STANWICK - Mr. Spencer Pratt, J.P., of Stanwick, entertained his servants to a liberal Christmas supper and holiday last week, which was thoroughly enjoyed.

BAPTIST CHAPEL NEW YEAR'S MEETING—On Monday last a sale of work and goods remaining on hand from the bazaar held in Midsummer last was held in the schoolroom of this chapel. After the sale a public tea was held, which was well attended.

A Strange Christening at Stanwick

SIR,—Some little time ago when a new shoe manufactory was erected at Raunds a christening service was held, which seemed greatly to shock some pious souls, as bordering on profanity thus to degrade a sacrament of the church. But something quite as revolting seems to have taken place at Stanwick on the completion of the church spire. We are told that a new weathercock, presented by a publican, was christened by a justice of the peace in the presence of a large concourse of the villagers, that a bottle of wine was poured over this hapless bird, after which wine was handed round and the health of the weathercock drunk. We have heard that beer and the Bible have had some connection with each other in the past, here it appears in a new form. I don't know if such a scene as this is depicted in Cruikshank's famous picture of "The worship of Bacchus," representing the many occasions in which strong drink plays a conspicuous part. But, sir, could anything be more ridiculous or more calculated to bring the sacraments of the church into contempt than this?

That a Justice of the Peace and a good churchman should have countenanced such a burlesque as this, and have acted as high priest on the occasion, and on consecrated ground too, only shows how even cultured humanity may go astray. But as this weathercock was the gift of a publican, perhaps it was all in order that it should be deluged with wine before it took its flight from these drink-cursed regions. But if these things are done in the green tree, what shall be done in the dry? If a weathercock is to be deluged with wine because it is to form part of a sacred edifice, why not crack a bottle of wine over a new pulpit, or drink the health of anew font in a bottle of Old Tom? One would be quite as seemly as the other. As long as churchmen indulge in such absurdities as christening and drinking the health of a weathercock, and degrade the sacred rites of the Church in this way, they must not expect to find the sacraments of their Church reverenced by those outside its pale.

Hoping that a sharp frost or a good rain from heaven will soon purify the new weathercock from the effect of its liquor bath,—I am, yours,

CHOIR AND SUNDAY SCHOOL TEACHERS TREAT—On Thursday evening in last week, the Rector, Rev. Dr. Mansfield, entertained the members of the Church choir, Sunday School teachers, and other friends to a capital meat tea, at the Rectory, to which a large number sat down. Rev. Dr. Mansfield, Mrs. Mansfield, and Mrs. Forrester presided at the table, and assiduously attended to the wants of the assembled guests. After a liberal repast a variety of games and stereoscopic scenes were provided for the ladies, while the sterner sex had recourse to draughts and bagatelle. During the evening a selection of glees were sung by the choir, and songs were sung at intervals by Mrs. Wetenhal, Mr. Bridge, Mr. Ward, Mr. Mattinson, and a reading was given by Mr. E. J. Whitney. Mrs. Forrester and Master A. Clark presided alternately at the piano and Mr. A. Clark accompanied on the violin. Refreshments were served up towards the close, after which Dr. Mansfield expressed his pleasure in meeting them, and urged upon the teachers the importance of earnestly continuing in their good work. The hymn, "Sweet Saviour bless us ere we go," and the Doxology terminated the proceedings.

BAPTIST CHAPEL—On Tuesday evening last a service of song entitled "The Ministry of Jesus" was given by the choir in this chapel to a fair audience. The musical portion were nicely rendered and the connective readings were given affectively by the pastor, Rev. B. Holland. Mr. G. Pulpher, of Raunds, presided at the harmonium. A collection was made at the doors towards defraying the expenses incurred by the new warming apparatus for the chapel.

READING ROOM—At a meeting of the committee on Monday evening last, it was proposed to hold a flower show and brass band contest in connection with the reading-room in the village feast week. After some discussion the resolution was put and carried, and a committee was appointed to carry the resolution into effect. Particulars will be announced in due course. The meeting terminated after making some preliminary arrangements.

