Cross Bulletin December 1917

--- Page 1 --- Business Letters to be addressed to the Manager . Mr. Arms , Dublin , Literary Communications to the Editor , at the same address . forefathers , boisterous and silly Christmas was gone . The merry- addressed envelope . making and festivity of our and now darkness has settled over Miscellaneous . Christmas . those our good friends may the great This year , alas ! the Prince Even before the horror of this dull world . Winter itself seems now reluctant to clothe road Unsuitable MSS , will not be returned unless accompanied by stamped as they sometimes were , and tree and field with the white snow for Christmas as it did of Peace must come into a world steadily decaying since Martin Luther nailed his theses - we look and pray , so far in vain . war arose much of the old with the spirit of Christmas . The civilisation that was born happy Christmas . Cross of wishing our readers a very standard of revolt - to the chapel door of Wittenberg Castle : the world , for whose lifting some touch of joy into the festival bring its gifts abundantly . learning and holiness of the middle ages has been Never indeed was the state of Europe in stronger contrast THE pleasant duty devolves upon us in this number of this number of THE deserve regret . for they brought To one and all of forefathers , boisterous and silly as they sometimes were , door of Wittenberg Castle : happy Christmas . " To one and all of THE pleasant duty devolves upon us in and now darkness has settled over the world , for whose lifting egret , for they brought some touch of joy into the rent by war . gifts abundantly . standard of revolt - to the chapel with the spirit of Christmas . s of wishing our readers a very festival bring its asant duty devolves upon us in this number of THE Never indeed was the state ( Gherardo delle Notti . Villat Gallery , Florence . ) the adoption of the shepherds . --- Page 2 --- natural law and primitive revelation , those who lived under threefold birth of Christ , Son of the Father in eternity and he window in sign of love bravely travelling back through the ottages on lone countrysides will put the lighted candle in the Mosaic law with its grander revelation of the sovereignty vill go out at night to look for the new star that comes to he midnight solemn Mass ? Yet many things survive . The larkness through their church-porch to the warm gloves of ind thence to these islands . History tells us how it came guide the strangers from far off countries to the royal cradle inging the time-honoured carol ? Where now will faithful about , but spiritual writers find in the fact a high significance . the theologian : God a newly-born infant is the wonder of the of the fireside hushed by the sound of sweet voices of children his mystery by the threefold offering of the most Holy is paid bending over Him-this is the strongest and tenderest the world to save all mankind : those who lived under the he surrender of our love . God becoming man is the theme of he festival itself . Easter is the foundation of our faith . ed berries are on the holly , and the laws in the hedge , and orn Babe who is still the eternal God , with the mother who of the King of the Jews . On St. Stephen's day the wren will spread through the vast Empire of Charlemagne in the ninth of God , and those who live under the law of love taught from feet press the crisp snow as they pass from midnight cold and Christmas appeals to our heart , compelling by its tenderness repeat the words of the shepherds : " Let us go over to With some it is a reminder that the Son of God was born into world . In the long gallery of God's works . Bethlehem is the picture that has arrested the crowd . The sight of a newly- enturies , a sign that here would have been hospitality for them velcome as heralds of Christmas ? . Where now is the chatter its' little heart beating , for dear life ! Bethlehem and see this word which is come to pass , " and With the countless multitude who have gone before us we he mistleton is green in the apple-orchards . The old folk in and the Infant lying in the manger . ' Pentecost is the impress of God's strength on the world . But It was surely a prompting worthy of early piety to celebrate hat found no room in the Inn at Bethlehem . ' The young folk of the " cords of Adam " that brings man's heart to God . sacrifice . The custom started in Rome in the fourth century ; the Manger to the Cross . With others it is a reminder of the hop and dive from branch to branch the whole hedge-row along , THE CROSS . A better thing , however , remains and always will remain- broken by the " Waits , " music often of the simplest , yet of more . Where now is the long silence of the dark night ollowing in their wake we also shall find " Mary and Joseph 23th 231 . --- Page 3 --- pleased to observe , have taken up the question of Social Science . praiseworthy alertness in one of the most pressing questions of the poor and working classes are housed in England and well deserves the generous support of the charitable disposed , building up the prosperity of the country , and in justice he indeed , that our municipal authorities did not make greater fortable home than the boiler who contributes so much towards efforts in the past to grapple in a practical manner with the regard . The deplorable condition under which a large number Prisoners' Aid Society . His Grace Most Rev. Dr. Walsh . Society paid 49,186 visits to 7.771 families . The Society provided for ; a Night Shelter , a Seamen's Institute , and a and musical entertainments provided . Judging by the list of weekly reunions will be held at which lectures will be delivered movement for the better housing of the industrial classes , the information regarding the Society . lemands immediate attention in this country . ' It is a pity . and useful one . The Literary and Debating Guild , we are society of Cork , containing the pro- subjects , the session promises to be a particularly interesting gramme of the Literary and Musical session , as well as other interesting a home there : then indeed you will have " a happy Christmas . ' is a crying evil . There