The soul of things is Fire-AGNI !

As man hecomes spiritualised, that is, as the soul gains supremacy in his nature, the fire of combustion will be superceded by the fire of the soul, but first artificial fire must be conquered and man set free from its danger and thraldom. Artificial light and heat must soon become the possession of all, even the poorest. It will become a divine gift, without money and without price.

"And God said, Let there be light." But heat had already been at work.

The earth is being gradually subdued to man, and this is effected through the fire of the soul, and it is this inner fire which will in due course supercede the cooking of food. The grand result is accomplished already in the choice products of the earth, the grape, the peach, the strawberry, and other delicious fruits, which are only spoiled by the application of artificial heat to their already perfect condition.

It was the human soul that produced all the food which he now partakes of. Till man came upon earth and psychologised the soil, the atmosphere, and their products, there was no human food, and as man advances in development, so does his food, as produced by the earth and the air, keep pace with him.

The best and most spiritual natures should be engaged in the cultivation of food. The holiest, most refined, and most loving of men and women should be made familiar with the cornfields and the orchards. The true worship of God should take place on the "Barley rigs sae bonnie" and under the fruit-laden trees!

We want not these ultra - scientific chemists with their manurial abominations endowing the Staff of Life with disease, immorality, and pestilence. It is love in the heart, not chemical science in the head and in books, that causes the desert to blossom like the rose and man to rejoice in the goodness of God.

Your preacher wandered forth into the fields, and as he passed a little farm-steading the goodwife shouted to Jack, "Go for the cows; it is nearly milking time." The cows heard her voice, and began to come home of themselves. This dairywoman's stock, though raised from the common breed of the country, was of a superior quality. Her heifers would realise £20 a head when those of her neighbours would only bring £10. She was not skilled in zoology, chemistry, or political economy, but she was a good, loving woman, full of soul and the divine fire of life, and these qualities of hers became incarnated in her stock. The flavour of her cheese and butter was famous in all the barouy. It was the flavour of a good woman. Praise be to God for such!

Adam was a gardener. The myth illustrates the truth set forth in this sermon. He had to improve the products of the earth by the spiritualisation thereof, that a more spiritual creation might dwell on the planet. Adam is wanted nowadays as much as ever.

Your preacher knows a gardener, a lineal descendant of the first gardener, no doubt. He is an extraordinary man. He lays his hands on the sick, and the most painful diseases fly at his touch. He dwells in a beautiful garden, and into his sphere infiltrates the life essences of thousands of rare plants and choice fruits, the excellencies of which are also derived from his own soul. He therefore administers "herbal" remedies in the spiritual form. As he heals and modifies the conditions of sinful and suffering men so he improves the state and development of plants. Wonderful are the new varieties of flowers that spring out from the earth under his management. His soul's ideals become invegetated in floral characters! From a raisin he picks a seed, places it in the earth, and in due course he has a new variety of the vine bearing fruit of surpassing excellence.

Time fails to set forth all the applications of the new truths, not found in the text, but which will be made clear to all as the divine texts of the Book of Life become unfolded by the opening of the eyes of men's own souls. Amen.

-

THE REVOLT AGAINST VACCINATION. FROM MR. W. TEBB'S ADDRESS AT THE PARIS INTERNATIONAL ANTI-VACCINATION CONGRESS.

The revolt against compulsory vaccination is deep, widespread, and increasing. It is no exaggeration to say that the opponents in numbers far outweigh its supporters, which last are mainly confined to a powerful interested medical profession and those who can be influenced by that profession. It has been my opportunity to travel in every part of England, and to inquire among the mechanics, farm labourers, and working classes generally, who form the bulk of the population, and those almost universally condemn vaccination as a baneful and disgusting practice to which they assent only under compulsion; and in justification of their objection they generally refer to the child of some friend, neighbour, or relative, or sometimes their own, who has been maimed for life or killed outright by vaccination. Dr. Warner, of Ryde, says from his own experience

