23 whenever he is done with them We dare not say one word against him. He is here to consult with us as a man of experience." The motion was taken and passed with Mr McKay and one elder dissenting. Mr. McDonald then addressed the Synod very briefly and in a dignified and Christian spirit. A very heavy assault had been made on him (he said) but he was ready to clear his character from first to last He had done much for preserving men to the church of their fathers, laboured diligently for many years and would continue to do so while he lived. Mr. McKay protested in strong terms against what seemed to him insinuations levelled at his character by Mr. McDonald . We are acting in a most irregular manner, entering on a course which if pursued will bring the curse of God on our church. He sat down amid cries of order." [Later a small committee was appointed to consult with McKay and hear his "reasons." This committee did not report until the closing minutes of the last day of meeting and then recommended "to urge their sympathy with Mr McKay and the Synod to be more cautious in the future". McKay's "reasons" were not shared with the Synod ] (Presbyterian Witness)..Inly 2 & July 9,1859, pp.106 & 109)