4"; 
REPORT. XXXV 
to the solemn act of episcopal consecration of sacramental vessels which it is to 
be hoped may soon be again the rule, and not the exception. That well-known 
theologian, Dr. Forbes, the late Bishop of Brechin, was in the habit of thus 
consecrating, after the ancient forms, Church Plate and other matters pertain- 
ing to the altar; a portable altar slab that received consecration at his hands 
is now in use in this county. 
With this sentence I proposed to close this paper, but three days ago I 
received information that enables me to give a still more recent instance of 
episcopal consecration, or solemn dedication of Church Plate—an instance of 
peculiar interest to us of this Society, as our Right Reverend Vice-President, 
who has honoured us by occupying the chair to-day, dedicated a few months 
ago some altar vessels at Gailey Church, near Penkridge, according to the 
form of consecrating plate drawn up by Bishop Andrewes, with a few slight 
alterations. * 
Finally—not so much for the information of those parsons and wardens who 
have proved their interest in the matter by coming here to-day, but as a warn- 
ing to those officials who are responsible for the custody of Church Plate, but 
apparently think it a matter of but slight moment—I wish to state that, to the 
best of my belief, the sale, the exchange, or even the re-casting of Church 
Plate without a faculty is illegal. 
At the conclusion of Mr. Cox’s paper, the Bishop said—‘“ This 
was the first time since he came into the diocese that he had been 
able to attend a meeting not directly connected with Church 
matters; he was very glad to attend this meeting, because he 
thought the objects of the Society were as interesting and as 
profitable for their thoughts and leisure as they could possibly be. 
The study of nature was most elevating as being the reverent 
contemplation of the handiwork of the Great Creator. The study 
of archzeology was very instructive, combining the study of history 
and art; it acts as a very wholesome corrective to nineteenth 
century self-esteem. Comparing the exquisite architectural 
remains to be found in this country with modern attempts, we 
must confess that the palm is to be awarded to past generations. 
He yentured to believe that the present very strong utilitarian 
spirit was too much inclined to do away with the devotional spirit 
* ** The Order of Consecrating Plate for the Altar,” in Andrewes’ Mixor Works, Library of 
Anglo-Catholic Theology. In addition to the consecration of paten, chalice, and flagons, 
it provides forms for the consecrating of the altar candlesticks, and also for the censer for 
burning incense. 