Public

such disasters are often met with in the London hospitals, and he should not believe any medical man who testified to the contrary. A respectable working tradesman in my own parish of St. Pancras, London, told me a few weeks ago, with voice trembling with emotion, that he had lost three children through vaccination, and that he had four children in good health, without blemish, unvaccinated. He begged me not to mention the fact, as the vaccination prosecutions if begun would ruin him. The births of his children were not registered-an expedient adopted by thousands of parents in the metropolis every year in order to escape vaccination prosecutions. opposition to vaccination in some towns is reflected on the Magisterial Bench, and in Leicester, Boston, Bedford, Gloucester, Keighley, and other places, magistrates, although feeling bound to administer the law, take care to impose upon antivaccinators the smallest possible penalties, such as 6d and 1s, and in Ireland large numbers of objectors have been fined only 1d! Some magistrates, like Lord Clifton and Sir J. Clarke Jervoise, have vacated their positions on the bench rather than put such a tyrannous law in force. In the town of Leicester the entire Board of Guardians petitioned the Government to be relieved from the odious task of prosecuting their non-vaccinating fellow-citizens, and only a few weeks ago a memorial was presented by the Guardians of Staleybridge, likewise showing the dangers of vaccination, and asking what credit, if any, is due to vaccination in controlling small-pox,

DOMESTIC LIFE IN JAPAN; THE HINDOO YOGEES. Mr. Editor, I have been reading a book lately "La Japon de nos jour," by Georges Bousquet, in which there is a great deal about domestic life of the Japanese, I should be happy to lend it to your correspondent who wrote about Japan (MEDIUM, February 4) if she reads French.

There is one thing which bears a little on the subject of which she speaks, I will translate it:

"If they have not adopted Polygamy, the Japanese have an institution much like it. The husband can introduce into the house, under the title of servants, one or more "mékaké, according to his rank. The mékaké is in theory a domestic, and, to save the amour propre of the legitimate wife, it is she who often makes this gift to her husband."

on

I am tempted to copy another remark which bears what was said by your Hindoo correspondent in the same issue, who seems to recommend Quietism, which is but a return to monkish asceticism. Speaking of Buddhists, Bousquet says, "Thus glorifying pureness of heart, but condemning active virtue, and passing in silence the charity which it ignores; the moral Buddhist in trying to people the world with ascetics, would only cover it with idlers. It is not with impunity that man dotaches himself from the natural objects of ambition. Without doubt, instinct, stronger than doctrines, would lead him to seek riches and prosperity; but those benefits of a superior order which are but the ornaments of life glory, liberty, the joy of great duties accomplished. What good would their attainment be, if the life which they should embellish is itself but a short time of trial, and if their pursuit must turn us from the grand final result and true wisdom? The believer bends under the weight of existence, waiting for nothingness as a deliverance, and abandons himself without a struggle to fatality."

I have lived in India, Mr. Editor, and I cannot believe in the holiness of the devotees. The Fakirs are ignorant, insolent, and loathsome. The Yogees who are supposed to give themselves up to meditation, are merely ignorant and superstitious men. There may be, there probably are, exceptions, but from a religion whose high morality and spirituality is lost and buried under a mass of degrading superstitions-what holiness can be expected? A man who thinks, or is supposed to think, incessantly of one subject, even the highest, only stultifies himself, he cannot evolve out of his own nature anything which that nature does not contain. The proof is in the result. The Yogees or Suniassis, do nothing to make the people better. They receive gifts, and strengthen the dark superstitions which prevent India from rising. Yours truly, W. G.

SPIRITUALISM IN CORNWALL. Frequent articles on Spiritualism appear in the "Cornubian," a weekly paper published at Redruth. A column is devoted in last week's issue to report of a debate on Spiritualism, before the Young Men's Debating Society. The opener believed in the phenomena, but occupied his time with reciting the usual baseless objections to the subject. Mr. Jenkin, Editor of the "Cornubian," made a most intelligent speech on the true principles of Spiritualism, reading from the MEDIUM and other publications. The Chairman's remarks conclude the report :

"Dr. Hudson, in his very able and instructive review of the whole matter, mentioned the significant fact- nearly all the leading scientists of the day were spiritualists. He unhesitatingly admitted the phenomena, but thought the connection of spirits therewith was not proven; and he advised a suspension of judgment pending a further enquiry."

