The Lectures

From the headquarters of the Christian Scientists in London (writes a Daily Chronicle correspondent) I received only yesterday morning (Monday, June 5) an invitation to attend a lecture announced for the same afternoon at Queen's Hall, Langham Place. The card was a modest little affair, such as would be issued by any humble religious body addressed to its supporters, but the name and style of the lecturer attracted me, even surprised me into canceling another engagement in its favor. He was described as William N. Miller, Esq., Q.C., C.S.B. Thinking I could not be mistaken in omitting from my recollection any such English Queen's Counsel, it was an obvious thing, for a moment, to suppose that the letters "Q.C." were as cryptic as the letters "C.S.B." So, too, it was natural to expect in such a hall, for such a purpose, on a sultry summer afternoon, only a few devoted adherents of the new sect hungering for spiritual pabulum.

Judge of my surprise on finding Queen's Hall—the large hall, be it remembered, Mr. George Grossmith and Mr. Albert Chevalier sharing honors in the smaller halls—well filled with one of the most fashionable audiences of the season. Mostly ladies, to be sure, but all apparently from the upper ranks of London society. Here and there a group could be seen attended by fathers, husbands, or other male relatives, but certainly a most gaily attired array of disciples. Whether this means that the new cult has already become fashionable or not, it must be left for others to determine. A Liszt or Paderewski recital could not have commanded the presence of more charming millinery. Moreover, a peer (Lord Dunmore) occupied the chair, and introduced the lecturer.

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Another Victory
July 6, 1899
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