In parochial matters, and in my ministerial concerns, we go on much as usual. Mr. Purton’s removal has put some extra burdens upon me, but they are not as yet too oppressive, and, if they should become so, the Lord, I doubt not, will give me some one who will share them with me. Attendance on church classes and expositions, nearly in _statu quo_; and this, considering the tendency in everything to deteriorate, I consider as rather encouraging than otherwise. Our good friends and fellow-helpers, the Methodists, however, seem to be more prosperous than ourselves. The chapel at the Green has just been considerably enlarged, and there is some talk of its being opened in church hours, morning as well as evening, and some rumours of sacraments and christenings are now and then reaching my ears. As to myself, I dare say nothing: I am rather disposed to think that the morning service would be a benefit to the parish in inducing many poor to attend, who, through shame or idleness, would not come so far as to the church; and, as they are my parishioners, I hope I should rejoice in their good, though this good should not be conveyed through myself. The sacrament and christenings, in the present state of Methodism, follow almost as a matter of course, and therefore I am equally silent on this subject. All these things were not the original intention of the founder; but were I a Methodist myself, I do not know but that I should consider them as expedient, and almost as necessary parts of present Methodism: why then should I feel on these accounts? They are doing a great work. I find them most important auxiliaries in my own parish, and do sincerely wish them all that prosperity which, for their works’ sake, they deserve. A few months ago, I began to pray for them, and have continued at stated times ever since; and though I never reckoned myself exceedingly stiff in my Churchmanship, I am certainly less so now than before. God permits, and, not only so, he most evidently owns and blesses; and why should we feel the spirit of Joshua, and pettishly, or enviously, or selfishly wish to forbid them? TO THE REV. J. ARMSTRONG. Madeley, Dec. 27, 1820. My dear Friend, * * * * * * * *