how calm every one seemed at the time of that
+terrible crash. There was no panic, but the peculiar wailing of the
+poor Sardinians rings in my ears still, and the groans of those
+sufferers. Silence must be cast over the scenes of that sad day.
+
+"If I thought of anything at the time of the accident, it was of
+Miss Macpherson's _Bible,_ and I know her thought was for me and
+the children. It was most sweet at the time to see the way people
+thought of others more than of themselves; there were many little
+acts of kindness done then which will never be forgotten.
+
+"Miss Macpherson said to me as we were starting on Thursday, 'I
+think this is going to be a most unusual voyage. I have never had
+such sweet dismissals before.'
+
+"I did so feel as I stood round those poor sufferers. Why was I
+spared? All in the same ship, all exposed to the same peril, and yet
+we are _untouched,_ and what are we better than they? We can
+only bow low before our loving Father with 'What can I render unto
+the Lord for all His benefits towards me?'.. I managed to get to the
+infirmary, where I paid a very interesting visit.... The third
+officer is so terribly hurt, quite unrecognisable."
+
+On her return from Derry, whither she had hastened to give help to
+the sufferers, Mrs. Merry gave a thrilling account of how the waters
+had not been suffered to pass over them, nor the flame permitted to
+kindle upon them; and told how nobly that brave seaman and man of
+God, Captain Dutton, had acted; how he had instantly summoned all
+hands to his help in seeing to the safety of the children, so that in
+less than three minutes by the watch, after the shock, the whole of
+the forty _little_ tones were around Miss Macpherson, having no
+more hurt upon them (with one exception) than a little singed hair
+and a few blisters.
+
+Not only were their lives spared--they were not even called upon to
+"take joyfully the spoiling if their goods," for not one box or
+parcel either of clothing or gospel, tracts and books was lost or
+injured. The "Peruvian" was sent from Liverpool to take, the place of
+the "Sardinian," and the rest of the voyage was accomplished in
+safety.
+
+When nearing Cape Race Miss Macpherson writes:--
+
+"Many a touching scene have we witnessed. A company of between
+twenty and thirty Swiss Christians, with their evangelist, guided by
+a lady, to form a little colony in Canada, when passing through
+Liverpool, had spent all their evenings at the 'Sailors Rest,' so we,
+being I one in the eternal bond, sang together the same hymns, though
+in different languages, the first evening we sailed out. To see them
+drying their Bibles and hymn-books, all the covers gone, oh! it made
+me weep. How very _precious those mutilated books were to them
+now!_ One dear German Christian showed me his Bible, and I was
+told the two front blotted pages were written by a dying mother's
+hand. Another young German, when he found his Bible was safe, forgot
+all else, and danced about with the most touching joy, but then he
+knew not where to put his treasure for safety and to get it pressed.
+Although I understood not his language, and no one was at hand to
+interpret, I put out my hand to help him; he took one long look into
+my face, and with a smile gave me his precious book. Five days after
+we met again, and he held out his hands, exclaiming 'Bibel!'
+
+"You heard how very promptly the Deny Christians acted for the poor
+emigrants. Every minister intimated the need in his church, and the
+response was made before nine o'clock on the Monday morning.
+Cartloads of clothing were sent in and distributed among the
+emigrants, so that as far as covering for the present goes, all have
+been liberally helped to go on their way.
+
+"Sunday.--A day of lovely sunshine, all on deck enjoying the warmth.
+The foreigners quietly reading their mutilated books; but--oh, how
+sad to see!--with the English emigrants it is beer--beer--beer--taking
+with them to the new land habits that will tell ill for them
+wherever they go.
+
+"The children and I spent the morning singing together, and thanking
+our God for all His wondrous love. Often during the-past week I felt
+like breaking down, and letting the pent-up tears flow; but while Bob
+(eleven years old) prayed, I could hold out no longer, and the strong
+sailors leaning over the mid hatchway joined me too, as the dear lad
+asked God, for Jesus' sake, to care for the blind mother he had left
+in the workhouse, and that his runaway brother might be brought to
+Jesus; that his brother with the bad leg might be found of the Lord;
+that his sister in service might please her master and mistress; and
+that he himself might follow Jesus, and be a good boy, and obedient
+to those placed over him."
+
+The following is dated from Galt:--
+
+"Because Thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of Thy
+wings will I rejoice." (Ps. lxiii. 7).
+
+"MY DEAR FELLOW-HELPERS,--On arriving at this sweet spot our
+journeyings ended for the present. You can well imagine the complete
+enjoyment of repose as with my family I wander round the Cottage Home
+when school hours are over. During a week in which I had been
+separated from them, they had made the acquaintance of horses, cows,
+ducks, hens, sheep, &c.--all so new to our poor London children. They
+never tire of inviting me to come and see _our_ this and that,
+or some new-found pleasure. How quickly this country life develops
+character, touching chords which are left unawakened in many a
+nature! It is such a contrast to the artificial tastes and habits of
+city life, which arouse passions not easily kept in subjection.
+
+"Mrs. Merry will be glad to know that I am delighted with all in and
+around the Home. The new wing, with its lavatory and simple
+arrangements for the health and comfort of the children, would, we
+believe, be highly approved of by the relatives of our departed
+friends, Miss Wilson and Mr. Marshall, who so kindly left us the
+means to make this addition. One of our former' boys works on the
+farm; his life was consecrated nearly two years ago for China. He is
+a manly, consistent young Christian, and tells me it was an address
+given here by George W. Clarke (the first of our missionary sons from
+Spitalfields), before he went out to China, that gave him the first
+burning longings to become a missionary. It is my duty to see that a
+suitable education be given him to strengthen these desires;
+therefore when field-work is over, we have hours for study, Mr. Merry
+teaching in the morning, and I in the evening.
+
+"The last mail from China brings a letter from G. W. Clarke, in
+which he writes:--"The Lord has blessed me with good health, whilst
+many of our brethren engaged in the hard work of pioneering are in
+some way feeling the strain upon their strength." I am very thankful
+for the _roughing_ I had in Canada, and for whatever trials I
+have had in China, which have enabled me in any way to "endure
+hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ."
+
+"We need much prayer for this branch of the work, that it may be the
+natural outcome of family life, and grow gradually as our heavenly
+Father leads.
+
+"Several of the elder boys are at the Home now from different
+causes; their work on the farm pays for their board, and they again
+come under blessed Gospel influence, while we watch and pray for"
+their conversion. The dear sisters who work out the details value an
+interest in your prayers, as they so realise 'from day to day the
+need of patience.' All your desires that I should _rest_ are
+being fulfilled. If you could but see me sitting on a bank with three
+or four little heads leaning on my lap, the others buzzing round,
+bringing flowers and weaving wreaths for our hats! Then a hand
+opens to show _'such a dear' young frog!_ Another brings an
+endless variety of caterpillars, &c. Then there come shrieks of
+delight from a group of boys who have almost caught a squirrel A
+rowing boat glides down the river, and the children strike up an
+impromptu strain--'Row, brothers, row!'
+
+"A little fellow has a burden on his mind, ending with, 'Could I not
+stop here always?' Alas! he had to be told 'impossible,' for there
+were many more poor boys far away in London, crying to be loved, and
+he would soon find a 'pa and ma' to love him. How this thirst for
+sympathy grows in these tiny hearts! May more dear mission-workers
+have _anointed eyes_, to seek out the orphans in the dens of our
+great city. May more jewelled fingers yield their offerings, ere the
+opportunity be past, for rescuing immortal souls that may become
+witnesses of Jesus Christ, and shine for ever and ever in His crown.
+
+"Too many seek to square the cases up to their rules, but the
+opposite I believe is more according to God's mind. Oh, if every town
+in Old England would arise and build its own Orphan Home! Surely the
+Church of Christ in every denomination can unite in love over the
+children. Witness the burst of love in a few hours after the
+ministers of every sect in Deny told the need of the emigrants, and
+the children cast naked upon their shores! They gave until the
+receivers said, 'It is enough!'
+
+"In this quiet resting-place, I have time to listen to the Master's
+own voice, and hear Him say, 'Go forward!' This is the twenty-first
+voyage--the _majority_! I would celebrate it by desiring still
+greater things for God's glory, devising, yet leaving the direction
+to the Lord. Already it has proved a time of trial and rich blessing.
+My heart is with you all in, your joyous privileges of making known a
+Saviour's love. My spirit flits to the _needy children_. A
+thousand board schools will never supply the loving, tender care we
+women can give to the fatherless and motherless, or sow the seed and
+lead the precious little souls to Jesus. Therefore follow me in these
+enlarged desires the Lord hath given, and oh! keep your eyes and ears
+open to the cry of the children. Hot summer days will lessen some of
+the Refuge work, but I follow you to Bird Fair, Ratcliff Highway, and
+many a court around. Don't forget that terrible corner by the lamp-post
+in the next street.
+
+"Then for your own souls I send this word--'They thirsted not when
+He led them through the deserts. He caused the waters to flow out of
+the rock for them.' As to your work, Do it. Should He be pleased to
+remove any of us, to stir our nest, or lay sickness upon us, shall we
+not hear Him say, 'Is it not lawful for Me to do what I will with
+mine own?' Beloved friends, 'Hold that fast which thou hast, that no
+man take thy crown.'--Yours affectionately,
+
+"ANNIE MACPHERSON."
+
+The work had now so increased, that it was thought well to divide
+the three Canadian Homes. Hiss Macpherson found the Gait Home
+sufficient for the needs of the children transferred from the Home of
+Industry. Miss Bilbrough retained possession of the Marchmont Home,
+now devoted exclusively to children from Scotland; and the Knowlton
+Home, in the province of Quebec, was placed under the management of
+Mrs. Birt for the reception of little emigrants from Liverpool.
+
+It was at the workers' meeting in August that Miss Macpherson was
+welcomed home; and Miss Ellis of Tryon House said she had been in
+Canada with Miss Macpherson, and the thought most on her mind in
+recollection of the scene on the "Sardinian" was "_given back_."
+As delivered from death, they had returned, each to their loved
+spheres of work, and felt increasingly how consecrated such lives
+should be, and for what great blessing they might look out.
+
+As one quite unconnected with the work, Miss Ellis said she must
+remark how much she had been struck with the arrangements of the Gait
+Home--the children were thoroughly well fed and well cared for (not
+like little princes though, nor above their station), and not an
+unnecessary shilling was expended.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+1879-1880.
+
+Experiences among Indians--Picnic in the Bush--Distribution of
+Testaments--"Till He come"--"A Home and a hearty Welcome."
+
+
+Once more in Canada, Miss Macpherson records experience of an
+unusual kind:--
+
+"In one of the large villages we visited, an all-day prayer-meeting
+was held from 9 A.M. to 9 P.M., which proved a season of rich
+blessing. We found openings for mission work all around, farmers and
+their families willing to gather and sit any length of time with
+Bible and hymn-book in hand. We feel an open door is made for us here
+by the entrance of these little children, who have, proved excellent
+pioneer evangelists.
+
+"After this interesting tour, I was about to return to the Galt
+Home, when a messenger arrived with a pressing invitation to visit
+the Indians on the Chippawa Reserve, and tell them the story of our
+children. This come through their pastor, the Rev. Mr. Jacques, and
+although weary in body, a lady friend and I resolved to go forward to
+Port Elgin, situated on Lake Huron, whence a dear Canadian sister
+drove us along the ten miles of wild and poorly cultivated country
+leading to the Indian reserve. Fire had in past years ravaged the
+district for miles, leaving thousands of charred trunks of high
+trees. We enjoyed the scenery of the beautiful Sangeen, with its
+grand old forests in their finest clothing, and at times we caught
+sight of Lake Huron, lying calm as a mirror, with the last rays of
+the setting sun reflected upon its bosom.
+
+"On arriving at the little manse on Chippawa Hill we were serenaded
+by the Indians, who had already gathered by hundreds from far and
+near. We made a hasty repast, and felt grateful for the opportunity
+afforded us so unexpectedly of speaking to them: Our service was
+opened by singing in Indian a well-known hymn of praise. Then one of
+the evangelists spoke upon a portion of Scripture for twenty minutes,
+after the other had prayed, when an interpreter took half-an-hour to
+translate it into their own language, after which my companion sang
+"The Ninety and Nine," and I spoke. The interpreter repeated the
+story, and though our audience scarcely ever moved, the pastor's wife
+said they were feeling deeply."
+
+"Many a dear squaw and I clasped hands that night, and we gazed into
+each other's eyes, knowing full well, although unexpressed, that we
+were one in the same deep love for the weak and helpless."
+
+"While the choir sang another hymn, under the direction of the
+pastor's daughter, who is also the daily teacher of the young, we
+showed some of our photographs, and never were more grateful for that
+art. My lady friend sang another solo, and then began an
+indescribable scene. Chief John was first introduced to us, as we
+stood on a raised platform with a rail in front. The dear old man
+seemed much moved, and burst into an oration full of gratitude for
+our coming to visit his people. We acknowledged this, when the whole
+congregation of three to four hundred, young and old, passed and
+shook hands with us. Every now and then we were presented with gifts,
+made by the hands of the giver. Chief Henry's wife gave a beautiful
+bark basket ornamented with porcupine's quills. Then another head man
+gave us a bag made of beaten bark, saying this was made before they
+knew the white man. We thought that now all was over, but no. All
+were again seated, quietly and in order, the grace of ease and
+perfect harmony pervading the whole scene. The Indians had a wish to
+do us honour, and to show their love in their own way, we were each
+to receive from them an Indian name. We found this new name had
+required thought, and when saying 'Buzhu?' or 'How do you do?' they
+after this called us by the name they had given.
+
+"The pastor, (Mr. Jacques), and his wife and family, were truly
+parental in their actions, and are beloved by these simple-hearted
+Indians. It was a touching scene! There are ninety in Christian
+fellowship, and among them some old veterans of ninety years, with
+scarcely a grey hair, and more sprightly than the young men in their
+tribes to-day. As regularly as the sun rises, they are at the church
+door, though they live five miles off, through swamp and wood.
+
+"One thing charmed me,--the firm law made for them in connection
+with drink. Would that England would treat our white drunkards in the
+same way! A man, when found the worse for liquor, is fined from fifty
+to two hundred dollars, or put in prison for one month; also the man
+who sells it to him. Two more weeks are added if he will not tell who
+supplied him with the drink.
+
+"On leaving the next morning, I was addressed by my new name,
+'Ke-zha-wah-de-ze-qua' (Benevolence); my friend also was greeted as
+'Wah sage zhe go-qua' (Shining-sky lady)."
+
+The following account of a picnic in the Canadian Bush, at which an
+Indian chief was present, will not be out of place here:--
+
+"A picnic is a much more frequent entertainment in this country than
+in England, for the lovely bright days of a Canadian summer are so
+much more suitable than our damp and variable weather. Miss
+Macpherson was anxious to meet as many as possible of the kind
+friends in and around the Children's Home at Galt, who are interested
+in the Lord's work among the little ones. A picnic was suggested as
+most pleasant, and the Bush as more spacious than our cottage-rooms.
+So a general invitation was given through the ministers and the local
+papers.
+
+"Last Thursday was all that could be desired. Cool breezes tempered
+the hot sunbeams, and a brilliant blue sky was reflected in the
+still, flowing river. Such a lovely spot, too, is the 'Home' Bush! A
+partially cleared space near the river was chosen for the tables and
+seats; nearby a log-fire was kindled, on which huge kettles of water
+were boiled. One thing only marred our hopes for the day. Miss
+Macpherson herself was almost prostrate through a sharp attack of
+rheumatism, and oar hearts sank as we feared she would be unable to
+be among us. However, in the 'prayer of faith' we laid her deep need
+before the Lord, and He graciously gave her the faith to trust Him,
+and the courage to attempt, even in great pain, to rise from bed, and
+walk down to the Bush. The needed strength was marvellously given,
+and she was able to remain with us until sunset. Truly the Lord doeth
+wondrous things!
+
+"At four o'clock our guests began to arrive. One visitor was the
+centre of attraction--a chief of the Six Nation Indians, from the
+reserve near Brantford, who arrived earlier in the day with Mr. B.
+Needham, the missionary. Chief Jonathan, now a Christian, was dressed
+in the native costume, now worn only on high days and holidays. Most
+picturesque it was to see him seated on the green slope near the
+river, leaning against a tall maple tree. His coat and trousers of
+yellow buckskin were fringed at the edges. An embroidered scarlet
+sash was loosely tied around his waist. Then his head-gear was most
+striking. Long thin black hair hung over his shoulders,--not his own,
+but from the scalp of some poor Indian slain in warfare! This was
+surmounted by a turban cap of scarlet, and white beads, a row of
+feathers all round it, and in front three or four very long bright
+feathers standing erect. He was able to talk with us in English, and
+told us how his grandfathers owned all the land along the 'Grand
+River.' It is very pitiful to think how the poor Indians have been
+pushed further and further into little corners of their once proud
+territory, to make way for the white man, who, alas! brought to them
+the terrible 'fire-water' which has gone so far to prove their ruin
+and increase their desolation. Thank God that now they have earnest
+men of God, whom His own love and zeal for souls has so filled as to
+enable them to give up all for His glory, and go and live among these
+dark, despised ones, and take to them the glad tidings of a free
+salvation.
+
+"During our tea-hour great interest was taken by all our friends in
+the group of little ones enjoying their cake and tea, and Miss
+Macpherson told how good the Lord had been to the mission, in opening
+up homes for nearly all the sixty rescued children we brought out
+three weeks ago. After tea, our forty younger ones seated themselves
+in a ring upon the green grass, under the shade of the maple and
+hickory trees. They sang sweet hymns of Jesus, and repeated many
+precious texts for Mr. Needham to take as their messages of love to
+the Indian children in his Sunday-school. Little Bobbie gave as his
+text, 'God requireth that which is past.' Joey then stood up and
+repeated, 'Suffer little children to come unto Me.' Johnnie and
+Georgie gave, 'The eyes of the Lord are in every place,' and 'When my
+father and mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up.'
+
+"A few questions followed from Miss Macpherson,--'How can any one
+get into heaven?' 'They must love God,' was the first answer. 'They
+must have their hearts changed,' said another. Then Bobbie's clear
+voice was heard, again, 'By being washed in the blood of Jesus!'
+Beautiful answer! wondrous truth!
+
+"The Indian chief stood gazing in calm wonder at this circle of
+happy English children. Presently Mr. Needham rose and said: 'The
+Chief tells me he is very anxious to say a few words to the "Queen"
+(_i.e.,_ Miss Macpherson), to the friends, and to the children.
+He understands English, but his thoughts flow more freely in his
+native tongue, and he has asked me to be his interpreter. He says
+that many years ago his fathers kindled the fire and smoked 'the pipe
+of peace' at such a gathering, and he thanks God for such a sight as
+this. He has never been so touched as this afternoon by the
+children's texts and answers. One hymn especially has struck him--
+
+
+ 'There's a home for little children,
+  Above the bright, blue sky.'
+
+
+'His fathers looked for the home of the spirits, but knew nothing of
+the Christian's heaven. There are still, in his nation, 700 pagans
+who sacrifice the white dog to the spirits, and are ever travelling
+towards the land of the setting sun. He hopes the pagan children will
+be taught about Jesus. He is so touched by the care taken of these
+little ones and by the work of the Christian lady who saves them. The
+Chief says he is very thankful I brought him here to-day. The circle
+on the grass reminds him of how the Indian children sit to sacrifice
+the white dog. He is going back to tell the children of his people
+all these blessed things.'
+
+"During Mr. Needham's interpretation the Chief stood by him, his
+usually impassive face quite lit up with animated interest. After a
+while he played to us on his cornet, his favourite tune being 'God
+save the Queen.' Mr. Needham told us a few deeply interesting details
+of his work among the Indians, and how the Lord is giving His
+blessing in conversions, and also in the temperance work just begun
+among them. He told us of an Indian mother who would walk eight miles
+to hear the Gospel, with one baby slung over her back, in its curious
+mummy-like cradle, and another slung on her arm! The poor Indians are
+beginning really to value the care and labour bestowed on them by the
+missionary whom God has so evidently prepared for and led into this
+work. And surely such a mission as this has a deep and solemn claim
+on the help and sympathy of those who have now possession of the land
+of the Red Indian, and enjoy the blessings he has lost. Let the
+white man, who brought him the 'fire-water,'--dire instrument of
+death!--seek now, though, alas! so late, to carry to him with all
+speed the blessed 'water of life,' that he may drink and live for
+ever.
+
+"As the shadows on the grass grew longer, and the west began to glow
+with the sunset crimson, the little ones, tired yet happy, were taken
+home to bed, and our kind friends bade as all farewell. When we look
+back on our happy picnic in the Bush, and raise our earnest prayers
+for the dear children God has rescued and shall yet rescue, let us
+not forget to plead for the mission to the Six Nation Indians, and to
+ask that the light of the glorious Gospel may speedily bring hope and
+gladness to many a poor dark heart."
+
+Miss Macpherson's next letter tells of many varied interests:--
+
+"DEAR FELLOW-WORKERS,--Our proposed three days of Christian
+fellowship and conference at the Galt Home are now over. Numbers were
+not large, the accommodation here being limited, bat several
+ministers, evangelists, and devoted brothers and sisters, who have
+true sympathy in the Master's work for the deaf children, waited on
+the Lord with us, and it has proved a time of great spiritual
+blessing, preparing us to go forth in the days that remain, strong to
+labour for our blessed Lord, just to do His will.
+
+"Leaving matters at Galt going on in their even way, only varied by
+the occasional return of children, who, from temper, ill-health, or
+some other cause, have not been able to remain in the situations
+first found for them, (which shows the value of our Homes on this
+side the Atlantic), we are again on the wing.
+
+"The Sunday after the conference was spent at Sheffield, a village
+containing a thousand inhabitants. On arriving we found the sheds
+around the church full of conveyances, betokening a good
+congregation. The people, looking bright in their white summer
+costumes, joined with wonderful heartiness in singing, 'All hail the
+power of Jesus' name.' Mr. Merry gave a powerful address on Ezek.
+xxxvii. 1-10. During the afternoon we learned that a time of revival
+had sprung from a few godly women meeting at each other's houses to
+pray for a blessing on the village. They felt the need of a definite
+object for their prayers, and selected a young man who was a great
+drunkard, and the disturber of every meeting. Soon they were rejoiced
+to learn that he was truly converted to the Lord without any human
+agency. Now his face is the brightest of the congregation, and none
+is more active to win souls than he. On leaving Sheffield we were
+grateful to know we had secured many hearts to pray for us and our
+little ones.
+
+"We took a large case of Testaments to the next place we visited; and
+an evangelist who had been labouring for some weeks there, sold for
+us; on Henry Moorhouse's plan, in the market-place, 600 Testaments,
+and gave away 7200 Gospel leaflets.
+
+"Since then we have stayed with the friends at St. Catharine's,
+exchanging words of cheer with Presbyterian, Episcopal, Methodist,
+and other brethren. Now we are staying with members of the Society
+of Friends at Fonthill. How sweet is this fellowship of saints,
+'endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace!'
+Here we learn with joy how our brother-in-law was used to the
+conversion of many in the villages around during the past winter.
+We have been comparing notes with four of the dear sisters here,
+contrasting our work at Ratcliff Highway, with its three mission-houses,
+our elder girls, widows, and lodging-houses, with theirs among navvies
+on Welland Canal, drunkards, and farmers and their wives living away
+in solitary nooks. The work is one presenting a full, free, and
+present salvation by a once crucified and now risen Lord.
+
+"The dear wife of the Lord's honoured servant, Jonathan Grubb, is
+giving great joy and help to the busy workers on this hill-top, by
+sending large parcels of tracts purchased from the various societies
+in England, assorted into packets during her winter hours. From the
+friends here they go to many a lone corner of the great continent.
+The postal charges are so small, that surely many a sister might
+share with us in sending a fresh packet now and again to those who
+have little reading of any kind; also the many gifts from the Tract
+Society have been most valuable in these country places.
+
+"Our children settled in the neighbourhood of Font-hill are growing
+up into manhood, some of them becoming earnest Christians.
+
+"Our stay is necessarily brief; distances are great, and strength
+small; but we ever realise, 'He leadeth us.'
+
+"Dear fellow-workers, let us watch and pray, and labour on, 'till He
+come.'"
+
+"Till He come!". It is sweet with these words to close this
+imperfect record of the labours of the Lord's beloved handmaid;
+especially when we look back to the time twenty years' before, when
+the "blessed hope" was first made the source of new strength and
+power to her soul. May not the words of the letter quoted above be
+adopted with little alteration by every Christian labourer? Our stay
+can be but brief,--perhaps not one working hour is yet left to us,
+and how emphatically do the words now come to us, "Redeeming the time
+_because_ the days are evil;" so evil, that were it not for the
+sure word of prophecy, we should lie down in despair. If we looked to
+present agency to change the scenes of sin and sorrow around us, all
+hope would vanish. But we have "a hope that maketh not ashamed," and
+"that blessed hope" is an "anchor of the soul" "The work is great,"
+great it has always been, but how much greater now that doors
+hitherto closed are open in every part of the world; from every
+country the cry is, "Come over and help us." Many a solitary pioneer
+has fallen, oh! that others might come forth to fill up the ranks.
+"Strength is small;" "Without me ye can do nothing;" "Is there not an
+appointed warfare (margin) to man upon earth?" He, who has appointed
+the warfare will not send any at their own charges. The "blessed
+hope" strengthens the weak hands and confirms the feeble knees. He
+will give the grace, the wisdom, the strength, all that is needed,
+day by day. _"Till He come."_ Three little words--no more--but
+who can tell the comfort, the strength, the sweetness this hope
+brings to those who are watching for the coming of their King?
+
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+
+The following deeply affecting lines are from the same pen as those
+before quoted. Miss Geldard, the gifted writer, was for a time a much
+valued fellow-labourer both in England and Canada:--
+
+
+A HOME AND A HEARTY WELCOME.
+
+  All day has the air been busy,
+   As the daylight hours went by,
+  With the laugh of the children's gladness,
+   Or their pitiful, hopeless cry.
+
+  But now all is hushed in silence,
+   They are lying in slumber deep:
+  While I ask, in this solemn midnight,
+   _Where_ do the children sleep?
+
+  We know there are children sleeping
+   In many a happy home,
+  Where sickness rarely enters,
+   Where want may never come.
+
+  Their hands in prayer were folded
+   Ere they laid them down to rest,
+  And on rosy lip and soft white brow
+   Were a mother's kisses pressed.
+
+  They sleep and dream of angels;
+   Ah! well may their dreams be fair!--
+  Their home is now so like a heaven,
+   They seem already there.
+
+  But where are the children sleeping
+    In these wretched streets around,
+  Where sin, and want, and sorrow
+    Their choicest haunt have found?
+
+  Will you climb this broken staircase,
+    And glance through this shattered door;
+  Oh, can there be children sleeping
+    On that filthy and crowded floor?
+
+  Yes! old and young together,
+    A restless, moaning heap;
+  O God! while they thus are sleeping,
+    How dare Thy children sleep?
+
+  Does the night air make you shiver,
+    As the stream sweeps coldly by?
+  (Cold as the hearts of the heedless),
+    Here, too, do the children lie.
+
+  An archway their only shelter;
+    The pavement their nightly bed;
+  Thou, too, when on earth, dear Saviour,
+    Hadst nowhere to lay _Thy_ head.
+
+  So we know Thou art here, dear Master,
+    Thy form we can almost see;
+  Do we tear Thy sad voice saying,
+    "Ye did it not to Me?"
+
+  Yes, chill is the wind-swept archway,
+    The pavement is cold and hard
+  Better the workhouse coffin,
+    Softer the graveyard sward.
+
+  Thank God! yet we say it weeping,
+    Thank God for many a grave!
+  There sleep the little children
+    Whom Christians would not save!
+
+  Yet smiles through our tears are dawning
+    When we think of the hope that lies
+  In our children's Land of Promise,
+    'Neath the clear Canadian skies.
+
+  Though the frost he thick on the windows,
+    Though the roof with snow is white,
+  We know our Canadian children
+    Are safe and warm to-night.
+
+  There thick are the homespun blankets,
+    And the buffalo robes are warm;
+  Then why should these children shiver
+    Out here in the winter storm?
+
+  Why wait till the prison claims them?
+    Why wait till of hope bereft
+  For that fair young girl the river
+    Be the only refuge left?
+
+  Come! help us, answer the message
+    Now pealing across the seas--
+  "A home and a hearty welcome
+    For hundreds such as these!"
+
+  It comes from broad Ontario,
+    And from Nova Scotia's shore;
+  They have loved and sheltered our gathered waifs,
+    They have room for thousands more.
+
+       S. R. GELDARD.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+Questions and Answers--Sorrowful Cases--Testimonies from those who
+have visited Canada--Stewardship.
+
+
+The fallowing plain answers to practical questions, are written by
+those well acquainted with the work:--
+
+I. "Are these children really _street Arabs?_ If not, where do
+you find so many?"
+
+In the early days of the work, before the establishment of School
+Boards and kindred institutions, a large proportion of the children
+were actually taken from the streets. Now, the rescue work begins
+farther back, and seeks to get hold of the little ones before they
+hare had a taste of street life and become contaminated. A policeman
+brings one sometimes, having found it in a low lodging-house,
+forsaken by its worthless, drunken parents. Christian ladies are ever
+on the look-out for the little ones in their work among the poor, and
+many a child has been taken straight from the dying bed of its only
+remaining parent to Miss Macpherson. "Rescued from a workhouse life"
+might be written on many a bright little brow, and "saved from drink"
+on many more. Poor, delicate widows, striving vainly to keep a large,
+young family, have often proved their true, unselfish love by giving
+up one or two to Miss Macpherson to be taken to Canada. Such are
+encouraged always to write to and keep in loving memory the dear
+toiling mother at home. Widowed fathers in ill-health, and short of
+work, feeling their utter helplessness to do for their motherless
+flock, have come to Miss Macpherson entreating her to take care of
+some of them.
+
+2. "How come the Canadian farmers to be willing to take these
+children?"
+
+From a business point of view this is quite easily explained. Labour
+is so scarce out there, and hired help so dear, while _food_ is
+_so plentiful,_ that the Canadian farmer finds it quite worth
+his while to take a little boy from the old country, whom he can
+train and teach as his own, and who very soon will repay him in quick
+ability for farm labour.
+
+3. "Are you sure the children are really _better off_ there?"
+
+Every boy in Canada has before him a definite hope for the future.
+If he be steady, industrious, and of average intelligence, he may
+reasonably look to being independent some day, to owning land of his
+own, and attaining an honourable position in Canada. People do not
+amass fortunes there as a rule, but they may all live in comfort and
+plenty, and what they have is their own. Surely this is a brighter
+prospect than the ceaseless round of toil at desk or counter, in
+which so many in England,--even the more fortunate,--spend their
+youth helping to make rich men richer.
+
+4. "Among the hundreds are there not some failures, some exceptions?
+What becomes of them?"
+
+Yes, there are disappointments and failures in this work as well as
+in every other. We do not take little angels to Canada, but very
+human little boys and girls with every variety of temper and
+character, and sometimes hereditary disadvantages which it is hard to
+battle with. But patient forbearance and gentle treatment and time do
+so much for them. And often a kind farmer has asked to be allowed to
+keep, and "try again" the wilful little fellow who has tried to run
+away or proved tiresome to manage.
+
+"Ninety-eight per cent, of our children do well, and for the two per
+cent, we do the best we can. If any circumstance arises making it
+desirable for a farmer to give up a boy, he is at once returned to
+the Home, where he is received and kept until another more suitable
+place is found for him."
+
+Should any be still blinded to the blessings of emigration for the
+young, surely their eyes will be opened on reading the following
+facts as related by Miss Macpherson:--
+
+"William and Mary were brother and sister living in a terrible
+warren near Drury Lane. The boy's employment was to gather rags and
+bones. Their parents had been buried by the workhouse. Their
+condition was too deplorable to be described. A year's training was
+not lost upon this sister and brother. They came to Canada in 1873.
+Now, could yon see them at nineteen and twenty-two--able to read and
+write, well-clothed with their own honest earnings, having saved, in
+1877, one hundred dollars; and this year, 1879, William is having
+$100 as wages, and Mary $60. They come from time to time to visit the
+Home. William is thinking of having a farm of his own.
+
+"A. B.--Who was he? The son of a drunken woman, who, when very
+tipsy still comes in from Ratcliff Highway to abuse us at
+Spitalfields. Alfred has been many years in a lawyer's family, and
+has saved enough money to be apprenticed as an engineer. He was a
+wise boy to be guided by the kind counsel of those he served. We are
+not satisfied with earthly adoptions only; we continue to pray that
+each one may be adopted into the family of those who are washed in
+the blood of the Lamb.
+
+"Well do we remember the winter, when a wild man from Seven Dials
+discovered that we had the little Annie, of whom he used to make such
+traffic in the gin palaces; though we had no right to her. The lamb
+was but six years old. Thank God, an ocean separates her from his
+drunken villanies. Now she is with kind-hearted, homely people, the
+companion and playmate of their daughter.
+
+"S. W., seven years old; so puny--only a few pounds weight--owing to
+her being starved and beaten by a drunken stepfather. Now, a year in
+a happy home, going to school regularly, is companion to an only
+child, and lacks no earthly comfort. The poor mother was ill-used in
+the dens where she lived by her neighbours, for having, they said,
+sold her child. We received a photograph of the little one from her
+happy Canadian home; this closed every mouth, for it could not be
+gainsaid.
+
+"Whilst stopping at one of the railway stations, we were accosted by
+a young man, who told us he was one of our old boys of ten years ago,
+but was now settled in that town. He had 'rolled' about a good deal,
+he said, but at last had settled down, and never was so happy in his
+life before. He had sent for his brother to come and live with him.
+Since then John and his wife have spent a day at the Gait Home, and
+they think in another year, if they continue to prosper, that they
+also would like to be entrusted with a little one. Thus openings are
+ever occurring for those yet to follow."
+
+Since the above was written other young emigrants, now married and
+settled in homes of their own, have offered to adopt orphans and
+children, homeless as they once were themselves.
+
+The following are independent testimonies of those who have
+travelled or are residing in Canada:--
+
+The late Sir Charles Reed, Chairman of the London School Board,
+stated that in his visit to Canada last year he had given special
+attention to Miss Macpherson's work, and as his inquiries and
+investigations were made unofficially, the information he obtained
+might be looked upon as quite impartial. He was gratified by hearing
+from the Governor-General, Lord Dufferin, at Quebec, that he was well
+informed as to the work, and bore testimony to its worth. He (Sir
+Charles) was prepared to say that the children were warmly welcomed
+and kindly treated. He also, without making his purpose known,
+visited some of the homes where the children were located, and what
+he saw only confirmed what he had been told, as to the Canadians'
+appreciation of the children. They were well occupied, well fed, and
+as happy as they could be. He had entered into conversation with the
+children as to familiar scenes in the East of London, and learned how
+pleased they were with their new homes.
+
+At Toronto he met Miss Bilbrough, a lady in charge of one of the
+Homes, and a person enthusiastically devoted to this merciful work,
+who thus became a true "Sister of Mercy." God has endowed woman
+largely for this Christian ministry. In half an hour she thoroughly
+interested him in the work, and put him in possession of such facts
+as convinced him that the work was one which in England demanded
+Christian sympathy and support. It was work which goes on quietly,
+and is little talked of; but it ought to be, as he trusted it would
+be, widely known. He was glad to say that through the School Board it
+was becoming known to intelligent Christian men both in and out of
+Parliament. It is good to work in faith, as those in charge of this
+work do; but it is also good to have evidence as an encouragement to
+faith, and as a corroboration of the work. Such evidence he, as in a
+sense a special commissioner, had qualified himself to give, and it
+gave him much pleasure to render it.
+
+"WOODVILLE PLACE, DUNDEE, 13th August 1873.
+
+"MY DEAR MISS MACPHERSON,--Various ministerial and pastoral
+occupations, since my return home, have prevented me from carrying
+out my intention of putting into shape my impressions and thoughts
+about Canada and your work. If the Lord will, I shall do so at no
+great distance of time. Meanwhile, allow me to express in a few words
+my mature judgment in regard to the leading features of your work. It
+seems to me to furnish the key to the solution of one of the most
+difficult problems in Home Mission work.
+
+"The character of the training to which the children are subjected
+previous to their removal to Canada appears to be all that could be
+desired. I was delighted with their knowledge of Scripture, their
+general intelligence, their respectful bearing to their superiors,
+their promptness of obedience, and other evidences of religious
+conviction working itself out in their general conduct. The
+extraordinary care exhibited in the selection of homes and in the
+placing of them out in Canada strikes me as one of the most important
+and valuable elements of the work. Most of all was I charmed with the
+noble Christian character of your fellow-workers, and was thoroughly
+convinced that a very remarkable measure of the blessing of God rests
+upon the entire movement. I anticipate the most precious results for
+time, and in view of eternity the issues of the movement will exceed
+all calculation. I could say much more, but for the present must
+forbear. For the sake of the poor, dear, lost little ones in our
+large towns; for the sake of Canada, of whose wants I am not
+ignorant; for the sake of humanity, and, above all, for the Lord's
+sake, I heartily wish you were enabled to carry every summer
+thousands instead of hundreds of little children across the Atlantic
+to be settled in those beautiful Canadian regions, where by God's
+blessing they may grow up 'trees of righteousness, the planting of
+the Lord, that He might be glorified.'
