THE TASTE. A TEMPERANCE TALE. BY THE AUTHOR OF "THE FATHER'S MESSAGE." "Say what is taste, but the internal pow'rs, Hitchin: DR. AKENSIDE. BIBLIOTHED AUC 1881 PATERNOSTER AND HALES, MACHINE ORNA 1880. PREFACE. We are invited to write a Preface. With an "Introduction " we scarcely perceive the necessity, our only desire being to express sympathy with the cause of Temperance. We would willingly ring out the charming bells could we hope to follow by a piece of musical composition. We trust to gentle treatment by the critics of the day, and encouragement from the supporters of Abstinence. DECEMBER, 1880. INTRODUCTION. EMPERANCE is steadily on the increase. Supported by devoted, earnestly active, friends to the cause, the advantages of sobriety are becoming more obvious to all classes. Though some may not choose to benefit by the evidence of facts, which admonish them, that vapour is not substance; the fume which clouds the brain has neither liquid nor solid capability for strengthening the body: it is an effervescence that leaves no trace, save the poison which generates maladies; which poison is not inclined to be dislodged; it has a will of its own; a resolution to work its way within the arteries: to clog the free passage of the blood through the heart; frequently causing sudden death; sending the debauched, degraded soul into the presence of its Maker, to hear the awful words-Depart, I know you not. Look through Holy Writ, "No drunkard shall inherit eternal life." "No drunkard shall enter into the Kingdom of Heaven." Study ancient B |