© The John Rylands University Library, The University of Manchester
Lewis Henry Court was born into a Bible Christian family in Kingsbrompton, Somerset. He became a local preacher at the age of seventeen and entered the full time ministry four years later. He served in home circuits for forty-two years mainly in the south-west of England, before he was forced into retirement by ill-health in 1934.
Court was a gifted writer and artist, who produced several books on Methodist history and related subjects including a biography of the evangelist William Ready entitled
Court died in January 1960 at his home in Minehead, Somerset.
The Bible Christian Church was founded by a dissident Wesleyan Methodist preacher William O'Bryan, who began a plan of independent evangelism on 18th October 1815 in North Cornwall. The first society of twenty-two people was established at Lake Farm in the small Devon village of Shebbear and by Christmas 1819 O'Bryan had 980 followers including 66 preachers. They were termed Bible Christians because of their practice of regularly consulting the scriptures for guidance.
The movement spread rapidly in the southwest of England despite opposition and by 1820 missions had been established in the Channel Islands and Kent. The Bible Christians were noted for their evangelistic zeal and extensive use of female preachers. They adopted the typical Methodist feature of an annual Conference with minutes, an itinerant ministry, class tickets etc. This facilitated the later union with other Methodist Churches. The Bible Christians had however a predominantly Radical or Liberal political outlook, which helped to distinguish them from the older Wesleyan tradition.
In 1829 O'Bryan withdrew from membership, taking with him a few supporters to form the Arminian Bible Christians. However he spent much of his time in America and in 1835 the new body re-joined the original Bible Christians. O'Bryan's claim to leadership then ended and he spent most of his remaining years in the United States. The mantle of leadership was taken over by James Thorne, who guided the affairs of the Connexion with considerable skill for the next forty years.
Throughout the nineteenth century, the heartland of the Bible Christian Connexion remained in the southwest of England, although there was considerable local success in other areas of the country including Kent, the Channel Islands and parts of South Wales. The first Bible Christian overseas mission was established in Canada in 1845 and this was followed by Australia (1850), New Zealand (1878) and China (1885).
The Bible Christians joined with the United Methodist Free Churches and the Methodist New Connexion in 1907 to form the United Methodist Church. At the time of union they had 220 ministers, 15,00 local preachers and 34,640 members.
The collection was given by Lewis Court to the Methodist Church in November 1949 in a special ceremony at the Book Room in City Road, London. Many of Court's ministerial colleagues from the former Bible Christian and United Methodist Churches were present for the occasion. .
The collection was preserved in the Methodist Archives at City Road and was transferred with the rest of the Archives to the John Rylands University Library of Manchester in 1977.
This important collection of manuscripts and printed material was amassed by the Bible Christian minister and historian Lewis Henry Court over a period of about fifty years. It documents the history of the Bible Christian Connexion from 1815 to 1907 and of the United Methodist Church from 1907 to 1932. Prior to depositing the material in 1949 he collected further items.
The collection consists of letters, press cuttings, magazines and illustrations. It is a composite collection of material from many different sources, periods and places. The following main subject areas can be identified:.
a. Correspondence of the O'Bryan family, 1815-65.
b. Letters of prominent preachers, 19th cent.
c. Material concerning missionary activities in Australia, New Zealand, Canada and China.
d. Material concerning the Methodist Church [post-mission period] in Australia, New Zealand and Canada.
e. Photographs and portrait engravings of several hundred Bible Christian and United Methodist ministers, 1840-1932.
f. Correspondence concerning the preservation of the Lewis Court collection, 20th cent.
The object has been to provide the researcher with a detailed description of each document within the collection.
Wherever possible people mentioned in the collection have been identified in notes after each entry and their significance indicated. All the source material used in this identification can be consulted at the John Rylands University Library - see list of printed sources below.
In the case of undated items, every effort has been made to date the item from internal evidence. Such dates have been placed in square brackets.
Mr Roger Thorne, the Archivist of the Plymouth and Exeter districts of the Methodist Church, kindly provided assistance with regard to historical research for this catalogue.
Lewis Court Bible Christian Collection, MAW. Ms. 9 (etc)., Methodist Archives and Research Centre, John Rylands University Library, University of Manchester.
The collection is open to any accredited reader.
Photocopies and photographic copies of material in the archive can be supplied for private study purposes only, depending on the condition of the documents.
A number of items within the archive remain within copyright under the terms of the Copyright, Designs and Patents Act 1988; it is the responsibility of users to obtain the copyright holder's permission for reproduction of copyright material for purposes other than research or private study.
Prior written permission must be obtained from the Library for publication or reproduction of any material within the archive. Please contact the Keeper of Manuscripts and Archives, John Rylands University Library, 150 Deansgate, Manchester, M3 3EH.
A catalogue of the collection was produced by Gareth Lloyd in April 1995. The present catalogue has been produced to replace this with an ISAD(G) compliant catalogue.
Containing important dates in the history of the Bible Christian Church.
From
Containing a manuscript account by William Ready of his life and family background.
From
From an unnamed newspaper re the unveiling of a memorial tablet to William Ready.
From an unnamed newspaper re the work in New Zealand of William Ready.
By Lewis Court from
Of the South Australian Bible Christian Conference to be held in the Franklin Street Church, Adelaide.
Illustrating the ministry of William Ready in New Zealand:.
-William Ready - the last photograph taken before his death in 1927.
-Methodist Church at Ponsonby in Auckland.
-Ready's first church in New Zealand.
-William and Mrs Ready and their three sons 1916.
-William Ready, taken in his presidential year.
-William Ready's class of Chinese converts [1897] [2 copies].
-William Ready's first home in Christchurch, where he lived with Mr and Mrs Smith [2 copies].
- Miss Gay Crocker, who came from Chagford in Devon and was Ready's only Sunday School teacher in New Zealand. She later married Mr W. Thorne and became Mayoress of Brisbane in Australia.
- William Ready at the time of his arrival in New Zealand in 1887.
- The `tea meeting' at Garrison Hall, marking William Ready's return to England in 1897.
- Workers at the `tea meeting' [1897].
- Scene of William Ready's first mission in New Zealand.
- William Ready with his three sons, all dressed in army uniform [c.1918].
From Thomas C. Millidge at New Orphan Houses [Muller's Orphanage], Ashley Down, Bristol to Lewis Court.
He wishes to express his gratitude for Court's biography of William Ready entitled Ready Aye Ready. It is a delightful account of one the old boys of Mullers Orphanage and is of particular interest to Millidge as he knew Ready during the three years that he was here.
Ready was admitted to the orphanage on February 4th 1870 at the age of ten, and left on 22nd June 1874 to be apprenticed to Mr Perryman. Millidge had the pleasure of seeing Ready again on the two occasions that Ready returned to England on leave from New Zealand and visited the orphanage.
Mr Green has suggested that Court might like a copy of the souvenir booklet, issued to celebrate the centenary of the founding of the orphanage. Reference is made to various meetings held as part of the celebrations.
From Mrs William Ready [in New Zealand] to [Lewis Court].
Reference is made to a visit from E. R. Winnis? a granddaughter of Mr Vanstone [either Thomas Grills or Isaac Balkwill]. They are a farming family and Mr Winnis? used also to be a butcher when they were in Dunedin. They were very good to the Ready family during their early days in Denedin. Mr Winnis had a brother called William in London, who was an important man in the Bible Christian Church there. The Ready family stayed with him when they were in England.
She sees that 123 copies of [Court's biography of her husband Ready Aye Ready] have been sold, leaving 8 copies unsold.
They all have colds at present, which is normal at this time of year. They are making a big effort to pay off the debts owed on the church.
[From a New Zealand periodical].
Re the forthcoming biography of William Ready by Lewis Court [Ready Aye Ready], and appealing on behalf of Mrs Ready for any interesting material which could be included in the book to be sent to her at 15 Cotter Avenue, Remuera, Auckland. She would be particularly interested in photographs of the City Hall in Dunedin at the time when her husband was preaching there.
From
Reporting a meeting addressed by William Ready at the Garrison Hall on Sunday evening last. Two thousand people were in attendance. Reference is made to Ready's ability to draw crowds with his gift for public speaking.
From [Alfred Charles] Phillips at `Shebbear', 37 Winston Road, Moordown, Bournemouth to [Lewis Court].
He was very grateful to receive the letter and the enclosed list of Bible Christian memorabilia to be preserved at the Methodist Publishing House. The collection was `a happy thought, well carried out'. Phillips is sorry that he cannot attend the `historic' meeting next Thursday but his thoughts and prayers will be with Court. He has known their esteemed ministerial colleague [Charles] Stedeford for well over sixty years, and is pretty sure that he remembers that Stedeford was appointed as a young minister in about 1885 or 1886 to Newport on the Isle of Wight. Phillips is away from home at the moment and is therefore unable to check the exact date. He has watched Stedeford's highly successful career ever since with much pride and sends his best wishes to his friend at this time. There will doubtless be many other veterans present, brethren like [Herbert William] Horwill, [Albert James] Conibear, [John Ford] Reed, W. J. ???, [William Robert Arscott] Budd, [Charles Alfred] Ashelford, [Richard Henry] Osborne and Richard Pyke. Phillips sends his affectionate greetings to all of them. At the same time he recalls happy memories of leaders like [William Blake] Lark, [John Herridge] Batt, [John] Luke, [Alexander] Trengove, [William James] Hocking and [Frederick William] Bourne, to all of whom he owes so much, as he does also to [John Britton] Stedeford. Indeed, if he had the time and the space he could name many more worthy men of that generation.
Phillips is of one mind with Court in not wishing to perpetuate divisions within Methodism, but is nevertheless wistful for those early days, when `our fellowship was more like that of a family gathering, and certainly in the rise & progress of the B.C. Church there is nothing of which to be ashamed of, but much for which we may be proud & grateful to God'.
He prays that they may have a happy and inspiring meeting and that the collection of letters etc will long be preserved and put to good use.
From [Stuart Rees] Strongman at `Braemar', 13 Oak Tree Avenue, Green Lane, Coventry, to [Lewis] Court.
Strongman has no claim to any distinction within the ministry, except for the fact that he was among the last candidates to be trained at Shebbear College for the Bible Christian ministry. He entered the College a Bible Christian and left a United Methodist. he is however very pleased to agree to Court's request and has sent the enclosed folder, with the hope that the documents will suit Court's purpose and can be included in his collection. If Court requires more information, then he will gladly provide it. Strongman would also be pleased if Court could include in his collection, the photograph of Strongmans's father-in-law [Thomas] Spillett. This would greatly please his wife and would have also pleased Spillett's other daughter who died just yesterday.
Strongman's mother-in-law survived her husband by twenty-five years and died in 1945 at the age of ninety.
Court may be in possession of Spillett's memoir. Strongman wrote an appreciation of his father-in-law for the U M Magazine but has lost his copy. [James Henry] Blackwell wrote the obituary for the Conference minutes.
Court will no doubt recall that Spillett was stationed in Kingsbrompton in 1913-14, the year before Strongman married his daughter.
Strongman's wife remembers meeting Court and his wife at Mrs Carding's in Roadwater and in later years at a Wolverhampton Women's missionary rally.
His wife recalls that Mrs Carding and Gwen were good friends, and wonders if Court has heard any news of Gwen since her marriage.Strongman would be interested to hear details of Court's research collection.
From [Richard enry] Osborne at 31 Calton Road, Gloucester, to Lewis Court at Minehead in Somerset.
He is sending under a separate cover a number of items for Court's Bible Christian collection.
They have not met for a very long time, not since Court called when they were in Launceston. Osborne has however watched Court's career with great interest and considers that his prose and poetry are of a high quality.
He notes that Court entered the ministry three years before Osborne, although the two years that Osborne spent at Shebbear College would almost balance that out. Court cannot be far from his eightieth year and Osborne is aged seventy seven and beginning to feel his age. He has been afflicted for some time and he has received a stern doctor's warning to allow nothing to worry him, which is difficult to do in these days of high prices and insufficient salaries.
Reference is made to the death of Court's wife.
Following Osborne's superannuation, he came to this circuit and laboured for five years more until his health gave way in 1945.
From [Richard Henry] Osborne in Gloucester to [Lewis] Court.
He was very pleased to receive Court's letter and wishes his project [Court's collection of Bible Christian manuscripts] all possible success.
Truly Court's life has been a marvel. His courage in studying `Butler's Analogy' is considerable, especially considering Court's lack of a college education. Osborne read it some years ago in connection with the Christian Evidence Society.
Osborne and his wife have read together Court's lovely sonnet on J. W. Robertson and were greatly stirred.
He is surprised that they have been apart for so many years, for they have so much in common, such as love of reading and the beauties of nature. They must try to meet. Unfortunately he is under doctor's orders to avoid exertion or excitement.
Court asked what the cup was used for? Osborne thinks that it was used in the communion service, though before his time. He sent it to Court as a result of Mr Burton's letter, and expects that he will be able to find a place for it.
From [William Ernest] German at Wesley Villa, Pateley Bridge, near Harrogate, Yorkshire, to Lewis Court.
He is sending to Court the two volumes of the Bible Christian Magazine, one of which was formerly in the possession of [William] Oates, who Court may remember.
He is pleased that Court is enjoying success in gathering materials for the completion of his collection.
From William Ernest German at Low Sutton, Kirkby Road, Ripon, Yorkshire, to Lewis Court.
A note in the M R a week or so past, set him thinking that he might drop Court a line. They have settled in a bungalow on the outskirts of Ripon and are very comfortable.
He often thinks of Court's garden as he works in his own, which is quite large but perhaps not quite as large as Court's.
As regards The Recorder the only Bible Christian relics which German has, are two bound copies of The Bible Christian Magazine for 1849 and 1868. If either are of any use, Court is welcome to them.
German's wife joins in sending regards.
From Stuart Rees Strongman at `Braemar', 13 Oak Tree Avenue, Green Lane, Coventry, to Lewis Court.
He was grateful for the letter of the 11th inst. in acknowledgement of the old Bible Christian hymnbook, which Strongman sent to Court.
Enclosed is The Finger of God [by Samuel Pollard - a history of the Clovelly Bible Christian Society], which he is sure Court will find a place for in his collection of Bible Christian relics.
He was also grateful for Court's poem.
From Elizabeth Wilmot Blackwell [widow of James Henry Blackwell] at `Malaya', 42 Daybrook Road, Merton Park, London, to Lewis Court.
She was very interested to see the appeal in the M R of 24th March [for Bible Christian memorabilia]. She is sending these few things. She would very much like her husband to be honoured in the exhibition at City Road, London, as he spent so many years in the capital.
From Charles Stedeford at 13 Goldieslie Road, Birmingham, to Lewis Court.
He was very pleased to receive Court's letter, reminding him of one of the happiest experiences of his life, after which Court has frequently been in his mind. Spiritual matters are discussed and reference made to the Court Collection of Bible Christian memorabilia.
As for Stedeford, he felt that he was reaching the climax of his ministerial career, which inevitably cannot be far from reaching its end.
Reference is made to Stedeford being knocked over by a bus the day before the event referred to above. It only however had the effect of making him more grateful for `an experience in Xtian fellowship'.
He is still walking only with discomfort but is slowly returning to normal ways. He attended five communications this week and is to preach next Sunday morning.
As Court said, Stedeford derives much comfort from his son and daughter. They have never caused him any distress but rather considerable pleasure.
His youngest daughter Beryl is in the middle of preparations for marriage on January 6th [1950] to Campbell Ponting. He lives in the same road, attends the same Church, is the same age, and after marriage they will be living in the same house with Stedeford.
From [Frederick] Rosier Lee at `Aldersgate', Murray Road, Selsey, Sussex, to Lewis Court.
He understands that Court is preserving Bible Christian relics and is wondering if Court has a copy of the enclosed `Conference gathering'. It was given to Lee when he was stationed in the Hicks Mill Circuit in Cornwall and is unfortunately undated. It is certainly an `antique' by the look of the clerical dress and Lee recognises [?James] Thorne in the front row.
He is a member of a Bible Christian section of the Chichester Circuit and there are still a few people here at Sesley who remember names of Bible Christian ministers of half a century ago.
The building [chapel] here is looking beautiful after its renovation, and is being well maintained.
From Stuart Rees Strongman at `Braemar', 13 Oak Tree Avenue, Green Lane, Coventry, to Lewis Court.
[Frederick Leach] Buxton, to whom he showed the enclosed edition of Bible Christian hymns assures him that Court would be glad to have the volume for his collection.
He also has a fairly good copy of The Finger of God, which is a history of the Bible Christian Society at Clovelly in the Kilkhampton Circuit, written by Samuel Pollard and published in 1862. Court no doubt knows this little book very well and will probably have a copy in his collection. If he does not have a copy or if Strongman's copy can be of value, he would be pleased to contribute it.
Strongman is very interested in the project and wishes Court every success. He was interested to hear of the unveiling of the tablet at Lake Farmhouse [Shebbear]. During his time at Shebbear College, Strongman spent many happy hours in the farmhouse kitchen.
Of the `Bible Christian Fraternal' held at City Road in London.
From [Frederick Leach] Buxton at Memorial House, Cock Road, Kingswood, Bristol, to Lewis Court, re possible additions to Court's collection of Bible Christian memorabilia.
When Court has completed his preparations, it would be nice if all surviving Bible Christian ministers could get together at City Road in London for `a fraternal cup of tea and opening' [of the display of the collection].
From Victor Gollancz of The Jewish Society for Human Service, Committee for Relief in the Middle East, at 14 Henrietta Street, London, to [Lewis Court].
Court was one of those people who were generous enough to donate money for the relief of Arab refugees. The situation in Jerusalem has now worsened with thousands of refugees in a dreadful plight, and the Committee would be grateful if Court could contribute again.
From [Frederick Leach] Buxton at Memorial House, Cock Road, Kingswood, Bristol, to Lewis Court.
The enclosed bulletin [see 91.6.18] will be of undoubted interest to Court. It is being sent to all ex-Bible Christian ministers.
Buxton and John Ford Reed met with the Bristol City Librarian last week and proposed that a place of deposit could be found for Bible Christian books and manuscripts. He was very sympathetic but considered that such a collection would be of interest to only a small and decreasing group of people. He suggested that a distinctly Methodist library like London, City Road would be more appropriate.
Buxton and Reed both wish that they could find a place of deposit in the West of England. Shebbear would be ideal but it is so difficult to get to. They therefore came to the conclusion that London, City Road, would be the best place for this collection to be preserved.
Can Buxton and Reed be of help to Court? If Court approved and felt unable to conduct the necessary correspondence, Buxton would be willing to undertake that responsibility.
The list of memorabilia which Court sent is very interesting, and Reed has some other items which might be of value.
From Frederick Leach Buxton at the Methodist Church, Cock Road, Kingswood, near Bristol, to Lewis Court.
Buxton, Richard Pyke and John Ford Reed have consulted with Frank Cumbers of the Book Room concerning Court's collection of Bible Christian memorabilia and Cumbers is very keen to have the collection deposited at City Road in London. Cumbers already has one parcel of papers deposited by Court and he has similar items already at City Road.
It is recognised that Court has a great love for Greenbank Chapel in Plymouth, but it must be realised that given time and changes in personnel the collection would be regarded as `so much lumber'. Court's collection is of such historic value that it must be preserved and City Road would be the safest place.
The only additional literature possessed by Reed is a set of old Arminian Magazines published previous to the Bible Christian Magazine and a number of letters between William O'Bryan and James Thorne concerning the split between them.
Buxton is also hopeful that he could find the money to have the volumes bound. Reed and Pyke have promised to help him find a couple of wealthy laymen to help with this.
Buxton is very keen to assist Court in every way possible. The years are taking their toll and something must be done soon.
From Frederick Leach Buxton at the Methodist Church, Cock Road, Kingswood, near Bristol, to Lewis Court.
He was very grateful for Court's postcard of the 25th inst. Buxton thinks that he mentioned in his last letter that the only material of value which John Ford Reed possesses is a printed statement by James Thorne concerning the differences between himself and William O'Bryan, and a few odd volumes of the Arminian Magazine and the Bible Christian Magazine. As far as Buxton knows Reed does not have a copy of O'Bryan's bible, but he shall certainly ask him when next they meet.
He was very pleased to read that Court is agreeable to send his collection to City Road in London. Buxton shall be very pleased to hear from Court when he has completed his list, and sent the stuff on and any expenses to which he has been put. Buxton has a little spare cash for such expenditure.
He trusts that Court is in agreeable health considering the fact that he has passed his allotted span.
From Frederick Leach Buxton at the Methodist Church, Cock Road, Kingswood, near Bristol, to Lewis Court.
Since sending his last, he has received from [Charles] Stedeford's son, a gift of £25 to help towards the cost of binding and repairing the items of Bible Christian memorabilia. He presented the money because of his great love of the Bible Christian Church.
Would Court like to get someone local to carry out the repairs or would he prefer to liaise with [Frank] Cumbers.
From Frederick Leach Buxton at the Methodist Church, Cock Road, Kingswood, near Bristol, to ex-Bible Christian ministers.
Have they noticed how their number is dwindling? Since the union of 1907 over 150 of their former colleagues have died, leaving 72 of whom only 22 are still in the active ministry.
The fact that the 1948 Conference is being held in Bristol offers a wonderful opportunity for them to get together. Brothers Richard Pyke and John Ford Reed have welcomed this suggestion, and hope to be there.
The Knowle Church (ex-Bible Christian) have offered to provide them with tea on Friday 16th July at the expense of the Church.
If age or ill health prevent attendance, perhaps people would like to send a greeting.
From [Leonard Glyn] James at 20 Victoria Road, Hanham, Bristol to ex-United Methodist ministers.
One of the happy features of last year's Bristol Conference was the opportunity for people to meet again. The experience was so enjoyable that brethren expressed the wish that future events for ex-United Methodists could be arranged.
