_May 24th._--Within three months after Dr. Ryerson had stated these

facts in regard to Mr. Hume, overwhelming evidence of the correctness of

his statement that Mr. Hume was unfit to act as a representative, in the

British Parliament, of the people of Upper Canada, was given by Mr. Hume

himself in a letter addressed to Mr. W. L. Mackenzie, dated 29th March,

1834. In that letter Mr. Hume stated that Mr. Mackenzie's

Election to, and subsequent ejection from the Legislature, must

hasten that crisis which is fast approaching in the affairs of the

Canadas, and which will terminate in independence and freedom from

the baneful domination of the mother country.

He also advised that

The proceedings between 1772 and 1782 in America ought not to be

forgotten; and to the honour of the Americans, for the interests of

the civilized world, let their conduct and the result be ever in

view.

Dr. Ryerson added: There is no mistaking the revolutionary and

treasonable character of this advice given to Canadians through Mr. W.

L. Mackenzie. Yet I have been denounced for exposing the designs of such

revolutionary advisers!

The following is an extract from Mr. W. L. Mackenzie's remarks in the

_Colonial Advocate_ on Mr. Hume's letter:--

The indignant feeling of the honest old Reformer (Hume), when he

became acquainted with the heartless slanders of the unprincipled

ingrate Ryerson, may be easily conceived from the tone of his

letter.... Mr. Mackenzie will be prepared to hand the original

letter to the Methodist Conference.

_June 4th._--In the _Guardian_ of this date, Dr. Ryerson replied at

length to Mr. Hume's letter, pointing out how utterly and totally false

were Mr. Hume's statements in regard to himself. He, in June, 1832,

expressed his opinion of Mr. Hume (pages 118 and 123). He then said:--

That was my opinion of Mr. Hume, even before I advocated the Clergy

Reserve petition in England,--such it was after I conversed with him

personally, and witnessed his proceedings,--such it is now,--and such

must be the opinion of every British subject, after reading Mr. Hume's

revolutionary letter, in which he rejoices in the approach of a crisis

in the affairs of the Canadas, "which will terminate in independence and

freedom from the baneful domination of the mother country!" I stated to

Mr. Mackenzie more than once, when he called upon me in London, that I

could not associate myself with his political measures. But

notwithstanding all my caution, I, in fact, got into bad company, for

which I have now paid a pretty fair price.... I cannot but regard it as

a blessing and happiness to the Methodist connexion at large, that they

also, by the admission of all parties, stand so completely distinct from

Messrs. Hume and Mackenzie, as to be involved in no responsibility and

disgrace, by this premature announcement of their revolutionary

purposes.

_Oct. 25th._--As to the final result of the agitation in regard to the

"Impressions," Rev. John Ryerson, writing from Hallowell (Picton), at

this date, says:--

The work of schism has been pretty extensive in some parts of this

District. There have as the result of it left, or have been

expelled, on the Waterloo Circuit, 150; on the Bay of Quinte, 40;

in Belleville, 47; Sidney, 50; Cobourg, 32; making in all 320.

There have been received on these circuits since Conference 170,

which leaves a balance against us of 150.

Remarks on the Result of the "Impressions."

The result (on the membership of the Societies) of this

politico-religious agitation was more or less the same in other parts of

the Connexion. The publication of the "impressions" was (to those who

had for years been in a state of chronic war with the powers that be)

like the falling of the thunderbolt of Jove out of a cloudless sky. It

unexpectedly precipitated a crisis in provincial affairs. It brought men

face to face with a new issue. An issue too which they had not thought

of; or, if it had presented itself to their minds, was regarded as a

remote, if possible, contingency. Their experience of the working of

"British institutions" (as the parody on them in Upper Canada was

called), had so excited their hostility and embittered their feelings,

that when they at first heard Dr. Ryerson speak in terms of eulogy of

the working of these institutions in the mother country, they could not,

or would not, distinguish between such institutions in England and their

professed counterpart in Upper Canada. Nor could they believe that the

great champion of their cause, who in the past had exposed the

pernicious and oppressive workings of the so-called British institutions

in Upper Canada, was sincere in his exposition of the principles and the

promulgation of doctrines in regard to men and things in Britain, which

were now declared by Mr. W. L. Mackenzie to be heretical as well as

entirely opposed to views and opinions which he (Dr. Ryerson) had

hitherto held on these important questions. The novelty of the

"impressions" themselves, and the bitterness with which they were at

once assailed, confused the public mind and embarrassed many of Dr.

Ryerson's friends.

In these days of ocean telegraphy and almost daily intercourse by steam

with Britain, we can scarcely realize how far separated Canada was from

England fifty years ago. Besides this, the channels through which that

intercourse was carried on were few, and often of a partizan character.

"Downing Street [Colonial Office] influence," and "Downing Street

interference with Canadian rights," were popular and favourite topics of

declamation and appeal with the leaders of a large section of the

community. Not that there did not exist, in many instances, serious

grounds for the accusations against the Colonial Office; but they, in

most cases, arose in that office from ignorance rather than from design.

However the causes of complaint were often greatly exaggerated, and very

often designedly so by interested parties on both sides of the Atlantic.

This, Dr. Ryerson soon discovered on his first visit to England, in

1833, and in his personal intercourse with the Colonial Secretaries and

other public men in London. The manly generosity of his nature recoiled

from being a party to the misrepresentation and injustice which was

current in Canada, when he had satisfied himself of the true state of

the case. He, therefore, on his return to the Province, gave the public

the benefit of his observation and experience in England.

In the light of to-day what he wrote appears fair and reasonable. It was

the natural expression of pleased surprise that men and things in

England were not so bad as had been represented; and that there was no

just cause for either alarm or ill feeling. His comparisons of parties

in England and in Canada were by extreme political leaders in Canada

considered odious. Hence the storm of invective which his observations

raised.

He showed incidentally that the real enemies to Canada were not those

who ruled at Downing Street, but those who set themselves up--within the

walls of Parliament in England and their prompters in Canada--as the

exponents of the views and feelings of the Canadian people.

The result of such a proceeding on Dr. Ryerson's part can easily be

imagined. Mr. Hume in England, and Mr. W. L. Mackenzie in Canada, took

the alarm. They very properly reasoned that if Dr. Ryerson's views

prevailed, their occupation as agitators and fomenters of discontent

would be gone. Hence the extraordinary vehemence which characterized

their denunciations of the writer who had so clearly exposed (as he did

more fully at a later period of the controversy), the disloyalty of

their aims, and the revolutionary character of their schemes.

This assault on Dr. Ryerson was entirely disproportionate to the cause

of offence. Were it not that the moral effect of what he wrote--more

than what he actually said--was feared, because addressed to a people

who had always listened to his words with deep attention and great

respect, it is likely that his words would have passed unchallenged and

unheeded.

* * * * *

I have given more than usual prominence to this period of Dr. Ryerson's

history--although he has left no record of it in the "Story" which he

had written. But I have done so in justice to himself, and from the fact

that it marked an important epoch in his life and in the history of the

Province. It was an event in which the native nobility of his character

asserted itself. The generous impulse which moved him to defend Mr.

Bidwell, when maligned and misrepresented, and Sir Charles Metcalfe,

whom he looked upon as unjustly treated and as a martyr, prompted him to

do full justice to English institutions, and to parties and leaders

there, even at the expense of his own pre-conceived notions on the

subject.

By doing so he refused to be of those who would perpetuate an imposition

upon the credulity of his countrymen, and especially of those who had

trusted him and had looked up to him as a leader of men, and as an

exponent of sound principles of government and public policy. And he

refused the more when that imposition was practised for the benefit of

those in whom he had no confidence, and to the injury of those for whose

welfare he had laboured for years.

Dr. Ryerson preferred to risk the odium of interested partisans, rather

than fail to tell his countrymen truly and frankly the real state of the

case--who and what were the men and parties with whom they had to do in

England--either as persons in official life, or as members of

Parliament, or writers for the press. He felt it to be his duty to warn

those who would heed his warning of the danger which they incurred in

following the unchallenged leadership of men whose aim he felt to be

revolution, and whose spirit was disloyalty itself, if not a thinly

disguised treason.

After the storm of reproach and calumny had passed away, there were

thousands in Upper Canada who had reason to cherish with respect and

love the name of one who, at a critical time, had so faithfully warned

them of impending danger, and saved them from political and social ruin.

Such gratitude was Dr. Ryerson's sole reward.

* * * * *

It would be impossible, within the compass of this "Story," to include

any details of the speeches, editorials, or other writings of Dr.

Ryerson during the many years of contest for civil and religious rights

in Upper Canada. The _Guardian_, the newspaper press (chiefly that

opposed to Dr. Ryerson), and the records of the House of Assembly

contain ample proof of the severity of the protracted struggle which

finally issued in the establishment on a secure foundation of the

religious and denominational privileges and freedom which we now enjoy.

To the Presbyterians, Congregationalists, Baptists, etc., who joined

heartily with the Methodist leaders in the prolonged struggle, the

gratitude of the country must always be due.--J. G. H.

* * * * *

_March 7th._--In the midst of his perplexing duties as editor, and the

storm of personal attack which his "impressions" had evoked, Dr. Ryerson

received a letter from his Mother. It must have been to him like "good

news from a far country." Full of love and gratitude to God, it would

be to him like waters of refreshment to a weary soul. His Mother said:--

With emotions of gratitude to God, I now write to you, to let you know

that the state of my health is as good as usual. Surely the Lord is

good, and doeth good, and His tender mercies are over me as a part of

the work of His hands. I find that my affections are daily deadening to

the things of earth, and my desires for any earthly good decreasing. I

have an increase of my desire for holiness of heart, and conformity to

all the will of God. I can say with the poet,

"Come life, come death, or come what will,

His footsteps I will follow still."

I long to say, "I live, yet not I, but Christ liveth in me." Besiege the

throne of grace, dear Egerton, in my behalf. Pray that the Lord would

finish his work, and cut it short in righteousness, and make my heart a

fit temple for the Holy Ghost to dwell in. Oh, my son, be continually on

your guard. You have need to believe firmly, to pray fervently, to work

abundantly. Live a holy life, die daily; watch your heart; guide your

senses; redeem your time; love Christ, and long for glory. Give my love

to your wife, and to all whom who may enquire for me, and accept a share

yourself, from your affection-mother,

Mehetabel Ryerson.

Charlotteville, March 4th, 1834.

* * * * *

After his return from England, Dr. Ryerson received a letter from Rev.

Wm. Lord, dated Manchester, 25th March, 1834, in which he referred to an

incident of Dr. Ryerson's visit to his house while in England. He

says:--

Your company, I am thankful to say, was very useful to several

members of my family. The last time you prayed with us, an

influence was received by one or two, the effects of which have

remained to this day. I now allude more particularly to ----, who,

more than twenty times since, has met me at the door, saying, "Have

you a letter from Mr. Ryerson?"

FOOTNOTES:

[41] As an example of the manner in which the Union was hailed in some

parts of the Province, a gentleman, writing from Merrickville on the

11th December, mentions a gratifying incident in regard to it. He

says:--At one Quarterly Conference Love Feast, when the presiding Elder

told the assembled multitude that they were for the first time about to

partake of bread and water as a token of love under the name of British

Wesleyan Methodists, a general burst of approbation proceeded from

preachers, leaders, and members, and such a feeling seemed to pervade

the whole assembly, as it would be difficult to describe.--H.

[42] See page 98.

[43] Rev. Messrs. David Wright, James Evans, William Griffis, jun.,

Henry Wilkinson and Edwy Ryerson. The protest was as follows: We, the

undersigned ministers of the W. M. Church, desirous to avert the evils

which may probably result to our Zion from "impressions" made by certain

political remarks in the editorial department of the _Guardian_, take

this opportunity of expressing our sentiments for your satisfaction, and

to save our characters from aspersion. First. We have considered, and

are still of the same opinion, that the clergy of the Episcopal Church

ought to be deprived of every emolument derived from Governmental aid,

and what are called the Clergy Reserves. Secondly. That our political

views are decidedly the same which they were previous to the visit of

the editor of the _Guardian_ to England, and we believe that the views

of our brethren in the ministry are unchanged.

CHAPTER XII.

1834.

Events following the Union.--Division and Strife.

