in the public service. In the school system of
Upper Canada, he has built for himself an enduring monument, as a
benefactor of the Province. He is a brave yet courteous champion
for some of our most precious rights. May those who watch for his
halting be confounded and put to shame!

After a reference to some personal matters, Dr. Ryerson, in the course
of his remarks, showed that he was prepared to sacrifice much for the
maintenance of the truth. He said: Shortly after the occurrence to which
I have just referred, an act was got through the Legislature at the end
of the Session of 1849, which excluded clergymen from visiting the
public schools in their official character, and which would have
excluded the Bible from the schools. What was my conduct on the
occasion? Why, I forthwith placed my office at the disposal of the Head
of the Government sooner than administer such a law. The result was the
Government authorized the suspension of the Act, and caused its repeal
at the next Session of Parliament.

* * * * *

The debate lasted over two days, and was finally closed by the adoption
of an amendment by the Rev. A. Hurlburt, recognizing the application of
the previous year as admitted by Dr. Ryerson, and as understood by the
Conference. The amendment was passed by an immense majority, only 23 out
of 150 members present voting against it.

FOOTNOTES:

[143] Dr. Ryerson left Toronto for Quebec immediately after Conference,
to confer with the Government there on matters connected with his
Department. While there he wrote to me a private letter as follows:--

At Mr. Attorney-General Macdonald's suggestion I have been appointed
Honorary Commissioner at the Paris exhibition. Mr. Macdonald also
endorsed my recommendation for your appointment as Deputy Superintendent
with an increased salary. His Excellency appointed you yesterday
according to my recommendation, and you will be gazetted on Saturday....
Sir Edmund Head has given me very flattering letters of introduction to
Lord Clarendon and Lord John Russell.... I leave here for Boston on my
way to England.... I have no doubt but that you will do all things in
the best manner, and for the best. I fervently pray Almighty God greatly
to prosper you, as well as guide and bless you in your official duties.

[144] The antagonism between Mr. Spencer (now Editor of the _Guardian_)
and Dr. Ryerson was of long standing. Thirteen years before the date of