Hardly Musical

1899

"What man has done, man can do," is a good motto, but it needs to be interpreted in the light of common sense. Every now and then we hear of a man who takes it to mean that a little perseverance will make a Newton or a Beethoven out of the stupidest of us.

Here is a story connected with Liddell, the somewhat over-positive Dean of Christ Church, borrowed from "The Spectator."

Doctor Corfe, the organist of Christ Church, was at this time sorely plagued by one of the choirmen, whose "alto" singing was miserably bad. He came to the dean.

"Mr. Dean, I really cannot have that man singing any longer. He spoils the whole choir. If only he sang 'bass,' it would not so much matter, but such an 'alto' is intolerable."

"Very well, Doctor Corfe," said the dean, "I will deal with the matter."

So the choirman was sent for.

"Doctor Corfe complains of your singing, and says he cannot have you singing 'alto' any longer; but that it would not be so bad if you sang 'bass.' For the future, therefore, be good enough to sing `bass."

"But, Mr. Dean, I cannot sing 'bass,'" rejoined the man.

"Well," answered Liddell, "I am no musician, but sing 'bass' you must! Good morning."

And for many a year afterward, as can be but too well remembered, the man sang "bass" till he was finally shelved. — Youth's Companion.

Revival Services at Champlin Chapel

Iowa, 1914

The revival services which began Tuesday evening at Champlin chapel, corner of Burton avenue and Riehl street, are growing in interest. The congregations are increasing and every indication points to a successful series.

Among the attractive features is the boys' chorus, composed of thirty boys of the ages of 8 to 14. The boys appeared first last evening, and their singing was an inspiration to all who heard them. They received hearty applause. Rev. E. M. Rhoades is their director and they will sing again tonight.

The stereopticon is being used to illustrate the hymns.

Last evening Dr. John Bunyan Smith preached on "What Must I Do to Be Saved?" Tonight his subject will be "Repentance." Services begin at 7:30, and all are invited.


Linden Revival Services

Rev. F. Q. Brown of St. Paul's church spoke at the Linden Methodist church last night where revivals are in progress. His sermon, on the text, "Who will consecrate himself to this work?" was a powerful one. The speaker made it plain as to what is expected of Christians, and of the reward when they persevere. The orchestra selections and congregational singing were highly enjoyed. Tonight Rev. T. A. Trimble of Mt. Auburn, a former pastor, will preach. He will be assisted by singers from Mt. Auburn. All are invited to attend.

—Waterloo Evening Courier, Waterloo, IA, Jan. 15, 1914, p. 7.