Mr. Jenkins called upon us when he visited London a few months ago. He is an earnest investigator, and opens his columns freely to the discussion of all progressive subjects.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS,
QUESTION,

Mr. Samuel Sleigh, Walsall, asks:

"Can you, or any of your readers, give a satisfactory reason for the placid smile that comes over the features shortly after death?

"Bishop Thorold says, 'We all know that the majesty of the face in death arises from physical causes.' I am at a loss to understand this, and should be glad of any information on this subject."

ANSWER.

The face does not always present a majestic appearance after death, but in many cases quite the reverse. The statement of the Bishop is vague, and needs explaining. It appears to us more like the doctrine of a Materialist than the judgment of a Spiritualist.

The question may be seen answered in the obituary notice of Mr. Rowley, published this week on another page. The face is the infallible index of the emotions. These, as affecting the face in death, may be either habitual or transitory. Pure and lofty emotions entertained through life will leave their impress on the features at death. A transitory emotion is often experienced by the dying, just after they have lost the power of speech. Their spiritual perceptions having been liberated by the change through which they are passing, they obtain a view of the spiritual realities that await them, and hence the "majesty" of the face which has left on it, as the last expression towards earth, the imprint of an ecstacy which is not mundane but spiritual. Under such circumstances the face looks really more like the man after death than when in fuli health, for then physical influences did much to mar the outward expression of the spirit.

ANNIVERSARY AT WALSALL.

To the Editor.-Dear Sir,-The Walsall Spiritualists' Society has held its anniversary commemorating the opening of the public room for meetings and also the passing over of the local medium, Mr. Daniel Holmes, which was the cause of entering into public work, Mr. F. O. Mathews was staying with us at the time. We held a Spiritualist funeral, and on the following Sunday held a flower service, which caused such a concourse of persons to attend that we resolved to continue Sunday meetings. We have struggled on now for two years, and hope to be able to continue until we have become an established power for truth and progress.

So on the 6th of February our anniversary meetings were commenced with the services of Mr. E. W. Wallis, of Nottingham, who gave us two discourses. Morning-subject, "Conscience the Realm of its Operations, and Value of its Decision." Evening-subject, "Spirits: their Nature, Powers, and State of Existence." Both subjects were very well handled, and gave much satisfaction to very full audiences.

During the week the friends went to work in right earnest, and tastily decorated the room, as February 13 was considered the special day. Mr. R. Harper, of Birmingham, kindly gave his services for an evening lecture on "Somnambulism," which was well attended and well received.

On the Monday evening we held a coffee supper, commencing at eight o'clock with singing and dancing. About half-past nine seventy persons partook of the refreshments provided with hearty relish. after which the amusements of the evening were again resumed, games being instituted for those who did not dance and for the children. Oranges and apples were handed round at intervals, and all ended at a late hour, the friends having much enjoyed themselves.

On Sunday, February 20, Mr. J. J. Morse kindly gave his services for what we call our concluding special services. His morning subject was "Prayer: its Philosophy"; evening subject, "Sinners, Saints, and Saviours." The lectures were well received and much appreciated. In the evening there was a large company, and many hope it will not be long before he pays another visit.

Mrs. Groom, of Birmingham, has kindly consented to give a trance address on Sunday next, February 27, in the evening, when we hope we shall have a large meeting.

THOMAS BLINKHORN, Secretary.

AN URGENT CASE OF NEED.

A widow lady who once occupied a good position in societys but through ill health and advancing years, urgently require, ready money, desires to sell two elegant crystal decanters richly cut, which cost four guineas, once the property of her mother, also half a dozen antique glasses. A reasonable offer will be accepted. The articles will be shown by Mr. Coffin, portmanteau, bag and leather case maker, 13 Kingsgate street, High Holborn, first street East of Southampton Row.

The advertiser is an excellent needlewoman, and would be glad to receive engagements in families to do mending, etc.

WHITWORTH SOCIETY OF SPIRITUALISTS.