is no man more deserving of a com- and we sincerely hope that the self-sacrificing work of the issued by the Catholic Young Men's the Society by contributing E 100 to the funds . " The Society by this efficient charitable organisation . members of the Cork Young . ' Men's Society are showing housing of the poor . Ireland does not stand alone in this eminent lecturers , who will deliver addresses on various and papers will be read on the housing question , which will knock at the door of your heart . ' Open it , and give Him light , but a little child who is God , now lying in the straw , comprising 800 members , and during 1916 the Brothers or the should be provided with it . In giving an impetus to the St. Vincent de Paul Society revealed the great and noble work that is done During the session , which extends to the end of March , 1917 . THE CROSS . maintains an Orphanage where 150 boys are educated and The recent meeting in the Mansion House in support of the Archbishop of Dublin , showed his practical appreciation of There are 6r conferences in Dublin , Young Men's Scotland , as our experience as well as official reports testify , poor-may not be hampered by lack of funds . society . Paul Society . Cork Catholic . meeling at the Crib . for you no child will appear in heavenly St. Vincent de . A CORRESPONDENT has favoured us with a copy of the brochure . Brothers who are Good Samaritans towards the needy and Gentle reader , old or young , boy or maiden , when you are Brothers who are Good Samaritans towards the as favoured us with a copy of the brochure , A correspondent has I 233 . --- Page 4 --- insight of Saint Stephen : for with his mind broadened by reared by Solomon for the worship of Jahveh , religious inter- life-story of Moses , as to convincingly insinuate his loyalty to patriarchs and the Most High ; years before the national hero f an angel " is the terse but expressive word-picture of the ourse pure and strong had been carried on between the emple , he dwells with such undisguised enthusiasm on the ondly imagined were permanent , immutable and indispensable . ink to the level of a slightly differentiated synagogue . he Christian Church was not subordinate to Judaism , it might that hostile gaze , a supernatural beauty transformed his own- irst attention and then opposition . But neither dialecties or count of having spoken blasphemy against Moses and God , or nesses as they presented that distorted half-truth which is ever rather against their respective personifications ( to Jewish nake , and yet he speaks with such national pride of the are really temporary , transitory and conditional . Centuries And therein precisely do we discern the true greatness and unless it were immediately proclaimed from the housetops that author of the Acts . But the last of blood was in their hearts , handsome and prepossessing , and it is certain that as he faced before stone was laid on stove in the vast imposing edifice the presence of the Sanhedrin . " the worst of lies , and then all eyes sought the face of the bated breath on the lips of the perjured and foresworn wit- This same Temple and this same Law which his audience Argent , skilled in speech and bold in argument , he attracted His opponents were simply unable " to withstand the wisdom bruptly changed as they hurry him in ' summary fashion into and spirit with which he spoke . ' iccected alone in his eyes . " They saw his face as the face minds ) the Law and the Temple . The audience hung with Beaten in words , refuted in argument , they had recourse to remple were not permanent and indispensable . The answer was given in a speech calmly dignified and Christian tradition has represented Stephen as youthful words and accuse him of blasphemy , then the scene is ST. STEPHEN : PROTO-MARKICK . priest but the formal question : before this supreme Jewish tribunal he was indicted on the Are these things so ? ' and and force . They first unborn witnesses to prevent his mate logical conclusions by Paul , viz. , that the Law and the of the progress of Primitive Christianity . tenance and the light of sacrifice freely sought and as freely accused . and all other considerations , remorselessly stifted as the high- obtly argumentative . No direct denial of the charge does he ontact with pagan wisdom he was the first to realise that This constitutes his peculiar claim to attention in any study h. But meanwhile whether tends the drift of his argument ? ry could avail night against his fiery inspired eloquence . --- Page 5 --- designate Himself or whether the Spirit warned him to use rage and malice , he raised his eyes to Heaven . And his soul . and as if to shut out the sight of their degrading exhibition of stances , we know not ; but certain it is that nowhere else in the Master before this same assembly and in similar circum- this " appellation as a significant reminiscence of the speech of slasphemy . Throwing to the winds all pretence of legal Jewish fanatics who stunned Stephen laid their garments , to transition from studied conciliation to scathing inventive , that things , so that , forgetful of all else , he cried aloud : Hence about the year 37 Stephen sealed his faith with his ve must postulate a more violent interruption which snapped develop it into what its Founder intended it to be the Church We stiff-necked and uncircumcised of heart . ' You do soaring aloft , was favoured with a feeling vision of celestial Towards the end of the speech there is such an abrupt needed the guiding hand of that same Paul , at whose feet the Stephen and bore him out of the city gates to be stored . not at all . ' To their sacrament ears the exclamation was a fury they gnashed their teeth at him . He headed them not . blood . and in the terse but vividly expressive language of St. find the title " Son of Man " attributed to Christ by lips other This was the last drop in the already overflowing cup of his which he flung back the cutting rebuke . Whether he remembered that Christ had been want to so observances " had been practised . What then of the vaunted Luke " " Fell asleep . ' than His own . immortality and necessity of either the