WESLEYAN CHAPEL— On Sunday last two sermons were preached in the Wesleyan Chapel by the Rev. T. J. Spragg, of Raunds, in connection with the opening of the new harmonium. There were good and appreciative congregations at both services. Collections were made, which amounted to £2 2s. 6d. Master Frank Patrick, pupil of Mr. J. E. Smith, of Rushden, has been appointed to play the new instrument. The proceeds of the tea and service of song, which were held a few weeks ago, together with the £2 2s. 6d. collected at these services, have quite defrayed the cost. Some good vocal and instrumental music was well rendered by the choir, the following taking part:—Mr. John Patrick, clarionette; Mr. Cheney Clark, bass viol; and Mr. Frank Patrick, harmonium.

BAPTIST CHAPEL—On Sunday last, the Sunday School anniversary sermons were preached in this chapel, in the morning by the pastor, the Rev. B. Holland, and in the evening by Rev. W. A. Davis, of Rushden. Good congregations attended the services, and the usual collections were made in aid of the schools. A special selection of hymns was sung by the choir and Sunday scholars. On Monday, the school children had their annual tea in the schoolroom of the chapel. This was followed by a fairly attended public tea. The teachers, children, and friends subsequently proceeded to a field kindly lent them by Mr. W. Brown. Here the usual games and pastimes were resorted to and the children competed in a number of races for toys, pictures, and other articles, the supervision of Mr. and Mrs. R. Marchant and Mr. J. Betts. Later on, a scholars' entertainment was given in the chapel under the direction of Mr. T. Clark. The Rev. B. Holland presided. The following was the programme, which was very nicely and prettily rendered by the scholars who took part in it:—Singing, "A tune on Spring," "The useful sheep," "The birds in March;" reading, "Tom and Matilda," Eliza Bridge; singing, "Little dicky bird," "The daisy;" reading, "John and the frog," Miriam Clark; singing, "Dolly's boots," "The rain;" reading, "Who made the flowers ?" M. Rollins; singing, "The wagtail," "A round," "The golden shore;" reading, "A true ghost story," Nellie Clark; singing, "The infant's prayer," "Long ago," "Jesus loves a little child;" reading, "A Priest's sermon," Thomas Clark; concluding hymn, "Shall we sing in heaven for ever." The singing of the children was accompanied on the violin and violincello, by Messrs. T. and C. Clark. In response to the pastor, Mr. R. Marchant expressed the pleasure with which he had listened to the children's performance, and after speaking a few words of encouragement to them, moved a vote of thanks to Messrs. T. and C. Clark for the trouble they had taken in training the children, which was responded to by Mr. T. Clark. After a few words eulogy from Rev. B. Holland, the meeting closed with the Doxology and Benediction.

THE NEW RECTOR—The Rev. J. T. Bonner, B. A., vicar of Hale Magna, near Sleaford, who has (as we have already announced) been presented to the living at Stanwick, is expected shortly to be in residence. As a mark of their esteem for him, and as a recognition of his service, the parishioners of Hale Magna have just presented the rev. gentleman with a handsome marble timepiece. Much regret is expressed in Hale Magna at his approaching departure.

CHELVESTON C.C. v. STANWICK C.C.—A match was played between the above clubs on Saturday last, at Chelveston, resulting in a victory for the Stanwick team by nine wickets. Scores: Chelveston, first innings, 17; second, 22; Stanwick, first innings, 38; second, four for the loss of one wicket.

STANWICK PROPERTY SALE—A sale of valuable freehold property, consisting of three closes of land, building and garden ground, and five cottages, the property of the late Mr. Thomas Bass, of Raunds, was held at the Duke of Wellington lnn on Friday evening last. The property was put up for auction by Messrs. Pendered and Son in seven lots.

Lot 1 was a close of arable land containing 5a. 2r. 10p., abutting on the Higham-road; this lot was knocked down to Mr. William Bass, of Northampton, for £500.

Lot 2 was a plot of garden ground fronting the Back-lane. This was purchased by Mr. Wm. Maddison, of Wellingborough, for £62 10s.

Lot 3 was three newly-erected cottages in the Back-lane. No bidding.

Lot 4 was two cottages adjoining. No bidding.

Lot 5 was a plot of building land adjoining the cottages; there was no bidding taken for this lot, so that too was withdrawn.

Lot 6 was a close of arable land containing 1a. 3r. 10p., situated at the corner of Chelveston-road. This was purchased by Mr. C. Clark for £175, after some competition.

Lot 7, a close of arable land, containing 1a. 2r. 16p., waa sold to Mr. J. Morris, Chelveston, for £120.