The members and friends of this society held a Tea Party and Entertainment in their room Facit on Saturday the 19th. instant. About 130 sat down to tea, the tables being presided,

over by gentlemen who fulfilled their duties satisfactorily. After tea an entertainment was held, presided over by Mr. E. Clegg president, who spoke of the advantage of spiritual culture in a short pithy address. Several friends from surrounding districts gave their experiences as Spiritualists, among whom were Mr. J. Dearden of Littleboro, Mr. J. Sutcliffe, of Rochdale, Mr. Cropper of Smallbridge, Mr. Wood of Oldham, and Mr. Tetlow of Heywood, who also addressed the meeting, under influence; Mr. Whatmough of Rochdale gave a few clairvoyant tests. The proceedings were interspersed with songs, readings, recitations etc, by various friends, among whom we may mention Mrs. and Miss Yarwood of Heywood, Mr. Parsons and Mr. and Mrs. Firth of Rochdale. Several clairvoyants said the surroundings were most beautiful. A very pleasant evening was spent, breaking up shortly after ten o'clock.

Mr. Wood of Oldham will give two addresses on Sunday Feb. 27th, at 2.30. and 6. p.m.

E. CLEGG.

GOSWELL HALL, 290, GOSWELL ROAD.
(Near the "Angel," Islington.)

Last Sunday evening A. T. T. P. gave a very interesting address and read a communication from "Tom Paine." Mr. Howell afterwards gave a very powerful trance address, which seemed to electrify the people.

Next Sunday morning, at 11, conference.

On Sunday evening next, Mr. Morse having kindly offered to give a trance address for the benefit of the funds, the committee request that as many of the friends as possible attend, as funds are urgently required to carry on the meetings.

We thankfully acknowledge one quarter's subscription of 10s. from Mrs. James. W. Towns, Sec.

QUEBEC HALL, 25, GREAT QUEBEC STREET.

On Sunday, Feb. 27, at 7 p-m., Mr. Iver Macdonnell will discourse on The Churches and Females. Seats free; it is needful to be early to secure them. Mr. Macdonnell's words and work are telling arousing the minds of the people. I trust the seed is all falling into good ground.

On Monday Mr. Wilson will read a paper on "Treatment of Animals" at the meeting of Comprehensionists.

Wednesday, March 2, at 8 30 p-m. prompt, Mr. F. O. Matthews will held a clairvoyance seance. The first of this series was a most remarkable one; persons that the medium had never seen before and we e never in the hall until that night, had correct tests. I trust these Licetings will be useful to humanity.

The seance on Saturday at 8 as usual. Mrs. Treadwell, medium. Mr. Hancock is present half an hour previous to speak with strangers. Ad. mission, 6d.

J. M. DALE, Hon. Sec.

LADBROKE HALL, NEAR NOTTING HILL RAILWAY STATION. Last Sunday morning we had an excellent meeting, both in numbers and general feelings of harmony.

In the evening the hall was well filled, though the night was a most wretched one as far as the weather went. Mr. Matthews thanks the friends for their kind attendance and help in his undertaking.

Sunday, Feb. 27, at 11 a-m, meeting for general inquiry and develop. ment of mediumistic powers.

In the evening, at 7, Dr. T. L. Nichols will occupy the platform and relate his experiences in Spiritualism for twenty-five years. All are invited, especially non-Spiriritualists.

11, Torrington Square, W.C.

F. O. MATTHEWS.

LEICESTER.-SILVER STREET LECTURE HALL.

On Sunday, Feb. 20, Mr. E. W. Wallis, of Nottingham, delivered two trance addresses. The attendance in the morning was good; subject, "The Value of the Bible as a Guide to Humanity." In the evening the attendance was much larger to hear the discourse upon "What will be the Influence of Spiritualism upon the Religions of the World." The committee of our society have granted the use of the hall to Mr. Holmes on Thursday next, Feb. 24, at 8 o'clock in the evening to give a short address to the public of Leicester on the persecution he has to suffer on account of Spiritualism. I am sorry to say that he has got nctice to quit his house because of his investigating Spiritualism. He also takes the platform next Sunday to give two lectures, morning and evening, for the benefit of the society. 56, Cranbourne Street, Leicester.

Feb. 21, 1881.