one or the other insti- The significance of all this , however , troubled his accusers lefiance of that August assembly , and in their ungovernable the whole range of the literature of the New Testament do we His life and death marked a turning-point in the history of he Church , and gave it a progressive impetus , which only Moses had proclaimed the ordinances of the Law , ceremonial the last thread of his already sorely-tried patience , and to always resist the Holy Ghost . ... You who received the law P. J. Vesey , B.A. , B.C.L. . . " Behold , I see the heavens opened and the Son of Man tele cross . tution ? ordained by angels and kept it not . ' ormality and carefully-weighed decision , they rushed upon of the Gentiles and of the World . standing on the right hand of God ! " anding on the right hand of God ! ' sims . " Bekold , I see the heavens opened and the which he hung back the cutting rebuke : "ience , and to 2017 minton . --- Page 6 --- see a wonderful sight . A knocking is heard at the chief door Twelfth Eve , hoping to see them . In some places Befana , Infant's swaddling clothes . ' The shepherds wear long white would not put aside her work to see them , saying that she humble war presents his offering at the " Creche , " saying take part in the play bring offerings to the Holy Babel . They of some wild animal , or even a few flowers . " Each one in his butter , honey , fruit , eggs and cloth , supposed to be for the the offerings are made , the chief shepherd , " Montano , " says another war ; and unhappy Belana waits with her broom on priest warns the people to be attentive , as they are about to sweeping busily when the Wise Men came to Bethlehem , and crib , gives a sort of sermon on the Christian faith , and , after tide merry-making came to an end on " NOTlag Bez . " or Creche " is erected by a side altar , and the persons who join in a carol before they light their torches , which have been Christ Child . Before this the Angel , who has led them to the obtain nothing else the poor men bring a kid . a hare . the skin Little Christmas Day , though in England they were often enter , carrying such offerings as a lamb , a pair of pigeons , left outside the church , and go home in the straight . about ; she holds a big broom , for she was supposed to be a dream of Herod's plot to murder ' Christ , they went home the world . Then the priest finishes Mass , the congregation soon as midnight Mass has advanced as far as the Creed , the fringe or metal , just as in Belgium , Holland and Germany , rounds on the Eve of the Epiphany-some say the name is a kept up till Candlemas , and sometimes till Shrovetide . luring the " Twelve Days . " for in this country all " the Valc- brought by " Befana , " an old woman who is said to go her at midnight to allow her to pass with her train of miles , laden infant being made of chocolate , marzipan , papier-mache , wax , children , while other folks say the walls turn into cream cheese figures of Santa Claus or St. Nicholas are made of various . with presents ! In the good old times the Irish chieftains kept open ho In the valleys of Piedmont a curious " Pastoral . " or miracle of the church , which is opened by a priest , and the shepherds . corruption of " Epiphania . " Strange figures of her are carried play , is performed in the churches at Christmas . When the represent eleven shepherds and from one to three angels . As materials . THE CROSS . Italian children believe that their Christmas boxes are Children , are given " Bambinos . " the figure of the Blessed would see them on their return . But , as they were warned in is practically the same as the Holy Babel in our " " Cribs . " cloaks , broad-brimmed hats , and carry sticks . If they can they will go out and spread the good news of the Nativity to that he dedicates himself as well as his poor present to the like Santa Claus , comes down the chimney with gifts for good 238 , 239 --- Page 7 --- gus . " But , Lady , you must hasten to a secure hiding-place . summit of Mangerton , above the ' Devil's ' Punch-Bowl , ' heroic father and his five sons , dealing death all round . Over Finally , Major Krag concluded that all save the defenders have found a safe refuge for you and your boys . Near the and over again did the assailants fall back , until at last num- first fastened securely the entrance from it to the vaults . In and hidden by a mass of creepers . I and my faithful servant , Murtagh , have provided it with such comfort in haste as we safety . Every house in the neighbourhood will be searched . I through the Castle . " determined to put to death women , chil- conducted her and her two sons through the tunnel , having the latter place there was an abundance of provisions for the should all say the Rosary for those who fought in defence of had been slain , and deep was his sympathy for her grief . She there is a little cottage surrounded by densely wooded heights Maddened by the prolonged resistance , the assailants rushed When Madame O'Driscoll found herself in the vaults , sur- could obtain . The water of the little lake is ice-cold even in Were you to come to my home I could not answer for your lren , and not to spare the wife of its brave defender . in silence ; he knew well that her husband and her five sons waiting for them . the ears of the enemy . When the boom of artillery had ceased , the prayer was con- must have left it before the siege , and he gave over the search . their homes . " The rise and fall of the Ages soothed the stricken was the first to speak . At length the massive door gave way . Bravely fought the other refugees , and Darby promised them that as soon as it was At the outlet of the tunnel they found Sir Fergus MacVeagh rounded by her poor dependants . She suggested that they id pavement to find a clue to the channel of escape . tinued in tones scarcely audible , so that no sound could reach possible he would come for them . people . Sir Fergus gave a signal like the hooting of a night-owl , and readiness for the flight of his mistress . About midnight he shall have fallen-slain by this handful of brave Irish , fighting At first he could not speak , but kissed the hand of Madame ers prevailed and each gallant clansman fell-sword in hand . in the days of the wild geese . Who are now as my own children . " interrupted Sir Fer- In vain did they seek their prey - in vain did they's this sultry weather . Murtagh will conduct you thither in all Accent the thanks of a heart-broken woman , who would or hearth and home then , and not till then may you exit ! haste . ' At nightfall Darby entered the tunnel to see that all was in welcome death but for those . me death but for those - " --- Page 8 --- the angle you like best ; no matter how often you pass that way palest shading brings it to our sight as peerless and perfect , beauty of the wet spot once more . ' Maybe you know every Lovable People . fact , that we are happy , no matter how really jubilant we many a land , but that one little corner you always visit and step in the hedge , the long daisies and the black cow-and wet lovable personality-like a certain , evenescent light behind one arms , full of beautiful thoughts for others . full of little every- inch of it , the green , the blossom , the smile , the little broken is distinctive ; they are full of feeling and loving outstretched This is the foundation . but the human side of lovable persons loud makes it lovely beyond compare with the multitudinous had one could imagine to admire . It is a perfume permeating lifting our thought's where the others only please the eye . on are welcome whenever you stay . You may have been to spot you love above all , and always stand and review it from You gave up and around and each object arrests in turn , but eyes and remember the cloud you love to see . the snobbish grooves of earth-bound atmosphere . Lovable something taps at your heart and you wait to drink in the means so much that it is untranslatable-there is something always the glance returns to the one cloud singled out by you every time something new comes out and the picture is locked till you feel that if , like Rip Van Winkle , you slept a hundred the whole character-first of all , it is an essence from God- other clouds causing the sky-some exquisite colour , a stand and stare ! " I am so fond of those verses of W. B. lay sweetnesses unexpected sympathies , and that disregard Davies , on " Leisure , " yearning to " stand and stare . " up again . There you have pitched your tent , and you feel rears , on awakening you would brush the white hair from your turning not living in every cottage or flat . for a lovable person is full of grace-and so full of beauty . vin by the very spring of their fibre . To be lovable is a quality , so exquisite as to comprise all immistakable drawing-power of a strength all their own , and So it is , in the country , away in the fields , there is a certain There is some quality or some distinguishing mark in a lovable-something not met with at every by-street or lane - innate and yet evenescent when analysed . of any self-sufficing rules of society and entire freedom from We all know how fatal it is to think , really ponder over the A by a person , there is something quite , per se , in being So it is with personalities , certain ones appear with the PART from all the causes and sources of love engendered 243 --- Page 9 --- in a quarter of an hour-Marian . if she had awakened from her selfish , but winning schoolboy , all lovable by very reason of have taken to our hearts , the absent-minded student , the ocoa in a black bag , of ingratiating himself with grocers and gentle spendthrift , the peppery , but Iovable kinsman whom we their drawbacks . Charles Lamb and Mr. Main were far from Cabell . He was going on , against the heat of London pave- third-class to save the difference ) , of carrying small tons of Lovable people . perfection , and yet , where our hearts would be cold at the Bensonian in its complete comprehension . " He would be there correcting , might perhaps be getting tea ready . ' Or she might unheard . Faith listens , but the grounds for faith must be for prudence . remember telling Mr. Benson how glad I was he kept Percy provision dealers in arrogant country towns - all this for three toiling home after the loss of his berth at Messrs . Marten and there - no one is so lovable as the man or woman whose soul way to our arms . afternoon nap , or if she were not too much engrossed in proof- not , one could never tell . At any rate there would be Marian . ' ments , the thought of his fruitless journeys in local trains appeal to our sympathy and pity , our love and our esteem goes approach of an Addison or Chesterfield , these would find their into the sweets of this world , renouncing Everything which is The little touch of what he expected to find at home is so at the end of the month , Mr. Main nothing to be a Catholic . would be simply vivisecting them . ' out of the Church , and took in that poor little ( great ) Curate was kept out of the fold by the author ; he was not worthy . I and he said . " Oh ! I am glad you think so . " A lady has assed by like a cold douche , the cross little baby , the generous , Do you remember the exquisite drawing of poor Mr. Main . Of course you know he had given up all which he called Lovableness can exist , with many faults , many weaknesses and therein lies the human beauty . worth anything . Read the little summary , he gave up Christ blamed me very much about Percy . " One loves Mr. Main very clearly , and rejoices that Percy in-law of a peer . When the absolutely correct , faultless person is stunned and One has only to turn to Percy and the finale of his entry months , and then , the firm had given him his conge . " Then rest thoughts . " You had better not analyse them , because it speak with them and wet , as Mr. Vincent McNabb says of our sweet . ' Lovableness is a quality of beauty , sweetness and gentleness . asonable , prudent , sensible young man , and the son- " And here was Mabel , delicious . A reasonably , but it must have grit and worth . An emasculated , weak " And here was Mabel , delicious . " She looked simply but it must have grit and worth . and therein lies the human beauty . An emasculated , weak sweetness and