Spiritualism in Battle Creek.
Spiritualism in this place has now received three stunning blows. The first was when Moses Hull, standing within the strong defenses of the truth, gave Mr. Wardsworth, Spiritualist, a complete and utter discomfiture, showing up the inconsistencies and the hideously immoral tendencies of the doctrine. It was made to stagger again, when the same Hull, having foolishly apostatized to that unhallowed delusion, received an equal discomfiture at the hands of Mr. Leland. And now it receives its heaviest blow, in the illustration of its practical workings, as shown in the poisoning case noticed in another column. But it may perhaps be said Spiritualists are not responsible for the acts of all who choose to call themselves by their name. They might urge this plea, but not their public action, so far as they have been able to agree in any public action, cut this off. The constitution of the Religio-Philosophical Society, the only form of organization ever generally adopted by Spiritualists, makes this very significant provision:— "It is the duty of this Society to receive all who desire to unite herewith, by subscribing to these articles, each individual alone being responsible for views entertained or uttered, or acts performed or approved. And for these reasons no complaint or charge against members of this Society shall ever be entertained, nor shall any member of this Society ever be suspended or expelled from membership." It is also provided, that "No amendment shall ever be made allowing complaints to be entertained against members, nor for their censure, suspension, or expulsion; nor in anywise to restrict or hinder any person from uniting with, or withdrawing from this Society in the manner herein before provided." Individual Spiritualists may, in spite of their doctrine, sustain a good character. But when in their teachings, and in their corporate deliberations, they make their individual members responsible to no one for their actions, the public will throw the responsibility of such actions upon them as a body, and they cannot shun it.