MR. BRAMWELL BOOTH.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXXIII, Issue 3628, 14 September 1912, Page 10

MR. BRAMWELL BOOTH.

A PERSONA!, SKETCH. The new leader of the Salvation Army was generally accepted v-: Unnatural successor to hi? f at air. lie has arrived at that position rite: years of strenuous activity. H-s y-ung manhood was begun as a Salvatl i.rsf. and he has remained one in mu d ai heart ever since.

Born in ISod, at Halifax (Eng.), while his father was a minister of the Methodist New Connexion, the new leader did not enjoy robust health as a hoy. Before entering manhood he spent some months in Scotland for the benefit of his health, until eventually he grew out of his early weaknesses. No greater joy was experienced by both his parents —but especially by his mother —when she knew he had abandoned the thought of other callings for that of the Christian workc.l. The dicision proved no light or easy matter for the young man, for he had unmistakable leanings for a medical career. Having made his choice. Mr Booth threw himself into the Army’s work with all a young man’s enthusiasm, and became his father's chief lieutenant in both outdoor and indoor work. Behind the scenes he was initiated into a severe office routine, and learned those business habits and methods which have since proved of such worth to the Army. As the organisation grew, his work and responsibility increased, until by the very fitness" of things Ire became the chief of the staff whilst the General travelled abroad, directing and strengthening the Army work, his son sat at his London desk doing work which one publicist- has declared would ho worth £4OOO a year to a business corporation.

But the business side reveals only one aspect of tin l new General. Ho is keenly sympathetic and brotherly to his staff and officers generally. The literary side of the Army has reoM.-ct Ills special care, and he is a frequent contributor to its publications. His home life is ideal. Marriage brougm him a .partner who had herself in Paris when the French'people were much excited concerning the zealous methods of the Army. This was Captain Eloi-onee Soper, tho daughter of an English physician.. Mrs Booth is «t the head of the women’s social work in Great Britain.