THE AUSTRALIAN COLONIES.
By E. J. Burnham
A FEW weeks ago there was a Health and Temperance Society organized in Melbourne, with Brother H. Scott as President. It is designed not only to promote health-reform principles among the members of the church, but to reach the people, and get them interested in health and temperance publications. The society held its first regular monthly meeting last Sunday afternoon. Besides the business that came before the meeting, there were recitations, select readings, and singing. The officers of the society intend to have public meetings occasionally, with recitations, select readings, appropriate music, and perhaps addresses sometimes. The tract society meeting for this quarter, was held July 24. As Elder Israel was in Adelaide, Brother Scott presided. The reports showed that the members had been active. It was decided that an effort should be made to enter the various hospitals and benevolent institutions of the city with our literature. Several persons volunteered for this work, and have made a beginning. There is a prospect that good may be done. The meetings in Castlemaine still continue with good interest. They were interrupted for a few days, as Brother Curtis was obliged to vacate the Mechanic's Institute on account of the opposition. Another hall has been secured, which can be used as long as necessary. The ministers have been very much stirred, and have done all they could to hinder the success of the meetings. Two have decided to keep the Sabbath, and others are interested and convinced. Brother Israel has been holding a series of meetings in Adelaide. The weather has been very unfavorable; but some have been interested in the truths presented. We hope for good results from the efforts of ministers and Bible and tract society workers. Let us have an interest in your prayers. Melbourne, August 9, 1887.