+
+"Go on, my dear friend; the Lord is manifestly with you, and He will
+bless you still-aye, and more than ever.
+
+"JOHN MACPHERSON."
+
+_"November 5th, 1874._
+
+"Having just returned from a six weeks' visit to Canada, I wish to
+add my testimony to the many already given of the very valuable work
+of Miss Macpherson in the three Homes which she has established in
+Canada for young British destitute children, each Home under the
+direction of devoted and much esteemed Christian ladies.
+
+"Lady Cavan and I found much pleasure in visiting all these Homes,
+situated in different parts of the Dominion of Canada, in each of
+which children are received from two to twelve years of age, looked
+after with motherly affection. The greater number sent out this year
+had been provided for.
+
+"There is a great demand for young children in this country, where
+domestic and farming servants are so few, and numbers of these
+children are adopted into families, the greatest care being taken to
+place them with kind and good people. They are either trained for the
+place which they will occupy, or, for the most part, are loved and
+treated as children of the house.
+
+"It needs but to see for oneself the happy, bright faces of the
+children, to be satisfied of the value and importance of this
+transplanting institution for the rescuing of children from their
+degraded position, for which they are in nowise responsible. May many
+be brought under the Christian, happy influence of Miss Macpherson,
+through the liberality of those interested in our poor."
+
+"CAVAN."
+
+What a work of blessing is being carried on by the different Homes
+here! My soul has been greatly refreshed this Christmas in seeing
+some of the dear boys return to 'Blair Athol,' to spend a few days
+with our sister Miss Macpherson. The change in appearance, from
+London's hapless poverty and degradation, to this glorious
+clime,--bright, rosy faces, full of laughter and fun, and yet deeply
+interested in the dear, loving Saviour, whose Spirit thus practically
+tells His own sweet story of love to their young hearts. One dear
+fellow specially delighted me. I was present as he was ushered in
+with his little brother, his eyes full of tears of gratitude and joy
+as he said to Miss Macpherson, 'Please, Miss, here's a present for
+you,' drawing a large, fat, beautiful goose from under his arm,
+carefully packed. Excuse my adjectives, but I cannot help it, for I
+fairly loved the boys; and when I looked back but four years, and
+contrasted their hapless life (workhouse children) in one of our
+English provincial towns, my spirit was full of gladness, and I
+thanked God for these broad lands, and the untiring energy of the
+band of workers and friends who so intelligently and successfully
+save them from poverty, crime, and wretchedness, and by change of
+position, sympathy, common sense, and Christian love, fit them for
+useful, prosperous lives here, and, by grace, for eternal glory
+yonder.
+
+"HENRY VARLEY"
+
+The following is from a Canadian friend and benefactor:--
+
+"Dear Miss Macpherson,--My attention has been called to a
+communication referring unfavourably to your work in bringing out the
+little waifs and strays from England, and placing them in farmers'
+homes in the country of this Canada of ours. I have thought that
+perhaps a letter from me, giving my experience, might not be out of
+place.
+
+"Fully eleven years ago I first heard of your intention to bring out
+some young emigrants to Canada, and as I heard that they were of the
+degraded, vicious, and criminal class, I did not look with favour
+upon the effort. Being in England shortly after the first lot came
+out, without making my object known, I went down to the East End of
+London repeatedly, and personally inquired into the working of the
+scheme, saw the gathering in from the widows' families, the orphans,
+the destitute, and those worse than orphans. I saw the cleaning, the
+fresh clothing, the training in work and discipline, and, above all,
+the schooling in religious teaching from God's Book, and singing
+sweet Gospel hymns. I was satisfied that this part of the work was
+being well done in England, and great care exercised in selecting
+only suitable cases and giving lengthened training; so that the girls
+and boys from the youngest to those of thirteen and fourteen years of
+age, when drafted to Canada in fifties and hundreds, looked likely
+youngsters for workers in this land of plenty.
+
+"After my return to Canada, having got thoroughly interested in the
+work, seeing at least that it was doing a good work for London in
+relieving the over-population there, I decided, if in my judgment the
+work was as well cared for in Canada, and as much care exercised in
+placing them out in homes as in gathering in and training, then it
+would prove a good work for Canada also.
+
+"Now, (after over ten years), I can say, from large personal
+experience, that the placing of several thousands of these young,
+sturdy, willing workers in the homes of our Canadian fanners, through
+this agency, has been a blessing to Canada, not only as workers, but
+also in many cases carrying good religious influences with them. The
+greatest care is exercised in selecting suitable homes, and in no
+case is a child placed out unless the applicant brings good
+certificates of character from the minister or justice of the peace.
+In these homes of the farmers the youngsters are well-fed, well-clothed,
+and well-treated, in most cases made one of the family. I have
+constantly inquired, in various localities, as to how these
+young people are getting on, from prominent men, such as judges,
+members of Parliament, mayors and councillors of towns, ministers and
+fanners, and am satisfied as a whole they turn out as well as the
+average of young people from any class of society. Some prove
+unsuitable--these are returned to the Distributing Homes and given a
+fresh start; some few turn out badly or sickly--these are returned to
+England: but compared with the large number that turn out well the
+average is very small. I know the Distributing Homes at Knowlton, at
+Belleville, and at Galt; they are fine, comfortable, substantial
+buildings, and at Galt there is a farm of 100 acres of land. I know
+the workers and the oversight they take in training until placed out,
+the care taken in placing out, how they visit and correspond with
+them, and I have seen and possess hundreds of letters from these
+youngsters, written voluntarily by them from their new homes, many of
+which have been published in Canadian as well as English papers from
+time to time. I have seen and possess hundreds of photographs of
+these waifs and strays as taken into the gathering Homes in London,
+then brought out to Canada, then, after being here two, five, and
+even ten years, the progress being marvellous.
+
+"Now, in conclusion, having within the past month visited the Galt
+Home and Farm, with more than fifty healthy, hearty, vigorous
+youngsters being trained and fitted for work among Canadian farmers,
+it is my firm conviction that this work is being well done on both
+sides of the Atlantic. It is being carried on upon right principles
+and from pure motives, and God has owned and blessed it wonderfully.
+There is not only room for, but a hearty welcome also for hundreds
+more of such emigrants. The work has proved a blessing to Canada as
+well as a blessing to England, and those engaged in it should receive
+hearty encouragement on both sides of the Atlantic.
+
+"--Yours faithfully,
+
+"T. J. CLAXTON.
+
+"MONTREAL, _July 1st, 1881._"
+
+Miss Macpherson writes after Lord Dufferin's visit to the Galt Home:--
+
+"His lordship said, 'We meet your children everywhere, and they are
+so happy; we have crossed the ocean with them, and even last night
+where we were slaying we were waited upon by one of your boys as a
+page,--he did it well too.'"
+
+STEWARDSHIP.
+
+May Miss Macpherson's solemn words on stir up many to follow her
+self-denying efforts, and may the same blessing attend them.
+
+"Since 1868, we have been receiving the love offerings of the Lord's
+almoners, and under the direction of two auditors and a public
+accountant, a yearly balance sheet has been issued. To the praise of
+the Lord who knoweth the needs of the destitute ones we have sought
+to help, we have not been permitted to contract a debt, or been left
+in want of bread or clothing at any time. Our faith has been
+frequently proved, at times for days, and at others for years. Yet
+our 'God is love,' and we are in His own wondrous school, and bow to
+every trial.
+
+"From 4000 to 6000 pounds annually have been the requirements of the
+mission. As it came, so was the money spent, leaving us often with a
+very small balance, but always on the right side.
+
+"When the funds have been low we have often been led to wonder and
+adore the love that placed our burdens upon the hearts of others,
+causing them to consider Him who loved them, and who had enjoined us
+to go forth and sympathise with the 'Christies' grinding their old
+organs, and the 'Jessicas,' with broken hearts, crying for bread in
+the alleys of our great city.
+
+"Our sainted sister, Miss Havergal, once earnestly entreated us to
+write on about the needs of little children. Mrs. Herbert Taylor, now
+in glory, said, 'Oh continue unto the end pleading the Christ-like
+cause.'
+
+"Yes! we are stewards, and not of money only.
+
+"Do these departed workers regret one effort made for Jesus? It is
+only now we can watch with Him for the little children,--the
+opportunities for self-denial will soon be past. No more long
+voyages, or sleepless nights,--soon the Lord Himself will come, our
+bungling and failures all blotted out by the blood on the Mercy-seat.
+Let us employ every remaining hour for our Lord as He leads us forth;
+let the eye rest upon the grace that was in Jesus when He took the
+little children in His arms (Mark x. 13-16). How full of tenderness
+as we see Him placing the child by Himself (Luke ix. 47, 48). Would
+we follow Him, then shall we be faithful stewards of every gift with
+which He has entrusted us. When we have had nothing left but
+Himself,-so near to faith's vision,--then how inexpressibly full has
+shone out one or other of the 33,000 precious, never-failing promises.
+
+"Precious Comforter! drawing ever near to His oft 'perplexed, reasoning,
+troubled' ones; waiting to comfort them; showing them His hands and His
+feet, and lifting those hands to bless them (Luke xxiv)."
+
+
+  "'A little while' for patient vigil keeping,
+      To face the stem, to wrestle with the strong;
+   'A little while,' to sow the seed with weeping,
+      Then bind the sheaves and sing the harvest song.
+
+  "And He who is Himself the Gift and Giver--
+      The future glory and the present smile,
+   With the bright promise of the glad 'for ever,'
+      Will light the shadows of the 'little while!'"
+
+
+"YET A LITTLE WHILE, AND HE THAT SHALL COME WILL COME,
+AND WILL NOT TARRY."
+
+
+
+
+THE END.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of God's Answers, by Clara M. S. Lowe
+
+*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK GOD'S ANSWERS ***
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+eBook #6713 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/6713)
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+The Project Gutenberg EBook of God's Answers, by Clara M. S. Lowe
+
+Copyright laws are changing all over the world. Be sure to check the
+copyright laws for your country before downloading or redistributing
+this or any other Project Gutenberg eBook.
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+**Welcome To The World of Free Plain Vanilla Electronic Texts**
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+**eBooks Readable By Both Humans and By Computers, Since 1971**
+
+*****These eBooks Were Prepared By Thousands of Volunteers!****
+
+
+Title: God's Answers
+       A Record Of Miss Annie Macpherson's Work at the
+       Home of Industry, Spitalfields, London, and in Canada
+
+Author: Clara M. S. Lowe
+
+Release Date: October, 2004 [EBook #6713]
+[Yes, we are more than one year ahead of schedule]
+[This file was first posted on January 18, 2003]
+
+Edition: 10
+
+Language: English
+
+Character set encoding: ASCII
+
+*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK GOD'S ANSWERS ***
+
+
+
+
+Produced by Avinash Kothare, Tom Allen, Juliet Sutherland, Charles Franks
+and the Online Distributed Proofreading Team.
+
+This file was produced from images generously made available by the
+Canadian Institute for Historical Microreproductions.
+
+
+
+
+GOD'S ANSWERS:
+
+A RECORD OF
+
+MISS ANNIE MACPHERSON'S WORK
+
+AT THE HOME OF INDUSTRY, SPITALFIELDS, LONDON,
+AND IN CANADA.
+
+CLARA M. S. LOWE
+
+"Peace, peace be unto thee, and peace be to thine helpers; for thy God
+helpeth thee."
+
+--1 CHRON. xii. 18.
+
+
+
+
+CONTENTS.
+
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+1861-1869.
+
+Prayer of Hon. and Rev. Baptist Noel--Residence in Cambridgeshire--
+Visit to London in 1861, and first attendance at Barnet Conferences--
+Visit of Rev. W. and Mrs. Pennefather--East of London, 1861--Left
+Cambridgeshire, 1865--Work in Bedford Institute--1866: Voyage to New
+York and return, 1867--First girl rescued--Matchbox-makers--First boy
+rescued--Revival Refuge open for boys and girls--1868: Home of
+Industry secured--1869: Opened.
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+1869-1870.
+
+Emigration of families--A visitor's impressions--The great life-work
+--Emigration of the young, begun 1870--First party of boys to Canada
+with Miss Macpherson and Miss Bilbrough--Their reception--Mr. Merry
+takes oat second party out boys--Miss Macpherson returns to England
+and takes out a party of girls--Canadian welcome and happy homes--
+Canadian pastor's story.
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+1870-1871.
+
+Workers' meetings at Home of Industry--Training Home at Hampton
+opened--Personal experiences--Welcome in Western Canada--Help for a
+Glasgow Home--Scottish Ferryman--"Out of the mouths of babes and
+sucklings"
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+1872.
+
+The need of a Home further West--Burning of the Marchmont Home--Home
+restored by Canadian gifts--Miss Macpherson and Miss Reavell arrive
+in Canada--First visit to Knowlton in the East--Belleville Home
+restored by Canadian friends--Help for the Galt Home--Miss Macpherson
+returns to England--Miss Reavell remains at Galt
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+1872-1874.
+
+Letter from Rev. A. M. W. Christopher--Letter from Gulf of St.
+Lawrence--Mrs. Birt's sheltering Home, Liverpool--Letter to Mrs.
+Merry--Letter from Canada--Miss Macpherson's return to England--
+Letter of cheer for Dr. Barnardo--Removal to Hackney Home
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+1875-1877.
+
+Mrs. Way's sewing-class for Jewesses--Bible Flower Mission--George
+Clarke--Incidents in Home work--The Lord's Day--Diary at sea--Letters
+of cheer from Canada
+
+
+CHAPTER VII.
+
+1877-1879.
+
+"They helped every one his neighbour"--Miss Child, a fellow labourer
+--The work in Ratcliff Highway--Strangers' Rest for Sailors--"Welcome
+Home"--"Bridge of Hope"--Miss Macpherson's twenty-first voyage to
+Canada--Explosion on board the "Sardinian"--Child-life in the Galt
+Home--The Galt Home now devoted to children from London, Knowlton to
+those from Liverpool, and Marchmont to Scottish Emigrants
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+1879-1880.
+
+Experiences among Indians--Picnic in the Bush--Distribution Of
+Testaments--"Till He Come"--"A Home and a hearty Welcome"
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+Questions and Answers--Sorrowful cases--Testimonies from those who
+have visited Canada--Stewardship
+
+
+
+
+INTRODUCTION
+
+BY
+
+THE REV. JOHN MACPHERSON,
+
+_Author of "The Life of Duncan Mathieson."_
+
+
+From East London to West Canada is a change pleasing to imagine.
+From dusky lane and fetid alley to open, bright Canadian fields is,
+in the very thought, refreshing. A child is snatched from pinching
+hunger, fluttering rags, and all the squalor of gutter life; from a
+creeping existence in the noisome pool of slum society is lifted up
+into some taste for decency and cleanliness; from being trained in
+the school whose first and last lesson is to fear neither God nor
+man, is taught the beginnings of Christian faith and duty, and by a
+strong effort of love and patience is borne away to the free,
+spacious regions of the western hemisphere, of which it may be said,
+as of the King's feast, "yet there is room," and where even a hapless
+waif may get a chance and a choice both for this world and the world
+that is to come. This is a picture on which a kind heart loves to
+rest. But who shall make the picture real?
+
+Go and first catch your little Arab, if you can. I say, if you can;
+for he is too old to be caught by chaff, and you shall need as much
+guile as any fowler ever did. Then with patient hands bestow on his
+body its first baptism of clean water, a task often unspeakably
+shocking; reduce to fit size and shape a cast-off suit humbly begged
+for the occasion, and give him his first experience of decent
+clothing. Thereafter, proceed to the work, sometimes the most trying
+ever undertaken, of taming this singularly acute, desperately sly,
+and often ferociously savage little Englishman, training him to be
+what he is not, or harder task still, to be not what he is. Having,
+by dint of much pains and many prayers, obtained, as you hope, some
+beginnings of victory over the most wayward of wills, and the most
+unaccountably strange of mixed natures, with its intellectual
+sharpness and moral bluntness, its precocious knowingness and
+stereotyped childishness, its quickness to learn and slowness to
+unlearn, prepare for the next stage of your enterprise. Lay out your
+scheme of emigration, get the money where you can, that is to say,
+call it flown from heaven and wile it out of earthly pockets,
+anticipate all possible emergencies and wants by land and sea, finish
+for the time the much epistolary correspondence to which this same
+fragment of humanity has given rise, tempt the deep with your
+restless charge, bear the discomforts of the stormiest of seas, and
+inwardly groan at the signs of other and worse tempests ready ever to
+burst forth in the Atlantic of that young sinner's future course; and
+when after many weeks of anxious thought, fatiguing travel, and
+laborious inquiry you find a home for the child, fold your hands,
+give thanks and say, "What an adventure! What a toil! But now at
+length it is finished!" And yet perhaps it is not half finished.
+
+Multiply all this thought and feeling, all this labour and prayer a
+thousandfold; and imagine the work of a woman as tenderly attached to
+home and its peaceful ways as any one of her sisters in the three
+kingdoms, who has made some twenty-eight voyages across the Atlantic
+"all for love and nothing for reward;" has, by miracles of prayerful
+toil and self-denying kindness, rescued from a worse than Egyptian
+bondage over three thousand waifs and strays, borne them in her
+strong arms to the other side of the world, and planted them in a
+good land; meanwhile, in the intervals of travel, facing the perils
+and storms of the troubled sea of East London society at its very
+worst, and from a myriad wrecks of manhood and womanhood, snatching
+the stragglers not yet past all hope, and, in a holy enthusiasm of
+love, parting with not a little of her own life in order that those
+dead might live.
+
+The outer part of the story alone can be told: the inner part only
+God and the patient toiler on this field can know. Yet the inner work
+is by far the greater. The thought, the cares, the fears, the
+prayers, the tears, the anguish, the heart-breaking disappointments,
+and the fiery ordeals of spirit by which alone the motive is kept
+pure and the flame of a true zeal is fed,--in short, all the lavish
+expenditure of soul that cannot be spoken, or written, or known,
+until the Omniscient Recorder, who forgets nothing and repays even
+the good purpose of the heart, will reveal it at the final award, is
+by far the most important service as it is ever the most toilsome and
+painful.
+
+In the work of the kingdom of God on earth the true worker is in
+point of importance first. Apart from the wise, holy, beneficent
+soul, even the truth of the Gospel is but a dead letter. It is in the
+intelligence, loveliness, magnanimity and sweetness of a human
+spirit, touched finely by His own grace, that the Holy Ghost finds
+His chief instrumentality. Preparation for a good work is usually
+begun in early life, and the worker, whose story is to fill the
+following pages, unconsciously learnt her first lessons for this
+service in her father's house. There was, indeed, seemingly little to
+be learned of any rare sort in the quiet village of Campsie, where
+life passed as peacefully as the clouds sailing along the peaceful
+heavens. Almost the only break in the even tenor of those days was an
+occasional sojourn in the house of her uncle, the Rev. Dr. Edwards, a
+minister of the United Presbyterian Church in Glasgow, where that
+venerable soldier of the cross still lingers, as if halfway betwixt
+the Church militant and the Church triumphant But whether in the
+father's house or in the uncle's manse, kind and truthful speech was
+the coin current, a good example the domestic stock-in-trade, and an
+interchange of cheerful, loving service the main business. It was a
+quiet school, whose very hum was peaceful; and yet the schooling was
+thorough; things strong often grow as quietly as things feeble. The
+oak rises as silently in the forest as the lily in the garden. Strong
+characters, too, under any conditions of life, school themselves much
+more than they are schooled. Active, inquisitive, resolute, and
+possessing a fair share of the national _perfervidum ingenium_,
+not without some tincture of those elements of the Scottish character
+known as the "canny" and the "dour," our worker early developed that
+robust vigour of mind and body which has so long stood the wear and
+tear of severely trying work.
+
+One passage of significance in the family history deserves notice,
+especially as suggesting a peculiar feature in her early training and
+supplying a link in the chain of providential events. In work among
+the young her father was an enthusiast. With a heart bigger than her
+own family circle, her mother took in two orphans to foster and rear.
+Thus in the work of caring for the outcast and the forlorn Annie
+Macpherson was "to the manner born." Inheriting her father's
+enthusiasm and her mother's sympathetic nature, the quick-witted,
+warm-hearted girl would not fail to note the equal footing enjoyed by
+the stranger children, and would know the reason why: the much tact
+employed to keep the new and difficult relations sweet would engage
+her attention; and the exceeding tenderness with which the motherless
+little ones were treated, would be a very practical Gospel to our
+young scholar in Christian philanthropy. Were matters sometimes
+strained? did little jars arise and a shadow now and then gather on
+the faces of the strangers because their own mother was not? The wise
+foster-mother would set all right again by some merry quip, some
+gleesome turn, some one of those playful gleams of humour which
+furnish a key to the secret of successful work among the young. To be
+a mother to those orphans, to make life in its duties and joys, as
+far as possible, the same to them as if they had not lost their own
+mother, ay, and to teach them to gather the brightest roses from the
+thorniest bushes, was at once a good work in itself, and a model for
+one who was destined to similar service, only on an immensely wider
+scale and on a tenfold more difficult field. The sisterly fostering
+of the orphans was a providential training for her future life-work.
+To learn to love and to serve over and above the claims of mere
+natural affection, could not fail to enlarge the heart and awaken the
+sympathies of a quick, susceptible child. Little did her mother know
+what she was doing when she took the orphans to her bosom. She only
+thought to make a warm home and a bright future for the hapless pair;
+but in effect she was preparing a warm home and a bright future for
+thousands of the poorest children on God's earth.
+
+But there was something better in store. Girlish days swept by much
+as usual--the rapid growth of warm thought and feeling making each
+revolving year a continuous springtide, an opening summer. At
+nineteen, Annie Macpherson looked out on a world that always promises
+more to youthful eyes than it ever fulfils. Eager hope was drawing
+much on a future whose furthest horizon was Time. Suddenly a shadow
+fell. A word spoken by a friend was the vehicle of a divine message.
+A more distant and awful horizon arose to view: Time with its hopes
+and joys, like a thin mist in early morning, vanished in the light of
+eternity; and quickly from that young heart, pierced with a new
+sorrow, went up the prayer, "God be merciful to me a sinner!"
+
+How little the world understands that same old prayer. Yonder afar
+off stands a man who, having trafficked in all iniquity, having
+matured in wickedness, and perfected himself in the fine art of
+dodging truth and conscience, is at length found out in the thicket
+of his own vices by a bull's eye that glares on him like hell. Well
+it befits such an one, even the world admits, to smite upon his
+breast and cry for mercy. But for a girl in her teens, an innocent,
+merry-hearted, pure-minded young thing, to raise a cry for mercy like
+a very publican or a prodigal, is confounding to the world's sense of
+propriety and measure in things; and hence that world is angry, and
+in effect repudiates the need of so much mercy, of so much abasement
+and urgency in a case like this. The root and rise of this cry for
+mercy the natural man does not understand; but that soul knows it
+right well, where the lightnings of Omniscient Holiness have gleamed
+and the shadows of God's anger have fallen.
+
+The cry was heard. Light arose on that troubled soul, the Saviour
+appeared and drew the sinking one out of the waters. Even where there
+is little to be changed outwardly, conversion is always followed by
+remarkable effects; the light of the morning is like a new creation
+on the cultivated field as well as on the barren moor. Our young
+convert saw everything in a new light. She understood now, as she had
+not before, why her mother, stealing precious hours from sleep,
+wearied her fingers and weakened her eyes with the self-imposed task
+of providing for the necessities of children not her own. If a ruling
+motive is one of the greatest things in the secret of a human life,
+the grandest of all forces on earth is the love of Christ. This she
+felt, and it was to her a divine revelation. From the feeble
+starlight of natural sympathies she had passed into the clear day of
+Christian affections, and she now knew the secret joy and power of
+self-sacrifice. A hundred lessons and practical illustrations given
+her by both her parents were suddenly lighted up with a new meaning,
+and clothed with a beauty she had not heretofore seen, and a power
+she had not hitherto felt. All she had learned before of truth, and
+prudence, and kindness, she learned over again, and learned with the
+quickness characteristic of the young convert. Very soon her whole
+treasury of knowledge and feeling, of experience and character, was
+laid with youthful jubilance on the altar of the Lord. From that hour
+she began to work for Christ with an intensity of enthusiasm that
+ever since has known no abatement.
+
+
+
+
+GOD'S ANSWERS.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER I.
+
+1861-1869.
+
+Prayer of Hon. and Rev. Baptist Noel--Residence in Cambridgeshire--
+Visit to London in 1861, and first attendance at Barnet Conferences--
+Visit of Rev. W. and Mrs. Pennefather--East of London, 1861--Left
+Cambridgeshire, 1865--Work in Bedford Institute--1866: Voyage to New
+York and return, 1867--First girl rescued--Matchbox makers--First boy
+rescued--Revival Refuge open for boys and girls--1868: Home of
+Industry secured--1869: Opened.
+
+
+The winter of 1860-61 is a time to be had much in remembrance before
+the Lord. It was then that the East of London, with all its sins and
+sorrows, was laid as a heavy, burden on the heart of His faithful and
+beloved servant Reginald Radcliffe.
+
+Before the commencement of his labours, a few Christian friends met
+for prayer at the invitation of the Hon. and Rev. Baptist Noel. The
+East of London, and its "stunning-tide of human care and crime," was
+not the only thought of that revered man of God. His faith looked
+forward to greater things, and one well-remembered petition was, that
+blessing through the work then to be begun in that deeply degraded
+and neglected region, might not be stayed there, but might flow from
+thence to far-off lands. One then present, the Dowager Lady Rowley,
+was not long permitted to sow precious seed with her own hand, but
+was instrumental in the fulfilment of this petition, as it was
+through her leading that Miss Macpherson's voice was first heard in
+the East of London.
+
+At that time Miss Macpherson was residing in the neighbourhood of
+Cambridge with her sister and brother-in-law, Mr. Merry, and, was
+already a worker in the Lord's vineyard.
+
+She thus writes of the year 1861:--
+
+"It was a turning point in my life. I made a pilgrimage to London to
+attend the preaching of Reginald Radcliffe in the City of London
+Theatre, Shoreditch. There I met Dr. Elwin. On the following evening,
+at the Young Men's Christian Association, Great Marlborough Street,
+he introduced me to Lady Rowley, Mr. Morgan, and many other Christian
+friends. Through them I was led to attend the next Barnet Conference,
+where I learned what it was to wait for the coming of the Lord."
+
+With this bright and blessed hope she returned to work with a
+strength and power before unknown. Many souls had already been
+awakened, but the full tide of blessing had not yet come. In the
+villages around her hundreds of labourers were employed in digging
+for coprolites, a fossil which, when ground, is useful as manure.
+Among these men were many of the wildest wanderers, and Miss
+Macpherson's heart was deeply stirred for their spiritual welfare,
+and her time and strength were given to reach them by every means in
+her power. She had established evening schools, lending libraries and
+coffee-sheds, and of these and further efforts she wrote:--
+
+"Second to the preaching of the gospel, we lay every laudable snare
+to induce men to learn to read and write. In doing this, spare time
+is occupied to the best account, and the enemy is foiled in some of
+his thousand-and-one ways of ensnaring the toil-worn navvy at the
+close of day.
+
+"The more our little band goes forward, the more we feel that drink,
+in all its forms and foolish customs, must be resisted,--first, by
+the powerful influence of a felt example; and secondly, by gently and
+kindly instructing the minds of those amongst whom we labour as to
+its hurtful snares. We are accused by some of putting this subject
+before the blessed gospel. God forbid! But when we look on every
+reclaimed one and know that this was his besetting sin, we regard the
+giving it up as the rolling away of the stone before the Saviour's
+voice, 'Come forth,' can be obeyed.
+
+"These first endeavours to spread the gospel story in a more
+enlarged way were made in villages where the Rev. C. H. Spurgeon had
+laboured when not yet twenty years of age, and where souls had been
+blessed through the youthful preacher. Some of these converts became
+my helpers, and are co-workers to this day.
+
+"It was in 1863 that I first became an almoner for others, whilst
+filled with a desire to build a missionhall among the coprolite
+diggers in Cambridgeshire.
+
+"The friends attending the Barnet Conference heard of my wish and
+shared my burden."
+
+The following letter to Dr. Elwin shows the sympathy that he felt in
+her work:--
+
+"My DEAR FRIEND,--Thanking you for your daily remembrance of my
+continual wants in this the Lord's work among these poor migratory
+coprolite diggers, I must say it was indeed refreshing to think that
+this little hidden vineyard was laid on your heart to present to the
+Lord at the Bristol Conference. The answer has come, and now it is my
+blessed privilege to ask you to rejoice and praise our loving Father
+for another six souls born anew. Yes, dear brother, they are those I
+have laid before you again and again to plead for, that the dead form
+of godliness might be broken down. Though diggers, they are residents
+in a neighbouring village, and have attended my ploughmen's Bible-class
+for some years. From the mouths of many witnesses, in a series
+of outdoor gatherings every Lord's day evening in the past summer,
+they have heard, on their own village green, a present, free, and
+full salvation.
+
+"Is it not kind of the Master to employ us feeble women in His
+service, by allowing us to use our quiet influence for Him, and to do
+many little things, such as inviting wanderers to listen, providing
+hymns and seats, also refreshment for those sent to deliver the
+King's message? And oh! it is indeed a hallowed privilege to be a
+'Hur,' to hold up the hands of the speaker, and watch the index of
+the soul as the message of love or of warning falls; to slip in and
+out of the group, and meet the trembling soul with a blessed promise,
+or grasp the hand with Christian sympathy. Then for us women such
+service affords opportunity of giving the little leaflet or book,
+such as the case requires, and following it up in the home with Bible
+in hand.
+
+"The Lord was very good in sending me helpers, _i.e._, brothers,
+to speak during all those summer Lord's-Day evenings. On one occasion
+I was left alone, and yet not alone. At another time my faith was
+tried. No one had come to speak. The people had gathered. I opened my
+Testament on the passage, 'Come and see' (John iv.) If the Samaritan
+woman was led so boldly to say to wicked men, 'Come and see,' surely
+my Lord knew my burden, and my need for a brother to speak to that
+village gathering. We sang a hymn. I was led to pray. On arising from
+the grass, a young man came round the corner and said, 'Miss, the Lord
+has laid it on my heart to come here and preach to-night. Can I be of
+any service?' He took for his text, 'Yet there is room.'
+
+"I know you like to trace the links in the chain of blessing, so I
+will enter a little into detail. One village displayed the most
+perfect outward form of all that is considered correct as to the
+using of means. There were clubs, saving of money, young men well
+dressed and regular at their place of worship, four nights a week at
+their evening school; but oh! my friend, not one soul of them with a
+warm heart towards the Lord Jesus Christ. They read and answered my
+questions on Scripture better, and sought after the library books
+with more interest, than any in the other villages; but it was all
+head-work, no heart; all intellect, no love. On Christmas Day six of
+these joined our coprolite party to tea, and from eight to ten solemn
+prayer seemed laid on every heart for them; and again the following
+evening nineteen young men met to pray still for this village. Last
+evening eighteen Christians of various denominations met in a cottage
+at this said village. There was no formal address, but after earnest
+prayer, one of the brethren felt this passage laid solemnly on his
+heart, 'To-day, if ye will hear His voice, harden not your hearts.'
+Then some converted stone-diggers pleaded for a blessing. The answer
+of four years' prayers came, and the feeble infant wail was heard
+from one after another amid weeping and sobbing. Surely the angelic
+host had songs of praise while, in that holy stillness, these young
+men had a sight of themselves. Oh, pray on that our faith waver not,
+for we believe we shall see still greater things.
+
+"You remember the village where you preached upon 'Jesus passing
+by.' There is now a band of more than a dozen praying young men
+meeting constantly in their little outhouse.
+
+"The more we go forward in this labour of love the more evident it
+is that the cursed drink is our great difficulty. This stone must be
+rolled away. Another evening home for these men is a stern necessity,
+and must be provided; a place which they may call their own. Each
+building would cost 30 pounds. The men would furnish it cheerfully and
+support it nobly. Two such buildings have been erected, are now in
+operation, and answer beyond my most sanguine expectations. Morning,
+noon, and evening, groups of men, while at their hasty meals, are
+willing to listen to the Holy Scriptures or whatever else may be
+brought before them."
+
+"The memory of the just is blessed." It is sweet to recall any
+incident in the life of him who will ever live in the hearts of many.
+Miss Macpherson thus records the day of blessing:--
+
+"It was at a meeting in July 1864, at Mildmay Park, that it was laid
+on my heart to gather together, before the harvest-time, the
+stone-diggers, villagers, and their friends, and to invite the Rev. W.
+and Mrs. Pennefather to see face to face the hundreds of souls for
+whom they had wrestled with God. Early in the afternoon of the day
+appointed, streams of poor men and women came, having walked distances
+of from two to ten miles to be with us. Conveyances brought earnest
+lively Christians from Cambridge, and, including the stone-diggers,
+there were representatives from more than thirty towns and villages.
+On the arrival of Mr. and Mrs. Pennefather, great was our joy; and who
+of you cannot imagine our beloved friend in the midst of this
+multitude, of warm hearts, as with tears in his eyes he exclaimed,
+'This is another conference'? Gatherings on the grass were formed as
+tables were insufficient, and our dear friend went in and out among
+them, every feature showing forth the love with which God had filled
+his heart. His loving eye alone discovered poor Tom, lately out of the
+workhouse, standing trembling, and afraid to approach the party;
+behind the tent tears of joy streamed after he had secured, amid the
+rush for tea, a supply for the wants of this poor Tom. A lovely sunset
+was shedding its radiance over the humble gathering, when Mr.
+Pennefather rose and spoke to them of 'the coming glory,' first
+reading Luke ix. 25-35; and knowing that many before him would as
+Christians be called upon to endure ridicule from ungodly companions,
+he pointed out to them that in all the Gospels which speak of the
+Transfiguration, the event is preceded by an account of the
+Christian's path of self-denial. After an earnest address to the
+unsaved, this delightful gathering was closed by his telling them that
+a little offering had been made at Mildmay Park, and that, by the help
+of that money would now be presented to each man and woman,
+(stone-diggers and boys included), a pocket Testament, to be used in
+the intervals of harvest toil.
+
+"Many are their struggles in resisting bad companionship and drink,
+in trying to improve in reading, in seeking to clothe themselves, to
+help their parents, to work for Jesus with little light, and less
+time, and few talents. Oh, how much do they glorify God compared with
+some in other circumstances, who have been surrounded by heaven-breathing
+associations all their days! Well, indeed, can we understand that
+verse, 'The first shall be last, and the last first.'"
+
+Scenes of a different character must now be described.
+
+Sad and deeply humiliating as the sights and sounds of the East End
+of London still are, none who now visit the vast region lying
+eastward of St. Paul's can realise the sense of desolation that
+overpowered one's spirit when beholding it at the time Mr. Radcliffe
+began his services in 1860-1861. At that time the condition of the
+millions who existed there was ignored by those dwelling in more
+favoured regions. No railways had been as yet constructed by which
+visitors could come from the north and west. The space now occupied
+by the great railway stations in Broad Street and Liverpool Street
+was then crowded with unwholesome dwellings, well remembered for
+deaths in every house. No centres of usefulness where Christian
+workers could meet for prayer or counsel then existed. The Bedford
+Institute had not then been built, and no Temperance Coffee-Palace
+had even been heard of.
+
+The power of the Lord had been very present to wound and to heal in
+the City of London Theatre and at other services held by Mr.
+Radcliffe, and the young women who had been blessed were invited to
+meet for a week-evening Bible-reading and prayer-meeting, and for
+this purpose Lady Rowley rented a room in Wellclose Square. In this
+meeting, and in Lady Rowley's mothers' meeting in Worship Street,
+Miss Macpherson began the ministry of love which has extended so
+widely. She afterwards visited the homes of the poor, and the toil
+and suffering she witnessed, especially in those where matchbox-making
+was the means of livelihood, lay heavy on her heart. With _her_
+feelings of pity were always quickly followed by practical effort. In
+the midst of the winter's distress, one of the most cheering gifts
+received was from her praying band of coprolite diggers. After a
+watchnight service, they had spent the first moments of the
+consecrated new year in making a gathering from their hard-earned
+wages. Miss Macpherson had placed the East of London foremost in the
+list of subjects to be remembered at their prayer-union every Lord's
+Day. Little did the praying band think that in fulfilling this
+petition, the Lord would take their beloved leader from among them.
+
+It was in 1865 that Miss Macpherson was guided of the Lord to leave
+scenes endeared to her by many hallowed associations, and to
+encounter the trials and seek the blessings of Christian work in the
+East of London. Her first efforts were in answer to an invitation
+from the Society of Friends to hold classes for young men, both on
+the Lord's Day and on week evenings, at the Bedford Institute, a
+building lately erected by that Society, and which stood out
+conspicuously as a monument of Christian love. On the week evenings,
+instruction in reading and writing was the inducement held out to
+attend. The first fruits may be seen in G. C., once a violent
+opposer, afterwards a valuable helper in Canada, and now a preacher
+of the Gospel in China. The work at the Bedford attracted so much
+interest, that many helpers were drawn to it from other parts. The
+Sunday Bible-classes became an object of remarkable interest. Perhaps
+such an assemblage has seldom been seen. Many tables were filled in
+one hall with men, in another with women, many of whom were very
+aged, all with large-print Bibles before them, and each table headed
+by some earnest teacher, all at the close being gathered together for
+the final address.