The meeting was emphatic in its determination not to foster distinctions within the Methodist Church, but merely to allow people to enjoy something of the old fellowship. Graduates of Richmond and Didsbury Colleges have their old colleges as a point of contact, but the closure of Victoria Park have made things more difficult for ex-United Methodists. It is true that some have a connection with Hartley Victoria College for which they are grateful, but even for those ministers the link is somewhat tenuous while many of their brethren have no link with Hartley Victoria. Them meeting was therefore unanimous in deciding to form a Ranmoor-Victoria Fellowship, membership of which would be open to all ex-United Methodist brethren regardless of any link with those two Colleges [Ranmoor and Victoria Park].
It was agreed that a good time for the Fellowship to meet, would be in conjunction with the Annuitant Society meeting during Conference.
On the back of the above is a manuscript poem by Lewis Court entitled `In Memorium PD', the first line of which is `True son of Somerset thy journey ends'.
From Frederick Leach Buxton at the `Memorial House', Cock Road, Kingswood, near Bristol, to Lewis Court.
They had a most delightful time at the re-union of ex-Bible Christian ministers, which was held at Knowle last Friday. There were thirty-three present and thirty letters of greeting were also received.
The brethren were very interested in Court's account of his Bible Christian collection. John Ford Reed also stated that he had a collection of great interest. The unanimous decision was that these collections should be preserved for the benefit of all those who wish to see them.
Alderman Humphries, who is a member of the Knowle congregation and was also at the meeting, made the suggestion that he could make arrangements for the collection to be preserved in the archives at Bristol City Library. The Alderman, John Ford Reed and Buxton were therefore authorised to make the best arrangements possible for the preservation of the collections.
Buxton would be grateful to receive Court's approval of the above arrangements.
Shebbear was also suggested but it was finally decided that it was too remote geographically. Bristol on the other hand is fairly central to all ex-Bible Christian ministers.
The brethren send their best wishes with the hope that Court's stay in Brighton will do him some good.
From Frederick Leach Buxton at the `Memorial House', Cock Road, Kingswood, near Bristol, to Lewis Court.
He is sorry that Court has been experiencing some difficulty in his preparations [for sending the collection]. [Frank] Cumbers second letter must have come as a relief.
Buxton has asked [Stuart Rees] Strongman to send direct to Court his pocket edition of the early edition of Bible Christian hymns and Buxton is sending his own copy by this post.
Cumbers has asked about Court's Romance of a Country Circuit. Has Court got a copy? If Court wishes, Buxton can send Cumbers his own copy.
If Buxton had known that Court wanted someone to visit City Road in London, he could have asked Mr H. E. Down, son of Revd. [Henry] Down to inspect the Bible Christian material. He lives in London and attended Buxton's home church at Percy Road in Kilburn which is now closed. Buxton still goes up fairly often and may be going soon. If he can save Court a journey, he would gladly do so.
What trouble is Court taking to prepare an index of all Bible Christian ministers named in the Connexional magazines. Is it necessary?.
In a postscript, he mentions Court's wish to show his collection before it goes to London. Buxton would gladly send invitations to all ex-Bible Christian ministers who live within a reasonable travelling distance. What is the maximum number that could be accommodated?.
From Frederick Leach Buxton at the `Memorial House', Cock Road, Kingswood, near Bristol, to Lewis Court.
He encloses a list of those ex-Bible Christian ministers and laymen who attended the re-union together with the names of those ministers who sent their apologies. The names and addresses of ministers' children are also enclosed.
From Frederick Leach Buxton at the `Memorial House', Cock Road, Kingswood, near Bristol, to Lewis Court.
Court must be relieved now that it is all over. His [Court's] work [on the Bible Christian collection] was very well done and everybody was very grateful that such a task has been carried out. Court's long and useful service for the Bible Christians has been crowned with a memorial, which will last for many years.
Enclosed is an account of Buxton's receipts and expenses with a cheque for £6 towards the remainder of Court's expenses. If more is needed and he presumes that such will be the case, Court should let Buxton know and he will write to Mr Stedeford [son of Charles Stedeford], who has promised more help if they need it. He has kept back £2.0.4, which he will need towards the expenses of a bulletin to be sent to all ex-Bible Christian ministers who were present. It should include a final financial statement, so he will wait until he learns what Court's final account will be.
The bulletin will also include a message from [Frank] Cumbers concerning arrangements for viewing the collection.
From Frederick Leach Buxton at the `Memorial House', Cock Road, Kingswood, near Bristol, to Lewis Court.
He does not mean to hurry Court in his arrangement of the material for its transfer to City Road London, but he would nevertheless be grateful for a progress report. He would be glad to send a cheque to cover any expenses.
When Court has completed his work, Buxton proposes sending a second bulletin to ex-Bible Christian ministers, giving full particulars.
He trusts that Court is keeping well and that the work is not too much. If Buxton lived closer, he would offer to help but perhaps it is a job that Court can do better by himself. If there is anything that Buxton can do, Court should not hesitate to ask.
From Frederick Leach Buxton at the `Memorial House', Cock Road, Kingswood, near Bristol, to Lewis Court.
Mr H. E. Down has informed Buxton of the safe arrival at City Road in London of the album of photographs presented to [Frederick William] Bourne. It is a massive album but there is no oak case as they were given to understand.
There were no other documents of any kind in the parcel from Edgehill College.
Now Buxton wishes to send out the final bulletin to all concerned, but before doing so, he would like to know whether anything else has been added to the collection.
He has received a circuit plan dated 1839 from the old St Neot Circuit. That can be included with the other circuit plans.
Has Court sent anything else - apart from those included in the list?.
Buxton shall include a full statement of accounts.
[Frank] Cumbers has given him particulars of when the collection can be viewed.
From Mrs F.A. Gerry at Rowden Farm, Tavistock, Devon to Lewis Court.
She was handed a letter by her mother-in-law which she received from Court, asking her to forward to Court a certain magazine which formerly belonged to Gerry's father Mr Symons of Liddaton. Just before he died five years ago, he gave the book to her. It is dated 1822 and has been in the possession of her family since 1823. The book was obviously very precious to her father and she does not therefore want to let it go. She hopes that Court understands her feelings on this matter.
From [Bryan Holwell] Reed at Westhill Training College, Selly Oak, Birmingham, to Frederick Leach Buxton at the `Memorial House', Cock Road, Kingswood, near Bristol.
He was very interested to receive Buxton's circular letter and can only wish that he was able to join Buxton at the Book Room on November 3rd. He doubts however whether he would be able to afford the time or the train fare.
Reed has some comments to make on the list of books which are to be presented on November 3rd. He was especially interested to read the assertion that in the set of [Bible Christian Conference] minutes from 1819 to 1907, there is a gap for 1824. This is in fact incorrect as Reed has in his possession a bound volume for 1819 to 1836, which belonged to his great grand-father [William Reed], and this includes the 1824 minutes. Is it possible that Reed's copy is the only one in existence which contains those minutes?.
Another thing which interested him was that included in the collection is a book called A Defence of the Bible Christian Movement by James Thorne, which was published in 1834. The list describes this book as very rare. Is this the same as James Thorne's Vindication of the acting members of the Finance Committee of the Bible Christians published in 1829, of which Reed has a copy? This was an answer on the part of the preachers to a number of charges made against them by William O'Bryan.
He notices that the list includes a biography of James Thorne by [Frederick William] Bourne. Again, he has a copy of this together with a much longer memoir of James Thorne by his son and published in 1875.
Three books which Reed owns and which do not appear in Buxton's list are; A Biography of Samuel Thomas Thorne by Thomas Ruddle (1893), A Memoir of William Reed by James Thorne (1869) and A Life of Grace Reed by James Thorne (1822).
Most of these books were originally the property of William Reed and were passed to his son William Bryan Reed and eventually to Reed himself.
He is unable to make up his mind whether he should preserve them in the family or present them to form part of Buxton's collection.
From Wesley Swift (editor of the Wesley Historical Society) at 9 Ladywood Road, Roundhay, Leeds, to Lewis Court at Quarry Close, Hill View Road, Minehead, Somerset.
He was grateful for the copy of the catalogue of the collection which Court deposited at City Road, London. Swift has asked [Frank] Cumbers to write a paragraph about the collection for inclusion in the next volume of the proceedings of the Wesley Historical Society.
He is also hoping that Court will be able to give him some information about the Bible Christian female itinerant preacher Catherine Harris. In the 1873 minutes of Conference, she is described as a supernumary but Swift does not have any minutes later than that. He wants to know her date of death and if she remained a supernumary until the end of her life. If Court could lend him a copy of the obituary from the Conference minutes, it would be of great help.
Swift has collected information about all the Bible Christian female itinerants and this is the last piece of information which he needs.
From [Bryan Howell] Reed at Westhill Training College, Selly Oak, Birmingham, to Lewis court at Quarry Close, Hill View Road, Minehead, Somerset.
He is enclosing a copy of a letter which he has sent to Frederick Buxton.
From Thomas Shaw at 61 Gerard Street, Rotherham, Yorkshire, to Lewis Court in Quarry Close, Hill View Road, Minehead, Somerset.
He was grateful for the letter. [Frank] Baker and [Wesley] Swift of the Wesley Historical Society believe there should be a continuation of the index of obituaries and local histories contained in the Methodist Magazine 1778-1839, which index was published in 1909. They also think Shaw might undertake the task, although it is as yet unclear whether they envisage that such an index should include all the various Connexional magazines.
From Henry Hancock at 40 Slades Road, St Austell, Cornwall, to Lewis Court.
He was very interested to read Court's letter in this week's Comish Guardian and has therefore enclosed a memoir of his great-grandmother who died in 1883. She and her husband were both Bible Christian local preachers and the society of which they were practically the founders, met in their cottage for about thirty years before a chapel was built.
He has also enclosed a copy a handbook issued in connection with a bazaar held on December 2nd 1926, which Court may find interesting.
Hancock himself has been a local preacher for over forty years and is currently serving as the secretary to the chapel trustees.
If Court does not want the memoir, he would be grateful if it could be returned as it is the only copy that he has.
Hancock is expecting to attend Conference as a Cornish delegate, and if Court is also intending to be present, would welcome the opportunity to meet for a chat.
From Roger Alford at `Windyridge', Tavistock, Devon, to Lewis Court.
He was grateful for Court's kind and interesting letter with the press cuttings, which he is returning.
They will certainly remember Court to Miss Grose, but Samuel Veale and his brother the minister William Veale passed on some years ago.
From [Francis] F. Bretherton (President and General Secretary of the Wesley Historical Society) at 10 West Lawn, Sunderland, to Lewis Court in [Minehead, Somerset].
He was greatly interested by the reference in the M R to Court's collection of Bible Christian memorabilia. Bretherton has no interesting items, but in his large collection of material relating to Methodist history and biography, there is a large Bible Christian section. It consists of well-known standard books together with some rare works. He has for example volume II of the Arminian Magazine as published by the Bible Christians and has endeavoured in vain to acquire a copy of volume I.
Could he possibly receive a copy of the list referred to in the M R?.
Bretherton would be grateful to receive any duplicates that Court may have, and in turn would be pleased to try to fill any gaps in Court's series of magazines.
Minehead summons up very pleasant memories of a stay there during the Plymouth Conference, and of vacations there during the time that Bretherton was at Taunton School between 1878 and 1884.
From [Francis] F. Bretherton (President and General Secretary of the Wesley Historical Society) at 10 West Lawn, Sunderland, to Lewis Court in Quarry Close, Hill View Road, Minehead, Somerset.
[Frank Granville] Stafford has told him that Court is interested in Bible Christian literature and Bretherton would therefore like to take advantage of Court's specialist knowledge.
Bretherton has been interested in Methodist literature for more than forty years but must confess that until very recently he had never heard of the existence of a magazine called the Arminian Magazine other than Wesley's publication. About a year ago he obtained Volume II of the magazine for the year 1823. He understands that there were seven or eight volumes bearing that title and would be very grateful if Court could suggest where he could obtain copies of them.
He would also like to further his knowledge of the Bible Christian Magazine, which commenced in 1829 and was he understands the successor to the Arminian Magazine. The only volumes that he has seen are the two that he possesses, namely the issues for 1875 and 1876. Did it continue until the union of 1907?.
From Edgar C. Barton at the Methodist Publishing House, City Road, London, to Lewis Court in Quarry Close, Hill View Road, Minehead, Somerset.
He is very grateful for Court's gift of Bible Christian portraits and letters. They will be a valuable addition to the Book Room collections.
HFrom Edgar C. Barton at the Methodist Publishing House, City Road, London, to Lewis Court in Quarry Close, Hill View Road, Minehead, Somerset.
e is very grateful for Court's gift of the two old books from the Kent Bible Christian Mission.
From Frank Cumbers at the Methodist Publishing House, City Road, London, to Lewis Court in Quarry Close, Hill View Road, Minehead, Somerset.
He was grateful for Court's letter of 5th April. The proper codification of the Publishing House collection of Wesleyana is a very important priority. He is however sorry to say that the collection is not in the state where Cumbers can provide a plain answer.
The only definitely Bible Christian material which he can say with certainty is in the collection is a parcel labelled "Bible Christian Wesleyana per Rev. Lewis Court". Also, Cumbers in unsure if Court wishes to know about the other component parts of the old United Methodist Church. He would like clarification on that point.
He finds that there is also here a complete range of the Bible Christian Magazine, together with other relevant publications such as the U M Magazine.
Cumbers finds that Court's Romance of a Country Circuit is unavailable at present. He has therefore advertised for a copy.
From Wesley Swift (Editor of the Wesley Historical Society) at `Brantwood', 37 Alexandria Road, Sale, Manchester, to Lewis Court in Quarry Close, Hill View Road, Minehead, Somerset.
He read with great interest the paragraph in the M R about Court's collection of Bible Christian memorabilia. He wishes that he had known of the existence of the collection earlier.
Swift has worked his way through the early Bible Christian minutes and found them to be very interesting. His immediate purpose was to glean information about female itinerants for writing an article. He would therefore like to ask Court one or two questions.
1. Has Court anything apart from the minutes of Conference which sheds light on the early female itinerants, especially portraits and letters? The former would serve wonderfully as illustrations for the article.
2. Are there any letters etc which would be suitable for publication in the Proceedings of the Wesley Historical Society? They are always on the lookout for new material, especially with relation to the non-Wesleyan Churches. Some people think that the Society is concerned only with Wesleyan history, but this is not the case. The problem is made more acute because so few articles about the non-Wesleyan branches of Methodism are submitted.
3. Could Court let him have a list of the items in his collection?.
4. Has Court any duplicates which he could lodge with the WHS?.
From Frank Cumbers at the Methodist Publishing House, City Road, London, to Lewis Court in Quarry Close, Hill View Road, Minehead, Somerset.
He was grateful to receive Court's letter of May 6. He has investigated the collections in the `House' [Epworth House, home of Epworth Press, City Road, London] and has discovered that they do not have any of the following Bible Christian items.
Magazines 1832-1907.
Missionary Reports 1823-1907.
Conference minutes 1819-1907.
The archivist tells him that he would welcome the old class tickets, pamphlets and portraits. Cumbers himself would particularly welcome deposit of the letters of the Bible Christian founders. The archivist is especially excited at the prospect of receiving the letter by John Wesley with annotations by Adam Clarke.
Court may rest assured that the early records of the Bible Christian Church will have an honoured place here, so that the work of the Church will not be forgotten.
From Wesley Swift (editor of the Wesley Historical Society) at 9 Ladywood Road, Roundhay, Leeds, to Lewis Court at Quarry Close, Hill View Road, Minehead, Somerset.
He was grateful for Court's letter of 21 October with reference to the Bible Christian Conference minutes.
He is sending by registered post all the volumes that he borrowed from Mr Quick, namely one bound volume, ten paper covered copies and four stiff covered copies. Swift is still working on them despite the fact that he had them for two and a half years. He would be very glad to have them returned to him when Court has finished with them.
Swift hopes that Court will have a very good time at City Road in London next week. It is very good of Court to present his collection and he looks forward to receiving a copy of the index in due course. They shall then be able to publicise the collections's availability to the public through the WHS proceedings.
Can Court tell Swift anything about the early female itinerant Catherine Harris? In the Conference minutes of 1873 she is recorded as being a supernumary at Bodmin in Cornwall, but his sources drive up after that date. He would like to know when she died and if she remained a supernumary until her death.
From Mrs E.M. Jackson at 22 Le Geyt Street, St Helier, Jersey, Channel Isles, to Lewis Court, re her uncle James Hinks and her own reminiscences of the Church.
From William Sanigan at 205 Avon Vale Road, Barton Hill, Bristol, to Lewis Court at Quarry Close, Hill View Road, Minehead, Somerset, re Sanigan's enquiry concerning the Bible Christian minister James Hinks.
From [Bryan Holwell] Reed at Westhill Training College, Selly Oak, Birmingham, to Lewis Court at Quarry Close, Hill View Road, Minehead, Somerset.The volume of [Bible Christian Conference] minutes in his possession does include 1822. The Conference met at Stoke Damerel from Thursday 22 August to Wednesday 28 August. The minutes for that year are contained on just twelve pages. Could it be that this is the only copy in existence?.
Of the life of Stephen Gee, who died in London on July 4th 1947 aged eighty-two.
From Stephen John Gee at the Harbour Light Methodist Church, Goldsmiths Row, London, to Lewis Court.
He is grateful for the two books which Court sent on the 8th inst.
If Gee sees a copy of Court's Romance of a Country Circuit he shall certainly buy it. This morning Brother Button informed him that both of Richard Pyke's books have been sold. Gee had ordered them from Button, so there must still be a demand for Bible Christian literature. The books were Pyke's The Golden Chain and Men and Memories. Gee already has his Points for Protestants but not his larger work on Protestantism.
Gee feels certain that union between the Free Methodists and the Bible Christians could have been accomplished almost any time before 1907 and that the Bible Christians would have `cordially if not enthusiastically accepted our 100% Democratic polity'.
The Free Methodists also were involved in overseas missions from an early date. Jamaica and West Africa were areas of activity because independent Methodist Societies there liked Free Methodist democracy. Later, Free Methodism was introduced to Australia, Tasmania and New Zealand.
With regard to Ernest Bevin, Gee notes that as a young man he was living with a married sister Mary Pope at Copplestone. Mary's husband George was a Railwayman and page 28 of "Bevin" refers to them moving to Bishop Morchard and later to Copplestone. The Popes were devout United Methodists. Ernest went to the sunday school there.
From Stephen John Gee at 99 Lexham Gardens, London, to Lewis Court.
The sentiments which Court expressed on page 143 of Dartmoor Saints about Bible Christian feelings at the time of union in 1907 were identical with what was felt by the United Methodist Free Church, for although they were the largest church involved in the union negotiations, they were still a happy family where everyone was known to everyone else, especially in Lancashire, London and Yorkshire. They had very early on put down roots in Cornwall - T. Pope Rosevear was a `lay giant' in the Camelford and Wadebridge Circuit.
Very early in the history of the Wesleyan reform movement, Robert Eckett and Dr [Samuel] Warren had toured the west country and had encountered support for reform.
Does Court know Revd. Reginald Frost of Okehampton Congregational? He is one of the sons of Henry Frost, former Superintendent of Harbour Light Methodist Church in Goldsmiths Row, London, and Rosa Frost the first Deaconess of Harbour Light. Their other two sons are in the Methodist ministry.
Gee owes a great deal to Bible Christians who he met after union in 1907. [Edward John] Welsher had Gee preaching in his Sevenoaks Circuit in Kent [1907], while [Philip Henry] Bryant had Gee in his Luton Road Chapel in Chatham for a weekend [1912]. Gee was Junior District Missionary Secretary at the time and he certainly received a great many speaking appointments around London.
After union, Jubilee Chapel in East Road came into the London 1st District and Gee met and worked there with [Richard Thomas] Buttle [1899-1908] and later John page [1908-9].
Earlsmead, which is now Tottenham Central Hall was only an old school chapel until Cooper Graystone Hawken supervised the erection of a chapel at a cost of £5,000 [1905-09] `with as big a debt all in faith - how like you BC's'. Gee's father [Stephen] and Mr Mallinson came to the rescue with a grant from their London Chapel Extension Fund. [William Samuel] Welsh later took charge there [1912-18].
Hawken worked Gee junior as hard as he could in furtherance of missionary work. He nominated Gee for the Conference and the Conference Overseas Committee and Gee was successfully elected - he feels sure that the Conference thought that it was in fact voting for Gee's father who was very well known. Hawken insisted on Gee serving and it was certainly a unique experience for a young man of twenty-three.
Several members of Gee's family are active now in the Walthamstow Circuit.
His sister is the wife of the retired minister Joe Boden, who served most of his ministry at Ilford Lane Free Methodist Church.
Gee himself served in the Young Men's Christian Association during World War 1 and later secured a `political agency' at Cromer in Norfolk with Lord Noel-Buxton.
From Stephen John Gee at the Harbour Light Methodist Church, Goldsmiths Row, London, to Lewis Court at Quarry Close, Hill View Road, Minehead, Somerset.
He was interested to read [Frederick Leach] Buxton's letter in this morning's M R and of Court's researches into Bible Christian history. He would be grateful if Court could send him a copy of the list referred to.
Perhaps Court will remember Gee - he used to stay at the Gee family home in Hackney, London, and he can still recall the charming pencil sketch which Court presented them with.
Gee has been trying to collect material concerning the Free Methodist Church for some years, especially the period when they were the Wesleyan Reform Association. He has been quite fortunate up to a point as he has had two very rare documents lent to him.
Has Court any books to lend or sell?.
Of printed books concerning the history of the United Methodist Free Churches 1829-1907. Copies of the books are wanted by Stephen John Gee of 99 Lexham Gardens, London.
From Thomas Heard at `Mulpha', Stratton, Cornwall, to Lewis Court.
In this week's M R he sees that Court is writing a history of the Bible Christians. He is sending one or two items which might be of interest.
Bush is an hamlet about one mile from Stratton on the Bideford road. The chapel was built in 1869 on land given by Samuel Knight senior of Towskill? Mill. There are still some people here who remember its opening and what a wonderful day they had. Previous to the chapel's erection, services were held in a `Cob?' cottage. Edward Knight was baptized in the cottage and Mary Convesson? interred there. Tommy Evans was among those who led worship in the cottage.
In the early days of the present chapel an old fisherman called Richard Headdon walked from Clovelly to Bush where he preached and then walked home again - a distance of eighteen miles each way.
