CLASS OF 1894

Concerning Rev. Frank W. Hodgdon, pastor of Plymouth Congregational church, Des Moines, lowa, we make some extracts from a letter in the Register and Leader of that City, written by a traveling man in answer to a criticism upon the churches of the city published in an earlier issue: "The church where religion is sure to be preached is near, is large, is cheery, and has delightful music. It has cultured and broad-minded people attending, where rich and poor receive a royal welcome, attested by the fact that lots of traveling men go there every Sunday. This church is none other than Plymouth Congregational church on Pleasant Street. Most attractive of all to me is the spirit of bold freedom in the pulpit. A United States silk flag hangs its beauty folds on the wall inside, and the beloved and gifted pastor sits between that flag and his choir of seventy people. And how that choir can sing, and how he can preach, and how eloquent is the silent flag! Evidently Plymouth church stands for most outspoken honesty as to the status of presentday religion and for progress. I make bold to write this to you, hoping that by doing it I may be of some service to the pastor of Plymouth, who is doing a great work in this city, and is a solid citizen, a brainy, fearless, and lovable man."

Secretary, Rev. Charles C. Merrill, Winchendon, Mass.