+
+Other Gospel meetings were also held at the Bedford, but Miss
+Macpherson's labours could not be confined to this spot. In several
+little rooms poor Christian women were gathered for prayer, and
+depots for tracts were established, and Scripture texts placed in the
+windows, in streets which were never so lighted before. But these and
+all other efforts for the poor East End were interrupted in the
+autumn of 1866. She felt the Lord called her to accompany her sister
+and brother-in-law, Mr. Merry, with their young family across the
+Atlantic. Mr. Merry's object was to settle his four sons in the
+Western States of America. The voyage proved most perilous and
+stormy. On arrival in New York, Mr. Merry's health entirely broke
+down, and the medical opinion given was that nothing would restore
+him but return to his native land. In March 1867 they were welcomed
+back with exceeding joy. How mysterious did this trial appear! Why
+were those who had sought the Lord's counsel so earnestly, permitted
+to undertake a voyage apparently so useless, and accompanied by so
+much anxiety and suffering? How little could any one then conjecture
+that the Lord was thus training His children for the great life-work
+before them! Not for the welfare of their own family were Mr. and
+Mrs. Merry to be permitted to settle in those broad western lands;
+but many voyages were to follow, and they, and subsequently their
+children also, were to be fellow-helpers in the glorious work of
+finding homes on earth, and training for a heavenly Home, thousands
+of children who would have been otherwise homeless and uncared for.
+"What I do, thou knowest not now, but thou shalt know hereafter."
+Blessed hereafter! when we shall see _all_ the way the Lord our
+God has led us; not a smooth way, not an easy way. "The soul of the
+people was much discouraged because of the way;" "but the Lord led
+them by _the right way_."
+
+With her usual energy, Miss Macpherson again entered on her God-given
+work among the poor of the East End, and at once resolved to do all in
+her power to help the destitute children with whom she came in daily
+contact.
+
+In the very month of her return, the first girl was rescued and
+received into her own Home, then at Canonbury. Her story was thus
+written at the time:--"E. C., aged sixteen, was sent to my lodgings
+to know if I could provide a home for her. In August 1866 the father
+of this poor girl had bidden her farewell as she was leaving home on
+an excursion with the Sunday-school to which she belonged. On her
+return, cholera had numbered him among the dead. The mother threw
+herself into the canal, and, though restored, was lying helpless in a
+workhouse. E. C., who had before been learning dressmaking, was
+tossed about from one poor place of service to another--her clothes
+all pawned, or in tatters--till her last resting-place was on the
+flags. Then she applied at the Rev. W. Pennefather's soup-kitchen in
+Bethnal Green, and slept in the room at that time rented above it.
+The two following days were occupied in vain endeavours to procure
+admittance into one of the existing Homes for girls, the third, in
+preparing clothing for her, while, at the same time, _no way_
+appeared open for her to be received anywhere. When her clothing was
+ready, our first visit was to a sufferer paralysed and convulsed in
+every limb, at times compelled to be fastened to his bed,--one whose
+garret reminded one of the dream of Jacob; for answers to prayer were
+so direct, it seemed as though heavenly visitants were ever ascending
+and descending. He prayed, and while he was yet speaking, the Lord
+sent His 'answering messenger.' Miss Macpherson had felt it laid on
+her that day to come to the East End to my help, though knowing
+nothing whatever of the present need. When poor E. C. returned from
+the baths and washhouses in her clean clothing, (having sold her
+former rags for twopence-halfpenny), she was met by the loving offer
+of a home. She seemed afraid to believe it, and followed, as if in a
+dream, the friend so mercifully raised up for her. She was afterwards
+placed in service with a Christian friend, and her two little
+brothers were among the first inmates of the Revival Refuge."
+
+Most mercifully for the poor little matchbox-makers was Miss
+Macpherson's return ordered at this time. Much sympathy had been
+awakened concerning them, and much help had been sent for their
+benefit from the kind readers of the "Christian" paper. They numbered
+many hundreds, and Miss Macpherson undertook care and responsibility
+concerning them, for which the strength and powers of an older
+labourer were totally unfit. In this, and countless other instances,
+Miss Macpherson has proved herself ever ready to "fulfil the law of
+Christ" (Gal. vi. 2). The case of these infant toilers had rested on
+her heart from the first moment she had been made acquainted with
+their sufferings. The first sight of them is thus described by her
+own pen:--
+
+"In a narrow lane, having followed high up a tottering spiral
+staircase till we reached the attic, the first group of tiny,
+palefaced matchbox-makers was met with. They were hired by the woman
+who rented the room. The children received just three farthings for
+making a gross of boxes; the wood and paper were furnished to the
+woman, but she had to provide paste and the firing to dry the work.
+She received twopence-halfpenny per gross. Every possible spot, on
+the bed, under the bed, was strewn with the drying boxes. A loaf of
+bread and a knife stood on the table, ready for these little ones to
+be supplied with a slice in exchange of their hard-earned farthings.
+
+"This touching scene, which my pen fails to picture, gave me a
+lasting impression of childhood's sorrows. Never a moment for school
+or play, but ceaseless toil from light till dark."
+
+Miss Macpherson's first attempt for their benefit was to open
+evening schools, the inducement to attend which was the gift of sadly
+needed clothing. These schools were opened in various localities, the
+chief gathering being held in a house kindly provided for us by
+Charles Dobbin, Esq., still one of our unwearied benefactors.
+
+Not only reading, but the art of mending their tattered garments was
+a new thing to them, and their outward condition was such, that when
+for the first time a country excursion was planned for them, it was
+with the greatest difficulty they were made fit to appear.
+
+Whilst making every exertion to raise the matchbox-makers from their
+hitherto almost helpless state, her heart yearned over their
+brothers. A tea-meeting was given for boys by the veteran labourer
+George Holland, at the close of which one lad was noticed so much to
+be pitied, that it was felt, if nothing could be done for the others,
+he at least must be saved.
+
+Money was not plentiful, the need of the East End was then
+comparatively little known, but a young believer, the son of that
+honoured servant of the Lord, W. Greene of Minorca, had just set
+apart a portion of his salary to help some poor, London boy, and the
+letter telling this was on its way from the Mediterranean when this
+lad's history became known. Thus he was educated, and eventually
+raised to a position in which he became a helper of others.
+
+Many other homeless boys were found among that evening's guests, and
+Miss Macpherson felt it was impossible permanently to raise their
+condition without receiving them into a Home, where they could be
+taught and trained to regular work. The Lord gave the desire, and
+through the active sympathy of E. C. Morgan, the editor of the
+"Christian," the means were provided. A house was found at Hackney,
+and named the Revival Refuge, where thirty boys could be at once
+received. A few weeks afterwards, looking at these bright,
+intelligent young faces, it was difficult to believe in the dark
+surroundings of their earlier years. So great was the encouragement
+in caring for them, spiritually as well as physically, that Miss
+Macpherson could not rest without enlarging the work, and a
+dilapidated dwelling at the back of Shoreditch Church "was fitted up
+to receive thirty more boys."
+
+In the house first mentioned, besides the matchbox-makers' evening
+schools, mothers' meetings and a sewing class for widows were
+conducted by Mrs. Merry, and the upper storey was devoted to the
+shelter of destitute little girls. But in these, as in all Miss
+Macpherson's undertakings, the Lord blessed her so greatly that more
+accommodation was required for the constantly increasing numbers.
+
+The needed building was provided in a way that could have been
+little conjectured, but the Lord had gone before. Along the great
+thoroughfare leading from the Docks to the Great Eastern Railway,
+lofty warehouses had taken the place of many unclean, tottering
+dwellings formerly seen there. During the fearful visitation of
+cholera in 1866 one of these had been secured as a hospital by Miss
+Sellon's Sisters of Mercy, and water and gas had been laid-on on
+every floor, and every arrangement made for convenience and
+cleanliness. When the desolating scourge was withdrawn the house was
+closed, and many predicted that it would never be used again. In the
+following year Mr. Holland suggested how well it would be to secure
+it for a Refuge. The doors had been closed twelve months when Mr. and
+Mrs. Merry and three other friends entered the long-deserted
+dwelling, and joined in prayer that where death had been seen in all
+its terrors, there souls might be born to God, and that the voice of
+praise and prayer might be heard within those walls which had once
+resounded with the groans of the dying. Then the doors were locked,
+and for twelve months more remained as before. Then they were again
+opened, and on a gloomy winter's evening, with one candle the vast
+unlighted dwelling was again entered. The little company included R.
+C. Morgan, Charles Dobbin, and Henry Blair, of the Madras Civil
+Service, whose interest in the work now begun, only ended with his
+death. Through the kindness of these friends the building was
+secured, and the rent promised, but then a new difficulty arose. It
+had been hoped that Mr. Holland, who had first suggested the effort
+to secure the building, would have been willing to undertake the
+charge, but the work at George Yard was too dear to be given up. And
+now, who would bear this burden? It could hardly be believed that any
+woman would undertake the responsibility, for women had not then been
+called forward in this country so prominently as they now are. Here
+may be seen something of the Lord's purpose in having permitted Miss
+Macpherson's voyage to New York. In that city she had seen the faith
+and courage the Lord had given to women to "attempt great things"
+_for Him_, and the day is well remembered when many prayers were
+answered that she would accept the post. It is a post far advanced
+into the enemy's territory, for the adjoining streets are known as
+the "Thieves' Quarter." Three thousand, it is supposed, have their
+headquarters here. In the square mile in the midst of which the
+Refuge, (now called "Home of Industry"), is situated, 120,000 of our
+poorest population are to be found. From the first Mr. and Mrs. Merry
+gave themselves as willing and invaluable helpers to the enormous
+work connected with the undertaking. It appeared great from the
+beginning, but little could any one have imagined how it would go on
+spreading and increasing. It is difficult, or it may be impossible,
+to name any form of distress or any class which has not been here
+relieved and blessed. Every hour of the day, and even far on into the
+night, the voice of praise and prayer has been heard in some part of
+the building. Even in the vaults beneath the pavement was a little
+sanctuary made. Under the very stones, before trodden by them as
+homeless wanderers, some have joined in asking the Lord's blessing on
+those who had rescued them.
+
+In February, 1869, the Lord granted us the desire of our hearts, and
+the Home of Industry was opened with praise and prayer. "The Lord had
+done great things for us," but far more than any heart then,
+conceived were the blessings yet in store.
+
+On February 22, Miss Macpherson wrote as follows in the "Christian":--
+
+"BELOVED HELPERS,--To-night how your hearts would have rejoiced to
+have seen me and my happy hundreds of little toiling children in our
+new schoolroom in the Refuge. How varied their feelings! One
+whispered, 'It was here my mother died of the cholera.' Another, 'Oh!
+I was once in this ward before, so ill of black cholera.' Dear
+children! our prayer was that it might still be a house of mercy to
+many a sin-wearied soul. We have never had such a large schoolroom
+before, nor the advantage of desks. Their joy knew no bounds when
+told to invite their mothers to come one afternoon in the week to
+help me to sew and to earn sixpence, my object being twofold,--to
+secure an opportunity of telling them the gospel, and to endeavour to
+help them in the management of their homes and little ones."
+
+The following will show something of the trials attending "holding
+the fort" in such a spot:--
+
+"Last night I felt it right to sleep at the Refuge for once, so as
+to be able to enter into all its needs. No words can describe the
+sounds in the streets surrounding it throughout the night;--yells of
+women, cries of 'Murder!' then of 'Police!'--with the rushing to and
+fro of wild, drunken men and women into the street adjoining the
+building, whence more criminals come than from any other street in
+London. At three o'clock the heavy rumble of market-waggons
+commenced, and then the rush of the fire-brigade. Thus much by way of
+asking special prayer for those whom God has made willing to live in
+the midst of such surroundings. On the other side of the building is
+an empty space, known as 'Rag Fair,' filled in the morning with a
+horde of the poorest women selling the veriest old rubbish. We are
+thankful to have among these a faithful Christian woman, who, though
+a seller of rags, is able to testify of the great love of the Lord
+Jesus."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER II.
+
+1869-1870.
+
+Emigration of families--A visitor's impressions--The great life-work
+--Emigration of the young, begun 1870--First party of boys to Canada
+with Miss Macpherson and Miss Bilbrough--Their reception--Mr. Merry
+takes second party of boys--Miss Macpherson returns to England and
+takes out a party of girls--Canadian welcome and happy homes--
+Canadian pastor's story.
+
+
+Emigration had now for some time been in view as the only means of
+relieving the chronic poverty of the East of London, and in April
+1869 a circular to this effect was issued by Miss Macpherson and Miss
+Ellen Logan. Fifty families were selected as being suitable for such
+help, and these were gathered together at a farewell tea-meeting
+before leaving for Canada, all expressing deep thankfulness for the
+opening given to them. The preparations for the voyage of these
+fathers, mothers, and little ones required much thought and labour,
+both for their temporal and spiritual welfare, but from the very
+beginning of the work, sisters in Christ came from a distance, giving
+hours or days as a labour of love, and besides personal help on the
+spot, many busy fingers were at work in their own homes. The first
+party was followed by others, all involving much care and labour.
+Before the close of the year very encouraging accounts were received
+from many of the travellers, and the contrast was great between their
+condition in the new country and that which might here have been
+their lot. Whilst this important work was being carried on, evening
+reading and sewing classes for the little matchbox-makers, and
+mothers' meetings, were continued without intermission, together with
+the teaching and training of boys begun at the first Homes; and on
+the Lord's Day, besides the very large gathering of matchbox-makers,
+every effort was made to bring all around under the sound of the
+gospel. A stranger thus describes his impressions after a visit to
+the Home of Industry, November, 1869:--
+
+"'The mighty cry of anguish' that has gone up for so long from the
+East of London has, thank God, touched many a heart, and led some to
+carry God's answering messages in person to the suffering poor, and
+others to help in the lesser service of gifts.
+
+"Determined to see how the matter stood as regards one portion of
+that great mass of misery, I gave myself up to the skilful guidance
+of one whose whole life is spent in the service of God and His poor.
+
+"Leaving the rail, we proceeded to visit the sick-bed of one of the
+voluntary workers in the Refuge. We found him recovering from a
+severe attack of enteric fever complicated with pneumonia of the
+right lung. A fine, handsome young man, once the leader of the
+singing in a philharmonic club, now the devoted servant of God, his
+whole anxiety seemed to be as to when he could return to his work.
+During our visit, it was most touching to see the tenderness and
+anxious care of his companion, a young man called Fred, a labourer in
+the large wine vaults at the docks, who, though smelling of wine, and
+his clothes saturated with the fumes of spirits, was a staunch
+teetotaller; and judging from the intelligent way in which he
+answered our questions, would be a valuable witness before any
+commission of inquiry into the practices which wine-sellers term
+'mixing,' but which he vulgarly called 'adulteration.' Every night
+during the many weeks of illness Fred had paid his friend a visit,
+and watched over him with all the love of a Jonathan to a David.
+
+"We now pressed him into our service to conduct us through some of
+the many licensed lodging-houses and thieves' kitchens, which abound
+in the neighbourhood of Spitalfields.
+
+"On our way we met two little girls, matchbox-makers. The outline of
+their lives was given in a few moments. The father, a drunkard, had
+absconded six years ago, leaving his wife and six children to
+struggle with awful poverty as best they might, having previously so
+beaten and kicked his wife about the face, that she had become almost
+blind. 'Where's father now?' 'In the workhouse, stoneblind.'
+
+"In a room with a roaring fire were seated some thirty men and a few
+women with infants. The landlord's reception was anything but
+gracious. In answer to our 'Good evening,' he growled out, 'We don't
+want talk; those men want bread.' And hungry enough many seemed. So
+while one was sent for a supply of bread, which was received with
+unmistakable gladness, and devoured greedily, we spoke to them of
+that living bread which came down from heaven. All were interested,
+and one young man seemed to wince and to be ill at ease when the love
+of God was spoken of. I could not but feel that conscience was at
+work, perhaps memory carrying back his mind to a godly mother, who
+once had spoken the same loving words, but had gone to her rest in
+tears.
+
+"We then entered a licensed lodging-house accommodating 350. This
+was a sad sight, because three-fourths of the men were unemployed
+poor, chiefly dock-labourers, willing and glad to work, if work could
+be got. On many a face there were stamped hopelessness and apathy.
+Two poor fellows were sipping a cup of tea, without milk or sugar,
+given to them by a poor man, but they had not a morsel of bread; and
+this was their breakfast,--a late one truly, for it was ten at night.
+Out all day in search of work, their last coppers were paid for the
+night's lodging, and a cup of poor tea was their only meal. It made
+one's spirit groan to think of the misery that sin and selfishness
+had wrought for these poor fellows.
+
+"In the next house the inmates were mostly thieves. But here is one
+poor fellow, a workman, but with no work; he has been out in the
+streets three nights, and now one of his companions pleads with us
+for three-pence to procure him a night's rest. We peeped into several
+other such dwellings, but the same story was repeated in each. In all
+we were struck with the kind reception we met with, evidently due in
+part to the presence of our companion, who, although a lady, feels
+called of God to labour among these dens of misery, where there is so
+much to do and _so few to do it_, and to the fact that we lent a
+kindly ear to their tale of distress, and did what lay in our power
+to relieve the immediate pressure of the very destitute. But, above
+all, we were thankful to meet with such a spirit of hearing, and a
+ready attention when Jesus was lifted up as the Saviour of sinners.
+
+"We now entered a court to visit a poor woman whose husband had died
+suddenly the week before. It was between nine and ten, and we found
+the widow had been washing, the clothes hanging from lines in the
+room. Her two children, aged nine and eleven, were busily employed in
+matchbox-making.
+
+"The rapidity and neatness of these little human machines were truly
+most remarkable; the number of boxes made in a day, from half-past
+six in the morning to ten at night, was something fabulous. The floor
+of the room was covered with boxes; they earned a shilling each a
+day; often days passed when they were unable to get work to do. Poor
+children! thin and wan-looking, life seemed a terribly serious thing
+to them, their days spent in incessant toil when work was plentiful,
+their nights--well, they had a bedstead with a bundle of dirty rags
+for a bed, but not a stitch of bedclothes; the clothes the children
+wore were their only covering at night.
+
+"In another court we found a silk-weaver hard at work,--from eight
+in the morning to eleven at night. This man, a Christian, had
+formerly been a weaver of velvet, but finding that a living could not
+in any way be made out of it, in an evil hour he was tempted to go
+into a skittle-alley as a helper. Here, though receiving good wages,
+he found he could not be happy,--could not 'abide with God;' so he
+gave it up, and now he is earning barely tenpence a day; but hard as
+his lot is, he is happy in the consciousness of doing right, and
+still manages to spare a little time to take his reading-lesson from
+the Bible, and to tend a flowering-plant, his only companion, which
+representative of the vegetable world seems to have nearly as hard a
+struggle to live as its master.
+
+"Our next visit was to a poor old woman between sixty and seventy
+years of age, surrounded with every discomfort, and troubled with
+constant cough and weakness. Apparently she had only a few days to
+live, but she was able to rejoice in Jesus as her Saviour, whose
+presence even then made all things bright.
+
+"The next visit was to a poor dying girl; in a room so small that
+there was only a margin of about three feet round two sides of the
+bed for standing ground, the floor covered with rags, (her mother
+being a rag-mender), lay one, who, though poor and miserable, was yet
+an heir of glory, and was upheld in all her wretchedness by Him who
+was sent to be 'the Comforter.' We thanked God for these two bright
+spots, where divine light and love were seen and felt.
+
+"At the Home of Industry we had been invited to take tea with two
+hundred and fifty destitute widows. The testimony of one of these, a
+clean, tidy old woman, was very precious. She had once been in
+affluent circumstances and drove her carriage; her fortune lost in
+one day, she was now reduced to poverty, but, 'Sir,' she said, 'I
+would not go back to it all and be as I then was; no, not for all the
+world.' Possessing Christ as her own, she felt she had the riches of
+God, and knew that there was an inheritance reserved for her in
+heaven, incorruptible, and undefiled, and that fadeth not away."
+
+The great lifework of Miss Macpherson and her devoted family may be
+said to have begun this year. The need of emigration may be expressed
+in her own words:--
+
+"Boys came to us for shelter instead of going to empty barrels,
+railway arches, and stairways. We found they were grateful for all
+that was done for them. The simple gospel lesson was our lever to
+lift them into new thoughts and desires. The sharp dividing knife of
+the Word of God would discover the thief and liar, and rouse the
+conscience to confession more than anything beside. But our walls had
+limits, and our failures in finding employment for many away from
+their old haunts became a great difficulty, and the God-opened way of
+emigration to Canada was pressed upon us."
+
+"Thy God hath commanded thy strength." To the astonishment of many,
+Miss Macpherson expressed her determination to pioneer the first
+band, and He Who of old sent forth His disciples two and two, was
+mindful of the present need, and so strengthened the heart of a young
+sister (already deeply interested in the work, and singularly gifted
+in many ways) to lay all at the feet of her Master, and to offer to
+share whatever toils and trials might be in the way. "Ye have not
+passed this way heretofore." It was a new way, an "untrodden way."
+
+We have now been for many years so accustomed to hear of the kind
+welcome given in Canada, and the prosperity of the young emigrants,
+that we cannot realise the faith and courage required by Miss
+Macpherson, and her co-worker, Miss Bilbrough. Many misgivings arose
+in the hearts of some at the thought of these two sisters in the Lord
+arriving uninvited in a new land where neither owned a friend, and,
+greatest of all, fears were entertained that those who had known the
+wild roaming life of city Arabs might defy the control and authority
+of the leaders. But how vain were all these fears! Wisdom had been
+asked of the Lord in every step of the way, and He had given
+"liberally," according to His gracious word. How blessedly was the
+title of Counsellor as well as Leader and Commander of His people
+then fulfilled! The following description of the departure of the
+first party was written at the time:--
+
+  "Our souls are in God's mighty hand,
+  We're precious in His sight."
+
+These words, sweet and true at all times, surely never sounded
+sweeter than when sung by the band of young emigrants gathered for
+the last time within the walls of the Refuge, which to many of them
+is hallowed as no other spot on earth can ever be. _How_ precious
+in His sight, none can tell but He who watched over those young
+wanderers, and surrounded them with the loving care and prayers which
+still follow them to a distant land.
+
+The beloved helpers at a distance, who have toiled, and collected,
+and borne to a throne of grace the burdens of their beloved sister in
+the Lord, Miss Macpherson, will like to know every detail, even to
+the outward appearance of those once ragged, shoeless wanderers. Now
+they stood in ranks ready to depart, dressed in rough blue jackets,
+corduroy suits, and strong boots, all made within the Refuge, the
+work of their own hands. All alike had scarlet comforters and
+Glengarry caps; a canvas bag across their shoulders contained a
+change of linen for the voyage, towels, tin can, bowl and mug, knife,
+fork, and spoon; and one kind friend, the last day before starting,
+brought them a present of a hundred strong pocket-knives. A Bible, a
+"Pilgrim's Progress," and a little case of stationery, were provided
+for each, and while they stood thus indoors, singing their last
+farewell, a dense crowd filled the street without, having waited for
+hours in the pouring rain. It was with difficulty the police could
+keep struck with the sight of the boys, all remarking that they had
+never seen more intelligent countenances, and one observed, after
+hearing something of their history, "This is real religion."
+
+Liverpool was reached at 4 A.M., and all went at once on board the
+"Peruvian." Then came a trial of patience,--they had to wait some
+hours for breakfast,--but restraining grace was so manifest
+throughout, that one's heart was continually lifted up in praise and
+thanksgiving for this mercy as well as for countless others, and most
+especially for the loving-kindness of the Lord in strengthening and
+supporting His beloved servants at the time of parting.
+
+From want of space, it appeared impossible, (as far as could be
+judged from the first day's experience), to gather all the boys
+together, but even amid the difficulties attending first going on
+board, Miss Macpherson succeeded in holding a little service with a
+portion of them. Some of the passengers and crew gathered round; all
+were remembered in her supplications, and a deep solemnity rested on
+all. Then she called on those boys who knew what it was to draw near
+with assurance to the throne of grace to ask for blessing, and, with
+her undaunted energy, exhorted them not to be afraid to speak for
+Jesus. Prayer was followed by the oft-repeated hymn,--
+
+  "There is a better world, they say,
+  Oh, so bright!"
+
+The tender brought on board a band of Christian friends, who once
+more thronged around her, till the parting signal was given, and then
+the last sounds heard on leaving were, "Yes, we part, but not for
+ever," and "Shall we gather at the river?"
+
+The following note of cheer quickly arrived, to the joy of many
+anxious hearts and the praise of a prayer-hearing God:--
+
+"On Board the 'Peruvian,' off the Coast of Ireland, May 13, 1870.
+
+"MY DEAR SISTERS,--Fearing lest in your anxiety for us you may have
+imagined a rough night for the first, I send a few lines to assure
+you that all is love, even to the smallest details. Each rolling wave
+reminds me of that word in the Epistle of James, 'Let him ask in
+faith, nothing wavering. For he that wavereth is like a wave of the
+sea, driven with the wind and tossed. For let not that man think that
+he shall receive anything of the Lord.' Many a faithful prayer has
+ascended for a prosperous voyage; prosperity of soul is often
+realised by being kept in the lowest place, and when my boys told me
+how ill some of them had been in the night, and how they had,
+notwithstanding, held little prayer-meetings, crying to Jesus in the
+midst of what to them seemed a storm, I rejoiced. Thus trial sends us
+to Jesus, the Captain of our salvation.
+
+"With the exception of two, all are on deck now, as bright as larks;
+they have carried up poor Jack Frost, and Franks, the runner. It is
+most touching to see them wrap them up in their rugs. Michael Finn,
+the Shoreditch shoeblack, was up all night caring for the sick boys;
+he carries them up the ladder on his back. Poor Mike! he and I have
+exchanged nods at the Eastern Counties Railway corner these five
+years; it is a great joy to give him such a chance in life. Oh, to
+win his soul to look to Jesus for everlasting life!"
+
+The following extract will tell the answer to the many prayers by
+which Miss Macpherson was upheld, and how assuredly it was the Lord
+who had guided her way across the pathless deep:--
+
+"Mr. Stafford, the agent at Quebec, would willingly have kept the
+hundred boys there, but we only left him eleven, and brought the rest
+on to Montreal; and there too they were anxious to keep them, and
+said if it were made known, in three days we should not have one
+remaining. As it was, we left twenty-three, and all in excellent
+situations. Some of the best were picked out, numbers of them as
+house-servants. Then we left eight at Belleville, half way between
+Montreal and Toronto." These boys were left in charge of Mr. Leslie
+Thom, who had acted as schoolmaster at the Home of Industry, and
+whose help was invaluable on arrival in the new country.
+
+Miss Macpherson's youngest sister, Mrs. Birt, thus writes concerning
+the departure of the second family, so readily sent out in answer to
+the invitations of dear friends in Canada:--
+
+"I am sure our dear friends will feel exceedingly pleased and
+gratified to hear that the departure of our second band of boys for
+Canada this year, under the care of Mr. Merry, took place on the 21st
+of July, leaving our hearts filled to overflowing with thankfulness
+and praise for the very marked way in which the Lord has led us on
+step by step.
+
+"Little did we think, a month ago, that it would be possible in so
+short a time to select, teach, and outfit seventy boys, and to soften
+their manners, even if we had the necessary money for their expenses.
+But the Lord has most wonderfully brought it all about in His own
+way. The money was sent, boys anxiously in search of employment came
+beseeching help, the needful work for their outfits was accomplished
+in far less than the usual time by faithful widows, who sewed away as
+diligently as though each had been making garments for her own son.
+An active, earnest, clever teacher was also provided by the Lord, to
+give to these rescued ones that punctual and diligent, daily
+attention that seemed to us so important. Even the postponement of
+their sailing from the 14th inst. to the 21st inst. was overruled for
+good; Mr. Merry was enabled to become more personally acquainted with
+each, and we know that 'the good seed of the Word' was sown in many
+hearts, we trust to bear fruit. On reaching the ship, we were told
+that our band would have the benefit of a place set apart for
+themselves, whereas, had they sailed the previous week, they would
+have been crowded up with other emigrants. After three days' rest we
+return, the Lord willing, to the Refuge, to select and prepare a band
+of young girls. Our sister Miss Macpherson writes to us that she has
+been besought most earnestly by the Canadian ladies to send them out
+some little English maids; and that they promise to watch over them
+and care for them as if they were their own."
+
+After the arrival of Mr. Merry in Canada with the second party of
+boys, Miss Macpherson returned to England and wrote as follows:--
+
+"My BELOVED FELLOW-LABOURERS,--You will be surprised to hear that,
+after a pleasant voyage, with renewed health, I am again in my
+privileged place of service in the East of London. My song of praise
+is very full. The Council of the county of Hastings has given me a
+house capable of holding 200, free of all expenses, situated in the
+town of Belleville, Ontario, leaving the management in my hands,
+entirely untrammelled by conditions. Thus a work of faith is now
+commenced on Canadian shores, where our little street wanderers can
+at once be sent and trained under our own schoolmaster, Mr. Leslie
+Thom. My friend Miss Bilbrough, assisted by the Christian ladies of
+the town, has undertaken to furnish this Distributing Home in
+readiness for Mr. Merry's arrival. There all will undergo a training,
+and will be kept till suitable situations are appointed for them."
+
+After remaining a short time in England, Miss Macpherson,
+accompanied by her sister, Mrs. Birt, returned to Canada with the
+third party of young emigrants, numbering over a hundred.
+
+The following is an extract from Mrs. Birt's first letter after
+their arrival:--
+
+"In my memory are associated two scenes connected with the pretty
+park in which the Distributing Home is situated, scenes that can
+never be forgotten; first, the long procession of the tired and weary
+little travellers, wending their way up the carriage-drive, the
+clear, starlit sky overhead, and the quiet, bright full moon shining
+down on their upturned faces, as they stood in front of their new
+home, and sang so earnestly--
+
+ 'Praise God, from whom all blessings flow,
+  Praise Him, all creatures here below;'
+
+and secondly, on awaking the next morning and looking out, the sight
+of the whole party scampering about the park, just like so many
+little wild animals let loose from a cage, rushing about under every
+tree, as if trying whether their freedom was real. I had to call my
+sister to look at them; and in mind we carried them back to London at
+six o'clock in the morning, and felt it was indeed good for them to
+be thus in Canada. How longingly we wished we could fill the
+Distributing Home with just such a number every month of the year,
+for certain it is we could find places and homes for them all."
+
+A little later Miss Macpherson wrote:--
+
+"Yesterday afternoon Miss Bilbrough drove us out into the cleared
+backwoods to visit some of our children. The country was charming;
+woods and green valleys, with every now and then rich orchards laden
+with rosy apples; the long Concession roads, forming at times
+magnificent avenues, in which here and there a maple, which had
+caught a cold blast, prematurely showed the lovely autumnal tints so
+peculiar in richness to this country.
+
+"Everywhere we called the warmest hospitality was shown us, very
+like the 'furthy auld kintra folk' of Scotia in days lang syne.
+
+"Our first recognition was a boy named Ambrose, of the second
+detachment; he was busy in the farmyard, but soon, with a bright
+face, came to the side of our vehicle, telling us he was so happy and
+well; indeed, it required no words to assure us of this. Our next
+call was to one of the first settlers of fifty-eight years ago, still
+living in the house he had at first erected. His dear wife, on
+hearing of the arrival of the little English orphan children, could
+not sleep all night, but had her horses put into the team, and drove
+in to Belleville, and for the Lord's sake, who had been so good to
+her and hers, took away two, one for herself and one for her married
+daughter, whose home had never rung with the voice of a little
+prattler. It was great joy to see that they loved and cared for these
+little waifs as though they were their very own; my heart alone
+knowing whence they had been taken, and their little memories still
+keen as to the awful contrast of former want and this present
+abundance of food, fruit, and kindness.
+
+"With this dear, pious couple, we drank tea. Such a spread at this
+meal is never beheld in the old country. Around my cup of tea were
+seven different kinds of choice dainties at the same time. This is
+their way, and it is done with few words but warm welcome. The
+homespun, well-worn coat and well-patched shoes of our aged host were
+all forgotten when listening to his intelligent remarks on men and
+things; and though seventy-eight years of age, every faculty of head
+and heart seemed to keep pace with the times. He was a Wesleyan
+Methodist, and with pleasure told us of the erection of their new
+Zion, whose glistening tinned spire we could see rising among the
+woods at no great distance."
+
+Miss Bilbrough wrote at this time:--
+
+"Miss Macpherson has been able to spend during this summer much of
+her time in visiting among the different farms where our children are
+located, within some twenty or forty miles of Belleville in the
+counties of Hastings and Prince Edward. She would start some sunshiny
+morning on a week's tour, dining with one farmer, having tea at
+another's, and passing the night at some special friend's, Charlie,
+the mission horse, receiving the best of fare; while next day the
+farmer harnesses his horse and takes her round to the neighbouring
+farms where the little English emigrants have found a resting-place;
+and oh! the joy of these children to see again the well-remembered
+face, and hear the cheery voice of her who had first seen and
+relieved their misery in the old country, and now bringing fresh
+cheer and comfort in the new! With what haste the table is spread and
+soon loaded with substantial food, and afterwards what opportunities
+arise for a few words of counsel! Some verses are read from the Word
+of God, and then kneeling down, we and the new friends would commit
+the child to the care of Him who has said, 'I will never leave thee
+nor forsake thee.'
+
+"Here, too, the numerous tracts and books brought from England,
+'God's Way of Peace,' 'The Blood of Jesus,' 'British Workman,' 'Band
+of Hope,' and 'The Christian,' often containing a letter from Miss
+Macpherson, are eagerly sought after and read; and when passing along
+the road, Charlie seems now instinctively to stop when meeting some
+pedestrian, that out of our well-filled handbags may be given some
+tract or book."
+
+The following is a record of days of travel in the backwoods:--
+
+"MARCHMONT, BELLEVILLE, _October_.
+
+"My friend Miss Bilbrough and I started, after an early dinner,
+from Marchmont, having declined the kind offer of a friend's
+conveyance, preferring to go by the usual stage-waggon, as our object
+was to study the country people, and know those with whom our little
+ones mingle. In so doing we increase our opportunities of
+distributing books and tracts,--a new thing in these outlying
+districts. We ask prayer for a blessing on these, and for every dear
+boy and girl who has been under our care, that the Holy Spirit may
+bring to each mind the remembrance of the truth in Jesus, which has
+been set before them. Our faith is from time to time strengthened by
+seeing one after another joining the Lord's people.
+
+"The novelty of our position was increased when the driver and our
+fellow-passengers, seven in number, discovered that we were the
+friends of the orphan children. Their politeness was touching. We had
+to take the best seat, the curtains were drawn down to shelter us
+from the wind, and the driver strove to interest us by telling us
+histories of such of our boys as he knew at different points of his
+journey.
+
+"For miles the country seemed well cleared, except where portions of
+forest were left to supply wood for the years to come. The cedar-rail
+fence and 'Concession roads' marked all into well-defined portions.
+On these roads the homesteads are built in every variety of style,
+from the log-hut built of cedar-trees laid one upon the other,
+cemented together, and roofed with bark, to the stone and brick
+edifice, with barns and stables, and other surroundings, like unto
+one of our own old country farmhouses.
+
+"Our fellow-travellers were farmers, returning from Toronto Fair.
+They seemed amused and willing to listen to our conversation with the
+driver, and received our books most politely.
+
+"The 'lumbering district' stretched away northwards, some seventy-five
+miles from where the giants of the forest had been felled. The
+recollections of our fellow-passengers were interesting as to the few
+years ago, when the very country we were passing through was a dense
+mass of similar unhewn timber. Now on every side there were homesteads
+telling of plenty, and enlivened by rosy, healthy little ones. Who
+will question the desirability of thus peopling our Father's glorious
+landscapes, and gathering up our poor perishing children from our
+overcrowded dens and alleys, where they are dying by thousands yearly
+for want of pure air and sunshine, many becoming criminals ere they
+scarce leave their mother's knee?
+
+"The past encourages us to hope that He will not permit us to go
+before Him, and will both send sufficient strength for the day, and
+sufficient means for the support of all He would have us rescue from
+misery, by bringing them under the influences of a pious home,
+placing them in Sabbath schools, and above all, gathering them
+beneath the sheltering wing of the loving Shepherd.
+
+"We arrive at length at Roslin, and soon find the pretty house of
+our friend Dr. H---, where we are warmly greeted for the Master's
+sake, and ere long introduced to the only little baby prattler, its
+mother, and her widowed sister. They had lived in the city, had
+visited the old country, were friends of Mr. Gosse, and readers of
+'The Christian.' Hence we soon found that though in a Canadian
+backwood settlement, we had tastes and topics in common, and one
+longing especially united us--the burden of precious souls to be won
+for Him we all loved.
+
+"Through a chain of circumstances, Dr. B--- had obtained one of our
+boys, who had been engaged in a similar capacity in a suburb of
+London, but had lost his situation, and become an orphaned wanderer
+in our great city. His knowledge of dispensing was a recommendation
+for his appointment to another doctor; and, to my great joy, hitherto
+he had conducted himself so well, that in all the neighbourhood
+around other boys were so much in demand, that we now have no less
+than forty children in that district among the farmers.