Bush is still `full with fire, Sunday School fairly full every Sunday…'.
Heard and his late wife worshipped there for fifty-five years. She died last month at the age of eighty-seven - he is eighty three. They had a wonderful life together.
When is Court coming this way again? He hears that Court is planning to write about the battle of Stamford Hill. If this is the case, he would be pleased to lend him material from his collection of material about the history of Stratton.
Enclosed with the above is a detailed manuscript account of the history of the Bible Christian Connexion in the area of Bush near Stratton, Cornwall.
From Sir [Henry Stanley] Gregory at the Board of Trade, Millbank, London, to Lewis Court.
The only `professional' photograph that he has of his father is a rather faded one taken for M. Bownes? album in about 1899/1900. He is trying to get it copied and will certainly let Court have a print.
It was a great pleasure to be at City Road last week [for the Bible Christian re-union] although the unexpected request for him to give a speech left him rather lost for words. The fact is, the Bible Christians were a large family where everybody knew everybody else. The Quarterly and District meetings and the Conferences were points of contact as were missionary deputations. It was in that family that they grew up.
Gregory is not a reactionary but there are old values which have eternal worth and last week they were celebrating not commemorating them.
The word `relics' which was applied to Court's collection did not seem appropriate, although he cannot think of a better word. [Richard] Pyke has already appropriated the best term that he can think of - `The Golden Chain'. All of those people mentioned in Court's collection are links in that chain, as indeed are those who are left.
From Gladys Morris at `Tolgarne', 63 Bacton Road, North Walsham, Nofolk, to Lewis Court. Enclosed is a copy of the early history of Tretoil chapel [near Lostwithiel, Cornwall].
Alas, only yesterday they received a letter warning of a lack of workers needed to keep the chapel going. This makes it more important to record the history of the chapel while there is still time.
She expects that since the circuits were combined, any documentation would have gone into the charge of the ex-Wesleyan Superintendent. The minister who is responsible for Tretoil now lives in Lostwithiel and his name she thinks is Garth Minnear. She doubts if he is old enough to remember the old Bible Christian chapel.
Has Court tried to get anything from the extreme west? There is a young minister called Sydney Quick who is stationed in the Penzance area. The last time that she saw him he was standing outside the Lanivet Chapel, rejoicing to see the words "Bible Christian" still carved above the door.
If Court sees Mr Yates he should tell him that Morris's mother sends her best wishes. She staying with Morris after spending some time with her brother.
From Miss R. C. W. Jones at `The Grove', Pyworthy, Hoslworthy, Devon, to Lewis Court.
She saw in the M R that Court is collecting Bible Christian material and she is therefore sending two old circuit plans. If they are of no use, she would like them returning.
From Mrs [Ethel Jane Frances] Cade at `Penwith', Crewe Road, Crewe, Cheshire to Lewis Court.
Seeing the piece in the M R about Court's collection of Bible Christian records, brought back memories of when he was the minister at St Thomas's Church Swansea [1895-98]. Court will probably not remember her as she was only very young at the time. Her maiden name was Bawden and she was living at the time with her aunt Mrs Williams at `Penwith', Cromwell Road, Swansea.
Has Court got a copy of the Bible Christian Magazine for 1836, being a continuation of the Armenian Magazine? She has copies of Volumes 1 and 10 of the third series for 1845.
From Mrs [Ethel Jane Frances] Cade at `Penwith', Crewe Road, Crewe, Cheshire to Lewis Court.
Her last two letters have been written by her husband as she suffers very badly from arthritis. Today however, she felt that she would do the writing.
She is very pleased to know that the two books will be of interest and she knows that her dear old grandparents would have been overjoyed.
She came originally from St Just in Penwith, Cornwall, and moved to Swansea when she was about eleven years old. Her mother died a short time later - her father had died when Cade was a baby. She went therefore to live with her aunt Mrs Williams and while she was in Swansea attended Oxford Street Chapel. She remembers Court having an accident on Guy Fawkes Day [November 5th] and after that whenever Cade's cousins wanted fireworks, they were warned "Remember what happened to Mr Court". Then at school one day, she was told by one of her friends that Court could do `fancy work' [drawing] and thought that very clever.
She supposes that there are few people in the Swansea Circuit who Court would now remember - Mrs W. Taylor (Bakers of Kensington Terrace) is still going strong at an age of well over ninety, and Mrs G. W. Sing is still active. Cade has not been able to get about much for about twenty years and so has not been back to Swansea, but keeps in touch through her cousin. She was very sorry when she heard of the passing of Mrs Bryant.
Her father's family came originally from Redruth in Cornwall, where the Bawdens [Cade's maiden name] were members of Wesley Chapel. She still has quite a few relations around Redruth.
She remembers at home that they always looked out for articles by Court in the Connexional magazine and particularly enjoyed reading Romance of a Country Circuit. Her husband is a Methodist of the old United Methodist Free Church. They met while she was on a visit to Revd. [Silas George] Jenkins.
From [Ethel Jane] Frances Cade at `Penwith', Crewe Road, Crewe, Cheshire, to Lewis Court.
She was very grateful for the loan of the two books, which she enjoyed immensely.
She hopes to go away for a few days and she thought that she would like to return the books before going.
From Alice Walling at the Mall, Swindon, Wiltshire, to Lewis Court.
With reference to Court's appeal for Bible Christian memorabilia, Walling's mother Mrs A. G. Hawken (widow of Mr W. R. Hawken and daughter-in-law of the late Revd. William Hawken) has asked her to write and ask if Court would like cabinet size photographs of the missionaries Samuel Pollard and his wife [Emmie], which were taken in China. They were given by Pollard to Walling's father. She looks forward to seeing this collection in Bristol, which will she is sure revive very happy memories.
From Mrs Ethel Jewel at Marsh Bank, Holsworthy, Devon, to Lewis Court.
She was very interested in the letter which appeared in the M R of 24th March regarding Court's collection of Bible Christian manuscripts. She has a number of items including the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th volumes of the Bible Christian magazines, giving William O'Bryan's account of the rise of the Connexion. It would be a joy for her to discover if the 1st volume was still extant as all her enquiries trying to trace it have so far proved fruitless.
She will send Court a list of what she has, and she would very much like a copy of Court's list in due course.
Jewel has always had a most affectionate regard for the old Bible Christian Connexion. There is no particular reason for it, except that her grandfather owned the copy of the old magazine (volumes 2 and 3 bound together) and in early childhood she can remember him reading from it. In later years she was given the book, and it became the first item in a collection which she amassed over the years. It is difficult to explain as all her family roots were in the Wesleyan Methodist Connexion, and it was left to her own children's time before a link with the Bible Christians was forged - her second daughter married a grandson of [William Blake] Lark.
The second volume mentioned above, belonged originally to [Thomas Charles] Jacob, with whom she had a very interesting correspondence in the last years of his life. She had sent enquiries through various Devon and Cornwall newspapers for any books or papers belonging to the old Bible Christian Connexion. Jacob replied, and after his death his widow sent her some items which he had owned relating to the Connexion.
Jewel has a number of copies of the magazine both bound and unbound. Jacob had previously sent her the second volume. She was always very interested in the fact that William O'Bryan had copied the frontispiece of the old Wesleyan Methodist Magazine for his own publication and also included various items from the Wesleyan Methodist Magazine.
Also enclosed is a list of Bible Christian books and other publications in the possession of Ethel Jewel.
From Mrs Ethel Jewel at Marsh Bank, Holsworthy, Devon, to Lewis Court.
She considered it a great pleasure to meet Court on Thursday last and was only sorry that they did not have more time available to discuss Bible Christian memorabilia. It must have been a day filled with wonderful memories for those present at the meeting, who had any connection with the Bible Christians.
Since returning home she has made lists of the books and pamphlets etc in her possession and has sent them to Court.
Jewel thinks that she told Court that she has two pamphlets by Samuel Ollin?, one was printed by Samuel Thorne in Plymouth in 1871 and the other by W.J. Trythall? printer of Plymouth, but with no date.
At present she is especially interested in the Bible Christian hymnbook. She has the 1890 edition but wishes to see the 1830 and 1868 editions also, with regard to a hymn beginning "Haste again ye days of Grace…" Can Court tell her if the hymn is also in the 1830 and 1868 editions and if there is any clue as to the authorship? The hymn is not in the 1890 edition.
She is on the track of more magazines and other literature. Does Court want Johanna Brooks's copy of [unreadable title]?.
She went with her husband to the service at Shebbear this morning. Mr Procter looks very frail, as if he has little left except `spirit and flame' but this makes his words seem more effective. The peaceful surroundings and the beauty of the scene added to the experience.
They took a Scottish friend with them, the widow of a Baptist minister, and the sound of Mr Procter rolling his Rs was like music to her ears. After the service Mr Fors, one of the masters at Shebbear, to whom she is well known, took her up to speak to Mr Proctor.
Would Court remember her to the lady who lives with him? Jewel did not catch her name.
In a postscript, Jewel mentions that Johanna Brooks married a second time to a man named Neal or Neale. They had a son named Moss Neal, who emigrated to the United States and at one Ecumenical Conference which was attended by Revd. Thomas Lee as a delegate from the Bible Christian Connexion, he was contacted by this Moss Neal.
'Special Bulletin to all Ex-Bible Christian Ministers', sent with greetings from the re-union held at the City Road Book Room in London.
Of the papers contained in Lewis Court's collection of Bible Christian memorabilia.
From [Charles William] Bendle at `The Glen', Highbridge, Somerset, to [Frederick Leach] Buxton, thanking him for his communications relating to the Bible Christian Church and the invitation to attend the re-union on Thursday 3rd November.
It was a pleasure to meet the brethren at last year's re-union at Knowle Chapel Bristol and he regrets that he cannot be with them this year.
He hopes that all those present will find much joy in their fellowship.
Bendle finds that there are many people in this area and in Bridgewater where he preached every Sunday, who were members of the Bible Christian Church or who attended its Sunday School.
From R. W. Freen at 28 Long Oaks Avenue, Swansea, to [Frederick Leach Buxton], thanking him for his secretarial work relating to ex-Bible Christian historical matters.
Lewis Court with his historical interests was exactly the right person to collect information about the Bible Christian Connexion. All former members of the Church are under an obligation to him.
He regrets that he is unable to attend the re-union at City Road in London on 3rd November. It is good that "Father" Charles Stedeford will be able to preside.
From [John] Howen Rodda at the Manse, Tower Hill, Williton, Somerset, to [Frederick Leach Buxton]. He had been hoping that he would be able to attend the re-union at City Road in London next week, but discovers that it is quite impossible. He would be grateful if Buxton could pass on to the brethren his best wishes and sincere regrets.
He rejoiced in Methodist union but is nevertheless grateful that he was born a Bible Christian. As a family they owe everything to the fact that his parents were living in West Cornwall and were brought to a knowledge of Jesus through the Bible Christians.
Rodda was a Bible Christian minister for ten years, a United Methodist for twenty-five and a Methodist for eighteen. For this ministry of fifty-three years he is thankful.
From Joseph Higman at 61 Carlton Road, Sale, Manchester, to [Frederick Leach Buxton].
He was grateful for the invitation to the re-union at [City Road in London] on November 3rd. He is afraid that he is unable to attend, but he is pleased that the [Lewis Court] Bible Christian collection will be in safe keeping and available to any who are interested in the subject.
The chapel in the Bodmin Circuit which has William O'Bryan's bible is Innis not Ennis as was originally stated.
From [Albert Richard] Balman at Lostwithiel, Cornwall, to [Frederick Leach Buxton], enclosing a gift towards the expenses of the re-union of ex-Bible Christians to be held on 3rd November.
He has very happy memories of the old times, for he spent much of his ministry in the south-west and he is therefore familiar with many Bible Christian shrines such as Shebbear, Holsworthy and further west in `Billy Bray country'.
He has an immense personal debt to Thomas Braund, whose friendship he so richly enjoyed when serving in Holsworthy.
From Harry Robson at `Overdale', Park Lane, Loughborough, Leicestershire, to Frederick Leach Buxton.
He is very disappointed that he will be unable to participate in the re- union tomorrow. He was taken ill on Saturday and has been in bed ever since.
Robson would like to pay his own tribute to the Bible Christians on behalf of North countrymen who entered its ministry. In 1902 there were three ministerial candidates from the North of England, namely Robson himself, Edward Rowan and John [Arthur] Smith. They were preceded at Shebbear College by Richard James (now in retirement in Millom) in 1900, and by a few others such as [Joseph Alfred] Dobson, [Isaac] Leaver and ?? Chapman.
Robson was astonished when he was sent to the Hatherleigh Circuit before a term at Shebbear to witness the simple piety of the Devon people. He had never met with anything like it in the North of England and it was plain that he had not been aware of the true nature of the Bible Christian Connexion before coming to the South-west. He is immensely indebted in the spiritual sense to the Bible Christians and particularly to his ministerial colleagues.
He shall be with them in spirit and look forward to reading a good account of the meeting in the M R.
From Henry S. Bodey at 8 Bonfield Road, Lewisham, London, to Frederick Leach Buxton at Kingswood near Bristol.
He was most pleased to read Buxton's letter in the M R of 20th October. Bodey was a scholar at Gladstone Street Sunday School in 1876 when [Charles] Stedeford was the librarian. Bodey was also in the Providence Chapel choir in Exeter when Stedeford was minister there [1888-91] and similarly during Lewis Court's time at the chapel [1898-1902]. Bodey went several times to Crediton with the choir to help with the singing. He has now been in London for nearly forty years and is still `doing his bit' as an executor of the Central Hall in South-East London. He was also for some time at the Mint Chapel in Exeter.
He has mentioned the above to indicate how pleased he was to read Buxton's letter. His wife joins in sending her best wishes for the re-union and they would both be pleased to join the company for tea.
Their daughter is a professional singer and tonight and tomorrow is entertaining the President of Conference Revd. H. B. Rattenbury at meetings in Newcastle.
From [Richard Henry] Osborne at 31 Calton Road, Gloucester, to [Frederick Leach] Buxton in Bristol.
Thanking him for the invitation to attend the re-union of ex-Bible Christians on 3rd November. He is unfortunately prevented from attending by age and poor health.
In the course of a long ministry, Osborne found that there was a camaraderie in the Bible Christian Church which he has not discovered elsewhere.
He shall be thinking of them all on that day. It is very fitting that Charles Stedeford should preside.
From Herbert Pollard at 167 West Coker Road, near Yeovil, Somerset, to [Frederick Leach] Buxton.
Thanking him for the invitation to the re-union of ex-Bible Christians on 3rd November. He would be overjoyed to be able to attend but `the way is not clear'.
Here in Yeovil he finds that `there is a goodly heritage'. Within a radius of three miles there are nine Methodist societies where he preaches regularly. One of them is a village outpost of the old ex-Bible Christian Crewkerne Circuit. Whenever he visits there he is reminded of such ministers as [William John] Sneeth and [James] Bendle and feels thankful that for the first thirty years of his life he was inspired by the Bible Christians. He feels that it is largely due to them that his concept of Christianity is `warmhearted, evangelistic and world-loving'.
Containing news cuttings re the Bible Christian mission to China with particular regard to the contribution made by Samuel Pollard.
Entitled Centenary Exhibition. The notebook contains a list of some of the exhibits displayed at the Centenary exhibition of Bible Christian memorabilia displayed at the Conference of the United Methodist Church at Providence Chapel in Exeter, Devon, together with a list of signatures of people who had visited the exhibition.
From [Edward Charles Bartlett] at Shebbear Bible Christian College, to his parents.
They have to write a letter home today which will be examined by the teacher before it is posted, so it will not therefore be very long. He is pleased to be able to say that he is very well and waiting for better weather so that he can play cricket more often.
He supposes that they have had a cold spring also. Everything looks barren and yet they are within a month of the mid-summer holidays, which he thinks will commence on Wednesday 18th June.
From Ernest [John] Bowden at 617 S. Crouse Avenue, Syracuse 10, New York, United States, to Lewis Court.
He has just received a news clipping from his sister in Lifton in Devon. It was Court's appeal for anecdotes about [Edward Charles] `Charley' Bartlett.
Bartlett was `one of the joys of my youth'. He came to Tavistock in Bowden's sixteenth year [1892] and immediately took him under his wing.
Every Friday after the class meeting he would take Bowden to his study and keep him there until 10 o'clock. His comradeship was for Bowden `a big window into a new world'. Bartlett gave him his first lesson in Theology and under his supervision he worked through the first pages in Binney's Compend.
He assumes that Court has been told the story of Bartlett's courtship. It was love at first sight - from the pulpit in a series of revival services.
Bowden often remembers his association with Court in Forest of Dean and South Wales [1896-98]. Court's friendship was a bright spot in those two terrible years. The doctors insisted at first that there was nothing wrong with his health, but then when he had an x-ray they detected an hole in his right lung which the stethoscope had never detected.
For the sake of his health, Bowden went to Canada and spent two years in the wilds and made a fairly complete recovery. Eventually he was able to return to his books and for the past twenty years he has been a writer for their morning paper, covering religious, scientific and educational themes. He encloses a clipping with one of the `many bits of recognition that come my way'. Tonight he is taking part in a radio programme, presenting the British view on the Palestinian question.
A great deal has happened since they walked the twelve miles to Woolaston and back on Court's missionary deputation. Bowden was delighted two years ago to visit the church which Court designed at Lidford in Devon.
Notes by [Lewis Court] concerning Edward Charles Bartlett, entitled A Son of Somerset.
Entitled Notes by the Way by [Cephas] Barker - Papers and Addresses in Memorium, published and sold H. J. Nott of Bowmanville, Ontario, Canada.
Of James Way.
Of Samuel Jory.
of John Rawlings.
Of James Hopper.
Of [William] Higman.
Of [Richard Prestridge] Tabb.
Inscribed on the back `To my very kind friends Mr & Mrs Jordan. R.P.T 1864'.
Of Thomas Braund, probably taken in his presidential year.
Of William Miller and his wife, taken outside 25 Cobden Road Derby and John [Club].
Of [William] Gilbert, probably depicted during his presidential year.
Of Joseph Grosvenor Brewster Corin, with his wife, daughter and son [dressed in army uniform].
Of [James Henry] Shilson, probably taken during his time as a minister in Brighton.
Of [George?] Turner.
Of an unidentified minister.
Of Miss Callard of Providence Chapel, Exeter.
Of [Samuel Brown] Lane, probably taken in his presidential year.
Of [John Osborne] Keen, taken during the time that he was a minister on Jersey in the Channel Isles.
Of [Albert James] Conibear and his wife, taken during the time that he was a minister in Blackburn, Lancashire.
Of Dr [Lewis] Savin and his wife [Kate, the former Miss Howe] and child.
Containing biographical details concerning [Stuart Rees] Strongman, and including three portrait photographs dated 1920, 1930 and 1940.
Of James Coles, probably taken during his time as minister at South Molton in Devon.
Possibly of [John] Sutton.
Of [John] Gammon.
Of [Charles] Stedeford, probably taken during his time as the minister at Ilfracombe in Devon.
Of [Isaac] Leaver, probably taken during his time as the minister at Swansea.
Of [George Edward] Ash, probably taken during his time as the minister at Tavistock.
Of [John] Botheras.
Of [John] Orchard.
Of John Thomas.
f [John] Johns, probably taken during his time as the minister in Redruth.
Of Arunder Ralph, probably taken during his time as the minister in Exeter.
Of Alexander Trengove.
Of William Ready.
Of the following United Methodist Church ministers who were superannuated at the Conference of 1910:.
Of the following United Methodist Church ministers who were superannuated at the Conference of 1909:.
Of [Jacob Hunt] Prior, depicted during his presidential year.
Of James Way, depicted during his presidential year.
Of the following United Methodist Church ministers who were superannuated at the Conference of 1906:.
Of [James] Barnden.
Of Mrs Fernley Wallis of Greenbank Chape, Plymouth.
Of Mrs Ross of Greenbank Chapel, Plymouth.
Of Mrs. Bullen of the Isle of Wight.
Of [Samuel] Keen.
Of George Batt.
Of John Herridge Batt, depicted during his Presidential year.
Of Thomas Perry Oliver, depicted during his Presidential year.
Of Spillett.
Of William Joliffe, President of the Canadian Conference.
Of Mr Coe of Bristol Road Church, Brighton, Sussex.
Of John Penhale.
Of Mrs Doise? of Launceston, Cornwall.
Of George Griffin of Pett, Sussex.
Of Captain Allin of Tavistock, Devon, friend of Billy Bray.
Of Colin Stapleton of Green Bank Chapel, Plymouth.
Of Fernley Wallis of Greenbank Chapel, Plymouth.
Of Daniel Sturgess, taken during his time as minister at St Just in Cornwall.
Of Miss Parsons of Launceston, Cornwall.
Of Richard Davy, his wife and two daughters of Greenbank Chapel, Plymouth.
Of "Grandfather Park" of Crediton, Devon.
Of the following Bible Christian missionaries working in Yunnan Province in China:.
Of [William Blake] Lark, taken during his time as a minister on Jersey in the Channel Isles.
Of [Thomas Grills] Vanstone, dressed in Chinese costume.
Of[Francis John] Dymond and Samuel Pollard.
Of Dr [John Osborne] Keen and his wife, probably taken during Osborne's time as a minister on Jersey, Channel Isles.
Of the following ministers of a Missionary Deputation:.
Of James Horwill, probably taken during his time as a supernumary in Bideford, Devon.
Of the following Bible Christian ministers, delegates at the Bristol Conference of 1869:.
Of [Albert James] Conibear, taken during his time as a minister in Swansea.
Of Joseph Hancock aged seventy-one.
Of John Hume of Adelaide, Australia.
Of [John Cleverdon] Honey.
Of Archibald Martin.
Of Thomas Edmund Keen aged eighty.
Of [Philip William] Madge.
Of John Maynard.
Of William Ready while serving as a local preacher in the Chagford Circuit.
Of [Herbert Charles] Putt and his wife, taken while serving as a minister in Exeter.
Of [Philip Henry] Bryant.
Of delegates to the United Methodist Conference.