Dr. Ryerson has left nothing in his "Story" to illustrate this period of

his personal history, nor the strife and division which followed the

consummation of the union of the British and Canadian Conferences. These

untoward events are, however, fully described in the "Epochs of Canadian

Methodism," pages 247-311: They arose chiefly out of the differences

which disturbed the British and Canadian Methodist Societies in Kingston

and other places, and the separation in the Societies generally, caused

by the establishment of the Methodist Episcopal Church in 1834.

I have already given, in chapter xi., page 128, an extract of a letter

to Dr. Ryerson, from his brother John, indicating the causes of strife

between the British and Canadian Societies. I give the following letter,

also from the same gentleman, written from Hallowell early in November,

1833, in which he said:--

Brother William and I called on the Rev. Mr. Hetherington at

Kingston. He said:--That there could be no union; that we were

Radicals; that they would not be united with us; that the District

Meetings of Lower Canada, Halifax, etc., intended to make common

cause with them; especially they intended to remonstrate against

giving up York and Kingston. They also intended to appeal to the

British Conference, and if they were not heard by it they would

appeal to the British people. If the British Conference will allow

its members to throw firebrands, arrows, and death around in this

way, and reciprocate their proceedings after this manner with

impunity, they are very different men from what I have taken them

to be.

_Nov. 20th._--In a subsequent letter to Dr. Ryerson, his brother John

says:--

I fear much for the Union from the English Missionary party. Should

they, from any consideration, undertake to retain Kingston and

York, our cause there will be ruined. In case of such an event, I

will retire immediately, and bid farewell to the strife and toil in

which we have been engaged ever since we have been travelling

preachers. Let me know who have thrown up the _Guardian_. You will

have seen the Cobourg _Reformer's_ attacks. It is of much more

importance for you to expose Mr. Radcliffe, the editor, than any

one else, and point out that, in his present enmity to Methodist

principles, this is not the first time he has endeavoured to break

the Methodist ranks, and to sow the seeds of discord among her

friends. I would take good care not to lean a hairsbreadth towards

radicalism. One reason of their making this onslaught is to scare

you, and induce you to say something which will excite the jealousy

of the Government, and the disapprobation of our British brethren,

and thereby destroy us with them as they seek to do with other

parties.

_Nov. 22nd._--What is thus stated by his brother John was corroborated

by his brother William, who was stationed at Kingston, and who, in a

letter to Dr. Ryerson, said:--

I need not say what my feelings were when I arrived at this place,

and found that arrangements had been made by Mr. Marsden, in

violation of the understanding with the Conference, and in defiance

of the opinions and wishes of every one of our friends in the town

and country, whose feelings have not only been wounded and grieved,

but have rendered the prospects of a union in this place more than

ever entirely hopeless. I have not been considered fit (probably

for want of ability) to act as Superintendent of such an important

station; I have no authority to receive or expel a member, or even

to preside in a meeting of Stewards and Leaders; while my

Superintendent is in Montreal or Quebec; whether or not he will so

stoop as to visit us at all, we cannot say. Besides being shut out

of the British Wesleyan Chapel, every possible means is being used

to prevent a single individual of their Society from attending our

Chapel; and my field of labour is not only greatly circumscribed,

but the prospect of usefulness is nearly destroyed. What my

feelings must be, under such circumstances, you can easily judge. I

can only say that as soon as I can see a way opened, and can do so

consistently, I will not labour as a travelling preacher one day

longer.

_January 8th, 1834._--His brother John, in another letter to Dr. Ryerson

from Hallowell, said:--

Whoever may be the agents in making alterations in our economy, I

will not be one. With "improvements," alterations, unions, and

disunions, we have been agitated long enough. I am done with such

business, henceforth and forever. At our last Conference it was

understood, and expressly stated that no alterations would

hereafter be attempted; and so we have assured the people. But

behold, before they receive that assurance, some alterations are

mooted. Do away with the Presiding Elders, lessen the Districts,

etc., and a dozen other things which will necessarily follow. The

reason urged for these changes is worse than the things

themselves--namely: If we don't, the British Missionaries will

write to the Superintendents and raise such a storm in England,

etc., etc. If this is the way we are to be governed, and if this is

the state of the Connexion at home, the Resolutions on Union, on

parchment or paper, are a miserable farce. The more I think on this

subject, the worse I like it.

In a letter from Kingston to Dr. Ryerson on this subject, Rev. Joseph

Stinson says:--

I have done my utmost to promote the union of the two Societies in

this town. If things are carried with too high a hand, we shall

lose our Kingston Chapel and congregation altogether; and, should

the Kingston people shut their Chapel against us, it will be

impossible to keep things quiet in Lower Canada. I do not think it

necessary to sacrifice the Union to Kingston, nor is it necessary

to sacrifice Kingston, because a number of disaffected radicals in

the Bay of Quinte like to make the state of things here an excuse

for their anti-methodistical proceedings. If there were no Kingston

in existence, these men would never cordially love the Union.

_April_, 1834.--Dr. Ryerson received a letter from the new President of

the Canada Conference (Rev. Edmund Grindrod) dated London, England, in

which the latter said:--

One object of my visit will be to allay the hostility of our

Societies in the Lower Province to their union with us.

Mr. Alder (said Mr. Grindrod) was to have accompanied him, but at Mr.

Bunting's suggestion this plan was abandoned in the hope that--

The friends in Lower Canada, when they have had time to reflect,

would return to better views and feelings.

_Dec. 3rd._--Writing to Dr. Ryerson from Kingston, at this date, Rev.

John C. Davidson[44] says:--

I have been told by the most influential members of the Leaders'

Meeting here that pledges to the following effect have been most

solemnly given to them by Mr. Alder and Mr. Grindrod, viz:--That

the members of the British Society here did not, and were never to

make a part of the Societies governed by the Canada Conference;

that they were to remain as they always were; that their numbers

were to be returned to the home Conference; that our Society was to

be merged in theirs; and Kingston become the head of the Missionary

establishment in Canada,--always to be the residence of the

Superintendent, who was to control and regulate the Kingston

Societies; and that the Presiding Elder was to have nothing to do

with the town; that a large chapel was to be forthwith built,--to

be deeded to the British Conference; and that the minister in

charge of Kingston was always to be an Englishman.

* * * * *

Towards the close of this year, the Methodist Episcopal Church in Canada

was organized. Full details of this division are given by Dr. Ryerson in

the "Epochs of Canadian Methodism," pages 270-288. Happily this

separated branch of the great Methodist family is being re-united to the

parent stock in 1883. Further reference to the subject is, therefore,

unnecessary in this "Story." Nevertheless it should be remembered that

in the discussion and controversy which for years followed this event,

Dr. Ryerson occupied a foremost place as the champion on the Wesleyan

Methodist side.

* * * * *

FOOTNOTES:

[44] This gentleman entered the Methodist Church in 1827, joined the

Church of England in 1854, and was for many years a minister of a

congregation in the Province of Quebec. He died in 1881.

CHAPTER XIII.

1834-1835.

Second Retirement from the "Guardian" Editorship.

As already intimated in Chapter xi., the publication of Dr. Ryerson's

"Impressions" of England, etc., in the _Guardian_ of 1833, excited quite

a political and social sensation. Public men of all shades of opinion

had their feelings at once enlisted for or against the Editor of that

paper, and condemned or commended his course accordingly.

Such a result did not cause much immediate concern to Dr. Ryerson. He,

as Editor, claimed from the first, and his opponents outside of the

Connexion admitted, that in battling for religious equality and

denominational rights, he should be left untrammelled. In other words,

that as Editor of a leading paper like the _Guardian_, he should be left

free to counsel, to advise and warn, and, if necessary, to take strong

ground on all questions involving purely civil rights, and the

constitutional exercise of the prerogative on the part of the Executive.

This was the more necessary, as civil and religious freedom were largely

identical in those days of undefined prerogative, irresponsible

government, and inchoate institutions.

All parties, therefore, tacitly conceded what the Editor of the

_Guardian_ claimed--a wide latitude and a reasonable discretion in

discussing questions of the day which involved either civil rights or

religious freedom. This wise discretion was the more necessary from the

fact that the _Guardian_ was unquestionably the leading newspaper during

these years, and was edited with more than ordinary ability and

power.[45]

Besides, there were many thoughtful men who took little part in

politics, and yet who looked with alarm on the claims and encroachments

of the Family Compact,--a powerful and influential party, and dominant

alike in church and state. Many of the able public men of the day, who

were moderate in their views, were nevertheless the champions of popular

rights. These men were Messrs. Bidwell, Baldwin, Dunn, and others. Their

influence was strongly felt in the House of Assembly, and was sustained

by their great moral worth and high social position. To such men the

powerful aid of the _Guardian_, in advocating the principles of equal

justice to all parties alike, was indispensable; and from its support

they derived much strength, and were greatly aided in maintaining their

position in the House and in the country.

It was under these circumstances, and amid the peculiar exigencies of

the times, that the _Christian Guardian_ became the great organ of

public opinion on the liberal side in Upper Canada. It can, therefore,

be well understood how at such a time, when the supremacy of party was

the question of the hour, the publication of Dr. Ryerson's

"impressions"--candid and moderate as they were--fell like a bombshell

amongst those in Canada who had set up as political idols such men as

Hume and Roebuck in England. To dethrone such idols was of itself bad

enough; but that was not the head and front of Dr. Ryerson's offending.

What gave such mortal offence was that Dr. Ryerson saw any good whatever

in the moderate English Conservative (though he saw none in the English

Tory). And worse still, that he saw many undesirable things in the

English Whigs, and nothing good in the English Radicals. To give special

point to these criticisms and comparisons Dr. Ryerson stated that:--

Radicalism in England appeared to me to be another word for

Republicanism, with the name of King instead of President ... and

that the very description of the public press, which in England

advocates the lowest Radicalism, is the foremost in opposing and

slandering the Methodists in this Province. Hence the fact that

some of these editors have been amongst the lowest of the English

Radicals, previous to their egress from the mother country.

The point of this criticism struck home; and, on the very day on which

it appeared, the cap was fitted upon the head of the leading radical of

the province. In fact, he placed it there himself, and thenceforth

proclaimed war to the knife against the Editor of the _Guardian_. (See

page 125.)

With singular ability and zeal did Mr. W. L. Mackenzie carry on this

warfare. He at once saw what would be the effect of the new departure.

And so promptly and energetically did he denounce the "arch-apostate

Egerton, _alias_ Arnold, Ryerson" as a deserter, that he secured with

little difficulty an impromptu verdict from the public against him. This

he the more readily accomplished, by the aid of at least half a dozen

editors of newspapers in various parts of the province, while Dr.

Ryerson was single-handed. Not only did these editors join with great

vigour in the hue and cry against Dr. Ryerson (for they had many scores

of their own to settle with their powerful rival), but many of Dr.

Ryerson's own brethren were carried away by the sudden outburst of

passion against him. Hundreds of the supporters of the _Guardian_ turned

from him, as a deserter, and many gave up the paper.

It is true that the tide soon turned; and those who had refused at first

to heed, or even to listen to, the words of warning uttered by Dr.

Ryerson in this crisis, were afterwards glad to profit by them, and thus

saved themselves in time from the direful consequences which followed

during the sad events of 1837-38.

The effect, however, of that severe and unexpected encounter with

irrational prejudice (joined to the hostility of those whose plans were

prematurely disclosed and frustrated) was too much for one who, as a

Christian minister and a lover of his country, was filled with higher

aims than those of a mere politician.

In the course of the discussion which followed, Dr. Ryerson came into

contact with some of the more unreasoning of his brethren. (See pages

130-133.) The question was raised as to how far the _Guardian_ should be

involved in conflicts like the present, which from their very nature

introduced an apple of discord into the Connexion, as they partook more

of a political than of a religious character. This question was pressed

upon members of the Conference by the British Missionaries, whose

national prejudices and political sensibilities were, as they alleged,

wounded by the adverse strictures of the Editor of the _Guardian_ on

Church Establishments, the Clergy Reserve question, and kindred topics.

