IN consequence of the failing health of Pastor Playford, overtures were made to me again and again to accept the position of assistant-pastor at Bentham Street Church; but two or three difficulties barred the way to my embracing the offer. In the first place I thought it would be impossible both to continue my services as private secretary to Mr. Angas, and carry on the work of the Church. Then I had scruples about taking a leading part in a Christian Church that did not practise weekly communion, a fortnightly celebration having been customary in Bentham Street. The first obstruction was removed by Mr. Angas consenting to my accepting the office provided I could still render him the service he required; and the second disappeared by the Church unanimously adopting weekly communion. The way having thus been opened up, on January 29, 1867, I was received as a member, and unanimously elected co-pastor. Mr. Playford was able to serve the Church gratuitously, and I was similarly circumstanced, so that the appointment did not involve any additional expenditure. Mr. Playford and I felt it a pleasure to be able to give our services in this way; but as a general rule it may be questioned whether it is the better way, as poor human nature is apt to conclude that that which costs little is of little worth. The Scripture rule is that "the laborer is worthy of his hire"; but as this, like many another good precept, is likely to be abused, by men stipulating for a large amount of remuneration for their services, I felt, like Paul, that I would rather work with my hands, so as to have the blessedness of giving instead of receiving. [335] For several years I had been connected with the Sunday-school, as superintendent and teacher of one of the senior classes; and therefore I was no stranger to the people. A few alterations seemed desirable in the order of worship, but I did not consider it wise or prudent to attempt any radical changes. I succeeded in getting the rules revised, which met with general approval; and then all the work of the Church was carried on without friction or dissension. The only subject upon which there was any real divergence of opinion between Mr. Playford and myself, in the matter of discipline, was that of attendance at weekly communion. At my suggestion the Church had passed a resolution, urging upon members the duty of attending to the breaking of bread, or the Lord's Supper, on the first day of the week, as did the early Christians. Mr. Playford did not approve of this resolution, and in writing to me on the subject gave it as his opinion that it was the ministry of the Word that was more particularly enjoined upon Christians. I felt strongly on this point, and in my reply to Mr. Playford said: "I can assure you that several members of the Church concur with me in this matter, and at the Church meeting I do not think there was one hand held up against the resolution. I should be sorry for it to be known by the members that we are at variance on the subject; and it is furthest from my wish that I should do anything without your concurrence. I would much rather quietly withdraw from the position I occupy than act in any way antagonistic to you; and it would be better for me to do so than to do violence to my conscience in allowing members of the Church with which I am connected to live in habitual disobedience of a positive command of Christ. I must confess that I am not aware of any command for Christians to attend the ministry of the Word, although it may be inferred that when they met to attend to the breaking of bread, they taught and exhorted one another. In Acts xx. 7, it seems that the disciples came together upon the first day of the week to break bread, on which occasion Paul preached or discoursed to them; but the breaking of bread was evidently regarded as the principal object of their meeting together. I shall do nothing in this matter until I hear from you again, or until I see you; and I hope and pray that we may both be guided into a knowledge of the Lord's will on this subject." Pastor Playford, finding that the resolution met with the approval of the Church generally, did not offer any opposition to its provisions being carried out; but he wished that those who did not recognise an obligation to regularly attend the ordinance should not be subjected to any extreme discipline. [336] The work of pastoral visitation devolved mainly upon me, but as I had a horse and trap it was accomplished with comparative ease. In addition to the Lord's-day services there were two weeknight engagements claiming my attention whenever I could be spared--the prayer meeting, and the meeting of the Biblical Association (of which I was vice-president). Mr. Playford and I worked together in perfect harmony, any difference of opinion between us not being of a character to cause any breach of brotherly love and affection. He continued to appoint the preachers for the places depending on Bentham Street for supplies; and in Mr. John Craigie, who had assisted him for years in this work, he had an able and faithful helper. During my first year in the new sphere of labor, I had the privilege and pleasure of baptising several, and receiving them into the Church; and in after years very many more.

      During the following year I had some special work to do in connection with the Baptist Church at Kapunda. Mr. Angas had contributed a large amount towards the erection of the chapel in Hill Street, and for some time after it was opened, having a go-ahead pastor, the Church was in a flourishing state; but after a while the pastor removed, and many of his congregation also left. In this emergency I was requested to look into the financial affairs of the Church, and ascertain what was necessary to reduce the pressure of the heavy burden of debt incurred by much unwarranted expenditure. On reporting the state of affairs to Mr. Angas, he signified his willingness to give what was needed at the time, and then, by obtaining a loan on mortgage, the Church was able for awhile, in its reduced condition, to meet current expenses and obtain the services of another pastor. In the meantime, as there were several candidates for baptism, I was asked to go up and immerse them; a request which I was pleased to comply with. I went to Kapunda on a Saturday, according to arrangement, and on Lord's-day conducted the services, both morning and evening; and also addressed the Sunday-school in the afternoon. In the evening the place was filled in every part, and in the presence of this large congregation I baptised the eight persons who were desirous of obeying the command of the Lord Jesus. My work in connection with this Church did not end here, as some years later it was in financial difficulties again. The interest on the mortgage was not paid regularly as it became due; and the arrears having accumulated, the mortgagee threatened to foreclose. It was reported that if he did so the place was likely to be bought by the Roman Catholics--who had [337] as good a right as anyone else to purchase it if it were brought under the auctioneer's hammer. I was asked to again prosecute enquiries regarding its finances, and found that the Church could not possibly extricate itself without extraneous help. To save the property, its former benefactor paid off the mortgagee, and taking over the mortgage agreed to allow all interest paid to go towards reducing the principal. As the people found it difficult to pay any interest, their friend subsequently "freely forgave them all," and released them of their bond.

