GAMBLING IN CHURCH.

Wairarapa Daily Times, Volume X, Issue 3329, 8 October 1889, Page 3

GAMBLING IN CHURCH.

Gambling in church is a diversion that few would advocate or oxousc, but, incredible as it may seem, ut species of guroblingis annuully carried on in tht littlo parish of St Ira, Ii Bccms that some two centuries ago an eccentric person left in trust to the / vicar and churchwardens an orchard, V tho rent of which was to be dovoted to the purchaso of bibles. So far, so good. But the pious bencfector further provided that tho bibles should be raffled for with dice in tho church, and this extraordinary ceremony was duly carried out on Whit Tuesday just. After a short form of ivening prayer, the Vicar dcliveicd an address Jte()ing thoso present they must look what was to take place reverently. He >vas sorry they had to observe tho custom in a place sanctified to tho service of god; but it bad b°.m observed for 200 years. With this lame excuse the proceedings began. A table covered with ut whito cloth was brought forward, and some half-dozens boys and girls came up as their names were called, and throw the dice, which were provided for the occasion. Three throws each was tho rule, and those who threw the highest number won tho Bibles. The ceremouy closed with a hyuin And the Benediction, A non • conformist writer, indignant at the proceeding!), writes to say he would like to know if a church is not a public place within tbo meaning ot the Gaming Acts. If so, byo Goorgo IV c 83, . tho Vicar would be liabln lo he as a rogue and a vagabond. Tunbridgo Wells Advertiser.