Knowing the impossibility of reconciling views so opposite as those

expressed by the British Missionaries and those of the great majority of

Canadian Methodists (as represented by the _Guardian_), Dr. Ryerson

resolved to retire from the editorship. This, by a vote of his brethren

in the Conference of 1834, he was not permitted to do. But, like a wise

and prudent counsellor amongst men of differing views, he determined to

take the initiative in settling, on a satisfactory basis, the future

course of the _Guardian_ as to the discussion of political and social

questions. At that Conference, therefore, he prepared and submitted a

series of resolutions to the following effect:--

1. That the _Christian Guardian_, as the organ of the Conference,

shall be properly and truly a religious and literary journal, to

explain our doctrines and institutions, and, in the spirit of

meekness, defend them when necessary; to vindicate our character,

if expedient, when misrepresented; to maintain our religious

privileges, etc. 2. To publish general news, etc. 3. That the

_Christian Guardian_ shall not be the medium of discussing

political questions, nor the merits of political parties; as it is

injurious to the interests of religion, and derogatory to our

character as a religious body, to have our Church amalgamated or

identified with any political party.

These resolutions were cordially adopted by the Conference.

_October 4th, 1834._--In a letter received by Dr. Ryerson from Rev. G.

Marsden, Liverpool, the latter referred to this subject and said:--

Your continuance in office, as editor, is of very high importance;

indeed, in some respects it is essential to the consolidation of

the Union. Loyalty to our Sovereign, and firm attachment to the

British Constitution will be supported by it. You will also be able

to defend, and to support sound Wesleyan Methodism; and the

foundation being now laid, you will be able to guard it well.

Rev. E. Grindrod, also writing from England, said:--

From the _Christian Guardian_, I perceive that you have had a hard

battle to fight, but you have proved victorious; and at a future

day, I have no doubt, you will rejoice that the Lord counted you

worthy to suffer in the achievement of an object which will

probably result in immense benefit to a whole Province for

generations to come.

_January 28th, 1835._--About this time Dr. Ryerson received a

remonstrance on the subject from his brother John, who said:--

The more I think of your leaving the office, the more unfavourably

I think of it. There is a tremendous opposition to it in these

parts (Hallowell), among both preachers and people. I think it will

do the paper a great wrong; you had better remain undisturbed until

next Conference.

_Feby. 20th._--Rev. William Ryerson, in a kind letter from St.

Catharines, said:--

The spirit and feeling displayed in your most interesting letter

has made the deepest impression on my mind. I know that you have

your own difficulties and troubles, yet they do not appear to

prevent the outflow of your sympathy for others. How sincerely do I

pray that the God of mercy and truth may graciously support you

under all your trials and difficulties, and in His good time bring

you out of them, purified as gold. I am exceedingly fearful that we

shall have more, and great difficulties, at our next Conference.

Every article and word in the _Guardian_ is criticised and noted,

and made the subject of a large and constant correspondence,

especially with the local preachers, in different parts of the

Province. We shall be much embarrassed about the editorship of the

_Guardian_. Perhaps Providence will point out some suitable person

should you retire.

_May 27th._--In the _Guardian_ of this date, Dr. Ryerson again gave

expression to his long-cherished desire to retire from the editorial

management of that paper. He did so for reasons already given--

Besides (he said) it was the understanding entered into with the

Conference of 1834, when I consented to undertake the duty of

editor for one year. It is gratifying to notice that the

vituperation of party interest and malevolence are nearly, if not

quite, spent. I have, in this and the last two numbers of the

_Guardian_, endeavoured to leave nothing for my successor to settle

on that score. My editorial career in the past has been during an

eventful and agitated period of our Provincial history. I have

steadily endeavoured to keep one object in view--the promotion of

Christianity and the prosperity of the country. In severing my

connection with a large portion of the reading public, I am moved

with feelings not easily expressed. My interest in the cause which

I have advocated, and in the general welfare of my native Province

(which has been intense for years past), will not be less so in any

future fields of labour.

When it was found that Dr. Ryerson had finally decided to retire from

the editorship of the _Guardian_, various suggestions were made to him

as to his future field of labour. The Connexion in Lower Canada were

anxious to secure him as a minister there. The question came up at an

official meeting in Quebec, and Rev. William Lord, who presided, wrote

to Dr. Ryerson on the subject, in May, 1835, as follows:--

Respecting your future appointment to this Province, I may mention

that several of the brethren objected to your leaving the Upper

Province, lest it should be thought you were sent away in disgrace.

I think, however, that I can obtain a station that will be deemed

honourable to yourself, and, I think, quite agreeable, affording a

fine field of usefulness. I am now sitting in the Quarterly

Meeting, and when the question of preachers for the next year came

on, I mentioned that I had conversed with you respecting taking a

circuit, in this Province. They unanimously requested that Brother

Wm. Squire and Brother Egerton Ryerson might be appointed to them

next year. I shall soon be in York, when I will endeavour to obtain

the consent of the friends there, and I think you will be pleased

with the place.

As an indication amongst others of the appreciation in which Dr.

Ryerson's services were held, Rev. R. Heyland, in a letter to him from

Adolphustown, said:--

The people in these parts are very desirous of seeing and hearing

the champion who has written so much in defence of Methodism, and

rescued the character of our Church from the odium which its

unprincipled enemies have been endeavouring to heap upon it for

years past. Be so good as to gratify them this once, and come and

dedicate our new chapel here.

_June 17th._--On this day, for the second time, Dr. Ryerson took leave

of the readers of the _Guardian_--having been relieved by the Conference

of the duties of Editor, at his own request. He said:--

I was, however, elected Secretary of the Conference, and was

stationed at Kingston. In addition, I was appointed, with Rev.

William Lord, President of our Conference, a delegate to the

American General Conference.

In his valedictory he said:--

In relinquishing my present position my thoughts are spontaneously led

back to the period--ten years since--when I first commenced public life.

At that time the Methodists were an obscure, a despised, an ill-treated

people; nor had their church the security of law for a single chapel,

parsonage, or acre of land.... Now the political condition and relations

of the Methodist connexion are pleasingly changed. Ten years ago there

were 41 ministers and 6,875 church members; now there are 93 ministers

and 15,106 church members. We may well thank God, therefore, and take

courage.

I have no ill-will towards any human being. I freely and heartily

forgive the many false and wicked things said of me, publicly and

privately. I have written what I thought best for the cause of religion,

the cause of Methodism, and the civil interests of the country. I have

never received one acre of land, nor one farthing from Government, nor

of any public money. I have never written one line at the request of any

person connected with the Government. I count it to be the highest

honour to which I can aspire to be a Methodist preacher; and in this

relation to the Church and to the world I shall count it my highest joy

to finish my earthly course.

* * * * *

Dr. Ryerson's wish having been fully gratified, and the Conference of

1835 having relieved him of the editorship, he was stationed at

Kingston. This place, of all others, had been the scene of strife and

division between the British and Canadian branches of the Church, and

was the key to the position held by the British Missionaries in Upper

Canada. (See pages 128 and 141). Dr. Ryerson's arrival there and his

reception by the people at Kingston are described in a letter which he

wrote to his friend, Mr. S. S. Junkin, of the _Guardian_ office, dated

July 15th:

We have just arrived, and are for the present staying at the house of

Mr. Cassidy, the lawyer, where we receive every possible kindness and

attention. (See Chapter xxiii.)

I have been very kindly received by the members here. Strong prejudices

have existed in the minds of individuals against me. But they are not

only broken down, but in the principal cases are turned into warm

friendship already. Some who were as bitter as gall, and croaking from

day to day that "the glory has departed," are now like new-born babes in

Christ; are happy in their own souls, praying for sinners, and doing all

they can to build up the cause. I can scarcely account for it. I never

felt more deeply humbled than since I came here. I have indeed resolved

to give my whole soul, body and spirit, to God and to His Church anew,

but I have had scarcely a tolerable time in preaching. Yet the Divine

blessing has specially accompanied the Word. On Wednesday night last the

fallow ground of the hearts of professors seemed to be completely broken

up. On Thursday night I was in the country, but was told the

prayer-meeting was the largest that had been held for two years. On

Sunday evening we had prayer-meeting after preaching. Several came to

the altar, two or three of whom found peace. I closed it at nine

o'clock, but some stayed and others came in, and it was kept up until

near one o'clock in the morning. On Monday night the altar was

surrounded with penitents, and the meeting, I was told (for I was not

there), was better than any former one, and was kept up until after

midnight. At our preachers and leaders' meeting last night there was a

good time. We have preaching and prayer-meeting again to-night. We have

formed the leaders' meeting of both chapels into one, to the

satisfaction of the brethren on both sides. I now begin to hope for

better times. My soul was bowed down like a bulrush for some days after

I came here. But I thank God I have a hold upon the salvation of Christ

that I had not felt for a long time before; and I do believe the Lord

our God will help us and bless us. I have preached at Waterloo twice

since I came down. The last time, several penitents came to the altar;

two professed to find peace, but it was upon the whole a dry time to me.

They are hard cases there. I attended a very blessed quarterly meeting

on the Isle of Tanti, on Thursday last. It was the best day to my own

soul that I have experienced for years.

I feel like a man liberated from prison; but I have reason to believe

that the people are in general amazingly disappointed in my pulpit

exercises. They expected great things--things gaudy, stately, and

speculative,--and I gave them the simplest and most practical things I

can find in the Bible, and that in the plainest way. You would be amused

at the sayings of some of the plain Methodist people; they think that it

is the "real pure Gospel, but they did not expect it so, from that

quarter." I am told that Dr. Barker has said in his _Whig_, that my

"pulpit talents are nothing." I am very glad to have this impression go

abroad; it will relieve me from distressing embarrassments, and enable

me to do much more good in a plain way; for I know the utmost I can

attain in the pulpit is to make things plain, and sometimes forcible.

We had a very blessed prayer-meeting last night, after preaching. A

considerable number of penitents came to the altar, and some found

peace. The work seems to be deepening among the Society. I think we

shall have a comfortable and prosperous year.

_September 24th._ In a subsequent letter to Mr. Junkin, Dr. Ryerson

speaks of a sudden and severe bereavement which had overtaken him. He

said:--

My poor little son John[46] has been removed to the other and

better country. He continued to walk about until within ten

minutes before his death, on the 22nd inst. After attempting to

take a spoonful of milk, he leaned back his head and expired in my

arms, without the slightest visible struggle. He has suffered much,

but expressed a desire that he might live, so that he could see his

little sister. He told me a few days before he died, that he hoped

to go to Heaven, because Jesus had died for him, and loved him. I

feel as a broken vessel in this bereavement of the subject of so

many anxious cares and fond hopes. But this I do know, that I love

God, and supremely desire to advance His glory, and that He does

all things for the best. I will therefore magnify His name when

clouds and darkness envelope His ways, as well as when the smiles

of His providence gladden the heart of man. O may He make me and

mine more entirely and exclusively His, than ever!

In a letter to Mr. Junkin, dated November 14th, Dr. Ryerson says:--

We all go into one chapel to-morrow, which will complete the Union.

Thank the Lord for it! Every one of our members of the "American"

Society (so called heretofore) has already taken sittings in the newly

enlarged chapel, and all things appear to be harmonious and encouraging.

Every pew in the body of the chapel has already been taken by our

brethren and intimate friends; and, notwithstanding the new chapel will

hold more than both the old ones, we are not likely to have enough

sittings to meet the applications that are likely to be made, when it is

known out of the Society, though the whole chapel above and below

(except one tier around the gallery) is pewed.

I have learned that I shall have to take another trip to England. We had

just got comfortably settled here in Kingston; had become acquainted

with the people on all sides, and are happy in our souls, and in our

work. Nothing but the alternative, as Rev. William Lord deeply feels, of

the sinking or success of the Upper Canada Academy, could have induced

me this year to have undertaken such a task. But my motto is--"the cause

of God, not private considerations."

FOOTNOTES:

[45] The amount of postage paid by newspapers would be a fair indication

of their circulation. For instance, in 1830-1, the postage on the

_Christian Guardian_ was £228 sterling ($1,140), which exceeded by £6

the aggregate postage paid by the thirteen following newspapers in Upper

Canada at that time, viz.:--Mackenzie's _Colonial Advocate_, £57; _The

Courier_, £45; _Watchman_, £24; _Brockville Recorder_, £16; _Brockville

Gazette_, £6; _Niagara Gleaner and Herald_, £17; _Hamilton Free Press_,

£11; _Kingston Herald_, £11; _Kingston Chronicle_, £10; _Perth

Examiner_, £10; _Patriot_, £6, _St. Catharines Journal_, £6; _York

Observer_, £3. Total £222, as against £228 paid by the _Guardian_

alone.--H.

[46] John William, aged six years, one month, and eleven days. (See

pages 111 and 113.)--H.

CHAPTER XIV.

1835-1836.

