New and Novel by Editor

International Tract and Missionary Society · Oakland, California · Aug 13, 1885

FromSigns of the Times, Vol. 11, No. 31.

"New and Novel."

By Editor

THE following from the Daily Palladium, of Richmond, Indiana, May 21, 1885, tells its own story:—

"The question has been frequently asked of late what is meant by "The Roll?" and so much interest was felt in the explanation that the United Presbyterian church was filled last evening by an eager, anxious audience to witness the denouement. A temporary stage had been erected, and at the signal the audience witnessed the first act—the unrolling of the curtains. This was followed by rolling a procession of wheelbarrows across the stage, and later by a number of the actors taking a roll across the stage. The opening was ludicrous and caused roars of laughter, putting the audience in good humor for enjoying the excellent programme that followed: Piano solo by Professor Weisbrod, quartette singing, clarionette quartette, whistling chorus, imitation of mocking bird, by Abner Dalby. An army camp scene was excellently portrayed, representing camp life and picket duty. "The entertainment concluded with a very laughable representation of bachelor's hall. Half a dozen bachelors were engaged in domestic duties, sewing on buttons, making bread, mending pants, darning socks, etc., relieving the monotony by a dissertation on married life. While thus engaged, the assessor enters and inquires for Benjamin Barnyard Myrick. Ben being cornered had to give an inventory of his personal property, including money at interest, bank stock, etc. His money standing out was a quarter he had loaned Rev. Mr. Gilchrist, and he was the unfortunate possessor of 5,555 shares of stock in the Richmond National Bank. This allusion to that defunct institution brought down the house. The entertainment was new and novel, and was much appreciated by every one present."

Yes, that is decidedly "new, and novel." But oh, the misery of it! Oh, the shame of it. That the cause of the blessed Christ, and the place of his worship, should be so prostituted!