IT was said of one of old, “He loveth our nation, and he hath built us a
synagogue.” It is no less a pleasure than a duty to recognize genuine
patriotism; and wherever it exists in its highest character, it is
associated with zeal for the extension of the Church of God
commensurately with the nation it loves. Although, Sir, your habitual
modesty would not allow you to invite the commendation, I cannot forbear
according it to you, that by the blessing and providence of God you have
realized the ideal. Having contributed largely by honourable enterprise
to the extension of the suburbs themselves, you have been mindful of the
spiritual interests of the population. Two handsome churches—St. Paul’s,
Onslow Square, and St. Peter’s, Onslow Gardens—are due to your Christian
thoughtfulness and generosity. Some men can only project such works, and
leave others to execute and pay for them; but you, Sir, have been endowed
with the will and the power to do all these yourself; and you _have_ done
them with that unaffected zeal and good will to men, which, as it
commands our admiration, will not fail of the blessing of Heaven. On
various other good works of Christian charity for the education and
improvement of the physical condition of the poor, I need not now dwell.
They are well known to your neighbours, and to all who daily share their
benefits, and will not be forgotten in time to come. For these reasons I
have deemed it appropriate to dedicate to you this work, in the subjects
of which you take so deep and practical an interest. Praying that your
useful life may be long preserved to us an example and blessing to many,
I am, dear Sir,
Yours sincerely,
WM. PEPPERELL.
Charles J. FREAKE, Esq.
* * * * *
THE CHURCHES OF KENSINGTON:
INCLUDING SOUTH KENSINGTON, BROMPTON, AND NOTTING-HILL.