Second Mission to England.--Upper Canada Academy.

Scarcely had Dr. Ryerson been settled at Kingston in the enjoyment of

the freedom and pleasure of his new life as a pastor, than the

exigencies of the Upper Canada Academy called him a second time to

England. The causes of this sudden call upon his time and energies, on

behalf of the Academy, were many and pressing. They were caused chiefly

by the miscalculations, if not indiscreet zeal, of Rev. William Lord,

who, as President of the Conference and Chairman of the Trustee Board of

the Academy, had, by inconsiderate expenditure, plunged the Board into

hopeless embarrassment. (See page 166.)

Mr. Lord was sanguine that what he did in Canada, on behalf of the

Academy, would, if properly represented, be cordially endorsed by the

brethren and friends in England. He, felt that although he himself might

not be able to realize these hopes by a personal appeal, yet he was

certain that the presence in England of Dr. Ryerson on such a mission

would be highly successful. He, therefore, as President of the Canada

Conference, called upon him to undertake this task. He furnished Dr.

Ryerson with such letters and appeals to influential friends as he hoped

would ensure success. Dr. Ryerson, acting on his motto, that "the cause

of God, not private considerations," should influence him, obeyed the

call, and set out for England on this difficult, and, as it proved,

arduous and protracted mission, on the 20th November, 1835.

The nature and extent of the embarrassments of the Academy are stated in

the letters written to Dr. Ryerson after he had left for England. His

brother John said:--

While you are travelling in England making collections for the

Academy, there are, I can assure you, a great many heartfelt

prayers and fervent supplications being offered in this country for

your success. The whole concern is in an extremely embarrassed

state. If Rev. William Lord had not urged us to expenditure, it

would have been at least £1,000 better for us, although what he did

at the time, he doubtless did for the best. Mr. Lord was the means

of inducing the building committee to make an unnecessarily

expensive fence, out-houses, furniture, &c., saying at the time

that money would be forthcoming, and that John Bull never failed to

respond to such calls. We have applied to the Legislature for

assistance, but I think with but little prospect of success. Should

we not get anything there, and you raise no more than £2,000, we

must go down, and the concern be sold. It will require £4,000 or

£5,000 to get us out of debt. If you should collect no more than

£2,000 before you return home, don't fail to make some arrangements

for borrowing two or three thousand more.

Rev. Mr. Lord, writing to Dr. Ryerson, said:--

By the delay in finishing the buildings, and the excitement caused

by the falsehood of the ultra-Radicals, confidence was gone, money

could not be raised, either by begging or borrowing; and if

something had not been done, the consequence would have been

ruinous. I expect that you will have me greatly blamed for not

considering before I drew bills on England for the debt, but there

was no time. The mischief would have been done before we could have

heard. The man would have been arrested immediately,--our character

ruined,--societies divided,--and subscriptions would have been

withheld. Our difficulties are great, and we must make a desperate

effort to extricate ourselves. Everything depends upon your making

a good case, which you can do.

In another letter to Dr. Ryerson, from Canada, Mr. Lord said:--

Let me urge you to lose no time in obtaining a Charter and grant

from Government. I expect our Radical friends will be using their

influence through their friends to prevent your success. Be

diligent in procuring subscriptions. You possess great advantages

now, by the introductions with which you have been favoured. Mr.

Alder tells me that my bills will be dishonoured. If so, in

addition to the loss of character, there will be a waste of

property in fines, &c. We are all distressed, our drafts are coming

due and the Banks have ceased to discount, in consequence of the

stagnation of trade, through "stopping the supplies." We have

agreed upon a temporary mode of relief, by drawing upon you for

about £500. It has given me great surprise and sorrow to ascertain

that upwards of £5,000 are wanted to relieve us from our

difficulties. What an unfathomable depth this building has reached.

You must stay in England until the money is got. Use every effort,

harden your face to flint, and give eloquence to your tongue. This

is your calling. Excel in it! Be not discouraged with a dozen of

refusals in succession. The money must be had, and it must be

begged. My dear Brother, work for your life, and I pray God to give

you success. Do not borrow, if possible. _Beg, beg, beg_ it all. It

must be done!

Such were the circumstances under which this important mission was

undertaken by Dr. Ryerson. As a set off to these disheartening letters,

Dr. Ryerson received the following from some of his brethren in Canada.

Rev. Ephraim Evans said:--

I have become a consenting party to your being solicited, at

considerable sacrifice of feeling, to undertake a tedious journey

at the most untoward season of the year, for the good of the common

cause, and I sincerely tender, in common with my Brother James, my

best thanks for your kind compliance, and my hearty wishes for your

complete success. Indeed I feel most deeply that upon your success

depends, under God, the prosperity or downfall of the Upper Canada

Academy. Be assured that my most fervent prayers will be daily

offered up for your health and safety, for a happy issue to attend

your generous endeavours again to promote the interests of the

Church of our mutual affection.

I entertain not the slightest hope of being able to procure such a

Charter as we would be justifiable in accepting, or any support to

the institution from our own Legislature.

Rev. John Ryerson, writing from Hallowell, said:--

Your friends in Kingston (and all the Methodists there seem to be

such) spoke much about you and your successful labours there.

Brothers Counter, Jenkins, and others, say they are resolved to

have you for their preacher next year, on your return from England.

I hope and pray that good luck will attend your efforts. Everything

depends on the issue of your mission. May the Lord give you favour

in the eyes of the people, and good success in your vastly

important work.

Rev. Joseph Stinson, writing from Kingston, said:--

We all feel very strange now that you are gone, but be of good

cheer; we follow you with our sympathy and prayers. We doubt not

but God--that God in whose cause you are making this additional

sacrifice, will succeed your labour, and cause all things to work

together for your good.

In a letter from London, England, Dr. Ryerson says:--

Mr. Lunn and other friends have arrived from Quebec, and have given

me Canadian news, among other items the stations of various

ministers: Rev. James Richardson and Rev. J. S. Atwood withdraw

from the Conference, and Rev. Mr. Irvine goes to the States. The

President and I remain at Kingston. I have been appointed, by a

unanimous vote, the representative to the British Conference, and I

am to present to Lord Glenelg an Address from the Conference to the

King. On the 18th of June, 1836, the Upper Canada Academy was

opened, and the Principal (Rev. M. Richey) inaugurated.

Dr. Ryerson added:--

I am to stay in Birmingham, at the house of a worthy and wealthy

Quaker, by the name of Joseph Sturge.

At the general meeting of the Missionary Committee, held recently

the resolutions of the Committee relative to the withdrawal of the

Government grant for the work in Upper Canada were read. Dr.

Bunting rose and mentioned its restoration, and kindly and

cordially mentioned me as the means of getting it restored. He gave

a flattering account of my proceedings in the affair. I thanked him

afterwards for his great kindness in the matter.

The labours and result of this, Dr. Ryerson's second mission to England,

are given in Chapter xvi., pages 158-166.

CHAPTER XV.

1835-1836.

The "Grievance" Report; its Object and Failure.

Amongst the Committees of the House of Assembly at this time was a

useful one called the "Committee on Grievances." To this Committee was

referred all complaints made to the House, and all projects of reform,

etc. At the close of the Session of 1835, Mr. W. L. Mackenzie, as

Chairman, brought in an elaborate Report which, without being read, was

ordered to be printed. In that Report, Mr. Mackenzie endeavoured to

create a diversion in his favour by showing that while Dr. Ryerson

professed to be opposed to Government grants to religious bodies, yet he

was willing to receive one for the Wesleyan Conference. The Report

stated that:--

The "British Wesleyan Methodist Conference," formerly the M.E.

Church, received £1,000 in 1833, and £611 in 1834, to be applied

... "to the erection, or repairing of chapels and school-houses,

and defraying the general expenses of the various missions."

This appropriation to the Methodists, as an Ecclesiastical

Establishment, is very singular. In the year 1826 ... Dr. Strachan

informed the Colonial Minister that the Methodist ministers

acquired their education and formed their principles in the United

States.... They appealed to the House of Assembly, which inquired

into and reported on the matter in 1828.

Upon another occasion they received a rebuke from Sir John Colborne

... in answer to the Address of the Conference requesting him to

transmit to His Majesty their Address on the Clergy Reserves.

Since, however, a share of public money has been extended to and

received by them, there seems to have been established a mutual

good understanding.

To this Report, Dr. Ryerson replied to the effect--

That the grant was made to the British Conference in England (over

which we had no control) and not to the Canada Conference; that the

grant in question was made by Lord Goderich, as part of a general

scheme agreed upon in 1832, to aid Missionaries in the West Indies,

Western, and Southern Africa, New South Wales, and Canada, "to

erect chapels and school-houses in the needy and destitute

settlements;" that the Rev. R. Alder had come from England, in

1833, to establish separate and distinct missions from those under

the Canada Conference with a view to absorb this grant; that when

the Union was formed, in 1833, the missions in charge of the Canada

Conference became the missions of the British Conference, and were

managed by their own Superintendent; that the Canadian Missionary

Society from that time became a mere auxiliary to the parent

Society in England; that the Canada Conference assumed no

responsibility in regard to the funds necessary to support these

missions; and that, in point of fact, they had cost the British

Methodists thousands of dollars over and above any grant received

from Lord Goderich as part of the general scheme for the support of

missionaries in the extended British Colonies.

Dr. Ryerson, in concluding these explanations, adds:--

We trust that every reader clearly perceives the unparalleled

parliamentary imposition that has been practised upon the public by

the "Grievance Committee," and their gross insinuations and

slanders against the Methodist ministers.

In 1836, the Report of the Grievance Committee came up in the House

again. On this subject Rev. John Ryerson wrote in March, 1836, to Dr.

Ryerson, in London, as follows:--

The altercations and quarrels which have taken place in the

Assembly this session on the part of Peter Perry and W. L.

Mackenzie, especially about the "Grievance Report," have raised you

much in the estimation of the people. The correctness of your views

and statements are now universally acknowledged, and your defamers

deserted by all candid men. Political things are looking very

favourable at the present time. The extremer of the Radical party

are going down headlong. May a gracious Providence speed them on

their journey!

To Mr. Perry, Dr. Ryerson replied fully and explicitly. He said:

Mr. Perry has charged me with departing from my former ground in

regard to an ecclesiastical establishment in Upper Canada. My

editorials and correspondence with Her Majesty's Government will be

considered conclusive evidence of the falsity of the charge, and

will again defeat the attempts of the enemies of Methodism to

destroy me and overthrow the Conference. Another cause of attack by

Mr. Perry is, that amongst several other suggestions which I took

the liberty to offer to Lord Glenelg, Colonial Secretary, was the

appointment of a certain gentleman of known popularity to the

Executive Council. Mr. Perry seemed to consider himself as a sort

of king in Lennox and Addington, and appears to regard it as an

infringement upon his sovereign prerogatives that I should be

stationed so near the borders of his empire as Kingston. But many

of his constituents can bear record whether the object of my

ministry was to dethrone Peter Perry, or to break down the power

and influence of a much more formidable and important

personage--the power of him that ruleth in the hearts of the

children of disobedience.[47]

_March 30th, London._--During his stay in England, Dr. Ryerson had been

able to look upon public affairs in Upper Canada with more calmness, and

more impartiality, than when he was there in the midst of them as an

actor. In that spirit he, at this date, addressed a letter to the

_Guardian_ on what he regarded as an approaching crisis of the highest

importance to the Province. He said:--

It is not a mere ephemeral strife of partizanship; it is a

deliberate and bold attempt to change the leading features of the

Constitution--a Constitution to which allegiance has been sworn,

and to which firm attachment has been over and over again expressed

in addresses to the Governor up to 1834. Such being the case, it

becomes every man who fears God and loves his country to pause, to

think, to decide. I have told the Colonial Secretary, that whilst

the Methodist Church asked for nothing but "equal and impartial

protection," yet I believed the attachment to the Constitution of

the country and to the British Crown, expressed in petitions and

addresses from the Methodist Conference and people of Canada, to be

sincere, and that they would prove to be so in their future

conduct. They had been falsely charged as being Republicans, but

they had always repudiated this charge as a calumny. Nor would they

be found among those who, like Messrs. Peter Perry and W. L.

Mackenzie, had recently avowed their intention to establish

republican elective institutions in the Province.

As to the charges of the "Grievance Committee" party, I can truly

say that I have never received one farthing of public money from

any quarter, and my humble support to my King and country is

unsought, unsolicited, and spontaneous.