Of John Thomas Henwood and his wife, taken during his retirement at "Melrose", Sticklepath, Barnstaple, Devon.
Of [Edwin Elijah] Gudridge, taken during his retirement in Plymouth.
Of [Alexander] Trengove, taken during his time as a minister in Devonport.
Of Harry and Mrs Parsons and their three children, taken during furlough in England.
Of [James] Horwill, taken during his time as a minister in Swansea.
Of [George] Netherway, taken during his time as a minister on the Isle of Wight.
Of [James] Woolcock of the Chulmleigh Circuit, Devon.
Of [Francis] Martin.
Of [James] Ching, taken during his time as a minister in Brighton, Sussex.
Of [Harold Edmund] and Mrs Reed.
Of Jehu Martin, probably taken during his time as a minister in Brighton, Sussex.
Of cuttings from the Western Daily Mercury of Plymouth concerning Bible Christians, written mainly by Lewis Court.
Containing a series of copy letters by James Bartlett to his wife Elizabeth.
Containing extracts taken from the following:.
Containing messages of goodwill from many Connexional figures to the musician Dr Bartlett on the eve of a musical tour of the United States.
Of manuscript material in the Lewis Court Collection.
Listing the preaching appointments of Harry Major to raise money for the 'Missionary Cause'. Major's itinerary was confined to Cornwall and he was to be accompanied by either Catherine or William O'Bryan.
On the reverse of the Broadsheet is a letter from William O'Bryan at Millpleasant near Plymouth, to [his sixteen year old daughter] Mary O'Bryan, care of Joseph Mitchell, White-smith of Mile Street, Peter Port, Guernsey, Channel Isles. O'Bryan wrote last week but has yet to receive a reply from Mary. He is wondering if he wrote to the island of Jersey by mistake especially as he wrote at the same time to [Mary Ann] Werry. If Mary has not yet received the letter, it is likely to be in the post office in Jersey. She should enquire there as soon as she can. He wrote that Werry wished to go to Scotland, that she could get a free passage and that Mary might take her place.
Captain Ledstone has been detained here, as one of the passengers was found to have smuggled foodstuffs on board. Peter has been here and has promised to let them know when the vessel is to sail. They have received no further news. O'Bryan trusts that Mary will reply to this letter immediately.
Mary can see from the broadsheet on which this letter is written that her mother [Catherine] intends to visit the west of Cornwall next week with Harry Major to hold missionary meetings. O'Bryan himself intends to join Major in the Scilly Isles.
Today he received a letter from James Thorne, who has been [in Scilly] for some time in order to 'regulate matters'. He says that they have twelve places for preaching and `that many more are open to them - that they may take 20 if they can supply them'. At Newport house rents are very dear as they get large numbers of visitors from London, and they [the Bible Christians] have had great difficulty in finding anywhere.
A young man [whose name has been crudely erased - see note below] from Whitestone, was at Kingland last Thursday. They had a `favoured time, there were three set at liberty'. All the family are in good health and send their love.
In a postscript he mentions that the November [Bible Christian] magazine has come back from the printers, and that he has received the first sheet of the December issue. They are busy trying to get them out before O'Bryan leaves for the west of Cornwall.
18 Oct. 1823.
An unidentified hand [?Mary O'Bryan] has annotated the letter with information about the young man from whitestone - `A sad end came to him - he kept wine and spirit stores for many years after leaving the ministry - and died insane but always retained affectionate remembrance'.
From William O'Bryan at Millpleasant near Plymouth, to Mary O'Bryan on the Isle of Guernsey, Channel Isles.
He has been somewhat concerned by her silence as he had assumed that she would send a letter through the post if Captain Ledstone had not arrived to act as a courier. They have been several times to the quay and to the Captain's quarters asking for a parcel. They spoke on one occasion to the Captain, who told them that he had been in Exeter. Her father would like to hear from Mary at least once a fortnight.
O' Bryan has got plenty of news which he could tell her if he had time. The Captain is apparently to leave tomorrow, and this afternoon O'Bryan intends to visit 'friend' Benny, one of the Millbrook Society, who lives in St John's Parish. Recently Benny was thatching a roof when the ladder broke. Another man tried to catch him but was unable to keep hold of his clothes. Benney was lucky to escape with his life, although his head is very bruised and his mental powers impaired.
O'Bryan intends to visit Kingsand tonight in order to make the most of his limited time.
Mary's letter arrived yesterday and was the cause of much joy. O'Bryan rode into Plymouth in the morning to speak to Mr Drew and on his way back, was told at the 'Comm-1' [?Commercial] Inn that the ship Alfred was in the Sound. The tide was out and she was therefore unable to berth at the quay. He returned home and their 'little venture all' Catherine [O'Bryan's daughter] took a boat alongside and returned home with the 'prize' [Mary's letters]. Captain Sellars was at their house and therefore received his [letter] immediately. Besty Henwood of Millbrook called soon after to find out the news as did Sarah Cory and Sister Cook from Kingsand. Such letters arouse some people to be 'active' and others to be 'generous'. No doubt Harry [Major] will be glad to have extracts from them for use at his missionary meetings.
Yesterday morning he saw Mrs Drew, who has very recently returned from visiting friends in Jersey. She said that [Mary Ann] Werry had attracted much attention there and that Mr Drew's brother-in-law a local preacher named Musgrave has offered to try to sell any books which O'Bryan may care to send him.
He is very grateful that God has seen fit to use his own daughter in the work and that Mary feels strong. Spiritual matters are discussed. James [Thorne] thinks that O'Bryan is harsh sometimes, and O'Bryan certainly feels that he sometimes has a 'short' method in doing things, although he does feel that he is as kind as most people.
There is something remarkable about Mary's dream about her mother [Catherine]. The night before she boarded the vessel [for the Isle of Wight] she was wearing a new bonnet and Eliza Jew (Mary's spiritual sister ie fellow preacher) was with her, as she is intending to assist [Mary] Toms after Catherine's return to the mainland. Reference is also made to Mary's dream about 'dear father Wesley'. O'Bryan would very much like Mary to write down everything that she can remember about such dreams. The last dream that Catherine had about [John Wesley] was similar and O'Bryan is convinced that Wesley is often close by him.
Is Benjamin Ball in Guernsey or Jersey? He was about to answer a charge before the local preachers' meeting but left the neighbourhood and some believe that he has gone overseas. O'Bryan hopes that the preachers will be careful not to accept anybody without a 'travelling ticket' or a recommendation from O'Bryan. Mary should write as soon as possible to [Samuel] Smale or Mary Ann Werry about it. O'Bryan feels sorry for poor Ben.
[A list of figures is given with no explanation].
Spiritual matters are discussed.
If O'Bryan was again Mary's age, he would make great improvements. He would manage his time better and keep a detailed daily journal.
Last night he saw friend Benny and found him much better, except for a stiff neck. He said that while he was falling he felt that he would die but experienced no fear, which is great blessing.
Mary's dear mother [Catherine] has also had an adventure. There is a new steam packet service to Portsmouth [the steam vessel Sir Francis Drake], which takes one day over the passage. The fare for the main cabin is £1.2.0, for the fore cabin 11s 6d and staying on the deck costs 8 shillings. O'Bryan went on board her and thought her a fine vessel. Catherine and Eliza took their passage on deck as it would only be for one day and all the cabins had been taken. It proved as well, as they did not like to stay below because of the smell. It is more pleasant than a coach journey for those who like the sea air, and they can have hot or cold meat and drink at any time, as at an inn. He has no doubt that everything would have been well if the crew had known how to manage and had been attentive to their duties. About noon the ship laid to for two hours while the ship's company were eating and drinking. Afterwards the captain began to gamble and spent much of the rest of the day below playing chess. The men were all said to have been drinking alcohol except for the steward who was very attentive to the passengers, but had nothing to do with working the vessel. The engine men appeared to be Cornish miners 'who are often like fishes for drinking'. The engineer finally lay on the deck and had to be carried below. At last someone discovered that the water in the boiler was almost all gone, with the result that the boiler was getting extremely hot. They poured water over it with the result that considerable steam was emitted with loud noises. The amount of steam was so great that it was discharged from the pipes over the deck. Mary's mother was wearing a new bonnet which was ruined and her cloak was also spattered with steam and soot. If they had gone below it might have been even worse, as the boiler was close to exploding, with no engineer on board in any meaningful sense.
The captain of the Windsor Castle and his wife were on board. In this emergency the women, who were all gathered at the stern, apparently acted better than the men. The captain's wife decided that the boiler fire must be put out, and her husband supported her decision. The fire was extinguished, which probably saved the ship from being blown up. The only thing left to do, was to hoist sail. Towards morning a captain of a warship came on deck and asked if they knew where they were, which they did not. Apparently the ship was close to the Eddystone Rock heading in the direction of Falmouth. The captain took command of the vessel and sailed close to the breakwater. A fishing vessel was in the vicinity, and Eliza, Catherine and several others took the opportunity of climbing on board her and so safe to land. They arrived home before the family had left the breakfast room on Wednesday morning. They had been gone since eleven the previous morning. Eliza looked pale but Mary's mother was in very good spirits, considering that they had spent all the previous night on an open deck. The crew had tried to persuade them to stay on board as they were sure that the ship would be ready to leave again in three hours, but Mary's mother was not so easily persuaded. The ship left again a day or two later and this time the boiler burst, but with no loss of life that O'Bryan has heard of. Since then they have not heard anything more about the ship, and presumably its reputation has been destroyed.
He thinks that it was Wednesday evening that another steam packet called here on the way from Ireland to Portsmouth. She had apparently left Ireland on the Monday and was two days on passage. Catherine and Eliza did not fancy going to sea again so soon. They remained here until Saturday and then left on the Diligence, a two horse carriage which has lately started to carry passengers on a scheduled route to Exeter. The fare is cheaper than the coach. They stayed in Exeter on Sunday and set off at five on Monday morning for Southampton. O'Bryan received a letter from Catherine, which she wrote on Sunday night and [William] Mason dropped a line to say that he had seen them off on Monday. He had expected a letter yesterday to say that they had arrived but nothing has arrived so far.
[William] Reed has written a very pleasing letter about the work in the St ?? circuit, where the people are expressing a great interest. He says that there was £20 owing on the chapel at Breage [near Helston] just a year ago, which the congregation though poor has now reduced to £5 after fifty of the congregation each agreed to contribute a small sum of money every week. At another place in the circuit the people are building a chapel themselves. Robert Couch has written to say that he has not felt the power of God to such an extent as since the last Conference. Harry Major `seems to be much in earnest'. He wrote a little while ago to say that they had a local preachers meeting, at which one of those present said that he had a dream of the `Bryanites' going through the land sounding trumpets. Some people said that there was no need to make such a noise at which a voice was heard to say that if `professors' had been as keen at they should have been, thousands who are now in hell would have been in heaven.
[William] Mason has also written of preaching out of doors. Apparently he preached last Sunday week and soon it was in the newspaper that `a preacher of the Ranters party had preached in St Paul's Street [Exeter]. Soon after he went in the street again, and while in prayer the first time two constables came and put him before the Magistrate, who examined him and ordered him to appear the next day at the Town Hall. Wm told the Constable he must soon appear at the bar of God. He came out and found scores waiting round the magistrate's door to know the result, when the friends went down the street singing "Come ye sinners poor wretched" and scores of people at their heels. The next day the Constable came to tell Wm that he must appear another day. Wm told him he might if his business did not call him another way. So when the said day came Wm went to the Town Hall, after a while, he and the constable were called for, but no constable appeared against him; at last he found a man who was brought for a witness. The court asked of him if Wm preached at such a place. The man said he did not hear him - the people said so!… Wm made his defence, the Magistrate interrupted him, and said he did not want a sermon there. Wm had not such a congregation for some time before, and did not know when he might again, so it was well to make the hay while the sun shined. One of the Magistrates said he doubted not that his motives were pure; but Wm was led into an error, Wm said no, he was led by the spirit of God…and said John the Baptist, our Lord and the Apostles preached in the open air; and our Lord commissioned his disciples to go into all the world and preach the Gospel…One of them said that was past, He [Mason] said, the words spoken to the disciples were to all that God inspires and sends forth…that much good had been done by out door preaching - that God was pleased to make his illiterate disciples instruments of great good; and even now, no human learning would qualify a preacher; but he must be inspired by the spirit of God; and thus…simple means answered great ends. He asked them what corrupt the minds of the public most singing Hymns, or singing songs in Exeter streets…They said they could not allow it, and if he did persist with it, they should call him forward again…'.
Mr Lyle has been ill at Bray's shop, although is now recovered and gone to Moorwinton.
Addressed to Mary O'Bryan, at Bethesda Chapel, New Brompton, Chatham, Kent.
From Catherine O'Bryan at the farm of Mr May in Hindra to [her daughter] Mary O'Bryan at the house of Mr Glasson in Madron near Penzance.
It seems a long time since she heard from Mary, and trusts that she is well and still close to God. Spiritual matters are discussed.
She has not seen Mary's dear father [William] since the Tuesday after she saw Mary last, but has received three letters from him. Mary's sisters are all well as is grandmother and Phillippia. Catherine has not however heard from Mary since Catherine saw Miss Glasson at Truro - Catherine trusts that Mary has received the things which she sent via `young Glasson' and that Mary has also sent her Aunt Oates a letter before now.
Various family matters are discussed in detail.
The quarterly meeting for this circuit is to be next Monday at [Abraham] Bastard's in ?Trulizza, after which Catherine hopes to return home to the dear children and then she shall expect to receive a long letter from Mary, who should not delay but write the week after next and send it by post. Perhaps Mary has already taken the opportunity of sending a letter via Mrs Lyle, who Catherine has heard will soon be in this area. Catherine will wish to hear again from Mary before Christmas.
Her time has been fully taken up since Mary left, with filling the place of an absent [press] ?corrector - first when Mrs Thorne left, Catherine had to take Em [Mary?] Cottle's place after she went home with Mrs Thorne. Then after Ann Mason's arrival, Catherine went to several new places in that circuit and also visited her brother and sisters at Gunwen. She also held a meeting at Chilbrook, stopped at Sister Lowry's place for two nights before meeting with Margaret Adams at Luxillion. They travelled together and she stayed with Adams for a fortnight, travelling as far as Uncle Frank Tamblyn's (where Mary first spoke). After parting company with Adams, Catherine stayed in the area and held meetings in several different places - one was at T. Cobildick's. Then [Harry] Major asked her to come to this circuit and Brother Rudd also invited her to go there for three weeks in Margaret's place.
She came here and took Sister Rudd's preaching plan last Sunday fortnight. She has had to attend three meetings each Sunday. Spiritual matters are discussed in detail.
Francis or Frank Tamblyn was an early supporter of the Bible Christian Connexion. In 1818 he built one of the Connexion's first chapels at Derry Combe between Liskeard and Bodmin in Cornwall.
Source: Thomas Shaw, A History of Cornish Methodlsm (1967) and Bourne, p.61.
Abraham Bastard was a noted Bible Christian local preacher in Cornwall. A renowned wrestler in his youth, he was converted by the preaching of the female itinerant Betsy Reed.
Source; Bourne, p.66-67.
Margaret Adams was a Bible Christian itinerant preacher of considerable repute, who worked closely with William O'Bryan in the early days of the movement. She was one of the original twenty-nine preachers listed in the minutes of the first Conference of 1819.
Source; Bourne, pp.69-70.
Mary Cottle entered the Bible Christian ministry in 1823. She was stationed in Kilkhampton, Cornwall, as a supplementary in 1830 after which she disappears from the record.
Source: Beckerlegge.
Containing fragments of a letter from William O'Bryan in Brooklyn, New York to his grand daughter Eden [Thorne?].
He is very pleased to answer her delightful letter, although he is rather distracted at the moment - he is unable to enter his room because it is being painted, and the back parlour where he is writing this also contains young Henry, who is home from school, and two young women who are sewing and engaging in title tattle. He will nevertheless do the best that he can.
Spiritual matters are discussed in detail.
Eden's uncle [Ebenezer?] was about six years of age or a little older, when they came here. He was born on March 19th 1825 and the family moved to the United States in 1831. Soon after their arrival, if O'Bryan's memory serves him right, his mother told him that Ebenezer had read through both the Old and the New Testaments and as far as Jeremiah a second time. The Bible was a great delight to him and hopefully a great comfort in times of affliction. O'Bryan has reason to think that many `old professors of religion never read it through'. If a person was to read just three chapters a day and a few short psalms, the entire work could be read in a single year - `The oldest book in the world, the wisest, and the best. God's great gift to man.next to the gift of his dear son. I suppose for 40 years or more I have as a lesson read it all through, beside occasional reading in it…there you may learn your duty to God; and man too, especially to your parents…' Spiritual matters are further discussed, with particular regard to the command that children obey their parents and the curse that will fall upon those who do not, with reference to passages in the Old and New Testaments.
O'Bryan would very much wish that Eden would reply to this letter, regardless of postage. His regards should be given to Eden's brother and sisters. He has written a letter to Eden's mother which he will send with this.
In memory of William O'Bryan, formerly of Gunwen, Luxillian, Cornwall, who died on January 8th 1868 in Brooklyn, New York.
From Robert Hawker in Plymouth to Revd. [Hallifield Cosgayne] O'Donnoghue in Mile End, London.
In hopes of answering O'Donnoghue's letter properly, Hawker deferred writing from one day to the next, while at the same time making enquiries regarding the Major who was mentioned in O'Donnoghue's letter. But now after many days of fruitless search, Hawker thought it proper to put pen to paper.
Perhaps O'Donnoghue is unaware that Stonehouse is about a mile from Plymouth and Hawker's age prevents him from going further from his house than the Church. He has been unable to find any trace of this man. Hawker can only suggest that O'Donnoghue contact the minister at Stonehouse, to whom the Major is probably known. It would have given Hawker much pleasure to have been more help.
From Charlotte Phelan at 17 Great Russell Street, London, to Hallifield Cosgayne O'Donnoghue at 32 Hart Street, Bloomsbury Square.
His gift she will prize for many reasons `among the choice of my little collection'.
She regrets very much that Hallifield was unable to accompany them today. They had a happy meeting - the Bishop of Lichfield [James Cornwallis] was in the chair, with Lords Lorton, Bexley and Carberry in attendance with a great many clergymen and other gentlemen. Nothing very decisive was settled, but it appears very likely that the society will build, after seeing what effect an appeal to the public at Freemason's Hall will produce. She hopes that Hallifield will then be in town, especially as Charlotte will try to remain in town for the meeting. She was very appreciative of O'Donnoghue's kind interest in the `humble individual, who in recounting the Lord's mercies to dear Ireland, could not help mixing up too much self in the recital…' Charlotte sends the accompanying volume with her compliments `as a very poor and very FAULTY effort in behalf of poor dear Ireland'. O'Donnoghue may indeed call it a romance, damaged by Charlotte's wild imagination.
A detestation of Roman Catholicism is inherent in Charlotte. She can remember the stirring of this feeling from about the age of six, and ever since she was converted, she has `in my poor way prayed and worked against it'. She was delighted to hear of O'Donnoghue's book and will study it diligently. Spiritual matters are discussed.
From John Jeffrey O'Donnoghue on board the Sir William Bensley at Portsmouth, to [his brother] Hallifield Cosgayne O'Donnoghue at Revd. Spencer's, Bradford, Wiltshire.
He was a little disappointed at the fact that he was in such a hurry to leave London that he had to postpone the writing of this letter. Happily he can now put pen to paper.
They have been detained for some days here owing to the non-arrival of another ship [the name of which has been partially erased but is probably the Fame], commanded by Captain Barker, which is the property of Mr Holder of Bristol. Some concern was felt at her failure to arrive, but happily she reached port safely on February 15th. His friend Captain Barker dined with them yesterday and invited O'Donnoghue to spend a day with him on board his vessel, which he intends to do at the beginning of next week. O'Donnoghue receives letters from home by each post and is a little surprised to discover that their father [Bartholomew] has not yet arrived in England. Yesterday he received a letter of introduction from [Richard Hely] Earl Donoughmore, addressed to Sir John Cradock, Commander in Chief at Fort St George in Madras, India, and one from ?Papa to Mrs Dick, wife of one of the [Madras] Council. The letter from the Duke of Portland [William Henry Cavendish], he has not yet passed on to the Governor, Lord William, as the Duke was out of town when O'Donnoghue left and has not yet returned.
They have twelve passengers on board, all of whom with one exception are [East India Company army] cadets and all are agreeable, but for two young boys and one `vulgar, conceited, talkative fellow, who is much disliked by us and the Captain'. They live as well as any man can expect. They have fresh meat to eat when near land, with soups and four or six dishes exclusive of vegetables, and pudding or pie every day. They have meat with their breakfast, tea and supper. They also have plenty of wine and rum etc.
He had a letter from Brother Morgan a few days ago - all is well. O'Donnoghue has sent Hallifield a present from his mother.
On the reverse of the sheet is a second letter from [John Jeffrey O'Donnoghue] in Bristol to [his brother] Hallifield Cosgayne O'Donnoghue. He has, thank God, arrived safely in Bristol after a long journey and a stormy passage from Waterford and Nailford.
Hallifield is to be congratulated on his happy situation - he must ensure that he will make use of this opportunity to improve on his Christian knowledge.
He has examples at hand, and should therefore be enthusiastic in his imitation. Spiritual matters are discussed.
Mamma says that Hallifield must write to her once a fortnight. Also he is not to purchase the volumes of Zion's Trumpet and the former part of the Christian Guardians as she will give her copies to him. He must beware of spending more money than he needs to, as it is sinful to do so. John can see that his brother may well be tempted to extravagance, especially when a book is involved. Some of his money should be given to the poor, not in the gratification of personal desires where books etc are concerned.
In a postscript he mentions that their nephew is a lovely child. Hallifield should not forget the family at Brockley, [Somerset?]. Mama received Hallifield's letter and is well as is Eliza. Their father is in London. Aunt and Uncle send their regards as does Mr Harris etc n.d.
From Samuel Way at Montefiore, North Adelaide, Australia, to Lewis Court, Care of [Digory Joseph] Rounsfell, 27 Richmond Road, Exeter, England.
