CHARLES BRIGHT

Otago Daily Times, Issue 21404, 4 August 1931, Page 4

CHARLES BRIGHT

TO THE EDITOR. g IB In reply to “Profanutn Vulgus" and for the information of your readers, I think Charles Bright, Freethought lecturer came from America in the eighties, about the time of the formation of the Dunedin Freethought Association and the building of the Lyceum in Dowling street. I attended one of his lectures in that building. I have no recollection of any hindrances to his Freethought utterances, Mr M. W. Green, pastor of the Tabernacle, King street {now the Church of Christ, St. Andrew street) made, or accepted, a challenge to debate with Mr Bright on certain points of doctrine and faith. The Garrison Hall was filled for several nights with interested and orderly audiences, which witnessed the dramatic conclusion, when Mr Green, with characteristic calmness, reviewed the matters dealt with in the debate and appealed to Mr Bright to admit his failure to support his assertions. Mr Green quietly stood awaiting an answer from Mr Bright, who remained seated in his chair with his head in his hands, declining to reply. Exit MiBright. The debate was published in pamphlet form.—l am, etc., Mornington, August 1. E. Rae.