      Towards the end of the year I had to undertake another journey to my sister's place at Middleton, near Port Elliot, under painful circumstances. She had given birth to twins, and the event was followed by her serious and fatal illness. A telegram received on November 15 informed us that the doctors who were attending her despaired of saving her life, and I was desired to request Dr. Mayo to go down immediately. Being too late for the mail, the doctor and I started in a buggy at about 7 p.m. The night was dark and wet, and as we drove up Tapley's Hill the doctor said that I must take the reins, as he could not see the road. We proceeded slowly for a few miles, and then found that a fence prevented us from going farther. As the road was undergoing repairs, the traffic was diverted, and this was the cause of our being blocked. I alighted and led the horse till I got him on the right road; and when our position was afterwards seen by daylight, the doctor considered it quite a providential escape, as we had been in danger of being precipitated over an embankment. We arrived at the Bush Inn, Willunga, about 2 a.m., cold, wet, and hungry, and aroused the landlady (Mrs. Rowlands) to let us in. She kindly lit a fire, and I remember Dr. Mayo using the bellows freely to get up a really good one, so that we might dry our clothes and get warm. We sat by the fire for the remainder of the night, and on the arrival of the mail from Port Elliot we were informed that my sister had died while we were on the road. As Dr. Mayo's services were not required, I started with him on the return to Adelaide, but, meeting my brother, who was driving my mother to my sister's, I joined them, leaving the doctor to return alone. After attending my sister's funeral on the Lord's-day, the 17th, my brother drove me, on Monday, the 18th, to Adelaide by way of Willunga, where we changed horses, arriving in the city at about 5 p.m. My sister left eight children, but one of the twins died shortly after its mother. [338] Some time after this I undertook another journey to Middleton--not by any means a serious or sentimental one. My mother, taking with her my son, had paid her usual summer visit to the south; and I was to bring them back. I started at 5 o'clock in the morning with my pony and phaeton, intending to leave these at Strathalbyn, and proceed thence by the tramway. The pony had been accustomed to Adelaide and its suburbs, but did not take kindly to the hills--especially as the vehicle was rather heavy for these steep roads. I tried by gentle means to induce her to quicken her pace, but, if she could have spoken, no doubt it would have been to say that she was doing her very best. Upon reaching the Terminus Hotel, at Strathalbyn, I found that I was too late, by a few minutes, for the tram. Being determined, however, to proceed, even if it involved walking the whole of the way, I enquired of the landlord whether I could be driven to the Finniss (about half-way), and to this he replied affirmatively. On arrival at that place, I commenced my walk, keeping along the tramway till reaching Currency Creek. Here I took to the road, and, as it was nearing nightfall, there was some difficulty in following the route; and especially upon coming to the sand, where a number of tracks crossed and re-crossed. At last I fairly lost my way, and wandered about aimlessly until the sound of a bell rang out. This I knew to be the chapel-bell at Goolwa; and, taking another path, soon found my way to the place where my mother and son were staying. It was feared that something had happened to me, as I should have reached my destination by 6 o'clock, instead of between 9 and 10 o'clock. On leaving Strathalbyn for the return journey, the horse seemed inclined to travel fast; but before the first hill was mounted, she slowed down considerably. When we got to Aldgate, late in the afternoon, she declined to go farther; and we had to stay at the hotel that night. We started for home early next morning, and I was rather late in putting in an appearance at the morning service in Bentham Street--but "better late than never."

      October 31, 1867, was a glad day in Adelaide on account of the public reception of H.R.H. Prince Alfred, Duke of Edinburgh, who had arrived in H.M.S. Galatea. The streets along which the procession was to pass were lined with people, it being estimated that 35,000 persons were present on the occasion. It was a rare thing for a member of the Royal Family to visit Adelaide, and advantage was taken of his presence to get him to take part in as many public functions as possible. During his short stay His Royal Highness laid the foundation-stone of the Victoria Tower [339] of the new General Post Office, and also of the Prince Alfred Wesleyan College. Demonstrations of loyalty were not wanting, such being displayed in a variety of ways, thus manifesting the respect and esteem in which Her Majesty was held in South Australia. On November 21 the Prince left for Melbourne, en route to Sydney. On March 12, 1868, intelligence reached Adelaide of the attempted assassination of Prince Alfred at Clontarf, near Sydney. The would-be assassin was an Irishman named O'Farrell, who was supposed to be a Fenian, or a member of some secret society. On May 3 there was a day of general thanksgiving for the preservation of the Prince and for his recovery to health.

      On February 15, 1869, His Royal Highness Prince Alfred paid a second visit to South Australia, and met with a warm but unofficial reception. On the 18th the Prince performed the ceremony of laying the foundation-stone of the Sailors' Home, Port Adelaide, in the presence of a large concourse of people. This institution was one in which Mr. Angas was much interested, and to give it a start he contributed £400. Thinking that the visit of the Prince might create an interest in the institution, it was arranged that I should go to the Port on the occasion of the laying of the foundation-stone and make an offer of another £400, on condition that a further sum of £400 was contributed during the Prince's visit. This offer was made to the hon. treasurer, Mr. A. S. Neill, who did his best to raise the required £400, and though it took a little longer time than was stipulated for, it was ultimately contributed. Mr. Angas subsequently gave further contributions, as did others, to this deserving object, and in course of time a noble pile of buildings was erected.