He sent several packets of papers and photographs etc by the English mail last week for display at Court's exhibition of Bible Christian antiquities. Another packet is being posted this evening, containing the following:.
- copy of a water colour portrait of Way's mother, which was painted at about the time of her marriage in 1833.
- the most recent photograph of Lady [Katherine] Way, taken a few years before her death.
- some newspapers re the life of ?Shah Albyn.
- report by Revd. G. M. Shapley re G. M. C. A work among Australian troops in Egypt. Mr Shapley is a young Methodist minister, son of [William Thomas] Shapley, who is well known in Exeter and a former Bible Christian minister.
- a newspaper cutting re Revd. Joseph Foster's jubilee.
- the last annual report of the Shebbear College Old Boys' Association.
- letter from Colonel ?Niall, Commanding Officer of the Light Horse in Egypt to Doctor ?Tom. He has since accompanied his regiment to Gallipoli. The Colonel is a fine example of the kind of man turned out from Way College. Way has received very good accounts of the work which he did in Egypt and Gallipoli.
Way wishes that he could accompany this letter to the Exeter Conference.
From James Rowe at 8 Montem Road, Forest Hill, London, to [William] Hill.
Hill's letter of the 16th inst. arrived today, and in reply Rowe states his intention of leaving London on Saturday at 11.10am and will arrive in Exeter at 3.13pm. He will leave Exeter for Newton Abbot a day later.
He is very much obliged to Hill for offering to meet him at the railway station.
From T. Thorne Barnes at 6 Argyle Terrace, Plymouth, to [Lewis] Court.
Barnes promised his mother that he would look through the box of old letters that she left and destroy any that he felt it proper to be rid of. He has been so busy and he has had to read so many hundreds, many of which he has burned, that he has only just finished.
Among this enormous number there was none from either of the ladies named by Court.
He has enclosed the only ones that he thinks are likely to be of interest. They were written by William and Catherine O'Bryan and Barnes's Aunt Serena (Mrs Octavius Lake formerly Serena Thorne). He has also enclosed what remains of his mother's memoir.
Several of Barnes's grandmother's letters were stirring because of the firm faith which she expressed in God's goodness, despite the various ill with which she was afflicted. Many of them did however refer to matters which Barnes's mother wished to remain private and in Barnes's opinion rightly so. He has therefore destroyed many items which in some ways he would have liked to have kept.
He hopes that Court will be able to obtain what he desires from another source, but does not know who to suggest other than [William Bryan] Reed.
He would like the enclosures to be returned when finished with.
In a postscript, he mentions that Mrs [Serena] Lake was a preacher for many years.
From Serena Thorne in Middle Street, Padstow, to [her father Samuel Thorne].
She remembers that she finished her last letter [to Samuel] upon her return to Swansea after visiting the old castle. She remained there with Mr and Mrs Martin until Saturday when she returned to Aberavon to stay with Mrs Vanstone. Serena enjoyed her stay in Swansea very much. It is a considerable seaport town on the Bristol Channel and is very clean. The town has also a flourishing manufacturing industry. Various houses in the town are described.
One Sunday she had to walk out in the country for a mile or so before preaching in the afternoon at a Welsh chapel in a tiny village called Briton Ferry. They had a good meeting attended by an old Welshwoman wearing a hat about three quarters of a yard high. [Isaac Balkwill] Vanstone, the Welsh minister and Mr ?Hold were also among the congregation. The Welshman gave out the hymns in his native language and read the ?lesson. Serena felt very strange at speaking to a very large congregation of whom about half `are ??? to find out about half of what you are saying, and looking so eager to catch everything too'. Briton Ferry is quite a pretty place situated on the South Wales Railway line between Aberavon and Neath. In the evening she went to hear Isaac [Balkwill Vanstone] preach at Aberavon. Then on the Wednesday following, Serena preached at Aberavon and had a very good time. She had tea on Tuesday at Mrs Mansfield's house, where the Curate lodges who apparently never comes into the parlour to speak to his hostess, with the result that she has become very friendly with the [Bible Christian] ministers. On Wednesday Serena had tea at Mrs ?Bate's and had a lovely time - their house is out of town and is in a very pleasant situation which is described in detail.
On Thursday they went up to Cwm-Afon about 2 miles from Aberavon. She does not know how to describe this place as it is not really a town, although there are enough buildings there to make a large one. Cwm-Afon consists of houses and factories situated in a long narrow valley between high hills. There are copper and iron works in great abundance and the smoke which is produced is suffocating. Serena, accompanied by [Isaac Balkwill Vanstone] and Mrs Vanstone had walked there to hold a meeting, as it was their preaching night in the valley. Upon their arrival at the chapel they found painting and cleaning going on in preparation for an anniversary celebration the following Sunday - [much of the rest of this passage cannot be read due to the handwriting]. They found a `nice little society, [and] not a large but a very nice chapel'. Some people from `dear old Devon' are there. They seemed very pleased to see Serena because she is Samuel Thorne's daughter.
On Friday they went to Captain Foley's for tea. They had also arranged to go climbing but the wind was too high, `and threatened to take all manner of liberties with the gentleman's hats & ladys' ??'. Serena did get up early in the morning however and went for a long walk before breakfast. The following Sunday they were at Cwm-Afon and Serena preached in the morning and evening at the Bible Christian Chapel to very good congregations. In the afternoon she also preached at a very large Welsh chapel to about a thousand people. If the weather had been any better, there would have been even more. The Welsh minister was present to assist her. He commenced by giving out the hymn in Welsh then Serena prayed and read from the Bible. The minister gave out another hymn, after which Serena preached. When she finished, the minister rose and gave a brief outline [in Welsh] of what she had said. After the collection the minister gave out another hymn and concluded the service with prayer. He was very kind and helpful although Serena must confess that as the minister was speaking in Welsh, she leaned over the front of the pulpit to hear what was being said. The minister had barely begun to speak when she had to drop her face into her hands to hide her amusement at the strange sound of the Welsh language to a Devonian ear - `it is unspeakably funny and ludicrous, they talk or gurgle, back in their throats'. The Welsh singing is however truly soul-stirring - `It IS singing, not screaming,; the waves of melody rise ever nearer as though they would burst the ear (not as much by force as by the power of perfect melody) & swell up away through the skies to heaven to mingle with the songs of the angels…' It is rather amusing though to see the Welsh ministers going around at collection times `with shining pewter plates & bowing their thanks to anyone that gives anything'.
The next day (Monday) was their `public tea' and it passed off very nicely. They had speeches in the evening from Messrs Vanstone, Hobbs and ?Badd. Serena also said a few words which were well received.
The collections at the ?chapel ?anniversary amounted to £4 and they also sold about three hundred shilling tickets. They seemed very pleased with the results.
On Tuesday afternoon [Isaac Balkwill Vanstone] and Mrs Vanstone accompanied Serena to the station, where she took her leave of them and went on to Swansea, where she was met at the station by Mrs Conybeare. Serena preached in the town that evening and afterwards went for a lovely long walk of about four or five miles. She spent the night at Mrs Conybeare's and left the next morning at six on the steam ship for Padstow. Mr Conybeare accompanied her as far as Ilfracombe although he was very sick. Serena remained on the upper deck until Ilfracombe, when she went below to the ladies cabin because of the cold. She had not been there for ten minutes before she was struck down with sea sickness. She has never been sick before but the channel between Ilfracombe and Swansea is the roughest part of the passage. She supposes that nothing is as bad as sea sickness, however she was plucky and talked, laughed and chatted as if nothing was wrong. After Mr Conybeare left the ship at Ilfracombe, Serena made the acquaintance of a gentleman, `who entertained me very pleasantly & was exceedingly kind…I believe he is a churchman but very liberal in his views & I think a very humble Christian. I scared him a bit I ?fear, by telling him at last that my MOTHER, father, grandfather & ?uncle were ministers, but I did not let him suspect myself to be one of the CLOTH, as I didnt want to ?make him ?fall into the sea'. Serena thoroughly enjoyed her voyage despite her sick stomach. The scenery was lovely, the weather beautiful ' & my companion very interesting'. Serena arrived safely here at about 6pm and found neither L.L. or Harriet at home. She [Harriet] had gone out for a walk. Serena was able to surprise her upon her return. She had apparently got the week wrong and was not therefore expecting Serena to return.
Serena has felt very much better since her voyage and expects that the sickness did her good.
Re Mary Thorne, daughter of William O'Bryan, with particular regard to the closing years of her life.
Compiled by one of her daughters.
From William Luke in Princess Street, Southampton, to [William] Beer at 4 College Street, Brighton.
At the last Conference [1865], Luke paid 11 shillings and 9 pennies to the treasurer 'on account of Brighton Chapel'. He understands that it was a deficiency in the account of interest which was forwarded to him. Beer should be able to insert it into the chapel accounts and repay him at the next Conference.
How is Beer? and how is the work in Brighton? Luke hopes that Beer has had more encouragement than has hitherto been the case.
Luke is hard at work building chapels. The responsibility is very heavy, but there can be no success without them.
He supposes that Beer has heard that the ?President has at last consented to give up the offices of editor and book steward.
From [Matthew] Robins in Bideford to [his son] Jamie.
As it is now about 5 or 6am, he calculates that Jamie and his dear mother would both be in bed. Robins as usual was up at 4.
He received Jamie's letter a few days ago, but does not know anything more about the statues than when he wrote last.
Robins received a few lines from Mr ?Culliford yesterday, saying that Ms ?Storkes is dead. It was only on the Sunday before Robins came away that he took tea at her house. Yesterday also he was informed that Mr Penhale the old man (Martha will know who he means) has broken his thigh in a fall - a serious accident for one so old. Last Sunday week [Peter] Labdon was at Buckland in this circuit and preached and told the people that in regard to time, their next meeting would be at the 'bar of God'. One of his audience, a respectable farmer and brother to the preacher Mr ?Beck, subsequently died on the Monday morning.
They shall soon be meeting in Conference and electing the officers - the enclosed contains the names of the [current] officers.
Robins has been very poorly since Sunday with his old complaint, but felt better this morning.
In a postscript he mentions that his lodgings are as comfortable as he could desire. Martha and her daughter are both very kind.
From Paul Robins in Bradford, Devon, to [his brother] Matthew.
Matthew's third letter since he [Matthew] received Paul's proposals, arrived last night with several others. He has only just now had the opportunity of reading it - he opened it and after he saw what it was about, put it to one side until after he had read the rest of the mail.
He is grateful for the careful way in which Matthew looked into the proposals and he intends to examine more fully the amendments which his brother suggests. Paul's lack of opportunity to do so, occasioned the failure to reply to Matthew's first letter. He is still unable to give detailed consideration to Matthew's recommendation regarding the children of the preachers. At first sight it would appear to represent an improvement on the present situation but he must give it more thought.
The proposals are aimed at having a stimulating effect on people and preachers, `therefore the preacher will have only the circuit to look to for his salary for the time being', unless the Conference chooses to make a grant to meet a shortfall. If the Conference cannot make a grant sufficient for the need, the members of the circuit must either exert themselves or cover the debt.
Paul intends to adopt Matthew's amendments to the 8th and 9th proposals.
In reference to proposal 1 on `Miss Regs'[Home Mission regulations], Paul is of the opinion that `if £100 is granted the 1st year, it shall be reduced to £90 the second; then there shall be a new grant made of more or less according to their necessities, as some stations will require more then others according to their peculiar circumstances. Say in one case the grant the 3rd year, may be £100 again in another case it may be only £80, £70, £60 etc according to their peculiar necessities. And the grant and reduction be made every alternate year for 10 years if required'.
He also intends to alter Proposal 2, to reflect his feeling that mission stations should be made into circuits as soon as is practicable.
Paul intends to present the proposals with amendments at the next Conference. He has consulted with a few of the brethren and was encouraged by them to proceed. The President has asked him to make the proposals as perfect as possible and to write on the matter to each district preacher, although Paul does not know if he will have time to do that. Matthew may consult William Reed and if he thinks it proper, he may also raise the matter at the District meeting. Paul is not desperate that his bill be carried if a better one can be introduced. He is however convinced that it is time that steps were taken to put the Connexion on a firmer [financial] footing.
Paul gave a copy of his proposals to [James] Thorne, who later told him that he had quickly looked at it but expressed no further opinion.
He has also suggested some amendments to the rules of the Preachers Fund and would advise his brother to do the same. He supposes that the minority must go along with the majority respecting any alterations `or lose what they have subscribed'.
It will give them great pleasure if Matthew could visit them before the Conference. If he travels by van or coach he might come on to Woodford Bridge, which is about four miles from Shebbear.
Anne and Sampson have been absent for three weeks. She consulted with Dr Budd of Plymouth, who told her that Sampson's affliction is constitutional. He also advised them that he should wear flannel drawers and shirt, go to bed and rise early, have as much fresh air as possible, take off all the bandages from the face and drink porter. They have been almost a fortnight at Polperro and Anne's sister Mary intends to return to Plymouth tomorrow and see Dr Budd again, but when they will return is not known. Matthew should not let the idea of finding his brother without a housekeeper deter him from visiting.
Samuel is in lodgings and is pretty well, except for a problem with his eyes - they are bloodshot etc. Paul feels that `my sight still gets nearer - am sometimes pained from wind in my bowels else am pretty well'.
With regard to the address, Paul likes it, but the following things occurred to him while he was reading it;.
1. Would it not be a good idea to hint that some Bible Christians had `come away' [from other denominations], as at the moment the speech would seem to suggest that `all members are from the world'.
2. `Is the colouring a little too deep respecting the intimation it gives of uniform advancement & prosperity, from 10s to 100s & that to 1000s…and yet it is a fact so let it be'.
3. It would appear from the address to local preachers that the Conference consists of itinerant preachers only. It would be well to remember that the next Conference will have many lay participants.
4. Paul thinks that it would be proper to have a paragraph on family religion, 'and one on a UNIFORM attention to religious duties, such as private devotion, attend the class meetings & other means of grace from PRINCIPLE rather than from EXCITEMENT. I fear Christianity is nurtured among us too much like plants in a hot house. It is force, work & excitement more than deliberate conviction & choice'. He also feels that a third paragraph should be inserted respecting the duty of the Church to provide for the religious education of the young. Matthew does refer to Sunday Schools but Paul would like to see more about religious services aimed specifically at children.
In a postscript, Paul states that his brother was right to send him the letter from Swansea. Sister Ann Hambly had expected to hear from Matthew, and is of the understanding that he had promised to write to her. How is Mr Moyle?.
Paul thinks that Matthew's address is different on the President's circular than the version in the minutes.
From Paul Robins at Shebbear to [his brother] Matthew in Breage.
They are leaving this place a little after midnight, so that they can go down to Launceston by the van tomorrow morning. The book panels are to go at the same time, and Paul has asked [James] Thorne to enclose a map of England and a book or two in Matthew's panel. Brother Hooper leaves with the luggage next Monday for Padstow, whence the ship ?Voluna in which they are to sail is scheduled to depart [for Canada] on Good Friday. There has however been some indication that she may sail the preceding day. They shall be glad to receive a letter from Matthew, care of [Thomas] Tregaskis's Salt Water Mill at Padstow.
James Thorne preached a funeral sermon for [William] Buckingham at Lake Chapel, Shebbear yesterday afternoon and Paul took his farewell of his friends in the evening. They had an unusually large congregation and there was a good spirit among them. Mr ?Pyor, the new school master has come to Shebbear and the `Proprietary School' seems to be progressing a little bit better. Several additional pupils are expected this week.
Next Sunday Paul has promised to be at the anniversary celebration of St Austell Chapel. Brother Hooper was to have been married this day, but it would appear that the certificate has not yet arrived from Launceston, in which case the wedding must be put off.
From Catherine O'Bryan [the letter is signed Bryant] on Fourth Street, New York, United States, to [her daughter] Mary Thorne.
Mary's dear son James came here last night to Mr Shaw's where she is staying for the present. She was very glad to see him although she did not know him at first sight. She did not find his beard attractive but put up with that when she discovered his name from Mary's sister C. C. [Bussell]. He stayed the night and Catherine talked too much than was comfortable for her voice so that in the end she had to desist from speaking, but C. C. more than made up for her.
Spiritual matters are discussed.
They have been expecting to hear from Mary for some weeks past, especially of her dear child's departure from this world for a better one. When one has faith there is no reason to mourn.
Catherine did love C. C. Bussell, for `she was a most amiable child from her birth, hardly like any other child of her age, never favoured as many are now, with religious instruction, yet she seemed heavenly minded…though she was so much afflicted for years…she was as pleasant and composed to lay down and suffer quietly all her pain, (rheumatism in every limb of her body, a violent cough and the shortness of breath besides) she never murmured or complained…' It was a trying time for Mary's sister, but she was given strength to be with her dear child throughout her last illness, although she felt very weak and sick for some time after the funeral. She remains apparently unmoved by her trials but is in truth more affected than many people who show grief openly. If Mary could find time to write her a letter, she is sure that it would be most welcome. Spiritual matters are discussed in detail.
Catherine hopes that Mary has received the elegy which was written by the editor who had stayed there for a short time, and had known the child very well. It is well done and very true to life.
Mary's parents are very mercifully dealt with by God, `being brought down to the grave by degrees in such an easy way, we seldom feel much pain, yet we feel weaker. Your father [William] still go from one child's house to another frequently, for he like to be moving, yet he has to ride, whenever he do walk he is very tired; he sleeps well and generally a good appetite. I fail in appetite but my green tea is as good as ever, and it seems to do me more good than all the meat thait I eat. When I move from one house to another, C.C. Shaw comes and takes me along. I can walk but porely from weakness in my back, just from the house to the omnibuss or cars and thats all my walking from Monday morning to Saturday noon. I generally got knitting in my hand, though I may not do much of it. I read etc just as I feel to do. Sabaths are profitable days though I cannot go to a place of publik worship.
My dear husband often come and spend the day with me, and so we enjoy our sabbaths together and feel we are not forsaken'.
Just before James arrived in the house, Catherine finished knitting a shawl for herself to wear under her cloak. It is the first that she has ever knit. She might knit one better, but shall send this to Mary as a token of `remembrance'.
On the reverse of the above is a letter from William O'Bryan in New York, United States, to [his daughter Mary Thorne]. He came here this morning to accompany James [Thorne - Mary's son] to his ship, but they discovered that the sailing has been put back by a day or two or perhaps longer. Little reliance is to be put on sailing vessels.
Mary's mother had a letter ready for despatch, but had not yet sealed it and so gave him permission to add a few lines. He also hastily wrote her a few lines yesterday while with James and his guide. `Our other dear children are more ?engaged than C. S. & she is (I think James will not swear to the contrary) a first rate traveller'.
He trusts that James will let O'Bryan know how Thomasina and the rest of the family in England are. He excuses Mary's silence on account of the many trials which she has recently suffered. Dear Susanna `favoured me with a few acceptable lines once, - I think William might write one in 7 or 10 years'.
Mary's letter which was sent to Canada, was apparently lost by Ebenezer, and the last which O'Bryan sent to James was lost he says by Mary, and it was a long one too. Mary has a daily place in his prayers and meditations. Spiritual matters are discussed.
`James, if he arrives can tell you all about his brothers and sisters prospects. If I can form a guess, I think Mary will return to you or come to [New York] for a while'.
Of the Thorne and O'Bryan families:.
From the diary of Hatton Rattenbury.
- Fowy harbour, Cornwall.
- Oystermouth Castle and harbour.
- Tower Bridge.
- Carl M. Von Webber.
- Ancient Gateway - St Andrews.
- West Tower of Goodrich Castle, Herefordshire.
- Newstead Abbey.
- Mount Claremont Park.
- St Andrew's Priory, Rochester.
- Cheddar Castle, Somerset.
- Berkahampstead, Hertfordshire - Birthplace of William Cowper.
- Bayham Priory, Sussex.
- Netley Abbey.
- Temple Grove.
- Clarendon Press and Theatre.
- Ayot St Lawrence.
- Cowling Castle, Kent.
Issued to members of the Middleton and Harris families.
For the following circuits:.
19th and early 20th century portrait photographs of the following:.
Containing documents regarding the Australian Bible Christian and United Methodist Church.
From George W. Shapley [representative of the Adelaide branch of the Young Men's Christian Association] in Cairo, Egypt, to Mr Wheeler of the Adelaide branch of the Young Men's Christian Association, Australia.
The last few days have been very trying. Casualty trains have been arriving with men on board who only a few days ago were sitting in the YMCA tents. Some are now bandaged from head to foot, others are in a state of coma and many have lost limbs.
There is no need to give details of the fighting, as reports must by now have reached home. There is however one outstanding fact - `Our boys came back smiling. Those who have been in the hospitals right through say they never hear one word of complaint. The boys are all itching to get back and take the places of their fallen comrades'.
The reinforcements went forward almost immediately after news [of the fighting] had come back. They leapt at the chance of going into action - `it was magnificent to see the spirit in which these men prepared themselves to entrain at short notice. Just prior to leaving…there went up a shout, "Are we downhearted? No! No! No!" and then as they moved off they started to up "Australia will be there".
They thought that it was vital to devote as much time as possible to the wounded, so Gordon Green has gone with other YMCA secretaries to Alexandria where there are six hospitals. Shapley himself will remain at this base camp temporarily, but will go to one of the hospitals as soon as possible. There is only eight hundred men in this camp now, and while his dearest wish would be to go to the wounded men, it would be disastrous to abandon this work now. The work which the YMCA is doing here means a great deal to the troops and there are new drafts arriving on a regular basis.
Stamped [for the attention] of Chief Justice [Samuel] Way.
Of Lady Katherine Way [wife of Samuel Way].
Reprinted from the
Of Samuel Way.
Of the funeral of Samuel Way.
Cutting from
Of Samuel Way.
Cutting from
Of Samuel Way, written by Revd. [William Francis] James of South Australia.
By J. E. Carruthers entitled, 'An Eminent Methodist Jurist and Proconsul - The Rt. Hon. Samuel J. Way, Bart'.
Of Samuel Way.
With Chief Justice Samuel Way.
