“A grand hymn of faith” is the characterization given by Bishop Bickersteth of this poem. Written in 1834, and printed as a leaflet, it was later included in the author’s _Hymns of Praise_, 1836, entitled, “The Immutable Basis of a Sinner’s Hope.” The hymn is reminiscent of the words of Paul: “Other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ” (I Cor. 3:11). Edward Mote, born in London, worked as a cabinet-maker for some years but at length entered the ministry and from 1852 until his death in 1874 served the Baptist Church at Horsham, Essex. The refrain of this hymn came into his mind one morning as he was walking up Holborn Hill on his way to work. Four stanzas were completed that day and two more were added the following Sunday. _MUSIC._ SOLID ROCK. For comments on the composer of this tune, Wm. B. Bradbury, see Hymn 103. 488. ’Tis so sweet to trust in Jesus _Louisa M. R. Stead_ A hymn of simple trust. Information concerning the author, Louisa M. R. Stead, has not been traced. _MUSIC._ TRUSTING was composed for these words by the gospel singer and composer, Wm. J. Kirkpatrick, 1838-1921. For comments on Kirkpatrick see Hymn 334. 489. What a fellowship, what a joy divine _Elisha A. Hoffman_ For comments on the author, Elisha A. Hoffman, see Hymn 464. _MUSIC._ LEANING ON JESUS was composed by Anthony J. Schowalter, who was born at Cherry Grove, Pa., May 1, 1858. The following from his pen tells the story of the origin of this hymn and tune: While I was conducting a singing-school at Hartsells, Alabama, I received a letter from two of my former pupils in South Carolina, conveying the sad intelligence that on the same day each of them had buried a wife. I tried to console them by writing a letter that might prove helpful in their hour of sadness. Among other Scriptures, I quoted this passage, “Underneath are the everlasting arms.” Before completing the writing of the sentence, the thought came to me that the fact that we may lean on these everlasting arms and find comfort and strength, ought to be put in a song; and before finishing that letter, the words and music of the refrain were written. The manuscript was sent to Elisha Hoffman ... in a few days his completion of the poem was received. 490. Jesus, keep me near the cross _Fanny J. Crosby_, 1820-1915 A hymn on “the cross.” The refrain suggests the words of Paul: “God forbid that I should glory save in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Gal. 6:14). This is another instance in which the words of the blind hymn writer and the music of Mr. Doane were combined to make a popular gospel song. For comments on Fanny Crosby and Wm. H. Doane, composer of the tune, see Hymn 313. 491. Nearer the cross _Fanny Crosby_, 1820-1915 For comments on the author of these words, Fanny Crosby, see Hymn 313. For Mrs. J. F. Knapp, composer of the tune, see Hymn 480.