SIR,—I have been much interested in reading the articles and
letters on this subject, although it has struck me that in some cases the ends, even in these days, ought to overlap pretty comfortably ; but what has moved me to write to you is the condescending ignorance displayed by M. D. Hay in your current issue. It is true that the Church of England has depended to an undue extent on the generosity of the past, but present- day difficulties have moved many of the laity to tackle the problem manfully. As to the collections, most of them have to be earmarked for the current expenses of the Church. We wish we could give more away ; the church or parish which confines its giving to its own needs is spiritually sick, if not dying. " Charity begins at home," of which M. D. Hay seems to approve so highly, has in my judgement been responsible for more selfishness, personal and parochial, than any other phrase ever coined.—Yours faithfully,
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