p457 DEAR BRETHREN, - I see nothing at all to hinder brethren, who find themselves together for bathing, breaking bread together, provided it be done in a spirit of unity with the meetings they belong to. In the case of a resident Christian walking uprightly in the truth, calling "on the name of the Lord out of a pure heart," he has the same title as if he desired to walk permanently with brethren. There is nothing to hinder; but it would be happy (specially if those at the bathing-place were young brethren) that the matter be communicated to the meeting they belong to, that the thing may be done seriously and with christian care. In the former case it is to preserve confidence and unity, in the latter for right christian care. The true character of the gathering is preserved, that is, two or three gathered together in Christ's name; but it is important that it should be done in unity with those already gathered. Full liberty, but liberty in hearty unity, is what we have to seek, and subjection of individual will to the action of the Holy Ghost in the whole.

As to your second question,* it is practically answered. Provided it be done in a spirit of unity, I see nothing to hinder. It might be on purpose to act against the assembly when the single absent brother did not walk well: this would be clearly wrong; and what I say always supposes that all are walking godlily and in grace.
{*If there be a resident brother or sister in fellowship at the place, but no breaking of bread, can the Table be spread at any time that another brother in fellowship may happen to be there for a limited time, and then discontinued until another similar occasion?'}

As to the third question,* it is always desirable that they should do it in unity with those united in the place nearest, or whence they come. No one can hinder their doing it, but it is not done happily or godlily when it is not done in communion with those with whom they are already in communion.
{*In the case of several in fellowship removing to another town where there is no gathering; or where several may be converted and brought out of the denominations; should they begin breaking bread at once, and of their own accord, or announce their intention and seek the fellowship of the surrounding gatherings before doing so?'}

As to the last* the grace of God and the application of the word to the conscience can alone hinder the exercise of self-will.
{*If the practice of beginning to break bread in their case is right according to your judgment, in what way would scripture enable us to guard against the danger of its being accompanied with self-will, etc.?}

Berne, July 30th.

[52310E]