      In 1869 I was asked to allow my name to be placed on the committee of the South Australian Female Refuge, a request which I complied with for two or three reasons. The principal one was the interest my mother had taken in rescue and reformatory work for many years; and another was the fact that Mr. Angas had contributed largely to the funds of this institution, and was pleased for me to render any assistance in my power. At this time the Refuge (situated in William Street, Norwood) sadly needed help--not so much of a monetary kind as of individual interest in the work carried on. The committee meetings were poorly attended, sometimes only two or three members being present. Bishop Short (founder), and Mr. G. W. Hawkes (hon. secretary and treasurer), were the two who really did most of the work. On one or two occasions only Mr. Hawkes and myself [340] were in attendance, but still we got through the work: Mr. Hawkes asking me to take the chair, while he (as treasurer) reported on the state of the funds, and (as secretary) took down the minutes. As we were not bound by any rule stipulating the number necessary to form a quorum, the proceedings were valid, but very unsatisfactory. At the annual meeting in 1876, Dean Russell, in the course of an address, endeavored to enlist the sympathy and co-operation of a larger number in the cause, remarking that the principal part of the work was done by Mr. Hussey and one or two others. At this very time we had a committee of ten or twelve nominally, but very few in actual attendance. After a time I suggested that the business should be carried on by an executive committee, chosen out of the general committee, consisting of those who would attend fairly regularly. This plan was adopted, and answered fairly well for a time, but a still better suggestion was made subsequently--namely, that we should have ladies on the committee. This plan succeeded admirably, so that instead of having only three or four gentlemen in attendance, we have frequently ten or twelve ladies and gentlemen present. Those of us who went on from year to year with such a small committee cannot take much credit to ourselves for not taking the ladies into account at an earlier date, especially as the work is one which they are so well able to carry on. For several years we were burdened with a mortgage, the interest on which had to be paid out of the funds raised by annual subscriptions. Mr. Angas kindly relieved us of this trouble by paying off the balance of the mortgage; and even then we were occasionally indebted to our kind treasurer, who advanced what was needed till sufficient was received to repay him. It was more than once suggested that we should apply to the Government for a subsidy; but, out of deference to the wishes of Bishop Short, the founder of the institution, it was decided not to do so. The committee also decided not to receive the totalisator fractions of the racing clubs, as some of the members had conscientious scruples in this matter. For several years past the annual subscriptions and donations have sufficed to meet the current expenses, without seeking Government aid or the above-named fractions.

      Legacies received from time to time enabled the committee, in 1895, to erect new premises and renovate the old building, which was put up between forty and fifty years ago; and that portion recently built is part of a plan which will admit of further addition when necessary funds are provided. The work of the [341] Refuge is carried on in a quiet and unostentatious manner; but from the following figures it will be seen that the labor bestowed has not been in vain. The number admitted and re-admitted from its commencement to the year 1896 was 2,788; of these, 960 were placed in situations, 481 left of their own accord, 93 went to relatives, 27 left to be married, and a large number were sent to the hospital and lying--in home at the Destitute Asylum. The meetings of the committee have been presided over by the following gentlemen for lengthened periods:--Bishop Short, Mr. G. W. Hawkes, Colonel Downes, and Mr. Jas. Scott; and at the present time Canon Andrews is chairman. The general committee consists of both ladies and gentlemen, and the house committee of ladies only. As may be supposed, the practical work of the Institution is under the direction of the ladies, several of whom manifest a lively interest in it. Religious service is conducted on Lord's-days and during the week, by ministers and friends belonging to different denominations.

      On March 1, 1870, the citizens of Adelaide narrowly escaped a serious riot, which was only averted by prompt and decisive measures. The disturbance arose in consequence of the unemployed not obtaining from the Government the rate of pay that they considered they ought to receive on relief work. I was in King William Street at the time, and saw a large gathering of excited men in front of the Government offices. The leaders made a rush for the door leading into the Treasury, which was closed just in time to prevent anyone from entering, and was then barricaded on the inside. As the foot police were powerless to disperse the mob, a message was despatched for the mounted troopers to come immediately to their assistance. Several of these were quickly on the scene, galloping up the street with drawn swords, and as there was a compact crowd on the footpath, the horsemen charged their steeds up and down till they cleared the pavement. The men took to the road, and as there was a quantity of loose metal there, they commenced to stone the police, especially the mounted troopers. It was feared that it would be necessary to read the Riot Act, but the arrest of some of the leaders by the foot constables and the dashing charges of the horse police gradually dispersed the mob without loss of life or serious injury to those who had to restore order. I remember witnessing a scene something similar to the one I have described in September, 1855, the time of the general elections. There was a very warm contest for the district of West Adelaide, and [342] there was a large crowd in Hindley Street, in front of the Exchange Hotel. The Irish element was there in great numbers, and an attack was made upon the balcony of the hotel, where the candidate whom they were opposed to and his friends were located. The authorities, anticipating that there would be a disturbance, gave orders for a body of mounted troopers to be in readiness in the event of their services being required. These were in the lane next to the Blenheim Hotel, out of sight of the crowd in Hindley Street, but ready to act at a moment's notice. As the excitement increased sticks and shillelaghs were freely used, and at this stage the mounted troopers emerged from their hiding place. They galloped some distance down the street, and then turning round, with swords drawn, they urged on their horses right up to the mob. To avoid being trampled on, the excited people quickly made an opening for the chargers to pass through. This performance, backwards and forwards for a few minutes, had the effect of scattering the crowd, many who composed it appearing disappointed at not being allowed to say and do as they pleased.

      In the early part of 1870 I took an active part in election matters, especially in West Torrens, in which district I was then residing. In the House of Assembly a member was required in place of Mr. W. H. Bean, and the candidates were Messrs. P. B. Coglin and J. Pickering. I knew something of Mr. Coglin, but more of Mr. Pickering, who was a shipmate in the Asia in 1839. Not only for this, but for other reasons, I entertained much regard for the latter, and determined to do my best to secure his return. I knew that our side would have to work hard, as there was a large number of Mr. Coglin's countrymen in the district, who would support their man to the utmost of their power. However, we worked with a will, and had the satisfaction of returning our chosen representative by a good majority. On the evening of the day of election things were rather lively at the polling-booth at Hindmarsh; and the supporters of Mr. Pickering, anticipating that trouble might ensue later on, retired early to their homes. The crowd evidently came prepared for a row, and as the friends of the successful candidate could not be found, the disappointed ones had it out amongst themselves.

