Page:History of Knox Church Dunedin.djvu/149

Rh Mr Donald M. Stuart, after a long and painful illness, was called away on Saturday, January 12, 1889—forty days after his father's return to Dunedin. The greatest sympathy was felt for Dr Stuart in the sad bereavement which thus befell him, and the deep sorrow which filled the manse was shared by all the congregation, whose prayers were heartily offered up for the bereaved father, widow, and children. The following is the resolution of the office-bearers on this sad occasion:—"It was unanimously resolved that this Court, as representing the office-bearers of Knox Church, desire to convey to Dr Stuart their heartfelt sympathy with him on the occasion of the sore bereavement to which he has been subjected in the Providence of God by the lamented death of his son, the late Mr Donald M. Stuart; and they commend their beloved pastor to God and to the word of His grace—the alone true source of consolation and comfort in the hour of deepest trial."

The writer ventures to conclude the story of Dr Stuart's furlough with the followmg article, which appeared in the leading column of the Otago Daily Times of December 6, 1888. It may very properly be regarded as truly expressing the sentiments of the general community throughout Otago, irrespective of nationality or creed:—"The affectionate solicitude demonstrated by the officers, members, and adherents of Knox Church at the return of the Rev. Dr Stuart, and the touching remarks which he delivered in response to the address presented at the devotional service on Tuesday evening, are among the most pleasing incidents which have happened in Dunedin for some time. Dr Stuart is so entirely identified with this city, and we might say with Otago, and so well known among all classes, that it seems unnecessary to refer to the eminent qualities which have given him a place second to none in public estimation, and have made his name veritably a household word. High principle, a devoted sense of duty, kindliness of manner, which is but the expression of most perfect charity, utter and complete unselfishness have distinguished Dr Stuart among his fellows; and it is not surprising that the opportunity has been taken by those under his pastoral care, and more immediately connected with his work, to pay him the tribute of honour and regard which, to the gratification of the whole community, he has received. It is beyond question true, as set forth in the address, that 'the citizens of Dunedin and the settlers throughout Otago generally