Cutting from
Of the memorial service held at Lake Chapel, Shebbear, for the late Samuel Way.
Showing the funeral of Samuel Way in Adelaide, Australia.
Cuttings from
To Revd. Joshua Foster on the occasion of the sixtieth anniversary of his entry into the Methodist ministry.
Of James Culver.
Of Lady Katherine Way [wife of Samuel Way].
Of Methodist Chapel at Goodwood in South Australia.
Of Way College, Adelaide, Australia.
Of Mr and Mrs T. Barnes and family, acknowledging the condolences expressed on the death of William Thorne.
In memory of the late Lady Katherine Way.
Reprinted from
Issued to celebrate the jubilee of Ashton Memorial Church, Stirling, South Australia.
South Australian Bible Australian Conference Plan, Adelaide.
Bible Christian Church Annual Assembly, Victoria District, Australia.
To the Itinerant Brethren, issued by order of the Connexional Committee.
The first part of this letter concerns the use of the word Reverend by certain itinerant preachers. This is deemed to be contrary to Connexional practice and must cease, as it is likely to cause financial loss to the Missionary Society.
Signed by [Matthew] Robins.
30 Jan.1857.
The second part of this letter sets the date and time of the next meeting of the Missionary and other Committees as May 13th [1857]. The meetings will be held at Shebbear. Details of the Book account are also enclosed.
Signed by James Thorne.
2 Apr.1857.
For Lewis Court of Drewsleighnton in Devon, to appear before the Justices of the Peace on February 12th at Smethurst Schoolroom, Morehamptonstead, for non-payment of the poor rates.
The above document relates to Free Church passive resistance to legislation concerning education.
Written to commemorate the erection of the Bible Christian Chapel at Maidenwell, Portland.
Entitled 'The Wonder of Wonders'.
Entitled 'The Bible Christians Characterized'.
Re the Mary Lutley Clock.
Of the West entrance of Llandaff Cathedral, drawn by Lewis Court.
On temperance.
For [Frederick William] Bourne, containing titles of the hymns sung at the funeral service at Shebbear.
Of the memorial tablet to Bessie Ann Court, wife of Lewis Court.
By Revd. [William Francis] James entitled 'Seven Years in Cardiff [1875-81] and After'.
Reprinted from
Two items of devotional poetry.
From Francis Martin.
Re the decisions of the Conference as follows:.
1. Preachers should forward the information about themselves which has been requested by the Preachers' Annuitant Society. This is to allow the Secretary to complete the Register Book.
2. Rules re the entitlement of preachers' wives to financial help from the Fund.
A statement of the account of the Preachers' Fund is also enclosed.
The President [Francis Martin] feels that they enjoyed one of the best Conferences ever. The delegates were united as one and the presence of God was felt by all. The anniversary of the Missionary Society was particularly blessed, as [James] Way and [James] Rowe said their farewells before leaving for Australia.
A statement of the Book Room account is also enclosed.
Youth's Penny Miscellany.
Of Bible Christian Ministers and Laymen - The late Frederick William Bourne by William John Mitchell.
On Baptism by [James] Ashton.
What shall we show to Babylon - The Sermon to the 80th Annual Conference of the Bible Christian Conference, preached at the Wesleyan Church, Broadway, Cardiff…July 27th 1898, by Herbert [William] Horwill.
By [John] Johns entitled A Reverie on Billy Bray.
Of the Bible Christian Society.
In memory of Revd. John Britton Stedeford, delivered by Revd. Arthur Hancock at the funeral service held in St James's Church, Forest Hill, London.
A Song of a Century by Lewis Court.
Shebbear - A Holiday Souvenir by [Thomas Charles] Jacob.
Programme of the United Methodist Church Copplestone, Church and Sunday School Centenary.
Of the opening of the Rock United Methodist Church.
Of the United Methodist College at Shebbear.
Ploughman or Prophet or From the Secular to the Sacred - An ordination charge delivered to six young men on the occasion of their being received into the full ministry in the Bible Christian Chapel, Bedminster, Bristol, August 3rd 1894 by Rev. [James] Woolcock D.D….
On the State Church and the Free Churches by Revd. [Mark] Brokenshire (including replies by Revd. R. Granville, Rector of Bideford).
The Bible Christians - their Origin, Constitution, Doctrine and History by William Luke.
The Bible Christian Connexion - The New Century Movement - issued under the direction of a committee appointed by Conference.
Issued for the Crewkerne United Methodist Church centenary celebration.
For the stone-laying ceremony, Edgehill College, Bideford.
For the thirtieth anniversary of the founding of the Greenbank United Methodist Church, Plymouth.
Two copies of Joseph Hancock - Nonagenarian Methodist Minister. A Biographical Sketch by [William Francis] James.
Of Ready Aye Ready - The story of a Romantic Career (The life of Revd. William Ready) by Lewis Court.
Issues of
The South Australian Bible Christian Monthly.
A Sermon for the encouragement of those who are on Pilgrimage for Eternal Glory by William Searle Harris.
A Reply to the Revd. J. Blackmore's Charges against the Bible Christians contained in his Pastoral Letter to the inhabitants of Kingsympton, Devon by James Thorne.
Handbook to the services held in connection with the 88th Annual Conference of the Bible Christians, Embankment Chapel, Plymouth.
Souvenir handbook of the opening of the Liphook New Methodist Church.
The Churches of Brighton - Descriptive sketches of their Past History and Present Characteristics with outlines of Sermons.
Of the fiftieth anniversary of the founding of Thorne Memorial United Methodist Church, Bear Street, Barnstaple.
An Address delivered by Mrs W. Terrett of Church House, Bedminster, Bristol, on the occasion of her laying one of the Memorial stones of Redcliff Crescent Chapel.
Of Edgehill Girls' College, Bideford, North Devon.
A Review by Revd. [Henry] Kenner of "Studies in the Old Testament" and "The Preacher and the Modern Mind" by Revd. George Jackson B.A.
Members' rules of the Bible Christian Connexion.
Issues of the
Entitled Australian Glimpses by Revd. [William Francis] James.
Cutting from
From Revd. W. Cuff (of the Shoreditch Tabernacle) at 93 Lordship Road, Stoke Newington, London, to Lewis Court. Court's letter touched Cuff greatly. Spiritual matters are discussed, and Cuff's conversion at the age of sixteen (55 years before) is described.
From Colonel A. Miell of the Ninth Light Horse, Australian Forces, based at Heliopolis Camp, [Egypt], to Dr Torr [in Australia].
They moved from Mena Camp to Heliopolis last week and are holding themselves in readiness for the summons to the front line. The landing force fought splendidly and Miell is convinced that the Australians will perform deeds worthy of the best traditions of the British army. The conduct of the Light Horse is very good and that of the infantry no worse than can be expected from a large number of men surrounded by temptation `in this sink of iniquity'. The wasters have largely been sent back to Australia and the men who are left will make the people at home proud. They are a splendid body of men, especially the Light Horse. A British officer from the Tenth Hussars is spending a few days with them and is greatly impressed with the quality of the troops.
While the regiment was training in field sketching and reconnaissance this morning, Miell and his staff took the opportunity of visiting the Virgin's tree and well. Joseph and Mary with the infant Christ are said to have rested there during their flight to Egypt. The ancient tree is now almost dead although a young tree is growing close by, which is an offspring of the old one. The well is thirty feet deep and has an excellent supply of water. There are two native lifts to raise water from the well. As they drank the water, the Australians thought of Christ's visit nineteen hundred years before. Spiritual matters are discussed.
There is a Catholic Church close by although they did not have time to visit it.
The horses are doing splendidly and Miell is of the opinion that his regiment is the best mounted in Egypt. All the officers and men are anxious to go into combat.
His best wishes should be given to Chief Justice [Samuel Way], [Octavius].
Lake and other well-wishers.
From Samuel Way at Montefiore, North Adelaide, Australia, to Lewis Court at Brendon, Salcombe Road, Plymouth, England.
Court's letter of 14th December gave him much pleasure. He is pleased that it is proposed to establish a museum of Bible Christian memorabilia at the centenary celebrations in Exeter next July, and that it has been suggested that the display be a permanent one. It is also gratifying for Way to be in touch with someone who shares his love of the Connexion and his wish that its treasures be preserved.
A good many portraits have been preserved in South Australia in a detached room in Joseph Ashton's garden, which is practically the home of the Old Scholars' Association of the Shebbear and Way College. Mr Ashton's health is weak, as a result of his involvement in the movement agitating for the early closing of hotels. He is now in Tasmania and may go on to New Zealand. Way cannot communicate with him until his return.
[Katherine] Thorne and Way both have a set of Bible Christian magazines, Conference minutes and missionary reports. They intend one set to go to England and the other to form part of a permanent collection here. It should however not be expected that either person will part with their set during their lifetime. [Katherine] Thorne's set is the more uniformly bound of the two, and as it belonged to her father [James], they agreed that it ought to be ultimately returned to England.
The same may be said of the two oil paintings of James and Mrs Thorne, which Way commissioned shortly after James Thorne's death in 1872.
The presentation portrait of Way's father James on the completion of his ministerial jubilee cannot leave South Australia, but there was a later and much finer portrait, which was copied several times - Way will try to get one of the copies for Court. There is also a fine Bronze medallion, of which several copies were depicted at Thames Ditton for members of the Way family, and again Way will try to acquire one for Court. Failing this, he is prepared to pay for another copy to be taken.
With regard to early publications, if Court provides Way with a list of what he wants then he will see what he can do.
Much to his disappointment, Way is afraid that he will be unable to visit England for the Jubilee celebrations. The event will however not be forgotten in South Australia.
Court did not state whether the publications he mentioned, are articles or books. Whatever form they take, Way would be grateful to receive early copies.
[Katherine] Thorne celebrated her 88th birthday in November. Her mind is clear, although her body is frail. She paid them a visit during the last heat wave when the temperature reached 109' in the shade. It was very trying for the old lady although she appears to have got over it quite well.
From Samuel Way at Montefiore, North Adelaide, Australia, to Lewis Court at Brendon, Salcombe Road, Plymouth, England.
The list of desiderata furnished by Court for inclusion in the proposed Conference Museum is suggestive, but Way is afraid that they will be unable to do a great deal towards accomplishing what Court wishes. Joseph Ashton, who has charge of the portraits and other collections accumulated by the Shebbear and Way College Old Scholars' Association has again suffered a break down in health and is therefore away on a trip to Ceylon. Way will try to see his brother James Ashton, who is a Registrar of the Insolvent Court and has also been away on sick leave, and [William Francis] James `the indefatigable scribe of the Methodist Union Movement'.
As for Way, he is so hard at work it is difficult to find the time even for this very welcome task. [Katherine] Thorne is also eager to help but is very old and feeble. He shall send a copy of Court's letter to her anyway. If her brother John Thorne were still a member of the `Church Militant' he would be able to give very effective help. He is sure that she would like to send herself a beautiful carte of James and Catherine Thorne in old age, of which there are several copies in existence. She is in fact anxious that they appear in the second and later editions of The Golden Chain.
Way is in no doubt that he can supply some of his dear father's letters [James Way] but it is unlikely that he can do so in time. Most of the documents of that kind are upstairs and he has to be very cautious in climbing stairs. It is simply impossible for him to go through the boxes in which those documents are arranged.
He is sure that [Katherine] Thorne would willingly provide such a letter as Court requested.
He has a complete set of the Bible Christian magazines, minutes and missionary reports. [Katherine] Thorne also has a fairly complete set for the period of her father's editorship, uniformly bound, but some of the later volumes have not been bound and are incomplete. This is the set which Way thinks should go to England as Thorne exercised his ministry there.
Way distributed his father's library soon after his death and gave the cream of the old editions to Revd. John Botheras. If Way is unable to supply a volume, he is sure that Mrs Botheras would be able to do so.
He is afraid that there will not be time to look up the photographs before Conference.
He does not remember when his letter to Court was written, but his opinion is that the South Australian centenary celebrations should be held about 9th October when the first Bryanite Society was formed at Lake Farm in Devon.
He is delighted with Court's enthusiasm. He remembers well the Conference at Greenbank Chapel in Exeter and it is delightful to think that a boy spectator on that occasion is now a minister of the Church. Court is however mistaken as to the presentation of the deeds of Lake Farm on that occasion; they were actually given some weeks later at the [Shebbear] College Speech Day.
The awful drought which has lasted for two years has happily ended. For the last week they have had old-fashioned winter weather with storms sweeping up the coast and rain descending in great abundance over the country. May the war soon come to an end also.
From [Samuel Way in Adelaide, Australia] to Revd. [Digory Joseph] Rounsfell, Chairman of the Exeter District in England, and E. Bradley, Honourary Secretary of the United Methodist Church, Exeter.
Way has been looking forward for some years to the Centenary of the Bible Christian Connexion. His long intended visit to England has been delayed, so that he might be present. He had hoped to be accompanied by his dear wife, but this was not to be [Lady Katherine Way died in 1914].
This year is also the Centenary of Methodism in Australia, but Way need hardly say that the Bible Christian anniversary is of greater personal interest.
He is very honoured by the invitation to preside at the great Centenary celebration on Wednesday July 14th, but he is afraid that he is unable to accept. His health has been thoroughly restored but he is working full time on legal, academic, philanthropic and religious matters, so that he is unable to get away this year. Way was absent from the Court a great deal last year and they are very shorthanded on the bench. They need an addition to the judicial staff, but owing to the drought and the financial situation brought on by the war, he doubts that a fourth judge will be appointed just yet.
He would however be very proud to have his name associated with the celebration, and if it is decided to proceed with his correspondents' suggestion, Way would like to propose Mr G. P. Dymond as his representative. This wish should not however prevent the appointment of another person.
If Way is to visit England again, it must be soon as he enters upon his eightieth year in April next.
From Revd. Harold Reed at The Manse, Shebbear, North Devon to Lewis Court.
Thus far he has secured the following items [for use in the Centenary exhibition]:.
Personally Reed does not think that it would be safe to leave the room unlocked during the dinner hour. It will also be necessary to appoint a person to be in charge of the room when it is open.
Court should let Reed know his opinions about the opening hours, and Reed will then reply to the letter from the Conference Hand Book Committee.
From Samuel Way in Adelaide, South Australia [to ??Lewis Court].
In addition to the packets [of papers] mentioned in Way's memorandum of yesterday, twenty lantern slides have been sent by parcel post and the other packets by book post.
Additional ??photographs of [William] O'Bryan's daughter (Mrs Burnell), Thomas Richards, who was for many years a leading layman and Revd. Thomas Keen [are also available]. They shall also try to send one by Revd. Joseph Foster who is almost ninety years of age) by the next mail.
From [William Bryan] Reed at Alexandra House, Bideford, to Lewis Court.
In The United Methodist of yesterday, Court is credited with having said that the foundation stone of the Bideford [Bible Christian] Church was laid on 19th April 1865. Is not the year 1865 a misprint? Should not the year be 1864? Reed became Superintendent of this Circuit in 1865. The chapel at Taunton had been opened and had been in use for some time. Further, the interval from 1864 to 1924 is sixty years - a diamond jubilee. Reed concludes therefore that the stone was laid in 1864.
He remembers visiting Taunton some years earlier when Francis Martin was Superintendent (1851-53), at which time the chapel was part of Martin's own dwelling house. The residential part, which Reed also occupied, has since been taken down to make way for a schoolroom.
From [Frederick William] Bourne at Woolstone Road, Catford, London, to [Lewis Court].
He is sending the volume of [Conference] minutes 1819-44 inclusive. He notes that Court only wants them for a short time, and he would therefore like them back as soon as possible as he may want to use them in connection with his own work.
Bourne did not derive much benefit from his stay in Sidmouth - perhaps he expected too much. The last month has been really trying but he is feeling a bit better now.
From [Miss] J. Robins, c/o Mrs Cook, 23 ?Trevamion Road, Wadebridge, Cornwall, to [Lewis] Court.
She was grateful for the loan of her Uncle's [Paul Robins] letter, which she is pleased to return now for use at the Conference. The enclosed circular may also be of interest. Some time ago she advertised in the ?? newspaper and received a reply from a Mr Williams. She will enclose one of his letters as Court may wish to contact him.
She managed to see Mrs Olivier and Mrs Wills, but was very sorry that through having to wait so long for a train, she was unable to see Mrs and Mrs Dymond.
From [Miss] J. Robins, c/o Mrs Cook, 23 ?Trevamion Road, Wadebridge, Cornwall, to [Lewis] Court.
In unpacking some things which had been hidden away for two years, she was delighted to come across an engraving of her father [Matthew Robins], which she had been most anxious to lay her hands on. She is sending it on with another of her Uncle Paul Robins. Both can be used in the proposed Bible Christian Museum. She is sure that Court will return them at his earliest possible convenience with the letters. She will remit the postage when she finds out the amount due.
She would also like to have sent her father's preaching license, but has been unable to find it - someone else may have already furnished Court with a copy.
She would be grateful if Court could return the portraits and letters etc in the old writing case, which she is now sending.
She hopes that the forthcoming Conference will be a very happy occasion, rich in spiritual blessing.
From [Miss] J. Robins, c/o Mrs Stick, 4 Bay View Terrace, Newquay, Cornwall, to [Lewis Court].
She is very grateful for the good care that he took of the few articles which she sent him, and for returning them so quickly.
With regard to his request that some of the circulars be donated for permanent display, she will give it consideration and will certainly give something.
From [Frederick William] Bourne to Miss J.Robins.
Addressed to Revd. W. Hill, Farnham, Surrey.
Addressed by Samuel Way to Lewis Court, Greenbank, Plymouth.
To an address to be made by Samuel Bowley, President of the National Temperance League, at the Athenaeum, [London]. Addressed to Revd. [James] Woolcock in Plymouth.
On the reverse of the invitation are miscellaneous pencil notes.
From [Charles George] Weetman at the Manse, Kilkhampton, Bude in Cornwall, to [Lewis] Court.
Enclosed in the piece of work by Johanna Brooks, sold for the benefit of the funds of Eastcote Chapel, where she worshipped for many years.
He has failed to obtain anything else of interest.
From Miss Katherine Thorne [daughter of James Thorne] in Adelaide Australia, to [Lewis] Court.
She very much appreciates Court's reverence for the founders of the Bible Christian Connexion.
Tom Piper of the Milbay Dye works, who was formerly a servant at Holwell said that he once spent a Sunday with [James Thorne] and heard him pray eleven times and preach three sermons. He also met a class and administered the Lord's Supper.
In a postscript, she recalls that she likes to think of her father as a high spirited farmer's boy, dressed in his fustian suit, who spent the whole night in prayer before preaching his first sermon in his father's house on Christmas morning 1815.
From [William Francis] James in Fisher Street, Malvern, Australia, to [Lewis] Court.
Samuel Way, who looks to James for information about various Church matters, has sent a copy of the letter in which Court asked for various books, photos etc for the proposed permanent Bible Christian Centenary museum. Samuel will no doubt send some at least of the articles which Court asked for, and with the aid of Samuel's Chief Clerk at the Supreme Court, James is sending the following:.
- Six copies of James's book re `Father Hamarck??', which contains a picture of the first Bible Christian Church and Manse in Australia. With regard to James Way's pastorate at Burra there were 320 conversions and he also oversaw the erection of the largest Bible Christian Church in Australia. Burra was incidentally James's first ministerial appointment in Australia from 1884 to 1887. In the Manse at the side of the Church was born his dear son Alfred, who died at the age of twenty. At the time of his death his name was on the preaching plans of three circuits.
- Report of James Way's Jubilee, with a brief sketch of Revd. Samuel Keen, one of the most energetic and successful Bible Christian ministers in Australia - this item should be returned.
Methodist Union in Canada - An abject lesson for Australasian Methodism. This served as an handbook for years and is to be returned after use.
- Copies of Seven Years Pioneer Mission Work in Cardiff and Seven Years in Cardiff and after.
Since writing the above yesterday, many hours have been spent in different ways on the affairs of the Supreme Court over which Samuel Way is presiding. It is Samuel's office which is getting things together for the Centenary Museum. Mention is made of Methodist Union in Canada.
From [William Francis] James in Fisher Street, Malvern, Australia, to [Lewis] Court.
He much appreciated Court's letter of 20th July. The following items also arrived in a separate parcel; Bowler on James Way, the Cardiff fund plan, a handbill announcing opening services in Sevis?? Hall and a pamphlet on union.
There was unfortunately one omission, namely the three letters/pamphlets containing the answers to James's questions concerning Methodist union in Canada. He had hoped that these documents, which James greatly prizes would arrive subsequently, but though several weeks have elapsed they have yet to appear. He trusts that Court will be able to return them after receipt of this letter, especially as he had hoped to have them at hand for the celebration of the Australian Bible Christian centenary. Extracts?? from those letters in the form of a pamphlet were sent to about one thousand ministers in Australasia and served as a handbook for some years.
He was grateful for the souvenir which Court sent. It will be carefully preserved in the museum. He would also be pleased if a copy could be sent to Samuel Way at Montefiore in Adelaide.
Way's devotion to the Church of his father has been invaluable, and he still supports it with all his strength. He is in effect the mainspring of the Australian Bible Christian Centenary celebration, which is to be held between October 9th and 11th 1915, although much of the `slavery' rests with James as the Senior Secretary.
James has read and is preserving reports of the celebration at the Exeter Conference. These will be used to inspire interest in the Australian celebrations.
May God further Court's work and that of Brother Martin in Brighton.
In a postscript, James refers to his superannuation three years before. Despite his retirement, he remains busy with tongue and pen and may produce a volume of reminiscences. What does Court think of the idea?.
From [Joseph Henry] Ashton at Mount Torrens, South Australia, to [Lewis] Court in [Plymouth] England.
He sees from the issue of the U M magazine, which his brother sent, that Court is still in Plymouth. They trust that Court is well and that things are proceeding smoothly in the circumstances. It is terrible to think of the war. His son Jack is en route to Europe as a wireless operator on one of the transport ships. About the time they came to this circuit, Jack went to Sydney and was engaged in office work during the day and attending wireless school four evenings a week. After the outbreak of war there was such a demand for wireless operators, that he sent a wire asking if he could qualify himself and go. By the time this letter reaches Court, Jack should have arrived in England. He is on board the SS Annandale, which is transporting men and horses to the European Theatre. If Jack gets to Plymouth, he will no doubt call on Court.
