The money, too, that comes from unwilling hands needs consecration. Many of the dimes and quarters that keep the deacons so long after the service laboriously counting, had they voices and permission to speak, would tell a story complimentary neither to the generosity nor benevolence of their donors. They would say: “We are here chiefly because the contribution box was passed, and our donors did not like to appear niggardly. The hand that dropped us was so held that the man passing the box could not see us had he wished to, but we made quite a noise as we clinked down into our places, and by our clatter produced an impression that there was a good deal more to us than there is.” The hypocrisy entering into this portion of the contribution needs casting out by prayer. Another good would be secured by the offering of a consecrating prayer when benevolent offerings are made in the churches. The contribution box would be held in worthy esteem as a genuine means of grace. By many it is so held; it should be by all. It is no intruder in the sanctuary; it has the sanction of Divine appointment, and is the necessary outgrowth of “pure religion and undefiled” in the heart. Its visits to the pews should be hailed with delight, for it brings even a greater blessing to the giver than it carries away to the receiver. Still, it is not thus welcomed by every one. Indeed, such an aversion have some people to it that an announcement a week beforehand that it is to be used, is to make certain that Sunday will find them sick. The nature of the contribution-box sickness need not be particularly inquired into, but “indisposition” is a good-sounding word with which to designate it, and it is so elastic in meaning withal, that it can be made to stretch over into the domain of conscience. Yet a very serious sickness it is, and should be so regarded. Next to willingness and ability, is opportunity to do good. To turn away from the opportunity is to confess unwillingness; and such confession, the Apostle James unqualifiedly affirms, is denial of having love to God. Indisposition, therefore, means, on apostolic authority, that the love of God dwells not in the heart. I desire to commend the example of the Ohio pastor to all pastors who desire to increase the benevolent contributions of their churches. Let the contributions be consecrated by special prayer. It interferes with no method that may be in use to take contributions. It will impart new power to all.—_Advance._ * * * * * THE FREEDMEN. * * * * * TOUGALOO UNIVERSITY, MISSISSIPPI. REV. G. STANLEY POPE. General View.