is well
known that the genius and eloquence of this popular clergyman, during his
ministry in Glasgow, attracted immense crowds to his church, and the
feeling of disappointment when a stranger entered the pulpit was but too
visible for anyone to mistake it.
On one occasion the Rev. Dr. Islay
having made an exchange with Dr. Chalmers, was, on entering the pulpit, so
struck, annoyed, and irritated with the reluctant advance of the
assembling auditory, and the quick retreat of many from the pews, that he
stood up, and addressing the congregation, said:
"We will not begin the public
worship of God till the chaff blows off."
We need not say that these words had
the desired effect, and that the audience became stationary under this
severe rebuke.
