Mrs Hampson's Soiree.

Thames Star, Volume XII, Issue 3805, 9 March 1881, Page 2

Mrs Hampson's Soiree.

Close on one thousand persons attended the valedictory soiree to Mrs Hampson, held at the Shortlarid Wesleyan Church last evening. So great was the crowd that the schoolroom adjoining had to be called into requisition, and the viands provided by the caterer, Mr James Forgie gave infinite satisfaction. After tea an adjournment took place to the large paddock adjoining MrEeDshaw'sresidence where seals were provided,^ and a large gas star erected Here very soon between 200 und 300 people were assembled, a large proportion being women and children. The scene was highly picturesque, and one not easily forgotten. At seven o'clock, the elevated platform being well filled,"

His Worship the Mayor came forward, and afier a brief, sensible speech, announced that Mr Hemus would say a few words, and would be followed by Mrs Hampson, both of whom were doubtless well known to them. After a hymn by the choir, Mr Hemus addressed the meeting in a happy manner, taking for his text the common advertisement " Wanted —A married couple without encumbrances." He narrated an amusing anecdote of the results of a country man reading that notice, namely, visiting the advertiser with all his childreu, and subsequently being much taken back when he found that "encumbrances" meant children. He then showed some of the encumbrances which often retard the Christian in his progress through life, such as bad temper, the love of alcohol, etc. He spoke strongly against the liquor traffic, advising every Christian to discountenance it. It would be a great work if they could sweep the public-houses out of existence, for then the entire populution would be better and richer. For the sake of example, it was the duty of the Christian to leave the gla«s alone. He announced that Mrs Hampson had brought with her a number of pledge cards, regarding which she would say something. In concluding, he expressed an earnest h< pc that they would become thorough men and women in taking a stand against all that was evil and detrimental. After another hymn—

Mrs Hampson catue forward and expressed her gratification at seeing such a crowd of happy smiliug faces. Her heart burned within her as she thought of how she was on such a short acquaintance beloved on the Thames by so many, and her reception last Wednesday evening told her very plainly how ready they had been to welcome the feeble instrument who had been endeavouring to lead them to the Saviour, >by those who could now join in a song of praise for deliverance from the encumbrances of sin. Aftpr further introductory remarks, she delivered a telling and affecting address from the words " Seep thy heart with all diligence, for out of it comes all the issues of life," giving sound practical advice to Christians, and dwelling at length on the duties of her own sex. She then addressed herself to the temperance question, dwelling on the misery and wretchedness wrought iv Great Britain by drunkeuness. She made a strong appeal to those present to meet her in the schoolroom and sign the pledge, and, in conclusion, said the proapeefc of being shut out for eternity from God, and mingling with fallen spirits, was a terrible thiug. The gospel she preached would leave them better or worse; and she therefore besought all to come, for Jesus in the omnipotence of His Godhead

waited to write the sinner's discharge, and send them home more God-like than ever they were. That they should now open their hearts and take Christ in waa the desire of her heart. " Come to Christ" was her last cry, her final appeal, and if they did accept Him, all would meet in Heaven. She trusted that God would make them all earnest in seeking salvation.

The proceedings terminated with singing, and the pronunciation of the benediction.

Large numbers of those present signed the pledge, and attended the enquirers' meeting afterwards.