gentleness . ' And here was Mabel , delicious . ' . She She looked simply --- Page 10 --- see him , to give him Communion ; but old Father Scotland , Communion , to do honour to his patron ; he had made the of breath , and late . He knelt by the altar rails . He heart boy to tend the broad of young turkeys now rising , and to being both deaf and blind , shuffled into the sacristy . ' Chris : but impassable ; while as for the pool below , it had become a mother would have been ; she had died in giving him birth , house . Six or eight great . A at-topped stones carried the foot- for him . He had gone into Killorglin to the fair , bidding the dancing in the wind . ' Christopher came to wonder what his he river which crossed the road by a ford above Christopher's distance between running and walking , to reach chapel out which had set the father's heart heavily against the boy . topher had not courage to follow him , so walked his road home , highest in the valley . by the three lakes , whose streams bred running in and out to her for chat . In spite of himself , two uncomforted . He found the handful of breakfast finished : stones were covered , and what with the force of the current all his father scolded him , asking was not Sunday's Mass enough herd the cattle at dusk . Christopher followed the fowl into great tears rose up in his two eyes and plunged upon the frieze passenger over-stream , the carters driving through the shal- hammering in his throat from excitement and exertion , hoping that Father Scotland who was about the last prayers-might curlew , among the brown bogs , with the white bog cotton ow . But to-day , what with the wet July , the fording - Then there was no boy to have game with : the holding stood Christopher . by for him , would have been now within , in the house . he the haggard , his eyes on the distance , as sad eyes so often He had risen early to set off into Glenbeigh , to get Mass and den colour upon the story fields . She would have understood , would have kept a bit of breakfast Ave , it was lonely here , with the mist and sun and crying watching the fame of vapour sweep along the hills , birthday the feast of ' Christopher-but there had been valley , now lifting up with travelling sunburst , to strike sub- He went to a quicken springing from the stone fence , broke whirlpool , in which a horse might with difficulty keep his jacket , that always smell so of peat smoke . nothing to set it apart from all other days of the year . now dragging low with sharp flow of rain upon the His mouth shook faintly . his eyes were troubled : it was his will be . LITTLE herd stood in the haggard below the house . legs . A 247 --- Page 11 --- father , a man with a brown beard and a good face , the best face shut them in carefully . The two trotted down the bit of lane . he stones . The cold strength of the stream struck into him , but he stepped slow and steady from stone to stone , not looking alone the danger . He looked wistfully at the little lad ; he He didn't half like crossing , leaving the house and cattle , let behind , not a child's voice this time , but a man's . It would be his father . mayhap , angry - or maybe drunk itself , after them into the turf-roofed shelter within the yard . Christopher be was about the middle he heard his name cried again , from by the bank , where he had left the little boy ; it wasn't his breath about his neck , the two soft arms put about him . He slipped down . the fair . He turned round , startled . There was a man beyond , you get up on to my back , " he said . was . He reached the other side , knelt again , and the child felt a great love for him , the little lad who wanted to bring He felt the small body pressed against his own , the warm gathered up the bare legs , putting his foot upon the first of aside at all at the rush , or giving need to the great roar there great foam of water coming between the stones , sure enough : of the child : a strange shiver went through him . his mother the bog cotton . Suddenly he knew down : " Let Christopher started back , going carefully as at first : when the boy's face : he put his own mouth to the moist , sweet mouth out into the road . When they came to the ford there was a ting back home , it is late . ' Good-bye , " said the little lad . " Good-bye . " said he , and got up . now , " he said . up above - is it above the ford you mean ? You'll find it hard They left the little common , driving the turkeys before you'd carry me yourself ? " he'll not be passing the road again this evening ; it's likely Christopher knelt yet , so that his face was on a height with ' It's yourself will be coming to my own place , ' said the Thank you , Christopher , for carrying me ; let you kiss me for to cross . ' christopher . at yourself ? ' Aye , above the ford. My father's man carried me down ; sure I'll bring you to my own above , and she'll be yours too . ' " minding my father's cows , " said Chris- me again ? " It's my father's sheep I look after ; they're headstrong , which way will you take ? You were saying you stopped hild ; " it's great games we will have there nild ; " it's great games we will have there . ' ' Aye , " said Christopher doubtfully , " but there's a great topher mournfully . " They're rare contrary . What do you be force of water by the stones . When will you come play with 00-betimes , " said the little lad . " But it's time I was get- 00 betimes . " said the little lad . topher mournfully . I do be alone , " They're rare contrary . What do you be force of water by the stones . When will you come play with --- Page 12 --- THE Christmas Candle . land had drifted close up against the silk , and there was no tollow-eyed , with bandaged head and one arm hanging limply opening it , stopped down and peered narrowly around her with candle she had placed on the table , and thinking the light Terence himself standing on the threshold . Ghastly pale and mark of any football to be seen . And overhead one star was shining like a Christmas candle set in God's window . The cup fell with a crash from her still ' uplifted hand . ' He slowly opened his eyes and looked around him . He