Lots 3, 4, 5, consisting of the cottages and building land as above were then put up in one lot, and ultimately knocked down to Mr. Marriott, of Wellingborough, for £365; we understand for Mr. J. Foscutt. There was a good company present.

HARVEST THANKSGIVING—Special harvest thanksgiving services were held in this church on Sunday, when sermons were preached by the Rector, Rev. J. T. Bonner. Collections were made after each service. The sacred edifice was chastely decorated for the occation.

SCHOOL BOARD MEETING—Thursday, September 25th.—Present: Mr. J. R. Crawley, chairman, and Messrs. S. Pettitt and R. Marchant. The treasurer reported the receipt of £2 10s. from late tenant for the schoolmasters house and 10s. from the present tenant for rent also 6s. 6d. from the Flower Show Committee for the use of the school. A number of bills for stationery, for cleaning the school out-houses, and masons' work, for sundries and incidentals expenses were presented by the Treasurer and ordered to be paid. Mr. E. J. Whitney presented his report as attendance officer and orders were made in relation to irregular attendance of the children at school. No other business of public importance was transacted.

BAPTIST CHAPEL—On Tuesday evening, the 3rd inst., a special harvest thanksgiving service was held in this chapel, which was very prettily decorated for the occasion with corn, fruit, vegetables, and flowers, the thank offerings of the congregation. The service was conducted and the sermon preached by the pastor, Rev. B. Holland. There was a good congregation present.

WESLEYAN HARVEST THANKSGIVING—On Thursday evening last, a public tea in connection with the harvest thanksgiving was held in the Wesleyan Chapel at which there was a good attendance. In the evening a public meeting was held in the chapel under the presidency of Mr. Andrew Walker, of Raunds. The meeting, which was well attended, was addressed by Rev. W. Watson, superintendent of the circuit, and Rev. T. J. Spragg, Raunds. The chapel was very tastefully and prettily decorated for the occasion, the decorations being the work of Mrs. D. Knight, Mrs. Joseph Clark Mrs John Clark, Mrs. Cox, Mrs. Nutt, Mrs. Ward, and Miss Rooksby. The corn, fruit, and vegetables, were the free will offerings of the congregation. The hymns sung were well rendered. Mr. Frank Patrick presided at the harmonium, Mr. J. Patrick, sen., on the clarionet, and Mr. C. Clark on the violoncello. A collection was made at the close of the meeting which, with the profits of the tea and the proceeds of the sale of corn, fruits, and vegetables, realized £2 1s. 7d. On Sunday the chapel anniversary services were held in continuation of the harvest thanksgiving, when sermons were preached by Rev. W. O. Aldom, of Oundle. The collections made at the close of each service amounted to £1 17s. 6¼d. The whole of the proceeds of this anniversary and of the harvest thanksgiving is to be devoted to the liquidation of the chapel debt.

HARVEST SUPPER—On Monday evening last the annual village harvest supper was held at the Crown lnn. The catering was done by the worthy host and hostess, Mr. and Mrs. George Morris, in their usual efficient and liberal style. The viands were ample and of the best quality, and the capital spread left nothing to be desired. Over 70 sat down to table and partook of the good things provided. After justice had been done to the supper, the cloth was removed, and a very agreeable and pleasant evening was spent in singing and social chat, the following programme being gone through under the presidency of Mr. J. Foskett:—Song "The old English gentleman," John Barson; song, "The widow’s shop, " B. Morris; song, "One kind cheering word," T. Charles; song, "The boat is going over," J. Barker; song, "The birds upon the tree," J. Goodman; song, "The great big Irish stew," R. Barker; recitation, "Jack Oakham," J. Whitelark; song, "My Jemima," Mr. Withers; song, "Poor old Jeff," M. Smith; song, "Waste not want not," W. Wise; song, "Out in the green fields," H. Morris; song, "The Rose of Allandale," C. Clark, sen.; song, "The gipsy's warning," F. Foskett; song, "Put your shoulder to the wheel," Mr. Bridge; song, "My Louise," S. Morris; song, "Spenser, the rover," J. Allen; song, "Sarah Jane," B. Morris; song, "The sailor boy's farewell," J. Barker. At the close of this programme the health of Mr. and Mrs. George Morris was drank with due honours, and three ringing cheers were then given with good wishes for their long life and happiness. Mr. G. Morris responded in suitable terms. The proceedings then terminated with the Rational Anthem. Valuable assistance was rendered by Messrs. W. Coleman, H. Fuller, H. Morris and J. Cuthbert.