+
+"My friend, ever a true helper as secretary, remembered that a small
+boy named Smith, who had left a mother sorely fretting after him,
+lived near, and proposed to go and get a report of him at once. The
+Doctor's conveyance soon was at the door, and in less than an hour my
+friend returned with a bright account of the comfortable home and the
+happiness of its young inmate.
+
+"The short hours after tea swiftly passed in conversing over the
+basket of books and tracts, many of these the gathered-up stores of
+my friends, which when read had been sent to the Refuge, and were now
+being spread freely in Canadian homes. We also talked over the
+principle which we were endeavouring to work out with these
+friendless children, namely, that as the Lord Jesus had given Himself
+to save us, so we ought to reach out the hand of love, and endeavour
+to snatch others from lives of misery and want. If we cannot open our
+own doors to the lost and wayward; ought we not to help in finding
+out those who can, that the lost and wandering lambs outside in the
+wilderness might be gathered beneath a sheltering wing inside some
+happy fold?
+
+"Dr. H--- and his intelligent wife and sister held a long
+conversation with us on the method best suited for those whom we are
+seeking to benefit--whether to educate them for a series of years in
+our institutions in the old country, or to afford them only a
+temporary residence with us, where their character, temper, and
+talents could be studied for a few months with a view to determine
+what family they would suit best. Our experience with the three
+hundred children now placed out and watched over by our co-labourers
+in Canada brought us to the latter conclusion, and the testimony of
+others in Germany was to the same effect.
+
+"Pastor Zeller, who himself founded an orphan asylum at Beuggen, had
+long before strongly advocated the placing of bereaved children in
+Christian families as the very best method of training them.
+Commenting on this, M. de Liefde observes--'An establishment which
+contains from fifty to seventy children (and this surely is only a
+small one), however well managed, cannot help being unnatural in many
+respects. Nature seldom puts more than twelve children together in
+one house; quite enough for a man and his wife to control, if due
+attention be given to the formation of the different characters and
+the development of the various talents. The training of a band of
+children beyond that number cannot help assuming the character of
+wholesale education. The larger the number, the greater the
+resemblance of the establishment to a barrack; it becomes a depot of
+ready-made young citizens, got up for social life at a fixed price,
+and within a fixed period of time. No wonder that they often turn out
+unfit for practical realities, and uncured of inveterate defects.'
+The noble Immanuel Wichern felt this objection so forcibly, that his
+famous 'Rauhe Haus' institution is like a village of families, each
+homestead with its house-father and house-mother, and its twelve boys
+or girls, as the case may be. He considered that he could not
+otherwise do justice to those whom God had committed to his care than
+by bringing the principles of family life to bear upon each
+individual.
+
+"In the course of conversation we asked, how it was that so far from
+the city they had heard of our having boys to dispose of, and it was
+pleasant to hear that the weekly 'Christian' was the link that led
+them to depute a relative to watch for our passing through Montreal.
+Family worship closed this day of sweet service.
+
+"The next morning our kind host studied the various Concessions in
+which our children had been located, and soon the 'democrat' (a
+peculiar carriage suited for this country) was brought to the door,
+and the doctor, and his sister accompanied us for the day's drive.
+
+"The day was balmy, like one of our bright June days, and beeches
+and maples, firs and cedars, were beautiful to behold in their autumn
+loveliness.
+
+"Our first call was at Mr. V---'s. He was a widower, and, finding
+his home lonely, had sought at Marchmont for a little one to love and
+cheer him. He had taken the twin-like brothers, Freddy and Tommy,
+whose sweet little faces bore some resemblance to his own. We found
+the children at school, looking hearty and happy in the playground as
+we passed the schoolhouse. Mr. V--- was from home, but his mother, a
+pious woman, received us most kindly, and spoke affectionately of the
+children. She took us to see her lovely flowerbeds of annuals, all
+laid out with taste in front of the wooden house, and tended by her
+own hands when house-work was over. My heart longed for the joy of
+telling the happiness of these children to the aged pious grandmother
+pining away in want and sickness, and forsaken by her own son, the
+father of these boys.
+
+"Passing onwards, we drove past a rosy-cheeked little fellow
+climbing a bank. A month in the fresh air had so changed him from the
+delicate, pale, thin boy, that we looked again ere we recognised
+Alfred Bonkin. His widowed mother will sing for joy to hear of his
+being thus educated, clothed, and fed, and growing up to an honest
+life.
+
+"Alfred was 'fixed up' (to use a Canadian term) with two others of
+our children in a family settlement. One was a grown-up lad, employed
+in farm work, and the other a little matchbox-maker. The venerable
+couple who had adopted them had won our hearts when calling upon us
+at the Home. They were both over eighty years of age, had thirty
+grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, and yet room to love our
+little ones, and not miss the 'bite and the sup.' It was washing-day;
+but the old lady left her tub 'right away,' and hoped we would not be
+'scared,', by her being in a bustle, but just 'take off,' and she
+would soon spread the table? We spoke of our long round of calls, and
+with difficulty we got away, not before we had been laden with a
+basket of the finest apples we had ever seen, and had promised to
+come and pay a long visit next time. From all we witnessed, we could
+not but rejoice in the way God had opened homes and Christ-loving
+hearts to receive our perishing little ones."
+
+"Peace and plenty smiled on every hand. Tears came as a relief when
+fondling little Annie Parker took my hand, saying, 'Tome and see my
+father's new house!' The memory came back of Mr. Morgan, Mr. Holland,
+and a few friends meeting with me in John Street to form a 'Little
+Girls' Home.' Two years have now passed since Annie and her whole
+family were carried to the Fever Hospital. Both the parents died; the
+four girls took a room, and lived by matchbox-making. Annie and
+Maggie were the youngest, starved and ragged beyond description.
+Since that time they have both been cared for, have learnt their
+letters, and can now read and write. Surely the most inveterate
+opponents to emigration could not but approve of and seek a blessing
+on such a change. Where in all England could we have found, in a few
+weeks, hearts and homes for forty adoptions? These families are
+thrifty and homely--spinning, weaving, knitting, knowing what small
+means with a blessing can do, and are the very people to train up our
+children for a common-sense battle with the difficulties of life."
+
+"We were interested in observing the forethought displayed in laying
+up stores for the winter; apple being peeled, quartered, strung upon
+strings, and dried either in the sun, or over the kitchen stove;
+pumpkins cut into parings and dried, &c."
+
+"All that remained at this late season (October) in the fields was
+the buckwheat. When this is cut and placed in stacks, its red roots
+are exposed, affording a pleasant contrast to the dark green of the
+up-springing fall-wheat. More immediately around the houses, lay the
+immense yellow pumpkins, still attached to their dying stems."
+
+The time for Miss Macpherson's return to England now drew near, and
+with a heart filled with thankfulness for the mercies they had
+already experienced Miss Bilbrough offered to remain at Marchmont, to
+brave alone the first Canadian winter, and with Mr. Thom's help to
+watch over any case of difficulty that might arise among those who
+had come out; for as yet the work was an experiment.
+
+
+A CANADIAN PASTOR'S STORY.
+
+"Annie and Maggie, the children before mentioned, were taken out to
+Canada by Miss Macpherson, and were at first unavoidably placed in
+families residing at some distance from each other. The younger one
+was brought back to the Marchmont Home on account of a peculiar lisp,
+which her master's children were acquiring from her. Almost
+immediately another farmer called for a girl to assist his wife in
+the care of her little ones. He saw little Maggie, cared nothing for
+her lisp, and would have her away with him. On taking down his
+address, it was found that he lived on the farm next to that where
+the elder, sister was placed. It was near the end of the week, and on
+the next Sabbath morning an unexpected meeting occurred, feelingly
+described in the following verses. The incident was related to Miss
+Macpherson by the pastor himself."
+
+  Come now, a story, dear papa,
+    Now find a knee for each;
+  You said, papa, that once you heard
+    Two little sisters preach
+
+  A better sermon far than you:
+    Jane says that cannot be.
+  We want to know, so tell us now,
+    Before they bring the tea.
+
+  Come then, my darlings, you must know,
+    Beyond the wild deep sea,
+  In London's streets, these sisters grew
+    In want and misery.
+
+  Their parents died, and they were left,
+    Poor girls, in sore distress;
+  Ah! dear ones, may you never know
+    An orphan's loneliness!
+
+  But kindly hearts, which God had touched,
+    Felt for them in their grief;
+  He taught them too the surest way
+    To give such woes relief.
+
+  Away from London's crowded streets,
+    They bade the sisters come,
+  Within our brave, broad Canada,
+    To find a pleasant home.
+
+  A pleasant home for each was found,
+    But far apart they lay;
+  And thus apart the sisters dwelt
+    While long months rolled away.
+
+  Poor little girls! 'twas very sad;
+    They were too young to write;
+  And no one guessed the quiet tears
+    Poor Annie shed at night.
+
+  Among our Sabbath-scholars soon
+    I learned to watch her face;
+  A quiet sadness on her brow
+    I fancied I could trace.
+
+  One summer's morning, Sabbath peace
+    Filled all the sunny air,
+  And all within God's house was hushed,
+    To wait the opening prayer;
+
+  When up the aisle a neighbour came,
+    With hushed but hasty tread;
+  And by the hand with kindly care
+    A little girl he led.
+
+  A sudden cry ran through the church,
+    A cry of rapture wild;
+  And starting from her seat we saw
+    Our quiet English child.
+
+  "Sister! my sister!" was the cry
+    That through the silence rung,
+  As round the little stranger's neck
+    Her eager arms she flung.
+
+  And tears and kisses mingling fast,
+    She pressed on lip and cheek;
+  For silent tears can sometimes tell
+    What words are poor to speak.
+
+  Then soft o'er cheek, and brow, and hair,
+    Her trembling fingers crept;
+  Then heart to heart, and cheek to cheek,
+    Those loving sisters wept.
+
+  Nor they alone, for strong men sobbed;
+    Women stood weeping by;
+  And little ones looked up amazed,
+    And asked what made them cry.
+
+  Oh, broken was the prayer we prayed,
+    Scarce could we raise the hymn;
+  And when God's holy book I read,
+    My eyes with tears were dim.
+
+  And yet we felt the Saviour there,
+    Right in our midst that day;
+  "Will you not love my little ones?"
+    We almost _heard_ Him say.
+
+  No need of laboured words that day
+    Long hardened hearts to move;
+  Well had the sisters' meeting preached
+    The lesson, "God is Love."
+
+  His heart had felt their childish grief,
+    The while they mourned apart;
+  His loving-hand had wrought the plan,
+    To bring them heart to heart.
+
+S. R. GELDARD.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER III.
+
+1870-1871.
+
+Workers' meetings at home of industry--Training home at Hampton
+opened--Personal experiences--Welcome in Western Canada--Help for a
+Glasgow home--Scottish ferryman--"Out of the mouths of babes and
+sucklings."
+
+
+Before the close of the year Miss Macpherson had returned from
+Canada, and at the usual monthly meeting for workers was again
+enabled to tell of the goodness and mercy that had followed her.
+
+One of the great needs of the East End which has already been
+mentioned, was that of some central spot where Christian workers
+might meet for prayer and counsel. This need was abundantly met at
+the Home of Industry, open at all times, with a welcome and words of
+cheer ready for the servants of the Lord from every part of the
+world. The workers' meetings, once a month, have given opportunities
+for hearing tidings of the spread of the gospel in the "regions
+beyond." Those who had hitherto been standing idle have been aroused,
+and many who have long borne the burden and heat of the day have been
+refreshed. It would be difficult to reckon the number of those who
+have in the Home of Industry first heard the summons from the Lord to
+"go forth," as "messengers of the glory of Christ," and are now
+toiling in distant lands.
+
+The difficulty of keeping a number of active restless spirits within
+the hounds of a house in the position of the Home of Industry,
+without one inch of yard or playground, and in the midst of streets
+in which it was unsafe for one of these boys to be seen, can hardly
+be imagined. It was a subject of the greatest astonishment to a
+descendant of Immanuel Wichern's that in such circumstances Miss
+Macpherson was enabled to keep them under control. It was, however,
+most desirable to find some place where their active energies could
+be employed in some sort of training for the Canadian out-door life.
+Miss Macpherson thus refers to her thankfulness that such a spot was
+found:--
+
+"Those who share with us the burdens of this work will rejoice to
+hear that we have now a Home in the country, where we can cultivate a
+few acres, and where the children can become efficiently trained for
+Canada under the superintendence of Mr. and Mrs. Merry. It is
+situated near the village of Hampton and is now being furnished. This
+will enable me to rescue another hundred from street-life at once.
+What a boon from the Lord Whom we serve!"
+
+It proved to be just what was needed, as is shown by the testimony
+of another friend:--
+
+"The Training Home at Hampton bids fair to be a most valuable
+addition to Miss Macpherson's scheme for rescuing these dear children
+if only for their health's sake; the pure air, the early hours for
+rising, the outdoor and spade exercise, the plentiful supply of real
+milk, are all good; and the absence of all noise and excitement gives
+a much fairer chance of seeing what the boys really are, and the
+probability of their taking to Canadian life."
+
+The next party was arranged to leave for Canada by the "Prussian" on
+the 4th of May, and on this occasion one who had the privilege of
+accompanying them thus wrote:--"I feel it as impossible to convey to
+friends in England a true idea of the kind welcome accorded to our
+poor little ones, as it is to give to dear Canadian friends any
+adequate idea of the crowded misery of our own dens and alleys.
+
+"It has scarcely been credited by some that so many hundreds of
+little travellers could have crossed the Atlantic in many successive
+voyages and not have experienced one storm. How we realised the power
+of Him 'who stilleth the noise of the sea, the noise of their waves,
+and the tumult of the people!' for on this voyage, as on every other,
+it has been remarkable that no discord has arisen among her many
+young charges. The work begun on land was carried on at sea, and many
+young hearts were blessed of the Lord ere they left the ship. It was
+pleasant to hear many testimonies in their favour among the
+passengers and crew; pleasant also to hear testimonies of
+thankfulness for Miss Macpherson's presence in the ship; for she
+laboured unceasingly among the crew and steerage passengers as well
+as with her own special charges.
+
+"Kind letters of welcome were received off Quebec. For a few hours
+we were detained at Point Levi, waiting for the emigrants' train, and
+watching with delight the sun descending and streaming with splendour
+on the cliffs and magnificent river; some of the heights bare, others
+clothed with firs, all picturesque and grand. The evening star shone
+before us as we were carried westward; one of the little orphan girls
+said it looked as if watching over us to help us; and in the morning
+we reached Montreal Junction, where one of the warm Canadian friends
+who have welcomed Miss Macpherson so cordially entered the cars, and
+spoke very encouraging words to the young travellers, telling them
+how he had himself been as dependent on his own exertions as any of
+them could be, and how by perseverance in the situation he had first
+entered, he had risen from the humblest post to the highest, and had
+long been in a position to help others. This friend is the
+superintendent of a large Sunday-school, and his scholars have
+undertaken the support of an English child.
+
+"A lovely cloudless day was just dawning as we arrived at
+Belleville, and we were greeted at the station by the kind voice of
+Mr. Henderson, one of the evangelists, for whose labours in Canada we
+have had so much reason to praise the Lord. The sun had not risen
+when we were first taken across the blue rushing river Moira,
+carrying with it the floating logs, felled far away, and borne by its
+rapid current to the Bay of Quinte, the beautiful shores of which we
+caught sight of just 'as the crimson streak in the east was growing
+into the great sun.'
+
+"But we were now at Marchmont; and lovely as it was in the fresh
+green of spring, (the maples, not yet in full leaf permitting a
+glimpse of the bay,) yet all other feelings were lost in the joy of
+being welcomed by dear Miss Bilbrough, who had been watching for us
+all through the night. Miss Macpherson was allowed but few hours to
+rest before the throng of visitors came to welcome her, and to take
+away the newly arrived little ones. Among the first was a lady, the
+mother of eight girls, who had lost her only son, and who carried
+away, with tears of joy, a boy brought from Southampton workhouse.
+There were farmers from many miles round, bringing their
+recommendations from ministers or other well-known friends; there
+were children who had been brought out the previous year, some
+earning good wages, and bringing their savings to Miss Macpherson,
+too full of joy to say much, but clinging round the one whom the Lord
+had blessed in rescuing so many from want and misery. Among these
+were three former little matchbox-makers, who had known more sorrow
+and care during their early years than is sometimes crowded into a
+lifetime. Tears on both sides were sometimes the only greeting given.
+Pages might be filled with records of one day at Marchmont, records
+of the Lord's goodness to the fatherless and motherless, and those
+rescued from a worse fate still; whose parents would have dragged
+them down into the haunts of drunkenness and sin, from which, in
+later years, it would have been so much harder to reclaim them. Oh,
+that many more in our own land could witness with their own eyes the
+boundless openings for work, and provision made for our poor children
+in the broad lands the Lord has so mercifully spread before us!
+
+"The first experience I had of the home of a Canadian farmer was in
+the neighbourhood of Stirling. Our drive was partly along the banks
+of the river Moira, which, perhaps, from being the first with which I
+was made acquainted, has always appeared to me one of the loveliest
+in 'this land of broad rivers and streams.' After leaving the river,
+our road passed through woods, in which we saw wild flowers of larger
+size and brighter colours than our own, though fewer in number; and
+from a rising ground we saw Stirling beneath us, and a few miles
+beyond reached the dwelling of one who had come out with no other
+riches than the strength of his own hands. His house was humble in
+outward appearance, but contained every comfort, and was surrounded
+by orchard and garden, and many acres of cultivated land. Huge barns
+to hold the abundant produce are always the most conspicuous feature
+in every Canadian farm. Cattle, sheep, and poultry were all around,
+and all his own, and in his own power to leave to the sons growing up
+around him. In this family the sons were all following the father's
+occupation.
+
+"In most families that I have seen, as a good education is within
+the reach of all, some of the sons have preferred following the study
+of law or medicine; the farmers have therefore the more need of
+helpers, and welcome the more eagerly the young hands brought out.
+Though we were quite unexpected, all but one of our party being
+perfect strangers, we were pressed with the usual Canadian
+hospitality to remain the night; and while our horse rested, our kind
+host took out his own team and drove Mr. Thom to visit children
+settled in the neighbouring farms.
+
+"My next experience was that of a farm beyond Trenton, where one of
+the boys was engaged. Our drive was along the bay, and the opposite
+shores of Prince Edward's county often reminded me of the Isle of
+Wight as seen from the Hampshire coast. Our road first passed the
+Deaf and Dumb Asylum, a grand and spacious building, a mile out of
+Belleville, and then was bordered by orchards and rich cornfields,
+scattered cottages and farmhouses, with lilac bushes clustering round
+the doors and verandahs. Outside every farmhouse may be seen by the
+roadside a wooden stand, on which are placed the ample cans of milk
+waiting for the waggon to carry them to the cheese factories. No
+fear, it appears, is here entertained either of milk being stolen or
+of fruit being missed from the abundant spoils on either side the
+road.
+
+"At Trenton, beautifully situated near the head of the bay, a boy
+rushed out at the welcome sight of his friend, and farther on more
+greetings of love and gratitude awaited her. The farm we this day
+visited was one of more importance than the last. Four hundred acres
+of ground surrounded a well-built house, two stories high, and
+covering much ground. In such a dwelling a handsome piano is seldom
+missing, and here stood one in the inner drawing-room. Luxuries that
+could be purchased for money were not wanting, but labourers were not
+so easily procured, and the contrast between the interior of the
+house and the rough approach to it was most remarkable.
+
+"So much must necessarily be done with so few hands, that time for a
+flower-garden, or even the making of a neat footpath, cannot be
+found. The mistress of the house looked sadly worn and wearied from
+want of help in her indoor labours.
+
+"Within easy reach of this house stood a much smaller one, built by
+the owner of the farm for himself and his wife to retire to whenever
+their eldest son should choose a bride and undertake the farm. This I
+have seen elsewhere in Canada and have also known the heir of the
+property to go out for the day helping at another farm, where no
+labourer could be found in the neighbourhood. No contrast could be
+greater to one coming from the sight of the constant distress in the
+crowded East of London,--distress arising from want of work, food,
+light, air, and room to live and breathe in, and the comfort here
+beheld and experienced through the abundance of all; the pure fresh
+air, the sight of 'God's blessings growing out of our mother earth,'
+the ground ready to bestow so rich a return for all the labour
+bestowed on it, and the only want that of the human hands--the hands
+that, in our own land, are to be had so easily, that human beings are
+expected to work like machines, and human frames are used as though
+made of brass or iron."
+
+Miss Macpherson was not permitted to remain many days quietly at
+Belleville. The call came for her to go farther into Western Canada,
+and this eventually resulted in the establishing of the Home at Galt.
+The journey is thus described in her own words:--
+
+"Believing that our gift was to pioneer, we left our dear friends
+embosomed at Marchmont among the bursting maple trees in loveliest
+spring-time. At early dawn on May 23rd we started, with a party of
+twenty of our boys of different ages, for Woodstock and Embro, a
+district of country where thousands of Scotch families have settled,
+and where there has been a wave of blessing from the Lord, through
+the faithful preaching of evangelists in the past year. Therefore we
+longed to 'spy' the land, not so much to gain an increase of dollars
+or more cultivated land for our boys, but our object was to find
+hearts that had been awakened to newness of life; and we trusted that
+with such our children would be nourished by the sincere milk of the
+Word, and grow thereby into godly men and faithful witnesses of the
+Lord Jesus."
+
+"At the close of a long and hot day's travel, we reached Woodstock;
+and though a single telegram had been the only announcement of our
+expected arrival, warm hearts greeted us. Next day the boys were
+gazed at, admired, wished for, questioned, and _feted_, until we
+began to fear lest they should be spoiled by seeing the great demand
+for them, and the eagerness with which they were sought after, being
+considered, as they term them, 'smart boys.' With ourselves it was a
+day of much prayer for the needed wisdom. And in the afternoon,
+(being the Queen's birthday, and kept by loyal Canadians as a
+complete holiday), the dear boys went off with us through shady
+groves for a walk. We went into a cemetery, and read together from
+our penny Gospels the 9th of St. John. But here we were found out,
+and invited to one of the loveliest country-seats we had ever seen.
+It had been an old Indian settlement, and from its groves we had a
+view of the distant woodlands clothed in richest foliage. On a
+beautiful lawn, the old Scotchman, with tearful tenderness, fed our
+dear boys with unaccustomed dainties, and jugs full of new milk."
+
+"In the evening a Scotchman arrived from a still more western
+district, Arkona, deputed by his neighbours to come for seven more
+boys. We could, however, only spare him five. The boy he took from us
+last year had behaved so well, that the demand had increased. Then
+came those painful leave-takings; and to see great boys of sixteen
+and seventeen sobbing, was no easy work for my clinging heart; but He
+who scattered His disciples, and went Himself by lonely pathways,
+knew our need, even at this time."
+
+"Next day we went farther inland, nine miles beyond the railroad, to
+Embro. There we found 'democrats,' each with a pair of horses, for the
+boys and luggage, in which they went off in high glee, under the care
+of a good man of my own name; and for myself and friend, a Highlander
+long frae the hills of our native land, had sent a carriage and pair
+of splendid spirited horses."
+
+"Our party of boys had by this time considerably decreased; and had
+they been hundreds instead of ones, of similarly trained boys, there
+would have been no difficulty in distributing them into good homes."
+
+"Canada is just now in a most prosperous state. Farmers' sons do not
+remain at home, but either, enter professions or stores, or go
+farther West to colonise. Hence the need of further help, which is
+met by our boys, who take their place, beginning with the A B C of
+farm-work, or, as Canadians express it, 'choring round.'
+
+"This new district was very pleasing to a Scotch eye--hill and
+dale, rich woods, substantial farmhouses, richly cultivated orchards,
+beautiful with blossom; picturesque views of gushing rivers in wild
+gorges, with grand old monarchs of the forest telling the tales of
+years gone by, ere the emigrant's axe had laid their companions low."
+
+"We reached a lovely village, and were warmly welcomed by 'Macs' of
+every name, reminding one of childhood's summers spent in the
+Highlands of old Scotia. Here we were at home; the sweet assurance of
+a Saviour's love shone in the faces that now surrounded us; we were
+on the trail of an evangelist, and Jesus 'lifted-up' had been beheld,
+making faces beam with thankfulness to Him who had given Himself for
+them."
+
+"The kind McAuley, who had opened his house and heart in expectation
+of the whole twenty boys from London, had himself been overwhelmed
+with love-offerings in the shape of food the good neighbours had sent
+in, vying with each other in showing kindness to the orphan and the
+stranger.
+
+"Ah! what a power and privilege is granted to us women, in that we
+are permitted to arise and second the work of the evangelist by
+showing our faith by our works, and giving to the Christians in this
+land of plenty and _no_ poverty objects upon which to work out
+their love! Words fail to depict the extreme tenderness and delicate
+attention shown to us, for Jesus' sake, during the forty-eight hours
+we spent in the midst of this kindred people.
+
+"In the evening the old Scotch kirk was filled to the door, and
+after the singing of some sweet hymns and several heart-breathings of
+prayer, we spoke of the dealings of the Lord in this mission among
+the children of our million-peopled city. Whilst doing this, it was
+difficult to realise that we were not at home, among the dear
+brothers and sisters who are wont to meet with us for prayer at the
+Home of Industry.
+
+"The thank-offering to the Lord at the close was spontaneous, also
+the supply of food sent in by the farmers, and which was sufficient
+for a hundred children. It seemed almost more than my poor heart
+could bear when I called to mind the starving multitudes gathered in,
+and ravenously devouring the morsel of bread dealt out to them in
+London. It made me long that the Christian women of our land would
+rise up in some great national movement, and help many thousands of
+our oppressed families to come out to this land of plenty, where
+millions of acres are crying for labour. It is no romance nor ideal
+of a heated brain, but a plain, practical way of showing our
+Christianity, this bearing the burdens of many a sinking, crushed-down
+family.
+
+"The much-dreaded Canadian winter is really the most enjoyable
+period of the whole year, and when it is over one hears of nothing
+but sorrow that 'winter's noo awa.'"
+
+Miss Macpherson had intended returning to England in October, but
+was delayed for a time by many calls for service. From Montreal she
+writes:--
+
+"Strike another note of praise for the answer to the many prayers of
+our Glasgow fellow-labourers. A friend in Scotland has been stirred up
+to give 2000 pounds in order to build an Emigration Refuge in that
+city, that homeless lads may be trained for Canada. Let us unite in
+asking that ere long similar Homes may be opened in Edinburgh and
+Liverpool, where poor and oppressed orphans abound. Before returning
+to you, we trust that corresponding Homes on this side will be in
+course of preparation, one in the East and another in the West, so
+that when the 150 young emigrants arrive at Quebec, fifty can proceed
+at once to each Home for distribution.
+
+"We leave Marchmont accompanied in our mission carriage by two boys;
+and these two have histories which contain a lesson for all boys.
+Their antecedents in England were much the same--orphanage, want of
+caretakers, misery. One is still self-willed, having no mercy on
+himself, a runaway from the home in which we had placed him, and was
+brought to us a second time by the police as homeless. We are now
+taking him back to his master to hear all about the grievances, and
+find out that they arose from his determination not to go to school.
+A boy that does not value the opportunities afforded him, but prefers
+growing up in ignorance, must suffer for it sooner or later. May all
+boys who read this determine to apply themselves to every lesson
+heartily; each difficulty overcome will render it more easy to master
+the next.
+
+"The other boy was one of the first hundred; he arrived by train
+from Toronto at midnight, and rang us up, expecting admittance, for
+he felt that he was coming home to see his friends, his master having
+given him a holiday. This boy, though utterly alone in the world,
+snatched by us from a life in London stables, stands there, at
+fourteen, a self-reliant little man, with his purpose in life
+clearly defined. He is not many minutes in the house before he
+discloses the joy it is to come home, and tells us how he has as good
+a suit of Sunday-clothes to put on as any gentleman.
+
+"Next morning he sits during Bible-lesson in the schoolroom side by
+side with the ne'er-do-weel. Both are received for Jesus' sake, the
+one in his poverty and self-will, the other in his good suit and
+self-complacency, but both still wanting the 'one thing needful' to
+fit them for the home and mansions on high. Whilst endeavouring to
+explain how Jesus had loved them, and wrought out a righteousness for
+them, and was as willing to receive them as we had been, and that He
+had a large and loving heart, and cared for the many hundreds still
+wandering about in the great city, tears filled the eyes of the
+little group. Just picture what we felt as J--- P---, in the most
+humble and childlike way, put his hand in his pocket and drew out
+twenty-five dollars, saying, 'Miss, that will bring another.'
+
+"My words ceased, and a choking feeling came into my throat as the
+lesson was being learnt by half-a-dozen of self-willed returned boys.
+Much we longed that all our children could have witnessed this scene.
+Very few of them, except the selfish and depraved, would like to be
+behind J--- P--- in having the privilege of giving us so much
+encouragement in this work.
+
+"The first year J--- P--- received no wagers, only his food and
+clothes; now, his services having become valuable, he gets six
+dollars a month. He has purchased for himself a silver watch, a good
+overcoat, and has also returned most honourably his passage-money,
+therefore he has received his neatly framed and beautifully
+illuminated discharge, to hang up, showing he is now no longer a poor
+emigrant.
+
+"J--- holds that the habit of saving the cents is the secret of
+success, and he intends plodding on until he can purchase a farm of
+his own, and we think it will not be very long before he does so, if
+his life is spared. Thus he accompanies us as a son, and as such is
+received and lodged in the various homes we visit.
+
+"It was most amusing to hear him tell the runaway sitting by him in
+the carriage how to get on and advise him not to give way to his own
+will and his own temper.
+
+"By boys this advice is more easily given than taken, as was proved
+in this case. We left the boy on his promising that he would be
+obedient and go to school. But the subtle enemy, ere the day was out,
+gave this boy of fourteen years old the idea of being his own master,
+rather than live out that wondrous word of four letters, _obey_.
+Again he escaped from a good home, and after wandering many miles,
+knocked late at night at a ferryman's, and asked for food. Here
+Robert Jack, a kind Scotchman, recognised the English corduroy, and
+at once met him with, 'You are one of Miss Macpherson's' boys.' He
+was fed and lodged, and strange to say, next day we were led, in the
+course of our journey, to cross that very ferry. The young runaway
+seeing us from the window exclaimed, 'Oh! here comes Mr. Thorn,' and
+would have hidden away from our sight, knowing he was doing wrong,
+for he would not understand that we were his friends, willing to help
+and love him. Oh, may all boys who read this seek earnestly to
+believe that Jesus is their very best Friend, and He only can remove
+their self-will and blindness of heart!
+
+"In crossing the ferry early in the summer, we had spoken faithfully
+to this ferryman, and had sent him the 'Life of Robert Annan' by
+post. They had been schoolfellows together, and after reading the
+book, he got many others to read it also. This small sixpenny gift,
+accompanied by prayer, had done a work. Robert was willing to become
+a co-worker with us, and is now trying to train to honest industry
+our little self-willed runaway. Thus we hope that in the log-hut of
+the Scottish ferryman he may learn to read and write, and that the
+blessed Spirit will work on the hearts of both master and boy.
+
+"The experience of yearning over this orphan boy moved our hearts to
+speak of Jesus, who bore with such long-suffering love our own
+rebelliousness ere we came to Him."
+
+The story has been told before of the first poor girl rescued in the
+East of London through Miss Macpherson's blessed agency, one whose
+father had died suddenly of cholera, whose mother had thrown herself
+into a canal, and, though rescued, had been, through drink, a source
+of misery to her children. The eldest brother [Footnote: This boy,
+now a shoemaker, has written asking to be allowed to have one of the
+lads, as an apprentice.] of this poor girl, about sixteen years of
+age, had been brought out the previous year to Canada, and appearing
+one day at Marchmont, I thought from his looks and dress that he was
+one of the farmers' sons come to engage a boy, little thinking that
+so short a time had passed since he was destitute as the poorest
+among them.
+
+In England we are so accustomed to the sorrowful sight of neglected
+children, it can hardly be imagined by us how such a fact strikes a
+Canadian. Often have I seen the tears in the eyes of the farmers at
+the sight of little ones brought so far to seek a home at such an
+early age. This was especially the case with regard to little Annie
+referred to in the following lines, the youngest of three sisters
+left motherless in a workhouse. When I last saw this little sufferer
+health and strength had been given to her, and she was the pet of all
+in a home of comfort.
+
+
+  "OUT OF THE MOUTHS OF BABES AND SUCKLINGS."
+
+  "From the mouths of babes and sucklings,"
+    Was the Psalmist's grateful word,
+  "Thou hast perfected Thy praises,"
+    And I thank Thee, gracious Lord.
+
+  And e'en yet from infant voices
+    Words of wondrous meaning fall,
+  And the Christian's heart rejoices,
+    For he knows his Father's call.
+
+  Little Annie sat beside me,
+    Smiles upon her baby face;
+  Early sorrow, early suffering,
+    On her cheek had left their trace.
+
+  Little feet, too weak to wander
+    Where the merry children play;
+  'Neath the flickering aspen shadows,
+    By broad Quinte's sunny bay.
+
+  Thoughts of pitying love came thronging
+    As I thought how Jesus came;
+  How He blessed the little children,
+    How He healed the sick and lame.
+
+  So I asked the little maiden,
+    "Annie, Jesus cares for you--
+  If we saw Him now beside us,
+    Can you think what He would do?"
+
+  Strangely solemn, seemed the answer,
+    (Listen, sisters o'er the sea);
+  "Jesus, just to you would give me,
+    And would bid you care for me."
+
+  English sisters, rich and gifted!
+    Ask your hearts, Can this be true?
+  Christ hath many a homeless orphan,
+    Is He saying this to you?
+
+  "Take this child and nurse it for Me?"
+    Will you dare to say Him nay?
+  Dare to let His children perish,
+    Or in evil paths to stray?
+
+  If too stately are your dwellings,
+    Send them hither, let them come;
+  In our fair Canadian homesteads,
+    Gladly we will make them room.
+
+  Room where orchard boughs are dropping
+    Fruit that waits their hands to pull;
+  Room to rest, and room to labour,
+    Room in home, in church, in school.
+
+  When the winter snow lies sparkling,
+    They shall share our winter joys,
+  Tinkling bells and merry sleigh-ride,
+    With our laughing girls and boys.
+
+  When our maple pours its nectar,
+    They shall share the luscious treat;
+  Where the woodland strawb'ries cluster,
+    Glad shall stray their little feet.
+
+  When our Sabbath-scholars gather,
+    They shall join the joyous throng;
+  Sweet will sound their English voices,
+    'Mid the burst of children's song.
+
+  Sisters, shall we share the blessing?
+    Bring the lambs to Jesu's fold?
+  _Ours_ are homes of peace and plenty,
+    To _your_ hands He gives the gold.
+
+  S. R. GELDARD.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IV.
+
+1872.
+
+The need of a Home further West--Burning of the Marchmont Home--Home
+restored by Canadian gifts--Miss Macpherson and Miss Reavell arrive
+in Canada--First visit to Knowlton in the East--Belleville Home
+restored by Canadian friends--Help for the Galt Home--Miss Macpherson
+returns to England--Miss Reavell remains at Galt.
+
+
+In her first letter on returning to England Miss Macpherson writes:--
+
+"BELOVED FELLOW-WORKERS,--Once more at home among the old familiar
+scenes in the East of London, the sadness and the sin shadows our joy
+and thanksgiving. My first visit in the immediate vicinity of the
+Refuge I shall not soon forget.
+
+"Taking good news of Andrew in Canada to his mother, I found his
+father lying dead drunk in one corner, and his little brother lying
+dead waiting to be carried off to the grave by the parish in the
+other.
+
+"In the first low women's lodging-house, I found a poor misguided
+girl asking me, 'How's my little sister?'
+
+"Passing on to Mr. Holland in George Yard, I cheered him with
+answers to his many inquiries as to the placing out of his rescued
+ones.
+
+"Many a warm shake of the hand I had from poor costermongers and
+grey-headed men, for what had been done for their belongings in
+taking them from the sin and want around.
+
+"My way is now open to go forward, as means permit, to rescue girls
+and train them for Canada or for service in England."
+
+Miss Macpherson goes on to tell of the purchase of the Galt Home,
+300 miles westward, and states the need in these words:--
+
+"We found that to educate our Canadian family, and thoroughly fit
+them to be of value to the farmer, a few fields to work upon would be
+an advantage, that they might see the effects of new soil and
+climate, in the growth of vegetables, shrubs, and farm produce."
+
+"Thou hast tried us as silver is tried. We went through fire and
+through water, but Thou broughtest us out into a wealthy place." This
+was the experience of the beginning of the year 1872. Miss
+Bilbrough's letter brings to mind Deut. xxxiii. 12.
+
+"BELLEVILLE, _January 29_, 1872.
+
+"DEAREST ANNIE,--It is indeed difficult to begin a letter to you,
+when I know you always open our letters feeling sure of good news.
+And yet this one brings you the best you ever had. Lives spared, I
+trust, to work more than ever for Him who hath done such great things
+for us. Our song is one of continual thankfulness and praise, and I
+know you will join us in giving thanks. Our beautiful Home lies in
+ruins, only the walls standing, and there is one little grave dug by
+Benjamin Stanley's, containing the ashes of little Robbie Gray.
+
+"I hardly know how to begin, it still seems so terrible and real.