was here in comfort and safety . It was this last consideration night not her boy be in at this very moment , and she sitting his wants . Seeing his gaze fixed on the thin , blue fame of the drink before him , speaking fond , endearing words the while , That same star was shining down on Terence , where he lay With trembling limbs she went again to the door and . An icy chill of fear seemed to freeze all the blood in her troubled him , she pushed it further behind her to shield it from fallen some hours earlier . hat was more than she could bear . Then she knelt down beside him , the better to minister to hungered to see again . on his face . as to a child who must be reassured that his mother is near at his eyes , and taking up a cordial held it to his lips . She rose abruptly and , turning away from the hearth , saw own motherhood . as briefing beside an empty settle speaking to empty-air . She ran forward with a glad cry . the nights in the year , and I fancying you far away in out- There now , darling , just take a drop of this that you may in what was no longer recognisable as the snow which had in the midst of what unimaginable perils and hardships Vaternity had lend some of its sacredness to the joy of her get strength to eat . landish parts ! ' taste to bring , and she busied herself in setting meat and settle at the side of the hearth , while a strange , sweet awe had first Iain in her arms , and the joyful mystery of the Divine the aid of a lanthorn . The snow lying shroudlike over the at his side . there he stood with the same old smile , she had veins . For she knew it was Terence's warmth had visited her It was twenty years ago this very night since her little son that night . ningled with the suddenness of her joy . ' Holy Mary . Mother of God , pray for him now ! " He was in her arms , and she was leading him to the broad " To think of your coming home on this blessed night of all Terence avick , ' His the Blessed Mother herself has brought There was no sign of any presence beyond her own . She He had fallen back exhausted on the pillows she had made hand . hungered to see again . on his face . you ! ' --- Page 13 --- pages of the book , winning our sympathy , our admiration , and our love . shines forth in this delightful volume . ' and reveals him as one of Ireland's 'allads relating to Ireland ; Christmas Carols and Ballads : Old-world the hands of ' every Irish Catholic : it is well calculated to aid and foster the book contains . The price of the volume is is . Ed. ( Oostave ad. much more could easily be produced . Humour , perhaps , patriotic fire , deep The four books are creditably produced by the publisher , and any one of especially to Irish Saints ) , ' Iitanies " and novenas , " and has the his heart a feeling of gratitude for the blessings and the gifts that God has last lesson and goes to meet the " White Rose " of his heart " in the land tear's start to our eyes at the thought of Maure Mahory's unbroken dream s 2s. net ( postage 4d. extra ) . oems in the best style of a poet who has always devoted his gift of some to while devotion and reverence breathe in every line of the forty poems which devotion , and would prove an admirable Christmas gift . and a true ring about all his work that lends a charm to the simplest sketch and in the four books that have just been issued by Messrs . Whelan and Son , New Year . and the glamour of the beautiful festival that touches every where dreaming is no more and vivid living is eternal . " , Price 25 . net religious feeling . Now from his prolific men , and always there is a freshmen Ballads : Memorial Verses : Sacred Verses - Free translations from the Irish : The book may have its blemishes , but we forget them as we listen to the given to man . The book is handsomely bound in full cloth , and the price tory of poor ' Phil Flanagan in the " house among the bushes " or feel the rem would be a most suitable and reasonable present at Christmastide . by the publishers and the price is as . 6d. net. FUN O" THE FORGE is a toxic and messenger of mirth . " The stories or poem or story , and that shows how well the author knows and how ST. ANTHONY'S TREASURY ( published at the office of " St. are told by Ned McGrane . a serial and lavable blacksmith , in his forge in Literary notes . Annals , " 14 Temple Street , Dublin ) , contains a splendid collection of prayers countryside , ' and lovable indeed are the characters that stand out from the HEARTS OF GOLD is a volume of stories and sketches resident of the heart is portrayed without waste of words and in the simplest language , SONGS OF THE SACRED HEART is a beautiful little book of religious ( postage 4d. extra ) . 4d. extra ) . the world as a sample of true , clean , Irish wit . The price is 2s. net written out of the fullness of their hearts " love for Ireland is Brian O'Higgins , Gregory . ( The Talbot Press . ' Dublin ) ' The poetic genius of the author Literary Notes . Christmas spirit . Every single one of them deals with Christmas or the strongly he loves the people of whom he writes . GLEN-NA-MONA is a collection of vivid pen-pictures of life in an or sit in the shadows of the old school with the master who has taught his the Archbishop of Dublin . We should like to see this excellent manual in IRELAND : A song of Hope , AND OTHER POANS . In Pacific and Miscellaneous Poems . ' The work is excellently and attractively produce One of the most versatile of the younger school of writers who have Christian heart simply holds the reader in its tender embrace and leaves in Ballinagore , and everyone of them might be taken and proudly exhibited to the praise of God and of his Blessed Mother . ' Every feeling of the human and Miscellaneous Poems . ' The work is excel ! Ormond Quay , Dublin , we have abundant evidence of that versatility . sweetest and most gifted writers of song . ' The work contains Po the Archbishop of Dublin . We should like to see this e --- Page 14 --- grant many gifts and blessings to the writer of this heart-felt wish and guard He may whisper softly to Francis on Christmas morning at Mass how tenderly President I send my warmest wishes that the