      The dissolution of the House of Assembly in November, 1871, necessitated another election. In West Torrens, on this occasion, there were three candidates--Messrs. W. H. Bean, J. Pickering, and J. P. Boucaut. I again promised my old friend, Mr. Pickering, that, if he would stand, I would do my best to get [343] him returned; and also corresponded with Mr. Boucaut to ascertain definitely his views in reference to Bible-reading in State schools. From the number of letters which passed between us on this particular subject, he must have concluded that I was either very suspicious or very sceptical. However, I decided to give him second place on my ticket; and then went into the canvassing in right earnest, going from house to house through the district, and was pleased to meet with the promise of a goodly measure of support for the two candidates of my choice. I actually put together the following doggerel in favor of them, and it was printed and circulated:

      Fellow-Electors! Plump for Pickering, but if you give a second vote, let it be for Boucaut.

AN ELECTOR.

      The result of the election was very satisfactory to me and to the many who voted for the two successful candidates. My reference to "place" and "no disgrace" has been brought about in a remarkable manner in the case of Mr. Boucaut, who, as Acting Chief Justice, occupies at the present time the highest position next to the Governor of any man in the Colony. In 1875 I came in contact with Mr. Boucaut as a fellow-candidate for the district of Encounter Bay, a matter which I will notice later on. I did not attend the election meetings, as I felt that the hustings was not the proper place for ministers of religion. I think that, as a general rule, electors do not like to see ministers there; and those ministers who feel it to be their duty to take part in elections can do more good service, it appears to me, in a private and personal manner. Much has been said and written about ministers dealing with politics in the pulpit, and as far as I can ascertain the consensus of opinion is against the intrusion of such [344] subjects in connection with the ministration of the Gospel. Preachers, doubtless, have a perfect right to deal with principles and to uphold righteousness, whether in the Church or in the State, but to deal with politics and politicians is another matter.

      The year 1870 was one of great activity, in various ways, to me, and my strength was frequently taxed to its utmost. At the close of the entries in my diaries for several days I find the words "tired" and "tired and weary." The failing health of Pastor Playford necessitated my taking more services than I did before; and not infrequently, when he intended to be present, I received an intimation at short notice that he must depend upon me to take his place. To these notifications was sometimes added his knowledge of the fact that I was both able and willing to take this extra work. Willing I certainly was, so long as my strength would enable me, to take the part assigned me; but the willingness did not always supply the power necessary. My long readings to Mr. Angas--extending, on one occasion, to at least three hours had the effect of strengthening my voice for public speaking, but I was never guilty of taxing the patience of my hearers with long sermons. In the case of lectures I would occasionally speak for an hour or upwards, but my Lord's-day addresses generally lasted from twenty minutes to half-an hour. In addition to the part taken, morning and evening, in the services of the Church, I taught a very interesting class of young women in the afternoon. I went through the life of Christ, from His birth to His death, and before concluding the series I had the pleasure of seeing eleven out of the twelve decide for Christ; they were then baptized and added to the Church. Several others not attending this class came forward and confessed their faith in the Lord Jesus, and were baptized by His authority. We had a small vestry outside the chapel which was inconvenient for baptisms; and on suggesting the erection of new vestries the funds were soon forthcoming, and the work was done. I was told that a movable partition that I had planned would not answer, but as I felt confident that it would, the doubtful gave way, and ever since--now more than twenty-five years--it has worked well. Divided into two parts, with three or four panels to each on hinges, it can be folded back against the wall, in order to make one room, without any obstruction. These vestries have been useful, not only for baptisms, but for classrooms, and before we had a large room, or hall, for week-night meetings.

      My general work for this busy year consisted in writing letters to the daily papers on social and political matters; and to [345] the Protestant Advocate on Popery. A proposal to lease a portion of the Adelaide Park Lands for racing purposes was strenuously opposed by the Christian portion of the community, and I took an active part in procuring signatures for memorials to the Corporation, praying them not to sanction the leases. We considered that while these lands might properly be used for necessary public purposes, such as hospitals, asylums, markets, etc., it was not advisable that they should be handed over exclusively for racing. As Christians would never think of asking for the parks to be set apart for religious purposes, they failed to see why another section of the people should alienate what was intended for the general benefit of the public. The maintenance of the practice of reading the Bible in the State schools was another subject that engaged my pen at various times, as there seemed a determination on the part of the extreme secularists to have the Bible-reading discontinued, if that end could be attained. The part I took with reference to this subject will be noticed further on.

      Towards the close of the year I had an opportunity for enjoying a trip into the country for two or three days, which provided an agreeable change from the arena of commercial life. I was, however, bent on business rather than pleasure, which made the excursion all the more enjoyable. I suppose it may be ascribed to an active mind, that, unless through necessity, I could not allow time to pass without doing something--and recreation that included no useful work was abhorrent to me. On this occasion Myponga was the destination, and my duty was to report upon the condition of a farm there. This was somewhat out of my line, but it was a change of employment; and I have frequently found a change of labor to afford real recreation. After making a thorough survey and preparing my report, I retired to rest at an early hour, so as to awake in time to catch the mail. I arose at 3 o'clock, and walked to the main road, a distance of two or three miles. The stars were beginning to gradually disappear before the dawn of the summer day, and not a breeze stirred in the tree-tops, but from all around a chorus of harmony rose, as the feathery songsters vied with each other to hail the beauteous morn. The continuous undertone of the cricket, the discordant screech of the cockatoo, and the comical cachinnation of the laughing jackass, combined to lend a charm to the scene. As the monarch of day surmounted the horizon, the music gradually ceased. It needed not to be a student of natural history to appreciate the melody of Nature, and I felt amply rewarded for my early-rising--a practice that I had adopted for many years, [346] but for which I seldom felt myself so abundantly repaid. The sound of the wheels of the mail-coach reminded me that I must leave this rural scene and return to the duties devolving upon me in and near the city. It has been said that "God made the country and man made the town."