He would like to thank Mrs Court for writing to him concerning Mr Knapman. He also heard later from Miss Lowie?? Perryman and after Mr Knapman's death and Mary also wrote to him. Mary is with her aunt Mrs Schafer at Strathalbyn. She was a bridesmaid at her cousin's wedding in Riverton last week.
They are very comfortable here. Ashton spent several very happy years in this circuit many years ago [1890-94]. Jack was born here, which is why he bears the name Torrens.
Mrs Ashton and Janie are well. Court will of course have heard of John Thorne's death. Ashton attended the funeral and helped carry him to his grave.
The Chief Justice [Samuel Way] was able to attend the Synod meeting for a short time. He is keeping up tremendously well, considering the circumstances.
In a postscript, he mentions that the enclosed news cutting referring to Jack is taken from The Register, one of the leading Adelaide newspapers. He does not know who sent the item in. Jack can be contacted via the following address; Findler, Anderson & Co., Agents of the Australian Steam Ship Co., Baltic House, 27 Leadenhall Street, London.
From [Joseph Henry] Ashton in Seafield Avenue, Kingswood, South Australia, to [Lewis] Court.
He was very grateful to receive Court's letter concerning Miss Lowie??? Perryman, the German nurse and the Centenary records. Ashton's aunt, widow of the Revd. James Ashton, who was ninety-five on her last birthday, and Ashton's cousins were delighted to read them. Court's book is greatly appreciated in Australia. Mr Tancock?? brought a copy out some time ago, Dr Torr has read it, as has Dr Richards, Revd. John Raymont, W. S. Shapely and others, and all speak very highly of it. Ashton has not yet received it from Mr Hooks but hopes to do very soon.
Revd. [William Henry] Cann the other day asked Ashton if he could have a look at it.
Court referred to the fact that the old Bible Christian families are getting very thin in number in England - it is the same in Australia. A few weeks ago, Revd. [Ernest John] Piper of the Home Missions invited a few of them to lunch, so that they could meet his father Revd. [Thomas] Piper, who is 82 or 83 years old. Those present included the ministers John Raymont, E. Matthen??, [William Henry] Cann and Ashton himself. Ashton's cousin J. G. Ashton was also present. They had a very pleasant time.
Revd. [Octavius] Lake who came out to Australia with [Thomas] Piper has just died in the Methodist Memorial Hospital. Revd. J. H. Neild, ex-President of the Conference, who gave a very beautiful address at the graveside, is to conduct a memorial service in the Draper Memorial Church on Sunday evening. Lake who was a man of outstanding ability, underwent a serious operation a few months ago from which he never recovered. He was about 82 years of age.
It pains Ashton to report that [William Francis] James has a severe mental affliction and has had to be put into a home. James's wife died a few months ago but he does not seem to realise the fact.
Mr J. F. Cox was unable to attend the Conference because of domestic problems. Ashton sympathises deeply with him in the loss of his sons.
Ashton read in the U M magazine that Court had a wonderful tour through Italy.
Taken from the printed proceedings of the Toronto Conference of Canada, containing the names of Methodist ministers who had died in the period 1884 to 1896. Details include the year when their ministry began, place of birth, place of death, date of death and age at death.
From Revd. [John] Kenner at 423 Dufferin Avenue, London, Ontario, Canada, to [Lewis] Court.
He was very pleased to receive Court's letter re C. Backer?? [The rest of this paragraph is very difficult to read].
Court is mistaken in thinking that Kenner has a memoir of [unreadable word]. Kenner attended the Conference at Plymouth in 1855, at which he received his first appointment to the Scilly Isles. At that Conference he remembers Joseph H. [unreadable surname] preaching? At that same Conference the late [Frederick William] Bourne, William [Billy] Bray and a number of others, were received into full connexion.
Brother [Cephas Barker] was also present at Conference. He had a lofty forehead, a keen eye and thick lips. His general aspect was stern and commanding, but children everywhere loved him.
Kenner was unable to attend the Conference of 1856, at which Barker was appointed Superintendent of Ministers at Prince Edward Island, Canada. After nine years there he was sent to Ontario, where in 1871 Kenner made his acquaintance. Barker filled all the offices of the Church and was President of Conference in the year of Kenner's arrival in Canada. He was also editor of two weekly newspapers and one Sunday School instructor, and for ten years was the Treasurer of the Mission and Connexional Funds. During his time as treasurer, the funds were £60,000 in debt. To administer such a fund was a major drain on his time and energy.
Barker had a great capacity for work. Even so, the Church laid too much upon him and he never learned to say no. He possessed a strong constitution but in the long term the pressure was too much for him to bear. On the night of Sunday 14th November 1881 after a hard days work, Barker took some refreshment and retired for the night. He was dead by morning.
Reference is made to Barker's visit to England [in 1880], during which time he was relieved of all Connexional duties. Upon his return to Canada, he assumed the pastorate?? of Horton Street Church in London, Ontario. As far as Kenner knows, Barker had only one child, a daughter by his first wife. She married and moved away from the area. Her present whereabouts are unknown. Barker's widow either disposed of her husband's effects or took them with her to the Isle of Wight from where she originally came. She has since died and the Church has none of his effects from which to glean further information. Revd. [John] Harris succeeded Barker in the editorship of the Bowmanville Observer [of Ontario]. If anyone in Canada could give more information about his predecessor it would be him.
Two years ago, Kenner's wife?? died and he had to dispose of 1200 volumes and many bound volumes of the Connexional Newspaper to various ex-members of the Bible Christian Church [part of the united Canadian Methodist Church since 1884]. Kenner is therefore unable to comply with Court's request to give further details of Barker's visit to England [1880].
[John] Hicks Eynon died in Exeter on March 22nd 1888 at the age of 87, and was buried in the same place.
Court also asked about Kenner himself, which of course is a very familiar subject.
Kenner was born in the parish of Lanest, Cornwall, on June 20th 1836. He was converted? at Bridgetown in Devon in 1854, and became a preacher the following year. His first station was the Scilly Isles. He married in 1861 and in 1871 after finishing a term as Superintendent of the South Wales district moved to Canada. Kenner includes a full list of his home and Canadian Stations and length of service - see Oliver Beckerlegge's U M Ministers and their Circuits (1968). He thus enjoyed forty-four years uninterrupted service as an active minister. He was honoured by his brethren with the office of Conference President in 1875. Kenner also served three years as Conference Secretary, three years as Missions Secretary and eight years as Treasurer of the Connexional Funds.
When Kenner first arrived in Canada about one half of the brethren who had emigrated from England were members of the English Preachers'.
Annuity Society. [The rest of this passage is very difficult to read, but discusses in detail the problems of Connexional finance]. At Kenner's suggestion, the Canadian Conference started their own fund for the benefit of preachers. He also negotiated with [Frederick William] Bourne?? a separation of the funds of the English and Canadian Bible Christian Connexions. Reference is also made to financial negotiations at the time of Canadian union in 1884. In recognition of his services Kenner was presented with a gold watch on 19th June 1883. The watch still keeps good time after thirty-three years.
Kenner was one of five children - three boys and two girls. His oldest sister died in 1855 and was buried with their father in Tregarl? Methodist Cemetery. His youngest sister passed away in the city of [either Manchester, England or more probably Hamilton, Ontario] twelve years ago on January 3rd. All three brothers entered the Bible Christian ministry. Henry came out to Canada in 1861 and was joined by William and John in 1871. The oldest brother was William, who died last September at the age of eighty-six in the city of Peterborough. Henry is still alive at the age of eighty-four and is living in Winnipeg.
Kenner completed sixty years as a minister last July and will celebrate his 81st birthday, if spared, on June 20th next. On June 27th [1914] his wife died. They were happily married for fifty-three years. The April following, his youngest son died suddenly and in the September his eldest brother as before mentioned. This information is personal but Court did ask for it.
On the whole, God has been good to Kenner. People here are very kind and his health is remarkably good. Indeed, for his age he remains very active.
Kenner has never been what is popularly known as a `Revivalist' although he has experienced some manifestations of God's grace in the conversion of sinners. He feels that his ministry has been most successful in the area of `personal appeal'.
The church here is well equipped with a choir of between sixty and seventy. An organ which in the past year has had £15,000 spent on it, adds to the effect.
Kenner has three meals a day provided for him and a daughter who is kindness personified. He keeps himself occupied visiting the sick and ministering to the poor.
He has a voracious appetite for reading and follows John Wesley's advice regarding early rising.
Kenner was converted during the month of March sixty-eight years ago on a Sunday evening after listening to a sermon by a local preacher William Kitto. His text was `The backslider in heart shall be filled with his own wages'. The scene of his conversion was not a church but a hayloft.
He knows from irrefutable evidence that he was called to God's ministry.
One of the assets which Kenner enjoyed when he entered the ministry, was an appreciation of his own ignorance. At the time he knew practically nothing of men or books. He recalls that on his way to take up his first ministerial appointment [Scilly Isles], he noticed on a bookstall in Penzance a book called [unreadable title]. He knew nothing of the author but as it dealt with God, man and redemption, he felt that it would probably be very valuable. You can imagine his surprise therefore, when he discovered that the author's intention was to destroy faith in religious truth. He read the book as well as the writings of Voltaire, Volney??, Bolling?? and Thomas Paine. In 1862, he also studied the works of Bishop [John William] Colenso on the authenticity of the Bible. [The rest of this paragraph is very difficult to read]. Spritual matters are discussed in detail.
Reference is made to Revd. C.Backer??.
During [Frederick William] Bourne's lifetime, Kenner subscribed to the Bible Christian Magazine and Bourne also sent him any interesting snippets of Connexional information. Kenner should really have continued to take the magazine of the United Methodist Church [post-1907] but was not approached to do so, and therefore reached the conclusion that if the new management were not concerned with retaining their old subscribers, then he would let the matter drop. When Brothers [William Blake] Lark and [John] Luke were attending the Ecumenical [Conference], Kenner spoke with Luke and sent him the Canadian denominational [unreadable word] for the preceding twelve months in return for Luke sending him the Minutes of the British Conference Magazine or anything concerning the progress of the United Methodist Church. Luke must have been either forgetful or sick as Kenner has never heard from him.
Kenner will forward the year book with a paragraph written by Kenner's brother Henry.
On the back of the slip which was sent with Court's photograph, is a picture of Revd.[Arthur] Hancock. Kenner was particularly pleased to receive this, as he thinks that he knew Hancock as a child. On occasion, he used to sleep at the house of Hancock's father, who used to be a local preacher of great worth in the Bodmin Circuit. His mother was likewise a model of womanly virtue. She was a refined woman of great culture with a perfect command of herself and her children. [The rest of the paragraph is very difficult to read]. Should Court see Hancock, he should pas on an old man's blessing.
If Court ever succeeds in `deciphering these hieroglyphics, I think I shall have inflicted sufficient penalty on you for writing me: and I presume when I recover my memory and steadiness of hand to try and be a little plainer in my writing…'.
In a postscript he mentions that he has just been reading a work on the work in China by Revd. G.S. Bond?? and he noticed several references to the British missionary Samuel Pollard. Kenner was present at the Portsmouth Conference [1886], which appointed Pollard and [Francis John] Dymond to that work, voting £100 towards the establishment of the scheme. How has the mission prospered? Are those two worthy gentlemen still there? He sees that Pollard has enabled the Bible Society to provide the [montagnard Miao] people with bibles in their own language, which is surely an achievement to be proud of and thankful for.
From [John] Kenner at 423 Dufferin Avenue, London, Ontario, Canada, to Lewis Court in England.
Court's letter of 15th June arrived safely but has long remained unanswered, due to Kenner suffering from ill health. He had taken a trip to the town of Hamilton where his second son is in business. He had also arranged to visit his eldest daughter, wife of a Methodist minister Revd. S.J. Thompson and had hoped to meet his brother Henry in Winnipeg. On the way back from Hamilton, he arrived in Stratford where his eldest son has been [unrea word] in business for some years. A telegram reached Kenner there, informing him of Henry's death, news which completely knocked him out. He resolved that the three thousand mile journey would be too much for him to bear, as he has now passed his eightieth year. Kenner's daughter is currently staying with him and he has again recovered his health.
He appreciates what Court had to say about salaries and the cost of living. Kenner raised nine children, six of whom survived their childhood. [The rest of the passage is very difficult to read]. At the time when Kenner entered the ministry, he received £10 for the first year and £12 thereafter. His salary at the time of his marriage [1861] was £30, which rose to £36. In 1871 he came to Canada with his eldest brother [William] - their other brother [Henry] had already been preaching here for ten years. The salary in Canada was much improved, with additional money for each child. At the time when he was stationed in London [England] in 1860-61, he had published a book which went to a second edition `and that gave me a financial start'. In Canada interest rates are much higher than in England and this allowed him to amass sufficient savings to look after himself in old age. [The rest of the passage is difficult to read, but describes how one can make money by growing wheat and transporting it by rail to the coast for onward movement by sea].
He can sympathise with Court's comments regarding the terrible effects of the war on the Church. There are over one hundred young men from Kenner's congregation currently serving overseas, and yet more have been asked for.
`Lee Interest' was established while Kenner was stationed in London [England], and he became a trustee. The whole fraternity with the exception of Kenner has now died off, and a little while ago Kenner had to sign a document `to make a legal transfer. Mrs James Moore and Mr Haywood were among the leading men then?? 1840s. Both I expect joined the majority we need' [The rest of this passage is very difficult to read].
With regard to the Missionary Society, Kenner offered a contribution on condition that £20?? be used to carry on the work that Samuel Pollard's death left unfinished. Kenner's neighbour?? gets The British Weekly and Kenner has therefore been able to keep up with news of the Churches and their foreign missions. He saw that Court was making a special financial effort to further overseas missions work, but there was no account of the work itself. He would be obliged if Court would send him the names of those missionaries sent to China, firstly to see if the conditions of his donation have been met, and secondly for the last fifteen years Kenner has had a list of names of people for whom he has prayed daily, and he wishes to add the missionaries to his list. Upon receipt of Court's [unreadable word] the [money] draft will be sent in or before January next.
Kenner also saw in The British Weekly an obituary for Revd. [John] Luke, who with [William Blake] Lark was a delegate to the Ecumenical Conference held in [unreadable place-name]. Kenner had a delightful conversation with them.
He has sent Court a copy of The Bowmanville Statesman, which contains a record of the death of [William] Joliffe.
Kenner was surprised to hear from Court that Revd. [William] Rowe is still alive. Kenner always found him to be a `good well-rounded man' and would love to see him and the Isle of Wight again, especially Broad Church where lie the remains of [Paul Mark Robins] Beswitherick, a dear friend of Kenner's. Rowe preceded Kenner as pastor of Gain?? Street Chapel, Swansea.
Brothers [unreadable name], Jehu Martin or Martyn and [unreadable name] were contemporaries of Kenner's brother William at Shebbear College. Kenner was himself acquainted with those good men Matthew Robins and his brother Paul, during the latter's time in Canada. They were both enthusiastic in following John Wesley's advice to "get, save and give all that you can".
Court's book of centenary celebration failed to reach Kenner, but he is grateful for the kind intention.
From [John] Kenner at 423 Dufferin Avenue, London, Ontario, Canada, to [Lewis Court in England].
Court's letter of January 27th arrived safely and gave Kenner much pleasure. Kenner has never seen Court and probably never shall, nevertheless he feels love for Court because of their mutual interests.
As a result of Kenner's writing to the Chesterton Guardian and resulting correspondence, he has discovered the Whereabouts of Cephas Barker's only child. She is a widow and the mother of a family, and is keeping house for her son at 243 Henekin Avenue, Minneapolis, United States. She was married to one Mr J. Bain.
When Court said that he feels that his father knew Kenner, it was probably in fact Kenner's brother Henry, who was appointed to Weare, Somerset in 1855. He is still alive at the age of eighty-four (in March 1916) and has been married twice. He lives in Winnipeg. His second wife passed away?? suddenly about two years ago here in London.
Kenner would welcome the opportunity to read Court's appreciation of Cephas Barker when it appears.
He was grateful to receive the copy of the periodical containing Court's poetic appreciation of Revd. [William Bruce??] Robertson. Kenner showed it to his partner Revd. Flanders?? and he was very impressed by it. Robertson was a great and good man, although he remembers about fifty years ago that Dr [unreadable name] was highly critical of Robertson's poetry.
The paragraph relating to Court's personality was very informative.
Kenner returned to England for a visit in 1884. He travelled through Cornwall to the Scilly Isles, where he found that much had changed [since Kenner's appointment there]. In 1855 the main commodity?? on the islands had been potatoes, which were then superseded by flowers. Most of the old peoples [who Kenner had known] had died and many of the younger ones also. On St Martin's the most prominent `Elect Lady' of the church had been the widow of William Gilesne. On the occasion of Kenner's return in 1884 she was on her death-bed, but was able to welcome Kenner as if he was her son.
He landed on St Mary's on a Saturday afternoon and proceeded to St Agnes, where he had lodgings with a widow Delias Legg. Kenner needed no supper as he had eaten tea at Brother Stopper's at St Mary's. He was told that the preachers went out for their food [the rest of the sentence is unreadable]. It was very trying but Kenner was far from home and therefore had no choice but to accept it.
On the sabbath his station was with Uncle Amor Hicks, a grand old man and at one time a convicted smuggler. Kenner heard Hicks tell of how a fixed light was used to lure ships onto the rocks, and that on one Sunday morning while service was being conducted by an English parson??, someone `who believed in watching more than praying having discovered a vessel on the rocks, came to the church door and made the announcement - the audience did not wait for the benediction…while the clergyman called someone to assist him [unreadable phrase] so that he might accompany the congregation'. Kenner was treated very kindly by Hicks, his wife and daughter Mary Anne.
On Monday, Kenner was told that his place of lodging would be with John Hicks. Kenner had preached twice on the sabbath. His stay with the Hicks family is described in detail, including an argument between Hicks and his wife regarding Kenner's breakfast.
At that time wheat was not grown on the islands and the native bread was made from rye, which is sweet to taste and dark in colour. Kenner had rye bread and cream to eat.
The homes of the islanders were mostly very humble but clean.`Their hearts were warm and their kindness abundant. Their education in advance of the mainland for every child was taught in school and had a fair start in life'. Kenner liked the people when he got to know them and has very happy memories of his time on the islands.
Kenner's colleagues in the Scilly Isles were William Dennis and Albert McDonald. The Scillies was Kenner's first appointment and Swansea his last in Britain [1871]. His chapel in Swansea was Oxford Street. He supposes that by now the Jarman family have died or perhaps moved away. Upon leaving Swansea he was presented with a beautiful copy of the New Testament.
He is sending Court a few lines of rhyme, which these musings on his past have brought to mind. They were written during his time in London [England] and are dated 23 October 1860.
As Court observed, the war is severely affecting the Church. Seventy young men from Kenner's own congregation have either gone overseas or are preparing to go. What does it all mean? Is England being punished for her sinful dealings with liquor and opium? Is France being punished for the removal of God from her education system? Belgium for her [unreadable word]?, Germany for her `demanding…'? and Canada for her neglect of the teaching of Christianity to her Indian peoples and the spreading among them of the drinking of liquor? It reminds Kenner of a sermon preached sixty-five years ago by [William] Mason in the Launceston Circuit on "Redeeming the time because the days are evil".
Kenner does not think that the Christian nations have yet taken their sins seriously enough. "The social?? evil is rampant', the liquor trade seems to strong for even the British government to handle. Are not factories working on the sabbath? and many parades held on the Lord's Day? Spiritual matters are discussed in detail.
Kenner was personally acquainted with Chief Justice Samuel Way and with his father [James]. The latter assisted Kenner during a return visit to the Camelford Circuit in the celebration of missionary anniversaries. The former was present at Exeter in 1860 when Kenner was received into full connexion. The Chief Justice is a man to be admired for despite his prominence in the world, he has not forgotten the faith or church of his father.
Kenner knew [James] Horwill, since he was a contemporary at Shebbear College of Kenner's eldest brother William, who died last September [see reference in an earlier letter to William's death in September 1914 - see 92.109] in Peterborough, Ontario. Kenner also knew William Reed and his father before him - one of the greatest men the Connexion has produced. He was Conference President at Plymouth when Kenner `commenced by the authority of the Church to tramp clay'. [John Herridge] Batt was known to Kenner, as was his father [George] Batt. The latter was disciplined by Conference for marrying contrary to `Connexional rule' and bringing his wife to the Exeter Conference.
Kenner made the acquaintance of Brother [Frederick William] Bourne while in the Callington Circuit, where Kenner was covering for Edwin Arkell who was ill at the time [1853-56].
He has lately been reading a great deal about [Samuel] Pollard. He is sending Court a copy of Christian Guardian, as it contains an appreciation of Pollard by a Canadian missionary.
Kenner thinks that he told Court that he was present at the Portsmouth Conference when Pollard and [Francis John] Dymond were appointed the first Bible Christian missionaries to China [1886]. He has viewed their labours with great interest ever since. Unfortunately as the U M Magazine has not been arriving, he has been unable to keep up to date with their progress. What is the English Conference going to do about the situation in China now that Pollard is dead? Kenner will send £20 to assist with the funding of a replacement. Reference is made to his previous donations to help with the China mission.
Entitled 'Present Thoughts on Past Times', the first line of which is `My mind in a rapture on past scenes would stay'.
Made by Johanna Brooks, who in 1816 witnessed to her conversion in Morwinstowe Parish Church, Cornwall and subsequently joined the Bible Christian Connexion.
Historical notes by Lewis Court.
Eleven Bible Christian class tickets, pasted onto a card.
Containing photographs, prints and other illustrations of people and places prominent in Bible Christian history.
A Song of a Century by Lewis Court. Written to commemorate the centenary of the Bible Christian Connexion.
From the
Attached to the above is a typescript letter from Miss Lois Deacon (Lord Mayor's Secretary at Plymouth), at Highfield, Rockingham Road, Seymour Park, Plymouth, to [Lewis] Court. She is writing to Court at the suggestion of Isaac Foot, Lord Mayor of plymouth, concerning a task which she has undertaken.