Child-God may bless in his own Plaus . All the more are we called upon to search with eyes of love for the we all remember him in our prayers and how we beg of Him to bless our happy Christmas ' - is sent from my heart to all the dear little ones I have met the Guild of Blessed Gabriel . Nally with many a prayer : foundest wish for you all is that , on Christmas morning , you may see in the this has come to be a special feature of our Guild , and I know from the Rules of the Guild . smile of the Christ-Child your reward and your share of thanks for kindness will be held . NCE more we approach the holy season of love and peace and good will . sweet was that beautiful garden wherein I have found so many boys . and that shown to the poor and lowly that He loves . were lighted in Europe , many a home will be ' desolate , many a chair will be Christmas , as has been the case ever , near since the horrible war fires embers' letters that is it very highly appreciated by under 18 years of age conducted by Francis . fellow-members of the Guild will prize , and for which they will repay listen Guild . Miss M.B. O'Neill sends a prose poem this month , and Our Lady of Sorrows , by practising the virtues of puritus , claritus , and here is an extract from it : " The old sweet wish - ' A holy . and by living lives worthy of him who is to be their model and guide . her in all her ways ! Our other songster sings a wish for Ireland that her even by readers of " The Cross " who are not members of the I . The Guild of Blessed Gabriel is a literary circle open to boys and girl . The Cross . Blessed Gabriel Circle for Young . LV. They will endearour to bring as many new members as they can into 11 . The members will be expected to spread devotion to Blessed Gabriel or Sir Boy's & Girls . Readers of che Guild of A Literary . the season of remembrance and kindliness and gladness . But this The Poet's III . They will at all times observe the conditions under which the competition corner . vacant , and many a young heart will sigh in vain for the coming of Se r and lonely and to give them all the comfort and cheer in our power . Mr. shown to the poor and lowly that He loves and I knew friend and guide with every priceless gifts that He alone can give . ' TIT They will at all times observe the conditions under which the tic circle of the Guild . For the Guild itself and for I fellow-members of the Guild will prize , and for which they --- Page 15 --- o' Maureen M'Nally , 49 . Templemore Street , Belfast . tie O'Connor , Bridie Dolan , Aden Hanly , Lily Dolan , Moll urley , Josephine M.Eneaney . May Lennard , Tom Lennard , P Blessed Gabriel Guild . so as to reach the office not later than by first post on December 14th . All I'Donnell . Nellie Glynn . Brigid Glynn , Bernadette O' Under command of Captain Ellis' Nally-Brian Killen , ' Milton Killeen . family ) and must be written on one side only of the paper . They must be sent Sarah Ruane . Mary Ellen Ruane . Irene Joyce . May Morris . Olive Monaghan , inder command of Captain Patrick Hamly-Emily. Raphael Hanty . Letter to Santa Claus " the prize is awarded to Maura Ridgeen , Koisin O'Leary , Naeva O'Leary , Dennot O Competitors will please remember the following rules : All competition Maureen Davis . Aggie Davis. Michael Dowling . Charlotte Mullens . May feating . Nora Black . Owen Dowling , Teddy Huck , Bessie Mannion , May emingham , Eileen Boylam . ' Nora M.Cabe , Seamus O'Sullivan rell . Brendan Cranry , Michael Cranny , Mary Callaghan , Jack Callaghan , tarding , Patrick M'Loughlin , Bernard M'Loughlin , Madge Michael Fitzgerald , John Fitzgerald . sellan . Fanny O'Reilly , Lorcan Gogan , Ellis Gogan , Bertie under command of Captain Maureen O'Sullivan-Alice M"Cabe , Annie ningham . Kitty Finlason , Alfred Finlazon , Mary Finlazon , Marcel White . Brendan White . Philamena Finlason , Gerard Finlason , Aggie essay on the question : " Is the Giving of Christmas Gifts lothora to be addressed : Francis , cjo . " The Cross , " St. Paul Iar Dowling . Joseph Joyce , Jack Benson , Annie Furry . Max Curley , " It has often been said that the surest road to happiness is that which we of the competitors . ' They must have attached to them the coupon which will on your competition paper , whether you send a letter or nearly disqualified for not giving full name ) . ravel when we make others happy , and no better proof of this can be found Indesirable ? " the prize is awarded to John P. Hendrick , Garvey , " Clare Hanly , Joe Mason , Eddie Hanly , ' Dick M. Hugh their competition papers ' asking to be admitted to ' member . 35 Sunset Place . St. Luke's , Cork . A special prize goes papers must be certified by some responsible person as being the unaided work rize goes to J. J. Murphy , Railway Street , Armagh ( whom Dodo Kelly . Kathleen Davis . ' Hugh Duffy . ' Morris Davis , ' Joseph Dowling . " Is the Giving of Christmas Gifts Undesirable ? " The Awards . January competitions . rip of the Guild . " 2 ) . Always put you name and addre for copies of " The Cross , " etc. , and all business letters Tom Joyce , Frank Joyce , J. P. Roughneen , Myles . O'Donnell Argus , Dublin . A large number of competitors were late this month and their letters could be found in this issue ( one coupon will be sufficient for all the members of a Yeroa . Mary Gallaker , Lily O'Donnell , Maire Noreen O' O'Callaghan . reila Monaghan , Nancy Duffy , Nellie M. Glade , Kathleen M. Orlando prize essay . Members under A handsome book prize will be given for the best short paper on " The New For the best Under command of Captain Nancy Joyce-Peggy M'Artle , Malachr love . Annie Murphy . should be sent to . important . not be dealt with . A handsome book prize will be given for the best drawing of a Christmas For the best he Manager . Vicformer Patty Mullens . Eileen O'Reilly , Eva O'Reilly , Ita Year and the Old . ' ) . All newcomers will release write a personal note to Francis , apart from Wheeler , Lynn Cottage , Mullingar . Westmeath . A special I. For Members over 12 and under 18 years of age . not . (3. ) Orders . 