      The year 1871, like the previous one, was a year of great activity in various ways as regarded my work; but especially so in reference to the retaining of Bible-reading in our State schools. Knowing that there would be a determined attempt on the part of the Legislature to abolish the practice, those of us who, considered it to be a vital question, affecting the best interests of the Colony, were convinced that we would have a hard battle to fight with the secular party, backed up by the secular press. Some on our side kept up a steady fire in the columns of the daily papers; but we felt that something more should be done in the way of a united demonstration. Accordingly a public meeting was held on October 9, at which there was a large attendance, and some excellent speeches were delivered. A representative committee was appointed to take such steps as might be deemed necessary to secure the continuance of Bible-reading in State schools--a practice against which no valid or substantial reason had been advanced. The following analysis will show in what way the various Churches were represented:--Church of England--Rev. Canon Farr, M.A.; Presbyterian--Revs. J. Davidson, J. Henderson, and J. Lyall; Wesleyan--Revs. W. L. Binks, J. G. Millard, G. W. Patchell, M.A., and Messrs. G. W. Cotton, J. D. Hill, and J. Scott; Congregational--Messrs. W. C. Buik, J. M. Dowie, A. Gore, and G. Phillips; Baptist--Rev. S. Mead, M.A., and Mr. J. Smith; Church of Christ and Christian--Messrs. H. S. Earl, M.A., T. J. Gore, T. Magarey, J. C. Verco, and H. Hussey; Bible Christian--Dr. A. Campbell. Our first work was to get up a monster petition to the Legislature, praying that in any amended Education Act the practice of Bible-reading in State schools, which had worked well in the past, should be continued. One of the main arguments advanced against it was that the Roman Catholics objected to such reading, without their particular dogmas also being taught to their youth. It was not compulsory on their children, or any, to be present during the time of such reading; and it would be an absurd procedure to deprive the many of this because the few objected to it. Bible-reading or no Bible-reading did not then, and would not now, satisfy the Roman Catholic body; and, therefore, this stock argument (?) or reason given is absurd and illogical. The petition [347] presented to the Legislature was signed by upwards of 20,000 persons; and for the time being the practice of Bible-reading was continued.

      My work at Bentham Street had increased somewhat during the year in consequence of Pastor Playford's failing health, which not only necessitated my taking his place more frequently on Lord's-days, but almost the entire week-night services as well. His notes to me would generally intimate that, if able, he would give an address on Lord's-day morning; but that, if unable to attend, he would rely upon me as a substitute. Having for nearly a quarter of a century ministered to the congregation assembling there, he felt a strong desire to take this duty whenever the state of his health would permit. He seemed to have an idea that, if he found himself unable at the last moment to come to town and officiate, I was always ready for such a contingency. My mind having been well-stored with Scripture truth after I became a Christian, and as I possessed a sufficient sense of order to arrange these truths in a connected manner, impromptu addresses did not prove very trying to me. The greatest difficulty I experienced was in the selection of a suitable subject; but when this was decided upon, the rest was comparatively easy of accomplishment. On more than one occasion I have actually changed the subject after ascending the platform; and the favorable comments that followed were proof to me that the change was for the best. After much study of a subject for special occasions (which happened but rarely), I have been more hampered than when speaking without preparation. As all minds are not constituted alike, it would never do for one who required a greater or lesser degree of previous study to adopt my plan. In after years I found that, if I had sufficient faith just to place myself entirely in the Lord's hands, to be used as His mouth-piece, all the help was afforded that I needed; and that the hearers were edified by the simple Scriptural truth presented. At the same time I was conscious of human imperfections in the delivery, leading me to ask the Lord to bless His own Word and pardon any shortcomings in the work--never pretending to possess the power of actual and unerring inspiration.

      As my brother's illness continued to increase, much additional labour was imposed upon me. He was agent for some gentlemen in England, who had lived in the Colony and acquired property here, but who preferred to reside in the mother-country. The violent paroxysms of pain that my brother had to suffer became more and more frequent, and as these attacks baffled the skill of [348] the medical advisers whom he consulted, it appeared that the end was not far distant. Chloroform was administered when the attacks came on till it caused something like delirium tremens, and then recourse was had to the injection of morphia; but both were palliative, not curative. In order that he might not be deprived of his agency business, I promised to give him what assistance I could till the end. I also agreed to continue the agency, after his death, until such time as another agent could be appointed by his constituents, who were quite satisfied with the promise made by me. Between the attacks of his illness he was able to attend to this business, otherwise he would have had to relinquish it during his lifetime. I had not long to wait for what appeared, from a human point of view, inevitable. On November 26, 1872, at the early age of 44, he was released from all his pains, and peacefully fell asleep in Jesus. The following notice of his decease appeared in one of the daily papers:--"We regret to announce the death of Mr. George F. Hussey, which occurred on Tuesday morning, at his residence, North Adelaide, after a long-continued and painful illness. The deceased gentleman, who was an old colonist, having arrived in the Asia in 1839, formerly carried on business as a confectioner in King William Street, but latterly acted as agent for absentee proprietors. He was a man of quiet, unobtrusive character, of sterling integrity, and one who was generally esteemed." The medical men who attended my brother were not able to satisfactorily diagnose his disease, beyond the fact that there was an enlargement of the liver, which made that organ press upon an important part of the nervous system, causing excruciating neuralgic pains. My own non-professional conclusion was that during the time of the exodus to the Victorian gold diggings, being unable to obtain the necessary labor to carry on the extensive business that he had established, he overworked himself. The bad example I set of doing two or three people's work at that trying time was adopted by my brother; but while my work was more fatiguing, his was more laborious. On one occasion he worked for three days and, three nights almost without rest; my record was only about thirty-six hours, or half the time that he labored. Consequent on my brother's death I had between twenty and thirty properties to look after, accounts to keep, remittances to make, including all the correspondence with the proprietors in England. Upon; my recommendation Mr. A. Birrell was appointed in the place of my brother, but nearly twelve months elapsed before I was entirely relieved of this agency. I received grateful acknowledgments [349] of the services rendered by me to these gentlemen in England, and the commission received enabled me to extend my benefactions to those who were in need. It would ill become me to speak of the sums which I expended annually in contributions to those in necessitous circumstances, but I found that besides tendering a few sympathising and encouraging words and offering a little prayer, a small gift of money was always acceptable. The Scriptures teach us that it is hypocritical to say to the naked and hungry "Be ye clothed, and be ye fed," and not to give them what is needful for the purpose.