R. WIGHTMAN, Sec.

HYMN No. 9 in the "SPIRITUAL LYRE."

7.7.7.7.

God is love, his mercy brightens

Bliss he wakes & woe he light-ens ;

GERMAN EVENING HYMN.

All the path in which we rove;

dim.

God is wisdom, God is love.

2 Chance and change are busy ever
Man decays and ages move;
But his mercy waneth never;
God is wisdom, God is love.

3 Even the hour that darkest seemeth
Will his changeless goodness prove;
From the mist his brightness streameth;
God is wisdom, God is love.

4 He with earthly cares entwineth
Hope and comfort from above:
Everywhere his glory shineth;
God is wisdom, God is love.

HYMN No. 96 in the "SPIRITUAL LYRE."

DR. LOWELL MASON.

REMARKS ON THE TUNES.

"Melcombe " is introduced at the foot of the column this week; it is well suited to the words printed under it. It is an old tune, well known and easily sung, and is well adapted for elementary study.

The time is easily mastered-four beats to each bar. In each bar there are four minims, three of which appear in the last bar of each line, hence there is an odd one carried over into the succeeding line to make up the bar. This is the reason why a single note precedes the first bar. There are no pauses in it throughout, the one couplet gliding into the following couplet This indicates the in a brisk, energetic manner. spirit in which the tune should be sung. It is eminently a "progressive" melody, and is wedded to bold aggressive words, breathing an irresistible and The singing somewhat defiant mental attitude.

should therefore be done in a somewhat quick, proTo drawl it works nounced, and emphatic manner. mischief. Indeed it would be more in keeping with the movement if it were written in crotchets instead of in minims.

A peculiarity appears in the third line of each verse, where, instead of two minims, one minim, a dot and a crotchet are given as an equivalent. Now, a crotchet is just half the length of a minim, so that the music appears to be half a minim short. This is made up by the dot, which extends the minim one-half, thus making up for the crotchet wanted. In singing, then, instead of making a tone of the same length for each beat, make "chief-" a half longer than the other minims, and "-ly" will be sung quite short-half the length of the usual syllables. Those who overlook this peculiarity and sing along as if all the notes were of the same length, destroy the expression of the tune and jar harshly upon those who sing it properly.

We may give one word of direction to audiences in respect to their conduct in the singing of hymns. We have observed at Doughty Hall, when Miss d'Arcy and Mrs. Ward led the music, that notwithstanding the degree of quickness with which these ladies might play over the tune before the singing began, the audience failed to keep up the same time, but, led by a few rough voices, drawled in a distressing manner, and as a consequence led their leader. An audience should attentively follow the leader while playing over the tune, and catching the time accurately commence singing in accordance therewith. Too often the audience is listlessly looking around while these preliminaries are being performed, and have no more idea of the tune or the wishes of the leader respecting it than if it had not been played over to them. Follow the music, sing as it were to oneself, and the correct details of even a new tune may be readily mastered.

An audience should endeavour to sing in sympathy. Some treble voice or instrument-the female voice is best should lead, and however weak that leading voice may be all other voices should aim at sustaining it-singing in sympathy with it, and not sing it down by noise that has no kindliness towards the leading voice. A musical mind, whatever the quality of the voice may be, always uses it in sympathy with the effect sought for, or does not sing at all. "Silence is golden" compared with the efforts of some who make themselves heard in meetings. Unsympathetic, inharmonious singing creates an unsympathetic, inharmonious feeling in the audience, and those who would give the congregation spirituality and tone are kept away.

HYMN No. 39 (continued).

2 For when the soul lay bound below A heavy yoke of forms and creeds,

And none thy word of truth could know,
O'ergrown with tares and choked with weeds;

3 The monarch's sword, the prelate's pride,
The church's curse, the empires ban,
By one poor monk were all defied,
Who never feared the face of man.

4 Half-battles were the words he said,
Each born of prayer, baptised in tears;
And routed by them, backward fled
The errors of a thousand years.

5 With lifted song and bended knee,
For all thy gifts we praise Thee, Lord,
But chief for those who made us free,
The champions of thy holy word.