The San Francisco call., 1896-01-12

day, has aroused the indignation of his
old-time opponents, and a church in
vestigation will doubtless be the outcome.
DR.. Brown made many enemies because
of his attacks on Professor Heron, and
later, in ousting Deacon Strauss from the
church.
These enemies have been silent during
the scandal in the past. But now that DIR.
Brown seems determined to act as their
spiritual guide they are preparing to take
some steps looking to an investigation.
There is large body in the congrega-
ton which asserts that DR.. Brown volun-
tarily made the blackmailing worldly
matter when he took il to the courts. If
he had laid Mrs. Davidson's attempt at ex-
tortlon before the officers of his church.
and had demanded advice and counsel
from them instead of paying the money,
the public would have had no concern in
the matter.
But these church mem bers say that it
was Dr. Brown who challenged this fierce
light OF publicity, and since it has come
they do not shirk a thorough inyestipa-
ton.
Outside the officers of the church there
is strong body of church members hold
ing these views. They say they feel that
every one In the congregation is affected by
the slurs cast on the pastor, and that the
only remedy is to wipe away the insinua-
tlons, or else, II the slurs are proved to be
true, to compel change in the pastorate.
With these objects in view quiet but de-
termlned steps are being taken to hold an
investigation. The members of the flock
who ask for thorough sitting of the
charges against DIR. Brown are making
arrangements to hold a preliminary meet
ing to discuss the best course to be taken.
1T not intended n hold io1
court of inquiry or to summon the pastor
to tribunal. The church members who
want an investigation will consider, in as
Christian and friendly spirit as possible
to the pastor, how they can best get at
the truth of the Overman and Stockton
stories.
The mere fact of this investigation being
planned implies feeling which is not one
of entire confidence in Dr. Brown
A proof OF this feeling was given last
Wednesday at the prayer-meeting held at
the church. 1t had not been expected that
the pastor would be present, and when it
was discovered that he was, number of
ladies and one or two gentlemen withdrew
from the meeting.
w. j. Dutton, q trustee of the First Con-
gregational Church, said:
Il certainly believe that there should be
an investigation of these charges of mis-
conduct against DR.. Brown. If the investi-
E"e4oh - noI ihaue uy tHe CoisIeSdllon
think DIR. Brown owes it to himself, his
family and the church to demand it.
These charges against the pastor are of
a very serious nature. He says he will
come forward at the proper time and ex-
plain his position to the satisfaction of all
concerned. earnestly hope he can.
Until the doctor has been heard will not
pass upon his guilt or innocence.
"Dr. Brown occupies a high place as
pastor OF the First Congregational Church,
and | should be loath TO believe him
guilty OF all these charges until his guilt
has been established beyond ali doubt be-
fore the proper tribunal of the church."
And In case his guilt is established.
Mr.. Dutton?"
Then the First Congregational Church
will dispense with DR.. Browns services as as