+
+"We had had a happy Sabbath. We were to have an early breakfast next
+morning, and I awoke in the night thinking it was daylight. Miss
+Baylis came to my door, which was shut, saying, 'Miss Bilbrough,
+there's smoke!'
+
+"I jumped up, and oh, the feeling, when I saw the house full of
+dense white smoke! I knew well what it must be. I rushed to Mr.
+Thorn's room, he was sleeping heavily, but I roused him, saying the
+house was on fire; then I went down to the boys, Philips and Keen,
+who were in the schoolroom, called them up and told them to save the
+children, and rushed upstairs, nearly choked, calling 'Fire!'
+
+"Mrs. Wade, Miss Baylis, Miss Moore, all came out. Downstairs I ran
+again and unfastened the front door, and went to the corner of the
+verandah. Philips was getting out the children, and the flames were
+coming on with frightful rapidity; it was blowing a perfect
+hurricane, and the whole building was enveloped in smoke and ashes; I
+ran back half-way upstairs to see if I could get a dress, or my
+cash-box, or watch, but I was too much suffocated, and had to get back
+to the front door. Mrs. Wade, Miss Baylis, and the children, were
+making for the fence. I saw Mr. Thorn, and called to him to search
+again with Philips for the children.
+
+"The intense cold in the snow seemed almost worse to bear than fire.
+We all climbed the fence and ran to the nearest house. Poor Mrs. Wade
+had got her hands frozen, even in that short time, as the thermometer
+was about twelve or fifteen degrees below zero.
+
+"Here we called over the names of the children; some were here, some
+in another house, sitting over the stove with bare legs and only
+their little shirts on. Soon little Robbie was found missing, but
+Philips had lifted him out, and he had been seen running with the
+others; we suppose that the poor child, blinded with smoke, ran to
+the front door, and then went through into the schoolroom, the place
+he knew best, where he must soon have been suffocated. It was all
+over in a few minutes, all around was fearfully bright and lurid. The
+engine came, but was of course too late, the fire spread with such
+terrible rapidity.
+
+"We sat almost stunned with fright and cold. Soon the Shearings and
+Elliotts came, bringing clothes, &c., and we went to dear Mrs.
+Elliott's house in a sleigh. It was not four A.M., and the fire was
+almost out, burning round the verandah and the window-sills.
+
+"Oh, how our hearts went up in thankfulness to God for sparing
+mercies! A few moments more, and we dread to think of what might have
+been. Miss Baylis' door being ajar, the smoke got in; mine was shut,
+my room was free, but I saw the light on the window. Miss Moore was
+in Miss Lowe's bedroom; she could not realise it, and, after being
+first roused, was going to bed again.
+
+"As soon as it was daylight I went with Mr. Thorn to see the ruins.
+All around the melted snow had frozen like iron; the thermometer,
+which was hung on the verandah, was found uninjured; nothing was
+found but a table and one stove; all gone. Books, papers, clothes,
+everything; but there in the blackened ruin lay distinctly the
+charred frame of little Robbie. Mr. Thorn went for Dr. Holden and a
+coffin, and the remains were brought to Mr. Elliott. Dear little
+fellow, he was the most prepared of any of the little ones to go.
+This is such a comfort to me now.
+
+"I had gathered the little ones round me in the evening before the
+fire, when the others were at church, and we had sung some sweet
+hymns. I made Robbie especially stand beside me, and made him sing
+alone. 'I will sing for Jesus,' was the hymn he chose. He sang it
+sweetly. How little did I think in a few hours he would be singing
+the 'new song' before the throne! His history in our book is very
+touching. 'Robert Gray, aged six; a happy little man, who can say
+little or nothing about himself.' The rest of the page is blank, as
+he had never been away from Marchmont. An inquest was held over the
+body. We wished it especially, so that we might have an investigation
+as to the cause of the fire.
+
+"Dearest Annie, when I think what it might have been, and the grief
+of all at home, and the intense sorrow, oh, it makes one so thankful!
+I felt Jesus very precious through it all, recognising His hand in so
+many ways. I had had much blessed communion with Him that Sunday, and
+several seasons of sweet prayer. I can fully realise that for me it
+would have been all right, if the Lord had ordered it otherwise; but
+for the sake of those at home I bless God for life spared, and trust
+earnestly the Lord may give us all increased power and spiritual
+life. Having passed through 'the fire,' may we also receive the
+baptism of the Holy Ghost. And oh, may our lives be more and more
+devoted to His service! Not our own, but bought with a price, may we
+live more and more unto Him who hath loved us!
+
+"Miss Moore was out at nine o'clock in the woodshed; all was safe
+then. Mrs. Wade locked the doors at ten with stable lantern in the
+wood-shed (the boys' summer dining-room), and then all was safe; the
+fire in the kitchen stove was out. She came shivering in to-prayers a
+little after ten. The parlour fire was nearly out, and Miss Baylis
+and I were quite cold. The fire upstairs was not lit, nor had any
+ashes been taken up on Sunday morning. If any had been removed on
+Saturday, they were placed in iron vessels in the first kitchen. The
+fire broke out in the further corner of the wood-shed. The cause is
+so far quite unknown, and will, I suppose, ever remain so.
+
+"I send you the account of the inquest, and other papers, as I know
+well it is better to see and know all particulars. I cannot, however,
+tell of all the kindness and sympathy we have met with--a telegram
+from Mr. Claxton, offering money, &c., Hon. George Alien wishing to
+take the children; Mr. Eason: 'I am praying for you, can I help by
+coming?' numbers of friends coming with clothes of every kind;
+subscriptions got up to start a new Home immediately; sewing
+societies at work and ladies canvassing the town in every direction
+for help to furnish another Home at once. I could not even begin to
+particularise our friends. Mr. Flint came up at eight, begging me to
+come to his house.
+
+"This afternoon we have buried little Robin. The service was held in
+Mr. Elliott's church.
+
+"How often we have thought of home friends during the last few days,
+and longed that you might not hear the news in any way till this
+reaches you, which will be nearly three weeks! and now you must fancy
+us happy at our work again, and as much under the loving care and
+protection of our God as ever, trusting only to Him for everything,
+that whether absent from the body, or still in the flesh, we may be
+more and more filled with faith and love for the Lord's work.
+
+"Wednesday. We seem each day to realise only more fully our
+marvellous escape. The firemen say they never remember such a night,
+nor saw a house burn so rapidly. Now every one is so kind; things
+keep pouring in for the new Home;--it is to be Canadian this time,
+not English. Mr. Flint says he has written to you, telling you all,
+but he could not tell you one quarter of the kindness we have met
+with on every hand.
+
+"Oh, that verse in Isa. lxiv. II, is so expressive:
+
+"'Our beautiful house where we praised Thee is burnt up with fire,
+and all our pleasant things are laid waste.' What a ruin Marchmont is
+now! the blackened ashes all around--nothing but the walls standing.
+I feel such mingled feelings as I look at it--all the happy days we
+have spent there--the holy associations never to return again.
+
+"'We have no continuing city here,' was the text which filled Mr.
+Thorn's mind, and it is one we hope more than ever to keep before us.
+This trial seems to have given the four of us deeper sympathy and
+interest together. So nearly entering eternity together, and yet
+saved, we trust, to render more devoted service to the Master, for
+having passed through this fiery trial.
+
+"I can hardly bear to think of all the sorrow you are feeling for
+us; but oh! let thanksgiving and praise be uppermost. It is the one
+thought that fills our minds. We are wonderful in health, no cold,
+and are as occupied as possible, looking after the children, and
+preparing for the new Home. Happily, Charlie the horse, the sleigh,
+and the buffalo robes are safe, and most useful we find them now.
+
+"I am so thankful that it will be nearly three weeks ere you know,
+and you must think of it as past and gone, and, if possible, just at
+first see the beginning of great good in making the work more known,
+and rousing the sympathies of others."
+
+
+      What, Marchmont gone!
+  That pleasant Home nought but a memory now;
+  And yet, in humble thankfulness we bow,--
+      Father, Thy will be done.
+
+      It was but lent:
+  Thou wilt not that Thy children fix their heart
+  On aught below: theirs is a better part--
+      A treasury unspent.
+
+      Still are its memories dear!
+  The maple shadows that around it lay,
+  Stirred by the breezes from the silvery bay,
+      Or bathed in moonlight clear--
+
+      How fair were they!
+  Lovely when decked with earliest buds of spring,
+  Loveliest when radiant autumn came to fling
+      A glory on each spray.
+
+      Oh home of praise and prayer!
+  Where glad sweet voices raised the morning hymn,
+  Pleaded for blessing in the twilight dim,
+      Or thrilled the midnight air.
+
+      Can we forget
+  The meetings and the partings we have known?
+  The welcome glad, the farewell's sadder tone--
+      Ah, we remember yet.
+
+      We were not there
+  When thro' its halls the fierce destroyer swept;
+  But God was watching, while our dear ones slept--
+      Safe were they in His care.
+
+      All safe with Him;
+  Yes, for our Robbie "sings for Jesus" now
+  In sweeter tones, with far more sunny brow,
+      And eyes no tear's can dim.
+
+      They wait His word--
+  Stanley and Robbie side by side--and we
+  Caught up together with them soon shall be
+      For ever with the Lord.
+
+  S. R. GELDARD.
+
+
+All former kindness was as nothing compared to that now received, as
+will be seen by the following from Miss Bilbrough:--
+
+"BELLEVILLE, _February 2, 1872_.
+
+"I know that many many prayers are now being offered for us, and
+that the Lord is answering them every minute, giving us sustaining
+grace and wisdom, and help as to the future. I knew it would be five
+weeks before I could hear from you, and I could trust that all we
+might arrange here would meet your approval, as it has generally done.
+
+"However, the Belleville people, with Mr. Flint at their head, quite
+took the matter out of my hand, being determined that they would
+provide and furnish themselves a still better house than Marchmont.
+The sympathy awakened is great, and the pleasure of friends at
+hearing that we could have a large substantial house on the Kingston
+Road for our orphan children was equally so. Mr. Flint has secured it
+for three years, the Council paying the rent and taxes, and
+sufficient is already gathered to furnish it. So that when the first
+arrivals come in May, all will be ready for them.
+
+"How good the Lord is! even out of apparent trial He brings the
+good. We had been praying for special blessing, and in this way,
+(strange as it seems to us), we do recognise the answer."
+
+In March, Miss Macpherson writes:--
+
+"BELOVED FRIENDS,--While you are reading this, my pathway will again
+be upon the mighty deep. The Lord willing, I look to leave Liverpool
+by steam-ship 'Scandinavian,' March 7th. Miss Reavell, who has for
+two years been our scribe in the Refuge, accompanies me. Your prayers
+have gone up that blessing may be ours, as a little band of feeble
+workers for our Lord, and if He has been pleased to try our faith by
+the trial of fire, shall we not praise Him for anything His loving
+hand doth send us? And as one has beautifully said, 'What God takes
+it is always gain to lose.' Heaven is nearer now our little Robbie is
+there; Jesus is dearer, and has quickened us all by His constraining
+love.
+
+"My object in going now to Canada without children is twofold.
+Strength being given, my desire is to visit the new districts, where
+I hope in the coming summer to place out the hundreds now under
+excellent training and holy influence here and in Scotland, and to
+find out Christian families who may be willing to receive them on
+arrival. Plead that the Holy Spirit may fill with power those who are
+daily seeking to win these wanderers back to the fold.
+
+"Secondly, I wish to make use of the late sad calamity, and God's
+wonderful interposition in saving life, so that the teaching may not
+be lost upon the hundreds of immortal souls connected with our
+mission."
+
+It is impossible to describe the eagerness with which the arrival of
+these dear friends was looked for, and day after day, those in
+service in and around Belleville would come with the hope of seeing
+them. And among these were former match-box makers, who had been
+rescued from such depths of sorrow; one of whom had already saved
+from her wages sufficient to pay her brother's passage out, besides
+bringing offerings of her own work towards the furnishing of Miss
+Macpherson's room in the new House. Through many dangers they were
+brought safely, in answer to many prayers, but Miss Reavell had
+suffered much on the voyage, and one special instance of the Lord's
+care I cannot help here recording, "They shall abundantly utter the
+memory of Thy great goodness." Miss Reavell had been a most diligent
+and necessary labourer at the Home of Industry night and day. At sea
+her strength seemed to fail; she only existed on oranges, and the
+last orange was gone. In the midst of a fearful storm, signals were
+made by another vessel that they were without food, and the life-boat
+was put off from the steamer, carrying to the distressed vessel a
+barrel of flour and pork In return, a thank-offering came in the
+shape of two boxes of the best oranges, the ship being from Palermo,
+bound for New York with a cargo of fruit. "Even the very hairs of
+your head are all numbered."
+
+The visit of Miss Barber, a Canadian lady of influence, to the Home
+of Industry, was the means of interesting friends in the Eastern
+Townships' Province of Quebec, and of leading them to open a Home at
+Knowlton.
+
+The following letter is from Miss Macpherson:--
+
+"The year's experiment in this new district will enable us to test it
+as to whether it will be a suitable one for our children; if so, it
+will not cost many pounds of English money. The old house we have
+taken was formerly a tavern, and its ball-room will make us an
+excellent dormitory; the rent is only 20 pounds, and is paid entirely
+by a Canadian. Should the children thrive under the fostering care of
+our dear friend Miss Barber (now doubly dear to us all after the
+winter of help she has given us in the East of London), there will be
+no difficulty in establishing a permanent Home, built of brick, half
+of the necessary sum having already been subscribed in and around
+Sheffield, Leeds, and Nottingham; and the other half our friends in
+the province of Quebec have freely offered to collect. Thus will those
+both on this side and at home share the benefits; the old country
+seeing hundreds educated that might otherwise in a few years become
+expensive criminals, and the new country, receiving, ere habits are
+fixed, young life which, in future, will call Canada 'the home of its
+adoption.'
+
+"Though, according to all accounts, this is an uncommonly heavy
+snow-season, I have no fears for the children, the air is so dry and
+clear, and well fitted to invigorate their frames. This morning I
+started about five o'clock, and soon forgot the fear which had crept
+over me but a week ago, when I took my first winter journey among
+these snowy hills. 'Knowledge is power,' and the experience of dangers
+met and passed gives quietness and confidence.
+
+"You will be imagining that owing to these prolonged snow-storms all
+work is stayed. Not so; everything goes on most vigorously--
+lumbering, carting, cutting wood for summer's need. Ladies seem
+always busy; yet as it is often seen, those who have most to do can
+best arrange to be at leisure. There is an education of forethought
+caused by having to watch against the heat and cold; this has deeply
+interested me in the practical manner in which they are going to work
+in furnishing this Eastern Townships' Home. In return for the
+kindness shown to this Mission, may the whole district be spiritually
+blessed, and may our loving Lord be the joy and strength of each
+faithful labourer!
+
+"The heavy calamity that it pleased our Father to send by fire, has
+accomplished in a few weeks that which would otherwise, humanly
+speaking, have taken many years to make known. Our motives and
+principles of service were all new, and even our simple faith and
+trust in prayer were often misunderstood. Though we had travelled
+several thousands of miles in Canada, seeking to stir up Christians
+to aid us in finding and watching over the right home for our
+children, we had no medium on this side like 'The Christian,' by
+which we could communicate with those like-minded, and tell them of
+our burdens.
+
+"The Hon. B. Flint tells us how the hearts of his fellow-townsmen
+were moved with compassion on hearing of the destruction of the
+Children's Home, on that terrible night, and that some of them
+attempted to ascend the hill and offer aid, but had to turn back,
+unable to face the hurricane and tempest.
+
+"The citizens of Belleville have contributed freely towards
+replacing the Home, and the Lord's dear children all over the land
+have sent their love-offerings. The County Council received
+testimonies from many of the homesteads concerning the six hundred
+children placed out round Belleville, and generously contributed 500
+dollars to show their esteem for the work. The funds in hand led Mr.
+Flint, after the withdrawal of the rented house at first proposed, to
+purchase a freehold of three and a quarter acres, possessing a good
+house and out-buildings, which were adapted to our use by the
+addition of dormitories, and furnished by the aid of the ladies of
+Belleville. This Home is now given to us for so long as it shall be
+used by our mission band in connection with the emigration of
+children to this district."
+
+In April, a detachment of thirty elder boys arrived, to be followed
+quickly by others.
+
+In June 1872, when 150 emigrants arrived, 50 children were sent to
+each of the three Homes now opened to receive them, and for several
+years this order was observed, until other arrangements were made to
+meet the growing character of the work.
+
+The following tells of the progress of the Galt Home:--
+
+"Many will wish to know how this Home at Galt shapes itself, and
+would be amused at the varied occupations of the past week.
+
+"A Canadian springtime is very brief, so we have had to buy a span
+of horses and a plough, and, with the aid of other neighbours'
+ploughs, the corn and clover seed will soon be all sown. The ladies
+of several churches have met in the council-chamber, and worked at
+all household gear, others superintending the house arrangements, and
+purchasing necessary things.
+
+"My part has been that of a faithful recipient, giving praise from
+hour to hour to Him who hath laid my every burden here on His own
+children's hearts. The past little season has been to me a precious
+rest-time, seeing others work. We expect to be all in order by the
+arrival of our next party. The threshing-floor we have transformed
+into a dining-room; one of the barns is fitted up as a dormitory. The
+chaff-house makes a lavatory; and, from the interest around, we do
+not expect to keep our little men very long out of the homes waiting
+for them.
+
+"The love-tokens here, as at home, are varied in their character.
+Our farmer's wife has set us up with poultry, another with eggs; a
+little boy brought us his pet hen as an offering; indeed, wherever we
+turn, some kind thought is shown, and our hearts are gladdened, and
+our faith is able to rejoice at the prospect of returning home, and
+gathering up another thousand precious young immortals from the
+depths of our sin-stricken cities, and placing them out in homes
+where Jesus is loved."
+
+In June, Miss Macpherson was welcomed back with warm thanksgivings,
+having left the Home at Galt under the wise and loving care of her
+faithful companion, Miss Reavell. In after years Mr. and Mrs. Merry
+devoted themselves chiefly to this branch of the work, and have been
+the watchful and tender foster parents of this ever-varying family.
+It would be hard to say whether Mrs. Merry's presence was more valued
+here, or among the sorrowful widowed mothers in Spitalfields.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER V.
+
+1872-1874.
+
+Letter from Rev. A. M. W. Christopher--Letter from Gulf of St.
+Lawrence-Mrs. Birt's Sheltering Home, Liverpool--Letter to Mrs.
+Merry--Letter from Canada--Miss Macpherson's return to England--
+Letter of cheer for Dr. Barnardo--Removal to Hackney Home.
+
+
+Though human praise is not sought, we cannot but feel peculiar
+pleasure in giving the following testimony from a servant of the Lord
+so much revered as the Rev, A. M. W. Christopher of Oxford:--
+
+"Of all the works of Christian benevolence which the great love of
+Christ constrains His servants to carry on, with which I have become
+personally acquainted, not one, has impressed me more deeply, by its
+great usefulness, than the work of God carried on by Miss Macpherson
+and her fellow-labourers. She has in three years transplanted more
+than twelve hundred boys and girls from almost hopeless circumstances
+of misery and temptation in Great Britain, to healthy, happy,
+industrious homes in Canada. And this has not been all; daily efforts
+have been made in faith and love during the period of training, and
+on the voyage, and in the Distributing Homes in Canada, to win these
+young hearts for Christ by means of the Gospel. There can be no doubt
+that God has blessed these labours of love to bring many to Himself
+in the Lord Jesus.
+
+"When I was in Canada last September, I made three special journeys
+expressly to visit Miss Macpherson's three 'Distributing Homes' at
+Galt, Belleville, and Knowlton, respectively in the west, centre, and
+east of the Dominion.
+
+"On September 10, 1872, I left Toronto at 5.30 A.M., and travelled
+113 miles to the east along the Grand Trunk Railway to Belleville,
+which is 220 miles west of Montreal. I took the Lady Superintendent,
+Miss Bilbrough, by surprise. Her sister was with her, having lately
+brought over a hundred boys. These two young but experienced
+Christians are evidently full of faith and energy and delight in
+their work and of lore to the children. About a thousand boys and
+girls brought out, or sent out by Miss Macpherson, had passed through
+the Home in three years. She has herself placed out 800 boys and
+girls, 600 of whom are in homes around Belleville. She meets with the
+kindest reception from the farmers with whom she has placed these
+children. _She could place out a thousand more if they were at once
+sent out_, the demand is so great. All the orphan children under
+nine years of age are adopted by farmers who have no children, to be
+treated exactly as if they were their own. Miss Bilbrough, and also
+the Lady Superintendents at Galt and Knowlton, never place a child in
+a home unless the farmer brings a testimonial from his minister.
+
+"The burning of the Home very much touched the people of Canada, who
+had learned to appreciate the efforts for good connected with it; and,
+unasked for, dollars from kind Canadians poured in. Miss Bilbrough had
+daily to write thanks to many. More than 3000 dollars (600 pounds)
+were soon sent in, and instead of renting a house, they were able to
+buy the first-rate one they now occupy, and which was given to Miss
+Macpherson, with so much kind feeling, by the Canadians.
+
+"I was equally interested in the work of Miss Reavell in the Home at
+Galt, to the west of Toronto. This had only been established a few
+months before I visited it. Here also I was greatly impressed by the
+patient, painstaking Christian lore of those who had charge of the
+children. The children looked healthy, and happy, and ready for work.
+
+"The last Home I visited was at Knowlton, an eastern township of the
+Quebec Province, south of the St. Lawrence. I heard that Miss Barber,
+the Lady Superintendent, was nursing some of the children who had the
+smallpox. I went to see her. It was quite clear that the love of
+Christ constrained her to devote herself with all her heart and
+strength to the children committed to her care. I spoke with the
+uninfected children before I saw her. I was interested to see how
+accustomed they had been whilst in this Home to be treated with love.
+Soon three little ones climbed upon my knees, whilst I talked of
+Jesus to them and the elder ones. Miss Barber is a lady of good
+position, the half-sister of the excellent Judge of that district,
+lately Minister of Agriculture in the Dominion Government. In early
+life she had very bad health, but has been raised up frond great
+weakness to work most diligently for Christ among the children who
+pass through her Home. Her brother, the Judge, and his wife, who live
+at Knowlton, zealously do all they can to help the good work.
+
+"Many in England know better than I do the great work for God, carried
+on in connection with Miss Macpherson's 'Home of Industry,' Commercial
+Street, Spitalfields, and the similar Homes at Glasgow, Edinburgh,
+Dublin, and Liverpool. Others may visit these, and have their hearts
+stirred up to help forward the work by what they see in those Homes;
+but Canada is a great way off, and, as an independent witness, I
+desire to bear the strongest testimony to the Christian usefulness of
+the work, and to the faithful, the wise and careful manner in which it
+is carried on. A far greater number of children might be thus
+transplanted with the best results, under God's blessing, if
+sufficient means were supplied to Miss Macpherson. May I not hope that
+the great love of Christ will constrain those who read this paper to
+send help promptly, so that this work may be extended, and that many
+more children may be rescued. Remember, dear reader, the love of your
+Saviour for little children. _'Look not every man on his own things,
+but every man also on the things of others. Let this mind be in you,
+which, was also in Christ Jesus'_ (Phil ii. 4, 5). 10 pounds will fit
+out, and pay the passage of a child. How can 10 pounds be better
+spent? Try, dear reader, and raise 10 pounds among your friends, if
+you cannot give it yourself. Or do what you can, however little that
+may seem to you to be. The matter is urgent, the season is passing
+away. Pray send help at once, and strive to interest your friends in
+the work. How many more might be rescued! What a contrast there is
+between the photographs of the miserable, hopeless children, taken
+when they are received at the Homes in this country, and the
+photographs of the same children after they have been a few months in
+Canada; I have many such contrasts with me. They would move you to
+help this work of love. But. the love of Christ must be the great
+motive; yet we should not forget that the Holy Spirit taught St. Paul
+to write, _'He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and
+he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man
+according as he purposeth in his heart so let him give: not grudgingly
+or of necessity, for God loveth a cheerful giver'_ (2 Cor. ix. 6, 7)."
+
+In May of this year, Miss Macpherson took out another party of young
+emigrants, and writes as follows:--
+
+_"On board 'Circassian,' Gulf of St. Lawrence, May 5th, 1873._
+
+"MY DEAR FELLOW-WORKERS,--Hitherto our blessed experience has been
+that 'The beloved of the Lord shall dwell in safety by Him, and the
+Lord shall cover him all day long;' 'The eternal God is thy refuge,
+and underneath are the everlasting arms.' Our song is one of
+unmingled praise, and our little band is strengthened and invigorated
+by the voyage,--no storm permitted to alarm us by day or night We are
+now entering the mighty Gulf, and passing through fields of ice; but
+'He who hath compassed the waters with bounds, and divided the sea
+with His power,' maketh a right way for us and our little ones."
+
+"Morning and evening, my dear fellow-workers have been enabled to
+continue sowing precious seed in these young hearts, so soon to bid
+us farewell. Our steerage has been the rendezvous, when weather
+permitted, of those who love praise and prayer. In quietness and rest
+we have sought to renew our strength by waiting upon the Lord;
+holding up your hands by prayer, dear fellow-labourers, grasping the
+precious fulness of the promises, for you as well as for ourselves,
+that every opportunity given you upon Rag-market, in the courts and
+sorrowful dens around our Home, in every small room prayer-meeting,
+or-when you gather around the Word, may have been used, and
+accompanied by the 'demonstration of the Spirit' and signs following."
+
+"We have to-day realised answers to your prayers for us, whilst
+cutting through miles of ice, going at the rate of two knots an hour,
+but all has been peace and safety."
+
+"We are now beyond the vast acres of frozen sea, and every hour
+brings us into a warmer climate, and nearer to our desired haven.
+Those interested in our little band, may rest assured it has been a
+happy voyage with each one. Not _one_ case of disobedience has
+caused us anxiety. Early to sleep and early on deck has given good
+appetites, as all their brown and rosy cheeks do testify. At this
+point of our journey we recall the experience of May 1870, entering a
+way unpassed heretofore. Now can we praise with a full heart, and
+testify that His own 'I wills,' in Isa. xlii. 16, have been realised
+by us as a little band.
+
+"We are now about to land with our 1520th child, our twelfth voyage,
+without a storm, thousands of welcomes from warm hearts awaiting us.
+Open doors in scores of towns around each of our three missionary
+centres, ready to receive the evangelists who travel with us. We ask
+continued prayers that they may be young Stephens, filled with faith
+and power, and that we maybe guided in the right distribution of the
+tracts and books we carry with us.
+
+"And oh, dear pleaders, remember the many lonely, little hearts we
+are finding homes for; it is very sorrowful work unbinding, as it
+were, the little twinings their sweet, obedient ways have already
+bound around us. Many were writing letters this morning ready to post
+when landing, but very many had not a love-link to earth. One little
+fellow said, 'I ain't got nobody to write to but you.' The one most
+lonely as to earth's relationships will soon become a solitary one
+set in a family; and again, if permitted, we shall return and gather
+in another family from the sad, sad, million-peopled city.--Yours, in
+the bonds of the Gospel,
+
+"Annie Macpherson.
+
+"P. S.--May 7. We have landed under the brightest sunshine, on a
+warm, balmy June-like day, feeling deeply thankful for all our
+heavenly Father's mercies. A deputation of Quebec Christian sisters
+awaited our touching the shore. What a bond is ours in Christ Jesus!"
+
+Allusion has been made to the Home opened by Mrs. Birt at Liverpool;
+and the following letter will show the heart-rending nature of the
+scenes occurring there as in London:--
+
+"August 7.
+
+"Dear Friends,--On the 12th of May last we opened the above Home,
+and there were present on the occasion more ladies and gentlemen
+whose hearty sympathy seemed with us, than the large room could
+comfortably hold. One little destitute fellow was presented as the
+first to enter for protection and kindly care. Since then
+_ninety_ poor tiny creatures have been admitted, and these alike
+share in the love, attention, and comfort found within the walls of
+this happy Home.
+
+"Through the great kindness of the friend who placed the premises at
+our disposal, we have obtained an additional room, which enables us
+to rescue some little girls, many of whom are orphans, who dragged
+out a miserable existence by begging for food, and sleeping wherever
+they could find shelter; others, worse off, were, through their
+relationship, running every risk of being reared to a life of infamy
+and ruin. Others are the children of widowed mothers, who say they
+are willing to work, but finding none of a continuous character, have
+rapidly sunk to a condition of wretchedness from which it seems
+impossible they can rise.
+
+"Seventy have rapidly progressed, and are so obedient and anxious to
+please, that so far as training in this country is concerned, they
+are in a fit state of preparedness for emigration to Canada; and from
+the statements received from our sister, Miss Macpherson, of the
+increased and increasing demand from Canadian families for useful
+boys and girls, to assist them in their house and farm duties, we do
+think that these should be taken without delay to the comfortable
+homes waiting to receive them,--homes in which they will be trained
+to habits of industry, usefulness, and saving.
+
+"The boys' clothes are near completion, and the girls' outfits are
+being made, and greatly helped on by the kind-hearted exertions of
+Christian ladies in Liverpool and Birkenhead, who have brought to the
+Sheltering Home their own sewing-machines, and plied them at full
+speed on our behalf at the weekly sewing-meetings held on Wednesdays,
+from eleven till five P.M. At these gatherings, much to the
+gratification of the ladies, the little ones whose garments they were
+sewing, have sung for their pleasure children's sweet hymns of praise
+to Him by whose love they were being cared for.
+
+"My heart, and the hearts of my few but loving helpers who live with
+me in the Home, have been nearly broken this afternoon by witnessing
+a sight so terrible, that we hope and pray we may never see the like
+again. A most depraved, drunken, and wicked father, set on by two
+women more wicked (because more cunning) than himself, dragged out of
+our Home by main force two dear little girls he had himself, when
+more sober, besought us many times to take in. They knelt, they
+prayed, they begged as for dear life to be left in the Home; when,
+refused by him again and again, they saw he was urged on by the women
+to drag them out, they gave way to their poor little wills and
+screamed, 'I won't go with you! I won't go with you! I know where you
+will take us to! You never cared one bit for us, but now, that we are
+clean and comfortable, and learning to read, you wish to take me
+back. If you do, I will get something to take my life away, rather
+than live with you!' And by the man's sheer force they were carried
+screaming from the Home; and the last thing we heard, through their
+shrieks, was the father uttering threats we cannot repeat. I ran to
+my little room to hide myself and weep; but I heard them screaming
+still, as the poor girls made one more desperate effort at
+resistance. Though now it is three hours since, I hear their
+screaming yet; and, dear friends, I think I shall hear it till I die.
+As a little band, we are completely petrified, bruised, and sore,
+quivering in every nerve, looking up earnestly to God to know His
+Will, and praying that we may have all the other dear ones left to
+train for Him; for the Roman Catholic spirit is bitterness itself
+against thus teaching the little ones.
+
+ "'Jesus loves me, this I know,
+   For the Bible tells me so;
+   Little ones to Him belong,
+   They are weak, but He is strong.'
+
+"Dear friends, pray for our little ones. Money is useful, personal
+help is useful; the thoughtful gifts we receive from time to time are
+useful; but prayer--which 'moves the hand that moves the world'--is
+more useful than all beside. Pray for our children; for those we
+purpose taking to new homes in a distant land, that they may never
+disgrace the Home they have been sheltered in; and for those who have
+been torn away from us, that they may be preserved from temptation,
+and from becoming a curse. Then shall we joyfully take them forth,
+and in God's good time return, and again fill up this spacious Home,
+and feel it the greatest privilege of our life to labour among the
+poor neglected little ones of the streets of these large cities.
+Share then in the blessing wrapped up in the King's word, 'Inasmuch
+as you have done it unto one of the least of these My brethren, ye
+have done it unto Me.'"
+
+How great is the contrast in turning from these heart-rending
+details, to the following letters from across the Atlantic:--
+
+"BELLEVILLE, _June 7th, 1873_.
+
+"My dear Mrs. Merry,--I wish you had been with us to-day, and seen
+part of the result of all your patient toil and joyous service for
+the Lord daring the past five years' work among His little ones.
+
+"Knowing the joy it would be to so many of them to see dear Miss
+Macpherson, we sent out postal-card invitations to those living
+within 25 miles. Some few were unable to accept; but between seventy
+and eighty children, with their employers, came in one by one,
+looking so brown and healthy. You would hardly recognise in the tall,
+slim youth, now quite a help to his master, a carpenter by trade, the
+little, tender-hearted George M--, eldest of three orphan brothers.
+It hardly seems three years ago since their father stood up in a
+gathering of Christians, and with failing breath declared what the
+Lord had done for his soul. Then you remember how quietly he passed
+away, leaving his three boys entirely in Miss Macpherson's care. All
+doing so well in Canada--Fred and little Johnnie still in their first
+homes.
+
+"One great pleasure of the children was to roam over the Home under
+the orchard blossoms, glancing over the books of photographs and
+recognising some friend or mate with whom some far different days had
+been spent. Among the attractions were the tables of toys, pictures,
+books, &c., sent out by English friends; and here the little ones
+spent some of their hoarded cents, thinking so much of anything
+really English. About twelve o'clock we gathered in the flower garden
+in front, while sandwiches, buns, and milk were passed round among
+the children. Your sister sat with them chatting to them of old
+times, and answering many questions as to former companions and still
+loved though often silent English friends. Can you picture the eager
+listeners to the familiar voice of one who was to them the link
+between the sorrowful past and the happy future?--a Bible lesson on
+the lost sheep. My eyes often filled with tears when I looked at
+their bright faces, and blessed God for the open door for them in
+this country. There stood Jamie D--, who, with his little brother
+Hughie, formed one of the saddest photographs of childish wretchedness
+even Glasgow streets could produce; so bright, so well-dressed,
+though still with a little of the old look of childish care.
+William C--, the little fellow of four years old, whose mother died
+in India, and the father on his return sank in a London hospital,
+leaving little Willie friendless, was here with a lovely bunch of
+hot-house flowers ready to present to Miss Macpherson, and to receive
+from her one of the beautifully illustrated scrap-books made by
+little English children. Willie has been nearly three years in his
+happy home, surrounded by all the influences of education and
+refinement.
+
+"Now the friends were gathering thickly, and listened while an
+earnest address was given to the boys by Miss Macpherson. When she
+ceased, first one and then another gentleman stood up and gave their
+earnest, hearty sympathy with and approval of the work, and of the
+character of the boys. And here I must tell you, in passing, we
+attribute much to the loving, tender training of your Hampton Home.
+It is not that Canadian farmers would put up with _anything_, or
+that a bad boy is so useful that his faults are overlooked; for here
+every single boy is thoroughly known, and discussed over all the
+country side. Mr. Grover, from the village of Colborne, quite cheered
+our hearts with the good accounts of the twenty in his neighbourhood,
+most of whom have joined his classes, and by their steady industrious
+conduct are recommending themselves.
+
+"He said, 'I do not speak without personal experience. W. O--- has
+been two years in my employ, and a more truthful, upright, honest
+boy, I would not wish to have; he has left now to learn further about
+farming, and I immediately applied for another one from Marchmont,
+and believe W. S--- will prove as successful and honest a servant.'
+Then the Rev. William Bell stood up and bore testimony to your
+favourite Tommy--one of the rescues from Mr. Holland's Shelter, in
+1869. 'I have boarded now over a year in the good farmer's home,
+where Tommy S---lives. He is as good, and truthful, and honest a boy
+as I would wish to have about a house; and his master so appreciates
+his services that he gives him fifty dollars for his first year.
+These boys are in every way a blessing, and advantage to our
+country.' Mr. V., who has been already alluded to, said, 'I sought
+guidance and direction from the Lord before I came to the Home, now
+nearly three years ago, and then I only intended to take one boy; I
+have never regretted I took two. Except one or two days, they have
+never missed school; indeed I do not believe any one could hire them
+to stay away. I know that their labour morning and evening repays me
+for any expense I am at, and they can be at school all the time.'
+Miss Macpherson then told these two boys, F--- and T---, of her
+last visit to their grandmother in the tidy attic in Bethnal Green,
+and how pleased she was to receive the five dollars they had sent
+her. Mr. Ward, a farmer from Sidney, had brought his little boy,
+Tommy S---; and Johnnie, the brother, had come from a home across
+the Bay of Quinte. So there was a touching meeting, and many
+experiences for the two brothers to relate, during one month's
+absence. Mr. Ward told how he intended to educate his boy, and
+trusted he might yet fill some prominent position, for which by
+natural gifts he seemed well qualified. Speaking of the religious
+character of the work, he said, 'I asked him who had taught him so
+much of Jesus? He told me he did not even know who He was till he was
+taken into the Refuge; but now he knows about Him, and of His love
+for little children.' I know you will like to hear particulars of H.
+W---, whose sad history excited so much sympathy, and for whom the
+noble-man's little son gave up his pet pony that he might have the
+money to emigrate him. Well, you could not tell the round-faced,
+happy boy, to be the same. He brought four dollars he had earned
+towards his passage money; is in a good home, and doing well. Also of
+George and Mary F---, who met, after ten months' separation, so
+changed that they hardly recognised each other. How it would cheer
+their kind rescuer's heart (Mr. George Holland) could he see them
+now! but I knew nothing, not even such joy as this, could tempt him
+away from his special work; so I sent the children, to their great
+delight, to the town to get their likenesses taken to send him.
