"  I  feel  also  the  unsectarian  nature  of  this  boon,  as  it  has  come  from
churchmen  and  dissenters,  and  from  the  various  religious  parties  for  whom
I  have  often  preached,  and  for  whom  I  have  always  prayed,  saying,  '  Grace
be  with  all  them  that  love  our  Lord  Jesus  Christ  in  sincerity ;'  for,  '  who-
soever shall  do  the  will  of  my  Father  which  is  in  heaven,  the  same  is  my
mother,  and  sister,  and  brother.'

"  From  the  rank  and  office  of  some  of  the  contributors,  in  Church  and
State,  perhaps  it  may  be  expected,  that  there  should  be  a  more  distinct
acknowledgment.  I  am  very  willing  to  render  to  them  the  praise  which
is  their  due ;  but  you  will  allow  me  to  say,  I  have  been  most  affected  with
the  poor  of  my  flock ;  and  nothing  will  so  long  remain  written  on  the
fleshly  table  of  my  heart  as  the  generosity  of  one  individual  who  presented


THE  JUBILEE  CELEBRATION.  211

sixpence  to  one  of  my  deacons,  adding,  '  I  only  wish  it  were  a  hundred
pounds.'

"  I  have  only  one  thing  more  to  add.  I  take  this  purse,  and  I  present  it
to  you,  madam,  [addressing  Mrs.  Jay,  in  whose  hands  he  placed  the  purse
amidst  the  warm  applause  of  the  company,) — I  present  it  to  you,  madam,
who  have  always  kept  my  purse,  and,  therefore,  it  has  heen  so  well  kept.
Consider  it  as  entirely  sacred  to  your  pleasure,  your  use,  your  service,  your
comfort.  I  know  this  has  been  perfectly  unexpected  by  you,  but  it  is  also
perfectly  deserved  by  you.
