PATERANGI.

Waikato Argus, Volume VII, Issue 468, 1 August 1899, Page 3

PATERANGI.

Mutual Improvement Class.—This very useful institution ia now again under way. Mr R. Kay gave a most interesting sketch ef the life of Henry Ward Beecher, on Thursday last, 27th inst. Mr Jas. Ryburn occupied the chair, about twelve members being present. Mr Kay opened his remarks by saying that when there is any special work to do God raised up man specially to do it. Beecher's writings and sayings against slavery in the United States added greatly to bring about the liberation of the slaves during the late civil war there. Mr Kay, who spoke from notes and occupied the floor for about an hour and a-half, was listened to with tbe greatost pleasure. Beecher's childhood, schooldays and college life were all gone through, then his marriage and early difficulties in connection with his first charge, to the time he received the oall to Brooklyn, after which brighter days followed. A certain amount of histoiy had to be introduced to show the cause of the civil war and Mr Beecher's attitude in regard to slavery, his several visits to England, and the effect his lectures had on public opinion in Europe. I may add that the address gave great enjoyment to all the audience, and at the conclusion Mr Kay was complimented on the Able manner in which he had placed the subject before the class. The business for next night is "The Ladies' Journal," in which each lady is to write an article without signing her name; these aro to be read to the class and then criticised.—(Own Correspondent).