and importance of
Young Men's Christian Associations, is gratified to find that steps
have been taken to establish one in this town.'

"He supported it at some length with many pertinent illustrations,
and expressed himself warmly in favor of the institution.

"T. J. Pidwell, Esq., seconded the motion. He adverted to the good
results from similar institutions elsewhere; passed some strictures
upon the alarming increase of saloons, and concluded that the
organization of a Christian Association with its Library, and the
opportunity which it would afford for the discussion of general
theological and political questions would have a powerful tendency to
guard the young men of this colony from falling into habits
destructive of good morals.

"The Rev. Dr. Evans, with an eloquent and forcible speech then moved:

"'That this meeting pledge itself to encourage and support by every
means in its power this the first Young Men's Christian Association
established in Vancouver's Island.'

"His remarks exhibited the greatest degree of tolerance. All narrow
views in the organization and working of the Association were
undesirable. To cherish the great essentials of religion as laid down
by the founder of Christianity was the principal object of the
institution. The moral and spiritual advantages to the young men of
the colony arising from the Association he was satisfied would be
very great. It deserved every encouragement, and he heartily
concurred in promoting the object of its founders, and hoped it
would not only secure moral but financial support.

"The Rev. W. F. Clarke, Congregational Missionary, with great
pleasure seconded the motion, and supported it with a speech of
considerable length, replete with argument and illustration,
portraying the advantages of the Association in a community like
this, where there was so little public opinion to influence and
direct young men; whilst there were so many things incident to the
love of money in a gold country to induce youth to contract habits
adverse to the progress of morals and religion.

"A. F. Pemberton, Esq., then moved: 'That the following gentlemen be
requested to act as office-bearers for the ensuing year. Patron,
His Excellency, the Governor; President, Col. Moody, R.E.;
Vice-Presidents, Judge Cameron and Captain Prevost, R.N.; Committee,
Messrs. A. F. Pemberton, Pidwell, Sparrow, Burr, Holt, Damon, Evans
and Cunningham, with power to add to their numbers; Secreta