OUTBREAK OF MEASLES—Measles of a rather unfavourable kind prevail to such an extent amongst the children in this village that the Sunday-schools were closed on Sunday last, and on Monday the School Board deemed it prudent to close the Board School. One girl named Rollins died on Sunday. About 60 cases are reported.

Irthlingborough Highway Board - see full report under Rushden

BAPTIST CHAPEL—The Baptist friends here held their annual tea and new year's meeting last week, when a service of song, entitled "Luther," was nicely rendered by the choir. Mr. J. Welford then on behalf of the congregation presented their esteemed pastor, Rev. B. Holland, with a purse containing £6 4s. 6d. as a new year's gift, with an expresssion of good wishes for his temporal and spiritual welfare. Mr. Holland, in suitable terms, gratefully acknowledged the gift, and reciprocated their kind expressions used towards him. The chapel was tastefully decorated for the occasion.

CONCERT—On Wednesday evening last the members of the church choir, assisted by some friends, gave a concert in the Board Schoolroom, under the presidency of the Rev. J. T. Bonner, rector. The following was the programme:—Pianoforte duet, "Prelude and fugue," Mr. J. E. Smith and Master A. Clark; glee, "May day," the choir; song, "The mocking bird," Mrs. J. Bass; song, Rev. F. Bolingbroke; reading, "The vulgar boy," Mr. W. H. Pope; pianoforte solo, Miss Marriott; song, "Her bright smile haunts me still" (encored), Mr. H. Morris; vocal duet, "I would that my love," Rev. J. T. and Mrs. Bonner; song, "L'Ardita;" trio, "The winds whistles cold," choir; hunting song, Mr. E. Pratt; pianoforte solo, Miss Marriott; song, "Angels ever bright and fair," Mrs. Pope; glee, "Who is Silvia?" choir; song, "Kiss me and I'll go to sleep," Mr. Bridge; song, "Where are you going my pretty maid?" (encore, "Poppies"), Mrs. Wetenhall; reading, "A night with a baby," Rev. J. T. Bonner; song, Rev. F. Bolingbroke; pianoforte solo, overture "La Mascotte," Mr. E. Pratt; quartet, "A carol," Mr. and Mrs. Pope, Rev. J. T. and Miss Bonner; song, "Will you love me when I'm old," Mr. Ward; glee, "Forester sound the cheerful horn," choir; finale, "God save the Queen." At the close, the Chairman thanked all those kinds who had assisted the choir, and also the audience for their presence and support. The proceeds, he stated, would go to the choir fund. There was a good attendance, and all seemed to appreciate the performance.

BAPTIST CHAPEL—The members of the choir in connection with this place of worship were treated to an excellent meat tea in the schoolroom, on Monday evening last. The pastor (Rev. B. Holland) and Mrs. Holland, were present. The evening was pleasantly spent in singing, and a variety of amusements.

STANWICK - FOREIGN MISSIONS—The annual Wesleyan Missionary meeting was held in the chapel on Monday, under the presidency of Mr. T. C. Jeeves, of Raunds. The meeting was addressed by the Rev. Mr. Watson, superintendent, and Rev. J. T. Spragg, Raunds.

STANWICK BAPTIST CHAPEL—ON Wednesday evening last Rev. B. Holland, the pastor, delivered an interesting lecture illustrated with a series of dissolving views which were much admired and appreciated. There was a good attendance. A collection was made at the close.

ACCIDENT—Mr. Samuel Pettit, of Stanwick, was driving to Raunds station on Wednesday evening week, when his horse shied at a heap of white stone taken from a building just pulled down belonging to Mr. George Bass, in Lower High-street, and rearing up turned to the off side of the street. Not being able to make the animal proceed, Mr. Pettit got out and found the horse holding up its left foreleg which on examination was found to have been broken short in two just above the foot —it is supposed by coming into contact with the kerbstones. Mr. Pettit with some difficulty removed his horse to the Robin Hood Inn. On Thursday Mr. Arnold, veterinary surgeon, of Thrapston, attended it, and having pronounced it incurable, it was shot. The value of the horse was £20 and Mr. Pettit, we understand, is seeking compensation from those whom he considers responsible for stacking the stone in the street and causing the accident.