      During this year I accepted an invitation to become a member of the committee of the Adelaide Benevolent and Strangers' Friend Society; and though my head and hands were already fully occupied, I was pleased to render any assistance in my power to this deserving institution. I made it a rule never to be a "dummy" member of any committee, and if I found it impossible to do the work required I would resign. In course of time I not only attended to the ordinary routine duties, but was occasionally entrusted with the preparation of the annual report, and arranging for the annual meeting; and when some of the Cottage Homes were purchased, I became the nominal owner of them till the society was incorporated. I was also appointed one of the seal-holders of the society, and was only recently relieved of the position, at my own request. Mr. Richard Berry, city missionary, was one of the originators and promoters of the "house scheme" in connection with this society; and the idea of this veteran missioner was to help poor widows and others to secure a home at a nominal rent, that thus aided they might, by their industry, provide for their families, and not become a burden upon the State. Mr. Berry raised the money for these cheap homes by subscriptions from a number of benevolent gentlemen, who for several years contributed to this praiseworthy object. Of late years a large number of Cottage Homes have been erected by means of bequests aggregating tens of thousands of pounds, from those who in their lifetime had "cared for the poor." My Experience with reference to committees has been that "the willing horse has to do the work," or the greater part of it. Some members may be willing but not able, and others may be able and not willing; therefore the work must devolve on those who possess both qualifications. The society just mentioned was one of the oldest in the Colony, and was established--in the first instance to render assistance to immigrants on their arrival, who were frequently without means to provide themselves and their [350] families with shelter and with the necessaries of life. At one period of its career an attempt was made to amalgamate with the Charity Organisation Society, but after a trial it was thought best for the original society to carry on its operations as it had been accustomed to do for many years.

      Another addition to my work in 1872 was the editing of the Protestant Advocate during the six months' imprisonment of Mr. Lewis for libel. I had to take care that while the leading articles were decidedly couched in strong language, they did not expose the writer to similar treatment to that meted to the incarcerated publisher; and I succeeded in keeping out of the meshes of the Romanists. Besides writing leaders, I had to select suitable matter for other parts of the paper; and was also engaged for several weeks in replying to two correspondents who respectively signed their communications "Dublinensis" and "An English Catholic." At that time religious controversy was by no means distasteful to me, and I might even confess to having had a liking for it. The attention I had given to the great Romish controversy, and the knowledge I had gained from history of the sayings and doings of Popery, placed me in a position to deal with some authority with the various phases of the system. While undertaking the general oversight of the Advocate I had the assistance of one or two able anti-Popish writers, and the paper did not appear to fall off in circulation under the new regime. Though the community generally could not be characterised as anti-Popish, I believe there was a feeling that Mr. Lewis had been too harshly dealt with, and that his punishment was greater than he deserved. The Romanists themselves were aware of this feeling, and there was a rumor that the priesthood would even take steps to secure the release of the offender, provided overtures were made to it in this direction. Mr. Lewis, however, would give no countenance to any proposal in favor of such a course; and in this he was to be commended. The excitement connected with Mr. Lewis's incarceration soon subsided, matters settled down to their normal condition, and his release from prison was unattended by any demonstration. An attempt was made to establish a Protestant Association, and I became a member of it; but its aims and objects being mainly political, I did not take much interest in it. A few Orangemen were the leading spirits of this Association, and as it failed to enlist the sympathy and support of Protestants, generally, it soon ceased to be. As if I had not sufficient work already in hand, I took an active part in opposing a monster Transcontinental Railway [351] scheme. Though not unfavorable to the construction of a railway across the continent, I and others regarded the proposal as one for putting some thousands in the pockets of a few persons, without any substantial guarantee of the line being made. The syndicate, or company, modestly asked for a grant of 200,000,000 acres of land, together with a strip four chains wide for a distance of 2,000 miles! The blocks asked for were only 160 miles long by 10 miles wide along the line of route! Someone took the trouble to make a calculation of what the area of the proposed concession really amounted to, and summed it up as "three times the size of Great Britain and Ireland, and all the British Isles thrown in. It was sufficient land to make a belt 12½ miles wide round the globe; and, if it was portioned out, it would give one acre to every family on the face of the earth, taking the usual count of five persons to a family." In 1864 an Act was passed for constructing a railway 200 miles north of Port Augusta on the land-grant system; and, proportionately to the quantity then offered per mile, the amount of land now asked was forty times as much. It was not, however, a question of quantity, but of principle. Had the concession been granted, it would have enabled a few speculators to place the concern before the British public, make a few thousands of pounds each, and then clear out of it--leaving the construction of the railway as far off as ever. The capital of the syndicate was £11,000, of which it was said the enormous sum of £550 had actually been subscribed! At a meeting held in the Town Hall to expose the affair, and to protest against the grant being made, I attended, and for the first time gave an address in that place. I have no recollection of my speech on that occasion, but if it was at all like the letters I wrote to both city and country newspapers (copies of which are in my possession), my protest must have been a pretty strong one. The project only needed to be placed fairly before the public, and the verdict of the country was just what might have been expected--a decided disapproval of such a monstrous scheme of speculation. Suffice it to say, it fell through, and the Colony was spared the disgrace of lending itself to such a questionable transaction. I do not pose as an expert, or judge, on the best way of constructing this Transcontinental Railway; but am of opinion that such a line should be on the land-grant principle, with proper safeguards both for the Colony and for those who might in a bona fide manner invest their capital in such a great undertaking. With all my varied engagements I did not neglect the work in Bentham Street, which, in consequence of Pastor Playford's [352] increasing infirmities, required more and more of my attention. I frequently conducted the morning and the evening service on the Lord's-day, took a senior Bible-class in the afternoon, and presided at the two meetings held during each week. The meetings on the Lord's-day were well attended, and those held during the week as well as they usually were. During the year I again had the privilege of baptising several persons, and besides these a number were added to the Church who had previously attended elsewhere. The subject of the Lord's Second Coming was not overlooked in my ministrations; and Mr. Playford having given prominence to this truth for many years, the people liked to be reminded again and again of this "blessed hope." As the Old Testament and the New are rich in references to this sublime and inspiring subject, no preacher or teacher need ever be at a loss to interest and instruct his hearers while he can expound these Scriptures. In order that this subject should not be overlooked on the one hand, nor occupy too prominent a place on the other, I usually set apart the first Lord's-day in each month for addresses on this particular topic.

