180 A HALF CENTURY. 



close as in earlier days, because of the formation of the Middlesex Con- 

 ference. Yet I have not ceased to admire the steady growth of this 

 noble organization along all lines of Christian effort. That the last 

 decade of your history has surpassed in not a few of its results its 

 third decade, is ample witness to the skill and the fidelity of him in 

 whose ministrations you have now rejoiced for almost fifteen years. 



" Better fifty years of Europe than a cycle of Cathay," sang the 

 lamented Tennyson. Better fifty years of such a royal church as this 

 than a cycle of some of the venerable institutions of the Old World, 

 strong though they are in alliance with the state, and rich as they are 

 in wealth of traditions and in grandeur of imposing liturgies. This 

 church has grown by prayer in all its departments. But for its cease- 

 less petitions, its labors would not have been so abundant nor so 

 fruitful. 



It was my privilege to extend to your pastor the right hand of 

 fellowship when he entered upon his successful ministry here. I wish 

 now to repeat the welcome and the good wishes of that happy inaugu- 

 ration. Long may his bow^ abide in its strength for the Master's ser- 

 vice ! And may he, too, 



" See his Pilot face to face, 

 When he has crossed the bar.'' 



Take this right hand, ray brother, and ever be of good cheer. 



" For still we hope 

 That in a world of larger scope, 

 What here is faithfully begun 

 Will be completed, not undone." 



The pastor received this right hand of fellowship, so unex- 

 pectedly given, both for himself and for the church, grateful 

 beyond expression for these cheering and stimulating fraternal 

 greetings. 



After singing '' Blest be the tie that binds," the benediction 

 was pronounced by the Rev. Horace Winslow of Simsbury. 