She is the great-granddaughter of the early Bible Christian minister William Mason. Since childhood, she has been fascinated by stories of Mason and she has now decided to write his life story. Mr Foot thought that Court may be able to put her in touch with people who have journals, letters and other items of relevance. She would also be interested in material concerning Mason's wife Mary, who was born in 1804 as Mary Hewitt and was also a travelling Bible Christian minister.
As far as Mason himself is concerned, she has a good account of his ministry between 1816 and 1826 but not much else. She knows that he was a champion wrestler in his youth and is fairly sure that he was born near Holsworthy in Devon, either in the village of Bradford or near Sutcombe or possibly Bradworthy. She has however been unable to find an entry in a baptism register. She is very anxious to clear up this point as she wishes to visit his birthplace and gain an idea of what his childhood must have been like. Neither has been able to trace any wrestling records or books which describe the sport, although she is aware that it was the main village recreation at the time.
Unfortunately the Plymouth Reference Library was badly bombed during the war and many books were destroyed.
She has consulted copies of the Arminian Magazine for 1823 to 1827 and the Bible Christian Magazine for 1853 and 1854. She has also seen Frederick William Bourne's The Bible Christians - Their Origin and History and Thorne's biography of William O'Bryan. [Richard] Pyke at Edgehill College [in Bideford] has also kindly sent her a copy his own book on the Bible Christians and last week placed the accompanying item in the Morning News.
The great gaps in William Mason's story are as follows:.
- His birthplace and early life before his conversion.
- Any account of him at the time he succeeded William O'Bryan as President of the Conference in 1828.
- The raising of his and Mary's twelve children. She has no idea of where the family lived or their circuits except that they were in the Launceston Circuit when Mary died in 1853, and that Mason was superannuated at Northlew.
She has been told that many of Mason's papers were destroyed by a fire at the Bible Christian book room.
Deacon has been in touch with Mrs Jewell, a Bible Christian historical enthusiast at Holsworthy and spent three days in the village.
If Court can suggest further lines of enquiry, she would be most grateful.
From Lois Deacon at 10 Upper Knollys Terrace, Alma Road, Plymouth, to Lewis Court.
She was grateful for the loan of the book and the precious letter, both of which she now returns. They were most interesting. As she thinks she has mentioned, the house where she is writing this, is practically on the site of "Mill Pleasant" from which William O'Bryan wrote the letter which she is returning and from where Deacon's ancestors went to their wedding.
As for her great aunt's memoir to her sister Julia Mason, it is sadly a little too full of piety to be informative about domestic matters. She has a feeling that Julia's brain fever may have been brought on by too much hard work after her conversion at an early age - she will not of course mention this in her book.
Finally, one more word about dates. She has looked at the records again and has found that William Mason was appointed to Kingsbrompton with [Mary] Ann Soper and Ann Guest in August 1822, and that according to her journal Mary Hewitt first heard Bible Christian preaching in a cottage in her neighbourhood on October 10th 1822, although she was not in fact converted until the 13th March 1823 when her future husband William Mason was in Monmouth.
She trusts that Court will enjoy his visit to London.
From Lois Deacon at 10 Upper Knollys Terrace, Alma Road, Plymouth, to Lewis Court, c/o Mrs Thompson, 14 Compton Park Villas Road, Plymouth.
It was so pleasant to meet him this morning, if rather unexpected. She forgot to ask for Court's address in Plymouth but was able to trace him through Mrs Hines.
She was very interested to hear of the massive work he is completing for the Bible Christian section of the Methodist Church.
The volume of minutes of Conference 1819-1844 was lent to Deacon by Stephen Quick of Penzance. His loan was in response to [Richard] Pyke's advertisement in the press. She still lacks the following:.
- Issues of the Bible Christian Magazine 1828-29, Mason's presidential year.
- Issue of the Bible Christian Magazine 1868. This contains a memoir to Mason's youngest daughter Julia, and is therefore of great potential interest.
Deacon would return the volumes without delay. She feels that she will then have sufficient material for the book.
She has never been able to trace the originals of William Mason's letters to James Thorne, despite the fact that they are quoted at length by Bible Christian historians like Frederick William Bourne. She thinks that they may have been destroyed in the fire at the Bible Christian headquarters or are mixed up in the jumble that is the modern book room.
It was Dr Leslie Church, Literary Editor of the M R, who suggested that Lawrence Spear could possibly undertake a search in the book room. Unfortunately he has never found time to do so. The records are not listed or indexed.
She has not found time to visit the book room herself as she gets very little annual leave.
Searching through her grandmother Ann Deacon's attic, she found a picture which intrigued her greatly. It is a picture on glass of a strong woman's face aged about forty-seven and she has a feeling that it may be of Mary Hewitt, wife of William Mason. She has consulted expert opinion concerning the age of the portrait and the probable date would fit the particulars of Hewitt. The problem is that the woman in the picture has flowers in her bonnet and every record which Deacon has consulted, agree that Hewitt adopted plain dress. She would dearly love to show Court the picture. The subject is very grim looking with great strength of character, and if it is not Mary Hewitt, she has no idea of who it can be.
She would be grateful if Court could find time to discuss with her the points raised in this letter. She could come at any time convenient to Court and will bring the picture with her.
Summary of events in the lives of William Mason and his wife Mary [Hewitt]. Complied by Lois Deacon.
Series of letters from Aileen Mills at 171 Queens Road, Buckland, Portsmouth, to Lewis Court, asking for information concerning Billy Bray for a radio programme about his life and ministry.
From Mrs Daisy Pepperell at 93 St. Albans Road, Westbury Park, Bristol, to an unnamed correspondent [Dr John Bowmer of the Methodist Archives] via John Wesley's Chapel, City Road, London.
She has enclosed for deposit in the Archives the first letter written in the Miao script [a montagnard people of China] invented by Samuel Pollard.
Her father Charles Trelease attended the Conference of 1886 which appointed Samuel Pollard and Francis Dymond as the first Bible Christian missionaries in China. Pollard begged those present to remember them in their prayers. Trelease never forgot and always took a keen interest in the activities of the China mission.
When Pollard came home on furlough, he used to stay at their family home. He once created a sensation by walking through the streets of Bridgewater in Chinese dress, and inviting those he met to a missionary meeting in Polden Street.
In later years they were thrilled by Pollard's reports of his work among the Miao and Nosu tribes. During what proved to be his last home furlough, the Trelease family travelled from Bridgewater to Taunton to meet him. As they talked with Pollard over the schoolroom tea table, the missionary expressed his surprise that they had travelled so far (12 miles) to see him. He then removed the enclosed Miao script from his pocket and presented it to Daisy. She has treasured it ever since and is now sending it to the Archives for safe-keeping.
The news of Pollard's death [September 1915] came as a shock to many. Daisy's father was very upset.
Written in Miao script by Samuel Pollard - see MAW Ms 94.2.1.
From a Missionary magazine, containing a facsimile and translation of a Miao letter to Rev. S. Pollard.
From a Missionary magazine, containing the obituary of the missionary Francis John Dymond.
On the reverse is an article entitled My Christmas Day at Hmoa Chin Chiou by Rev. [William Harrison] Hudspeth.
Addressed to `The Friends of the Missions'.
At a meeting of the Bible Christian Missionary Committee held on April 13th 1831, at Beeny near Boscastle in Cornwall, it was resolved that as invitations to send missionaries to America have been received from several people who have emigrated there, two or three missionaries should be appointed, provided that Conference gives its approval. Several preachers have already offered themselves for the work.
Donations to help with the cost of this venture, should be paid to Circuit Superintendents for forwarding to the treasurer Andrew Cory at Zion Chapel, St Austell, Cornwall or to Samuel Thorne, the Connexional printer at Prospect Place, Shebbear, Devon.
Signed by the treasurer Andrew Cory and the secretary John Hicks Eynon.
From James Thorne at the Book Room to an unidentified `brother'.
With a view to circulating such a useful work and to promote sales from the Book Room, he has decided that Dr Adam Clarke's six volume Bible Commentary should be sold for £2.15.
He would be grateful if his correspondent could interest himself in the Exeter Chapel case, as it will hopefully prove to be a blessing to the Connexion.
Thorne has no missionary boxes. It is very inconvenient for the Treasurer and Home Secretary to be at such a distance, as it means that Thorne must act on his own responsibility with regard to matters like this.
The President of Conference [Francis Martin] has asked if any of the ministers know of a young man `likely to be taken out to travel, and who would go till next Conference as an hired Local Preacher, that they should inform him immediately'. The President's address from 5th February to 13th February will be 34 Mount Durand, Guernsey, and from 13th February to 19th February it will be 4 Clear View Street, St Hellier's, Jersey.
Issued by James Thorne, regarding sale of books from the book room.
Of several houses along a street in the village of Shebbear.
Of the gravestone of Revd. [Thomas Grills] Vanstone.
Black and white photograph (cutting from a magazine), showing Eden Cottage, where Bible Christian services were held in the early years of the Connexion.
Black and white photograph showing the interior of Bodmin Street Chapel, Holsworthy.
Black and white photograph showing the interior of Greenbank Chapel, Plymouth.
Black and white photograph showing a `Cromwellian farmhouse' [also used as a chapel??], Throwleigh.
Black and white photograph showing the front exterior of Providence Chapel, Throwleigh.
Black and white photograph showing an unidentified West Country?? farmhouse.
Black and white portrait photograph showing a group of `Bible Christian' [United Methodist Church] laymen.
Identified as follows; J. Jose, W. Botheras [in the uniform of an army officer], [William] Court, W. Spencer, B. Ashton, T. Mantle, G.P.Dymond, W. Vanstone, Simon Rattenbury, W. Nichols, W. Tamlyn, J. Morris,? Tresise.
Black and white photograph showing William O'Bryan's pocket bible and its leather case, made by Catherine O'Bryan.
Black and white photograph of the license, issued by the Bishop of Bath and Wells admitting Revd. [Hallifield Cosgayne] O'Donnoghue to the office of Deacon within the Anglican Church.
Black and white illustration of a sketch of Lostwithiel Church font, as drawn by [Lewis Court].
Black and white portrait photograph of Revd. Thomas Grills Vanstone.
Black and white photograph of the stained glass window in Bristol Road Chapel, Brighton, Sussex, erected in memory of Frank Slogrove, died 21 December 1922.
Black and white group portrait photograph of the ministerial and lay members of the Exmoor [Kingsbrompton circuit] Bible Christian [United Methodist] quarterly meeting.
Black and white group portrait photograph of the delegates to the Bible Christian Conference, held at Exeter.
Black and white group portrait photograph of the ministerial and lay members of a Dartmoor Quarterly meeting (Chagford Circuit).
Black and white group portrait photograph of important ministerial and lay Bible Christians.
The common factor would appear to be a link with Shebbear College. They are named as follows; [William Blake] Lark, Adelaide Bourne, [Frederick William] Bourne, Samuel Way, William Vaughan, [John Herridge] Batt, [William] Luke, William Lee, [Herbert William] Horwill, G.T. Humphries and Thomas Ruddle.
Black and white photograph of the first temperance hall built in West Somerset.
The hall was built for the village of Roadwater at the request of the local preachers of the Bible Christian Connexion. It was later used as the Methodist Church hall.
Black and white group portrait photograph of delegates to the Bible Christian Conference, held in London.
Many of the delegates are identified as follows; [James] Barlett, [Mark] Brokenshire, [William] Drew, [Richard] Westington, [John] Gammon, [Francis] Martin, [John] Hicks, [Thomas] Wooldridge, [John] Dymond, ?Mannard?, Joseph Yeo, [William James] Hocking, [John Cleverdon] Honey, ? Hobbs, [Matthew] Robins, [Thomas Whale] Garland, [Samuel] Jory, [Richard Prestridge] Tabb, [John] Cottle, [William] Hawken, [William Bryan] Reed, ?Cogwin?, [William] Rowe, [William] Gilbert, [Isaac Balkwill] Vanstone, [John] Tremelling, [James] Horwill, [Frederick William] Bourne, [James Damrel] Balkwill, [James Taylor] Daniel, [Alexander] Trengove, [Daniel] Murley, [Daniel] Sturgess, [John] Finch, [Thomas Eplett] Mundy, [William Williams] Andrews, [John] Jeffrey, [James] Woolcock, [John Herridge] Batt, [John] Botheras, [John Osborne] Keen, [Lewis or Thomas] Braund, [Samuel] Pollard, [James Cole] Bassett and [William Francis] James.
Black and white copy portrait photograph of William and Catherine O'Bryan.
The original was on glass and was presented to Revd. John Thorne on the occasion of his visit to New York in 1875.
Annotations by Samuel Way.
Black and white portrait photograph of the artist James Clarke Hook, grandson of Dr Adam Clarke and a regular attender at Bible Christian worship.
By Lewis Court of the manse of the Chagford Circuit, the gift of grandson of William O'Bryan.
Black and white photograph of the William O'Bryan's pocket bible, open at the title page.
Of all Canadian Methodist ministers, who had died since the foundation of the Church in Canada.
The details given are the names, age at death, place of birth, place and date of death and number of years in the active ministry.
Of the following Presidents and other notable ministers of the Canadian Bible Christian Conference:.
Black and white photograph of King Street, Bowmanville, Ontario, Canada.
Two black and white photographs of Cephas Barker's grave in Canada.
Of obituaries of prominent Bible Christians, extracted from local newspapers.
Containing portrait photographs and engravings of the following Bible Christians:.
Containing portrait photographs and engravings of the following Bible Christians:.
From William O'Bryan at Millpleasant near Plymouth, to his daughter Mary O'Bryan on Guernsey, Channel Isles.
Mary will no doubt be surprised to learn that her mother [Catherine] has gone as a missionary to the Isle of Wight. Mary Toms had written to ask for another preacher to be sent to assist her. They considered Sarah Cory and Catherine went to Kingston to speak to her. Cory accompanied Catherine back to Plymouth and on the road they met Mr Friend, who appeared very unwilling for Sarah to go and she herself was undecided. Just before retiring for the night, the O'Bryans and several friends prayed and then cast lots to decide the issue. The decision was that Sarah should not leave for the Isle of Wight. They then cast lots to see whether Catherine should be sent instead and it was decided that she should.
The steamer left today for Portsmouth at 11am. It is to call at Dartmouth, Torquay, Brixham and Cowes. They hope to be in Portsmouth tonight. Mary's mother is accompanied by Eliza Jew, a young woman of Kingsand who is promising speaker.
They were disappointed when the [ship or stagecoach] Alfred arrived on Saturday with no letter from Mary. They hope to have a long communication from her soon. She could follow her father's example by keeping a daily journal and sending it home. Mary should tell her father of her feelings, prayers, reading and preaching etc. Is she satisfied with her preaching station?.
They hear that [Samuel] Smale or at least one of the male preachers, has been preaching in a field on Guernsey. It was apparently filled with people, but not all reports are necessarily true.
It is rather singular that both a mother and daughter should be missionaries to off-shore islands.
Catherine [O'Bryan's daughter] is almost recovered, after taking a `purging physic'. The doctor attributes her illness to eating fruit.
He trusts that Mary has settled Mrs Sarchet's bill.
O'Bryan is pleased that the child has returned.
The work here remains the same, with only odd ones here and there being added to the ranks of the converted. They should however be thankful for any success. He was at a prayer-meeting at [Plymouth] Dock last night when William the soldier stood up and asked to speak. He said that he had promised the Lord that he would. William had been unable to believe that God had forgiven his sins until lately, when a few days ago he was so filled with joy that he felt assured of forgiveness. He then gave out a verse of scripture and prayed that Mary's ministry might be useful. She is often remembered in their prayers.
She should be very guarded in conversation so that she speaks only of spiritual matters.
O'Bryan would like to hear of her progress at least one a fortnight.
Reference is made to Hester Onchard and Grace Thorne.
Harry Major wrote last week to say that they had enjoyed a good local preachers' meeting. The same day, one of the society dreamt that he had seen thousands of Bryanites going through the land blowing trumpets. Some said that there was no need for such a noise, but then a voice said that if all had been faithful, hundreds who were now in hell would have been saved.
He sent the letter to the Wesleyan preacher [Henry] Taft yesterday, as he wished to find out first if his appointment at Malton was permanent.
In a postscript, he mentions that [Henry] Taft is not the same person as Zachariah Taft.
Mrs Eastcott and her husband have moved to Dartmouth, and have offered to provide hospitality for preachers.
From James Thorne at Millpleasant, Plymouth, to Mary O'Bryan.
Mary's letter and that of her father [William] of the 7th inst. arrived safely this morning. Thorne had intended to write to her and include the letter in the parcel of magazines, but as Mary has written so frankly to him, he changed his mind.
Spiritual matters are discussed in detail, together with the question of Mary's usefulness in the work and that of female preachers in general.
Manuscript copy [by Lewis Court] of extracts from the autobiography of [Richard Prestridge] Tabb, which was written by Tabb at the age of seventy-five in 1877.
From Samuel James Way at Montefiore, North Adelaide, Australia to [Lewis] Court.
23 May 1915.
He enjoyed very much the enclosures in Court's last letter. The souvenir of the `semi-jubilee' of Greenbank United Methodist Church was most inspiring. He wishes that he had been aware of its contents when he was visiting Plymouth in 1891. Many memories are awakened by the preachers-Hugh Price Hughes, [Frederick William] Bourne, [Alexander] Trengove, [John Cleverdon] Honey, [John] Luke, [Arthur] Hancock and [John] Dymond.
He has been wondering where the Bible Christian museum should be located. Shebbear would be the most appropriate place, followed by Bideford, Plymouth and Exeter.
The "Bane of Britain" is not the most inspiring theme for a poet, but Court has done very well. "In Time of War" is a particularly fine poem.
Way was very pleased to receive Court's portrait and the photograph of Greenbank Church. He thinks that the drawing of the South Doorway of Llandaff Cathedral also originated with Court. If Way ever visits England, he will be sure to visit that cathedral.
He saw Miss [Katherine] Thorne the day before yesterday. She is very enthusiastic about the Bible Christian centenary and has drafted the letter which Court asked her to write.
Way has written to Dr Richards and [William Francis] James asking them to become Joint Secretaries of the local committee. He has also written to the President of Conference [Octavius?] Lake and had a long talk with James Ashton yesterday. All things considered, he is hopeful that they will have enough for a reasonable consignment [of exhibits].
[Richard] Pyke's circular will be a very useful guide for the Australians in their celebrations, while [William Henry] Cann is delighted that the first celebration is to be in Exeter where he was received into full Connexion.
3 June 1915.
By this mail, Court will receive the following.
- Some photographs from Dr Richards, most of which he would like to have returned to him.
- A packet of documents from [William Francis] James, some of which he would like to have returned, particularly the two old Cardiff preaching plans. In this packet is a copy of the report of the breakfast given to Way's father [James] upon reaching his ministerial jubilee in 1876.
- From Way himself is an enlarged portrait of John Thorne and some small copies of the same. A large portrait of Miss Thorne and one of Mr and Miss [Katherine] Thorne and Way. Two portraits of Way, one from 1891 and the other from July 1914. A photograph of a bronze medallion of [James Way] executed on 17th June 1904, the occasion of his eightieth birthday [in reality the centenary of his birth]. A visiting card of James and Catherine Thorne, which he does not think has ever has been published. A copy portrait of William and Catherine O'Bryan, which was given to John Thorne in 1875, and a [photograph] of James and Jane Way, and one of John Thorne and Way himself taken during a walking tour in Cornwall in 1869.
He has also enclosed a letter to Court from Miss [Katherine] Thorne. She had intended to copy it, but there was insufficient time. She passed her eighty-eighth birthday in November last.
Given to Lewis Court by [Alfred] Evans.
Of Samuel and Emmie Pollard in Chinese dress, with their infant child.
Sent by Harry Parsons and his wife in China to relations in England, inscribed `Tong Chuan, Yunnan. Seasons' greetings, 1915'.
The front of the card consists of a photograph of a montagnard Miao woman and children with the daughter of the Parsons family.
Of [Thomas Grills] Vanstone and [Samuel Thomas] Thorne, first Bible Christian missionaries to China.
Of [Thomas Grills] Vanstone and [Samuel Thomas] Thorne, in Chinese dress.
Of the missionary Francis John Dymond.
Of the missionary [Clement Noble] Mylne.
Of the missionaries Alfred and Mrs Evans in Chinese dress.
Of Samuel Pollard in Chinese dress suitable for venturing out in a storm.
Of Samuel Pollard in Chinese and European dress.
Of the missionaries Alfred and Mrs Evans in Chinese dress.
Early print of an extract of the gospel in the Miao script, as invented by the missionary Samuel Pollard.
Donated by Mr Roger F. S. Thorne for preservation within the Court Collection of Bible Christian Records, March 1995 (MA 9186).
Xerox copy circular letter from Frederick [Leach] Buxton at `Memorial House', Cock Road, Kingswood, Bristol, to ex-Bible Christian ministers.
There is not the slightest desire in this letter to perpetuate the early divisions within Methodism for much happiness has been found in the larger fellowship, but the former Bible Christians cannot forget or wish to forget the Church in which they were raised.
As Richard Pyke stated in his book The Golden Chain, the Bible Christians were not the product of a dispute within another Church but rather `grew up through an outpouring of the Spirit of God…'.
John Wesley's chapel in London and the Bristol New Room etc are revered by the Bible Christians, but Shebbear has a special place in their affections.
Many happy memories will be revived on Thursday 3rd November [1949] at the Methodist Publishing House, when Lewis Court will present to the Methodist Church his collection of Bible Christian memorabilia and manuscripts.
It was last years re-union of ex-Bible Christians that the proposal was put forward and in the last fifteen months, Court has spent much time in arranging his collection for deposit.
Frank Cumbers has kindly consented to provide accommodation for the collection and to make it available for those wishing to consult it.
Charles Stedeford, the oldest surviving Bible Christian minister, has agreed to preside over the events of the day.
Enclosed with the above is an Order of Proceedings and a list of the material to be deposited.