      As regards my secretarial duties for Mr. Angas, I continued to give him the portion of my time and attention which he required, and as he did not, after resigning his seat in the Legislative Council, come to town so often, correspondence took the place of personal intercourse. While at Lindsay House, Mr. Angas had the valuable services of Mr. Wm. Clark, his land steward, who had been with him for many years; and these were supplemented with clerical assistance rendered by his own grandson, Mr. J. A. Johnson. To show that Mr. Angas was satisfied with my town work on his behalf, I may quote from a letter received from him, dated July 20, 1872:--"I enclose my cheque for £25, which I wish you to accept as a donation (not salary), as a cheerful expression of my approval of your faithful services, in the discharge of your duty to me in my labors for the cause of God and man. I know that it is on your part a labor of love." In another letter about the same time, Mr. Angas said:--"The sufferings of your dear brother have excited my deep sympathy and prayers for him, that the God of all grace may sustain him in his severe trial; and in due time deliver him from death: and, if not, better far, take him to Himself in heaven, where no pain can be felt. Let us be thankful that our sufferings are so slight compared with your brother's, but still more, may a contemplation of the sufferings of our Blessed Lord, which demanded the strength of the heavenly host to enable Him to endure them, enlarge our love to Christ, when we recollect that not for His [353] sins, but for ours, He suffered! Oh, may this love of Jesus constrain us to serve Him better, and love Him more than we have ever yet done." It appears that Mr. Angas and his secretary were both working at high pressure. In the letter from which I have just quoted, Mr. Angas says:--"I never had a more severe application of mind than in writing the last English letters, of which I posted twelve long and short ones. My bodily powers and mental application, and especially my memory, fail me greatly; so that I must ask the forbearance of my friends. Almost every post brings me begging-letters from all parts." It is worthy of remark that when this was written, Mr. Angas was in his eighty-fourth year. The begging-letters mentioned became so numerous that at my suggestion Mr. Angas procured some printed forms for replying to them, which saved a number from finding their way to the waste-paper basket unanswered. Had the letters been published, they would have afforded some amusement by the diversity of the wants of the applicants, and the various pleas put in for pecuniary assistance.

      At the end of my diary for 1872, I find the following record: "The year closed upon me, leaving me weak and overpowered by work, the weakness being caused by a severe cold, from which I had suffered for several weeks. The increase of work was chiefly in consequence of my brother's death. 'Faint, yet pursuing' must still be my motto, and I must fall back on the promise, 'As thy day, thy strength shall be.' I have many sins to repent of--the enemy, finding me busy, has also been busy. Withal, I am encouraged with the hope of 'resting by-and-by.'" From my experience I conclude that Satan not only finds mischief "for idle hands to do," but obtrudes upon the Christian in the most active walks of life, especially if these very activities can be made to divert the mind from the Word of God and prayer. Then again, if he can thrust in the suggestion that the work in which we are engaged is the Lord's work; and that this work will merit the favor of God whatever dereliction of duty there may be on our part, he will accomplish his object. I remember the case of a gentleman who had the honor of founding one of our large benevolent institutions, and who asked this rather subtle question: "Don't you think, Mr. Hussey, that if a man enjoys life and does good, he is all right?" My reply was, "I suppose you think that 'Charity covers a multitude of sins!"' This reply went home like an arrow, and he asked me, again and again, what I meant by that remark. I answered, "It is simply a quotation, and I leave you to make the application." The subject was not carried [354] beyond this point, but the gentleman manifested a desire to be on amicable terms with me. "Faithful are the wounds of a friend." I commenced the year 1873 very badly--rising early and sitting up till a late hour, a practice which some people might term "burning the candle at both ends." To keep up the regular correspondence with the absentee proprietors in England I had to burn the midnight oil after my many other duties were finished; and though there was no merit in this night work, there was the satisfaction of knowing that I was not negligent. My multifarious work at this time was somewhat as follows:--Services at Bentham Street on Lord's-days and during the week; secretarial work for Mr. Angas, including an extensive correspondence; secretary of Protestant Association; writing articles for Protestant Advocate; schools at Bowden and Norwood and Bible-women to look after; oversight of Hindmarsh Town Mission; assisting "William" with the work at the Bushmen's Club; committee work in connection with the Female Refuge and Benevolent and Strangers' Friends' Society; trustee work in the estate of my late brother, together with the agencies which I had temporarily undertaken; correspondence on Bible-reading in State schools and other public and political movements; and sundry other matters that claimed my time and attention. A little later in the year I added another item to my engagements. The pastors of the Christian Churches who were accustomed in their ministrations to make occasional reference to the second advent of Christ considered that united testimony should be borne to this important truth; and at a meeting held in July to take the necessary steps I agreed to act as secretary. The recommendation I had made as to a successor to my late brother being approved by the absentee proprietors, I was relieved of this agency, which was a great relief to me.

