AN IMPORTANT DUTY.
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AN IMPORTANT DUTY.


There is nothing, perhaps, to which a
man will more pertinaciously adhere than
to his opinions, if they have been formed
by serious and long reflection, or inculcated
by education, in his peculiar walk of life.
Many, in defence, as they conceive, Of the
true system of theology, correct political
principles, or any other subject, will con-
tend as though truth depended upon the
strength of the foundation which they
essay to establish; and high words, and,
not unfrequently violence, have taken the
place Of fair and legitimate elucidation. .Ar-
gument is not to be avoided, but we prefer
example, experience; and especially in the
cause Of temperance, in the behalf Of which,
as lovers Of humanity and virtue, we are SO
pleasantly and delightfully."- engaged. It will
not suffice that the estimable citizen should
merely desire the success Of Total Abst-
nence, and applaud the movements Of those
prominent in the reformation-to frown up
on drunkenness and the agents who pro-
,duce it, and even, by his presence, counte-
nance the work Of mercy, as it is, in part,
performed in a public assembly-but he
should attach himself to one Of the many
associations in our midst, take a deep in
terest in its deliberations, and not rest sat
isfed until his neighbors shall, with him,
enjoy similar privilege. By thus uniting
himself with those who will, in truth, regard
him as brother, he will not only be
strengthened, but give additional aperna-
nency TO the institution, and encouragement
to the membership TO remain (" one and in
divisible." Christians would find a field for
labor--the philanthropist source Of heart
felt joy, and the young man a place in
which to spend a pleasant night. e.


Apart from personal gratif"ation, look to
the immense good easy accomplish
ment-the great moral influence which
would be exerted, not only in turning the
poor inebriate from the way of folly and
Of moral death, but in the prevention Of i'm
pending degradation of all who taste and
"look upon theywine when it is red, and
yieldeth its color in the cup" Shall we
appeal in vain? Will those who are already
with us in heart deny the fellowship OF
themscluess Can they still refuse to sane
ton, in our associations, by their presence,
the measures which Teetotalers rightly en-
deavor to enforce There is no victory 70
those who avoid the battle; and it is unfair,
without lifting an arm or voice, to claim
the honor of the civic wreath Where SO
much happiness, in the mild, suasive tones
of peace can be conferred, inertness is a
crime; and they who, by activity and zeal,
give to the world evidence undoubted Of
their love for Temperance, not only confer
blessing upon those within the tempter's
power, but enjoy within themselves the
proud consciousness of having contributed
their golden grain to the sum Of human hap
piness. &.lg /tyllf K.