15 JULY 1916, Page 17

A SHEPHERD OF THE SHEEP.*

EDWARD LIDDELL is not likely to be forgotten in the North of England for the amazing work ho did as vicar of the Tyneside parish of Jarrow, from 1876 to 1881, when his health broke down. In those six years he made a complete capture of the affections of his sturdy parishioners, and gave an immense lift to a depressed and drunken parish, con taining some of the worst slums in England. Being of a temper that radiated enthusiasm, and a firm believer in the Gospel that he preached ; being also entirely free from personal ambition, and of a social pasitioa that put him above the fear of doing unconventional things, he made his mark and acquired influence among men who are quick to recognize sincerity and respond to kindness. Moreover, he was a Liberal in politics, which helped him to sea the connexioa between religious and social improvement. Mrs. Liddell tells some amusing stories. " Da you know you're lost? " said a Plymouth Brother to a man who from being a heavy drinker had become a churchgoer and communicant ; to which he replied : " Nay—I guess I'm jist getting canny foond." The nervous breakdown that followed the exhausting work at Jarrow was never completely overcome ; though Liddell was able, after a long rest, to take charge of a country parish. Everywhere he settled, he seemed able to inspire the same trust and affection ; and ho met the long suffering of his last twenty years with a courage and patience that kept alive and at the service of his friends all his fine qualities of mind and heart. He was an excellent example of the truth that a saint is a man at his best ; and like the greatest saints, he walgifted with humour, which is a distillation of humanity. He was always a voracious reader ; and in early life, through his friendship with R. IL Hutton, he contributed reviews to the Spectator. Mrs. Liddell tells of a tradition in the family that he had been seen at a railway station, following a porter, and reading by the light of his lantern.