_May 21st--London._--At this date Dr. Ryerson wrote:--

During my exile here in England I have more and more longed for news

from Canada, and cooling water to the panting hart could not be more

refreshing than late intelligence from my dear native land has been to

me. I can now listen with an interest and sympathy that I never did

before, to the patriotic effusions of the warm-hearted and eloquent

Irishmen, whom I have recently heard, respecting "the first flower of

the earth, the first gem of the sea."

The news from Canada presents to my mind strange contrasts. A few years

ago efforts were made to prove that the Methodist ministers were the

"salaried hirelings" of a foreign republican power. Now efforts are

being made to persuade the Canadian public that the same ministers are

the salaried hirelings of British power, because they refuse to be

identified with men and measures which are revolutionary in their

tendencies. Our motto is "fear God and honour the King," and "meddle not

with them that are given to change." Many who were influenced to take

part in the former crusade have long since given proof of a better

spirit; so it will be, I trust, with those who have now been hurried on

into the present shameless and malignant opposition, against a cause

which has confessedly been of the highest spiritual and eternal

advantage to thousands in Upper Canada. I venture to predict that not a

few of our partizan adversaries will ere long lament their madness of

political idolatry and religious hostility. In the former case,

Methodism survived, triumphed, and prospered; in the present case, if we

are true to our principles and faithful to our God, He will again "Cause

the wrath of man to praise Him, and restrain the remainder of that

wrath."

FOOTNOTES:

[47] Dr. Ryerson's reply to Mr. Perry was afterwards reprinted as an

election flysheet, headed "Peter Perry Picked to Pieces by Egerton

Ryerson," and circulated broadcast in the counties. It resulted in Mr.

Perry being rejected as M.P.P. for Lennox and Addington in the elections

of 1836. (See Chapter xxiii.)

CHAPTER XVI.

1836-1837.

Dr. Ryerson's Diary of his Second Mission to England

The following is from Dr. Ryerson's diary (which is incomplete) giving

the result of his experiences and labours in England, during his second

mission there.

_London, January 1st, 1836._--I am again in the great metropolis of

the Christian world. My wife and I left our native land, and

affectionate pastoral charge, on the 20th of November, 1835, and

arrived here the 30th of December, after a voyage of tempest and

sea-sickness. But to the Ruler of the winds, and the Father of our

spirits, we present our grateful acknowledgments for the

preservation of our lives. To our Heavenly Father have I, with my

dear wife, presented ourselves at the commencement of this new

year. O, may we through grace keep our vows, and henceforth abound

in every Christian grace and comfort, every good word and work!

We have been most kindly received by the Missionary Secretaries and

other brethren; the prospects appear encouraging for the success of

our mission: another ground of thankfulness, increased zeal, and

faithfulness.

_Jan. 2nd._--Called at the Colonial Office to present my note of

introduction from Sir John Colborne to Lord Glenelg. We were

admitted to an interview with Mr. (afterwards Sir James) Stephen,

Assistant Colonial Secretary, who promised to present Sir John

Colborne's letter to Lord Glenelg, and inform me when he would

receive me. To-day I received a call from my kind and excellent

friend, Rev. John Hannah, a thorough scholar, a profound divine, an

affectionate, able, and popular preacher. He heartily welcomed us

to the country.

_Jan. 3rd--Sabbath._--It being the first Sabbath in the year, I

attended that most solemn and important service--the renewal of the

covenant. It was conducted by Rev. Dr. Bunting, in a manner the

most impressive and affecting I ever witnessed. There were but few

dry eyes in the chapel. He spoke of the primary design of Methodism

as not to oppose anything but sin--not to subvert existing forms of

faith, but to infuse the vital spirit of primitive Christianity

into them. Dr. Bunting said that the renewal of the covenant was a

service peculiar to Methodism, and expatiated on the importance of

its being entered upon advisedly, and in humble dependence upon

Divine grace. After singing, the whole congregation knelt down,

remaining some time in silent prayer. After Dr. Bunting, as their

mouthpiece, read the covenant, all then rose and sang "The covenant

we this moment make," etc. The Lord's Supper was administered to

several hundred persons, and the services concluded with singing

and prayer.

_Jan. 4th._--I spent the evening at Rev. Mr. Alder's, in company

with Dr. Bunting, Rev. John Bowers, and Rev. P. L. Turner. In

conversation, the religious and general interests of the Methodist

Connexion were introduced. I was no less edified than delighted

with the remarks of Dr. Bunting, especially those which related to

the former distinction between, and the present confounding of,

supernumerary and superannuated preachers, and the desirableness of

restoring the ancient distinction. He spoke of the experience

requisite to, and evils of general legislation in, Church

affairs--introducing matters of legislation into Quarterly

Meetings, etc. Dr. Bunting's prayer at parting was deeply

spiritual.

_Jan. 5th._--Spent the day in writing an article for the

_Watchman_, on the present state of the Canadas; and in drawing up

some papers on the Upper Canada Academy. Had a pleasant visit from

Rev. John Beecham, one of the Missionary Secretaries.

_Jan. 6th._--Met at the Mission House with Rev. Richard Reece,

President of the Conference. He is, I believe, the oldest preacher

who has filled the presidential chair since the days of Wesley.

_Jan. 10th, Sunday._--In the morning heard Rev. Mr. Cubitt, and in

the evening endeavoured to preach for him.

_Jan. 13th._--Received a note from Lord Glenelg fixing the time

when he would receive me.

_Jan. 14th._--Spent a delightful evening in company with Rev. John

Hannah and wife, Dr. Sandwich (Editor of the _Watchman_) and wife,

and several others. The conversation principally turned upon the

learning of the ancients, and the writings of the early Protestant

Reformers and their successors. Dr. Sandwich is a very literary

man, Mr. Hannah an excellent general scholar.

_Jan. 15th._--Spent the evening with Rev. William Jenkins, an old

superannuated minister, in company with several friends. Mr. and

Mrs. Jenkins are a venerable couple about 80 years of age.

_Jan. 17th--Sabbath._--Heard the Hon. and Rev. Baptist Noel. The

Church was plain, the congregation large, and very attentive and

solemn. A large number of school children were present; the little

girls all dressed alike; they all had prayer and hymn books; they

read the responses and sung with the utmost correctness. In the

afternoon we went to that splendid monument of art and wealth--St.

Paul's. The sermon was more evangelical than I expected. In the

evening I preached to a very large congregation in St. George's

Chapel, Commercial Road. A gracious influence seemed to rest on the

congregation.

_Jan. 24th--Sabbath._--Preached in the Hinde-street Chapel. In

Surrey Chapel I heard Rev. James Parsons, of York, one of the first

preachers of the day. Surrey Chapel is the place of the celebrated

Rowland Hill's protracted ministry. Its shape is octagon, and it

will seat 3,000 persons. The church service was read well by a

person of strong, sonorous voice. At the conclusion of the church

service Mr. Parsons ascended the pulpit. His prayer was simple,

unaffected, and scriptural. His text was Luke xi. 47-48. His manner

was by no means pleasing; he stood nearly motionless, and appeared

to be reading his sermon. Yet attention was riveted; the current of

thought soon began to rise, and continued to swell, until he came

to a pause. Then there was a general burst of coughing; after which

the preacher proceeded in an ascending scale of argument, until he

had his audience entranced, when he would burst forth upon his

captives with the combined authority and tenderness of a conqueror

and deliverer, and press them into the refuge city of Gospel

salvation.

_Jan. 25th._--Attended a Missionary-meeting in Southwark Chapel.

Mr. Thomas Farmer, presided. Several spake: one a New Zealander,

whose wit and oddities amused all, but profited none.

_Jan. 26th._--Had an interview with Lord Glenelg, on the subject of

my mission. We can get a charter for the Upper Canada Academy, but

assistance is uncertain. His Lordship was very courteous and

communicative. He thanked me for the information I gave him

concerning the Colonies.

_Jan. 31st, Sunday._--Preached twice to-day (in City Road and

Wilderness Row). The Lord was with me, and I believe I did not

labour in vain.

_Feb. 13th._--Had an interview with the Rt. Hon. Edward Ellice; was

received with great kindness; he promised to use his utmost

influence to promote the object of my mission at the Colonial

office.

_Feb. 18th._--Called at the residences of several of the nobility;

found none at home, but Lord Ashburton, who gave me £5.

_Feb. 20th._--Made no progress in the way of collecting; much

ceremony is necessary. Have obtained some useful information, and

written to Sir Robert Peel on the object of my mission.

_Feb. 21st, Sunday._--Heard the Rev. Peter McOwan preach. It was

the best sermon I have heard from a Methodist pulpit since my

arrival in England. I preached in Great Queen-street Chapel in the

evening, on the new birth. I think the Lord was present to apply

the word.

_Feb. 22nd._--Called upon Lord Kenyon. I was very courteously

received; but His Lordship declined subscribing on account of the

many objects to which he contributed in connection with America. He

expressed his good wishes. I next called upon the Earl of

Aberdeen--Colonial Secretary under Sir Robert Peel's government. He

expressed himself satisfied with my letters from Upper Canada, but

said that he would enquire of Mr. Hay, late under Colonial

Secretary, and directed me to call again. I was also received by

Dr. Blomfield, Lord Bishop of London. Dr. Blomfield is a handsome

and very courteous man. He declined subscribing on account of its

not having been recommended by the Bishop of the Diocese; was not

unfriendly to my object; said he had a high respect for the

Wesleyan body, and considered they had done much good; he had

expressed this opinion in print.

_Feb. 23rd._--Addressed a letter to Lord Glenelg requesting an

early answer to our application, stating our pressing

circumstances. Called upon Thomas Baring, Esq., M.P., who gave me

£5. I find it very hard and very slow work to get money.

_Feb. 24th._--Received an answer from Sir Robert Peel in the

negative. His reason is non-connection with Upper Canada! A

gentleman of the house of Thomas Wilson & Co. gave utterance to a

sentiment which singularly contrasted with the selfishness of Sir

Robert Peel. He said: Education was the same thing throughout the

world, and that was the light in which this institution should be

viewed. His house gave me ten guineas, and have kindly engaged to

furnish me with names of other gentlemen.

_Feb. 25th._--Obtained £21 for the Academy. The sentiments

expressed by two of the gentlemen on whom I called deserve to be

recorded. Mr. A. Gillespie, jun., who is connected with Lower

Canada, after subscribing £10 and furnishing me with a list of

names of merchants engaged in trade with the Canadas, said:--"I am

a member of the Church of Scotland, but I have a high respect for

John Wesley and Dr. Bunting. I admire the principles of John

Wesley, and hope you will abide by them, and that they will be

taught in this institution. Above all things keep out Socinianism."

I then called on a Mr. Brooking, who said:--"I feel happy in the

opportunity of contributing to such an object. I have been in the

North American provinces and know that nothing is wanted more than

good institutions for the education of youth, and especially under

the superintendence of the Methodists. From what I have seen I

believe they have done more good in the colonies than any other

Church. Though I am a member of the Church of England, I feel it my

duty as a Protestant, and a friend to religion, to give my utmost

mite to the labours of your ministers in the colonies. I believe in

those new countries the Methodists are the bulwark of Protestantism

against popery and infidelity, and I am glad you are establishing

such an institution."

_Feb. 27th._--Received the greatest kindness from Mr. E. H.

Chapman, who was in Upper Canada last summer, and had seen the

institution at Cobourg. He expressed himself happy in the

opportunity to subscribe, and said he had travelled two days with

Sir John Colborne. Mr. Chapman considered, of all people, the

Methodists the most active and successful in imparting religious

instruction to the Colonists.

_Feb. 28th--Sabbath._--Preached at Islington; then dined with a Mr.

Brunskill, who was well versed in the history of Methodism.

From this date until the close of July there is no record in Dr.

Ryerson's diary. From letters written by him to Canada, I therefore

continue the narrative:--

_Birmingham, April 11th._--During a delightful visit here at the

missionary anniversaries I had an opportunity of hearing and

conversing with two of the most remarkable men of the present day:

William (or, as he is called, Billy) Dawson, the Yorkshire farmer,

and the venerable Gideon Ousley, the patriarchal Irish missionary.

