The working and middle classes, not having time for such meetings during the day, availed themselves of their leisure time in the evenings for the study of the word. We well remember the first, or one of the first, of such a class that we attended. Being invited by a Christian friend to meet a few Christians at his house for a social tea and reading, we accordingly went on the evening named. In observing the friends as they assembled, to the number of about thirty, we were struck with their plain appearance as to dress, and the absence of ornaments. The subjects of conversation before tea seemed only to concern themselves, or rather, the Lord's work in their different meetings. As for general news, nothing was said, and the mention of politics would have seemed sheer profanity. The Brethren, as a body, do not qualify, and, of course, they never vote at elections; they also, in general, object to take an oath, unless adjured by a magistrate.
But the tea is ready; and the whole company drop into a profound silence. Some brother, after a short but distinct pause, asked the Lord's blessing. All were very free and cheerful during tea; some were sitting and engaged in conversation, others were moving about for the purpose of speaking to as many as possible. This was a very happy part of the meeting, and lasted till about seven o'clock-fully an hour. When the tea was over and the time for edification had arrived, everyone found a seat, with Bible and hymn book in hand. All came provided with both. Again there was a pause, and perfect stillness. After a little waiting a hymn was sung, and prayer was offered for the Lord's presence in light and blessing.
The head of the house now stated, "that if any brother had a portion of the word on his mind that he would like read, he was free to say so." This seemed a very responsible part of the meeting, and there was a long pause. At length a chapter was named, and all turned to it. The portion was read, and a free interchange of thought as to its meaning, connection, and importance was kept up till about nine o'clock. Nearly all the brothers had something to say on some part of it: others contented themselves with asking questions; but it soon became apparent who was the most richly instructed in the word, as the questions in time were addressed to him. After a hymn and prayer, the company dispersed about ten o'clock. But there was a distinct pause between each part of the service, leaving the Holy Spirit free to use whom He would, though it was not an assembly meeting.
From about half-past five till half-past nine, we seemed to be in an atmosphere purely spiritual, which had a great effect on the mind. Whether all felt it to be so, we have no means of knowing; we only speak of what we experienced. The Bible from this time became like a new book, prayer like a fresh thing, nearness to God a reality more so than ever, though we had known the Lord for more than twenty years, and been happy in Him and in His service all that time. There was no need of a president in such a meeting; the sense of the divine presence was such, that the least impropriety, or any appearance of the flesh, would have been intolerable. The spiritual sense of those so gathered would have marked its disapprobation in a way unmistakable to the intruder.
This may be considered a fair sample of such meetings at that time-nearly a quarter of a century ago. Then there were about twelve or thirteen meetings in what was called London, now there are about forty-five. Consequently, the numbers are much greater, and we cannot be surprised, though a greater element of the world may be seen in their meetings, however much we may deplore it. But even to this day many of the tea and reading meetings would bear comparison with the one described above. Still, we have to say of some individuals as a brother said of one long ago, " Moulting time is not yet come."
Having said so much about reading meetings and their value, it seems necessary to add that there are many among Brethren of great moral weight, who might not be able to take much part in such meetings; but the godliness of their lives, their pastoral service, and their Christ-like spirit, commend them to the esteem and affection of all. We must further add, though with deep sorrow, that such meetings have been used for the worst purposes by the enemy. A company carefully selected may be brought together, and evil doctrine may be insinuated by a specious false teacher, and notes being taken by partisans, it may be circulated far and wide. But what good thing is there that the enemy will not seek to corrupt if he cannot upset; or that the flesh may not abuse even in a Christian?