CANADIAN WRITERS 285 



The novel has found a champion in Sir Gilbert 

 Parker, who, Canadian born, has made London his 

 home. On historical basis he weaves cunning plots 

 shot with charming romance. 



With him may be associated names less familiar 

 but distinctively contributory to the deepening and 

 broadening literary source, such as Miss Dougall and 

 Mrs. Coates. 



The novel with a purpose has found its chief 

 advocate in Ralph Connor (Rev. C. W. Gordon). 

 The caiion of the Rocky Mountains, the setting 

 of the lumber camp, the lode gold streak in the 

 miner's rough nature are his themes, and skilful has 

 been the handling, as of one who has his vision of 

 the coming of the Divine Kingdom and prepares for 

 it a way amongst the increasing inroads into the 

 Golden West. 



Canada is moving towards the realization of all 

 the institutions that make for a people's stability and 

 worth. Her religious zeal is marked in commodious 

 churches, and the catholicity of her mission in a 

 movement towards union. Already Presbyterians, 

 Methodists, and Congregationalists have cast an 

 overwhelming vote in favour of the formation of the 

 " United Church of Canada." Like her streams 

 near their source, that have travelled separately 

 and independently, they seek a new power and 

 strength by merging in one, and sweeping onward 

 toward a common goal. 