Mr. Dawson excelled in his own characteristic way any man I ever

heard. His great strength lies in a matchless power of graphic

description, dramatic imitation, and hallowed unction from the Holy

One. He is a man of an age. At the missionary breakfast I sat

beside the venerable Ousley, and told him of some of his spiritual

children in Canada that I knew. He gave God the praise, and desired

me to deliver this message to his old friends and spiritual

children in Canada: "I am now in my 75th year, labouring as hard as

ever; am well, and strong. Be faithful unto death. I will meet you

in Heaven."

_London, June 8th._--To-day my brethren are assembling in Annual

Conference at Belleville. It is the first conference in the

proceedings of which, I have not been permitted to take a part

since I entered the ministry. A considerable part of the day I

spent in imploring the divine blessing upon the deliberations of my

brethren. After reckoning the difference of time, I retired at the

hour when I knew they would be engaged in the conference

prayer-meeting in order to unite with them at the throne of the

Heavenly grace; and truly, I found it refreshing indeed to be

present in spirit with them in beseeching the continual direction

of the Divine Pilot to guide the Wesleyan ship over the tempestuous

sea. I long to be with my fellow-labourers in Canada in their toils

as well as joys. "If I forget thee," O thou Spiritual Jerusalem of

my native land, "let my right hand forget its cunning, and my

tongue cleave to the roof of my mouth. Peace be within thy walls,

and prosperity within thy palaces!"

_June 12th._--Although I find that collecting for the Upper Canada

Academy is a wearisome work, yet I must not slacken my exertions so

long as our friends in Upper Canada are in such straits for funds.

Brother John has written me an urgent letter from Hallowell, in

which he says:--I hope the Lord will give you good success in

collecting for our Seminary. Everything depends on the success of

your exertions. £4,000 is the least that will answer. O, how

awfully we have got involved in this painful and protracted

business! O, if you can help us out of this mire, the Lord reward

you! I am greatly at a loss what to do. I had concluded to leave,

and go to the States; but thought I had better wait your return and

take counsel with you. I hope the Lord may direct me!

_Dublin, July 2nd._--I have just come over here to the Irish

Conference, and was affectionately received by the Irish preachers.

While in Dublin I stayed with a very intelligent and kind family. I

attended the Irish Conference, which was held in Whitefriar's

Street Chapel--a building rented for a preaching-place by the

venerable Wesley himself. Here in the midst of the sallies of Irish

wit and humour, mingled with evident piety and kindness, I sat down

and wrote a letter to the dear friends in Canada.

From this letter I make an extract:--

The preachers are warm-hearted, pious men, some of them very

clever; warm in their discussions, abounding in wit; talk much in

doing their business; several are sometimes up at a time. They are

certainly a body of excellent men. In their financial reports it

appears that many of them are really examples of self-denial,

suffering, and devotion.

The following are extracts from Dr. Ryerson's diary:--

_July 26th._--Attended the Conference at Birmingham. When Dr. Fisk

was introduced, the address of the American General Conference was

read. Silence and attention were marked until the words "negro

slavery" were mentioned, when there was a general cry of "hear,

hear," and "no, no, no."

During the Conference a Mr. Robinson was called upon to explain his

reason for preaching to a secret society called "Odd Fellows." Dr.

Bunting and Dr. Newton had always refused to preach to such

societies. Dr. Fisk made some remarks on Masonry in the United

States, and the evil of the Methodist preachers being connected

with, or countenancing, such societies.

_Sept. 2nd._--Presented to Lord Glenelg the Address, to the King,

of the Canadian Conference. He read it carefully, and expressed

himself pleased with it. He enquired as to the charges against Sir

Francis Head, and the appointment of those persons only to office

who are truly attached to the British Constitution. I answered his

lordship on each of these points mentioned, and assured him of the

loyal British feelings of the inhabitants of Upper Canada. I

pressed upon him the importance of an early settlement of the

Clergy Reserve question. His lordship thanked me for the

communications which I had from time to time made to him on

Canadian affairs. He requested me to write to him on any matter,

relative to the Canadas, I thought proper.

_Sept. 4th--Sunday._--Attended the Hon. and Rev. Baptist Noel's

Church at 8 a.m., when he administered the Lord's Supper to such as

could not attend at any other hour. I communed for the first time

in the Established Church. I heard this evangelical minister preach

at 11 a.m. Preached myself in Spitalfields in the evening.

_Sept. 6th._--Came here (Birmingham) from London on a collecting

tour. Have been kindly received by my Quaker friends, the Sturges.

In commemoration of the first Wesleyan Conference being held in

Birmingham, gold medals were presented to Dr. Bunting and Dr.

Newton, and silver medals to representatives of other

Conferences--the Irish and American. My name as representative not

having been received in time for a presentation at Conference, a

medal was subsequently presented to me as Canadian representative,

and to Rev. Richard Reece, ex-President, by the ladies of the

Society in Birmingham. The addresses on the occasion were made by

the President and Secretary--that to Mr. Reece in a few choice

words by Dr. Bunting; and to me, in a kindly manner, by Dr. Newton.

In reply I acknowledged the unexpected compliment, not as paid to

me, but to the country and connexion which I represented.

_Sept. 7th._--Have been kindly received by the preachers in

Birmingham. Spent a pleasant evening at Mr. Oldham's (son-in-law of

Rev. John Ryland), where I met no less than six clergymen of the

Established Church; the conversation was wholly of a religious

character, perfectly free and social. I was informed that all the

clergymen in Birmingham, except one, were truly evangelical. Mr.

Ryland told me that Rev. J. A. James had expressed his conviction

that there is decidedly more piety amongst the mass of the

Established Clergy than among the Dissenting Clergy. It was

altogether the most unaffectedly genteel, and truly religious party

I have met with in England.

_Sept. 9th._--Busy and successful. Very kindly received by the

following Church of England ministers, viz., Rev. Mr. Mosely,

Rector, Rev. Dr. Jeune [afterwards Master of Pembroke College], and

Rev. William Marsh, who is frequently called the model of the

Apostle John, on account of the depth and sweetness of his piety,

the purity of his life, and the heavenly expression of his

countenance. [His daughter is a noted evangelist and writer, 1883.]

_Sept. 10th._--Took tea with Mr. Meredith, a Swedenborgian, upwards

of 80, perfectly sincere in his belief, and sweet in his spirit.

Also met the celebrated Dr. Philip, of South Africa, and the more

celebrated John Angel James, of Birmingham. The conversation of the

evening was principally turned upon the means by which the great

measure of emancipation was carried--the conduct of Mr. Stanley and

Mr. Buxton. I was struck with Mr. Sturge's remark, that he

"believed such men as Sir A. Agnew, Sir Harry Inglis, and Lord

Ashley [now, in 1883, Lord Shaftesbury], were the most honest men

in the House of Commons."

_Sheffield, Sept. 17th._--Here I met with my old friends, Revs.

Messrs. Marsden, Grindrod, and Moss.

_Sept. 18th--Sunday._--Preached in Craven street Chapel in the

morning, and at Brunswick Chapel in the evening.

_Sept. 20th._--Attended the Financial District Meeting. It was

stated that 900 persons had seceded in Sheffield in the Kilhamite

schism, and yet the finances were better at the end of the quarter

than they had been the preceding one. Kind references were made to

myself, and the object of my mission.

Dr. Ryerson's Diary ends here. From his letters to Canada I make the

following extracts:--

_Sheffield, Oct. 5th._--I was in Barnsley on Friday and Saturday;

went to Wakefield on Saturday, and preached there on Sunday.

Addressed about 40 circulars to gentlemen in Wakefield on Monday

morning. Returned to Sheffield and spoke at the Missionary Meeting;

begged yesterday; spoke at the adjourned meeting last evening; have

been begging to-day. Spent Friday and Saturday in Wakefield; go to

Leeds on Saturday evening, and so on. The preachers and friends

shew me all possible kindness and attention. The Yorkshire people

are very warm-hearted and social. Methodism there presents an

aspect different in several respects from that which it presents in

London, or in any other part of England I have visited; more warm,

energetic, and unaffected--something like Hallowell Methodism in

Upper Canada. Oh! I long to get home to my circuit work. Amidst all

the kindness and interest that it is possible for piety,

intelligence, Yorkshire generosity and wit to impart, I feel like

an exiled captive here in England.

_Bradford, Oct. 10th._--The time I am here appears very dreary, as

I am from morning until midnight in public labours or society of

some kind. I have collected £83 last week, and for much of it I

have begged very hard--though some think that I do not beg hard

enough. It is, however, only one who has been a stranger and had to

beg, that can fully appreciate the feelings and embarrassments of a

stranger in such circumstances. This work and sacrifice have not

been of my own seeking--but against my seeking. I was comfortably

settled amongst kind friends in Kingston, but am now cast forth in

this distant land, and engaged in the most disagreeable of all

employments,--and for what? Oh! it is for the sake of Him to whose

cause and glory I have consecrated my life and all. I shall love,

honour, and value my pastoral labours more than ever. I hope that

they may be more useful. During the past week I have been enabled

more fully than for a year past to adopt the language of St. Paul.

Gal. ii. 20.

_Oct. 11th._--While here I was truly gratified to receive a letter

from Miss Clarissa Izard, of Boulogne (France), in which she

says:--I trust you will pardon me, sir, for this expression of my

gratitude. If it had not been for a sermon preached by you on the

21st of February last, I might have been where hope never cometh;

but, blessed be God, now I have a hope--a hope which lifts me above

this world, and which, I trust, I shall retain until I obtain the

crown of righteousness which fadeth not away.

Among the many pleasing incidents in Dr. Ryerson's otherwise unpleasant

duty of collecting funds for the Upper Canada Academy, was the note

written from Kensington Palace by command of Her Royal Highness the

Duchess of Kent. It was as follows:--

I am commanded by the Duchess of Kent to acknowledge the receipt of

your letter of the 22nd inst., and accompanying statement of "The

Upper Canada Academy, for the education of Canadian youth, and the

most promising youth of converted Indian tribes--to prepare them

for school-masters." Her Royal Highness is most happy in

patronizing, as you request, so useful and benevolent an

Institution, and calculated especially to promote the best

interests of the native population, the British emigrants, and the

aboriginal tribes of that valuable and important British Province.

Her Royal Highness desires that her name be placed on the

subscription list for £10.

Referring to the great importance of the Upper Canada Academy, and to

the services rendered by Dr. Ryerson in connection with its

establishment, Rev. William Lord said:--

There have been many circumstances and occurrences connected with

this institution which, to my mind, are indicative of Providential

interference. The bitterness manifested against it by the enemies

of Methodism and of the peace of the country; the difficulties

which stood in the way of its completion; the distressing,

overwhelming, and unforseen embarrassments of its funds, which

forced the Committee to send you to this country to seek relief,

just at a time when the affairs of the Province had arrived at a

crisis, and at a time when you could render special service, by

communicating with the Home Government--service, allow me to say,

greater than any other man could render, or than you could have

rendered at any other time or place--the favourable turn which

public affairs have recently taken, and, I know, in some degree

through your instrumentality; the perplexing and most painful

disappointments experienced in obtaining suitable teachers, now

happily overcome; the share of public favour which the Academy has

obtained on the commencement of its operations; and, lastly, the

great services you have rendered the Missionary Society, in the

advantage you have secured to our Indian Missionaries by your

representations and applications to the Government, are to me

reasons for believing God is in this business. You may, I think,

take courage, and go on in the name of the Lord. I can sympathize

with you; I have also suffered in this cause. I would not endure

the anxiety and mental agony I have experienced on account of this

institution for any earthly consideration. But if it flourish, I

have my reward. And now the reflection that, at much personal risk,

I have more than once saved innocent and deserving men from

imprisonment, and Methodism from indelible reproach, is cheering

and consoling. I will still stand by your side and share in your

difficulties. My honour in this matter is united with yours, and

the ruin of this institution will be mine.

In a letter from London, dated 21st July, 1836, Dr. Ryerson narrates the

difficulties which he had encountered in obtaining a Charter for the

Upper Canada Academy. The correspondence with the Colonial Office

embraced twenty-nine letters, and extended over a period of six months.

In conducting it, Dr. Ryerson states:--I found those in the Colonial

Office, and those who retired from it (during that time) equally

favourable to the object of my mission, and equally desirous of

promoting the best interests of the Colonies. In his report of the

negotiations for the Charter, Dr. Ryerson says:--

The Attorney-General assured me that not only Lord Glenelg, but

every member of His Majesty's Government was anxious to accede to

my application--that the difficulties were purely legal--that

though the doctrines and rules of the Methodist body in Canada were

doubtless very sacred, yet they were unknown in law, (in England.)