+
+"Altogether the day was a most happy one. But no onlooker could
+fully understand the deep, rich joy of looking into those happy
+faces. Only those who had watched over and prayed with them from the
+beginning could at all enter into this peculiar feeling; and many
+earnest prayers ascended that these loving, tender hearts might be
+won for the Saviour, and from among them many ambassadors for Jesus
+might yet go forth. And for you too, dear friend, that you may be
+strengthened and helped; ever remembering the promise, 'Cast thy
+bread upon the waters; for thou shalt find it after many days'
+(Eccles. xi. i).--Yours, in sweet work for the Lord,
+
+"Ellen A. Bilbrough."
+
+"My very dear Sister,--Could you but see me this morning, started on
+my peregrinations in these snowy regions, you would be amazed. The
+poor worn head perfectly well, after a whole week in the quiet,
+restful Home at Knowlton, where children are being trained,
+sewing-meetings and Bible-readings held, farmers conversed with, and
+my privilege has been to hold up the hands of my two companions, who
+went forth to address Sunday-schools or to preach the gospel.
+
+"Fancy me starting yesterday morning, fixed up in my delightfully
+warm fur cloak, and many other ingenious devices, to defy the cold,
+wintry blast, a drive of eighteen miles. During the journey we
+stopped twice. The first time we met with one of our once poor,
+pale-faced rescues, Katie D---. What a change, now happy and useful,
+compared to the time when we sheltered her from the dreaded return of
+her drunken father from prison!
+
+"As the night closed in, the cold caused us to hasten to our
+journey's end as quickly as the strength of our Home horse would
+admit of. But cheery was it to be told by our friend, as we passed
+one farmhouse after another, 'We have a boy here and a girl there
+doing well.' Sometimes it would be, 'We have had to move a boy; his
+temper did not suit; but since he has been back to the Home, and
+placed out again with a firmer master, he is doing much better.' A
+very hearty Canadian welcome awaited us. Ushered into a warm room,
+our wraps taken off, soon we were seated, enjoying a 'high' tea. It
+snowed all night, and drifted in at every crevice of our bedroom
+window.
+
+"Snow fell all day, and to my idea it seemed improbable for many to
+gather for a meeting. The village street was enlivened all day by the
+constant passing of the sleighs, with merry jingle of bells. It was
+indeed a new scene to witness the gathering of a meeting to hear of
+the orphan and destitute children, whose cause we had come to plead,
+and contradict a report which had gone forth in their district, that
+it was a mass of jail-birds we had brought from England.
+
+"As we arrived, a farmer kindly offered to broom the snow from our
+feet--a process all seemed prepared to do for each other. Then, in a
+good-sized hall, about fifty of all ages gathered around an immense
+stove--ministers, doctors, and farmers, with their belongings. Chairs
+in front of the stove were set for the minister and myself.
+
+"After singing 'Rock of Ages,' etc., and prayer, it was so like a
+family, that it became easy just to tell real story after story as to
+how we find the children, where the means come from, and what is
+required of those who receive them.
+
+"The minister then present was one who, having heard of the work at
+the commencement; had gone to the Home and received little Bessie,
+aged ten. She now came up and gave me a hearty kiss, and then, so
+childlike, showed me her new winter garments. Now who was Bessie? The
+child of a surgeon who had rained his family by intemperance. The
+mother, a teacher in a ladies' school in Germany, earning her own
+bread, after a long and heavy struggle. Bessie is loved and is being
+educated in everything to make her a useful woman.
+
+"Next morning we started for visits to several children. Found the
+first child gone to school. We saw her looking well as we passed the
+school-house, and called her out. All we saw that day filled our
+hearts with deepest thankfulness. The meeting in the evening was held
+in the Congregational Church, well warmed and lighted, and a most
+intelligent-looking gathering. Ere long I espied one of the orphan
+lads, and called him to me, that he might speak for himself, knowing
+that his own words would endorse the work more forcibly than anything
+I could say. He was a bright, intellectual looking youth of fourteen,
+who in a most manly way answered me a few questions. In this way we
+are securing the prayers of God's dear children, and, we trust,
+opening many a heart and home for those who may yet come forth from
+the dens of sin and iniquity of our great cities.
+
+"Our Canadian horse seemed to enjoy the snow as much as we did, even
+though the depth had tripled since our leaving home. How much on this
+journey we have learnt of the continued loving-kindness of our
+covenant-keeping God, making our fears fly, and giving protection
+from the stormy blasts, in forms so comparatively new to us. Every
+person is so kind to us that we are so glad we have been led to yield
+to this service as a child. Many a door, we trust, will soon be wide
+open for earnest evangelists to come and be fresh voices, cheering
+our brethren who are labouring on in these small towns away from the
+front.
+
+"Pray on for us, as a band, that we take not one step _before_
+the Lord, but that we hold not back on account of our weakness or the
+fear of man. Ask for us that we may each one live so close to the
+Lord, that we may be fitted to deal personally with those we meet
+with.
+
+"We are frequently holding up your hands and praying that daily the
+Lord will send the means with the children, and that you all be
+sustained in health. Grace and peace be with you all--Yours, in sweet
+fellowship, A. MP.
+
+"Eastern Townships, Prov. of Quebec, November 18, 1873."
+
+In March, 1874, Miss Macpherson returned from Canada filled with
+praise for the encouragement met with. She had been enabled to plead
+the cause of her children before many in positions of influence,
+judges, merchants, lawyers, and doctors. A choice of two hundred
+homes, amidst the love and affluence of that country, were now
+awaiting her little rescued ones. Her own joy was increased by
+receiving the letter of which she thus writes:--
+
+"The enclosed letter will cheer our brother Dr. Barnardo, by showing
+what a home God has provided for a dear little boy he was permitted
+to rescue and train. Surely the departed mother, from whom our
+brother received the child, would feel that the Lord is indeed the
+Father of the fatherless.
+
+'DEAR MISS,--I embrace this early opportunity of letting you know
+how well pleased we all are with, and how much we like, little Henry
+Tuppen. He is such a willing, obedient, and loving fellow, he has won
+all our hearts, and we feel very much attached to him already. Many,
+very many thanks to you and your fellow-labourers for the invaluable,
+yes, priceless, lessons he has received under your kind care. Surely
+this is much more than "the cup of cold water," and "you shall in no
+wise lose your reward." Oh, may we discharge our duty as you have
+towards this dear little orphan! My visit to you and your home that
+morning was a great blessing to me; never shall I forget it. To hear
+that dear little fellow sing "Bright Jewels," and look around over
+the group of little ones, far from native home, and father and
+mother, brother and sister, and think, "These are the jewels,
+precious jewels," it seemed to bring heaven near. And truly the
+Saviour was present. I never think of it but the tear starts, and a
+silent prayer is offered that the Lord will give them all good
+Christian homes, and that they may be all 'bright jewels,' and great
+shall be your reward. Their heavenly Father sees it all.
+
+'But I am forgetting my main object in writing to you, which is to
+ask you if the little girl, the elder of the two whom we saw, is yet
+provided with a home. If not, we have room for her, and should be
+glad to have her. She would be such good company for my sister, who
+is at home with mother. She would be treated in every way as a
+daughter and a sister. Father is very sorry he did not bring her that
+morning. It seems he thought of it then, but wished to talk it over
+with the rest of the family.'"
+
+Miss Macpherson adds:--
+
+"Who is the little girl asked for to become a daughter and sister?
+None other than the little Eliza who was found deserted seven years
+ago, when only a few weeks old, and who has been most carefully
+trained since then by our beloved sister-labourer, Miss Mittendorf,
+whose toil among infant wanderers deserves the deepest gratitude of
+the children of God."
+
+The Homes at Hampton, endeared as they were by recollections of many
+blessings, were this year vacated. The distance from Spitalfields had
+always been a great strain on the strength of wearied workers, and
+both time and fatigue were spared by removal to Hackney.
+
+The opening of this Home is thus mentioned:--
+
+_November 5_, 1874.
+
+"On Saturday, the New Home situated in London-fields was opened with
+prayer and thanksgiving. It consists of two large old-fashioned
+houses thrown into one, and the situation is, for the neighbourhood,
+remarkably open and airy. Many friends assembled, Mr. Dobbin
+presided, and suggested, at the opening of the meeting, an analogy
+between the Home of Industry, with its various stations, and the pool
+of Bethesda 'having five porches.' Much prayer, and praise followed,
+and worshipful hearts told themselves out in love and adoration. Such
+hymns as 'Call them in,' 'Till He come,' and 'More to Follow,' aptly
+expressed the aspirations and hopes of the earnest workers. Mr.
+Merry, Mr. Maude, and others spoke, and then Mrs. Birt, only two days
+since returned from Nova Scotia, gave accounts of the success of the
+recent voyage, when eighty-three rescued children found happy homes
+on the other side of the water, and most touching particulars of the
+death of little Dickie, who went actually into the earthly harbour,
+and entered the heavenly haven of rest at the same time. In the
+bustle of arrival, 'he was not, for God took him.'"
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VI.
+
+1875-1877.
+
+Mrs. Way's sewing--class for Jewesses--Bible Flower Mission--George
+Clarice--Incidents in home work--The Lord's Day--Diary at sea--
+Letters of cheer from Canada.
+
+
+The Home of Industry has been already likened to the Pool of
+Bethesda with its fine porches. Many sights there have been peculiar
+to itself, and in no instance has this in past years been more
+remarkable, than in the meeting for Jewesses, which has been carried
+on ever since the year 1870. From fifty to seventy daughters of
+Israel are gathered weekly, through the Lord's blessing on the
+patient, unwearied labours of his honoured servant Mrs. Way. Greatly
+indeed should she be honoured, for she diligently sought out these
+lost sheep, when few comparatively could be found to "care for their
+souls." When first told of "the name at which every knee shall bow,"
+much scorn and contempt were manifested, but Mrs. Way is now cheered
+by many signs of the Spirit's work, and when a hymn of praise to the
+"Crucified One," is heard from the inner hall on the ground floor,
+visitors may be startled to know the voices are those of Hebrew
+mothers.
+
+Again the Pool of Bethesda is brought to mind, as love for the sick
+and suffering is shown in a way hitherto unthought of. In 1875, the
+Home of Industry became a centre of the now well-known Bible Flower
+Mission. One of the much-loved helpers recorded this touching
+incident:--
+
+"In the early spring of 1874, a snowdrop, primrose, and two or three
+violets which had been casually enclosed in a letter from an East-end
+worker to Mrs. Merry, were passed round her sewing class of 200 poor
+old widows, 'for each to have a smell,' and then divided and given to
+three dying Christians, one of whom breathed her last fondly clasping
+them. From that time flowers were collected through the medium of
+'Woman's Work,' etc., and during the season distributed by the ladies
+at the Home of Industry among the sick in the neighbouring courts,
+and in different hospitals.
+
+"Again the hedges, tipped with tiny coral buds, primroses, and
+daffodils peeping up amid the brushwood, golden-eyed celandines and
+daisies lifting their sweet faces with smiles of welcome, remind us
+of the near approach of the bright spring-time. But the heart is
+saddened, and the joy of seeing this fresh burst of resurrection--
+loveliness is clouded, when we turn to gloomy, stifling courts and
+lanes in the crowded cities, where gleams of sunshine scarce ever
+penetrate; the lives of whose miserable inhabitants are yet more
+utterly devoid of brightness; to whom the voice of spring is an
+unmeaning sound; to sick ones in these courts, who have no easier
+couch for the pain-filled limbs than a heap of shavings on the hard
+floor of a room filled with noisy children, and disorderly men and
+women; to other sufferers tossing feverishly in hospital wards, with
+nothing softer for the tired eyes to rest on than the endless stretch
+of whitewashed walls, the background of long rows of patients whose
+sad pale cheeks vie in whiteness with the sheets and walls: and the
+cry ascends?
+
+"'Oh, that a tithe of the wealth of fragrant, many-coloured flowers
+so lavishly spread over gardens, fields, and hedgerows, could be
+brought to cheer those who so dearly prize each separate bloom!'
+
+"And once more down, deeper down, into the haunts of vice, smiling
+so sweetly with the radiance of heavensent gifts, these messengers
+may go--ready-made missionaries--to open doors and hearts fast locked
+hitherto, but which must yield to their gentle influence; and thus
+prepare the way for the ministry of the word of salvation.
+
+"Oh, that men and women surrounded by loveliness could see as the
+angels do!--strong natures, hardened by years of sin, whose stony
+hearts are melted at sight of the flowers, and weep (as only such
+can) when the deep hidden springs are touched, and memory recalls
+days of childhood's innocence, long, long past; lessons in that
+village Sabbath-school of the holy God; the story of the Son of His
+love dying in die stead of guilty sinners, to raise them to the
+bright, pure land above, where is no sin, no curse, no sorrow, but
+cloudless day and endless rest and joy; and the spotless flowers seem
+to beckon them onwards and upwards, to seek and find the way thither;
+for are not the flowers one of the first links in that chain of love
+which draws the poor, wearied, sinful heart up to God and heaven?
+
+"Ah! and would to God the country folk might hear! ay, and that the
+sounds could penetrate into the halls and castles of our land; the
+silent cry of hospitals with several hundreds of patients, and but
+rarely a flower?
+
+"'I should _so_ like a little buttercup.'
+
+"And the weary murmur of gladness that steals through the wards when
+a chance bouquet is brought in; and the heartfelt blessings from many
+dying lips on the flower-gatherers.
+
+"'Tell them we may never meet on earth, but we shall thank them in
+heaven.'
+
+"Oh! could the veil be lifted for a brief moment and the dull ears
+quickened to catch the pleading accents of the blessed lord? '_Do it
+unto Me_'? none would longer count their flowers and fruit their
+own, the Royal seal would be seen on each, whether growing wild in
+copses, or carefully nurtured in hothouse and conservatory, and these
+treasures would be poured out for those so sadly needing them, 'For
+Jesus' sake!'"
+
+
+THE BIBLE FLOWER MISSION.
+
+It is needless to say that the appeal thus made has been answered by
+thousands of loving hearts. The work at the Home of Industry is thus
+carried on:--Twice in the week one of the spacious floors is devoted
+to receiving these fragrant treasures, and dear friends from a
+distance come, some of them many miles, and spend one or two hours in
+arranging them, and attaching to each little cluster an ornamented
+card with some message of redeeming love. By twelve o'clock the
+baskets are generally filled, and all assemble to hear, either from
+Miss Macpherson or some other tried servant of the Lord, words of
+counsel and cheer; and then to seek wisdom for the labourers, and to
+spread before the Lord the spiritual needs of those to whom they are
+going,--many cases continually occurring for whom the comfort of
+earnest united prayer is felt.
+
+When the lovely burdens are carried forth, it is hard for the
+bearers to resist the entreaties from many a doorstep for "one
+flower, one single flower." Of the thankfulness with which they are
+received when they reach their destination, we might tell countless
+instances, and of conversions through the messages they bring we
+believe not a few. Indeed who can say where the blessing ends? for
+those who have found a blessing themselves will not keep the cards
+under their pillow, but have sent them to soldier sons in India and
+China, and to sailors afar off upon the sea.
+
+The following lines were written by a poor woman, aged 70, in the
+Mile-end Union:--
+
+
+  "Many an eye with the film of death,
+  With fading pulse, and bating breath,
+  Have cast a look on those things so bright;
+  And perchance a prayer with electric light,
+  Has passed through the brain with magic power,
+  Brought to the heart by a beautiful flower.
+  Beautiful thought to bring to the sad,
+  Sweet bright things to make them glad."
+
+
+Of the numbers of labourers and abundance of texts and flowers
+required, some idea may be formed when it is mentioned that thirteen
+Hospitals, four Unions, some containing over 1000 inmates, and one
+Lunatic Asylum, are provided for from the Home of Industry. Nor is
+this all. The secretary supplies Bible women and city missionaries
+with flowers for solitary sick ones at home, and receives constant
+appeals from various, missions for these bright messengers of God's
+love.
+
+Who can read the following without praise to the Giver of every good
+and perfect gift? Those who knew the condition of Spain had earnestly
+prayed for evangelists for that dark land. One (Senor Previ) was
+raised up through the instrumentality of the Bible Flower Mission,
+and the following extract, from the report of a workers' meeting, as
+given in the "Christian," tells of his conversion, and the way in
+which the Lord led a fellow-labourer to join him in this almost
+untrodden path.
+
+"He came from Malaga in the summer of 1875 to the Ophthalmic
+Hospital, Moorfields, for treatment. One afternoon, two ladies
+belonging to the 'Bible Flower Mission' at the Home of Industry,
+brought flowers and texts to give to the patients. One of the
+visitors was about to offer a bouquet to the Spaniard, Senor Previ,
+when the nurse remarked, 'It's of no use giving him a text, for he is
+a Roman Catholic, and besides he can't speak a word of English.'
+'Never mind,' was the reply, 'I will offer him a bunch of flowers,
+and then see what I can do.' But what about a text? Surely it was the
+Lord's doing that for the _first_ time she had brought one
+written in French; and it was indeed appropriate? 'There is one God,
+and one Mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.' After
+pointing him to the Great High Priest, she asked if he would accept a
+Spanish Bible. This he refused to do, saying, 'No, I cannot, for it
+is a bad, forbidden book; besides, I shall leave the hospital to-morrow
+morning.' 'Nevertheless, I will send you a copy,' was the answer. With
+great difficulty the lady procured a second-hand Spanish Bible, and
+sent it off just in time for him to take away.
+
+"Senor Previ then told us how, after studying that Bible for several
+months, the eyes of his soul were opened to see Jesus as the
+'_one_ Mediator.' Thus was fulfilled that promise so precious to
+all seed-sowers? 'My Word shall not return unto Me void.'
+
+"Soon afterwards he entered Mr. Guinness's College, employing his
+free time in distributing Gospels, &c., on board foreign ships, and
+assisting every Sunday at the services in the Spanish Chapel, thus
+gaining experience for future work in the vineyard. He spoke most
+warmly of the kindness of Miss Macpherson, and the happy hours spent
+in the 'dear Home of Industry,' where, at a previous workers'
+meeting, the ardent desire had first been kindled in his heart to
+tell the good news of Jesus, the 'one Mediator,' to his own
+countrymen. For some time he prayed earnestly that the Lord would
+raise up a friend to go with him. This petition has been fully
+answered.
+
+"Mr. Lund then rose, and told us that whence, student in Stockholm
+the desire to work in Spain had been laid on his heart for nearly
+four years. He studied the language, but, seeing no opening, was on
+the point of starting for America, when he received a letter from Mr.
+Guinness which entirely altered his plans. He came to London, and on
+meeting Senor Previ, offered to accompany him to Spain. The two
+brethren earnestly requested the prayers of the meeting for their new
+and difficult work."
+
+The prayers here offered were more than answered. The first labourer
+has fallen in the field, but others have filled the ranks, and the
+light kindled in a dark place is now shining brightly.
+
+Miss Macpherson's own words here follow:--
+
+"What is the cry from all ends of the earth? For men and women to
+witness of a Saviour's love by His death and resurrection. And we are
+not only to pray the Lord to send forth labourers into the fields
+that are white, but to look at the things we oft call our own as
+belonging to another. There are hundreds of young men and women who
+have been brought to the truth, and whose souls long to be free for
+Christ's service, but they need a helping hand in little things.
+
+"Let us pray that, from this mission, there may be many results such
+as the following letter shows. Six years ago the writer was the
+first-fruits after a winter's labour in the Bedford Institute, Spitalfields
+--a wild, musical Shoreditch youth. We offered to teach him to write.
+The Lord changed him, and he has ever since been a consistent
+Christian. He has been the means of leading his mother to the
+Saviour. He went to Canada, earning sufficient money to place himself
+this winter at Oberlin College. I was asked if I knew of one suited
+to become an artizan-missionary among the tribe of the Basutos. His
+reply encourages our faith that many more, led thus simply on, may
+soon go forth as working missionaries, after the pattern of St Paul,
+reaching souls by their simple, holy life, as well as by their
+preaching."
+
+
+"OBERLIN COLLEGE, OHIO, _March_ 25, 1873.
+
+"My DEAR MOTHER IN THE LORD,--Your welcome letter to hand on the
+22nd, and the book on the Basutos on the 24th. My soul doth bless the
+Lord for all that He hath done for me. My soul was filled with praise
+when I read your proposition to go to Africa. I had been bound in
+spirit for you, as you for me, and I had been asking the Lord for
+many days that He would incline you to write to me.
+
+"Previous to receiving the same, I had cast myself upon the Lord
+more than ever. I could not see my way to run in debt, and I was
+wondering whether I should go and work on the road; but I had a
+burning desire to labour most of all for Christ, and I was longing to
+go South, or somewhere to tell the heathen of Jesus. But when I
+received your letter, I took it as an answer to prayer from the Lord,
+and I could hardly finish reading it before I was telling my landlady
+to rejoice with me. How blessed to trace the hand of the Lord in
+this! I have learned by this to praise the Lord for what He has done,
+and it has enabled my soul to trust Him for what He has promised.
+
+"Believing this call is of God, and after much prayer, I have laid
+myself, all that I am or hope to be, upon the altar, for Africa, to
+labour to lead souls to the Lamb of God, to the blessed Lord Jesus. I
+expect to be consumed by the power of the Holy Ghost, to be fitted
+through Him for the work I am called to, to be used as the ram's
+horn, to be spoken through, to lead souls to Jesus, not to receive
+the praise of men, but of God.
+
+"And I feel led to say, if it is for anything save for the glory of
+God that I accept this call, to be used to the salvation of souls,
+may the Lord take me home to Himself on sea or on land, that I see
+you not in the flesh but in glory.
+
+"I have written this in prayer before God to you, and this is my
+burning desire, to be used of God. I do pray the Lord to keep me, and
+put down all vain-glorying thoughts, which will naturally rise at
+such a point as this, and He is doing it. I want to see Jesus more,
+the value of precious souls, and all the realities I profess.
+
+"I have read 'The Rides in the Mission Field of South Africa.' I was
+much interested, and I had a longing to go, but I could see no place
+for such a hope; I hare lent it to others here to read.
+
+"I am reading 'The Basutos,' and I enjoy it; I am reading in prayer
+that the Lord will show me what things would be necessary to take. I
+shall speak on this point presently.
+
+"I had a letter lately from some of my old neighbours in Muskoka,
+telling me of the conversion of a young man I had often spoken to and
+prayed for. I rejoice that my mother has given me up joyfully for
+Africa, and I am so glad she continues bright in the Lord. I am
+praying that I may have the privilege of seeing them all brought to
+Christ, before I leave for Africa, I cease not to pray for you.--Your
+son in the faith, G. C."
+
+Interest in the Basuto tribe could not but be deepened from the
+touching incident that in February of this year a feast for the
+little matchbox-makers was provided from the contributions of Basuto
+children,--those who had been blessed through the Lord's long-tried
+labourers, Mr. and Mrs. Dyke. How little could any one then
+anticipate the deep waters through which those servants of the Lord
+have since been called to pass.
+
+The workers' meetings at the Home of Industry are often a time of
+mingled joy and sorrow. It is not alone the little emigrants for
+Canada who are sent forth, but many a brother and sister in the Lord,
+leaving home and kindred for His dear name's sake, have here been
+commended with tearful prayers to His gracious keeping. The workers'
+meeting in July this year was a season of peculiar interest, as
+George Clarke, the first-fruits of the work, was present on the eve
+of his departure for China. The way had not been made open for him to
+join the mission in South Africa, as he had desired, and since his
+departure at this time for China, he has laboured in connection with
+the China Inland Mission, not once revisiting his native land.
+
+A few incidents in home work are here recorded:--
+
+"Having asked the Lord to send those He would have rescued for Him,
+no less than _five_ children came to the Refuge last Wednesday.
+Their touching histories need no comment.
+
+"A struggling mother desires a start in life for her boy of ten,
+whose stepfather subjects him to ill-treatment. The lady interested
+in him (for the woman attends her mothers' meeting) writes: 'William
+would be saved from destruction, to which he is fast hastening from
+unkind treatment.'
+
+"Arthur's story is summed up in his own words: 'I saw my father kill
+my mother; he stamped on her when he was drunk, and killed her, and I
+cried out.' Then, turning to his new friend and protectress, the
+little fellow went on: 'But when I get a big man I'll work for you,
+and pay you back for taking care of me when I was a little boy.'
+
+"The next group, clad in deep mourning, is brought by a professional
+opera singer: a babe in arms, a boy and girl aged two and four,
+evidently born in a much higher sphere--pretty, refined children. At
+their mother's death this young woman took charge of them, their
+father having promised to pay 1 pound a week for their support;--an
+empty promise it proved, for the '_gentleman_' absconded, heavily
+in debt to many others. The children's friend can no longer afford
+to keep them, though she seems tenderly attached to them, and will not
+part with the baby as long as she can maintain it. The only way open
+to her was to let the children wander on the street, on the chance of
+their being taken up by the police and put in the workhouse, at the
+same time risking her own imprisonment if discovered. Mercifully she
+heard of the Refuge, and came to beg a home for these deserted lambs.
+
+"A widowed mother, whose failing eyesight prevents her sewing, and
+whose earnings by charing cannot support herself and four children,
+heard Miss Macpherson speak at the Moorgate Street Hall Noon
+Prayer-Meeting, and was led to bring little Alice to her, pleading for
+Christian care. Amid many tears she tells of the wayward wilfulness of
+the elder girl, out at all hours of day and night, and whose pernicious
+example is too likely to ruin the little sisters."
+
+Could such cases be sent away, or a deaf ear turned to the cry of
+these "young children asking bread, and no man giving it them?" (Lam.
+iv. 4.)
+
+Miss Macpherson also writes:--"Many of those, once the little match-box
+makers, are now Christian girls taking our counsel and going as
+servants into Christian families.
+
+"Thus our child-loving hearts cannot refuse to rescue the sorrowful
+children that come to us to escape the atrocities of the almost
+unacknowledged bloodless war that goes on in our midst. Most of the
+fifty rescues now under our care are here through the slain upon the
+battle-field of drink, shaven heads telling the tale of neglect. The
+last two motherless little girls sent to us were turned out by their
+drunken stepfather.
+
+"The leader of our class for mothers and widows says that it is
+almost impossible to visit them, their unmurmuring sufferings are so
+touching. In many of their little garrets almost everything is sold.
+And these are the saints of the Lord--those who will very soon go in
+to the King more than conquerors. Yes, these are they from whom we
+learn our best lessons of trust and patience, how to deal with
+sceptics, and how to go down and share our crust with a suffering
+sister."
+
+"Oh, friends, listen to a mother's sad words. 'Some days nothing all
+day. A little relief comes with the parish allowance; but many a
+morning those hungry voices ask? _Mother, is this the day for
+bread?_' Hear in fancy your loved and cherished little ones asking
+this, and you will feel for that mother's heart. She recalls one day
+that she left them crying for bread; but she left _One_ with
+them, the children's Friend. _He_ quieted them; and when after
+two hours the mother returned, she found them sleeping. 'But, oh,'
+she said, 'that sight just broke-my heart, so starved they looked--
+even the baby in Lizzie's arms--all just like little skeletons! I
+couldn't help it; I just sat down and wept.' Only with tears could we
+hear such a tale. No other response would come as we took in the
+picture; and it did not mend our sorrow when she added, 'There were
+thousands such as these.'" Oh, the _intense_ longing that her
+voice could reach to those drawing-rooms yonder! Will not the echo of
+it, coming in this form, cause some, not in imagination merely, but
+in reality, to "come and see?" Climb the dark stair, and hear for
+yourself these melting stories, which will fill your heart with pity,
+and not leave you wondering what will interest next. What a
+privilege, yea, high honour, it is to be allowed to take messages for
+Jesus! It was stated lately in a crowded gathering of six thousand,
+as the misery of the poor was dwelt on, that if God were to ask the
+angels in heaven if any were willing to spend fifty or a hundred
+years down here to befriend some? little shoeless, homeless boy, for
+whom no Christian was caring, to tell him of Jesus, and lead him to
+heaven, 'why, in three minutes,' were the burning words, 'I don't
+believe there'd be an angel left within the pearly gates.'"
+
+"My Father worketh hitherto, and I work." That which is called the
+day of rest, is at the Home of Industry one of varied and incessant
+labour; one day may serve as a specimen. Before the usual hour for
+morning service, two of the lady-workers start for the Fenchurch
+Street Station, to hold a Bible-class with the railway porters;
+others at the same time leave for Bird Fair. Bird Fair would he a sad
+sight to witness on any day in any place, how humiliating it is to
+behold on that which is called the Lord's Day in a so-called
+Christian land. Here, from eleven till one, dog-stealers parade their
+ill-gotten prey, and crowds through which it is scarcely possible to
+make one's way, are occupied in gambling and betting on them, and on
+the beautiful pigeons here made such an instrument of sin. The
+character of the neighbourhood may be, known from the appeal made by
+two poor boys who came on a week day to ask shelter from a blind,
+Christian woman. They were locked out of their own home (a bird and
+rabbit shop), for their parents were both out drinking, and they
+said, "Father and mother keep sober only on Sundays, because there is
+more business to be done." There, amid many interruptions, the Gospel
+is preached to those who would never hear it elsewhere. The preaching
+station on this occasion was in a railway-arch, here the harmonium
+was placed, and two brethren, who came purposely from a distance,
+gave the help so much needed; for the strain is great on head, heart,
+and voice. In the afternoon the spacious floor, well known to many
+who attend the workers' meetings, is filled by adult classes of
+women. At the close an address is given, often by a returned
+missionary, and many among these very poor of the flock bring their
+offerings, scanty in themselves, but surely much prized in the sight
+of Him whose love has constrained them; twice over has a precious
+offering been given to me for the Punrooty Mission--once from the
+adult classes, and again from the younger Sunday scholars. The adult
+Sunday-school numbers more than 160 members. A class of working men
+is held below. The tea hour is one of peculiar interest. Many young
+men who are engaged in business in the week, and give this day of
+rest to the business of their King, meet here after having spent the
+afternoon teaching in various schools. During this meal letters are
+read from far-off lands, often written by those who had formerly met
+here, and who have gone from this training to dark places of the
+earth. Many subjects for prayer are thus brought forward and
+remembered before the Lord; then the building is again filled to
+overflowing. An infant class of ninety in one room on the ground
+floor--when these disperse a Gospel meeting is held in this room,--a
+class of factory girls in another, while above crowds of children
+press. But there is much outside work besides, to occupy every
+helper. Lodging-houses in the thieves' quarters are visited, and
+services held, and many hundreds are thus reached; and after nine
+P.M., when the labourers return from their varied spheres, all join
+once more in praise and prayer, and many walk a long mile and more to
+reach their own homes, none using any vehicle or train oh the Lord's
+day.
+
+It is impossible to follow every detail in this continually
+increasing work, and only brief mention can be made of the goodness
+of the Lord in having once more preserved the lives of dear ones in
+Canada, when, in 1875, the Home at Belleville was again destroyed by
+fire, and again Canadian kindness and hospitality were manifested to
+the utmost. Each summer's sun had shone upon band after band of young
+emigrants guided safely across the ocean, through the goodness and
+mercy of Him, "Who carries the lambs in His bosom," and "Who holdeth
+the waters in the hollow of His hand." In the labour of watching over
+these little ones on the voyage, as in every other, the Lord raised
+up helpers like-minded with those who bore the burden of the work. In
+May, 1876, the twenty-second party sailed under the care of Mr. Merry
+and Miss Macpherson, and the following extracts are from her diary:--
+
+"Friday, May 5.--Calm seas, children bright and happy, cloudless
+skies, weather charming and exhilarating, though cold. Morning spent
+over our Bibles. Time seemed to fly rapidly while we talked of 'the
+things concerning the King.' In the afternoon the bracing air and
+bright skies invited vigorous exercise, and our Birmingham friend and
+I walked between two and three miles. Faith was our theme of
+converse. May the result be that we both shall trust our God more
+than heretofore, for ourselves and our work, and realise increased
+measure. (Phil. iv. 19) 'My God shall supply all your need.'
+
+"Our children being on deck, we joined them in their games, and then
+assembled our large family in their separate steerages; and standing
+in the doorway between, I was enabled to address them and the helpers
+--140 in all. Their evening hymn attracted the sailors, and this gave
+a double gathering on mid-decks. Our portion was Luke x. 38-42, 'The
+one thing needful.' _Jesus_ the need of each one, ere leaving
+us. A saddened look fell over every little face, as we referred to
+parting, while many beamed with joy, as we talked of the meeting by
+and bye. We closed by singing 'Around the throne of God in heaven.'
+During this hour Mr. Merry held a solemn meeting among the sailors in
+the forecastle. May the Lord Jesus scatter His saints to the four
+quarters of the globe, that His glory may be increased. If those who
+cannot go would only meet weekly, in twos and threes, and pray for
+the foreign fields of perishing millions, surely we should see
+greater results.
+
+"This day ended in one of the most lovely of moonlight nights, and
+as we walked on deck we were ever and anon led to praise God and
+admire the beauties of His hand. Venus was resplendent; very large
+and full of soft lustrous beauty, while an aurora shed some lovely
+tinges of colour across the sky. Our little group turned once more
+towards the chart room, and sang a hymn of praise to 'Him who hath
+loved us.'
+
+
+  "'If so much loveliness is sent
+  To grace our earthly home,
+  How beautiful, how beautiful
+  Must be the world to come!'
+
+
+"Saturday, May 6.--At early dawn we were awakened from a long
+brain-refreshing sleep by one of the officers gently tapping at our
+door, and in a whisper saying, 'A glorious sunrise.' We were soon with
+him on the bridge, filled with admiration as we gazed upon the scene
+before us. The sun appeared rising from the ocean, its golden rays
+shedding a dazzling brilliance on all around. While we watched, the
+scene changed, and a misty veil beclouded the whole horizon, hiding
+from our view that which had been so lovely.
+
+"After going down to an early cup of tea we sang our morning hymn of
+praise, and had a season of prayer; a very hallowed opportunity it
+was, one which brought us again to feel our deep need of grace, to
+live one more day to His praise and glory.
+
+"About noon we bad another of those never-ending changes which are
+to be met with on this great ocean; the sun came out bright and warm,
+the sky became brilliantly blue, and the sea was one sheet of ice
+fields as far as the eye could reach.
+
+"Our noble Scotch ironclad rode on her way majestically, leaving a
+pathway in the frozen fields to be seen for miles behind, and as she
+struck her boom upon the massive sheets of ice, they seemed to
+vibrate and cause a movement in huge sheets on before and on either
+side. Some magnificent pieces, when touched by the ironclad's power,
+shiver into thousands of fragments, others pass our vessel's side,
+hard as iron, to be wafted on to the Gulf Stream, there to come under
+a warmer influence. This Arctic scene causes our captain and his
+officers to look rather serious, and they mount at times to the
+fore-topgallant mast. Did we but know the dangers which beset us
+through yielding to the allurements of the world, how often would we
+also mount aloft, and get upon, our watch-tower and look out!
+
+"You will naturally ask, How far did the ice reach? We were fourteen
+hours cutting through it, passing sixty vessels and two steamers
+(many of them fixtures), signalling those we came near. It was
+touching to see a barque make efforts to get into our opened-up
+pathway, but she could not make the short distance to reach the
+cleared waters. Those who watched throughout that long day as we
+triumphantly, though slowly, broke our ice-girt way, saw seals
+between the fields of ice, porpoises and whales spouting and bounding
+in their glorious freedom, sea-gulls and small red birds flying about.
+
+"Our little fellows were constructing allegories after the fashion
+of their last course of lessons on Banyan's 'Pilgrim's Progress.' The
+ice field, they said, was like Satan, and the ship was like
+Christian; and thus they went on, as they sat looking over the
+bulwarks at the ice which so hindered our progress. There is not a
+child who has not had his constitution braced by this most favourable
+voyage. To-day we passed a steamer in the ice, which had started a
+week ahead of us from Glasgow. How we realised at this time the
+comfort and rest of having a captain and officers who were men of
+prayer.
+
+"The gun was now fired to tell the dwellers at Metis to telegraph
+the glad news to you that we were safe in sight of land, though there
+are still Amaleks to be overcome,--narrow straits lined with
+mountains full of minerals, which are a magnetic attraction to our
+ironclads, and more ships have been lost here than anywhere else;
+fogs which come and go, ever keeping the sailor as he nears the shore
+in anxious trepidation; and shallows that require skill in sounding.
+
+"Sunday, May 7.--A cloudy day, after a week of unspeakable
+loving-kindness and tender mercy. We could by faith hear His own voice
+within, saying 'My peace I give unto you.' Our children all day were
+most obedient, and kind and loving to each other. We spent the
+morning together, the last of the kind until we meet on that morning
+that hath no clouds. Ere commencing our lesson, we asked a sailor to
+lift the hatchway wide open. This gave the suggestion for the
+subject, 'The Man with the Palsy,' which was easily understood by
+supposing the sailors with cords to let one more little boy down into
+our midst.
+
+"The pilot met us at Father Point about 4 P.M., bringing a telegram
+of welcome from one of our dear Canadian friends, also a verse from
+Philemon. Thus we feel assured loving hearts are prayerfully awaiting
+us on the shores we are nearing, a sweet symbol of the better land
+and the loved ones on before.
