Page:Fifty years hence, or, What may be in 1943 - a prophecy supposed to be based on scientific deductions by an improved graphical method (IA fiftyyearshenceo00grim).pdf/77

 and more reasons for not committing it; so that imprisonment is not so common as formerly, and execution is far more rare. Asphyxiation by carbonic acid gas is the kindly and unrevolting method chosen.

Trades unions flourish, but their basis is most praiseworthy. The cardinal quality which every member must possess is competence in his trade. No one is admitted to membership in any "degree" of the guild, unless he has been property instructed and proved capable and competent to do what is called for by that degree of advancement in his craft; and those of the highest proficiency receive pay according to the value of their services. Thus there is confidence in and respect for the trade organizations; and their members have some inducement to excel in their chosen crafts.

In religion, there has been a fusion of the various sects into a vast Church in which Charity in its broadest sense is the leading principle, and the golden rule inscribed upon the mental tablets of all good people. A man's religion is deemed as of his inmost private life; as bearing upon his confidential personal relations with his God, and no more to be inquired into nor dis-