I, therefore, laid before the Crown officers[48] a copy of the

statutes of Upper Canada (which I had borrowed from the Colonial

office), and showed the grounds on which we professed to be

invested with the clerical character by the statutes of the

Province, as well as by the formularies of our connexion, and were

recognized as ministers by the Courts of Quarter Sessions; that we

might be defined as ministers (for the purposes of the Charter) as

in the Marriage Statute of U.C., which would be the same thing as

being defined according to the Rules of our Discipline. Placing the

question before the Crown officers in this simple light, their

scruples were at once removed, and they cordially acceded to my

proposition to recognize our ministerial character. As I was

required to name in the Charter the first trustees and visitors,

and as I had no list of those who had been appointed by the

Conference, I was obliged to furnish names myself. I was also

required to name in the Charter the time and place of the next

Annual Meeting (Conference) of Ministers. I inserted the second

Wednesday of June as the time of meeting; Cobourg, or Toronto, as

the place of meeting.

With the aid of a professional gentleman (whom I could only get for

a small portion of each day) the draft of Charter was prepared

after a delay of five weeks. This draft was approved, with the

exception of the words: Wesleyan Methodist _Church_, for which the

Solicitor-General had substituted the words: Wesleyan Methodist

_Connexion_, as the designation of the Body on whose behalf a

Charter was to be granted. In a letter to Sir George Grey I stated

my reasons why the word _Church_ should be retained, as the

Wesleyan ministers, under whose superintendence the Academy is to

be placed, had been licensed (under the Provincial Statute referred

to in the Charter) as Ministers of the Wesleyan Methodist Church in

Canada. To these reasons the Crown Officers yielded, and thus the

Charter was completed.

I then renewed my application for receiving aid from the Casual and

Territorial Revenue of Upper Canada. In reply, I was assured that

the Lieutenant-Governor would be directed to bring the claims of

the Academy before the notice of the Provincial Legislature.

Dr. Ryerson concludes:--

Thus terminated this protracted correspondence of more than six

months, during the whole of which time I was enabled to cleave to

and maintain my original purpose; though I had to encounter

successive, discouraging, and almost insurmountable difficulties.

Not having been able to effect any loan from private individuals,

on account of the agitated state of the Canadas--being in suspense

as to the result of my application to the Government, I was

several months pressed down with anxiety and fear by this suspense,

and by reason of the failure of my efforts to obtain relief. In

this anxiety and fear my own unassisted resolution and fortitude

could not sustain me. I had to rely upon the unfailing support of

the Lord, my God.

In my negotiations for the Charter, I was uniformly treated with

courtesy and kindness in the Colonial office, and by the several

members of His Majesty's Government. Praise God!

In a letter written to Dr. Alder, after Dr. Ryerson had returned from

England, the latter said:--

We have not yet received a farthing of the Government grant to our

Academy. The Governor's reply still is, there is no money in the

treasury; but he has given us his written promise, and offered his

word to any of the banks, that it shall be paid out of the first

money which had not been previously appropriated. But, strange to

say, there is not a bank or banker in Upper Canada that will take

the Governor's promise for £100. Mr. Receiver-General Dunn kindly

lent, out of his own pocket, to my brother John, about £1,200 for

the Academy, upon my brother's receipt, remarking at the same time

that he did it upon his credit, and out of respect to the

Methodists, but that he could place no dependence upon the word of

Sir Francis in the matter. We are thus pressed to beg or borrow in

relation to the Academy as much as ever, or even worse, for several

of us are individually responsible for £2,200, besides Mr. Farmer's

loan of £800. At our recent Academy Board Meeting, the damages of

Mr. Lord's protested bills came under consideration. The

circumstances of the case are briefly as follows:--Mr. Lord's

sincere desire and zeal to promote the interests of the Institution

and Connexion generally, were admitted and appreciated by all the

brethren; but it appears, 1. That a large portion of the debts were

incurred in compliance with the advice of Mr. Lord, and in

consequence of his influence as the representative of the British

Connexion. He assured the Sub-Committee at Cobourg that money

should be forthcoming, and if necessary he would go to England and

beg it, that John Bull never stopped when he commenced a thing,

etc.; that Mr. Lord did that contrary to the recommendation of the

Conference Committee, and against the advice and even remonstrance

of the Chairman of the District (John Ryerson), who had been

appointed by the Conference to see that the Sub-Committee should

not exceed the appropriations of the Conference, as they had done

in former years. 2. The premises were mortgaged to Mr. Lord as

security for the sum of £2500, some of which has not been advanced,

and the payments of which he did advance were provided for (with

the exception of two or three hundred pounds) by the brethren in

this Province. 3. After Mr. Lord received information from the

Committee in London that his bills would not be honoured, he called

a meeting of the Board--stated his difficulties--got individuals to

allow him to draw upon them to meet the bills on their return, and

sent me to England. 4. Mr. Lord assured our Conference at

Belleville, June, 1836, that the brethren here would never be

called upon to pay a farthing of the damages for non-payment of his

bills. I believe that no man could feel more earnestly desirous to

promote the interests of the Canadian Connexion in every respect

than he did. It is also the full conviction of our leading brethren

that had I attended the American General Conference, instead of

being in England, such an arrangement would have been made as to

have secured to our Connexion what was due us from the New York

Book Concern--which amounts to more than I obtained in England,

besides the mortification and mental suffering which I experienced

in my most unpleasant engagements, notwithstanding the sympathy and

never-to-be-forgotten kindness of many of my fathers and brethren

of the parent Connexion.

FOOTNOTES:

[48] Sir J. Campbell, afterwards Chief Justice, and Sir R. M. Rolfe,

afterwards a Baron of the Exchequer.

CHAPTER XVII.

1836.

Publication of The Hume and Roebuck Letters.

In a letter from London, dated 29th April, 1836, Dr. Ryerson said:--

This day week I went to the House of Commons to hear the debates on the

motions relative to the Canadas, of which Messrs. Roebuck and Hume had

given notice. As Mr. Roebuck was about to bring forward his motion, the

House of 202 members thinned to 50 or 60 members. Under these

circumstances he postponed it for a week, in the hope that a sufficient

number of members would give him an opportunity to make a speech in

return for the £1,100 a year paid to him as Agent of "the poor and

oppressed Canadians." When Mr. Hume brought forward his motion there

were only 43 members present. I thought how much Canada was benefitted

by such men who could only command the attention of 50 out of the 658

members of the House of Commons! I know not a man more disliked and

despised by all parties in the House than is Mr. Roebuck--a man who has

been employed to establish (as he says in one of his letters to Mr.

Papineau) a "pure democracy in the Canadas." One of the serious

drawbacks to the credit and interests of our country, amongst public and

business men of all parties in England, is their supposed connection

with such a restless political cynic as Mr. Roebuck, and such an

acknowledged and avowed colonial separationist as Mr. Hume.

In regard to these proceedings of Messrs. Hume and Roebuck, Dr. Ryerson

writes, in this part of the Story of his Life, as follows:--

It was during the early part of 1836 that I was accosted by almost every

gentleman to whom I was introduced in England with words, "You in Canada

are going to separate from England, and set up a republic for

yourselves!" I denied that there was any such feeling among the people

of Canada, who desired certain reforms, and redress of grievances, but

were as loyal as any people in England.

After the Canadian elections of 1836, Dr. Charles Duncombe (afterwards

leader of the rebels in the County of Oxford) came to England, the

bearer of petitions got up by Mr. W. L. Mackenzie and his partizans and

crammed Mr. Hume to make a formidable assault upon the British Canadian

Government. In presenting the Canadian petition Mr. Hume made an

elaborate speech, full of exaggerations and mis-statements from

beginning to end. I was requested to take a seat under the gallery, and,

while Mr. Hume was speaking as the mouth-piece of Dr. C. Duncombe, I

furnished Lord Sandon and Mr. W. E. Gladstone with the materials for

answers to Mr. Hume's mis-statements. Mr. Gladstone's quick perception,

with Lord Sandon's promptings, kept the House in a roar of laughter at

Mr. Hume's expense for more than an hour; the wonder being how Mr.

Gladstone was so thoroughly informed on Canadian affairs. No member of

the House of Commons seemed to be more astonished and confounded than

Mr. Hume himself. He made no reply, and, as far as I know, never after

spoke on Canadian affairs; and Mr. Roebuck soon ceased to be Agent for

the Lower Canada House of Assembly. He has since become an ultra

Conservative!

In a letter from London, dated 1st June, Dr. Ryerson says:--

Before Dr. Duncombe arrived in England, and seeing how much injury was

being done to the reputation and influence of Canada by these

representations, I commenced a series of letters in the London _Times_,

designed to expose the machinations and mis-statements of Messrs. Hume

and Roebuck in England, in regard to matters in Upper Canada, showing

from their own letters to Messrs. Papineau and Mackenzie that they were

the first prompters of the project.[49] To-day I also addressed a letter

to Sir George Grey, Under-Secretary for the Colonies, on the political

crisis in that Province. After discussing several matters relating to

the recent election of a new House of Assembly, I concluded as

follows:--As the affairs of the Province will now be taken into

consideration by His Majesty's Government, there are three subjects on

which I would respectfully request an interview with Lord Glenelg,

yourself, and Mr. [Sir James] Stephen. 1. The Clergy Reserve question--a

plan to meet the circumstances of the Province, and yet not deprive the

clergy of the Church of England of an adequate support. 2. The

Legislative Council--how it may be rendered more influential and

popular, without rendering it elective, or infringing (but rather

strengthening) the prerogatives of the Crown. 3. The Executive--how its

just authority, influence and popularity may be promoted and

established, so as to prevent the occurrence of that embarrassment in

which it is now involved, not from improper acts, but from an actual

deficiency of the requisite operative means to secure the Royal

Prerogative from insult and invasion. I am aware that each of these

subjects is surrounded with difficulty, and that no plan proposed will

be entirely free from objection, but I should like to state the views

which my acquaintance with the Province has impressed on my own mind,

and which I have not seen suggested in any official document or public

journal, but which have been favourably thought of by two or three

respectable gentlemen connected with Canada, to whom I have stated them.

In reply, Lord Glenelg appointed the following Monday for the desired

interview. I afterwards embodied the substance of my views in a letter

to Sir George Grey.

No further reference is made to this interview by Dr. Ryerson. But in a

letter from him, dated 21st July, he says:--

I was applied to, and did, in my individual capacity, communicate

to the Colonial Secretary frequently, and in one or two instances

at great length, on the posture of Canadian affairs; and the

parties and principal questions which have divided and agitated the

Canadian public. I repeatedly received the thanks of the Secretary

of State for the Colonies, for the pains which I had taken in these

matters; but what influence my communications may have had, or may

have, on the policy of His Majesty's Government towards the Canadas

is not for me to say, as I desired Lord Glenelg not to assume,

_prima facie_, as correct, any of my representations, but to

examine my authorities--to weigh my arguments--to hear what could

be said by others--as I had no friends to recommend to office, and

no personal interests to promote, only the religious and general

peace and prosperity of the Canadas, and the maintenance of a firm

and mutually beneficial connection between these Colonies and the

parent State.

I think I have good reason to believe that much more correct and

decided views are entertained by His Majesty's ministers and many

public men in England, in respect to the interests and government

of the Canadas, than were possessed by them six months ago; and

that all of those inhabitants of the Colonies, who patriotically

maintain their Christian and constitutional allegiance, will ensure

the respect, equal and firm protection, and parental regard of

their Sovereign and his government, by whatever party it may be

administered.

In a letter from London, dated 26th July (page 154), Dr. Ryerson

says:--Mr. William Lunn, of Montreal, has just arrived from Quebec. He

informs me that--

My letters to the London _Times_, on Hume and Roebuck, have

produced the most amazing effect upon the public mind of the

Province, of anything that I ever wrote. To the Lord be all the

praise for his great goodness, after all our toil and suffering.

There is nothing like integrity of principle and faithfulness in

duty, in humble dependence upon the Lord, and with an eye to His

glory!

FOOTNOTES:

[49] The British North American Association of Merchants had these

letters reprinted from _The Times_ newspaper, and a copy sent to each

member of Parliament, both of the Lords and Commons. They were signed,

"A Canadian."

CHAPTER XVIII.

1836-1837.

