9. Another old parochial office was that of beadle--the bidder, crier, or messenger of the parish--whose duty was to attend in that capacity on the incumbent, churchwardens, and vestry. His position and duties were rather civil than ecclesiastical, but the vestry could sanction his salary being paid out of the church rate. He was also frequently employed to keep order in the church and churchyard during Divine service; and the Church Building Act, 1831, enumerates the payment of the salaries of beadles and pew-openers as well as of the clerk, as one of the expenses incidental to the performance of Divine service, to be paid out of the rents of pews in churches built under that Act.[157] 10. The organist and choristers, and any other lay officials beyond those already mentioned, who may be employed in or about the church or churchyard, are under the exclusive control and direction of the incumbent, and, as a rule, are appointed by him. But in some parishes the organist is, or was, when paid out of the church rate, selected by the vestry. Whether he is appointed by them or by the incumbent, his office is not a freehold; but he as well as the other officials now under consideration may be dismissed from office on proper notice, the length of which should be laid down at the time of appointment. If no time is then fixed, the proper length of notice may, in case of dispute, be a very difficult question to decide. It will depend in part on the terms of the engagement, and of the salary. If the salary be so much per month, probably one month's notice of dismissal would suffice. Not less than three months' notice would be requisite if the salary is so much per quarter; while if the salary is an annual sum, even this notice might perhaps be insufficient. Whatever be the mode of appointment and terms of the engagement of the organist, the incumbent has, within the bounds of legality, and so far as he does not voluntarily surrender it, the absolute right to control the use of the organ and the performance of music in the church, both during Divine service and at other times.[158] But, unless he is prepared to defray the cost out of his own pocket, this right must, of course, in practice, be limited by the extent to which the parishioners or congregation are willing to give the necessary financial support to his arrangements.