Conclusion.

We have made this somewhat extended reference to the subject of unity for the purpose of placing on record the views held by the League as to the true basis of such, the attainment of which is only possible by an adherence on the part of all seeking for it to sound ideas of its constituents. We recognise that within this diocese there are conflicting views regarding the proper means to be adopted for the bringing of our people together upon some common ground leading to unity; but we also recognise that unless some such event can be brought about it may be stated as a certainty that our people will continue in an increasing degree to float into Nonconformity or indifference. But, given a strong lead by one who, from his high office, has the power at least of restraining the actions of clergy and others disposed to indulge in practices which make for disunion, we are not without hope that the laity, strengthened by mutual trust and respect, will willingly follow and support any page 8 effort having for its aim the uniting of all sections of our Church and the restoration of it to that place and influence for good in this community which it possessed in years gone by. Circumstances in the immediate past were not favourable for such a union of hearts and purpose, but with the advent of our new Diocesan those circumstances have changed. Personal determination on the part of all concerned may well be pleaded for at the present juncture to secure peace within our borders.

The Council, upon a review of the whole position, has concluded that, with the object of assisting towards such a desirable end, the League should take the pronounced step of suspending its operations, and thus by example invite members of the Church with whom for some time past we have found it impossible to be in accord concerning some matters, to also consider their position. In any case, whether our example is in any way followed or not, our duty appears manifest, and we will ask members, by resolution to-night, to adopt the course suggested, so that our new Bishop may find himself utterly unhampered, so far as we are concerned, in the big task he has in front of him of evolving full order and satisfaction out of elements now somewhat chaotic and distressful. We are quite alive to the fact that in taking this decided action our motives may, probably, be misconstrued in some quarters, and not to our advantage. This we can afford to let pass. But to those loyal supporters of the League who have come to look for then Churchman, and who. missing it, may possibly feel disposed to think a retrograde step has been taken, we give our full assurance that nothing but the conviction that what we are proposing is called for in the general interest of our Church would have led us to take it. The desire for that welfare must govern all, the mistakes or misgovernment of the past must not be allowed to prevent our seeking better things in the future, and assisting toward that end. May God grant that our hopes in this direction, and for the revival, not only of true Churchmanship, but of real Godliness in our diocese are about to be vouchsafed to us.