The Free Methodist church was a child of necessity. Its founders were Methodists who were denied a church home because they upheld what they believed to be the true principles of Methodism. Fifty years have now passed since the stirring events took place which resulted in a church organization. Nearly all who participated in the conflicts of those times have gone to their reward and a new and younger class has taken charge of the affairs of the church. The question being asked on all sides is, Will this new element perpetuate the original simplicity and power of our fathers and maintain the distinctive issues which brought us into existence, or will there be a departure here and there at crucial points? Thus far no defection has taken place and the spiritual life of the church is apparently strong and vigorous.

The time has now come when the rank and file, especially of the younger members, need to be informed with respect to our origin and development, and at present there is a great demand for a short, concise history of the church.

When the Teacher Training Board decided to include such a history in the course of study for Sunday-school workers and cast about for the proper person to produce it, choice was immediately made of the man whose name appears as the author of this book. He has been a lifelong member of the church and for years has been a prominent minister of the gospel within her pale. He has been a member of several general conferences and for a number of years has been a member of the General Missionary Board, He is also a writer of acknowledged strength and clearness. He was therefore eminently fitted for the task laid before him.

I have read the manuscript with great care and wish to note the following points: 1. The book is well written. 2. Its statements can be relied upon. The author has taken great pains to verify his assertions and they are believed to be correct. 3. Though the work is brief and concise, yet it is comprehensive. The surprise is that so much ground is covered in so limited a space.

This book should immediately find a place in every Free Methodist home and should be read by every member of the Free Methodist church. I believe it will have an extensive circulation and that it will accomplish much good.