11 . For Members under 12 years of age . Cormue , Nora Bolton , Joseph Bolton , Teresa Bolton , Angela Finlazon , Maura Vitzerland , Sadie Fitzgerald , Eileen Duffy , Brian Duffy , Kathleen Fitzgerald , 12 . Tree . # Steve Dufts . Brian Duffy , Kathleen Fitzgerald , 20 . ( r ) . All newcom ra Bolton , Joseph Bolton , Teresa Bolton , Angela Finlaz --- Page 16 --- of the Society this year , owing to the increased cost of living , which affects brated on 4th November for those who large congregations attended the course . privilege which the Church enjoy There is a special strain on the funds . the Congregation in which he pre- ng in repair vestments and altar linen , children . At 7 p.m. Rev. Father Missa de Requie , with Communion the poor so much , and we are grateful Church during the day to avail face . C.P. , preached a panegoric with St. Mungo's , to which he whole-hearted sympathy and su admirable work in providing and keep - piece , from Vittoria , was rendered by Father-General of the Passionists , has November , in connection with the final ment and certain prayers on 27th for the welfare of the Mission he the " Te Deum " during Bened issued a letter to all the members of Mozart's De Profundis , which was re- Father Alban , C.P. ( Rector ) , pre Rev. M. Canon McNairney , Maguire , presided , and preached deeply attached , and every moving Rome . Most Rev. Father Silvius , C.P. . Louis gave a special service for concluded with a procession . the Altar Society on Sunday . 18th Nov. Pope , Solemn Requiem Mass was cele- have fallen in the war . Gascoligni's The members of the Society are doing peated at the evening devotion . During his life in Glasgow Mr. O to those who contributed towards the Rev. T. T. Canon Over . M.R. Rev. T.P. Canon O"Reilly , scribes Exposition of the Blessed Sacra- ance with the wish of His Holiness the continued throughout the day . Sunday , October 28th , and Very The Church was splendidly atten . Paul of the Cross , and the celet Cyril , C.P. , preached the : ence at St. Stephen's , Dalmui O.P. : Sub-deacon , Rev. Father Conference on Sunday , with November . the Sunday evenings of November , ins and deeply appreciating their on behalf of St. Patrick's Conf. on behalf of the St. Vincent de Paul The music of the Mass on All Souls ' the afternoon at 4 p.m. Rev. " numbers of the faithful visits selves of the Portiuncta Indy maintenance of the Society's beneficent the Most Blessed Sacrament , Blessed Sacrament and the sing Rev. M. Canon Hughes , M.R. Rev. Father Norbert , C.P. , preached Vincent dePaul Society , Rev. ) were assistants at the throne . Solemn High Mass . the celebs Charity Sermon' in aid of the C stages of the cause of Blessed Gabriel , which was Very Rev. Father Mgr. Canon T. Ritchie . W.G. . took place at Monaghan in Nov. sidered by the Sacred Congregation of of sermons on Purgatory which Rev. Archbishop officiated at Exposit the chair . The service concluded with kindly contributed to the funds of the a course of sermons on Purgatory , on Day was sung by the Brothers and cellus . C.P. : Master of Cerer After the High Mass His Gre at Anderson on Sunday , Nov Father Ignatius , C.P. , preached dur- Rev. Father M.Mahon , S. J. ; Re 9th. Mr. O'Hare had long as soon these services , the people fully Rev. Father Romuald. C.P. . Ver boys of St. Aloysius' College . Glasgow-St. Munzo's . The Golden Very Rev. Father Francis , C.P. , of St. Paul of the Cross were observed jubilee celebrations of the Canonization Passionist student , which will be con- Rev. Father Paschal , O.F.M. : Rev. Father Fidelis . C.P. preached Mount Argus - St. Paul's . Very ile of the community as membership C.P. : Deacon , " Rev. Father Rector , made an appeal on behalf of October 21st . ' His Grace Arch lulfilled many positions in the ind we are grateful to those who Highgate St. Joseph's . In accord- of Ex-Baillie' Patrick O'Hare . J. Mullin. M.R. ; and Rev. D. Rites upon that date . society on this occasion . Basilica of SS. John and Paul . with befitting solemnity on To aid the benevolent work . ing November . Deep sorrow is felt here at the which were well attended . were present . Chronicle . nificance . work . # ANNAIN S.000000 Passionist . 8th . --- Page 17 --- gratulations and good wishes of his Blessing to the venerable Passionist . Golden Jubilee of the religious profes- sion of Rev. Father Placid Wareing , progress . The fervent little congrega- riends were present and spent an en- C.P. , on 12th November , a telegram friends in Harborne . where he laboured that His Holiness the Pope sent his Father Bernardino for the souls of sol- The Rev. Father was the recipient of for many years prior to his appoint- School had an enjoyable afternoon , re- cently when they had a treat and musical entertainment . ' Mrs. Kemp , mond Hill , the children of St. Mary's ment as Vicar of St. Mary's , Carmar- was received from Rome announcing the generosity of Mrs. Kemp , Rich- kindly dispensed the good things pro- diers and sailors who have lost their Dav a Solemn Requiem was sung by tional privilege accorded them recently lives in the war . In the evening tion appreciate very much the addi- Mrs. McDonnell and Miss Flattery , friends , including readers of " The numerous messages conveying the con- Cross . " who have so much appreciated and inst . About 100 members and ford mission , which is in charge of the then . The Rev. Father , in appropriate assisted by the teachers . Miss Nolan , Passionist Fathers , is making good his beautiful articles in our magazine . Town Council , besides representing The Children of Mary's Sodality held occasion of the celebration of the joyable evening . The Social was a Social in St. Paul's Hall on Friday . arranged by Rev. Father Germain , Father Thomas preached on the Doc- the recipient of a presentation from his of having evening devotion . Glasgow Parish Council . Glasgow Rev. Father Finbar , C.P. , has been On the Sunday following All Souls ' North Monaghan in Parliament . Garmarthen - St. Mary's . Amman- trine of Purgatory . Broadway-St. Saviour's . On the ramonization of Blessed Gabriel and the Harborne St. Mary's . Thanks to THE C. Ad multos annos . We have received as . 6d. from E vided . c.p. 60 . #