THE CONGREGATIONALISTS IN GEORGIA.

The Congregationalists are considering the question practically, but
with a division of sentiment. Some stand firmly against all race
distinctions, while others are disposed to compromise on a plan that
keeps the two organizations in Georgia still separated by the
color-line, but that provides for the appointment of a few delegates from
each, to form a new body that shall have charge of the interests of the
denomination and be represented in the National Council.

We are not careful to criticise the _details_ of this plan, nor are we
anxious to secure any particular modification of them. The cardinal fact
is that the plan itself keeps the two bodies in Georgia apart for no
other assigned or assignable reason than race prejudice; for who
supposes for a moment that if these bodies were both white there would
be this elaborate plan devised to touch each other with the tips of the
fingers, instead of giving at once the whole hand-grasp of Christian
fellowship? And so long as this plan makes or retains the line of caste
distinction or practically delays or evades its rejection, it is a
compromise that should not be endorsed. But already the old pleas for
compromise are urged in its behalf:

1. It is said that this is a first step towards the ultimate--a bridge
to facilitate a future coming together. But a bridge is not possible,
nor if possible, necessary. There is no doubt that since the New
Testament was written there have been great improvements in bridge
building, both mechanical and theological; but between equal manhood on
one side and race prejudice on the other, "there is a great gulf fixed,"