Important Events Transpiring in Upper Canada.

Dr. Ryerson was absent in England from 20th November, 1835, to 12th

June, 1837. On the 15th of January, 1836, Sir John Colborne, by order in

Council, endowed fifty-seven Rectories in Upper Canada out of the Clergy

Reserve Lands. On the 23rd of that month Sir F. B. Head, the new

Governor, arrived in Toronto. On the 14th of January following, he

opened the Session of the Legislature. What followed was reported to Dr.

Ryerson by his friend, Mr. S. S. Junkin, in a letter, dated, Toronto,

1st May:--

Our Parliament was prorogued on the 20th April, after such a

session as was never before known in Upper Canada. You will form

some idea of the state of affairs when I tell you that it "stopped

the supplies," and the Governor reserved all of the money bills,

(twelve)--including that for the contingences of the House,--for

the King's pleasure.

The immediate cause of the rupture between the new Governor (Sir F. B.

Head) and the House of Assembly--

Arose out of the resignation of the Executive Council. On the 20th

February, the Governor (as directed by Lord Glenelg) added three

Reformers to his Council, viz.: Messrs. Robert Baldwin, John Rolph,

and John Henry Dunn. On the 4th March, these gentlemen and the

Conservative members, (Messrs. Peter Robinson, George H. Markland,

and Joseph Wells) resigned. They complained that they were held

responsible for measures which they never advised, and for a policy

to which they were strangers. In reply the Governor stated in

substance that he alone was responsible for the acts of his

government, and was at liberty to have resource to their advice

only when he required it; but that to consult them on all questions

would be "utterly impossible." This answer was referred to a

Committee of the House of Assembly, which brought in a report

censuring the Governor in the strongest terms. On the 14th March,

Sir F. B. Head appointed Messrs. R. B. Sullivan, William Allan,

Augustus Baldwin, and John Elmsley, as his new Executive Council.

On the 17th the House declared its entire want of confidence in the

new Council, and stated that in retaining them the Governor

violated the instructions of the Colonial Secretary to the

Governor, to appoint Councillors who possessed the confidence of

the people. Much recrimination followed; at length Sir F. B. Head

dissolved the House, and directed that a new election be held.

In regard to this election, Dr. Ryerson, in the "Epochs of Canadian

Methodism" (page 226) says:--

Sir F. B. Head adroitly turned the issue, not on the question of

the Clergy Reserves, or of other practical questions, but on the

question of connection with the mother country, and of

Republicanism vs. Monarchy, as had been recommended by Messrs. Hume

and Roebuck, and advocated by Messrs. Mackenzie and Papineau. This

was successful, inasmuch as those Reformers who would not disavow

their connection with Messrs. Mackenzie, Hume and Roebuck, lost

their election; for though not more than half a dozen had any

sympathy with the sentiments of Messrs. Hume, Roebuck, Papineau,

and Mackenzie, they did not wish to break the unity of the Reform

party by repudiating them, and suffered defeat in consequence at

the elections. The successful candidates, generally, while they

repudiated Republican separation from the mother country, promised

fidelity to the oft-expressed and well-known wishes of the people

in the settlement of the Clergy Reserve question, which, however,

they failed to fulfil.

In a letter to Dr. Ryerson, from Hallowell, his brother William said:--

Our loyal address, a very moderate one, to the Governor, was

carried unanimously--all the young Preachers on trial being allowed

to vote on that occasion. This is equally gratifying and surprising

to all the friends of British supremacy. A gentleman from Montreal,

who was present, was so surprised, and I may say, delighted, that

he could hardly contain himself. I did not know for a short time,

but he would be constrained from the violence of his feeling to

jump up and shout. The Conference also adopted a very good address

to the King. (See page 162.)

We are on the eve of a new election. The excitement through the

country at large exceeds anything I have ever known. There would be

very little cause for doubt or fear as to the results, were it not

for one of the last acts of Sir John Colborne's administration, in

establishing and endowing nearly sixty Rectories. Knowing, as I do,

that the public mind is strongly opposed to any measure of that

sort, or any step towards legalizing a church establishment, yet I

could not believe the feeling was so strong as it actually is. If

the elections should turn out disastrously to the best interest of

the country, the result can only be attributed to that unjust and

most unpolitic act. We are willing to do all that we consistently

can, but everywhere the rectory question meets us. While I am

compelled to believe that a vast majority are devotedly loyal to

our gracious Sovereign, yet the best and most affectionate subjects

of the King would almost prefer revolution to the establishment of

a dominant Church thus sought to be imposed on us.

In a letter to Dr. Ryerson, from Toronto, his brother John says:--

The late elections agitated the Societies very much in some places,

but they are now settling down to "quietness and assurance." I hope

that the worst of the storm is over. The Governor is a talented

man, but very little magisterial dignity about him. He takes good

care to let every one know that _he_ esteems every day alike,

travelling on Sabbaths the same as other days. Indeed he seems to

have no idea of religion at all, but is purely a man of pleasure.

His popularity will soon be upon the wane if he does not mend in

these respects.

The friends in Kingston are very anxiously looking for your return,

and are becoming quite discontented and out of patience. They

complained bitterly to me of your long absence, and were anxious to

have me stay with them until you return.

CHAPTER XIX.

1837-1839.

Return to Canada.--The Chapel Property Cases.

In this part of the "Story" of his life, Dr. Ryerson has only left the

following sentence:--At the Conference held after my return to Canada,

in June, I declined re-election as Editor of the _Christian Guardian_,

having promised my Kingston brethren, from whom I had been suddenly

removed in November, 1835, that I would remain with them at least one

year on my return from England.

After Conference, Dr. Ryerson (with Rev. E. Healy) attended as a

deputation to the Black River Conference. He said:--

The Conference was presided over by Bishop Hedding, who, in strong

and affecting language, expressed his feelings of respect and love

for our Connexion in Canada. In reply, I reiterated the expression

of our profound respect and affection for our honoured friend and

father in the Gospel; by the imposition of whose hands, I, and

several other brethren in Canada, have been set apart to the Holy

Ministry. After my return to Kingston, brother Healy and I received

from the Black River Conference a complimentary resolution in

regard to our visit. In enclosing it to me, Rev. Jesse T. Peck, the

Secretary [afterwards Bishop], said:--Allow me humbly, but

earnestly, to beg a continuance of that friendship with you, which

in its commencement has afforded me so much pleasure.

In August of this year, 1837, the celebrated trial of the Waterloo

Chapel case[50] took place before Mr. Justice Macaulay, at the Kingston

Assizes, and a verdict was given against the Wesleyan Methodists. It was

subsequently appealed to the Court of King's Bench, at Toronto. Three

elaborate judgments were delivered on the case. Rev. John Ryerson was a

good deal exercised as to the ill effects, upon the connexional church

property, of Judge Macaulay's adverse decision. In a letter to Dr.

Ryerson, he said:--

We are much troubled and perplexed, here in Toronto, about the

Waterloo Chapel case. I saw the Attorney-General on the subject

to-day. When Judge Macaulay's judgment is published, I hope you

will carefully review the whole matter, and lay the thing before

the public in such a way as to produce conviction. Everybody is

inquiring whether or not you will take up the subject.

An appeal was made to the King's Bench at Toronto. This Court--

Set aside the verdict of the lower Court, and ordered a new

trial.... At this second trial, as also that respecting the

Belleville Church property case, [November, 1837], ... the whole

matter was "ventilated," and the result was that the legal decision

of the highest judicial tribunal of the land confirmed the Wesleyan

Methodist Church as the rightful owner of the Church property, it

being the true representative and successor of the original

Methodist Episcopal Church in Canada. These litigations extended

over more than two years, and the friends of Zion and of peace

greatly rejoiced when they were brought to a just and final

settlement. (Epochs of Canadian Methodism, pages 278, 279.)

In regard to these three judgments on the case, Dr. Ryerson said:--

During the latter part of this month I have devoted such time as I

could spare to a lengthened review for the _Guardian_, of the

elaborate judgments of Chief Justice Robinson, and Justices

Macaulay and Sherwood, on the Waterloo Chapel case.[51] The opinion

of the Chief Justice displays profound research, acute

discrimination, and sound judgment. The opinion of Mr. Justice

Macaulay indicates great labour and strict religious scrupulosity.

The opinion of Mr. Justice Sherwood betrays great want of

acquaintance with the discipline, usages, and general history of

Methodism. To the Methodist Connexion the conflict of opinion and

confusion of reasoning of these learned judges are most prejudicial

and disastrous. I have therefore sought, in the "review," to set

forth the true facts of this abstruse case--facts connected with

the history of Methodism--facts, with the most material of which I

am personally acquainted, and in the progress of which I have been

called to act a conspicuous part.

In regard to this "review," Rev. E. Healy wrote to Dr. Ryerson, from

Brockville, and said:--

I have read your review of the opinion of the judges, and am happy

to see it. What the judges will do with you, I do not know. You are

considered, I believe, by some in this part of the country, as part

man and part demon. This is one reason, doubtless, why I am also so

bad a man, as I have said so much in your favour.

Rev. Hannibal Mulkins,[52] writing from Whitby on this subject, said:--

The agitation which was anticipated by some of the preachers at the

last Conference, and which has existed in some degree has happily

subsided, notwithstanding the most vigorous efforts have been made,

and all the arts of calumny and misrepresentation, employed to

harrass, to worry, and devour.

I was very glad to see your "review" of the opinions of the Judges

in the Chapel case. I have read it with much satisfaction. On this

circuit, notwithstanding the prejudices of some individuals, it has

been perused with general delight, and to our friends in particular

it has been highly satisfactory.

Dr. Ryerson, in a letter from New York, dated November, 1837, says:--

I have just returned from an extended tour of about 500 miles in

the Middle and Southern States, in order to obtain information and

evidence relative to the organization of the Methodist Church in

America, the character of its Episcopacy, and the powers of the

General Conference--points which involve the issue of our chapel

property case. From the mass of testimony and information I have

been able to collect, by seeing every preacher in this continent

who was in the work in 1784, relative to the character of Methodist

Episcopacy, and the powers of the General Conference, I feel no

doubt as to the result.[53]

Rev. Joseph Stinson, in making his report on the same subject, said:--

I spent a whole day with Bishop Hedding, and had much conversation

with him about our affairs generally. He told me that the American

Methodist Church had never regarded Episcopacy as a Divine

ordinance--nor as an essential doctrine of the Church--but as an

expedient form of ecclesiastical government, which could be

modified by the General Conference, or even dispensed with without

violating the great principles of Methodism. The Bishop is of the

opinion, however, that if our Courts decide against us, we shall

have to return to Episcopacy, and that the first Bishop should be

ordained by the Bishops of the American Church.

Dr. Ryerson, in the same November letter, says:--

I have also accompanied Mr. Stinson to render him what assistance I

could, in examining Manual Labour Schools, with a view to

establishing one for the benefit of our Indian youth--an object of

the very greatest importance, both to the religious and civil

interests of our aboriginal fellow countrymen. Also to get from the

New York Missionary Board a sum of money for the Indian work which

was expected from them before our Union with the English

Conference.

In a letter to Dr. Alder, written from New York in the same month, Dr.

Ryerson said:--

The concern of our preachers and friends on the Chapel case is deep

and truly affecting. As I took so responsible a part in the Union,

I cannot describe my feelings on this question. At the request of

our brethren I have undertaken to do what I could to secure our

Church property from the party claiming it. I have travelled nearly

500 miles this week for that purpose. But it is cheering amidst all

our difficulties, and the commotions of the political elements,

that our preachers, I believe, without exception, are of one

heart--that our societies are in peace--that the work of our

blessed Lord is reviving in many of the circuits, although the

cause in Kingston suffers, and my dear brethren there complain, in

consequence of my connexional engagements and absence from them.

FOOTNOTES:

[50] Between the Episcopal and Wesleyan Methodists for the possession of

the Church property. Waterloo was four miles north of Kingston.

[51] The Review is inserted in the _Guardian_, vol. viii., pages

169-178. The Belleville case was published in pamphlet form.

[52] This gentleman entered the Wesleyan ministry in 1835, but joined

the Church of England in 1840. He was for many years Chaplain to the

Penitentiary, at Kingston, and always retained a warm regard for Dr.

Ryerson. He died in 1877, aged 65 years.

[53] The particulars here referred to are given in detail in the "Epochs

of Canadian Methodism," pages 279-281.