+
+"Monday, May 8.--Mr. Merry was astir before five o'clock, and
+awaking the young helpers. Soon they were in the steerage among the
+children; commenced packing of blankets, &c., as we were expecting to
+make the port soon after breakfast In this, however, we were
+disappointed, as in Travers's Strait the Mineral Mountains attracted
+the compass, and a dense fog hiding all headlands retarded our
+progress, making it necessary to lower one of the boats to take the
+soundings, and go before the great 'Sardinian,' showing her how to
+shape her course in the narrow way. A sweet reminder this to us that
+our Lord was so condescending as to use the possessions of a little
+lad when He needed the two small fishes. And we take encouragement
+that many of our little ones are going on before, preparing the way
+in many a district by their sweet hymns telling of the 'wondrous
+story,' for the devoted evangelists who are being raised up in Canada
+to follow with deeper revealings of the blessed Bible, winning
+precious souls 'till He come.'
+
+
+  "'I am coming! Are you working?
+    Short your serving time will be;
+  Are your talents idle lying?
+    Are you using them for me?'
+
+
+"Such is the effect of fog at sea, that we are told it may be 6 P.M.
+ere we arrive, and judging from all appearances, great caution is
+required in the Gulf at this time of year. At 11 A.M. we had a sweet
+season of thanksgiving for the many mercies received. At twelve
+o'clock the fog lifted, and the engine went on with its accustomed
+vigour. At 5 P.M. we neared the shore, and there stood a group of
+more than a dozen young ladies, waving a welcome. Soon they were on
+deck, and saluted us and our children, telling us they had borne us
+up in prayer before the Lord. After uniting with them in praise for
+the unspeakable mercies by the way, we bade farewell to passengers,
+officers, and crew, and sliding down the long gangway from the I
+bulwarks, felt our feet once more on _terra firma._ Shaking our
+captain's hand with a grateful heart for all his kindness to us and
+ours, in a few minutes steam was up, and the 'Sardinian' on her way
+to Montreal.
+
+"We then went to see the little ones having tea in an adjoining
+hall, while Mr. Merry was very busy among the agents and luggage. It
+being announced that the Quebec boat was ready to cross the river, we
+had to part with our young friends, who told us they should all take
+a deeper interest than ever in us now they had seen the bright faces
+Of our children. Front love to Jesus, they had met during the past
+winter to make clothing, and presented me with a large case to take
+on.
+
+"After sending our telegrams to each Home, we found the first-class
+cars ready for our children, so we put every one at full length, and
+soon all were soundly asleep, and we went on hour after hour.
+
+"Tuesday, May 9.--We arrived at Montreal at ten o'clock, where a
+most comfortable breakfast was awaiting us, with nice washing
+accommodation. Here we had the pleasure of meeting the Secretary of
+the Emigration Department of Ottawa, who kindly gave us some sound
+counsel on many points bearing upon our work of emigration.
+
+"At eleven o'clock we heard the summons, 'All aboard!' and were soon
+again on our way. We dined at Prescott, and then still westward we
+travelled until midnight.
+
+"All was mercy. For Sidney, our little delicate child, we feared the
+cold night-air would be too much, so the cry went upwards for
+guidance with regard to this precious orphan, whose story was so
+touching. A Christian widow had sheltered his mother from the streets
+when the child was but two weeks old, and had kept him for five
+years, but now, her failing eyesight rendering her unable to support
+him, with a breaking heart she gave him up to us. All my desire now
+our journey was ending was to keep from making one special
+attachment, yet his delicacy drew us all more than ever to him.
+
+"Owing to a telegram not having been delivered, about midnight one
+of the trying incidents of this part of our journey unexpectedly
+occurred. On arriving at Belleville, after awaking our sleeping
+family, we found neither friend nor conveyance awaiting us. Mr. Merry
+walked the mile to the Home, and soon our waggon was ready to take
+back a few of the most exhausted ones, whilst our car was shunted to
+a siding for the night.
+
+"Wednesday, May 10.--Ere seven o'clock, by help of a large omnibus,
+we were conveyed to the new Belleville Home, where we met with a warm
+welcome. It was a day of reunion with loved fellow-workers, talking
+of the way the Lord had led us, and the trials and joys of the past
+year. Twelve months ago, I left this Home a mass of ruins and burnt
+embers; now a new and more efficient one for the purpose is erected
+on the same spot My beloved friend Miss Bilbrough has indeed had many
+a burden to bear, but her testimony to the Lord's faithfulness is
+greater than ever. Her heart is more and more devoted to the
+children, and to carrying forward the work in all its never-ceasing
+details.
+
+"After a few hours' sleep, it was so very interesting to walk over
+our new and conveniently arranged Home. Truly our hearts were filled
+with praise as we knelt together to thank the Lord. Towards the
+afternoon I was introduced to a young man who was working as
+gardener. We had brought him out from England in 1870, and he has
+ever since given great satisfaction to his employers, has paid back
+his passage-money, joined the Church, and not long since was married
+to his late master's daughter.
+
+"In the evening we walked into town, and met with 'Daniel's Band,'
+which is composed of seventeen Christian young men, who are uniting
+in prayer and work for the souls of their fellow-townsmen; and
+through their instrumentality many conversions have taken place, and
+the churches have been stirred up to greater activity. Mr. Merry gave
+a clear Gospel address, and another meeting being asked for, a
+Bible-reading was arranged for the following evening. Thus we had the
+privilege of witnessing for our blessed Master to about 200, and
+cheering the hearts of 'Daniel's Band.'
+
+"Thursday, May 11.--Occupied the day writing English letters and
+receiving friends. Also went to see an aged saint, who had from our
+first visit to these shores been a helper by her prayers.
+
+"Friday, May 12.--Left Belleville for Galt soon after 6 A.M., taking
+with us thirty-eight children, and travelling by rail along the
+shores of Lake Ontario. The morning hours passed quickly _en
+route_, and as we neared Toronto, towns and villages became more
+frequent and more attractive. At Berlin an unexpected kindness was
+shown us. Orders had been given to send us on by special train, so
+that no delay was experienced in travelling the remaining fourteen
+miles of our journey. Those who have travelled 3000 miles with a
+number of children can understand how this was appreciated by us,
+when every nerve was strained, and nature was yearning for a long
+sleep free from the shaking of the railway.
+
+"At 5 P.M., on the seventeenth day after leaving London, we reached
+the end of our journey, and found our farmer-nephew, with his team,
+awaiting our arrival. Soon we were on the hill, looking at the little
+Home beyond. As we approached the gates the shout of welcome from
+more than a score of young voices greeted us, and on the verandah we
+were received by our loved niece, and the dear friends who have been
+assisting her in the absence of her parents. The strain of travel now
+being over, we were able to enjoy a few hours' rest, our hearts full
+of gratitude for the many mercies which had encompassed us all our
+journey through.
+
+
+  "'How good is the God we adore,
+    Our faithful, unchangeable Friend
+  Whose love is as great as His power,
+    And knows neither measure nor end.'"
+
+
+During the winter, individual visitation of the children had been
+most effectually accomplished by the four Inspectors appointed by the
+Canadian Government, the result of which proved to be most favourable
+to the plan of placing the "Solitary in families." After two days
+rest at Galt, Miss Macpherson started on the same loved work, and met
+with the usual cheering results.
+
+On her return home Miss Macpherson thus writes:--
+
+"_July 20._
+
+"In the providence of our covenant-keeping God, and Father of the
+fatherless, we have been again permitted in peace to return from
+another visit to the adopted homes of our little ones. To His praise,
+who is the Answerer of prayer, we record that 100,000 miles have been
+travelled in connection with these special charges in the past six
+years, and no storm or accident has been permitted to alarm, no death
+requiring the remains to be committed to the great deep.
+
+"During the past year the Dominion Government chose four of their
+oldest officials to visit all our children, (as their Blue-book
+records), 'deeming that from their experience they would be best
+enabled to judge of the condition, position, and prospects of the
+children in their situations.' The Government are satisfied (as
+parents of the State), that our children 'are very carefully placed,'
+bringing out the fact that, ninety-eight out of every 100 are doing
+well." Miss Macpherson adds:--
+
+"A letter will often show the progress of an industrious young man,
+and being asked for details, I give the following from a handful of
+similar encouraging testimonials:--
+
+"MAGNETAWAN, DISTRICT PARRY SOUND, ONTARIO.
+
+"DEAR MISS MACPHERSON,--This is from William Miller--one that came
+cut under your care three years ago last June. I worked in the town
+of Galt as a substitute three months, for a man while he went home to
+his friends in Scotland. After that I went to live in Pelham, in the
+county of Welland, a situation that Miss Reavell directed me to, and
+there stayed three years, and saved a little money; and now I have
+moved to Parry Sound, to the address which you will find at the end
+of this note. Dear friend, I desire to hear of your welfare in the
+work that God has put in your hands to do,--in bringing out the
+destitute ones from England into a land of plenty, and where they can
+be well cared for. I have seen many of them around the country where
+I have been, almost all looking well, and enjoying themselves much.
+
+"I now live in the township of Croft. I have 186 acres of land, on
+the banks of Doe Lake. I think if I had stayed in England I should
+not have had as many feet. I like England very well, but it is a hard
+place for the poor. I took 100 acres of this land as free grant, and
+the rest I bought. It is two miles and a half from the village. There
+are two stores, post-office, and sawmill; I think a flour-mill will
+be built this summer. Magnetawan River runs through the village.
+There are two waterfalls for mill purposes in the village. A day
+school will commence in the summer, and there is also a church and
+Sunday-school, to which I go. In the winter it is not held, because
+the roads are so bad, but when the country gets open more the roads
+will be better.
+
+"I humbly thank God for guiding and keeping me in good health, and
+under the banner of Christ, and I trust walking in His ways, and hope
+to remain so unto death, and then live with Him above, there to part
+no more.
+
+"My brother is living here also; he has 200 acres of land. Remember
+me to all the workers at the Home, praying that we may all, as
+Christians, work for the Lord of glory, and at last meet together to
+praise Him. 'Wait on the Lord.'
+
+"I remain, yours truly in Christ, W. MILLER."
+
+Those who have been helped, help their kindred in after years. The
+following is an instance:--
+
+"DOUGLAS, _June_ 29, 1876.
+
+"DEAR Miss MACPHERSON,--I have been here four years in August, I
+will be four years with my master in October. I like this country
+well; the crops are growing well, and there is prospect of a good
+harvest. Dear ma'am, I have a little brother nearly ten years old,
+and he is living with my mother; he wants to come to this country,
+and mother is willing he should, and I think I have enough to pay his
+passage out; and if it pleased you, would you take him into your
+Home, and send him out with your boys. Please would you send him to
+the Belleville Home, as we would then be able to get him, because the
+man that my brother is with says he would not object to taking him.
+Please would you let me know how much it would take to pay for
+sending him to Belleville, and where would I send the money to.
+
+"I am able to plough now, and milk cows, chop wood, reap grain, and
+mow hay. I am raising fifty young apple-trees of the Spitenberg kind.
+I am going to be a farmer myself some day; it is very nice and
+healthy work. I get a good many rides on horseback. I have a lamb of
+my own; my master gave it me when it was a small, little lamb, but
+now it has grown into a good-sized sheep. The Premier of the Dominion
+was at this village, and I heard him speak. We will soon begin to cut
+our hay; we have a mowing-machine, so that it does not take long to
+cut our hay. There is a Sunday-school three miles away from us, quite
+near where my brother lives; it has sixty scholars, and I go to it
+every Sunday, but the preaching is only once a fortnight. In our
+Sunday-school we sing about the same hymns we used to sing when
+in the Refuge, and there is three of us 'Home' boys go to that
+Sunday-school. We have seven head of horn-cattle, five horses, ten
+sheep, and six lambs, thirty-six hens, forty-four hen chickens, two
+geese, and nine goslings, two pigs, and one calf, so I will say
+good-bye for the present.--I remain, yours sincerely,
+
+JOHN HENEY MITCHELL.
+
+"P.S.--Give my love to all the boys, and accept the, same from me,
+J. M."
+
+
+The following incidents are told by Miss Macpherson:--
+
+"Miss Bilbrough often goes off with half-a-dozen to see them placed
+in their new home. Whilst on one of these journeys, the little ones
+were attracting the notice of fellow-travellers, as some forty to
+fifty are generally in a compartment. From amongst these Miss
+Bilbrough is accosted by a young gentleman, who lifts his hat to her,
+and sits down by her side. This was one of our first party, now a
+young solicitor, just about to pass his last examination. He was on
+the important business of going to some place in the backwoods to
+value a farm for the firm by whom he was employed.
+
+"Another young man, one of our second band in 1870, is now visiting
+his friends in England for a month, ere beginning his career as a
+lawyer in Canada; and more than this, he is, we rejoice to say, a
+consistent Christian of several years' standing. Now, when we want a
+lawyer's counsel, our young friend is glad to give it us, and already
+has done us good service. Sweet thank-offerings!
+
+"My past birthday in June was spent in taking two little fellows to
+their homes. After travelling nearly one hundred miles, as we neared
+our destination very tired, we wondered to ourselves whether it would
+be in a log hut, farmhouse, or mansion we should find a welcome with
+our little charges. It proved to be the last.
+
+"The Lord had put it into the heart of a young married lady to rear
+an orphan boy, and thus fulfil a long-cherished idea. She had also
+induced another Christian lady to do the same. It was a sweet reward
+to His wearied servant, to know that two orphans would be so well
+cared for."
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VII
+
+1877-1879.
+
+"They helped every one his neighbour"--Miss Child, a fellow-labourer
+--The work in Ratcliff Highway--Strangers' Rest for Sailors--"Welcome
+Home"--"Bridge of Hope"--Miss Macpherson's twenty-first voyage to
+Canada--Explosion on board the "Sardinian"--Child life in the Galt
+Home--The Galt Home now devoted to children from London, Knowlton to
+those from Liverpool, and Marchmont to Scottish Emigrants.
+
+
+"They helped every one his neighbour, and every one said to his
+brother, Be of good courage" (margin, be strong). Miss Macpherson
+writes in February this year, the eighth anniversary:--
+
+"As a band, we need to '_be strong_' for any emergency. At this
+season we are surrounded by hundreds of men out of employment, and in
+want of food, who say now to us--'We have listened to your Gospel;
+we are in want; show us thy faith by thy works.' This we are
+endeavouring to do by providing for them suppers of soup and bread
+twice a week. The other evening a crowd had gathered outside the door
+at the specified hour, when only 150 could be admitted. Did we but
+know the gnawings of real hunger we should not wonder that the
+unsuccessful applicants attempted to burst in; and one poor man
+falling in the crush, broke his arm.
+
+"We need your prayers while dealing with this class for another
+month. Strong hearts quail at the sight of these hopeless looking
+men. Our evening-school three times a week, taught by ladies, we find
+to be the most successful plan of dealing with them. The being called
+by their _own names_, man by man, wakes up an interest, and
+causes the public-house life to go into the shade.
+
+"The friends of the match box-makers (our oldest love in this
+vineyard) will rejoice to hear that we gathered 300 of them straight
+from their boxes to a New Year's tea, when a kind friend helped to
+make the evening a pleasant one by exhibiting dissolving views. After
+this the gifts of clothing, &c., with which we had been supplied by
+many contributors, were distributed among them.
+
+"Last week we had a very happy evening with our Christian band, many
+of whom were the matchbox-makers of former days, now grown, into
+young women, and fellow-workers for Christ in their own homes, and in
+the courts and alleys where they dwell. Deeply interesting were their
+testimonies of answers to prayer, the power of the Word, and
+delivering grace in time of trial in the factories where they labour.
+Dear helpers by prayer, you now behold what great things the Lord
+hath wrought for us in giving us this band of young women to go forth
+on the Sunday afternoons in couples with their tracts, and reach many
+whom perhaps we might not find. Some of these are also teachers in
+our Sunday-school, sympathising with us in our East-end trials,
+teaching to others what they have learned of Jesus through their own
+experience of His great love.
+
+"The 'elder girls' of the East-end are a continual heavy burden on
+our heart; much thought and care are being bestowed in devising and
+perfecting plans for winning their young lives to the Saviour, and
+fitting them for honourable service for God and man. This great
+preventive work among those young bread-winners can only be
+successfully accomplished by those who, through studying their
+habits, temptations, and surroundings, by constant loving contact
+with them, and by special training, are able to win their confidence
+and affection."
+
+In this year a new and most important work was begun, one which has
+eminently received the blessing of "Him who is the confidence of all
+the ends of the earth, and of those who are afar off upon the sea."
+
+Miss Child, one like-minded with Miss Macpherson inter zeal for
+souls, and her longing to save them from the curse of drink; had been
+residing in the Home of Industry, and visiting public-houses in
+Ratcliff Highway. To those who have never seen the open parade of sin
+in that part, (long notorious for every, evil), it is hard to
+describe the scene, where even in broad daylight the unhappy captives
+of Satan seem to glory in their shame. Miss Child's heart yearned
+over the sailors who crowd the public-houses, escaped from the perils
+of the sea only to fall into worse dangers. She longed for some means
+of helping them. Miss Macpherson appealed to him whose burning words
+in the City of London Theatre in 1861 had so stirred her own heart
+Mr. Reginald Radcliffe had lately opened a Strangers' Rest in
+Liverpool, and only longed to see the same established in every port
+in the world. In answer to the call, he came up to London and
+addressed Christian workers assembled at the Home of Industry,
+stirring them up to undertake a new form of attack on the strongholds
+of the enemy. Mr. James E. Matheson took the deepest interest in this
+work, and a house was secured in Ratcliff Highway, the appearance of
+which was made to contrast very strongly with all around. Gospel
+texts in many languages appeared in all the windows, and invitations
+to sailors to enter and write their letters, materials provided free
+of cost. This work needed many helpers. Preachers were required for
+the different nationalities. Such were found, and willing listeners,
+so that soon a larger house was necessary. Notwithstanding the many
+calls on her time and strength, Miss Macpherson was frequently to be
+found here, delighting in seeking to save among a class hitherto
+difficult to reach. Many other sisters in the Lord were, called on to
+help--some to play the harmoniums provided in each room, and lead the
+singing in varied languages--others in writing letters for those who
+could not use a pen themselves, and whose hearts were softened by
+kindness shown in this way--others in filling, bags with books and
+tracts. The blessing which has followed these cannot be reckoned;
+none can tell what these silent messengers, so often despised on
+shore, have been to sailors when read far away from home and friends.
+Many of these bags have been made by Christian invalids, and are
+followed by their prayers that the contents may ever be blessed.
+
+As yet, however, nothing had been done for the women in Katcliff
+Highway, and Miss Macpherson, when visiting that neighbourhood where
+Satan reigns so openly, longed to save some of her poor lost sisters.
+On one occasion a young woman said most piteously to her: "Why don't
+you speak to us as you do to the sailors, and we would be converted
+and be happy too?" This led to the first decided effort being made,
+and the following year a small mission room for their use alone was
+opened. Tea-meetings and Gospel addresses-were given here. Miss
+Macpherson's long-tried helper, Miss May, added this work to her many
+other burdens for the Lord, and other kind friends joined her in
+visiting and seeking out the lost.
+
+Although, in Miss May's words, "humanly speaking all things were
+against us,"--for in this neighbourhood the wages of iniquity are
+high, yet encouragement was met with, and it was felt that the
+mission room was not sufficient, but some shelter must be taken
+wherein to receive' poor applicants until they could be removed to a
+safer locality. A tiny three-roomed house was secured and opened
+with, much prayer, and has fulfilled the promise of the name given to
+it, "The Bridge of Hope." The Lord blessed Miss Macpherson in the
+choice of a helper, Miss Underdown, the brave pioneer who volunteered
+to remain here alone, ready to welcome the poor wanderer at any hour
+of the day or night. She is now working among sailors at Cape Town;
+but the Lord has proved in this instance, as in many others, that
+when His summons to a distant land is obeyed, the work at home will
+not be suffered to languish. Another devoted sister in the Lord, Miss
+Steer, has given up home ties and home comforts, counting it all joy
+to rescue those most deeply sunk in guilt and misery. The work has
+doubled and trebled in importance, more than a hundred having been
+drawn out of this whirlpool of sin and infamy, and brought under the
+sound of the Gospel within the walls of the larger Refuge, since
+opened for them. More than once we have had to praise God for the
+help given by Christian sailors; their watchful eyes have noticed in
+the "Highway" some who were evidently strangers to the haunts of
+vice, and have brought them here for safety, and even borne part of
+the expense of their journey homewards. The house originally taken
+for the Strangers' Rest having been found inadequate for the
+accommodation of the crowds who frequented it, a larger house was
+taken, but it was felt that after the many hallowed associations of
+the first house opened, where Miss Macpherson and Miss Child had
+often rejoiced with the angels of God over repenting sinners, it was
+impossible to relinquish it for ordinary uses,--it might be in that
+neighbourhood for some direct work of Satan. To Miss Macpherson's
+great joy her faithful, co-worker, Miss Child, determined on opening
+it as a Temperance Coffee House, or "Welcome Home" for the sailors,
+and thenceforth made this place her abode, and the work of God has
+never ceased.
+
+In the spring of this year Miss Macpherson had contemplated starting
+with a party for Canada, but as the time drew near she was so much
+worn out by the continued strain of "holding the fort" at
+Spitalfields for the last two years, that some of her friends almost
+feared she would be unable to take the charge. She would not suffer
+her bodily weakness to hinder her, and on May the 8th started on her
+twenty-first voyage in the "Sardinian," accompanied by her
+brother-in-law, Mr. Merry, with a party of fifty children, and two young
+men who had gone out with her in 1870, and had returned to see their
+friends, and were on their way back with her to the land of their adoption.
+So many thousand miles had been traversed by land and sea, and hitherto
+thanksgivings had gone up for preservation from even alarm of danger.
+Now a deeper thanksgiving was to be called forth, for the Lord's
+preserving care in a scene which brought all face to face with
+eternity. On the Monday before she left Miss Macpherson remarked to
+some friends, "The Word is full of _Deliverance_, both individual
+deliverance and otherwise," little dreaming how soon she would be
+called to realise this truth.
+
+The following letter, which appeared in the "Times," tells of the
+strength given in time of need:--
+
+"_May_ 14, 1878.
+
+"Captain Grills, of the Liverpool Mercantile Marine Service
+Association, going to Derry upon a pleasure trip, was upon the bridge
+of the 'Sardinian' when the accident occurred, and speaks in high
+terms of the discipline of officers and crew under the trying
+circumstances. He says:--'I was on the bridge with Captain Dutton,
+looking for the approach of the tender, when in a moment an explosion
+occurred down in the fore-hold, where a quantity of coal was stored,
+and blew into the air thousands of fragments of wood. Immediately
+afterwards people came shrieking up the companion ways, many, of them
+cut, bruised, and blackened. The scene was indescribable. A great
+deal of confusion was caused by the separation of children from
+parents and husbands from wives. One poor woman begged me to go and
+find her baby, which was torn from her arms. The Captain, on hearing
+the explosion and seeing the smoke, sprang from the bridge, ordered
+the hose to be instantly applied, and by dint of extraordinary
+exertions on the part of himself, the officers, and crew, succeeded
+in saving several people who were in the midst of the debris. The
+hold was flooded with water from the hose, but the smoke continued to
+pour out in dense volumes, and ultimately they had to abandon all
+hope of saving the ship except by opening the sluices and letting the
+water in. Before doing this the vessel was taken into five fathoms
+of water, so that when she settled down her decks would be above
+water, and she might the more easily be pumped out and raised. While
+these orders were being executed, the whole of the saloon passengers,
+assisted by many of the crew, were engaged in transferring the
+emigrants to the mail tender which had just come alongside. About 300
+or 400 soon crowded her decks, and she landed them at Moville pier,
+after which she returned for orders. Subsequently the second tender
+took off most of the saloon passengers, many wounded, and a large
+quantity of baggage. The boats were lowered in order to save the
+baggage. The mail tender returned and took the rest of the people,
+and I went with them, and we reached Derry about nine o'clock that
+night. I cannot refrain from referring to the heroic conduct of one
+lady, [Footnote: Miss Catherine Ellis of Tryon House] a saloon
+passenger, who, while partially dressed, rescued a baby that was
+fearfully burnt, at considerable risk to herself; the mother had
+proceeded to Derry, thinking she had lost her child for ever. The
+promptitude and energy displayed by Captain Button was in every way
+admirable, and his orders were executed with great decision. Miss
+Macpherson and her little band of Canadian emigrants showed no small
+amount of true fortitude and heroism. Most of the children behaved
+nobly under the trying circumstances, and exhibited much of the fruit
+of their careful training. They kept repeating to one another many of
+the sayings they had heard from Miss Macpherson about being patient,
+and brave, and good; I visited the infirmary before leaving on
+Saturday, and spoke to each of the nine patients, who are all
+suffering seriously, but I am hopeful of the recovery of some.'"
+
+Miss Macpherson's own account follows:--
+
+"Sunday morning.
+
+"Since we parted from you and those beloved Christian friends at St.
+Pancras last Wednesday, we seem to have lived years, and learnt more
+of the reality of the delivering power of our loving Father than in
+all our lives before.
+
+"Wondrous to relate, and as marvellous as the deliverance of the
+three children from the fiery furnace, is the fact that all our
+precious little ones are in safety, and now gone to a place of
+worship.
+
+"Behold the loving-kindness of our God! Had the explosion taken
+place a little while later, our vessel would have been on her way
+instead of standing still waiting off Moville for the mails.
+
+"Most of the children" were on deck, basking in the lovely sunshine
+of that afternoon. We were all busy finishing our letters, and I
+intended to write one more, and then go and spend an hour in the
+children's steerage, when presently there was a terrible sound, as of
+a cannon, followed by a deathly stillness for two minutes; I rushed
+on deck and beheld a man jet black with soot, his halt burnt off,
+issuing from a gangway near; then one of my own boys came,
+exclaiming, 'Oh, Miss! I prayed to Jesus, and He saved me.' Then the
+deck became a fearful scene of confusion, poor foreigners weeping,
+and oh! the mutilated men and women, ghastly with fright, some of
+their faces entirely skinned.
+
+"My first care was for the little ones. They clustered round me, as
+the two young men, (former boys of 1870, who had been home to see
+their friends), gathered them out of the crowd. Mr. Merry gave me the
+list, and they dried their tears, and answered to their names when
+called. We soon found all accounted for, and were hushed with praise
+Picture us all standing near the wheelhouse, awaiting orders, or to
+see, it might be flames, or another explosion of a still more serious
+character.
+
+_"Oh! could every Sunday school teacher in the land realise my
+feelings at that moment, they would never rest until every child in
+their class was' washed in the Blood of the Lamb. I saw nothing but
+imperfection in all my work, and want of burning reality for
+souls._
+
+"The scene of the disaster was very near to the children's sleeping
+berths; a very few yards off two women sat upon a box together, one
+was blown up into the air, the other driven she knew not whither; but
+late that night I came across her seeking a bed in Moville, and she
+told me that in those first terrible moments _every sin she had
+ever committed came before, her,_ and the one most awful was her
+having rejected the Lord Jesus Christ. Oh, what our God can do in
+tire twinkling of an eye! by unbalancing a little breath of His own
+created air, then the stoutest-hearted sinners quail"
+
+Another witness wrote:--
+
+_Sunday._
+
+"It is terrible to have been in the midst of such a calamity! and
+the sight of the poor, blackened, and scorched faces of the sufferers
+I shall never forget. There was such a nice, family on board; the
+father, mother, and four children. The mother was blown up; her body
+was found yesterday, scarcely recognisable, but the husband had to go
+and identify it. Poor man! he was here, and in such an agony of
+distress. The last order I heard the Captain give, was thundered out,
+'Send all the women and children up from below,' and Miss Macpherson
+came herself, and dragged me up. Captain Button says there have been
+the most wonderful providences.
+
+"It was wonderful how calm every one seemed at the time of that
+terrible crash. There was no panic, but the peculiar wailing of the
+poor Sardinians rings in my ears still, and the groans of those
+sufferers. Silence must be cast over the scenes of that sad day.
+
+"If I thought of anything at the time of the accident, it was of
+Miss Macpherson's _Bible,_ and I know her thought was for me and
+the children. It was most sweet at the time to see the way people
+thought of others more than of themselves; there were many little
+acts of kindness done then which will never be forgotten.
+
+"Miss Macpherson said to me as we were starting on Thursday, 'I
+think this is going to be a most unusual voyage. I have never had
+such sweet dismissals before.'
+
+"I did so feel as I stood round those poor sufferers. Why was I
+spared? All in the same ship, all exposed to the same peril, and yet
+we are _untouched,_ and what are we better than they? We can
+only bow low before our, loving Father with 'What can I render unto
+the Lord for all His benefits towards me?'.. I managed to get to the
+infirmary, where I paid a very interesting visit.... The third
+officer is so terribly hurt, quite unrecognisable."
+
+On her return from Derry, whither she had hastened to give help to
+the sufferers, Mrs. Merry gave a thrilling account of how the waters
+had not been suffered to pass over them, nor the flame permitted to
+kindle upon them; and told how nobly that brave seaman and man of
+God, Captain Dutton, had acted; how he had instantly summoned all
+hands to his help in seeing to the safety of the children, so that in
+less than three minutes by the watch, after the shock, the whole of
+the forty _little_ tones were around Miss Macpherson, having no
+more hurt upon them (with one exception) than a little singed hair
+and a few blisters.
+
+Not only were their lives spared--they were not even called upon to
+"take joyfully the spoiling if their goods," for not one box or
+parcel either of clothing or gospel, tracts and books was lost or
+injured. The "Peruvian" was sent from Liverpool to take, the place of
+the "Sardinian," and the rest of the voyage was accomplished in
+safety.
+
+When nearing Cape Race Miss Macpherson writes:--
+
+"Many a touching scene have we witnessed. A company of between
+twenty and thirty Swiss Christians, with their evangelist, guided by
+a lady, to form a little colony in Canada, when passing through
+Liverpool, had spent all their evenings at the 'Sailors Rest,' so we,
+being I one in the eternal bond, sang together the same hymns, though
+in different languages, the first evening we sailed out. To see them
+drying their Bibles and hymn-books, all the covers gone, oh! it made
+me weep. How very _precious those mutilated books were to them
+now!_ One dear German Christian showed me his Bible, and I was
+told the two front blotted pages were written by a dying mother's
+hand. Another young German, when he found his Bible was safe, forgot
+all else, and danced about with the most touching joy, but then he
+knew not where to put his treasure for safety and to get it pressed.
+Although I understood not his language, and no one was at hand to
+interpret, I put out my hand to help him; he took one long look into
+my face, and with a smile gave me his precious book. Five days after
+we met again, and he held out his hands, exclaiming 'Bibel!'
+
+"You heard how very promptly the Deny Christians acted for the poor
+emigrants. Every minister intimated the need in his church, and the
+response was made before nine o'clock on the Monday morning.
+Cartloads of clothing were sent in and distributed among, the
+emigrants, so that as far as covering for the present goes, all have
+been liberally helped to go on their way.
+
+"Sunday.--A day of lovely sunshine, all on deck enjoying the warmth.
+The foreigners quietly reading their mutilated books; but--oh, how
+sad to see!--with the English emigrants it is beer--beer--beer--
+taking with them to the new land habits that will tell ill for them
+wherever they go.
+
+"The children and I spent the morning singing together, and thanking
+our God for all His wondrous love. Often during the-past week I felt
+like breaking down, and letting the pent-up tears flow; but while Bob
+(eleven years old) prayed, I could hold out no longer, and the strong
+sailors leaning over the mid hatchway joined me too, as the dear lad
+asked God, for Jesus' sake, to care for the blind mother he had left
+in the workhouse, and that his runaway brother might be brought to
+Jesus; that his brother with the bad leg might be found of the Lord;
+that his sister in service might please her master and mistress; and
+that he himself might follow Jesus, and be a good boy, and obedient
+to those placed over him."
+
+The following is dated from Galt:--
+
+"Because Thou hast been my help, therefore in the shadow of Thy
+wings will I rejoice." (Ps. lxiii. 7).
+
+"MY DEAR FELLOW-HELPERS,--On arriving at this sweet spot our
+journeyings ended for the present. You can well imagine the complete
+enjoyment of repose as with my family I wander round the Cottage Home
+when school hours are over. During a week in which I had been
+separated from them, they had made the acquaintance of horses, cows,
+ducks, hens, sheep, &c.--all so new to our poor London children. They
+never tire of inviting me to come and see _our_ this and that,
+or some new-found pleasure. How quickly this country life develops
+character, touching chords which are left unawakened in many a
+nature! It is such a contrast to the artificial tastes and habits of
+city life, which arouse passions not easily kept in subjection.
+
+"Mrs. Merry will be glad to know that I am delighted with all in and
+around the Home. The new wing, with its lavatory and simple
+arrangements for the health and comfort of the children, would, we
+believe, be highly approved of by the relatives of our departed
+friends, Miss Wilson and Mr. Marshall, who so kindly left us the
+means to make this addition. One of our former' boys works on the
+farm; his life was consecrated nearly two years ago for China. He is
+a manly, consistent young Christian, and tells me it was an address
+given here by George W. Clarke (the first of our missionary sons from
+Spitalfields), before he went out to China, that gave him the first
+burning longings to become a missionary. It is my duty to see that a
+suitable education be given him to strengthen these desires;
+therefore when field-work is over, we have hours for study, Mr. Merry
+teaching in the morning, and I in the evening.
+
+"The last mail from China brings a letter from G. W. Clarke, in
+which he writes:--"The Lord has blessed me with good health, whilst
+many of our brethren engaged in the hard work of pioneering are in
+some way feeling the strain upon their strength." I am very thankful
+for the _roughing_ I had in Canada, and for whatever trials I
+have had in China, which have enabled me in any way to "endure
+hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ."
+
+"We need much prayer for this branch of the work, that it may be the
+natural outcome of family life, and grow gradually as our heavenly
+Father leads.
+
+"Several of the elder boys are at the Home now from different
+causes; their work on the farm pays for their board, and they again
+come under blessed Gospel influence, while we watch and pray for"
+their conversion. The dear sisters who work out the details value an
+interest in your prayers, as they so realise 'from day to day the
+need of patience.' All your desires that I should _rest_ are
+being fulfilled. If you could but see me sitting on a bank with three
+or four little heads leaning on my lap, the others buzzing round,
+bringing flowers and weaving wreaths for our hats! Then a hand
+opens to show _'such a dear' young frog!_ Another brings an
+endless variety of caterpillars, &c. Then there come shrieks of
+delight from a group of boys who have almost caught a squirrel A
+rowing boat glides down the river, and the children strike up an
+impromptu strain--'Row, brothers, row!'
+
+"A little fellow has a burden on his mind, ending with, 'Could I not
+stop here always?' Alas! he had to be told 'impossible,' for there
+were many more poor boys far away in London, crying to be loved, and
+he would soon find a 'pa and ma' to love him. How this thirst for
+sympathy grows in these tiny hearts! May more dear mission-workers
+have _anointed eyes_, to seek out the orphans in the dens of our
+great city. May more jewelled fingers yield their offerings, ere the
+opportunity be past, for rescuing immortal souls that may become
+witnesses of Jesus Christ, and shine for ever and ever in His crown.
+
+"Too many seek to square the cases up to their rules, but the
+opposite I believe is more according to God's mind. Oh, if every town
+in Old England would arise and build its own Orphan Home! Surely the
+Church of Christ in every denomination can unite in love over the
+children. Witness the burst of love in a few hours after the
+ministers of every sect in Deny told the need of the emigrants, and
+the children cast naked upon their shores! They gave until the
+receivers said, 'It is enough!'
+
+"In this quiet resting-place, I have time to listen to the Master's
+own voice, and hear Him say, 'Go forward!' This is the twenty-first
+voyage--the _majority_! I would celebrate it by desiring still
+greater things for God's glory, devising, yet leaving the direction
+to the Lord. Already it has proved a time of trial and rich blessing.
+My heart is with you all in, your joyous privileges of making known a
+Saviour's love. My spirit flits to the _needy children_. A
+thousand board schools will never supply the loving, tender care we
+women can give to the fatherless and motherless, or sow the seed and
+lead the precious little souls to Jesus. Therefore follow me in these
+enlarged desires the Lord hath given, and oh! keep your eyes and ears
+open to the cry of the children. Hot summer days will lessen some of
+the Refuge work, but I follow you to Bird Fair, Ratcliff Highway, and
+many a court around. Don't forget that terrible corner by the lamp-post
+in the next street.
+
+"Then for your own souls I send this word--'They thirsted not when
+He led them through the deserts. He caused the waters to flow out of
+the rock for them.' As to your work, Do it. Should He be pleased to
+remove any of us, to stir our nest, or lay sickness upon us, shall we
+not hear Him say, 'Is it not lawful for Me to do what I will with
+mine own?' Beloved friends, 'Hold that fast which thou hast, that no
+man take thy crown.'--Yours affectionately,
+
+"ANNIE MACPHERSON."
+
+The work had now so increased, that it was thought well to divide
+the three Canadian Homes. Hiss Macpherson found the Gait Home
+sufficient for the needs of the children transferred from the Home of
+Industry. Miss Bilbrough retained possession of the Marchmont Home,
+now devoted exclusively to children from Scotland; and the Knowlton
+Home, in the province of Quebec, was placed under the management of
+Mrs. Birt for the reception of little emigrants from Liverpool.
+
+It was at the workers' meeting in August that Miss Macpherson was
+welcomed home; and Miss Ellis of Tryon House said she had been in
+Canada with Miss Macpherson, and the thought most on her mind in
+recollection of the scene on the "Sardinian" was "_given back_."
