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CHURCHES 1830 - 1900 Chapter i i Three Methodist circuit-riders - Cope, Pringle and Law - were the first to preach the gospel in the Paris district. Speaking of their activities, and of those of their successors, "History of Brant County, i884" relates that: The Methodist itinerant preachers visited the place [Paris Plains] every four weeks, although it was not on the Paris circuit. Thither rode, by difficult and dangerous paths, the Methodist preacher from the Long Point on Lake Erie to Brantford, to Paris, to Blen- heim, to Galt and to Copetown. The untiring preacher of the Word was a striking picture of self- help as well as of Christian piety. Under favorable circumstances the round trip from station to station might be got through in four weeks. But this could, indeed, seldom be calculated on. In spring and fall the numerous swamps were almost impassable to the deftest horsemen, the weary horse sinking knee deep at every step. In summer the swarms of mosquitoes were enough to madden steed and rider. In winter the snow rampart wreathed with ghastly drifts, blocked the way impenetrably; and the tired missionary and his horse were glad to accept the common but generously shared food and shelter of the nearest squatter's shanty. Our friend, Mr. Conklin, formerly of The Plains, has described to us his first view of one of the West Canadian missionaries. Bestriding a strong, serviceable steed, the good man rode up to Maus' School House. Across his saddle hung his canvass saddle- bags, containing his Bible, hymn book, and a scanty stock of bread and biscuits. 131 :~