There is perhaps no ordinance of the Christian church more highly interesting to a casual observer, and more fraught with hallowed associations to a devout mind, than the rite of baptism, when it is administered in the manner corresponding with the Word of God. This is particularly the case at Snowhill, where everything is in such perfect keeping and character. The candidates for baptism being previously examined and accepted as suitable subjects for that holy ordinance by the pastors, an announcement to that effect is made to the congregation. They are then suitably attired, and all repair, forming a procession, to the baptistery, where a thronging multitude is generally assembled. Here the scene is extremely solemn and affecting, and all nature appears to sympathize in the deep solemnity. Even the sunlight, as it bathes the verdant hillside, the smooth meadow, and the golden orchards in a flood of glory, seems to partake a softer radiance. A hundred snowy clouds appear here and there on the blue heaven above, and it requires no great stretch of the imagination to fancy that behind or upon them the waving wings of seraphs have been furled, and that forms of ineffable beauty are bending there, and watching with interest the dedication of souls to God. A flood of hallowed associations comes rushing into the mind. We think of Jordan, of the multitudes who gathered upon its banks, and who were baptized "confessing their sins." The venerable appearance of the Baptist, that first preacher of the kingdom of God. And then the Great High Priest of our Salvation, who came hither to set an example for his servants in all coming time. But this pleasing revery is broken by the voice of the pastor. A hymn is given out; and then from the midst of the company arises a deep, full, melodious swell of harmony. It is unlike singing; it seems the very soul of heavenly music breathing out an ecstasy of thanksgiving. The music ceases; a low soft echo breathes through the air, so lately living with sweet sounds, and over the waters; again all is silent. The pastor now stretches out his hands, and lifts his eyes to heaven: "Let us pray." Some kneel, others remain standing, but all assume the look and action of devout humility. The prayer ended, the pastor descends into the pool; the candidate, assisted by a brother or sister, descends after him. Reaching the lower step, he takes her, if a sister, by the left arm, and leads her down to a suitable depth, where she kneels in the water. She applies water to her face, and he does the same to the back of her head, waiting a moment for her to recover her thoughts and acquire a frame of mind suitable for the occasion. Then, laying his left hand upon the forepart of her head, and his right hand upon the back between the shoulders, he says, "I baptize thee in the name of the Father," and immerses the candidate, face foremost; then, raising her up to her former position, he gives time for