AN INCIDENT AT THE CHURCH CONGRESS.
[TO THE EDITOR OF TIES "SPECTATOR."] SIR,—A trifling incident occurred at one of the meetings of the Sheffield Church Congress which, as it created some sensation in that solemn assembly, may be interesting to your readers.
One of the speakers, while pleading for the use of the Eucharistic vestments, enforced his appeal by taking a book from his pocket, written by the Bishop of Carlisle, who was sitting on the platform, and quoting therefrom his Lordship's words, that "these vestments ought to be used in every parish church."
This incident created considerable sensation, which was heightened rather than allayed by his Lordship's reply. He admitted the speaker's accuracy, but excused himself by referring to his youth and inexperience when he wrote "The Guide to the Parish Church" (he was then Dean of Ely), and went on to pro- mise an expurgated edition of his book as soon as possible.
Whether his Lordship will be able to justify his change of opinions by stronger reasons than his subsequent elevation to the Episcopate would furnish is now a very interesting question. At any rate, fair-play demands that his defence should be as immediate and as complete as possible.—I am, Sir, &c.,
THOMAS LAYMAN.
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