[TO THE EDITOR OF THE "SPECTATOR.1 SIR,—I agree with "A
Tory Parson" in his desire that the Clergy should give their support and sympathy to the "Agricul- tural Union," but do not see the necessity of a distinct missionary order of clergy for that, or any other purpose. That the " Union" suffers from the indiscretion of some of its leaders may be admitted, and in Wiltshire it is seldom that other than Methodist preachers can be induced to address the meetings, one consequence being that the speeches are more of a religious character than prac- tical statements of the grievances subsisting between buyers and sellers of labour.
Nor do I see that much would be gained by a subscription list opened entirely for clergymen who sympathise with the "Union," as many of the clergy who do so have not the means to subscribe.
What the clergy can do effectively is,—to discuss with the masters and men the grievances they have to complain of (thereby making themselves acquainted with the points of the case on either side), from thence forming a definite opinion as to what are the defects to be remedied ; and suggesting the most probable modes of obtaining for the men increased pay and cottage com- forts, and for the masters mordocheerful labour.—I am, Sir, &c., F. Nicnou.s.
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