Page:Distinguished Churchmen.djvu/227

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THE REV. WILSON CARLILE 191

in such cordial terms is a matter of great thank fulness to the Committee of the Church Army. On their release from prison, as I have pointed out, we seek to put those who need it into situa tions, and to extend to them, until suitable places can be found, the comforts of our Labour Homes."

Of gratitude on the part of the rescued ones Mr Carlile adduced overwhelming proof. Out of hundreds of cases, we must find space for two.

An ex-convict writes :

" The kindness I received from everyone connected with the C.A. will live in my memory as long as life itself. I often think what a godsend such a Society as yours is, and how it is ready to heartily welcome and help to a fresh start in life those who have fallen just as low as it is possible for a man or woman to fall in this life. Had it not been for the C.A. I should not have been where I am to-day. I have got my chance; God help me to make good use of it."

Here is another instance of the moral effect on the prisoner of kindness shown to those dependent on him :

" The chaplain of prison asked C.A. to inquire into circum stances of the wife, whose husband was serving a term in prison. Matron of Labour Home called upon the woman, found her very respectable one child three years old and baby three weeks old woman herself been very ill, as well as the baby gave her a little temporary assistance. Shortly afterwards baby died. C.A. helped to pay cost of funeral, and matron also obtained a grant from insurance company, assisted with clothing, and to get work when strong enough to do it. Received letter from husband saying that, when released, he meant to stick to work, to show how grateful he was for help given to wife during his absence."

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