+As delivered from death, they had returned, each to their loved
+spheres of work, and felt increasingly how consecrated such lives
+should be, and for what great blessing they might look out.
+
+As one quite unconnected with the work, Miss Ellis said she must
+remark how much she had been struck with the arrangements of the Gait
+Home--the children were thoroughly well fed and well cared for (not
+like little princes though, nor above their station), and not an
+unnecessary shilling was expended.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER VIII.
+
+1879-1880.
+
+Experiences among Indians--Picnic in the Bush--Distribution of
+Testaments--"Till He come"--"A Home and a hearty Welcome."
+
+
+Once more in Canada, Miss Macpherson records experience of an
+unusual kind:--
+
+"In one of the large villages we visited, an all-day prayer-meeting
+was held from 9 A.M. to 9 P.M., which proved a season of rich
+blessing. We found openings for mission work all around, farmers and
+their families willing to gather and sit any length of time with
+Bible and hymn-book in hand. We feel an open door is made for us here
+by the entrance of these little children, who have, proved excellent
+pioneer evangelists.
+
+"After this interesting tour, I was about to return to the Galt
+Home, when a messenger arrived with a pressing invitation to visit
+the Indians on the Chippawa Reserve, and tell them the story of our
+children. This come through their pastor, the Rev. Mr. Jacques, and
+although weary in body, a lady friend and I resolved to go forward to
+Port Elgin, situated on Lake Huron, whence a dear Canadian sister
+drove us along the ten miles of wild and poorly cultivated country
+leading to the Indian reserve. Fire had in past years ravaged the
+district for miles, leaving thousands of charred trunks of high
+trees. We enjoyed the scenery of the beautiful Sangeen, with its
+grand old forests in their finest clothing, and at times we caught
+sight of Lake Huron, lying calm as a mirror, with the last rays of
+the setting sun reflected upon its bosom.
+
+"On arriving at the little manse on Chippawa Hill we were serenaded
+by the Indians, who had already gathered by hundreds from far and
+near. We made a hasty repast, and felt grateful for the opportunity
+afforded us so unexpectedly of speaking to them: Our service was
+opened by singing in Indian a well-known hymn of praise. Then one of
+the evangelists spoke upon a portion of Scripture for twenty minutes,
+after the other had prayed, when an interpreter took half-an-hour to
+translate it into their own language, after which my companion sang
+"The Ninety and Nine," and I spoke. The interpreter repeated the
+story, and though our audience scarcely ever moved, the pastor's wife
+said they were feeling deeply."
+
+"Many a dear squaw and I clasped hands that night, and we gazed into
+each other's eyes, knowing full well, although unexpressed, that we
+were one in the same deep love for the weak and helpless."
+
+"While the choir sang another hymn, under the direction of the
+pastor's daughter, who is also the daily teacher of the young, we
+showed some of our photographs, and never were more grateful for that
+art. My lady friend sang another solo, and then began an
+indescribable scene. Chief John was first introduced to us, as we
+stood on a raised platform with a rail in front. The dear old man
+seemed much moved, and burst into an oration full of gratitude for
+our coming to visit his people. We acknowledged this, when the whole
+congregation of three to four hundred, young and old, passed and
+shook hands with us. Every now and then we were presented with gifts,
+made by the hands of the giver. Chief Henry's wife gave a beautiful
+bark basket ornamented with porcupine's quills. Then another head man
+gave us a bag made of beaten bark, saying this was made before they
+knew the white man. We thought that now all was over, but no. All
+were again seated, quietly and in order, the grace of ease and
+perfect harmony pervading the whole scene. The Indians had a wish to
+do us honour, and to show their love in their own way, we were each
+to receive from them an Indian name. We found this new name had
+required thought, and when saying 'Buzhu?' or 'How do you do?' they
+after this called us by the name they had given.
+
+"The pastor, (Mr. Jacques), and his wife and family, were truly
+parental in their actions, and are beloved by these simple-hearted
+Indians. It was a touching scene! There are ninety in Christian
+fellowship, and among them some old veterans of ninety years, with
+scarcely a grey hair, and more sprightly than the young men in their
+tribes to-day. As regularly as the sun rises, they are at the church
+door, though they live five miles off, through swamp and wood.
+
+"One thing charmed me,--the firm law made for them in connection
+with drink. Would that England would treat our white drunkards in the
+same way! A man, when found the worse for liquor, is fined from fifty
+to two hundred dollars, or put in prison for one month; also the man
+who sells it to him. Two more weeks are added if he will not tell who
+supplied him with the drink.
+
+"On leaving the next morning, I was addressed by my new name,
+'Ke-zha-wah-de-ze-qua' (Benevolence); my friend also was greeted as
+'Wah sage zhe go-qua' (Shining-sky lady)."
+
+The following account of a picnic in the Canadian Bush, at which an
+Indian chief was present, will not be out of place here:--
+
+"A picnic is a much more frequent entertainment in this country than
+in England, for the lovely bright days of a Canadian summer are so
+much more suitable than our damp and variable weather. Miss
+Macpherson was anxious to meet as many as possible of the kind
+friends in and around the Children's Home at Galt, who are interested
+in the Lord's work among the little ones. A picnic was suggested as
+most pleasant, and the Bush as more spacious than our cottage-rooms.
+So a general invitation was given through the ministers and the local
+papers.
+
+"Last Thursday was all that could be desired. Cool breezes tempered
+the hot sunbeams, and a brilliant blue sky was reflected in the
+still, flowing river. Such a lovely spot, too, is the 'Home' Bush! A
+partially cleared space near the river was chosen for the tables and
+seats; nearby a log-fire was kindled, on which huge kettles of water
+were boiled. One thing only marred our hopes for the day. Miss
+Macpherson herself was almost prostrate through a sharp attack of
+rheumatism, and oar hearts sank as we feared she would be unable to
+be among us. However, in the 'prayer of faith' we laid her deep need
+before the Lord, and He graciously gave her the faith to trust Him,
+and the courage to attempt, even in great pain, to rise from bed, and
+walk down to the Bush. The needed strength was marvellously given,
+and she was able to remain with us until sunset. Truly the Lord doeth
+wondrous things!
+
+"At four o'clock our guests began to arrive. One visitor was the
+centre of attraction--a chief of the Six Nation Indians, from the
+reserve near Brantford, who arrived earlier in the day with Mr. B.
+Needham, the missionary. Chief Jonathan, now a Christian, was dressed
+in the native costume, now worn only on high days and holidays. Most
+picturesque it was to see him seated on the green slope near the
+river, leaning against a tall maple tree. His coat and trousers of
+yellow buckskin were fringed at the edges. An embroidered scarlet
+sash was loosely tied around his waist. Then his head-gear was most
+striking. Long thin black hair hung over his shoulders,--not his own,
+but from the scalp of some poor Indian slain in warfare! This was
+surmounted by a turban cap of scarlet, and white beads, a row of
+feathers all round it, and in front three or four very long bright
+feathers standing erect. He was able to talk with us in English, and
+told us how his grandfathers owned all the land along the 'Grand
+River.' It is very pitiful to think how the poor Indians have been
+pushed further and further into little corners of their once proud
+territory, to make way for the white man, who, alas! brought to them
+the terrible 'fire-water' which has gone so far to prove their ruin
+and increase their desolation. Thank God that now they have earnest
+men of God, whom His own love and zeal for souls has so filled as to
+enable them to give up all for His glory, and go and live among these
+dark, despised ones, and take to them the glad tidings of a free
+salvation.
+
+"During our tea-hour great interest was taken by all our friends in
+the group of little ones enjoying their cake and tea, and Miss
+Macpherson told how good the Lord had been to the mission, in opening
+up homes for nearly all the sixty rescued children we brought out
+three weeks ago. After tea, our forty younger ones seated themselves
+in a ring upon the green grass, under the shade of the maple and
+hickory trees. They sang sweet hymns of Jesus, and repeated many
+precious texts for Mr. Needham to take as their messages of love to
+the Indian children in his Sunday-school. Little Bobbie gave as his
+text, 'God requireth that which is past.' Joey then stood up and
+repeated, 'Suffer little children to come unto Me.' Johnnie and
+Georgie gave, 'The eyes of the Lord are in every place,' and 'When my
+father and mother forsake me, then the Lord will take me up.'
+
+"A few questions followed from Miss Macpherson,--'How can any one
+get into heaven?' 'They must love God,' was the first answer. 'They
+must have their hearts changed,' said another. Then Bobbie's clear
+voice was heard, again, 'By being washed in the blood of Jesus!'
+Beautiful answer! wondrous truth!
+
+"The Indian chief stood gazing in calm wonder at this circle of
+happy English children. Presently Mr. Needham rose and said: 'The
+Chief tells me he is very anxious to say a few words to the "Queen"
+(_i.e.,_ Miss Macpherson), to the friends, and to the children.
+He understands English, but his thoughts flow more freely in his
+native tongue, and he has asked me to be his interpreter. He says
+that many years ago his fathers kindled the fire and smoked 'the pipe
+of peace' at such a gathering, and he thanks God for such a sight as
+this. He has never been so touched as this afternoon by the
+children's texts and answers. One hymn especially has struck him--
+
+
+ 'There's a home for little children,
+  Above the bright, blue sky.'
+
+
+'His fathers looked for the home of the spirits, but knew nothing of
+the Christian's heaven. There are still, in his nation, 700 pagans
+who sacrifice the white dog to the spirits, and are ever travelling
+towards the land of the setting sun. He hopes the pagan children will
+be taught about Jesus. He is so touched by the care taken of these
+little ones and by the work of the Christian lady who saves them. The
+Chief says he is very thankful I brought him here to-day. The circle
+on the grass reminds him of how the Indian children sit to sacrifice
+the white dog. He is going back to tell the children of his people
+all these blessed things.'
+
+"During Mr. Needham's interpretation the Chief stood by him, his
+usually impassive face quite lit up with animated interest. After a
+while he played to us on his cornet, his favourite tune being 'God
+save the Queen.' Mr. Needham told us a few deeply interesting details
+of his work among the Indians, and how the Lord is giving His
+blessing in conversions, and also in the temperance work just begun
+among them. He told us of an Indian mother who would walk eight miles
+to hear the Gospel, with one baby slung over her back, in its curious
+mummy-like cradle, and another slung on her arm! The poor Indians are
+beginning really to value the care and labour bestowed on them by the
+missionary whom God has so evidently prepared for and led into this
+work. And surely such a mission as this has a deep and solemn claim
+on the help and sympathy of those who have now possession of the land
+of the Red Indian, and enjoy the blessings he has lost. Let the
+white man, who brought him the 'fire-water,'--dire instrument of
+death!--seek now, though, alas! so late, to carry to him with all
+speed the blessed 'water of life,' that he may drink and live for
+ever.
+
+"As the shadows on the grass grew longer, and the west began to glow
+with the sunset crimson, the little ones, tired yet happy, were taken
+home to bed, and our kind friends bade as all farewell. When we look
+back on our happy picnic in the Bush, and raise our earnest prayers
+for the dear children God has rescued and shall yet rescue, let us
+not forget to plead for the mission to the Six Nation Indians, and to
+ask that the light of the glorious Gospel may speedily bring hope and
+gladness to many a poor dark heart."
+
+Miss Macpherson's next letter tells of many varied interests:--
+
+"DEAR FELLOW-WORKERS,--Our proposed three days of Christian
+fellowship and conference at the Galt Home are now over. Numbers were
+not large, the accommodation here being limited, bat several
+ministers, evangelists, and devoted brothers and sisters, who have
+true sympathy in the Master's work for the deaf children, waited on
+the Lord with us, and it has proved a time of great spiritual
+blessing, preparing us to go forth in the days that remain, strong to
+labour for our blessed Lord, just to do His will.
+
+"Leaving matters at Galt going on in their even way, only varied by
+the occasional return of children, who, from temper, ill-health, or
+some other cause, have not been able to remain in the situations
+first found for them, (which shows the value of our Homes on this
+side the Atlantic), we are again on the wing.
+
+"The Sunday after the conference was spent at Sheffield, a village
+containing a thousand inhabitants. On arriving we found the sheds
+around the church full of conveyances, betokening a good
+congregation. The people, looking bright in their white summer
+costumes, joined with wonderful heartiness in singing, 'All hail the
+power of Jesus' name.' Mr. Merry gave a powerful address on Ezek.
+xxxvii. 1-10. During the afternoon we learned that a time of revival
+had sprung from a few godly women meeting at each other's houses to
+pray for a blessing on the village. They felt the need of a definite
+object for their prayers, and selected a young man who was a great
+drunkard, and the disturber of every meeting. Soon they were rejoiced
+to learn that he was truly converted to the Lord without any human
+agency. Now his face is the brightest of the congregation, and none
+is more active to win souls than he. On leaving Sheffield we were
+grateful to know we had secured many hearts to pray for us and our
+little ones.
+
+"We took a large case of Testaments to the next place we visited; and
+an evangelist who had been labouring for some weeks there, sold for
+us; on Henry Moorhouse's plan, in the market-place, 600 Testaments,
+and gave away 7200 Gospel leaflets.
+
+"Since then we have stayed with the friends at St. Catharine's,
+exchanging words of cheer with Presbyterian, Episcopal, Methodist,
+and other brethren. Now we are staying with members of the Society
+of Friends at Fonthill. How sweet is this fellowship of saints,
+'endeavouring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace!'
+Here we learn with joy how our brother-in-law was used to the
+conversion of many in the villages around during the past winter.
+We have been comparing notes with four of the dear sisters here,
+contrasting our work at Ratcliff Highway, with its three mission-houses,
+our elder girls, widows, and lodging-houses, with theirs among navvies
+on Welland Canal, drunkards, and farmers and their wives living away
+in solitary nooks. The work is one presenting a full, free, and
+present salvation by a once crucified and now risen Lord.
+
+"The dear wife of the Lord's honoured servant, Jonathan Grubb, is
+giving great joy and help to the busy workers on this hill-top, by
+sending large parcels of tracts purchased from the various societies
+in England, assorted into packets during her winter hours. From the
+friends here they go to many a lone corner of the great continent.
+The postal charges are so small, that surely many a sister might
+share with us in sending a fresh packet now and again to those who
+have little reading of any kind; also the many gifts from the Tract
+Society have been most valuable in these country places.
+
+"Our children settled in the neighbourhood of Font-hill are growing
+up into manhood, some of them becoming earnest Christians.
+
+"Our stay is necessarily brief; distances are great, and strength
+small; but we ever realise, 'He leadeth us.'
+
+"Dear fellow-workers, let us watch and pray, and labour on, 'till He
+come.'"
+
+"Till He come!". It is sweet with these words to close this
+imperfect record of the labours of the Lord's beloved handmaid;
+especially when we look back to the time twenty years' before, when
+the "blessed hope" was first made the source of new strength and
+power to her soul. May not the words of the letter quoted above be
+adopted with little alteration by every Christian labourer? Our stay
+can be but brief,--perhaps not one working hour is yet left to us,
+and how emphatically do the words now come to us, "Redeeming the time
+_because_ the days are evil;" so evil, that were it not for the
+sure word of prophecy, we should lie down in despair. If we looked to
+present agency to change the scenes of sin and sorrow around us, all
+hope would vanish. But we have "a hope that maketh not ashamed," and
+"that blessed hope" is an "anchor of the soul" "The work is great,"
+great it has always been, but how much greater now that doors
+hitherto closed are open in every part of the world; from every
+country the cry is, "Come over and help us." Many a solitary pioneer
+has fallen, oh! that others might come forth to fill up the ranks.
+"Strength is small;" "Without me ye can do nothing;" "Is there not an
+appointed warfare (margin) to man upon earth?" He, who has appointed
+the warfare will not send any at their own charges. The "blessed
+hope" strengthens the weak hands and confirms the feeble knees. He
+will give the grace, the wisdom, the strength, all that is needed,
+day by day. _"Till He come."_ Three little words--no more--but
+who can tell the comfort, the strength, the sweetness this hope
+brings to those who are watching for the coming of their King?
+
+
+       *       *       *       *       *
+
+
+The following deeply affecting lines are from the same pen as those
+before quoted. Miss Geldard, the gifted writer, was for a time a much
+valued fellow-labourer both in England and Canada:--
+
+
+A HOME AND A HEARTY WELCOME.
+
+  All day has the air been busy,
+   As the daylight hours went by,
+  With the laugh of the children's gladness,
+   Or their pitiful, hopeless cry.
+
+  But now all is hushed in silence,
+   They are lying in slumber deep:
+  While I ask, in this solemn midnight,
+   _Where_ do the children sleep?
+
+  We know there are children sleeping
+   In many a happy home,
+  Where sickness rarely enters,
+   Where want may never come.
+
+  Their hands in prayer were folded
+   Ere they laid them down to rest,
+  And on rosy lip and soft white brow
+   Were a mother's kisses pressed.
+
+  They sleep and dream of angels;
+   Ah! well may their dreams be fair!--
+  Their home is now so like a heaven,
+   They seem already there.
+
+  But where are the children sleeping
+    In these wretched streets around,
+  Where sin, and want, and sorrow
+    Their choicest haunt have found?
+
+  Will you climb this broken staircase,
+    And glance through this shattered door;
+  Oh, can there be children sleeping
+    On that filthy and crowded floor?
+
+  Yes! old and young together,
+    A restless, moaning heap;
+  O God! while they thus are sleeping,
+    How dare Thy children sleep?
+
+  Does the night air make you shiver,
+    As the stream sweeps coldly by?
+  (Cold as the hearts of the heedless),
+    Here, too, do the children lie.
+
+  An archway their only shelter;
+    The pavement their nightly bed;
+  Thou, too, when on earth, dear Saviour,
+    Hadst nowhere to lay _Thy_ head.
+
+  So we know Thou art here, dear Master,
+    Thy form we can almost see;
+  Do we tear Thy sad voice saying,
+    "Ye did it not to Me?"
+
+  Yes, chill is the wind-swept archway,
+    The pavement is cold and hard
+  Better the workhouse coffin,
+    Softer the graveyard sward.
+
+  Thank God! yet we say it weeping,
+    Thank God for many a grave!
+  There sleep the little children
+    Whom Christians would not save!
+
+  Yet smiles through our tears are dawning
+    When we think of the hope that lies
+  In our children's Land of Promise,
+    'Neath the clear Canadian skies.
+
+  Though the frost he thick on the windows,
+    Though the roof with snow is white,
+  We know our Canadian children
+    Are safe and warm to-night.
+
+  There thick are the homespun blankets,
+    And the buffalo robes are warm;
+  Then why should these children shiver
+    Out here in the winter storm?
+
+  Why wait till the prison claims them?
+    Why wait till of hope bereft
+  For that fair young girl the river
+    Be the only refuge left?
+
+  Come! help us, answer the message
+    Now pealing across the seas--
+  "A home and a hearty welcome
+    For hundreds such as these!"
+
+  It comes from broad Ontario,
+    And from Nova Scotia's shore;
+  They have loved and sheltered our gathered waifs,
+    They have room for thousands more.
+
+       S. R. GELDARD.
+
+
+
+
+CHAPTER IX.
+
+Questions and Answers--Sorrowful Cases--Testimonies from those who
+have visited Canada--Stewardship.
+
+
+The fallowing plain answers to practical questions, are written by
+those well acquainted with the work:--
+
+I. "Are these children really _street Arabs?_ If not, where do
+you find so many?"
+
+In the early days of the work, before the establishment of School
+Boards and kindred institutions, a large proportion of the children
+were actually taken from the streets. Now, the rescue work begins
+farther back, and seeks to get hold of the little ones before they
+hare had a taste of street life and become contaminated. A policeman
+brings one sometimes, having found it in a low lodging-house,
+forsaken by its worthless, drunken parents. Christian ladies are ever
+on the look-out for the little ones in their work among the poor, and
+many a child has been taken straight from the dying bed of its only
+remaining parent to Miss Macpherson. "Rescued from a workhouse life"
+might be written on many a bright little brow, and "saved from drink"
+on many more. Poor, delicate widows, striving vainly to keep a large,
+young family, have often proved their true, unselfish love by giving
+up one or two to Miss Macpherson to be taken to Canada. Such are
+encouraged always to write to and keep in loving memory the dear
+toiling mother at home. Widowed fathers in ill-health, and short of
+work, feeling their utter helplessness to do for their motherless
+flock, have come to Miss Macpherson entreating her to take care of
+some of them.
+
+2. "How come the Canadian farmers to be willing to take these
+children?"
+
+From a business point of view this is quite easily explained. Labour
+is so scarce out there, and hired help so dear, while _food_ is
+_so plentiful,_ that the Canadian farmer finds it quite worth
+his while to take a little boy from the old country, whom he can
+train and teach as his own, and who very soon will repay him in quick
+ability for farm labour.
+
+3. "Are you sure the children are really _better off_ there?"
+
+Every boy in Canada has before him a definite hope for the future.
+If he be steady, industrious, and of average intelligence, he may
+reasonably look to being independent some day, to owning land of his
+own, and attaining an honourable position in Canada. People do not
+amass fortunes there as a rule, but they may all live in comfort and
+plenty, and what they have is their own. Surely this is a brighter
+prospect than the ceaseless round of toil at desk or counter, in
+which so many in England,--even the more fortunate,--spend their
+youth helping to make rich men richer.
+
+4. "Among the hundreds are there not some failures, some exceptions?
+What becomes of them?"
+
+Yes, there are disappointments and failures in this work as well as
+in every other. We do not take little angels to Canada, but very
+human little boys and girls with every variety of temper and
+character, and sometimes hereditary disadvantages which it is hard to
+battle with. But patient forbearance and gentle treatment and time do
+so much for them. And often a kind farmer has asked to be allowed to
+keep, and "try again" the wilful little fellow who has tried to run
+away or proved tiresome to manage.
+
+"Ninety-eight per cent, of our children do well, and for the two per
+cent, we do the best we can. If any circumstance arises making it
+desirable for a farmer to give up a boy, he is at once returned to
+the Home, where he is received and kept until another more suitable
+place is found for him."
+
+Should any be still blinded to the blessings of emigration for the
+young, surely their eyes will be opened on reading the following
+facts as related by Miss Macpherson:--
+
+"William and Mary were brother and sister living in a terrible
+warren near Drury Lane. The boy's employment was to gather rags and
+bones. Their parents had been buried by the workhouse. Their
+condition was too deplorable to be described. A year's training was
+not lost upon this sister and brother. They came to Canada in 1873.
+Now, could yon see them at nineteen and twenty-two--able to read and
+write, well-clothed with their own honest earnings, having saved, in
+1877, one hundred dollars; and this year, 1879, William is having
+$100 as wages, and Mary $60. They come from time to time to visit the
+Home. William is thinking of having a farm of his own.
+
+"A. B.--Who was he? The son of a drunken woman, who, when very
+tipsy still comes in from Ratcliff Highway to abuse us at
+Spitalfields. Alfred has been many years in a lawyer's family, and
+has saved enough money to be apprenticed as an engineer. He was a
+wise boy to be guided by the kind counsel of those he served. We are
+not satisfied with earthly adoptions only; we continue to pray that
+each one may be adopted into the family of those who are washed in
+the blood of the Lamb.
+
+"Well do we remember the winter, when a wild man from Seven Dials
+discovered that we had the little Annie, of whom he used to make such
+traffic in the gin palaces; though we had no right to her. The lamb
+was but six years old. Thank God, an ocean separates her from his
+drunken villanies. Now she is with kind-hearted, homely people, the
+companion and playmate of their daughter.
+
+"S. W., seven years old; so puny--only a few pounds weight--owing to
+her being starved and beaten by a drunken stepfather. Now, a year in
+a happy home, going to school regularly, is companion to an only
+child, and lacks no earthly comfort. The poor mother was ill-used in
+the dens where she lived by her neighbours, for having, they said,
+sold her child. We received a photograph of the little one from her
+happy Canadian home; this closed every mouth, for it could not be
+gainsaid.
+
+"Whilst stopping at one of the railway stations, we were accosted by
+a young man, who told us he was one of our old boys of ten years ago,
+but was now settled in that town. He had 'rolled' about a good deal,
+he said, but at last had settled down, and never was so happy in his
+life before. He had sent for his brother to come and live with him.
+Since then John and his wife have spent a day at the Gait Home, and
+they think in another year, if they continue to prosper, that they
+also would like to be entrusted with a little one. Thus openings are
+ever occurring for those yet to follow."
+
+Since the above was written other young emigrants, now married and
+settled in homes of their own, have offered to adopt orphans and
+children, homeless as they once were themselves.
+
+The following are independent testimonies of those who have
+travelled or are residing in Canada:--
+
+The late Sir Charles Reed, Chairman of the London School Board,
+stated that in his visit to Canada last year he had given special
+attention to Miss Macpherson's work, and as his inquiries and
+investigations were made unofficially, the information he obtained
+might be looked upon as quite impartial. He was gratified by hearing
+from the Governor-General, Lord Dufferin, at Quebec, that he was well
+informed as to the work, and bore testimony to its worth. He (Sir
+Charles) was prepared to say that the children were warmly welcomed
+and kindly treated. He also, without making his purpose known,
+visited some of the homes where the children were located, and what
+he saw only confirmed what he had been told, as to the Canadians'
+appreciation of the children. They were well occupied, well fed, and
+as happy as they could be. He had entered into conversation with the
+children as to familiar scenes in the East of London, and learned how
+pleased they were with their new homes.
+
+At Toronto he met Miss Bilbrough, a lady in charge of one of the
+Homes, and a person enthusiastically devoted to this merciful work,
+who thus became a true "Sister of Mercy." God has endowed woman
+largely for this Christian ministry. In half an hour she thoroughly
+interested him in the work, and put him in possession of such facts
+as convinced him that the work was one which in England demanded
+Christian sympathy and support. It was work which goes on quietly,
+and is little talked of; but it ought to be, as he trusted it would
+be, widely known. He was glad to say that through the School Board it
+was becoming known to intelligent Christian men both in and out of
+Parliament. It is good to work in faith, as those in charge of this
+work do; but it is also good to have evidence as an encouragement to
+faith, and as a corroboration of the work. Such evidence he, as in a
+sense a special commissioner, had qualified himself to give, and it
+gave him much pleasure to render it.
+
+"WOODVILLE PLACE, DUNDEE, 13th August 1873.
+
+"MY DEAR MISS MACPHERSON,--Various ministerial and pastoral
+occupations, since my return home, have prevented me from carrying
+out my intention of putting into shape my impressions and thoughts
+about Canada and your work. If the Lord will, I shall do so at no
+great distance of time. Meanwhile, allow me to express in a few words
+my mature judgment in regard to the leading features of your work. It
+seems to me to furnish the key to the solution of one of the most
+difficult problems in Home Mission work.
+
+"The character of the training to which the children are subjected
+previous to their removal to Canada appears to be all that could be
+desired. I was delighted with their knowledge of Scripture, their
+general intelligence, their respectful bearing to their superiors,
+their promptness of obedience, and other evidences of religious
+conviction working itself out in their general conduct. The
+extraordinary care exhibited in the selection of homes and in the
+placing of them out in Canada strikes me as one of the most important
+and valuable elements of the work. Most of all was I charmed with the
+noble Christian character of your fellow-workers, and was thoroughly
+convinced that a very remarkable measure of the blessing of God rests
+upon the entire movement. I anticipate the most precious results for
+time, and in view of eternity the issues of the movement will exceed
+all calculation. I could say much more, but for the present must
+forbear. For the sake of the poor, dear, lost little ones in our
+large towns; for the sake of Canada, of whose wants I am not
+ignorant; for the sake of humanity, and, above all, for the Lord's
+sake, I heartily wish you were enabled to carry every summer
+thousands instead of hundreds of little children across the Atlantic
+to be settled in those beautiful Canadian regions, where by God's
+blessing they may grow up 'trees of righteousness, the planting of
+the Lord, that He might be glorified.'
+
+"Go on, my dear friend; the Lord is manifestly with you, and He will
+bless you still-aye, and more than ever.
+
+"JOHN MACPHERSON."
+
+_"November 5th, 1874._
+
+"Having just returned from a six weeks' visit to Canada, I wish to
+add my testimony to the many already given of the very valuable work
+of Miss Macpherson in the three Homes which she has established in
+Canada for young British destitute children, each Home under the
+direction of devoted and much esteemed Christian ladies.
+
+"Lady Cavan and I found much pleasure in visiting all these Homes,
+situated in different parts of the Dominion of Canada, in each of
+which children are received from two to twelve years of age, looked
+after with motherly affection. The greater number sent out this year
+had been provided for.
+
+"There is a great demand for young children in this country, where
+domestic and farming servants are so few, and numbers of these
+children are adopted into families, the greatest care being taken to
+place them with kind and good people. They are either trained for the
+place which they will occupy, or, for the most part, are loved and
+treated as children of the house.
+
+"It needs but to see for oneself the happy, bright faces of the
+children, to be satisfied of the value and importance of this
+transplanting institution for the rescuing of children from their
+degraded position, for which they are in nowise responsible. May many
+be brought under the Christian, happy influence of Miss Macpherson,
+through the liberality of those interested in our poor."
+
+"CAVAN."
+
+What a work of blessing is being carried on by the different Homes
+here! My soul has been greatly refreshed this Christmas in seeing
+some of the dear boys return to 'Blair Athol,' to spend a few days
+with our sister Miss Macpherson. The change in appearance, from
+London's hapless poverty and degradation, to this glorious clime,--
+bright, rosy faces, full of laughter and fun, and yet deeply
+interested in the dear, loving Saviour, whose Spirit thus practically
+tells His own sweet story of love to their young hearts. One dear
+fellow specially delighted me. I was present as he was ushered in
+with his little brother, his eyes full of tears of gratitude and joy
+as he said to Miss Macpherson, 'Please, Miss, here's a present for
+you,' drawing a large, fat, beautiful goose from under his arm,
+carefully packed. Excuse my adjectives, but I cannot help it, for I
+fairly loved the boys; and when I looked back but four years, and
+contrasted their hapless life (workhouse children) in one of our
+English provincial towns, my spirit was full of gladness, and I
+thanked God for these broad lands, and the untiring energy of the
+band of workers and friends who so intelligently and successfully
+save them from poverty, crime, and wretchedness, and by change of
+position, sympathy, common sense, and Christian love, fit them for
+useful, prosperous lives here, and, by grace, for eternal glory
+yonder.
+
+"HENRY VARLEY"
+
+The following is from a Canadian friend and benefactor:--
+
+"Dear Miss Macpherson,--My attention has been called to a
+communication referring unfavourably to your work in bringing out the
+little waifs and strays from England, and placing them in farmers'
+homes in the country of this Canada of ours. I have thought that
+perhaps a letter from me, giving my experience, might not be out of
+place.
+
+"Fully eleven years ago I first heard of your intention to bring out
+some young emigrants to Canada, and as I heard that they were of the
+degraded, vicious, and criminal class, I did not look with favour
+upon the effort. Being in England shortly after the first lot came
+out, without making my object known, I went down to the East End of
+London repeatedly, and personally inquired into the working of the
+scheme, saw the gathering in from the widows' families, the orphans,
+the destitute, and those worse than orphans. I saw the cleaning, the
+fresh clothing, the training in work and discipline, and, above all,
+the schooling in religious teaching from God's Book, and singing
+sweet Gospel hymns. I was satisfied that this part of the work was
+being well done in England, and great care exercised in selecting
+only suitable cases and giving lengthened training; so that the girls
+and boys from the youngest to those of thirteen and fourteen years of
+age, when drafted to Canada in fifties and hundreds, looked likely
+youngsters for workers in this land of plenty.
+
+"After my return to Canada, having got thoroughly interested in the
+work, seeing at least that it was doing a good work for London in
+relieving the over-population there, I decided, if in my judgment the
+work was as well cared for in Canada, and as much care exercised in
+placing them out in homes as in gathering in and training, then it
+would prove a good work for Canada also.
+
+"Now, (after over ten years), I can say, from large personal
+experience, that the placing of several thousands of these young,
+sturdy, willing workers in the homes of our Canadian fanners, through
+this agency, has been a blessing to Canada, not only as workers, but
+also in many cases carrying good religious influences with them. The
+greatest care is exercised in selecting suitable homes, and in no
+case is a child placed out unless the applicant brings good
+certificates of character from the minister or justice of the peace.
+In these homes of the farmers the youngsters are well-fed, well-clothed,
+and well-treated, in most cases made one of the family. I have
+constantly inquired, in various localities, as to how these
+young people are getting on, from prominent men, such as judges,
+members of Parliament, mayors and councillors of towns, ministers and
+fanners, and am satisfied as a whole they turn out as well as the
+average of young people from any class of society. Some prove
+unsuitable--these are returned to the Distributing Homes and given a
+fresh start; some few turn out badly or sickly--these are returned to
+England: but compared with the large number that turn out well the
+average is very small. I know the Distributing Homes at Knowlton, at
+Belleville, and at Galt; they are fine, comfortable, substantial
+buildings, and at Galt there is a farm of 100 acres of land. I know
+the workers and the oversight they take in training until placed out,
+the care taken in placing out, how they visit and correspond with
+them, and I have seen and possess hundreds of letters from these
+youngsters, written voluntarily by them from their new homes, many of
+which have been published in Canadian as well as English papers from
+time to time. I have seen and possess hundreds of photographs of
+these waifs and strays as taken into the gathering Homes in London,
+then brought out to Canada, then, after being here two, five, and
+even ten years, the progress being marvellous.
+
+"Now, in conclusion, having within the past month visited the Galt
+Home and Farm, with more than fifty healthy, hearty, vigorous
+youngsters being trained and fitted for work among Canadian farmers,
+it is my firm conviction that this work is being well done on both
+sides of the Atlantic. It is being carried on upon right principles
+and from pure motives, and God has owned and blessed it wonderfully.
+There is not only room for, but a hearty welcome also for hundreds
+more of such emigrants. The work has proved a blessing to Canada as
+well as a blessing to England, and those engaged in it should receive
+hearty encouragement on both sides of the Atlantic.
+
+"--Yours faithfully,
+
+"T. J. CLAXTON.
+
+"MONTREAL, _July 1st, 1881._"
+
+Miss Macpherson writes after Lord Dufferin's visit to the Galt Home:--
+
+"His lordship said, 'We meet your children everywhere, and they are
+so happy; we have crossed the ocean with them, and even last night
+where we were slaying we were waited upon by one of your boys as a
+page,--he did it well too.'"
+
+STEWARDSHIP.
+
+May Miss Macpherson's solemn words on stir up many to follow her
+self-denying efforts, and may the same blessing attend them.
+
+"Since 1868, we have been receiving the love offerings of the Lord's
+almoners, and under the direction of two auditors and a public
+accountant, a yearly balance sheet has been issued. To the praise of
+the Lord who knoweth the needs of the destitute ones we have sought
+to help, we have not been permitted to contract a debt, or been left
+in want of bread or clothing at any time. Our faith has been
+frequently proved, at times for days, and at others for years. Yet
+our 'God is love,' and we are in His own wondrous school, and bow to
+every trial.
+
+"From 4000 to 6000 pounds annually have been the requirements of the
+mission. As it came, so was the money spent, leaving us often with a
+very small balance, but always on the right side.
+
+"When the funds have been low we have often been led to wonder and
+adore the love that placed our burdens upon the hearts of others,
+causing them to consider Him who loved them, and who had enjoined us
+to go forth and sympathise with the 'Christies' grinding their old
+organs, and the 'Jessicas,' with broken hearts, crying for bread in
+the alleys of our great city.
+
+"Our sainted sister, Miss Havergal, once earnestly entreated us to
+write on about the needs of little children. Mrs. Herbert Taylor, now
+in glory, said, 'Oh continue unto the end pleading the Christ-like
+cause.'
+
+"Yes! we are stewards, and not of money only.
+
+"Do these departed workers regret one effort made for Jesus? It is
+only now we can watch with Him for the little children,--the
+opportunities for self-denial will soon be past. No more long
+voyages, or sleepless nights,--soon the Lord Himself will come, our
+bungling and failures all blotted out by the blood on the Mercy-seat.
+Let us employ every remaining hour for our Lord as He leads us forth;
+let the eye rest upon the grace that was in Jesus when He took the
+little children in His arms (Mark x. 13-16). How full of tenderness
+as we see Him placing the child by Himself (Luke ix. 47, 48). Would
+we follow Him, then shall we be faithful stewards of every gift with
+which He has entrusted us. When we have had nothing left but
+Himself,-so near to faith's vision,--then how inexpressibly full has
+shone out one or other of the 33,000 precious, never-failing promises.
+
+"Precious Comforter! drawing ever near to His oft 'perplexed, reasoning,
+troubled' ones; waiting to comfort them; showing them His hands and His
+feet, and lifting those hands to bless them (Luke xxiv)."
+
+
+  "'A little while' for patient vigil keeping,
+      To face the stem, to wrestle with the strong;
+   'A little while,' to sow the seed with weeping,
+      Then bind the sheaves and sing the harvest song.
+
+  "And He who is Himself the Gift and Giver--
+      The future glory and the present smile,
+   With the bright promise of the glad 'for ever,'
+      Will light the shadows of the 'little while!'"
+
+
+"YET A LITTLE WHILE, AND HE THAT SHALL COME WILL COME,
+AND WILL NOT TARRY."
+
+
+
+
+THE END.
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+
+End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of God's Answers, by Clara M. S. Lowe
+
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