The reports from the churches showed a very encouraging condition of things. One new church has been organized during the year, making a total of thirteen within the bounds of the State. All are, at present, supplied with ministers. Almost all reported additions on profession of faith, and evidence of the special presence of the Spirit. Though it has not been a year of remarkable revivals, it has been one of hopeful and vigorous growth. The feeling seemed general and strong, that these little churches have “come to stay” in Alabama, and have no idea of dying whatsoever. A great deal of missionary activity was reported. Talladega College sustains twenty-five Sabbath-schools; Montgomery and Selma, four each; and others are not behind, according to their means and opportunities. It is certainly a suggestive and encouraging fact that, in the very heart of Alabama, a body of men could come together so full of enthusiasm for Puritan ideas, and should, without exception, report that their hold upon the communities in which they labor is manifestly strengthening. The Sunday-school Convention opened Monday night, with an address on “The Object of Sunday-school Effort, Winning Souls,” by Rev. George E. Hill, of Marion; followed by a lecture on the “Geography of the kingdom of Judah,” by Rev. G. W. Andrews. Tuesday, Mr. Clark, of Selma, gave a Bible Reading on Faith; Prof. Lord taught the lesson for the following Sunday; Mr. Hickok opened the question box, and gave a variety of helpful answers; and the delegates from the different Sunday-schools made their reports. These showed that the work of our churches rests on a good foundation, in numerous live, growing Sabbath-schools; and that, in trying to save as many as possible of the present generation, the men and women of the next thirty years are not being forgotten. Tuesday night, the Theological Institute began with a very elaborate paper on the “Relation of Mental Philosophy to Theology,” by Rev. D. W. Hickok. Wednesday, we were treated with examinations in Smith’s O. T. History, and the Psalms, conducted by Prof. Andrews and Mr. Hickok, and a paper on “Future Punishment,” by Rev. Mr. Hill. Thursday, there were plans of sermons offered for criticism by Mr. Clark and Mr. Hickok; a paper on “Joseph Cook,” by Mr. Noble; and an examination on the “Patriarchal Period,” by Mr. Andrews; closing with a free conference of workers in the evening.