      The next public question which occupied my attention was that relating to the proposed railway to tap the Murray, a proposal which I considered was a gross injustice to Goolwa, Port Elliot, and Victor Harbor. With others I viewed it as a Port Adelaide scheme, the object being to divert the traffic thither, instead of allowing it to go by the natural waterway which the River Murray provided. I remember the apt illustration which Mr. Strangways, a leading politician for many years in the Colony, gave of the absurd and expensive proposal to provide a railway to compete with the navigation of the Murray. He said: "If you were going to tap a cask, would you do so far up, or at the bottom?" The plausible plea put forth was that the wool brought [355] down the river could be shipped to Port Adelaide in much quicker time than if taken to Victor Harbor via the Goolwa. Thus, for the saving of two or three days in transit, the Colony was to be burdened with a heavy debt in constructing a railway which was not likely to pay expenses. I wrote several letters on this subject, which were without result, as the Port Adelaide influence in the Legislature was too strong to prevent the rejection of the scheme. If, instead of wasting the money on the Morgan Railway, the Government had expended it in opening up the mouth of the Murray for the purpose of navigation, and made improvements at Victor Harbor for the shipment of wool and other produce, the river would have become the great highway to the interior of Australia to a much larger extent than it has.

      The question of Bible-reading in State schools continued to occupy my attention and my pen, as the subject was agitated and opposed from time to time. The secular party was determined not to let the matter rest, and was aided in its opposition by a small section of the Christian community which seemed to look upon the practice as State-aid to religion. The matter came before the House of Assembly, and on September 25 Mr. J. H. Angas's clause, providing for Bible-reading in State schools before secular teaching, was carried. Previous to this I had not only written to the press advocating the practice, but had also interviewed the Hon. A. Blyth and other members of Parliament concerning it. Those who saw the vital importance of maintaining it used their best endeavors to save the Colony the disgrace of publicly rejecting the reading of the Bible in State schools; and for a season had the satisfaction of seeing that their labor had not been in vain. The opposition was strong, and bitter in tone, and those Christians who joined in it appeared to be oblivious to the fact that, whilst acting in accordance with their conscientious scruples, they were actually helping the extreme secularists to put away not only the Bible, but any recognition whatever of its Divine Author.

      On July 29, 1873, the first meeting was held in Bentham Street Chapel to arrange for united testimony on the subject of the Second Advent of the Lord Jesus Christ. There were present at this meeting Pastors J. Abbott (in the chair), W. Finlayson, H. Hussey, T. Lees, and T. Playford; and Messrs. T. Baker, J. Gurr, and W. Finlayson. It was arranged that discourses on the Second Coming of Christ should be delivered, morning and evening, on Lord's-day, August 31, at the following places of worship:--Christian Chapel, Bentham Street; Zion Chapel, [356] Pulteney Street; Lindsay Circus, Hindmarsh; George Street Chapel, Stepney; Christian Chapel, Mitcham; and Christian Chapel, Burnside. It is remarkable that, a few days after these services were held, Pastor Thomas Playford, who had for several years given great prominence to the subject of the Second Advent, was taken seriously ill, and was called hence to be with the Lord. In these circumstances, it appeared very appropriate that those of us who were left should unite to bear testimony to this precious, but much-neglected, truth. During the year 1874 a committee was appointed to make the necessary arrangements for holding meetings from time to time to set forth Second Advent truth in its various phases, and I was requested to continue my services as treasurer, secretary, and convener--a work that was, to me, truly a labor of love. The session of September, 1896, was the twenty-third annual gathering of Christians interested in the subject; and these all-day meetings have for years past been largely attended. For the last few years Pastor R. K. Finlayson has filled the office of secretary and convener, and I have acted as treasurer of the funds of the conference.

      In the winter of 1873 Pastor Playford's feebleness indicated that the end was drawing near, but he persisted in planning himself for Bentham Street Chapel on Lord's-day morning, unless he was weaker than usual. In his weekly notes to me he expressed a hope that he would be present, but said that he depended upon me to take his place if he could not. In May he wrote: "I hope your health will remain good under the pressure of your various duties"; and in June he said, "I must trespass on your good nature, and ask you to take both the services in Bentham Street next Sunday." In the two succeeding months he expressed hopes and fears relative to taking his place in the Church; and in September, a few days before his decease, he wrote more hopefully, saying: "Things appear to turn out as well as could be expected, and my health has not declined." In this note he did not put himself down for a service at Bentham Street, but wrote: "I pray God that you may be preserved fully in the counsels of the Almighty." I visited Pastor Playford occasionally during his last illness, and found him cheerful and hopeful, peaceful and trustful. He did not appear to realise that his end was near, but, having no fear of death, he did not seem to trouble as to the issue of his illness. He had for many years entertained the idea that he would not die, but that the Lord Jesus would come and change him, "in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye," from corruptibility to incorruptibility. [357]

[CLACE 335-357]